March 2016

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Gosfield Lake Golf Club

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

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(not to be confused with Hartswood)

‘Come and play the course everyone is talking about’

2016 Golf Society Specials *THESE ARE juST 2 ExAMPlES oF WHAT WE CAN oFFER, WE CAN TAIloR To youR REquIREMENTS*

PACKAGE A

PACKAGE B

Bacon Roll with Tea & Coffee 18 Holes Followed By: (Either) Ham, Egg & Chips, Sausage, Mash & Gravy – Steak Pie, New Potatoes & Pea’s

Full English Breakfast with Tea & Coffee 18 Holes

Monday to Friday £30 per person Saturday & Sunday £37 per person (First Tee Time Saturday & Sunday 11.45am

Monday to Friday £33 per person Saturday & Sunday £40 per person (First Tee Time Saturday & Sunday 11.45am)

2016 Memberships

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

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

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

SENIOR 5 DAY MEMBERSHIP - £715.00* *All memberships are subject to £20 EGU Fees)

For more information on Membership packages please call or email us

£15.00 per person

WINT

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

ER

Availab

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

A l l T E E T I M E S M u S T B E B o o k E d I N A d vA N C E

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

01277 375 101

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

Web: www.brentwoodgolfclub.co.uk

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

www.essexgolfer.com @EssexGolfer1 EDITOR Tony Hawkins

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WINTER Special

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18 Holes of Golf & Curry and Rice

ÂŁ25

Monday to Friday Please call 01245 441

Gosfield Lake Golf Club

www.essexgolfer.com

to reserve your tee time

ESSEX GOLFER MAGAZINE – SERVING THE GOLFERS OF ESSEX SINCE 1996

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

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

Copyright.

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

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

Channels, Belsteads Farm Lane Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT www.channelsestate.co.uk E: michelle@channelsestate.co.uk -4-

WHY ADVERTISE IN

MAGAZINE? Over 4000 digital and postal subscribers every month.

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

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

ADVERTISE FOR AS LITTLE AS ÂŁ20 PER WEEK To book your advertisement or for futher information please call 01621 815577 or alternatively email info@essexgolfer.com

www.essexgolfer.com

For the Best Deals on Golf in Essex

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

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

F I N D D I S C O U N T E D G R E E N F E E S I N YO U R A R E A -5-

COLCHESTER

I

t’s now March and the season is starting. We have Easter this month which at most clubs kicks off with some key competitions. Then the ‘Masters’ is on it’s way (traditionally the industries start of the season).

That said here at Nevada Bobs Colchester we have had a great start already due to the introduction of Skytrak (our in store club selector).

We have encouraged people to try it and one of the main differences from some of our competitors is that we are happy for you to bring in your own current clubs so we can compare their performance to the new technology.

Our success rate since we launched it November has been nothing short of exceptional and I would ask you to give it a try.

As well as this we are now fully stocked with clothes (ladies department is looking stunning) and the biggest selection of shoes we have had for a long time. This includes new brands such as Nike (returned after a few years), Skechers and Stuburt along with the usual Ecco, Footjoy, Callaway and Adidas.

Time for you to think about trolleys and with both Powakaddy's and Motocaddy's electric range very strong and a host of push and pull trolleys to choose from, could those carrying days be over!

Lastly we have expanded our bag range and offer both carry and cart and seeing waterproof bags in many different makes and styles picking up a bigger share of the market.

With all of our staffing having a minimum of 16 years service we are here to give you an excellent shopping experience and help in any way we can.

You can also keep up to date on new items store events on our Facebook, ‘Nevada Bobs Colchester’ Please come visit our store

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Phil

WOODS & IRONS FOR 2016

C L U B

S E L E C T O R

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

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

NEVADA BOB’S COLCHESTER 75 LONDON ROAD, COPFORD, COLCHESTER, ESSEX CO6 1LG TEL: 01206 212 752 EMAIL: info@nbcolchester.go-plus.net Hours of Opening: Monday to Friday 9am to 6.30pm, Saturday 9am to 5.30pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm.

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

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COLCHESTER

A12

COPFORD

B408 J25

NEVADA BOB’S

MARKS TEY

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

ROTATE

CORRECTLY L

ast issue we covered the posture and how we set the body up correctly to be able to swing at the ball on the ground. In this issue, the next step is to be able to rotate the body correctly, enabling the swing to hold a constant height during the movement. In doing this, I also want to eradicate the thought process that the head has any influence on whether you are able to stay in the same place. Quite simply it doesn’t you can only move up and down by either straightening the angles of the hips or the knees...

To gain the correct sensation of how your body (pivot) moves try this simple exercise that I learnt during my days as a David Leadbetter instructor, I am unable to claim any credit for this, but it is still the most effective way to learn the correct movement.

Picture 1 Shows me in my set up posture from face on, but I have eliminated my arms and club by folding my arms across my chest holding

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the club across my shoulders.

Picture 2 From down the target line, my chest facing the ball slight flex in my knees, ready for movement.

Picture 3 This is the important part I have managed to rotate to the top of my backswing retaining , critically retaining the angles of firstly my right knee, secondly my hips and thirdly my shoulders have rotated at 90 degrees to my spine angle.

Picture 4 Down to impact still retaining my knee and hip flex with no rising (again, I reiterate nothing to do with my head) Picture 5 Finally through to a balanced finish, it is only at this time that I have risen out of my posture, post impact.

Next issue how to make this pivot powerful.

Have fun

Gary

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A friendly welcome awaits you at

Gosfield Lake Golf Club BOOK NOW FOR YOUR 2 0 1 6 S O C I E T Y D AY Spring & Summer Societies 2016 Prices from £24 for lunch and golf Days tailor made to your requirements Choices available from coffee, bacon rolls, full English breakfast, lunches and dinners 18 or 27 holes of golf

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

Twilight Golf Contact Pro shop for tee times and best prices

Membership Opportunities Quality Golf at Affordable Prices

Family Golf Special Introductory Rates for Parents and Children

For further details please telephone:

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

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.

The Case of The Magic Golf Shafts “Fred hit that driver so well, but I bought one and can’t hit it!” Sound familiar? Well, I get it this one quite often.

I believe that the golf shaft is an incredibly important aspect of any golf club. My reasoning for this is simple - the shaft of the club ‘translates’

the player’s golf swing and applies it to the head of the club. Head design is equally important so for me a good golf club is a combination of these two factors.

Within golf shafts there are several key aspects that are frequently misunderstood.

DESIGN ATTRIBUTE

SHAFT MATERIAL SHAFT FLEX

DEFINITION

Mainly broken down into graphite and steel but there are a few alternatives. Generally, graphite has always been lighter than steel but steel shafts are catching up fast.

This is how much the shaft ‘bends’ overall. There are literally hundreds of shaft flexes, not just the normal R, S & X generally offered today.

KICK POINT

Generally broken down into low, mid and high categories, the kick point can influence the golf balls launch.

SHAFT PROFILE

Where the stiffness is actually located within the shaft length. For example a professional player may require an extremely firm tip for a lower ball flight.

SHAFT FREQUENCY

As there are no standards in golf, shaft frequency is the only true way of testing flex. This is done via a frequency machine which tests how much a shaft oscillates. This is the true flex of the shaft, irrespective of what it reads on the shaft.

SHAFT TORQUE

The amount of ‘twisting’ of the shaft. Generally higher swing speeds require lower torque.

SHAFT WEIGHT

Really important to a good fit is weight which is so often overlooked.

Different swing types suit different shaft weights. Lighter is not always better!

When choosing a golf shaft don’t be ruled by marketing or by a playing partners success with a particular shaft. Sorry, there are no magic golf shafts, just ones that fit really well.

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We’d love to be on your society rota for 2016

We offer the very best in society golf: £500k investment in new changing rooms and bar areas Extensive experience of delivering high level group golf A friendly and professional golf team focused on making your day one to remember The Warren would love to host your golf society this year, please get in touch on 01245 224662 or enquiries@warrengolfclub.co.uk The Warren Golf & Country Club, Woodham Walter, Essex, CM9 6RW www.thewarrenestate.co.uk

Warley Park Members Miss Chance to Win ÂŁ40,000

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arley Park Golf Club had 18 of the original 21 members together also inviting 150 members to compete in a competition.

Stuart Orrin the clubs general manager said part of the competition was that on the 18th hole a hole in one would win ÂŁ40,000. We invited the the original 21 members who have been here since 1975 to try for this prize. Unfortunately no one won the prize which is a great shame, we would loved to have paid the money out, we really wanted someone to win.

For the founding members, club champion Ryan Cox hit a ball with their initials on for each golfer. Whichever one of them was closest to the hole won 40 years free membership.

A total of 20 of the 21 balls reached the green on hole 18 which is a 192 yards par three. The nearest to the hole was a ball with the name of Dennis Smith which was 18 inches from the pin.

He was presented with a frame with pictures and his ball mounted into it. Dennis’ new membership means he will be 125 when he has to pay his fees again!

As golfers start to prepare for the coming season there are upgrades being made at Warley Park.

We have improvements to the 1st hole explained Stuart Orrin, as part of our 40th celebrations, I asked members what improvements they wanted as we have a little pot of money to spend. So we have put in a nice decorative bridge and re-landscaped the first fairway.

Warley Park is open 364 days a year to members and public.

For more information call 01277 224891 email enquiries@warleypark.co.uk.

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18 HOLE SOCIETY OFFER

£40 – 18 HOLES RANGE BALLS

COFFEE AND BACON BAPS ONE COURSE MEAL

AVAILABLE

ALL WEEK

1ST MARCH TO 31ST OCTOBER

Call the Pro Shop now on

01277 200 441 www.warleypark.co.uk

1880

Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club offers 27 quality holes of excellent golf

PAY & PLAY

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

PAY & PLAY

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

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

01394 286 834 - 13 -

ion tit pe Com Pr iz e

DOES THIS GREAT ESSEX GOLF HOLE

look familiar?

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

Only 1 entry per person. No cash equivalent.

ON ITI R T PE NE M O C WIN

Last month’s winner was Danny Bear who recognised the 16th Hole at Burstead Golf Club.

To play at Burstead Golf Club Call 01277 631 171 www.thebursteadgolfclub.com - 14 -

TAKE YOUR b Fe

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y ar ru

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EVERYWHERE YOU GO!

Langdon Hills Golf

www.essexgol fer.c

ESSEX GOLFE R MAGA ZINE – SERVIN G THE

Club

om

GOLFE RS OF ESSEX SINCE 1996

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Ma rch

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IT’S EASY WITH FREE DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION Being a digital subscriber you are able to view online the latest issue of Essex Golfer instantly to your tablet or smartphone.

Gosfield Lake

Golf Club

fer.com www.essexgol – SERVIN G THE R MAGA ZINE ESSEX GOLFE -1-

Telephone: Tony or Helen 01621 815 577 To get your FREE subscription today please visit www.essexgolfer.com for details.

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1996 ESSEX SINCE GOLFE RS OF

Winter Special

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

GOLF • CLUB

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

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

01277 631 171

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

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

SPOT THE THORPENESS WINTER GOLFER

Is your golf course an unplayable lie in winter?

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

Flexible unit based winter golf memberships available.

For more information call 01728 454926 or email proshop@thorpeness.co.uk | www.thorpeness.co.uk - 17 -

Sarah Bennett Golf PGA Fellow Professional

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

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

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

Follow me on Facebook: SarahBennettGolf Twitter: @sbennettgolf

DON’T BE A

ROBOT W

hen I see a client for the first time after our initial introduction one of the most popular statements I hear is “I would like to be more consistent” The characteristic of golf is it is made of numerous aspects which we need to work on to achieve the sacred “consistency” Think back for a minute ... It is a typical English sunny Summers day, you have a game arranged after work, just as you are finishing up you receive a call which means you will have very

little time to relax prior to your tee time, if you even make your tee time.You arrive rushed, slightly stressed and unprepared.

Does this sound familiar? So my point here is “What are the chances of you playing consistent golf?”

I have listed below a few key areas, in my opinion which I believe have to be tackled to achieve your initial goal of becoming a consistent golfer.

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• Psychological aspects • Nutrition (Did you even have time to pack your water due to the phone call?)

• Warm up routine • General well-being and Fitness • Mental & Pre and post shot routine • Technical or non “technical” on the course • Acceptance • Decision making Many of us struggle on the course when we do not hit the “perfect” drive from the first tee, which more often or not is the outcome of a rushed preparation as in my example above. We need to look at the game as a challenge, accepting our Iron Byron mistimed shots.

The Tour player during a round of golf may hit approximately 20% of their shots how they really would like.

We are not robots so have fun and accept the challenge and work on all areas of your game.

Not even Iron Byron pictured above hits the perfect shots every time,” play with flair feel and focus” “To play well you must feel tranquil and at peace, I have never been troubled by nerves in golf because I felt I had nothing to lose and everything to gain” Harry Vardon

The course is set in 240 acres of beautiful parkland in the Essex countryside.

The Club hosted the R and A Regional Qualifier Open for five years.

MIDWEEK OFFER 18 HOLES PLUS A PINT (or equivalent)

£20.00 The offer is available after 10.00a.m. and valid until April 24th (excludes Bank Holidays) Tee times must be booked between 2 and 7 days in advance and are subject to availability.

Sarah Bennett

Sarah is delighted to announce a full schedule of 2016 Events and activities for GolfingGirl the longest running Ladies Academy designed and delivered by a former Ladies European Tour player and England Regional Coach.

TWILIGHT OFFER (weekdays after 2.00p.m.)

Until 24th April

£15.00 per person (Golf Only) Subject to availability.

Please contact Sarah: SarahBennettGolf.Co.uk M: 07719617349

Call Pro-Shop on

01708 688 333

Abridge Golf Club RM4 1ST - 19 -

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

HOW TO

COMBAT

BACK PAIN W

inter or bad weather is the perfect time and good opportunity to “fix” any injuries or back pain. Winter should always be the time you, a golfer, should spend more time in the gym so you are ready and in good form for the next season!

Back pain affects a very high percentage of golfers, professional or not, old or young, back pain should not be restricting your game and there really is no need for it. A good specific flexibility programme and golf conditioning programme will eradicate pain and improve your game.

I find through assessment that most golfers need postural work, core stability and more balanced flexibility ... not just flexibility, I find the main problem with lack of flexibility is when it’s not equal. The right side is much tighter than the left or visa versa, or even worse the upper body is tight on the right and lower body left ... this puts the body under huge amounts of stress ... then you add a sport like golf and the body breaks down. It’s very important when stretching that - 20 -

you stretch the tighter side twice to he once on the not so tight side.

Below is one of my favourite exercises to improve posture, stability in the back by strengthening the multifidus, the transverse abdominis, internal obliques and general function ... on all 4’s, relax the back and shoulders, draw the belly button to the spine and use the pelvic floor, then lift 1 hand and the opposite knee 1cm off the floor ... no more that 1 cm, keep the body as still as possible and keep the movement very small!! Hold for 20seconds then swap sides and repeat 6-8 times. Do this daily for 2 weeks to see a real improvement.

For a real advanced athlete try on a Swiss ball!!

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Looking at changing club?

7 day Trial Golf Memberships available in March and April for Only £75.

There’s never been a better time to come and join us!

And if you join during your trial we will give you your money back.

Call Today 01376 346079 or Email clubmanager@braintreegolfclub.co.uk www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk

T&C’s apply

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From Inside the Greenkeepers Shed

T

hankfully we are at the back end of winter now which hasn’t been a cold and harsh one however it has been if not more difficult with the mild and wet weather we have experienced this year, indeed when I went into work at 6am Boxing Day morning to set the course up it was 14°c.

The mild temperatures have meant greater numbers of golfers on the course. However, the associated rainfall has created additional wet and worn traffic areas. Golfers may find roped off areas annoying, but the greenstaff at your course are only doing it to protect vulnerable areas from wear and compaction, likewise, when the decision is made to take off buggies its purely to protect the course from unnecessary wear and tear. Another problem the mild damp winter has presented has been high levels of disease pressure on the putting greens, pathogenic fungi are active in great numbers at this time of year, and your Course Manager is constantly watching for signs of Fusarium, which attacks all grasses but can have a devastating effect on annual meadow grass, which is found on most greens. To try to combat this the greenstaff will try to keep moisture off the greens and allow as much air and light onto the surfaces as possible, while spring and autumn maintenance is centred around reducing built-up organic matter and this is where the spores of the pathogenic fungi reside. If your Course Manager does notice disease developing he has to make a quick decision, whether to apply a fungicide and preventing a full-blown disease outbreak, it is not a decision he will take lightly as each application cost a great deal of money, and budgets are still tight for maintenance across many courses.

March traditionally sees the start of spring renovations though some clubs may wait until April as they see quicker recovery with higher soil temperatures. We all appreciate that golfers do not like it when the greenkeepers punch lots of holes into the greens and then cover them with sand making them all bumpy and slow, however it is very much a case of short-term pain for long-term gain. Most Course Managers will hollow tine the greens to remove thatch, which has accumulated over winter and then fill

these holes with sand.

So what is thatch and why is it a greenkeepers worst enemy? Thatch is dead fiborous roots from the grass plant that builds up near the rootzone surface. Just as humans shed skin and hair over a lifetime a grass plant will see some older leaves, and roots die in what plant scientists call senescence. Thatch acts like a sponge holding water and leaves a surface soft and prone to marking under foot. It is also a nasty breeding ground for grass plant pathogens that can result in fungal disease across the grass sward.

Therefore, good cultural practice is to keep thatch levels below 10% in the top 25mm of rootzone. To keep thatch and organic matter below 10% greenstaff core the greens to remove this thatch and replace it with clean sand, which helps surface drainage and is resistant to compaction, it also helps to provide firmer greens. Also at the same time some overseeding may take place, here your greenkeepers are trying to increase the amount of finer grasses in the greens which are far more sustainable and provide a smoother surface. For a short period of time, the greenkeepers will raise the height of cut on the green’s mowers to give every chance for the seedlings to mature, cutting may periodically be replaced by rolling and this is to help give those seeds every chance of developing otherwise overseeding would be wasting money.

Every Course Manager will be working hard to get the greens back to normal playing conditions. However, we cannot control mother nature, and this is where we hope winter doesn’t prolong into the early spring months as does you the golfer.

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

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

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

Are we the Driest Course in Essex?

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

£825 £450 £665

-ON-CR

BU

N

M HA

£76 PER FOURBALL OU

CH

R

GREEN FEE OFFER FOR MARCH.

GO

LF CLUB

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

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

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TEETIME Midweek Golf from £9.00 Weekend Golf from £10.00 • • • • •

Tee times available 7 days a week Golf buggies for hire Fully stocked Golf Shop Food & drink available Floodlit Driving Range & tuition available

belhusparkgolfclub.co.uk Belhus Park Golf and Country Club Belhus Park | South Ockendon | Essex RM15 4PX | (01708) 854260 Charity number: Thurrock Community Leisure 1080186

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West Essex Golf Club, Chingford, Essex London Junior Open Golf Championship

T

he London Junior Open Golf Championship will be held at the fantastic West Essex Golf Course on Friday 1st April 2016.

The next generation of golfers is always the most important, so too are the Junior initiatives we create within our game. At West Essex we are giving our winner of the London Junior Open a chance to play alongside the top professionals in the region and some top names such as Phil Golding, Simon Khan, Raymond Russell, Robert Coles, Mark Davis, Lloyd Kennedy, Steve Cipa, Jason Levermore to name just a few.

This event is open to all juniors under the age of 18, with an official CONGU handicap.

“Its going to be such an exciting event and with the winner receiving this amazing opportunity, we certainly hope all our Juniors enjoy the day” says West Essex Head Professional Chris Baron FPGA. Our dedication to developing and nurturing our

junior talent is evident by the number of championship winning golfers and teams the club has produced.

Past winners include our youth shield team 1989, 1991, 1998, 2006, 2010 & 2011, also accompanied by The Junior Team Golf Home Nations Inter-Club Champions in 2010.

Our very own Oliver Fisher created history with Walker Cup honours, then progressing onto the main tour and winning the Czech Open in 2011.

Alongside Oli we have a string of talent that will emerge over the coming years.

Entry forms are now available through our website.

We look forward to welcoming you to West Essex in April.

Please contact James Levick for more information: 020 8529 7558 or alternatively james@westessexgolfclub.co.uk

Captains Drive in at Rochford Hundred Golf Club

O

n a very windy Sunday morning, more than a hundred Rochford Hundred Golf Club Members cheered on its new Captain, Scotsman and retired Hockley Vet, Marshall Dale who was piped in by a fully regaled piper at his traditional drive-in.

Dressed in his tartan trews and tam-o’-shanter he managed to send the golf ball an impressive 176 yards into the wind despite his brother John, adorned in a kilt, firing both barrels of a shotgun just as Marshall was starting his downswing.

Also joining Marshall in his drive-in were Aaron Hilsum, Hi-Fliers (new to golf youngsters)

Champion, Cadet Jack Dyer, newly elected Essex under 18’s Champion as well Rob and Jim, two of Marshalls sons.

After the drive in ceremony Marshall was joined by many club members as well as his family and friends for a very traditional lunch of haggis, neeps and tatties washed down with copious amounts of wine and whiskey the latter being served in traditional Quaich’s.

Diners were treated to musical entertainment from the piper and later by a guitarist.

A great time was had by all with celebrations continuing through to the evening.

- 24 -

Lnff^k @he_ ;k^Zdl bg +)*/

STAY | PL AY | DINE N Overrnight accommodation for 2 people sharing a standard twin or double room I Includes breakfast, 1 round of golf and 2 course bar me enu dinner Ikb\^l _khf * FZr mh ,* H\mh[^k +)*/

Contact Mark on:

T: 01304 611118 6 E: office@ @pr incesgolfclub.cco.uk W: www..p pr incesgolfclub.co o.uk Ikbg\^ l @he_ <en[% Sandwich Bay,, Sandwich h, Kent CT13 9QB

/princesgolfclub lfclub@Princesgolfclub

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

And What Now? I

’m sure you’re well underway and flying with your new year’s resolutions. Have you completed your dry month and are you preparing yourself for a fit and focused 2016?

Previously we’ve highlighted what to eat around the golf course, how to fuel the day before and during a tournament and discussed, in great depth, optimal hydration. But, what should you do AFTER? When should you eat and more importantly, Food

WHAT should you eat?

Post training – whether it’s a rigorous round or post gym stint, your muscles need refuelling.

Optimally take on energy (calories) as soon as possible and definitely within 30 minutes.

Your post-training snack needs to include protein (in the form of whey protein e.g. Solgar Whey-2-Go or even milk protein providing you’re not lactose or milk intolerant).

The following chart will help

GOOD SOURCES OF PROTEIN Portion size Protein (g) Kcal

Meat and Fish Beef, fillet steak, grilled, lean Chicken breast, grilled meat only Turkey, light meat, roasted Cod, poached Mackerel, grilled Tuna, canned in brine

2 slices 105g 1 breast 130g 2 slices 140g 1 fillet 120g 1 fillet 150g 1 small tin (100g)

31 39 47 25 31 24

197 191 214 113 359 99

Dairy products and eggs Cheese, cheddar Cottage cheese Skimmed milk Low-fat yoghurt, plain Low-fat yoghurt, fruit Fromage frais, fruit Egg

1 thick slice (40g) 1 small carton (112g) 1 glass (200ml) 1 carton (150g) 1 carton (150g) 1 small carton (100g) 1, size 2

10 15 7 8 6 7 8

165 110 66 84 135 131 90

Nuts and Seeds Peanuts, Roasted and salted Peanut butter Cashew nuts, roasted and salted Walnuts Sunflower seeds Sesame seeds

1 handful (50g) on 1 slice bread (20g) 1 handful (50g) 1 handful (50g) 2 tbsp. (32g) 2 tbsp. (24g)

12 5 10 7 6 4

301 125 306 344 186 144

Pulses Baked beans Red lentils, boiled Red kidney beans, boiled Chick peas, boiled

1 small tin (250g) 3 tbsp. (120g) 3 tbsp. (120g) 3 tbsp. (140g)

10 9 10 12

166 120 124 169

Soya products Soya milk, plain Soya mince Tofu Tofu burger

1 glass (200ml) 2 tbsp. dry weight (30g) Half a pack (100g) 1 burger 60g

6 13 8 5

64 79 73 71

Foods most dense in valuable amino acids are tuna, turkey, chicken, eggs and white fish. Tuna wraps, turkey wholemeal sandwiches, chicken, avocado and salad pittas would all be ideal. As a general rule, during the whole day, ensure you get 1g of protein per kg of your body weight. Happy replenishment!

- 26 -

FORRESTER PARK GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

MEMBERSHIPS THREE-MONTHS’ TRIAL FULL MEMBERSHIP: £150 All the rights of a full member; Gain a handicap; Play in club competitions; Clubhouse discount card; 7 day advance booking; Up to £150 off your sub if you continue your membership (Ts & Cs apply)

FLEXIBLE ‘CLUB’ MEMBERSHIP: £310 One year’s golf membership; 60 greenfee credits; One year’s golf union membership; 7 day advance booking; Gold discount card; Play in club competitions; Gain a handicap “I’VE SPENT MOST OF MY LIFE GOLFING – THE REST I’VE JUST WASTED”, ANON

01621 891406 FORRESTER PARK, BECKINGHAM ROAD, GREAT TOTHAM, NR MALDON, ESSEX CM9 8EA INFO@FORRESTER-PARK.CO.UK / WWW.FORRESTER-PARK.CO.UK

GOLF IN FRANCE

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

MARCH OFFER 2016 pp

£185

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

Wimereux - Belle Dune - Le Touquet Forest HOTEL METROPOLE

SEASONAL OFFER

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

(May – September)

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

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

Le Touquet or Hardelot

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

Golf Monday - Thursday. Supplements for weekend Golf.

- 27 -

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

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

The 20 YARD Pitch Why is it Harder Than it SHOULD BE? L

ots of players struggle on a short chip or pitch shot, and if you are one of those people. What can that tell you about your game? If you were to throw a ball, 20 yards chances are you could do this very well... It makes no sense because often a player will play longer shots very competently. If you are not striking these shots correctly, it will cause you a lot of frustration as the short pitch is a key shot for scoring.

What it may indicate is • Set-up is out of position, • Your body is not working correctly, • You have a hitting motion instead of a swing • Poor control of the low point of the swing arc

Professional to see how you play this shot, and to show you some easy way to implement ideas, you could be in the minority of players who play the 20 yard shot very well.

If this sounds like you, there is a solution and these problems can easily be fixed. Ask your PGA

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

I

s your Golf on the course different to the Driving Range? If you would like to improve your game on the course, I am offering a 4 hole or 9 hole on a course session to a make a real difference to your scores. We can see what is happening where it counts and make a plan to improve your game. Cost is £40 for a 4 hole session and £55 for a 9 hole session. Please get in contact to book your consultation... Offer expires 15th April Quote Essex Golfer, and you will receive £5 off...

- 28 -

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

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

7 Day Annual Membership Now Only

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

For further information on membership please contact Chris Nunn Director of Golf on

01277 631 171 chris.nunn@thebursteadgolfclub.com

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

Clacton-on-Sea Golf Club

Play Golf at Clacton on Mondays and Thursdays Golf + Ham Egg & Chips

£25pp

Contact 01255

421919

Clacton-on-Sea Golf Club West Road, Clacton-on-Sea Essex CO15 1AJ

www.clactongolfclub.com - 29 -

Oldest Golf Pub in World to be Demolished?

Y

ou would not think it possible to demolish a historic building in 2015 in Scotland without even the possibility of saving it being explored by the Council. But this is exactly what is happening in Musselburgh. ‘Mrs Forman’s’ is the oldest golf pub in the world, but plans are afoot to demolish it and turn it into a garage.

Forman’s was built in 1822, but achieved world-wide fame as Mrs Forman’s when Marion Forman began running it on her husband’s death in 1843. The quality of her fare was legendary and she figures in the first golf history book Reminiscences of the Old Bruntsfield Links Golf Club.

Musselburgh Old Course has been recognised as the oldest in the world and the site of the Open for many years in the 19th century. More Open Champions have come from Musselburgh than anywhere else. Mrs. Forman’s provided the hospitality to all of them. But now it is just a plot of extremely valuable development land which will create three ‘millionaire houses’, with unparalleled views over the Old Course to Arthur’s Seat. Recently the Council filled in 11 bunkers on the course to save money.

Mrs. Forman’s was the site of a major ‘Brookline’ golfing incident in 1870, when Old Tom Morris from St Andrews and Willie Park Snr were playing a close match for high stakes. Willie was from Musselburgh and the local crowd were

interfering with Old Tom’s play. The umpire halted the match during the refreshment break in Mrs. Forman’s. Willie Park refused to accept that the umpire had the power to do that he went back and finished the match. The following day, when Old Tom walked the course and was declared the winner, Willie Park arrested the stakes. In the end the match was declared void.

The tavern is a mecca to all serious golf players.

The list of famous champions who are said to have eaten there includes not just the old golfing champions but the 20th century ones as well – Harry Verdun, James Braid, Ben Sayers, Bobbie Jones and many of those around today.

This has been described as a tragedy by many golf historians. Neil Laird of Scottish Golf History on the web, had just finished the research proving Mrs. Forman’s was the oldest golf pub in continuous operation when he discovered that it was closed. “It was a shock. And it will be big loss to Musselburgh,” he says.

Heritage sells. As Mr. Laird pointed out “Musselburgh struggles to attract golf business and this will seriously reduce the visitor interest, which is much in this pub it is in the Old Links. I am sure that support could be raised to keep it going.You can build houses anywhere, but there is only one Mrs. Forman’s. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.”

“You cannot help feeling that people will come to regret this,” says Neil Laird.

Mrs Forman’s by Henry Rowntree (c 1900) - 30 -

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

*5 day trial trial i l mem m membership bersh bers er hi hip

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

*6 day trial membership

members card for food and drink

*7 day trial membership

£99 £125 £149

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

200441 for more details

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

Anthony is The Boss

C

olchester golfer will have no excuse for missing his next tee-time after winning a limited-edition BOSS watch for achieving a holein-one.

Anthony Meredith, 69, scored his ace on the 166-yard, par-three fifth at Birch Grove Golf Club, and the 19-handicapper was rewarded with membership of the exclusive BOSS Watches H1Club and a specially-commissioned, commemorative timepiece.

THE WARREN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Registered PGA assistant’s required to commence employment April 2016.

Excellent opportunity for individuals looking to commence PGA Foundation Degree/1st year student. Must be well presented, personable and sales focused.

Full training given, opportunities to play and coach encouraged.

Email enquiries@warrengolfclub.co.uk for further details or to apply with CV and covering letter.

- 31 -

Girls’ Golf to Benefit Through Golf Foundation Brooch Competitions

G

irls new to golf are to benefit from a change to the Golf Foundation’s annual ‘Brooch Competition’, held by golf clubs up and down the U.K. Each year the nationally recognised golf charity teams up with ladies’ sections/golf clubs to stage fundraising competitions which offer a prize of a high quality brooch, produced by Links of London exclusively for the Golf Foundation.

Through its HSBC Golf Roots programme, the Golf Foundation’s aim is to make golf and its benefits available to any young person and help them to ‘Start, Learn and Stay’ in the sport. HSBC Golf Roots supports England Golf, Scottish Golf and Golf Development Wales and since 2011 has helped introduce more than 2.5 million young people to golf across the United Kingdom.

While traditionally, money raised from the Brooch Competition would fund a variety of projects, in 2016 every pound raised will be invested directly into helping more girls to enjoy golf, offering them the Skills for Life, a Game for Life and a Healthy Life.

Golf Foundation Regional Development Officer Stacey Mitchell, who leads Girls Development for the charity, said: “The Brooch Competition is a great tradition in clubs and remains very popular with many, so we really wanted to continue with this. By putting all the money raised into girls’ golf projects exclusively in 2016 we now hope this will fire the imagination of more women in our golf clubs, encouraging them to put something back into the game and support the next generation of girl players.”

All British golf clubs will receive an attractive leaflet detailing the new Brooch Competition, urging the members to support girls’ golf development by staging their own event this summer.

Stacey added: “All funds will be spent carefully as part of a major effort by the Golf Foundation to welcome more girls into the sport, so we really do need the support of women golfers to help this important participation drive.”

Recent examples from the Foundation in this area include ‘Girls Golf Rocks’, a joint project in partnership with England Golf, where county squad players help as mentors and leaders for new young girls being introduced to golf at local golf clubs in their area. The project started in Essex as a pilot last year and was successful (creating 20 new regular players) and now this year Girls Golf Rocks will be expanded throughout England, in each of eight counties.

The PGA Collection will be providing an attractively coloured 7-iron to every participant of these projects to help the girls get started.

Similarly innovative, a ‘Girl Guides Golf ’ pilot project in South Lincs in partnership with Belton Woods Golf Club, will see 10 Girl Guide groups receiving a taster session before the girls go on to play in a teams competition day at the golf club in May. This will consist of fun activities, skills challenges, competitions but also a big focus on the social aspect of golf and Skills for Life. The project also features plenty of follow-on opportunities for the girls.

Each of the Golf Foundation’s eight Regional Development Officers has also been tasked to run a progressive initiative for girls of their own in 2016.

All golf clubs who regularly support the Brooch Competition will receive their Brooch prize as usual in the Spring. Golf clubs taking part in the Brooch Competition will need to make a minimum donation of £35 to cover the cost of the Brooch prize. Clubs can learn more about the appeal by calling 01992 449830. www.golf-foundation.org

- 32 -

Call into your local Ernest Doe store to view our extensive product range

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

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

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We're online too at www.ukgolfbuggies.co.uk

The PGA in Essex

Secretary: Colin Reynolds pgainessex@yahoo.co.uk

Tel: 0771 3926 108 www.pga.info

The first full event of 2016 was played at Woodbridge Golf Club with an almost record field of Essex golfers eager to experience the ‘dry’ fairways of Suffolk.

Woodbridge Pro-Am

T

he first full event of 2016 was played at Woodbridge Golf Club with an almost record field of Essex golfers eager to experience the ‘dry’ fairways of Suffolk.

It turned out to be a clean sweep for Steve Hambling from Braintree Golf Club who won the professional event with an impressive 3 under par 67 which was good enough to win by 4 shots.

In second place was Porsche Order of Merit

leader Lloyd Kennedy from Woolston Manor and joint third on 2 over par 72 were Steve Cipa from South Essex Golf Centre, Chris Goddard from Romford Golf Club and Mark Bishop from Toot Hill.

Hambling completed his day by taking the ProAm with his team of Paul Buchan, Sean Kelly and Paul Moreton who won by 1 point with an excellent score of 84 points, 12 under par.

Gog Magog Pro-Am

D

espite a cold day in Cambridgeshire, the course at Gog Magog was in fantastic condition with really good greens and the 24 teams who made their way north enjoyed a really good day.

The Professional prize was taken by Andy Shakespear from the Warren Golf and Country Club with a solid 3 under par 67 which was enough to take the first place Cheque by 1 shot. In joint second were Mark Stokes from the Rayleigh Driving range, Mark Talbott from Thorpe Hall Golf Club and Luke Eggleston from LE Custom Fitting.

The team event was won with 88 points by the team led by Matt Stables from North Weald Golf Club.

Essex Open

E

ntries are now being taken for the Prequalifying competition for the Essex Open in May.The Pre-qualifier will be held at the Burstead on March 23rd and a separate entry form is attached to this report.The event is open to all PGA Professionals and Category 1 amateurs and we look forward to a big entry from our Essex amateurs.

PGA in Essex Captain Chris Nunn with Professional Matt Stables and amateurs Colin Greenhill, Craig O’Halloran and Keith Lovett.

Thorpeness Classic

A

new venture in February was an overnight stay at the splendid Thorpeness Hotel for a Better Ball competition involving Professionals and their amateur partners.

Good food and a convivial atmosphere made it an excellent two days with some good golf thrown in as well. Taking the honours in the Better Ball competition were Mark Talbott and David Yang from Thorpe Hall Golf Club and the individual Professional prize was won by Porsche Order of Merit leader Lloyd Kennedy from Woolston Manor Golf Club.

- 34 -

The PGA in Essex present

THE 96TH ESSEX OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP at

THE BURSTEAD GOLF CLUB Entries are invited from Essex PGA Professionals and Essex based Amateur Golfers to compete for the

ESSEX OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP Pre-Qualifying Wednesday 23th March – (18 holes stroke play) entry fee - £30 Championship Wednesday 11th May – (36 holes stroke play) Qualifiers entry fee £30 • Exempt players entry fee £60 The final field will consist of a maximum of 72 players including all exempt players (amateur and professional) Closing date for entries 17th March 2016 Professionals may enter online www.pga.info via bluegolf (exempt players are still required to enter)

$

The draw will be available from 19th March 2016 on the PGA in Essex web site; all amateurs will be advised of their tee time by e-mail.

The Essex PGA Open Championship Pre-Qualifying, The Burstead Golf Club, Wednesday 23rd March 2016

Name: ___________________________________________________________________ Golf Club: ____________________________________ Handicap: _________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Telephone: ______________________ Email: ___________________________________ Signed: _______________________________________ Date:______________________ Please include a cheque for £30 made payable to Essex PGA with your entry and send together with the entry form to: The Secretary, PGA in Essex, 52 Leslie Park, Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex.CM0 8SZ Any queries please call 07713 926 108 or e-mail: pgainessex@yahoo.co.uk

The

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

W

elcome to the 2016 competition, and especially to our forty-four competing clubs who will be battling it out this year to become our Champions in September.

I am pleased to say that we have been able to accommodate a late entry into the competition this year so that Thorpe Hall do join us in 2016; unfortunately this was at the loss of North Weald due to some unforeseen circumstances.

Recently, the competition 2016 Annual General Meeting was held, and kindly hosted at Brentwood Golf Club. My thanks goes to Russell and Sue at Brentwood who their kind and excellent hospitality to the Committee and the representation from a number of clubs.

The 2016 draw was completed in December 2015, with our 44 teams being distributed between 8 divisions in our League phase, with first round matches needing to be played by 10th April.

Round 1

10th April 2016

Round 3

5th June 2016

Round 2

8th May 2016

Round 4

3rd July 2016

Competition timescales were discussed at the AGM. 2016 dates as below, and a lot of discussion was held for the future progress and continuous improvement in the competition.

Of particular note was our ongoing desire to move back to a situation where both first and second leading clubs in each division go forward to the knock-out phase (as opposed to the current Division winners only). Consideration was stated that should this be enacted in 2017, a further round/match (with host venues) will be required in July/August â&#x20AC;&#x201C; can you please take this suggestion/request back to you clubs and discuss to ensure this can be accommodated next year. Thanks!

Of considerable important for our matches stating next month were some key rules changes - please do check fully our latest rules for 2016 competition on the website at www.jubileecup.com/matches2016/rules2016.pdf In summary however, the Committee confirmed that 4BBB games will be played using the 9/10th handicap differential (changing from three-quarters). Our eligibility rules (Rule 1.1) have been tightened further, as well as team composition rules, league format, and a recommendation from the Committee on leaving mobile devices off the course entirely in non-emergency situations.

The Committeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thanks must continue to go to the Seabrook Warehousing Limited, and especially Mike Seabrook, who was not able to join us at the AGM (enjoying time with his grandchildren at the time), who continues to support the competition. Many thanks Mike and team at www.seabrookwarehousing.com The full set of Divisions making up the 2016 competition, and all the individual matches drawn are detailed on the Jubilee Cup website for you perusal. Here you can click down to each of the four rounds www.jubileecup.com/matches2016/draw2016.html - 36 -

The first round of the competition drawn is also shown in full below: 1st Round Matches to be played by 10th of April 2016 Div A

Crondon Park

v

Benton Hall

Div A

Notleys (The)

v

West Essex

Div A

South Essex

v

Ilford

Div B

Chigwell

v

Stoke by Nayland

Div B

Top Meadow

v

Three Rivers

Div B

Mardyke Valley

v

Abridge

Div C

Brentwood

v

Woolston Manor

Div C

Epping

v

Playgolf Colchester

Div C

Gosfield Lakes

v

Channels

Div D

Stock Brook Manor

v

Colne Valley

Div D

Stapleford Abbotts

v

North Weald Golf

Div D

Garon Park

v

Royal Epping Forest

Div E

Five Lakes

v

Warley Park

Div E

Rayleigh Club (The)

v

Warren (The)

Div F

Wanstead

v

Rochford Hundred

Div F

Burnham On Crouch

v

Clacton on Sea

Div G

Regiment Way

v

Colchester

Div G

Burstead (The)

v

Forrester Park

Div H

Bentley

v

Essex (The)

Div H

Loughton

v

Manor of Groves

All the best for the Season, and looking forward to a great Jubilee Cup in 2016. As an advance noted, the next Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday 23rd November 2016 (venue TBC nearer the time) where we will do the 2017 draw.

Best regards Phil

- 37 -

Essex County News email: info@essexgolfer.com

www.essexgolfunion.org

The Essex Golf Union in continued partnership with the Norman Garon Trust is extremely proud to present the new and exciting Under 14 Community Golf Tour.

Over the course of the closed season a considerable amount of thought was put into how Junior golf development could be enhanced to provide a clear pathway for boys and girls across the county to discover, participate and develop their enjoyment of golf. With different tours at different age groups and a lack of opportunities for younger players looking to get into the game the challenge was to create a more inclusive The Un formula. Furthermore, with a de r 1 4 Commu traditional focus towards competitive n i t y Golf To Sponso interaction it was felt there needed to red Driving ur 2016 Golfing by the NORMA Opportu N GAR be a greater leaning towards fun and nities fo ON TR r U Youngs enjoyment throughout the age ters in E ST ssex groups – getting the balance right was crucial to the Tour revision.

As a result, the decision was made to merge the Under 12 and Under 14 Tours and introduce a new Under 10 section, the former being played over 18 holes whilst the latter being played over 9 Gosfield Dates & holes. Coupled with this, we North Lake Venue Wea s for 20 Fo rrester ld have introduced skills events 16 P ar k Three Rivers Wednes Langdo d during the day to add to the Sunday ay 6 April n Hills Frinton 1 May Sunday enjoyment.

Crowla 12 Ju ne Sunday n Maylan ds Heath 3 July Monday d Crowla s This is very much the start of Sunday 25 July nds Hea U 1 4 Ch Colne V 3 th ampion Thursd 1 July alley sh U12 Ch ay a new journey to develop a Chann ampion ip el Tuesday 4 August ship Garon s 9 Augu P T ar h u st k rsday foundation for future golfers Tuesday 11 August JGT Pre sentati 16 Au Competit T on of all abilities to embrace u gust es Evenin day 23 ions for Please g U Au nder Friday Log in to 26 Au gust The Esse 10, Under 11, our game and we welcome gust U x Golf U nion W nder 12, Under www.e ebsite fo 13 ss ex & go U 1 you to join us as we teender 14 lfunion 8 Hole C r furthe .o Bo r rg de ys & G /u14 tails o ls 9 Hole C mpetition -Entr _community_golf_tanoud Application foirrm off! s. r o y th

st

th

rd

th

st

th

th

th

th

rd

th

Up and Coming Competitions

mpetiti fee £12 on -E .50 County U12 & U ntry fee £10.0 per event 0 14 cham pionship per event £15.00

Online Sign Up and Entry to the Sir Michael Bonallack Trophy / Colts Championship, Essex Amateur Championship and Essex Seniors Championship is now available on our website www.essexgolfunion.org - 38 -

Want to live longer?

Take up Golf!

M

any describe golf as ‘a good walk ruined’, but in actual fact, golf is said to have greater health benefits than walking and as well as other more strenuous forms of exercise.

Research* led by Professor Anders Ahlbom in Sweden shows that playing the game of golf can add an average of five years to your life. A study conducted on 500,000 golfers led Professor Ahlbom to conclude that many aspects of the game were beneficial to health. He says, ‘in a game of golf, you can walk for 4-5 hours walking at a pace of 6 to 7 kph which is good for the health’.

As well as direct physiological benefits, golf positively impacts people on a social and psychological level. The interaction with other players on and off the course and social events held by golf clubs can contribute to a longer lifespan. In fact, the research found that the lowest death rates were found among golfers with the lowest handicaps. They are 47% less likely to die at any time than non-golfers of the same age.

‘Maintaining a low handicap involves playing a lot, so this supports the idea that it is the game itself that is good for the health,’ Prof Ahlbom goes on to say that other factors outside the golf course, such as the fact that people who enjoy sport also generally lead a healthier lifestyle, could play a part in the findings, published; however, he said that it was ‘likely’ that playing the game itself had a significant impact on health. *Research information obtained from Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports.

To try your hand at the glorious game of golf why not drop by our Golf Open Weekend at Stoke by Nayland Golf & Leisure and enquire about our newest Golf Guest Experience package? With this package you can play as much golf as you can for 1 whole month for just £99pp. An absolute steal if you are looking to see if this is the sport for you.

Call Mary on 01206 265841 or email mary.saward@stokegolfandleisure.com for more information about the Golf Guest Experience package or our Golf Open Weekend (Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th March).

- 39 -

18

beautiful holes of golf

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

Additional par 3 practice course

Societies welcome (Monday - Friday)

Limited membership available

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It’s waterproof up to 10 meters, shows Time/Date and comes preloaded with over 38,000 courses worldwide, all of which are available free of charge with never any expensive annual subscriptions like some GPS brands.

Colour: White/Light Sapphire

Bunker Mentality Launch 2016 – Unapologetically Bold

B

GolfBuddy Launches Exclusive Ladies’ GPS Watch

G

olfBuddy, the world-leading developer of distance measuring devices made exclusively for golfers, has announced the launch of the first golf GPS designed specifically for lady golfers.

The company’s new LD2 GPS watch is elegant, lightweight, super-accurate and brings high fashion to the course with a range of quality style features, including Swarovski® crystals and a rich alligator grain leather watch strap.

The combination of a stainless steel crown button and bezel, premium mineral lens and the light sapphire-coloured genuine Swarovski® crystals bring a feminine touch to a GPS that is packed with a huge array of features.

Weighing just 1oz and with a neat 1.18 display screen, the GolfBuddy LD2 boasts a slim, stylish case which sits unobtrusively on the wrist.

Distances to front/centre/back of the green are shown clearly, alongside distances to all hazards on a hole. It’s uncomplicated to use, with GolfBuddy’s Automatic Course/Hole Recognition System immediately picking up which course you’re playing – and even which hole – especially useful for shotgun starts.

GPS tracking and a built-in odometer mean the LD2 can double up as a ‘health band’ while the rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides eight hours’ use in GPS mode and up to one-year in standard watch mode.

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

These two styles are quite different, the first being a Paisley Pattern made famous by the town of Paisley in Scotland. Whilst the arabesque pattern was not invented in Paisley, the town is universally known for giving rise to its popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries, as it was the centre of shawl production featuring the pattern. The pattern was made famous again in the 60’s and the 80’s as part of British Mod youth culture, which gave Bunker the idea of introducing it to the great game of golf as a perfect pattern for Modern British Golf.

The second style also has strong links back to Mod culture with its vertical stripes on the front of the garment. Mod culture was a super-cool British sub-culture, characterized by smooth, sophisticated looks and styles in its menswear. Polo shirts were a big part of this, with small neat collars and various patterns including the vertical stripe. This shirt has a slimmer silhouette and smaller collar to bring this classic look right up to date to fit with our Modern British Golf.

Bunker Mentality is a brand for golf addicts, people with a love of the great game and who have a different mentality. The brand is distributed throughout Europe and the rest of the world in 12 countries. The company’s mission is to create modern British golf clothing that can be worn ‘from first tee to last orders’ with its designers drawing inspiration from popular culture and fashion. The brand is pushing the envelope of golf clothing without compromising golf etiquette. www.bunker-mentality.com

Golf Pride Introduces New Oversize Putter Series

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aton has announced that its Golf Pride® Grips Division is introducing an all-new oversized putter series called TOUR SNSRTM. The new grips feature larger Tour-proven shapes that are engineered with innovative SNSR material that delivers unsurpassed Tour-level feel and feedback.

The new TOUR SNSR Series features a softtuned rubber formulation that gives these grips an extraordinary feel, and encourages a lighter grip pressure that golfers seek in creating a smooth stroke. The new SNSR compound also enhances Tour-level feedback into the hands to improve player distance control.

Players can dial in the feel that fits them best with two Tour proven shapes, the TOUR SNSR CONTOUR and the TOUR SNSR STRAIGHT. TOUR SNSR CONTOUR is an evolution of the classic tapered pistol profile that is the shape preference of over 75% of Tour players. The pistol allows golfers to “lock in” their upper hand for consistent hand placement that translates to more confidence in every stroke.

TOUR SNSR STRAIGHT offers a contemporary, non-taper shape promoting a consistent hand pressure and feel. The straight taper design features soft, rounded edges that are strategically beveled for palm and finger pad comfort.

All four TOUR SNSR models feature a wide paddle front, sculpted to promote lighter grip pressure and consistent hand placement.

Additionally, they are each finished with a traction-textured design that provides heightened feel and moisture control. Each shape is available in two oversize options, 104cc and 140cc.

The TOUR SNSR Series will be available at retail in April. www.golfpride.com - 41 -

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

Little Channels, Pratts Farm Lane West Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PR Please call Michelle 01245 441 056 Email: michelle@channelsestate.co.uk For further information

www.channelsestate.co.uk

Girls’ Golf is Really Rocking in Essex!

Girls’ golf is about to get rocking – and Essex is leading the way in the campaign to inspire new, young players.

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irls Golf Rocks was trialled in the county last year and inspired 90 girls to try golf. It was so successful that it’s returning to Essex this spring and also being run in eight other counties.

Girls Golf Rocks is all about encouraging beginners to have fun, learn a new sport, get active and play alongside friends – with no pressure. Girl golfers from county squads will act as ambassadors, sharing their enjoyment and inspiring other girls, aged five to 18.

This year’s campaign tees off with free taster sessions, supported by the county girls, at the six clubs taking part: The Rayleigh Club on 3 April; Playgolf Colchester and Three Rivers Golf & Country Club on 8 April; West Essex Golf Club on 8 and 9

Some of the Essex Ambassadors for Girls Golf Rocks (© Leaderboard Photography) - 42 -

April; Garon Park Golf Complex and Little Channels Golf Club on 10 April.Visit www.getintogolf.org/essex for more information and to book.

Following the tasters with PGA professionals, the six clubs will each offer four-week structured coaching programmes, with the county girl players mentoring the newcomers. All the girls who complete the programme will be fitted with a free seven iron to help them continue to play.

The finale will be a fun par three competition at Little Channels in May when new young players can enjoy playing alongside their mentors.

Wendy Cook, the Essex county junior organiser, said: “Girls’ Golf Rocks was an ambitious project last year, which required the involvement of many volunteers, and the result was absolutely fantastic. I’m really looking forward to the 2016 campaign and I’d like to say to all the Golf Girls who are about to Rock, I salute you!”

The Essex ambassadors include two national champions, Lily May Humphreys, the English U14 girls’ champion and Sophie Wheeler, who won the Abraham Trophy as England’s most improved girl golfer.

Lily May, aged 13, took up golf when she was 10 and plays at Channels Golf Club. She said: “I have made the best friends ever and not just girls, you can play golf with the boys as well. You also get to travel to different places and meet up with friends you’ve made from other parts of the country. When you win a trophy it’s the best feeling ever.”

Sophie is also 13 and a member at Orsett Golf Club. Her dad got her started when she was five and she says: “I really enjoy being an Essex Ambassador and encouraging younger girls to

play this great sport.”

Currently, national figures show that only 1% of golf club members are girls, with an average of just two girls per club. When Girls Golf Rocks was trialled in Essex last summer it inspired 90 youngsters to try the game. Of those, 40 went on to take a four-week coaching course; 30 played in the par three competition and six became golf club members.

Girls Golf Rocks is led by England Golf and supported by the Golf Foundation, county associations and sports partnerships.

Lauren Spray, the England Golf Women & Girls’ Participation Manager, said: “Girls Golf Rocks sets out to focus on the fun, social and friendship aspects of golf, rather than just the playing and coaching side and we’ve had brilliant success.

“The ambassadors have been fantastic – they all love golf and they’re sharing their enthusiasm with our new players. They’ve also given us lots of feedback and really helped us give us a presence on Twitter @GirlsGolfRocks1 and Facebook.”

Girls Golf Rocks has coincided with a growing focus on the women and girls’ game and the launch of the video campaign #ThisGirlGolfs which aims to challenge perceptions and inspire participation. The video features women and girls from all over the country and from different walks of life and backgrounds who are enjoying golf for many reasons and fitting it into their everyday lives. www.englandgolf.org Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/EnglandGolfFacebook: www.facebook.com/EnglandGolf - 43 -

Future Golfing Events & Competitions 26/04/2016

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

19/05/2016

Bentley Golf Club Ladies Team Open. Includes tea/coffee and Danish pastry on arrival, halfway house and 2-course meal after golf. £140 per team. Tel: Alex Holmes 01277 373 179.

Email: info@bentleygolfclub.com. www.bentleygolfclub.com

22/05/2016

Chelmsford Golf Club Mixed Pairs Open. Includes tea/coffee and sandwiches on arrival, Pimms at halfway and extensive buffet luncheon after golf. £85 per couple. Tel: 01245 254 900.

Email: iain@chelmsfordgc.co.uk. www.chelmsfordgc.co.uk

14/06/2016

Chelmsford Golf Club Ladies Pairs Open. Includes coffee and Danish on arrival and extensive buffet luncheon after golf. £70 per pair. Tel: 01245 254900.

Email: iain@chelmsfordgc.co.uk. www.chelmsfordgc.co.uk

22/06/2016

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

Tel: 01376 346 079. Email: clubmanager@braintreegolfclub.co.uk. www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk

23/06/2016

Colchester Golf Club Gents Senior Pairs Open. Includes coffee on arrival and 2-course meal after golf £70 per pair. Tel: 01206 853 396. Email: secretary@colchestergolfclub.com. www.colchestergolfclub.com

27/06/2016

Three Rivers Golf & Country Club Ladies Team Open. Team of 3 Stableford - best 2 scores. £99 per team (3). Tel: 01621 829 781. Email: info@threeriversclub.com. www.threeriversclub.com

07/07/2016

Bentley Golf Club Gents Senior Pairs Open. Includes coffee on arrival and lunch (jacket and tie). £60 per pair. Tel: Alex Holmes 01277 373 179. Email: info@bentleygolfclub.com. www.bentleygolfclub.com

24/07/2016

Braintree Golf Club ‘Paul Farnsworth Trophy’ Gents Pairs Open. Includes lunch and evening meal. £66 per pair. Tel: 01376 346 079. Email: clubmanager@braintreegolfclub.co.uk. www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk

27/07/2016

Stapleford Abbotts Golf Club Ladies Team Open. Includes light breakfast on arrival, halfway refreshments and 2-course meal after golf. £102 per team (3) Tel: 01708 381108. www.staplefordabbottsgolf.co.uk

27/08/2016

Thorndon Park Golf Club Mixed Pairs Open. Mixed Sandwiches and coffee on arrival, refreshments at halfway house and two course summer buffet. £90 per couple.

Tel: 01277 810 345. Email: office@thorndonpark.com. www.thorndonparkgolfclub.com

01/09/2016

Bentley Golf Club Mixed Pairs Open. Includes tea/coffee and Danish on arrival, halfway refreshments and 2-course meal after golf. £70 per couple.Tel: Alex Holmes 01277 373 179.

Email: info@bentleygolfclub.com. www.bentleygolfclub.com

08/09/2016

Theydon Bois Golf Club Ladies Team Open. Includes coffee and Danish on arrival, home made cake and Pimms at halfway and rolling buffet after golf. £144 per team (4).

Tel: 01992 813 054. Email: colinjones@theydonboisgolfclub.co.uk. www.theydongolf.co.uk

09/09/2016

Thorndon Park Golf Club Ladies Pairs Open. Includes coffee and biscuits on arrival and carvery lunch after golf. £80 per pair. Tel: 01277 810 345. Email: office@thorndonpark.com www.thorndonparkgolfclub.com

13/09/2016

Five Lakes Five Lakes Ladies Open at Crowne Plaza Resort Colchester. Teams of 18 Hole stableford, best 2 scores to count on each hole, full handicap allowance. £35.00 per person. For entry form contact. £35.00 per person. Tel: 01621 892821.

Email: sarahm66@btinternet.com www.cpcolchester.co.uk/golf/members-area/ladies-go 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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Daily Mail Foursomes at Colchester J

ohn Dornan and Mike Withers are Colchester Golf Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s qualifiers in the Daily Mail Foursomes after their victory over the weekend.

Dornan playing off seven handicap and Withers off nine had a score of minus one in this bogey formatted competition. They did not have it all their own way as returning the same score were Alan Sharrocks (2) and Keith Newnham (6) who lost after the count back with their back nine of minus one losing out to Dornan and Withersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; plus one.

After the front, nine Dornan and Withers were two holes behind the pairing of Sharrocks and Newnham and the turning point came on the eleventh hole which with Dornan and Withers winning against a loss by Sharrocks and Newnham provided the two hole swing which levelled the scores. Their scores were neck and neck from then on, and it was the count back which eventually separated them.

Third place was taken with a score of minus two by Michael Mayes (12) and Mike Akin (13) with Ben David (-1) and Matt Everitt (7) in fourth on minus three.

Dornan and Withers go onto play Clacton Golf Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nominated pairing in the first round of this nationwide competition.

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Stoke-by-Nayland The Lady Vets Black Tee Monday T

he Lady Vets ventured forth on the back nine of the Gainsborough on Monday; 8th February for a nine holes Stableford off the new short-course black tees. It didn’t really speed up the round, although everyone was battling against the increasingly fierce winds of Storm Imogen.

The winning score of 29 points by birthday girl, Christine McVeigh, sounded more than respectable! Anne Hemmings was second with 25 points, and Rosie Allen was third with 22.

The competition also coincided with Chinese New Year so an extra prize was given for the best score on the 4th and 9th holes of play (the lucky numbers for the year of the Fiery Red Monkey) Lesley Hithcock won with 6 points. A quiz on all things Chinese was also devised to fill in the

walking time between green and tee. Lesley Hitchcock, Debbie Howlett and Nina Deasy were first and won some Chinese Rice Crackers – all they could ever want in the world!

After play, we were invited to the Gallery bar to celebrate Gill Dutton and Christine McVeigh’s special birthdays - there was cake a-plenty, candles and balloons, and it was such a pleasure to see all the non-players and social members who came to join them. Special thanks to Gill and to Christine for their hard work and hospitality and to Teresa Porter who came along with a sample of her own baking – now that is always a pleasure!

Christine McVeigh, winner with 29 points over 9 holes as well as celebrating her birthday, chips out of the bunker on the 18th Gainsborough.

Birthday girls, Christine McVeigh and Gill Dutton pose for a picture on the 18th Gainsborough after battling Storm Imogen during their 9 holes of golf.

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Mail on Sunday Sudden Death Defeat for Stoke by Nayland Golf Club

Allan Sharrocks (Colchester), Colchester MOS Captain, Stoke by Nayland MOS Captain, Trevor Warren (Stoke by Nayland).Henry Rowntree (c 1900).

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toke by Nayland’s Mail on Sunday, Classic team went into their first-round match against Colchester GC full of confidence. The match was played in cold, windy conditions on the Gainsborough Course.

Stoke by Nayland were hoping to emulate their 2015 success when they went through to Round 7 before losing a tight match, away from home, against Thorpe Hall.

Team Captain Marcus Harden had picked a team to try to match the strength of the Colchester single figure golfers, and it took a playoff to separate the two clubs.

First out for Stoke was Ian McKay, who was evenly matched against his Colchester opponent, off 6 and 5 handicaps respectively. The matches are played off a full difference in handicaps in this

competition.

The match finished with the Stoke player one down. The overall match was then levelled when Mark Chaplin, making his debut, won 2 up. A loss

by Dave Holland then gave the impetus back to Colchester but a half point by Ian Benson, and a very good win by Stoke by Nayland’s fifth player, Trevor Warren, meant it was 2 ½ - 2 ½ draw.

In this competition the designated fifth named players in the team go back to the first tee for a sudden-death handicap competition.

Unfortunately, Trevor was not able to match the par of the Colchester player, Allen Sharrocks, on the first hole and the match was a victory for Stoke’s near neighbours.

A disappointing end to the day for Stoke by Nayland but a well deserved win for Colchester.

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Clacton Golf Club Seniors AGM

Photo shows L-R Clacton Golf Club’s 2015 Senior Captain Joe Middleton presenting 2016 Captain Tony Burnside with his trophies won in the 2015 season.

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lacton-on-Sea Golf Club’s Seniors Section held its AGM. The wind was blowing at 75 mph and the Clacton Links were hostile, however at 8.30 am, 70 brave Clacton Golf Club Seniors played in the nine hole Stableford that started the Seniors AGM day, Winning this very unpleasant mornings golf was Clacton’s “Sportsman of the Year,” Mr John Stuck with 24 Stableford points. Following the golf and a hot shower came breakfast, a full English breakfast with toast and coffee, what a way to start an AGM. Seniors Captain Joe Middleton welcomed over 80 members to the AGM and announced that the meeting would begin with the presentation of trophies to all the 2015 event winners. Following the presentations it was time for business. The Captain called the meeting to order to remember the members who have departed to the great golf club in the sky, we remembered Alan Wiggins MBE and Peter Reading, both long time and much respected members of the Clacton Club. Hon Secretary Don Dunham read the minutes and then gave his report. Treasure Bob Seggie reported that the seniors had had another successful year; he then

outlined where the money came from and where it went. Captain Joe Middleton then made his report on the past year, he thanked the 144 seniors who had taken part in 68 competitions during his year as Captain and for all the support he had received from all sections of the club, during his very enjoyable year as Captain, he was also pleased to announce that his charity had raised £3350 during the year. It was then time to elect the committee for 2016.Vice-Captain John Kemp, Hon Secretary Don Dunham, Treasurer Bob Seggie, along with Ray Fage, John Willson and Rick Hale as committee members, past Captain Joe Middleton will serve as Imitate Past Captain. It was then time to present 2016 Captain Tony Burnside with his Captains Jacket, Tie and Tankard, Captain Tony Burnside then thanked 2015 Captain Joe Middleton and all the members for a most enjoyable year in 2015 as their Vice Captain and stated that he is really looking forward to a most enjoyable 2016. Captain Tony Burnside then announced that he was pleased to close the meeting and invited all members to join him for a drink.

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George Shines in Medal

Clacton-on-Sea Golf Clubs Junior February Medal winners,Wilf Elliott, Junior Captain Josh Bethell and George Fuller.

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lacton-on-Sea Golf Club’s Junior section played their “February Medal” on Saturday morning. George Fuller did well in testing conditions to return a winning score of 104-3668 in second place was Junior Captain Josh Bethell with 77-8-69 and in third place was Wilf Elliott with 81-11-70. With summer coming, the juniors section is looking for any boys and girls who might like to play golf to join them on Saturday mornings at 9am.

Clacton-on-Sea Golf Club’s Seniors turned out on a damp Monday morning to play in the annual 3 Club`s and a putter competition. The

winner was Ray Crossfield with 42 Stableford points, in Second place was the club`s News Reporter Derek Woodrow with 41 points on countback from in third-place Alfie Smith also with 41 points on countback from in fourth place also with 41 points Malcolm Taylor.

Clacton’s Golfing Ladies played their February Hi-Low pair’s Stableford on Tuesday morning; the winners were Chris Crossfield and Shelia Coleman with 60 Stableford points, in second place were Lorna Forder and Eve Bracci with 58 points and in third place were Denise Pink and Pat Gilbert with 46 points.

Clacton’s Pheasant Pluckers

Clacton Golf Club’s Pheasant Pluckers and 2015 Captain Terry McTear presenting a cheque for £2333.00 to Judith Anderson who is the East Anglia Regional fund raiser for Teenage Cancer Trust.

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lacton-on-Sea Golf Club’s “Pheasant Pluckers Golf Society,” are at it again, having had another successful year in 2015.

Captain Terry McTear was pleased to welcome Ms Judith Anderson to the Clacton Club. Ms Judith Anderson is the East Anglia Regional fund-raiser for “The Teenage Cancer Trust,” Captain McTear explained the money was raised during his year as Captain, and he was pleased to hand over a cheque for £2333.00 to his chosen

charity.

Ms Anderson thanked “The Pheasants” and after outlining the important work done by the trust, assured the Pheasants that the money would be put to very good use.

The Pheasant Pluckers meet every Wednesday through the summer months and have been doing so for the last 25 years - they will be starting their season again on 30th March with Alf Smith, sitting to the left of Judith Anderson as their Captain for 2016.

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Left to right: Roger O'Brien-Hill, Chris Williams, Andy Dodds and Derek King.

Hat-Trick for Chris Williams

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trophy being presented by Andy Dodds, who launched the competition 20 years ago before the club had an official seniors section.

In recent times, women have also been part of the day, with recent ladies captain Sheila Walter winning the section with 40 points, followed by current captain Sally Cade 36, and Sue Lockwood 33.

Nearest pin prizes: Ladies, Angela Chapman.

Men, Steve Street and Brian Joy. Mixed, Lee Prentice, Bill Havers and Di Cunningham.

hris Williams has completed a hat-trick of wins in the popular Andy Platter competition staged for seniors at Newton Green Golf Club.

Three years running the paramedic pot hunter has led the field home in the Stableford competition, and this year he completed the task on temporary greens, with the course covered in frost at the start of the day.

His 39 points saw him lead home Roger O'Brien-Hill 37 and Derek King 36, with the

Ian Poulter New Ambassador for National Golf Month in May

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an Poulter is the latest golfing legend to support National Golf Month, the initiative to get 100,000 people playing golf this year.

National Golf Month, which takes place this May, also enjoys the backing of fellow golf stars, Paul McGinley, Charley Hull and Melissa Reid as well as TV presenters Naga Munchetty and Georgie Bingham.

Poulter said ‘I’m fully behind the great initiative that is National Golf Month. The more people we can get out playing, the better, and hopefully this will help people realise that it’s a fun, healthy and sociable thing to do!’

Each ambassador is dedicated to raising the profile of golf as a fun activity for all the family although this year’s focus is on getting more women, young people and lapsed golfers into the sport.

Doug Poole, National Golf Month’s Project Director, said, “It’s an honour that someone of Ian’s stature is joining our list of ambassadors. We want to engage as many people as possible with

this initiative, Ian’s help will certainly raise awareness of golf and inspire everyone to give golf a go.”

National Golf Month is widely supported by golfing organisations, brands, golf clubs and driving ranges offering deals and experiences that fall into the following areas which have been specially tailored to get ladies, children and lapsed golfers back on the course For more information visit www.nationalgolfmonth.com

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All Change for the Ladies at Bentley Golf Club

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he Ladies at Bentley Golf Club are now enjoying the facilities of a totally refurbished Changing Room. Whilst the previous facilities served the club well it was acknowledged that they did not match up to the Golf Course that continues to receive positive feedback from Members and Visitors. Mark Gallop Club Secretary said that the Ladies were an important section within the Club, and the time was right to undergo the refurbishment. A small working party from the Ladies Section got the plans underway and Project Managed the refurbishment from start to finish. The Ladies organised fund-raising

events, and some gave personal donations to enable the room to have the extra Wow Factor.

The new look brings smart new additional Holdall and Golf Lockers for the lady members whilst also ensuring that lady visitors were equally provided for, their lockers form a focal point of the room. The Club invited Joan Southgate, Lady Captain to cut the ribbon at the Opening Ceremony. Joan said the newly decorated Changing Room is a real step forward in the development of Bentley Golf Club as a whole and will be enjoyed by Members and Visitors alike.

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

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

COULD YOUR EQUIPMENT BE CAUSING YOU ISSUES? PART 1 – THE PUTTER

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very Golfer does not need a Driver in the bag, a 3 Iron or a Lob Wedge, but they do need a Putter, as it’s the most used club in the bag! The question is this; How many of you have bought a Putter off the rack? If the answer is ‘YES’, then I hope the rest of this article will help you.

When you buy a Putter, it’s probably the feel and the look of it that makes you buy it, especially when you hole a few putts on the putting green or on the flat surface in the shop! You feel great that you have a new friend to make the difference on the greens. Then the friend becomes your enemy and gets left in a garage, a shed or goes on ebay. The reason for this is, you didn’t realise you needed to consider the following points when getting the right friend to help you on the greens; Style of head and hosel (Mallet or Blade) Face Balanced, Slight Hang, Mid Hang, Full Hang.

Weight - The weight of the head and club feeling heavy or light for you.

Loft and Lie – Angle of the Clubface and the lie angle of the shaft.

Shaft - Length and also the flex and weight.

Grip - The varying grips available are endless to suit your needs.

Why are the above points important? They are important, because it can make the difference between putting consistently or poorly. When you buy a Driver, you would consider ie style and weight, loft and lie, shaft and grip, so why not consider all those points for the Putter! We don’t because people say ‘It’s only a putter’.

I am now offering a service to golfers’ in helping you to determine with computer analysis and custom fitting in helping you get the correct Putter.

I use Zenio to see the differences on screen to see how you open and close the Putter face, rhythm and impact, a changeable putter for loft, lie and length, also using different shafts and grips to build the correct putter for you.

If you would like to improve your putting, then please contact me as I believe in a total strategy to putting, which includes technique, green reading and custom fitting Putter’s.

Group Seminar Dates and each session is £45 with food to finish the session; Good Friday 25th March - Putting @ The Essex G&CC from 9-30am till 1pm Easter Monday 28th March - Short Game @ The Essex G&CC from 9-30am till 1pm PUTTING TOURNAMENT This will take place on Easter Saturday from 10am till 2pm and the cost will be £10.

Winner will receive a free membership on The Zen Green Stage for a year!

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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: 72cm junior bag with 11 assorted clubs Redbridge - £20.00. 80cm junior bag with stand Redbridge - £10.00. T: 02085 503 501.

Email: peter1richardson@ntlworld.com

FOR SALE: Powakaddy remote golf trolley with charger and battery average condition, with sit on seat Thundersley - £175.00. Tel: 07759 892 819.

Email: louisebrianhunt@hotmail.com

FOR SALE: SIX PING G30 IRONS. 6,7,8,9,pw.sw. Steel regular shafts, regular length and lie. Immaculate clubs like new. - Leigh on Sea. - £325.00 ono.

T: 07446 112 930. Email: fleetweld@hotmail.com

FOR SALE: Taylormade R11 gents driver 10.5.

Adjustable loft, face angle and centre of gravity.

Excellent condition. - Brentwood - £40.00.

Tel: 01277231359 Email: arturo4312@gmail.com

FOR SALE: Golf Balls TITLEIST and NIKE in box of 10. Anything you need for your golf at the price you like to pay. - Southend-on-Sea - £4.00.

Tel: 01702 600 454. Email: enrico.bedini@talktalk.net

FOR SALE: Set of Left Handed Ping G20 irons Black dot 3 to Wedge, Utility Wedge & Sand Wedge. Steel Shafts VGC - Great Wakering - £315.00. Set of Left Handed Mizuno Irons, Steel shafts and New Grips. 2,3,4 MP Hi Fli Irons. 5 to Wedge MP57 Irons Good condition. - Great Wakering - £195.00.

Tel: 07751 126 694.

Email: george.timms1568@btinternet.com

FOR SALE: Ladies Yonex Cyberstar, Driver/3 wood/5 wood/6 wood plus Irons 5-SW. All been re-gripped Basildon - £100.00 ono. Tel: 07793 197 478.

Email: helentompkins777@hotmail.com FOR SALE: Puma AMP Cell Fusion golf shoes (beet red-white) – size 8.5, vgc, only worn once Leigh-on-Sea, Essex - £35.00. Tel: 0797 1937 475.

Email: PThompson@castlepoint.gov.uk

FOR SALE: Driver - Cobra S9-1 F speed 10.5 degree mens Aldila DVS - HL shaft 55 g mid kick. Grip 9/10, Shaft 10/10, Head 8/10 Head cover 10/10. - Hainault £45.00. Driver - Cobra 400SZ, 10.5 Aldila 60g shaft mens, grip 6/10, shaft 8/10, head 6/10 - Hainault £30.00. Taylor Made 3 Wood V Steel, mens regular graphite shaft, Grip 8/10, Shaft 8/10, Head 6/10 Hainault - £35.00. Taylor Made 5 wood V steel, mens regular graphite shaft, Grip 8/10, Shaft 8/10, Head 6/10 Hainault - £35.00. Cleveland wedge 60 degree low bounce, Tour action 900 steel shaft. - Hainault - £25.00.

Taylor Made rescue wood, Rescue mid 22 degree, Ladies L flex graphite shaft, Grip 8/10, shaft 7/10 head 6/10 Hainault - £30.00. Tel: 07946 381 831.

Email: fineganjulie@aol.com

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

Email: Nsodell57@gmail.com FOR SALE: Senior Men’s Driver Benross Gold 12 degrees loft offset good condition - Woodford Green £50.00. Tel: 0208 505 0623.

Email: email@afine.plus.com FOR SALE: Mizuno mp h5 irons 4-pw. Practically brand new with KBS STIFF shafts. - Hornchurch £500.00 ono. Tel: 07450 485 326.

Email: alex_brawn@yahoo.com

FOR SALE: Big Bertha Irons, with Graphite Shafts S/W to 4 Iron– £80.00. Tel: 01268 523 274.

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

Tel: 07771 621 621. Email: i.finer@btinternet.com FOR SALE: Stewart Z3 Push Trolley Metallic Blue with Umbrella Holder and Trolley Bag VGC - Epping Essex £50.00. Tel: 01992 576 060 Epping.

Email: robert.g.dawson@btinternet.com

FOR SALE: Titleist FD 910 3 Wood adjustable, regular shaft, hardly used - Frinton on Sea - £60.00. Titleist adjustable 910 rescue wood 19 degree - Frinton on Sea - £40.00. Taylormade mini driver 12 degree Brand new, never used - Frinton on Sea - £90.00. Ping G10 3 wood draw bias, 5 wood and rescue wood 21 degree . All 3 will separate - Frinton on Sea - £75.00. Taylormade RBZ 3 wood Hardly used - Frinton on Sea - £50.00. King Cobra F/speed Hardly used - Frinton on Sea - £40.00.

Titleist 910 H adjustable rescue wood 19 degree Frinton on Sea - £40.00. Tel: 01255 676 172.

Email: patricia.hodge@sky.com

- 53 -

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

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

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

Order now on online at www.essexgolfer.com - 54 -

SWING TH HROUG GH

SP PRIING G WITH TH HESE STUNNING STUNNIING PA ACKAG ACKAGES GES PA AC CKAG GE ONE

PA AC CKAG GE TWO O

PA AC CKAG GE THREE

Coffffee & FFullll B C Breakf e kfast 18 Holes of Golf G Pint of Draught Lag ger or Bitter

Cofffee C f & Bacon B Roll R ll Unlimited Golf Ham, Egg, Chips & Pint

Cofffee C f & Bacon B Roll R ll Unlimited Golf Tw wo Course Meal

Kings £2 24.50* Jubilee £1 15.50*

Kings £27.50* Jubilee £18.00*

Kings £32.50* Jubilee £23.00*

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01621 82695 59/ 82699 98

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