Page 206 - MBS 2022/23

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www.raptcassociation.org.uk
Another great year for Army Sport and in particular RAPTC Golf. The trend of motivated individuals getting up and out for a game of golf continues to flourish. More than 2 years on from Covid and RAPTC Golf continues to grow with new RAPTCIs showing interest every year.
The 2022 season started off well with our annual fixtures against 11 Signal Regt playing at Dorset GC, utilising a team of both Serving and Association members led by WO2 (QMSI) Steve Turner, the RAPTC came away with our first win of the year.
The long-lasting connection between the RAPTC and Petersfield GC thanks to Lt Col (Retd) Barry Lillywhite continues to grow, the annual matches were held at two great locations this year, both Petersfield and Paulton’s GC, Retired and Association winning at Petersfield and Serving winning at Paulton’s GC.
May saw the arrival of the hotly contested annual Festival of Golf (FoG), this year it was held at the prestigious Nottinghamshire Golf and Country Club. This event brings together all serving and retired Association members and guests for the 2-days of golf and awards. This year saw some truly amazing golf from individuals that have been putting in the work during the build up to the comp. WO2 (QMSI) Ian Lester had an epic 2 days taking away most stableford points overall. Proof that practice and persistence does pay off. Maj (MAA) Barney Barnett showed the young ones amongst the groups the way on day 2 taking 2nd overall, as well as closest to the pin and longest drive.
In Jul the RAPTC team headed to the annual Army Inter Corps and Army Golf Championships which were again held at Saunton Golf Club in North Devon. The team unfortunately met tough draws in the match play comps going up against two very experienced and seasoned teams in the Royal Signals and Royal Armoured Corps.
Sadly, 2023 saw the passing of a legend of RAPTC Golf, Mr Steve Monk. Steve was a
RAPTC Inter Corps Team. Left to Right: WO1 Craig Watson, WO1 Stu Hawkins, WO2 Ryan Davies, Capt Steve Green, SSgt John Palmer, Capt Ash Allen
RAPTC GOLF
SSgt (SSI) J Palmer RAPTC
stalwart of Corps golf and was always the first name to enter any event or match. His energy and passion was what epitomises Corps sport. His camaraderie and esprit de Corps was second-to-none and he will be sorely missed by all involved with RAPTC Golf.
RAPTC Golf Championships 2023
With the sad passing of HM Queen Elizabeth II, the RAPTC Annual Championships was moved from September to early November 2022. This is the 3rd annual event for RAPTC Serving and Association members and took place at Pine Ridge Golf Club with over 25 members in attendance for a great day of golf, unfortunately the weather had other plans! Significant results were:
RAPTC Serving:
• Scratch Champion
– WO1 (SMI) Stu Hawkins RAPTC
• Handicap Champion
– WO2 (QMSI) Al Murray RAPTC
RAPTC Association:
• Handicap Champion – Mr Robert Bardwell
RAPTC Golf Awards
• RAPTC Golf player of the year – Capt (MAA) Ash Allen RAPTC
• Most improved player of the year – SSgt (SSI) John Palmer RAPTC
The RAPTC Golf Society is in great shape and continues to grow in popularity. We are always on the lookout for new talent, whether you are a seasoned pro, the occasional golfer or you are just starting out we would love to have you come along to one of our events.
Anyone interested in getting involved with RAPTC Golf, Serving or Association regardless of ability, please contact SSgt John Palmer – john.palmer646@ mod.gov.uk
RAPTC Golf Sports Awards Winners - Capt Ash Allen and SSgt John Palmer
•
Scratch Champion – Mr Tony Phinn
Mr Steve Monk
Left to Right: WO1 Stu Hawkins, WO1 Craig Watson, WO2 Al Murray at the 2022 FoG