Match v Old Cliftonian Golfing Society

Review

This match, postponed from April 2020 by Covid, was played at the Bristol & Clifton club, home to a substantial number of Cliftonians.  And, exactly as happened in the corresponding ‘home’ match at Burnham & Berrow in 2019, the contest finished in a tie.  Maybe that tells us something about the historically close relationship between the two schools.

The format of play decided by our opponents was American Greensomes which, for a predominantly foursomes society like the RGS, took a little time to fathom out.  However, Rugbeians being the most adaptable of creatures soon got the hang of it and a great time was had by all.

The top match had Christopher Gabbey and Peter Strother Smith teeing off against two excellent Clifton lads who were probably young enough to be their grandchildren!  Youth soon began to prevail and they were 4 up after 8 holes.  Although a mini fightback followed, defeat could not be avoided.

Two matches were then halved with Robert Derry-Evans partnering Nick Hills and Robin Staunton playing with Tim Stubbs.

Luckily the cavalry, or perhaps it was two faithful old cart horses, arrived in the shape of Jock Fraser ably carried by Charles Walker and they stormed home to victory, thus saving a few blushes, particularly those of your correspondent.

Roll on 2022 and back to Burnham & Berrow.

Peter Strother Smith