On the 12th June weekend the Northants Chamber 20th Year invitation to Captain’s weekend took place at the beautiful Thorpeness Hotel and Golf Club in Suffolk.
Vice Captain Andy Cockerill, Cave and Son, pre-booked the glorious sunshine for this outstanding annual location by the sea with the famous ‘House in the Clouds’ as the backdrop to the 1st and 18th holes.
Playing for 3 days for two prestigious trophies - the Stanair Shield and T&K Cup - the Friday afternoon Pairs competition was won by Duncan Webster, 1PCS & Martin Wall of Stanair with 36 points. Special mention to Jason ‘Big Boy’ Brice of the Redwood Partnership for his 320 yard longest drive!
Over a fabulous dinner of local seafood and wine the Best Dressed Man Award went to Doug ‘ my favourite shot ‘ Iles of Dunham Law for his green chequered shorts, pinky red shirt, cap with matching socks and would you believe a pink ball – one of many firsts at this Thorpeness Captains weekend!
A special toast was made to Paul Tudor, Underwoods Commercial, ex-Captain, great friend and supporter of Chamber Golf who due to health reasons was unable to make this year – a speedy recovery to you from all your friends chap!
Saturday’s Pairs winners with 32 on count back were Mike ‘clear the room’ Willis and ‘Big Boy’ Brice. Keith Panter, Moore Stephens, and John ‘last minute.com’ Pearson of the Northants Golf Union were just behind on 31.
The afternoon relaxation time saw many hit the beach, bar or snooker while a unique pairing evolved with Duncan Webster rowing Keith Turner, Turner Coulston around the boating lake – referred to by many as a romantic ‘Owl and the Pussycat’ moment amongst other unprintable references (pictures are available on request).
Sunday arrived with a hangover for some but with everyone still in with a shout of both trophies. Wheels came off early for Captain Thorpe of Thorpeness, Turner, Richings, Hooper (2008 Winner) as Iles gave an inspiring front nine to rise from the ashes at the bottom of the leader board and make a late challenge. Unfortunately this challenge collapsed on the 10th!
The T&K Cup saw great play from Michael Markham, Chamber 2009 Spring Competition Winner, who lost out by one point to new member and T&K Cup Winner Mike Willis, The Business Club, with 34 points!
The Stanair Shield, based on all 3 rounds, went to the wire with Brice 3rd (95 points), Vice Captain Cockerill 2nd (96 points) and Martin Wall, Shire Security, with 97 points and the stunning Stanair Shield and prizes!
Many magic moments on and off the course made for a very special 20th Captain’s weekend - a true pleasure to be a part of. A BIG THANKYOU to all who played and I look forward to your company next year.
Thanks,
Jon Thorpe
acs office solutions
Chamber Captain
P.S. If you play golf and want to join in the Northants Chamber Society we’d be delighted to welcome you. Joining is FREE, email Lisa Ross at lisar@acs365.co.uk and we’ll send you the details.
