Macca Nears 80 as San Miguel GS Takes the Long Way Round

As autumn arrived and holidaymakers returned to the UK, traffic towards Murcia remained undeterred. Clear skies and warm temperatures (31°C) greeted the participants of the Club Championship Medal competition, which included a Spanish Federation competition led by Ramona, the new Caddy Master. Altorreal course showcased excellent conditions, although the back nine presented challenges due to dry surfaces and tricky putts.

The round, however, took longer than expected due to a slow pace ahead of the group, making it one of the slowest rounds the reporter could recall.

Two celebratory moments provided a lift: Guy Wade Palmer's birthday, with a rendition of "Happy Birthday", and the milestone birthday of Alan Macdonald (who was soon to turn 80). The clubhouse buzzed with cake and a sweet sugar boost. A big thank you went out to Ramona and the staff for their assistance and warm welcome.

Despite the day's exhaustion, there were standout performances. The division winners were: Gold - Darren Strugnell (69 net), Silver - Sean Nevin (74 net), and Bronze - Richard Cleary (72 net). Three players achieved a double (Two), attributed to Drew Niblock, Darren Strugnell, and Peter Turbefield. Nearest the Pins was won by Gavin Parke, Darren Strugnell (twice), and Peter Turbefield.

Macdonald, feeling his wine fridge's need for reinforcements, brought home the McBride Bottle. Jimmy Skelly successfully predicted Hartlepool during the football card. For further updates on SMGS, visit www.smgs.org. Sponsorship opportunities are available, and contact smgs91info@gmail.com for inquiries. The official SMGS winners' photograph was replaced by a group photo of the birthday boy and his companions, whose combined ages surpassed 300 years.