The unique format sees players competing in matchplay format over just nine holes instead of the regulation 18 with a time limit of an hour and a half imposed for completion.

The game has been invented at the club by director George Lowe who hopes the nine-hole, high-speed variation will eventually become golf's answer to Twenty 20 cricket.

He said: "We are very excited to be the first club to have come up with this format and we are sure it is going to be a huge success.

"The time limit creates a different set of circumstances for players and the use of the handicap system means everyone can compete on an even footing which creates wonderful competition.

"This is the first time we have tried it but from the feedback we have had from those who took part it appears 90 Ninety is here to stay at Rutland County."

And it wasn't just Rutland County members who took the chance to try something new, players from clubs as far afield as Ropsley, Stoke Rochford and Forest Hills all pitched up to have a go.

With shotgun starts adding a little extra drama to proceedings, competition was fierce throughout the day but despite the large contingent of visitors, it was the home pair of Alan Bainbridge and Bill Collins who won through in the greensomes matchplay format.

Bainbridge and Collins just edged out Greetham hitters Spencer Bromage and Ian Jarvis while third place went to Aidan Staunton and Tom Laughton with Richard Simms and Russell Aust in fourth.

Lowe added: "It was a really good day and I would like to thank Ideal Shopfitters for their gift of £500 in prize money which has been donated to local charity Anna's Hope for children with brain tumours.

"Due to the success of this event we will be holding one more 90 Ninety tournament this year on September 26."

For more information on the format or to reserve a place in the next event call the club on 01780 460330.