Pompano Beach, FL…August 11, 2017…Avenging an earlier defeat on their home field of Pompano Park, a quintet of Florida Amateur Driving Club members journeyed to the United Kingdom and got a bit of revenge, eking out a 45-43 decision over their British rivals in a hot contested–but friendly–competition.
The grand event was held, first, at the Tir Prince course in North Wales with the conclusion held over the Tany Castle turf course in Aberystwyth in North Wales.
The Brits jumped out to an early lead as England's Richard Haythornthwaite (victorious at Pompano Park earlier in the year) took the opener with Ireland's Chris O'Reilly second and the U.S.A.'s Dein Spriggs third.
With the American contingents "backs to the wall," Dennis Whittemore saved the day as he scored a hard fought, photo finish victory in the final.
After that event, Whittemore remarked, "Wow! Let me tell you that was the most thrilling victory I have ever had.
"There are some very serious challenges driving over a turf course–especially a wet one on a half mile track.
"I thought I'd have a go at it taking the lead early and that worked out very well. On the backside the final time, (Patrick (Morris) made that big move and he took a short lead but my horse had some fight left in him and we got to the wire first.
"Unforgettable is the only way to describe it!"
The event was organized by Britain's Lee Morris and Jaimie Davies, along with the U.S.A.'s Dein Spriggs and Jeff Schaefer.
Schaefer, Spriggs and Whittemore were to joined by Tony Dinges and Ron Cusimano to complete Team Florida.
Patrick Morris completed the roster of Brits competing.
Both Schaefer and Spriggs had high praise for their hosts, echoing each other about the hospitality enjoyed during their stay in the United Kingdom.
"The competition was fierce, yes," said Schaefer, "but we felt right at home with their warm and generous hospitality."
Spriggs said, "We are hoping that this type of competition will expand throughout the world as it seems to be a great 'shot in the arm' for our grand sport."
by John Berry for the Florida Amateur Driving Club