THE sun shone and the sky was blue on Saturday, March 29 as the Downes Crediton Golf Club members gathered for the annual Captains drive-in.

Andrew Rogers Drive in.
Andrew Rogers Drive in. (Mike Palmer)

The outgoing club captain, Stewart Cowling and Seniors Captain, Peter Blinkhorn started proceedings with the customary putt-out.

With a final flourish, Peter sank his long putt with one stroke!

David Cousins Drive in.
David Cousins Drive in. (Mike Palmer)

Heading out for the shotgun start.
Heading out for the shotgun start. (Mike Palmer)

At 9.30am the horn sounded, and the Texas Scramble began, a full field of players set out on their days golf.

Following the Scramble, Andrew Rogers and David Cousins, incoming Club and Seniors captains respectively, undertook the formal Drive-In.

The Club Captain is required to use the old traditional driver. It’s quite a nervous moment with a crowd watching from just a short distance away.

Ladies off the 18th.
Ladies off the 18th. (Mike Palmer)

Peter Blinkhorn ran the drive in and out efficiently.
Peter Blinkhorn ran the drive in and out efficiently. (Mike Palmer)

Stewart and Peter were thanked for representing Downes Crediton Golf Club in such fine manner during the last 12 months. They have both been excellent Captains.

The club also club wished both Andrew and David well for the coming year, as they take up their new roles.

Putting practice.
Putting practice. (Mike Palmer)

Putting practice.
Putting practice. (Mike Palmer)

At Downes it is traditional for the Captain to name a charity for their year in office. Andrew's chosen charity this year is St Lukes Hospice, Plymouth.

The Texas Scramble was much enjoyed by all in such pleasant conditions, the course was looking superb, thanks to the tremendous efforts of our hardworking ground staff.

Retiring Captains 2025.
Retiring Captains 2025. (Mike Palmer)

Stewart Cowling putt out.
Stewart Cowling putt out. (Mike Palmer)

Both prior to, and after, the competition, food and drink were served by Bev, Alex and team.

The Scramble was won with an incredible 96 points by the team of Simon Baker (10), Adrian Cram (11), David Bunclark (11) and Robert Elson (22). Great play by them all. The first ladies team came in a fine seventh place. Di Parsons (34) Sue Jackson (22) Linda Gill (39) Liz Guildford (21).