THE August Mixed Open at Wenvoe Castle Golf Club attracted entries from far and wide and early starters enjoyed the best of the weather but wet and windy conditions gradually prevailed and severely tested the spirit of those going out in the afternoon.

The sometimes heavy rain provided a stern test of both the excellent drainage of the course and greens but the course remained open for play. Several competitors preferred to return to the drier conditions of the club house but full credit to those who continued to play in the challenging conditions and some excellent scores were recorded.

The winners of the visitor’s prize were Alistair and Leslie McLeod of Hillingdon Golf Club who made the considerable journey from Middlesex and played exceptionally well to post the top score of 37 points. They were each rewarded with voucher of £100.

Close behind were the runners-up Mark and Debbie Hudman of Cardiff and Whitchurch Golf Clubs who also scored well with 36 points and were rewarded with £70 vouchers.

The winners of the prize for Wenvoe Castle members were Meirion Evans and Sheila Morrow who posted a remarkable score of 39 points and each won a £100 voucher. It was so close and needed a countback over the final nine holes to separate them from the runners-up Pip Smith and Lyn Williams who each received a £70 voucher.

The nearest pin prize for the ladies was contested on the ninth hole and Rosina Jenkins from Pontypridd Golf Club was a clear winner putting the ball just 6ft 1in from the hole.

The men had the more difficult challenge of the 200 yard 15th hole and Wenvoe Castle member Ian Henderson took the prize with the ball measured at 19ft 4in from the hole.

Club president Colin Champ presented the prizes and thanked all those who took part in such challenging conditions. It was a testament to the work of the green keeping staff that the course was able to remain open under such pressure.

The president also thanked the ladies section for their considerable support with registration and starting throughout the long day and similarly the excellent service provided by the bar and catering staff all making the event a success.

The golf club was delighted with the support for the competition and new members are particularly welcome to enjoy the experience of playing. Golfers of all abilities are encouraged to join and special introductory arrangements are available for those new to the game.

Heavily discounted offers are being introduced from September 1 and information can be obtained from the club secretary, Nicola Sims on 029 2059 4371.