It’s truly heartening to reflect on the humble origins of our Chicken Trotter golfing tradition, initiated back in 1982 by our founding members as a lighthearted competition for the prize of a frozen chicken. Now, some 42 years later, it’s delightful to witness its enduring presence.
At the recent ‘Judgement Day’ event, aptly named for the gravity of the occasion, 26 of our finest Friday players convened. Amongst them, there were three age-related trophies up for grabs, alongside the coveted ‘Booker Prize’ for the best 5 scores.
After the scores were tallied, the top performers in each age category emerged. In the ‘least young’ section for the Tommy Hutton 80+ Shield, Richard Davies claimed 3rd place (with defending champion Geoff Aston close behind), followed by Peter Williams in 2nd, and Des Stone clinching the top spot. Meanwhile, in the ‘middle’ section for the 70+ trophy, David Lamb secured 3rd place (as defending champion), David Waters took 2nd, and Stan Hudson claimed victory. In the ‘kindergarten section’ for those under 70, Ian Duke secured 3rd place, defending champion David Rees took the runner-up spot, and Steve Cole emerged as the ‘Best Kid’, winning the Danny Carew Putter.
Remarkably, in the 7th year of the Booker Prize, this marks the 6th instance where ‘countback’ has been necessary. Steve C narrowly edged out Neil Dickinson for the top prize based on the best 3rd score.
In a touching gesture, Chicken stalwart Peter Williams honored one of our founders, John Mabe, by inaugurating a glass tankard engraved with ‘Top Chicken Trotter’ for the Booker winner to cherish. Peter’s generosity is truly appreciated.
It’s evident that the Chicken Trotters have overcome a period of stagnation experienced in the early years of the century. Today, our numbers are growing exponentially, reflected in the increased participation, scores, and even the number of birdie twos (and aces!) achieved. Although we may never match the record of 69 players in a single morning, the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship remains undiminished.
I extend my gratitude to Danny, John, and all the founders for initiating this tradition, to the subsequent ‘Chief Trotters’ for their stewardship, to my fellow Executive Committee members, and to all current (and future!) players who gather on Friday mornings for a round of golf, lively conversation, and the opportunity to set the world to rights—all for just six bob entry fee.
Report by Steve Cole
Photograph from left to right, Des Stone, Steve Cole, Stan Hudson and Peter Williams