We were indeed fortunate that the weather held off for our match against Rutland Water. Earlier in the season, the members of Rutland Water had suggested that their course was in quite a lot of trouble and was struggling with the early season dry weather, however when this match came up the course had much improved. The fairways had certainly recovered and the greens were in a good condition. Very well done to Rutland Water ground staff.
Arguably the good state of the course was the only major positive Burghley Park could take out of this fixture. Four of the matches were over before the 16th tee was reached. The only positives were the halves achieved by Tim Chapman and Peter Hickman and Mark Hotchkin and Pip Kirby, so very well played to them.
In my match, Richard Cook played exceptionally well, but it was not enough against Chris Mallon and Bill King Smith. Chris and Bill combined brilliantly to finish with a better ball score of three over gross, a 75. Captain Chris in fact had an 82 including a seven at the difficult part three. Richard and I were beaten easily but on glancing at the scores after the match I realised that we had had a better ball score 6 under our Par. Richard had indeed played well, including a birdie at one of the Par fives, but we won only 2 holes.
Nearest the pin for Burghley was Peter Steele and Mike Martin for the hosts
I have no doubt that local knowledge at Rutland Water and experience of playing the course helps considerably.
The conversation in the clubhouse after the match was extremely convivial and I think everybody had a most enjoyable day certainly George playing with an old friend Robin Old was a highlight as was one of our opponents buying several bottles of white wine!
Paul
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