GolfNews October 2015

Issue 248 | October 2015

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THE UK’S NO1 GOLF NEWSPAPER

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Editor’sComment

[3]

Issue 248 | October 2015

THE UK’S NO1 GOLF NEWSPAPER

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BY NICK BAYLY

THE ART OF THE GIMME Last month I played my annual match against my best man, Jimmy (for that is his name).

The match has been going for 14 years, and the score, after a narrow 2&1 loss by yours truly, now stands evenly balanced at 7-7.

The format is somewhat flexible. Sometimes we play with partners in a fourball, and sometimes as a more combative two-ball, mano a mano. We both prefer the fourball matches, as it takes a good deal of the pressure off our own stressed shoulders, and results in more banter and an altogether more enjoyable day – win, lose or tie.

With a replica of the Claret Jug to play for, and bragging rights for a year, the stakes are extremely high. Throw in close to 35 years of shared history, and the competitive nature of grownup schoolboys, and you have the recipe for a feisty encounter that rivals anything you’ll witness in a Ryder, Solheim or Walker Cup. What started out as a simple excuse to meet up once a year, and catch up with our respective families, has now turned into a sporting clash of the titans that takes months of planning and preparation, and thanks to the powers of social media, and the

interest of past performers, has a following that now rivals that of any EuroPro Tour event.

An 18-hole contest played off three-quarters handicap, the match is always tight, often going down to the 18th, and twice requiring extra holes to decide the winner. While for most of the year I’m happy to concede putts within a dustbin lid of the cup, and often far greater distances, when it comes to the Chutney Cup, as this match is known – don’t ask – the circle of trust narrows to the point that unless a

breath of wind could blow it into the hole, we’d both like to ‘see it in’.

Whether it’s for a half or a win, gimmes are rarely offered and certainly never expected.

There are concessions, but, as experienced golfers, we know when a putt is missable, whether it be through the circumstances of the match or the slope of the green, you’d better knock it in.

I’ve missed, and witnessed, some very short putts over the years under the pressure of the Chutney Cup. Standing over an

How close is your close enough?

P O U LT ER E XCL U SI V E I N T ERV I E W

18-inch tiddler, the fear of failure can do funny things to a man’s putting stroke.

Which, of course, leads me rather ham-fistedly onto last month’s ‘Gimmegate’ at the Solheim Cup, where Suzann Pettersen and Charley Hull applied the letter of the law, but not the spirit of the game, in claiming the 17th hole of the match against Alison Lee and Brittany Lincicombe, after Lee picked up a ball that was no more than 20 inches from the hole, before either of her opponents had verbally conceded the putt.

Whatever the rights and wrongs – and there was blame to be aportioned on both sides – it was a wholly unedifying spectacle played out in front of millions of golf fans, virtually all of whom felt that the American team had been wronged.

The reason being, that whatever the small print in the rules says, golf, at its very heart, is a game about decency and fair play. It’s a game when winning ‘ugly’ is not winning at all. So by all means make someone hole a putt if you think they might miss it, but be clear in your intention and don’t let your actions – in this case, walking off the green – be misinterpreted as something else.

Golf News, Maple House, The Spinney, Hove, BN3 6QT Tel: 01273 381794 Email: info@golfnews.co.uk Website: www.golfnews.co.uk Follow us on: Twitter@golfnewsmag Managing Director Matt Nicholson matt@golfnews.co.uk Editor Nick Bayly editor@golfnews.co.uk PR and Marketing Director Melanie Evans melanie@golfnews.co.uk Production Kath Perry ads@golfnews.co.uk For advertising enquiries please contact Matt Nicholson matt@golfnews.co.uk Design www.yotedesign.com Photography Getty Images Kevin Murray Published by BlueGreen Media Regular contributors Jeremy Ellwood, Sarah Stirk, Paul Mahoney, Clive Agran, Tom Lewis, Alistair Tait, Matt Ford. © Copyright Golf News 2015. No part of this publication may be copied, photocopied or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in anyway or means, either by recording or otherwise, without permission of the publishers in writing.

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NEWS IN BRIEF ABLETT SECURES ORDER OF MERIT Lee on Solent’s James Ablett captured the 2015 Virgin Atlantic PGA South Order of Merit after finishing second to Guy Woodman in the PGA Farnham Finale. Woodman fired a 15-under-par total of 201 to edge Ablett into second, who secured the Order of Merit with 493 points, finishing well clear of runner-up Benn Barham on 361. Woodman shot rounds of 67, 65 and 69 to collect the £3,000 first prize, while Ablett finished a stroke behind to earn himself £2,000. And with 100 points for the PGA Farnham Finale win, Woodman’s 308 points leapfrogged rival Chris Gane’s 244 to secure a place in next month’s Titleist PGA Play Offs in Turkey.

SEVENTH HEAVEN FOR ACE BARBARA A septuagenarian 18-handicapper from Reading won herself a limited edition Hugo Boss watch after notching up her seventh ace. Barbara Langdale, 71, achieved her most recent hole-in-one on the 94-yard, par-three fourth at Hennerton Golf Club. Although she has been playing for 25 years, all seven aces have been achieved in the last decade. “I don’t really have a secret to getting a hole-in-one – I don’t tend to hit the ball very far, but my main strength is I can hit it straight,” she said.

TUDOR PARK BOOK MAIL FINALS SPOT Tudor Park’s men’s team battled through nine qualifying rounds to book a place in the finals of the Mail on Sunday National Golf Club Classic, which is being held at El Rompido in Spain from November 22-26. The Maidstone-based club secured its place in the semis following a closely-fought match against Pyecombe, which required extra holes before the match was decided. They will face teams from Brynhill, Muthill and Normanby in Spain.

ASCOT ACES FOR MR AND MRS! A husband and wife from Berkshire both scored a hole-in-one on the same day at Royal Ascot Golf Club last month. Playing together on September 27, Paula Morris aced the 148-yard sixth hole, and less than half an hour later husband Gil saw his tee shot find the cup at the 124yard eighth hole.

[6]

OCTOBER 2015 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

BLUEWATER BECKONS AS LONDON GOLF SHOW SWINGS INTO ACTION Golfers who haven’t yet had the pleasure of a weekend daytrip to Bluewater Retail Park in Kent – and even those that have – now have the perfect excuse to visit one of Europe’s most popular shopping and leisure facilities with the return of the highly-anticipated London Golf Show next month.

Having moved to the Swanley–based venue last year, following several years at exhibition centres in central London, the show’s new location at Bluewater proved a big hit with golfers. Just a few miles off the M25, it’s within easy reach of large numbers of golfers from all corners of the South East and further afield.

And this year’s show, which returns to Glow at Bluewater from November 13-15, promises to be bigger and better than ever, teeing up a number of new features that look sure to entice more visitors to the attend the three-day event.

The show, which attracted over 13,000 golfers last year, has outlined a series of change to its format that will make it a more immersive experience, as well as unveiling of number of commercial partnerships that will result in some superb value offers for ticket holders.

The organiser has broadened the scope of the show to include specific zones for women, juniors, equipment and gadgets, apparel and accessories, and coaching and travel.

The dedicated Women’s Zone sees a much bigger focus on the ladies’ game, and the show has announced a partnership with Felicity Dunderdale from FORE!Women, a ladies online

Gane tames Wildwood with flawless 66 Ghris Gane

Silvermere’s Chris Gane won the Wildwood Invitational after shooting a six-under-par 66 at the Surrey venue.

With three birdies on each nine, the talented lefthander finished two shots in front of Richard Wallis and Chris Rodgers, who both shot 68s.

After picking up his £900 winner’s cheque, Gane said: “I’ve been playing well all year, but in the last few weeks one or two more putts have dropped.

It’s those that make all the difference, and as a result I’ve been making the speeches instead of listening to them!”

Fake bomb detector fraudster ordered to pay back £1.2m A fraudster from Kent who made over £6 million from the sale of a joke golf ball finder (pictured below) that was made to look like a bomb detector has been ordered to pay back £1.25 million.

Gary Bolton, 49, from Chatham, was jailed for seven years in 2013 over the sale of more than 1,000 fake detectors that he claimed could track down bombs, drugs, ivory and money. But the detector actually had Gary Bolton its origins as a novelty golf ball finder and was merely a retractable antenna mounted on a plastic box. Bolton baffled officials and potential customers with made-up scientific theories to drum up support for his Ashford-based business Global Technical, which sold the machines for up to £20,000 each, and at its peak was turning over £3m. But after a three-week trial at the Old Bailey in 2013, Bolton was convicted of fraud and sentenced to three years behind bars. He has now been given three months to pay back £1.2 million or face a further seven years in jail.

social network based in Kent. The partnership will see Dunderdale present a bespoke area for ladies to shop for a wide range of specialist women’s brands.

Among the free extras on offer to visitors are green fees with Pentland Golf, owners and managers of five golf clubs across the UK, which will be giving away five free rounds of golf for each visitor as part of the entry ticket price. Pentland’s venues include Pedham Place, Boughton and Etchinghill, all of which are located in Kent. Advance tickets to the London Golf Show cost just £10, and the free rounds of golf could be worth up to £160.

Equipment retailer American Golf is the official retail partner, offering top golf brands the chance to be part of a new area where they will receive a stand space to retail through America Golf. The partnership with American Golf means there will no longer be a large retail store, but instead more intimate and better stocked stands, where suppliers can engage more easily with visitors, while still offering everything a superb shopping experience.

For advance tickets visit www.londongolfshow.com.

Brocket Hall has several buyers lined up

BROCKET LINES UP POTENTIAL BUYERS Negotiations are well under way to find a buyer for the troubled Brocket Hall estate in Hertfordshire.

The lease for the 543-acre estate, which comprises a 36-hole golf club, an 18th century stately home with 46 guest rooms, and the Auberge du Lac restaurant, went on the market in April, after operator Brocket Hall International went into administration.

A number of companies, including existing golf club operators, are now understood to have tabled bids to take on the leasehold from holding company Brocket Hall International, who called in the administrators AlixPartners in March, after what it called a ‘protracted period of poor trading’, which led to financial difficulties for the business.

Lord Charles Brocket owns the freehold of the estate, but he no longer owns the lease. Having been jailed in 1991 for a £4.3m car insurance fraud, Lord Brocket placed the estate into the hands of a board of trustees, who then leased it to BHI. BHI, run by Hong Kong-based businessman Dieter Klostermann, has been in financial difficulty for some time. In its last set of published accounts, for the year to 31 December 2012, its auditors questioned its ability to keep running as a going concern, after the company incurred a net loss of over £1m for the period, with net liabilities of nearly £1.9m.

Its move into administration was precipitated by a winding-up petition from HMRC, and it faced another winding-up petition late last year from Autogate Services and Installation Ltd. Despite that, the entire business, including the golf club, has continued to run as normal while AlixPartners has explored options for a sale. Since then the golf club’s manager, John Keating, has left his position.

It has been has reported in the business press that unsecured creditors to BHI are set to make a total loss of about £16.7 million from their investments, while HSBC Bank, the company’s secured creditor, is owed more than £1.6 million.

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NEWS IN BRIEF

OCTOBER 2015 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

SLUMBERS TAKES CHARGE AT R&A

KENT CLAIM SOUTH EAST LEAGUE TITLE

A new era at the top of amateur golf’s administration started on September 28, when Martin Slumbers replaced Peter Dawson as the chief executive of the R&A, and secretary of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews.

“I am delighted to take on the challenge of leading the R&A, and serving such a historic club,” said Slumbers. “The R&A has been left in excellent health by my predecessor, and I look forward to building upon his success, and working together with our committees and staff to ensure the R&A continues to play a leading role in golf’s global development.”

Born in Brighton and educated at Lancing College, Slumbers, 55, is a chartered accountant

Kent’s county men’s first team won the England Golf SE Group League Final after beating Essex 7.5-4.5 at Broadstone Golf Club in Dorset. The team comprised Joshua Bristow, Dan Brown, Liam Burns, Dan Byrne, Mark Collins, Dan Jones, Tom Jordan, George Mullins and Freddie Price. The team won the Southern League after enjoying a clean sweep over Hampshire, Dorset, Surrey and Sussex.

MEHMET BAGS 10TH AT WORLD JUNIORS Surrey’s Inci Mehmet finished in 10th place at the World Junior Golf Championship in Canada. Her four-round scores of 72, 72, 77 and 74 at the Marshes Club, Ottawa saw her finish as the top-placed English player.

The tournament is open to all those aged 19 or under who are not at college or university. Mehmet, who plays off plus three, is a member at Royal Mid Surrey GC and is a regular England squad player.

and former investment banker.

He spent 12 years working for Salomon Brothers in London and Hong Kong, before joining Deutsche Bank in 1998, where he served in a number of senior executive roles. He lives in Surrey with his wife and two children, and is a member at Worplesdon Golf Club, where he plays off a handicap of two.

Dawson, who led the R&A for 16 years, was instrumental is seeing through a number of key changes in the game, including allowing women to become members of the R&A in 2014; bidding for golf’s inclusion in the 2016 Olympics; and playing a leading in role in the banning of anchoring the putting stroke, which comes into force at the beginning of next year.

Martin Slumbers

Daryl Dampney of Parley Golf Centre where work has started to transform it into the region’s finest practice facility.

Practice made perfect at Parley!

Work is well underway to transform Parley Golf Centre in Bournemouth into one of the south’s finest playing and practice facilities.

Over £250,000 is being invested in the Dorset-based venue, which will see the centre’s existing 9-hole course reconfigured into an 18-hole layout, while a new short game area and an upgrade to the driving range will allow golfers to enjoy the very best of practice facilities.

One of the centrepieces of the project is a new 1,500-square metre practice green, which is being constructed to full USGA specifications, with full drainage and irrigation, and is scheduled to open next autumn.

The new short game practice area, which will have chipping areas and practice bunkers, will ultimately be floodlit. The driving range is also being upgraded, and a grassed teeing area added. Inside, a private room with a driving bay and seating is being built, which will be available for hire and for business meetings. A hi-tech golf simulator is also being installed.

Grass is already well established on the new greens that are part of the re-designed nine-hole course that will be re-orientated to provide a round of 18 holes with a total distance of 5,111 yards. The existing course remains unchanged while work is going on, and when complete the centre will cover an area twice as large as before.

Daryl Dampney, manager of the centre, which is set within a beautiful 800-acre farming estate next to the River Stour, and close to Bournemouth Airport, said: “The completion date for the outside work is largely dependent on this winter’s weather, but it’s great to see things well underway. We have ever-growing women and children’s sections, and with the new practice and learning facilities we expect to attract even more.”

He added: “The inspiration for the development came from a visit to the US where these types of facility are more common. It is not just golfers that are regulars here; our café-bar attracts lots of people who are looking for a friendly place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.”

Parley Golf Centre first opened in 1991 as a six-hole course, but was subsequently expanded to nine holes and a 27-bay, floodlit driving range.

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NEWS | OCTOBER 2015

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Stoke Park Women’s Invitational proves smash hit

A new invitational event created to give female business executives the chance to mix business and golf was launched at Stoke Park Golf Club last month, with 85 women from 26 different companies taking part in the inaugural SSE Women’s Invitational.

Offering more than a traditional corporate day or a round of golf, the day at the prestigious Buckinghamshire venue saw beginners take part in various instructional clinics, while more experienced golfers played nine holes on Stoke Park’s Colt layout in a team stableford format.

Following golf, delegates were joined by Ladies European Tour legend Dame Laura Davies and recent Solheim Cup star Mel Reid, who both took part in a Q&A session, after which guests were treated to a trick-shot show by the Golf Trick Shot Boys.

In an action-packed day off the course, BBC Radio 5 presenter Claire McDonnell hosted a panel discussion involving leading business figures, including Giles Morgan, global head of sponsorship and events at HSBC; writer and broadcaster Liz Fraser; Stephanie Zinser, owner of golf equipment brand Lynx Golf; and Times journalist Matthew Syed.

For details on how to join the next Women’s Invitational golf day, visit www.womensinvitational. com/info.

[9]

Horsfield reveals reasons for Walker Cup withdrawal Sam Horsfield has revealed that he pulled out of last month’s GB&I Walker Cup team due to concerns over his visa arrangements.

The 18 year old, who was born in Manchester but has lived in America since he was five, mysteriously cited ‘personal reasons’ for pulling out of the GB&I team just 13 days before the matches began.

However, he subsequently revealed that he was unable to secure the necessary

Sam Horsfield is a safely back in the States

visa documentation that would allow him to compete at Royal Lytham and be sure of being able to return to America, where he has just started his first year at university near his family home in Orlando.

Horsfield said that the short time between the team being announced and the date of travel meant that it had been impossible for him to get an definitive answer from US Homeland Security that he would be able to get back into America.

“It was obviously very disappointing, but more than anything, I did not want it to be a distraction for the team,” said Horsfield, who is 25th in the world amateur rankings, the third-highest player from Great Britain and Ireland. “Needless to say, I was thrilled to see the GB&I team play so well, and I hope to be a part of future Walker Cup teams.”

Unlike many of the GB&I team, Horsfield said that he is no hurry to turn professional, and is looking forward to three years as a student at the University of Florida, where he has already made an impact after finishing fourth in his first tournament, the Carpet Capital Collegiate in Galveston.

“Maybe it’s because I’ve grown up in the US, because in Britain it seems there’s sometimes a rush to turn pro,” he said about his reasons for remaining in the amateur ranks. “One of the deciding factors in not turning professional was watching Jordan Spieth winning the Masters, and realising that he had spent a few years in college. The way I look at it is that I’m only 18, and the PGA Tour isn’t going anywhere. Going to college will be a good maturing experience for me as well.

I’ve never lived on my own or fended for myself, so it’ll be a cool experience.”

NEWS IN BRIEF BROOME MANOR PAIR PIPPED AT THE BELFRY The inaugural American Golf 9-Hole Championship was won by Luke Eustace and Mark Kelly of Selby Golf Club in Yorkshire, after they beat Broome Manor’s Tom and Sam Ruddle 3&1 in the grand final held over The Belfry’s Brabazon Course.

The winners won a holiday in the Bahamas and a round of golf with former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley. The competition saw 20 pairs compete over two 9-hole betterball stableford rounds, with the four highest scoring pairs progressing to matchplay semi-finals and final.

HAM MANOR HOSTS CENTENARY JUG Harrison Gausden (Royal Eastbourne) and Richard Hall (Crowbrough Beacon) will represent Sussex in the England Golf Gold Medal final after winning their respective categories at the Centenary Jug Final held at Ham Manor.

Seven-handicapper Gausden won the Category 1 and 2 event with 36 points, while Hall, who plays off 15, won the Category 3 and 4 section with 37 points.

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NEWS IN BRIEF LET CARDS SEWN UP AT STOKE BY NAYLAND Spain’s Natalia Escuriola enjoyed a wire-to-wire victory in the final event of the LET Access Series, the WPGA International Challenge held at Stoke by Nayland. In addition to the €4,800 first prize, victory at the Suffolk venue lifted Escuriola into second place in the order of merit and secured her playing rights for next season’s Ladies European Tour. The other players to earn their LET cards were Germany’s Olivia Cowan and Isi Gabsa, Johanna Gustavsson of Sweden, and Finland’s Krista Bakker.

JAPANESE GIRL WINS FALDO FINAL Yumi Kudo of Japan claimed victory in a thrilling finale to the 19th Faldo Series Grand Final, becoming only the second girl to earn the title of overall series champion. Kudo fired rounds of 74, 69 and 70 at Bad Saarow in Germany to win by a single shot with a three under par total.

England’s Jack Yule finished as Boys’ Under-21 winner earning an invite into the tenth Faldo Series Asia Grand Final and an invitation to play in a professional tour event.

[10] OCTOBER 2015 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

CARDY WRAPS UP LUTON HOO RECORD Suffolk’s Jack Cardy broke the course record at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf and Spa Resort last month, en route to a convincing victory in a two-day Jamega Tour event held at the Bedfordshirebased venue.

Cardy, from Hintlesham Golf Club, captured the Luton Hoo Classic with an impressive 14-under-par total around the 7,100-yard championship layout.

He set up the victory with a record-breaking nine-under 64 in the first round, which included nine birdies, and then followed it up with a second round 68.

Cardy is no stranger to success, having won multiple Nations Cups with England, and a number of county championship titles, however it was his first win on the Jamega Tour, which organises events throughout the UK, with a first prize of £2,000.

Commenting on his two days’ work, Cardy said: “My first round was like an out of body experience, as I kept on making birdie after birdie. The putts just seemed to keep dropping.

You get punished for bad shots on this course,

so my strategy was to sacrifice some distance and find the fairways, as the rough can be quite tough. It was a fantastic tournament from start to finish, and the condition of the course was excellent.”

Luton Hoo manager Mark Bierton was delighted that the course, which first opened in 2008, proved so popular with the next generation of young pros. He said: ”It was a great honour for us to welcome the Jamega Tour to Luton Hoo. The course has matured significantly since its opening seven years ago, with a lot of investment in new machinery and an expert greenkeeping team, making it one of the best courses in the region, and worthy of professional tournaments.”

He added: “It was fantastic to have our course record broken by Jack. It’s a testament to the level of players at the tournament and the course condition. We received a lot of positive feedback from the players, and we are looking forward to hosting the event at Luton Hoo again next year.”

Gary Torbett

Chipstead launches junior scholarship scheme Chipstead Golf Club in Surrey is about to give 15 youngsters the opportunity to join for one year free of charge.

Renowned for producing talented youngsters, Chipstead will be offering the first 15 juniors who fit the scheme’s criteria the chance to play and develop their golfing skills free for 12 months.

Gary Torbett, Chipstead’s Director of Golf, said: “Our club has been a breeding ground for talented youngsters during my 25 years here, and are now looking to help the next crop of committed juniors who wish to improve and develop their golfing skills, and feel that our current scheme will enable them to fulfill their golfing dreams.”

The successful applicants will be assessment by one of the club’s qualified PGA coaches to see if they fit the criteria required. The offer is open from now until the end of December. For further information call Gary Torbett on 01737 554939 or email directorofgolf@chipsteadgolf.co.uk.

Goodwood celebrates decade of credit membership When Goodwood Golf Club launched its credit membership scheme back in 2006, many people thought it was a crazy idea that would never catch on. But almost 10 years later, virtually every club in the country offers some sort of pay-as-you-go scheme or flexible category that allows golfers to enjoy the benefits of full membership for a much smaller outlay.

Today, Golf At Goodwood, as its is known now, has a thriving membership, with over 2,000 credit members enjoying all the facilities that the South Downs-based club has to offer.

Credit members pay an annual subscription of £260, and then buy bundles of credits - the

minumium being £150 – that cover green fees on both its courses, as well as guests fees, range balls, buggies, competition entry fees and tuition.

Eddie Bullock, non-executive director at Goodwood, said: “Credit membership gives golfers the flexibility they desire. Whether members play once in while or once a week, they only need to purchase a credit bundle that will suit their individual usage. The scheme is incredibly popular with members, with over 85% currently using credit membership.”

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BRITISH MASTERS | OCTOBER 2015

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

[11]

FITZ HITS THE MARK AT WONDERFUL WOBURN Sheffield’s Matthew Fitzpatrick claimed his first European Tour title with a wireto-wire victory in the revived British Masters held in front of packed crowds at Woburn, writes Nick Bayly

I

an Poulter was on the podium at the end of the British Masters at Woburn, but sadly the 37-year-old Ryder Cup star was not there to pick up the trophy, but rather to hand it over to the winner, 21-year-old Matthew Fitzpatrick, in his new role as tournament host.

Poulter, who is Woburn’s attached tour professional, finished down the field in 33rd, after playing the Marquess course in four under par for the week, but he had nothing but admiration and praise for the man almost half his age who finished 14 shots ahead of him.

And while it was local lad Poulter, returning to his old stomping grounds, who quite rightly grabbed all the pre-tournament headlines, it was rookie Fitzpatrick who stole the show once the tapes were up, leading or sharing the lead for all four rounds, with scores of 64, 69, 68 and 68 for a 15-under par total.

The Sheffield youngster pocketed over €670,000 for his week’s work, taking his earnings for his first season on tour to well over £1m, and giving him a massive leap up the Race to Dubai (12th) and world rankings (111th).

With the majestic Marquess course playing every inch of its 7,150 yards, thanks to heavy rain in the days up to the tournament,

Fitzpatrick’s accurate driving, pinpoint iron play, and assured touch around the tricky greens, saw him finish two shots clear of recent winners Shane Lowry and Soren Kjeldsen, who shared second place with Italy’s Fabrizio Zannotti.

Another recent winner, Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat, shared fifth with Luke Donald, whose third round 65 sparked hopes from the local fans of a long overdue return to the winner’s circle.

However Donald et al had to play second fiddle to Fitzpatrick, who started off the season with six missed cuts from his first eight events, but found his stride in no uncertain terms in recent months, finishing second in the European Masters, and third in both the Dutch and Italian Opens, en route to his life-changing week at Woburn.

Fitzpatrick began the final round tied for the lead with Aphibarnrat, but a level-par front nine of 35 left him two shots adrift of Zanotti and Kjeldsen. A birdie on the par-five 11th closed the gap, and Fitzpatrick made it a three-way tie for the lead with another from close range on the 12th, before a massive turning point on the par-five 15th.

Champagne moment: Matt Fitzpatrick was doused in bubbles by his brother following his debut win on the European Tour

Kjeldsen looked set to gain the upper hand when he found the putting surface in two, only to run his eagle putt off the green and narrowly miss the birdie attempt.

In the group behind, Fitzpatrick holed from 20 feet to take the outright lead for the first time, and things went from bad to worse for Kjeldsen when his

pushed drive on the 16th finished at the base of a narrow tree.

From there the 40 year old could only advance his ball to within 50 yards of the green and, when he failed to get up and down, Fitzpatrick had a two-shot lead. He maintained it in brilliant fashion with a birdie from four feet on the 17th after Zanotti had holed

from outside.

After picking up the handsome new trophy from sponsors Sky Sports’ managing director Barney Francis, Fitzpatrick said: “It’s unbelievable. It’s not going to sink in for a long time. A first professional win, British Masters, in England, with my family here; life does not get any better. Winning wire-to-wire is something most players dream of. Jordan Spieth did so when he won the Masters, and for me to be in the same category as him is pretty special.”

While it is a big leap to put the youngster’s achievements into the same realms of a dual major winner, you get the feeling that this is not the last we’ll be hearing of Matthew Fitzpatrick.

While the rain-softened greens made shooting for the pins the order of the week, thankfully the rain stayed away for the tournament itself, and the 57,000 fans that flocked to the Bedfordshire course enjoyed dry conditions, with the sunlight dappling Woburn’s fairways and greens to showcase autumn golf in England at its finest.

Luke Donald finished fifth after a third round 65

Fitzpatrick celebrates with his family

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NEWS IN BRIEF NORTHWOOD PAIR WIN LONDON FOURSOMES The Northwood pairing of Robbie Johnson and Justin Phelps won the London Amateur Foursomes after being taken to extra holes in the final at Walton Heath by a team from West Middlesex.

The tournament, which first srted in 1907, is open to clubs located within 40 miles of Charing Cross station. This year saw 71 teams take part.

WEST MIDDLESEX WIN ROWSE FINAL West Middlesex won the Rowse Final for the first time since 1981 after beating Crews Hill 8.5-3.5 at Northwood. The winning team were down in three of the morning foursomes matches, before coming back to lead 4-0. They then won the singles matches 4.5-3.5 to take the title.

The West Middlesex team comprised Chris Wolseley, Mick McCormick, John Piper, Peter Reynolds, Chris Lynch, Jon Baker-Odlin, Frank Toner, Andy Sutton, Matt Alden and David Grabham.

[12] OCTOBER 2015 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

CLUBS MOVE TO OFFER ‘GENDER-FREE’ TEES The days of ‘playing off the success, particularly with reds’ could soon be over if a our senior men and higher decision by a number of UK handicap ladies, who now clubs to abandon designated have the opportunity to ladies’ tees gains wider play a shorter course.” acceptance.

Milton first had the idea More than 30 clubs in of gender-free tees when England have already done he was junior organiser away with ladies’ tees in at another club. “We had an effort to encourage a young lady who was in Tees for two: shared tees could soon be a common sight improving golfers, retain England training and who ageing players, and promote was only allowed to play off social golf. the ladies’ forward tees, despite the fact she could hit Most clubs have men’s and ladies’ tees, as well as it further than most of the men. The club insisted on competition tees; however, movable ‘gender-free tees’ the status quo,” he said. are common in America, and the concept is attracting However, when he proposed the idea at Sheringham, growing attention in the UK, with a number of clubs the club quickly got behind it, while also creating four having created unisex tees, where skill rather than academy holes for beginners on the practice ground and gender dictates which one a player decides to use. allowing the use of buggies in competition.

Gemma Hunter, England Golf’s handicap and course “We have increased participation in our rating manager, said: “It is still very new here, but I competitions and I believe we have better retention know of over 30 courses which have rated at least one of members. We want people to play and to be part of course for both genders. This is all about making the the club for as long as they can,” said Milton. best use of your golf course for all your members and Trentham Park has abandoned the tee colours for newcomers who want to take up the game. You’re traditionally associated with the men’s and women’s not building new holes or tees, you’re just rating what game. Now the club has a black course (6,390 yards), you already have.” blue (6,188), green (5,255), plus a composite blue/ Sheringham in Norfolk, and Trentham Park in green course measuring 5,694. There are also white Staffordshire, have both replaced their ladies’ tees tees, further down the fairways, for junior beginners. with tees that anyone can play off to suit their ability One advantage is that the whole club can play and inclination. Players who are losing length can together, off all tees, in special competitions. move to forward tees; improving players and lower Club manager Jon Farmer said: “We’re probably handicap ladies can gain an extra challenge by moving typical of the average club, and want to retain the back; while social golfers can choose to play together members we have and bring in new members. We’ve off the same tees. developed the course so that anyone can come Sheringham took the plunge a couple of years ago and play the game, and that’s important to us. We when it introduced a new set of forward tees to create can give longevity to the ageing player who might an additional, short course. The club now has three have left because they were losing length and didn’t sets of tees, all rated for men and women, from blue, feel competitive. The complete beginner, who feels the shortest, through to yellow and white. There is a embarrassed teeing off in front of the clubhouse, can further set of black tees, which are rated only for men, use the forward tee, which is about 100 yards away. on the advice of the ladies’ county association.

As players improve and want a greater challenge they Secretary Neal Milton said: “It’s been a great can move back.”

Herne Bay housing plans given go-ahead Plans to build a residential complex and new sporting facilities on the former Herne Bay Golf Club in Kent have finally been given the go ahead.

Property developers Quinn Estates had previously had an application for the 100-acre plot turned down, but local councillors have now voted unanimously in favour of the scheme, plans for which include 572 homes, commercial office space and football, hockey and cricket pitches.

Resubmitted proposals had received 1,200 letters of support – the vast majority using a template created by Quinn Estates – and just four objections.

The golf course was closed down in 2011, after the family-owned venue went into administration. The 116-year-old club was subsequently sold to Quinn Estates for £1.2million for commercial development.

Quinn Estates’ managing director Mark Quinn said: “We want to be allowed to develop houses in an area that desperately needs them. People need to realise that unless land is released to be used for housing, their children will have nowhere to live.

Herne Bay Golf Course is to be turned over to a housing development

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NEWS | OCTOBER 2015

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

[13]

SOUTH BUCKS CHARITY DAY RAISES OVER £4,000

GB&I MAKE HISTORY WITH FIRST PGA CUP WIN IN USA Great Britain & Ireland’s PGA Cup team etched its name into the history books after securing its first ever win away from home. They defeated the United States 13.5-12.5 in a titanic tussle at CordeValle in California to capture the the Llandudno Trophy.

An enthralling Sunday singles went right down to the final hole of the five sessions, before Niall Kearney coolly drained an eight-foot putt to spark jubilant scenes. Kearney had fired his approach dangerously close to the hazard at the back of the par-five 18th, but splashed up and then holed out to win 1up after Alan Morin had missed a 30-foot putt that would have ensured that USA retained the cup.

GB&I captain Jon Bevan, said: “I’m proud of all of them. To win the PGA Cup is the culmination of 12 months of planning, but I will definitely have a word with Niall about doing it an easier way.”

Bevan’s tactic of frontloading his big-hitters paid dividends, with David Dixon, Graham Fox and Jason Levermore securing points. First man out Gareth Wright was outgunned by Mike Block, who had five birdies in his 2&1 win, Dixon was up from the second against Stuart Deane and closed it out 4&3. Essex’s Levermore was equally impressive – trailing by three through 10, he ended up playing the back nine in seven under par, and birdied 16 and 18 to win 1up against Jamie Broce. The Channels pro, who arrived in San Francisco on a stretcher after being taken ill on the flight over, will leave California standing tall after being undefeated in five matches. “When you have nine team mates depending on you it puts more pressure on, but that makes it all the more rewarding,” he said. “ I saw the scoreboard after five holes and there was a lot of red, but we dug Jason Levermore deep and turned it around.”

South Buckinghamshire Golf Club’s annual chairman’s charity golf day raised over £4,000 for local causes. A total of 17 teams took part in the golf day on September 17 to help raise funds for the chairman of South Bucks District Council Duncan Smith’s community fund, which provides small grants to help local good causes.

The day included breakfast, golf and lunch, as well as a number of competitions, including a raffle, with prizes donated by a number of companies, including Pinewood Studios and The South Buckinghamshire.

All team and individual winners were presented with glass trophies and goody bags, with the overall winner, Tithe Farm from Stoke Poges, who was also the hole-in-one sponsor, taking home the Busby-Reed trophy for

this year.

Coucillor Smith said: “I am delighted that so much money was raised through the golf day and everyone had a really enjoyable time. I now encourage local clubs, groups and charities providing services within South Bucks to apply for funding and continue the amazing work they do within our community.”

Next year’s event has been set for Friday, September 16, and teams, sponsors and donations are welcomed early to help raise even more money in 2016.

‘Shermanator’ outclasses Littlestone field Paul Sherman walked away with Paul Sherman the Littlestone Charity Pro-Am after shooting a seven-under-par 64.

With just one little slip at the 16th, the Langley Park pro unleashed six birdies in the first 12 holes and topped the lot with an eagle at the final hole.

Sherman’s performance left the 68 of Richard Wallis well off the mark in second place, while local hero Charlie Wilson shot 69 for third spot.

“I shot a new course record 63 in The PGA in Kent Championship last year,” Sherman said, “so I came here in a very positive frame of mind.

I’ve had quite a good year as well, with four wins – but it’s great to shoot my lowest score of the season at one of my favourite courses. Littlestone was in terrific condition, and playing on a fast firm links course in great weather for the time of year was an absolute joy.”

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NEWS IN BRIEF ROMFORD SECURE SENIORS’ TITLE Romford won the Essex Seniors Championship after beating Thorndon Park 7-4 at Chelmsford Golf Club.

The winners set out their stall early, winning the first four matches by convincing margins, before Thorndon fought back to 4-2 with wins from Ken Richards and Gary Ansel. However, further wins for John Breheny (2&1) and Kevin Smith (9&7), and a vital half from Eddy Nash, gave Romford the required six-anda-half points to seal the win.

BURSTEAD BAG LESLIE WOOD TITLE Burstead won the Essex Golf Union’s Leslie F Wood Team Championship after beating Ilford 91/2-51/2 at Chigwell.

The winning team took a 3-1 lead in the morning foursomes with wins for Jack Luff and Grey Irskine; Richard Honeyman and Neil Chegwidden; and Sam Ainsbury and Dave Aldridge.

The singles was a closer affair, with Greg Erskine’s 3&2 win over Mark Bishop in the seventh of the 10 singles matches sealing the win for Burstead.

[14] OCTOBER 2015

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

THE SHORT TOURNAMENT WITH A LONG HISTORY

After the successful staging of yet another edition of the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship at Nailcote Hall, GolfNews catches up with the venue’s owner, Rick Cressman, and event organiser John Hayes of Champions (UK) plc, to find out about the history of the tournament and what the future holds

W

hy did you decide to revive the Championship 25 years after it was last played in Torquay in 1978?

Rick Cressman: After I bought Nailcote Hall, I purchased five acres of land to build a proper 9-hole golf course, working closely alongside former PGA national champion Sid Mouland in the course design.

Sid was very passionate about short course golf, and he used to tell me stories about the British Professional Short Course Championship, which took place at Torquay’s Palace Hotel from 193373, and that sowed the idea in my mind of bringing the tournament back to life.

The origins of the event are even older that the one that Augusta stages before the Masters, which has its own fantastic Par 3 course, and was a big inspiration.

My aim was to make Nailcote Hall Warwickshire’s answer to Augusta. In 1998, the event made its debut at Nailcote Hall and it developed well over the next three years. And after a hiatus in 2006, due to personal reasons, the championship returned bigger and

better under a new name – the British Par 3 Championship.

How did the two of you meet and decide to build the championship together?

John Hayes: My client and good friend Willie Thorne introduced me to Rick, and I was invited to play at the championship. It was a fantastic experience, but I also saw plenty of potential for growth and improvement. We got on very well and found we shared similar ambitions, and my company, Champions, came on board as co-owners. In 2008, we succeeded in getting Tony Jacklin, who we now manage, to play at the championship. It seemed fitting that the man who had helped bring the European Tour and the Ryder Cup back to life would go on to help us do the same at the British Par 3 Championship. He has been our tournament host ever since.

Why is par-three golf becoming increasingly popular?

RC: We all believe – John, Tony and myself – that par-three golf, and other shortened formats of the game, are the future. Tony was

 

initially surprised, as he hadn’t thought short course golf could be so much fun, but now he is one of its biggest champions.

JH: For less time and money, you can enjoy a sport that is just as challenging, and often even more fun to play, but one that is inclusive of all players – male and female, old and young. Removing the element of big hitting means that it’s a test of your short game, pure and simple.

How has the championship developed and what are your ambitions for the future?

RC: By combining our experience, skill sets and contacts, the championship has gone from strength to strength. The range of players we have had at Nailcote Hall is staggering. We have welcomed everyone from Ryder Cup players like Sam Torrance and Brian Barnes, to major champions such as Ian Woosnam and Paul Lawrie, as well as current stars from both the men’s and women’s game, including Tommy Fleetwood, Eddie Pepperell, Charley Hull and Carly Booth.

JH: Continuing to increase the prize fund, thanks to our headline

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sponsor, Farmfoods, has been crucial in attracting the very best golfers. As well as top players, we also have two Celeb-Am days, where we have welcomed a host of a stars. Just some of the names who have attended include Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Bobby Charlton, Damon Hill, Len Goodman, Jasper Carrott, Peter Schmeichel, Keith Duffy, Brian McFadden…the list goes on. We are also able to raise vital funds for our chosen charity, Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People.

RC: The championship has come a long way, but we’re determined that it continues to grow, attracting more golfers, celebrities and visitors, and becomes a widely recognised fixture on the calendar.

Next year’s Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship takes place from July 26th-29th. For more details on taking part in the Celeb-Am events, purchasing tickets or any other details, visit www. britishpar3.com or call Champions (UK) plc on 08453 313 031.

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Although the credit crunch remains the topic of conversation in clubhouses up and down the country, another financially-linked institution is also making its mark on the golfing community - namely Inflation.

Inflation is a London-based band which is currently proving a smash hit at golf club dinners and dances throughout the south east.

With a vocal and Instrumental repertoire covering a wide range of styles and popular songs from the 1950s to the present day, Inflation has a wealth of experience providing top quality entertainment at golf clubs, hotels, private functions and weddings. Testimonials from previous engagements are available to see.

So, to make your function go with a swing, contact Inflation on 0207 2284813 or 07890 363380 for further information.

Hazelden takes charge at Burhill

Burhill Golf Club in Surrey has appointed Matthew Hazelden as its new general manager.

Formerly director of golf at Cottesmore Golf Club in West Sussex, Hazelden boasts over 25 years’ experience in the golf industry, including an 11-year stint as a touring professional, a highlight of which included playing in the Open Championship at Royal Troon in 2004.

Following the completion of his playing career in 2005, he was drawn to the business side of golf, and has since garnered a reputation as a progressive general manager at three prestigious venues.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to begin my tenure as general manager at Burhill,” said Hazelden. “It’s a club steeped in history, and with a great reputation, but somewhere I feel I can make my mark. I’ll be looking to improve the already-admirable member experience at the club, and I’m confident that my 25 years of experience within the golf industry will serve me well as I embark upon this very exciting challenge.”

Established in 1907, and located on the outskirts of Walton on Thames, Burhill features two 18-hole courses and a Georgian mansion clubhouse.

[15]

Shergo shows Shane the way at Woburn!

Among the celebrities and sporting legends in action at this month’s British Masters Pro-Am was another star in the making – Surrey junior Shergo Kurdi. The 12-year-old from Chertsey joined forces with world No.18 Shane Lowery in star-studded event held at Woburn, which preceded the British Masters.

Unfazed by the exhaulted company, having played in several pro-ams previously, including this year’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic, Kurdi showed why he has proved an unstoppable force amongst his own age group this year, as he helped is Pro-Am team take fourth place in the competition.

A member at Windlesham Golf Club, Kurdi has represented Surrey U12s and U13s teams this season, and won the Nike U12s Rookie Tour, after winning seven of the nine events he took part in, and finishing second in the others.

Other results saw him finish second in the Reigate Open, which was open to players under 18, and also won the Cottesmore Putter junior open, which was open to those under 14.

After having lessons with Tour coach and Master Professional David Burns, Kurdi has seen his handicap drop from nine to 5.1 in the last 12 months, and the youngster looks destined for further cuts as he continues his progress.

Shergo Kurdi with Shane Lowery at Woburn

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OCTOBER 2015

[16] OCTOBER 2015

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

MATT FORD’S

TOUR DIARY

IT’S CRUNCH TIME FOR MATT AS HE ENTERS THE FINAL FEW WEEKS OF HE SEASON NEEDING JUST ONE GOOD RESULT TO SECURE HIS CARD FOR NEXT YEAR

W

e’re into the final stretch now, and after missed cuts in the Porsche European Open and the Dunhill Links, I’m now one spot outside the Race to Dubai’s crucial top 110 for the first time since my runner-up finish in South Africa back in early March.

I played really well in the KLM Open, with four rounds in the 60s, but the scoring was very low, and I made a few silly mistakes here and there that cost me, so it was a little bit frustrating.

I finished T36th there, then played solidly tee to green next week in Italy, but didn’t putt that well to finish T44th, so more frustration there. My long game has been making steady progress, but as you all know, just as one area of your game improves, something else goes off, and for me it has been the putting.

I putted quite poorly in Munich, and not very well for the first two rounds up in Scotland. Then while I putted better in my third and final round there, my long game wasn’t quite as good. The courses and the weather were fantastic, so it was set up for a low scoring week,

but if you’re not hitting it close and not putting well, you’re never going to make much headway.

The whole Dunhill experience was a new thing for me, because you’ve got so much going on with the three different courses. I had to play three practice rounds, as I didn’t really know any of them, having only played St Andrews once about 15 years ago. That means you then don’t practise quite as much overall, as you’re travelling around a bit.

The format is a bit different too, with one pro and one amateur in a fourball betterball pair, and although I’m used playing in pro-ams, that did bring a slightly

different dynamic to proceedings.

None of that had anything to do with my performance in the end though, because it was just a matter of not hitting it close enough and not holing enough putts. But it’s a special event that’s very different to every other week, and I really enjoyed the tournament – if not the result.

So now I find myself outside the top 110 – but it wasn’t the Dunhill that pushed me out, so much as my ongoing performances. I knew that the money I had up on the board was

never going to be enough, and that I needed at least one or two more decent performances in the run for home.

Unfortunately I missed out on the British Masters at Woburn, as I was sixth reserve, but I’m playing the Portugal Masters and, fingers crossed, I’ll get into Hong Kong too. I would have taken this position at the start of the season, though. Yes, it is stressful too – but that’s just part of this job!

It was really disappointing to miss out on Woburn, as events on home soil are rare these days,

Just as one area of your game improves, something else goes off, and for me it has been the putting

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and it would have been great to get a few friends and family up there to support me. But it wasn’t to be, and my focus now is just trying to play good golf for the rest of what’s left of the season, and trying to put thoughts about my Race to Dubai ranking out of my head.

I don’t want to think about the downside, but even if I finished, say, 115th I’d be guaranteed around 15-20 tour events next year, so I have got that to fall back on should the worst come to the worst.

The new season starts pretty much straight after Dubai, with back-to-back events in South Africa and Australia, then nothing until January. I wouldn’t be guaranteed those two starts, but you can’t imagine the top players going from Dubai to South Africa to Australia, so I’d say there’s a pretty good chance of getting into those two events either way.

But you just can’t tell. I thought I was going to get into the Hong Kong Open pretty easily, but at the moment I’m still 19th reserve, though there are lots of people on the list who may not play if they get into the Final Series. So we’ll just have to wait and see on that. In the meantime, here’s hoping for the big week I need!

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The Adeventure Course at Hoebridge Golf Centre

Golf group boss laments lack of child-friendly facilities The chief executive of one of the UK’s largest golf groups has expressed dissatisfaction with the way junior golfers are still being treated at many clubs in this country.

Colin Mayes, chief executive of BGL Golf, which owns 10 golf clubs, most of which are located in the south east, has said that more clubs need to invest in child-friendly facilities, including adventure golf, to attract youngsters to their venues.

“Successful clubs have realised they need to engage with youth,” said Mayes, who is also chairman of the UK Golf Course Owners Association. “Many clubs used to disregard young people. There are still some clubs out there today who discriminate against juniors, and it fills me with horror every time I go in and see examples of that.”

He continued: “The fact is that a business that is suffering from a decline in participation numbers should be as open as possible to attract customers from all age groups and genders.

We want people coming to our facilities. That’s the crux of the matter, so we need to reduce all those barriers, wherever we see them.”

BGL Golf currently has four adventure golf venues – three at golf clubs (Abbey Hill in Milton Keynes, Hoebridge in Surrey and Ramsdale near Nottingham) and

a fourth at a retail and leisure centre in Castleford.

“We started to get involved with adventure golf because Colin Mayes we thought it would be a good way to attract more children to our facilities,” he said.

“We wanted them to come along with their parents, or their grandparents, and see for themselves that taking up golf, and enjoying the challenge of golf, is a family activity and something everyone can do.

I think, when most people who don’t play golf see a golf club, they automatically think it’s private and reserved for members. We all know within the industry that’s not actually the case, but that’s the perception and one of the issues we have to address in golf. We need to work harder to let people know they are welcome and that’s something adventure golf has helped us to do.”

Mayes added that attracting juniors to a club is far more than simply offering adventure golf – and it starts with being a welcoming facility. “One of the key things is just having a welcoming attitude,” he said.

GILFORD MAKES SENIOR DEBUT IN FRANCE Former Ryder Cup David Gilford made his debut on the European Senior Tour at the French Riviera Masters earlier this month.

Gilford, who turned 50 on September 28, wasted no time in taking up membership of the tour, and made an instant impact, finishing 26th at Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort in Provence, in a rain-effected event that was reduced to 36 holes.

“I am looking forward to the competition and meeting up with some of my former colleagues on the European Tour,” admitted Gilford. “I don’t think we ever lose that competitive edge, and Paul Broadhurst underlined that at Archerfield a few weeks ago.”

Gilford arrives on the Senior Tour with a strong pedigree, having played in two Ryder Cups and with six European Tour titles to his name, including the European Open at East Sussex National in 1994.

In recent years, he has played in the odd Pro-Am and mini-tour events after winding down his main Tour career. “There comes a time when you get too old or just not good enough to compete on the main Tour. I reached the stage

David Gilford in action on his Senior debut

when I didn’t fancy facing 25 year olds hitting the ball 40 yards past me. That’s what is great about the Senior Tour – it offers a chance to start all over again at 50 and to get the competitive juices flowing again.”

Gilford will always remember his two Ryder Cup appearances, at Kiawah Island in 1991 and at Oak Hill four years later, for very contrasting reasons. The first ended in defeat, with Gilford being the unlucky European to be in the envelope who missed out on the singles when Steve Pate was injured. The second was a rousing victory, with Gilford contributing three points out of four.

Hanbury unveils new indoor swing studio Hertfordshire-based Marriot Hotel and Country Club Hanbury Manor has opened a new golf swing studio.

The studio, which includes a golf simulator and Foresight launch monitor, also features a pool table

and is available for hire for those wishing to use the room in a social capacity, as well as for golf events.

The studio also provides an additional facility for the club’s PGA golf professionals to use for teaching and custom fitting.

Stan Power, Director of Golf at Hanbury Manor, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, said: “We’re thrilled about the addition of the new swing studio to the existing facilities here at Hanbury. The Foresight launch monitor will enable our teaching staff to deliver an exceptional service with regards to both club fittings and tuition.”

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WALLIS SEES OFF SANDWICH RIVALS North Foreland’s Richard Wallis won the PGA Sandwich Links Championship, supported by Callaway and Shepherd Neame, shooting a level par 142 for the two rounds on the Kentish links at Prince’s and Royal St. George’s in Sandwich. The four-time Virgin Atlantic PGA South Order of Merit winner led the event from the start to finish with rounds of 68 and 74, leaving Chris Gane and Benn Barham to fill the minor places. The two day Pro-Am event attracted 26 teams from all over the UK, and even from as far away as Hollland.

COOPER CLEANS UP AT STONEHAM Tilgate Forest’s Lea Cooper shot a seven-under-par 65 to win the Stoneham Pro-Am. Cooper’s super low round at the Hampshire venue earned him one of the season’s largest winner’s cheques for £1,500.

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[18] OCTOBER 2015 | NEWS

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Pin High appoints new course manager to turn around Traditions’

WALKER CUP HEROES START PRO CAREERS Five of the stars of Great Britain & Ireland’s recent Walker Cup triumph have turned professional. England players Ashley Chesters and Jimmy Mullen, and Ireland’s Paul Dunne, Gavin Moynihan and Gary Hurley, have all joined the paid ranks. Chesters and Dunne made their pro debuts in the Dunhill Links Championship, while Moynihan played in last month’s Italian Open. Mullen, from Royal North Devon, made his first appearance as a pro at the Volopa Irish Challenge in Carlow.

JOY TO LEAVE ENGLAND GOLF David Joy, the chief executive of England Golf, is to leave the organisation at the end of this year to become the chief executive of British Canoeing.

He announced his resignation to England Golf’s board on September 28 and will take up his new appointment in January next year. Joy joined England Golf in April 2013, following the merger of the former English Golf Union and English Women’s Golf Association. During his tenure, he oversaw the launch of the England Golf Strategic Plan, Raising Our Game, whose aim is to encourage all those involved in the sport to work together to create a stronger future for the game.

ST ANDREWS ON TOP AT ESSENDON A battle between the UK’s top university, college and school golf teams saw the side from St Andrews University take the honours, following a closelyfought contest at Essendon Country Club in Hertfordshire.

The format of the inaugural Alexander Quin Invitational saw nine teams of four players take part in a 54-hole scratch event, which showcases the wealth of talent currently studying at educational establishments in the UK. The team trophy went to St Andrews with a two-over-par total for 54 holes, with the best three scores from four counting for each round.

Birkdale College finished six shots in second.

HEVER WINS KENT 4SOMES Hever Castle’s men’s team captured the North Kent Foursomes for the third time in five years after beating Tunbridge Wells 3.5-1.5 in the final held at Shooters Hill Golf Club in Greenwich.

Foxhills celebrates four decades of offering fun for all the family As part of its 40th anniversary celebrations, 13 past captains were welcomed back to Foxhills Club and Resort in Surrey earlier this month to take part in a special match over the club’s Bernard Jason Adams and Marc Hayton Hunt course.

The group enjoyed four-balls on the championship layout, followed by a black club in 1975, tie dinner in The Library in Foxhills’ Manor developing House. over the last One of a handful of golf clubs to have few decades Foxhills’ past captains only one golf captain at any time – with the to become a responsibility of overseeing men, ladies, luxury resort. seniors and juniors ­– Foxhills has been at the Marc Hayton, Foxhills’ managing director, forefront of breaking down gender and age said when his father Ian bought the club in barriers during its 40-year history, with three 1983, after selling Pennyhill Park in Bagshot, women holding the illustrious position. This they had just 300 members. That number has year’s captain, Phil Hadfield, is 37 years old, since grown to 3,000. making him one of the youngest golf club “When he bought Pennyhill Park, it was a captains in the UK. small hotel,” he said. “Dad added a country Jason Adams, Foxhill’s general manager, club to the hotel and created a membership said: “Being able to host so many and community feel. When he sold it, and accomplished golfers with such a close Foxhills became available, he already had in connection to Foxhills was a real treat for us. mind the feel of what a country club could Congratulations must go to Dave Yabsley, who be. The economics of having a membership won the event with a score of 35 points. Our appealed to him. new captain, Phil Hadfield, has big shoes to “I remember coming here with Dad, and we fill, and we look forward to supporting his were in the car park on a Saturday lunchtime efforts as he represents the wider Foxhills and saw all these middle-aged men putting golfing community.” their golf clubs away and checking their Foxhills has hosted numerous events to watches. He knew they were going home to celebrate its 40th anniversary during the their family for lunch, and thought if he could course of the year, while next month sees the bring the family here then the wallet would Surrey venue offering 40 of its guest rooms for stay at Foxhills.” just £40 per night for all stays in November.

Hayton said one of his father’s main aims The family-owned country club opened was making it ‘family friendly’, and now the ‘resort hotline’ on October 13 and gave the Ottershaw-based club has 1,000 junior the rooms away to the first 40 callers who members, and more female members than rang through and quoted ‘FOXY40’. The offer male. To cater for the younger members, the is part of a year-long series of events and old spa building on site was converted into a celebrations to mark the four decades since clubhouse for children, complete with table the Ottershaw-based venue was transformed football, Playstations and air hockey machine, from private family home into a hotel and which sits alongside a junior gym and exercise golf club. timetable.

After serving as a convalescent home for The company increased its portfolio in wounded officers during First World War, 2010, when it purchased Farleigh Golf Club the estate had gradually declined in the in Warlingham, which it has subsequently 1960s, and was sold and turned into a golf invested over £5 million in transforming.

Traditions Golf Course in Surrey has appointed Steven Haire as its new head greenkeeper.

Haire was previously the course manager at Oakland in Steven Haire Basingstoke, and has enjoyed spells at several top club in the UK, including Ealing in West London and The Grove.

Traditions, which is located in West Byfleet, was bought in the summer by Pin High Golf, which has outlined plans for a major investment in the 6,300-yard parkland course, which first opened in 1999 and was designed by Peter Alliss and Clive Clark.

Haire said is aim is to take Traditions back to its glory days by improving the greens, the drainage, and overseeing the planned on course projects.

Speaking about the challenges ahead, Haire said: “I’m delighted to join the team at Traditions, as I believe we have the foundations of a great product that I’m confident, with a little love and care, along with the right investment by Pin High, we can produce a course to be proud of. Right now, the greens are my priority, and they have recently undergone extensive work for the first time in a couple of years.”

Three-way tie at Epsom Pro-Am There was a three-way tie at the top of the leaderboard at Epsom ’s annual pro-am. A total of 41 teams took part in the tournament, which saw the professional hnours shared by Ben Cummings, Robert Gowers and Richard NeilJones, who each took home a cheque for £750 after shooting matching 68s.

The amateur event was won by by the team from Olympic Security, comprising Jamie O’Sullivan, Mark Bridgman, Sid Drapper and pro David Osbourn.

A sensational 20 under par score saw them finish five shots clear of their nearest challengers, and collect the prize of a golf holiday to Spain donated by CostaLess Golf, as well as Callaway golf bags.

Walkley retains Hampshire crown Hayling Island’s Darren Walkley retained the Hampshire Isle of Wight and Channel Island Golf Union Order of Merit title following another successful season on the region’s amateur circuit.

The 24-year-old Hayling man finished 19 points clear of North Hants’ teenager Billy Watson, after he pipped Ben Wall by just four points in 2014.

Walkley’s fifth-place finish in the Courage Trophy at Corhampton saw him pick up eight bonus points for his score in the Cole Scuttle – the trophy for the best 72-hole aggregate in the two rounds in qualifying at the county

championship at Brokenhurst Manor, in June, and the Courage.

With the points awarded for the best five results in the 11 qualifying events, Walkley’s successful defence of the Delhi Trophy at Hockley, coupled with his fourth-place finish at Brokenhurst, put the 25-year-old in pole position.

Speaking about his back-to-back titles, Walkley said: “I am delighted to have retained the position as Hampshire’s number one amateur. I didn’t think about the Order of Merit at the start of the season, as I had my heart set on playing in a few other national events,

but it’s been a fantastic year, winning my first county championship, and to have my name as the first two winners on the Order of Merit trophy is a great feeling.”

Walkley credits the switch to playing at Hayling as being crucial in the transformation of his game in recent seasons. He said: “Four years ago I was playing off seven at Southsea, before I moved to Hayling.

The golf course has helped transform my game – along with all the hard work with my coach Mark Treleaven, the head pro at Hayling. I am now down to plus-three.”

[20] OCTOBER 2015

“I NEED TO GET THE OLD ME BACK” As Father Time catches up with Ian Poulter and his generation of English stars, Alistair Tait asks whether Mr Ryder Cup’s best days are behind him, or if he has a last hurrah or two left in the locker

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European Tour’s schedule, and 13 hole my fair share of putts,” Poulter says. years since it was last at Woburn, the “It’s back to the drawing board now, I’ve POULTER British Masters went off without a got to try to see my lines. Some weeks

BY NUMBERS hitch. Poulter threw a great party for you just can’t see the right lines, you the 57,000 fans who walked around the can’t visualise the ball going in the hole, AGE: 39 Marquess Course all week. He just wasn’t and that puts the rest of your game BORN: Hitchin, celebrating his own game when he left to under pressure to hit it close. We all rely Hertfordshire return to his home in Florida. on putting, we all hit it well from tee “It’s just a shame,” he laments. to green, but unless you hole the putts LIVES: Orlando, Florida “Obviously I couldn’t do it this week. you are not going to win tournaments.

TURNED PRO: 1995 My game is not quite there. I need to go I’ve had great times and won great WINS: 16 (12 Euro, 2 home, sit down, and have a real good tournaments but my putting has held me PGA Tour, 4 others) think about my game, and see how I’m back. I need to work harder on that, and RECENT WINS: WGCgoing to get it back.” put in even more hours.”

HSBC Champions Poulter hasn’t won since the WGC– He’s going to need to find that touch (2012), Volvo World HSBC Champions in 2012. Nearly three on the greens soon if he is to stay inside Match Play (2011) years without a win is a surprising the world’s top 50 – where he has CAREER EARNINGS: statistic for a player who between 2000 been since 2006. His British Masters’ €23m (Euro), $17m and 2012 only went two years without performance dropped him down to (PGA) a victory (2005, 2008). “I’m not a great 46th in the rankings, and any further golfer, but I know how to win,” Poulter demotion this season will see him BEST MAJOR FINISHES: once said. That statement seems a bit struggling to play on both the European Masters 6th, US Open hollow these days. and PGA Tours, as invites to the Majors 12th, Open 2nd, PGA “It’s been difficult, and that’s hard and World Golf Championship events will 3RD to take from someone who has begin to dry up. prided themselves on winning a lot of “My world ranking has gone down, consecutive years in a row, but I have to deal with that,” and I’m not happy about that,” he says. “I’ve suffered a says Poulter, who turns 40 in January. “The only way few injuries over the last 18 months or two years, which of dealing with that properly is going out there and has caused my ranking to drop, so obviously I need winning.” to manage that situation. I need to get myself back in That’s why he was hoping home course advantage position because the golf I played at the start of the would help him win the British Masters. Far from year was superb.” looking like one of the marquee players, Poulter hit The latter half of this season, and the start of next two shanks during the week and at times played like a year, might be just one of the most crucial periods of journeyman pro, rather than the star of the show.

Poulter’s 20-year professional career, which has yielded Yet the former Hitchin man had begun the season 16 wins and over £24 million in prize money. well. He should have won the PGA Tour’s Honda Classic Currently ranked 50th in the Race to Dubai, a good in March. Leading after 54-holes, he put five balls in run in the European Tour’s Final Series – the top 60 water hazards in the final round, and limped off with a qualify for this lucrative run of four tournaments – will two-over-par 74 to miss a playoff by one shot. see him safely back in the comfort zone of the world’s He then finished sixth in the Masters, raising hopes top 50. of a revival, but has been treading water for most of the Although he’s a loyal Englishman right down to season, with some especially poor performances in the his diehard Arsenal roots, if push came to shove, majors – 54th in the US Open, and missed cuts at the then Poulter might opt to play the PGA Tour over the Open Championship and the US PGA Championship.

European circuit if he drops outside the top 50, since “I feel certain areas of my game have let me down,” he’s built a life in the United States with wife Katie and he says. “I’ve had my chances and I’ve kind of thrown children Aimee-Leigh, Luke, Lily-Mai Grace and Joshua. them away. I need to get the old me back. I need to be a Only a fool would bet on Poulter sliding so far down bit more ruthless, and I need to have that killer instinct the world rankings so that he couldn’t play in the out on the golf course.” game’s marquee events, and that’s the message he sent Despite the occasional shank off the tee, it is on his fans from Woburn. the greens that Poulter seems most uncomfortable “My game, when I’m on my game, is good enough to these days. After missing back-to-back cuts in the beat anybody. I know that and still believe that. Inside Scottish Open and the Open, he put his sub-standard my head I still believe that my good is good enough. If performances down to a lack of belief with the ever that gets dented then we’ve got an issue. And at shortest club in the bag. the moment I really don’t see an issue.”

“I thought I played well tee to green, but I didn’t In other words, don’t write Ian James Poulter off just yet.

My game, when it’s on, is good enough to beat anybody. I know that, and I still believe that.

[21]

PHOTO: PIERS CUNLIFFE

A

t the beginning of the year, when tour rookie Matthew Fitzpatrick was struggling with his game, having missed six of his first eight cuts on the European Tour, Ian Poulter texted the youngster some words of advice.

His words of wisdom were simple.

“I just told him to keep working hard, and to keep doing what he was doing, because I knew he had the talent to win out here,” Poulter says.

Six months later, with Fitzpatrick having banked over £1million in prize money and won the British Masters at Woburn, the tournament that Poulter himself hosted, it might be Fitzpatrick texting his former mentor some handy hints on how to win golf tournaments.

The 39-year-old Ryder Cup star could certainly do with some of what Fitzpatrick is channelling right now.

Despite having grown up playing Woburn, and knowing the Marquess course like the back of his hand, Poulter struggled to land a blow in the revived British Masters, finishing a lowly 33rd, and some 11 shots behind the 21 year old winner.

To be fair, he did have an excuse – he was acting as host to Europe’s elite at Woburn, where he has been the attached touring professional since finishing second to Justin Rose in the 2002 British Masters.

No wonder he was as nervous as an actor worrying about his lines before the curtain goes up when play got under way on October 8. And this from a man who once claimed he never got nervous. Yet he admits to suffering from a severe bout of stage fright just before he teed off at Woburn in front of several thousand fans.

“I’d spent a lot of time helping to get the tournament off the ground. I cared about it, and I cared about how I played in front of all those fans,” he says. “I was just happy to see that first 3-wood find the middle of the fairway!”

He adds: “I haven’t had that feeling in a long time. It was literally two minutes before teeing off.

I had big responsibilities, lots of things to do, lots of commitments. You have to manage those nerves, but it’s not a bad thing to have a buzz on that first tee.”

Poulter needn’t have worried. After a seven-year absence from the

OCTOBER 2015

[22] OCTOBER 2015 | STORY BEHIND THE PIC

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STORY BEHIND THE PIC RYDER CUP | ROYAL BIRKDALE | SEPTEMBER 20, 1969

W

hile the fallout from Suzann Pettersen’s refusal to concede Alison Lee’s short putt at last month’s Solheim Cup continues to be discussed in clubhouses across the world, it is would be remiss not to recount the tale of another equally controversial decision on the greens that showed golf, and one player in particular, in a rather more positive light.

After three days of fiercely fought matchplay golf at the 1969 Ryder Cup at Royal Birkdale, the US and European team scores stood level at 151/2-151/2 as the final singles pair, Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin, walked onto the 18th tee, with their own match all square.

Jacklin had won the Open Championship just three months earlier and was the GB&I’s team’s talisman, while the 29-year-old Nicklaus, who already had seven majors to his name, was anchoring the singles leg for the Americans. The matches had been dramatically close for the first two days. On the final day, when 16 singles matches were played, GB&I charged into the lead, winning five of the eight morning matches to take a 13-11 lead. But the afternoon saw a now familiar US fightback, with the visitors winning four of the

first six games to level the scores.

Brian Huggett managed to halve his match against Billy Caspar in the seventh rubber, leaving the outcome of the match resting on the shoulders of Nicklaus and Jacklin.

As they drove down the 18th fairway all-square, Nicklaus asked the Open champion if he was nervous. “Bloody petrified,” Jacklin returned. They both hit good second shots on to the green. Jacklin settled about 30 feet from the hole. Nicklaus was conspicuously nearer. To a hushed gallery, Jacklin putted first and left the ball some two feet short, prompting huge groans from the crowd.

Nicklaus, putting for the trophy, sent his ball five feet past the hole, not losing his turn. Having missed four putts of similar distance in the morning, he could have been forgiven for missing a fifth under such stressful circumstance, but the Golden Bear calmly holed the comeback putt and picked the ball out of the hole, seemingly leaving the stage free for Jacklin to either hole the putt and secure the first tie in Ryder Cup history, or miss it and consign Europe to yet another narrow defeat.

But, while he was bending down to pick his ball out of the hole he reached over and picked up Jacklin’s marker, thus

conceding the putt. He then handed back the marker to Jacklin and put his arms around him in a sporting embrace.

“I didn’t think you were going to miss that putt, but I didn’t want to give you the opportunity,” Nicklaus said to Jacklin, as they shook hands by the hole amid chaotic reactions from both sides.

America retained the trophy, having won it previously in 1967, but while the sporting gesture was loudly praised around in neutral quarters, Nicklaus’s US teammates weren’t quite so supportive. Billy Caspar was

WINTER SOCIETY

heard to remark, “We worked so hard to get to where we were, and then to have that be the finalisation of the Ryder Cup – iIt was quite a sensation for everyone concerned,’ while US team captain Sam Snead was famously reported to have said, “All the boys thought it was ridiculous to give him that putt.

We went over there to win, not to be good ol’ boys.”

Good ol’ boys or not, Nicklaus’s concession was a sporting finish to a Ryder Cup that had already been rife with countless controversies. Though he rescinded his edict before play

began, European captain Eric Brown initially directed his players not to help opponents look for their golf balls in the deep rough at Royal Birkdale, while a rules dispute between two players during the Friday afternoon’s fourballs nearly ended in a fistfight. Matchplay has that effect on some people.

While a punch up was narrowly avoided at last month’s Solheim Cup, the unedifying scenes that took place at St Leon Rot will hopefully serve as reminder that we are all the poorer when we let the spirit of fair play desert us in the white heat of competition.

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Lizzie Prior

Prior tops national Junior Order of Merit Surrey’s Lizzie Prior confirmed her status as the best junior female player in the country by topping the 2015 England Girls’ Order of Merit.

The Burhill golfer’s success was highlighted by victories at the Sunningdale Critchley Salver, Roehampton Gold Cup and Fairhaven Trophy, with her impressive play earning her a place in the England team at both the German Girls Championship and the European Girls Team Championship.

While her fine form this year has seen her top the Girls’ Order of Merit by more than 35,000 points, Prior also finished eighth on the England Women’s Order of Merit and competed in a men’s EuroPro tournament at Burhill.

Having recently taken up a full golf scholarship at the University of Nevada in Las Vegas, the plus-three handicapper spoke about how pivotal Burhill’s Junior Development Programme has been to her success.

“It’s a huge honour to have won the Girls’ Order of Merit,” she said. “While it’s the perfect way to cap off what’s been a great year for me, and I hope to continue to improve and develop as I begin my collegiate career at university in America.”

She added: “The support and encouragement that I’ve received from everyone at Burhill over the past 10 years has provided me with the perfect platform to achieve success on a national level. In particular, I owe a lot to the junior development programme.”

King reigns supreme at Saadiyat Surrey tour pro Gary King birdied the first extra hole to win the MENA Golf Tour’s Abu Dhabi Open held at Saadiyat Beach.

Three shots in front after rounds of 67 and 68, the Tyrells Wood player closed with a level-par 72, and sunk a 35-foot birdie putt on the final hole to force a playoff against Essex-based amateur James Allan, who closed with a 69.

Both players hit the green in regulation at the first extra hole, with Allan settling for par, while King held his nerve to hole his birdie putt from 10 feet to claim his first win on the tour in four appearances.

“I kept my composure, and never allowed the situation to get the better of me, and that was the key,” said a delighted King, after receiving the winner’s trophy and a cheque for $9,000.

King, who trailed by two shots at one stage, felt it was his birdie on the 15th that hauled him back into contention

GOUGH WINS BB&O CHAMPS AT 16

and kept the momentum going thereafter. “I hit my five-wood from 240 yards and holed the ensuing short putt, which was crucial. Standing on the 18th tee, I was one shot behind, but got a bit lucky when I holed that long putt.

I think James really played very well, and it’s just a matter of time before he starts winning on the tour. He such a hot prospect,” said King, who earlier this season won two events on the EuroPro Tour.

England stars set sights on greens not goals England’s football squad is looking forward to enjoying a few holes of golf between training sessions in the not too distant future, following the decision to build a golf course at the Football Association’s national football centre at St George’s Park in Staffordshire.

A number of England players, including former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, have criticised the £105m centre for offering nothing for the players to do between training, saying that other facilities were needed to help with team bonding off the pitch. As a result, the centre’s manager has confirmed that plans are now underway to build a nine-hole golf course at the venue.

“We have been working on plans including the provision of a golf course,” said Julie Harrington. “We have a long-term vision of how to improve and develop the site further.”

The 330-acre site opened in 2012 as a base for all 24 England football teams at

Ricki Neil-Jones

Stoke Park’s John Gough became the youngest ever winner of the BB&O’s county championship after he beat former champion John Kemp by five shots at Ellesborough Golf Club. The 16 year old, who plays off a plus-one handicap, fired rounds of 70, 64, 69 and 72 for a gross aggregate total of 275, which saw him finish five strokes clear of Kemp. Gough’s Stoke Park teammates Tom Lawson and Kevin Freeman filled third and fourth places.

OXFORD LADIES THROUGH TO MAIL FINALS England’s training centre is to have a golf course built

various levels, and includes a grass replica of Wembley. It is thought the nine-hole golf course will be built to the rear of the grounds.

“It’s an unbelievable site, but they need to make it a little bit friendlier for the players,” Gerrard said. “It’s a top place to train and prepare, but away from training pitch and the games, it can be boring. We need to create that atmosphere where England players are desperate to get away and do well. When you get to England, you want to have your lunch and go to bed and keep away from everyone because there’s a shyness. There needs to be an England atmosphere when you turn up and you know each other, you want to be with each other.”

Lydd steps in as Neil-Jones captures Kent Trainees’ title Hilden Park Golf Centre’s Ricki Neil-Jones celebrated some of his best form this year by winning The PGA in Kent Trainees Championship with a two-underpar 69 at Lydd Golf Club in Kent.

Just 24 hours before the first shot was struck, Lydd stepped in to host the new event on the PGA in Kent calendar, after the original venue became waterlogged due to heavy rain over the previous 48 hours and was forced to close. Whilst Lydd

NEWS IN BRIEF

was wet in places, the linksstyle greens still presented near perfect putting surfaces.

Neil-Jones birdied the last hole to hold off the determined challenge of Royal Cinque Port’s Marcus Lester, who was the only other player in the 25-strong field to shoot under par on the par-71 course.

Neil-Jones, who has enjoyed a solid run of form over the summer, took home the £500 winner’s cheque, thanks

to the PGA in Kent’s new supporter Watchfinder, plus an UnderArmour waterproof suit.

He said: “Winning here crowns a nice run of form for me, and I’m just chuffed to notch up a win here among the rest of the county. We are all really grateful to the Kent PGA Committee for providing the platform for an event like this for Trainees in Kent to play in. Likewise, a big thanks to Lydd for enabling us to actually play!”

Oxford Ladies have earned a visit to Spain after enjoying a sensational run in the Mail on Sunday Classic.

They beat Benton Hall 3-2 in the quarter-finals – their ninth victory in this year’s competition – to send them to the final four. The semifinals and final is being played at the Precise Golf Resort El Rompido, near Huelva, in November.

LEFTIES LIFT TOP PRIZE AT PUTTENHAM James Ablett and Chris Gane shared the honours in the Puttenham Pro-Am, shooting two-under-par 69s. Ablett had a fault-free round with two early birdies at the second and the fourth and pars everywhere else, while Gane’s round was somewhat more adventurous with five birdies, offset by three bogeys. Hassocks’ Russell Buxton shot 70 for third place.

[24] OCTOBER 2015 | PAGE NAME

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ASPECT PARK GOLF CLUB JEREMY ELLWOOD RECOUNTS THE SUDDEN DEMISE OF ASPECT PARK GOLF CLUB IN OXFORDSHIRE, AND MEETS A WOMAN WHO HAS RETAINED AN INTEREST IN THE MAINTAINING THE FRIENDSHIPS THAT THE CLUB HELPED FORGE

W

hile researching Aspect Park’s history, I stumbled on a website for former members of the Henley-based club. I’d heard of the club because of its unusual name, and quickly discovered that it opened as a nine-holer in 1989, growing to 18 within a few years, but came to an abrupt end in October 2005, with members given the heartbreaking news that April that their beloved club was to close.

A few days later I found myself chatting to Aspect Park Golf Society secretary Barbara Langdale, at her new club at Hennerton, who happily filled me in with some of the details.

“It started off as a family concern for an architect named Tim Winsland,” she explained. “He built it with the help of John Martin. It started as a nine-hole course, although it was always in Tim’s mind to get it to 18.”

The course was laid out over parkland surrounding Park Place, with the growth to 18 coinciding with Barbara’s time as lady captain in 1994. “I remember being in council meetings trying to get planning permission through,” Barbara recalled. “I was the ‘average lady golfer’ they called on to work out where the red tees should be –

plans were thrown out, as there was no affordable housing. We were rubbing our hands with glee, but we knew it was never going to go back to being our golf course.”

The club staged a final competition in October that year, although many members had already left to settle in elsewhere.

“I stayed right to the bitter end,” Barbara says. “I think there were about 50 of us left for that farewell competition. There were a few tears,

THEN

so it was really quite intriguing to be involved at that stage.”

The original nine was quite compact, with the new nine much more spread out over the ancient parkland. The length of the new layout, which was opened by Bernard Gallacher in 1996, was 6,595 yards. The club had a strong focus on family membership, and became a very friendly, close-knit set-up. So, with so much going for it, and still 600 members at the turn on the century, where did it all go wrong? Well, Winsland moved away and left the club in the capable hands of Theo Ziffo, with Barrelfield, a golf management company with a network of clubs across the UK, appointed to run it.

All seemed well, but in April 2005,

members received the bombshell news from the owner of Park Place that the course was to close in six months. I asked if the land was only leased back then. “We weren’t privy to that kind of information,” Barbara replied. “Their idea was for a Wentworth-style estate, but the

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as none of us wanted to leave.”

But leave they had too, with gates and fences quickly erected so they couldn’t even walk on the land, though Barbara never had any desire to do so. “There wasn’t bad feeling,” she recalled, “just such disappointment.”

The APGS has helped Aspect Park live on beyond its 26 years, with the society continuing to meet several times a year, sometimes playing for one of the club’s original trophies that were auctioned off on closure.

“We’ve got members all over the world who keep in touch via the website,” Barbara said. “Anyone who used to be a member of Aspect Park is a member of the society.”

What a lovely idea, I thought, as Barbara drove me round to the par5 10th. I was worried about opening old wounds, but she seemed fine as we gazed back up a hole that stretched to 559 yards. “I loved this hole,” she told me. “I loved the green, because it was almost enclosed in a bowl, with bunkers all round it. It played down a gentle slope then back up.”

She pointed out where the long par-3 11th played, and the par-5 8th, which some regarded as a signature hole. Nothing has really been done with the land yet, although the former clubhouse has been razed to the ground. “We could have gone on forever, given what’s happened to the land since,” Barbara reflected.

“But it’s fate isn’t it? I wouldn’t have gone to Hennerton then.”

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NEWS | OCTOBER 2015 [25]

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England claim silver at Spirit International A superb closing 62 from Dorset’s Hayley Davis and Yorkshire’s Bronte Law won the women’s silver medal for England at the Spirit International Amateur Championship in America.

The tournament, Hayley Davis celebrates which is played in holing a birdie putt alternate years, features some of the world’s best amateurs drawn from 20 countries.

David and Law’s betterball score of 10-under par was the low round of the tournament, and moved them up five places and into the medals.

They finished on 17-under for the 54-hole event at Whispering Pines in Texas, four behind the champions, Mexico, and two ahead of Finland, Spain, Sweden and Japan, who all tied third.

Davis, who is a member at Ferndown Golf Club, started with a birdie on the first hole and Law signed off with one on the 18th. They had a total of 12 birdies in the round, doubling up on the 10th and 11th.

Both players are students at American universities, with Davies studying at Baylor and Law at UCLA. Law is the reigning English amateur champion, while Davis has previously held the title, and both are England and GB&I internationals.

Their score also helped England into a share of fifth place on the mixed international leaderboard.

The men’s team of Scott Gregory (Corhampton) and Jonathan Thomson (Lindrick) were 13th in their event on 11-under par. The overall team score was 28-under and they tied fifth with Sweden.

ORDER YOUR 2016 SOCIETY GUIDE NOW! The Ultimate Guide to Society & Company Golf has been must-have publication for every golf society organisers for many a year.

Featuring many of the UK’s finest clubs and courses, predominantly located in the South East, this indispensible handy full-colour publication provides all the information you’ll ever need to make your golf day a success.

Among details included are up-to-date prices and packages for societies and visitors, information on tee time restrictions, comprehensive directions and local accommodation tips, as well as detailed descriptions of all the courses, with full colour photographs.

As well as being available in print format, the 2016 guide will also be available to view and download from the Golf News website – www.golfnews.co.uk – or from golfdayguide.com, making it even more user-friendly.

To pre-order your copy of The Guide to Society & Company Golf, email your name and address to: info@golfnews.co.uk, with ‘Society Guide’ in the subject line.

Families taking part in the Glendale Golf Festival at Richmond Park in London

NEWS IN BRIEF CALLAWAY AND CARTWIGHT CLEAN UP AT COPTHORNE

Glendale festival proves a smash hit Glendale Golf, which operates seven public golf centres across the UK, is celebrating after a recent golf festival attracted well over 700 newcomers to its facilities.

The month-long festival sought to banish golf’s stuffy image, and attract at least 100 first-time golfers to each centre. By the end of August over 2,000 people had made their first visit to a Glendale Golf centre, with nearly 1,000 trying the game for the first time.

Star performers were Tilgate Forest in West Sussex, which created over 200 new golfers, and Richmond Park in London, where 173 people hit a golf ball for the very first time.

Events also took place outside of the clubs, with Tilgate Forest’s professional, Lea Cooper, giving 90 free taster lessons in a single day at Tilgate Park.

The Glendale golf centres at Portsmouth, Beckenham and Castle Point in Essex each also attracted over 100 first-time visitors during the Festival.

The centres laid on live music events, craft fairs, children’s attractions and other family entertainment, enlivening the venues alongside the golf camps, free beginner lessons, and family fun golf challenges, which encouraged people to have their first go at golf.

“It was a knockout success,” said Tom Brooke, Glendale’s managing director. “Seeing our golf centres brimming with new faces this summer put everybody on a high, and our people did a superlative job in getting so many people to try golf for the first time. It proves that golf can still get people off their sofas if you make it fun enough. Across our golf centres we provided hundreds of them with free outdoor entertainment for their children this summer, and they embraced it.

Now, we must follow up on this terrific start, and work on persuading people to come back again and again, and to take their first steps on the main golf course.”

Teachers Cup is no Mickey Mouse event!

Earlier this month saw over 200 members of the World Golf Teachers Federation gather at the Disney The Magnolia Course at the Disney Resort Resort in Florida to take part in the is the venue for this year’s Teachers’ Cup 12th World Golf Teachers Cup. The biennial tournament saw players from over 25 countries converge on the Florida resort’s Magnolia and Palms courses to pit their skills against each other in a series of hotly contested team and individual events held over four days.

Like the Presidents Cup, the tournament rotates between being hosted in America and an international destination every other year, with the 2013 renewal having been held in Shanghai, where the hosts ran out convincing winners.

The World Golf Teachers Cup is a unique event in golfing circles, with each country given the chance to put forward up to six players per team, while those not representing a country can compete as individuals.

As well as golf competitions, the week is also given over to networking events and seminars, where top coaches and leading experts present their latest teaching methods, while a number of demo days give teachers the chance to try out the latest golf equipment and training aids.

There are also a host of social events organised after golf, where guests can gather informally to talk the issues of the day, or relive their rounds, with teachers from all over the world in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

To find out how you could join the World Golf Teachers Federation, and take part in the 2017 World Golf Teachers Cup, please visit www.wgtf.com

David Callaway (Foxhills) and Stuart Cartwright (World of Golf) showed a strong field a clean pair of heels at the Copthorne Pro-Am, both shooting three-underpar 69s to share the spoils.

Between them they notched up 11 birdies around the challenging Sussex course, which boasts a new layout following some routing changes. Cartwright produced two birdie-bogey-birdie bursts in seven holes to be two-under at the turn, and then parred all the holes back, save the 13th where he made one more birdie, for his 69. Callaway had six birdies, but a lone bogey at the 16th, following a flyer out of the rough, saw him sharing the win with Cartwright.

ARMY PULLS RANK AT HAYLING’S ADDISON BOWL Hayling Island Golf Club’s Addisson Bowl was won by the three-man team representing the Army Golf Club. Simon Pitcher, Kim West and Hayden Reay-Inter finished second, seventh and ninth respectively in the gross competition, and combined to shoot a score of 434 (10over par) for two rounds in breezy conditions at the testing coastal course. Scratch player Mark Burgess shot 72 and 68 to finish on two-under par and win the individual title, with Pitcher, who plays off one, finishing second following rounds of 72 and 71. The 36-hole tournament, which is open to category 1&2 players, has been hosted at the Hampshire-based club for 30 years.

NEWS IN BRIEF

[26] OCTOBER 2015 | TOUR NEWS

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US fights back to win Solheim Cup marred by concession controversy

JAIDEE WEATHERS STORM IN GERMANY Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee held off a late challenge from Graeme Storm to capture his seventh European Tour title in the Porsche European Open at Bad Griesbach. With Storm in the clubhouse on 16 under par after a final round 67, Jaidee was just one shot clear when hit his approach to the final green hit a hospitality unit. After a protracted ruling on where he could drop, the 45 year old chipped up to eight feet and holed the par putt to win by the minimum margin.

OLYMPIC VENUE PLANS TRIAL EVENT The golf course being prepared for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro will get its first test in March with a one-day exhibition event featuring three or four top players. The date has yet to be announced, or the names of the players involved, but the International Golf Federation said that it will not clash with any others tournaments. The course, designed by American Gil Hanse, is being built near the main Olympic Park in the western Rio suburb of Barra da Tijuca.

KJELDSEN REACHES TOUR MILESTONE Søren Kjeldsen became the first Danish player to play in 500 European Tour events following his appearance at the US PGA Championship.

The 40-year-old took 18 years and 189 days to reach the milestone, and made the cut in 358 of the 500 tournaments. During that time he has amassed €11,351,076 in prize money, with four victories, including July’s Irish Open, and 56 top-ten finishes.

ELS RECEIVES PAYNE STEWART AWARD

Ernie Els has been given the 2015 Payne Stewart Award by the PGA Tour in honour of the charitable work he does with autistic children as well as the development of junior golf talent in South Africa. The award is presented annually to a professional golfer who best exemplifies Payne Stewart’s values of character, charity and sportsmanship.

SPIETH SIGNS OFF SEASON IN STYLE Jordan Spieth wrapped up an unforgettable season in fitting style with a four-shot victory in the Tour Championship to secure the FedExCup title and a massive pay day at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta.

A fifth win of the season guaranteed him the overall title for the 22 year old, with a final round 69 being easily good enough to secure a £7.5m payout, on top of the first prize of £977,000 for the Tour Championship win.

Not only did the American finish four shots clear of Henrik Stenson, Justin Rose and Danny Lee, but victory also saw him leapfrog Jason Day and Rory McIlroy back into the world number one spot.

The Masters and US Open

champion started the final round just one shot ahead of Stenson, but while the steady Swede started with seven pars, Spieth had a mixture of bogeys and birdies to reach the turn two to the good.

That lead was extended to three when Spieth rolled in a curling 45-footer for birdie at the 10th – a feat that even Stenson had to acknowledge with a fist bump with his rival.

Stenson’s miserable weekend was capped off by a shank on the 17th, which resulted in a double-bogey six, while a closing birdie at the 18th green was little consolation for a poor weekend’s work.

Jason Day missed out on FedExCup victory by ending the week in a tie for tenth.

Woods out for rest of the year following second back surgery Tiger Woods will not play again this year after undergoing back surgery, the 14-time major winner has announced.

The former world No.1 went under the knife in Utah on September 16 – just 18 months after having surgery on a pinched nerve in his back – and expects to return to action early next year.

Woods, who is currently 283rd in the world rankings, missed the Masters for the first time in his career when he underwent back surgery in March last year, and he will now miss the Frys.com Open, Bridgestone America’s Golf Cup and the Hero World Challenge.

Willett turns down PGA Tour card Danny Willett has turned down the chance to play in America full time next year. During a highly successful 2015, the Sheffield golfer has done enough to earn a PGA Tour card for next year, but has passed on the opportunity, citing the ability to pick and choose which tournaments he plays.

“I’m concentrating on Europe again,” said the 28 year old, who is currently ranked 25th in the world and second in the Race to Dubai points list. “It’s about trying to get

myself settled in and trying to win a few more times, and trying to compete more in the Majors. Hopefully we’ll have that same chance next year, and we’ll see where we are.”

He added: “I think if you want to play well in America, you’ve got to be willing to up sticks and do it full time. That’s didn’t quite fit in with what I’m trying to do.

I’m currently in a great position where I can pick and choose the best events – which is always a massive advantage.”

The United States turned their fury at a controversial incident into a brilliant fightback to win the Solheim Cup and avoid a third straight defeat.

Europe took a 10-6 lead into the final session at St Leon-Rot in Germany, but could only manage three and a half points from the 12 singles to see the trophy slip from their grasp.

Victories from Karine Icher, Melissa Reid and Anna Nordqvist left the home side needing half a point from the remaining five matches, but none of those even made it to the 18th hole.

Charley Hull lost her 100 per cent record to an inspired Cristie Kerr, while Caroline Hedwall was thrashed 6&4 by Michelle Wie. America’s Gerina Piller then holed from 10 feet on the 18th to beat Caroline Masson, before Angela Stanford ended a run of nine straight defeats with a 2&1 win over Suzann Pettersen, who had earlier been at the heart of the controversy which left two players in tears.

In the final fourball match carried over from Saturday, Pettersen and Hull were all square with two holes to play against Brittany Lincicome and Alison Lee.

Lee missed a birdie putt to win the 17th and, after the ball finished two feet behind the hole, scooped it up with her putter thinking it either had been, or was certain to be, conceded.

Hull gave that impression too, as she was already walking across the front of the green towards the 18th tee, but Pettersen said they had not conceded the putt and therefore won the hole.

European captain Carin Koch approached the match referee on the 18th to ask if there was anything she could do, and was told they could concede the hole, but opted not to after Pettersen insisted she was not going to concede Lee’s putt.

Asked if the American players had extra motivation following the controversy, Koch said: “My players were just as motivated to go out there and win the Solheim Cup for the third time in a row. But it’s just the way it goes sometimes, the putts drop or they don’t and that’s the difference. It will take a little while for the girls to get over this, they’re all great competitors, but it was pretty quiet in the team room.”

DunhIll delight for Olesen Denmark’s Thorbjørn Olesen held his nerve to win the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship and claim his third European Tour title.

The 25-year-old from Copenhagen came second at this event in 2012, but went one better this time around, posting a one under par 71 over the Old Course at St Andrews to finish the week on 18 under par, two shots clear of the American duo of Brooks Koepka and Chris Stroud.

Olesen began his final round with a three-shot lead over the chasing pack, but lost his advantage with three dropped shots over the opening three holes. He bounced back with birdies at the fourth and fifth, and after safely parring the next nine holes, extended his advantage to two strokes with a brilliant birdie from 50 feet at the 15th.

He then parred the 17th to set up a victory stroll down the 18th, before collecting a cheque for €708,171, which moved him up 99 places up the Race to Dubai, into the top 75 in the world ranking and to the head of the European Ryder Cup points list.

The team event, which matches a pro with a celebrity, was won by the German duo of Florian Fritsch and football legend Michael Ballack with a team score of 40-under-par.following a last round 62 on the Old Course.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

OCTOBER 2015 [27]

LOCAL HERO GolfNews had the privilege of playing alongside Ryder Cup player Stephen Gallacher at the Scottish Open Pro-Am at Gullane earlier this summer. Here, the 41 year old from West Lothian talks about last year’s Ryder Cup, the growth of the Scottish Open, and the joys of playing golf in his motherland Interview by Matt Nicholson

How pleased are you that the Scottish Open is enjoying a rebirth following the decision to move the venue around Scotland?

I think it was a great idea to take it up to Castle Stuart and Royal Aberdeen, where they don’t often get to see championship golf. The players wanted to play on links courses, so they moved it away from Loch Lomond. It’s hard to appease everyone.

I thought Loch Lomond was an unbelievable venue, but the fields have been better since we went to links courses, and when Phil Mickelson won both the Scottish Open and the Open back-to-back, that sort of opened the floodgates for players to believe that they can

prepare for the Open by playing the Scottish Open the week before.

That has been great for Scotland, great for tourism, and that’s why the stature of the tournament has grown. But, everybody’s got a different opinion. You can play it anywhere in Scotland, and it’s still the Scottish Open.

What is it that makes golf in Scotland so special?

A lot of it is down to the history.

There’s an enormous romance associated with golf in Scotland, and specifically with St Andrews, the Home of Golf, and all the other Open venues. You’re playing courses that were laid down hundreds of years ago, and we’ve got such a wide variety of styles of courses – from inland links to coastal links, from parkland to heathland. Scotland is a small country, but it has so much to offer the travelling golfer.

Is there any specific advice you would give to visitors coming to play in Scotland?

I would tell them that if they’ve got the time, they should go up the west coast, right along the north coast, back down the east coast, and then right along the middle, in one big square. You’ve got all the

courses on the Western Isles and the Moray Firth, and you’ve got the ones in Aberdeen, and all the way down the coast to Carnoustie. And then you’ve got all the ones inland.

We are so lucky to have such a diverse choice of places to play to suit all levels of golfer.

What was it like playing at Gleneagles in the Ryder Cup? I’ve heard it said that when you play in one Ryder Cup you never want to miss another. I understand that now. In terms of the atmosphere, the majors would rank as a one, and the Ryder Cup a 10. It was by far the best event I’ve ever played in, and I was so lucky to have played in it in my home country – very few European players ever get that opportunity. It’s without doubt the pinnacle of my career so far.

How hard was it for you to sit out the matches on the Saturday?

I was OK with sitting out, because it’s a team game, and when guys break records in foursomes you’ve got to keep that formula. I wasn’t unhappy, because so many guys in the team have had the same experience before. Martin Kaymer didn’t play the Saturday at Medinah, but he holed the putt on the Sunday to win the cup. And on

the Saturday every one of the boys rallied round me. They made me feel brilliant. I would have loved to have been involved, but the team is the most important thing.

You’ve had rather mixed results this season. Can you point to anything specific that isn’t clicking?

I’m feeling more positive than I have been the last couple months.

The French Open was a big turning point. I didn’t play well at all. Sometimes you need a bit of adversity before you can sort of take stock and say, well, you know what, I’m going to draw a line in the sand and just get back to doing what I do best and get the fundamentals right. I’m working hard, and it only needs one good round that can spark off a bit of form. I’ve sort of been getting in my own way a bit, and trying a bit too hard to force good tournament.

Whenever I’ve just been back to basics, just went right back to getting my posture, setup, grip, stance, aim right, I’ve started to hit the ball a lot better.

You’ve been playing a lot more on the PGA Tour this season. Do you think getting used to that has that had any effect on your consistency?

It’s a nightmare. It takes me ages to get back to feeling normal again after I’ve been to America. After the US Open at Chambers Bay, it probably took me three weeks to get back. I really struggled to cope with the jet lag. I tried sleeping tablets, eating at different times, drinking lots of water. It is tough to play both tours, no doubt about it.

It tires you out and you can lose a bit of focus and concentration.

Will you schedule things differently next year, as you bid to win back your Ryder Cup place at Hazeltine?

I’ve yet to finalise my schedule for next season, but I wanted to be fresh for the end of this year, when the Ryder Cup campaign started again, so basically I’ve had a few quiet months and now I’m trying to come out firing for the new points season.

Stephen Gallacher is the golf ambassador of Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, whose portfolio includes the Macdonald Spey Valley Resort in the Cairngorms, and the Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Spa in Shropshire.

For more information on its 13 golf hotels and resorts across the UK, Spain and Portugal, please visit www. macdonaldhotels.co.uk/golf

[28] OCTOBER 2015 | EQUIPMENT NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Ping re-signs Oosthuizen

THE GEAR EFFECT

WINNERS’ BAGS ON TOUR

JORDAN SPIETH Tour Championship DRIVER: Titleist 915D2 (9.5) FAIRWAY WOOD: Titleist 915F (15) IRONS: Titleist 712U (3), 4Titleist 714 AP2 (4-9) WEDGES: Titleist Vokey SM5 (46, 52, 56, 60) PUTTER: Titleist Scotty Cameron 009 BALL: Titleist Pro V1X

THONGCHAI JAIDEE Porsche European Open DRIVER: Titleist 915D2 (9.5) FAIRWAY WOODS: Titleist 915F (15, 18) IRONS: Titleist 712U (4), Titleist CB 714 (5PW) WEDGES: Titleist Vokey SM5 (52, 60) PUTTER: Titleist Scotty Cameron Studio Select Newport 2 BALL: Titleist Pro V1x

JASON DAY BMW Championship DRIVER: TaylorMade M1 460 (10.5) FAIRWAY WOOD: TaylorMade AeroBurner 3HL (16.5) IRONS: TaylorMade RSi (2), TaylorMade RSi TP (4-PW) WEDGES: TaylorMade TP EF (47, 52, 58) PUTTER: TaylorMade Ghost Spider Itsy Bitsy BALL: TaylorMade TP X

RIKARD KARLBERG Italian Open DRIVER: Callaway Big Bertha Alpha 815 Double Black Diamond (9) FAIRWAY WOOD: Callaway XR IRONS: Callaway Apex UT (2), Srixon Z 745 (4-PW) WEDGES: Cleveland 588 RTX (52, 56), Cleveland Precision Forged (60) PUTTER: Odyssey Versa #7 90 BALL: Srizon Z-Star XV

THORBJORN OLESEN Alfred Dunhill Links DRIVER: Nike Vapor Pro (9.5) FAIRWAY WOOD: Nike Vapor Fly (15) IRONS: Nike Vapor Pro Combo (2), Nike Vapor Pro (3-9) WEDGES: Nike Engage (46, 54, 59) PUTTER: Nike Method 001 BALL: Nike RZN Black

MATTHEW FITZPATRICK British Masters DRIVER: Callaway Big Bertha Alpha 815 Double Black Diamond (10.5) FAIRWAY WOODS: Ping G25 (15, 21) IRONS: Ping i25 (3-5), Ping S55 (6-9) WEDGES: Ping Tour Gorge (47), Titleist Vokey SM5 (54, 58) PUTTER: Yes! Tracy II

LYNX OPENS NEW CUSTOM-FITTING CENTRE Lynx Golf is inviting golfers to visit its UK headquarters in Weybridge, Surrey, following the opening of its new custom-fitting centre.

The family-owned brand, which has recently launched its line up of equipment for 2016, has unveiled the state-of-the-art facility in partnership with Foresight Sports, whose GC2 and HMT launch monitor systems are ideal for custom fitting, coaching and simulator play.

Stephanie Zinser, Lynx Golf’s CEO, said: “Our new custom-fitting centre will allow golfers to come and experience all the Lynx range in a friendly, but hi-tech environment.

It also means that Lynx stockists will be able to promote full custom fitting as a service to their customers. We see this as an extremely important and exciting project in the development of our company, and we are delighted to be working with Foresight Sports, who are a proven leader in customfitting technology.”

Announcing the Lynx partnership, Ed Doling, sales director at Foresight Sports Europe, said: “We

are proud to have been chosen by Lynx Golf to install our widescreen Foresight simulator into their new clubfitting facility.

“This is another household name in golf that is looking to the future by embracing our camera-based approach to directly measuring ball and club data.

Lynx truly understands and values the need for trusted and accurate data to provide the ultimate fitting experience for its clients.

It’s a perfect fit for our businesses, and I hope this is the beginning of a long and mutually beneficial relationship.”

As well as its extensive range of men’s clubs, including gameimprover models, blades and lower-lofted irons for the more experienced player, Lynx boasts a comprehensive ladies range, while next year also sees the introduction of a full new junior range, with accessories and golf bags to match.

To book a custom fitting, visit www.lynxgolf.co.uk.

Poulter Design launches online-only collection IJP Design, the clothing brand founded by Ian Poulter, has made the shift to become an online-only brand, launching its first exclusively online collection in October.

The new IJP Design range was launched on October 26 on www.ijpdesign.com, and is the first collection to be exclusively available online.

The new menswear collection unveils the season’s tartan colour palette of thistle, cyan, petrol, military, ink and acid, along with a range of polo shirts and knitwear. The collection draws inspiration from the British countryside and the American Ivy League to create a mix of heritage and contemporary style.

Ian Poulter said: “Technology has had a huge impact on all aspects of golf over the last few years, which is not only reflected in the unique design and production process, but also the way we are able to listen and converse with our customer around the globe. We believe this strategy fits perfectly with our core customers’ shopping habits.

It also allows us to communicate with them directly through all online and social media channels in a positive and proactive way.”

To view the collection, www.ijpdesign.com.

CORRECTION

On page 34 of September’s edition of GolfNews, Srixon’s AD333 ball was referred to in the headline as ‘the UK’s favourite golf ball’. We would like to make it clear that the Srixon AD333 is the UK’s top-selling two-piece golf ball, and not the market-leading ball across all categories. The UK’s top-selling ball is Titleist’s Pro V1 range, which has double the market share of the nearest competitor.

Louis Oosthuizen has signed a new agreement to continue playing Ping equipment and wearing the brand’s apparel.

As part of the deal, the 32-year-old South African will wear a Ping hat, carry a Ping staff bag, and play a minimum of 11 Ping clubs, including the company’s driver and putter.

“I’ve used Ping equipment since I was a teenager,” the 2010 Open champion said.

“From the time I first started playing their clubs, I knew they were the best fit for my game, and I believe that now more than ever, with the success I’ve had on the European and PGA tours. So much of golf comes down to confidence, and I’ve always trusted that Ping’s technology is the best and it keeps getting better. I’m excited to see what comes next.”

Oosthuizen is currently enjoying one of his best seasons since turning professional in 2002. Among his six top 10s this season, he finished second at both the US Open and the Open Championship, and later this month will play in his second Presidents Cup for the international team. He is currently 13th in the world rankings, up from 45th at the end of 2014.

TALON GETS TO GRIPS WITH YOUR SET UP Ojee Golf’s revolutionary new digital golf training aid is proving a real boon to golfers thanks to its delivery of realtime visual feedback on a player’s stance, set-up and angles of address.

The brainchild of Teesside-based product designer Matt Hulbert and his father Paul, the Talon training aid enables golfers to view their stance and adjust to their best position, improving muscle memory, consistency and performance.

The Talon utilises a digital display unit that attaches to the top of any golf club, together with a separate wireless back unit, which uses patent-pending technology to remove guesswork by displaying four critical angles of address: spine angle, club shaft angle, club shaft to spine angle, and rotation angle of the club face.

The product was born from the informed words of golfing legend Jack Nicklaus, who described the importance of posture in his book ‘Golf My Way’. “If you set

up correctly, there’s a good chance you’ll hit a reasonable shot, even if you make a mediocre swing,” said Nicklaus. “If you set up to the ball poorly, you’ll hit a lousy shot even if you make the greatest swing in the world.”

Following its airing on Indiegogo – a crowd-funding tool which helps users to reach financial goals – the brand’s owners have so far raised over £24,000 in funding for product development, and recently returned from a trip to China, where they joined several other northern-based business in showcasing their products to over 100 Chinese businesses.

To pre-order the Talon, which costs £149 (representing a £76 discount off the £225 RRP), visit igg.me/at/ojee-golf-talon.

PowaKaddy extends FW7 trolley warranty PowaKaddy has extended the warranty offered on its flagship FW7 and FW7 EBS models from two to three years. The new guarantee is available to all golfers in the UK & Ireland who purchase an FW7 trolley and register it on PowaKaddy’s website.

“We’re proud to offer this new thre-year warranty on our electric trolley,” commented PowaKaddy chairman John deGraft-Johnson. “It reinforces the quality and reliability of PowaKaddy trolleys, which have proved a major hit with golfers across the UK and Ireland in recent years. It offers that reassurance to golfers that when they buy the FW7 they’re getting a robust, feature-packed and cutting-edge designed trolley that represents incredible value for money,” added deGraft-Johnson.

NEWS | OCTOBER 2015 [29]

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Golf Foundation appoints former Crown boss as new chairman The Golf Foundation has chosen former Crown Golf chief executive Stephen Lewis to succeed Charles Harrison as its chairman.

Lewis has spent a career in health, fitness, and golf management, during which time he has held a number of key senior posts. Harrison, who steps down in 2016 after seven years in the role, said: “Stephen’s business and golf management experience, allied with his clear love of the game, will be most helpful in the further development of the Golf Foundation as the leading golfing charity in the UK associated with grassroots development.”

Brendon Pyle, the charity’s chief executive, said: “The senior management team and I believe Stephen can continue the strong chairmanship it has enjoyed under Charles’s leadership, and look forward very much to welcoming him to the board.”

The Golf Foundation, which was founded by Sir Henry Cotton in 1952, offers a number of programmes to encourage children from all backgrounds to get involved in golf. Last year its HSBC Golf Roots initiative led to 3,600 new club junior members being introduced by the Golf Foundation, which represented a 45% increase on the previous year.

Tunberry closes Ailsa course as renovations begin Turnberry’s Ailsa Course has shut for up to nine months after the final players left the famous 18th green on September 27.

The course is being renovated

by Turnberry’s new owner, Donald Trump, and is scheduled to reopen some time in June next year.

When it reopens, the course will have new tees on several holes along the water, adding ocean carries to their demands. The new course will play to its pre-exisiting

par of 70, but its configuration will be different, most notably around the turn, where the par-4 9th hole will be shortened into a par 3 and the par-4 10th stretched into a par five.

In another dramatic change, the iconic lighthouse is to be converted into a half-way house.

Host venue for The Open in 2009, it’s unclear when Turnberry will next stage the event, although the next free slot in the rota is 2020.

Have golfers gone mental?

Finding a relaxed state of mind can be difficult at the best of times. In our busy lives, stress, anxiety and frustration can be the cause of personal meltdowns.

So, imagine how your body and brain cope under the pressure of pitching over water to the green, or that tricky 10-foot putt to win a tournament. As many amateur golfers know, it’s so easy to let mental distractions get in the way of a great game, but we regularly see the world’s top players manage challenging situations with ease and precision. The question is: how do they do it?

Research by prestigious universities shows the average golfer uses only the left side of the brain. This side is preoccupied with half-remembered tips and advice – the unwanted ‘mind-chatter’ that hampers good golf. But professional golfers can also bring in the creative right side, which deals with rhythm, balance, timing and imagery. What’s more, top golfers can ‘switch off’ just before hitting a shot.

Australian Tour pro Terry Price said: “In doing so – we achieve perfect mental stability and get ‘into the zone’. Professional golfers require an incredible mental strength under pressure. You see them make those clutch putts and

big shots all the time.Why? Because they are in complete control of their thoughts all the time. By training your mind to maintain a mental balance, the hazards and other dangers amateurs face on the course suddenly become oblivious.”

As the professional game continues to be exciting and extremely competitive, we are hearing more and more pros openly discuss the importance of the role that sports psychology plays in raising their performance to the next level.

Many of the world’s top golfers pay thousands of dollars to ensure they cope under extreme pressure.

Up until recently this type of coaching had been unavailable to amateurs wanting the edge to their game. However, in the past few years, a mind-coaching programme called Pro Golf IQ has allowed golfers of all ages and standards to master the mental side, which many pros say is 80% of their skill set.

Pro Golf IQ is a series of powerful audio sessions which uses a combination of relaxation and guided-imagery techniques to teach the mind the same skills used by the professionals, eradicating negativity while promoting focus and confidence to ensure you

consistently play to the best of your ability.

“As amateurs, we have all hit perfect shots, so in reality, our body is physically capable of achieving excellence,” explained Pete Nicholson, creator of Pro Golf IQ. “However, if our mind is unclear and our thoughts muddled, then it’s impossible for the brain to send the correct message to the body to replicate this perfection.

“Based on the studies of how the pros use their brain power, we developed the program to positively change the way the amateur golfer thinks in the crucial moments before playing a shot, in turn creating consistency and lowering scores.”

The audio program takes just five weeks to complete, with golfers simply needing to sit back and relax in the comfort of their home using headphones for around 30 minutes, three times per week.

Each week the golfer listens to a different dynamic session designed to encompass all parts of the game from the tee to the green, plus course management. “Over 95% of our customers have reported improvement or more enjoyment from their game during and after completing the program,” Nicholson added. “These gains may be cutting several shots from their handicap or simply feeling more relaxed and focussed on the course.”

The final word came from Price, who said: “It really is a must-have for anyone who wants to improve their game dramatically. This programme allows everyday amateurs an affordable way to gain improvement they never thought was possible.”

For more information, go to www.progolfiq.com/golfnews.

Golf News readers can save £60 on the £137 RRP.

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NEWS IN BRIEF CURTIS CALLS THE SHOTS AT DONNINGTON It took a play-off to separate Thomas Curtis and Ben Smith at the Jamega Tour event held at Donnington Grove in Berkshire last month. Both players tied on three under par after 36 holes over the Newbury-based layout, with Curtis’s final round 68 seeing him leapfrog several other title-chasing rivals to catch Smith, who closed with a 71 after bogeying the 17th hole.

The first hole of the play off was halved in par fours, but Curtis birdied the second to take the title, and the £2,000 first prize.

BB&O CLAIM SENIOR CROWN

Berks, Bucks and Oxon put on a command performance to claim their first win in the English Senior Men’s County Championship at Robin Hood Golf Club, Solihull. They swept past Yorkshire 7.5-1.5 on the final day to take the title, after earlier wins over Devon (5-4), Worcestershire (5.5-3.5). “This is the holy grail of senior golf,” said team captain Ashley Brewer, whose team was making their first appearance at county finals. “BB&O have been trying to win this ever since it started, but there are stronger counties in the South East, and we have been second seven times in qualifying.

To have finally got past our nemesis, Kent, in the qualifiers, we knew we had to take our chance.”

CLEAN SWEEP FOR ENGLAND U16S

England’s U16 boys completed a clean sweep of their autumn Home International series when they beat Ireland 10½-5½ at Templepatrick Golf Club, near Belfast. The team had earlier beaten Scotland 16-9 and Wales 11-9. Surrey’s Angus Flanagan and Hertfordshire’s Harry Goddard won all their three matches.

[30] OCTOBER 2015

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NO CONCESSIONS Suzann Pettersen’s professional reputation as a fierce competitor has served her well during her successful 15-year career on tour, but her actions at last month’s Solheim Cup may have destroyed her personal reputation forever Words by Nick Bayly

I

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

t was a measure of the disdain for Suzann Pettersen’s refusal to concede an 18-inch putt at last month’s Solheim Cup that virtually everyone, no matter their allegiances, felt that Team USA deserved to win the matches.

Even die-hard Europhiles bombarded social media channels to vent their rage at the 34-yearold Norwegian’s lack of sportsmanship, and berate her for the total disregard as to the consequences of her actions.

Laura Davies, who was commentating on the matches for Sky, described her former teammate’s behaviour as ‘disgusting’, before adding: ‘‘If Europe lose the Solheim Cup, there will be only one person to blame.”

And lose it they did, and blame her they will, with the Americans, riding a feverish wave of righteous indignation, pulling off a remarkable Medinah-style comeback to grab a stunning 14.5-13.5 victory.

A win for Europe would undoubtedly have been one of the hollowest triumphs in sporting history, and it is hard not to feel that the majority of the European team felt the same as they capitulated their lead on Sunday afternoon.

Pettersen, her brain scrambled by the morning’s events, not surprisingly lost her match against Angela Stanford, America’s least successful Solheim Cup player, rubbing yet more salt into the open wound.

With 22 victories notched up during a 15-year career, Pettersen has always been a steely competitor in the stroke play version of the game, but her competitive instincts bubble even closer to the surface in the Solheim Cup, where she has a reputation for getting in the faces of her matchplay rivals.

Although she has been on the winning team just three times in eight appearances, her personal tally of 16 points from 33 matches makes for solid reading, even if a solitary victory from eight singles matches perhaps highlights someone who enjoys the team-play element of the Solheim Cup more than anything else.

At 34, she is far from being the elder stateswomen of the team – that status has always belonged to Catriona Matthew, who is 12 years her senior – but Pettersen has nevertheless been the senior player in terms of world rankings, she is currently eighth, and it is she that the squad look to for leadership, and want to play alongside, and it is she, above all other players, that the Americans fear to be matched up against.

Pettersen’s partner in two of the matches in Germany, including on that fateful Sunday foursomes, was Charley Hull, the golden girl from the 2013 Solheim Cup, whose naivety many felt was exploited by her teammate during those heated exchanges on the 17th green. A more experienced partner might have overruled Pettersen, and allowed Alison Lee’s ball to be replaced, but the 19 year old from Kettering was seemingly steamrollered into accepting a decision that left her in tears when the match concluded minutes later with an inglorious 2-up European

OCTOBER 2015

victory.

As Pettersen marched down the 18th fairway, she was seen demonstrating – mainly for benefit of the cameras – how long she thought the putt was, looking to all the world like someone who was trying just that little bit too hard to justify her actions.

Carin Koch, Europe’s captain, must also shoulder her share of the blame for the whole sorry affair, as she could have over-ruled Pettersen, or, at the very least, given the US team the final hole and halved the match. But she instead chose to defer to her star player. It was a judgment call that she can’t possibly look back on with much pride.

In the immediate aftermath, Pettersen, as expected by someone so clearly not on the moral highground, stuck rigidly to her guns, saying that neither player had said a word that could have been construed as a concession, and despite Hull having left the green in search of the next tee, the rules of golf still applied.

Ignoring the adage about stopping digging when in a hole, Pettersen ploughed with her defence.

But with the matches lost, the length of the putt reviewed many times on television, a night to sleep

A European victory would undoubtedly have been one of the hollowest triumphs in sporting history

[31]

WHAT THE CRITICS SAID: “How Suzann can justify that I will never, ever know.

We are all fierce competitors, but ultimately it’s unfair. You do not do something like that to a fellow pro.” Laura Davies “A terrible injustice has happened and it’s not right.”

Mickey Walker “If that’s how they want to play it, let’s use this to motivate us.” Stacey Lewis “It’s just BS as far as I’m concerned ... It’s just not right. It puts a damper on the whole thing.”

Juli Inkster “What happened @solheimcup is a disgrace to the sport. ‘He said, she said’ is irrelevant. Put the ball back, putt it, or concede the putt.”

Zach Johnson, PGA Tour player and Open champion

on it (or not), and no doubt a strong word in her ear from officials from the Ladies European Tour, Pettersen backed down the following morning, issuing a statement on social media that spoke of her sorrow and contrition, and of how the white heat of competition had clouded her judgment.

While the sentiments were, on the face it it, heartfelt, there was more than an element of the horse having long since bolted, and, as a damage limitation exercise, a few hastily-typed words on social media seemed a slightly cowardly way to go about repairing a tarnished reputation in a game that, despite its often arcane and silly rules, still holds sportsmanship and fairness almost above all other qualities.

How Pettersen moves on from this unfortunate, but totally avoidable, episode will be a further test of her character. A weaker personality might creep away into the shadows and hide until the storm abates, but that doesn’t sound much like the Suzann Pettersen that we know. However, the speed at which she will be able to put it behind her will largely be dictated by how she is treated by her fellow players, especially those Americans she comes up against week in, week out on the LPGA Tour. While they may hand out an olive branch in public – or not – you would have to be naïve to think that they will ever truly be able to forgive her.

It would be a desperate shame if someone who has given so much to the game she clearly adores should be forever held out as a symbol of all that is wrong with modern sport, but I fear that those are the cards she has dealt herself, and she’ll have to live with the consequences for the rest of her life.

PETTERSEN’S DEFENCE:

SUZANN PETTERSEN FACTFILE

PETTERSEN’S APOLOGY:

AGE: 34 BORN: Olso, Norway LIVES: Orlando, Florida TURNED PRO: 2000 WORLD RANKING: 8th (Highest: 2nd 2011-2012) CAREER WINS: 22 (13 LPGA, 7 LET, 1 OTHER) MAJOR WINS: 2007 LPGA Championship, 2013 Evian Championship SOLHEIM CUP: 8 apperances, 3 wins (‘03, ’11, ’13) W 16 L11 H6 CAREER EARNINGS: $13,347,237

‘It was very clear from Charley and me that we wanted to see the putt. I’ve never been more quiet in my life after seeing her first putt. We didn’t say a word and unfortunately she picked up.’

‘I’ve never felt more gutted and truly sad about what went down Sunday on the 17th at the Solheim Cup. I am so sorry for not thinking about the bigger picture in the heat of the battle and competition. I was trying my hardest for my team and put the single match, and the point that could be earned, ahead of sportsmanship and the game of golf itself. I feel like I let my team down and I am sorry.

To the US team, you guys have a great leader in Juli [Inkster], who I’ve always looked up to and respect so much. Knowing I need to make things right, I had a face to face chat with her before leaving Germany this morning to tell her in person how I really feel about all of this. I wanted her also to know that I am sorry.

I hope, in time, the US team will forgive me, and know that I have learned a valuable lesson about what is truly important in this great game of golf, which has given me so much in my life.

To the fans who watched the competition on TV, I am sorry for the way I carried myself. I can be so much better, and being an ambassador for this game means a lot to me. The Solheim Cup has been a huge part of my career. I wish I could change Sunday for many reasons. Unfortunately I can’t. I want to work hard to earn back your belief in me as someone who plays hard, plays fair, and plays golf the right way.’

[32] OCTOBER 2015 | PROSHOP

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

FOOTJOY DNA MYJOYS RRP: £200 CONTACT: FOOTJOY.CO.UK/MYJOYS FootJoy’s athletically-styled DNA model can now be designed to suit personal preferences via the brand’s MyJoys customisation website.

Golfers can choose from a dizzying array of 21,168 design combinations, comprising four different base leathers – white, black, grey and navy – 12 saddle leathers, 49 accent leathers, and nine different lace options. For those with unusual foot dimensions, they are available in 66 different size options, with lengths between 5-15, and widths between narrow and extra wide. Golfers can play around with designs on FootJoy’s MyJoys’ website to see what their shoes will look like before confirming their purchase.

The DNA shoe is packed with premium features, including full-grain leather uppers, padded ankle collar, breathable tongue, a dual-density fitbed, and a laser-designed last that allows the toes to move for added balance, while locking the heel securely in place.

TRIED + TESTED

TAYLORMADE PSI IRONS RRP: £799/£899 (ST/GR) CONTACT: TAYLORMADEGOLF.EU TaylorMade’s new Players Slotted Irons, which go on sale on November 6, are designed to deliver feel and distance for low handicappers – rather than offering, as many players’ irons do, either one element or the other.

This has been made possible by what TalyorMade is calling a Dynamic Feel System. Comprised of a compression damper and a multi-material cavity badge, DFS works to reduce vibration across the face without sacrificing ball speed. Combined with a redesigned head shape, tungsten weighting in the long irons (3-5), and forged short irons (8SW), the result is a more fluid approach to feel throughout the set, which is further enhanced by the use of progressive blade lengths, topline thicknesses and offset.

Another feature is a new speed pocket, which appears as a cut-through slot that feeds directly into the cavity undercut, which, the brand says, increases ball speeds for shots struck lower on the face.

Like last year’s RSi irons, the PSi uses face slot technology. These slots, located in the heel and toe of the clubface, protect ball speeds and distance on off-centre hits.

TITLEIST 716 AP1 IRONS

Ever since they were first launched back in 2007, the AP1 irons have played a leading role in helping reposition Titleist from a brand that was almost exclusively played by pros and single-figure handicappers, to one that offered a genuine alternative for those less proficient at this infuriating game.

I happily put myself in the latter category, as barring a fleeting dalliance with the 910 driver, and the occasional trial of a Scotty Cameron putter or a Vokey wedge, my bag was ashamedly unencumbered by Titleist equipment, due to my relative lack of ballstriking ability.

But all that changed with the launch of the AP1, the latest versions of which, the 716s, go on sale later this month. While the new AP2s are a great set of irons for those who like a bit of help in a more refined package, the latest AP1s are instantly more appealing to my eye, with their generous blade length and width, slight offset, and cambered sole helping to caress my shots skywards and forwards with consummate ease, despite my ever-decreasing swing speed.

Proof of the pudding is that set against the previous generation 714 AP1s, the new model cranked out at least 10 extra yards on average, while, just as importantly, the shot dispersion was tighter, and the distance between clubs was also neatly spaced.

Some of the credit to these eye-popping distance gains can be attributed to stronger lofts and a wellmatched shaft, but plenty of the plaudits should go to the redesigned head, which features a serious chunk of high density tungsten ­– 50% more than in the 714s – which is tucked low in the toe-end of the sole, which not only lifts the launch angle, but also increases the moment of inertia, which helps square

RRP : £93/£107 PER CLUB (ST/GR) CONTACT: TITLEIST.CO.UK

the clubface at impact.

The undercut cavity features an unsupported face area that is thinner and more flexible than its predecessor, creating even faster ball speeds, while off-centre hits are punished by only a minimal loss of distance with none of those unpleasant tingling sensations in your wrists that you often get from less forgiving sets. The leading edge and cambered sole reduced digging and allows a smoother entry and release from the turf.

With clubs available singly, rather than in fixed 4-PW sets, players whose skill level sits between the AP1 and AP2 can now mix and match to suit their eye, perhaps substituting the slimmer AP2s as you get nearer the scoring end of the set.

Despite the club’s forgiving qualities, most golfers with a handicap north of 18 will still recoil in terror at the mention of the word ‘Titleist’, so there remains plenty of work to do to change perceptions that have been ingrained over decades, but the new AP1s should at least reduce some of that toil, as these are by far the most ‘gameimproving’ iron that the brand has ever produced.

TITLEIST SCOTTY CAMERON FUTURA X7 PUTTER RRP: £279 CONTACT: TITLEIST.CO.UK Building on the success of the X5 range, the next generation of Futura putters features enlarged heads that enhance perimeter weighting to increase stability.

Available in three models – X7, X7M, and a counter-balanced X7M (£320) – the X7 is a wingback mallet that is 10 percent larger than the Futura X5, and features horizontal and vertical sight lines, while the X7M is a unique bar-back mallet design that offers even more resistance to twisting at impact.

The dual balance X7M model features a 15-inch counter-balanced grip that improves stability for those who prefer a non-anchored stroke.

All three designs feature a lightweight aluminium facesole core surrounded by a stainless steel frame. This multi-material construction delivers improved MOI for stability and forgiveness, while producing a soft sound and feel.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

CALLAWAY APEX HYBRID

PROSHOP | OCTOBER 2015 [33]

PRO SHOP

RRP: £189 CONTACT: CALLAWAYGOLF.COM The Apex hybrid offers an alternative to long irons for mid to low handicap golfers looking for a club to hit greens with accuracy from distance, as well as add a greater degree of forgiveness at the top end of their bag.

Available in four lofts (2, 3, 4 and 5), it has a tourinspired head shape and features Callaway’s forged cup face technology, which offers a combination of forgiveness and hot ball speed. The centre of gravity is low to increase spin and promote a more iron-like flight, with a higher apex than traditional hybrids, to bring stopping power when golfers are approaching long par 5s and 4s in two, or on lengthy par 3s. They go on sale on December 4.

CALLAWAY APEX IRONS RRP: £849 (ST), £1,099 (GR) CONTACT: CALLAWAYGOLF.COM

The first ever forged irons to feature cup face technology, Callaway’s new Apex irons have a multi-piece construction that allows players of all abilities to enjoy the feel of a forged iron, while still offering control, distance and forgiveness.

Forged from precision-milled, mild carbon steel, the longer irons (3-7) feature the cup face to increase ball speeds and forgiveness across the face, while in the shorter irons (8-AW), a face plate enhances feel and distance control.

Progressive offset, sole widths, centre of gravity height and notch weighting, provide a balance of ball flight, playability, forgiveness and control for each iron.

The irons feature a satin finish, with stock shafts being a UST Mamiya Recoil 760/780 (graphite) or a True Temper XP 95 (steel).

A better players’ version, the Apex Pro 16, features tourinspired shaping and a design that encourages a more penetrating trajectory. Two tungsten weights placed in the sole of the long irons increases launch angle without adding spin. The weights are not used in the short irons, as they do not require any extra help to get the ball up, and facilitate a lower-flighted trajectory. The club has a high polish chrome finish that better players seem to prefer.

ODYSSEY WORKS TANK CRUISER PUTTER RRP: £219 CONTACT: ODYSSEYGOLF.COM The new Tank Cruiser range, available in 1, 7, 2-Ball Fang and V-Line models, combines all of Odyssey’s leading putter technologies into one design, merging Versa alignment with a Fusion RX insert and adjustable counterbalance weighting to offer softfeeling, quick rolling and consistent performance.

The Fusion RX melds the brand’s iconic White Hot insert with an ultra-thin stainless steel mesh that reduces skidding and gets the ball rolling quicker and purer.

Versa’s silver and black contrasting sightlines focuses the eyes on the linear design of each putter, ensuring correct face angle at address and through impact, while the balance of the putter can be adjusted with 5g, 15g and 30g weights in the head and butt-end of the grip to allow golfers to tinker with the putter’s overall feel and stability.

The five models are available with 35 or 38-inch shaft lengths and all come with SuperStroke grips as standard.

MIZUNO JPX EZ DRIVER RRP: £349 CONTACT: MIZUNO.EU In Luke Donald’s bag as early as May’s BMW PGA Championship, the new JPX EZ driver, which goes on sale in January next year, boasts a host of design features engineered to offer a winning combination of distance, accuracy and forgiveness.

While previous movable weight drivers have proved less playable due to the extra weight needed for the tracks and weight ports, the JPX EZ addresses the issue with a simple three-weight system that delivers forgiveness to match non-adjustable models.

Slotting a 10g weight in one of the three ports lets golfers change between a draw, neutral or fade bias, with the head’s large footprint promoting a highlaunching, low-spinning flight. A more rounded crown further enhances playability by allowing the clubface to flex more freely, generating higher ball speeds and more forgiveness on shots hit high in the face. An adjustable hosel provides further scope to optimise loft and launch.

A matching set of fairway woods (£219) and hybrids (£179) are available. Both feature larger, more confidence-inspiring heads, providing golfers with a high, softer-landing ball flight with optimum carry distance. The fairways are available with adjustable or fixed heads, in 15˚, 18˚ and 21˚ lofts, while hybrids come in a fixed hosel model only in lofts of 16˚, 19˚, 22˚ and 25˚.

NIKE AEROLOFT JACKET RRP: £210 CONTACT: NIKEGOLFEUROPE.COM Developed in conjunction with Nike’s sport research laboratory in Oregon, the Aeroloft blends lightweight insulation with perforated ventilation to create a jacket that retains enough heat to ensure you stay warm without overheating.

Ideal for playing in cold winds and light showers, the jacket features a stretchknit construction on the side panels and underarms for maximum mobility. It comes in black, blue and navy for men and black or white for women.

[34] OCTOBER 2015 | SHOWCASE

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

GALVIN GREEN ASTON

NIKE HYPERADAPT STORM-FIT

PROQUIP TOUR FLEX ELITE 360

PING COLLECTION TOUR EYE

RRP: £300 CONTACT: GALVINGREEN.COM

RRP: £200 CONTACT: NIKEGOLFEUROPE.COM

RRP: £119 CONTACT: PROQUIPGOLF.COM

RRP: £200 CONTACT: PINGCOLLECTION.CO.UK

The Aston jacket is an ultra-lightweight full-zip jacket constructed from Gore-Tex Paclite fabric with an added stretch function to maximise freedom of movement. This effect is applied ergonomically in different directions on various parts of the garment to enhance performance in each area of the jacket.

Over 14 metres of tape of two different thicknesses around the jacket ensure the golfer remains completely dry. Other features include a chest pocket, and adjustable hem and cuffs.

With no-sew technology throughout the inner layer, the HyperAdapt jacket also has a four-way stretch component in the areas around the shoulders and arms to eliminate restrictions during the swing. The woven, stretch-knit laminate combination is noiseless and offers a sweater-like feel. Offered with a lifetime waterproof guarantee, it is available with a hal- or full-zip, and comes in black/ volt; cool grey/hyper cobalt or action red/ black. There is also a matching pair of black trousers.

Made from a slim-fitting stretch fabric that guarantees complete freedom of movement, the Tour Flex features an creaseless, rustlefree polyester outer layer that has been treated with polyurethane laminate and woven with elastane to make it waterproof, while the dense weave of the fabric is breathable and draws moisture away from mid-layer garments. Features include waterproof zips, adjustable Velcro cuffs, and a raised collar. It comes in black, dark grey or purple, with matching trousers in black only.

The Tour Eye offers a combination of waterproof protection, exceptional breathability, and stretch properties for complete freedom of movement.

Constructed from lightweight Pertex Shield+, it combines a three-layer, tightly-woven stretch fabric to the front, and a back body with a Pertex polyurethane laminate.

This produces a highly waterproof and breathable fabric that is extremely durable and resists abrasion.. It is available in full and half-zip models, in a choice of black or ash marl, with matching black trousers.

JACKET REQUIRED

Say hello to winter golf.

Ooh, suits you, sir

FOOTJOY DRYJOYS TOUR XP RRP: £200 CONTACT: FOOTJOY.CO.UK Worn by a number of pros on tour, including Open champion Zach Johnson, the DryJoys Tour XP is made from a three-layer bonded fabric, comprising an outside polyesterwoven shell, a lamination layer and a soft, tricot lining, ensuring it keeps its wearer both dry and warm. Offering four-way stretch for easy, noiseless swinging, it also features seam-sealed pockets, waterproof zippers, and a raised collar. The jacket is available in black, black/white, black with charcoal/ orange accents and navy with black/white accents.

CHERVO MANNY RRP: £174 CONTACT: CHERVO.COM Combining trademark Italian style with Chervò’s pioneering high-performance outwear technologies, the Manny features linings and a laminated membrane ensure a watertight seal, while a hydrophilic film provides high levels of breathability. Soft to the touch, the noiseless microfibre material enables the wearer to swing in quiet comfort. Available with a lifetime guarantee, colour options include red/dark blue or white/royal blue.

UNDER ARMOUR GORE-TEX TIPS RRP: £250 CONTACT: UNDERARMOUR.COM Under Armour’s new Tips jacket in constructed from a triple-layered, stretchable fabric that delivers a durable, smooth outside and a soft, brushed interior. Waterproof, yet extremely breathable, the jacket is 25% more elastic than other suits made from GoreTex, making it even more comfortable during the phases of the swing. A half-zip version is also available, as well as matching trousers. Colour options are black, grey and purple.

SUNDERLAND WHISPERDRY HUSH RRP: £166.95 CONTACT: SUNDERLANDGOLF.COM The WhisperDry jacket offers a lightweight, sealed-seem, four-way stretch construction that guarantees complete freedom of movement and 100% protection from the rain. An integrated rainhood is a key feature, which will not only keep your head dry, but will stop those nasty drips from seeping down the back of your neck. It comes in sizes S-XXXL in either black/ red or black/blue, and is available with a matching pair of waterproof trousers (sold separately).

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

OCTOBER 2015 [35]

716 IRONS TAKE TITLEIST TO NEW HEIGHTS High-density tungsten placed low and deep in the head of Titleist’s new range of 716 irons enhances playability and performance

TITLEIST 716 T-MB UTILITY IRONS RRP: £169 (ST), £189 (GR)

TITLEIST 716 AP1

TITLEIST 716 CB IRONS

RRP: £93 PER CLUB (STEEL), £107 (GRAPHITE)

RRP: £117 (ST), £133 (GR)

DESCRIPTION: Whereas the previous generation 714 irons had a bar running from the back of the head to the face, the stainless steel AP1 716 sports a 360-degree undercut cavity and a thinner, unsupported face. This makes it more flexible than its predecessor, which leads to more ball speed, a higher launch, and more carry.

The short irons (3-7) have 50% more tungsten in the low toe than the 714 AP1 (42g per club versus 28g). This boosts MOI by 4%, and also lowers the centre of gravity, allowing Titleist to strengthen lofts by one degree without flattening launch angles. Increased sole camber prevents digging and allows a smoother entry and release for players who need help through impact.

DESCRIPTION: The CB, which is forged from carbon steel, is a cavity blade that features high-density tungsten to move the centre of gravity low and deep for more speed, tourproven trajectory, and precise control. An average of 55g of tungsten in each head drives higher ball speeds across the face for more consistent distance on off-centre hits, without the loss of workability or shot control. It has 12% more MOI than the 714 CB, making it comparable to the previous generation 714 AP2 model in terms of overall forgiveness.

TITLEIST SAYS: “We are the only company in this category using high-density tungsten. You can make a club more forgiving just by making the clubhead larger, but golfers don’t always want that. Through our technology we have the best combination of low CG and high MOI in the game improvement category. What that means to the golfer is hitting the ball far enough to reach the green and stopping it close to the pin more often, while maintaining distance consistency and trajectory, even when you don’t find the middle of the clubface.” Dan Stone, vice president of Titleist golf club R&D

TITLEIST SAYS: “The technology we’ve added to 716 CB effectively brings the high-tech construction of the AP2 iron to the cavity back blade category, and puts this iron in a class by itself in terms of MOI and forgiveness. The new coforged construction, and addition of high density tungsten weighting, gives CB an added kick, with unprecedented forgiveness in a traditional blade size.”

Marni Ines, director of Titleist Irons Development

TITLEIST 716 MB IRONS RRP: £117 (ST), £133 (GR)

TITLEIST 716 AP2 RRP: £117 (ST), £133 (GR) DESCRIPTION: With full sets often found in the bags of tour pros, the AP2s are designed to appeal to a wide crosssection of players. That appeal has been broadened still further with the 716, which offers added forgiveness and ball speed without compromising its Tour pedigree. Made from forged carbon steel, the long irons (3-7) have 25% more tungsten in the heel and toe than the 714 (56g per club), which concentrates mass low and towards the perimeter. And because the 716’s blade length is identical to the 714’s, the result – an 8.5% higher MOI – is even more impressive. The longest irons (3-5) have a slightly lower centre of gravity, positioned closer to where the ball typically strikes the face, which helps increase speed.

WHAT THE PROS SAY: Jordan Spieth: “Amateurs can now get the look of a blade while still having the consistency and forgiveness of a forged cavity. For me, the AP2 iron is about distance and forgiveness. A 7-iron is a little easier to hit than a 6-iron, a 6-iron is a little easier to hit than a 5-iron, so the less club you can hit into greens, the higher probability you’re going to score better.”

DESCRIPTION: Forged from carbon steel, the 716 CB is a high muscleback blade that features a squarer toe, thin topline, and a pre-worn leading edge that delivers maximum shot control with pure, forged muscleback feel. As with the CB irons, a pre-worn leading edge minimalises digging at impact, while constant blade lengths, with minimal progressive offset, offer maximum workability.

TITLEIST SAYS: “The 716 MB is a throwback to our Forged 680 Series, which has been modernised through high-tech CAD modeling.

We’ve done a lot of work to get the muscle in the right place, and use precise measurements to drive the shapes and sizes, so that they blend properly as you progress through the set. It’s still a pretty small blade, but it’s now also a very forgiving club. Everyone can benefit from ball speed on off-centre hits.”

Dan Stone, vice president of Titleist golf club R&D

DESCRIPTION: The 716 T-MBs feature high-density tungsten in the sole, which delivers a combination of high launch, long carry and forgiveness in a muscleback frame. The frame surrounds a thin, unsupported, high-strength stainless steel face that increases ball speed and launch angle, while up to 80g of tungsten inside the body drives the centre of gravity low and deep, allowing for stronger lofts and increased MOI (7% more than the 712U).

The result is high launch, low spin, and high speed to offer increased carry and distance. Available in 2, 3, 4 and 5 irons, the stock shaft is True Temper’s Dynamic Gold AMT, which features ascending mass technology to offer lighter long iron shafts for launch and speed and heavier short iron shafts for control. .

TITLEIST SAYS: “T-MBs will change the way players look at this type of club from a driving iron to a true utility club that can be integrated into the long end of a player’s set to improve distance gapping and shot stopping. They are the most playable, most forgiving utility irons we’ve ever produced, and will give players more launch, carry distance and forgiveness – all with an incredible, lively feel.” Marni Ines, director of Titleist Irons Development WHAT THE PROS SAY: Adam Scott: “We’ve seen hybrids replacing long irons, and now we’re going to see hollow musclebacks with perimeter weighting – tungsten, in this case – replacing muscle and cavity-back irons. It’s all about launching it high, and controlling the spin and distance. The T-MBs have a lively feel off the face, but the addition of the tungsten also gives it a solid feel. It’s far more forgiving than an MB iron, but doesn’t lose any feel.”

[36] OCTOBER 2015 | BREAKS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Pezula, South Africa

Chaka celebrates 20 years of offering exotic golf holidays Chaka Travel has been sending golfers on luxury golf holidays to some of the world’s most exotic destinations for two decades.

Established in 1995, the Belfast-based company is widely recognised as one of the UK and Ireland’s leading luxury golf tour operators, providing bespoke golf holidays to far-flung destinations such as Mauritius, South Africa, Thailand, Mexico, USA, Morocco and Dubai, as well as golfing nations closer to home, including Spain, Italy and Turkey.

Starting out by offering golf and safari trips to Zimbabwe, Chaka soon added other exotic destinations to its portfolio, all of which have been personally visited by its experienced staff, which boasts over 100 years of knowledge in worldwide travel.

As it enter its 20th year, Chaka Travel is expanding its choice of holidays by offering escorted tours, led by a team of expert golf professionals to help guide guests on the course. Exploring new destinations, while sharing experiences with like-minded travellers, escorted tours offer the luxury of being accompanied by a golf professional who will be on hand to not only offer golf tuition, but also share first-hand knowledge of the local sights to enhance the overall holiday experience.

Chaka also organises a wide choice of golf tournament holidays, with a range of mixed pairs and open tournaments hosted in a range of exotic destinations for those who like an element of competition while on their travels.

Chaka is the UK’s leading tour operator in Mauritius, and hosts a popular mixed pairs event at Belle Mare Plage every October, which should not be missed, while South Africa is another popular destination with the company’s clientele, with its 500 golf courses – many of them in Cape Town and Western Cape – providing quantity and quality in equal measure. Chaka’s next tour to South Africa is being held from February 20-March 2, when South African professional Jacques Gous will be hosting a 10-night trip taking in courses such as Pearl Valley, Oubaai, Pezula, Pinnacle Point and George. Prices start from £2,895pp, including return flights from London.

Mexico is also one of Chaka’s fastest-growing destinations, with a number of spectacular developments by world class architects such as Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Pete Dye and Tom Fazio proving a huge draw for golfers from all over the world. To start planning your next golf holiday, visit www.chakatravel.com or call 028 9023 2112.

European Tour launches Travel Club

Playing a round of golf with some of the world’s best players is something most golf fans can only dream about, but those dreams could become a reality following the launch of the European Tour Travel Club.

Offering travellers unprecedented access to a unique range of experiences, the European Tour Travel Club, which launches in January next year, will not only offer the chance to buy tickets and travel packages to European Tour events, but to be involved in the tournament, too.

Pro-Am places will be available to buy, giving customers the opportunity to tee it up alongside some of the world’s best golfers, and there will also be options to purchase rounds on the course the day after the tournament finishes.

In addition, the club will offer packages to the European Tour’s network of world-class venues in its properties portfolio, including PGA Catalunya in Spain, Quinta do Lago in Portugal, Le Golf National in Paris, and Terre Blanche in the south of France, to name but a few.

Keith Pelley, chief executive of the European Tour, said: “‎People are increasingly seeking unique experiences on holiday and golfers are no different. Yes, they want the best courses and convenient accommodation, but never before have they been able to access our Pro-Am tournaments or play tournament courses on our schedule as part of a European Tour Travel package.”

The European Tour Travel Club will be operated by Golfbreaks. com, which covers over 2,000 venues around The Travel Club will offer the chance to play in Tour Pro-Ams the world.

Amazing Golf in North Wales

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TRAVEL | OCTOBER 2015 [37]

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Make a date with Daytona With great weather, great beaches and world-class golf courses, it’s not surprising that Daytona Beach is one of Florida’s fastest growing golf destinations.

The area is LPGA International famous for its fairways designed by the legends of the sport, where golf lovers will discover over 20 outstanding courses to challenge every skill level.

Located on the East coast of the Orange State, an hour’s easy drive from Orlando and central Florida’s numerous attractions, Daytona makes for a great beach and golfing escape.

The region is home to the LPGA International, which runs events throughout the year, as well as offering two championship courses: the signature Rees Jones course, which offers 7,088 yards of links-style play, and the Arthur Hills-designed course which challenges golfers with generous water and sand hazards.

Other courses in the area also offer pro-worthy play, such as Indigo Lakes, consistently ranked as one of Florida’s top 10 courses by GolfWeek magazine. Tee off surrounded by majestic live oaks and see a wealth of wildlife at the DeBary Golf & Country Club, or revel in the scenic fairways of the Pelican Bay Golf Club.

Destination Golf offers packages from the UK, starting from £829 per person, which include return flights from Gatwick to Orlando with Virgin Atlantic, seven nights’ accommodation at the Daytona Beach Resort based on two sharing, plus seven days’ compact car rental. In addition, the golf package includes four rounds at four different courses for £150 per person. The package is valid between now and December 15, and between January 1 and February 15, 2016.

To book your next Daytona Beach golf holiday, visit www.destinationgolf.co.uk or call 01737 771613.

Belton Woods

Join the Q for great value breaks The QHotels Group has grown to incorporate 11 UK-based golf resorts within its 27-strong hotel portfolio, offering golfers a wide choice of destinations – and 19 courses – throughout the country at which to enjoy great value breaks.

Golfers can choose from Aldwark Manor, Belton Woods, Cameron House, Dunston Hall, Forest Pines, Hellidon Lakes, Oulton Hall, Mottram Hall, The Westerwood and Telford Hotel.

Forest Pines is one of its most popular venues, with the Lincolnshire-based club featuring a superb 27-hole championship layout, where three loops of nine holes meander through a mix of majestic pine forest and open heathland. The most challenging combination is the Forest and Pines layout, which measures 6,859 yards. The shorter Beeches loop, with its three par threes, provides an ideal warm-up. The course, which was among the unsuccessful bidders to stage this year’s Solheim Cup, is always presented in top condition and is an easy walk.

After a round, guests can relax in the four-star hotel, which offers 188 bedrooms, a luxury spa, three restaurants and two bars.

The majority of QHotels boast spa and leisure clubs, offering treatments that include massage, manicure, pedicure, aromatherapy, detoxifying wraps and reflexology. The leisure clubs offer state-of-the-art fitness gyms, indoor heated swimming pools, saunas and steam rooms, and many also feature thermal suites, incorporating aroma steam rooms, ice fountains and experience showers.

All the hotels offer deluxe rooms, junior suites and large suites for those in search of absolute luxury. Each of the rooms is individually designed, with options such as spa baths or walk-in double showers.

Two nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast, and two rounds of golf at Forest Pines costs from £195 per person. For more details on the complete range of QHotels golf packages, visit www.qhotels. co.uk or call 0845 0345 777.

Nefyn

TheManor House

&

Ashbury Hotels

FREE GOLF At The UK’s Largest Golf Resort Set in the foothills of Dartmoor National Park, Devon, the Ashbury Hotel is the ideal venue for your golf break.

At least 27 holes of FREE golf with each night of stay!

Oakwood 16th 172 yards, Par 3

Savour the links of North Wales

If you want to enjoy some seriously rugged links golf, then you need only head to the fabulous coast of North Wales to experience some of the best links in the world.

With views of the sea from every tee, and eight holes played on the world-famous ‘Point’, it is no wonder Nefyn often draws comparisons with Pebble Beach. With the holes bounded on one side by rocky outcrops and the sea, and on the other by a glorious stretch of sandy beach, it’s an awe-inspiring spot.

Porthmadog, situated a mile from Portmerion, offers an intriguing mix of heathland and links golf. Designed by James Braid, the gorse and undulating fairways combine for a testing round. The back nine heads out to sea for a pure links challenge, with the 12th, which requires a carry over a narrow bay, forming an obvious highlight.

With its magnificent setting beneath the brooding Harlech Castle, Royal St David’s is one of the most photographed courses in the UK. Host of numerous top-class amateur events over the years, the course requires golfers to bring their complete game to score on its lengthy par of 69.

Exclusive Golf Breaks has put together a package to enjoy all three courses while staying for two nights at the Royal Sportsman Hotel in Portmadog, with prices starting at just £225 per person.

For more details call 01822 618181 or visit www.exclusivegolfbreaks.com.

Pines 17th 442 yards, Par 4

Our Courses - ALL ON ONE SITE! Kigbeare Par 72 6528 Pines Par 72 6400 Beeches Par 69 5803 Oakwood Par 68 5502 Ashbury 9 + Pines Front 9 Par 69 5775 Ashbury 9 + Pines Back 9 Par 71 6111 Willows Par 54 1939

January 2016 Bargain Breaks: Midweek breaks from £45pppn Full Board!

Additional Facilities FREE to residents of our hotels Sports Racket Sports Leisure Ranges Family Bowls Swimming Funhouse Tennis Archery Table Tennis Badminton Spa & Sauna Gamezone Air Pistols 5-A-Side Snooker Waterslides Air Rifles Squash Basketball Short Tennis Ten-Pin Lasers Play Area PLUS unique Craft Centre featuring 17 tutored crafts, including Pottery, Woodwork, Glass Engraving & Hot Press Printing

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All rooms en-suite • Full board • Child rates • Party discounts

[38] OCTOBER 2015

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SarahStirk

THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC IS TIPPED TO BE ONE OF THIS YEAR’S HOTTEST GOLF HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS, NOT LEAST BECAUSE OF THE SHEER QUANTITY OF TOP-CLASS GOLF COURSES SPROUTING UP ON ITS CRAGGY SHORES, SAYS SARAH STIRK

VIVA

E

ven if you are the proud owner of a GCSE in geography, you might not be entirely sure where the Dominican Republic is. Your instinct might suggest that it’s close to the Caribbean somewhere, but did you realise that it shared the island of La Hispaniola with Haiti? In fact, it’s just east of Cuba, west of Puerto Rico, south of the Bahamas, north east of Jamaica, very close to the Tropic of Cancer, and is sandwiched between the Atlantic to the north and the Caribbean to the south.

Including a stopover in Paris, the Air France flight from Heathrow takes about 12 hours, but as soon as you step out of the aircraft into the balmy tropical air, you sense that the effort has been worth it.

Golf in the Dominican Republic is having its time in the sun right now. It’s currently one of the hottest places in the world to go golfing, and its reputation is growing by the year. Admittedly, it’s suffered in the past with tales of food poisoning woes and packages holiday nightmares, but just look at the quality of the courses and the high end resorts moving in, and it’s obvious things are changing.

With ocean vistas a plenty, and courses which hug the shoreline, the Dominican Republic is arguably the best golf destination in the Caribbean. Visiting golfers to the nation increased by 40 percent last year, with those numbers set to keep on rising.

Pete Dye’s iconic Teeth of the Dog course at the luxurious Casa de Campo resort celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2011, and should be on everyone’s bucket list. It features three spectacular par threes and is oceanside golf at its finest. It’s the Dominican Republic’s signature layout, but Tom Fazio, Jack Nicklaus, Nick Price and plenty of others, have built upon that wonderful foundation. Here are five more of the best courses to tackle and an update on a new luxury arrival.

CORALES, PUNTACANA RESORT This immaculate Fazio design opened in 2010 as an exclusive playground with limited public tee times.

The Corales course takes an Augusta National approach to its conditioning, with no blade of grass out of place.

The three ocean holes starting at No.16 are called ‘El Codo Del Diablo’ (‘The Devil’s Elbow’). The two coastal stunners that finish the front nine, the par-4 eighth hole and par-3 ninth, might be even better.

Crooner Julio Iglesias and dress designer Oscar de la Renta - two investors at Puntacana - own secluded homes on the course, as does Russian ballet dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov. puntacana.com, Green Fees: $295 PUNTA ESPADA GOLF CLUB, CAP CANA Jack Nicklaus introduced Punta Espada to the troubled Cap Cana development in 2006 by making a birdie on the incredible par-three 13th hole over the ocean. Several of the tees and greens of the eight picturesque seaside holes are so close to the rocky coast that golfers can actually feel the ocean spray on their faces while playing. Even the so-called inland holes are not short of drama or appeal. At a gimme shy of 7,400 yards off the back tees, it’s certainly not short, and even the great players of the Champions Tour, which hosted a tournament here for several years, learned to respect it. puntacana.com, Green Fees: $275 DYE FORE, CASA DE CAMPO In 2011 Pete Dye added another nine holes to an amazing facility that dances on the cliff tops of a 300-foot-deep river gorge. The 27-hole facility boasts spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea, the Dominican mountains (the highest in the

LA REPUBLIC!

Punta Espada, Domincan Republic

Caribbean), the Chavon River and the Casa de Campo Marina. Dye Fore might play second fiddle to Teeth of the Dog, but it’s certainly not a secondtier experience. casadecampo.com.do, Green Fees: $200 GUAVABERRY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB This 7,156-yard Gary Player design sits in the jungles of Juan Dolio, less than an hour from the airport of the capital, Santo Domingo. Player designed two greens separated by a waterfall on the parthree 13th hole, a unique twist on an otherwise straightforward resort course just minutes from the Costa Caribe Corale Resort, Spa & Casino. guavaberrygolf.com.

Green Fees: $85 CANA BAY PALACE AT THE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO, PUNTA CANA The golf at Cana Bay Palace, an inland

13th hole at Guavaberry

18th hole at Corales

HOW TO GET THERE Air France flies to Punta Cana three times a week from London. It also operates three flights a week to Santo Domingo, Las Americas. Both flights are from Heathrow and go via Paris.

For more information, visit www.airfrance.com. For golf packages visit www. yourgolftravel.com.

7,253-yard course designed by Jack Nicklaus, resides conveniently inside the gates of a sprawling all-inclusive resort just 35 minutes from Punta Cana airport.

The fairways at Cana Bay Palace start out quite generously, but narrow as the round goes on. The 453-yard ninth is both the hardest and the prettiest hole with water at every turn. hardrockhotelpuntacana.com, Green Fees: $200 PLAYA GRANDE, AMANERA RESORT If further proof were needed that the Dominican Republic has hit luxury heights, you have it with the arrival of the ultra-elite Aman Group and its Amanera resort.

Named after the Sanskrit word for peace – ‘aman’ and ‘era’ – the word for water in Taino, the language historically spoken by indigenous people of the Caribbean. It is set on a cliff top, overlooking the crescent-shaped Playa Grande beach, and framed by the dramatic Cordillera Septentrional mountain range, making the resort is the hotel group’s first golfintegrated property. Sprawling over 170 acres of picturesque coastline, the Playa Grande Golf Course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr, and is currently being renovated by his son, Rees, and not open for play.

With 10 dramatic holes located hard by the sea, it is not hard to understand why the layout is described as the ‘the Pebble Beach of the Caribbean’, although it may have some way to go before it lives up to that lofty comparison.

However, the 7,085-yard course provides amazingly open Pebble Beach-style vistas, cliffside fairways, and sloping greens. playagrande.com

TRAVEL | OCTOBER 2015 [39]

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Me&MyTravels My first ever holiday was to…

Butlins Holiday Camp in Ayr. My most recent holiday was to... California. We stayed in Los Angeles, drove down to Big Sur, and experienced the great outdoors. It’s different every time. You can see the desert, go up to San Francisco, drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, and, of course, stop in Monterey and play golf at Pebble Beach – although sadly the clubs stayed at home this time.

My favourite golf venue in the UK is... Gleneagles. Not just because of the three courses, but for the whole place. It’s a quintessentially traditional Scottish resort, with a real sense of history and belonging, and the scenery doesn’t come much better either. Loch Lomond is also pretty special, particularly in the winter. You go from the

madness of Glasgow to an incredibly tranquil world in about 40 minutes. It’s like a different country. The people are more relaxed and, if you add in a great game of golf, you’ve got the perfect day.

SCOTLAND FOOTBALL MANAGER GORDON STRACHAN WILL SADLY HAVE SOME TIME OFF NEXT SUMMER, BUT AT LEAST HE’LL BE ENJOY HIS FAVOURITE HOLIDAY PASTIME

My most memorable holiday meal was… a bush supper in the middle of the Kruger National Park in South Africa, surrounded by a herd of elephants and various other wildlife.

Edinburgh Castle

My ideal holiday fourball would include... Stephen Gallacher, Paul Lawrie and Colin Montgomerie, because at least we would be able to understand each other!

Gleneagles Hotel

My most memorable ever round was... the first time that my father, my two boys and I played together at La Manga Club in Spain.

My favourite golf resort is...

La Manga. We’ve had a house there for over 25 years, and we go whenever we can with all generations of the family. The golf academy facilities are superb, as are the three 18-hole courses.

It’s a great place to relax away from the pressures of football.

La Manga

I always travel with... my wife, Lesley. We’ve been together since we were 17, so we can’t be without each other. The only problem is there must be thousands of pictures of her

taken all around the world, but none of me, because there’s never anyone around to take photos of us together! I’m also never without my iPad for catching up on games when I’m away.

My favourite city in the world is... Edinburgh. I used to grow up thinking every town had an impressive castle. It wasn’t until I moved away that I grew to appreciate how unique the city is.

There is always something new to discover.

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My worst holiday experience was... nearly drowning in a public swimming pool when on holiday in Dunbar when I was a kid. I remember going down a slide and being pulled out from the water by a couple of lads because I couldn’t swim.

When I’m on holiday I like to… get out and explore. As a footballer, I travelled all around the world, but never really took anything in. As you get older, you start to notice things that wouldn’t have meant anything to you 20 or 30 years ago. These days, if I visit a historic building, I want to know everything about it: when it was built, how it was built, where every brick came from.

I never go on holiday without... a big supply of Yorkshire Tea. The lack of a good cuppa on my travels has taught me to be prepared!

I’m planning a golf trip to... La Manga. A good friend passed away last year, and I am playing in a charity day in his memory.

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