Our final dinner and trophy presentations took place at the Guinness Storehouse. An icon in Ireland, the Guinness Factory seemed a perfect conclusion to a wonderful tour. As Dean arrived in the coach to collect us for the final time, he was met with traffic chaos and parking difficulties due to the Adam Sandler movie premiere next door. The red carpet was rolled out for Adam Sandler, Rob Schneider, Kevin James, David Spade, Chris Rock and Salma Hayek. After some frustrated discussions with the local constabulary, we headed off to the final destination. It was here that the group farewelled Dean, who had been outstanding in his ability to get us around safely, on time, and in great spirits. Thanks Dean, we really value your contribution.
Upon arrival at Guinness, we realised that the "famous" people were stalking us. First it was the Queen, then Graeme McDowell, now half of Hollywood. The "blue'" carpet at Guinness was not for us, but for the movie premiere afterparty. needless to say some of us were quite keen to get a look at that. This meant that the top levels of the storehouse were closed down, and restricted our ability to tour around. As we entered our private room, we were greeted by thomas, who was there to teach us how to pour the perfect Pint. Everyone who attempted this, did very well, and it was good to see some of the girls get involved.
We had a quick look around downstairs prior to getting ready for our entrees.
We enjoyed a brilliant meal, of which the dishes carried a Guinness flavour. The quality of the meal was outstanding, and the service was great.
On to the trophies. Our "Eveready" award went to Mr Eveready himself, Laurie Ryan. Laurie played all additional rounds along with wife Anne, but was always the first to be up for something else. Either out for dinner, or off to the pub for a drink. We thought this to be pretty impressive for a 73 year old bloke, put us younger ones to shame.
The "Change of Currency" award went to David Hill. This award was based on the biggest improver once landing on Irish soil, or where the currency changed. (currency changed toward the end of the Irish leg) David seemed to like the Guinness enhanced air, improving by around 60 stableford points.
Our Irish leg was takn out by Graeme Hiscock. Graeme played consistently once on Irish soil, taking this title narrowly on 174 points.
Rae "The dark horse" Biggart was our overall runner up. Rae but together a very consistent all around tour, and fought out the title in the final group today.
Rae's efforts were not quite enough to eclipse "The Bisector" Geoff Vincent. Geoff either played to or beat his home handicap on 6 of the 9 included rounds. A feat that is very impressive as a first time tourist. A master of the 180 straightey, the bisector earned his nick name with his fairway finding prowess. From what I have heard, he was looking for a lesson after one of his drives nearly missed a fairway at County Down. Great effort Geoff, well done.THANKYOU EVERYONE.
We had an absolutely wonderful time, and have strengthened friendships with many people. We all have special memories that we take away from our time here.
Thanks to the participants: Laurie & Anne Ryan, Jeff & Nola Faure, Alan & Lorraine Mance, Ian & Debbie Gutteridge, Rae Biggart & Libby McCann, Geoff Vincent, Patrick Carlisle, Graeme Hiscock, Michael Merrett, Tony McLean, David Hill, Katryna Economou & Coralie Cazaly.
To Matt Cleverdon for soldiering on whilst I was injured.
To Dean Barber for an outstanding job as driver, and companion.
To Greg Gilson for all your work in organising the tour.
And to all followers of the blog, I hope you got some enjoyment out of tracking our travels.
We look forward now to taking on the US Masters in 2011.
Goodbye. Justin.
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