Snow is falling!

For those of you who haven't noticed yet, there is a lot of snow out there and a lot of golf courses are closed - bah humbug! As I headed round Tesco today, there was an announcement that due to the snow they are going to be open until 7.30 pm on Christmas Eve. Wow, I thought, the snow is causing chaos in Tesco, what about the Midlothian Winter Foursomes? Only 2 x third round ties have been played so far and a further 6 have still to be played. Will the players be able to find their yellow or orange balls in the snow? Will the power trolleys be able to cope with the depth of snow? And if the answers to those questions are no, when will the snow disappear and golfing life return to normal?

Whilst having these thoughts and trying to decide whether to go for 1 or 2 bottles of gin, the decision was made to extend the 3rd round "play-by" date by 1 week, at the moment. So, please note, the third round has been moved from January 10th 2010 to January 17th 2010, in the hope that a further week will alleviate any snow problems. Any further decision which may be needed will be taken in the New Year.

In the meantime, Merry Christmas to all of our members. We hope you have a wonderful day on Friday and a great New Year which brings good weather and good golfing!

Braid coaching

Today brought the last coaching at the Braids Driving Range for 2009. 22 girls turned up and all were in great, jovial mood. The Christmas treat of a chocolate had to be earned as Suzie put the girls' putting skills to the test. They had to sink 3 putts in a row to earn a sweetie and boy did the girls bring out their competitive spirit and succeed! It is great to see them all enjoying themselves, laughing and chatting away with one another.

Their swings and ball striking have greatly improved over the year thanks to the dedication of Ian Young, Mark Berrie, Paul Malone and Sandy Stephen. There is going to be some great golfers amongst them. Our thanks to the professionals and also, this month, to Sandra Hennessy to turned up to give a helping hand.

We hope you all have a great Christmas and New Year and we will see you back at Braids on 10th January for the first coaching session of 2010.

Main and Junior Squads

Great fun was had yesterday when a season ending, main and junior squad get together was held at the Hermitage Golf Club. Luckily, a 1 pm tee-time was set and, as the clouds parted, we took to the course on the best part of the day. The junior squad members drew for partners and to, make things a wee bit more interesting, their senior partners were only allowed 4 clubs and a putter. Some of the scores were better than others but everyone enjoyed their game and there was good mixing and banter. Thanks to Karen Marshall, everyone was a winner and received a selection box - even the President, Selector and Captain spectators!

1st Louise Fraser & Hannah Scott
2nd Claire Hargan & Sally Naysmith
3rd Karen Marshall & Heather Tumblety
4th Kirsten Blackwood & Katherine Fisher
5th Hilary Laughland & Kirsty Simpson
6th Gillian Simpson &, junior of the day, Mary Richardson

Junior / Adult Golf Competition

Juniors who took part in the junior/adult competition.

(apologies to Emily Rigg who was omitted, somehow, from the photo - not quite sure how!)

What a great morning we had this morning. The sun shone, it was warm and not too windy as the juniors took to the Princes Course for the annual junior/adult foursomes. 14 girls had managed to persuade an adult not to be shy and to join them in the fun event. The groups were sent on their way by Margaret Rodgers with the juniors driving at the first. There was a nearest the pin in 2 at the 6th hole and a nearest the pin in 1 shot at the 9th. Great fun was had and as ever, everyone had a story to tell by the end. Emma and Ricky Morrison scored a birdie 2 at the 6th and put an end to anyone else getting any closer! At the 8th hole, one adult drove into the trees. The junior progressed the ball very well down the hole, for the adult to then have an unmentionable back into the trees immediately on his right. The President and Captain were blamed for this as they were watching! Another pair were through the back of the 212 yard 2nd hole in 2 but found themselves in a hole. Thinking, it wasn't actually lying that badly and could easily be chopped out of the hole, the adult had a swipe and ...... missed! The junior had a swipe and ...... missed. Eventually they progressed on to the 3rd hole, a quintuple bogey on their card. I must add, the rest of their card was very good with 3 pars, 4 bogeys and a double bogey. Some adults have been warned that they will need to practice if they want to make another appearance next year! Our thanks to Wendy Nicholson who kindly stepped in to partner one of the girls. This was apparently a popular move, her golf was very much admired by the girls, the opponent threatening to drop her mother next year in favour of a squad member!

(Sorry girls, I seem to have had a complete disaster with my camera today!)

The results were:

Nearest the pin in 2 at 6th - Emma & Ricky Morrison

Nearest the pin at 9th - Alexandra Massey

1st Scratch - Heather & Jim Laing 39

1st Handicap - Alexandra & Louise Massey 49 - 18; net 31 (bl6)

2nd Handicap - Emily & Julie Rigg 45 - 14; net 31

3rd Handicap - Julia Smith & Wendy Nicholson 42 - 10; net 32 (bl6)

MCLGA AGM

The Midlothian AGM and prize giving was held last night at Liberton Golf Club. A good turn out of members saw the AGM pass without any problems. The golf season was rounded up by Captain Tracy Laughland while Treasurer Maureen McLeod, ably assisted by our Auditor, Brenda Russell, presented the Accounts for the 2008/09 year, Secretary Agnes Leslie presented her report of the competitions and membership standing, and Junior Secretary Kate Rorke summarised the junior activities during 2008/09. There being no proposals, the Office Bearers were re-elected with the audience aghast that Agnes will be moving into her 9th year as Honorary Secretary. Under AOCB, Gillian Kirkwood gave an update on the progress of the Centenary book. It was hoped to have this completed by the AGM but with there being so much information, it is taking longer than expected and will be out as soon as possible. It was hoped that members would bear with Gillian for it's completion.

The annual prize giving followed with the juniors present to collect their prizes before the year's prize winners, including the Centenary Tri-am winners, were announced.

Junior / Adult Golf competition

The annual junior/adult golf competition will take place on Sunday 15th November 2009 at the Princes Course. Places are still available so if anyone else would like to join in this fun 9-hole game, please contact Tracy and let her know to add you and your partner to the starting sheet.

The starting times are as follows:

10.30 am Lisa Macpherson & Sharon Macpherson
10.30 am Alexandra Massey & Louise Massey
10:37 am Joanna Lamb & Scott Macpherson
10:37 am Anna Massey & Ed Massey
10:44 am Carla Maran & Charlie Maran
10:44 am Heather Laing & Jim Laing
10:51 am Jane Finlay & Alan Finlay
10:51 am Emma Morrison & Ricky Morrison
10:58 am Sophie Aitchison & Elaine Aitchison
10:58 am Julia Smith & Wendy Nicholson
11:05 am Emily Rigg & Julie Rigg
11:05 am Caitlin Turner & Adrienne Turner
11:12 am Holly Gordon & Craig Gordon
11:12 am Heather Kynoch & Douglas Kynoch
11:12 am Ella Whitaker & Lynne Whitaker

Please check in at the starter's box at the Princes Course 15 min before your tee time.
Juniors will drive at the first hole.
Prizes will be given for best scratch and handicap scores as well as nearest the pin in 2 shots (on/off the green) at the 6th hole and nearest the pin in 1 shot (on/off the green) at the 9th hole.

The prize giving will be in the room at the top of the Braids Driving Range as soon as possible after the finish of play.

Good luck to all those playing and let's hope this dry weather continues to the weekend.

MCLGA AGM

Please note that the Annual General Meeting of the Midlothian County Ladies' Golf Association is to be held this Wednesday (i.e. 11th November) at Liberton Golf Club at 7.30 pm. The annual prize giving will take place on completion of the AGM.

Please also note that a raffle will be held in aid of the County Juniors and all raffle prizes will be gratefully received on the night.

October Princes Course

Even although it is half-term, five girls turned out for the monthly 9 holes at the Princes Course. It was ideal conditions, although a little chilly and the wind did blow a little towards the end. Congratulations to Emma Morrison who won the handicap with a 2 over par net 33, playing off her newly acquired CONGU handicap of 36. Second was Heather Laing with a net 39, playing off her recently cut handicap of 24. Rumour has it that Heather it on the hunt for a new foursomes partner after her dad did not come up trumps at the recent SLGA Adult/Junior Foursomes competition at Arbroath!

In the non-handicap section, Caitlin Turner, fresh from a fabulous victory over her mum at Baberton yesterday, won with 67. Second was new member Heather Kynoch with a 73 while third was Lisa Macpherson with a 75, furious at just missing out on her best ever score.

Tomorrow sees some of the juniors heading to North Berwick's Children's Course for the Girls' in Golf Fun Team competition. There was much excitement at the Princes Course today with thoughts of meeting Catriona Matthews tomorrow who is turning out to not only watch the girls but also to present the prizes. I hope you all enjoy the day and have fun meeting Catriona.

A quick reminder that November sees a 9-hole adult/junior competition at the Princes Course. This will be on Sunday 15th November with the first tee time being 10.30 am. If anyone has not yet entered but would like to, there is stil time! Please e-mail Tracy with details of name, partner's name and handicaps. Please note that you do not need a handicap to enter and you do not even need a partner. Let me know and I will find someone for you.

Donald Ross Junior International

The Donald Ross Junior International has been played at Royal Dornoch Golf Club over the last coupe of days. Being held over both of the courses, Hannah Scott (Broomieknowe) finished 3rd in the handicap girls section with a score of 150.

Janice Moodie Trophy

This competition, originally planned for the 3rd July, was rearranged and finally played at Windyhill Golf Club ysterday. Many congratulations to Rachael Watton (Mortonhall) who finished second overall with a net 71, two shots behind the 13-year-old winner. Rachael picked up the 15-21 age group prize by 3 shots. Gabrielle Macdonald finished in a tie for 4th place with a net 75.

P.S. Thanks to the avid reader for picking up on my spelling mistakes and omissions!

SLGA news

The SLGA Order of Merit Tables have now reached a conclusion. The final standings for MCLGA members are as follows:

Ladies' Order of Merit:
7th Jane Turner; 11th Rachael Watton; 14th Claire Hargan; 18th Claire MacDonald; 24th Gabrielle Macdoanld; 27th Louise Fraser; 58th Wendy Nicholson; 75th Noreen Fenton; 81st Karen Marshall; 87th Fiona de Vries; 105th Kirsten Balckwood

Girls' Order of Merit:
2nd Rachael Watton; 8th Gabrielle Macdonald; 39th Gillian Simpson


The SLGA has also announced its training squads for 2009/2010. For MCLGA members, they are as follows:

SLGA National Performance Squad: Jane Turner (Craigielaw)
SLGA National Performance Squad B: Gabrielle Macdonald (Craigielaw), Rachael Watton (Mortonhall)
Scottish Golf Academy Programme: Kate McIntosh (Broomieknowe)

Girls in Golf Fun Team Competition

Laura Rushby from Club Golf Scotland has asked me to let you know about a Girls in Golf Fun Team Competition which is being held on Monday 19th October at North Berwick’s Children Course, in East Lothian (next to the MacDonald Marine Hotel in North Berwick) between 10am-12.30pm.

They have organised for a very special guest to come along to see you all in action and to present the prizes. It is none other than 2009 Women's British Open Champion, Catriona Matthew who is a strong supporter of clubgolf and has very kindly agreed to support this event during her busy schedule.

This is a fun competition and is just for girls and all abilities are welcome (beginners, non-handicappers, handicappers etc etc). They would love to see as many of the girls at this event as possible, to meet Catriona, and show her that the East of Scotland has lots of girls in golf!

The details are:

Girls in Golf Team Competition
Venue: North Berwick’s Children’s Course (next to the Marine Hotel)
Date: Monday 19th October
Drop off: 1000
Pick up: 1230
Format: Teams of 3 or 4 will participate in a team scramble
Teams will be organised based on age and ability
Depending on how many handicap/non handicap players enter will dictate the final format
Entry fee: £2 (to be paid at registration on the day)

To book a place please complete the entry form by clicking on the link below and email it to:
Kate Green – Golf Development Officer (East Lothian)
Tel: 01875 619071
Email: kgreen@eastlothian.gov.uk

Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis.

If you have any questions please contact either Laura or Kate

ENTRY%20FORM%20FUN%20COMP%2009.doc

Winter Foursomes

Due to popular demand (i.e. there has been a number of requests!) the first round of the Winter Foursomes has been extended to Sunday 8th November. Please note that the rest of the "play-by" dates will remain as they are. We hope that this will give you enough time to arrange your ties.

SLGA Champion of Champions

Well done to Claire Hargan (Mortonhall) who narrowly missed out by 1 shot on becoming the 2009 SLGA Champion of Champions. On a wind swept Glasgow Gailes, Claire shot an 81, which was 1 over the day's CSS, to Kylie Walker's (Dunbartonshire & Argyll Champion) 80. Unfortunately Claire lost out to two others on the better inward half to push her into 4th place.

Gabrielle wins Dunfermline Building Society Junior Masters

Many congratulations to Gabrielle Macdonald (Craigielaw) who today won the girls Dunfermline Building Society Junior Masters. Having made it through the Regional Finals at Lothianburn at the beginning of August, Gabrielle teed up in the Grand Final at the Queen's Course in Gleneagles. She scored a magnificent level par in windy conditions which gave her 39 stableford points and the championship title by 2 points. It was third time lucky for Gabrielle as this was the third year in a row where she had qualified for the final and her four birides at the 3rd, 4th, 13th and 16th certainly helped her on her way.

Many congratulations Gabrielle.

SLGA Championship Manager

Fiona Farquharson has decided to retire from her Championship Manager's job at the SLGA next year and the SLGA has asked us to display the following advertisement for her replacement on our website. Further details, including the job description can be viewed via the SLGA's own website at http://www.slga.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=440&Itemid=30

Scottish Ladies' Golfing

Association Limited

The Scottish Ladies’ Golfing Association Limited is the governing body for ladies’ and girls’ amateur golf in Scotland. Applications are invited for the following position which will be based in Perth.

CHAMPIONSHIP MANAGER
(Full Time)

Applicants must have an excellent knowledge of competitive golf. They should be self motivated but able to work as part of a team, and have strong communication and organisational skills. IT literate and fully conversant with Microsoft Office, the person appointed will be responsible for the administration for, and delivery of, the Association’s Championships and Competitions. Attention to detail and the ability to work to tight deadlines are imperative. A full clean driving licence and willingness to work unsocial hours and away from home are essential.

Salary and benefits package will be commensurate with experience.

Applications, in writing, accompanied by a curriculum vitae should be sent to:
Dr S E Hartley, The Company Secretary, Scottish Ladies’ Golfing Association Limited, The Den, 2 Dundee Road, Perth PH2 7DW
marking the envelope Ref:CM Private & Confidential.
Email: sheila@slga.co.uk
Closing date for applications: 2 November 2009

2009 Greensomes Competition

The final result from the 2009 greensomes competition has now been received. Congratulations to Ravelston Golf Club who has won this year's league with 3 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss, to give a total of 7 match points. In second place is Ratho Park with 3 wins, 2 losses and 6 match points. The final results table can be seen by clicking on "Greensomes" on the left hand side of this page.

Thank you to Phyl Early (Glencorse) who kindly acted as recorder for this competition this year.

SLGA Champion of Champions

Good luck to Claire Hargan (Mortonhall) and Claire MacDonald (Gullane Ladies') who play in the SLGA Champion of Champions competiton at Glasgow Gailes Golf Club. The girls qualified through winning the MCLGA County Championship and the East of Scotland Championship respectively and will take part in the one round stroke play competiton on Sunday, the final SLGA event of 2009.

2009-2010 Winter Foursomes

Fifty couples have entered this year's Winter Foursomes competition and the draw is now available on the website - click on the "Winter Foursomes" heading down the left handside of the page. I hope you all enjoy your matches and the snow does not interfere with play it way it did last year!

Good luck to you all.

East of Scotland Championship

An excellent field of 47 players took part in the East of Scotland Championship held today at Mortonhall Golf Club. After the dreadful gales of yesterday, the organising Committee were delighted that fantastic calm conditions prevailed today - although it was a bit chilly standing on the first tee seeing everyone off this morning! The course was reported to be in great condition with the Midlothian players appearing to cope the best!

Claire MacDonald (Gullane) put her putting woes behind her to record a great score of 72 against the day's CSS of 74 and to become the 2009 East of Scotland Champion. It was a great round in which Claire reached the turn in 39 (2 over par) before turning for home and really putting on the style. After hitting the ball wide at the 11th, she managed to get back onto the fairway before slotting her chip for a birdie 3. This was followed with another birdie at 12 and yet another at 14. Claire won by 2 strokes from both Rachael Watton (Mortonhall) and Gabrielle Macdonald (Craigielaw), with Rachael pipping Gabrielle to take second place by virtue of a better inward 9 holes.

The handicap section saw the only non-Midlothian winner of the day with Rachel Hanlon (St Regulus and Fife) claiming 1st place with a net 71. Hannah Scott (Broomieknowe) took second place with a net 72, while home player, Carol Brown finished third with a net 73.

In the team event where 3 scores from the 4 nominated players count towards the trophy, again Midlothian came up trumps for the third year running. The team of Claire Hargan (Mortonhall), Claire MacDonald, Rachael Watton and Jane Turner (Craigielaw) returned an aggregate score of 221, winning by 12 shots from Fife. Stirling were third and East Lothian fourth.

Many congratulations to all of the girls and many thanks to Mortonhall Golf Club for kindly agreeing to us using their course for this event and for all the help they and their Council gave to us in getting the day organised.

The results were:

1st scratch: Claire MacDonald (Gullane Ladies & Midlothian) 72

2nd scratch: Rachael Watton (Mortonhall & Midlothian) 74 (BIH)

3rd scratch: Gabrielle Macdonald (Craigielaw & Midlothian) 74

1st handicap: Rachel Hanlon (St Regulus & Fife)

2nd handicap: Hannah Scott (Broomieknowe & Midlothian)

3rd handicap: Carol Brown (Mortonhall & Midlothian)

Team prize:

1st: Mortonhall (Claire Hargan, Claire MacDonald, Rachael Watton, Jane Turner) 221

2nd: Fife (Dorothy Ford, Rachel Hanlon, Elaine Moffat, Ashleigh Wilton) 233

3rd Strling & Clackmannan (Linda Allan, Alison Davidson, Alison Goodwin, Louise MacGregor) 246

4th East Lothian (Elinor Blair, Linda Grieve, Clara Young, Dawn Young) 260

ESGGA Order of Merit

The East of Scotland Girls' Golfing Association (ESGGA) today announced their 2009 Order of Merit title winner. The girls gain points for their scratch scores at the ESGGA Spring and Autumn Meetings as well as their Championship and the relevant Junior County Championships. This year's title went to Kate McIntosh (Broomieknowe) with 65 points, winning by 17 points from Rachel Hanlon from Fife. In third place was Gabrielle Macdonald (Craigielaw), with Alison Goodwin (Stirling and Clackmannan) fourth.

Many congratulations to Kate, who is pictured below with Rachel and Alison.

Scottish Seniors stop the curse!

After the Ladies' Team succombed on the final day of the Home Internationals at Irvine and MCLGA lost out, by the narrowest of margins, on a countback in the County Finals at Baberton, Pamela Williamson's team, which included MCLGA members, Fiona de Vries, Noreen Fenton and Fiona Hunter, with Janet Wake as Manager, held on, in style, at Newport Golf Club, Wales to maintain their 100% record and win the Senior Women's Home International Matches and the Sue Johnson Trophy for the first time in the 6 year history of the competition.

On Day 1, Scotland met Ireland and, having reached lunch 2-1 up after the morning foursomes, continued their great display in the afternoon, taking the match by 5.5-2.5. Fiona Hunter, who lost her morning foursomes, sat out the afternoon singles along with Noreen Fenton who, with Fiona de Vries, had recorded a 3&2 victory. Fiona kept up her 100% record in the afternoon with another 3&2 victory in the singles.

Day 2 brought Scotland against England, a team they had never beaten at this level before, but more of the same was to follow. Again a 2-1 lead was set at lunchtime with Fiona Hunter narrowly losing her foursomes, by virtue of the opposition holing from 10ft on the final green, and the successful duo of Noreen Fenton and Fiona de Vries bringing home a point with another 3&2 victory. In a very tight, nail biting afternoon, the singles matches were shared 2.5-2.5, giving Scotland the overall lead of 4.5-3.5 which they were looking for. With birdies and eagles flying around everywhere (16 birdies and 1 eagle were recorded between the two teams), Scotland lost the first singles match but moved ahead again after recording victories in the second and third matches, with Fiona de Vries again posting an ever popular 3&2 victory. The fourth match was lost with the final game being halved but not before Moira Thomson (East Lothian) put up a great fight, winning the 15th and 16th to square her match and halving 17 and 18 to keep it that way and give Scotland the necessary win.

So all was set. The hard work almost done. Scotland had 2 wins out of 2 and all that was needed was to face defending Champions, Wales, on their home soil and record a halved match! Sound familiar?

The morning foursomes started the excitement. Fiona Hunter holed from a bunker at the 16th to level their match before halving the 17th and 18th holes and give Scotland their first half point of the day. In the final foursomes, Noreen Fenton and Fiona de Vries, by now fed up with 3&2 victories, increased their winning margin and recorded a 4&2 victory to give Scotland a 2.5-0.5 lead at lunchtime. Scotland were left needing 1.5 points from the singles line up for a draw and 2 points for a win, both outcomes securing them the Sue Johnson Trophy. Having won the first of the singles matches, the Scots lost the second match before Fiona de Vries, playing in the third game, came to the fore. Her Welsh opponent was not sure what had hit her as Fiona went 6 up after 11 holes. She then lost the the 14th to a birdie but that left her dormie 4 up and one more hole was all that was needed. Again making her 3&2 score lines redundant, Fiona won the 15th and the match by 5&3, maintaining her unbeaten run. Scotland then secured the 4th game but lost the 5th to make the overall score 5.5-2.5.

Many congratulations to Pamela Williamson, Janet Wake and the whole of the Scotland Senior Womens' Home International Team. A fantastic result to not only win the Sue Johnson Trophy for the first time in the six year history but to win it in such style. The gremlins are now, hopefully, well and truely buried in Scotland!

East of Scotland Championship

The starting list and times for the East of Scotland Championship has been changed slightly. Please click below to see the revised version.

2009EOSdraw.doc

Gibson Cup

A great weekend, in testing windy conditions, was had at the Braid Hills Golf Course with the annual hosting of the Gibson Cup. I cannot take away from Anne Brownie's report which can be read at http://www.gilliankirkwood.com/ercn86/ but many congratulations to Wendy Nicholson and Kate McIntosh (Broomieknowe) who led the qualifiers on Saturday with a net 71.5 (0.5 under par), to Norma Richmond and Ray Lynch (Murrayfield) who won the second flight of the matchplay stage, to Louise Wells and Vivien Mitchell (Prestonfield) who won the Consolation Stableford Trophy with a bettter inward half from Dee Williams and Margaret Anderson (Craigmillar Park) and Ellice and Sandra Cackett (Broomieknowe), and especially to Karina Matson and Gillian Lithgow (Lothianburn) who are the 2009 winners of the 102 year old Gibson Cup.

SLGA Adult/Girls Foursomes

Congratulations to Margaret Alexander (Baberton) and her partner Jillian Farrell from Cardross who won their category in yesterday's SLGA Adult/Girls Foursomes which was being played at Arbroath. The pair won the 21-36 handicap category by 1 stableford point. Broomieknowe mother and daughter pair, Alison and Hannah Scott were second in the 13-20 handicap category.

Commonwealth Spoons

Congratulations to Carol Fulton and Frances Sorlie who finished a creditable third equal in the SLGA Commonwealth Spoons Final which was being played today, in windy conditions, at Longniddry Golf Club. Unfortunately the pair lost out to one of the couples tied with them on a last 9 hole countback and then to the other couple on the last 6 holes, which pushed them down to 5th place.

I hope that everyone who qualified for the final enjoyed their game. Rumour has it that the greens were like grease lightning!

East of Scotland Championship

The East of Scotland Championship is being held at Mortonhall Golf Club on Sunday 4th October with tee times between 9.30 am and noon. We have had a superb entry and the draw has now been made. Times can be seen by clicking on the link given at the bottom of this article.

Please remember to bring proof or your handicap with you and please be at the first tee 10 minutes before your specified tee time.

For any enquiries between now and the 4th October, please contact Agnes Leslie either by e-mail (click here) or by telephone on 0131 445 2411. If you need to contact us on the day, please phone either Tracy Laughland on 07714 980524 or Mortonhall Golf Club on 0131 477 6902.

Good luck to you all. I hope you play well, enjoy the course and the sun shines!

Link to tee-times: 2009EOSdraw.doc

MCLGA Silver Summer Knockout 2009

Congratulations to Dee Williams (Craigmillar Park) for winning this year's Silver Summer Knockout competition and to the runner up Sandra Cackett (Broomieknowe). The other semi-finalists were Carole Mason (Dalmahoy) and Katharine Logan (Baberton).

It sounds like you all had some great matches this year. Thanks to everyone who took part and for playing all your matches on time!

Senior Women's Home Internationals

The Scotland team for the Senior Women's Home Internationals has been announced. The team, Captained by Pamela Williamson (Baberton) and managed by Janet Wake (Merchants), sees Fiona de Vries (St Rule), Noreen Fenton (Dunbar) and Fiona Hunter (Baberton) amongst its players. The round robin competition will be held at Newport Golf Club in Wales from September 29th - October 1st. On day 1 Scotland will take on Ireland, on day 2 England and on day 3, host nation, Wales. Three foursomes matches are played each morning, with 5 singles matches taking place each afternoon.

Good luck to all those involved from the players to the officials.

This week's competitions

Having recovered (ever so slightly!) from this weekend's huge disappointment, it is time to turn our attention back to the golfing calendar. This week sees not only the final of the Commonwealth Spoons but also the annual Gibson Challenge Cup.

The Commonwealth Spoons Final, which was won last year by Suzanne Ireland (Prestonfield)and Diane Moncreiff (Lochend), takes place on Thursday at Longniddry Golf Club. Good luck to all who have qualified and are playing. The times for the Midlothian players are:

10.00 Val Hallam & Phyl Early
10.06 Carol Fulton & Frances Sorlie
10.12 Kate Johnston & Ann Barr
10.18 Moira Wilson & Rita Veitch
10.24 Moira Kinnear & Davida Simpson
10.30 Maggie McPherson & Anne Patrick
10.36 Madge Hutchison & Alaco Cowan

The 2009 Gibson Challenge Cup kicks off with the medal foursomes round on Saturday. It is again being held at the Braids Golf Course with, this year, seeing an entry of 52 pairs Best of luck to all those who are taking part in this event.

County Finals

I am so disappointed, as are the rest of the team, to report that we missed out by the narrowest of margins in the County Finals. Having had a superb win against Galloway by 8.5-0.5 and having beaten Renfrewshire by 5.5-3.5, we went into yesterday's final match knowing that a draw would not be good enough - we had to win. Things were looking rosie at lunchtime when our morning foursomes pairings put up a 2-1 lead, Jane and Rachael recording a magnificent 6&5 victory over Kelsey MacDonald and Hannah McCook, Claire Hargan and Wendy going to the 18th but coming away with a 1 hole win over Cara Gruber and Pam Mackay, and Kirsten and Claire MacD missing out narrowly to Alison Bartlett and Jenny Milne by 1 hole. The team had made the dream start and all that was needed was to build on that.

A lunchtime chat put the records straight - a 6-0 win in the afternoon was needed; no-one was to rely on anyone else to bring home the points; they all needed to go out onto the course and win - and boy, were they up for it! Northern Counties had lost Mary Smith, who had departed for Blairgowrie and the Scottish Veteran Ladies' Championship, and Kelsey MacDonald who had been taken to hospital for an x-ray on a wrist she had damaged in the morning match. Jane did as asked, winning early and sending a message through the team. Next came Claire Hargan winning on the 16th and the message was clear, we only needed another 1 point. That however was to elude us. Karen unfortunately lost to young Julie Vass, but the rest of the matches, although close, looked comfortable. But then the nerves started to kick in, anxiety struck and the situation started to change. Jenny Milne had a great up and down on 17 to square the match against Rachael and with news that Louise was 1 down on 17 and Claire MacD was all square on 16, a half at the 18th gave Midlothian another half point but the outcome looked very very tight. Louise remained 1 down at the 18th, a great match play finishing hole. Her second to the green unfortunately just ran off the left hand side of the green but a superb up and down gave her a par finish. Her opponent, Hannah McCook hit the green in two but was left with a testing putt to half the hole and win the match. To the Midlothian opposition, it looked as if the ball just caught the right hand edge of the hole but it still dropped in. So it was down to back marker Claire MacD to bring home the needed half point. The pressure on MacD was immense as the entire gallery surrounded the 18th green - Midlothian team and spectators waiting for half a point and Northern Counties wanting a win. Having lost 16, MacD and Cara Gruber halved the 17th with birdie 2s and headed to the 18th with Midlothian 1 down. Great drives by both girls were followed by Cara running through and over the back of the green and MacD hitting a superb shot onto the left hand edge of the green. Cara had a magnificent chip which stopped short of the hole but MacD, by this time, knew she needed to sink her putt. It was a sweetly struck putt and looked fantastic on the way to the hole but sadly shaved the hole and stayed out, much to everyone's disappointed and especially MacD's. Cara then added the final nail to the coffin and sank her putt to square the match.

I would like to say that the team were absolutely superb. Each and every one of them played their hearts out and gave as much as they could. Their golf over all three days could not be faulted and the support they showed to one another was, yet again, totally and utterly amazing, as was the support they showed to myself and the backroom team. Not a cross word or a moan was heard the whole time and the atmosphere both on and off the course, both at the golf course and back at the hotel was wonderful. They were all keen and eager to play and certainly stepped forward when asked. They were disappointed when rested but took that in their stride. I could not have asked for anything more.

My backroom team were magnificent and held me together each and every day when things were tough. It is hard watching and keeping track of all 6 matches but thanks to the support from President Margaret, Vice-Captain Mary and Selector Linda and the use of modern technology, the airways were busy as messages were being texted back and forth with the individual game situations.

The caddies, as ever, were a treat and got as involved in the matches as the players - egging the players on, giving them lines, helping them to read putts and keeping their concentration going. It was superb to see and such an important aspect of the whole weekend. I never once felt alone while watching as the support from the spectators was fantastic. Thank you to all of you who came along to watch. I sincerely hope you enjoyed the spectacle that was put on. My thanks also go to Gillian Kirkwood who very kindly took on the task of MCLGA website reporter so that all of the readers could be kept up to date with the results.

There is absolutely nothing I would change from the three days but to lose out by half a game point is exceedingly hard to bear. It could not have been closer. We are all devastated but will bounce back with renewed vigour next year - so all counties beware the injured golfers!

Juniors at the Prince Course

On top of all the excitement going on at Baberton yesterday, the Juniors were playing in their monthly 9 holes at the Princes Course. Emma Morrison again showed great form in winning the handicap section with a net 3 under par and Erin Hardy took the honours in the non-handicap section.

The scores were:

1st Handicap: Emma Morrison 49 less 21, net 28
2nd Handicap: Carla Maran 61 less 18, net 43
3rd Handicap: Jane Finlay 61 less 15, net 46

1st Non-handicap: Erin Hardy 69
2nd Non-handicap: Carys Hardy 70
3rd Non-handicap: Heather Kynoch 80

Well done girls and many thanks to Mums, Dads, Sharon Macpherson and May Hardy for helping out yesterday.

Midlothian just pipped on countback

 

Midlothian Captain Tracy Laughland accepts the runner-up trophy

from Baberton Captain, Harry Waugh

Title Decider 4 ½- 4 ½, Northern Counties win with higher "games won" total

Midlothian's hopes to become Scottish County Champions in our centenary year were cruelly dashed today at Baberton on the last day of the 2009 championship.
After leading the foursomes 2-1,  we went into the singles needing only three points to clinch victory.  Were we expecting too much?  Sometimes it seems you can wish for something too much...  it's as if the more you want something the more unobtainable it becomes.
Early on the signs were good...four of the team were up,  and wins from Jane Turner (4/3 against Pam Mackay) and Claire Hargan (3/2 against Alison Bartlett) put another two points on the board.  Karen Marshall lost to youngster Julie Vass,  but we still had Rachael Watton, Louise Fraser and Claire Macdonald with chances to win, and we only needed one more point.
Alas it was not to be... Rachael got a half in her match against Jenny Milne, but Louise and Claire both lost on the 18th to Hannah McCook and Cara Gruber respectively.
At any other time a halved match would be considered respectable in the circumstances,  but in the countback our 8½ points from the Galloway game,  plus 5½ points from Renfrewshire game gave us only 14 points.  Northern Counties had beaten Renfrewshire by 7½ points and beaten Galloway by 7 points... a total of 14½.
Getting to the County Finals is a feat in itself given the competition in the East Division,  and our girls should be proud that they got so close to a winning position.  They all worked extremely hard over the gruelling three days, and this experience can only strengthen their resolve to come back next year stronger and more determined.

NORTHERN COUNTIES 4 ½, MIDLOTHIAN 4 ½

Foursomes: Kelsey MacDonald and Hannah McCook lost to Jane Turner and Rachael Watton 6 and 5; Cara Gruber and Pam Mackay lost to Claire Hargan and Wendy Nicholson 1 hole; Alison Bartlett and Jenny Milne bt Kirsten Blackwood and Claire MacDonald 1 hole (1-2).

Singles: Mackay lost to Turner 4 and 3, Bartlett lost to Hargan 3 and 2, Milne halved with Watton, Julie Vass bt Karen Marshall 5 and 4, McCook bt Louise Fraser 1 hole, Gruber bt Claire MacDonald 2 holes (3 ½-2 ½).

Midlothian Team at Baberton this morning

L to R: Margaret Rodgers (President), Louise Fraser, Rachel Watton, Jane Turner, 

Linda Caine (Selector), Karen Marshall, Tracy Laughland (Captain), Claire Hargan, 

Mary Richardson (Vice-Captain), Wendy Nicholson, Kirsten Blackwood, Claire Macdonald.

Click on the image to see it larger in a new window.

[Image courtesy SLGA]

Midlothian through to Title Decider

Midlothian gave the local spectators a hard time this afternoon before coming up trumps at the end.

Our Midlothian team were 2-1 up after the morning foursomes, and needed three wins in the afternoon to win the match. 
Jane Turner had a fantastic run of single putts in her game against Scottish Champion, Megan Briggs, and came through the winner by 2&1.  Wendy Nicholson lost by 3&2 to Claire Marie Carlton  and Karen Marshall lost by 7&6 to an in-form Eilidh Briggs.  That made  3 wins apiece.
County Champion Claire Hargan won her match at the 16th against Scottish Girls cap Alison McKechin.  That gave us the fourth point.
It was all up to Louise Fraser who was all square playing 16 against Carol Whyte and Claire MacDonald, all square playing 15 against Donna Jackson. 
Louise managed to hold it together and halved her match, and Claire won the 16th, halved 17 and won the 18th for a 2 hole victory. (Final result 5½ - 3½)
Meanwhile the spectators felt as though they had been put through a wringer.

PLEASE COME AND SUPPORT TOMORROW IN THE SHOWDOWN AGAINST NORTHERN COUNTIES (who beat Galloway 7-2 today)

MIDLOTHIAN 5 ½, RENFREWSHIRE 3 ½

Foursomes: Jane Turner, Rachael Watton lost to Megan Briggs, Eilidh Briggs 2 and 1; Claire Hargan, Wendy Nicholson bt Alyson McKechin, Lix Stewart 5 and 4; Kirsten Blackwood, Claire MacDonald bt Claire-Marie Carlton, Donna Jackson 2 and 1 (2-1).

Singles: Turner bt Megan Briggs 2 and 1, Nicholson lost to Carlton 3 and 2, Hargan bt McKechin 3 and 2, Louise Fraser halved with Carol Whyte; Karen Marshall lost to Eilidh Briggs 7 and 6, MacDonald bt Jackson 2 holes (3 ½-2 ½).

Midlothian on course in the County finals

The Midlothian team did us proud yesterday with an 8 ½ to ½ victory over South champions, Galloway, in the Scottish County Finals at Baberton.

Captain Tracy apologises for the lack of coverage on this website.... check Kirkwoodgolf for results each day.

This morning the girls play Renfrewshire... if you have a navy sweater anywhere in your wardrobe put it on and come and support! 

They've brought the foursomes forward to a  9:00 am start  and the singles start at 1:30pm.
Tomorrow the girls play Northern Counties and are second off starting at  9:22 with singles starting at 2:15.

GALLOWAY ½, MIDLOTHIAN 8 ½
Foursomes: Gillian Monteith & Tracy Milligan lost to Jane Turner & Rachael Watton 4 and 3; Christina Meldrum & Sheila McMurtrie halved with Louise Fraser & Karen Marshall; Addi Shamash & Gwen Robson lost to Claire MacDonald & Kirsten Blackwood 7 and 5 (1/2-2 ½).
Singles: Monteith lost to Turner 4 and 3, Milligan lost to Claire Hargan 4 and 3, Meldrum lost to Wendy Nicholson 6 and 4, McMurtrie lost to Fraser 1 hole, Shamash lost to Kirsten Blackwood 3 and 2, Robson lost to Watton 3 and 2 (0-6).

County Finals

The long await is nearing an end with the County Finals getting underway on Friday. Tomorrow sees the team undergo their final preparations as they take to Baberton Golf Course for their final practice round before going into battle.

Midlothian tees off in the first match on Friday against Galloway, with the morning foursomes getting underway at 9.30 am and the afternoon singles teeing off at 13.30. Saturday sees the team face Renfrewshire, again in the first of the matches and with the tee-times the same as on Friday. It is all change on Sunday as the team meets Northern Counties in the second match. This starts at 9.52 am, with the singles beginning at 14.15.

PLEASE, PLEASE come along to support YOUR team and watch the matches. It does make a difference to the team members and you are guaranteed to see some excellent golf. It would be great to see you all.

Amongst the team are 2009 SLGA Ladies' and Girls' Home International players, the current MCLGA Champion, the winner and runner up from the 2009 Champion of Champions as well as Scottish School Representatives. In case you have missed previous "County Final" reports, the team for this weekend is:

Claire Hargan (Mortonhall), Claire MacDonald (Gullane Ladies), Jane Turner (Craigielaw), Karen Marshall (Baberton), Kirsten Blackwood (Craigmillar Park), Louise Fraser (Kingsknowe), Rachael Watton (Mortonhall) and Wendy Nicholson (Broomieknowe), with Gabrielle Macdonald our very able reserve.

On behalf of you all, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all of the girls the best of luck. I hope they all play well, enjoy the matches and put on a great display. They are certainly all up for it!

Senior Ladies' British Open Amateur Championship

After 2 rounds of the Senior Ladies' British Open Amateur Championship at Pyle and Kenfig Golf Club in South Wales, the cut is made tonight with the top 40 and ties going through to the final round tomorrow. Making the cut mark from MCLGA are Noreen Fenton (16th equal), Fiona de Vries (21st) and Pamela Williamson (35th equal). Good luck to you all for the final round tomorrow.

East Vets Autumn Meeting

Many congratulations to Baberton member, Kate Johnston, who yesterday won the East Vets Autumn Meeting which was held at Murrayfield Golf Club. Kate shot a 2 under par net 71 to take the honours from Caroline Johnstone, playing over her home course, by 1 shot. Caroline, however, walked away with the best scratch score, a 4 over par 77. MCLGA members figured highly in the prize winners with Ann Hanna (Murrayfield) finishing in third net place, a further shot behind Caroline, Sandra Ashurst and Norma Richmond (both Murrayfield) a shot further back in joint 4th place and Pam Townsend (Murrayfield) in joint 5th.

Bronze Summer Knockout 2009

Many congratulations to Sheila McComiskey (Turnhouse) who beat Mary Davidson (Kingsknowe) in this year's Bronze summer knockout competition.

Junior Championship 2009

Congratulations to Kate McIntosh (Broomieknowe) who, today, won the MCLGA Junior Championship at the Merchants Golf Club. With a fantastic score of 72, Kate was 4 over the day's CSS and reduces her handicap to 6. The handicap prize went to fellow Broomieknowe member, Hannah Scott with a net 73.

Only 6 junior member were available to play in today's competition and enjoyed not only wonderful weather but also a golf course in great condition. Our thanks, not only to the Merchants for allowing us the courtesy of their course and the hospitality within the clubhouse but also to the Lady's Captain, Pat Smith, and Isobel Halliday who very kindly gave up their afternoon to walk around with the groups and ball spot.

All of the girls enjoyed their day and they were joined for the prizegiving by the winners of the non-handicap running competition at the Princes Course, Julia Smith (Murrayfield), and the 8-hole non-handicap prize at the Spring Meeting, Emma Morrison (Craigmillar Park). Heather Laing (Glencorse) won the handicap running competition at the Princes Course and Katherine Fisher (Baberton) won the Livingstone Trophy for the most improved golfer this season, having reduced her handicap from 36 to 27.

The results were as follows:

2009 Junior Champion and Winner of the Brown Trophy: Kate McIntosh 72

Championship Runner-up: Gillian Simpson 83

1st Handicap and winner of the Marshall Trophy: Hannah Scott 83 less 10, net 73

2nd Handicap: Heather Laing 104 less 24, net 80

Senior Ladies' British Open Amateur Championship

The Seniors take off to South Wales next week for the Senior Ladies' British Open Amateur Championship which is being held at Pyle and Kenfig Golf Course from 15th-17th September. Taking part in the race for the Clark Trophy are Fiona de Vries (St Rule), Karen Ballantyne (Craigmillar Park), Ruth Brown (Lothianburn), Noreen Fenton (Dunbar) and Pamela Williamson (Baberton). They play 36 holes on Tuesday and Wednesday with the top 40 and ties playing a further 18 holes on Thursday. Good luck to you all.

Ladies' Home Internationals

Your President, Captain and Team Selector had an outing today to Irvine to watch the final day of the Ladies' Home Internationals. A couple of other MCLGA Members also had the same idea of watching the conclusion to the very exciting matches. Having beaten Ireland on Wednesday and England yesterday, it was all set up. If Scotland could come out on top of their next battle against defending champions Wales, the title would be theirs, for the first time since 1991. Wales had started with a win against England and a draw against Ireland so were also on for the title, if they managed to beat the home side.

The morning foursomes saw MCLGA member Jane Turner again partnering Kylie Walker in the final pairing. Having beaten the English couple in yesterday's foursomes by 1 hole, the pair recorded a 2&1 victory, helping Scotland to a 2-1 lead at lunchtime. The afternoon, sadly, did not go to plan. Jane was played at number 3 and came up against some quite amazing golf. Playing against the Welsh Champion, all she could do was watch as birdie after birdie was thrown at her and her opponent finished 6 under par for the14 holes played. Sadly Scotland lost the afternoon singles 5-1 and therefore the match 6-3 and Wales walked off with the Trophy.

It was a great performance by the Scottish side and our commiserations go to the entire team, the Captain, Lesley Nicholson, and the Manager, Claire Hargan. But, having said that, our congratulations also go to them on a superb performance.

Junior Championship 2009

The MCLGA Junior Championship is being held this Sunday, 13th September 2009, at the Merchants Golf Club.

There are not a lot of entrants but we wish you all an enjoyable game, good golf and slightly nicer and less windy weather than we have today!

The draw is:

12:30
Gillian Simpson
Kate McIntosh
Hannah Scott

12:42
Heather Laing
Katherine Fisher
Sally Naysmith


Please bring an up-to-date handicap certificate.
Please be at the tee 10 minutes before your designated tee time.
Please note that normal dress rules apply both on the course and in the clubhouse and no mobile phones should be used either on the course or in the clubhouse.

If anyone needs to call off, please either e-mail Joan Simpson or phone her on 0131 337 6577.

Champion of Champions Final

As the Juniors started their next 5-month block of lessons at the Braids Driving Range, the Final of the Champion of Champions knock out was taking place at the Royal Burgess Golf Club. Having heard that the course had been closed for the last 2 days due to the weather, we were very lucky to have the competition played and, although wet in patches, it appeard to be in great condition.

After a long road to get there, a great final ensued between Louise Fraser (Kingsknowe) and Wendy Nicholson (Broomieknowe). It was fantastic to see so many people out supporting both girls. At one point I counted around 50 spectators - it was great to see the fairways lined, the greens surrounded and everyone enjoying the golf ...... and what golf we were privileged to watch!


Having halved the first 5 holes in 1 over par figures, Wendy took the lead at the 6th with a birdie, only to be pulled back to all square at the 7th, with another birdie. Louise won the next 2 holes as well (par, birdie), to reach the turn 2 up. Wendy pulled one back with a birdie at the 10th, only for Louise to answer with birdies at the 11th and 12th. Halves at 13 and 14 left Louise 3 up with 4 to play, but Wendy's par at the 15th was enough to see the lead reduced to 2 up. However, a couple of visits to bunkers up the 16th to allow her caddy some raking practice, led to Wendy conceding the 16th hole, and the match was all over with a 3&2 win to Louise.

Congratulations to both players for a great match and to Louise, our Champion of Champions for 2009.

Many thanks to the Royal Burgess Golf Club for allowing us the use of their course for the final and their clubhouse for the presentation of the prizes. Thanks also to the Edinburgh Ladies' Golf Shop for sponsoring this event and to our referee, Mary Richardson, who was not tested on too many occasions this afternoon - except to decide on who was to play first! Also, a big thank you to all of the spectators who ventured out to watch. We hope to see you again in a couple of weeks at the County Finals at Baberton.

Dunfermline Building Society Junior Masters

A huge apology to MCLGA Junior Member Heather Laing (Glencorse) who qualified, through her home club, and played in the Regional Final for the DBS Junior Masters at Lothianburn on Wednesday 5th August. Having lead the field for a large part of the day, Heather finally finished in fourth place and joins Gabrielle Macdonald in the Grand Final which is being held on Sunday 11th October 2009 at the Queen's Course at Gleneagles.

Home Internationals

I have been asked by the very able manager, Claire Hargan, to remind you all of the Home Internationals. I posted an item about this last week but remember, it is being played next week, that's on Wednesday 9th, Thursday 10th and Friday 11th September and is being held at the Irvine (Bogside) Golf Club - on home soil! The Scots have not won this event since 1991 but the 2009 team includes Curtis Cup players as well as winners of several international amateur events. The team must have an excellent chance of winning!

If you want to see some great golf and some fantastic matches, why not head over to Irvine next Wednesday to see England against Wales and Scotland against Ireland, on Thursday to see Ireland take on Wales and Scotland take on England or on Friday when Wales will face Scotland and England will face Ireland? The foursomes matches (3 per match) tee off at 8.30 am, with the singles (6 per match) starting at 1.10 pm.

To remind you, the fantastic Scotland Team who will be playing its heart out to win this event is:
Lesley Nicholson (Captain)
Carly Booth (Comrie)
Megan Briggs (Kilmacolm)
Louise Kenney (Pitreavie)
Kelsey MacDonald (Nairn Dunbar)
Laura Murray (Alford)
Pamela Pretswell (Bothwell Castle)
Jane Turner (Craigielaw)
Kylie Walker (Buchanan Castle)

So as you don't have any excuses not to go (!), the directions for reaching the golf course are:

From Glasgow take M77 then A78 to Greenock. Bypass Irvine. 500 yards after Eglington Interchange travel under a bridge then turn off at the Re-cycling sign "Bogside". Continue for 3/4 mile along this road until you reach a sign for Irvine Golf Club.

Go on, support the girls. It is only once every 4 years that this is held in Scotland. Take a picnic, wear purple or tartan and have a great day out!

Scottish Schools

The Scottish Schools Golf Association take on their English counterparts in the annual schools golf international match on Monday 14th September. Being held at Westerwood Hotel and Golf Course in Cumbernauld, Gabrielle Macdonald (Craigielaw) and Rachael Watton (Mortonhall) are two of the six girls in the team of 18. Good luck to you both.

Irish Senior Women's Open Strokeplay

Good luck to Pamela Williamson who takes part in the Irish Senior Women's Open Strokeplay which is being held at Laytown and Bettystown Golf Club from the 8-10th September. Two stroke play rounds will be played on Tuesday and Wednesday with the top 40 qualifying for the final 18 holes on Thursday.

Five-aside leagues

Congratulations to Mortonhall and Liberton Golf Clubs who won the Division 1 and Division 2 five-aside league titles respectively with 13 and 12 match points respectively. Division 1 runner up was Kingsknowe Golf Club who won on game points having had the same number of match points as Baberton and Harburn. Division 2 runner up was Murrayfield with 10 match points. Prestonfield and Craigmillar Park Golf Clubs are the teams relegated to Division 2 next year.

European Senior Ladies Team Championship

Scotland, represented by MCLGA members Fiona de Vries (St Rule) and Fiona Hunter (Baberton), finished in 6th place in the European Senior Ladies Team Championship in Ireland this week.

Scotland had qualified for the championship flight in 5th place. They unfortnately went down to England 3½ - 1½ on Wednesday but then defeated top qualifiers Ireland 3-2 on Thursday to reach a play off with France for 5th place. They lost 4-1 to the French - oh la la!

The Gibson Cup

The Gibson Cup is again being held at the Braids Golf Course on Saurday 26th and Sunday 27th September 2009. The entry fee is £22/couple and guarantees you at least 2 rounds of golf. The closing date is Friday 11th September and the entry forms have to be returned to Edinburgh Leisure, at the address given on the form. Paper copies of these entry forms should be at your clubs, however, if there are none there for whatever reason, please e-mail Anne Brownie who will happily send you a form by return e-mail.

MCLGA Autumn Meeting

A great day was had today at Kingsknowe Golf Course where the MCLGA Autumn Meeting was being held. The weather almost held out for the entire day but it would not have been the Scottish Summer we have come to know and love if there had not been the couple of exceedingly heavy showers towards the end which brought the evening players in soaking wet. As well as that there was a wee bit of wind, which one member, who shall remain nameless, had a tussle with! The Captain, Vice-Captain and President all watched in a fit of giggles as she was seen to cross the 18th fairway and head towards the 9th green at great speed after her umbrella which had decided to part company with her, leaving her trolley to then overturn in the wind.

However, despite the wind and, latterly, the rain some great scores were recorded with Fiona McLaren (Baberton), Karina Matson (Lothianburn) and Susan Dalrymple (Craigielaw) all returning net 69s to the CSS of 72, and Louise Fraser's (Kingsknowe) scratch score of 74 holding out for the whole day. In the bronze section a net 73 by Pat Jackson (Kingsknowe) led the way with Carol Clark's (Craigmillar Park) 96 being the best gross score.

Thank you to Kingsnowe Golf Club for all their help throughout the day and for the use of their course. Thank you also to everyone who turned out to support the competition. Also for the raffle prizes - it was a great raffle today with a lot of prizes. We raised £150 for the County Juniors.

The results are as follows:

CSS 72 (counting competition)

Overall:

Best Overall Net and the McIntyre Trophy: Fiona McLaren (Baberton) - 83 less 14, net 69 (on the better inward half)
2nd Overall Net: Susan Dalrymple (Craigielaw) - 84 less 15, net 69 (on the last 6 holes)

1st Scratch and Lady Ford Cup: Louise Fraser (Kingsknowe) - 74
2nd Scratch: Gabrielle Macdonald (Cragielaw) - 77 on better inward half

Silver Division:

1st Handicap: Karina Matson (Lothianburn) - 80 less 11, net 69
2nd Handicap: Sandra Cackett (Broomieknowe) - 89 less 17, net 72

Bronze Division:

1st Scratch: Carol Clark (Craigmillar Park) - 96
1st Handicap: Pat Jackson (Kingsknowe) - 99 less 26, net 73

There was only one two - Catriona Shedden (Murrayfield) at the first hole.

ESGGA Autumn Meeting

The East of Scotland Girls' Golfing Association held their Autumn Meeting at Craigielaw yesterday on a calm day - unheard of for Craigielaw! Many congratulations to Broomieknowe pair, Kate McIntosh and Hannah Scott who walked away with the leading scratch and best overall net scores respectively. Both scored gross 77s to a CSS of 72 but with Hannah playing off 11, her net 66 won her the best overall net score by 4 shots. Gabrielle MacDonald, playing on her home patch, won the Under 18 net prize with a 79, net 75. This result pushed Kate into an overall lead in the ESGGA Order of Merit Table and with only the individual County Junior Championships to come, it looks as though her lead is unassailable. Gabrielle is currently in second place with Hannah in fifth. Well done girls! A great result this weekend and best of luck for the Junior Championship.

MCLGA v Baberton Men

In preparation for the County Finals in a few weeks, tonight saw the County Team take on Baberton Men in a friendly greensomes match. Five of the team and the reserve were amongst those available to play and the evening gave the girls a valuable chance to not only play the course from different tees but also to get some top tips from the men. A big thank you to everyone who played and to all of the guidance on offer. Thank you also to the Baberton Board for agreeing to the match, to Norrie Robertson for organising the men's team and to Maggie MacPherson for being there to set everyone off.

It was a very windy night with the end of Hurricane Bill swirling around and it became bitterly cold by the end - even although the men insisted on playing round in shirt sleeves! In a very tight match, 2 games were decided on the 17th, while the other 2 went to the 18th. Unfortuantely the girls lost out by 2.5-1.5.

Kirsten Blackwood & Claire Hargan lost to Stephen Marshall & Andy Munro - 1 down
Gabrielle Macdonald & Kate McIntosh halved with Ron Bradly & Sandy McComish
Wendy Nicholson & Karen Marshall beat Colin Turner (who was partnerless) 2&1
Claire MacDonald & Sal Shepherd lost to Dougie Waugh & Ian Hunter 2&1

It should also be announced that the team for the County Finals will remain the same as that which played in the Inter-County Matches i.e.

Kirsten Blackwood (Craigmillar Park)
Louise Fraser (Kingsknowe)
Claire Hargan (Mortonhall)
Claire MacDonald (Gullane Ladies)
Karen Marshall (Baberton)
Wendy Nicholson (Broomieknowe)
Jane Turner (Craigielaw)
Rachael Watton (Mortonhall)

Reserve: Gabrielle Macdonald (Craigielaw)

The matches, which are being held at Baberton Golf Club from the 18th-20th September, will see:

Galloway v Midlothian, and Renfrewshire v Northern Counties on the Friday
Midlothian v Renfrewshire, and Galloway v Northern Counties on the Saturday
Renfrewshire v Galloway, and Northern Counties v Midlothian on the Sunday

PLEASE come along to support your team. The morning foursomes tee off at 9.30 am each day with the afternoon singles beginning at 1.30 pm. It promises to be a great 3 days of competition and Midlothian has a great chance of retaining the trophy for another year within the East Division.

European Senior Ladies' Team Championship

Good luck from all in Midlothian to the Scottish Team taking part next week in the European Ladies' Team Championship which is being held at Dun Laoghaire Golf Club in Dublin. As previously reported the team is captained by Pamela Williamson (Baberton) and includes Fiona de Vries (St Rule) and Fiona Hunter (Baberton), with Noreen Fenton (Dunbar) as 1st reserve.

We all hope you play well and enjoy the tournament.

Womens Home Internationals

Many congratulation to Jane Turner (Craigielaw) who has been named as one of the 8 members of the Scottish Team for the Women's Home Internationals. She is having a fantastic year, and this just caps it off! She is joined by Carly Booth (Comrie), Megan Briggs (Kilmacolm), Louise Kenney (Pitreavie), Kelsey MacDonald (Nairn Dunbar), Laura Murray (Alford), Pamela Pretswell (Bothwell Castle) and Kylie Walker (Buchanan Castle), in a team captained by Lesley Nicholson and managed by, Midlothian's, Claire Hargan.

The matches are being played from the 9th-11th September at Irvine (Bogside) Golf Course in Ayrshire and Scotland will play Ireland on day 1, England on day 2 and Wales on day 3. The format is the same as in the Inter-County matches with 3 foursomes being played in the morning and 6 singles in the afternoon.

Scotland have a very strong team and must have an excellent chance of winning the Home Internationals for the first time since 1991. As it is on home soil it would be great for the girls to win. Why not go along to support and cheer on your team? You are guaranteed to see some great golf and fantastic matches, into the bargain!

MCLGA Junior Championship

Just a reminder to all of our juniors with handicaps about the Junior Championship. This is being held on Sunday 13th September at Merchants Golf Club with tee-times starting from 12.30 pm. The closing date for entry, if you have not yet done so, is this coming Saturday i.e. 29th August. If you would like to enter, forms can be downloaded from the website by clicking on "Junior Entry Forms" on the left hand side of this page and then on "Competition Entry Forms". Please can you either e-mail your entries to Joan Simpson or post them to her at 4 Craigleith View, Edinburgh EH4 3JZ.

We hope to see as many of you as possible at the Championship. The Junior Prizegiving will be held after the golf.

East of Scotland Championship 2009

The East of Scotland Championship is being held at Mortonhall Golf Club on Sunday 4 October 2009. The competition is 18 holes stroke play and is open to all County members. Tee times are available from 10am. The entry fee is £10 and cheques should be made payable to MCLGA. Click HERE for an entry form or email you entry to Agnes Leslie. Closing date is 11th September.

To download an information leaflet click HERE.

Ladies' British Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship

Congratulations to Jane Turner who qualified 18th equal for the final two rounds of the British Amateur Stroke Play Championship at Royal Aberdeen Golf Club. On the first day, in horrendous conditions (winds of up to 30 mph), Jane shot an 85, 13 over the extremely testing par but only 6 over the CSS. Day 2 was even worse! Gales rising to 40 mph brought lashing rain with them. Somehow through it all, Jane held things together to shoot a very creditable 77, 5 over the par but 2 under the CSS - the 6th best score of the day. Good luck in the next 2 rounds Jane. Our fingers are crossed that the conditions improve ever so slightly!

SLGA County Golf Open Meeting

Congratulations to Louise Fraser (Kingsknowe) who came second, winning second scratch and the GMH Muirhead Tankard, at the SLGA County Golf Open Meeting held, yesterday, at Dullatur Golf Club. Louise lost out on first scratch on a last 9 hole count back but won second scratch on a last 3 hole count back and shot an 82 to the CSS of 76.

Swanston's Par 3 Open Competition

The longest running Open competition finally came to a conclusion on Monday 17th August, having started on Saturday 18th July. If you can remember back, Swanston (New) Golf Club was holding an Open Competition for members and non-members over their par 3 Templar Course, to launch their short course. This was open to all categories of golfer including Novices, i.e. those without handicaps, but due to the Scottish summer weather conditions, the day had to be abandoned half way through and the various individuals were left to organise their matches whenever they could.

When we last reported on this, MCLGA Junior Member, Julia Smith from Murrayfield, was still in the running. Julia successfully made it through to the final, which was eventually played on Monday night. The Novice section being open not only to any age group was also open to either sex and so, Julia, who was seeded no. 7, met Adam Pollock who was around 14 years older than her and was seeded no. 1. A great final ensued with Julia playing excellent golf but unfortunately going down by a 3&1 margin. Julia, who won the MCLGA Junior non-handicap running competition at the Princes Course on Sunday (the Caton Trophy), can be seen, above, pictured with the runners up trophy. Many congratulations, Julia!

Autumn Meeting

The draw for the Autumn Meeting being held at Kingsknowe Golf Club on Tuesday 1st September 2009 has now been made and can be viewed by clicking the link ("Autumn Draw") on the left hand side of this page.

If anyone finds that they are no longer available to play, please contact the Captain on 0131 445 5957 prior to the day or Kingsknowe Professional, Chris Morris, on 0131 441 4030 on the day.

Please note that, as always, a raffle will be held on behalf of the County Juniors and any prizes will be gratefully received, on the day.

We hope that the weather is good, you all play well and enjoy your games.

9-holes at the Princes Course

Even in the dreadful conditions this morning that would have kept many a golfer at home, safely snuggled up in their bed, 7 juniors turned up to take part in the monthly 9-hole competition at the Princes Course. The rain was throwing it down at the start and the wind added to the challenge of the long first hole. But the girls were not to be put off as they, once again, recorded some great scores. Starting with an 8, Heather Laing pulled things together to record her best round of the year and score, net, one below par, showing that her recent reduction in handicap (from 30 to 26) is giving her no cause for concern. She was closely followed into second place by Emma Morrison with a net 3 over par. In the non-handicap section, Julia Smith again had a terrific score of 57 which included a 10 at the 6th hole - what could have been! The Hardy's were not to be out done, with older sister, Erin, finishing in 2nd place and Carys in third. Certainly the weather did not seem to upset the scoring, with Lisa Macpherson recording her third best round and Joanna Lamb her second best.

Well done girls and thanks again to everyone who helped out this morning and to Karen Marshall for kindly offering her time.

The results are:

1st Handicap: Heather Laing (43-13) net 30
2nd Handicap: Emma Morrison (55-21) net 34

1st Non-handicap: Julia Smith 57
2nd Non-handicap: Erin Hardy 66
3rd Non-handicap: Carys Hardy 70

August is the sixth and final month of the running competition and the final points table is as follows:

Handicap:
Heather Laing - 12 points
Emma Morrison - 11 points
Carla Maran - 6 points

Non-handicap:
Julia Smith - 21 points
Erin Hardy - 11 points
Sophie Aitchison - 9 points
Carys Hardy - 8 points
Kirsten McCorquodale - 7 points
Emma Morrison - 7 points
Lisa MacPherson - 6 points
Joanna Lamb - 4 points
Gemma Laughland - 4 points
Caitlin Turner - 3 points
Eilidh MacKinnon - 2 points
Anna Maran - 2 points
Cara McCorquodale - 2 points
Emma Watson - 2 points
Holly Gordon - 1 point

In the handicap section, Emma has put up a tremendous fight. She only got her handicap and, therefore, moved into the handicap section half way through the counting season. Congratulations to eventual winner, Heather who narrowly beats Emma to win the MacPherson Trophy for the handicap winner and to Julia who has played superbly in the non-handicap section and wins the Caton Trophy.

Ladies' British Open Amateur Stroke-Play Championship

Last week all attention was on the girls at the Girls' British Open Amateur Championship but this week it is the turn of the ladies with the Ladies' British Open Amateur Stroke-Play Championship being held at Royal Aberdeen Golf Club from 19-21 August. Unfortunately Claire MacDoanld (Gullane Ladies) has had to withdraw due to work commitments but MCLGA is ably represented by Claire Hargan (Mortonhall), Gillian Simpson (Murrayfield) and Jane Turner (Craigielaw). Good luck to all of you. We hope the sun shines and the golf is good.

Strathtyrum Tournament 2009

A great display was put on by the Midlothian girls in the match play stages of the Strathtyrum Trophy over the last few days. Of the 6 girls who qualified, 3 made it through to the quarter finals with Pamela Williamson losing out narrowly by 2 holes to Ann Ramsay from Kirriemuir and Louise Fraser going down by 5&4 to the eventual trophy winner Rachel Hanlon from St Regulus, playing on her home soil. The third member of the trio, Karen Marshall, made it through the quarter finals, after a tight match, but succombed in the semi finals, by 3&2, to Elaine Clark from Manchester. Obviously Elaine took to the early morning rise better than Karen - they teed of at 7.24 this morning!

Strathtyrum Tournament 2009

Congratulations to Karen Marshall who leads the way in pole position into the match-play stages of the Strathtyrum Tournament at St Andrews. Karen is joined by Louise Fraser (6th qualifier), Shona Simpson (16th qualifier), Sarah Ledingham (19th qualifier), Pamela Williamson (23rd qualifier) and Joan Marshall (24th qualifier). The match-play starts today, with the finals taking place on Friday afternoon. Good luck to all.

Scotland Finish Runners Up in Home Internationals

Scotland Girls finished runners up at the Home Internationals with a 4 ½-4 ½ draw with Wales, winning the Swansea Spoon for finishing second. Scotland’s top points winners were Rachael Watton (Mortonhall) and Eilidh Briggs (Kilmacolm), both with 4 points out of six. Well done once again Rachael and good luck in leading the Scottish team in the International Team Event at the Girls' British Open Amateur Championship being held at West Lancashire Golf Club from 10th-14th August.

Scotland Vets Retain Miller Stirling Trophy

Congratulations to the Scotland team including Fiona de Vries and Fiona Hunter on bringing the Miller Stirling Trophy back to Scotland at the Veteran Ladies Golf Association Jamboree in Bath this week. They completed a 100 % record yesterday by beating England South 5 ½-3 ½. Sounds like they were playing in a bath at times with the weather conditions. Hope you dry out soon ladies!

Strathtyrum Tournament 2009

The Strathtyrum Tournament will be held over the Eden and New Courses in St Andrews from 10 - 14 August. Taking part are Karen Marshall, Joan Marshall, Pamela Williamson (all Baberton), Louise Fraser (Kingsknowe), and Shona Simpson, Elizabeth Simpson and Sarah Ledingham (all Murrayfield). Good luck to you all.

VLGA Jamboree

Scotland recorded another victory today in Veteran Ladies Golf Association Jamboree at Bath Golf Club today, beating England Midlands 5 - 3. The match was decided on a singles only basis due to waterlogged greens in the morning. Fiona Hunter (Barberton) contributed to the victory with a 3 & 2 victory over Denise Parker.

Dunfermline Building Society Junior Masters - Regional Final Lothianburn

Congratulations to Gabrielle Macdonald who, representing MCLGA, finished 7th in the Junior Masters Regional Final at Lothianburn today. Gabrielle has qualified for the Grand Final to be played over the Queen's Course at Gleneagles on Sunday 11 October 2009. Well done Gabrielle and good luck at Gleneagles.

Girls Home Internationals

Sadly Sotland suffered an 8-1 defeat at the hands of England today. However, well done to Rachael Watton (Mortonhall), who partnered by Eilidh Briggs (Kilmacolm), won Scotland's only point of the day. Good luck to the team tomorrow against Wales.

St Andrews Junior (U23) Ladies' Open 2009

Congratulations to Jane Turner (Craigielaw) who finished 3rd in St Andrews Junior Ladies' Open Individual Stroke Play competition with a 75. Today she recorded a 3&2 win over Ashley Smith (Monifieth) in the Golf Monthly Trophy (scratch) to reach a 2nd round tie against Carly Booth (Comrie) over the Old Course tomorrow (Wednesday). Good luck Jane.

VLGA Jamoree

Fiona de Vries (St Rule) and Fiona Hunter (Baberton) helped Scotland to an excellent start of their defence of the Miller Stirling Trophy in the Veteran Ladies Golf Association Jamboree at Bath Golf Club today, both wining their foursomes matches (2&1 and 6&5) and Fiona de Vries winning her singles match 2&1. The result was Scotland 7 ½, England North 1 ½.

Girls Home Internationals

Well done to Rachael Watton (Mortonhall) who helped Scotland girls beat the European champions Ireland on the opening day of the Under-18 girls’ home international matches at Fairhaven Golf Club, today. Rachael contributed to the 5-4 victory with a win in the morning foursomes with a tremendous 2 and 1 win over Leona Maguire in the singles! Good luck to Rachael and the team tomorrow against England – go get em girl!.

Riccarton Rosebowl

Congratulations to Claire Hargan (Mortonhall) for an excellent 3rd (equal) place (149) in the Riccarton Rosebowl SLGA 36-hole Order of Merit tournament at Hamilton Golf Club on Sunday. Louise Fraser (Kingsknowe) finished 12th on 158.

Teams to represent Scotland

Congratulations to Rachael Watton (Mortonhall) who, together with Kelsey MacDonald (Nairn Dunbar), has been chosen to represent Scotland at the Total Belgian International Juniors Tournament being held at the Royal Golf Club of Belgium from the 26th to 29th August. Also to Jane Turner (Craigielaw) who has been named as one of the reserves for the team to represent Scotland at the Ladies' British Open Stroke Play Championship being held at Royal Aberdeen Golf Club from the 19th to 21st August.

Next week sees the St Andrews Junior Ladies' Tournament. This is being held from the 3rd - 6th August on the Old and Jubilee Courses at St Andrews. Once again I have failed to find a starting line up but good luck to all who are entering this competition.

All-Women Pro-Am

I received the following letter from Karyn Burns and was asked to put it on the County website for you all to see. There are still a couple of team slots available and so if anyone is interested in submitting a team of 3 and entering the Pro-Am, please contact Karyn. Vikki Laing is one of the Professionals taking part.

Hi Ladies!

The date and venue is now confirmed for my ALL-Women Pro-Am! The event will be held at Archerfield Links Golf Club over the Fidra Course on the 21st August 2009.

I am delighted to have the co-operation of Archerfield Links, this fantastic and exclusive venue will be the perfect setting for what will prove to be an excellent and enlightening fun filled day for all involved! I am also excited at the prospect of having the Top Scottish Lady Professionals of the Ladies European Tour and the PGA all together for the event to make your day most entertaining!

Availability for teams is Limited .... I have space for ONLY 10 teams of 3 amateur players! Cost of entry for Each Team will be £495 (£165 per person).

This will include:
Tea/Coffee & Bacon Roll on Arrival
Short Teaching Clinic/Q&A session
18 holes (Format TBC)
Prizegiving
3 Course Dinner inc wine.

Also, I have specifically chosen this date as it coincides with day one of the 2009 Solheim Cup which is being played in the USA. Following dinner, coverage of the Solheim Cup will be screened for us in the clubhouse should you so wish to make an evening of it!

I have also agreed a very special rate of £150/twin room in the Pavillion rooms within Archerfield, however there is limited availability on the number of rooms available. I can provide further information on alternative accommodation on entry should you so require.

If you have any queries please don't hesitate to contact me. If you wish to get your team signed up for what I'm sure will be one of your most memorable golf days EVER then please email or call me as soon as possible to confirm your place. Entries are opened to all players with an LGU Handicap!

Happy Golfing Always!

Best Regards,
Karyn Burns
PGA (AA) Professional
Sports Massage Therapist
E-mail karynburns@yahoo.com
Mobile: +447720442492

Riccarton Rosebowl

The recent mad golf spell continues this weekend. After the Mackie Bowl at Gullane Golf Club on Sunday in which 3 MCLGA members finished within the top 10 (Rachael Watton (Mortonhall) 6th, Louise Fraser (Kingsknowe) 7th and Claire MacDonald (Gulland Ladies) 8th equal), this weekend's action takes place on Sunday at Hamilton Golf Club with the playing of the Riccarton Rosebowl. Taking part in the 36 hole SLGA Order of Merit event are Linda Bain (Lochend), Louise Fraser, Claire Hargan (Mortonhall) and Gabrielle Macdonald (Craigielaw). Good luck to all of you.

MCLGA Summer Meeting

85 ladies turned out to enjoy the County Summer Meeting at Broomieknowe Golf Club. A great scratch score of 76 was posted in the second match of the day by Gabrielle Macdonald (Craigielaw) which stayed in the lead until Wendy Nicholson (Broomieknowe), in the second last group of the day, posted a score of 75. This was short lived as the last group left the course with Claire Hargan (Mortonhall) recording a 74 to take 1st scratch and the Corstorphine Salver. Gabrielle, however, wins the 1st handicap in the Silver Division. The Dumayne Bowl for the best overall net was won, by one shot, by Carol Clark (Craigmillar Park), a lunchtime starter, while the scratch winner in the Bronze Division and winner of the Murphy Trophy was Sheila Hunter (Murrayfield), another lunchtime starter. The winner of the Bronze Handicap came from the late afternoon starters with Anne McMillan (Kingsknowe) coming home with a net 74.

Our thanks, as ever, go to Broomieknowe Golf Club for the use of their course, which I believe was in great condition, to the professionals for handling the two's sweep and the bar and catering staff for dealing with our thirst and hunger pangs. Thank you also to Lady Captain Anne Bowden, Sandra Hennessy and Moyra Statham for their time on the registration desk and also to all of the members who donated raffle prizes and to those who bought tickets. We managed to raise £133 for the MCLGA Juniors.

The results are as follows:

CSS 74 (counting competition)

Overall:

Best overall net and the Dumayne Bowl: Carol Clark (Craigmillar Park) - 92 less 22, net 70

2nd overall net: Janet Collin (Liberton) - 92 less 21, net 71 (on the better inward half)

Bronze Division:

1st handicap: Anne McMillan (Kingsknowe) - 98 less 24, net 74

1st scratch and Murphy Trophy: Sheila Hunter (Murrayfield) - 96

Silver Division:

1st handicap: Gabrielle Macdonald (Cragielaw) - 76 less 5, net 71

2nd handicap: Anne Brownie - 80 less 7, net 73 (on better inward half)

1st scratch and Corstorphine Salver: Claire Hargan (Mortonhall) - 74

2nd scratch: Wendy Nicholson (Broomieknowe) - 75

There were 4 twos, each winning 6 Titleist NXT Extreme golf balls:

Christine Clements (Lothianburn) and Marion Duff (Merchants) at the 5th and Karen Marshall (Baberton) and Wendy Nicholson (Broomieknowe) at the 11th.

Thank you once again to everyone who was involved on the day and supported the Summer Meeting.

Fun Girls in Golf Open

Congratulations to junior MCLGA member, Julia Smith, who is having a fantastic summer with her golf. On Sunday, Julia took part in the "Fun Girls in Golf" Competition being held at the Children's Golf Course in Gullane. Open to girls both with and without handicaps, she played round the 12 holes in 46 shots (with halves of 25 and 21) to win the event by 1 shot. Not only that but she also played in the the Swanston Par 3 Championship but rain stopped play as she made her way into the quarter finals. Having now played that round she is waiting to hear the date of her semi-final tie. Well done, Julia and we look forward to hearing more about the Par 3 Championship. Good luck in the semi-final.

Rachael Livingstone turns Pro

Congratulations to Rachael Livingstone who has been accepted onto the PGA Foundation Degree Course which will lead her to become a qualified PGA Professional. She will be trained as an Assistant Professional at Musselburgh Golf Club and will be eligible to enter Tartan Tour Pro Tournaments next year. We would like to thank Rachael for all her commitment to MCLGA over her junior and "senior" years and wish her well for a very enjoyable future in the Professional ranks.

Scottish Vets

Whilst the girls are playing in the Home Internationals from 4th-6th August, the Scottish Vets will be defending the Miller Stirling Trophy which they won last year at a rain drenched Southerness Golf Club. This year's jamboree against teams from England North, England Midlands and England South takes place at Bath Golf Club and the Scotland team includes Fiona de Vries (St Rule) and Fiona Hunter (Baberton), with Pamela Williamson as Vice-Captain. Good luck to everyone involved and we hope that the Trophy makes it way back to Scotland.

Mackie bowl

Good luck to all MCLGA members who are playing in the Mackie Bowl tomorrow, Sunday 26th July, at Gullane. I know there are quite a few of you but, my computer skills are such that I have failed to find a starting line up!

Summer Meeting

The draw for the Summer Meeting being held at Broomieknowe Golf Club on Tuesday 28th July 2009 has now been made and can be viewed by clicking on the "Summer Draw" link on the left hand side of this page.

If anyone finds that they are no longer available to play in the Summer Meeting, please contact Agnes Leslie on 0131 445 2411 prior to the day or contact the Professional's shop at Broomieknowe on the day.

Plase note that a raffle on behalf of the MCLGA Juniors will be being held. Any raffle prizes will be gratefully received and can be donated on the day.

SLGA announce teams

Following the Scottish Girls' Championship at Lanark this week, the SLGA has announced the teams to represent Scotland in the Girls' Home International Matches and the Girls' British Open Amateur Championship. Rachael Watton (Mortonhall) has been chosen as one of the team of 8 for the Girls' Home International Matches being held at Fairhaven Golf Club in Lancashire from the 4th-6th August and also to play and Captain the team of 3 whose scores will count for Scotland in the International Team Event at the Girls' British Open Amateur Championship being held at West Lancashire Golf Club from 10th-14th August. Gabrielle Macdonald (Craigielaw) was named as one of the reserves for the Girls' Home Internationals, and the team will be managed by Karen Marshall (Baberton).

The Scotland Team to take part in the European Senior Ladies' Team Championship at Dun Laoghaire Golf Club in Dublin from the 1st-4th September has also been announced. To be Captained by Pam Williamson (Baberton), the team will include Fiona de Vries (St Rule) and Fiona Hunter (Baberton) with Noreen Fenton (Dunbar) as 1st reserve.

Congratulations and good luck to all of you.

Juniors at the Princes Course

This month 8 enthusiastic juniors took part in the mothly 9-hole competition at the Princes Course. On a lovely day, although slightly windy, Emma Morrison continued her good form playing to her handicap, while Heather Laing was 1 over her handicap. In the non-handicap section, Julia Smith had another good score as did Erin Hardy who hit a tremendous drive at the 9th hole straight through the green. Carys Hardy, struggling with a new grip, came in third and when she got her new grip right, struck the ball exceptionally well. Joanna Lamb had a fabulous 4 at the 4th hole and great shots were hit by both Lisa MacPherson and Cara McCorquodale.

Well done girls and thanks again to all the helpers.

Before we get to today's results, a quick congratulations to Julia Smith who yesterday took part in the Par-3 Open Championships which were being held at Swanston Golf Club. Julia won through in her section and had made it successfully to the quarter-finals when rain stopped play! She is waiting to hear when the remaining rounds are to be played but we wish her all the best for the remainder of the competition.

Today's reults:

1st Handicap: Emma Morrison (52-21) net 31
2nd Handicap: Heather Laing (47-15) 32

1st Non-Handicap: Julia Smith 55
2nd Non-Handicap: Erin Hardy 62
3rd non-Handicap: Carys Hardy 85

Points after month 5 of the running competition:

Handicap:
Heather Laing 9 points
Emma Morrison 9 points
Carla Maran 6 points

Non-Handicap:
Julia Smith 17 points
Sophie Aitchison 9 points
Erin Hardy 8 points
Kirsten McCorquodale 7 points

Midlothian Girls do well in Lanark

It was the turn of the juniors this week to keep the MCLGA flag flying in the Scottish Girls' (Close) Amateur Championship being held at Lanark Golf Club, and what a great effort they made! Rachael Watton, returning from a good display in the European Girls' Championships at Kokkola Golf Club in Finland, led the way, winning the Stroke Play Championship. Lying 3rd equal after the morning round, 2 behind the leader and having shot a respectable 3 over par 77, Rachael continued to play well in the afternoon, adding a 2 over par 76 to her score and claiming the title of Scottish Girls' Stroke Play Champion for 2009 by 3 shots. Qualifying for the match play stage in pole position, she was joined by Gabrielle Macdonald and Gillian Simpson, while another MCLGA member, Kate McIntosh qualified for the Ansley Reid Consolation Salver.

A great contest for the title of Scottish Girls' Match Play Champion enused. Gillian lost out on the first round by 3&2 while Gabrielle was norrowly beaten on the final green in the second round. Rachael kept going to the semi-finals where her 3 birdies were not quite enough to see off the eventual overall winner. Having won a couple of very tight tussles on the way, one against European Girls' Championship team mate, Lesley Atkins (Minto), she finally succumbed on the 18th hole.

In the Consolation Salver, Kate McIntosh, having qualified in last place, turned up the heat and played some superb golf, despatching the leading plate qualifier in the first round and recording a 2-over par score in the second round. She progressed through to the final where she met and took the better of the second seed to win the Ansley Reid Consolation Salver by 1 hole.

Many congratulations to all of the girls who took part and especially to Rachael Watton in winning the Stroke Play and Kate McIntosh in winning the Consolation Salver.

The girls take off to Nairn Dunbar next week to play in the Scottish Ladies' Junior Open Stroke Play Championship. Good luck to the eight MCLGA members who are taking part: Rachael Archibald (Merchants), Gabrielle Macdonald (Craigielaw), Kate McIntosh, Hannah Scott (both Broomieknowe), Gillian Simpson, Kirsty Simpson (both Murrayfield), Jane Turner (Craigielaw) and Rachael Watton (Mortonhall).