It’s All About One Particular Dave

Last year’s runner-up claims The David Trophy 2025

After 35 years of membership, David Hughes has finally claimed the big one — The David Trophy. And what a week it was: on February 12, he took out both the main competition and the Grandfathers Trophy with a huge 46 points. Four days after celebrating his 80th birthday, he backed it up on February 20 with 38 points to secure victory.

In his ninth decade, Dave showed the rest of us a clean pair of cleated heels — proof that “built-in obsolescence” doesn’t apply to every model! Along with his prizes, he now holds the David Lockwood Putter for the next 12 months, a 25-year-old Ping to be defended in 2026.

This year’s event once again supported NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia (formerly The Unicorn Foundation), in memory of David Lockwood, a beloved Manly Golf Club member who passed away from neuroendocrine carcinoma in 2018. The event raised over $1,000 for the charity, with sincere thanks to our generous sponsors: Drummond Golf Dee Why, Phil Baird and the Golf Shop, Dad & Dave’s Brewery, Cherry Tree Hill Wines, and Ian David Taylor.

Results:

🥇 David Hughes, Manly – 38 pts
🥈 David Gregory, Monash – 37 pts (winner of the Unicorn Trophy)
🥉 Dave Lorentz, The Lakes – 36 pts
🏅 Dave Kelly Jnr – Goliath Trophy (our version of the Bradman prize)

A special mention to Brenden Benad and his team for presenting the course in superb condition despite recent weather challenges. The Davids enjoyed perfect timing — not a drop of rain during play, though the heavens opened before and after.

Another memorable day for the Davids — blessed on the course, generous off it, and proving once again that age and weather are no match for good humour and great company. 

Sunshine, Spirit, and Support: The 2024 David Trophy

After a week of rain, the 2024 David Trophy teed off under perfect blue skies and 30-degree heat. Nineteen MGC Davids and four guest Davids took part, with brief distraction from a skywriter who nearly proclaimed love for a “David” — until the “D” became a “P.”

Despite the heat, spirits stayed high. Great shots, big putts, and even a stunning eagle from David Senior (handicap 7) on the 9th kept things lively. But it was David Walker who stole the show, cruising to victory with 42 Stableford points, six clear of the field. He credited coach Dave Saunders for the form — praise gladly accepted. Runners-up were David Hughes and David Spears, both on 36 points.

Generous prizes came from David Golf, Drummond Golf Dee Why, and Phil Baird. The Goliath Trophy (worst back nine) and a consolatory Manly Spirits gin went to David Catterick, courtesy of David Ower.

The day raised $850 for NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia, in memory of David Lockwood, who passed away in 2018. His wife Katherine Staunton and son Sandy joined the presentation, with Katherine sharing touching memories and championing awareness of this underfunded cancer.

Finally, organiser David Spears is still awaiting challenges from the Johns or Michaels of MGC—and perhaps a “J-Team” from the ladies. All in the name of fun, fellowship, and a very good cause.

The Second Annual David Trophy at Manly Golf Club

The second annual David Trophy took place in late February at Manly Golf Club, bringing together 30 Sydney Davids for a day of golf and fundraising in support of NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia.

Perfect weather and immaculate course conditions set the stage for a spirited competition. David Watkins claimed first place for the second consecutive year—an impressive feat made even more remarkable given he broke his wrist just eleven months ago. David Senior finished second, earning The Unicorn Trophy, while David Epper took home the Goliath Award (reserved for the player finishing last).

The event honours David Lockwood, a Manly Golf Club member and boating journalist who passed away from neuroendocrine carcinoma in 2018. His wife Katherine and children Summer and Sandy presented the trophies in his memory.

This year, the Davids raised $800 for NeuroEndocrine Cancer Australia. Organizer David Spears hopes to expand the event nationally, inviting golfing Davids everywhere to join future tournaments. 

The Inaugural David Trophy

On Thursday, 21 February, under grey but mostly dry skies, a spirited group of Manly Golf Club “Davids” teed off for the first-ever David Trophy. Despite a few late withdrawals, the field was strong and enthusiastic — and the scores reflected a mix of talent and good humour.

The idea was born when David Spears, chatting with a few fellow Davids (reportedly near the bar), suggested a friendly tournament. With unanimous agreement — and assurances that all Davids were indeed sociable, modest, and keen golfers — plans quickly took shape.

Support for the event grew further when a charity component was proposed. The group chose to honour David Lockwood, a much-loved club member who passed away last year from neuroendocrine carcinoma. His wife, Katherine Staunton, graciously endorsed the idea and suggested donations go to The Unicorn Foundation, which supports families and research into Neuroendocrine (NET) Cancers.

In tribute to David Lockwood, the Davids agreed that all future David Trophy events will continue to raise funds for the Unicorn Foundation.

Following the day’s success, the Davids have now thrown down the gauntlet — challenging other names at Manly Golf Club (Michael, John, Peter, Susan…?) and even other clubs to form their own teams for a Greater David Trophy.