The Balmore Senior Open Pairs was held today in remarkably benign weather with around 170 competitors taking part. We were delighted to receive a large number of complimentary comments on the fantastic condition of the course.

The winners of the D H Russell trophy were Mel Thorburn from Biggar and John Thorburn from Clydebank with a terrific stableford score of 49 points. In second place were Balmore members, Alastair Strachan and Brian Welch, with 44 points, beating James Findlay (East Kilbride) and Michael Ellison (Torrance House) on the basis of a better back 9.

Prize vouchers are as follows:

Mel & John - £75 each
Alastair & Brian - £50 each
James & Michael - £40 each
4th – Ian Dickie & Ronald Hamilton from Bellshill - 43 points - £30 each
5th – Graham McCrossan & Stephen McLuskey from Mearns Castle - 42 points - £25 each
6th – Kenny Scotland from Craigiehill & Martin Reid from St Andrews (41 points (BIH)) - £20 each
7th – Iain Scott & Ken Ring from Balmore - 41 points (BIH) - £15 each

Special prizewinner of the Balmore 4 ball (along with pre and post match refreshments) was Derek Dillon from Carluke GC.

Congratulations to all the prize winners and thanks to everyone for taking part. Special thanks to the greenstaff for the excellent condition of the course and to the clubhouse staff for keeping everyone well fed and watered.