Welcome to the Captain’s Corner for August 26. Summer is most definitely here and while conditions have been scorching the golf course remains in prime shape. It is well watered, green and impeccably maintained, so a huge thank you goes to our green keeping staff and the entire team at Higuerón Marbella Golf Resort for looking after us so well through the summer heat.
As always, it has been a busy and action-packed period at the club.
Costa del Sol Seniors League
While the league takes a breather during the peak summer months, we managed to fit in one fixture since our last newsletter and what a match it was. Playing La Cala at home, a local derby match, the team put on a masterclass to secure a memorable 5.5 – 3.5 victory. A big congratulations to Marwan Tarazi and Terry Orritt, who both made their league debuts and contributed massively to the team effort. Also, a special mention for Roger Kemp and John Collins, who won all 3 points in their match to earn the title of our new dream team. Our away fixture against La Cala is now confirmed for 4th November.
In the meantime, we are gearing up for the league restart with a high-stakes double header against La Duquesa at Home on 2nd and away on 4th September.
Competition for places in the team is fierce, and we are brimming with confidence as we move towards the league run in.
Matchplay Knockout Competitions
The Singles knockout competition has delivered high drama over the last few months, setting up two mouth-watering semi-finals.
Reigning champion John Collins survived three difficult ties. Facing the youthful energy of James Robertson, Gareth Thurlow, and the heavily fancied Stephen Gilks, the two time winner showed incredible competitive grit and course knowledge to win all three matches. He now faces one of the tournament favorites Roger Williams in the semifinal in a blockbuster rematch of last year’s final.
On the other side of the draw Ex Captain Roger Kemp wasn’t able to pull off an upset against myself. That set up a tense quarter-final match for me against the big hitting Marcel Schoenmakers, which came down to 18th green, where I managed under enormous pressure to sink the deciding putt and book my spot in the second semi-final against one of our finest Cornish golfers, Andrew Farrant. Nae luck Marcel, James, Gareth, Roger and Stephen but remember there is always next year.
With the silverware and massive prizes now within touching distance for the final four, good luck to the remaining players.
Key Upcoming Dates
The Club Championship is confirmed for 14th and 16th September. As always, it is played over two days and remains one of the most prestigious titles of the year. Members are already putting in the practice hours, so expect a tightly contested as we are aiming for a record attendance this year to discuss the exciting future of the club.
Social Events
I am delighted to report that the club has hosted some fantastic social events over the past few months.
First up for me was a 9-hole Texas Scramble competition, played in the cooler evening air and followed by a delicious BBQ on the main terrace and excellent prizes for the lucky winners. It was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone who took part, and it is being repeated on Saturday 22nd August so make sure to book your slot.
The club also hosted a unique Night Golf tournament. This was played in total darkness over 4 holes guided only by illuminated tee boxes, torches, and glow-in-the-dark golf balls, it proved to be an absolute fantastic evening. A fun night was had by all.
The Sunset Sax Experience on Saturday 8th August was another great evening at the club. There was no golf on this occasion, but with live saxophone music, incredible food, great service and breathtaking views over the Mediterranean a great night was enjoyed by everyone.
It has been fantastic to see so many social events open to everyone. These events have offered a welcome escape from the hectic summer crowds in Marbella and all along the coast, allowing us to relax in a friendly, comfortable setting right here at the club.
Finally, our Monday, Wednesday, and Friday members’ competitions continue to thrive. Whether you are looking for serious competition or a casual round there is always a spot open for you.
See you at the club!
Jan Zadruzynski
Club Captain
