On a beautiful Algarve morning, almost 60 SICG members took part in the 2022 President's Cup. Fortified on the 1st tee with whisky, or port (or both!), many of the impressive opening drives provided the promise of a keenly fought contest over the immaculate Silves course. By the end of the competition play, the high standard of golf was reflected in the statistical evidence of more than half the field returning scores of at least 30 points. Even more impressive was that the winner and runner-up both scored in the 40s, reflecting fantastic performances in the latest SICG 'Major' competition.

 

In 3rd and 4th place respectively, Paulo Azevedo and Heli Ilves both returned to the clubhouse with a very commendable 37 points, with Paulo's better inward 9 separating him from Heli. The very top of the leader board, however, was even further enhanced by two players with fantastic scores in excess of 40 points. Early starter, Julian Lyons looked like lifting the cup with his tremendous 41 pound safely secured in the SICG Card Box for most of the day. However, as the competition reached the closing stages, Ken Williams then presented a phenomenal, personal best, score of 42 points, to become the very worthy winner of the SICG President’s Cup.

 

Ken was presented with the trophy at the prize-giving Dinner on Saturday evening, when members and guests gathered to celebrate another memorable golfing occasion at Silves. Heli, and Paulo collected their awards, with Paulo also receiving the Men’s’ Nearest the Line prize; and the Ladies’ Nearest the Pin award was presented to Breege O’Connell. Other prize winners were Volker Lankenau (Mens’ Nearest the Pin), and Judith Greenwood (Ladies’ Nearest the Line).

 

We’ll done to everyone who participated in the competition on Friday, particularly the prize winners, and of course with special congratulations to Ken Williams! The presentation dinner was enjoyed by everyone in attendance, and sincere gratitude is extended to various people for their great work to ensure that the event was so successful. In particular, thank you to Sue Hagland for typically impressive arrangements and preparation; also, to Rikki Huddleston, and Vice Captain, Margot Huddleston. Particular thanks are also due to Captain Brendan O’Connell, as well as Breege O’Connell, for invaluable input to both Friday's golf, and also Saturday’s dinner.

 

It is also appropriate to pay tribute to not only the club members who helped when two members required assistance on Friday due to illness and injury, but also the Pestana staff for their calm professionalism and expertise. Happily, I’m pleased to confirm that both members are now doing well. Finally, it is my pleasure to convey deep, personal gratitude to absolutely everyone who participated in Friday's competition, and/or Saturday's social event, to ensure a highly successful 2022 edition of the SICG President's Cup.

 

Very best regards.

 

President Tom Callan