CAPTAIN'S REPORT - MARCH 2024

This is only my second report since taking office in October – no wonder we’ve probably only had two dry days to report on!!! According to Yorkshire Water, we have had double (205%) the normal rainfall for this time of year, so no wonder we have had some issues.

England golf have just issued a carte blanche extension of preferred lies (I wish) from 30th April to 31st May – so that says something about the state of English golf courses. All that said, the Council is not standing still and we are considering options to improve our drainage.

The Winter League has been well supported this year especially given the conditions. Thanks to all those hardy souls and congratulations and good luck to our finalists A Mear and J Lavin vs J and J Panther.

Clearly due to the weather there have been a lot of issues around course closure etc. Myself and the Vice Captain have, with Councils agreement, established a new process around Course Closure which ensures we are compliant with legislation and passes decision making to the professional Greens Staff rather than an amateur Captain, which changes each year. Hopefully ensuring more consistency of approach.

For details please see :- https://cleckheatongolfclub.co.uk/competition-information/   - bottom of the page headed Course Conditions. We have had a few senior members (who have tried to help by carrying half a set),  expressing dismay at both visitors and members using electric trolleys full of clubs etc. Please continue to try to help – it’s been a long wet winter, trust me, I know it’s frustrating.

The new WHS rules take effect on 1st April. Nothing for you to do competition wise, but for more info please look at the website :- https://cleckheatongolfclub.co.uk/course/world-handicap-system-whs/. Also the new Handicap tables are on the website follow the same link – it’s a good idea to keep them on your phone. New boards will be going up on or around 1st April.

Steve Passey
Captain.