Monday 26th August 2013
Many thanks to all members and visitors who supported the recent Classsic in aid of The Southern Hospice. There was an excellent response form golfers from all local clubs and this was very much appreciated.
This weekends competition was another round of the Eclectic competition and there were good rounds from Kevin McCauley with 40 points, Michael Smith with 39 points but the leader with 42 points was Philip Hughes although I did hear that Captain Con McParland was going very well out on the course. Regardless of who wins the golf there can be no doubt that the prize for best turned out golfer has to go to Kieran Simpson whose John Daly style pants and pink tee-shirt makes him stand out from the crowd. Even Thomas Hughes was impressed!!
Next Sunday is Lady Captains Day and as usual the men’s competition will be played over 27 holes and a timesheet will be in operation. The prize giving ceremony will take place at the conclusion of the third nine and all male members are encouraged to support the Lady Captain on her big day.
Have not been present recently so do not have an update of the state of the Fred Daly, Doubles or Wednesday Cup competitions but will supply an update next week. Only a few weeks left of the Wednesday Cup competition so very few chances left for those of us who have yet to qualify for the final week’s prize.
A short Committee meeting (short in terms of time not the make up of the members) will take place this Wednesday at the conclusion of the competition.
Monday 5th August 2013
Pat on Fire
Pat Malone has been playing excellent golf in the recent weeks and he reinforced this on Sunday as he returned a super net 61 to edge out his fellow Whitecross men John Shields who had set the early pace with a net 65 and Dad Jim who managed a superb 64. There were still a number of players on the course when I left and I’m sure the final grouping of Petesy McCoy, Micheal McCreesh, Larry Crilly, Kenny Murphy and a couple of others might have an input into the final placing.
Last Wednesday night competition went ahead despite the very inclement weather conditions Christy O’Brien ensured his place in the final night shoot-out as he carded an impressive 22 points.
In the Sam Rutherford inter-club competition Michael Smith’s side were extremely unlucky to go out at the quarter-final stage despite beating Banbridge G.C.by four holes in the home leg. Those 7 holes conceded in the away leg proved just too much. Later on this month I will select a team to challenge Michael’s team, so looking forward to this. Will keep you in touch.
Next weekend sees a very important competition as there is a Four-Person Classic in aid of The Southern Area Hospice. The cost is an extremely generous £80 per team.
The quarter-finals of the Doubles and Fred Daly will be concluded over the coming weeks and Declan Campbell/Seamus Kane booked their semi-final place on Sunday with a superb win over Hugh Rooney/Frank Sloan, the match eventually being decided on the 20th hole. These two boys will be very hard to beat this year,
On behalf of the Captain, members and Management I want to express sincere sympathy to members Clint and Tom Rushe and families on their recent bereavement.
Monday 29th July 2013
Hot Weather—Even Hotter Eugene
There was a large (no not in size) turn out of members for this weekends Single Stableford qualifier and rarely has there been so many excellent cards returned with 40 and 40 plus points the order of the day. Those players in with 42 points must have been thinking that they were in the running but Eugene McCullagh soon put paid to all those thoughts as he returned an excellent 48 points. Yes, this is not a misprint, but those of us who regularly play with Eugene always knew that he was capable of this type of performance. Of course there were still a number out on the course including the Simpson boys so who knows you may not get that prize yet Eugene. Not even sure if there was a prize for this weekends competition!!!
Last Wednesday competition was won by Niall Watters with Francis Simpson in second place but it is still Raymond Murphy who leads the overall standings.
In the Player of The Year category it is still Francis Simpson who leads the way closely followed by Pat Malone and John Murphy.
In the Electic competition Gerard Roe leads the way followed by Paul Kelly and Michael McCreesh but there is still at least two rounds of this to be completed so still time for others to make a move.
The Fred Daly match-play has reached the quarter-final stage and Garry O’Hare is now firmly in place as the favourite to take the title. Garry now faces Pearse Maginnis who managed to overcome Aidan Carragher, Tom Rushe is awaiting the winner of the Philip Hughes/Colm Rock tie, Terry Mulholland will do battle with Kevin McCauley while Damian McMahon will face either Seamus Kane or Declan Campbell.
Next weekends competition is a Single Stroke format.
On behalf of members and Management sincere condolences are passed to members John and Pat Murphy on the death of their father and to past members Brian Finnegan and Collie Lewis on the recent death of their mothers.
Monday 22nd July 2013
Youth Rule Captains Day
Having set the pace after the first 18 holes it was young Francis Simpson who was just able to hold his nerve and his game together to claim the Captains Prize on what was one of the best ever Captains Day at Ashfield. In second place after an excellent third nine was young Joe Rock and youth again was to the fore as Cathal Simpson took the gross prize to complete an excellent day in the Simpson household-well almost Kieran!
The Category One prize went to Kevin McCauley, Category Two to Niall Hughes, 1st 18 went to Philip Hughes and the nines were taken by Ruairi Murchan, Gerard Roe and Seamus Kane. Micky McMahon took the Senior prize while the visitors prizes went to Colm Kearney and Robert Martin.
In the Junior Juvenile competition Owen Reel was second to Sean Rock while in the Senior section Cathal Simpson had to be content with second place behind Rory O’Neill. In the Ladies competition Brid Hearty took the Category One prize while Celina Burns took the category Two prize.
The Coffee and Scone (properly pronounced) event raised a total of £550 ancluding a very generous donation of £100 from the Whitecross Bowling Club.
Lady captain Noelle congratulated Con on his excellent day and hoped that her Day would be equally good. President Jim McLoughlin added his congratulations and Con completed the presentation ceremony by thanking Course and Restaurant management for all their help and support, the Committtee for the organization of the day and wife Geraldine and his family for all their support.
On the inter-club front there was disappointment for our Juvenile team who just lost out to Edenmore by one and a half shots. This was a great effort and what might have been had a full squad been available. The Sam Rutherford travel to Banbridge this weekend and hopefully they will entertain them the following Sunday in a position to progress to the next round.
In the Wednesday Cup Kenny Murphy secured his first weekly victory but it is namesake Raymond who continues to lead the overall with Paul Kelly and Kevin Donnelly his nearest pursuers.
Last weekends competition was won by Seamus Kane with Kevin Donnelly second and Kenny Murphy third.
In the Player of The Year category Francis Simpson now leads the way closely followed by Pat Malone and John Murphy.
Monday 8th July 2013
All Go For Con’s Big Day
Superb weather, excellent course conditions and a full turn out of members and visitors ensured that Captain Con McParlands big day got off to a flying start. Mattie Rice and Seamus McNulty were in place at 6.30 to ensure that the early starters in the McParland of Monaghan Street sponsored competition were set off in style. With the top 24 and ties being the cut mark for the third nine it was always going to be a tight target to hit.
All competitors were invited to commence their day with coffee and a scone and all contributions made will be going to the Marie Curie Foundation. Many thanks to Corn Dolly Bakeries Newry, for their generous sponsorship of the scones.
Out in one of the early groups it was Gerard Roe who set the standard as he recorded an excellent net64. Out on the course there were others compiling good scores with Philip Hughes, Kevin McCauley and Danny Sherry looking likely to match Gerard.
Full run through of all the days events next week
Sam Rutherford Team Excel
Congratulations to Micheal Smith and his Sam Rutherford team who were strong enough to go to Newcastle and ensure that the lead built up at home was enough to see them through to a quarter-final battle against Banbrige G.C. I certainly would not bet against this team going further in this competition.
In the Doubles match-play and Fred Daly singles the quarter-final stage has been reached and as to be expected there are many exciting matches coming up.
In the Fred Daly Philip Hughes takes on the in-form Colm Rock, Tom Rushe and Kevin Donnelly lock horns, Aidan Carragher faces Pearse Maginnis and Garry O’Hare will face either Thomas Hughes or Malachy O’Rourke. Garry O’Hare or Philip Hughes would seem to be the men to beat in this competition.
In the Doubles the compettiton is equally fierce and after scraping past Malachy O’Rourke/John Harte Micheal Smith and Pearse Maginnis face the winners of the Aidan Carragher/ Mattie Rice match against the Rock brothers Colm and Damian.
Collie Stuttard/ Niall Hughes face a strong challenge in Terry Mulholland /Frank Leonard, Frank Sloan/Hugh Rooney have to take on the big hitting Declan Campbell/Seamus Kane combo while their will be a lot of pride involved in the Cullyhanna/ Crossmaglen battle between Kevin O’Neill/Mickey McMahon and Joe Kindlon/Simon Hughes.
The Juveniles travelled to Edenmore on Saturday and although trailing after this round they are confident of being able to turn the tie around at home.
Monday 1st July 2013
All Ready For Con’s Big day
Next Sunday is one of the highlights of the golfing year at Ashfield as Captain Con McParland hosts his Captains Day. The competition will be played over 27 holes for those who make the cut at eighteen and with many members playing excellent golf at present it is sure to be a tight call to make it through to the last nine. Lets hope for a good day weather wise and if this happens then everything else is sure to be super. Best wishes to Con from Management, Committee and members.
Next Saturday will be a big day for our excellent Juvenile squad as they entertain Edenmore in the home leg of the Ronan Rafferty Trophy. Gareth and Damian know that Edenmore come with a big reputation but there is a quiet confidence in the Ashfield team. Best wishes to all concerned.
Paul Kelly continued his recent run of form as he took last weekends Eclectic prize to move himself into the top five of this competition. There was also good rounds from Kevin McCauley. Micheal Smith and Cathal Simpson, who all improved their overall position.
In last weeks Wednesday Cup it was the turn of youth as young Francis Simpson recorded an excellent 23 points to take the weekly prize and to put a little pressure on Raymond Murphy at the top of the overall competition.
Have not been updated as to the second round of the Fred Daly other than I had to pull out every conceivable stroke to get over the challenge of Niall Hughes, eventually getting through on the 19th hole-no not the club house. A reminder to those still in the Doubles match-play that second round games must be played this coming week.
No news yet as to how the Sam Rutherford team got on down in Newcastle but will update you on this and the juveniles next week.
Who will take the Captain’s Prize? Well as usual it will be quite open but I have a strong feeling that a certain Paul Kelly is playing the type of golf that could take the prize. If not look out for our youngest ever winner in Cathal Simpson.
Monday 24th June 2013
Juveniles secure Quarter – Final Spot
Congratulations to Gareth, Damien and their team on securing a place in the quarter-final of the Ronan Rafferty Trophy, as the built on the great away win by defeating Silverwood 15 points to five at home. They will now play the winners of the tie between Edenmore and Rockmount and hopes are high that this talented group could go all the way.
In the Sam Rutherford match against a very strong Mourne club our team managed to battle both the opposition and the weather conditions to secure an excellent 14 holes up position. However Captain Michael Smith is very much aware that the testing conditions at Royal County Down will require all eight players to be at their best if the are to make the quarter-final spot.
In the Wednesday Cup it was Ruairi Murchan who took last weeks prize with 20 points but it is still Raymond Murphy who continues to be the outright leader.
Congratulations to Kevin McCauley and Philip Hughes who did hang on to their lead in the Holmpatrick Cup qualifier last weekend and they will now represent Ashfield in the Ulster section.
A reminder to all members that the time-sheet for Captains Day is now up and it is important to ensure that your name is in place.
There will be a raffle in the Club-House this Wednesday night with the prize being two tickets for any day at the Irish Open at Carton House. Remember if your not in, you can’t win.
Congratulations to Colm Rock who had an excellent win in the Fred Daly, defeating Gareth McLoughlin on the 21st hole. A reminder that this week is the last opportunity to complete the current round of the Fred Daly. The doubles have one more week. I should know, I’m still in both!!!
Monday 17th June 2013
Juveniles show the way
In the Ronan Rafferty Trophy our Juveniles once again put up an excellent performance as they travelled to Silverwood and came away with a superb 17-4 lead to take into the home tie. This tie will take next weekend and any member who has a spare couple of hours should come out and support this team which has been superbly managed by our Convenors Damien and Gareth.
Holmpatrick Cup
The qualifying round for this All-Ireland event took place this weekend and there were many good cards in the mid forties returned but at the time of going to press it was the excellent return of 48 points by Kevin McCauley and Philip Hughes that led the way. I had heard that the Raymond Murphy/Garry O’Hare pairing had hit an excellent 25 points on the front nine but they would need to have maintained that form on the second nine if they were to oust Kevin and Philip.
Next weekends competition is another round of the Eclectic Stableford competition
Congratulations to all who were involved in the Whitecross GAC Barry Malone Memorial Classic. The organisation on the day and everything else about the event was indeed a fitting tribute to Barry.
The Wednesday Cup continues to attract a great turn-out and a reminder to members who cannot make every week that there are weekly prizes as well as the overall prize.
Best wishes to Micheal Smith and his Sam Rutherford team who entertain the Mourne Club Newcastle this Friday night with the return leg scheduled for RCD the following week.
Monday 10th June 2013
Hot Weather—Hot Scoring – Very Hot Paul
This weekend give us the best golfing weather of the year to date and the Fairways were busy over both Saturday and Sunday. Kevin Donnelly set the pace on Saturday as he returned 40 points and for a time on Sunday it seemed as this would be enough. However young Cathal Simpson once again proved his undoubted ability as he returned 42 points. This was then equalled by the not so young Pearse Maginnis but Cathal held onto the lead on a count-back. It seemed as positions one and two were secure but Paul Kelly was out in the final group and with an excellent back nine of 25 points Paul also returned a total of 42 points to take the Major prize.
The score returned by Paul should not be a surprise as he has been been playing very steady golf lately and won last Wednesdays 9 hole competititon with 21 points beating the 19 points that had been returned by Gerard Roe, In the overall standings for the Wednesday Cup the lead is currently held by Raymond Murphy who is just edging out Gary Loughran.
In the recent Doubles matches Ruairi Murchan/Stephen Bellew pairing proved too good for the father and son pairing of Jim and Pat Malone. In the Dorsey/Cullhanna tie Kevin O’Neill Mickey McMahon overcame the experienced partnership of Larry Crilly and Micheal McCreesh. Aidan Carragher/Mattie Rice were too strong a pair for Paul McCann and Rodney Quinn and this now sets them up for an interesting tie with Colm and Damien Rock. The Dromintee team of Malachy O’Rourke and John Harte had a good victory over Paul Kelly/Joe Martin and they now face Micheal Smith/Pearse Maginnis who eventually saw off the challenge of Gary Loughran/Damien Devlin.
All members are asked to try to ensure that they enter the Whitecross 4 person Classic next Saturday in memory of former member and friend Barry Malone.
Monday 3rd June 2013
Pat Breezes In
Pat Malone took the weekends Single Stableford prize as he returned an excellent 44 points in superb golfing conditions on Sunday. There were a number of other excellent scores returned but the closest to Pat was the 41 points returned by Silverbridge man Eamon McCann who claimed second prize
Inter-Club Ties
The Rosssmore Cup team captained by Collie Stuttard were unable to build on a strong away tie at Edenmore as they narrowly failed to win the home tie and so exit the 2013 competition. Micheal Savages Junior Cowdy team have their rearranged away tie at the Rossmore club on Sunday afternoon and hopefully they can join the Sam Rutherford team by securing a place in the next round.
Next weekends competition is the rearranged Holmpatrick Cup qualifying round. A reminder that this is played on a Four Ball Better Ball format.
In the Doubles competition their was a great win during the week for Aidan McKeown/Padraig Murphy as they took care of the very strong pairing of Micheal Savage/Christy O’Brien. Their was a strong Camlough area tie on Sunday morning as Declan Campbell/Seamus Kane accounted for the experienced pairing of Sean Cooney/Paddy McKeown.
Congratulations to Juvenile Convenor Gareth McLouhlin and his wife on the recent addition to their family and like wise congratulations to Karen and Damian.
There will be a Committee meeting on Wednesday night at 9.30 sharp.
Monday 27th May 2013
In-Form Rodney
After a recent victory at Killen Park Rodney Quinn continued his recent good form when he spearheaded his Three Man Scramble team to a walk-away victory on Sunday. Ably supported by Con McParland and Gareth McLoughlin the net score of 54.2 was just too good for all the other teams. This score included an excellent 6 birdies, probably all secured by Rodney.
Juveniles secure superb Ronan Rafferty victory.
Congratulations to Gareth Mcloughlin, Damian Rock and their juvenile team who recorded an excellent victory over a very strong Banbridge team in the Ronan Rafferty Trophy. Banbridge would be viewed as one of the strong teams in this competition so this is really a victory to savour. Best wishes to the team for their next round.
Some Heavy Weights Fall at Fred Daly First Round
There were a number of surprise results in the first round of the Fred Daly match-play and many of the fancied players will not see round two. Terry Mulholland defeated Kieran Simpson at the 17th, while the highly rated Micheal Smith only got to the 14th before he had to shake hands with Christy O’Brien. This was surely a heavyweight battle in every sense of the word. Other first round winners were Garry O’Hare over John Shields, Thomas Hughes over Danny Sherry and Raymond Murphy against Damien Devlin. Raymond now plays Seamus Kane who defeated Noel Nugent, Niall Hughes overcame the in-form Rodney Quinn to secure a tie against Pearse Maginnis who defeated Clint Rushe.
In the Doubles match-play I have only one result to hand and it sure was a shock as favourites Kieran Simpson and Gerry Fegan lost on the 17th hole to Frank Sloan and Hugh Rooney.
Last Wednesday nights winner was Sean McLoughlin with 20 points just pipping Micheal Smith and Tom Rushe.
In the race for Player of the Year it is John Murphy who leads the way, closely followed by John Shields, Martin Rooney and Joe Kindlon.
On behalf of the Captain and members I want to express our sincere sympathy to Ruairi Murchan and his family on the recent death of his father. May He rest In Peace.
Monday 20th May 2013
Pierce Purcell Team Just Miss Out Again
It was a similar story to the last two years as Raymond Murphy’s Pierce Purcell team just missed out on qualifying by a one point margin. This was despite a joint lowest score of the day at Clones by the combination of John Murphy and Michael McBride.
Junior Cowdy Cup
There was better news for the Junior Cowdy Cup team as Michael Savages outfit secured a three – one home victory and were confident of securing the necessary points away to Rossmore. That fixture was played on Saturday but due to the very inclement weather conditions it had to be called of after a few holes and no date has been fixed for the completion of the tie.
Rossmore Cup
Collie Stuttard’s team were playing their away leg at Edenmore on Sunday but I have no news of their progress but with a strong team out I would expect them to follow the example of the Sam Rutherford team and make the next round.
The Electic compettiton continued this weekend and it was young Cathal Simpson who recorded the best score of the day as he returned an excellent 43 points.
Next weekend is the qualifying round of the Holmpatrick Cup and any pairing who want to double up with their Doubles match-play may do so.
The Doubles and Fred Daly should be well under well this week and I will give a comprehensive run through next week.
Monday 13th May 2013
Gareth Proves That Lefties Have It
Gareth McLoughlin proved that his early season form was no flash in the pan as he secured the President’s Day Prize in what was an extremely competitive field. Gareth had set the pace over the first eighteen holes returning an impressive net 64 but there were 27 players within 6 shots as the third nine commenced in perfect weather conditions and in front of a large crowd at the 10th tee-Box. All 27 were sent ontheir way by Rodney Quinn who at least proved that he had some reason to be present on the day. Over the third nine it was the consistent Damian Rock who set the pace and for a long time it seemed as he might outdo his fellow Juvenile Convenor but Gareth maintained his steady form and came home by just one and half shots. Congratulations, not only to Gareth, but also to the entire field for making it such a competitive competition for Jim’s final year in this office.
The full results was
Over 55’s: Christy O’Brien, Division Two category: Noel Hughes, Division One Category: Cathal Simpson, Nines: Colm Rock, Martin Rooney, Niall Clarke, 1st Eighteen: John Murphy, Gross: Thomas Hughes, Second: Damian Rock, Winner: Gareth McLoughlin.
The Junior Juvenile prizes went to Tom Hamill and Sean Rock (in that order) while Jason Duffy edged out Cathal Simpson in the Senior Juvenile section.
The prizes were presented on Sunday evening at the side of the 18th Green and in his speech President Jim thanked all the members, the Committee, Management/Staff and his family for making his three years as President so enjoyable. It was an honour to serve in this role and he wished everyone all the best for the remainder of the season. Captain Con congratulated all the recipients and competitors and thanked Jim for organising such a wonderful day. There was then an excellent evenings entertainment in the club house and if you missed this I am told Pat Malone will be able to furnish you with the details!!
Sam Rutherford Team Secure Great Victory.
Congratulations to the Sam Rurherford team who headed to Mannan Castle with a slender two hole advantage from the hole leg but a great display by all four pairings ensured that Ashfield came through with a 4 hole lead. The team got off to a shaky start at Mannan but once Captain Michael Smith arrived his psychology was the driving force that turned the tie around( Michael told me this). Seriously, this was a super win against a very strong Mannan team and while it was a team win a special word of praise must go to the pairing of Paul McCann and Christy O’Brien who won by a massive 6 hole, which proved to be the conclusive score. So well done to Michael and his team and I will have news of the other teams next week, including how our Juveniles get on in the home return leg against Banbridge. Not sure of the exact score from the away tie but I am informed it is very close.
A reminder to all to ensure that the Fred Daly and Doubles match-plays are played within the set time frame and do check the notice-board to ascertain the rules for both.
Monday 29th April 2013
Apologies for not having notes last week but had to go across the pond to attend christening of number one grandson.
Happy Birthday Gareth
Gareth McLoughlin had an early Birthday present when his net 65 was good enough to take this weekends Single Stroke competition. Gareth just edged out the 66’s of Niall Watters and Michael Smith with young Niall taking second spot on the count-back.
The Wednesday Cup is now up and running and attracting a very good turn out of members. Two weeks ago it was Gary Loughran who returned a winning score of 21 points, while last Wednesday it was Raymond Murphy who took the first prize with 22 points.
The draw took place on Sunday for the Fred Daly singles and the Double match-play competitions and as usual there are a number of interesting pairings. Two of the stand out matches are the heavyweight pairing of Michael Smith and Christy O’Brien and the lighter clash of John Murphy against Larry Crilly. Other ties include the Whitecross clash of Pat Malone with Curly Murphy, Jim McLoughlin against Sean Cooney, Gareth McLoughlin versus Padraig McBride and Kieran Simpson versus Terry Mulholland. The full draw will be posted on the notice-board and members are asked to adhere to the dates as listed.
In the Doubles match-play there is a local derby as Larry Crilly/Michael McCreesh take on Kevin O’Neill/Mickey McMahon. Lets hope for Larry’s sake that Michael does not get tired after nine holes. Other notable draws are the matches between Paul McCann/Rodney Quinn and Mattie Rice/Aidan Carragher and favourites Kieran Simpson/Gerry Fegan against Frank Sloan/Hugh Rooney. Again check the notice-board for the full list of fixtures.
The inter-club scene got underway on Friday night as Michael Smith’s Sam Rutherford team hosted neighbours Mannan Castle. This proved to be a very tight affair and Ashfield hold a very slender lead going into the return fixture. However Michael seems confident that a win can be secured.
Next weekend will see the final President Day competition for Jim McLoughlin. Jim has served the club extremely well during his three year tenure and there will be a big turnout out of members next weekend to show their appreciation for the way he has carried out his duties as Club President. The Juvenile competition will take place on the Saturday and a reminder to any boy or girl interested in taking up the game that there is excellent coaching available fro PGA Professional Gavin Byrne and weekly competitions under the auspices of Convenors Gareth and Damian.
President’s Day competition will be over 27 holes and the presentation of prizes will take place after the third nine.
Monday 15th April 2013
Kevin blitzes all
Kevin Donnelly certainly made full use of the calmer Saturday weather as he returned an excellent 44 points to secure a first competition win. Malachy O’Rourke took second place with 39 points, just edging out Gerard Roe on a count-back.
Next weekends competition will be a Major Stableford which is a change from the original schedule.
The first week of the Wednesday Cup drew a great crowd with over fifty members participating. There were many 20 plus scores returned but all were eclipsed by the wonderful 24 points returned by young Cathal Simpson. Not sure what score Daddy returned but certainly was well short of 24 points.
Competition Convenor Mattie Rice asks all members to ensure that they have signed up for the Fred Daly singles and Doubles match-play by next weekend. Names should be on the sheet and fees clearly marked on the envelope and put into the competition box.
A reminder to all juvenile members and any young boy or girl interested in taking up the sport that coaching with Gavin Byrne is available on a Saturday morning. Gavin is also available for coaching sessions with seniors at a very reasonable rate.
The inter-club competitions are soon under way so if you are interested in representing the club in any of these keep your eye on the notice-board for information.
A final reminder to any member interested in taking out the personal protection insurance that the final date is Wednesday 24th April. Contact the Secretary or Treasurer.
Monday 8th April 2013
Warmer weather encourages members out
With a rise in temperature, however small, members were quick to respond and there was a very good turnout for the weekends 4 Ball-Better Ball competition. The most favourite return of the day was 43 points but this was not enough as two teams returned 47 points. First in were Captain Con McParland and fellow Whitecross man Pat Malone but this score was soon equalled by the young and old pairing of Cathal Simpson and Christy O’Brien. After some hurried maths the first prize went to Con and Pat who now go forward to represent Ashfield at Ulster level.
Its that time again.
Yes, the Wednesday Cup competition commences this Wednesday and for most members this is the indication that the season is really up and running. Not sure what format Mattie has in place for the overall prize but make sure you get out on Wednesday and get your Wednesday Cup of to a good start.
A reminder to Committee members that the April meeting will take place at 8.30 on Wednesday.
Congratulations to Garry and Paddy O’Hare who had a great win away in Lisburn in the Daily Mail Doubles competition. Best wishes from all for the next round. Congratulations also to Pearse Maginnis who recorded a hole-in-one at the 16th last Monday. Speaking to Pearse he said his only regret was that Micheal McCreesh was not in the club house as he would loved to have bought him a brandy!!
Forgot to check to see what next weeks competition is but I think it is a Single Stableford, however do check the notice-board just to be on the safe side.
Member Eugene McCullagh is sidelined due to injury at the moment so best wishes to him for a speed y recovery from the Captain and members.
On behalf of the Captain and members sincere sympathy is expressed to popular member Joe Kindlon on his recent bereavement.
Monday 1st April 2013
At Last!
I t was with some relief that Captain Con McParland handed over his Drive-In prizes on Sunday, just three weeks after his glorious Drive off the first Tee-box.
Despite the still artic cold conditions there was practically a full turn out of members to contest what turned out to be a keenly fought contest. It was one of the early brigade Gerard Roe who set the pace as he returned a net 63 and despite good returns from Niall Watters, Philip Hughes, Collie Stuttard and Michael Smith it seemed that Gerard’s would be a winning score. However, the penultimate group contained a certain Mattie Rice and he was able to return a net 62 to pip Gerard and take his first Major prize at Ashfield.
The full result was: 1ST Mattie Rice: 2nd Gerard Roe: Gross Micheal Smith: Category 1 Niall Watters: Category 2 Philip Hughes: Senior Prize John Murphy: Nines Collie Stuttard and Noel Nugent.
Con also presented the Senior Juvenile prize to Cathal Simpson. Cathal also picked up his prize for a Single Stableford won a couple of weeks ago in the Mens category. At least one good golfer in the Simpson family! Other prizes went to Joe Kindlon, Pearse Maginnis and the Three man Scramble team of Brendan and Padraig Murphy and Aidan McKeown.
On behalf of the members Con also made a presentation of 600 euro to Marie Rushe representing the local Lourdes Committee.
Next weekends competition is a Four-Ball Better-Ball format and the winners will go forward to represent Ashfield in a GUI Ulster competition. This might well be Micheal McCreesh (well it is the first April)
Monday 25th March 2013
Anyone for Skiing?
The weather is certainly playing havoc to the start of the 2013 season and once again Con’s Drive-in competition had to be cancelled this weekend. The plan is to have another go at it on Sunday 31st March although looking at the long term forecast I would not be betting too much, even of someone else’s, money on it taking place.
However we will remain positive and although it is Easter Sunday lets hope all members will be able to participate. The presentation of prizes will take place immediately after the final group comes in so you will all be able to get home to make the dinner, or even better take the family up to the restaurant for lunch.
Presuming the weather does improve there will also be an Easter competition over Saturday and Monday.
A reminder to members to register their names for the Fred Daly and Doubles match-play competitions.
As the clock goes forward next weekend I believe the plan is to get the Wednesday Cup competition up and running on the 10th April.
I have not been talking to Damien or Gareth recently but I presume Juvenile coaching will continue next Saturday.
I apologies for the lack of notes recently but as you know there has been very little golf and I am so reluctant to make anything up!!
Monday 11th March 2013
Snow causes early end to Con’s Drive-In
As is the tradition Captain Con McParland got his Drive-In of to an excellent start as using the Micheal Rock Driver he found the centre of the first Fairway. Unfortunately this was the highlight of the day as three holes later the competition had to be abandoned for the day as a heavy fall of snow soon covered both fairways and greens. This was very disappointing as there was an excellent turn out of members eagerly awaiting the first Major of the 2013 season.
Later on the snow did clear and as to be expected the hardier members were out to try and improve the swing for the 24th March when hopefully the weather will allow the Drive-In to be completed.
Next Sunday there will be a Three-Man-Scramble for anyone who is not parading or attending some other celebratory function.
There was an excellent turn out on Saturday for the Juvenile competition and the winners of the two categories were Cathal Simpson and Eoin Reel. I will supply the full result next week. A reminder that juvenile coaching will take place next Saturday morning and any newcomers will be very welcome.
Members should take note that the entry forms for thee Fred Daly and Doubles Match-play are on the notice-board so make sure your name is on—don’t rely on anyone else putting your name down—remember Thomas!!
See you all on the 24th. Maths question, whats the difference between 50 and 6. If your not sure check with Darren McCann!!
Monday 4th March 2013
Excellent Turn Out For Captain’s Drive-In Test Run
This weekend saw a Single Stroke competition and the big turn out of members was an indication that all are keen to get the 2013 season off to a flying start next Sunday.
With ideal weather conditions there were some excellent scores returned including ones from Gary Loughran, Kieran Simpson, Micky McShane, Gerry Fegan, and Captain Con McParland. However it seemed that the excellent return of net 62 would ensure that Aidan Carragher would triumph until the last group returned and it was young Cathal Simpson who just edged out Aidan finishing on the same score but with a superior back nine. The quality of golf this weekend should ensure a fantastic Captains-Drive-In next Sunday. A reminder that Con, Paul and Seamus will commence the day at 7.30 and hopefully the weather will remain kind. I suggest that it will be a good bet that the winner will appear from the list of names above but if not then Malachy O’Rourke or Gareth Mcloughlin could take the first prize of the season.
There have been very positive reports of the recent Spanish trip and I believe the overall winner was Thomas Hughes who just edged out Eugene McCooey by a couple of points. Drive of the week went to Michael Savage who managed to hit a 200 yarder but still played his second from the same tee box. Don’t ask me haw-must have been the Spanish sun!
There will be a Committee meeting this Wednesday commencing at 9.00pm sharp and all outstanding monies for the Nite @ the Races should be returned for this meeting.
A reminder to members that Club member-ship fees must be paid on or before next Sunday to allow entry into the Drive –In.
Congratulations to St Paul’s Bessbrook on reaching the McRory Cup final and they will have all our support on Finals Day.
Monday 25th February 2013
Kenny secures “Ryder” Cup Victory
Kenny Murphy ensured that his Sourthern half of the club won the inaugural “Ryder” Cup as last weekends singles came down to the last match and although the “Northern” Captain Michael McCreesh did his best by beating opposing Captain Kenny it was the victory of Michael Smith over fellow Camlough man Eugene McCullagh that swung the tie in the favour of Kenny’s team. Yes even I can not work out how two Camlough men were on opposing teams. Anyhow it was a great competition and ensured that over £500.00 will be going to a very worthy charity. The presentation will be made during the Captains Drive-In presentation.
Next weekends competition will be a Singles Stroke-Play and this should ensure that members will be in tune for Con’s Drive in the following week. As is traditional Con will drive off with Secretary Paul McCann and Vice- Captain Seamus McNulty although I am not sure that Con is happy with the driving of Seamus after what happened a few weeks ago. No more to be said in-case the Insurance company gets involved (lets see if the Reporter prints this).
Next Saturday night will see the annual Nite@ the races commencing around 9.30 and I would ask all members and friends to turn up and support this event.
This weekends competition was a Singles Stable-ford and Crossmaglen man Joe Kindlon and and Camlough’s Pearse Magiinis tied with 42 points each. I really think Joe should give it to the old man who may never be in this position again. What do you think Mattie?
A reminder to all members that Club Membership must be paid before competing in the Captain’s Drive In. I will be available next Sunday and also on the morning of the Drive- In to collect same.
The annual trip to Spain has been going on this week and early reports suggest that Thomas Hughes and “ Curly” Murphy have been the stars of the trip but I will give you more details next week. Kieran Simpson has promised to give me all the details!! Yes not even Caroline would believe that!!
Monday 11th February 2013
Apologies for the brief notes this week but need to have them sent early.
Committee meeting takes place in the Club House this Wednesday night and it would be appreciated if the horses/sponsorship for The Nite@ The Races are available for this meeting.
The weather for the Singles of Jim’s Cup was not very kind but still the hardy got out there to support the Captains. I will give a complete breakdown next time but some of the early results in proved rather interesting.
Kieran Simpson suffered a shock 7-6 defeat to Pearse Maginnis and by the same score-line Michael Smith defeated Gerry Fegan. Mattie Rice had a somewhat easy 5 and 4 victory over Gareth McLoughlin while the biggest shock of the early morning was the 6 and 5 victory of Rodney Quinn over Thomas Hughes. In the clash of the Captains I heard that Michael McCreesh was five up on Kenny Murphy after seven holes. Must go now as I see two moons in the sky and a flock of pigs flying overhead,
A reminder to all members from Handicap Convenor Malachy that the updated handicaps are now posted on the notice-board. All members need to check this as there have been changes resulting from the annual review audit.
Monday 4th February 2013
The eagerly awaited President Jim’s Ryder Cup format competition got under way last weekend with a Four-ball- Better-Ball format. After the first Sunday it was Michael McCreesh’s Northern side of the County who held a very slender lead. This weekend the format changed to a Foursomes style and this time it was the Southern boys under Kenny Murphy who managed to turn things around. There was an excellent turn out for this competition and some of the results that I have to hand are:
Tom Rushe/Kieran Watters had a 4-2 win over Michael McMahon/Kevin O’Neill
Kevin Donnelly/Joe Kindlon were victorious over Paul McCann/Rodney Quinn by 4-3
Jim McLoughlin/Raymond Murphy triumphed by 3-2 over Gareth McLoughlin/Con McParland
Christy O’Brien/Larry Crilly had a one hole victory over Kieran Bellew and Ruarai Murchen
Gary Loughran/Cathal Simpson had a 5-4 win over the unlucky pairing of Paul Kelly/Michael McShane
Aidan Carragher/Mattie Rice proved to strong for the gerry Fegan/Thomas Hughes pairing
Father and son partnership of Kieran and Francis Simpson had to settle for a half match against Michael Smith/Pearse Maginnis (yes I’m back)
Darren McCann/Wayne McClenaghan proved too strong for Kevin McCauley/Philip Hughes, winning 5-4
In the Captains tie Michael McCreesh and partner Eugene McCullagh had a two hole advantage over Kenny Murphy/Jim Malone.
Delighted to see that Eugene McCullagh won his game as he currently is feeling very hard done by as it would seem that the only competition he thought he won last year had been cancelled. Not to worry Eugene good times are ahead.
Ruairi Murchen claimed that he finished his round with the ball he started with. From reports of the number of shots hit by Ruarai and Kieran of the 15th Tee-Box I think he must have nipped down the road and retrieved it from somewhere well of the course!!
There had been some discussion about extending the competition from three to five weeks but the majority of those participating agreed that the original three week format should be adhered to and therefore it will finish next week with the singles format (weather permitting). Mattie wants all participants to be in the club house for an 8.15 draw.
There will be a Time-sheet up next weekend for the Captains Drive-In so make sure you get your name on to ensure participation.
It would seem that the Nite@ the Races will take place on the first Friday of March so all names and horse to be in for the Committee meeting of Wednesday 13th February.
A reminder that the Four-Person Scramble in aid of the Crossmaglen team’s training fund will take place on Friday 8th February (any time) and Saturday 9th with a shotgun start at 9.15. Members are asked to give their support to this event.
Monday 21st January 2013
(S)No(w) Golf
For the first time all season 2012 inclement weather resulted in no golf this past weekend, although I do believe some members managed to find a playable course within Co Armagh.
Last weekends competition was won by Eugene McCullagh who returned an excellent 38 points.
Weather permitting we will be able to get the Ryder Cup format competition up and running next Sunday, I for one (perhaps the only one) believe that President Jim knows the format!!
Don’t forget the Nite @ the Races and any Tee-box sponsorship details should be forwarded to any Committee member, preferably for the February meeting. I know times are difficult but all members are asked to play their part.
With Crossmaglen Rangers well on the way to retaining the All-Ireland title Donal Murtagh has arranged a Fund raiser at Ashfield on the 8th/9th of February. The format will be a Four Person Scramble, £100 (e120) per team. Teams may play at any time on the Friday(8th) but there will be a shotgun start on Saturday 9th at 9.30. Crossmaglen Rangers are excellent sporting ambassadors for the South Armagh area so I would ask all members and friends to support this event. To enter a team or get further information contact Donal Murtagh or the Club-House.
Monday 14th January 2013
Happy New year To All
Despite all the rain this past few months course conditions have remained very good and members have had an uninterrupted golfing winter. The winners over the past couple of weeks have been a combination of the old and the new with Adrian McEntaggart and John Murphy coming out on top. Garry O’Hare and Gerry Fegan took second place to reinforce the belief that they will once again bethe ones to watch during 2013.
Competition Convenor Mattie Rice is currently drawing up the programme of competitions for the season so members are asked to seek out anyone who is prepared to sponsor a Tee-Box/Competition for the forthcoming season—open to newspapers as well!!
A reminder to all members that President Jim McLoughlin’s Ryder Cup format competition will commence on the weekend of 27th January, fee is £10 and all funds will go to the Red Bus Charity Crossmaglen. This is a very worthy cause so members are asked to join in this fun competition—a great chance for the fair weather golfers to get their swing back in action. Also a great opportunity for new members to get involved in competitive golf.
Finance Convenor Micheal Savage is currently drawing up plans for a Nite @ The Races fund raiser, hopefully early in march so again members are asked to purchase a horse for this event as this is always an important early season fund raiser. As soon as a date is set I will let you know and hopefully we will have full support as we are once again getting a coach to work with our juveniles through 2013. These youngsters are the future of our club so lets all support the fund raising events.
Good to see many new members, including some ex members rejoining and this should ensure a very competitive season on the course. Will give my list of ones to watch for in 2013 next week, so if you want to avoid getting the curse of the PRO you know what you must do—buy a horse of me!!