The 50th Stowe Putter

1 September 2016

The iconic Stowe Golf Course was in tip top condition for this special tournament for The Stowe Putter and Junior Jigger. 65  golfing stars of the future representing 35 schools locked horns with the challenging course and, whilst overnight rain had made the fast greens slightly more receptive, some devilish  pin positions made scoring not as straightforward as the yardage of the course might have suggested. This year, we were thrilled to be joined by the legendary Peter Alliss as our Guest of Honour. Peter was escorted around the course by Stowe’s newly appointed golf professional, Andy Hancox. There was a great deal of excellent play to catch the eye of both of them as they toured the course. Andy was especially keen to discuss with parents his exciting plans for golf at Stowe.

In what marked a first for the competition, the Stowe Putter and Junior Jigger were won by siblings, Rory and Isla Mcdonald O’Brien who scored 54 and 45 points respectively. They are pictured here with Peter Alliss. In his address, Mr Alliss commented on the excellent condition of the course, suggesting that Stowe must have the finest school golf course in the country and that it was a tribute to the groundstaff, led by Steve Curley, that it had been presented in such good order. He reflected on his previous visit to present the prizes in 1980 and to his son playing in the competition in the inaugural event. However, his main point was one he remarked that he had made many times on television – slow play. He challenged the young golfers to think ahead and speed up their game.

The Headmaster, Anthony Wallersteiner, said what a privilege it had been to have Peter Alliss return to Stowe. He also thanked all those responsible for the organisation of the tournament.

Please follow this link to see photographs from the day’s play. The prize winners can be found here. For full results please see here. School results can be seen here.

The provisional date for next year’s tournament will be Thursday 24 August 2017. I very much hope to see you there.

David Fletcher