CASS the family could be the new game at Fulford Golf Club, whose members are revelling in an historic chip off the old block.

Just over a dozen years after Richard Cass swung into one-hole folklore at the Heslington-based club, his seven-year-old son James has followed in stunning, single-shot suit.

Cass the younger astounded the elder when the mighty tot totalled a hole in one at the par-three 14th hole. Albeit off the ladies' tees, the seven-year-old's drive with his new Christmas gift clubs still negotiated the full 100 yards in a one-wonder orbit.

James' feat also equalled the number of his father's own ace accomplishments in 18 years of playing the game. Cass senior bagged his hole in one in 1992 when he became the first man to ace a par-four hole at Fulford, where the former York Union of Golf Clubs' player drove the 16th for an amazing albatross.

Said Cass: "I was aged 22 then and it's the only hole in one I've ever had, while James has achieved the feat still three weeks short of his eighth birthday."

He revealed how his son, who is also a goal-scoring striker with the Osbaldwick Knights football team each Sunday, has been playing golf for the past year.

Such has been his meteoric progress that he has been excelling at Fulford's Professional Golfers' Association junior training scheme for the past three months as the youngest player. The youngster, who attends Badger Hill Primary School, is presently practising for his bronze award with silver and gold to follow.

And even better. His pocket money did not have to stretch to buying everyone in the clubhouse a drink as is the time-honoured custom. Papa Cass shelled out instead. Now that's the way to do it.

Appeal's net gain

THE Tsunami Disaster Appeal has been boosted by more than £2,500 via the generosity of York golf clubs.

Forest of Galtres Golf Club members raised £1,430 from their team competition in aid of the appeal. The winners with 107 points were Terry Nicholson, Mike Robinson, David Hough and Andy Hough.

A total of £1,105 was realised from Fulford GC at their New Year's Eve function and fourball stableford tournament. The winners were husband and wife Jim and Pam Clancey and their partners, David Cooper and Pat Cooper respectively in the men's and women's events.

Updated: 10:59 Saturday, January 29, 2005