
On a fine day at Royal Melbourne, our popular Presidents Trophy returned to its regular venue with players enjoying the course in great winter dormant conditions.
Secretary Kim Hastie welcomed the field, acknowledging regular players, the several past winners and the new members attending.
With a condition of 7 clubs only, nine holes of stroke was played in the morning with the top 4 nett scores progressing to the matchplay in the afternoon.
With the help of the Pro Shop, the top four scores were determined and announced at lunch.
For the sudden death matchplay, play was on the East Course and results came quickly.
Top qualifier with a score of Nett 37 was Guenter Oechsle, playing fourth qualifier Geoff Knight (38 c/b) with Geoff winning on their first hole.
In the other match, second qualifier John Trevorrow (38 c/b) played third qualifier and 2017 Runner up Richard Fellner (38 c/b) and despite playing from two bunkers Richard prevailed on their first hole.
So, finalists Geoff and Richard progress to their first hole the 3rd East (due to the 2nd being out of play) Richard set himself up with a great drive while Geoff found himself short right.
Richard followed up with great iron into the green and a favourable bounce saw him sit comfortably for two and a certain Par, and Geoff could not match the shots and Richard wins his first Presidents Trophy.
After golf drinks were enjoyed as President Graeme Ryan presented the trophy to Richard
We expect to see Richard participating in many more events as he informed us after 15 years as Editor of the Inside Golf Magazine he has retired from the role.
Our congratulations to Richard for the many years heading up and producing the widely circulated publication.
The Society thanks all staff involved for a successful and enjoyable day at Royal Melbourne.
Kim Hastie Hon Secretary – July 2021