The Ping Mixed Regional Semi Final 2025 saw Tenby Golf Club face Carmarthen in what quickly became a thrilling and unpredictable encounter dubbed “Chaos at Cardigan.” Following the drama of the previous round at Derllys, expectations were high, and the day did not disappoint.
Played in perfect overhead conditions on a fast-running Cardigan course with unpredictable bounces, the match was anything but straightforward.
Tenby’s opening pair, Sue Griffiths and Roger Schooling, appeared to be cruising to victory by the 16th hole. However, errant tee shots on 17 and 18 saw their match go to extra holes. Drawing on their experience, the Tenby duo kept their composure and clinched the win on the 19th green.
In the second match, Alison Daniel and Brian Jones struggled early on. Two cruel bounces resulted in lost balls, and they found themselves five down after seven holes. A spirited comeback saw them win the 16th to be two down with two to play, but a missed short putt on 17 sealed a 2&1 loss.
With the score level at 1-1, the deciding match fell to Linda Tordoff Evans and Ian Duke. Their game ebbed and flowed, and by the 17th tee it was all square. Both sides found the green in two, with Tenby slightly closer. A three-putt from the Tenby pair handed the hole to Carmarthen, putting Tenby behind.
The 18th hole, a par 5 delivered late drama. After evenly matched second shots, the Carmarthen lady, playing off a 33 handicap, produced a stunning chip to four feet. But Linda responded with nerves of steel, sinking a 30-foot putt for birdie to force extra holes.
Unfortunately for Tenby, lightning didn’t strike twice. Unlike the earlier extra-hole triumph by Griffiths and Schooling, this time it was Carmarthen who held their nerve, securing a 2-1 overall victory.
Tenby’s players were gracious in defeat, congratulating Carmarthen and wishing them well in the final.
Thanks to all the Tenby representatives for their efforts in this year’s competition.
Report by Brian Jones