Farrington Park’s Mixed Section held its last competition of 2019, a Pairs Greensomes format but with the added twist of double points being on offer at four of the Duchy course’s more difficult holes. Each pairing had to draw their double points holes before starting their round.

Fourteen couples started the round in sunny weather condi- tions, but this quickly deteriorated two hours later when a mini whirlwind of rain, hail and gusty winds hit the course and continued for about fifteen minutes. Some couples were fortunate to find shelter, but others found themselves facing the brunt of the weather on more exposed parts of the course. At that point, many couples decided to ‘call it a day,’ and headed for the warmth of the clubhouse, but others carried on to complete their rounds.

After everyone had dried off, many changed into fancy dress clothing and headed for the ‘19th Hole’. Father Christmas was seen, with a sack of sweets on his back, choosing his favourite tip- plefromthebar...

A quiz on a Christmas theme was organised by Steve ‘Paxman’ Symonds after the tasty two course festive meal, and much hilarity and head-scratching ensued whilst couples attempted to answer the questions correctly. The quiz winners were Margaret Seery and Jon Coates.

The fancy dress competition was judged by the serving staff. An honourable mention goes to Alan Fussell for his splendid elf costume; Jane and Tim Waller dressed as Mr and Mrs Christmas. However, marching in to the bar in regimental formation were a pair of toy soldiers, aka Sue and Dave Forshaw. Their superb uni- forms, handmade by Sue, meant they got the medal for the best costume.

After all this jollity, the golf competition results were announced. Nearest the Pin prizes went to Mandy Hobbs on the fifteenth hole and Tim Waller on the eighth. Steve and Mandy Hobbs scored 38 points to take fifth place in the Festive Greensomes, beaten on countback by Dave and Sue Forshaw. Forty-one points secured third place for Steve and June Symonds.

Congratulations go to Phil McKenny and Hayley Bullock, who played in their first Mixed Competition and scored 42 points to take second place. The winners, with a great score of 44 points, were Shane Phelps and Gail Proctor.