The fabulous Notts Hollinwell played host to the northern arm of the Health, Safety & FM Golf Championships presented by Shirley Parsons & the Facilities Show, and in association with SHP Online, FMJ, and Safety & Health Expo.
Players were treated to a gorgeous setting throughout the day and whilst the Notts course does provide a very serious challenge, its natural beauty is undeniable. The event kicked off with a trick-shot show performed by the very talented Kev Carpenter, wowing everyone with his incredible hand-eye co-ordination. A few of the golf day guests even had a go –with some faring better than others!
Onto the golf itself and the morning cloud gave way to some glorious sunshine for the start of the round. The course is over 100 years old and is ranked the 36th best in the UK. It has played host to final qualifying for The Open Championship for the last three years. Earlier this year, Andrew Wilson finished seven-under par after his two rounds at Hollinwell, before going on to finish in a tie for 32nd place at Royal Portrush.
Former Ryder Cup player and NBC Commentator Ken Brown said of the course: “After driving through an avenue of pine trees you turn the corner and are suddenly greeted with a distant view of the white clubhouse; it is like entering into another world. You have discovered one of the best heathland courses in Britain.”
Former colleague, BBC commentator Peter Alliss added: “A fine course indeed, but perhaps not for those with a faint heart, especially when the wind is blowing.”
Peter wasn’t wrong, as the wind was up on the day and brought the long rough and iconic heather into play from the tee and making accurate drives a must.
The team from safety equipment and manufacturer Rite Hite, made up from Peter Poolan, David Poolan, Chris Radford and Dale Radford, were victorious in the team event, scoring 85 stableford points.
Dale Radford, playing off six, was one of the key members of that outfit and claimed the individual prize, the only player to play to his handicap on the day, scoring 36 points. Mark Bocock, from Clipper Logistics, claimed the runner-up spot, with 34 points.
Rite Hite were also heavily involved in the minor prizes were, with David Poolan putting his ball to about 10 feet from pin on the iconic 13th hole, said to be one of the most picturesque golf holes in the world, and claiming the nearest the pin prize. Dale Radford’s monster 320 yard hit down the 18th won the longest drive competition.
Shirley Parsons has been a long-time supporter of Wheelpower and through the raffle and post-round chipping and putting games, over £400 was raised for the charity.
Thanks to all who attended the event, along with May’s southern event at Centurion Club, as well as event sponsors THSP Risk Management and Rite Hite, and event organiser Will Roebuck Golf.
See you in 2020!
