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Kent Golfing News 2008
NEWS FROM
AROUND THE COUNTY
Co-ordinated by Fred Winter
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| Although Fred Winter has retired from the KCGU Committee he still acts as the County's news hound. Items of news that you would like to have appear on the County website should be forwarded directly to Fred using the form below. |
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NEWS HEADLINES |
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England Coaching Groups
Kent have a record number of players involved in England coaching this winter
England Squad
Matt Haines & Tom Sherreard
England A Squad
Jason Barnes
England Under 18 Squad
Jon Bell
England Under 16 Squad
Liam Harper
England S E Regional Junior Coaching
Liam Harper, |Mark Collins, Patrick Horting, Casey Rossiter-Legg
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England Call UP
Chris Reynold and Dave Jessup have been called into the England Seniors Team for the forthcoming Home Internationals
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Kent Under 13 v Sussex & Surrey
North Downs Gold Club
A good match with what is I believe the new format in this age group. In the morning we got off to a steady start and at the end of the morning, after some scirmishes, gained some points in all but one match.
Leading by 1 point after the morning session Surrey we knew would come back strongly, we tried to compensate for this by not giving them any extra chances with their better players. We were in the end thwarted by some dazzleing play at this level which can only bode well for the future not only of Kent but National sides also.
We fielded 6 new bloods who all realised that this was a big step up from what they had experienced before, hopefully they can take this forward in their careers. Good efforts by Albert, George, Mathew S, Mathew G, David & Sam . Our Captain Jake Spearpoint led the side well as would be expected of the' old timer 'he is, wth a maximum score, Sean Baker 7/ 8 with the new boys Britton 7/8. Ghillie 6/8 Oake 6/8 a very rounded performance with which to end the seaon.
I trust that the two sides I have privelige to be involved with continue to expand their playing ability & become better all round young people as a result.
Thank you to both teams
Ian Betts
u13s/u14s Manager |
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Kent U16’s v Surrey v Sussex Triangular Match
Wrotham Heath Golf Club
On Wednesday 27th August 2008
Kent 38pts
Sussex 35pts
Surrey 17pts
This annual fixture has proven to be a great battle between the up and coming lads from the three counties. They were playing once again for the John & Wendy Wilson Trophy, which was donated some six years ago. Liam Harper (captain) collected the trophy on behalf of the county at the end of the meal.
Wrotham Heath Golf club provided an excellent venue; the course was in very good condition, with even paced, true greens. The weather was overcast and the wind played its part with any ball that was struck with any real elevation.
After the morning foursomes Kent took a 5 point lead over Sussex and a 10 point lead over Surrey. This was a strong position to be in but there were plenty of points available in the afternoon singles, so we were certainly not complacent. Maximum points went to the pairings of Liam Harper/Jay Kelly, Alfie Plant /Freddie Price & Alex Dixon/ Jack Colegate. The pairing of Patrick Horsting & Max Orrin were in a very strong position until the last green when a possible 3 points were begging; however, they suffered a rare 3 putt to lose one match and half the other. The other pairing of Nick Buckland and new player for Kent, Jamie Guppy picked up a valuable 2 points off Surrey.
In the afternoon singles the first two Kent players, Liam Harper & Alfie Plant, continued where they left off in the morning and gained maximum points. This was a true captain’s innings from Liam who has just heard of his selection to the England U16’s squad for next season – great news. All of the other players contributed to the points tally in the afternoon, except for Freddie Price. Freddie was up against very strong and older players from the other counties but worked hard to try and keep in touch. The two single points from Jack Colegate, as the last player, proved to be invaluable to Kent’s score for winning the match. Jack lost a ball on the 8th and was in the doldrums for a few holes mid round. He managed to get things back and with a spring in his heels on playing the 16th you could see his confidence was regained. Jack won his age group in the Regional Finals of the Faldo Series, at Walton Heath, recently and flies out to Brazil next month. We wish him every success.
The captains from the three counties, Ben Wheeler (Surrey), Brad Turner (Sussex) & Liam Harper made brief but appropriate speeches thanking all those who been part of organising the day. Wrotham Heath Golf Club was congratulated on providing and ideal venue.
Finally, it was a great match and it always is when Kent are winners but the match was played in very good spirit and we look forward to the county of Sussex organising next year’s event.
Paul Cannons (Kent Boy’s Team Manager) |
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KENT V HAMPSHIRE
Typically seasonal weather of driving rain and gale force winds forced a delay to the start of this league match at the seaside.
With Surrey already crowned League Champions, both teams were playing for pride and possible 2nd place. The morning foursomes saw some keenly contested matches with youngsters Liam Harper and Michael Saunders maintaining their hugely impressive record of winning each of their matches for the 1st team this year. Disappointingly, it was the top pairing of Burns and Barnes who suffered the only defeat of the morning, although Macklen and Jessup were just pipped on the 18th green losing half a point, which was to prove to be vital in the overall context of the match.
Needing to win only 4 matches in the afternoon Liam Burns led the team out, gaining a half against England junior international Darren Wright, but this was followed by a collapse as we lost the next four successive matches, making overall victory impossible.
Macklen and Harper steadied the ship with wins and so a halved match was still possible as the team looked to the normally steady and solid Dave Jessup to bring us home.
In a closely fought match Jessup matched his 6' 8" opponent in every department (except for height) making a brilliant birdie 2 at the tough 16th to go one up. The 17th was halved and so things were looking promising as the players stood on the 18th.
Unfortunately, the ever reliable Jessup's drive found the bushes, prompting his opponent to opt for safety hitting a medium iron into the centre of the fairway. Although found, Jessup's ball was deemed unplayable (twice) and he was now playing four onto the green. However, when his approach shot hit a greenside sprinkler head and bounced twenty yards backwards it was becoming clear that things were not going our way.
A sloppy approach shot by the Hampshire player was followed by three putts, but his five was still sufficient to win the hole and the match.
This match was our last of the season and resulted in our second defeat. The circumstances were extremely disappointing, but the weekend was enjoyable with the match being played in good spirits and a very convivial atmosphere
Thanks as ever to the President and Mrs Burton and to Vice President Wally Rodgers for their support, and we all wish Hampshire good luck as they represent the South East in the County finals in September..
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KENT BOYS WIN IN STYLE
Kent Boys did the double yesterday at Reigate Hill Golf Club by beating both Sussex and Surrey boys teams in emphatic style.
Full report to be attached soon - including Dan Brown's rare bird achievement........
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English Golf Union Junior Club Championship
With the weather dominating the English Junior championships the team from tried there hardest in torrential rain and gale force winds and did the county and the club proud. For those teams that went out in the morning it was such a contrasted with no rain and little wind, that is the luck of the draw.
The team all played their part, but there is no room for error when your handicaps are so low, 1, 3 and 4. The score generally did not reflect the fine golf played and dropped shots were difficult to get back.
Kent finished eleventh out of thirty counties, first out of all the scratch teams, the winner’s handicaps 11, 19, 29 Gloucestershire.
The team of Alfie Plant, Jack Bado, and Greg Snow can hold their heads high and be proud of how they conducted themselves on the course and off, and were an example to other counties.
WELL DONE THE LADS FROM SHOOTERS HILL GOLF CLUB
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Results
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KENT V SURREY
WIN FOR KENT
RESULTS AND REPORT TO FOLLOW
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MATT HAINES TO PLAY FOR GB & I
Following on his successes with England in the European Team Championships Matt Haines has been selected to represent Great Britian and Ireland in the St Andrews Trophy against the Continent of Europe at Kingsbarn in late August.
Matt, from Rochester & Cobham, and a former pupil of The Howard School, has also been selected to represent England in the Home Internationals at Muirfield in September.
It will be a very busy few weeks for Matt as he will also be off to America to Merion Golf Club for a special training session with the other Walker cup hopefulls ready for next years clash.
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KENT SENIORS WIN SE FOURSOMES
Report to follow
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KENT COLTS V SURREY
Kent Colt's match away to Surrey was played at Betchworth Park which proved to be an excellent venue.
The match proved to be one of widely varing emotions.
After 9 holes in the morning foursomes Surrey were leading in all matches being a combined 14 holes ahead. At this stage it was difficult to see any potential Kent success. However, great fight backs by Michael Saunders/ Liam Harper and Rudi I'Anson/ Michael Hamilton gave Kent two wins both on the 18th Green.
In the afternoon singles it was Kent that raced ahead and after 9 holes Kent appeared to be in control of the match.Good wins out in the country were achieved by Michael Saunders, Kevin O'Connell and Michael Hamilton.
However, it was then Surrey's turn to have a fight back and start to claw back into the match. A very tense encounter it turned out to be with 5 matches going down the last hole with Surrey winning 4 points from these matches.
The final result was a draw which, although mid morning seemed to be an unlikely outcome, was a disappointment to a very young Kent team. Good experience but a painful one.
Kent thanked Surrey for an excellent match played in a friendly and competitive spirit and expressed their disappointment that this was the last Colt's match between the counties as Surrey had decided to leave the Colts league with effect from 2009.
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KENT JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS
PRINCES GOLF CLUB
Shooters Hill golf club Junior Golfer Alfie Plant rules the waves.On July the 24th Alfie played in the Royal Cinque ports Junior open , against 60 players from the county and came out on top when he birdied the last hole from 20 foot and ended with a 73 two over par, he played the back 9 the hardest back 9 on the south coast one under par and beat last years Kent order of merit winner and scratch golfer Charlie Wilson who was 2 over on count back.
Then on July 25th it was on to Princes golf club in sandwich for the Kent county junior championshipsa 36 hole championship, which had 70 of the county's best young golfers entered.After 18 holes Alfie had shot a 73 one over par and was tied first place with 4 other players, after lunch Alfie started of well and was level par for the first 9 holes, dropped a shot on the 10th then birdied the 11th dropped a shot on 12th, birdird 13th and then had pars all the way to the 17th, on the 18th tee Alfie who was getting very tired, he knew he was in with a chance and hit a 323 yard drive down the last, which left him 100 yards to the pin, he hit his second shot to within 15 foot and sunk the third for a birdie 3 and finished 1 under par 71 for 18 holes and level par for 36 holes, he won by two shots.
Alfie Plant won the Kent county junior championships cup, the Kent county golf union handicap cup with 6 under par, and also the under 16 county cup.
Past winners of these cups are Tom Sherreard this years open qualifier who made this years cut and P.G.A player Ben Barham.
Shooters Hill team, Greg Snow, Jack Bado and Alfie Plant also won team event, and will go on and represent Kent in the English Junior champion club tournament on 9th & 10th of August at Harewood golf club. |
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Results to follow |
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Jon Bell WINS South East Boys Championships
Michael Saunders gets 3rd place
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South East Qualyfier
Sheringham
Kent arrived at this remote, picturesque, Norfolk course (par 70) at full strength. Fielding a ‘6-man’ team with a combined handicap of plus 16 we were, on paper, the strongest side.
However, in an event where plus 2 handicaps were regarded as common place, it was clear from the outset that the competition was going to be fierce, with Hampshire, Essex, Sussex and the ever consistent Surrey featuring as our main rivals.
In unseasonally wet conditions the morning got off to a fine start for Kent. With a combined score of 422 (just 2 over par) the consistent scores reflected the game plan set for the day. Indeed, surprisingly it was Matt Haines (+4) who carded the highest team score of 72 with two players, Tom Sherreard and Jason Barnes, recording below par figures of 68 and 69.
However, an equally impressive team performance by Hampshire of 420 (level par) meant that at the halfway stage we were only in second place. Hampshire’s experienced Martin Young (former England Mid Age Champion) had recorded a fine 67 in the morning to take the individual lead, whilst England Elite Squad member Sam Hutsby (+5) had matched his England colleague Matt Haines with a 72.
As the rain eased in the afternoon it was replaced with a blustery wind making conditions even more testing.
From the outset it was clear that the event had become a ‘two horse race’. Haines and Young, playing in the same group, both struggled early on quickly going to 3 over par on the more difficult side of the course, whilst Sherreard also found the links conditions to be very testing as he dropped two shots.
Conversely, County Champion Liam Burns and the in-form Jason Barnes were quickly into red figures with Burns going to 3 under par after six holes.
Steady starts by the remainder of the team boded well as the tension increased.
Apparently struggling slightly with his game, Matt Haines showed why he is rated as one of the best amateur golfers in Great Britain as he turned a seemingly disappointing round into an excellent one with a brilliant series of holes to finish with a two under score of 68.
As Barnes and Haines reached the turn they hit the wind but both finished with good scores around the par figure.
However, whilst Jonathan Bell was the model of consistency it was clear that late-starter Jordan Gibb was struggling, and he soon found himself 7 over par with a very painful quadruple bogey 8 on his card.
Meanwhile Sherreard also proved his class as he started to produce birdies to finish on a one under par score of 69 totalling a very impressive 137 (two under for the day).
Unfortunately, Gibb’s putter continued to let him down and with some missed putts he was still 7 over par with five holes remaining.
Bell had carded a respectable 73 and with the majority of the Hampshire team scoring just over the par figures things were becoming desperately close.
Gibb rallied producing par figures for the next few holes and a brilliant bunker shot on his last hole produce a much needed birdie to enable him to finish on 76, completing the last five holes in a battling one under par.
However, it was not enough. Both team’s finished the afternoon round on 426 (six over par) enabling Hampshire to take the title by virtue of their slender morning lead.
The day’s individual winner was the ever impressive Tom Sherreard, and the audience was generous in its applause as the Chairman of the SE Championship Committee wished Tom luck in his next tournament – The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale !!
This was a fine performance by a committed and focussed Kent side who were clearly desperate to win. Whilst the result was hugely disappointing we must also acknowledge the excellent display by a fine Hampshire team. Their winning score of just six over par must be one of the best in recent years and it is incredible to realise that this tense, arduous and compelling competition was so closely fought.
My thanks go to every team member who tried their hardest and proudly represented their County……………... if only !!! |
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Colts v Dorset
Report to follow |
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Jonathon Bell
Jonathan Bell from Kent have been selected to represent the English Golf Union in the Skandia Junior Open in Sweden at the end of this month.
Bell, 16, was English under 14 Champion in 2004. He has twice finished in the top three in the Douglas Johns Trophy while last year he finished sixth in the South East Junior Championship and ninth on the Carris Trophy.
The Royal Blackheath lad also represented the EGU in the Dutch Junior Masters coming 6th. Recently he came 3rd in the Fairhaven Trophy but this week has won the Sir Henry Cooper Junior Masters at Nizels
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Liam Burns
The County Champion, Liam Burns, competed last week in a strong field for the Irish Youths Open Amateur Championship at Lisburn Golf Club in Northern Ireland. There were 6 Irish Internationals in the tournament and Liam beat all but one. His level par 72 hole total of 288 (71, 70, 77, 70) in miserably wet and windy conditions was good enough to secure the silver medal. The winner of the event, Irish International Seamus Power from West Waterford, won for a record equalling 3rd time. Seamus is at university in America where he has won several tournaments.
This event has demonstrated continuing good form for Liam which began when he won the Stoke Poges Trophy on 9/10th May and continued with wins in the Waterford Trophy, the Bill Marriott Trophy, the County Championship and a 3rd place in the Royal St. George's Grand Challenge. |
www.gui.ie |
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Alex Young
Alex Young wins at premier sporting school, on their home golf course in Somerset. He won the Kevin Jackson trophy with 42 stableford points. He furthered his success in Petworths Seaford College, by winning the Seaford Mashie trophy with his playing partner Alistair Jenner. |
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KENT COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIPS
ROYAL BLACKHEATH GOLF CLUB
From a field of 72, Liam Burns (Sundridge Park) won the Championship when he beat Jordan Gibb (Deangate Ridge) 5&4 in the Final to take the Trophy back to Sundridge, where it was won last year by team-mate John Macklin. Matt Williams (Sittingbourne) won the Hetherington Salver, beating Junior Joe Harper (Cobtree Manor) 2&1.
Royal Blackheath Junior Jonathon Bell won the Scratch Cup with 137 after a count-back over Tony Coulstock (Shortlands), and also took the Simpson Cup for the Under 25’s best gross.
The Astor Cup, with the lowest Nett of 135 over 36 holes, went to James Nelson (Westerham). With a score of 423, the partnership of Burns, Macklin and Michael Hart also took the Team Championship back to Sundridge.
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Results
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KENT v DORSET
The young Kent team (4 juniors) arrived singing the praises of this superb golf course presented in immaculate condition as it prepares to host the regional qualifying rounds for The Open in a few weeks time.With many of the Kent side experiencing the delights of Ferndown for the first time, the morning foursomes got off to a very good start, despite Dorset fielding several players who were playing on their home course.
Excellent performances were once again produced from the impressive pairing of Harper (15 yrs) and Saunders (17yrs) whilst the reliable Bell and the under rated O'Connell proved too strong for their opponents.
A healthy lead was met with a healthy lunch as we changed from the traditional 'Sunday roast' to chicken pasta but unfortunately the change in diet was not reflected in the afternoon as the Kent team seemed somewhat lethargic, quickly going behind in virtually every match.
However, energy levels were gradually restored as Kent stalwart Dave Jessup (who had travelled down in the early hours of the morning) rounded off a great day for himself, by defeating home player Matt Watkins with a fine display of controlled golf.Losses by Campbell, O'Connell and Turner swung the match back in favour of the hosts and with Michael Hamilton 3 down things were looking a little bleak.
However, Hamilton staged a fine recovery only to see his opponent sink a 25 feet birdie putt on the last to secure an important Dorset victory. Whilst Kent had the 6 points required to avoid defeat, overall victory rested on the reliable shoulders of the back-marker and England U16 international Jonathan Bell.Despite wayward tee shots on the 16th and 17th, Bell showed his class by securing pars on both theses holes and a similar score on the 18th meant that Kent had won a very hard fought contest.
Thanks as always the the President and Mrs Burton for their unwavering support, and to County Coach Paul Page for all his hard work and endeavours in ensuring that we were able to eventually field a team, despite the usual bulwarks that always seem to appear at this level.
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KENT V SURREY
A very solid Surrey side visited the Kent coastline to test their links golfing ability on a surprisingly cold and windy day.
In the morning foursomes the strong pairings of Andrew Cooley (new West of England Champion) and Mark Booker, together with Alex Christie and Keith Walters (returning from the professional ranks) were easy winners against their Kent opponents, and things were looking exceedingly gloomy at one stage. However, the tenacious Burns and the reliable Beaumont fought back to secure victory on the 18th green against the Surrey Captain and his partner.
The highlight of the morning round was unquestionably the superb performance of debutants Liam Harper (15 yrs) and Michael Saunders (17 yrs). Paired against England Boy international Billy Fowles and the vastly experienced Warren Harmeston, the Kent youngsters found themselves one down with two holes to play. With a never-say-die attitude they won both the 17th and 18th to secure a memorable victory, with their opponents visibly buckling under the pressure.
Once again, the afternoon singles got off to a poor start with the impressive Cooley winning easily against the out-of-form Damien Turner. In hindsight the turning point of the whole match probably came in the second game where Liam Burns missed several opportunities to defeat Alex Christie. As numerous putts slipped by, so did our chances of an overall victory.
There was an irony in the pairing of Liam Harper against Keith Walters in game 5, as the youngest player in the field took on the eldest. With an age difference of over 35 years Harper quickly found himself 3 holes down. However, by the time he reached the 18th he was only one down, and following instructions from Head Coach Paul Page, Liam gambled everything in an effort to secure a half. Unfortunately this strategy did not pay off, with the wily Surrey ex-professional playing intelligent golf to win the game.
This was a very close match played in exactly the right spirit with the best team winning on the day.
The positive factors for Kent was the discovery of two great emerging talents in Liam Harper and Michael Saunders. They both equipped themselves magnificently against experience opponents and proved that they are comfortable in making the transition to senior golf.
My thanks to Princes Golf Club for hosting a great two days and to all the County officials for their much appreciated support.
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| 6 May |
Jonathan Bell Selected for England Under 18
Jonathan has been selected to represent the English Golf Union in the Skandia Junior Open in Sweden at the end of this month. Bell, 16, was English under 14 Champion in 2004. He has twice finished in the top three in the Douglas Johns Trophy while last year he finished sixth in the South East Junior Championship and ninth on the Carris Trophy.
The Royal Blackheath lad also representing England in the Dutch Junior Masters coming 6th. Last weekend he finished 3rd in the Fairhaven Trophy, a national under 18 event.
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| 5 May |
STOP PRESS
Haines wins Lytham Tophy
In difficult conditions at the famous links of Royal Lytham and St Annes Matt Haines managed to hold his nerve and claim one of the most prestigious titles in amateur golf. A link to the full report is listed below.
http://www.golfweek.com/story/lytham-rd4-050408
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| 30 Apr |
Matt Haines Selected for ENGLAND MEN'S team
Matthew Haines, the reigning English Under 18 Champion from Kent, is one of three new caps in the England team for the international with France, supported by Your Golf Holidays, at Frilford Heath, Oxfordshire, on 10th and 11th May.
Haines, 18, from the Rochester & Cobham club and a pupil at The Howard School in Rainham, won the Under 18 title for the Carris Trophy at Saunton last July, a success that followed his maiden Boy Cap in the European Boys Team Championships in Denmark. He was also a member of the victorious Boys Home Internationals team and the winning GB&I side against Europe in the Jacques Leglise Trophy. The 2007 winner of the Peter McEvoy Trophy, Haines was also a member of the winning England team in the Honda International Junior Championship in Japan and was included in this year’s England A Squad. |
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Kent v Essex
Walmer & Kingsdown
A barmy day welcomed our visitors to the golfing riveria of the South East coast line, and as expected the cliff tops of Walmer proved to be an unexpected sight for the Essex1st team as they arrived for this annual encounter (.......sorry about that Dave).
The very young Kent team, consisting of all junior players (with one execption), took on a full strength Essex team.
In the morning fousomes the Kent boys fared extremely well, with our only loss coming from the seemingly strongest pair of England hopefuls Billy Britton and Liam Harper. There were impressive performances from the ever promising Jack Colegate and Charlie Wilson and the home side enjoyed a narrow advantage at lunch.
However, the afternoon singles proved to be a step too far for many of the Kent youngsters as the experieced Essex team turned the screws and won these encounters at a canter.
Despite other trials and tribulations, there was no doubt that the 18th tee proved to be Kent's nemesis throughout the day. With no fewer that five Kent players hitting their tee shots out of bounds on this hole to either lose or half their matches, the art of playing good match play golf was proving to be a steep learning curve. As the Captain and President watched in disbelief player after Kent player selected the driver as the most appropriate weapon on this relatively easy par 5 hole, despite the knowledge a 'half' would secure either victory or halved match. As driver after driver steered the ball towards Calais, each player soon rued their lack of match play course management skills.
Some unfortunate incidents of lack of etiquette from a minority of the Essex team unfortunately marred this friendly encounter but this did not detract from the superb hospitality offered by Walmer & Kingsdown. This is certainly a venue that can be considered for future County events.
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| 17 Apr |
North Foreland Junior Open
On a very windy day the winner, by 4 shots with a level par gross 71 was Alfie Plant. Alfie and his dad Darren, identified the coaching they had received during the winter from Region 1 coach Nigel Lee and Ian Bets as a great help to him. Dad said it was great to see the County helping develop the talent in Kent
The Junior Open at North Foreland is also a qualifier for the Telegraphy Junior Championship - Well Done Alfie!
The Kent Junior Order of Merit can be seen on the Order of Merit page
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Kent V Suffolk
Felixstow Ferry – 5th April 2008
By mutual agreement, the match was played 10 a-side, but in the conventional League format adopted for 8-man Teams. To view further Kent potential, Captain Simon Naylor took the opportunity to play 5 ‘rookies’ each partnered by a more experienced member of the side and it paid off in the foursomes with Tom Beaumont/Rudi L’Anson and John/Darren Timms squeezing 1 holes and David Jessup/Liam Harper romping to 4&3 to give Kent a 3 – 2 lead at lunch. Making an impressive start in the singles, Burns, Harper and Beaumont all with 3&2’s and Jessup 4&3, put Kent well on the road but Suffolk got the chance to get back into the game, pulling two back at the expense of L’Anson (2&1) and Godwin (2holes). However the recovery was short-lived as Timms halved the next game and Macklen followed to win his close the match on the 18th With points for the last two games shared, Kent had added 6 ½ in the afternoon to give the
Result; Kent 9 ½ (3, 6 ½) - Suffolk 5 ½ (2, 3 ½).
An excellent all-round team performance and particularly that of 15 year old Liam Harper coming back from an early 2 down to beat his experienced and ex-Professional opponent who described him as ‘superb’.
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| 21 Apr |
SUCCESS FOR MAGPIES
Bromley Golf Club, despite having probably the smallest membership in the County, have been having success of late. They won through to the 3rd round of the Mail on Sunday Classic beating much fancied opposition on the way.
In their junior ranks James Heafield along with his partner finished second at Princes Golf Club in the Adult / Junior betterball only losing on count back - James scoring a very impressive 4 over par whilst younger brother Mathew Heafield finished 3rd net at the recent Kent Cubs event at Romney Warren |
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| 20 Apr |
Kent Colts v Kent Ladies
With an interesting east wind prevailing, Littlestone Links proved an ideal location, to test the two sides prior to the final friendly before the start of the league season.
The Colts, as is tradition, had to give the Ladies a 2 up start on the first tee. The Ladies were without one of their key players, Sian Evans who withdrew late due to sickness. However, Ollie Daws, Sophie's 10 year old brother stepped into the breach. The Colts got off to a good start winning all 4 foursomes in the morning.
With the wind stiffening in the afternoon, Ben Miles just got the better of recently crowned Kent Ladies Champion Anne Wheble by 2 holes. The Ladies immediately replied with Helen Batt edging out Adam Hedges at the last. However, the Colts rallied defiantly taking the next 5 games, Michael Hamilton leading the way followed by Kevin O'Connell, Rudi L'Anson, Darren Timms and Jordan Godwin to put the match beyond the Ladies.
Finally, Ollie or Mollie, Daws as the rest of the team called him took the final game against luckless Ryan Boyns, who is still recovering from injury, by a margin of 4 and 3.
Both teams learnt a lot from the match, with a strong performance for the Colts from Ben Miles, Adam Hedges, Kevin O'Connell and the ever reliable Darren Timms. Man of the Match .......Ollie Daws despite an own goal, for coming in at the last moment and playing so well.Good luck for the Kent Ladies and we wish them every success in their forthcoming Inter County Week.
The County expressed their thanks to Littlestone Golf Club and their Members for the use of their excellent facilities.
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Results |
| 16 Apr |
Junior County golfer wins the prestigious
'Laddie Lucas Spoon'.
Jake Spearpoint won this event at Princes Golf Club on Wednesday 16th April 2008. He shot a round of 77, 5 over par, to win the scratch title. This was close contention with his fellow County team mate, Max Orrin, who was runner up on countback.
A great result for the County! |
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| 16 Apr |
County coaching pays off !
Bryan Rutherford from Nizels Club, who attends the County coaching at Wilderness, won the Adult & Junior Open at Princes on Tuesday with his dad as his weak partner! A very well run event in near perfect conditions and enjoyed by a good field of young talent and " others ". |
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| 12 Apr |
Kent Colts v Sundridge Park
On a windy day with heavy showers Kent Colts played a strong Sundridge Park Team in what has historically been a very difficult fixture for the Colts.
On an excellent course for the time of year the morning foursomes were halved 2 each with the Colts winning the top two matches with victories for Bell/ Colgate and Britton/ Boyns. Sundridge Park quickly hit back with victories for Smith/ Abbott and Beaumont/ Hedges.Sundridge Park dominated the afternoon singles 6 matches to 2 with wins by Dring, Burns, Macklen, Deeble, Beaumont and Hedges. The Colts successes were I'Anson over Abbott and Boyns whose opponent was unfortunately injured and had to retire. Again a good win 8 matches to 4 by a strong Sundridge Park Team and some valuable lessons learnt for the Colts.
The County thanked the Members of Sundridge for their hospitality and their continuing support to county golf.
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| 7 Apr |
Kent U18 Boys v Essex & Middlesex
Langdon Hills
Essex provided an excellent venue for this annual triangularmatch with Essex and Middlesex at U 18 level. There were very good vantage points on the course where quality golf could be viewed. The weather conditions were good, bright in the morning with a slight cool breeze and cloud cover developing as the match proceeded throughout the day.
The morning foursomes went very much Essex’s way dropping only 2 points to each of the other counties (perhaps it was home advantage?). The pairing of Liam Harper & Ben Collins played extremely well and produced maximum points for the county. The only other pairing to pick up points with a win were Dan Brown & Jack Laws, over Middlesex. Although it seemed that Essex were running away with the match, it was possible with 48 points available in the afternoon singles that a ‘catch up’ was feasible. However, it could be said that the Kent side in the afternoon played like the England cricket team.
As the score sheet suggests there was an early collapse with the openers, a middle order revival and with the tail enders, the ‘tail wagged’. Maximum points in the singles were gained from Darren Timms, Casey Rossiter-Legg and Ryan Boyns who all played with determination. Debutant for the U 18’s was young Jack Colegate. He is a very good prospect for the future and at only 15 years of age, he is, as they say, ‘up for it’. He worked hard at his game throughout the day and very much had the will to win. Essex managed to keep ahead throughout the afternoon with valuable points been gained at will and came out convincing winners.
A bright point for Kent was that from being behind at lunch we came back strong to beat Middlesex by 7 points. As already mentioned this was an ideal venue for this type of match and Essex should be congratulated for being perfect hosts. Langdon Hills Golf Club should also be congratulated for providing a course in very good condition, with some very interesting holes (13th – a drivable par 4, 14th – plenty of water! & 15th – a deep pond very close to the green) and pin positions (8th!).
The catering provision was excellent and there was a good contingent of the membership supporting the event. Their support, along with all the other county officials on the day, was invaluable. Result: Essex 53 pts, Kent 31 pts and Middlesex 24 pts. Next years match will be hosted by Middlesex.
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Results |
| 7 Apr |
Watson Trophy
Dartford Golf Club
NEW DATE
Sunday 25th May
All those who were due to play in the event are asked to contact
Mrs Amanda Malas
Secretary Office
01322 226455
URGENTLY about their availability
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| 7 Apr |
Portuguese Open
Quinta da Marinha
MATT HAINES
Matt's first appearance on the European Tour, as an amateur, proved to be very successful. Having made the cut, with a birdie on his last hole, he then went on to finish Tied 60th. An amazing performance for a rookie to win the Amateur Trophy
Matt's week included playing practice rounds with Thomas Bjorn, Ross McGowan and Lloyd Saltman.
On the bag for the week was Pete Newby, former caddy for David Gilford.
Well done Matt - we are all very proud of you.
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Photo 1
Photo 2 |
| 3 Apr |
Portuguese Open
Quinta da Marinha
MATT HAINES
Matt will be playing in the Portuguese Open, on the European Tour, having received an invite from the Portuguese Golf Federation.
The invitation was originally for Gary Wolstenhome who declined the offer because he had already accepted a place in the England Team to play in the Sherry Cup. The Portuguese authorities very kindly extended their offer to another England player and English Golf Union selected Matt Haines.
GOOD LUCK MATT
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| 15 Mar |
Sunningdale Foursomes
Matt Haines from Rochester & Cobham and his partner Rachel Drummond (Beaconsfield GC) were runners up in the Sunningdale Foursomes held 11th-14th March. To reach the final they had to play 6 rounds of knockout golf. They were beaten in the final by C. Cowper & N. Reilly by the narrowest of margins 1 up. A remarkable feat. An interesting field with the likes of Bernard Gallacher and Sam Torrence playing.
Matt, who attends The Howard School in Rainham, is a member of the England A squad and is widely tipped to gain his full International Cap this year. In the last twelve months Matt has won the McEvoy Trophy, The Carris Trophy, represented England Boys in the European Championships and the Home Internationals and represented Great Britain and Ireland against the Rest of Europe.
Sunningdale is one of the few courses in the country to have a long history of both amateur and professional, ladies and men's tournaments.The Sunningdale Foursomes, played early in the golfing year, is so attractive and has such a great golfing ethos that many tour professionals make a point of taking part. It is a credit to the Sunningdale golf club that this event remains a highlight of the golfing calendar.
The competition is open to men and women, professional and amateur, and has produced some notable winners, including two Open Champions, Alf Padgham, Max Faulkner. More recent winners have included Anthony Wall, Luke Donald and Ross Fisher.
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16 Mar |
Kent Boys v Rochester & Cobham
The second of the pre- season friendlies was played today at Rochester & Cobham. In the after match speeches the R&C Captain, Jason Morris suggested that the conditions on the day were ‘filthy’. The golfers and officials had to suffer a cold, northerly wind with driving rain, yuk!
However, the golf was played in good spirit and a very strong R&C side claimed a resounding victory 6 – 2. Kent Boys winners on the day were Jordan Godwin claiming a good 4 and 3 victory and Dan Brown who was also very solid and came from behind to win 2 and 1. Matt Haines, for R&C, played extremely well and showed his England class beating his opponent Michael Saunders with ease. We all wish him well with his golf this year.
Captain on the day was Ed Cannons, who stepped in for Junior Captain, Charlie Wilson at late notice, thanked R&C for their continued support with this annual fixture and wished the club every success for the for coming season. |
Results |
| 9 Mar |
Kent v Middlesex
Rochester & Cobham Park
The 1st team's season got off to its traditional start with a friendly fixture against Middlesex.
The morning foursomes saw some close matches edging Kent's way, although Middlesex's top pair got our opponents off to an emphatic start in the opening game.
However, in the afternoon singles Kent strength in depth proved too much, and we won every game. Some of the many highlights were a resounding 'dogs licence' victory for 1st team debutant Dave Jessup Jnr (with Dad on the bag), a hard fought win for birthday boy Rob Clark (can you believe he is only 22?) and County Champion John Macklen missing an 'ace' on the difficult 16th by a whisker, to finish off his game in style.
However, perhaps the best performance of the day was a superb 2&1 victory by Liam Burns against England 'A' Squad member Andrew Johnson, currently one of the best amateurs in the Country.
Particular thanks to the President and Messrs Saunders, Donaghey and Pocknell for their indefatigable support and to Rochester & Cobham GC who, as always, supported the County superbly.
2008 promises to be a challenging year for Kent at all levels. Four of our senior players are leaving the amateur ranks to try to make it as professionals and whilst this will seriously deplete the 1st team, it is hoped that we will have sufficient talent in our younger players to ensure a seamless transition from junior to Colt to 1st team golf........... only time will tell !!
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Results |
28 Feb |
Kent Seniors Trials
Royal St.George’s - 28 February 2008
From a field of 28 that included eleven of the squad that brought honours to Kent last year, it was a case of the survival of the fittest as 9 of the first 11 places went to the Kent squad, four of which shared lowest gross. With the added complication in the absence of two lead players from 2007 Skipper Nick Allen’s problem in the selection of his team to open in match-play against Royal Blackheath on the 16th March could be who to leave out!
Howard Moxon, Sam Smale and Rickey Moore dropped just one shot for one over par 36 in the opening nine to lead the Field one ahead of David Jamieson, Chris Reynolds and Dick Seamer. Also on 37 Ray Williams and Kent Colts Manager Pat Donaghey off 7 handicap. After a 39 opening, Roger Salmon upset the board with an immaculate 34 to go top with 73, and Chris Buckley joined him adding a 35 to his front nine 38. Seamer and Jamieson with 36 moved up to join the lead as Smale and More both hit treble bogeys at the 15th, and Moxon found three too many 5’s for 38. Another 37 set Reynolds in 4th. place as Donaghey slipped on 40 and Williams hit 3 double bogeys in his 43. Making a mark, D.Haley (Dartford) entered a tidy back nine 36 to total 75 and get amongst ‘the squad’. After a 38 out, Chris Tappin closed on two double bogeys for 39.
Result; Count-back on 73 – R.Salmon, C.Buckley, D.Seamer, D.Jamieson. |
Results |
24 Feb |
Kent Colts v Langley Park
24th February
Kent Colts first friendly for 2008 had four new juniors representing the Colts team for the first time against a Langley Park side which inculde that county stalward Richard Hervey.
The morning foursomes resulted in a lead for the Colts at lunch by 3 matches to 1with wins for Liam Burns/Jordan Godwin, Tom Beaumont/ Jack Colgate and Darren Timms/ Michael Saunders. The success for Langley Park being the victory by Nick McCormack/Julien Catlin over Rudi I'Anson/ Michael Hamilton.The afternoon singles had wins for the Colts by Liam Burns, Tom Beaumont, Jordan Godwin, Rudi I'Anson, Jack Colgate, Michael Saunders, and Darren Timms. Langley Park win was by Julien Catlin over Michael Hamilton.
The final result was Kent Colts 10 Langley Park 2.
The County expressed its thanks to Langley Park and its members for hosting the match and offered their congratulations to the green staff for the excellent condition of the course at this time of year.
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Results |
23
Feb |
Kent Boys v Sene Valley
23th February
The first match of the season for the Kent U18’s is the annual friendly against a team of men from Sene Valley Golf Club. On a dull, foggy & windy day the lads proved to be very strong against good opposition winning 7 – 1.
Kent Junior Captain this year, Charlie Wilson was first out and had a good tussle against a fellow club member. Charlie was always in the ‘driving seat’ and finished up winning 2 & 1. Ed Cannons was next out and he too had a good match finishing on the 18th two up. The only player to lose for Kent was Jordan Godwin who had a great match against the tenacious Jack Hamilton. Jordan pulled back from three down just after the turn but an eagle by Jack on the 15th, a par 5, proved conclusive.
The next five matches were fairly convincing wins for the Kent side, Jack McKenzie, playing his first match in Kent colours, claiming the best win of the day 6 & 5. The other winners were Liam Harper, Casey Rossiter-Legg, Michael Saunders and Dan Brown. Dan played out a great back nine having been 1 down at the turn to win 3 & 2.
Many thanks must go to Sene Valley Golf Club for their kindness and hospitality on the day.
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Results |
| 21 Feb |
Region 4 v Region 6
Royal St Georges Golf Club
21 Feb 2008
Following the recent cold snap of frost and fog, today's weather at Royal St George's was pleasant for playing golf considering the time of the year. This annual encounter between Region 4 and for this year Region 6 proved to be closer than the score suggests. Nine out of the twelve matches went to the final green before Region 4 claimed victory. First out was this year's County U18's Captain, Charlie Wilson & U18 County player Ed Cannons. They had a great match with Ed holding on to a one hole lead over the last three holes to win by one hole.
Best result of the day went to Max Orrin with a convincing 6 & 5 win. It was his straight hitting and greens in regulation that supported this win.Region 6 winners on the day were Tom Hay who won on the last against against Jake Spearpoint, Russell Greenhill, who was strong against Jack Staker who had problems with his driving and Daniel Ward who kept it steady against his opponent Louis Taylor.
Other wins on the day for Region 4 went to Jake Bushell, Alex Dixon, Michael James and Howard Ledingham. Team Captains on the day were Elliot Brown and Ed Cannons. Both were very complimentary about the organisation of the day, the condition of the course and of course the catering, which was, as always, excellent.
Finally, Dave Oldcorn spoke at the end of the proceedings about the new county website: www.kcgu.org for all the County's golfing needs and more.
Grateful thanks must go out to Royal St George's Golf Club for supporting this annual event.
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Results |
2 Feb |
HINGE TROPHY
Final at Royal St Georges Golf Club
With an excellent round of 71 against the Course 70, Damien Turner (The London Club) pipped James Smith (Sundridge Park) by one shot to win the Final Trial, and by 2 shots to beat Rob Clark (Faversham) and win the Littlestone/St.George’s Aggregate for the Hinge Trophy.
First out with Clark, Alex Young (Chesterfield) dropped 7 shots in an untidy opening that included a treble at the 8th and picking up another at the 15th, finished out of the race on 81. Clark, dropping just three shots on the first nine, ran into a flurry of bogeys including a double to end on 77. Turner held level par until the 17th for his 71, whilst James Smith (Sundridge Park) closed on 72 aided by the only eagle of the day at the 17th, and Club-mate Liam Burns, disturbed from an otherwise tidy round by a double on the 4th, finished with 73. Littlestone’s Chris Reynolds, Kent Senior and ‘Trials Veteran’ now with 125 to his name, was one over after nine, but found too many 5’s on the run-in, also for 73. Kevin O’Connell (Shooters Hill) hiccupped round in 74, and despite a very tidy finish, last year’s winner Jason Barnes dropped opening shots to cost him 75.
Congratulations to the nine Juniors making the Final, Dan Brown (Chart Hills) topping with 75 gross from a good round with nothing worse than a ‘sprinkling’ of bogeys to take 8th place in a field of 40.and Bryan Rutherford had done just enough to earn two third places on count-back. Brown’s was a creditable performance with 75’s from the two venues.
The County is grateful to Princes, Royal Cinque Ports, Littlestone and Royal St George’s Golf Clubs for once again hosting the series of Trials to bring the 2007 Programme successfully to a close, and expresses an appreciation to all Clubs that have provided venues for the Kent Union fixtures.
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Results at St Georges
Aggregate Results
Photo |
6 Jan
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HINGE TROPHY
1st round at Littlestone
Of the 83 competitors including 30 Juniors entering from the two previous Qualifying rounds at Princes and Royal Cinque Ports, 10 more would go out from the 50 at Littlestone to leave just 40 to battle for the Hinge Trophy in the Final at Royal St. Georges.
On the Par 71 White Course, just two players were destined to break the Course par.
Rob Clark (Faversham), who was last in the queue at Princes, was best through the front 9 with an immaculate 3-under 33, with Kevin O’Connell (Shooters Hill), despite picking up an early triple bogie, and Tony Coulstock (Shortlands) two behind on 35, chased by a pack comprising Nick Panting (Rochester & Cobham), Allister Raphael (Canterbury), Mike Watson (Sittingbourne), Danny Curtis (Knole Park), Liam Burns (Sundridge Park), Mark Gilmore (Royal Cinque Ports) and a Chart Hills trio of Jason Barnes, with Juniors Daniel Brown and the youngest competitor at 13 years Mark Collins, all on 36.
On the run-in, Clark dropped two shots for a total of 70, but lost the number one spot on count-back to Alex Young (Chestfield) who closed with 3-under par 32 after a 38 opening. Barnes moved to third place with 37 over O’Connell who ended with a late run of bogies to total 74. His 7 at the par 4 second had cost him. Panting and Raphael lost out with 42’s, whilst Watson, Gilmore and past winner Curtis could not better 40 to move up. On the par 4 16th a 9 crippled Burns.
Although dropping just one shot on the run-in, Chris Reynolds (Littlestone) and Peter Newman (Sittingbourne) found it was not enough after their opening nine holes. Richard Davies (Canterbury) on 82 was the last in the 40 to go through.
Result. A.Young 70 on C/b over R.Clark; J.Barnes 73; D.Turner 74 on C/b over K.O’Connell.
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Results |
| 14 Jan |
Dave Jessup, just won central Gauteng Amateur Seniors Championship 72, 71 =143, won by 3 shots |
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