Golf News Autumn 2018

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ISSUE 278 | AUTUMN 2018 | TWITTER: @GOLFNEWSMAG | WEB: GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

RYDER CUP PREVIEW Who will come out on top in Paris?

I'm still hungry for success EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH GRAEME MCDOWELL

INTERVIEWS Georgia Hall Richard McEvoy Phil Golding

EQUIPMENT Wedge Showcase New gear from Cleveland and Srixon

TRAVEL Me & My Travels with Brian McFadden Korineum, Cyprus

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Untouched, Unspoilt, Tranquil

BY

NICK BAYLY

North Cyprus Golf Holidays

COLOUR-BLIND TO GOLF’S GENDER OBSESSION

7N

GOLF IGHTS HOLI DAYS FROM

ONLY

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aced with seven weeks of having two ‘tweenage’ kids – that’s that awkward age between 11 and 14, when they’re too young to be left at home on their own and too old to be interested in doing anything cultural with their parents – I was left with no other option this summer than to take them down to our local golf club to further their golfing education.

I’ll admit that I’ve fallen well short of turning them into the mini Tour pros that I had expected them to become when they were first brought into this world, but they also like playing football, hockey and cricket, and running around an athletics track, so golf, which none of their school friends are interested in, is low down on their list of sporting priorities, despite having a dad who is vaguely connected to the game.

All that is a long way of saying that neither of them are sufficiently adept at getting round a full-size golf course without a good deal of hitting and missing, especially the youngest – who seems to have modeled his swing speed on Tiger Woods, but there the similarities end.

So it was that after finding a suitably quiet time on for us to tee off, I hurriedly shepherded my offspring to the first tee at our local course, which is thankfully out of sight of the clubhouse. It had been a year or so since I’d last played it, but I was somewhat surprised to find that where once it had been a simple choice between white, yellow and reds, there were now no fewer than five different tees from which to play – black, blue, green, purple and red.

The boys knew enough to remember that the red tees were ‘for girls’ (their words, not mine), but seemed less concerned about playing off the purples, which were only a few yards behind. Thus we played the whole round from these considerably forward tees – which took over 1,000 yards off the length of the course – and, barring a few shanks, plenty of rummaging around in the woods and the rough, and more than a dozen lost balls, we had a great time.

As a inconsistent 15-handicapper with the propensity for a big hook off the tee, I was delighted to be able to leave the big stick in the bag more often, hit a few shorter irons into the par threes, reach the odd par five in two, and even get close to the green on the occasional par four, while the boys were kept entertained by the more interesting design and better quality of greens that are offered on the full-size course, when compared to the pitch-and-putts they's grown up on.

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INCL U FLIGH DES 4 RO TS + U OF G NDS OLF

The youngest was, of course, disappointed by the lack of windmills, tunnels and ramps that he is accustomed to on the crazy putting courses that I insist on playing every time we visit the coast, but all told it was a truly life-affirming experience to take my two boys on their first ‘big boys’ golf course together – the eldest had joined me on a half-a-dozen previous outings.

The round also got me thinking that too many golfers are hung up on the tees they play from, and a lot more newcomers, as well as many older players and higher handicappers, would enjoy the game far more if we did away with the gender-association of tees altogether, and treated them as just tees. Golfers like a challenge, but they also like variety, and who wouldn’t like to chalk up a few more pars and birdies, rather than constantly racking up bogeys for two points with a shot?

And why is it that women are only offered one set of tees, while men can play from a choice of three or four? Surely there are some lower handicap women who would prefer to play off the yellows or whites, or whatever colour codes are in place? In fact, why not take it a step further and get rid of colours completely, and just have tees numbered with the yardage, as they do at many courses in Sweden, where the 60s are 6,000 yards, the 54s are 5,400, and so on. Each set of tees can have its own standard scratch score or course rating, so handicaps and competitions can be played from anywhere.

A number of clubs have already introduced forward junior tees, located half-way down the fairway, to help youngsters get more enjoyment from the game when they’re just starting out, but the same needs to apply for adults, so they too can continue to get pleasure from a sport that is already hard enough as it is. So leave you egos at home and start playing from the right tees for your game.

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[6]

AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Davies Rules Out Solheim Captaincy

L

■ DAVIES HAS NO DESIRE TO LEAD EUROPE'S SOLHEIM CUP TEAM

Disabled Golfer

Sues Brentwood Council Over Buggy Ban

A ONE-LEGGED GOLFER from Essex is suing his local council for discrimination after he was banned from driving a buggy.

Paul Houghton says Brentwood Council's policy requiring golf buggy users to produce a letter from their doctor to prove they are disabled is discriminatory.

Houghton's right leg was amputated below the knee in 2000 after he contracted the flesh-eating bug necrotizing fasciitis from kneeling in contaminated water while working as a roofer. He has represented England at disability golf and needs a buggy to get around an 18-hole course because his prosthetic leg causes pressure sores.

Arriving for a game at Hartswood Golf Course in Essex in 2016, he was told he could not use his buggy without a letter from his doctor proving that he needed it.

■ PAUL HOUGHTON ON HIS PERSONAL BUGGY

The course is owned and operated by Brentwood Council. The council's policy says a buggy ‘may be used by a player who can provide a valid current medical certificate of disability in accordance with this policy and has requested permission to use a golf buggy seven days prior to their visit’.

Houghton said he was ‘gobsmacked’ by their stance, which he says ‘sends the message that disabled people aren't welcome’. "I've played over 100 courses around England, and all around the world, and I've not been treated in this way before," he said Houghton. “It sends the message that disabled people are different and can’t join in a sport that’s accessible to everybody, because we need to use other equipment to play the game.”

In a statement, the council said: “Brentwood Council is committed to ensuring safe access for everyone to all its facilities, and denies any discrimination and is fully defending the ongoing legal action. A full statement will be made once legal action has concluded."

aura Davies has ruled herself out of ever taking on the job of Europe's Solheim Cup captain.

Davies, who played in 12 matches between 1990 and 2011, and won 25 points out of a possible 46, would seem like an obvious candidate for the role, given

her vast experience as a player, but the 54-year-old from Ascot has said that nothing would persuade her to do the job.

"No, definitely not,” she said, when asked about the chances of her taking the reins for the 2021 renewal in America.

"I've played in 12, and I'd like to try to get in another one, but that's as far as it goes.

I'm not interested in the captaincy. I don't want to do it. I

love playing in it and love watching it, and I enjoy being part of the TV coverage, but that's as far as it goes."

Explaining some of the reasons for her lack of interest in the position, Davies added: “Part of the job is to look after the 12 players, get them bananas and towels, that sort of thing, and that's something I don't really want to do. For one week every two years, the players

seem to lose the ability to function normally, and it would drive me insane.”

Catriona Matthew, who will be captaining Europe at Gleneagles in 2019, said: "It's a shame Laura doesn't want to do it. Obviously, you can't force people to do what they don't want to do. It’s her decision, but I'm sure if she wanted to do it, she would get the chance.”

NEWS | AUTUMN 2018

[7]

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Trevose To Host New Senior Tour Event

TREVOSE GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB is to make a welcome return to hosting top-flight professional golf next season, when it stages a new tournament on the Staysure Tour.

The popular North Cornwall club has been chosen to host the Farmfoods European Legends Links Championship, a brand new tour event on the senior tour schedule that will take place from June 20-23, 2019.

Trevose has hosted a number of prestigious national amateur events over the years, including the Brabazon and the McGregor trophies, but this

■ TREVOSE WILL HOST THE STAYSURE TOUR NEXT SUMMER

will mark the first time the south-west venue has staged an event on the over50s' professional circuit.

The tournament, which will have a prize fund of £200,000, will get underway with a pro-am on June 20, where teams of one professional and three amateurs will compete over the club’s Championship course in a bid for team success. Day two will see the Alliance format of the week commence, where each Staysure Tour pro will link up with one amateur over the course of two days. The final day’s play will see the amateurs step aside, as the pros go head-to-head in a bid to win the championship title and a first prize of €50,000.

Trevose’s managing director, Nick Gammon, said: “Everyone here at Trevose is looking forward to hosting our first Staysure Tour event next year. We believe we have one of the finest links courses in the country, in one of the UK’s most idyllic locations.

It will be a fantastic occasion for us, and Cornwall as a whole, to welcome so many legends of the game for a wonderful festival of golf.”

The tournament is being organised

by Champions (UK) plc, which already looks after the Farmfoods European Senior Masters and the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship.

Prince’s Unveils New Short-Game Area PRINCE’S GOLF CLUB in Kent has opened a brand new short-game practice area as part of its on-going investment in the facilities at the Sandwich-based venue.

The club’s owners have invested over £50,000 to create a larger practice putting green, and two further practice greens with surrounding pot bunkers for pitching and chipping.

The project has taken just under 12 months to complete, with the new facilities first put into play by competitors taking part in final qualifying for the Open Championship in July.

■ PART OF THE NEW PRACTICE AREA AT PRINCE'S

Rob McGuirk, Prince’s general manager, said: “This is a very exciting development which adds to our existing excellent practice facilities, and will improve the experience for our members and visitors.

We used half of the old chipping green for the new par-three fifth hole on the Himalayas Course, which opened up space for us to create two new practice pot bunkers and additional run-off areas. Our plan is to continue adding to the area with another green which allows for longer pitch shots.”

The club opened the redesigned nine holes on the Himalaya’s course earlier in the year, and is planning to carry out works to the Shore and Dunes loops as part of an ambitious phase of redevelopment.

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NEWS | AUTUMN 2018

[9]

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Burnham & Berrow Hit By Fire

BURNHAM & BERROW GOLF CLUB’S historic links was partially burned by a fire that took hold of the course ■ FIRE CREWS PREVENTED THE FLAMES REACHING THE FAIRWAYS during the afternoon of August 5.

The flames took hold on a large area of rough between the seventh and 12th holes at the Somerset links, and destroyed 3,700 square metres of land before fire crews were able to put out the blaze three hours later.

The club was hosting a county match between Somerset and Cornwall at the time of the fire. The match was quickly abandoned and all the players made it safely off the course.

Six fire engines from the Devon & Cornwall Fire Service attended the scene and put out the blaze. Their efforts were aided by the golf club’s quick-thinking greenkeepers, who managed to activate the course’s pop up sprinkler system to prevent the fairways from being destroyed. Despite the extensive damage, the club was able to open for play the following day.

■ MEL REID IN ACTION AT THE GOLFSIXES EVENT HELD AT CENTURION EARLIER THIS YEAR

Reid Joins Centurion As Tour Ambassador

SOLHEIM CUP STAR MELISSA REID is the latest tour professional to be appointed as an ambassador for the Centurion Club in Hertfordshire.

Reid, 30, who is currently playing most of her golf on the LPGA Tour in America, will represent the club wherever she plays on tour and will carry the club’s crest on

her golf bag. She will be able to enjoy free access to the club, its 18-hole course, and the wide range of practice facilities on offer at the exclusive venue.

Commenting on her attachment, Reid said: "Earlier this year, while competing in the GolfSixes event at Centurion, I was struck by the quality of the course and facilities, as well as the atmosphere around the club. I am extremely pleased and excited to now be attached to Centurion, and to represent the club when

I compete around the world."

Reid will join European Tour player Oliver Fisher on the ambassadorial team at Centurion. The 29-year-old from Essex was signed up in 2016 and is a regular visitor.

The club, which opened in 2013 as a members-only venue, boasts a 7,195-yard championship course located on a 250-acre site between St Albans and Hemel Hempstead. The clubhouse, which features a restaurant overseen by Michelin-starred chef Jeff Galvin, opened in 2016.

[10] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

InBrief OLD THORNS TO HOST BLIND GOLF CHARITY DAY ★ The Blind Golf Association is hosting its annual charity day at Old Thorns Golf & Country Estate in Hampshire on October 18.

Entries are welcomed from teams of four golfers wishing to support the day, which comprises breakfast from 8am, followed by a shotgun start at 9.30am for 18 holes, and a two-course meal and prize giving. The cost of a team is £300. For bookings, contact Ben Blackburn on 0330 088 3384 or email ben@benblackburngolf.com.

SATTELKAU CAPTURES ENGLISH GIRLS’ OPEN ★ Germany’s Celina Sattelkau became the first overseas winner of the English Girls’ Open Amateur Championship after finishing on 10 under par at East Devon Golf Club. The 17-year-old finished three shots ahead of Kirsten Rudgeley of Australia, while Italy’s Maria Corbi was third on four-under. The leading English player was Mimi Rhodes (Burnham & Berrow), who finished on two-under.

WESTWOOD TO RECEIVE PGA RECOGNITION AWARD ★ Lee Westwood is to receive the PGA Recognition Award for his outstanding contribution to the game of golf during the Professional Golfers’ Association’s annual fundraising lunch. The seven-time Ryder Cup winner will be the guest of honour at this year’s event, which takes place at London’s Grosvenor House on December 21.

Wimbledon Park Members Set For

£65m Windfall

THE ALL ENGLAND CLUB has tabled a bid of £65 million to buy the 73-acre plot of land on which Wimbledon Park Golf Club’s 18-hole course and clubhouse is located, which, if accepted, will result in a huge payout for all the golf club’s members.

The tennis club has plans for a huge expansion and sees nearby Wimbledon Park as the perfect vehicle to achieve this.

The final offer is thought to be about £15 million higher than a former one, which would see each of the club’s 750 members receive about £80,000 after tax. The large increase in the offer is believed to be down to the club wanting its more recent new members to receive the same sort of windfall as their more longstanding peers.

Members of the golf club have received an official letter from All England chairman Philip Brook, offering the terms in the hope of persuading them to accept the deal.

A statement from the All England Club said: “For many years Wimbledon has explored

Fowler Finds His Form At Hanbury

■ PETER FOWLER WITH MAGGS AND BOB WILSON

■ WIMBLEDON PARK IS SET TO SWALLOWED UP BY THE ALL ENGLAND CLUB'S EXPANSION

ways of gaining much needed extra space, with the particular desire of wishing to stage its qualifying event on site, rather than at Roehampton three miles away.”

A major complication has been the golf club’s constitution, which states that only members of more than ten years’ standing would be

AUSTRALIAN PETER FOWLER won his first senior title in just over

three years as he emerged victorious at the Willow Senior Golf Classic held at Hanbury Manor in Hertfordshire.

The 59-year-old from Sydney, who is now a six-time winner on the European over-50s circuit, started the final day at the Ware-based resort in a fourway share of the

compensated in the event of a bid to release the land. The golf club’s board brought in a raft of external legal and financial consultants to look at the complex process, and the result is an increased offer from £50 million to £65 million, with all members being treated equally.

Currently 40 per cent of the membership have

lead on nine under par, and carded his second consecutive round of 69 to finish on 12 under, two strokes clear of Clark Dennis and Gary Orr. The lead changed hands on numerous occasions throughout the day, with Roger Chapman, Phil Golding, Santiago Luna and Miguel Ángel Martín all staking their claims for

the title.

A birdie on the parfour 14th hole proved crucial, however, as Fowler moved one stroke

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NEWS | AUTUMN 2018

[11]

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been at the club for fewer than 10 years.

It is likely that the golf club’s members will be offered two votes this year: the first will be on whether they should permit a ballot on the sale, which would require a 75 per cent majority; and the second on whether to accept the All England Club’s offer.

The new offer also allows for nine holes of the course at the southern end of the site to remain in use – although one year after agreement this would be on a rolling notice of 12 months to quit. It is thought this is partly because there are a number of protected trees in that location.

The golf club will, in any event, fall under the All England Club’s control in 2041, after it bought the leasehold from Merton Council in 1993.

■ FULL HOUSE: WIMBLEDON NEEDS SPACE TO EXPAND

clear of the pack. His fourth birdie of the day, on the 18th hole, rubber-stamped his first win since the Seniors PGA Championship in 2015.

“It’s hard work getting your game into shape to win,” said Fowler. “There’s lot of younger players coming through, and

I’m glad I stayed on top today.”

Fowler, one of the most consistent players on the Staysure Tour, has recorded tied second, third, sixth, eighth and tenth finishes so far this year. He has also finished inside the top ten 21 times in 44 starts since his last victory.

InBrief ■ WOBURN IS TO HOST THE WOMEN'S OPEN FOR THE 11TH TIME IN 2019

TREBLE UP FOR ENGLAND AT HOME INTERNATIONALS

Woburn

T

op-flight women’s golf will return to Woburn Golf Club next year after the R&A announced that the 54-hole To Host Women’s British Open In 2019 Buckinghamshire venue had been chosen to host the Women’s British Open in 2019.

The club has staged the tournament on ten previous occasions, the first nine of which were held on the Duke’s Course, while the 2016 renewal was played on the Marquess.

Thailand’s Ariya Jutanugarn, who won the title two years ago, was delighted to hear that the championship is returning to the scene of her first Major triumph. She said: “I am so happy to hear that we will be back playing on the Marquess Course. I know everyone always says they like the courses where they have won before, but I think I actually won because I loved everything about my week at Woburn so much. The crowds were amazing, the facilities were perfect, and the course totally suited my game. I cannot wait to see everyone there in 2019.”

Woburn is also the home club of Solheim Cup star Charley Hull, and she was equally pleased that the tournament is returning to a club and a course that she knows so well. Having finished tied 17th in 2016, aged 20, she is determined to improve on that result next year, with a few more years’ experience under her belt.

"It would be great to win the British Open, especially at your home golf course," she said. "There's going to be a lot of pressure on me once again, but hopefully I’ll be able to concentrate on my game. For some reason I felt really nervous playing in front of my home fans last time, but I’m a much stronger player mentally now, so ■ CHARLEY HULL hopefully that will stand me in good stead.”

★ England won the Boys' Home Internationals for the third consecutive year after defeating Ireland, Scotland and Wales in the round-robin competition held at Royal Dornoch in Scotland.

England and Ireland played out the title decider on the third and final day, and the defending champions ran out 8-7 winners to retain the trophy. England has now won the under-18 team event 17 times since 1996. Ireland took the runner’s-up spot, while Scotland finished third place after beating Wales 11-4 in their final match.

HOLPFER RECORDS 11-SHOT WIN AT ENGLISH WOMEN’S AMATEUR ★ Austria’s Isabella Holpfer completed a stunning frontrunning performance in the English Women’s Open Amateur Championship when finishing 11 shots clear of the field at Coventry Golf Club on August 22. The 17-year-old was 13 under par for 72 holes.

The runner-up, on two under par, was Pasqualle Coffa of the Netherlands, followed by Ireland’s Jessica Ross, who took third place on level. The leading English players, all scoring one over, were Georgia Price (Bude & North Cornwall), Cara Gainer (Castle Royle) and Lily May Humphreys (Stoke by Nayland).

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[12] AUTUMN 2018 | INTERVIEW GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

HALL THE HISTORY MAKER Goodwood’s Georgia Hall has long been seen as a future star, but she confirmed her status as one of the finest female golfers of her generation when she swept aside a world-class field to become the first English winner of the Women’s British Open since 2004, and the first home-grown player to capture the British Girls', the British Ladies' and the British Open

D

id you ever expect your first professional win would come at a major, and the Women’s British Open of all events?

Given how long I’ve gone without a win, I’ve been joking for a while that it wouldn’t surprise that my first one would come at a major. To win on the European Tour or the LPGA Tour is one thing, but to win a major against the best players in the world is on another level altogether. I think that must bring out the best in me.

Ever since I started out in the game, when I was seven or so, I’ve always dreamed of having the chance to win the Open – you know, ‘this one’s to win the Open’ – when you’re practicing your putting, so to have my first win be at the Open is incredible.

At what point did you think you could win?

I arrived at Lytham feeling pretty confident. I love links golf, and I thrive on the home support. I had finished third last year, and felt in good form, so I knew that if everything fell into place I had a chance.

But, honestly, it wasn’t until I hit my second shot into 18 on Sunday that I felt like I had it under control. Despite having a three-shot lead, I knew that I still had to close it out on what is one of the toughest finishing holes in golf. I couldn’t even hit an iron off the tee for safety, as there were bunkers in the way, so I had to hit a 3-wood.

It was a tough pin to get at, as well. Walking up to the green, I told my dad that I’d be happy to take a three-putt here, and I did. I thought I would cry, but I just managed to hold it together there. So I was very happy to walk off with a bogey and close it out.

You looked really calm all week, and especially on Sunday, but what were you feeling on the inside?

Honestly, I felt more nervous during the third round than I did during the final round. And I didn't feel that many nerves on Sunday until the 18th. The whole week was incredible. I had so much support from the crowds, and to hear my name being cheered gave me a huge lift. I'm just so grateful to everyone who came out to support me.

It must have been a special moment to walk down the fairway with your dad, after all you’ve been through together. What did you say to each other?

It was amazing to have dad caddie for me and be there with me, but we didn’t say much, to be honest. I was checking I actually had a threeshot lead, in case the scoreboard was wrong or something!

■ HALL HAD HER FATHER, WAYNE, ON THE BAG AT THE BRITISH OPEN

What was the key to your success at Lytham?

I think I managed my game really well. At the start of the week, dad and I made a conscious decision to try and stay out of the fairway bunkers, which are basically a one-shot penalty at Lytham.

So I laid up on a lot of par fours and fives to avoid the trouble, and relied on my long irons and fairway woods to get onto the green. Lytham is quite a long course, but I just had to convince myself that as long as I was on the fairway, then at least I'd get a shot to the green.

I think I went in seven greenside bunkers all week and managed to get up-and-down every time, so I was really pleased with that. So, while I had some long shots into some of the greens, I was confident enough in my short game that I would be able to limit the damage. I also had a good week with the putter, which always helps, but I still felt like I left a lot of putts out there.

You’ve spoken about the times you were unable to play in majors that you had qualified for due to lack of money. Did those missed opportunities make you even more hungry to make up lost time?

Growing up, money was sometimes tight, and I missed three majors as an amateur that I qualified for. That was a bit frustrating at the time, but dad always said that if my golf's good enough, then it can take me anywhere, regardless of how much money we have. Dad helped me throughout, as a golfer and a person, and I can’t thank him enough.

So now that I'm in every major, like I was this year, like to prepare for them well and do the best that I can.

[14] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Wallace

Bags Third Win Of The Year But Misses Out On Ryder Cup Spot

H

ertfordshire’s Matt Wallace won a four-man play-off to capture his third European Tour title

■ MATT WALLACE HAS BEEN IN SUPERB FORM THIS YEAR

Hazlemere Up For Sale But Not For Housing

HAZELMERE GOLF CLUB, which is currently up for sale, looks certain to continue as a golf venue after the club's general manager quashed speculation that the golf club is set to close down and be converted into a housing estate.

Rumours of a potential sale to a property developer broke almost as soon as the Buckinghamshire-based club was put on the market, but the venue’s general manager, Jerry Young, has confirmed that Hazlemere is to be sold as a going concern, and its future as a golf club is all but assured.

“Rumours have been flying around since news of the sale got out,” said Young. “If you listened to some of the scare stories, you’d believe the course is about to become concreted over for a housing estate. I can tell you 100 per cent it is not. It will remain a

golf club well into the future.”

Young said that a number of potential buyers had already shown interest and the decision to sell, which was made by the club’s board of directors, and approved by its 400-strong membership, was so that a new owner could invest in the facility.

“We have buyers lined up. All of them are experienced corporate operators, not private individuals. Some of the companies plan to run the club themselves, others would buy it on a sale and lease back basis, in which case the members would still be in control. The decision to sell was because the club needs more investment to ensure it keeps its competitive edge.

The clubhouse is looking a bit tired, and needs refurbishment, and the course needs improving.”

The 5,900-yard, par-70 course, where former world number one Luke Donald first learnt to swing a club, is on the market with a guide price of £1.75 million.

of the season at the Made in Denmark tournament, but it still wasn’t quite enough to earn hims a captain’s pick for the Ryder Cup. The Moor Park man birdied five of his last six holes at Silkeborg Ry Golf Club to close with a 67 to get to 19 under alongside Steven Brown, Jonathan Thomson and Lee Westwood, before birdies on both extra holes earned him a stunning fourth career victory on Europe's top tour.

Wallace, who also won the Indian Open in March and the BMW International Open in June, said: “I’m absolutely ecstatic. The hard work has paid off once again. I showed plenty of determination and grit out there, and I’m delighted to have pulled off the win. You need to putt well to win out here, and I've found a way to put myself under pressure in practice, and then it comes up trumps on a Sunday.”

The win, which came with a first prize

of €250,000, moved Wallace up to 17th in the Race to Dubai rankings and 52nd in the world rankings – the first time he has broken into the top 60.

But despite his impressive run of form, Wallace didn’t earn enough points to secure one of the eight automatic spots in Thomas Bjørn’s team, and, with so many more experienced players also relying on a captain’s pick, it was always going to be tough for the North London player to force

his way into the team from 13th place on the European points list.

“I think I gave Thomas something to think about, but in the end it probably wasn’t quite enough,” said Wallace. “I put myself under pressure by saying that I wanted to give him a headache, and I did just that. I stepped up to the mark and showed exactly what I'm about.

Now I’ve just got to concentrate on getting some more wins under my belt and see where it takes me.”

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[15]

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Thurloway

TOM THURLOWAY’S superb season Wins Amateur Championship reached new heights last month when he won the Amateur Championship after beating Gloucestershire's Joe Long 6&5 in the 36-hole final held at Formby Golf Club.

The 20-year-old from Crawley arrived at the Lancashire links in fine form, having won the Walton Heath Trophy the previous week and the Sussex Amateur the week before that, but he topped those impressive performances at Formby, running away with the final to write his name in the record books alongside the likes of Danny Willett, Tommy Fleetwood and Paul Casey, all of whom are past winners of the tournament.

“The Walton Heath Trophy was my

■ TOM THURLOWAY WITH COACH RYAN FENWICK

biggest win, but this has just topped it,” said Thurloway, who is a member at Chartham Park in East Grinstead. “I’ve been pushing and pushing, and over the last few weeks I’ve got into the right frame of mind to be winning – and winning on a big stage. It’s a massive result for me."

Thurloway matched his long hitting with very some very impressive approach play in the final, and was eight under par for the 31 holes he played before wrapping up the match, while Long was three under.

Victory at Formby came on the back of a stunning victory in the Walton Heath Trophy for the Michael Lunt Salver, where he shot rounds of 69, 68, 69 and 73 for a nine-under-par total of 279 to capture the title by two strokes from Chelmsford’s Alasdair Plumb.

“I had played terribly the week before in the Tillman Trophy, and my head was all over the place,” said Thurloway. “But I had a good chat with my coach, Ryan Fenwick, who coaches European Tour pro Justin Walters, and he helped cleared my mind.”

Thurloway is now back in America where he studying for a golf scholarship at Jacksonville University in Florida. He

spent his freshman year at the University of Toledo, but decided to switch to Florida in search of better weather and stronger competition.

Fenwick, who has been coaching Thurloway since last November, and has worked with him at Sussex and England level for the past few years, is confident that his pupil has what it takes to make an impact at the very top of the game. He said: “The exciting thing with Tom is his power, and the immense distances he can hit the ball under control. We also spent a bit of time over the summer working on a stinger shot for playing in hard and fast conditions, and it certainly paid off at Walton Heath. I grew up playing with some great golfers – Justin Rose, Luke Donald and Paul Casey. He reminds a lot of Paul. His work ethic is fantastic too, so he has every chance.”

Streeter Secures First Senior Title At Travis Perkins

ENGLISHMAN PAUL STREETER held his nerve to complete a stunning wire-towire victory at the Travis Perkins Masters at Woburn Golf Club after posting a final round 73 to finish on 12 under par.

He was pushed all the way by American Clark Dennis, who carded a six-under-par 66 to finish second, two shots behind the winner. But the day – and the week – belonged to Streeter, after he equalled Colin Montgomerie’s 72-hole scoring record at the Travis Perkins Masters on his first visit to the Duke’s Course.

The 51-year-old from Lincolnshire started his final round with a birdie at the second to settle his nerves, but a bogey on the seventh meant he made the turn in 35,

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while Dennis began closing the gap with a four-under 31. The 2017 Order of Merit winner continued to apply the pressure with 35 on the back nine, but Streeter kept him at arm’s length to claim his maiden senior tour title.

“It was one of the longer rounds of golf, but I’m absolutely over the moon,” he said.

“I played nicely today. I felt very nervous before I teed off, but once I got that first tee shot away, I felt alright.”

He added: “When I played a practice round earlier in the week, I thought, ‘Crikey, I’d take anything under par round here’. So when I shot six under and seven under, I really didn’t see that score out there. I played great all week, so I can’t complain.”

Streeter admits fellow Staysure Tour member and good friend David Shacklady’s victory at the Senior Russian Open Golf Championship somewhat inspired him.

“A win is fantastic,” he said. “My mate Shackers won a few weeks ago in Moscow, and he was telling me that it’s my turn, I’ve got to do one now. We play practice rounds together all the time, so just to know that I can compete is fantastic.”

[16] AUTUMN 2018 | INTERVIEW

MAC ATTACK

Golf News catches up with Essex-based Tour professional Richard McEvoy, who transformed his 18-year career during a golden spell in July when he won on the Challenge Tour and then the European Tour to secure his card for the next two years

■ MCEVOY HOLES OUT ON THE LAST TO WIN HIS FIRST EUROPEAN TOUR EVENT

H

RICHARD MCEVOY FACTFILE AGE: 39 TURNED PRO: 2001 LIVES: LEIGH-ON-SEA, ESSEX WORLD RANKING: 143 RACE TO DUBAI RANKING: 61 EUROPEAN TOUR APPEARANCES: 286 1 EUROPEAN TOUR WIN: PORSCHE EUROPEAN OPEN 2018 3 CHALLENGE TOUR WINS: PANASONIC PANAMA OPEN 2005, SSE SCOTTISH HYDRO CHALLENGE 2017, LE VAUDREIL CHALLENGE 2018 CAREER PRIZE MONEY: €1,997,953 BEST ORDER OF MERIT FINISH: 101ST (2010) STROKE AVERAGE: 71.57 (2017)

ave you been able to take stock of what you have achieved over the last few weeks?

It’s been a slightly manic time, but I have had some time to celebrate with family, friends and those who have supported me other the years. I had already planned to take a holiday with the family before I won in Germany, and had a few other commitments away from tournament golf, but it’s also a very important period in the season, and I need to get back out there and make the most of the remaining opportunities that I’ve got on the European Tour. I’m currently 61st in the Race to Dubai, and need to get into the top 60 to qualify for the final three events, so that’s my next target over the coming weeks.

You came into the Vaudreil Challenge on the back of some indifferent form. What changed for you that week, and did you feel like a performance was coming?

Although my results hadn’t been that great in the run up to France, I felt like I was swinging it well, and was confident that if everything fell into place in the same week, then I could put a score together.

Two weeks before, I was invited by David Howell to take part in a pro-am at Queenwood Golf Club. David’s a good friend of mine and he’s a member there, and every year the membership invites some pros to come along. Given the exclusive nature of Queenwood, and the type of members it has, the tournament drew an impressive field, including Rory McIlroy, Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood, Adam Scott, Jon Rahm and a few other top players – it was crazy, it was like a mini-WGC event.

I managed to shoot 64 to win the tournament, and that gave me a real psychological boost. It may not have been a proper tour event, but we were playing for a decent prize fund, and to shoot that score alongside that group of players was a real shot in the arm for me. I owe David a few beers!

So I arrived in France feeling pretty good about things. I had played Le Vaudreil course a few times before, and knew that it suited my game. I just felt comfortable from the start. I shot 64 and 66 to be five shots clear of the field after two rounds, and then shot two 68s over the weekend to win by two. It was great get the win, but I was also really pleased with the way I managed to lead for all four days and hold up under the pressure.

Finishing it off down the stretch is always good for your confidence, so I took that form with me to Germany.

■ RICHARD MCEVOY PROUDLY SHOWS OFF HIS PORSCHE EUROPEAN OPEN TROPHY

Needing to birdie the last hole to win the European Open, you opted to lay up short of the green and hope to get up and down.

What discussions did you have with your caddy before you made that decision?

My second shot was purely dictated by the lie I had in the rough. If I had found the fairway, I would have gone for the green all day long, but my ball was sitting down a bit in the semi-rough, and there

really was no chance of reaching the green with any kind of control from that lie. With water in front, the only sensible play was to chip out and wedge in. Once we’d seen the lie, there was no discussion, and I was pretty confident that I could hit it reasonably close from there, and give myself a solid chance at making birdie. In the end, I came up a little short, leaving me something like 18 feet to the pin. As I walked on to the green, I felt incredibly calm. It was an uphill right-to-left putt, which I had played and practised before, so I had a pretty good read on it. It was incredible when it dropped. It was a very emotional moment.

Did ever you wonder whether you’d ever manage to win at the top level?

I always knew that I had the game to make it on tour, but winning isn’t easy at any level out here. There are 150-odd players trying to win every week and 149 of them end up losing, so there are a lot of losers on the tours, in the nicest possible way. Of course, I would have liked to have not waited 280-plus tournaments to get over the line on the European Tour, but that makes it all the more special.

Of course, there have been some difficult times over the years, but I never felt like giving up at any point. I’m lucky to have a very loyal group of supporters behind me, a great management team in Jenahura, while my wife and my parents have believed in me every step of the way. During a particularly difficult patch a few years ago, I set up a shareholder deal, so that I would split a percentage of whatever prize money I earned with them. That worked out well, and I can’t thank those guys have stayed with me enough.

Who is in Team McEvoy?

I wouldn’t call it a team as such, but my coach is Paul Holland, who I’ve been with for three years now. He’s based at Abridge Golf Club in North London. The work I’ve done with him over the last couple of winters has really brought my game back. I’ve gone back to a more natural way of playing, kind of freewheeling a bit, and just trying to enjoy my golf more and that’s really helped – playing with a smile on my face, rather than getting down on myself. We’ve also done a lot of work on my putting, which was previously one of the weaker parts of my game. That really paid off in both my wins, where I feel like my putting really held up under the pressure.

Where do you practise when you’re at home?

I do most of my practice either at my home club, Thorpe Hall in Southend, or at Abridge. I’ve been a member at Thorpe Hall since I was a junior, so it’s kind of a second home for me. Both clubs have indoor studios, so I can work on my game over the winter if need be. I used to go abroad to practise during the off-season in my earlier days, but with a young family on the scene, now I generally stay at home.

The club and the members at Thorpe Hall have been really supportive over the years, and I can’t thank them enough. They very kindly hosted a party for me over the August bank holiday, which was great. I took along the European Open trophy and we had a great day.

How pleased will you be not having to go through European Tour qualifying for a 13th time?

Yeah, besides the prize money, securing my tour card through to 2020, and not having to even think about Q School, is obviously one of the main benefits of winning. I was planning on playing a full Challenge Tour schedule this year, and trying to earn my European Tour card that way, but after winning in Germany I can now sit down and plan my schedule for next year and beyond, and know that I’ll be playing for decent prize money and really have a chance to take my career forward. I’ve done pretty well at qualifying school over the years, but it’s not how you want to start the beginning of every season, believe me!

Have you bought anything with the prize money yet?

Not yet, although there are one or two things that I’ve not been able to afford in the past that I’ve got my eye on!

TH E

S E R I E S P A C K E D

W I T H

Y O U R

P O T E N T I A L

[18] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Kent Pair

■ GEORGE BOXALL AND TOM ROBERTS

Sprint To Speedgolf Glory

THE WEST KENT PAIRING of George Boxall and Tom Roberts made the most of home advantage – and their impressive fitness – to win the Inaugural British Speedgolf Pairs Championships held at West Kent Golf Club.

Braving heatwave temperatures and a fastrunning course, the pair completed 18 holes in just 81 shots, and took only 41 minutes and six seconds, all of which added up to a SpeedGolf score of 122.06.

That total would have impressive under any

circumstances, but was extra special given the fiery playing conditions and the intense heat.

Roberts, who is the assistant pro at West Kent, said: “It was fantastic to win, but we still left a couple of shots out there, to be honest. The greens were so quick that it was difficult to remain patient while the ball carried on rolling!

We missed a few par putts that we would probably have holed in normal play, but that’s the balance you have to strike when you playing under the clock.”

The runners up were Chris Benians and Jamie Fowler, who shot 79 in 47 minutes and 57 seconds for a Speedgolf score of 126.57. The field also included several mixed pairs, while there were many players who were completely new to the sport.

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THE DRINKS were on Surrey amateur Ali Gibb last month after she bagged not one, but three holein-ones in the space of just five years, en route to retaining her club championship title at Croham Hurst Golf Club in Croydon.

Two of her aces were achieved at the same hole, the fifth, during the 36-hole tournament, while the third came at the 11th during the second round. Not surprisingly, she went on to win the title, although a five-over-par nine at the 18th hole during the first round, and eights at the first and tenth holes during the second round, ensured it wasn’t all plain sailing.

“It was definitely a day of highs and lows,” said Gibb, who had already chalked up three aces during her career.

"On my card I had a nine, two eights, sixes, fives, fours, threes, twos and three ones. It was a very strange day!”

Littlestone To Host Junior Open In 2020

LITTLESTONE GOLF CLUB in Kent has been chosen to host the Junior Open in 2020.

The R&A-organised event, which was first launched in 1994, takes place every two years, and is open to boys and girls aged under 16 who are entered by their prospective national federations.

The Junior Open is traditionally held during the week of the Open Championship, which is taking place at Royal St Geroge's in 2020.

Littlestone has staged numerous topflight tournaments in its 130-year history.

The first Ladies Championship was played there in 1894, and has returned four times since, most recently in 2007. The club also welcomed the British Ladies Amateur in 2005, the Senior Women’s English Amateur in 2010, and the 2011 English Girls Open Amateur.

NEWS | AUTUMN 2018

[19]

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

London Club To Host Golf Foundation Pro-Am

GOLFERS LOOKING to encourage more young players to take up the game are being invited to enter this year’s Golf Foundation Charity Pro-Am, which is being held at London Golf Club on

October 8.

All the money raised on the day will go directly towards Golf Foundation initiatives to encourage more girls to enjoy the game. The Pro-Am is supported by the European Tour Foundation and is a highly popular networking event among golf lovers from the golf industry and world of business.

The day comprises a

Newbury Opens New-Look Swing Studio

NEWBURY & CROOKHAM GOLF Club has swung into the 21st century after revamping its stateof-the-art indoor training facility.

The Hampshire-based club, which is one of the oldest in the country, has installed a simulator provided by ViewSonic Europe, which boasts a combination of high-powered projection and interactive touch-screen displays, to create an immersive indoor training facility for club members

Champagne breakfast before a shotgun start on the Jack Nicklausdesigned Heritage Course, followed by a three-course meal and a charity auction and raffle. It costs £950 to enter a team of three, who will be paired with a tour professional.

To book a team, call 01992 449830 or email fundraising@golffoundation.org.

■ THE HERITAGE COURSE AT LONDON GOLF CLUB

THINK SMALL

to practise their skills all year round under the guidance of the club’s team of resident professionals.

The ViewSonic equipment includes a 4.5-metre screen and a 65-inch interactive touch-screen panel, which is used to assess players’ skills, including analysis of grip, swing speed, angle of impact, and spin rates and trajectory.

Barry Newman, Head Professional at Newbury & Crookham, commented: “Our new indoor all-weather training facility shows our commitment to embracing the latest technology to help our members improve their game.

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What we have here is really unique, and I enjoy the opportunity to use different locations to help add variety to my coaching and instruction.”

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[20] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

All-star cast prepares to tackle Walton Heath at

British Masters European No.1 Tommy Fleetwood will be among the headline acts of a star-studded field, led by tournament host Justin Rose, which is set to take part in this year’s British Masters at Walton Heath Golf Club in Surrey from October 11-14.

F

leetwood, the reigning Race to Dubai champion, will make his return to the British Masters after missing last year’s event due to the birth of his first child.

The 27-year-old from Southport, currently ranked 12th in the world, is enjoying another impressive season, although he will have his work cut out to retain his Race to Dubai title following the exploits of Open champion Francesco Molinari in recent months.

Fleetwood, who defended his Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship crown in January, and was runner-up to Brooks Koepka in the US Open at Shinnecock Hills, will be teeing it up at Walton Heath alongside fellow Englishman and new world No.1 Justin Rose, who is following in the footsteps of Ian Poulter, Luke Donald and Lee Westwood as tournament host of the British Masters.

The tournament is taking place just two weeks after the Ryder Cup in Paris, when

■ TOMMY FLEETWOOD

Fleetwood and Rose will be part of Thomas Bjørn’s 12-man European team which will seek to reclaim the trophy after America’s success at Hazeltine two years ago.

“I’m really excited to return to the British Masters,” Fleetwood said. “Obviously I couldn’t play last year, as my son Frankie was being born, so I’m looking forward to

joining Justin as he hosts this year’s event.

I’ve enjoyed playing in this event previously, and have done pretty well in it. Walton Heath is a wonderful course, and I think it will be a great venue for the British Masters.”

He added: “I’ve got to know Justin pretty well in recent years and he is a great guy, so obviously I wanted to support him as tournament host too. He has been an incredible ambassador for British golf, as a US Open champion and an Olympic champion, so I’m sure we will have a great field and put on a great show for the fans.”

Rose, who took over the world no.1 spot earlier this month, is delighted with the

turnout from Europe’s elite for a tournament in which he has invested a lot of time.

“I am delighted to announce that Tommy has agreed to play in the British Masters,” said Rose. “He has established himself as one of the world’s best golfers, and to have the reigning Race to Dubai winner in the field is great for the British fans. Tommy is always a popular figure wherever he goes, but particularly on home soil, and I’m excited he will be playing at Walton Heath in October. We’re going to have a great field, and it is a brilliant golf course for the British Masters. I was there again at the end of June, and preparations are going well, so

OBVIOUSLY I COULDN’T PLAY LAST YEAR AS FRANKIE WAS BEING BORN, SO I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO JOINING JUSTIN AS HE HOSTS THIS YEAR’S EVENT. WALTON HEATH IS A WONDERFUL COURSE AND I THINK IT WILL BE A GREAT VENUE FOR THE BRITISH MASTERS I’m really looking forward to it.”

Tickets for the British Masters cost £110 for a season ticket, £68 for a weekend ticket, £43 for weekend day ticket, and £23 for Thursday’s first round and £33 on Friday for the second round. There is also a pro-am on Wednesday (£20), where a range of stars from the world of sport and entertainment will be teeing it up alongside a selection of tour players.

■ JUSTIN ROSE WILL BE HOSTING THE BRITISH MASTERS AT WALTON HEATH

Rose

THE HERO CHALLENGE will visit another iconic venue To Headline Hero this October when the Challenge At European Tour’s night Canary Wharf golf contest heads to London’s Canary Wharf.

World No.1 Justin Rose will headline the event, as some of the world’s leading golfers tee it up at the bustling financial centre for the European Tour’s innovative one-hole shootout, which takes place on Tuesday, October 9, during the week of the Sky Sports British Masters, which Rose will host at Walton Heath Golf Club in Surrey.

Players will be hitting from a floating tee into a specially constructed floating green in the shadow of some of London’s tallest

For tickets, visit www.europeantour.com.

buildings.

Hero Challenge, Rose said: “I think following on from it’s a great idea to bring Edinburgh Castle. golf into the heart of Since we launched London, and Canary the Hero Challenge Wharf will be a pretty at the British Masters spectacular backdrop two years ago, it has for the Hero Challenge. grown into a hugely It’s always fun to popular event which do something a bit has captured the different and reach new imagination of both audiences. our fans and our “The reaction to players. By taking previous editions of the event to the heart ■ A FLOATING GREEN WILL BE IN ACTION AT CANARY WHARF FOR THE HERO CHALLENGE the Hero Challenge has of London, we are been very positive, and givingeven more I’m really looking forward to taking part executive, said: “Canary Wharf is an people the opportunity to see the skill and myself during the British Masters week.” iconic London landmark, and it will be character of some of the world’s leading Keith Pelley, European Tour chief another spectacular backdrop for the golfers.”

[22] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS

Stoke Park Joins Forces With Leadbetter

■ DAVID LEADBETTER AT STOKE PARK

Trower Takes Over American Golf Holiday Pro-Am Tour

■ CRAIG TROWER

PGA PROFESSIONAL CRAIG TROWER and some golf enthusiast backers have acquired specialist golf tour operator, The American Golf Holiday.

Trower’s professional background includes a ten-year spell at The Wisley in Surrey, where he organised many of the members’ international and domestic events before overseeing the membership fulltime.

The American Golf Holiday has been a market leader in long-haul PGA Official Pro-Ams for almost a quarter of a century, with its popular Pro-Am Tour events attracting discerning golfers from all over

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

LEGENDARY GOLF COACH DAVID LEADBETTER has opened his new European academy headquarters at Stoke Park Country Club & Spa in Buckinghamshire.

Leadbetter, who has coached players to 22 major championships and more than 100 individual worldwide tournament victories, has more than 30 academies across the world, with Stoke Park the 13th to open in Europe.

Many of the world's top golf coaches have gone through the Leadbetter Golf Academy certification, and Stoke Park's team of PGA professionals has been undergoing the training programme in recent months.

■ CAPTION West Sussex-born Leadbetter said: "We're really excited to open our new academy at Stoke Park. Stoke Park is one of the world's premier golf facilities, with an amazing hotel, a 27-hole golf course and a great practice facility.”

the world.

This November, the Pro-Am Tour celebrates its 25th anniversary with the staging of the California Classic Pro-Am in Palm Springs. This is in addition to its other regular events, such as the Scottsdale Classic, which follows the PGA Tour at TPC Scottsdale, and the Sawgrass Classic Pro-Am, which takes place immediately after the Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass.

Events are also being held at Pinehurst next year, with options to stay to watch the Masters, and at Pebble Beach, just two weeks before the legendary California venue stages the 2019 US Open.

John and Alison Hooper, who started the American Golf Holiday back in 1994, have built up an unrivalled reputation for high quality tournament golf holidays, delivering

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He added: "I want to thank Chester King, Stoke Park’s chief executive, for his vision, and everybody involved for making this happen, as this is going to be our European headquarters. We've had academies in the UK for some time, but to have a facility such as Stoke Park really is a dream come true.

"It's going to be a tremendous facility, and we can't wait to get started, to help the members out and really promote the game of golf in general. I know how much involvement Stoke Park has in developing young players and we look forward to being part of that as well."

Chris Murtagh, Stoke Park's head of instruction, leads the facility, and his team of teaching professionals have been trained in the Leadbetter philosophy by coaches who have flown in from the USA. Stoke Park's director of golf, Stuart Collier, said: "This is wonderful news for all connected with Stoke Park. David Leadbetter is a legend in golf coaching, and few, if any, can match his track record in golf coaching, or the success his students have achieved. The opening of his academy's European headquarters here at Stoke Park is a further exciting development and will be of great benefit to golf in the south."

■ JOHN AND ALISON HOOPER

competition and camaraderie at some of golf’s finest tournament venues, and all supported by a high level of personal service, creating tremendous customer loyalty over the years.

The Hoopers are passing on their knowledge and experience to Trower through a lengthy crossover period to ensure a smooth transition, and customers can expect service of the highest quality to be maintained now

and in the future.

Trower said: “I had always greatly admired the business John and Alison created, witnessing it first hand as a regular customer myself for many years. It is a dream come true to get involved with such a well-established and reputable company, and I am committed to customer satisfaction and driving the business forward.

Over the next season, with Alison and John’s support, I am looking forward to meeting all our customers during the events, as well as reaching out to new golfers. I am particularly keen to get more of my fellow PGA professionals involved with their supporting amateurs, as there really is no better Pro-Am experience!”

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[24] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Wilsons

Crowned Ping Family Champions

GOLF MAD TEN-YEAR-OLD Lizzie Wilson and her dad, Craig, are the new Ping Family Fourball Betterball champions.

The Nottinghamshire pair teamed up to score 45 points over the Thonock Park course at Ping’s Gainsborough Golf Club and take the title, which is run by England Golf, by a single point.

The runners-up were Madeleine

and Ian Smith from Sherwood Forest, who scored 44 points, pipping Linda and Peter Spencer of Worksop on countback.

“I played best!” laughed Lizzie, who has cut her handicap by 11 shots this season and now plays off 24. “I’ve had great fun playing with my dad, and our playing partners were very nice. I’ve made some new friends and it’s been a great experience.”

Last year Craig and his wife, Claire, took part for the first time, and this year they decided to include Lizzie, who has been playing since she was eight. “My wife and I played last year and it was a fantastically organised day.

This year we thought that Lizzie could play and I got lucky she was paired with me! It’s been a great day,” said Craig, who plays off 13.

Lizzie, who has already won a U18 handicap competition in her home county, has been encouraged by the junior development programme at Norwood Park, and was inspired by attending the Women’s British Open; and enthused by receiving a bag of junior clubs through the Bags4Birdies initiative run by Ping and UPS. Under teh scheme, every birdie scored in the majors in one year by Lee Westwood and Louis Oosthuizen saw a bag of clubs given to a new young player.

■ LIZZIE AND CRAIG WILSON

Thorpe Hall’s ‘Hattie's Heroes Day’ Raises £50K For Charity

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A CHARITY GOLF DAY held at Thorpe Hall Golf Club in Essex has raised over £50,000 for a range of national and local causes.

The Hattie’s Heroes Charity Day, which is now in its fourth year, was the idea of European Tour player Matt Southgate, whose niece, Hattie, was treated for an extensive period at Great Ormond Street Hospital after being diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia when aged just two.

Southgate, who is a member at Thorpe Hall, joined forces with fellow professional golfers Richard McEvoy, John Fryatt and John Andrews and set up the charity golf day. The event has raised £150,000 to date, with the beneficiaries including local charities HARP and Haven’s Hospice, as well as Great Ormond Street and the Elizabeth Foundation.

McEvoy, who has also been a member at Thorpe Hall since his junior days, was delighted with the sums raised and the support from the club and its members. He said: “It was the fourth year that we have held the event, and it has raised roughly £50,000 each time.

"We try to make it better each year, and this time we had 27 teams take part in the competition. It helped that the weather was nice, and everyone had a great day.

There was an all-day auction, and we raised money for numerous charities, including the Elizabeth Foundation, which is close to my heart.”

He added: “Matt, the two Johns, and I run the day, and it is really enjoyable, and fantastic to be a part of, but we couldn’t do any of this without the support of the club and its members, as well as everyone who continues to contribute very generously towards the auction.”

Despite the high-powered field of tour pros in attendance, the winning score of 98 was recorded by Team Khandia, whose handicaps were 20, 16, 10 and scratch.

They finished 11 points ahead of Team Barthaud, who came second on countback ahead of Team Bonora. As well as a handsome trophy, the winning team were awarded a cheque for £5,000 to be donated to a charity of their choice. In the evening, guests enjoyed a three-course dinner, charity auction and musical entertainment.

NEWS | AUTUMN 2018 [25] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Epsom’s Flexible Approach Reaps Results

EPSOM GOLF Club has enjoyed a welcome upturn in its membership in 2018, following the success of two new categories of membership.

Earlier this season, the 130-year-old Surrey venue introduced a

flexible, credit-based membership, which offered golfers full access to the course and club competitions for under £400 a year. At the same time, the club also launched a Buddy membership, which offered a 50 per cent discount on the first year’s subscriptions for two people joining at the same time. This reduced the first year’s fees to just £687.50 each, while even bigger savings are

Davies Looks To Raise The Bar At St Mellion

ST MELLION has a new man in charge following the appointment of experienced hospitality executive Ian Davies as general manager at the popular Cornwall-based resort.

A keen golfer, Mansfield-born Davies has been a regular visitor to St Mellion during his 25 years living in nearby Torbay, and he is delighted at being given the opportunity to manage one of the most well known golf resorts in the UK. “I can’t claim to be the greatest golfer, but St Mellion has always excited me whenever I have visited it,” said Davies, who previous roles include managing the launch of several hotels, including a golf and spa resort in the Midlands. “Luckily for me the Nicklaus and the Kernow courses both play fantastically well, whatever your level of ability, but I realise that we have to match their quality with an equally international-class experience off the golf course.”

He added: “We have an award-winning 80-bedroom AA four-star hotel, with a wonderful collection of bars, restaurants and leisure facilities, and a great team already in place, so we already have a brilliant set of tools to work with.

“Although our national reputation is wellestablished, I would say we need to work even harder to make St Mellion an essential part of life in the Plymouth area, and the wider south west region. We play a big role in the local community, and each year we host many events organised by local people, but we can always do more.”

The resort celebrates its tenth anniversary next year, and Davies is looking forward to taking it into its second decade.

“When you have a product this good, the only thing to do is to keep pushing everupwards in all areas,” he said. “I want our guests to demand more, and to expect more, each time they come here. Out staff must match our guests’ love for St Mellion with a passion of their own.”

on offer for those aged under 35.

Both schemes have been exceptionally well recieved, with the club’s management reporting over 105 new members joining the club since the beginning of the year, 40 per cent of which are on the flexible scheme.

For more details on all the membership categories at Epsom, email stuartwalker@ epsomgolfclub.co.uk.

[26] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Royal Mid-Surrey

InBrief

Opens Waiting List

CAINS CAPTURES SAFFRON WALDEN PRO-AM ★ Swaffham pro Nicholas Cains won Saffron Walden Golf Club’s annual charity pro-am, after shooting a six-under-par 66 at the Cambridgeshire venue. The tournament attracted a full field of 47 pros and 141 amateurs, with Cains improving on his runnerup spot in last year’s event to take the title by two shot from Jason Levermore (Little Channels) and Chris Cutchie (Colchester).

The team prize went to Pellys Solicitors’ team of Andrew Devereux, Paul Penney, Chris Reynolds and Hendon pro Ian Clark, with a score of 19 under par.

Generous support from 21 local sponsors helped raise in excess of £9,000 for various local causes, including the club captains’ nominated charity, The Arthur Rank Hospice.

FOSTER FLIES IN AT SENIOR AMATEUR ★ Accrington’s Trevor Foster won the Seniors Amateur Championship by nine shots after finishing on eight under par at Royal Porthcawl in Wales.

Foster was the only player to be under par for 54 holes, with his opening 63 setting the standard for the week. Americans Randy Haig and Gene Elliott filled the second and third places, with former champions Ian Attoe and Richard Latham sharing fourth with three other players.

■ PLANS FOR FOXHILL'S NEW SHORT GAME AREA HAVE BEEN DRAWN UP BY EDWARDS DESIGN INTERNATIONAL

Practice Makes Perfect At

F

oxhills' ambitions to create the best practice facilities in Surrey have taken a giant leap forward as work has started on a state-of-the-art new short game area.

The Ottershaw-based resort already places huge emphasis on its coaching, with a covered, floodlit driving range and putting greens. But the new facility is no minor undertaking, at 3,500 square metres with two practice bunkers, synthetic hitting areas and a 650 square metre green at a cost stretching well into six figures.

The new short game practice facility is expected to be open for use in early 2019, and will also be floodlit to allow for evening practice and tuition to allow for some major improvements among the membership and visitors, with chipping, pitching and bunker play now given an opportunity to flourish.

With the plans developed with the help of golf club architects Edwards Design International, work has now begun on clearing the site adjacent to the driving range as the plans become a reality.

And director of golf, Chris Fitt, believes the new facility will be the envy of clubs around the county.

Fitt said: "We wanted to elevate our practice facilities to another level and this is a vital component of that. We firmly believe this will make Foxhills the best practice facility in the county and will be really special when it's completed. It's been a long process to get to this point, but should now take around seven months from start to finish, and will be a stand-out feature when it's done."

Foxhills

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For more information, please call 01923 773146 or email enquiries@moorparkgc.co.uk

ROYAL MID-SURREY GOLF CLUB in Richmond has a waiting list of golfers under the age of 30 wishing to join as associate members for the first time in the club’s long history, having reached its capacity of 120.

Associate members aged 19-29 receive a discount off the price of the full adult membership, but still enjoy full playing rights on the club’s two 18-hole courses.

“There has been a very encouraging increase in our associate membership in the past nine months, with 43 new golfers joining the club,” said club chairman Chris Holt. “Of the total 120 that we set as a limit for associate members, 28 are Category 1 handicap players."

He added: "We are delighted to have so many accomplished golfers wanting to

■ ROYAL MID-SURREY IS ENJOYING A MEMBERSHIP BOOM

join Royal Mid-Surrey. The investment we made in celebrating our 125th anniversary clearly made a favourable impression on many people visiting the club.”

The club has recently refurbished its practice area and driving range, while the pro shop also benefitted from an extensive refit.

Royal Mid-Surrey has an overall membership of 1,300, including more than 360 lady members – one of the largest ladies’ sections in the country.

NEWS | AUTUMN 2018

[27]

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Golding

Strikes At PGA Seniors Championship

PHIL GOLDING equalled the course record over the London Golf Club’s International course en route to winning the Staysure PGA Seniors Championship.

The 56-year-old from Hertforshire’s stunning final round 63 at the

■ PHIL GOLDING

Kent venue saw him come from six shots behind to take the title by two shots from Sweden’s Magnus Atlevi and claim the € 67,446 first prize.

Golding, who won the Travis Perkins Masters and the Swiss Senior Open last season, finished on 18 under par for the week, following earlier rounds of 72, 67 and 68.

Golding began the final day five groups ahead of the overnight leaders Santiago Luna and Greg Turner, but started his surge up the leaderboard with

four birdies in his first five holes. Even with a dropped shot on the 16th Golding remained in control, and gave himself the chance for victory as he birdied the last after his 20-foot eagle putt failed to drop for a new course-record.

With the following groups unable to reach the 18 under par target, Golding was crowned champion, and added his name to the illustrious list of past PGA Senior's winners.

Golding, who is attached to Sandy Lodge Golf Club in Hertfordshire, said: “I

InBrief

never thought I’d win when I teed off this morning, as I was six shots behind. The only time I looked at the leaderboard was on 16, after I made a mistake there. I made a good par on 17, and then a nice birdie on the last.”

He added: "It’s an honour to win the Staysure PGA Seniors Championship. It’s the 60th anniversary of this event, so I’m privileged to be associated with the PGA Seniors title and its past champions.”

Turn to page 28 for our exclusive interview with Phil Golding.

KUPCHO WINS MCCORMACK MEDAL ★ America’s Jennifer Kupcho

has been awarded the Mark H McCormack Medal as the leading player in the women’s 2018 world amateur golf ranking.

The 21-year-old from Colorado, who won the NCAA Division I individual championship, played in the winning Curtis Cup team, and finished 16th in the LPGA Tour’s Marathon Classic, will be awarded exemptions to the 2019 US Women’s Open and Women’s British Open.

Rosberg Powers To American Golf Long Drive Glory

AMERICAN GOLF AND CALLAWAY welcomed Europe’s strongest Long Drive field to Chester Racecourse on August 2 to do battle at the 2018 American Golf UK Long Drive Championships.

From a field comprising Europe’s elite long drivers, new long drive stars in the making and returning American Golf championship favourites, Sweden’s Emil Rosberg (Under 45), came out on top in the main men’s category.

With 2017 champion Dan Konyk going out in the seeding rounds, the competition threw up surprises from the start and, with competitors hitting into a strong headwind, consistency was hard to find. But one ball in play was all that was needed to progress, a feat matched by runner up James Tait, as he sent a monster drive into a strong headwind to top the seeding with 369 yards.

Rosberg then found his form, sailing through

the quarter and semi-finals with 2-0 victories, including the longest ball of the day at 388 yards. That set up a final with 2017 finalist Tait, who had hit a similar vein of form, progressing with 2-0 wins and a longest drive of 384 yards.

The final lived up to expectations, with Tait taking the first set and Rosberg responding to take the second. That lined up a sudden-death final set, which Rosberg took 370 to 354.

Along with the American Golf UK title, Rosberg won qualification for the World Championships, which take place in ■ EMIL ROSBERG, WILLIAM HUNT TYRELL AND ILONA STUBLEY Oklahoma later this month. set 296-283, and the second set 300-292.

The ladies’ title was hotly contested, with past The Over-45 category was won by Ireland’s champions Rebecca McGinley and Ilona Stubley William Hunt Tyrell, who beat Gavin Beddow 2-1 being pushed hard by youngsters Olivia Rael in the final, with a 354-yard effort in the opening Brook and Abbi Gallagher-Rowlands. The four set being his longest drive. After picking up the lined up in the semi-finals, with Stubley hitting title, Hunt Tyrell said: “After last year’s finals I’ve 290 yards to beat 16-year-old Gallagher-Rowlands, focused on training hard five days a week. I took and McGinley matching that distance to take it seriously, got some help from Long Drive coach down Rael Brook. The final was a tense affair, with Lee Cox and left no stone unturned.”

Stubley edging out her rival after taking the first

BELTON PAIR WIN TRUST FINALS ★ Lincolnshire golfers Sheila

Mason and Jackie Scott from Belton Park Golf Club romped to victory in the England Golf Trust National Pairs, scoring an impressive 47 points in the betterball final. They finished three points ahead of their closest challengers from Janet Davies and Elizabeth Campbell of Bramley, Surrey. The competition was designed to raise funds for the Trust, which provides grants and bursaries for young men and women in education or aged up to 21. The tournament attracted entries from 140 clubs and received donations of over £5,000.

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[28] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

PURE

GOLD Golf News catches up with Hertfordshire tour professional Phil Golding, who is enjoying a second wind to his career on the revitalised Staysure Tour

Y

ou’ve won five times on the Senior Tour now, most recently at last month’s Staysure PGA Senior Championship at the London Club.

Was that the most satisfying win of your senior career, shooting 63 on Sunday to beat a strong field?

It was certainly the biggest win of my senior career in terms of prize money, but also in terms of the status of the tournament. The PGA Senior Championship has just retuned to the Staysure Tour’s schedule, and is one of the most important events of the season, so it was a real honour to win it following its revival.

As far as the final round went, I didn’t think I had much of a chance of winning when I set out, as I was six shots behind the leader, Santiago Luna, but I birdied the first two holes, and was then five under after seven, so by the turn I knew I was in with a shout. From then on, the only time I looked at the leaderboard was on 16, after I made a mistake there. I made a good par on 17, and then a nice two-putt for birdie on the last, but it wasn’t until 45 minutes later that I knew I was the champion.

It’s not been a great season for me by any means, but getting a win always does wonders for your confidence, so hopefully I can take that forward with me for the remainder of the season.

WHAT’S IN PHIL'S BAG? Driver: TaylorMade M2 Fairways: TaylorMade Aero Burner (15) Hybrids: Honma TW717 (19, 22) Irons: Honma TWU World Forged (3,4), Honma TW 727V (5-10) Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM7 (54, 58) Putter: Evnroll ER2

Do you feel like you have the type of game that will keep you competitive over the next few years?

I’ve been lucky enough to be injury-free for pretty much my whole career, and I try and take care of myself physically. I go to the gym a couple of times a week, and work on cardio fitness and strength conditioning. We older guys can lose a lot of muscle mass quite quickly, so it’s important to keep in shape if we want to compete with the younger guys coming through.

How did you cope with the gap between leaving the main tour and joining the seniors?

I just love competing, so I made sure I stayed match fit by playing in every pro-am and every competition I could, and tried to keep my edge.

I always made sure I had a card in my hand, and never played just for fun. I turned 56 this year, but I still enjoy the heat of competition just as I did when I was a youngster. It never leaves you.

Do you have a coach, or are you self-taught now?

I do have a coach – his name is Lawrence Farmer and he’s based down at Long Ashton Golf Club in Bristol. I see him every few months, and we work through a few things. Whenever I see him, I come back feeling re-energised about my game, and it’s always good to have another pair of eyes to look at your swing. I’m not a particularly technical kind of player, but there is always something that can be improved upon.

You’ve been playing with Honma equipment for a few seasons now. How did that come about and what do the clubs bring to your game?

Yes, I’ve had Honma irons and hybrids in the bag for a while now, and really love them. After leaving the main tour, equipment sponsors dry up pretty quickly for most senior players, which, while not great, also frees you up to play with any clubs you like. I hadn’t heard much about Honma before, but as soon as picked them up I really loved the whole look, feel, and the performance.

They’re premium quality, forged clubs. They are used by a lot of tour players in Asia, but they’re gradually getting known over here. I’m certainly one of the only guys on the Staysure Tour using them, but they work for me and I will be carrying on using them. I’ve got a new set waiting for me at Core Golf in Thame, as my current set is getting a bit battered, so I’m just waiting for a break in the tournament schedule to go down there are get properly fitted.

You’re attached to Sandy Lodge Golf Club. How often do you get to play there?

Yeah, I’ve been at Sandy Lodge for a while now, and tend to do a lot of my practise there in the evenings. I was a member for a long time, but it’s only recently that it has been a more formal attachment. I love the course, and they’ve just invested in some new practise facilities, with a new short game area, with a chipping green and a practise bunker, which is great for the members, and for me. It’s a really thriving club and it’s great to be a part of.

You won the French Open at Le Golf National in Paris back in 2003, and you’ve had good finishes there on the senior tour. What is it about the course that brings out the best in you, and how do you think it will stand up as a Ryder Cup venue?

I think everyone knows that it’s going to be a brilliant Ryder Cup venue. The closing stretch is pure drama, while the risk-and-reward options, the water, and the general layout, is perfect for all formats of tournament golf, especially the Ryder Cup. I hope that a lot of the matches go the distance, as the 18th is a superb closing hole.

When I won the French Open it was a par five, so

while it wasn’t easy, especially if you decided to go for it in two, it wasn’t the tough par four that it is today. I’m not sure why I performed so well that week. As with most winners on tour, I think I had one of those hot weeks with the putter.

Do you think the StaySure Tour gives over-50s a good shot at making a decent living?

I think we’re up to 19 events now, which is a really big improvement on where we were a few years ago, when we started in May and finished in December, and had large gaps in the schedule.

Staysure’s headline sponsorship has been a real shot in the arm for the tour, and it’s really good to see more tournaments and more venues coming on board. The new event in Sharjah really gets the season off to a good start in March now, and there is new mixed tournament taking place in Jordan next season, so we’re getting a kind of Middle East swing going. There is also now a really good run of events in the summer, so much so that some players are now taking a few tournament weeks off to recover!

While you’ve enjoyed plenty of success in Europe, you’ve not had much joy in the senior majors over the last five years. Why do think that is?

Yes, it’s been very frustrating not to have put myself into contention in the big ones. I had a decent run at the US Open this year, where I finished inside the top 30, but other than that it’s been tough going. Obviously the competition is a lot tougher, as are the courses, but I’ve gotten off to slow starts a few times, and then be chasing cuts, and before you know it you’re on the plane home.

If the 56-year-old Phil Golding was able to pass on one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

I’d probably tell myself to have more self-belief.

Anyone who goes on tour is a good golfer, but not everyone can cope with the mental side of competing. Golf at the elite level is played 90% between the ears, so I would have told myself to focus more on the mental side of the game.

COMPETITION | AUTUMN 2018

[31]

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN THREE OF CLEVELAND GOLF'S NEW RTX-4 WEDGES! Cleveland Golf is offering one lucky Golf News reader the chance to win a set of its stunning RTX-4 wedges.

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CLEVELAND RTX-4 WEDGES: THE NEW FACE OF SPIN Cleveland’s new RTX-4 wedges feature the fourth generation of the brand’s Rotex Face technology, which is designed to impart maximum spin and control on the golf ball from any lie, thanks to directionally-optimised laser milling, and more aggressive Tour Zip grooves. The latest models are built to tighter tolerances to help provide ultimate short game control.

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TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, please answer the following question and email your answer, together with your name, address and contact telephone number, to: info@golfnews.co.uk, with ‘Cleveland Wedge Competition’ in the subject line.

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How many different sole grinds are the new RTX-4 wedges offered in?

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[32] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Hammond

InBrief

Spain, courtesy of Golf Escapes.

The Social Golfer has always been a big advocate in supporting disability golf, and this year the members raised over £1,200 for British Inclusive Golf.

This money will go towards helping young kids with autism and other mental and physical disabilities through

Claims Social Golfer’s Halliwell Cup

RICE COOKS UP A STORM AT EAST SUSSEX ★ Irishman Tim Rice carded a final round 66 to clinch the PGA EuroPro Tour’s FORE Business Championship held at East Sussex National Golf Resort & Spa. Rice, from Limerick, started the final day five shots behind leader Matt Cort, and was still four shots behind him at the turn, despite an outward 34. However, four birdies on the back nine, including a superb 12-foot putt from the fringe on the last, gave Rice the clubhouse lead on 11-under par.

Cort’s back nine was a completely different story, with three bogeys over his final four holes dropping him into a share of fourth.

BURHILL WIN SURREY FOURSOMES TITLE ★ Burhill Golf Club won the Surrey Club Foursomes Championship after Richard Barnes and Alex Tonge combined to shoot rounds of 70 and 74 at Farnham. The pair’s level-par 144 total saw them finish two shots clear of Walton Heath’s Jack Finch and Bailey Osborne. Sean Mullan and Harry Uzzell from Wentworth were two shots further back in third.

MEMBERS OF ONLINE GOLF COMMUNITY The Social Golfer gathered at North Downs Golf Club on July 29th to take part in the eighth renewal of The Social Golfer. Sponsored by Golf News and Golf Escapes, the tournament saw 64 members travel from all over the UK, and even from as far afield as Africa, to battle it out for the community's top golfing honours in 2018.

After weeks of blazing sunshine and high temperatures, the golfing gods decided that July 29 would result in a temporary suspension of summer, so competitors had to battle heavy downpours, 30mph winds, limited visibility, as well as fast-running conditions.

This year’s men’s winner, and the new holder of the Halliwell Trophy, was Peter Hammond from Hampshire. He carded an impressive 37 points, but only took the title after a countback against Roger Hurcombe. Third place went to Speedy Miller with 34 points.

The women’s trophy was an equally tight affair, with Anna Guss (West London & Poland) winning

Ingram Homes In On Sussex PGA Title

■ SOCIAL GOLFER OPEN WINNERS PETER HAMMOND AND ANNA GUSS

with 29 points on countback from Judy Lilley, who won the straightest drive competition as something of a consolation prize.

The Golf News Guest Trophy was won by Jay Penfold from British Inclusive Golf, while the Yellow Ball team event was won by tournament organiser Ian Halliwell, and his team of Roger Hurcombe, Gary Wilson and Mark Reeves.

This year’s event also included an indoor nearest-the-pin competition on North Downs’ golf simulator, with the winner, Tony Moss, receiving a two-night break at the Isla Canela Golf Hotel in

ROYAL ASHDOWN FOREST PGA PROFESSIONAL Jonny Ingram made best use of his local knowledge to win the PGA in Sussex

BRUNTS WINS HERTS U14 TITLE ★ Oliver Brunt won Hertfordshire Golf’s U14s title after shooting a gross 72 at Harpeden Common.

The three-handicapper from Gog Magog finished one shot ahead of Kiertan Sanga (Letchworth) and Freddie Symonds (West Herts).

Championship by five shots at his home club.

Ingram’s chances of victory looked slim when he ended the first round fully five shots behind Piltdown pro Jason Partridge, who fired a 63 on Royal Ashdown’s West Course, but a second round 67 on the tougher Old Course saw the home favourite surge to the top of the leaderboard as others struggled.

Jonathan Elliott

the game of golf.

Ian Mullins, Event Director of The Social Golfer Open, said “Being a golf day organiser can have its trials and tribulations, but every year the atmosphere at our events just gets better and better. A big thanks to everyone at Golf News, Golf Escapes and Golf Deals Group for putting up over £1,000 worth of prizes. We hope to grow the event even further in the next 12 months in the hope we can broaden the appeal of the day beyond just our members and guests, and include more golfers from all over the world!”

(Burgess Hill), Tim Spence (The Golf College), and Paul Nessling (Cooden Beach) finished tied for second, while Partridge could only manage fifth after a second round 78.

Ingram said: “Local knowledge round here is an asset of course, but I was five behind after the first round on the West. Up to this event I’ve often scored well but finished badly, so this time I went for the lot. I

think I’ve finally learned how to win.”

He added: “The course was in spectacular condition, but the greens were drying out in the afternoon, with the temperatures hitting 30 degrees, so 36 holes felt more like a marathon. I putted well, with just 27 putts in the afternoon, and played the par fives and threes well. They make your score on the Old course, and that’s how I made my 67.”

Waterlooville GOLF CLUB

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The friendliness of the welcome, the presentation of the course and the quality of the greens were all outstanding.” – ANDRA, GLOUCESTERSHIRE TEAM CAPTAIN

Waterlooville Golf Club has continued to receive similar feedback all year and was very proud to host the English Women’s County Finals in September 2016.

We would be delighted towelcome your golf societyto Waterlooville Golf Club in 2018.

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NEWS | AUTUMN 2018

[33]

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Ham Manor

HAM MANOR GOLF CLUB in West Sussex has recently Unveils completed New-Look 18th the total refurbishment of both a new 18th hole and an additional short game coaching and practice area.

The new coaching facility boasts a large remodelled putting green and a short game zone with a target green and bunker. These are in addition to the club’s two existing practice grounds and a simulator system, making Ham Manor an unrivalled centre for professional coaching and practice.

The club’s multi-million pound investment plan also resulted in the new par-four 18th hole on the Harry Coltdesigned layout being enhanced by a lake alongside the back of the green, all in full view of the 18th-century Grade 11 listed clubhouse.

PGA Head Professional Jon Nicholas has been involved from start to finish and is delighted with the results, which will be officially unveiled on September 23.

He commented: “Ham Manor now has not only a fantastic finishing hole, but a seriously impressive short game coaching facility as well. Designed to encourage any short game shot you can play or imagine, we can now offer an unmatched for any golfer to improve this critical aspect of their game.”

■ THE NEW-LOOK 18TH HOLE AT HAM MANOR

InBrief

■ ANTONHY TARCHETTI

AAHOLM’S AT IT AGAIN ★ Jacob Aaholm (Reigate Hill) won the Surrey Mid-Age Championship after firing rounds of 74 and 68 at West Surrey.

The reigning Surrey Amateur champion’s level-par total saw him finish two shots ahead of Duncan Hodgson. Aaholm also combined with fellow Reigate player Ben Palmer, who finished fourth, to win the team event.

CROCKETT COLLECTS SURREY U18S TITLE

Tarchetti P

GA in Kent captain and Director of Golf at Prince’s, Anthony Tarchetti, and his amateur partner Mark Spratt, came out on top in the PGA Plays Captain’s Innings At Prince’s Prince’s 27.

A total of 38 teams played 27 holes in three different stroke play formats over the three nines at the Kent club, with the PGA Pro and amateur playing foursomes on the Shore course, greensomes on the Dunes, and a fourball betterball over the Himalayas.

After the opening foursomes nine, Canterbury’s Richard Wallis and amateur Gavin Feaver; Lee-on-the-Solent’s James Ablett and partner Neil Shepperd; and Purley Downs’s Kevin O’Connell playing with Peter Carron were tied for the lead on 36 strokes. Three behind with a lot to do were the team of Tarchetti and Spratt.

Suitably inspired, they shot an impressive 32 playing greensomes over the Dunes nine to win the second round by one stroke from Weald of Kent’s Jacques Gous and his partner Simon Head. Better still, they were now tied with O’Connell and Carron, and two ahead of both the teams of Wallis and Feaver, and Ablett and Shepperd.

Going into the final nine, while the Pro-Am Tour’s Craig Trower and partner Matt Tomkins won this round with a superb six-under-par 30, Tarchetti and Spratt shot a four-under-par 32 to claim the PGA Prince’s 27 crown.

A delighted Tarchetti commented: “This event is the perfect way for Prince’s three nines – and especially the recently refurbished Himalaya’s nine – to be celebrated. The foursomes and greensomes formats lend themselves to quicker golf as well, so my thanks and congratulations go to the PGA in England (South) for getting behind what everyone’s agreed was a highly successful event.”

★ Harry Crockett (Addington Palace) won the 2018 Surrey Golf U18 Championship by three shots after shooting rounds of 69 and 68 – the only sub-par rounds of the tournament – at Purley Downs.

Tom Spreadborough (Farnham) and John Richardson (Royal Mid-Surrey) shared second spot after both players shot two rounds of 70.

RATCLIFFE TO CAPTAIN CURTIS CUP TEAM IN 2020 ★ Elaine Ratcliffe has been appointed captain of the GB & Ireland Curtis Cup team for the 2020 matches, and will also lead the teams in the Vagliano Trophy and the Astor Trophy in 2019. Ratcliffe, who originally hails from Cheshire, is a member at Essendon County Club in Hertfordshire. She was part of the winning Curtis Cup GB&I team in 1996, before turning professional in 1999.

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[34] AUTUMN 2018 | INTERVIEW GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

DUNNE DEAL

After bagging his first European Tour victory at last year’s British Masters, Ireland’s Paul Dunne is bidding to push on to the next level

Y

ou’ve been on tour for almost three years now. How do feel you’ve settled into life as a professional?

Yeah, it’s been good. It’s been steady progress, and, of course, it was great to get the win at the British Masters last year. Initially, I had a tough time, being too hard on myself, but then I figured out that that gives you strength, as well. I do think I work hard, but I think everybody works hard out on tour.

I’ve learned a lot about what it takes to be a tour pro, whether it be the amount of practice you put it, fitness, diet, travelling plans and scheduling, all that kind of thing. I’ve definitely put the work in, but it’s dealing with it when it doesn’t quite pay off that is the hardest thing.

You hit the headlines in 2014, when you were leading the Open Championship after 54 holes as an amateur. Did that raise unrealistic expectations either from you or from others?

Yes and no. My expectations definitely changed after the Open. I think before I played at Hoylake I was hopeful that I could make a living out of playing golf, but I wasn't sure. I had had a decent amateur career, but I wouldn't say that I was one of the best amateurs of my generation, by any stretch of the imagination.

There were lots of assumptions made about how I was going to do after that, but the biggest thing that I took away from that was the confidence I got from knowing I could make a living playing golf. And once I knew that, I knew that I could get through qualifying school if I just played my own game. I didn't have any expectations that I was going to win loads of tournaments, which a few people said, but at the end of the day, the only person's expectations I really care about are my own.

■ DUNNE WILL BE DEFENDING HIS BRITISH MASTERS TITLE AT WALTON HEATH

You won your first tournament at the British Masters last September. What was that week like?

Winning the tournament gave me a huge sense of relief, more than anything, and proved to myself that I had it in me to get the job done. I went out on Sunday and really tried to win the tournament, rather than have someone hand it to me. That was the focus. Once I was in front, the plan was to just keep pushing, and see how many birdies I could make – so it was thrilling that I managed to pull it off.

I think I've improved a lot mentally over the last year or so when I’ve found myself in those kinds of pressure situations. Back in 2016, I found myself needing to press forward on Sundays, trying to chase my card, and I struggled with it, but last year my scoring definitely improved on those weekend rounds.

Before that, I felt like I was getting into a lot of

top tens after two rounds, and then ended up finishing 30th or something. And all I was thinking about was making enough money to keep my card. Those tournaments are quite costly. There's a difference in winning at the top; the prize money drops off quite quickly outside the top ten. That was getting in my head a little bit.

And then, at the start of last year, I got into a better mindset on the weekend. I found what made me tick a little bit more. I got myself in the right frame of mind to try and play well, rather than not to play badly, if that makes sense. So I really kind of fed off that.

Do you feel like you’ve stepped up another level of confidence now that you have a win to your name?

Well, not so much. The confidence comes from how you're playing on Thursday, if you know what I mean. But I definitely feel a lot more ready to close the door if I get myself in front, than I was beforehand. But going into the week just depends how you're playing. If I'm not playing well, I'm not very confident. But right now, I am.

PAUL DUNNE FACTFILE AGE: 25 BORN: DUBLIN, IRELAND TURNED PRO: 2015 WORLD RANKING: 87 RACE TO DUBAI RANKING: 42 (16TH, 2017) TOURNAMENTS PLAYED: 72 CUTS MADE: 54 (75%) TOP 10S: 18 (13%) WINS: 2 (2017 BRITISH MASTERS, 2018 GOLFSIXES) CAREER PRIZE MONEY: €2,675,536 BEST MAJOR FINISH: 30TH (OPEN, 2015)

WHAT’S IN THE BAG DRIVER: TITLEIST 917D3 (9.5°) FAIRWAY WOOD: TITLEIST 917F3 (15°) HYBRID: TITLEIST 816H2 IRONS: TITLEIST 716 T-MB (3), TITLEIST 718 CB (4-PW) WEDGES: TITLEIST VOKEY SM6 (52°, 58°)

You paired up with your good friend Gavin Moynihan to win the GolfSixes tournament at Centurion in May. What was that experience like?

It was really a fun event, and it was great to play alongside Gavin again, as we’re good friends from our amateur days. Although there’s lots of noise and music, it’s still a professional golf tournament, and we were playing for money, as well as representing our country, so we were both determined to play well.

Whenever you have the tricolour beside your name, it becomes a little bit more serious, so we were pleased to represent Ireland well, and get a nice trophy under the belt. Apart from the group match against France, I think we were three under par or better in every match through six holes. We just played really solidly all week. Gavin hit some amazing iron shots, and obviously the pivotal moment for us was him chipping in on the play-off against the South Koreans. But I'm not surprised – anybody who played with Gavin through amateur golf knows he chips in at least once a round, so he was due one.

Being one of the younger Irish players on tour, have you had any advice from your more established fellow countrymen?

When I was playing a practice round at the Open in 2014, I remember Graeme McDowell’s caddie offering me some advice on how to calm my nerves in front of big crowds. He said: ‘No matter how you start, the great players always find a way to settle themselves and put

PUTTER: SCOTTY CAMERON GOLO S2 BALL: TITLEIST PRO V1X

a score together, where other people might fall away’.

Staying patient was definitely his message, and I’ve definitely tried to adopt that way of thinking. Then I remember Paul McGinley giving the GB&I team a pep talk ahead of the Walker Cup in 2015. He talked to us in quite a lot of detail about focusing on preparing for events, rather than worrying about outcomes. That has definitely stayed with me.

You’re defending your British Masters title at Walton Heath next month, what are you thoughts on the course and how much are you looking forward to mounting your first defence of a title?

Yeah, I’m really looking forward to it. With Justin [Rose] hosting, we should have a strong field. I’ve played Walton Heath quite a few times, most recently in June at the US Open qualifier, and really like it. I shot one-under over two rounds, so I didn’t quite set the course alight, but I like the way it sets up, and I think it suits my game.

I’m not putting too much pressure on myself as the defending champion, and will try and just treat it like any other week, and hope that I can put four good rounds together. Hopefully, we’ll get some good crowds and, if Europe have managed to win the Ryder Cup, the atmosphere we’ll be even better!

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[36] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

R&A Unveils Championship Venues For 2020

THE R&A HAS ANNOUNCED an updated list of venues for its amateur championships and international matches for 2020.

The list is headed by Royal ■ ASHRIDGE WILL HOST THE AMATEUR Birkdale and West Lancashire, LADIES SENIOR BRITISH OPEN which will stage the Amateur Championship, and Kilmarnock (Barassie), which is to host the Ladies' British Open Amateur Championship for the first time.

The Boys' Amateur Championship goes to Moortown and Alwoodley, while Southport & Ainsdale has been selected as the venue for the Girls' British Open Amateur Championship.

The Curtis Cup will be played for the first time at Conwy, while there are also new venues both for the St Andrews Trophy and the Jacques Leglise Trophy, with Royal Porthcawl staging the former and Blairgowrie the latter.

Other venues include Fulford (Girls' U16 Championship), Littlestone (Junior Open), Royal Cinque Ports (Seniors' Amateur Championship), Killarney (Boys' Home Internationals), Royal St David's (Ladies' and Girls' Home Internationals), Ashridge (Ladies' Senior British Open Amateur) and West Kilbride (Ladies' Senior Home InternationaIs).

Brown Bags Carris Trophy

YORKSHIRE’S Barclay Brown birdied the last two holes at Fulford Golf Club to snatch a one-shot victory in the English U18 Boys’ Open Championship for the Carris Trophy.

Brown, from Hallamshire Golf Club, found the last gasp push to finish on

eight under par and get past the longtime leader, Italy’s Gregorio De Leo. “I’ve been playing well this year, but just hadn’t quite got over the line so it’s nice to do it, especially here in Yorkshire in an England Golf event,” said Brown. “I knew I had a good chance, but I completely lost my game today. I just got up and down all over place and my putter saved me.”

Brown also won the Malcolm Reid

Salver for the best aggregate score in the Carris and Peter McEvoy Trophies, and, to put the icing on the cake, he teamed up with Harrison Arnold (Castle Royle) and Enrique Dimayuga (Walton Heath)

to help England win the Nations Cup. Their eight-underpar team total over 36 holes saw them finish six shots ahead of Italy.

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Shire Owners Commission Dye Designs To Build Two New 18-Hole Courses

G

olfers in the south east of England will have two new 18-hole courses to play within the next five years following a partnership between the owners of The Shire London and one of America’s leading golf architectural companies.

The Dye family, and its company, Dye Designs, is renowned throughout the golfing world for building some the sport’s most iconic courses, including the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass, the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, and Whistling

Straits in Wisconsin. And it will be hoping to sprinkle a touch of stardust on its latest UK projects, with the opening of the West London Links in 2020, and The Dye London in 2023.

Both venues are owned

by Tony Menai-Davis, whose first golf club, The Shire London, opened for play in 2007 and boasts the first Seve Ballesteros-designed course in the UK. The Menai-Davis family added to its golfing portfolio with the opening of the West London Golf Centre in 2012, which offers a nine-hole course, driving range, golf superstore and

adventure golf facility on the outskirts of Northolt.

The project at West London Links will see Dye family member Matt McGarey team up with English golf course construction expert Nigel Ely, former chairman of the British Association of Golf Course Constructors, to build a new 18-hole course at the West London Golf Centre.

Shire London director Ceri Menai-Davis said: “West London Links is a bold, brave design. We are pushing the boundaries of what is

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possible as regards sculpting a golfing landscape, with dramatic shaping which UK golfers have not seen before at an inland links.”

He added: “Golfers will encounter imaginative new green shapes, surrounds and run-offs, and a variety of authentic links hazards, including pot bunkers with revetted faces. We will have fast-running fairways, slick greens, multiple tee positions, classic linksstyle blind shots, plus extensive short game and practice areas. It will be a championship-length course to test elite golfers from the back tees, but it is also designed to be accessible to all levels of golfers.”

The second new course is located near Edgware in north London, where construction starts next month on The Dye London, a Tour-style golf course that is due to open in 2023.

It will be the first UK course designed from scratch by Dye Designs, whose architects, Perry Dye and Cynthia Dye McGarey, will be teaming up on the project. Dye Designs founders Pete and Alice Dye were also involved in the initial plans for The Dye London in 2011 after meeting Menai-Davis at the beginning of the project.

The Dye family is also consulting on further developments at The Shire London, where a new short game area, plus some significant remodeling to the existing course, will be carried out in the near future.

“These two brand new golf courses will offer player-friendly, family golf for all lovers of the sport, and, of course, we are also delighted to be consulting at The Shire London, which is already well-known for its modern, inclusive nature” said Perry Dye. “This sport needs more people like the Menai-Davis family, who are creating original, accessible golf courses in the UK at the moment. We are looking forward to getting started at The Dye London in September, while work on the West London Links and at The Shire London is already well under way.”

Woods & Mickelson Set Date For $10M Showdown

AFTER SEVERAL MONTHS of speculation, the date for a high-stakes 18-hole grudge match between Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson has finally been set.

The two players, currently ranked 26th and 24th in the world respectively, will face off over 18 holes at the ultra-exclusive Shadow Creek Golf Club in Las Vegas, where the winner will walk away with a cool $10m, a portion of which will be donated to charity.

The ‘will-they-won’t-they’ speculation surrounding the match ended in midAugust when both players

Webb Scales Himalayas To Win PGA Kent Open At NewLook Prince’s

went on social media to stoke up the already much-hyped rivalry that is claimed to exist between the two men.

The one-on-one showdown, which is being dubbed simply as ‘The Match’, is scheduled to take place on either

November 23 or 24, which is Thanksgiving weekend in America.

Woods, 42, and Mickelson, 48, are the two most successful players of their generation, and rank first and second on the career money list, with $112m and $87m

MANSTON GOLF CENTRE PGA Trainee Gavin Webb won the PGA Kent Open champion after firing rounds of 70 and 68 at Prince’s Golf Club’s newly redesigned Himalayas-Shore layout.

Webb’s six-underpar total saw him finish one shot clear of Prince’s PGA trainee Jordan Loft, who closed with a 67, and Alexander MacGregor, Billy

respectively. Woods has won 14 major titles and 79 tournaments, while Mickelson has chalked up five majors and 42 tour wins.

Details on the broadcasting rights for the match have yet to be released.

Hemstock and Richard Wallis, to claim the £2,000 first prize.

Webb, who is also a member at Prince’s, said: “Having shot a two-under-par 70 in the first round, I was happy to be just three shots off the lead. I had relatively low expectations for the final round but reached the turn in 35 to be threeunder overall. Despite a two-club breeze, I played really well through the back nine, and I’m delighted to secure my first Order of Merit title.”

Robin Orchison capped a fine day for the Prince’s members by taking the leading amateur prize with a two-round score of 148.

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[38] AUTUMN 2018 | INTERVIEW

LOOKING AHEAD Married with two young children, life has changed considerably for Graeme McDowell over the last five years, but the 39-year-old from Northern Ireland is more motivated than ever to get his game back in shape, with the Open Championship coming to his home town next year, and the US Open returning to Pebble Beach, the scene of his finest hour in 2010

ow is life treating you in 2018?

I can’t complain, but it’s been a frustrating season for me, because I’ve played pretty well, but really haven’t done a good job in putting 72 holes together often enough. I feel like I’ve turned potential toptens into 25ths and 15ths into 30ths.

I know I’m very close. I’ve been coming away from events trying to take the positives, rather than dwelling on the negatives. That’s a very different story from the last couple of seasons, when my game really wasn’t in a good place. I’ve worked really hard this year, and I’m now beginning to see the fruits of my labour come through in my scores, although perhaps not as fast as I’d hoped, which is testing my patience a little bit.

Of course, I can’t ignore the fact that I’m at a different point in my career. It has been a quiet few years, there’s no doubt about it, but there are lots of factors involved. I’ve got married and had a couple of kids, and have just been living my life.

But my motivation has never gone. My big goals are still to get back up into the top 25 in the world again, and be competing in the major championships. And I feel like I'm young enough, healthy enough, and playing well enough to do that.

You finished just outside of the top 125 on the PGA Tour this season. How much extra pressure did that place on your game over the last few months?

Of course, it would have been nice to have had a top-125 category going into next season, but it’s not the end of the world; I’m still going to have a decent schedule to play next year. I feel if I was 25 years old, and without a European Tour card to fall back on, it would be a do-or-die scenario, but that’s not the case, so I’m just focusing on carrying on playing good golf, and hopefully it will get me back to where I want to be.

■ MCDOWELL HAS PLAYED IN THREE RYDER CUPS, BUT WILL BE A VICE-CAPTAIN IN PARIS

It goes without saying that you would have loved to have been on the Ryder Cup team as a player, but what do you think you will be able to bring to the team in your role as a vice-captain in Paris?

When Thomas [Bjørn] told me he wanted me to be a vice-captain, I was worried that it kind of ruled me out as a potential player, but in many ways it kind of lifted a weight off my shoulders, and allowed me to play with a little more freedom, rather than trying to prove to him and others that I still had what it takes to make the team.

It's my first time being involved as part of the backroom team at a Ryder Cup, but I'm glad to have been given the opportunity to help Europe, in whatever way possible, to get the cup back off Team USA. I'm excited to take on a slightly different view of things and

help the 12 players be as ready as they can be to regain the trophy.

THE BACK NINE WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT NINE HOLES OF GOLF I'VE EVER PLAYED IN MY LIFE. I WAS IMAGINING LOSING, I WAS IMAGINING WINNING – IT WAS SUCH A ROLLERCOASTER OF EMOTIONS

You clinched the winning point at the 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor. What are your memories of that week, and of your singles match against Hunter Mahan in particular?

Colin Montgomerie showed a lot of faith in me by putting me out last in the singles match, so I was desperate to repay that by bringing home a point for Europe. Of course, I didn’t know it was going to be the point that sealed the trophy, but as the afternoon wore on, I knew that it was going to be needed. The back nine was the most difficult nine holes of golf I've ever played in my life. I was imagining losing, I was imaging winning – it was such a rollercoaster of emotions.

Playing the final round of the US Open at Pebble Beach just a few month earlier felt like a walk in the park compared to the pressure that I felt over those closing holes at Celtic Manor.

As you said, 2010 was a huge year for you, with the Ryder Cup, and, of course, winning the US Open at Pebble Beach a few months earlier. How did life change for you after that?

My life certainly changed after Pebble, that’s for sure. I became a little more recognisable, but I don’t think it was a massive transformation by any means. I had been on the professional circuit for eight years or so at that stage, and had won a few tournaments, played in a Ryder

INTERVIEW | AUTUMN 2018 [39] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

keep that relationship going and hopefully we’ll enjoy a few more wins together.

I’ve tried out all of the new gear that’s coming out, and I was particularly impressed with the new Cleveland RTX 4 wedges.

They really suit my eye and generate a serious amount of spin.

The Srixon Z Series 785 irons are also very impressive, and I’m sure I’ll make the switch at some point.

You had the misfortune to lose your golf bag in transit ahead of The Open qualifying tournament at St Annes Old Links in June, and chose to pull out of the event rather than play with a replacement set. That says a lot about the trust you put in your own equipment, but why didn’t you consider just playing with a borrowed set?

Some of my equipment is kind of old generation stuff, so they were not easy to replace, and I just wouldn’t have felt 100% comfortable using anything else for a tournament of that importance. I had other chances to qualify for The Open at the Irish and Scottish Opens, so it didn’t feel like a do-or-die situation at the time.

Talking of The Open, how excited are you about the championship returning to the Royal Portrush next year?

For a guy who grew up in Portrush playing golf, I’ve always hoped that The Open would return to the club one day, so it’s a dream come true on every level, and a massive inspiration for me personally. It’s already a complete sell-out for all four days, which is a record for any Open. With a full house, and hopefully some decent weather, it promises to be a magical experience for both the players and the spectators.

On a personal level, I will be working as hard as I can on my game to make sure I can go there and be competitive. To win the Open in my hometown would be beyond incredible, but just to be there will be very special. I’m going to be very proud to showcase where I’m from and to play in front of all the people who have supported me throughout my career would be a dream come true.

I played the course a few weeks ago, and I’m delighted with the changes that have been made to the layout. The place is buzzing.

There is loads of work going on behind the scenes to complete all the infrastructure required to host such a huge event. It’s going to be a massive honour and privilege to have the biggest tournament in the world in my town.

Cup, so it’s not as if I was a new kid on the block.

But yeah, when I went out to restaurants or bars, or was walking through airports, and generally out and about in public, people began to recognise me more. It was a nice problem to have, and reminded me that I must be doing something right! I’ll be a little sad when people stop recognising me, but hopefully that will be a few years yet.

How excited are you that the tournament is returning to Pebble Beach next year. Might lightning strike twice?

It’ll be great to go back as the ‘defending champion’ in terms of Pebble Beach, but that was a long time ago now, so I’m under no illusions how hard it is going to be compete. I’ve got two years left of my ten-year exemption, so it will be great to be competing in a major and hopefully I can do myself justice. Pebble Beach is one of golf’s most iconic venues and I’ll always cherish the memories of that week.

On the equipment front, you’ve been with Cleveland and Srixon for seven years now. How closely do you work with both brands to get your gear dialed in to how you like them?

The guys at Srixon and Cleveland golf are great to work with. I’ve played on and off with their equipment since my early college days, and recently extended my contract with them, so I’m delighted to remain part of the Srixon and Cleveland family for many years to come.

Their team has worked tirelessly with me over the years, ensuring I have everything I need and more, so I’m delighted to

Away from golf and family, you own a couple of restaurants in your adopted US hometown of Orlando in Florida. Is this something you might devote more time to when you eventually hang up the sticks?

Hopefully that’s a few years off yet, but, yeah, it’s been a really fun thing to be involved with. I became interested in the restaurant business a few years ago, through a fantastic place called The Wine Bar, which is in Portrush. It’s a great place, great food, drink, and an amazing atmosphere. I went there to celebrate after I won the US Open.

I liked the place so much that I almost became involved as an investor, but I’m now a part-owner of Nona Blue, which has venues in Orlando and Ponte Vedra, and it’s something I really enjoy being involved with.

The Orlando one is right beside my home at Lake Nona, and I get to spend a lot of time there, having meetings with the guys, bringing family and friends out for food and, of course, just enjoying the whole bar. It’s also the only place to get a decent pint of Guinness in Florida! We have a great team running the restaurant on a day-to-day basis, and we’ve performed very well since we opened in 2013, so I’m looking forward to watching it grow.

G-MAC’S CAREER RECORD AGE: 39 TURNED PRO: 2002 TOUR APPEARANCES: PGA TOUR: 205 EUROPEAN TOUR: 312 PRO WINS: 14 (EUROPEAN 10, PGA 3, ASIAN 1) TOP 10S: 97 PRIZE MONEY: PGA TOUR: $15.9M; EUROPEAN TOUR: €19.6M BEST MAJOR RESULTS: MASTERS: 12TH (2012); US OPEN: 1ST (2010); OPEN: 5TH (2012); US PGA: 10TH (2009) RYDER CUP RECORD: P12 W5 L5 H2

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■ MCDOWELL IS ONE OF THOMAS BJORN'S FIVE VICE-CAPTAINS

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Injured Soldiers Battle Through To Victory At Celtic Manor

A TEAM OF INJURED soldiers from the UK armed forces emerged victorious in a Ryder Cupstyle match against opponents from Australia staged at Celtic Manor.

After two days of close competition in greensomes and fourball formats, a dominant display in the final day singles saw the Battle Back Golf team eventually claim a comprehensive victory against their

opponents from the Soldier On Foundation to retain the Clyde Pearce Trophy.

The visiting golfers from both sides warmed up with a round on the Roman Road Course with Celtic Manor members, before playing the three days of competition over the Twenty Ten and Montgomerie layouts.

Team captain Bernie Broad, who lost both legs below the knee after being injured by

a bomb in Afghanistan in 2009, said: “I’m so proud of the team for being able to raise their game under intense pressure from a very able Australian side.

They dug deep to pull out victory on a very difficult golf course.”

He added: “We’ve enjoyed great camaraderie, as well as great competition, with a fantastic group of people who we have so much in common with, and at a fabulous venue. Golf is such a brilliant game for rehabilitation, and it certainly helped me to turn my life around again after my injuries.”

■ THE JUBILANT BATTLE BACK TEAM WITH THE CLYDE PEARCE TROPHY

Hever Greenkeeper Up For Toro Award

Curran’s course tutor at Hadlow College, Anthony Stockwell, nominated him for the Greenkeeper of the Year Award, and, following the application, he was named a regional finalist before undergoing a rigorous interview to be named one of six finalists.

The national final, which takes place on September 17-18, will see Curran have to take part in another interview, an essay-based question and a questionnaire, before a winner is chosen.

HEVER CASTLE GREENKEEPER WILLIAM CURRAN been named as a finalist in the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award 2018.

The 28-year-old joined the Kentbased club as temporary summer staff last year, before starting a Level 2 greenkeeping apprenticeship run in conjunction with Hadlow College.

The apprenticeship is a mixture of hand-on learning under the guidance of Hever Castle’s Head Greenkeeper Rob Peers and various written assignments.

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Hemstock’s The Man At Mannings

DEVON’S BILLY HEMSTOCK beat the in-form Dave Coupland in a one-hole play off to claim his first victory of the season at the PGA EuroPro Tour’s Nokia Masters at Mannings Heath Golf Club & Wine Estate in Sussex.

Poor weather on the second day at the Horsham-based venue forced the tournament to be reduced to 36 holes.

Coupland (Woodhall Spa) was among the few players who managed to complete their second rounds on Friday, meaning that he had to sit out the entire day’s play on Saturday to find out if someone would be able to match his eleven-under-par total, which comprised rounds of 66 and 67.

Hemstock, who shot an opening 68, started the final day seven shots back with just 11 holes to play, but a phenomenal run of seven birdies in ten holes, including a curling eight-foot birdie putt on the last, added up to a 65 and catapulted the Teignmouth player into a share of the lead alongside Coupland. The duo then had to wait several nervous hours in the clubhouse as the chasing pack completed their second rounds. Marco Penge, Stiggy Hodgson and Will Enefer came close, getting to within one shot of the lead, but all had to settle for a share of third as the birdie putts failed to drop at the right time.

Despite not having hit a competitive shot all day, Coupland looked to be in the driving seat on the first play-off hole, as his tee shot on the par-four 18th found the middle of the fairway, with around 140 yards to the pin. Hemstock found the rough a similar distance from the flag, but, with no clear sight of the pin, looked to be in trouble. However, the Devonshire player hit a superb approach onto the front edge of the elevated green, some 15 feet from the pin, while Coupland could only hit his approach to 20 feet. With no feel for the speed of the greens, Coupland hit his birdie putt six feet past the cup, and then, with Hemstock just two feet away, the Lincolnshire player missed his return putt, leaving his rival a simple two-footer to claim his first win in two years on the EuroPro Tour.

“It feels fantastic. I’m really chuffed with this win,” said Hemstock. “I’ve put in a lot of hard work this season, so it’s great to see some rewards.”

Tiley Wins Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship

K

ent professional Steven Tiley won the 85th Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship following a dramatic final day at Nailcote Hall in Warwickshire.

The 35-year-old Challenge Tour player from Canterbury shot two rounds of 51 on the Cromwell Course for a six-under-par total of 102 to clinch victory by a shot from Nottinghamshire professional Andrew Marshall.

Tiley, who has enjoyed spells on the European Tour, was presented with the trophy and the €50,000 first prize by tournament host Tony Jacklin.

The Kent man had to fight off the attentions of Marshall, playing partner Craig Lawrie – son of former Open champion Paul – and European Tour player Aaron Rai before he was able to finally get his hands on the title.

EuroPro Tour player Marshall was left to rue a costly double bogey on the third hole, while Lawrie’s challenge faded with a bogey on the 13th. Rai, whose final round included a hole-in-one, saw his shot

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■ IN THE MONEY: STEVE TILEY (RIGHT) WITH PAR 3 TOURNAMENT HOST TONY JACKLIN

at glory disappear with a double bogey on the last, which saw him drop into a three-way tie for fourth with Mark McNulty and Ashley Mason.

McNulty’s 105 score was good enough to win the Super Seniors' title by one shot from Costantino Rocca, with the Italian missing out on a share of the spoils after dropping a shot on the final hole.

Speaking of his first British Par 3 championship victory, Tiley said: “It was great to play out there today.

Andrew [Marshall] put in a fantastic performance to keep me on my toes,

as did my playing partner Craig. It is always good to go into battle with people who are also playing well.”

The Norma C Herd Silver Salver, which is awarded to the day’s best scoring amateur, was won

by David Nelson, who finished on four over par; while the best round of the week was scored by Gary Wolstenholme, who fired a six-under 48 on the final day to move up into a share of 12th.

The four-day tournament also included two Celeb-Am events, which attracted a strong cast list of stars from stage, screen and sport.

The first was won by Irish football legend Steve Staunton with a one-over par 35, while the second was won by 52-year-old former Wolves striker Don Goodman with a three-over-par 37, which included four birdies.

The first team event was won by The Social Golfer’s Ian Halliwell, Roger Hurcombe and Steven Skitt with a score of 12 under, alongside darts legend Colin Lloyd; while the second was won by a team representing tournament sponsor Farmfood, who combined to score nine under par.

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[44] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

THE BIGGER PICTURE

STALKING TIGER Tiger Woods's return from the golfing wilderness in 2018 must be rated as one of the most incredible sporting comebacks of all time. Languishing at 589th in the world when he teed it up at the Farmers Insurance Open in January, and sidelined to the cheerleading role as a Ryder Cup vice-captain, seventh months later the 42-year-old 14-time Major champion is the verge of breaking back into the world’s top 20, has had serious chances to win at least two majors, and was a ‘no-brainer’ wildcard pick for US Ryder Cup captain Jim Furyk. Although he hasn’t won a tournament since 2013, Tiger's box office attraction has never been higher, with US TV channel CBS reporting a 73% increase in viewing figures on last year’s US PGA with Woods in the mix, while audience figures for the Open at Carnoustie, when Woods was also in contention on Sunday, were up by 38%. It only can be a matter of time before Tiger puts four rounds together and secures a 91st career victory. The world is waiting.

NEWS | AUTUMN 2018 [45] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

[46] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Old Ford Duo

■ CONOR GOUGH LIFTS THE BOYS AMATEUR TROPHY

Capture Staysure PGA Trophy

HighFlying Gough

B

uckinghamshire teenage talent Conor Gough won the Boys Amateur Championship after beating Spaniard José Luis Ballester 3&1 in the final held at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland.

The 15-year-old from Stoke Park teed off for the second round of Captures Boys Amateur the final two-up over And Earns Junior Ballester, after a closely Ryder Cup Call Up contested opening 18 holes of high quality golf.

Neither player managed to advance further than a one-hole lead until the par-three 16th, where Ballester, at one-down, faltered with a bogey. Gough went further ahead thanks to a birdie at the 17th, but the Spaniard hit back on the next to reduce his opponent’s lead to two holes heading into the break.

Gough – who already has two wins under his belt this season, having claimed the McGregor Trophy in July and the boys’ title at the Fairhaven Trophy earlier in the year – grew in confidence as the match neared its conclusion, and carded a birdie at the par-four 14th to double his lead, requiring just a half for victory at the 17th.

When Ballester’s tee shot landed in a gorse bush to the left of the fairway, he deemed the

ball unplayable and took a penalty drop. Sadly, the young Spaniard’s approach fell just short and found a greenside bunker, at which point he conceded the hole, and the match, to the Englishman, who completed a memorable 3&1 victory.

In taking the coveted title, Gough became the first Englishman to lift the trophy since Matt Fitzpatrick did so at Hollinwell in 2012. As part of the reward for his victory, Gough gained automatic entry into next year’s Amateur Championship at Portmarnock and The Island, and receives an exemption into Final Qualifying for next year’s Open Championship, which is also at Royal Portrush. He also gained an automatic place on the European Junior Ryder Cup team, which takes place at Golf Disneyland in Paris from September 24-25.

Gough said: “I feel incredible. It’s a dream come true. I never thought it would have happened this year. I knew I was playing well, but I didn’t quite think I’d go this far. I‘ve had an incredible season. I don’t think I‘ve finished outside the top 12 in any tournament this year, so I am really pleased to have managed to keep my form going.

“Looking down the list of past champions of the Boys’ Amateur, Matt Fitzpatrick is a very good person to follow. If I get anywhere near to achieving half of what he’s done already, I won’t be doing too badly, and if can win a place at the Open next year, back at Royal Portrush, that would be another dream come true.”

A PRO-AM PAIR representing Old Fold Manor Golf Club turned the inaugural final of the Staysure PGA Trophy at the London Golf Club into a procession.

PGA Professional Glen Portelli and his amateur sidekick, 14-handicapper Vic Kenny, showed their liking for the Stableford better ball format while scorching around the club’s Heritage and International Courses for a combined total of 93 points, which saw them pull six shots clear of the runner-up pairings from St Kew in Cornwall and Gerrards Cross Golf Club in Buckinghamshire.

St Kew held a twopoint lead over Old Fold Manor after the first round, but that lead had turned into a three-point deficit by the turn, as Portelli and Kenny piled in the birdies en route to

a final tally of 93 points.

Portelli, who bagged eagles at the parfive 12th and 15th holes, picked up the professional’s £7,500 first prize, and shared the trophy with his amateur teammate. “Glen putted really well,” said Kenny.

“I don’t think he made a mistake with the putter over the entire two days.

I’ll be on a high for a long time after this result. I think there’s going to be a rush of entries for it next year. I’ll definitely be trying to qualify for it again.”

Portelli, however, put his success with the putter down to the condition of the greens on both courses at the London Golf Club. “The greens were so nice to putt on,” he said. “If you got the ball rolling on the right line, it took care of itself."

■ OLD FOLD MANOR'S PRO GLEN PORTELLI AND VIC KENNY

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NEWS | AUTUMN 2018

[47]

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Portrush

Results In Open Sell-Out UNPRECEDENTED demand for tickets for next year's Open Championship at Royal Portrush has led to all four days being completely sold out 11 months ahead of the tournament.

The Open was last played in Northern Ireland in 1951, and there has been huge excitement about the return of one of the world’s great sporting events. In anticipation of high levels of demand, the R&A moved to an all-

ticket model for 2019, but the surge in ticket sales has surpassed all expectations.

The only remaining tickets are for the four practice days taking place from 14-17 July, which cost £15 for adults and £10 for those aged 16-24.

Children under the age of 16 are free if they are accompanied by an adult and have a ticket under the Open’s ‘Kids Go Free’ programme.

A waiting list has been introduced for fans wishing to register their interest in purchasing any cancelled or returned tickets for championship days,

which may become available at a later date. Priority for these tickets will be given to members of The One Club. It is free to sign up to and provides access to a range of other benefits associated with The Open.

Johnnie ColeHamilton, Executive Director of Championships at the R&A, said, “It is clear from the recordbreaking ticket sales that golf fans are looking forward to the long-awaited return of the Open to Northern Ireland. We knew there would be great demand, but it

has been even higher than we expected, and we hope fans will take advantage of the remaining practice day tickets now that

Rugby Stars From Down Under Win Golfing Bragging Rights At The Buckinghamshire

THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE staged a dramatic comeback during the afternoon singles to win the inaugural Icons of Rugby golf tournament 18.5-17.5, held at The Buckinghamshire Golf Club.

Team South captain Michael Campbell got the perfect response from his players as they trailed by two points heading into the singles. His team claimed 7.5 points from a possible 12, as George Gregan, Christian Cullen, Fourie Du Preez and Grant Fox put blue on the board early, winning the first four games to turn the tide in South’s favour.

Welshman Tom Shanklin gave Team North captain Sam Torrance and his a teammates a lifeline, beating Australian Andrew Mehrtens in game five (3&2), but it was short lived, as another wave of blue was coming up behind. Matt Burke (beat Jeremy Guscott 3&2), John Smith (Martyn Williams 2up) and Victor Matfield (Stuart Hogg 3&1) put Team

■ THE WINNING SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE TEAM

South within touching distance of the trophy.

Sir Gareth Edwards claimed his first win of the tournament for the Northern Hemisphere with a 3&2 victory over Sean Fitzpatrick, before South Africa’s record try scorer, Bryan Habana, recorded the vital half a point needed for Team South to start celebrating victory.

“I guess the Northern Hemisphere boys are used to the feeling of losing against the Southern boys,” said Campbell. “I’m delighted, I really am. I’ve enjoyed every minute of the Icons of Rugby. It’s my first time being a captain, it’s been great to make so many friends on both teams. Maybe the North boys won in the bar, but I’m happy to be

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we have sold out on championship days.”

The R&A is also reminding fans to only by tickets from official sources or

holding the trophy.”

Both teams won three matches each during the morning greensomes to be 13-11 (to Team North) going into the afternoon singles. Mike Tindall and Mike Catt made it four wins from four in game one with a 2&1 victory over Du Preez and Smit. Brian O’Driscoll and Jeremy Guscott (4&3 over Mehrtens & Habana) and Keith Wood and Sir Clive Woodward (1up over Burke & Fitzpatrick) were the other victors for the Northern Hemisphere.

Vital wins for Gregan and Grant Fox (2up over Hogg and Shanklin), Cullen and Matfield (2&1 over Luke Fitzpatrick and Jonathan Davies) and Jake White and Zinzan Brooke (3&1 over Williams and Edwards) provided the Southern Hemisphere with much needed momentum going into the all-important singles.

“I take my hat off to Michael and the boys; it was a great day’s play and they played incredible golf this afternoon,” said Torrance. “Every bit of this event has been fantastic, apart from the losing part! I want to say thank you to my team, who have been incredible both days, but we just didn’t get the luck in the singles.”

authorised ticketing providers. Any tickets bought on websites such as Viagogo, Safetickets.net, Stubhub, eBay and

Gumtree are made available without the permission of the R&A and, as such, may be refused entry to the championship.

Cave

Captures English Women’s Par 3 Championship

BLACKMOOR GOLF CLUB’S Susie Cave won the English Women’s Par 3 Championship after shooting a level-par 54 at Ampfield Golf Club in Hampshire.

Cave is the third member of Blackmoor to win the title in the past four years, following Esther Sparrow’s triumph in 2017, and Jane Shergold’s victory in 2015. The 13-handicapper was three over par after seven holes, but birdies at eight, nine, 12 and 14, followed by precious birdie at the 18th, saw her win the title by a single stroke from Sylvia Wicker (Petersfield) and Rachel Mackinlay (Stoke Park).

Mackinlay didn’t come away from the day empty handed, however, as she combined with her fellow Stoke Park players Jessica Pilgrim and Fraya Shiell to take the team prize.

The three girls are all part of the junior scholarship programme at Stoke Park. Fraya is 11 and plays off 20, Rachel is 12 and a 13-handicapper, while Jessica, 13, plays off 10 and is a Young Ambassador for England Golf and the Golf Foundation.

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[48] AUTUMN 2018 | NEWS

TOURNEWS...

TOUR TO CLAMP DOWN ON GREENREADING BOOKS

G

olf’s rule-making bodies have announced plans to limit the amount of information a player can receive regarding the contours of a green, in an attempt to reintroduce the skill of reading greens back into the professional game.

Under a proposal unveiled on August 2, an interpretation of Rule 4.3 (use of equipment) would allow players to still use green-reading books, but would restrict some of the information they can provide.

Specifically, the proposal calls for a ‘minimum slope indication limit’ that would allow greenreading books to continue to use numbers, lines, arrows or other indications to identify slopes on greens, but only in areas of four percent slope (2.29 degrees) or more. Areas where there is less

DECHAMBEAU DOMINATES FEDEX CUP WITH BACK-TO-BACK WINS

B

ryson de Chambeau dominated the first two events of the PGA Tour’s 2018 FedEx Cup series after winning the Northern

Trust Open and the Dell Technologies Championship in successive weeks.

The 24-year-old American’s hot run of form not only put him

slope on the green than the minimum would remain blank.

The proposal also includes a ‘maximum scale limit’ of 3/8-inch to five yards (1:480) to keep the printed material to a pocket-sized publication.

David Rickman, Executive Director of Governance at the R&A, said: “We have looked carefully at the use of these green-reading materials, and the extremely detailed information they provide, and our view is that they tip the balance too far away from the essential skill and judgment required to read subtle slopes. It is important to be clear, however, that we still regard

on course to win the $10 million payout as winner of the end-ofseason playoffs, but also secured him a call up for the Ryder Cup team as one of Jim Furyk’s four wildcards.

DeChambeau captured his second PGA Tour victory this year, and the third in 13 months, courtesy of an 18-under-par total at Northern Trust Open held at Ridgewood County Club. He then followed that up with victory at the Dell Technologies Championship at TPC Boston, where he finished on 16 under par to beat Justin Rose by two shots.

DeChambeau is the second player - after

Vijay Singh in 2008 - to win the first two legs of the FedEx Cup play-offs.

"I'm a man on a mission right now – two missions actually, one being the Ryder Cup and other winning the FedEx Cup," said DeChambeau, who moved up to seventh in the world ranking on the back of his great run of results "I'm doing pretty well right now, and I just got to keep moving forward. I've worked really hard to be a great golfer, and albeit I'm not great every week. I've got four wins under my belt in my second season on tour, and I'm proud of that.”

FITZPATRICK RETAINS EUROPEAN MASTERS TITLE

M

att Fitzpatrick put some of the disappointment of missing out on a place in Europe’s Ryder Cup team behind him when winning the Omega European Masters at Crans-surSierre Golf Club in Switzerland.

The 25-year-old from Yorkshire beat Denmark’s Lucas Bjerregaard in a play-off to become the first player in 40 years to successfully defend the title at the Omega European Masters.

Fitzpatrick, who narrowly missed out on automatic qualifying for the Ryder Cup, started the day four shots ahead of Bjerregaard, but the Dane carded a brilliant 63 to set the target at 17 under, and Fitzpatrick had to birdie the last to take it to extra holes.

Fitzpatrick then put his approach to 12 feet on the first trip back up the 18th, and another birdie saw him become the first player since Seve Ballesteros to go back-to-back at Crans-sur-Sierre.

“This is what I wanted to achieve this season – another win,” Fitzpatrick said. “Of all my wins, I'd

say that was definitely the most difficult. I didn't play my best today, but I managed to grind it out, and made some crucial birdies coming in, and I'm delighted.”

the use of yardage books and handwritten notes to be an entirely appropriate part of the game.”

Traditional yardage books that include basic illustrations showing the outline of greens and include information indicating ridges and general slopes will continue to conform to the Rules of Golf. Players and caddies can also still amend any green-reading materials with handwritten notes, although they cannot be a direct copy of the more-detailed green maps currently in use.

“Basically, the books are giving them a recommended line, and that goes too far. It’s removing that skill,” Pagel said. “So that was really the tipping point – where you started to see players using the books on short putts, it was plain to see that the skill of reading a green was quickly going away, and we wanted to make sure it was retained.”

In conjunction with the proposal, the USGA and R&A will begin a six-week feedback period up until October 15, where interested parties can offer suggestions before a final version of the interpretation goes into effect on January 1, 2019, along with the new Rules of Golf.

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TOUR NEWS IN BRIEF

THOMAS BAGS FIRST WGC EVENT Justin Thomas cruised to his maiden World Golf Championship title with a commanding four-shot victory at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational at Firestone Country Club. The 25-year-old American carded two birdies and a single bogey in a closing 69 to get to 15 under par and secure a comfortable victory. Kyle Stanley finished alone in second place, one stroke clear of Thorbjørn Olesen and Dustin Johnson after they closed with matching 64s.

Thomas said: “I've been knocking on the door this year between Mexico and the Match Play, so to win on a championship golf course, against a very tough field, feels great. Winning a WGC event was definitely one of the things that I wanted to add to my resumé.”

WARING WINS AT 200TH ATTEMPT

ROSE RISES TO NO.1 ON BACK OF FEDEX CUP RUNNER'S-UP FINISHES

J

ustin Rose became the world number one golfer for the first time in his 20-year career after bagging second-place finishes at the Dell Technologies and BMW Championship.

The 38-year-old climbed from fourth to the top of the world rankings after his solid run of form this summer, including runner-up finishes in two FedEx Cup series events, and became just the fourth Englishman to top the charts, after Nick Faldo, Lee Westwood and Luke Donald.

Rose could have won the BMW Championship if he had managed to par the final hole at Aronimink Golf Club, but his 15-foot putt lipped out, and he was forced into a play off, after he and Keegan Bradley finished on 20 under par. Rose then three-putted on the first play-off hole to hand the 32-year-old American the fourth PGA Tour win of his career.

Despite his back-to-back runner’s-up finishes, Rose was delighted to have finally reached the pinnacle of the world rankings. He said: "It's boyhood dream stuff, something I am incredibly proud of. It's been a good stretch of golf.

I've played solidly over the past year, and I'm delighted to get to the top."

He added: “I'd always envisaged getting to number one by winning tournaments. Finishing second at the Dell was a ‘good-feeling’ second, but the BMW is a ‘stinging-feeling’ second, although I know there is a bit of good news."

The final round of the BMW Championship was postponed until Monday after persistent rain made the course unplayable on Sunday. Bradley began the final round three shots behind Rose, but moved up the leaderboard with a six-underpar 64, while Rose shot a 67. Rory McIlroy finished fifth following a 68, while Tiger Woods, continuing his impressive run of form, closed with a 65, to tie for sixth.

England’s Paul Waring won his first European Tour title at his 200th attempt with victory at the Nordea Masters in Gothenburg. The 33 year old from Birkenhead held a two-shot lead with four holes to play, before playing partner Thomas Aiken birdied the last to force extra holes. However, South Africa's Aiken drove into the water on the first hole of the suddendeath play-off, with Waring's par good enough to secure victory.

Waring and Aiken both shot twounder 68s to finish on 14 under par, a shot ahead of Max Kieffer.

SNEDEKER SNEAKS IN AT WYNDHAM Brandt Snedeker won the Wyndham Championship by three shots after completing 29 holes in the final day. The 37-year-old American shot a final-round 65 to finish on 21 under for his second win at the tournament. He birdied the last hole to seal victory ahead of nearest challengers Webb Simpson and CT Pan. Pan shared the lead on 20 under heading into the 18th, but drove out of bounds and finished with a costly doublebogey.

MCCARRON’S A SHAW THING America’s Scott McCarron successfully defended the Shaw Charity Classic on the PGA Champions Tour after shooting a final round 63 at Canyon Meadows in Alberta, Canada. The 53-yearold secured his seventh win on the over-50s circuit by one stroke over Scott Parel, Joe Durant and Kirk Triplett. McCarron’s final round included seven birdies and a hole-in-one at the par-three 14th.

Durant missed a 12-inch putt on the 17th hole to tie for the lead.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

THE 42ND

RYDER CUP

SPECIAL PREVIEW MEET THE TEAMS, MEET THE COURSE

[50] AUTUMN 2018 | RYDER CUP PREVIEW GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

PLASTERING IN

PARIS?

Can one of the strongest US teams ever to cross the Atlantic maintain its tenuous grip on the Ryder Cup, or will Thomas Bjørn’s band of Euro fighters capitalise on a home draw, and superior course knowledge, to win the trophy back in Paris? Golf News editor Nick Bayly ponders the imponderables of this most intriguing of transatlantic tussles

T

wo years after Europe’s dispiriting horror show at Hazeltine, the embers of the Ryder Cup fire are being stoked once again as Europe and America reassemble on the outskirts of Paris for what promises to be a clash of styles in every meaning of the word.

While Jim Furyk’s team is stacked with big-hitting bombers who habitually eat par fives for breakfast, and have been known to take down par fours for afters, Europe’s cultured club is filled with graceful shotmakers for whom strategy and placement win the day over aerial bombardment.

With the US team boasting an average world ranking of 12 – including six of the top ten – compared to Europe’s average of 18, there’s no doubt that the visiting team has more strength in depth, but history has shown that the Ryder Cup is no great respecter of such numbers when it comes to the white heat of intercontinental competition. And let’s not forget that it has been fully 25 years – stretching all the way back to the Belfry in 1993 – since the Americans last

MEET THE TEAMS CAPTAIN: JIM FURYK

USA

BROOKS KOEPKA

Age: 28 World Ranking: 3 Ryder Cup Caps: 1 (16) Points record (W-L-H): 3-1-0 Arguably the best player in the world right now, on the back of his stunning wins at the US Open and US PGA Championship, Koepka has three majors in the bag at just 28, and is playing the golf of his life.

He made a suitably impressive Ryder Cup debut at Hazeltine, winning three of his four matches, and will be a tough nut to crack in any format.

JUSTIN THOMAS

Age: 25 World Ranking: 4 Ryder Cup Caps: 0 Winner of five tournaments in 2017, including the PGA Championship, last year’s FedEx Cup champion has bagged three further victories in 2018, including the Honda Classic and the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational. A supremely gifted player, he doesn’t travel much outside of America, but he played in the French Open this year and finished a creditable 8th, so clearly understands what is needed to score well on this course.

DUSTIN JOHNSON

Age: 34 World Ranking: 2 Ryder Cup Caps: 3 (10, 12, 16) Points record: 6-5-0

The reigning world No.1 has won three times in 2018 – a feat he also managed in 2017 and 2016 – with his victory at the Canadian Open clinching his spot on the team. He won two and lost two at Hazeltine in his first Ryder Cup since 2012, but teamed up with Kuchar to destroy Westwood and Pieters in the opening match, which set the tone for the week. He’s unbeaten in singles, and will be a hard man to pass in Paris.

PATRICK REED

Age: 28 World Ranking: 14 Ryder Cup Caps: 2 (14, 16) Points record: 6-1-2 America’s answer to Ian Poulter, Reed comes alive at the Ryder Cup, with his record of six wins and just one loss from nine matches speaking volumes for his fighting spirit and undoubted talent. His victory over McIlroy at Hazeltine set the tone for the final day, and the current Masters champion will be gunning for a chance to repeat the dose in Paris.

JORDAN SPIETH

Age: 25 World Ranking: 9 Ryder Cup Caps: 2 (14, 16) Points record: 4-3-2 Spieth has had a relatively quiet season by his standards, which is quite understandable following the fireworks of his first few years on tour, but the 2017 Open champion has bagged five top-10 finishes in 2018, including a third at the Masters and ninth at the Open. He played in all five matches at Hazeltine, winning 2.5 points and teaming up with Reed to take down Rose and Stenson twice.

BUBBA WATSON

Age: 39 World Ranking: 13 Ryder Cup caps: 3 (10, 12, 14) Points record: 3-8-0 Controversially left out of the team in 2016, owing to a lack of allies in the camp, Watson’s back by rights this time

following a stellar season on the PGA Tour, which has seen three wins, most recently at the Travelers Championship in June. The long-hitting left-hander boasts a poor Ryder Cup record, losing eight of his 11 matches to date, but his high flight will be an asset around Le Golf National should he be able to keep his ball in play off the tee.

RICKIE FOWLER

Age: 29 World Ranking: 8 Ryder Cup Caps: 3 (10, 14, 16) Points record: 2-4-5 A captain’s pick in 2016, Fowler qualified automatically this time, mainly on the back of a runner-up finish in the Masters, where he made six birdies in the final 11 holes. He has been on two losing Ryder Cup teams and has only won two points, both of them coming at Hazletine, where he teamed up with Mickelson to beat McIlroy and Andy Sullivan and then won his singles match against Justin Rose 1 up.

WEBB SIMPSON

Age: 33 World Ranking: 19 Ryder Cup Caps: 2 (12, 14) Points record: 2-3-1 The 2012 US Open champion forced his way into the reckoning with a somewhat surprising win at the Players Championship and some consistent results in the majors, with top 20s in three of them, including tied ninth at the Open. Expect him to play three matches at most – he only played two in 2014 and won neither.

TIGER WOODS

Age: 42 World Ranking: 26 Ryder Cup Caps: 7 (97, 99, 02, 04, 06, 10, 12) Points record: 13-17-3 Selected as vice-captain at the start of the season, Woods has confounded the doctors and his critics with a Lazarus-style comeback to the very top of the game. After coming close to winning the Open and the PGA Championship, and bagging several other top 10s, he was a shoe-in

pick, and makes a welcome return to the Ryder Cup after a six-year absence.

PHIL MICKELSON

Age: 48 World Ranking: 24 Ryder Cup Caps: 11 (97-16) Points record: 18-20-7 The oldest man in either team was another no-brainer captain’s pick for Furyk. With a win in Mexico and six top-10 finishes, the mercurial lefthander is still playing world-class golf, although he is prone to having his very off days more than he used to. Given that he hbeen on the losing team eight times in his 11 appearances, his win record is pretty good, but which Phil will turn up in Paris?

BRYSON DE CHAMBEAU

Age: 24 World Ranking: 8 Ryder Cup Caps: 0 There will be few more confident players teeing it up in Paris, following his impressive front-running wins in the first two events of the FedEx Cup playoffs, than DeChambeau.

Winner of the Memorial earlier this season, his bombshell performances at the Northern Trust and Dell Technologies made his wildcard pick a formality.

A quirky character, he can be prone to the odd meltdown, as he showed when throwing away the European Open in Germany last month.

TONY FINAU

Age: 28 World Ranking: 15 Ryder Cup Caps: 0 The last, but certainly not least, of Jim Furyk’s wildcard selections has been one of the most consistent performers on the PGA Tour this season, with top-10s in the Masters, Open and US Open, and a second and fourth in the first two FedEx Cup events.

Long off the tee – he averages 316 yards with the driver – he makes a ton of birdies and will be a huge asset providing he adapts to European conditions.

RYDER CUP PREVIEW | AUTUMN 2018

[51]

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

managed a victory on the away leg.

A quarter of a century of hurt on the road. Ouch.

Faced with this mighty opposition, European skipper Thomas Bjørn will not be asking his men to fight fire with fire, and Le Golf National, with its plentiful water features and thick rough, is the ideal place to spring a trap on an American team that is used to playing smash-and-grab courses that are traditional fayre on the PGA Tour.

And Bjorn has plenty of quality and Ryder Cup pedigree at his disposal.

Despite Europe having five Ryder Cup debutants – America has three – the matches will hold no fears for the likes of Tommy Fleetwood and Jon Rahm – both global stars in their own right. Tyrell Hatton is something on an unknown quantity in this rareified arena, and, although a gritty player, his tendency towards plot-losing will need to be kept in check, and it will be interesting to see whom Bjorn pairs him up with in the two-ball formats.

Bjørn went on record back in June as saying that ‘you can’t shy away from form’ when it comes to picking players to fill out his team, so it was quite surprising to many that he should have chosen the hopelessly out-of-sorts Sergio Garcia as a wildcard over someone like Matt Wallace, who has won three times this season. But with so many untested Ryder Cup players already in his squad, it’s easy to understand why he’s turned to experience, and in Garcia, Paul Casey, Ian Poulter and Henrik Stenson, he has that in spades.

Recent past history of picking major champions and experienced players with poor current form has proved costly in the Ryder Cups over the years

– Westwood and Kaymer managed just one point between them at Hazeltine in 2016 – so Bjørn is taking a considerable risk in picking Garcia, who missed the cut in all four majors this season, and has failed to progress to the weekend in eight of his last PGA Tour events. In what is amounting to a very small plus side, the Spaniard at least bagged a top ten in the French Open, which was held over the Ryder Cup course, where he shot a third round 64 to move into contention.

And it's a certainty that no-one will be fighting harder to put some points on the board than the 38-year-old

IT HAS BEEN FULLY 25 YEARS – STRETCHING ALL THE WAY BACK TO THE BELFRY IN 1993 – SINCE AMERICAN LAST MANAGED A VICTORY ON THE AWAY LEG. A QUARTER OF A CENTURY OF HURT ON THE ROAD

CAPTAIN: THOMAS BJORN

EUROPE

FRANCESCO MOLINARI

Age: 35 World Ranking: 5 Ryder Cup Caps: 2 (10, 12) Points record (W-L-H): 0-4-2 The ice cool Italian topped the points list after winning The Open at Carnoustie in July, and this supremely consistent ball striker is in the form of his life. His Ryder Cup scoring record isn’t great for someone who has been on two winning teams, but that was a while ago, and he’s a different player now, with wins on both sides of the Atlantic this season confirming his elite status.

JUSTIN ROSE

Age: 38 World Ranking: 1 Ryder Cup Caps: 4 (08, 12, 14, 16) Points record: 11-6-2 The reigning Olympic champion is enjoying one of his best seasons on tour, especially in the Majors, where he has finished inside the top 20 at all four, including runner-up at The Open. He won the Fort Worth Invitational on the PGA Tour back in May. Playing in his fifth Ryder Cup, this experienced campaigner can be relied upon to win more than his fare share of points.

RORY MCILROY

■ TIGER WOODS WILL BE TEEING IT UP AT A RYDER CUP FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2012

Spaniard, who has blue blood running through his veins.

Stenson, who was always nailed on for a captain’s pick provided his wrist held up, enjoyed a reasonable run of early season form, finishing fifth in the Masters and sixth in the US Open, but since then his form has tailed off, with him most recently missing the cut at the PGA Championship. A determined competitor, and straight hitter, the 2016 Open champion has much to offer.

It is understood that Bjørn has not asked Le Golf National’s course manager, Alejandro Reyes, to trick up the Albatros course, but he will ensure that the rough – which is graded at four different levels, will be narrowed at the key landing areas, to ensure that America’s bomb squad – Dustin Johnson, Brooks Kopeka and Bubba Watson – are going to have to keep it on the short stuff if they are to capitalise on the their length.

Just over 18 months ago, most golf fans were wondering whether Tiger Woods would ever swing a club again, let alone compete. So to find the 42-year-old not only competing, but

Age: 29 World Ranking: 8 Ryder Cup Caps: 4 (10, 12, 14, 16) Points record: 9-6-4 McIlroy has found wins hard to

come by this year, with three runner-up finishes and a single victory coming at Bay Hill in March.

However, he has found a more consistent game in recent months and is always one to come alive at the Ryder Cup. He'll be relishing the chance to reignite his rivalry with Patrick Reed in Paris, but there’s no guarantee that will happen unless the captains collude. Go on, collude!

TYRRELL HATTON

Age: 26 World Ranking: 22 Ryder Cup Caps: 0 One of five rookies in the team, Hatton finished third on the points list after consistent performances during the qualifying period. He won the Dunhill Links for the second consecutive year last October, then followed that up with a win at the Italian Open a week later. He made the cut in every one of the four Majors this year, finishing sixth at the US Open and 10th at the US PGA. A fiery customer, Bjørn will need to handle him with care, but he won’t lack for competitive spirit.

TOMMY FLEETWOOD

Age: 27 World Ranking: 16 Ryder Cup Caps: 0 The current Race to Dubai champion had a huge year in 2017, winning in Abu Dhabi and at the French Open in Paris en route to claiming the No.1 spot in Europe. He detained his Abu Dhabi title at the beginning of this year, and finished second in the US Open. Boasting great course form and a brilliant match play temperament, Fleetwood is a Ryder Cup rookie but won’t be expected to play like one.

JON RAHM

Age: 23 World Ranking: 5 Ryder Cup Caps: 0 Rahm becomes the latest Spanish sensation to earn a Ryder Cup appearance at a young age. Last year was his first full season, and with five victories already on the board, only Tiger Woods can match

him for early career wins. The big-hitting 23-yearold has a fiery temperament, but this engaging bull of a man will be like be like a matador when he steps into the Ryder Cup ring, and would be an obvious partner for Garcia.

THORBJORN OLESEN

Age: 28 World Ranking: 40 Ryder Cup Caps: 0 Olesen bagged the last qualifying position with a top-five finish in Denmark. The likeable Dane has been in consistent form this season, collecting a win at the Italian Open and four subsequent top-six finishes, including third at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational. Although a rookie, he attended the 2016 Ryder Cup as a guest, so he knows a little bit about what to expect, and he’s certainly got the game to compete with the best.

ALEX NOREN

Age: 36 World Ranking: 15 Ryder Cup Caps: 0 The late-blooming Swede has enjoyed a stellar couple of years, and fully deserves his place in the world’s top 15. He’s picked up six wins on the European Tour since July 2016, including two Rolex Series events at the 2017 BMW PGA Championship and, most recently, at the French Open at Le Golf National in June, so he will not be short on confidence when he steps onto the first tee. A superb ball striker and a great putter, he will be an asset in all formats.

HENRIK STENSON

Age: 42 World Ranking: 22 Ryder Cup Caps: 4 (06, 08, 14, 16) Points record: 8 The team’s senior Swede had to rely on a captain’s pick to secure his fifth appearance in the Ryder Cup, but providing his elbow injury held up, the 2016 Open champion always look a nailed on selection for a team that was short on experience. On his day, Stenson’s best is still brilliant, although against this calibre of

properly competing for titles, is nothing short of a miracle. Having been picked as a vice-captain early in the process, Woods will take great comfort from having bullied his way on to the team, with his performance over the summer – most notably at the Open and the PGA, where he had realistic chances of winning, made him impossible to ignore when it came to the captain’s four wildcard picks. Despite his somewhat lacklustre individual record in the Ryder Cup, having Woods in the mix will only add to the Ryder Cup’s global appeal and add some suitable fizz to what is already an effervescent event.

In his seven Ryder Cup appearances, Woods has always played in the first group of matches in the opening morning, losing five and winning just two. On three occasions he was sent out in the very first match, to make a statement of intent, and lost them all. It seems that just as Woods’s teammates can be inspired by having the 14time major champion in their line-up, Europe’s players are equally, if not more so, fired up to bring him down.

I doubt that Furyk will be quite so keen to play the Woods card so boldly in Paris, and I fully expect Tiger to play a slightly reduced role in his eighth appearance. Saving him for the fourballs and singles, rather than the more risky foursomes – where one of his wilder swings could result in some easy holes for the opposition – might be the smart, if not popular, move.

Either way, the stage is set for one almighty showdown. So pull up a chair, plump up the cushions, uncork the burgundy, and settle down for yet another edition of the greatest golfing show on earth.

opposition he’ll need to be firing on all cylinders to make an impact.

SERGIO GARCIA

Age: 38 World Ranking: 30 Ryder Cup Caps: 8 (99, 02, 04, 06, 08, 12, 14, 16) Points record: 19-11-7 Perhaps one of the more questionable captain’s picks, given his parlous form this season – he missed the cut in all four majors and failed to make the FedEx Cup playoffs – Garcia can consider himself fortunate that the lack of experience elsewhere in the team almost necessitated his selection. He will have to bring home the points if the knives are not be out, so let’s hope this most talented of players brings his A game to Paris.

IAN POULTER

Age: 42 World Ranking: 33 Ryder Cup Caps: 5 (04, 08, 10, 12, 14) Points record: 12-4-2 Europe has never lost a Ryder Cup with Ian Poulter in the team – he was injured in 2016 – so it was impossible to imagine Bjørn leaving Mr Ryder Cup out of proceedings, especially given his impressive form this season, which has seen him rise back up the world rankings and win on the PGA Tour. With eyes bulging and chest pumping, there will be few players more eager to get some blue points on the board than the man they call ‘The Postman’.

PAUL CASEY

Age: 41 World Ranking: 16 Ryder Cup Caps: 3 (04, 06, 08) Points record: 3-2-4 Having re-established himself as one of the game’s most consistent performers, Casey, to the delight of Bjørn, threw his hat back in the Ryder Cup ring when he rejoined the European Tour last year, having relinquished his card in 2015. It’s been a decade since we saw him on the tee for Europe, but his experience and all-round game will be an asset, as will his combative nature.

[52] AUTUMN 2018 | RYDER CUP PREVIEW GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

2018 RYDER CUP COURSE GUIDE LE GOLF NATIONAL: A THEATRE OF DREAMS… AND NIGHTMARES

Part-links, part-parkland, part-waterpark, Le Golf National’s Albatros Course is the ultimate Ryder Cup venue, offering thrills and spills aplenty and a closing stretch that will set nerves jangling for players and fans alike

■ THE STAGE IS SET FOR THE OPENING SHOTS OF THE 42ND RYDER CUP

I

f you are a golfing neutral, and even if you aren’t, Le Golf National’s Albatros Course is just about as perfect a venue for match play golf as you could find.

Favouring neither one side nor the other, this hybrid of a track will suit bombers and gougers alike, while the superb stadium design looks sure to provide a suitably dramatic setting for one of the most drama-filled sporting events on the planet.

L'Albatros underwent a €7.5 million revamp last year, which saw 17 new bunkers, four new back tees and two new lakes built specifically for the Ryder Cup. The greens on the first and 16th holes were also redesigned to offer more pin

1ST, PAR 4, 419 YARDS

9TH, PAR 5, 592 YARDS

The opening hole sets the tone for every Ryder Cup match, and this short but fiddly par four will serve the job very well. Although requiring just a long-iron or hybrid off the tee to set up a wedge to the green, the opening shot needs

Closing out the front nine on a positive note is essential in any golf tournament, but especially in the Ryder Cup. This demanding uphill par five presents a chance to stamp your authority going into the back nine, with a birdie on offer providing you can find the long, but narrow raised green that is generally only reached with a short iron with your third shot.

heart. The tee shot is played entirely over a lake to a long, shallow green set at 45 degrees to the water. Three clovershaped bunkers behind the green await anything over-hit, while the depths of the lake await the timid tee shot.

13TH, PAR 4, 415 YARDS As the round enters the final third, this tricky par four, which is stroke index 3, could play a pivotal role in the balance of power. It requires careful

positions, while the par-3 11th has been remodelled to include new bunkering and a pond in front of the green. All of which will serve to ramp up the challenge on what is already one of the toughest tournament venues in Europe.

Although the Albatros Course is untested as a match play venue, you only need to look back at recent editions of the French Open to understand what a brilliant venue it will be for the Ryder Cup format.

The demanding four-hole closing stretch is pure theatre, while there are any number of holes where big numbers can be racked up if you or your partner are not swinging it perfectly.

Measuring just over 7,300 yards off the

back tees, the par-72 course is untypical of any track you’ll find anywhere in France, with its open links-like environment and undulating terrain contrasting with many of Paris's flatter tree-lined layouts. Excellent definition is given to the holes by an array of water hazards, rolling mounds and stylish bunkering, while long fescue grasses and gorse-like bushes lie in wait for wayward drives. Dune-like mounding has given a British links feel to much of the course, while the water-laden closing stretch is more American in character - a perfect balance for the Ryder Cup. Here's our guide to some of the holes that may decide the fate of the matches.

16TH, PAR 3, 177 YARDS positioning from the tee so that you can hit your approach over the water and between the tall trees guarding the entrance to the green.

15TH, PAR 4, 408 YARDS The 15th is not the longest par four, but precision is required every step of the way. A lake snakes around the right-hand side of the fairway before wrapping itself around an island green.

Opting for a long iron off the tee is the sensible play, and will leave a mid-iron to a green measuring 39 yards front to back.

Given a slight redesign in 2016, the par-three 16th is a dramatically descending hole, played to a green framed by bunkers, mounds and water to the front and right. Club selection is key, as the green slopes towards the water, so players won’t want to be chipping towards a front pin placement. Miss the green and it will take a minor miracle to keep a bogey or worse off your card.

17TH, PAR 4, 480 YARDS Twinned with the 18th, which plays in the opposite direction, this beastly par four appears fairly innocuous at

first, with no bunkers or water in sight. The tee shot, though straightforward, plays uphill to a fairway filled with humps and bumps. The undulations are just as pronounced on the green, which cambers dramatically from right to left.

18TH, PAR 4, 471 YARDS a clear head, as water cuts into the fairway off the left, while rough awaits on the right. And that wedge to the green will be almost all over water, while there are three bunkers right of the putting surface to snaffle up nervy bail-outs.

2ND, PAR 3, 210 YARDS If you’re already one down, this isn’t a tee shot for the faint of

■ 13TH HOLE

■ 16TH HOLE

A belter of a finishing hole, perhaps even more so in stroke play, when no lead is enough, the par-four 18th features water down the entirety of the left hand side of the hole, with bunkers protecting the right. The island green looks small from the fairway, and will appear miniscule to players looking to secure a point or rescue a half.

AUTUMN 2018 | WWW.GOLFNEWS.CO.UK/EQUIPMENT

CONTENTS

SPOTLIGHT ON SRIXON NEW Z SERIES WOODS & IRONS REVEALED PRO SHOP JPX919 MIZUNO IRONS, SKYCADDIE’S LATEST GPS + JUNIOR CLUBS FROM PING ON TEST MOTOCADDY’S M3 PRO TROLLEY IN THE GROOVE HIT IT CLOSER WITH THE BEST NEW WEDGES THE LYNX EFFECT Q&A WITH LYNX GOLF’S STEPHANIE ZINSER GOING THE DISTANCE BUSHNELL HITS THE TARGET WITH NEW LASERS

MASTERS OF SPIN

MEET CLEVELAND GOLF’S NEW RTX-4 WEDGES

[54] AUTUMN 2018

EQUIPMENT & GEAR

ROTEX REINVENTED Cleveland Golf has drawn upon all of its almost four decades of experience of making high performance clubs into creating its latest Tour-inspired short game tools – the RTX 4 range of wedges

"W

ith the new RTX 4, we spared no expense in trying to achieve the best possible wedge for the best players in the world, and then to bring that wedge to the consumer,” said John Rae, Vice President at Cleveland Golf. “We worked tirelessly with our tour staff to refine every detail of the wedge and its shape to fit their needs.”

Making their competitive debut at last month’s US PGA Championship, the RTX 4 wedges feature the latest face technologies, tour-preferred shaping, expanded grind offerings and the most popular components used by Tour pros, and are the most ‘tour-authentic’ wedges that the brand has ever made.

The driving force behind the RTX 4 is the fourth generation of Cleveland’s Rotex Face Technology.

Following four life cycles, years of research, and millions of data points, the tolerances were tightened to help provide ultimate short game control. This

serves to generate more spin through the sharpest Tour Zip grooves, more aggressive face milling, and more precise laser milling.

Following extensive tour feedback, RTX 4 features a more compact blade shape,

with less offset and a smaller overall profile to provide that classic blade design that tour players prefer.

Additionally, it comes with four new sole grinds, Full, Mid, Low and an allnew XLOW grind. The Full, offered in lofts from 56

to 60 degrees, features a uniform bounce across the sole. The Mid is available in lofts ranging from 46 to 60 degrees, offers an evolution from the RTX3’s V-Sole design, which features more leading edge bounce and followed

by a flatter trailing edge that keeps the leading edge closer to the ground on open-face shots.

The Low is Cleveland’s traditional, versatile lowbounce offering with a C-shaped grind with heel, toe and trailing edge relief.

It is offered in lofts ranging from 56 to 64 degrees.

New is the XLOW, which has the widest sole of the four, and is designed for tight lies and firm conditions. It is offered only in 58- and 60-degree lofts.

tour player reaction: “It feels like the ball is really spinning off the face. There are extra little grooves in there, which makes it spin more and it definitely does spin more.”

Shane Lowry ■ THE RTX-4 WEDGE IS OFFERED IN FOUR GRINDS TO SUIT A WIDE RANGE OF SWING TYPES AND COURSE CONDITIONS

RTX-4 WEDGES KEY INNOVATIONS: • Rotex Face Technology: The 4th generation Rotex Face features Cleveland’s sharpest grooves and most aggressive face milling pattern.

• Tour-Developed Sole Grinds: Four sole grinds, deliver enough versatility to execute every short game shot imaginable.

• Progressive Feel Balancing Technology: Next-generation Feel Balancing Technology is optimised by loft for even more short game control.

• Tour-Authentic Components: RTX 4 comes standard with the #1 wedge shaft and #1 wedge grip on the PGA Tour.

• Tour Shaping: Tour-driven compact shaping uses less offset to provide more workability and confidence at address.

“I really love the bounce profile. I like the feeling of using the back bounce on the wedge so, when I look at that, it’s something that really appeals to me. It’s also got that soft feel, which is so nice.”

Graeme McDowell What I love about this wedge is the way the sole works in the bunker. It doesn’t dig in too much, and I’m able to really clip the ball and put a lot of spin on it. I’m very excited to be playing this wedge.”

Keegan Bradley “Cleveland wedges are already the best wedges in the game, so to improve on their wedges is hard to do, but they’ve done it with RTX 4.

Sean Crocker

Cleveland Golf’s RTX 4 wedges are available in Tour Satin, Black Satin and Tour Raw finishes, and are priced at £129. They go on sale on September 14. For more information, visit clevelandgolf.co.uk.

EQUIPMENT & GEAR AUTUMN 2018 [55] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Z SERIES IRONS:

PERFORMANCE, POWER & PRECISION

THE POWER OF Z Srixon’s new generation of tour-validated Z Series woods and irons promise distance and precision in equal measure for a wide range of golfers

T

he new Srixon Z series drivers shows that the driver face, strictly regulated for its springiness for the past two decades, is still finding ways to add extra yardage to our drives – especially the ones we thought we didn’t quite catch out of the middle.

The multi-adjustable Z 785 driver benefits not only from a wraparound cupface design to improve the way the face flexes at the perimeter, but also from a new titanium alloy in the cupface structure that wraps around the crown, skirt and sole.

The so-called ‘super’ titanium-51AF, first used

by Srixon in some of its high-end XXIO drivers, had been developed for its high strength and lighter weight in car engine parts, such as intake and exhaust valves.

Its high strength results in Srixon’s thinnest driver face ever.

The super lightweight titanium makes the driver face more flexible through its ability to yield multiple thicknesses. Srixon’s engineers tweaked the thicknesses based on their research on how often players make impact with various sections on the face. A spot that gets less frequent impact might be thinner because it experiences less stress, which in turn helps off-centre areas flex more. The result is the largest area of the face approaches the maximum flexibility allowed under the

rules in company history.

“We’ve got regions of the face that are now sub-two millimetres, which in a driver is pretty rare,” said Jeff Brunski, Srixon’s vice president of research and development for Srixon. “We’re definitely hitting thicknesses we haven’t been able to get down to before.”

The Z 785 driver promotes a low-spin, penetrating trajectory in a tour-preferred look and profile, while the same technologies are applied in the fairway woods and hybrids to deliver the ball-flight that better players prefer.

The 785 driver, which comes with a premium Project X HZRDUS shaft as standard, also benefits from Srixon’s Quick Tune System, which enables the loft and swing weight to be easily adjusted to suit a player’s preferred set up.

“The new Z Series woods are pretty easy to explain: they’re long,” said Srixon marketing director Brian Schielke. “Longer than our past woods, and longer than the competition. Our stronger, faster titanium, combined with cup face construction, is totally different from everything out there, and it really shows up, both on a launch monitor and on the course.”

PGA Tour professional Keegan Bradley, who has tested out all the new clubs, said of the 785: “This driver is faster, longer and just better.

■ TOUR STAR RUSSELL KNOX HAS BEEN IMPRESSED WITH THE PERFORMANCE OF SRIXON'S NEW Z 785 DRIVER

It’s really coming off hot and straight. It’s very forgiving and the sweet spot is really big.”

Former US Open champion Graeme McDowell has also been impressed with the Z 785 driver’s looks and performance. He said: “A big key for me is accuracy. I love the bulge and roll look to this head, and I really feel like I can hit a lot of fairways with it. It’s just a beautiful looking driver that’s got a nice high launch so it looks like the ball wants to topple over and get maximum distance.”

RRPS: Z 785 driver £349, Z F85 fairway woods £199, Z H85 hybrids £179.

Srixon has unveiled two new Z Series irons, the Z 785 and the Z 585, both of which are forged and feature cutting-edge technologies that enhance distance, workability and feel in a tour-validated design.

The Z 785 irons feature a tour cavity, providing additional mass behind the impact location for increased shot-shaping ability and versatility, while the Z 585 irons feature an added speed groove – a new internal channel on the face insert that allows more face-flex, enhancing ball speed and distance.

Both irons offer an updated Tour V.T. Sole for smoother turf interaction and more consistent ball striking, while the forged construction from the soft 1020 carbon steel provides a better feel through impact.

“The Z 785 and Z 585 irons are yet another step forward for Srixon as we continue to produce some of the highestperforming irons designed for better players,” said Jeff Brunski, the brand’s vice president of research and development. “The forged carbon steel Z 785 muscle-backs are the best feeling irons we’ve ever made, featuring best-in-class turf interaction from the Tour V.T. Sole and enhanced control from deeper, sharper grooves.”

Brunski added: “Meanwhile, the Z 585s are similarly forged, featuring a high-strength steel face for more ball speed, and now with an added speed groove for even more consistent distance control. Outstanding feel, control and distance from the two lines can be seamlessly blended together into a mixed set.”

As with the woods, the new irons have been widely tested

by Srixon’s team of tour staff, including Graeme McDowell and Russell Knox. McDowell said: “We already know that Srixon has one of the best forged irons on the market. The stats say that.

Tour players choose it, even when they don’t have to. It sits great behind the ball and has that nice, soft buttery feel off the face.”

After testing out the Z 785 irons, Knox said: “When I’m putting the club behind the ball I have to be full of confidence and this club looks unbelievable. This iron is exactly how I want an iron to look. It’s very easy to hit and I know I’m going to hit a very good shot even before I hit it. The sweet spot’s massive.”

Rounding out the new irons range are the new Z U85 Utility irons, which build on the recent success of the Z U65 Utility iron.

The U85s Utility irons feature a hollow, forged construction for a high-launch trajectory, soft feel and unmatched distance. They boast an iron-like address profile, making them perfect to create the ideal combo set with the Z 785 or Z 585 irons, depending on player preference.

RRPS: £799 for a six-piece steel set (£899 for a six-piece graphite set) for the Z 585 and Z 785 irons, while the U85 Utility irons are priced at £169 per club. A wide range of premium aftermarket shafts are available at no upcharge.

For more details, and to locate your nearest Srixon stockists, visit www.srixon.co.uk.

Inspiring irons: The new Z 785 and Z 585 irons will appeal to all good players looking for power and precision

[56] AUTUMN 2018

EQUIPMENT & GEAR GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

CALLAWAY CHROME SOFT TRUVIS BALL

GALVIN GREEN AL JACKET

£37.99 FOR 12, CALLAWAYGOLF.EU Callaway is giving golfers the chance to reveal their Ryder Cup allegiances with the launch of Ryder Cup-themed versions of its Chrome Soft TruVis ball, which are available with European flag and Stars and Stripes designs. The balls feature all of the same technology found in the company’s Tour-proven Chrome Soft, including an ultra-soft urethane cover and the new graphene dual core, which promotes high launch and low spin off the tee, and shot-stopping spin around the green.

£400, GALVINGREEN.COM The Al full-zip jacket is made from stretch Gore-Tex fabric and incorporates a new waterproof membrane that offers 25% more breathability than earlier designs. The three-layer jacket boasts a super smooth texture, while a C-Knit backer makes it easy to slip on and off over a jumper. Other features include a rubberised collar edge, water-repellent zippers, easy-close fasteners on the collar and cuffs. The whole design, which features a repositioned side seam, chest adjustors and an elastic drawstring at the hem, enables the wearer to swing in total comfort. It comes in four colours and sizes S-3XL.

MAX GOLF PROTEIN £24 FOR 12, MAXGOLFPROTEIN.COM Max Golf Protein’s range of drinks and energy bars are a healthy and convenient alternative to the traditional diet of chocolate and sugary drinks, which, while providing a short burst of energy, will inevitably result in tiredness and reduced concentration.

Not only does protein help to grow and repair muscles, but it also helps the mind to focus more when it matters most on the course.

Each vanilla-flavoured 330ml Max Golf Protein drink (£36 for 12) contains a unique blend of ingredients which provide a slow release of protein (25g), balanced with just the right amount of carbohydrates to keep golfers at their best around 18 holes. Low in fat, and containing just 165 calories, it is the tasty way to boot your stamina and your concentration.

Max Golf Protein bars (£24 for 12) are packed with 11g of protein and only 1.3g saturated fat, and are ideal for a tasty, energyboosting snack at any time of the day. They are now available in two flavours, Natural Peanut and new Banana & Cashew. The former combines natural peanuts, dates, apple-pear concentrate, soy protein, while the latter is made with banana, cashew nuts, raisins and organic ingredients.

PING PRODI G JUNIOR SET £60 PER IRON, PING.COM Ping has sought to end the financial pain felt by parents due to the limited lifespan of junior golf equipment by offering a free club adjustment service with its new Prodi G junior range.

Comprising a full set of clubs and bag for ages seven to 13, Ping’s unique offer looks set to ensure that as junior golfers grow, they are still using equipment that is correctly fitted for their size and swing.

The 460cc driver (£215) features the same turbulators that can be seen on the crown of the adult G400 driver to reduce aerodynamic drag for added clubhead speed. There’s also a dragonfly crown to make the head’s weighting more efficient and a graphite shaft that provides a lightweight feel. The driver comes with 15 degrees of loft.

The fairway wood (£110) also features crown turbulators and comes in 22° of loft, while the hybrid (£90) comes with 27° of loft. The irons (£60 per club) feature a CTP insert and graphite shafts to make them lighter and easier to swing. There are also Glide-style wedges (£60) that come in 52° and 56° lofts.

To complete the set, Ping’s Voss putter (£60) features a PP58 grip for enhanced feel and control.

PRO SHOP

YOUR GUIDE TO THE LATEST GEAR

POWAKADDY COMPACT C2I £599.99/£649.99, POWAKADDY.COM PowaKaddy has raised the bar in the increasingly competitive market for minimalist golf trolleys with the Compact C2i - an electric trolley that folds down to such tiny dimensions that you could almost fit it in your golf club locker.

Designed to be packed away in two simple folds, the C2i features a 2.8-inch colour screen, a USB port for charging GSP devices and smartphones, compartments for balls, tees and pencils, a scorecard holder, and a soft touch handle which can be adjusted to three different positions to fit the golfer’s preferred height. There is also an automatic distance control function, which can send the trolley off for pre-determined distances.

It also boasts PowaKaddy’s Plug ‘n’ Play battery system, which does away with the need for any wires or connectors, and is powered by an 18- or 36-hole lithium battery. The trolley comes with a three-year warranty, while the battery is has a five-year guarantee.

EQUIPMENT & GEAR AUTUMN 2018

[57]

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

MIZUNO JPX919 IRONS TITLEIST TS DRIVERS £469, TITLEIST.CO.UK Challenged by its tour players to produce a new driver to delivering increased speed and distance, Titleist's R&D team undertook a two-year task named the ‘Titleist Speed Project’, which set out to strip back driver design and rebuild it piece by piece for speed.

The result are the TS2 and TS3 drivers, both of which feature a new Speed Chassis which achieves increased ball speeds, as well as a higher launch with lower spin and increased moment of inertia. This has been achieved through the use of a thinner crown (20% thinner than the 917 driver); a thinner, variable thickness face; a lower centre of gravity (MOI up 12%), and a more aerodynamic head shape (drag down by 20%).

The 460cc TS2, which is offered in 8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5° and 11.5° lofts, is built to deliver power and accuracy, and features a fixed centre of gravity placed low and deep in the head to deliver a higher trajectory than the TS3.The 460cc TS3 incorporates a more traditional pear shape, and slightly smaller footprint, and is designed to produce a mid-launch, low spin ball flight that will appeal to better players. In addition to the adjustable swingweight offered in the more forgiving TS2, the TS3 incorporates Titleist’s SureFit CG that allows players to move the centre of gravity to find their optimal ball flight.

Both drivers are available with a choice of four 45.5-inch premium shafts as standard – Kuro Kage Black Dual Core, Tensei AV Series Blue, HZRDUS Smoke Black and Even Flow T1100 White, plus a range of other shaft options.

£120 PER CLUB (STEEL) £135 (GRAPHITE) GOLF.MIZUNOEUROPE.COM Mizuno’s new range of JPX919 irons comprises Tour, Hot Metal and Forged models, each of which is engineered from different base materials to help enhance shot making for particular swing types.

Forged from a single billet of mild carbon steel, the Tour irons boasts the compact look that better player’s demand, with the top edge narrowed by 10% compared to its predecessor to match the grinds most commonly requested on tour. Despite this, it offers surprising stability for a compact players’ iron, delivering tight distance patterns on off-centre strikes courtesy of a frame that is open at the heel portion to enhance stability and launch.

The Forged irons are grain flow forged from pure select mild carbon steel with just a trace of Boron to make it 30% stronger and enable greater design possibilities in a forged head. It boasts a new reverse-milled clubface, which is CNC-milled from the sole up to create a larger area of minimum face thickness, and makes it the fastest ever forged iron in terms of measured ball speed.

The Hot Metal irons are designed to offer the perfect blend of ball speed and controllable flight. The use of high-strength steel has enabled Mizuno’s designers to construct a multi-thickness face that promotes high ball speeds, while a seamless one-piece cup face construction ensures generous levels of feedback. It shares the Tour iron’s new stability frame, which is open at the heel portion to enhance stability, launch and a loft-appropriate flight apex for controlled, soft-landing approaches. Re-engineered ‘sound ribs’ have been developed to hit specific vibration patterns that ensure a satisfying sensation through impact.

The JPX919 Tour (3-PW, RH only) and the JPX919 Forged (4-PW, RH & LH) both have an RRP of £135 per iron, while the JPX919 Hot Metal (4-LW, RH & LH) has an RRP of £120 per iron.

BOLLÉ BOLT V3 SUNGLASSES £140, BOLLE.COM Catch the action in Paris in all its photochromic glory with a pair of Bolle’s Ryder Cup-themed Bolt sunglasses, which have been styled up in European colours. The V3 golf lenses are built from impact-resistant Trivex, which offers glass-like clarity, while they also utilise Modulator technology, which lightens and darkens to adapt to the changing conditions. A hydrophobic outer coating ensures water drops don’t form on the lens, while an anti-fog inner coating prevents moisture build up. Lightweight, with comfortable wraparound arms that prevent slippage, they are available with standard or prescription lenses with a blue (large) or white (small) frame.

SKYCADDIE SX500 GPS

SRIXON SOFT FEEL & ULTISOFT £24 PER DOZEN, SRIXON.CO.UK Srixon has rolled out new versions of its popular two-piece Soft Feel, Soft Feel Lady and UltiSoft golf balls, all of which focus on offering maximum feel and maximum distance at an affordable price.

Available in white and yellow, as well as a Soft Feel Lady model in white or pink, the sixth generation of the Soft Feel boasts a soft, thin cover, innovative core and upgraded dimple pattern, all of which combine to deliver all-around performance from tee-to-green.

Srixon’s Energetic Gradient Growth Core produces a high-launching, low spinning trajectory off the tee for added distance; while the softer, thinner cover promotes more greenside spin and a softer feel on pitches, chips and putts. The 338 Speed Dimple pattern reduces drag and cuts through the wind for more accuracy and consistency on every shot.

First launched in 2016, the second iteration of the UltiSoft, Srixon’s lowest compression ball, has been updated to further enhance its soft feel, making it the ideal choice for golfers with mid-to-low swing speeds.

Among the improvements featured in the new model include a softer variable compression core, which offers high-launch and low spin trajectory off the tee for added distance and an ultra-soft feel, and a softer, thinner cover, which offers more control around the greens and a softer feel.

£379.95, SKYCADDIE.CO.UK SkyCaddie’s new SX500 is the most feature-packed handheld GPS device that the company has ever produced.

Pre-loaded with more than 35,000 ground-verified course maps, it features a five-inch, full-colour touch screen on the mobile-sized device that can be mounted on a trolley or slipped into a golf bag.

Along with a host of new GPS and shot-tracking features, the SX500 breaks new ground by offering a 13-megapixel camera, the photos from which can be uploaded to a SkyGolf 360 account for sharing and comparing.

Boasting a rugged, water-resistant design, the SX500’s built-in Wi-Fi enables the latest course updates to be downloaded on demand, while tried-and-tested SkyCaddie technologies, such as Dynamic HoleVue, Intelligreen Pro and Pinpoint, provide a detailed overview of every hole, while helping to measure up to 40 targets, assess the lie of the land, and home in on the allimportant flag. A handy new course management feature is Club Range, which allows you to enter your average distance with each club, so that it can suggest club choices according to your distance from hazards and the green.

Intelligent Automation provides an almost touchless experience, with course, hole advance, zoom, distance, green depth and rotating view to display your scorecard all available without having to press a single button.

[58] AUTUMN 2018

EQUIPMENT & GEAR GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

EQUIPMENT NEWS

THE GEAR EFFECT INSIDES THE BAGS OF RECENT WINNERS ON TOUR

MOTOCADDY M3 PRO TROLLEY

RICHARD MCEVOY EUROPEAN OPEN

DRIVER: TaylorMade M4 (9.5˚) FAIRWAY WOOD: TaylorMade M4 (16.5˚) HYBRID: TaylorMade M3 (21˚) IRONS: Titleist 716 CB (4-PW) WEDGES: Titleist Vokey SM7 (52˚, 56˚) Titleist Vokey Prototype (60˚) PUTTER: Odyssey Versa 1W BALL: Titleist Pro V1x

£549.99, MOTOCADDY.COM

MOTOCADDY HAS CONTINUED the impressive evolution of its award-winning range of electric trolleys with the launch of the new M Series, which contains four new models for golfers who prefer to save their energy for playing shots rather than hauling their golf bags around.

Space is at a premium in everyone’s lives these days, especially in most golfers’ over-crowded garages and garden sheds, so first up it was impressive to see that the footprint of the M3 Pro, as with the other three models – the M1, M1 DHC and M5 Connect – has been reduced by just over 10 per cent on the S Series. It also features a built-in stand, which enables it to be stored upright, saving even more space.

The trolley itself is neatly constructed, and boasts the smallest chassis unit I’ve ever seen on a power trolley. The lime colour trim gives it a sporty look, while the key components have a solid, well-made feel to them.

The rubber dual-handle grip, which is heightadjustable, is especially comfortable, while the power dial and buttons are all within easy reach and straightforward to operate.

Erecting and collapsing the trolley takes a few minutes to master, with various lime-coloured handles to unlock and lock, but once you’ve done it a few times, it soon becomes second nature. The front wheel automatically folds neatly under the chassis, which is a nice design touch, and it’s an easy-to-

carry unit when folded up.

The wide wheels are simple to attach and detach, and are clearly marked ‘L’ and ‘R’ to ensure they correctly engage with the drive shaft. I think I would prefer a less ‘plasticky’ tyre, although that seems to be the industry standard these days and is clearly more durable than rubber.

Other useful design features include Motocaddy’s

Easilock bag-to-trolley connection system, which removes the need for a lower bag strap if you have a Motocaddy bag, although it has one anyway in case you’re using another brand. There’s also an added security measure with a pin code required to unlock the bag from the trolley.

The handle unit features a small digital display screen, which offers battery life, the time, and shows distance measurements for drive, round and life, as well as a six-step distance control function

for when you want to send the trolley on ahead.

There’s a USB charging port for phones and GPS units, and the screen will display notifications for missed calls, text messages, emails or a range of app alerts.

The speed dial offers nine settings, with the ‘6’ setting offering my kind of comfortable walking pace on a flat surface. Powering up to 8 or 9 was required on uphill sections, but it proved easily up to the task, even with a heavy tour bag on board (and probably more than 14 clubs).

That effortless power is down to the new 28V lithium battery, which is not only appreciably smaller and narrower than most other lithium batteries (although it is much deeper), but is also more powerful, with even the standard model I tested managing 36 holes with ease on a single charge. The increased capacity also means that the battery doesn’t have to work so hard to get the same power to the wheels, so that it will extend the life of the battery in the short- and long-term.

All told, the M3 Pro is a luxurious limousine of a carriage for your clubs, and represents a significant upgrade on what came before.

The Motocaddy M3 Pro is available with a black or white frame with a lime trim. RRPs: £549.99 (Std Lithium) and £599.99 (Extd Lithium).

GEORGIA HALL

WOMEN’S BRITISH OPEN DRIVER: Callaway GBB Epic FAIRWAY WOOD: Callaway Rogue IRONS: Callaway Apex CF 16 (3,4) Callaway X Forged (5-PW) WEDGES: Callaway Mack Daddy 4 (50˚, 54˚, 58˚) PUTTER: Odyssey White Hot RX Rossie BALL: Titleist Pro V1

BRANDT SNEDEKER

WYNDHAM CHAMPIONSHIP DRIVER: Bridgestone Tour B JGR (9.5˚) FAIRWAY WOODS: TaylorMade M3 (15˚, 19˚) IRONS: Bridgestone J15CB (4-9) WEDGES: Bridgestone J40 (48˚), Bridgestone J15 (52˚, 56˚), Titleist Vokey TVD Prototype (60˚) PUTTER: Odyssey White Hot XG Rossie BALL: Bridgestone Tour BX

BRYSON DECHAMBEAU NORTHERN TRUST OPEN & DELL TECHNOLOGIES CHAMPIONSHIP

DRIVER: Cobra King LTD Pro (8.5°) FAIRWAY WOODS: Cobra King LTD 3/4 (14.5°), Cobra King F8+ Baffler (17.5°) IRONS: Cobra King Utility (4,5), Cobra King Forged One Length (6-PW) WEDGES: Cobra King V (50°), King WideLow (55°, 60°) PUTTER: SIK blade BALL: Bridgestone Tour BX

PAUL WARING

NORDEA MASTERS DRIVER: TaylorMade 2017 M2 (9.5˚) FAIRWAY WOOD: Titleist 917 F2 (15˚) IRONS: Wilson Staff C300 Forged (3), Wilson Staff V4 (4-8, PW,) Wilson Staff V6 (9) WEDGES: Wilson Staff PMP (48°), Titleist Vokey SM6 (54˚, 60˚) PUTTER: Kramski HPP 326 TP BALL: Titleist Pro V1x

ANDREA PAVAN

ECCO ADDS NEW COLOUR OPTIONS FOR BIOM HYBRID 3 ECCO GOLF has unveiled several additions to its Biom Hybrid 3 range, with the Gore-Tex waterproof design now available in a range of new colour combinations for the autumn/winter season.

First launched just over 12 months ago, the Biom Hybrid 3 features a groundbreaking outsole which boasts three different zones to enhance stability, durability and rotational support.

The zonal structure is made from ultra-durable T.PU, enabling the shoes to be worn on and off course without affecting long-term performance. It also features a durability region in the heel where shoes can be prone to wearing. The uppers are made from soft, yet hardwearing Yak leather, which also offers high levels of breathability, while Gore-Tex waterproof protection is guaranteed for three years.

The new colour options are Wild Dove (Racer Yak leather), Ombre (Antelope Yak leather) and Camel (Antelope Yak leather). They are also available in black/ silver; white/black; concrete/scarlet; white/kiwi; black/ blue; and white/silver, in sizes 6.5-12.5.

The lace model has an RRP of £190, while it is also offered with a BOA closure for £205.

D+D CZECH MASTERS DRIVER: Callaway Rogue Sub Zero (9˚) FAIRWAY WOOD: Callaway GBB Epic Sub Zero (13.5˚) UTILITY: Callaway X Forged UT (18°) IRONS: Callaway X Forged ’18 (3-PW) WEDGES: Callaway Mack Daddy Forged (52° & 58°) PUTTER: Odyssey White Hot Pro V-Line BALL: Callaway Chrome Soft X

MATT WALLACE

MADE IN DENMARK DRIVER: Ping G400 LST (8.5˚) FAIRWAY WOODS: Ping G400 (14.5˚, 17.5˚) IRONS: Ping I-210 (3-5), Ping iBlade (6-9) WEDGES: Ping Glide 2.0 Stealth (46˚), Ping Glide Forged (52˚ 58˚) PUTTER: Ping Sigma G Derby BALL: Titleist Pro V1x

MATT FITZPATRICK EUROPEAN MASTERS

DRIVER: TaylorMade M2 (10.5˚) FAIRWAY WOODS: Ping G25 3 (15˚), Ping G400 7 (21˚) IRONS: Ping i25 (3-5), Ping S55 (6-9) WEDGES: Ping Tour Gorge (47˚), Titleist SM5 (54˚ 58˚) PUTTER: Yes G Groove Tracy II BALL: Titleist Pro V1x

EQUIPMENT & GEAR AUTUMN 2018 [59] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

LYNX LOOKS TO THE FUTURE

Nick Bayly talks to Lynx Golf’s chief executive Stephanie Zinser about the challenges and advantages of being one of the few British-owned golf brands

W

hat makes Lynx distinctive as a golf brand?

Lynx is still one of the five most famous golf brands of all time, and we are passionate about it continuing to be so. We haven’t set out to be different for the sake of it, but we aim to take a fresh approach, and to do everything to the best of our ability, whether it’s creating high-performance clubs, having good-looking designs and colours in our equipment, or offering superior customer service and rapid custom-fit. We like to take something ordinary and ask ourselves ‘How can we change this to really makes a positive difference to the customer?' We like to think of ourselves as ‘nicely maverick’.

■ OOUL'S EYE-CATCHING RANGE OF GOLF BAGS IS NOW BEING DISTRIBUTED BY LYNX

ALTHOUGH ITS USE OF SINGLEUSE PLASTICS MIGHT NOT BE AS OBVIOUS AS IN OTHER INDUSTRIES, THERE ARE SUPS ALL ALONG THE SUPPLY CHAIN. AT LYNX GOLF WE ARE DETERMINED TO REMOVE THEM

What have been the most popular products in the current Lynx line up and how has the range generally been received by the golfing public?

We’ve had massive interest in the VT irons, as they perform so superbly, although all the range has been selling, and the entry-level Predator, Crystal and Junior lines are also enjoying great uptake by the playing public. We are delighted, as we want to support all golfers of all abilities with quality kit.

What can we expect from Lynx in 2019?

Our growth is on a lovely trajectory and this continues, now enhanced by our going global and entering into markets across the globe – USA, China, South America and wider Europe. We have some phenomenal things in the pipeline which will be revealed in due course, and lastly, our association as sole distributors of OUUL bags means we can offer even more exciting and stunning-looking products to golf enthusiasts everywhere.

and the damage they are having on the environment. The golf equipment business is not unique. Although its use of single-use plastics might not be as obvious as in other industries, there are SUPs all along the supply chain.

At Lynx Golf we are determined to remove them. We have implemented a number of key changes in our packaging and shipping processes, including using paper rather than polyethylene to wrap and protect our golf bags before packaging; replacing the plastic bubble wrap used to help golf bags keep their shape with recycled paper wadding; replacing plastic parcel tape with reinforced gummed paper tape; and stopping cellophane shrink wrapping all of our clubheads.

Getting rid of SUPs is not without its challenges. For example, when trying to replace the shrink-wrap on clubheads, we had sourced an alternative material which is made purely from cellulose, and which is completely biodegradable into harmless elements. However, in its current form, it’s not quite there. We will keep working on the best alternatives, but we’d rather have nothing than something that is either not really biodegradable, or that is, but doesn’t quite look good enough. We are therefore using other – greener – methods to hold the golf clubheads in place during transit and shipping, and this comes at additional cost to the business.

Our eco-friendly strategies are all about bringing like-minded people along with us on this journey, and we very much hope that our actions by going SUP-Free will encourage everyone who knows us, partners with us, and plays with us, to come along and join in the adventure.”

With Brexit just around the corner, what challenges will you face exporting your products abroad?

The Brexit issue changes from moment to moment, and it’s certainly casting a cloud in the old crystal ball! We are ready to roll with whatever punches it might throw at us, which is easier to do when you’re fleet-of-foot and imaginative, as Lynx is.

How many pro shops and retail outlets currently sell Lynx equipment?

Since taking over the brand in 2014, we are now in nearly 700 stockists. We have grown every year, and our growth is now on a highly upward trajectory, which, considering the market we are in, is no There has been a determined push over the mean achievement, and it is one that we are really last few years to get more women involved in proud of. As a company we believe that pros are ■ THE LYNX TEAM CELEBRATE LAURA the game. How successful do you think that the most important people in a golf club, and we DAVIES’S US SENIOR OPEN WIN campaign has been and what can be done to passionately want to work with them. I also think encourage more girls to take up golf? that the margins they have been offered over the last few years by some of From what I see on the ground, more and more women are indeed taking the manufacturers are nothing short of scandalous. I know a pro who had up golf. Women’s interest in sport of all kinds has picked up over the past 24 drivers and he sold 23, but had to sell the last one in order to make any few years, and, from our side, we want to offer ladies exciting, quality money. That is crazy and it is unsustainable. performance equipment to use, and for them to understand that with a partnership of both sexes running the company [me and my husband, You’ve put a large number of custom-fitting carts in clubs across the Steve], that we will always take a stand promoting women’s rights and issues UK, and set up a fitting centre at your UK headquarters in Surrey. How wherever it is appropriate to do so. We also have five daughters between us, important is custom fitting to Lynx? none of whom would let us get away with any nonsense anyway!

We believe custom fitting has become the crux of the active golf industry, and it’s vital for the club pro to recognise that this is where he or she can If you ran the R&A for a day, what would be the first three things you’d do attract back so much of the business that has previously drifted off to the to change the game or its rules? larger golf stores or the internet. Custom fitting makes a huge difference to a I think the R&A have been really trying to change many things in golf and player, as their clubs will be specifically fitted to them, their swing speed and the recent rules relaxation is a great stride forward. I’ve always said rules are a their action, and if you play with a club that feels as natural as an extension good thing for setting structure and order, but it’s the silly rules like making of your arm, you will undoubtedly perform better than with something off kids wear white socks of a certain length that need to be burned. Manners, the shelf. courtesy, consideration and turn-taking are all terrific educators, and golf is a superb sport for teaching many life-skills. We always play ‘ready golf’ You started distribution of OUUL golf bags in the UK earlier this year. because it speeds things up, and slow play is one of my bugbears, as are How is that going and do you have your eye on any other potential people on a course who refuse to let a faster group play through. I live my commercial tie-ups? life at too fast a speed to want to be held up! The third thing I’d change – OUUL is a terrific bag manufacturer and we are delighted to be working and this isn’t a specifically R&A issue – is to make golf courses more friendly with them, but our primary focus is and remains Lynx. We don’t want to to ladies by having decent forward tee positions to eliminate some of spread ourselves too thinly and risk taking our eyes off the ball. those dreadful long tee-shots over heather; oh, and a few more on-course bathrooms would help!

You’ve recently committed to getting rid of single-use plastics from your business. How hard has that been?

There is no doubt that Sir David Attenborough’s ‘Blue Planet’ TV series really To check out the latest Lynx gear, find your nearest demo day, or book a made the world sit up and think long and hard about our use of plastics custom fitting, visit www.lynxgolf.co.uk or call 01932 344074.

[60] AUTUMN 2018

EQUIPMENT & GEAR GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

EQUIPMENT NEWS CALLAWAY LAUNCHES MACK DADDY 4 ‘TACTICAL’ WEDGES CALLAWAY has added a new model to its Mack Daddy 4 range of wedges following the release of the Mack Daddy 4 Tactical wedge.

Boasting a military green ‘raw’ PVD finish, the new club’s ground-breaking look is enhanced with a black PVD face, milled black medallions, a black limited-edition True Temper Tour shaft and a Lamkin UTX grip, with contrasting green detailing.

Featuring a more compact head shape, a straighter and tighter leading edge, and slightly more offset, than the standard MD4 wedges, the Tactical wedges are made from 8620 carbon steel to deliver maximum spin and control from tight lies.

They feature the same groove-in-groove technology seen in the standard MD4 wedges.

Milled into flat parts of the face, three raised

micro-ridges, extending the length of the hitting area, with micro-grooves between the ridges, grab the ball’s cover to increase spin.

A 16-groove configuration includes an extra groove near the leading edge for added control, especially on short shots.

The Tactical wedge is available in two grind options. The S Grind features 10 degrees of bounce and features a medium-width sole with

slight chamber at the back and moderate heel relief to keep the leading edge low through impact, promoting solid contact on open-faced shots.

The X Grind offers a narrow, high-bounce crescent sole, with the low point near the front. Excellent for moderate-to-steep attack angles and medium-to-soft course conditions, it has 12° of bounce.

Available in 16 loft-bounce combinations, including six lofts - 50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58° and 60° - MD4 Tactical Wedges are offered in both right and left hand options and will be available to buy from September 21, with an RRP of £149.

THE PGA TOUR POWER LIST

■ TREY MULINAX

■ RORY MCILROY

The top ten PGA Tour players in driving distance in 2018 and the clubs they used PLAYER

AV. DRIVER DISTANCE

1. Trey Mullinax

319.7 yards

Ping G400 Max

2. Rory McIlroy

317.7 yards

TaylorMade M3 460

3. Tony Finau

316.7 yards

Ping G400 Max

4. Tom Lovelady

315.4 yards

Ping G400 Max

5. Luke List

315.1 yards

TaylorMade M4

6. Bubba Watson

313.8 yards

Ping G400 LST

7. Dustin Johnson

313.4 yards

TaylorMade M4

8. Keith Mitchell

313.1 yards

TaylorMade M1 440

9. Justin Thomas

312.4 yards

Titleist TS3

10. Gary Woodland 312.0 yards

TaylorMade M3 440

HONMA APPOINTS NEW UK FITTING SPECIALIST HONMA GOLF has appointed PGA Professional Luke Peterken as its new club fitting specialist in the UK. Peterken will provide support to the growing number of Honma stockists in the country, having joined the company from one of the UK’s leading club-fitting centres at Silvermere Golf Leisure in Surrey.

The Surrey-based professional, who graduated from the University of Birmingham in 2008, and spent seven years as the head fitter at the TaylorMade Performance Lab at Wentworth, before moving on to Silvermere.

“I’m incredibly excited to be a part of Honma Golf,” he said. “The brand provides such a premium and personal experience when it comes to club fitting, and the quality of the products is second to none.”

A nationwide club fitting tour that began in May comes to an end later this month, having proven successful at facilities such as Burham & Berrow, Royal Cinque Ports and the Wentworth Club.

Peterken is able to fit Honma’s latest range of premium drivers, irons, fairway woods, hybrids, wedges and putters from the Beres S-06, Tour World 737 and BeZeal 535 series.

EQUIPMENT & GEAR AUTUMN 2018

[61]

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

BUSHNELL GOLF: BETTER

BY DESIGN

With a constant emphasis on innovation, Bushnell has been the industry leader in high-performance sports optics for more than 65 years. And it looks set to continue its dominance in the golf market with its current range of distance-measuring devices, including the all-new Hybrid, which combines the benefits of laser and GPS technology in one handy design

GOING THE DISTANCE

BUSHNELL HYBRID

BUSHNELL PRO X2 LASER

Bushnell’s new Hybrid marries laser rangefinder and GPS capabilities to create the ultimate all-in-one distancemeasuring device. So if you’re the kind of player that needs to know instant and precise distance to the flag, the depth of the green, and yardages to a couple of other hazards in between, this is the DMD for you.

While a standard laser provides a single distance to the flag when you look through the eyepiece, this model gives you that, but also flags up the front, middle and back yardages, creating a complete picture of where the flag is in relation to the overall green.

When you look through the rangefinder, it locates the flag in an instant, and offers a reassuring jolt to let you know you’re locked on and can trust the yardage. While the GPS display on the side of the unit gives front, middle and back distances, it also pops up on the viewfinder screen, allowing you to make an instant decision.

When the flag is obscured, you have to rely on the GPS element and a pin sheet to nail down a precise number, but the two devices operate seamlessly in tandem, while each being useful in their own right.

The GPS also offers up to four hazard distances, and auto updates via Bluetooth.

The two systems draw life from different battery packs, with the GPS coming from a USB-charged battery and the rangefinder using a CR2 battery.

The unit is compact, lightweight and fits neatly into the hand, while it comes with a protective case for safe and easily accessible storage.

The Pro X2 is the newest laser-only model in Bushnell’s range and is aimed at those golfers who want fast and accurate distances to specific points on the golf course.

Headlining the host of features is Bushnell’s innovative Slope-Switch Technology, which allows the user to toggle between normal and slope-adjusted distances simply by moving the Pro X2 logo on the side up or down. It’s worth noting that a change to the rules of golf in 2016 allowed laser rangefinders with slope capability to be used in competitions, providing that the function is disabled.

Boasting a range of up to 1,300 yards, the X2 vibrates to let you know that you’ve locked onto the intended target for distances up to 450 yards away – ideal for picking out the flag on all but the longest par fours, providing you have a clear sight of the green – while it will also pick up banks of bunkers and trees beyond the fairway with ease. Distances up to 125 yards are measured in 1/10th of a yard for even greater accuracy.

The units on the display screen can be switched between bright red for dim conditions or black for brighter days, and the entire unit is housed in a rubber armoured metal casing which makes the device fully waterproof and shockproof, while its textured surface ensures a firm grip is maintained even in slippery conditions.

RRP: £399

RRP: £499

BUSHNELL TOUR V4 JOLT & TOUR V4 SHIFT Appreciably faster at hunting down and displaying those all-important yardages than the previous Tour V3, the Tour V4 and its slopeadjusted version, the Tour V4 Shift, is also 30% smaller, and more ergonomically designed, making it lighter and even easier to slip into your golf bag and your hand when duty calls.

Capable of measuring up to 400 yards to a flag, it features Jolt technology, which lets you know when the laser is locked onto the target via a short vibration, it also has a new Fast Focus system which enables the user to adjust the focus with the same finger you use to fire the laser.

Boasting five-times magnification, the slope-adjusted Shift model provides yardages that compensate for elevation changes. The slope technology can be removed by taking off the red element from the front of the laser, giving total peace of mind when playing in competitions.

Both models feature a battery monitor, which lets you know when you’re close to running out of power, and come with a carry case, and a two-year warranty.

For Ryder Cup fans, the Tour V4 Volt is also available in a limited edition Ryder Cup design, which features Europe’s blue-and-yellow colour scheme, and a Ryder Cup logo on the carry case.

RRP: TOUR V4 £299 RRP: TOUR V4 SHIFT £349

For more information on Bushnell’s product range, including the Ion2, Excel and Neon GPS models, visit www.bushnellgolf.eu. You can also follow Bushnell on Twitter @BushnellGolf

Thomas Disch, Bushnell Golf’s European Marketing Manager, talks about the company’s latest range of distance measuring devices and explains why the company’s new Hybrid model is a game changer for all golfers The current Bushnell range seems to cover a lot of bases, from GPS watches to lasers, and, of course, the new Hybrid. Which is proving the most popular this year in terms of units sold?

The Tour V4 laser is still our best seller, as it is a very small and efficient laser.

There are one or two other models on the market that offer both laser and GPS capabilities, so what makes Bushnell’s Hybrid stand out? Our hybrid provides instant distances to the flag, but also to the front and back of the green – this is just the information that you need on the course. Also, other than on par threes, you don’t need the distance to the flag on the tee box, so you can just look at side of the Hybrid and you will see the distance to the centre of the green.

Do you have any handicap statistics on players who buy Bushnell lasers? In the past, only good players – 10 handicap and below – used lasers, but now, thanks to Bushnell’s unique Pinseeker Jolt technology, it is very quick and easy to capture the flag. I would say that now players from all handicap levels are buying lasers.

Bushnell enjoys a long-standing history as an optics company, but was it unavoidable that it moved into the GPS market in order to remain competitive in the golf market? The GPS market used to be very big a couple of years ago, so we wanted to cover all types of golfers, from beginners to tour pros, and this the reason we launched a GPS range, but our core market remains laser users.

How are the course maps measured for Bushnell GPS devices?

And are course updates readily downloadable? Our golf courses are mapped with satellites. We offer quarterly updates which can be downloaded onto a smartphone via Bluetooth.

Have you ever conducted tests to find out the difference between the human eye and a laser when measuring distances on a golf course? A good eye is not accurate, lasers are. A good eye can be off by as much as 50 yards from 250 yards, which is around three clubs difference, while, even from 150 yards out, it is quite common for players to be 20-30 yards out, which can be the difference between missing and hitting the green. People who regularly play with lasers are lost when they forget their laser.

Where you do see the next technological leap coming from in the world of DMDs? Green reading and club selection technology are two areas where I expect to see most advances in the future.

[62] AUTUMN 2018

EQUIPMENT & GEAR GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

GRIND & GROOVE

The latest high performance wedges feature a host of new sole designs and more precise groove configurations for ultimate control around the greens

BETTINARDI H2 303 SS WEDGE

CALLAWAY MACK DADDY 4

£139, JSINT.COM Bettinardi’s H2 303 stainless steel wedge provides players with tried and tested face-milling technology transferred from the company’s putter range. The patented Honeycomb face-milling featured between each groove creates more friction between club and ball, providing a tighter spin in both wet and dry conditions to keep the ball under control, while the C-Groove sole grind makes it easier to play touch shots around the green or from sand.

It is available is six lofts between 50° and 64°, and three bounce variations (8°, 10° or 12°), and comes with a KBS HiRev Tour shaft as standard, along with the Lamkin Crossline Cord grip.

£139, CALLAWAYGOLF.EU The latest generation of Mack Daddy wedges sees a new ‘groove-in-groove’ face design that improve spin on all shots.

The raised surface roughness features three raised micro-ridges, with micro-grooves between the ridges combining to create 84 different contact points to grab the cover of the ball and create more spin. The soft carbon steel heads are slightly more compact than the previous generation, and offer a straighter, tighter leading edge, and slightly more offset. They are available with platinum chrome or matt black finishes, and four different grind options: C, S, W and a new X grind, each with generous camber from heel to toe for smooth turf interaction and solid feel.

MIZUNO S18

PING GLIDE 2.0 STEALTH

CLEVELAND RTX-4 WEDGE

£140, GOLF.MIZUNOEUROPE.COM Each wedge in the S18 range boasts a unique profile, sole grind and groove depth. A rounded silhouette shape allows the forged carbon steel blade to be opened up without impacting alignment. Narrower and deeper grooves in the stronger lofts are more beneficial on full shots, while wider and shallower grooves in the higher lofts aid control on partial shots. The mid-size heads feature a loft specific centre of gravity, with weight shifted higher up the blade in the more lofted wedges via a thicker beveled topline. This creates more consistent spin on strikes hit high on the face. Milled grooves are infused with boron to enhance durability. Available from 46˚ to 62˚ in black or chrome, each wedge can be custom stamped.

£130/£140 (ST/GR), PINGGOLF.COM Ping’s Glide 2.0 Stealth wedges are made from soft carbon steel and feature precision-milled grooves to deliver a softer feel and higher-spinning shots for greater control. A milled half groove near the leading edge on the 56⁰, 58⁰ and 60⁰ improves engagement on shots hit low on the face. They are available in four sole grinds (SS, WS, ES and TS). The TS offers a thin sole, lowbounce option in the higher lofts; SS, is a standard sole offering mid-bounce in every loft; WS is a wider-soled, high-bounce option in the higher lofts; and the Eye Sole offers an 8˚ bounce option from 54˚-60˚. The Stealth finish reduces glare, while they are also offered in a hydropearl chrome finish, which repels water, producing better control from different lies in wet conditions.

£129, CLEVELANDGOLF.COM The RTX 4 wedges feature the latest face technologies, tourpreferred shaping, expanded grind offerings and the most popular components to create the Cleveland's most ‘tourauthentic’ wedge. It features a more compact blade shape, with less offset and a smaller overall profile to provide that classic blade design that tour players prefer. The latest generation of Rotex Face technology and Tour Zip grooves ensures more spin and more control, while four new sole grinds – Full, Mid, Low and an all-new XLOW grind – enable precision shots to be played by all swing types and in all ground conditions. They are available in Tour Satin, Black Satin and Tour Raw finishes in lofts from 46˚ to 64˚ .

TAYLORMADE MILLED GRIND

TITLEIST VOKEY DESIGN SM7

WILSON STAFF PMP WEDGE

£139, TAYLORMADEGOLF.EU Hand ground from soft carbon steel, each leading edge, sole grind and scoreline in the Milled Grind range is individually milled to extremely tight tolerances. This process reproduces the master design of the surfaces that have most impact on performance. The standard MG range is offered in seven lofts from 48-60 degrees, while there is also a new Hi Toe range in the 58°, 60° and 64° lofts which features enhanced toe and heel relief, and a higher centre of gravity, which launches the ball lower, while generating more spin.

The standard wedges are available in three bounce options – low, standard and high – with low offering the least amount of ground resistance, and the standard being the most versatile.

£159, TITLEIST.CO.UK The Spin Milled range offers a new sole grind – D – which, when combined with the five other grind options – F, S, M, K and L – enables golfers to be more precisely fit for their swing type, shot-making style, and course conditions. The D grind, which comes with 12˚ of bounce, is offered in the 58˚ and 60˚ models and is designed to make it easier to get out of bunkers, as well as being more forgiving on full shots. Each boasts a progressive centre of gravity to improve trajectory and distance control, while spin has been enhanced by cutting the milled grooves to tighter tolerances. They are available in chrome, steel and jet black finishes.

£99, WILSONSTAFF.COM Wilson’s latest range of Precision Milled Performance wedges is based on the soft carbon steel used on its FG Tour V6 irons.

It incorporates the same head shape as the existing Oil Can and Tour Frosted PMP models, but since the raw version is not plated it will rust over time, which produces a softer feel and more spin, while reducing glare.

The milled face includes maximum volume grooves for spin on full shots, while laser etched micro grooves increase spin and control on partial shots. Three sole designs – traditional, tour grind and wide – offer up to 97 loft, lie and bounce variables through custom fitting.

AUTUMN 2018 | WWW.GOLFNEWS.CO.UK/TRAVEL

CAPITAL CHOICE

ENJOY THE BEST OF LISBON WITH A LUXURY GASTRO GOLF BREAK

â– PENA PALACE, SINTRA, PORTUGAL

CLASSY KORINEUM TEE OFF UNDER SUNNY CYPRIOT SKIES KIAWAH ISLAND

BY NUMBERS ME & MY TRAVELS WITH BRIAN McFADDEN

TheManor House

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&

at The UK’s Largest Golf Resort

Ashbury

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Kigbeare 15th 415 yards, Par 4

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Range Activities

28 Snooker Tables

Hydro Spas

3 Swimming Pools

18 Tutored Crafts

NEW At Ashbury!

Water Slides

TRAVEL & BREAKS

AUTUMN 2018 [65]

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

TRAVEL BREAKS HOME IN ON HANBURY WITH GOLF ESCAPES SUSSEX-BASED golf travel company Golf Escapes has quickly built up relationships with a host of top quality resorts, hotels and golf clubs throughout the country, and is able to offer a extremely competitive rates for range of bespoke breaks to golfers, whether they be travelling as a twoball, or as part of a much larger group or society.

And groups of at least 12 ensure that one player goes free.

The Marriott hotel group has built up an enviable portfolio of properties throughout the UK, and golfers can take their choice from

Hanbury Manor, Tudor Park and Lingfield, Meon Valley and the Forest of Arden, to name but a few. A one-night stay with two rounds of golf at Hanbury Manor, venue for the European Senior Tour’s Willow Classic, costs just £139pp for Sunday night stays, while two nights and two rounds at Forest of Arden, which boasts two 18-hole championship courses costs from £109pp.

There are also savings to be had on breaks to the recently-opened Boundary Lakes Course in Hampshire, where £105pp will secure you an overnight stay in the Hilton at the Ageas

GOLFING DELIGHTS AWAIT AT DORSET RESORT THE DORSET GOLF RESORT in Bere Regis, which is celebrating its 40th year in business this year, has long held a reputation for being a top quality golf break destination, thanks to its 27 holes of championship golf spread across its acclaimed Lakeland, Parkland and Woodland Courses, combined with its wide range of five-star accommodation.

The choice of quality accommodation, which includes 14 five-star eco lodge homes, two luxury cottages, and a 16-bedroom hotel, has been attracting stay-and-play golfers for many years, while the condition of the golf courses, and superb catering and hospitality, is clearly a winning combination for visitors, with the resort boasting a 65 per cent repeat booking rate.

The Woodland Course is cut through

Bowl and two rounds of golf for breaks taken between October 1-31.

The 171-bedroom hotel houses Boundary Lakes’ state-of-the-art clubhouse and American Golf pro shop, as well as a luxury spa, Sir Ian Botham-inspired restaurant, Beef’s, and the Lakeview Sports Bar, which overlooks the 18th hole.

For the latest UK & Ireland golf break deals, and for golf holidays throughout Europe, North America, South Africa and the Far East, visit www.golfescapes.com or call 01342 811777.

YGT GOES ‘THE EXTRA YARD’ FOR GOLF HOLIDAY SAVINGS YOUR GOLF TRAVEL has teamed up with a host of partners to offer customers booking 2019 holidays great value add-ons with their golfing holiday.

Throughout September, a selection of free room upgrades, free buggies, unlimited golf, and food and beverage discounts will be made available to the company’s customers for venues across the UK, Europe and the rest of the world.

“At Your Golf Travel we strive to deliver the best possible experience for customers on golfing holidays to some 3,000 destinations in 22 countries across the world,” said Your Golf Travel CEO Ross Marshall. “We’ve listened to our customers and have worked closely with brand ambassador Lee Westwood to ensure we go ‘The Extra Yard’ for them.”

He added: “We are excited to have sourced value add-ons at venues across the UK, through Spain, Turkey, France, Morocco and even Mauritius, Abu Dhabi and the Dominican Republic.”

To take advantage of the ‘Extra Yard’ offers, which available until September 30, visit www. yourgolftravel.com/the-extrayard or call 0800 043 6644.

a forest of rhododendrons, and boasts banks of pink, red and purple flowers, sparking thoughts of Augusta. The Lakeland and Parkland nine are also blessed with flourishes of rhododendron and cherry blossom, and the views across the huge lakes are spectacular.

Ideally located to explore Poole and Bournemouth, as well as the wilder parts of the Jurassic Coast, there plenty to do within just a few miles of the resort, including, clay pigeon shooting, Bovington Tank Museum and Monkey World.

Stay-and-play packages in the Golf Hotel this autumn start from £71.95pp/pn, with dinner, breakfast and all golf included, while luxury lodge breaks start from £73.95pp/pn, with a minimum stay of two nights.

Discover championship links style golf at Fairmont St Andrews. Two world-class courses, the Torrance and the Kittocks, that wind their way around 520 stunning acres of utterly breath-taking scenery. With views overlooking the historic Home of Golf and St Andrews Bay, our exquisitely presented golf resort is a naturally beautiful setting for golf experiences.

*terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability.

&

STAY

PLAY FROM

£149.00 PERPERSON*

FOR DETAILS CALL 01334 837000 EMAIL STANDREWS.SCOTLAND@FAIRMONT.COM VISIT STANDREWSBAY.COM/GOLF

TRAVEL & BREAKS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

SET SAIL FOR GOLF SOMEWHERE NEW WITH BRITTANY FERRIES IF YOU’D LIKE TO TEE OFf somewhere new next year then Brittany Ferries Golf offer a great choice of breaks throughout western France and northern Spain. Choose from fine links or beautiful park-land courses combined with stays at comfortable hotels, all an easy drive from your arrival port.

And with Brittany Ferries, getting there is very much part of the holiday, and with no luggage limitations to worry about, golfers can make the most of their precious time by crossing the channel overnight. With a fleet of luxury cruiseferries, offering en-suite cabins, fine French restaurants and stylish bars, they provide a uniquely relaxing way of travelling.

Getting to the continent couldn’tt be easier, with a

CLASSY CARROSSA OFFERS GOLFING GATEWAY TO MALLORCA

MALLORCA HAS ALWAYS had a reputation for being a top-of-the-range golfing destination in Europe and that standing is set to soar even further following the opening of the five-star Carrossa Hotel in June.

Located near the charming town of Artà, in the north east of the island, the Carrossa is the island’s newest luxury boutique retreat, and one that enjoys breathtaking views of the bay of Alcúdia and rolling hills of Llevant.

And while the converted old manor house is a haven of tranquillity, courtesy of its stunning outdoor infinity pool, state-of-the-art spa and array of treatments, as well as fine dining complete with panoramic views, the Carrossa is also the ideal base to experience the best golf courses in Mallorca.

The Carrossa enjoys a great relationship with a host of nearby clubs, offering guests a range of exclusive stay-and-play packages and discounted green fees at the likes of Alcanada, Capdepera, Canyamel, Pula and Son Servera.

Alcanada, a multi-award-winning course, is one of the most prestigious clubs on the Balearic island and the only one next to the sea. Taking its name from the lighthouse and picturesque bay, the Robert Trent Jones-Jrdesigned layout was a new entry at number 81 in the Top 100 Golf Courses of Continental Europe 2018.

Capdepera, which is less than 10 miles from the Carrossa, provides a real contrast, with the Dan Maples layout winding through both a valley and the scenic Llevant Hills, with its signature 15th hole one of the most memorable on the island.

Canyamel is a stunning 6,764-yard par-73 course that is known for high quality in a natural environment with sea views, while Pula Golf Resort was originally founded in 1995, and redesigned by José Maria Olazábal just over a decade ago. The parkland Son Servera course is a scenic 18-hole course that winds its way below a range of pine trees and mountains with beautiful views over the bay of Cala Millor.

For more details, visit www.carrossa.com.

choice of routes from Portsmouth, Poole and Plymouth to western France, as well as two to northern Spain, Bilbao and Santander.

Sample packages include magical Dinan in Brittany, which includes one night on board in a cabin; two nights’ B&B at the Hotel Mercure Dinan Port; and three rounds of golf (Dinard, Des Ormes and Granville), from only￡354 per person based on four travelling and sharing twin hotel rooms. Sailings are from Portsmouth to St Malo, with return trips from Caen or Cherbourg to Portsmouth or Poole.

What’s more, book by 31 October and save up to 10%.

For more information, visit www.brittanyferries.com/golf, call 0330 159 5418 or email golfdesk@brittanyferries.com.

AUTUMN 2018

[67]

[68] AUTUMN 2018

TRAVEL & BREAKS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ 17TH GREEN

PARADISE FOUND AT

CYPRUS KORINEUM

If you’re looking for a winter golf break under warm Mediterranean skies, then Korineum Golf & Beach Resort in Northern Cyprus offers five-star facilities and service on and off the course, all at affordable rates

N

orthern Cyprus has always been a popular holiday destination with UK travellers, but an absence of world-class golf facilities prevented it from becoming a destination for British golfers, until, that is, the arrival of the Korineum Golf & Beach Resort in 2007.

Located in a lush green oasis on the way to Esentepe, Korineum is tucked away in the foothills of the Beşparmak Mountain Range and enjoys the prestige of being north Cyprus’s first championship-standard golf facility, ranking 36th in Golf World’s Top 100 European Golf Resorts.

■ AN ELITE ROOM AT THE KORINEUM RESORT

The entire landscape has been shaped and sculpted to perfection and features an 18-hole, 6,232-metre championship layout, a three-hole academy course, and a 34-bay driving range.

■ KORINEUM'S CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE ENJOYS FABULOUS VIEWS TO THE BESPARNAK MOUNTAIN RANGE

■ KORINEUM'S CLUBHOUSE

The course has been laid with a special type of genetically-engineered grass called Seashore Paspalum, which is designed to withstand the hot Cyprus climate and ensures perfect year-round playing conditions.

Five tees give players of all abilities the opportunity to play to their handicap on this challenging 6,232-metre layout – although with narrow fairways and vast canyons, it’s well worth stocking up with plenty of balls before you leave home or the resort’s pro shop. Players not in peak physical health are also advised to make use of the large buggy fleet and save their energy for playing shots and for absorbing the stunning natural beauty of the moutains and sea views that dominate the landscape.

The first hole, Mountain Rise, is as testing an opener as you’ll find, with the 379-metre par four climbing steeply up the hillside to an elevated green.

Precision iron-play is required to find the putting surface on the third, a testing uphill par three which measures anything from 220 yards to 140, depending which tee you play from. With out-of-bounds left, right-handers will need to draw one in over the bunkers to find the long, but narrow green.

The fifth is a dramatic uphill par five with a 90-degree dogleg at its elbow. The bold can try and cut off some of the leg by playing over the out-of-bounds on the left to leave a shorter shot into the green, but most will

chose to play safely up the middle and then hope to chip on with their third and attempt a single-putt birdie.

The seventh, the appositely named ‘Sandy Island’, is another tough par three, with the green on this 158-metre hole almost entirely surrounded by bunkers, with no fewer than five traps protecting the putting surface.

Water is scarce in such hot climates, so it’s no surprise that it comes into play on only one hole at Korineum, with the 350-metre par-four 16th hole featuring a lake short right of the green that will happily swallow any approach shots that wander off line on this excellent two-shotter.

Off the golf course, facilties at the resort include a 86-room hotel – including four junior suites – a choice of bars, three restaurants, swimming pool, live evening entertainment, spa and fitness centre, as well as a 70m private beach, which is 3km from the resort, but is free for hotel guests to use.

The rooms are spacious, and feature wellstocked minibar, LED televisions with a wide range of international channels and free WiFI, although those guests with sea views will spend most of their evenings taking in the glorious sunsets that can be viewed from the balcony, rather than tuning into the world news.

For details on the latest golf packages to Korineum Golf & Beach Resort, visit www.korineumgolf.com.

H E R E , T H E SA N D I S THE

BEST PLACE TO BE.

LEGENDARY COURSES. SUPERIOR HOSPITALITY. Golf was played in Charleston more than 100 years before the United States even became a country.

The legendary 1991 Ryder Cup, deemed the “War by the Shore”, was contested at the famed Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, as was the 2012 PGA Championship. Now the stage is set for the PGA Championship to return to the Ocean Course in 2021.

Learn more about playing any of the 20 championship courses in the Charleston area, by visiting EnjoyCharlestonGolf.com.

Find Great Rates at EnjoyCharlestonGolf.com

[70] AUTUMN 2018

TRAVEL & BREAKS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

ENJOY A TASTE OF LISBON WITH GASTRO GOLF

â– AROEIRA

Bespoke golf travel company Gastro Golf has teamed up with the Lisbon Tourist Board and Lisboa Golf Coast to offer a selection of tailor-made packages to experience some of the best golf courses and resorts in the region, along with a range of superb culinary and cultural experiences, to create a golf holiday that you’ll never forget

W

hile the Algarve has been a perennial favourite destination with UK golfers since the 1960s, it is the area around Lisbon that has seen the biggest growth in Portuguese tourism in recent years, with over 100,000 Brits flocking each year to play its 20-plus courses, all of which are located within an hour’s drive of Europe’s westernmost capital.

While the Lisbon area might not quite be able to match the Algarve in terms of quantity, there is unquestionably plenty of quality on offer. The region can be divided into three distinct areas. The Silver Coast, to the north west of Lisbon, is where you’ll find the likes of Bom Successo, Royal Obidos, Praia d’El Rey and the recently opened West Cliffs. The central area, around Cascais and Sintra, is home to favourites such as Quinta da Marinha, Penha Longa and Oitavos Dunes, while to south of the River Tagus you’ll find the Blue Coast, where the courses at Aroieira, Quinta do Peru, Ribagolfe, Oeiras and Santo Estevão await.

Awarded the title of European Golf Destination of the Year by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators for the third time in 2016, Lisbon’s Golf Coast not only boasts a wide variety of quality courses, but also offers affordable green fees, a year-round mild climate, and easy access to the attractions of the city.

AROEIRA Arguably the showpiece venue in the Costa Azul region, Aroeira is tucked away in a 900-acre private estate close to the coastal town of Caparica. Its two championship layouts, Aroeira I and II, cut a swathe through a dense pine forest and whose fairways are lined by a significant number of luxury villas.

Designed by Frank Pennink, Aroeira I was christened the ‘Wentworth of Lisbon’ when it first opened in 1972, and it is easy to see why. Tall avenues of pine trees flank the fairways and the course is surrounded by wildlife and nature.

The course demands accuracy and thoughtful placement off the tee in order to score well on the 6,650-yard track, while several large ponds add to the difficulty of the challenge.

Aroeira II, which was designed by Donald Steel and opened in 2000, is a much flatter course, but is no less demanding. Measuring just under 7,000 yards from the back tees, water comes into play on no fewer than nine holes, and there are many pot bunkers and large, undulating greens to negotiate.

For more details, visit www.gastrogolf.co.uk/tour-item/aroeira

LISBON SPORTS CLUB Founded in 1922, Lisbon Sports Club is one of the oldest golf clubs in Europe. Originally built by Fred Hawtree as a nine-hole course for British railway workers, it only became an 18-hole layout in 1992, when the final four holes were completed.

Situated amid rolling hills and valleys, the par-69 course is relatively short, at just 5,520 yards, but the natural layout of the land makes it

more difficult than it appears on paper. The course comprises six par threes and three par fives, while four of the par fours measure less than 330 yards. Tree-lined fairways nestle in the valley, where raised tees and elevated greens characterise many of the holes in a wonderfully natural setting.

For details, visit www.gastrogolf.co.uk/tour-item/lisbon-golf-coastexcursion

■PRAIA D’EL REY

OITAVOS DUNES Providing a hybrid experience of both links and woodland golf, Oitavos Dunes enjoys one of the most dramatic settings on the Lisbon Coast, with magnificent views of the Sintra Mountains, the Atlantic Ocean and Cabo da Roca.

Kicking off with six tree-lined holes, the 6,933-yard course then opens up dramatically into the dunes for 10 holes, before returning to the woods for the final two. On paper it sounds like it shouldn’t work, but in reality it most certainly does. The course is largely flat, and a good walk will set you up nicely to enjoy the excellent food on offer in the stylish clubhouse.

For more details, visit www.gastrogolf.co.uk/tour-item/oitavos

QUINTA DA MARINHA RESORT Quinta da Marinha consists of fabulous undulating fairways and picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Sintra Mountains, with a back nine that follows the cliff tops of the Estoril Coast and pine forests. Plenty of water and five par fives combine to make this 6,392-yard course one that you’ll want to play again and again.

For more details, visit www.gastrogolf.co.uk/tour-item/lisbon-golf-passport

PRAIA D’EL REY Voted one of the best courses in Portugal by Golf World in 2004, this course is a game of two halves - the front nine being parkland, as it runs in an out of pine trees, and the back nine offering some of the best links golf you'll find anywhere in Europe. Atlantic Ocean views on 13, 14, and 15 only add to superb golfing experience.

For more details, visit www.gastrogolf.co.uk/tour-item/praia-del-rey

TROIA GOLF RESORT Take the ferry from SetĂşbal to discover the Troia Peninsula, a long flat, sandy stretch of land across the Sado Estuary with a dramatic backdrop of the Arrabida mountain range.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Snr, Troia Golf’s magnificent course is a challenging, and unforgettable experience. Featuring Jones’ trademark bold bunkering, raised greens and some tricky dog-legs, the course sweeps between pine trees, while offering tantalising glimpses of the sea, most notably at the par-four third hole, where the views are breathtaking.

For more details, visit www.gastrogolf.co.uk/tour-item/troia-aqualuz

â– TROIA

PLACES TO VISIT LISBON – THE CITY OF SEVEN HILLS

A two-and-a-half hour flight from the UK takes you into the heart of Lisbon, where its Portela international airport is located surprisingly close to the red-tilled rooftops that dominate the historic city’s skyline.

Located at the mouth of the River Targus, Lisbon is connected to the south by two iconic bridges, the 25th April and the Vasco da Gama.

The former is often compared to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and is overlooked by one of city’s most famous landmarks – Cristo Rei – a 260ft statue of Christ, similar to the one found in Rio de Janeiro.

The city is very walkable, although with it known as The City of Seven Hills, it’s advisable to make use of the extensive tram system or take a ride on one of the many three-wheel tuktuk taxis. Don’t miss a tour around St George’s Castle, which overlooks the whole city, while the streets of the trendy Chiado district will find yourself amid beautiful boutiques and a mix of bohemian cafÊs and bars, where a glass of Ginjinha – a sweet cherry liqueur – will set you up for an evening of listening to famous Fado singers in a local restaurant.

SINTRA

â– LISBON SPORTS CLUB

â– OITAVOS GOLF

Declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, and described by Lord Byron as ‘this glorious Eden’, Sintra is not a large town, but its charm demands at least a brief visit in between rounds of golf. Don’t

miss a tour of the Pena Palace, a former royal summer residence whose mixture of architectural styles will amaze and surprise, while the region’s Moorish influences can be seen most impressively at the Castelo dos Mouros, which can trace its history back to the 10th century.

CASCAIS

The historic and beautiful coastal town of Cascais lies on the Estoril coast, just 30 minutes from Lisbon.

The pretty harbour town boasts a yacht-filled marina and lots of great fish restaurants, while its small, sandy coves are ideal for swimming and water sports.

ARRABIDA

One of the most beautiful places in Portugal, this region is dominated by the Serra de Arrabida Natural Park, a haven to rare animal species, amazing beaches and incredible landscapes, along with food and wine production. Sesimbra and Palmela castles are not to be missed, along with the array of fabulous golf courses, which blend in superbly with their surroundings.

MAKE YOUR GASTRO GOLF BOOKING NOW!

Gastro Golf specialises in creating bespoke golf holidays and excursions, and can tailor any of the sample packages featured on its website to suit your needs. To make a booking, simply visit www.gastrogolf. co.uk or call 0161 612 3319.

SAVE 20% ON ACCOMMODATION COSTS*

MAURITIUS

glorious golf

Trust your luxury holiday to the Indian Ocean specialists Magical Mauritius is a golfer’s paradise, and the best way to make the most of it is by staying at one of our superb Beachcomber golf resorts. You’ll enjoy glorious golf in truly spectacular settings, with added perks to enhance your stay, such as privileged tee-times and reduced green fees.

When its time to unwind, the island’s stunning palm-fringed beaches, crystal lagoons, verdant peaks and exotic mixture of cultures and cuisines are all waiting to be discovered. And with our exceptional luxury, idyllic beach locations, and impeccable attention to detail, you can make the most of every moment.

• Four great golf resorts • VIP access to both Paradis and Mont Choisy golf courses • Free green fees from May to September* • Outstanding all-inclusive option • Soothing spas • Luxury family options

Start planning your Mauritius golf holiday today.

Call us on 01483 445 632 or visit www.beachcombertours.uk * 20% saving applies to accommodation costs at the Beachcomber Hotels, when booked 60 days in advance and with travel by 31 October 2019. Free green fees at Paradis and Mont Choisy Golf courses apply to guests staying at the Beachcomber golf resorts listed (cart charge applies at Mont Choisy).

DINAROBIN BEACHCOMBER GOLF RESORT & SPA

PARADIS BEACHCOMBER GOLF RESORT & SPA

TROU AUX BICHES BEACHCOMBER GOLF RESORT & SPA

CANONNIER BEACHCOMBER GOLF RESORT & SPA

[72] AUTUMN 2018

TRAVEL & BREAKS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

KIAWAH ISLAND

BY NUMBERS

With five world-class courses, a wide choice of luxury accommodation, and miles of unspoilt sandy beaches, it’s no surprise that Kiawah Island in South Carolina is one of America’s leading golf holiday destinations.

16.5

The size of Kiawah Island in square miles.

The town covers a total area of 13.4 square miles, of which 82% is on dry land and 18% on water

90

The number of golf holes on offer at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, divided between five championship courses – Ocean, Turtle Point, Cougar Point, Oak Point and Osprey Point

■ THE FAMOUS 17TH ON THE OCEAN COURSE

Rory Sabbatini and Trevor Immelman took the trophy.

2021

1991

The year Kiawah Island’s Ocean Course hosted the Ryder Cup, later dubbed ‘The War on the Shore’, which USA won 14.5-13.5.

10 31 1,626

miles of pristine beach

miles of paved biking/walking trails

The number of residents on Kiawah Island

The year when Kiawah Island will next host the PGA Championship

8

750

1997

6

The numbers of shots by which Rory McIlroy won the PGA Championship at Kiawah in 2012.

The year that the Ocean Course first hosted the World Cup of Golf, which was won by Ireland, represented by Padraig Harrington and Paul McGinley. The tournament returned in 2003, when South Africa’s team of

Alligators estimated on the island (more per square km than the Everglades)

Litres of water consumed by the average Ocean Course caddie during a day’s work

1699

The year that British sailor George Raynor, a pirate captain,

■ THE OCEAN COURSE HAS A STUNNING SETTING

settled on the island

1801

35 60

Number of bobcats resident on the island

The year of construction of the oldest house on the island, the original seat of the Vanderhorst Plantation

1976

The average temperature (centigrade) during the winter on the island

The year the island's first hotel, the Kiawah Island Inn, opened its doors. The Cougar Point Golf Course, designed by Gary Player, also opened that same year

2

Pairs of nesting bald eagles resident on Kiawah Island

5

The number of Forbes Travel Guide stars earned by The Sanctuary hotel and spa

For details on the latest golf holiday packages to Kiawah Island Resort, visit www.kiawahresort.com.

TASTE THE BEST OF BORDEAUX WITH GREENS & GRAPES GOLFERS WITH A LOVE of fine wine and top-class links are being invited to experience the best of both of these worlds following the launch of a Bordeaux-based travel agency that aims to introduce the golfing and wineorientated pleasures that are on tap in the south-west of France.

Greens & Grapes is run by well-travelled husband-and-wife team Lucius and Sylvie McPhilemy, who hail from Ireland and France respectively, but now live in Bordeaux.

Lucius is the golf nut, with expertise on the clubs and courses in the region, while Frenchborn Sylvie has the specialist local knowledge, and together their extensive network of connections in the golf and wine world gives them the ability to provide visiting golfers with a truly unique golf holiday proposition.

Green & Grapes offers a wide range

■ GOLF DU MEDOC IN BORDEAUX

of bespoke ‘all-in-one’ golf, wine and gastronomy packages, with all of the golf courses, restaurants and wineries having been personally visited and tested to ensure they meet the McPhilemy’s own high standards.

Green & Grapes can take care of guests’ every need, from a meet-and-greet service at the airport to a full chauffeuring service; hotel and golf courses transfers, golf club rentals, and tee bookings on a range of courses, including such top-rated tracks as Golf du Medoc, Moliets, Hossegor, Biarritz

■ THE VINEYARDS OF ST EMILION

and Grand Saint-Emilionnais.

Wine buffs will enjoy meeting some of Bordeaux’s leading wine producers, and tasting the latest vintages in the region’s finest chateaux, while guests will even have the chance to blend their own wines, while chatting to the people who make the magic happen.

Guests can choose from a wide range of handpicked accommodation options, ranging from three- to five-star hotels, to selfcontained apartments and luxury chateaux accommodation. Green & Grapes can cater for

any size of group, whether family or friends, while solo travellers are also very welcome.

Sample packages include four nights’ B&B in a four-star apartment in Bordeaux, with golf at three courses in the area, and wine tastings in the Medoc and Saint-Emilion, from €528 per person.

Three nights in the five-star Bordeaux Le Grand Hotel, followed by three nights at the Hotel du Palais in Biarritz, costs from €985 per person, including rounds on five top-rated courses, wonderful three-course meals, wine

TRAVEL & BREAKS

AUTUMN 2018

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GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

SHANGRI-LA SERVES UP FIVE-STAR GOLF IN SRI LANKA GOLFERS LOOKING TO EXPERIENCE the stunning Indian Ocean island of Sri Lanka, and indulge in a bit of top-class golf amid luxurious surroundings, should consider booking a holiday to the Shangri-La’s Hambantota Resort & Spa. Sri Lanka’s first Shangri-La resort brings a slice of Asian-inspired luxury to the island’s south east coast. Set in 53 acres, the resort is built on a former coconut plantation and sits on a long stretch of sandy beach. It boasts a wide range of five-star facilities, including its very own 18-hole golf course.

The beautifully-landscaped par70 course, which was designed by American architect Rodney Wright, takes golfers on a journey through three landscaped zones: the Coconut Plantation, offering lush fairways and challenging bunkers; the Dune Area, with subtle elevation changes and breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean; and the Sapphire Mine, showcasing generous greens with an abundance of water features.

The resort offers 300 rooms, which are set across four levels and divided into family and adults-only areas, with accommodation split between deluxe rooms, which overlook the resort’s tropical gardens; premier rooms, which have golf course, lagoon or ocean views; while spacious suites boast separate lounges.

Guests are spoilt for choice when it comes to wining and dining too, with the main restaurant, Bojunhala, offering all-day dining and showcasing the very best of Sri Lankan cuisine, while Sera takes it inspiration for the streetfood stalls found all over south east Asia, where the food is cooked in front of the guests. The final venue is Ulpatha Restaurant & Bar, which specialises in steaks. There is also

a snack bar, clubhouse and two bars, including the candlelit Gimunhala Lounge Bar, where tapas, shisha and teas are served as the sun goes down.

For pampering and relaxation, the resort offers Chi, an Ayurvedic spa, where guests can avail themselves of the latest therapeutic treatments and beauty salon services, while younger guests are well catered for

with a kids’ club, three swimming pools, a water park with slides, and a 23ft-high trapeze and trampoline.

Stay-and-play packages start from just £150 per night, based on two people

sharing a twin or double room, including a daily buffet breakfast, and free daily green fees for two players.

For more details, visit www.stsports.com

For one looking to drive somewhere different

Save 10% on Golf Breaks in France or northern Spain As autumn approaches, now’s the time to start planning your 2019 golf break.

With Brittany Ferries Golf you can play fine links or beautifulpark-land courses, tastings and a complimentary concierge service.

For more information, visit www. greensandgrapes.com/golfnewsRC and order a free digital copy of Greens & Grapes’ Golf & Gourmet Guide.

For bookings, email sylvie@ greensandgrapes.com, or call 00 33 (0) 672714897. Golf News readers who make a booking before April 30, 2019 will receive a free wine tasting as part of their package.

staying at comfortable hotels – and all an easy drive from our arrival ports in France or Northern Spain.

Our Golf Desk team will look after the travel, hotel and tee-time arrangements – all you have to do is pack you clubs in the car and enjoy your break!

Call 0330 159 5418 email golfdesk@brittanyferries.com or visit brittanyferries.com/golf

* Subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply - see website for details.

Why choose golf with Brittany Ferries?

✓ Prices include salings, golf and hotel ✓ Expert Golf Desk service ✓ Pack the clubs in the car at no extra cost ✓ Book by 31 October and save 10%*

N

EW

golf holiday experts for 23 years www.chakatravel.com travel

BRAZIL

from £3,150 PP

MAURITIUS

from £2,795 PP

Rio De Janeiro, Sao Paulo & Ignacu Falls

5* Constance Belle Mare Plage

Incl. flights, transfers plus a city tour & Iguacu Falls tour

All Inclusive supplement from £900 pp

12 nights (10 nights B&B, 2 nights Half Board) 6 rounds of golf on 5 different courses

12 nights Half Board Incl. flights, transfers & free golf

ITALY

SOUTH AFRICA

from £1,395 PP

4* Golf & Gastronomy in Emilia Romagna

7 nights Bed & Breakfast with 5 rounds of golf on 5 courses Incl. business class flights, car hire, spa & wine tasting

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

5* Casa De Campo

from £2,585 PP

7 nights All Inclusive, 5 rounds golf, shared cart & range balls Incl. flights, transfers & Pete Dye Golf Lodge room

from £2,295 PP Cape Town & Fancourt Classic Garden Route 10 nights Bed & Breakfast with 6 rounds of golf on 6 courses Incl. flights, transfers & hire car

THAILAND

Bangkok & Hua Hin

from £2,395 PP

14 nights Bed & Breakfast with 5 rounds of golf Incl. flights, transfers & caddie included per round

ESCORTED GOLF TOURS WITH PGA PRO JACQUES GOUS

INCLUDING ONE TO ONE & GROUP TUITION Join us on one of our popular escorted tours. Suitable for golfers and non-golfers alike, our PGA pro will be your guide throughout.

South Africa, Mauritius, Bulgaria, Turkey...

TO SEE OUR RANGE OF GOLF HOLIDAYS, ESCORTED TOURS AND GOLF TOURNAMENTS VISIT OUR WEBSITE

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AUTUMN 2018

[75]

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Brian McFadden The former Westlife singer picks his favourite places to get a tune out of his golf clubs course… was when I played in Justin Rose’s first ever charity golf day at Wentworth in 1999, just after he turned pro, and a few months after he’d finished fourth at Birkdale. I’d only just started playing golf, and couldn’t play properly, to say the least. The West Course is hard enough at the best of times, but as a complete beginner playing alongside an experienced professional, it was a total nightmare.

Thankfully, I’ve improved a bit since!

My first holiday was... a family trip to Spain when I was a kid. Coming from Ireland, we’d never been overseas before, but we flew over to Spain for a week, looking for sun, sea and sand, and it rained for six of the seven days. To make matters worse, it was the hottest week in Ireland for 30 years, so when we came back we looked like ghosts compared to everyone else!

My favourite golf holiday destination is…

There are so many that come to mind, but I've got to say that Marbella is one of the very best. It's got a great vibe all year round, with excellent food and nightlife. The golf is great too, and one of my very favourite courses, Valderrama, is located there. I tend to go there a couple of times a year, and I fall in love with it a little more every time.

My favourite golf resort is... Costa

them hard to get to grips with. When I played Carnoustie for the first time in the Dunhill Links I absolutely hated it, but over the years I’ve come to appreciate its challenge, and although I’ll never love it, I’ll always respect it.

■ COSTA NAVARINO IN GREECE, AND BELOW, PLAYING WITH ROBERT ROCK AT THE DUNHILL LINKS

Course at the Belfry. It’s not the most scenic of venues, but every time I play there I get this lovely feeling. I guess it’s to do with the history of the place, with its long association with the Ryder Cup. I generally prefer the more manicured American-style courses, with big waterfalls and lakes, so that also explains why I like The Belfry so much.

I’ve been lucky enough to play some of the world’s best links courses, but I just find

The best hotel I've ever stayed in was...

My ideal holiday fourball would include...

Trump Turnberry in Scotland. Politics aside, it’s quite spectacular, and the golf courses aren’t bad either.

Tiger, Rory, and, if you could get him back for one more round, Seve.

My favourite city in the world is... a toss up between Sydney and Los Angeles. I have lived in many cities during my life, but these two are definitely my favourites for different reasons.

My best ever round was at... last year’s Dunhill My favourite UK golf course is... the Brabazon

Navarino in Greece. Not just for the hotel, but the entire resort. The views are incredible - I love that place. I’ve been twice this year already. It has two fantastic golf courses, and I think two more are being built.

Links on the Sunday at St Andrews. Robert Rock and I shot a combined score of 14 under par to finish second – that was amazing. I think I had six or seven birdies. It was one of those days when every shot you hit found the middle of the green, and every putt went in the hole. Not many people get the chance to play the Old Course on a Sunday, so that will always be a special memory for me.

The golf course I’d most like to play is…

Augusta National. I know it’s probably never going to happen, but it would be an absolute dream to play a round there. I was supposed to play TPC Sawgrass with Roger Chapman a couple of years ago, but my plans changed on the day, so I had to fly home. I was absolutely gutted.

My most embarrassing moment on a golf

My top travel tip is... always bring the sticks!

From rom Southall Travel

UNLOCK A WORLD OF WONDER Shangri la Hambantota from

£684pp

7 Nights Half Board | 5 Rounds of Golf Overlooking the pristine southern coast of Sri Lanka, Shangri-La's Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa is home to an 18-hole championship golf course, which is the only resort course in the country, an expansive spa featuring exceptional Ayurveda treatments, and a unique artisan village that showcases local arts and crafts.Sri Lanka's premier 18-hole golf course, designed by internationally acclaimed golf architect Rodney Wright, nestles within an expansive coconut plantation and offers a challenge for both casual and seasoned players.

For full details visit our website

Call 0208 705 0150 email sales@stsports.com

www.stsports.com GOLF

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