THE main series of winter competitions each year available to all members at the Gorsley-based Ross Golf Club are the five monthly mixed stableford events from October to February, reports KEITH RAY.

Twelve players emerge from each to compete for the club's opening honours board title being the annual Barnfield Trophy.

In 2023 this was won by James Sayce, 15, who has since enjoyed a remarkable journey, not just as a model 2024 Ross Juniors Captain and ambassador, but also recognised recently by the Gloucestershire Golfing Union as the county's U16 ‘Players’ Player of the Year'.

James has improved his handicap index during 2024 from 10 to 3.8 with the opportunities of an exciting and meaningful career in golf awaiting him.

To kick-start their journey to the 2025 Barnfield Trophy Final, 115 members took part in the opening mixed winter stableford in November, which was won decisively by Stephen Sharpe with 41 points in a round which included 14 pars and a birdie.

Since becoming a member in January, WH index 8.3 player Stephen has fully embraced the club's challenging and unique tree-lined course, which has brought considerable satisfaction in his play and other rewards when winning the annual Captain's Prize day with Tim Harrison.

Tim himself has also starred with various cup-winning titles notably with Joan Punnett and included them attending the annual presentation prize-winners evening where Tim collected the Trevor Lane Knock-out Trophy as well.

In the November stableford, another new member, 1.9 handicap Index player Tom Shotton, finished runner-up to Stephen with 39 points having put together a remarkable run on the demanding back nine, scoring five birdies to finish with a 31 gross medal 4 under gross par.

Other players to qualify were Stephen Gregory and Steve Gwilliam 38 pts, Andrew McKersie, Ian Bissell, Tim Harrison, Jon Morgan, Dave Hart 37 pts and Simon Mills, Paul Cresswell and Roger Bennett with 36 pts.