Local Charity Rowing Man Turns Golf Champ at Fulwell's Spring Meeting

Teddington resident Christopher Jones claimed a long-awaited victory last weekend, winning Fulwell Golf Club's Spring Meeting- held on Saturday 31 May and Sunday 1 June- at the tenth time of asking.

The prestigious two-day tournament saw Jones, 56, deliver a near-flawless opening round, posting an impressive net 66, and maintaining his form on day two with a net 71 to finish two shots clear of the field.

Chris' final approach shot onto the 18th in front of a packed clubhouse

A proud Welshman and a 4-handicap golfer, Chris first picked up a golf club at the age of 8, learning the game on the rugged coastal fairways of Penard Golf Club in South Wales. But despite a lifetime of experience, his moment of glory at Fulwell was almost derailed before it began — by a sore elbow sustained just days earlier during a gruelling charity row from Tenby to Cardiff.

"The emotions coming off the 18th were incredible," Chris exclusively told Teddington Nub News "I nearly missed the event completely due to a rowing injury from a charity challenge the weekend before."

Nicknamed the "Local Charity Rowing Man" by fellow members, Chris's determination to play — and win — made the moment even sweeter.

Chris lifting his trophy

His playing partners were quick to praise the performance.

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Close friend Rob Owen said:

"After an unbelievable start — three birdies and an eagle in the first five holes — we knew he had a real chance. He was simply untouchable."

Vinny Roper, another playing partner, added:

"It was exhibition golf and a delight to watch… although I didn't enjoy losing a tenner to him!"

One of the most popular members at Fulwell Golf Club, Chris had a sizable crowd willing him over the line. Club captain Paul Barrett was one of the competitors who stayed around to see Chris in said "this is simply a victory for the common man, Chris is a constant presence around the golf club and a real peoples champion'