BRYNHILL Golf Club is celebrating its centenary this year with the first of the festivities held last Friday, exactly 100 years after the opening of the course on May 28, 1921.
The Barry club hosted a golf day with a difference, all golfers used hickory shaft clubs as they did 100 years ago.
The day was well supported by members with many in Edwardian costumes enthusiastically enjoying the whole experience.
Club captain Chris Phillips with his wife Jane
Club captain Chris Phillips said: “I am sure 100 years ago terms such as lockdown and social distancing were not in daily use.
“At times it appeared that Friday’s event would not be allowed to take place, but fortunately circumstances improved, risk assessments completed, and the day was able to go ahead.”
A Texas scramble was the format with combined team handicaps varying considerably with some receiving the maximum amount and another totalling a grand total of 4 (Brynhill Men’s first team).
Best dressed Lady Glynis Gould with her husband Steve
The captain thanked his vice-captain Richard Pierce and the whole team of staff and volunteers at Brynhill for combining skills to make the day a great success.
Well done to the winning team, Jamie Griffiths, Maurice Ryan, Kyron Sullivan & Scott Warne and runners up Phil Lloyd, Richard Pierce, Mitchell Pierce & Huw Vaughan.
Best dressed Lady was Glynis Gould & Best dressed Gent was Mitchell Pierce.
In February 1921, a group of people wanted to explore the possibility of constructing a course. Having appointed a secretary and treasurer they agreed that the site at Brynhill would be suitable and accepted the offer of the tenant farmer who allowed the use of the land at a rate of just £3 per annum with the proviso he could continue to graze his sheep on it.
The founder members, pictured, completed much of the construction work themselves removing stones and building greens and tees.
A portable shed was borrowed from Barry Docks to use as a clubhouse and with the employment of the first professional David Rees, father of the famous Dai Rees the course was opened by the president of the club, Major William Cope MP, ‘driving in’.
This was followed by a foursome match between the club captain and David Rees against two golfers from Dinas Powys.
The event was filmed by the manager of the Theatre Royal, Barry and later shown at the cinema. Possibly the first time that golf had been seen on screen in Wales.
Golfing fortunes have fluctuated over the years with many clubs having long waiting lists.
Brynhill today, with its ever-increasing membership, has offers of up to 30% off memberships for 2021.
Contact 01446 720277 for further details. www.brynhillgolfclub.co.uk
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