On 2nd & 3rd May Cornwall Fire and Rescue Community Safety Service were proud to host the 2019 National Fire Service Pairs Golf competition at Perranporth golf club.
This year saw 88 golfers from 24 different services travelling from across the Country from as far as Tyne and Wear, Wales, Kent and all those in-between.
Perranporth has a reputation for being a tough links golf course. Perched on top of the Cornish cliffs with a number of blind tee shots, the practice round on the Wednesday was a welcome insight into the tough challenge that lay ahead.
The strong northerly wind that picked up for the first day led to some last minute course changes by the organisers. This resulted in some excellent scores being return in the 4 ball better ball format. Lee Griffin and Mark Henwood from the hosting service came out on top after day 1 with a net 66. Dave Hunt and Mark Carpenter from Hereford & Worcester FRS returned a 71 to take the best Gross after round 1.
The early start on the Friday from the 1st and 10th tees gave everyone a chance to make the most of the Cornish sunshine and lighter winds. Playing the course for the 3rd time also meant the many of the blind shots were a little less daunting. This was reflected in the scores and number of 2’s scored compared to the first day.
The best scores on the second day were Ben Mullen and James Parkinson from Tyne & Wear with a nett 61 and Matt Thompson and Adrian Thompson from Nottinghamshire with a gross 70.
Coming out on top after the two days and crowned this year’s National Pairs were Neil Blackburn and Mark Sanders from Devon and Somerset FRS with a nett 66 + 64 =130
Mark Carpenter and Dave Hunt from Hereford & Worcester won the best Gross trophy with a gross 71+71=142
We would like to take this opportunity to thank Perranporth Golf Club and their members for hosting this event. Their hospitality in making everyone feel so welcome was outstanding. A raffle held over the two days also raised £400 for the Firefighters Charity and we would like to thank everyone who donated prizes for the event.
One of the finest links courses in the South West, Perranporth boasts spectacular panoramic views throughout this championship course. With stunning views over the sea and the extensive golden sands below, few courses are better placed than this. So, pause a moment on the 5th and 14th tees and take in the truly spectacular scenery of which you could never tire. Taking advantage of the natural contours of the landscape means that James Braid, course designer, was successful in creating each hole with its own individual demands and character. Not only this, but the greens which are fast and absolutely true have a reputation for being amongst the best in the South West. At 6296 yards this exciting par 72 is a challenge for both high and low handicappers. It is a course you will want to return to play time and time again.