A change of venue at short notice saw the Society play the Oceanico Victoria on Saturday. It has now become a must play golf course for many after seeing it host the Portuguese Masters since 2007 when englishman Steven Webster won his first European Tour event.
The Algarve had experienced a great deal of rain in the week resulting in the course not allowing buggies on the day – a feature which is usually mandatory during normal conditions. It measures 6609mts off the back tees & the yellows 5628mts so the wet conditions did not allow the ball to run so it played every metre on the day. General maintenance with verti-draining was in evidence on the greens especially the back nine and sanding leading to some of the entrances – it really wasn’t a problem. It is something you come to expect in the first few months of each year.
The forecast of warm sunshine for the next couple of weeks will see the course blossom just in time for high season golf here in the Algarve. If you have never played it give it a go and try and par the last three holes!
Golf in Algarve
Old Course – Weekly Competition
Although it’s been raining for an unusual long period of time here in Algarve, we were fortunate having some sunshine and to play without rain.
It’s always a pleasure and a privilege to play on the Old Course, which still remains one of the best courses in Portugal.
We welcomed the new member Dave Hiwson and pleased to see long time members visiting the Algarve, Donald Adams and Charles Bradley.
The nearest-to-pin was on hole 4 and Jeff Seymour did the best shot.
Charles Bradley, playing for the last time with handicap 12 on the society, had a card with 38 points including 3 blobs. Jeff Seymour came in second place with a honest 35 points.
Being the first tournament of the year, Ann Moore was entitled to an award for the best score for ladies.
Back to the clubhouse at Chez Carlos restaurant, Filipe presented us with a selection of salads and appetizers that delighted everyone and he still do two drinks for the price of one.
Vale da Pinta – Weekly Competition
Another summer day in the Algarve!
We have to thank Pestana’s management for the excellent offer made to Chez Carlos Golf Society through Tee Times Golf Agency, at Pestana Vale da Pinta.
The course was in excellent condition, apart from one or two wet bunkers. It was very pleasant to see our member Robin Prescott, who brought 3 friends along with him, that enabled not just the usual individual stableford but also a joint team score 4 ball against 4 ball for the drinks. Coincidentally we finished with a draw both teams with 138 points, leading to some comments such as putt failures of 20 cm, etc. etc.
On individual scoring, we had in 1st place the guest, William McGivern with 41 points, in 2nd place Jeff Seymour with 38 points, who also won the nearest-to-pin on the 5th hole, and in 3rd place without a prize, Sinclair Armett and Robin Prescott, both with 35 points.
Back at the clubhouse, the usual chips with curry sauce and some pints made our day exceptional, although we regret the absence of Jeff Seymour, who had gone support his partner and one of our members, Alison in Faro hospital, who we all wish a speedy recovery.
Next week there is another good offer for the Golf Society, this time at Quinta do Vale GC, the Ballesteros’ designed course, on Saturday, 7th November at 12:09 tee off, members 35€ and guests 45€.
Hope to see you all there.
