26/03/2026
The 1s headed south to Exeter in the quarter final of the nationals hoping to extend their cup run. A 6:50am start at Dawlish was definitely less than ideal, and Norris + Gaz started slowly. Some good play from Exeter and missed putts from UoB meant the pair lost before the clock even hit 9am (must be some sort of record). Roberto and Clem battled hard in the middle pairing in a tight match, but lost on the 17th after some unfortunate luck on the back 9. Carter and Ollie gave UoB a chance with a battering in the final foursomes.
Several hours later the singles got underway with Ollie and Gaz leading UoB off. Exeter tried their best to guarantee a point by putting a 1s player in their team (what’s the point in rules??) but Ollie wasn’t having any of it. A birdie on the last secured his win, and well done to him for 2/2 points on the day. Gaz lost on the 18th after some questionable ruling from the Exeter boys. Roberto and Norris cruised to victories in the middle group, meaning only 1 point was needed from Clem or Carter. Carter started strong but faded towards the end and ultimately lost, but some Tiger-esque putting on the back 9 from Clem meant he turned his match around. An 8 foot par putt on the last was needed for the win, and it was interesting to see the Exeter players getting ready for the playoff (not sure if they can count). It was never in doubt for Clem and fair to say the Exeter boys (especially their 1s player) and their coach weren’t best pleased.
The 1s will travel to Surrey in the semi finals. Well done to the lads!