March 2014 by Essex Golfer Ltd

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Host venue to the 2013 Essex PGA Championships

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

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JOIN IN MARCH AND RECEIVE

14 MONTHS

FOR THE PRICE OF 12 TO JOIN PLEASE CALL THE SALES TEAM ON 01245 223258 or email sales@thewarrenestate.co.uk

OPEN DAY SERIES Friday 21st March Saturday 5th April Sunday 13th April Â&#x2021; HOURLY TOURS 10AM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2PM Â&#x2021;

The Warren Golf & Country Club is excited to announce our series of Spring Open Days. t +PJO VT PO B HVJEFE UPVS BSPVOE 5IF 8BSSFO &TUBUF UP TFF UIF TUVOOJOH DPVSTF DIBOHFT BOE UIF VQDPNJOH QMBOT GPS UIF OFX TFBTPO t " HSFBU PQQPSUVOJUZ UP BTL RVFTUJPOT BOE LOPX NPSF BCPVU NFNCFSTIJQ HPMG TPDJFUJFT PS KVTU B EBZ UP QMBZ t 3FDFJWF B voucher for a free round of golf BU 5IF 8BSSFO BGUFS ZPVS PQFO EBZ UPVS

BOOK NOW BY CALLING THE SALES TEAM ON 01245 223258 or email sales@thewarrenestate.co.uk The Warren Golf and Country Club, Woodham Walter, Nr Maldon, Essex, CM9 6RW Tel: 01245 223258 www.warrengolfclub.co.uk

THE BURSTEAD GOLF • CLUB

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

WELL DONE OLLIE South Africa's Thomas Aiken beat Oliver Fisher of Essex, at the first hole of a playoff to win the Africa Open at the East London GC last month – his first career triumph on home soil.

Winter Special

Aiken (67) and Fisher (69) finished tied together on 20under-par after 72 holes, although Ollie saw a putt for victory just slide past the cup on his final hole in regulation.

18 holes & Chef Special Weekday £25 / Weekend £30 Offer available from 11.00am

That meant the duo went down the parfour 18th for a second time to decide the tournament and, with Fisher facing a 12foot putt for par, Aiken stepped in to seal victory in style by rolling home from 40 feet for a birdie-three. Ollie picked up a cheque for €115,000 for this European Tour Event; let’s hope this great finish sets him up for a successful winning year.

Tony Hawkins

Visitors Welcome Twilight from 12.00pm

Essex Golfer Magazine 7c Perry Road, Freebournes Industrial Estate, Witham, Essex CM8 3UD Tel: 01621 815 577 Email:- info@essexgolfer.com www.essexgolfer.com

Monday - Friday £18 Saturday - Sunday £22 Contact pro shop for tee time reservations

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.

For further information on society deals please contact Chris Nunn Director of Golf on 01277 631 171 chris.nunn@thebursteadgolfclub.com -4-

Wettest Winter Ever? Not so at Braintree Golf Club . . . we’ve been closed for just THREE days, with NO Temporary Greens or Tees!

Spring Membership Offer! FREE 60 day trial offer. Pay just £149 and get your money back when you become a full member.* Limited number of places available. Apply today . . . Please call Roger Wright on 01376 346079

www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk

* Terms and Conditions apply

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FREE OF CHARGE Application by email only, or via our website (UK POSTCODES ONLY) please send your name and address to

info@essexgolfer.com www.essexgolfer.com -5-

COLCHESTER

It’s an exciting year for new equipment! Above and below you will see just a selection of new drivers now available in store to try. We offer a unique service of ‘TRY BEFORE YOU BUY’ (ask in store for details) which gives you peace of mind when considering a major purchase. Along with all these new drivers there are fairways, hybrids and irons launched to add to your enjoyment. We offer a free custom fit service on all iron purchases which could be the difference in helping that handicap come down. With the introduction of 2 very unique products this year which are the ‘Aston Martin’ range of clubs, bags, gloves and accessories and a full range of excellent Callaway shoes for both men and ladies. Our clothing offer this year particularly in the ladies is the most extensive for some time with brands such a Daily Sports, Adidas, Callaway, Green Lamb and Calvin Klein all making the upstairs ladies section very tempting. We are also offering a tea and coffee morning for any group of ladies that would like to visit. Contact Sue at the store. Finally a couple of offers on the adjoining page this month reflecting our 20th anniversary this year.

Phil

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Ladies Jacqui shoe Currently

50% off.

Buy any item of ladies 2104 clothing range over £30 % off. and get a further

20 Z-Star golf balls

(RRP £58+) with every set of custom fit irons over £350

NAME: ...............................................

............................................................

EMAIL: ...............................................

............................................................

COLCHESTER

Offers end 31st March. With voucher only.

COLCHESTER

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

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COLCHESTER

A12

COPFORD

Hours of Opening: Monday to Friday 9am to 6.30pm, Saturday 9am to 5.30pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm. Directions: Store is only 15 minutes from Chelmsford just before Colchester. Come up the A12, turn off at the A120 junction, keep right and go over the A12, take the 1st exit into London Road. Store is 1 mile down this road on the right hand side.

Offers end 31st March. With voucher only.

B408 J25

MARKS TEY

NEVADA BOB’S

Thorndon Park becomes the first Essex course to reach the Top 100

After many years as a sleeping giant, Thorndon Park Golf Club in Brentwood, Essex has been recognised as an English top 100 golf course. Andy Newmacher, of the top 100 said “As Thorndon Park approaches its centenary; the Harry Colt-designed course breaks into our English Top 100 – the first Essex course ever to make our national rankings. Following a recent visit, we were so impressed with multiple aspects of this classic golf experience that our decision to include “The Park” was an easy one.” For the last 8 years Thorndon Park’s course manager, Robert George, has been executing a

plan to renovate the course.The renovations have seen a complete overhaul of the greens surfaces, the irrigation system, machinery and equipment, tee surfaces and ongoing woodland management. This has enabled Robert and his team to set high standards which has earned Thorndon Park golf Club’s badge in the UK top 100 golf courses. Set within Thorndon Park, the course is a classic 1920 design by Harry Colt, one of the greatest golf architects. In 240 acres of an ancient deer park, he created a challenging course – sensitively lengthened over the years – for players of all standards, with the Palladian mansion of Thorndon Hall as the magnificent backdrop to the final hole.

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A friendly welcome awaits you at

Gosfield Lake Golf Club On the Lakes & Meadows Courses Designed by Sir Henry Cotton

Spring & Summer Societies 2014 Prices from £24 for lunch and golf. Days tailor made to your requirements. Choices available from coﬀee, bacon rolls, full English breakfast, lunches and dinners. 18 or 27 holes of golf

Membership Opportunities Summer 2014 Specials Breakfast or Lunch and Green Fee Lakes Course £25 Meadows Course £20

Quality Golf at Aﬀordable Prices Ring Oﬃce for details

2013 Hosts Leslie F. Wood Final Curry Cup Final Veterans Challenge Cup Final

For further details please telephone:

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

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

DISTANCE CONTROL Last issue we talked about the stroke, set up and some of technical information that will help control the direction of the ball towards our intended line. However that is only one third of the task, the other two tasks being speed control and reading of the slopes on the green. This issue I am going to concern ourselves with learning how to control the speed, it is not possible to read a break consistently if you cannot control the speed of the ball.

How to practice Drill 1 The ideal speed is, if the ball misses the hole it should finish about the length of the steel of the putter past the hole. In my first practice drill I have measured and placed a semicircle of tee pegs past the hole, at the distance of the club steel. Picture 1. Now from whichever distance I decide to putt the ball to the hole. Picture 2. If I miss I will at least have some accurate feed back as to the pace of the ball. If the pace was correct then it must have started on the wrong line.

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How to practice Drill 2 The second practice drill, is also designed to move the ball into the hole at a consistent speed. Place a long iron in front of the hole as in Picture 3. Now if you putt the ball towards the hole too slowly it will hit the shaft and stop, if the ball is travelling to fast it will hit the shaft and jump over the hole, and yes you guessed it, if the ball is travelling just right it will hit the shaft pop over and into the hole. Picture 4

18 holes with curry and rice

ÂŁ25

Monday to Friday

1st Oct 2013- 31st March 2014 Please call 01245 440005

to reserve your tee time

Channels, Belsteads Farm Lane Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT Give these drills a try, if you want to improve your short game, why not join me for my residential tuition break this summer at Bramshaw Golf Club, in the New Forest this summer, details on the garypikegolf.com web site. Gary Pike PGA Advanced Professional - 11 -

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

12 Annual TH

Mighty Masters r

Free golf day for Junior novice golfers and their parents. (Supported by Daniel Robinson and Sons and EFDC) Hosted by The Epping GC, Flux Lane Epping (Near Epping Tube station) from 12 noon on Thursday April 10th 2014. Novice Juniors and their Parents are welcome to a day of free tuition and the chance to play a competitive round of 3,6 or 9 holes for sparkling prizes donated by Daniel Robinson and Sons Funeral Directors. All

equipment is provided, and there are sets of clubs to keep for those who do have not any. To date over 5,000 people have taken part in Mighty Masters and apart from all the prize winners and people that have taken up golf, at least 5 youngsters have turned their Mighty Masters start into a career as a professional golfer. The day is organised by the Essex Golf Union and Epping Golf Club who have volunteers on hand to guide new golfers of all ages round the course and advise them on ways to continue golf if they have enjoyed their day. Epping Golf Course provides free adult lessons every Saturday 9-10 and every Monday 9.30 onwards. There are free Junior lessons every Saturday from 10-10.30 and inexpensive junior lessons from Warren Sargeant and Sean Carter from 10-3 every Saturday. For one call registration for the day or for more details call 01992 572 282

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BRENTWOOD GOLF CLUB (Formerly Weald Park) 2014 MEMBERSHIP OFFERS (All 1 Year Memberships) (There are NO hidden extra charges)

FULL 7 DAY MEMBERSHIP (UNLIMITED GOLF) – £999* (That’s just £19.21 per week)

5 DAY MEMBERSHIP – £750* Senior Membership (Over 60 Years) – £650* Age 22-25 (7 Day Membership) – £500 Age 19-21 (7 Day Membership – £350 Age 13-18 (7 Day Membership) – £150 Under 12 Years – £50 Membership Year Starts 1st May 2014 Join Now and get March & April FREE *Payments can be spread over 10 Months (Direct Debit) with a 5% handling Charge) Example: 7 Day Full Membership £999 + 5% = £1,050 which is 10 Payments of £105 We do accept Memberships after 1st May on a pro-rata basis Members receive 20% Discount on Golf Buggy Hire, 10% Discount on Food & Beverages, plus discount on Golf Lessons, Golf Equipment, and Discount on Range Balls at UK Golf Academy Driving Range.

Summer Golf Society Special Monday to Friday On Arrival: Bacon Rolls with Tea/Coffee 18 Holes Followed By: Ham, Egg & Chips ~or~ Burger & Chips

Just £27per person

(£10 extra per person for Saturday & Sunday) *Discounts on Buggy Hire for Societies *12 or more players, we will donate a FREE 4 Ball Voucher

“Brentwood Golf Club, The club that cares about Members” Coxtie Green Road, South Weald, Brentwood, Essex CM14 5RJ

01277 375 101 Email: russell@brentwoodgolfclub.co.uk Web: www.brentwoodgolfclub.co.uk

The Jubilee Cup Update from Jubilee Cup Committee, sponsored by Seabrook Warehousing, and reported by Chairman Phil Redhead With the weather the way it has been during February, it is not surprising that there has been limited progression of the 2014 competition since last month’s update. The Jubilee Cup Committee and our sponsor, Seabrook Warehousing Ltd, are delighted to hear updates from clubs who are currently reaching out and firming up individual match dates for Rounds 1-4 of the League phase. Round 1 needs to be completed by 13th April

downloaded from the following link – it is YOUR responsibility to ensure accurate and signed results are received by the Secretary Neil Mitchell. Quick responses to this means we can keep the website updated generally within 24-48 hours of matches being played: www.jubileecup.com/Resultcard2014.pdf As always, the Jubilee Cup Committee are very thankful for the brilliant support we get from Essex Golfer Magazine in reporting the results and progress of the Cup throughout the year, and you will be able to read all about the developments in future editions. Good luck everyone!

Bentley GC 2013 Winners.

2014 so please get cracking if not done so already. We have already heard of some clubs who are under-going some serious course-work in an attempt to improve winter golfing for next year given the terrible floods we have seen. Check out the website for full details about the Jubilee Cup Competition: www.jubileecup.com including full Competition Rules (such as player qualification details), and the details of the League composition, competition draw, plus match completion dates. The 2014 Rules can be accessed directly from the Internet. And one specific job for our Captains out there – the all-important results Cards can be

www.jubileecup.com - 14 -

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A Suffolk Gem With the course closed sign a regular fixture in many home counties these past three months, why not try heading to the Suffolk Coast to play a course where clouds above are filled by a quirky house instead of raindrops. With the South East of England in the grip of the heaviest rainfall for more than 250 years, January and February has been a washout, courses have been forced to close. On the rare times they’ve opened it’s been a case of mud-golf rather than good golf. If you simply must play all year round, look beyond Essex to Suffolk’s Heritage Coast. Just 30 minutes north of Ipswich on the A12 you’ll discover the holiday village of Thorpeness, home to Suffolk’s iconic “House in the Clouds” – a water tower converted into a private residence on a giant stilt hovering among the clouds – and better still, a well-kept golfing secret, that hosted 3 PGA events in 2013. A rare micro climate, low lying coastal plain and sandy fast draining soil mean that Thorpeness Hotel and Golf Club’s James Braid designed heathland course stays in exceptional condition year round, whatever the weather. The course opened in 1922 and winds through pine, gorse, heather and silver birch trees in an area of outstanding natural beauty. A par 70, the course appears short at 6,421yards but only because there are two par five’s, four short holes and 12 par-fours, the best of which – the dogleg 18th – finishes right below the ‘House in the Clouds.’ The course hardly ever closes, in fact it’s only been shut for around 8 days in the past five years and that was because of snow and ice. Thorpeness Hotel and Golf has a 36-bedroom golfer’s hotel, Tee-View restaurant and classic clubhouse with wood panelled honours board, roaring fire and well stocked bar.

In winter you can play the course from £24pp for a fourball and there are a range of ‘Early Eagle’ offers and golf breaks packages available at www.thorpeness.co.uk Thorpeness Golf Club will be hosting their first Golf Festival from 28th – 30th July 2014. This all inclusive festival includes golf clinics with former Open player Frank Hill, competitions and a gala dinner on the last night. For more information and to book please call the Pro Shop 01728 454 926.

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DRES SED TO

Dis t ress We’re looking to uncover some of the worst dressed golfers in Essex. Please email us your contenders to

info@essexgolfer.com

Charity Football Golf Event Hammer Blow for Keith.

£259

GOLF IN FRANCE HOTEL METROPOLE

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

pp midweek

SOCIETY PACKAGE - MAY - OCT

pp midweek

OVERNIGHTER SPECIALS DEALS

pp midweek

HARDELOT SEASONAL OFFER 2014

£155

£245

Choice of Golf courses.;- St Omer, Wimereux, Le Touquet Forest , Belle Dune, Hardelot Dunes. 2 nights Dinner B&B 3 rounds Golf - Mon - Thurs Tunnel Car + 4 persons I night Dinner B&B 2 rounds golf - see above courses. Tunnel Car + 4 Dates available 27/4, 30/4, 19/5,22/5,29/5, 01/6, 07/9, 10/9 Hardelot Dunes, Pines & Dunes 2 nights Dinner B&B

Offers include: Dinner B&B, Golf, Tunnel - Car + 4 Persons Supps;- Golf - Fri, Sat & Sun.

• All inclusive bar deals available. • 4 full sized snooker tables. • English TV for all major football, rugby and sports events.

METROPOLE GOLF BREAKS Call Rosemary 01843 860748 Mobile 0787 2067 406 Email: rosemary@metropolegolfbreaks.com Website: www.hotel-metropole.co.uk

Private members club WINTER SPECIAL - £28 per person includes Full Breakfast & 18 Holes golf or Ham, Egg & Chips & 18 Holes Golf Reserved tee times for between 8 and 24 players

GOLF SOCIETY- SPECIAL OFFER For every twenty green fee paying players—receive TWO FREE green fees, For every further 10 players over 20 receive ONE FREE green fee. 18 Holes £30 or 27/36 Holes £37. For further information call Sue on 01708 222788 or email sue@upminstergolfclub.co.uk

GOLFING MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE IN ALL CATEGORIES: Including a Special 5 day membership with no up front joining fee. House & Bowls membership also available. Call us for more information.

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ion tit pe Com Pr iz e

DOES THIS GREAT ESSEX GOLF HOLE

look familiar?

Name the course and have the chance of winning A FOURBALL ON THE MYSTERY COURSE 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.

ON ITI R T PE NE M O C WIN

Last monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winner was Laurence Gale who recongnised the 6th hole at Warley Park Golf Club

To play at Warley Park Golf Club Call 01277 224 891 www.warleyparkgc.co.uk - 18 -

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.

A QUICK GUIDE TO LOOKING AFTER & GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR EQUIPMENT Golf equipment is not cheap, looking after it will not only prolong its longevity but will also help improve your golf game. Here are a few tips: HEADS: Club heads take a hell of a battering. Unfortunately chips and scratches are part of normal wear and tear but keeping head covers on woods and hybrids will certainly keep the club looking good for longer. Most wood and hybrid heads are painted, scratches and chips on the crown (top) of the club are very difficult to get rid of without a complete strip down and repaint.A complete head refinish is expensive and very rarely looks good so head covers are a great way of avoiding this. Keeping your club heads clean and free from dirt or debris in either the grooves or speed pockets on the sole will help increase performance. When you hit a shot the ball needs to 'grip' to the face of the club to achieve backspin. A face that is covered in grass or grooves full of mud will make the ball react inconsistently leading to poor distance control.

Washing club heads is no more difficult than a soft cloth and warm water. Try not to submerse the head in the water and certainly do not use boiling water - you don't need to sterilise your clubs! Using water that is too hot can cause the glue bond between the head shaft to break down and the ferrule (the black plastic part) to move.

GOLF SHAFTS: Graphite shafts need a graphite friendly golf bag which most bags are these days. If your graphite shafts are still marking when you play check to see how the clubs are placed in the bag. Always put the longer clubs at the top of the bag with the shorter clubs below as this will stop the shorter clubs knocking against the longer shafts as you walk along. All graphite shafts start life as a 'black' shaft and are then painted. Nothing looks worse that a nice brightly coloured shaft with a big black wear mark on it. Wear on the shaft will eventually mean a broken shaft so try to guard against this as much as possible. Steel shafts do not require the same amount of protection as graphite but do need to be kept dry, especially if your clubs live in the boot of your car between games. Moisture can sit between the shaft and the head both on the inside and outside and this will rust over time. In the majority of

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cases shafts that break clean off with the head are a victim of this.Also, sometimes the shaft can show signs of small rust spots, another sign of the club not being dried off after play. Taking a moment at the end of your round to dry your equipment will certainly help prevent this.

GRIPS: Grips are like the tyres on you car, the more you use them the quicker they wear out. Regular washing can elongate the life of your grips, sometimes up to twice as long. Grips go smooth as a result of dirt adhering to their surface. To wash your grips simply put a small piece of broken tee peg in the hole at the end (remember we don't want rusting) and scrub with a soft brush and a mild cleaning agent or soap. Washing up liquid works well, don't use floor cleaners of anything like that. As you wash you will see the dirt come out the grip, when finished dry the grip off with a towel and leave to dry out of the golf bag for a few hours. There you go a few simple tips to keep things in good shape - as always if you have any questions please get in touch.

Talk to your local PGA Professional or contact me at Hylands Golf Complex on 01277 356 016 email: porterlee@mac.com

3PRING INTO 'OLF

Win a pla ce in ou r PGA S Champio eniors nship Pro -Am on Wedn es 4th June day 2014! 33IIMPPL

LYY BO BOOK OK YYOU OUR R 'OL OLFF " FFOORR "RREEAAKK OORR M MOORREE PPEEOOP PLLEE AANNDD W EENNTTEERR Y WEE LLL L YOOUU IN INTTOO TH THEE CCOOMPPEE TTITITIIOONN ! !SSKK AABBOOUUTT O OUURR 4 4 # #S S

To book your Golf Break or Golf Day please call 01206 265827/262836 or email sales@stokebynayland.com

www.stokebynayland.com/golf www .stokebynayland.com/golf +EEPERS ,ANE ,EAVENHEATH #OLCHESTER #/ 0:

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4 #S APPLY

Frinton GC Challenges Wet Weather and Wins In spite of record amounts of rain and gale winds this winter, Frintonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Havers Course has remained open all winter, with most holes playable and no temporary greens in use. This is a direct result of the completion of phase one of a major capital improvement project costing some ÂŁ10,000.

were the ones that had the most damage last year. The drains were then filled with 350 tonnes of stone. Silted up ditches were also cleared to allow the course to drain faster. As a result, the Havers Course has been open all winter, much to the delight of members, guests and visiting societies.

After the wet weather of 2012 when both courses were closed for a significant amount of time, the Greens Committee felt it had to do some major work to drain the course. Andrew Cracknell, Course Manager came up with an aggressive plan. A serious obstacle was getting the funding approved, but once that was accomplished, the work began in earnest in late August when ground conditions were most favourable. The ground staff laid more than 4000 metres of land drains over the 4th, 5th, 10th and 18th holes, which

A further budget has been approved for work this autumn when it is hoped to carry out drainage and ditch clearance on holes 1, 2 and 3 as well as several holes on the Kirby Course. The objective is to insure that the Frinton courses are of the highest standard in East Anglia. The Club is hoping to entice new members by offering half price membership packages for those who join by the 30th of June of this year. Peter Taggart at the Pro Shop has all the details.

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27 holes Championship Golf Course Range, putting and chipping facilities Stay and Play packages at Hever Castle Astor Lounge with terrace and restaurant Fully stocked Pro Shop Anne Boleyn Package Available from only

£46

A Warm Welcome Awaitss

Society, Corporate and Charity Golf Days

FREE PLACE

in every 21 players

FREE BUGGY

pp p

when booking 8

Coffee and Bacon con Rolls Roll 18 Holes on The Kingss & Queens Quee Championship Course rse Light Golfers’ Lunch unch

Any package booked before the

28th February

will receive a full English breakfast upgrade (worth £4pp)

H I S TO R I C • P I C T U R E S QU E • I N S P I R I N G Contact us now Hever Castle Golf Club, Hever Road, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NP Telephone Claire: 01732 701 003 Email: golfdays@hever.co.uk www. hever.co.uk

The Essex Ladies County Golf Association’s County Championship will take place at Chelmsford Golf Club on Friday 16 May to Sunday 18 May 2014. The Championship will be sponsored by Higgins Group PLC, and the Higgins Group are thanked for their continued generosity in supporting the event. Chelmsford Golf Club, founded in 1893, is an excellent parkland course that provides a fine test of golf. Entry forms are available on the ELCGA

website www.essexladiesgolf.org The trophy presentation will take place at a celebratory tea on Sunday afternoon, when the Champions will be presented with their trophies. Louella Hitchcock, County Captain, will also then announce the team who will represent Essex at the 2014 East Region County Week to be held on 16-20 June at Gog Magog Golf Club.

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Chelmsford Golf Club

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 at £11.95 inc postage TEL 01621 815 577 - 24 -

Burnham-on-Crouch Golf Club

£60 a

February/March

7 Day Full Membership £825pa (£68.75per month)

Fourball

Plus Golf Union fees and monthly payment cost if applicable.

No Tee Times, Excellent Drainage, Guest Rate at 18 Members Courses

(Mon-Fri-conditions apply)

Limited spaces available

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A MEMBERS GOLF CLUB IN A TRANQUIL SETTING LOOK NO FURTHER For further information call 01621 782282. Visit www.burnhamgolfclub.co.uk

All new season stock arriving from March onwards

Totally Golf Superstore St James Centre, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2SX Tel: 01279 432288 Email: info@totally-golf.com Mon - Fri: 9.30am - 6.00pm Saturday: 9.00am - 6.00pm Sunday: 10.00am - 4.00pm - 25 -

Velvet® family, at the 2014 PGA Merchandise Show. The Tour Velvet Super Tack™ is the latest addition to the Tour Velvet series, which was played by 63% of all PGA TOUR winners in 2013. Built on the success of one of the longest running grip families in Golf Pride history, the Tour Velvet Super Tack features a newto-world material formulation that provides an exceptional level of tackiness and performance.The new grip formulation is complemented by an innovative multisection grip texture. The lower section, located ‘below the ribbon’, features a wider version of the ‘plus’ sign pattern that was made famous in the original series of Tour Velvet grips.The new, wider ‘plus’ signs are aligned in a tighter formation to provide a higher level of traction throughout the swing.

FEEL ADVANCED – FootJoy Introduces New D.N.A. Footwear Category

www.golfpride.com

Get a GRIPPP with HIRZL FootJoy has developed the next advancement in golf footwear – D.N.A. (DryJoys Next Advancement). Featuring the most comprehensive feature package ever delivered by FJ, D.N.A. footwear represents the most proven elements of the world-renowned DryJoys footwear family with all-new, cutting-edge componentry and construction methodology for the very best in performance. “To create the most feature-laden golf shoe in our history, we needed to explore the anatomy, or DNA, of our premium footwear products and then scrutinise each and every aspect throughout the design and development process,” commented Doug Robinson, Vice President of Design and Development Worldwide. “Each material and component was carefully considered in order to deliver a shoe with lightweight stability, a customlike fit, superior feel and ultimate performance.” www.FootJoy.co.uk

Golf Pride’s Gold Standard Adds Superior Tack Option Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton has announced that its Golf Pride grips division would unveil its new high-performance option in the Tour

Swiss glove specialist HIRZL is set to launch into the UK market with its unique range of golf gloves that deliver incredible grip in dry weather and even more grip in the wet. With its focus solely on providing the best connection between a golfer and their clubs, HIRZL has developed unique technologies that enable the golfer to swing confidently with the lightest of grips, whatever the weather. Underpinning HIRZL’s glove performance is its trademarked GRIPPP™ technology. Extensively tanned Kangaroo leather is combined with a 45 degree, pre-curved finger system and a stretch membrane that prevents bunching in the fingers and provides the perfect fit. The resulting traction that can be gained from a HIRZLl glove is incredible in the dry, only to be surpassed when the glove gets wet. www.hirzl.com

Go longer with Nike’s New VRS Covert 2.0 irons “If it’s good enough, then we must make it better,” states Cindy Davis, President of Nike Golf and that approach is rooted in every product crafted at ‘The Oven’, Nike Golf’s research and design facility,

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and the new VRS Covert 2.0 irons, available now, are no exception. Golf club engineers and designers built upon the performance benefits of the first generation of Covert irons and improved specific design elements in the 2014 model to make it easier for golfers to hit the ball farther and higher with superior stability www.nikegolf.com and feel.

THE BURSTEAD GOLF • CLUB

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

Titleist Advances Performances 2014

Titleist the #1 ball in golf, delivers even better performance and feel in its new 2014 NXT Tour, NXT Tour S, Velocity and DT SoLo golf balls through innovative core, cover and aerodynamic technologies. Every Titleist golf ball, including the iconic Pro V1 and Pro V1x, is precision engineered by Titleist Golf Ball R&D associates and manufactured in the company’s world-class owned and operated facilities to provide a meaningful performance and preference option.The new 2014 models offer the same renowned quality and consistency that have become synonymous with any golf ball bearing the www.titleist.com “Titleist” script.

PING launches hot-faced, multimetal Rapture 3-wood as driver alternative PING today unveiled the 13-degree Rapture 3wood for golfers looking for a versatile driver alternative or hotter-faced 3-wood. The multimaterial, adjustable design combines a Ti 8-1-1 titanium body, high-strength beta-titanium face and dense tungsten sole plate for increased ball speed and lowered spin, leading to more distance and accuracy. The Rapture 3-wood is now available for pre-ordering from PING-authorised www.PING.com golf shops. Report by www.golfbusinessnews.com

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

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

Flexible for golf in fifty seconds Wendy played on the Ladies European Tour from 1992 – 2006; having led several tournaments for the first three days (namely the English & Irish Open) and NOT won; her frustrations have equipped her perfectly to understand and realise her student's dreams. Wendy has worked with leading coaches to achieve her own excellence, and is now based at Little Channels. for private lessons or to join Wendy’s ladies clinics contact Wendy Dicks wendy@gemsgolf.co.uk

POWER WITH

YOUR WRISTS You may recently have discovered your shoulder turn isn’t as magnificent as you would like. Well, if you develop a significant wrist hinge you can still enjoy some distance. Flexible wrists may prevent injury; Imagine swinging your club at 70 mph – all of a sudden you come to a violent halt, as you endure an impact from a sadistic green keepers rough! Stronger wrists will definitely help with this.

Who Deserves a Right Hook?

Exercise to keep wrists strong Pictures A & B are pushing the hands against each other and resisting each other for 10 seconds and then relaxing. Repeat five times a day (well you didn’t think a solo 50 seconds did you!) This will increase flexibility through the wrists and forearms. NOTE: If you have any concerns about your body, please consult a doctor or physio before performing any exercise. I have been a student of Iyenderyoga throughout my playing career, it contributed 40 minutes to my warm up routine for tournaments. It strongly encourages students not to push themselves but gently persuade your body to each position. I urge you all to do the same; this is not the time to be competitive with yourself. - 28 -

... Got it!

Helping you get back in the swing With over 25 years experience, if you ar are e facing the anxiety of a health pr oblem, Springfield Hospital problem, of fers everything you would expect fr offers from om your local private hospital.

Call now quoting ‘SPR2’ for information on all our physiotherapy services:

Sports injury clinic

Neurological conditions Neurological

Back & neck pain

Sports massage

Clinical pilates

Acupuncture Acupunctur

Podiatry & running analysis

Musculoskeletal conditions

Respiratory problems

Shockwave therapy

W omen’ health Women’s

01245 234 045

The Notleys Golf Club

w w w. s p r i n g f i e l d h o s p i t a l . c o . u k

Lawn Lane, Springfield, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 7GU

Black Notley, Essex 01376 329 328

SPECIAL OFFER Summer society offer

Coffee & bacon roll, 27 holes of golf, ham egg & chips: £22 weekdays or £27.75 weekends Quote Essex Golfer to receive 10% off these prices if booked before 15th March

see our website (www.notleysgolfclub.co.uk) for other packages and winter specials Call us for the best value membership prices in Essex - 29 -

Mardyke Valley Golf Club South Road, South Ockendon, Essex, RM15 6RR

SPECIAL SOCIETY WEEKDAY PACKAGES

With this offer code BP/MR0312 Bacon roll/tea or coffee. 18 holes of golf and chef ’s ‘special’ lunch

Minimum 30 players £18, Minimum 20 players £19, Minimum 10 players £20

Wettest winter ever but we never closed!

Membership from under £700 and ‘Pay & Play’ welcome.

FREE BREAKFAST ON TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS*

Tel: 01708 855011 *conditions apply

Find us at: www.mardykevalley.co.uk or www.golfcentral.co.uk Email: secretary@mardykevalley.co.uk

SkyCaddie Responds To R&A Decision SkyCaddie has issued the following statement in response to the R&A’s recent announcement regarding Distance Measuring Devices (DMDs) in its amateur events. “The R&A’s decision to allow DMDs in its amateur events in 2014 under Local Rule makes great sense, and we welcome this forwardthinking announcement from the R&A” said Jacqui Surman, SkyCaddie’s Senior Vice President International Sales & Marketing. “It is important that the sport minimises confusion as regards new technology, particularly at amateur level. For example, we work closely both with the

PGA of GB & Ireland in professional events, and with England Golf for its amateur events. In both cases Distance Measuring Devices are allowed to be used in competition, and SkyCaddie is the Official Rangefinder of both organisations. The fact that both the club pro and the amateur golfer or club member can use their SkyCaddie when they compete, makes sense at the grass roots level of the sport. It helps the PGA pro to coach the club golfer, as they are both using the same technology, and it helps the golfer to play better. Elsewhere in the world we enjoy similar relationships with the PGAs of America, Canada and Sweden. Report by

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www.skygolf.com

Essex County News by Ben Crew, Press Officer, Essex Golf Union Email: crew_ben@hotmail.com Tel: 07763 840 823 www.essexgolfunion.org

Firstly I’d like to extend my warmest greetings to you all as the Essex Golf Union’s new press officer and offer my thanks to both the Union and Frank Tomlin for their assistance in a smooth handover. I am very much looking forward to the challenges and rewards of the role and am excited to meet many of you throughout this year’s golfing season.

The Annual General Meeting Our AGM was held at Upminster Golf Club on Thursday 6th February and enjoyed a strong attendance from 29 affiliated Clubs many guests of whom stayed to dine and enjoy what was a pleasurable and constructive evening. President John Peters formally announced that after 12 years of hard work, long serving County Secretary Allan Lockwood will be retiring at the end of March and took the opportunity to introduce his successor Lynda Cartwright. Allan’s tireless efforts on behalf of the Union are responsible for bringing the EGU into the 21st century and have ensured our events and championships have ran to the highest standards, standards which through the support and encouragement of all involved within County golf there is no doubt Lynda will continue to build upon. The President introduced 6 new board members to the Union, Bryan Sinden (Chingford), William Dunbar (Channels), Tim Lloyd-Skinner (North Weald), Allan Lockwood (Crondon Park), Robert Ward (Wanstead) and Alexander Woodward (Orsett) all of whom were welcomed with warm applause and will provide valuable input and feedback throughout the year to come. He also reported the standing down of 4 Directors, Robert Holland (Maldon), Steve Morrison (The Warren), Neil Poulson (Colne Valley) and Frank Tomlin (The Burstead) and thanked each for their hard work and contributions over the years.

The President gave plaudits and offered reflection on the Counties various team and individual successes throughout the last year, our Colts Team managed by David Edwards (Royal Epping Forest) and captained by Jordan Wallace (Abridge) winning the England Golf South East Group Colts Northern League and sharing the North/South Final with Sussex, Bobby Keeble (Crowlands Heath) winning the England Golf Tournament of County Champions, the Counties first win since 1979 and a win that helped Bobby secure selection for the England Men’s ‘A’ Squad this year, Louis Lazarus‘ (Romford) 3 time selection for England U16’s and Jack Dyer’s English Schools title win, setting up the Rochford Hundred players representation of England Schools at international level. Thanks were handed out to all at the Essex Golf Union for their highly valued contributions and indeed to the Affiliated Clubs for their ever accommodating grace in allowing the Union to use their courses and facilities. In addition the President also took the time to thank its generous sponsors the Norman Garon Trust and Ingrebourne Valley Ltd, Neil Sjoberg for his considerable efforts and success with the Mighty Masters at Epping Golf Club, our President Elect Mike Hart and not least Upminster Golf Club for their continuing hospitality as the host venue for the Essex Golf Union’s AGM.

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Please turn over

Essex County News by Ben Crew, Press Officer, Essex Golf Union Email: crew_ben@hotmail.com Tel: 07763 840 823 www.essexgolfunion.org

Upcoming Under 14’s Junior Golf Tour & Keating Trophy Reminder The EGU’s competition season is now right around the corner with closing dates for entries rapidly approaching. Now in its third successive year our Under 14’s Junior Golf Tour has gone from strength to strength and continues to build on its early successes providing invaluable support to grass roots junior golfers in a competitive environment. Entry for this year’s events closes 2 weeks prior to each competition date, the first of which will be held at Gosfield Lake on Wednesday 9th April, progressing to the U14 Championship at Maylands on Tuesday 12th August and culminating

with the Tours sixth and final stop, Garon Park on Thursday 28th August – players and interested parties can enter and find more information here. The Keating Trophy, so closely contested last year, is now open for entry with the closing date on Wednesday 19th March. The 36-hole stroke play qualifying round will take place at Woolston Manor on Saturday 5th April with the top 16 players advancing to the match play finals held over the weekend of 12-13th April. To enter the Keating Trophy or for more information www.essexgolfunion.org/keating_trophy

New Essex Golf Union Website Launched It is with great excitement that we launch a revamped and greatly improved Essex Golf Union website (www.essexgolfunion.org) with improved functionality, navigation and during competition season live online leader boards. The site is still undergoing development and will continue to see improvements, updates and changes throughout the coming months but we encourage all to visit and take a look and am sure you’ll share in our excitement of the enhancements made.

For the latest County golf news, Essex Golf Union initiatives and competition information please visit our website ( www.essexgolfunion.org ), Facebook ( www.facebook.com/pages/Essex-Golf-Union/191777754204548 ) or follow us on Twitter ( www.twitter.com/EssexGolfUnion ). Happy golfing!

www.essexgolfunion.org

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Brett Taylor is an experienced PGA Professional as both a coach and player. Based at Crondon Park Driving Range, Brett will tailor lessons to your individual needs, allowing you develop the skills to unlock your potential. If your serious about improving any area of you game, please contact Brett. T: 07885 785 570 E: info@bretttaylorgolf.com W: www.bretttaylorgolf.com

TWO THINGS YOU CAN LEARN FROM

LUKE DONALD The best way to learn is to watch the best, Luke Donald has had one of the finest short games and his skills managed to take him to world number one in 2012, there really is no one better. What you can learn. There are a number of elements to having a great short game and as much as anything it is the ability to make great decisions; selecting the best shot for each situation. 1.) Play the best shot for you. Watching Luke play, there is never any extravagant shot selection, he plays the most effective and easiest shot for each situation. If that means, putting from the side of the green or a chip and run with a 7 iron. 2.) Selecting the best shot for the situation. Visualising what you want to achieve before you play the shot helps to make good decisions. As you stand over your shot, look at what you have in front of you? Is the green up hill? Are you going over a bunker? Do you need to stop the ball quickly, or can you run the ball up the green. Imagine throwing the ball to the target, this will give you an image of what club to use and where you want to land the ball. Watching and learning where the ball lands and how the ball reacts will continue your learning and how to improve.

If you are interested in improving your short game, there will be a number of short game workshops throughout 2014, covering every aspect around the green! Register your interest at www.bretttaylorgolf.com or 07885 785 570

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Swing into Spring Available during April 2014

All day golf from £220 per 4 ball

1 night Golf breaks from £140 per person

Open Competitions booklets available now!

BOOK NOW: T: +44 (0) 1304 611118 E: office@princesgolfclub.co.uk W: www.princesgolfclub.co.uk Prince’s Golf Club, Sandwich Bay, Sandwich, Kent CT13 9QB

/princesgolfclub @Princesgolfclub

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: 2 mens Taylormade Burner drivers in good condition with regular shafts and original head covers.10.5 degree. Right handed. £40 each will separate Tel: 01375 373531 Mob: 07973 404401. FOR SALE: All ladies left handed, Taylor Made Fire Sole graphite shaft irons, 3-SW, 5 and 7 Taylor Made Woods, Great Big Bertha 11degree. £125 ONO. King Cobra 10.5 degree driver 440 FZ graphite regular shaft £50 ONO. Taylor Made Rescue wood 16 degree £20 ONO. Tel: 01702 552795 Southend. FOR SALE: Ping G2 irons RH 3HL / 4HL 5-SW 9 clubs all matching set,VG condition black dot, standard lie, regular true temper flex steel shafts. new grip`s plus carry bag £140. Tel: 01268 440806 Benfleet. FOR SALE: Taylor Made Rocket Bladez tour.4-pw. Fantastic condition still glow in the dark these clubs, Faces 9-10 Grips 9/10 Shafts 9/10. Regular KBS shaft stand lie and length. Email me at paullyons173@yahoo.co.uk for pictures. I am asking bottom price of £260 for these. FOR SALE: Complete set of Voit clubs, Driver thru to putter and bag, new condition, good starter set. £75 Tel: 0208 9240261 Ilford.

FOR SALE: Hill Billy All Terrain Golf Trolly complete with 36 hole battery and charger.VGC Will deliver if not too far from Gt Totham. Bargain at £85. Also Taylor Made RBZ driver 12.5 degree, regular shaft, almost brand new, only been hit about a dozen times, complete with head cover. £75. Tel: 01621 892511 John. FOR SALE: NEW PRICE Ping ISI black spot irons 9-3 + SW & lob wedge, all matched excellent condition, new grips £110 Tel: 01375 373447 Grays. FOR SALE: Set of Ben Sayers irons 3 - SW Steel shaft - very good condition £ 35. Powerkaddy 18 hole battery - little used £25. Also charger - little used £25. Tel: 07473 752444, 02085 973588 Chadwell Heath. FOR SALE: Snake Eyes 600C forged R/H Regular. 600T Driver. 600T 3 Wood. 3 – PW steel. Standard fit. Good condition. £130 ono. Can deliver within 40 mile radius of Colchester. Tel: 07752 469212. FOR SALE: Sky Caddie SG5, 11 months UK/Europe subscription remaining, charger, USB lead & belt clips. Recent replacement battery £50. Contact Peter on 07863 599001. FOR SALE: Ladies McGregor CG1800 irons 3,4,5,6,7,8,9,PW & SW £30 ONO Tel: 01268 754676 Benfleet.

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FOR SALE: 1 pair of brand new Stylo golf shoes, black size 10, metal spikes, ideal for wet weather. £15 no offers 01268 548466 Laindon. FOR SALE: Wilson Fat Shaft woods and irons. RH/graphite shafts. 3-sw. Driver, 3, 4, 5 woods. Nike carry bag. All good condition. £200 Ono Colin Tel: 0798 2757213 / 01708 781727 Hornchurch. FOR SALE: Cleveland XL Hi bore driver 10.5 degree Fujikura gold regular shaft £40. Cleveland Hi bore fairway wood 15 degree,Grafalloy blue regular shaft £30 or £60 the pair. Also Titleist Volkey spin mill 48 degree pitching wedge regular shaft (near new condition) £40. Callaway RAZR hawk 3 wood 15 degree graphite shaft,unmarked condition £37 All the above are in very good condition and come with original head covers. Tel: 01702 302260 Southend (evenings). FOR SALE: Complete right handed Nike sq golf set for sale with Nike sq bag. Driver, 3 wood and rescue wood all graphite. 4 iron to pw and also a lob wedge all steel shafts, Nike putter. All have head covers and are in VGC. Nike sq stand bag has a slight tear in it but can be sewn up. Can supply photos if needed. Reason for sale is i have just upgraded my clubs and no longer need these. £250 the lot. Tel: 07807 352608 South Woodham Ferrers

FORRESTER PARK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB BECKINGHAM RD, GT TOTHAM, NR MALDON CM9 8EA

01621 891 406 / info@forresterparkltd.com

NEW GOLF ‘SEASON TICKET’ £46.50 PER MONTH Contact us for more details. Greenfees and a little bit more …

WEEKDAY WINTER WARMERS FOOD OPTION 1 @ £22.50: English Breakfast before your round ~ 18 holes FOOD OPTION 2 @ £28: Bacon Sandwich ~ 18 Holes ~ Curry & Rice EQUIPMENT OFFER @ £25: 3 Srixon AD333s ~ Pack of Tees ~ 18 Holes

SATURDAY COMPETITION: 29TH MARCH Open to all. Handicaps and non-handicaps welcome. 2 x 1st prizes (handicap & scratch) of £50 greenfee voucher & whisky. Bookings open now.

MARCH 2014 TWILIGHT OFFER £12 after 2pm, Sunday to Friday CALL US FOR DETAILS US OR GO TO OUR WEBSITE www.forrester-park.co.uk

English Schools Golf Association

Professional suppliers of turf to Golf and Bowling Clubs, Landscapers, Construction Companies and the General Public across the United Kingdom

www.englishschoolsgolf.org

The Essex Schools Handicap Competition

Top-quality, weed-free turf at the right price. Expert assistance and free advice. We are pleased to welcome you at our depot. Crowley Turf Supplies Depot: All Seasons Nursery, Folkes Lane, Southend Arterial Road, Upminster, Essex, RM14 1TE Tel: 01277 263988 E-mail: dave@crowleyturf.co.uk Web: www.crowleyturf.co.uk

To be played at North Weald Golf Club on Monday 28th April. Handicaps for Boys are 11 - 28 and girls 14 - 36. Entry fee £17 per head inclusive of a meal. Entry forms available from jsm2000uk@tiscali.co.uk or on the Essex Golf Union website.

We also supply (delivery or collection) Top Soil, Crazy Paving, Bark and Westmoreland Rockery

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Vicki Cumberworth has been in the fitness industry coming up to 10 years, working with golfers since 2007 after completing a challenging course in California to become a golf Biomechanic. Vicki has worked with numerous golfers including European Tour Player Dale Whitnell, Gary Carter, Golf Pro at Crowne Plaza Five Lakes and Will Boniface to name but a few. Vicki advises clients on how to improve their golf swing and eradicate faults through flexibility/core/posture while also working on strength and conditioning. Vicki is based at Crowne Plaza Five Lakes and can be contacted by email on vickipt@hotmail.co.uk or Tel 07921 075 212 web www.vickipt.com

RESISTANCE A VS B

CARDIO I hear on a very regular basis from golfers that they should be doing more cardio and I see too many golfers in the gym on the cross trainer, rower and treadmill for hours on end. For me this is a complete waste of precious training and practice time! Most golfers are getting a fair bit of cardio from the actual golf course and when they are not, 20 minutes of interval training 2 times a week is sufficient for fitness and stamina. The rest of the gym time should be spent in the weights/mat area room developing postural endurance, core and strength and stability into power. Resistance work coupled with flexibility, posture and core work builds a strong, stable unit to play golf, in turn producing a much better golfer. No resistance training and just cardio in my experience produces a very injury prone sportsman with weak muscles and a pretty exhausted body. There is a place for cardio ...high intensity interval training, in the form of sprints or interval training on the rower, stepper, cross trainer.

When resistance training try to stick to big functional movement patterns for optimal functional carryover. For example, squat, lunge, push, pull and twist. Include all these movements and you will see your golf improve tremendously. Change your cardio to interval training ... try rowing 2mins moderate pace/level then 1minute as hard and fast as you can go and repeat pattern for 20minutes max. It's the perfect time to hit the gym and start practicing your functional movement patterns and interval training with the weather so bad, seek out a good personal trainer and get going!

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New and Pre-owned Golf Buggies From Ernest Doe, Essex’s premier golf buggy distributor

Over 300 new buggies supplied in 2013

Free Storage C over

Free storage co ver with every used golf buggy wh en you quote EG 2014 on your initial enquiry

New carts

Pre-owned carts from £1500

• E-Z-GO RXV electric and petrol • E-Z-GO TXT electric and petrol • Cushman Shuttle electric and petrol

• Reconditioned • Fully serviced • 3 month guarantee • Always a choice in stock

Call Simon Jennings 01245 380311 or 07870 230806

Where you can buy with confidence

Ulting, Maldon, Essex CM9 6QH www.ukgolfbuggies.com

www.ernestdoe.com

PGA SENIORS RETURNS TO

STOKE BY NAYLAND Around 120 of the world’s most famous senior golfers will be competing at the ISPS Handa PGA Seniors Championship from 5th – 7th June at Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa. This is considered to be the flagship event of the European Senior Tour – and as such is set to attract the likes of Woosnam, Montgomerie and Torrance to play in this 4 day tournament, preceded by a Pro Am on 4th June.

national companies are set to benefit from the various levels of sponsorship on offer, ranging from on course signage to stands in the tented village, adverts in the programme and excellent hospitality packages at just £75 for a whole day of wining, dining and top class golf.

Thousands of spectators are expected to come and watch world class golf on their doorsteps, and golf fans and their families will experience the wonderful facilities on offer. The event and sponsors will also benefit from 200 hours of TV coverage in over 50 countries around the world, the most important of which will be the one hour highlights coverage on Sky Sports on each evening of the Championship. There will also be regional BBC Look East, ITV, Radio and press coverage. With such a high profile event, both local and

Congratulations

Christine Despite the amount of rain that's fallen so far this winter, and a forecast of more rain to fall on Orsett's Ladies competition day (February 7th). The Ladies were not deterred from playing their annual 5 Clubs and a Putter Trophy competition. The Winner, Christine Gordon, carded an excellent score of 33 points to take the trophy, with Jan Baker the runner up on 31 points. On receiving the trophy from Lady Captain, Margaret Oliver, Christine said she thoroughly enjoyed the day, was delighted to win the Trophy, and thanked Bev McAnally, her playing partner, for a really enjoyable game. - 40 -

1880

Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club offers 27 quality holes of excellent golf

PAY & PLAY

on the only true Links Course in Suffolk – £45 (w.days) / £55 (w.ends & Bank holidays) The 18 hole Martello Course is the 5th oldest golf course in England and has breathtaking views of the Suffolk coastline.

PAY & PLAY

on our 9 hole Kingsfleet course – £13 (w.days) / £16 (w.ends & Bank holidays) a chance to play on the superb Par 35 course with magnificent views across the Deben Estuary.

For further information please look at our website:

www.felixstowegolf.co.uk

01394 286 834

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UK National Golf Month Plans for a major UK golf industry initiative aiming to recruit 100,000 lapsed or new golfers to the game are to be presented at GolfBIC (Golf Business Industry Convention), March 10-11 at the Marriott Forest of Arden. Taking place in May 2014, National Golf Month, is supported and partnered by a variety of industry stakeholders including national governing bodies (NGBs), manufacturers and organisations, plus official media partner, Bauer Media. Using its extensive portfolio of brands spanning print and broadcast media, Bauer Media is funding and organising a comprehensive advertising campaign to coincide with the initiative making the public aware of specific National Golf Month deals offered by Golf Clubs, Driving Ranges, and PGA Professionals throughout May.

Total media coverage of this campaign will go out to 23.7million, plus there will be further support through all advertising and marketing support from the partners. Doug Poole, Project Director for National Golf Month, said: “Your support for National Golf Month is needed to help us hit our goals and targets. “All the major Golf Unions and Associations, Golf Clubs, DrivingRanges, Golf Manufacturers and PGA Professionals have already signed up and, working together with your support, we can change the trend and get more players on our courses having fun and enjoying this great game.”

National Golf Month will be advertised in 23 printed publications and 26 national radio stations. - 42 -

GREAT GOLF ALL YEAR SINCE 1922 For British golfers who do play through the winter months it can mean driving rain, ankle deep mud, temporary greens, woolly hats, mittens and waterproofs – and worst of all – the ‘Course Closed’ sign. Luckily, the winter golf course hasn’t landed on Thorpeness Golf Club. Here on the Suffolk Coast we enjoy some mighty good meteorology that makes us the perfect winter golf course:

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT Thorpeness Professional Shop on 01728 454926 or email proshop@thorpeness.co.uk

www.thorpeness.co.uk

Thorpeness Golf Club & Hotel, Thorpeness, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP16 4NH

• One of the lowest average rainfall rates in the UK • Sandy quick drying soil • A location on a flat low lying coastal plain • Around two hours more sunshine per week than the rest of the UK

thorpeness

@thorpenesscouk

PRINCE’S JUNIOR GOLF OPEN The Laddie Lucas Spoon will be played for the 26th year on Wednesday 16 April 2014 at Prince’s Golf Club, Sandwich Bay. This wonderful event is open to boys and girls aged 8 to 13 years on the day of the event. It is a scratch stableford event but there are also various handicap competitions and prizes based on age. Players of all standards are welcome. The scratch winner will be presented with the Spoon, which is displayed in the Clubhouse under the Honours Board. Surrey U14 Elite squad member Harvey Byers (Walton Heath) was the 2013 winner. This event is a celebration of the Club’s longstanding association with the Lucas family. ‘Laddie’ Lucas who died aged 82 in 1998, was celebrated chiefly as a fighter pilot; he was also a Conservative MP, a successful businessman, a highly readable writer, and a Champion golfer reputed to be the best left-hander of his day. ‘Laddie’ was actually born at Prince’s Golf

Club, his father was the co-founder and first Secretary of Prince’s and it was here that ‘Laddie’ played from the age of six. During the second World War, ‘Laddie’ was returning in a crippled Spitfire from a sortie against the Luftwaffe and not able to maintain height, and with his abundance of local knowledge and a good eye for the approach shot, he crash landed safely, within a wedge of the Himalayas 5th green. His comments on coming up short were never recorded! The ‘Laddie’ Lucas Spoon was the brainchild of ‘Laddie’ and the competition was started over 20 years ago at Prince’s. The Spoon which the scratch winner is presented with is the very club which ‘Laddie’ won in a competition along the coast at North Foreland Golf Club at the age of six. He also ‘holed in one’ with it on the old 154 yard 3rd hole at Prince’s at the age of 9! We, at Prince’s wish to ensure that this wonderful competition continues in the fashion that ‘Laddie’ would have wanted.

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THE END OF AN ERA As you may or may not be aware Chingford Golf Course is the oldest golf course in Essex, dating back to 1888. The golf course sits within Epping Forest and is common land. For the past 126 years it has been a requirement that all players wear “an item of red clothing at all times”. This has been the subject of many discussions over the years as to why this is the case. The course is "owned" by The City of London who for the past 14 years have contracted me as Golf Professional to manage the collection of green fees. To police the “red rule” for my staff is a constant hassle and so I and The City of a London looked into to the history of the red rule. For the past three years the archives of golf course information has been poured through, and it turns out the red rule should never have been in place!

now found that they asked the C.O.L. that all players be required to wear a “scarlet jacket” when playing golf to which C.O.L. declined. They however went ahead and enforced the rule! After a few years REFGC were unable to manage the course and so asked C.O.L. to take control of which they did. Somehow the red rule continued.

Back in 1888 a group of people got together and approached The City of London about using land within Epping Forest to play golf upon. The C.O.L. agreed to this and a club was formed and later granted Royal patronage to become Royal Epping Forest Golf Club. We have - 44 -

Whilst I am one for keeping traditions alive the red rule impacts significantly on the management of the course and on the well being of the staff as they are constantly abused for trying to enforce the rule. As such the rule is to be abolished on 21st March to coincide with Sport Relief Day. The course will be holding an open day where all players will be charge the 1888 fee of 1 penny! We will be taking donations on behalf of Sport Relief on the day. No player is allowed to wear red!

Report by Andy Taylor

GT LAW JUNIOR GOLF TOUR

www.futuresgolfacademy.co.uk

Original junior golf tour in Essex and Suffolk

JUNIOR GOLF ACADEMY INSPIRING DREAMS FULFILLING POTENTIAL

Junior Programmes Available

Come and play like the stars of the European Tour, chase your dreams No handicap required as you play a course measured for your age group Last years Order of Merit Champion Charlie Dodds Fantastic prizes for each age group

Program 1. Every alternate Saturday from 9am to 4pm.

Program 2. Every Wednesday evening from 6pm until 8pm

Program 3. Prep program under 12’s every alternate Saturday from 1pm until 4pm

Trial days and evenings available please call 01245 361 100 for more information.

Winter GT Law Junior Golf Tour Dates available soon

For entry forms and more information please call Little Channels and speak to tour director Sheila Emslie on 01245 361 100

With this coaching line up helping your child, think how they will improve.

Sarah Bennett PGA Head Teaching Professional hosts charity Golf Day in aid of Canine Partners Sarah Bennett PGA Head Professional and former Ladies European Tour member will be hosting a charity golf day at Three Rivers Golf Club and Country Club on Thursday 10th July 2014. The day is in aid of Canine Partners, a charity which provides working assistance dogs to people with physical disabilities. Lindsay Hurrell – Essex Community Fundraiser says – “ We are really grateful to Sarah for kindly offering to host this golf day in aid of Canine Partners. As a charity we do not receive any

government funding so rely solely on support from the general public. I would like to urge all budding golfers to pick up their clubs and help raise some money for the charity, which in turn will help provide more assistance dogs to people with a number of physical disabilities”. The day will consist of coffee upon arrival, 18 holes of golf with an entry of 4 players per team followed by a two course meal with prizes. In addition a Canine Partnership will be in attendance demonstrating the work that the dogs do on a daily basis. The cost per player is £45 and entry is in teams of 4 which is open to non members Please contact me directly: SarahBennettGolf@gmail.com or download an entry form from my website www.SarahBennettGolf.co.uk

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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 Follow me on Facebook: sarahbennettgolf Twitter @sbennettgolf

HOW DO YOU HANDLE YOUR

Pressure point? For those of you who have received golf lessons I know that your Professional would have emphasised the importance of at least one element of the hold (grip) Incidentally I use that terminology the “hold” as the “grip” to me portrays a Popeye style visual which is not necessarily ideal for an effective hold. In this article I would just like to cover one of the pressure points associated with the hold. My goal upon completion of every lesson is my client can leave with the understanding of the CAUSE, CURE & EFFECT. SBG

No “pressure” applied to the base of the left thumb.

I will give you an example based upon one of the pressure points which is solely a hold related diagnosis. Effect: The player is hooking the ball (shot finishing well left of the intended target, but starting to the right) Cause: The right hand is sitting too much “underneath” the shaft clearly showing the left thumb. The left hand is displaying too many knuckles making the right hand difficult to position. This is shown in Figure 1 below (right handed golfer)

Figure

Too many knuckles visable on the left hand.

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Cure: Place a coin as shown in Figure 2 and feel gentle pressure from the top hand to maintain the position of the coin during the swing. This will assist with the feeling that both hands are working as a “team” preventing the dominance of the right hand. This is one of the most inexpensive training aids, giving immediate feedback and easily transportable!

F i g ur e

Wensum Valley Hotel Golf & Country Club Golf Breaks with a difference. Two 18 hole free draining courses playable all year A fleet of 50 Golf Buggies Golf Tuition available

Pressure applied to keep coin in place during swing, preventing clubface closure.

Includes Dinner, Bed & Breakfast, full use of our Golf & Leisure Facilities Archery, Shooting & Hovercrafting Activities available Contact us: 01603 261012 Beech Avenue, Taverham, Norwich, NR8 6HP

There are a myriad of training aids within the golf industry all claiming to hold the magic key but it is important to understand the root cause of your specific problem and find the most appropriate as in my February article. “Look after the pennies, the pounds will take care of themselves”

Enjoyable Day for Clacton Seniors

Keep up to date on my new Blog.

www.SarahBennettGolf.blogspot.co.uk W: www.sarahbennettgolf.co.uk

Why not join me for the first

Express Green Reading clinic in the County! Prepare to be amazed with a simplistic and effective way to read greens Spaces limited and offered on a first come first serve basis March 14th 2pm-3pm & 3pm-4pm Only 8 spaces per session. Please Email me directly for further information: SarahBennettgolf@gmail.com

Photo shows the 2014 Captain and committee. L-R Don Dunham, Jeff Sinnott, Captain Peter Savage, John Willson,Vice Captain Joe Middleton, Ray Fage, Bob Seggie and Tony Burnside.

Sunday 10th February was an important day for Clacton-on-Sea GC Senior Members. The day started with a nine hole Stableford fun competition and after a soggy damp and windy experience members thoroughly enjoyed a full English breakfast beautifully served in the clubhouse. Presentations of trophies to 2013 winners followed, with their Annual General Meeting finishing off the day’s events. Captain Jeff Sinnott welcomed 75 members to the meeting. Captain Jeff then outlined his successful year and thanked the members for all their support in raising over £2000 for his charity which was “MacMillian Nurses”. - 47 -

4 week beginner course

only £20

Introduce your friends... It doesn’t matter if they have never played golf or haven’t picked up a club since their school days or an almost-forgotten holiday. They can get started by taking advantage of the low cost beginner courses across Essex from the County Golf Partnership and supported by England Golf.

They will receive a basic introduction to golf from PGA professionals, together with information about follow-on coaching and playing opportunities. Equipment will be provided so all they have to do is book and turn up on the day in comfortable clothing.

Get into golf To find a session near you go to getintogolf.org/essex or call 0800 118 2766

Rochford’s New Captain

New Captain for 2014 Roger Fearn walking through the Past Captains Guard of Honour.

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 - 49 -

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 involved with the Essex County Academy Program and is qualified in club making, golf fitness and the mental side of golf. 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

On the PGA tour below are the percentage of first putts 3 foot- 100% 6 foot- 50% 10 foot- 20% 20 foot- 8%

It is easy to blame your putting for a bad round or a bogey. But in reality, even the pro’s on tour don’t make all their putts. In fact, on average the tour players make a lot less putts than you would think. Try these below ideas to get your chips and pitches close to the hole and increase your chances of making the putt. 1. Work out your landing spot to get your chips closer – Once you have developed a good technique, the basic skill of chipping is to hit the ball to a landing point that will let the ball run up to the target, as you would roll a ball to a target.You are unlikely to put the ball straight into the hole. Instead you should try to land your ball to a spot or zone where you will judge the ball depending on the the speed of the greens, lie, elevation change and club you are using. This is your key focus on your chip shots.

2. Use the Clock to control distance with your wedges – Most of your wedge shots will not be too far left or right of the target, the key is to get the correct distance. A fundamental to controlling the distance of your wedges is to understand the varying lengths of swing required for each distance. Imagine your left arm is the hour hand on a clock and different times give you different distances. Use just 3 to start off with and these will provide you with a good base. Begin with 8 o’clock, 9 o’clock and 11 o’clock or half swing, three quarter swing and full swing. Look at the pictures below and practise getting the correct length of backswing and follow through. Work these carry distances out with each wedge and you will begin to understand to control the distance. 8 o’clock swing

9 o’clock swing

11 o’clock swing

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If you are an “experienced” Gentleman, Lady or Junior golfer who are new to the area or thinking of changing where you play your golf we would like to welcome you to take part in one of our Open Days being held on Thursday 3rd, Friday 4th and Saturday 5th April 2014. Our Captain extends his warm welcome to you. Give us the opportunity to showcase what we have on offer – FREE OF CHARGE Enjoy our arrival hospitality of refreshments and a bacon sandwich. Then play 18 holes on one of the most renowned and long established golf courses in Essex and perhaps a tour of our historical clubhouse. To register your interest and book your hosted tee time please contact Neil Wells, General Manager on 01702 544302 or email neil@rhgc.co.uk For dress code and further information visit our web-site www.rhgc.co.uk Prizes each day donated by Lancaster Mercedes Benz - Southend We look forward to hosting you on your chosen day. - 51 -

Future Golfing Events & Competitions 15/04/2014 Junior Open @ Stoke by Nayland Golf Club. 36 Hole Individual Medal £36. Includes lunch & evening meal. Daily Telegraph Qualifier. Adrian Bullock 01206 265815 golfsecretary@stokebynayland.com www.stokebynaylandjuniorgolf.co.uk 28/04/2014 Essex Schools Handicap Competition @ North Weald Golf Club jsm200uk@tiscali.co.uk 02/05/2014 Seniors Pairs Open @ Essex Golf & Country Club £64 per pair, Betterball - handicap limit 28 www.theessexgolfandcountryclub.com 02/05/2014 Seniors Pairs Open @ Gosfield Lake Golf Club £54 per pair Sally Rudkin 01787 474747 gosfieldlakegc@btconnect.com www.gosfield-lake-golf-club.co.uk 02/05/2014 'Threadgill Trophy' Gents Individual Open @ Orsett Golf Club. 36 Hole Individual Medal £45. Includes coffee on arrival, Ploughman's lunch and evening buffet. Richard Herring 01375 891352 www.orsettgolfclub.com 12/05/2014 Ladies Team Open @ Playgolf Colchester (Lexden Wood) Golf Club. £90 per team (3). Includes tea/coffee & croissant on arrival, and 2-course meal. Mrs Pauline Coxon 01206 843333 colchester@playgolfworld.com www.playgolfcolchester.com 13/05/2014 Ladies Pairs Open @ North Weald Golf Club. 4BBB £60 per pair. Strawberries & Cream on the 10th hole and a Two Course Buffet Lunch. Tim Lloyd-Skinner 01992 522118 www.northwealdgolfclub.co.uk 14/05/2014 Essex PGA Open Championship @ Toot Hill Golf Club essexpga@googlemail.com www.essexpga.com 15/05/2014 Ladies Open @ Bentley Golf Club 18 hole 4 ball , full handicap £140 per team, Tea Coffee & Danish on arrival – refreshments – 2 course meal Alex Holmes 01277 373179 alexholmes@bentleygolfclub.com www.bentleygolfclub.com 15/05/2014 Essex PGA Pro AM @ Toot Hill Golf Club essexpga@googlemail.com www.essexpga.com 23/05/2014 Mixed Pairs Open @ Gosfield Lake Golf Course £54 per pair Sally Rudkin 01787 474747 gosfieldlakegc@btconnect.com www.gosfield-lake-golf-club.co.uk 27/05/2014 'European Junior Golf Tour' Junior Open Age Limit 12 to 17 years at 1st April '14 Entry Fee £45 Includes meal Roger Shutt 01708 688 396 info@abridgegolf.com www.abridgegolf.com 01/06/2014 Mixed Pairs Open @ Saffron Walden Golf Club. 4-Ball Betterball Stableford £TBC per couple. Includes halfway house and 2-course carvery lunch. 01799 522786 office@swgc.com www.swgc.com 05/06/2014 Havens Charity Golf Day @ Woolston Manor GC £60 per person/£240 for a four ball includes breakfast, 18 holes and evening meal Laura Boenke lauraboenke@havenhouse.org.uk 10/06/2014 Charity Ladies Team Open @ Saffron Walden Golf Club. Stableford - best 3 scores* £140 per team (4). Includes evening buffet & refreshments at the halfway house. Mrs Marjory Smith 01799 522786 office@swgc.com www.swgc.com 11/06/2014 Centenary Cup @ Rochford Hundred Golf Club-36 Hole Individual Medal Open £45 per person, handicap limit 18 Ivor Finer 01702 544302 www.rochfordhundredgolfclub.co.uk 11/06/2014 Gents Senior Pairs Open @ Colne Valley Golf Club. 4-Ball Betterball Stableford. Age 55+ £65 per pair. Includes coffee & savouries on arrival and carvery meal after golf. Sharon Bayly 01787 224343 info@colnevalleygolfclub.co.uk www.colnevalleygolfclub.co.uk 16/06/2014 Ladies Team Open @ Burnham on Crouch Golf Club £90 per team (3) Includes coffee & biscuits on arrival and 2 course meal after golf. Mrs Liz Tolhurst 01621 782282 office@burnhamgolfclub.co.uk www.burnhamgolfclub.co.uk 17/06/2014 Ladies Team Open @ Stoke by Nayland Golf Club. Am-Am - best 2 scores £136 per team (4). Includes coffee on arrival, snack, Pimms on the terrace & evening meal. Mrs Barbara Jones 01473 827 920 bmjones1950@gmail.com www.stokebynayland.com 20/06/2014 Gents Individual Open @ West Essex Golf Club £35 per person, 36 Hole Individual Scratch Medal. Handicap limit 6. Emma Clifford www.westessexgolfclub.co.uk 25/06/2014 Mixed Pairs Open @ Braintree Golf Club 9 Holes Betterball (AM). 18 holes Greensome Stableford (PM). £66 per couple Includes lunch & evening meal. Roger Wright 01376 346079 rogerwright@braintreegolfclub.co.uk www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk 26/06/2014 Ladies Team Open @ Chelmsford Golf Club. Team of 4 £120 per team (4) Includes bacon roll on arrival and buffet lunch. Iain Wallace 01245 256483 www.chelmsfordgc.co.uk

Attention! Club Secretaries and Competition Organisers: Please forward any info on Future Open Competitions, Golf related Events or Charity days at Essex Golf Clubs to info@essexgolfer.com Visit our live up to date events page at www.essexgolfer.com

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Sky Sports Agrees Seven-Year Deal To Show Live PGA Tour Events Until 2022 Sky Sports will show exclusively live coverage of the PGA Tour until at least 2022 thanks to a new seven-year deal announced today. The agreement means only on Sky Sports can viewers enjoy the world’s best golfers including Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and Phil Mickelson competing live on the PGA Tour throughout the summer months. The rights, which begin in 2015, extend Sky’s partnership with the Tour into its 30th year. This new deal strengthens Sky Sports’ unrivalled golf coverage.As well as the PGA Tour, Sky Sports offers viewers three of golf’s four Majors (the Masters, US Open and US PGA), the Ryder Cup, all four World Golf Championship events, 32 events from the PGA European tour, LPGA Tour events including the US Women’s Open and amateur tour events.

Report by www.golfbusinessnews.com

P R I N T A N D P RO D U C T I O N O F ESSEX GOLFER MAGAZINE BY

F O R A L L YO U R P R I N T I N G R E Q U I R E M E N T S

01376 533 300 s a l e s @c o l t - p re s s . c o. u k w w w. c o l t - p re s s. c o. u k - 53 -

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 the momentum up. How sharp do you feel on waking? Does it take a while to get the ball rolling and for you to feel ‘on form’? Leave a full glass of water next to your bed and down the lot as soon as you wake. For many of us, morning fatigue is just a simple case of starting the day dehydrated. With breakfast, try Twinings Blackcurrant, Ginseng and Vanilla Tea to boost hydration and make use of ginseng's adaptogenic properties. Personally and for my clients, utilising Red Kooga Korean Ginseng combined with Ginkgo Biloba (to boost peripheral circulation and assist blood flow to the brain) can work a treat. The fabulous celebrity chef, Ursula Ferrigno, held a health and sport enhancing cookery workshop at Bodysense Uk Ltd recently. The following recipes will start your day perfectly ... Date and Banana Smoothie Prepare: 5 minutes Serves 4 • 30g oats • 1 banana, chopped • 2 tbsp clear honey • 4 medjool dates • 100ml apple juice • 300ml natural yoghurt Place all the ingredients into a blender and whizz until smooth and creamy. Pour into tall glasses and serve. Cooks tip: Using the basic ingredients of oats, banana, apple juice and yoghurt, you can ring the changes by adding blueberries, strawberries, mango or pineapple.

Bircher Muesli with Exotic Fruit Prepare: 15 minutes plus overnight chilling Serves 4 • 300g fresh pineapple, cut into small cubes • 150g oats • 200ml apple juice • 300ml Greek-style coconut yoghurt • 75g dried mango, chopped • 1 apple, quartered, cored and grated with the peel • 2 tbsp clear honey • 1 large fresh mango, peeled and sliced • 1 kiwi, peeled and sliced 1. Divide the pineapple cubes between 4 x 250ml ramekin dishes, dariole moulds or cups. Place the oats in a large bowl and stir through the apple juice, yoghurt, dried mango and grated apple. Mix well. 2. Spoon the mixture into the dishes and cover the top with clingfilm. Keep in the fridge overnight. 3. Run a knife around the inside of each mould and tip the muesli out onto serving plates so that the pineapple is sitting on top. Drizzle with a little honey and serve with slices of fresh mango and kiwi.

Bon Appétit from Body Sense - 54 -

Lee Westwood Golf School Essex It’s been an exciting and eventful few months at the Lee Westwood Golf School in Essex, the students have been kept incredibly busy over the wet, windy and cold months to make the most progression in their golf and education.

Abbie Symonds.

In January the Lee Westwood Golf School travelled to Spain for their winter training enabling the students to put into practice the hard work they have been doing in the gym and in their golf. Nearly 90 students and 8 members of staff went for the winter training to Desert Springs golf resort in Spain.

This was an exciting and productive week providing both a mix of fantastic playing conditions, wonderful weather and high spirits as the students really got to unwind and practice all that they have been learning with the coaches and

fitness teams. There were excellent after golf activities seeing the two schools come together to play some football, volleyball early morning training runs and even better putting in some excellent scores on the golf course. Essex student Andrew Cameron hailing from Bishops Stortford Golf Club took the overall Nett prize over the course of the week, beating all of the other students across the two schools. To add to our outstanding successes this year, first year Essex student Abbie Symonds has been awarded a prize for her constant and valued hard work.

Staff of Lee Westwood Golf School in Spain.

OAKPARK SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD

CHARITY DAY We are committed to raising vital funds to enable Headway Essex to support survivors of brain injury and their families and carers at any point along their journey and make a positive difference to their life. To be Played at Brett Vale Golf Club, Noakes Road, Raydon, Ipswich, Suffolk IP7 5LR Wednesday 3rd September 2014. (Exact time TBC nearer the date) The day will consist of 25 teams taking part (4 players in each team), the cost of which is £60 per player / £240 per team. The price per person will include: n Tea & Coffee and a bacon roll on arrival n 18 Holes of Golf n 3 Course Carvery Meal n Raffle and Auction after Dinner n Prizes will be for nearest the pin, longest best drive, best individual and best team scores, and best dressed team To request further information or fliers / posters, or to enter individuals, or teams, please apply via our website www.oaksec.co.uk, or email tara.ince@oaksec.co.uk, or telephone 01206 793 673. - 55 -

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 at £11.95 inc postage TEL 01621 815 577 - 56 -

FALDO TIMEPIECE IN UK FALDO TIMEPIECE IN UK

Only 72 watches forged from irons used by Sir Nick Faldo in his last professional victory There are only 72 pieces available of the limited edition, Faldo Series 1 watch, which is priced at £18,200. In addition to Only 72 watches forged from irons used by Sir Nick Faldo in his last professional victory

the nostalgic element, which would appeal to all golf fans, the watch possesses some unique golfing functionality, by Jaermann&Stübi. This includes for recording the strokes per hole and per round, and the ability There patented are only 72 pieces available of mechanisms the limited compare scores against handicap. The sophisticated nature of the golf counter system can be compared to a edition,to Faldo Series 1 watch, which is priced at mechanical chronograph with movement protected from impact by an in-built shock absorber. £18,200. In addition to the nostalgic element, which The Faldoto Series range fans, is available buy at www.jaermannandstuebi.com would භappeal all golf the towatch possesses some unique golfing functionality, patented by Jaermann & Stübi. This includes mechanisms for recording the strokes per hole and per round, and the ability to compare scores against handicap. The sophisticated nature of the golf counter system can be compared to a mechanical chronograph with movement protected from impact by an in-built shock absorber.

● The Faldo Series range is available to buy at www.jaermannandstuebi.com

NEW golf club online ■ ■ ■

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Report by www.golfbusinessnews.com

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All events played on courses in Essex

Play in our sweeps & competitions, some for voucher prizes

Manage your golf online, including handicaps Pay as you enter

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EVENTS OPEN FOR ENTRY:

e19thhole MIDWEEK SWEEP Five Lakes Golf Club on the Lakes Course, 17 March 2014 e19thhole CHALLENGE Orsett Golf Club, 26 March 2014

WARD CLASSIC The Warren Golf & Country Club, 25 April 2014

visit www.e19thhole.co.uk now to enter - 57 -

A Year in the Life of a dodgy

Golf Club Captain A former captain has written a book on the trials and tribulations of the dodgy skipper of a small club during his year of office. The author, John Michael Wade of Woodford GC, focuses on the antics of one Captain Mashie Niblick as his game goes from worse to dire during his term of office. So often we are bombarded with books on the exploits of millionaire professionals, often ghost written, yet we hear little of life at the grassroots, except in the Essex Golfer Magazine. Wade has rectified that. His hilarious account of life in the jungles of Epping Forest and at away days at various Essex and London courses tells the tale of a loser on the courses but a winner in the bar stakes.While others celebrate with pints of beer, Niblick drowns his sorrows in buckets of ale. Niblick had never played as much in his 60-year golfing life as during that captaincy year.As someone who rose from caddy to captain, he also enjoyed some of the most remarkable games in all his life. Against the Whitewebbs Club from Enfield, astonishingly he found he was playing in the kissing fields. There was Doris, dressed like Little Red Riding Hood while accompanying husband Captain Kelvin Crouch, offering a kiss to anyone in the fourball scoring a birdie. This so galvanised Niblick into action that he immediately chipped in for a kiss. He beat Kelvin by four kisses to one, but Kelvin would not loan his slim, blonde wife out as Niblick's cheer leader. Niblick launched his campaign with an Outlaw sketch before his inaugural drive-in to office. Dressed as Robin Hood, the gallant skipper pranced on the 10th tee riding a hobby horse and blowing on his hunting horn while followed by the Merry Men dressed as Sherwood ruffians. After a short comedy sketch which ended with the outlaws firing rubber-tipped arrows at the command of “Fore”, Niblick then scuffed his drive a paltry 32 yards using the ancient wooden-shafted driver that spends the rest of the year hanging above the club bar. And even with one grandson pulling his trolley and another grandson operating as a ball spotter, Niblick succeeded in smashing his first strike as captain into the starboard trees where neither lad was able to

locate his ball. And this while playing with the elite of the club's officers. It was mostly downhill after that. Indeed, Niblick went on to rate himself the world's worst golf skipper. At every social opportunity, Niblick would launch into a rendition of the 1978 poem he wrote,“Slagheaps of my Youth”.This was not, as some feared, an account of loose women he had wooed, but an ode to the vanishing colliery pit tips – the mountains of his childhood – around Mansfield where he grew up and got into golf. “Captain Niblick” is being sold at a huge discount by the author for a finite number of copies following its February launch. Against the recommended selling price of £24.99 by Xlibris, the publishers, the author will be retailing the books at £12 each including post and packing. Send a cheque to J.M. Wade at 7 Carlina Gardens, Woodford Green, IG8 0BP for your copy.

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JOB VACANCY FORRESTER PARK GOLF CLUB is looking for a golfer who would like a job from March to October 2014. Duties would include selling golf societies and greenfees, running competitions, sorting out handicaps, starting, course marshalling and playing with new members. CONTACT Tim Muir at Forrester Park on

01621 891 406 and/or send CV to info@forresterparkltd.com.

Ryder Cup Exhibition Tee Up For Scotland As the excitement builds for the impending Ryder Cup at Gleneagles later this year, golf fans will have a unique opportunity to delve into the history of one of sport’s greatest events during a special exhibition in Stirling.

where its position as a global attraction was cemented in the Miracle at Medinah in Chicago. A civic reception, hosted by Stirling’s Provost Mike Robbins will officially open the exhibition on the evening of Thursday, January 16, with the Ryder Cup trophy also present to celebrate the launch.

The Ryder Cup Heritage Exhibition tells the story of golf’s most famous tournament and it takes pride of place at Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum from Friday, January 17 until the end of March before moving to the Perth Museum and Art Gallery in June and ultimately Gleneagles.

The exhibition features personal items from past players as well as rarely seen photographs while a series of specially created display cases and graphic story boards recount the history of the matches, covering its growth from a friendly competition to one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

A series of fascinating items and memorabilia will be on display, charting the iconic golf event from A European team winning bag Visit www.PGA.info for the latest its earliest beginnings as a friendly from Europe’s 1995 victory at PGA News and tournament match between British and Oak Hill, New York. information. American PGA professionals at Ryder Cup www.RyderCup.com Gleneagles in 1921 through to the present day Report by www.golfbusinessnews.com

Congratulations To Mike & David Mike Sutton and David Latta were the qualifiers from last Sunday’s Daily Mail Foursomes competition at Colchester GC. In conditions reflecting the wettest January on record Sutton and Latta returned a plus one score in this bogey qualifier. Coping with the conditions much better than most Sutton (10) and Latta (13) produced steady golf through both halves of their round.Turning on the ninth one better than the course with a score of plus one they proceeded to halve the back nine to be able to hand in the winning card. Sutton and Latta now go on to represent the club in this national knockout competition. 58839 March Spring Warmer 2014 FINAL.indd 1

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20/02/2014 17:09

For your FREE advert in Holiday Golf, E-mail no more than 50 words with your details to info@essexgolfer.com For more listings go to www.essexgolfer.com

FOR RENT: 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-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 753330 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 576789 Barbara Hall or email b.hall789@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 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 07723074809 or email me at geoffrey.arnold1@btinternet.com 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 0785 4980509. 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 572777 email: petermaris@btinternet.com FOR RENT: Polaris World , La Torre Golf Resort, Murcia, Spain. Two Bedroom two bathroom detached villa situated on the stunning La Torre Golf Resort. Situated just 5 mins from the first tee of the fantastic Nicklaus Design golf course, guests will receive discounted residents green fees on this course along with other Polaris World courses. Prices start at £300.00 per week for more information please email rjleigh@sky.com 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, - 60 -

Bars, small supermarket and spa. Contact: Pamela & Alan Linger on 01376 573259 or olivagolf@hotmail.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 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 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. Contact 01206 247043 or mel_barker@btinternet.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

Well Done Orsett Back Row: Lady President, Bonnie Pulham, Andrea Eustace, Lady Captain, Margaret Oliver & Shirley Wall. Front Row: Alison Battle, Sue Mason, and Karen Batch.

Orsett Ladies Mail on Sunday Team had a magnificent result in their first round match at home against Belfairs Park on Sunday February 9th, winning 5/0. Lady Captain, Margaret Oliver praised how well all the girls played. She said “The home advantage played it's part too, Orsett has been mostly open during the dreadful wet weather, while Belfairs Park has been closed, so their ladies have had little opportunity to play.” Belfairs were gracious in defeat, saying they had enjoyed playing both the course and the match, and particularly thanked everyone for the excellent hospitality they received.

The Society of Essex Golf Club Captains

The perfect place to practice

22 bay floodlit driving range

Open 7am - 9pm everyday

9 Hole ‘pay and play’ golf course

Clubhouse serving excellent food: Mon - Fri 10am - 3pm & 6pm - 9pm Sat 7.30am - 9pm | Sun 7.30am - 3pm

The Society of Essex Golf Club Captains will be holding their 59th Annual Dinner at the Orsett Hall Hotel on Friday 21st March 2014 arrive 6.45pm for 7.15pm. Those present will include representatives from 10 different Counties and the Guest Speaker will be Russ Williams. All Captains past and present can invite as many guests as they desire. Most Essex Clubs make up tables of 10/12 and the evening is usually most entertaining. The host for this event is our Captain Tony Bone of Colne Valley GC. All applications are to be made to the Secretary, Tom Walker. Telephone No. 01708 451 860. Cost for the dinner is £40 per person. - 61 -

Little Channels, Pratts Farm Lane West Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PR T: 01245 361 100 E: info@littlechannelsce.co.uk

www.cliffordsestate.co.uk

Essex PGA Reports by Secretary, Suzy Garland-Collins essexpga@googlemail.com

Tel: 01277 223 510 www.essexpga.com

We have managed to play some events in between the odd major storm amazingly. On February 4th off we went to Woodbridge Golf Club in Suffolk – nice and dry under foot. A great day for everyone. Jason Levermore secured his first victory of the year with a 1 over score of 71 with Mark Baker and Terry Moncur in joint second place on 72. In the team event Mark Hooper with Dominic Adams and Glen Llangenberg won by 3 points from Paul Grotier with Mike Ashby and Richard Lister and in third place was Paul Barham with amateur partners John Bantick and Mark Patterson. Next was a trip to Gog Magog and our tournament was played in Spring like conditions. Mark Stokes had a pretty good day wining the individual professional event with a 68 and by 2 shots from Terry Moncur on 70 and in joint 3rd Mark Baker and Jason Levermore on 72. Mark also took the pro birdie prize with 5 birdies in his round. In the team competition Mark Stokes was in first place with partners Ken Richardson and Malcolm Prior scoring 77 points on countback from Steve Hambling with Ash Tate and Mark Reeves and in 3rd place Chris Cutchie with Andrew Smith and Mike Lapham on 75 points. The final event to report this month was our Fourball Better Ball at Orsett – the course was in superb condition – we all really enjoyed playing this great course. Thorpe Hall's Mark Talbott took the pro individual prize with a stunning -5 41 point score and in joint second were Jason Levermore and Mark Stokes on 36 points. Mark Stokes In the team event amateurs Colin Reynolds and Ken Richardson had 42 points and in the pro/am event Mark Talbott and his partner Francis Garland-Collins had 41 points with Mark Bishop with Will Kirtley in second on 40 and David Wood and Orsett Captain David Turner in 3rd. Congratulations go to Steve Cipa who obtained his

card for the PGA E u r o p e a n Seniors Tour for the forthcoming season. Following the Qualifying School in Portugal in early February Steve finished overall second following four days of Mark Talbott qualifying. Very well done Steve. We just need to remind you that entry to the Essex PGA Open Championship closes this week - the PQ is to be at Toot Hill on Monday March 17th. This is open to all Essex based PGA professionals and Essex based club amateurs with a handicap of 5 or less. We have some great day's golf planned for the rest of our winter season. A Pro/Am at Rushmere, a Fourball Better Ball at Frinton, our ever popular Pro/Am to Princes and a Pro Am at West Essex. We have a rescheduled Winter League on Monday March 10th at South Essex. Also, we will return to Belgium in October for the Belgium Pro/Am. The dates are October 14th 16th. Our package is based on a 2 night stay at the Martens Hotel in Brugge and includes 3 rounds of golf on Royal Ostende, Damme and Royal Zoute. The trip also includes Eurotunnel transfer across the Channel. This fantastic trip is priced at £455 per amateur. If you are really fed up with this dreadful weather, why not get in touch with our sponsors Leisure Link Golf Holidays who would be more than happy to suggest a sunshine golfing break for you! Please call Leisure Link on 01708 339 300, email: reservations@leisurelinkgolf.com or visit their website www.leisurelinkgolf.com Our email address is essexpga@googlemail.com or refer to the website www.essexpga.com or get the latest news on our brand new facebook page search for Epga Essex PGA or if you want to know anything phone Suzy GC on 01277 223 510.

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. - 62 -

Package 1 Coffee & Bacon Roll, 18 Holes of Golf PLUS Steak & Ale Pie and a Pint

£29.50 Kings Course or £19.00 Jubilee Course Package 2 Coffee & Full English Breakfast & 18 Holes of Golf

£25.00 Kings Course or £15.00 Jubilee Course Prices are per person

Book Now! 01621 826959 www.threeriversclub.com Stow Road Cold, Norton, Purleigh, Essex, CM3 6RR * Minimum 4 players. £5 per person supplement for Friday to Sunday play. Valid from 01 February to 31 March 2014. Terms & conditions apply.

’Eagle’ - £35 Coffee & Bacon Roll, 18 Holes of Golf plus Steak & Ale Pie and a Pint

’Birdie’ - £29 Coffee & Full English Breakfast, 18 Holes of Golf Prices are per person

Book Now! 01277 650400

www.stockbrook.com Queens Park Avenue, Stock, Nr Billericay, Essex CM12 0SP * Minimum 4 players. 10% discount Monday to Wednesday not available weekends. Valid from 01 February to 31 March 2014. Terms & conditions apply.