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www.essexgolfer.com ESSEX GOLFER MAGAZINE – SERVING THE GOLFERS OF ESSEX SINCE 1996
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Record Breaking London Golf Show ‘A Great Success’
T
he Organisers of the London Golf Show, which was held at Glow, BLUEWATER, from 14-16 November, report increased visitor numbers, records for retail spend and golf lessons delivered at its leading UK golf exhibition. Official visitor numbers were 12,931 over three days of the show which is 9% up on the previous year’s show at Earls Court. The Golf Show Group credit the increase in numbers to a series of key drivers, a change of venue with free parking, an upturn in the economy, an increased number of exhibitors with a diverse range of products, and an increasingly focussed marketing campaign. MD of the Golf Show Group, Damian Benstead said: “This year’s London Golf Show has been a great success for us and for our exhibitors who have reported great feedback about their experiences. “Retail spend with show partner Silvermere Golf Store was up, with takings over the three days totalling £127,000 which is a record for them at the London Golf Show. Coaching partner Playgolf delivered 876 individual golf lessons to visitors, which again is a record number for the London Golf Show.
“Our new venue Bluewater proved to be a great hit with visitors too, with 12,931 choosing to come to the show and park for free.” “Prostate Cancer UK, the show’s official charity partner reported great feedback from visitors, delivering online support and advice from their stand, they also benefited from more than £4,500 in donations from the Long Putt, Long Drive, Crazy Golf and the Hole in One. “Massive thanks go out to all the exhibitors that supported us and all the visitors who came to the show, we look forward to welcoming everyone again in 2015.” The London Golf Show also featured the Golf Tourism Show, which saw exhibitors from all over the world come to meet golfers from the UK. This proved to be a great addition and is expected to form an increasingly important part of the exhibition in the future. The Golf Show Group also operate and manage the Manchester Golf Show which will be held in the Spring of 2015, dates and venue details to be announced soon. For more details please contact Dominic McMullan, Marketing Manager on 020 3589 0311 or email golfshow@ganadores.co.uk
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BRENTWOOD GOLF CLUB (Formerly Weald Park)
WINTER SPECIAL
Bacon Roll with Tea or
Coffee + 18 Holes
£17.50 (Mon-Fri) £25 (Sat & Sun) SENIORS WEDS DEAL
After 1p m (M £10.00 on-Fri) After 1p m (Sat £15.00 & Sun)
Mon-Fri After 10.30am Tea or Coffee Bacon Roll with H + 18 oles
Non Members Welcome
£12.50 (over 60) Please book in
advance
can book Non members ays in advance Tee Times 7 D
AL WINTER SOCIETYTeaDE /Coffee
(Mon-Fri) Bacon Rolls with & Gravy + 18 holes followed by Sausage, Mash
Only
£25
Free 4 Ball Voucher Min 8 Players + (valid for 1 year) (Sat & Sun) as above (after 10.30am)
£30
2015 Summer Society
Special
On Arrival Bacon Baps with unlimi ted Tea/Coffee, 18 Holes and Ham Egg & Chips Book Now for just
We are currently constructing a Buggy Path that will go round the whole course (all 18 Holes), meaning we will soon have Buggies available during the winter. We are also having extensive drainage work done, which will mean a much more dryer course during the winter months.
£27per person (Mon-Fri) or £3 3 per person (Sat & Sun) This offer is only available if booke
d before 31st January 2015
– HOSTS OF THE –
2014 JUBILEE CUP FINAL
Coxtie Green Road, South Weald, Brentwood, Essex CM14 5RJ
01277 375 101
---333--- Web: www.brentwoodgolfclub.co.uk Email: russell@brentwoodgolfclub.co.uk
THE BURSTEAD GOLF • CLUB
A
Tye Common Road, Little Burstead, Billericay, Essex, CM12 9SS info@thebursteadgolfclub.com www.thebursteadgolfclub.com
mazingly, it has been ten months since we took over the publication of Essex Golfer magazine, and what a great experience it has been. During 2014 the growth of the magazine has been exceptional, with more subscriptions than ever and record breaking statistics on our website. Our success would not be possible without your loyal support, and we are confident that with your continued support, the magazine’s success story will continue. Thank you for being loyal readers, and also a special thank you to our advertisers and those readers who have sent in articles.
Christmas Special 18 Holes & 2 Course Xmas Dinner Weekday £25 / Weekend £30 Offer available from 11.00am
SEAsONs GreetiNgs from the
essex GOlfeR TeAm Visitors Welcome
Essex Golfer Magazine 7c Perry Road, Witham, Essex CM8 3UD Tel: 01621 815 577 Email:- info@essexgolfer.com www.essexgolfer.com 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.
Twilight from 1.00pm Monday - Friday £18 Saturday - Sunday £22 Contact pro shop for tee time reservations For further information on society deals please contact Chris Nunn Director of Golf on 01277 631 171 chris.nunn@thebursteadgolfclub.com -4-
Enjoy all the benefits of a 7 Day Membership* for up to three months. Sign up to become part of the Playgolf Family as either a 5 or 7 Day Member after your trial period and we will deduct the trial fee from your first year's membership.
2=HG PK = IAI>AN KB PDA PA=I ,-5 PK OECJ QL BKN UKQN IAI>ANODEL PK@=U PLAYGOLFCOL
01206 843 333
PLAYGOLF COLCHESTER
BAKERS LANE
COLCHESTER@PLAYGOLFWORLD.COM
COLCHESTER
CO3 4AU
WWW.PLAYGOLFCOLCHESTER.COM
Terms & Conditions *your trial membership does not include a handicap or competition play. Our trial membership offer will run from 1st January to 31st March 2015 only. We will pro rata the price down, depending on which month you join. Three month Membership - £125. Two month membership £95. One month membership £60. This offer is only open to people who have not taken up a previous trial membership or full membership at Playgolf Colchester. This offer is as stated and cannot be exchanged for any other item. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. T&Cs apply, available on request.
COLCHESTER
SALE Firstly many thanks to all those who supported our 20th Anniversary. It was a great success for us and judging by the number of customers we saw it was a worthwhile trip for you. All 20 electric trolleys were sold and I hope all those who won bottles of champagne, wine and beer in our ‘pick a balloon event’ will toast Nevada Bobs Colchester at some stage! 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 Saturday 27th December. Already we have some Callaway, Wilson and Cobra woods lined up at 50% off along with half price clothing, shoes and bags. Finally for the 1st time ever we have a special offer on Titleist Pro V1 golf balls (see opposite). For the 1st two days only, provided you spend £25 you can purchase 2 dozen boxes for only £60. This is a saving of £30 on their recommended retail price. From all the staff at Nevada Bobs Colchester have a very happy Christmas and a great golfing 2015!
Phil
STARTS SATURDAY 27TH DECEMBER DOORS OPEN 9AM. UP TO 50% OFF MANY ITEMS FROM CLUBS TO CLOTHES! -6-
An extra 10% off all sale prices on the 1st day of the sale O N LY W I T H T H I S V O U C H E R .
NAME: ..............................................................................................
!
EMAIL:...............................................................................................
COLCHESTER
Valid Saturday 27th December 2014 only. No two offers combined.
For the 27th and 28th only, spend £25 and get 2 dozen Titleist Pro V1 balls for only £60. This is a saving of £30 (RRP) ONE PURCHASE PER CUSTOMER. NAME: ..............................................................................................
!
EMAIL:...............................................................................................
COLCHESTER Valid Saturday 27th December 2014 and Sunday 28th December only. No two offers combined.
NEVADA BOB’S COLCHESTER, 75 LONDON ROAD CO PFORD, 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. -7-
COLCHESTER
A12
COPFORD
B408 J25
MARKS TEY
NEVADA BOB’S
STAPLEFORD ABBOTTS GOLF CLUB invites you to our Ladies’ Open Wednesday 29 July 2015 • 18 Holes Stableford – Full Handicap • Teams of 3, Best 2 Scores Count • Starting Times from 09.00am ENTRY FEE £33.00 PER PERSON Includes light breakfast, on-course refreshments and 2 course meal Tea/Coffee (PLEASE ADVISE OF ANY SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS)
followed by the Presentation of Prizes Please return the entry form with your cheque made payable to Stapleford Abbotts Golf Club Ladies Section To: Mrs Ingrid Clarke, 40 Hanover Gardens, Hainault, Essex IG6 2RA Email: ingridclarke29@gmail.com Telephone: 07711 311 022 A STAMPED ADDRESSED ENVELOPE IS REQUIRED FOR DETAIL S O F YO UR TEA M ’ S S TA RT TIM E
Player One:
Address:
(NAME)
Post Code: Telephone: Email: Player Two:
Golf Club: Handicap: Address:
(NAME)
Post Code: Telephone: Email: Player Three:
Golf Club: Handicap: Address:
(NAME)
Post Code: Telephone:
Golf Club:
Email:
Handicap:
-8-
LUKE EGGLESTON
Coaching & Custom Fitting Specialist
6m x 3m Screen
850 sq ft
“Come and see the South of England’s premier indoor facility”
GRAND OPENING Saturday 10th January 10am – 3pm Refreshments & Special Offers on the day
Nearest the Pin Competition £10 for 5 attempts Winner receives a Scotty Cameron Putter
T&C’S APPLY
Winter 4 Ball Special Play one of 15 courses for £60 per hour
UNTIL 31st MARCH
A1 MOT This includes a complete MOT analysis of your clubs from Swingweight, Frequency, Length, Loft, Lie and Grip check. All for only £10 (normally £30)
EMAIL O R C A L L TO R ES E R V E YO U R AT T E N DA N C E
298 Roding Lane South, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 8FE Email: a1ljegolf@luke-eggleston.co.uk Web: www.luke-eggleston.co.uk
0208 551 3986 / 07908 446 104
Sarah Bennett Golf
Come and visit Sarah at Three Rivers Golf & Country Club and learn from a Ladies European Tour & PGA Qualified 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.
Lessons available with Sarah: 07719 617 349 E: SarahBennettGolf@gmail.com Please sign up for Sarah’s blogs and newsletters via SarahBennettGolf.Co.Uk
Follow me on Facebook: SarahBennettGolf Twitter @sbennettgolf
IT’S ALL ABOUT W
THE TIMING
ith all the technicalities surrounding the game of golf, I believe we can sometimes fail to appreciate the importance of the overall flow of the swing which is a critical element. I would like to write a short piece surrounding “timing” within the golf swing which I decided upon yes.. you have guessed it Bonfire night! I think the pictures below can clearly demonstrate the main concept. A picture is worth a thousand words! Figure 1 was one of my first attempts to capture the firework clearly miss-timing the shutter speed effectively! After about 20 minutes, toward the end
of the display I actually managed to capture the image. My focus was not based around the positioning of my arm or angle at which I held the camera but just the timing of the depression of the button! If you have ever watched a Ladies or Men’s Tour event, it is quite clear that every swing is different from a visual perspective. However all world class players possess one common denominator; “timing” which is critical in the delivery of the clubface to the ball at impact in a square position with the most ideal angle, the ultimate goal in golf.
Fig 1.
Fig 2.
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The main components within the golf swing which influence our “timing” are the • Club head • Hands • Arms • Body These components all move at different speeds both during the backswing and downswing but it is the most efficient and ideal sequencing of these parts which combine to create a quality strike, increased distance and consistent direction. If the order of these parts is inconsistent in particular from the top of the swing to impact this causes inconsistencies within the ball flight and strike issues. Timing is not be to confused with swing speed, an example of two very different tempos are Ernie Els and Nick Price with the latter possessing an incredible tempo. Ernie looks as if he is swinging in slow motion but propels the ball an enormous distance. Nick Price with a completely contrasting tempo has one of the briskest swings but both have superb timing and flow within the swing something we can all learn from. Imagine one of your favourite players and try to recreate that same sense of “flow” within your swing. You will be surprised how few technical thoughts you will have.
Wishing all my Readers and Clients a lovely Christmas and Happy Golfing for the 2015 season Sarah
£25
Monday to Friday
1st Nov 2014 – 31st March 2015 Please call 01245 440 005 to reserve your tee time
A selection of Christmas vouchers are available now. If you are looking for game improvement programme for 2015 then please contact Sarah directly for further information W: SarahBennettgolf.co.uk M: 07719 617 349 E: SarahBennettGolf@Gmail.com
The New
dates have just added please view the dedicated website www.golfinggirl.co.uk for women who would like to learn golf in Essex. Sarah has a four year proven track record for the introduction of ladies to golf in Essex offering a structured follow on coaching programme.Why not give golf a go with Sarah at Three Rivers Golf & Country Club.
18 holes with curry and rice
Channels, Belsteads Farm Lane Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT T: 01245 440 005 E: info@channelsce.co.uk
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B
Barry Will Bring a Buzz to South Essex Golf Centre
arry Careford, the new manager at South Essex Golf Centre, arrives with a promise to make every golfer feel like they are a member. The 36 year-old music lover started at the South Essex GC on Monday October 20th expecting a buoyant atmosphere at the popular Brentwood golf centre, which recently added a FootGolf course to its three golf courses. “The people at your golf club are like your extended family” said Careford. “My philosophy is to treat every golfer like they are already a member, as soon as they drive into our car park. Golfers tend to be loyal and friendly, and that’s the atmosphere I will encourage at South Essex Golf Centre”. The new boss took up golf as a teenager, and has whittled his handicap down to an impressive 10 – but he doesn’t expect to get much time to work on it. “I expect to be too busy through the winter to play much golf myself” he said. “I am looking forward to getting to know the golf club, its customers and staff, and I am going to have to sacrifice my own golf game so that others can improve theirs!” Golf’s often staid image is something which Careford is determined to change at South Essex. “When you visit here you’ll find a sport which is vibrant, energetic and fun. People get a buzz when they exercise, and with the amazing recent growth of FootGolf here too, South Essex is very much a modern golf centre with very few remnants of
golf’s stuffy past”. The north Londoner joins South Essex after an impressive five years at Hertfordshire golf club Chesfield Downs, where he put his leisure industry training to good use. Having spent the early years of his career at David Lloyd and Virgin health clubs, he helped Chesfield Downs to expand its leisure club membership fourfold during his time there as Golf & Leisure Manager. “Barry is a great people person as well as being a very strong manager, and he was the outstanding candidate when we were looking for someone to take over at South Essex Golf Centre. We have been waiting for the right challenge to arise for him within our company for some time” said Stephen Towers, Chief Operating Officer at Crown Golf, which owns and operates South Essex, Chesfield Downs and 23 other golf venues across the UK. “Seeing successful staff progress in their career is one of the most rewarding things about running an organisation like Crown Golf, and I have no doubt that Barry’s outgoing personality will enable him to establish himself quickly as the new figurehead at South Essex”.
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E
PowaKaddy Gifts Trolleys in Support Of England’s Disabled Golfers
ngland Golf and PowaKaddy have ensured that disabled golfers are given improved access to the game by awarding electric trolleys to several of the country’s golf-related disability groups. Using inventory once put into play by England’s top amateur golfers competing in some of the world’s most prestigious events, England Golf presented PowaKaddy electric trolleys to England Deaf Golf, England and Wales Blind Golf, BALASA Golf and the Disabled Golf Association Each group was given the freedom to determine who would be awarded each individual trolley and all used the opportunity to increase engagement with their members and promote their involvement in golf. For instance, England Deaf Golf chose to award its trolleys as prizes to the winners of the 2014 England Deaf Golf Open, while England and Wales Blind Golf Association put its allocation to use during this year’s Auld Enemies match against Scotland, from which it emerged victorious. Delighted that the trolleys have been used to encourage participation in the sport amongst disabled golfers, England Golf Disability Manager, Jamie Blair, said: “I would like to thank PowaKaddy for their generous donation. England Golf is proud to recognise that it is not just non-disabled players representing England throughout the golfing year. A number of disability golf organisations compete
on national, European and world stages throughout the year. “Disabled golfers and those with a long-term limiting conditions account for 10% of those playing once a week in England and I know that the trolleys will go to good use and Powakaddy’s recognition of those playing the game, not just elite golfers, is great to see. “The disability golf organisations run tournaments and are always looking for support for events and for their players. It is the long-term ambition for England Golf to provide support for talented disabled players competing at these levels.” As official trolley supplier to England Golf, PowaKaddy presents a fleet of its state-of-the-art electric trolleys to both men’s and women’s squads ahead of the golf season each year. This year, the nation’s elite amateurs received the outstanding FW7 model, which has been met with widespread acclaim from media, retailers and the public, alike. “We are just as delighted to know that the equipment no longer required by the national squads is being put to great use by various disability golf associations, providing a tremendous opportunity for their members to enjoy our great game.”
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FORRESTER PARK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Great Totham, Nr Maldon CM9 8EA 01621 891 406 • info@forrester-park.co.uk www.forrester-park.co.uk Forrester Park Golf & Country Club
FESTIVE WINTER WARMERS AT FORRESTER PARK Valid any time Monday, Thursday, Friday and after midday Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday (Mince pies end on 4.1.15)
mn
FESTIVE WINTER WARMER 1: ENGLISH BREAKFAST, 18 HOLES
mn
£20 (weekdays and Sundays) – £25 (Saturdays)
FESTIVE WINTER WARMER 2: TEA OR COFFEE & BACON SANDWICH, 18 HOLES, CHEF’S SPECIAL LUNCH & MINCE PIES
mn mn Twilight after 12.30pm £12 any day
£25 (weekdays and Sundays) – £30 (Saturdays)
9 holes £13 any day (subject to availability)
(subject to availability)
BOOKINGS ON 01621 891406 or go to www.forrester-park.co.uk/golf
www.essexgolfer.com For the best deals on Golf in Essex
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 - 15 -
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
CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR GAME THIS
Winter?
After a great summer and autumn winter is here. It has gone very quickly and the colder weather is on the way. So what are the things you could be focusing on in the winter to help improve your game?
Aim to be ready when March comes A good thought is to start getting your game ready for when March comes next year so that you hit the ground running into next season.. What did you do well and what do you need improve for next year? Work on your Technique Winter is a great time to work on your technique and ingrain a new move as you have to think a lot about the move you need to change which is what you don't want to be doing on the course.Winter is the best time to improving your technique and the best time to be having lessons which is contrary to what most people do. Improve your fitness A great time to improve you golf fitness which should mainly focus on improving your flexibility. It could involve going to a regular pilates class or working with a trainer. Other sports such as tennis and badminton are great ways to improve your fitness for golf as well.
Get your clubs fitted It is a good time to look at new clubs if you are thinking of changing your equipment. If you are not changing makesure your get your grips changed and iron's loft and lied before the new season starts. Grips should be changed once a year if you play regulary and most clubs loft and lies can move so have them checked. Practice at home for 10 minutes If you are working on something in your swing you can work on it at home if you have a space. You could use a mirror to work on your swing or practice your putting on a putting mat.
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Are your tired of playing in your water proofs?
Matt is running a winter coaching trip to Spain and would like to invite you to join him. The details of the trip are; Friday 9th January to Monday 12th January, Three nights’ b/b in Twin/Double Room, 5 x 90 minute Golf Tuition Sessions on all parts of the Game from PGA Advanced Professional, 1 Round of Golf (extra Rounds available), Access to Par 3 course for new/Beginner golfers, Use of Practice Facilities, Flights from Gatwick and Southend Airports (not included in Price and to be booked separately), Airport transfers in Spain, Non Golfers Welcome, On Site Spa,Weather normally 15 to 20°C (Not Guaranteed but better than UK) Cost is £389 plus flights. Please get in contact for more info or a booking form. - 16 -
Video Launch: ‘The Opportunity to Grow Golf, Youth Participation’
THE BURSTEAD
A
new video highlighting how golf clubs can successfully engage young people in golf received its first public viewing at the 2014 European Golf Business Conference in Barcelona this week. The video, which can be viewed at www.greencast.co.uk, is the first in a series of short documentaries produced by Syngenta to support its ongoing market research into youth and female participation and showcases the work of Gaudet Luce Golf Club, Worcestershire, UK.
The club, which works closely with local schools and has created its own youth development program, coaches more than 150 young people each week. Nearly 60 young people have become junior members at the club, with 41 parents joining as full members and another 48 parents signing up as academy members. Simon Elsworth, Head Turf & Landscape EAME, who presented the findings of the recently published study The Opportunity to Grow Golf: Youth Participation at the 2014 European Golf Business Conference, said: “The video brings to life what our golf market research is saying – young people need fast-track learning, affordable play, shorter courses and flexible facilities where they feel welcome and happy. “Gaudet Luce is a great example of a golf club that is listening carefully to what its customers and prospective customers are saying. It proves that golf clubs can successfully grasp the opportunity of youth participation and, in doing so, deliver longterm benefits for golf both as a sport and a business.” To watch the video and download Syngenta’s golf market research reports, visit www.greencast.co.uk
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GOLF • CLUB
Tye Common Road, Little Burstead, Billericay, Essex, CM12 9SS info@thebursteadgolfclub.com www.thebursteadgolfclub.com
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. • • •
Societies welcome (Monday – Sunday) Membership available (no joining fee) Membership rates start from as little as £334
For further information on membership or society deals please contact Chris Nunn Director of Golf on 01277 631 171 chris.nunn@thebursteadgolfclub.com
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. Tel: 07801 813 687 / 01245 381 181 www.bodysenseukltd.co.uk
Start As You Mean To Go On!
Keep your body well fuelled and top up your muscle glycogen as you continue to train and play during the winter season. The flapjacks can be used as you practice to release carbohydrates slowly (as the carb content is combined with protein) and maintain blood sugar levels. By adding seeds this adds in valuable omega oils in the form of essential fatty acids to nourish the brain and boost concentration!
Sports Performance Flapjacks Recipe
s Ingredpioernridtge oats
of • Bag s g g • E ar ve nect • Aga ins • Rais ands onut str c o utter C • lmond b ds nut or a a and see e P s • of nut e ic o h c r • You
Equipment • Coo li
ng rack • Mix ing bow l • Lar ge cup/g lass • Wo oden sp oon • Bak ing tray • But ter to g rease th • Spa e tray tula to flatten t he ingre dients
Method 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Heat the oven to 200° C and grease your baking tray. Scoop one cup of oats into the mixing bowl. Break one egg, mix with a fork and poor into the oats. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of agave nectar into the bowl and mix all ingredients together. Add 1 tablespoon of nut butter. Blend in your choice of nuts seeds, coconut, cranberries and dried fruits. 7. Flatten ingredients into the baking tray away from the edges to prevent burning. 8. Bake in the centre of the oven for 10 to 12 minutes. 9. Remove from the oven divided into 2 inch squares and slide into cooling rack. Have a happy, healthy and relaxing Christmas! - 18 -
Burnham-on-Crouch Golf Club Private Members Club for All Abilities
7 DAY MEMBERSHIP 15
12
UP TO MONTHS FOR THE PRICE OF STARTS 1ST JANUARY 2015 UP TO 31ST MARCH 2016 *
£825
*15 months – £56 per month inc Union fees. LIMITED OFFER – FIRST COME FIRST SERVED – conditions apply
Winter Societies SPECIAL OFFER
£17.50pp
GREEN FEE OFFER
£70
A FOUR BALL Limited Spaces available – all games must be pre booked with office
NH
AM
-ON- CR
OU
BU
CH
R
N O V EM B ER - MARCH
GO
LF CLUB
IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A MEMBERS GOLF CLUB IN A TRANQUIL SETTING LOOK NO FURTHER
For further information call 01621 782 Visit www.burnhamgolfclub.co.uk
282
ion eti t om p eC Pr iz
DOES THIS GREAT ESSEX GOLF HOLE
look familiar?
Name the course and have the chance of winning A FOURBALL ON THE MYSTERY COURSE COLCHESTER 12 SRIXON Z STAR GOLF BALLS, courtesy of 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.
ION T I PET NER M CO WIN
Last month’s winner was Mark Blatcher who recognised the 14th Hole at Brentwood Golf Club
To play at Brentwood Golf Club Call 01277 375 101 www.brentwoodgolfclub.co.uk
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THE GARY PIKE GOLF ACADEMY
Top teaching professional Gary Pike PGA.AP (advanced professional) invites you to his golf academy at Forrester Park Golf Club near Maldon. Gary has over 31 years of coaching experience and is a David Leadbetter trained instructor. He has published over 150 articles on the golf swing. Gary is coach to Walker Cup player Dale Whitnell and was the Essex County Senior Coach from 1998 to 2012 Contact the golf academy on 07801 428 174 or visit www.garypikegolf.com
Change the Direction. Change the Grip Alignment.
T
he biggest influence in the direction the ball fly’s is the clubface. The biggest influence on the clubface is the way in which we align our grip around the handle at address. Pictures 1, 2 and 3 show the three options on the alignment of your grip around the handle. Picture 1 is strong, as I look down I can see 3 knuckle’s on the left hand 1 knuckle on the right. Picture 2 is neutral; as I look down I can see 2 knuckle’s on the left hand and 2 knuckles of the right. Finally, picture 3 is weak; as I look down I can see 1 knuckle on the left hand 3 knuckles of the right. Now for your ball flight, if the ball fly’s to the right, the chances are that the clubface is open or
1
2
pointing to the right of target (for a right-handed player) shown in picture 4. If these are your clubface conditions, I suggest you use the grip in Picture 1 a strong grip to help square the clubface. If your ball flight fly’s to the left, the chances are the clubface is closed or pointing toward the left of target (for a right-handed player) shown in picture 5, in this case I would suggest that you use the grip alignment in picture 3, this will help to keep the clubface square at impact. However, if your ball flight is flying in the right direction, then carry on and do nothing! If you are interested in me looking at your game, just call me on 07801 428 174 the initial Gary consultation is free.
3
4
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5
Book your Winter Golf Day or Golf Break! Golf Days from £29.95pp* UÊ vviiÊ> `ÊL>V ÊÀ ÃÊ Ê>ÀÀ Û> Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê UÊ£nÊ iÃÊ vÊ} v Ê Ê Ê Ê UÊÓ V ÕÀÃiÊ i> Ê Ê
Golf Breaks from £89pp** for 1-night Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê UÊ1 Ìi`Ê} vÊ ÊL Ì ÊV > « à «ÊV ÕÀÃiÃ Ê Ê Ê UÊ i V ÕÃÊÎ V ÕÀÃiÊ` iÀ Ê Ê Ê UÊFÕ Ê } à ÊLÀi> v>ÃÌ Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê UÊ « i Ì>ÀÞÊÕÃiÊ vÊ ÕÀÊ ÕÝÕÀ ÕÃÊ« à `iÊv>V Ì ià ÊÞ ÕÀÊ vÊ >ÞÊ ÀÊ vÊ Ài> ÊLÞÊV> }Êä£ÓäÈÊÓÈxnÓÇÊ ÀÊLÞÊi > }Ê > > ° Õ JÃÌ iLÞ >Þ > `°V ÊÞ ÕÀÊ vÊ >ÞÊ ÀÊ vÊ Ài> ÊLÞÊV> }Êä£ÓäÈÊÓÈxnÓÇÊ ÀÊLÞÊi > }Ê > > ° Õ JÃÌ iLÞ >Þ > `°V -Ì iÊLÞÊ Ê Ê >Þ > `Ê Ìi ]Ê ii«iÀÃÊ > i]Ê i>Ûi i>Ì ]Ê V iÃÌiÀÊ "ÈÊ{*<Ê/i \Êä£ÓäÈÊÓÈÓnÎÈ Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê I*À ViÊµÕ Ìi`Ê ÃÊÛ> `Ê ÊqÊ À °Ê7ii i `ÊL }ÃÊ>ÀiÊÃÕL iVÌÊÌ Ê>Û> >L ÌÞÊÊ Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê ÊÊ > `Ê>Êˣ䫫ÊÃÕÀV >À}iÊ>«« iðÊII,>ÌiÊ ÃÊL>Ãi`Ê ÊÓÊà >À }Ê>ÊÀ ÊvÀ Ê-Õ Ê Ê/ ÕÀÃ°Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê ÊÊ Ê "vviÀÊÃÕL iVÌÊÌ Ê>Û> >L ÌÞÊ vÊ>VV `>Ì ÉÌiiÊÌ iðÊ- } iÊÃÕ«« i i ÌÊ ÊËÎäÊ«iÀÊ } Ì° Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê ÊÊ Ê Ê Ê
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Tickets go on Sale for 2015 Open Championship
T
ickets go on sale this week for the 2015 Open Championship at St Andrews, where Rory McIlroy will defend his title. The 144th Open Championship will be played from 12-19 July 2015 over the Old Course and world number one McIlroy will return to St Andrews as defending Champion after his twoshot victory over Sergio Garcia and Rickie Fowler at Royal Liverpool in July. The Open will be played at St Andrews for the 29th time and the list of champions at the Home of Golf includes some of the greatest players in the sport’s history such as Bobby Jones, Peter Thomson, Jack Nicklaus, Seve Ballesteros, Sir Nick Faldo, Tiger Woods and Louis Oosthuizen, who lifted the Claret Jug in 2010. Earlier this year, The R&A, which organises The Open, announced an extension to the exemption of five-time Open Champion Tom Watson which will enable him to make his 40th anniversary appearance in The Open at St Andrews next year. Ticket prices are being kept the same in 2015 for concessions and accompanied children aged under-16 will continue to enjoy free entry to the Championship. After being frozen for this year’s Open, the price of an adult daily ticket will go up by £5 to £70, if purchased before 31 May and £80 thereafter. If a ticket is purchased before 31 May, the £70 price represents a £10 increase on the 2010 daily ticket price. Weekly tickets, valid from Sunday 12 to Sunday 19 July inclusive, are available for £240, a saving of £125 on the daily ticket prices for the full week. Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, Executive Director – Championships at The R&A, said, “We are very much looking forward to the return of The Open to St Andrews next year. There is always a special
atmosphere at St Andrews and we will be working hard to deliver an outstanding experience for spectators once again. With Rory McIlroy defending the Claret Jug and Tom Watson making what is likely to be his final appearance in The Open, there will be no shortage of drama and emotion for the galleries. It promises to be a fantastic week of world class golf.” Tickets for The Open go on sale on Tuesday 4 November 2014. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit TheOpen.com
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DECEMBER SPECIAL
1 years full membership open to all for *
£495
*TERMS APPLY
4 BALL DEALS Mon-Fri
Weekend
£49 £68
Ladies Section
Tee Times on a Tuesday & Saturday Mornings
291 WANSTEAD PARK RD, ILFORD, ESSEX IG1 3TR
0208 554 2930 www.ilfordgolfclub.com - 25 -
E
England Golf Strategic Plan
ngland Golf has developed a new and ambitious strategic plan to tackle golf’s challenges and create an even brighter future for the sport. Golf is big business. It makes a contribution of £3.4 billion a year to the English economy. It is the fifth largest participation sport in the country. It has a structure of volunteers and paid staff at club, county and national level that is the envy of many other sports. But golf also faces some serious challenges.The number of golf club members has been declining since 2004 and this has put a financial strain on many golf clubs. Overall participation in golf has also been declining steadily since 2007. This strategy sets out ways to ‘raise our game’ to address these challenges by working in partnership with all who care about our sport. PURPOSE Inspiring lifelong involvement in golf.
VISION England Golf at the heart of a network of partners, empowering and supporting a thriving community of golf facilities and golfers and widely recognised as being a forward thinking and successful organisation.
AMBITIONS FOR 2017 • To increase the number of people who play golf at least once a week from the baseline of 750,000 in 2014 to 910,000* by March 2017. • To reverse the decline in club membership which has been occurring annually since 2005 and stabilise club membership at the July 2014 level of 675,000 members. • To strengthen the talent development pathway from club to national level, leading to even more international success for English players • To improve communications, governance and partnerships at all levels within England Golf.
Hundreds of individuals and organisations have contributed to the development of this strategy. There is strong support for the creation of a single vision, shared ambitions or goals and a clear strategy which can guide the work of many and encourage coordinated action around the key challenges and opportunities surrounding England Golf. The strategy is built around the seven key themes or priorities that emerged strongly
It will inform the future work of the board, committees and staff of England Golf, the county unions, associations and county golf partnerships, the clubs and volunteers. It will also help to shape the way we work with national and local partners. Hundreds of individuals and organisations have contributed to this strategy and there is strong support for the creation of a single vision, shared ambitions and a clear strategy.
through the consultation process and which require coordinated action at club, county and national levels: • MORE PLAYERS: Increasing the number of players who play golf regularly.
• MORE MEMBERS: Increasing the number of players in club membership.
• STRONGER CLUBS: Supporting clubs to attract and retain members and to achieve a sustainable business model.
• WINNING GOLFERS: Identifying and developing talented golfers at every level, leading to international amateur success.
• OUTSTANDING CHAMPIONSHIPS: Providing excellent championships and competitions for golfers of all levels.
• IMPROVED IMAGE: Changing the perception of golf and improving communications within the sport.
• EXCELLENT GOVERNANCE: Improving the governance, building the infrastructure and strengthening the partnerships to develop golf in England.
We would be happy to receive any feedback you wish to provide regarding the England Golf Strategic Plan and any views and any queries can be made by emailing strategy@englandgolf.org.
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UNLIMITED GOLF AT BELHUS PARK From 12noon £5.00 midweek / £10.00 weekend
VISIT OUR GOLF SHOP TODAY Valid 1st January - 28th February 2015
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 winter golf membership £174 For more information call 01728 454926 or email proshop@thorpeness.co.uk | www.thorpeness.co.uk - 27 -
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 - 28 -
K
Keep Warm This Winter With New Kasco Golf Gloves
asco, the specialist golf glove manufacturer, has introduced a new pair of gloves designed to help golfers keep their hands warm and maintain performance in the coldest of conditions this winter. The new Kasco Winter Fit gloves feature a special Heat-Tex material across the knuckles and back of the hand – an innovation that helps to maintain warmth and increase blood flow for the
I
duration of a round. The synthetic material in the palm area of the gloves also provides a strong grip in wet or dry weather conditions. “We know from customer feedback that golfers seek gloves that not only keep their hands warm out on the course, but can also be used to swing the club and hit shots as they would during the summer months,” says Matthew Hazelden, Head of Sales for Kasco in Europe. “The playing-nature of the Winter Fit also means that golfers don’t have to remove the gloves between shots and so they help speed up play during those desperately colder days.” In addition to the warming Heat-Tex material, the Winter Fit gloves also have an elasticated velcro wrist strap designed to minimise the amount of heat escaping from the glove, as well as offering a better fit. For more information on the Winter Fit gloves and all other Kasco models, please visit www.brandfusionltd.co.uk.
Successful Pro-Am at Colchester
t was July when Colchester Golf Club staged another successful PGA East Region Pro-Am tournament. This was the 26th event in the Club’s history, and 49 teams took part in a keenly contested tournament. The event was sponsored for a 4th year by Chris Featherstone and William Anthony of The Knight Group, and Mark Jardine of Poundfield Products, together with additional sponsorship from a host of local businesses.
The Pro-Am helps raise funds for St Helena Hospice and this year was able to donate £6000. Chris Featherstone (Knight Group) and John Alston (Chairman of Poundfield Products) presented the cheque to Stella Fletcher (director of business administration) and Paul Draper (community fundraiser) of St Helena Hospice. Paul thanked the sponsors and the members of Colchester Golf Club for their continued support. The Pro-Am has now raised almost £150,000 for the hospice. The Knight Group and Poundfield Products have committed to sponsoring the event for a fifth year in 2015. Event organiser Hilary Persent would like to thank all the sponsors, the organising committee, volunteers, the members of Colchester Golf Club and the PGA East Region for helping to make this year’s Pro-Am a standout event in the region’s Pro-Am competitions.
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1880
Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club
E R WARM T N I W ER A GREAT OFFER FROM 3rd NOVEMBER 2014 / 27th MARCH 2015 Not available between 19th December, 2014/1st January 2015
MARTELLO COURSE (the 5th Oldest Club in England)
18 holes of GOLF with Full English Breakfast or Fish & Chips (Vegetarian option available) Please Note: Subject to availability * Booking is essential (48 hours minimum notice) * Monday/Friday (not Bank Holidays
£32.00
Golf Buggies may be available for Hire, but are subject to Course conditions
Breakfast from 10.00 am – 3.00 pm • Lunch between 12.00 & 3.00 pm
The Notleys Golf Club
Please book with the General Office – 01394 286 834 www.felixstowegolf.co.uk
Black Notley, Essex 01376 329 328
18 Holes Golf, Tea or Coffee and Bacon Roll £15 must be booked in advance. Book your 2015 Society Days at 2014 prices.
27 Holes Golf. Tea or Coffee, Ham Egg and Chips £20 Mon-Friday £25 weekends Ideal function venue. Foot Golf coming soon, call for details. www.notleysgolfclub.co.uk -- 31 67 --
Winter Special Pay for 18 holes at Hartswood Golf Course after 11am Only £12.50 weekdays, £15 weekends and bank holidays And receive a free cup of Tea and Bacon Roll (from Café in the Park) UNTIL 31 MARCH 2015
Purchase a
20 Round Golf Card before the 31st January 2015 and receive a free box of 12 golf balls (worth £25)
2 for 1 on Casual Play Green Fees at Hartswood Golf Course on production of a receipt from Discount Golf Store* VALID UNTIL 31 MARCH 2015 * RAYLEIGH GOLF RANGE, CHATHAM GOLF RANGE AND THORNDON PARK GOLF STORE
Brentwood Golf Centre at Hartswood King Georges Playing Fields Ingrave Road, Brentwood, Essex CM14 5AE Golf shop and bookings 01277 214 830 Membership enquiries 01277 312 500 - 32 -
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
ISOLATION • VERSUS •
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INTEGRATION
he big question in sport is do we isolate a muscle group or do we use integrated exercises that will work many muscles at once? I see many golfers in particular getting quite confused with “how they should train” that will better their sport. In my opinion, integration with any sport is absolutely key. When talking about golf for example; when taking a shot, there is never just one muscle that brings you back into the back swing, there is never one muscle following through and never ever does 1 muscle work to stoke the ball. Therefore, I feel integrated exercise (those that work more than one muscle at once) will better suit a golfer. I commonly see golfers (especially young golfers) coming up into the gym, doing biceps curls, DB bench presses, pectoral flies and then going home. There is so much emphasis in golf to
build muscle to become stronger and better at striking the ball and hitting it further, I do agree that building strength and muscle helps but most certainly not with just isolation to build specific muscle groups like the exercises above. With any golfer I train, programme and condition I will always use integration exercises to make the body a solid, strong unit then once I feel happy the muscles are strong and strong together working as a team, isolation can come in. Try the following integrated exercises to start off your journey to getting strong and stable; • Squats • Wood Chops • Assisted or non assisted chin/pull ups These are just 3 examples, the list could be endless, seek a fitness professional that can help you develop integrated programmes to follow.
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Lady Captains Drive In
lacton-on-Sea Golf Club’s new Lady Captain Julia Hewett Drove into office on a chilly Tuesday morning. Captain Julia who has been playing golf at the Clacton Club for several years approached the tee with fear and trepidation, steadied herself. However as she said “my nerves got the better of me and I hit the ball straight onto the ditch! Ha ha 62 yards. Never mind, I collected £116 for my charity for my year which is “Sense”.
The perfect place to practice Wonderful Winter Warmers
22 bay floodlit driving range
Open 7am - 9pm everyday
9 Hole ‘pay and play’ golf course
AT
WOODBRIDGE GOLF CLUB
Clubhouse serving excellent food: Mon - Fri 10am - 3pm & 6pm - 9pm Sat 7.30am - 9pm | Sun 7.30am - 3pm
A round on the free draining Heath Course with either a Full English Breakfast or Fish & Chips, handicap certificates required and subject to availability.
Little Channels, Pratts Farm Lane West Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PR T: 01245 361 100 E: info@littlechannelsce.co.uk
ONLY ONLY
£40
Tel: 01394 382 038
www.cliffordsestate.co.uk
www.woodbridgegolfclub.co.uk - 35 -
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Rochford Hundred Golf Club Has a New Head Professional
ichael Vandenberg starts his new role on the 1st January 2015 having moved to the club from his previous Head Professional position at Wyke Green Golf Club in West London. Michael said “I have been planning this move since September and I can’t wait to get stuck in to my new role. I have a lot of great ideas for the new shop and ways to offer my members and visitors fantastic customer service. The club has a whole new Pro-Shop team and we are extremely enthusiastic and will offer a fresh approached to all aspects of golf at the club”. The Pro-Shop itself is having a complete refit which will offer customers a fantastic retail experience and a great product range. Customer service is Michael’s highest priority and his goal is to make sure all his customer’s needs are met if not exceeded. Michael is enthused about moving to Rochford Hundred commenting that “the most exciting
aspect of the shop for my customers is the new state-of-the-art performance studio. The studio will have a Flightscope launch monitor and a V1 video analysis system. The studio will allow me to offer my customers complete piece of mind when it comes to club fitting and a first class coaching experience”. Rochford Hundred is a great club which has a rich history with a very friendly, welcoming membership. Michael is really looking forward to getting to know all the members and welcoming visitors to the club and of course showing off the new shop.
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Michael Vandenberg Head Professional Rochford Hundred Golf Club Pro-Shop: 07813 126 585 Club House: 01702 544 302 Club Website www.rhgc.co.uk
£119
GOLF IN FRANCE HOTEL METROPOLE
Hardelot • Le Touquet • Wimereux • St Omer • Belle Dune • Dunkirk & Nampont St.Martin
pp midweek
£229 pp midweek
£245 pp midweek
WINTER WARMER – 10/3-19/3 MARCH 2015
I night Dinner B&B 2 rounds of golf at St Omer, Wimereux, Le Touquet or Hardelot Tunnel Car + 4
WINTER WARMER MARCH / APRIL 2015
2 nights Dinner B&B 3 rounds of golf at Hardelot, Le Touquet Wimereux or St Omer Tunnel Car + 4 persons
HARDELOT OFFER MAY – OCTOBER 2015 2 nights Dinner B&B 3 rounds - Dunes, Pins, Dunes Tunnel Car + 4
• All inclusive bar deals available. • 4 full sized snooker tables. • English TV for all major football, rugby and sports events.
Offers include: Dinner B&B, Golf, Tunnel – Car + 4 Persons Supps;- Golf - Fri, Sat & Sun.
METROPOLE GOLF BREAKS Call Rosemary 01843 860 748 Mobile 0787 2067 406 Email: rosemary@metropolegolfbreaks.com Website: www.hotel-metropole.co.uk
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Essex County News by Ben Crew, Press Officer, Essex Golf Union Email: crew_ben@hotmail.com Tel: 07763 840 823 www.essexgolfunion.org
Essex Foursomes Championship
First played in 1932 at Rochford Hundred Golf Club the Essex Foursomes was originally played as a 36-hole knockout competition until 1968 and its change to the current medal format.
This years Championship saw a total of 36 teams compete, spanning 29 clubs. The morning’s play was very tight with both Warley Park and The Rayleigh Club posting scores of 71, Warley Park leading on countback.
It was however to be The Rayleigh Club’s day, with this years County Champion Ricky Lee and partner Edward Wisby posting an impressive afternoon 72 to secure victory by 6 shots over Romford’s Louis Lazarus and Tony Ames who were followed by mornings leader Warley Park represented by Ryan Cox and Bailee Curran.
Our thanks to Bentley Golf Club and all that took part.
With this years golfing season now at an end across this side of the pond we look ahead to next years fixtures and events with great enthusiasm.
2015 Club Team Draws
The draws for 2015’s County team competitions took place on the 5th November and saw some great ties set to take place throughout spring next year. For the full draw please visit the EGU website.
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Essex County News by Ben Crew, Press Officer, Essex Golf Union Email: crew_ben@hotmail.com Tel: 07763 840 823 www.essexgolfunion.org
Who is Leading Golf in Essex? (written by President Elect Mike Hart)
The Essex Golf Union is a Limited Company operating from a small office in Witham comprising a salaried secretariat and a board of eighteen volunteer Directors including the President, President Elect, and Treasurer/Company Secretary.The day-to-day running of County amateur golf is broken into various sub-committees, supported by the County Secretary and staff. The sub-committees include the Management committee, Championship and Rules committee, Player Development committee and Course Rating committee.
In addition to the eighteen volunteer board members there are co-opted volunteers assisting in team management and other functions and around twelve County qualified match referees.At any time around thirty volunteer County Officials fulfilling various roles covering team management, officiating at County matches, competitions and championships, assisting County Coaches at coaching sessions, completing course rating assessments or drafting match reports for local media. During the course of each year there around 130 County fixtures involving Essex affiliated clubs, club members or county teams.There are six men’s County teams, each with a dedicated team manager, the under 14, 16 and 18 age groups, Colts and men’s County team along with a Senior’s team. County coaching for juniors is broken down into age groups starting at under 12. The player development coaching structure forms a pyramid structure, with larger groups at low ages percolating up to a smaller elite squad up to age 18.
With so much amateur golf activity in Essex throughout the season County Officials can be very busy, through mid-week with junior and seniors teams and at weekends with adult teams. Many of the County Officials are retired from full time employment; they mostly continue to play golf in between the County golf union schedule. Typically a team manager will spend time communicating with and monitoring progress of players in his team’s age category, this role requires maintaining a data base of top players for that group within the County and selecting the best team available for each inter-county match. County official’s duties may include tournament registration, starters, rules officials, team selection, course rating assessment, representing the county at national level meetings and with other golfing or sporting bodies, attending various County committee meetings or simply being present at a County event ready to deal with arising issues. County officials as volunteers can occasionally be over stretched during the peak summer season but they are never out of pocket in performing these duties as all expenses are reimbursed. The role of a volunteer County Official can be rewarding in many ways and for anyone who enjoys the game of golf and wishes to be involved at the highest level of the amateur game, it is an ideal way of spending leisure time and putting something back into the game. It also offers an opportunity to socialise and learn more about the rules and administration of our wonderful game.
The large majority of golf clubs in Essex (and nationally) choose to affiliate and currently there are 79 affiliated clubs in Essex; with a total membership around 23,000.This membership is currently declining at around 4% each year nationally, not just in Essex. With Men’s County Unions, Ladies County Associations and England Golf, the national body for amateur golf, all funded by club members who pay annual affiliation subscriptions as part of their membership fees, declining membership is a serious threat to the current structure of County and National golf governance.
At national level the administration of amateur golf has merged the ladies golf association and men’s golf union and golf partnership under the single “England Golf” banner; it is a matter of time before similar mergers happen at county or regional level.Today a majority of golf club members have little or - 39 -
Essex County News by Ben Crew, Press Officer, Essex Golf Union Email: crew_ben@hotmail.com Tel: 07763 840 823 www.essexgolfunion.org
no awareness of the three separate County bodies, the Men’s County Union, the Ladies County Association and the County Golf Partnership targeting new golfers. The PGA is visible to most golf enthusiasts through mass media and also being under one global brand, all be it PGA and LPGA. It could be argued that amateur golf should follow this example as this would result in a more identifiable body and the sharing of resources and workload for the volunteer county officials.
The biggest single threat to club golf as we know it is declining membership. Interestingly more people are playing golf but choosing not to join a club - there are many reasons such as economics, social, time, image and appeal. Currently there are around one million unattached golfers in England compared to three quarters of a million club members all playing golf regularly. England Golf have recently launched a “Strategic Plan for England Golf 2014 to 2017”.The centrepiece of this plan is dealing with the threat of declining club membership.
Amateur Golf administration has seen few changes over many years, while the challenges facing the future of amateur golf as we know it are demanding changes. Apart from England Golf’s strategic plan, there are currently changes in the pipeline, mainly for the improvement of the game, such as introduction of a more flexible course rating system in line with USGA, a review of the CONGU handicap process and relaxation of some of the games old formalities. Changes will only happen through club members committees and owners getting involved with the current County Unions and associations and making their voices heard. In Essex and nationally there is always need for some injection of new ideas and in our case this can only happen through evolution of the County Union Board of volunteer Directors. Planning is in progress for an Essex Golf Conference in 2016 “Growing Golf in Essex” targeting Essex Golf Club decision makers.Vacancies on the Essex Golf Union board are filled by club nominated members, elected onto the Board at the AGM each year.There are currently vacancies.
Press Officer Vacancy
The Essex Golf Union is looking to recruit a new Press Officer and welcomes anyone who may be interested to get in contact.
From a personal standpoint my year in the position has been greatly rewarding and I urge any readers who are keen to become involved with the game to apply. You will become an important part of a passionate team and have no shortage of opportunities to meet and communicate first hand with County players, coaches & affiliates alongside maintaining and developing relationships with influential County & National media outlets.
As the Essex Golf Union’s main point of contact with the press the role is needed to ensure concise and effective communication of County golfing news and developments to important media partners, alongside driving forward the reach of our reports to gain maximum exposure for the Union, its teams, players and affiliated clubs.
The position is offered on a voluntary basis and requires no more than a few hours per month of report writing alongside ad hoc day-to-day outbound development work with potential media partners via email/phone.
If you are interested in getting involved and would like to apply, please contact County Secretary Lynda Cartwright on 01376 500 998 or info@essexgolfunion.org. For up-to-date County golf news and forthcoming fixtures please visit the EGU website, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. - 40 -
The Royal And Ancient Golf Club Partners The On Course Foundation
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he On Course Foundation is honoured to announce that for the second year in a row it has been chosen by The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews to be its Christmas charity. All proceeds from sales of its exclusive Christmas Card will be donated to the charity which supports the recovery of wounded, injured and sick Service Personnel and veterans through golf. Each year The Royal and Ancient Golf Club produces a Christmas Card, available for its members to purchase. This year the card is entitled ‘Winter Foursome’ and shows a snowscape of the iconic Royal and Ancient Clubhouse at St Andrews with four children enjoying a snowball fight on the grounds. “We are privileged to be selected by The Royal and Ancient Golf Club as its Christmas Charity,” comments Steve Holt of the On Course Foundation. “We are incredibly grateful for their valuable support, but also for enabling us to raise awareness of the charity. Their endorsement, as well as those of our patrons, Arnold Palmer and HRH Duke of York, is essential in building our profile, which in turn means we can reach even more people.” The artist, Ken Roberts, is himself a resident of St Andrews and is well known for creating colourful and atmospheric landscapes of Fife and the iconic St Andrews skyline. His prize-winning work has twice featured in “International Artist” magazine and is in many private collections in the United Kingdom and the United States of America. Peter Dawson, Secretary of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, commented: “The work that the On Course Foundation does is incredible. They have already reached hundreds of injured service men, women and Veterans and have proven that golf is accessible to everyone. We are inspired by the spirit and determination of their members and encourage others in the industry to support them where at all possible.” The On Course Foundation
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18
beautiful holes of golf
Set in over 300 acres of undulating parkland, with stunning views of the Essex countryside.
Additional par 3 practice course
Societies welcome (Monday - Friday)
Limited membership available
Channels, Pratts Farm Lane East Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT T: 01245 440 005 E: info@channelsce.co.uk
www.cliffordsestate.co.uk
Home Advantage Pays Off For Ryan at The Final of Coastal Golf Tour
F
rinton Golf Club hosted the final Coastal Golf Tour event of the year, sponsored by AJS Energy with players from all venue clubs competed. This was the 9th and final event with Frinton’s Ryan Forecast being crowned stableford order of merit champion. Max Smith from Millers Barn took the scratch award with Charley Hatley also from Millers Barn winning the Jan Eves Trophy girls award. Frinton’s Reece Balls tied with Ryan Forecast for the stableford order of merit title, but Ryan claimed the prize having scored the largest score during the whole tour with 46 points. Max Smith was the clear scratch winner with a 10 point win from Colne Valley’s Thomas Mead. Charley Hatley went into the final round with a lead and kept that lead from Claire Vaughan to take the girls title. The Tour was introduced by Coastal Golf Academy this year in association with their CGA venue clubs to give junior golfers the opportunities to play in friendly but yet competitive competitions and to give them the breeding ground to become the golfers they aspire to be and make many good friends on their golfing journey.
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“THANKS AND SEASONAL GREETINGS TO ALL THE GOLFERS WHO TRUST ME WITH THEIR GAME AND FIND NEW LEVELS”
MARK SHARMAN SPECIALIST COACH “A proven track record with Tour Winners and Beginners”
NOT ALL GOLF LESSONS ARE THE SAME, EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE AND DISCOVER HOW GOOD YOU CAN BE! S Lessons available at Stock Brook Billericay, Leigh and Brentwood Ranges For More Information Contact Mark on 07788 591 340 mark@quantumgolf.co.uk www.quantumgolf.co.uk
N SO S R LE E R MB U E O H DEC 1 FF IN O ED % S 15 A or CH 4 R R U O P
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W INTER PACKAGE ONE OF THE FEW COURSES THAT REMAINS DRY IN WINTER! 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, nor mats.
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 For an additional £3.60 coffee and bacon roll on arrival. Available all week, including weekends, after 10.00am (after 11.30am on Tuesdays) from 1 November 2014 to 31 March 2015 Please book in advance by calling the Professional on 01728 453 309 or email at keith.preston@foremostgolf.com BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL Overnight stays are available at local hotels.
www.aldeburghgolfclub.co.uk - 43 -
The PGA in Essex
Secretary: Colin Reynolds pgainessex@yahoo.co.uk
Chigwell Pro-Am 31st October
Tel: 0771 3926 108 www.pga.info
Swain and Ray Andes.
It was a case of déjà vu at Chigwell Golf Club when the PGA in Essex visited the club for their annual pro-am. In absolutely fantastic weather the pro event was won convincingly by Jason Levermore with a four under par 67 which included 14 pars and four birdies. This was good enough to win by 3 strokes from James Webber of Three Rivers Golf and Country Club and Andy Shakespear of The Warren Golf Club. In the Pro-Am event which had a really strong field of 24 teams, locals took the first four places with the winning team from Chigwell coming in with an impressive 88 stableford points. The team was steered home by James Webber and comprised Chigwell members Andy Ruff, Julian
Braintree Pro-Am 5th November 2014
Despite being played on 5th November, there were no fireworks on the course at the Braintree Pro-Am with a level par 70 from the experienced Steve Cipa of South Essex Golf Centre being good enough to take the Professional prize.Trainee Sam Teer from nearby Clacton Golf Club shot a one over 71 to pick up the runners up cheque and some valuable order of merit points. Four players Mark Stokes, James Webber, Rhys Piper and Mark Talbott tied for joint third on 72. In the team competition, an impressive 83 points from the team of Marc Dodd from Totally Golf won by 3 points from Braintree Professional Steve Hambling.
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. - 44 -
Steve Cipa.
Jason Levermore.
PGA Championships 10th November 2014
Chase Davis.
After being hit by torrential rain in October when the original event was called off after only four holes, the Burstead Golf Club provided pleasant sunshine and light winds for the first of the major events in the Essex calendar. Despite being quite wet underfoot the course was very playable although the scores generally were quite high. The winner with an excellent 4 under par round of 67 was Chase Davis from Stapleford Abbotts Golf Club by one shot from Chris Cutchie of Colchester Golf Club and by three from Steve Cipa of South Essex Golf Centre. Davis started slowly and after the first nine holes was on level par but five birdies in eight holes allowed him the luxury of bogeying the last and still taking his first major title in Essex by one
shot. This win moves Davis into second place in the Order of Merit and within touching distance of leader Jason Levermore. The Seniors competition was won by Steve Cipa and not surprisingly the Trainees prize was taken by Chase Davis who is in his last month before qualifying.
Upcoming Events
Sadly the Pro-Am at Frinton due to be played on 20th November had to be called after incessant heavy rain for several days prior to the event. We look forward to visiting the course when the fixture is rearranged for 2015. On Thursday 27th November we shall be at Rochford Hundred Golf Club for the last Pro/Low am event of 2014 and on Tuesday 9th December the annual Xmas Fayre will take place at Thorndon Park Golf Club. This promises to be an exciting end to the year with a full field of
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FJ Extends Tour-Proven Spikeless Footwear
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Powakaddy’s Winter Wheels Provide Perfect Solution For Off-Season Golf
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owaKaddy is helping golfers prepare for the off-season weather conditions with its 2014 Winter Wheels, which are endorsed by The British and International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association (BIGGA). PowaKaddy’s Winter Wheels feature patented technology, which make them suitable for use with most of the brand’s electric trolleys released in recent years. Designed specifically for use in soft, wet underfoot conditions, they ensure minimal ground contact, which protects the golf course against unnecessary damage. They have been developed in association with both Greenkeepers and course managers in order to avoid issues such as tyre marks, which summer wheels can cause. What’s more, their open tread design also helps to prevent the clogging of debris, allowing you to maintain an orderly car boot more easily. PowaKaddy’s Winter Wheels are suitable for use with the following electric trolley models: FW3, FW5, FW7, SPORT, Freeway Digital, TOUCH, Freeway (Post 2000), Freeway II, Classic Legend, RoboKaddy, Highway www.powakaddy.co.uk
ootJoy, the #1 Shoe and Glove in Golf, has extended its tour-proven DryJoys Casual™ footwear category to include five vibrant colourways for 2015 in a shoe that excels both on and off the course. Representing the ultimate in spikeless shoe technology, DryJoys Casual incorporates a series of advanced technologies to provide unparalleled comfort and stability and, for next year, will feature a range of new colours befitting the season’s fashion trends. Building on the sterling reputation of the DryJoys footwear family, which has been a firm favourite among golfers around the globe for over 20 years, DryJoys Casual will maintain a traditional appearance, while new colour accents will widen its appeal to golfers of all ages and abilities. The new DryJoys Casual will be available from January 2015 with an RRP of £130 in the following colours: white/navy, black/white, white/sky blue, medium brown/tan and white/lime. Key to its outstanding comfort and waterproof protection is the use of Supersoft ECL™ (Extreme Comfort Leather) by Pittards® in the construction of the upper. This extremely soft, breathable and completely watertight material maintains in-shoe comfort, regardless of the exterior conditions. The inclusion of FJ’s proprietary FTF (FineTuned Foam) in the outsole is absolutely critical to both cushioning and stability in DryJoys Casual. This material has been carefully positioned by FJ engineers during development to create a perimeter-weighted outsole, which has given DryJoys Casual outstanding traction properties in a spikeless shoe. www.footjoy.co.uk
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Titleist Introduces New Scotty Cameron Futura X5 and X5R Putters
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TaylorMade Introduces AeroBurner Series
he new Scotty Cameron Futura X5 putters combine a multimaterial construction with a modern, wing back design to provide high-MOI performance in a refined shape. For more than a decade, Master Craftsman Scotty Cameron’s Futura putter designs have delivered performance and stability. The new Scotty Cameron Futura X5 and X5R models provide stability through advanced perimeter weighting with solid, forgiving feel, and vertical and horizontal sightlines for easier alignment. The X5 model is angled in the back, while the X5R features a rounded shape. The Matador Red Midsize grip matches well with the face-balanced mallet design for those players looking to execute a more square-to-square stroke. “The Futura X5 mallet is for someone who likes the stability of a bigger head, the feel of a bigger grip, and likes to look down and see more lines for alignment purposes. X5 is more of a mechanical shape where the X5R is a softer, rounder shape. There’s no right or wrong; same performance, same weight, same feel. It all depends on what you like to look at,” Cameron said. “We’re finding that mallets make up as much as 50 percent of the putters used on the PGA Tour each week – and for good reason. The size of the head is larger so it looks and feels more stable on the ground. The bigger the head, the more lines you can add for alignment.We worked with many players on tour and in the Putter Studio during the development of X5 and they all told us the same thing: It adds confidence.” www.titleist.co.uk
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aylorMade has launched its AeroBurner series with a matte white coloured driver, fairway and rescue club trio that feature an improved Speed Pocket and advanced aerodynamics to promote distance for all player types. AeroBurner metalwoods feature an ‘Aero hosel’, a small fin located at the heel of the club to reduce drag, with a raised centre crown and rounded toe section. TaylorMade says all three of these variables work as a system to improve aerodynamics and lower drag force. The AeroBurner series has the largest Speed Pocket ever, which enhances the sweet spot and protects ball speed on mishits. The AeroBurner driver also features Inverted Cone, a technology used in every TaylorMade driver since the R500 Series in 2002. The Inverted Cone milled into the inner side of the clubface promotes higher ball speed on off-centre hits. Finally, the AeroBurner driver features a light 50-gram Matrix Speed RulZ shaft.The longer, lighter shaft and light grip adds up to less than 300 grams of total club weight, promoting faster swing speed. The AeroBurner metalwood series includes the fairway wood and rescue club, both featuring the largest Speed Pocket in combination with an extremely low and forward centre of gravity (CG). The AeroBurner three metal is equipped with a Matrix Speed RUL-Z 60 (X, S, R flexes) measuring at 43¼ inches. The overall length has been shortened from previous fairway offerings to increase its playability while maintaining the speed from new head advancements. www.taylormadegolf.com
Future Golfing Events & Competitions
03/02/2015
29/07/2015
Pairs Open @ Orsett Golf Club £79.90 per pair. Richard Herring 01375 891 352 www.orsettgolfclub.com. Ladies’ Open @ Stapleford Abbots Golf Club £33.00 per person. Ingrid Clarke 07711 311 022 Email: ingridclarke29@gmail.com.
Attention! Club Secretaries and Competition Organisers: Please forward any info on Future Open Competitions, Golf related Events or Charity days at Essex Golf Clubs to info@essexgolfer.com Visit our live up to date events page at www.essexgolfer.com - 47 -
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.
G R A P H I T E I R O N S H A FTS
THE GOOD GOOD, THE BAD & THE UGLY. Over the years I have written quite a bit about irons shafts with regards to weight, flex and bend profile but this has always generally referred to steel. So, graphite iron shafts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the good, the bad and the ugly! - 48 -
Let’s start with the Ugly
Cheap, poor quality graphite shafts. This type of product is really detrimental to a golfers performance. In fact in some cases this type of product is almost unplayable due to the fact that you need your iron shafts to be matched together as a set, poor quality equals inconsistency so essentially rather than having a set of irons you end up with a set of heads with different shafts in – even though they all look the same. Paint is a powerful thing, as many ‘budget’ shafts have very little graphite in them at all, fibreglass and resin are the main materials with only just enough graphite to be able to use the graphite name.When it comes to graphite shafts you really do get what you pay for.
The Bad
Marketing. I think graphite iron shafts are marketed towards lady or senior golfers or any golfer looking for more swing speed. Not true, any golfer can play graphite but swing speed is found in playing the correct shaft for you, irrespective of material. Weight choices have always been an issue with graphite iron shafts but that is currently changing, but more of that in a minute. Also, many golfers opinion of graphite iron shafts are that they are very ‘whippy’ – 15 years ago that may have been the case but now graphite shafts can be made to any flex.
The Good
Graphite is great for elbow or wrist injuries as the material transfers hardly any vibration from impact to the golfer. Shaft weights (measured in grams) start at around 40 grams, ideal for any player who’s wrists are not very strong and struggles to support the club at the top of the swing – but here is the cool part, graphite shafts now come in weights of over 100 grams so no other shaft material offers a more varied weight range – they are actually heavier than many steel shafts! It’s in this category that you will start to see more accomplished players starting to use graphite as up till now the shaft weight has always been too light. Graphite also gives you lots of options when custom building irons. In the past I have built irons with 50g shafts in the long irons, 60g shafts in the mid irons and 70g shafts in the short irons.This gave a higher flight in the longer clubs that transitioned to a stronger flight in the shorter irons. This actually gives you a very good snapshot of the golf industry, steel shaft manufacturers are trying to make lighter shafts and the graphite manufacturers are trying to make heavier shafts – so not too confusing there then!
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One For The Record
our Cornwall golfers are surely heading, for the record, books after they each scored a hole-inone in the same competition. The fab four – Alan Wiltshire, John Brook, Tony Saunders and Dave Evans – were all playing in a seniors’ betterball competition at St Austell Golf Club when they proceeded to make very short work of the par threes. A total of 81 players took part in the competition and Dave Webber, the seniors’ competition secretary, commented: “Four holes in one! We can’t believe it and we’d love to know if it’s a record.”
First to make his mark was Alan Wiltshire, a 20handicapper, who used a seven-iron to ace the 171-yard second hole. Alan, 74, has now had seven holes-in-one, including one in the seniors’ previous competition. He was followed by John Brook, who plays off 28 and also aced the second hole, in his case with an eight iron. It was his first hole in one. John, 72, had a kidney transplant five years ago. Third to score was Tony Saunders, a 24handicapper, who used a pitching wedge on the 104-yard 16th. Tony, 62, and his partner John Blamey, finished second in the competition with 43 points. This was Tony’s second hole in one. Dave Evans was playing in the same fourball as Tony Saunders and followed him into the hole on the 16th, where he used a rescue club. Dave, who plays off 28, is 89 and the oldest member of the senior section. He has had one other hole-in one, back in 1975. The feat was celebrated with free drinks for all in the clubhouse, paid for by the seniors’ hole-inone fund. The four ace players will also each receive a trophy at the annual presentation dinner on December 5.
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1. A set of limited edition Thomas Bjorn 1997 Ryder Cup Commemorative Clubs (The Valderrama Collection) along with a full certificate of authentication. Furthermore, there is a picture of Thomas Bjorn suited and sitting on the arm of a chair that he has personally signed, along with the words ‘Iron Set No.9’ - the set of which I have. Alongside these items there is an article in the ‘Golf World Magazine’ from 1997 that discusses the Valderrama Collection, the original Official Programme for the 1997 Ryder Cup and a second picture of Thomas Bjorn playing golf, which he has also signed.
2. Tiger Woods Grand Slam Signed Nike Golf Ball and Four Pictures with Full Certificate of Authenticity in a Display Frame.
3. Two Cartoons – ‘The Outside Agency’ and ‘The Beginner’ by ‘Chaz’ (Mister Swan Ltd).
4. St. Andrews Links Limited Edition (Number 3 of only 10) Gold Plated ‘Golden Eagle Putter’ in a Beautiful Mahogany and Brass Inlay Display Case with Full Signed Certificate of Authenticity. Furthermore there is a letter from Danny Campbell, the Retail Manager at the time, outlining the reasons as to why the club was commissioned.
5. Two Signed, Framed Photographs. One of Tony Jacklin and another of Sam Torrance. Both of the signatures are addressed to ‘The Bear’, I am not 100% as to who this may be, but I have an idea it could be Jack Nicklaus. 6. A Print Signed by ‘Bailey’ of a man trying to play golf, but distracted by a woman.
7. Six beautiful place mats all displaying a depiction of a golf course, namely Prestwick, Turnberry, St. Andrews, Muirfield, Carnoustie and Royal Troon alongside statistics about each course. 8. Framed Evolution of the Wood Picture – depicting a ‘McGregor Master Driver (1922)’, a ‘Walter Hagen Starline with Aluminium Pin’ and a Club from The ‘St. Andrews Golf Company’.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss anything further. Telephone: Arthur Hodges 01702 352 460. - 50 -
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: Golf Bag – Wilson Ionix – double straps and loads of pockets (carry bag) red/black/white – very good condition – rarely used. £45. Tel: Phil – 02085 051 974 – IG9
FOR SALE: Single ride on buggy, Hillman Pro Rride. (2 new batteries cost over £200) can't play anymore MS progressed, will take £600. Brentwood Essex Tel: 07860 676 754 g.asquith997@btinternet.com does break down to go in boot.
FOR SALE: Taylormade R1driver excellent condition comes with original headcover and tool wrench. Tel: Stuart 07812 017 129. Hullbridge stuart.wild1@btinternet.com FOR SALE: Silver Powakaddy golf trolley with a good battery, charger and umbrella holder attached. In good working condition £80 or offer. Patrick Peters, 3 The Durdans, Langdon Hills, Basildon SS16 6DA Tel: 01268 414 045. FOR SALE: R/H Callaway big Bertha 2006. Irons SW to 4 regular graphite shafts In good condition. £100.00 ono.R/H Ping G20 driver, regular graphite shaft 10.5 degree, plus head cover. In good condition. £100.00 ono. Tel: Keith 01992 764 964 (Waltham Abbey).
FOR SALE: Ping G5 Irons Graphite shaft 4 to s/w Red Spot good condition. £250. Black Stylo Golf Shoe size 10 brand new not used, steel spikes ideal for winter conditions £15. Tel: 01268 548 466.
FOR SALE: TITLEIST 910 fd 15 degree 3 wood. Upgraded shaft. DIAMANA "AHINA" flex "x"£50.Tel. 01376 321 329.
FOR SALE: Ladies Callaway Hawkeye Tungsten-Injected Titanium irons Graphite Lady gem shafts 3 iron to PW plus Callaway carry golf bag.Very good condition £125. Tel: Theresa 07759 374 887. FOR SALE: Set of mens Ping Eye irons with putter and bag £50. Tel: 01277 823 647.
FOR SALE: Golf Bag with Vantage Woods 1,3 & 5. IVC 2000 Irons 3 – SW, Tour 17 degree Chipper, Wilson Putter £50. Tel: Dave 07590 204 234 (Wickford). FOR SALE: Set of mens Ping Eye irons with putter and bag £50. Tel: 01277 823 647. FOR SALE: Golf Bag with Vantage Woods 1,3 & 5. IVC 2000 Irons 3 – SW, Tour 17 degree Chipper, Wilson Putter £50. Tel: Dave 07590 204 234 (Wickford).
FOR SALE: RH Titleist 909F 13.5 degree. Also 909H 17 degree. Ping G5 22 degree hybrid. Callaway Big Bertha Steelhead III 3 wood. Taylor Made Rescue Mid 19 degree. Separate sales £25 each ono. Sunderland Waterproof trousers – medium 32 inch leg. £10.Richard 01375 678 660. FOR SALE: Full set magreger carbon shaft golf clubs vgc £50. Tel Dave 01708 456 855.
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FOR SALE: FULL SET, comprising: Callaway Big Bertha irons (inc Sand, Pitch and Lob wedges) Odyssey White Hot Rossie putter Set Taylor Made R580 Fairway woods (3,5 & 7) all with head covers Big Bertha 12" Steelhead Driver with cover Big Bertha Stand bag.All in excellent condition. £245.00 o.n.o. Tel: 07774 278 991.
FOR SALE: Big Bertha 460 10" Driver with head cover £45 Callaway Big Bertha 'Heaven 7' Fairway wood £25 Taylor Made Burner 4 Rescue 22" £35 Mizuno Rescue 5 26" £35. Tel: 07774 278 991.
FOR SALE: Full set of Irons – regular shaft, Lynx Black Cat MTW R/H 3 - SW, good condition £35.00 Tel: 01245 323 087.
FOR SALE: Motocaddy 3 wheel push trolley with white/red, motocaddy golf bag -both 3 years old £65.00, Titleist 913 D2 Driver 10.50, Diamana Regular Shaft, hardly used £175.00, Ping G2 driver 11.50, Prolaunch Blue Shaft £25.00. Tel: 07765 125 510.
FOR SALE: Cleveland Hi Bore Monster Driver 12degree Draw XLS Fujikura A shaft with matching 3 wood. Original headcovers, new grips all VGC £75 the pair. Tel: 01376 561 292 Coggeshall. FOR SALE: Ping G5 Irons Graphite shaft 4 to s/w Red Spot good condition. £250. Black Stylo Golf Shoe size 10 brand new not used, steel spikes ideal for winter conditions £15. Tel: 01268 548 466.
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The Jubilee Cup
Update from Jubilee Cup Committee, sponsored by Seabrook Warehousing, and reported by Chairman Phil Redhead
he Committee here are very much focussing on looking forward to the 2015 competition in which we have confirmed the final 43 entrants for the Jubilee Cup competition. The full 2015 Draw will be shown in the next edition of Essex Golfer, and since this was being drawn in December it will also be on our website www.jubileecup.com As Chairman of the competition I get to work with some great guys, and above is a picture of Committee members Colin Firth (former Chairman, on left) and Neil Mitchell, with myself in the middle at the Final presentation meal with our hallowed trophy. However we are excellently supported by others on the committee who just could not be at the final, including our web guru Christer Stenbacka (SBM), Secretary Neil Wells (RHGC), and Treasurer Alan Tindall (Colchester). I am always on the look-out for support, so please reach out to me if you want to get involved and help shape our competition. We are also still are in celebratory mode for our successful 2014 competition too with some of our trophy-giving still taking place at our participant clubs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and with us having had 897
participatory players in the 2014 Well Done to Warley Park who are the 2014 Jubilee Cup CHAMPIONS! A brilliant two-year record of excellent golf in the Jubilee Cup was represented by the Singles Order of Merit competition. See picture below â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Spencer Bond being presented his Jubilee Cup Individual Order of Merit Trophy, by Playgolf Team Captain Matthew Milburn (Far left) and Playgolf Colchester Club Captain Philip Reeve (far right) at the Playgolf Colchester prize giving night in November.
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In addition, the Pairs Order of Merit competition results have been well represented in November. See picture below – John Shade, Winner of the Jubilee Cup Pairs Order of Merit on right, and, on left is Tony,Vose Club Captain of Stock Brook Manor.
And finally for now we have the Runners Up of the Jubilee Cup Pairs Order of Merit, Stuart Waterman and Paul Thompson from Channels Golf Club, with Jubilee Committee member Neil Mitchell in the middle.
As a Committee we are enthused that so many Essex clubs and players are so enthralled and invested in our competition, and we are all looking forward to the 2015 Season. Please do come through to me if you would like to take part in supporting the competition, please spread the word to other clubs for the 2016 competition, and check out the website for our Rules, Results Cards and the full draw which will be up early in December. Best regards Phil
Extensive Ipswich Golf Club Bunker Renovation is Ahead of Schedule
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he first phase of an extensive bunker renovation at Ipswich Golf Club has been completed ahead of schedule with four holes reopened for play. The renovation, which is being carried out by world-renowned course architect Martin Hawtree, grandson of Fred who designed the bunkering on the original course 88 years ago, will be implemented over a number of years. Phase one involved the closing of one hole, the third, while another three – holes one, five and 18 – were in play, but with temporary greens. The phase was not due to be completed until Christmas. However, six weeks ahead of schedule, the work has been completed with all four holes now open for play on the main greens. Neill Ellice, Ipswich Golf Club General Manager, said: “To have the work completed and the greens back in action so far ahead of schedule is great news for members and visitors alike. “We are thankful for the warm weather we experienced through September and October, which enabled the new turf to develop solid root growth.” While the greens are back in action all bunkers on the holes will remain out of play as compulsory areas of Ground Under Repair, meaning balls cannot be played or retrieved. To guard against any players losing their valuable golf balls, the club has arranged a bucket of ‘practice’ golf balls on the tees for players to use. Therefore, should they hit a ball into the bunker, which they cannot retrieve, they will not lose a ball. Visitors to Ipswich Golf Club will be able to play the famed Purdis Heath Course, ranked within the top 100 golf courses in England by influential publication Golf World and website top100golfcourses.co.uk, this winter at an outstanding rate of just £20, Monday to Friday (subject to prior booking). www.ipswichgolfclub.com
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Five Lakes Captains Drive-In
he rain did not dampen the Drive-In of Roger Hyman, Five Lakes captain for the 2014/2015 season. With mulled wine and a magnificent buffet to welcome the players’ home after a very wet Turkey Trot Stableford competition. Matt Foot claimed both the scratch and handicap prizes with 40 points off his 5 handicap. Russell Smith (15) took second place honours with 38 points from Mark Ponder (8) on 37 points and Andy Lee (14) with 35 points. Fortunately the rain eased as ex-captain John Mayle took 3-strokes to putt-out and Captain Joe Hart. Roger braved the gallery
NSPCC Putter 18 Hole 3 Man Texas Scramble At Five Lakes
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layed on the Lakes course and providing a strong test for all the players. The team of Mike Owen,Andy Clover and Mark Ponder carded a nett 62.86 followed by Nigel Popper, Richard Hardy-King and Matt Somerville with 62.43 both these groups were outside the main prizes. Freddie Coe, Alan Garnett and Andy Gilbert playing off a combined handicap of 5.57 returned a nett claimed 3rd place on count back, 2nd slot went to Tony Cook, Ian Kirkman and Ian Cottee with a combined handicap of 5.85 carding a nett61.15 however winners of the prestigious putter were Dave Chignell, Matt Foot and Malcolm Pook with combined handicap of 3.4 returning a nett 60.6. The competition raised over £150.00 for the NSPCC.
for his Drive-In. Roger astounded the crowd by hitting his first ball 180 yards onto the fairway! Earlier, on the Links course, saw another captain handover with Joss Saunders handing over the Junior Captaincy to 15 yearold Joe Hart with Joss putting-out and Joe hitting 188 yards on his drive-in. The supporting Mulligan competition was won by Tom Vass with an incredible 51 points – six mulligans used very wisely. Five Lakes members wish Roger, Joe and new Lady Captain Sarah Mann every success in the coming year. Roger Hyman.
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Poppy Appeal At Colchester
Gill Minns, Jane Madge and the ladies Captain Fiona Prentice.
ane Madge and Gill Minns had a clear victory in Colchester Golf Club’s ladies foursomes for the Poppy Appeal last weekend at the club. Returning a stableford score of 30 points they were two points clear of the next pairing. Minns and Madge’s half combined handicap being 20, they were always going to be a team to beat, and so it proved to be with the second place being taken by Liz Duthie and Pip Macauley, who carded 28 points from their team handicap 20. The course is now showing signs of the recent rains and as a consequence, the scores reflected this with the holes playing long. Pat Kettle and her partner Claire Croger who from their team handicap of 22 returned 27 points took third spot. In total 68 women took part.
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A Festive Weekend at Three Rivers Golf Club
arah Bennett PGA Head Teaching Professional at Three Rivers Golf Club held her annual weekend of festivities despite the torrential rain! Her Family day was well attended and was played over the perfectly suited Jubilee course for the new players with a meal and presentation afterwards. The secret Santa is something the juniors look forward to with the presents being opened straight away! This was the first year the event was played for a Trophy which was kindly donated by one of the parents Lee Nearey, who also donated the parental/Junior prize of a meat tray which was the perfect festive prize. The event is open to non- members and to those with no handicaps and is played under a specially designed format and shortened course. Sarah’s Golfing Girl Festive day which included a number of Bennett’s birdies from 5 years ago was held despite horrendous weather. A very shortened few holes were plenty before the flooding took effect. However, this did not deter from the day with Sarah having plenty of contingencies in place! The food was first class as
always and this is the highlight of Sarah’s Golfing Girl programme.
All smiles despite the weather!
Sarah’s get into golf ladies programme which she commenced 5 years ago at Three Rivers Golf Club has been growing each year with a number of activities already full for 2015. However there will be more dates added which can be accessed via SarahBennettGolf.co.uk on her Events page or visiting Sarah Bennett Golf on Facebook. Her regular newsletter and blog can be both signed up to via her site too which keeps you up to date with all the latest news Sarah’s GolfingGirl group lessons for new player’s commence in January and are already filling up due to the popularity with the fun element at large.
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Vice Presidents Jo Davies (Risebridge) and Phyllis Stilwell (Maylands).
round 150 past and present Lady Captains will go towards the annual donation and trophies from 33 clubs across the County descended for the Essex County Girls Championship. Thanks on the Rayleigh Club in early November, not for also to the management and staff at The Rayleigh Club for hosting the event and a customary round of golf but, for an looking after us all so well on the day. Anniversary Lunch of the Society of 2014 has been a fabulous year for Essex Lady Captains. This was the final the Society, Jan Collier Lady event in a busy calendar celebrating President and members of the their 60th anniversary year. In Committee thank all their members addition to the usual five golfing for their support during the year at meetings and 5 friendly matches both golfing and social events. An during the year members were excellent programme is planned for treated to a special Away Day Team 2015, and the Society looks forward event in Suffolk, a special 9 hole to welcoming both existing and new competition and the 60th Anniversary Our celebratory balloons. members to the events. Lunch. On the day, after a welcome drink, the ladies Membership Renewals and Applications for, enjoyed a delicious three-course lunch. Jennie Meetings and Friendly matches will be sent to all Wilson of Three Rivers Golf & CC kindly existing members and new Lady Captains by volunteered to tell some jokes, and the main the end of January. Information will also be entertainment of the afternoon was Bob's Barber available to download on their website Shop Boys from Leigh on Sea. Thanks to all the www.essexladycaptains.wordpress.com ladies for supporting the raffle on the day, proceeds from early February. - 56 -
DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR
FREE OF CHARGE Application by email only, or via our website (UK POSTCODES ONLY) please send your name and address to
info@essexgolfer.com - 57 www.essexgolfer.com
QHotels Acquires six former De Vere Hotels and De Vere Luxury Lodges
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Hotels has added six former De Vere Hotels and De Vere Luxury Lodges to its portfolio. With the addition of Cameron House; Dunston Hall; Oulton Hall; Mottram Hall; Slaley Hall; and Belton Woods, QHotels expands portfolio to 27 hotels. Already part of QHotels are The Westerwood Hotel & Golf Resort, Nr Glasgow; Aldwark Manor Golf & Spa Hotel, Nr York; Forest Pines Hotel & Golf Resort. North Lincolnshire; Telford Hotel & Golf Resort, Shropshire; and Hellidon Lakes Hotel & Golf Resort, Northamptonshire The QHotels brand is looking to strengthen its nationwide presence and complement its award winning guest offer with premium golf, spa and leisure facilities. The six hotels, located across the UK include the luxury 5-star Cameron House in Loch Lomond and the Elizabethan-style Dunston Hall in picturesque Norfolk. They will be managed alongside the existing QHotels portfolio of 21 hotels led by Managing Director Michael Purtill
and Finance Director Ian Goulding. Michael Purtill commented: “This is a really positive move that will help drive long-term, sustained growth for the QHotels brand. The 6 hotels are an excellent fit as they are renowned for their first-rate facilities, catering and service. This aligns with our guest-first ethos and enables us to effectively expand our UK reach. “We will be working with each hotel on an individual basis to ensure we build on the best of what they have to offer and complementing this with our experience and expertise. This will help to maximise the conference and events potential of each of the hotels, while strengthening our portfolio in terms of a wider golf, spa & leisure offering.” With investment earmarked for each of the six hotels over the coming months, the hotels will be integrated into the QHotels portfolio. For a complete description of the golf courses now operated by QHotels see www.qhotels.co.uk/golf/our-courses
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MerlintouchTM is a Wizard with Flexible Memberships
ith an increasing number of clubs introducing flexible membership schemes, Club Systems International (CSI), the UK and Ireland’s leading producer of golf club IT systems, has seen a surge in the use of its MerlinTouch™ loyalty card system. Since its launch in 2005, MerlinTouch™ has become the most successful EPoS Loyalty Card System in UK and Ireland sporting and membership clubs. But its ability to cope with an increasing number of flexible membership packages, particularly in the golfing arena – and at no extra cost – has been the catalyst for increased usage. And, as always with the MerlinTouch™, it integrates smoothly with CLUB2000® software and, now, CSI’s new cloud-based ClubV1 administration system. Club Systems International’s sales manager, Hilary Clamp, explained: “Flexible memberships are proving increasingly popular in golf, as members find they simply can’t justify a full membership package, and our systems are able to handle these with ease. “The MerlinTouch™ system is able to illustrate the different membership categories on receipts for purchases or green fees. Installing a Mini-Merlin in the shop allows the club professional to collect the green fees and has numerous other advantages for both the pro and the member. These include flexible discount profiles, individual member turnover reports, preferential discount rates for high consumption members, along with automatic discount rate changes with increased turnover.You can also include stock control.” Using MerlinTouch™ enables clubs to increase their standard price at the point of sale, charging non-members more, while retaining a lower member cost via an automatic discount – and the same mechanic applies to the flexible membership if appropriate. “The system is easy to operate and relatively low in cost to install. The daily EPOS reports provide all the financial and statistical information
required. We see this type of membership being further extended in the future as members’ lifestyles change.” www.clubsystems.com
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First For Peter O
n the 30th October 2014 Jeff Lighten aged 69 scored his first ever hole in one at the par 3 18th hole at Stapleford Abbots Priors course. Jeff who has been playing golf for 35 years stunned his playing partner, Peter Welch, by picking up 5 stableford points at the last hole to win the match. Well done Jeff, and thanks for the drinks at the 19th!!
For your FREE advert in Holiday Golf, E-mail no more than 50 words with your details to info@essexgolfer.com For more listings go to www.essexgolfer.com FOR SALE: BELEK ANTALYA TURKEY, 5 Bed Semi-Detached Villa 3Double 2Single Fully Furnished Air con Solar Panels Communal Swimming pools Own Garden And Parking space Great rental potential It is across the road from Cornelia Golf Course and close to many others, £65.000 ONO for quick sale due to ill health For more details and photos e-mail imck@btinternet.com.
FOR RENT: Stunning 2 bed rental apartment at La Torre Golf Resort, Murcia, Spain (Jack Nicklaus designed), free wi-fi, aircon & overlooking pool complex only a short drive to miles of sandy beaches. Ideal for golfers/families. Apartment rental prices start from £260 per week: www.murcia-golf.net or phone: Colleen 07702 988 600. FOR SALE: A weeks stay in a luxury lodge at The Carrick on Loch Lomond starting 7th July, The lodge is set within lovely surroundings, overlooks the golf course and full use of the facilities at Cameron house are available, £2000 ono, normally £3400 for this week. Tel: 07854 980 509.
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 per week, long term rental available – please email lee_hibell@hotmail.com. FOR RENT: 3 bedroom apartment (sleeps 6) in Marbella Spain located on the highly regarded Los Arqueros Golf & Country club. Private garden and 2 swimming pools. 45 minutes from Malaga Airport. 20 golf courses within 20 minute drive. Email Darren at isaacs976@aol.com for further info.
FOR SALE: 1 week Timeshare in June, St Mellion Golf and Country Club, Cornwall. Spacious lodge with two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, lounge, fully equipped kitchen, separate dining room. Sleeps 6. Includes 2 rounds of golf on week days £2500 ono. Contact 01206 247 043 or mel_barker@btinternet.com.
FOR SALE: Barham Broom, Norfolk. Time share.1 bed appartment sleeps 4, 2 Golf Courses, Swimming pool, Gym, Squash, Tennis courts. Week 37 – 2ND Week in September. £435 yearly Maintenance – Paid for 2014 Free Golf for 4. £1000 O.N.O. Contact: 01708 448 849.
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 RENT: Costa-del-golf Spain Villacana.30 mins from Malaga/gibraltar.1 bed house.sleeps two.swimming pools and beach...bars and restaurants close to village cancelada.golf courses...el parariso. flamingos. atalaya casares and lots more.email jeffloughran@sky.com Tel: 01268 753 330.
FOR RENT: One bedroom apartment,(sleeps 4) on the Seve Ballesteros designed golf course at the 5 star Oliva Nova Golf and Beach Resort.One hour from Alicante or Valencia airports. Two minutes walk to the Club House, Blue Flag Beach, Bars, small supermarket and spa. Contact: Pamela and Alan Linger on 01376 573 259 or olivagolf@hotmail.com. - 59 -
FOR SALE: Luxury log cabin sleeps 8 with balcony at Belton Woods De Vere Lincolnshire Golf Resort, week 23 (June 9th) overlooking 2 golf courses. olfers enjoy free swimming pool and gym, also ideal for families. Price £6,500.ono. Annual maintenance £650. reluctant sale. Phone 01992 576 789 Barbara Hall or email b.hall789@btinternet.com. 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.
FOR RENT: Costa Del Sol,150 yards to 1st tee,2 bedroom,2 bathroom apartment at royal golf miraflores;2 swimming pools, video entry, Sky TV. For more info call Geoff on 07723 074 809 or email me at geoffrey.arnold1@btinternet.com. FOR RENT: The Fairhaven Lake Lodge in Lytham St Annes. A luxury 4* star property within a 5 minutes’ walk of Royal Lytham golf course and easy reach of 3 other championship qualifying courses. Sleeps 6-8 to people and available all year round. For more info contact me at pauljlanigan@gmail.com.
FOR SALE: Time-share 2 bedroom apartment for 2 weeks in September at the Alto golf & country club, Alvor on the Algarve. (golf available at a discount). Beautifully maintained grounds, facilities with in-door & outdoor pools, tennis, restaurant, bar etc. Annual maintenance fee £480 per week. Asking price £3000 for 2 weeks. Peter Maris TEL 01992 572 777 email: petermaris@btinternet.com.
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 - 60 -
PGA Pros On Parade
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number of unsung PGA pros have been playing a small but important part in rehabilitating some of Britain’s injured servicemen through the PGA Golf Buddy Programme. Around 50 pros are involved in the nationwide grass roots initiative which gives injured soldiers the opportunity to play golf and have free coaching in the heart of their community as they go about rebuilding their lives Birchwood Park Golf Club, Dan Humble, Headley Court, Ian Harrison, PGA Golf Buddy following life-changing Programme, Pontypool Golf Club, Sandy Jones, Sarah Bennett, Tedworth House, Terry Gosden, injuries sustained in Three Rivers Golf and Country Club,Tidworth Garrison Golf Club. action. “It’s about self confidence, self esteem, the A number of rehabilitation centres use golf as setting of targets relative to their rehabilitation,” part of the recovery process including Surrey’s she said. Headley Court and Wiltshire’s Tedworth House “And when we the run the competitions the and the Golf Buddy programme is a community competitive nature is soon brought out.At the end support-based facility. of the day, if someone wants to play, injured or Among the pros on the programme is Terry otherwise, we are providing an opportunity to play Gosden, the long-serving head PGA Professional in a competitive and fun environment. That’s my at Tidworth Garrison Golf Club in Wiltshire, who personal goal and it is amazing to see the impact works closely with nearby Tedworth House. golf can have.” “Many of the soldiers have suffered terrible Dan Humble from Birchwood Park Golf Club injuries but perhaps even more profound is the in Kent echoed Bennett’s sentiments. “I taught a psychological damage,” said Gosden. couple of soldiers and you can see how playing “This was brought home to me this year with golf was helping them back into society. Many of one soldier who had some serious leg injuries them find it difficult to talk about what’s happened from a roadside explosion and he explained that and golf is a route back.” golf was the one thing that stopped him thinking Pontypool Golf Club’s new head pro Ian about what happened to him in Afghanistan. Harrison, who is another to have given his time, “As I got to know him through the lessons he added: “The soldier I’ve coached suffers from post explained how psychologically he was still traumatic stress disorder and I just try to make it struggling. He revealed how he had gone to a a bit of fun and golf gives him something to wedding and somebody had popped a balloon and concentrate on and take his mind off things. he’d dived for cover under some chairs because “Giving up an hour of my time every couple of he thought it was an explosion.” weeks is nothing and it’s rewarding to see him Sarah Bennett from Three Rivers Golf and come along and thrash a few balls and get Country Club in Essex has thrown herself into the enjoyment out of golf.” project and her efforts including creating an annual Visit www.PGA.info for the latest PGA tournament for soldiers to play in. News and tournament information - 61 -
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Algarve Disabled Golf Open A Huge Success
urope’s leading golf destination, the Algarve, enjoyed a feast of superb golf from the world’s finest impaired golfers last week, when the seasonending European Disabled Golf Association Algarve Open took place at stunning Pestana Vila Sol. The event was launched to coincide with the Algarve Tourism Association’s (ATA) new ‘golf4all’ initiative – which seeks to showcase the Algarve as a fully-inclusive tourism attraction for golfers of all ages and abilities and for tourists from across the globe. The event was won by Frenchman CharlesHenri Quélin, who has +2 handicap and plays with a fused right arm, after he shot incredible rounds of 79 and 75 (gross) to win by two shots from Lescut. Tony Bennett, president of the EDGA said: “The EDGA Algarve Open may have closed the 2014 season for the participants of the annual EDGA ranking, but it has opened a new chapter for both the Algarve and the players who regularly compete on the EDGA tour.
European Golf Destination. “The Associação Turismo do Algarve made this the opening event of their golf4all initiative and we are so pleased to know that we will be back in 2015 on two occasions to play EDGA tournaments in the Algarve.” A spokesperson for ATA added: “We are absolutely delighted with the success of the EDGA Algarve Open, and we cannot wait to welcome the competitors back for next year’s event, in April and November. “With our ‘golf4all’ campaign, we are committed to highlighting just why the Algarve is one of Europe’s most popular, welcome and inclusive golf destinations. “The golf course was superb, the players all had a fantastic time and of course, the standard of golf was exceptionally high. You cannot help but being hugely inspired by the quality of the golf the men and women of the EDGA Tour play.” www.edgagolf.com
Number 1 Selling Driver in United States and United Kingdom in September
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“The officials and players have been full of praise for the event, and the players were delighted to test themselves against such a good golf course and were also very impressed by the courteous service that they received at every stage of their visit. “From the reception that the players received on arrival at the airport, the service of both hotel and golf course staff and the attention to detail from the Associação Turismo do Algarve, each interaction was a great reminder that the Algarve really does deserve its award as 2014 Best
n only its second month on the market, the PING G30 driver achieved the #1 sales position for units and dollars in the on- and off-course retail channels combined for the month of September in the United States and the United Kingdom, according to Golf Datatech LLC, which tracks golf equipment sell-thru data for both regions. The driver, which features an industry-first innovation called Turbulator Technology on the club’s crown, was introduced to golfers on July 31. Since its launch, demand for the driver has reached unprecedented levels for the company throughout the world as golfers realize increased clubhead and ball speeds, leading to more distance. The G30 driver also features the highest MOI of any PING driver ever designed to ensure golfers the accuracy and consistency to hit more fairways. www.ping.com
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