Mossel Bay retains G Cup

In a nailbiting event that was almost called off due to very unusual and severe weather conditions in George last Sunday, 32 brave lasses battled to the bitter end, in the annual "mini Ryder Cup" competition between Mossel Bay and George women golfers.

This event has been held for the past four years and has grown in popularity and in eager competition.

To qualify for participation in the team, players must accrue points during the year for achievement in their regular club events.

Teams are made up of 16 players from each club, chosen very much in the Ryder Cup style, on these points accumulated, with two players being "Captain’s picks". The event is made up of three nine-hole games, each counting for a point or a half-point for the team. The first game is a betterball matchplay, the second is foursomes (alternate shots) matchplay and the third game is singles (again in Ryder Cup tradition).

The day is played for a trophy, the Gloria Cup, which is won by the team amassing the most points on the day. In the event of a draw, the club which last held the cup, retains it. The morning started with 32 enthusiastic women dressed in team regalia, issuing their "war cries" in a clear challenge of things to come.

Play began in light rain, but after an hour or so the heavens turned dark and Thor started airing his views; this was still not enough to intimidate these tough golfers, but when lightning began illuminating the skies all around, the siren went off and it was decided to halt play.

Fortunately, this was short lived, and in no time play resumed after a heavy downpour of always welcome rain. Just to add some spice, the weather then became sweltering and protective clothing was peeled off and the ice brought out.

Happily none of the above deterred or impeded the enthusiasm and wonderful camaraderie that this event inculcates.

The results were anticipated one by one as they became known, again with excitement and trepidation, and in the end, Mossel Bay was thrilled to retain the cup with a 17-15 margin.

The trophy was handed back to the Mossel Bay team after a lovely meal and a few celebratory and well-earned thirst quenchers, the winner no doubt being the game of golf and lasting friendships.