The weather was less than kind for the 2022/23 Captains' Drive In, thankfully there was a break in heavy rain for the Drive In ceremony. A good number of hardier GX members and guests braved the elements to attend, glasses of Prosecco and umbrellas at the ready.
Incoming Captains, Debbie Veys and Andrew Philpot, launched the funding for their chosen charity Mind Buckinghamshire by hosting the traditional Drive in lottery. Head Professional, Alex Nelson as usual welcomed the Captains to the 1st tee, both kept their nerves in check by producing two impressive drives. Adam Grint walked the soggy fairway to measure drive distances and retrieve the balls. The customary fourball match involving the Captains, Head Professional and General Manager was cancelled as the course was closed. Alex announced the winners adding that he was not surprised by the one of the winners as Chris Veys had invested very generously with many selections.
Prizes: A bottle of Champagne
Debbie Veys 146 yards - Winner: Ian Gilmore
Andrew Philpot 198 yards - Winner: Chris Veys
Events moved on later to the warmth of the clubhouse for the inaugural unveiling of caricatures for both Captains. Members will be aware that Gordon King passed away earlier this year. His son, Fraser has followed in his father’s footsteps by providing the club with excellent caricatures. In tribute to Gordon his style has a familiar look, Fraser attended the unveiling and was complimented by Andrew Philpot and applauded by members and guests in a crowded Burrows Bar. For incoming Vice Captains Dusty Miller and Janette Psyllides, their duties were brief speeches endorsing their respective Captains. Dusty drew the mini curtains to reveal the latest additions to the Burrows Bar gallery. Many of those involved stayed on to enjoy a GX Sunday Lunch Carvery joining other members and guests.
Fraser explained that Gordon encouraged him to paint from the age of 10 and mentored him after he returned home from college. Gordon benefited from a booming market for prints in the eighties which had changed by the nineties when Fraser started out. At that time they did analyse and assess each other's work albeit in different fields. Fraser was delighted to be called upon to continue an important GX tradition at Gerrards Cross Golf Club. Fraser has a website which includes a biography page which highlights his career and the influence of his father. Please click on the link : Fraser King
Buckinghamshire Mind works across the whole spectrum of mental health, promoting well being and recovery, preventing mental ill health and providing support in times of crisis. As stated on the banner in the hallway of the clubhouse they believe "No one should have to face a mental health problem alone. “