THE toughest competition in Lyme's calendar 36 holes, was played on the hottest day of the year.

It should have been the day for the youngest to thrive. Instead the winner was the oldest competitor, age 74.

Gerry Meridith, playing off 12, set the pace in the morning with a net 79.

One of the few to equal that was his playing partner John Culpan.

In the afternoon, the lead swung either way before the pair were equal going on the 18th tee.

John drove first, playing safe with an iron. Gerry ignored the hint, took out his driver and sent the ball down the sun-packed fairway on the left side in perfect position for the flag on the right of the green. His chip to the flag was strong going 12 feet past.

"I knew this was my big moment," said ice-cool Gerry, "John was set for a par four, I had to have a birdie. I gave the putt plenty of study and in it went."

Gerry's 81(12)69 equalled his morning round and earned him the coveted Wellings Bowl with a total of 138.

In third place was John Gait one shot behind.

The Williams Bowl for the best gross score was won with an immaculate performance from the club's number one golfer Roger Seed with a total of 144, five shots less than Wayne Bowell, 149, and Mike Mudford 152.