Another very cold night necessitated five minutes defrosting the car, before leaving for Hollinwell at 7am on Monday. Sunshine was quick to make an appearance but the temperature was only 4.0c when I arrived to find a good covering of frost and the course on temporary greens.
Much of the course sits in a natural bowl and the cold air rolls down and lingers. Fortunately, the sun did its job well and the main greens were open at 9.30 ready for our 10am start.
Yet again, a good number of players were visiting for the first time and it's always a joy to witness their reaction both before and after playing it. The wow-factor is always found there. North of Sunningdale and South of the Scottish border you will not stand on a finer inland course than Hollinwell.
Since Teetours first visit to Hollinwell, it has been a pleasure to deal with Martyn Bonner - a more professional club manager would be hard to find. Martyn retires later this year and I only hope the committee overlooks the youth of Martyn's assistant Oliver, and gives him full consideration as a worthy replacement.
