Sunningdale 2024
After cancelling the first three events of the season, as a result of the record levels of rain since last December, It was a pleasure for all to stand on dry fairways, responsive greens and all round beauty.
On day one we played the Red course at the Berkshire. I think it is unique in its layout of 6 par 3’s; 6 par 4’s and 6 par 5’s. As far as England in April was concerned it was probably also unique in its condition and presentation - Faultlessly immaculate. In fact, it was so good that a light drizzle for a couple of hours went unnoticed by everyone.
Day two was the full Sunningdale experience. This was summed up perfectly by my old school friend Alan Swift (who, in keeping with the rest of the car park, arrived in his beautiful, navy-blue Aston). Alan walked round the corner of the clubhouse terrace, to take in his first view of Sunningdale - his reaction “WOW!”
I did receive one or two complaints about the food at Sunningdale - there was too much of it (A luxury problem, not currently being experienced in all parts of the world)
I felt desperately sorry for Graham Lunn and his playing partner Duncan Thorpe. Duncan has worked for Graham for 30 years and become a good friend. As a thank you for his loyalty of service and friendship, Graham paid for Duncan’s trip. They also booked an extra night on the Sunday, to avoid an early start and the drive down from Derbyshire on Monday morning.
I caught up with them in the bar on Sunday evening. Duncan looked proper poorly and was suffering from a serious flu infection that even a couple of brandies couldn’t alleviate. Duncan spent the next two days in bed; too ill to even eat anything! I played as Grahams partner for the next two days (and that is why I felt sorry for him as well). Graham and Duncan will come to Sunningdale later this summer as my guests to redress the balance.
Apart from the usual prizes, I awarded a bottle to my old friend John Kidney, who played the first hole on Sunningdale Old perfectly; good drive, perfect fairway-wood to the green and one putt for an Eagle. One which I know will remain in his memory for as long as he has got one (he is very old ????)
Hugh McLean deserves a mention as he brilliantly organised his twelve man group from Lutterworth - on their third ‘Trip of a lifetime’. And never mind the Aston Martin brigade - the real way to arrive at Sunningdale is in your works van with all your mates golf clubs in - Well done Toby Deas.
If anyone else would like to join in, this event will be on the calendar next April.
