Nailcote Hall – venue of the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship – was privileged to witness the gathering of 11 former Ryder Cup legends yesterday evening before the Players’ Banquet got into full swing.
The stars lining up were (left to right) Phillip Price, Oliver Wilson, Barry Lane, Tommy Horton, Ian Woosnam, tournament host Tony Jacklin, Costantino Rocca, Edoardo Molinari, Peter Baker, Paul Broadhurst from Champions of Golf, and Gordon Brand Jnr.
The Players’ Banquet was attended by all the professionals and amateurs who played on Wednesday as well as over 250 guests. Before a stunning three-course meal was served, there was a fascinating question-and-answer session with Tony Jacklin, Paul Broadhurst and Michael Campbell.
After the meal, the tenor Hercules Smith – represented by Champions (UK) plc – entertained the guests in a stellar performance that included sharing the stage for a couple of songs with the classically trained Faith Tucker (also a Champions star) who lends herself to pop and opera as well as classical music.
Following the entertainment, guests took part in a charity auction led by former gold medal winning athlete Derek Redmond and a substantial amount was raised for the children and young people’s charity Rainbows. The auction prizes included luxury trips to Barbados and Florida as well as a golfing holiday in Las Colinas in Spain.
Finally, the evening ended with an uproarious performance by Bobby Davro who had the entire room in stitches.
You can check how other golfing legends are doing in the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship with live updates on www.britishpar3.com and on Twitter with @BritishPar3.
