Season Launch – East Kent Triumphs at Cherry Lodge Golf Club
The annual interprovincial golf match between the East Kent Masonic Golf Association and the West Kent Masonic Golf Association for the prestigious Kent Silver Salver took place at Cherry Lodge Golf Club, near Sevenoaks, with an excellent turnout of 42 players.
The day began in remarkable fashion with the East Kent AGM, which was completed in a record-breaking 5 minutes and 20 seconds—surely setting a benchmark for efficiency in Masonic golfing circles. During the meeting, Bro Paul Ames was duly elected as Captain, with Julian Friel appointed as Vice-Captain. In a moment of good humour, Paul McGuirk was unanimously “re-elected” as Secretary, a light-hearted nod to his administrative mishaps during the 2025 season.
Proceeding to the course, the traditional Captain’s Drive-In saw Paul Ames take to the tee, followed by Vice Captain Julian Friel, and then West Kent Captain Ravi Patel, marking the official start of the competition.
Video below is Paul Ames taking his shot.
The event featured an individual Stableford competition alongside the main team contest for the Kent Silver Salver, decided across nine matches. East Kent delivered a strong performance, securing victory in six of the nine games, leaving West Kent with three wins and confirming East Kent as deserving winners of the Salver.
In the individual competition, Paul Routley (East Kent) produced an outstanding round to take first place with an impressive 40 points. Geoff Ellis claimed second place with 38 points, narrowly edging out Brian Ball, who also scored 38 but lost on countback.
A special mention goes to Phil Hughes of Royal Navy Lodge 429 (East Kent), who was awarded the prize for the “Longest Walk,” adding a touch of humour to an already enjoyable day.
Overall, the event was a great success, combining competitive golf, camaraderie, and good-natured banter—hallmarks of Masonic sport. Congratulations to all participants, and especially to East Kent on their well-earned victory.
Group Photos
Paul Ames East Kent Captain and Ravi Patel West Kent Captain.
West Kent Golfers with Paul McGuirk far Right
