spring edition 2012
TOM’S TEE TIME Movie star Tom Felton on his love for golf and life after Harry Potter
the next generation Tour pros return for ISPS Handa Wales Open
PLAYING CUPID Our helpful hand for Leap Day couple
key to a new look Technogym refit
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come dine with us offers WALES’ ULTIMATE FAMILY SEARCH 2012 ANYONE FOR POLO? official magazine of the celtic Manor resort
saturday 7 th july 2012
Anyo n e f or P ol o? Join us for the ‘event of the season’ when Elemis Polo at the Manor returns to The Celtic Manor Resort this summer. As well as the on-field action and hospitality, guests can also enjoy a visit to the polo village, the delights of the champagne bar and fabulous live entertainment throughout the day.
Hospitality from only £95 +VAT per person For tickets and hospitality packages, visit poloatthemanor.co.uk or call 01633 410318
The Celtic Manor Resort, Coldra Woods, The Usk Valley, South Wales
lo matches fessional po ro p g in ll ri h • T rivate ilions and p av p y it al it • Hosp s marquee pers picnic ham • Gourmet ’s bar ne & Pimm • Champag age • Polo vill rtainment • Live ente Manor ty at Celtic ar p lo o ges p er • Aft ation packa accommod w lo il P to • Polo
What’s Inside
Editor’s Notes
4 MATTERS A round-up of all the latest resort news including the return of Elemis Polo at the Manor and the next developments at Celtic Manor
A Warm welcome to Celtic Connections
10 IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Harry Potter movie star Tom Felton explains why he loves staying at Celtic Manor
12 FAIRWAY FOCUS The next generation of golf for the ISPS Handa Wales Open under it’s new title sponsor, and other news from the courses and academy 16 LIFE & STYLE Cutting edge at the Rhys Giles salon and a new way to spa at Ocius 18 ON THE MENU Join us for tasty Diamond Jubilations and pencil in our cookery masterclasses 20 DELICIOUS DINING Mouth-watering recipe for Usk Valley Leek Tart 22 SOCIAL SCENE Picture board of people and parties at Celtic Manor 24 SAVE THE DATE
Your essential calendar of social events
26 INSIDE VIEW Meet Joe Ferguson, trainee PGA golf professional 27 CELTIC COMMUNITY Resort’s Newbridge Charitable Foundation, win a golf break The Celtic Connections Team Editor Paul Williams paulwilliams@celtic-manor.com 01633 410288 Deputy Editor Stephanie Dillon sdillon@celtic-manor.com 01633 410530 Designer Matthew Sullivan msullivan@celtic-manor.com 01633 410201 Designer Paul Bailey pbailey@celtic-manor.com 01633 410200
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t’s wonderful to toast the arrival of spring with another RBS 6 Nations Grand Slam secured by Wales and so many wonderful summer events to look forward to here at Celtic Manor and beyond. We’ve taken an even greater interest in the rugby success this year as many of the stars of the triumphant team have been spotted around the resort in recent weeks. Captain Sam Warburton has been having golf lessons at the academy along with his girlfriend, the Welsh badminton international Rachel Thomas, and some of Sam’s teammates and their partners have been telling us all about their stays at Celtic Manor on Twitter. Although well short of the following of our rugby heroes, we’re quite excited about the growth of our own social media as we approach 10,000 followers on Twitter. We’re ranked No 5 in Marketing Week’s Top 30 UK Hotels on Twitter as a result, and Golf Club Management named us first in its list of Top Twitter UK Golf Clubs. It’s not just on Twitter that we’ve been picking up awards as Celtic Manor was once again named Best UK Hotel at the 2012 Meetings & Incentive Travel Awards, another glowing endorsement from the events industry experts. As golfers take to the courses in the evenings, taking advantage of the longer daylight hours, we are reminded that the ISPS Handa Wales Open is just around the corner and we can’t wait to to welcome back the stars of The European Tour in late May and early June. Some will rekindle memories of the last Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor 18 months ago while many more will dream of making this year’s Ryder Cup team in Chicago. The tournament first prize here of £300,000 will certainly provide a signifcant springboard towards qualifying for the European side. Hot on the heels of world-class golf, we welcome back more top-drawer sport with our second Elemis Polo at the Manor in July. If the weather is anything like the glorious sunshine that greeted the inaugural event last summer, it will be another day for champagne and smiles. I’ll drink to that! Best wishes
Paul Williams Editor Page 3
The Celtic Manor Resort
Matters News in Brief from Celtic Manor
KING COLE
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rendan Cole tripped the light fantastic with his stunning extravaganza of dance and music at The Celtic Manor Resort. The Caernarfon Ballroom proved the perfect venue as guests enjoyed a fantastic three-course dinner while the Strictly Come Dancing star wowed them on stage. The audience watched transfixed as Brendan and his talented team of five other professional dancers gave a display of fancy footwork and whirling energy. An impassioned paso doble started proceedings and the spectacular show included quickstep, cha cha cha, foxtrot and an elegant Vienesse Waltz before ending with a long, show-stopping American Smooth. Brendan, who has appeared on all nine series of Strictly after winning the first with Natasha Kapinsky, also drew breath for long enough to answer questions and sashayed into the audience to deliver birthday kisses and meet his many fans. The show came at the end of the Bad Boy of Ballroom’s Live and Unjudged theatre tour but everyone in the audience agreed the intimate setting at Celtic Manor made it a unique experience. Watch this space for news of more musical entertainment.
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Chief Operating Officer Ian Edwards with the award
WE’RE No 1 AGAIN
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eltic Manor has cemented its reputation as the No 1 destination for events after winning the award for UK’s Best Hotel for the second year running. The resort held off the challenge of a strong shortlist as Cheshire’s Peckforton Castle took silver and Chewton Glen in the New Forest came third in the Meetings & Incentive Travel Awards. The repeat success at a glittering awards ceremony in London follows Celtic Manor’s autumn triumph in picking up the Conference & Incentive Travel award for Top UK Conference Hotel for a staggering fifth year in a row. In the past year, the resort has improved its convention facilities with a new Monmouth Lounge breakout area for lunch and refreshments, flat screens in meeting rooms and digital signage throughout.
Matters
TASTE OF THE FUTURE
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he Celtic Manor Resort will launch a new fine-dining restaurant in May 2012. The move follows the expiry of its management agreement with Crown Hotels and Restaurants Ltd and the operation of The Crown at Celtic Manor. A high-quality restaurant, serving the finest gourmet cuisine, will continue to operate in the same attractive space off the lobby but under a new name. Head chef Tim McDougall, restaurant manager Ronan Hunter and their team will remain in place to oversee the restaurant, which earned three AA rosettes within a year of opening in April 2008. Celtic Manor Resort Chief Operating Officer Ian Edwards said: “The Crown at Celtic Manor has developed a strong reputation and loyal clientele in its four years of operation but now is the time for The Celtic Manor Resort to reclaim sole ownership and management of its finedining restaurant. “We have enjoyed our association with Crown Hotels and Restaurants, and the Michelin-starred Crown at Whitebrook, but our whole business has changed considerably in the past 12 months.”
look who’s talkin g @TheCelticManor
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ere’s a round up of our favourite tweets from celebrities and guests. Follow us on twitter @TheCelticManor for all the latest Resort news, offers and competitions. @Derek_Redmond
Well back home from a great few days at @thecelticmanor what a great venue will be heading back real soon!
@SamWarburton Thanks @TheCelticManor had a good day chilling with @RyanBevington and @dan_lydiate Now watching take me out! #goodtimes @TheBrendan_Cole Lovely day with @TheZoeCole at the @TheCelticManor. Lunch at rafters over the 18th of the 20/10 in sunshine was like being in NZ. Great day
scended on TV cameras de ith Me Come Dine W
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the resort to fil
Come Dine With Us
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he Celtic Manor Resort hit the TV screens again in March after it was used as a filming location by the popular Channel 4 show, Come Dine With Me. A group of Newport food-lovers contested the £1,000 prize in the dinner party competition and the show used the Roman Road golf course and the Crown restaurant to film comments from the contestants. To celebrate, we’re inviting our own diners to review our restaurants and try to win a Come Dine With Me-style dinner party for their friends in the Presidential Suite. Whether you choose to enter the review competition or not, there’s also great value dining to be had in all six of our restaurants until the end of May, under the Come Dine With Us promotion.
@pinkzebrapr Lovely day @TheCelticManor - spa for me, golf for him. Beaut @JohnSimonett Fab response from Boehringer global staff conference @TheCelticManor last nite. CM staff and venue absolutely superb as always. Thanks! @BBasics @rhysgileshair @TheCelticManor 5star wedding fair! Hair so beautiful Kim Kardashian would have been happy! @WelshFoodCritic Fantastic meal at the Newbridge on Usk, part of the @TheCelticManor. Review coming soon :) @spamdiddly Just back from @TheCelticManor what a place. The hotel and staff were unbelievable, and the golf? You just have to play the 2010 course.
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The Celtic Manor Resort
LEAPING WITH JOY
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eltic Manor played Cupid when a lucky competition winner was given the chance to propose to the man of her dreams in the romantic setting of the Presidential Suite. In a leap year, February 29 is traditionally the day when ladies are allowed to reverse convention and ask their partners to marry them. So we decided to help them out by offering the hotel’s most sumptuous suite to the most deserving suitor. Heather Allen submitted the best romantic story and, with our help, surprised her unsuspecting boyfriend, Danny Turner, with a ring hidden within a gift box in the suite’s spacious lounge. To her delight, he said “Yes!” and the happy couple celebrated with champagne before being served a candlelit three-course dinner in the dining room of the suite, which has previously played host to celebrities like
CALLING ALL ADVENTURE LOVERS
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Auntie S ue from the Fox fa on the A mily zip qua Cha s in llenge in 2011
hink your nearest and dearest have what it takes to be crowned Wales’ Ultimate Family 2012? We’re launching our search for the next generation of supreme adventurers after last year’s inaugural competition was won by the Kill family from Raglan. Now we are looking for more spirited families who love outdoor activities and pride themselves on their teamwork to enter this year’s hunt for Wales’ Ultimate Family. We’re looking to recruit five finalist families to enjoy an overnight stay at the resort and compete against each other in tests of skill, speed and communication on the Forest Jump treetop ropes course.
Watch the website, forestjump.co.uk, for details of how to enter our search for Wales’ Ultimate Family 2012
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Beyonce, Kylie Minogue and Bruce Springsteen. “We’ve just had the most amazing time and this was the perfect setting in which to ask Danny to marry me,” said Heather. Danny said: “I hadn’t really thought about the date so this was a wonderful surprise.”
champions, Last year’s n from Ragla
ily
the Kill fam
Matters
PERFECT POLO
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njoy the perfect day out with friends this summer as the ‘sport of kings’ returns to Celtic Manor. Following the sell-out success of last year’s sundrenched inaugural Elemis Polo at the Manor, this prestigious event promises once again to be the social occasion of the season. As well as the thrilling on-field action, guests can enjoy a fantastic day out at the Polo Village with its bar and food outlets and retail stands, plus the Kids Zone has fun and games for children. Sponsored by the leading luxury spa and skincare brand, Elemis, their SpaBus will be stopping at the event. Let the ‘Elemis Angels’ bring the world of the spa straight to you as you pamper yourselves on board with an indulgent menu of 15 minute facial and body treatments - it’s one bus you don’t want to miss! Make your day a truly stylish affair with a specially prepared picnic box, available to pre-order when purchasing general admission tickets. Full of savoury and sweet treats they are perfect for an al fresco lunch in the great outdoors. General admission tickets are now on sale so make sure you don’t miss this summer’s best sporting and social occasion. For more details and to purchase tickets visit poloatthemanor.co.uk
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The Celtic Manor Resort
KEY TO A NEW LOOK
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oth leisure clubs at The Celtic Manor Resort have started the year in a rude state of health thanks to the installation of the latest state-of-the-art equipment from Technogym. The refurbishments mean hotel guests and health club members have no excuse not to stick to their resolutions and go for fitness gold during Olympic year. The new equipment includes the Wellness System whereby all members hold their own personal key to work to their own paperless fitness programmes. Technogym is a London Games sponsor and the same resistance and cardiovascular equipment that is now putting people through their paces in the Forum and Dylans will be keeping the athletes toned in the Olympic Village. Olympic relay gold medal-winning sprinter Jason Gardener (pictured right) was back in tape-breaking form to cut the ribbon and officially open the new facilities at Dylans.
gym The new Dylans t a t u o lay
OLYMPIC DREAM
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arah Jane Symonds, fitness consultant at Dylans Health Club, has been selected as a volunteer for the London 2012 Olympic Games. “When I discovered I would be part of the Olympics this summer I couldn’t believe it” said Sarah Jane. “I competed in athletics for 11 years, represented Wales in competitions and was tipped for selection for the Commonwealth Games before I suffered from a knee injury, so to be part of the Olympics is a dream come true.” Sarah Jane will be part of the medical team at the Olympics, acting as a first aid emergency responder and will also be performing sports massage on the athletes, having qualified as a massage therapist last year. “I’ll be based at the Aquatics Centre and hope to catch some of the action when I’m not treating the athletes. You never know, it might even give me the inspiration to join the athletics senior league!” joked Sarah Jane. At the start of the year she was also chosen as the sports therapist for the Army’s female football team and regularly meets up with the team for their training camps and match days, acting as their sports therapist and match day physio therapist. Page 8
matters
A TASTE FOR THE HIGH LIFE
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an Millington always wanted to reach the top in his chosen profession... but not many would envy him his job! Ian was the steeplejack charged with putting the finishing touches to repair work on Celtic Manor’s iconic 100ft flagpole when it was damaged in high winds. After a week of erecting scaffolding to get as close as possible to the summit, Ian shimmied up the last climb to fit the “ball” at the very top. The pole and rope were damaged in high winds when the flag flew at half mast in November to mark the tragic death of Wales football manager, Gary Speed. Thanks to Ian’s head for heights, the Welsh Dragon was back in place in time to fly proudly for Wales’ Six Nations campaign, when it is always a landmark fans look for as they head home on the M4 for matches.
k Loo t ’s a h W ing Com this mer sum
will be part Paintballing activity zone
of the new
Guests will als o be able archery to ta
ke aim
at
right on target
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alling all sharp shooters, hot shots and weekend warriors! If adrenaline-pumping adventure is what gets you all fired up, we’re about to open the wildest woods in the west. In the heart of Coldra Woods within the grounds of the Resort, intrepid adventurers of all ages will be able to try their hand at paintballing, laser combat, archery, crossbows and laser clay pigeon shooting. On Target will offer an exhilarating outdoor experience perfect for family adventure, weekend fun, corporate groups and adventure activity days.
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The Celtic Manor Resort
In The Spotlight TOM FELTON
Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter films, celebrated his 24th birthday with a golfing trip to The Celtic Manor Resort. We caught up with him during his stay
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In the spotlight
After 10 years being involved, does it still feel strange that the Harry Potter series of films has come to an end? Yes it does. Probably now more than ever because we’ve seen the last film come out and it’s several months later and the phone’s not ringing with people planning the next round of filming. But I look back on some fantastic memories and I think we were all happy to finish on a high note. Is it difficult to break away from the character of Draco Malfoy? I’m always going to miss the character because Draco was my alter ego, if you like, for so many years and a character I thoroughly enjoyed playing. I don’t miss the blond hair, though! Any role in which you get to step outside your own character as much as possible is always more fun. And I hope that’s what I was doing, playing the villain as Draco! What would be your dream role? As an eager seven-year-old, when I first started to think about acting, I said straight away I’d love to play James Bond. Maybe now it should change to playing a James Bond villain!
g time on the
es spendin Tom Felton lov golf course
Where do you see yourself in another 10 years? I think now the Harry Potter series has come to an end, it’s dawned on me how lucky we’ve been and how rich our experience has been as young actors. I don’t look too far into the future but I hope to continue acting in films and I’ve been lucky that another great role came around so quickly in Rise of the Apes and I’ve got a couple of other movies coming out in 2012. Appropriately enough, one of them is about golf. It’s called From The Rough and tells the true story of Catana Starks, the first woman ever to coach a college men’s golf team in America. I play one of five misfit golfers from around the world that she bonds into a team of winners at Tennessee State University. So how much do you enjoy playing the game of golf? Well, let’s just say I used the film as a great excuse to get out on the golf course as much as possible... important method acting, you understand! It’s a game that’s thoroughly got under my skin in the last couple of years. I did some filming here at Celtic Manor for a documentary with Rupert Grint and the Phelps twins where we talked about the final Harry Potter films. The Twenty Ten Course was actually the first full-size course I had ever played. Previous to that I’d just played a parthree course near home so it was a bit of a baptism of fire! I shot 96 for that first round which I was pretty pleased with – I think I’d struggle to match that now, even though I’ve now really caught the bug and have a handicap of 15. It’s one of the frustrations of the game that sometimes the more you play, the worse you get.
What else do you like about staying here at The Celtic Manor Resort? It has everything. I’ve brought my two best friends here on this occasion and it’s a joint birthday celebration for two of us. We’ve had a great time. For me, it’s not just the impressive golf courses and facilities, it’s the quality of the whole place - the restaurants and the bars. It’s always good to have a nice 19th hole and here it feels like you’ve got about 10 of them! We’ve had a really warm welcome from all the staff and the service is impeccable. I really can’t thank them enough. The whole feel is one of prestige, but it also feels very relaxed here. What else do you do to relax? I have a cherished dog at home called Timber who’s a Chesapeake Bay Retriever. The original idea was to train her as a gundog but after two years, she’s very much my house dog. We’ve got lots of woodland around home so I find it very relaxing to go out on nice, long walks. I love calling out “Timber!” as we walk through the woods!
Showing his dark side as th Draco Mal e malevol foy in th ent e Harry Po tter films
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The Celtic Manor Resort
Fairway Focus What’s hot in golf at Celtic manor
THE NEXT GENERATION OF GOLF
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pring has sprung which means the ISPS Handa Wales Open must be just around the corner. With the drama of the 2010 Ryder Cup still strong in the memory, the stars of the European Tour will return to Celtic Manor hoping to boost their quest to be part of this year’s team in Chicago. Many of the hottest contenders for Jose Maria Olazabal’s side will tee up in the event, keen to get their hands on the £300,000 first prize and the corresponding Ryder Cup qualifying points. Sweden’s Alexander Noren is the defending champion and, two years ago, Graeme McDowell used his win at Celtic Manor as the platform for victory in the US Open two weeks later before returning to capture the winning point in the Ryder Cup. Who will step up this year from among the talented young ranks on The European Tour? This year we welcome a new tournament title sponsor to the ISPS Handa Wales Open and we look forward to assisting their efforts to promote blind and disabled golf around the world. As well as top class sporting action at one of The European Tour’s leading events, the tournament always offers spectators the chance to enjoy a great family day out with its tented village of attractions. Children Under-16 go free if accompanied by an adult. For tickets and information, visit ispshandawalesopen.com
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ABOUT ISPS
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SPS is the International Sports Promotion Society, an organisation founded by Japanese businessman and philanthropist, Dr Haruhisa Handa in 2006 to support charitable causes throughout the sporting world. Dr Handa set up the Japanese Blind Golf Association in 1988 and was the driving force behind the formation of the International Blind Golf Association (IBGA) in 1998. Dr Handa also has a long history in supporting golf throughout the world and sponsored his first tournament on the Japanese Tour over 15 years ago. Since then ISPS has supported events across the European Senior Tour, Asian Tour, Legends Tour, Ladies European Tour, Japan PGA, Golf Australia and the Australian PGA, using them as a platform to raise the profile of blind and disabled golf. The 2012 ISPS Handa Wales Open is its first sponsorship of an event on The European Tour. ISPS’s heritage in blind and disabled golf and Dr Handa’s commitment to golf is the foundation of its wider mission for golf to become a Paralympic sport. Celtic Manor pros will be among the first to qualify under the ISPS Handa PGA Academy Programme, which aims to provide 1,000 free lessons for blind and disabled golfers.
fairway focus
ROMAN ROAD REROUTED DRIVING FORCE
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he touring golf professionals won’t be the only ones demonstrating impressive drives when the ISPS Handa Wales Open tees off at Celtic Manor this summer. Luxury car dealership Sytner Cardiff BMW has signed up as Official Vehicle Supplier for the tournament and will be providing the courtesy cars to shuttle the star players across the resort. Golfers and officials will be transported in style from the hotel to the Twenty Ten Clubhouse and Course which provided such a memorable stage for The Ryder Cup in 2010. The tournament takes place just a week after The European Tour’s flagship BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Club. “We are delighted to associate our prestige brand with the ISPS Handa Wales Open, which has grown into one of the biggest events of Wales’ sporting summer,” said Keith Farrell, Dealer Principal of Sytner Cardiff BMW (pictured below with Celtic Manor Commercial Manager Nigel Murphy).
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he Roman Road Course is undergoing a slight reconfiguration this spring as one par-3 hole makes way for another on the resort’s original championship layout. The 13th hole that runs alongside the Resort Hotel is being taken out of play and replaced by a par-3 on the front nine. The replacement, a downhill 149-yarder from the back tees, has been used previously and slots in between the fourth and fifth on the existing course. It will actually be the seventh hole on the new layout as the current holes 16 and 17 will be played as the new second and third, meaning the front nine now ends at the old sixth hole (pictured). The reconfigured course will have a total yardage of 6,481 yards from the white tees and retain its par of 70.
GIVE YOUR BALL A ROCKET LAUNCH
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aylorMade claims its new Rocketballz fairway woods are coming out of the driver’s shadow by adding up to 17 yards of distance to your shots. Engineered to dramatically increase ball speed and distance, a sole-positioned Speed Pocket offers the ultimate launching pad. "I actually laughed the first time I hit this 3-wood,” said TaylorMade tour pro Justin Rose, recent winner of the Cadillac World Golf Championship “It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen. Carrying a 3-wood 284 yards? Those are driver numbers - bring on the par 5s!" Replacing the old TaylorMade Burner range, the Rocketballz range also includes drivers, rescue clubs and irons. Visit the golf academy to be custom fitted for your next set of golf clubs
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The Celtic Manor Resort
BUILDING UP STARS OF THE FUTURE
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uropean Tour star Rhys Davies has lent his support to the Principality Junior Wales Open as the competition returns to Celtic Manor in 2012, aiming to develop the next generation of golfing talent. Wales’ premier junior golf tournament starts with five regional qualifying events across Wales in April and Davies will make a special guest appearance at August’s grand final played over Celtic Manor’s Twenty Ten Course, which provided such a dramatic stage for the 2010 Ryder Cup. Regional qualifying events take place at Royal St David’s, Harlech (4th April), Langland Bay (5th April), Builth Wells (11th April), Marriott St Pierre (12th April) and Radyr (13th April). Successful junior qualifiers in Under-13, Under-15 and Under-18 age groups will then contest a grand final on 20th August on The Twenty Ten Course, as well as enjoy an overnight stay at Celtic Manor. Principality Building Society and The Celtic Manor Resort are determined to build on the legacy of Wales’ first Ryder Cup with a competition which hopes to foster future champions to follow in the footsteps of Welsh Ryder Cup heroes like Ian Woosnam and Phillip Price, and Solheim Cup star Becky Brewerton.
Graeme Yorston, Chief Operating Officer at Principality Building Society, said: “We are proud to support grass roots sport in Wales and we are pleased to announce we will be supporting the Principality Junior Wales Open for at least another two years, during which time we’re confident we’ll see more budding Welsh talent shine through.” Last year’s relaunched Principality Junior Wales Open was won by scratch handicap Gwent county player Toby Hunt (pictured right) and the girls’ competition was won by Amy Boulden, who went on to earn Junior Solheim Cup honours for Europe. Other former winners of a competition which was first launched in 2002 have included Rhys Pugh who was the only player to win all three of his matches in last year’s Walker Cup victory over the Americans. At the other end of the spectrum, golfers as young as 10 got their first taste of competition outside their own clubs in last year’s event, which had almost 400 junior entries. For an entry fee of £15, every competitor gets 18 holes of golf in the qualifier, a packed lunch and a goody bag of golfing merchandise from Welsh company Asbri, as well as the chance to bid for top prizes in the grand final. Enter online at ispshandawalesopen.com
Today's Golfer Awards Celtic Manor polled a double success when it was named Wales’ best golf course and best hotel/resort in the inaugural Today’s Golfer travel awards. The resort’s Twenty Ten Course polled 53 per cent of the vote for best golf course in Wales, beating the celebrated links courses at Royal Porthcawl and Royal St David’s, Harlech, into second and third place respectively. Celtic Manor took a massive 80 per cent of the poll in the hotel/resort section of the awards run in association with Your Golf Travel.
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Last year' s champion Toby Hun European t and, top, Tour star Rhys Dav ies.
Fairway Focus
UNDER STARTER’S ORDERS
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t was horses for courses on The Twenty Ten this spring when On Khee posed on the first tee with Grand National winning jockey Mick Fitzgerald and Gina McKee. The racing trio were promoting the Cheltenham Festival Golf Day on the eve of the celebrated March meeting, the first of three Fairway To Furlong golf and racing events planned for this year. The golf day at Celtic Manor saw teams tee off on both the Twenty Ten and Roman Road courses followed by a gala dinner in aid of Cancer Research and the Seve Foundation. Further events take place this summer around the Royal Ascot and Glorious Goodwood meetings. More details on fairwaytofurlong.com
having a ball
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couple of familiar faces took to the Twenty Ten Course as the fog lifted one morning this spring. Former Holland football captain Ruud Gullit and entertainer DJ Spoony teed off after talking in front of the Sky Sports News cameras about their passion for golf and Celtic Manor. Both were making their first trips back since the Ryder Cup and their singles match proved every bit as competitive with Ruud finally winning on the 18th green.
GRADUATING WITH HONOURS
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eltic Manor golf academy professional John McDonald has passed his final PGA exams with flying colours – coming a fantastic fourth out of 1,000 trainees. John achieved his success in the comprehensive degree course which takes in golf coaching, sports science, business management, finance
and equipment technology. He completed his training at the academy under the supervision of head teaching professional LeeJay Barnes. For your next fully qualified PGA lesson with Jon or another member of the coaching team, call 01633 410312 or drop in at the academy.
ald John McDon professional g n hi ac K te U A re ti PG urth in the en graduated fo
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The Celtic Manor Resort
Life & Style
STEP IN TO SUMMER
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he exclusive Hugo Boss collection is now available at the Celtic Mall. Step out in style with the latest sophisticated fashion for men and women with the exquisite materials and legendary premium cuts of this elegant range of clothing.
Glamour & Style secrets
A NEW WAY TO SPA
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ituated in the magnificent surroundings of The Lodge at Celtic Manor, just a stone’s throw from the Resort Hotel, Ocius Treatment Rooms offer a new way to spa. Designed to bring a touch of pampering to time-pressed people balancing the busy demands of everyday life, the brand new spa menu will have you looking fantastic and feeling great within moments. The Ocius Signature Treatments offer a tempting trio of treats, including two luxurious massage experiences, the Signature Massage and the Signature Hot Stones Massage plus an indulgent Signature Facial. There are also exotic body treatments, manicures and pedicures available for those all important beautiful finishing touches!
A GIFT TO TREASURE
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lemis have created a beautiful silver and jade keep-sake jewellery box containing jewels from the Elemis anti-ageing range - the perfect gift set for someone special! £58, at The Forum Spa
ination The Perfect Comb
Perfect Combinations ing experience, the or a unique pamper e. Enjoy two specially for sheer indulgenc r at Ocius are a recipe h other to restore you s that complement eac selected spa treatment
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well-being. ger to e and stay a little lon a residential packag Why not upgrade to t facilities? make use of the Resor includes: Residential package use with full Welsh the historic Manor Ho in y sta t igh ern Ov • breakfast -winning Le Patio g dinner at the award • Two course evenin restaurant e inations spa experienc • Your Perfect Comb s and slipper • Use of robe, towel d Fitness Club of Dylan’s Health an use ary ent • Complim , Sunday - Thursday From £109 per person
it celtic-manor.com For more details, vis to book or call 01633 410262
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life & style
We love Devils Mint Body Scrub. Ensure you look bright and beautiful for summer with this revitalising body scrub from Elemis that’s perfect for removing the tired skin cells of winter. £24.60, at The Forum Spa
GOING BACK TO YOUR ROOTS
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he Rhys Giles salon has become the first salon in Wales to introduce a new era in professional scalp technology with the revolutionary new camera from Kérastase Paris, which analyses both the hair and scalp. With staggering levels of magnification, this hi-tech diagnosis observes and evaluates hair erosion and fibre health on screen, allowing the team to determine the best course of treatment to help to tackle any issues or reverse any damage quickly and effectively. Free consultations are offered before every appointment and it is this level of customer service and attention to detail that has won the salon so many of its awards. To make an appointment at the Rhys Giles salon at Celtic Manor call 01633 410323
OCIUS SIGNATURE MASSAGE
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BASICS A classic, relaxation massage combining all five of the basic massage strokes. Lie still whilst your masseuse moves around you, using classic Swedish techniques to relax and de-stress.
OCIUS SIGNATURE HOT STONES MASSAGE BASICS A specialty massage using heated basalt stones that glide over your body using soothing oils. The heat from the stones relaxes the muscles in a luxurious and soothing experience.
BEST FOR A personalised massage to address your individual needs. Can help restore a sense of well-being to the body and mind.
BEST FOR If you love the feeling of a massage but want to try something different. It’s a deeper and more intense all-over massage.
RESULTS Relieves stress and tension to leave your whole body feeling incredibly calm and relaxed.
RESULTS Soothes muscles and can melt away the aches and pains of specific injuries.
CASTAWAY COLLECTION
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nspired by warm sandy beaches, crystal blue waters and desert islands, this season Leighton Denny uncovers The Castaway Collection - a treasure trove of on-trend, high performance, glamorous nail colours. Let your nails take you to paradise with the cool, beachy tones of Blue Lagoon, Coconutty, Coral Reef, Shipwrecked and Maroon Me Not.
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The Celtic Manor Resort
On The Menu Delightful dining at celtic manor
B
e our guest and celebrate Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee and the specially extended Bank Holiday weekend that comes with it! Feel like royalty as you indulge in our five star luxury whilst taking part in this historic occasion marking the 60th year of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. With events taking place throughout the weekend, you can watch the BBC’s Diamond Jubilee Concert live from Buckingham Palace on the big screens at our Jubilee Concert Barbecue, or get into the party spirit with our fabulous garden party celebrations and live entertainment in the stunning surroundings of the Rooftop Garden. Or there is the Big Jubilee Lunch, a Sunday lunch buffet with a royal twist. It’s guaranteed to be a great family occasion with giant garden games and complimentary face painting for children throughout the afternoon!
Revellers at last year's Garden Party to celebrate the Royal Wed ding
For more information visit celtic-manor.com
Class Sch edule
COOKERY MASTERCLASS
T
aking place throughout 2012, these seasonal themed cookery demonstrations with a difference are an unmissable event for all food lovers and budding chefs alike. The Resort’s culinary team will be showcasing their skills, providing you will all the inspiration you need to recreate these delicious dishes at home. Each demonstration is followed by a pre-lunch drinks reception and a three course lunch with accompanying wines served in The Olive Tree Garden Room.
£55 per person
Head chef Tim McDoug all gets to grips with a lobster at a prev ious masterclass
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E
TH JUN
4TH - 5
on the menu
SUMMER STARTS EARLY
E
A duet of W elsh lamb wa s among th St David’s e Day recipes featured in the media
THE FEAST OF ST DAVID
S
t David’s Day on 1st March, also known as the Feast of St David, was the perfect opportunity to celebrate the wonderful food of Wales. Traditional recipes with a twist from Culinary Director Peter Fuchs were published on the Guardian website and in the South Wales Echo.
ver-optimistic that those sunny days we all love are just around the corner, our barbecue season starts early this year with some fantastic spring sizzlers planned to kick off the season in style from the Easter Bank Holiday Weekend. Join us in the picturesque surroundings of our Rooftop Garden for a sumptuous barbecue buffet including Moroccan lamb kebabs, Texan BBQ pork ribs, burgers, hot dogs, jambalaya and much more, rounded off with an array of delicious desserts. And if the Great British Weather has other ideas, our wonderful new all-weather Barbecue Terrace will ensure that the party goes with a swing, come rain or shine! £28 per person £14 per child (2 – 12 years)
J
oin us for a unique adventure that’s fit for a king and full of family fun as we take you on a trip back in time to the Middle Ages for a magical experience of medieval merriment on 9th and 10th August 2012. Package includes: • Two nights’ accommodation at the five star Resort Hotel • Full Welsh breakfast each morning • Medieval banquet dinner at Caldicot Castle on the second evening • Transfers between the Resort and Caldicot Castle • Use of The Forum Health Club’s facilities £155 per person, based on two adults sharing £45 per child (age 2 – 12 years) when sharing adults’ room
DINE AROUND THE WORLD
A
dventurous foodies are in for a real culinary treat at The Olive Tree restaurant, with some exciting themed dining events taking place during the year. Broaden your culinary horizons as you enjoy a mouth-watering feast of flavours from around the world, expertly created by our talented chefs. Flavours of Asia - 25th June Around the Mediterranean - 21st September Canadian Thanksgiving - 8th, 9th & 10th October Alpine Adventure – 24th November
To book call Reservations on 01633 410262 £25 per person £12.50 per child (2 – 12 years) Page 19
The Celtic Manor Resort
Delicious Dining seasonal dishes from the celtic manor kitchen
Usk Valley Leek Tart
Page 20
s
r Peter Fuch
nary Directo
Resort Culi
delicious dining
Serve wi
th
Using some fine Welsh ingredients,
With this type of d ish our e Sommeli xpert er would p lu mp for a A fresh Rosé. and fru ity exam the South ple from of Franc e is Chate l’Aumér au de ade, "Cu v e e Marie Ch Cotes de ristine", Provence Cru Clas sé.
this Usk Valley Leek Tart is a perfect spring starter or light lunch. Culinary Director Peter Fuchs explains how to cook it up.
INGREDIENTS
Method
Serves 8 Pastry 175g/7oz plain flour 75g/3oz butter, cut into pieces 50g/2oz Nantybwla, Cenarth or Caerphilly cheese, grated 1 egg yolk 1 tsp salt 1 tbsp of chopped chives or 1 tsp of thyme 1 tsp mustard powder 3 tbsp water (more if needed) Filling 3 leeks, cleaned, trimmed, sliced and sautéed until soft 4 hardboiled eggs, shelled and sliced 225g/8oz Llangloffan farmhouse cheese or a similar mature Welsh cheese Bechamel sauce 600ml/1 pint milk 300ml/ pint double cream 1 bay leaf, slice of carrot, small stick celery, slice of onion, 6 peppercorns, 1 clove garlic Salt to taste 50g/2oz butter 50g/2oz flour Coastline Salad 80g rocket, 50g sea lettuce, 50g dandelion 50ml olive oil, 20ml vinegar Salt & pepper
To make the pastry • Sift the flour, mustard powder and salt into a mixing bowl. • Rub the butter into the flour and make a well in the centre. • Place the yolk, water, cheese and herbs in the well and gradually mix in with the flour and butter to form a dough. • Roll out on a floured surface and line a 25cm / 10 inch buttered tart tin or 8 individual tart moulds • Chill for 20 minutes. Line the pastry shell with baking parchment and baking beans • Bake blind in a preheated oven for 25 minutes. • Remove the parchment and beans and cook for a further 15 minutes until the shell is golden and firm to the touch. To make the sauce • Heat together the milk, cream, bay leaf, peppercorns, carrot, celery, onion, garlic and nutmeg. • Bring almost to the boil, remove from the heat and cover with a lid, leave to cool. • Strain the flavoured milk into a jug. • In a clean saucepan, melt the butter, stir in the flour and cook for one minute. • Add the milk a little at a time to the flour whisking all the time. • Bring to the boil stirring constantly, reduce the heat and cook for 2 minutes. • Add the cheese and melt into the sauce. Assemble the tart • Place the cooked leeks into the pastry shell, arrange the sliced egg on top, then pour over the cheese sauce. • Top with the remaining grated cheese and the breadcrumbs, place under a hot grill until golden.
To serve Mix coastline salad and dress with olive oil and some balsamic vinegar / or any other flavour you like. Cut tart to required size, place on plate and serve with the mixed coastline salad
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The Celtic Manor Resort
Social Scene People & parties at celtic manor
Brendan Cole Live at the Manor
H
undreds of guests joined us in the Caernarfon Ballroom on Saturday 18th February for a special dance extravaganza, getting up close and personal with Brendan Cole. The star of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ wowed the audience in the finale of his sellout UK tour as he waltzed his way on to the dancefloor to perform a high-energy show with a superb live band.
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social scene
Technogym Launch Party
O
lympic gold-medal winning sprinter Jason Gardener officially reopened Dylans Health Club after it was comprehensively refurbished with the latest, state-of-the-art Technogym equipment.
Dylan the Dr agon enjoys a spin on th fairground e teacups s
ymond
h Jane S or Sara instruct y a w Fitness e th embers shows m
ched ps iron wat dener pum y ra G es Jason Gar m Ja instructor by fitness
Jason Gardener cuts the ribbon to open the new Dylans Te chnogym
Lott, d, Alfie rimstea e Gillard u S Sarah G nd illard a G y le y Ha
Nicola Middlet on, Natalie Wrig ht, Tasha Cole & Ca rla Wright
Models hit the cat walk to show off bridal designs on the big day
, ggett h Slo Sara r , e n b r a enn e Ba ad Br gh & Corri Sine ou G a c Rebec
tured also fea ear was w ws s o h m s o st gro fashion The late g Fayre in d ed in the W
Wedding Fayre
O
ur exclusive annual wedding fayre, held on Sunday 19th February, was a spectacular success attended by hundreds of expectant brides to be. With a series of contemporary catwalk shows Brides had the opportunity to meet our team of Event Coordinators and specially selected exhibitors ranging from photography services, wedding cakes, jewellers, honeymoon specialists, stationery suppliers and wedding cars, plus the contemporary catwalk shows added to a fantastic day with a lovely atmosphere. Our wedding fayre will return in 2013 – we hope to see you there!
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The Celtic Manor Resort
Save The Date Don’t miss out!
now ou can orget y ts e Don’t f k c 2012 ti Manor
e
lo at th
book Po
ROOFTOP BARBECUES
ISPS HANDA WALES OPEN
Join us in the picturesque
The 2012 ISPS Handa Wales Open
surroundings of our Rooftop
offers a great chance to see many of
Garden for a sumptuous barbecue
The European Tour’s brightest stars
buffet including Moroccan lamb
return to The Celtic Manor Resort to
kebabs, Texan BBQ pork ribs,
compete for a trophy won in previous
burgers, hot dogs, jambalaya and
years by Ryder Cup players including
much more, rounded off with an
Paul McGinley, Ian Poulter and Graeme
array of delicious desserts.
McDowell.
And if the Great British Weather
Families can also enjoy a great day out at
has other ideas, our wonderful
the Tented Village with its bars and food
new all-weather Barbecue Terrace
outlets, a big screen to watch the golf
will ensure that the party goes
and the ever popular Kidz Zone.
with a swing, come rain or shine!
Purchase tickets online at www.ispshandawalesopen.com
FATHER’S DAY
ELEMIS POLO AT THE MANOR Enjoy the perfect day out with friends and
CAERLEON ARTS FESTIVAL
THE OLYMPIC GAMES
Treat your dad this Father’s Day and show
family this summer as the ‘sport of kings’
Caerleon Arts Festival is
has the honour of hosting the very
him just how special he
returns to the Celtic Manor. Following the
celebrating its tenth year in 2012
first event of The London 2012
is with a Championship
sell-out success of last year’s inaugural
and to mark this special occasion
Olympic Games, as it ‘kicks off’
Experience golf gift
Elemis Polo at the Manor, this prestigious
the festival is going to be even
with the women’s football matches
voucher at the home of
event promises once again to be the social
bigger and better and will
starting on 25 July. It will also host
The 2010 Ryder Cup.
occasion of the season.
feature a cinema, drama, music
the men’s bronze medal match.
The Millennium Stadium in Cardiff
for all tastes, dancing, literary
Purchase vouchers online at celtic-manor.com/ Online-Shop
As well as the on-field action, guests
celebrities, quilting, storytelling,
Look out for special Olympic
can enjoy a fantastic day out at the Polo
exhibitors and international
themed activities at the Resort this
Village with its bar and food outlets and
sculpting - all at venues across
summer
retail stands, plus the Kids Zone has fun
Caerleon.
and games for children.
For more information visit www. poloatthemanor.co.uk
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The Opening Ceremony takes place on Friday 27 July
save the date
WHITSUN HALF TERM
ROYAL JUBILATIONS
EURO 2012
SATURDAY NIGHT SWING OUT
Go straight to the top of the
Be our guest and celebrate Her
Stay at the Resort
Put your glad rags on and step out in
class and earn top marks from
Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee and
during Euro 2012 and
style for a sensational Saturday night
your kids with a fun packed
the specially extended Bank
catch all the matches
dinner and dance at The Olive Tree Garden
break to celebrate the start of
Holiday weekend that comes
live as the action
Room. Get into the party mood with a
summer. Jump head first in to fun
with it! With events taking place
unfolds during the
truly spectacular buffet dinner with wine,
and adventure with our Forest
throughout the weekend, you
tournament.
followed by dancing until midnight to the
Jump treetop adventure, Resort
can watch the BBC’s Diamond
sounds of our sensational swing band. It’s
Rangers, Adventure Golf, games
Jubilee Concert live from
a great opportunity to get together for a
room, mountain bikes, plus much
Buckingham Palace on the big
fun night out with friends!
more giving them plenty to talk
screens at our Jubilee Concert
about when they head back to
Barbecue, or get into the party
school!
spirit with our fabulous garden
£45 per person
party celebrations and live
Includes buffet dinner, half a
entertainment in the stunning
bottle of wine per person and live
surroundings of the Rooftop
entertainment until midnight
Garden.
Castle Fayre to Dragon’s Lair
SUMMER BERRY HEAVEN
ABERGAVENNY FOOD FESTIVAL
A must-see for all food lovers and budding chefs,
If you are passionate about food, this fabulous event
Join us for a unique adventure
join the Resort’s culinary team for a cookery
is not to be missed! Join Abergavenny’s burgeoning
from pampering relaxation to
demonstration with a difference. These experts will
food community and peruse hundreds of stalls, talk
raucous revelry, as heavenly
showcase their skills with the finest in gourmet
to the finest producers from all across Wales and of
meets history in a tale of two
dining, featuring a seasonal theme and creative
course, eat, drink and be merry!
kingdoms. Receive a royal
ideas influenced by our restaurant menus.
www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com
welcome and indulge in the five star luxury of our Resort Hotel,
£55 per person, includes pre-lunch drinks
before a trip back in time to
reception plus three course lunch with wine.
the Middle Ages with a magical evening of medieval merriment.
If you can’t make it in August, look out for more cookery demonstrations running throughout the year.
Page 25
The Celtic Manor Resort
Inside View JOE FERGUSON TRAINEE pga GOLF PROFESSIONAL
How long have you worked at the Resort? Since July 2010. I started in Client Services and was part of the Ryder Cup hub fielding phone calls from all over the world but the intention for me, as a golf pro, was always to move over to golf as soon as a vacancy came up.
What are you hobbies? I love my football and support Newcastle United because it’s where my family originate from even though I never lived there myself. I also spend quite a bit of time in the gym – working on my fitness for golf especially.
Describe your typical day? Well, there’s always plenty of variety. As a trainee professional who’s just started his PGA course, my lesson teaching is mostly restricted to juniors and beginners and I’m also learning the ropes on custom-fitting. It’s great to work with all the state-of-the-art equipment we have at the academy. We’re also all very busy on the retail side in the shop, not just in the academy but in the clubhouse pro shops and even, on occasions, in the Celtic Mall in the Resort Hotel.
Who would you most like to have dinner with? Louise Redknapp. Apart from the obvious, she seems a very nice girl and, with the family she’s married into, she could probably talk a good game of football!
What’s your favourite thing about The Celtic Manor? The quality of the golf offering here from the Twenty Ten Course, which is just a spectacular challenge, to the practice facilities here at the academy. If you weren’t doing this job, what would you be doing? Well, my long-term ambition is still to become a tour golfer. I was in England boys’ squads as a junior and then in the men’s amateur squad for three years. It didn’t quite happen for me when I first turned pro but I’m getting to play some PGA events now and making some progress so I haven’t given up on the dream! What’s your greatest achievement? I made the England team of 12 for the European Strokeplay Championship one year. Ross Fisher was in the same team. I am hoping to win a spot in this year’s ISPS Handa Wales Open as we are planning a Celtic Manor pros’ qualifier to win a sponsors invite. Who is the most famous person you’ve met at work? A call came in for Tiger Woods when I was on the Ryder Cup hub so I asked to put it through and got to speak very briefly with Tiger. Page 26
What three words best describe your character? Relaxed, confident and happy. What’s your favourite holiday destination? New York, New York! I’ve been twice and there always seems to be something happening, whatever time of day or night you are out. What’s your favourite season? Summer. I love to get out in the sun and play golf in shorts and a T-shirt. Winter is just so bleak, by comparison. What’s your favourite type of food? Curry. Chicken Madras has got to be my favourite and I’ll have sides of Bombay potato and pilau rice if you’re asking. What three things could you not live without? Curry, golf and my fiancée. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? The big white house to the right of the second hole on Sunningdale’s Old Course, my favourite track. In 20 years, when I’ve made my fortune, it’s got my name written all over it.
Name one thing that most people don’t know about you. I taught myself to juggle in half an hour when I was bored one day. I haven’t got past keeping three balls in the air but I can still do it, if called upon.
celtic community
! face your fear
L
ouise and Cerys from The Forum Health Club braved the GRIM: Night Terror earlier this year in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, raising £300 for this fantastic charity. These brave ladies tackled the 8 mile course which took them over the daunting terrain of the Army’s vehicle testing tracks in Aldershot, through creepy forests, clambering up sand dunes, wading through bogs waist high in freezing cold water all in the dead of night! Cerys said “it was even more challenging as it was snowing throughout the night! The atmosphere was fantastic though and there were over 1000 other volunteers with us. It was painful but enjoyable, so roll on the next adventure. “We are always looking for members to come and join us so drop in to The Forum Gym and have a chat about joining the next fundraiser.”
WIN
Celtic Community Making a difference
WAY FING GETA WIN A GOL
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go to in, simply w to ce n a For your ch lfcomp nor.com/go a -m ic lt e .c www 12. th June 20 is 30 te for entries Closing da
NEWBRIDGE CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
T
he Newbridge Charitable Foundation has been set up to coordinate the Celtic Manor’s charitable work to support Welsh charities, focusing on the South Wales area. The principal aims of the foundation are the advancement of education and training, promotion of healthcare and relief of sickness. Its two trustees, Simon Gibson and Dylan Matthews, meet every month to review all requests and award support where appropriate and possible. All charity requests should be emailed to newbridgecharitablefoundation@celtic-manor.com Page 27
World class players on a World class stage
ISPSHANDAWALESOPEN 31 May – 3 JUNE 2012 www.isps handawalesopen.com