THE Senior’s Section at Minehead and West Somerset Golf Club have returned to action after the festive break and 2026 began in fine style for one of their members Richard Austwick.

Playing in a 666 competition, Richard managed a hole in one on the 14th par 3. Although only 97 yards tee to pin, a 5 iron was needed to combat the conditions. The elements were certainly with Richard as his ball passed the hole by some four feet only for the oncoming wind to gently nudge it down the slope and into the hole. Despite achieving 5 points for that shot, Richard’s team were not among the winners.

The honours at the end of the competition went to Steve Woodbury, John Perkings and Karl Grainger with 66 points. In second place were Dave Walmsley, Noel Munson and Malcolm Bruce with 61 ahead on countback from Martin Hole, Dave Ball and Mark Watson.

As members hurtle headlong into the New Year, Minehead Seniors began with round two of the Trafalgar Trophy. Dave Oatridge and Roger Green clearly did not allow the festivities to dull the senses as they won the round with an excellent 40 points. In second position with 39 points were Rob Poirrier and Steve Gay while Mark Ruttley and Sandy Lyons took third place with 38 points.

With the winter chill in full cry, a Stableford competition started the week. The course, although in fine condition, continues to prove challenging. The scores certainly bore this out with only Roger Read managing a score approaching par. Roger played beautifully for his nett 36 to handsomely win the competition by four points. Four players scored 32 points with Chris Durman taking second place ahead of Dave Oatridge in third. Karl Granger and Mark Watson finished 4th and 5th respectively.