A superb day of golf, camaraderie, sunshine… and a well earned trophy for the ODs.
The annual West Surrey Triangular Match is always a highlight of the ODGS calendar, and once again the day was expertly orchestrated thanks to the dedication and quiet influence of Tony Robin and David Burt (representing the Old Eastbournians). As longstanding members of West Surrey Golf Club, their behind‑the‑scenes work ensures this prestigious fixture runs seamlessly year after year. Our thanks go to them both for delivering yet another outstanding event.
Tony’s persuasive charm also paid dividends in team recruitment, successfully encouraging Rob Secrett to return to the ODGS fold after a long absence. As a West Surrey member—and living only a short stroll from the clubhouse—Rob was perfectly placed to join us. His experience and steady play were a real asset, and we hope he enjoyed the day enough to make future appearances a little easier to secure.
This year saw a change in format, moving from the traditional combined Stableford scoring to a four‑ball better‑ball match, a decision that proved hugely enjoyable and added a fresh competitive edge to the day.
We were blessed with glorious weather too. Thursday delivered warm sunshine and perfect playing conditions—an especially welcome contrast to the torrential downpours that soaked the course the day before.
The ODs rose to the occasion magnificently, bringing their ‘A’ game to West Surrey and securing the Foresail Trophy with a well‑deserved victory: ODs – 2½ points | Opponents – 1½ points
Congratulations to our winning pairs:
- Charlie Scott & Richard Robinson
- Tony Robin & Mark Rumble
- Rob Secrett & Jarle Tatt
A special mention must go to John Hardy, who produced several thunderous drives and a collection of beautifully judged putts to keep our OE opponents, John & Colin, under pressure throughout. Sadly, my own attempts to dovetail were less successful—my putter apparently taking the day off at crucial moments. I have now requested Michael Walter’s essential manual: “How to Confidently Line Up Your Fourth Putt.” One can only hope it comes with pictures.
The spirit of the day was perfectly captured in a post‑round moment between John and Tony (one of our OE opponents), both smiling broadly—proof that the match was played in exactly the right spirit: competitive, friendly, and thoroughly enjoyable.
We rounded off the afternoon with West Surrey’s famously generous finger buffet, which was, as ever, demolished with enthusiasm by three hungry teams.
Once again, our sincere thanks go to Tony Robin and David Burt for organising and hosting this cherished annual event. Their commitment ensures the Triangular Match remains one of the most enjoyable fixtures of the ODGS season.
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