Jamboree Results

Crieff Golf Club - Saturday 24 June - Monday 26 June

Northern Counties 5.5 - Aberdeenshire 3.5
Northern Counties 3.5 - Perth & Kinross 5.5
Northern Counties 5 - Angus 4

Overall Match Points -
Aberdeenshire - 1
Angus - 1
Northern Counties - 4
Perth & Kinross - 6

Northern Division Winners 2006 - Perth & Kinross

County Update 29 June

Hello from Dornoch, I am still in the twilight zone and not yet reached the darkened room. I managed a game myself yesterday and having been inspired over last weekend, managed a win. Your County Team was awesome this weekend. Their golfing skills were the talk of a few buggies (mostly ours of course). That really is a joke because the golf produced by all of the teams was a joy to watch and left us all speechless. In fact, the thesaurus probably does not have words to describe it; eg: on Monday, Kelsey lost her match 4&2, Kerri was having to eagle and birdie each hole to stay alive, and was 4 under when it finished. Ashton was 1 over par at the 13th when she lost to Ann Ramsay 7&5. Ann was 6 under par!!! Last year, Ann Ramsay did the same thing to Christine McAndrew, another wifie of this parish, and also one who had played wonderful golf. Other matches from your team were also in the calibre of brilliant, and if I were to detail it all, I would be hours doing so. I can say they were all playing scratch golf or under and if they were to enter the 'Q' school who knows????

I would like to thank all those who sent messages of goodwill to the team. They really do appreciate it and especially I wish to thank the following for their presence each day - Jock of Auchterarder, Sheila and Mary Price for breaking their journey home from Duff House, Moira Grant of Garmouth and Alan Kessack and Marion Thomson of Elgin who caddied and said the golf was better at Crieff than Gleneagles!! To Aileen, Liz and Fiona who are members at Nairn and travelled from Glenrothes to caddy - also thank you.

Perth & Kinross County of course hosted this year and they certainly put a lot of work into the event, and we thank them for that. We were made most welcome by the Officials of the County. Crieff Golf Club were gracious hosts and their staff were courteous and professional at all times in assisting us, thank you to them all.

The penultimate thanks go to Isobel, Mary and Susan for their hard work, support and dedication to the team and of course to myself.

Finally, to Kerri, Kelsey, Laura, Mary, Donna, Eileen, Jenny and Ashton, thank you all for giving so generously of your time to play in the Northern Counties Team

Moving on, I have to advise that Ashton is going to America for 4 years to Belmont Abbey in Charlotte, North Carolina and will be majoring in computer studies.

Muir of Ord 20 July
Entries for the above County Open close on 4 July and Wendy Spencer is anxiously awaiting the post.

North of Scotland at Montrose on 3 July
A number of our members are travelling to Montrose next week to take part in the above and we wish them all good golf.

British Mid Amateur at Nairn
This is also being played next week and good luck to our members who are playing.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Golf Champion of Nairn

Laura Walker is Miss Golf Champion of Nairn 2006. Earlier winning at Nairn West, she has now won at Nairn Dunbar.
Par 75 SSS 75
1st rd - 75, css 74
2nd rd - 74, css 75
3rs rd - 76, css 75
The last double champion was Louise Clark. Well done Laura.

Mairi Orr
Captain

County players prepare for Jamboree

This week the County team goes to Crieff for the Inter-County Championships. Their preparations have been outstanding with Jenny Milne retaining the Club Championship at Elgin, Kerri Harper being runner-up in the University Championships at Macclesfield and also winning a prize at the Munross Trophy and Ashton Ingram setting a new course record. Well done to Kelsey who broke another course record at Kingussie.

Card 4 5 4 5 4 4 3 3 5 37 3 4 4 5 5 3 4 4 4 36
Kelsey 3 4 4 5 5 3 4 3 4 35 2 4 3 5 4 3 3 3 3 30
par 73 sss 70 css 71

We have been fortunate to have our Match Balls sponsored by Cairngorm Windows, and we thank them for that. Thanks also go to Gleaner Oils Elgin, Munro Fruit of Tain, Johnstons of Elgin and a Cool Drink Supplier who wishes to remain anonymous.

I would also like to thank those clubs who have so generously sent us donations over and above the subscriptions.

If anybody is in the vicinity of Crieff this weekend, we would love to see you. Bring your golf shoes and a trolley!!

Mairi Orr
Captain

Ashton sets new course record

County member Ashton Ingram set a new course record at Fort William in the Captains' Prize and Gleneagles Medal. She equalled the record of 70 last July at a County meeting.

Par - 71 SSS - 70

Card 4 4 3 5 5 3 4 4 5 37 5 4 3 3 4 3 3 4 4 34

Ashton 4 4 3 4 4 2 6 5 5 37 4 4 3 2 4 3 3 4 4 31

Mairi Orr
Captain

County update

It has been a busy period for the County, what with team practice and the County foursomes at Garmouth & Kingston. Garmouth was looking terrific and that is probably because Rebecca Grant is working there over the summer months. Some of the ladies would like her to lower the cutting blades in the rough!! Should you be looking for a great course to take your summer visitors, so pop along to Garmouth.
Prize winners were:-
1st Scratch - G Dowling & A Gowie (I)
1st Handicap and winners of the County Foursomes trophy - L Ballantyne & M Walker (G&K)
2nd Handicap - P Clarke & J Anderson (G&K)
3rd Handicap - S Cobban & F James (F)
The two Garmouth couples will go forward to represent Northern Counties at The Commonwealth Spoons to be played this year at Loundon Golf Club on 19 September, and we wish the well.

The Girls Inter-Divisional at Ballumbie was a huge success for the North Division as they won the trophy. The team was Eilidh Mackay, Sammy Vass, Lauren McCallum, Annabel Niven, Kirsty Moss and Ashley Smith. Well done to Lorna Lloyd Baker for being the team captain - splendid job.

I have just heard that Ashton Ingram has just broken the course record at Fort William. Details to follow.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Kelsey does it again

Kelsey has smashed another course record, this time at her home club Nairn Dunbar on 31 May in the Mouaidh Trophy. Laura Walker was the record holder previously.

Kelsey's score was as follows -
card 4 4 3 5 5 5 4 3 5 38 4 3 4 5 4 3 5 4 5 37 75
kelsey 4 4 2 5 4 4 4 3 4 34 4 3 3 4 4 3 4 4 4 33 67

par 75 sss 75 css 75

Very well done to Kelsey and good luck in The St Rule

Mairi Orr
Captain

County Foursomes/Commonwealth Spoons Draw

Friday 9 June 2006 at Garmouth & Kingston Golf Club

Abbreviations: B - Boat of Garten; F - Forres; FR - Fortrose & Rosemarkie; G - Grantown on Spey; GK - Garmouth & Kingston; HO - Hopeman; I - Inverness; M - Moray; MO - Muir of Ord; S - Strathpeffer; T - Tain

10.00 - L Ballantine (GK) & M Walker (GK); J Tulloch (M) & G More (HO)
10.10 - MJ Gauldie (GK) & D Cruickshank (GK); S Vickerman (G) & M Allen (G)
10.20 - F Fraser (FR) & M Webster (FR); W Hendry (MO) & J Cameron (S)
10.30 - H Macleod (I) & J Grant (I); E Hutton & M Maclean (MO)
10.40 - M Ross (FR) & A Macintosh (FR); P Morrison (MO) & Partner
10.50 - J Glen (S) & H Cumming (FR); B Bremner (FR) & A Drummond (FR)
11.00 - J Cairns (B) & P Roxburgh (B); L Munro (M) & V Mullin (M)
11.30 - S Cobban (F) & F James (F); J Scotland (GK) & M Grant (GK)
13.00 - M James (F) & D Marshall (F); M Hayden (T) & M Orr (T)
13.10 - M Fowler (GK) & B Grant (GK); B Hughes & M Jones
13.20 - G Dowling (I) & A Gowie (I); E Morrison (FR) & S Dunn (FR)

Orkney Results

County Open at Kirkwall Golf Club on 27 May 2006

Silver Scratch - Shona Croy (Kirkwall) 81
1st Handicap - Sheila Ramsay (Inverness) 88 (16) 72
2nd Handicap - Liz Coghill (Royal Dornoch) 85 (12) 73
3rd Handicap - Sheila Hourston (Kirkwall) 92 (19) 73

Bronze
1st Handicap - Morag McCallum (Kirkwall) 99 (21) 78
2nd Handicap - Maggie McGregor (Kirkwall) 102 (22) 80
3rd Handicap - Hazel Gray (Kirkwall) 110 (30) 80
4th Handicap - Elizabeth Drever (Kirkwall) 108 (27) 81

Mairi Orr
Captain

Orkney Trip

The "goiles" are back on this mainland from a hugely successful trip to Orkney where we were met with the most wonderful hospitality and friendship. Most people who travelled spent a few days sightseeing and partaking of the terrific food to be had on the island. The travel tales will have to be glossed over, but I do believe some people were not very good on the high seas, indeed the RDGC Ladies had a plan to shout "we are sinking" and the purser rushed out to ask what they were thinking about!! The advance party, led by Pam Gordon, included Isobel McIntosh and Sheila Ramsay and thanks to them all, both Kirkwall and Stromness (pronounced Strumniss) have been rated. Friday evening was a soiree in Kirkwall Golf Club. The ladies had spent weeks deciding on a wonderful menu for us all. The entertainment was eclectic, and the main turn was Arthur Pottinger and his brother Stuart. The Inverness ladies sang a song, Pam Moscati took her keyboard, but unfortunately it was described, by the suddenly not so honorable secretary, as not being in playing mode! We were also introduced to Ellie May, a new member at Grainbank and she very obviously had a bit of adjusting to do, in all sorts of ways. Saturday dawned with what is known locally as a gentle Orkney breeze (gale force), the skies turned blue, as did the hands and faces of many of the competitors, and the rain went away; must have been the song what did it! There was not a pair of braces in sight and most of the scores reflected this. Congratulations to all the prizewinners, especially those who won their county voucher. We had 10 clubs represented and it was encouraging to see many new friendships being formed. I had the honour to play with Doreen Garson, the Captain of Stromness and Marianne Tait, Captain of Orkney. It would seem, even in Orkney, nicknames are fashionable, although Marianne is called The Dictator. I could not quite think why she had her other name on her gloves "ogre". That was until we got the the 18th, but I have recently come out the darkened room so don't want to say anymore, apart from the flagpole is in a very interesting spot!! Thank you for the golf ball, I will remember the 18th forever. It was almost a course record!
To Orkney Golf Club and all their staff and helpers who worked so hard to prepare for our visit, thank you so much, Simon Henderson the greenkeeper is a star.
We are still to confirm, but the Stromness Ladies would welcome a County Open there is May of 2008.
I would urge you to take your golf clubs to Orkney and enjoy a wee break. For more reporting of the event, see www.theorcadian or www.orkneytoday.co.uk (comes out on Thursday) and thank you to Robert Leslie and his photographer for their interest in Northern Counties.
A reminder about Colin Farquharson's new website www.scottishgolfview.com, should be worth a look.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Orkney Open Draw

County Open at Kirkwall Golf Club on Saturday 27 May

D - Durness; E - Elgin; G - Grantown-on-Spey; I - Inverness; K - Kirkwall; M - Muir of Ord; RD - Royal Dornoch; S - Stromness; T - Tain

9.0 - L Campbell (K), M Irvine (K), C Matheson (G);
9.10 - H Gray (K), M Douglas (RD), E Drever (K);
9.20 - F Allan (I), J O'Connor (K), S Salter (K);
9.30 - J Sharpe (S), L Ross (K), E Maclaren (I);
9.40 - L Reeve (K), A Barnett (RD), M Macgregor (K);
9.50 - M MacCallum (K), W Spencer (MO), M Daiziel (K);
10.10 - S Shearer (K), L Seator (S), S MacKinnon (D);
10.20 - P Gordon (I), S Walls (K), L Milne (K);
10.30 - I McIntosh (I), H Smith (K), S McDonnal (I);
10.40 - P Moscati (RD), S Ramsay (I), S Hourston (K);
10.50 - E Sloan (K), M Hayden (T), D McBride (RD);
11.00 - M Tair (K), M Orr (T), D Garson (S);
11.20 - G Gilbert (K), E Coghill (RD), S MacVicar (G);
11.30 - D Hutchison (K), A Gilmour (K), S Mackenzie (E);
11.40 - E Spence (K), M Barr (G), L Lloyd-Baker (G);
11.50 - K Sutherland (S), E Manson (T), J Cumming (I);
12.00 - M Leonard (K), A Dunnett (T), A Poke (S);
12.10 - E McLellan (S), S Croy (K), J Milne (E)

Congratulations

Congratulations to Kelsey MacDonald who has been selected to play in the European Girls Team Championships in Esbjerg Golf Club, Denmark on July 11-15. Kelsey has also been selected as a reserve for the European Junior Masters in Austria on July 27-29.
Congratulations to Kerry Harper who has been selected as a reserve for the European Junior Womens Team Championships in the Netherlands on July 11-15.
Eilidh Mackay and Sammy Vass are in the North Division team for the Girls Inter-Divisional at Ballumbie Castle in June.
Thank you all for your support of the squad, they really do appreciate it.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Team Members

We are pleased to announce our team for the Inter-County Championships at Crieff Golf Club on 24 - 26 June 2006

Kerri Harper (Inverness)
Ashton Ingram (Fort William)
Kelsey MacDonald (Nairn Dunbar)
Eileen Manson (Thurso)
Jenny Milne (Elgin)
Donna Sinclair (Tain)
Mary Smith (Tain)
Laura Walker (Nairn Dunbar)

Reserves
Marion Howieson (Inverness)
Eilidh Mackay (Nairn Dunbar)
Sammy Vass (Tain)

Mairi Orr
Captain

County Championships at Forres GC

The ambience and friendliness provided by the ladies of Forres Golf Club was much appreciated by all who participated - to Louise Hampton, the Lady Captain and her dream team of Northern Counties Delegates, Val Wright and Sheila Cobbam, well done, and to Dorothy Marshall, the ever efficient secretary, a big thank you.
The other staff at Forres are also to be praised for their professionalism, the course was well presented and proved to be challenging for the majority of players.
Rodney the rooster kept us entertained and had the odd crow or two when people were putting!
The entry was down this year due to various stalwart members having other commitments, eg: The doyenne was in Dubai checking out the winter training venue for the County Team (JOKE)! Sadly, other members were injured or had family arrangements. May I take this opportunity to welcome the two new members from Gairloch. Thank you to all who entered and helped make the championship the premier event in our calendar.
The County Putter was won by June Glenn from Strathpeffer and we wish her happy days with it.
It was especially pleasing to see so many of the junior girls playing and what a lively bunch they are. This years' fashion statement is definitely braces, and what fun we had with them. Indeed, County Team players might have to get red ones!
Speaking of dress, congratulations to Laura for her well turned out appearance in County Uniform on Sunday and indeed to you all who wore the red.
The mood of the weekend was set by Kelsey who took 2 hours 30 minutes to go round the course and SMASHED the course record set in 1997 by Pat Maclennan of Forres.

Card 4 4 4 4 3 5 3 4 5 36 4 4 5 4 4 4 4 3 4 36 72
Kelsey 3 5 3 4 3 3 2 4 3 30 4 4 4 4 5 3 3 3 4 34 64
SSS - 71 CSS - 71

The matchplay started in the afternoon with 8 qualifiers.
Kelsey Macdonald bt Ashton Ingram
Ann Ryan bt Laura Walker
Jenny Milne bt Donna Sinclair
Kerri Harper bt Christine McAndrew

Sunday dawned - we provided lollipops on the first as the semi-finalists were mostly juniors or just come of age. The handicap semi included Liz Coghill and the combined age of the other semi finalists plus their caddies almost equaled hers!! However, not daunted, and in true sporting fashion, Liz posed for photographs and declared that instead of the County scheme of adopting a junior, it was now, Foster a Granny!
Kelsey beat Ann in a game of brilliant golf from both players, Anne will have to try again next year. The other semi-final was hotly contested between Kerry and Jenny, going to the 21st when Jenny pitched to within a foot of the pin while Kerry was through the green.
In the handicap semi, Sammy Vass caddied for her sister Julie, with Julie beating Liz Coghill. Chloe Macleod and Aimee Taylor, both making their debut at the Championships, also had a good match ,with Chloe winning.
The Referee for the Handicap Match was the Lady Captain of Forres and she came prepared with her length of string etc. Julie and Chloe both enjoyed their game with Chloe winning at the 17th. Well done to both of them.
The final was refereed by our very own top Scottish Referee, Liz Munro. Kelsey and Jenny squared up and like all of the girls, very much enjoyed the moment. The scores for your information below:-

Kelsey 4 4 5 5 4 6 3 3 4 4 c 3 4 4 4 4
Jenny 5 5 5 4 4 4 3 c c 3 3 4 5 5 4 5

Well done to all the finalists and thank you to all the spectators who came to watch such superb golf.
The venue for next year's Championship will hopefully be announced shortly. I apologise for the delay, but we have had what I shall describe as technical difficulties.
The County Team shall be announced at the earliest opportunity and hopefully you will come to Crieff to support us in our defence of the Inter-County Championship. Caddies are urgently required. Contact Susan. You don't need to be young or wear braces!!

Mairi Orr
Captain

N.C.L.G.A. Championship Draw - Forres GC 6th & 7th May

8.0 - K Macdonald (ND) & K Harper (I)
8.06 - J Milne (E) & L Walker (ND)
8.12 - C McAndrew (ND) & S Ingram (FW)
8.18 - M Smith (T) & M Howieson (I)
8.24 - W Ross (E) & A Ryan (T)
8.30 - D Sinclair (T) & A Gowie (I)
8.36 - M Vass (T) & G Dowling (I)
8.42 - M Barr (G) & P Gordon (I)
8.48 - L Lloyd-Baker (Gr) & E Mackay (ND)
8.54 - S Vass (T) & L Fraser (F&R)
9.0 - K McBeath (F) & H Stuart (MO)
9.06 - S Mackenzie (E) & S MacVicar (G)
9.12 - L Coghill (RD) & A Strauss (RD)
9.18 - M Bagott (RD) & J Maison (DHR)
9.24 - D Marshall (F) & P Morrison (MO)
9.30 - D McBride (RD) & S MacDonell (I)
9.36 - P Moscati (RD) & M Rennie (RD)
9.42 - I Wilson (F) & J Glen (S)
9.48 - M Hayden (T) & E Morrison (F&R)
9.54 - W Spencer (MO) & M Brennan (RD)
10.0 - A Burnett (RD) & R Cruickshanks (I)
10.06 - F Allan (I) & H Cumming (F&R)
10.12 - C MAcleod (ND) & M Maclean (MO)
10.18 - A Drummond (F&R) & S Dunn (F&R)
10.24 - J Paterson (FA) & M James (F)
10.30 - D Rae (FW) & S McDonald (RD)
10.36 - A Taylor (F) & C Proctor (F)
10.42 W Henry (MO) & J Cameron (S)
10.48 - J Vass (T) & Partner

Abbreviations -
DHR - Duff House Royal; E - Elgin; F - Forres; FA - Fort Augustus; FW - Fort William; F&R - Fortrose & Rosemarkie; G - Gairloch; Gr - Grantown; I - Inverness; MO - Muir of Ord; ND - Nairn Dunbar; RD - Royal Dornoch; S - Strathpeffer; T - Tain

Highland Vets Fixture List 2006

April 26 - Grantown-on-Spey GC
May 19 - Championship qualifying at Nairn Dunbar GC
May 22 - Semi & Final of Championship at Nairn Dunbar GC
August 14 - Home Match v Northern Division at Elgin GC
September 5 - Greensomes at Tain GC
September 20 - Open and Prizegiving at Newtonmore GC

Happy Birthday

Many Congratulations to Kerri on her 21st birthday from everybody in Northern Counties.

Mairi Orr
Captain

County Championships at Forres 6/7 May 2006

Entries will close for the above competition on 21st April. Please get your entries in now to Val Wright on 01309 673650.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Quiz Evening

Thankyou very much to all who supported the Quiz last week held at Fairways. We raised £280 for the Junior Girls and I was absolutely delighted.

Regards
Pam Gordon

Devices

After discussion, The NCLGA Management Committee and The North Divisional Committee for Scottish County Golf have decided the following:-

Notwithstanding any local rule that a golf club may have invoked, the use of distance measuring devices is PROHIBITED in any County event during 2006.

The use of such a device is in breach of rule 14.3, the penalty for which is disqualification.

Mairi C Orr
Captain

COUNTY GIRLS QUIZ

A quiz has again been organised by Pam Gordon this year for WEDNESDAY 22 MARCH at Fairways, Inverness, tee-off at 2 PM.
The cost of each team will be £20 which includes tea and biscuits.

Team members do not necessary have to be golfers and the prizes will of course be outstanding!!

Entry forms will be available at the AGM on Sunday 25th February at Nairn Dunbar, or alternatively call her on 01667 453392

All proceeds go towards the development of the girls golf and every penny is precious.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Junior Girls Fixture List 2006

23rd April - Senior/Girls at Craggan Golf Club
14th May - McDermott Trophy at Invergordon
10th/11th June - Girls Inter-Division at Ballumble Castle
9th July - Medal at Boat of Garten
5th August - Junior Championships at Moray (New)
20th August - North of Scotland Championships at Kirriemuir

For further information, Lorna Lloyd Baker can be contacted on 01808 521361 or lorna.lloyd-baker@virgin.net

Kind regards
Mairi Orr
Captain

Fixture List 2006

May 6th & 7th - County Championships at Forres; May 21st Captain v County Team at Spey Valley; May 27th County Open at Kirkwall; May 28th County Open at Thurso

June 6th Delegates Day at Hopeman; June 9th County Foursomes at Garmouth; June 23rd - 26th Jamboree at Crieff

July 3rd, 4th & 5th North of Scotland Championships at Royal Montrose; July 20th County Open at Muir of Ord

August 14th County Veterans at Golspie; August 25th County Open at Cullen

September 6th County Greensomes at Bonar Bridge; September 10th Scratch League Final at Moray; September 15th - 18th County Finals at The Hirsel

October 1st County Open and AGM at Tain

Mairi Orr
Captain

New Junior Secretary

I am pleased to announce that Lorna Lloyd Baker from Grantown-on-Spey Golf Club has graciously agreed to take on the role of Junior Secretary for the County. Lorna is full of bounce and enthusiasm, and I am sure she will be a great asset to the girls.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Christmas Greetings

The Captain of Northern Counties would like to wish everybody a Merry Christmas and a Happy & Healthy 2006.

Mairi Orr

New Vice-Captain

Congratulations to Eileen Manson (Doyenne of Caithness) who has accepted the post of Vice-Captain of Northern Counties.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Lifetime Membership

Northern Counties entend their congratulations to "Press Officer" Robin Wilson who has been awarded a lifetime membership of Brora Golf Club for his services to the club.

Mairi Orr
Captain

BIG Thank you

Pam Gordon would like to THANK Northern Counties most sincerely for the Honorary Membership bestowed upon her which was a great surprise when she was at Radyr with the Scottish Senior Team. All good wishes sent from members was most appreciated and lifted the girls, who played very well, but unfortunately did not lift the trophy.

Mairi C Orr
Captain

Training Squads

Congratulations to the following Northern Counties Girls on their selection for Scottish Winter Training Squads:-
National under 18 - Kelsey MacDonald (Nairn Dunbar)
National Training Squad - Kerri Harper (Inverness), Ashton Ingram (Fort William), Laura Walker (Nairn Dunbar)
Under 18 Development Squad 1 - Eilidh Mackay (Nairn Dunbar)
Under 18 Development Squad 2 - Sammy Vass (Tain)

Regards
Mairi C Orr
Captain

Results from Open at Moray on 2/10/05

Silver Scratch - Ashton Ingram (Fort William) - 74

1st Handicap - Aline Drummond (Fortrose & Rosemarkie) (20) 73
2nd handicap - Merle Allan (Grantown on Spey) (19) 73
3rd Handicap - Edna Rattray (Moray) (19) 73

Bronze

1st Handicap - Lauren Duncan (Aboyne) (30) 69
2nd Handicap - Maria Duncan (Aboyne) (21) 70
3rd Handicap - Helen Macleod (Inverness) (25) 70
4th Handicap - Ellen Spence (Rothes) (25) 71

CSS - 73 Par - 72 SS - 70

Mairi C Orr
Captain

Pictures from Ranfurly Castle

Honorary Memberships

It gives me great pleasure to announce that the following Memberships of our Association were awarded at our A.G.M. yesterday.

Pam Gordon for outstanding services to Northern Counties as a Past Captain, Junior Organiser and Scratch League Assessor. Also for outstanding service to Scottish Golf as Captain of the following teams:-
1996, Junior Home Internationals at Formby Links; 1997, Junior Home Internationals at Forfar; 1998, Junior European Team in Oslo; 1999, Scottish Home Internationals at Royal Dornoch; 2000, Scottish Home Internationals at Royal St. Davids; 2001, Scottish European Team in Spain; 2004, Scottish Senior Home Internationals at Kilkeel and finally 2005, Scottish Senior Home Internationals at Radyr.

Isobel McIntosh for outstanding service to Northern Counties as a Past Captain and as President, Handicap Advisor, Scottish Selector and Scratch Score Assessor. Also for outstanding service to Scottish Golf as Captain of the following teams:-
(All Scottish Home Internationals) 1991, Aberdovey; 1992, Hamilton; 1993, The Hermitage.

Best regards
Mairi C. Orr

Draw for Moray New Course 2/10/05

10 am - A. Park (Moray) & M. James (Moray)
10.06 - J. Grant (Moray) & A. Gourlay (Moray)
10.12 - N. Forbes (Moray) & S. Zanre (Moray)
10.18 -
10.24 -
10.30 - E. Rattray (Moray) & B. Grant (Garmouth)
10.36 - M. Grant (Moray) & G. More (Hopeman)
10.42 - J. Anderson (Garmouth) & M. Walker (Rothes)
10.48 - E. Manson (Thurso) & I. Wilson (Forres)
10.54 - J. Elder (Nairn Dunbar) & M. McLauchlan (Grantown)
11.00 - P. Brown (Nairn Dunbar) & C. Matheson (Grantown)
11.06 - F. Fraser (Fortrose) & M. Allan (Grantown)
11.12 - A. Drummond (Fortrose) & E. Smith (Moray)
11.18 - M. Dick (Grantown) & M. Douglas (Royal Dornoch)
11.24 - M. Orr (Tain) & P. Morrison (Muir of Ord)
11.30- M. Philip (Moray) & J. Paterson (Fort Augustus)
11.36 - S. McLennan (Nairn Dunbar) & M. Smith (Moray)
11.42 - A. Ingram (Fort William) & M. Smith (Tain)
11.48 - S. Vass (Tain) & I. Mackintosh (Inverness)
11.54 - H. McLeod (Inverness) & M. Hayden (Tain)
12.00 - S. Ramsay (Inverness) & P. Moscati (Royal Dornoch)
12.06 - A. Ryan (Tain) & G. Dowling (Inverness)
12.12 - J. Russell (Tain) & T. Cumming (Inverness)
12.18 - M. Barclay (Buckpool) & R. Marden (Buckpool)
12.24 - J. Nichol (Inverness) & M. Bagott (Royal Dornoch)
12.30 - L. Coghill (Royal Dornoch) & J. Milne (Elgin)
12.36 - S. Mackenzie (Elgin) & S. McDonell (Inverness)
12.42 - M. Duncan (Aboyne) & A. Burnett (Royal Dornoch)
12.48 - L.Duncan (Aboyne) & S. MacDonald (Royal Dornoch)
12.54 - L. Walker (Nairn Dunbar) & L. Munro (Moray)

OVERALL RESULTS

Friday 16 September

• FOURSOMES
• Lanarkshire 1.5 Northern Counties 1.5
• Midlothian 3 Borders 0
• SINGLES
• Lanarkshire 3 Northern Counties 3
• Midlothian 3 Borders 3
• POINTS
• Midlothian 2
• Northern Counties 1
• Lanarkshire 1
• Borders 0

Saturday 17 September

• FOURSOMES
• Borders 3 Lanarkshire 0
• Northern Counties 0 Midlothian 3
• SINGLES
• Borders 4.5 Lanarkshire 1.5
• Northern Counties 1.5 Midlothian 4.5
• POINTS
• Midlothian 4
• Borders 2
• Lanarkshire 1
• Northern Counties 1

Sunday 18 September

• FOURSOMES
• Northern Counties 3 Borders 0
• Midlothian 3 Lanarkshire 0
• SINGLES
• NorthernCounties 4.5 Borders 1.5
• Midlothian 4 Lanarkshire 2
• POINTS
• Midlothian 6
• Northern Counties 3
• Borders 2
• Lanarkshire 1

County Finals

Your team is back from their weekend of wonderful golf and are a credit to Northern Counties for their outstanding performance.
To read the results I must tell you, does not reflect the golfing abilities of the team in a positive way. The camaraderie between the four competing counties was wonderful and most people left in a happy frame. Ranfurly Castle ladies were tremendously supportive and rushed about caddying and giving electric trolleys, and a huge thank you goes to them, as we were short of our own supporters. In fact, there were five of us, including me, and it was lonely out there!! Comments were made as to how nice it was to see a new young team from the North and it will strengthen with new girls coming to the fore, and once again we will get the big one! It would be wrong of me to single out any one player because they each gave their best on and off the course, and many a laugh was had between us. Isobel, as your President, was put on a bag and caddied 6 times. A tremendous achievement up all those hills, and a hugh thank you goes to her for that and for all her words of encouragement etc. We brought the runner-up trophy back to the North and "the Comeback Kids" are already preparing for next year. To all those who sent good wishes, thank you very much as the team appreciated it, especially when they were all displayed on the lunch table for all to see!! See you all at Moray on 2nd October - Late entries to Iris Wilson -01309 675594

Full match details to follow.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Ranfurly Castle

Good morning to everyone,
Sadly, I have to advise that Linda Smith is unable to travel with us to Ranfurly Castle due to family commitments and we wish her well.

However, a little surprise for you all - our president Mrs Isobel McIntosh has graciously agreed to be named as a player and as you know that will surely bring a complete strength and depth to our very successful team.

Mairi
Captain

Ness Open Winner

Team Announcement

We are pleased to announce our team for The County Finals at Ranfurly Castle.

Kerri Harper (Inverness), Ashton Ingram (Fort William), Kelsey MacDonald (Nairn Dunbar), Eileen Manson (Thurso), Jenny Milne (Elgin), Linda Smith (Buckpool), Mary Smith (Tain) and Laura Walker (Nairn Dunbar)

Mairi Orr
Captain

Caddies required

As you know Northern Counties will be defending their title at Ranfurly Castle in September and they will be requiring caddies on Friday 16th, Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th. Unfortunately the pay is rubbish, but the benefits are enormous!! If you can be of assistance, please e-mail Susan Mackenzie on macken86@aol.com or telephone 01343 544304

Mairi Orr
Captain

North v North East Match

Results of match between Northern Counties Girls and North East Girls at Newmachar.

(North girls first)
Niketa Cruickshank lost to Laura Murray 8 & 7
Aimee Taylor lost to Michele Thomson 8 & 6
Jennifer Stewart lost to Mhairi Johnstone 9 & 7
Kelsey Macdonald beat Lauren MacCallum 8 & 6
Sammy Vass beat Amanda Bowie 3 & 2
Nadia Green beat Kirsty Moss 3 & 2
Donna Mackinnon lost to Lauren Whyte 2 & 1
Chloe Macloed lost to Samantha Leslie 4 & 3

Final result - North 3 North East 5.
A great day was had by all and we even got great weather!

Cara Gruber
Junior Secretary

Northern County Junior Championships

The results of the Northern County Junior Championships held at Fortrose & Rosemarkie were -

1st Scratch - Kelsey MacDonald (Nairn Dunbar) 72
2nd Scratch - Eilidh Mackay (Nairn Dunbar) 79
1st Handicap - Donna Mackinnon (Durness) 65
2nd Handicap - Julie Vass (Tain) 68

Cara Gruber
Junior Secretary

British Open Amateur Stroke Play Championships

Northern County Girls proved their determination by entering the above competition last week. They were Cara Gruber, Kerri Harper, Ashton Ingram, Christine MacAndrew, Kelsey MacDonald and Laura Walker. Unfortunately Ashton, Christine and Laura did not make the "cut". Laura missed it by two but they were undaunted and represented themselves and the County admirably. Sunday was two further rounds of stroke play and Kerri went from strength to strength finishing on +13, Cara +19 and Kelsey +31 over the four rounds. Well done to them all and maybe it was just a wee practice for next year at Nairn when the British Mid Amateur will be played there in July. There again, maybe it was getting into the zone for Ranfurly Castle next month!

Mairi Orr
Captain

Results from Fortrose

Silver section -
Scratch - 1st - M. Ritchie (MO) 83; 2nd - W. Ross (E) 84.
Handicap - 1st - J. Thornton (F&R) (17) 68; 2nd - R. Ross (T) (19) 70; 3rd - M. Hayden (T) (18) 71

Bronze section -
1st - B. Bremner (F&R) (23) 62; S. Macdonald (D) (24) 69 bih; A. Drummond (F&R) (21) 69; 4th - K. A. Brown (F&R) (30) 70; 5th - A. Ross (T) (22) 72

Dorothy Marshall from Forres won the Putter in the raffle and Barbara Bremner from Fortrose won the Cathy Ross Salver for the best nett score overall.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Draw for Vets Open Thursday 11th August at Fortrose

9.08 - J. Nalder (N) & M. Ross (F&R); 9.16 - S. Duncan (RD) & B. Bremner(F&R); 9.24 - A. Burnett (RD) & H. Cumming (F&R); 9.32 - M. Lane (Ta) & S. Mackenzie (E); 9.40 - W. Ross (E) & M. Gordon (Ta); 9.48 - L. Barras (MO) & A. Smitten (F&R); 9.56 - J. Stewart (T) & KA Brown (F&R); 10.04 - W. Spencer (MO) & R. Ross (T); 10.12 - J. Fraser (MO) & J. Russell (T); 10.20 - E. Hutton (MO) & T. Weekes (RD); 10.28 - M. McLean (MO) & N. Scott (I); 10.36 - H. MacLeod (I) & S. Dunn (F&R); 10.44 - P. Moscati (RD) & E. Morrison (F&R); 10.52 - P. Smith (I) & A. Armstrong (S); 11.00 - N. Bowie (I) & A. Strauss (RD); 11.08 - E. Rattray (M) & J. Thornton (F&R); 11.16 - E. Smith (M) & E. Robb (I); 11.24 - W. Hendry (MO) & P. Webster (BB); 11.32 - A. Ross (T) & J. Noble (MO); 11.40 - M. Anderson (T) & P. Magee (MO); 11.48 - M. Orr (T) & E. Wallace (MO); 11.56 - M. Hayden (T) & D. Mackay (MO); 12.04 - D. Marshall (F) & M. Baggott (RD); 12.12 - J. Paterson (FA) & A. Mackintosh (F&R); 12.20 - J. Gunn (MO) & M. Douglas (RD); 12.28 - S. Bruce (B) & M. Blair (RD); 12.36 - M. Jones (BoG) & B. Little (B); 12.44 - B. Hughes (BoG) & R. Bruce (MO); 12.52 - S. Ramsay (I) & M. Ritchie (MO); 13.00 - I. Mackintosh (I) & L. Munro (M); 13.08 - S. Macdonald (RD) & J. Gilchrist (F&R); 13.16 - I. Wilson (F) & A. Macdonald (Ta); 13.24 - C. Vass (Ta) & V. Moen (GoS); 13.32 - S. Vickerman (GoS) & A. Drummond (F&R)

Congratulations

Well done to Kelsey MacDonald who played really well in the British Girls Championship this week.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Good luck message

Good luck to Cara in the Welsh Championship at Machynis Peninsula which starts tomorrow, 11th August. This is a professional event and Cara is the SLGA nominated player.

Mairi Orr
Captain

British Open Amateur Stroke Play Championships

Next week Nairn Golf Club is to host the above tournament and we are indeed fortunate to have another prestigious event this year on "our patch". Northern Counties have 6 players entered - Cara Gruber, Kerri Harper, Ashton Ingram, Kelsey MacDonald, Christine McAndrew and Laura Walker and every good wish must go to them. Please do turn out to spectate and support. I am sure our girls will really appreciate it.
The dates are 17th - 19th August.

BP Scottish Girls (Close) Amateur Championships

Next week Tain Golf Club has the honour of hosting the above competition. There is a field of 50 girls coming from all over Scotland and I am pleased to say that a number of our County Girls are playing. Kelsey Macdonald will tee off first on Tuesday morning at 8.00 am. The girls will play 2 rounds that day and then go onto matchplay on Wednesday, Thursday and the final on Friday morning. The prize giving will be at 12.30 approx. on Friday, so do come along to Tain and support the Northern County Girls. They would appreciate it and I am sure you will have a nice day out and I guarantee you will see some terrific golf.

Remember the County Vets Open at Fortrose on 11th August. For entries phone Aline Drummond on 01381 620326.

Mairi Orr
Captain

North of Scotland Girls Championship Results

The above championship took place at Nairn Dunbar Golf Club on Wednesday 20th July and the results are as follows:-

1st Scratch - Kelsey Macdonald (Nairn Dunbar) 77;
2nd Scratch - Laura Murray (Alford) 78;
3rd Scratch - Roseanne Niven (Crieff) 79

1st Handicap - Donna MacKinnon (Durness) (26) 70;
2nd Handicap - Sammy Vass (Tain) (11) 73 bih;
3rd Handicap - Rebecca Wilson (Monifieth) (6) 73

Cara Gruber
Junior Convenor

Island Games

12 Islands sent golf teams to take part in the Island Games. Shetland Ladies Golf Team made up of Heather Hogg, Irene Tait, Andelina Sandisan and Lorraine Anderson had a tense time before the official result was anounced that they had tied in Gold Medal position with Bermuda in the Island Games hosted this year by Shetland from 12th - 15th July. The two teams had to nominate a player to play sudden-death and Heather Hogg was chosen for Shetland and Ebonie Burgess for Bermuda. Heather won the toss and cooly played the drive of her life and had a par 4 against the 2 handicapper Ebonie's 5 to take Gold for the girls to the great delight of all watching. The Orkney team of Shona Croy, Elspeth McLean, Eileen Spence and Audrey Poke finished on 5th position with Shona being their best player finishing 6th in the Individual event. Irene Tait just missed out on the Individual Medals finishing 4th. The 2 Bermudans, Laura Robinson, handicap 1 and Ebonie Burgess, handicap 2 won Golf & Silver with Soshie Beardsall I.O.W. in Bronze. A great occasion for both Northern Counties Islands Ladies Teams and a fantastic result for Shetland "Girls".

Reported by Liz Munro

Jamboree photographs

Counties Open

Entries for the County Open at CARDROSS on 23th AUGUST will be taken until 1st AUGUST on 01738 442357 or through the web site www.slga.co.uk

Mairi Orr
Captain

Winners at Fort Willaim - Ashton Ingram & Sammy Vass

Tarbat Extra Open

With regret, the above Open will not take place due to unforseen circumstances and we apologise for any inconvenience. Morag Lane shall return all monies soonest. Hopefully we will be able to re-schedule soonest.

Regards
Mairi Orr, Captain

Update

Just back from a very succesful County Open at Fort William where we were made most welcome and you really should have a visit there sometime. The weather was extremely kind to us and we were relatively midgie free! New friendships were formed and hopefully we will someday be back in the west. Tarbat Extra Open is next week - 22nd July and entries are still being accepted on 01862 871598.
Don't forget we are delighted when the county girls play in these opens and their entry fee is £5, so please encourage them.
Next month is the County Veterans at Fortrose and all entries should go to Aline Drummond on 01381 620326.
Please display all County notices in a prominent position in your locker rooms then all the members can see what is going on and indeed hopefully encourage more people to join us.
Next week I shall send you a 2006 fixture list which I would like you to discuss with your Captain/Secretary before you finalise your club fixtures. Increasingly fixtures are clashing and can cause inconvenience.
On the Scratch League front, Ross-shire are through from the North to the Final on September 11th at Tain. We still await results from the South.
The County Team are working hard in order to defend the Scottish Trophy at Ranfurly Castle in September. It would be terrific if you could make the trip south to support us.
Susan Mackenzie is to be the caddy mistress and will be pleased to take a call or e-mail from you as of course volunteers are always welcome.

Regards
Mairi Orr, Captain

County Open at Fort William

It was the first time Fort William golf club had ever hosted an Open and I know it will not be the last. The weather was extremely kind to us and Ben Nevis emerged from the clouds to provide a stunning backdrop to a wonderful golf course. There was not a midgie in sight! The young guns, Ashton ingram and Sammy Vass delighted us all by cutting their handicaps ahead of travelling to Prestwick for the BP Scottish Ladies Junior Championships. Ashton Ingram playing on her home course equalled the course record of 70 set by Rosemary McIntyre in July 1997. Ashton's scores were:

par 4 4 3 5 5 3 4 4 5 37 5 4 3 3 5 3 3 4 4 34 5 4 2 5 5 3 5 4 4 37 4 4 3 4 5 3 2 4 4 33

The results as follows: SS 71 CSS 72

Silver Scratch - Ashton Ingram 70 (Fort William)
1st Handicap - Sammy Vass (13) 66 (Tain)
2nd Handicap - Kathleen Leitch (12) 73 (Fort William)

Bronze 1st Handicap - Jan Paterson (22) 72 (Fort Augustus)
Bronze 2nd Handicap - Gail Anderson (21) 73 (Fort William)
Bronze 3rd Handicap - Jean Cameron (28) 77 (Strathpeffer)

The County Putter was won by Maraid Mackay of Fort Augustus and we know she will put it to good use. Thanks to Fort WIlliam for their courtesy and hospitality and we would recommend you all try to play there.

Mairi Orr
Captain

TARBAT OPEN

Reminder of the TARBAT OPEN on FRIDAY 22nd JULY.

Late entries still being accepted for OPEN at FORT WILLIAM on SUNDAY 10th JULY. Telephone 01397 772568

Draw for Open Meeting at Fort William

Sunday 10th July
11.08 - Paula Halas (FW), Jean Cameron (S) Division B
11.16 - Joan Barker (FW), Pam Gordon (I) Division S
11.24 - Kathleen Leithch (FW), Isobel MacIntosh (I) Division S
11.32 - Dot Rae (FW), Rosemary Bruce (MO) Division B
11.40 - Rosie MacIntyre (FW), Mairi Orr (T) Division S
11.48 - Patricia Miller (FW), M Douglas (D) Division B
11.56 - Helen Brian (FW), Mary Heyden (T) DIvision S
12.04 - Sheila Ramsay (I), L Lloyd Baker (G) Division S
12.12 - Iris Wilson (F), Maureen Ritchie (MO) Division S
12.20 - Dorothy Marshall (F), Liz MacLaren (I) Division S
12.28 - Sheena MacLennan (ND), Janice Cummings (I) DIvision S
12.36 - Jean Tims (FW), E Dey (K) Division B
12.44 - P Ross (K), Sally Rowan (I) DIvision B
12.52 - J Grant (K), Jean Russell (T) Division S
13.00 - Kim Topping (FW), A Ryan (T) Division S
13.08 - Ashton Ingram (FW), Mary Smith (T) Division S
13.16 - S Vass (T), Gail Anderson (FW) Division S/B
13.24 - Ann Lovatt (FW), Jan Paterson (FA) Division B
13.32 -

FW - Fort William; G - Grantown; I - Inverness; K - Kingussie; MO - Muir of Ord; ND - Nairn Dunbar; D - Dornoch; T - Tain; S - Strathpeffer; FA - Fort Augusus

THANKYOU

I would like to congratulate the team for another outstanding performance in defence of the Gibb Trophy. This now brings Northern Counties victories to 14 since 1980. The players were very supportive of each other, and throughout the weekend, had a terrific spirit and it was a pleasure to be the captian of Northern Counties Team.

Further, I would like to thank all the caddies and supporters who so willingly gave of their time. It was much appreciated. I would make special mention of Susan Mackenzie who seemed tireless throughout and was the mistress of all trades.

To Elgin golf Club and all the staff for so generously affording their facilities and course for the weekend - thank you on behalf of us all.

Some of you may have noticed the team had new sweaters and these were very generously donated by Johnstons of Elgin, and a big thank you also goes to them.

Your Northern Counties Squad shall shortly be getting into County Final mode for their trip to Ranfurly Castle 16th - 18th September where they shall be defending the Scottish County Trophy.

Thank you all

Mairi
Captain

JAMBOREE

HAT TRICK for NORTHERN COUNTIES. RUNFARLY CASTLE GOLF CLUB here we come in September. Well done to all players.

Jamboree

Very best wishes to all the Northern Counties Team this week-end from Inverness Golf Club
Sally Rowan, Secretary

JAMBOREE

Best of luck to all the team at ELgin - Bonar Bridge Ardgay Golf Club

Good wishes to the Northern County Ladies at the Jamboree - Buckpool Golf Club

Good Luck to all members of Northern Counties at Elgin this weekend - Elgin Golf Club Ladies

REMINDERS

County open at Fort William on SUNDAY 10th JULY - closing date for entries is 24th June to Mrs R. Macintyre, 13 Clerk Drive, Corpach, Fort WIlliam PH33 7LE Tel: 01397 772568.

JAMBOREE - All members are cordially invited to attend, dressed in RED JERSEYS, Elgin Golf Course to experience some wonderful golf. Look forward to seeing you there to support Northern Counties - Saturday 25th, Sunday 26th and Monday 27th JUNE

Mairi Orr
Captain

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

We would all like to wish the Junior Convenor, Cara Gruber a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY and BEST WISHES from us all on the 18th June 2005

Mairi Orr
Captain

COUNTY PUTTER

Morag Lane from Tarbat won the County Putter at Grantown on Spey. Congratulations to her.

Mairi Orr
Captain

RANKINGS TABLE

Well done to Cara Gruber who is climbing her way up the rankings table. We wish her well next week at Littlestone where she is playing in the Ladies British Open.

Mairi Orr
Captain

COUNTY OPEN

The next County Open will be held at FORT WILLIAM GOLF CLUB on SUNDAY 10th JULY. Closing date is the 24th June.
Entries to be sent to - Mrs R. Macintyre, 13 Clerk Drive, Corpach, Fort William PH33 7LE - Telephone 01397 772568. Entry fee £7 for members and £10 for non-menbers.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Results of Northern Counties Foursomes

The above competition was held at Grantown-on-Spey Golf Club on 26th May and the results are as follows:-
1st Scratch - Mary Smith & Jean Russell (Tain) (9) - 85
1st Handicap - Elda Morrison & Sheena Dunn (Fortrose) (20.5) - 69.5
2nd Handicap - Joan Barker & Kathleen Leech (Fort William) (15.5) - 70.5
3rd Handicap - A. Mackintosh & A. Smitton (Fortrose) (22) - 75
4th Handicap - Sheila Duncan & Anne Barnett (Royal Dornoch) (19.5) - 76.5

Mary Hayden
Hon. Secretary

COURSE RECORD

Cara Gruber played in the Ladies Medal and SLGA Brooch on Wednesday 25th May at Royal Dornoch Golf Club and had a gross 69.

par: 4 3 4 5 4 3 5 4 5 - 37 3 5 5 3 5 4 5 4 5 - 39

score: 3 4 3 3 5 3 5 4 4 - 34 2 4 5 3 5 3 4 5 4 - 35

The previous record was 71 and was held by Lindsey Anderson.
Unfortunately, Cara did not win the Brooch as she was beaten on a better inward half by Joan Dean!

Cara is now playing off a handicap of +1. Well done!

Mairi Orr
Captain

North of Scotland Championship

Just a reminder of the above championship at BANCHORY GOLF CLUB on Monday 4th, Tuesday 5th and Wednesday 6th July 2005. This competition is open to all county members. Please refer to the Gillian Kirkwood Website for more details.

Mairi Orr
Captain

County Foursomes on 26th May at Grantown

The County foursomes competition at Grantown on Spey is looking for a late entry to play at 12 noon on 26th May. One pair is all that is required. If you would like to enter, please ring Lorna Lloyd-Baker on 01808 521361, leave a message and she will return your call as soon as. Cost £10 per pair and an optional £2 for the Commonwealth Spoons. Hope the sun shines on Thursday!

Mairi Orr
Captain

Congratulations

Wonderful news - Kelsey MacDonald has been selected to play in the European Girls Team Championships at Lucerne in Switzerland from July 5th to 9th and we wish her every success.

Mairi Orr
Captain

The "Past Its"

On Sunday 22nd May in glorious sunshine, the Past Captains of the Northern Counties team played against the Northern Counties 2005 team. A Great time was had by all who participated with 2 games being won and 2 games being lost. A cup was donated by Pam Gordon for the occasion and hopefully it will become an annual event.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Scratch League

"North Counties"
Sunday 8th May, Ross-shire played Inverness at Invergordon.
Mary Smith v Marion Howieson 3 up; Audrey Scott v Christine Mackay 5 up; Sonna Sinclair v Janice Cumming 5 up; Anne Ryan v Alison Gowie 8 up.

Sunday 15th May, Inverness played Caithness/Sutherland at Inverness.
Ashto Ingram v Eileen Manson all square; Marion Howieson v Marion Mackay 7 up; Christine Mackay v Liz Coghill 5 down. The fourth game was awarded to Inverness as Caithness/Sutherland fielded only 3 players.

Delegates note - please continue to send your handicap stats. of people reducing, who knows you might have a champion in your midst, and also let us know about your category 1 and 2 players.

For information the handicaps of the above players are as follows:-
M. Smith 5; M. Howieson 7; A. Scott 5; C. Mackay 9; D. Sinclaiar 5; J. Cumming 9; A. Ryan 6; A. Gowie 11; E. Manson 6; M. Mackay 7; L. Coghill 12; A. Ingram 6;

Mairi Orr
Captain

Scottish Ladies Championship

I am sure you will join me in congratualting Kelsey MacDonald and Cara Gruber on their fine scores thru the difficult weather conditions of the last two days at Cruden Bay Golf Course. They are both through to the match play stages of the Scottish Ladies Close Championships; Kelsey with scores of 83 & 76 and Cara 77 & 82.

Our other entries put up a valiant display of golf given the attrocious weather conditions and so well done to Laura Walker, Jenny Milne and Pam Mackay.

Good luck to Laura who has qualified to play in the Rosebowl.

Watch this space for the hopefully positive results over the next two days.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Scottish Close Championships at Cruden Bay

Kelsy MacDonald and Cara Gruber were knocked out of the above. Kelsey played K. Marshall and lost 4 & 2 and Cara played C. N. Carlton and was beaten 4 & 3.

Clark Rosebowl
Laura Walker won in the morning against Louise Fraser by one hole and lost in the aftrnoon to Dawn Dewar 3 & 2.

Well done to them all.

Mairi Orr
Captain

NORTHERN COUNTIES TEAM 2005

The Northern Counties Team for the Inter-County Championship at Elgin on 25th, 26th & 27th June will be -

Cara Gruber (Royal Dornoch), Kerri Harper (Inverness), Christine McAndrew (Nairn Dunbar), Kelsey MacDonald (Nairn Dunbar), Jenny Milne (Elgin), Meg Sievewright (Keith), Linda Smith (Buckpool), Laura Walker (Nairn Dunbar)

Reserves - Marion Howieson (Inverness) & Mary Smith (Tain)

Mairi Orr
Captain

Scottish Ladies Close Championship

Northern Counties would like to wish every success to our players who are participating in the above competition at Cruden Bay - good luck to CARA GRUBER, PAM MACKAY, KELSEY MACDONALD, LAURA WALKER and JENNY MILNE.

Mairi Orr
Captain

County Foursomes Draw

County Foursomes/Commonwealth Spoons - Thursday 26th May at Grantown-on-Spey Golf Club
10.45 - P Ingram & I Shannon (BG), L Fraser & M Addison (I)
10.52 - V Patrick & C Boyd (F), J. Glenn (S) & H Cumming (FR)
11.00 - M Wilson & E Allan (FR), E Hutton & M MacLean (MO)
11.08 - P Morrison & partner (MO), F James & S Cobban (F)
11.15 - S Duncan & A Barnett (RD), I Mackintosh & A Smith (FR)
11.22 - J Cumming & L Maclaran (I), B Grant & M Fowler (G)
11.30 - A Lovatt & D Rae (FW), H Macleod & L Barrie (I)
11.38 - J Henderson & M Grant (G), J Grant & partner (K)
11.45 - E Rae & J Grant (I), M Webster & F Fraser (MO)
11.52 - J Tulloch (M) & G More (H), M Dick & M Allan (Gr)
12.00 - W Spencer & W Hendry (MO), C Mackay & N Hogg (I)
12.08 - M Ritchie & R Bruce (FR), J Wilson (F) & S Maclennon (ND)
12.15 - T Weekes & A Burnett (RD), M Lane & M Gordon (T)
12.22 - G Anderson & R MacIntyre (FW), M Smith & J Russell (Ta)
12.30 - J Barker & K Leitch (FW), J Thornton & J Gilchrist (FW)
12.38 - B Bremner & A Drummond (FR), E Wallace & D Mackay (FR)
12.45 - E Morrison & S Dunn (FR), L Lloyd-Baker & M McLachlan (Gr)
12.52 - M Orr & M Haden (Ta), M Douglas & S McDonald (RD)
13.00 - P Brown & J Elder (ND), P Smith & P Macgee (I)
13.08 - C Grant & A Oakes (Gr), S Helal & M Mackay (RD)
13.15 -
13.22 - I McIntosh (I) & M James (F), M Sharp & H Littler (Gr)

Abbreviations - BG - Boat of Garten; I - Inverness; F - Forres; FR - Fortrose & Rosemarkie; MO - Muir of Ord; RD - Royal Dornoch; G - Garmouth & Kingston; K - Kingussie; H - Hopeman; Gr - Grantown-on-Spey; ND - Nairn Dunbar; FW - Fort William; Ta - Tain; T - Tarbet; M - Moray; S - Strathpeffer

Challenge Bowls

The closing date for the above competition has been extended to MONDAY 16th MAY. The Competition is to be held at Forrester Park Golf CLub on TUESDAY 7th JUNE.

Regards
Mairi Orr, Captain

Girls McDermott Trophy

The Northern Counties Girls McDermott Trophy took place on Sunday 8th May at a rather wet & windy Garmouth & Kinston. The Par and CSS were 71.
Results were as follows:-

1st Scratch - Kelsey MacDonald - Nairn Dunbar - 80
2nd Scratch - Ashton Ingram -Fort William - 82

1st Handicap - Sammy Vass - Tain - 67
2nd Handicap - Chloe MacLeod - Nairn Dunbar - 78

Cara Gruber
Junior Convenor

County Foursomes

Please note that the County Foursomes/Commonwealth Spoons are being held at Grantown-on-Spey Golf Club on Thursday 26th May. Closing Date is the 10th May. Entry fee £10 per couple with an optional £2 per couple for Spoons competition. Entries to Mrs L.Loyd-Baker, Brin House, Fichity, Inverness IV2 6XE - Telephone 01808 629361

Championship Final Results

Mary Benton Trophy
Semi-Final - K. MacDonald (Nairn Dunbar) beat K. Harper (Inverness) 2 & 1; M. Howieson (Inverness) beat J. Milne (Elgin) 3 & 2
Final - K. MacDonald beat M. Howieson by 2 holes

Chetham Trophy (Handicap)
Semi-Final - S. MacDonell (Inverness) beat S. Mackenzie (Elgin) 6 & 5; F. Allan (Inverness) beat A. Strauss (Royal Dornoch) 2 & 1
Final - S. MacDonell beat F. Allan 4 & 3

Next year the Championship will be held at Forres Golf Club.

Championship Results

Mary Benton Trophy - Qualifiers
K. Harper (4) (Inverness) 74; J. Milne (2) (Elgin) 75; M. Howieson (8) (Inverness) 79; K Macdonald (3) (Nairn Dunbar) 79; E. Manson (6) (Thurso) 80; W. Ross (5) (Elgin) 80; L. Clark (7) (Nairn) 81; C. McAndrew (3) (Nairn Dunbar)83

Quarter Finals -
K. Harper beat C. McAndrew 3 & 2; K. Macdonald v E. Manson 1 up; M. Howieson beat W. Ross 5 & 3; J. Milne beat L. Clark 4 & 3

Chetham Trophy (Handicap) - Qualifiers
S. MacDonell (Inverness) (17) 72; A. Strauss (Royal Dornoch) (13) 73; F. Allan (Inverness) (23) 73; S. Mackenzie (Elgin) (12) 75

Winner of the Raffle prize which was a wonderful putter was - Trish Fraser from Fortrose & Rosemarkie Golf Club - Congratulations to you!

Congratulations

Wishing Cara Gruber and Kelsey Macdonald good golf at the Helen Holm at Troon this weekend.
Mairi Orr, Captain

Congratulations

Congratulations go to Cara Gruber for being selected for Scotland no. 2 at the Welsh Championship and we wish her every success. As our Junior Convenor and Secretary, she is doing a magnificent job rounding up the troops and encouraging them to play and what a role model the girls have to follow.

Congratulations to Kelsey MacDonald, Sammy Vass and Chloe Macleod for their efforts at the St. Leonards last week.

Congratulations to Christine McAndrew in the Vets. match against Ireland.

Northern Counties Championship Draw

Inverness Golf Club - Saturday 30th April

B - Brora; BB - Bonar Bridge; Bu -Buckpool; E - Elgin; F - Forres; F&R - Fortrose & Rosemarkie; FW - Fort William; I - Inverness; MO - Muir of Ord; N - Nairn; ND - Nairn Dunbar; RD - Royal Dornoch; S - Strathpeffer; T - Tain; TB - Tarbat; Th - Thurso; W - Wick

8.00 - L. Smith Bu & J. Milne E
8.06 - K. MacDonald ND & K. Harper I
8.12 - C. MacAndrew ND & M. Smith T
8.18 - W. Ross E & E. Manson Th
8.24 - A. Ryan T & A. Dunnett Th
8.30 - A. Ingram FW & N. Scrimgeour MO
8.36 - L. Clark N & M. Howieson I
8.42 - D. MacAngus W & P. Gordon I
8.48 - V. Spark S & C. MacKay I
8.54 - M. MacDonald Bu & G. Hutcheon I
9.00 - A. Gowie I & M. MacDonald RD
9.06 - L. Fraser FR & S. Mackenzie E
9.12 - H. Stuart MO & E. Coghill RD
9.18 - P. Morrison MO & M. Gordon TB
9.24 - E. Hutton MO & D. Marshall F
9.30 - M. Bagott RD & M. Barclay Bu
9.36 - A. Strauss RD & S. MacLennan ND
9.42 - D. McBride RD & A. Miller N
9.48 - T. WEekes RD & J. Nalder N
9.54 P. MacPherson ND & M. Ross FR
10.00 - N. Bowie I & D. Mackay MO
10.06 - M. Lane TB & E. Wallace MO
10.12 - M. Ritchie MO & M. Rennie RD
10.18 - F. Fraser FR & J. Glen S
10.24 - H. Cumming FR & M. Brennan RD
10.30 - S. Macdonell I & S. Vass T
10.36 -
10.42 - M. MacLean MO & V. Balfour W
10.48 - A. Rose MO & A. Burnett RD
10.54 - R. Bruce MO & F. Allan I
11.00 - A. Drummond FR & K. LAwson RD
11.06 - A. Ross T & K. MacKay ND
11.12 - C. MacKay MO & H. MacLeod I
11.18 - T. Miller ND & B. Little B
11.24 - M. Matheson BB & M. Hill RD
11.30 - S. MacDonald RD & M. Webster FR
11.36 - J. Elder ND & W. Hendry MO
11.42 - P. Webster BB & J. Cameron S
11.48 - S. Bruce B & M. Douglas RD

NC Girls Competition

The first Senior/Girl Foursomes stableford competition was held at Strathpeffer Spa Golf Club and was a great success. Results are as follows:-

1. Kelsey MacDonald & Cara Gruber (Nairn Dunbar & Royal Dornoch) 38 pts.
2. Rachel & George Clubb (Royal Dornoch) 32 pts.
3. Ashton Ingram & Mairi Orr (Fort William & Tain) 28 pts.
4. Chloe MacLeod & Sheena MacLennan (Nairn Dunbar) 24 pts.
5. Alice & Sally Rowan (Inverness) 23 pts.

Also Cara Gruber had her first ever hole in one at the 142 yard par 3 14th hole, using an 8 iron - Well done to her!!

County Championships

If you do not have your entry in for the Championships, what are you waiting for! Liz Maclaren is waiting for the postman every day. Look forward to seeing you all in Inverness.

Mairi Orr, Captain

County Gear

Enamel badges can be bought at £4 each and Polo shirts at £10 each. A small selection of sweaters are also available. We need you to purchase these items as without your support, county funding could be a problem.

Best wishes
Mairi Orr, Captain

Celebrations in Tenerife

Ten Northern County members are in Tenerife for Gillian Hutcheon's pre-nuptials and took time out to support Lix McKinnon at the Tenerife Open where she is on +2 after the first day. Liz did extremely well in Bangkok and will be back in Northern Counties on the 12th April to give us all her news.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Junior Training

The Junior Convenor intends to split the county into four areas - Caithness, Sutherland/Ross-shire, Ross-shire/Inverness-shire, Inverness-shire/Morayshire (roughly). It is hoped that the SLGA National Coach, Karyn Dallas, will come and teach the volunteers/leaders in the various areas. They will be taught the basics of a coaching programme and given some games to play with the girls. It is all about making golf fun and trying to keep them interested. The coaching will be run entirely by the volunteers (if she can get enough). All sessions will be free if they are members of the County. Coaching will also be available for more developed golfers (this will be done by pro's). 4 - 6 sessions are planned for the year, with the first being in May.
So as I am sure you have all guessed by now, she is on the hunt for volunteers.
Eileen Manson (Caithness), Mary Smith (Sutherland/Ross-shire), possible Mairi Orr in the same area and Jenny Milne (Morayshire) have already offered their services, but more are needed for the programme to work. Please let Cara Gruber (Junior Convenor) know if you are interested -
e-mail address - caz55_uk@yahoo.co.uk
telephone no. - 01997 421336
The above mentioned ladies, could you please contact Cara with possible times to get together with Karyn.

Reminder for Junior Girls

NEW COMPETITION - The Senior/Girl competition will take place on Sunday 17th April at Strathpeffer Spa Golf Club. Everybody is welcome and a handicap is not necessary. There will be fun competitions with prizes as well as prizes for the main competition. Please come along. I look forward to meeting you all then.

Cara Gruber
Junior Convenor

Reminder

Please note that the Closing Date for entries to the COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIPS is 15th April. This year they are being held at INVERNESS GOLF COURSE on 30th April and 1st May.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Pam's Quiz

A big thank you to all who took part in the quiz night at Fairways on Wednesday 23rd March. An outstanding amount of over £400 was raised for the junior girls. The entry was also the biggest ever received with 16 teams participating. A special THANK YOU must go to Pam Gordon for all her hard work in organising and running the competition. Great job Pam!

Cara Gruber
Junior Convenor

News from Liz McKinnon

Hi All,
Just to let you know that Roy and I will be back in Inverness on 12th April. We fly out of NZ this Saturday and go to Thailand where I am playing in the 2005 Thailand Ladies Open and then we go to Tenerife for the Tenerife Ladies Open. I met up with Annette Laing for a few holes at Auckland Golf Club. At the moment she can only play 9 holes as she recently had a back operation, though she should be back to full swing in a couple of months. She was asking after a lot of people and was very interested to know what life was now like in Scotland and the difference with New Zealand. See you all in 2 weeks.

Liz McKinnon

County Squad & Scratch League Organisers

REMINDER
The next Training Meeting wil be held at Elgin on Sunday 20th March at 10.00 am. If you have not done so already, please notify Captain of attendance (or not) as soon as possible.

Jenny Louden

Quiz Reminder

Everybody please note that Pam's Quiz Night is on 23rd March at Fairways, Inverness. 7 for 7.30 pm and the cost is £5 per head which will include light refreshments. Telephone 01667 453392 with your team details.

Mairi Orr
Captain

New Secretary

I would like to welcome Mary Hayden as our new secretary for Northern Counties. Our previous secretary, Pam Moscati, has had to retire due to ill health and I would like to take this opportunity of thanking her for the work she has done over the past few months.

Mairi Orr
Captain

Congratulations to Kelsey

The Officials of NCLGA send heartfelt congratulations to Kelsey MacDonald on being selected to represent Scotland in Team 2 on the 7th & 8th April 2005 in The St. Leonards 16s.
We are very proud of the effort which Kelsey has put in and we know she will be an inspiration to all of our junior girls.

Mairi Orr
Captain