On Saturday 2th March we had Norwegian day. A total of 84 players took part. Many volunteers have participated in preparing and running the day. The weather was alternating with sometimes strong wind, light rain, but also sun - just like a normal Norwegian summer day.
At the 8th tee, samples of typical Norwegian food were served, as well as a small glass of aquavit or other drinks. The players seemed to appreciate this.
Afterwards there was a gathering with prize distribution in the clubhouse. The prizes also had a Norwegian feel, with a large side of smoked salmon for each of the winners. The prizes were given by Norwegian members of the club, many thanks to them. Unfortunately, the winners had left the clubhouse when the prizes were awarded, this also applied to those who finished second and third. The ceremony can never be the same when the winners are not present and receiving the prizes.
But it was a successful day with lots of smiles and laughter.

There was also a presentation to Eddie Kassner our Competition Secretary, well deserved for all his hard work.

The walk set off from Carlos's restaurant, Praia Grande, Pera and took in part of the boardwalk and around the nature reserve, for those twitchers there are viewing points across Lagoa dos Salgados . The walk was 9km, for those that would just like a gentle stroll it was possible to do the boardwalk only and meet at the restaurant for lunch. Non-Walkers are also welcome to join us for lunch.

On Saturday 27th of January we handed out 52 prizes to all the winners and runners up in 2023. We were lucky with good weather, and a lot of the members waited by the club house for the prize ceremony. Pestana offered us a half pizza and a beer or glass of wine for €10, and many members seemed to appreciate it, myself included.
Here is the list of winners and runner ups. Congratulations to all of you.

The Clubs latest beautiful walk was along the boardwalk at Alvor and then along the river. It was an amazing walk followed by a meal at the Lyric in Alvor, who closed the restaurant to the public and made it an exclusive experience for us,

The staff were amazing, the food and attention they provided was excellent, definitely one to go back to!

Thanks to Alison and Keith Scott for their organisation.

photos:

What a wonderful night we had at the Penina Golf Resort on Sunday the 10th of December.
After the pre dinner drinks were served in the Bar we all ventured through to the dining room were an excellent buffet was on offer.
70 members and guests were waited on by very attentive staff and the wine flowed liberally.
As the coffee was being served The President and the Captain stood up to present the Christmas Hampers that had beautifully prepared by Julia Hall and Merja Ronkko.
Finally two of the 5Ex band Tiago and Paulo brought us all onto the dance floor with some great music and a record dedicated to Marja Chapman (Yesterday by the Beatles).
Thanks must also go to Alison Scott for collecting in the cash for the event and Jan Bell for taking round the tip box for the staff.
The Hampers were awarded to:-

A team from SdM played in the annual finals and presentation day at Amendoeira recently. The team were presented with the Trophy for winning Division Three after a terrific season.

SdM played 12 matches throughout the year and were represented by many members, we should thank our Captain Per Lars Tonstad and Vice Captain Dave Darling for all their hard work during this time, it's a very difficult job selecting a team of ten when double that want to play. The club should be very proud of it's performance both on the course and off it, we have a great reputation for both competitiveness and sportsmanship.

We will be having fixtures next season against Penina, Espiche, Boavista, Quinta do Lago, Pinheiros Altos and Vilamoura. Look out for the dates on the website in the New Year.