C&O Autumn Golf Tournament — October 2009
A bright and sunny morning on Saturday 10th October welcomed twelve Cambridge & Oxford golfers to Ibaraki-ken for the Autumn 2009 meeting. The venue, Shishido Hills Country Club (West Course), hosts one of the four “Major” tournaments for Japanese professionals each year, and — true to its reputation — provided one of the toughest tests the C&O golfers have faced. We were fortunate to play there thanks to the kind arrangements of Mr Yoshio Karita.
Among our group, we were delighted to welcome two first-time C&O golf participants: Masaji Takahashi and Charles Postles. Ambassador Takahashi, having previously served in Australia, even arrived wearing a jacket from the 1998 Presidents Cup at Royal Melbourne — the only time the International Team has ever secured victory. It was also a pleasure to see Yoshi Kawamura again, recently returned from a three-year posting in Chicago, joining regular players Yoshi Shimizu, John Sunley, and Jim Weeks.
Participants at the 2009 Autumn Golf Meeting, Shishido Hills West Course.
Starting from the 10th tee, the opening nine proved challenging for many, and lunchtime conversations focused more on the stunning natural beauty of Shishido Hills than on the quality of the golf. At the halfway point, Alex Miller and Steven Thomas were leading with impressive gross 38s, followed closely by Simon Dalby on 40.
After a restorative lunch, the afternoon round brought improved scores across the board. Defending Champion Yasuzo Takeno produced a strong 42, while Yoshi Kawamura matched that score despite an unfortunate OB on the final hole. Kawamura-san’s net 72 earned him third place, just behind Alex Miller on net 70.
Ultimately, it was Simon Dalby whose excellent back nine — a polished 34 gross — secured him the overall win with a net 69. His gross 74 also earned him best-gross honours, edging out Steven Thomas by a single stroke.
2009 Champion Simon Dalby receiving the C&O Cup from Terry Nakamura.
In the long-running University Match, Oxford prevailed comfortably, extending their historical lead to 20–15 since records began in 1989.
The day concluded with a short celebration, prize-giving, and the presentation of the C&O Cup. As always, our sincere thanks go to Terry Nakamura for his excellent organisation. It was agreed that the next Spring Meeting would be held at Hodogaya Country Club on Saturday 27th March 2010 (subject to confirmation). C&O golfers — please mark your diaries!
— Steven Thomas (Merton College, Oxford 1979)