IMAGINE: It's the first golf competition of the year. You're one of people reponsible for its smooth running. Your nerves are jangling.

You step up to the fifth tee -and what do you do? Hit a hole in one.

That how Sherdley Park GC Ladies secretary Mel Bloor welcomed the new season.

The hole is a par three, 176 yards.

Said Mel: "The green was out of play at the end of last season while the greenkeepers worked on it and I believe it was only the second day the new green had been in play.

"I have to say that it wasn't a "fluky" shot that had a lucky bounce. It seemed to be the perfect speed, direction and distance, and I actually saw the ball role into the hole. It was like a dream watching the ball's progress. I expected it to stop a couple of inches short or hit the pin and ricochet off."

But the dream start wasn't enough to get the 19-handicapper into the April Medal psositions.

Winner was Rita Warbrick (104-30-74), second Carolyn Smith (102-26-76), and third Dot Follis (101-21-80).