Hartley and Palmer edge out rivals to reach finals

JOHN Hartley and Chris Palmer will represent Derllys Court Golf Club in the national final of the Wales Golf Seniors Greensomes competition at Morlais Castle, Merthyr Tydfil, in September after a close finish in the home course qualifier.

A steady start of five consecutive pars saw them finish the front nine holes on just three over par. And despite a double bogey on the 10th, a final score of six over par, worth 42 stableford points, saw them edge into first place on countback from K Huw L Jones and Michael Thomas thanks to a birdie on the 18th hole.

Clive Jones and Winston John repeated their performance from last year when an identical score of 41 points earned them third place once again.

In a tight contest, Tom Thomas and John Phillips finished one point behind, with Nick Argue and Jeff Jones and Huw Hafod Jones and Geraint Roberts both tied on 39.

Later in the week, captain Tony Wood led the way in the seniors’ team match against Glyn Abbey when he recorded a convincing 5&4 victory with partner Idwal Thomas in the opening match.

With the course in great condition and the weather fair, there were further wins for Hugh Thomas and Phil Jones (3&2), Nicky Goldsmith and Chris Palmer (4&3), Phil Rogers and Graham Owens (5&4), Nick Argue and Chris Evans (1up), Alan Hire and Paul Gibbs (4&2), and a halved match for Wayne Causon & Clive Jones.

The team’s current good home form will face a stern test this week when Haverfordwest are the visitors.