Eagle Ridge Golf League News
August 16, 2016, League Results
Bill Jackson
New Handicaps are set for the playoffs
You can imagine the reason there was not a report for August 21, 2016, and you were correct. Everyone was on the course and then we all became drenched, literally soaked. Most groups had finished two holes before they ran for the shelters. When the downpour slowed to a light rain, back out, we went. J. Lynn and I were playing number 4, protected at number 5, and when the rain lightened, we went back to the number 4 tee finding that both the green and the tee were under water. We gave up and came home, as did everyone else. I imagine that the entire course was in the same condition.
The reason for writing this report is for information purposes.
FIRST
My very good friend, long-time golf league member, and very principled person, Jim Allen died on August 18 after a motorcycle accident on Tuesday 16. I was concerned when Jim was not at league on Tuesday because when Jim could not play he would call in or tell a league member. That is called responsibility, and manners. Or, at other times, if he knew he would be out of town, Jim would turn in a makeup round so the scorers would know he could not be there. My concern was primarily true because Jim was in a trophy position in the league standings, standing number 4.
When Jim or I arrived, we greeted each other, and he would say “how’s it going, Billy Bob?” We would just talk, nothing important, just two guys talking. Not long ago, Jim told me the story of losing his dog when it ran out of a lot during a particularly strong thunderstorm this Spring. He immediately searched for his pet, trudging up and down the roads, then up and down the surrounding hills. Jim could not find his pet. Then he put up signs throughout the area, describing his dog and asking for the help of his neighbors and friends. He was elated when his pet was found. You could see the joy and relief in his face.
The beauty of golf is that it uncovers the character of an individual. Some people curse, others cheat, some report lower scores, others don’t count shots out-of-bounds or lost balls, or give themselves putts that are outside the limits; actually some members do other such acts that do not follow the rules of golf or even the league rules which are more lenient. Jim had character and the ability to laugh at himself. He was a pleasure to play and talk with, and he had a terrific sense of humor. Jim followed the rules, always!
I have never met Jim’s family, but I am certain the things I learned about him on the golf course followed him in his personal life. My sympathy goes out to each of them because I am certain, from what I have gleaned from him as a person, he will be missed by all. May the spirit of God surround each of you and help you through this time of loss.
Two things I am going to do: I will give a donation to the Humane Society by Jim’s request, and I will never forget Jim as a friend I have lost. This may be something the league members should consider.
SECOND
The league is winding down to the last two weeks. The three people in the final group are as follows:
NamePoints
Charlie Curnutte5 8.0
Tom Copley 57.0
Troy Hughes5 6.5
With Jim’s death, the closest to these three players are Sam Sumpter and Bill England tied with 54 points. The consequence is that one of these three players in the first group will be league champion. The other consequence is that second and third place are not necessarily decided.
The annual banquet will be held on Tuesday, the day after Labor Day.
See you at the course on Tuesday, August 23.
Bill Jackson
Submitted, August 21, 2016
