Interclub 20 June 2022 v Sandhurst at Patterson River Wrap
We arrived in day light for a change, albeit first part of the journey in darkness. It’s always a longer drive down Nepean Highway to get to Patterson River than you think. My phone beeped with messages from the players letting me know they had arrived. Arriving early the players were keen as mustard. I could feel a calmness in the players, going about their routines with confidence.
Our first cab off the rank was Cath Shallue. It was Cath’s first Interclub match for the season. She’s chosen Interclub over work, thank you! Cath had to give her opponent 3 shots but that didn’t faze her. Hitting solid drives down the middle of the fairway saw the No 1’s away. Cath opponent was a very friendly bubbly person, a delight to play. One down at the turn didn’t concern Cath. Now settled she didn’t lose a hole on the second 9. What an awesome effort, really digging in the heals. Apparently the Rules Official asked them to slow down! The 3 minute count down clock was never required. Cath finished a solid 2 up at the 18th.
Next player was our No 2 Suzanne Douglas. She warmed up on the first hole with a halved hole and really never looked back after that. Suzanne’s opponent had to give her 1 shot, but as it turned out she really didn’t need it. Her opponent was a bit shaken by Suzanne’s long drives, great approach shots and wonderful putting. 5 up on the turn certainly put her opponent under enormous pressure, and although she rallied and played better on the second 9, the gap was too great and Suzanne finished 6/4 up with a very impressive style. Congratulations Suzanne, your power golf is impressive.
Chris Gorman playing at No 3 was sensational. Nick named Cool Calm Chris by her Caddy Sue Bourke. Having to give her opponent 2 shots was no concern. Chris literally blitzed her opponent driving straight down the fairway avoiding all of Patterson River’s menacing bunkers and water. Patterson River has more water than the PGA West Stadium Course! Chis was often in prime position to chip onto each hole and completed with very accurate putting. Chris claimed victory early winning 9/7. A walk in the park Chrissy.
Up to our No 4, Jane Tang. Jane’s match was a very evenly fought one. Swinging one up, square, one down all morning. After her opponent chipped in on the 13th hole (our 4th) to halve the hole, Jane was shaken a bit, losing the next hole. But Jane battled on. The hole Jane had to give a shot on she halved, a great effort. It is a delight caddying for Jane as she never gives up and she is always gracious when her opponent plays great shots. Well done today, she eventually lost on the 18th hole. Well fought Jane.
Our No 5 Lisa Han playing her first Interclub match for 2022 started a little nervously but found her composure after two holes. Lisa had to give 3 shots to a player who was having a day out playing very consistent golf. Lisa was 5 down on the turn but never gave up. She won the next hole to make a mini comeback but was unable to reduce the deficit finishing 5/4 down. Lisa played very well but was unlucky to play against someone in such good form on the day. Never say die hey Lisa.
I would like to thank the caddy’s, Sue Taylor (special mention to welcome her to Team Interclub), Anne Brookes, Sue Bourke, Wendy Sharpe and David Turner. Your valued support is precious.
Lastly, I’d like to thank the wonderful group of women in the Team Interclub squad for their positive and harmonious vibe. The camaraderie between the players is special. Not all the players have met before however they have bonded really well and truly support each other. Thank you too for your kind messages of support for me, it’s a privilege to be part of this group. I know it’s great to win, that’s why we play, but honestly the winning is happening because of the Team Spirit.
Team Interclub is sitting 1st on the ladder after a solid 3/2 win.
Congratulations.
Wendy Sharpe

