IT was generally thought that there would be some easy pickings at the course this weekend, with all the guns playing at Serpentine in the State Sand Greens Championship.

How wrong can you be, judging by the scores all the good golfers stayed home.

Newcomer Paul James made a mockery of the handicappers assessment of his ability, coming in with an incredible 51 stableford points.

Paul did not have it all his own way as Greg Stephens

came in with an equally impressive 48 points.

Not to be outdone, stand-in captain for the day Warren Holt produced 46 points. Warren, visibly affected after a heavy night out, scored 18 points on the first nine holes and when the fuzzy feeling went away he charged home over the last nine holes with a magnificent 28 points or 32 off the stick, scoring birdies on holes seven, eight and nine.

In this sort of form Ken Adams’ course record of 69 is

definitely in danger. Bob Stephens showed some of the

form expected from him, returning 41 points.

Novelties went to B Patterson, N Broom, W Holt, W Gibb, A Gath and K George.

The members are most appreciative of the goodies supplied by master chef Wayne Gibb, he outdid himself on Saturday with his terrific chocolate cake.

Members are advised there will be a working bee at the golf club this Friday to tidy up the course for the coming men’s and women’s open days.

This week’s competition is the all-important fourth qualifying round, players’ last chance to make the top eight.

It is the final round for the captain’s trophy for the best nett score over three rounds.

There are about 10 golfers in the running to take out this prestigious award.

Play will be followed by the announcement of the qualifying eights then by a bangers and mash tea. Families are most welcome to the tea but are asked to advise Jan Painter of numbers on 9861 1687.

Hit off times will be from around 11.45am.