McMenemin and Hamilton are the perfect combination

IT'S an interesting format - 4ballbetterball - with teams competing, struggling against the course, always dependant on the vagaries of golf and the hoping for a partner that is, in golfing terms, on fire!

On Saturday at Prehen 59 teams challenged the course and themselves in the annual George Sweeney Fourball Betterball Stroke and the competition did not disappoint.

By close of play the team that had mastered the conditions, calmed their nerves and knitted together like a pensioners' summer bus run to Buncrana was that of E McMenemin and J Hamilton. Striding the fairways at an ungodly early hour they managed a 64 nett to grab top spot on break of tie from the combination of E McCourt and E Boyle who also managed 64 nett. P Semple and J McIvor carded a 65 nett to take third spot.

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Members are reminded that this Saturday is Mr Alan Montgomery's President's Day. Early booking is advisable as is watching the website for detailed arrangements.

While Mr Montgomery's presidents prize for juveniles will take place today (Wednesday), tee off from 11am. Competitors are reminded to enter their scores in the main computer and return their cards to the mens box

For further enquiries contact Eamon McCourt (0754) 291 1590.

Meanwhile the Thursday Opens at City of Derry are proving very popular with the course in such pristine condition.

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Last Thursday's substantial entry enjoyed calm conditions, lush fairways and interesting greens for most of the day. David Bratton (17) found the conditions to his likening and amassed a staggering 45 point total to gain first place and a 2 shot handicap reduction. On the day no part of David's game was found wanting.

Readers might spare a thought for long-hitting two handicapper Lester Moore whose 43 points would normally have been more than enough to take the top prize but, on this occasion, he had to settle for second.

The ultimate reward of a single shot on the course now belongs to Lester and, local bookies beware, the hot money says Lester will be off Scratch before September!

Third place on the day was impounded by Ray Phelan (15) making a welcome return to the prize-winner's circle after a break in his playing schedule. Some custom shots are reported to have the foundation of his special 42 point round.

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Chris Long (2) marked his summer holiday home with a lovely 36 point that was enough to ensure he takes the Visitor's Prize back to Newcastle.

Members and visitors are reminded that Thursday Open's continue until September 2nd, the Clooney Hall Charity teams of Four (any combination) is arranged for September 4th - book you time through the Pro Shop with Head Professional Sammy Smallwoods on 71311496 - and the annual Maurice Allen Trophy for Juvenile's takes place this Friday.

Tee off times are as follows 9am to 10.45am and 1.30pm to 3pm.