Hopefully, that is, the sun does shine brightly and conditions are at their best for this event that certainly separates the men from the boys (so to speak).

Yes, 42 holes of stroke play will decide that suggested claim, albeit that all the contestants for both the A and B-grade titles are in the widespread age bracket of 55 to 92.

No boys, only gentlemen in this lot is one's reckoning.

Today's opening round, to be played with the front nine dominating, gets underway at 9.30am, with reigning respective champions Graheme Martin and Graham Schasser aiming for hat-tricks.

Martin, a five marker, has done it easy in those recent years, however he faces a real challenge by rather new members Ian Rudd and Hillary Dew this occasion.

Rudd is the Club's lowest handicapper on four with Dew also on five and interest abounds even prior to tee-off.

It was a toss of the coin that gave Schasser victory over Max Gleeson last year and this Hat Head "leftie", who plays out of the Sandy Flat Club's course, gives an assurance he won't repeat his final round collapse this time.

There is many a chance in 15-28 handicap measure who are ready to stake a claim, but survival from start to finish is their major concern. Another hazzard, eh!

With last Tuesday washed out, the usual Kempsey Heights Bowling Club-sponsored Monthly Medal is a rider for today's 14-hole stroke round.

All or any visitors are invited to be part of today's competition and a phone call to the Club on 65626291 to talk to our starter, Brody (Clarke) prior to 9.15am is advisable.

Every week the Kempsey Golf Club encourages for people to give the game of golf a try and to join in on the weekly fun by participating in the golf events at the club