The course was in impeccable condition, and though the forecast had threatened mischief, the rain kindly held off until the very last group concluded their match in near darkness.

As is tradition, the OPs fortified themselves with a sumptuous lunch (and perhaps a little liquid encouragement), while the boys made do with their trusty packed lunches. Despite this dietary disparity, the competition was fierce yet thoroughly good-natured, epitomising the spirit of sportsmanship for which the event is renowned.

The OPs secured a narrow 3–2 victory overall, but not without drama. The College chalked up an early win thanks to Boyd Price and Alex Oliver, but the OPs fought back with two wins and a tie in the next three games. All eyes turned to the final group where Max Rowson was moonlighting for the OPs playing with the match organiser Charlie Parry against Master in Charge Heston Orchard and Tom Hoiles. The College team had led from the very first hole, but Charlie and Max mounted a determined comeback, narrowing the deficit to just one hole as they approached the 17th. In the gathering gloom, with tension high, Charlie coolly sank a nerve-wracking six-foot putt to level the match. By the time they reached the 18th tee, rain was falling steadily, and the light was all but gone. With visibility virtually nonexistent, both sides agreed to a hard-fought tie—a result that, unbeknownst to the four at the time, secured an overall victory for the OPs by the slimmest of margins.

Throughout, there was camaraderie in abundance, with the banter flying as freely as the drives off the tees. Both sides displayed tremendous skill and determination, proving that the game truly transcends generations.

The College extend their thanks to the OPs and in particular Charlie for organising the match and for their spirited play and to the Berkshire GC for hosting such a memorable encounter. Here’s to next year’s rematch – and maybe an even bigger lunch!

Match result:

1st pair:  Andy Wells & James Chapman V   Boyd Price  & Alex Oliver - College won 

 2nd pair: John Peters & Rory Copinger Symes   V   Henry Swatton & George Watson -  OP Win

3rd pair: William Skinner & Andy Cambell   V  George Milbank & Max Brittain   Tie

4th pair: Jaspar Fulford Dobson & Hugh Fraser  V  Rory Price & Charles Morley -   OP Win

5th pair: Charlie Parry &  Max Rowson     V    Heston Orchard & Tom Holies   - Tie  

Overall Result : OPs beat the College 3-2