April 2016

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Brentwood Golf Club

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

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‘Come and play the course everyone is talking about’

REEil N FEES SUMMEFrRomG 1st Apr

SUMM

0 riday £22.5 Monday to F unday £30 Saturday & S

Senior SPECIAL Wednesday

ER

Availab

le from 4pm Monda y to F r i day £1 Saturd 0 ay & S unday Twilig £ ht Bug 15 g y Hir e £12

(Available after 11am)

£20

Including a Bacon Roll with Tea or Coffee

Buggy Rental only

£15

LadiesSpecial Membership (Over 60’s)

ership £715 5 Day Memb d of May Join by the en Credit on And get £100 bership Card Bar/Food mem

Dawn Early Bird (Sat & Sun only from 5.30am to 7am) 2 Players with a Buggy

£60 BUGGY HIRE

£22 for 18 Ho les

Our Buggies

have Ball & C lub Cleaners + Rain Canop y

P L E A S E N O T E : A L L T E E T I M E S M U S T B E B O O k E D I N A D vA N C E

Coxtie Green Road, South Weald, Brentwood, Essex CM14 5RJ

01277 375 101

Email: russell@brentwoodgolfclub.co.uk -3-

Web: www.brentwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Brentwood Golf Club “The Course Everyone is Talking About”

I

t has been 2 ½ years since Mike Seabrook purchased what was then known as Weald Park Golf Club, he has transformed what was a run down and neglected Course and Clubhouse, over half a million pounds has been invested into the Club in his time as the owner.

running the entire length of the course, this will enable the use of Buggies all year round.

There has been a massive investment in the drainage of the course and this continues.

We must thank Kevin Warren who has helped us transform the course.

Membership figures have grown from zero members to approaching 350 in the 2 ½ years.

The Club prides itself on the great friendly atmosphere and a great team headed up by General Manager Russell Phillips, Food and Beverage Manager Sue Phillips, Head Golf Professional Michael Jones and Head Green Keeper Keith Estell.

The course was recently lengthened to 6,571 yards (White Tees) and has be given a SSS of 72.

All of the Bunkers on the course have been dug-out and reconstructed with tour grade fine white sand.

New features have been added to 8 of the Holes including Water Hazards, ditches and Bunkers.

The Course now features a Buggy Path

We will once again be launching our popular Dawn Early Bird, this is available every Saturday and Sunday from 5.30am to 7am 2 Golfers with a Buggy for Just £60 from Saturday April 2nd as well as our great value ‘Twilight Zone’ available every day from 4pm during the summer months 2 Golfers with a Buggy just £30.

The Club has become a firm favourite with Golf Societies, dates are selling out fast, for Society information contact Russell Phillips: russell@brentwoodgolfclub.co.uk Membership details, Green Fee Rate and Society Packages are available on our website: www.brentwoodgolfclub.co.uk

Finally we are very proud to be hosting this year’s MULLIS TROPHY on Sunday 2nd October 2016.

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7c Perry Road, Witham, Essex CM8 3UD Telephone: 01621 815 577 Mobile: 07967 651613 Email: info@essexgolfer.com

www.essexgolfer.com @EssexGolfer1 EDITOR Tony Hawkins

FR EE

Ap r il

S P RING SPECIAL

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Breakfast and 18 Holes of Golf (BEFORE 11.00am)

18 Holes of Golf OR and Ham, Egg and Chips (AFTER 11.00am)

£25

Monday to Friday Please call 01245 441 056

Brentwood Golf Club

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

TO RESERVE YOUR TEE TIME (M A XI M UM N U MB ER O F P E OP L E 8)

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

Channels, Pratts Farm Lane East Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT

www.channelsestate.co.uk Email: info@channelsestate.co.uk -5-

COLCHESTER

I

thought I would start off reminding you all of why we are different to our competitors. Having been here for 22 years it is very rare to have a team of staff stay with you for long periods of time. In our case every member of staff has been with us for a minimum of 15 years!

So when we talk about about giving the best service, totally unbiased service, service which is designed to retain your custom for many years, service which will lead to recommending us to your friends, this is what we are all about.

Having recently added to this an accurate club selector (Skytrak) in our driving bay we can give you fact to go along with that service. What we’ve seen and encouraged customers to do is bring their current woods or irons along and then we spend time in the bay seeing if there is anything out there that can improve your performance in terms of length, accuracy, flight or spin. If we can’t then we will tell you. That’s honest retailing.

As well as the clubs we again have a vast range of clothing (men’s, ladies and juniors), shoes, trolleys (electric and push/pull), accessories (including GPS and range finders), balls (see our special offer on other page), bags, putter and wedges. All this and competitive prices to match!!

Please come and visit, you won’t be disappointed.

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Phil

!

VERY SPECIAL BALL OFFER

Z Star (2014 model) 3 boxes for (NORMALLY £105)

£55

Ladies Soft Feel 3 boxes for (NORMALLY £51)

Name: ___________________________________

£40

Tri Speed (now AD333 Tour model)

3 boxes for (NORMALLY £82.50)

£40

Email: _____________________________________

M A X I M U M 3 P E R C U S T O M E R , E N D S F R I D AY 2 9 T H A P R I L 2 0 1 6 .

C L U B

S E L E C T O R

n At last an accurate launch monitor that can show you exactly how your current clubs perform against the new technology. n Clubs from Callaway, Cobra, Lynx, Ping, Taylormade, Titleist, Srixon and Wilson can be compared to find the most suitable ones for you. n Whether your looking for more length, greater accuracy, higher launch, shaft suitability for your swing or filling those missing wedge gaps, Skytrak and the team at Nevada Bobs Colchester can help. n All the information is projected on a 42 inch TV screen so you can see exactly what is happening in real time and 3D! n Suitable for Woods, Hybrids, Irons and Wedges (right and left handed).

THIS SYSTEM CAN ALSO BE PURCHASED FOR HOME USE. ASK IN STORE FOR DETAILS.

NEVADA BOB’S COLCHESTER 75 LONDON ROAD, COPFORD, COLCHESTER, ESSEX CO6 1LG TEL: 01206 212 752 EMAIL: info@nbcolchester.go-plus.net

COPFORD

Hours of Opening: Monday to Friday 9am to 6.30pm, Saturday 9am to 5.30pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm.

Directions: Store is only 15 minutes from Chelmsford just before Colchester. Come up the A12, turn off at the A120 junction, keep right and go over the A12, take the 1st exit into London Road. Store is 1 mile down this road on the right hand side.

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COLCHESTER

A12

B408 J25

NEVADA BOB’S

MARKS TEY

WHY ADVERTISE IN

MAGAZINE? Over 4000 digital and postal subscribers every month.

Essex Golfer Magazine is distributed to over 80 Golf Clubs plus Golf Shops and Driving Ranges in Essex.

First published in 1996. Essex Golfer Magazine is very well established and has been serving the golfers of Essex for over 20 years.

ADVERTISE FOR AS LITTLE AS £20 PER WEEK To book your advertisement or for futher information please call 01621 815577 or alternatively email info@essexgolfer.com

www.essexgolfer.com

HBBS Charity Golf Day Friday 10th June at Burstead Golf Club

T

rustees of the Havering and Brentwood Bereavement Service are pleased to welcome Essex Golfers to our Annual Golf Day, this year held for the second year running at Burstead Golf Club.

The proceeds will go towards funding our Children’s Bereavement Service for local children and young people struggling to come to terms with a close bereavement. The vast majority of these children have been bereaved of a sibling or a parent. Last year, we supported over 100 children through individual counselling and membership of our ‘Kids in it Together Club’ offering a range of social and activity events such as a ‘Forget me Not Christmas Party’ and paintballing. All of this worked is funded through grants, donations and fundraising.

In conjunction with the very professional and helpful staff at Burstead we have planned a great day for all those who attend. A late morning Full English breakfast will be followed by 18 holes on this great course followed by a highly recommended hog roast.

The cost per player is £52.

There will be a relaxed and friendly atmosphere on the day, but not to distract you from the golf, which can be as you like it. The Club professional will be on hand for shot clinic and will set up other challenges as you make your way round the course if you wish to join in.

It promises to be a good day.

For further information, please contact Louise on 01708 716870 or louise@hbbscounselling.org.

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ion tit pe Com Pr iz e

DOES THIS GREAT ESSEX GOLF HOLE

look familiar?

Name the course and have the chance of winning A FOURBALL ON THE MYSTERY COURSE 12 SRIXON TRISPEED GOLF BALLS, courtesy of COLCHESTER plus 2 of each VEGAS BALL MARKERS, Golf Rules Quick Reference Book and the Trouble Shots and Quick Fix Guide Please email your answer to info@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.

ON ITI R T PE NE M O C WIN

Last month’s winner was Greg Adams who recognised the 14th Hole at Hainault Upper Golf Course.

To play at Hainault Golf Club Call 0208 500 2131 www.hainaultgolfclub.co.uk - 10 -

ife L e c n e i r e p Ex AS A MEMBER OF The Burstead Golf Club You will be able to experience a day in the life as a member of our forward thinking and innovative Golf Club for just £25.

We have pleasure in offering you the unique opportunity to join our family here at The Burstead Golf Club.

Upon arrival you will be welcomed by our head professional Chris Nunn along with a complimentary coffee and bacon roll. Prior to your allocated tee time you will be able to spend time with Chris on the practise area to help you loosen up before your game.

After you have completed your round, head back to the clubhouse where you can share the experience of your day with Chris over lunch, with our compliments!

YOUR DAY AS A MEMBER AT A GLANCE: • • • • •

Coffee and a Bacon Roll Crested Pitch Mark Repairer and Ball Marker 18 holes of golf Complimentary Golf Buggy where available A meal and drink in the bar

If you decide to become a part of our thriving membership not only will we discount the cost of your day we will also provide you with a club crested shirt and balls so your day won’t have cost a penny!

Offer ends 30th April.

Contact the Club on:

01277 631171

chris.nunn@thebursteadgolfclub.com

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From Inside the Greenkeepers Shed T

his is the time of year every greenkeeper loves and I would imagine golfers as well. The clocks have gone forward, winter is concealed to the past and most importantly nature is awakening which is good as many greenkeeping teams will have completed early spring greens maintenance and are now praying that warmer weather promotes quick recovery to the putting greens in time for early competitions. Whilst air temperatures are important, your course manager will be regularly checking soil temperatures also, once soil temperatures rise above 6°c then enhanced soil microbial activity is triggered. I am guessing about now a few are thinking what are soil microbes, well the soil beneath our feet is full of biology and all this interlinks to produce nutrients for plants. Once soil temperatures rise then the activity of bacteria, fungi & protozoa are busily converting organic matter plus applied fertilisers into forms of nutrients which the plant can then take up via it roots to produce growth and additional tillering.

April will be very busy in terms of fertilising those areas which will be subjected to lots of foot traffic during the season ahead or repair and recovery those areas which have become worn or bare from the winter – chiefly entry & exit points to tees & greens. Choosing the appropriate fertiliser is a balancing act as ideally your course manager wants to see recovery and a healthy and strong grass surface but too much growth is a drain on resources as greenkeeping teams do not have the manpower to be cutting everything on the course twice a week plus golfers would rather see less interruptions to their round. Modern technology has allowed for slow release fertilisers that have coatings and gradually break down over a 5 month period and these are ideal for tees and walk off areas, whilst greens will have a regular programme

of little and often forms of nitrogen which are often applied via foliar feeds using the sprayer.

Inside the sheds all the mowers will be going through servicing and maintenance for the cutting season ahead, a lot of time and effort will be spent grinding cylinders (cutting reels) and bottom blades to ensure they are sharp and give a clean cut to the grass whilst mowing greens, fairways & tees.

If your course uses a triple greens mower that could easily rack up over 600 hours of use during the growing season therefore with greens requiring to be cut daily your course manager does not want any foreseeable mechanical breakdowns. Rough mowers and other rotary machines will probably have new blades fitted as well as they have to cut a lot of grass plus hydraulic pipes checked for wear & tear. Once the threat of frost has disappeared then overseeding to tees, greens and other worn areas can take place, special attachments to tractors and triple mowers can be used to inject grass seed into the soil surface to increase germination success while manual spiking, overseeding and dressing of localised worn areas will be popular afternoon jobs once the course has been set up for golf in the morning. If your club has voluntary divoting parties please consider forgoing just one round of golf and give that time up and join your hard working greenkeeping staff to help improve the landing areas on fairways and approaches that suffer badly with divots. It’s a great way to meet the greenstaff that work hard in all weathers to produce your golf course plus it improves the playability for the golfer; there is nothing more frustrating that hitting a great tee shot down the middle of the fairway only to find to ball resting in a taken divot which then compromises your next shot. I am very much looking forward to the season ahead and would like to wish those representing their clubs in county cup matches the best of luck in the various competitions.

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Ian Nichols BSc (Hons) Turfgrass Science & Deputy Course Manager Orsett Golf Club

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GC2 Launch Monitor e specialise in custom fitting for 5 different brands at Warley Park, Mizuno, Callaway, W Ping, Nike and Wilson.

Using the state of the art CG2 launch monitor system which will tell us exactly what is happening to your ball as it leaves the club face helping us dial in the perfect club(s) for you.

We look at the following to determine which clubs will suit you best and help improve your game:

• • • • • • •

Ball Speed Launch angle Side/Back Spin Peak Height Decent Angle Carry/Distance Dispersion/Accuracy

All custom fittings are undertaken by PGA professional Kevin Smith who has over 20 years of custom fitting/coaching experience, We can cater for the Elite golfer, beginner, Ladies, Seniors and Left Handed golfer, so please feel free to call us on 01277 200441 to arrange an appointment. One hour slots are available until the end of April free of charge.

- 14 www.warleypark.co.uk

18 HOLE

SOCIETY OFFER

£40 – 18 HOLES RANGE BALLS

COFFEE AND BACON BAPS ONE COURSE MEAL

AVAILABLE

ALL WEEK

1ST MARCH TO 31ST OCTOBER

Call the Pro Shop now on

01277 200 441 www.warleypark.co.uk

3 Months Trial Membership Unlimited golf on both courses Free golf lesson with PGA professional sionall Free guest greenfee voucher

*5 day ttrial rial iall mem m membership bersh bers er hi hip

20% discount on food and drink Price includes £25 credit on

*6 day trial membership

members card for food and drink

*7 day trial membership

£99 £125 £149

Contact Kevin on 01277 Email: kevin@warleypark.co.uk

200441 for more details

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THE GARY PIKE GOLF ACADEMY Top teaching professional Gary Pike PGA.AP (advanced professional) invites you to his golf academy at Forrester Park Golf Club near Maldon. Gary has over 31 years of coaching experience and is a David Leadbetter trained instructor. He has published over 150 articles on the golf swing. Gary is coach to Walker Cup player Dale Whitnell and was the Essex County Senior Coach from 1998 to 2012 Contact the golf academy on 07801 428 174 or visit www.garypikegolf.com

O

ver the previous two issues, we have looked at the pivot, first the posture and secondly the rotation on the spine axis, retaining the allimportant angles of the hips and knees. This issue we are going to make this pivot powerful creating a resistance to the backswing allowing a more dynamic release.

Before I talk about the swing, let’s look at firing an arrow from a bow (bear with me here, it is relevant ) when you fire an arrow you anchor the bow and pull the string away , this creates resistance and torsion, as you let go of the arrow and release this torsion the arrow flies away. We are trying to create this in the golf swing.

Picture 1 shows me in my set up drill, notice the width of my knees, now take a look at

1

picture 2 I have now rotated on my spine angle to the top of the backswing and notice my knees have hardly moved. The key point here is that I have now created torsion between my upper and lower body, it is this torsion that creates a more dynamic transition into the downswing.

If your backswing resembles picture 3 you have made a large backswing with plenty of coil however because of the lack of resistance caused by the excessive knee movement you have no resistance, so although big it is also weak.

Picture 4 demonstrates a more ideal position at the top of the backswing.

Next issue how does this new found energy release and the dynamic sequence.

Have fun

2

Gary 3

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4

The Notleys Golf Club

Black Notley, Essex 01376 329328 MEMBER SH I P O F F ER

GOLF SOCIETY PACkAGE

Limited Special Offer

Coffee, Bacon Roll and Ham, Egg and Chips

7 days annual membership for price of 5 – £475

27 holes – Weekdays £22 Weekends £27

Not open to existing members or members in the last 3 years. Fees will revert to normal rate in April 17

£5 off with this Advert

!

Come and Try 18 Holes Fourball

Married Partners 7 day membership £625 or £55 per month

£10 £30

For further details contact Clubhouse Manager Deborah Hulme 01376 329 328

FOR U S E WE EK D AY S AN D AFTER 1 2 p m WEEKE N D S AN D BAN K H OL ID AY

www.notleysgolfclub.co.uk

e-mail: golfwiseltd@btinternet.com

LUKE EGGLESTON The Custom Fit Golf Centre in the South Of England

SENIORS MIZUNO

F I T T I N G D AY F R I D A Y 1 2PM

2 0 T H

T HROU GH

M A Y

T IL L

6PM

LOOKING FOR YARDAGE, OR TO IMPROVE YOUR OVERALL GAME? MIZUNO DO NOT CHARGE EXTRA FOR GRAPHITE WHATEVER THE SHAFT ... THE PRICE STAYS THE SAME DON’T LET THE NUMBERS ON YOUR BIRTH CERTIFICATE DETERMINE THE NUMBER ON YOUR SCORECARD 298 RODING LANE SOUTH, WOODFORD GREEN, ESSEX IG8 8FE

www.lu ke- eggle st on.co.uk Email:

info@luke-eggleston.co.uk 551 3986

Telephone: 0208

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Sarah’s Spain Bound with England S

arah Bennett PGA Fellow Professional and Head Teaching Professional at Three Rivers Golf Club has just been rewarded a National role to support the National Squad as the Coach for one of their forthcoming matches.

Sarah’s selection will mean she will travel with the players representing England U16 Girls & Boys National Team. This is an annual match being held in Madrid against Spain at the end of May. Sarah landed her current regional role as the U18 England Golf Head Coach for the East Region just over 3 years ago with her goal some of her current squad will make National honours.

“This is an exciting opportunity to work with potential full National England players for the week.

I am looking forward to equipping the team with varied knowledge and contingencies during the week required for Tournament preparation and performance” Sarah aims to draw on her 20 years of her firsthand knowledge and experience from competing whilst playing both worldwide and Ladies European Tour Events. This coupled with her key objectives and attention to detail amassed over the years she hopes to aid the team’s development.

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Fed up with your current golf club?

Take advantage of an incredible offer... ;d`eo \kbb c[cX[hi^_f e\ J^[ MWhh[d =eb\ 9ekdjho 9bkX \hec dem kdj_b )&j^ 7fh_b (&'- \eh `kij '&&& Completed in 2015

+&&a _dl[ijc[dj _d d[m C[di BWZ_[i 9^Wd]_d] Heeci ;nj[di_l[ ZhW_dW][ _dijWbbWj_ed ed -j^" .j^ ''j^ \W_hmWoi

J[hci YedZ_j_edi Wffbo$ <[[i ckij X[ fW_Z _d \kbb Wj Yecc[dY[c[dj e\ oekh c[cX[hi^_f$ <hec 'ij CWo (&'- oekh \[[ m_bb h[l[hj je j^[ \kbb c[cX[hi^_f \[[ Wj j^Wj j_c[$ E\\[h ef[d kdj_b )&j^ 7fh_b (&',$ E\\[h edbo WlW_bWXb[ je f[hiedi m^e ^Wl[ dej X[[d W c[cX[h e\ J^[ MWhh[d m_j^_d j^[ bWij ) c[cX[hi^_f o[Whi$

Call now on 01245 223258 or email sales@thewarrenestate.co.uk The Warren Golf & Country Club, Woodham Walter, Essex, CM9 6RW

www.thewarrenestate.co.uk

For the Best Deals on Golf in Essex

www.essexgolfer.com Go to www.essexgolfer.com to see the latest deals on golf in and around Essex this month. Click on golfing offers to see the latest deals being offered which can be twilights, discounted 4 balls, plus many more.

The new website will also be a live hub for our Golf Mart, Holiday Golf and the very popular Events Page; details will be added live to the website and then published in the magazine at the end of the month. Up to date world golf news is available and will be joined with a live Essex golf feed later in the year. You can also subscribe to the magazine digitally or by post and view past electronic issues.

F I N D D I S C O U N T E D G R E E N F E E S I N YO U R A R E A

OAKPARK SECURITY CHARITY GOLF DAY THURSDAY 16TH JUNE 2016 n Coffee & Breakfast n 18 Hole Stableford Golf n Refreshments n Two Course Meal n Celebrity Guest Dennis Taylor n Charity Auction / Raffle Prizes Please contact: Ken Hilton, Oakpark Security Systems Ltd, Asset House, 4 East Street, Colchester, Essex CO1 2TX Telephone: 01206 793 673 Email: ken.hilton@oaksec.co.uk - 20 -

A friendly welcome awaits you at

Gosfield Lake Golf Club BOOK NOW FOR YOUR 2 0 1 6 S O C I E T Y D AY Spring & Summer Societies 2016 Prices from £24 for lunch 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

Spring & Summer Specials 2016 Breakfast or Lunch and Green Fee Lakes Course £25 Meadows Course £20

Twilight Golf Contact Pro shop for tee times and best prices

Membership Opportunities Quality Golf at Affordable Prices

Family Golf Special Introductory Rates for Parents and Children

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

Matt Stables is a PGA Advanced Professional based at North Weald Golf Club near Epping. Matt played collegiate golf in the USA and today competes in regional and national pro tournaments. As a teacher, Matt is a published author and is qualified in club making, golf fitness, the mental side of golf & Aimpoint green reading. As a golf coach, Matt believes in good fundamentals, including an on plane swing, an understanding of each individual’s strengths and weaknesses, plus an effective short game.

Golf tuition is available from Matt call 01992 522 118 mobile 07808 003 619, or www.MattStablesGolf.com

Get out on the Course to Sharpen the Game!!

W

ith the weather breaking and the days getting longer, the enthusiasm to get out on the course is on the rise for most golfers, especially those who have played through the cold winter months. At this time of the year you may be adjusting for the ball going further, swinging in fewer clothes and just enjoying the more pleasant experience of being on the course. It will take a time to get used to the changing conditions to get your game sharp again. So consider getting out for 9 holes and treat it like a on course practice session to see how your game is and what improvements are needed. More than likely your short game, bunker play and course management are areas that may need some attention.

PLAY THE BEST BALL Be sure that the course is quiet, this is a brilliant time to be on your own on the course.You can play 9 holes and tee off with two balls on each hole then choosing the best one.Then from there you play 2 balls on each shot until you hole out. So if you play a bad shot or make a wrong decision you will be able to learn from it and make an adjustment which is something you don’t get the opportunity to do during normal play. If you hit a great shot, you don’t have to hit another. However, it will help to develop your confidence, and as you get better, you may find you don’t need to hit the second ball as much. Aim to keep track of your score.

O N C O U R S E G O L F C O N S U LTAT I O N

I

s your Golf on the course different to the Driving Range? If you would like to improve your game on the course, I am offering a 4 hole or 9 hole on a course session to a make a real difference to your scores. We can see what is happening where it counts and make a plan to improve your game. Cost is £40 for a 4 hole session and £55 for a 9 hole session. Please get in contact to book your consultation ... Offer expires 10th May Quote Essex Golfer, and you will receive £5 off...

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Burnham-on-Crouch Golf Club Private Members Club for All Abilities

DAYS LOST TO WEATHER THIS YEAR TO DATE = ONE! No Temporary Tees – No Temporary Greens.

Are we the Driest Course in Essex?

NEW SEASON OFFER, JOIN NOW UNTIL 31ST MARCH 2017 FOR 7 DAY MEMBERSHIP – 7 DAY PM MEMBERSHIP – 5 DAY MEMBERSHIP –

£825 £450 £665

N

M HA

-ON-CR

£76 PER FOURBALL OU

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A MEMBERS GOLF CLUB IN A TRANQUIL SETTING LOOK NO FURTHER

BU

CH

R

GREEN FEE OFFER FOR APRIL.

GO

LF CLUB

*For further information call 01621 782 Visit www.burnhamgolfclub.co.uk

Join our club

Ufford Park Woodbridge

It doesn’t matter if you play off scratch, or have just decided to take up golf, you will receive a warm welcome at Ufford Park.

Our award-winning 18 hole, par 71 course is playable no matter what the weather due to excellent drainage, and our dedicated team of Greenkeepers.

Book your tee time online, visit the on-site AmericanGolf superstore and practice your swing on our 2 storey floodlit driving range, all before you even set foot on the lovingly cared for course.

Golf membership from

only £200*

* Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply..

t 0844 847 9405 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW

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282

Woodbridge Golf Club W

oodbridge Golf Club has continued to press forward with many improvements to the facility over the past six months, establishing itself as one of the premier venues in East Anglia.

The club has enlisted the services of celebrated architect, Martin Hawtree and has embarked on a programme of enhancements around the courses.

Ranked 75th in Golf world’s Top 100 courses in England 2015 (a rise of 16 places); the club is expediting plans to rise further, with an aim of making the top 50.

Off course facilities have also benefitted with the addition of a 3 hole academy course, refurbishment of various areas of the clubhouse and further investment into course maintenance equipment.

However, the most exciting development is the new purpose built ‘Performance and Custom Fitting Studio’. The bespoke studio boasts state of the art technology and is unrivalled in Suffolk.

Working with the latest Trackman 4 launch monitor, as used by the world’s best players, the Professionals are able to assist every level of golfer for coaching or custom fitting.

The studio can be converted to an indoor simulator should the weather be inclement, allowing full year round use. With thousands of possible combinations the expert staff will guide customers through the custom fitting process for all areas of equipment. From driver to a full club fitting, club distance and gapping or the specialist Trackman Combine test, Woodbridge has it all.

FACILITIES • Performance and Custom Fitting Studio • Warm up range • Chipping area with full size green and bunkers • Putting green • Large grassed practice area • FREE lessons for beginners • 3 hole academy course • 9 hole short course played over the Forest course (holes 80-200 yards) • 9 hole Forest course • 18 hole Heath course • Clubhouse with bar, catering and changing facilities • Golf Shop with a full range of golfing equipment staffed by PGA Professionals.

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Woodbridge Golf Club Limited Membership Opportunities Call Sean Clark on 01394 382038 for more information www.woodbridgegolfclub.co.uk “East Anglia’s Finest”

Stableford Proving Popular as Reports of Golf ’s Demise are Greatly Exaggerated

T

o misquote Mark Twain, reports of golf ’s demise have been greatly exaggerated.

While there may be a downturn in the number of members at UK&I golf clubs, conversely the number of competitive rounds at clubs is on the increase. That’s the findings of HowDidiDo, Europe’s largest golfing community, which holds the handicaps, results and scores of more than 1,300,000 UK golf club members.

Analysis of the 2015 data shows that ladies’ medal rounds at the 2,000-odd clubs using the system were up by two per cent on 2014, while Stableford rounds rose by nearly 11 per cent to 469,530.

Meanwhile, the men’s rounds also showed a similar increase: one per cent in medal rounds (to 2,190,782) and five per cent in Stableford (1,875,523). Meanwhile, par competitions – formerly known as bogey competitions – dropped by almost 1,000 rounds across both genders.

In total, there was an overall four per cent increase in the number of competition rounds played by HowDidiDo club members in 2015, up to 5,031,056.

Barry Dyett, managing director of HowDidiDo, believes the figures indicate a move to more club golfers playing competitions – but of the Stableford variety in preference to medal rounds.

He said: “While there is still an increase in the number of medal rounds being played, the drift towards Stableford is more noticeable as the gap between the two closes. What’s more, compared with 2013, there were around 11,000 fewer medal rounds played, but almost 200,000 more Stableford rounds – that’s a considerable swing.”

HowDidiDo is Europe’s largest golfing community, holding in excess of 21 million rounds of golf along with the handicaps, results and scores of more than 1,300,000 UK golf club members, with more than 460,000 golfers currently using the website.

Nearly 2,000 golf clubs currently use the HowDidiDo system, allowing members to analyse their game and compare performance with other players – at their own club or across the entire HowDidiDo network. It is also used for official CONGU handicapping and competition results.

HowDidiDo, in association with the Daily Telegraph, is also currently engaged in a widespread campaign with the BOSS Watches H1Club to reward all its registered golfers with a luxury timepiece should they record a hole-inone during an official club competition.

It also powers the annual Titleist Order of Merit, the largest golf event of its kind in the country, which now sees more than 20,000 golfers take part each year – making it one of the UK’s most subscribed sporting competitions, behind only events like the London Marathon and Great North Run – and the Morocco Matchplay, a UK singles and pairs competition culminating in a grand final in the North African country, in February. www.howdidido.com

- 26 -

Dorset Competition Winner

I

n the February edition of Essex Golfer we ran a competition for a 3 day golf break for 2 people at The Dorset Golf Resort.

We asked the question: “What is the name of the new 5 star cottage at the Dorset Resort?”

Our congratulations go out to Mal Vickery who answered correctly with, Oakland Cottage.

Braintree Golf Club Corporate Golf Memberships From Only £2995 Braintree Golf Club, The Friendly Golf Club, that welcomes local business Call Today 01376 346079 or Email clubmanager@braintreegolfclub.co.uk www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk

T&C’s apply

- 27 -

GOLF ETIQUETTE Some people may be asking, “Why would I need a book about correct conduct? I know how to behave myself.” Although integrity and fairness are an excellent basis, good manners alone are not enough in golf.

A certain amount of specific knowledge is essential, especially in the light of the dangers involved in sport.

Furthermore, golf also involves social conventions that are not based directly on accepted behaviour patterns. The etiquette is just as important as the rules of play and it ensures that all players can enjoy their game as much as possible.

This book does not claim to cover every single issue but it does contain everything you need to know in order to be welcomed at virtually every course in the world. However, please bear in mind that the etiquette may very slightly from club to club. Therefore find out about the Local Rules in advance, follow all the instructions and heed the information on the notice boards.You will then be a welcome guest and playing partner on any course – irrespective of your ability level.

Order now on online at www.essexgolfer.com

- 28 -

18

beautiful holes of golf

Set in over 300 acres of undulating parkland, with stunning views of the Essex countryside.

Additional par 3 practice course

Societies welcome (Monday - Friday)

Limited membership available

Channels, Pratts Farm Lane East Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT T: 01245 440 005 E: info@channelsce.co.uk

www.cliffordsestate.co.uk - 29 -

Future Golfing Events & Competitions 26 April 2016

Theydon Bois Golf Club Senior Ladies Team Open. Includes coffee and Danish on arrival and meal after golf. £120 per team (4). Annie Sydenham: 01992 813054 colinjones@theydonboisgolfclub.co.uk www.theydongolf.co.uk

19 May 2016

Bentley Golf Club Ladies Team Open. Includes tea/coffee and Danish pastry on arrival, halfway house and 2-course meal after golf. £140 per team.

Alex Holmes: 01277 373179 info@bentleygolfclub.com www.bentleygolfclub.com

22 May 2016

Chelmsford Golf Club Mixed Pairs Open. Includes tea/coffee and sandwiches on arrival, Pimms at halfway and extensive buffet luncheon after golf. £85 per couple.

Iain Wallace: 01245 254900 iain@chelmsfordgc.co.uk www.chelmsfordgc.co.uk

14 June 2016

Chelmsford Golf Club Ladies Pairs Open. Includes coffee and Danish on arrival and extensive buffet luncheon after golf. £70 per pair.

Iain Wallace: 01245 254900 iain@chelmsfordgc.co.uk www.chelmsfordgc.co.uk

22 June 2016

Braintree Golf Club Mixed Pairs Open. Includes lunch and evening meal. £66 per couple.

Lu Markham: 01376 346079 clubmanager@braintreegolfclub.co.uk www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk

23 June 2016

Colchester Golf Club Gents Senior Pairs Open. Includes coffee on arrival and 2-course meal after golf. £70 per pair. Dave Blackmore: 01206 853396 secretary@colchestergolfclub.com www.colchestergolfclub.com

27 June 2016

Three Rivers Golf and Country Club Ladies Team Open.Team of 3 Stableford – best 2 scores. £99 per team (3). Sally Roberts: 01621 829781 info@threeriversclub.com www.threeriversclub.com

07 July 2016

Bentley Golf Club Gents Senior Pairs Open. Includes coffee on arrival and lunch (jacket and tie). £60 per pair. Alex Holmes: 01277 373179 info@bentleygolfclub.com www.bentleygolfclub.com

24 July 2016

Braintree Golf Club ‘Paul Farnsworth Trophy’ Gents Pairs Open. Includes lunch and evening meal. £66 per pair. Lu Markham: 01376 346079 clubmanager@braintreegolfclub.co.uk www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk

27 July 2016

Stapleford Abbotts Golf Club Ladies Team Open. Includes light breakfast on arrival, halfway refreshments and 2-course meal after golf. £102 per team (3).

Barbara Dennis: 01708 381108 www.staplefordabbottsgolf.co.uk

08 August 2016 Rochford Hundred Lady Captain’s Charity Ladies Open. Coffee and Bacon Sandwich on arrival, refreshments at halfway house, two course carvery buffet. £96 per team of 3.

Pam Meredith: 01702 554469 www.rochfordhundredgolfclub.co.uk 27 August 2016 Thorndon Park Golf Club Mixed Pairs Open. Mixed Sandwiches and coffee on arrival, refreshments at halfway house and two course summer buffet. £90 per couple.

James Fuller: 01277 810345 office@thorndonpark.com www.thorndonparkgolfclub.com 01 Sept 2016

Bentley Golf Club Mixed Pairs Open. Includes tea/coffee and Danish on arrival, halfway refreshments and 2-course meal after golf. £70 per couple.

Alex Holmes: 01277 373179 info@bentleygolfclub.com www.bentleygolfclub.com

08 Sept 2016

Theydon Bois Golf Club Ladies Team Open. Includes coffee and Danish on arrival, home made cake and Pimms at halfway and rolling buffet after golf. £144 per team (4) Ann Zoers: 01992 813054 colinjones@theydonboisgolfclub.co.uk www.theydongolf.co.uk

09 Sept 2016

Thorndon Park Golf Club Ladies Pairs Open. Includes coffee and biscuits on arrival and carvery lunch after golf. £80 per pair. Joanna Philpot: 01277 810345 office@thorndonpark.com www.thorndonparkgolfclub.com 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

- 30 -

Loughton Golf Club epping forest

CAPTAINS SPECIAL OFFER Free Golf During May (Donation to Captains Charity) This voucher entitles two people to enjoy 18 holes of golf free during May (1st-31st inclusive) at Loughton Golf Club. (£5 voluntary donation to St Clare’s Hospice).

SENIOR SPECIAL WEDNESDAY:

Unlimited golf every Wednesday between April-October only £7.50 (55+years) 7 day membership only £299 New family membership offer, 1adult + 1child only £350 Loughton Golf Club, Clays Lane, Loughton, Essex IG10 2BF 020 8502 2923 to book a tee time

www.loughtongolfclub.com

1880

Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club offers 27 quality holes of excellent golf

PAY & PLAY

on the only true Links Course in Suffolk – £50 (w.days) / £60 (w.ends & Bank holidays) The 18 hole Martello Course is the 5th oldest golf course in England and has breathtaking views of the Suffolk coastline.

PAY & PLAY

on our 9 hole Kingsfleet course – £14 (w.days) / £18 for holes (w.ends & Bank holidays) a chance to play on the superb Par 35 course with magnificent views across the Deben Estuary.

For further information, please go to our website www.felixstowegolf.co.uk

01394 286 834 - 31 -

Exquisite Grismont Golf Clubs Combine Power and Beauty

E

voking the magnificence and mystery of ancient Asian sculptures and Arabic architecture, the exquisite 3D-printed Grismont driving irons are new for golfers in 2016.

Hand-crafted to order in Paris, these limitededition golf clubs are the brainchild of 26year old golf equipment designer Clément Pouget-Osmont.

Having made custom clubheads for his friends from his Paris apartment, the young businessman embraced his passion for golf by subsequently conducting a thorough two-year development and testing programme which revealed explosive performance characteristics to match the clubs’ haute-couture visuals.

Grismont Driving Irons.

Three exotic models are available in the initial Grismont range: ORI, which takes its visual cues from the Mashrabiya, a traditional Arabic latticework window design which dates from the Middle Ages; CÉS, inspired by ancestral Asian sculptures; and AIR, a stunning see-through model which reinvents the back of a modern golf club, pushing 3D-printed golf technology to a new limit.

Expert Paris-based ‘digital designers’ Linlin and Pierre Jacques worked with Pouget-Osmont to apply these evocative designs to Grismont golf equipment, ensuring that the startlingly-original aesthetics did not compromise the clubs’ fairwaysplitting distance and control properties.

The 3D printing production process enables

Grismont to create incredibly detailed shapes with extreme precision, producing a micro-welded clubhead inherently stronger than traditional cast irons.

Golfers would be excused for thinking that these extraordinary-looking clubs are blades, but the ornate Grismont clubheads actually contain a game-improvement cavity which adds forgiveness to the power, making them suitable for golfers of all handicaps who prefer the muscular feel and increased control of a driving iron to the more high-flying characteristics of a utility or hybrid club.

Although Grismont’s stainless steel clubheads are available in standard 1-iron (17 deg), 2-iron (19 deg) and 3-iron (21deg) lofts, the company can also custom-build the irons to order in any loft from 15 to 25 degrees, to suit a golfer’s wishes.

All clubs are available in Right Hand and Left Hand configuration, in both Men’s and Ladies spec.

With a UK demo day programme still in development, golfers currently order their Grismont irons via an online customisation platform, where model, head colour, loft, setup and Grismont grip can be specified, as well as a choice of third-party shafts.

Once the golfer has chosen an exact online specification, the clubs are then built to order by Grismont 3D printing technicians at the firm’s Paris headquarters.

Golfers can also send a video of their swing to Grismont, enabling technicians to construct clubs exactly matched to the individual.

ORI and CÉS models are available in a variety of colours including a Classic Metal finish at £1,200 per club, a Copper finish at £1,900 per club, and a Gold finish at £2,300 per club. The AIR is available in a Classic Metal finish only at £1,400 per club.

- 32 -

GOLF IN FRANCE

METROPOLE GOLF BREAKS Hardelot • Le Touquet • Wimereux • St Omer • Belle Dune • Dunkirk & Nampont St.Martin

SEPT/OCT OFFER 2016 pp

£269

2 NIGHTS DINNER B&B - 3 ROUNDS OF GOLF - TUNNEL

Choice of Wimereux - Belle Dune Le Touquet Forest - Hardelot Dunes

HOTEL METROPOLE

n Ideal for golf societies n Late Bar & English TV n Snooker, Pool, Darts & Football table

SEASONAL OFFER (May – September) pp

£259

TUNNEL - 2 NGTS DINNER B&B 3 ROUNDS OF GOLF AT THE SAME COMPLEX

€50 BAR VOUCHER 1 per group of min 8 pers for a stay between 20th July and 20th August 2016. T&C’s apply.

Le Touquet or Hardelot

METROPOLE GOLF BREAKS Call Rosemary 0787 2067 406 Email: rosemary@metropolegolfbreaks.com Website: www.hotel-metropole.co.uk Conditions apply. Offers include 2 nights DInner B&B, Golf, Tunnel - Car + 4 persons and based on twin rooms mid week.

Golf Monday - Thursday. Supplements for weekend Golf.

- 33 -

Its FREE to advertise anything in Golf Mart, Tel: 01621 815 577 E-Mail:- info@essexgolfer.com Visit our live up to date golf mart page at www.essexgolfer.com FOR SALE: Taylormade Jetspeed No 4 Utility Club with a Regular Shaft. Head Cover included. Reason for selling - unwanted birthday present. Brand New. Chelmsford - £55.00 ONO. Tel: 07966 617 983.

Email: jim.flynn0@yahoo.com

FOR SALE: Ladies Yonex Cyberstar, Driver/3 wood/5 wood/6 wood plus Irons 5-SW. All been re-gripped.

Basildon - £100.00 ONO. Tel: 07793 197478 Email: helentompkins777@hotmail.com FOR SALE: Puma AMP Cell Fusion golf shoes (beet red-white) size 8.5, vgc, only worn once. Leigh-on-Sea, Essex - £35.00. Tel: 07971 937 475.

Email: PThompson@castlepoint.gov.uk

FOR SALE: Senior mens irons Benross Aldila Shafts 5 to PW. Woodford Green - £120.00.

Tel: 02085 050 623. Email: email@afine.plus.com FOR SALE: Wilson Staff left hand Di5 Irons. 3 through to SW. Wilson Sam Snead Putter. Left hand Hippo Plus 1,3,5 metal woods. All in excellent condition. Hardly used - £125.00 ONO. Wilson 8 inch carry bag. Navy blue/grey/black. Excellent Condition, hardly used, Benfleet - £25.00 ONO. Tel: 07768 596 809.

Email: tonynewman52@hotmail.co.uk

WANTED: Single seated ride-on golf buggy.

Tel: 01708 220 938.

FOR SALE: Left-hand Cobra Golf Clubs: Driver, 3, 5, 7, 9, Woods, Baffler, 5,6,7,8,9 Irons, Wedge, Sand Wedge, Lob Wedge, Putter, 9" Golf Bag. Great Baddow, Essex £200.00. Tel: 01245 472 178.

Email: clarehempstead@virginmedia.com

FOR SALE: Powakaddy Freeway Electric trolley including battery and charger. Will deliver locally. Any trial - £50.00. ClicGear Cart Bag. Black/Red. All zips work. Complete with ClicGear bag raincover, umbrella holder. Top left tube fabric worn otherwise good condition - £45.00 ONO. Leigh-on-Sea. Tel: 07771 621 621. Email: i.finer@btinternet.com

FOR SALE: Sun Mountain golf trolley good working condition with cup holder and umbrella support.

Also Sun Mountain carry bag. Rochford - £60.00.

Tel: 07850 214 335. Email: hilary.lister@qatc.co.uk FOR SALE: Powerkaddy Classic Legend electric trolley.

Excellent condition, including battery and charger. Injury forces sale. Hornchurch, Essex - £140.00.

Tel: 07802 278 321 Email: brian_smith1940@hotmail.com FOR SALE: 72cm junior bag with 11 assorted clubs. £20.00. 80cm junior bag with stand - £10.00.

Redbridge. Tel: 02085 503 501.

Email: peter1richardson@ntlworld.com FOR SALE: Six Ping G30 Irons. 6,7,8,9,pw.sw. Steel regular shafts, regular length and lie. Immaculate clubs like new. Leigh on Sea - £325.00 ONO. Tel: 07446 112 930. Email: fleetweld@hotmail.com FOR SALE: Golf Balls Titleist and Nike in box of 10.

Anything you need for your golf at the price you like to pay. Southend-on-Sea - £4.00. Tel: 01702 600 454.

Email: enrico.bedini@talktalk.net

FOR SALE: Full set up for sale. Ping Driver and Woods, Callaway xhot2 hybrid, Mizuno mx200 irons, vokey wages, one click Trolly and titleist cart bag, sky caddie gps - Essex - £250.00 ONO. Tel: 07557 954 370.

Email: Nsodell57@gmail.com

FOR SALE: Stewart Z3 Push Trolley Metallic Blue with Umbrella Holder and Trolley Bag VGC. Epping, Essex £50.00. Tel: 01992 576 060 Epping.

Email: robert.g.dawson@btinternet.com FOR SALE: Powakaddy remote golf trolley with charger and battery average condition, with sit on seat.

Thundersley - £175.00. Tel: 07759 892 819.

Email: louisebrianhunt@hotmail.com FOR SALE: Taylormade R11 gents driver 10.5.

Adjustable loft, face angle and centre of gravity. Excellent condition. Brentwood - £40.00. Tel: 01277 231 359.

Email: arturo4312@gmail.com FOR SALE: Set of Left Handed Ping G20 irons Black dot 3 to Wedge, Utility Wedge and Sand Wedge. Steel Shafts VGC - £315.00. Set of Left Handed Mizuno Irons, Steel shafts and New Grips. 2,3,4 MP Hi Fli Irons.

5 to Wedge MP57 Irons Good condition.

Great Wakering - £195.00. Tel: 07751 126 694.

Email: george.timms1568@btinternet.com -- 34 34 --

FORRESTER PARK GOLF CLUB ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“To find a man’s true character, play golf with him” - PG Wodehouse DS FER EN F O S I T H TH 016 PRIL 2 15 A

THREE-MONTHS’ TRIAL FULL MEMBERSHIP: £150

All the rights of a full member; Gain a handicap; Play in club competitions; Clubhouse discount card; 7 day advance booking; Up to £150 oơ your sub if you continue your membership (Ts & Cs apply)

~~~~~

FLEXIBLE ‘CLUB’ MEMBERSHIP: £310 One year’s golf membership; 60 greenfee credits; One year’s golf union membership; 7 day advance booking; Gold discount card; Play in club competitions; Gain a handicap ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

01621 891406 Great Totham, Nr Maldon, CM9 8EA info@forrester-park.co.uk / www.forrester-park.co.uk

- 35 -

The Grand Opening.

40 Years at Forrester Park I

n 1932 Mary Muir moved into a 16th century barn in Great Totham. 35 years later Mary’s son, Douglas Forrester-Muir, read an article predicting a boom in the golf industry and he and his wife Susie set about designing and building a golf course. This involved the family eating quantities of Victoria Plums to use the tins as hole cups, Susie sewing home-made flags to attach to bamboo canes, and the recruitment of blind war veterans to make all the tee mats.

In 1968 the Grand Opening of the 9-hole course took place. Greenfee money went into a Quality Street ‘honesty’ tin and the price was 10 shillings (50p) a round.

Tim and Douglas at work.

Late in 1975 Forrester Park became a club run

by Susie and her 21-year-old son Tim following Douglas’s death.

Their house became the clubhouse and between them they did all the mowing and cooking, Robert Muir taking it in turns to (Mary’s husband). run the bar at lunchtime; Tim meanwhile was learning the greenkeeping trade at college and gaining handson experience at the nearby Warren Golf Club.

The club’s longest-standing member, Bob Oatham, joined in January 1976, closely followed

- 36 -

T

TT

The garden then and now.

by Mike Parsons, Ray Quy and Derek Wallis, all of whom still regularly play at the club.

1978 saw the arrival as a member of Doug Pitt; 30 years later, the club was the setting for his wedding to his childhood sweetheart – at the age of 86.

In 1983 Tim finally moved out of the clubhouse where he had been living, like a bat in the attic, above the bar. A year later two tennis courts were built and the Forrester Park Tennis Club was formed. Three years after that the club’s longeststanding member of staff, Sally Thake, joined as a barmaid and has remained the personification of the club’s friendly welcome ever since.

In 1990 an additional 9 golf holes and a 300yard practice ground were created and shortly afterwards Gary Pike, Advanced PGA Professional, set up his teaching school at Forrester Park.

Around this time Bill Warner joined the club, remaining for many years. Born in 1913 he was the last Empire Golf Champion.

In 1993 England cricket captain Alistair Cook became a Junior member, staying for over 10 years until cricket prevailed. In 2009 Dale Whitnell, who joined the club aged 10 and is now a Life member, was on the British Walker Cup team and in 2012 Dale made the cut at The Open, finishing tied with Rory McIlroy.

In 2011 Forrester Park hosted the Pearl Wedding Anniversary of the first ever couple to hold their wedding reception at the club in 1981.

Also in 2011 Craig Lockwood established his Teaching Academy at Forrester Park, building links with many local schools and coaching hundreds of

golfers of all ages including three youngsters who are now in the Essex Under-12s.

Over the years the Clubhouse has been extended to include a 120-seater function suite, meeting rooms and a range of other facilities. Two more tennis courts and an indoor swimming pool have been built in the grounds, and Forrester Park has also become the home of the Maldon Croquet Club.

Tim Forrester-Muir has run the club since the beginning and its family ethos has remained the same throughout the years. Over 20 of the current members joined more than 30 years ago and in excess of 120 have been members for over 20 years.

However the club has moved with the times, bringing in membership and greenfee initiatives such as ‘Silver’ memberships to celebrate the 25th anniversary in 2000 (Summer, Off-Peak and Commuter), a sliding scale of Colt memberships, a ‘Club’ membership offering greenfee credits and, most recently, a ‘Player Card’ for regular greenfee players.

The club runs informal events such as Night Golf, Supper Matches, 9-hole evening competitions, an annual Big Golf Team Challenge (Head Chef vs Pro vs Head Greenkeeper), intersection friendlies (including golf vs tennis) etc.

The latest venture is into the world of social media, including Facebook advertising

campaigns,

an enhanced website, online tee bookings and regular e-mails to members non-members.

and

There is plenty more in the pipeline as we look forward to the next 40 years.

The 1st fairway used to be a little shorter.

The 1st green is now a little further away.

- 37 -

For your FREE advert in Holiday Golf, E-mail no more than 50 words with your details to info@essexgolfer.com For more listings go to www.essexgolfer.com FOR SALE: Large detached golf villa, 3 double bedroom, 2 baths, massive basement, in excellent 9 hole golf course. Nice views. 15 minutes to San Javier Airport and Mar Menor Sea. Near shops, bars, restaurants, supermarkets.

Great community. Bargain buy. Sierra Golf Resort, Balsicas, Murcia €125000.00 Poh Foong T: 07957 861887 E: pcfoong@aol.com

FOR RENT: Overlooking Bernard Langer designed course from front and back terraces, this 2 bed apartment offers the ideal location to explore the peaceful Spanish area of the Costa Azahar, between Barcelona and Valencia.

Offers great value for money, with all mod cons - Spain - £200.00 Per Week (From). Nigel T: 07711 470146 E: nigelmartin2006@hotmail.c

FOR RENT: Costa del Sol Golf holidays. for all your golfing requirements from 2 to 20 people, offering accommodation (various, hotels - villas), club and car hire available and all the best courses in southern spain to choose from. www.royale-golf.com.

Costa Del Sol - £100.00 exclusive offers available. Jason Luczyniec T: 07815 323265 E: jluczyniec@gmail.com

FOR RENT: At Four Seasons Fairways within Quinta do Lago golf course and the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve. 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom villa with private pool. Sleeps 8. Available for one week only – Thursday 28th April – 5th May 2016. - Algarve, Portugal - £750.00 Per Week For Rent: Algarve, Portugal at Four Seasons Fairways within Quinta do Lago golf course and the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve. 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom villa with private pool. Sleeps 8. Available for one week only – Thursday 28th April – 5th May 2016 Algarve - £750.00 Malcolm Wehmeyer.

T: 07749 705 968 E: malcolm.wehmeyer@yahoo.co

FOR RENT: Week 26 (25/6/16) spacious 2 bed apartment, which overlooks 18th fairway - valley course, Unlimited golf available to all residents on a choice of two 18 hole championship courses. It also includes use of hotel pool and fitness centre.

Barnham Broom, Norwich. £600.00 ono.

Graham Podd T: 07882 700497 E: podds@blueyonder.co.uk FOR RENT: Beautiful 2 bedroom villa with communal pool in Ciudad Quesada, Costa Blanca. Sleeps 4. Free wi-fi. 5 Championship golf courses within easy reach, walking distance to bars, restaurants and supermarket, beaches within 20min drive. Ciudad Quesada, Costa Blanca - £250.00 (from). Elaine E: tennis.brimson@btinternet.

FOR RENT: Stunning 3 bedroom villa with communal pool in Villamartin, Costa Blanca. Sleeps 6. Free wi-fi. 5 Championship golf courses within easy reach, walking distance to bars and restaurants, beaches within 15min drive.

Costa Blanca - £300.00 (From). Elaine E: tennis.brimson@btinternet.

FOR RENT: Costa Blanca 45 mins Alicante and 20 mins Murcia airport. 2 bedroom g/f apartment, sleeps 4/6. on quiet urbanisation with swimming pool.

Walking distance to all amenities, 15 minute drive to golf courses, 10 minutes to beaches and town. Full details available - Spain - £ POA Linda Smith.

T: 07710 801 872 E: lindamarysmith@gmail.com FOR RENT: 2 bedroom ground floor apartment, sleeps up to 6. On quiet urbanisation with swimming pool.

Restaurants/bars, hotel, supermarket within walking distance. 15 minute drive to golf courses, 10 minutes to beaches and town. Also 1 bed apartment, sleeps 3/4 – £150.00 Per Week (From.)

Linda Smith. T: 07710 801 872 E: lindamarysmith@gmail.com FOR RENT: Golf Resort Hacienda Riquelme Resort – Murcia – Spain – 2 Bedroom Apartment sleeps 4-6, part of the Jack Nicklaus golf trail, secure gated - 38 -

community, great course, amenities on site, beaches nearby, 15 min drive to airport, cheap flights available - Murcia, Spain - £250.00 from. Lee E: lee_hibell@hotmail.com FOR SALE: Large single story Lodge for sale 1 weeks timeshare ownership at the prestigious resort in Cornwall, week 31. Maintenance fee includes two rounds golf daily. in excellent, very peaceful location. Two large double bedrooms and a pull down double bed in th - St Mellion - £2000.00 Per Week.

Jakie. E: Jackie@jsoilleux.fsnet.co FOR RENT: Beautiful 2 bed, both ensuite, villa in the Palm Springs area, Southern California. Situated on a 27 hole champion golf course. Private pool and spa. Gated community with club house, pro shop, tennis courts, fitness centre, bar and dining room - Southern California - £400.00 Per Week. Elaine.

Email: elainemcgilvray@yahoo.com.

FOR RENT: 15 minutes to airport and the sea. Located in a Golf Resort with onsite bars and pool and a golfer’s paradise. 2 beds. It is possible to LIVE THERE FOR FREE subject to personal Costa Calida - €500.00 inclusive of council tax, building and contents insurance. E: 126@pcmlap.com FOR RENT: Large modern 2 bed 2 bath apartment with 2 pools sea views in Western Algarve Luz short walk to blue flag beach many superb restaurants .Great golf courses Boavista, Penina, Palmares all close. The beautiful historic town of Lagos a10 minute drive. Western Algarve Luz - £ POA. Keith Clissold T: 07710 959 479 E: keith.clissold@btconnect FOR SALE: Star Island Resort one week, 3 bedroom, suit time share. Sleeps 8 deeded (week 11) 2nd week in March.

Will exchange for 2 weeks in a 2 bedroom worldwide. 4 miles from Disney 2 miles from Falcons Fire Golf course See star-island.com - Orlando Florida. Call for details. David T: 01277 899222 Mob: 07984 146 658

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With our comprehensive product range, specialist sales managers and expert service technicians we are sure we can find the right match for you.

Contact your local sales manager for further information or to arrange a free demonstration.

Head Office: Ulting, Maldon CM9 6QH Simon Jennings 07870 230806 Portsmouth Road, Esher KT10 9AD David Watson 07766 133600 83 Main Rd, Sutton-at-Hone, Dartford Paul Scarfe 07870 230983

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Sarah Bennett Golf PGA Fellow Professional

Come and visit Sarah at Three Rivers Golf & Country Club and learn from a Ladies European Tour & PGA Fellow Professional. Sarah has over 20 years of experience in the industry, a former +4 hcp player, one of the lowest handicap’s achieved in the UK. Sarah was one of a select few British players to win the Moria Smyth Salver (low amateur Women’s British Open).

A certified TPI Junior L2 Fitness Instructor and Jim Hardy Plane Truth Certified Instructor Sarah coaches players new to the game, through to County and the Professional ranks. She is delighted to pass on her first-hand experience to guide and assist her clients with course management techniques incorporating the mental side with her specific qualification.

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

H

aving recently returned from a trip abroad the highlight was to further my coaching knowledge which this year was based on Golf Statistics.

I was very privileged to listen to the guru of Golf Statistics Mark Broadie, the author of Every Shot Counts. The book details his renowned strokes gained system widely used on the PGA Tour coupled with some excellent putting and chipping games.

Follow me on Facebook: SarahBennettGolf Twitter: @sbennettgolf

Golf is a game full of promises of improvement with the latest and newest pieces of equipment, which can sometimes be confusing for the club golfer.

I am all for technological advancements and innovations, but I believe we need to have a starting point and if only we understood and set ourselves a realistic gain can we then monitor our improvement.

I recently held a couple of putting clinics at Three Rivers Golf Club based around the groups perceived expectations and current practice habits.

By the end of the clinic, each player departed with a number of interesting, motivational drills and skills tests which they could benchmark their progress, which is where Golf Statistics come into the equation.

Going back to my seminar with Mr Mark Broadie, the one surprising statistic which stood out in my mind was “The Tour player on average holes 1.4 putts per 4 round Tournament over 21ft.”

I asked my clients to estimate the number, as you would expect numbers ranged from 8-15 putts so a much higher value.

Mark calculated “The Tour winner of a particular week holes on average 2.4 putts over 21 feet, which is still less than 1 putt per round.”

According to Broadie Adam Scott, who was victorious at Doral a few weeks ago made just two putts over 21 feet, which falls within the expected statistic from a Tournament winner.

This information provides us with the

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knowledge that putts over 20 ft are really not a distance which I would recommend we spend the majority of our practice time or expect to hole for that match play half!

The numbers give us an idea of what exactly we are trying to achieve then we can monitor our improvement and work on specific areas. The other purpose of Golf Statistics is to provide us with the confidence and knowledge of our strengths.

It is surprising that the areas of our game which we feel let us down can actually be one of our strengths!

I provide numerous drills and skills incorporating the following elements where I would like to see the majority of practice centred.

• Aim • Green Reading • Pace of Putt • Technique/ Tempo • Pressure putts • Routine I have spoken to numerous club golfers who when asked the question; How many putts do you “expect” to hole from 8 feet? The response is generally in the region of 80%.

According to the PGA’s Tour ShotLink the average number of putts holed by Tour players from 8ft is approximately 50%, which really surprised the group. This one tiny element of Golf Statistics information can really help to manage your expectations and focus your practice.

The one distance which I now recommend my clients to work on is the 3ft-10ft range, again this golf statistic originates from the incredible research relating to the shots gained figures carried out by Mark in conjunction with the PGA Tour and ShotLink.

I am very grateful to Mark’s who is a Professor at Columbia business school in the States for his on-going support and assistance; learning from the best. Sarah Bennett Sarah can be contacted E: SarahBennettGolf@gMail.com W: SarahBennettGolf.co.uk M: 07719 671 349 for a range of 1-2-1 coaching and her very popular Men’s group lessons which are open for Members and Non.

The perfect place to practice If you hit two buckets of balls a week Have you considered our practice membership NEW TO LITTLE CHANNELS • Range Membership • • £325 per year including VAT • • Unlimited range balls • • Use of putting green • • Use of chipping area • • Use of grass practice area • • Swipe card giving a 10% discount on food and drink •

Little Channels, Pratts Farm Lane West Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PR Please call Michelle 01245 441 056

GolfingGirl group sessions run monthly and are open to Non Members, but early booking is recommended as are the many events on offer.

Email: michelle@channelsestate.co.uk For further information

Why not keep up to date via my Newsletter and journal on SarahBennettGolf.co.uk

www.channelsestate.co.uk - 41 -

The

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

T

he 2016 competition has now truly “tee’ed” off with our first results already in as I write.I was proud to represent my home club, The Notleys, in the very first match of the 2016 competition.

The Notleys team and club were very welcoming to our away competitors West Essex, and managed a 7 and 2 result to become the “clubhouse leaders” of Division A. Sadly I was personally one of the 2! However, as we start the 2016 competition, and as JC Chairman I could not have wished for any better feedback and “Jubilee Cup Spirit” between competitors. The losing captain from West Essex Eric was extremely gracious to Daz Liversidge, Notleys Captain, the day after the match, emailing “Just a line to congratulate The Notleys on a well-deserved win yesterday and to thank you and your Club for the way you welcomed West Essex, and for your hospitality.

All of our guys have mentioned the excellent spirit with which each match was played and I wish you well for your future fixtures.”

Absolutely the spirit of our competition being shown here! The Notleys victorious team are pictured here too.

I suspect that when you are reading this, all of the Round 1 matches will have been played - check out full scope of Round 1 results at www.jubileecup.com/matches2016/draw1.html However, some great results already posted including a 6 and 3 victory of Garon Park over Royal Epping Forest, plus a 6.5 win for Burnham on Crouch over, relative Jubilee newcomers. Clacton on Sea’s 2.5 points. Also two further (relative) newcomers faced each other in Division H, with Manor of Groves defeating Loughton 5 and 4 Clearly very early days but some very good results posted also contributing to the Order of Merits for 2016. 2016 new entrant Manor of Groves leads the singles with Chris Leeds’ two-hole difference over Notley’s Martin Schacht and Manor of Groves Gary Jones. Whilst in the Doubles OoM two players from Burnham on Crouch, rule the roost, Ray Cotter and Graeme Davies with just a single hole difference over a number of Garon Park players. Well done all!

Well done everyone, and “play well” to all the remaining participants in Round 1. Round 2 matches are below, and due to complete by 8th May 2016 – keep tracking those results by our website specific to Round Two at www.jubileecup.com/matches2016/draw2.html The full set of Divisions making up the 2016 competition, and all the individual matches drawn are detailed on the Jubilee Cup website for you perusal. Here you can click down to each of the four rounds www.jubileecup.com/matches2016/draw2016.html The second round of the competition drawn is also shown in full on the opposite page:

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2nd Round Matches to be played by 8th of May 2016 Div A Div A Div A Div B Div B Div B Div C Div C Div C Div D Div D Div D Div E Div E Div E Div F Div F Div F Div G Div G Div G Div H Div H Div H

Ilford West Essex Benton Hall Abridge Three Rivers Stoke by Nayland Channels Playgolf Colchester Woolston Manor Royal Epping Forest Thorpe Hall Colne Valley Maldon Warley Park Warren (The) Harwich & Dovercourt Rochford Hundred Clacton on Sea Langdon Hills Colchester Forrester Park Ballards Gore Essex (The) Manor of Groves

v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v v

Crondon Park South Essex Notleys (The) Chigwell Mardyke Valley Top Meadow GC Brentwood GC Gosfield Lakes Epping Stock Brook Manor Garon Park Stapleford Abbotts Five Lakes Rayleigh Club (The) Maldon Wanstead Burnham On Crouch Harwich & Dovercourt Regiment Way Burstead (The) Langdon Hills Bentley Loughton Ballards Gore

All the best for the Season, and looking forward to a great Jubilee Cup in 2016.

Best regards Phil - 43 -

Essex County News email: info@essexgolfer.com

www.essexgolfunion.org

County Team Friendly for the David Hall Trophy

E SS E X v C A M BRI DGE SH I RE Braintree Golf Club â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sunday 6th March 2016 FOURSOMES ESSEX Points Andy May & Mitchel Sarling 1 Elliott Oxlade & Alasdair Plumb 1 Callum Pipe 1 Callum Pipe 1 Jamie Richards & Jordan Wallace 1 Jay Beisser & John Hanrahan 1 Total Foursomes 6

Score 6&4 2&1 1up 4&2 4&2 3&2

Points 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

CAMBRIDGESHIRE Paul Hodgkin & Ed Dimambro Owen Davies & Russell Giblett Martin Hollands Aron Kumar Owen Meads & Luke Ryan Jason Evans & David Marris

SINGLES Mitchel Sarling Elliott Oxlade Andy May Callum Pipe Jamie Richards Ryan Tattan Alasdair Plumb Jordan Wallace Jay Beisser John Hanrahan Total Singles Total Foursomes MATCH TOTAL

0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 8 3 14

3&2 5&4 1up 1up 3&2 2&1 3&2 2&1 4&2 3&2

1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 2 2

Owen Davies Russell Giblett Luke Ryan Ed Dimambro Aron Kumar Owen Meads David Morris Martin Hollands Jason Evans Paul Hodgkin

Callum Pipe driving off the first tee watched by the Essex and Cambridgeshire team captains.

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Essex County News email: info@essexgolfer.com

www.essexgolfunion.org

Jamie Richards, Jordan Wallace, Elliott Oxlade, Jay Beisser, John Hanrahan, Mitchel Sarling, Callum Pipe, Alasdair Plumb and Andy May.

MATCH REPORT Essex Played Cambridgeshire in the first County Trials friendly of the year at Braintree Golf Club for the David Hall Memorial Trophy. On a very cold day the Course was presented in fine condition with fast running greens that were specifically “ironed” for this event.

Essex produced a resounding victory set up by a strong morning foursome’s session enabling Essex to go into the afternoon singles with a 6-0 lead. Star performers were Andy May and Mitchel Sarling with a 6&4 victory in the top foursomes match.

The afternoon singles proved to be much closer than the final score suggested with many of the matches in the balance until well into the back nine. There were notable performances from Elliott Oxlade winning 5&4 and Jay Beisser winning 4&2 however praise must go to Ryan Tattan who won five consecutive holes to win his match 2&1 and Callum Pipe who prevailed in a very tough match against one of Cambridgeshires strongest players Ed Dimambro. County debutants Alasdair Plumb, Jamie Richards and Callum Pipe all had fine victories.

Mrs Marion Hall wife of Former Essex County Captain and latterly Cambridshire County Captain the late David Hall and three of her sons joined the teams and County Officials for dinner and Richard Hall presented the trophy to Captain Andy May. ESSEX WERE REPRESENTED ON THIS OCCASION BY:Captain Andy May (Boyce Hill GC), Jay Beisser (The Rayleigh Club), Mitchel Sarling (Boyce Hill GC), Elliott Oxlade (Chelmsford GC), Jordan Wallace (Abridge GC), Jamie Richards (Abridge GC), Alasdair Plumb (Chelmsford), John Hanrahan (Boyce Hill GC), Callum Pipe (Braintree GC) & Ryan Tattan (Chelmsford GC) Report by John Peters County Team Manager

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1996 ESSEX SINCE GOLFE RS OF

The PGA in Essex

Secretary: Colin Reynolds pgainessex@yahoo.co.uk

Tel: 0771 3926 108 www.pga.info

Orsett Better Ball

T

he Better ball event at Orsett was closely contested with three pairs returning a score of 40 stableford points. The winners on countback were Professional Steve Cipa with his partner Eddy Martin who just pipped Professionals Sam Teer and Matt Stables and their amateur partners.

In the individual Professional event there was also a tie, this time between two players, Matt Stables and James Scade who both came in with score of 74 indicating that the conditions were not easy.

Steve Cipa and Eddy Martin.

Toot Hill Pro-Am

Steve Hamblingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team from Braintree.

O

ne of our most popular events, the Toot Hill Pro-Am was sold out long before the closing date and fortunately was blessed with dry weather albeit with a chilly breeze. The golf course, as always, was presented immaculately and the greens were as slick as any that we face in the summer months.

The Professional event was won by Mark Talbott from Thorpe Hall Golf Club with a one over par 71 which was enough to win by one shot from Chris Goddard, Lee Laughlin, David Price and Marc Dodd. This win moved Talbott to within 3 points of Lloyd Kennedy in the Porsche Order of Merit. It promises to be an exciting end to the season with double points available in the last event The Essex Open.

In the Pro-Am the Braintree team led by Professional Steve Hambling took the honours with 80 stableford points by one point from the team led by Matt Stables from North Weald.

Upcoming Events

O

n April 20th we have our last regular event of the season at Braintree and then on 10th/11th May we descend on The Burstead Golf Club in Billericay for Essex Open and the Essex Open Pro-am. Anyone who is interested in putting in a team for the Pro-Am and playing with an Essex Professional please contact the PGA in Essex on the telephone number or e-mail shown above.

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EmPOWER Shoe Leads FootJoy’s Largest Ever Women’s Range

F

PowaKaddy Launches Most Advanced Freeway Trolley Range

B

unker Mentality one of Europe’s most fashionable golf clothing brands has headlined their new SS2016 season collection with two very exciting new styles which they believe, yet again, shows their leadership of golf fashion.

The market-leading electric trolley brand, PowaKaddy, has built on the great success of its award-winning Freeway range with a stunning line-up of new models for 2016, boasting the best in engineering, battery systems and trolley design.

Encompassing the flagship FW7S, sleek FW5 and stunning FW3, the new Freeway range offers the ultimate in precision engineering thanks to a high-performance chassis, incredibly efficient transmission and unrivalled folding efficiency.

All three models are powered by PowaKaddy Lithium batteries which utilise the latest NCM Lithium technology and offer 20% more staying power out on the course. The 18 hole Lithium model continues to offer golfers the slimmest design around, while the unique Plug’n’Play technology remains through popular demand. www.powakaddy.co.uk

ootJoy has launched its biggest and most stylish range of women’s golf shoes, headlined by the stunning emPOWER model favoured by Ladies European Tour star Charley Hull.

Signalling FootJoy’s largest ever investment into the women’s shoes sector, the 2016 range incorporates no fewer than seven models that boast an array of different styles and vibrant colours designed to appeal to the full spectrum of female golfers. Three separate families sit within the new exciting line-up – with a ‘Fun’ category bolstered by the emPOWER and enJoy models, a ‘Function’ line encompassing emBODY, eMerge and D.N.A. shoes, and a ‘Fashion’ range featuring classy Tailored and Casual Collections.

The spikeless emPOWER shoe, which has already been put into play by the 2015 Ladies European Tour Rookie of the Year and Solheim Cup star, Hull. Designed with bold athletic styling, emPOWER offers a sensationally comfortable, eye-catching option for women golfers who demand the very highest in performance levels.

The emPOWER’s distinctive look begins with its colour-splashed BreathEasy™ sports mesh that delivers premium breathability and keeps the golfer’s foot cool throughout the day, whether wearing out on the course or in the clubhouse after the round. There are five different colour options on offer, including the standout Navy/Plum model with Boa, and each shoe comes with a one-year limited waterproof warranty.

And, in delivering superior grip out on the course, FootJoy has also integrated MaxGrip™ traction pods into the shoe’s outsole to help golfers make more stable swings in a wider range of weather conditions on a variety of terrains. www.footjoy.co.uk

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TomTom Golfer 2 Drives a Golferâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Game to the Next Level

Titleist Kicks Off 2016 Season with Loyalty Reward Programme

T

T

o begin the 2016 golfing season, Titleist is rewarding all golfers who trust the superior performance of Pro V1 & Pro V1x golf balls.

Running until 15th April 2016, Titleist is rewarding those golfers who purchase three dozen or more Pro V1 or Pro V1x golf balls with one dozen free, as well as providing the opportunity to individualise these with free personalisation on all dozens.

The Pro V1 & Pro V1x line has led the way across all levels of the game for decades, with the latest generation continuing to as the #1 golf ball at all levels of the game. In 2016, the Pro V1 & Pro V1x has already been put into play by 4,110 players across worldwide professional tours, more than six times the nearest competitor. This dominance at the highest level has led to an impressive 34 professional wins globally so far this year, including notable triumphs for Rickie Fowler, Bubba Watson and Adam Scott.

Pro V1 & Pro V1x golf balls feature a patented thermoset urethane elastomer cover to deliver more short game spin and feel, as well as a softer feel, while maintaining exceptional distance, flight characteristics and best-in-class durability.

Not only does this give the chance to stock up on the #1 ball in golf ahead of the season, golfers are also given the chance to put their stamp on every one, with the option to personalise their Pro V1 & Pro V1x golf balls. With a choice of red or black ink and three lines of 17 individual characters, there is a huge array of options to make their order their own.

All orders must be placed with any authorised Titleist golf ball retailer before 15th April 2016.

So donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss out on this chance to stock up early on the best performing, most trusted and most consistent golf balls in the game. www.titleist.co.uk

omTom today announces the ultra-slim TomTom Golfer 2, a GPS Watch designed to help golfers improve their game by using automatic shot detection to give detailed postround analysis.

Eliminating uncertainty by measuring distances to greens and hazards the TomTom Golfer 2 uses automatic shot detection to help golfers understand their distance potential. They can see distances for drives and approach shots at-a-glance and then analyse their strokes in TomTom MySports after the game. The auto scorecard tracks the score to make it easy for a golfer to see what is working in their game, and what improvements can be made.

The ultimate round feature combines the best holes from a course that has been played regularly to demonstrate what a best potential round could look like. The TomTom MySports post-game analysis gives insights into shot patterns and greens in regulation. Rounds can be studied hole-by-hole in order to build on your strengths and improve your weaknesses.

The TomTom Golfer 2 uses graphics to easily visualise the best approach to the green, giving precise distances to front and back of the hazards on over 40K* courses worldwide.

Sleek, lightweight, water-resistant and durable for long-lasting comfort the TomTom Golfer 2 is designed to be worn both on and off the course.

It will be available in May. *Calculation includes all combinations of golf courses at multi-course facilities. www.tomtom.com

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Hole19 Launches the ‘TripAdvisor for Golf ’

I

n a first for the golf industry, Hole19, the fastest growing digital brand in golf, has launched Course Profiles, allowing its 800,000 golfers to discover new courses to play on and providing them with useful information by interfacing them directly with almost 40,000 golf courses worldwide.

The Course Profiles feature within the popular app, connects courses to golfers and vice-versa, even when golfers are off the course. This means golfers will be able to discover a new venue to play on and interact with the course of their choice, for example checking the weather forecast, directly calling the course, or writing verified reviews and ratings after playing a round, all from within the app.

Capitalising on the growth in mobile usage of today’s millennial generation of golfers, all of the courses featured now have a platform to directly engage with a captive and ever-growing number of golfers, particularly in the millennial age group (18-34). This will provide golf courses with useful business insights, generally hard to come by when an increasing number of golfers are casual players and not members.

The Course Profiles feature comes after Hole19 launched its in-app social platform in September 2015 to allow golfers to connect with each other, compare performance and engage with their golf buddies through interactive text, picture or video posts.

Every one of the nearly 40,000 courses on Hole19, which represent more than 95% of the world’s golf courses, will feature for free. This entry-level ‘Starter Plan’ offers each course a brief description, community photos, contact information, leaderboards, directions and local weather.

Hole19, which assists players on the golf course with GPS distances, hole map imagery, stat tracking, and more, has now amassed over 800,000 users around the world. It has users and courses in over 154 countries spanning 14 languages with the largest number of users coming from USA, UK, Germany, Canada and Sweden.

Hole19 is a free to download app and is available on iOS, Android, Apple Watch and Android Wear. www.hole19golf.com

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Lee Porter, the PGA Professional attached to Hylands Golf Complex in Chelmsford, has been voted Clubmaker of the Year by the Golf Clubmakers Association in the UK. Lee now ranks in the top ten custom-fit clubmakers throughout Europe.

No wonder he counts 8 touring golf pros as customers, including the ever popular local Pro, Robbie Coles.

When High Launch and Low Spin Can Go Seriously Wrong…

P

retty much everybody wants to hit their driver further, in fact for many it is their only golfing goal. Shame really as it’s such a small part of the game but that’s another story ...

Ok, so you take a look on the internet and you use the search term ‘How to hit your driver further’ and what comes up? High launch with low spin – but what exactly is it? Well, basically to hit the ball further you need to launch the shot higher off the club face and then reduce the backspin on the ball which in turn makes the golf ball travel further through the air. This is a perfectly true statement, to the point that it is hard to argue with it. But, this is not always a real world scenario – what happens if the golfer is not technically good enough to produce this holy grail of distance?

So, now for the bad news – very few golfers are. Rory is good at it and so is Jason Day but as for a club golfer – I very much doubt it.

To achieve this ball flight the players impact has to be very good – centre strike, upward angle of attack and good face angle (amongst other things) are required for this. So how does a ‘normal’ golfer hit it further? So, centre strike is key but also a flight that gives the player a good angle of

descent (the angle the ball hits the ground at) because the first bounce is critical to the club golfer.

If you can get the golf ball’s first bounce jumping up you will hit the ball further. That's not to say you want to hit the ball lower but hitting the ball too high will produce a steeper landing angle and less roll. No doubt you will probably carry the ball further with the higher flight but your total distance will be severely lacking – and let’s face it, we are only interested in total distance.

For many trying to hit their driver further is based around trying to swing harder and faster but never forget you have around 25 yards difference between a well flighted shot and one that is either too high or too low. Must be easier than screwing yourself into the ground trying to find a bit of extra yardage?

Too many times I see it, golfers looking for distance but going about it totally the wrong way – look at the height of your best drives and remember what they look like, All the answers are there, you don’t need a fancy launch monitor to tell you that one.

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Vicki Cumberworth has been in the fitness industry coming up to 10 years, working with golfers since 2007 after completing a challenging course in California to become a golf Biomechanic. Vicki has worked with numerous golfers including European Tour Player Dale Whitnell, Gary Carter, Golf Pro at Crowne Plaza Five Lakes and Will Boniface to name but a few. Vicki advises clients on how to improve their golf swing and eradicate faults through flexibility/core/posture while also working on strength and conditioning.

Vicki is based at Crowne Plaza Five Lakes and can be contacted by email on vickipt@hotmail.co.uk or Tel 07921 075 212 web www.vickipt.com

RESISTANCE VS I

CARDIO

hear on a very regular basis from golfers that they should be doing more cardio and I see too many golfers in the gym on the cross trainer, rower and treadmill for hours on end. For me this is a complete waste of precious training time and practice time!

Most golfers are getting a fair bit of cardio from the actual golf course and when they are not 20 minutes of interval training 2 times a week is sufficient for fitness and stamina. The rest of the gym time should be spent in the weights/mat area room developing postural endurance, core and strength and stability into power.

Resistance work coupled with flexibility, posture and core work builds a strong, stable unit to play golf, in turn producing a much better golfer. No resistance training and just cardio in my experience produces a very injury prone sportsman with weak muscles and a pretty exhausted body. There is a place for cardio ... high intensity interval training, in the form of sprints or interval training on the rower, stepper,

cross trainer.

When resistance training try to stick to big functional movement patterns for optimal functional carryover. For example, squat, lunge, push, pull and twist. Include all these movements and you will see your golf improve tremendously.

Change your cardio to interval training ... try rowing 2mins moderate pace/level then 1minute as hard and fast as you can go and repeat pattern for 20minutes max.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect time to hit the gym and start practicing your functional movement patterns and interval training with the weather so bad, seek out a good personal trainer and get going!

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Crowne Plaza Invitational - Members Golf Day ‘Clive Wins the Crowne Plaza Cup’

Charlie Powell, Les Powell, Gary Carter PGA professional at the Resort, Nige Popper club Captain, winner of the Crowne Plaza trophy Clive Weir and ladies prize winner, Sue Gee.

A

t the beginning of each season, Crowne Plaza Resort Colchester home of Five Lakes Golf Club holds a golf competition on the Lakes course for all the members of the golf club, which is followed by lunch and prize giving at the hotel.

Open to all 7 and 5-day members, including Gents, Ladies and Juniors.

The ladies prize was won by Sue Gee with 31 points with Carole Lewis following with a respectable 28 points.

The gent’s and overall competition for the trophy was a much more competitive affair, Richard Hardy - King 38 points and Brian Earey 39 points were just outside the main prizes.

Third place went to Charlie Powell with 40 points 19 on his back nine holes losing out to his father Les, taking second prize on the same score with 22 on his back nine holes. Winner and holder of the Crowne Plaza Trophy for 2016 is Clive Weir with a very credible 42 points.

Lee Wins The Putter E

Lee Stafford receiving the Hunsdon Spring Putter Trophy from Club Captain Nigel Popper.

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aster Sunday saw Five Lakes hold this stroke play competition.

With storm ‘Kate’ on her way a restricted field turn up to play in the Hunsdon Spring Putter on the Lakes course.

Two players returned nett 74s in the testing conditions, Richard Hardy-King (14) and Frank Taylor (16), followed by Dave Chignell (12) nett 73 and Tom Arrowsmith (8) also shooting a nett 73 but claiming the scratch prize with gross 81.

Third place went to the improving Charlie Powell (13) with a nett 68, second slot went to Clive Taylor (15) with a nett 67; however, with an incredible nett 65 was Lee Stafford (25) claiming the Hunsdon Spring Putter!

Neil and Frank Ace the Final Round to Win the Winter League

T

he final round of Five Lakes Winter league took place on the championship Lakes course Sunday 13th March.

Played over 6 rounds with the best 5 scores to count, only losing one round to the weather which was played on an allotted spare day the full 6 rounds were completed.

With the golf course, now showing signs of recovery from the winter’s deluges the final round showed some good scoring.

Two groups scored 39 points, Barry Boniface and Peter Dunnet along with overall contenders Phil Robson and Graham Doherty. 3rd place went to Captain Nigel Popper and Richard Hardy-King with 41 points the final two places decided on count back both with 43 points, even though a magnificent ace (hole in one) was scored by Neil Shinwell in his partnership with Frank Taylor were pushed into second place by eventual winners of the 6th round Andy Clover and Matt Ponder scoring 24 points on their back nine holes.

Overall fourth place went to Charlie Powell and Joe Hart with 196 points. Third place went to Clive Taylor and Dave Chignall on the same score with a better last round; the final two places were decided on the final round with Neil Shinwell's 'Ace' on the 16th par 3 being the deciding factor.

Leaving Phil Robson and Graham Doherty on 203 points to take second; however, with a magnificent 209 points from their best 5 scores Neil Shinwell and Frank Taylor are winners of the Perry Trophy for 2016.

Birdie balls were won by Dean Vass, Barry Boniface and Graham Doherty and obviously Neil Shinwell with his hole in Neil Shinwell and Frank Taylor receiving one at the 16th. the Perry Trophy from club Captain

Five Lakes Ladies

Newton Green Supports Sudbury’s Bridge Project

Nigel Popper.

N

ewton Green Golf Club has presented a cheque for £5,100 to Sudbury's Bridge Project.

T

he Five Lakes Golf Club Ladies Section played in the blind pairs nine hole Stableford competition on the 17th March 2016. The winners of this competition were Nancy Seabrook and Di Arnold; in second place were Sue Pearson and Margaret Weir. This competition was followed by a Saree Draping demonstration to raise funds for the Lady Captains’ Charity THE MARY BARRON CLC CH (care for cancer patients) for a new cancer care unit in Colchester.

A great time was held by all that attended the event.

Left to right: Bill Havers (retiring men’s captain), Anesta Newson, the Bridge founder, Sheila Walter (retired ladies captain) and Jo Searle, chief executive of the Bridge.

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Ex Channels Golfer Drives in at Newton Green

L

ee Prentice began his season as men’s captain at Newton Green Golf Club with a 171 yard drive down the first fairway.

He began his golfing career as a founder member of Channels Golf Club in Essex a quarter of a century ago. After moving to Suffolk he joined Stoke-by-Nayland, before sitting back to enjoy informal, society golf for a year year, prior to taking up membership at Newton Green.

Lee Prentice driving in at Newton Geen.

Kevin Drives in at Braintree Golf Club

P

lus Fours, a tweed cap and hickory-shafted clubs saw the clock turned back more than a century when Kevin Smith drove in as the new captain at Braintree Golf Club.

In spring sunshine and in front of more than 100 club members, Kevin struck his drive 164 yards with the hickory driver and replica ball, much to his surprise and the delight of the crowd. “It was one of the finest drives I’ve ever hit. I don’t know where it came from, but I absolutely nailed it,” he said.

“It was something of a surprise as I’d hit a dozen practise shots with the driver a couple of days before, topped about eight and viciously sliced the others no more than 80 yards,” added Kevin.

“Overall it was a brilliant day with superb weather while the theme for the day was a reflection of the start of the club’s 125th Anniversary Year, hence the dress code circa 1891.

“The hickory-shafted driver, which dates back to 1902, and the replica ball were both kindly loaned by the South of England Hickory Golf.”

Prior to the Drive-in, some 104 players

Captain Gary Mills, New Captain Kevin Smith and Vice Captain Brian Day.

competed in the annual betterball pairs match play competition with the Vice Captain Brian Day’s team gaining a resounding victory over Captain Kevin’s squad.

“Best of all, we raised almost £1,000 for my charity PARC, the Play and Resource Centre based in Braintree,” added Kevin.

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Family directors accepting the award: (l to r) Penelope,Viscountess Cobham - Chairman of VisitEngland, Susanna Rendall, SbN Hotel Managing Director, and Robert Rendall, Director.

Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa for Wins Best Business Tourism Venue at 2016 VisitEngland Awards for Excellence

Silver Award

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n Tuesday 8th March, prominent representatives from all walks of the tourism industry in England converged on The Winter Gardens, Blackpool, for a glittering black tie awards dinner in honour of the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

This event celebrates the most prestigious awards in English tourism, bestowing accolades such as B&B/Guest Accommodation of the Year, Access for All Tourism Award, Large Visitor Attraction of the Year and the newly introduced Dog Friendly Business of the Year.

Group Managing Director Susanna Rendall and Director Robert Rendall represented Stoke

by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa, one of the five finalists in the running for the Best Business Tourism Venue award. Competing against worthy finalists, SbN Hotel was thrilled to be presented with the Silver Award for the category!

Commenting on the Award, Sally Balcombe, CEO of VisitBritain and VisitEngland said ‘We received hundreds of applications of an extremely high quality this year. Winning a Silver is therefore a considerable achievement and one of the highest accolades for excellence in tourism which VisitEngland can bestow. I warmly congratulate Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa’.

Speaking on behalf of SbN Hotel, Director Robert Rendall said ‘We are delighted to be recognised by Visit England as one of the very best business tourism venues in England. In addition to our really great facilities, we feel that our amazing staff make all the difference for our business customers, large or small.’

Facebook: www.facebook.com/SbNHotel Twitter: @SbNHotel www.stokebynayland.com

The category placements are reflected below: Gold Award – Crewe Hall (QHotels) Silver Award – Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa Bronze Award – Dartington Hall Highly Commended – Seaham Hall Hotel and Highbullen Hotel Golf and Country Club - 56 -

Mail on Sunday Win for Stoke by Nayland

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fter a bye in Round 1 Stoke by Nayland ladies were drawn at home, to The Essex Golf Club in Round 2 of the national Mail on Sunday Classic competition.

Both Captains, conscious of the wet-weather conditions, left the match to be played at almost the latest time possible. However heavy rain two days before the selected date meant a pouring over of the rules, with the possibility of the match being moved to the away club.

However, on the day the sun shone and the green keepers were able to put all the flags back on main greens. Wet conditions still made it difficult for both teams, but the match was able to be played within the deadline.

Stoke by Nayland were led out by Sue Latham who played really well and secured the first point with a 5/4 victory.

Margaret Bentley came up against an in-form Lynda Dunbar, from The Essex, and the match was all square.

After going three down, third player out, Bev Thompson fought back to just one down at the turn. Wins at the tenth, eleventh and fifteenth

Sue Latham, Margaret Bentley, Bev Thompson, Sue Spittlehouse and Sybil Paton.

holes saw her go two up, but her opponent raised her game again to win sixteen and seventeen before the match finished all square.

Then came news from the course that Sue Spittlehouse and Sybil Paton had won, 2/1 and 4/3 respectively.

So the final result of 3 ½ - 1 ½ meant that Stoke by Nayland are in the draw for the third round of the competition.

Stoke by Nayland Club Captain’s Charity 2015

From left: Sarah Green-Director of Income Generation, Chloe Winter-Corporate Fund Raising Manager, Julian Lamb - 2015 Club Captain Stoke-by-Nayland Golf Club, Eileen Hands-2015 Lady Captain Stoke-by-Nayland Golf Club, Jo Little of sponsor Handelsbanken.

J

ulian Lamb, 2015 Captain of Stoke by Nayland Golf Club, as well as his Lady Captain Eileen Hands, and Jo Little of sponsor Handelsbanken presented the St Helena Hospice with a cheque for

£9868.86. It was the money raised during his Captains Year, Julian was keen to thank all the club’s members, sponsors and dedicated staff that helped him raise such a staggering amount of money!

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Ladies Easter Meeting at Stoke by Nayland From left: Lady Captain Betty Cox.Winning team: Debbie Howlett, Sue Spittlehouse and Janet Hodge.

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hursday, 24th March proved to be a dry day for the ladies to play their 18 holes Easter Competition on the Gainsborough course. Half the field started on the 1st and half on the 10th.

Following their golf the ladies enjoyed a chat and

prize-giving in the Gallery bar where Lady Captain Betty Cox handed out prizes for first, second and third places overall and the best front and back 9.

S

toke by Nayland golfers celebrated St Patrick’s Day with a team competition, which attracted a big field of twenty seven teams, with four players in each team.

In first place, Les Norman, John Partridge, Alan Austin and Peter Robins amassed a brilliant 128 points to win on countback. The first three teams all had the same score.

There were also prizes for nearest the pin on all par, three holes. There was also a wellstocked half way hut for refreshments.

1st Les Norman, John Partridge, Alan Austin, Peter Robins – 128 points ocb 2nd Tim Kingsley, Norman Davidson, Bob Queminet, Alan Hooke – 128 points 3rd David Nixon, Claire Nixon, Sam Nixon, Alex English – 128 points Nearest the Pin: M Foster (3), S Bradshaw (7), A Austin (9), I Collett (11), S Briggs (18).

St Patrick’s Day at Stoke by Nayland - 58 -

Elmstead Cup at Colchester R

oger Wright completed an excellent weekend when despite all the efforts of Storm Katie, the final of the Elmstead Cup was played on a windy Easter Monday afternoon.

With water standing on parts of the course after the previous night’s storm the finalists Wright, playing off four and Andy Smith (6) got off at the pre-arranged time.

The Elmstead Cup played over the Easter weekend signals the real start of Colchester Golf Club’s season. It is the Club’s third oldest competition, first played for in 1920 and is the first boarded competition of the year.

What a weekend it proved to be with the qualifying round on Good Friday being played in spring like weather and although the course played tough with back tees and no run on the fairways the 70 competitors produced some great golf.

With the top eight available players qualifying for the knockout, it was Sam Latta that led the way with an impressive 67 nett from his ten handicap. He was drawn against Wright in the first round; the second group was Stuart Macauley (5) who was drawn against Lewis Barber (5) with Smith being drawn against Guy Lennox (8). The final group was Dave Humberstone (13) against Lionel Keightley (9).

Easter Sunday was semi-final’s day with Wright beating Barber, and Smith getting the better of Humberstone Refereed by Kevin Prince the players, wrapped up well against the weather, and Wright quickly went three up after four holes. Smith eased back to one up at the turn.

The turning point was the 12th, when Wright played a perfect approach for a birdie, and although he lost the 13th, the 14th went his way to put him two up. He went on to win by 4&3.

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Great Year for Joe

Photo shows Mr Dos Santos of “Cancer Research UK” receiving a cheque from Clacton’s 2015 Seniors Captain Joe Middleton with the committee members of Clacton-on-Sea Golf Club’s Seniors Section.

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lacton-on-Sea Golf Club’s 2015 Captain Joe Middleton welcomed Sandro Dos Santos from Cancer Research UK to the Clacton Club to receive a cheque for the sum of £3350.00 that had been collected during Captain Middleton’s year in office, in his presentation speech Captain Middleton said how much he would like to thank Clacton’s seniors section for all their support during his year, on receiving the cheque, Mr Dos Santos outlined the work of the charity and stated his heartfelt thanks for the generously shown by the seniors of Clacton Golf Club.

Clacton Golf Club’s seniors travelled to the delightful Harwich & Dovercourt Golf Club for the away fixture of the 2016 annual match. Captain Tony Burnside advised his team of Doug Nichols, Derek Woodrow, Ray Crossfield, John Crick, Peter Wiggins, Malcolm Pitcher, Dave Aylott, Malcolm Taylor, Dave Mills, Laurie Farrugia, John Fisher, John Stuck, Mick Curwood, Ray Fage and John Wilson all tried their best against a quality Harwich side on a course that is recovering well following the ravages of a very wet winter. Following lunch, Harwich Captain Peter (Jim) Brown officially welcomed the Clacton team to Harwich and hoped that they had all had a good days golf, Clacton Captain Tony Burnside responded stating that his Clacton team had had a most enjoyable day, the course was in good condition, considering the very wet winter, and he congratulated the

Harwich Club’s Head Green keeper on his efforts.

Thanks also went to the chief for an excellent lunch, what he did not enjoy was the result, a 6 1/2 to 1 1/2 win for Harwich.

Hooray For Henry

The winner of the 2016 “Yates Trophy” Henry Goodwin displaying his trophy.

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lacton-on-Sea Golf Club’s Juniors played “The Yates Trophy” which was presented to the club by Mr Steve Yates and won this year by Henry Goodwin with 40 Stableford points, in second place was Wilf Elliott with 35 points and in third place was Katy Yates with 32 points on countback from in fourth place Max Smith also with 32 points.

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John’s Delight J

ohn Beecroft is the winter champion of Woodford Golf Club. In four 18-hole competitions from December to March, the builder prevailed in three of the events to finish up with 150 stableford points, 11 ahead of the runnerup and his regular playing partner, Brian Meggs.

However, there was some consolation for accountant Meggs in that he won the prize for the best three combined scores - a total of 110 points.

The Winter Trophy, played over 36 holes was won by John Mansfield with 73 points, just shading the 2015 club skipper Terry Chisholm by four points.

The Winter Bucket prize went to the 2006 club captain Michael Jones with 44 points.

He edged out Paul Verney by a point.

Conditions in some of the monthly competitions were tough with mud and soggy Beecroft drives off ground being hazards at the with one of his turn of the year but the finish favourite irons. was played in much more

pleasant conditions last month.

Since moving into a house just a few yards from the golf clubhouse a few years ago, Beecroft has taken up the game with a vengeance. He soon shed the novices’ 28 handicap to consistently give the competition secretary headaches as he drove his handicap down to its current 16.

He has represented the club in its winning Forest Cup team last year and is currently progressing in the Mail foursomes event alongside Tony Olley with the pair seeing off a tough West Essex GC partnership by 3&2 in the first round.

A long hitter, Beecroft frequently takes an iron off the tee when opponents are happy to settle for a driver. He also encouraged his wife, Anna Maris, to take up the game and she is now the club’s current lady captain.

The Winter Championship was the idea of club professional Kenny Banks and he organised events to pep up a slack time of the year for competitions.

It went down well with members. It is not an official club competition, so has no effect on current handicaps.

Titleist and Golf Foundation Aim to Bring More Young Players into the Game

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itleist, the #1 ball in golf, has renewed its highly supportive relationship with the Golf Foundation for the next year. The partnership plays a key role in the leading golf charity’s national ‘HSBC Golf Roots’ programme, which makes the benefits of golf available to any young person and helps them to ‘Start, Learn and Stay’ in the sport.

Titleist has been a long-term supporter of the Golf Foundation’s commitment to giving children and young people of different backgrounds and abilities the opportunity to enjoy golf in schools, the community and then through regular play at golf clubs and driving ranges.

For 2016, Titleist will provide golf balls (all bearing the HSBC Golf Roots logo) that will be used in major Golf Foundation promotional events and fundraising activities and also out in the field as the development team spreads the junior grass roots message at golf clubs up and down the country.

HSBC Golf Roots reaches 500,000 youngsters

a year and HSBC Golf Roots Ambassadors include Titleist Pro V1x loyalist Lee Westwood, Solheim Cup winning Captain Alison Nicholas and former European Tour player and respected broadcaster Ken Brown.

Last year, 3,600 junior members were created in England by HSBC Golf Roots. Among the aims by 2018 are to encourage 50,000 youngsters through the gates of a golf club, ultimately creating 10,000 new regular players and 5,000 affiliated junior members. Brendon Pyle added: “I am sure that this great support from Titleist will only help us to reach this ambitious but achievable goal.” www.titleist.co.uk www.golf-foundation.org

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European Tour Launches Travel Club

Albatros Course at Le Golf National.

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laying a round of golf with some of the world’s best players is something most golf fans can only dream about, but those dreams could now be a reality after the European Tour launched its new Travel Club.

In partnership with Golfbreaks.com, The European Tour Travel Club offers unique experiences for golf fans looking to combine breaks away with once-in-a lifetime rounds.

These include the chance to play in the ProAm at a European Tour event, meaning you could be teeing off alongside many of The European Tour’s stars to play a full 18 holes. Pro-Am packages for some of the most prestigious events on The European Tour are now available.

With the Sunday Pins on Monday offer, individuals or groups of friends can book to play on a full tournament course set up the day after an event, giving fans a truly unique taste of what it is like to compete on the European Tour stage for real. Following the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open, for example, golf fans can play the famed Palmer Course with the pin positions the same as they were the day before. A two-night Sunday Pins on Monday package starts from £689.

The European Tour Travel Club also offers travel packages to the European Tour’s network of world-class venues in their Properties portfolio, as well as a host of tournament venues around the world. Whether it’s the 2018 Ryder Cup venue of

Le Golf National in Paris, Spain’s No.1 course PGA Catalunya, or the fabulous Quinta do Lago in Portugal, there is something to appeal to all golf fans.

Customers can book from more than 2,000 golf breaks all over the world at Golfbreaks.com, featuring a true bucket list of venues across the USA, Europe’s sunshine fairways or the classic links of Britain and Ireland.

Keith Pelley, Chief Executive of The European Tour, said: “People are increasingly seeking unique experiences on holiday and golfers are no different.Yes, they want the best courses and great accommodation, but never before have they been able to access our Pro-Am tournaments or play tournament courses on our schedule as part of a European Tour Travel package.”

The European Tour International Schedule – known as ‘The Race to Dubai’ – comprises 48 events on four continents in 2016, taking in some of the world’s most exciting destinations, including Hong Kong, Dubai, Shanghai, Paris, Kuala Lumpur and New Delhi.

Keith Pelley added: “The European Tour has the widest global footprint of any professional golf tour, and now we can integrate a superb booking experience for our unparalleled inventory of golf services and products.” www.europeantourtravelclub.com or call 0845 250 8404

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