Saturday 9 May 2026 saw the Old Silhillians team of Tom Shiels (Shenstone 1998-2009) & Oliver West (Shenstone 1992–2002), James Hetherington (Pole 1991 - 2002) & Patrick Skakel (Windsor 2002-2010), and Liam Mingo (Fetherston 2010-2019) & Ben Whitfield (Windsor 2011-2022) head to Olton Golf Club for the Grafton Morrish Midlands regional qualifier.

After reaching the quarter finals in October 2025, the team arrived feeling positive, looking to extend an impressive run of 16 consecutive years of qualification.

With 14 schools competing for just six places, the challenge was significant. However, the team made a strong start, with Tom and Oliver setting the pace with a level-par round, scoring 36 points. Liam and Ben followed with a solid 28 points, while James and Patrick added 29, giving Solihull a combined team score of 93.

This proved to be unmatched on the day, with Solihull finishing clear winners of the qualifier by an impressive seven points.

A big thank you to the Old Silhillians who came out to support, and to Louis Meryon (Windsor 1984-1995) for his help as caddie. The team now looks ahead to the finals in Norfolk this October.