Large field competes in Dalmally’s Senior Open
A field of almost 80 golfers contested the Senior Open at Dalmally Golf Club, with perfect conditions for those playing later in the day.
Fingers were crossed for good weather on Wednesday May 24 after last year’s open turned out to be a bit of a washout. Morning starters had to contend with heavy drizzle but those heading out in the afternoon had perfect playing conditions, with the Dalmally course in excellent condition.
Entrants contended two simultaneous competitions, the club’s Senior Men’s Championship and the Senior Women’s Open Championship.
With such large numbers, the field was split into three starting groups - morning, afternoon and early evening. This saw the last players finish their rounds at 8pm on Wednesday evening, concluding a long, but enjoyable, day.
With the help of all-day club house catering, the leading players shot some impressive Stableford scores. Coming top in the Senior Men’s Open was Kenny Devine of Glencruitten Golf Club, Oban, with 40 points. Runner up was Sammy Hutchison from Taynuilt on 39 points with Jim Carruthers from Kyles of Bute third on 38 points.
The Carruthers household did well, with Mairi Carruthers, also of Kyles of Bute, taking first place in the senior women’s competition with 37 points.
The other prizewinning places involved a close three-way tie on 31 points between Mary Philips of the Isle of Seil, Maud Marshall of Dalmally and Fiona McGlynn of Taynuilt, Mary taking second place and Maud, third on countback.
In addition to the main competition, the “nearest the pin” event was won by Rona Young and David Fraser, both showing pinpoint accuracy.
In the longest drive, Fiona McGlynn took the ladies’ prize with Adrian Nation from Dalmally taking the men’s.