28 Years of Hillcrest Golf Society, York
Origins & Aims
The concept of a 'Hillcrest Golf Society' was discussed between Ken Mackay and Trevor Jones on 27th December 1995 at 35 Hillcrest Avenue. Peter Yates was also present, but declined to join as he was already a member of the Fox Inn Golf Society. The first meeting of potential members, to discuss the way forward, was held at 33 Hillcrest Avenue on 28th February 1996. Those present were: Ken Mackay, Trevor Jones, Mark Wray, John Pollock, Alan Hunter, Keith Nicholson, Hugh Fowles and Roger Plows. John Brown was in Australia.
Each originating Hillcrest Avenue resident was then asked to invite a guest to get involved, and the new society was born with the first HGS Golf Day being held at Kirkbymoorside on 3rd May 1996. Mark Wray hit the first shot at the par 3 1st hole (suffice to say it wasn't a hole-in-one!). In recent times the non-Hillcrest Avenue members have increased to the point where they significantly out-number the residents.
HGS aims to provide a small number of golf days each year for its members at varied locations within 50 miles/an hour of York in a friendly, sociable atmosphere. We have gradually introduced golf weekends, initially in the UK, but then in 2006 we ventured further a-field to Portugal. Competition is fierce for the notoriously high-quality trophies. We also hold a number of social events, including an HGS Christmas dinner every year, and the occasional summer barbecue.
The First 28 Years History of Members, Venues & Photographic Memories
The following statistics and memories of the first 28 years of HGS were compiled (initially at the end of 2015 for the 20th anniversary) from original HGS records, engraved cups and photo albums. Many thanks to Maurice Jones, Trevor Jones, Mark Wray and Darren Priest for their help in pulling this together:
28-Year Membership 28-year Venues Played 28-year Trophy Winners Memorable Photos
HGS Committee Legends
Our President for the first 10 years, Ken Mackay, stepped down at the end of 2005, with Keith Rushby taking over the reins. Mark Wray became our 3rd President at the end of 2010. Our first Treasurer, Trevor Jones, passed the role to Maurice Jones at the end of 2009.
Mark and Maurice are supported by several other committee members, including Ken Mackay, Keith Nicholson, Darren Priest, Nigel Cooper and Peter Bollands.
HGS’s continued success depends entirely upon the dedication of the committee and the active support of the members. More member helpers are always welcome!
(1st HGS President, 1996-2005) (1st HGS Treasurer, 1996-2009) (2nd HGS President, 2006-2010)