The annual match against the RAFGS was again played at Denham Golf Club, on a day of changeable weather - dull and slightly damp in the morning, sunny intervals in the afternoon and a heavy downpour just as the last three groups were completing their rounds.
Anthony King led for the Aero but, with RAFGS Match Organiser Mark Foreman having to withdraw from the event at the last minute, Nigel Dowdall took his place in managing the RAFGS team. The interest in the match was such that entries exceeded the 12 available places for both teams, but fortunately the club were able to offer us an additional tee-time allowing us to select teams of 14-a-side.
The start of the morning round was a little confused, largely due to some players not having seen the most recent version of the start sheet - herding cats anyone?. In the end this was resolved with seven matches teeing off on time, albeit not necessarily with the intended pairings or in the intended batting order. There was a certain symmetry to the results, with the Aero winning all of the odd numbered matches and the RAFGS winning the even numbered matches - fortunately from an Aero perspective this meant an Aero win by 4-3.
Following the usual superb Denham lunch, both teams set out for the afternoon Greensomes over the back 9 holes. The RAF team were clearly invigorated by the lunchtime food and drinks, winning 4 matches and halving the other 3, for an overall winning margin of 5 1/2-1 1/2.
Once everyone was back in the clubhouse, there was just time for the presentation of the Keith Davies Cup to winning Aero Captain, Anthony King, before everyone headed home after a very enjoyable day. Mark Foreman wasn't able to arrange for the Piercey John Quaich to be available for presentation, but will return it to the engraver to be updated following the RAFGS victory. Next year's match will again be at Denham, on 14 April 2026.