Golfers enjoy ‘measured social interaction’…

By Casey O'Connor

Although Saturday competition Golf in Stanthorpe has been continuing during the past few weeks albeit under some strong restrictions, Sunday Sporters have been hibernating. Unlike bears, I’m sure they have been waiting for it to get a little chillier before testing the golfing waters and social distancing restrictions and emerging from their slumber.

Last Sunday on a chilly morning, a dedicated group of Sporters had a trial run in an effort to decide on a format for the coming weeks as social distancing restrictions are relaxed.

To comply with Stanthorpe Golf Club rules tee off next Sunday and for the immediate future will be 7.30am. There will be no presentation following the round and winners will receive their prizes the following week. Organisers are hoping to see all the regular suspects back on the green. Perhaps even some new faces will be encouraged to get some fresh air and exercise while enjoying some measured social interaction while chasing a little white ball around the course. Any newcomers will be most welcome.

In last Sunday’s round, it was Terry Byrnes who returned in the best form to claim a win. Runner up was Ivan Jurris while Terry Roser, Marg Locke and Ray Thorn figured in the run downs.

GOOD FIELDS RELISH OPPORTUNITY FOR SATURDAY GOLF…

Another good field teed off in Saturday’s men’s and ladies’ competitions at the Stanthorpe Golf course as golfers relished the opportunity to once again get on the course. Once again golfers found themselves playing in pairs and adhering to strict social distancing guidelines which did not prevent some players returning excellent scores. It certainly appears that many keen golfers using have been putting in plenty of practice during this period of isolation.

Trevor Ludlow’s score of 40 points was good enough to hand him a win in the men’s competition after a very even round of saw him score 20 points on both the front and back nine. Paul Mills finished just one shot back on 39 to secure the runner’s up prize. Included in the rundown in the men’s comp were Wes Smith (37), Ken Hinze (37) and Brendan Barker (36).

Mandy Benussi grabbed a win in the Ladies event after she and Racheal Hendry each returned a score of 36 points. Mandy got the nod after the count back with Racheal settling for runner up on this occasion. The run down went to Lyn Ludlow with 35 points.

To ensure golf meets the strong social distancing requirements in place players are urged to use the time sheet on the board at the clubhouse to secure a time slot for next Saturday’s Stableford event. Early morning or afternoon time slots are available and there is a definite cut off point. If players are unable to visit the club please email the club to arrange your time slot.