Golf News September 2017

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ON AND OFF COURSE.

BY

NICK BAYLY

LADIES EUROPEAN TOUR CRISIS LAYS BARE GOLF’S TRUE GENDER INEQUALITIES

A

nyone who witnessed this year’s Solheim Cup first hand, or watched it on television, cannot have failed to recognise the skill and talent that its competitors possess. With booming drives, precision iron play, and putts holed from ridiculous distances, the players showed every bit as much ability as their male counterparts displayed in the Ryder Cup at Hazeltine 12 months ago.

The result in Des Moines, from a European perspective, was disappointing, but not wholly unexpected, given the marked difference in the world rankings, age, and experience of the two teams.

But the 16.5-11.5 scoreline hid a much deeper gulf that exists not just between women’s golf in America and Europe, but between the genders, and the way golf’s professional tours reward their stars.

On the first point, it is well documented that the Ladies European Tour is in crisis. With just seven events on this season’s schedule – not including the majors – many LET members without private financial backing have been forced to take second jobs in order to make ends meet. Without sponsors to support more tournaments, several of our Solheim Cup team arrived in Iowa on the back of only three or four competitive outings this year – hardly ideal preparation to play the golf of your life.

Small wonder that our best female European players all choose to play the majority of their schedule in America, which this year offers 30-plus events and prize funds averaging $1.5m, compared to the €300,000 ($350,000) the LET scrapes together on average for its handful of fixtures, many of which are scattered across the globe in China, Australia and India.

At the end of the 2016 season, the 30th ranked women on the LPGA Tour’s prize money list banked $617,000, while in Europe that figure was €50,000, or

considerably less than a day’s wages for Lionel Messi, if we’re talking football numbers.

Compare prize money to the men’s game, and it makes for even more depressing reading – if you’re a professional women golfer. The 30th ranked man on the PGA Tour, Jason Dufner, pocketed $2.87m in 2016, while Ireland’s Shane Lowery banked €1.17m for finishing 30th in last year’s Race to Dubai money list.

Nice work if you can get it – which they can.

Golf, at a professional level, is often compared – unfavourably, I might add – to tennis. Since 2007, all four major tennis tournaments have offered equal prize money, which was seen as a huge step forward for women’s tennis.

There is no reason why this shouldn’t happen in women’s golf. The R&A, in its remit to grow the game across the board, should at the very least be offering the same prize money for the Women’s British Open as it does for the Open Championship. If ever there was an opportunity to lead by example, then this is it.

In my view, the best result from the crisis that the LET is currently experiencing is that it gets swallowed up by the LPGA Tour, which, in turn, becomes one big global tour open to a much wider group of players.

The LET could then become a mini satellite tour – as currently exists in South Africa, Australia and Asia for the European Tour – hosting 20 or so much smaller events in Europe, from which, say, the top 15 players at the end of the season could earn a place on the new world tour. It would help grow the game at a more local level; players wouldn’t have to travel so far; prize funds could be equivalent to the PGA EuroPro Tour, where £10,000 is up for grabs to the winner each week; and local businesses could get more easily involved in pro-ams and sponsorship packages.

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SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

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■ BARRY LANE WAS PRESENTED WITH THE TROPHY BY WILLOW PRESIDENT BOB WILSON

HAYLING HOSTS CANCER CHARITY DAY A charity day hosted at Hayling Golf Club in Hampshire last month helped raise over £5,500 for the Chicester branch of Macmillan cancer support. A total of 19 four-ball teams turned out on day, braving driving rain and testing winds in a strongly contested Texas Scramble.

The top honours went to the team from CPN Investment Management led by Chris Nicholls, whose combined efforts produced a nett 57.

TATE CAPTURES CAVERSHAM CHAMPS Will Tate won Caversham Heath’s club championship after shooting rounds of 71 and 84 at the venue. The four handicapper fired six birdies in his opening round, and held on grimly in difficult conditions the following day to record a one-stroke victory over 2014 champion Richard Craven, who shot rounds of 76 and 80 – the latter of which was the best score of the day. Anne Smith won the Ladies Club Championship for the seventh consecutive season, shooting rounds of 93 and 90 to finish 19 shots clear of the field.

WHITBY PULL OFF WINNING DOUBLE

SWEET 60 SEES LANE CRUISE TO WILLOW CLASSIC WIN B arry Lane became part of European Senior Tour history last month, when he a shot a 12-underpar 60 en route to winning the Willow Senior Golf Classic at Hanbury Manor in Hertfordshire.

The 57-year-old former Ryder Cup player fired the record-breaking score during the second round of the 54-hole tournament, and it provided the platform to win his sixth European Senior Tour title by five shots, following a final round 67 at the Ware-based venue.

In addition to the lowest round in Senior Tour history, Lane’s 22-under-

par total was also the lowest 54-hole score to par.

“I don’t know how I did it,” said Lane. “I’ve shot 62 before, and 61, but that was on a par-70 course over four days. I think I missed one green; I had two two-putts on the par fives, so I probably only had 25 putts – 25 putts and 35 shots isn’t a bad round of golf. I holed everything within 15 feet. I had one really bad shot on 11, but I made it out the bunker and then holed the putt to keep the round going. I’m 57 and I nearly shot my age, which is quite difficult to do.”

Starting the final round with a

four-shot lead over Gary Orr, Lane was conscious not to get complacent. He added: “It is tough going out with a four-shot lead, and knowing that everyone is gunning for you; but it was only Gary who was within four shots, so it was mine to lose.”

Lane’s lead was cut to just two shots with five holes to play, after Orr birdied the 13th, but a birdie on the 15th hole kickstarted Lane’s round, as he went on to birdie the 16th and eagle the par-five 17th, restoring the four-stroke cushion on the 18th tee, which was stretched to five when Orr dropped a shot at the last.

“At all the tournaments I’ve won, I’ve led going into the final round, so I knew what to do,” said Lane, whose last victory came at the MCB Tour Championship in December. “I gave myself a bit of a pep talk before the round. I thought if I could get to 22 under, then Gary would have to shoot 63 just to tie. The birdie on 15 was crucial. I hit a great shot to the green and Gary went first, rolling one in for birdie. I knew I had to get mine in to stay two ahead.

“It was nice walking up the 18th with such a lead. I had 113 yards to the flag, but hit a horrendous hook with a wedge to the left of the green. I lost focus a little bit, but recovered, and it is fantastic to win again.”

Lane’s first prize cheque of €59,586 took him to third in the order of merit, and around €17,000 behind the leader, South Africa’s Chris Williams, and less than €1,000 behind secondplaced Magnus Atlevi from Sweden.

Orr finished runner up on 17 under par, two strokes ahead of Paul Wesselingh, while Roger Chapman finished fourth on 13 under.

Glenna Beasley, a member of Woburn Golf Club, took first place in the 54-hole Pro-Am that run concurrently with the professional tournament with a score of 25 under par. Her partners across the three days were Santiago Luna, Mike Harwood and, in the final round, tournament winner Lane. Proceeds from the Pro-Am were donated to the Willow charity, whose president and founder, football legend Bob Wilson, was on hand to present the winner’s trophy.

A quartet from Whitby Golf Club in Yorkshire pulled off a winning double when they successfully defended their

PRINCE’S BEGINS MAJOR HIMALAYAS RENOVATION

English Champion Club title. Janet McGeehin, Siew Choon Tan, Bob Scott and Mike Coates scored 86 points in the final on the Bracken course at Woodhall Spa, the home of England Golf. They finished three points ahead of the team from Enmore Park, while third place went to Windlesham with 82 points.

WARDLE WINS WOMENS’ STROKE PLAY TITLE Teenager Bel Wardle came from six shots behind to win the English Women’s Open Stroke Play Championship at Woodhall Spa by a single shot. The 17 year old from Cheshire fired a closing six-under 67 on the Hotchkin course to finish on threeunder par for the 72-hole event and a shot ahead of Dulcie Sverdloff of Essex.

STAFFORDSHIRE PAIR WIN TRUST NATIONAL FINAL A pair of Staffordshire golfers have won the national England Golf Trust stableford competition. Kay Marshall and Jo Norton, from Branston Golf Club, scored 42 points in the betterball final at King’s Norton Golf Club, Worcestershire.

They won by two points from the team from Thornbury, Bristol. Third place went to Chigwell, Essex, with 39 points. The competition is designed to raise funds for the England Golf Trust, which provides grants and bursaries for young men and women in education or aged up to 21. The tournament attracted initial entries from 150 clubs, which held qualifying rounds, and over 30 pairs reaching the national final, helping to raise over £4,000.

P

rince’s Golf Club in Kent has begun a major ■ AN ARCHTECT'S PLAN FOR THE HIMALAYAS' NEW SIXTH HOLE redevelopment of its famous Himalayas nine.

The Sandwich-based club, which hosted the Open Championship in 1932, has hired golf course architects Mackenzie & Ebert to handle the reconstruction, which began in August.

The Himalayas course will remain open during the project, with minimal disruption throughout the process, as will the club’s other two nine-hole layouts, Dunes and Shore.

Mackenzie & Ebert currently advise seven of the 10 courses currently on the Open rota, resulting in recent major changes at Turnberry and Royal Portrush, along with other highly regarded links courses such as Royal Dornoch, Royal Porthcawl, Saunton and Trevose.

Martin Ebert and Mike Howard of Mackenzie and Ebert Ltd have visited Prince’s on numerous occasions to assess the land and scope for the project.

The company subsequently produced a report which analysed historic, prewar, and wartime RAF photography, and unveiled several interesting features that will be reintroduced.

Rob McGuirk, Director of Golf at Prince’s, commented: “The entire club is very excited by this project. We believe Mackenzie & Ebert’s plans will transform the Himalayas Nine into one of the finest stretches of links golf in the country. We’re committed to continuous improvement at Prince’s, and this is certainly the most ambitious phase of development the club has seen for decades.”

The works will re-route the nine significantly, with the current second and third holes combining to make a long par five. The new second tee will be located to the right of the existing first fairway and will play to a maximum of ■ WORK HAS ALREADY STARTED ON THE NEW PAR-3 5TH HOLE 615 yards.

A short, signature par-3 fifth hole will then be inserted playing towards the further. Extensive changes to the bunkering, water hazards, green surrounds, sea after the existing fifth (new fourth) hole. These changes will increase the out-of-play areas, tees and clearance of trees are all included in the renovation par of the nine to 36. The new fifth hole will measure between 120 and 160 plans. yards, with a variety of tees to be designed.

Work has already begun on the construction of the new fifth hole. This will Another notable change will be to the current eighth, which will become be followed by the new second fairway development, and the construction a short, drivable par four, with permanent wetlands either side that will be of new teeing areas on the new second, third, fourth, sixth, eighth and ninth strategically and ecologically valuable. A new set of tees for the hole, to be holes. Once this work is done, the focus will turn to the fairway bunkers. The placed on top of the dune ridges presently to the right of the existing hole, planned completion date for construction is before the end of the year, with will also allow the practice ground in front of the clubhouse to be developed the new holes opening in the late spring/early summer of 2018.

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SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

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BEEFY ON COURSE AT BOUNDARY LAKES OPENING

■ BOUNDARY LAKES IS LOCATED NEXT TO THE AGEAS BOWL

T

he Ageas Bowl’s brand new Boundary Lakes Golf Course welcomed a number of high-profile celebrities and guests last month, as the Southhampton-based venue hosted an exclusive celebrity golf event to mark the opening of the UK’s newest golf venue.

The event saw Sir Ian Botham, Southampton FC legend Francis Benali, Hampshire cricketer James Vince, and an array of other celebrities arrived at the iconic home of Hampshire Cricket Club to take part in a shotgun start competition on the brand new par-69 parkland course, which opened for play on July 10.

The competition winners were a team led by Boundary Lakes’ head greenkeeper Andrew Brown, which included Louis Spies, Ian Nicholson and Hampshire Cricket Club’s Tom Alsop.

Speaking at the prize giving, Botham said: “The course is in excellent condition, and it’s been a really enjoyable day. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed playing here and with the guys on my team.

Boundary Lakes is the sort of course that will get better and better as time goes on.”

The Ageas Bowl’s chief executive, David Mann said: “We’re extremely

■ IAN BOTHAM TOOK PART IN THE SPECIAL OPENING EVENT

proud to have opened Boundary Lakes. This was a major engineering achievement, and we have been working hard on this project for a number of years. I would particularly like to thank the course architect Bruce Weller for his design input, our partners at Keltbray, who delivered the project, and our own greenkeeping staff, who have worked tirelessly to present the course in fantastic condition.”

The 5,816-yard course, part of which was redesigned from a pre-existing 9-hole layout, features four lakes, with the par-3 second being one of the signature holes, having been inspired by the 12th at Augusta, with a large pond fronting the green. In addition to a short game and putting practice area, the club’s off-course facilities, including changing rooms, American Golf store, bar, golf restaurant

and clubhouse are housed within the Hilton at the Ageas Bowl Hotel, which features 171 bedrooms, a spa, Beefy’s restaurant and the Lakeview sports bar.

The club has appointed PGA Professional Shaun Hall, who was previously at Botley Park, as head professional, while former England and Hampshire cricketer Tim Tremlett has been named club captain.

Earlier this year, Boundary Lakes experienced phenomenal demand for both five- and seven-day membership packages, with a ballot required to select successful applicants, and despite membership being full, a waiting list is open for prospective members, while pay-and-play green fees at the course start from just £20.

SOUTHWOOD UNDER THREAT FROM PARKLAND PLANS

T

he future of Southwood Golf Club in Hampshire is under threat, after the local council unveiled plans to convert the course into public parkland.

Rushmoor Borough Council has launched a public consultation asking for views on changing the 18-hole layout near Farnborough into a natural open parkland.

The proposal would mean that the area would be opened up to become around 50 hectares of public green space for everyone to enjoy, replacing the golf course.

Combined with Southwood Woodland and other green open space nearby, this

would create a large country park area, offering activities including walking, cycling, trim trails, natural play structures and a community orchard. This new parkland would become what is known as Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG).

Being a SANG would permanently protect the land as public open space, meaning it would never be built on. It also means that the council would use developers' contributions to pay for its creation and upkeep.

Southwood Golf Course opened in the late 1970s, and became an 18-hole course in 1988. The club currently has

around 175 members, but the number of the rounds played by visitors, which makes up the bulk of revenue, has dwindled significantly in recent years, and it now costs

the council around £40,000 a year to subsidise the venue.

The consultation period runs until September 22, with local residents set to receive a leaflet seeking their views

on the proposal before a decision is made.

Councillor Martin Tennant, Rushmoor Borough Council's cabinet member for Environment and Service

Delivery, said: "Converting Southwood into natural open parkland would permanently protect the land as green open space. It would also allow for around 2,500 new homes to be built elsewhere in the borough. We recognise that golf supports our health agenda, and the course is popular with those who use it, even though numbers have dropped in recent years.”

He added: “We will be spending time with the golf course users, members, and the club, to understand better the impact such a decision would have on them, what their needs might be going forward, and what we could do to help mitigate the potential loss of the course."

The consultation is available to view online at www.rushmoor.gov.uk/ southwoodsurvey.

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NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2017

GOLDING CONTINUES WINNING WAYS AT WOBURN

P

hil Golding captured his second European Senior Tour title in as many months after winning the Travis Perkins Masters at Woburn in dramatic fashion.

The 54-year-old Englishman, who won the Swiss Seniors Open in July, fired a final round 70 over the Dukes Course to win by a stroke from America’s Clark Dennis and Ireland’s Brendan McGovern.

Golding started the final round of the 54-hole tournament four strokes behind Dennis, who grabbed the lead after shooting a second round 65. The

American birdied four of the first five holes to move seven strokes clear on Sunday – and extend what looked like an invincible lead. But the 51-year-old Texan, who is in his first year on the over-50s' tour, undid all his hard work with a bogey and double bogey on the eighth and ninth holes, which opened the door to his rivals.

Golding birdied the first, the fifth and the 10th to stay in touch, and with Dennis running into further trouble on the back nine – with double bogeys at 13 and 16 – Golding found himself tied for the lead with three holes

■ PHIL GOLDING WON TWICE ON THE SENIOR TOUR THIS SUMMER

to play. And a birdie-three on the par-4 16th, followed by pars on the final two holes, proved good enough to get the Luton-born player over the line.

“I am a little bit in shock,” said Golding, after picking up his fourth Senior Tour title. “I kept looking at the

leaderboard, and wandering what was going on. I’ve been around long enough to know to keep plugging away and grind it out. I said to my caddie that I was playing for second spot, after seeing Clark was five or six ahead of me after five holes, but Paul told to me to keep going.”

He added: “I’m delighted with the win. It was tough out there. It’s a great course, Woburn, but it’s also very tough, especially in these blustery conditions. If you hit it in the trees, you have to take your medicine, come out sideways, and then carry on.

You never want to see what

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happened to Clark, but he’s a good player, and I’m sure he’ll cross the line soon.”

Victory, which came with a €58,600 first prize, moved Golding up to fourth on the Order of Merit, and with the Paris Legends Championship at Le Golf National, site of his 2003 French Open victory, on the horizon, the Busheybased man is looking to finish the season strong.

McGovern carded a level-par final round to finish four under par for a share of second place, while Chris Williams, who currently leads the Order of Merit, finished fourth on two under. Ian Woosman was high up on the leaderboard for much of the week, but three costly bogeys over the last four holes saw him slip back into a share of 12th place on two over.

O’HANLON BAGS SECOND BRITISH PAR 3 TITLE C

ornish club professional Richard O’Hanlon sealed his second win in the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship after a tense final day on the Cromwell Course at Nailcote Hall in Warwickshire.

A topsy-turvy last round saw the lead constantly change hands, as the sunshine finally came out for this year’s edition of the championship. Eddie Pepperell, a top-20 finisher at this year’s US Open and 2014 British Par 3 champion, was in inspired form, matching the first round leader with a score of threeunder par.

Ashley Mason and O’Hanlon were battling with one another for the top berth, but O’Hanlon’s birdie at the 17th effectively sealed the title with an overall score of five under par across the two rounds for a two-shot margin of victory.

Mason dropped a shot back late on to eventually finish on three under, while Meghan MacLaren also had a fine second

round, finishing on two under alongside Gary Wolstenholme, Steven Tiley and Andre Bossert, while Paul Lawrie came in tied eighth with Santiago Luna and Carl Mason, a further shot back.

For 47-year-old PGA teaching professional O’Hanlon, who won the title in 2010 and was runner up last year, the £50,000 first prize is a life-changing sum of money. He said: “Unbelievable! It was a rollercoaster of a day, my emotions are still all over the place. To go from second last year to my second win now – I’m delighted. I’m a club and teaching pro, and this is European Tour money, so this is out of this world!”

O'Hanlon, who is the head professional at St Kew Golf Club in Cornwall, added: “It doesn’t get any better than playing with Ian Woosnam in the final group for €50,000, and to know that when it comes down to it, I can actually do it.

My long-term goal is to reach the European Senior Tour in three years time – it’s something

I want to work towards.”

The honours in the Super Senior category were shared by Woosnam and four-time winner Carl Mason, with a score of one over par. The Norma C Herd Silver Salver prize,

awarded to the best amateur, went to Michael Lawrie, son of Paul Lawrie, with a score of five over. The team prize went to O’Hanlon and his amateur partner Tony Lymn, with a combined score of 13 under par.

[10] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

YORKSHIRE SISTERS-IN-LAW WIN PING WOMEN’S TITLE Yorkshire sisters-in-law Kerry Lamb and Tina Sampson won the Ping Women’s Fourball Betterball Grand Final on countback at Gainsborough Golf Club. The pair, from Tankersley Park in Sheffield, amassed 42 points in tough conditions on the Karsten Lakes course to pip Bedfordshire teenagers Luca Thompson and Imogen Morton King, thanks to their better back nine of 22 points.

MACGREGOR WINS SURREY COLTS TITLE Burhill’s Elliot MacGregor won the Surrey U14 title after shooting a level par 72 at Bramley Golf Club. He beat Shergo Kurdi (Wisley) by two shots, with Rocky

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FRILFORD HEATH UNVEILS NEW SIX-HOLE COURSE N ot content with offering 45 holes, Frilford Heath Golf Club has unveiled a further six holes, following the opening of a new short course.

The new Yellow Course joins the club’s pre-existing Red, Blue and Green 18-hole courses to take the number of holes offered at the Oxfordshire venue up to 51.

The Yellow course has been designed specifically to make golf more accessible, and encourage young people and beginners to take up the game. To mark the opening, 100-year old Frilford Heath member Hugh Chamberlain played an exhibition match with European Tour star Eddie Pepperell, who is attached to the club.

The new layout, which opened 23 years after the unveiling of the Green

course, comprises six holes with 12 synthetic tees and six synthetic greens, which were supplied by Huxley Golf. The six greens are all the same size – 1,350 square metres – although each has a different shape and different undulations.

The longest hole is just 86 yards long, and rounds take no longer than 60 minutes, ensuring beginners can play without being concerned about the difficulty. It also offers an alternative for older members who find it difficult to play 18 holes.

The design of the course was a collaborative effort between Huxley Golf’s Will Alsop and Sid Arrowsmith at Frilford Heath, with the club’s former general manager Jimmy James also involved. The

■ EDDIE PEPPERELL TOOK PART IN THE LAUNCH OF FRILFORD HEATH'S NEW SHORT COURSE

course, which took 18 months build, is spilt into two loops of three holes each, with the second loop slightly tougher than the first.

Pepperell, who took part in the official opening of the course, said: “It’s so important to make golf inclusive if we want it to remain one of the UK’s leading sports. There are many people who may be put off playing a round of 18 holes because they are worried about their ability

and the time it takes. This course means beginners and those new to the game can come and play a quick round to gradually improve their game with confidence.”

Alistair Booth, Frilford Heath’s executive chairman, said: “We want to safeguard the future of this sport and feel that in order to do so, we need to make golf available to everyone, which this new six-hole course is designed to do."

Chapman (Wentworth) taking third place on countback.

RICH PICKINGS FOR RODGERS AT SOUTHERN PROS CHAMPS Richings Park’s Chris Rodgers won the CK Group PGA Southern Professionals Championship by five shots after shooting 18 under par for 54 holes at Kings Hill Golf Club in Kent. Bagging the biggest Order of Merit cheque of the season ,£2,500, for his cards of 67, 64 and 67, Rodgers jumped up the Virgin Atlantic PGA South Order of Merit into second place behind Canterbury’s Richard Wallis.

Tied with Oxford Golf Centre’s Adam Wootton, with a score of 13 under for second place, was Silvermere’s James Ford, with Wallis two shots further back in fourth.

PAUL EQUALS HARLEYFORD RECORD EN ROUTE TO WINNING

B

uckinghamshire youngster Taylor Paul is hoping to follow in the footsteps of Tyrrell Hatton after winning the inaugural Junior Masters which was hosted by the European Tour star at Harleyford Golf Club on September 4.

■ TAYLOR PAUL WITH TYRRELL HATTON The first staging of the Tyrrell Hatton Junior Masters attracted a 60-strong field of elite junior golfers from across the south east, with over half of the field playing off a handicap of five or lower.

The field included BB&O Junior Champion Charlie Herbert from Harewood

Downs, and Harleyford’s own pre-tournament favourite Taylor Paul, who plays off plus one.

The day was one of two halves, as the early competitors struggled on Harleyford’s traditionally quick greens, but as the day wore on, and the lower handicappers came to grips with the large undulating putting surfaces, the scores got lower, until the penultimate group, featuring Paul, handed in their cards.

With two eagles on the back-to-back par fives around the turn, and birdies on 12, 13 and 14, Paul parred the last with a clutch putt to match Harleyford’s course record of 65, which was set by Hatton himself several years ago.

Hatton was delighted to see his seven-under par score matched by such a bright young talent from his own home club.

Runner up on the day was another impressive talent, Connor Bell, playing out of Royal Blackheath, who shot a 71 on a day that favoured precision around the greens over brute force from the tee.

Hatton, as the tournament host, was involved in the event from start to finish, while his equipments sponsors, Ping and Titleist, generously donated an impressive array of gifts for all competitors, while prizes for the winners of each of the three age categories (U 14, U16 and U18) included a flag signed by Hatton to complement the sponsors’ generous contributions.

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NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2017

[11]

THE SHIRE UNVEILS £250K RENOVATION PROGRAMME

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he Shire London has announced it is to carry out a programme of upgrades to its facilities over the next two years.

The Barnet-based club, which celebrated its 10th anniversary this summer, will undertake a series of bunker refurbishments and remodelling works to its Seve Ballesteros-designed course this winter, with additional tee boxes on some of its par-three holes a priority.

The club’s driving range and short game area will also both be improved, and the club’s putting green – which overlooks the S-shaped lake on the final hole – will be extended.

Elsewhere, the experience for both members and visitors will be enhanced with a series of improvements to clubhouse, function and player facilities for the 2018 season.

Work will also start soon on refurbishing the club’s changing rooms. The entire project will cost in the region of £250,000.

With the recent appointment of European Ryder Cup captain Thomas Bjorn as the club’s honorary captain, and a recent vote naming it London’s No.1 golfing experience, The Shire London brought its first decade to a successful close with a weekend of 10th anniversary celebrations in early July this year.

WOODMAN BAGS BB&O PRO’S TITLE ■ THE SHIRE IS TO BENEFIT FROM UPGRADES TO THE COURSE AND CLUBHOUSE

“Our loyal members have shown enormous faith in us since we opened in summer 2007,” said director Ceri Menai-Davis. “Our responsibility to them is to continuously improve the experience of membership at The Shire London, and this new programme of works will be visible proof of that. We also enjoy very strong support from visitors and group golf bookers, so it is vital that we keep on improving all aspects of a day’s golf here.

“Seve’s spectacular original course design will always be the main attraction for golfers, of course, but we have enjoyed great success with our social events too and our upgraded clubhouse facilities will make them even more special in the future.”

Reynolds and BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty, to the top team prize with a 15-under-par total. Wildwood Golf & Country’s club’s former Director Golf Phil Harrison and his team finished second, a shot behind.

Supported by KCOM and celebrating its eighth year at Foxhills, it is one of the highest profile events in the southern schedule has now raised in excess of £300,000, with ■ CRAIG SUTHERLAND

SOUTHERN STARS SHINE FOR SEVE AT FOXHILLS

B

arnehurst’s Jordan Godwin and Cherry Lodge’s Craig Sutherland tied for victory in the KCOM Seve Ballesteros Foundation Pro-Am held at Foxhills in Surrey.

Sutherland and Godwin each shot six-under-par 66s around the Surrey resort’s Longcross

course, nudging fellow Kent pros Benn Barham and Scott Stevens into second spot, who each fired matching 67s.

Sutherland made it a particularly good day at the office, as he led his three amateurs, including tournament organiser Brendan

■ JORDAN GOODWIN

funds being used for brain cancer research as well as providing opportunities for underprivileged children to learn to play golf.

Brendan Reynolds, long-time friend of the Ballesteros family and the Pro-Am, and the driving force behind the event, said: “Many people happily go the extra mile to make this very special event so successful. With all the efforts we’ve all put in over the past eight years, it’s now taken on a life of its own and, of course, it’s even more wonderful when golfers everywhere can all continue to be inspired by today’s two winners.”

Sutherland added: “It’s impossible not to be inspired when you think of Seve and everything he achieved.

It’s great that there is an event that helps us all to celebrate Seve’s memory, and to raise more funds for the causes that were closest to his heart.”

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Guy Woodman cut down his rivals in the BB&O Professionals Championship after shooting a 141 total for 36 holes around the Blue course at a blustery Frilford Heath Golf Club. He started with an unspectacular two-over par 74 in the morning, but turned up the heat by scoring a fantastic five-under par 67 to finish on three under par and claim the top prize. Tom Fleming used his local knowledge of the Frilford layout to finish two shots back in second with rounds of 73 and 70.

COLES DIGS DEEP TO CLAIM EAST REGION CHAMPIONSHIP A second round 65 saw PGA Cup player Robert Coles win the East Region Championship held at Bishop Storford.

The 45 year old from Maylands finished on eight under par to pull a shot clear of runner-up James Scade (Little Channels), and consolidate his spoistion at the top of the PGA East Region Order of Merit. His place in the end-of-season PGA Play-Offs is now all but assured.

BROWN SHINES AT THE SHIRE Stuart Brown shot a five-under-par 67 to win The Shire Pro-am by two shots.

The Thorpe Wood pro made six birdies around the Seve Ballesteros-designed layout – including four on the trot – as he triumphed from Chris Grant (Garon Park) and Tom Phillpotts (Brocket Hall).

Brown, who teed off at the 16th, enjoyed a golden scoring spree from the seventh where he triggered his birdie quartet.

[12] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

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KIM STAKES EUROPRO CLAIM WITH WINS AT CAVERSHAM AND ESN

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SUNDRIDGE WINS WEST KENT TITLE Sundridge Park won the SEA West Kent Trophy after beating Wrotham Heath 5.5-2.5 at Shooters Hill. The team, which was captained by Peter Young, comprised Steve Edwards, Tommy Major, Lawrence Beckett, Harry Buck, Gareth Morse, Frank Bristow, Brian Haynes and Neil Fitzgerald.

CUTCHIE CLEANS UP AT THREE RIVERS Colchester’s Chris Cutchie shot a six-under par 66 to beat Craig Housden by a shot in the Three Rivers Pro-Am. The winner made an eagle and four birdies in a flawless round to secure his first victory of the season. Starting at the 10th, he was four-under after just seven holes – including three straight birdies from 14 – and an eagle at the par-5 third sealed the deal.

CHAN WINS SURREY BOYS KNOCKOUT Wentworth’s Justin Chan captured the green division of the Surrey Boys’ Handicap Knockout Final after beating Windlesham’s Sam Woodham in a closely fought final at West Byfleet. The lead changed hands several times during the course of the match before Chan, who was giving two shots to his rival, parred the final hole for a 1up victory.

NIZELS WIN KENT VETS TITLE Nizels Golf Club won the West Kent Veterans Knockout title after overcoming Chislehurt 2-1 over West Malling's Hurricane Course. The three better-ball matches were each fiercely contested, with the Nizels team comprising Ken Ramsammy, Geoff Tomlinson, Martyn Taylor, Trevor Baker, Clive Edwards and Paul Weaser running out narrow winners over Chislehurst's Peter Stevenson, Stuart Ryle, Malcolm Beane, Bob Broom, Jim Beattie and Graham Coates.

WEALD OF KENT CAPTURE TOP CLUB TITLE A four-man team from The Weald of Kent captured Kent’s Top Club Knockout title after beating West Kent 2-0 in the fourball better ball competition held at Sheerness.

The winning team comprised Chris Turner, Keith Cleary, Lee Jones and Adrian McCabe.

HOWELL HOSTS JUNIOR OPEN AT THE GROVE European Tour star David Howell was on hand to welcome a field of 60 youngsters that took part in The Grove’s inaugural Junior Open.

Howell, who is the Hertfordshire resort’s first golf ambassador, hosted a putting clinic and took time out to offer advice to all the competitors.

The Junior Open attracted a highcalibre field, with Jack Kelly coming out on top with a gross 70 (-2) to win the scratch competition by two shots from Dominic Clemons, while nine-handcapper Sam Hadley claimed the handicap prize with a nett score of 64, two shots ahead of runner up Zach Little. The post-match putting competition was won by Clemons with a score of 15 around the nine-hole set up.

TWINS HOLD COURSE RECORD AT LANGLEY PARK

■ SOUTH KOREA'S MIN KYU KIM

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orean teenager Min Kyu Kim has laid down the gauntlet to PGA EuroPro Tour long-time order of merit leader Chris Lloyd after winning back-to-back events.

Kim, aged just 16, won the Pentahotels Championship at Caversham Heath and the Fore Business Championship at East Sussex National in successive weeks to move up into second in the Race to Amendoeira, setting up an exciting few weeks as the season reaches its climax.

Kim became the tour’s youngest ever champion when he cruised to a two-shot win at Caversham Heath, firing rounds of 65, 67 and 73 to finish on 14 under par for a pillar-to-post victory.

He then carried that form onto the following week’s Fore Business Championship at East Sussex National, where he had to battle through a play-off against Royal Dublin’s Niall Kearney before he could bank yet another £10,000 first prize.

Kim looked to be cruising to his second title when shooting a course record 63 over the Sussex venue’s East Course during the second round, but three dropped shots in the last three holes of his final round saw him forced to take the tournament to extra holes after Kearney fired a closing 64.

Both players parred the first play-off hole, before Kearney bogeyed the 18th on the second attempt, which Kim comfortably putted for par.

“I’m so happy with my second win, I played really well up until my final three hole,” said Kim. “I was really nervous heading into the play-off, but I just tried to relax, manage my game, and tried to enjoy it. It felt great when that final putt fell in.”

Kim’s late run has taken him within £11,000 of order of merit leader Chris Lloyd, who has already won three times this season, and is chasing a £250,000 payout that is on offer to anyone who wins four times.

Kim added: “Chris is a great player, and it’s a good feeling knowing I’m close to his total tour wins this year. I’d like to thank EuroPro Tour, East Sussex National Golf Club, and Golfmind Korea for all of their support this year.”

After Kim and Lloyd failed to make an impression at the following week’s event at Collingtree Park, there are just two tournaments remaining in the seasons – the Clipper Logistics Championship at Moor Allerton and the Tour Championship at Amendoeria – meaning either player could still win the huge payout.

wins Max and Tom Jordan now jointly hold the amateur course record at Langley Park Golf Club in Kent, after Max’s gross 63 – nett 64 off his +1 handicap – achieved this summer equalled his brother Tom’s score at the club in 2013.

Both twins began playing golf aged 10, joining Langley Park in 2007, and have tasted much success since then, with Max winning in the Faldo Series (South) TWINS HOLD COURSE ECORD AT LANGLEY PARK in 2012, shooting a course record -9 in Rthe 2016 English Amateur, and currently

has only missed one cut in events in 2017. Max begins a business management Twins Max and Tom Jordan now jointly hold the amateur course record a degree in golf Park at TheGolf GolfClub College in September and hopes in Kent, after Max’s gross 63 to – neventually ett 64 off turn his +pro.

1 handicap – Tom was ranked ninth best U18 player in England during 2015, achieving this summer equalled his brother Tom’s score at the club in 2013. several top 10sBoth and atwins runners-up in the South England Open.

Hisin 2007, and h began spot playing golf aged of 10, joining Boys’ Langley Park much success since lowest handicap as an amateur wasthen, +3. with Max winning in the Faldo Series (South) in shooting a course record -­‐9 in his the 2016 After turning pro in 2016, he experienced first winEnglish at the A TPmateur, Tour and currently ha missed one cut in events in 2017. Max begins a business management deg Championships at Worplesdon, shooting six under in the process, and has The Golf College in September and hopes to eventually turn pro. played regularly onwthe TP iTour and Alps Tour.2015, He achieving Tom as Europro ranked nTour, inth bJamega est U18 Tour, player n England during has recently started working alongside Langley Park Head Pro Paul Sherman toHis lowest 10s and a runners up spot in the South of England Boys’ Open. begin his PGA an studies. amateur was +3.

After turning pro in 2016, he experienced his first win at the TP Tour Cham Worplesdon, shooting six under in the process, and has played regularly o Europro Tour, Jamega Tour, TP Tour and Alps Tour. Tom has recently start alongside Langley Park Head Pro Paul Sherman to begin his PGA studies.

IFIELD PRO SCOOPS AMERICAN GOLF AWARD

I

field Golf Club’s Jon Earl has been voted the PGA Professional of the Year at the inaugural American Golf Awards.

The 45 year old accepted the award, which was voted for by members of the public, at a gala dinner held at The Belfry on September 7, where all elements of the golf industry were recognised for their excellence.

Earl was a member at Ifield, near Horsham in West Sussex, for many years, starting out there as a junior,

before eventually taking on the role of head professional when he was just 25.

Over 20 years later, he is still there and was described by numerous members in their nominations as ‘the heartbeat of the club’. His work with juniors, ladies and the general development of the club was praised as being ‘above and beyond’ that which should be expected, and his service to Ifield was recognised by members as ‘outstanding’.

HUMPHREYS WINS GIRLS' AMATEUR

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ssex’s Lily May Humphreys won the Girls' British Open Amateur Championship at Enville after defeating Emilie Overas 7&5 in the 18-hole final to seal the biggest win of her amateur career.

Following her impressive triumph, the 15-year-old from Stoke by Nayland earned an exemption into Final Qualifying for the Ricoh Women’s British Open next year, and will aim to secure a place in the starting field at Royal Lytham & St Annes.

Humphreys surged into the lead with a birdie at the par-five first, and the 2017 European Young Masters champion was soon two-up on her opponent, after Overas could only manage a double-bogey on the parthree second.

The England youth international extended her advantage to three holes after a birdie on the third, before taking a firm grip of the match at 4up after the Norwegian made a bogey on the fourth to lose another hole.

The blistering start made by Humphreys eventually ran out of steam after the pair halved both the 5th and 6th, before Overas made small inroads into reducing the deficit by bouncing back to win the 7th with a birdie three.

The fightback was short-lived however; Humphreys responded by birdieing the 8th to restore the lead back to four holes, and laid one hand on the trophy after rolling in a birdie on the par-five 10th to move to 5up.

Humphreys closed out the match on the 13th, after Overas conceded the hole, sealing a memorable win to lift the title.

Humphreys said: “This win means so much. This is the best I’ve ever played to win a tournament. I didn’t miss a putt. I was six under par through 13 holes, so I guess that’s pretty difficult to beat.”

Celebrating

25

Years

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[14] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

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TRIBUTES PAID TO FORMER FERNDOWN PRO T ributes have been paid to Douglas Sewell, the former head professional of Ferndown Golf Club in Dorset, who had died age 87, following a prolongued illness.

Sewell, who was head pro at Ferndown for 27 years between 1967 and 1994, enjoyed a brilliant amateur career in the 1950s, before going on to achieve great success as a professional at national and international level.

He was granted honorary life membership of the PGA in 1994, represented Great Britain & Ireland in the Walker Cup in 1957 and 1959, as well as the Eisenhower Trophy a year later. In the latter event’s individual competition he was runner up to Jack Nicklaus.

He also won the Brabazon

Trophy in 1957, and followed that with victory in the English Amateur Championship a year later. He then repeated the sequence in the subsequent two years.

His first role after becoming a professional in 1961 was as an assistant to Tom Haliburton at the Wentworth. He remained there for six years, before succeeding fourtime Ryder Cup player Percy Alliss as head PGA Professional at Ferndown in Dorset.

Sewell’s best achievement as a professional came in the Martini International at Conwy in 1970, when he tied for first place with Australia’s Peter Thomson. He also played in the Open Championship, finishing tied 20th at Muirfield in 1966, and fifth of Britain’s representation at

2018 ULTIMATE GOLF DAY GUIDE IS BIGGER & BETTER THAN EVER! ■ DOUG SEWELL WAS HEAD PRO AT FERNDOWN FOR 27 YEARS

Royal Birkdale in 1971.

Sewell made history by becoming the first winner of the PGA Professional Championships in 1973 at Calcot Park. He repeated the victory at the same venue in 1975, and remains one of only six players to have won the event twice.

After retiring as head professional at Ferndown, he went on to become club president and was granted honorary membership, of which he made full use, playing alongside his wife Carol.

Ian Walton, general manager at Ferndown, said: “Doug was a

great supporter of the juniors and donated the Doug Sewell Bowl. He would attend the juniors’ annual prize giving evening, and personally congratulate each and every winner.

He was also a keen supporter of the adult members, with several competitions named in his honour.

“More recently, he donated the salver he won in the Martini International as the annual trophy for a mixed greensomes competed for by the members on Easter Monday.

Whilst a private man, Doug will be remembered fondly by all who knew him and will be sorely missed.”

N

ow in its 18th year, Golf News’ Ultimate Guide to Society and Company Golf is the musthave publication for every golf day organiser.

The 2018 version will be published next month and showcase many of the UK’s finest clubs and courses, all of which guarantee a great day’s golfing.

Available in a beautifully-designed, new and larger A4 format, this full-colour publication will also be printed on top quality paper, which is sent out to over 7,000 society and corporate golf day organisers, and provides all the information needed to make a golf day outing a complete success.

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

NEW BUNKERS PROVE A ‘HIT’ AT GOODWOOD

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■ NEW BUNKERS HAVE REVISED THE PLAYING STRATEGY ON GOODWOOD’S DOWNS COURSE

he reworked bunkering on the Downs Course at Goodwood in West Sussex has proved a positive move for the club and its membership, according to the golf club’s general manager.

Stuart Gillett said that golfers who have played the Downs Course before, but have not done so in the last year, can expect ‘consistency and a slightly fairer test’ if they choose to go back to the James Braid-designed venue, which completed a major bunker renovation project earlier this year. Some of the course’s bunkers were relocated or introduced, while others have been removed or remodeled, all of which has served to improve the overall playing experience, as well as ensure that the course remains a fitting challenge for the very best players.

“Our desire was to have consistency in our bunkering across all 18 holes, and make the course a little ‘friendlier’ to the higher handicap,” said Gillett. “Both these objectives have been achieved very well indeed.”

He added: “The first phase of works has grown in exceptionally, and the most recent and last phase, which was completed in January this year, looks like it’s been in there for years. We are delighted as to how the bunkers now lend themselves to the topography of the downland landscape.”

The bunker renovation was designed by Chichester-based architect Tom Mackenzie, who, along with his design partner Martin Ebert, has worked on over 60 course projects in 16 countries.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2017

[15]

SUNDRIDGE SAVOURS NEW-LOOK WEST COURSE

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photographs.

As well as being available in print format, the 2018 Ultimate Guide is available to read online at www.golfdayguide.com – a standalone website that connects golf clubs and golfers like never before and in digital format via golfnews.co.uk To order your copy email guide@ golfnews.co.uk with “Ultimate Guide 2018’ in the subject line. Expect your copy to be with you at the end of October.

he membership at Sundridge Park in Kent has enjoyed its first full summer playing on its newly-renovated West Course, following the completion of a remodeling of the bunkering on the first nine holes of the 18-hole championship layout.

The project is part of a five-phase masterplan to overhaul both the club’s layouts, with the East Course due to receive a similar makeover in the season’s ahead, although not before the renovations to the back nine on the West course has been completed.

The project, whose aim is to improve not just the bunker quality, but the overall playing strategy throughout the course, was drawn up by Kent-based architect James Edwards of Edwards Design International.

Speaking about the West Course’s new-look front nine, Ben Riley, Sundridge Park’s general manager, said: "We are delighted with the results of the Phase I bunkering, and our members are

■ SUNDRIGE PARK IS EMBARKING ON A FIVE-PHASE RENOVATION PLAN

seven miles from the centre of London. Set in the grounds of the Sundridge Park Estate, the West Course was laid out by Willie Park under the supervision of James Braid, while Sir Guy Campbell and Major CK Hutchinson – whose work as a team has been regularly recognised, created the East Course.

all enjoying the new test. James Edwards lead the design from start to finish, with multiple site visits during the construction, and we can clearly see the benefits of having him here regularly to supervise."

Sundridge Park is the nearest 36-hole golf club to a major metropolitan city, located just

POINTS WIN PRIZES FOR LENGDEN AT LUTON HOO

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weden’s Oscar Lengden produced an outstanding closing display to clinch a maiden Challenge Tour title at the Bridgestone Challenge at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa. Lengden entered the final round at 12 points off the lead in the modified Stableford event – a first for the Challenge Tour – but fired his way back into contention with three birdies over the front nine over the Bedfordshire resort’s layout, which has the unusual distinction of having no bunkers.

The 25 year old, who came into the tournament on the back of a career-best fifth at the previous week’s Czech Masters, then bagged two more birdies at 10 and 12, but it was over the closing stretch where his class shone through.

■ OSCAR LENGDEN

After third round leader Nicolai von Dellingshausen made a double-bogey at the 14th, a gap opened for Lengden, who took his chance with back-to-back birdies on 16 and 17, before draining a 30-foot putt for eagle on the last.

After signing for a closing 62, Lengden was had to wait and see if his rivals could match his 49-point total.

With von Dellingshausen unable to close the gap, finishing two points shy on 47, and with Wentworth’s Steven Brown a further four points back in third, Lengden was able to secure his third professional title – which he confessed might never have happened had he chosen to take up the spot he was offered at the European Masters in Switzerland following his impressive finish in the Czech Republic the previous week.

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[16] SEPTEMBER 2017 | INTERVIEW

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

RISE ROOKIE ON THE

Since turning pro in 2014, Jordan Smith has jumped from the Europro Tour to the Challenge Tour to the European Tour in successive seasons, winning at all three levels, and last month played in his first major, coming ninth in the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow. To say the 24-year-old Bath man’s career has been meteoric is something of an understatement....

H

WHAT’S IN JORDAN’S BAG? Driver: TaylorMade 2017 M1 (9.5˚) Fairways: TaylorMade 2017 M2 Tour (15˚, 18˚) Utility: Titleist 718 T-MB Irons: Mizuno MP-18 (4-9) Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM6 (46˚, 52˚, 58˚) Putter: TaylorMade Spider Tour Black Ball: Titleist Pro V1

ow many times have you had to adjust the targets that you set yourself at the beginning of the year?

It’s all been a bit surreal, to be honest. I had a really good start to the year, and the first aim was just to secure my Tour card, which I managed to do. And then the second goal was to win an event, which I've managed to do. I've loved it.

It's been nerve-wracking at times, but I've really enjoyed it.

Open. What was that like as an experience for a European Tour rookie?

Playing in front of such big crowds was a massive learning curve for me, and, of course, it was great to be able to play alongside such a quality player as Rory and know that I have got the game to compete. Both Rory and Graeme [Storm] had some kind words to say to me afterwards, and it sort of helped me realise that I do deserve to be out here, and that I have what it takes to challenge for tournaments when I’m on my game.

Winning on your first year on tour is a dream for all players. What was the reality like at last month’s Porsche European Open, where you beat Alex Levy in a playoff?

Sleeping on an overnight lead is never easy, even more so when you’re trying to win your first European Tour event. I was a little nervous and that showed over the front nine, but I pulled myself together on the back nine and really battled hard, and was really pleased with the up-and-down on 18, which at least gave me an outside chance. Once Alex missed his putt on the 18th, I knew we had to start again, regroup, and just go with it. The whole week, tee to green, was probably the best I have played all year. I struggled a little bit on the greens at times, but it all came together at the right time.

You played in your first major at last month’s PGA Championship, and managed a top-10 finish. What was that experience like?

It was awesome. I loved every minute of it. I just tried to soak it up and take everything in. The whole set of the tournament was incredible.

You fly into the airport, you are given a car and a nice house for the week, and we were really looked after. The grandstands are much bigger, the crowds are larger – and a lot rowdier – and the golf course was a lot tougher than we play for regular tour events. I didn’t have a lot of time to plan for it, as we only found out I’d got in the week before. I managed a few practice holes with Rory on the Tuesday, and was kind of thrown straight into it.

I think if you’d have told me at the beginning of the week that I’d bag a top-10 finish in my first major, I’d have bitten your hand off. I drove the ball well, hit lots of fairways, found lots of greens, and gave myself lots of birdie putts and, on the last day, in particular, the short game kicked in, and I made lots of up and downs at vital times.

I played in some really good groups, and ended up playing some really good golf, so overall I was really happy with the week. I’m also really pleased that I’ll be back to play in it next year, regardless of my world ranking.

How much did winning events in the lower leagues help with your mindset out there?

Winning tournaments at any level is never easy, so the more times you put yourself into those kind of situations, the better you are able to handle it. I guess winning on the EuroPro Tour and the Algarve Tour helped my confidence earlier in my career. Getting in that situation of being in contention was great, so I was ready to go when I arrived on the Challenge Tour. It was a bit of a bigger stage, but I won the second event of the season, so it was nice to get that one in early. I had quite a consistent year; I didn’t miss too many cuts; and I think I have just carried that form into this season. I’ve grown in confidence every week that I’ve been out here.

You began the season out in South Africa and played alongside Rory McIlroy in the SA

How did you first get into golf?

I watched the Masters on TV with my dad when I was about 12 or 13, and badgered my dad, who wasn’t a golfer, to take me down to my local club at Bowood. When I was 16, I started taking it more seriously, and I got into the Wiltshire squad.

Then I was invited to the south west training squad. I got into the county finals playing for

Wiltshire at Ganton and holed the winning putt – the first time that Wiltshire had won it. Then I got invited to England training.

So, it’s all happened incredibly quickly really. I keep having to pinch myself. I only turned pro a couple of years ago.

What’s the reality of being a pro?

In my final year as an amateur I went to Asian Tour Q-School and European Tour Q-School just to get that experience. I didn’t get through any of them, but it really helped me learn what professional golf is like. It taught me how to play under pressure. It’s completely different to amateur golf. I enjoyed it. The standard on the Europro Tour is very high. You have 15 or 20 guys who are always up there at the top. You’re not playing on immaculate courses every week, and the weather isn’t the best, but the standard is good. You’re driving around the UK staying with players you’ve played a lot of amateur golf with, so it’s also good fun.

What about the step up from EuroPro to the Challenge Tour, to the European Tour?

It’s a big step up. Obviously there’s more travelling involved, playing in a different country each week. It was a steep learning curve, but I quite enjoy being away from home, so the travelling didn’t bother me.

I think it’s a bigger step from EuroPro to Challenge, but now, on the European Tour, I’m playing with players that I used to watch on the TV – legends of the game. Sometimes I feel a bit star struck and don’t know what to say, but essentially we are all out there to do a job, so you haven’t got time to be staring around at your heroes.

Talking of stars, how often are you mistaken for Jordan Spieth?

I don’t look anything like him, but there have been a few cases of mistaken identity because of the similarity of our names. The best was in Oman last year at the Challenge Tour Grand Final.

I won the rankings and the guy that announced me on the first tee called me ‘Jordan Spieth’, so that wasn't the best of starts. Still, there are worse players to be confused with.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2017

[17]

PENGE JOINS PRO RANKS

S

CAPTAIN BARNETT CAPTURES EPSOM GLORY

ussex’s Marco Penge turned professional on August 20, following a successful six-year amateur career that had seen him play for England at all age levels.

The 19 year old made the decision to join the paid ranks after hearing that he had not been selected for the GB&I Walker Cup team.

Penge enjoyed a superb 2016 season, with highlights including winning the Sunningdale Foursomes with his girlfriend Sophie Lamb, and finishing second in the French Amateur after losing a playoff to Spanish number one Ivan Cantero.

The Horsham-based player is attached to Golf At Goodwood, and is being sponsored by Callaway for his equipment and J Lindberg for his clothing.

He made his professional debut at the EuroPro Tour’s Fore Business Championship at East Sussex National, where he shot 76 and 77 to miss the cut by 10 shots.

E

psom Golf Club captain David Barnett pulled ranked in the Surrey venue's men’s championship after two rounds of 72 gross saw him eclipse the efforts of his 89 fellow competitors.

Barnett chose the right year in which to win the Brookes Cup for the lowest scratch score, with his four-over total beating his nearest rival, Cameron Morris, by five shots.

The handicap prize for the Roseberry Medal was won by Epsom treasurer Malcolm Walker on countback, after his score was matched by Barnett. Nett rounds of 69 and 67, for a fourunder-par total of 136, got the job done.

The trophies were handed out to the winners by Epsom’s past president and past captain, Tony Barnett, who also happens to be David’s father.

For one looking to drive somewhere different

HALL COMPLETES CLEAN SWEEP AT SOUTH HERTS

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adies European Tour star Lydia Hall completed a 100 per cent record in the WPGA One Day Series to take this year’s competition after winning the final event at South Herts Golf Club.

The South Wales-based player has finished top of the leaderboard in all of the five One Day events she has taken part in this year.

Hall, representing Hensol Golf Academy, led home the professional contingent in the seventh round at the North London venue by one shot, after carding a one-under-par 73. She was matched by Norfolk amateur Amy Taylor, and they edged out Kym Larratt (Kibworth) and Sian Evans (Kings Hill).

Hall competed in all but two WPGA One Day events this season, only missing the others through an injury and a schedule clash.

“I’m really pleased I managed to play five out of the seven events, and happy to have won or tied first in all of them,” she said. “The series has kept my golf ticking over and kept me competitive. And some of the courses we get to play have been fantastic.

"I’m going to the LPGA Tour’s Qualifying School in October, and I have quite a heavy end of year schedule, but whenever I’m home I like to support the WPGA as much as I can.”

Discover the delights of golf in France including the 2018 Ryder Cup course With Brittany Ferries Golf you can play some fine links or beautiful park-land courses, staying at comfortable hotels – and all an easy drive from our arrival ports in France.

The Ryder Cup heads to Le Golf National at Versailles from 28 - 30 September 2018, so why not play the course ahead of the big event?

If you fancy being at the event itself, as an authorised travel partner we can arrange all aspects of your trip.

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[18] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS Nick Bayly looks back at the rich and varied career of Peter Alliss, who this month celebrates the 70th anniversary of the year he became a PGA Professional

F

or those of a certain age, Peter Alliss remains the living embodiment of all things golf.

Now aged 86, and still working his magic behind the microphone – albeit on a much-reduced schedule following the BBC’s gradual retreat from golf – Alliss remains the 'Voice of Golf', despite his lack of airtime.

Although younger golf fans will only ever have known him as a commentator, Alliss was one of the most successful British golfers of the post-war era, clocking up 23 wins and eight Ryder Cup appearances in a professional playing career that spanned 28 years.

Born in 1931, Alliss was the son of Percy Alliss, a successful golfer in his own right, who finished in the top five in the Open five times between 1928 and 1936. As was the fashion in those days, professionals also worked as club pros, with Alliss Snr holding down the position at numerous clubs, starting out an assistant at Royal Porthcawl in Wales in 1919, before moving to head professional at Clyne,

followed by spells at Wanstead, Beaconsfield, Temple Newsam, and finally, Ferndown in Dorset, where he stayed from 1939 until his retirement in 1967.

With golf running through the family blood, it was only natural for Peter to follow in his father’s footsteps. Leaving school at 14, he was picked for England Boys in 1946, and turned professional a year later, aged just 16. He first worked as an assistant under his father’s tutelage at Ferndown, with the pair both playing in the 1947 Open at Hoylake, although both failed to qualify for the final rounds.

After two years of national service between 1949-51, Alliss returned to competitive action in 1952, bagging his first professional win at the Assistants' Championship, a match play tournament. After finishing ninth at the Open in 1953, his performances soon caught the eye of the Ryder Cup selectors, and he made his debut in the matches that year at Wentworth, where he lost both his matches in a

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GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2017

■ ALLISS IN ACTION AT THE 1973 OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP AT TROON

AN INSTANT NATURAL IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA, AND OVER THE AIRWAVES, ALLISS’S COMMON TOUCH AND READY WIT PROVED AN INSTANT HIT WITH THE PUBLIC

■ PETER AND HIS FATHER PERCY PLAYED IN THE OPEN TOGETHER IN 1947

narrow 6.5-5.5 defeat to America.

He won his first big event at the 1954 Daks Tournament at Little Aston, where he beat Boby Locke and Bernard Hunt with a final round 67, and over the next few years racked up a number of impressive wins, including the Spanish Open in 1955, while three years later he won the Italian, Spanish and Portuguese Opens in successive weeks – for which he won the grand total of £1,145.

After ten years working under his father at Ferndown, Alliss took on his first head professional’s job at nearby Parkstone Golf Club in 1957, following the death of Reg Whitcombe, a role he would hold for 13 years.

At the end of his first week in the new job, he won the PGA Championship, the first of three

successive victories in that coveted event.

Despite his undoubted ability, Alliss failed to produce his best form in the Open, and while managing five top-10 finishes, he never came close to winning one, with his third place behind Peter Thomson at Royal Birkdale in 1954 regarded as his nearest miss.

Although his playing career was still very much in full flow in the 1960s, Alliss was first asked to pick up a microphone at the 1961 Open, a tournament that he was also competing in. An instant natural in front of the camera, and over the airwaves, Alliss’s common touch and ready wit proved an instant hit with the public, and the last eight years of his professional career were combined with work behind the camera.

■ COMMENTATING ON THE 1985 OPEN AT ROYAL ST GEORGE'S

He retired from the professional circuit in 1969, aged 39, after suffering a serious bout of the putting yips that virtually stopped him in his tracks. "I honestly felt I could go on winning forever, and that it was a complete waste of time for anyone else bothering to turn up,” Alliss said of his sudden collapse. “Then winter arrived, Christmas came and went, and the Sunningdale Foursomes came round the following March, and the magic had gone, never to return."

The professional game’s loss was television’s gain, and it wasn’t long before Alliss was seen as the natural successor to Henry Longhurst, who had up until then been the Voice of Golf on the BBC. Mentored by Longhurst, and enjoying many of his wistful traits, an Alliss commentary is invariably memorable – and the

✓

[19]

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same can be said of many of the courses he has designed over the years. To date he has created around 50, often working in tandem with Clive Clark, including the Brabazon course at The Belfry, and the Marquess course at Woburn.

Once, when asked to name his favourite golfer, Alliss thought for a while, and then cited five-time Open champion Peter Thomson, lauding him as being ‘jaunty, rhythmical, talented and sophisticated’. It was an entirely apt description and, fittingly, could just as easily be applied to Alliss himself.

Peter Alliss is, in short, a class act, a national institution, and we should all applaud the fact he continues to work and to bring a touch of colour into an increasingly characterless game.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

[20] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

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Welwyn Garden City enjoys rich heritage, having been designed Office: 01707a 325243 Pro Shop: 01707 325525 Web: Email: denise@wgcgc.co.uk

by Fred Hawtree, andwww.wgcgc.co.uk been the club where Sir Nick Faldo learned Oaks Road, Welwyn Hertfordshire to play Mannicotts, the game. High Measuring 6,112 yardsGarden off theCity, back tees, the AL8 7BP undulating parkland layout remains a challenge for all, thanks to some lengthy par threes, long par fours, and a 600-yard par five. With year-round playability and superb greens, a friendly welcome awaits all visitors, with green fees starting from £25.

Located 10 miles from Leeds, The Bradford Golf Club’s 18-hole course, which first opened in 1923, is one of legendary architect Herbert Fowler’s finest designs. Offering stunning panoramic views across Baildon and the Rombalds Moor, the layout has recently benefitted from a thoughtful re-discovery of its heritage, enhancing the original Fowler design, with trees now forming more natural groups. The 16th and 17th holes form part of a quartet of finishing holes that are arguably the hardest in Yorkshire.

Web: welwyngardencitygolfclub.co.uk Tel: 01707 325243 Email: denise@wgcgc.co.uk

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Boasting two unique courses, the Championship and the Warren, Littlestone offers visitors the chance to play on superbly presented links layouts located on the natural undulating land between Romney Marsh and the Channel. Boasting free-draining fairways and superb greens, the contrasting courses make for a superb day’s golf at any time of the year. Visitors and societies are welcome every day, with summer green fees from £50 and society packages from £73 on The Championship and from £15 on the Warren.

Boasting two unique courses, the Championship and the Warren, Littlestone offers visitors the chance to play on superbly presented links layouts located on the natural undulating land between Romney Marsh and the Channel. With free-draining fairways and superb greens, the contrasting courses make for a superb day’s golf at any time of the year. Visitors and societies are welcome every day, with peak-time summer green fees from £80 and society packages from £70.

Founded in 1908, Frilford Heath is one of the few clubs in England to boast three 18-hole courses – the Red, Green and Blue. The 6,912-yard Red is the championship layout, having been designed by JH Taylor and hosted numerous top-class professional and amateur events, while the 6,728-yard is the newest, having opened in 1994. Visitors are welcome seven days a week, with a summer all-day golf package costing £100/£130 (wd/we).

Web: launcestongolfclub.co.uk Tel: 01566 773442 Email: secretary@launcestongolfclub.co.uk

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. . . Oxfordshire’s friendliest Golf Club

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

INTERVIEW | SEPTEMBER 2017

[21]

out there. He's saved my career, as I've said that more than once, and I give him full credit for that.

He’s always got my best interests at heart, and sometimes that's quite hard to find in a coach.

He knows when and when not to say things, and we're just very similar characters. He tells me what I need to work on, and he tells me when I need to back off. He's just a great guy. He's done wonders for my career.

You’ve just started working with a sports psychologist?

Yeah, Kev recommended this Irish guy – his name is Paul McCarthy – just before the Scottish Open.

He’s made a big impact already. Perhaps that's the little change that I needed to shake things up a little.

EURO FIGHTER

It was obviously very disappointing to lose the Solheim Cup last month, but what was your own experience like?

Hats off to the American team – they played some phenomenal golf. We played pretty well too, but they were just that bit better – holed a few more putts and got the crowds behind them, as they always do. We put a lot of red numbers on the board, and the scoring was really low, but when we made birdies one of them made an eagle. You can't be too disappointed when you play as well as that – you just have to do your best. The team atmosphere was great, and Annika [Sorenstam] did an incredible job. We had a lot of fun, and we really pulled together as a team, but we were beaten by the better side on the day.

Mel Reid discusses life competing on two tours, the Solheim Cup, and why she’s ready for the second stage of her golfing career WORDS: NICK BAYLY PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES

A

fter winning your LPGA Tour card at the end of last season, how have you found the transition to playing in the States?

It's been amazing, I love everything about it, but it's been like chalk and cheese compared to playing in Europe. Over here in Europe everyone is very friendly – it’s almost like a big family – and it’s a great tour to be a part of, but the LPGA is more of a business. Everyone knows that. People kind of tend to bring their entourage and stick within their clique. As long as you kind of find your network of friends, it's amazing. You get treated very differently out there, purely because there’s more money.

The golf courses are in amazing condition, and the standard of play is unbelievable. The strength in depth is incredible, which is amazing to be around, but if you're not on your game, your weaknesses get shown up very, very quickly. The way the courses are set up does sometimes turn it into a bit of a putting competition, which isn’t necessarily my strength, so I wish they would put more emphasis on accuracy and length off the tee. I like to think I’m one of the better ball strikers out there, but that’s not being rewarded in the way that it might be if the courses were set up differently. For instance, it’s rare that a par five isn’t reachable in two, even for the average hitters, which does turn it in a putting shoot out. The standard of wedge play is also incredible – they’re deadly from 100 yards and in.

Does this feel like the beginning of the second stage of your career?

Yes, in many ways it does. I felt that at 29 I just didn't want to spend another season in Europe. I was getting stale, and it wasn’t motivating me any more. Playing on the LPGA Tour has definitely made me want to become a better player, and to work harder. It has given me a new drive for practising, and for playing, and I kind of feel like I'm a little bit of a kid again, learning all these new things. Getting through Q School was probably one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, because I felt that it really was a make or break time in my career.

You’ve been on one winning and two losing Solheim teams now – are they complete opposites in terms of how they feel, or do you judge them by your own performances?

Was it that black and white?

Yes, it was. I was losing my motivation to compete in Europe, as there were just too few opportunities to play, and we weren’t playing for very much money. It is hard to make ends meet, even for the girls that are playing well and winning tournaments. If I hadn’t got my LPGA Tour card, I would have to have had some serious thoughts about doing something else.

How are you coping with a transatlantic schedule?

It is a hard adjustment, but more from a lifestyle point of view than from a performance angle.

I've played with these girls for years. I know what it's like. The hardest thing for me is the travel. My family, my friends, my life is in the UK. I'm travelling back and forth every week, and that's probably been the hardest thing. Coming back on a Monday, having a couple of days' rest, catching up with my coach, and then I'm back out to the States again on a Sunday. That's probably been the hardest thing for me.

Have you considered moving to America?

I have thought about moving out there next year, as I’ve got some good friends out in West Palm Beach in Florida, but we’ll have to see how things pan out. I don’t want to be playing golf into my mid-40s, so the next 10 years are when I’ve really got to kick on, and if I’m going to do that, I am probably going to have to move to America.

It’s been a strange season for you in many ways, with a win at the Vic Open on the LET earlier in the year, and then a string of missed cuts over the summer. How comfortable do you feel with your game right now?

IF I HADN'T GOT MY LPGA TOUR CARD THIS YEAR, I WOULD HAVE HAD SOME SERIOUS THOUGHTS ABOUT DOING SOMETHING ELSE WITH MY LIFE Yeah, the win at the Vic Open was a great confidence booster at the start of the season. I hadn’t won since 2014, so it was great to get that off my back. Whenever you win, it really puts a spring in your step, and it certainly helped seal my place in the Solheim Cup team and set me up for the year.

But then I put my back out at the Australian Open in February. It was a freak injury really, as I did it while sneezing, of all things. The sudden spasm put my back into an awkward angle and irritated one of my lumbar discs, which sounds ridiculous. Because of the pain I was in, I wasn't able to play in Phoenix in March, and I probably shouldn't have played the following week’s Kia Classic, and definitely shouldn't have played ANA Inspiration after that, but felt like I had to because it was a major championship.

I struggled for a while, and then I played the Kingsmill Championship in May, and then missed three cuts in a row by a single shot, which was very frustrating.

The difference between missing a cut and contending is very, very small, and I feel like I've been very close, but it's just not quite happened for me. I've spent a lot of time with Kev [her coach, Kevin Craggs] working on things, and I feel extremely comfortable with my swing. I’m just not holing as many putts as I would like.

You've worked with Kevin for quite a while now. Can you talk about your relationship with him, and what he's brought to your game?

I can't give Kev enough credit.

He's like a second father to me really. I’m very close to him and his family. In my opinion, he's one of the best coaches

Yes, it’s a weird one. I didn’t play very well at Killeen in 2013, yet we won. Of course, I was buzzing that we’d won, but on the other hand I was disappointed in my own performance.

And then I was unbeaten in Germany, yet the team lost. The defeat was very hard to take, especially with what went on that week. It wasn’t a very enjoyable week for lots of reasons.

And then this time, I thought I played ok, but didn’t score as many points, and we lost, but it seemed like a very positive experience given the circumstances. All three felt very different for very different reasons.

The LET is obviously going through a difficult period, with few tournaments and a lack of decent prize money. Do you think that played a part in the Solheim defeat?

It’s hard to see how it didn’t. Floryntena Parker came in on the back of playing in only three or four tournaments, which is hardily ideal preparation. I feel so sorry for those girls who’ve just come on tour, and had virtually no competitive golf to play before the summer.

Your turn 30 this month – is that much of a psychological hurdle for you?

Turning 30 doesn’t bother me to be honest.

I’ve been on tour for 10 years now, but I still feel fresh and fit. If anything, I feel like I’ve got a few years to catch up, as I kind of lost myself for a while following my mum’s death In 2012, which obviously set me back. I certainly didn’t think I’d have to wait until I was 29 before I had my rookie year on the LPGA Tour, so I’m a long way behind where I thought I’d be, but life sometimes doesn’t pan out the way you expected.

Now, I’m looking to knuckle down over the next 10 years and see where it takes me. If I’m winning majors at 40 years of age, that’s just the way I’m going to have to do it.

[22] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

VIRGIN AND SKYCADDIE REWARD AMATEUR SUCCESS V

watch for completing the 72-hole MacMillan Cancer Support Golf Challenge with three friends. Said Matt: “Having started at 4am, we finally finished just after 8pm, finishing with three pars and a bogey, which wasn't bad for somewhere in the region of our 350-450th shots of the day! My Fitbit had calculated that I had done 51,500 steps and 25 miles in the 16 hours from start to finish. So irgin Atlantic’s online golf league, Flying far, we have raised over £1,200, with Club Swingers, rewards its top golfers of more to be collected." the season with an all-expenses paid trip to an Over the course of the season, overseas final. But as part of the programme, the SkyCaddie have also recognised such airline and partner SkyCaddie have also set up a achievements as club championship monthly Roll of Honour Award, which recognises and club knockout wins, but one of more personal amateur golf achievements, from the most impressive achievements getting your handicap down to single figures to honoured was that of Frances Millar, being made club captain. following her fabulous win in the James Holmes, SkyCaddie’s UK & European Scottish Senior Ladies Strokeplay Sales Manager, said: “Each year the team at Flying competition at Rosemount Golf Club Swingers give golfers tremendous incentives Course in Blairgowrie, where she to get involved with the programme, befitting ■ SKYCADDIE PRIZE WINNER DALE BROOMFIELD sealed the win with a birdie in the Virgin Atlantic’s status as a world-class brand. sudden death playoff.

And each day, SkyCaddie helps millions of golfers Explained Millar: "The even better news is that winning the competition has led play better and enjoy the game more at their home clubs, so sponsoring the Roll to me being selected for the Scottish Seniors Team, so I am heading off to Slovakia Of Honour – which champions their achievements in everyday events – is very to play in the European Championships, and then down to Wales at the beginning appropriate in our case.” of October to play in the Home Internationals."

One such achievement was that of Dale Broomfield, who won the Caribbean Golf Society 'Fix-Up' Trophy at Longcliffe Golf Club earlier this year, and now proudly sports a SkyCaddie SW2 GPS watch as his reward from SkyCaddie and The SkyCaddie Roll of Honour Award runs all season through to the end of Virgin Atlantic.

September. To apply, you must be a registered Flying Club Swinger. Find out Another winner was Matt Baker, who was awarded a SkyCaddie SW2 GPS more at www.flyingclubgolfleague.com.

BRACKLEY POWERS HOME AT PRINCE’S IN ‘RIP IT FOR DEREK’ PRO-AM

M

anston Golf Centre’s Max Brackley shot a seven-underpar 65 at Prince’s Golf Club to win the RIP It For Derek Memorial Pro-Am by two shots.

The Pro-Am is held at the Kent links club each year to celebrate the memory of the late Derek Barbour, who was Prince’s head professional from 1998 to 2006.

Starting at the 18th on the Shore/ Dunes layout in a shotgun start, Brackley was soon heading into red figures, notching up a string of birdies through the third, fourth and fifth. He then added an eagle at the seventh, and another birdie at the ninth, to reach six-under-par for 10 holes.

Although he dropped two shots at the 10th, Brackley recovered with

The

East BErkshirE

Golf Club

a birdie on the 12th and another eagle on the 15th. With two more pars, he finished on 65 to claim the title ahead of Benn Barham, whose impressive 67 still left him trailing by two. Grouped on three under were Andy Raitt. James Ablett, Mark James and Guy Woodman.

Despite all this impressive firepower, it was Quin Direct’s Kyle

Kelsall who led his three amateurs to victory in the team event with a total of 18 under par, and as the top team, they each walked away with a GoKart Trolley, courtesy of Sandy Catford from the Kent-based electric

SOUTHERN STUDENTS DOMINATE GREENKEEPER AWARD SHORTLIST

E

ight of the 12 greenkeepers shortlisted for the 2017 Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards represent golf clubs from the south east of England.

Graham Hastie (Stoneham), Levi Pethick (Stoneham), Matthew Kitson (Royal Mid Surrey), Michael Budd (Westerham), and Nick Machin (Royal Cinque Ports) have all been shortlisted for the prestigious title, which is now in its 29th year and comes with the prize of a all-expenses paid sixweek residential turf management study course at the University of Massachusetts in the US; a trip to the Golf Industry Show; and a visit to the Toro factory. The sixth shortlisted student is Chloe Gallagher from Ramside in Durham.

trolley firm.

Rob McGuirk, Director of Golf at Prince’s, was delighted with yet another huge show of support from the 26 teams that took part in the event. He said: “This is always a special day in the PGA in England (South)’s schedule, as Derek was one of us and passed away tragically young. I’d like to say another very big thank you to the players, our supporters, to the club and to the PGA, who have made this day such a great success.”

R E M M SU R E L Z Z I S

Golf Days 2017

Coffee and Full English Breakfast 18 Holes of Golf • Lunch

www.eastberkshiregolfclub.com

Every 12th golfer goes FREE

£70.00 per person

For more information please contact us on 01344 772041 or email: office@eastberkshiregolfclub.com

East Berkshire Golf Club Ravenswood Avenue, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6BD Telephone: 01344 772041 • Fax: 01344 777378 • Email: office@eastberkshiregolfclub.com

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NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2017

SENIORS BAG SILVER IN SLOVAKIA

COTTESMORE DUO WIN PGA PRO-CAPTAIN CHALLENGE

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ngland’s senior women won the silver medal at the European Team Championships in Slovakia. Top seeds for the match play stages at Skalica Golf Resort, England eased their way to the final, however, their gold medal campaign ended twhen they were beaten 3.5-1.5 by France in a four club, swirling wind.

The England foursomes pairing of Cheshire’s Caroline Berry and Wkye Green’s Lulu Housman were unbeaten in their three matches for the week, winning their final game 4&3, but the

French always had the upper hand in the singles, and won the three points necessary to take the title by beating Fiona Edmond, Aileen Greenfield and Julie Brown. Jackie Foster’s game was declared a half.

revor Pigram and Cottesmore Golf Club professional Calum Callan won the South B qualifying event for the SkyCaddie PGA Pro-Captain Challenge held at Royal Mid-Surrey Golf Club, after a thrilling finish, which saw a three-way tie at the top of the leaderboard.

Pigram and Callan carded a seven-under-par round at the Richmond venue on their way to a total of 42 points, which put them ■ COTTESMORE PRO CALUM CALLAN level with Graham Laing and Alan Blake (North Wilts), and Richard Beadles and Chris Bartram (Royal Worlington & Newmarket), But the Cottesmore duo’s back nine of 32 earned them victory and a place in the final, which will be held in Morocco in November.

“It’ll be a fitting way to end my captain’s year, which ends the first week in December, particularly after the support Calum’s given me at the club,” said 10-handicapper Pigram, who was playing off 13 at the start of the year, and is one of the club’s youngest captains at 45 years of age.

“We didn’t think our score would be good enough, and then we didn’t think our back nine would win it, but it did,” said Callan.

“But Trevor’s been very steady and plays better away from home rather than at Cottesmore, where he has things to do. It’s a rare thing for a player to improve in his captain’s year. But he’s a wise man – he had couple of lessons off me at the start of the season!”

AMERICAN GOLF CROWNS JUNIOR CHAMPIONS 2017

T

[23]

he fourth annual American Golf Junior Championship in association with Ping came to its climax last month as the regional winners headed to Gainsborough Golf Club in Lincolnshire to compete for the coveted championship titles.

Ten-year-old Aaron Mohun from Chester took the overall title, as well as the boys’ handicap category, with a score of 41 points.

Mohun, who has previously taken part in the competition in the Star of the Future category, was delighted with his performance.

“It was third time lucky for me, and I have loved every minute of it. I made some good shot choices on the course and it really paid off. It feels awesome to be the overall American Golf Junior Champion.

■ OVERALL CHAMPION AARON MOHUN

I’d like to thank American Golf and Ping for holding such a great event, and I can’t wait to come back and defend my title next year.”

Madeleine Smith from Nottinghamshire won the girls' title by three points. A nett eagle on the 16th was certainly a highlight for the Southwell youngster, who plays most of her golf at Norwood Park.

The gross competition was won by three-handicapper Nathan Newton, whose impressive three over par to score saw him rack up 33 points. The 15 year old won on countback from Keene Honer.

The Stars of the Future competition was won by Ireland’s Ollie McEvoy and Sam McIntyre from Swillington. Both players, who won the Under 8 and Over 8 respectively, put together a 9-hole

round of 40. McIntyre’s effort was particularly impressive, as he won the under 8’s last year and moved up an age category to repeat his win.

Daniel Gathercole, director of marketing at American Golf, said: “The golf, sportsmanship and camaraderie on show has been first class. Some of the best junior golfers in the UK & Ireland have turned out to play in the championship this year, so the competition has been intense.

Ping have been superb hosts once again, and from all the juniors and from American Golf, we can’t thank them enough for their hospitality.”

Highlights of the American Golf Junior Championship will be shown on Sky Sports in October.

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For more information or to book Phone: 01628 816 161 Email: sales@harleyfordgolf.co.uk Harleyford Golf Club Marlow LTD, Harleyford Estate, Henley Road, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 2SP

[24] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

MEHMET MAKES WAVES WITH TEAM WOODWARD

Golf News catches up with 20-year-old Ladies European Tour rookie Inci Mehmet, the Surreybased professional whose fledgling career is being backed by one of English sport’s most successful coaches, Sir Clive Woodward

WORDS: APRIL TOD PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES

W

ith no guaranteed income, and very little prize money to play for, it’s no wonder that so few young female British golfers ever make it to the very top of the sport these days, unless they have strong financial support behind them.

You can have all the talent in the world, but if you’re unable to pay your way to tournaments, take yourself off to warm weather training, or pay for the best coaches, your odds of achieving success at the highest levels are severely reduced.

Few British women players can even consider a professional career without a serious corporate sponsor or a wealthy relative, so it’s no surprise to find that Inci Mehmet, one of the latest recruits to the Ladies European Tour has ticked at least one of those boxes.

The 20 year old from Richmond in Surrey has always looked a likely candidate for the paid ranks, working her way up through the junior Surrey squads to the England teams at girls and elite international level, before she made the decision to turn professional last year, when she had got her handicap down to plus-four.

She turned pro safe in the knowledge that she would be able to pursue her goals in golf uninhibited by the burden of finding enough cash to pay for caddies, coaches and travel, after being signed up to a player management company run by Sir Clive Woodward, the former World Cup-winning England rugby coach, who has carved himself out a new career managing the careers of the stars of tomorrow.

Inspired to take up the game after watching Tiger Woods on TV, Mehmet, who is half Korean, first picked up a club when she was five, begging her mother to take her down to her local driving range, where she never tired of hitting balls. She was fortunate enough to attend a school in Kingston, Tiffin Girls, which included golf on its curriculum, so many hours on free afternoons were spent either on the practice range hitting balls or competing in junior events.

By her mid-teens Mehmet had won tournaments at every age level and was ranked well inside the top 10 girl amateurs in the country. Her performances soon caught the eye of Sir Clive, a keen golfer, and a fellow member of Royal Mid-Surrey, where Mehmet is now based.

It was after initial discussions with her parents that Woodward stepped in as her manager, creating what is termed as a ‘package deal’, which Mehmet happily admits is the best thing that could have happened

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to her. Her career is now mapped out and masterminded by Woodward, something any youngster venturing into the tough world of professional golf would give their right hand for – if it wasn’t such an essential body part for golf.

Not all have it so easy. Georgia Hall, a year Mehmet's senior, had to struggle to make ends meet in her early playing days, and was often forced to turn down tournaments in America when money was tight. Hall is now one of Britain’s top up-and-coming talents, and was one of the first players to nail down a place in Europe’s Solheim Cup after coming third in the British Open.

It is Woodward’s renowned business acumen and skill at spotting potential talent that has paved the way for Mehmet’s future. After finishing 12th at the Ladies European Tour Final Qualifying in Morocco in December, Mehmet earned her full card for 2017. Sadly, there have been very limited opportunities for her, and all the other new LET recruits to make an instant impact, due to a collapse in the schedule, but a 14th place in her first event, the Lalla Meryem Cup, and 28th in the Mediterranean Ladies Open were evidence that she was far from being out of her depth at this new level. Earlier this summer, she made the cut in Thailand Champiosnhip in July, while in the altogether more competitive Scottish Ladies Open, she opened with a one-under-par 71 before disappointing weekend rounds saw her drop into a tie for 68th.

These are clearly early days for Mehmet – whose nickname amongst her friends is ‘Spider’ for obvious reasons – but it helps that she is able to focus completely on her golf and leave everything else to Woodward and his team, which currently includes swing coach Dan Grieves (who is also Charley Hull’s short game coach), fitness trainer Neal Diman, and nutritionist Alex Manos, while her business affairs are looked after by Vicky Cummins and Alastair Reed from IMG. Finally, the important role of caddie and travelling companion has been placed on the shoulders of Daisy McVie, a close friend of Mehmet’s. The entire package is paid for through Woodward’s company, ensuring that Mehmet is never short of money.

Bright, articulate and, in this shallow commercial world we live in, attractive, it’s easy to seethis talented young golfer prompted Woodward to dig into his pockets, and with the game to back her undoubted ambition, it surely won’t be too long before this particular ‘Spider’ starts catching the headlines at the very top of the women’s ranks.

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[26] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

TYRRELL HATTON

Tyrrell gets his season back into gear with a third place in Switzerland, while a return to Harleyford Golf Club to host his own tournament brings back memories of where it all began

IT’S BEEN A RELATIVELY quiet month for me since the end of the major season, and it has been nice to spend some time at home recharging the batteries, catching up with family and friends, settling into our new house, and, of course, putting in some practice in an effort to turn around my season.

I finished off the major year at the PGA Championship in pretty much the same form as I started at the Masters back in April, shooting a poor first round and then leaving myself too much to do to make the cut.

Missing all four cuts in the majors wasn’t quite the goal I set myself at the beginning of the year, so in that respect it’s been hugely disappointing, so I’ve just got to knuckle down and come back next year and do better.

There’s no denying that the majors are special tournaments, and the ones we all want to do well in, but sometimes I think I put too much pressure on myself to perform on these weeks, rather than just playing my natural game.

My putter misbehaved at Quail Hollow, much as it has done the whole season, and it’s been hard to try and get some confidence back overnight, so I’m just trying to remain patient.

I had pretty much a full month off after the PGA, and came back at the Omega European Masters in Switzerland. I’ve always loved playing at Crans – it’s a beautiful spot and the course seems to suit my eye. I’ve had some good results there in the past, so I was delighted to finally get my season somewhere near to being back on track by finishing third there. I was never really within touching distance of the leaders on the final round, as I birdied four of the last six holes to get myself up the leaderboard, but it was a solid week, and a huge turnaround

I HAD PRETTY MUCH A FULL MONTH OFF AFTER THE PGA, AND CAME BACK AT THE OMEGA EUROPEAN MASTERS IN SWITZERLAND. I’VE ALWAYS LOVED PLAYING AT CRANS – IT’S A BEAUTIFUL SPOT AND THE COURSE SEEMS TO SUIT MY EYE in relation to how I’ve been playing this summer.

I shot my lowest round of the season so far, a six-under-par 64, to tie for the lead after the first round, and although things unravelled a bit on the back nine of the second round, I was pleased to shoot 68 and 66 over the weekend to get myself back into things, especially with the weather delay on Saturday. It was properly cold out there on Saturday, and I was wearing three layers,

■ TYRRELL HOSTED HIS OWN JUNIOR TOURNAMENT AT HARLEYFORD GOLF CLUB EARLIER THIS MONTH

although sadly I forgot my bobble hat! I won’t make that mistake at the Dunhill next month.

I had a new caddie on the bag in Switzerland, as my old caddie, Chris [Rice], and I parted company after the PGA. It was his decision to call it a day, and after listening to what he had to say, I thought it was probably for the best.

My new caddie, Jonathan Bell, is an old mate of mine, and we have known each other since our junior days competing on the amateur circuit. He’s a great player, and has been playing on the EuroPro Tour, although he found it tough financially, and has been doing some odd jobs to try and get some money together to get back on tour. He’s agreed to caddy for me for the rest of the season, so I hope for both our sakes that I can get back into form. We worked really well together at Crans, and he knows my game really well, so fingers crossed.

One of the highlights of my downtime between tournaments was hosting the Tyrrell Hatton Juniors Masters back at my club, Harleyford. The tournament had been a long time in the planning, and required lots of help from the club and my sponsors, to get it off the ground, but we had a really good turnout, and hopefully it can push on next year and become even bigger and better.

The greenkeeping team did a brilliant job in presenting the course in top condition, and we did our best to give it a proper tournament feel. I watched all the competitors tee off, and it was great to see so many good young players out there. Twothirds of the field were category one players,

and it was brilliant to see Harleyford’s Taylor Paul, who I’ve known since he was eight, take the title. He’s only 15, but he equalled my course record 63 en route to victory, and I’m sure he’s destined for great things.

He’s just been accepted on Stoke Park’s scholarship scheme, so I expect I’ll be seeing a lot more of him when he comes over to practise during the off season.

I would have loved to have been able to play in events like that when I was a kid. I played in all the usual county tournaments, but nothing quite like that. I do remember winning the U15 section of the Faldo Series some 10 years ago, when we played at Walton Heath. I think I beat the score of the U21 players that day, and won through to the finals in Brazil.

I’ve now got two weeks off, and then a big run of tournaments, starting with the British Masters at Close House in Newcastle, then up to St Andrews for the Dunhill Links, where I’m hoping to defend my title, and then off to Italy for the Rolex Series event.

It’s coming to the business end of the year now, so I need to keep improving my world ranking so I can nail my place down for next year’s majors.

YOU CAN FOLLOW TYRRELL ON TWITTER @TYRRELLHATTON PARTNERS

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JUNE GOLF WEEK 28 May – 4th June

Price: Grand-mediterraneo: 795 euros Ithea Suites: 685 euros

Price: Grand-mediterraneo: 770 euros Ithea Suites: 645 euros

Price: Grand-mediterraneo: 740 euros Ithea Suites: 635 euros

Price: Grand-mediterraneo: 805 euros Ithea Suites: 685 euros

Single supplement GM: 116 euros IS: 35 euros

Single supplement GM: 116 euros IS: 35 euros

Single supplement GM: 116 euros IS: 35 euros

Single supplement GM: 116 euros IS: 35 euros

Itinerary Mon: Arrival Tues: 3 Ball Best Ball Wed: Pairs Betterball Thurs: Free Day for sunbathing/ sightseeing, or some extra golf Fri: Individual Stableford Sat: Stableford Waltz Sun: Free Day as Thurs.

Mon: Departure

Itinerary: Mon: Arrival Tues: Practice Round Wed: 1st qualifying Round Thurs: 2nd Qualifying Round Fri: Ist Round Matchplay or Ind. Stableford Sat: Semi Finals Matchplay or Ind. Stableford Sun: Finals Matchplay or Ind. Stableford Mon: Departure

Itinerary: Mon: Arrival Tues: 3 Ball Best Ball Wed: Pairs Stableford Thurs: 1st round Individual Fri: Stableford Waltz Sat: 2nd Round Individual Sun: Team Sixes Mon: Departure

Itinerary Mon: Arrival Tues: 3 Ball Best Ball Wed: Pairs Betterball Thurs: Free Day for sunbathing/ sightseeing, or some extra golf Fri: Individual Stableford Sat: Stableford Waltz Sun: Free Day as Thurs.

Mon: Departure

ACCOMMODATION CHOICES Grand-mediterraneo 5 star Grand mediterraneo is a beautiful 5 star hotel, less than a mile from the course and overlooking the bay at Ermones.

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The price per event includes 7 Nights Bed & Breakfast 3 Dinners in the hotel 7 Days unlimited golf Airport Transfers Prizes Drinks Receptions

Ithea Suites A smaller hotel where every room has a fantastic sea view. Free transfers to the club are included and the friendly staff and beautiful views make this a favourite of many golfers.

The price per event includes 7 Nights on Partial All-inclusive.

This means Breakfast, lunch and all local drinks are included 7 Days unlimited golf Airport transfers Prizes Drinks Receptions

ALSO INCLUDED: On both Golf Weeks we have PGA Professionals there to help you, whether you just need a quick tip, or want to do some serious work on you game.

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GOLF WEEKS INTERNATIONAL

“I have been involved in golf events in Corfu for over 30 years, and it still remains one of my favourite places to play golf. The course is never too busy, so golf there is at a pleasant pace, and totally hassle free. I want these weeks to be fun golf with a bit of competition involved, a chance to enjoy great weather, meet new friends and I am personally at every event to ensure everything is to your complete satisfaction. If you would like any more details, please give me a ring or drop me an email.

I hope you choose Corfu for your next golfing holiday.”

KEN STEVELY

For a full brochure or further details, contact Ken Stevely on 07803 921737, or email ken@golfweeksinternational.com for details of similar events in other locations go to www.golfweeksinternational.com

[28] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

EUROPE WINS JACQUES LÉGLISE TROPHY The Continent of Europe captured the Jacques Léglise Trophy for a second successive year after defeating Great Britain & Ireland 15½-9½ at Ballybunion Golf Club in Ireland. Leading their opponents 6½-5½ at the start of the second day, the morning foursomes were tied 2-2 to give Europe a single point advantage at 8½-7½ going into this afternoon’s singles matches, and pressed home their advantage, taking seven points from a possible 10 to take the title.

Next year’s match will be played at Kytäjä Golf in Finland.

WEST HILL PAIR WIN PING PLATE FINAL Surrey golfers Helen Atkinson and Tina Thomas won the plate final of the 2017 Ping Women’s Fourball Betterball tournament. The West Hill pairing scored 45 points over Ping’s Gainsborough Golf Club to finish two points ahead of Jane Monk and Karen Cook from Newmarket.

LENCART WINS BOYS AMATEUR Portugal’s Pedro Lencart defeated defending champion Falko Hanisch 5&4 to win the Boys Amateur Championship at Nairn Golf Club in Scotland.

Lencart, who won the R&A’s Junior Open in 2016, becomes the first player since Sergio Garcia to win both titles. He will now play in the Amateur Championship at Royal Aberdeen and Murcar Links, and gains an exemption into final qualifying for the 2018 Open Championship as a result of his victory.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

FERNDOWN‘S ALLISS INVITATIONAL RAISES £27,000 FOR GOOD CAUSES T

he annual Alliss Invitational Charity Golf Day held at Ferndown Golf Club in Dorset once again helped to raise more funds for local worthy causes.

The 31st renewal of the popular event, which was held on September 4, raised £27,000 for the Peter Alliss Wheelchair Crusade and the Ferndown captain’s chosen charities – YMCA Bournemouth, Bournemouth Reclaim and Julia’s House.

A total of 23 teams teed off with a shotgun start on Ferndown’s championship Course. Winners of the golf day were ‘Scully B’ – Martyn Thompson, Darren Pestell, Richard

Smith and Tom Duck, with 87 points.

An auction held after the dinner was run by Ager Brown, with donations including a luxury apartment in Turkey and a tour of the BBC South Today studios, thanks to Anthony Husband.

Ian Walton, general manager of Ferndown Golf Club, said: “We would like to thank everyone involved with the golf day raising money to support the life changing work that Peter’s charity does on a daily basis. A big thank you to Peter for his ongoing support contributing to the success of the golf day year on year.”

The tournament, which was

GROVES GRABS GLORY IN SWEDEN

A

disabled golfer from Sussex has forced his way into the world’s top 30 after winning an international tournament held in Sweden.

George Groves, the junior captain at Copthorne Golf Club, represented England at the Swedish Invitation Golf Tournament, which was held at Bokskogen Golf Club Malmo from August 10-12.

And the 18 year old, who was experiencing his first taste of international competition, came away with the trophy after finishing one stroke ahead of his nearest challenger.

■ A TOTAL OF 23 TEAM TURNED OUT FOR THIS YEAR'S EVENT, RAISING OVER £27,000

previously known as the Salterns Alliss Merlo Competition, has existed in various formats and under different sponsorships for over 30 years, and has raised over £1 million for good causes in that time.

The funds raised from last year’s event have so far provided two power packs for manual wheelchairs, one stroller, one specialised seating system, five walkers, two standers, and three wheelchairs.

The tournament attracted a field of 72 players from 12 different countries, with competitors travelling from as far afield as Japan, Australia, Turkey and South Africa.

Groves started the event in impressive fashion, winning the Pro-Am, and carried that form into the main 54-hole tournament. However, he looked set for second place at best halfway through the final round, when Sweden’s Stefan Mörkholt held a five-shot lead going into the back nine. However, the home player suffered a disasterous quadruple-bogey on the 11th hole, opening the door for Groves. Sharing the lead as they stepped onto the final tee, Groves holed out for par, while Mörkholt could only managed a bogey, thus ensuring the Sussex player took the title.

Groves is currently ranked sixth in the European Disabled Golf Association’s order of merit and his win in Sweden has propelled him into the world’s top 30.

Playing off a three handicap, Groves has Erb’s Palsy, a condition that affects the nerves in the upper arm.

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THE FALDO Coffee & breakfast rolls followed by 18 holes of golf, return to the club house for a 1 course lunch.

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GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2017 [29]

MUSWELL HILL DUO SEAL SKYCADDIE FINALS SPOT

M

uswell Hill Golf Club sealed a trip to Morocco for the SkyCaddie PGA ProCaptain Challenge final, after some ‘tough words’ boosted their victory charge.

Captain Phil Matthews and PGA professional David Wilton triumphed in a close fought contest, which the north London pairing won on countback.

They amassed 43 points after a seven-under-par round at East Herts Golf Club.

They joined Clacton’s Sam Teer and Peter Hewett and the Stanmore’s duo of James Reynolds and Lee Patterson at the top of the leaderboard. But Matthews and Wilton won, thanks to a better back nine which saw them home in 30 shots and included a nett eagle at the 17th hole.

Matthews admitted he and Wilton knew they had to up their game after the first nine holes if they were to stand a chance of winning after making two bogeys.

“The cup of tea at the halfway house was timely – we were able to rethink our objectives and have some tough words with each other. It was all done in good fun, but we knew we needed birdies from at that point,” said nine-handicapper Matthews. “Then David went and rolled in three birdies in the next four holes, and I came in with nine points from the last three holes, so between us we dovetailed nicely. It all worked out perfectly."

ENGLAND TRIO TARGET WORLD GIRLS’ TITLE

■ MUSWELL HILL PRO DAVID WILTON

They will now play in the £22,000 final, in association with Golfplan, which will be held between November 21-22 at Mazagan Beach Resort.

HERBERT BAGS BB&O ORDER OF MERIT

PLUMB LOWERS LIPHOOK RECORD

C

D

harlie Herbert won the BB&O’s Junior Order of Merit with a tournament to spare, following a season that saw him pick up four wins.

The Harewood Downs youngster picked up victories at Bearwood Lakes, Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, and Tadmarton Heath, amongst other good performances, to give him a final points total of 69.5.

With the title secured, Herbert was given the trophy ahead of the final event of the 2017 Junior Order of Merit, the Tyrrell Hatton Junior Masters, with Hatton himself being on hand to present the trophy.

■ HERBERT WITH TYRRELL HATTON

Harrison Arnold (Castle Royle) secured second place with 52 points, following a victory at East Berkshire and second-place finishes in the Frilford Heath Junior Gold Medal and the Luke Donald Salver at Beaconsfield.

Surrey’s Annabell Fuller is among a trio of champions will represent England at the World Junior Girls’ Championship at Marshes Golf Club, Canada, from September 24-29. The 15-year-old from Roehampton, who is the reigning the English U16 girls’ champion, will be joined in Ottawa by Lily May Humphreys, also 15, from Stoke by Nayland in Essex, and Bel Wardle, 17, from Prestbury in Cheshire. The World Junior Girls’ Championship is played over 72 holes.

Wardle competed last year and finished eighth.

HARMISON WINS ENGLISH DISABILITY OPEN

orset amateur Alice Plumb captured the Liphook Ladies’ Scratch Cup after setting a new course record at the Hampshire club.

The plus-one handicapper from Sherborne Golf Club started measuredly, shooting an even-par 72, but came alight in the afternoon, firing a six-under 66 for a 138 total. The round, which included eight birdies and two ■ ALICE PLUMB bogeys, eclipsed the 67 shot by Rachel Drummond in 2009, and saw her finish four shots clear of the field.

Cornish teammates Georgia Price (Bude & North Cornwall) and Emily Toy (Carlyon Bay) finished tied second on 142.

Plumb, who has been a stalwart of the Dorset county team for several years, attended university in Florida, before returning home to work on her game with her coach at Sherborne, where she works in the pro shop. She plans to attend the LET’s qualifying school this autumn.

Northumberland’s Kevin Harmison won the 2017 English Disability Open after beating Sussex’s George Groves on countback at The Warwickshire Golf Club. The two players were tied on 151 after two rounds on the Earls and Kings Courses, but Harmison won courtesy of his superior score over the last three holes.

YORKSHIRE CAPTURE BOYS’ CROWN Yorkshire powered their way to victory in the English Boys’ County Championship, beating Berks, Bucks & Oxon 7-2 in the final day’s title decider at Northamptonshire County. In the three-day round robin, also involving Staffordshire and Somerset, the northerners were in impressive form, conceding just 4.5 points in their 27 games. The performance gave Yorkshire its first title since 2012, their eighth overall – and wiped out the memories of last year, when they lost by just half a point.

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USA ROMPS TO WALKER CUP WIN T

he United States won back the Walker Cup from Great Britain & Ireland in an unprecedented 19-7 runaway victory at Los Angeles Country Club in California.

The match was tied at 2-2 after Saturday's morning foursomes, but the home side dominated that afternoon's singles to open an 8-4 lead. They then won Sunday's foursomes 3-1, and the final singles matches 8-2 to secure a comfortable win.

Three of the home team’s players - Collin Morikawa, Doug Ghim and Maverick McNealy – won all four of their matches, a first in Walker Cup history – to lead the United States to a comfortable win in the biennial amateur matches.

Eighteen-year-old Norman Xiong, the youngest player in the competition, also came close to coming away with a perfect record from his four matches, before halving his singles match with England’s Scott Gregory. Xiong had been two up with two holes to play before the Hampshire man caught him.

It was a big turnaround from two years ago, when GB&I won 16.5-9.5 at Royal Lytham & St Annes. The 19 points for the Americans matched the most ever in Walker Cup history. That came in 1993, when the United States won 19-5 at Interlachen.

Morikawa beat British Amateur champion Harry Ellis 2&1 to cap his perfect weekend. "It's something special. and you can't really explain what it is," Morikawa said. "I wasn't really nervous on the first tee, in the first shot for the US on Saturday morning, but you just kind of are excited and thrilled that you can get out there and hit a tee ball for your country."

Morikawa teamed up with Xiong to win foursomes matches on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Both won their singles matches on Saturday afternoon.

Morikawa was two down after three holes, before winning four conseuctuve holes to take control. It helped, too, when Ellis bogeyed the par-3 11th.

"I've never really gone undefeated in one of these team events, and just to have some momentum to know that I can do it against these guys. These guys are the best players around the country and the entire world, really," he said.

Morikawa and Xiong got the rout going Saturday morning when they beat Ellis and Alfie Plant 8&7 in a foursomes match, the largest margin for an 18-hole match at the Walker Cup.

■ THE AMERICAN TEAM CELEBRATE ITS BIG-MARGIN WIN AT LOS ANGELES COUNTRY CLUB, WHICH SAW THREE PLAYERS WIN ALL FOUR OF THEIR MATCHES

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Ghim beat Matthew Jordan 3&1 in Sunday's singles, and McNealy beat Plant 4&2. Ghim and McNealy teamed up to beat Jordan and Robert MacIntyre in a morning foursomes match.

They also paired up to win a foursomes match on Saturday, as well as their singles matches.

The United States went into the afternoon singles matches needing only 2.5 points to win, and it got them quickly. Braden Thornberry crushed Paul McBride, 6&5, and with Xiong assured of halving his match, Stewart Hagestad won 2&1 against Hampshire’s Jack Singh Brar to clinch the victory.

The rest of the matches contributed to the huge victory margin. The Americans won seven of 10 singles matches Sunday, with two being halved.

GB& & Ireland manager Andrew Ingram said the Americans were "superb all week. Today's been a bit of a strange day.

We just couldn't get going. We couldn't get anything moving forward."

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2017

BOOTH BAGS SENIOR SERIES TITLE

KINGS IN CHARGE AT PING FAMILY FOURBALL FINALS

F

D

rilford Heath’s Alistair Booth is the first winner of the new England Golf Senior Series, claiming the title by the narrowest of margins.

He was in a three-way tie after scoring 36 points on the Bracken course at Woodhall Spa, but beat Gillian Curley (Northamptonshire County) and Alan Wilson (Romsey) on countback.

The six-handicapper, who set his winning score with 20 points on teh front nine, is a keen competitor, but is also heavily involved in golf administration, and is currently chairman of Frilford Heath Golf Club.

He said: “I don’t play as much as I would like, and I should practice far more than I do, so my golf blows hot and cold, but today it blew hot.”

In addition to his club duties, Booth’s other golfing interests include a seat on the England Golf board, president of the BB&O (Berks, Bucks & Oxon) Golf Union, and chairman of the Greenkeepers’ Training Committee.

SIMMONS MAKES HER MARK

K

ent teenager Megan Simmons has stood out as one of the future rising stars of the English women’s game after making an impact at club, county and England level in recent seasons.

First picking up a club aged eight, after a family friend took her to hit a few balls at Magpie Golf Centre in Bromley, 16-year-old Simmons has enjoyed a meteoric rise up the girls amateur ranks, culminating in being picked for England Golf’s U16 regional squads for the 2016/17 training programme at the end of last year.

“Someone told me very early on that I had a natural swing, so I gave up tennis and went down to the local driving range with my mum to hit a few balls,” said Simmons, whose mother Lisa, has supported her all the way.

After being taught the fundamentals of the game in 2009, after a course of

[31]

urham father and son John and Rob King snatched victory on countback in the Ping Family Fourball Betterball – and claimed their first win together in 27 years of playing golf.

They scored 48 points on the Thonock Park course at Gainsborough Golf Club, pipping Yorkshire father and son Robert and Lewis Hunt, by virtue of their better back nine.

The clincher was Rob’s fifth birdie of the day, which he holed from about 30ft on the 18th, and he said: “We are really over the ■ PING FAMILY FOURBALL WINNERS JOHN AND ROB KING moon; we have never won anything playing together.”

The popular competition – which is run by England Golf – was played for the first time last year, when the Kings were third.

Then it was their turn to lose out on countback, when they just missed second place.

The pair, from Eaglescliffe Golf Club, took up golf together 27 years ago after Rob had a knee operation and had to give up football and cricket. Back then they played together a lot, but over the years they’ve developed their own golfing circles, so they jumped at the chance to have a competitive outing.

“I liked the family theme of this competition, and I wanted to come and play with my dad,” said Rob, who is an 11-handicapper. John plays off 18, at the age of 75, and manages to fit in three to four rounds a week.

Golf Championship in Portugal back in 2012, while last month saw her return to Amendoeira Golf Resort to win the Girls U16 category, with rounds of 77, 79 and 79 in incredibly tough scoring conditions over the O’Connor course.

This season has seen also her compete in the several English Schools Golf Association tournaments, where she has come up against some of the best young girls in the country. She finished runner-up in the Kent Schools' Girls' Championship at Bearsted in April; 7th in the South of England Girls’ Championship at Henley in May; and 22nd at English Girls National Championship at The Kendleshire in June.

Jo Waight, a PE teacher at Hayes School, where Simmons is currently studying, said: “ Megan's golfing achievements have been superb over the last five or six years. She has really established herself in the county scene and I am excited at what the future has in store for her.”

■ MEGAN SIMMONS

lessons with Langley Park teaching pro Tim Trodd, Simmons entered her first Trailblazers Junior Golf Tour in 2010, winning several times.

Her handicap soon tumbled, and she won the Dartford Junior Open in 2013, while the following year she won the Kent County Ladies Golf Association’s Lohan Trophy, when she teamed up with fellow Sundridge Park player Bassey Dunbar to take the title in the foursomes event.

Currently playing off a handicap of five – after coming down three shots in the last 12 months – Simmons is a member at Sundridge Park and West Kent Golf Club, and she is currently being coached by Jay Kelly the head professional at Redlibbets Golf Club.

Simmons has also shone on the international stage, winning the U12s' age group at the Oceanico World Kids

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[32] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

ball that lands in a divot on the fairway.

What’s your favourite course in the UK, and the world?

Muirfield is very special, and I was also lucky enough to play at The Bears Club in Florida in 2011, which was a fantastic experience.

Mike Shrieve, Head Professional at The Grove in Hertfordshire, reveals what it’s like to work at one of UK’s most exclusive golf resorts How long have you been a PGA pro?

I turned professional in 2014, and the three-and-a-half years have flown by.

What is your day-to-day role at the club?

Alongside being a teaching professional, my day-to-day role involves overseeing the management of the golf shop and the golf teaching team.

What’s the best thing about your job?

I love the fact that my job never actually feels like work, and that I am able to have a positive influence on so many people’s golf game, and seeing the enjoyment they get from playing each and every day.

And the worst?

There honestly isn’t a worst bit, but it can be hard sometimes to be so close to the world-class course we have here and not play it every day.

What three words would your colleagues use to describe you?

Passionate, driven and approachable.

Tell us something about the facilities and the playing experience…

The Grove hosted the 2016 British Masters and remains the only UK

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venue to have held a World Golf Championship event, won by Tiger Woods in 2006. The course, particularly the greens, are renowned for their great condition throughout the year. What really helps to set The Grove apart from most other UK venues is that there are very few five-star pay-and-play golf facilities that offer visitors a tournamentquality experience from beginning to end. As we don’t have members, we pride ourselves on ensuring every guest enjoys a premium experience, delivered in a relaxed, friendly way.

What is the club doing to attract juniors and women golfers?

The Grove recently held its inaugural Junior Open, which was hosted by our golf ambassador David Howell. The event welcomed 60 junior golfers and underlined our commitment to attract more children to take up the game.

Alongside the Junior Open, we also have a very popular Ladies Open each year, which has grown in popularity since we introduced it in 2015, and now attracts a field of more than 50 female golfers.

For all visiting golfers there is no

formal dress code for the course, and no requirement for a handicap certificate to play, which makes The Grove an ideal venue for anyone taking their first steps into golf.

How much time do you spend teaching?

Although most of my time is now spent in the office, I will still tend to spend between 10 and 20 hours teaching every week.

What’s selling well in the pro shop at the moment?

Aside from the usually high sales of the Titleist Pro V1 balls and the Hugo Boss clothing lines, we have found that the new brightly-coloured Volvik golf balls have been particularly popular over the last few months.

What is your career highlight as a player?

Probably representing the Bournemouth University team during my Sports Management degree course.

If you could change one rule in golf, which one would it be?

I would allow ‘pick and place’ for any

Who is your golfing hero and why?

Luke Donald. I grew up in the same county as him, playing on many of the courses that he used to play, and I have always admired his swing. I got the opportunity to meet him when he hosted the 2016 British Masters here, and although they say you shouldn’t meet your idol, it was great to chat to him and he couldn’t have been more generous with his time.

Who inspired you to take up golf?

It was more a ‘what’ than a ‘who’.

Following a skateboarding accident when I was younger, my mum put her foot down and told me that I had to find a different hobby. As we lived five minutes from a golf course at the time, which my best friend used to be a member of, I decided to give it a go with him one day, and haven’t looked back since.

Which three other people would be in your dream fourball?

Luke Donald, Ben Hogan and Tiger Woods.

What would you have done if you hadn’t have been a pro?

A teacher. I have always known that I wanted to be in education, as I am passionate about helping to make a real difference to people’s lives.

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RECORDS TUMBLE AT WEE WONDERS FINAL T he grand finals of this year’s Wee Wonders Championships took place at St Andrews over the weekend of August 26-27, producing seven champions across various age and gender categories.

The 2017 Wee Wonders Series saw over 2,200 children aged between five and 12 take part in 57 qualifiers across the UK, with 209 players making it through the grand final at the Home of Golf.

The weekend kicked off with a team speed golf competition, which saw a mixed team of children and their parents getting the ball round the 9-hole Balgove Course Andrews in just over 12 minutes in 37 shots.

The serious element of the weekend began on the Balgove

■ THE WEE WONDERS AGE GROUP WINNERS

Course on Saturday, when three rounds of nine holes were played by the Girls 9-10, Boys 7-8, Girls 5-8 and Boys 5-6 categories.

There was some exceptional golf played, with Isla McDonald O’Brien (Girls 9-10) breaking the single round Wee Wonders course record in her age group with a two-under-par 28. Grace Crawford (Girls 9-10) and Aidan Lawson (Boys 7-8) also broke course records in their respective age groups with a one-under par, three round total of 89.

The younger age category winners were: Girls 9-10: Grace Crawford, Gullane – 89; Boys 7-8: Aidan Lawson, Gullane – 89; Girls 5-8: Charlotte Woodham, Windlesham, Surrey – 105; Boys

R

5-6: Matthew Whitaker, Nazeing, Essex – 110.

The older age groups tackled two rounds on the longer 18-hole Strathtyrum Course, with records falling there too. Doncaster’s Joshua Berry producing a new single round low score for the event with a fourunder-par 65 from the white tees, en route to winning the Boys 11-12 group, while in the Boys 9-10 group, Sean Cooper equalled the single

round record with a one-under-par 68. In the same age group, Connor Graham from Blairgowrie Golf Club, matched the 36-hole round record of 141 – including an ace – en route to winning the section. The Girls 1112 group was won by Molly O’Hara from Clandeboye Golf Club in Northern Ireland, who shot rounds of 71 and 74 to win by a single shot from Harriet Lockley, from Isle of Wedmore GC in Somerset.

WALLIS BIRDIES FINAL HOLE TO WIN KENT OPEN

C

anterbury’s Richard Wallis holed a 15-foot putt to win the PGA Kent Open Championship by a single stroke, with a two round total of nine under par at Prince’s Golf Club in Kent.

In the first round, Wallis led with a magnificent seven-under-par 65, including five birdies in succession from the 12th to the 16th. Yet it only gave him a one shot lead from Elliott Owens (Hever Castle), Simon McGreal (Bradfield College) and Lewis Bird (Calcot Park), all of whom shot opening 66s.

In the final round, Wallis added two more birdies to reach nine under at the turn. But a crucial slip on the penultimate hole left him level with clubhouse leader David Callaway (West Hill), who’d added another 68 to his opening 68 for a total of 136.

Pushed all the way to the final hole, Wallis arrived on the last tee needing one more birdie to secure victory from Callaway, with The Ridge’s Scott Stevens, who shot a closing 66, a shot further back.

Wallis found his winning form when it mattered, and duly made the vital birdie three down the final hole to lift the PGA Kent Open trophy.

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oyal Mid-Surrey’s Oscar Granstrom-Livesey made the most of home advantage to win the Royal Mid-Surrey 125th Anniversary Pro-Am with a three-under-par 66.

Winning by two strokes and taking home the £800 cheque, Granstrom-Livesey, who is nearing the end of his first year of PGA training, celebrated his home club’s 125th anniversary year in style. He fended off one of the leading southern stars, Lee-on-the-Solent’s James Ablett, along with Tilgate Forest’s Lea Cooper and Hayling’s Mark Treleaven, all of whom could do no better than 68. Starting at the 12th, Granstrom-Livesey’s birdie at the 14th was offset by a dropped shot at the first, but he bounced straight back with two on the trot through the second and third, and another on the seventh helped to take him over the finishing line on three under par.

The 23-year-old Royal Mid-Surrey based PGA Assistant was delighted to secure his first professional win at his home club. “Obviously, I’m

■ RICHARD WALLIS WITH THE KENT PGA OPEN TROPHY

Taking home the magnificent silver trophy, and a cheque for £2,000, Wallis was delighted with his second PGA South Order of Merit win this year.

“Having shot all those birdies down the back nine in the first round, I was disappointed that I couldn’t get it going again in the second – nothing was happening. Bogeying the 17th really increased the pressure, and I needed a birdie to win, so, when it mattered, I was pleased with a good drive and wedge to the green, and especially with that 15-foot putt.”

A lesson on the new AimPoint putting method with Wrotham Heath’s PGA Professional James Skelton on the Saturday made a big difference, as Wallis conceded: “I was much more confident working out the lines, and I must have holed at least a dozen mid-range putts, including the one on the 18th. The prospect of a fifth Virgin Atlantic PGA South Order of Merit title is pretty exciting, and I’m going for it.”

But with two more events lefl, the Crisp Thinking PGA Farnham Finale in October, and the finals of the Keith MacDonald Match Play, there’s plenty of points still up for grabs.

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NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2017

ABLETT LOWERS WEST HOVE RECORD

H

■ GRANSTROM-LIVESEY

very familiar with Royal Mid-Surrey’s Taylor course, and knowing where to play safe and where to have a go may well have made the winning difference. I’ve also been able to play in a dozen or so Europro Tour events this year, and that’s really helped to improve my game.”

He added: “I’m so happy about this, especially as the club has done so much to support me. I’d also like to thank head professional Mathew Paget for all his guidance as well, as he was the one who set me up with the opportunity to become a professional golfer.”

ampshire’s James Ablett set a new course record of 63 on his way to winning the West Hove Pro-Am. The Leeon-Solent ace edged out Goodwood’s Chris McDonnell’s 65 for the £600 winner’s cheque.

With typically blowy weather on the Downs, the left-handed star was delighted to admit he’d finally sorted out his putting the day before at Prince’s, and it had made all the difference: “I’ve been playing well, but unable to hole anything outside of 10 feet for ages, which has been very frustrating. On the Tuesday at Prince’s, I moved the ball in my stance, and those mid-range putts started going in.”

Having missed the cut in the PGA Kent Open, Ablett played in The Lodge at Prince’s Sprint, shooting a winning 63 on the Himalayas course. Out in a seven-under-par 28 for his front nine, he picked up a handy £400.

Arriving at West Hove the next day, Ablett was confident he could put a score together

around the immaculately prepared course, but, as he explained, he wasn’t sure what to expect: “I played fine in the 20mph wind, as West Hove’s laid out to allow for that. A shotgun start meant I started on the 18th, and I birdied the second, so coming to the short par-four fourth and the par-five fifth, I was looking to pick up one or maybe two more.”

He continued: “I drove the fourth for a chip and tap-in birdie, and then eagled the fifth with a 7-iron to 20 feet, holing the kind of putt

[35]

I haven’t been making for weeks.

Having exceeded expectations on those two holes, I managed to give a bit back by bogeying the sixth!”

Ablett made birdies at the eighth, 10th, 14th and 15th to finish on a record-breaking 63, giving West Hove’s members an even better day to celebrate. Cottesmore’s Calum Callan added to the day’s festivities, leading his three amateurs to win the team event by three shots.

■ JAMES ABLETT BROKE THE COURSE RECORD AT WEST HOVE EN ROUTE TO VICTORY

CENTURION MEMBER’S MEMORIAL DAY RAISES £25,000 FOR AIR AMBULANCE

■ NEARLY £25,000 WAS RAISED FOR THE ESSEX & HERTS AIR AMBULANCE

A

fundraising day held in honour of a much-loved member at Centurion Club in St Albans has raised nearly £25,000 for the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance.

Rick Garg sadly passed away in August last year at the age of 56, after suffering a heart attack on the golf course. Originally from Huddersfield, Rick was a passionate golfer who was a real family man, and highly thought of by his fellow members at Centurion. He raised thousands of pounds for worthwhile causes during his life through a number of charity days and initiatives.

In honour of Garg, the Rick Garg Memorial Trophy took place in July at the club, supported by a large section of the membership. Rick Wilson, a member of Centurion Club said: “Rick was the epitome of a gentleman, and he was a much-loved member of the community here at Centurion. He was a dedicated golfer who was popular with staff and fellow members. The memorial tournament was a fitting way to remember everything that he achieved throughout his life, and his legacy will live on through events such as this.”

Natasha Robertson, fundraising manager for the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance, commented: “This event raised an amazing £24,370, which is one of the largest single donations from a golf club that we have ever received. average of 1,000 incidents each year across the region.”

To make a donation to Essex & Herts Air Ambulance, visit www.ehaat.org/donate.

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[36] SEPTEMBER 2017 | INTERVIEW

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

BJØRN

CAPTAIN

With just 12 months to go before the 2018 Ryder Cup gets under way in Paris, European captain Thomas Bjørn discusses the measures he’s taking to wrestle Samuel Ryder’s trophy back from Team USA, and why the matches are pivotal to the future growth of the European Tour

W

ith the Ryder Cup just over a year away, do you feel that it’s still too early to be talking about it to the players?

I spoke to some of the top players earlier in the season, and told them to focus on winning majors and competing in the top events, and that I’d speak to them next year, and we'd start putting a plan together.

I don't feel like I need to be shouting in their ears about Ryder Cup stuff right now. If I do that they will hate me before we get to the Ryder Cup – so I’ve been mindful of keeping away from that.

But once the points list is up and running, and players start getting talked up as potential Ryder Cup players, I guess that’s when the real discussions can start taking place...

To a certain extent, but there are still lots of ifs and maybes, so it doesn’t do anyone any good to start thinking or talking about it until further down the line. There are lots of behind-the-scenes operational things to sort out long before the make up of the team becomes the main topic of conversation.

Given that you have four captain’s picks at your disposal now, have you noticed any difference in how players talk to you on the range at events?

The guys are certainly a lot nicer to me than they were before – that’s for sure. They never used to be that polite.

But, you know, life on tour goes on – 2017 is a non-Ryder Cup year, and speaking from my own experience as a player, your mind is on completely different things at this period in the schedule, and so it should be.

The Ryder Cup committee has made some significant changes to the team qualification criteria following the defeat at Hazeltine. Were the changes more about strengthening the European Tour than strengthening the team, or a bit of both?

The two are intrinsically linked, so the decisions that we have made will hopefully be a win-win for both the European Tour and the team. We approved three main changes to the previous criteria. Firstly, that the qualification points will count for one point prior to the BMW at Wentworth at the end of May, but from that tournament to the end of qualification, one point will equal 1.5 points. In discussions I’ve had with previous captains, and with players, and from what I've seen over the years, I strongly believe that having in-form players is the one thing that wins Ryder Cups.

It is a way of giving players that play really well over the summer a better chance of qualifying for the team. When you look at the schedule, it looks like there are going to be five Rolex Series events in that period from Wentworth onwards, and there's going to be three major

championships in there, as well. So there's going to be a lot of points available, but I believe that those players that play well in that stretch are also the players that are going to strengthen the team, and help us win the trophy back.

The second key change is that there will be no Ryder Cup points available for events staged around the world which clash with Rolex Series events. Now, as Ryder Cup captain, I might think, ‘Hmmm, maybe not such a good idea’, but as the European Tour’s Tournament Chairman, as I was then, it was very important for me to give the Rolex Series our full support, and for it to be a success, so giving those tournaments priority was eseential.

Thirdly, and to counteract the possibility of top players slipping through the net, we’ve increased the number of wildcard picks from three to four, and are taking four players off the world points list and four from the European list. My feeling was I could counteract a player doing well somewhere else in the world by having an extra pick.

With these changes in place, I feel like I can get the best team possible, and as Ryder Cup captain, that's my job.

That said, the changes still look like a big statement that says ‘If you want to play for Europe you’ve got to commit to playing in Europe’.

The aim now is to create a loyalty towards the European Tour, and that is what Keith Pelley [the European Tour’s chief executive] is trying to do. I honestly felt that was disappearing. The feeling I grew up with was almost a thing of the past. When I first got my card, we had great players in Woosnam, Ballesteros, Faldo, Langer, Lyle and Olazabal. In all of them there was an underlying pride in the tour, even though they had their battles with officialdom over the years. They still

■ BJØRN MADE HIS RYDER CUP DEBUT AS A PLAYER AT VALDERRAMA IN 1997

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

I’VE FELT FOR A LONG TIME THAT WE NEED TO BRING BACK MORE LOYALTY TO OUR TOUR, AND THAT IS HOPEFULLY WHAT THE NEW ROLEX SERIES WILL DO, AS WELL AS THE CHANGES THAT WE’VE MADE TO THE QUALIFICATION PROCESS FOR THE RYDER CUP

INTERVIEW | SEPTEMBER 2017

wanted the best for the European Tour. But that sort of pride was disappearing a little bit. Our top players are so determined to win majors – and three of those events are in America. And the PGA Tour is such a fantastic package it is hard to resist. So all we hear from them is ‘I must get to America’. Everyone is using us as a stepping stone.

I’ve felt for a long time that we need to bring back more loyalty to our tour, and that is hopefully what the new Rolex Series will do, as well as the changes that we’ve made to the qualification process for the Ryder Cup. The world of golf has moved on since Gleneagles, and even more so since Hazeltine. In fact, by the time we got to Hazeltine, the system for picking the team was probably a little bit out of date, and it needed small changes. I believe that the system we now have in place presents us with the best possible chance of the getting the best team.

Isn't it natural that the best European players want to test themselves against the best players in the world?

Look, I understand they all need to play in America.

They have to compete against the best. I get that. But there has to be a balance. I want our best young players to become as good as they want to be, but I also want them to understand the role the European Tour can play in their careers. I want them to want to be here. I want them to come back and be a part of what we have to offer. It is working, too. Over the last 12 months, the response from our top players has been unbelievable.

They have been brilliant. Rory [McIlroy], for example, has been a massive supporter, as has Sergio {Garcia]. They all understand what is required of them.

How pleased were you that Jon Rahm decided to take up membership of the European Tour?

I encourage every European-born player to become a member of the European Tour, so we can get the best possible team. I knew about Jon before his breakthrough this year, and there’s no doubt that he’s a very, very talented player, and I would love to have him on the team. The Ryder Cup is a massive event and it can do a lot for a player’s career, and I think that's something that you can encourage anybody to be a part of.

With all the demands that the Ryder Cup captaincy entails, has your own game gone on the backburner this year?

Something has to give, so yes, my own game is kind of secondary at the moment. I think you have to accept that there’s going to be periods of time where your performances on the golf course are not that important.

But then there have got to be times where I can still focus on my game, and try and play. By remaining competitive, and being out on the course, I can learn a lot more about what’s going on with the other players from inside the ropes than I can from watching them on TV. So I think that it is a big asset if you can still compete and play. You learn a lot more that way.

It has been hard to spend enough time working on

[37]

my game, but I still feel like I am capable of competing on tour. Not every week, though. There are certain courses where, even if I play out of my skin, scraping into the top 10 is about the best I can hope for.

But do you still feel like you’ve got a few years as a player left in the tank after the Ryder Cup? I intend to carry on playing as long as I can. I had a very interesting conversation with Paul McGinley about this.

He loved being Ryder Cup captain, but he was adamant I should play as long as I want to and feel able to. When you get to my age, you can’t go off and do something else for eight months then come back. That’s not happening. It’s hard enough to keep up with all these youngsters playing full-time. I’d like to be like Miguel [Angel Jimenez] and be competitive into my 50s. Then I can transition into senior golf, if that is what I want to do.

Right now, I’m not sure about that.

What qualities do you think you bring to the role of captain?

I’m good at sifting through opinions and ideas, and explaining to people why things will or won’t work. A lot of my job as tournament chairman had to do with scheduling. What suits a top player tends not to suit a lower-ranked guy. The top players like to have the bigger events close together in chunks. But the other guys tend to want them spread out more. So it’s always a balancing act. I always had to remember that I had to look after the player ranked 100th as much as the guy at No.1. I wanted every member of the tour to know they were valued. The same applies to the captaincy – every player has to know that are valued, whether they topped the points list, squeaked in at the end, or were a captain’s pick.

You have been involved in six Ryder Cups. Three of them as a player, and three of them as a vice captain.

What have you learned from those experiences?

You learn a lot every time, but you learn mostly about how to deal with players, young players, new players in the team, how you make them understand what the Ryder Cup is. So we will continue down that route and, hopefully, with the experience that we have in this team, we can help them perform the best that they can. That's what it's all about. I always say, don't ever take the eye off whoever you're playing against. There are 12 fantastic players on the other side, and you've got to do some things better than them. You've got to get your guys to play well, and you've also got to get them to come together as a group.

Over the years we have laid down a very successful way of doing it, and I'm sure we won't stray too far from that template. The modern player today is different. They need their support teams around them, as that's the way they play their golf normally. That's why guys that have been there before know exactly what's going on in their heads, and that's important. We will try and be there for the players, as much as we can, and try and make them play as one big unit.

TEE IT UP AGAINST THOMAS AT THE SHIRE’S

BJØRN TROPHY The Shire London has created a once-in-alifetime opportunity for golfers to challenge the European Ryder Cup captain in the Thomas Bjørn Trophy on October 9.

Golfers taking part in the tournament will play against the Danish star in a ‘Beat The Pro’ challenge during an 18-hole fourball event, which takes place on The Shire London’s Masters Course.

Following a full English breakfast, competitors will enjoy an 18-hole tournament with a 10am shotgun start. Golfers will be greeted by Bjørn on the tee of the par-three 7th hole, and will then try to get their ball inside his tee shot. Everyone who beats him will receive a prize. After golf, guests will be provided with a three-course meal, with prizes supplied by event sponsors Callaway, Odyssey and Galvin Green, presented by Bjørn.

To enter the Thomas Bjørn Trophy, which costs £550 for a fourball, contact Ceri Menai-Davis on 020 8441 7649 or email ceri@theshirelondon.com.

[38] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

STORY BEHIND THE PIC BRUCE FORSYTH & LEE TREVINO • RAC WOODCOTE PARK GOLF CLUB • SURREY • 1980

THE ENTERTAINMENT WORLD lost one of its biggest and most popular stars with the death of Bruce Forsyth last month, aged 89.

‘Brucie’, as he was known the world over, would have been gutted not to reach his tenth decade, although as a lifelong golfer, he was perhaps happier to go to the 19th hole in the sky just short of that score.

Forsyth became a national treasure during a 70-year career that included hosting such popular TV shows as Sunday Night at the London Palladium, The Generation Game, The Price is Right, Play Your Cards Right and, of course, Strictly Come Dancing.

As far as golf was concerned, Forsyth also played a pretty good game, with a handicap as low as eight during the height of his days on the Pro-Celebrity circuit back in the 1980s. When it rose to 14 in his later years, he joked that his 30-year marriage to his wife, Wilnelia, had ‘cost him a shot for every five years they had been together’.

Forsyth was bitten by the golfing bug in his twenties, and first picked up a club while touring with fellow comedian Les Roy in Scotland in the 1970s, to pass the time between shows. He soon took his new passion for the game to the next level and, along with fellow entertainers such as Jimmy Tarbuck, Ronnie Corbett and Eric Sykes, formed the backbone of a group of funnymen competing in Pro-Celebrity events across the country.

He often appeared alongside leading sportsmen and top professionals at tournaments such as the Bob Hope Classic and the Wang Four Stars, both held at Moor Park Golf Club. The tournaments were played along the same format as today’s Dunhill Links Championship, and consequently drew huge crowds to watch the likes of Bob

Hope and Bing Crosby play alongside Seve Ballesteros, Lee Trevino, Gary Player, Neil Coles and the other leading professionals of the day.

A member at Wentworth Club for many years, where he had a house on Wentworth Drive - 'Straidarran’ – which backed onto the West Course, Forsyth was often seen out and about on the estate in a buggy wearing his trademark cap with a big ‘B’ logo, and was very much part of the

fabric of club life.

Although he often spent the winter in Puerto Rico, where his wife was born, Forsyth much preferred the privacy offered by the exclusive Wentworth property where he lived for over 40 years. It wasn’t always the safe haven he expected though, with the house targeted by burglars in 2013 while he was away watching the Open at Muirfield. His wife, son, and housekeeper were in the house at the time, but fortunately were unharmed during the robbery.

Forsyth came out of semi-retirement in 2004 to co-host Strictly, and was once again a regular Saturday night fixture on our TV screens over the next decade, until health issues forced him to retire from the show at the end of the 2013 series.

He carried on playing golf until 2014 – he appeared in the All Star Cup at Celtic Manor in 2006, where he sank the winning putt – but a fall at his home in early 2015 left him too frail to continue playing the game which had brought him so much enjoyment, although no small amount of frustration.

“Golf can be such an infuriating game,” he once said. “If you’re playing well, it’s easy. If you’re playing badly, then the tension that goes through your body is almost too much to bear.”

All golfers know what that feels like.

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COMPETITION | SEPTEMBER 2017 [39]

WIN £400 OF CALLAWAY GOLF APPAREL Golf News has teamed up with Callaway Apparel to offer one lucky reader the chance to win the ultimate golfing wardrobe

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eaturing clothing that boasts the very latest material technology, Callaway Apparel is one of few remaining golf-only apparel brands, and it focuses the design and performance of its garments purely with the golfer and the golf swing in mind.

For Autumn/Winter 2017, Callaway Apparel has launched its most comprehensive collection to date, featuring more layers and styles with innovative performance fabrics.

All of Callaway's garments are designed to combine the latest technologies and materials. This allows golfers to swing with complete freedom while remaining protected from the elements when out on the course, leaving them to focus on playing their best golf.

The European collection comprises ranges for men and women, as well as the brand’s signature slim- fit X-Range, all of which are endorsed by Callaway Apparel’s team of Tour Ambassadors, including but not limited to Patrick Reed, Emiliano Grillo, Thomas Bjørn, Pablo Larrazabal, Marc Warren, David Horsey and Ladies European Tour and Solheim Cup star Georgia Hall.

The focus of all of the ranges in the Autumn/Winter 2017 collection is to provide more layering options without sacrificing the golfer’s range of motion, to allow an unrestricted swing. Breathability, comfort and fit are incorporated into the design of each piece. Styles and colours in thermalwear, knitwear and windwear provide options for each weather eventuality.

For more details on the Callaway 2017 Autumn/Winter Collection, and to find the nearest stockists, visit www.callawayeuropeapparel.com.

COMPETITION’ in the subject line, including your name,

THE PRIZE

The closing date for entries is October 30, 2017. The prize is

The prize comprises any items in the Callaway 2017 Autumn/

non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. Entrants

Winter Collection up to a value of £400rrp, including your

must be aged 18 years or over.

choices from the range of polos, jumpers, gilets, base layers,

address and contact telephone number, and details of where you picked up your copy of Golf News.

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Which Callaway Apparel ambassador has been chosen to captain the 2018 European Ryder Cup team?

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do is answer the question below correctly, and email your

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answer to: info@golfnews.co.uk, with ‘CALLAWAY APPAREL

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[40] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

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■ BENECTA HAS BEEN SHOWN TO SLOW DOWN THE SIDE-EFFECTS OF THE AGEING PROCESS, INCLUDING RELIEVING JOINT PAIN AND AIDING MUSCLE RECOVERY

THE I BENECTA EFFECT Nick Bayly heads to Northern Iceland to visit the birthplace of a ground-breaking new food supplement, Benecta, which is changing the lives of thousands of people suffering from the numerous common ailments associated with growing old. It’s a fishy tale….

■ TEEING OFF AT THE AS YET-TO-OPEN GOLF COURSE IN SIGLUFJOROUR, WHERE BENECTA IS MADE

t’s a sad, but incontrovertible fact that bits of us start to seize up long before we go to the Great 19th Hole In The Sky, or, for non-golfers – the grave.

For some of us poor souls, even the act of getting up from the sofa results in an ‘ooof’ and an ‘arghh’ long before we turn 50, while others face far more debilitating ailments, such as arthritis and osteoporosis, which severely restrict our daily lives, often at quite early ages.

Coupled with the fact that we are living longer – the average lifespan in the UK for men is 79 and 82 for women – it means that while many more people are reaching a ripe old age, a high percentage of those are not in a position to enjoy the same quality of life that they did in their youth due to the various aches and pains that afflict worn-out joints and tired limbs.

And while advances in modern medicine have meant that hips can be replaced, glaucomas removed, blood transfused, and faces lifted, holding back Old Father Time is still a losing battle, albeit a slightly more drawn out one than it once was.

So it was with more than a golf bagful

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2017

[41]

BENECTA ON TEST

■ BENECTA IS AVAILABLE IN A HANDY PILL FORM THAT CAN BE BOUGHT ONLINE IN THE UK

CHRIS BETTS, A 50 YEAR OLD FROM EAST SUSSEX, DISCUSSES THE EFFECT BENECTA HAD ON HIS HEALTH AND HIS GOLF FOLLOWING A MONTH-LONG TRIAL A couple of months ago I noticed an advertisement on golf website howdidido.com regarding a free trial of a new product, Benecta.

With the headlines claiming it improved stamina and reduced aches and pains, this immediately drew my attention.

I'm 50 years old, play golf, jog and cycle, and consider myself fairly fit, but I’ve recently noticed that I was struggling two-thirds of the way through my rounds with a lack of energy, while I was suffering with a lower back pain and a strain on the inside of my right knee, so the opportunity for a trial of a product that might help with these issues was timely.

The trial consisted of taking two tablets a day, and after about two weeks the pain in my back had completely disappeared and the knee ache had gone too. I noticed I was able to rotate my hips a lot more and I wasn't feeling the squeeze on my knee during the round.

Furthermore, I was finishing the round off much stronger. I play at The Dyke, near Brighton, which is a hilly course, and a good test of stamina for any player, no matter what their age. While I was on the trial I shot a couple of rounds in the mid 80-s, which, as a 15 handicapper, I was very pleased with, especially as I was able to hold the round together at the end – something I had not managed to do for quite some time.

Now I've come off the first course of tablets, I’ve started to feel my lower back getting stiff again and the inside ligament of my right knee is starting to feel sore. This could be coincidence, but I'm going to take the plunge and place an order for the next batch of Benecta.

■ BENECTA'S FOUNDER HAS INVESTED OVER €30M REDEVELOPING HIS HOME TOWN, INCLUDING BUILDING A HOTEL (PICTURED), RESTAURANTS AND A GOLF COURSE

of mild scepticism that I boarded a plane at Gatwick bound for Iceland to find out more about a ground-breaking new food supplement whose primary ingredient is found in the icy waters of the North Atlantic, and which promises to combat many of the negative side effects of the ageing process.

After landing at Reykjavík, and then taking a short internal flight to the northern town of Akureyri, it was not long before we arrived at Siglufjörður, a quaint seaside port that was once the epicentre of Iceland’s herring industry. With huge, snow-capped mountains rising up from either side of the icy waters of the harbour, ‘Siglo’, as the locals call it, is a beautiful, if somewhat remote spot in which to discover the elixir of life, let alone base a biotech company. But the reason soon becomes clear. Sadly, the herring upped and left in the 1960s – most probably in cans bound for supermarket shelves – and with no fish to fish, so to speak, the once thriving town soon fell on hard times. Virtually overnight, almost everyone left, boats and all, and Siglufjörður soon turned into a ghost town. One of those to leave was Robert Guðfinnsson, who saw the livelhood of the

community destroyed when the herring left.

Like many of his age, Guðfinnsson, who was born and raised in the village, left Iceland in early early 40s to find his fortune elsewhere, and using his extensive knowledge of the fishing industry, went on to make that fortune farming tuna in Mexico. But having never forgotten his roots, he returned to Iceland some 10 years ago, armed with what must have seemed like a crazy idea to try and put the town back on the map.

Since his return, Guðfinnsson has spent over €30 million rebuilding the town, creating a 68-bedroom hotel, several restaurants, cafés, fishing and folk music museums, and, most recently, an 18-hole golf course, which Is set to officially open next Spring. With a ski resort also in the pipeline, it’s fair to say that Guðfinnsson has single-handedly put Siglo back on its feet, with a steady flow of adventure-seeking travellers finding out what this stunning region has to offer.

Apart from a deep-seated desire to bring his birthplace back to life, what also brought Guðfinnsson back was the discovery of the health benefits of an unwanted byproduct of the fishing industry that still goes on in the town. North Atlantic prawns are big business in Iceland, and there are millions of them out there waiting to be wrapped in breadcrumbs or served up in Marie Rose sauce. While the prawns themselves are very tasty, the shells aren’t quite so great to chew on, so they are generally thrown away. Only Guðfinnsson and his team of biotech scientists discovered – after 10 years of research – that the shells contain a number of potentially valuable agents, including protein and calcium carbonate, as well as chitosan – a short-chain polymer which, when ground down, mixed with a few secret ingredients, and turned into tablet form, offers a wide range of health-

enhancing properties.

Numerous trials conducted with local elderly residents soon revealed that when taken daily, Benecta helps support the body as it ages. Anecdotal evidence collected over the last two years, since the product was launched in Iceland, suggests that taking just two capsules a day can help alleviate symptoms often associated with 'just getting older', such as stiffness, aches and lethargy.

‘The Benecta Effect’ is the phrase that is often used to describe the broad range of benefits people experience after taking the product for just one month.

“As a company, we believe passionately that the quality of your life needn’t be compromised or determined by your age,” says Guðfinnsson, a sprightly 60 year old who has, of course, been taking Benecta from the outset. “We think it is time to reframe the narrative around getting older, and to free ourselves from the outdated, prescriptive ideas of how ‘older people’ should behave.

We don’t intend to retreat into old age quietly, and we don’t expect our customers to either.

Hilmar Janusson, chief executive of Genis, the biotech company behind Benecta, added: "Benecta differs from standard chitosan because of a patented process affecting the short-chain variety which is of optimal formulation. The process of producing anecdotal evidence for the benefits from taking Benecta is a long and arduous one, but we've already received more than enough personal testimonials from satisfied users to know that this wholly natural product can, and does, make a difference."

For golfers in particular, early evidence has shown that taking Benecta can help users play the game for longer, regardless of age.

WHAT IS BENECTA MADE FROM? Benecta is made from short-chain chitosan extracted from crustaceans.

WHO CAN TAKE BENECTA? Benecta can be taken by most people, but is not recommended for under-18s, those who are pregnant – or likely to become pregnant – or those with an allergy to shellfish. As it is made from natural ingredients, Benecta can be taken alongside any other medication or food supplements. Please note, gelatin capsules are used for Benecta. As always with supplements, if you have any concerns about taking Benecta alongside your medication, please consult your doctor.

WHERE CAN YOU BUY BENECTA? Benecta is available to buy only online from www.benecta.co.uk.

It costs £40 for 60 tablets – a month’s supply.

More than 2,000 club golfers in the UK are currently engaged in trials that are looking to measure the effect of the supplement on their health, mobility and general wellbeing, and while it is too early to draw any firm statistical conclusions, reviews from those that have been taking Benecta for several months have been overwhelmingly positive.

“The trials we are undertaking currently in the UK are purely to add weight to the testimonials we already have,” explains Guðfinnsson. "It's hard to sit down at your golf club and not be impressed when a clubmate turns around and tells you what a difference Benecta can make in just a couple of months."

One such player is Geoff Corbett, a 77-year-old golfer who has taken Benecta for the last six months. He said: "Since taking Benecta, my playing partners have remarked that I'm actually taking the club back further than I have for many years, and I can only put that down to improved mobility. I've also given up using my electric trolley and I've started carrying my clubs – which is something I haven't done for over two years.

Round about two-thirds of a way around the course, I used to get very tired, and had to take an energy drink to get me through the last six holes. But since taking Benecta, I no longer need the drink, and, on top of that, I feel less tired and more mobile.”

With the golf course at Siglo – which I had the honour of being among the first group of golfers to play last month – officially opening next year, Siglo’s golfing population will soon have the chance to discover how ‘The Benecta Effect’ benefits their own golf game.

And who knows, the next British Senior Open champion might come from Siglufjörður.

Now, that would be a tale to tell.

[42] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

T

he United States retained the Solheim Cup with a 16½-11½ victory over Europe at Des Moines Golf and Country Club in Iowa.

The hosts held a five-point lead going into Sunday and only needed to earn three and a half points from the 12 singles matches, whereas Europe needed nine – but the sides shared the singles matches equally – 6-6.

Europe came out fighting and Anna Nordqvist went four-up after four holes in the top match, but the world number two Lexi Thompson rallied and was seven under for eight holes from the 10th.

Thompson made two eagles at the 11th and 13th, and then birdied the 16th to take a one-up lead heading into the last, but Nordqvist, who had won all three of her matches, fired a superb 8-iron into the final green for a conceded birdie putt to halve the match.

There was a European point from the evergreen Catriona Matthew, who, just days before her 48th birthday, defeated Stacy Lewis 1up to make it six wins, two losses and one half from her nine career singles matches.

She said later: “This is going to be my last one playing. I was

USA RETAINS SOLHEIM CUP

America reasserted its historical dominance in the Solheim Cup with a convincing victory in Iowa, where Europe’s team showed plenty of fighting spirit, but looked short on firepower

three down through 11, and said to myself, ‘This is going to be your last match, so give it your all’, and I managed to play all 18, and just squeak a win, so I enjoyed the moment today, but I think it's time for some younger players to take over.”

There was another point for the Europeans when Caroline Masson secured a 4&2 win over Michelle Wie, but then the momentum swung in America’s favour.

Cristie Kerr continued her superb form during the week with a 2&1 triumph over Melissa Reid, who lost three of her four matches, while Paula Creamer posted a 1up victory over Georgia Hall, who missed a five-foot putt on the 18th hole that would have halved the match. Hall was the only European to play all five sessions, and came away with two wins and three defeats.

Angel Yin halved her match against Karine Icher to reach 13½ points, effectively sealing the victory, with at least a half point already guaranteed from Lizette Salas.

Jodi Ewart Shadoff won the 17th to keep the match alive, but after her birdie putt on the last slipped past the hole, Salas holed a par putt from five feet to get the winning point for the US team, taking the score to 14½.

With the match over as a contest, Charley Hull, who sat out Saturday’s play with a wrist injury, played through the pain to beat Brittany Lang on the 18th, while Carlota Ciganda wrapped up a 4&3 win over Brittany Lincicome. Madelene Sagstrom then earned her first point for the European team with a 3&2 victory over fellow Solheim Cup rookie Austin Ernst.

There were also two more points for the United States when Gerina Piller earned a 4&2 victory over Florentyna Parker and Danielle Kang defeated Emily Kristine Pedersen by 3&1.

Juli Inkster – who became the second United States

captain to achieve two victories, after Judy Rankin in 1996 and 1998 – said afterwards: “It's amazing.

I can't believe we’ve just won. I'm glad we had a lead, because Europe came out firing today, and I knew they would. “I really haven’t been nervous all week but today I was a little bit nervous. But they believed in each other.

They played for the person behind them and in front of them, and they played some amazing golf.”

After making it 10 wins for the United States from 15 contests, Inkster congratulated Annika Sorenstam and her team for an amazing match in Des Moines. Sorenstam said: “We just got outplayed, there's no doubt about it. I'm so proud how hard they fought. And it's not easy coming out here on a Sunday with the team so far behind, but I'm proud of them. They were out there fighting every single match, every single point. What can I say? Just congratulate the USA, because they played some awesome golf.

“Sometimes it's not always about the results. I must say that this has been a lot about the journey. I've learned a lot over the last 18 months. It's been a pleasure to represent the European Tour. I'm so proud of these young girls, and to get to know them.”

When asked if she would like to continue as captain, Sorenstam replied: “I want to give someone else the chance to do it. It’s time to move the torch to someone else, and we have some great candidates.”

That ‘someone else’ looks like Scotland’s Catriona Matthew, who would be a popular choice for the matches which are to be held on her home soil at Gleneagles in 2019.

2017 SOLHEIM CUP RESULTS DAY ONE FRIDAY 18TH AUGUST Foursomes Results Melissa Reid & Charley Hull (EUR) halved with Cristie Kerr & Lexi Thompson (USA) Danielle Kang & Lizette Salas (USA) bt Carlota Ciganda & Caroline Masson (EUR) 1up Georgia Hall & Anna Nordqvist (EUR) bt Paula Creamer & Austin Ernst (USA) 3&1 Karine Icher and Catriona Matthew (EUR) bt Stacy Lewis & Gerina Piller (USA) 1 up USA 1½ EUROPE 2½ Four Ball Results Michelle Wie & Danielle Kang (USA) bt Madelene Sagstrom & Jodi Ewart Shadoff (EUR) 3&1 Angel Yin & Lizette Salas (USA) bt Carlota Ciganda & Emily Pedersen (EUR) 6&5 Brittany Lincicome & Brittany Lang (USA) bt Florentyna Parker & Caroline Masson (EUR) 3&2 Stacy Lewis & Gerina Piller (USA) bt Charley Hull & Georgia Hall (EUR) 2&1 USA 4 EUROPE 0 DAY TWO SATURDAY 19TH AUGUST Foursomes Results: Cristie Kerr & Lexi Thompson (USA) bt Jodi Ewart Shadoff & Caroline Masson (EUR) 5&3 Paula Creamer & Austin Ernst (USA) bt Mel Reid & Emily Pedersen (EUR) 5&3 Anna Nordqvist & Georgia Hall (EUR) bt Stacy Lewis & Gerina Piller (USA) 2&1 Catriona Matthew & Karine Icher (EUR) bt Michelle Wie & Danielle Kang (USA) 2&1 USA 2 Europe 2

Four Ball Results: Brittany Lang & Brittany Lincicome (USA) bt Mel Reid & Carlota Ciganda (EUR) 2 up Anna Nordqvist & Jodi Ewart Shadoff (EUR) bt Lizette Salas & Angel Yin (USA) 4&2 Paula Creamer & Austin Ernst (USA) bt Karine Icher & Madelene Sagstrom (EUR) 2&1 Cristie Kerr & Lexi Thompson (USA) bt Catriona Matthew and Georgia Hall (EUR) 4&2 USA 3 EUROPE 1 DAY THREE SUNDAY 20TH AUGUST Sunday Singles Results: Anna Nordqvist (EUR) halved with Lexi Thompson (USA) Paula Creamer (USA) bt Georgia Hall (EUR) 1 up Cristie Kerr (USA) bt Mel Reid (EUR) 2&1 Catriona Matthew (EUR) bt Stacy Lewis (USA) 1 up Karine Icher (EUR) halved with Angel Yin (USA) Caroline Masson (EUR) bt Michelle Wie (USA) 4&2 Lizette Salas (USA) bt Jodi Ewart Shadoff (EUR) 1 up Charley Hull (EUR) bt Brittany Lang (USA) 1 up Carlota Ciganda (EUR) bt Brittany Lincicome (USA) 4&3 Gerina Piller (USA) bt Florentyna Parker (EUR) 4&2 Madelene Sagstrom (EUR) bt Austin Ernst (USA) 3&2 Danielle Kang (USA) bt Emily Pedersen (EUR) 3&1 USA 6 EUROPE 6

OVERALL RESULT: USA 16 ½ EUROPE 11 ½

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NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2017 [43]

MIGUEL ON

MIGUEL Miguel Ángel Jiménez, aka ‘Golf’s Most Interesting Man’, gives his views on mixing it with the kids at 53, life on the Champions Tour, Sergio’s Masters’ win, and why he lives life in the fast lane

I

feel like a fish in the water when I’m competing.

Playing golf is my life. I’m going to keep playing as long as I’m alive. Technology helps too, of course, but if you don’t know how to hit the ball, technology does nothing.

My goal is the same at every tournament – keep enjoying myself, keep hitting the ball well, and on Sunday, I try and give myself a chance to go for the win. And if I can’t win, I try to finish as high as I can.

That is why I have lots of top-fives in my career – I never give up.

People like to laugh at my warm-up routine, and it is a little funny, but it helps to move the joints. At my age, it’s difficult to be here if you are not working out. You need to be flexible, elastic and strong. The main thing is I never get injured. You have to know your limits. The human body is not meant to be put under stress for such a long time. Enjoy what you are doing, exercise, but don’t overdo it.

I’ve won 21 times on the European Tour in 29 years, but the BMW PGA Championship in 2008 was one of the most important victories. At the time it was the biggest tournament on the Tour and, at 44, my chances of winning it were running out.

I’ve had some good results at Wentworth over the years, and to win there in my 20th season on tour was very special.

It’s not easy playing the Champions Tour and the European Tour, with all the travelling and the different courses, but I am going to try and play on both for as long as I can. I still feel that when I play well, I can compete

against the younger players. Fifty came too early for me. When the time comes that I must move full-time to the Champions Tour, I will do that, but right now I feel like I want to play both tours.

When I play with these young boys, and I see how they hit the ball, I know that my strength is not their strength. My muscles do not work the same. I cannot match their distance. I don't recover as quickly as they do. And the path they have to walk is much longer than the path I have left to walk. But I still have a path to walk.

I was not disappointed to be overlooked for the Ryder Cup captaincy at Hazeltine. I was happy for Darren [Clarke]. But I hope my turn comes soon, as I am not getting any younger. Some people say that I cannot be captain because my English is not good, but the Ryder Cup is decided by the players' clubs, not the captain's English.

Whenever things are not going well on the golf course, I remind myself that I am out here with the sun shining; I'm surrounded by friends and family; and tonight I will eat good food, drink good wine, smoke a good cigar, and make love to my beautiful wife. It's a good life, no?

I often get comments about my drinking and my smoking, but I come from a different generation.

And I'm not a hypocrite. I don't hide the way I am. If I want to have a drink, I have a drink. Why shouldn't I? Is it illegal to drink alcohol? Is tobacco illegal? So why should I care if people see me smoking? I do what I do out in the open. If people have a problem with that they can stick their tongue up their ****, and let the rest of us do what we want to do.

Sergio’s win at the Masters was amazing. He deserved it. He’s played in so many majors, and has been in contention in a lot of them. His first major has come later than he would have hoped, but that is how it goes sometimes. Mickelson also won his first major at

WHAT’S IN MIGUEL’S BAG? DRIVER

G400 9 DEGREE

FAIRWAY G400 3, 5, 7 IRONS

iBLADE 4-PW

WEDGES GLIDE 52SS, 60SS PUTTER

ANSER MILLED

BALL

SRIXON Z-STAR

37, and now he has five. Now that Sergio has opened the box, I hope that it's not the last one. He's got the game, he's got the power, and he’s got the skill, to win more majors.

I’ve had 10 hole-in-ones during my career, but my favourite shot of all time came at the 1994 Volvo Masters at Valderrama, when I holed my second shot on the par-five 17th hole. I had 194 metres to the hole, and 183 metres to the front of the green. I hit a 3-iron there and in it went. It was the first year the hole became a long par five, which you could reach, and I was the first person to make an albatross there.

I would like to get more involved in golf course design.

I am fortunate to have played many golf courses all over the world, with differing landscapes, altitudes, natural and man-made hazards, grasses and climates.

This experience gives me a greater understanding of what makes a really good golf course. I have completed several courses, including Prosper Golf Resort in the Czech Republic, which hosted the Czech Open from 2009-2011, and an 18-hole course in the Dominican Republic, Naco Country Club. I’ve also designed a new short game academy at Las Colinas in Spain, which should open soon.

[44] SEPTEMBER 2017 | NEWS

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TOURNEWS...

TOUR NEWS IN BRIEF

‘WE NEED MORE TOURNAMENTS’ SAYS LET CHAIRMAN

T

he stand-in chief executive of the Ladies European Tour has said that it urgently needs more tournaments if it is to survive in its current form.

LET chairman Mark Lichtenhein, who has taken on the role of chief executive following the departure of former CEO Ivan Khodabakhsh, has said that the struggling tour is urgently in need of sponsors to back new events to prevent the tour from collapse. Speaking ahead of last month’s Solheim Cup, Lichtenhein said: “Quite clearly the priority right now is getting more tournaments. I think we have

been very unlucky with global events. There were problems in Turkey. We had a Czech Open ready to go, then the sports minister was arrested. There were changes to sponsorship rules in China.”

Numerous discussions taking place include the LET being integrated into the European Tour, or being taken over by the LPGA Tour, although nothing has currently been agreed between any of the parties.

Lichtenhein insists the LET remains a viable business, if one operating as an outdated model. “I’ve been looking at our governance structure, which I think is in need of updating,” he said. “We have articles of association that haven’t been changed in the last 30 years. I’m not saying there is anything wrong with that, but with everything that is going on just now around governance in sport, and the UK government’s interest in that, we want to show ourselves as a modern company.”

This year’s LET schedule features just five tournaments in Europe, with other events being held in Morocco, Dubai, China, Japan, Thailand, India and Australia. The LPGA Tour offers over 25 tournaments to its members.

FITZ IS A EURO MASTER

M

atthew Fitzpatrick won his fourth European Tour title with a play-off victory over Australia's Scott Hend at the European Masters in Switzerland.

The 23 year old from Sheffield shot a closing six under 64 to end on 14 under at Crans-sur-Sierre.

Hend led by three shots going into round four, and had an eight-foot putt to win on the second play-off hole, but he missed, and a wayward shot from a bunker on the third play-off hole gave Fitzpatrick the chance to close out.

"I'm delighted," said Fitzpatrick. "It's one that I've always wanted to win. I love playing this golf course. It's always stood out on the schedule. I kept my nerve and played really smart all week."

The winner was left with a putt of around a foot for the win when Hend could only make bogey, as both men completed the 18th hole for the third

time in the playoff.

Hend, who lost the same event in a playoff to Alex Noren last year, had fired through the green from a fairway bunker, and his chip back onto the putting surface had rolled through the green, stopping perilously close to a water hazard.

Both players began the day early with holes to complete in their third rounds

following weather-disrupted play on Saturday. But it was in the fourth round where Fitzpatrick gathered momentum, with eight birdies and two bogeys seeing him card a six under 64.

The Sheffield-born player briefly held a two-shot lead before making a bogey on the 17th hole. But the round was enough to secure the first playoff of his career on the European Tour.

DAVIES TO COMPETE IN EUROPEAN SENIOR TOUR EVENT

BJORN CELELBRATES 500TH EVENT IN FRONT OF HOME FANS

T

he first day of last month’s Made In Denmark was one to remember for Thomas Bjørn, after fans and players alike marked his 500th European Tour appearance with a series of tributes.

The home favourite received a warm welcome from the huge crowd assembled at the 16th green at Himmerland Golf & Spa Resort, many of whom were wearing masks with Bjørn's face on.

Big Liverpool FC fan Bjørn was also treated to a rendition of the club's anthem 'You'll Never Walk Alone' as he walked up the short par three, with Martin Kaymer's caddie Craig Connelly leading the singing.

The 15-time European Tour winner was delighted to be able to share his special day with Danish golf fans."It's difficult to put into words really," he said. "I kind of feel like shooting 100 or shooting 60 wouldn't really have mattered. It was all about being out there today and sharing a moment with golf fans in this country, who have always been there for me.

"It's a very special day for me, and I'm just really happy I got to see this moment. A lot of good things have happened to me in golf, but this is probably one of the better moments I've ever had. Having said that, I'm not sure I want to see that many faces of myself in the future again! t was just a day I'll remember for the rest of my life."

BEEF TO PLAY IN EUROPE NEXT SEASON

A

ndrew Johnston has announced his intention to leave the PGA Tour and concentrate his efforts in Europe next season, after failing to make much of an impact on the US circuit.

‘Beef’, who is currently ranked 119th in the world and lies 92nd in the Race to Dubai, has decided to play a full schedule on the European Tour next season in a bid to get back to winning ways.

“Unless you are in the top-50 it is difficult to play both tours“, said Johnson, who lives in North London.

“I wanted to go over there and try and make myself a better golfer, and I think I have learned a lot of good things, but I am going to play more in Europe now."

Beef’s maiden PGA Tour season has so far seen him make the cut in eight of

12 events he has entered, with a best finish of tied 10th in the Puerto Rico Open, which earned him $64, 500. His best finish in Europe this season is a tied 19th in the Scottish Open, while he was 27th at The Open.

“I have struggled on the PGA Tour, and the only tournament I felt I actually played well was Puerto Rico. It has been hard, as I have not swung the club that well – although it does feel like it is coming back," he said.

“The last few months have been really positive, as I felt I played nicely in Scotland and at the Open, and it has been really close. I have just been batting away.”

He added: “The PGA Tour is a tough tour, as there are so many good players. I had to get used to the course

Dame Laura Davies will make history as the first woman to compete in a European Senior Tour event. The four-time major winner will take part in next year's Shipco Masters in Denmark, where she will play from the same tees as her male opponents.

Davies, 53, said: "My golfing career has been played in parallel with a number of players who are currently on the Senior Tour, so I'm really looking forward to testing my wits against them. It is a privilege to have been invited back to Simon's Golf Club, and I'm looking forward to making history on the Senior Tour."

Club founder Arne Simonsen added: "We had the pleasure of welcoming Laura and her LET colleagues in 2008 at the Nykredit Masters.

Laura is a great player and has a wonderful personality, and we look forward to welcoming her back to Simon's Golf Club for the Shipco Masters."

The tournament will be staged from June 1-3, 2018.

PGA TOUR ADDS KOREAN EVENT

The PGA Tour has announced the first part of its 2017-18 schedule, a seven-week stretch from early October to mid-November, that features four domestic and four international tournaments – all of which offer FedExCup points.

The new season opens on October 2 with the Safeway Open in California, before moving to Asia for three tournaments, starting with the CIMB Classic in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, October 12-15.

The CJ Cup @ Nine Bridges, the PGA Tour’s first-ever official event in Korea, will be held October 19-22 on Jeju Island. Then comes the World Golf Championships-HSBC Champions in Shanghai, October 26-29.

That same weeK, the Tour also returns to the US with the Sanderson Farms Championship in Jackson, Mississippi. The schedule continues with the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open in Las Vegas (Nov 2-5), the OHL Classic at Mayakoba in Playa del Carmen, Mexico (Nov 9-12), and concludes with the RSM Classic at St. Simons Island, Georgia (Nov 16-19) before the official season breaks until January.

HAFTHORSSON BAGS ICELANDIC FIRST

conditions, and in many ways, it has felt like I was starting out again.”

Last year, Johnston entered the final series of the Web.com Tour, making the cut in two of the four events to earn 2017 PGA Tour membership. However, his low status has meant that he has

had to mix his schedule with playing in Europe. On the back of his newfound fame in the States, Johnston signed a deal last year to represent fast food giant Arbys, but whether that relationship will continue when he moves back to Europe remains unclear.

Birgir Hafthorsson became Iceland’s first ever tour winner, after claiming a maiden victory on the second tier circuit without hitting a ball on the final day of the Cordon Golf Open in France, as heavy rain washed out the fourth round, reducing the tournament to 54 holes. Hafthorsson, who is 41 and has been a professional for 20 years, was seven shots clear of the field after three rounds, having reach a total 18 under par at Golf Blue Green de Pléneuf Val Andre.

“It’s my lucky day!” said Hafthorsson. “It’s been a fantastic week. It’s been a while since I turned pro, and 20 years is a long time to wait for your first win, but it’s worth it now. It feels like my time – my golf this week was the best I have ever played.”

CONTENTS TRIED & TESTED: MOTOCADDY'S S5 CONNECT TROLLEY PRO SHOP: NEW GEAR FROM TAYLORMADE, TITLEIST & MIZUNO SHOWCASE: SPIN IT TO WIN IT WITH THE LATEST WEDGES

EQUIPMENT & GEAR

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PREPARE FOR TAKE OFF! MEET THE NEW CLEVELAND LAUNCHER HB RANGE

[46] SEPTEMBER 2017 | EQUIPMENT

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EQUIPMENT NEWS

THE GEAR EFFECT WHAT THE WINNERS WERE PLAYING ON TOUR JUSTIN THOMAS WGC DELL CHAMPIONSHIP

TAYLORMADE EXPANDS P700 SERIES TAYLORMADE has doubled the size of its P700 range of irons following the launch of two new models – the P790 and the P730.

Building on the success of the P770 and P750 Tour Proto launched last year, the two new irons fill the gap at either end of the spectrum of players’ irons to provide a comprehensive range for the skilled golfer.

With the number of the model referring to the length of the blade, the new P790 is the widest, and the most forgiving in the P700 range. Designed to offer the look and feel of a players’ iron with increased distance, forgiveness and playability, it features a forged carbon steel body and high-strength carbon steel face combined with a hollow cavity behind the face.

The cavity has been injected with a foam insert that increases ball speed, as well as enhances the feel and sound of the clubface at impact. SpeedFoam, as TaylorMade have branded this proprietary new material, provides the face support and damping properties that delivers distance, playability and feel in a medium-compact head design with a thin topline and the reduced offset preferred by better players. It also features a speed pocket on the sole of the long and mid irons to create greater forgiveness and consistency than is typically seen in a distance iron design.

A re-engineered Inverted Cone allows for

DRIVER: Titleist 917D2 (9.5) FAIRWAY WOOD: Titleist 917F2 (15) IRONS: Titleist 716 CB (4), 718 MB prototype (5-9) WEDGES: Titleist Vokey Design SM6 (46, 52, 60) PUTTER: Scotty Cameron for Titleist Futura X5 prototype BALL: Titleist Pro V1x

DUSTIN JOHNSON NORTHERN TRUST OPEN DRIVER: TaylorMade M1 2017 (10.5) FAIRWAY WOODS: TaylorMade M2 2017 (16.5, 18) IRONS: TaylorMade TP MB (3-PW)

reduced face thickness at the edges of the face, thus increasing flexibility from heel to toe and low on the clubface, while an internal tungsten weight improves forgiveness and playability through precise centre of gravity placement and higher moment of inertia.

The P730 is a classic forged blade that retains many of the features found in TaylorMade’s Tour Preferred MB irons – including sole camber, offset flow, sole radius and hosel length – while improving its performance through more efficient shaping and weight distribution.

Forged from 1025 carbon steel with a new multi-step forging process, and featuring precision milled face and grooves, the overall blade profile of the P730 is slightly smaller than the original MB irons, with cleaner and crisper lines, particularly in the short irons, while the leading edge has been tweaked to improve turf

interaction across the set.

The clubhead’s MOI has been raised vertically without increasing it horizontally.

This improves forgiveness on shots struck slightly high or low on the face, while maintaining the level of workability and shot shaping ability that skilled players demand. This was achieved by reducing the overall blade length and creating a milled channel in the back of the blade, which moves some mass away from the centre of the blade.

It is fitted with True Temper Dynamic Gold steel shafts (S300) and Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360 grips.

The P790 goes on sale on October 1, while the P730 will be available from November 1. Both sets will have an RRP of £1,299/£1.049 (gr/st).

WEDGES: TaylorMade Milled Grind (52, 60) PUTTER: TaylorMade TP Juno BALL: TaylorMade TP5x

HENRIK STENSON WYNDHAM CHAMPIONSHIP FAIRWAY WOODS: Callaway Diablo Octane Tour (13), Callaway XR Pro (18) IRONS: Callaway Legacy Black (3-PW) WEDGES: Callaway Mack Daddy (50, 56, 60) PUTTER: Odyssey White Hot XG #7H BALL: Titleist Pro V1x

ADRIAN OTAEGUI PAUL LAWRIE MATCH PLAY DRIVER: TaylorMade M1 460 (8.5) FAIRWAY WOODS: TaylorMade M2 Tour (15, 18) IRONS: TaylorMade P750 (5-SW)

TAYLORMADE LAUNCHES MYROUNDPRO APP TAYLORMADE has released the myRoundPro app for IOS and Android mobile devices.

The app, which is free to download across both platforms, allows golfers to get the most out of myRoundPro, TaylorMade’s statistical analysis tool, which is designed to help golfers better understand, adapt and improve their game.

on the hole, and review shots using detailed course maps to help identify potential areas for development.

MyRoundPro enables golfers to manually track their shots during a round and identify the relevant club used for that shot. Users can keep a record of their scores, view detailed yardages to any point

Based on their on-course play, users will be able to analyse a variety of performance statistics, including strokes gained, proximity to the hole, fairways hit and greens in regulation.

They can also get stat breakdowns by club to help them become more knowledgeable about their game.

To download the myRoundPro app visit tmag.co/myRoundPro_iOS or tmag.co/myRoundPro_Android.

ADIDAS GIVES TOUR360 A BOOST ADIDAS has unveiled a new version of its popular Tour 360 shoe. The Tour 360 Boost features a number of significant changes from the previous model, including a new outsole top plate, SprintSkin technology, a toe-down appearance, a new heel design, and increased outsole flexibility.

It will also feature Boost technology in the midsole to provide unmatched comfort, as well as offer a 10-cleat TPU outsole to offer improved stability and grip. A Torsion Tunnel offers independent flexibility and control between the heel and forefoot. The new tongue and fitfoam collar combine to offer added comfort on the top and around the foot. An upgraded outsole top plate sits above the boost midsole, allowing the shoe to accommodate natural foot flection. SprintSkin Technology comprises an ultra-lightweight microfiber which adds additional support and stability in the upper section of the shoe as golfers make lateral movements during the swing.

The heel now features a more classic shape with premium leather throughout. By enveloping the heel with a premium leather lining, it adds additional comfort and durability.

The Tour 360 Boost goes on sale in October priced at £149.95.

NEW FJ APPAREL RANGE BEATS THE WINTER BLUES

WEDGES: TaylorMade Milled Grind (50, 58)

FOOTJOY’S new Autumn/Winter clothing collection features all-new colour pallettes, fresh product categories, and a number of innovative options in keeping with the brand’s ‘Layer Up’ philosophy.

HYBRID: Callaway Apex (18˚)

Worn by the likes of Andrew Johnston and Matthew Southgate at the Open Championship, among the new additions to the 2017 range are the DryJoys Tour LTSTM jackets, rain shirts and trousers, which offer lightweight waterproof performance through a minimal five-panel construction, as well as temperature regulating properties and stretch fabrication.

Previous FootJoy jackets have had as many as 24 panels and 27-plus seams. The new DryJoys Tour LTS jacket has just five panels and six seams, reducing weight and bulk. The jacket is suitable for year-round play and has been produced using a specially developed ThermoLite bonded liner, guaranteeing that when conditions are cool, the jacket will maintain body heat and, when conditions are warm, the fibres will wick moisture away from the body and expel heat.

PUTTER: TaylorMade Spider Tour BALL: TaylorMade TP5x

HAYDN PORTEOUS CZECH MASTERS DRIVER: Callaway Great Big Bertha Epic (8.5°) IRONS: Callaway Epic Pro (3), Callaway Apex MB (4-9) WEDGES: Callaway MD3 Milled (46°, 52°, 56°, 60°) PUTTER: Odyssey O-Works #1 Wide

JASON NORRIS FIJI INTERNATIONAL DRIVER: Titleist 917D3 (9.5°) FAIRWAY WOOD: Titleist 917F3 (15°) HYBRID: Titleist 816H1 (19°) IRONS: Titleist AP2 716 (4-PW) WEDGES: Titleist Vokey Design SM6 (52°, 56°, 60°) PUTTER: Odyssey O Works Jailbird BALL: Titleist Pro V1x

MATT FITZPATRICK EUROPEAN MASTERS DRIVER: TaylorMade M2 (9.5°) FAIRWAY WOOD: Ping G25 (15°, 20.5°) HYBRID: Titleist 816H1 (19°) IRONS: Ping i25 (3-5), Ping S55 (6-9) WEDGES: Titleist Vokey Design SM6 (47°, 54°, 58°) PUTTER: Yes! Tracy II BALL: Titleist Pro V1x

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

EQUIPMENT | SEPTEMBER 2017

[47]

LAUNCH CONTROL

Cleveland Golf’s new range of Launcher HB woods, hybrids and irons promises maximum forgiveness and maximum distance at an affordable price. What’s not to like?

A

fter almost three years out of the woods and irons market, as the brand focused on its industry-leading wedge and putter range, Cleveland Golf has returned to the mainstream equipment sector with a bang in the shape of an reinvention of its muchloved Launcher range.

Aimed at mid-to-high handicap golfers looking for easy playability, the new Launcher HB woods, hybrids and irons – as the name has always suggested – are designed to propel the ball high and straight for maximum distance with maximum forgiveness.

But what marks out the new HB range – especially in the woods and hybrid section – from many of its rivals in the market, is that it dispenses with adjustability technology in favour of focusing on performance elements that will help the majority of golfers.

The absence of an adjustable hosel not only has a significant impact on performance, but it also has a knock-on effect on price, with the lack of the costly technology required to offer multiple configurations resulting in the Launcher driver being up to 40% less expensive than some of the current models from top brands that feature adjustability.

Brian Schielke, Cleveland’s senior product manager, explained the thinking behind this

LAUNCHER HB DRIVER The Cleveland Launcher HB driver is unusual in the modern driver market in that it doesn’t offer adjustability. The simple argument for the absence of what has become almost standard in the industry is that most golfers simply don’t need it. Cleveland’s R&D team discovered that what most golfers – i.e. those with handicaps north of single digits – benefit most from is having a driver with built-in draw bias, and that offering by a driver that can open the clubface is simply a waste of time, and – more importantly – weight. Adjustable hosels are relatively heavy items, and doing away with them allows more weight to be placed lower and deeper into the clubhead to improve launch conditions for the majority of golfers.

Without needing to worry about adjustability, forward weight ports and such like, Cleveland’s design team focused on elements that improve the flexing of the face to increase ballspeed and distance on the Launcher HB. It starts with a wraparound cupface design, which increases the area of the face that flexes the most. It also includes a thin, slightly recessed HiBore crown and fins that fan out along the sole. That allows both the top and bottom of the club to give at impact to allow more face flexing around the perimeter.

The saved weight from the thin crown and not having an adjustable hosel is pushed low, back, and slightly towards the heel to provide more golfers with a higher-flying, more draw-biased flight. The theory isn’t that the Launcher HB hits only draws and hooks,

but that the predominant miss of most golfers – a slice – should be less pronounced.

“Anything that functionally improves performance, we added to this driver,” said Schielke. “But anything that hurts or is performance neutral, we left out. If you’re a tinkerer, or if you like to hit low fades or things like that, this isn’t the driver for you, but if you just want to hit it high and straight time after time, this performs.”

The Launcher HB Driver is available in lofts of 9, 10.5 and 12 degrees, with lightweight Miyazaki C. Kua graphite shafts as standard.

RRP: £279.

design decision: “When we looked into the woods and irons markets, we saw a major disconnect. Prices are increasing dramatically, while golfers aren’t seeing any significant performance gains. So we set out to create a range of products with true performance benefits that are obvious the moment a golfer swings one of these clubs.

“When it comes to drivers, a big part of the problem is excessive adjustability. These features are nice for some golfers, but are quite heavy, positioning weight in less than ideal locations. It’s a major trade-off in performance. By replacing those features with a lightweight hosel and weight positioned low and deep within the head, we built the Launcher HB driver with more forgiveness and incredible distance that will clearly show up on a launch monitor.”

LAUNCHER HB IRONS The fully hollow Launcher HB Irons are reminiscent of Cleveland’s successful hollow irons of the past, like the HiBore, and focus on giving maximum help to players that struggle to get traditional irons airborne.

They feature a high-strength steel face, and a HiBore crown and boast a hybrid-like design to help golfers launch the ball higher and further than typical cavity-back irons. A wide sole, a sloping recessed crown and back, and a high-strength steel face insert combine to encourage higher flight and faster ball speeds through a more flexible face design.

The shaft options are the same as offered in the CBX irons.

RRP: £570/£648 (st/gr, 4-PW), plus optional 50- and 56-degree wedges.

LAUNCHER HB FAIRWAY WOODS & HYBRIDS Many of the same technologies present in the Launcher HB driver are found in the rest of the Launcher HB metalwood family. Thus the fairway woods boast a cupface and lightweight recessed crown, which are designed to shift the centre of gravity lower and be more flexible, with the same finned sole design.

The hybrid also features the recessed crown to lower the centre of gravity, as well as the sole fins, to promote ballspeed and easy launch.

Further simplifying the approach are the loft options.

The fairways are offered in just 3 (15) and 5 (18) woods, while the hybrid options are 19, 22 and 25 degrees. Like the driver, both clubs feature lightweight Miyazaki C. Kua shafts to enhance swing speed.

RRP: £570/£648 (st/gr, 4-PW), plus an optional 50-degree wedge.

[48] SEPTEMBER 2017 | EQUIPMENT

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

GALVIN GREEN ACHILLES

TAYLORMADE MCGB IRONS £849/£1,099, TAYLORMADEGOLF.EU Marketed as like having ‘a bag full of drivers’, the re-invention of the muchmissed CGB (Centre of Gravity Back) iron has been thrown every conceivable bit of TaylorMade iron technology in a bid to create the ultimate power tool for the golfer who values distance above all other factors when it comes to choosing an iron.

Featuring a sub-2mm thick face from 4-iron to sand wedge, the super game improvement MCGB irons are designed to push the limits on ball speed, while ultra-low centre of gravity placement produces a combination of high trajectory and optimised spin rates to produce maximum carry and distance.

The cast stainless steel head features a combination of materials, including four tungsten weights in the toe which create a highly stable clubhead, while a speed slot in the sole, and face slots either side of the grooves, provide forgiveness where it is needed most and increase ball speeds on heel and toe miss-hits for improved consistency.

TaylorMade’s Inverted Cone Technology also makes its presence felt, with the cone moving progressively nearer to the toe as the set progresses from short to long irons. The entire clubhead has been fine-tuned for sound and feel, with the badge located directly behind the face specially designed to dampen vibrations and soften feel at impact.

The MCGB irons come with a choice of Nippon N.S. PRO 840 steel shafts or UST Recoil 460 ES graphite shafts. They go on sale on October 16.

£380, GALVINGREEN.COM Made from ultralightweight stretch Gore-Tex fabric with a C-Knit backer, the Achilles full-zip jacket features a high collar and cuffs in a rubber-like neoprene material designed to repel heavy rainfall. The C-Knit backer enables the garment to ‘slide and glide’ over garments worn underneath, avoiding restrictions to the swing. The jacket also includes adjustable chest tabs, an elasticated waist, plus a tonal zipper and back pocket. Colour options are iron grey/black/yellow, kings blue/black/white & black/iron grey/white, in sizes S–3XL.

PRO SHOP

YOUR GUIDE TO THE LATEST GEAR

SUN MOUNTAIN SUNDAY GOLF BAG

MIZUNO CLK SHOCKWAVE HYBRID £245, GOLF.MIZUNOEUROPE.COM Designed to be hit off the tee, fairway or from light rough, the new CLK hybrid features an eight-way adjustable hosel, allowing it to be tuned to fill the distance gap between the longest iron and shortest fairway wood.

Its amplified ‘shockwave’ sole – the first slot of which is much deeper than that found in the JPX 900 hybrid – is not only designed to deliver faster balls speeds, but also pushes weight lower and forward for a high, low-spinning flight. The ultra-thin, durable maraging steel face also gave Mizuno’s engineers the freedom to create a more stable clubhead.

Featuring a dark grey crown with a rounded profile and a beveled leading edge, the CLK is available in four lofts for right-handers – 16°, 19°, 22°, 25° – with the heads getting progressively bigger as you move up the range. The adjustable hosel enables 32 set-up possibilities, including +/- two degrees with upright options. Lefties have just the 16° and 19° models to choose from. The standard shaft is a Fujikura Speeder Evolution HB, while the grip option is Golf Pride’s M31 360.

£140, BRANDFUSIONLTD.CO.UK Sun Mountain’s H2NO Sunday is an ultralightweight bag made from the brand’s proven waterproof fabric, and boasts water-resistant zips and taped seams. It features retractable ‘stubby legs’ to keep it off the ground during play, and also incorporates a threeway padded divider; one full length and another half-length pocket; a rain hood; adjustable padded carry strap and hip pad; plus an umbrella holder and rubber carry handle.

There is also an extra pocket inside for valuables.

It comes in navy/grey and black/white.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

EQUIPMENT | SEPTEMBER 2017 [49]

TOULON DESIGN PUTTERS £399, ODYSSEYGOLF.COM Available to buy in Callaway preferred retailers for the first time in the UK from this month, the Toulon Design putter range, which is designed by TaylorMade’s former chief designer Sean Toulon, comprises seven models - five blades and two face-balanced mallets.

Currently in the bags of a handful of Callaway staff players, including Thomas Pieters, Pablo Larrazabal and Michelle Wie, Toulon Design putters feature a unique deep diamond mill face pattern combined with stainless steel heads. This channels vibrations to produce a softer, crisp, solid sound. They also boast an adjustable sole plate, which enables the weight of the head to be increased from 350g to 390g, depending on the model. The sole plates of the blades and the Memphis models are fully CNC milled from aluminum (7g), stainless steel (20g) or tungsten (40g) to allow the golfer to get the head weight they desire.

In addition, by marrying an adjustable sole plate with SuperStroke CounterCore weight options (25g or 50g), every Toulon putter can be counterbalanced. They are available in 33, 34 and 35-inch shaft lengths.

CALLAWAY APEX UTILITY IRON

PING G400 FAIRWAY WOODS £240, PING.COM The new G400 fairway woods feature many of the same technologies as the G400 drivers, including a thin, lightweight crown for optimised centre of gravity and increased MOI, an adjustable hosel, and a backweight that further boosts MOI and stability.

To maximise distance, Ping has used maraging steel in the faces, which is 28% thinner than the G30, and provides a combination of strength and flexibility to create faster ball speeds that launch shots farther and higher.

The grooves on the 3-wood are painted on to allow the face to be as thin as possible, whereas higher lofted woods have real grooves, as they are expected to be used from more grassy lies and therefore need the grooves to dispel moisture and dirt at impact.

The range also includes a 9-wood and three SFT (Straight Flight) choices (3, 5, 7), while a Stretch 3-wood is available in 13° and features a 43-inch shaft, larger clubhead and slightly forward CG location for lower spin.

Lofts: (adjustable up to +/-1°): 3W (14.5°), 5W (17.5°), 7W (20.5°), 9W (23.5°), 3 SFT (16°), 5 SFT (19°), 7 SFT (22°), Stretch 3W (13°).

£169, CALLAWAYGOLF.COM While aimed at better players for whom hybrids don’t necessarily appeal, the Apex utility irons boast bags of built-in forgiveness thanks to their hollow body construction and forged cup face design. The latter allows the face to flex slightly at impact to create higher ball speeds across a wider area at impact, while increased sole weighting lowers the clubhead’s centre of gravity, increases spin, and helps to get the ball airborne with ease.

Lofts options are 18°, 21° and 24°.

TITLEIST 718 AP3 IRON

NOOZIE PEBBLE £29.95, NOOZIECOMFORT.COM Wave goodbye to losing sensation in your fingers on those cold winter mornings with the Noozie Pebble, a compact electronic hand warmer that can also be used as a power bank for charging mobile devices. Ideal for warming up your hands during icy winter rounds, it provides re-useable double-sided heat in two heat settings that will warm your hands quickly and safely. The pebble heats up within seconds and stores up to four hours’ heat on a single charge. Choose from yellow, purple or pink. Blue is not an option, obviously.

£150/£175 PER CLUB (ST/GR), TITLEIST.CO.UK The headline act in the new 718 range of irons is undoubtedly the AP3, an entirely new model that merges everything Titleist has learned from the AP1 and AP2 irons to produce the ‘longest, fastest iron’ in the brand’s history. Perhaps best described as a ‘player improvement’ iron, the AP3 boasts a cast head, although it has a hollow-blade design with an undercut cavity and an unsupported face insert, which gives it its distanceenhancing properties. A hefty 84g of tungsten weights – a key feature of all AP irons – is placed in the heel and toe to increase stability in those harder-to hit mid-to-long irons, as well as produce higher ball speeds across the face, and provide the off-centre distance performance commonly associated with a much larger game improvement iron.

The face insert is high strength steel in a L-face shape so that the leading edge wraps around the sole of the club to to improve ball speed from lower strikes. The 8 and 9 irons use the same chassis, but the face insert is also stainless steel and in the two wedges it is a solid steel body and face.

For those that are happy to mix and match their sets, this new arrival presents the perfect opportunity for better players to add the AP3 long irons to a half set of AP2s mid and short irons, while AP1 players may like to add a little more precision to their short game by loading up on the more lofted clubs in the AP3 set.

[50] SEPTEMBER 2017 | EQUIPMENT

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

TRIED & TESTED:

MOTOCADDY S5 CONNECT Nick Bayly puts Motocaddy’s new S5 Connect trolley, which comes with a built-in GPS, through its paces Despite rarely hitting the same club the same distance on any given day, I, like a lot of other incompetent golfers out there, still like to know my yardages. For reasons beyond logic, I’ve never truly trusted course markers or even carefully-mapped course planners, so the arrival of golf GPS units in all their various guises has been a godsend for an OCD golfer like me who needs to know the distance to every conceivable hazard, point of interest and, of course, the pin.

Another invention that has been key to my continued love affair with the game is the power trolley. Inherently lazy as I am, I’d happily play all my golf from the driver’s seat of a buggy if I could. Anyone for golf polo? Sadly, that’s not permissible under the rules, so I have to rely on other mechanical means to transport my clubs, if not actually play the shots. Which is why I’ve used a power trolley for as long as I’ve been able to ‘borrow’ one.

All this is a long-winded, but extremely essential explanation as to why the arrival of a power trolley with built-in GPS has, quite literally, my name on it. Well, not ‘quite literally’, otherwise it would be called the Motocaddy S5 Connect Nick Bayly, which, while fine with me, might cost the company a few sales.

Based on the brand’s previous S3 Pro model, of which I have past and happy experience, the S5 Connect throws in a 3.3cm x 2.2cm LCD screen that not only tells you which hole number you’re on, and its par, but also offers yardages to the

front, middle and back of greens. While this offers little more than that delivered by the most basic of entry-level GPS units, things get a little more interesting, and informative, when you pair up the trolley with a smartphone and download Motocaddy’s app. With the two models ‘talking’ via Bluetooth, a vast array of further information is made available, including colour maps of the course you’re playing.

The Motocaddy App is available on iOS and Android phones, and turns into a standalone handheld GPS device by using the iGolf database to provide GPS distances for over 36,000 courses worldwide. Any course updates are handled through the app and you can make update requests through it too.

The app quickly locates the course you are on, and if you are on a course with a poor phone signal, or abroad without data roaming, then I would recommend doing this over Wi-Fi at home or in the clubhouse before you go out to play.

Scrolling between the holes is easy, and you can pinch to zoom in and out on the images, and then

slide the Motocaddy logo around to get distances to hazards and lay up positions.

Also mounted in the handle is a separate display for the power, a speed indicator (1-9), and a battery light, which turns from green to red when it’s about to die on you.

On the controls front, the speed dial works in the usual way and comes with adjustable distance control to send the trolley 15, 30 or 45 yards before stopping. It’s a feature I rarely use – I have trust issues with machinery – but it’s nice to know you can send it packing if you want to. The soft touch handle also houses a USB charging port – which is handy for keeping your smartphone in action, as using the app will draw down heavily on your battery. I’d also advise buying an accessory cradle, so that your phone is in eye view.

Elsewhere, the S5 Connect offers Motocaddy’s very nifty QuikFold system, which allows you to erect the trolley from folded by pushing a button on the frame and lifting it up until it clicks.

Most cart bags will fit easily onto the cradle, but if you have a Motocaddy bag then you can use the EasiLock system, which features two screw-in studs on the base of the bag, which clip into the footplate so you don't have to bother with the lower strap. The top strap is very stretchy and clips on securely.

Slip in the standard lithium battery, which is

UK MANUFACTURER LAUNCHES BESPOKE INSOLES DIRECT

BENEFITS

According to the R&A a typical golfer will walk an average of 6.6 miles on every round at Royal County Down. Depending on your handicap you could be walking even further, thatʼs why it is so important your feet are well supported.

■ Use high-quality industry-leading materials for shock absorption, impact reduction, the control of foot odour, reduced friction and to give overall foot comfort

A long established professional foot orthotic manufacturer in the UK providing high-quality foot orthoses to leading golfers, has launched a unique new service ‘Bespoke Insoles’. Now you can order direct from the manufacturer for new insoles, or duplicates of existing orthotics, saving you time and money. No need for a medical.

HOW IT WORKS

To obtain an accurate high-quality performance bespoke insole, simply visit the website at www.bespokeinsoles.com select the Shop Bespoke Insoles menu, the golf insoles option and follow the instructions. Once you have checked-out, a unique foot impression kit will be sent to you, simply step into the foam box supplied and return to the manufacturer for the production of your accurate fitting, comfortable insoles that will correctly align your body. Delivery is free on all orders and are delivered direct to you in 3 to 5 working days.

Bespoke Insoles help you feel great on the course with their custommade foot orthotics, they can help promote better balance providing a more a stable platform from which to execute your swing, possibly giving you more power and control over your shots.

BESPOKE INSOLES ALSO:

■ Have the latest technology to laser scan impressions and CNC machine the insoles to produce an accurate insole ■ Provide long-lasting, comfortable supportive control

Price: £549.99 lithium battery, £599.99 extended lithium battery (five-year warranty).

For more details, visit www.motocaddy.com.

READER OFFER

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your next pair of custom-made insoles

Order direct from the manufacturer for new insoles, or duplicates of existing orthotics, saving you time and money.

■ Support your feet in their correct anatomical position ■ Are designed to fit any footwear ■ Give a 30-day money-back guarantee ■ help improve your performance with less painful more comfortable feet ■ Reduces the movement inside your shoe The wider company is a long established professional foot orthotics lab that has been providing the highest quality foot orthoses to the medical profession for many years, they have supplied world champion athletes, professional footballers, golfers and tennis players with high-quality performance enhancing insoles.

Now they are able to provide customers with the same comfortable and performance enhancing ‘Custom Made Foot Orthotics’, without having to see a medical professional.

To discuss your next order for insoles Call 01623 232869, Email enquiries@bespokeinsoles.com or visit the website at www.bespokeinsoles.com

As experts in foot orthotic manufacturing, they can also make duplicates of your existing custom orthotics, recover and repair your existing orthoses.

light and can be left in place when the trolley is folded, and you have everything the S3 Pro offers, and the ease of use and performance is just as good.

The standard model is powered by a 200W motor, or there is a DHC Downhill Control version with a 230W motor to moderate the speed of the trolley down slopes for an extra £50, which, in this instance, could be a worthwhile upgrade.

All in all, the S5 Connect is ideal for golfers looking for the level of data offered by a mid-range handheld GPS device wrapped up in one of the best designed power trolleys on the market. It’s neat, folds down easily, and does what it says on the tin.

Reader offer is valid up to the 31st January 2018.

Just enter the voucher code GN10 when you check out.

www.bespokeinsoles.com

Bespoke Insoles, The Broadway, Mansfield NG18 2RL Tel 01623 232869. Email enquiries@bespokeinsoles.com Web www.bespokeinsoles.com Step into comfort without leaving your home or golf course

Helping you feel great from the ground up

EQUIPMENT | SEPTEMBER 2017

1. EXCELLENCE IN INNOVATION Lynx is regarded as one of the most innovative equipment manufacturers in the golf industry – with a pedigree stretching back to the 1970s.

In 2014, its ground-breaking Boom Boom black irons were the world’s first one-piece heads to feature the Twin Slot Technology. This unique ‘double slot’ design continues in Lynx’s latest premium clubs, the powerful #BB irons – which offer supreme consistency, performance and power.

2. BRITISH BRAND

5. YOU CAN TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

TO

LYNX GOLF

Lynx is a family-owned business based in Surrey, so when you buy Lynx you are supporting a British company. Lynx’s research and development team is based here, alongside its club designers, marketers, sales force and retail support staff. All of its staff are hugely passionate about the brand and are fully committed to golf and to giving golfers access to great gear at affordable prices

Lynx has a full-time demo team covering the length and breadth of the country, and running more than 500 demo days at golf clubs every year.

With a live calendar of dates available on its website, any golfer can locate their nearest demo day and try Lynx clubs completely free of charge. In addition, Lynx also makes many of its clubs available on an ‘open stock’ basis – which means your local PGA Pro stockist can order you a single club to try out, without you having to commit to a full set.

6. FULL RANGES FOR WOMEN AND JUNIORS As well as offering a range of men’s equipment that hits all the important price points, from entry level to top of the range, Lynx is fully committed to women’s golf and junior golf. Lynx has several specially-designed ladies’ ranges, which is very rare in today’s market, and also makes a junior range which spans golfers from aged two right through to 16. As these clubs can be bought individually, this offers parents an inexpensive and attractive way to introduce their child to golf..

3. COMMITTED TO GROWING THE GAME Since re-establishing itself as a major golf brand, Lynx has consistently supported initiatives to grow the game – as well as launching ideas of its own to get more people into golf. For example, Lynx runs a club loan initiative, whereby any golf club which runs taster days, or promotions to get more people playing, can borrow sets of Lynx clubs for budding golfers to use.

When you buy Lynx, you are engaging with a brand that cares about the future of your sport.

7. THE BLACK CAT IS BETTER THAN EVER Lynx’s famous Black Cat marque has built a deserved reputation for quality and performance. The new adjustable Black Cat driver, adjustable fairway wood, and hybrid rescue clubs, all contain new technology designed in the UK by the Surrey-based company’s R&D team, and further underpin the brand’s status among the most forward-thinking and innovative equipment companies in golf. The Black Cat driver is packed with advanced technology, including the Lynx Spin Control System – a removable and reversible weight bar which repositions weight either further forward, or further back, in the clubhead.

4. OUTSTANDING CUSTOM-FITTING SERVICE Every golfer who buys Lynx has the opportunity to be custom fitted at the company’s state-of-the-art swing studio and custom fit centre in Weybridge, Surrey. Manned by PGA professionals, who make up all Lynx golf clubs on the premises, the centre features a Foresight Sports simulator, powered by GC2 and HMT. This outstanding facility allows the Lynx team to work directly

with its PGA Professional retailers to give club golfers access to some of the best custom-fitting data in the world.

REASONS PLAY

[51]

■ DAME LAURA DAVIES PLAYS LYNX CLUBS ON TOUR

Visit www.lynxgolf.co.uk

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

[52] SEPTEMBER 2017 | EQUIPMENT

EQUIPMENT /WINTER COLLECTION 2017 2017 AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION NEWS R COLLECTION 2017 COLLECTION 2017 AUTUMN/WINTER

LLECTION 2017

PING HAS WINTER WRAPPED UP AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION 2017 R COLLECTION 2017 MN/WINTER COLLECTION 2017 PING HAS REVEALED its 2017 Autumn/Winter apparel lines, billed as the brand’s most technologically advanced ever.

The new clothing range is designed to combine apparel technologies and performance driven fabrics, with craftsmanship and attention to detail.

PING Sensor Platform is on show, which includes Pertex and the new PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active, an established technology in the outdoor market, allowing for breathable insulation. The new waterproof suit continues the partnerships with Pertex and Coolmax.

Highlights in the mens’ range include the waterproof Norse jacket (£140), a quilted polyester top, which features lightweight high-performance thermal insulation, which will keep you both warm and dry.

There’s also an update to the brand’s popular Zero Gravity Tour Suit (£180 jacket, £130 trousers), which is constructed from ultra-lightweight Pertex Shield 2.5 layer fabric, offering stretch and breathability. Fully seamsealed throughout, both the jacket and trousers offer waterproof protection, and feature stretch properties for easy swinging in all condition. As an added convenience, the entire suit can be packed away into its own pocket.

ESTANISLAO GOYA | CALLAWAY TOUR PROFESSIONAL

A new addition to the Sensor Warm range is the Innis half-zip top (£95). A double knit construction between the face and the back of the fabric creates a space that traps air, which provides insulation, while the innovative fabric also has a water repellent properties, keeping the wearer dry in light showers, while a stretch construction provides additional comfort and freedom of movement.

The Crosby long sleeve polo is also another handy garment for the winter golfer’s wardrobe, featuring a blend of synthetic and breathable natural fibres to keep the wearer warm, yet dry. It boasts a concealed button down collar and a three-button placket.

Among the highlights of the comprehensive women’s range is the Oslo jacket and vest (£140/£120), which feature PrimaLoft Silver Insulation Active throughout to deliver lightweight, high-performance thermal insulation, while the Tara top (£65) is an ideal winter layering piece, ocombines moisture movement performance with quick drying properties, in a stretch and crease resistant-material with an eye-catching design.

For more details on the entire 2017 Autumn/Winter range, visit ping.com.

HENNI ZUËL | CALLAWAY TOUR PROFESSIONAL

TRENDYGOLF ADDS We wear Callaway... do you? llaway... do you?

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HENNI ZUËL | CALLAWAY TOUR PROFESSIONAL

@ApparelCallaway CallawayEuropeApparel.com

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TRENDYGOLF, the UK’s leading golf fashion online retailer, has 09/08/2017 12:23 added a women’s HENNIstyle ZUËLsection | CALLAWAY TOUR PROFESSIONAL to its website.

gistered trademarks of Callaway Golf Company. Perry Ellis Europe is an official licensee of Callaway Golf Company.

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ESTANISLAO GOYA | CALLAWAY TOUR PROFESSIONAL

09/08/2017 12:23

HENNI ZUËL |

With tips, advice and inspiration on a broad range of brands, a dedicated landing CALLAWAY TOUR PROFESSIONAL page is on site with a contact for help with product requests on fit, style and sizing.

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O GOYA | CALLAWAY TOUR PROFESSIONAL

HENNI ZUËL | CALLAWAY TOUR PROFESSIONAL

Laura Barrow, women's buyer at Trendygolf, said: "We want to inspire subscribers to09/08/2017 dress well 12:23 so they feel good and play even better.”

wear Callaway... do you? @ApparelCallaway CallawayEuropeApparel.com @ApparelCallaway CallawayEuropeApparel.com CALLAWAY #IWEARCALLAWAY CallawayEuropeApparel.com HENNI ZUËL | CALLAWAY TOUR PROFESSIONAL

and offer some genuine advice different tastes. But our brands She added: “Before joining and provide a few ideas. like J Lindeberg, Puma and Trendygolf, I personally Nike, have been pioneers in ©2017 Callaway Golf Company. Callaway and the Chevron device are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Callaway Golf Company. Perry Ellis Europe is an official licensee of Callaway Golf Company. understood the struggle that "A lot of golfers can look a bit ©2017 Callaway Golf Company. Callaway and the Chevron device are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Callaway Golf Company. Perry Ellis Europe is an official licensee of Callaway Golf Company. introducing tailored, feminine comes with trying to find similar and women generally fits and bolder colour schemes G+HZ-WeWear-TodaysGolfer.indd 1 09/08/2017 12:23 good quality, well-fitted, don't usually want to wear to allow women golfers @ApparelCallaway CallawayEuropeApparel.com ered trademarks of Callaway Golf Company. Perry Ellis Europe is an official licensee of Callaway Golf Company. golf clothing while adding what someone else is wearing. 09/08/2017 EG+HZ-WeWear-TodaysGolfer.indd 1 12:23 their individual to express a feminine touch to the golf They want something different. mpany. Callaway and the Chevron device are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Callaway Golf Company. Perry Ellis Europe is an official licensee of Callaway Golf Company. personality on the course." course. It's not as easy it as We have a broad mix of 09/08/2017 12:23 should be for women golfers, women golfers among our For more details, er.indd 1 09/08/2017 12:23 so we want to be approachable customers and people have visit trendygolf.com. ©2017 Callaway Golf Company. Callaway and the Chevron device are trademarks and/or registered

LLECTION 2017 ay... do you?

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trademarks of Callaway Golf Company. Perry Ellis Europe is an official licensee of Callaway Golf Company.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

LIFE IN PICTURES

■ THE NEW MP 18 FAMILY OF IRONS IS DESIGNED TO MEET THE DEMANDS OF HIGHLY SKILLED PLAYERS WHILE OFFERING ADDED FORGIVENESS

MIZUNO MP18 IRONS The arrival of any new set of Mizuno MP irons is always an keenly anticipated moment in the world of golf equipment, and that’s certainly the case with the new MP 18 range, which sees the Japanese brand return to its classical roots to create three full sets of irons that will have good players across the world itching to get their hands on them.

■ THE HEADS ARE MADE FROM SINGLE BILLETS OF SOFT CARBON STEEL

In the past, MP irons were hand ground by Mizuno’s master craftsmen at its factory in Yoro, who created irons for major winners such as Nick Faldo, but with the advancement in computer milling technology, CAD drawings took over, and some of the personality that went into creating a set of pure forged irons was lost. However with the new MP 18 irons, Mizuno has gone back to the old ways to recreate its classic MP style.

While they start out life on a computer, they are then given to the craftsmen to refine and to put Faldo's lines back in, before being scanned back into the computer to continue the modern production process. It’s a time-consuming and expensive method, but one that ensures absolute precision and perfection. Which is nothing less than you’d expect when you invest in a set of Mizuno irons.

■ EVERY MP 18 IRON IS HAND MILLED DURING THE PRODUCTION PROCESS

Available in a forged muscle back, split cavity-back, and a more forgiving multi-material construction iron, the MP 18 range is designed to be mixed and matched to suit the needs of the better golfer from the long irons through to the wedges, while there are also four MP 18 Fli-Hi long iron replacements (2-5) for those players looking for more forgiveness at the top end of the bag.

RRP: £135-£150 per club.

For more details, visit golf.mizunoeurope.com

■ MIZUNO HAS ITS FOUNDARY IN JAPAN, ENSURING HIGH PRODUCTION VALUES

■ MIZUNO'S MASTER CRAFSTMEN INSPECT EACH IRON TO ENSURE IT MEETS THE COMPANY'S TIGHT PRUDUCTION TOLERANCES

[54] SEPTEMBER 2017 | EQUIPMENT

LOFTY AMBITIONS HIT IT CLOSE WITH THE LATEST RANGE OF PERFORMANCE WEDGES

MIZUNO S18 £140 GOLF.MIZUNOEUROPE.COM

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

CALLAWAY MACK DADDY 3 £109, CALLAWAYGOLF.COM All MD3 wedges feature a milled groove design, which optimises spin as the loft increases. The 30V grooves in the pitching and gap wedges are built for shots that require a steep angle into the ball, while the 20V grooves in the sand wedges are designed for full shots and bunker shots, and the wider 5V grooves in the lob wedges for better control for shots out of the rough and around the green. Featuring a high toe profile and a semi-straight leading edge, each wedge boasts weight ports in the rear of the club for better shot-making control. They are available in a choice of three grinds – S, W and C. The S has a neutral set up for all-round playability; the W has a wider sole for steep swing arcs; while the C, with its low leading edge, is ideal for use on firmer turf. Choose from satin chrome or matt black finishes.

PING GLIDE 2.0 £130, PING.COM

Each wedge in the new 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. Choose from black or chrome finishes and your own custom stamping. Available from 46˚ to 62˚ in black or chrome, each wedge can be custom stamped with up to six characters.

Precision-milled, tour-spec grooves vary in design and configuration depending on the loft in Ping's Glide 2.0 wedge. From 54˚ to 60˚, the grooves feature a shallower sidewall, a sharper edge radius, and two additional grooves compared to the 50˚ and 52˚ models.

The hydropearl chrome finish helps repel water, producing better spin control from different lies in wet conditions. They are available in four sole widths and grinds: TS, a thin sole, low-bounce option in the higher lofts; SS, a standard sole offering mid-bounce in every loft; WS, a wider-soled, high-bounce option in the higher lofts; and ES, the Eye Sole that offers an 8˚ bounce option from 54˚ to 60˚.

TAYLORMADE MILLED GRIND

TITLEIST VOKEY SM6

£139, TAYLORMADEGOLF.EU

£140, TITLEIST.CO.UK

Hand ground from soft carbon steel, each leading edge, sole grind and scoreline is individually CNC-milled to extremely tight tolerances. This process reproduces the master design of the surfaces that have most impact on performance. The range is offered in three bounce options – low, standard and high – which are designed to suit different swing types and ground conditions, with low offering the least amount of ground resistance, and the standard being the most versatile. New grooves feature 38% steeper sidewalls that reduce launch angle and increase spin rate, while closer spacing allows an additional groove to be milled for increased control on shots hit low on the clubface. They are offered in 48, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58 and 60-degree lofts in chrome or a new bronze finish.

Bob Vokey’s latest creations feature a progressive centre of gravity design that corresponds with the ideal impact area of each loft. Thus the low-lofted models have a low centre of gravity, thinner topline and raised area in the lower portion of the clubhead, which increases ball speed and distance and feature. The mid-lofts have a mid CG location for improved distance gapping, while the high lofts have a high CG for improved trajectory control.

The result is more precise control of distance and trajectory throughout the set. Other features include a new parallel groove pattern that improves spin consistency. Lower lofted models (46-54) feature a narrower, deeper version of the groove, while the mid and higher lofts (56-62) feature a wider, shallower groove. There are five sole grinds (L, M, S, F, K), and they are available in chrome, grey or black finishes.

CLEVELAND RTX-3

LYNX TOUR WEDGE

£99, CLEVELANDGOLF.COM

£65, LYNGOLF.CO.UK

The RTX-3 boasts improved consistency and control over its predecessor, the RTX 2.0, courtesy of a shift in the clubhead’s centre of gravity, which has been moved from an area nearer the heel to a new position more in line with the centre of the face. This has been achieved by shaving 9g off the hosel, which has been thinned and shortened. Pushing those vital grammes closer to the toe and rear of the head improves stability, and results in more consistent spin and tighter shot dispersion. The range includes blade and cavity models and three different sole grinds, adding up to 34 loft and bounce combinations. The LG is a narrow, low bounce sole for maximum versatility, the MG has mid bounce for a wide range of conditions, and the FG boasts a full sole with trailing edge relief. A new Rotex Face features deeper, narrower grooves and a new milled face pattern, both of which increase friction for more spin. Choose from satin, black satin or raw finishes.

Lynx’s Tour Wedges boast a classic teardrop shape and feature CNC-milled faces that delivers optimised surface roughness to maximise spin on the shortest of shots. It also features an improved sole design for more playability from a variety of lies, while the heads are hand-forged from heat-treated 8620 mild carbon steel to ensure tight tolerances and consistency, and offer maximum feel. They are available in 52°, 56° and 60° loft options, with bounce angles of 7°, 13° and 8° respectively. They are offered in a choice of chrome or fossil finishes to suit your preferred look.

YOUR GUIDE TO GOLFING TRIPS AT HOME AND ABROAD

TRAVEL AND BREAKS

SEPTEMBER 2017 WEB: GOLFNEWS.CO.UK/TRAVEL

CHARMING CHARLESTON AMERICA'S BEST SMALL CITY IS BIG ON GOLF

ALSO IN THIS MONTH'S TRAVEL: ME AND MY TRAVELS WITH ROBBIE FOWLER SARAH STIRK HAS SWEDE DREAMS ALL THE LATEST TRAVEL & GOLF BREAK DEALS WIN A GOLF BREAK TO SPAIN MANOR HOUSE AND ASHBURY HOTEL REVIEWED SPOTLIGHT ON NORTH-EAST ITALY

[56] SEPTEMBER 2017 | TRAVEL

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEW WINTER DEALS AT OLD THORNS G

olfers can enjoy the fabulous facilities on offer at Old Thorns Manor Hotel Golf & Country Estate in Hampshire for as little as £99 this winter, when booking directly with the resort.

Tucked away in 400 acres of stunning countryside just off the A3, Old Thorns is one of southern England’s most picturesque country house-style hotels, and offers luxury accommodation in 160 bedrooms, relaxing health spa facilities, fantastic cuisine, and an outstanding 6,581-yard, 18-hole championship course, designed by the legendary Peter Allliss, who is also the club’s president.

With notoriously fast greens and plenty of natural hazards, the par-72 design is a challenging layout, while the topography of the course creates some wonderful views over the rolling Hampshire countryside from several elevated tees.

The course has benefitted from substantial investment in recent years, with an ongoing bunker renovation programme set to result in the introduction of riveted faces to all of the course's 46 traps, while enhancing the playability and aesthetics of these hazards.

Several new tees have also been leveled and extended, including those on the second, 7th and 14th holes, which has dramtically improved the playing experience, while a completely new tee has been constructed on the ■ THE ATRIUM CHAMPAGNE BAR par-three fourth hole, which will be in use throughout the winter.

Old Thorns has a great range of dining options, including the 250-seater Kings Brasserie where the hotel’s legendary carvery is served alongside a suputous a la carte menu, while more relaxed pub-style food is available in the Sports Bar, where golfers can enjoy a beer and delicious pub-style food in more informal surroundings, while catching live sporting events on TV. For late night drinks, guests can head to the Atrium Champagne and Cocktail Bar, which is open every evening.

Winter residential breaks at the Liphook-based resort can be booked for just £99 per person, offering one night’s dinner, bed and breakfast, and two rounds of golf on the championship course from November through to March, while special winter fourballs can be booked for just £100, including two buggies.

For details of the latest residential and green-fee only packages, visit www.oldthorns.com or call 01428 724555.

■ SEVERAL ELEVATED TEES OFFER STUNNING VIEWS OF THE HAMPSHIRE COUNTRYSIDE

Southern Counties

HEATHLAND GOLF TOURS

To enquire call:

01822 618181 Website:

Email:

schgt.co.uk

info@exclusivegolfbreaks.com

Five of England’s finest heathland courses have joined forces as Southern Counties Heathland Golf Tour Blackmoor, Hankley Common, Hindhead, Liphook and West Sussex Staying at top quality hotels and Inns.

Packages start from just £339 playing three rounds of golf and two nights B&B at a top venue

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TRAVEL | SEPTEMBER 2017

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W

PHOTO BY DARREN KIRK WWW.SCRATCHDESIGN.BIZ

CARNOUSTIE TEE TIMES NOW AVAILABLE FOR 2018 for those wishing to experience everything that Carnoustie Golf Links has to offer.

Carnoustie offers great value on combination tickets, with tee times for two courses costing £240, or £250 to play all three.

The Burnside oozes character and is another true test of links golf, whilst the Buddon Links is the newest of the trio, and has recently been the subject of a £1m investment to bring the course up to a very testing par 68.

Golfers wishing to book a tee time on any of the three courses at Carnoustie can do so via the booking section of the links’ newlook website – www.carnoustiegolflinks.co.uk/booking.

ith the 147th Open Championship less than 10 months away, tee times for the 2018 season can now be booked on any of the three courses at Carnoustie Golf Links.

The world’s best golfers will descend on the historic venue in July next year, and visitors from across the globe can get a taste of the Carnoustie challenge that awaits the likes of Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth and Sergio Garcia. The Championship course has hosted seven Open Championships, and hosts it eighth between 16-22 July, 2018.

Tee times can be booked on the Championship, Burnside or Buddon Links courses, while a combination ticket is available

HIT ENGLAND’S ATLANTIC LINKS THIS AUTUMN W

ith free-draining fairways and firm greens, the stunning links that line the north coast of Devon and Cornwall come into their own in the autumn months, when inland courses are beginning to soften up.

The six courses that form the Atlantic Links trail along the dramatic backdrop of the north Atlantic coastline boast a combined age of almost 700 years, with Royal North Devon being the eldest, having been founded in 1864, while both Burnham & Berrow and St Enodoc were founded in 1890, and Saunton East in 1897, with the younger members, Trevose and Saunton West, having been established in 1925 and 1937 respectively.

Burnham & Berrow is particularly noted for its distinct sand hills that form stubborn, natural obstacles, along with the buckthorn and even a marsh for golfers to avoid mid-way through a round. Throw in the prevailing south-westerly winds that whip in from the Atlantic and along the Bristol Channel, and golfers are left with a links challenge not for the faint hearted.

Royal North Devon is not only the senior citizen of the Atlantic Links, but is also England’s oldest golf course. Indeed, this unique links course, set on common land on which livestock still graze today, has hardly changed in 150 years, and to play it is like taking a step back in time and seeing how golf was played in Victorian England.

Further down the Devon coast is Saunton, set in the remote shadows of the giant sand dunes of Braunton Burrows, where its two championship courses, East and West, are among the greatest links in the world.

Exclusive Golf Breaks is offering two-night breaks staying at the Barnstaple Hotel, and playing rounds at Burnham & Berrow, Royal North Devon and Saunton West, from £279pp; while £319 will secure two nights at a B&B in Trevose, with rounds at Burnham & Berrow, St Enodoc, and Trevose.

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

■ SAUNTON GOLF CLUB IS AN IDEAL VENUE FOR A WINTER GAME

2017 09 Golf News - Golf Breaks.qxp_166mm h x 145mm w 04/09/2017 16:59 Page 1

2017 Golf Breaks from £85

Wish you were here

Ufford Park Woodbridge

1 night Golf & Spa Breaks from only £95* per person includes complimentary use of the Health Club with it’s gym and pool.

Looking for the perfect all year round venue for your golf break?

Set in the heart of Suffolk and located just off the A12, our 18 hole, par 71 course is ideal for the beginner or the experienced player.

1 Night Golf Break including Bed & Breakfast plus 2 Rounds of Golf starts from just £85pp!!

Book NOW for 2017 with only a 10% deposit For further information, please call Club Reception on 01566 86903 or email: reservations@trethornegolfclub.com

Trethorne Golf Club Kennards House Launceston Cornwall PL15 8QE

01566

86903

www.trethornegolfclub.com

CELEBRATING

*Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability.

t 0844 847 9408 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road| Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW

YEARS 7

Summer 2017

Book your tee time online, visit the on-site AmericanGolf superstore and practice your swing on our 2 tier floodlit driving range, all before you even set foot on the lovingly cared for, award-winning, top winter course.

1

CORNWALL GOLF BREAKS

1992-2

0

[58] SEPTEMBER 2017 | TRAVEL

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ THE LAKES AT FAR GRANGE OFFERS LUXURY ACCOMMODATION IN A TRANQUIL SETTING

FAR GRANGE LODGES OPEN UP YORKSHIRE’S GOLF COAST G

STAY AT CASTLE STUART AND IMPROVE YOUR GOLF A

■ FAR GRANGE BOASTS IT OWN GOLF COURSE AND IS NOT FAR FROM GANTON

olfers looking to enjoy luxury lodgings while playing some of the white rose county of Yorkshire’s stunning golf courses should consider staying at The Lakes at Far Grange Park, a development of new luxury lodges located near Skipsea.

The exclusive development, owned by Haven, is set in idyllic landscaped grounds, overlooking the unspoilt East Yokshire coastline and is the perfect place to enjoy peace, quiet and exclusivity, as well as access to the region’s extensive supply of quality golf courses.

The collection of eight two- and three-bedroom lodges blend naturally into the surroundings, offering a truly relaxing home away from home. With prices ranging from £198,000 to £283,000,

each features modern en-suite facilities connected to the master bedroom, along with an additional family bathroom. Available in four different styles, each comes with a fully-fitted kitchen with built-in appliances, including a dishwasher and wine cooler, and features bespoke furniture throughout.

Owners and rental guests enjoy membership of a private clubhouse, where they can enjoy food and drink, as well as evening entertainment and a selection of social activities, including party nights, a wine club, and experience days learning to dance or learning a new language.

Lodge owners also have access to the vast array of sporting and leisure facilities on offer, including a spa, swimming pool, fishing lakes, family entertainment, and sports activities such as bowls and tennis, as well as Far Grange’s excellent 18-hole parkland course, which offers stunning sea views from several holes.

Far Grange Holiday Park is close to idyllic beaches and the nearby towns of Skipsea, Hornsea and Bridlington, and is within striking distance of over a dozen excellent golf courses, including the magnificent cliff-top links at Flamborough Head, which is 15 miles away, while Ganton Golf Club, past host of the Ryder Cup, Solheim Cup and Walker Cup, is also within a 30-minute drive, and is a must-play for all golfing enthusiasts.

■ THE LODGES FEATURE LUXURY INTERIORS WITH BESPOKE FITTINGS

For more details call 0333 2020 772 or visit www.lodge-retreats.co.uk.

Make yourself at home in the heart of Gleneagles Rentals at Glenmor The Gleneagles experience is one of a kind – you can now enjoy it from the comfort of a Glenmor luxury holiday home, located in the heart of Gleneagles.

On your stay you can enjoy complimentary golf for one person, plus access to all of the leisure, dining and pursuits of the 5 star Gleneagles estate.

A main season 2 bedroom rental starts from £2,720 for 7 nights.

Find out more Visit gleneagles.com Call 01764 694 321 Email own@gleneagles.com The Timeshare, Holiday Products, Resale and Exchange Contracts Regulation 2010 requires Gleneagles to provide you with certain key information in relation to the proposed seasonal ownership contract. A standard information form which contains this key information in relation to that contract may be obtained by contacted us via the above methods.

world-renowned golf course is pitching a new accommodation and coaching package to visitors to help them make the most of their stay in the Scottish Highlands.

The deal includes staying in luxury on-site lodges at Castle Stuart Golf Links – which has hosted the European Tour’s Scottish Open four times since 2011 – with introductory lessons in links golf by former tour pro Gillian Stewart.

Stewart, a former Curtis Cup player and four-time winner on the Ladies European Tour, is now a respected coach based at Castle Stuart, near Inverness.

Stuart McColm, Castle Stuart’s general manager, said the package is ideal for first-time visitors to a links course: “Links golf is a different challenge for some players and getting advice and learning a few shots from an expert like Gillian before teeing off will help visitors enjoy the experience to the full. It underlines that coming to the Highlands is the smart way to arrive in Scotland and begin a Scottish golf itinerary.”

Stewart added: “These packages are an easy and convenient way to enjoy the spectacular Castle Stuart course and learn more about links golf, while improving your game. The key is that golfers will be able to design their tuition packages around their own requirements. One-hour individual lessons, course lessons, plus the specific links golf

■ THE FARMHOUSE IS ONE OF THREE PROPERTIES AVAILABLE TO RENT

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

TRAVEL | SEPTEMBER 2017 [59]

■ THE MAGNIFICENT LINKS AT CASTLE STUART

■ GILLIAN STEWART WITH HER FIRST GROUP OF STAY-AND-LEARN GUESTS

lessons, are all available.”

The package, which starts at £385 per person (based on eight sharing a four-bedroom lodge), includes transfers from Inverness airport, two rounds of golf at Castle Stuart, two nights’ accommodation in one of the four-bedroom lodges, and a 30-minute introductory links golf lesson.

Liz Kynoch, a member of Highgate Golf Club in London, and

Liz Pendered and Sandie Meacher, members at Moor Park Golf Club in Hertfordshire, were the first golfers to try the deal, ahead of the official launch. Kynoch said: “Combining an outstanding coach, a top-class links course and luxury accommodation, makes Castle Stuart a perfect destination. Several top courses offer on-site accommodation and golf tuition, but none can match Castle Stuart’s ability to combine a truly outstanding coach, one of the country’s most stunning courses, luxury accommodation and true Highland hospitality - all of which give the feel of a welcoming, friendly members' course you will wish to return to as soon as you leave.”

Pendered added: “The jewel in the crown for me was the beautiful course, with the Moray Firth never far away. Second to that, the service provided by staff in the clubhouse, pro shop and half-way house, all drilled with attention to detail. Gillian's coaching package was a delightful add-on. She is an insightful coach, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the season with her recommendations and tips.”

For more details, visit castlestuartgolf.com or call 01463 796111.

St Mellons Golf Club St Mellons, Cardiff, CF3 2XS Tel: 01633 680 408 Email: secretary@stmellonsgolfclub.co.uk

EXCLUSIVE GOLF DAY

CRAIGMILLAR PARK GOLF CLUB Golfing Packages

If you would like to know more about our catering services, please get in touch with the bar manager by emailing gav2308@hotmail.co.uk; or calling 0131 667 0047.

Shotgun Start Coffee, Tea and a Bacon Roll 18 Holes of Golf Two Course Evening Meal for 72 people From £1995

ULTIMATE GOLF DAY Coffee, Tea and a Bacon Roll 18 Holes of Golf Two Course Meal 1 x Free Beer Per Person £32 per Person * Subject to availability & date restrictions apply

The Dookit

The Observatory

£42 weekdays or £48 weekends

£32 weekdays or £42 weekends

The Castle

10% reduction for 16+ golfers

Tea/Coffee and hot roll 18 holes 2-course meal

10 holes Soup & Sandwiches OR Hot Roll & Tea/Coffee £20 Weekdays or £20 Weekends

18 holes Soup & Sandwiches OR Hot Roll & Tea/Coffee

Other packages can be tailored to your requirements.

Reduced rates are available for packages between November and March please contact the Club Office.

craigmillarpark.co.uk

[60] SEPTEMBER 2017 | COURSE REVIEW

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

COURSE REVIEW COURSE REVIEW

THE MANOR HOUSE & ASHBURY GOLF HOTELS

Set in the foothills of the Dartmoor National Park, The Manor House and Ashbury Golf Hotels in Okehampton form one of the largest golf resorts in the UK, and are the ideal place for great value golf breaks at any time of year

I

f you’re looking for living proof that not all good things come in small packages, then you need only to pay a visit to the Manor House & Ashbury Golf Hotel in Devon, which lays claim to being Europe’s biggest golf resort.

With it spanning two spacious sites, which combine to cover over 800 acres of breathtaking Dartmoor countryside, you would be wise to consider hiring out one of the resort’s golf buggies just to get around the place.

Starting out life in 1978 as a humble bed & breakfast offering just 10 bedrooms, the Manor House Hotel has expanded and diversified from a conference and meetings hotel to the impressive multi-activity resort that it is today. The Ashbury Golf Hotel was purchased in 1991 to create a dualsite resort that currently offers 426 rooms and no fewer than seven 18-hole courses.

The golf courses are all located at the Ashbury site, with layouts including the 6,528-yard Kigbeare; 6,400-yard Pines; 5,803-yard Beeches; 5,502-yard Oakwood; 2,743-yard Ashbury, and the 18hole par-three Willows Course.

There are 99 holes in total, with

■ THE STUNNING 15TH HOLE ON ASHBURY'S KIGBEARE COURSE

differing combinations of nines creating even greater variety of playing options.

The courses all offer stunning views of Dartmoor and across the rolling Devon countryside, and utilise the natural features of the landscape, making the most of mature trees, hedgerows and ponds to provide truly breathtaking holiday golf. The Kigbeare Course, which is the longest of the layouts on offer, has matured into a quite stunning test, offering a delightful blend of challenging par 3s, with some over 200 yards. Many of the testing par 4s and 5s have rolling fairways, large undulating greens and well placed hazards providing a true test for even the most proficient of golfers.

Among the signature holes is the par-three third, a 205-yard hole which drops 50 feet from tee to green, with a brook protecting the front edge of the putting surface. The par-five 16th is also another showstopper, with the 550-yard hole swooping downhill like a rollercoaster

from tee to green.

The Pines Course, the second longest track, has also matured into a very attractive and challenging test, following its opening in 1999. The front nine, with its wide fairways and gentle slopes, offers the opportunity for early red numbers, while the back nine, with its tall mature tree lined fairways, is a much tougher prospect that requires respect and accuracy to maintain a strong score. The signature hole

is arguably the short par-four 4th, requiring an uphill tee shot to a narrow fairway, protected by three ponds on the right. The safer option is to take an iron or a hybrid off the tee, leaving a short iron to this long, narrow, threetiered green.

Built-on fast-draining soil, and with excellent drainage systems, all the courses are presented in superb condition all year round. There are no temporary greens, even after the heaviest

■ THE 16TH ON THE KIGBEARE COURSE IS A DRAMATIC 546-YARD DOWNHILL PAR FIVE

downpours, while purpose-built cart paths enables the fleet of 450 buggies – including 100 enclosed buggies – to be hired throughout the year.

Given the heavy traffic the courses experience during peak months, there are large artificial teeing areas on some holes, but grass tees are in play for most of the time. On-going investment in course machinery, and maintenance by a team of 30 experienced greenkeepers, ensures improved playing conditions year on year.

All golf breaks include a minimum of 27 free holes of golf per night of stay, so there are no extra costs involved outside the package price. Every resident also enjoys free, unlimited use of the extensive sports and leisure facilities (see below), plus full board catering. One-night breaks start from just £54.95pp, including 27 holes of golf, while society packages for groups of 12 or more start from £29.50pp. Peak season buggy hire costs £16 for 18 holes or £22 for all day, and they are available for just £8 for 18 holes for eight months of the year.

There is a wide variety of

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■ THE FREE-DRAINING COURSES ARE ALWAYS PRESENTED IN SUPERB CONDITION

ALL GOLF BREAKS INCLUDE A MINIMUM OF 27 FREE HOLES OF GOLF PER NIGHT, SO THERE ARE NO EXTRA COSTS INVOLVED OUTSIDE THE PACKAGE PRICE. EVERY RESIDENT ALSO ENJOYS FREE, UNLIMITED USE OF THE EXTENSIVE SPORTS AND LEISURE FACILITIES, PLUS FULL-BOARD CATERING

■ THE BEAUTIFUL 15TH HOLE ON THE OAKWOOD COURSE IS A 256-YARD PAR FOUR

practice facilities, including an eight-bay covered driving range, where a bucket of 50 balls costs just £1; a 150-yard par-3 practice hole; six practice nets, four practice greens; a chipping green, and an indoor golf simulator, where free swing analysis sessions are offered, along with a choice of world famous courses to play.

There is a total of 426 rooms available for guests to stay in across the two sites (Ashbury 222, Manor 204), all of which feature TVs, tea

and coffee-making facilities, hair dryers, free Wi-Fi and telephones.

Full board catering is offered, ensuring three square meals a day, including a buffet breakfast with cooked and continental options; hot and cold lunch options; and a four-course evening buffet meal with additional a la carte choices.

Guests receive a complimentary bottle of wine with dinner on Sundays and Thursdays.

Elsewhere, there is a choice of bars and lounge areas, including

the Coach House Bar, which offers Sky TV for watching live sporting events, while evening entertainment is also offered every night, with tribute bands and cabaret acts. Children’s entertainers are also part of an extensive programme designed to keep all members of the family amused.

Other facilities available to all residents free of charge include three swimming pools with water slides; 10 lanes of ten-pin bowling; 28 snooker tables; 11 tennis courts;

12 badminton courts; and five target ranges featuring archery, air pistols, air rifles and laser shooting.

Free spa facilities include saunas, steam rooms and hydro pools, while there is a choice of over 20 health and beauty treatments, including hot stone massages, facials and manicures.

There are also two extensive craft centres offering 17 tutored crafts, including pottery, glass engraving, jewellery making, ceramic painting, fabric printing, candle making, and woodwork.

Guests only pay for materials and there are experienced tutors on hand to offer advice and guidance.

For younger guests there is three-level soft adventure zone, two games rooms (featuring pool, table football, air hockey and games consoles), an artificial ice-skating rink, and pedal carts.

Outdoors, there is an impressive 18-hole adventure golf course, the holes of which have been modelled on those found on the real golf courses at the resort, and a 9-hole mini golf course.

All told, the Manor and Ashbury Hotels combine to offer the ultimate multi-generational, multifunctional leisure destination, where value for money and great service come in hand-in-hand.

For the latest golf break packages, bookings and enquiries, call 0800 389 9892, email enquiries@ manorhousehotel.co.uk or visit www.ashburygolfhotel.com

VISITORS’ COMMENTS ON TRIPADVISOR “WELL DONE THE ASHBURY! GREAT VALUE, GREAT FACILITIES, AND GREAT STAFF. THE GOLF COURSES WERE GREAT AND THERE IS SO MUCH FOR FAMILIES TO DO. WE WILL DEFINITELY BE BACK NEXT YEAR, ONLY THIS TIME FOR LONGER.” VINCE T, CHELMSFORD “GOLFERS, FOR GOODNESS SAKE, IF YOU HAVEN'T TRIED THIS PLACE THEN YOU ARE REALLY MISSING OUT. THE COURSES WERE PLAYING MAGNIFICENTLY, ALL OF THEM, AND IT IS A GREAT PLACE TO GO FOR A FEW DAYS PLAYING GOLF WITH MATES.” ANDY W, CORBY “THE GOLF IS EXCEPTIONAL AND TRULY OF A 5-STAR STANDARD. IF YOU ARE KEEN GOLFERS GO THERE – YOU WILL NOT DISAPPOINTED.” JOHN S, CANTERBURY “ALL IN ALL, THIS IS STILL THE BEST VALUE GOLF BREAK DESTINATION IN THE UK. THE GOLF COURSES ARE IN FANTASTIC CONDITION, THE FAIRWAYS ARE GREAT, AND THE GREENS ARE EVEN BETTER.” LEE H, HARTSBOURNE

[62] SEPTEMBER 2017 | TRAVEL

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

SWEET ON SWEDEN Offering a stunning array of coastal links and championship woodland layouts – and blessed with long summer days and the coolest culture in Europe – it’s high time Sweden became a must-visit golfing destination

HAVING COVERED THE NORDEA MASTERS FOR the past couple of years, it got me thinking why Sweden isn't a more popular choice for a golfing break. A country which has produced golfing superstars such as Annika Sorenstam, Henrik Stenson, and the enigmatic, volcano dust-eating Jesper Parnevik, features some of Europe's best courses – yet many of us still look no further than Spain and Portugal for our annual golfing pilgrimage.

A lot has to do with awareness, as many simply don't realise the quality of the layouts. Well let me tell you, they are pretty good.

It does seem Sweden's popularity is gathering momentum. The International Association of Golf Tour Operators has recently named the Nordic country as the Undiscovered Golf Destination of the Year, but the fact it's still termed 'undiscovered' highlights my point.

There are around 500,000 golfers in Sweden – out of a population of just nine million – and it has more golf clubs per capita than nearly anywhere else in the world. While many of the best golf clubs in the States are exclusive and only for the use of their members and guests, it's much more liberal in Sweden, even at the ones labelled officially 'private'.

Many of you will be familiar with some of the courses, having seen them on TV. In 2003 and 2007, Sweden hosted the Solheim Cup at Barseback and Halmstad respectively, while Barseback and Bro Hoff Slot are regular venues for the Nordea Masters on the European Tour, the most recent of which was won

by Italy’s Renato Paratore back in June. The Ladies European Tour held the Helsingborg Open at Vasatorp Golf Club, but sadly has been off the schedule since Nicole Broch Larsen won it in 2015.

Much of the best golf is in the Skane region, the southern part of the country, where there are more than 70 courses. It's a golfing Mecca currently lacking British disciples, but some might say that's not a bad thing!

PGA National of Sweden is one of the newest golf clubs in the country. Built in 2010, it is located in Bara, just outside Malmo, and offers two 18-hole championship courses and a nine-hole short course, all designed by acclaimed architect Kyle Phillips, whose previous blueprints include The Grove, Kingsbarns, and the phenomenal Yas Links in Abu Dhabi. There's also accommodation on site and a great restaurant to sample.

A one-hour drive from downtown Copenhagen – if

■ BRO HOF SLOT IS A REGULAR HOST VENUE OF THE EUROPEAN TOUR'S NORDEA MASTERS

you happen to be staying in Denmark – Barseback offers 45 holes, including the Masters Course, the Donald Steel Course and the Litorina Course, in addition to a nine-hole short course. The Masters Course is an intriguing mixture of woodland, parkland and seaside links, with the holes through the pine forests being tough to negotiate, before it opens out to a dramatic back nine that hugs the shoreline of the North Sea. A benefit to being located on the coast of southern Sweden is that all three courses are open from March to November, while one of the courses is kept open all year round – only closing in the event of snow or frost, which can be a factor.

One of the most prestigious, oldest clubs in Sweden is the Falsterbo Golfklubb. Located on the southern tip of Sweden, Falsterbo,, which is bordered on three sides by the sea, was founded in 1909 and has been ranked as one of the top 50 golf courses in Continental Europe. Its traditional well-bunkered links course features sculpted dunes, as well as a historic lighthouse, and is reminiscent of some of the great links courses found in the British Isles.

Do you still need convincing? The Nordic summer

■ THE STUNNING LINKS AT FALSTERBO

■ BARSEBACK HOSTED THE SOLHEIM CUP IN 2003

is a delight to witness: clear blue skies and a low sun ensure perfect golfing temperatures, and it's light until late, meaning it's easy to squeeze in 36 holes or more in a day, if you're feeling sprightly!

What about après-golf? Well. Malmo has plenty to offer for an evening's entertainment, with the Lilla Torg square is a main hub for bars and restaurants.

Even on the coldest nights, there are enough outdoor heaters and beer taps to keep you positively warm. There is a good selection of restaurants with a continental feel to your dining options. I stayed at the Renaissance Hotel in Malmo, just a short stroll to one of the city's best restaurants, 'Bastard' (yes, really!).

For those staying in the south of Sweden, Copenhagen in neighbouring Denamrk is only a quick hop across the Oresund Bridge, and well worth a visit. It's got a fantastic café culture and some of the best restaurants in the world, aside from Noma, which toppled The Fat Duck several years ago.

So to conclude, Sweden is without doubt on the up, and comes highly recommended as an alternative escape in Europe, especially if golf and gastronomy is your thing. The quality of the courses is superb, but make sure you visit in the summer to make the most of the sun that never sets.

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TRAVEL | SEPTEMBER 2017 [63]

BOOK EARLY WITH YGT TO BAG TAYLORMADE GEAR

LA RESERVA LAUNCHES ‘SOTOGRANDE CLASSIC’ PACKAGE

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a Reserva Club, set in the heart of Sotogrande, Andalucia, has announced an exclusive ‘Sotogrande Classic’ winter stayand-play package with neighbours Valderrama and Real Club Sotogrande.

For the first time ever, visitors will be able to play three of the best golf courses in Europe while staying at Sotogrande’s superb and conveniently located 4-star Hotel Almenara for a discounted package fee.

All three courses are ranked among the leading courses in the world, and are set within five miles of one another in Sotogrande, in the municipality of San Roque. The area attracts golfers from across the globe, who come for the world-renowned golf, as well as the spectacular weather and leisure facilities. Opened in 2003, and recently voted among Spain’s top three clubs, La Reserva is an 18-hole, 7,400 yard championship layout that has quickly become a firm favourite of golfers, having hosted the European Tour’s NH Collection Open in 2014.

Valderrama, which first opened in 1974 and was designed by Robert Trent Jones, famously hosted the Ryder Cup in 1997, and continues to stage high-profile events, including 16 renewals of the

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our Golf Travel has renewed its partnership with TaylorMade Golf for its popular ‘Early Eagle’ promotion, which rewards golfers who book their holidays in advance with free golf equipment.

Golfers who book their 2018 golf trips during September and October, will be eligible to claim a range of free TaylorMade equipment, including golf balls, irons, hybrids, fairway woods and the company’s brand new M2 driver.

Golfers booking with Your Golf Travel are also being given the chance to save money on their 2018 golf holidays, with discounts based on the chosen destination (domestic, short

Volvo Masters, two Andalucia Masters, two WGC events, and last year’s Spanish Open.

Real Club Sotogrande is another Trent Jones masterpiece, although a much earlier one, having opened in 1964. A regular host of European Tour qualifying, the 6,224-metre layout is renowned for its raised greens and manicured fairways. The course underwent a major redesign last year, with the size of the greens increased by 40% and a sub air system installed to enjoy consistency of growth throughout the year. Fairways and tees were also rebuilt, with new drainage systems added, along with 37 hactares of Bermuda grass.

The Sotogrande Classic package launches in September with prices starting at €929 based on three nights at Hotel Almenara in a superior double room with breakfast, and three green fees; one at each of the courses. There are also packages available for five nights comprising three rounds.

Bookings are currently being taken up to December. This package is only available to book through La Reserva Club.

For further information and reservations, e-mail lareserva. booking@sotogrande.com or call 00 34 956 785 252.

CLUBSTOHIRE ENJOYS UPSURGE FOLLOWING FARO EXPANSION

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nternational golf club rental business ClubtoHire has enjoyed a busy year at its European outlets, as more and more golfers flock to the warmer climes for a spot of holiday golf.

Of its 20 stories around the round, few have been busier than its flagship outlet at Faro in Portugal’s Algarve, which has seen an unprecedented upsurge in rentals following following the opening of a new terminal at the city’s airport in June.

This year, over eight million International travellers will pass through the expanded airport and over 10% of them are travelling for golf.

ClubstoHire geared up to meet this increased by investing heavily in a new shop, which also opened this summer in advance of the busy autumn season.

“We are delighted with the new shop at Faro Airport, as the airport has seen record numbers since the opening of the

new terminal in June, said ClubstoHire chief executive Tony Judge. “When we opened at Faro in 2010 the airport was servicing 3.5 million passengers a year, while this year’s figure will easily be double that.

“The new store is part of a major investment by us as we recently opened new retail outlets at Alicante and Palma airports, and we have ambitious plans for all our shops, as we want to make golf travel as simple and hassle free as possible.

We are very aware of the inconvenience and costs of golf travel and we made a conscious decision to keep our pricing and product competitive for our many clients. The UK golfer has had a tough time of late with the devaluation of the UK currency but we have held our pricing steady and no increases were passed on.

The company handles up to 80,000 requests for rental clubs at it 20 locations around the world, with those located in the United States, South Africa and five countries across the Mediterranean being among the busiest, and all offering the latest clubs on the market from between £32 and £55 per week.

Golfers can go online to pre-select sets of the latest clubs on the market and pick their putter of choice on arrival, which are then either collected from shops in airport terminal buildings, or delivered direct to hotels or golf courses for even greater convenience.

haul or long haul), as well as the number of travellers in the group also on offer. The upper qualifying thresholds could see the lead booker bag an entire set of TaylorMade clubs or a cash discount of up to £1,000.

Your Golf Travel’s co-founder, Ross Marshall, said: The culture of Your Golf Travel has always been built on us delivering affordable and accessible products for people that play golf. It’s pretty simple. And this is just an extension of that ethos - if our customers can commit to their 2018 plans nice and early, we’re delighted to be able to send them a nice reward in return; in this case, the latest clubs from our friends at TaylorMade.”

Your Golf Travel services over 3,000 destinations in over 25 countries worldwide, selling a range of golf travel products, from weekend breaks and tours of the UK and Continental Europe, to long haul holidays and attendance packages for high profile professional tournaments such as the US Masters at Augusta.

For more information about this offer, call 0800 043 6644 or visit www.yourgolftravel.com/early-eagle-2018.

SET SAIL FOR A BARGAIN BREAK WITH BRITTANY FERRIES

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he Brittany Ferries golf brochure is packed with great value breaks to golf courses and resorts all over Northern and Western France and Northern Spain.

Featuring packages to France and Spain’s most popular destinations, the brochure has all the details you need to plan a golfing holiday to remember.

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 cruise-ferries, offering en-suite cabins, fine French restaurants and stylish bars, they provide a uniquely relaxing way of travelling.

Getting to the continent couldn’t be easier, with five routes from Portsmouth, Poole and Plymouth to western France, as well as two to northern Spain, including services to Bilbao and Santander.

Sample packages include the Dinan to Dinard, 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, Val André and St Cast), from only £308 per person. Sailings are form Portsmouth to St Malo, with return trips from Caen or Cherbourg to Portsmouth or Poole.

For more information, visit www.brittanyferries.com/golf, call 0330 159 5418 or email golfdesk@brittanyferries.com.

[64] SEPTEMBER 2017 | TRAVEL

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NOW IS THE TIME TO BOOK BOOK YOUR 2018 GOLF HOLIDAY WITH YOUR GOLF TRAVEL AND EARN TAYLORMADE GOLF EQUIPMENT OR GREAT CASH DISCOUNTS

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our Golf Travel, the world’s largest golf travel company launches its annual Early Eagle promotion, rewarding forward thinking golfers who book a golf holiday during September or October 2017, for travel throughout 2018, with FREE TaylorMade golf equipment, including golf balls, irons, hybrids, fairway woods and even the M2 driver, as used by Rory McIlroy, Justin

THE BELFRY

THE K CLUB & SPA RESORT

WEST MIDLANDS, ENGLAND

DUBLIN, IRELAND

1 Night, Bed & Breakfast + 2 Rounds

1 Night, Bed & Breakfast + 2 Rounds

from: £79pp

from: £185pp

1 in 16 free and a free drink per golfer (wine, beer or soft drink)

Complimentary room upgrade when booking hotel packages

TRUMP TURNBERRY

CELTIC MANOR RESORT

AYRSHIRE, SCOTLAND

SOUTH WALES

1 Night, Bed & Breakfast + 2 Rounds

1 Night, Bed & Breakfast, Dinner + 1 Round

from: £169pp 1 in 8 Free

from: £94pp

£100 food voucher for groups of 12 staying in Manor accommodation.

Playing the Twenty Ten course

Based in central London, Your Golf Travel services over 3,000 destinations in over 25 countries worldwide, selling a range of golf travel products, from weekend breaks and tours of the UK and Continental Europe, to long haul holidays and attendance packages for high profile professional tournaments such as the US Masters at Augusta.

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TRAVEL | SEPTEMBER 2017 [65]

YOUR 2018 GOLF HOLIDAY Rose and 2017 Masters Champion Sergio Garcia.

Golfers booking with Your Golf Travel throughout September or October 2017 are also being given the chance to save bundles of cash on their 2018 golf holidays, with discounts subject to

your choice of destination (domestic, short haul or long haul) and group size.

The upper qualifying thresholds could see the lead booker bag an entire set of TaylorMade clubs including irons, hybrid, fairway wood and driver, or a cash discount of up to £1000.

Here is a selection of Your Golf Travel’s Early Eagle offers. Make sure you visit yourgolftravel.com/early-eagle-2018 to see more fantastic golf holiday packages for 2018

QUINTA DO LAGO

KAYA PALAZZO GOLF RESORT

ALGARVE, PORTUGAL

BELEK, TURKEY

3 Nights, Bed & Breakfast + 2 Rounds

7 Nights, All Inclusive + 3 Rounds

from: £269pp

from: £439pp

Free drink after each round

All day ticket on Kaya Palazzo golf course, Free Sea view suite upgrade

LA MANGA LAS LOMAS

WESTIN ABU DHABI RESORT

MURCIA, SPAIN

ABU DHABI, UAE

3 Nights Bed & Breakfast + 3 Rounds

4 Nights, Bed and Breakfast + 3 Rounds (flights included)

from: £195pp

from: £795pp

15€ La Manga Credit per room per night

Group Discounts for Golf

To speak to a Your Golf Travel expert call 0800 043 6644 For more Early Eagle Offers visit www.yourgolftravel.com/early-eagle-2018

[66] SEPTEMBER 2017 | TRAVEL

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ KIAWAH ISLAND OCEAN COURSE

CHARMED BY

CHARLESTON If you’re looking for a Stateside holiday with authentic Southern hospitality, a dose of American history, and a collection of some of the world’s finest golf courses on your doorstep, then the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina, ticks all the right boxes

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here is good reason that cars carrying South Carolina licence plates are emblazoned with the slogan, ‘First in Golf’. The first golf club, golf course, and golf clubs imported into the United States all originated in its oldest city, Charleston, and it’s hard to drive a few miles in any direction without seeing a sign post for a country club or a golf resort of some description.

Today, the Charleston area boasts more than 24 courses, including many designed by some of the game’s most notable architects, such as Pete Dye, Tom Fazio, and Jack Nicklaus.

Visitors to the city are spoilt for choice for golfing experiences in a region that is generically called the ‘Lowcountry’, which takes in the coastal counties of Charleston, Berkley and Dorchester. Thousands of travelling golfers make the pilgrimage to the region’s showcase resort, Kiawah Island, where the Ocean Course and no fewer than five other world-class tracks could occupy the first week of any golfing vacation, but there are plenty of other top quality tracks on which to lose golf balls – sorry, test your skills.

The two stunning layouts at Seabrook Island – the Ocean Winds and Crooked Oaks – should definitely be on your golfing checklist, while there are two more stunners to be played at Wild Dunes, where the Faziodesigned Links and Harbor courses continue to earn rave reviews.

Elsewhere, and at more affordable rates, there are tee times to be booked at Dunes West, Patriots Point Links, RiverTowne Country Club, Shadowmoss Plantation, Wescott Plantation, and for those with a taste for American history, The Links at Stono

Ferry, which is sprinkled with relics from the Revolutionary War, many of whose battles were fought around this region.

Between rounds, the area has much to offer visitors, including Charleston itself, which has been voted the best small city in North America for the past six years. Boasting a rich history and a vibrant contemporary culture, Charleston is awash with great restaurants, lively bars, and has a buzzing nightlife. It’s a place to savour smoky, slowcooked barbeque, sample a legendary oyster Po’ Boy sandwich, or sip on Bourbon-laced cocktails or locally-brewed craft ales at the numerous rooftop bars.

Shoppers can hunt out local treasures at the famous Charleston Market, soak up the city’s history on a carriage ride through the residential neighbourhoods, or perhaps learn the dance which got its name from the city where it all began.

Music is central to Charleston culture, and there are no shortage of jazz clubs and bars in which to listen to live bands and

■ SEABROOK ISLAND BOASTS TWO STUNNING COURSES – OCEAN WINDS AND CROOKED OAKS

impromptu gigs, while architecture fans can marvel at the unique design of the multicoloured stucco houses that line the city’s streets and avenues. Bike-friendly, and easy to walk, you’ll only need a car when heading out of town for golf. And what golf awaits.

OCEAN COURSE, KIAWAH ISLAND (KIAWAHRESORT.COM, GREEN FEES: $281-$387) ■ DOWNTOWN CHARLESTON HAS A TIMELESS CHARM

Since its hosting of the 1991 Ryder Cup, the Ocean Course has been a staple on every golfer's bucket list, blowing away visitors with its lethal blend of tidal marshland carries, scrub-covered coastal dunes and wildly undulating greens.

While toned down from that nearly unplayable version, it is still a beast, with a closing stretch of holes that remains as beautiful and brutal as you could want.

After proving a worthy test for the 2012 PGA Championship, where Rory McIlroy came out on top, the tournament returns here again in 2021. Walking this superior test, with a caddie, will take you through Rory-like highs and Langer-like lows, but it will all be unforgettable.

Today, the 7,356-yard layout plays much fairer, if still relentlessly tough, yet it reels you in with its tranquil Low Country environment, and a finishing stretch of holes along the Atlantic that offers a second-to-none mix of beauty and brawn.

Once inside the safety of the sumptuous clubhouse, the Ryder Cup Bar is not to be missed, filled as it is with a treasure trove of memorabilia, making it one of golf's greatest 19th holes.

While offering rental villas and homes, the centrepiece for many visitors is the Sanctuary,

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TRAVEL | SEPTEMBER 2017

[67]

■ WILD DUNES

interesting par-3 ninth and a slightly quirky, but undeniably beautiful par-4 closing hole, which skirts Haulover Creek, will linger long in memory.

CHARLESTON NATIONAL (CHARLESTONNATIONALGOLF.COM, $62-$81)

a 255-room luxury hotel that opened in 2004.

With an ocean-front location, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and superb dining at both the Ocean Room and Jasmine Porch, this is simply one of the best accommodation options at a golf resort anywhere.

WILD DUNES, LINKS COURSE (WILDDUNES.COM, $145-$155)

The hole and course that put Charleston on the golf map was the 18th at Wild Dunes Resort, on the Isle of Palms north of the city.

The year was 1980, and Tom Fazio's first major solo design set tongues wagging, thanks to a rolling landscape punctuated with marshes, ancient oaks and scrub-covered dunes that Fazio called ‘an architect's dream’.

Its par-5 18th hole, with the Atlantic hard by the left edge, quickly became one of the most-photographed in golf. After coastal erosion took its toll, the hole was reduced to a par three in 2007, but it was restored to a par five the following year after a comprehensive beach restoration project.

Also on the same estate, the Harbor Course, another Fazio design, measures up pretty well to its bolder sibling, with nearly every hole encountering lakes, salt marshes or the Intracoastal Waterway.

test. Holes zigzag through lush vegetation and meander along marshes and out to the ocean. The most memorable holes are in the stretch from 14 to 16, which are closer to the Atlantic than any on the Ocean Course.

OSPREY POINT (KIAWAHRESORT.COM, $130-$221)

This Fazio creation makes a compelling case for a No.2 ranking at Kiawah Island Resort. Opened in 1988, it starts with its own clubhouse, then tosses into the mix four large natural lakes, inlets of saltwater marsh, and maritime forests of old live oaks, pines, palmettos and magnolias. Short, strategic par 4s, water on 15 holes, and a network of wooden bridges that link one hole to the next, mark out Osprey Point as another ‘must play’.

COUGAR POINT (KIAWAHRESORT.COM, $130-$221)

Arguably Charleston's most underrated track, Cougar Point is a reworking of an original Gary Player design. Stretching to 6,875 yards, it boasts a handful of holes routed along the Kiawah River, with graceful shaping, along with beautiful woods and marsh backdrops, making for a very entertaining round.

TURTLE POINT (KIAWAHRESORT.COM, $130-$221)

OAK POINT GOLF CLUB (KIAWAHRESORT.COM, $85-$147)

At most resorts this layout would take centre stage, but on Kiawah Island it's just a terrific test that's understandably overshadowed.

Designed by Jack Nicklaus in 1981, and refurbished a couple of years ago, Turtle Point is a treat, with tight fairways and shallow greens – often set on the diagonal and usually fronted by trouble – making it a solid

Kiawah Island’s least-acclaimed track is located just off the island, outside the resort’s entrance gates. A 1991 Clyde Johnston design, the course was substantially reworked after the resort acquired it in 1997. Hazards on nearly every hole might prove too much for some players, but alligator sightings, an

Plantation. Ancient oaks, tidal marshlands and Bermuda-topped dunes are all part of the challenge and beauty that serve as powerful enticements. The unusual closing hole is a 456-yard par 4 that skirts the marsh.

PATRIOTS POINT LINKS (PATRIOTSPOINTLINKS.COM, $50-$85)

This was intended to be an exclusive private club, but right before its opening 20 years ago, Hurricane Hugo altered that plan. Plenty of forced carries over marsh characterise this Rees Jones design in Mt. Pleasant, just north of Charleston, but handsome Low Country vistas of Hamlin Sound, Bulls Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway will make the sting of losing a few balls somewhat more palatable.

Located on the banks of Charleston Harbour, Patriots Point offers stunning views of downtown Charleston, Fort Sumter and the neighbouring sea islands. The closing four holes, especially the 150-yard, island-green 17th, form an especially stirring and often wind-blown stretch.

DUNES WEST (DUNESWESTGOLFCLUB.COM, $52-$96)

This Ron Garl design is sprinkled with relics from the Revolutionary War. An appealing front nine twists through the forests, but things heat up on the back nine, owing to a handful of scenic holes along the Intracoastal Waterway. The all-carry, 159-yard par-3 14th and the 343-yard, par-4 18th, with an island green, are standouts.

Long a favorite of local residents Hootie and the Blowfish, Dunes West hits plenty of high notes in its 6,859-yard journey. Arthur Hills carved out this course in 1991 from land that was once part of the historic Lexington

THE LINKS AT STONO FERRY (STONOFERRYGOLF.COM, $55-$88)

PLACES TO VISIT IN CHARLESTON CHARLESTON CITY MARKET: Despite a recent renovation, the city’s 220-year-old market, which is built in a Greek-revival style, remains an iconic building in Charleston history. Home to the Confederate Museum, the main section of the 400-metre structure is occupied by an eclectic mix of stallholders selling anything from hats and handbags to jewellery and arts and crafts.

HISTORIC DISTRICT: These streets are lined with row houses, and you’re likely to spot more horse-drawn carriages and cruiser bikes than cars.

FOLLY BEACH: The 12-mile island south of downtown is known for its surf-worthy waves, seafood outlets, and live-music bars.

MOUNT PLEASANT: While this area is mostly residential, the Old Village is worth exploring for classic Americana – US flags, white picket fences and stylish shops.

There is a wide range of restaurants in the area, including those on the waterfront at Shem Creek.

WATERFRONT PARK: Elegantly landscaped with fountains and boardwalks, the park leads down to White Point Garden, by the Battery on the tip of the peninsula, where the flower-filled lawns offer fine views across the water.

DRINK: Market Pavilion Hotel, near City Market, offers a panoramic view of the harbour, providing an ideal place to enjoy mojitos, martinis and margaritas while the sun goes down. Closed For Business is a popular ale house on King St which boasts a rotating menu of 42 beers on tap – ideal for washing down huge plates of Cajun shrimp or jambalaya.

EAT: Halls Chophouse is a Charleston staple where two Sunday rituals come together: brunch and Gullah spiritual. Near the piano at the front door, a singer belts out gospel classics, while upstairs, diners dig into crab cakes, eggs Benedict, or shrimp and grits. Leon’s Oyster Shop on the corner of King St is another must-visit eatery, with fresh oysters and fried chicken going down nicely with chilled rosé on tap.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON GOLF HOLIDAYS TO CHARLESTON, VISIT WWW.CHARLESTONGOLFGUIDE.COM OR CALL 800 774 4444

â– RIBAGOLFE

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

TRAVEL | SEPTEMBER 2017 [69]

■ UDINE GOLF CLUB

UNCOVERING FRUILI’S FAIRWAYS Clive Agran travels to the north-east region of Italy – Friuli-Venezia Giulia – where stunning mountainous backdrops frame picturesque parkland courses, and unspoilt villages, cultured cities, and a beautiful coastline are among its many attractions

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oading a set of golf clubs onto the ‘oversize’ belt at Gatwick for my flight to Italy felt a little peculiar, principally because my destination was Venice.

More appropriate, surely, than clubs and balls would have been an easel and paints. Italy is rightly famous for its glorious culture, opera, cathedrals, art and architecture. On the sporting front, Italians are passionate about football, love cycling and enjoy tennis, but golf?

A modest trickle of top Italians have made an impact at the highest level. The most successful, Costantino Rocca, is also perhaps the best known and loved. More recently Francesco and Edoardo Molinari have enjoyed success on the European Tour, while Matteo Manassero and, more latterly, Renato Paratore, are both precocious talents surely destined for further success. But there isn’t the depth of talent there is in Sweden, France or, dare I say it, merry old England.

Part of the problem is the popular perception in Italy of golf being an elitist sport. That, however, is about to change, and the catalyst prompting the shift is the unexpected coup the Italian Golf Federation pulled off in overcoming stiff competition from Germany, Spain and Austria to secure the Ryder Cup in 2022. Their bid included a firm commitment to ‘grow the game’ domestically.

In 2022 the Ryder Cup will be staged at the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club, which is 10 miles from the centre of Rome. Although I’ve not golfed there, I have twice been to the ‘Eternal City’ and was therefore grateful for the opportunity to discover a different part of the country.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia is the most north-easterly region in Italy. Despite the name, Venice is not part of it, but it is next door, and Venice airport is an alternative to Trieste and Treviso. Another city of note is Udine, possibly best known as the home of Udinese Calcio football club. Fairly central, it’s a convenient base from which to explore the region.

If the anticipated Italian golf explosion takes place, it’s just conceivable that Golf Club Udine will become one of the area’s major attractions. While I was there, it was hosting the Senior Italian Open with a field that included such notable names as Ronan Rafferty, Barry Lane and Costantino Rocco himself. Welshman Stephen Dodd recorded his maiden Senior Tour win with a three-round score of nine under, just edging out compatriot and

■ TOP: CASTELLO DI SPESSA GOLF CLUB BOTTOM: GRADO GOLF CLUB

former Ryder Cup hero Phillip Price by a single shot.

The competitors heaped praise on this delightful parkland course that lies on the edge of the beautiful village of Fagagna, only about eight miles from Udine. Established in 1972 and built on moraine brought down from the surrounding mountains by mighty glaciers, it benefits from plenty of elevation that has allowed its two architects – Marco Croze and former European Tour player John Harrison – to create an interesting and attractive course. A few of the holes are rather quirky and don’t be surprised to find a tree in the centre of the fairway.

A fast stream tumbling down from the surrounding snow-capped mountain features on a few holes, but the magnificent old oaks and beeches pose the principal threat as well as adding glorious colour in the autumn.

The course is certain to get even better, as Gabriele Lualdi, who bought the club in 2013, is investing significant sums to improve it. It already possesses impressive environmental credentials, underlined by a solar-panelled roof on the trolley shed, which re-charges the buggies.

What looked to this casual observer to be a spectacular, two-tiered, driving range turned out to be a stunning adjoining hotel. In fact the 33-bedroomed Villaverde Hotel and Resort is far more than a luxurious hotel. With its state-of-theart Spa and Wellness Centre, it offers everything

an enthusiastic golfer could possibly want, including advanced medical facilities.

One of the great pleasures of golfing abroad is that the experience is often markedly different from golf at home. Of course, the rules and equipment are the same, and 18 holes is standard, but it’s a real bonus to be aware you’re in a different country. And never for a moment while knocking it around Castello di Spessa golf club, could you forget where you were. With the impressive Spessa Castle overlooking proceedings and the course weaving through the famous Collio vineyards, it is quintessentially Italian.

It’s possible that Italians play golf for slightly different reasons and building an appetite and developing a thirst to better appreciate the glorious food and marvellous wines after the round may feature more prominently with them than it does with us. After a truly memorable meal in the adjoining ‘Tavernetto’ I was treated to a fascinating tour around the castle winery, and an inevitable – and hugely enjoyable – wine tasting.

Another tour, this time around the nearby town of Gorizia, was a sobering experience. Italy fought on our side in the First World War, and Gorizia was on the front line and suffered as a consequence.

Despite a battering, much remains including an impressive castle with splendid views of the surrounding countryside.

The southern end of Friuli-Venezia Giulia borders onto the Adriatic Sea, and the stretch of coastline from Trieste in the south-east corner to near Venice on the western end is extremely popular with tourists. Like Gorizia, Trieste is fascinating, and

much of its history features serious conflict. It, too, has been squeezed between rival forces and has changed hands several times.

Half-an-hour west of Trieste, Golf Club Grado lies alongside a large lagoon and is consequently liberally sprinkled with sparkling water hazards.

These attract a spectacular variety of waterfowl, including herons, swans, ducks, geese and flamingos, which add considerably to the overall appeal of an extremely attractive and atmospheric course. Take plenty of old balls and you will certainly enjoy this delightful and distinctive course.

Possibly the toughest challenge was saved until last. Like Grado, Golf Club Lignano is no more than a well-struck drive from the Adriatic and is close to the popular resort from which it gets its name. Maintained in superb condition with the well-trimmed fairways attractively shaped so that there are no unnaturally straight-lined edges, it somehow manages to draw the very best out of those fortunate enough to play it. Two large waste bunkers add variety to the problems it poses and enhance its already considerable visual appeal.

Somewhat unexpectedly, there’s a modern spa and exceptionally comfortable hotel at the rear of the clubhouse.

Judging by the numbers of women playing the courses and children learning the game on the putting greens and driving ranges, Italy has already embarked on a programme to broaden the game’s appeal well in advance of 2022. Attracting Brits to this lovely corner of the country is another goal that deserves to succeed.

FRIULI-VENEZIA GIULIA FACT FILE WHERE TO PLAY: VILLAVERDE HOTEL & RESORT WELLNESS SPA & GOLF, UDINE (VILLAVERDERESORT.COM)

WHERE TO PLAY: RYANAIR OFFERS DAILY DIRECT FLIGHTS TO TRIESTE FROM LONDON STANSTED AND A MORE LIMITED SCHEDULE FROM BRISTOL, LEEDS AND EAST MIDLANDS AIRPORTS. MORE REGULAR FLIGHTS ARE OFFERED TO VENICE, WHICH IS AN HOUR’S DRIVE FROM THE REGION. TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BOOKING A GOLF HOLIDAY TO ITALY, AND TO DISCOVER MORE ABOUT THE REGIONS, VISIT WWW.ITALYGOLFANDMORE.COM.

[70] SEPTEMBER 2017 | COMPETITION

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

WIN A FIVE-STAR GOLF HOLIDAY TO SPAIN COURTESY OF CLUBSTOHIRE! Golf News has teamed up with golf club rental company ClubstoHire to offer one lucky reader a golf break for two to sunny Southern Spain

The prize comprises a two-night B&B stay for two people at the five-star Barceló Montecastillo Golf & Sports Resort in Jerez, with two rounds of golf, one night’s buffet dinner, free golf club rental from ClubstoHire’s extensive range, and a With right and left-hand options, and a choice of

dozen free TaylorMade golf balls.

men’s and ladies’ clubs in a wide variety of shaft Among the premium brands on offer at

flexes, ClubstoHire is the no-hassle choice for

ClubstoHire’s outlet at Malaga airport include

golfers who don’t want the inconvenience and

TaylorMade, with its latest M1 and M2 woods

expense of taking their own clubs abroad, but

and irons, as well as its Rocketballz range, while

still want to play with the very best equipment

Mizuno’s JPX 825 wood and irons are also

at a far more competitive rate than that offered

available. Normally costing £55 per week to hire,

at golf resorts.

and all enjoy luxury fittings along with flatscreen TVs and free WiFi, while facilities include

these top-notch clubs, along with a stand bag, will be yours for the duration of the trip at no

Golfers can go online at www.clubstohire.com

outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a spa,

extra cost.

to pre-select sets of their choice of clubs, which

two restaurants – Ricardo's café or El Lagar –

are then either collected from shops in airport

and a choice of bars. Other onsite services and

ClubstoHire currently boasts 23 club rental

terminals, or delivered direct to hotels or golf

amenities include multiple football pitches,

outlets throughout the world, including outlets

courses for even greater convenience. For more

tennis courts and multi-sports courts, and a golf

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information, visit www.ClubstoHire.com.

academy.

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Lisbon, Dublin and Edinburgh in Europe, while Cape Town, Marrakech, Orlando and Scottsdale

The winners will stay in a twin or double room

course, which was host to the Volvo Masters

are among those located in longer-haul

at the Barceló Montecastillo Golf & Sports Resort

from 1997 to 2001, is a challenging championship

destinations.

which is surrounded by a fantastic natural

layout routed across rolling Andalucian terrain.

environment and a 19th century castle in the

It features plenty of elevation, making buggies

outskirts of Jerez de la Frontera. Located next

all but essential, but golfers are rewarded with

to the famous motor racing circuit, just 10

stunning views from many tees, especially the

minutes from the city airport, it is also close to

iconic par-4 18th which plays back towards the

the beautiful seaside town of Jerez, which is

hotel and the castle.

recently been refurbished to high standards,

T&Cs: Normal competition rules apply, and no cash alternative is available. The prize is for two people, and the winners will have to arrange their own flights and airport transfers. Delivery and collection charges for golf club hire to the resort is not included. The closing date for entries is October 20, 2017. The booking must be made by December 31, 2017, with travel from October 30, 2017 to April 30, 2018, not including public holidays. Subject to availability.

QUESTION ClubstoHire has 23 outlets worldwide,

renowned for its Sherry production.

The 124 spacious rooms and 39 villas have

TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning this great prize, simply answer the question below correctly, and email your name, address and contact details to info@golfnews.co.uk with ‘ClubstoHire Competition’ in the subject line. Please include where you picked up your copy of Golf News.

For more details, call 00 34 956 15 12 04 or visit

but can you name three of its Spanish

www.hotelbarcelomontecastillo.com.

locations?

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olf travellers looking to benefit from the very best local knowledge on their next golfing break should consider booking a guided golf tour with one of the most experienced operators in the business.

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GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

TRAVEL | SEPTEMBER 2017

[71]

ME&MYTRAVELS

Robbie Fowler, the former Liverpool and England striker is a big fan of Dubai, and is hoping for a mid-season transfer to Hoylake

My most recent holiday was to...

Dubai. I go there regularly for work and play. The golf courses are superb and so is the winter climate, while the hotels and restaurants are all world class.

My favourite golf course is...

Royal Liverpool. I know I’m a little bit biased, but it’s a great course, it has lots of

history and tradition, and I love the ambience and feel of the place. I’m hoping to join the club soon – if they’ll have me.

I’m also a member at Carden Park near Chester, but I also play at Wallasey and at Caldy – I held my first charity golf day there in June.

Further afield, I love Kingsbarns in Scotland. It’s a modern take on a links course, with

stunning views to match.

My ideal holiday fourball would include...

John Lennon, Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. I’m not sure John ever picked up a club, but I’m hoping Tiger would tell us a few stories. During my Liverpool career there was always a group of lads at Liverpool who you could have a game

with – the likes of Alan Hansen, Gary McAllister, Gary Gillespie. And I also played with Steve Harkness a lot, and Jamie Redknapp was a good player.

My best ever round was at...

Formby Golf Club in Lancashire. I say ‘best ever round’ – it was more like my best half-round. I play off a 12 handicap and was two under par for the ■ LE ROYAL MERIDIEN RESORT, DUBAI

last nine holes, but I don’t really want to remember the front nine. I finished well, which I suppose was probably a forte of mine on the football field!

■ ROYAL LIVERPOOL GOLF CLUB

My favourite city in the world is…

I'm planning a golf trip to...

New York. It’s just an exciting place to be – familiar yet new, with so many iconic places and buildings.

Portugal or Dubai.

There’s nothing in the diary as yet, but I would like to get something sorted for the winter.

My favourite golf resort is...

My worst golf holiday experience was ...

My top travel tip is ...

Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort in Dubai. I went there with the family. I’ve got four kids, so there needs to be lots of different things to do to entertain everyone.

playing Carnoustie with a hangover in a gale. It’s a lovely course, but I’d not recommend playing it when you’ve been on the lash the night before and it’s pouring with rain!

don’t eat on the plane. I generally feel a lot better when I arrive at my destination having not eaten anything.

Avoid booze too, if you can – just drink lots of water.

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