My first trip was in 2005 having been invited by my sponsor Simmo. I hadn’t got a clue what he said but agreed to come along anyway. All I knew was it was “down Souff”. Thank you Simmo for making me part of all this and congratulations on winning the golf match last year in your final year as golf captain. How am I going to get in the team now?

On that trip I gave my all in every sport as requested. I loved the competitiveness and the new friendships that followed. Memories that last a lifetime.

All I ask of you is to give the same. I will endeavour (do I get a point for this?) to lead by example but remember to shake your opponents hand or give them a hug before you whip their a***. I want a winning trip Mals. Experience tells me that dinner and beer always taste better after a win.

Stick together and if you’re not playing please make sure you come and support those that are and not just go to the pub. (I said I would give Eddie a mention.) It really does make a big difference to have the support.

With the number we have this year and one day less we have a busy schedule so please make sure you are where you need to be in a timely manner.

One final note of thanks and best wishes must go to our outgoing President Wilf Feely who can’t be with us this year due to illness. On behalf of the Mals I would like to thank Wilf for controlling his students last year. A fine job of leadership and a hard task to follow, despite doing my homework. Wishing you all the best Wilf.

Have a great trip everyone.