AVOIDING big numbers is always a good strategy in a Medal competition and was one that many of the Dartmouth GC ladies were trying to follow this week when playing for the Norton Salver.

Some didn’t quite achieve that, with two players in separate groups managing to make a three on the par three third and then follow it with an eleven on the next hole - something of a blow so early in the round.

Although those at the top avoided the big numbers, the conditions were a little tricky following more heavy rain and nobody managed to finish below par. Shelley Durrans came closest, finishing just two over par with a Nett 76; Chris Mushens was second with 80 followed by Jules Vincent on 81.

The Dartmouth course ladies were playing a nine-hole Medal and having similar problems with big numbers - a ten on a par three is tough and it was commendable that the player concerned persevered. Barbara Dally was in first place with a Nett 38, followed by Sharon Jones on 40; in third place, Anna Blunt completed her first Medal round with a 42.

Good scores for the men’s Midweek Stableford reflected the more benign conditions.

New member Bruce Mackay was playing in his first competition and did it in style with 42 points, the best score of the day. Barrie O’Shea meanwhile was second in Division Two.

Andy Birss’ birdie two on the last game him the edge over Steve Maris in Division One, 42 points to 41.

Sadly, the weather caused the postponement of Saturday’s Barrett Cup, now rescheduled for August 24.