Summer Salver / 2026

Shifnal isn't one of them.

The Society returned to Shifnal for this year's Summer Salver, and if Augusta National had a Midlands cousin with fewer azaleas and more bacon rolls, this would be it. Year after year it continues to set the standard, and after another immaculate day it's hard to argue against it being the finest course we've played in recent seasons.

The only real opponent on the day was the weather.

Temperatures soared from the first tee onwards, making it less of a round of golf and more of an endurance event. Umbrellas were replaced by sun cream, cold drinks became as valuable as birdies, and simply making it back to the clubhouse without melting felt like an achievement in itself.

Despite the conditions, scoring held up remarkably well.

Results

Leading the field was Peter Hart, who kept his cool better than anyone to claim the Summer Salver. A composed performance from start to finish earned him top spot and another trophy for the cabinet.

Runner-up honours went to Gary Griffiths, who stayed firmly in the hunt throughout the day. On another afternoon it might well have been enough, but Peter had just that little bit extra when it mattered.

Unfortunately, someone has to leave with the Frog.

This time the dubious honour belongs to Colin Robinson. Every Society member knows the Frog can arrive without warning. One loose swing becomes two, two become six, and before you know it you're accepting the badge with a smile that says, "There's always next month." The good news? History tells us today's Frog can quite easily become tomorrow's winner.

The Verdict

Another outstanding Society day at what is rapidly becoming our very own golfing cathedral. Shifnal once again proved why it's such a favourite—superb course conditions, glorious sunshine (perhaps a touch too glorious), and enough drama to keep the leaderboard interesting until the final cards were signed.

Congratulations to Peter Hart on lifting the Summer Salver and surviving one of the hottest rounds of the season. As for Colin... keep the Frog polished. Someone else will probably be wearing it next time.