The Vale Golf & Country Club Seniors held their first Open of 2024 when the rain finally subsided.

Teams from across the UK convened at the picturesque International Course on Wednesday, April 24, participating in a day of friendly competition and charity fundraising.

In total, 26 teams composed of four players from 20 different clubs participated, playing off 85 per cent of their individual handicaps in a team format.

The top team comprised of Brian Leggott, Arthur Collingwood, Mick Lewis and Steve Peacock of The Vale Golf Club, scoring an impressive 82 points.

Securing a close second, the Brickhampton Golf Club team – Ian Castle, Barrie Evans, Chris Gardner and Mike Brown – amassed 80 points.

Rounding out the top three were Erle Andrews, David Kent, Ian Macrae and Andy Vale from Worcester Golf Club/The Vale with 79 points.

Of particular note, Denis Husband of Ullesthorpe Golf Club was the standout player achieving the Nearest the Pin title and scoring a two on the fifth hole.

Throughout the day, a raffle was held, thanks to members who generously donated prizes.

An impressive £515 was raised, with all proceeds going directly to Parkinson's UK.

Following their first Open, Vale Golf Club Seniors, which is open to players aged 55 and above with limited handicaps, has a series of events planned.

Future events to be held on the International Course include the Seniors Individual Open on Wednesday, May 22, the Seniors Pairs Open Stableford Better Ball on Wednesday, July 3, and the Seniors AM/AM Team Open with two scores to count on Wednesday, September 18.

In other golfing news, 58 players battled for the Kirkpatrick Cup on Monday, April 29, with David Hamilton emerging triumphant as he scored 43 points.

Other notable performances included Peter Azizi, Brian Brumhead, and Duilio Perla, who took the top three spots in Division 1.

Meanwhile, Ian Cutler and Neil Thomson came second and third respectively in Division 2 behind Hamilton.

In Division 3, the leading players were Colin Bartlett, Alan Watson, and Martin Foley.

For updates on further events, golf enthusiasts are invited to get in touch with John Weight, the competition's secretary, via weighty1952@gmail.com.