Steve Deeble - Doyen of Dagenham
Steve Deeble has been consumed by Pitch and Putt for many years but had been disheartened for some years by the situation at his local course. "I took over the Dagenham course two years ago. This course has been the home of our small Pitch and Putt number for 55 years and seeing the way in which it was being maintained and cared for was heartbreaking," laments Steve.
After consideration the Deebles, prompted by their patriarch, took the plunge. "Finally we decided to take it on ourselves. This really is a labour of love and all the work is done around a full time job so can be very demanding. But the compliments we get from players who say it's the best it's ever been makes it worth while." Steve is determined to maintain standards at the course at which two of his three sons, his grandson and grand-daughters all play. It continues a long tradition as Steve's own Dad, Ernest introduced hime to the sport many years ago, when the Dagenham course was a hive of activity. Steve would like to see more people playing nowadays and hopes that the hosting of the British Open will help.
The maintenance project hasn't been without its difficulties. "The main stumbling blocks have been having the right equipment, correct mowers and so on to make the maintenance manageable," explains Steve. "Over time we have managed to gather these and are now able to keep on top of things and make the course improvements and the changes I have planned and visioned. Our club members have been great and the course is in fantastic condition. It is now more like the courses we play internationally than ever before."
Steve Deeble is a veteran of five European championships and four World Cups but one senses few events have tickled the palate more than the forthcoming British Open at Dagenham. "To say I am looking forward to the first British Open is an understatement. Running this event and having players than I know and respect, friends from all over Europe play our course will be an amazing feeling. Yes, this will be a lot of work but this really is being done for the love of the game and will be an amazing weekend."
Albeit he will be very busy, Steve will be teeing it up in the tournament come August. "I have no doubt with all the work that goes into it, there will be some emotion that weekend and pride in what we have done. I'm intent on playing in the event and with our sponsors and volunteers I see this being possible. My hope is that the players will travel. Many have expressed interest and I really hope it can be a top competition."
What can visitors to the inaugural British Open expect? "Having been to many opens, Europeans and World Cups, I feel that we have the knowledge to make this weekend great," promises Steve. "The main thing is, it's about the players, to make sure everyone has their needs catered for. They get to have a great weekend with nothing to stress about. The whole year for me is revolving around this open. The course will be in top condition and as hosts we will do all we can for all the travelling guests."
Steve certainly doesn't rule out a home success. "Does a British player have a chance of winning? Try telling them they don't!" laughs the genial Dagenham course supremo.
