Veteran golfers prove age is no handicap

Veteran Golfers prove age is no handicap

Veteran golfers Frank Rogers, Brian Woodhall and Joyce Trinder proved that age is no handicap by winning the 2004 Reaseheath Vintage Open.

The three were winners of the tournament, run by HND Golf Course Management students at Reaseheath College, Nantwich, and limited to those aged over 60.

The Stableford competition was held on the college's commercial nine hole golf course. The competitors, who included three ladies, were also able to take part in putting and pitching competitions.

Frank, a 73 year-old retired stonemason, received the over 70s' trophy from President of Reaseheath Golf Club Geoff Oakes. He also won a round of golf for four at the Belfry championship golf course in Sutton Coldfield.

He said: "This was a marvellous day and the atmosphere was fantastic. The students have been wonderful hosts and the course was in top class condition. The preparations had obviously been a real team effort."

Brian, the winner of the 60 - 70 age group, is a member of Prestbury Golf club. He won a round of golf for four at the Pryors Hayes Golf Club, Tarvin.

Winning lady Joyce, a member of Sandbach Golf Club, said: "The tournament was great fun and the standard of competition was high."

Announcing the winners, Geoff Oakes thanked sponsors including John Hammond of sand and gravel provider Bathgate Leisure, Pryors Hayes Golf Club and the Belfry golf club.

Proceeds of over £300 went to charity Cancer Research UK.

The golf course management students are assessed on their organisation of the competition as part of their final studies.

Photo: Frank Rogers celebrates his win with the student organisers, watched by sponsor John Hammond (left) and lecturer Phil Sharples (2nd left).