DEVON GOLF
DEVON BOYS v CORNWALL
The annual curtain-raiser between Devon and Cornwall Boys delivered another fiercely contested chapter as the two counties went head-to-head in their traditional early-season friendly — this time at Weston-super-Mare.
What began as a pre-season warm-up has quickly evolved into a meaningful fixture on the calendar. Following last year’s clash at Perranporth — host venue of the South West Boys' Championships — Devon’s Paul Cloke and Cornwall’s Simon Wood proposed a fitting tradition: each year’s friendly would be staged at the club set to host July’s Championship.
This year, that honour fell to Weston-super-Mare — and the Somerset venue proved a worthy stage.
Representing Devon and their clubs were Harry Lee (Churston), Jake Sevran-Smalley (Dartmouth), Josh Murphy (Exeter), Josh Lane (Honiton), Harry Cann, Archer Johnson, George Cann (Saunton), Archie Griffiths (Sidmouth), Joe Aldous, Luke Moulder (Staddon Heights), Brook-Tyler Mitchelmore, Ben Cogavin (Stover), George Inch, Aiden Mulligan, Will Hoskin (Thurlestone), Xander Rickford (Tiverton), Jack Thorpe (Woodbury Park), Zach Parker & Mason Seward (Yelverton).
Devon's Joe Aldous & Josh Murphy Bottom: Luke Moulder, Brook-Tyler Mitchelmore, Edward Walters & Owen Loton
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Bottom: Devon's Josh Lane, Ben Cogavin, Ryan Toner & Ethan Kinski
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& Bobby Godfrey & Harrison Gurd Bottom: Devon's Harry Cann, Archie Griffiths, Alfie Chapman & Joab Atkins
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& Devon's Archer Johnson, & Jake Sevran-Smalley Bottom: Devon's George Inch, Jack Thorpe, Harry Jollif & Luke O'Hanlon
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Narrow Victory in High-Quality Contest
The format was a 12-a-side scratch Stableford, with the best 10 scores from each team counting toward the final tally. With pride and early-season momentum at stake, both sides rose to the occasion.
In the end, it was Devon who edged the battle — 315 points to Cornwall’s 311 — sealing a narrow 4-point victory in a contest that remained in the balance until the final cards were signed.
The scoring reflected the quality across both teams, with consistency proving decisive under the “best 10 from 12” format. Devon’s depth ultimately made the difference, but Cornwall pushed them all the way in a competitive and sporting encounter.
A Club Effort Amid Challenging Conditions
Recent weeks of relentless rain threatened to derail preparations, yet Weston’s course stood up superbly. Credit must go to the host club for presenting the course in exceptional condition — no small feat given the weather. The greens, in particular, drew praise from both camps. True and consistent, they offered a genuine test and demanded precision from tee to hole. For a venue preparing to host July’s South West Boys Championships, it was a statement of readiness.
More Than Just a Match
Beyond the scoreline, the day was marked by camaraderie and enthusiasm. Thanks to Weston’s hospitality, reserve players from both counties were also able to take part, adding to the competitive buzz and strengthening team bonds.
What may be labelled a “friendly” continues to feel anything but on the course — yet off it, the spirit of the game was clear. As both counties look ahead to the Championship later this year, this annual fixture once again proved its value: sharpening competitive edges while reinforcing the proud rivalry between Devon and Cornwall.
Devon may have taken the honours this time — but if this encounter was anything to go by, July promises even more drama.
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