The race to Portugal concludes at Moortown
Tensions were high against the magnificent backdrop of Moortown. A tight finish to the season meant that 8 members were still in with a chance of winning the trip to Portugal.
With the players going out based on their standings in the Order of Merit there was real pressure on those at the top of the table to perform.
Moortown was the host course of the first British hosted Ryder Cup, and it provides a testing challenge over the first few holes. This provided a tentative start on the leaderboard.
It remained close throughout the front nine until a stunning spell of golf from second place, Hugh Spillane, which saw him score 13 points in 3 holes. This propelled him into a 4 shot lead and left the pack needing to produce something special to get back in contention.
The first nearest the pin competition came on the signature hole, Gibraltar. Known for it’s sloping green and intimidating bunkers, it failed to test Ashley Jacques, who found the centre of the green to set a challenging marker. As the other groups played through the hole no-one could get close.
Pressure didn’t effect Hugh on the back nine and he managed to keep the chasing pack at arms length. It became clear that he was on his way to Portugal. Hugh was last out, playing with Allan Underwood, who had led the leaderboard from the first competition of the year. Allan handled the disappointment magnanimously and they both had a great round with lots of support for each other. Allan very deservedly hit a brilliant shot into the 17th to get a consolation prize on our second nearest the pin.
As the final group played down the 18th, other Clubhouse Leaders members gathered to watch Hugh and Allan come in. Our Golf Genius software meant that everyone knew what was happening as they approached the green, and Hugh was applauded to victory in our final round of the season. The first Clubhouse Leaders Champion Golfer of the Year has been crowned.
It was a superb way to conclude our first season, one that has been full of drama, laughter and fun. We can’t wait to do it all again in 2025!
