12 players were within five shots of the lead after the morning round of this year's amateur. These are the words of all those who were in contention, and the back stories of others for whom late May is the highlight of their golfing year.

The 2013 Warwickshire Amateur - Shirley GC - Thursday 23rd May - Four shots back, on a blustery and sometime wet afternoon, was a challenge a top player will always like. They look at the number of players they have to pass, and see who they know will almost always play well under this sort of pressure. Maybe one time in five will they still win with their own odd error in a good round. Three times in five, if they produce their very best, they will win. Jamie Carney's 67 was just about the worst score he could have carded and it took him to his first Warwickshire Amateur title.

Pictured is Sam Dodds, the Defending Champion, during on the rare times he was in trouble when winning last year - that is after a disaster of a front nine which was then followed by 'Dynamo' type magic for his next. Sam is again favourite but for many of our best players, 2013 form hasn't yet shown itself.

To begin the 2nd Team League defence at the manicured Blackwell against a very strong Worcestershire side was always going to be enjoyable but formidable. Weather conditions were chilly but dry for the morning foursomes as Nick Jenkins and good pal Chris Laird lead Warwickshire away against the experienced pairing of Darren Smith & Matt Feavyour.

On a beautiful sunny day at Halesowen GC on Sunday 6th May 2013, the Boys' team beat Worcestershire by 8.5 to 6.5. This was a fantastic win, as Worcestershire are the current holders of the 4 Counties title.

Maxstoke GC - Sunday 21st April - The County Trials are played to allow any golfer from a Warwickshire golf club with a handicap of 4 and below to showcase their ability and talents with the hopeful intent of County 1st or 2nd team selection in the coming season and beyond.

North Warks GC - Sunday 28th April - Now one of the most popular open events of its kind in our County, The County Membership Scheme started a knock-out 'third' event this Winter, giving the opportunity for the best teams from the Jack Urry Cup and the Vice Presidents' Bowl a chance to compete against each other for a superb new trophy.