On 6th September 2026 Sand Moor GC hosted the MacKenzie Medallion as part of their centenary celebrations. Despite heavy morning showers the rain cleared just as play commenced and the 23 teams attending enjoyed a fine afternoon.
The course was in top condition despite the dry summer, having quickly recovered following the return of rain in August. Sand Moor is a superb, undulating, heathland links and the greens, many of classic MacKenzie design, were quick and true. Scoring proved difficult on the day but even those scoring lower than hoped for agreed the course is of the highest quality.
Back in the clubhouse Sand Moor President Niall Gunn welcomed attendees and, after a fine dinner of Lemon & Thyme Chicken followed by Cheesecake, presented to the prize winners announced by Society Committee member Iain MacInnes.
Best Lady was Camilla Dyson from Ilkley on 33 points, with best Gent Andy Speak from Halifax with 39 on CPO, narrowly beating Hadley Wood Club Captain Ben Booth.
Three teams were clear of the pack with home club Sand Moor (Shaun Joyce, Mathew Bates, Richard Frampton) finishing third on 71. Second, also on 71 but on 3rd card decider, were Halifax (Andy Speak, Chris Speak, Chris Bouckley) but serial winners Hadley Wood (Ben Booth, Jake Shepheard, Robert White) sneaked home on 72. Captain Ben thanked the hosts and the Society for a fantastic day and gave a heart-felt speech lauding the quality of his golf, which was raucously received.
Finally, the hosts for next year were announced as Oakdale GC (Harrogate) on Sunday 5th September 2027.
Our thanks go to the officers, staff and members of Sand Moor GC, whose organisation and hospitality made the day so memorable.
