Cirencester Golf Club

ON New Year's Day more than 90 Cirencester Golf Club members braved the elements to support the annual Captains' Drive-In.

The traditional event involves the newly-elected captains of each section, plus the president and the resident professional, individually driving off the first tee.

Prior to the event, the MC – Trevor Hing MBE – organised a charity fund raising draw to predict the overall total driving distance for all six participants.

First up was the new president, Gordon Robbins, who set the standard by powering one of his accurate and precise drives up the first fairway. Once the roar of the crowd had died down, it was the turn of the ladies' captain Paula Lester-Powell, who showed you don't need power and speed but a smooth silky swing to gain the same distance and position on the fairway.

Next up was club captain Mark Woodhead who visibly radiated confidence and presence on the tee and subsequently drove approximately 200 yards, but unfortunately for Mark the ball finished up in the trees.

Never mind, the seniors' captain Clive Bennett, under his son's guidance, managed to reach the 190-yard marker with his shot, which is not bad for a pensioner.

Juniors' captain Mitch Caunt and club professional Ed Goodwin both lived up to expectations and did not let the team down by both driving in excess of 240 yards each.

A tremendous effort by all players considering the pouring rain and blustery conditions.

The day was completed with mulled wine and nibbles for everyone and the club captain finished proceedings by presenting the prize for guessing the combined driving distance to Jan Stephens.