There is a feeling of magnificence as you turn off the road and onto the drive that winds between the holes of this beautiful parkland course and the perfectly proportioned, white, Georgian clubhouse comes into view. Straight away you get the feeling you are in for a treat.
This was only our second visit to Shifnal and I know it will not be our last because everybody enjoyed the course; especially the high quality greens which were cut and ironed just before we played. Wendy was busy with breakfasts and the initial early rain subsided to produce a sunny day with only the odd short shower that did not detract from the enjoyment.
There were quite a number who had not played here before and quite a few Teetours virgins. I am grateful to all those who stepped in to make up teams.
Peter Dawson sent a message of desperation last week as he only had two players; that was until his mates decided to finally read their emails and then he had two teams. However, rounding them all up, to be at the club for their appointed time, required skills rarely seen outside the ring at a sheepdog trial - well done Peter!
Following a domination of the podium at Edgbaston by Alan McPeake and the Uttoxeter Travellers, there were a lot of bottles to be taken back and distributed to those not playing at Shifnal. The job was entrusted to Lindsay Rowley but there is a rumour that he spent the night in a lay-by just outside Rugeley and hasn't woken up yet!
Matt Hickman's team included big-hitting Jack Clemson who butchered the longest drive on 15 and helped his team to a count back 5th place. Dave Roger's team were 4th. Podium positions went to teams under the stewardship of Geoff Davies, Martin Dunn and the ever jovial Merry Hopton.
