Dec/Jan 2015/16

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Me Chri rry stma s and Hap Ne w p y Year to a ll read our ers

DISCOVER MORE

Waterhouse Chelmsford Waterhouse Business Park, Chelmsford CM1 2QX 01245 240555 www.waterhousecars.co.uk

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

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Just what the doctor ordered…

Did you know that playing golf can bring you some impressive health and wellbeing benefits that can help you look and feel at your best. This increasingly popular sport is a powerhouse of all the core ingredients that doctors recommend for health and wellbeing. Here’s how...

Keeps you active

You will use more energy than you might think: playing 18-holes will burn at least 900 calories, take more than 10,000 steps and achieve the 150 minutes of exercise a week recommend by the NHS. Golf also offers all the known weightloss benefits of walking combined with the toning and muscle strengthening that keeps your waistline in check and weight under control.

Natural feel-good factor

Outdoor exercise in a green space can help reduce stress levels, enhance mood and even improve your self-esteem. It’s far easier to stick with outdoor exercise, like golf, because it’s more appealing and fun than an indoor workout. The combination of moderate exercise and swinging your clubs will get your blood pumping and trigger the release of natural mood-enhancing chemicals called endorphins that help you feel happier, reduce stress and help you sleep better.

Continually learning

Golf helps people set targets and achieve them, which can help create positive feelings of accomplishment and achievement.

Chartered physiotherapist Philippa Tindle says

For more information on the health benefits of golf visit getintogolf.org/health

that one of the appeals of golf is the way it challenges you to learn new skills. “Golf is all about learning new movement patterns – which is great for keeping your brain healthy and active,” she says

Improve work-life balance

Juggling work and home life can be tough.

However, if you want to stay happy, healthy and well, it’s important to take time out to do something you enjoy. Golf offers you ‘me time’ that helps recharge your batteries. It is also a great antidote for workers who spend long sedentary hours sitting at a desk. Getting out in the fresh air really can do you the world of good – from feeling happier to helping you sleep better.

It can help you live longer

Golf’s unique combination of outdoor exercise and social interaction can help you live a longer, healthier life. Indeed, playing golf can increase your life expectancy by up to five years, according to a study from the Karolinska Institute, in Sweden. Regular walking, such as the four hours it typically takes to play a round of golf, can also help ward off dementia, help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.

(NOT to be confused with Hartswood)

‘Come and play the course everyone is talking about’

2016 Golf Society Specials *ThESE ARE juST 2 ExAMplES oF WhAT WE cAN oFFER, WE cAN TAIloR To youR REquIREMENTS*

PACKAGE A

EB PACKAG offee with Tea & c

Bacon Roll w ith Tea & cof fee 18 holes Followed By: (Either) ham , Eg Sausage, Mas g & chips, Steak pie, New h & Gravy – potatoes & pe a’s

Breakfast Full English 18 holes

erson ay £30 per p d ri F to y a d n Mo er person u n d a y £37 p m Saturday & S Sunday 11.45a (First Tee Tim

Monday to Fri Saturday & S day £33 per person u n d a y £40 p er person (First Tee Tim e Saturd ay & Sunday

2016 Memberships

11.45am)

Senior SPECIAL Wednesday (60+ Years) Every Weds after 10.30am Bacon Roll with Tea/Coffee

e Saturday &

Our new membership year starts 1st May 2016 (runs to 30th April 2017)

FULL 7 DAY MEMBERSHIP - £1,100.00* (Pay £100 Deposit and get March & April FREE, we deduct the £100 off your membership when it becomes due on 1st May)

SENIOR 5 DAY MEMBERSHIP - £715.00* *All memberships are subject to £20 EGU Fees) For more information on Membership packages please call or email us

£15.00 per person

WINT

ENuaryFEES E R G R E T IN W Available to 29th Febr riday £15 Monday to F unday £20 Saturday & S

ER

Availab

le from 1pm Monda y to F r iday £ Saturd 10 ay & S unday £15

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

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 D ec

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WINTER Special

16

18 Holes of Golf & Curry and Rice

£25

Me Chri rry stma s and Happ y New Year to a ll read our ers

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Waterhouse Chelmsford

Monday to Friday Please call 01245 441

Waterhouse Business Park, Chelmsford CM1 2QX 01245 240555 www.waterhousecars.co.uk

www.essexgolfer.com

to reserve your tee time

ESSEX GOLFER MAGAZINE – SERVING THE GOLFERS OF ESSEX SINCE 1996

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Essex Golfer Magazine is available free of charge both in print* or as a digital document. To 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, Belsteads Farm Lane Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT www.channelsestate.co.uk E: michelle@channelsestate.co.uk -4-

COLCHESTER

F

irstly many thanks to all those who supported our 21st Anniversary. It was a great success for us and judging by the number of customers we saw it was a worthwhile trip for you.

We are now leading up to Christmas and we have many items that would make great presents from as little as £1.99. Clothes, accessories, balls, bags, shoes and many other items will give you plenty of ideas to make your loved ones happy!

Then we have our sale which starts on Sunday 28th December. Already we have some Callaway, Wilson and Cobra woods lined up at 50% off along with half price clothing, shoes and bags.

Finally, With the introduction of our new ‘Skytrak’ club selector we are offering ‘free custom fit’ during January and February. Additionally when you try out a new wood or new irons we will give you a sleeve of Srixon golf balls of your choice! If you then go on to purchase either a wood or set of irons we will give you free a dozen Srixon golf balls worth up to £35!!

Many thanks for your your custom this year and Happy Christmas and a great New Year from Jon, Andy, Andrew, Sue and myself and look to helping you improve your golf in 2016.

Phil

SALE STARTING SUNDAY 28TH DECEMBER DOORS OPEN 9AM -6-

The first personal launch monitor of its kind, SkyTrak is a realistic and real-time golf practice and play system. SkyTrak connects wirelessly to your iPad Air, then accurately captures and displays launch data and ball flight as soon as you hit the ball. You’ll see the ball fly and receive instant feedback on every shot.

ACCURATE AND AFFORDABLE Stay sharp even when you can’t make it to the course. SkyTrak is a fun, yet serious tool designed specifically to help you improve your game.

REALISTIC BALL FLIGHT Get immediate feedback on every shot with instant 3D visualization, powered

by SkyTrak’s advanced flight model and ball spin measurement.

SKYTRAK FEATURES SkyTrak is a revolutionary development in launch monitor technology. It’s a small package with a lot of power. Here are some of the advanced features you’ll find in SkyTrak. n Photometric Launch Monitor n Professional-Grade Accuracy n Robust Set of Measured Parameters n Ball Speed n Launch Angle n Back Spin n Side Spin n Side Angle

NEVADA BOB’S COLCHESTER

FREE

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

COPFORD

B408 J25

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MARKS TEY

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Alex Woodward Named ‘Newcomer Manager of the Year’

T

he secretary manager of Boyce Hill Golf Club in Essex, Alex Woodward, has been named the Golf Club Managers’ Association’s (GCMA) Newcomer Manager of the Year. This prestigious award is part of the GCMA’s Club Management Awards, which took place at the sold out GCMA 2015 Conference at St George’s Park on Monday night.

Woodward, 38, is the first winner of the newlyformed category, which was set up to give recognition to outstanding managers who have made a significant contribution to their clubs in a short timeframe. He was only named manager of Boyce Hill in 2014.

Since then, amongst numerous other achievements he has completely overhauled the communications of the facility, transformed the practice green, put in place new pitching and chipping practice areas, secured a grant from the Woodland Trust to plant more than 100 trees, and acquired funding from the Golf Foundation.

This led to more than 100 people joining the club – a third former members – in 20 months, and a significant increase in bar profits.

GCMA CEO Bob Williams said “Newcomer of the Year was a new category this year, so we weren’t sure what kind of nominations we’d receive, but the standard was incredibly high, with many nominees also being nominated for outright Manager of the Year. We knew there was a pool of

new talent in the industry that should be recognised, and Alex is a fitting winner of the first trophy, so I wouldn’t be surprised to see him on

Alex Woodward – Newcomer of the Year.

the shortlist for the top prize in coming years.”

Alex Woodward replied “I’m honoured to be named GCMA ‘Newcomer Manager of the Year’.

A massive thanks must go to those who helped me along the way, especially all those at Boyce Hill GC whom without this would never have happened. I very much look forward to living up to the recognition the GCMA and other judges have given me in the future.”

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

7 Day Membership

Dec/Jan

£825

£76 a Fourball

15 months for the price of 12

(Mon-Fri-conditions apply)

1st January 2016 to 31st March 2017

Limited spaces available.

All games must be pre booked with the office – 01621 782 282

NH

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

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Winter Golf at Ufford

Park Woodbridge

A warm welcome, superb greens and fine food in the heart of Suffolk. An award winning course where visitors return time and time again.

• No temporary tees • No temporary greens • No trolley bans • Excellent drainage means we are very rarely closed • Rarely any buggy bans • Voted in Todays Golfer’s top 20 winter courses • 2 tier heated driving range for practice all year round • 90 bedroom hotel with health club & spa so you can stay over & really relax 1 night Golf Breaks from £93.50* per person includes dinner, bed & breakfast, use of the Health Club and up to 2 rounds of golf. * Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply.

Essex Golf Club Members If you are a member of a golf club in Essex and your course is closed over the winter, prove you are a member and we will honour you a round of golf at Members Guest rate.

t 0844 847 9405 w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW (Just off the A12) -9-

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

How could you have more

FUN PLAYING in 2016?

T

he end of the year is a natural time to reflect on your year and think what went well and what would you have liked to improve in 2015 .. Here are some key questions to ask yourself.

• Are you a better player than this time last year?

• What worked well for me and what didn't?

• What did you learn about your game and yourself?

• Did you have fun playing golf?

For 2016 have a think about what you can do to make your game more fun... It is a tough game and we can sometimes forget to make it fun. Could you play some different courses, improve an area of your game that is causing you problems, take a trip or play with some knew playing partners, play some different formats, or if you are competitive play in some more challenging competitions? There are a lot so more possibilities to make 2016 a great year on the golf course...

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A friendly welcome awaits you at

Gosfield Lake Golf Club BOOK NOW FOR YOUR 2016 SOCIETY DAY

Winter Societies 2015/16 Prices from £22 for brunch and golf Days tailor made to your requirements Choices available from coffee, bacon rolls, full English breakfast, and lunches 18 holes of golf

Winter Specials 2015/16 Brunch and Green Fee Lakes Course £20 Meadows Course £15

Twilight Golf Contact Pro shop for tee times and best prices

Membership Opportunities Quality Golf at Affordable Prices Ring Office for details

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

Ladies Captains Drive in at Crondon Park

N

icki Watson new ladies captain at Crondon Park Golf Club celebrating her Drive In with some of ladies section, dressed in their onesies.

The Fine Art of the Captain’s Drive-in

T

he fine art of hitting off the tee was displayed

by Anna Maris Beecroft on her drive-in as 2016 Lady Captain of Woodford Golf Club. The director of a London fine art removal company smashed the ball 98 yards when most members had bet on her achieving only half that distance in a sweep on how far she would strike it.

Anna was overjoyed, even though her drive eventually ran into a bush on the left enabling

Anthony Arthur Olley, club captain in 2005, to collect the sweep winnings as he had the distance spot on.

Somewhat nervous on the tee, even though she had been practising early in the morning, she was relieved when the ordeal was over. A few days later she flew to America to attend a conference on fine art shipments.

Anna, who took over from Helen Leggett, lives just a chipping distance from the clubhouse on Sunset Avenue and together with golfing husband John, is a popular member of the club. She assisted materially in organising events during the club’s current 125th anniversary year.

Helen Leggett went out with a bang as past captain since she won the subsequent nine-hole individual stableford competition with 15 points.

Barbara Fitzpatrick, also on 15 points, lost on count-back but had the consolation of lifting the putting prize with 17 putts.

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Winter Special

18 Holes of Golf and Chef Special £25 Midweek £30 Weekend

GOLF • CLUB

Visitors Welcome Twilight from 1.00pm Monday - Friday £18 Saturday - Sunday £22

Contact pro shop for tee time reservations For further information on membership please contact Chris Nunn Director of Golf

01277 631 171

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

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

Winter Golf Offer 1st October 2015 - March 31st 2016

All Day Breakfast + Coffee 18 Holes Golf Available from 9am weekdays – £28 From 10:30 weekends – £33 Clubhouse open from 7am, food served from 8am.

For more information or to book, please call the Pro-Shop on

(01473) 736417 Waldringfield Golf & Leisure Ltd, Newbourn Rd, Woodbridge IP12 4PT Find us on Twitter and Facebook - 13 -

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

Self Massage Techniques S

elf massage techniques are essential for any golfer, much more cost effective as learning these techniques basically means you are your own massage therapist and enables you to release tight muscles and areas much more thoroughly and wherever you are and better still every day!

The most common area i get emails about is the upper back and neck and how to release the knots and tight muscles. My favourite techniques are; THE BACK KNOBBER Ok so this has the worst name possible. This bit of kit is a real favourite of mine to keep the upper back and neck free from knots and pain. It works like a technique called trigger point therapy, i use mine all the time and it travels everywhere with me. It can be used all over the body but my most frequent use is on the upper back.

It can be purchased online from many places ... type in Back Knobber II and it will come up.

Usually with the purchase will come a helpful booklet on how to use too. i personally think this is a must for all golfers that play regularly.

THE FOAM ROLLER

Again this is another bit of kit i highly recommend, its such a simple way to release the muscles in the legs, glutes, hips and calf muscles without having the expense of going to a massage therapist, osteopath etc. There are so many mobilisations you do with the foam roller so i will just discuss 1 and then tell you where to search for others.

A favourite to use with my golfers is a calf mobilisation. Golfers get very tight calf muscles and this can affect everything!! Most people overlook the calf muscles but they play, in my opinion, a huge part in all problems including back pain, glue disfunction and much more.

The best way of learning how to foam roller is to simply type into you tube “foam roller mobilisations for the lower body�. There are some great videos on there in which you can teach yourself to foam roller.

Happy self massage, any questions or any help you further require please contact me, I will be glad to help.

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3 Months Trial Membership Valid 1st February – 1st April 2016 Unlimited golf on both courses ionall Free golf lesson with PGA professional Free guest greenfee voucher

*5 day trial trial i l mem 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

£99 £125 *7 day trial membership

£149

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

200441 for more details

Warley Park Golf Club, Magpie Lane, Little Warley, Essex, CM13 3DX www.warleyparkgc.co.uk

)ULQWRQ *ROI &OXE

$ FO X E IR U D OO D J H V

WINTER GOLFING EXPERIENCE E WITH A DIFFERENC DIFFEREN NCE CE Play at Frinton-on-Sea the only “links type” course in Essex on probably the best winter greens in the re r gion

18 hooles to include the chef’s special luncch at £25 per player £ 0 at weekend £3 Telephone thhe pro shop to book your tee time 01255 682456 Or email petertaaggart@frintongolfclub.coom Offer available now until 31st Marchh 201

)ULQWRQ *ROI &OXE

$ FO X E IR U D OO D J H V

1 The Esplanade, Frinton-on-Sea CO13 9EP www.frintongolfclub.com • T Telephone: elephone: 01255 674618

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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.

Where You Hit the Ball on the Driver Face Really Does Matter.

A

s you are probably aware from some of my previous articles I'm not a great fan of some of the marketing (or playing with words as I call it) that the golf industry offers.

By this I mean that often we are told that a driver face has either 'multiple' or 'huge' sweet spots that will lead to longer straighter drives. In my opinion this is not strictly true due to the shape of the driver face. In the image below you will notice how the face has a radius on it, this can vary depending on the model or manufacturer but in general not by very much.

It's this radius on the face that makes it so important to strike the driver correctly, in fact it's the shape of the face that gives us the Gear Effect that is found on drivers, most fairway woods and hybrids. Gear Effect is there to help us with slightly off centre strikes. A ball struck slightly towards the toe of the driver will result in the ball curving right to left in flight.

Strike the ball towards the heel of the club and the ball will curve to the right.

Think of it like this, a heel strike on a driver with no Gear Effect will fly left whereas a driver that has a radius on the face will curve the ball back to the right - well at least that's the theory!

This is true even if face impact is tested on a swing robot, which has one of the most repeatable swings on the planet (apart from a customer who once told me they had never missed a fairway in their life!) - an off centre hit will impart spin on the ball even if the swing was perfect.

But, this is where it gets interesting. Many Golfers associate a fade with a shorter distance tee shot. This can be the case but its not really to do with the shape of the shot. It's more to do with the area on the face where the ball was struck.

Basically the heel of the golf club (closest to the shaft) is the most 'dead' part of the face. Due to the construction of the face there is hardly any 'trampoline effect' in this area so a heel strike has less ball speed, resulting in a shorter shot. Also, a heel strike can impart more back spin on the ball which leads to a higher weaker flight. Couple this with the reduction in ball speed and you have a very short drive. Š 2015 Lee Porter Golf Solutions

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L AN NGDON HILLS GOLF CLUB >ŽǁĞƌ ƵŶƚŽŶ ZŽĂĚ͕ ƵůƉŚĂŶ͕ ƐƐĞdž͕ ZDϭϰ ϯdz ǁǁǁ͘ŐŽůŇĂŶŐĚŽŶ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ ŝŶĨŽΛŐŽůŇĂŶŐĚŽŶ͘ĐŽ͘

ϬϭϮϲϴ ϱϰϴϰϰϰ DŽŶĚĂLJ ƚŽ dŚƵƌƐĚĂLJ

^ĂƚƵƌĚĂLJ Θ ^ƵŶĚĂLJ

&ŽƵƌ ďĂůů ϭϴ ,ŽůĞƐ ĂŶĚ &Ƶůů ŶŐůŝƐŚ ƌĞĂŬĨĂƐƚ άϭϳ͘ϱϬ ĞĂĐŚ YƵŽƚĞ ĐŽĚĞ 'Dtϰ ^

&ŽƵƌ ďĂůů ĞĨŽƌĞ ϴ͘ϯϬĂŵ ϭϴ ,ŽůĞƐ ƵůƉŚĂŶ Θ ,ŽƌŶĚŽŶ ĐŽƵƌƐĞ άϭϳ͘ϱϬ ĞĂĐŚ YƵŽƚĞ ĐŽĚĞ 't ϰ ^ϭ

DŽŶĚĂLJ ƚŽ &ƌŝĚĂLJ

DŽŶĚĂLJ ƚŽ dŚƵƌƐĚĂLJ

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ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ 'ŽůĨ ĂLJ ĂĐŽŶ ZŽůů Θ ŽīĞĞ ϭϴ ,ŽůĞƐ ;DŝŶ ϴ ƉůĂLJĞƌƐͿ dŚƌĞĞ ĐŽƵƌƐĞ ŚƌŝƐƚŵĂƐ >ƵŶĐŚ άϯϰ͘ϬϬ ĞĂĐŚ YƵŽƚĞ ĐŽĚĞ 'Dtϰ ^

ϭϮ ƉůĂLJĞƌƐ ƉůƵƐͶŽƌŐĂŶŝƐĞƌ͛Ɛ ĨƌĞĞ YƵŽƚĞ ĐŽĚĞ '^K ϭϮ

D D Z^,/W^ s s /> > s &ƌŽŵ άϮϱϬ͘ϬϬͶYƵŽƚĞ 'D D WůĞĂƐĞ ĐĂůů ŽƵƌ ŵĞŵďĞƌƐŚŝƉ ƚĞĂŵ ĨŽƌ ŽƵƌ tŝŶƚĞƌ ĚĞĂůƐ

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 Brian Mathews who recognised the 17th Hole at Playoff Colchester.

To play at Playoff Colchester Call 01206 843 333 www.playgolfcolchester.com - 18 -

“Golf is deceptively simple and endlessly complicated”, Arnold Palmer

FORRESTER PARK GOLF CLUB

TRIAL MEMBERSHIP: 3 MONTHS FOR JUST £150 Three months’ golf membership with all the rights of a full member: * Gain a handicap if you do not have one, by handing in three cards * Play in club competitions if you have a handicap, or have your cards signed * Benefit from a gold ‘loyalty’ card entitling you to 10% oơ clubhouse purchases * Book tee times 7 days in advance online or by phone In addition, if you choose to continue as a 5- or 7-Day member we will deduct £150 from your year’s subscription, giving you

15 MONTHS FOR THE PRICE OF 12 To find out more, please call 01621 891406 or e-mail info@forrester-park.co.uk Oơer price valid until 29th February 2016 Forrester Park, Great Totham, Nr Maldon CM9 8EA ~ www.forrester-park.co.uk

SPOT THE THORPENESS WINTER GOLFER

Is your golf course an unplayable lie in winter?

Take relief at Thorpeness Golf Club & Hotel on Suffolk’s beautiful coast.

Flexible unit based winter golf memberships available.

For more information call 01728 454926 or email proshop@thorpeness.co.uk | www.thorpeness.co.uk - 19 -

Suffolk’s Longest Serving Golf Professional Retires Thorpeness Head Professional Frank Hill has retired after 53 years working in golf

S

Thorpeness Golf Club for the past 20 years. He is the current Captain of the Suffolk PGA (Professional Golfer’s Association) and a former Captain of the PGA East Region.

Frank retired last month and said: “I wouldn’t change a thing about my career and time spent at Thorpeness. I’ve met some fantastic people, made good friends and been lucky enough to play golf at some of the best courses.

My only regret would be not holing more putts and perhaps not retiring sooner.”

Frank, who is originally from Derbyshire, started his career as an assistant professional at Sherwood Forest Golf Club before qualifying and taking Head Professional roles at golf clubs in Surrey and East Anglia.

He finally settled on the Suffolk Coast at Thorpeness Golf Club with its James Braid designed heathland course, member’s club and 36-bedroom golfer’s hotel.

In a long and distinguished playing career Frank won five Frank Hill outside his professional events, including The former Professional’s Essex Open, Essex Professional shop at Thorpeness Championship, The East Anglian Hotel and Golf Club.

Open Championship and the PGA Super Seniors Championship in 2006.

Frank’s contribution to Thorpeness Golf Club was He played in four Open Championships and on recognised at an event held in his honour in the European Seniors Tour, won national honours September by TA Hotel Collection, owners of the and captained the PGA (Professional Golfer’s golf course and hotel, at its Dolphin Inn in Association) in two English regions.

Thorpeness.

Frank, 71, has been Head Professional at uffolk’s longest serving golf professional Frank Hill has retired after a career spanning five decades, six golf clubs and four counties.

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Magnets

The that gave me my

life back PRODUCTS: Excellent quality products made of 100% stainless steel, therefore completely ALLERGY FREE.

TESTIMONIALS: GOLFER “Although sceptical I borrowed a magnetic heart to wear on my hip which was always painful when playing golf. I didn’t think it worked so gave it back but within two days I phoned to order one as I realised it did make a difference.”

Specific SportEX range for all areas of sport – very robust and made of silicon.

• Energetix Magnetic wellness jewellery for your wellbeing.

WRIST PAIN “After two weeks I really thought the sports bracelet wasn’t making a difference but, in fact although it took 2 – 3 weeks, it has really helped.”

KNEES “I had tried everything to relieve the pain in my knees and within a few days of wearing a bracelet I was enjoying a more painless sleep end enjoying my golf.”

• Whilst unable to make claims of a ‘cure’ it is known that wearing a magnet does improve health and well-being. It’s NOT advised to replace conventional medication without consulting your doctor.

Not to be worn when pregnant, wearing a pacemaker or electronic hearing aid.

• Improves blood circulation and separates blood cells.

For information contact:

PAULINE COLLINS Feel Good Magnetics Tel: 01277 233038 Mobile: 07971 027546 Email: paulinethebandit@hotmail.co.uk Webshop: http://feelgoodmagnetics.energetix.tv/

KNOW YOUR GET TO

Amber Heath BSc (Hons) ION, ITEC Diploma in Nutrition and Diet Theory.

Amber is a fully qualified Nutritionist working for Bodysense UK Ltd. Amber also works with England Golf and Essex County Cricket Club, with over 15 years’ experience in both Nutrition to aid Sports Performance, and private clients wishing to improve health and wellbeing through Nutritional Management.

REECE PHILLIPS Reece Phillips is a Professional at The Warren Golf Club and Country Club

Tel: 07801 813 687 / 01245 381 181

www.bodysenseukltd.co.uk

SEASONS GREETINGS!

Favourite golf course you have ever played?

Silkeborg Golf Club in Denmark.

Best course ever!

HAPPY AND HEALTHY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL!

W

rap up and keep well as weather conditions become that bit more brisk and immunity takes a bit of a hit. If sniffles start, get that Vit C and Zinc down you asap, or a regular Sambucol Boost – available from Boots The Chemists or Holland & Barrett. Chewable D3 will also aid immunity and can prevent S.A.D. (Seasonal Adjusted Disorder) and keep your spirits up.

Top up with the good stuff – ensure you consume plenty of the following to supercharge immunity:Citrus (e.g. lemon and ginger tea), Carrots, Tumeric, Papaya, Ginger, Garlic, Pineapple, Protein (to boost amino acids to fight antigens), Wheatgrass, and Berries.

Check out Healthy Chef Natural Immune Boost (www.thehealthychef.com) or NutriAdvanced Immunoblast (Tel. 0800 212 742) to carry you through!

Have a wonderful time this festive season!

Best golfing tip you have ever received?

‘Keep back to the target longer in the transition,’ I think many people try and hit the ball to hard, opening up too quickly with their body from the top. This helps my rhythm and gets the club coming down on a better plane on the way down.

The golfer you admire most?

Alex Noren, idolise his work ethic and the way he plays golf.

Most embarrassing golfing moment?

This season in Czech Republic, waking up 22 minutes before my tee time in 35 degrees and running to the tee with my shoes in my hand.

Which 3 other people would be in your favourite fourball?

Alex Noren, Cristiano Ronaldo and Maria Sharapova.

Best round of golf ever?

-8 at Abridge Golf Club.

How long have you been a PGA professional?

Haven’t done the PGA but I have been professional for 3 years.

What is your favourite meal?

Dessert. Cake! Anything sweet.

What career would you have choosen if not a golf pro?

Formula 1 driver.

Email: reecep_1@hotmail.co.uk www.thewarrenestate.co.uk Tel: 01245 223 258

- 22 -

TWILIGHT UNLIMITED GOLF F AT BELHUS PA PARK

£9.00 midwe w ek week e end From 12.0 0 pm Offer runs between 1st Januar y 201 6 – 29th Februar y 201 6

belhusparkgolfclu ub.co.uk Belhus Park Golf and Country Club | Belhus Park | South Ockendon | Essex RM15 4PX | (01708) 854260 Charit y numbe r : Thurrock Communit y Leisure 1 0 8 01 8 6

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Totally Golf G Where Golfers Come First

Largest Golf SupeerStore in Herts and Esssex To otally diffferent to golf stores LJŽƵ͛ǀĞ ďĞĞŶ ƚŽ ďĞĨŽƌĞ͙͘ Purpose built GC2 sim mulators for hire by individuals, societiees and corporates Mizuno, Ping, Cobra, Callaway, Titleist and Vega Approved Fitting Centre Major stockist of J.Lindeberg, Under Armour and Nike High-end d retaill experiience and service PGA Pro lessons Golf Library and Golf Lounges with SkySports

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The Burstead golf club is a proprietary owned club that carries the values of a traditional members club where visitors and guests are made welcome.

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

7 Day Annual Membership Now Only

£995 Limited available first 25 avoid £150 joining fee.

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Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club 1880

A GREAT OFFER FROM 2nd

NOVEMBER 2015 – 31st MARCH 2016

NOT AVAILABLE BETWEEN 21st DECEMBER 2015 – 3rd JANUARY 2016

MARTELLO COURSE (The 5th Oldest Club in England)

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BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL (48 HOURS MINIMUM NOTICE) MONDAY/FRIDAY (NOT BANK HOLIDAYS) PLEASE BOOK WITH THE GENERAL OFFICE – 01394 286

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GOLF BUGGIES MAY BE AVAILABLE FOR HIRE, BUT ARE SUBJECT TO COURSE CONDITIONS

www.felixstowegolf.co.uk - 25 -

THE RULES OF GOLF The new rules of golf at your fingertips New golf rules have been in force since 1st January 2012; it is therefore high time to get a new rule book for your golf bag.

The best choice is “Golf Rules Quick Reference 2012-2015”. The multi award-winning, ring-bound book has already sold more than a million copies and contains the answers to all the rules questions that commonly arise on the golf course. It is intended to be used while on the course, therefore it has a practical pocket-sized format, uses hard-wearing, water-repellent paper and has a sturdy protective cover.

As every rules situation is illustrated (more than 170 graphics), players can find the right solution straight away. To sum it up, this little gem belongs in every golf bag. £11.95 Tel: 01621 815 577

Order now on online at www.essexgolfer.com - 26 -

- 27 -

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

N

ow that winter is upon us and the run is no longer on the ball, to keep to your maximum distance from the tee you will need to launch the ball higher.

To do this is quite simple, move the ball forwards in your set up whilst still maintaining your weight slightly favouring your back foot.

This will help hit up on the ball and aid a higher launch.

Look forward to seeing you all next year and a very merry Christmas.

Gary

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

- 28 -

‘PROBABLY THE BEST DRAINED COURSE IN ESSEX’

W INTER PACKAGE IN WINTER ALDEBURGH PLAYS AS WELL AS ANY COURSE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM. Built on sandy heathland the quick draining characteristics ensure that there are no temporary greens, no temporary tees, no mats and in fact no preferred lies.

18 HOLES ON OUR MAIN COURSE – 2 BALL GOLF ONLY Followed by soup and sandwiches

Playing Singles (Two’s) £35.00 per player Playing Foursomes £30.00 per player (Bacon sandwiches and coffee optional on arrival £4.50 per player) Available all week, including weekends, after 10.00am (after 11.30am on Tuesdays) from 1 November 2015 to 31 March 2016 Please book in advance by calling the Professional on 01728 453 309 or email at keith.preston@foremostgolf.com BOOKING IS E SSE NTIA L Overnight stays are available at local hotels.

www.aldeburghgolfclub.co.uk - 29 -

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: Taylor Made R11 irons 5-SW in good condition Graphite “M” shafts easy to hit £185. Tel: 07771 621 621. Leigh on Sea. FOR SALE: Taylor Made RBZ Driver (with adjustment tool) (small mark on top) 3 Wood, 5 Wood (Hardly used) all Graphite “M” shafts.

All with headcovers £180 for all 3 woods or £65 each. Tel: 07771 621 621. Leigh on Sea. FOR SALE: Taylor Made RBZ 3 wood Rescue (hardly used) £65 with headcover.

Tel: 07771 621 621. Leigh on Sea. FOR SALE: Ping putter B61 soft insert £45.

Tel: 07771 621 621. Leigh on Sea.

FOR SALE: Golf Balls TITLEIST and NIKE IN BOX OF 10 £ 4.00. If you want the BRAND you play with JUST ASK. Tel: 01702 600 454. Southend.

FOR SALE: Electric Golf Trolley by Powerhouse Golf. incl. 18 hole battery and charger in working order Price: £30.00 Priced to sell need garage space.

Tel: 01277 656 793 (Billericay).

FOR SALE: Mens RAMS full set right handed golf irons, woods 1,3 and 5 with black head covers and blue stand bag reasonable condition £50. Tel: (Southend) 01702 584 527.

FOR SALE: Powakaddy Freeway, charger and battery average condition £50. ovno.

Tel: 07771 621 621. Leigh on Sea.

FOR SALE: JACK NICKLAUS EZ UP HYBRID GOLF CLUBS STEEL SHAFT. SW P 9-8-7-6-5 IRONS PROGEN MALET STYLE PUTTER. ALL OF THESE CLUBS ARE IN PRISTINE CONDITION HAVING BEEN HARDLY USED. PLUS JACK NICKLAUS 3 WOOD IN GOOD CONDITION AND FREE STANDING GOLF BAG.PRICE £90.

HAINAULT ESSEX. 02082 709 028.

FOR SALE: Original brass Ping Anser putter.

Open to offers. Tel: 07771 621 621.

Leigh on Sea.

FOR SALE: Eagle Star Electric Golf trolley with Battery and Charger £45 Tel: 01702 217 688.

FOR SALE: Cobra Fly-ZXL Driver 11.5 degree, Right handed including head cover, good as new with very little use. £110. Tel: 0208 5002 484.

FOR SALE: Golf bag flight coverall with wheels. New/Unused. £25 Tel: 01206 572 577. (Colchester).

FOR SALE: Clic Gear Cart bag Black and Red with hood. Good condition except for worn fabric on one club well. £45.

Tel: 07771 621 621. Leigh on Sea.

- 30 -

Warren Sargent, PGA Professional based at Epping Golf Club and also coach at Essex G&CC. Warren is a Zen Putting Mechanic (A Complete Putting Strategy). Coach to all level of golfer including Touring Pro’s.

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

ARE YOU SPENDING ENOUGH TIME ON YOUR PUTTING AND THAT 99% OF PUTTS HAVE BREAK AND/OR SLOPE? A simple question to everyone is this; What percentage of time do you spend on your putting?

The answer to this question could be a little or nothing at all. However, a recent survey showed that hardly anyone is spending anytime on their putting! In reality most people should be spending at least 30-50% of their practice on putting as that is approximately the amount of shots that they use on the course.

If the title suggests that a majority of putts involve break and slope then when people do practice, why do they practice a straight flat putt and hope that this cures their issues. I would be the first person to suggest that in order to improve your stroke, yes you should do this. In order to improve your putting however requires something totally different!

So what is the difference between your stroke and your putting?

You develop a stroke and you create a strategy for your putting. Developing a natural stroke starts from understanding what your dominant eye is.

Once understood, then you have the basis to develop the stroke. Creating a very good or great strategy takes time to implement.You have to understand that break and slope requires varying strategies, but once this is done, Putting becomes easier to accomplish and poor putting is all but eliminated. We will still miss putts, but you will have a better understanding of why.

So how do we improve?

Routine is at the heart of us improving our strategy. Also, being able to practice it and understanding it for ourselves. How best for us, could be to see it and/or feel it and/or maybe to

hear it. Our eyes can be massively essential in judging line and pace, but equally through our feet which are 60 times more sensitive than our eyes, can be just as effective. Also, some people can hear the ball off the face and going in the hole.

There is no one strategy for all to fit into. It is finding the right strategy for you the individual.

This is the only way we can improve if we find the best and natural way for you to learn and to become the best you can be.

Introducing the ‘ZEN GREEN STAGE’ and how it can benefit you?

On the following pages, is an article on my new putting studio incorporating the ‘ZEN GREEN STAGE’ my latest addition to aid my coaching at The Essex Golf Academy. On this green, I can create different percentage of slopes and scenarios within a 15ft radius of the hole. We can work on why you might miss certain putts and I will help you to understand the correct strategy to help you become confident and capable of putting to the best of your ability. Just remember this point. A lot of people might not be Professional Golfers in the way they hit the ball, but the one area they can be a Professional at, is Putting. It is the biggest leveller in golf.

2016 see’s new rules on using long putters!

To finish, there will be some of you who are thinking what can you do with the new rules starting on the 1st January 2016. I have already said that everyone needs a strategy and there are many ways to help you find a solution that keeps you positive with your putting rather than feeling like you will go back to your old ways. Finding the right solution will help you to enjoy your golf rather than worrying about the possible outcome of not putting well.

A Merry Christmas and a Happy Golfing in 2016 to all my clients and readers of Essex Golfer Magazine.

- 31 -

Official Opening of

“Stan Sargent Putting Studio” at The Essex Golf & Country Club Have you ever putted on a Huxley before? Well, would you like the opportunity to putt on an inside putting facility on a synthetic surface that the slope can be altered?

If the answer is yes, then what has been opened at The Essex will certainly tick this box.

O

n Thursday 19th November, Warren Sargent PGA Professional officially opened this new facility with special guests Paul Curry and Simon Khan former European Tour Winners, doing the honours of cutting the ribbon and spending time on this latest addition to golfers in Essex. It was one of those Autumn days with wind and rain, that made you want to be inside and utilizing such a facility. Warren has worked with both Paul and Simon over the past few years and especially with Simon, which has taken Warren across Britain from Wentworth to Inverness, Spain and also to Dubai in 2013 for the DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah. During these trips, Warren would map the greens where the straight putts would be for the different hole locations, so that on Simon’s yardage chart, he could use this information to help in what the putt was most likely to do on that pin position on any particular green.

This Essex PGA Coach decided how he could help golfers understand how to putt from the various angles and slopes that could not necessarily be achieved on a putting green. The Zen Green Stage which is a hydraulic green, was invented by Nick Middleton and Andy McCaque.

- 32 -

“

”

The Zen green stage is without doubt one of the best indoor putting facilities I’ve seen.

The fact you can work on your stroke and breaking putts while indoors, alongside Warren’s expertise, is only going to benefit your game and scores.

Simon Khan.

“

To improve an individual’s putting stroke, the first things needed are a 1st Class putting surface on which to practice and accurate analysis of the stroke.Warren has created this at the Stan Sargent Putting Studio at The Essex Golf & Country Club. From novice golfers to touring Professionals, Warren has the personality and knowledge to help all.

”

Paul Curry.

Warren Sargent, Paul Curry and Simon Khan.

Warren had worked with both these gentleman at The Scottish Golf Show and London Golf Show, where the Zen Green Stage could be altered into various lies and angles for any golfer wanting to understand how best to improve their putting.

The options are so various. The project started last December, and Warren says ‘It has taken this room a long time to come together for various reasons.

After working at the golf shows on such a great piece of equipment, I wanted to have this facility in Essex that gives golfer’s the opportunity to understand how best to putt. If they can get in control of their putting through developing their stroke, understanding a strategy and that by knowing the putter, they use is correct for them, like any other club, they can become more confident in achieving that when they get onto a green, they are more likely to hole putts than say 3 putt’.

There are lot’s of people Warren would kindly like to thank for their input and the person he thanks more than most was his Father Stan

Sargent. Warren says ‘My father Stan died exactly a year ago to this day. He was a great friend of mine, but we had our moments as well. The room is dedicated to him as Paul Curry called him ‘Seve Sargent’ after the late great golfer, who was amazing on the greens and so was my Dad’.

The ‘Zen Green Stage’ is open to the public and if people would like to try out this new facility, they can contact Warren and get to spend time with him and use this amazing innovation.

Simon Khan.

OFFER FOR READERS TRY THE ZEN GREEN STAGE FOR 1ST HOUR £15 (HALF PRICE). ROOM CAN BE BOOKED IN HALF HOUR/HOUR SLOTS OR LONGER. MUST BE PRE BOOKED BEFORE USING. CAN BE USED BY UPTO 4 PEOPLE AT ONCE. HIRE ROOM AND WARREN FOR £100 - AN INITIAL 2 HOUR SESSION FOR UPTO 4 PEOPLE AND LEARN HOW TO PUTT ON VARIOUS SLOPES AND BREAKS. THIS WILL INCLUDE FULL ANALYSIS OF YOUR PUTTING. £75 FOR AN INDIVIDUAL SESSION! INDIVIDUAL 4 HOUR OFFER - £175 WITH A MONEY BACK GUARANTEE IF PUTTING HAS NOT IMPROVED. CHRISTMAS VOUCHERS AVAILABLE ENTER FREE PRIZE DRAW TO WIN ONE OF THREE 1 HOUR SESSIONS WITH WARREN ON THE ZEN GREEN STAGE. TO ENTER PLEASE EMAIL OR TEXT WARREN. BE IN IT TO WIN IT! - 33 -

Measuring The ‘Golf Actives’ T

he European Tour commissioned market leading sports research company SPORTS MARKETING SURVEYS INC. to undertake an innovative investigation into the UK’s involvement in any form of golf to measure the ‘Golf Actives’.

Traditionally, golf ’s participation measurement has been based on the number of individuals participating in the sport through playing on a full length golf course.

This new research conducted by SPORTS MARKETING SURVEYS INC. extends its boundaries to include elements such as visiting the driving range, a golf simulator, putting greens and playing on a 9 hole course. The research also counts more non-traditional versions of the game such as adventure golf, and playing golf computer games.

When looking at these Golf Actives, the sport sees 9.3 million adults and 1.7 million children having some form of involvement with golf; a total of 11 million participants in the UK. Those playing on a full length course – the traditional barometer – accounts for 3.5M of these Golf Actives.

Tim Hunt, the European Tour’s Marketing Communications Director said of the findings. “It is clear that interest and active involvement in playing the sport is much greater than those outside the sport have believed. The European Tour has seen from those interested in our events, and with the emergence of global golf stars on our Tour, that golf has far more ‘Golf Actives’ than is traditionally reported. Our study with SMS INC. proves that golf is in good health, and Golf Actives

are a much broader demographic in age, gender, and ethnicity than may have been first considered.

We will roll this study out through Europe next year and expect to find similarly positive results.”

Using the broader participation definition, just over a fifth of the UK population had engaged with some form of golf over the last 12 months.

For adults the most popular forms of golf were played on full length courses and driving ranges, while children were most likely to have been to adventure golf.

The appeal of the sport is significantly broader than traditionally reported, and sees a much wider demographic of the game with many more women and younger people being well represented. These new formats that have been incorporated into the Golf Active number are more accessible versions of the game and allow more golf exposure in everyday life. They act as a stimulus to trial, can be completed very quickly, would invariably cost less – but still lead to the Golf Actives being able to embrace the full length course game of golf.

John Bushell, Managing Director of SMS INC. completes the story. “We are convinced that this picture would be replicated across Europe – there are many Golf Actives whose idea of a good golfing experience may be on a golf simulator on a night out with friends, or going to a form of Adventure Golf, but that there are also many golf courses who would embrace and welcome these players to try the game at their venue. Golf can be fun, fast and friendly – it is exciting these results prove this to be the case.”

The research consisted of SPORTS MARKETING SURVEYS INC. conducting 10,050 interviews throughout June/July 2015 to gain a nationally representative sample to study. www.sportsmarketingsurveysinc.com www.europeantour.com

- 34 -

Society, Corporate & Charity Golf Days Valid till the 31st March 2016

B RONZE PAC BRONZE PACKAGE including C&BR and FROM

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OUR O UR W WINTER IN PROMISE TO YOU

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Limited membership available

Call Claire: 01732 701003 Email: golfdays@hever.co.uk www.hever.co.uk

Channels, Pratts Farm Farm Lane East Channels, Belsteads Lane LittleWaltham, Waltham,Chelmsford Chelmsford CM3 Little CM33PT 3PT

T: 01245 441 056 T: 01245 440 005 E: info@channelsce.co.uk

Book your Summer 2016 package by the 30th January and receive a free upgrade to a Full English Breakfast.

Quote “Essex” to receive the upgrade.

www.channelsestate.co.uk www.cliffordsestate.co.uk E: michelle@channelsestate.co.uk h

Hever Castle Golf Club Hever Road, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NP - 35 -

GOLF IN FRANCE

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

MARCH OFFER 2016 pp

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

Wimereux - Belle Dune - Le Touquet Forest SEASONAL OFFER

HOTEL METROPOLE

(May – September)

n n n n

Newly refurbished bar Ideal for golf societies Late Bar and English TV Snooker tables, Pool table, Football table and darts. n Other dates and quotes available for 2016 just ring Rosemary.

£259pp TUNNEL - 2 NGTS DINNER B&B 3 ROUNDS OF GOLF AT THE SAME COMPLEX

Le Touquet or Hardelot

METROPOLE GOLF BREAKS Call Rosemary 01843 860 748 Mobile 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.

- 36 -

WINTER SOCIETY OFFER COFFEE AND BACON BAPS 18 HOLES OF GOLF ONE COURSE MEAL

Call the Pro shop now on

MONDAY-THURSDAY £20 p.p FRIDAY £25 p.p 1ST NOVEMBER TO 31ST MARCH MINIMUM 8 GOLFERS

01277 200441

Warley Park Golf Club, Magpie Lane, Little Warley, Essex, CM13 3DX www.warleyparkgc.co.uk

3 months FREE 15 months for the price of 12

Artisan Members Required at Warley Park Golf Club!

We are currently looking for the following skilled individuals to join our team 1. Artisan Gardener.

2. Artisan Graphic Designer.

If you have the skills and would like to join us, ARTISAN members will benefit from access to the course and facilities 7 days per week, provision for handicaps and admission to all competitions.

Please contact Stuart on

Sudbury’s Golf Club

01277 224 891

Great Value Membership

Warley Park Golf Club, Magpie Lane, Little Warley, CM13 3DX

www.newtongreengolfclub.co.uk

01787 377 217 - 37 -

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

Follow me on Facebook: SarahBennettGolf Twitter: @sbennettgolf

EYE EYE!!

This article follows on from last month where I introduced a simple test to determine your eye dominance when putting.

I

f you are a right-handed player and the test revealed you were right eye dominance, then we label you as “same eye dominance” the same for left-handed golfers.

SAME EYE DOMINANCE So, when setting putt your right eye (right handed golfer) will be focused more towards the back of the golf ball. I am not concerned with the eye line being positioned “over the top” or inside the ball at this stage.

Having been privileged to listen to Dr Craig Farnsworth a few years ago his extensive research indicates the ball position can be more flexible for a golfer with the “same eye dominance” of dominance.

A common fault when coaching putting is a

ball positioned too much towards the right of centre (right handed player) of the stance. This can cause the eyes to become misaligned to the right therefore making it tricky for the golfer to view their target line. Eye alignment at address is very important.

This is when stroke compensations are likely to occur trying to “guide” the putter towards the target, generally all stemming from the alignment issue.

CROSS EYE DOMINANCE You are a “cross eye dominant” golfer which includes all time greats Tiger Woods, Ben Hogan and Jack Nicklaus according to Dr Farnsworth if you are a right handed player with a left eye dominance.

- 38 -

JACK NICKLAUS TOTAL GOLF TECHNIQUES According to Dr Farnsworth it will be more advantageous to play the ball further forward to their target foot as illustrated by Jim McQueen in the book Jack Nicklaus Total Golf Techniques.

This will generally require less head movement to view the target line. Minimal head movement is important as many players swivel their head to view their line which can alter the head and eye line which can affect shoulder alignment. I use the phrase “feel as if you right ear is resting on the pillow” whilst viewing the hole. This way your eyes are viewing the line of the putt rather than moving your body.

Try this over the next month or so and please let me know how you get on.

In the meantime have a lovely Festive break and very Happy Golfing for 2016, Remember those Goals I wrote about!

Sarah Bennett

Why not sign up to my Newsletter and blog to receive the up to date and on- going information regarding Golf Schools abroad, UK School and many more activities during the year. www.SarahBennettGolf.Co.Uk

Taylor’s Honour

T

aylor Carter from Rochford Hundred Golf Club wins the Rochford Sportsman of the Year in the Rochford and Castle Point’s annual Gala Sports Awards at the Mill Arts and Events Centre in Rayleigh.

He won a Shield, Trophy and a cheque.

Taylor who attended the Lee Westwood Academy is dedicated to his sport and is a great role model to the younger members. His long list of golfing achievements is an indication of his commitment to golf and he deserves all the plaudits he receives.

- 39 -

Essex County News

by Neil Silver, Press Officer, Essex Golf Union www.essexgolfunion.org email: info@essexgolfer.com

As we come to the end of 2015 we have little golf to report on but please keep an eye on the website for information on 2016 competitions.

ESSEX GOLF CONFERENCE GROWING GOLF IN ESSEX

Morning speakers with Mike Hart.

Mike Hart had decided that during his time as President he wanted to hold a County Golf Conference to get our Affiliated Clubs together to discuss the declining membership within our clubs and how we can help reverse the trend. Martin Corck from Inspired Exchange kindly gave us free advice on planning our conference and together with Helen Tarttelin and Roger Attrill from the County Golf Partnership, Alan Walker, the Essex Golf Union and the Essex Ladies County Golf Association we held our first Conference on the 18 November 2015 at Langdon Hills Golf Club.

The morning proceedings started with a short video clip from a BBC report at Stoke by Nayland Golf Club. The video included an interview with Naga Munchetty and touched on points that are very relevant to the day’s objectives, to discuss and raise points in the hope of ‘Growing Golf in Essex’. Mike Hart welcomed everyone to the Meeting and explained how strongly he felt that this meeting was needed as we need to work together to solve the problem we face.

The first speaker was Alan Walker, PGA Master Professional, Alan gave a very interesting presentation explaining what he feels golf clubs need to be focusing on in order to bring new golfers into the game and secure them as long term customers by joining the club’s membership.

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Essex County News

by Neil Silver, Press Officer, Essex Golf Union www.essexgolfunion.org email: info@essexgolfer.com

The second speaker was Simon Sheppard, PGA professional and Director of Golf at Bishop Stortford Golf Club, a private Members Club. His presentation highlighted some very detailed changes and alterations he has made over the last five or so years, in order to reach the point at which Bishops Stortford Golf Club is now.

Our last speaker of the morning was Paul Densham , Director of Golf Operations at Essenden Golf Club , his presentation detailed changes and points that the new owners of the proprietary club Essendon, had focused on, in order to alter the type of clientele attracted by its previous owners and to bring the club members up and to change the fortunes of the club around.

All three speakers got a very warm round of applause and after a David Joy CEO England Golf. questions and answers session there was break for lunch.

The afternoon session organised by the Essex Golf Partnership, was a workshop with groups of delegates given a scenario of a golf club and being asked to give ideas on how that fictitious club could improve profit, attract and retain members.

It was very productive session; each table gave their thoughts to the five questions through a spokesperson and ideas were exchanged. Clubs were asked to go back to their clubs and take away something for the day that they can implement or discuss further with their Committees.

The County Partnership are there to help every club with advice and information.

Helen Tarttelin, is our County Development Officer and her contact details are on their website www.essexgolfpartnership.co.uk.

The final part of the conference was presented by David Joy, CEO of England Golf. David covered many different aspects of our game as well as touching upon some points that statistically have been many golf clubs Achilles heel. David’s presentation drove home the importance of a vision and an end goal while also accepting the fact that there are changes that could to be made at most golf clubs in order for them to move forward. He also highlighted the information that is available to clubs on their website and through CLUBHOUSE. The conference was concluded by Mike Hart, once again thanking everybody for attending, the guest speakers and Langdon Hills Golf Club for their hospitality. He said that he was delighted that so many had attended and he asked if everyone would do it again next year, there was a positive response from the floor.

Quote from Bradley Smith, North Weald Golf Club: I would like to say a big thank you to the Essex Golf Union, and especially Mike Hart for organising a very informative and enjoyable day. I would like to think I am forward thinking, and do promote the game to all categories already. However I left the conference yesterday thinking can I do what I am already doing better? and the answer is yes. I also came away with various ideas which we will be slowly introducing to our marketing campaign.

All presentations are available in PDF format on our website.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone at the Essex Golf Union.

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Essex County News

by Neil Silver, Press Officer, Essex Golf Union www.essexgolfunion.org email: info@essexgolfer.com

COUNTY DINNER

James Allan and Mike Hart.

We held our Annual County Dinner at Colne Valley Golf Club on Friday 27 November 2015 and it was a most enjoyable evening.

We had great food and great company. Speeches were made by our main guest Nigel Evans OBE, Chairman of England Golf and Aaron James our speaker and raconteur.

Mike Hart, our President in his speech announced that he was awarding a Player of the Year award and this year he presented it to James Allan (Chelmsford) in honour of his many success this year including winning the Lagonda Trophy, the OOM in the Mena tour (again, he also won last year).

Heraldic Shields were also presented to the winners of the Thornton Challenge Cup (Chelmsford), Leslie F Wood (The Burstead) Seniors Team Challenge (Romford) and the Norman Plum Trophy (Stoke by Nayland).

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Nigel Evans and Mike Hart.

Saffron Walden Continues Renovation with Swan Golf Designs

The perfect place to practice If you hit two buckets of balls a week Have you considered our practice membership NEW TO LITTLE CHANNELS

Saffron Waldon Golf Club with Audley End House in the background.

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et within the Capability Brown designed landscape at Audley End House the golf course at Saffron Walden has always been regarded as one of the finest layouts in East Anglia. The golf club has a strong commitment to maintaining that reputation and, through their long-term association with Swan Golf Designs, continue to make appropriate improvements to the course as part of an ongoing renovation project.

Autumn 2015 saw William Swan work alongside golf course shaper Paul Davies and Saffron Walden’s course manager Ray Goodsall to redesign the greens surrounds of the 2nd and 3rd holes.

The 2nd saw the removal of two fairway bunkers and the refurbishment of the greenside hazards to tighten the approach on this relatively short par-4, whereas the 3rd benefitted from new tees, fairway bunkering, a complete redesign of the green approach and surrounds as well as significant tree works to subtly realign the fairway.

Ray and his team of greenkeepers are now growing-in the freshly laid turf with the new features to be brought into play in the spring. www.swangolfdesigns.com www.swgc.com - 43 -

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

www.channelsestate.co.uk

The PGA in Essex

Secretary: Colin Reynolds pgainessex@yahoo.co.uk

Tel: 0771 3926 108 www.pga.info

New Sponsorship of the Order of Merit

Colin Reynolds with Ivan Howell, Centre Principal, Porsche East London.

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e are delighted to announce that the PGA in Essex Order of Merit for 2015/16 will be sponsored by our three local Porsche Centres, Cambridge, Colchester and East London and they will have a presence at many of our events during the remainder of the season. We are extremely pleased to be associated with such a prestigious brand and look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship.

The Burstead Pro-Am

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full field of 27 teams played at The Burstead Golf Club in reasonable weather for November and the Professional event was won by Mark Davis from Thorndon Park Golf Club with a fine 3 under par 68. This was good enough to take first prize by one shot from James Scade of Ingrebourne Links and by two shots from Lloyd Kennedy from Woolston Manor Golf Club.

The Pro-Am event was won by the team with James Scade and suitably included the sponsor for the event Luke Fuller from Abbey Marble. The winning team score was 87 stableford points - 44 -

The Royal Event

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he inaugural Royal Event was played over 36 holes on the majestic links of Royal Cinque Ports and Royal St. Georges in fine but breezy weather. After the first round the lead was held by James Scade from Ingrebourne Links with a level par round of 71, a creditable performance in the windy conditions. This gave him a one shot lead from Brett Taylor and James Jankowski, in fourth place was Steve Hambling from Braintree Golf Club.

The second day was equally windy and Scade managed to retain the overall lead to take the title with a two over par score of 72. Matching that score on the day were Darren Parker from Maylands Golf and Country Club and Luke Eggleston. Eggleston’s score move him into third place overall, one shot behind Jankowski who

shot a four over score of 74 to finish runner up.

The team event was taken by Professional Marc Dodd from Stapleford Abbotts Golf Club with amateurs Ross Lyons, James Wheatland and Rob Baker

The George Swan Pro-Am The Warren Golf and Country Club

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very large field of Professionals and their amateur partners signed up to play in this event, many as a mark of respect to George Swan who had been seriously ill for some time.Very

sadly, George passed away a few days before the tournament but his family wanted the event to carry on and we pass our condolences to all who knew him.

Despite the first frost of the season, the tournament got under way after a short delay and scoring was very good in the difficult conditions.

Coming in towards the end of the field was James Ruebotham from Welwyn Garden City Golf Club with an excellent score of 4 under par 66 which was good enough to take the title by one shot from Chris Cutchie from Colchester Golf Club. In joint third place with 2 under par 68s were Mark Bishop from Toot Hill Golf Club and Mark Talbott of Thorpe Hall Golf Club which was enough to retain his lead in the Order of Merit.

The Better ball competition was won by Mark Bishop with his amateur partner Will Kirtley with 43 stableford points on countback from Mitch Kierstenson of Penfold Park Golf Club and Jason Spurr.

ESSEX GOLF PROFESSIONALS REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT. PLEASE CONTINUE TO PARTICIPATE IN OUR EVENTS AND ENCOURAGE YOUR FRIENDS TO JOIN US FOR A GREAT DAY OUT. - 45 -

The

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

Season’s Greetings from The Jubilee Cup Committee!

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hings are progressing for the 2016 competition – not quite there just yet, but the full draw and League composition for the 2016 Jubilee Cup competition will be fully published on our website, and in the February edition of Essex Golfer.

On 27th September, at Colne Valley Golf Club, the 2015 Final was won by the Bentley who will be returning in 2016 to seek to win two years in a row. They will be joined by forty-three other clubs to compete for the much coveted Jubilee Cup. The Committee would like to thank all 2015 competing clubs, and also a special mention to Tony and the Essex Golfer team who support us wholeheartedly and present to you all of our news from the competition.

Despite the comp now being officially over two months now, we are still seeing some positive impacts! Specifically, and after a brief ordering of some additional trophies, due to the unprecedented results, Crondon Park’s Jubilee Cup team mates were presented with their Runners Up trophies for the Singles Order of Merit competition: Shown here are Brian English (in white) and Tony Efreme (in Blue) is Crondon’s Jubilee Cup, who shared the position with Jubilee Champion team member Ray Nash from Bentley.

Also pictured below are our other Jubilee Cup Order of Merit winners. Winners of the Singles competition Kevin Kimber from Benton Hall, plus another runner up Benton Hall in the singles. Also Pairs Order of Merit winner David Norris from Bentley, and Runner up Kevin Lovesy from Benton Hall.

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Jubilee Cup 2016 Entry Update

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t is looking like we will have 44 teams in 2016 secured, and that does not include an additional club who had requested entry late and will definitely be in the 2017 competition. Results of draw will be on our website shortly, and reported in February Essex Golfer also after the Christmas break.

I would also ask that 2016 team Captains and Organisers check out our competition rules, especially around eligibility of players, in preparation for next year. With the draw being completed in December, please also begin to arrange your matches as we know the season gets very busy!

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

Best regards Phil - 47 -

Jake Wells with Trophy.

Jake Wells Crowned Coastal Tour 2015 Champion After His Fantastic Final Round

Charley Hatley W ith Cup - 48 -

Tour Juniors.

Kirby Group.

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During this year’s tour, there was a Scratch Order of Merit running and the clear winner by some margin was the popular junior from Colne Valley Thomas Mead.

Colne Valley Cubs were victorious in the younger junior competition on the Kirby course which was also a part of the Day. Other teams from Frinton and Millers Barn competed with Colne Valley proving too strong on the day.

Overall, more than 50 juniors took part in the final event which just proves how popular the tour has become among the junior members of our venue clubs. Our thanks must go to our Sponsors AJS Energy who once again supported the Tour through their generous sponsorship to provide prizes for the events. There will now be a review of the Tour and how it can improve and grow to make for an exciting Tour for 2016.

rinton Golf Club hosted the final round of this year’s Coastal Junior Tour, and a superb score of 41 points saw Jake Wells gain enough points to take the Stableford Order of Merit Title for 2015 from runner up James Meakings from Harwich Golf Club and Colne Valley’s Charley Hatley.

Charley still had plenty to smile about after retaining the Jan Eves Trophy which is awarded for the Girls Order of winner and winning the 1st Coastal Tour Matchplay title, beating Harwich’s Jago Hepburn in the final. This year’s runner up in the girls Order of Merit was Abbie Henshall also from Harwich Golf Club.

Also performing well on during the final event was Reece Balls from Frinton, who returned the best gross score of the day with a score of 74 and taking runner up spot in the stableford event.

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Autumn Meeting The Margery Wray Plate

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he Autumn Meeting this year was held at Benton Hall Golf Club and our thanks go to all the staff who made the day run smoothly.

Also many thanks to the pro Shane Diles for coaching the beginners.

The weather on arrival was pretty awful with very heavy rain forecast for most of the day but the 32 girls were in no way put off and eagerly went out to play and within half an hour the rain cleared and the day turned out to be very pleasant. We had 23 girls for the handicap event and 9 beginners/improvers.

Best Gross Lily Humphreys – Channels

Best Front 9 Rachel Casey – Benton Hall

Aliyah Jamil – Langdon Hills

2nd Harriet Lynch – Thorndon Park

16 Points

Best Back 9 Sophie Wheeler – Orsett

Handicap Results 18 Hole Stableford 1st

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19 Points

Beginners and Improvers 9 Hole Stableford 42 Points

1st

38 Points

2nd Ivy Neary

Erin Wilson

24 Points 23 Points

3rd

Bella Jay – North Weald

37 Points

3rd

Megan Dawson

20 Points

4th

Katy Yates – Clacton on Sea

35 Points

4th

Amy Manders & Zoe Alexander

19 Points

Aliyah Jamil from Langdon Hills, winner of the Autumn Meeting.

Erin Wilson, winner of the beginners competition.

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Junior Golfer of the Year The trophy this year was awarded to 13 year old Lily May Humphreys of Channels for her outstanding achievements, some of which are:Runner up – Essex Ladies County Championship

Thorpe Cup Again this year many girls have played so well and reduced their handicaps by amazing amounts but with a fantastic reduction from 22 to 8 this year, the Thorpe Cup was awarded to Chloe Arthur of Romford Golf Club.

Best Gross – Essex County Junior Championship English Girls U14 Champion East Region Junior U15 Champion Represented England U16 against Switzerland Best Girl U14 Junior Telegraph Championship Played in both County week and the County Finals at Frilford

Chloe Arthur from Romford for the ‘Most Improved Golfer’.

Big Day for Sarah

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Louella Hitchcock presenting Lily May Humphreys of Channels the trophy for 'Golfer of the Year’.

he Five Lakes Ladies Captain's Drive-In was held in November. It was a great event with Sarah Mann, this year's Ladies Captain, putting out and Roma Raymond, our next year’s Captain driving-in.

We are delighted to report that the winners of the competition played after the Drive-in were our Lady Captain, Roma Raymond and Anne Abbes, in 2nd place were Julie Dent and Margaret Weir and in 3rd place Nancy Seabrook and Sandy Peck.

A great start to the year for our Lady Captain, and we all wish her well in her year of office.

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Jason Moss Trophy Photo shows, Jason Moss Trophy winning team Clacton-on-Sea L-R Katy Yates, Henry Goodwin,Wilf Elliott, Max Smith, Mr Bob Moss & Riley Faulkner with their winning driver head covers.

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lacton-on-Sea Golf Club member Mr. Bob Moss hosted “The Jason Moss Trophy,” in memory of this son, Jason Moss, who pasted away at the age of 21. Jason was a fine category 1 golfer at the Clacton Club; Mr Bob Moss welcomed teams of junior golfers from Frinton GC, L Thompson, J Wells, R Forecast, J Partridge, and J Sach. Colchester GC, C James, L Story, D Nicholls, H Hills, O Allison, J Jackson. Millers Barn GC, G Pilgrim, S Bruce, C Forecast, E Simper, J Lazaro. Colne Valley GC, T Mead, M Butler, D

Wallace, M Kill, W Gee. Five Lakes GC,Y Hobbs, T Arrowsmith, T Vass, L Cookson, B Clark, R Ward. Clacton-on-Sea GC, H Goodwin, W Elliott, M Smith, K Yates, R Faulkner. Following a very pleasant mornings team Stableford competition all of the young people sat down to a very good lunch after which Mr Bob Moss thanked all the teams for participating in the remberance match and announced that home advantage was evident as the Clacton Team were the winners of the trophy by four points.

Senior Golfers’ Donation to Prostate Cancer Charity

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he Seniors Section of The Notleys Golf Club have raised £1,286 for Prostate Cancer UK, the charity nominated by the outgoing captain, David Lodge, during his year of office.

Presenting the cheque to David Learmonth from the charity, David Lodge said: “I selected Prostate Cancer UK as I have several friends who have had, or are undergoing treatment for, this illness. There is still much more that needs to be done to raise awareness of prostate cancer, and more research is needed into diagnosis and treatment. We hope our donation will make a contribution towards this work.” He thanked members and others who had helped to raise this sum.

Accepting the cheque on behalf of Prostate Cancer UK, David Learmonth thanked the members of the golf club’s Seniors Section and emphasised the importance of men getting

David Learmonth (centre left) accepting cheque from David Lodge (centre right).

themselves checked for prostate cancer. “Often the cancer does not display any symptoms, but in the majority of cases it can be cured if diagnosed in the early stages.”

For further information, contact David Lodge, Tel: 01376 331234 - 52 -

Poppy Day Classic C

olchester Golf Club held the annual Poppy Day Classic, returning a nett score of 67 and taking first place was Duncan Turner.

With the weekends now being taken over by the winter leagues, it was a refreshing change to play this the last individual weekend competition of the year. With little run on the fairways after the recent rain, it allowed Turner, playing off 14, to show all his skills and despite two double bogeys his golf was still strong enough to take the prime spot.

Following close behind with a nett 68 was Roger Wright (5) who, even though birdying the two par threes on the back nine, saw a bogey on the last deprive him of the top slot. Wright also had the lowest gross of the day with his gross 73.

Poppy Day Classic Winner Duncan Turner.

Peter Robinson (14) took third place on his own with a 69 and Mike Carroll (11) and Adam Lock (7) both returned nett 70’s to complete the group who scored nett par or less.

Sheila’s Charity

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heila Dornan, the ladies’ captain, held her winter competition at Colchester Golf Club with all proceeds from the day going to her charity of the year which is the Cystic Fibrosis Holiday Fund.

The competition started with a forecast of heavy rain after one o’clock hanging over the competitors so the morning starters were likely to have an advantage. Sure enough almost exactly on one o’clock the rains came.

With a turn out of 15 teams of four it was the team of Fiona Prentice, Alison Cordran, Penny fairs and Marilyn Free who survived the weather and returned with a total of 65 points to take first place.

Sixty two points was the next best which was the team of Penny Wellsted, Barbara Lane. Elizabeth Harrison and Janet Austin.

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Five Lakes Drive In T

he new club captain Nigel Popper has returned for a second stint at Five Lakes he was previously Captain in the millennium year 2000.

Nigel intends to build on the strong club atmosphere that exists at Five Lakes and looks forward to working with his vice-captain Ron Dent who has also worked tirelessly for the golf club as junior organiser and an active committee member, the Lady Captain at Five Lakes is Roma Raymond having had a successful year as vicecaptain.

Nigel has been a continuous member of the tournament committee for many years along with his other duties with the Essex Captains whom he will also be Captain in 2016.

Also driving off today was Tom Arrowsmith the new Junior Captain at Five Lakes.

Previous to the Captains drive off the retiring club and junior captains putted out on the 18th hole.

Roger Hyman for the main club and Joe Hart for the juniors.

Danny and Dean Win the Plate

Danny Owen and Dean Vass receiving the Winter Plate from Vice Captain Nigel Popper.

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ive Lakes held the Winter Plate Scramble Saturday 7th November. As the course now starts to play longer due to the winter conditions, some of the scores on the Lakes course reflected this.

Phil Roblin and Steve Ward played well with their 11 shots to return a score of 63.7 to be just

outside the main prizes, 3rd place on count back went to Nigel Popper and Phil Robson (8.3) with the same score, 2nd place went to father and son Jack and Alan Garnett (4.5) with net 62.5.

However, winners of the Winter Plate were Danny Owen and Dean Vass (9) with a 62.

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Presentation at Forrester Park

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ollowing a successful year as Vets Captain, Alan Wilsons was able to present a cheque for £1,659 to his designated charity Essex Air Ambulance. Clair Mitchell thanked Forrester Park Golf Club and their members for their support.

Captains Charity at Braintree Golf Club

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raintree Golf Club Senior’s Captain Jim Rowe so far has raised £2,200 for his chosen charity Prostrate Cancer, the money has been raised through raffles donations etc and the final

amount should be around £2,500. The picture shows, Jim Rowe (on the right) presenting his charity putter to Greg North (on the left) after the charity day.

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S ow Rd, Cold Norton, St Purleigh Essex CM3 6RR

LADIESS OPEN MEETING MONDA AY JUNE 27th 2016 18 HOLEE THREE BALL STABLEFORD TEAMS OF 3 อด BEST 2 SCO ORES ON EACH HOLE COUNT อด FULL HANDICAP ENTRY FEE

HOW TO ENTER Please send completed entry form and cheque to อด Caroline Crispin 36 Latchingdon Rd Cold Norton CM3 6JG

ยฃ99 per team PRICE INCLUDES Tea / coffee & biscuits on arrival Refreshments after 9 holes 2 course meal Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd teams + more

Or email the details to 3riversopen@gm mail.com Tel No. 07885 461170 Further entries forms can be sent on reequest

START TIMES

Cheques should be made payable to: Three Rivers G. C. Ladies Section

To be announced HANDICAPS Competitive handicap only อด maximum 36 Handicap certificate or CDH number required

CLOSING DATE WEDNESDAY 15TH JUNE

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TRGC LADIES OPEN ENTRY FORM PLAYER NAME (First name & surname) PLEASE PRINT Player 1 (contact): Address: -

H/cap

CDH number

HOME CLUB

Email: Tel No: Player 2: Email: Tel No: Player 3: Email: Tel No: -

l se tick if you are happy to receive email notification - 56 -

or please send a stamped address envelope.

The GolfingGirls Continue to Grow

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ne of the most successful independent Ladies Golf programmes in Essex is continuing to grow at a rapid pace despite the well-documented decline in golfers taking up the sport.

GolfingGirl was the brainchild of Sarah Bennett PGA Fellow Professional who set up an on line community for ladies and girls over 6 years ago. This was one of the first National golf platforms solely for Women and Girls which is going from strength to strength. Sarah’s GolfingGirl groups are very popular and held on a regular basis allowing for continuity. One key advantage is Sarah organizes and delivers every event using her unrivalled experience.

There are a number of key areas which I focus upon within my on- going programme with each year an addition is made. One unique advantage I believe is my first-hand experience of the development of girls and Lady’s golf, which can’t be read from a book. The accumulation of her experience has spanned over 32 years, initially a highly successful amateur playing record and Ladies European Tour member for 18 years through to full time, Head Teaching Professional to County and England Head Coach to U18 East Regional players.

Sarah’s most popular event is her Bennett’s Birdies November special, which always attracts a full attendance with a waiting list each year.

“This is the most fun day on a golf course it

gets better and better each year with Sarah’s attention to detail being second to none; it is Sarah’s friendly and caring personality which makes me feel so welcome. She has provided me with the confidence to play with other ladies and motivated me to improve” Sarah has just added a series of ladies and girl’s days, which is available by signing up to her Newsletter and blog via sarahbennettgolf.co.uk which has received excellent feedback. She has written a number of National publications appearing on various media network stations endlessly promoting the game she loves. The passion clearly visible with the hours she spends communicating with her client’s post lessons.

Sarah has started using a specific communication platform which further cements her caring and on- going commitment to her valued clients. This results in her Golf Schools being booked up a year ahead of time, so will be releasing further dates and new adventures for 2016 so don’t miss out.

Sarah spends time to grow the game assisting player’s with disabilities and limitations to enjoy their golf and will be introducing golf to a new organization in the next few weeks.

If you would like to speak to Sarah about joining GolfingGirl, please contact her via her website sarahbennettgolf.co.uk or sarahbennettgolf@gmail.com

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Lynx Launch New Black Cat Irons

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Rory McIlroy Laces Up In The New Nike Lunar Control 4

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t more than 120 mph, Rory McIlroy’s golf swing is one of the most powerful on the professional tour. His ability to attack the ball with velocity while maintaining control over his swing arc requires strength and a strong base. When it all comes together, McIlroy declares, he’s able to “swing within himself.”

This insight played a major role in the development of the Nike Lunar Control 4, which is designed to provide that ultimate base.

“I have been looking forward to wearing this shoe for quite some time. It’s a design I’ve been involved with ever since my first year with Nike,” says McIlroy, who will wear the Nike Lunar Control 4 his upcoming tournament in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. “They give me the confidence needed to maximize power in my swing with reliable control on the ground, especially off the tee.”

Like other Nike Golf designs, the Nike Lunar Control 4 leverages Nike innovations, developed across a variety of sport platforms, to meet McIlroy’s needs – and those of golf athletes at every level of the game. Dynamic Nike Flywire technology provides lateral support in the midfoot, while a new, robust external heel counter helps lock the foot in place through McIlroy’s swing. www.nike.com/nikegolf

ynx, the fastest-growing equipment brand in the UK golf market, has launched its stunning new Black Cat irons with a promise to redefine what is achievable in performance and price point.

With a pedigree stretching back into the 1970s, Lynx’s famous Black Cat marque has always been synonymous with superb styling and outstanding performance.

But Lynx Golf is about to set new benchmarks with its 2016 Black Cat irons, adding a truly exceptional retail price point of under £400 to clubs which ooze quality and are jam-packed with Lynx’s proprietary technology advancements – all of which are pioneered in the UK from its Surrey headquarters.

The new Black Cat irons were unveiled at The Golf Show in Harrogate and produced a stunning reaction. A carefully crafted 2-piece head includes a high-quality maraging steel face, variable face thickness and an Efficient Energy Transfer (EET) system alongside Lynx’s own twin-slot technology, first seen in its premium Boom Boom irons. www.lynxgolf.co.uk

New PING app offers “Golf Workout” feature for Apple Watch

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ING has launched a new app that includes the Golf Workout, an Apple Watch feature engineered to capture and track fitness data, swing tempo and on-course statistics.

The PING app also houses updates to iPING, a putting-improvement tool that attaches to a putter shaft using an iPING Cradle, and works in conjunction with iPhone. In addition, there’s a new PING trivia game created to share the brand’s rich heritage and its focus on innovations that help golfers play their best.

The iPING app is a free download from the App Store. The full Golf Workout experience is available as an in-app purchase at an introductory price of £3.99. www.ping.com

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Stewart Golf announce Platinum Edition R1 Push

Sun Mountain Introduces Lightest Full-Feature Carry Bag

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ritish trolley brand Stewart Golf have released details of a new Platinum Edition of their popular R1 Push trolley.

Production of the R1 Push Platinum Edition will be strictly limited to just 200 trolleys, all built by hand in Great Britain. As well as the elegant platinum colour, the trolley also has a special ‘Platinum Edition’ badge.

CEO Mark Stewart said, “Building our trolleys in Great Britain affords us the flexibility of short production runs. The special platinum colour is being applied here in Gloucestershire by a powder coating specialist.

“The R1 Platinum Edition gives golfers a chance to own a very rare, hand built trolley without having to break the bank. Whilst being a distinctive colour, it’s neutral enough to work with most golf bags.”

Each R1 Push Platinum Edition is supplied with a certificate signed by the technician who built the trolley, detailing its build date and serial number.

The R1 Platinum Edition is on sale now, with deliveries set to begin in December. It is available online and from stockists nationwide, please visit stewartgolf.co.uk for details.

TaylorMade Golf Company Announces Three New Balls

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aylorMade Golf Company, the second most played ball brand on the PGA TOUR with three Tour staff professionals currently in the top ten in the Official World Golf Ranking, has announced the release of its 2016 golf ball lineup, highlighted by the new Tour Preferred X, Tour Preferred and Project (a). With these three models, TaylorMade’s new line-up provides exceptional feel, performance and spin around the greens. The line-up has had immediate success as the first staff professional to switch into new Tour Preferred X ball, Justin Rose, did so before his victory at the UBS Hong Kong Open. www.TaylorMadeGolf.com - 59 -

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un Mountain, market leader in premium golf bags, is introducing the lightest fully-featured golf bag on the market in its range for 2016.

The No.1 premium golf bag brand – the first to introduce waterproof bags for all-weather golfers seven years ago – is adding the new Two Five carry bag weighing just over 1kg (or 2.5 lbs).

Constructed from ultra-lightweight 70 durable Denier Ripstop Nylon, similar to the material used in outdoor equipment applications such as mountaineering tents, the bag also features carbon-fibre legs instead of the normal aluminium legs. By adding a high strength-toweight plastic top and bottom, Sun Mountain claims that the Two Five is now the lightest bag in its category.

The X-Strap Dual Strap System and lumbar hip pad with AirFlow System provides maximum comfort when carrying over 18 holes or more.

The Two Five also comes with a 9” four-way top and flared opening for easy club removal, along with an integrated lift-assist handle, plus four fulllength dividers. It’s available in six striking colour options, including Black/Envy and Orange/White.

“To carry such a lightweight bag is always going to be a real bonus for any serious golfer,” said chief designer at Sun Mountain Seth Enes.

“But, although it’s extremely light, you don’t lose out on any features as the Two Five offers many of those traditionally found on other bags on the market,” he added.

Other features of Two Five include four accessory pockets with E-Z grip zip pulls; Pen, Towel & Umbrella holder; Leg lock system; Teflon-coated rain hood; and lower pocket can be embroidered with club logo.

22 Foot Golf Club Sees Texan Set Awesome World Record T

hey say everything’s bigger in Texas – and that even applies to golf clubs now, after a Dallas native set a new world record for the farthest shot with the longest usable driver.

Michael Furrh, 47, a golf professional and entertainer, smashed his 2014 Guinness World Record in spectacular fashion – while donning a proudly American patriotic outfit from Royal & Awesome – hitting the ball a whopping 87 yards with a 22’ ¾”driver.

Furrh, who builds his own clubs using steel-shaft extensions, said: “Last year, I set the world record with a 19’ 4” driver, hitting it 89 yards, but I had three broken ribs from a car accident just 10 days before. But, as they say, ‘the show must go on’.

“This year, I was 100 per cent and I think that’s the main reason I was able to hit the ball 24 yards farther. I actually consulted with the physics department at the local university, and they told me, mathematically, I shouldn’t be able to hit the ball more than about 45 to 50 yards.

“After hitting it 87 yards I feel great; I was able to do something they said, mathematically, I

shouldn’t have been able to do.”

Furrh uses long golf clubs as an entertainment tool in his golf shows and has, over the past three years, managed to raise more than $54,000 for a host of charities.

He added: “The whole idea of hitting the ball with the longest golf club started at one of my golf entertainment shows. We were on a par-five and my boss said to me: ‘I don’t think you have enough club’.

“He then proceeded to hand me an eight-foot driver and I managed to hit the ball about 250 yards. It was kind of a punchline but that’s where it all started.

“There are 112 world records relating to golf.

When I was a kid, my grandfather had the Guinness World Records book at his house and I was infatuated with it. Every time I visited that was the only book I was interested in reading and I thought to myself ‘someday, somehow, someway I will be in that book’.” www.royalandawesome.co.uk or www.facebook.com/royalandawesome

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GOLF TIPS FOR AROUND THE COURSE As every golfer knows, if the ball doesn’t land on the fairway your problems are only just beginning.

Your ball could be on a slope, in tall grass or bushes, on the lip of a bunker, on stony ground etc. etc In his new compact guide, best-selling author Yves Ton-That (“Golf Rules Quick Reference”, more than 1 million copies sold) gives the reader tips for every seemingly hopeless situation – short and concise, illustrated and easy-to-understand. Thanks to the structure with sections from tee to green, golfers can find the information they need in an instant. A quick fix guide for eliminating mistakes makes the practical ring-bound water-repellent booklet the ideal accompaniment on the course.

The tips are based on many years of competition experience by leading golf professionals. We’d be willing to bet that “Golf Trouble Shots and Quick Fix Guide” will help you save a number of strokes on your next round.

Order now on online at www.essexgolfer.com - 61 -

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 RENT: Spain, 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 from: lindamarysmith@gmail.com, mobile 07710 801 872.

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. £750.00 Contact malcolm.wehmeyer@yahoo.co.uk or 07749 705 968.

FOR RENT: Spain, overlooking Bernard Langer designed course from front & back terraces, this 2 bed apartment offers the ideal location to explore the peaceful Spanish area of the Costa Azahar, between Barcelona and Valencia. Prices from £200 PW. Offers great value for money, with all mod consand laundry service. Larger groups can be accommodated, please contact 07711 470 146 or email nigelmartin2006@hotmail.co.uk.

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.

Price £400 per week.

Contact elainemcgilvray@yahoo.co.uk for further information.

FOR RENT: Golf Resort Hacienda Riquelme Resort – Murcia – Spain – 2 Bedroom Apartment sleeps 4-6, part of the Jack Nicklaus golf trail, secure gated community, great course, amenities on site, beaches nearby, 15 min drive to airport, cheap flights available from Southend /Stansted.

From £250.00 per week, long term rental available – please email lee_hibell@hotmail.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.From £150 per week. Contact lindamarysmith@gmail.com, mobile 07710 801 872.

FOR SALE: St Mellion 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 the dining room enables privacy for 6. Cost £2000, for further information email Jackie@jsoilleux.fsnet.co.uk.

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 & restaurants, beaches within 15min drive. From £300; contact Elaine for further details at tennis.brimson@btinternet.com.

FOR SALE: Orange Lake – timeshare for sale, week 34 (end August), sleeps 8, 3 beds, 2 baths. Set in 1400 acres, 4 golf courses and close to all Orlando theme parks. Overlooks par 3 golf course, 5 mins walk to swimming pool and clubhouse. £2500. Tel: Mike Winston 01277 658 726.

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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 & supermarket, beaches within 20min drive. From £250: contact Elaine for details tennis.brimson@btinternet.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 a 10 minute drive. Contact Keith Clissold Tel: 07710 959 479 keith.clissold@btconnect.com.

FOR SALE: Bansko, Bulgaria. Large, fully equipped, ground floor brand new apartment. Two bedroom , two bathroom. Plenty of storage and lobby area also.Large west facing patio with mountain views. 10 minute drive to 27 hole complex Pirin Golf www.piringolf.bg (Ian Woosnam design).

The town offers much in the way of entertainment with plenty of traditional taverns, bars and night clubs and a number of ‘modern European’ restaurants. Hiking, mountain biking etc also available. Please call Roy for more info Tel: 07855 803 404.

FOR RENT: Costa Calida. 15 minutes to airport and the sea. Located in a Golf Resort with onsite bars and pool and a golfer’s paradise. 2 beds villa €500 per month inclusive of council tax, building and contents insurance. It is possible to LIVE THERE FOR FREE subject to personal circumstances. Please email 126@pcmlap.com for more information.