February 2020

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The Burstead Golf Club

www.essexgolfer.com ESSEX GOLFER MAGAZINE – SERVING THE GOLFERS OF ESSEX SINCE 1996

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FEBRUARY SPECIALS Specials F EB R U ARY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; S O C I E T Y & GROUP SPECIAL .= ;2> ;554> :8->#<=>%>);((<<> >0 >!;5<4> >!= >,33>%>)-:'4>;7>/ = ':>%>)-:'4 948>*$ >'<7>'<74;2 ;21=6>8;> 7:1=6> #<<>+((>=(8<7>0 =

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7c Perry Road, Witham, Essex CM8 3UD Witham Telephone: 01621 815 577 Email: team@essexgolfer.com

www.essexgolfer.com @EssexGolfer1 EDITOR Paul Haddow E

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The Burstead Golf Club

www.essexgolfer.com ESSEX GOLFER MAGAZINE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SERVING THE GOLFERS OF ESSEX SINCE 1996

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Essex Golfer Magazine is available free of charge both in print* or as a digital document. To receive your free copy apply online at www.essexgolfer.com or email us at team@essexgolfer.com.

*(ONLY AVAILABLE TO UK POSTCODES).

The opinions expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers.

Copyright.

No part of this publication may be scanned, digitised, reproduced or photocopied, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted, in any way or means, either by recording or otherwise, without prior permission of the publishers in writing.

Advertisements created by Essex Golfer remain the property of the Company and may not be reproduced in any other publication without prior permission.

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A WARM WELCOME AWAITS ... at Ballards Gore Golf Club

3 MONTH 7 DAY TRIAL MEMBERSHIP Available year round

Only £199 3 MONTH TRIAL MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT WILL BE DEDUCTED FROM THE PRICE OF ANY 12 MONTH GOLF CATEGORY IF TAKEN UP TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY

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Vistors are welcome at Ballards Gore Golf Club.

Green fees are available from:

7 day Membership available from £375.00

Society packages available from

Joining pack included to the value of £200

Winter –

Monday / Friday from 8.00am Saturday – From 12.00pm Sunday – From 10.00am

Twilight Golf

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7 Day £1225 5 Day - (Mon – Fri) £1025.00 7 Day (Age 30 – 35) £985.00 7 Day (Age 26 – 29) £850.00 7 Day (Age 22 –25) £650.00 7 Day (Age 18 – 21) £375.00

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Summer –

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Additional Green Fees Applies £375.00 Junior (Under 18) £100.00 Please note membership prices do not include the following: Bar Levy, Union Affiliation Fees and Committee Levy

BALLARDS GORE GOLF CLUB

www.ballardsg o r e . c o m Gore Road, Canewdon, Essex SS4 2DA Telephone: 01702 258917 • Pro Shop: 01702 258924

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ESSEX JUNIOR GOLF OF THE YEAR has been selected for the England East Region Coaching Squad and joins Millie Penfold (Thorpe Hall) and Sophie Wheeler (Thorndon Park) for coaching at Stoke by Nayland. Much thought goes into working out the Junior Golfer of the Year and after looking at the detail of competitions played, consistency throughout the year, reduction in handicap, and selection for County teams we are delighted to announce that the Junior Golfer of the Year award goes to Ciara Rushmer (Boyce Hill).

Unfortunately Ciara was not at the Girls' Autumn Meeting as she was on a school trip this week in L.A.!

Ciara reduced her handicap from 13.1 to 7.3. This was a steady reduction through the year with 31 qualifying scores entered, 9 at her previous Club Langdon Hills. Ciara also entered 5 supplementary scores and had 2 exceptional score reductions. She played in 7 Junior Opens at away courses - Foxhills,

S

everal girls were considered for this prestigious award. Aspects that were looked at included player activity at Club, County, Regional and National levels; a commitment to player development, participation in both individual and team events, and evidence of achievement.

We congratulate all the girls who have played for the County Teams this year and in particular those that have achieved their goals both in lowering their handicaps and winning competitions at their home clubs and at other courses. Overall it is encouraging the level of commitment that is being shown and the time and eďŹ&#x20AC;ort given to participating in the game.

We highly commend Amy Knotts (Chigwell) who The Bedford, Oak Park, Maylands, Stoke by Nayland, Thorpe Hall, and Hadley Wood. Ciara also played in the Norman Garon Trust Community Tour, the Essex Schools Championship, and South East Schools Championship. Ciara played in the County Girls meetings and the Essex Ladies Silver Open Meeting; County 2nd Team and Junior Teams, both at East Region County Match Days and in the East Region Junior Team Trophy - in torrential rain she managed to score a gross 78 reducing her handicap from 8.6 to 7.3! In the ďŹ nal of the Logan Trophy Ciara had a close match against Amy Knotts winning on the 17th hole. Overall, Ciara has progressed steadily throughout the season and has had some impressive results both in individual competition and in team matches. We look forward to watching her progress further next year and congratulate her on winning Junior Golfer of the Year 2019.

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S 2 LY E 1 N UT A O IN HE M T 3 OM FR Surrounded by stunning Constable Country, Brett Vale golf course offers a challenge to players of all ages and handicaps; along with first class facilities.

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EXCEPTIONAL WINTER DRAINAGE PROPRIETORS HAVE MADE MASSIVE INVESTMENT WITH ALL NEW TORO MACHINERY

BE WOWED BY WOODBRIDGE W

oodbridge Golf Club has completed a major project on its heath course, on time and on budget, despite the atrocious wet weather before Christmas. Under the guidance of renowned course architect, Martin Hawtree, all bunkers were refurbished with 12 completely re-built in a six week period and 400 tons of new buckbricks natural sand added. Not content with just the bunker programme, the club also had contractors on site to remove gorse, scrub and trees in accordance with its long term strategic plan and in association with an STRI Agronomist. The beautiful courses, set in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near the Suffolk coast, have received excellent reviews from both members and visitors for the work carried out. Despite unprecedented rainfall over the last three months of 2019, both courses have remained open, with buggies available most days, truly representing year round golf.

Sean Clark, Club Secretary stated “This is everything and more we could have wished for and yet is just part of the ongoing improvements and investment the club is making to improve the courses and facilities for both members and guests.

We are continually improving our courses and although a consistent performer in the Top 100 England rankings, we have aspirations to make it into the Top 50. One thing is for sure though; everyone receives a warm welcome at Woodbridge and will not be disappointed by what the club has to offer.”

Pictures are of removal of an old bunker and new bunker on 3rd hole.

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Rochford Hundred Golf Club SEVEN DAY ADULT MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE FROM

£490

WINTER GOLFING OFFERS DURING FEBRUARY

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SUBJECT TO AVAILA B I L I T Y TERMS AND CONDITIO N S A P P LY.

B O O K I N ADVANCE WITH CLUB SECRETARY 01702 544302 admin@roc hfordhundredgolfclub.co.uk Roc hford Hundred Golf Club Hall Road, Roc hford, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS4 1NW

w w w. ro c h fo rd h u n d re d go l f c l u b. c o. u k

COLIN’S LATE SHOW CLAIMS THE PRESIDENTS CUP AT FIVE LAKES

C

olin Jenkins (16) late entry into this year’s Presidents New Year Cup gave him the opportunity to win the first stroke play competition of 2020.

He scored one birdie on the 12th hole par 5 and a further eight pars to come with a nett 69 on the par 72 Lakes course to win the trophy.

Second place went to Malcolm Pitt (10) with nett 70 and also picking up the lowest gross score of 80 to win the scratch prize. Third place went to the long-time clubhouse leader John Robertson (12) with a nett 71. There were other notable scores from Dave Chignell (13) with a nett 73, and three other players with nett 74's, club captain Clive Weir (15), Graham Doherty (13) Mike Taylor (13) and Mick Gill (12). There were nine players winning birdie balls for two's on the par 3’s. Mark Harlow, Eric Christopherson, and Pat McSweeney on the 4th, Alan Garnett on the 11th and Chris Graham, James

L to R James Adams with the OOM Trophy, Barry Boniface Club President presenting Colin Jenkins the with the Presidents New Year Trophy.

Adams, Phil Gilham Clive Taylor and Dave Chignell on the 16th.

The President took the opportunity at the prize giving to award the winner of the 2019 order of merit trophy to 12 handicapper James Adams.

NEW HALL THROUGH TO THE NATIONAL FINALS

T

hursday 23rd January New Hall school competed in the ISGA Matchplay regional finals vs Haileybury School at Orsett Golf Club.

From the start of the day, the boys knew they were in for a tough game as Haileybury school on paper were better on handicaps than the boys. However, in match play, this changes everything. Over the course of the day Oliver, Henry and Freddie played some fantastic golf and having that hunger to win and desire to reach the National Finals was something all three boys were wanting to do.

Freddie started things off in New Hall’s favour by winning his game 5&4 against a tough opponent of a handicap of 2. Over the final few holes, both Oliver and henry’s matches were neck

and neck. Oliver made a great comeback from being three down with five holes to play to taking it A/S up the last. Henry’s match was also a tough battle with again another of Haileybury finest plyers but Henry showed him no mercy from playing some excellent golf it comes down in the to the 18th hole. Henry’s match was A/S going up 18 but this was not enough which led to Henry having to complete extra holes. As Henry was walking back to complete a playoff hole, Oliver took to the final hole with a chance to win his match and put New Hall through to the National finals. A very calm and collective final hole played from Oliver saw him complete the 18th in match play style beating his playing partner by one stroke to, therefore, win his match 1 up and take New Hall through the National Finals.

From this success, this, therefore, means that New Hall advances to the ISGA National Matchplay Finals in April being held at Formby Golf Club. This will be the first time New Hall School have made it through to the National Finals in the ISGA Matchplay.

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ion eti t om p eC Pr iz

Mystery Hole

DOES THIS GREAT ESSEX GOLF HOLE LOOK FAMILIAR?

Name the course and hole to have the chance of winning A FOURBALL ON THE MYSTERY COURSE, 12 SRIXON Z STAR GOLF BALLS, courtesy of plus 2 of each VEGAS BALL MARKERS, Golf Rules COLCHESTER Quick Reference Book and the Trouble Shots and Quick Fix Guide Please email your answer to team@essexgolfer.com All correct answers will be entered into a draw for the prize Winner will be notified by email. Answer will be published next edition.

Only 1 entry per person. No cash equivalent.

You can also enter this competition on online at www.essexgolfer.com

Last month’s winner was Darren Law ION T I T who recognised the 1st Hole at R E P NE Harwich and Dovercourt Golf Club M CO WIN To play at Harwich and Dovercourt Golf Club Call: (01255) 503616 www.harwichanddovercourtgolfclub.com

COLCHESTER 75 LONDON ROAD, COPFORD, COLCHESTER, ESSEX CO6 1LG

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KNOCKOUT STAGES FOR COLCHESTER GOLF CLUB’S WINTER LEAGUE

W

ith ten leagues, eight pairs in each, starting the qualifying stages last October all 160 members have squelched and fought their way through their matches to try and qualify for the knockout stages of this ever popular competition.

Most winters throw up some weather anomaly and it needs no telling that rain has been the one deciding factor this year. So much so that whilst the leagues were scheduled to be finished last weekend the competition had to be extended to allow the remaining matches to be completed.

There are two leagues played on Saturday with Phil Hayward and Michael Blakebrough almost certain to qualify out of one of the leagues. With two pairs qualifying from each league the second qualifier from this league has yet to be determined.

Likewise in Saturday’s second league whilst Chris Blakebrough along with partner Rory Wilson and second pairing Scott Vass and Peter Quinn are both on nine points last year’s finalists Duncan Smith and Peter Anderson are lying with a match in hand and could spoil the party.

In Sunday's league one it is too tight to call and any pairing of four could qualify with last year’s

winners Ed Pain and Matt Black in pole position it’s theirs to loose.

Again, in league two, it is too tight to call and with matches to play in league three Donald Parish and Joe Jackson along with Louis Partner and Josh Ely all looking well, but there are still matches to complete.

League four has the father and son pairing of Richard and Guy Haines along with Kris Lee and Ashley Yates both on eight points and poised to qualify.

The familiar pairing of Bill Eke and Stuart Reed crop up in league five who along with Thomas Pitt and Thomas Duffy should get through. League six throws up one clear winning pair, Mike Withers and Colin Gathercole, who on eleven points are unbeaten.

Finally Sunday’s league eight has Keith Jacobs and Terry Barfield in pole position but again in these competitive leagues there are matches to finish and the second spot is, as yet, still up for grabs.

The knockout matches will start in a couple of weeks’ time and weather permitting the aim is to have the final played by the 12th April.

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A friendly welcome awaits you at

Gosfield Lake Golf Club Imagine all the people Playing golf in peace WINTER SOCIETIES

Competitive prices from £22 for bacon roll, coffee and golf Days tailor made to your requirements. Choices available from coffee, bacon rolls, full English breakfast, lunches and dinners 18 or 27 holes of golf.

Please ring the office to reserve your society day.

Green Fee Winter Specials Lakes Course £20*

“Possibly the best 18 holes in North Essex”

Meadows Course £15*

“Challenging 9-hole Executive Course” (*includes £5 voucher to use in the clubhouse)

Twilight Golf Contact Pro shop for tee times and best prices.

New Members Welcome Join Now Quality golf – no joining fee Special Introductory Offer For further details please telephone:

Office 01787 474 747 Pro-Shop 01787 474 488 Email: gosfieldlakegc@btconnect.com Or visit our website: www.gosfield-lake-golf-club.co.uk Hall Drive, Gosfield, Halstead, Essex CO9 1SE

STOKE BY NAYLAND LADY VETS ANNUAL COMPETITION

O

n Wednesday the 11th December saw the annual competition with the SbN Lady Vets.

Played over 13 holes on the Gainsborough course, it was a bright but exceptionally windy day which made the 1st, 5th and 6th holes particularly awkward and, in our case, the 5th shot on the 10th quite demanding!

Senior mystery pairs winners Bob Halls and Steve Dale.

MYSTERY PAIRS AT PLAYGOLF

P

laygolf Colchester seniors played their annual Mystery Pairs Competition. As usual, the players tee up not knowing who their partner is when they start the round, they only discover who they drew after entering their scores. With very wet conditions, scores were always going to be low, with the winning pair Bob Halls (34) and Steve Dale (24) recording 30 and 29 points respectively to win, totaling 59 points. Jeff Coles (18) and David Field (21) took second place on a combined 57 points with Tony Nudds (29) and Paddy Hanvey (10) in third with their 56 point total.

Much thanks needs to go to Barbara Rowe, who masterminded the competition and completed most of the arrangements, and to Trish Jackson, who coordinated everything. Many thanks indeed.

Congratulations must go to Lesley Hitchcock, victorious once again but with a new partner this year in Mike Moore. Well done to you both.

STEVE WINS WHISKY CUP F

ive Lakes Men’s section played their annual Whisky competition on the Links course Friday 27th December. It sometimes makes you wonder why we carry a bag full of golf clubs when we see some of the scores made using only 4 clubs.

It was no problem for 15 handicapper Steve Smith who accumulated 40 Stableford points over the 18 holes, second place went to Peter Millar (17) with 38 points followed by 3rd place Chris Graham (18) on 37 points. There were three players with 36 points, John Robertson, Les Powell and Lee Stafford to be just outside the main prizes.

Mark Harlow scored a 2 on the 16th par 3 to win a pack of balls.

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Limited number available Sign up NOW impulseleisure.co.uk/18for12 or for more information call (01708) 856219 BelhusParkGolfCourse Charity number: Thurrock Community Leisure 1080186

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w w w. t h e b u r s t e a d g o l f c l u b . c o m - 19 -

ROMFORD GOLF CLUB INVESTS FOR THE FUTURE

A

fter and incredibly successful 125 celebration year Romford Golf Club is investing heavily in 2020.

Firstly the club have invested £40,000 in a bore hole which is now installed and running.

Secondly they have instructed contractor Prime Irrigation to install fairway irrigation to all holes at a cost of £320,000. The Works start mid-January and are planned to last 10 weeks. And thirdly the introduction for the first time of 2 seater buggies at Romford for hire, with 5 buggies on order from Bradshaw’s for the Spring. Club Manager Richard Hall explained “The last two hot summers have caught us out with the fairways not being the standard we would want and clearly the weather and climate is changing and we have to change too. The Bore hole was the first investment and obviously gives us the cheapest option for the water required for the fairways. The members have had the best greens, tees & approaches this year and the fairways need to be the same, that’s why the decision has been made to invest now. The Buggy commitment is a no brainer with more and more societies needing buggies for their older members and this is also an investment for the future.

STOKE BY NAYLAND LADIES

L

ily-may Humphrey’s and Corinne Jackson were the winners of the Stoke By Nayland Weekend Ladies Christmas 18 Hole Greensomes competition on the Gainsborough course with only 4 shots to play with they manage to achieve an amazing 36pts beating Lucy Cater and Sarah

Viners who came in with 33pts, Lesley Hitcock and Elaine Davidson came 3rd with 32pts.

Front 9 hole winners were Mal Went and Kate Fitzgerald with 17pts Back 9 hole winners were Mandy Byham and Suzanne Shaw-Smith with 16pts.

After another night of heavy rain the already soaked course got another soaking, making the playing conditions much harder for the ladies as the balls plugged and there was no run on the balls.

Lady Captain Jane Golding laid on light refreshments at the halfway hut which were greatly appreciated by the ladies. After the competition the ladies enjoyed a Christmas meal and presentation. Over the two days the ladies had donated food for the Sudbury food bank and also a raffle raised over £300 for Lady Captains charity Alzheimer’s Society.

- 20 -

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NEW YEAR NEW YOU? F

irstly, Happy New Year! At this time of year everyone is making their New Years resolutions or breaking them, one way or another! Did you make any resolutions regarding your Golf for this year? If so in this article I am going to talk about my top 4 tips to be a better golfer ...

GO TO THE GYM The most common thing i hear from a golfer re using the gym is “golf isn’t a sport”. This could not be further from the truth, golfers are very much athletes and should start treating their bodies this way. Functional training including core work, postural work and strength work, stretching and mobilising will help your golf so find yourself a good, qualified trainer to help you.

GET TREATED 90% of the golfers i meet have an untreated injury.

Back pain, shoulder injury, knee pain, hip pain and much more. What baffles me is most of that 90% do not get this treated! I hear golfers say things like “back pain just comes with golf”. This is not true, golf is a very demanding sport and the body over time, gets tired, very tight and needs some help! Find yourself a good osteopath and sports massage therapist and have regular treatments. I can highly recommend and osteopath and sports massage therapist, so feel free to contact me and i am happy to pass on details.

FUEL RIGHT Start feeding your body right. Nutrition plays a huge part in golf performance. Balancing the blood sugar levels and being in the best shape you can be will improve your golf tremendously.

The body is like a car, put the right fuel in, at the right times and at regular intervals and it will go a long way. Put the wrong fuel in, let the tank run empty and do this regularly enough and the car will break down, start to age prematurely and not get very far at all.

MAKE GOALS Make some goals for 2020, what you want to achieve this year, how you want to improve and courses you want to play. Fail to plan, plan to fail.

Goal setting can be really motivational and make a lot of people work much harder and can also help motivate you to stick to a routine. Goals can be as simple as “I want to play gold without pain!”

Any questions or advice needed feel free to contact me, I'm happy to help.

- 22 -

Time for a break?

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Frinton Golf Club GOLF SOCIETIES PACKAGES 2020 We offer a variety of packages to suit your needs, your taste and your budget.

We can tailor a package for you or you may select one of the suggested packages.

We are pleased to provide a free 4 ball voucher for use as a prize to all societies that book with us.

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Coffee & Bacon Roll 18 Holes

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A limited number of weekend afternoon dates are available, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Frinton Golf Club

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Telephone: 01255 682453 / 674618 office@frintongolfclub.com www.frintongolfclub.com

- 23 -

Lee Porter, the PGA Professional attached to Hylands Golf Complex is not only one of Europe’s most respected club-makers but also manages Accra Golf & True Temper Plus Europe. He is responsible for all after sales of Accra, True Temper, Project X & Grafalloy golf shafts within the EU. He is also a Certified Flightscope Professional, a member of the Flightscope UK Advisory Board and teaches the Flightscope Certification Course.

The Longer The Driver Shaft

The Further The Ball Goes:

NO!

D

istance comes from ball speed, not club head speed. What I mean by this is that of course club head speed is important but it has to be applied correctly.

Your ball speed is totally reliant on your quality of strike and this is where driver shaft length becomes important. Your driver shaft should be long enough for you to consistently hit the sweet spot, therefore maximising your ball speed. Too long a shaft will result in poor strikes resulting in shorter drives and lost golf balls.

An interesting point here is what shaft length top professional's use - many use what would seem to be very short drivers (especially by today's standards).

Many 'off the shelf' drivers are now between 45.5" and 46" when the likes of Bubba Watson use a driver of 44.5". In fact when Tiger Woods was playing his best it was reported that his driver shaft was actually 43" long - which by todays ‘standard’ is a three wood!

Paul McGinley has also used 43” driver.

Like all of your equipment your driver shaft length should be what you need, not what a company wants to sell. With the driver often being the most challenging club in the bag the correct shaft length will really help.

- 24 24--

NEW MEMBERSHIP

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Craig Lockwood Head PGA Professional at Forrester Park Golf Club.

I am a coach for all abilities, from avid club golfers, to touring professionals on mini tours up to the European Tour. I believe in player development and cover all aspects of the game.

M: 07833 433 766 E: craig@forrester-park.co.uk Craig Lockwood Golf Coach

HOW TO STRUCTURE

YOUR PRACTICE!

F

irstly, I’d like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and I hope your 2020 golf season is a great one. Last issue, I wrote that many of us receive a lot of great info from our lessons but don’t always practice efficiently or make the most of our practice time. I mentioned about the different types of practice you should do. The TECHNICAL, RANDOM and TESTING practice. This month I will write about the importance of the TECHNICAL practice and how to do it.

I believe that if you don’t structure your practice correctly, no matter how much effort that individual puts in, their ability to progress and get better is limited. Even though they could be putting in a lot of time and effort, this doesn’t always correlate to improvements. Does this sound like you? Lots of effort but limited progression. Perhaps restructure your practice.

TECHNICAL PRACTICE Please remember that technical practice is important otherwise we will never get better from an ability perspective. However, this type of practice should still only be 30%-50% of your practice time.

When doing this form of practice, I encourage people to work on doing the 5,5,5 drills. Count out balls into lots of 5 balls.

FIRST 5 BALLS: DEEP PRACTICE These 5 balls should be your deep practice balls, 1 or 2 slow practice swings before every ball. With these 5 balls, you should try to complete the swing change you are trying to make in slow motion. You will do a full-sized swing however the ball may only travel 30 yards.

SECOND 5 BALLS: MEDIUM PRACTICE Introduce a target prior to hitting these ball and again, with these 5 balls be consistent with 1 or 2 rehearsal swings prior to each ball. Hit these next 5 balls at 50% power with the main focus still very much on the movements you are trying to feel in your swing. Essentially you are speeding up your deep practice moves.

LAST 5 BALLS: TARGET PRACTICE These 5 balls are now at full speed with more of a focus on the outcome of the ball. The idea is what you have practiced before should start to happen more at full speed. With your last 5 balls ensure you have 3 things, 1 a clear target, 2 you have visualised the shot you are trying to hit and fully commit to your normal speed swing.

Once you have completed your last set of 5 balls.

Repeat the process to 2, 3 or 4 times depending on the amount of balls you get for your practice.

Remember technical practice should be a maximum of 50% of the balls you start with. Try the above and see how you get on, this has got to be better than not structuring your practice at all.

Be aware of how focused your practice has become and how aware you are of creating a change. You would never go to the gym without a plan, so as a golfer you should never go the range without a plan! Next Month I will elaborate more on your RANDOM practice.

- 26 -

Winter Special 18 Holes of Golf and Chef ’s Special

GOLF • CLUB

£28 Monday to Friday £35 Saturday to Sunday

Visitors Welcome Twilight from 12.00pm £19

9 Holes £10 from 1.00pm Contact pro shop for tee time reservations For further information on membership please contact Chris Nunn Director of Golf

01277 631 171

on chris.nunn@thebursteadgolfclub.com Tye Common Road, Little Burstead, Billericay, Essex, CM12 9SS info@thebursteadgolfclub.com

w w w. t h e b u r s t e a d g o l f c l u b . c o m

- 27 -

STOKE BY NAYLAND GOLF CLUB – SUPPORTING MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH

O

n Saturday 7th December the Stoke by Nayland Golf Club Men’s Yuletide was played on the Gainsborough course. Despite recent bad weather a fabulous day was had in good

Ryan Curtis, Chris Lloyd, Richard Allen and Cyril Williams, Vice-Captain.

conditions, and the course held up well thanks to the efforts of the greenkeepers.

There were 52 players in the field playing for the prizes of fresh turkeys for the first three places.

Darren Renshaw and Conor Garvey won first prize with a better ball score of 48 points. After the golf the players enjoyed a Xmas lunch followed by a horse race afternoon.

The event was held to launch the Men’s Captain’s Charity for 2020. Richard Allen, the new Men’s Captain, introduced Ryan Curtis from The Club Talks, a charity that boosts mental health through golf. Ryan talked about how mental health is the biggest killer of men under 45 years and the cause of 18 deaths every day! Chris Lloyd, a current European Tour Golfer then spoke about his own mental health challenges.

The whole day raised £343 towards the charity.

The money raised through the year is split 50% to CALM (Campaign against Living Miserably) a national mental health charity, and 50% for training golf clubs in Mental Health First Aid.

TURKEY TROT AT THE ESSEX GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

O

n a lovely Sunny but chilly winters morning there was a fantastic turn out of over 50 seniors at the Essex Golf and Country Club for this year’s Turkey Trot competition.

In 3rd place with a very creditable score of 36 points was Dave Adams. In 2nd place with an excellent score of 37 points was Roger Springett and the winner with a brilliant 38 Winners of the Turkey Trot and nearest the pin being presented with stableford points was Ron their prizes from this year’s Seniors Captain Jeff Robinson.

Gilzean.

Christmas lunch, award ceremony and Trophy NTP on the par 3 130 yard 5th hole was won by presentation for the winners of all this year’s Ron Gilzean, NTP on the 150 yard par 3 11th hole competitions presented by last year’s Seniors was won by Craig Fletcher.

Captain John Tuffen and this year’s Seniors The game was followed by our annual Captain Jeff Robinson.

- 28 -

OUTER SPACE HIGH JINKS AT CHELMSFORD GOLF CLUB

T

he exploration of outer space was very much the theme at the drive-in of Chelmsford Golf Club’s new Captain David Curd. David is well known for his fascination with space travel and has in fact met two of the men who walked on the Moon. Given this the theme of his drive-in was a given. Dressed as NASA engineers in gleaming white overalls adorned with the Stars and Stripes, three of David’s friends arrived on the 10th tee in a ‘moon buggy’ and proceeded to clad him in his wings and space helmet.

After the release of the ceremonial rocket David struck his opening shot regrettably, as can be seen, using an exploding golf ball. The spectacle was enjoyed by a large number of David’s fellow Chelmsford members. David’s special project of his Captain’s is to raise funds for the restoration of the club’s practice bunker.

LADIES CHRISTMAS MADNESS

T

he ladies of Playgolf staged their annual Mulled Wine and Mince Pies Madness Day, extending an invite to all members. The format for the day was a 14-hole Texas Scramble, with teams consisting of one lady and two gentlemen. Mulled wine and mince pies were enthusiastically

Ladies Madness day winning side (L to R) Gavin Sadler, Linda Marshall and Trevor Cocksedge.

received by all at the halfway house. The winning team, by the slimmest of margins, of just 0.2 of a shot, producing an excellent score of nett 49 was Gavin Sadler, Linda Marshall and Trevor Cocksedge. Hot on their heels in second place with the score of 49.2 was Ann Longman, Jack Blackman and Phil Murphy. Nikki Brown, Michael Johnson and Jeff Coles carded nett 51 to take third place. Other prizes were awarded to Sally Pettitt and Jack Blackman for ladies and gents nearest the pins.

Much fun was had by all and, due to the generosity of all concerned, the splendid sum of £370 was raised for the Lady Captain’s, Lucy Sadler’s, Charity, The Motor Neurone Disease Association.

- 30 -

COLCHESTER’S JUNIOR PRESENTATION

Back Row: Cody Zhou, Arian Masud, Ollie Baker, Theo Baker, Ed Mason, Guy Haines, Clive Mason (Jnr. Organiser). Front Row: John Parker, Romy Bozier (Junior captain 2020), Alanna Mathews, Kingsley Mathews and Charlie Mason.

C

olchester Golf Club Jcelebrated their Junior Section with a presentation evening at the Club.

Losing a number of the older juniors at the end of 2018 allowed the next generation to come through and shine. Although success in county competitions did not come, a team won the Jason Moss Trophy at Clacton, the team’s scorers were Arian Masud, Micah Blowers, Charley Allison and Max Day. Whilst team success in County competitions was out of reach, individual talent is coming through the section and to underline this Ed Mason won the Essex Schools Under-Fourteen Boys Championship along with the County OrderOf-Merit Under-14 (Div. 2) boys.

Alanna Mathews showed that her talent was not to be ignored by taking first place in the Under-14 Girls Division. Ollie Baker took fourth place in the Under- 14 (Div 1) whilst Theo Baker at fifteenyears old, came third in the Under-18 Division!

Theo also added the Romford Junior Open to his quiver.

Internally Arian Masud, now playing off three, claimed the Junior Club Championship with two rounds totalling 140, two shots better than the

winner of the Club Championship. To this win Masud added the Centenary Medal and the Remembrance Stableford.

Naturally the Baker Boys were to the fore. From the main Club competitions Theo won the Elmstead Cup and the Millennium Trophy and Ollie carried away the Cooper Bland Cup. In junior competitions Theo did a double with the Junior Elmstead and Ollie won the St.Patrick’s Day Stableford, plus the Autumn Stableford. As if that was not enough he secured the Most Improved Golfer of 2019 and not surprisingly the Junior Order-of-Merit title.

Guy Haines was represented with the Spring Trophy and, along with his father Richard, he won the Barnes Cup for the second time in three years.

Haines also won the Junior Captain’s Day. Another talented pair of brothers are Charlie and Ollie Allison who divide their time between cricket and golf, managing to excel in each. Ollie won the Valentine‘s Stableford whilst brother Charlie won the Halloween Stableford and the Club’s Junior Open.

Cody Zhou was able to pocket the Summer Sizzler Series and the End of Year Trophy was won

by Ed Mason.

- 31 -

Warren Sargent, PGA Professional based at The Essex G&CC and Coach at Golf World Stansted.

Warren is a Zen Putting Mechanic (A Complete Putting Strategy).

Coach to all level of golfer including Touring Pro’s.

M: 07888 828 760 E: wozthegolfpro1@gmail.com

IMPROVING YOUR GAME TAKES A LOT OF EFFORT! I

hope 2020 has started well for you? Did you all make a golfing resolution for the year ahead? The reason for asking, is that I know a number of golfers who don’t necessarily put a plan together to help improve their game. They might have a lesson here and there or do it when things have reached rock bottom and ask a Professional to see what is wrong with their game. It always means that you are reacting rather than planning. Over the years the golfers who have put a long-term plan together achieve their goals. It takes time and effort to achieve, but by putting your mind to your project of being a better golfer, success eventually happens.

I have countless stories of people of all abilities who I have helped to either improve their Putting or any part of their game, by putting a plan together.

Just over 2 years ago I became a Mind Factor Coach. On the 3 day course in Manchester, Karl Morris showed and explained many techniques that I am still working on to this day to help me be the best coach I can. By investing in myself, it’s helping me to coach better and even start to believe I can be a better player than when I was younger.

One of the most interesting topics we discussed was rewatching The Apollo 11 launch, when in 1969 it took us Humans to the Moon. It took 500,000 litres of fuel to get out of Earth’s gravitational pull. A lot of effort you may say!!! Well in order to make something happen, it takes a lot of effort from yourself to take you from where you are to where you want to get too. Basically I am saying if you want to achieve anything in your golf, make

a lot of effort to begin with and along the journey just keep that momentum going. To take us to The Moon in the 1st place, it took years of development to make it happen and this is how you need to treat your golf. You the golfer can decide whatever you want, but without that Desire, Effort and Energy, you may have some good days, but more often you may suffer disappointment and possible dismay.

If you want to put a plan together to help transform your Putting or any area of your Golf, please either call me 07888 828 760 or email wozthegolfpro1@gmail.com

- 32 -

I have 2 offers for February and March; 3 Hours of Flightscope £100 4 Hours of Quintic and Zen Green Stage £175 Remember D + E + E = SUCCESS Happy Golfing,

VETERANS OPEN DAY WEDNESDAY 24TH JUNE 2020 Competition commencing at 9am – Entrants in pairs will be drawn together

Donations to Charity Open to men aged 55 and over on the day of the competition Handicap Limit 24 18 Holes Individual Stableford (non qualifying) Prizes for 1st, 2nd, 3rd Best front 9, Best back 9 Nearest the Pin and Nearest the Line

Closing date Friday 12th June 2020 Entry Fee £39.00 per person Includes Coffee and Mini Breakfast on Arrival and Afternoon Buffet Please send completed entry form and fee to: Orsett Golf Club, Brentwood Road, Orsett, Essex RM16 3DS Tel: 01375 891 352 Cheques made payable to: Orsett Golf Club PLAYER A Name:

Surname:

Address: Postcode:

Tel. No.:

Email:

Club:

Handicap:

CDH No:

Special Dietary Requirements: PLAYER B Name:

Surname:

Address: Postcode:

Tel. No.:

Email:

Club:

Handicap:

CDH No:

Special Dietary Requirements:

PLEASE RETAIN THIS SECTION FOR YOUR REFERENCE ORSETT GOLF CLUB VETERANS OPEN DAY 24th JUNE 2020 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Draw will be made week commencing 15th June 2020 on a first come first served basis.

For successful applicants, cheques will be cashed after the draw has taken place.

Starting times and tee allocations will be informed to first named entrant immediately after the draw.

Refunds for cancellations can only be given if notification received by 1st June 2020.

Dress code for lunch will be smart casual. Shorts with short white sport socks may be worn for golf.

THIS COMPETITION IS NOT OPEN TO ORSETT MEMBERS. Cheques will be processed before 11th June 2020.

Registered in England 00242990

PAUL HOLLAND Paul has been coaching in England and Europe for the past 20 years establishing himself as one of the most successful coaches in the South East coaching players on most of the worldwide major tours, including Richard McEvoy (European Open Winner 2018) and Ladies European Tour Professionals Gabriella Cowley and Cloe Frankish. Paul coaches many young aspiring professionals, elite amateurs and the under 16 Essex girls squad.

E: paul@paulhollandgolf.com M: 07961 848 370

NEW YEAR … NEW START … NEW PLAN

ELITE PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT

H

appy new everyone, I really hope 2020 is a great year for us all. As the heading above states, this is the season for new resolutions and changes as we start a new decade. As a coach I am no different and I'm always trying to move forward or at least make positive alterations. Therefore, this year for me is going to have different outlooks and different horizons.

Part 1 of my 2020 changes: As I’ve mentioned before technical coaching (on it’s own) has certain limitations for the overall performance growth of any standard of golfer, except perhaps absolute beginners. For most golfers there are so many other avenues that need to be taken into consideration when you are looking to get the best from the player/client who is paying you to help them improve. This is why my focus will now be split between technical coaching and performance testing on the course and on the range. This testing will allow me to prioritise certain parts of my player’s games to allow maximum improvement in the shortest time. The results so far are nothing short of incredible. Players are responding to the precision of the information given from the testing results which is causing them to change their practice habits on the range, see faster improvements and enjoy their practice more, which is self-perpetuating.

Part 2: I have joined forces with Emily Perry, former tour player who has turned her attention to psychology, NLP and mental skills performance coaching. Emily has the ability and experience to test, improve and measure the mental side of the golf game. The impact that Emily has made to the players that I teach is hard to describe, to the point where I have wanted every player I coach to see her and no one that has seen her so far has not returned for further sessions! Let's hear from a little from Emily about the mental side of the game…

So you’re probably thinking what exactly mental skills are and how can golfers use them to upgrade their confidence and overall performance? You may

have heard the phrase ‘The mental side of the game' but the question on many people's minds is: does it really make a difference? I interviewed some of the top Professionals on the Ladies European Tour (Laura Davies, Lydia Ko, Cheyenne Woods etc) and every single one of them said that in more recent times, they are working very hard on this part of their game with Lydia commenting ‘The mental side is like the 15th club in the bag'. Working on the mental side is also consistent across other sports where many famous athletes regularly comment on the various mental skills they are working on to improve their performances.

Do you sometimes feel nervous on the first tee of your round? Have you ever felt like you've completely 'lost your head' when you've been out playing? Do you have a certain club, shot or hole that always seems to mess up your round? Do you struggle with short putts due to your inner voice saying negative things?

When someone goes to a gym and starts working with a personal trainer, they can improve physical areas such as strength, agility, flexibility etc and over time they will start to see the benefits of the physical work that has been put in. Interestingly, training the mind is very similar as mental skills such as resilience, coping under pressure, focus and visualisation (just to name a few) are all learnable skills and with the correct techniques, anyone can train their mind to perform much better under pressure. In golf mental skills coaching ( just like technical coaching) can achieve outstanding results, especially when you understand your own mind and know how to apply yourself to keep improving. Just imagine how you would perform if you felt more confident, had efficient pre-shot routines in place and knew techniques to use when you felt nervous or anxious. For me, having played on the Tour I know first-hand how tough golf can be and that's why it's always so rewarding to work with Paul to piece together all of the performance aspects for a golfer to ensure that our players can consistently perform

- 34 -

to the best of their ability on the golf course when it matters the most. That's it from me this month, but stay tuned for mental skills advice, facts and stories, and always remember that true strength lies within the mind. Emily Emily and I now work together with many golfers through our business Elite Performance Management to offer the ultimate performance support package for any golfer. We pride ourselves on being able to work with any level of golfer (Tour Professional, Elite Amateur, Junior, Senior, County or Club level) and both love testing and monitoring each player to show our clients their performance improvements. With so many different areas to test and work on (anxieties, course management, emotional control, practice scheduling, event preparation and many more), we are confident that we are covering all the bases for a golfer's development and improvement.

I think it's safe to say that I am looking forward to this year and my divergence into other areas. From now on, the monthly editorials will be different, covering some technical advice on areas that I feel you would benefit from paired with Emily's mental skills advice to provide a refreshing performance aspect for you to implement to your own game. Both myself and Emily want this to be interactive, so every month we are asking for questions from readers that are either technical, mental or performance based and we will answer the question that we feel will give the other readers the most informative answers. Additionally, the reader who has his or her question answered each month will receive a one hour free lesson with Emily and myself split 50/50 between technical and mental coaching and will be included in our next editorial at Essex Golfer.

TECHNICAL

PERFORMANCE

MENTAL

Essex Golf Club Captains CALLING ALL CAPTAINS PAST AND PRESENT Our new captain Terry Glover (Brentwood GC) has now taken over from Barry Larcombe and hopes to see old and new faces throughout 2020

UPCOMING FIXTURES: 20th March 2020 Annual Dinner at Chelmsford City Racecourse Book your tickets and your entries to the fixtures with the Hon Secretary 2020 fixture list is now available to view and book online or speak to Peter Freeman either by email, phone or text. peter.freeman@essexgolfclubcaptains.co.uk or 07957 698 557 Our website is

www.essexgolfclubcaptains.co.uk

For information regarding our packages and services please email or call using the contact details below: Paul Holland: 07961 848 370 Emily Perry: 07460 474 462 Email: elite.performancemanagement@yahoo.com - 35 -

Captain Terry Glover Brentwood GC

President, Tom Walker Romford GC

www.essexgolfclubcaptains.co.uk

JUNIORS AT COLCHESTER GOLF CLUB

C

olchester Golf Club is slowly emerging from the deluge prior to the holidays and Christmas Day’s sunshine and the subsequent dry days have allowed a little golf to be played.

Although trolleys and buggies are presently banned for the protection of the course in readiness for what the balance of the winter has in store the swindles and other groups are now creeping back onto the course.

One group who did play were the juniors, they played their last competition of 2019, the Junior End of Year Trophy, and won this year by nine handicapper Edward Mason.

With five temporary greens in play the competition was a nonqualifier otherwise Mason’s point’s score of an impressive 42 would have severely dented his handicap.

Eighteen points on his front nine did not give much of a clue as to what he was about to do on the

back. A one under gross par score allowed him to clock up 24 points on the back nine holes and seal his win.

Oli Baker (7) was not that far behind and an equal one under gross par on the back nine gave him 21 points, which along with his front nine of nineteen giving a total of 40 points.

Third placed Alanna Mathews (10) also put in a stronger back nine of 20 points which along with her first nine of sixteen saw her safely home. Cody Zhou’s (14) 35 points secured fourth.

Europe’s leading Performance Coach to 6 Major winners A fun and interactive session for players of all levels South Essex Golf Centre Thursday 19th March at 7pm Cost is £20 To book please contact Matt Stables on 07808 003 619 or email mattstables@hotmail.com - 36 -

QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS,

QUESTIONS! H

appy New Year to you all and here’s wishing you a super 2020 with some great golf about to be played. n

What will you commit to, this year, to improve your golf ? n How will you tweak or strengthen your game of golf ? n Where will you start to make changes?

Three very simple questions with varying answers. When you think about it, it’s possible that every answer could be different, and all could possibly be correct.

I’d like to talk this month about asking quality questions of yourself, whilst on the course. There’s a well known phrase along the lines of ‘The Quality Of Your Life Is Determined By The Quality Of The Questions You Ask.’ Ask great questions and get great answers!

Something that I discuss in detail on Mind Zone sessions and I’d like to share with you now.

Visualisation is a tremendous tool, however some golfers tell me they struggle with this. Asking questions of yourself will aid your visualisation techniques.

Next time you are standing on the tee, or over a second or third shot, even a putt… ask yourself the following:n n n n

possibilities, you just have to take them. Is it ‘possible’ to hit a 400 yard drive? Well certainly not me, and all the amateurs I know, and the majority of pro’s, but is it possible to hit a 200 yard shot. Yes, it’s possible. On the putting green, is it ‘possible’ that you could hole a 40 foot putt? Yes, absolutely.

Therefore, if the answer to ‘Is it possible’ is a yes, then move on to the next question. (Incidentally, if it’s a no, then you need to decide where you want to leave the ball, and then proceed with your questions).

What does a good shot look like? Well, picture the ball flying through the air, maybe with a draw or a fade, and pitching on the front of the green, rolling towards the hole. That will help you to decide ‘where’ you’d like to put the ball. Finally, if you know the flag is say, 163 yards away, and you want the ball to land at 151 yards, what club will get you there, given any wind, temperature and terrain.

Ask yourself these questions next time you play and if you could save 1, 2, or 3 shots on a round, how good could that be?

I have some Mind Zone evening sessions arranged for February and March, take a look on social media or the website for full details, or simply drop me a line.

What is possible?

What does a good shot look like here?

Where do I need to put the ball?

Which club will do the job for me?

Think about the answers you give here, and think in particular about one of my favourite words ‘possible’! The world is full of opportunities and - 37 -

Good Golfing!

Gary Boyes www.themind-zone.com

UR

26 April 2020

JUNIOR OPEN

13 May 2020

MIXED PAIRS OPEN

N

AN

S

20

Braintree Golf Club Runs in conjunction with Essex Golf Unions NGT Community Tour. £20 per person.

Luan Markham: 01376 346079 www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk

TS

20 D

E EN

FUT

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V

E

GO

CO

MPETI

O TI

Gosfield Lake Golf Club Includes coffee and bacon roll on arrival plus two course carvery after golf. £64 per couple.

Tony O'shea: 01787 474747 gosfieldlakegc@btconnect.com www.gosfield-lake-golf-club.co.uk

06 April 2020

GENTS SENIORS PAIRS OPEN Stock Brook Manor Golf Club Includes coffee and bacon roll on arrival and two course lunch after golf. £60 per pair.

Craig Laurence: 01277 653616 www.stockbrook.com

14 May 2020

LADIES TEAM OPEN Bentley Golf Club Includes tea/coffee and danish on arrival, halfway refreshments and a two course meal after the golf. £150 per team of 4.

Mark Gallop: 01277 373179 gosfieldlakegc@btconnect.com www.bentleygolfclub.com

07 April 2020

JUNIOR OPEN Stoke By Nayland Golf Club Includes goody bag, lunch and evening meal. £38 per person.

Karl Hepple: 01206 262836 www.stokebynayland.com

20 May 2020

GENTS SENIORS PAIRS OPEN Canons Brook Golf Club Includes coffee, bacon roll and two course Lunch. £70 per pair.

Neil Simpson: 01279 421482 www.canonsbrook.com

24 April 2020

CHARITY SENIORS PAIRS OPEN The Essex Golf & Country Club Includes tea/coffee on arrival and two course meal with coffee after golf. £70 per pair.

John Tuffen: 01787 224466 www.theessexgolfandcountryclub.com

24 May 2020

MIXED PAIRS OPEN Saffron Walden Golf Club Includes halfway house and two course carvery lunch with tea and coffee. £78 per couple.

Events Manager: 01799 522786 Email: office@swgc.com www.swgc.com

24 April 2020

GENTS SENIORS PAIRS OPEN Gosfield Lake Golf Club Includes coffee and bacon roll on arrival plus two course carvery after golf. £64 per pair.

Tony O'shea: 01787 474747 Email: gosfieldlakegc@btconnect.com www.gosfield-lake-golf-club.co.uk

30 May 2020

ADULT JUNIORS PAIRS OPEN 'OLD COLONIANS TROPHY' Colne Valley Golf Club £40 per pair.

Sharon Patmore: 01787 224343 www.colnevalleygolfclub.co.uk

38 --- 38

05 June 2020

17 June 2020

MIXED PAIRS OPEN

MIXED PAIR OPEN

Chigwell Golf Club Includes coffee and bacon roll on arrival plus two course dinner after the golf. £80 per couple.

Heather Olliffe: 02085 002059 www.chigwellgolfclub.co.uk

Braintree Golf Club Includes lunch and two course presentation meal. £80 per couple.

Luan Markham: 01376 346079 www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk

08 June 2020

LADIES TEAM OPEN

LADIES TEAM OPEN

Canons Brook Golf Club Includes tea, coffee and pastries on arrival then buffet meal after golf. £123 per team of 3.

Ladies Section Tresurer: 01279 421482 www.canonsbrook.com

19 June 2020

Burnham On Crouch Golf Club Includes coffee and biscuits on arrival. On course cakes and refreshments, followed by two course dinner and prizes. £105 per team of 3.

Claire Brown: 01621 787782 www.burnhamgolfclub.co.uk

02 July 2020

LADIES PAIRS OPEN Clacton-on-Sea Golf Club Coffee and Danish on arrival, on course refreshments and two course buffet. £70 per pair.

Maxine Baker: 01255 421919 mgbaker54@btinternet.com www.clactongolfclub.com

09 June 2020

LADIES TEAM OPEN Stoke By Nayland Golf Club Includes welcome coffee, pastries and Pimms on the terrace and evening meal. £152 per team of 4.

Sue Gregory: 01206 262836 sales@stokebynayland.com www.stokebynayland.com

08 July 2020

GENTS SENIORS PAIRS OPEN Benton Hall Golf Club Includes Coffee on arrival, halfway house and 2-course meal after golf. £70 per pair.

Luan Markham: 01376 346079 www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk

10 June 2020

GENTS SENIORS PAIRS OPEN Colne Valley Golf Club Includes Coffee and savouries on arrival, then carvery meal after golf. £70 per pair Sharon Patmore: 01787 224343 www.colnevalleygolfclub.co.uk

08 July 2020

LADIES TEAM OPEN Colne Valley Golf Club Delicious refreshments throughout the day. £150 per team of 4.

Alan Cook: 07960 428198 alancook45@gmail.com www.bentonhall.co.uk

11 June 2020

GENTS SENIORS PAIRS OPEN Colchester Golf Club Tea and coffee on provided. Bacon rolls/breakfast available to purchase. Two course meal after the golf. £78 per pair.

David Blackmore: 01206 853396 Email: drblackmore@sky.com www.colchestergolfclub.com

08 July 2020

MENS PAIRS OPEN Five Lakes Golf Club Coffee and bacon roll on arrival plus two course rolling carvery after 18 holes Clive Weir: 07966 403322 Email: clivew@g2m.co.uk www.fivelakesgolfclub.co.uk

12 June 2020

GENTS INDIVIDUAL SCRATCH OPEN (THREADGILL TROPHY)

Orsett Golf Club Includes light lunch and sandwiches/chips after the golf. £TBA. Richard Herring: 01375 891352 www.orsettgolfclub.co.uk Attention! Club Secretaries and Competition Organisers: Please forward any info on Future Open Competitions, Golf related Events or Charity days at Essex Golf Clubs to info@essexgolfer.com.

Visit our live up to date events page at www.essexgolfer.com 39 --- 39

COLCHESTER GOLF CLUB CHRISTMAS SWINDLE

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lan Beasley rattled home 41 points from his fourteen handicap to take first prize in Colchester Golf Club’s Annual Swindlers Christmas Competition.

The competition now in its fourteenth year is played for by the regular attendees of the Monday and Friday swindles and this year fifty-one members took part in the competition. Lunch followed, the day being well organized by Tim Rogers.

Beasley was not messing around on a course with no run on the wet fairways. His first nine holes sealed his win with a score of 23 points. A birdie on the third was the highlight and his handicap sawto the rest with steady golf. One difficulty for all the members was that after the heavy rains the main

Joe Clarke along with Tim Rogers Celebrating his divisional win.

greens were out of action and all the flags were on the temporary greens.

Other prizes were divisional, with no player winning more than one of the coveted prizes. In the under nine handicap division the prize went to John Redden Overall Winner Alan Beasley with Tim Rogers.

(8) who scored 40 points with nine handicapper Jim Wilkinson taking second with 38. In this section Adrian Girling (9) returned the best score on the par threes to claim that award.

In the 10-16 handicappers Andy Totham (15) carried the prize returning 39 points, Dick Bokenham taking second spot with 37 points. Best score on the par threes with nine points was Mike Carroll (13).

Finally the on form Joe Clarke (17) swept away the prize in the seventeen plus handicap division with a solid 36 points. Twenty-one handicapper John Bloomfield also clocked up 36 points but lost out after the countback. Chris Scott (20) with eight points took the par three prize.

VE DAY GOLF CELEBRATIONS

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ay 2020, sees the 75th anniversary of VE Day (and VJ Day in August) and the Royal British Legion is helping Golf Clubs throughout the country to celebrate in style, with a golf competition for their Members followed by a special lunch or dinner - with many already deciding to follow the “street-party” theme, with period music, dress and dancing.

Every golfer taking part will receive a commemorative ball-marker from RBL, with the winners receiving a prestigious gold medal.

Players are asked to make a donation, via their Club, to RBL and the period around the anniversary - May 8th, a bank holiday in the UK - will see hundreds of Clubs taking part.

Over the last few years golfers have donated

the magnificent total of £1 million to the vital work of the Royal British Legion.

Those who are not yet entered are invited to do so by contacting the Royal British Legion, either via the website – poppy golf.org.uk – or direct to the organiser at – peter.poppygolf@gmail.com

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PAULA AND LUCY WIN THE YONEX 2020 SPANISH MASTERS

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he Playgolf pairing of Paula Smith and Lucy Sadler travelled to The El Rompido Resort in Spain to compete in the Yonex 2020 Spanish Masters, a three day event which forms part of the Yonex Lady Pairs Golf Tour. Day 1 saw them finish at the top of the leader board with 35 Stableford points to their credit, just one point ahead of their nearest rivals, Morgan Petersen and Candice Le Faucheur from the Romsey Golf Club, Southampton. Round 2 and the lagging pair rallied to take the day with a score of 39 points, five points ahead of Smith and Sadler who only managed to record 34. A very different story emerged on day 3. The Playgolf pair dug their heels in and managed to score a fantastic 42 points against their opponents 38. A final total of 111 points for both sides. The 9 hole count back checked, and the victorious Paula and Lucy were declared the

Yonex Lady Pairs Golf Tour Champions 2020 – Paula Smith (L) and Lucy Sadler (R).

Yonex 2020 Spanish Masters Champions.

Five similar events are being staged throughout the UK over the next few weeks. The top three pairs from each of these events will automatically win a place at the Tour Championship in September when the overall winners will be crowned Yonex Lady Pairs Golf Tour Champions 2020.

GREAT START TO 2020 FOR ESSEX SENIORS

FORRESTER PARK JUNIORS WINTER COMPETITIONS

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a lovely dry, warm mid winters day at Essex Golf and Country Club the Seniors competed in the 3rd round of their Winter League, a great way to start 2020. In 3rd place with 37 points and on count back was John Manser. In 2nd place, also with 37 points was Roger Springett. The winner with the great score of 38 Stableford points was 31 handicapper (now 30) Richard Watson. NTP on the par 3 135 yrd 5th hole was won by Jim Duignan.

NTP on the par 3 150 yrd 11th hole was won by Terry Wooton.

Winners being presented with their prizes by the Seniors Captain Jeff Robinson.

Reg Brunt, Junior Organiser, presenting the Christmas Cup to Olly Morrell who won with 38 Stableford points.

Reg Brunt Presenting the first winners of the new Parent/Junior Cup to Paul and Ashton Springall. 11 pairs enjoyed this occasion which had been suggested by one of the parents. It was agreed that the competition should be held annually but earlier in the year when the weather is kinder!

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Matt Stables is a PGA Advanced Professional. Our Aim is to improve your scores by 4 shots over the next 12 months by giving you some simple proven techniques on all parts of your game to make a real difference to your game.

We will make a plan suited to you to and your current ability to improve your game and increase your confidence and fun you have on the course. www.MattStablesGolf.com Telephone: 07808 003 619

CHECK THE BASICS TO GET YOUR YEAR OFF TO A GOOD START!

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hope you are all excited about the new year of golfing ahead. It's a new start and a good time to look forward to and reset. If you can make a good start to the year it can only start to build. A great story about what the great Jack Nicklaus used to do was every January after a break over the winter he would go back to his coach and ask him to treat him like a beginner and review all his basics. Even with the advance in coaching the set-up still can have a dramatic impact on your swing and your shots.

So try these ideas to get your year off to a good start.

Check your Grip, Aim and Posture – It

may sound something that you have heard a lot but even though you may know what you need to do it the feel and the real may be completely

different. You may need another set of eyes to give you some feedback.

Work on your alignment on the course –

There is often a difference in how well you aim on the range versus how you aim on the course. On the range, the matt may aid you in lining up but on the course often the tees and lie of the land don't align you in the way you want to go. So use an alignment stick or get some feedback on your alignment on the course.

GOLF CONSULTATION Have you got some aims for your game this year? If you would like to improve your game on the course, and would like to make some progress book a Get to know you session. We can discuss your game and make a plan to get the most from your game this year. Cost is £30 for 60 minute consultation . Please get in contact with Matt on 07808 003 619 to book your consultation or online via www.southessex.glflocker.com/

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Essex County News Email: office@essexgolfunion.org

www.essexgolfunion.org

REFEREES PANEL

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o to the Essex Golf Union web pages (www.essexgolfunion.org) and you will see listed the union’s key activities. Underpinning these objectives is the less than simple task of ensuring players at all levels understand the rules of the game they are playing and how they are correctly implemented.

2019 saw the Rules of Golf being one of the main topics of conversation in clubhouses throughout the country with the changes made being the most significant for a generation. These were introduced by the ruling bodies to modernise the game and to make the rules themselves more understandable to the average golfer. For golf unions globally this meant a busy year requiring familiarisation with the new rules, taking of new examinations and re-educating the playing community.

As we enter the 2020 season Essex Golf Union is fortunate enough to have a team of over 20 volunteer referees to call upon. Qualified at different levels under the R&A education structure some of these officials also work for other golfing bodies around the country. For golfers at every level knowledge of the rules is not necessarily a strong point and the role of officials is to not just assist players with rulings at events, but also that those events are completed with an acceptable Pace of Play, a topic which constantly appears in golfing news columns.

Although referees will be seen at most county run events and matches, the actual preparation for a championship will start some months before. The Lead Referee with colleagues will be involved in pre event visits to the course in order to meet with the management and green keeper. This will enable any new markings or changes to be made to the course set up as well as looking at any County Rules Officials preparing for the new season. additional local rules which may be needed. Indeed this simple act has acted as the catalyst for permanent course and local rule improvements at a number of clubs.

The Rules Panel led by Steve Bonnington who has been part of the county’s team since 2010 says “Our team has a great mix of experience and knowledge. All the officials are involved because they want to put something back into the game and they get enjoyment from this. The duties at major events can be long ones, say 6.30am till 7pm, but they understand this and their enthusiasm for the role plays a vital part in the smooth running of the event.”

Steve also stresses how important team working is to effectively referee an event. Although referees may be assigned to their own part of the course to manage communications with other officials is vital both in terms of knowing what is happening elsewhere, where the problems are and sometimes for support when dealing with a ruling. To enhance this capability and ensure tournaments were run more effectively the county invested in its own radio communications equipment a few years ago.

Away from the golf course referees review on a regular basis what can be done to improve the way they work and other issues around the rules. This may be at the end of the event when the day’s rules issues are debriefed or at a more formal end and pre-season meetings. The team also play a vital part in dealing with rules education and team members are currently preparing the presentation to be used at club Rules evenings later this spring. There will be a limited number of these available so if your club is interested please contact the County Office ASAP - 01376 500998 or office@essexgolfunion.org.

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Essex County News Email: office@essexgolfunion.org

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www.essexgolfunion.org

Essex County News Email: office@essexgolfunion.org

www.essexgolfunion.org

ARRON STARS FOR ENGLAND IN RAINY SPAIN

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p and coming Essex and Chelmsford golfer Arron Edwards Hill could not have had a better start to 2020 and his international season with England. Competing in the annual January European eight team Championship at the Costa Ballena Ocean Golf Club near Cadiz Spain young Arron emerged as the leading English points scorer in what turned out to be a rain soaked competition. The final, contested against a strong Ireland outfit, reached a The winning England Team. sparking conclusion, albeit in fading light, with Arron winning his afternoon singles match to secure a 5-4 win for England.

Arron raising the trophy.

LEVERMORE SETS SIGHTS ON PORTUGUESE HAT-TRICK

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ason Levermore (Little Channels Golf Centre) is aiming for a three-peat when he returns to Portugal for the East Region’s traditional curtain-raiser – the Overseas Pro-Am. The Essex ace first won the tournament in Lisbon where it was staged two years ago. In 2019 he was once again successful, this time in Vilamoura.

And he is looking forward to starting the 2020 season with a return visit to the Algarve for this year’s tournament, which takes place from March 27-29.

Levermore said: “It’s so close-knit and friendly – everyone that goes gets on great. It’s competitive golf but in a nice relaxed environment. We have a lot of banter

on the golf course. The other pros that go are all good fun.

“It’s a nice week to start the year off and get everyone going – out in the sunshine, a bit of warm weather. And it’s a lovely resort – nice courses.”

For Levermore the away-break will give him a chance to really get back in the swing after a twomonth injury-enforced break. An MRI scan late in 2019 revealed a stress fracture in his left foot and subsequently he had six weeks on crutches, while wearing a medical moon boot for even longer.

Levermore said: “Touch wood, it should all be alright. All the swelling has gone down and it’s not painful. Hopefully, I’ll hit a few shots at the beginning of February and it should be fine.”

The six-time regional Order of Merit winner (including in 2019) will be joined at the seventh renewal of the Overseas Pro-Am by 11 other PGA professionals and their respective teams.

The East’s regional manager Gordon Campbell said: “It didn’t take long for this year’s pro-am to be fully subscribed, which was great. It’s also pleasing that we have a strong field. We’re looking forward to our stay in Vilamoura and I’m sure all the professionals and amateurs are too.”

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Sarah Bennett Golf PGA Fellow Professional Sarah Bennett PGA Fellow Professional & Head Teaching Professional at Three Rivers Golf & Country Club.

Sarah is the current England U18 Boys & Girls East Regional Coach and Essex Girls Head Coach. Her 25 years as a Ladies European Tour Professional and Mind Factor Certification ensures she has an unrivalled skill set to coach course management and critical mind skills to aid scoring with no technical changes.

Sarah’s Plane Truth & TPI Level 1 and Level 2 Certification is highly sought after by both new and elite golfers including those Juniors new to the sport.

Individual and group lessons available with Sarah: 07719 617 349 W: sarahbennettgolf.co.uk E: sarahbennettgolf@gmail.com Why not sign up for my blog and newsletter? sarahbennettgolf.co.uk

Follow me on Facebook: SarahBennettGolf Twitter: @sbennettgolf

Sarah coaches at both Three Rivers Golf & Country Club & Stockbrook Manor Golf Club.

COACHING MYTHS

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t is interesting how Golf coaching has evolved over the years in terms of technological advancements including diagnosis and the actual presence of evidence.

The one area which will never change is the way we move as human beings which is sometimes a forgotten area.

This facet along with many phrases will always circulate in general conversations on the course, in the clubhouse and around the dinner table.

I wanted to address just one of those “myths” today but I will write a series here for Essex Golfer worded towards a right handed golfer.

“Keep your left heel down”

As PGA Professional Golf Coaches know every golfer will possess their own individual characteristics based around physical limitations, body shapes, flexibility, strength and swing style.

This information forms the basis of every diagnosis

and correction during a lesson.

The large lower body rotation in the backswing is paramount for a swing which typically possess a higher arm position at the top of the backswing as shown in the image to the right.

Keeping the foot flat on the ground in the backswing limits this movement which can cause undue stress on the knee and lumbar areas.

From a golf perspective keeping your heel planted can make the transitional move from the top of the swing to the start of the downswing much harder to achieve in particular with your driver.

I believe to achieve maximum efficiency with your tee shots requires a tension free swing combined with ideal body sequencing to “square” the clubface at impact. One of my sayings I use with my clients is” Just allow the ball to get in the way of your swing.

I am looking to coach a free minimal technical unhibited movement producing power and consistency allowing my clients to enjoy this game for years to come.

So in conclusion as the great John Jacobs said the golf swing comprises of “ Two turns and a swish” so next time you play concentrate on swinging the club freely.

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Sarah

Sarah Bennett

Mizuno Unveils ST200 Woods

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izuno has announced the launch of its new ST200 Series of metal woods which go on sale next month.

The ST200 series of drivers and fairway woods has been created through a collaboration between Mizuno’s Japanese and US R&D teams – the first in the brand’s history of wood design – to capitalise on the momentum achieved through the ST190 Series.

The ST200 Series offers a choice of three different head designs in the driver, each with a Beta rich Titanium face and each offering a different ball flight.

ST200 woods will be available at retail from February. www.golf.mizunoeurope.com

Titleist Rolls Out New Tour Soft and Velocity Golf Balls

PLAYGOLF LADIES

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TITLEIST TOUR SOFT First launched in 2018, the updated Titleist Tour Soft features new material and process technologies to deliver the best performance in its category – offering a superior combination of soft compression feel, very fast speed for commanding distance and excellent short game spin and control.

TITLEIST VELOCITY Every component of the new Velocity ball has been engineered for maximum velocity, including new aerodynamic and core technologies that deliver the longest, best performing Velocity yet.

Key enhancements to previous models include the introduction of a spherically-tiled 350 octahedral dimple design, which produces a more consistent, high-flying trajectory for longer distance; the use of a larger, higher speed core, which generates fast initial velocity with extremely low spin on all full swing shots; an increased core size adds spin for greater stoppability on approach shots; while a new fast NaZ+ cover formulation is designed for speed and playable greenside feel. www.titleist.co.uk - 47 -

ood weather attracted a large field of ladies to compete in the first Playgolf Ladies’ Monthly Medal competition of 2020.

Division one needed countback to separate the winner Paula Smith and runner-up Sally Pettitt, each carding nett 80.

2019 Captain, Lucy Sadler, was one shot off the pace in third. New ladies member Nikki Brown took Division Two by storm carding nett 77, to win with a wide margin ahead of her nearest rival Liz Schultz. Pauline Coxon was two shots adrift in third, recording nett 85.

The Playgolf pairing of Lucy Sadler and Paula Smith took on Scott Boyle and Rob Trotman from The Frinton Golf Club in the second round of the Winter Mizumo Match Play Golf Pairs Tour. Sadler and Smith won the match 4&3 to progress to the third round.

CAPTAINS DRIVE IN AT GARON PARK

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antastic support and fine weather greeted Garon Park Golf Club as they hosted their 2020 Captain’s Drive In, making it enjoyable for all those that attended. Congratulations goes to all the Captain’s on three very successful days.

The first Drive In was the Men’s captain Bryan Bone who had a fantastic turn out of over 106 people 82 of which went out to play. Bryan hit a fabulous drive of 178 yards off 1st which was followed by Stableford competition. Winners were Carol Crowhurst with a score of 37 points and David Anslow with 42 points.

Second was the new lady captain Stephanie Lawrence who said “It felt like The Ryder Cup standing there on the first tee. Fortunately, none of us suffered first tee nerves, at least outwardly, and all our balls went straight down the middle!”

Another straight drive to mark the start of Stephanie’s year. This was followed by a fun Texas

Bryan Bone.

Scramble over 9 holes. The winning team on West was Paul Hart, Terry Robertson, Gill Goodale and Diane Mallion. Winners on East were Des and Cecelia Tallon, Debbie Postlethwaite and Marilyn Pond. Nearest the pins were won by Ann Murray and Micky Pearson.

The last for the week was Senior Captain David Coakley where he saw 72 members go out and play in almost balmy conditions competing in a 3 out of 4 Multiplier competition. There were a few teams who came in with some good scores but the winning team who took it with a combined total of 183 was Dougie Freedman, David Mills, Andy Todd and Ian Stobart. Andy Todd also won nearest the pin on West 5 with David himself taking the other on East 8.

All three captain’s had a very memorable day, raising hundreds of pounds for their chosen charity The Southend Blind Welfare Organisation.

Stephanie Lawrence.

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David Coakley.

BEN DAVID SETS HIS SIGHTS ON THE ASIAN TOUR B

en, 25, who turned professional four years ago, topped his year playing on the Middle East and North African (MENA) Golf Tour with a sixth-place finish in the Order-of-Merit. This puts Ben, a member of Colchester Golf Club, straight into the final stages of the Qualifying School for the prestigious Asian Tour in late February.

Ben was a central member of Colchester’s junior section for a number of years and in 2010 won the qualifying competition in his age group for the Faldo Series at Walton Heath Golf Club. He came third in the worldwide finals at Lough Erin, Northern Ireland – one of many highlights in a quite brilliant junior career.

Throughout his formative years Ben, who was a pupil at Philip Morant School, won many competitions at the Braiswick club and represented both club and county before deciding to try his hand as a professional on the MENA Tour.

Last year was his most successful yet with five top-10 places, including three top-fives. His best performance was at the Al Zorah Open UAE where, after three rounds of three–under-par, he narrowly lost out in a three-way play-off.

Ben birdied the first hole along with Australian Dan Gaunt, dropping the eventual Order-of-Merit winner South African MG Keyser, only to lose out to another Gaunt birdie on the second extra hole.

The opportunity to play at the Asian Tour QSchool cranks the door open for his future. But life on the bottom rungs of the golfing ladder is no cakewalk and is costly – with players having to pay to enter every competition. The entry fee for the Al Zorah Open alone was more than £300 and the QSchool itself will cost Ben over £1,500 with air fares on top of that. Self-funding is getting more difficult and the need for sponsorship evermore a reality.

As with all top quality sportsmen, Ben is confident in his own ability and welcomes the forthcoming Q-School challenge at the Lake View Resort & Golf Club in Thailand.

His sights are firmly set on a top-35 finish to earn full playing rights on the Asian Tour. Before that it’s the Aya Golf Club in Jordan, then the New Giza Open in Cairo and finally to Thailand.

In the meantime it’s practice, practice, practice. Throughout all the hard work Ben has still found time to help out the new youngsters at Colchester – always making himself accessible to help out with tips, and advice.

This great role model for the club carries the good wishes of everyone at Colchester Golf Club for a well-deserved, sizzling 2020.

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BRAINTREE CHARITY PRESENTATION

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mmediate Past Lady Captain Liz Karn raised over £10,000 for charity during her year in office at Braintree Golf Club.

Liz presented a cheque for £10,093 to Graham Miller, Ambassador for St Helena Hospice, at the club last week.

It represents all her amazing work carried out in various ways at the club over the past year.

“I want to thank everyone at the club for their support over the past year,” says Liz. “Without them I couldn’t have raised so much.

“My aim was for the money to go towards something specific for the hospice. I didn’t want it to go into a pot for anything so it’s going towards a cooker and a bed.”

THREE RIVERS CHARITY NEWS

Liz Karn with Graham Miller.

ROMFORD RAISES RECORD CHARITY AMOUNT IN THEIR SPECIAL 125TH YEAR

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Sharon (on the right) making the presentation.

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hree Rivers Golf Club Captains’ Charity this year was the Dream Factory. Its a local charity which was founded in 2008 to brighten the lives and encourage hope for children and young adults from the age of 3-25, who have either life limiting or life threatening conditions. The aim is to grant a young person’s dream be it meeting their favorite celebrity or sporting hero to taking a magical trip.

After a number of fundraising initiatives Three Rivers were very pleased to have raised £5103.73 to support the charity and a presentation took place at the Club on Thursday 5th December when one of the Charity's fundraising team was presented with a cheque

by Sharon Warrington the Lady Captain for 2018/2019.

omford Golf Club’s Captain John Fitch pictured with representatives from the two charities was overwhelmed by the generosity of its members in the clubs special 125th year raising the record sum of £22,700. Captain John Split the sum between two very worthy charities Breast Cancer Now and Corbett’s Tey Special Needs School each receiving £11,350.

John said on presenting the cheques “I chose these charities as they are both in my thoughts, Breast Cancer has affected my family this year and having visited Corbett’s Tey local school many times, I know what a fantastic job the staff do there.

I know this money will make a difference to better people’s lives. I cannot thank the members enough.”

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WALDEN CHARITY TROPHY PRESENTATION

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t has been a landmark year for Saffron Walden Golf Club, celebrating 100 years since it was founded. And its charity fund-raising arm, the Walden Charity Trophy, has been in celebration mood too, reaching a milestone £500,000 collected since its inception in 1973.

Now the committee has handed over its donations for 2019. They amounted to an impressive £24,500, with £16,000 of it going to the charity, REAL, chosen this year by captains Tony Brown and Dee Roberts, along with the senior section. This is the Ethan Rees Linwood Memorial Fund, in memory of schoolboy Ethan Linwood, who died aged 11 following a car accident near his home on the outskirts of Thaxted in 2012. Its aim is to offer help and support to children and young people in need between the ages of eight and 16. In addition, this year 11 different charities and organisations received funding. All the money is given to provide essential equipment or specific services, which means none of it gets lost in administration costs.

This included £2,000 to the Junior Scholarship Fund, set up four years ago to give something back to the club. £1,000 went to each of the following: Citizens’ Advice, Riding for Disabled, Saffron

Walden Choral Society, the Uttlesford Food Bank, IPSEA and The Sick Children’s Trust, with £500 each to Support4Sight, Side by Side Club and Go with OUR Flow. The last two are under the umbrella of mental health charity Mencap Saffron Walden.

This charity tally was raised through the year by the seniors’, ladies’ and men’s sections, with the annual Pro Am making a big contribution.

Andrew Fisher, current chairman of the charity committee, said: “We are a small group of people who So proud: Captains Tony Brown and give their Dee Roberts, along with charity time freely, committee chairman Andrew Fisher helped by the (right) present Ethan Linwood’s father, Bob, with the cheque for £24,500. generous support of the club itself, its members and especially local businesses. I’d like to give my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved.”

BENTLEY GOLF CLUB RAISE OVER £2,000

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entley Golf Club ran a variety of fundraising events – raising more than £2,000 for the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) life saving research.

Throughout the 2019 season Bentley Golf Club raised funds for the British Heart Foundation. A variety of events took place throughout the year including Captain’s day, Men’s Invitation day and a Christmas hamper raffle.

Graham Steed, Men’s Captain at Bentley Gold Club, said: “A big thank you to all of those who supported me with the fundraising efforts over the past year and to all those who gave donations.

The British Heart Foundation touch so many people’s lives in and around our region. Being able to give something back and support

them in their continuing work is something we are very proud of.”

Sophie Tibbitts, BHF Fundraising Manager, said: “Without our passionate and dedicated supporters, including clubs and associations, we wouldn’t be able to fund life saving research that will end the devastation caused by heart and circulatory disease once and for all.

“Heart and circulatory diseases affect around 660,000 people living in the East of England alone, with around 15,500 people losing their lives to these conditions in the region each year.

“That’s why it’s vital we partner with the likes of Bentley Golf Club to raise more money to help our researchers find better ways to prevent, treat and cure these conditions to beat heartbreak forever.”

The BHF invests £100 million into research each year to tackle heart and circulatory conditions, including heart diseases, stroke and vascular dementia, along with risk factors including diabetes.

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The Jubilee Cup Update from Jubilee Cup Committee, sponsored by Seabrook Warehousing, and reported by Chairman Phil Redhead

Happy New Year from the 2020 Jubilee Cup Committee W

ell Happy New Year Jubilee Cuppers! The full draw for the 2020 competition has been known for a few months, and I’ve been hearing feedback from Captains and Organisers seeking to arrange their four League matches for this season – all to be played within the “PLAY BY” dates on the schedule, for each of the four Rounds.

New Year, and also a new Rule! As a temporary measure Rule 1.1.1 has been added to test our for future usage. As you know, players in some other Essex comps had been made ineligible to play within the Jubilee Cup for subsequent matches.

This was in the spirit of when the Jubilee Cup was created: as a specific and dedicated comp for mid-handicappers to The 2019 Winning Captain Richard Bland (left) from Stoke by Nayland fill a gap for our type of golfers. As the GC, and Competition Chairman Phil Redhead at the 2019 Final Presentation evening at our Final host venue Canons Brook GC. competition has progressed, and with wider support from Essex in some mid-handicap comps, we have heard feedback from some smaller club memberships struggling to compete, and having the opposite effect. As a result, the following temporary rule for 2020 is in place and incorporated within the Rules on the website As a temporary 2020 rule, the Committee will allow clubs to field a maximum of TWO players each, in both League and Knockout phases, who have played in the Leslie Wood (including Plate) competition in the current calendar year. The Committee will ask Captains to note such players on result sheet.

Please do let us know how you get on with this Ruling – has it had any impact?

Don’t know who in your club is organising, then check out the full list of clubs entered and their club contacts on our website at the URL below - find it off our Homepage, at the top under “Competing Clubs”: www.jubileecup.com/Jubilee_Cup_Entrants_2020.pdf if you want to be considered for you teams, or even look to help them out, please do feel free to make contact - they may be organising trials, Whatsapp groups etc. etc., so get involved.

Your club organiser has been provided with all these contact details, the individual matches and opponents they will be playing, and should not be making contact with opponent Captain-Organisers to get matches in the club diary. As always, the League phase certainly have PLAY BY dates to compete by, - 52 -

and as I said at the AGM I don’t have any issues if clubs wants to play in Jan or Feb 2020 if it helps get the match complete!

Following close on the heels of the 2019 final at Canons Brook, Colchester Golf Club hosted the Committee and club organisers for our Annual General Meeting, and the all-important 2020 draw.

Our 46 clubs are organised into eight Leagues, and will all play at least 4 matches to accumulate points, with the top two teams in each League going on to our Knock Out phases (home advantage is granted to the winners of the League in the next round of Sixteen teams).

The Jubilee Cup is for Mid-Handicap golfers with playing handicaps 12 and above (maximum playing handicap of 24). Each game is organised into 6 individual matches, and three 4-ball better ball matches playing off 90% handicap, so plenty for all members of your clubs mid-handicap section.

Please see how all the matches will play in our initial League phase in Divisions A through H, and more detail can be seen in our website at www.jubileecup.com/matches2020/ draw2020.html As matches are played by the “play by” dates, games and scores will be fully updated on our website.

In addition, all players who take part in a competition match will accumulate their own personal points as part of the Jubilee Cup Order of Merit, and will have the opportunity to win trophy as end of the season Singles or Pairs champion and runner up. So all to play for!

On a personal note, and on behalf of the Jubilee Cup Committee (Christer Stenbacka our Web Guru, Treasurer Alan Tindall, Neil Mitchell the Competition Secretary, and myself ), we wish you all the best for the New Year, good luck in your planning of League matches, and here’s to a great new season when Essex Golfer returns in 2020 and we will share further detail on the plans for Round 1, being played BY 5th April 2020.

The Jubilee Committee are always looking for volunteers to help us out – please contact myself or one of the Committee at the Contact details on our Homepage (top-right). www.jubileecup.com All the best

Phil

Please do LIKE /FOLLOW or subscribe to our Facebook and Twitter sites: www.facebook.com/thejubileecup/

@jubilee_cup

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Its FREE to advertise anything in Golf Mart, Visit our live up to date golf mart page and enter your items.

www.essexgolfer.com FOR SALE: Titleist 904F 19º and 15º, 905T 10.5º, 65i irons 4-9 plus pitchng wedge Basildon - £50.00. Tel: 07793 197 478 Email: paulwilliams777@hotmail.com

FOR SALE: Winter Wheels to fit PowerKaddy Golf trolley. Very good condition £35.00. Tel: 07850 386 036 Email: tonyriebold@icloud.com

FOR SALE: Yonex NSI00-1 Irons 3-9 plus pitching wedge and sand wedge. Basildon - £50.00. Tel: 07793 197 478 Email: paulwilliams777@hotmail.com

FOR SALE: Suitable for spare parts all in good working order Motocaddy trolley with broken handle also two batteries. Tiptree - £20.00. Tel: 07565 528 499 Email: maureen.williams10@btinternet.com

FOR SALE: TaylorMade carry bag with built in stand. Brand New - unwrapped. Billericay - £40.00. Tel: 01268 548 466 Email: m_jones18@sky.com

FOR SALE: Suitable for spare parts all in good working order Motocaddy trolley, with two batteries. - Tiptree - £20.00.

Tel: 07565 528 499 Email: maureen.williams10@btinternet.com

FOR SALE: Brand new Powakaddy lite cart bag - Wix near Harwich - £50.00.

Tel: 07902 859 323 Email: ohara681@btinternet.com FOR SALE: Sun Mountain Sunday Golf Pencil Bag. Lightweight with mini stand.

Black/ White. Never Used. - Brightlingsea £80.00. Tel: 07547 346 529 Email: rlg.rlg@icloud.com FOR SALE: 2 made to measure Slanj Scotland tartan golf trews (McKenzie and stewart) w34 L28 unused gift - SS3 8AL Southend - £60.00.

Tel: 01702 587 480 Email: george_crichton@sky.com FOR SALE: Pre-owned, in excellent condition-All right handed-regular flex-All £20 each including head cover.Adams super S 10.5 degree driver.Taylor made steel 200 3 wood.Tommy Armour 845S 3 wood.Benross 16 degree utility club Mercedes Benz Logo’d. - Coggeshall area - £20.00. Tel: 01376 564305 Email: liza.hannan@btinternet.com

FOR SALE: TaylorMade M2D right handed Driver with head cover very good condition. 1 inch shorter shaft ideal for slicer. - Canvey Island - £60.00.

Tel: 07768 608 505 Email: terrymaskell39@gmail.com FOR SALE: Footjoy DRYJOYS HydroLite size 'M' - Hatfield Peverel - £20.00.

Tel: 07910 389 965 Email: ed.mclatchie@gmail.com FOR SALE: Garmin G8 gps, 30, + pre loaded courses and free updates. V good condition perfect screen - Basildon £190.00. Tel: 07775 665 160 Email: meanderin47@blueyonder.co.uk FOR SALE: Bushnell Z6 Jolt Laser rangefinder, as new .5 yard accuracy metal body - Basildon - £190.00.

Tel: 07775 665 160 Email: meanderin47@blueyonder.co.uk FOR SALE: DST Compressor training club.

Curved shaft to train correct impact position good condition - Basildon £60.00. Tel: 07775 665 160 Email: meanderin47@blueyonder.co.uk

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SWING THROUGH SPRING With these stunning Golf packages

THE BIRDIE:

Coffee and Full Breakfast. 18 Holes.

Pint of Lager or Bitter

£20.00 JUBILEE £30.00 KINGS*

THE EAGLE:

Coffee and Bacon Rolls. 18 Holes.

Ham, Egg and Chips with a Pint

£22.50 JUBILEE £32.50 KINGS*

THE ALBATROSS:

Coffee and Bacon Rolls. Unlimited Golf.

1 Course Chef’s Special with a Pint

£30.00 JUBILEE £40.00 KINGS*

CALL US NOW: 01621 826959 Stow Road, Cold Norton, Purleigh Essex CM3 6RR

Minimum of 4 players, £5.00 supplement for weekends and bank holidays 1st March – 31st May 2020.

Organiser goes free with groups of 12 or more. T&C’s apply.

follow us for events and offers

www.threeriversclub.com

SPRING Spectacular Stock Brook Manor

18 HOLES OF GOLF Chef’s Dish of the Day

£32 £37 *

PER PERSON MONDAY TO THURSDAY

*

PER PERSON FRIDAY

For booking and information call 01277 650400 www.stockbrook.com

Queens Park Avenue Stock, Nr Billericay Essex CM12 0SP *Minimum 4 players.

Available Monday to Friday.

Valid to 30th April 2020.

Terms and conditions apply.

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