All 25 teams set off in dry conditions as it was a beautifully sunny start to the day. The weather broke at lunch time and some brollies were necessary in the afternoon. It did not depress the enthusiasm to return to Coxmoor again next year, and I already have several requests to rebook teams in as soon as I can confirm the date.
With 100 players it was a busy day for me. Unfortunately, it meant I did not have time to go out in the rain to take photographs (well, that's my excuse anyway).
The course welcomed the rain. Although the bedrock of Sherwood sandstone produces this wonderful heathland, lined with majestic pine trees, it is also very quick draining, which means that after a prolonged dry, hot spring, when the grass is growing at its fastest rate, the course can easily burn.
The greens were clearly in good condition as 14 two's were recorded, necessitating a re-stock of the wine cellar for next week.
John O'Callaghan sent a team of three able-bodied young men under the captaincy of Teetours debutant Yoni Abou (2). They were joined by 5-handicapper Ryan Cottingham, who made a valuable contribution of 21 points to the team. Star of their show however was Yoni, who put 35 points on as well as winning the Best Gross with a 72. Dave Willmore (+2.2) also recorded a gross 72 but lost out by one shot on a count-back.
Special thanks go to all those who stepped in during the last few days to make up the teams and numbers.
Spraying champagne on the crowd from the top of this week's podium were Chris Hobbs (11.1), his daughter Kerry (9.8), Darron Henn (5.7) and Ray Jakeman (9.1).
Prize presentation, from the Tee Tours archive.
A note on card marking
A reminder for the Am-Am format: there are only two scores to count. It is not an individual competition day. If you cannot better the team score, do not putt out; all you are doing is slowing down the field. One of the best-marked cards of the day came from Ryan Cottingham.