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The 2005 Bainbridge Shield Final - Maxstoke Park GC on Sunday 23rd October
Two perhaps unexpected teams will contest the 2005 Bainbridge Final over 36 holes, playing for quite probably the largest trophy in Warwickshire Golf. Representing Atherstone will be Paul Walker and the 'veteran' Phil Challis (more later) and from Copt Heath Paul Harben and David Fleet. How these two teams got to the final included 'doubles' and KOs of spectators.

Phil Challis has enjoyed the company of some very prestigious partners, notably a certain Paul Broadhurst, in past (and successful) years. He is playing with Walker for the first time and whilst there have been some close finishes on their way to the final, its a partnership which has a very solid look about it.

Nigel Rhodes has subbed in one round as Atherstone completed a 'double' over Handsworth including a 1up win in the final and three birdies in a row from the 15th at Atherstone for a 3&1 triumph in an earlier round.

The Copt Heath 'double' has been against Ladbrook Park, starting with an incredible three to win against Jack Sant and Fred Jewsbury, at Copt Heath. One up on the 18th tee, Harben then shanked his three iron lay-up under a bush from where Fleet somehow conjured a seven iron to 25ft, 20ft further away than the Ladbrook ball. Paul then duly made up for his error from the tee to slot home the birdie.

The next round and they took on one of the 'favorite' pairs, Rob Steele and Gareth Jenkins, around Kenilworth. A hatful of birdies from both teams but the winners were Harben and Fleet with one last birdie on the 19th. In the semi-final it was Messrs Andy Colley and Jones from Ladbrook and that went to the 19th where in near darkness around Copt Heath, a Fleet tee shot hit a Ladbrook supporter leaving Harben with a three wood to the green on the long par four. Harben hit a great shot onto the putting surface but the two Andy's conceded when they had played four shots and were still not looking at a putt.

So expect the final to go to the twilight hours after an 8.30 start and both teams are sure to bring in a crowd of supporters. The Winners will be reported on here around 7pm that night.

David Morgan on 2005-10-18