A MESSAGE FROM THE CAPTAIN - April 2008

As I compile this article the weather outside is freezing cold with trees covered in frost, not exactly the best time to be thinking about the new golf season. However, spring will soon be here and as soon as “he upstairs turns the heating up” then I’m sure many golfers will be out playing again following their annual hibernation.

Many Members continued playing throughout the winter and a number of excellent results in the Harrogate and District Winter Alliance series have been achieved. Graham Ogilvy and Bob Fawbert at Ripon GC and Jon Ganderton and Joe Nalder at Knaresborough GC have been successful whilst Lawrence Poulter and Peter Brown at Romanby GC and John Ward and Ray Booth at home at Rudding Park were narrowly beaten into second place. Congratulations to them and a number of other Rudding Park members who have finished in the “placings” at these events.

Every two years the game’s governing body, the R & A, reviews the rules of golf. Many of our golfers will have seen the updated 2008 rules books which are available in the members’ lounge. To increase the awareness of golf rules a number of our club competitions will include a rules questionnaire which will be issued after a golfer has completed their round.

Another important event will be the first of our “major” status competitions. The concept of elevating a number of club events to “major” status is new for 2008. The “Spring Cup” will be held on Sunday 27 April with a trophy being awarded to the winner.

Entry forms for the popular summer Knock-Out competitions have also been issued and copies are available throughout the Clubhouse. After the closing date for entries the draw for each event will be made and posted in the “games room”. The conclusion of the summer Knock-Outs is Finals Day which will take place on 13 September.

I would like to mention the Captain’s chosen charity for 2008. The theme will be Arthritis related and I am exploring ways though which we can incorporate donations and money raised to the direct benefit of Harrogate District Hospital. I trust everybody will continue to support this fund raising activity including through the collection box at the half way house for anyone participating in the bunkers at the 8th.

Finally the year’s golfing programme at Rudding Park is packed with competitions for every golfer. On behalf of the committee, we hope everyone has an enjoyable golfing season.

Barry Whitley
Captain

Seasonal Offers

Four is a Magic Number

You and three friends could be playing golf at Rudding Park for just £99 this Summer. We are offering a special rate on the 18 hole Hawtree course for June, July and August of only £99 per fourball, subject to availability. Tee times can be booked up to two weeks in advance by calling the golf shop on 01423 872100.

Stay at Rudding Park Hotel and take advantage of our special summer golf rates. Click here for more details.

ON LINE BOOKINGS
To reserve your tee time on either the Hawtree Course or the Repton Short Course, please click here.