The first round of Ross Golf Club’s annual Layton Cup competition for its men’s seniors members (55+) attracted 98 entrants representing a ‘best of series’ played over 6 rounds throughout the summer. The total of the best 3 stableford rounds determines the ultimate champion and Trophy winner which also includes coveted honours board recognition.

For 25 handicapper Les Buchanan the occasion resulted in him putting together what was undoubtedly his most competitive 18 holes round ever, reflected in his outrageous 45 points haul which saw him top the final score-sheet by miles. With just six shots dropped to par on his opening nine holes, yielding him 25 points, Les was able to maintain his focus throughout and a tidy finish meant that his performance resulted in a two shots handicap reduction. Les paid tribute to the group lessons provided by Head Professional Tim Hall’s ‘School of Golf’ team where he had recently picked up on the importance of visualising each shot by focusing on his playing process rather than agonizing about the likely outcome.

It was also a good day for many of those who followed in Les’ wake, with the top 20 all playing better than their handicap. This included runner-up Richard Tromans and Allen Mawby who carded 42 points each and Nick Swan and Tim Lewis with 41 points each. The 2018 Layton Cup Champion and Club President Geoff Baker made a good fist towards retaining his title with a creditable 40 points score alongside Steve Martin, Bryan Davis, Steve Bartholomew, John Sherahilo and Club Vice Captain Bob Baker. A host of 39 pointers was headed by Paul Warwick, Peter Shaw, Mike Bradburn, Barry Robbins, Norman Lodge, David Every, David Beavan, Seniors Champion Robin Darling, Doug David and Graham Jell.See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.