THE FIRST COMP IS ON SAT. BE AT THE GOLF CLUB AT NINE. GET READY TO EXERCISE YOUR INNER ALPHA!

In social animals, the alpha is the individual in the community to whom the others follow and defer. Where one male and one female fulfill this role, they are referred to as the alpha pair. In some groups, the alpha males and females are overrepresented in the genetics of a population if they are the only ones who breed successfully.

Chimpanzees show deference to the alpha of the community by ritualised gestures such as bowing, allowing the alpha to walk first in a procession, or standing aside when the alpha challenges. Canines (wolves & dogs, jackals, foxes, etc) show deference to the alpha pair in their pack, by allowing them to be the first to eat and, usually, the only pair to mate. The status of the alpha is sometimes achieved by means of superior physical prowess; however, in certain highly social species such as the bonobo and humans, a contender can use more indirect methods, such as political alliances, to oust the ruling alpha and take their place. Canines use eye contact to establish and maintain alpha position. Gorillas use intimidation. Surfers paddle inside the other blokes who have been patiently waiting for their turn. 

Be there. Every comp counts. There’s glory to be had at the end of the year!