The 2019 ESP Championship was again hosted by Catton Hall SG and, unlike previous years, where we had been treated with glorious weather, this year was the exception. It rained and rained and the wind and breeze did their bit to alter the direction during mid flight of the clays. The course of fourteen stands saw a great variety of speed and angles and a mixture of coloured clays. Those that set off early braving the worst of the weather donned their heavy duty clothing and as they returned, wet, soaking wet, dripping scorecards, which were thankfully the waterproof ones, it was obvious the scores were not going to break any barriers.  Mark Oakley, John Shreeve and Ian Cunliffe putting in a 78, 77 and 76 respectively. Ladies Kerry Oakley with a 76. Amazingly though a score of 90 was posted in the horrendous weather by Mike Holland who shot round with the recoil pad of his gun having come lose and so he took it completely off, perhaps this is the way forwards for you Mike.

The weather eased off towards the latter part of the day which saw the arrival of a few more entrants taking the Cheshire total to thirty three on the day. The scores were close to the already in 90 but did not surpass it and with two scores on 89, Scott Barnett and Steve Randles a shoot-off revealed Scott to be the Seniors Champion. The Veteran Category saw Miles Machin take the title with an impressive score of 87.

 

Paul Ellis - ESP Manager.