Stovold Trophy: Sussex 2nd Team vs Kent 2nd Team

As September's unprecedented heatwave continued, the 2nd Team headed deep into Kent for their final Stovold Trophy match in 2023. Driving down the day before, some of the team took the opportunity for a practice round which proved invaluable. The heatwave is the longest run of 30c September days on record and Thursday 7th turned out to be the warmest day of 2023 so far, with the temperatures topping 32c (89.6f) across Kent.   

 It was tough going for the team of Suzanne Taylor; Sian Southerton (both from Bognor Regis GC); Holly Crompton (Dyke GC); Tracy Poulsom (Royal Ashdown); Sara Whittaker (Willingdon GC) & Leanne Caffyn (Ifield GC).

The morning foursomes proved a challenge on the tricky course which required accurate approach shots on every hole. Suzanne & Holly led from the front and both played well securing a win on the 18th. The final match was a challenge for Sara & Leanne against a very good Kent pairing, fighting back from an early 5 down position the pair fought back and were unlucky to lose narrowly on the 18th green. Meanwhile Sian and Tracy had an extremely close match, which was nip & tuck all the way, finally finishing all square on the 18th. 

The morning result of 1.5 - 1.5 was an excellent return for the players efforts. Time for lunch, a brief rest & rehydration, all very much needed in the blistering heat at Sene Valley Golf Club. Feeling confident we headed into the afternoon matches and the Sussex team coped well with the conditions & quickly got to grips with the green speed which had quickened from the morning rounds. Kent put up a great fight, but the singles matches were almost a clean sweep for Sussex meaning the final result was Sussex 7 and Kent 2.

Sene Valley GC were extremely welcoming and great hosts for the day and mention must be made of the courtesy and hospitality shown to both teams by the golf club.

Finally, I am grateful to all the players who have made themselves available for the County 2nd Team matches this year and played some excellent golf representing the county & wearing the “yellow shirt” with pride. 

Sally Brown
2nd Team Manager
Ifield GC

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