VOM’s 2023 – Oxford Challenge – Dearsley Triumph !!!

The skies were dark the rain threatened but the 6 bold competitors were  not cowed in fact they strode (yes strode !) onto the first tee with hope in their hearts and there was definitely no thoughts of “Oh no here we go again” that was right out !

This year’s VOM’s Summer Challenge was a little depleted in numbers , Bob Dearsley , Chairman and franchise owner had withdrawn at the last moment due to fetlock issues. Ian Waterhouse, fashionista and keen flat decorator was unavailable as were the many other Waterhouses. The Dearsley contingent had various excuses including : being in another country and making TV programs and young James of Stewart Trolley fame was simply confused by the invitation.

Nevertheless Tony had driven over 2000 miles followed every mile by his 2.3 million loyal Travel Blog followers, Jamie had trained in from the Capitol and Allan , as ever, hopped on the number 23.

As the day’s golf unfolded Joe Dearsley started behaving like a proper golfer and hitting the bally thing dead straight, which in this company, is particularly unusual. Dougie Ogilvy was on fine form driving greens on par 4’s with ease. Obviously not the right greens but he seemed happy and the crowd were enthralled, as were the other golfers who were attempting to putt out.

Last years Champion, Clive Dearsley, started badly due to having to start the day well before 11.00 am but he rallied somewhat on the back 9.

Jamie Dearsley was impressed with the days golf, mainly because he didn’t fall out of the buggy , once, and Tony Dearsley only lost one club, which Dougie promises to return next year.

Overall it was a lovely day , dare we say delightful !!

Joe crowned his excellent front 9 with a scintillating 19 points on the back 9 claiming the magnificent Trophy which even now is hiding in plain sight in the hall of his London mansion. Clive struggled into 2nd place and the ever gallant Allan claimed 3rd place with some surprisingly good golf shots !

There was a brief prize giving presentation where glasses and tea cups were raised and the ensemble committed to the big one in Bournemouth 2024.

See you there !!!!