PGAs OF EUROPE: GOLF IS BIGGER THAN HOLLYWOOD. LADIES EUROPEAN TOUR: USING GLAMOUR TO PROMOTE WOMEN’S GOLF GOLF GEAR: NEW DRIVERS, IRONS AND BALLS FOR 2008. SPECIAL FEATURE: JUSTIN ROSE. PLUS: FASHION, TIPS, TRAVEL AND MORE
FREE - ISSUE TWELVE - 2008
Nutritional Information: Digest news, reviews, fashion & interviews in the most stylish magazine designed to feed your golfing appetite
THE ELS CLUB
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Atalaya Golf & Country Club, Ctra. de BenahavĂs Km 0.7. 29688 Estepona, Costa del Sol, Spain
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Saturday 3rd May 2008 La Reserva Golf Club
Sunday 15th June Finca Cortesin Golf Resort
Sunday 13th July 2008 Aloha Golf Club
Sunday 10th August 2008 Los Naranjos Golf Club
Sunday, 14th September 2008 Santa Clara Golf Club
Saturday 27th September 2008 Fischer Annual Charity Gala
Sunday 12th October 2008 Marbella Club Golf Resort
Sunday 9th November 2008 La Reserva Golf Club
Sunday 14th December 2008 Almenara Golf Club
Sunday 11th January 2009 To be confirmed
Sunday 15th February 2009 The San Roque Club
Sunday 8th March 2009 Grand Final at La Zagaleta
Fischer Mercedes & Fischer 2 Selected Cars are proud to present the second season of the Fischer Open, a series of twelve amateur stableford tournaments played across the finest courses on the Costa del Sol. Fabulous prizes on offer include a brand new Mercedes for a hole-in-one!
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006 EDITOR’S LETTER
Golf is often described as a slow paced game. However as Dennis Shaw points out this issue, it’s development is anything but, and keeping abreast means our attention is often drawn away from our immediate surroundings. The start to a new year sees a period of time where The European Tour appears somewhat less than European, with tournaments taking place in China, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Malaysia and Korea. It is also impossible not to notice that Dubai is fast becoming the central hub for professional golf business, and some of this issue reflects that. With The European Tour increasing it’s affiliations, and vast amounts of money being invested in development there, the newly opened ‘The Els Club’ is yet another feather in the UAE’s cap. Not to mention the impending addition of Tiger Woods’ first ever golf course design, which we will hopefully get to show you more of in a future issue. Based on the Costa del Sol, and distributing to two of Europe’s most important golf tourist destinations, Spain and Portugal, our enthusiasm and commitment to these areas remains unchanged.
ISSUE 12 2nd of 5 editions for 2008
So as the year progresses, let’s not forget what we have here on our doorstep. Two tournaments in Portugal and two in Spain announce a welcome return of The European Tour in the coming months, heading towards a climax to the season which ends with the Portugal Masters, Mallorca Masters and the Volvo Masters. I often still hear the Costa del Sol being criticised for its high green fee prices - and although I’m sure that certain courses could lower them - in comparison to many top golf destinations there are plenty of great offers to be found.
Nick Senior Editor & Publisher ➲ www.eat-golf.com ➩ nick@eat-golf.com ✆ +34 699 958 528
My concern is that the boards responsible for promoting the area have become complacent in recent years, relying too heavily on the real estate and golf sectors to do their job for them. This needs to change rapidly if we are to avoid any drop-off in the foreign tourists so vital to the wealth of the area. I regularly see campaigns outside of Spain from countries putting forward the reasons for visiting them. Now is the time to remind people that we’re still here, the sun is still shining, and the golf is better than ever.
Michael Denker Publisher & Acc. Manager ➲ www.eat-golf.com ➩ michael@eat-golf.com ✆ +34 635 024 358
Nick Senior, Editor & Publisher.
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008 IN THIS ISSUE
FEATURES
016
From Fashion and Player Interviews to articles by The PGAs of Europe, Ladies European Tour and more.
GOLF & TRAVEL
068
Reviews of the finest golf courses plus ideas about where to go on your next golfing holiday.
GOLF GEAR
040
The latest equipment on the market. If you’re searching for a new club or gadget you’ll find it here.
GOLF BUSINESS
080
An in depth, behind the scenes look at the people and businesses involved in the game we play.
SPECIAL THANKS
YOUR GAME
052
Advice to improve your golf game including sports psychology, fitness, club fitting and pro tips.
EVENTS & LIFESTYLE Golf tournaments to play, how to relax after your round, news and events to watch out for.
094
010 CONTRIBUTORS
DENNIS SHAW l PGAs of EUROPE Currently Media consultant for the PGAs of Europe, having previously been UK sports writer for a number of national and provincial newspapers, including, for several years, Midland correspondent for The Times. A British Sports Journalist winner and also a Midlands Sports Writer of the Year. Author of two football books as a ghost-writer and formerly editor of Football Today. BETHAN CUTLER l LADIES EUROPEAN TOUR Media Manager for the Ladies European Tour. Bethan is the principal news and features writer for the Tour’s official website and responsible for the overall production of the Tour’s annual media guide. She also contributes to numerous publications as a photo journalist. Media point of contact for access to all players and officials. Mike Wilson l FREELANCE WRITEr Mike Wilson is a freelance journalist and copywriter based in Scotland. He travels extensively, covering golf and a range of other sports including sailing and tennis and works on behalf of blue-chip corporate clients including Volvo and Rolex as well as contributing to sports, lifestyle and in-flight magazines worldwide. GARY FIRKINS l WRITER & BROADCASTER Gary is also a golf public relations consultant with more than 10 years experience working in the media. He wrote for national consumer magazines for seven years, focusing on special interest titles and was deputy editor of Golf World magazine. He also has experience as a freelance journalist, editing an industry magazine and writing for a variety of publications and newspapers, including The Sunday Times. Sue Welbrock-Smith & Geoffrey Farmer Sue (Freelance Writer) has been writing about golf since 1990. Recognised as a European Golf & Travel Media writer and member of IAGTO’s Golf Travel Writers’ Association, she travels extensively with photographer partner; Geoffrey Farmer specializes in coverage of European Tour events on behalf of their major sponsors, and has contributed to various international publications. AIDAN BRADLEY l GOLF COURSE PHOTOGRAPHER Aidan was born in Cork, Ireland, where he lived for 21 years. He now resides in Santa Barbara, California, from where his work takes him to places that the most passionate golfer dreams of. Whatever the assignment, Aidan’s focus onlight and the surrounding natural environment consistently produces images that evoke a mood even non-golfers find attractive and compelling.
➲ www.pgae.com ➩ info@pgae.com ✆ +44 (0)1675 477 899
➲ www.ladieseuropeantour.com ➩ mail@ladieseuropeantour.com ✆ +44 (0)1625 611 444
➩ makingwordscount@btinternet.com ✆ Office: +44 1875 870 707 Mobile: +44 7780 924 440
➲ www.landmark-media.com ➩ gary@landmark-media.com ✆ +44 (0)1780 752 790
➩ s-g-farmer@iol.pt ✆ +351 917 820 111
➲ www.golfcoursephotography.com ➩ aidan@golfcoursephotography.com ✆ +1 805 962 8466
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Discover a great surprise this Easter
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Urb. Capanes Golf. Km. 3,7 Ctra. de Benahavís, 29679 Benahavís, Marbella, Malaga, Spain Telephone: (+34) 951 242 139 or (+34) 639 793 542. Email: reservas@elhigueralgolf.com
012 INSTRUCTION
ANNA RAWSON l PROFESSIONAL TOUR PLAYER Currently competing on the Ladies European Tour, Anna has a unique story - excelling in two very different careers - modeling and golfing. Now Anna combines all her passions, by wearing designer pieces such as Marc Jacobs, Chanel, Gucci and Tom Ford glasses while playing. She is a rarity in sports, with the perfect mix of femininity, raw athletic talent, and intelligence. ALLISON DYER l TOTAL SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY BSc MSc CPsychol, British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES) Accredited Sport Psychologist and British Psychological Society (BPS) Chartered Psychologist. Allison works as a consultant sport psychologist to the PGA EuroPro Tour, and Positive Golf (Elviria), the official winter training ground for players on the EuroPro Tour. SAM PLESHETTE l PGA PROFESSIONAL Sam started his career as a golf professional in October 1999. A trainee at Abbotsley Golf & Country Club in Cambridgeshire, UK, he began his PGA training in September 2002. After passing his final exams in October 2005 Sam was elected to full membership of the PGA in May 2006. He has since been working in Spain, and is now based at the El Chaparral Golf Academy. DAVID POULTON l KZG WORLD TOP 100 GOLF FITTER David was selected by KZG, the world’s leading manufacturer of custom pro-line golf equipment, as one of the World’s Top 100 Club Fitters. The top 100 represent those who are the most skilled, the most knowledgeable, and the most committed to the process of custom fitting golf equipment, marrying technical expertise with a distinctly personal touch. PATRICK BRADY l PGA PROFESSIONAL Patrick’s professional career began in 1991 at Sutton Coldfield golf club in Birmingham, UK. In 1996 he started work at Swingers driving range. After 5 years as a teaching pro working at Lavender Park golf center in Ascot, he moved to Holland based in Drenthe, coaching groups of people for the GVB exam. His dream to move to Spain was realised in 2003. JUAN BARBERIS l FITNESS & NUTRITION EXPERT Juan works with amateur and professional golfers to improve their “golf shape”. He conducts thorough assessments and provides individualised fitness and nutrition programs that enable golfers to enjoy the game more by remaining pain and injury free and also by hitting drives further and more accurately on a consistent basis.
If you have any questions for Anna, you can email her at: ➩ AskAnna@annarawson.net She will answer a couple of questions a month, and post the answers on her website: ➲ www.annarawson.com
➲ www.sportpsychologist.org.uk ➩ totalsportpsychology@fsmail.net ✆ UK +44 (0)7718 208 942 ✆ Spain (+34) 662 070 787
➲ www.golfelchaparral.com ➩ sam@golfelchaparral.com ✆ Spain (+34) 669 643 427
➲ www.golfimprovementcenter.nl ✆ Spain (+34) 685 990 138
➲ www.golfimprovementcenter.nl ✆ Spain (+34) 607 827 021 Appears in association with ➲ www.golf-us.com
➲ www.mygolfadvantage.com ➩ service@mygolfadvantage.com ✆ Spain (+34) 670 565 590
014 COMPETITION
WIN A PEAK PERFORMANCE Golf Lite jacket This stylish, lightweight shell jacket is easily compressible and designed for maximum freedom of movement, especially across the shoulders. A jacket that is useful in most situations, not only on the golf course. Features: • Two zippered hand pockets • Zippered inner pocket • Adjustable cuffs • Articulated sleeves • Velcro strap at cuff • Separate stow-away bag
HOW TO ENTER Send an email to: competition@eat-golf.com with your name, referencing Peak Performance Competition It really is that simple! The competition details and a link to the email are also available on our website: www.eat-golf.com
Enter our exclusive, free prize draw, for the chance to win a Golf Lite Jacket courtesy of Peak Performance, worth €229*
The winner will be chosen at random from all entries, and notified by email. We will print the name of the winner in the next issue of Eat Golf! *Recommended Retail Price
www.eat-golf.com Our newly launched site at www.eat-golf.com is home to all the information you could possibly want to know about the magazine. With details on how to subscribe, enter our competitions, and where to get hold of a copy - the site also features slideshows of back issues for you to browse. News & Event sections help keep you up to date, including details of tournaments we are involved in, such as the Fischer Open Golf Series.
Last issue, in association with TopFlite, we were offering a free sleeve of the latest Top-Flite golf balls to the first 100 readers who registered their details on our website. Thank you for your overwhelming interest, and we hope that the lucky winners enjoy their free gift. Whilst we would normally list the winners here, due to this being such a large give-away there isn’t room to print them all! We have therefore posted the list on our website at www.eat-golf.com
016 FEATURES
PROQUIP HYDRATECH
Featuring new wave, body-configured style with fusion fabric technology, this sharp-cut rain suit has clean, narrow lines and deluxe styling detail. It combines ProQuip’s award-winning Silk Touch, Ultralite and Liberty fabrics for virtually silent performance. ➲ www.proquipgolf.com
RALPH LAUREN
STELLA FASHION
Finca Cortesin The Spring-Summer Ralph Lauren collection is now in stock at the Finca Cortesin Pro-shop Boutique. This year there is a special emphasis on the Ladies apparel which was so successful in 2007. ➲ www.golfcortesin.es
CALLAWAY GOLF Successfully grown since 2005 the critically acclaimed adidas by Stella McCartney collaboration are introducing Golf as a new sports category within the performance range for the spring/summer 08 collection. Whether to brush up on skills or to start as a beginner, with the adidas by Stella McCartney golf range there is no restriction of elegance outside on the green. This segment is inspired by men’s silhouettes and traditional tailoring, combined with feminine details and grace. Soft stretch fabrics and
pristine smart polo’s fit perfectly with Codura jackets and underline the ideal proposition for the fusion of performance and style. In addition, the line consists of key looks for après sport e.g. on the way to the club house breaks. Highly functional golf footwear introduces the Garbato shoe that offers waterproof technology while showing great attention to details such as embroidery eyelets and a removable kiltie tongue allowing different style options. www.stellamccartney.com
Graeme McDowell has joined the Callaway Golf Staff Professional lineup, and will play a full complement of equipment including a Fusion® Technology Driver, X-Forged Irons, X Fairway Woods, X-Tour Wedges, Odyssey White Hot XG no.7 Putter & the new Tour iX Golf Ball. ➲ www.callawaygolf.com
018 FASHION
Peak fashion Peak Performance Golf Collection Spring 2008
PEAK PERFORMANCE 019
Peak Performance continues to bring functional, technical and yet fashionable garments to the golf course. For Spring 2008, they will continue to work with materials such as Gore-Tex, Windstopper, Primaloft and soft shells, using their expertise and technologies, like Seamless Technology, so often used in both their Ski and Golf collections.
Thanks to the focus on these technical details and materials, golfers are now able to concentrate on their game, rather than on their clothes. The colour palette is fresh and modern. For men, sporty bold colours like red, blue and orange are present, while in the women’s line, new accent colours of dark magenta, coral and apple green are mixed with neutrals such as white, black, brown, and beige. This season, the Golf Collection presents both new and updated patterns, like subtle tartan checks and young striped sweater styles. Classic argyles hold their traditional spot in the collection, but make room for modern and revived argyle patterns on comfortable light cotton jumpers, such as the King Course V-neck and the King Course Vest. Among the newcomers for spring 2008 are Supreme products, including the Supreme Golf Jacket and the Supreme Windshield, which are available in both men’s and women’s styles. The Supreme Golf Jacket is a superior two-layer Gore-Tex jacket with a unique clean-cut design. This versatile 3-in-1 product is made from an exclusive stretch material from the Gore-Tex PacLite series and features a mesh lining and a detachable ecofriendly PrimaLoft inner vest.
020 FASHION
A collection for both the classic and the modern golfer.
Another new jacket is the Hybrid Golf Jacket from their popular Hipe quality selection with optional matching pants. The cut and design of this golf jacket are perfect for golf, with clean lines, seamless shoulders and a super-stretchy fabric that is water and wind resistant while providing good breatheability. The classic best seller Dave Pants now come in new patterns and materials, and for the fashionconscious players, the slim fitting Colin Stretch Pants in Schoeller 3XDRY are a must. For women, many new light jersey styles with feminine cuts and details as well as new knit techniques for heavy knit have been introduced. The W Golf Short Sleeve is an example of a golf top that has a sporty yet feminine design. Buttons in front and a creased bust give this top a trendy, womanly look. Other examples are the Fairway Short Sleeve and the Fairway Sleeveless, both made from an eco-friendly bamboo material that provides a softer feel and optimum temperature regulation. The fit is relaxed, with a longer-fitting body and a drawstring at the bottom. A real eye-catcher is the W Bib Dress, a new dress with a young, attractive design. The Golf Collection also includes a wide range of golf accessories such as caps, brims, belts and socks. New additions to the accessory selection this spring are the Golf Umbrella, cool Golf Suspenders and a well-needed Water Bottle for hot days on the course.
www.peakperformance.com
PEAK PERFORMANCE 021
022 FEATURES
Picture by Chris Turvey for Rolex
JUSTIN ROSE 023
the scent of success By Mike Wilson
With victories at the beginning and end of a 2007 season that saw Justin Rose claim a maiden European Order of Merit crown and rise to seventh in the world, it’s onwards and upwards for the South African-born Englishman with a ‘major,’ a Ryder Cup place and number two in the world all in his sights.
It could be the longest apprenticeship in professional golf, but after bursting onto the scene as a 17-year-old amateur with a fourth place and the Silver Medal at the 1998 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale and turning professional the very next day, almost a decade on, Justin Rose can hardly be considered an overnight success. But, in professional golf speak, what he would consider to have been a ‘solid’ year, 2007 became his best yet. Victory in the Volvo Masters at Valderrama also earned him a maiden European Tour Order of Merit and might just have added the prefix ‘rock’ to ‘solid’ - appropriately within sight of Gibraltar.
His fourth Valderrama Volvo Masters appearance had echoes of compatriot Paul Casey’s 2006 dual campaign for the tour championship title and the Harry Vardon Trophy, with a bout of sickness, even on a saline drip, but an opening round ace brought some colour back to his pallid cheeks. Losing a four shot final round lead might have sunk the younger, less robust, more fragile Rose but instead, after tying with compatriot and friend Simon Dyson and Dane Søren Kjeldsen on one-under-par, the only players in the red, Rose climbed the mountain a second time. A 15ft birdie putt on the second extra hole earned him his biggest pay day to date, US$974.326.
024 FEATURES
“It’s such a relief, really, to have won the Volvo Masters, and it’s a huge honour to be the Order of Merit champion, the European number one, the icing on the cake for an incredible year,” he said, adding, “I went through in the space of 20 minutes, feeling like I was not going to be in the situation with either of these two trophies to clinching both of them.”
With season earnings on both sides of the Atlantic a fraction under US$5.5million, just one missed cut in only 22 outings, did his decision to go for quality over quantity, especially nursing a suspect back pay dividends? “That was the key to the year for me, consistency. That’s why the Volvo Masters win was so valuable. I’ve had a lot of consistent top 10 finishes and three seconds and I think all that was missing from the year was a win,” he said, looking immediately to the future by saying, “I’m going to set my goals even higher, to move further up the World Rankings.”
Picture courtesy TaylorMade Golf
JUSTIN ROSE 025
Rose, who married long-term girlfriend Kate in 2006 is more settled than at any stage in his career so far and admitted it was now down to marginal improvements, explaining, “I don’t think I’ve got to change anything, which is the exciting thing. I’ve just got to keep getting a tiny bit better. I think golf’s getting to a stage where it’s the tiny improvements that are going to make the biggest differences at this stage, obviously at moving onwards and upwards.”
“I don’t think I’ve got to change anything, which is the exciting thing. I’ve just got to keep getting a tiny bit better.”
But, valuable though a Volvo Masters may be and with it the pride of finishing the season first amongst equals, Rose is far from satisfied or fulfilled inside the ropes. Asked how good he could become, the Florida based Rose admitted, “I don’t really know yet. My goal at the start of the year (2007) was to get inside the Top 20 in the world, let’s say I’m
going to achieve Top-10, so really I haven’t quite got my head around it just yet. But certainly before next year starts and in the coming months, I’ll reset my goals.” “I think number two (in the world) is a legitimate goal,” he predicts, conceding, “I think number one is a fair way off right now. But for the rest of the normal guys, two is a good goal.” As to the question of a ‘major,’ golf’s ultimate currency for the super-rich aristocracy Rose now belongs to, he says, “I still have that dream. That’s really what drives me. I think (winning) majors, that’s really important and ultimately I want my career to include a major championship, more than one, hopefully.” Five years in a win-less wilderness, the loss to leukaemia in 2002 of his father, coach and best
026 FEATURES
“The rewards are fantastic, but you have to earn your way in golf as in life...”
x for Role is Tu rve y ge by Chr pa is th n O Pictu res
friend Ken, South African born Englishman Justin Rose might just have withered on a vine of self-doubt and lack-lustre golf. But the 26-year-old has proved what a fickle game golf is, and, looking back perhaps it all came too soon and too quickly for the budding professional. A Walker Cup debut at 17, that precocious fourth place and the prestigious R&A Silver Medal in his 1998 Open Championship debut as an amateur prompted Rose to cash in his chips and turn professional the very next day. That triggered something of a rollercoaster ride for the rookie, from the outset, a string of 21 successive missed cuts as a professional certain to sap the strength of the most seasoned sportsman, never mind the greenest golfer on the toughest circuits in the world.
But famine turned to feast as the victories so many had predicted, four in all, came in 2002, two in the country of his birth, one in his adopted home of England and the other in the land of the rising sun, the dawning of a new shooting star, rising to burn bright on planet golf. Then disaster struck, the sort of body blow that would have holed a lesser young man well below the waterline. His father Ken, his mentor, mate and occasional caddie died after a battle against leukaemia, an experience that surely put young Justin’s battles on the golf course in context, and subsequent results speak for themselves. “2002 was a great year for me, and it demonstrated I was emerging from what was a difficult start to my professional career, four victories around the world, ninth in the European Tour Order of
JUSTIN ROSE 027
anagemen o Event M s for Volv to ka La by Paul Pictu res
Merit, top 25 in two majors, tied in fifth on my US Open debut in 2003, and then Dad passed away, and on and off the golf course, I felt the roof fell in a bit on me,” reflects the open, frank, approachable young Englishman who, under the tutelage of a new coach Nick Bradley, enjoying married life and realising his enormous potential at last. “I’m enjoying life again, on and off the golf course and within the ropes, I’m more mature, more focused and yet also more relaxed, appreciating my decision to rejoin the European Tour whilst continuing to play regularly in the US, it’s the best of both worlds.” Throughout the bad times, Rose himself never subscribed to the ‘wilting rose,’ soubriquet, but did admit slipping down the rankings was a huge motivation for him. “I’d missed the big tournaments, the US Masters, the WGC events, even the British Open and I did not like that, but you have two choices,
t
to sulk, or get on with it, the latter the only realistic option,” says the 6’ 2”, soft-spoken, articulate Rose. Having missed out on a Ryder Cup debut at the K Club in 2006, it is clear Rose wants a part of the Team Europe experience his contemporaries and compatriots Paul Casey, Luke Donald, Ian Poulter and David Howell have savoured ahead of him. “Sure, Ryder Cup is something I’d love to experience. I love team golf and played my third World Cup with Poults in China, loved the Walker Cup set-up, but the only way to ensure Ryder Cup qualification is to perform well in the big tournaments,” he says, admitting, “It’s a marathon and not a sprint, and whilst I have an eye on Valhalla, you have to earn the right to represent Europe.” Looking backwards in professional sport can be as risky as a mountaineer looking down, self-pity as dangerous as to attract denunciation as a ‘spoiled
rich kid’ and one suspects the words ‘retrospection’ and ‘regret’ simply do not register in the Justin Rose lexicon. “No point looking back, just learn from past experiences and move on,” he says with the selfassurance of one who practices what he preaches, and self-pity, no way. I lead a very privileged life, doing a job I love with some great people around me, friends, colleagues, family,” he reflects. Justin Rose, one feels sure, spending any time at all in his company, has no desire to be catagorised as one of 75 PGA Tour players and 25 European Tour members in the US$10millionplus career earnings, without the hard currency of some big titles to his name. “The rewards are fantastic, but you have to earn your way in golf as in life and, although it’s a cliché, titles and not money are what count, earn you respect and the measure by which you are ultimately judged.”
028 FEATURES
Pictures on this page courtesy TaylorMade Golf
Off the golf course, Rose and his wife Kate, who has travelled the world have completed their third home at Lake Nona near Orlando, Florida (the others are at Fancourt Estate, George, South Africa and a luxury apartment overlooking the Thames in South London), where his neighbours include Ian Poulter, Retief Goosen and Trevor Immelman. “Building the house has been fun for us both, a real joint project, a collaboration of our combined skills. Had I not been a golfer, I’d probably have been an architect, and Kate has great flair and imagination with colours and textures and it’s a great base to have in the US,” he explains. And, just like the architect he might have been, at last, Justin Rose sounds like a man with a plan, and given the on and off-course experience this quiet, slightly understated young golfer has packed into just nine years as a pro, no-one should doubt either his ability, application or intention to build on the real success he has recently begun to scent. Only time will tell just how good Rose will become, but few would bet against him coming up smelling of roses.
ROSE Resumé Born: Johannesburg, South Africa, 30th July 1980
Professional debut tournament: TNT Dutch Open (Tied 69th)
Residences: London, England. Lake Nona, Orlando, Florida, USA. Fancourt Estate, George, South Africa
Highest finishes in Majors: Tied 4th, Open Championship, 1998 Tied 5th, US Open Championship, 2003 Tied 5th, US Masters 2007
Dimensions: Height: 6’ 2 1/2” (189cm), Weight: 12st 11lb (82kg)
Professional victories: 2002 Victor Chandler British Masters 2002 Chunichi Crowns, Japan 2002 Nashua Masters, South Africa 2002 Dunhill Championship, South Africa 2006 Mastercard Australian Masters 2007 Volvo Masters
Plays: Right-handed. Hit first golf shot aged 11 months old Playing Progress: Broke 70 aged 11-years-old, Handicap +3 aged 14 Amateur Record: Silver Medal, leading amateur, 1998 British Open Winner Peter McEvoy Trophy, 1998 Winner, St Andrews Links Trophy, 1997 Winner, English Boys Strokeplay Championship, 1995 Winner, McGregor Trophy, 1995 Turned professional: 1998 (plus-3)
Highest rankings: European Tour Order of Merit, 1st, 2007 US Tour Money List, 19th, 2007 World Golf Rankings, 7th, November 2007 Hobbies: Tennis, table-tennis, soccer, cricket, cars, music Sponsors: Taylor Made, Adidas, Rolex, The Golfers Club, Tradition, US Tax Advisors, golfalot.com
030 FEATURES
golf bigger is
than
Forgive me, dear readers, for starting off a golfing article by referring to washing machines, dishwashers, cookers and microwaves, but these items of domestic, labour-saving necessity are, in fact, relevant to the subject under review.
By Dennis Shaw, PGAs of Europe
PGAs of EUROPE 031
That subject is money. And the appliances just mentioned are reported to form the only segment of corporate America - and that probably relates closely to corporate world - that is financially bigger than golf. Just ponder that for a second. OK? Has it sunk in yet? Well, now I’ve a real blockbuster of a statement: financially speaking, GOLF IS BIGGER THAN HOLLYWOOD. Assuming that the figures in front of me are accurate, (and since their source is an impeccable one as shown on the graphics, I’ve no reason to doubt it), then you can forget Nicole Kidman, Tom Cruise, Titanic and all that stuff. If you want to talk top dollar then, second only in the US market place to carpet sweepers, tellies and the like, comes golf. The figures to support such a huge observation are elsewhere on these pages and I’m excluding them here on the basis that the more zeros you add to zillions and trillions in fiscal matters the more confusing it all becomes.
So we’ll leave all that to the auditors and market researchers to sort out, and maybe dispute, and just think about why we can even contemplate how golf has grown so much in recent years that, rightly or wrongly, it can even be debated at such a level. Just think about it: you’re preparing for your regular weekend four ball. You don your special apparel... trousers or skirt, shirt or blouse, depending on gender, sweater, maybe even logo socks. You load into your car a set of clubs, in a bag, possibly with a trolley, one requiring a battery, maybe. You may stop off at the garage and fill up with petrol, buy a snack for halfway around the course. At the club you put on your golf shoes, unearth your glove, get out your bag of practice balls, some might have a lesson with the pro. If the weather is bad out come the waterproofs and the umbrella. Some hire a buggy, and in that buggy there may be a GPS system. At the club there are staff who earn their money from golf... PGA pros, greenkeepers, admin people, bar and kitchen staff, drinks, food.
Once you start trying, as I just have, to think of all the ways that golf contributes to world economies, it truly never ends.
If it’s a pay-as-you-play course you’ve a green fee to pay... or maybe you paid for an annual membership... and that’s a few bob, make no mistake. Heavens above you haven’t hit a ball in earnest yet, but you and a few million others around the world represent part of a global golf economy that is inflating in size faster even than Tiger Woods’ investment portfolio. And we’ve only talked about the handicap golfer. How much do you add on for the top professional stuff, all those tours with huge prize funds, the sponsors and their guests, the golf industry and their costs, the players with the travel and accommodation, the spectators, entry fees, their catering, their clothes. Golf is expanding in popularity as never before with markets in Eastern Europe, Australia, Asia including China, the Far East and is getting bigger and bigger all over the place, by the year with so many new courses being built... Turkey, Russia, Bulgaria, Poland etcetera, etcetera... that it’s almost beyond comprehension. It was reported by Sports Marketing Surveys in 2006 that ‘on average’ eighty-three new golf courses are completed in Europe each year. Also, don’t forget, around those courses, almost inevitably now, there emerges a luxury hotel and high-quality housing developments requiring roads and the necessary infrastructure of electricity, gas, water. (Plenty of work there for bricklayers, plumbers, carpenters, road surfacing crews and all the other sundry trades folk). Once you start trying, as I just have, to think of all the ways that golf contributes to world economies, it truly never ends. We haven’t even got around yet to TV, radio, newspapers, books, videos, training aids, the Orlando Trade Show, the Munich Trade Show, computer games.
032 FEATURES
The U.S. Golf Economy Compared with Other Industries’ Sales
($ billions)
Furniture and home furnishings (retail)
$74.1
Electronics and appliances (retail)
$70.2
Golf (including core and enabled industries)
$62.2
Motion pictures and sound recording
$57.8
Amusement, gambling and recreation
$55.9
Mining (except oil and gas)
$51.6 Source: SRI, Golf 20/20 and The PGA of America
I recall once that the Dave Thomas, the former leading world player and now a semi-retired golf course designer, observing in the quiet manner of his, that wherever golf took a hold, affluence followed in that region. It’s true isn’t it? You can’t say that about football, cricket, cinema or any other activity that I can think of except, of course, tourism, and golf is playing an ever more significant part in that particular activity. At the risk of being dubbed a ‘starry-eyed optimist’, and where golf is concerned I admit it with brass knobs on, all I can see for golf on a global, rather than local perspective, in the foreseeable future, is growth, growth, growth. And then some... Due to my good fortune in being closely associated with the PGAs of Europe, and hearing all that it does to promote and spread the game by encouraging new countries to start with the tried and tested structure of a three-year training programme for PGA professionals, it is the only conclusion one can reach. We hear a great deal now, and rightly so, of the explosion of interest in Eastern Europe... Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Russia and surrounding countries, but the story doesn’t end there.
South America is already making a significant impact on European golf with the Chilean Felipe Aguilar having followed the Argentinean lead by winning the recent Jakarta Astro Indonesian Open. There will be others...
Throughout Scandinavia, from Sweden to Denmark, from Norway to Finland, and even across to Iceland, where the golfing story started sooner than in Eastern Europe, for political reasons, new courses are being built at this very moment, and newcomers are taking their first swing.
OK, the figures shown here are impressive but beyond them, when you take into account all the spin offs referred to in the beginning of this article, it is impossible to comprehend just how massive golf has become in the world economy.
What the general public don’t hear so much about is the way golf has taken root in South America. Argentina has been producing fine players for fifty years or more but in the last ten years or so the Golf Development Programme, (a joint initiative between The R&A and the PGAsE and funded by surpluses from The Open Championship), has taken Consultants/Tutors into such countries as Brazil, Chile, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, Uruguay, and others, including in Central America.
To quote a catch-phrase from Jimmy Durante, a Hollywood favourite of yesteryear, before golf had the impertinence to become a bigger money-spinner, “You Ain’t Seen Nuthin’ yet...”
Golf’s Contribution to the European Economy* $US 10,002,660,000
Existing Facilities Employment
3,870,000,000
Golf Equipment
1,612,500,000
Course Construction & Renovation
752,070,000
Golf Tourism
2,354,250,000
Advertising & Media
1,019,100,000
Professional Golf Events
258,129,000
Total Direct Impact
$US 19,868,709,000
Total Impact w./ multiplier
$US 39,737,418,000 *Based on Euro to US dollar exchange rate of $1.29 Source: Sports Marketing Surveys and PGA of Great Britain & Ireland
Note: Some of the facts and figures published here are taken from presentations made by Sandy Jones, the chairman of the PGAs of Europe at the Annual Congress, and at the Orlando Golf Show.
034 FEATURES Picture from Sophie Sandalo’s 2008 Calendar
to promote women’s golf
By Bethan Cutler, Ladies European Tour
This year’s Australian golf tournaments - the first two full field events on the Ladies European Tour’s 2008 calendar - were unashamedly marketed using sex appeal.
LADIES EUROPEAN TOUR 035
“The Heath is on!” was the slogan for February’s MFS Women’s Australian Open at Kingston Heath Golf Club in Melbourne, where certain publicity activities were designed to set heart beats racing. Meanwhile, a week later, “The Sisters of Swing” were down under for the ANZ Ladies Masters at Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast, where the mixture of sunshine and humidity brought out all the latest in summer style. There was some top rate golf on display - with two first class champions in Karrie Webb and Lisa Hall. On the subject of glamour, Executive chairman of the Australian Opens, Paul McNamee, said: “We want to showcase the glamour on and off the course, let spectators get closer to the action, and increase the information flow via world’s best practise - literally change the experience for golfing fans and first timers to golf.” The launch of the 2008 MFS Women’s Australian Open was held at Melbourne’s Docklands on a three million dollar yacht, with some of the more visually appealing golfers among those pictured posing in floaty dresses. The photo shoots were designed to bolster the galleries but in addition, there were on course fan friendly initiatives, such as a fashion show, a pamper lounge, gift bags and makeover sessions. (However ironically, the most popular extra on course activity was the free golf lessons with the professionals.) At one time, women’s professional golf was marketed almost exclusively on the basis of the game. Nowadays, it’s not all about fairways and greens.
The original glamour girl of golf, Australian Jan Stephenson, was on course to give her views on the marketing of women’s golf. Stephenson, one of the first players to produce a calendar in 1986, was famously pictured naked in a bathtub, with just enough of her body obscured by golf balls for it to be considered decent. “My whole career was sold that way,” she said. “Women’s sport world-wide, and this is the reason that the LPGA is doing so well in the States right now, is that you still have to market with sex appeal. It is not just women’s golf. All sports are marketed with sex appeal. “Until women support women’s sport, for sport, and it is still 70 per cent watched by men - men are visual. It would not matter that Lorena is fantastic, that she is a super star, the best No. 1 I have seen in a long, long time, but all they want to talk about is how she looks,” Stephenson said. “I speak to a lot of women’s organisations and they ask why we have to do that. I tell them it is their fault. They need to go out and support women’s events. Why is my gallery 90 per cent men? That is the problem if the media does not get behind it. We need ratings and we need coverage. It has to be about personalities and sex appeal but the girls these days get it.” It was back in 2005 when Italian golfer Sophie Sandolo first released her nude calendar, bringing her instant fame in golfing circles and reportedly paying off her annual expenses. Natalie Gulbis’ bikini calendar was one of the best sellers in the United States the same year and she now has her own reality television show which airs on The Golf Channel.
More and more players are capitalising on their physical attributes to attract new sponsors, but it is not a bad thing according to Laura Davies. She says: “Basically they are all great golfers that look good. They are not people that look good and play golf; it’s the other way around. It’s just fortunate for us that some of our best players now are good looking girls as well and people like to see the girls playing, which is fine by me. It doesn’t make any difference. “They don’t sell the men’s tour on the ugly ones. They sell it on the good looking ones. You see all the posters up. I think it’s lucky for them that Tiger is a really good looking bloke.” Australia’s number one golfer, Karrie Webb, gave her take on the matter. “I’ve never felt that great about my body I guess to parade it in that way but you know I think you take any opportunity you can to promote yourself, to promote the sport, so I’m happy as long as it’s done tastefully and within the respect of the game of golf,” she said. “For me, I want to be known as a great player. When I retire it’s what I achieved on the golf course and that’s just what I believe in. Again I don’t begrudge someone for making some money because they look great.” Karrie claimed her 45th career victory at the MFS Women’s Australian Open in early February. For her, that philosophy is clearly paying off. For more information about Sophie Sandalo and her calendar visit: www.sophie-sandolo.nl To find out more about the Ladies European Tour and its players and tournaments, log on to: www.ladieseuropeantour.com
036 FEATURES
Chinese Puzzle By Mike Wilson Photos by Paul Lakatos for Volvo Event Management
Austria’s Markus Brier bore the Volvo China Open title with aplomb throughout the Year of the Pig, but will it be a tale of a successful defence or a new champion in the Year of the Rat in Beijing?
Austrian Markus Brier is a European Tour golfer diametrically-opposed to flamboyant characters like Ian Poulter or Miguel Angel Jiménez, no trademark fancy pants or ponytail, no pronouncements about his proximity to Tiger, a man who does not stand out in a crowd. Except, of course in his native Austria where golfers have a mountain to climb in achieving airtime and print space over downhill ski champions and Euro 2008. 39-year-old Brier, already a threetime Austrian Open champion went to the Volvo China Open in Shanghai last year arguably as a
makeweight but emerged as the face on the front of millions of Chinese newspapers, Volvo China Open champion, probably better known in Shanghai than in Sevilla, in Beijing more than Barcelona. A player who, by nature goes quietly about his business looked somewhat overwhelmed, actually and metaphorically by the traditional champion’s golden jacket but let there be no doubt, he deserved every one of the US$333,330 he won in Shanghai, a five-shot victory margin forged out of two finishing 67s, a proverbial Viennese waltz to win the open golf championship of the Middle Kingdom.
“I have always enjoyed visiting China, playing golf and taking in the culture,” says the man who would dearly love to celebrate his 40th birthday by becoming the first Austrian to represent Europe in the Ryder Cup at Valhalla in September. “As well as winning the Volvo China Open, I went on to achieve a top-five finish at the Asian Open the following week, and it may take a repeat performance this year and another big victory to force myself into the Ryder Cup rankings,” predicts the quiet unassuming Austrian. “Going into a tournament as defending champion is nice as it
VOLVO CHINA OPEN 037
means you have won something big the previous year, but by the time you are on the first tee on the first morning, it counts for nothing,” he says, adding, “At that stage, all men are equal and the title is up for grabs, the player with the lowest aggregate at the end of four rounds taking home the spoils.” History is not in the man from Vienna’s favour; not one of the previous 13 champions has mounted a defence worthy of the name but the Austrian is pragmatic, admitting, “I’m not superstitious and I have as good a chance of winning it again as any of the other 155 guys in the field and if I do, I’ll be twice as pleased as I was last year.” And, he’ll be a bit richer too, the prize fund up to US$2.2million, the first prize worth another US$33,330, good business in the heart of Beijing’s central Business District from which the venue, Asia’s only TPC layout, the magnificent Beijing CBD International Golf Club takes its name. “The money counts for nothing,” says Brier, who passed the US$4million mark in career prize money with 17th place in last
year’s Volvo Masters, explaining, “It’s just too dangerous to start thinking, ‘this putt is worth such and such,’ so you play one shot at a time, one hole at a time, one round at a time, boring but true.” So, of Brier who made the rest of the field, the cream of the Asian Tour and the lean and hungry European brigade not engaged in Masters business at Augusta as sick as pigs with a fine five-shot win last year, who, if not him will be the rat’s whiskers at the start of Beijing’s big year of sport? An Asian victory is overdue, but 2006 Volvo China Open champion Jeev Milkha Singh misses out this time around as he stays in the USA after Augusta. The next logical option, home hero and Asian Tour Order of Merit holder Liang Wenchong could be hampered by his 20-hour flight from his US Masters debut to try to claim a first Volvo China Open. “It will be tough,” admits the Chinese number one, but he says, “I’m hoping I can make the cut at
Augusta, play the weekend and arrive in Beijing confident from that and I know the Beijing CBD course well enough not to need too many practice rounds.” Of the Asian contingent though, Thai star Thongchai Jaidee, who has fared well in four successive Volvo Masters appearances at Valderrama must be the pick of the bunch, no US Masters distractions although Beijing’s cool spring weather could mitigate against him. Considered too good a player never to have won the open golf championship of China, Thongchai says, “I had a top 10 finish in 2006 and top 50 last year, but the Volvo China Open is a big one and I’d love to win it at some stage in my career.” But history would suggest a European victory; only one of the four events since co-sanctioning was introduced in 2004 has led to an Asian win, Jeev Milkha Singh in 2006 but for the Europeans donning the gold jacket, only good things have followed.
...not one of the previous thirteen champions has mounted a defence...
038 FEATURES Volvo China Open - Five to Follow Markus Brier (Austria) The Volvo China Open has never been defended successfully, but the man from Vienna retained has won his ‘home’ Austrian Open crown three times and is be keen to make a little bit of golfing history in then Middle Kingdom, as well as the European Ryder Cup line-up.
With an agreement to sponsor the event through to 2015, Volvo’s vision could see the open golf championship of China significantly elevated in status...
Unheralded Welshman Stephen Dodd, with 10 visits back to Q School before his Volvo China Open win in 2004, followed with two more big titles on the European Tour and the World Cup of Golf the following year - whilst 2005 champion Paul Casey effectively resurrected a faltering career with victory in Shenzhen in 2005. The Volvo China Open, complete with four pre-qualifying events introduced three-years-ago, fills what some consider to be the ‘graveyard date,’ immediately after the US Masters and never quite attracts the so called ‘marquee names,’ of Els, Montgomerie, Goosen and Jiménez, for one reason and one reason alone - the controversial subject of appearance money. Says Klas Magnusson, Acting Head of Volvo Event Management (Golf), “We have consistently been able to increase the prize money for the Volvo China Open because Volvo in golf has always been about a couple of founding principles, namely that the prize money is entirely performance related, and that Volvo-sponsored golf tournaments represent a unique fusion of quality, of venue and event production, a world-class
ambience, true sportsmanship and intense competition.” With an agreement to sponsor the event through to 2015, Volvo’s vision could see the open golf championship of China significantly elevated in status, and, with 2010 the Year of the Tiger, what price a certain Mr Woods tempting providence in two years time? Stranger things have happened, but, for now, the superstitious amongst us, looking to Chinese mythology for the identity of the 2008 Volvo China Open champion, people born in a Year of the Rat demonstrate characteristics of smartness, a magnetic personality, someone well-liked, who is affable, quick-witted, selfish, protective and calculating. A golfer born 1961/62, 1973/74 or 1985/86 might provide a perfect symmetry and a hint as to 2008 Volvo China Open champion. Some who fit the bill include Philippines-based Canadian veteran Rick Gibson (47), flying Dutchman Robert-Jan Derksen and Englishman David Lynn, both 35 and regulars in China, or either of the 23-year-olds, Scots rookie Lloyd Saltman and Chinese starlet Wu Ashun.
Liang Wenchong (China) The Chinese number-one is torn between his US Masters debut and a first Volvo China Open win but if he makes the Augusta cut, the 29-yearold could fall between two stools. Damien McGrane (Ireland) Perhaps not an obvious choice but the unassuming Irishman, often overshadowed by his compatriots has not missed a cut all season, travels well, finished second in India and has a decent Volvo China Open record. Likewise, his compatriot Graeme McDowell, if he plays could pose a threat having finished second to Brier in Shanghai last year and fourth in the season-ending Volvo Masters at Valderrama. Thomas Björn (Denmark) Probably the European class act in the field, the great Dane has traditionally played the Volvo China Open and finished runner-up behind Stephen Dodd in 2006. Thongchai Jaidee (Thailand) The talisman of Thailand is too good a golfer never to have won the Volvo China Open, much may depend on the Beijing spring weather as the ex-paratrooper plays his best golf in warmer weather. The Volvo China Open takes place at Beijing CBD International Golf Club from 17th - 20th April 2008. For more information visit: www.volvochinaopen.com
040 GOLF GEAR
2008 Rules : Are you driving legally? Is the new Rule on drivers applicable to amateur, Club level golfers? Yes. The new Rule will apply to all golfers, of all abilities, in all forms of play. This includes Club level golfers playing in their Club competitions and medals. Can individual Golf Clubs decide to allow the use of non-conforming drivers via a Local Rule or Condition of Competition? No. A Committee has no power to waive a Rule of Golf (see Rule 33-1). Is it up to the Committee to ensure that I am using a driver which conforms to the new Rules? No. It is your responsibility to ensure that your equipment conforms to the Rules of Golf. Where can I find out if my driver conforms after 1 January 2008? The R&A has compiled and published the following lists based on the 2008 Rules: - List of Conforming Driver Heads - List of Non-conforming Drivers I am a Club level golfer and my driver is not included on either of the published driver lists. Does this mean that I cannot use it now? No. As long as there is no strong evidence to suggest that your driver does not conform to the new Rule, you may continue to use it. In the avoidance of any doubt, you should contact the manufacturer of the club or The R&A.
WHAT TO DRIVE
Perhaps more than ever, the new ranges of clubs from golf manufacturers have good reason for being. Having developed driver technology to such an extent that it had to be banned by golf’s governing bodies, it was time for the designers to put their thnking caps on again. For those who’ve yet to change, you’re in luck - as the latest drivers on offer are now focused on increasing the size of the face in order to provide greater confidence and forgiveness.
Club Car are catering for driving of a different sort. Four years after introducing the most advanced golf car in its history, Club Car has introduced two new models for 2008. Building on the huge success of the Precedent, which launched in 2004, company officials say the Precedent i2 represents the next generation in golf car innovation and performance. Club Car provides fleet, turf, hospitality and financing solutions for golf, agricultural, recreational and industrial markets. For more information visit: www.clubcar.com
What is the difference between the Rule on drivers and the Driving Club Condition? The new Rule on drivers requires that the driver does not exceed a characteristic time of 239 microseconds (plus tolerance of 18 microseconds). This is the limit on a club’s spring effect. The Condition requires that the driver the player uses not only conforms to this Rule, but is also included on the List of Conforming Driver Heads. I purchased my club in 1996 and I cannot find it on either of the published lists. Does it conform? All models of driver manufactured prior to 1999 are assumed to conform to the Rules for ‘spring effect’ and are deemed to be on the Conforming List provided they have not been modified post manufacture or previously ruled not to conform for another reason. For more information, frequently asked questions and lists of Conforming Driver Heads and Non-conforming Drivers visit the R&A website: www.randa.org
Kit yourself out for the season S TO C K I S T O F A L L M A J O R B R A N D S
Design ©Eat Publishing S.L.
C A L L AWAY O P T I F I T & TAY LO R M A D E S E L E C T F I T - AU T H O R I S E D R E TA I L E R
El Paraiso Golf
El Paraiso Hotel
Atalaya Golf
Benavista Urb. El Pilar
Estepona
E15 / N340 Mediterranean sea
San Pedro Crown Plaza Hotel
Opening hours: Mon-Fri, 9.30 - 8pm. Sat, 9.30 - 2pm Centro Comercial Mustang, Locales 11-13, Urbanización El Pilar, 29680 Estepona, (Málaga) Spain Tel: (+34) 952 88 25 23. Fax: (+34) 952 88 03 14 Email: golfriends@wanadoo.es / www.golfriendshop.com
042 GOLF GEAR
Titleist Advanced Performance Irons
SRP: The AP1 irons are as available as a 7 club set (4-PW) with a suggested retail price of £525 (UK) The AP2 irons are as available as an 8 club set (3-PW) with a suggested retail price of £775 (UK) The ZM and ZB forged irons are available as a 7 club set (4-PW) with a suggested retail price of £750 (UK)
Street date : March 15th 2008 ➲ www.titleist.com
NEW FOR 2008 043
Focus on Feel and Performance with the New Titleist AP1, AP2, ZB Forged and ZM Forged Irons.
Staying true to its heritage of designing performance enhancing golf clubs for better and aspiring golfers, Titleist introduces four new irons for 2008. The new Titleist AP1 and AP2 irons are multimaterial, dual cavity designs that provide ‘Advanced Performance You Can Feel’. The new Titleist ZB Forged is a blended cavity-tomuscle back iron while the new Titleist ZM Forged is a traditional muscle back iron. The new irons will be available in Europe from March 15th 2008 onwards. “We designed these irons with a focus on feel and performance,” said Jeff Harmet, President, Cobra Golf and Titleist Clubs. “The Titleist iron audience ranges from world-class Tour players to aspiring golfers who demand performance with great feel. Each of our new irons is clearly positioned and provides best in class performance for its intended target golfer.” Following extensive research with a wide range of golfers, Titleist discovered clearly defined average ball speed gaps of approximately 10 miles per hour between Tour players, club professionals and low single digit handicap amateurs, and high single digit to low double digit amateurs. “It is important to note that average ball speed gaps between player groups have widened over the years,” said Harmet. “The average ball speed of a PGA Tour player is 165+ miles per hour, while
the average ball speed of a 5-9 handicap player is 145 mph – a 20+ mph difference. As a result of our research, we have designed four distinct irons that will focus on performance and feel and optimise launch conditions and ball flight based on the targeted players’ ball speed range.” “The advanced dual cavity design and multi-material construction of the new Titleist AP1 and AP2 irons utilizing a dense tungsten nickel alloy in the back and sole allowed us to optimise launch conditions for a larger range of swing speeds from Tour player to aspiring golfer,” said Dan Stone, Vice President, Research and Development, Titleist Golf Clubs. “We were able to do this while maintaining the traditional soft yet solid ‘Titleist feel’ that players have come to expect from Titleist irons.”
Advanced performance, multimaterial, dual cavity, contemporary cast irons providing looks, feel, shot control, and higher flight with forgiveness. For the skilled golfer with enough performance to easily reach the aspiring serious golfer.
Titleist AP2 Irons are advanced performance, multi-material, dual cavity, chrome plated technical forging for the skilled, single digit golfer who wants contemporary iron technology with traditional solid feel, looks and shot control.
High performance, blended cavity-to-muscle back iron, forged with 1025 carbon steel and bright chrome plating for traditional feel, superior looks and shot control for the competitive and highly skilled golfer.
The Titleist Leadership Team has worked extensively with players at the Oceanside Test Facility in California and other locations to introduce the new irons to its Tour staff in preparation for the new season. “The feedback on the new irons from the players with whom we have worked has been extremely encouraging and effusively positive,” said Stone. We anticipate our Tour staff gravitating to the new AP2, ZB and ZM’s, while the AP1 is expected to be our most successful at retail as it appeals to the widest audience.”
High performance, muscle back forged iron, forged with 1025 carbon steel and bright chrome plating for traditional feel, superior looks and shot control for the competitive and highly skilled golfer. Compact size with constant blade length.
044 GOLF GEAR
King Cobra Speed Drivers New improved King Cobra Speed drivers introduced for the 2008 season
LD M Men’s
Pro S
Completing the ever popular Speed series is the Speed Pro driver that can be found in the bags of several high profile Cobra Tour ambassadors including Ian Poulter and Camilo Villegas. Tuned to give extreme-ball-speed players high launch, low spin & added workability, the Speed Pro optimise distance & accuracy.
RRP Speed LD Drivers : £222 (UK) Speed LD Fairways : £140 (UK) Street date : March 2008 ➲ www.cobragolf.com
NEW FOR 2008 045
For 2008 Cobra is introducing a new version of its hugely successful Speed LD range of drivers. The Cobra Speed LD was the #1 selling driver in the UK for the majority of 2007*, and the golf brand renowned for delivering massive sweetspots, unrivalled forgiveness and huge distance off the tee, look set for an even more successful 2008 with a refined version of the Speed LD line-up.
The new Speed LD F driver delivers a fast ball speed and a fast track to longer drives. Designed for the fast-ball-speed player, the all-new Speed LD F driver delivers an impressive 5000+ MOI for greater distance, accuracy and consistency. And the square alignment and precisely tuned clubhead and shaft generate high launch with a slight draw bias, giving your customers a much higher level of confidence.
The all-new Speed Drivers push Limit Dimensions technology into the next dimension. New 2008 Speed LD Drivers have been engineered to the R&A length/width limits and feature an even lower CG and a higher MOI for faster ball speeds and longer, straighter drives. The key refinements are:
The new Speed LD M driver is engineered to maximise performance for moderate-ballspeed players with a tendency to hit a fade or slice. The Speed LD M driver maximises distances on hits across the entire clubface. With the largest face on the market, the Speed LD M is forgiving, which, combined with extra-high launch and a draw bias design, provides increased distance. Available in Straight Neck (SN) and Offset (OS) head designs. Ladies and Senior versions available in Offset head design.
Enhanced fast-back crown and deep dimples: Increasing the crown slope and deepening the dimples moves the CG lower and deeper. The result is increased MOI and high launch for greater distance. Large face with milled dual rhombus face insert: The Speed LD face utilises a dual rhombus face insert technology to maximise COR. These technologies provide the ultimate in ball speed and distance. Frequency tuning: New Speed LD drivers feature internal Frequency Tuning for the perfect combination of satisfying sound and power.
LD F Men’s
Inspired by the new Speed LD drivers, the 2008 new Speed LD fairway metals have also been redesigned to feature a deeper CG for longer, more accurate shots. With a new larger face design giving more forgiveness across the face, the new Speed LD fairways allow golfers to tackle tight lies and rough with confidence and redefines the way you play the fairway.
The all-new Speed Drivers push Limit Dimensions technology into the next dimension.
LD M Women’s
* Golf DataTech Retail Audit Jan-Sept 2007
046 GOLF GEAR
New King Cobra FP & S9 Irons Following the success of the King Cobra S9 and King Cobra FP irons since their launch in 2007, Cobra have developed and improved the irons to help users to build a better game. The S9 irons are designed for players who want maximum accuracy, distance and feel. They utilise multi-material construction to develop a technically advanced iron providing the ultimate in forgiveness, distance and feel, and Cobra engineers have now made the S9 irons even better. The lightweight three-piece polymer topline allows for 8 grams of weight to be redistributed lower in the heel and toe for an extreme low-and-back CG enhanced feel. The back cavity plate is also designed to allow for 10-20 grams of weight to be redistributed to further maximize MOI. By combining this with the club’s already low profile and wide sole with a chamfer relief design – you gain improved versatility and more forgiveness, all offering even higher launch, greater distance and more accuracy than before.
The re-engineered FP irons give the ultimate unique combination of forgiveness, feel and playability, and are designed for players who will benefit from this perfect balance. The new sleeker head design and full cavity backed plate with urethane membrane offer enhanced feel along with a great look. In addition the relieved mid-width sole design offers greater MOI and precision weighting delivering superior playability under a wide variety of conditions.
RRP: FP Men’s (4-GW) Steel : £346 (UK) FP Men’s (4-GW) Graphite : £415 (UK) FP Seniors & Ladies (5-GW) Graphite : £415 (UK) S9 Men’s (4-GW) Steel : £438 (UK) S9 Men’s (4-GW) Graphite : £553 (UK) S9 Seniors & Ladies (5-GW) Graphite : £553 (UK)
S9 Men’s
S9 Seniors
S9 Ladies
➲ www.cobragolf.com
048 GOLF GEAR
Cleveland HiBore XLS
Introducing the HiBORE® XLS drivers, fairway woods and hybrids from Cleveland Golf - the latest addition to the HiBORE family of woods. The HiBORE XLS line of woods utilizes Distance Driven Geometry™ by lowering the crown which, in turn, lowers the center of gravity (CG) to produce the only face-centered sweet spot in golf. The HiBORE XLS driver, which is available in a Tour, Standard or Draw model, takes driver performance to the extreme by bringing the benefits of “Full-Face Performance” to players of all levels.
Available Now. Minimum Advertised Price: Tour Driver: £299 (UK) Standard & Draw Drivers: £249 (UK) Fairway Wood: £139 (UK) Hybrid: £99 (UK) ➲ www.clevelandgolf.com ➲ www.hibore.com
NEW FOR 2008 049
HiBORE XLS Tour
HiBORE XLS Hybrid
HiBORE XLS Fairway Wood
With its 17% larger face and 13% higher MOI, compared to its HiBORE XL predecessor, the HiBORE XLS offers maximum size and increased stability for added confidence and control off the tee. Its dual alignment features, which include a crown plaque and stability foils, also make it much easier to properly align the club at address.
The HiBORE XLS fairway wood has 24% more head volume compared to the original HiBORE fairway and boasts vastly increased MOI for increased stability and greater accuracy. A 19% larger face offers players a larger hitting area which makes the club look and feel extremely hittable. This increased size allows results on mishits to dramatically improve, while also giving players an added sense of confidence when addressing the ball.
The entire HiBORE XLS line is available with Fujikura’s Fit-On M™ Red and Gold shaft fitting system offered as a standard option. This unique fitting system allows each player to determine if a Tour Trajectory (Red) or Standard Trajectory (Gold) is right for their particular game.
The HiBORE XLS Draw is the ideal driver for players that fight the fade. It’s draw biased face, offset hosel and internal heel weighting help mid to high handicappers hit more fairways without having to sacrifice distance. The HiBORE XLS Tour boasts a more traditional and compact pear shape, while its 2 degree open face and toe biased weighting helps give better players more fade biased workability and increased distance.
The HiBORE XLS Hybrid incorporates science into a PGA TOUR inspired shape. Tour feedback has led to a more blunt toe and symmetrical shape for an extremely appealing look at address. Its increased offset promotes a square face at impact, helping to prevent slices and offering greater directional and trajectory control.
The HiBORE XLS driver takes driver performance to the extreme by bringing the benefits of “Full-Face Performance” to players of all levels.
050 GOLF BALLS
Nike
Callaway
TaylorMade
ONE Platinum & ONE Black
TOUR i & TOUR ix
TP Red & TP Black
The Nike ONE Platinum has been reengineered for longer distance, enhanced control and workability. Its progressive density core provides a superior feel and longer distance. A newly designed 378 dimple pattern with redesigned aerodynamics offers added carry and longer distance, and an optimised inner cover enhances mid-iron control and workability. Combined with the new Power Transfer Technology, multi-component construction and softened urethane cover, Nike ONE Platinum redefines total performance.
The technologically advanced Tour i Golf Ball provides the perfect balance of breakthrough distance and control. A softer core formulation provides unparalleled tour feel and the softer urethane cover generates more short-game spin for precision control and aggressive shot-making.
TP Red. 4-piece multi-layer construction promotes 15% softer feel than original. TP Black. 3-piece multi-layer construction promotes softer feel than original.
The technologically advanced Tour ix Golf Ball features 4-piece inertia technology and dual core construction designed to optimize distance.
» 360-dimple configuration limits drag for increased hang time and distance; and delivers extraordinary stability in crosswinds and headwinds.
The Nike ONE Black has been reengineered to maximise distance, improve accuracy and greenside response. Its progressive density core offers enhanced feel and reduced spin for longer, more accurate distance off the tee. A high coverage of 336 dimple pattern optimises aerodynamics and reduces drag for a more penetrating flight, and its seamless urethane cover gives exceptional flight consistency and responsiveness with all clubs
The ball’s high-density outer core moves weight away from the center of the ball for increased moment of inertia (MOI) resulting in reduced driver spin for increased distance and accuracy.
Street date : Available Now ➲ www.nikegolfeurope.com
Street date : July 2008 ➲ www.callawaygolf.com
» Features Low-Drag Performance (LDP), several dimple designs arranged in a lowdrag symmetry maintain lift on low-spin, off-center hits and minimize distance loss.
» Next generation NdV4 Core Technology boasts low compression and softer feel yet generates higher COR for faster ball speed and increased yardage. » Multi-blend ionomer mantle works with the core to promote a high, distance enhancing launch angle and spin off the driver and irons for optimum distance and softer sound and feel. » Advanced cast Thermoset Urethane cover promotes controllable spin off the short-irons and around the green while also delivering supreme shear-resistance. Street date : March 2008 ➲ www.taylormadegolf.com
NEW FOR 2008 051
Titleist
Titleist
Srixon
Pro V1 & Pro V1x
PTS Carry & PTS Roll
Z-URC & Z-URS
The new Titleist Pro V1® golf ball is designed for serious golfers of all levels that demand Tour-validated technology and performance. Featuring an improved, higher coverage 392 dimple design, along with a new staggered wave parting line and exclusive A.I.M. (Alignment Integrated Marking)™ sidestamp, the new Pro V1 golf ball provides long, consistent distance with the driver and long irons, while maintaining soft feel and high performance into and around the green with Drop-And-Stop™ control.
Continuing a tradition of over 30 years of consistent product performance and quality, the new Titleist PTS golf balls now provide golfers with new levels of distance via greater Carry or greater Roll. Based on your individual requirements, trajectory preference or course conditions, you will be sure to find a PTS distance solution that optimises your game. All with the quality and consistency you have come to expect from Titleist.
The Srixon Z-URC is the latest in the Z-UR family of golf balls. Like its tour winning cousins the Z-UR and Z-URS, the Z-URC features a revolutionary, ultra-thin urethane-elastomer cover, highly resilient large Energetic Gradient Growth core, and high velocity ionomer boundary layer with a 330 high trajectory dimple pattern. The cover of the Z-URC is the softest of the family providing more spin with all clubs and greater control with approach irons and delicate scoring shots around the green.
The New Titleist Pro V1x™ golf ball is designed for serious golfers of all levels seeking long distance with Tour-validated feel and performance. With a new, softer Urethane Elastomer™ cover, the Pro V1x provides improved playability and feel with mid and short irons. Featuring an improved, higher coverage 332 dimple design, along with a new staggered wave parting line and exclusive A.I.M. (Alignment Integrated Marking)™ sidestamp, the Pro V1x golf ball maintains long, consistent distance with softer feel and DropAnd-Stop™ control around the green. Street date : March 2008 ➲ www.titleist.co.uk
The New PTS Carry golf ball combines new, large and soft core technology with a new, high lift 252 dimple design, delivering greater carry via higher ball flight for longer distance. The New PTS Roll golf ball combines new, soft and resilient core technology with a lower trajectory 392 dimple design, delivering longer distance via penetrating ball flight and greater roll. Street date : March 2008 ➲ www.titleist.co.uk
The Srixon Z-URS shares the same technology platform as the tour proven Z-UR. It has an ultra-thin urethaneelastomer cover, large mid compression Energetic Gradient Growth core, high velocity ionomer boundary layer with a 330 high trajectory dimple pattern, but with a softer core and lower ball compression. The Z-URS is ideal for those preferring a softer feel and more control with short irons without sacrificing velocity and distance. Street date : Available Now ➲ www. srixon.co.uk
052 YOUR GAME
30th anniversary
A quick-fire 18 with Australian professional Anna Rawson... 1. What fame means to you? Being known by my first name - it’s simply wonderful. 2. Describe yourself in one word. Confident. 3. What three things can you not live without? Blackberry, Lip Balm and sunglasses. 4. Your style icon. Audrey Hepburn. 5. Your strength. My good intuition. 6. What bores you the most? Slow Golf. 7. Your favourite city. Istanbul. 8. What touches you most? Love. 9. What are your all-time favourite movies? Top Gun. 10. Your favourite type of food. Thai.
ANNA RAWSON ON Women’s Golf
Women’s golf is at such an exciting place right now. I can’t think of a better time to be a part of it. There are many more women playing golf than ever, and the sport just keeps growing rapidly. With the major growth of talent comes more media recognition, which is why some of the top talents are quickly becoming household names. This is great for the expansion of the game. When you have so many different women playing with such exceptional talent, such as Natalie Gulbis and Lorena Ochoa, among
many others, this attracts many new people and personalities to follow and play the sport, making the game more exciting. We can see so much passion, desire, and style on the course. And there can be a different winner in any given week. On the Ladies European Tour this season, I see many more female fans of all ages following us, which is different than before. I think women are feeling more empowered that they too can become a stellar golf talent. I am so happy that I am a part of the evolving image of women’s golf.
11. How would you spend a perfect day? At the beach - all day. 12. Your biggest asset. My legs and my eyes! 13. Whom do you admire the most? Oprah Winfrey. 14. Your dream car. Porsche Carrera. 15. If you weren’t a golfer, what would you like to be? Communication Consultant. 16. Your biggest fear. Spiders. 17. Your favourite outfit. My new Dolce & Gabbana black pencil-skirt. 18. Who would make up your favourite fourball? My mom, Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears and myself.
054 YOUR GAME
the importance of alignment & PICKING A TARGET
ANNA RAWSON’S CORNER 055
By Anna Rawson LET & LPGA Tour Player Now that my swing has developed, the main thing I focus on when I practice is alignment. After a week of playing tournament golf, my feet, hips, or shoulders can become open or closed. This can add dramatic changes to my ball flight. For example, when my feet and shoulders are open, I will find it difficult to draw the ball. When my feet or shoulders are closed, I may have too much draw on my ball flight. When I am aligned well, my swing stays on plane. (FIGURE A) When working on alignment, I line up every shot like I am playing on the course. This begins by picking out the smallest possible spot that I want the ball to land (I sometimes point my club to that spot like in FIGURE B, so it is reinforced in my mind). I then pick out a target a few feet in front of the ball and align my body to it. Â I look one more time at the target then swing away. When practicing, pick targets and focus on alignment. I guarantee you will watch more balls fly directly towards your target.
056 YOUR GAME Club used: X-Muscle 7 iron
s r e k n u b fairway HOW TO
PLAY
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PRO ANALYSIS 057
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058 YOUR GAME
on course MANAGEMENT By Sam Pleshette, PGA Professional
Course Management is a huge part of the game in determining the success of a tour professional, but an often overlooked one for the amateur golfer. Countless tournaments have been won and lost over the years at the highest level due to poor course management (Jean Van de Velde at Carnoustie ring any bells?), but just how many have happened at club level in your monthly medals, often without you realising? The situations you are faced with on the golf course and the decisions you make could sum up what course management is all about - what club to hit, where to hit it and why.
COURSE MANAGEMENT 059
For the purposes of this article I’ve played the first two holes at El Chaparral in order to highlight some of the situations you can be faced with and the decisions you need to be making during a round of golf. The first one happens before I set foot on the tee - get yourself a yardage book of the course. Both this and what you can see in front of you are keys to plotting your way around the golf course successfully. Hole number one is a fairly straight, tight par 4 measuring 337 metres. It is not the longest hole, but it is narrow, so accuracy off the tee is vital. There is a little more room to the right than appears, and anything to the left can leave your second shot blocked out by trees - so the right side of the fairway is perfect. Always check where the teeing ground points you, because this one is actually pointing me directly into the left trees – something you will find surprisingly often. I have decided to hit a 3 wood, as it should offer more accuracy than the driver but still give me some good distance. The second shot plays severely uphill and often you wont be able to see the bottom of the flag.
I am more or less in line with the 100 metre marker, but don’t be fooled and think that is all you have left - you have to think about it a little more than that! These markers give the distance to the front of the green, but there could be as much as a 4 club difference between hitting to the front of the green than hitting to the back.
Hole 1. Hcp. 7 : Par 4. 337m • 319m • 276m
The blue flag indicates that the pin is located in the middle portion of this green, and I know that this particular green is 35 metres long. So straight away that is probably another 18 metres to add on to my distance, plus the fact that when you play uphill it plays longer. So
I will add 10% to my distance, making this shot in actual fact play more like 130 metres. It is really important to take this information into account if you want to get your approach close to the flag, giving you a better birdie opportunity. I also know that any approach shot hit past the hole is a no-go zone as this particular green slopes severely back to front, which leaves me a much more difficult shot coming down the slope. A good rule of thumb is to plot the hole backwards. Knowing where the flag is located on the green will enable you to decide which part of the fairway is best to attack it from.
060 YOUR GAME
Anything short will result in a lost ball... Leave your ego in the golf buggy and choose plenty of club.
Hole no.2 is a Par 3 measuring 160 metres with a huge green that’s 30 metres deep and at least the same wide. Doesn’t sound too difficult does it? The tough part of this hole is that it is almost all carry. Anything short will result in a lost ball. The mistakes most amateurs make in this situation are a) thinking they hit the ball further than they actually do, and b) selecting a club that they can hit just about that distance with the very best of contacts. The problem they face now is that invariably they won’t strike it as well as they need to and as a result the ball will fall short of target, in this case not a good situation. Where’s that drop zone again?! Leave your ego in the golf buggy and choose plenty of club. You need to pick a club that if you strike perfectly you
will finish at the back of the green, (which in this case isn’t a bad position to finish in - notice how hazards are almost always short of the pin!), and in the more likely case you don’t strike it perfectly, you won’t finish in trouble. I have highlighted just a handful of course management tips to take account of when you’re out playing a round of golf. For more advice, it’s a good idea to consider the benefits of a playing lesson with a qualified PGA Professional. Sam Pleshette is a PGA qualified Teaching Professional at El Chaparral Golf Academy. 9 hole playing lessons are available for 95€ with green fee included. For more information contact: ✆ +34 669643427 ➩ sam@golfelchaparral.com ➲ www.sampleshettegolfacademy.com
Hole 2. Hcp. 9 : Par 3. 174m • 160m • 92m
062 CLUB FITTING
starting from scratch THE COMPLETE FITTING EXPERIENCE
The club making and fitting process is an area of golf that many amateurs know little about. Believing (wrongly) that this is specialised equipment only appropriate to professional golfers, they fail to comprehend the enormous advantages a correctly fitted set of clubs could have on their game.
By David Poulton, PGA Professional KZG World Top 100 Club Fitter 2008 Clubmaker of the Year Spain 2007
Over the coming issues I’m going to take you through the complete club fitting and building process from beginning to end, using Eat Golf! editor Nick Senior to assist as an example client. Adding his views on the experience will hopefully give you an even greater insight into what’s involved and why you should consider getting custom fit clubs, or even having your present clubs adjusted. To start things off, I have listed the various steps I will work through with Nick (as I would do with any client) in order to determine his requirements. In the following instalments we’ll go into some of these sections in greater detail.
Step 1. Interview I will discuss with Nick his golf history and golf ambitions. Step 2. Club & Swing Evaluation Nick’s present clubs will be checked for lie angle, shaft length, shaft flex and swing weight. How these specifications are affecting his swing action and ball flight will be studied with the aid of video. Step 3. Clubhead Selection A clubhead size and shape will be selected which fits Nick’s eye and ability. Step 4. First Specification I will make up the first club (6 iron) with the selected clubhead and shaft. During this part of the fitting the lie angle will be adjusted to encourage Nick to make the improved swing movement. Step 5. Improved / Final Specification When clubhead, shaft and lie angle
are confirmed, the grip and swing weight will be finalised. The swing weight will be decided on with the help of a digital swing weight system and Nick’s feedback. Step 6. Set Make Up Nick selects what irons he needs to make up a set, and what wedge system he requires. There will be a varied selection of wedges to choose from ensuring they are pleasing to his eye. Step 7. Lie Angle Double Check When Nick’s clubs are built he will test every club individually to confirm the lie angle is perfect for the ball flight and swing movement he is trying to achieve. No clubs will be built until Nick is absolutely satisfied with the look and feel of one club and I am happy with the specification. Nick will receive his clubs 3 to 4 days after the final fitting.
Golf Clubmakers Association Member (GCA) International Professional Clubfitters Association Member (IPCA) Qualified Mastercraftsman (GCA) Accredited Advanced Clubmaker (GCA) Accredited Clubmaker and Clubfitter (Diamond Golf) Top 100 Worldwide Clubfitter 2006-2008 (KZG) Clubmaker of the Year Spain 2007 Spanish PGA Member (APGE)
Design ŠEat Publishing S.L.
Class 'AA' British PGA Member
For a perfect finish. Every time. Contact David Poulton : (+34) 685 990 138
064 YOUR GAME
By Allison Dyer, BSc, MSc, C.Psychol Introduction by the Editor
www.sportpsychologist.org.uk
TOTAL SPORT PSYCHOLOGY 065
The popularity of Sports Psychology is on the rise as more and more golfers recognise the benefits it can have on their game.
Over the last couple of years Allison Dyer has been kind enough to share many tips and insights into the minds of golfers with readers of Eat Golf! Demand for Allison’s skills has meant an increase in her work with the PGA Tours, and so this will sadly be her last feature. To see if everybody has been paying attention, Allison has prepared one of her ‘mental questionnaires’ based on the importance of ‘Self Talk’. The questions are designed to make you think about your attitude to the game, and to evaluate how any issues might be solved. If you get stuck, then perhaps you need some more mental help... Allison is also involved with an Sport Psychology Online which provides live, individualised mental game consultancy services to golfers of all standards. For more information visit: www.sportpsychologyonline.com
1. TRUE or FALSE? We all have an ongoing inner dialogue or self talk. (Also can be described as an on-going stream of conversation or chatter.)
2. Which statement below is true: a or b? a) The way we think affects the way we feel b) The way we feel affects the way we think 3. Most of our self talk tends to be made up of ordinary, everyday thoughts, however, when our self-talk assumes negative undertones, for example, “I bet I don’t make this putt” “I´m not going to miss that water obstacle”, “I hate this hole, I never play well on this hole” we run the risk of triggering a chain reaction of events that can affect our golf negatively. Using the two sets of words below complete the chain reaction of events that can occur if we fall into unhelpful thoughts on the course: Set 1: Change in rhythm and tempo Set 2: Anxiety - Annoyance - Doubt - Concern
5. TRUE or FALSE? All negative thoughts are unhelpful. 6. Re-frame the following self talk by completing the sentence “When I should be saying/doing this...”
Example 1: If this happens... I am on the 9th hole with a water obstacle to negotiate I say this... “I just know I am going to find that water again” When I should be saying/doing this...
Example 2: If this happens... I am not playing well I say this... “I have only got five holes left to recover my score” When I should be saying/doing this...
CHAIN REACTION Unhelpful, deconstructive or negative thoughts ? Tension ? Change in golf performance
4. TRUE or FALSE? You cannot stop thoughts popping into your mind but you can train yourself to deal with these thoughts effectively.
7. Why is it useful to identify the times (critical moments) that you usually fall into negative thinking? Because... 8. Why is it useful to plan and rehearse what you are going to say to yourself during critical moments? Because...
9. TRUE or FALSE? It is useful for our self talk to be self-instructing, motivational, simple and in the present tense.
10. TRUE or FALSE? We are all able to choose to think helpful, constructive, empowering thoughts.
066 YOUR GAME
Photo courtesy
www.taylormadegolf.com
posture PERFECT!
By Juan Barberis Internationally Certified Golf Fitness Trainer
Natalie Gulbis
GOLF FITNESS 067
A large percentage of recreational golfers are successful executives or business owners that spend countless hours sitting behind a desk...
Jack Nicklaus believes that a good setup is 80 percent of the battle in hitting a good shot. So you may ask, what does it take to have a good setup? The answer lies in ensuring good posture when at setup and maintaining it throughout the golf swing.
What is good posture? Good posture is standing with your feet shoulder width apart, knees slightly flexed, hips slightly bent so that the back is reasonably straight, chin up, and left shoulder slightly higher than the right. Sounds simple, right? Well, for a large percentage of recreational golfers good posture is an allusive goal. Not because they are not getting proper coaching from their teaching pro, but because they lack the proper body strength and flexibility to make this objective a reality. Let’s analyse the reasons why most golfers have a poor posture. It all starts with their daily life. A large percentage of recreational golfers are successful executives or business owners that spend countless hours sitting behind a desk, in front of their laptops, or on their telephones. During their daily life they are unlikely to stand with their feet shoulder width apart, knees slightly flexed, and majority of their weight on the balls of their feet while keeping their left hip slightly higher than their right. Their bodies are simply not conditioned for proper setup posture. Additionally, since they are sitting for long periods of time, their hip and chest muscles are inflexible and their buttock,
abdominal, and back muscles lack strength. These are the imbalances that lead to poor upright posture and to poor posture at setup. So what can be done? My recommendation is that you contact a reputable golf fitness trainer that understands how to conduct postural, flexibility, stability, balance, and strength assessments and can coach you through a fitness program that will improve your posture and your game. A properly trained health fitness provider will be able through these assessments to determine the areas to work on in order to re-balance your body and train it for golf performance. In as little as two weeks, you will notice improved flexibility and within six to eight weeks, you will likely have the proper strength to hold your posture throughout your swing. Your body is the key to better golf and to better quality of life. Remember, from a poor setup, the quality of your swing is irrelevant, and the chances of consistently hitting good shots are virtually none. However, from a good setup with proper posture you can make average swings and consistently hit good shots. Jack Nicklaus´ percentage statement will be in your favour! Yours in health!
068 GOLF & TRAVEL
EASTER IN CARRATRACA Aloha Golf Club
Carratraca, known as the Diamond of Malaga, has been famous for its sulphur water spas since Roman times. In its heyday in the 19th century, when taking the waters was the height of fashionable travel, this spa attracted such famous visitors as Lord Byron and Empress Marie Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III. Carratraca is also famous for its Easter passion play performed in the bullring by over a hundred villagers on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
MADEIRA - SPAIN - PORTUGAL - SEVILLE
Recently a special award was handed to the Duchess of Alba in the locality of Carratraca. Given by D. Salvador Pendón (El Presidente de la Diputación Provincial de Málaga) in the presence of D. José Cosme Martín (Delegado Provincial de Turismo de la Junta de Andalucía), D. Oscar Román (Mayor of Carratraca) and D. Ricardo Arranz (President of R&A Capital, and owner of the magnificent Flamingos Resort).
If watching the way it should be done is your thing, then get ready over the coming weeks as The European Tour rolls into four nearby locations. 20-23 March 2008 Madeira Island Open BPI Santo da Serra, Portugal Course designed by Robert Trent Jones Snr. ➲ www.santodaserragolf.com
03-06 April 2008 Estoril Open de Portugal Oitavos Dunes, Portugal Course designed by Arthur Hills ➲ www.quintadamarinha-oitavosgolfe.pt
27-30 March 2008 Open de Andalucia Aloha Golf Club, Spain Course designed by Javier Arana ➲ www.clubdegolfaloha.com
01-04 May 2008 Open de Espana Real Club de Golf de Sevilla, Spain Course designed by José María Olazábal ➲ www.sevillagolf.com
The award was achieved in recognition of the work done by its ancestors, “the Empress Eugenia de Montijo” and her sister Maria Francisca, “the Paca” (XV Duchess of Alba), in benefit of the spas.
070 GOLF & TRAVEL
flamingos GOLF CLUB
Golf course development is showing no signs of slowing down on the southern coast of Spain, and the increasing number available to choose from each year is making for some stiff competition. There seems to be little difficulty in finding a suitable site on which to build a course, but selecting an area which is going to stand out from the crowd is a bit trickier.
FLAMINGOS GOLF 071
The wide open valley that houses Flamingos Golf was an excellent find, and Spanish architect Antonio Garcia Garrido has made full use of the land at his disposal. The central area of the course sees the magnificent Hotel Villa Padierna surrounded by golf. Looking down the valley across a large natural reservoir and to the sea beyond, if you are sitting on the terrace with a clear, sunny day there can be few finer and more relaxing places to be. The course winds its way around the hotel in a circular fashion and even though the site itself is relatively compact the golfer never feels to be travelling straight up and down adjacent fairways. The shallow bowl of the valley ensures that there are both subtle and dramatic elevation changes on each hole, but they are never overwhelming. It is worth noting that this is one of the few courses
Looking down the valley across a large natural reservoir and to the sea beyond, if you are sitting on the terrace with a clear, sunny day there can be few finer and more relaxing places to be. on the Costa del Sol which allows buggies on the fairways most of the year, and though not essential, they do help on a few occasions when asked to climb back up the hillside to reveal those superb views once again.
on the waters edge. The par 3 second sees similar challenges condensed into one shot with a large ravine to carry and the same hazard to the right. A large two tier green lies in wait for those taking sufficient club to reach.
The opening two holes make for a testing start to the course, with a par 5 requiring a drive over a shallow ravine to a fairway guarded by banking on the left and a lateral water hazard that runs the full length of the hole down the right. A semi blind second should leave you in position for a short chip into a green which is perched
With your score hopefully still intact, opportunities should come more easily from here on. The fourth is a delightful par 3. From an elevated tee choosing the correct club is essential to hit a well bunkered green with a steep runoff at the front. The par 4s are a well balanced mix of distance and width which force you to question
072 GOLF & TRAVEL
whether driver is the best choice from the tee, and the greens begin to reveal themselves as one of the hallmarks of the course... By combining undulations and steps, designer Garrido has managed to protect almost every pin position to reward a good approach shot over an average one. It is possible to leave yourself with a putt that requires ultimate imagination and feel, and the golfer is only offered a flat surface on the holes which see reaching the green in regulation a challenge in itself, such as the 10th...
Perhaps the signature hole on the course, it is as likely to cause great discussion as it is difficulty, as at stroke index 1 it is up to the player to decide how much of a risk they wish to take. After being forced to play for position from the tee into a lay up area you are left with a long approach shot over water. Those who wish to reach the green in two will have to take on the carry, but in fairness there is a bail out area to the right which effectively turns the hole into a short par 5. Most would be well advised to take the second option!
Host to the European Seniors’ Final and ‘The Daily Telegraph European Seniors´ Match Play Championship’ for three years is testament to the fact that the course is always maintained to the highest standards, and we would refer back to the greens as being a highlight in this area. With plenty of character and a well rounded challenge the course can be enjoyed by golfers of all levels, and combined with the Gran Flamingo course we reviewed in issue 10, the Flamingos Resort must be included on any avid golfers list when visiting the area.
...designer Garrido has managed to protect almost every pin position to reward a good approach shot over an average one...
Flamingos Golf Club Ctra. de Cádiz Km. 166. 29679 Marbella, Benahavís, Spain ✆ (+34) 952 889 157 ➩ membership@flamingos-golf.com ➲ www.flamingos-golf.com
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Golf Club Villa Padierna Membership Information Located in the heart of Marbella, Golf Club Villa Padierna nestles amongst an oasis of beauty and well-being that is the Flamingos Resort, one of the most select resorts on the Costa del Sol. Villa Padierna Golf Club is not just a first-class golfing amenity, up there with the best, but also - together with the quality of its courses - able to offer the services of the luxury Villa Padierna Hotel, whose architecture can be likened to the “palazzos” of Tuscany - rising majestically in the middle of this impressive resort. With superb hotel amenities and restaurant facilities operated by Ritz-Carlton, together with spas, thermal baths, a beach club and a racquet club, the complex is an irresistible magnet for discerning people of good taste, elegance and comfort - qualities present in every detail of its rooms and gardens. The spectacular views over the sea and mountains, with the Mediterranean, Africa and the Straits of Gibraltar as a backdrop, and the elegant silhouette of the hotel set an attractive scene that extends to three 18-hole courses, make Villa Padierna Golf Club a top-class complex and one of golf’s main reference points at a national and international level.
At each turn you can appreciate how much the developer has pampered this paradise; sculptures and columns cohabit with lush vegetation and, as the icing on the cake, Marbella’s exceptional climate. So, if you own a home in Marbella or are spending part of your time on the Costa del Sol, this is the perfect club, golf course, spa, restaurant and clubhouse to pass wonderful moments with your family or friends. Reasons for becoming a member of Villa Padierna Golf Club Three 18-hole golf courses with different and complementary features, located within the resort and including top-level amenities. One of the Coast’s most select tennis and paddle tennis clubs (Villa Padierna Racquet Club), with top installations and specialist staff. An incomparable beach club located on one of the Costa del Sol’s finest beaches and offering cuisine of an unprecedented quality. The Villa Padierna Hotel (fivestar grand deluxe) run by the Ritz-Carlton chain and including one of Europe’s finest spas. The Carratraca thermal baths, located in this beautiful municipality in the Málaga mountain ranges,
bringing together history, culture, pleasures of the senses and the curative and rejuvenating qualities of its thermal waters, highly valued by the most refined Europeans since the early 19th century. Membership rights last indefinitely. The possibility of passing on membership rights to third parties. The opportunity of being able to enjoy all of the aforementioned with your family or guests, with extraordinary benefits and privileges.
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millionaires’ golf By Gary Firkins
Stapleford Park, one of Britain’s finest country house hotels and sporting estates, is also home to an 18-hole championship standard golf course that remains a best-kept secret.
Despite the downturn in the global economy, sales of private jets are soaring to new highs, you may be interested to know. Currently, there are around 14,000 private jets worldwide, a number expected to double over the next decade, creating a market worth more than £114 billion. Fuelled by a new breed of ‘Very Light Jets’, coming on stream at less than half the price of a typical business jet (you can now pick one up for just £1.5m), buying a plane is no more difficult or expensive than buying a pied-a-terre in London for the new millionaires of Russia, China and India, it seems.
Professional golfers have been jetting around for years, of course. Just visit St Andrews during Open Championship week and, across the water, you’ll see that RAF Leuchars looks more like a car park than an airbase, crammed as it is with private jets shuttling the global golfing jet set around. Indeed, a friend of mine recently returned from the PGA Golf Show in Florida - the largest golf business event in the world - where he had had a meeting with a golf business executive who had flown in to Orlando especially for that one diary appointment. The fact that this businessmen lived just an hour-and-a-half’s drive away
from the convention centre was neither here nor there. He had a jet, and he was going to fly. This incident reminded me of a story told by a member at my golf club, who had been a training officer with the RAF, teaching pilots the ins-and-out and ups-and-downs of Harrier Jump Jets. Depending on where his training missions took him, he would always try and sneak in a round of golf. The benefit of using Harrier training aircraft is that, unlike the combat model, these are two-seaters, with just enough room to cram in two half sets in the tandem cockpit.
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With typical RAF bravado, he recounted how he had flown up to Machrihanish the previous week, on the west coast of Scotland, which is uniquely blessed with an outstanding and historic links golf course, and an adjoining runway on which one can land a Harrier. Flying up from his East Midlands base in the morning, he was able to deliver his seminar, whiz round 18 windswept holes, and make the 45-minute hop back to base in time for tea. Splendid. Which brings me to Stapleford Park in Leicestershire, just a minute’s flying time from the aforementioned Midlands RAF base, and a few miles outside the
market town of Melton Mowbray (global epicentre of pork pie and Stilton cheese production), yet remote enough to offer the complete tranquillity you would expect of what is known as of one of England’s finest country house hotels and sporting estates. The members of Stapleford Park refer to their rounds as ‘millionaires’ golf’ and, while you can’t land your private jet here (although there is a helicopter pad), you can see what they mean. There is no rush, no queue at the 1st tee, indeed hardly anyone at all. My female companion informs me that the ladies’ changing rooms in the Golf Pavilion, as it is called, are probably the most
luxurious of any clubhouse she has experienced in the UK. Both in the Pavilion and on the course, we feel like we own the place by virtue of the fact we are the only ones here. The 18-hole golf course was designed by the eminent architect Donald Steel, entrusted with amending and updating many of the UK’s most treasured and historic seaside links. And there is something of the distinctive seaside style at Stapleford Park. Revetted bunkers (faced with layers of turf), typically seen on Scottish links, guard the greensides, while wispy, honey-coloured rough defines the fairways and adds a rich texture to the landscape.
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Jeremy Dale
The meandering River Eye adds the greatest strategic interest to the golf... The holes wrap around the heart of a classic Capability Brown park - part of the 500 acre estate - in two extended loops, and feature ever changing views of Stapleford’s stately home, with woods, lakes and streams coming into play. The meandering River Eye adds the greatest strategic interest to the golf, coming into play on four holes. If you want to improve your golf, you should try the Jeremy Dale Scoring School at Stapleford Park. Jeremy is an extraordinary golf professional and trick-shot entertainer who combines his golfing skills with a unique approach to teaching intended to help golfers improve their scores without changing their swings.
But Stapleford Park is so much more than just golf. While the estate itself dates to Norman times, records for the house go back to the 14th century. Converted to a magnificent country house hotel, there are 55 individually designed and furnished bedrooms (including the Gardener’s and Pavilion Cottages), all reflecting the style of their creators. From the abundance of bathroom toiletries in the Crabtree and Evelyn Room to the ‘70s style Savoir Beds Room, complete with 8ft round bed, staying here is something special. Of course, for the non-golfing partner, there are plenty of activities. I say activities, if that includes lying by the pool in
the main house or indulging in a sumptuous treatment in the converted Victorian Stable Block. There are also many country pursuits, including shooting, falconry, archery, fishing and that Olympic sport the British always win gold at, picnicking. But back to the golf club where, having putted out on the 18th green, we retire to the Pavilion and the first floor bar and restaurant overlooking the course for a bite to eat. I can’t think of any clubhouses in the UK quite like this. Stone built with a thatched roof and a stylish, contemporary interior, it succinctly sums up what golf at Stapleford Park is all about - a respect for the finest traditions of the game and the perfect antidote to a jet propelled lifestyle. For more information visit: www.staplefordpark.com
078 EXCLUSIVE
El Higueral BENAHAVĂ?S
PGA Professional and golf course designer Roderick Segar takes us on a tour of his new creation on the Costa del Sol, Spain, with an exclusive look at his course notes.
El Higueral is the picturesque new 9 hole course nestled on the gentle slopes of the foothills in BenahavĂs. Presenting a fun and inspiring challenge for golfers of all abilities, the par 36 resort course features unique features and vistas with beautifully manicured greens and elegantly styled lakes.
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Urb. Capanes Golf. Km. 3,7 Ctra. de Benahavís, 29679 Benahavís, Marbella, Malaga, Spain ✆ (+34) 951 242 139 or (+34) 639 793 542 ➲ www.elhigueralgolf.com ➩ reservas@elhigueralgolf.com
Hole 9. Par 4. Hcp. 2. 324m • 294m • 279m • 257m An uphill par 4, the one place not to go is left. Pick out one of the fairway bunkers to take on and bite off as much of the dogleg as you wish. Any slightly miss hit tee shot will be gathered by the waiting fairway bunkers. From the middle of the fairway this is a straight forward mid-iron to a large green.
Hole 8. Par 4. Hcp. 5. 349m • 325m • 297m • 253m A sharp dogleg to the right, the approach leaves the player with an uphill shot to a very well contoured green. Placing the approach shot in the right part of the green is the challenge of this hole.
Hole 1. Par 3. Hcp. 8. 134m • 120m • 105m • 93m A short downhill par 3 sets the tone for an enjoyable and relaxing round of golf. Short is better than long, as there is a sharp drop-off area to the back of the green. Take note of the pin position as the lake can come into play.
Hole 2. Par 4. Hcp. 3. 377m • 345m • 316m • 278m Whilst there are obvious benefits to be gained, the greenside ravine to the left should only come into play if the player employs an attacking strategy. The benefits of playing out to the right should ensure that the ravine does not have to be crossed with the approach to a deep green.
Hole 3. Par 3. Hcp. 4. 147m • 124m • 112m • 94m A marvellous par 3. A unique black slate surround defines the edges of this island green with water protecting all sides. Inspired by the great American resort courses, a short or mid-iron to the centre of the large putting surface is clearly the shot to play. Well balanced tee positions ensure that players will find its challenge more fun than daunting.
The course is due to be extended to a full 18 holes in the future. The new nine is to be situated on the left of the river.
Hole 7. Par 4. Hcp. 9. 282m • 240m • 235m • 185m A drive-able par 4, whose only real defence is a raised green with a bunker guarding the front. Many will choose to have a go, though an iron off the tee could equally make a score.
Hole 6. Par 5. Hcp. 7. 458m • 424m • 391m • 343m A stunning ravine runs the full length of the hole on the left, though ample space is provided on the wide fairway of what should be a straight-forward par 5. The ravine does cut around the back of the hole to give the impression from the approach that the green hangs over it - but again there should be plenty of room here.
Hole 4. Par 5. Hcp. 6. 489m • 467m • 443m • 394m Perhaps the signature hole of the course and featuring one of the most picturesque green settings on the Costa del Sol. A downhill dogleg right hole, the sweeping contours of the fairway turn to reveal a peninsula green nestled by the lakeside, and an accurate drive is required if the player is to successfully reach the green in two. Played to reach in regulation, good judgement of distance with a short iron could equally set up a birdie opportunity, though water is a factor if the pin is placed back right.
Hole 5. Par 4. Hcp. 1. 378m • 343m • 331m • 304m Teeing off from within the tall trees out into the open fairway, the ideal place to place the drive is at the apex of the dog-leg, which turns to the right. From here a mid-iron should be sufficient to reach a relatively flat green, with some subtle undulations.
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ABU DHABI
Abu Dhabi Golf Club Consistently given rich praise for its layout and course conditioning from some of the world’s finest players in recent times, the club is central to the vision of promoting the UAE capital as an international golf destination. ➲ www.adgolfclub.com
Dubai
LUKE’S FLYING START
The Montgomerie The Colin Montgomerie designed venue features some of the most advanced facilities, boasting a boutique hotel, three restaurants, golf academy, 9-hole par-three course and an 18-hole Championship golf course. ➲ www.themontgomerie.com
United Arab Emirates Ryder Cup hopeful Luke Donald’s preparations for the Abu Dhabi Golf Championships were given a helping hand by diamond sponsor Etihad Airways. The European star golfer had a unique birds’-eye view of the challenging course when he took the controls of an Airbus A330 in the Etihad flight simulator and “flew” over the tournament venue, Abu Dhabi Golf Club. Under the guidance of Etihad Airways’ Captain Nazmi Zainuddin, Donald piloted the around the city
and over the championship course, before finally descending into Abu Dhabi airport and landing safely. Abu Dhabi Golf Club (pictured top right) won the coveted “Golf Club of the year” plus the award for “Best 18 holes” at the recent prestigious Middle East Golf Awards. The Montgomerie (pictured right middle), one of the UAE’s most exclusive venues also won the award for “Best Service.” Both facilities are managed by Troon Golf, the world’s largest golf management company.
Etihad Airways The national airline of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Airways currently offer flights to 45 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa, Asia and Australia. ✆ +971 (0) 2505 8317 / 8573 ➲ www.etihadairways.com
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The Els Club Photo by Steve Read/Getty Images
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The prestigious Els Club course, located in Dubai Sports City, stretches 7,538 yards from the back tees. The “desert links” layout combines a traditional classic design with truly immaculate fairways and greens. Officially open for play in March this year, it is destined to set a new benchmark for golf in Dubai.
World Number 5 golfer Ernie Els recently unveiled The Els Club at Dubai Sports City, the world’s first integrated sports city. The Els Club is the first sports facility to open in Dubai Sports City and will sit alongside other facilities including the ICC Cricket Stadium & the ICC Global Cricket Academy, The Manchester United Soccer Schools, The David Lloyd Tennis Academy & Next Generation Club & the World Hockey Academy. The Els Club is Ernie’s first step from golf into hospitality. Els, the former British and US Open Champion, was joined for this official opening in Dubai by English cricketer Andrew Flintoff, South
Africa’s World Cup winning rugby captain John Smit, tennis legend Martina Navratilova and Manchester United goalkeeping legend, Peter Schmeichel. Flintoff was particularly impressed with both Dubai Sports City and Ernie’s course. “What a course!” commented the England all-rounder who is making a good recovery from injury. “I cannot wait to play here on a regular basis! Golf is the second sport for so many sportsmen and to have this on the doorstep of what looks like one of the world’s leading cricket stadium will be fantastic.” “Ernie’s a great guy and when he invited me out here to see Dubai Sports City and The Els Club, it was
a great chance to see something unique and support a friend. I’m looking forward to having dinner in the 19th once it is open!” U. Balasubramaniam, the CEO of Dubai Sports City was delighted to see the first of many world class amenities at project officially opened, “It was clear from the very first meeting that Ernie’s vision for The Els Club matched our own at Dubai Sports City. Those who appreciate life’s finest pleasures will embrace this true sporting gem which has been sensationally created by Ernie and his team.” On the following pages we hand over to Ernie, who tells us more.
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“Obviously this whole project at Dubai Sports City is incredibly exciting – I mean, I think it’s fair to say there is nothing else like it in the world.”
How & when did your relationship begin with Dubai Sports City? I’ve been coming to Dubai since 1994. I’ve always had a special affinity with the city as it has grown. I’ve also been pretty successful here in the Dubai Desert Classic. When I saw the plans for Dubai Sports City, I knew that this was going to be a great project. We met with Khalid, Bala and the team and agreed a way forward. Initially, we were involved with this project in partnership with Nicklaus Design. But we are very much a stand alone business now and as a result of that restructuring we took over this project in the very early planning stages. Being able to design a golf course in Dubai – you know, that’s pretty special. And obviously this whole project at Dubai Sports City
is incredibly exciting – I mean, I think it’s fair to say there is nothing else like it in the world. Has the course design emerged how you originally saw it? (if not, what’s different... If yes, how did you see it?). Yeah, definitely. We felt that we could create a desert style links and I think that’s exactly what we’ve achieved Working with Greg Letsche and the Els Design team, I think that they’ve done a great job in shaping the course. The greens will mature and the bunkers are tough. I also think that the desert wind will give the course a good links feel. Why “The Els Club”? The Els Club is the first of a select number of chosen projects that
will bear my name. They will comprise of an 18-hole signature Els Design course plus a unique hospitality offer in the club house... good food, great bars, a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with great service from the moment you arrive. Basically, everything you want in a great day’s golf. We’ll also definitely serve my wine! Hopefully, the formula will be the best of all the clubs where I have played over the last 20 years. How many Els Clubs do you expect to build over the coming years? I don’t know. Time will tell on that one. We have no specific plans today. The important thing is that we are looking for the right opportunities in the right locations around the world.
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Places like South Africa, the UK and the US are obvious potential locations given my links with all three. But I am keen to explore the potential in some of golf’s emerging markets such as China, India and the Far East. What do you want The Els Club legacy to be for members & visiting golfers in Dubai? For the members, that they enjoy a great course with a fun clubhouse. For the visitors, that they walk away having had a great day on and off the golf course. Are you genuinely going to be involved with The Els Club? We are actually setting up our office at the clubhouse, although I am not going to be at the course every week or month, because my focus is professional golf and the Majors. I will be keeping a close eye on the Els Club here in Dubai and I
am sure that I will visit it regularly over the next couple of years. Where do you feel that this course sits amongst your global designs to date? That’s for others to judge. You mature as a designer and I genuinely feel that this is a great course. I am very proud of what we’ve achieved here. I’m confident it will rank amongst the best golf courses in the Middle East for many years to come. What makes it so special? Well, being part of Dubai Sports City which will become perhaps the most prominent location for sports on the planet helps. The course itself has come together well because of Greg Letsche and the Els Design team and the shaping of the course. It just feels like a desert links. It will be a good test for all levels of golfer.
Which is the best hole in your view? There are several holes which spring to mind: The 9th is a long par 4 which plays downwind in the morning and upwind in the afternoon. The twelfth is inspired by Muirfield in Scotland. The 16th is great risk/reward short par 4. It is drivable... The 17th is the best par 3 whilst the 18th is a great par 5 finishing hole. Are you going to own a property in Dubai Sports City? Absolutely. I’m really looking forward to owning a home and having a corporate base in Dubai Sports City. I mean, this is one the premier developments in the Middle East. How do you view Dubai Sports City’s plans? Fantastic. One day I look forward to watching South Africa beat India in a Test here, then the
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“I will be keeping a close eye on the Els Club here in Dubai and I am sure that I will visit it regularly...”
Springboks will beat England in Rugby and perhaps Manchester United will beat Arsenal. And I win a couple of majors! That would be a great year in sport. Is the Els Club environmentally friendly? We’re always careful about the impact on the environment. For example, we’ve created wetlands and lakes which will encourage both birds and fish to flourish at The Els Club. Right now we’re testing solar panel golf carts to reduce electricity consumption. We have also sourced trees and vegetation from sustainable forests or carbon neutral nurseries worldwide. How will The Els Club compare to Tiger’s? Is there a lot of competition between you on this? I don’t know about that. I am sure Tiger will do a great job. It’s his first design and he’s going to be
under the spotlight, so he’ll want to deliver. I guess in years to come the visitors will judge for themselves which course they like the best. The thing is, though, it’s great for Dubai that we both have courses here. And as I said, I’m proud that mine is here in Dubai Sports City. What are your goals for the season? To win majors. That’s what we all want to do. This year I’ve geared my schedule around the majors, so that’s obviously my main focus. How has your practice gone over the winter? Really well. I had a great break with the family at the end of December when I just put the clubs away. Since the start of the New Year, though, I’ve been working hard on my game and my fitness back in South Africa. I feel really ready for the year.
What did you learn from the Dunhill in December 2007? Well, obviously it shouldn’t happen, but it does. You know, if you look back over the years, some of the best players in the world have thrown away tournaments on the last few holes. What more can you say? I mean, I didn’t finish the job, but it’s history. You learn from it and you move on, simple as that. Will you be likely to commit to play the Race to Dubai in 2009? I’ll make a decision on that at the end of this year. It’s great for the European Tour and it’s great for Dubai. For more information about The Els Club visit: www.elsclubdubai.com
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With over 50 million square feet of sporting venues, academies, exceptional homes, cultural activities and retail opportunities, Dubai Sports City is inspired by the greatest cities in the world, but at its heart beats the very essence of sport.
Dubai Sports City is the cornerstone project of Dubailand, a US$ 4 billion, 50 million square feet mixed-use development which will be the world’s first integrated purpose-built sports city.
Dubailand® Theme Parks: Great Dubai Wheel Aqua Dunya Dreamworks
Dubailand®, a member of Tatweer, is the world’s most ambitious tourism, leisure and entertainment project, catering to the needs of the entire family. The unique 3 billion sq. ft. development has been designed to catalyse the position of Dubai as an international hub of family tourism, appealing to tourist segments across genders, age group, world regions and activity preferences.
Culture & Art: Falcon City of Wonders Islamic Culture & Science World Taaleem Beacon Education Al Sahra Desert Resort
Dubailand® is projected to attract millions of tourists annually from around the world. The diverse projects under Dubailand® include theme parks, eco-tourism projects, shopping malls, restaurants and residential units that are being developed by UAE, GCC and international investors. A product of extraordinary vision, Dubailand® will be an attractive place to ‘live, work and play’ for the Emirate’s growing population, both as a leisure destination and an appropriate setting for business and entertainment development.
Science & Planetariums: Astrolabe Resort Sports & Sports Academies: Dubai Sports City* Dubai Golf City** Dubai Lifestyle City Plantation Equestrian & Polo Club Motor City Wellbeing & Health: Beautyland Riverside Al Barari Shopping & Retail: Dubai Outlet City Resorts & Hotels: Al Sahara Kingdom City of Arabia
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Pictured above: Standing majestically on the buzzing Riviera-style waterfront, midway between the northern and southern retail hubs of the vibrant Dubai Sports City downtown district, Canal Residence West is right at the centre of this exciting sporting metropolis. From world-class sports events, fitness arenas, entertainment and retail venues, to healthcare, education and community
facilities, Canal Residence West offers unrivalled apartment living at the very heart of the action. Pictured left: An artist impression aerial overview of Dubai Sports City. Pictured below: The stadia at Dubai Sports City include a 60,000 capacity multi-purpose outdoor stadium, a 10,000 seat multi-purpose indoor arena and a 25,000 capacity cricket stadium.
*Dubai Sports City Land Size : 50 million square feet. The region’s premier sporting venue featuring 4 giant-sized stadiums designed for international events including soccer, hockey, cricket and rugby. The project will also feature world renowned sporting academies. 60,000 Spectators Capacity Multipurpose Stadium 30,000 Spectators Capacity Cricket Stadium 25,000 capacity cricket stadium 10,000 capacity indoor stadium Two midsize Multipurpose Stadiums Butch Harmon School of Golf David Lloyd Tennis Academy Erni Els Championship Golf Course ICC Global Cricket Academy Manchester United Soccer School Sports Themed Shopping Mall **Dubai Golf City Land Size : 55 million square feet The project will house five themed signature courses, a golf academy, a six-star resort hotel & spa, golf communities, golf villages and retail souks. The city is envisioned to have courses that will be challenging and can be used by international golfing leagues for competitions.
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oceanico golf INSIDE
The Oceanico Group specialises in creating luxury four and five star residential and holiday homes within superbly equipped and designed beach, leisure and championship golf resorts in Portugal. Eat Golf! spoke with Rita Brissos of Oceanico Golf to find out more.
Can you give a brief overview of Oceanico’s position in Portugal? Oceânico Golf is now the major player in Portugal’s distinguished golf tourism market, owning and operating one of Europe’s biggest portfolios of courses. Oceânico looks for expertise when designing new courses and so has teamed up with a number of legendary golfers. Nick Faldo and Christy O’Connor Jnr have both designed courses at Amendoeira Golf Resort, opening in September 2008, whilst Seve Ballesteros has lent his experience to our course at Royal Obidos on the Silver Coast. Oceânico Golf has also teamed up with Troon Golf, leader in upscale
golf course and private club management, to manage their golf course portfolio. Together they bring a wealth of expertise and passion for the game, ensuring an unrivalled golfing experience every time. Can you discuss how Oceanico Golf fits into the whole group? Oceânico Golf born from the acquisition of the five Vilamoura courses in March 2007 and the construction of another 3 (two at Amendoeira Golf Resort in Silves and Royal Óbidos), with the aim to improve the existing standards of quality and services with a view to complement our leisure offer with exclusive privileges unique to all our clients and owners.
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We will develop great projects in Vilamoura that will only enhance the location and it’s fantastic infra-structure.
What courses fall under the Oceanico umbrella? Oceânico Golf offers eight Championship courses from which to choose, including Vilamoura’s famous five on the Algarve - Victoria, host to the Portugal Masters 2007-2009; The Old Course; Pinhal; Laguna and Millennium. The Faldo and The O’Connor Jnr courses at Amendoeira Golf Resort in Silves and The Seve Ballesteros course in the Silver Coast. What role does golf play in the grand scheme of the Groups development? We’ve inspired ourselves in the Pinehurst model in North Carolina,
and the choice of 7 championship golf courses within only 20 mins from each other is something unique, that give’s the Oceânico Group a huge complement to it’s Real Estate and Holiday business. Selling our properties with a golf membership title for 7 golf courses in the Algarve is something that no one else can provide in Europe. Singularly attractive holiday & golfing packages is something that only Oceânico Resorts can provide and these are just some examples.
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We have all been aware of Vilamoura as a top golfing destination. With Oceanico at the helm what elements does the Group bring to offer golfers a top golfing experience? Oceânico Golf prides itself for the highest quality of services and course conditioning, we have a wide choice within our golf courses for everyone from the professional to the beginner golfer and we’ve also teamed up with Troon Golf, leader in upscale golf course and private club management, to manage our golf course portfolio. Together we bring a wealth of expertise and passion for the game, ensuring an unrivalled golfing experience every time. We aim to always exceed the expectations of those who visit and play our courses, to provide the best possible playing conditions and services.
How will the Oceanico Group seek to maximise such a fabulous location? Oceânico has launched its newest resort in Vilamoura – Vilamoura Golf & Garden Resort, a golf and garden resort per the name, with gardens designed by Diarmuid Gavin and a fantastic Moorish architecture, and we do have another Real Estate project in the area to be launched in the near future, so our acquisition of the golf courses in this area was indeed strategic. We will develop great projects in Vilamoura that will only enhance the location and it’s fantastic infra-structure. How do you see the region benefiting from Oceancio’s introduction? As mentioned before Oceânico is already investing in the improvement of it’s courses
and will develop major 5 star projects that will benefit the area tremendously. What future developments lie at the heart of Oceanico - golf and property? Oceânico has already stretched wings overseas with the acquisition of Little River Golf Resort in the Pinhurst area, North Carolina, where we have a golf course and a Real Estate project. We are also looking at different locations from Cape Verde to the Bermuda, US, India, Italy, etc. We do have other investment opportunities in line in Portugal as well and of course golf is always in mind for our resorts. For more information about Oceanico Golf visit: www.oceanicogolf.com
Design ŠEat Publishing S.L.
094 EVENTS & LIFESTYLE
Dominican Republic
The Roco Ki Golf Club The Nick Faldo designed Dominican Republic golf course consists of a wide expanse of a coconut palm lined beach, mangroves, and a unique headland that protrudes out into the Atlantic Ocean. ➲ www.rocoki.com
ARCOS GARDENS
NICE PUTT NATALIE
Hosts England National Squads The English Golf Union (EGU) flew its top players south to prepare for 2008 and once again they chose Arcos Gardens in Spain for this important part of their annual instruction and training programme. ➲ www.arcosgardens.com
Michael Longshaw While Adam Scott was starring in his own one-man show at the 2008 Commercialbank Qatar Masters, presented by Dolphin Energy, twelve celebrities from sport and entertainment took the time to soak up the atmosphere of the middle leg of the European Tour’s ‘Desert Swing’ at Doha Golf Club. Six stars, all guests of title sponsors Commercialbank, played in the pre-event Rolex Pro-Am. Cricketer Sir Ian Botham fared best claiming second overall with Henrik Stenson in his team, while the remaining
celebs - tennis legend Boris Becker, footballer Ian Wright, Olympians Michael Johnson and Sir Steve Redgrave, and glamorous former Bond girl Jane Seymour - found the Doha course a tough opponent on the eve of the $2.5 million event. Australian actress/singer Natalie Imbruglia (pictured) and Bollywood siren Bipasha Basu enjoyed an impromptu putting session with the eventual champion, which obviously had some effect as the world no.4 stormed to a closing round 61 to win by three from Stenson.
Respected hotel and golf industry professional Michael Longshaw has been selected to spearhead the strategic launch of International Golf & Resort Management. An office in Puerto Banus, Spain will serve as a convenient base for contracts underway both in Andalucia and Morocco. ➲ www.igrm.co.uk
MARCH, APRIL & MAY 2008
18 HOLES, 57.50 € AFTER 13.00 HRS - 2 players & buggy
ONLY 110 EUROS
Early birdie before 10.00 9 holes including buggy & breakfast only 30.00 EUROS
Design ©Eat Publishing S.L.
Twilight after 15.00 9 holes including a buggy only 25.00 EUROS per person
ESTEPONA GOLF Arroyo Vaquero, Ctra. de Cádiz Kn 150. Aptdo. 532 Estepona Tel: (+34) 952 93 76 05 / Fax: (+34) 952 93 76 00 www.esteponagolf.com / information@esteponagolf.com
096 EVENTS & LIFESTYLE
Improvements to golf facilities: - A newly formed putting green - A new chipping green - Target greens added - New cart paths & cart parking areas - Creation of two new bridges - The practice facility area will be raised to ensure maximum drainage LE MÉRIDIEN PENINA l PORTUGAL
A stunning Resort in the Algarve, Portugal and surrounded by its 3 golf courses, Le Méridien Penina is set in a fine location just 5 km away from the beautiful sandy beaches of Alvor and Portimao. Currently the hotel is refurbishing its 196 bedrooms and bathrooms, including the introduction of new elements such as: the new Le Méridien Bed, automatic mini bar, electronic safe, high speed internet access and flat screen TVs. All room
corridors and terrace of the main lounge will also be refurbished. The investment carried out at Le Méridien Penina also includes the complete renewal of the Driving Range as well as of some golf facilities, listed here. The investments underline the commitment of Le Méridien Penina towards their guests and to further improve their unique property. Call or visit the website for more information.
- Over seeding of the entire area - New irrigation system will be in place Le Méridien Penina Golf & Resort ➲ www.starwoodhotels.com ✆ (+351) 282 420 200 ✴ (+351) 282 420 300
BAHÍA GOLF, ESTEPONA l SPAIN Enjoying beautiful views of the Mediterranean and set in an exclusive front line golf location surrounded by a new 18-hole golf course, Bahía Golf finds itself in the midst of what is fast becoming one of the most sought after spots in the entire region.
➲ www.bahia-golf.com ➩ comercialestepona@pallahnos.com ✆ (+34) 951 64 84 16 or (+34) 618 69 65 52
Located at the west end of the Costa del Sol’s ‘New Golden Mile’ between Marbella and Sotogrande and just a few minutes away from the Marina of Estepona, which will be soon the biggest and most chic yacht harbour of Europe, once the expansion project is completed. With numerous top notch golf courses and the choice of some of southern Spain’s finest sandy beaches and secluded coves, Bahía Golf offers the classic sun kissed lifestyle you have been dreaming about.
Every house has its own underground garage, with storeroom and direct access into the house, and for the ultimate well being of body and mind there is the Wellness Center at Bahía Golf. During the day, relax and unwind in the jacuzzi or sauna. There’s also a heated indoor pool, a fully equipped gymnasium and a wide range of other activities. The houses echo traditional Andalusian architecture, yet every concession has been made to today’s requirements for security, comfort, convenience and stylish outdoor living and entertaining. The terraces of each house are extravagant in both size and layout whilst interiors adopt a style of light, bright, wide open spaces to take advantage of the seemingly endless Mediterranean sunshine.
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fischer open golf series
➲ www.fischeropen.com / www.eat-golf.com ➩ golf@mercedes-consulting.com ✆ (+34) 663 958 739 ✴ (+34) 952 822 717
READY FOR THE NEW SEASON
The Grand Final of the Fischer Open Golf Series is upon us, taking place on Sunday 30th March at the exclusive La Zagaleta, Los Barrancos Course designed by Jonathan Gaunt and Steve Marnoch. The series has attracted a wide selection of golfers who enjoy these relaxed, friendly and professionally organised events, including former Ryder Cup
star Eddie Polland who played at San Roque with Michael Sherlock, Business Development Manager for Fiduciary Wealth Management Ltd, (sponsors of the final at La Zagaleta) part of the Fiduciary group of companies in Gibraltar, who provide international clients with solutions in Wealth Management, Corporate Trust and Marine Services. The second season tees off in May, with an incredible line-up of courses and another chance to win a brand new Mercedes for a hole-in-one, courtesy of the event hosts, Fischer Mercedes and Fischer 2 Selected Cars.
From left to right: Former Ryder Cup Star Eddie Polland, host Walter Fischer Senior, and Michael Sherlock from the Fiduciary Group in Gibraltar.
This season will see a greater focus on separating the handicap categories, with the winners of each gaining automatic qualification to the final event of the season. Prizes will be awarded based on individual stableford and pairs stableford aggregate scores.
Saturday 3rd May 2008 La Reserva Golf Club Sunday 15th June Finca Cortesin Golf Resort Sunday 13th July Aloha Golf Club Sunday 10th August Los Naranjos Golf Club Sunday, 14th September Santa Clara Golf Club Saturday 27th September Annual Charity Gala Sunday 12th October Marbella Club Golf Resort Sunday 9th November La Reserva Golf Club Sunday 14th December Almenara Golf Club Sunday 11th January 2009 To be confirmed Sunday 8th February The San Roque Club Sunday 8th March Grand Final at La Zagaleta