On Sunday 28th September, eight of our strongest senior county women headed north to compete in the Midland Senior Women’s Team Championships. Arriving at Trentham Golf Club we were welcomed by clear skies and very helpful staff / club members. All players made good use of the practice round to note sight lines, club selection and discuss on course strategy. Having completed our match preparations, thoughts turned towards Team Europe and the Ryder Cup. Having checked-in at the hotel in record time we managed to secure an alcove at the local Harvester to witness events unfold in Bethpage.
Fresh off the back of Team Europe’s win, we were determined to keep the flag flying for ‘Team Blue’. With MSWGA bringing in a change of format this year, the competition was set for two days of betterball medal play. Each team of four worked in pairs, switching partners from day one to day two. On the whole, player response to this new structure has been positive, embracing the increased emphasis on team cohesion.
Despite the heavy rain Trentham experienced the previous day, the course was presented well, although, being wet underfoot and muddy in patches, it was playing very long. A good test of golf, requiring player’s full attention in order to score well. Thankfully the weather held fair and we were able to enjoy the challenge.
Overall Team Results : Northamptonshire in the Prizes!
On home turf, Staffordshire were out in force fielding three teams. Staffordshire 1’s continued their dominance over recent years winning the overall Gross event whilst Lincolnshire 1’s secured the Nett trophy. Runners Up were Leicestershire 1’s - Gross and Derbyshire 1’s - Nett. Both Northamptonshire teams put together creditable rounds of golf over the two days. With 17 teams taking part, Northamptonshire 1’s (Suzanne Wright; Louise Harte; Emma Bazeley; Anna Heaver) finished 8th - Gross and Northamptonshire 2’s (Alison Irvine; Linda Sherry; Annie Goodchild; Charlie Astbury) placed 8th - Nett. The Northamptonshire pairing of Lou Harte and Anna Heaver achieved the ‘Best Nett’ result on Day 2 - Congratulations !
Although 8 of us turned out to play, we cannot overlook the added contribution of squad members : Sue O’Hagan, Gill Snelson and Mouse Milner. Thanks also go to Kathryn Stronach, Carol Gibbs, Catherine Tildesley and the NGL for facilitating our participation in this event. Looking ahead to 2026, team camaraderie is strong. Building on our competitive spirit, there is a real ambition amongst players to improve both individual and collective performance.
Anna Heaver Team Co-ordinator
