The Inaugural Cricketer Cup Golf Trophy Competition
On Sunday 5th October, Denham Golf Club played host to the inaugural Cricketer Cup Golf Trophy Competition. The event was the idea of Ian Hodgson (Oundle) and Frank Russell (Repton), both of whom are members at Denham. Their idea was to initiate a competition for cricketers, who have represented their respective Cricketer Cup teams, who play golf. The plan, in the first year, was to start with a sub-set of the 32 Cricketer Cup schools and if deemed a success add further teams over time. The field comprised 10 teams (of 4 players) and were, in alphabetical order: Ampleforth, Bradfield, Charterhouse, Eton, Marlborough, Merchant Taylors’, Oundle, Radley, Repton, and Shrewsbury.
The OMT Society and The OMT Golf Society both gave their support to OMT entering a team in the competition.
Opening the batting for OMT were Steve Ducat (1977-82, handicap 7) and Mike Lupton (1972-77, handicap 12), with Johnnie Hampel (1981-1988, handicap 2) and Martin Johnson (1958-63, handicap 17) at three and four. The format was a foursome’s stableford with each pair getting shots equal to half of their combined handicap.
A stunning autumn day greeted the teams as they assembled on the terrace (with WAGS!) at Denham GC around noon for pre-lunch drinks. David Cust (Captain of OMTGS) and his better half joined to offer McGinley-like words of inspiration, and to check that our wine glasses were suitably charged.
After an excellent lunch (as ever at Denham), the OMTs marched out to the 3rd hole, their assigned starting tee. The 3rd hole at Denham is a tough start with Out of Bounds on both sides. After Lupton’s first tee shot disappeared out of bounds there were concerns on all OMT faces that this might prove to be a long afternoon. However, both OMT pairs, rallied to play like “cornered tigers”, striking it cleanly down the ground on most holes and nudging in single putts on numerous occasions. Ducat’s timing was as sublime as ever and Lupton’s long handled pulls seemed to miss most bushes. Johnson hardly missed a fairway and Hampel chipped in where necessary. Overall, the OMT combined score was 66 ½ points.
The teams reconvened in the bar for the prize-giving by Andrew Strauss (Radley and England). Ampleforth were the first year winners, but OMT came a very creditable second. Invite secured for next year!
Everyone who took part in the competition agreed that it was a great success – suitably competitive and fun and so should become a firm fixture. I am told the field will be 16 teams in 2015.
We look forward to next year. Anyone interested in being considered for selection should contact Philip Newfield, OMT Cricketer Cup Team Manager, or Johnnie Hampel.
