The Baltic Exchange Golfing Society (BEGS) Sandwich Challenge took place on 1 and 2 February at Prince's Golf Club, marking the fifth outing to the Kent coast for BEGS. Despite disruption to courses across the country due to adverse weather, the course was playable and in excellent condition. 

From modest beginnings in its first year with eight participants, the event has grown significantly, with thirty five players attending this year.

The North team was led by this year's BEGS captain Peter Hirons, while the South team was led by vice captain Tony McDonnell. In January it was agreed that Adrian Stow’s famous Wooden Spoon would be reinstated as the event trophy. Adrian Stow, a former Captain and Gold Cup winner, sadly passed away in January. 

Sunday’s scoring was led by three first time participants at Prince’s, with Robin Hudson, Harry Wrey and Julius Klutmann each returning 40 points or more. At the end of day one, the South were narrowly in the lead, with five points to four.

All participants contributed £10 to a ‘2s’ competition, creating a prize fund of £350 to be shared among those recording a two. On the first day, Mark Ravenscroft recorded two twos and Phil McDonnell recorded one.

Following play on Sunday, players returned to the clubhouse where dinner was held. The post-game refreshments were generously sponsored by SSY. 

Monday provided further dry conditions, with all groups on the course by 10am. A further nine twos were recorded during the second round. Mark Ravenscroft and Bob Childs each recorded two, and the prize fund was distributed accordingly.

In the overall match result, the North defeated the South ten points to six. Peter Hirons was awarded the Wooden Spoon, as captain of the winning side.

The overall singles competition was won by Robin Hudson on his first appearance, with an impressive total of 74 points. David Knights finished second with 72 points.

The event continues to grow in scale, with twelve new players participating this year, marking an encouraging start to the organisation’s 125th anniversary year.

The Sandwich Challenge has been rebooked for 31 January and 1 February 2027. Interested participants are invited to contact Chris Cox in due course, as places are already being allocated.

Here’s to a successful year ahead!