A Chester golfer has spoken of his relief at avoiding serious injury after being struck twice in the space of an hour by competitors’ balls at The Open Championship at the weekend.
Bill Davies, 74, who is president of Vicars Cross Golf Club, was marshalling the 16th hole at the Royal Liverpool course in Hoylake last Thursday when he was floored after American Rickie Fowler’s drive hit him on the thigh.
After receiving some medical attention and taking a few minutes away from the green to compose himself, unlucky Bill was struck on the shoulder just minutes later, this time by South African Charl Schwartzel.
Both players stopped to chat with Bill, who also marshalled when The Open was last at the Hoylake course back in 2006, with both apologising before presenting him with signed balls as a memento. Schwartzel even added ‘Sorry!’ after his signature.
“In my 50 years playing golf, I have never been hit by a ball, not once,” said Bill, who lives in Guilden Sutton.
“I was quite fortunate not to have a bad injury as it hit me above my knee and on my thigh. It’s sore and a bit bruised but it was just one of those things.
“I hit the floor and was in a bit of pain initially. Rickie (Fowler) then came over with his caddy and had a chat and just wanted to see if I was okay and to apologise.”
Bill, who also marshalled at the Ricoh Women’s British Open at the same course in 2012, made his way back to the 16th green after a short break, only to be centre of attention once more 20 minutes later when Schwartzel’s wayward drive bounced and clipped him on the shoulder.
Bill added: “It was unbelievable really as I had not long been back in position because I had felt a little bit sick, so I had a drink of water and went back to my position.
“About 20 minutes later, Schwartzel’s ball hit me straight on the shoulder. I couldn’t believe it.
“I thought after that they would put me in the stand or something, but I stayed where I was. The crowds around the green were saying to me ‘do you think you can make it three?’
“He (Schwartzel) also came over and said sorry and signed a ball for me. They were both very apologetic and very nice about it all.
“It was a fantastic tournament this year and I really enjoyed it. The whole thing made it even more memorable for me. To have two signed golf balls from two golfing superstars and to be able to have a chat with them was very special indeed.”