“How was it?” I asked as I didn’t play today – “It was luverrrly” was the reply! Well can’t argue with that – a diverse course – lush fairways and greens vs a fair bit of desert-style gravel – Altaona, it’s had a lot of input recently and seems to be on the up. Our second time here and after the furious storms of preceding days a calm, sunny, warm day ensued. The air was fresh on the outset and the sun returned from behind the clouds. The rain had definitely softened the fairways but not much evidence was left of the recent deluge.
47 eager golfers teed off rather early, not long after sunrise which was very noticeable after the clocks going back at the weekend. The consensus was that the course was in good shape with soft, young greens – not really surprising after the previous days’ rain. Altaona requires a fair amount of accuracy on the fairways due to the layout and aligning sparsely-vegetated desert rough.
Again, this week some good scoring (and a struggler or two!):
Gold: Darren Strugnell aka “El Presidente” (pic. far left) 37 points
Silver: Denis Ryan (pic. 2nd left) 33 points
Bronze: Sten Ronsen (pic. far right) 37 points
A “Two” was secured by each of: Drew Niblock, Tony Sims, Tony Smale and Humphrey Kelleher (two weeks in a row Humphrey!) splitting the pot four ways. Nearest the Pins, with a prize of a sleeve of SMGS branded balls, were Alan Bryce, Tony Sims, Denis Ryan and Tony Smale. Best guest, also winning a sleeve of balls, was Darrell Steele (36 points). Martin Readman hit the jackpot with Birmingham on the football card.
An earlier finish to enjoy a few drinks before heading home and looking forward to a rare visit to Altoreal – a slightly further distance to visit but still a fully booked field of entries.
On a final note, our thoughts are with those who have been affected by the DANA in the Valencia region and condolences to the families who have lost loved ones. We hope they receive the assistance needed.
Winners pictured with Lee Eastman (Captain, 2nd right), Denis Ryan (Silver, 2nd left), Darren Strugnell (winning Gold and also our President!, far left) and Sten Ronsen (Bronze, far right).
