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Contents
Quick Links
CLOTHING
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TRAVEL
SEE- PAGE 47
EQUIPMENT
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SIMPLY THE
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We look back at the wonderful world of Seve Ballesteros. PLUS:
GOLF IN SEVE COUNTRY - Northern Spain Destination Guide.
A NEW CHAPTER FOR SCOTLAND’S
STORIED GOLF COASTLINE
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PLUS . . . 7 St Georges Yard, Castle Street, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7LW Editor: Mike Stafford
23 PAUL SEVERN
34 A RANGE OF CHANGE
24 SAVING CLEEVE HILL
40 SPICE UP YOUR WEDGES
Through the lens of one of the world’s greatest golf photographers
How an Old Tom Morris course was saved from closure.
+44 (0) 7846 147228 info@exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk Travel & Commercial: Maddy Pearce
31 MARK STEWART
+44 (0) 07877 066387 maddypearce@yourteamdigital.com
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The man who created an idea in a garden shed which became the world’s most exclusive golf trolley.
Meet the UK based start-up who are changing golf for the better.
How to ‘spice up your wedge game’ with former European Open Champion Andrew Murray.
44 SIMON DYSON
How the power of the mind is your key to lower scores and playing better golf.
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LIGHT & COOL
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WHERE TO PLAY ON YOUR
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Bill Hill CEO of the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity at St Mary’s Lighthouse in Whitley Bay, near Newcastle. 4
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GOLFING FOR THE
GREATER CAUSE
The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity has been delivering Charitable Welfare and Support to the Construction Community since 1956. Golf features heavily in their event fundraising and supporting colleagues from the trade. We caught up with BILL HILL from the charity to find out more about them, how Covid has affected the organisation and what their plans are for this year.
Tell us about your charity?
How does your charity help?
Our mission statement is this: No construction worker or their family should be alone in a crisis.
We deliver three key services. We provide a 24/7 Construction Industry Helpline. We also give emergency financial aid to construction families facing poverty.
Every working day in the UK and Ireland, two construction workers take their own lives and we exist to do all we can to improve the health and well being of construction workers. The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity has been delivering charitable welfare and support to the Construction Community since 1956. We are the only charity 100% dedicated to the emotional, physical and financial well being of construction workers and their families in the UK and Ireland. It was conceived by a small group of senior executives at an Expo just outside Newcastle-upon-Tyne, near St Mary’s Lighthouse in Whitley Bay. It was set up to be a beacon of hope for construction workers and their families.
Why do you exist? Although construction can be rewarding, it can also be dangerous. Back in 1956, we lost over 200 construction workers every year to on-site fatalities.
This service is backed up by our Construction Industry Helpline APP. This APP complements our telephone helpline and gives a self help tool packed full of education and coping strategies on a vast array of wellbeing subjects. We deliver education and training courses on topics ranging from building resilience and managing stress to Mental Health First Aid training and financial management. Everything we do is free.
How does golf feature in you’re fund raising? In just about every golf club car park on a Friday afternoon you will see several liveried vans with a whole host of construction trades advertised from glaziers to scaffolders and civil engineers to architects. Construction loves golf. We run over 20 golf days a year and over 3000 golfers play in the name of our charity.
The industry has become much safer but there are still 30 to 40 fatalities on our sites every year and over 2,000 serious injuries.
The events range from small gatherings to big national events with over 30 four ball teams.
It is the industry with the highest occupational cancer rates and 20 % of all recorded work absences are due to stress, anxiety and depression. Construction is the No 1 industry for suicide.
We raise over £120,000 a year for the charity through golf and countless deals have been done on the golf course.
What is a Golf Community Interest Company? Many larger construction companies want to have a client golf day. The responsibility of organising it often falls on some poor unsuspecting person who does not necessarily know a lot about golf. So they outsource to an events company. This is where the Lighthouse Golf Club CIC comes in. It is a professional golf events company. From selecting venues, getting great rates, chasing down and invoicing teams, the CIC will be managing the day, do the scoring, organise the prize giving and sponsorship. They will even deliver silent auctions and raffles if fundraising is key. All profits of running the day will not go to the shareholders of a private events company. It will all be donated back to our charity.
What is your message to construction companies? Spread the word, if your work force does not know about us we cannot help them.
W W W. L I G H T H O U S E G O L F C LU B .C O M ISSUE 16
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NEWS
Director of European Golf Concierge, Laura McDonald with clients at an event held at Stoke Park.
Positive moves forward for corporate golf events T he pandemic has had a devastating effect on the service industry but it’s hats off to a business which has used down time during the lockdowns to create a new name and website.
European Golf Concierge is the new name now following a full rebrand and m akeover. Its countless admirers in the corporate golf events industry will be more used to European Golf Challenge, as it used to be called.
a client golf day, a client golf trip overseas or them purchasing their new clubs. ‘Concierge’ is what we do.”
The past few years have seen massive change in all industries as well as the UK facing its biggest crisis since World War II in COVID-19.
Laura added: “Like many businesses we have grown and evolved over the last few years as well as reacting to the changing needs of our clients.
The service was started 11 years ago by Director Laura McDonald, specialising in a Beat the Female Pro service for corporate and charity events.
“The Beat the Pro service offered initially is now just one of many services. Our main product is event creation and management and we give our clients assistance and guidance in all areas this covers.
Said Laura: “We felt that last year gave us the perfect time to start the restructure because the ‘challenge’ part of the original name doesn’t fit where the company is now.
“As well as the growth of the business and our client base, we have seen changes in the industry and the pandemic has played huge part in everyone’s life in terms of change and adjustment.
“We have become accustomed to working with the some of the leading global brands and companies such as Nedbank, Adidas, Sony as-well as celebrities and even royalty.
“We are excited by our new launch at a time when everybody is overjoyed at being able to get back out on the course to play golf.
“We pride ourselves on our personal approach and relationships with our clients and being able to cater for all their golfing requirements . . . whether that is 6
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“There has been a surge of event bookings with a positive vibe and atmosphere. Let’s face it, we are all now more than ready to get our lives back to normal and start socialising.”
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NEWS
EXCLUSIVE EVENTS AT EXCLUSIVE VENUES We find and book the very best venues for our corporate golf days and we are trusted by national and international brands . . . As your dedicated venue experts, we ensure you get the best value for your budget.
CREATE A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR GUESTS BRING A PRO GOLFER TO YOUR EVENT SIMON DYSON
Simon played on the European Tour from 2001 to 2017, having played on the Asian Tour in 2000 and winning the Order of Merit. He had six wins on the European Tour, including the KLM Open three times. After struggling with a wrist injury he retired from competitive golf in early 2019. Involve Simon in your golf event with a beat the pro hole or one of his educational instruction clinics and add a valuable experience for your guests.
BRINGING A MODERN & UNIQUE APPROACH TO GOLF EVENTS MAKE YOUR EVENT STAND OUT FROM THE REST VISIT NEW WEBSITE ISSUE 16
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IF YOU’RE STRUGGLING, HELP IS HERE!
The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity is the only charity dedicated to providing professional support for construction workers and their families struggling with Emotional, Physical or Financial issues.
We give information, advice and guidance and if required telephone counselling on:
EMOTIONAL WELLBEING COVERING
+
PHYSICAL WELLBEING COVERING
+
FINANCIAL WELLBEING COVERING
STRESS
CANCER & DIABETES SUPPORT
EMERGENCY FINANCIAL AID
ANXIETY
ACHES AND PAINS
BENEFIT ENTITLEMENT
DEPRESSION
NUTRITION
BUDGETING
ANGER MANAGEMENT
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
DEBT MANAGEMENT
BUILDING RESILIENCE
SLEEPING PROBLEMS
TAX, CIC AND LEGAL ADVICE
SUICIDAL THOUGHTS
ALCOHOL AND DRUG ADDICTION
RETIREMENT PLANNING
We also provide FREE Online interactive training sessions on Financial Management, Building Resiliance, Managing Stress,Work Life Balance, Mindfulness, Meditation and Mental Health Awareness. Our support is
DOWNLOAD OUR
HELPLINE APP TODAY or search Construction Industry helpline on your app store.
FREE
to anyone working In construction, available 24/7 and completely confidential.
For more information visit www.constructionindustryhelpline.com Our services are FREE and funded by companies in our industry for the people in our industry. Please be aware that even though your company may be a valued supporter, your information remains confidential to our charity. UK Charity Registration No 1149488 | ROI Charity Registration No 20200334 | Company Registration No 08244118
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pure magic DIAMOND EXPERT DIRK ODENDAAL CREATES STUNNING JEWELLERY THAT WILL LITERALLY LAST FOREVER
Engage Dirk Odendaal in conversation about his favourite subject – diamonds – and his
eyes literally begin to sparkle. To say he is passionate about them is an understatement. “There is something wonderfully magical about them,” says the London based jeweller. “Women are hypnotised by them. They could look at them all day and watch them sparkle and shimmer,” he says with relish. It is this passion he is keen to share with discerning clients who know exactly what they want, but who do not wish to pay the 400 per cent mark-up put on precious stones by some of the world’s leading jewellery stores. “Buying a diamond is an exciting event and choosing it is all part of my unique bespoke service,” says Dirk. “But why should you have to pay so much more when you go to a leading Bond Street jeweller?” Dirk’s unique selling point is being able to provide ‘more stone for your money’ He has none of the overheads that any major retailer would charge. Dirk can also authenticate all his gems, and he makes a point of buying diamonds from regions that are entirely rebel, child labour or war free. Dirk seeks out rough diamonds straight from their source in their roughest form, using his highlydeveloped skills to select the most perfect specimens, which, when they are cut and polished will produce stunning stones. Selling the stones cut & polished, Dirk assists in creating bespoke settings for them in a ring, necklace, bracelet and earrings. Dirk meets many potential purchasers in their private clubs, in their own homes where the atmosphere is relaxed and enjoyable, or even in their offices. He even travels abroad to fulfil his client’s needs and to deliver that personal attention that is much needed. Dirk works with his bespoke clients to create exactly what they want, be it a small diamond ring of less than one carat or a special, spectacular diamond that he will look for on a client’s behalf. In fact he becomes their own private diamond connoisseur. One of the reasons that diamonds are the subject of such fascination and awe, Dirk believes, is their history. “Each diamond is millions of years old,” he says. Made deep in the earth’s core. “It’s the most wonderful token of love and romance,” says Dirk. And it is a tradition he is more than happy to keep alive. He tells enthusiastically of a client who contacted him recently wanting an engagement ring for his wife. “They had been married for around 20 years and had two daughters, but when they were got engaged they had very little money. Now he is a successful lawyer. He wanted to give her something to cherish.” Dirk believes the service he offers is unique and even enhances the excitement of selecting these unique gems. “Actually choosing a diamond yourself and discussing how it should be set is a really magical experience,” says Dirk, adding: “And it’s one that gives me great pleasure to share.”
the diamonds that your wife wears is a reflection on you as her husband. 07799771379 ISSUE 16
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LIGHTHOUSE EVENTS 2021
THIS YEAR’S GOLF EVENTS
GOLF • FUNDRAISING • NETWORKING • FUN ighthouse Construction L Industry Charity South Region Pro-Am 23rd June, 2021 at Foxhills Country Club, Surrey. SPONSORED BY
VIEW EVENT DETAILS
Centurion Golf club Invitational 20th July, 2021 at Centurion Golf Club, Hertfordshire VIEW EVENT DETAILS
31st August - The Berkshire, Ascot, South East England. VIEW EVENT DETAILS
Lighthouse Construction Charity vs Construct Council Ryder Cup 17th September - Hanbury Manor, Hertfordshire. VIEW EVENT DETAILS
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The new rooftop with one of golf’s greatest and most iconic views.
A NEW CHAPTER FOR SCOTLAND’S
STORIED GOLF COASTLINE
I
t’s a long drive but St Andrews has become Nashville’s kind of town. A golf loving real estate development company from the American city has created something so special it will, from this summer, be unveiled as one of the most iconic views in world sport.
Three Scottish golf properties - Rusacks St Andrews, the Marine Hotel in Troon and the Marine North Berwick - were all bought by Adventurous Journeys Capital Partners last year. When they re-open this summer after extensive renovations, two of the three properties will form AJ Capital’s new Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts, with Marine Troon joining next year. At Rusacks, the views from a vast rooftop bar and restaurant constructed on top of an underground 12
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car park and taking in the first and 18th holes of the Old Course plus West Sands Beach will be jaw dropping. Each Marine & Lawn property will offer a luxurious base, weaving the legends of centuries of golf history into design details throughout each hotel. “We’re excited to be providing travellers with distinct, once-in-a-lifetime experiences along the storied coasts of Scotland,” said Ben Weprin, AJ Capital’s Founder and CEO. “Our team has long been enamoured with the rugged beauty of the region and the rich history of Scottish golf and these properties will sing in celebration of these distinguished traditions. “From avid golfers and bucket list travellers to ISSUE 16
WWW.MARINEANDLAWN.COM
A touch of class at the Rusacks: A new ‘Rusacks King’ (left), The stylish hotel lobby (bottom left), a touch of tradition at the front desk (above) and traditional style in the bathroom (below).
those looking for a leisurely long weekend, our properties will offer a welcome respite for all.” AJ Capital has partnered with restaurant developer, White Rabbit Projects to launch and run all food and beverage outlets at Rusacks and Marine North Berwick. Each hotel will offer distinct destination dining options, providing epicurean experiences suited for locals and guests alike. White Rabbit Projects is behind some of the most exciting hospitality concepts in the U.K. including Kricket, Lina Stores and Island Poké. With input from local suppliers throughout Scotland, the range of culinary offerings will encompass restaurant, bar and café concepts. ISSUE 16
“We’re committed to creating spaces worthy of the destinations they call home,” said Phillip Allen, AJ Capital’s Chief Development Officer, International Markets. “Each Marine & Lawn property will distinctly balance past with present, providing a level of excellence in service as distinguished as the prestigious golf courses synonymous with the region.” Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts will join AJ Capital Partners’ growing portfolio of hotels throughout the United Kingdom. AJ Capital additionally owns and operates the Randolph Hotel in Oxford, England and the Cambridge Hotel in Cambridge, England, both of which will relaunch as part of Graduate Hotels in summer 2021. E XCLUSIVEG OLFANDTR AVEL .CO.UK
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Rusacks St Andrews will offer 123 guest rooms, as well as a range of culinary offerings, including a traditional Scottish pub and the rooftop bar and restaurant overlooking the 1st and 18th holes of the Old Course at St Andrews and the Fife Coast. The renovated property includes a 42,000 square foot expansion which will house additional guest rooms and the rooftop concept. Accommodation rates start from £219.00 per room including Full Scottish breakfast and VAT. FIND OUT MORE
With 89 guest rooms, the hotel will offer two unique food and beverage concepts, expansive meeting and event spaces and a new fitness and leisure centre with an indoor pool, squash court, sauna and steam facilities. The hotel will provide unobstructed views of the 1st and 18th fairways of Royal Troon's Old Course, which has played host to nine Open Championships. Opening in 2021 and joining the Marine & Lawn collection in 2022 the Marine Troon on the Ayrshire Coast. FIND OUT MORE
Marine North Berwick will offer 84 guest rooms, two unique food and beverage concepts and 6,000 square feet of flexible event spaces. The hotel will also offer a spa, pool and fitness centre. As part of a comprehensive interior and exterior renovation, the ‘Grand Old Lady’ will be restored to her former glory as a luxury landmark on ‘Scotland’s Golf Coast.’ The hotel overlooks the historic West Links course of North Berwick GC. Starting rates begin at £189.00 per room per night including Full Scottish breakfast. FIND OUT MORE
For more information on Marine & Lawn visit - WWW.MARINEANDLAWN.COM 14
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FEATURE
NEW-LOOK SOUTH COURSE SET TO BE UNVEILED AT
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A
favourite among European Tour professionals, Quinta do Lago’s muchloved South Course will unveil a fresh new look later this year after being given a €7m upgrade to elevate the playing experience and further enhance the Portuguese’s resort’s environmental credentials. The popular Algarve layout – an eight-time host of the Portuguese Open – will reopen this autumn following a major overhaul, the centrepiece of a recent multi-million euro golf investment being undertaken by Europe’s premier luxury golf and lifestyle resort. Regularly ranked among the continent’s top 100 golf courses, the par-72 South Course is regarded as one of Portugal’s premier golfing venues and the improvements made are set to enhance its reputation even further. As part of the investment, all of the South Course’s fairways, bunkers, tees and green surrounds have been given an upgrade, with subtle changes also being made to a number of holes to enhance the golfing experience. Carried out with sustainable goals in mind and with Quinta do Lago golf course superintendent Mark Tupling and his team working with the Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) Foundation, a state-of-the-art irrigation system is also being installed – maximising efficiency and reducing the use of non-renewable resources – while a planting scheme of native species has been adopted to increase biodiversity. >>>>>
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FEATURE
The picturesque Ria Formosa Natural Park Away from the South Course, Quinta do Lago’s other two 18-hole championship courses – the North Course and Laranjal – have also undergone significant maintenance improvement programmes in the last year, while the resort has also invested in a new fleet of state-of-the-art electric golf buggies and reopened its main golf clubhouse following extensive refurbishment. Set amongst 2,000 acres of the picturesque Ria Formosa Natural Park and just a 15-minute drive from Faro airport, Quinta do Lago has been at the forefront of Europe’s elite golf, sports and family destinations for nearly five decades. Featuring a combination of world-class golf and lifestyle facilities, it has continually set the benchmark for the continent’s premier modern golf destinations, and the resort is leading the way again as golfers and their families prepare to return postCovid-19, with the long-term focus on sustainability, mental wellbeing and the environment. Following an extended period of lockdowns, spending time outdoors and living a healthy lifestyle in an eco-friendly environment has never been more important to people, and the top Portuguese resort has laid the foundations for life after the pandemic by promoting a multi-tiered plan with the emphasis on outdoor living and incorporating three key principles: to foster nature, conserve resources and support the community. Nestling in the heart of the Ria Formosa, Quinta do Lago has always been passionate about the environment – only nine per cent of the resort has been built on with the rest devoted to golf, water and lakes and green spaces. But, aware of the need to move with the times, 18
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the resort has adopted an enhanced approach to conservation across all its sectors including at the world-class sports hub The Campus, its array of bars and restaurants, its hotel and general resort services. Having created its own farm in 2019 to provide its restaurants with homegrown organic produce, Quinta do Lago now places information boards on the golf courses and nearby nature trails advising people of the wildlife living nearby, while ‘bug hotels’ for insects – helping to control garden pests so reducing the use of insecticides – increasing the number of bird-nesting boxes and constructing bee houses; and removing single-use plastics at its restaurants are among the other initiatives to be introduced to help conserve resources. Quinta do Lago boasts a combination of world-class golf and lifestyle facilities including three 18-hole championship golf courses and The Campus, a world-class sports hub designed for professionals and amateurs alike to keep fit. Complementing the sports and leisure amenities is a choice of 12 first-class bars and restaurants that deliver a range of delicious world cuisines, including the acclaimed Bovino Steakhouse and Dano’s Sports Bar & Restaurant, and accommodation at the recently-acquired boutique The Magnolia Hotel.
FIND OUT MORE CLICK HERE
Insects also stay in style at the ‘Bug Hotel’
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FEATURE
SIMPLY THE
BEST AND BETTER THAN ALL THE REST
This year brings the tenth anniversary of the death of Seve Ballesteros. Tim Taylor talks to World Golf Hall of Fame administrator Ken Schofield, CBE, who ran the European Tour when the spectacular career of its greatest superstar was at its peak. Given Tiger Woods has experienced many troubled times outside the ropes, Seve Ballesteros and Arnold Palmer remain the all-time No 1 golfing heroes of their respective continents. Nobody has more reason to cherish the memories of Seve’s X-Factor charisma created by his swashbuckling golf and dashing good looks as Ken Schofield, who became Executive Director of the PGA European Tour in 1975, when there were 17 Order of Merit events with total purses amounting to £427,917. Such was the vision, energy and determination of this sports loving former bank manager, he retired in 2004 with 96 events on the main tour, Challenge Tour and the Seniors Tour offering £85,339,019 in prize money. As Schofield points out, a lot of the credit was down to Ballesteros. “The biggest compliment that those of us involved in European golf can pay Seve is that he became – and remains – Europe’s Arnold Palmer,” said Schofield. “The impact Seve had was equal to the impact Arnold had on American golf. “Seve ignited the scene on our tour. He drew crowds to tournaments. He pushed up TV ratings. He attracted hundreds of thousands of column inches in newspapers.”
Severiano Ballesteros at the Royal Dublin Golf Club, during the Irish Open, 20th July 1986.
The flamboyant Spaniard died on May 7, 2011, following complications of a cancerous brain tumour at the age of 54. Palmer died from cardiovascular disease on September 25, 2016, living until he
(Photo by Simon Bruty/Getty Images)
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was 87. The winner of seven majors, Palmer was also bold and exciting; in his case as much Hollywood star as golfing legend. During my interview about Ballesteros with Schofield, I mentioned that when he won the last of his majors, The Open Championship at Lytham in 1988, my wife and myself watched the Saturday play on television at the home of a fellow club golfer and his wife, both good friends.
Only one European, Sir Nick Faldo, with six majors, has won more than Seve’s five. Faldo has gone on record as saying Ballesteros was “the greatest show on earth,” or, as Lee Westwood puts it: “Seve made European golf what it is today.” Schofield says: “To talk about Seve is a privilege, he was a golfing genius.”
Every time the impossibly handsome and swashbuckling Seve turned his torso, my friend’s wife squealed so increasingly loudly her husband eventually had to tell her to quieten down to protect our eardrums.
The seeds for his most meaningful legacy were sown in 1980 when Ballesteros became the first European to win the Masters. Something which tends to be overlooked is what happened as a far reaching result of the motivational effect this had on his fellow European players.
Schofield chucked as he said: “With his amazing skill and charisma Seve made golf glamorous and sexy and I would suspect that your friend’s wife was far from alone in shouting for Seve and squealing.”
That triumph at Augusta inspired an about turn in the direction of Ryder Cup supremacy because the mid and late 1980s were the years in which the event became a contest rather than a stroll in the park for the USA.
THE BIGGEST COMPLIMENT THAT THOSE OF US INVOLVED IN EUROPEAN GOLF CAN PAY SEVE IS THAT HE BECAME – AND REMAINS – EUROPE’S ARNOLD PALMER KEN SCHOFIELD
Seve competing in the World Match Play Championship at Wentworth Club, Virginia Water, Surrey, 1976. (Photo by Don Morley/ Getty Images)
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Landslide victories for America were the norm whether they were playing against Great Britain, which is how the Ryder Cup started in 1927, or GB & Ireland or even at first Europe when the geographical spread the team could be drawn from was finalised in time for 1979 and 1981. Leading up to 1983 at Palm Beach Gardens, America had won 11 times out of 12 and had tied the other match. Yet after going down by a single point in a fiercely fought contest, Europe did not lose again until 1991 and the
most recent history of the series currently places the golf shoe firmly on the other foot with nine wins out of the last 12 for Europe. The 1983 Ryder Cup was Tony Jacklin’s first as captain. Ballesteros was the star player and the main supporting cast in Florida was hardly shoddy. Nick Faldo, Bernhard Langer, Sandy Lyle and Ian Woosnam completed what became known as The Famous Five, who finished their main tour careers with 16 majors between them. E XCLUSIVEG OLFANDTR AVEL .CO.UK
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FEATURE Ballesteros set the tone in creating a fighting unit mentality with the flamboyant Spaniard encouraging an “us against them” attitude which became infectious. He made his teammates believe in themselves. He played Fuzzy Zoeller in the singles, rescuing a spectacular half at the 18th with what USA captain Jack Nicklaus described as “the finest shot I have ever seen.” The ball was lying on a steep upslope beneath the lip of a fairway bunker 245 yards from the green, having arrived there via a bunker. Incredibly, Ballesteros went for the green. Setting his sights on a high fade by aiming at the stem of the L-shaped green, he opened the clubface slightly and smashed the ball out of the bunker making perfect contact. It landed softly and finished within 18 feet of the flag. He chipped and putted from the fringe for a most unlikely half and although the USA won 14 ½ to 13 ½, it was that magic moment which had everyone talking. The Famous Five were all born within 12 months of each other in 1957 and 1958. When Seve won the 1980 Masters that gave the other four the inspiration they needed because until then the South African Gary Player had been the only non American to win at Augusta. Says Schofield: “What Seve showed and demonstrated was that the great Americans could be beaten at their citadel and that gave the others the belief their best golf could be good enough.” In the weeks before Ballesteros was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1999, Nicklaus said. “He invented shots around the green. You don’t find many big hitters like him with that kind of imagination and touch.”
Ballesteros was feisty. He was proud. He was charming. He made people watch . . . and he usually gave them something to remember. Schofield, who was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame himself in 2013 for his pioneering achievements as an administrator, treasures another magic moment. When Ballesteros won the Volvo PGA Championship at Wentworth in a play-off against Montgomerie in 1991, Schofield recalls a time he was out of position and weighing up his second shot at the first hole. “A small boy in the gallery was so nervous he was jingling coins in his pocket, which, of course, is something that should never happen on a golf course. Instead of remonstrating with the boy, Seve spotted him, smiled and said to the little feller ‘You nervous? Me too!” The extent of the celebration of the life of Ballesteros is uncertain because the pandemic has caused difficulties for those making arrangements. Among them is Paul Sutcliffe, the Content Marketing Manager at the R&A, working on behalf of The Seve Ballesteros Foundation which supports junior golf and raises money for scientific research to help the fight against brain cancer. Whatever else is possible, it is hard to imagine the bells of the church in Seve’s home town of Pedreña will not ring on May 7, the date of the tenth anniversary year of his death, just as they did every time their local boy made good won a tournament anywhere in the world. Even in a career shortened by chronic back trouble, that happened 93 times.
FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE LEGEND AND PLAY GOLF IN SEVE COUNTRY VIEW OUR GUIDE TO GOLF NORTHERN SPAIN CLICK HERE TO VIEW
Ballesteros on the 18th green during The Open Championship at the Royal Lytham and St Annes Golf Club, Lancashire, July 1979. Ballesteros won the tournament. 22
(Photo by Steve Powell/Getty Images)
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GOLF THROUGH THE LENS OF
PAUL SEVERN H
One of the world’s greatest golf photographers has launched an online store where golfers can now purchase one of his many stunning images of famous players and courses from his travels around the globe.
ere is your chance to own some of the exclusive images created by one of the world’s greatest golf photographers, Paul Severn. Paul is a renowned, professional golf photographer, with over 25 years experience covering players and working for sponsors on the European and US Tours. Devoted to the world of golf, Paul has for many years been producing dramatic images of world class players, major tournaments and capturing the atmosphere of the finest golf courses. Now, he is opening up is back catalogue of stunning imagery, including some exclusive limited edition work for golfers to purchase and enjoy from his new ecommerce website. Having travelled to every continent, on over 500 photographic assignments on the European Tour, his wealth of experience and talent has become renowned throughout the golfing industry. Using his knowledge of golf, Paul captures unique course images from both the golfers perspective and from the air, enabling him to cover the entire course and specific signature holes.
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SPECIAL LAUNCH OFFER
SAVE 15%
ON YOUR ORDER Paul’s work has earned recognition from some of the games greatest names including the likes of Justin Rose, Darren Clarke, Colin Montgomerie and Gary Player who commented: “Golf course designers count on talented professionals like Paul to capture what we set out to accomplish. His work is inspirational art”.
Visit the new Severn Golf Art website by following the link below. To benefit from your 15% discount simply use the code below at the checkout.
SEVERN15
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FEATURE
THE GREAT RESCUE OF
CLEEVE HILL GOLF CLUB
W
ould you like reasons to play Cleeve Hill, a golf club which, amazingly, nearly folded this year despite being situated in a spectacular part of the world so far out of left field, even Bryson DeChambeau could not hook there if he tried? Old Tom Morris, who shaped and cosseted the Old Course at St Andrews, plotted a quirky route for Cleeve Hill’s course across the highest part of the Cotswolds in the late 19th century. A couple of generations later Dr Alister MacKenzie, the creator of Augusta, added his influence to fairways and greens.
Most golfers’ favourite holes on the course are situated after the turn. The 13th, The Camp, is a blind tee shot and then over the hill to a green set within the protective banks of an iron age hill fort, genuine risk and reward. Holes 15 and 16 bring unusual back to back par 3’s, The Punchbowl and The Grip. Where else do you get that? The first is over a quarry, the second needs accuracy.
At 1,083 feet above sea level, there are chill-out views stretching 80 miles and taking in the Malvern Hills, the Black Mountains and seven counties Herefordshire, Breconshire, Radnorshire, Shropshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire.
There are few greater admirers of Cleeve Hill than 70-year-old Mungo Park, a golf historian living nearby, who is looking forward to semi-retirement this summer and more time to spend fighting his game at a course that he loves.
Inland undulating links are woven around quarries which once supplied many a building with that unmistakeable golden hue of Cotswold limestone and the place has serious history.
For a man who plays to a 25 handicap, Park has a thoroughbred bloodline. He is descended from three members of a Musselburgh golfing family, spread across two generations, who won a collective seven Opens starting with the first playing of the championship in 1860.
Before becoming a golf course, Cleeve Hill was the venue for the Cheltenham Gold Cup at a time when it was a three-mile flat race. Should this quiz question crop up, the first winner was Spectre in 1819 for a first prize of 100 guineas, around £9,000 in today’s money, 24
and today’s back nine provides excellent views of a racecourse long ago moved below the golf course to Prestbury Park.
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They were his great grandfather Willie Park senior, his great great uncle and namesake, Mungo Park, and his great uncle, Willie Park junior. ISSUE 16
FEATURE View from the clubhouse .
I DO NOT KNOW OF ANY OTHER COURSE THAT CAN LAY CLAIM TO HAVING BEEN INFLUENCED BY THE DESIGNERS OF BOTH THE OLD COURSE AND AUGUSTA MUNGO PARK, GOLF HISTORIAN The words ‘hidden’ and ‘gem’ collide to provide the ultimate cliché in golf circles, and in some cases its greatest con trick. Peter Alliss once told me he wished he had £1,000 for every golf club he had never seen which claimed he had described their course in that way! Yet most people I know had not heard of Cleeve Hill before I spotted a headline recently about two Gloucestershire businessmen, Nick Hovey and Sam Foyle, saving it from going under. They signed up for 125-year leases with Tewkesbury Borough Council and the Cleeve Common Trust. More of that later, although Hovey is on a roll. Readers of this parish will recall that in our pre-Christmas issue we revealed his Mashie club, the UK’s most successful multi choice golf society, has a record number of venues for 2021. Mashie are relocating their HQ to Cleeve Hill. To take in how much saving the course means to golfers who live in the surrounding area, let’s hear from Park. One of a team of rival bidders to take over the leases, he said: “Everybody who went into the bidding process did it with the same purpose. “Even though we did not win the bid, we are pleased that the council saw the merits of retaining golf on The Hill and were prepared, with the Trust to give somebody a lease for a good long time, so there would be a feeling of permanence, which was what we all wanted. We are delighted that this has been achieved. “Cleeve Hill is not at the stuffy end of golf. Nobody there ever makes you feel excluded and although it is a challenging course you do not have to be a low handicapper to play it. There is plenty of space, and it’s open to everyone and that’s exactly how golf should be. ISSUE 16
“There is certainly goodwill for Nick Hovey, Sam Foyle and their associates. There is an awful lot of support waiting for them if they get it right when they take over in April; we are fascinated by what lies ahead.”
Photo: Mungo Park
Understandably precise details of the original course construction are shrouded in the mists of time and there are few conclusive written records. Park however has researched the subject and added: “It seems the sequence of events started with Old Tom Morris being called in to decide where the holes should go, but it is likely that golf was played before that too. “The actual building of the course and the shaping of the greens was carried out in 1891 by the Malvern (The Worcestershire) club professional David ‘Deacon’ Brown. He had come originally from Musselburgh, where he also won the 1886 Open. “He is also renowned for coaching Queen Victoria at golf. Much later I gather MacKenzie was called in for some quite extensive reworking. I have not been able to establish whether that was to four fairways and greens or to five. E XCLUSIVEG OLFANDTR AVEL .CO.UK
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FEATURE
The clubhouse at Cleeve Hill Golf Club (above) and a course with a view overlooking Cheltenham (above right).
“I do not know of any other course that can lay claim to having been influenced by the designers of both the Old Course and Augusta. “Incidentally Alf Padgham, the assistant professional at Cleeve Hill, won the Open Championship at Hoylake in 1936. Lady Margaret Scott, the daughter of Lord Eldon, and a founder member of Cleeve Hill, won the first three Ladies’ Amateur Championships in 1893, 1894 and 1895.” There is more to Cleeve Hill than golf. Park used to run with Tewkesbury Running Club in the Cotswold Way Relay and he added: “It’s a brilliant place to have recreational facilities for the surrounding area and golf is included in that, but not exclusive to it. It’s a wonderful resource for local people whether you are a walker, a mountain biker or a horse rider . . . or a runner.” Hovey and Foyle created a new firm, Cotswold Hub Co, to take over the leases for Cleeve Hill with the borough council for the clubhouse and with the trust for playing golf on the common. The new company’s ranks include an architect, a surveyor, a planner and the chairman of a hotel chain. “The course does not need changing,” said Hovey. “It just needs a bit of TLC. There will not be any modification, apart from a bit of work on the greens. There is no way we can improve on what Tom Morris, Alister MacKenzie and David Brown have done.” A Hub will be created at The Hill offering other amenities to the whole community. With over 25 years’ experience in the property industry, Foyle said, “We are excited to have won the bid to transform the golf club and are acutely aware of what a huge privilege and responsibility this is. “While our key objective is to create a sustainable and successful business, we embark on this re-development with the local community at the forefront of our minds. The key to the success of this project is to create
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a lasting legacy for future generations in the Cotswolds to enjoy.” The Hub’s plans ensure there is a balance of size and scale with the sensitivity of the surrounding area, so it does not overwhelm Cleeve Hill with too many visitors. Plans include improved parking and upgrades for golfers, riders, walkers, cyclists and everyone who wants to enjoy Cleeve Hill. Hovey added: “We shall work with the golf club members to make it a welcoming and a more attractive venue for all visitors. This will include lodge accommodation, a restaurant and a new pro shop with a café.” Last year, the borough council revealed that the clubhouse, which it owns, was earmarked for closure unless it was able to find a new partner to take on the lease after the previous operator said it was not viable to continue. Council leader Rob Bird said: “This excellent Cotswold Hub Co. proposal more than delivers on our four crucial criteria, of enhancing the space for use by the community, protecting the local environment, protecting public access and being commercially sustainable.” The chair of Cleeve Common Trust, Phil Robson, said: “We are thrilled that we have been able to retain the playing of golf on Cleeve Common. The course is considered to be of historical value within the world of golf, but it is also part of the history of the common.” *Golf Societies, corporates and groups are encouraged to pre-book early as a busy summer of golfing is expected on Cleeve Hill.
For pre-bookings or for more information about the Mashie Members Club email: contactus@mashiegolf.co.uk
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CLOTHING
PLAY IT
LIGHT COOL THIS SPRING AND
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THE ICONIC BRIDGE LOGO CONTINUES TO INSPIRE GOLFERS BOTH ON AND OFF THE COURSE, COMBINING SPORT AND FASHION. If you’re a style-conscious golfer, you know J.Lindeberg. The Swedish fashion house continues to provide a creative range of traditional designs with a modern influence, and a style recognisable whether you are on the fairway, in the clubhouse or away from the golf club. A little more than 20 years ago, J.Lindeberg burst on the scene, shook up the world of golf fashion and continue to do so. With modern simplicity, style and advanced functionality, J.Lindeberg shape the look for an active contemporary golfer both on and off the course.
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This season, they raise the bar yet again with the introduction of three new technologies into their eye-catching and desirable ranges. New collections are in their words ‘the lightest collection in golf, ever’. These technologies take the next big step into the future and further establish J.Lindeberg as the innovative leader in golf fashion. The SS21 collections include polos, mid-layers, golf pants, sleeveless tops, and hats enhanced with refined fabrics — eye-catching explosive colour assortments from lava orange to thyme green, tropical coral, and ocean blue colour palette from the collection.
There is plenty of ventilation with even quicker drying capabilities, keeping you fresh and comfortable. Golf polos feature Gradient Tech, which is a technology exclusive to J.Lindeberg. It provides gradient density, a lightweight bottom that turns progressively denser at the top where it is most needed. Also integrated into the apparel is Active Mesh, which yields a cooling effect with a lightweight feel while offering Featherlight coverage. This contributes mobility and textiles that won’t stick, distributing comfort and 4-way stretch. The iconic bridge logo continues to inspire golfers both on and off the course, combining sport and fashion.
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THE FULL J.LINDEBERG COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE TO VIEW AT ALL LEADING GOLF RETAILERS
This is clothing that performs and delivers, encouraging golfers to explore their look in style, never compromising on distinct design, sharp silhouettes and bold colours.
The brand has paid lots of attention to the cut lines and fits of their products. No longer do you need to be 6ft tall and the build of a model to wear J.Lindeberg.
J. Lindeberg continues to lead a balance between innovative fashion and sportive minimalism.
Adding to the diameter of mid-layers means they now fit like a layer and not a skin style product while still giving slimming silhouettes and of course that traditional J.Lindeberg look which oozes style and class and inspires confidence.
Every garment is designed to match the JL persona. There is a focus on attainable luxury with high functionality creating a desirable multi-purpose look for the active contemporary lifestyle. Over the years, J.Lindeberg has followed a design styling based on a slim and athletic feel. This was part of a revolution started by Johan Lindeberg in 1996 which saw its progressive looks quickly earn a healthy respect for the traditions of the game while challenging the status quo. The gradual increase of a regular fit to JL sizing options over recent years now sees 80% of their products available in a regular fit. This allows golfers of all ages and sizes to benefit from wearing this iconic brand. Don’t be mistaken by thinking a regular fit JL product will be oversized like a lot of golf polos in pro shops can be.
The addition to this season’s collection of selected products - with a lower entry price - further brings the exclusive look, feel, design and quality of J.Lindberg into a marketplace that for years has been flooded with oversized, poor fitting sports brands. It’s a clever and well-executed move by J.Lindeberg to position their clothing in this arena for a wider variety of golfers to enjoy. Price points over past years meant the J.Lindeberg brand was mainly explored by the golfer who had more of a passion for fashion and a larger wallet. The introduction of, for example, a £55 ‘Heath’ golf polo, positions this iconic brand and its quality alongside these other sports brands.
NEW TECHNOLOGY AT A GLANCE
Gradient Tech excels in performance through innovative 5 yarn technology with gradient density, a lightweight bottom that becomes increasingly dense at the top.
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The Featherlight golf polos couldn’t be more comfortable, providing an ultra-lightweight feel yet offering coverage. The temperature acclimated golf polo exerts maximum mobility and fabric that won’t cling, providing extreme comfort and 4-way stretch.
The Active Mesh program offers a new type of Performance mesh detailing integrated into performance fabrics to improve airflow and transport moisture. With the addition of 4 way stretch, it provides flexibility in all directions and excellent ventilation for a cooling effect. E XCLUSIVEG OLFANDTR AVEL .CO.UK
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MENS
CLOTHING - SPRING / SUMMER LOOKBOOKS
PLAY THE WAY THIS SEASON
LADIES
CLICK PLAY TO VIEW EACH LOOKBOOK
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FROM AN IDEA CREATED IN A GARDEN SHED TO A GLOBAL BRAND CREATING THE FINEST AND MOST SOUGHT AFTER GOLF TROLLEYS IN THE MARKETPLACE - WE CHAT TO THE MAN BEHIND THE STEWART GOLF BRAND . . .
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INTERVIEW
C
omedians Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan were playing St Andrews for laughs on TV, messing about with remote electric golf trolleys by dropping them into bunkers. Even Mark Stewart, whose company makes the trolley they were mistreating, was chuckling. He was also thinking: “Would Daniel Craig treat James Bond’s Aston Martin like that?”
There is logic behind the analogy. Bond’s mean machine is trending now Aston Martin has announced a return to the Formula One circuit. The Q Follow trolley is selling faster than Mark and his colleagues can make it because it is at the high end of its market for the same reasons. Both deliver exceptional performance and both look cool. “We have TV companies on the phone to us a few times every year asking us if they can use our trolleys, said Mark. “Although performance is fundamental to our success, to the TV people our trolleys are 100% about looks and helping to set the scene if it involves golf. ”They tell us they want something viewers will think is cool. Whether those viewers play golf is irrelevant. For instance last year, a character in a Hugh Laurie show was walking through a space station on Sky 1 with one of our trolleys following him. How cool was that?” The pandemic has created a huge demand in America, where Stewart Golf USA was established as a subsidiary in 2016 after a successful debut at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. Many courses in the United States have remained open throughout COVID-19, but social distancing guidelines dictated the use of rented buggies is either illegal or restricted to single-rider use. Walking has been the only remaining option.
the Q Follow is such they are in the process of increasing production space by 50%. Turnover for the past 12 months is £5.1m, as against £2.5m for the previous year. The company’s workforce has risen from 13 to 27, and will be 30 by the end of April. In the first two and a half months of 2021, orders for electric trolleys amount to half as many as in the whole of 2020. These days Mark is the owner and chief executive officer. Back in the late 1990s he was one of four engineers thinking of getting into the golf industry and trying out ideas on a remote trolley which was sturdy and would not tip over. “We chose electric trolleys because at the time they had a bad image, they were not remote and they looked horrible,” he said. “Just frames with motors bolted on and a battery stuck on the back. There was no aesthetic appeal. “Golfers looked down their noses at them because they made any player look as if they were on their last legs or had something wrong with them physically. Trolleys were selling to the over-70s but we were convinced the core market was 40 to 60. “Our first model was the Stewart X1 and once we started testing it for real on a golf course, we loved it so much, it made us wonder why you would want to play golf without one. "We discovered using a remote control trolley was a fantastic new experience because all you had to think about was chatting with your fellow golfers and your next shot. Our Follow system that we launched in 2014 takes that experience to the next level.
• Rob & Rommesh with the Q Follow at St Andrews.
The Wall Street Journal, the New York based and business focused newspaper, ran the following headline: ‘We’re out of Toilet Paper, Hand Sanitizer – and Golf Pushcarts’, the word “pushcarts”being an American term for all trolleys, whether electric powered or pushed. To fully appreciate the growth of the sales chart, it helps to look back three years to when Stewart Golf moved seven miles from Stroud to a new 10,000 sq ft building costing £1m at Waterwells Business Park in Gloucester. Already, demand for
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INTERVIEW • Stewart Golf’s HQ in Gloucester
• From the drawing board to production: Initial sketches of the original Stewart X1 and an early image of that design in the X3 model. “As engineers at the time we felt it was the golf trolley version of Concorde in terms of performance and looks. It nailed it. All the expansion has followed from getting the mechanics right from the start and when you get the sunlight bouncing off the sleek shell of the exterior, our trolleys are a truly beautiful sight.” Over the years, the X1 has been refined several times and the latest model is the X10 Follow which retails for £1499. The Q Follow is a little more and that buys you a trolley with a wheel at the back for extra stability plus it folds down to just under half the size, ideal for sports car owners and a help if you need to fit two golf trolleys into your boot.
The business began in a garden shed in Stroud during 1999, shortly before, as an 18-year-old, Mark started at Loughborough University. Then as now, it all starts with performance. Mark said: “If those comedians had picked our brains, they could have done a lot worse to our Q Follow trolleys than just tipping them into bunkers. “In testing it, we set out to try to break it, by throwing it over things and chucking it off stuff. We did things many times worse than what you saw at St Andrews on TV. We had to be aggressive because customers might accidentally do bizarre things we had not thought of. “It stood up to all of it. So all our customers can be 100% confident The Q Follow is not just a pretty face!”
Stewart receive support from Gloucester MP Stewart Golf export to more than 50 countries, including Sweden, Canada, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. Thanks to the support of the MP for Gloucester, Richard Graham, Mark Stewart is a Department for International Trade Export Champion. When the MP opened Stewart Golf’s factory after the move to Gloucester in 2018, his words then take on so much extra significance now they have turned out to be prophetic. He said: “Opening this new factory is a very happy day for anything hand-built in Great Britain and for our export business, which this country is going to rely on in the future. “We are never going to win in the world by mass manufacturing and trying to sell cheap goods for everybody.
• The Q Follow trolley.
“It’s got to be special, handbuilt, something that’s unusual, that’s high tech and innovative and that’s going to appeal to people who have the money to pay for high-quality goods. That’s exactly what Stewart Golf do.”
• The new upgraded X10 trolley.
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THE RANGE IS CHANGING How a UK-based start-up is changing golf for the better
J
ust as technology has played a huge part in the development of golf equipment over recent years, golf clubs and driving ranges across the world are now realising the huge potential which comes with the latest ball-tracking technologies. Traditionally, the purpose of driving ranges has been to provide a place for golfers to warm-up before a round or practice the game in their spare time. It is an old formula that until very recently hadn’t changed for nearly a century. But just as technology has played a huge part in the development of golf equipment over recent years, golf clubs and driving ranges across the world are now realising the huge potential which comes with the latest ball-tracking technologies. The days of the unappealing, cold and often forgotten driving ranges are now well and truly numbered. The
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evolution of ball-tracking software means that the driving range has the potential to become a more immersive and enjoyable experience - not only for a serious golfer wanting to work on their game, but also a new generation of non-golfers looking for social entertainment experiences. In recent years the growth of these digitally-enhanced driving ranges has been huge, this has seen a number of brands launching their own versions of ball-tracking/shot tracing technologies.
From deep space to the driving range At the forefront of the development of ball-tracking hardware and software is the UK-based start-up Inrange®. Their story starts a long way from the ball machine and driving range mat. Inrange’s world-class engineering team honed their skills developing the world’s most powerful radio telescopes, helping
to discover the origins of the universe itself. But as keen golfers themselves, they saw another way to use this radar technology not only to create something more accurate for golfers, and not just to make practice more fun, but to do something much bigger. Inrange set out to use their technology combined with the more informal environment of the driving range to open up the game of golf and attract a whole new generation of players (hopefully the next generation of golfers), to make practice fun and to redefine what ‘playing golf’ actually looks like.
The player experience The beauty of the Inrange system is that this single installation of sensors covers every single bay and enables players to choose from a variety of different practice and play modes.
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FEATURE How it works The brand is taking new technologies to levels not experienced so far in the driving range tech arena. While current technology is heavily dependent on algorithms and predicting ball flights due to light conditions, weather and bay-based tracking detectors, Inrange’s unique state of the art radar systems, which are located around the range, create the unique ability to track the ball from the moment it is struck, until it comes to rest, regardless of weather or light conditions.
FORGET ABOUT THE RANGE AS A JUST PRACTICE FACILITY – INRANGE+ HAS TURNED RANGES ACROSS THE GLOBE INTO ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATIONS
This enhancement in technology, powered by ultra-sensitive radar sensors, means that over 98% of shots are tracked to less than 1-metre accuracy making it arguably the world’s most accurate and efficient tracking system.
Just getting started With Inrange already live across the globe at ranges in the UK, US, South Africa and the Middle East and many more being rolled out globally in 2021, you may already be able to experience this incredible new tech enhancement at a facility near you. If not, look out – the chances are, it won’t be long coming.
Inrange - an augmented
reality practice experience located on a high definition touchscreen in the driving range bay. Allows players to see their ball inflight within a virtual recreation of the physical range.
Inrange App – the same core player interface but brought to your own mobile device, enabling a player to walk into any bay – even on an open ‘green grass’ facility, download the app, hit a ball, and then see its flight on their own device in real-time.
Inrange+ - In many ways, this
is the most exciting aspect of the Inrange® software. Inrange+ enables players of any ability – including complete beginners – to take each other on in immersive, arcade-style multiplayer games.
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GOLF MEMBERSHIP
EVERYBODY’S HAVING A BALL IN THE
VIRTUAL GOLF CLUB Men on a mission: Luke Parry (left) and Paul Rockett (right).
Few people foresaw the boom on English courses in 2020. Tim Taylor talks to admirers of two men who did just that and formed Linksnet - the leading global online golf network.
The exotically named Virgin Swingers Golf Club (behave yourself, not that sort of swinger) was one of the first casualties of the pandemic when its devastating effect on the airline industry forced Richard Branson to order his top brass to make immediate and drastic cutbacks. It had been run for Virgin by Milestone Event Management and with the virus rampant their directors could have been forgiven for giving up on that part of their business. Yet Milestone had come up with the idea, started with 100 globe trotting golf loving members and over 16 years had surpassed 12,000 worldwide by the time Covid-19 ended it for them with Virgin. Also, Paul Rockett and Luke Parry had been running events for major corporate names such as Miele, DP World, Michael Page and Euronics under the Milestone banner for 19 years. So in May 2020, at a time when nobody could anticipate the gruesome ferocity and complexity of the pandemic or the length of the lockdowns, they launched a virtual golf club.
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Linksnet is different in that 95% of the members are UK based but already just as successful. No longer having access to the Virgin data base, Paul and Luke used nothing more than word of mouth as they sprinted out of the starting blocks with over 1,000 members in nine months. With the 50-50 vision which arrives with hindsight, you can see now that Milestone moved ahead of a national trend. When England Golf did their sums at the end of last season, they discovered their affiliated clubs bagged an extra 20,000 members in 2020. This should not have been entirely unexpected in an increasingly fraught year when fresh air and exercise became more of a necessity than an option with golf an enjoyable escape route from the nightmare of the pandemic. Paul and Luke know all there is to know about running a virtual golf club. But one indication of how well they understand the ethos as well as the commerce of the sport they love is that the Linksnet platform splits its family of members into two categories for playing purposes– those with an official world handicap and casual players. ISSUE 16
The platform enables members to organise their calendar with fellow users at the click of a button, at the same time providing access to personal golfing news and scores. Members can also compete in a golf league. There are network days at prestige courses and of ten events on the 2021 fixture list, three are fully booked despite any pandemic related uncertainty. As ever, though, it’s really all about people. Among the members is Rebecca Gray, an HR manager from Cheshire and a 12-handicapper. She says: “It’s a fantastic and friendly network of people playing fun, competitive mixed golf at all levels on high quality courses. "Paul and Luke use their years of experience to ensure that the Linksnet league and events always run seamlessly and they make sure every participant gets the most enjoyment out of it as possible. This attention to detail, allows them to select courses that suit both the quality and playability required to satisfy the needs of all involved. “The success they have delivered over the last 16 years that I have known them through Linksnet and Virgin is undoubtedly because of the friendships they have built in their golfing network. Luke and Paul are the difference between Linksnet and other golfing leagues." Another member, Bob Scott, a retired IT services executive from Buckinghamshire, says: “The network has grown into a really great community. The loyalty, friendships, banter, camaraderie and spirit is genuine and it’s down to Paul, Luke and their team’s hard work, customer focus and attention to detail.” A former club cricketer, 20-handicapper Bob lives in Prestwood in the Chiltern Hills. He’s captain of Hazlemere Golf Club, who are hosting a Linksnet network day on June 18. He added: “The network allows myself and my wife Karen to play different courses and with different people. We have met and played with other Linksnet members in Florida, Barbados and Scotland while on holidays” An asset to the Linksnet stable is a former world trick shot champion, Geoff Swain, respected enough to attract the following recommendation from the Sky Sports Golf front man, Nick Dougherty:
“Through all of my years in this sport I’ve never come across someone who is as complete a package as Geoff. He is the best in the business of trick shots and a world class compere and host too. I love working with Geoff because I know we will deliver a world class event that is thoroughly enjoyed by the guests and we’ll have a lot of fun along the way too. The best there is.” Geoff has again joined the platform in their second season to offer members humour, insight, tips and tricks. The word tricks is now fourth in that list for a reason. When Paul and Luke recruit Geoff for a golf day, what he does has evolved into a golf clinic plus Q&A which includes fun tricks so he is informing golfers as well as entertaining them. He can also act as a tournament host and/or compere and do a comedy stand-up routine. Geoff has an inside track on why the club has thrived, saying: I have known Paul and Luke since their early days of Milestone and they are two of the nicest and most honest guys you will ever meet in the golf industry. They are so passionate about the sport it is no surprise to me they have made a success of it. “Their carefully thought out concept for virtual golf and social interaction is fantastic, a great way for players to keep in touch with each other and I know a lot of their members make use of the chat and networking side of it during lockdowns.” Linksnet attracts leading brands with sponsors supporting their programme and providing as many prizes for the website as for the network days. There’s a range of monthly competition prizes from the likes of Titleist, Bushnell Golf, Skechers, Dirty Dog Eyewear, Stewart Golf, Island Green, Camelbak, Max Golf Protein and Hayman’s Gin. Plus the return of a team final. Members show their appreciation of the sponsors’ generosity by following them on their social media platforms and Paul Rockett says: “Despite the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, we are proud of our achievements in 2020. “We are now ready to take the platform to the next level and embrace the positivity we all feel about 2021.”
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MEMBERSHIP PACKAGES PAR
Free to join, giving access to general participation on the site.
BIRDIE
Access to most networking benefits of the site, the Network Days and qualification for the Final. (£3.99 per month)
EAGLE Complete access to all networking functionality, the Network Days, exclusive competitions and an exclusive eagle goody bag worth over £200. (£119 per year)
WHY THE MEMBERS LOVE LINKSNET
Rebecca Gray ‘I do believe it is helpful for everybody to know there’s a golfing network for men and women of all levels of ability and that all are welcome’
Roger Harpum 'A network which enables me to build personal and business relationships with people who share my love of the game'
Bob Scott 'An innovative golf community platform, to meet friends old and new, play great courses and win fantastic prizes'
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CORPORATE GOLF
THE CHANGING FACE OF
BUSINESS ON THE COURSE For over 12 years Sportingclass have been specialists at providing hospitality and facilitating relationships on the course, through their leading corporate golf tournament, the Sportingclass Industry Invitational. After noticing a shift in the way businesses are looking to entertain clients they have launched a new membership service. We talk to Ben Goodson, about their experiences delivering golf services and how they see the future for corporate golf and travel.
EGT: The Sportingclass Industry Invitational has gone from strength to strength, and now attracts over 1,200 golfers each year, what do you put the success down too? The focus has always been on looking at how we can facilitate personal relationships before, during and after our events. Whether that is through our pre and post event communications or by carefully managing our guest journey during the event to maximise networking opportunities. We are also very grateful to our partners, who always create memorable activations and drive unique experiences for our guests. We always ensure the series offers much more value than a typical golf day and we enjoy getting creative! It also helps when you can offer a first-place prize of an all-expense paid trip to places such as Pebble Beach or TPC Kuala Lumpur. EGT: How has the pandemic affected this? It has obviously had a massive impact on the business, but we are very confident things will be better in the summer and there is no doubt demand for golf, across all areas, will boom. The situation also provided us the opportunity to review the relationship golf has with hospitality and business networking in 2021. We gained some interesting insights from our clients. EGT: Tell us more... How do you see hospitality and networking changing within golf? It is no secret that companies are finding it harder to justify holding golf events due to more stringent 38
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regulations, greater budget constraints and congested diaries. We have found the COVID pandemic has only magnified this problem resulting in cancelled conferences, meetings, and events. Businesses will get more comfortable with remote working and virtual meetings, reducing face-face business contact. However, we firmly believe that golf provides the perfect opportunity to facilitate meetings and hospitality. It is therefore important to ensure our services are aligned to the changing demand of meetings and hospitality. EGT: How are you tailoring your services? Whilst we will be resuming the Sportingclass Industry Invitational in 2021 (much too our clients delight) we have created a new product that offers a more flexible approach to networking and hospitality on the course. Our latest offering, The Sportingclass Golf Club gives give members access to a wide range of premier golf courses around the world. It is designed for busy senior executives and business owners who enjoy playing golf at some of the world’s best courses. We feel this service gives the perfect solution to corporate golf, post pandemic, allowing members to play when and where they want. EGT: Sounds great – where can we find out more? We have recently launched our new website for the brand which we are excited about. You can find more information there – www.sportingclass-golfclub.com ISSUE 16
A PREMIER MEMBERS CLUB OFFERING EXCLUSIVE ACCESS TO THE WORLDS FINEST GOLF CLUBS AND UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
LEARN MORE: www.sportingclass-golfclub.com ISSUE 16
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INSTRUCTION
SPICE UP YOUR
WEDGE GAME WHAT I LEARNED FROM SUPER SEVE BY ANDREW MURRAY (FORMER EUROPEAN OPEN CHAMPION) I hero worshipped Seve Ballesteros. So you can imagine how grateful I was for what he did on a few occasions during the 17 years we played on the PGA European Tour at a time when our careers overlapped. Seve helped me to improve my game on the practice ground because he was a great sharer of his knowledge with those who took the time to approach him. His words of wisdom were dispensed to me over the years, during off-season practice at La Manga in Spain, during the Swiss Open at Crans-sur-Sierre and also when we played at Woburn in the British Masters. Talk about
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living the dream. About getting the ultimate master class. It was surreal. Much of what follows in this article was ingrained in my mind by the most influential player in the history of the European game and I am concentrating on something at which Seve was a magician - his wedge play. The only way to improve your consistency in terms of getting the ball close to the flag is by starting your first practice drill alongside the green, and then moving further away in stages from the green with other drills. The first thing you do anywhere you are is to assess the lie. If it is OK for you to play your chosen
shot from alongside the green, you visualise in your mind how you would throw the ball underarm to the hole. That will give you the right height and flight to most easily replicate what you do when you come to strike the ball with your club. Most people would visualise pitching the ball on the green and then it running out low towards the pin, running at the hole like a putt. However, Seve taught me to visualise getting the ball on the surface of the green quickly to get it running low towards the hole as soon as possible.
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SEVE TAUGHT ME TO VISUALISE GETTING THE BALL ON THE SURFACE OF THE GREEN QUICKLY TO GET IT RUNNING LOW TOWARDS THE HOLE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
When you play a shot alongside the green, simply think of chipping the ball forwards rather than upwards. Flying the ball up in the air and trying to achieve the right spin from a short distance is something most of us do not have the skill to do. On this first drill, Seve would say to me: “Get it over the barrier. Go over the fringe and the rough. Get it on the putting surface as if you are throwing the ball underarm.” I would advise adopting a stance you would throw a ball with by pointing your left toe a little bit towards the target. What that does is open up your left pelvic joint to throw the ball forwards not upwards. From greenside rough, I would probably use a club with a little bit more loft because the ball tends to come out a little bit faster. It is vital to hit the ball with a slightly downward blow on the turf. This pops the ball in the air as much as it is necessary. If I have a sand wedge in my hand, I am hitting with 56 degrees of loft. That means using the bounce so the bounce hits the ground and my arms stay straight through impact. Think: back edge, straight arms. “Bounce” is how much the back edge of the sole of the club makes contact with the ground. This is a subject that is a little misunderstood. We need bounce to make contact with the ground first, rather than the leading edge of the club. Trust the bounce and try to get that bounce to skid on the surface of the ground. You are letting the loft on the club do the work rather than trying to scoop the ball up out of the rough. The flight of the ball will make it come out of the rough at the angle of the loft you are using. When you move further back again to a fairway approach shot, most people have got two or three wedges in the bag to choose from. I would suggest the gaps between the wedges are
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reasonably equal, with anything between four and six degrees difference between each wedge. You need to take some professional advice as to what is right for you and you do not have to be a member of a golf club to do so. The vast majority of PGA professionals will welcome anybody into their club shop and be only too happy to have this discussion with you. The average loft for a pitching wedge is around 44 or 45 degrees and, as I touched on before, for sand wedge 56 degrees. That is a very big gap. Some people might put in a gap wedge of 50 degrees, A lob wedge will be about 60 degree. In the hands of some club players, it would be better off left in the garden propping up the roses! Once you have taken advice and decided on the right wedges for you, practice with a quarter swing, a half swing, a three quarter swing and a full swing. Do so with each of those wedges. Firstly, that enables you to judge distance, getting an initial basic handle on how far you hit the ball with each of them.
It is only by getting a feel for what path your club is taking that that you will learn from that trajectory. For example, if you are in trouble under trees, you will discover which club hits the ball to which height.
See it feel it: Visualise in your mind how you would throw the ball underarm to the hole.
Once you have done that, you can control the spin on the ball, as flight is spin. Pop it up high and it will come down steep. Hit it low under a branch then it is not going to come down as steeply because it is going lower from the start. Just teaching yourself in this way is a really good thing to do, which is what Seve did. You are bound to favour one of your wedges because that is only human nature. Try to become familiar with all your wedges. Most golfers only use their favourite wedge and don’t use another one. Avoiding that trap is a key element in shooting lower scores and learning about your ball flight. Andrew specialises in oneon-one or group coaching and corporate golf events. ANDREWMURRAYGOLF.COM
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FEATURE
Defending champions: Danny Murray, and his pink jacket with the Sutton Green team.
‘Champions League’ for elite golfers goes national
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scratch team event featuring the best club players across your region, including an exciting Champions League competition and knock-out tournament, could be heading your way next year. Yet you are unlikely to know about the success story so far unless you live in the south of England. A summer-long platform of inter-club matches run by the Elite Amateur Golf Group has become so popular among leading amateurs south of the Watford Gap, it has established itself as the UK’s biggest scratch league with a five-star finale at The Grove. Any club member can compete in the league, although everybody plays off scratch. The Southern Counties Scratch Golf League started with 12 clubs in 2017. Despite the pandemic, progress has been such that 2021 will see 80 clubs competing across 16 counties, initially in minileagues. Golfers everywhere will note with interest the route map planned for 2022. At least 120 clubs will contest the league, going further up England. By 2025 there will be 400 clubs, spreading across the UK. Just as important as the figures is the ethos. The golf group is all about expert organisation and growth at a natural pace. Everything the men who run it do is based on more even than the affection
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the vast majority of golfers tend to feel for their clubs. The group have drawn from their personal experiences at the elite end of single figure handicappers. How good at the sport elite players are is illustrated by a revealing England Golf statistic: Only two per cent of golfers ever break a gross score of 80. It is understandable economics dictate that clubs cater for the majority, but as a golf group director, William Goy, puts it: “I think most fair-minded people would understand us feeling a little left behind at times. “We set up the business based on personal experiences. Decades of tradition in the amateur sport have left elite competitions mainly drawn up all too readily along county lines as selected by the county golf unions. “We found ourselves playing the same old knockout competitions against the same old players every season from the same old clubs and if you get knocked out what do you do for the rest of the season? We have answered that question with our summer-long platform.” Goy’s co-founder of the group, Alex Cooper, referred to next year’s growth when he said: “Because of our success, the Southern Counties Scratch Golf League will become the Elite Amateur Scratch Golf League in 2022. ISSUE 16
FEATURE
THE ROAD TO THE GROVE 2021 • Singles Scratch Matchplay
We are going to change from a regional organisation and go national.
woke up the following morning at home suffering from a champions sized hangover and still wearing the jacket in bed, with his arms wrapped around the trophy.
“We have given elite players extra opportunities to feel proud of representing their club and the club more reason to feel proud of those players. That sense of pride is felt by us at the Elite Amateur Golf ‘WE HAVE Group, our host venues and the leading brands GIVEN ELITE who act as our sponsors PLAYERS EXTRA and enable us to put the golfers on the pedestal OPPORTUNITIES they deserve.” This year’s Road To The Grove is a five-star journey in every sense. The Grove is a sumptuous venue offering a glorious setting for a climax to a seasonlong event and the journey to it is unlike anything else on offer to the elite amateur golf community. The golf group is rewarding the best amateur golfers in the UK for their talents and making them feel more valued.
TO FEEL PROUD OF REPRESENTING THEIR CLUB AND THE CLUB MORE REASON TO FEEL PROUD OF THOSE PLAYERS. ALEX COOPER
This was a re-enactment of the Moliwood moment following the Ryder Cup a year earlier, involving Francesco Molinari and Tommy Fleetwood. It was also an indication of how quickly winning the trophy has come to mean so much to golfers in the south of England. Goy added: “We have changed the face of elite amateur golf. Some very big clubs are competing this year including Hindhead, Parkstone, Stoke Park, The London Club and Woburn. Many of the 80 clubs going for the title have never played a competitive fixture against each other.
How much enjoyment winning the title gives the players – and how highly they rate the event – is illustrated by a story concerning the most recent captain to have lifted the trophy, Danny Murray, of the Sutton Green club in Guildford.
“We researched the event before we launched our business and we knew we had to make scratch golf more accessible. There is no longer a restricted relationship between elite players and their clubs nor between elite players and their peers at other clubs.
The winning captain is presented with a pink jacket. Following a night of intense celebration with his team-mates, Murray
“We have increased the opportunity to play other courses. We knew we needed to create something different and we have.”
Join up now for next year: Do you and your club have what it takes to win the Elite Amateur Scratch Golf League when the event goes national next year? VISIT WWW.EAGG.CO.UK FOR INFORMATION OR EMAIL: WILL@EAGG.CO.UK ISSUE 16
• 80 Clubs taking part from: Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Dorset, Essex, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Middlesex, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire, Suffolk & Cambridgeshire, Surrey, Wiltshire • 16 Mini Leagues of 5 Teams (Travel times between clubs max 45 minutes where possible).
• 5 players per Team. • Monthly matches from March - July (2 home & 2 away matches). • Winning teams from each Mini League compete in knock-out stages: Last 16, Quarter-Finals and Semi-Finals. • Sunday October 3: Fully complimentary Finals Day at The Grove consisting of the Grand Final and Third Place Play-Off:18-hole tournament, 2 meals, gift on arrival, live scoring and amazing prizes.
OTHER EAGG EVENTS The EAGG Scratch 4BBB Pairs Knockout – The first and only scratch 4BBB Pairs event in the U.K.
The EAGG 4BBB Event series
– Compete against like minded single figure golfers at four incredible venues in 2021. Events will take place in July, August, September and October, venues to be decided.
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INSTRUCTION
SIMON DYSON EXPLORES HOW THE POWER OF YOUR MIND IS THE ROUTE TO MAKING LOWER SCORES
L
istening to Brooks Koepka on Sky following his comeback victory in Phoenix at the start of February brought back some happy memories after a performance which ranks as one the greatest comebacks since Lazarus.
The four-time major champion had to make birdies on his last four holes on the Saturday of the Waste Management Phoenix Open just to haul himself to within five strokes of the lead. In the final round, he erased that deficit with a 24-foot eagle putt at the third hole and a string of three birdies in a row beginning at the 13th. Even after that, his tournament took its decisive turn with another eagle when he chipped in dramatically from 98 feet at the 17th and he went on to sign for 65, six under for the round. Brooks had not bagged a PGA Tour title for 18 months and endured an injury-ravaged 2020, battling injuries to his left knee and hip, the knee requiring multiple stemcell treatments after he aggravated it slipping on a cart path. He admits there were times when he wondered whether he would ever be the same golfer again. He had gone to Phoenix on the back of three straight missed cuts telling anyone who would listen (not that many were listening at the time) that his game was fine. “Sometimes results aren’t everything,” he said. “You know it’s coming. You can feel it.” So what has all this got to do with me, now that I am a coach at my Mottram Hall academy near Prestbury in Cheshire? Well, partly because Brooks paid tribute to his coach, Pete Cowen, who was my coach during a career that brought me six European Tour titles. Clearly, Pete’s famous way with words, which I got to know and appreciate so well over the 24 years I was with him, helped Brooks maintain his confidence despite those missed cuts. Mainly though, it was how Brooks complimented Pete which resonated most with me. Brooks pointed out that this stunning chip was a result of the work he had put in on the practice ground and said the beauty of Pete is that he “keeps things simple”, golf’s three magic words and its most important secret. I was saying much the same thing about Pete in the last issue of this magazine and when Brooks unleashed that perfectly paced and directed chip, it had “made by Cowen” stamped all over it. You could see as Brooks stood over the ball his mind was
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crystal clear about what he wanted to do and he was totally committed to going for it. The ball slid down the cup sweetly, slap bang in the middle of the hole. That was a perfect illustration of the mental approach I advocate to my students which I learned from Pete. It is very much mind over matter, in that they always need to think only about what they want to do rather than what they do not want to do. It has been proven negative thoughts are between four and five times more powerful than positive thoughts. So the minute you get a negative thought in your head, that’s it. You’re done. It’s nearly impossible to get it out. Simply by training your mind to think about what you want to do, you have more chance of being successful at that and making it happen. OK, even positive people get negative thoughts and might not be great golfers. So if they see water down the right of a hole they might think “don’t push it.” So what are you going to do if you are thinking about what you don’t want to do? The chances are you will do it. Mind over matter means you have to stand back and focus on what you do want to do. IE: where you do want to hit the ball. To put it another way, never say never and don’t say don’t. This is why I’m told the first words you tend to hear when football coaches are trained at a basic level are: “Always show somebody what to do and never what not to do.” Examples in golf are where internal and external focus comes in. External focus is: What do you want that ball to do? Whereas internally, you are thinking “ooh, I don’t want to push it right or “I’m going to come over the top of it a bit”. This means you are thinking more about what you want the club to do rather than the ball. Also, a lot of people get on the putting green, empty a sleeve of balls and hit three putts to the hole, which makes your practice or warm-up unrealistic. When would you ever get three chances to make a putt in a tournament? You only get one opportunity. So replicate what you do on the course. The more you practice with one ball and make that one ball count, the more you replicate what you are going to be doing on the course. It’s the same with working on your short game. Chip one ball then go and putt it out. Or measure out one length of chip you need to make to hole the ball and also measure out how close you get to the hole with each of 18 chips.
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INSTRUCTION
Divide by 18 and you know where you are with your chips and then work out how you are going to improve that average. If you adopt that way of thinking to everything you do in practice then you will improve. Body language is also important. You are assuming the command position, you are up tall, your shoulders are back, you walk a bit faster. Again, it’s mind over matter. Your mind should always be concentrated on what you do when you are playing well and when you visualise that shot a bit better. Even when you are playing poorly, these are the things you should try to do to create good habits. If you do hit a bad shot, always try to find something positive about something. It might be “I have struck it well” or “I did not quite strike it but the direction was really good or “I liked the flight on that – it just kind of went a bit left”. If you can’t then don’t say anything. Don’t keep talking negatively or replicating negativity. Or saying to yourself “I have struck that terribly. Do not feed yourself negative thoughts because they will be destructive. It’s too easy to get onto a bad habit and unless somebody points it out, it’s something we all tend to do. So be different because good habits are the trademark of successful people in every walk of life. In fact they have brilliant habits.
One thing is all you need to think about to start with and once you are comfortable with that then we progress on to something else, because you have worked well with it. It helps to be able to show somebody yourself because the student can then stand back and say “Oh, so that’s what it does.” That is where Pete Cowen was always brilliant with me. He could always demonstrate what he was trying to tell me and that is where I hit the spot with my students in that I can demonstrate it as well as explaining it to them. I have a Facebook group with my students and I love it when they come on to tell me they have changed the one thing I have mentioned and have shot one under their handicap the day before and two under on the round they have just finished playing. And they have not thought about anything technically, just the one thing I have BEEN shown them.
IT HAS PROVEN NEGATIVE THOUGHTS ARE BETWEEN FOUR AND FIVE TIMES MORE POWERFUL THAN POSITIVE THOUGHTS.
I am making a study of sports psychology and another factor which affects golfers is information overload. You might have your playing partners telling you what you are doing wrong. You might have a magazine telling you what you should be doing, or YouTube, or your pro. Golfers need to start taking accountability of at least trying to figure out what you need to do. Not what everyone else thinks you need to do. If you live for tips, trying to find that fix takes you down the wrong path. It’s almost desperation when it will be a single and simple thing that needs changing. Most golfers over complicate it and set off in search of perfection. There is no such thing as perfection in golf.
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I work on the one step at a time principle. I never give any of my students three or four things to think about.
Students come to me for all sorts of reasons and they have widely varying personalities and beliefs about the sport. Usually, they say they have had lessons and that their head is spinning. But I have a very simple method. I just say “do this” and get them to hit a certain shot. Then they hit it and I’m saying “that’s it”. Then they look at me in surprise and say : “Is that it?”. I have videoed the swing and say “Just look at your swing there”. Then they say: “But you have not told me anything technical”.
And I say: “The best way for me to get you to figure it out for yourself is by me getting you to hit a certain shot. And you figuring it out for yourself means you retain the information way better than if I am telling you where to put the club.” From my end of things it’s always about me always saying enough but never too much. I started going to lessons with Pete when I was 16 and his vast knowledge of how to show somebody how to play any golf shot is something I have learned from, especially that way he keeps things simple.
You need to find a pro that suits your game, somebody you connect with and who keeps it simple for you. These days you see a lot of coaches talking about certain positions in the swing and a lot of students walk away from it not understanding what has been said.
In all the time I was with him, Pete hardly ever changed my swing and that’s the approach I try to take as much as possible when my students come to see me, in that there is nearly always something natural you can work with. It’s more about a golfer’s performance than banging on about technique.
I have had plenty of students tell me mine is the most simple lesson they have ever had and that they understood it.
I like pointing out things you do well and things you need to do a bit better, the way Pete did with me. He was a wise mentor to me, as he is now to Koepka.
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TRAVEL
GET READY FOR THE GREAT UK
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xperience some of the world’s most authentic & natural courses right here in the UK this summer.
With no clear ideas of when we will be able to travel abroad for that long-awaited golf break in the sun, we have pulled together a selection of golf break packages from stunning venues across the UK. With a rich variety of options and jaw-dropping courses to play this spring and summer, we are guaranteed some enjoyable golf and plenty of smiles even if we don’t have the sun to go with it. From classic links and traditional heathlands to beautiful parklands and secluded woodlands, the
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golfing spotlight shines on the UK and the options are limitless. Whether you’re looking for a resort break or a golf tour, England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales are all blessed with magnificent destinations and courses to choose from for your Great British Golfcation this summer. With a wide choice of budget-friendly or luxury accommodation, great transportation links and an array of off-course activities for an unforgettable golf trip, we have pulled together a selection of options from our partners to whet your appetite.
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TRAVEL UK & IRELAND
Slaley Hall, Northumberland
Oulton Hall, Leeds
Belton Woods, Lincolnshire
Telford Hotel & Golf Resort
QHotels delivers a shot in the arm for UK golfers £99 per person offer at all seven award-winning venues this year Golfers can put the worries of the Covid pandemic to one side and celebrate some much-needed cheer with the QHotels Group this year, with one-night, two-round breaks on offer from just £99 per person.
The QHotels Group operates seven top golf resorts |in England and Scotland:
The UK’s largest golf resort operator is offering fantastic value on stay-and-play half-board breaks throughout 2021 at all seven of its award-winning golf resorts in England and Scotland.
• Oulton Hall, Leeds
As well as featuring 36 holes of golf, the eye-catching breaks also include four-star overnight hotel accommodation, a full English breakfast and an evening meal. All packages – which are based on two people sharing a room – include the QHotels Group’s Flexible Booking Guarantee, which allows guests to make changes to their booking free of charge should plans change.
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• Belton Woods, in Grantham, Lincolnshire • Dunston Hall, in Norwich • Slaley Hall, in Hexham, Northumberland • Telford Hotel & Golf Resort, in Shropshire • DoubleTree by Hilton Forest Pines Spa & Golf Resort, in Brigg • DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Westerwood Spa & Golf Resort.
VISIT WEBSITE
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TURNBERRY, SCOTLAND
Create your own Duel in the Sun this summer
Follow in the footsteps of golfing legends Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson at Turnberry and create your own version of the unforgettable Duel in the Sun. The enthralling battle on the famous Ailsa course for the Open Championship in 1977 remains steeped in golfing folklore, but this four-time host of the Open Championship has undergone a significant upgrade in recent times to take what was already a magical experience to a whole new level. With the Ayrshire coastline providing the spectacular backdrop, the revamped King Robert the Bruce course presents
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another superb challenge in its own right and is maintained to the same exceptional standards. The iconic Turnberry lighthouse – now a halfway house for both courses – is among a selection of restaurants at the venue, while there is a fabulous range of accommodation available. The impressive nine-hole Arran course, relaxing spa facilities and a choice of several outdoor pursuits – including horse riding, quad biking and archery – all adds up to a special experience. Visit: www.trumphotels.com/turnberry
PACKAGES & OFFERS • A two-night stay including breakfast, dinner on one night in the 1906 restaurant and two rounds on the Ailsa, starts from £499 (based on two sharing) until May 14, 2021 (£769, 15/5/21 – 01/10/21). • A two-night stay, including breakfast, dinner on one night in the 1906 restaurant and two rounds on the King Robert the Bruce, starts from £329 (based on two sharing) until May 14, 2021 (£479, 15/5/21 – 01/10/21).
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TRAVEL UK & IRELAND
SOUTHPORT:
ROYAL & OPEN EXPERIENCE
2 NIGHTS B&B & 3 ROUNDS OF GOLF FROM £765PP
ROYAL LYTHAM & ST ANNES
ROYAL BIRKDALE
ROYAL LIVERPOOL (HOYLAKE)
The North West is home to some of the very best golf courses in England. Enjoy golf at Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool and Royal Lytham & St Annes, staying in the Bliss Hotel, Southport from just £765 per person. We have another five of the very best courses in the region to choose from as well! This offer is available for travel from the 17th May until the 30th June 2021.
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VISIT WEBSITE
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TRAVEL UK & IRELAND
WILTSHIRE: THE MANOR HOUSE 1 NIGHT B&B & 2 ROUNDS OF GOLF FROM £169PP PACKAGES & OFFERS Packages at The Manor House, between April and September, start at £239pp and include bed and breakfast in a Cosy room, a £32 per person allocation to use towards dinner at The Castle Inn, use of the driving range and 36 holes of the best golf in Wiltshire. Guests can upgrade to the Michelin starred Bybrook restaurant for just £43pp.
Combine luxurious accommodation with one of the UK’s most spectacular courses with a visit to the pretty village of Castle Combe, Wiltshire, to enjoy some indulgence and thrilling golf at The Manor House. The delightful championship-standard 18-hole course is immersed in the enchanting surroundings of the Cotswolds, with 365 acres of breathtaking rolling countryside as a backdrop, offering some of the most idyllic scenery which can be seen on an English golf course.
Designed by Peter Alliss and Clive Clark, the mature oak and beech trees that line the beautifully manicured fairways, together with the immaculate greens and the River Bybrook meandering through the middle, bring both drama and beauty to the 6,500yard parkland course, which is rightly considered one of the best in the South West. This, combined with the luxurious 14th-century stately hotel, which is home to a Michelin star restaurant, dedicated gin bar, and Castle Inn pub, serving delicious homemade food, which make up the estate, makes for a memorable golf break full of charm.
Packages at The Castle Inn for the same time period start at £169pp and include bed and breakfast in a Standard room, a £32 per person allocation to use towards dinner, use of the driving range and 36 holes of golf. Guests can again upgrade to the Michelin starred Bybrook restaurant at The Manor House for just £43pp.
FIND OUT MORE CLICK HERE
PACKAGES & OFFERS One night, two rounds, with dinner - £208 per person Two nights, two rounds with dinner on one evening – £251 per person Three nights, two rounds with dinner on two of the evenings – £319 per person *Prices based per person on double occupancy rooms.
KENT: NORTH FORELAND DB&B & 2 ROUNDS OF GOLF FROM £208PP East Kent’s North Foreland Golf Club has partnered with local four-star hotel, The Pegwell Bay, to bring you the ultimate UK golf staycation. Situated on the picturesque Kent coast in the Dickensian holiday town of Broadstairs, North Foreland is considered one of the best member clubs in the area and is one of the most highlyregarded seaside golf courses in the country with 36 stunning holes spread over two courses. The Main Course is renowned as a fantastic test
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*Inc. breakfast at The Pegwell Bay. *£25 allocation per person for dinner at The Pegwell Bay.
for all golfers with fast-running fairways and greens and coastal views that are among the best in England.
*Bespoke packages can be created based on different requirements to the above.
The Northcliffe Course is a unique 18-hole parthree layout - perfect for beginners, families and experienced players looking to hone their short game on holes that vary in distance from 50 to 140 yards. The golf course, hotel and clubhouse are all located on the clifftops of Kent, offering panoramic views of the sea and coastline, making for a fantastic break for any avid golfer.
*Extras such as the nine-hole Northcliffe Course, coaching, lunch or dinner in the club’s Lighthouse Brasserie can be added. *Terms and conditions apply.
FIND OUT MORE CLICK HERE
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TRAVEL WALES
MARRIOTT ST PIERRE 2 NIGHTS D, B&B, & 3 ROUNDS FROM £247PP
Marriott St Pierre is just over the old Severn Bridge at Chepstow, the Old course has hosted a number of high profile professional tournaments over the years and has an outstanding par 3 to finish that has ruined many a score card! Hotel on site so no driving and 2 really nice courses. VISIT WEBSITE
THE VALE RESORT 2 NIGHTS D, B&B, & 3 ROUNDS FROM £215PP The Vale Resort which is situated near Cardiff is the centre for everything sport in Wales. You will often see the Welsh National football / rugby teams training at The Vale. 2 excellent courses the National and The Lakes are on site so no driving required. In addition you have a superb range and plenty of other activities with gym / spa etc. VISIT WEBSITE
NEFYN & PWLLHEI 1 NIGHT B&B, & 2 ROUNDS FROM £149PP VISIT WEBSITE
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TRAVEL UK & IRELAND
ISLE OF WIGHT: 6 NIGHTS & 3 ROUNDS INC. RETURN FERRY FROM £449pp
Who has ever thought of the Isle of Wight for a Golf Break. Golf Tee Time Service have been organising Isle of Wight Golf Breaks now for a number of years and the client feedback is outstanding.
VISIT WEBSITE
Only a short ferry ride and you are good to go. We work with numerous accommodation providers and 3 courses.
REMEDY OAK
STONEHAM
PARKSTONE
FERNDOWN
DORSET: HEATHLAND TOUR REMEDY OAK, STONEHAM, PARKSTONE, FERNDOWN, BROADSTONE & ISLE OF PURBECK
6 NIGHTS B&B, & 6 ROUNDS FROM £1570PP Why not treat yourself and come and play some of the very best Dorset Heathland courses and stay at the four-star Hilton Bournemouth.
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TRAVEL FRANCE
NORMANDY: DINARD, VAL ANDRE & ST MALO 3 NIGHTS B&B & 3 ROUNDS FROM £380PP 4 people in a standard car • 3 nights in the Univers B&B • 3 rounds Dinard, Val Andre and St Malo • Return sailings from Plymouth to Roscoff
Sail from Plymouth overnight with a cabin and enjoy 3 nights in the Old Walled Town of St Malo, the Univers Hotel has the very best location and is in the heart of all the bars and restaurants.
• DINARD GOLF CLUB
The 3 courses selected are all a little different, Dinard is the 2nd oldest course in France and is situated 20 minutes from St Malo at St Briac sur Mer and has a real links feel. Pleneuf Val Andre is another 20 minutes drive from Dinard and is regularly ranked amongst France’s top 20 courses, the club has hosted a Challenge Tour event for many years and is a tough test in the wind. St Malo G&CC is a modern American style course which is 20 minutes from the hotel and another outstanding golf course. Your return sailing allows a free morning and you return in the afternoon from Roscoff to Plymouth.
• ST MALO GOLF CLUB
VISIT WEBSITE
• VAL ANDRE GOLF CLUB
BRITTANY: LA BAULE, LA BRETESCHE & ST JEAN DE MONTS 3 NIGHTS B&B & 3 ROUNDS FROM £475PP 4 people in a standard car • 3 nights Lucien Barriere La Baule Hotel Hermitage • 3 rounds La Baule, La Bretesche and St Jean de Monts • Return sailings from Plymouth to Roscoff • Price based on 4 in a car
VISIT WEBSITE
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SEVE COUNTRY YOUR GUIDE TO GOLF IN
Discover the natural splendour of northern Spain and some really memorable courses. This is Seve Ballesteros country, with his home course at Pedrena and his design input at Santa Maria to the west and Izki in La Rioja.
S
eve Ballesteros was a well known figure back home in Pedreña, a fishing village near Santander in northern Spain, where the local sporting passion was rowing.
His father was a talented oarsman but the Ballesteros family sport was golf. Actually it was the family business. His uncle, Ramón Sota, was an outstanding professional, good enough to play in the 1965 Masters and to finish sixth, while Seve's brothers, Vicente, Baldomero and Manuel, were all golf pros. Seve was the baby and it was Manuel who first cut down a three-iron and gave it to him as a toddler. The hours he then spent on the beach with this club, often hitting pebbles rather than balls, helped create the magical short game that would later propel him into a global golf star and in turn a legend of the game.
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EXPLORE THE REGIONS OF
NORTHERN SPAIN More and more Brits are discovering the natural splendour of Northern Spain and here you’ll find some memorable courses. This is Seve Ballesteros country, with his home course at Pedreña and his design input at Santa Maria to the west and Izki in La Rioja - in this region there are also courses at Logroño and Santo Domingo. To the west in Asturias, the courses at Llanes, Llorea, Castello and La Barganiza provide parkland settings with stunning backdrops.
CANTABRIA Cantabria is on the shores of the Cantabrian Sea. It is birthplace of one of the best golfers of all time, Severiano Ballesteros. Discover the place where this legend made his first strokes. It is not only on the green that you will have a great time. You can also discover a region of spectacular landscapes, with some of northern Spain's most beautiful beaches, and natural and cultural riches that will captivate your from the moment you arrive. There are many courses to choose from suitable for all levels: from courses that are a real challenge for professionals, to gentler ones, ideal for beginners. The majority have wonderful sea views, making the game even more attractive, if that is possible.
LA RIOJA La Rioja is Spain’s smallest region. However, it is not easy to find in such small area — just over five thousand square kilometres — such a diversity of landscapes, art, history and traditions. This land has earned worldwide fame thanks to one of its products, whose finely crafted quality has achieved universal renown —wine.
ASTURIAS
PAIS VASCO
Between the Cantabrian sea and the spectacular Picos de Europa National Park, you will find Asturias.
The Basque Country offers you eleven first-class courses where you can have fun, improve your strokes or even learn how to play golf from scratch, all against a backdrop of sea views, or while enjoying the unique natural attractions of Green Spain.
This region offers a host of attractions and things to do, one of which is golf. Clustered around a small number of towns and villages there are many different courses to be found. More and more people are coming to Asturias to play golf every year. In addition to the varied, spectacular landscapes of the region, there are other attractive factors, such as the proximity of the different courses, the good communications between Oviedo and Gijón, where most of the clubs are to be found.
The Basque Country is synonymous with culture, among other things thanks to the avant-garde Guggenheim Bilbao museum and to the San Sebastián International Film Festival, and to its natural attractions, with its peaceful beach and the lush forests of Green Spain. Two additional reasons why this region is a choice destination for golfers.
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CANTABRIA
REAL CLUB DE GOLF PEDRENA
Pedrena
This course was designed by Harry Colt and enjoys a spectacular location on a small peninsula jutting into the Bay of Santander. It is also where Seve Ballesteros learnt to hone his remarkable skills and is in fact a wonderful experience and a treat not to be missed!
GOLF SANTA MARINA La Revilla Designed by Seve Ballesteros, this is an absolute stunner of a course.
It is by no means a long course but is definitely a difficult, testing one. Quite hilly with an abundance of trees and rough, every golfer will enjoy the challenge on what is one of the top quality courses in this region.
OUR OPINION:
A must if you are a Seve fan - this is where it all started.
Sandwiched between the sea and mountains, it is pretty tough but hugely enjoyable. With elevated tees, loads of water and plenty of tricky dog-legs to negotiate, you should enjoy the challenge. And, however many balls you’ve lost, you’ll also enjoy
OUR OPINION:
A great course with a spectacular 18th. Anyone hitting the green in 3 has done well.
CLUB DE GOLF MUNICIPAL Llanes This is a cliff- top course with views all round that are absolutely breathtaking and worth the absurdly modest green fee on their own. Maintained in great condition this is a genuine gem of a course.
OUR OPINION:
A ‘must play’ when in the area - the additional 9 holes designed by Manuel Pinero are superb.
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PAIS VASCO
LAUKARIZ COUNTRY CLUB Bilbao Laukariz Country Club was established in the mid – 1970’s with a wide range of facilities including swimming, tennis and golf. The 18 hole course was designed by American Robert Putman who was also responsible for the North and South courses at La Manga. The club added a further 9 holes in 2005 and now boasts an excellent 27 holes complex. The surroundings are very attractive and this is a pleasant course to play, although we would recommend a buggy.
OUR OPINION:
A good layout and complex.
REAL GOLF CLUB DE GOLF DE SAN SEBASTIAN Pais Vasco Real Golf Club de Golf de San Sebastian was founded in 1910 and moved to its present location in the mid 1960’s. The course enjoys some fantastic views of the Basque Pyrenees and has a number of feature holes such as 6th and 10th par 4’s both played uphill. The club boasts a major Champion as a member in twice Masters Winner Jose Maria Olazabal who won in 1994 and 1999.
OUR OPINION:
A must play if you get the chance.
REAL SOCIEDAD DE GOLF DE NEGURI Getxo, Punta Galea
Neguri, or Real Sociedad de Golf de Neguri to give the club its full title was founded back in 1911, then 45 years later it moved to the current location north west of Bilbao. The course is laid out with 2 loops of 9 holes both returning to the clubhouse. Javier Arana a member designed the course which can be stretched to 6900 yards; the club have hosted several prestigious amateur events and the 1968 Spanish Open.
OUR OPINION:
Limited access as the club is very private however a true test.
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ASTURIAS REAL CLUB DE GOLF CASTIELLO Gijón Nearly 60 years old, this magnificent parkland course has a genuinely natural feel and, originally only nine holes, it was enlarged to 18 just over a quarter of a century ago. Although it received its ‘Royal’ tag in 2001, Real Castiello. is not in the least bit snooty and is thoroughly welcoming to visitors who can also use the lovely old clubhouse and outdoor pool.
OUR OPINION:
A genuine royal club although very quiet and understated.
CLUB DE GOLF LA BARGANIZA
CLUB DE GOLF MUNICIPAL
Oviedo
Llanes
This exclusive course was designed by Victor Garcia in 1982 and is maintained to the highest possible standards.
This is a cliff- top course with views all round that are absolutely breathtaking and worth the absurdly modest green fee on their own.
Although it’s not a long course, accuracy is the main requirement as each fairway is tree-lined. The clubhouse is very palatial and, the best part of all, there is a superb terrace on which to enjoy a drink and compare games. Minimum handicap required 27.5 for men and 35.5 for ladies.
Maintained in great condition this is a genuine gem of a course.
OUR OPINION:
A ‘must play’ when in the area the additional 9 holes designed by Manuel Pinero are superb.
OUR OPINION:
Really worth a visit. Very exclusive and in great condition.
CLUB DE GOLF LA LLOREA Gijón Attached to the comfortable 4* Palacio de la Llorea Hotel, this delightful parkland test is fairly open. Since it is only 13 years old, the trees that separate the holes are still rather immature and don’t therefore punish wayward shots. The back nine is more challenging with plenty of elevation and more exacting holes, plus the added attraction of splendid sea views.
OUR OPINION: A very busy club with a good course.
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LA RIOJA
GOLF RIOJA ALTA La Rioja
IZKI GOLF
Urturi, Álava Another Seve Ballesteros gem, this superb mountain-top course has an almost heathland feel to it with loads of heather and trees. It was the first public course to be built in Spain and it’s doubtful that there is a better one anywhere in the country. With masses of space to work with, the holes are well spread out and, as one would expect from a course so high up in the mountains, the views are wonderful.
OUR OPINION:
Highly recommended. The course is superb and the drive is breathtaking.
Wrapped around a preserved forest full of 200-year-old oak trees, the course first plunges downhill, then winds back up before entering the forest at the turn from where you don’t emerge until you walk off the 18th and into the magnificent clubhouse. Mounding on both sides of some of the fairways has contributed to what is undoubtedly a challenging layout and water is a factor on every hole from the eighth to the 15th. With loads of elevation, great scenery and generous fairways, there’s more than enough here to keep any golfer happy.
OUR OPINION: Although new, the course is maturing well and is worth a visit.
GOLF MUNICIPAL Logroño
Another glorious course that really seems too good to be municipal. It climbs up a couple of imposing hills and has a welcome feel of spaciousness. Although there really is masses of room, there’s also plenty of inhospitable, wildflowered wilderness to ensure that you don’t relax too much. Both the fairways and greens are well looked after and you might well walk off this top quality course wondering why municipal golf in Britain rarely attains the same standard.
OUR OPINION:
A certain ‘must play’. Unbelievable!
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GOLF BREAKS On your journey to your golf break in Spain you will enjoy a true overnight cruise-ferry experience, with great value shopping, fine dining, entertainment and comfortable cabins. You'll arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy the golf.
These itineraries provide a variety of golf all within an easy drive from our arrival ports. They are just examples, and we are happy to tailor an itinerary to suit your requirements.
CANTABRIA
LA RIOJA
ASTURIAS
from only £442 per person
from only £404 per person
from only £523 per person
2 NIGHT ON BOARD, 3 NIGHTS B&B AND 3 ROUNDS
2 NIGHT ON BOARD, 4 NIGHTS B&B AND 3 ROUNDS
2 NIGHT ON BOARD, 5 NIGHTS B&B AND 3 ROUNDS
Sail from Plymouth to Santander with cabin included.
Sail from Portsmouth to Santander with cabin included.
Sail from Plymouth to Santander with cabin included.
Stay 3 nights at Hotel Mirador de la Franca.
Stay 4 nights at Hotel Villa de Laguardia.
Stay 5 nights at Hotel Abba Play de Gijón .
Play at Santa Marina, Pedrena and Llanes.
Play at Rioja Alta, Logrono and Izki Uturi.
Play at Castiello, Llorea and Barganiza.
Sail back from Plymouth from Santander.
Sail back from Santander to Portsmouth.
Sail back from Santander to Portsmouth.
VIEW PACKAGE
VIEW PACKAGE
VIEW PACKAGE
Prices shown are per person based on 4 travelling together in a standard car, sharing a cabin and twin rooms. All subject to availability. Insurance not included. Terms and Conditions apply.
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Northern Spain Golf Tournament 12–16 SEPTEMBER 2021
Sail overnight Monday from Plymouth to Santander with cabin included Stay 2 nights at Hotel Mirador de la Franca and play 3 rounds at Santa Marina, Pedrena and Llanes Sail to Plymouth from Santander on Wednesday evening with cabin included
2 days of golf for just
£589 Join us for the Northern Spain Golf Tournament Spend 2 days experiencing some of the best courses in northern Spain. After a fantastic day of playing golf, relax in the comfortable hotel, in the coastal city of Gijón in beautiful Asturias.
pp
Your northern Spain break includes: • Return sailing from Plymouth to Santander with your car • 2 tournament rounds of golf – courses TBC • 3 nights B&B with twin room at Hotel abba Playa, Gijón
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Price includes return ferry to/from Spain with large 2-berth inside cabin each way per couple, 3 nights B&B in twin room, 2 tournament rounds of golf – courses TBC, and prize table. Terms & conditions apply.
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COMPETITION
WIN A GOLF BREAK FOR TWO AT PENHA LONGA
Here’s your chance to win a superb luxury golf break to Penha Longa Resort in Portugal. Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Sintra Mountains and enjoy elegant accommodation, world-class restaurants, championship golf course and the luxurious spa & wellness centre. PRIZE: 1 voucher for 2 nights double accommodation with a breakfast buffet at Penha Longa Resort in Portugal. This prize also includes 2 greens fees and golf equipment.
Golf break to be taken by end of March, 2022
– the voucher for this golf break will not be valid during the following periods: July and August, 2021 or Christmas and New Year. Stay is subject to hotel availability.
HOW TO ENTER
SIMPLY CLICK BELOW TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND COMPLETE THE ENTRY FORM. WINNER WILL BE DRAWN FROM ALL ENTRIES ON MAY 14th, 2021 AND PUBLISHED ON OUR WEBSITE.
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By entering this competition you also register to receive regular updates and future editions from Exclusive Golf & TravelOLFANDTR and selectedAVEL partners. E XCLUSIVEG .CO.UK
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PORTUGAL
PENHA LONGA RESORT
S
et among rolling hills of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park (UNESCO cultural heritage), lush gardens and serene mountain lakes, Penha Longa Resort, one of the most stunning luxury resorts in Portugal, offers a rare opportunity to visitors to explore the breathtaking beauty of the Sintra Mountains and enjoy elegant accommodation, world-class restaurants, Championship Golf course, luxurious spa and wellness centre. A getaway in a stunning retreat enjoyed by royalty since the XIV century. At this luxury resort, every little detail has been considered for every type of guest and stay, the luxury can be enjoyed in a wide variety of ways, turning every experience into a unique moment. The Resort has taken 2020 as an opportunity to invest in the product and enhance their guest experience. One of the highlights is the inauguration of two new suites, enriching the luxury resort accommodation that will now have a total of 196 rooms and suites.
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Sintra and Cascais Suites are the newest addition to the room portfolio, with breathtaking views overlooking the mountains and the XIV century Monastery. These new suites will set new standards for the future of the hotel. There are two courses at Penha Longa, the true championship standard Atlântico, and the excellent 9-hole Mosteiro. The Atlântico, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jnr, opened in 1992 and received such acclaim that it played host to the Portuguese Open in 1994. This course is now getting a face-lift to present players with a more modern look without changing the courses game strategy and mystic. Reworking bunkers around the course is already underway, the team are also focusing on safety and the experience of visiting players. While this project is ongoing, Penha Longa’s expectation is also to improve the sand quality, drainage and maintenance. ISSUE 16
• The new Executive Suite.
• Deluxe room with a view.
The resort’s food & beverage have been highly investing for the last couple of years after receiving their the first Michelin Star won by LAB by Sergi Arola in 2016, which offers a highly innovative gastronomic journey, the Japanese gourmet Midori followed in 2018 with its first Michelin Star. In late 2020, the Eneko Lisboa was also awarded its first star from the famous French guide, offering unique flavours of the Basque cuisine with traditional and innovative touches; making the Resort the only one proposing three restaurants with a Michelin Star in Portugal. An assumedly gastro-resort, Penha Longa is a veritable paradise for foodies, affording different culinary experiences at its nine food outlets with distinct cuisines. Opened more than 25 years ago, Penha Longa adapts and reinvents itself year after year; offering versatile and flexible stays for different guests.
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GREECE
COSTA NAVARINO Olazábal’s eagerly awaited masterpieces soon to be open for UK golfers
T
he countdown for the opening of Europe’s most eagerly-awaited new 36-hole golfdesign project at Navarino Hills, part of Costa Navarino in Greece has begun. With less than a year until it fully opens to the public, Navarino Hills has already been named as the ‘World’s Best New Golf Development’ at the 2020 World Golf Awards, with two-time Masters champion and Ryder Cup legend José María Olazábal leading the design of the two new layouts, which will increase the overall golf offering of the destination to an incredible four courses. Stretching over 500 hectares of rugged natural terrain and overlooking the historic Navarino Bay, Navarino Hills will provide the ideal complement to Costa Navarino’s two signature golf courses, The Dunes Course (designed by Bernhard Langer in association with European Tour Design) and The Bay Course (created by Robert Trent Jones II). Olazábal has inherited an incredible canvas on
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which to pen his two courses, with Navarino Hills’ location benefitting from sea, mountain and valley views, thus enriching hole designs and backdrops. Golfers will experience panoramic vistas of the fertile Messinian landscape, dotted with olive groves, fragrant citrus orchards, rosemary and lavender scrubs, the mountains, local villages and the sapphire-blue Ionian Sea. While many golf-course developments have ground to a halt with the global pandemic, the opposite has been the case at Costa Navarino. The West Course is set for a soft opening this autumn, with the opportunity to play for the first time at the fifth Messinia Pro-Am, followed by a full launch of both courses in Spring 2022, which will elevate Costa Navarino as one of Europe’s most desirable golf destinations. The two courses, will be offering very different playing experiences. ISSUE 16
• An overview of the stunning Navarino Hills layout.
Olazábal explained: “The West Course is closer to the cliffs so it’s going to be windier and more demanding. The wind is always going to be a factor and it’s going to be a little bit tougher. On the East Course, you are protected from the wind and you are going to have more of a treelined golf course, with forest and mountains in the background. I think it’s going to be ideal for anybody who wants to come and play at Costa Navarino for a few days and enjoy a different feeling and a different view when they are playing.” As part of the new development launch, golfers can look forward to a new clubhouse designed by acclaimed architect Lubomír Zeman as well as additional tourism and recreational facilities dedicated to wellness and countryside activities. Until next year however, there is plenty to experience away from the fairways, as the destination includes two five-star deluxe hotels - The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino and The ISSUE 16
• The new Navarino Hills Clubhouse render.
Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, Costa Navarino, a 4,000m2 spa and thalassotherapy centre, more than 20 fine-dining venues and a wide range of year-round sports and cultural activities.
• The Bay Course.
With the promise of award-winning golf, blue skies, and a sumptuous coastal setting, Costa Navarino is an ideal all-year-round destination. Visiting from the UK has never been easier, with new direct flight routes to Kalamata airport, operating from Birmingham and Bristol this summer in addition to London and Manchester flights.
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MALLORCA
SHINING A LIGHT ON
ALCANADA
• A towering presence: Alcanada’s iconic lighthouse. 68
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I
n the north of Mallorca, there’s a lightbulb moment waiting for visiting golfers.
At Club de Golf Alcanada near Alcudia, a mid-19th century lighthouse stands proud. It offers the kind of views which turn a fine golf course into a truly memorable experience. Arguably, the best view is from the elevated 13th tee, where you hit down and towards the Bay of Alcudia with the towering structure away in the distance. But fantastic views are never far away at Alcanada with so many wow holes to enjoy with elevated tee shots and plenty of strategy and accuracy required to think your way around the course. Owned by Hans Peter Porsche, the club is a Robert Trent Jones Jr-designed layout and there has been significant investment in recent times, thanks to a €700,000 renovation, which saw all 18 greens replaced two years ago.
• Golf with a view: The 7th hole at Alcanada (above) and the 5th green (below).
Since the course opened in 2003, Alcanada has established itself as a top European golf destination and hosted the European Challenge Tour final in 2019 and will also host the PGA EuroPro Tour final later this year. But alongside the course, the whole experience surpasses expectation with a relaxed vibe that runs through the fabric at Alcanada – a club that knows its roots but has added a modern touch in all the right places. There are some nice extra touches too. The Lighthouse Bar allows golfers to enjoy a mid-round break for a chilled glass of something and a light snack, while the tradition and history are epitomised in the centuries-old Mallorca clubhouse – a 19th hole brimming with style. The inviting sun terrace is the ideal spot to catch a few rays, enjoy some liquid refreshment and drink in those views all over again after the round. Located around 45 minutes drive from Palma airport, the north of Mallorca remains relatively unspoilt in contrast to some of the mass tourism areas in other parts of the island. It’s well worth the trip.
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GOLF PACKAGE: 5 NIGHTS & 3 ROUNDS PRICES FROM €1050pp Enjoy three rounds at Alcanada and a five-night, half-board stay in a superior room at the nearby VIVA Golf hotel in Puerto de Alcúdia: https://www.hotelsviva.com/ en/adults-only-hotel-vivagolf/, starting from €1050pp (based on two sharing). Contact: info.golf@ hotelsviva.com
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SPAIN
LAS COLINAS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB A
fter significant progress and investment last year, 2021 is shaping up to be a year to remember at Las Colinas Golf & Country Club, with the Spanish resort focused on its continuous mission to improve all areas of service and to maintain its exceptional track record for customer satisfaction. A four-time winner of “Spain’s Best Golf Course” at the World Golf Awards, Las Colinas Golf & Country Club already enjoys a reputation as one of Europe’s premier golf residential and real estate destinations and was enhanced further in 2020 with a number of new projects – including the launch of new restaurant il Palco. The new culinary offering celebrates the essence of traditional Italian cuisine. To enhance the dining experience, the restaurant’s interior has been given an elegant makeover by Pepe Leal, one of Spain’s leading interior designers. Nestling in a 330-hectare valley south of Alicante, Las Colinas Golf & Country Club has made a name
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for itself as one of the continent’s most soughtafter golfing destinations. A resort that is about far more than just golf, it has built a prestigious reputation as a low density, high-quality residential venue that promotes and cares about its natural environment, and it was named “Europe’s Leading Resort Villas” and “Spain’s Leading Villa Resort” at the 2020’s World Travel Awards and “Best Iberian Golf Resort” in 2020’s Luxlife Travel & Tourism Awards. Following an extended period of lockdowns, spending time outdoors and living a healthy lifestyle in an eco-friendly environment has never been valued higher. And Las Colinas Golf & Country Club offers the perfect solution to golfers, couples and families seeking time away in natural surroundings – either on a short or extended residential stay-and-play break or as a second home. At the heart of the resort is its 18-hole golf course which ranks among Europe’s top 100 courses and is a regular host of Stage 2 of the European Tour Qualifying School. Designed by acclaimed
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American architect Cabell B. Robinson, the width of the layout’s fairways, the design of its extensive undulating greens and the numerous tees at each hole give the course great versatility. Suitable for professional competitions, it is also ideal for players of all abilities to experience a pleasant, enjoyable and affordable game. Complementing the golf course is a golf academy featuring a short-game area designed by 21-time European Tour winner Miguel Angel Jiménez. A wealth of five-star sports and lifestyle facilities are available to owners and guests including a tennis and padel academy, Las Colinas Sports & Health Club, the beach club, a mini-market and a choice of dining options, while a variety of resort day experiences can also be booked including yachting, diving, hot-air balloon rides and wine tours. Las Colinas Golf & Country Club offers a wide selection of villas, apartments and penthouses available for short residential packages or to buy, and the properties for sale include a range of homes or plots of land so people can build their own bespoke villa. Each house has been designed to respect the environment, quality and privacy, and to overlook the golf course or Mediterranean woodland, with the rooms in all of them looking outwards through terraces and porches to make them light and spacious. Just a 50-minute drive from Alicante airport and even less from Murcia’s new airport, Las Colinas Golf & Country Club is easily accessed from UK while the resort also offers the ideal base to explore the Costa Blanca’s many beaches and historic towns. Golfers can enjoy their favourite passion at Las Colinas Golf & Country Club while also trying their hand at padel, an adapted version of tennis that is growing in popularity across Europe. Seven-night golf and padel packages with accommodation at the Las Colinas Residences (including four rounds of golf per person and four hours’ paddle tennis court rental) are available for €643 per person. www.aworldapart.es
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EQUIPMENT THE ‘ X ’
D R A W R O F ROLLS Originally launched to critical acclaim as the X1 Remote in 2003, the company has constantly evolved the product, with X3, X5 and X7 models before the groundbreaking X9 Follow was released in 2014.
Stewart Golf has announced that its iconic X Series has undergone some significant ‘under the skin’ improvements and will be now be badged as the X10.
Managing Director David Funnell said, “As a company lead by engineers, it’s in our DNA to constantly develop and improve our machines. The X Series has been a fixture of our product range since day one and it remains integral to the business.” The X10 will be available in Follow and Remote versions. Both benefit from the same EcoDrive motor technology that was launched with the Q Follow, meaning they are up to 40% more efficient than the outgoing version. This means that the X10 battery will give users 40% more golf than previous versions for each charge. In addition the X10 benefits from the latest electronics system that is now manufactured in Great Britain after being ‘re-shored’ from Europe last year. The X10 Follow features the latest seventh generation of Stewart Golf’s proprietary Follow system, featuring dedicated electronic calibration which results in the most accurate and reliable Follow experience to date. CEO Mark Stewart added, “Even after a very successful launch of the Q Follow, sales of the X Series have remained very high. “In the refreshed X Series and new Q Series electric models, sitiing alongside the R Series Push, Stewart Golf has a strong product line up for 2021 and beyond.”
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EQUIPMENT- LASERS
BUSHNELL UNVEILS NEW V5 SLIM LASERS B
ushnell Outdoor Products, makers of the #1 laser rangefinder on the PGA Tour, have released the latest addition to their innovative line up – the V5 Tour Slim Edition and the V5 Shift Slim Edition.
By moving the battery housing to the back of the unit and slimming down the outer casing Bushnell have produced an ergonomically designed laser that fits snugly into the palm of the hand creating the minimum of interference when acquiring a target. “Golfers look to us to provide the most accurate distance readings on the course” said Andrew Grose, Managing Director, YUMAX Golf. “Bushnell are constantly innovating and developing new technologies, and their BITE magnetic cart mount and Visual JOLT technologies remain industry leaders in their field. Making a relatively small physical change has allowed us to go one step further in making a laser that can be held steady by all users, in all conditions for even greater confidence when out on the course”. V5 Slim Edition models continue Bushnell’s tradition of setting new standards in the industry through constant innovation and the incorporation of leading technologies. The perfect combination of size, speed, accuracy and Visual JOLT, the V5 Slim Edition rangefinders are designed to create confidence for every shot needed in the round. V5 Slim Edition rangefinders feature “BITE” technology, designed to securely attach a unit to a golf cart and with a pull strength of 7lbs golfers can be assured their rangefinder will stay putt! JOLT now features PinSeeker with Visual JOLT Technology - a red ring flashes as JOLT vibrates to give the golfer even greater feedback and confidence to know they have locked onto the flag.
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EQUIPMENT- LASERS V5 Shift Slim Edition / V5 Tour Slim Edition features:
Use of distancemeasuring devices is ‘long overdue’ says Simon Dyson The use of distance measuring devices will be allowed during competition rounds at the PGA majors in America this year across their three tours. The move has been welcomed by six times European Tour winner Simon Dyson. Dyson said: “‘It’s great to see the PGA of America at the forefront on this, I think it’s a really positive move by them, long overdue and it is great to see them trying something new.” Said Jim Richerson, president of the PGA of America: “We’re always interested in methods that may help improve the flow of play during our Championships. “The use of distance-measuring devices is already common within the game and is now a part of the Rules of Golf. “Players and caddies have long used them during practice rounds to gather relevant yardages.” This policy will debut with the 2021 PGA Championship over The Ocean Course in Kiawah Island, South Carolina, from May 17-23. If the devices are to be allowed in all four main men’s majors – adding the Masters, The Open Championship and the US Open – this will involve input from the European Tour and the PGA Tour in America and rulings from the R&A and the United States Golf Association.
• Ergonomically designed outer casing fits snugly into the hand • New, improved slope algorithm (Tour V5 Shift only) • Slope-Switch Technology (Tour V5 Shift only) • PinSeeker with Visual JOLT Technology
• 6x magnification • Bright, clear optics • Fast Focus System • Rain proof • Premium carry case and three-volt battery included • Two-year warranty
• Built-in BITE Magnetic Cart Mount
• Two complimentary ball markers
• Accurate to within one yard
COSTS: V5 Tour Slim RRP: £299 V5 Shift Slim RRP: £359
• Up to 1,300-yard range performance (400+ yards to a flag)
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Each tour and governing body will make their own decision as they deem appropriate. Dyson added: “It’s great to see them trying something new, even if it’s just a trial period to see how it goes. At the end of the day, you will never know unless you trial it. There’s so much made about slow play and how to solve that issue, this just makes life a lot easier.” Dyson says the groundbreaking move by the US PGA won’t detract from the role of the caddy during tournaments. He added: “It will only go to enhance their role and enable decision making to be a faster and more precise process as well as speeding up play.
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EQUIPMENT - BALLS
PUSH YOUR GAME TO
NEW LIMITS WITH THE
S
rixon have pushed the boundaries of golf ball technology yet again with the launch of their seventh generation of the Z-STAR Series golf ball.
new generation features a reformulated inner core to add even more distance.
The seventh-generation Z-STAR features a 0.6mm cover that is thicker than previous generations for enhanced spin and control around the greens.
The new Z-STAR produces the highest green-side spin of any ball in Srixon’s line-up, thanks to its super soft urethane cover and Spin Skin coating.
When paired with the revolutionary FastLayer Core that dramatically increases ball speed to deliver maximum distance, the new generation offers unparalleled feel.
The new Z-STAR XV features a reformulated inner core for heightened resilience, leading to improved ball speed and distance without sacrificing feel. This allows players to push their distance to the limit and take advantage of high levels of greenside control.
The new Z-STAR and Z-STAR XV golf balls are specifically designed for better players and they feature advanced technology to add performance from tee to green. The Z-STAR XV is played by some of the longest hitters on professional Tours around the world, and this 76
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Both the new golf balls feature new Spin Skin technology with SlideRing Material (SeRM), a urethane compound that coats the cover of every Z-STAR Series golf ball.
By taking unprecedented levels of shearing force without breaking its molecular bonds, Spin Skin with SeRM is able to dig deep into your wedge and iron grooves, dramatically increasing friction and maximizing spin for more control and more stopping power on every shot. The all-new Z-STAR Series golf balls are the only golf ball in the world to use Slide-Ring Material, providing a competitive advantage that cannot be matched. The 338 Speed Dimple Pattern on each Z-STAR Series golf ball improves overall aerodynamics for better flight performance, even in the toughest wind conditions, with drivers, woods, and irons. Srixon’s Z-STAR and Z-STAR XV are available in Pure White and Tour Yellow.
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EQUIPMENT - BALLS
If you demand the absolute best performance, the new Z-STAR and Z-STAR XV are made for you . . .
Maximize your greenside spin and enjoy ample distance performance, all with an exceptionally soft feel. Choose Z-STAR if finesse around the greens and pinpoint approach shots are your keys to record low scores.
Push your distance to the limit and enjoy plenty of greenside control with the most powerful ball in Srixon’s lineup. If all your birdies start with a stratospheric tee shot, then Z-STAR XV is built for you.
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NEW FOR 2021
COMPARE PERFORMANCE
Z-STAR’s urethane cover is now 0.6mm thick – that’s 0.1mm thicker than previous generations - for even more spin and control around the greens.
FEEL: Softer DISTANCE: Long FLIGHT: Mid CONSTRUCTION: 3PC Urethane GREENSIDE SPIN: Highest DRIVER SPIN: Low
NEW FOR 2021
COMPARE PERFORMANCE
Srixon have reformulated Z-STAR XV’s inner core to makie it more resilient, improving ball speed and distance without losing feel.
FEEL: Soft DISTANCE: Longer FLIGHT: Mid-High CONSTRUCTION: 4PC Urethane GREENSIDE SPIN: High DRIVER SPIN: Low
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE
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TRIED & TESTED - SRIXON Z-STAR
Mike Browne is a serial winner of national championships all over the continent on the European Disabled Golf Association circuit.
AS SOON AS I STARTED HITTING THE NEW SRIXON 2021 BALLS I INSTANTLY FELT I COULD PUT THEM STRAIGHT IN MY BAG.
We asked Mike to put the new Srixon Z-Star through its paces and to give us some feedback . . .
I
n my opinion, both the 2021 Z-Star and Z-Star XV balls perform amazingly, although after testing have steered towards the Z-Star XV as personal preference.
the reverse is true. It has a harder compression so it is meant to be hit harder by players with a faster swing speed and better timing.
I my
To achieve consistency I always use the same ball for all tournaments whatever the conditions and for all my practice sessions, whether on the course or on the practice ground.
I would strongly suggest that if you are a mid to high handicapper, then you will benefit from using the Z-Star. The Z-Star has a softer compression which means you do not have to hit it so hard to make the ball work for you. Better players will opt for the Z-Star XV. For them
Before making my decision whether to switch to Srixon, On testing I took into account all areas of my game and how the balls performed . . .
WEDGES:
IRONS:
PUTTER:
From 100 yards out, both balls impressed me with the flight and their consistency of yardage.
This is where the Z-Star XV grabbed my attention. After hitting 20 shots with both versions of ball I noticed I had gained 8 yards carry distance with the Z-Star XV compared to the standard Z-Star.
With the putter, there is a big difference in feel between the Z-Star XV and the Z-Star.
On shots into the green from this distance the Z-Star stopped on a dime where as the Z-Star XV took one bounce and stopped. Both balls are really controllable and from this distance the standard Z-Star stood out for me because of its soft feel and the high level of control I felt I had.
I was impressed by the level of shot shaping I was able to create with both balls, but for me the Z-Star XV led the way and felt ‘butter smooth’ but so powerful off the club face.
It could be down to different compression ratings, the Z-Star XV has a compression of 102 and Z-Star comes in at 90. I felt the difference even more on the green. The Z-Star was really soft off the face and the Z-Star XV popped off the face a lot faster which gave the ball more roll.
DRIVER: This was the one I was waiting for . . . my driver game is in very good shape, so to make a difference here the Z-Star was going to have to perform. I wasn’t disappointed! Looking at the numbers of the Z-Star XV, it was easy to see that the technology which went into the new Z Star really delivered exactly how Srixon claimed it would.
The consistent flight of both balls was very impressive but for me the Z-Star XV stood out when compared against my current playing ball. I gained 5mph of ball speed which led to an average increase of 10 yards carry. I was able to control shot shapes with ease. On the spin front from the tee the Z-Star XV instantly filled me with confidence and delivered with every tee shot.
VERDICT: BOTH BALLS REALLY IMPRESSED ME. THE GAINS IN BALLS SPEED, YARDAGE AND CONSISTENCY MAKE THE Z-STAR XV A WINNER FOR ME AND IT IS NOW IN MY BAG READY FOR COMPETITIVE PLAY THIS SEASON.
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EQUIPMENT - FOOTWEAR
GAME
CHANGERS The 2021 Skechers GO GOLF footwear collection delivers game-changing performance technology, exciting new designs, and ultimate comfort for men, women and juniors. The line features innovations and designs inspired by the brand’s award-winning running and lifestyle divisions, and was developed with crucial insight and feedback from a roster of Skechers Performance tour pros including Matt Kuchar, Brooke Henderson, Colin Montgomerie and Billy Andrade. At the core of the 2021 range are Skechers’ proven technologies and materials that deliver traction and comfort through 18-holes and beyond to help every golfer unleash their true potential.
SKECHERS GO GOLF TORQUE PRO
Styles are designed with Skechers ULTRA GO and ULTRA FLIGHT mid-sole technologies, a lightweight, responsive cushioning that was first developed for the brand’s award-winning GO RUN collection. A key innovation for 2021 is the introduction of Skechers Arch Fit technology to its golf line – an insole system developed with over 20 years of data and 120,000 unweighted foot scans to provide podiatrist-certified arch support. First launched in Skechers sport and performance walking styles, the popular Arch Fit insole is designed to mold to your foot, reduce shock and increase weight dispersion. The addition of the technology in four Skechers GO GOLF styles, two for men and two for women, will provide enhanced arch support for long-lasting comfort on the course.
New for 2021, The Torque Pro offers undeniable value with a full-grain leather and synthetic upper complete with Skechers Waterproof Membrane Protection and a dynamic diamond traction plate with replaceable Softspikes* to ensure maximum grip. In-shoe comfort is enhanced through a responsive ULTRA GO midsole and a Skechers GOGA MAX insole for high-rebound cushioning. The spiked golf shoe is available in medium and extra wide widths in black/red, gray/red, white/navy and standard widths in black/gray. RRP - £99
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EQUIPMENT - FOOTWEAR SKECHERS GO GOLF ARCH FIT LINE UP Skechers GO GOLF Arch Fit footwear combines performance golf features with podiatrist-certified arch support. Pairs are designed with a water-repellent upper and a Goodyear®** Performance Outsole for enhanced traction, stability and durability. Skechers GO GOLF Arch Fit – Line Up is a sporty lace-up available in black/white and grey. SKECHERS GO GOLF ARCH FIT – FRONT NINE A convenient and durable hook-and-loop closure system for a personalized fit in black/grey and white/navy. RRP - £89
LADIES SKECHERS GO GOLF ELITE 3 TWIST Skechers GO GOLF Elite 3 Twist swaps traditional laces for a convenient Twist Fit alternative dial closure system to help you get the perfect fit. A spikeless, durable grip TPU outsole and low-drop design provide a stable platform alongside Skechers’ renowned comfort features. The water-repellent style is available in white and black. RRP – £99
SKECHERS PRO 4 LEGACY The next generation Pro 4 Legacy is the ideal wet weather golf shoe featuring full grain and synthetic upper and Skechers Waterproof Membrane Protection. A dynamic diamond traction sole plate with replaceable Softspikes ensures maximum grip and in shoe comfort comes from Skechers high performance Resamax cushioned insole and lightweight responsive ULTRA GO cushioning. A spiked golf shoe that is available in White/ navy, grey/lime and black red. RRP - £119
LADIES SKECHERS GO GOLF TROPICS COLLECTION. Performance and fashion meet on the course in the Skechers GO GOLF Tropics collection. The fun and unique capsule brings an island vibe with a vibrant print to some signature Skechers golf styles for women, including the Skechers GO GOLF Pivot Tropics. The women’s golf shoe is designed with a leather and synthetic water-repellent upper with tropical print detailing and a complimentary coloured spikeless TPU outsole. A Skechers GOGA MAX insole and lightweight ULTRA GO cushioning provide plenty of comfort and response. RRP - £89
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE COMPLETE COLLECTIONS ISSUE 16
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BUILD A BAG TO SUIT YOUR HANDICAP?
Having reviewed most of the new clubs to hit the market in 2021, Dan Hendriksen gives you his recommendations of the best new equipment this year to suit your handicap and to get the most from your game.
DRIVERS FAIRWAYS HYBRIDS IRONS WEDGES PUTTERS BALLS
HIGH HANDICAP
MID HANDICAP
Srixon ZX5
PING G425 Max
PING G425 Max
MID CALLAWAY Epic Speed
WILSON D9
COBRA Radspeed
LOW HANDICAP
MID
Cobra Radspeed
TITLEIST TSi3
MID
SRIXON ZX Utility
MID
WILSON CB
LOW
LOW
LOW
LOW
PING G425
TITLEIST T300
CLEVELAND CBX2
MID TAYLORMADE High Toe
TITLEIST Vokey SM8
TAYLORMADE Spider
ODYSSEY 2 Ball
SCOTTY CAMERON Newport
SRIXON AD333
CALLAWAY Chrome Soft
TITLEIST Pro V1
LOW
VIEW MORE FROM DAN ON YOUTUBE Professional Golfer, Videographer and Influencer Dan Hendriksen is a lover of Golf. View reviews of the products above and much more, plus tuition, interviews and Dan’s superb and unique course and travel showcases on his YouTube channel. Dan and his team have, in a shortspace of time, built a strong reputation for some of the best golf course reviews and vlogs on Youtube.
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D R I V E R S • FA I R WAY W O O D S • H Y B R I D S • I R O N S • W E D G E S • P U T T E R S
GEAR GUIDE 2021 YOUR GUIDE TO THE NEWEST AND BEST SELLING GOLF EQUIPMENT THIS YEAR ISSUE 16
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Take your game to new levels this season with the best equipment from Clubhouse Golf, the largest and most trusted independent golf retailer in the UK!
We are passionate about the game as we don't just sell golf products, we also live golf! With over 30 years experience in golf retail we have established ourselves as one of the most trusted companies both online and on the high street. Our success is down to providing total commitment and dedication to all our customers giving them 100% satisfaction. With a full team of PGA Golf Professional's and expert staff, our philosophy is to provide industry leading 5 star customer service coupled with the largest range of affordable golf products at the lowest possible prices! As the market leader we are 100% dedicated in providing our customers the best possible shopping experience and after sales service. In store we have PGA Professionals available 7 days a week to offer the best possible advice while our 30,000 sqft warehouse is the home of our online & mail order business. We offer the very best selection, stocking every brand in depth so that we can cater for all your golfing needs.
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CAL L OUR PGA EXP ERT S 0333 800 1617
WWW.CLUBHOUSEGOLF.CO.UK BIGGER CHOICE BETTER VALUE
5 STAR CUSTOMER SERVICE
Our aim has always been to retail major brands with the biggest choice and best value. With a 30,000 sq ft warehouse and distribution centre, we stock every brand in depth so that we can cater for all your golfing needs in the quickest possible time.
We are 100% dedicated in providing all our customers with the best possible shopping experience and after sales service.
All our stock is brand new, direct from the manufacturer and is packaged ready to be shipped to our customers all over the UK and Europe. Our buying power allows us to offer competitive prices on golf equipment ensuring massive savings off the manufacturer's recommended prices. With better value, you can choose to make a saving or get more for your money at Clubhouse Golf.
SUPERSTORE & CUSTOM FIT CENTRE As well as being the leading online retailer in golf, Clubhouse Golf can also be found on the high street with our 5,000 sqft golf superstore and custom fit centre based in Manchester. As the UK's premier custom fit centre for all the brands, we offer the very best personal custom fitting service with our GC2 HMT launch monitor & golf simulator facility. The Clubhouse Golf superstore is your one stop shop for all your golfing needs.
In store we have five PGA Professionals available 7 days a week to offer the best possible service and advice. With our new warehouse now giving us a 30,000 sq ft facility, orders are processed and dispatched as quickly as possible with the intention of delivering your goods promptly. We are totally committed to giving you the highest levels of service with expert staff and our single mission is to provide an enjoyable and professional shopping experience that fulfils all your golfing needs.
AUTHORISED STOCKIST Clubhouse Golf is established as an Authorised Stockist within the UK and Europe. Every brand and product comes direct from the major brands with full manufacturer's guarantees for total piece of mind. Product authenticity is of paramount importance! Unfortunately the golf market has been saturated with fake copy equipment that is not only worthless in value but its performance bears no reflection to a true golfing brand. As an Authorised Stockist, Clubhouse Golf credited as a preferred retailer by all the leading brands in golf. We give you a 100% guarantee of 5 star customer service coupled with genuine, great performing products.
EASY WAYS TO SHOP SHOP ONLINE: Our online store is open 24/7 offering the best selection of golfing equipment anywhere. OUR NEW IMPROVED WEBSITE has established itself as one of the easiest to use and is 100% guaranteed secure. All products have detailed information which is clear and concise. During office hours, why not try our Live Chat Help facility and chat with one of our golfing experts. BY PHONE: 0333 800 1617 (Mobile Friendly) or 0044 161 745 7055 (International) to place an order or make a general enquiry. Our phone lines are manned 7 days a week and we are always there to assist you. We pride ourselves on our mail order sales service. Our Sales staff are PGA Professional advisors, trained to the highest standard offering you expert advice and the best possible service.
READY FOR YOUR NEXT GAME OF GOLF! ISSUE 16
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TaylorMade SIM2 Max The TaylorMade SIM 2 Max Driver is the shape of forgiveness with new innovative forged ring construction technology. Forged Ring Construction is the key that unlocks a new dimension in distance and forgiveness. Forged from a lightweight and high strength aluminum that is milled to an exacting shape, it unites a massive rear weight, a full carbon sole, crown and a new milled back cup face. Creating a driver designed for increased stability and forgiveness, giving golfers the confidence to take on any tee shot.
VIEW HERE
Cobra RADSPEED The new Cobra RADSPEED driver is designed with a 460cc traditional shape, and forward-biased Radial Weighting to appeal to the better player seeking low spin, low launch, and workability. By pushing the weight as far forward and as far back as possible, Cobra engineers were able to design a driver capable of providing the fastest ball speed with extreme forgiveness – an engineering feat that has not been achieved until now.
VIEW HERE
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Mizuno ST-Z
Ping G425 Max
Titleist TSi2
Maximum Forgiveness With Adjustable MOI In the G425 Max Driver, the Max design elevates the moment of inertia to Pings highest level in history and provides golfers the most forgiving driver in golf.
Maximum Forgiveness With Adjustable MOI In the G425 Max Driver, the Max design elevates the moment of inertia to Pings highest level in history and provides golfers the most forgiving driver in golf.
The all new Titleist TSi2 Driver is for players seeking incredible speed and accuracy across the entire surface of the face. Features a deeper, lower CG to maximise distance through Speed Optimised MOI design.
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CALLAWAY EPIC SPEED Wilson D9
Callaway Epic Speed
The Wilson D9 is built to thrill, with tech that delivers blistering ball speeds and distance that will redefine what you consider long. But the best part about D9? All you have to do is swing. Get ready to play the best D9MN golf of your life.
Callaway Epic Speed will change the industry forever with a simple equation that creates a profound impact on driver technology and performance.
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Srixon ZX5 New Rebound Face Technology, focuses more energy into the golf ball. Rebound Frame’s unique structure increases ball speed and distance on every shot, especially centre-face impacts.
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TaylorMade SIM 2 Max Explosive Distance With Improved V Steel Sole The iconic V Steel Sole Design has been elevated by TaylorMade with the all-new SIM 2 Max Fairway Woods. Prepare for higher launch, more distance and effortless performance. The updated V Steel design redistributes weight to enhance forgiveness while maintaining low CG properties. A depressed heel and toe minimize sole area, adding to V Steel’s turf interaction and versatility benefits.
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Titleist TSi3 Dynamic Performance With CG Adjustability. The all new Titleist TSi3 Fairway Wood is for players who desire incredible speed with more precise flight control. Features a new SureFit CG Track Technology for advanced CG adjustability and the new Active Recoil Channel 4.0 to produce a consistently higher, faster launch.
VIEW HERE
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Cobra RADSPEED
Callaway Epic Speed
Ping G425 Max
The new, powerful RADSPEED Fairway Wood utilizing weight savings from a thinner Carbon Crown design where Cobra engineers were able to free up more discretionary weight to position it forward and increase ball speed.
Callaway Epic Speed will change the industry forever with a simple equation that creates a profound impact on fairway technology and performance. Callaway are not just making fairway woods; they are framing the future of speed.
In the G425 Max Fairway Wood has Facewrap Technology and Spinsistency combine to deliver more distance and spin predictability while offering numerous options to ensure proper gapping throughout a golfer’s bag.
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Srixon ZX
Wilson Staff D9
ZX Fairway Woods boast as much power off the deck as they do off the tee, giving you speed and distance wherever you need it. With new Rebound Face Technology, by focusing more energy into the golf ball.
D9 fairway woods are unbelievably forgiving. The Variable Face Technology virtually guarantees high ball speeds and high launch angles, even on off-centre hits.
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Honma TR21 With a Big LB design, the lower loft with deep and low center of gravity promotes high launch, low spin, and more distance.
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LATEST DEAL Taylormade M6 Fairway
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TaylorMade SIM 2 Max Golf Hybrid Explosive distance with improved V Steel Sole The iconic V Steel Sole Design has been elevated by TaylorMade with the all-new SIM 2 Max Hybrid. Prepare to be rescued with higher launch, more distance and effortless performance. The updated V Steel design redistributes weight to enhance forgiveness while maintaining low CG properties. A depressed heel and toe minimize sole area, adding to V Steel’s turf interaction and versatility benefits. Drafting off the success of the original SIM Max the SIM2 Max Hybrid provides a towering flight and great workability for all skill levels. VIEW HERE
Callaway Apex 21 Hybrid Callaway Apex 21 is a high-tech, high-performance hybrid that blends exceptional A.I. ball speed with our remarkable new Jailbreak Velocity Blades. Featuring Jailbreak A.I. Velocity Blades are engineered to increase vertical stiffness near the sole of the club, creating more speed low on the face where players often mishit their hybrids. VIEW HERE
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Cobra RADSPEED
Wilson Staff D9
Ping G425
The new, forgiving RADSPEED Hybrid utilize Cobra’s innovative Radial Weighting Technology with the emphasis on extreme front weighting for ultra-low spin, faster ball speed, and increased distance.
Versatility, forgiveness and distance gapping that is totally dialled in to your game. D9 hybrids offer higher launch and higher ball speeds without sacrifice.
In the G425 Hybrid has Facewrap Technology and Spinsistency combine to deliver more distance and spin predictability while offering numerous options to ensure proper gapping throughout a golfer’s bag.
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Titleist U510
Srixon ZX Utility
Ping G425 Crossover
Launch it high and long with the Titleist U510 Utility Iron. Easy launching distance utility iron that delivers hybrid-like performance from a muscular iron shape.
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The new ZX Utility Iron Hybrid is smaller, more compact, and more blade-like at address. Fully forged for exceptional feel at impact, even our tour players love the added forgiveness of the ZX Utility Irons.
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On the tee or off the ground, the G425 crossover is engineered to bring golfers gap-filling, long-irontype performance by delivering more distance and green-finding forgiveness. VIEW HERE
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IRONS TaylorMade SIM 2 Max TaylorMade have designed the SIM 2 Max Irons to deliver a forged-like feel in a distance iron. The all-new multi-material Cap Back Design utilizes high-strength stainless steel and ultralight weight polymers. Designed to maximize distance, forgiveness and feel with an extremely low CG.
SIM 2 Max irons use a fast and forgiving face to give golfers more performance exactly where they need it. Designed to approach the threshold of the legal limit, the new face design is fast, flexible, and supremely forgiving.
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Callaway Apex 21 The new Callaway Apex 21 Irons deliver an extraordinary level of forged performance and craftsmanship that we’ve never seen before. They’re the first forged iron designed with Artificial Intelligence for faster ball speeds and improved spin consistency. VIEW HERE
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Cobra RADSPEED
Ping G425
Srixon ZX7
The new Cobra RADSPEED Irons feature game-changing innovations including Radial Weighting and debut the first ever 3D printed nylon medallion in an iron.
Ping experts have re-engineered the face of the G425 iron by employing a metal-woodstyle, variable face thickness (VFT) design. This greatly increases flexing for measurable ball speed gains that launch shots higher and farther with the stopping power to hold greens – a rare result with most of today’s distance-minded irons.
Unrivalled Control With Increased Ball Speed. Srixon’s ZX7 Irons deliver a players irons that looks and feels like a blade while offering more speed and total control. Experience incredible feel and maximum shot shaping ability with the ZX7 Irons.
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Wilson Staff Model CB
Mizuno JPX 921
Titleist T300
The Wilson Staff Model CB Irons are a traditional style players’ iron designed for great ball strikers and golfers who demand ultimate feel. Wilson have constructed the iron with a bar that connects the CB’s top line to the sole and heel.
The JPX 921 Hot Metal Irons pair Mizuno’s fastest ever ball speeds with a piercingly straight, ball flight and controllable landing angles. The 3rd generation of Mizuno irons to utilize the resilience of Chromoly - the JPX 921 has the most complex face geometry to date for additional energy from the clubface.
Bring more great shots to your game with Titleist T300 irons. Powered by Max Impact to extend maximum speed evenly across an extremely forgiving mid-sized face and designed to help any player score lower. Max Impact technology makes it possible to deliver maximum speed without sacrificing forgiveness.
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Titleist Vokey SM8 Blue Slate A limited edition release of the popular SM8 Wedge, the Vokey SM8 Slate Blye Wedge features an blue head with exclusive BV shaft band and finished with a Vokey Multi Compound BV Wings Blue Grip. No other wedge is crafted by the master. No other wedge is backed by the best R&D in the world. And no other wedge represents the most advanced expression of the Vokey Design DNA ever. The next chapter of craftsmanship and innovation is Vokey SM8.
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Cleveland CBX 2 Black Put forgiveness in your short game with the Cleveland CBX 2 Wedge. It provides off-thecharts forgiveness thanks to a new HollowCavity, while the Dynamic Sole boosts all-around versatility. The Cleveland CBX 2 is a forgiving, versatile wedge optimized for golfers who play cavity back irons. A hollow chamber near the heel and a heavy weight in the toe maximizes MOI and perimeter weighting for unprecedented short game forgiveness. You get amazing feel with Enhanced Feel Balancing Technology that delivers a toebias center of gravity, while a Gelback TPU Insert reduces vibration. It all combines to deliver a pure feel at impact. VIEW HERE
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Wilson Model Satin Chrome
Callaway JAWS MD5
TM Milled Grind 2
The new, forgiving RADSPEED Hybrid utilize Cobra’s innovative Radial Weighting Technology with the emphasis on extreme front weighting for ultra-low spin, faster ball speed, and increased distance.
Versatility, forgiveness and distance gapping that is totally dialled in to your game. D9 hybrids offer higher launch and higher ball speeds without sacrifice.
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Mack Daddy CB
TM Hi-Toe Draw
MacGregor MACTEC
In the G425 Hybrid has Facewrap Technology and Spinsistency combine to deliver more distance and spin predictability while offering numerous options to ensure proper gapping throughout a golfer’s bag.
The new ZX Utility Iron Hybrid is smaller, more compact, and more blade-like at address. Fully forged for exceptional feel at impact, even our tour players love the added forgiveness of the ZX Utility Irons.
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Wilson Staff Model wedges deliver short-game confidence and long-term reliability with soft-forged carbon steel heads and precision-milled faces.
On the tee or off the ground, the G425 crossover is engineered to bring golfers gap-filling, long-irontype performance by delivering more distance and green-finding forgiveness. VIEW HERE
LATEST DEAL Cleveland 588 RTX 2.0 Wedge
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Odyssey White Hot OG 2 Ball The iconic White Hot insert is back in the new White Hot OG Putters. The most popular putter insert of all time is back in the exact original formulation, original feel, original sound and original performance. Tour professionals and recreational golfers alike have been asking Odyssey to reintroduce it for years and Odyssey have listened.
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Scotty Cameron Special Select Newport Evolving the curvy, compact setup of this classic blade design, the Special Select Newport is crafted from solid milled 303 stainless steel without an insert and with new performance balanced tungsten sole weighting for a larger sweet spot and increased stability.
The revamped plumbing neck allows for better alignment and setup with freer visual access to the flatter, narrower topline, while a new, cascading concave second tier knocks down reflection and provides a “meltinto-the-ground” appearance at address.
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Odyssey White Hot OG #1WS
Evnroll ER1.2 Tour
Ping Heppler Anser 2
The brainchild of putting guru Guerin Rife, Evnroll putters feature an innovative and unique mill pattern engineered to deliver uniform performance across the entire hitting area of the putter face for enhanced accuracy and zero dispersion.
The Heppler putters offer a machined, solid face for golfers who prefer a firmer impact feel and sound. Multi-material (steel and pressure-cast aluminium) mallets and midmallets provide extreme forgiveness and optimal CG for accuracy and consistency.
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TM Spider EX
Odyssey 2 Ball Ten Stroke Lab
Wilson Staff Infinite II South Side
When you combine the Fluted Feel shaft with the all-new Pure Roll 2 insert and True Path with three dot alignment, the result is confidence you can feel. Introducing the new Spider EX, designed for easy aim, better feel and enhanced stability.
The Odyssey Ten shape is a Tour proven design that puts an emphasis on alignment and high MOI for more confidence and consistency on the greens.
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Legendary the, iconic now, the popular White Hot insert is back in the new White Hot OG Putters.
The Wilson Staff Infinite II Putter line features classic head shapes with refined detailing, each featuring counter-balanced technology. VIEW HERE
LATEST DEAL Odyssey O-Works Putters
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