Once again, intrepid UKMHA members and their guests gathered at the ever-impressive Warwickshire Golf Club in Leek Wootton, ready to test their skills against the challenges and hazards of the spectacular Kings Course.
Fortunately, the weather played its part, offering ideal golfing conditions and setting the tone for a thoroughly enjoyable day. The Kings Course, an American-style parkland layout designed by Karl Litten, certainly lived up to its reputation. Opened in 1994, it is widely recognised for its generous fairways, subtly undulating greens, and strategically placed water hazards that demand both precision and nerve. Having hosted prestigious events such as the European Seniors Tour and the Midland PGA Final, it provided a fitting stage for our annual competition.
Playing at 6,535 yards from the yellow tees, this par 72 course offered something for golfers of all abilities. The opening hole, a demanding dogleg par 4 flanked by rough on both sides, immediately set pulses racing and ensured there were few easy starts to the round.
As the day progressed, certain holes stood out. The eighth, a picturesque but punishing par three played over water, proved particularly challenging, claiming more than its fair share of wayward shots. However, it also delivered one of the day’s standout moments: James Surridge of Warehouse & Logistics News produced an outstanding shot, placing his ball to within three feet of the pin to secure the coveted ‘Nearest the Pin’ prize.
The tenth hole, with its wide and inviting fairway, hosted the ‘Longest Drive’ competition. Despite the more forgiving layout, the competitive spirit was anything but relaxed, with the lead changing hands several times throughout the day. In the end, Rachel Cairns of Scottish forklift dealer Ailsa Forklifts edged out the competition in dramatic fashion, claiming victory by the narrowest of margins — just a foot.
The round concluded on the demanding 18th, a formidable 541-yard par four that provided a fitting finale. By the time our 52 golfers left the course, there was no shortage of stories to share, ranging from missed putts and wayward drives to well-earned birdies and memorable shots. Above all, the overwhelming feeling was one of camaraderie, enjoyment, and pride in being part of another successful UKMHA Golf Day.
Scoring for both the individual and team competitions was expertly overseen by the Warwickshire’s golf professional, Oli Foster. After careful calculation and more than one countback the results were confirmed:
Team Competition
1st Place (99 points): Pramac Jason McNally, CCE Andrew Hobson, Mark Baker, Karl Smejko
Runner-up (89 points): Ailsa Forklifts Brendan Cairns, Derek Love, Rachel Cairns, Close Brothers Andrew Woodward
Third Place (88 points): Rushlift Tom Welland, Paul Morley, Adam Starkey, Steve Briscall
Individual Competition
1st Place (45 points): Mark Baker
Runner-up (42 points): Sam Talbot
Third Place (41 points): Tom Naylor
The day concluded in fitting style with drinks on the terrace, followed by a delightful meal and a heartfelt thank you to all who took part and helped make the event such a success.
We are already looking ahead to the return of the UKMHA Golf Day in 2027, with further details to be announced in due course. In the meantime, if you would like to register your interest, please contact Nanette Woodman at Nanette.woodman@ukmha.org.uk.
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