O.C.G.S. MEETING at FILTON GOLF CLUB on 10th JULY 2022

The Summer Meeting marked a return to Filton Golf Club, after at least six years since our last visit.

     An immediate observation was a significant development near the clubhouse, which transpired to be vast deposits of topsoil from a nearby substantial building programme, which will progressively fund an updated driving range and a Par 3 course.     It will also ensure the continuing viability of this popular members club, founded in 1909.

     A further potential bonus, with the major transition of the nearby Brabazon/Concorde Hangar into a vast concert hall, is that members may soon be able to listen live to the Rolling Stones, Adele, and other top names, for free!

A drink, a bacon bap, and a chat, on the pleasant patio, preceded the first three–ball teeing off at 1 p.m., in very warm conditions, with a mild breeze offsetting the heat, certainly on the higher locations.

     Numbers were slightly down, as a result of many regulars joining the nationwide catch up on holidays, after the Pandemic restrictions of the last two years.     Nonetheless, 12 enthusiastic members keenly braved the temperatures,

The fairways and greens were in top condition.  A number of enhancements over recent years have consolidated Filton as a very pleasant parkland course with a range of interesting and challenging holes.

       Of particular note are the Stroke Index 1, Par 4, 7th, with a tricky dog leg right, rising to an elevated tiered green.      Also, the drop hole Par 3, 11th, followed by the 12th, a steep return uphill to a blind green.      There are two long Par 5s, the 5th. and 14th., and as an assault on tiring limbs, particularly on a very hot day, the 17th. and 18th. are both long Par 4s, substantially uphill on the return to the clubhouse.

        Surprisingly, the course was very quiet, creating the atmosphere of a private venue, and permitting a relaxed and unpressurised round.

At the clubhouse, an urgent need to re-hydrate( Ashton Press highly recommended ), a quick discussion on the day’s achievements, and Bob Jennings diligently analysing the scorecards, preceded the Chef ( Chris, an old friend from the Kendleshire ) advising that Dinner was served.

    Filton always had a reputation for good and plentiful fare, and the generous portions of fries, mixed veg. and a steak pie which drew accolades from our north country player (they know a good pie up north!) Wayne Marks, confirmed standards were being upheld. This was followed by apple crumble and custard.

Before the prize giving, Dave Tooze alluded to the esteem in which past members/ absent friends are held, many having gone into O.C.G.S. folklore, as epitomised by the Briffett Cup. 

  The recent demise of regular stalwart and former captain Keith Watts had been a complete shock, as he had been in good form in April at Carlyon Bay.  Keith was a hugely popular Colston’s master, colleague, friend, and O.C.G.S. member, who will be very much missed.    The members rose and toasted Keith and his memory.     The Headmaster will be announcing details, in due course, of a remembrance/ celebration of Keith’s life, to be held in the Autumn.

Dave then welcomed everyone.   In addition to our top regulars, we were delighted that Sam and Pat Bowrey had travelled up from Cornwall.  Pat is due for knee operations shortly, and the best wishes of all at the O.C.G.S. are extended for a rapid and successful outcome.  We were also pleased to see the trio of Chris Wells, Jeremy Davis, and Wayne Marks, who had last been in action at last years’ Cumberwell Meeting.     As an added bonus, Verity (Andy Thomas’ charming wife) was able to join us for Dinner.

PRIZE  WINNERS  were—

1st. Gross                               Pat Bowrey

1st.  Net                                  Richard Hibberd

1st.  Stableford                      Sam Bowrey 

Nearest the Pin (9th)            Richard Hibberd 

Other members attending  –  Mike Brown,  Jeremy Davis,  Bob Jennings,  Wayne Marks,   Clyde Paris,  Andy Thomas,  Dave Tooze,,  Steve Tucker,  and  Chris Wells.

We were, again, hugely indebted to Bob Jennings, and Steve Tucker for setting up the event and ensuring it’s precision running.   Bob also stood in for Doug Lodge (on holiday) as official photographer, albeit with a mobile phone camera, as opposed to Doug’s professional equipment.

Key forthcoming dates are the Autumn O.C.G.S. Meeting at Cumberwell Park on the 2nd October, followed by the Annual Dinner on the 22nd October (revised date) Both are “not to be missed “events.

Dave Tooze