Hambro triumph For Rookery Park

On a thankfully cooler day than we’ve become used to this summer, the final of the Hambro Cup was hosted by 2023 champions Bungay & Waveney Valley. 

This year’s contest brought together two standout teams—Thorpeness and Rookery Park—both impressive on their route to the final.

From the first tee, the match had all the hallmarks of a classic.  The opening exchanges were cagey, with both teams showing early nerves and flashes of brilliance.  At lunch, the scoreline was finely balanced, with Rookery Park holding a 4-hole advantage—a margin that gave them confidence, but not comfort.

As the players made the turn in the afternoon session, the pressure mounted and the calculators came out.  With the Hambro Cup decided on aggregate holes, every shot counted.

But as the final stretch approached, Rookery Park found another gear.  Their composure shone through as they began to pull away.  In the end, they extended their lead by 6 holes, sealing a commanding 10-hole victory—bringing the Hambro Cup back to Rookery Park for the first time since 1977.

The prize presentation took place shortly after the final putt in the clubhouse.  SGU President Charlie Wilderspin oversaw proceedings with his usual warmth.

Thorpeness captain James Tilbrook graciously addressed the room, thanking his team for a strong season and acknowledging the quality of the opposition.  He also shared the sad news of a serious illness affecting one of his team members, which cast a sombre note over the day.  The thoughts and best wishes of the Suffolk golfing community go out to Sam and his family.

Rookery Park captain Ian Howlett then stepped forward to accept the Hambro Cup from the President. Clearly emotional, he reflected on past disappointments—particularly semi-final heartbreaks—and spoke of what the win meant to his club, noting that it had been 47 long years since their last victory.