2014

Spring Outing gets the Season underway

A murky, wet morning gave way to some very pleasant sunny weather for the start of the Station Master’s Spring Outing over the re-configured Buddon course. A buggie-less Captain Campbell enlisted the help of Secretary Coutie as substitute team captain who went on to narrowly cuff Vice Captain Simpson’s team by 5¹/₂ matches to 1¹/₂ and too many holes up to remember. Winner of the ‘Prestigious Yellow Jecket’ was young Garry Clark with a nett 66. Runner up was Norman Reid and 3rd place was shared by Brian Morton and Andy Gilbride. Nearest the hole was Andy Gilbride and longest drive was Sandy Norrie. Winner of the magnificent ‘Beg of Tetties’ for the worst player on the day was Former Vice Captain, Captain Holland with a disgraceful nett 118. Many than
ks to the Station Hotel for a lovely post-match meal and thanks to all who donated prizes.

 

Masters away-day outing to Kirriemuir

A small, but hardy group of members made their way to Kirriemuir last week for our annual away-day outing. An overcast start to the day soon gave way to brilliant sunshine. Individual winner on the day was the ever-popular Andy Gilbride who also picked-up the ‘nearest-the-pin’ prize. Andy attributed his win to concentrating so hard, he was able to completely ignore his fellow team mate Peter Phinn through-out the round. Winners of the team award went to Neil Holland, Peter Phinn, John Jeans and Andy Gilbride. Winner of the ‘longest drive’ was the youthful Garry Clark. Once again, organiser Peter Coutie, did a splendid job in organising the day out, which if the truth be told, virtually organised itself!

If you fancy seeing some moving pictures then please click on the following link courtesy of Former Vice Captain, Captain Holland

http://youtu.be/k03kNw4fQTU

                        Gilbride and organiser Coutie

                        Highly dodgy team

Jessica wins St Rule Trophy at the Old Course

Former Station Masters Club Champion, Jessica Meek has scored the biggest win of her career when she defeated Aaelle Carnet of France at the 3rd hole of a sudden-death play-off in the St Rule Trophy final over The Old Course at St Andrews. Jessica has just completed the first year of her course at the University of Missouri, and is back for some well-deserved R & R at home in Carnoustie. Jessica’s part-time caddie and dad, Dave Meek has spoken of nothing else at Station Masters HQ since Jess’s win, claiming he was instrumental in the victory. Reports that the match would never have gone to the 3rd extra hole had Jess had a more professional caddie on her bag, are said to be wide of the mark!

WELL DONE JESS – FROM ALL AT THE CLUB!

Jess with St Rule Trophy on the Swilcan Bridge.

Large turnout for Annual Christmas Texas Scramble

Early morning day after Boxing Day drizzle over the Buddon Course, failed to dampen the spirits of the 27 or so annual Texas Scramble competitors who turned out. In fact, the first tee-off time heralded the winter sun and what turned out to be a positively ‘balmy’ day. A closely fought tournament saw the best gross team score prize lifted by an unlikely combination comprising Club Champion David Morton, his old-man Brian, Arthur Smith and Dave Ritchie. Best gross team score on the day went unsurprisingly to the very talented Jessica Meek, her talented lad Stuart Burke and the mediocre Andy Gilbride. After the golf was out of the way, it was back to the Club for peh, chips and beans courtesy of the Station Hotel followed by a very competitive games afternoon of Pool and Dominoes which saw Nor Reid ( AKA Greentractorman), lift the Pool title and Captain Simpson wipe the floor in the Dominoes. The gay, sporting atmosphere was somewhat marred by an unsavoury incident earlier in the day when one of the teams, comprising serial trouble-makers (who shall remain nameless), submitted an erroneous scorecard claiming to have shot a birdie at nearly every hole! Luckily our obsessive organiser and score-card checker, Brian Morton spotted the blatant ruse and the ‘swicks’ were relegated to last position. As you are aware we never ‘name and shame’ members involved in such devious stunts, but if you want to know the identity of the culprits.  All-in-all a good start to the new year!

Worthy winners: Nett – Smith, Morton, Morton, Ritchie. Gross – Meek, Gilbride, Burke.

 

 Even worthier winners: Pool – Reid, Bones – Capt Simpson.

Annual dinner and presentation of trophies

 The Station Masters GC Annual Dinner and Presentation of Trophies was held last Friday evening in the Station Hotel. Club members, along with guests from the Caledonia, Dalhousie and Mercantile golf clubs and the Panmure Business Club, enjoyed an evening of food, wine and comedy …. oh and the trophies were presented aswell and I never won anything again! MC for the event was Vice Captain Davie who regaled the audience with his usual brand of satire, wit and repartee. Unfortunately Elliot’s new Rod Hull ‘prop’ a poor man’s Emu, met with a sticky end after it kept squawking in the wrong places! (see Latest News in Pictures). Guest speakers Matt Patterson and Frank Murray from Arbroath rounded off the evening in hilarious fashion.

I suppose we’ll have to report on who won what so here goes …. By the way, if we’ve heard once about all Coutie’s prizes we’ve heard a million times! “Blah, blah did I tell you I’d won the Enfield Trophy?, blah blah Monthly Medal, drone blah blah Winter Ecce blah blah….”

Club Champion for 2013 and winner of the Arthur Christieson Trophy is David Morton. David saw off an on-form Norman Reid in the final. This year’s Handicap Champion and recipient of the Dave McNicoll Cup is Iain Burnett who overwhelmed Brian Wardrop in their final. Sandy Norrie and Bill Simpson are this season’s Dunbar Cup winners and the Enfield Trophy was picked up by Andy Gilbride and his partner. Senior Champion, Bill Simpson lifted the Country Member’s Cup.

Shy and retiring Arthur Smith won the Winter Trophy and winner of Kiwi Shield this year was Frank Docherty. Winter Eclectic trophies were picked up this year by Brian Lawson (Championship), Sandy Norrie (Burnside) and Andy Gilbride’s partner (Buddon). Monthly Medal winners were: April – Alan Clark; May – Nor Reid; June – Andy Gilbride’s partner; July – Andy Gilbride; August – Derek Phinn; September – Stewart Hunter; October – Brian Lawson.

Congratulations and very well done to all our winners this year.

Station Masters Autumn Outing – another win for Vice Captain!

This year’s Masters Autumn Outing saw another convincing win for Vice Captain JimSimpson’s magnificent team over old adversary, Captain Walter Campbell’s set of duffers over the Burnside Course in almost perfect conditions for the time of year. Winner of the prestigious ‘Yellow Jacket’ was old stalwart Angus Mackay, who narrowly saw off Andy Gilbride in 2nd place closely followed by his son Brian in 3rd (Gus’s son – not Andy’s that is!). Former Vice Captain, Captain Holland was nearest the pin and longest drive was none other than Gus Mackay also! The Geordie Duncanson Trophy for the ‘most-improved player’ was lifted by Dave Ritchie and the famous ‘Beg of Tetties’ was won by John (Jeans that is) Jeans. Many thanks to The Station Hotel for the lovely meal after the match and everyone who donated prizes for the event.

 

Kiwi Shield outing at Glen Isla

This year’s annual Kiwi Shield outing took place last week over the rolling Glen Isla course where eleven members enjoyed a round in ideal conditions. Eventual winner was Frank Docherty with 30 something points, closely followed by Andy Gilbride in 2nd and Sandy Norrie 3rd. Winning team was Frank, Sandy, Andy and Davie Rutherford.

 Winning team – don’t like these shirts!

 Last year’s winner Martin hands over the trophy to Frank

Masters see off the field at Balbirnie

Station Masters representatives in this year’s Belhaven Captain’s and Secretary’s competition, Pete Coutie and Andy Gilbride (substituting for Captain Simpson), got off to a flying start in the regional Qualifying round at Balbirnie Golf Club near Markinch. Forty pairings from all over the country took to the tee in a shotgun start with the slender-challenged duo shooting an excellent 2 under par 69 to take 3rd spot out of 8 qualifiers. The Grand Final this year is at Downfield Golf Club on September 17th so there’s no excuse for not getting up to Dundee to support the boys! Well done Pete and Andy.

 

Looks like a ‘rabbit scraping’ to me. Should’ve taken a free drop! 

Coutie had plenty bunker practice – we hear.

The sylph-like duo celebrate at HQ after the match. Peter’s new anti-flab shirt appears to be working a treat!

 

Masters Spring Outing tee’s-up the new season

Despite the rather inclement weather conditions, an almost full contingent of hardy souls fought for the honour of the prestigious ‘Yellow Jacket’ for the best nett strokeplay total, at the same time as playing in the Captain v Vice Captain matchplay competition. This year the match was won convincingly by Vice Captain Simpson’s team, trouncing stand-in for Captain Campbell, Peter Coutie’s make-shift side by 5 matches to 2 and by far too many ‘holes-up’ to mention. Winner of the prestigious Yellow Jacket was newcomer Terry Convery, with a nett 63. Runner up was Iain Burnett and Brian McKay came third. Other noteable prize-winners were, Arthur Smith – (nearest the hole); Stewart Burke (longest drive); Brian Wardrop (most improved player); Norman Fox (best something – can’t remember!); Vice-Captain Simpson (worst gross and nett score). After the tournament, the competitors retired to the Club for a lovely post-match meal courtesy of Ivor and Kathryn, followed by some light refreshments and the prize-giving. All-in-all, a nice way to start the season.

Enfield Trophy final brings competition season to a close

 

This season’s Enfield Trophy has been won by Alan Clark and Iain Burnett who narrowly overcame Club newcomers Arthur Smith and Dave Leslie by 1 hole. Last Sunday’s final draws the curtain on another successful playing season with only this weekend’s sweepie to go before the mats come on on November 5th.

Jessica wins Arthur Christieson Trophy

17 year-old Jessica Meek has triumphed over slightly more ‘mature’ opponent Jim Hiney in the final of the Arthur Christieson Trophy, to become the youngest ever Station Masters Club Champion. In case you hadn’t noticed, Jessica is also the first female Club Champion. In a very tense, closely-fought match, Jessica held her nerve to beat Jim by 1 hole. Meanwhile, Bill Simpson defeated Match Secretary Andy Gilbride in what turned-out to be a rather one-sided Dave McNicoll Handicap final. The ‘old-timers’ Country Cup saw serial finalist Bill Simpson succumb to Vice Captain Elliot Davie in another thrilling encounter. In the first doubles final to be decided this season, Matt Edmond and pie-eater Brian Wardrop overcame father and son duo Jim and Ric Fulton in the final of the Dunbar Trophy.

Annual Dinner and Presentation of Prizes

The annual Dinner and Presentation of Prizes will be held on Friday 16th November, 7 for 7.30pm in the Function Lounge. All members and guests are very welcome. There is a notice for names up in the Bar and tickets have been held at the very reasonable cost of £25 per head. Please let us know asap if you are coming in order that we can inform Ivor of numbers.

 

Not quite ‘Latest News’ – only a few weeks late!

Masters enjoy day out at Lytham

Station Masters members and guests travelled down to Lytham for a day’s entertainment at the Open Tournament courtesy of fellow member, Ronnie Bennett. The chums made their way to the holiday capital of Englandshire – BLACKPOOL for a couple of days much needed R & R after a long season. All the boys took turns at selecting a pub of their choice, which worked a treat until it came to one member (who shall remain nameless), who made an unfortunate error of judgement – or was it? Yes, the GreenTractorMan, AKA Norman Reid of the Scryne was leading a ‘splinter’ group that had broken-away from the main party, so most of us weren’t subjected to the harrowing incident. It transpires that Norman had spotted a brightly coloured pub called ‘The Gay Gordons’. Thinking that this was a bar that played hoochter teuchter music or mabye even indulged in an occasional eightsome reel, he led his hapless buddies, Stan and Sandy past the beautiful ‘Bernadette’ on the door. Having bought a round of drinks, Stan was impressed by how friendly all the guys in bar were, chatting away and commenting how big Nor’s hands were. All of a sudden, the feckless trio realised the true extent of their predicament! Bernadette was definitely Bernie during the day and it was obvious many of the other girls had ‘fel hairy legs. As it transpired, the gullible group managed to drink-up pretty quickly and took leave of their hosts before Nor started to enjoy himself too much! Anyway, off to Lytham the next day where the special bus from Blackpool drops off spectators close to the front gate – only a few minutes walk to the Course. What could possibly go wrong? One of the group (who shall remain nameless) decides to ask a taxi driver for directions to the Course. You’ve guessed it – Nor Reid, totally lost without the Satnav in his tractor, leads the group on a wild goose-chase through the streets of Lytham, arriving at the Course some 2 hours and approx 6 miles later. Despite this, a great day (what was left of it) was had by all – apart from Clarkie who lost his phone and Greg Docherty who had to sleep on the bench outside the hotel cos Stan wouldn’t get up to let him in. Once again many thanks to Ronnie and Ali for their wonderful hospitality.

* think I may have inadvertently deleted all the photos that were taken – still working on it!

Club champion edged out in Tassie

Club Champion Iain Burnett narrowly lost out in the qualifying rounds for the matchplay stages of the Tassie tournament today. Iain shot a great 67 over the Burnside Course yesterday followed by a 89 in horrendously windy conditions over the Championship today, leaving him on a nett score of 156. It transpired that this was the ‘cut’ for the Maulesbank handicap tournament and unfortunately Iain missed out on a count-back. I personally blame his caddie (who shall remain nameless). Yes – Richard’s only advice to Iain was to ‘slow down’. Anyway, well done to Iain for representing the Club – there’s always next year! On a lighter note, Iain displayed a couple of lovely outfits. On Monday, a rather fetching pinkinsh top, set off with checked trousers and a matching traditional flat cap. Today, a more sombre feel with black troos red shirt and jacket complemented with a lovely black Station Masters penter’s cap.

                                      Iain’s outfit – Day 1                                                              Day 2

                                                                     Excited spectators                                                             More excited spectators

Weather fails to dampen outing spirits

This year’s annual outing to Alyth Golf Club was voted a great success by all those who made their way to the famous parkland course in rather miserable conditions. The weather failed to put off the winner on the day, Martin Connor, who scored an excellent 32 points. Martin picked up the inaugural ‘Kiwi Shield’, donated by New Zealand member Graham Bell during his stay last summer, along with a club shirt (too small unfortunately, even though it was XL! – well we didn’t know Martin was going to win did we?). The team prize was picked up after some spectacular play and loads of Stableford points by Kev Ritson, Greg Docherty and Captain Jim Simpson. Greg Docherty also won nearest the pin and his old man Frank won the longest drive. Captain Simpson won the money by virtue of having selected Martin in the draw before the match. Hard luck to everyone who didn’t win anything – it serves you right for laughing at the Captain for forgetting his waterproof breeks!

MORE PHOTOS BELOW – Seem to have lost presentation photos – to follow!

 

Connor (Kiwi Shield) and Docherty (Longest Drive) Coutie, Holland and Edmond (no prizes)

 

Gilbride, Horne and Morton (no prizes) Simpson, Ritson and Docherty (Team Champions – lots of prizes)

 

Members enjoy ‘Night to remember’

Vice Captain Davie, former Vice Captain – Captain Holland, Dez Muir and several other prominent Masters members enjoyed an evening of excitement and nostalgia at the Caird Hall last week when the fabulous Dundee FC hosted the 50th anniversary of their 61/62 League Championship win. The chums, along with 700 other fans were treated to a wonderful evening of wit and repartee hosted by former Club Manager, Jim Duffy and speakers including Craig Brown and Tam Cowan. Reports that Vice Captain Davie over-indulged on the vino are allegedly wide-of-the mark! (judge for yourself though).

n.b. in the interests of fairness and equity – we will publish a report of Dundee United’s 50th league winning annivesary – in 2033!

Elliot with apertif                                                                          Elliot with the great Gilzean

  

Former Vice Captain Holland with a suit on (and Ross)

Masters Spring Outing tee’s-up the new season

A lovely spring day met the contestants for the first competition of the new season over the Buddon Course last Sunday. Thirty hardy souls fought for the honour of the prestigious ‘Yellow Jacket’ for the best nett strokeplay total, at the same time as playing in the Captain v Vice Captain matchplay competition. In the event, the match was won by Captain Campbell by 5 matches to 3 and by far too many ‘holes-up’ to mention. Unfortunately, and totally coincidently, the Captain and Vice Captain were both forced to retire after 8 holes … Vice Captain Simpson (gout) and Captain Campbell (old age). Winner of the prestigious Yellow Jacket was Pete Coutie, with a nett 64. Runner up was Iain Burnett with a nett 65. Other noteable prize-winners were, Iain Burnett (again) – nearest the hole; Jamie Fulton (longest drive); Martin Connor (most improved player); Elliot Davie (worst nett score) and Richard Neilson (worst gross score). After the tournament, the competitors retired to the Club for a lovely post-match meal courtesy of Ivor and Kathryn, followed by some light refreshments and the prize-giving. All-in-all, a nice way to start the season.

 

Tropical weather conditions herald Annual Texas Scramble

You may recall that for the past 2 years, our annual Texas Scramble has been cancelled due to heavy snow coverage of the Course. Not this year though!! A record 36 competitors took part in what turned out to be a closely-fought contest with almost tropical weather conditions producing some enthralling golf. Once again, ever-popular winners Clark, Clark, Clark and Phinn P scraped through by a mere 0.2 of a point to take the top spot from runners-up Coutie, Jeans, Neilson and Burnett. Ritson, Summers, Connor and Phinn D came a creditable 3rd.

After the golf, contestants retired to the Clubhouse for a tasty snack of peh, chips and beans courtesy of Ivor, followed by an exciting ‘games afternoon’ of darts, dominoes and pool. Again, extremely tense and skillful competition was the order of the day with sporting stalwarts Simpson and Coutie reaching the finals of the pool and darts only to see them ‘robbed’ of the titles at the last hurdle. Winners of the pool were jammy Gamack and Shepherd. Tayside’s finest, Tony and Paul luckily won the darts whilst the quiet and reserved Summers and Connor romped away with the bones title. Chipping into the net from 5 paces was won by, wait for it …. the popular Alan Clark. A GREAT DAY HAD BY ALL – AND NOT A DROP OF ALCOHOL IN SIGHT!

  

 

Secretary shoots hole-in-one

Popular Station Masters secretary, Peter Coutie, recorded the first hole-in-one of his playing career at the 125 yard 10th hole over the Buddon winter circuit last week. Playing in the Winter Eclectic alongside regular companions, erstwhile plumber Tommy Horne, master mariner John Jeans and Club Champion Iain Burnett, Coutie later described his ace as: “a wonderful 6-iron into the teeth of a biting gale, the ball sailing majestically through the air as if on wings, landing softly on the green before trickling gently into the cup”. This vivid description it has to be said, came several hours after the event as the Secretary celebrated far into the night. Yes, in time-honoured fashion, Mr Coutie kept with tradition and bought copious amounts of alcohol in the Club – all for himself!! (obviously missed the point that you’re supposed to buy a drink for others). Anyway … well done to Peter on his magnificent achievement.

No change for Committee

The end-of-season AGM at the Station Hotel last week saw no change to the Committee make-up for the following playing season. Captain Jim Simpson and Vice Captain Elliot Davie still had one year of their 2 year tenure to run. Peter Coutie and Andy Gilbride were nominated un-opposed for the posts of Secretary and Match Secretary/Treasurer and Norman Reid and Ian Chaplain were once again voted on to the Committee. Alan Clark and Iain Burnett have been co-opted on to the Committee to assist with the general administration of the Club. A motion to increase membership fees by £5 across all categories, necessitated by SGU and ACGA fee rises along with greater insurance premiums, was adopted by the meeting – so look out for your membership renewal forms soon!

 

STATION MASTERS SUPPORT FOR BROOKE’S DREAM

7 year-old Brooke Ramsay picked up a cheque last week for £1100 towards her dream of one day being able to walk normally. The cash was presented by the Station Masters Golf Club Honorary President, Evelyn Christieson, following a ‘Good Causes gig nite’ held a couple of weeks ago at the Station Hotel, which raised an amazing £900. Music on the night was provided by veteran rock band ‘Sounds 4’, who captivated the capacity crowd with their mix of blues and lively rock. The total raised was supplemented a few days later at the Station Masters annual dinner and presentation of prizes where a further £200 was raised with the auction of two signed footballs. Club Captain Jim Simpson said, ‘we would like to offer sincere thanks to all those who contributed fantastic gifts for our raffles, to everyone who came along to our dance on the night, and of course to Ivor and Kathryn at the Station Hotel for their continued support. We hope that this donation will help Brooke eventually fulfil her dream’.

Jim, Walter, Evelyn and Elliot with Brooke and her family

 

Masters Autumn Outing success

The Station Master Autumn Outing over the Burnside Course attracted the usual gathering of waifs and strays from the Club. With Captain Campbell away to Trronoe (Toronto, Canada – for those who can’t understand the Canadian accent) for his bi-annual visit, secretary Coutie was thrust in to the hot seat as acting Captain for the day. In the event, the pressure of match competition was too much for the hapless substitute with Vice Captain Simpson running-out the comfortable winner by 4 matches to 3. The fact that Simpson and his partner Ronnie Bennett were defeated by some 11 holes in their match, was neither here nor there! A good time was had by all after the match in the Station where a sumptuous tea was laid on by Ivor.

Motley crew before the tee off

Station Masters support for ‘Brooke’s Dream’

The Station Masters ‘annual good-causes gig-nite’ last Saturday attracted a capacity crowd of ‘youngsters’ determined to re-live their youth! Veteran rockers, Trevor Williamson and his band SOUNDS 4, entertained the revellers with an eclectic mix of blues and lively rock. A special thanks goes to all those who contributed lovely gifts for the raffle and as usual to Ivor and Kathryn for all their support. Ticket sales and raffle (after expenses) came to the incredible total of £900. This was further supplemented by a prize draw held at our annual dinner and presentation of prizes on Friday, which raised another £200. A cheque for £1100 was presented to Brooke and her family by Club Hon President, Evelyn yesterday at the Station. ONCE AGAIN – THANKS TO EVERYONE FOR THEIR SUPPORT!! One day soon, Brooke will be able to walk like all her friends.

Sounds 4

Annual Dinner and Presentation of Awards

The Station Masters Annual Dinner and Presentation of Awards was held on Friday in the Function Lounge at the Station Hotel. A packed crowd of members and invited guests were treated to a superb dinner followed by the presentation of awards to this year’s trophy winners. Head and shoulders above all came Iain Burnett, who scooped both the Arthur Christieson Scratch Trophy and the Dave McNicoll Handicap Cup. Rab Low and George Anderson picked-up the Fourball Enfield Trophy and brothers Brian McKay and Alan McKay lifted the foursomes Dunbar Cup. Old-timer, Bill Simpson won the senior’s Country Cup and Alan Clark was victorious in this (and last) season’s Winter Shield. Representatives of the Dalhousie, the Mercantile and the Caledonia Golf Clubs attended along with Dr Hamish Leslie from the Panmure Club. Speakers for the evening were Arbroath lads, Frank Murray and Matt Paterson, who were fantastic. (it’s no often Nor Reid gets something right – but he did on this occasion!)

Iain Burnett with Captain Simpson

 

Kiwi heads home!

Perhaps our most enthusiastic overseas member, New Zealander, Graham Bell headed home last weekend after spending a hectic 4 weeks in theTown. Graham hails from Auckland and is a member at the prestigious ‘Royal’ Auckland Golf Club in Otahuhu. Since arriving in Carnoustie on his now annual visit, Graham has entered into the spirit of the Club by becoming involved in weekly sweepies and a monthly medal, playing with the likes of Jim Fulton, Frankie Bell, Nor Reid, Andy Gilbride, George Anderson and Dave Meek as well as weekday matches with former Captain Walter, Bill Simpson, Kenny Knowles, and Arliss. Thanks to all the members who made Graham feel welcome at our Club. Not only did he play golf, he volunteered to marshal at the Ladies Open, (although Coutie says he was more often than not watching the golf – rather than the spectators he was supposed to be looking after!) Before heading home, Captain JS presented Graham with an engraved quaich as a small memento of his visit to Scotland. Graham also graciously presented the Club with a trophy, named the ‘KIWI SHIELD’ which will be competed for by our members at the annual outing organised by Secretary Coutie. Hosts for Graham’s visit, Bob and May Geddes were overwhelmed when Graham announced that he would definitely be returning next year! In fact, May was getting a bit of a reputation for never being out of the Station Bar – mmmm lovely gin and tonic!!!

We all look forward (even Bob and May) to welcoming Graham back next year

Graham and long-suffering host May Geddes (only joking Graham!)

 

Hon President is 80

Honourary President, Elvelyn Christieson, reached a milestone in her life when she clocked-up 80 years yesterday! The ever-youthful Evelyn played birthday host to her extended family yesterday evening in the grounds of her luxurious mansion as the Scottish rain fell. Son, Richard, was on hand to provide an excellent (if somewhat soggy) barbecue for the assembled throng. Evelyn was presented with a lovely planter by some of the boys on the Committee… Can we take this opportunity to wish our President all the best and many Happy Returns!!

Jessica wins St Andrews Junior Ladies Open

“The 2011 St Andrews Junior Ladies Open tournament for the Golf Monthly Trophy was won by 11th seed Jessica Meek from Carnoustie Ladies. She won by 4 and 2 in the final over the Old Course against Emma Greenlees, the ninth qualifier from Dumfries and Galloway”.

The above rather bland and boring addition to the ‘St Andrews Links’ official website is all that heralds the magnificent achievement of our fellow member, Jessica Meek, in winning the St Andrews Junior Ladies Open! No photos – no report – NOTHING!

No doubt proud dad Dave, will (bore us all ) give us all a blow-by-blow account of the match! But in the meantime …

CONGRATULATIONS JESSICA – VERY WELL DONE !!!!!!

 

Station Masters annual outing at Forfar

This year’s annual Station Masters away-day outing took place on Friday over the tree-lined Forfar Golf Course. A lovely sunny day greeted the competitors as they made their way to the course to be met with coffee and a fantastic bacon roll – of course one roll wasn’t enough for some people (who shall remain nameless) but Neil and Andy’s rather ravenous demeanor indicated that they probably hadn’t eaten for several days! Anyway – the match finally got under way with the buggy brigade (Davie and Holland) leading the pack. Trees proved a major obstacle for many players and bells were a bit of a distraction, especially for Dave Ritchie, but most players managed to negotiate the course without too many mishaps. Tommy Horne’s electric buggy kept cutting out which provided him with a great excuse for coming LAST with a poor 108! Winner on the day was the youthful David Clark with a nett 70 something, with a rather envious ‘old-man’ Alan, only managing the runner’s up spot. Best dressed golfer on the day, George Anderson, came 3rd. Winning team was Gilbride, Anderson and D Clark. David also won the longest drive and the Clarks completed a full-house when Garry pipped Frank Docherty for nearest the pin at the 16th. Almost forgot to mention … organiser and major flapper, Pete Coutie – great job!! All-in-all a great day out at Forfar.

Check out futher pics from the day at ‘Latest News in Pictures’ and this year we also have a VIDEO !!! (courtesy of ex Vice Captain, Captain Holland) of everyone tee-ing off – so if you have a spare 12 minutes or are suffering from insomnia… log on to this at http://youtu.be/vDqAxVC7TtQ

 

Station Masters pair fail to find form at Dunfermline

This year’s representatives in the Belhaven Captain’s and Secretary’s competition, Pete Coutie and Iain Burnett, failed to sparkle in the opening qualifying round at Dunfermline Golf Club this week. The national championship for Scotland’s captains and secretaries, is open to all SGU affiliated golf clubs. Now in its six year, the championship has quickly become one of the country’s most popular events, with five regional finals in the North, South, East, West and Central regions of Scotland. This tournament is played over 1 round. The format is a 4-ball better ball stroke play championship with a 3/4 handicap allowance. By all accounts (their own in fact) Coutie and Burnett played well but several bizarre incidents, including one where Coutie’s ball actually ended up inside a tree, blighted their round. In the event, the pair came a creditable 36th out of 40. Well …. at least we beat the Carnoustie Club!!! 

Former Vice Captain falls at first hurdle

Former Vice Captain, Captain Holland suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of less than fit Brian Wardrop in the first round of the pensioner’s cup, landing him the dubious accolade of being the first competitor to be knocked out of a Club competition in the new season. Holland was no match for the plucky Wardrop who is still recovering from a recent spell in hospital. Sources close to Holland said that his recent playboy life-style with visits to far-flung corners of the globe, has done little to improve his game. One friend said “we thought that Neil had reached rock-bottom when he picked up the wooden spoon again at the Cally Winter League, but this takes the biscuit!” Wardrop inadvertently rubbed salt into the wound by later admitting that he had played sh–e throughout the match. Holland joins the likes of Stan Shepherd and Andy Gilbride on the list of other noteable first round failures.

Sorry couldn’t find a photo of Wardrop so you’re stuck with this auld ane of Captain Holland

 

Station Masters (not the Station Masters) Spring Outing

This season’s Station Masters Spring Outing took place last Sunday over the Buddon Course in wonderful summery conditions. Those loyal Dundee supporters who chose to visit Dens to take in another fabulous draw from the mighty Dundee FC, missed out on what proved to be a closely fought contest. Norman Reid (aka GreenTractorman), deputising for a recovering Captain Campbell, somehow managed to scrape a narrow victory with a makeshift team of miss-fits, beating Vice Captain Simpson’s magnificent team by 4 and half matches to 3 and a half. Winner of the prestigious Yellow Jecket and outright Station Masters champion was the popular Gordon Smart, with a magnificent 60 something (sorry forgotten the exact score) (see Readers Letters Page). Close runner up with a nett 69 was young David Morton, who narrowly pipped Jim Hiney by virtue of a better countback. The fact that Brian Morton was tasked with checking and ratifying the winning scores had no bearing on the final placings! Gordon Smart (him again) won nearest the pin and Jim Hiney won the longest drive. The committee are currently looking at Gordon’s handicap under the terms of CONGU Rule 19b – which gives us the power to adjust anyone’s handicap as we see fit! Only joking – well done to Gordon and all the winners, especially Hiney and Simpson, who won their match by the highest margin of 7 holes up against the erstwhile plumber Horne and his long-suffering accomplice Coutie! Thanks also to the Station Hotel for a wonderful post-match tea and all those who donated prizes on the day.

Jessica starts season with a bang

Jessica Meek has started the season in great form by winning two consecutive competitions last week. On Monday 4th April she won the Angus girls’ Spring competition at Forfar Golf Club on Sunday with 77 (4) 73 on the better inward half from Ailsa Summers 75 (2) 73. As the top 2 scratch qualifiers, Ailsa and Jessica went on to contest the junior championship final the next day. Jessica was to come out on top again when she defeated Ailsa 6 and 5 to become Angus County Junior Champion. One under par and three up at the turn, Jess completed the next four holes in one under par to take the title. Both girls played excellent golf tee to green in a difficult wind, but Jessica excelled on the greens whilst Ailsa struggled and that’s where the difference lay. Well done Jessica!

Members and guests enjoy day out at the legendary Dens Park

Taking a well-deserved break from golf recently, several Station Masters members along with their guests, enjoyed an action-packed day

out at Dens Park for the match, against arch-rivals Raith Rovers. As we all know, the Glorious Dundee struck in the dying minutes of the match through the ever-youthful Neil McCann, providing a fairytale finish to a pulsating game, running out magnificent victors 2 – 1. The match was sponsored by former Vice Captain, Captain Holland’s company, Marex Marine and Safety Services, a globally renowned outfit (something to do with boats we think) operating from Aberdeen to as far afield as Scrabster. Neil and his chums enjoyed excellent boardroom hospitality, with a menu consisting of delicious beef olives washed down with copious quantities of Champagne and other fine wines – all at a ridiculously low cost. The group actually had the honour of selecting the man-of-the-match which in this instance went to Dundee defender Craig McKeown. The day was rounded off for one lucky chum (who shall remain nameless) when he won a framed photo of a Dundee shirted George Best valued at £130 in the match raffle. Rumours presently circulating the Club suggest that Elliot, thinking that more Champagne was on the go, in fact stuck his hand up during an auction which was taking place for the photo and ended up making the highest bid! These rumours however are believed to be the work of disaffected ‘arab’ troublemakers and should be treated with the contempt they deserve. All-in-all a great day out for the chums and a triumph for all supporters of silky soccer.

*IT IS WELL KNOWN THAT THE EDITOR IS COMPLETELY IMPARTIAL WHEN IT COMES TO MATTERS SUCH AS THIS REPORT SO IN THE INTERESTS OF FAIRNESS – IF ANY ARABS DUNDEE UNITED SUPPORTER MEMBERS HAVE A SIMILAR EXPERIENCE OF HAVING GONE TO TANNADICE AND ENJOYED THE DAY SO MUCH – THEN LET US KNOW AND WE WILL PUBLISH YOUR STORY ACCORDINGLY. CAN’T SEE IT SOMEHOW, BUT WE AWAIT YOUR RESPONSE WITH BATED BREATH!!

Links landmarks take shape

Two new landmarks are gradually taking shape over Carnoustie Golf links. The futuristic-designed Pro-centre is well on the way to completion in time for the Ricoh Women’s British Open 2011 (to give it its correct title) in July. Further out on the course, the new ‘tea-hut’ is also well under construction at the 10th hole – its about time the caddies were provided with up-dated facilities!

 

Tea hut at the 10th      :     Pro centre at the 1st

Vice Captain in buggy drama

Illustrious Vice Captain Elliot Davie was involved in a dramatic on-course incident last Sunday. Playing companions (who shall remain nameless) were quick to recount the details of the life-threatening event, in true News of The World fashion. By all accounts, the round started off in the normal way with DCs Elliot and Dez taking on singleton Steve Logan (Chappie never turned up again!) over the Championship course. Unfortunately, disaster struck when Elliot, driving his state-of-the-art buggy, tried to negotiate the steep banking between the 2nd green and the 3rd tee. Much to his playing partners horror however, the slope proved too great and Elliot and the buggy couped, trapping the vice captain underneath. Luckily, once they had stopped laughing recovered from the shock, Steve and Dez were quick to spring to Elliot’s rescue and managed to right him and the buggy before continuing with their round. Reports that Dez was too concerned about the vice captain’s well-being that he forgot to take a photo of the incident is wide of the mark. Similarly, Steve’s request at the 6th that they go back to stage a re-construction of the event to record for posterity is unconfirmed.

 

Elliot

A BUGGY SIMILAR TO THAT INVOLVED IN THE DRAMA

 

Annual Texas Scramble postponed

The annual Texas Scramble has fallen victim to the wintry conditions for the second year in a row. On the bright side however this provided the excuse opportunity to hold a games afternoon in the Club with darts, dominoes, pool and target chipping on the agenda. In a closely fought afternoon of competition involving skill, judgement and finesse, twenty-odd hardy souls pitted their wits against each other for the coveted titles. Well done to Ivor for the pie and chips at half timeish and to Coutie and Morton for organising all the events.

p.s. Hope the course is closed next year aswell!

Darts Champions for 2010 were Gordon Smart and Peter Phinn who defeated Tony and his mate Paul in the final which was temporarily delayed when the dart board fell off the wall! Its a bit of an indictment that with 3 or 4 experienced engineers present, Captain Simpson had to take charge and fix the board by manufacturing a bracket from the top of a Coke can.

 

Gordon and Derek  : Dartboard repairs

Dominoes Champions were Tony and Paul who absolutely stuffed Secretary Coutie and erstwhile plumber Tommy Horne in the final.

Pool Champions (predictably) were Treasurer Gilbride and Captain Simpson who gave the young Clark brothers a proper hiding in the final.

That lad presenting the prizes doesn’t look too happy!

Jammy gett winners of the Target Chipping competition were twins Stan and Frank who didn’t even pay the £2 entry fee yet still walked away with a bottle each!

He’s smiling now when its two Arabs who have won.

Annual dinner and presentation of prizes

The 2010 annual dinner and presentation of prizes was held recently in the Station Hotel. This season’s trophy winners were:

CLUB CHAMPION – The Arthur Christieson Trophy: Ric Fulton

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HANDICAP CHAMPION – The Dave McNicoll Cup: Nor Reid

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(that fermers jacket’s playing havoc with the pixels!)

FOURBALL CHAMPIONS – The Dunbar Trophy: George Anderson and Rab Low

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FOURSOMES CHAMPIONS – The Enfield Trophy: Sandy Norrie and Bill Simpson

SENIORS TROPHY – The Country Members Cup: Nor Reid (again)

Entertainment on the evening was provided by Euan Kerr and John McShane.

Euan worked with D.C. Thomson for over 30 years, becoming Editor of the world-famous Beano in 1984. In 2006 he became Deputy Manager of Children’s Publishing before recently retiring. He is a keen golfer and plays regularly in the Caley winter league.

John McShane lives in Glasgow and currently lectures at Langside College and Cardonald College. John is a writer and publisher of worksby various comics creators and is co-founder of Scottish Screenwriters and Scottish Cartoonists Society. His interests include film and television, cartooning, reading and creative writing and music.

Captain Simpson presided and Vice Captain Davie was MC as usual

All the prize-winners

Don’t ask … just don’t ask! * n.b. former Vice Captain, Captain Holland didn’t win anything – he sneaked into photo!

‘Good Causes’ Gig Nite raises £700

The Station Masters GC annual ‘good causes’ dance with veteran rockers Sounds 4, was held in the Station Hotel a couple of weeks ago, raising the fantastic total of £700. This year, the cash is being divided equally between local youngster Gerry Bruce and lessons for local school pupils at The Brae riding ability centre. Six year old Gerry who is confined to a wheelchair and has severe health difficulties, derives great pleasure from a sensory unit at Ninewells where he receives much of his treatment. For the past few months, friends and members of the local community have organised various fund-raisers towards the cost of installing a sensory room for Gerry at his home in Carnoustie. Mum Kelly said that this latest donation of £350 brings them pretty close to their target of over £6000 required for the work. The remaining £350 raised is going to riding lessons at The Brae, a purpose-built equestrian centre on the outskirts of Dundee and part of the National Riding for the Disabled Association. Here, Gerry and other local youngsters with disabilities receive riding lessons which medical professionals recognise can provide significant therapeutic benefits for the rider.

The ever-youthful Sounds 4

Enfield Trophy reaches conclusion

A crisp Sunday morning greeted the competitors for the Final of this year’s Enfield Trophy. Sandy Norrie and Bill Simpson conceded a number of years to their youthful opponents, the Clark brothers as the match started amidst a number of complaints of ‘sair heids’ from some of the players and also the referee – obviously as a result of some sort of virus! Nonetheless, the match continued apace with both sides fighting tooth and nail before age experience came to the fore with Norrie and Simpson running out eventual victors by 3 and 2. Well done to Sandy and Bill and to their worthy opponents Garry and David.

 

Station Masters GC v Mercantile GC ends in draw

Secretary Coutie was given another chance to redeem himself following last season’s humiliating defeat at the hands of the Mercantile. Unfortunately this was not to be. However, in the interests of fairness the following is an un-edited (apart from spelling mistakes and punctuation) report on the match prepared by the Secretary himself:

On Sunday 26 September The Station Masters played the third annual match against the Mercantile Golf Club on the Burnside. Secretary Coutie used his meagre resources well and placed the cannon fodder known as Elliot Davie and John Jeans in the first group. They obliged by getting beat by 1 hole.
Andy Gilbride and the Sec played against the might of Colin Yule and his younger more handsome brother Brian, and despite a valiant effort eventually lost on the last hole when the nothing short of brilliant C Yule had a birdie to close out an exciting match.
Team 3, Neil Holland and George Anderson – well not much we can say there, lost 3 & 2.
Sec Coutie’s masterplan kicked in when his 4th team, Iain Burnett and Richard Neilson, missed a putt for a 7 & 6 victory and hung on for a 3 & 2 win. Burnett later said “it was like being handcuffed to a monkey“. Don’t know what he meant.
Team 5, Dave Meek and Peter (unbeaten) Phinn, again an inspired pairing by the Sec, romped home with a 4 & 3 win, setting up a nailbiting final match where again the Sec came through with his pairing of Benny Crawford and Gordon Smart who repeated the scoreline of their team 5 mates. Their opponents were heard to say “f****ng grey haired bandit“. We’re trying to work out if they were talking about Benny or Gordon.
The Match result was 3 games each and as a result the Mercantile hold on to the imaginary trophy which they won last year. Next year however……

* Once again – the secretary failed to record the event with even a mobile phone photo

Club Championship Final

The Arthur Christieson Trophy final was played on Tuesday over the Buddon Links. In horrendous conditions, wet and strong wind from the south east, finalists Ric Fulton and Sandy Norrie fought ‘tooth and nail’ for the top award. On course reporter Andy Gilbride sent us a blow-by-blow account as it happened:

Hole 1 A good 3 at the 1st gives Sandy an early lead. Sandy 1 up.

Hole 2 A poor tee shot on 2 sees Sandy in the dreaded burn. Ric pulls back a hole. All square thru 2.

Hole 3 Rics turn to err off the tee putting his drive OB with Sandy comfortably on the green. Sandy 1 up thru 3.

Hole 4 Excellent 6 foot putt for Ric to halve hole. Ric 1 down thru 4.

Hole 5 Sandy pars. Ric bogeys. Sandy 2 up thru 5.

Hole 6 Ric finds the ditch off the tee. Sandy pars to win the hole. Sandy 3 up thru 6.

Hole 7 Good par for Sandy. Sandy 4 up thru 7.

Hole 8 Sandy’s turn to find the ditch. Ric pulls one back. Ric 3 down thru 8.

Hole 9 Wayward strokes from both players sees hole halved in 6. Sandy 3 up at turn.

Hole 10 Ric concedes hole to Sandy’s par. Sandy 4 up thru 10.

Hole 11 Ric wins 11. Sandy 3 up thru 11.

Hole 12 Sandy nearly loses ball. Bad lie.. can’t recover. Ric wins hole. Sandy now only 2 up thru 12.

Hole 13 Both soggy contenders find green and putt gimmies for a half. Sandy still 2 up thru 13.

* A WORD NOW FROM OUR LOCAL SPONSOR: “This reporter is delighted to be able to keep his phone dry because he bought proper waterproofs at a competitive price from The Carnoustie Golf Shop. You too could keep dry by visiting Dave McNicoll’s where the staff are friendly and attentive”.

Hole 14 Sandy finds bunker with his 3rd short. Ric wins hole. Sandy now 1 up thru 14.

Hole 15 Wet and windy. Not even ‘Scott’ would venture out in such conditions! Ric edges out Sandy to win hole. All square thru15.

Hole 16 Long hole. Good par from Sandy. Ric misses 4ft putt. Sandy back to 1 up thru 16.

Hole 17 Fantastic tee shot gives Ric a 15ft putt to win hole. Ric misses but holds nerve to match Sandy’s par. Sandy 1 up thru 17.

CAN RIC PULL IT BACK ON 18?

Hole 18 Sandy drives into GUR. His next shot finds the rough. 3rd shot into the heart of the green. Ric holes out for a par. Sandy narrowly misses his putt. All square after 18! PLAY-OFF HOLES 1st 2nd and 18th. If still all square sudden death over 2nd and 18th.

Sorry for slight delay … was away making soup for tonite’s tea!

Play-off Hole 1 Both players par. All square.

Play-off Hole 2 Par 5 for both players. All square going down 18 for the 2nd time.

Play-off Hole 18 Ric finds sand at green with his 2nd shot. Splashes out close to the pin. Sandy, on green in 3 just shaves hole with his putt. Ric closes out Sandy with a ‘sandy save’!

Great match – very difficult conditions. NEW CLUB CHAMPION – RIC FULTON! CONGRATULATIONS.

Dave McNicoll Handicap Trophy provides worthy winner

Reporter – Andy Gilbride

A quite beautiful Autumnal Day saw the GreenTractor Man, Nor Reid take on The Station Masters’ only Scottish Representative for Golf in Scotland, Jessica Meek, ably refereed by Andy Gilbride.

This looked to be a good natured competition as both finalists have played each other many times in the past. However any misgivings that this would diminish the competitive spirit were soon quashed when Mr Reid chipped in at the 1st for a two…and although his line was clearly good, had he not whacked the flag Jess would have been saying those immortal words in match play, ‘Still You Nor’.

The following four holes halved, it looked difficult to separate these two gladiators. However a quite superb approach at the 6th allowed Jessica to take advantage and the match resumed all square.

Jessica found the dreaded trees at the 7th, and having escaped onto the fairway her next stroke was placed to 4 foot. Nor playing safe short of the green, then fluffed a chip and only managed a bogie 5. Unfortunately Jessica missed her putt and nor scraped a win using one of his 8 shots that Jess was giving him.

Jess came straight back by winning 8 and again using his stroke nor won the 9th. One up at the turn and between them only 71 shots . This was quality golf…something Nor has not been used to playing normally alongside the likes of Andy and Jim Fulton.

Nor went on to win the 10th and for the first time it looked as if a gap may emerge. Although Nor received a stroke at both 11 and 12 Jessica managed to halve both and go on to win 13th.

Unfortunately another stroke conceded at 14 allowed Nor to win with a Bogie…Jess narrowly missing her Par.

Jess won 15 and halved 16 and at 1 up going down 17, Nor managed a par which left Jess a pressure putt to keep the Match going.

It was nice to see Nor willing the putt home as he could appreciate this match should have headed down 18 all square. However as in life, golf is not always fair, and unfortunately a miss by Jess and the game was over… Congratulations to Nor, commiserations to Jess. And of course, well done all those who took part in the competition that resulted in such a worthy Final.

 

Club competitions near conclusion

The Station Masters annual Club competitions are all down to the wire with two trophies already having been decided. This year’s Dunbar Cup winners are long-time campaigner Rab Low and new-comer George Anderson. Rab and George beat off stiff opposition from Secretary Coutie and old-timer Tommy Horne in an exciting final. Speaking of old-timers, the Country Cup was lifted by GreenTractorMan, Nor Reid who saw off John (Jeans that is) in a closely contested final match. Unfortunately, none of the competitors had the foresight to take a photo of their encounters – so you’ll just have to imagine the tension and drama of the occasion.

It is anticipated that the Arthur Christieson, the Dave McNicoll and the Enfield finals will be played over the next couple of weeks.

 

President and Vice Captain meet Peter Alliss

Club President Evelyn and Vice Captain Elliot attended the official opening of the re-furbished Simpsons Golf Shop during the Senior Open week. The duo mingled with the invited guests and had time to chat with our honourary member Peter, before he was whisked away to work for his employers that week, ESPN. Peter passed on his regards to all his ‘fellow members’ and hopes to be able to drop in to the Club at a future date.

*still trying to source pic of Elliot and Peter from Simpson’s Facebook site – keep you posted.

Match Secretary meets Bernhard Langer

What a busy month we had in July. Not only did we meet with Peter, Senior Open winner Bernhard Langer dropped into the Station on the Saturday evening for dinner and was so impressed that he booked again for dinner after the final round of the tournament on Sunday. Word has it that his grilled haddock was cooked to perfection! Andy caught up with Bernhard as he was leaving and the Champion graciously signed a couple of shirts before heading off to Seattle to win the US Open Senior tournament … must be something to do with Ivor’s cooking!

Andy with Senior Open Champ Bernhard in the Club

 

Glenisla outing success

Glenisla Golf Course near Alyth was the venue for the latest Masters ‘away day’ outing. Fourteen hardy souls braved the heat and sunshine of lovely summers day before retiring to the clubhouse for lunch and refreshments. Winners on the day were:

Top team – Dave Ritchie and Garry Clark.

Runners up – Peter Coutie, Alan Clark and Ian Burnett

Longest drive – Captain Simpson (by a mile)

Nearest the pin – Dave Ritchie

Best individual score – Captain (former vice captain) Holland

Once again Secretary Coutie organised the event to the best of his ability and with the exception of one or two howlers, the day out was voted a huge success.

 

Station Masters duo qualify for finals at blustery Arbroath

Secretary Peter Coutie and subbie Iain Burnett, emerged victorious from the regional qualifying round of the Belhaven Captain’s and Secretary’s competition played over Arbroath Links last week. In the first of five regional finals to be staged throughout the country in the next few weeks, Downfield Golf Club came out top with a nett best-ball score of 64. With only eight teams qualifying for the final to be played at Murrayshall on Tuesday 21st September, the Station Masters duo finished strongly to claim eighth spot with a nett 69. Iain, an inspired substitute for the still convalescing Captain Simpson, was the steadying influence on the duo, whilst our illustrious secretary, spurred on with the promise of a slap-up meal and free Belhaven beer at the end of the round, managed to put a few shots together after the turn, much to the relief of his partner. The pair complained about the rather windy conditions but video evidence proves it was relatively calm. In any event, our dynamic duo beat off the opposition of the rest of the 160 strong field, including more ‘established’ clubs such as Carnoustie and Arbroath. WELL DONE to both players!!

 

Station Masters donation helps band to victory

Carnoustie and District Youth Brass Band held a ‘going-away’ concert in St Annes Church last Friday evening before leaving the next day for the National Brass Band Championships in Manchester on Sunday. The concert was held as a thank-you for the sponsors and supporters of band in their quest to do one better than last year’s second place in the competition. Once again the Station Masters were on hand to lend their support with a cheque for £100. A bucket collection on the evening raised the staggering sum of £1000 towards the youngsters travel and accommodation costs.

And – HOT OFF THE PRESS – we are delighted to announce that the band WON their class last night (Sunday 18th) in the National Championships beating off strong opposition. We think that this is the first Scottish band to have won a major national competition in what is effectively the ‘home’ of brass band country. A magnificent achievement!!

Committee member bags hole-in-one

Committee member Iain Burnett, playing alongside committee member Peter Coutie and erstwhile plumber Tommy Horne, bagged a hole in one at the 13th hole on the Buddon last week. Iain said it was a magnificent 5 wood shot which took one bounce and landed straight in the cup. Peter’s version was slightly different, claiming that he and Iain thought the ball had sailed straight through the green and it wasn’t until they got to the hole, they realised it had gone in off the pin. Tommy couldn’t comment as he was rolling a fag at the time and didn’t see a thing! In keeping with tradition (set by Arliss a couple of years ago) Iain was none too forthcoming in buying drinks after the match – allegedly! Whatever the truth of the matter, it was a magnificent achievement – well done Iain!

* This report was compiled with facts supplied by Iain Burnett and the hearsay of his playing partners and so-called friends.

Popular winner of prestigious ‘Yellow Jacket’

Committee co-optee Alan Clark triumphed in the Station Masters Spring Outing held last week over the Buddon course. Former yellow jacket winner Alan, shot a magnificent nett 65 in awkward, wet, blustery conditions. Runner-up was the extremely docile Dave Meek, closely followed by pooper scooper Alfie Boath. In the team competition, Captain Campbell’s short series of wins was brought to an abrupt end when Vice Captain Simpson’s team ran out worthy winners by 21 holes up to 12. Other winners on the day were Neil Walker (best inward half), Iain Burnett – [him again!] (best outward half), Frank Docherty (unbelievably nearest the pin), Jim Watson (longest drive), Peter Phinn (George Duncanson Trophy for most improved player!), Walter Campbell (worst gross score 116), Stan Shepherd (worst nett score 89), and Gwen Watson (a bunch of flowers for the only lady to compete). Frankie Docherty also won a prize for ‘shot of the day‘. Thanks to everyone who donated fantastic prizes and to the Station Hotel for a lovely post-match meal.

Thankfully – the only photo available of Mr Clark!         Gwen and some old dude

 

Games Afternoon success

Snowy conditions outside did little to dampen the enthusiasm of the members who took part in our hastily arranged ‘Games Afternoon’ in the Club following the cancellation of the annual Texas Scramble. A large turnout honed their skills in the challenging games of pool, dominoes and pitching into a target net thingymajig. Notable ‘no-shows’ were the former Captain and former Hon Secretary who cited blindness and alcoholic poisoning respectively as pathetic excuses. Our new secretary, Mr Coutie ran the proceedings with a ‘fist of putty’, delaying the draw until everyone had had several drinks, thus ensuring that he and his partner Burnett junior could somehow wangle the bones championship! A delicious mid-afternoon snack of peh and beans was served up courtesy of Ivor, which resulted in the DCs (Stan and co) feeling right at home. Competition was fierce among the teams who took part:

1) Simpson & Gamack 2) Norrie & Rutherford 3) D Phinn & G Smart 4) N Reid & A Gilbride 5) P Coutie & I Burnett 6) A Clark & P Phinn 7) S Shepherd & R Neilson 8) D Morton & B Morton 9) J Fulton & J Fulton

Eventual winners were:
POOL

Clarkie and Phinno spawned it when young Fulton potted the black by mistake

BONES

Coutie and Burnett with a disembodied hand

TARGET PITCHING

Sandy and young Rutherford who scored an amazing 11 points himself

 

Heavy snow forces Winter Cup 1st round to be cancelled

Heavy snow forced the closure of all three courses this weekend leading to the 1st round of the newly established Winter Trophy to be cancelled. The competition will now be contested over the next 3 months with all three rounds counting.

Masters Christmas Card reaches new high note

A choirboy theme for this years Masters Christmas card exemplifies the ‘angelic’ side of the Committee:

Wishing you a

Very Merry Christmas

and a

Happy New Year

from all at

The Station Masters Golf Club

Carnoustie

 

Annual Dinner and Presentation of Trophies success

Another exciting summer playing season for the Club culminated recently in a very successful Annual Dinner and Presentation of Trophies in the Station Lounge. Over fifty members and guests were treated to an excellent meal followed by the presentation of trophies. Guest speakers Iain McMurray and Rodger Brunton enthralled the audience with their wide-ranging repertoire of jokes, anecdotes and amusing stories, making it arguably the best dinner to date – (don’t tell McNicoll cos he goes in the huff if anyone says that). Check out the pics below:

  

Andy – Burnside Eclectic Elliot – Championship eclectic Clarkie – Burnside eclectic

  

Young Clarkie – Monthly Medal Andy again – Monthly Medal Some old dude – Monthly Medal

Matt and Brian – Dunbar Cup winners

Him again! – picking up Meekie’s Club Championship Trophy

 

Speaking of old dudes – John with the Country Cup and Farmer Reid with lovely sports jacket 

 

Quality speakers – Rodger Brunton and Iain McMurray

 

  

The lovely serving wenches

New look to Committee

A relatively small turn-out for this year’s AGM saw some minor alterations to the look of the Committee. Jim Simpson continued in his post of Captain of the Club for another year. Elliot Davie had previously been co-opted on the Committee in the post of Vice-Captain, relinquishing his role as Secretary. Peter Coutie was proposed and seconded to the post of Secretary un-opposed. Andy Gilbride, who came up for re-election this year was also reappointed Treasurer / Match Secretary un-opposed. Similarly, Iain Chaplain was re-elected as a Committee member leaving one member to be co-opted to the Committee at a later date.

New Winter competition proposed

It has been decided that a new Winter competition will be contested, starting next month. The imaginatively named ‘Winter Trophy’ (blame Clarkie for that) will be played in Monthly Medal format on the 3rd weekend of December 2009, January, February and March 2010. The best three scores of strokeplay cards submitted will count towards the winning total. Details to follow – keep an eye on the noticeboard in the Club.

 

Autumn outing success

This year’s Autumn outing finally went ahead at the weekend following the earlier disruption caused by the overrun of the Dunhill Championship due to high winds on the Saturday. A slightly reduced field of 28 played over the Buddon course in what turned out to be perfect weather conditions. Winner of the team competition was once again Captain Campbell whose side won 4 matches to 3 and 14 holes up to 4. The prestigious Yellow Jacket was picked up by popular winner John Jeans (John that is) who shot a very creditable nett 63. Runner-up with a nett 64 was (can’t remember at the moment) and 3rd with a nett 65 was former pro, Steve Logan. A lovely post-match meal was provided by the Station Hotel and the presentation of prizes went off without a hitch.

John presented with trophy and prestigious Yellow Jacket

Morons on the Captain’s team and the lovely Alison

Club Championship singles finals decided

Earlier this week both Club Championship singles finals were decided in exciting fashion. First up was the final of the DaveMcNicoll Trophy contested by Nor (green tractor-man) Reid and Paul (Kiwi) Burkitt. Reid broke down Burkitt’s 8 shot handicap advantage early on in the match and by the turn had run up a 3 shot lead. Burkitt could never recover and Reid ran out eventual winner 5 and 3. The other final, the Arthur Christieson Club Championship scratch competition was played between old doubles finals campaigners, Rab Low and Dave Meek. The pulsating match saw the lead change hands several times before Low went 2 holes up through 11. Meek however clawed back to even the match after 14 and took the lead himself on 15. Low plugged away but could not wrestle back the lead with Meek winning on 18 in what turned out to be a thoroughly fantastic final. Well done to all contestants!

Dave and Rab with referee Alan Clark (who knows nothing about the rules by the way!)

 

Masters team in crushing defeat

Last week the Station Masters took on the might of the Mercantile Golf Club in the second of our annual match series. This time, the Station Masters were hosts to the opposition, and reciprocated the Merci hospitality from last year with a hearty meal back in the Club. A great time was had by all, apart from the Committee member left in charge of our team, who has allegedly not slept since. Wracked with guilt, the team captain, who shall remain nameless, appears to be laying the blame at the door of others for the poor showing of our team in the match and will accept no responsibility for defeat. Yes, Peter (Coutie) that is, made a right arse , sorry, a tactical error in his team selection which led to such a humiliating defeat.

This notwithstanding, the Committee, apart from the afore-mentioned gentleman, have decided to publish the report into the match as prepared by Mr Coutie – UNEDITED! You can therefore make your own mind up as to the state of mind of Mr Coutie:

Committee member Pete, had to do the best with limited resources available for the return match against the Mercantile.
He was given a list of ‘players’ by the club captain who decided he couldnt be bothered playing and used his experience to select the pairings. His first and inspired decision was to ditch the club sec (Elliot) and replace him with the athletic Martin Connor who gave a sterling performance from start to finish (apart from the eighteenth).
His decision in pairing the recently crowned pensioners champ with the loudest member of the club paid off with a tremendous 2 and 1 win against Yule senior and Docherty junior in the first match.
Match number 2 ended in a tie with the aformentioned Mr Connor carrying the committee member for the first half with some sterling stuff before he (committee member) decided to forget the pressures of management and play his own game birdieing the 15th into the wind and holeing a superb putt on the last to half the match.
Match number 3, initially thought to be a strong pairing (Horne and Clark) failed miserably, coming home with a 2 and 1 defeat, but to their credit they had 38 out and 38 in (they forgot it was match play).
Matches 4 and 5 (Crawford and Neilson, and Burtnett and Jeans) were much the same, both on the wrong end of a 2 and 1 defeat, a massive disapointment, another example of confusion between ambition and ability.
Match 5, another inspired decision by the committee member saw Edmonds and Spark, both caddies and golf enthusiasts come home with a fine 1 hole win.
Unfortunately a the end result was a defeat by one point for the home team.
It was agreed that Pete did a great job with what he was given and his astute selections prevented complete and utter humiliation.
The captain, who chose the players, was heard to say “It wisnae me, an auld boy did it and ran away to Canada”

 

Country Members Cup winner

The first Club Championship Trophy of the season has been won by veteran John Gamack. The Country Members Cup (affectionately referred to as the Pensioner’s Trophy), was contested this week over the Buddon Links by the youthfully challenged pairing of John (hedgeman) Gamack and Brian (pieman) Wardrope. The trophy, graciously donated by country member Graham McGee, is played for by the the more elderly membership of the Club. The popular duo slugged it out over the first few holes with little to show between the two, with neither ‘setting the heather on fire’. Referee, Peter Coutie, had his work cut out to stay focussed until the 11th hole when Gamack drilled an amazing 35 foot putt, which if it hadn’t hit the hole and dropped, would have been another 35 feet past. This then, was the writing on the wall for Wardrope who never recovered and eventually ran out a 4 and 3 loser. He does however have a chance of revenge when he and Matt Edmond take on John (Gamack that is – not Jeans) and Tam (specky weegie) Paterson, later in the week in the semi-final of the Foursomes.

Best of luck to all!

 

Links carry out engineering miracle

Carnoustie Links has carried out a spectacular engineering feat at the Championship Course. Overnight, on the eve of Tassie Week, they have transformed the 17th and 18th holes on the Medal (see photos below). As if they weren’t difficult enough already, two of the most famous holes in golf have been remodelled (changed) in an attempt to scupper the chances of even the most ardent of golfers. A spokesperson from the Links commented “We’ll sort sort out those freeloaders who think they can come here for a cheap week’s golf. The 18th is now only a 444 yard carry to the green – this will sort out the men from the boys”. The newly formed water-feature does not quite comply to the James Braid design manual but we are assured the course will be back to normal when nature decides.

(The Editor accepts no liability for the accuracy of the extent of Links involvement and alleged comments in this report)

Club Champion kicks off Tassie campaign

DAY 1

Club Champion, Willie Spark, seen here in a snazzy blue and white number, with caddie Danny Mellon in an auld combat jacket, started the re-arranged Craws Nest Tassie tournament with an early morning round over the Buddon Links.
A lack-lustre first nine saw Willie end up 11 over par at the turn despite having hit the pin at the par 3 third hole and lipping out on more than one occasion. In breezy conditions, Willie rallied on the back nine to finish with a creditable gross 78. Willie is hopeful he can pull his game together for the Championship course tomorrow which reduced is to 16 holes due to the recent adverse weather conditions.

DAY 2

A howling gale greeted the players by mid-morning with the early tee-times having had the kindest conditions. Willie got off to a chequered start and struggled for most of the round with the blustery conditions. Testament to the severity of the wind was the fact that the flag on 14 snapped and had to be replaced with a more sturdy model. Irrespective of the mediocre golf, Willie cut a dashing figure in another blue designer jacket, complemented by Danny in a fetching white and green number, as he made his way to a nett 79. With a projected cut of plus 20 being bandied about this afternoon, Willie still has an outside chance of reaching the next stage.

 

Champion to represent Club in Tassie

Club Champion, Willie Spark has been awarded a place in next month’s Craws Nest Tassie. The Tassie has been played over the famous links since 1927 and is still as popular as ever. The week begins with 2 qualifying rounds, one on the Championship Course and one on the Burnside Course. From the starting 351 players the top 64 combined scratch scores are then drawn to play matchplay through the week for the Tassie on the Championship Course. The next 64 nett scores compete for the Maulesbank Trophy in matchplay on the Burnside Course. Tassie week begins on September 6th with the final on 12th. Good luck to Willie from all at the Club.

 

Club secretary ties the knot

Unless you have been out of the Country or in a coma for the past few weeks you will know that our ‘larger than life’ secretary, Elliot (the cat) Davie and his sweetheart Barbara have finally been hitched. A large contingent of family and friends made merry at the Carnoustie Golf Hotel until the ‘early hours’, followed by several further days of distinctly unmarried-like celebration by the groom himself! Best wishes to Elliot and Barbara from all at the Club.

 

Jessica in the news again

15 year old Jessica Meek made the news again when she reached the quarter finals of the Scottish Girls championship at Lanark Golf Club last week. Jessica, who qualified 29th out of 32, beat No 3 seed Hannah McCook (Abernethy) 3 and 2 and then went on to win 2 and 1 against Natasha Qayum (Ranfurly Castle) to reach the quarters. Unfortunately, Jessica lost narrowly to Tain’s Sammy Vass, who went on to play in the final.

Vice Captain stands down from Committee

It is with regret we have to announce that Neil Holland has decided to step down from the Committee. Neil found that work commitments didn’t afford him the time he felt was necessary to carry out his duties effectively. In his 8 months on the Committee Neil has been responsible for setting up a member’s database and instigating our current e-mail Club information system. His commitment and professionalism will be missed.

Dad and daughter success in Cant Cup

Father and daughter team Dave (£18) Meek and Hannah recently competed in the Cant MacDonald Cup over Burnside Links. The Cant cup handicap competition was this year split into two handicap groupings 0 – 16 and 16.5 upwards. In the event, Dave and Hannah (pictured) won the higher handicap competition, scoring an excellent gross 86, nett 67 which beat their nearest rival by 2 shots earning the team a voucher for £90 which on the instructions of Julie, wife and mum respectively, will go the junior partner of the family team! Dave’s regular playing partner and older daughter Jessica, meanwhile ditched her dad in favour of ‘Green Tractor Man’ Nor Reid and they too did very well in the same competition, finishing with a top ten placing on net 72. Well done to all Station Masters members who took part in the competition.

Special Olympics fund raising success

The Station Hotel rocked last week to the sounds of Aberdeen cover band ‘No Hot Ashes’ who played to a packed audience ofStation Masters party-goers. The evening was a fund-raising effort for local lounge regular Cameron Crawford who is heading off to Leicester next month to take part in this year’s ‘Special Olympics’. Cameron is competing in the front crawl and back stroke swimming events and is one of over 2000 competitors taking part in the games. All competitors have to raise the money for their own expenses and with corporate sponsorship taking a tumble in the current economic climate, the £400 raised by everyone in the Station will hopefully help Cameron on his way to ‘going for gold’

 

Spring outing victory for Vice Captain’s team

Vice Captain Jim Simpson, scored a runaway victory over old rival Captain Walter Campbell in the recent 2009 Masters Spring Outing over the Buddon Course. The winning team with the best stableford score was Sandy Norrie, Rab Low, Jim Fulton and John Gamack. The individual winner and recipient of the prestigious Yellow Jacket was new Station Masters GC committee member, Peter Coutie with a nett 68. Runner-up was a rather disgruntled Rab Low who was pipped at the post following a review of the final scores. Thanks go to the Station Hotel for a lovely tea and to all those who donated prizes for the event.

Masters awayday outing to Alyth planned

The first ever Station Masters outing to a course outwith Carnoustie has been arranged for Friday 12th June 2009 over Alyth Golf Course. The day out will comprise coffe and bacon rolls on arrival at the Club. One round of golf over the famous course followed by high tea. The total cost excluding transport is £35. In order to keep costs to a minimum, it is intended to take cars – so if you can drive and take some passengers, then let us know.

There is an entry notice on the board and a £10 deposit will be required. Please make payment to Pete Coutie.

Comic Relief star drops in for a game

Top comedian and Comic Relief star, Rob Brydon, took time off his hectic tour schedule this week to unwind with a round of golf over the famous Carnoustie links. Rob is on the Scottish leg of his nationwide tour and jumped at the chance to meet up with his old friend Andy Gilbride for a few hours relaxation before performing to a full house at the Caird Hall in Dundee. Andy, accompanied by Captain Jim Simpson took on Rob and his tour manager, John Taylor, in a nail-biting match which saw the visitors securing a 2 and 1 win.

Andy later commented, “never trust a Welshman – they said they weren’t that good players so we gave them a shot a hole. After supplying them with clubs and paying them on to the course, they even hassled us at the end of the round for the £3 bet we had made on the match!”

Rob is currently enjoying great success in the hit TV sit-com Gavin and Stacey, having previously starred in comedy classics including I’m Alan Partridge, The Keith Barret Show and Little Britain. His current Comic Relief single, Islands in the Stream, featuring legendary Tom Jones is destined for the number 1 spot later this week.

Remember, if you haven’t already done so – it’s still not too late to donate money to Comic Relief.

2008

New look to Committee

A well attended Annual General Meeting last month saw some changes made to the old-guard for the 2009 playing season. No change at the top with Evelyn Christieson remaining as Hon President. Ex Captain Walter Campbell retired after his two year stint but unfortunately he was not to go quietly – some mis-guided individuals had nominated him for the post of Honourary Captain which was carried unanimously. Jim Simpson graciously accepted the post of Club Captain, whilst ‘new kid on the block’, Captain Neil Holland, was voted in as Vice Captain. There was no change to the other office bearers with Elliot Davie remaining as Hon Secretary and Andy Gilbride as Treasurer / Match Secretary. Iain Chaplain remained as an ordinary committee member while Tom Paterson stood down in favour of ‘a younger face’. To be honest – any face is younger than Tommy’s! Erstwhile troublemaker, Peter Coutie was subsequently co-opted on to the committee in the remaining seat. All new representatives were at pains to stress that they will rule (sorry officiate) in the spirit of openness and parity which has characterised the Committee to date and that any complaints from ordinary club members will be dealt with in the normal fashion!

 

Annual Dinner and Presentation of Trophies success

The third Station Masters Annual Dinner and Presentation of Trophies (2008) took place in the Station Hotel last week. Some sixty members and guests enjoyed an excellent evening with entertainment provided by guest speakers Andy Gilbride and John McSkimming, both stalwarts of the local Carnoustie Theatre Club. As usual Ivor produced a first class meal and Kathryn and staff did a great job in keeping the members supplied with soft drinks throughout the evening. We wish to point out there is no truth in the rumour that the bar ran out of bottles of Magners and George Greig had to go home early! Photographs of the evening (courtesy of Official Photographer Bob Geddes)

 

Steve Logan refuses to post new Helpful Hint

You could be forgiven for thinking that Steve Logan had been abducted by aliens. Given what seems like a perpetual holiday status these days, Steve has not posted a new Helpful Hint for several weeks now. Unbelievably, he has compounded this position by refusing to produce any new Helpful Hints while he is still involved in the Club Championships for the fear it may give his opposition an unfair advantage over him. Following Steve’s sound thrashing however, by ‘Green Tractor Man’, Norr Reid, in the last round of the Arthur Christieson Trophy, we strongly advise Steve to re-consider this stance and accept that his advice may, on some occasions, be rather difficult to follow, especially for Steve himself!

Station Masters gig raises cash for local brass band

A big audience of party-goers enjoyed the latest Station Masters live music dance in the Station Hotel last Friday. Medium Wave, fronted by Laura Johns provided the excellent evenings entertainment. A substantial sum of money was raised for the Brass Band which is competing in the forthcoming Championships in England next year………. WATCH THIS SPACE FOR FURTHER DETAILS

2007

Can anyone identify the celebrity on the 1st tee?

Take a look at the photos and see if you can spot the important person on the 1st tee of the Championship. Yes of course you’re right – its Vice Captain Simpson working extremely hard as usual. Not sure who the other guy is though, apart from Peem and Alfie. Somebody mentioned it could be Andy – but if its Andy Gilbride, he’s lost a lot of weight and grown half a futt recently. Anyway – at the risk of being sent to the Tower – only joking SIR, lovely swing!

(Thanks to Station Masters member Richard Christieson for the mug shots – all the way from Thailand!)

 

Golfing legend is presented with Honourary Membership Card

The Station Masters Golf Club first ever honourary member, Mr Peter Alliss, took time out of his hectic Open schedule to graciously accept his Honourary Membership Card. Peter met with representatives of the Committee minutes after the final putt had been sunk in the Championship play-off and chatted and signed autographs before being whisked off to another engagement at Muirfield later in the evening. Peter had hoped to meet with our members earlier in the week but TV schedules and other committments

made this impossible. Despite what you may have read in the local and national press, no other arrangements were made with Peter and he did not ‘stand us up’ as some so-called reporters would like to think. In the event, Peter made mention of our Club and the Station Hotel in his commentary and throughout his time on-air, frequently heaped praise on the course, the Town and the surrounding area, which is bound to have a marked effect on tourism in Angus. Peter has said he looks forward to visiting in the future when he will have more time to meet with our members. We look forward to welcoming him.

Weekly sweepies still taking place

The Buddon Course officially doesn’t come back ‘on-stream’ till sometime in August (forgotten the exact date). Until it does we will still be holding weekly sweepies on all courses as usual, but competition scores will be suspended on the Buddon Course, which means your handicap will not be affected no matter how bad (or good for that matter) you score. We will keep you informed when things are back to normal. The August monthly medal will probably be played at the end of August or the beginning of September. (Keep watching this space – or the notice-board for a change).

 

Golfing legend accepts Honourary Membership of the Station Masters

The Station Masters Golf Club is honoured that Peter Alliss, former Ryder Cup player and legendary golf commentator with the BBC, has accepted our invitation to become the first ever Honourary Member of the Club. In his distinguished career, Peter won 21 professional tournaments, including three British PGA Championships. He represented Great Britain in the Ryder Cup over an incredible 12 year period, from 1953 until 1965 before retiring from playing. Peter has gone on to forge a career in broadcasting with the BBC and has been described as ‘The greatest golf commentator ever’ (Golf Digest). Now in his 70s, Peter along with his partner Dave Thomas, designed our home course, The Buddon, and as we all know it has developed into a fantastic course, worthy of its place alongside the Burnside and Championship. He obviously has a hectic schedule during Open week, but we hope to present Peter with his Honourary Membership at some stage during the week – we will let you know when as soon as we know…. so keep logging-on.

Jessica Meek becomes first lady ever to win the Nicol Cup

Station Masters member, Jessica Meek (13) has become the first ever female (and first ever Station Masters member) to win the Nicol Cup in the history of the tournament. Jessica played Gary Lawrence in the final over the Burnside Course in extremely wet conditions and eventually went on to win by 2 holes. Jessica’s coach and dad, the extremely reserved Dave Meek, was overheard prior to the match to have reminded Jessica that if she didn’t win – there would be no tea for her that evening. (Only joking David!). Well done Jessica and we hope that this is the first of many trophies you go on to win.

 

Station Masters veteran bags first ace.

Station Masters veteran, Arliss Rhind claimed his first ever hole-in-one at the extremely difficult 175 yard, 13th ‘Marne’ hole on the Buddon course. Playing in the Masters weekly sweepie with usual partner Dave Ritchie against the formidable Tam Paterson and John Gamack, Arliss holed-out, using a 7-iron into a stiff breeze. This ‘ace’ comes hot-on-the-heels of that achieved in a Masters tie by local sparkie, Rab Low, only a few weeks ago. In the clubhouse after his round, Arliss excitedly recounted his shot to a spell-bound audience. Unfortunately however, in his exuberance, Arliss seemed to forget the time-honoured tradition of buying the company (including the stressed-out barman), a drink, in celebration of his feat……..

Only joking Arliss – WELL DONE!

Scene nearly set for greatest golf challenge

Carnoustie Golf Links is almost ready to receive the world’s golfing elite. June 2007, Tiger has had his bairn and is reported to be ready to play. Garcia probably won’t be crying as he leaves the 18th green this time, and Monty might manage at least one smile. Who knows, Jean Van de Velde may shock us all… again. Whatever happens, its sure to be a great spectacle and for all our overseas members who can’t make it over – unlucky!

 

Has Steve Logan finally cracked under the pressure?

Steve Logan, recently at the centre of several bizarre incidents, has been at it again (according to sources close to the illustrious pro). Last Sunday, after yet another defeat at the hands of the DCs, Steve was wandering off the course when he allegedly spotted a cap hanging on the railings at the putting green adjacent to the hotel. It was reported that Steve ran up to the cap, plonked it on his head and was heard to claim “its mine, mine, mine I tell you, I lost this cap the other day”. Understandably, Steve’s playing partners, who shall remain nameless, felt that something was amiss when a young lad who happened to be practising on the putting green, suddenly announced “some ba—rds pinched my cap!” Steve quickly took off in his van and disappeared into the sunset. Meanwhile, in a totally un-related incident, Steve and local ‘green tractor man’ Norr Reid, played against each other in the Club Championship last Wednesday. Steve eventually won the tie and went on to record the victory in the Clubhouse only to discover that he and Norr had mis-read the fixture sheet and weren’t supposed to be playing each other after all! It has transpired that Dez Muir also did not properly read the fixture list and missed his tie against Taxi George – Its little wonder Captain Campbell is the way he is today! The Committee have subsequently agreed to offer Steve, Norr and Dez a free eye test with SpecSavers.

Club Treasurer and Match Secretary dreams of higher things

Club treasurer Andrew Gilbride has never been a ‘shrinking violet’ when it comes to the big stage, He was however slightly out of his depth when last week, he came within touching distance of the famous Claret Jug. Andy, despite having been ignominiously dumped out of all the Club competitions he has played in this year, still harboured dreams of higher things (and for once this didn’t refer to some superior religious entity *). Andy was heard to say “if I only had the time to play seven days a week instead of six, maybe I would have a chance of getting my hands on this trophy. I will have to look at contracting out the ironing in the future”. We wish Andy all the best in both his quests.

* THIS IS THE VIEW AS EXPRESSED BY THE EDITOR AND IN NO WAY REFLECTS THE NEUTRAL STANCE OF THE COMMITTEE AS A WHOLE.

New temporary advice spot hits the site

Following Steve Logan’s announcement of his 6 week sabbatical, local expert gardener, erstwhile plumber and no bad fiddler, Tommy Horne, jumped at the chance to get one over on his old gardening rival Captain Campbell. When invited to guest his own gardening tips spot on our website, Tommy claimed * Wattie kens bu–er all aboot gerdnin. He uses his greenhoose for siestas in the efternin”. Tommy’s gardening tips can be found on Tommy’s Gardening Tips page.

 

Shock result in first round of Handicap Competition 

Popular local man Stan Shepherd became the first player to be knocked out of a Club Competition this season by an opponent who aced the 3rd hole on the Buddon Course. Robert (Rab) Low produced a miraculous hole-in-one at the tricky 172 yard par 3, ‘Corunna’ hole.

Club competition draws and updates available on this site (soon)

The draws for each of the Club competitions are now posted on the Club noticeboard. If you can’t make it down to the Club on a regular basis (unlike some of the committee), you can now access the draw and weekly up-dates from this site. Members contact details will soon also be available – so there will be no excuses for not playing your ties on time!

Station Masters oldest player lands starring acting role

Vintage former plumber, Tommy Horne, has beaten off all opposition to land a starring role in Carnoustie Theatre Club’s production of “Yellow on the Broom” which hits the Town next month. Station Masters Club Treasurer and Match Secretary, Andy Gilbride had been on the look out for someone to play the role of an ‘old, Angus, fiddle-playing tinkie’ and couldn’t believe his luck when Tom’s friends suggested that he would fit the bill on every count. After a brief audition and several pints from Andy, Tom landed his dream role. “Its Hollywood for me next” Tom was heard to cry. “More like Bollywood” said John Jeans.

Good luck to Tommy in his new luvvie career.

 

New Driving Range proposed for Carnoustie LinksGraeme Duncan, Carnoustie Golf Links General Manager, has unveiled proposals for a new golf driving range and coaching facility on what is currently the 1st hole of the Buddon Course. A planning application for the new facility is to be lodged with Angus Council in the near future. Mr Duncan explained that since the proposal was first mooted some 18 months ago, a great deal of research has been undertaken by the GLMC which has enabled them to revise the plans and take into account many of the concerns raised by residents, perhaps the most contentious being the initial requirement for a 10m high protective fence round the perimeter of the facility. Following extensive consultations with one of world’s leading experts in golf ball development, Dr Steve Otto, Director – Research and Testing at The R&A, Mr Duncan said that the fence would now only be required along the beach side of the proposed area and would be a maximum of 3m in height. It is thought that 6 permanent jobs would be created at the range which will provide a convenient, secure and comfortable coaching environment free of charge, to all members of the Carnoustie Golf Links junior coaching programme.

The CGLMC is keen to find out what the general public of Carnoustie think about their proposals and has asked the Community Council to conduct a survey of residents to ascertain their views. We will let you know very shortly, when and where you can complete a survey form.

Christmas Dance proceeds go to Rebecca Cottage

The Station Masters Christmas Hootenanny on the 23rd was a resounding success with tickets sold out long before the event. You couldn’t even get one on E-bay which shows how popular it was. Entertainment was provided by our old friend Lee with special appearances by Elvis and Neil Holland accompanied by The Blues Brothers. As usual, all proceeds from the shindig went to a local good cause, in this case Rebecca Cottage, at West Haven. Rebecca Cottage is a respite holiday home for Spina Bifida sufferers, owned by the Scottish Spina Bifida Association and maintained by a group of local volunteers throughout the year. It came about through the work of the late Professor Wallace and Mrs. Dorothy Park who, through their own family, came into contact with Rebecca Temperley, a young girl with Spina Bifida. Along with friends and colleagues they eventually raised enough money to enable the purchase of this extremely popular holiday home.

This week we were able to hand over a cheque for £600 to local Rebecca Cottage representatives Shona Gray and Susan Naylor. This amount was made up from the sum of £300, being the proceeds of the raffle and ticket sales for the dance, along with a most generous matching donation on the night by an anonymous benefactor, making the total £600. Captain Campbell said “the generosity of all those who attend our social gatherings has enabled us to donate so much to local good causes over the years. The spontaneous gesture of our friend in doubling the donation money on the night is heart-warming”. Shona and Susan were delighted with the donation and assured that the money would go to very good use at the Cottage.