In the early summer of 1967 the club's Vice Captain, with the blessing
of the committee, called a meeting of over-60 members interested in forming
a Veterans Section. Thirteen attended under the chairmanship of Sidney Parrett
and he was elected Captain with Sqn.Ldr. Roly Higgins as Secretary - Treasurer.
The aim of the section was to arrange matches and promote internal competition
- and the legacy passed down to today's Vets owes a great deal to the founder
members. Selection for matches involved as many members as possible with
pairings changing throughout the season.
The first match, played against Waterlooville, was followed that year
by matches with Alresford, Rowlands Castle and Corhampton Ladies. Competition
has grown and the Vets current fixture list features 33 matches against 13
different clubs.
Of the 13 who attended the inaugural meeting only two remain - Mr. Les
Mathams and Cdr. Derek Mallinson, who was destined to become Captain twice
and also Secretary-Treasurer. There had to be a temporary bending of the
rules to allow Derek to take up his first captaincy before reaching the age
of 60.
The list of Veterans Captains is prominently displayed in the clubhouse
but the names of our Secretary-Treasurers, to whom we owe so much, are concealed
in our minute books. Sandwiched between Roly Higgins and Derek Mallinson
came "Schoolie" Gimblett followed by Major Beckett. Then came Dick Shillitoe
who was succeeded by Ted Leggatt in 1988. Last year Ted was also our Captain.
Membership of the Veterans Section is now just under 70 and looks set to
increase at a steady rate.
The Veterans Centenary Committee organised two highly successful veterans
open competitions and has concentrated on fund raising. The committee's main
aim is to donate sufficient funds to the club to build a shelter on the new
extension to the course.
Corhampton veterans send their salutations to all members of the club and wish them a happy and enjoyable Centenary Year.