It has been five long months since the end of last season for all golf societies, with the Abbey Panels GS being no exception, especially with the last three being so very wet.
As we all know to our cost, courses were closed and there were many restrictions in place at those that were open. Hopefully, as the new season dawns, and with a full fixture list ahead of us all, things can surely only get better for everyone.
This year marks the 35th Anniversary of APGS, after just two matches in our first year, this quickly rose to nine, and we now feature 12 venues throughout the Midlands.
Unfortunately, the company ceased trading in 2001 and for the last 23 years we have been on our own, but we are still here despite everything and still swinging those clubs, although for some of us a little slower.
We now have completed the opening match of the 2024 season, for many years Kilworth Springs has been our preferred choice for the first game of the year, which for us is always late March.
This venue holds a special, if somewhat sad significance for our society, as it is now where we play for our David Dyde Memorial Trophy which was presented to the society by his family after the sudden and untimely passing of this valued and well-respected member. Kilworth was Dave’s favourite course, and he was due to be society captain for 2018 but passed away shortly before he could take up the post.
This is always a popular and well supported fixture, and as you can see from the photograph of this year’s winner John Wright, (left) receiving the trophy from John Tomlinson, society captain for 2024, it’s one that’s a pleasure to win!
David White, Secretary – Abbey Panels Golf Society
