Blackpool North Shore Seniors Section is a ‘thriving community’ despite the pitfalls of old age descending upon us!

When first officially started as a seniors section in 1997, there were 30 members led by Captain Frank Ford. In twenty years the section has trebled in numbers, 96 seniors having registered this year to play in senior competitions.

To join the Seniors Section, you have to be aged 60. It doesn’t matter whether you play off scratch or 28, all are welcome to join and play. We have a registration fee each year of £10 per person, which helps to subsidise friendly matches and the meals that are held throughout the year.

When the senior section first began twenty years ago, one competition was held every month. We now have the situation where senior competitions are held every Tuesday morning, either team matches or singles, with the tee reserved from 8am to 11am. Prizes are awarded each week, culminating in a Winter and Summer Order of Merit.

Each year in September a senior Captain is appointed at our AGM. Our Captain for 2018/19 is Keith Hollinrake. We also have a Secretary Trevor Day, with responsibility for the organisation of the senior section.

Throughout the year major competitions are held. The Tom Brennand Seniors Championship, The Senior Matchplay, Club Captain & President Day and The Pritchard Robinson Trophy Competition. We also have three occasions where all the seniors have the opportunity to sit down and dine; the Christmas Dinner in particular is well supported. There is also the opportunity to join in one of the golf trips run by the seniors each year: Formby Hall, Wales and Vilamoura in Portugal.

The success of our section is shown in the strength of our Senior Team in the Fylde League. We have finished in first place five times since 2010. We also have friendlies against the golf clubs of Bury, Stand (Manchester) and Hesketh (Southport).

Finally, one of our members recently moved back to Hazel Grove near Stockport. He left the following comments: “You cannot imagine how much I will miss the camaraderie, fun, laughter and insults, though never malicious, . . . . . . .its been a privilege and a pleasure to play with the seniors.” This clearly explains why you should join us – enjoy the game in good company.