Thought For The Day – Monday 20th July 2026
The Love of The Game
“The best have won it. But no one is bigger than it. It is what it stands for in the game of Golf. The oldest Championship. The purest form of the game. Sunday at Golf’s original Championship. One that began in 1860, and that Scotland gave us. Golf’s oldest surviving prize in the claret jug. And it serves as a timely reminder that we are all just passing through. The Open is a transcendent Championship. It was here before us, and it will here be long after us. At best, you can hope to have your name etched into its storied history. And for the 11th time Royal Birkdale hosts. A venue synonymous with the very fabric of this Championship, where you must have all of the shots, the courage to play them, and strength of mind to do so today. This iconic links in the English seaside town of Southport waits to crown another Champion golfer.” (Nick Dougherty, “Sky Sports”.)
The 154th men’s Open Golf Championship, superbly won by Ryan Fox, from New Zealand, was particularly characterised, as well as by the many excellent volunteers and players, and a very appropriately challenging golf course, by the magnificent encouragement, and respect, for all players of all nationalities from the outstanding, generous, and gracious spectators in Southport.
In particular, the humble, “hometown hero” Tommy Fleetwood, from Southport, who won the Silver Medal at the Paris Olympics two years ago, once again representing his hometown with distinction, was appropriately, and wonderfully, roared on to a brilliant 4th place in the Championship. Mr. Fleetwood greatly appreciated the massive support he received, savouring such special memories, and moments, and living in the present.
Etiquette, integrity, and respect, on and off the course remains important in the sport, in all sport, and indeed in life.
As are commitment, aspiration, and community.
One of the most iconic images from the recent Wimbledon Tennis Championships was of the former legendary player, on and off the court, Rodger Federer, from Switzerland. Mr. Federer was one of the few who left watching in the “Royal Box” for guests, staying until the very end of play, late at night, to see the final match, wishing to respect and support all players.
As part of his Wimbledon visit, he also played Tennis on the practice courts.
The love of the game.
And so, we reach the final (half) week of the academic year of 2025 and 2026 at T.B.S.H.S..
We play our final rounds, and matches, of the academic season.
We finish with passion, spirit, and style.
Supporting one another.
