Just what is it...
about our club that makes it special? The view from the 9th tee on a summer evening?
The peace and quiet of the 14th green? Walking up the 18th after a great round? Perhaps it’s the laughter, mirth and mischief-makers in the clubhouse? I guess every one of us will have different reasons for being a member here. Me? I just love the place.
Like those who have served before me, being asked to be Captain of our club is an honour. However, I do admit to having swung between feelings of pride, humility, excitement and trepidation during the past two, long years spent as Vice-Captain.
I must place on record thanks, admiration and respect to our outgoing Captain, John Fromings. To say things have been difficult for John would be an understatement – he has held office through the toughest period the club has ever faced yet managed to do this with a smile and no small measure of dignity. Thank you, John.
Having returned to the Committee for the first time since 2008, I have seen first-hand the unswerving effort and, for the most part, unseen hard work carried out on a daily basis by the officers. Our President, Mr. Phil Smith, continues to work tirelessly on our behalf, as do all the secretaries and other committee members. Tom and the boys from the Pro-Shop have kept us all going through restrictions and Mark and his team continue to keep the course in the best condition possible despite the increasingly wet winters. Tina, Carla, Charlotte and the girls keep us fed and watered in the clubhouse and Barrie’s artistic skills continue to brighten things up for everyone - literally.
My charity for the year is the National Autistic Society- the UK’s leading charity supporting people on the autism spectrum and their families, providing support, guidance and advice and helping to create a society that works for autistic people. If you can help in any way, your generosity will be very much appreciated.
Returning to my earlier question, I think Bradley Park definitely means something slightly different to each of us. We may all strive for slightly different things – sub-70 rounds, a sweet swing, 300- yard drives, drop & stop chip shots or killer putts - but ultimately, we strive together, as members of the best golf club in the district bar none.
There is plenty to look forward to for the new season, hopefully some nice summer weather and the odd good round – maybe even a purple patch winning streak? So, I look forward to seeing you all on the course and in the clubhouse over the next 12 months, especially for Captain’s Day on Saturday 16th July for an evening of music and perhaps a little bit of dancing too.
All the very best – John Flaherty, Captain