Devon mascots compete for golfing accolade

Mascots from across Devon have come together to compete in the county’s first ‘costumed golfing’ championship.

A dozen mascots took part in the inaugural tournament, held at Ladram Bay Holiday Park’s new Jurassic Adventure Golf course.

It was Woodlands’ Hero who triumphed, progressing through the group stage to beat Pickles the Parrot from Ladram Bay and Cavog of Kents Cavern in the final play-off held over three holes.

Each won their groups against the likes of Devon Air Ambulance’s Ambrose the Paramedic Bear, Buddy Bear from Crealy Adventure Park, Angus from World of Country Life, Ozzie the Otter from Ladram Bay, Grecian the Lion and Basil the Parrot from Exeter City, Pedro the Parrot from Paignton Zoo and Diggerland’s Duggy and Dotty.

“It was fantastic fun. I think some of them have been putting in lots of practice because we even had a hole in one from Angus!” said Ladram Bay Director Zoe House.

“We wanted to celebrate our new dinosaur-themed Jurassic Adventure Golf and what better way than a mascot tournament? Wimbledon, The Ashes and Ladram Bay Jurassic Golf Championship – all perfect summer sports!”

The striking nine-hole course at the park on the East Devon coast between Sidmouth and Budleigh Salterton, features carved rocks, a waterfall, fossils, sculptures of dinosaurs including a Triceratops and Velociraptor and ‘dug up’ dinosaur bones.

Alongside their putting skills, random challenges saw the mascots perform press ups, arm wrestling and dances to try and improve their final score.

Debbie Butler, Marketing Manager at World of Country Life in Exmouth, was there to support mascot Angus and help with scoring.

She said: “It was amazing fun. Rarely do you get so many mascots together in once place and they were certainly doing their best to win. It was all played in great spirits, the crowd loved it and we’ll definitely be back next year to challenge for the cup!”

The new course is part of a major redevelopment at the family-owned park. The swimming complex now includes a new indoor heated pool, children’s interactive play area, sauna, steam room, gym, sun terrace and café, whilst Pebbles Restaurant has also been refurbished, to make the most of the stunning sea views across the site’s private beach.