Our annual match against Lancing was once again played at the popular and picturesque club, West Surrey, with the greens and fairways in fantastic condition and playing in dry conditions. OEGS Captain, David Burt was determined to win back The Lanbourne Bowl and assembled an experienced team, a number of whom have played against Lancing on a number of occasions.

The first group of OEs to tee off included OEGS Treasurer, Ian Henley and Iryna Photiou, who were 4 up at the halfway hut and continued their good form until the 18^th  hole, winning 3 and 2. Next out were David Dunn and David Burt, who, although losing the first hole, managed to slowly build a lead over the Lancing Captain, Charles Mackendrick and his playing partner, Ian Gartshore and ended their round winning 4 and 2.

The third pairing of Peter Henley and Tony Dunn held a slim lead of one up on the front 9, which they increased to 3 up with birdies and net birdies over the next 4 holes. Their opponents dove-tailed well over the next few holes, so that the OE pairing’s lead  was reduced to 1 up on the 17^th hole (cardiac hill). The honours however were shared on the 18^th green, with single figure handicapper, Paul Finnett of Lancing sinking a 4-metre birdie putt . Tony Dunn said: “It had been a great friendly match on a course in superb condition”.

The final pairing of Colin Farrant and Mike Hutchinson, accompanied by Colin’s handsome and well-behaved dog, ‘Blue’, came up against slightly tougher opposition, only to lose 2 and 1. Despite losing his match  Colin said: “It was a very enjoyable outing, with a great golfing partner and two excellent Lancing old boys”.

The final result of the 4 matches was a win to the OEGS team with 2.5 matches to Lancing’s 1.5.

David Burt said: “ A big thank you to all the OEGS team members who helped us win back the trophy and hopefully we’ll be back at West Surrey again next year”.

The victorious OEGS team. Left to right – Peter Henley, Mike Hutchinson, Iryna Photiou, Ian Henley, Colin Farrant, David Burt, David and Tony Dunn.