The Day

Of course the day started with continuous chatter surrounding the BLEXIT – the decision to move from blue tees to white tees for BSD in wet conditions only, and continued – blah blah blah.  Tee Set’s vibrant and rebellious (though limited) democracy in action: an ongoing dance between the traditionalists and the  changers.

But let’s put all that aside for now and focus on the day.  The decision to play at BSD could not have worked out better.  Traffic was non-existent to and from the course.  Everyone started on time or before and finished well within four and a half hours, even with one or two groups being slotted in on the turn.  The recent emphasis on improving the pace of play is paying off.  Thanks to everybody for doing their bit here.

The storm clouds threatened overhead and gave us one or two drops but refused to open, allowing us all to get through a great round.  Can’t say we came out dry given the humidity, but the fast pace of play, the holiday numbers (22 players) and the weather had us all in the clubhouse, showered, watered, presented with prizes and heading home before dark…a first for a long time.

Welcome to first timer Meta – always great to welcome newcomers to golf and especially more lady members which helps VP Mel’s KPIs – also a big welcome back to Tee Set stalwarts Frank and Anna Wilson after 41 weeks away.

Big thanks to Beby for stepping in for Brenda while she was away, assisted by Ric and Lis.

The Play

Some great sub par rounds for Mark (68 to win Net A grade), Jari (66 to win net B Grade), Geoff “The Caddy Whisper” (68) and the Immediate Past President of Almost Everything with a 69, complaining he hit so many greens in regulation off the white tees, his putt count crept up to 38!  Anna’s comeback round of even par 72 was enough to win her net C grade.  New dad Jeff Landau shot a strong 78 off the stick to take Low Gross, one ahead of Coach Ken whose beard is growing bushier by the week.

In the skills prizes, Tony Wood led the way with the flat stick needing only 28 putts, equalling putting miser Mark, a good effort on greens which are still a little bumpy after coring.  Frank and Laurie shared Most Improved with a 5 shot improvement, not normally enough to win this prize, but enough today. There was no par among the 30 handicappers.  Manfred took little time to get first birdie on the second hole and Ric was to win first sandy on the third hole.  Andrew Waite was a little unlucky not to win a prize but deserves special mention for having two sandy birdies (alas not counted as sandy pars and not early enough for first birdie); the first one being a tap in after a very close sandy eagle attempt.

And now for the booby prizes and perhaps a first, with Mike scooping the pool. Yes, Monster Putter, Most Strokes and the only skirt….Mike could hardly juggle the various props for the photo…keep at it Mike, we will be there to shout you a drink when you crack that ton. As a special tribute, we have included a true action shot…note the tee is still in place a la Justin Rose.

Next Week: Sentul Highlands, Sunday 17th July, 11.30am

Thanks to Manfred and Meta for the cracker of a photo taken during their round last week.  Yes, its back to the castle, the fairway boulders and the rolling greens of Sentul Highlands.  The Gary Player designed course is becoming better each year as it grows into its surrounding landscape.  It’s a tough test of golf but the friendly staff, great facilities and stunning views make it well worth it. Register here as usual. Tee off is at 11.30am off Tee boxes 1 and 10 and green fees including carts are 750,000Rp.

Gents will be playing of the blue tees – the Treasurer may do much better this week.  Winter rules will apply.

Improving Pace of Play

Thanks to everyone for improving pace of play but we can still get better, so a couple of positive tips.

If you are unsure if your ball will be found, even if your caddy calls “AMAN”, please play a provisional.  This saves you and others the hassle of you returning to the place of your last shot. If you find your ball, great, continue with no penalty.  If you don’t find your ball, use your provisional, with one shot penalty.

Another rule that is misunderstood and can save time and strokes is the Ball Unplayable Rule (Rule 28).  It is explained in this video from USGA.   The important element of this rule is that it is solely up to the player to declare a ball unplayable. The decision to declare a ball unplayable and take a one stroke penalty cannot be contested by a fellow player. So instead of hacking away in the rough or behind a tree or boulder, wasting time and losing shots, consider your three options under the Unplayable Ball rule.

See ya Sunday.