Ritchie elected Captain at Lambeg

Honorary Secretary, Darren McShane mentioned in his report about the amazing improvements that have taken place to the course over the past two years and the continuing work being carried out by Lisburn City Council. This incoming year will mostly be further improvements to the drainage and sanding. It is a great honour for the club and Lisburn City Council that the G.U.I. has asked for the Pierce Purcell Shield to be played at the course on May 11 2014 and confirms the hard work was all worthwhile. Darren went on to thank the Sponsors of the weekly competitions and how important they are to the club.

When most clubs are losing members, Lambeg Golf Club had 22 new members last year and with something similar expected this year, the club continues to grow from strength to strength. He announced the retirement of founder member and Past Captain, Jim Robinson from the council and thanked him for his hard work in the past. The members showed their appreciation with a great round of applause. Finally Darren thanked the various committees and the outgoing Captain David Hilland for the hard work throughout the year.

Honorary Treasurer, Alan Crockard produced an excellent detailed financial report and was well accepted by all those present.

Outgoing Captain David Hilland could not believe how quickly the last year has went. He particularly enjoyed representing the club at the various G.U.I. competitions, including the Max Hadden Trophy and the G.U.I. Ulster Branch Centenary dinner at the City Hall. After thanking the team captains for their efforts, David went on to thank the green keepers and in particular Robert Hamilton for the excellent work they have done and continue to do on the course. He thanked everyone for their support on his Charity Day and finally wished the new Captain every success for his year ahead.

In his acceptance speech the new Captain Ritchie Gorman said that it is only when you get involved in the committee that you realise how much work goes on in the background by the various council members and that they could not be thanked enough. Ritchie went on to say he believes he is taking over the captaincy at the best possible time with the club having a very strong council,increasing membership and the course in the best condition it has ever been in. He also hopes he can keep up to the high standard set by the previous captains and encouraged members to get involved in the various G.U.I competitions.

After wishing everyone a very enjoyable year he then announced John Greeran as the Vice-Captain for the incoming year and this was well accepted by all present. The following positions were then elected.

Hon. Secretary, Darren McShane, Hon. Treasury, Alan Crockard, Match and Handicap Secretary, Stephen Boyd. Two new council members, Craig Tiffen and Stephen Johnston.

The Winter League continues until March 16 with 15 holes. The new season begins on Saturday March 23 with the Lambeg Championship and new members are still very welcome. Details of fees etc., can be obtained from the shop at Aberdelghy or on the website www.lambeggolfclub.co.uk.