THE MAN WHO WANTS TO BRING THE RYDER CUP TO BEDFORDFORDSHIRE
SARAH STIRK
ISSUE GUEST EDITOR
Did you see the nal round of the Farmers Insurance Open a few weeks ago on Sky Sports Golf?
The nal group took ve and a half hours to complete their nal rounds. They took an hour to complete the rst three holes three hours to play nine holes it was slow, Dottie Pepper on CBS said these guys need to start showing more respect for their fellow playing competitors, the fans, and the broadcast partners. She said they need to do better. We all need to do better. slow play is a turno .
Justin Thomas sent a memo to his fellow players, urging them to engage more with the media. He called for increased interaction, including more in-round and pre-round interviews— something that’s already being implemented. His message was clear: We need to be more accessible. We need to do more. With TV audiences struggling, Thomas emphasised the importance of promoting golf not just as a sport, but as an entertainment product that needs to be actively sold to fans.
I remember when Charley was at the U.S. Women’s Open at Pebble Beach, standing behind a tree, weighing her options with her caddie. Then she turned to Adam and said, “Shy kids don’t get sweets,” before pulling out a club and hitting an incredible shot. That moment perfectly sums her up—fearless, con dent, and always going for it. We could all use a bit of that mindset.
We need to tackle the issue of slow play once and for all because everyone’s fed up with the constant discussion. In my view, the key solution is putting players on the clock—fines alone aren’t working. The governing bodies must enforce real consequences, such as shot or stroke penalties, to create a strong deterrent and ensure change
It was fantastic to see Charley Hull on the front cover of the last issue of Golf News. She’s a fast player herself, and her solution for slow play on the LPGA Tour is simple—remove the offenders. As she puts it, “If you’re too slow, go, just leave the tour.” What I love about Charley is that she’s unapologetically herself—natural, funny, and an incredible golfer. She doesn’t try to conform or be anything she’s not.
Speaking of mentality, Charley is fantastic from a media perspective—she always has great lines. When asked about her goals for the year, she didn’t even mention golf. Instead, she said, “I want to get my 5K run time down to 20 minutes. It’s 26 right now, but I want to go sub-20.” I love that. She doesn’t just see herself as a golfer—she wants to be an athlete. She trains because she loves it, not just for golf, but for overall tness and mental health. That mindset is so important. When I go and play golf, I’m so in the moment I get away from so of the stresses and strains of everyday life I’m in the moment and I’m focusing solely on that little white ball so I’m not thinking about anything else, its’s my meditation.
And nally… Dress codes at golf clubs are a hot topic right now. The Bristol Golf Club recently scrapped theirs, and I had a great conversation with PGA Master Professional Anders Mankert from Leicester Golf Centre, who has done the same. He told me, “We are trying to make the game as inclusive as possible,” and I love that.
When I rst started playing, many clubs felt stu y, and I worried about whether I was dressed appropriately. That shouldn’t be a barrier to enjoying the game. Anders’ club welcomes players regardless of what they’re wearing, and I think more clubs should follow suit. Golf should be as inviting as possible—ditching dress codes is a step in the right direction.
Enjoy the read.
GOLF
BRIEFS
TAYLORS WIN TOBY SUNDERLAND AWARD
★ Phil Taylor, PGA Master Professional and Head Professional at Pachesham Golf Centre in Surrey, has been named as the PGA’s Toby Sunderland Award Winner for 2024. Taylor has been honoured for his unwavering dedication to the Battle Back Golf programme since 2009, alongside his extensive charitable contributions across a range of other initiatives.“I was surprised to get the nomination,” said Taylor, speaking after he received the award. “It’s recognition of the things I’ve done over the years and for that, I’m absolutely delighted.”
BRIAN WAITES
★ Brian Waites, who was the last traditional PGA Club Professional to play in the Ryder Cup and won twice on what has become the DP World Tour, has passed away at the age of 85. Although several PGA Members, including Ian Poulter and Paul Lawrie, have played in the Ryder Cup after completing the Association’s training programme, Brian was the last who was working as a club professional when he earned selection to represent Europe in 1983.
DUO SECURE LEGENDS TOUR CARDS
★ Matthew Cort and David Shacklady, have both successfully secured Legends Tour cards for the 2025 season following impressive performances at the Legends Tour Q-School Final Stage in Turkey.
Fifty-year-old Cort, who competed on the DP World Tour more than 20 years ago, delivered an outstanding display of golf throughout the week. He dropped just one shot over the first three rounds and capped off his total with a steady 1-over-par 73 in the final round, finishing just one stroke behind the winner, Shininchi Yokota. While he narrowly missed out on top spot, Cort was delighted with his performance and is now looking forward to a season on the Legends Tour circuit where he will compete against Ryder Cup stars and Major champions
MIMI EARNS MAIDEN LADIES TOUR TITLE
★ Mimi Rhodes (Burnham & Berrow) tasted Ladies European Tour success for the first time, producing a composed final day display at Wollongong Golf Club to win the Ford Women’s NSW Open by two shots. Leading by one heading into the final round, Rhodes, who was competing in only her fourth event as a full LET member, showed maturity way beyond her years posting 14 straight pars after birdies at the 2nd and 4th, to go bogey-free on Sunday carding a round of 69 (-2) to end the week on 17-under par.
Pitch Wha Opens New Venue in Canary Wha
Golfers and socialites in London have a new go-to destination with the opening of Pitch Wharf, a state-of-the-art golf and entertainment venue in the heart of Canary Wharf. The agship venue from Pitch o cially launched on February 27, marking a major expansion for the brand.
Situated on Churchill Place, Pitch Wharf boasts an enviable riverside location with spectacular views of the iconic Canary Wharf skyline. Spread across two oors, the venue combines cutting-edge gol ng technology with a sleek and stylish social hub, o ering an experience that caters to both serious golfers and those looking for a premium leisure experience.
With 11 Trackman-powered golf simulator bays, visitors can hone their skills, take lessons, or enjoy a casual round with friends. The venue also features stylish bars, live DJ sets, and shu eboard, creating a vibrant atmosphere that extends beyond golf.
One of the standout additions to Pitch Wharf is the TRENDYGOLF Concept Store, bringing high-end golf fashion to the city. Stocking premium brands such as Adidas, Malbon Golf, Manors, Ralph Lauren RLX, Hugo Boss, and J.Lindeberg, the store cements Pitch Wharf’s reputation as a lifestyle destination as much as a golf venue.
Food and drink are also key attractions, with JIYŪ, an Asian-inspired dining concept, and an enticing cocktail menu served across two stylish bars. The venue o ers exible event spaces, private hire options, and a welcoming atmosphere for both members and visitors. Elliot Godfrey, co-founder and CEO of Pitch, described Canary Wharf as the perfect location for the brand’s agship venue: “With a vibrant atmosphere and so many busy professionals living and working in the area, we believe this is the ideal place for Pitch to thrive.”
Fellow co-founder and CEO Chris Ingham added: “This project has been a labour of love, and the positive feedback from our launch event was incredible. The success of our other venues and the dedication of our team have made this possible, and we’re excited for what’s ahead.”
Pitch Wharf follows the success of Pitch’s rst two London venues in the City and Soho, with further expansion on the horizon. A new venue is set to open in Manchester next year, followed by Birmingham, as the company continues its mission to rede ne urban golf experiences in the UK and beyond.
Brocket Hall to host British Speedgolf Pair Championship
Brocket Hall’s championship Palmerston course will set the stage for the 2025 British Speedgolf Pairs Championship on Sunday, May 11, 2025 - bringing speed, strategy, and teamwork to the forefront of this fastpaced sport.
The British Speedgolf Pairs Championship adds a social twist to the sport, with a foursome format where teamwork is crucial. Players will tee o at timed intervals, running through 18 holes before brunch! Pairs can be single-gender or mixed, featuring a diverse eld of PGA Pros, amateurs, and runners of all abilities.
The Palmerston course at Brocket Hall promises both challenging golf and an intense physical test as players ditch buggies and run between shots. Success hinges on balancing precision with pace, as the nal Speedgolf Score combines total strokes with total time. Many pairs will nish their round in under 60 minutes - some considerably faster!
Alex Wright, Brocket Hall’s Business Development Manager said “Brocket Hall is delighted to host the 2025 British Speedgolf Pairs Championship on our Palmerston Course. This event aligns with our commitment to embracing innovative and dynamic formats in golf. We look forward to welcoming participants and spectators for a thrilling morning of Speedgolf.”
PGA Pro pairing of Luke Willett and Luke Bone, fresh o their World Speedgolf Championship team victory in Japan - will look to set the pace as they defend their British Speedgolf Pairs title.
Pam Painter of British Speedgolf added: “Speedgolf Pairs introduces a dynamic team element to this evolving sport. Speedgolf is fast, inclusive, and demands creativity. It’s the antithesis of slow play - where every second and every golf stroke count.”
Surrey pair win Sunningdale Foursomes
The 91st Sunningdale Foursomes reached a dramatic conclusion with David Corben and Harry Crockett sealing a fantastic 1-up victory over Monty Holcombe and Oscar Lent after nding themselves two down with three holes to play.
In an all-amateur nal with both pairs having played golf for Surrey, things looked bleak for the eventual winners when Holcombe and Lent - from Walton Heath - edged two in front on Sunningdale Old’s par-3 15th hole.
But Corben struck a near-perfect 8-iron to three feet on the 16th, which allowed Crockett to clean up for birdie, before Lent and Holcombe bogeyed 17 to ensure the match was all square heading up the par-4 last.
From there, Lent and Corben found the green in regulation but Holcombe, facing a long putt from the front of the putting surface, ran his e ort ve feet past and when Lent missed the returning putt for par, it allowed Corben to clean matters up with a four to claim a famous win.
“It feels so emotional,” said Corben, 37, who plays out of Hindhead. “It was so close and such a battle but we stuck in there and worked so hard. Losing wasn’t really an option but we were of course up against it
after 15 so it was nice to hit that shot into 16 to give us a chance.
“However, I just wanted to ght until the end for my playing partner. He was exceptional.
Monty and Oscar are two great players who I have got to know in recent years through playing for Surrey. I knew when I rst met them that they were going to be great players and they showed how good they are today. I am sure their time will come, but for us it is so special to know that we will have our name on the famous Sunningdale Foursomes winners’ board.”
Crockett, 23, from Addington Palace, who earlier in the match had made two vital clutch putts on the 7th and 8th holes to save par with Lent and Holcombe looking like they would edge away, added: “It feels incredible to win this event.
“David showed his class in those closing holes and it feels very special. The Foursomes is one of golf’s most famous tournaments so to win it is unreal.”
Earlier in the day, Corben and Crockett overcame last year’s winners and favourites Dylan Shaw-Radford and Harley Smith 1-up in their semi- nal. Lent and Holcombe, meanwhile, won by the same score against professionals Harry Walch - representing
Quail Hollow - and former Walker Cup player
Angus Flanagan (St George’s Hill).
It proved another memorable week at Sunningdale, with 128 pairs teeing it up across Tuesday’s opening day. In an event that is open to both amateurs and professionals, there were a number of standout names that drew huge crowds to the iconic Berkshire venue.
Former Tottenham Hotspur, Real Madrid and Wales legend Gareth Bale was playing in his rst Sunningdale Foursomes. He exited in the rst round with playing partner Matthew Wylie, however, Solheim Cup superstars Charley Hull and Georgia Hall proved one of the stories of the tournament, advancing to the last 16 before falling to Tom Shadbolt and Ben Evans 4 & 3.
■ DAVID CORBEN (LEFT) AND HARRY CROCKETT.
■ LUKE WILLETT AND LUKE BONE
Farnham Golf Club
Unveils Stunning Clubhouse Redesign
Farnham Golf Club in Surrey has officially completed an extensive redesign and refurbishment of its clubhouse, marking a significant transformation of its member and visitor facilities. The project, led by Worthingbased Rory Cashin Design, was completed in February and delivers a modern yet welcoming space with luxurious finishes and a contemporary aesthetic.
The redesign, commissioned by General Manager Ben Beagley and the club’s committee in mid-2022, focused on upgrading the clubhouse’s function room, bar-lounge, and toilet areas. Major structural work was undertaken to open up the bar-lounge spaces, creating a more inviting and spacious environment.
The new interior design draws inspiration from the surrounding Surrey countryside, with a sophisticated colour palette of olive greens, gold, and tan. A blend of bespoke carpeting, porcelain tiles, and luxury timber-effect vinyl enhances the flooring, while the bar area now features a sweeping composite stone counter, ribbed tan leather-clad front panelling, and a striking back bar bottle display.
In the Art Deco-inspired restaurant, a built-in food servery unit, ribbed leather banquettes, and a large bespoke mirror create a refined dining atmosphere. A central ceiling raft with radiused corners and concealed lighting features a statement round fabric and acrylic drum light, while a rectangular fabric pendant with brass rods hangs over the servery.
The bar-lounge lighting includes a mid-century satin brass chandelier, along with perforated metal wall and ceiling lights, adding to the sophisticated ambiance. Custom pale green ‘Crittall’ style metal windows and bi-fold doors bring a retro yet contemporary feel, while stylish Italian furniture— upholstered in a mix of fine fabrics and leather— completes the refined look. Oak-topped dining tables and coffee tables with elegant stone surfaces further enhance the setting.
Framed photographs and a newly designed meeting room add the final touches to the transformation, creating a clubhouse that is both functional and visually stunning.
The renovation aligns with Farnham Golf Club’s long-term vision of providing world-class facilities, offering members and visitors an elevated experience that blends modern luxury with classic charm.
Anton Du Beke and Sarah Stirk Tee O with Exciting New Golf Podcast ‘Pu & Strut’
Golf and entertainment fans alike are in for a treat as Anton Du Beke and Sarah Stirk’s brand-new podcast, ‘Putt & Strut’, has o cially launched. The Global original podcast, which went live last month has already made waves in the gol ng world, bringing listeners a unique blend of celebrity interviews, gol ng stories, and expert tips.
Swapping the dance oor for the fairway, Strictly Come Dancing star Anton Du Beke has teamed up with Sky Sports presenter Sarah Stirk to delve into the lighter side of golf. With a passion for the game, the duo is taking listeners inside the world of golf with exclusive insights, hilarious anecdotes, and engaging discussions with some of the sport’s biggest names and celebrity enthusiasts.
The podcast kicked o with an impressive roster of guests, including Colin Montgomerie, Judy Murray, Lee Westwood, Jodie Kidd, James Nesbitt, Adrian Chiles, and Tom Davis, all of whom bring their own unique take on the game. From career highlights to unforgettable blunders on the course, the show is packed with insightful and entertaining golf chat that is accessible to both seasoned players and casual fans.
Re ecting on the launch, Anton Du Beke expressed his excitement:
“While most people know me more for my pasodoble than my putting, I am absolutely delighted to be sharing my love of golf with the brilliant Sarah Stirk. We have an incredible lineup of celebrity guests who bring some marvellous stories that listeners are going to love!”
His co-host, Sarah Stirk, echoed his enthusiasm:
“Golf is such a huge part of my life, and to be able to share that with Anton – who brings his signature charm and humour – is just fantastic. We’ve been working on ‘Putt & Strut’ for some time, and now that it’s nally out, we can’t wait for people to listen and enjoy it as much as we do!”
Now available on Global Player and all major podcast platforms, ‘Putt & Strut’ is releasing new episodes weekly, ensuring golf fans have plenty to enjoy as they gear up for the 2025 season.
Listen now on Global Player and follow ‘Putt & Strut’ on Instagram for the latest updates!
■ ANTON DU BEKE AND SARAH STIRK BRING GOLF AND ENTERTAINMENT TOGETHER
Close House to Host the 2025 PING Junior Masters
Close House is once again to host the PING Junior Masters, with the 2025 series featuring nine qualifying events across seven counties in the UK
This comes after Close House was awarded Junior Golf Programme of the Year at the 2024 Golf Course Awards as they remain committed to developing the game at all levels.
First launched in 2017 alongside the British Masters at Close House, the PING Junior Masters has since expanded with the support of Lee Westwood and PING Europe, making it one of the UK’s most accessible and exciting junior golf events.
Westwood, who played a key role in the event’s creation, remains a passionate advocate for growing the game and increasing competitive opportunities for young golfers.
“Ahead of the 2017 British Masters event we were keen to o er children the chance to experience the tournament, and it was a highlight of an amazing week,” commented Lee Westwood, o cial Attached Tour Professional at Close House.
“I am delighted that Close House and PING who I have worked with for so many years have continued to create this special program. I attended the nal of the Junior Masters last year and it was amazing to see so many children enjoying the experience.”
The 2025 series will see the return of well-known venues such as Ladybank in Fife, Scotland, and Worksop in Nottinghamshire, while welcoming Alwoodley in Leeds, England, host of last year’s R&A Girls’ and Boys’ Amateur Championship.
The breadth and quality of events evolves in 2025, with youngsters having access to a competitive experience that will undoubtedly aid in their development as a golfer.
Each qualifying event will be run o nett scores, giving a broader range of junior golfers the opportunity to reach the grand nal played at Close House.
From each of the qualifying locations, there are three age categories: 12 and under, 15 and under, and 18 and under. One girl and two boys from each age group will qualify for the nal at Close House on 28th October 2025 – where they will be o ered a tour experience on the Championship Colt Course.
“Close House are committed to o ering a gol ng pathway for junior golfers,” said Jonathan Lupton, Managing Director of Close House.
“This initiative is incredible, o ering competitive experience for aspiring junior golfers whilst enabling us to provide grassroots coaching at local schools courtesy of the support shown by PING.
The whole team at Close House are proud of the Junior Masters and we were honoured to achieve recognition last year at The Golf Course Awards.”
The 2025 events see PING Europe continue their support, providing all the prizes at the grand nal with the aim of giving the next generation of golfers a special and unique experience.
Dave Fanning, European Marketing Director at PING Europe, comments: “The Junior Masters is one of our favourite series to support, and it is brilliant to have such an inclusive opportunity for juniors to develop their game.”
Beyond the competition, the PING Junior Masters is committed to growing the game by providing free golf coaching to over 1,000 schoolchildren each year.
The Close House PGA Teaching Team is dedicated to inspiring and developing the next generation of golfers, delivering expert coaching both in schools and at the Close House Academy- nurturing talent and fostering a lifelong love for the sport.
■ LEE WESTWOOD CELEBRATES WITH PAST PING JUNIOR MASTERS CHAMPIONS
From juniors to global business pa ners with Pitch
When Chris Ingham and Elliot Godfrey rst met as juniors at South Beds Golf Club in 1999, they had no way of knowing that they would go on to run one of the UK’s most talked-about golf businesses together.
But fast forward 26 years and that is the position that the two lifelong friends nd themselves in as co-founders of Pitch Golf. The stylish indoor golf club has just opened its fourth venue in the heart of Canary Wharf and – with two more locations coming this Spring – there’s plenty more to come.
“Though we played together as juniors, for the next fteen years or so our careers followed quite di erent PGA pathsour rst major collaboration together was The CityPoint Golf Studio in Moorgate,” recounts Ingham. “We had a couple of bays for teaching and club tting, but we saw that traditional simulator experiences were being left behind by the way real golf was progressing. We felt that modern simulator tech lent itself perfectly to something more social and inclusive.”
The pair’s response was Pitch Golf, which debuted in Bishopsgate in 2016. Six years later – albeit slightly delayed for obvious reasons – Pitch became a multi-venue club with the opening of Pitch Soho. The brand rst expanded overseas last year with a new venture in Dublin and soon will be opening
Cowdray to host major regional golf championship
Cowdray is set to showcase its major course renovation project this summer as it prepares to host one of the region’s most important golf competitions for the second time in its esteemed history.
Established in 1899 alongside the founding of Sussex County Golf, the Sussex Amateur Championship is the premier event for amateur golfers from West Sussex and East Sussex.
Between Friday, July 4 and Sunday, July 6, the 2025 edition of the historic competition will be played at Cowdray for the second time and the rst since 2004 – just a year after the course reopened following a major course renovation project.
The tournament will bring together the nest players from clubs across West and East Sussex as they vie for the prestigious title of county champion on the par-70 course – the bene ciary of a comprehensive makeover by the venue’s expert maintenance team, who overhauled 39 bunkers and landscaping around several greens, and installed a new eco-friendly cart path network.
Tim Allen, director of golf at Cowdray, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming the county’s best amateur golfers to Cowdray later this year after being chosen to host the 2025 Sussex Amateur Championship.
“The tournament provides us with a great opportunity to not only showcase our course and fantastic course changes, but to also demonstrate how we can e ectively host a large-scale golf tournament here at Cowdray. We are thankful to Sussex County Golf for choosing us to host this wonderful tournament and are already looking forward to July.”
The event will begin with a 36-hole stroke play quali er on July 4, from which the top 16 players advance to the match play knockout stages over the weekend. The semi- nals and nal will be played on July 6, with spectators expected to turn out in force to support their clubmates and witness the crowning of the 2025 county champion.
in Melbourne, Australia, and the US later this year alongside other European venues.
As Godfrey puts it: “It’s no coincidence that we look for locations in busy, fast-paced parts of major cities. For people who live and work in those places, nding the time to travel to a golf course and play eighteen holes can be so di cult. Indoor golf is much easier to t into a busy schedule.”
But regardless of which venue you step into, the essence of Pitch’s signature style is the same. “All of our venues use the best possible technology, but that’s only half the story. We always serve cocktails and our Asian-inspired menu, every venue has an exclusive members’ area and many of them have built-in spaces for live DJ sets. These are places to socialise, relax and enjoy yourselves whether hitting golf balls or challenging friends to a game of shu eboard.”
New ideas are still being developed and implemented as Pitch continues to expand (in a matter of months, Birmingham and Manchester will become the next cities to join the Pitch revolution). One such example is the UK’s rst TRENDYGOLF Concept Store, which opened alongside Pitch Wharf in February.
“TRENDYGOLF and Pitch felt like a natural t,” says Ingham about the partnership with the online retailer, “they value style, inclusivity and they like to try something di erent, which aligns closely with our own ethos.”
Inclusivity is one of the key words at every Pitch location. “We want visitors to feel welcome at any time. Fairly or unfairly, there are so many barriers associated with golf. When you break down those barriers and introduce new people to the game, everybody wins.”
Mill Ride Golf Club Hits the Market Following UK Government Fraud Probe
Mill Ride Golf Club in Berkshire has been listed for sale with a guide price of £4.25 million after being seized by the UK government in connection with a high-pro le fraud investigation.
The club was among the assets forfeited by Zamira Hajiyeva, wife of jailed Azerbaijani banker Jahangir Hajiyev, following an inquiry by the National Crime Agency (NCA). Hajiyeva also agreed to surrender a £14.75 million Knightsbridge property, both of which are now being sold under the supervision of a court-appointed trustee.
Jahangir Hajiyev, the former chairman of the International Bank of Azerbaijan, is currently serving a 16-year prison sentence for fraud and embezzlement. The NCA has stated that the funds used to acquire the golf club and London home were linked to large-scale nancial crimes, including false accounting and money laundering. Investigators found no legitimate source for the money used in the purchases.
According to an NCA spokesperson, 70% of the proceeds from the sale of the properties will be retained by the UK government, while the remaining 30% will be returned to Mrs. Hajiyeva.
Despite the legal proceedings, Mill Ride Golf Club has continued its operations without disruption. Established in 1990, the club features an 18-hole, 6,821-yard championship course designed by renowned golf course architect Donald Steel.
Savills is handling the sale of the club, which is expected to attract signi cant interest from buyers.
PHOTO:
Prostate Cancer UK’s Big Golf Race urges golfers to go the distance in 2025
Prostate Cancer UK is calling on golfers across the UK to go the distance this summer and take on The Big Golf Race to help fund life-saving projects like TRANSFORM, the most ambitious prostate cancer screening trial in over 20 years.
The club was among the assets forfeited by Zamira Since The Big Golf Race was launched in 2020, it has become the biggest golf fundraising challenge in the UK, with more than 14,400 golfers raising over £4.5m to help fund life-saving research to radically improve the way prostate cancer is diagnosed and treated.
This year, the leading men’s health charity is encouraging more golfers to go the distance to help save dads, grandads, brothers, partners and golf mates from a disease that is now the most diagnosed cancer in England, a ecting 1 in 8 men.
Golfers willing to take on The Big Golf Race have three fundraising options: the Marathon (playing 72 holes in a day); the Half Marathon (36 holes) or the formidable Ultra Marathon (100 or more holes).
The Big Golf Race 2025 was o cially launched in February in collaboration with launch partner Charles Tyrwhitt at an exclusive event at Pitch, Soho, attended by gol ng media, content creators and industry stakeholders, joining Prostate Cancer UK supporters and celebrity ambassadors.
Scotland’s most decorated Olympian and keen golfer, Duncan Scott OBE joined former international rugby union star, Kenny Logan, who was successfully treated for prostate cancer in 2022, on a Q&A panel hosted by Sky Sports’ Johnny Phillips.
Prince’s Golf Club has major clubhouse upgrades
Prince’s Golf Club, host of the 1932 Open Championship, has had a series of major upgrades to its clubhouse, aimed at enhancing the experience for both members and visitors. The work, which has already commenced, is scheduled for completion by the end of April and will include a combination of aesthetic and functional improvements.
The clubhouse has received a full white rendering of its exterior, giving it a fresh, modern look. New windows have also be installed, and the outdoor staircases has been fully refurbished. Additionally, a new pathway around the clubhouse will be constructed to enhance the overall entrance experience.
Rob McGuirk, General Manager of Prince’s Golf Club, spoke to Golf News about the upgrades: “We haven’t really touched the clubhouse since 1993, so it was about time we invested in it. We’ve made significant improvements to our courses, practice facilities, and hotel — but the clubhouse was lagging behind”
A key feature of the upgrade will be the installation of a new lift, ensuring the clubhouse is fully accessible for all guests. A dedicated trolley storage area will also be added, offering members greater convenience before and after their rounds.
“These upgrades are an important part of our long-term vision for Prince’s,” McGuirk added.
“The clubhouse is a key focal point for our club, and we’re committed to providing facilities that reflect the quality of our championship links. These improvements will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but will significantly improve functionality for both our members and visitors.”
Commenting on his own prostate cancer journey, Logan said: “It’s inspiring to see how much the golf community has got behind The Big Golf Race, raising an incredible amount of money for Prostate Cancer UK.
“I knew about prostate cancer before my diagnosis, but as a young man, playing professional sport, you think you’re untouchable. As you get older, you realise these things can happen and knowing that 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer re ects how important it is for men to know their risk. He also told Golf News that he aims to play 100 holes in a day at his home club of Beacons eld GC.
“The Big Golf Race is fantastic as it gives golfers the opportunity to get together on the course and open up about their health, as well as raising money for a brilliant cause. I’m delighted to be involved for 2025, and I hope to see as many golfers as possible out there this summer making a di erence for men and their families.”
THE 155TH OPEN TO BE PLAYED AT ST ANDREWS IN 2027
The R&A has announced that The 155th Open will be played at St Andrews from 11-18 July 2027.
The Championship will return to the home of golf for the first time since a record-breaking 290,000 fans attended The 150th Open in 2022, a historic occasion that culminated in Cameron Smith producing a remarkable final round 64 over the world-renowned Old Course to lift the famous Claret Jug.
It will mark 100 years since legendary amateur Bobby Jones triumphed in The Open at St Andrews in 1927 when his six-shot margin of victory saw him successfully defend the title he won the previous year at Royal Lytham & St Annes.
Mark Darbon, Chief Executive of The R&A, who took up the role at the start of the year, said, “I’m hugely excited to be making this my first announcement at The R&A. I’m looking forward to The Open’s return to St Andrews every bit as much as the fans and the players.
There is something incredibly special about The Open being played on the Old Course and so many of the great champions have walked these fairways since the first staging here in 1873.
“St Andrews is the home of golf and it generates a unique atmosphere for the fans and the players as well as providing an amazing spectacle on television and digitally for millions of viewers around the world.
It promises to be another milestone occasion at one of sport’s greatest and most historic venues and we will be doing everything we can to make it a memorable experience for everyone involved.”
Eight-time Olympic medallist Scott will also be supporting fellow Olympian Sir Chris Hoy’s Tour de 4 ride, raising money for Prostate Cancer UK, along with four other cancer charities this September.
He said: “Prostate Cancer UK’s Big Golf Race is an epic challenge that has made a real impact for men a ected by prostate cancer, so I’m thrilled to be supporting it this year. It’s a brilliant way of combining a fun day out on the course with mates with raising money for vital prostate cancer research, so it’s a real win-win.
Leading menswear brand Charles Tyrwhitt is continuing its life-saving support of Prostate Cancer UK by sponsoring the Big Golf Race launch event. The brand aims to help reach more men with important prostate cancer risk messaging and encourage men to know their risk of the disease.
To sign up to The Big Golf Race, visit biggolfrace.prostatecanceruk.org
■ PRINCE’S WILL BE WELCOMING GOLFERS BACK TO THE UPGRADED CLUBHOUSE
THE INTERVIEW SURINDER ARORA
Meet the Man Who Wants to Bring the Ryder Cup to Luton Hoo
t’s been more than two decades since the Ryder Cup was last staged in England. In 2002, Sam Torrance captained Europe to a 15½-12½ victory over the United States at The Belfry, the fourth time the famous North Warwickshire venue hosted the biennial contest. It remains to be seen whether England’s wait to host the prestigious contest will extend beyond 30 years. As it stands, Camiral Golf &
Wellness Resort (formerly PGA Catalunya) in Spain is reported to be in pole position to host the event in 2031, although there has yet to be an official announcement.
One man that will be hoping to see the Ryder Cup return to England is Surinder Arora, the founder and chairman of Arora Group, owners of The Buckinghamshire Golf Club. Four years ago, the company bought Luton Hoo, and Arora has big plans for the venue. Work will soon commence on building a new course, one that
will be worthy of hosting the Ryder Cup. That’s the dream: Luton Hoo, Ryder Cup venue 2031. He might settle for 2035, but the ambitious billionaire businessman, who moved to England from India when he was 13 years old, is ploughing on with his bold plans for the property regardless - and he has a lot of good support, too, in the shape of golfing legends Gary Player and Justin Rose.
Matt Nicholson caught up with Surinder Arora at his Heathrow offices to talk about his love of the game, and what golfers can look forward to seeing at Luton Hoo in the not-too-distant future and something special in the pipeline at his Fairmont Windsor Hotel in Berkshire. F
When did you discover your passion for the game?
It was really when I moved to Wentworth in 1999. A parent at my daughter’s school persuaded me to play a game on the Edinburgh course. He gave me a shot a hole. We played two games, and I never won a single hole. He said, ‘Surinder, you’re so bad - you’ll never beat me!’ That’s what got me going.
Did you beat him?
I went and had a few lessons. Within eight or nine months we were kind of level. I remember the rst time I was winning when we got to the 18th on the West. I was one up. I said, ‘Come on, let’s double the bet. I’ll give you a shot.’ I lost the hole, but I reminded him that he said I’d never beat him, and that I had just had to give him a shot. It was all about bragging rights.
■ AERIAL SHOT OF
■ SURINDER HAD A MEMORABLE ROUND WITH PADRAIG HARRINGTON
What’s been your most memorable gol ng moment?
I remember it clearly. I always used to say to my son, Sanjay, that one day I want to go to the Masters. Six years ago, when it was my 60th birthday, he made a plan. He put all these dummy appointments in my diary. Then, a couple of days before the Masters, we sat down for dinner and he said, ‘Dad, I’ve got a surprise for you. We’re going rst to the Masters. First class.’
That’s not a bad birthday present… When we got there, he’d planned for us to have dinner with Gary Player at a place near Augusta. Gary’s been a good friend for many years. I watched the Masters on Thursday, had dinner with Gary that evening, and I played golf with him the next morning at one of the local courses.
That does sound rather good… I was standing on the rst tee pinching myself, wondering whether it was all real. I never thought anything like this existed. I remember thinking if I’d come ten years earlier, I would have gone back to England and looked for 600 acres of land and I’d have built my own Augusta National of Europe.
What about your most memorable round? Playing with Padraig Harrington in the BMW PGA Pro-Am at Wentworth. It was about 15 years ago. I was playing o about 20. I’ve got some funny habits, and Padraig kept giving me tips. It was one of those days. I went out in 40 and came back in 41. Maybe one day I can get to a ten or twelve handicap, I thought. I’ve never done it again, but I love the game.
What is it you enjoy so much?
It’s just such a great game, regardless of your age. My dear friend, KP Singh, the owner of DLF, he’s 95 and he plays four times a week. Look at Gary - approaching 90, and he’s out on the golf course every day. Then you see youngsters. My four-year-old grandson is having lessons. That’s the beauty of this amazing game.
Has the game in uenced your personal and professional life?
It’s had a big impact on both in a positive way. You meet such wonderful people, young and old, and then there’s the etiquette. I really miss it now if I don’t play. On a good day, I can play o 16. I just love the game. It’s about the people you play with and the people you meet.
Let’s talk about your work. What was your vision starting out?
When I started, I wanted to build a four-star hotel. I wanted to o er ve-star service at threeand-a-half star prices. If you can do that, you can beat your competitors. That was the vision, and we did that against the big boys. Within 12 years, we became the largest family-owned hotel company in the UK.
Tell us about how you acquired Luton Hoo About a year after coming back from that Augusta trip, Knight Frank rang and asked if I was interested in buying it. I said no. Then, one Sunday, Sanjay took his wife and my grandson to Whipsnade Zoo, which is around the corner, and then went to Luton Hoo for afternoon tea. The next day, he said, ‘I’ve got an appointment, and you’re coming with me!’ We jumped in the
■ SURINDER ARORA (RIGHT) AT THE REOPENING OF CLUBHOUSE AT THE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE WITH KP SINGH (CENTRE) AND SANJAY ARORA (LEFT)
car and went to Luton Hoo. As soon as I saw it and we drove up to the main mansion, I said, ‘I’m going to buy this.’ Without even going inside. We bought it cash - sold as seen. To become the custodian of such a beautiful estate, it’s amazing. That’s when the dream of hosting the Ryder Cup started.
Is that dream still alive?
Yes. The only problem was that the previous owner got the planning permission 20 years earlier to build the golf course, but with no bunkers. You can’t host any championship if you don’t have bunkers. So, that’s the challenge. We’ve been working really hard with the local authority, local planners, and Historic England. The dream is to create something really special that not only creates hundreds of jobs, but puts central Bedfordshire on the world map. People still talk about The Belfry, which was the last time the Ryder Cup was held in England. This is what we want to try and do.
Who will be designing the course?
We have put together an amazing team. We’ve got European Golf Design, with Jeremy Slessor and Dave Sampson. I’ve also got Gary Player and Justin Rose. Normally you wouldn’t get two of the greats working together like that.
I’ve known Gary for 25 years now, and Justin is such a gentleman. It’s not just about building
a golf course for a competition. I’ve spoken to Justin about also doing a Rose Golf Academy for young people around the area. I feel we have the best team.
Will the new course be on the existing layout?
When you drive around, you’ve got the stables on the right - that’s where the golf shop and everything else is. You’ve got three or four holes in the middle, and then you’ve got the rest of the course on the left as you’re looking from the road. We’re trying to remove those middle courses and return that back to parkland, which was a huge tick in the box for Historic England. We’re taking it all the way down to the signature holes by the lake. It’s going to be amazing.
When will the work commence at Luton Hoo? After Easter this year. We’re not going to wait. We’ve got to see if we can get the Ryder Cup in 2031 or 2035. We’re still going to keep pushing for 2031.
What makes the service at The Buckinghamshire and Luton Hoo different? When I was opening my first at a hotel, I got a very experienced General Manager, who had 25 years in the Forte Hotel Group, Guy Morris. I remember telling Guy one day that I wanted to be different from other hotel companies. I wanted us to treat our staff like family and our guests like royalty.
You recently appointed Gerry Ivers from Queenwood. Are you looking to grow your portfolio?
I’ve always said that we look at anything and everything. We have acquired Fairmont Windsor Park. It was about 20 odd acres, and now we have nearly 250, so we can build a lovely golf course there, attached to the Fairmont. That would be built by the same team as the Ryder Cup one for Luton Hoo.
WE ARE STILL GOING TO KEEP PUSHING FOR THE RYDER CUP IN 2031
You’ve invested over £11 million into transforming the clubhouse at The Buckingshamshire. Are any other investments planned?
I’ve given the go ahead for a drainage project. We need to replace 14 holes, so we’ll get all 18 done. We’re taking no shortcuts. There’s also a bit of extra work to be done on the 17th and 18th holes, which will happen this year. Sanjay has an amazing golf club.
What’s the joining fee at The Buckinghamshire? They are just raising the fee from £20,000 to £25,000, but it’s so close to London. The type of clientele they’ve got now is incredible. For me, it’s my passion - and it has the Arora Group branding on the doorstep!
If you could change one thing about the golf industry, what would it be?
That’s a tough one. There’s nothing I would say I’d change. Hopefully we’ll get more people putting cash into golf rather than just saying, ‘What return can I get?’ That would be great for the game.
What advice would you give to an aspiring entrepreneur looking to invest in golf?
There are always different returns. You’ll never get the returns that you can make in tech, for example. Choose what your passion is, like we have. Then make sure, to the best of your ability, to keep in the black rather than the red!
■ THE MANSION HOUSE AT LUTON HOO
■ THE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE PART OF THE ARORA GROUP PORTFOLIO
EXPERIENCE GOLF AT ITS FINEST:
FRILFORD HEATH GOLF CLUB
In the heart of Oxfordshire lies one of England’s finest golf day experiences and it is enjoying something of a renaissance. Blessed with 54-holes of championship golf, Frilford Heath Golf Club, is re-emerging as a choice location for golfers seeking wonderful courses supported by first class hospitality and customer service.
estled within 450 acres of naturally beautiful terrain where golf has been played for over a century, Frilford Heath Golf Club, in the heart of Oxfordshire, stands as one of England’s favourite golf destinations.
For generations, golf has thrived on Frilford Heath’s naturally sandy terrain, o ering classic heathland conditions that remain rm and playable year-round. With meticulously maintained fairways and greens, the club upholds the highest standards, ensuring an outstanding experience on pristine playing surfaces.
Visitors are also bene tting from ongoing investment across the estate, including signi cant enhancements to all golf courses - already renowned for their yearround conditioning - and an elevated clubhouse experience.
Boasting 54 holes of championship golf and its contemporary clubhouse, this stunning estate delivers world-class heathland golf at its nest.
Having hosted Ryder Cup trials, Open Qualifying events, and leading amateur
tournaments, Frilford’s Red, Blue and Green golf courses provide a diverse challenge for golfers of all skill levels.
The Red and Green courses were designed by ve-time Open Champion J.H. Taylor, while the Blue, a more recent addition from the 1990s, quickly gained fame for its bold bunkering and undulating greens that demand precise putting.
Peter McEvoy OBE, one of the country’s most decorated amateur golfers, perfectly captures Frilford Heath’s essence: “It is God-given land— sandy and rm. There are a great variety of holes on the three courses and a plethora of that much-neglected genre, short par 4s. Frilford has some of the very best.”
A day at Frilford Heath is further enriched by its idyllic setting, where golf and nature exist in perfect harmony. As a GEO-certi ed golf club, it is committed to environmental sustainability. The 450-acre estate, designated as a Site of Special Scienti c Interest (SSSI), is carefully preserved in partnership with Natural England to protect local wildlife and habitats for future generations.
FRILFORD HEATH GOLF CLUB STANDS AS ONE OF ENGLANDS FAVOURITE GOLF DESTINATIONS.
DID YOU KNOW?
• An exhibition match between the JH. Taylor and Harry Vardon in 1909 – both Open Champions – signalled the o cial opening of Frilford Heath Golf Club. They squared the morning match, with Vardon winning the afternoon session, 5&3.
• The club celebrated its centenary in 2008 with the return of the England Vs France International Match, which was rst played at Frilford Heath in 1934. English players for the 2008 edition included Danny Willett, Gary Wolstenholme and Chris Wood. The French team included Victor Dubuisson.
• Frilford Heath played host to a Ryder Cup Trial Match in 1931. It was dubbed a ‘Possibles vs. Probables’ event held in the same format as the actual event. It was designed to check the form of up-andcoming young British Professionals, and also see the performance results of a new sized, larger and lighter golf ball!.
SPECIAL MIDWEEK GOLF OFFER
Golf News readers booking a round at Frilford Heath Golf Club during March and April can take advantage of a very special package that includes co ee and bacon roll on arrival, 18-holes of championship golf, plus a one-course meal in the Clubhouse.
April 2025 - £135pp
Quote ‘Golf News O er’ when you book.
To make your booking, call the team on: 01865 390864, or email: reception@frilfordheath.co.uk
Merrist Wood Golf Club Hits the Market
for £2.25M
I’ve just changed my life – Ex-biker gang member Ryan Peake books Open place
Former motorcycle gang member Ryan Peake described his New Zealand Open triumph as a lifechanging moment after victory booked his spot at the Open Championship.
The Australian claimed a one-shot win at Millbrook Resort in Queenstown, shooting a nal-round 66 to nish on 23 under par.
Peake’s victory comes after he served ve years in prison for assault when he was a part of the Rebels biker gang.
He did not have the necessary visa to travel to New Zealand for the tournament until the start of the week and, as a result, only arrived on Tuesday ahead of the rst round on Thursday.
By winning the title the 31-year-old has earned a spot at this year’s Open Championship, which takes place at Royal Portrush in July.
“I’ve just changed my life. This is what I do,” Peake said on the New Zealand Open website.
“I want to be here and just play golf. The story is what it is, but I’m just out here playing golf.”
Peake had played amateur golf in his youth and, during his time in prison, was contacted by coach Ritchie Smith to ask if he wanted to play competitively.
“I always knew I could do it. It was just a matter of time when I was going to do it,” Peake added.
Merrist Wood Golf Club in Guildford, Surrey has been listed for sale by Savills with an asking price of £2.25 million.
Set in the stunning Surrey countryside, the 18-hole, 6,909-yard course was originally designed by renowned golf architect David Williams. Beyond the course itself, the property boasts practice facilities, a purpose-built 8,177 sq. ft. clubhouse, and 210.49 acres of land, o ering ample potential for redevelopment.
The course, known for its natural beauty, features a gentle south-facing slope, four lakes, and mature woodland areas, making it a picturesque yet challenging venue for golfers. Since its opening, it has received high praise, even earning a place among the UK’s top 10 new courses of the 1990s.
With its prime Surrey location, the club presents exciting opportunities for prospective buyers. It could either be revitalized as a premier 18-hole golf course or redeveloped for alternative uses, subject to planning permission.
Kay Gri ths, director in the Leisure and Trade-Related team at Savills, emphasized the club’s potential: “Merrist Wood Golf Course is a substantial landholding in a prime Surrey location with potential to be re-launched as a mature 18-hole golf course or alternatively put to a variety of alternative uses, subject to obtaining the required planning permission. We anticipate substantial interest from a diverse range of potential buyers, as opportunities of this nature rarely arise in such an attractive location.”
Golf at the Royal Automobile Club
Shortly after the Royal Automobile Club bought Woodcote Park, twenty-seven holes (in three loops) were devised by the renowned golf-course designer William Herbert Fowler and the first golf course, the Old Course, opened on 20 March 1915. The Coronation of 1953 was celebrated at Woodcote Park with the opening of the Coronation Course.
With two exceptional downland golf courses in the beautiful surroundings of Epsom Downs, members and their guests can enjoy the perfect golfing experience. Sweeping down towards Epsom Racecourse, the tree-lined grounds make for a dramatic backdrop to a round of golf at any time of the year.
www.royalautomobileclub.co.uk
HERBERT FOWLER: THE VISIONARY ARCHITECT
HERBERT FOWLER, a leading architect of golf’s ‘golden age,’ shaped renowned courses such as Saunton, Royal North Devon, Burnham & Berrow, Walton Heath, and the RAC Club at Woodcote Park—leaving a lasting legacy for golfers worldwide.
Among a select group of British architects who played a leading role in golf course design’s ‘golden age’ during the early years of the 20th century, Herbert Fowler has left a lasting legacy for golfers from all over the world to enjoy. Nowhere is this more evident than in his beloved West Country, where the stunning links layouts he helped shape at Saunton, Royal North Devon, and Burnham & Berrow, along with the majestic heathland courses at Walton Heath in Surrey, remain revered to this day.
As with most successful second careers, Herbert Fowler became one of England’s most celebrated golf course architects quite by accident. Born into a wealthy Somerset textile family in 1856, Fowler eschewed the traditional university education route followed by his peers and started his working life in banking, becoming a partner in a Wellington-based rm. Somewhat unusually, he also played rst-class cricket for Somerset, where his prowess as a bighitting all-rounder saw him nish his career with a batting average of 20 from 49 innings and a bowling average of 22 from 23 wickets.
Unfortunately for his career prospects in banking, Fowler’s gures weren’t quite as impressive when it came to nance, and his rm went bust in the late 1890s. Deep in debt
with no obvious means of paying them o , Fowler’s move into golf course design came about when his wealthy banker brother-in-law, Sir Cosmo Bonsor, proposed that he work o his debts by helping him build a golf course on a large parcel of land he owned in Walton-on-theHill, Surrey. Thus, the seeds of Fowler’s second— and most important—career were sown. By the standards of the day, the creation of what is now Walton Heath’s Old Course was a slow process, taking over three years to build and not opening until the summer of 1904. Fowler was painstaking in his preparation of the land, even implementing a modern irrigation system. The course’s length of 6,424 yards was impressive for the time, likely in uenced by Fowler’s own powerful driving. It proved to be a prescient move, as advancements in golf technology soon made longer courses a necessity.
having become a member of both the R&A and the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers. His success at Walton Heath led to commissions across the British Isles, including a redesign of his own gol ng alma mater, Royal North Devon. With business booming, Fowler welcomed Tom Simpson into his practice in 1910, and together they developed or modi ed numerous courses, including Delamere Forest in Cheshire and the Royal Automobile Club in Surrey. The outbreak of the Great War in 1914 halted course development, but Fowler’s impact had already been felt.
Fowler’s original design at the RAC’s Woodcote Park made it the longest course in the country at its inception, measuring 6,840 yards. The layout featured wide fairways and challenging green positions, demanding precise approach shots from golfers. Over time, modi cations were made to enhance playability, including the addition of par-three holes and adjustments to the sequencing of holes to maintain its competitive standard.
During both World Wars, portions of the Woodcote Park estate were repurposed for military use. In World War I, it served as a training camp, and in World War II, parts of the estate, including sections of the golf courses, were used for food production to support the war e ort. Post-war, the Coronation Course was developed on the site of Fowler’s original C loop, opening in 1953 to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
Fowler built a second course at Walton Heath, the New Course, in 1907, though it initially had just nine holes and was expanded to 18 six years later. By then, Fowler was a major gure in golf,
HERBERT FOWLER BECAME ONE OF ENGLAND’S MOST CELEBRATED GOLF COURSE ARCHITECTS QUITE BY ACCIDENT.
Although Fowler did little overseas work, a post-war trip to the US resulted in the construction of the Eastward Ho! course on Cape Cod and the extension of Pebble Beach’s 18th hole, now an iconic par ve. Returning to England in 1919, Fowler was tasked with rebuilding Saunton’s East Course. The course was a triumph, with legendary golf writer Bernard Darwin hailing it as one of the nest in the world. In 1920, Fowler and Simpson partnered with JF Abercromby and Arthur Croome, creating and modifying numerous courses across Britain and Europe. While Simpson worked primarily abroad, Fowler traveled widely at home, remodeling courses such as Aberdovey, Cruden Bay, and Royal Lytham & St Annes. His work at The Berkshire, where he designed the Blue and Red Courses, showcased his creativity, incorporating six par threes, six par fours, and six par ves in a design that harmonized with the natural landscape.
Fowler retained his gol ng prowess well into his later years, shooting a remarkable 70 at St Andrews’ Old Course at age 68. He passed away in 1941 at 84, leaving just £325 in his will. A modest sum for a man whose designs have in uenced the game for generations and will continue to do so for centuries to come.
HERBERT FOWLER’S GEMS
BULL BAY GOLF CLUB Few places can rival the setting of Bull Bay, a blend of lush fairways, ravines, elevated tees and superb greens. Arguably Fowler’s bestkept secret, he made the most of undulating land that nature provided and sets the player a unique challenge. Once played you are certain to return. Hosting the Welsh Seniors Open 2025.
Tel: 01407 830960 | Web: bullbaygc.co.uk
to catch a wayward
yards and present a di erent challenge from which ever
you chose to
from. Being relatively at the course is easy walking but the climb up the 9th hole takes you to the highest point of the course where you can take in the stunning views.
Tel: 01424 842040 | Web: coodenbeachgc.com
COODEN BEACH features dykes, ponds and bunkers
shot. Nine holes exceed 400
tee
play
SHIRLEY PARK GOLF CLUB is five minutes’ drive from East Croydon station, yet it is a hidden oasis of 130 acres of Surrey countryside. The course was officially opened in July 1914 by the then Lord Mayor of London and still today, it is regarded as one of the finest courses in the south London area, with an extremely warm welcome.
BACK TO BUSINESS
After enduring a succession of injuries which threatened to end her career, Scotland’s Carly Booth is preparing to get back on the pro circuit and add to an impressive CV that includes three Ladies European Tour titles. By Nick Bayly.
t will be small consolation to Carly Booth, widely regarded as one the game’s brightest talents when she rst broke onto the scene as a 17-year-old amateur at the 2009 Ladies Scottish Open, that many a professional golf career has been temporarily derailed due to freak injuries caused by events entirely unconnected with their chosen profession.
World no.1 Scottie Sche er had to delay his start to the current season after cutting his hand while making ravioli over the Christmas holidays, while 2014 Ryder Cup player Jamie Donaldson and two-time Open champion Greg Norman both had to take some time out from the game after losing arguments with chainsaws. Rory McIlroy missed six weeks of the 2015 season – and the chance to defend his 2014 Open Championship title – after injuring his ankle playing ve-a-side football, while South African legend Ernie Els missed the entire second half of the 2005 season after a tearing knee ligament while playing with his kids on a sailing holiday.
Booth’s injury, which was similar to Els’, was caused by something slightly less dramatic, but no less painful. It happened in 2022 when she slipped on some water in her kitchen while defrosting a fridge freezer. Holding a freshly roasted chicken in one hand and a knife in the other only, she was unable to use her arms to break her fall and, while the chicken was saved, her right knee popped out at an awkward angle, and she screamed out in agony as she crashed to the oor.
After initially trying to repair the injury through physio and rehab, 18 months of constant pain later, Booth, and her doctors, reached the conclusion that knee surgery was the only way that she would be able to resume her gol ng career.
The operation took place in January last year, and was deemed a success, but just six months later she was back on the surgeon’s table again to undergo the same procedure on her left knee.
pressure on herself to perform out of the gate.
“It’s been a tough few years, I won’t lie, as golf has been everything to me,” she says. “I just want to be in a position where I can get back on tour. I had the opportunity to play in some early season events on the Ladies European Tour thanks to my career money status, but I don’t feel that I’m quite ready to be playing two or even four consecutive tournament rounds just yet. So I’ll be feeling my way gently back into the game, and the Rose Ladies Series, which are just 18hole events, is the perfect way to do that.”
income through part-time work while she devotes all of her time to getting back to full tness. “Golf is all I know, so there is no Plan B,” she says.
She adds: “Up until very recently I’ve not even been able to play more than nine holes, as I simply haven’t had the strength, so I have spent most of this winter working on my tness in the gym while also try to get my game back in shape. The weather has been terrible, so conditions have not been ideal for practicing or playing, but you just have to make the best of it.”
Although hailing from Scotland, Booth now lives in Surrey and is attached to Hankley Common Golf Club and Apes Hill in Barbados, although she can regularly be found working on her game at Foxhills and on the busy driving range at Hoebridge Golf Centre, which is near to her home in Woking.
When you’re earning no money from golf, even shelling out £10 for a bucket of practice balls is no fun, so it’s no wonder she is unwilling to commit to travelling to far ung destinations on the Ladies European Tour – and all the costs that international travel involves – until she thinks she is ready to properly compete again.
It’s all a far cry from the Carly Booth who made history aged 11 when becoming the youngest ladies’ club champion in the UK, winning the title at her home club, Dunblane New, in 2003. Just four years later, aged 15, she was rated the No.1 junior in Europe after winning the 2007 European Junior Masters, the same year she lifted the Scottish U18 and U21 titles. In 2008, she became the youngest player to represent GB & Ireland in the 76-year history of the Curtis Cup. She also played at the Junior Ryder Cup in 2006 and 2008, and in 2009 became the youngest-ever Scottish golfer to qualify for the Scottish Women’s Open.
After nishing 14th at the Ladies European Tour qualifying school in 2010, Booth made her pro debut in Morocco in 2011, and success soon followed, landing her breakthrough win at the 2012 Ladies Scottish Open at Archer eld Links, then adding the Ladies Swiss Open a couple of months later. But she had to wait another ve years to enter the winner’s circle again, capturing the Czech Ladies Open in 2019. A year later a major shoulder injury took her out of the game for ve months and signalled the beginning of what has been an incredibly frustrating period of her career.
Looking back on those early whirlwind years, Booth says: “After my amateur career, there was huge expectation on me to rise to the top. Winning twice in 2012 was a big weight o my shoulders, but the next season was a tough lesson. It’s all mental. When I was winning, I was so full of con dence that after tournaments I’d take a few days o , not even touch a club. Then when I started to struggle, I was hitting the range all the time trying to solve my problems. Doubting myself, and my swing. That’s not good for your game.”
Needless to say, it’s been long a very road back for the 32-year-old Scot, with endless hours spent in the gym over the last six months attempting to regain the strength in her legs, and prepare herself for the rigours of not just swinging a golf club, but walking 18 holes for four or ve days a week.
Speaking ahead of her long-awaited return to competitive action, which will see her enter the ve oneday Rose Ladies Series events being held during April and May, Booth sounds eager to get writing the next chapter of her career, while also being wary of putting too much
“It’s super competitive out there, so I just need to see how my game stacks up under the pressure of competition before I commit to the expense of playing full-time on the main tour again,” she says. Being absent from the game for so long has not only hurt her world ranking, but has also hurt her in the pocket, with no prize money coming in and what sponsors she had deserting her. TaylorMade has continued to provide equipment, and she has recently been signed up by player management agency Jenahura, but she’s on her own in all other departments and has been unable to generate
She adds: “I look back at my three wins with great pride, but I still feel I have so much to o er in the game. It was just unfortunate that I picked up my shoulder injury and then to have two knees replaced in the one year was a big setback, so it’s been di cult. But I’m not done yet. I’ve always loved a challenge, and I won’t be shying away from this one.”
IT’S SUPER COMPETITIVE OUT THERE, SO I JUST NEED TO SEE HOW MY GAME STACKS UP UNDER THE PRESSURE OF COMPETITION
SCHOOL’S OUT, GOLF’S IN
ALICE COOPER UK TOUR DATES 2025
July 22 Utilta Arena Cardi
July 23 Edinburgh Playhouse
July 25 The O2 London
Rock legend Alice Cooper talks toGolf News about his lifelong love of golf, how the game keeps him grounded, and why he’ll be bringing his clubs along on his UK tour this summer. ■
Alice Cooper is the ultimate icon of theatrical rock – a guitared goliath famed for leather, for the likes of Elected, Poison and School’s Out, and a bucketload of make-up. Yet the passion that has defined the second half of his life sees him wielding not satanic spears, staffs, and crosses, but a Callaway driver.
For the 77-year-old, getting into golf was more than just a pastime - it was a lifeline. A notorious hard-living rocker during his younger years, the American found himself spiralling into alcoholism in the late 1970s. His recovery story is well-documented, but one of the lesserknown elements of his rehabilitation was his discovery of golf.
“I needed to replace a bad addiction with a good one,” he recalls. “I had all this energy and time that used to be spent drinking, so I had to do something. And once I got into golf, I was completely hooked.”
In the four decades since, the sport has become an almost-daily ritual for the rock star. He plays four or five days a week, usually first thing in the morning. “In the old days I was a morning person because I hadn’t gone to bed; now it’s flipped itself and I am up early, often teeing off at sunrise to ensure I make the most of the day that’s in front of me.
“To be getting back home midmorning for a late breakfast having already completed 18 holes is one hell of a feeling, and it sets me up for the rest of the day.”
The game, for Cooper, isn’t just about distraction from the perils of temptation, nor a simple yearning for the feelgood power of exercise. “It’s more than that,” he says, “it’s about focus, discipline, and self-improvement.”
Sure enough, the star, who has sold over 50 million records going right the way back to the release debut album Pretties for You in 1969, has proven himself to be an exceptional golfer over the years. With a handicap that’s hovered as low as five, he’s played with some of the best in the sport - professionals and fellow celebrity golf enthusiasts. He fondly recalls rounds with Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods, as well as showdowns with celebrity players like Justin Timberlake and Samuel L. Jackson.
“I would say it’s the time I’ve spent playing with Vijay Singh, with John Daly and Davis Love that’s been the most valuable. Those guys taught me so much not just about the game, but about myself. They really got me hooked on the whole thing.
“One of the best things about golf is indeed the people you meet,” he says. “I’ve played with legends - people I never would have imagined spending time with if it weren’t for golf. And let me tell you, Michael Jordan on a golf course is just as competitive as he was on the basketball court.”
Asked about his best personal moment on the course, Cooper recalls a hole-inone he made in 2016. “That was a surreal moment. The ball took one bounce and just disappeared. It’s the kind of thing you dream about but never expect to happen.
“I love the challenge of it,” he says. “You’re always trying to get better, no matter how good you are. And the thing about golf is, you never really master it.
Even the pros hit bad shots… perhaps that’s what keeps it interesting.”
Cooper’s go-to clubs include a Callaway driver and set of custom irons tailored to suit his playing style. “The technology in golf clubs today is incredible,” he remarks. “I always joke that if I had these clubs 30 years ago, I’d be on the PGA Tour by now.”
Sure enough, there is a competitive streak in the musician that, despite his advancing years, shows little sign of abating. “I do play to win – that’s important for me; but most of what golf means to me revolves around being outside, feeling peace and thinking about things.
“That’s not to say I’m comfortable with losing but the biggest battle is often with yourself. You come across a new challenge every day on the course. With music you run into the same chords quite often or find yourself moving around the same lyrics. Yet with golf it’s a different composition every time – the lie, the overhead conditions, the pin placement, the way you are feeling in yourself and on that day.”
Is the temptation to cheat ever in his mind? Surely such a rock rebel must afford himself the odd favourable drop, light greasing of the clubface, or gentle massaging of the scorecard.
“I genuinely don’t know anybody who doesn’t cheat, although maybe that’s just the company I keep! But c’mon, everybody cheats… but only when it’s for fun. I’ve played golf with Donald Trump. I won’t say any more than that!”
Ultimately, Cooper knows he can’t really be unfaithful to the sport that saved me. “It owes me nothing and I owe it everything. I can safely say I wouldn’t be here without it,” he remarks. “My normal life before I took up golf was to wake up in the morning and open a can of beer; that’s how I started my day. Then, one day I had a beer and threw up blood and I thought, ‘well, that’s probably not good’.
“My doctor asked me if I wanted to join my buddies - I had a drinking club called The Hollywood Vampires which included Keith Moon, Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix, Harry Nilsson… all the usual suspects!
“We would drink every night until it was last man standing. When I quit drinking well over 40 years ago my excess became golf. I never thought it could replace it, but it did.
“These days it’s less about distraction and more about simply keeping me moving, keeping me sharp,” he says. “People ask me how I still have the energy to perform, and I tell them—play
WITH A HANDICAP THAT’S HOVERED AS LOW AS FIVE, HE’S
18 holes a day. That’ll keep you young.” Cooper’s is an enthusiasm for the sport that extends beyond just playing. The star has been involved in charitable golf tournaments and events, using his love for the game to give back. His annual Alice Cooper Rock & Roll Golf Classic has raised significant funds for his Solid Rock Teen Centres, which provide free music, dance and arts programs for young people.
In 2024, Cooper kicked off a radio golf show with six-time PGA Tour winner and US Open runner-up Rocco Mediate, in which the pair muse over golf and music; and this year he embarks on a new album and tour. You’d think this may lessen the time he has available for getting up and down, but the opposite is true.
“Touring gives me the opportunity to try out new courses, new challenges. I do love the courses back home in Arizona – the Phoenix Country Club; the Muirfield Village course – yet familiarity doesn’t really test you and being good at golf means always wanting to keep improving,” he says.
“I love playing the King Kamehameha course in Hawaii, and those in Britain are superb - Langland Bay near Swansea was recommended to me by Michael Douglas. It’s a links course that’s positioned between two bays, and the view out over the English Channel is something that needs to be seen to be believed.
“Then you have Sunningdale, that’s amazing. And I must say the only time I’ve ever been awestruck by a course –that happened to me at St Andrews. What a place that is. If ever there’s a trip offered to Scotland, I take it. There’s something magical about playing the old courses over there!”
It’s curious to see Cooper, as ageless as his music, struggling to hide a sense of giddiness when talking about his favourite sport. And far from a selfish pursuit, he marks the evolution of golf and its growing accessibility as something we can all feed into. “More people are getting into the game, and that’s great to see. Golf used to have this reputation of being a country-club sport, but now it’s more open to everyone. That’s a good thing.”
Cooper expressed this love for the sport in his 2007 book Golf Monster. “That was my gift back to the sport, and it was me saying, ‘Hey, come and read this book and be saved’. It was either going to be that or the Bible. If someone needs saving from the world, it’s the Bible; if someone needs saving from themselves, it’s Golf Monster,” he laughs.
“Golf is the one thing in life that’s given me clarity above everything else,” he says. “Sometimes when the fog descends you can struggle to find a way out, and the escapisms I’ve had in the past are perhaps not that good on your body or your soul. Golf, however, has a purity to it – it gives you that release, and there’s nothing bad about it. In fact, the only golf hangover I’ve ever had is a yearning to get back out there and do it all again.
“People think of me as the guy who wears makeup and sings about nightmares,” he says with a laugh. “But put a club in my hand, and I’m just another golfer trying to break 80. That’s the beauty of it—on the golf course, everyone’s just a player chasing that perfect shot.”
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STORY BEHIND THE PIC
LADDIE LUCAS | SANDY LODGE GOLF CLUB, HERFORDSHIRE | AUGUST 7, 1954
If you are looking to compile a list of unsung heroes of the pre- WWII amateur game, then there would be few people higher up the pecking order than Percy ‘Laddie’ Lucas.
Lucas was, quite literally, born into golf, having breathed his rst breath in the clubhouse at Prince’s Golf Club in Kent in 1915. Growing up on the Kent links, where his father served as the club secretary – having co-founded the club – the left- handed Lucas soon became a master of the links art.
After his father died in 1926, the family moved to Hertfordshire, where the 11-year-old Lucas became a junior member at Sandy Lodge. A schoolboy champion at 16, he made his name on the world stage when, aged just 19, he won the silver medal for the lowest amateur score in the 1935 Open Championship held at Muir eld.
After graduating from Cambridge, he worked as a sportswriter for the Sunday Express, where he stayed until the outbreak of war, when he volunteered for the RAF as a pilot. And it was Lucas’s intimate knowledge of Prince’s Golf Club’s subtle undulations that probably saved his life in August 1944, when his Spit re was hit by enemy re while coming home from a raid. Reluctant to bail out, he spotted Sandwich Bay at the same
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moment as his engine died. Gliding in, and keeping the clubhouse as a marker, he managed to miss the second, fourth, 12th, eighth and ninth fairways before landing belly-up out of bounds just short of the River Store.
Typical of the man, he recalled being very unhappy at the state of the greens and joked about his continuing inability to hit the ninth fairway.
After the war, Lucas captained the Great Britain & Ireland Walker Cup team in 1947 and 1949, before turning his hand to politics, serving as the Conservative MP for Brentford and Chiswick from 1950-59. Becoming disillusioned with government, he moved into sports administration, working rstly for the Greyhound Association at White City, and then with the Sports Council.
He took early retirement in 1975, and began writing again, completing a compelling autobiography, Five-Up, and The Sport of Princes (Re ections of a Golfer). At the time of his death in 1998, aged 73, hewas vice-president of the Golf Foundation and the Association of Golf Writers.
The rather bizarre picture shows Lucas, then aged 39, playing the course at Sandy Lodge Golf Club wearing a blindfold. Despite this self-imposed handicap, he managed to shoot 87 with the aid of a guide – a score that most of us would be proud of with 20-20 vision.
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Prince’s Golf Club, where Lucas’s love a air with golf began, continues to honour the great man each year by hosting the Laddie Lucas Spoon, a competition open to juniors aged
between eight and 13, which takes place in April. It has proved the starting point for many a promising gol ng career; a legacy that is tting for someone who gave so much to the game.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
SIR NICK FALDO
The six-time Major champion talks to Matt Nicholson about his move to Montana, the future of golf course design, hosting the British Masters, and why short courses are the next big thing.
Sir Nick Faldo still has a lot on his plate. His playing days and long stints in the commentary booth with CBS may be behind him, but the man from Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire has more than enough going on to keep him occupied.
On quiet days he’ll take the dogs for a long walk, and he’ll be very content. However, when he’s busy, he’s busy. Moving to the mountains in Montana to build a farm has been one project, but he has lots of others on the go.
For starters, there’s the design business. As well as an exciting new layout in Madeira, the six-time Major winner, who has designed awardwinning golf courses on ve continents and in 20 di erent countries, is behind several short course projects in America and in the UK.
He’s also the host of this year’s British Masters at The Belfry on 28 August-1 September. He might be busy, and there might be times when the dogs miss their master, but, as he tells us, he wouldn’t have it any other way…
Why did you decide to up sticks and move to Montana?
After Covid, we were about to build on Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Then we thought we wanted to get away from the hustle and bustle. We’d visited Montana a few times. I used to go up there and sh with Huey Lewis. I had a project that was almost on the Canadian border, Wilderness Club. We went there for a couple of summers with the dogs and loved it. We thought, ‘Why don’t we build ourselves a farm?’ That’s how it all started.
Do you enjoy the slower pace of life? It’s nice for me, on some days, to just go, ‘What have I got to do?’ My only priority might be to go and walk the dogs. That’s nice, because when I’m busy, I’m busy. We’ve also got more involved with the community. I’m an ambassador for a great club called Crazy Mountain over Livingston way. I love it over that side. That’s the old Marlboro cigarette ranch. We’ve got our own - they call it town. We’ve got a genuine cowboy town, with the saloon, the jailhouse, the re station, the brothel. It’s very cool. It’s genuine - over a 100-year-old wooden building. We’re amongst 3,000 acres of gorgeous mountains. You’ve got rivers, you’ve got golf. Everyone enjoys the good things in life, which is nice.
What’s your design philosophy?
I’ve got a good eye and a good strategy - that was the way I played. I’ve seen all the great golf courses, and I’ve got a very good photographic memory. I can visualise the [Alister] Mackenzie’s and the George Thomas’s. I love Colts and, in modern day, Pete Dye. You look at those and go, ‘Would I do that?’ That sort of thing - or you might be inspired by it.
I’m a big fan of trying to make it t as naturally as possible.
How much of a challenge is that?
It’s tough sometimes. In Cambodia, for example, we had a thousand acres with four feet of movement. You’ve got to do a lot of dreaming and a lot of pumping sand. Or we get the opposite. In Vietnam, we had to blow up rock
to create golf holes. You’ve got to have a good engineer who can understand it. You can get all this dirt and rock. Where do you push it all? Or where do you get it all when it’s at? It’s really an engineering feat. Luckily, I’ve got smart people who know how to do that!
Tell us about your new project in Madeira… Madeira is one that we’re very excited about, what with the views in this little corner of the island. It’s very undulating. We’re going to make a lovely golf course with a little boutique hotel, about 100 rooms, so not huge.
I HAD A PROJECT THAT WAS ALMOST ON THE CANADIAN BORDER, WILDERNESS CLUB. WE WENT THERE FOR A COUPLE OF SUMMERS WITH THE DOGS AND LOVED IT. WE THOUGHT, ‘WHY DON’T WE BUILD OURSELVES A FARM?’ THAT’S HOW IT ALL STARTED.
Are there any speci c projects you’re particularly fond of?
Laguna in Vietnam is a great site because of its variety. I guess the ultimate is to have as much variety as you can. Here, you start o through meadowlands, then rice elds, a bit of jungle, beach, down the river, through the rocks, back in the jungle, and then you nish the last four or ve holes with huge blowouts of sand. You get a little bit of everything, which is very cool. We always consider the history of the site. Putting something in is a bit of a trademark. For example, in Cambodia we’ve got buddhas and temples, a miniature scaled-down version of Angkor Wat on the golf course. We were inspired by that. This is the fun bit.
I always enjoy having no preconceived ideas when I go to a golf course, because you want to be inspired by what’s there. I think that’s important. We’ve got a few other ideas up our sleeve. It’s going to be fun. The design business is going very well.
What are some key trends you’re seeing in the golf course design industry?
The blowout look on bunkers is something they’re going heavily on. They can look fabulous, but for the average golfer who goes left and right, you’re making life more di cult. If they hit a poor shot, they’re going to leave themselves 60-yard bunker shots all day long. There’s a ne balance between building a resort golf course and a pro golf course. That’s something we’re always mindful of.
How has the evolution of golf equipment impacted your designs?
Distance has exploded over the last ten years. The best example is Firestone, which we used to play in the World Series. We would be hitting 2-, 3- and 4-irons into the par 4s. The 9th was a good drive, and you’d end up on the top of the hill. You’d have a 2-iron into this little green that was 210 yards out. Now they smash it over the hill and have a gap wedge.
I’d come back and tell my architects. It used to be 300 yards through the air - that was impressive. Then it went to 320. Now we’ve got quite a few guys who can do 340 through the air. When you design, you start thinking, ‘Where’s the golf ball going to end up?’ Making a strategy is very di cult. If a drive goes 340, and pros can hit 240 with their 4 -iron, that’s 580. It has changed the game dramatically for course design.
How much di erent has it been designing the new short course at Chart Hills?
I’m very proud of it. I’ve been beating this drum for years. So many hotels don’t have room. You say, how about 12, but they want a championship golf course. That drives me up the wall. People are recognising the fun playing short courses.
Building a 12 -hole golf course ticks all the environmental boxes: the water, construction costs, time. Time is the big thing now, where people must try and please everybody. You’ve got a family but you want to disappear and play some golf. Eighteen is a long day, so I’m really pushing the 12 -hole concept as much as I can.
Your six-hole ‘Loop’ at Chart Hills is proof that golf can be fun in a shorter format… Absolutely. I was able to draw inspiration from many of the great places and holes I’ve played at the likes of St Andrews, Muir eld Village, and Augusta. It’s a great challenge for golfers of all abilities. We have our very own ‘Valley of Sin’.
■ LEFT: SIR NICK LOVING LIFE ON THE FARM (PIC LINDSAY FALDO)
■ SIR NICK AND WIFE LINDSAY IN MONTANA
■ NICK WILL HOST THE BRITISH MASTERS ONCE AGAIN AT THE BELFRY IN AUGUST
It’s fantastic, unique. I think golf courses of this nature are only going to get more popular, and what we have at Chart Hills is very special. I’d encourage anyone to go and play it.
Are you working on other short course projects?
We’ve got a great project up at Big Sky. We’d like to do six holes for kids, and we’d like to do a nine-hole par-3 course. Hopefully we can cart that one because you’re at 8,000 feet plus! Then maybe there’s a 12-hole course which could be serious. It’s quite a challenging project, but I think it could be ground breaking.
We’ve also got a little company I’m forming with Paul Jansen and my architects called ‘Golf in Small Spaces’. People love to have anything from a single green in their back garden all the way up to three, five, ten, 30 acres. As we’ve seen, the popularity of them is fantastic.
The skill is to design where, if you’re brand new to golf you can roll it along the ground, and if you’re a decent golfer you can cut the corners and getting the ball to stop is a great challenge. So I’m very excited about trying to build that side of golf.
What was it like to take on the role of host for the British Masters?
IT’S ALWAYS A GREAT CHALLENGE TO PLAY THE BELFRY, ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU GET A LITTLE BIT OF WEATHER, A LITTLE BIT OF WIND IN THERE, AND THEN THE TRICKY FINISH. IT’S ALWAYS GOING TO GET A GREAT CHAMPION.
What’s been the most rewarding part?
It’s a nice honour since I won that one. It’s something America has done so well over the years, with celebrities and the likes of Arnold [Palmer], Jack [Nicklaus] and Tiger [Woods]. I think our tour should do more of that. Seve would be a great one to honour, and probably Rory in the future.
All I’m trying to do is build awareness of the event, make it more British. I think that’s a fun thing. I’ve requested that all the music to be played should be British bands. There should be no problem with a playlist on that! Little touches like that.
Well I’m not playing. I’m there all week. I’m quite happy to give it time, get it to grow as best as I can and make the fan experience as good as possible. I’ve got some great ideas for the fans’ village. So we will see how we can just keep expanding it. I have my own pavilion, which is very cool, wonderful food. I love hosting people up there.
What do you think makes the British Masters stand out from other tournaments on the DP World Tour calendar?
The Belfry has a great central location. We can get good fans and create a very good
atmosphere. As I said, we can make it as British as possible. We have a good date, and in the future, we can encourage a few more top names to come and play. It’s always a great challenge to play The Belfry, especially when you get a little bit of weather, a little bit of wind in there, and then the tricky finish. It’s always going to get a great champion.
The Faldo Series is also still going strong… Well, that week we also host our Faldo Futures event. We have our grand final, which was a great success the first year. We had about 1,600 participants, which was whittled down to about 120 youngsters. They loved it. We want to expand that, make that bigger and better.
■ NICK FALDO POSES WITH MCILROY AFTER HE WON THE U15 BOYS CATEGORY AT THE 2004 FALDO SERIES
■ NICK WITH THE GREEN-KEEPING TEAM AT CHART HILLS
CLUTCH PRO TOUR EXPANDS WITH MOROCCO PARTNERSHIP FOR 2025 SEASON
With a prize fund exceeding £1M, the new season marks a major milestone for the Clutch Pro Tour as it expands internationally. Teaming up with Morocco as an O cial Tourism Partner, the tour introduces new events and greater opportunities, bringing more exposure for both players and fans
The Clutch Pro Tour has announced a landmark partnership with Visit Morocco, designating the country’s tourism brand as the O cial Tourism Partner for the 2025 season. This collaboration underscores the rapid growth of the tour, positioning Morocco as a premier gol ng destination and adding new international events to the Clutch Pro Tour schedule.
Since its formation in 2019, the Clutch Pro Tour has quickly established itself as one of the leading development platforms in world golf, earning O cial World Golf Ranking (OWGR) accreditation and becoming an O cial Satellite Tour to The Hotel Planner & DP World Tour, with the Top 3 on the Order of Merit graduating with Full Cards to the Hotel Planner Tour (formerly Challenge Tour).
– Heythrop Park, Brocket Hall, South Sta s, and Hever Castle—will heighten the spotlight on Morocco’s appeal as a golf destination. Each event will carry the name of a Moroccan city—Tangier, Rabat, Marrakech, and Agadir—bringing further exposure to Morocco’s gol ng heritage and tourism o erings.
In addition to promoting Morocco’s gol ng landscape, the series introduces increased incentives for players, including £140,000 in prize money and exclusive invitations to Moroccan events in 2026. The top male and female players will receive two free invites into Moroccan Clutch Pro Tour events, while the leading player in the series will earn quali cation and an invite into The Dutch Future’s 2026.
for the 2025 season, re ecting the growth and development of the tour product. To represent Morocco and The Kingdom of Light this year is something that the entire team is looking forward to, and we can’t wait for the partnership to get underway.”
With more events planned in Morocco for 2026 and beyond, the partnership with Visit Morocco represents a long-term commitment to growing the game of golf and promoting Morocco as a premier international destination. The Clutch Pro Tour’s continued expansion into global markets further cements its status as a vital proving ground for the next generation of professional golfers.
The Clutch Pro Tour has steadily built a reputation as the premier stepping stone for aspiring professionals, bridging the gap between amateur competition and elite-level golf. With a strong track record of developing future stars, the tour has witnessed an increasing number of its alumni progressing to highertier tours, including the Challenge Tour and DP World Tour.
Over the years, the tour has expanded its tournament schedule, prize fund, and player development programs, o ering invaluable competitive experience to rising talents. The introduction of the Morocco: Kingdom of Light Series and the International Series events re ects Clutch Pro Tour’s ongoing commitment to providing players with opportunities on diverse and challenging courses, ultimately preparing them for the demands of the global professional circuit.
The partnership will be two agship tournaments in Morocco as part of the Clutch Pro Tour’s International Series. In 2025, these events will be staged at Al Houara Golf Club in Tangier, a course ranked as the fth-best in Africa and second in Morocco. The selection of Al Houara re ects the country’s growing reputation as a world-class golf destination, with major golf architects such as Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones, Gary Player, and Colin Montgomerie contributing to course designs across Morocco.
The tour, provides over 34 invites into the Hotel Planner Tour and is set to o er the largest development tour prize fund of £100,000 at the Tour Championship.
The new Morocco: Kingdom of Light series will agship the partnership, but along with this series The Clutch Pro Tour will also host two of its international series events at the highly ranked Al Houara Golf Resort in Tangier, Morocco. This fourevent series, hosted at prestigious UK venues
Meryem Bennouna, Head of Visit Morocco UK, emphasized the signi cance of the collaboration, stating, “Partnering with Clutch Pro for the Kingdom of Morocco Golf Series will raise awareness of Morocco as a premier golf destination among golfers from the UK, Republic of Ireland, and beyond. With nearly 45 diverse golf courses—coastal, desert, and forest layouts—Morocco o ers year-round sunshine and is just a short ight away. This partnership, spanning nearly 30 tournaments, will put Morocco on the radar of more golfers looking for their next destination.”
Clutch Pro Tour CEO Tom Hayward echoed this enthusiasm, saying, “We are pleased and incredibly proud to announce this partnership with Visit Morocco for the 2025 season. This partnership is one of many new agreements
The 2025 season promises to be one of the most exciting in the tour’s history, with a schedule that spans multiple countries and brings increased exposure to players competing at the highest level. By partnering with Visit Morocco, the Clutch Pro Tour aims to not only enhance the playing experience for its members but also showcase Morocco’s world-class golf facilities to a broader international audience. This collaboration highlights the tour’s ambition to foster emerging talent while celebrating some of the most stunning golf destinations in the world. For further details visit clutchprotour.co.uk
■ BROCKET HALL WILL HOST ONE OF THE MOROCCO KINGDOM OF LIGHT SERIES
■ HEVER CASTLE GOLF CLUB
DAN BRADBURY’S TOUR DIARY
Two-time DP World Tour winner DAN BRADBURY kicks o his exclusive new column in Golf News by re ecting on his fast start since joining the pro game in 2022 and assessing his performances in the early part of the new season
Winning so early in my career was both a blessing and a curse.
Shortly after I turned pro in 2022, I won the Joburg Open in my third start on the DP World Tour. I was playing on an invitation and had only recently started out on the Challenge Tour, so to suddenly nd myself winning a top tier event and getting a DP World Tour card was beyond my wildest dreams.
In some ways, winning that early can give you a false sense of what professional golf is about. Some guys spend years grinding on the Challenge Tour before they get their break, honing their craft and getting used to the lifestyle. But I felt like I was ready. Five years of playing college golf in the US gave me plenty of experience, and while I was technically a rookie, I didn’t feel like one.
My rst tour invite was at Hillside for the Cazoo Classic in 2022, and that was a reality check — I felt like a rabbit in the headlights. But my second start, in Madrid, was much better. I nished 13th and walked away knowing I’d played solid golf but still left shots out there. That was a big con dence boost heading into the Joburg Open. I realised I wasn’t just there to make up the numbers – I could actually compete.
One of the biggest adjustments from playing amateur to professional golf is playing for money. Most pros will tell you they don’t think about it much — they’re just focused on the next shot. I’d say, for the most part, that’s true for me as well. But there have been spells where I’ve worried too much about money. Winning early helped alleviate that pressure. It allowed me to step back and think, ‘I’m set for the year. I don’t need to stress about the money – I just need to play well.’
My second win came at the Open de France in Paris last October. Up until that point my season had been a bit a struggle, with a lot of missed cuts and a general lack of consistency. I felt that my season turned around at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth in September. I had made some signi cant changes in the summer – including getting a new caddie – and while I felt like I had turned a corner, the results weren’t re ecting that yet. Making the cut at Wentworth and then having a great nal round was a huge con dence boost. I took that momentum into the next few weeks, and not long after I got the win in France. That moment meant a lot — not just as a validation of my form, but as a reassurance that I was making the right choices with my game.
My new caddie, Asa Phillips, has been a great addition. We knew each other from the Clutch Pro Tour, and I liked the way he worked. The fact that he’s a good player himself is important to me. He reads greens exceptionally well and holds me accountable – two things I was really looking for in a caddie.
MOVING THE GOALPOSTS
My immediate goal for this season is to improve my ranking from last year – I nished 36th in the Race to Dubai in 2023, then 30th last year. Getting a PGA Tour card is the obvious next step for me, and another win would certainly help. It’s di cult to improve in the Race to Dubai standings without winning.
My consistency is also something I want to work on. Last year I missed 13 or 14 cuts, but nine of those were by a single shot. That stat
alone tells me my game is better than my results suggest.
This season has been something of a mixed bag so far. Eight tournaments in, I’ve missed more cuts than I’ve made and although I’ve played some solid golf, I’ve made a couple of mental mistakes at the wrong times and that has really cost me. It’s small margins out here that can make a big di erence. I missed the cut at the Alfred Dunhill, Ras Al Khaimah, and the JoBurg Open by just one shot, and I was only two out in Qatar, so while it’s hugely frustrating, Bahrain was a solid week – I nished inside the top 30, felt good about my game, and saw progress. Qatar, however, was a disappointment. I went in with plenty of con dence, felt the course suited me, but just didn’t execute. My putting let me down, and in this game, if you’re not sinking putts, you’re not scoring. I played with Dan Brown, who went on to have a great week, and I didn’t feel like I was doing much di erently, but after 36 holes he was nearly 10 shots ahead of me. The di erence? He made the putts, and I didn’t. That’s the ne line in professional golf. One of the biggest adjustments to playing on the DP World Tour has been dealing with
DAN’S EQUIPMENT SET UP
Driver: Ping G440 LST (9°)
Fairway Woods: Ping G440 3, 5
Irons: Ping Blueprint S (4-PW)
Wedges: Ping S159 (50°, 56°, 60°)
Putter: Ping PLD
Custom Oslo XL
Ball: Titleist Pro V1x
Apparel: Ping Shoes: Nike
DAN BRADBURY FACT FILE
Age: 25
Lives: Wake eld, Yorkshire Turned Pro: 2022 World Ranking: 189
Race to Dubai Ranking: 30 (2024)
DP World Tour Starts: 67 Wins: 2 (‘22
JoBurg Open, ‘24 Open de France) Top 10s: 8 Cuts Made: 37 Prize Money: €1.97m
di erent conditions that we face week to week. For example, the greens at the Dubai Desert Classic were running at 12.5, while in Ras Al Khaimah they were closer to 10.5. That doesn’t happen on the PGA Tour, where the greens are consistent week in, week out. Rough conditions also vary massively — from dense jungle-like rough one week to wispy, patchy rough the next. Learning how to adjust to these variations is an important skill.
Course-wise, I’ve had good results at places like Houghton in South Africa, where I won and then nished third last year. It’s similar to Wake eld, my home club back in Yorkshire where I grew up – tight, short, with sloped greens. Generally, I feel like I have the game to compete on any course. If you’re on tour, you should be able to adapt to any conditions.
EQUIPMENT UPGRADES
Equipment-wise, I made a few changes over the last couple of months. During the o -season I put the new Ping G440 driver and 3-wood in the bag, which have been great additions. I’m getting a bit of extra distance with the driver, with a slightly lower spin rate.
More recently I swapped out my 3-iron for a Ping G440 5-wood. It’s the rst time I’ve made a
real set-up change in my bag. A 3-iron is great o the tee, but a 5-wood is much better into greens, giving me extra height and stopping power. I went with the new Ping G440 with a shorter shaft, and I think it’ll come in handy down the line.
One of the major changes I made last year in terms of my equipment was switching to a long putter. I’d been struggling with my putting –especially from inside 20 feet. I was statistically one of the worst putters on tour. I sat down with Phil Kenyon and Mike Kanski after The Open, and they both encouraged me to try a broomhandle. Phil said, ‘If it helps you putt better, will you use it?’ I said, ‘Of course.’ He told me I’d know within 24 hours if I could make the switch, and he was right. I got a Ping Oslo XL and took it straight to the practice green. It felt strange at rst, but it was e ective. Statistically, I gained about a shot per round after switching, which is a huge improvement at this level.
LOCAL SUPPORT
In addition to being supported by Ping, and managed by Octagon Golf, I have a great group of sponsors who have helped me to get to where I am today, including MASHIE Golf, Eurocams, the LPW Group, and The Chambers Hotel in Leeds. I’m so grateful for their continued support.
I’m attached to Wake eld Golf Club in Yorkshire, where I have been a member since I was eight. They’ve very generously made me an honorary member there now, and it’s always nice to come back and catch up with the members and old friends.
I’ve been coached by Steve Robinson over at Sandburn Hall in York since I was about 13 or 14. He coached me when I played for Yorkshire Boys and I can always trust him to sort out any issues I might be having with my swing.
On tour, I tend to stick with the Yorkshire lads – Sam Bairstow, Dan Brown, Josh Berry, and Ben Schmidt. It’s nice having a group to practice with and go to dinner with. When I was new to the tour, I got along well with guys like James Morrison and Jamie Donaldson, who were always happy to chat and o er little bits of advice, and I’m happy to do the same for the guys like Ben who are coming through. British players tend to look out for each other, although it’s also important to remember that we are rivals!
DOING MY HOMEWORK
Scheduling-wise, I’m planning to play a similar number of events this season as I did last year, around 27-28, but I’m going to take some time o in April — about six weeks – to work on my game at home – and will return to the tour in May for the Turkish Airlines Open. When you only have two or three weeks o at a time, there’s little opportunity for serious practice. You’re either preparing for an event or recovering from one. I want time to really work on my game, the way I could in amateur golf during the winter. Since turning pro, I’ve mostly been maintaining my game rather than making real improvements. This break will give me a chance to focus on that. With such a long season, taking breaks are as much about resetting mentally as they are about physical preparation, but they are needed.
A ROSY LOOKING FUTURE
He may have been earmarked as a Ryder Cup captain for the 2027 contest, but JUSTIN ROSE’S hunger for personal success also remains as strong as ever. And as he proved last year, he still has the game to compete for the biggest titles… Words Michael Weston
Photography Getty Images /TGL
This will make you feel old: it’s nearly 27 years since Justin Rose played that shot on the 18th hole at Royal Birkdale. Short sighted in the rough, with a nasty pot bunker in front of him, the 17-year-old amateur, seemingly oblivious to the incredible situation he found himself in, executed the perfect pitch. As the ball trickled into the cup, the noise was deafening. Grinning from ear to ear, arms outstretched in that baggy red sweater, the Silver Medal winner soaked up every last bit of applause. Tied fourth at the 127th Open - not a bad way to start your career.
In the years since, Rose has accumulated quite the CV, as that crazy week on Merseyside back in 1998 suggested he would. Top of the list would be the US Open that he won in such gutsy fashion at Merion in 2013; he’s also won two World Golf Championships and an Olympic gold medal. As for the Ryder Cup, whenever his time as a player comes to an end and he takes on the role of captain, which is all but guaranteed, he’ll be remembered as a man for the big moments, a proper team player who could be relied upon under the greatest of pressure.
Rose will turn 45 in July. It’s the kind of age when some players start to tinker and experiment with long putters, and then gradually disappear from the spotlight. Rose doesn’t plan on being one of these players. If there’s one 40-something who’s still more than capable of landing one of the game’s four most coveted titles, it’s ‘Rosie’.
“I believe that with a little more attention on detail this year, there is still some good golf ahead of me,” says Rose, who nished tied second at The Open last year, just two shots behind eventual champion, Xander Schau ele. Golf at the very highest level might be a young man’s game, but Rose isn’t done yet. In fact, the former World No.1 is just as competitive now as he was a quarter of a century ago, perhaps even more so.
It’s one of the reasons why we’re seeing him compete in TGL, the technology-led indoor golf league developed by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, in which he represents Los Angeles Golf Club. And it’s one of the reasons why he captained Great Britain & Ireland against Continental Europe in the 2025 Team Cup in Abu Dhabi at the start of the year. He still loves winning - and he’s not done yet.
Despite his thirst for more individual honours, the number one goal for Rose this year is to make the Ryder Cup team. He’s played in six already, winning four of those contests, although quali cation for Rome in 2023 came courtesy of a captain’s pick. He doesn’t want to have to rely on Luke Donald to do the same again this year.
“That’s obviously a big focus going forward for me, to be a part of that team again,” says Rose, who justi ed his pick with one-and-ahalf points from his three matches and, as the elder statesman, was a calming in uence for an inexperienced European team. “They don’t get any easier to make, obviously. You always want to be a part of that team front and centre.”
You get a sense that nothing gives Rose more pleasure than team glory. We’ve seen many passionate st pumps from the a able Rose over the years, but those high ves and hugs have always looked more animated when he’s been wearing the famous yellow and blue.
When you’ve had a taste of it, you want more - most players will tell you that. And Rose, who made his Ryder Cup debut in 2008, is desperate
to stay part of the group, an exciting young team that has emerged since the likes of Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter and Sergio Garcia left the scene.
“I’ve got to be honest, when I watched the Whistling Straits Ryder Cup, I looked at it with a bit of a bleak long-term view of how Europe might do in the Ryder Cup,” says Rose, referring to the humbling 19-9 loss Europe su ered in America in 2021, before highlighting the promise a number of players have shown on the PGA Tour as a reason to be optimistic about an away victory this September.
“How comfortable they’ve all looked playing in the States, I think could serve the Ryder Cup team really, really well in the future,” he adds. “Guys like Aaron Rai, Bob Mac [Robert MacIntyre], so that transition of them being comfortable stateside I think is going to be valuable and powerful for the team. I’m a lot more buoyant in terms of the opportunity that the team has going forward.”
If Rose’s appointment as GB&I captain for the Team Cup in January was a dress rehearsal for the Ryder Cup, he passed the audition with ying colours. Rose’s troops gave Francesco Molinari’s Continental Europeans a hiding, winning 17-8.
Before, during and after, the playing captain spoke very much like a Ryder Cup skipper; he talked about the importance of preparation, of team unity and playing for each other. He ticks every box.
Whether or not he takes the reins for the 2027 showdown at Adare Manor in County Limerick remains to be seen. For now, Rose’s focus remains on this year’s contest, which means taking care of his own business. If his early season form is anything to go by, he has every reason to be con dent of not just making the Ryder Cup for this September’s clash at Bethpage Black in New York, but winning on tour for the rst time since the 2023 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. He’s already into double gures on both sides of the Atlantic.
Tied third at the same event in February was followed by another top-10 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Although, at the time of writing, he’s missed three cuts, which included a weekend o at The Players Championship, perhaps this streaky form is something to be expected from a player who’s only ve years o being eligible to play on the PGA Champions Tour.
Turning 50 is a good way o . At the moment, Rose - who has been a world’s top 50 player every year since 2010 with the exception of 2022 - is still mixing it up with the best players in the world on tour and alongside TGL teammates Collin Morikawa,
I’VE PUT A LOT OF TIME, EFFORT AND RESOURCES INTO MY HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Sahith Threegala and Tommy Fleetwood.
Part of the vision behind TGL, which is played on a giant simulator in a stadium full of fans, is to expand golf’s appeal beyond its traditional audience. Even if it’s meant coming “totally out of our comfort zone”, Rose has been enjoying the challenge. He might be the model team player, but he’s also hoping the experience of playing this very di erent format will bene t his own game in the long term.
“I’m very much a guy on the golf course… it’s ‘quiet, please’, ‘stand still, please’, ‘what are you doing moving over there?’ ‘You rustling your crisp packet?’’Chill out, man, I’m trying to hit a golf shot!’ For me, this was very, very di erent,” he says of TGL.
“I think for me it’s going to be good for me to deal with this. As crazy as it may sound, having these experiences early in the season, I think can simulate playing under pressure in other tournaments down the stretch. For me, I really enjoyed it.”
Rose fans will certainly be hoping for him to contest a few more Major Championships down the stretch. Despite his very long list of achievements, it feels as though he’s one or two ‘big ones’ light. Rose has twice nished second in both the Masters (2015, ‘17) and The Open (2018, ‘14); he also nished third at the PGA Championship in 2013.
“I’ve put a lot of time and e ort and resources into my health and wellness,” he said after narrowly losing out to Schau ele on the nal day at Royal Troon last July.
“Hopefully I can stretch that out. Still hungry for it.”
The runner-up nish in The Open last and a top-10 at the PGA Championship have given Rose more motivation than ever.
If there was any doubt as to whether he still had the game to compete at the very highest level, they were erased last year. In fact, some life changes might even start to work in his favour.
“I would say life’s been harder for sure the last ve, six years in terms of parenting and kids getting older,” the father of two added after his e orts to land the Claret Jug saw him come up just short. “They’re less mobile. They can’t travel as much. There’re more demands on us as a family.
“I have a feeling we’re going to come through the other side where in the not-too-distant future it’s going to get easier where the kids don’t want to know you anymore. ‘Dad, crack on, do what you need to do’. I think I’m coming to a good stage of my career again.”
■ JUSTIN WON THE SILVER MEDAL AT ROYAL BIRKDALE AS A 17 YEAR-OLD
■ JUSTIN AND KATE ROSE ARE GIVING GREAT OPPORTUNITIES TO THE WOMEN’S GAME THROUGH THE ROSE LADIES SERIES
■ JUSTIN MADE FRONT PAGE NEWS WHEN WINNING THE 2013 US OPEN AT MERION
BUSH HILL PARK GOLF CLUB:
130 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE AND A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
As Bush Hill Park Golf Club celebrates its 130th year, it proudly reflects on its rich history while looking ahead to a bright and sustainable future.
estled within 100 acres of tranquil parkland, just a short walk from En eld town centre and a short drive from the M25, this historic club has been a welcoming home from home for golfers for over 130 years - and looks set to remain so for generations to come.
Beyond its stunning setting and impressive heritage, Bush Hill Park has earned a reputation for excellence, winning Golf Club of the Year ve times - a nod from England Golf plus four in the prestigious Club Mirror Awards. Despite its long history, the Club continues to evolve with a forward- thinking approach to sustainability and inclusivity.
The 18-hole course, designed by the legendary James Braid, may not be the longest at 5,776 yards, but its challenging layout ensures that golfers of all abilities must bring their best game. Narrow, tree-lined fairways, well- placed hazards, and a memorable closing stretch from holes 13 -18 - including water features on the par three 13th and par four 17th o er an enjoyable and strategic test for all players. With dedicated resources, the Club has reinforced its commitment to sustainability both on and o the course, and that golf can become a valued leader in sustainability.
In 2024, it became a proud signatory to the Sports for Nature Framework. One of a few golf clubs in the UK to join the initiative, which intends to tap sports’ enormous potential to take on ambitious goals and drive positive change, it further marks their commitment to join the global e ort to champion nature and contribute to its protection and restoration.
The Club’s sustainability goal for 2025 is to become GEO Certi ed. The process of attaining this accreditation aims to improve golf’s social and environmental contribution, and harness golf’s reach and in uence to drive wider awareness and behaviour change.
On the course, the elegant Old Park Mansion clubhouse, home to members since 1922, continues to provide rst- class facilities. Whether enjoying a drink on the spacious outdoor terrace overlooking the 18th green, dining in the restaurant, or attending one of the club’s many social events, members and guests can enjoy a vibrant, welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. The clubhouse also boasts modern function rooms, three bars, and stylishly designed social spaces, making it a fantastic venue for all occasions.
Bush Hill Park is proud to be a progressive and inclusive club, o ering a range of membership
To explore membership opportunities, teetime and golf day bookings, please call on 020 3146 9890, or email enquiries@ bhpgc.com or visit bhpgc.com
options to suit all golfers. The highly successful Women Driving Forward Programme has signi cantly increased female participation with 25% of the membership accounted for by women. The Programme has recently merged with the Bush Hill Park Academy that’s open to all newcomers to the game.
The Club is committed to enhancing the value of membership, with a strong focus on expanding member bene ts through a wellness-driven approach. This includes fostering community connections by o ering complimentary outdoor Stretch on the Green sessions in partnership with the local Nu eld Health branch, as well as exclusive rates at a nearby sports club. Additionally, members enjoy free Country Membership with MASHIE Golf. With a perfect balance of heritage, modernity, and sustainability, Bush Hill Park Golf Club continues to set the standard for what a great golf club should be. Its commitment to excellence ensures that it remains not just a place to play golf, but a true community for its members - one that will continue to thrive for many years to come.
Q&A
MICHAEL CAMPBELL
Interview Jack Martin
t’s 20 years since you won the US Open at Shinnecock Hills. Do you still look back and think, ‘Wow, I’m a major winner’?
“I can’t believe it is 20 years. It was unbelievable to beat Tiger Woods,one of the best players to ever play the game, in his prime. I’m remembered more for that than winning the US Open. It was one of those weeks where everything came together. It was like an out of body experience. It didn’t happen overnight. It was the culmination of years of hard work.”
Did you believe you had a chance of winning before the week began?
“Absolutely not. I was targeting the top 10. After three rounds I changed my goal to top three. Then during the last round I was leading and started aiming to win. I agree with Brooks Koepka when he says most of the eld don’t believe they can win a major. I didn’t but I was fortunate enough that everything came together one week.”
Did Tiger say anything to you after you won?
“I remember I walked to the locker room after winning. I was getting ready for the prize giving. I hear this toilet ushing and the cubicle door opening. Tiger walks out and is washing his face next to me. I said to him, ‘Well played, it was tough out there. I’m glad to be a major winner.’ He said back to me, ‘Yeah a bit of luck.’ I turned back to him and said, ‘It was more than luck, mate. It was skill and talent.’ We kind of just laughed it o and parted ways. However, after that, he turned up at the prize giving and congratulated me. That was an amazing gesture as normally the guy who nished second would never turn up at the winner’s circle.”
Golf Digest once published an article saying you were one of the most underwhelming US Open champions. Did that annoy you?
“It doesn’t bother me what they think. I have the US Open trophy in my home. I’ll always be a part of the US Open club. That’s more important to me. There’s only been something like 280 winners of a major championship. I don’t care what some guy writes in Golf Digest.”
What impact did your victory have in New Zealand?
“It was massive. When I won, I wanted to go home and share my success with my people. I wanted to inspire more kids to
play golf in New Zealand where rugby is the big thing. There was a massive parade for me in Wellington. 150,000 people turned up. The biggest since the Beatles came in the seventies.”
Was the attention you got too much?
“I’m a very shy guy. I didn’t like living in the shbowl. I took advantage of the attention by raising money for my charities. I got distracted and my golf game su ered. I wasn’t practicing or going to the gym. I felt like I had climbed Mount Everest. My goal was to win a major and show people Māori’s play golf. I go home now, and I see my community playing golf. I broke that mould.”
Do you have any regrets?
“Yes and no. Of course I’d love to be a multi major winner. But, look, I’m a US Open champion. I’ve had a great life. I’ve met wonderful people through golf. Rock stars, movie stars, presidents. It’s been an amazing rocket ride. Now I’m enjoying life in Spain and chilling out.”
When you retired in 2012, did you have enough by that point?
I was going through some personal problems with a divorce. I wanted to see
my kids growing up. When I was playing, I never saw them. They su ered during that time. I wasn’t playing well at that point either. So it was an easy decision. I really enjoyed my time away from golf for eight years.”
around 25 percent in their prime. Mine was two percent and I was considered to have had a good career. So I’m always telling these kids, ‘You’re not going win every week.’ It’s all about how you learn from your mistakes to get better.”
What’s the best thing about living in Spain?
“When I was playing on tour I used to live in Brighton. The cold weather just got to me after a while. It’s very relaxed here. There’s great food and wine. I’m two minutes from the beach. I don’t know if I’ll ever return to New Zealand. It’s crossed my mind. My family is there. But I love Spain.”
Many of the game’s historical courses are being stretched with the distance the modern golf ball travels. Where do you stand on the debate?
What was your favourite tournament and golf course on tour?
“For me, it was the Opens. I loved playing St Andrews, Muir eld and Troon. The reason I loved playing links golf so much was because I got to use my imagination more. If you’ve got 140 yards you can hit a wedge or a four iron. I’ve always been a wind player. I loved the challenge of it.”
What’s it like playing on the Staysure Tour?
“It’s great. I’m playing a few rounds of golf with mates I’ve known for 30 years. It’s very sociable. I just make sure to enjoy it. That’s what my life is about now. But I’m fully focused on my golf academy in Spain. I take great pride out of teaching kids about the game. I always wanted to give back to golf.”
What do you preach to the kids at your academy?
“That hard work is everything. I’ve always believed that. If you practice nine hours a day, you should do 10 hours. Push yourself. Resilience too. In this sport, you will fail more than you win. Tiger and Jack Nicklaus both had win percentages of
“It’s evolution. The kids now are stronger and can hit it so far. But it’s taken away the artistry of golf. I was lucky to be involved with three di erent generations of players in the 90s. They were phenomenal players. They used their imaginations as the ball moved so much. You had to think much more. The manufactures have made the game easier to play nowadays. Golfers are more athletes now rather than artists.”
Who was the best player you faced?
“Tiger was de nitely the best player I’ve played with. So ruthless. Seve was up there. But they are di erent players. Seve was more fun to watch. His crazy recovery shots and the charisma he carried was always entertaining.”
Where is the DP World Tour heading in relation to the emergence of LIV?
“LIV has caused a rift but it’s healthy for the game. The PGA Tour have bigger pots and so has the DP World Tour. All the guys on tour in Europe and America must be happy because they are playing for more money. I don’t get why there’s this big thing about Saudi investment in golf when it’s happening so much in other sports. Newcastle United, the boxing events, snooker tournaments all have Saudi involvement. The football World Cup will go there in 2030. Why is all the focus on golf?”
WALK THE TALK
The broadcaster and sports fanatic Dan Walker talks to Golf News about his love for the game, unforgettable moments on the course, and why The Belfry’s inaugural Classic Golf Day is set to be something special.
What sparked your love for golf, and how did you rst get into the game?
I have always loved sport - either playing it or watching it on TV. I loved watching Nick Faldo growing up, and I used to collect lost golf balls at Tilgate Park in Crawley and sell them to people on the 1st tee. My friends and I would pop down after school and squeeze in a few holes before it got dark.
What do you think makes The Belfry such an iconic destination for golf enthusiasts?
I have always loved the Belfry. It’s an amazing venue and everything about it is top class. The hotel and facilities and brilliant, the welcome is always warm but it’s the golf courses which really sing. The Brabazon has so much history and such a great challenge. I love it every time I play it.
Do you have a favourite memory or moment in golf, either playing yourself or watching as a fan?
I’ve got a few rattling around in there. I had a great moment last time I played the Brabazon in the British Masters Pro Am last year. I managed to drive the green in front of a big crowd and - I missed the eagle putt - but I did sink the one back for a birdie.
How important do you think charity events like this are for the golf community?
Golf has a great community around it and there is always a huge appetite to get together on days like this and raise money for some great causes. I hope the Belfry Classic is going to grow each year to become a memorable day which can have a real impact in fundraising and set the bar for top quality golf days.
Which professional golfers have inspired you the most over the years?
I’ve had the privilege of playing with some amazing pros over the years and have interviewed a lot of them too. I love watching them at close-quarters and you learn so much from watching the best in the world from such close quarters. Matt Fitzpatrick is from my home club in She eld and it was great to watch him win the US OPEN with that ludicrous bunker shot on the 18th.
What excites you the most about hosting the inaugural Belfry Classic Golf Day?
It’s exciting to be part of something from the start and we hope it can become something really special in years to come. It is a fantastic opportunity to bring together golf enthusiasts for an unforgettable experience at one of the sport’s most iconic venues.
What makes The Brabazon course stand out compared to other courses you’ve played or visited?
The Brabazon stands out because not only is it a brilliant course in top condition, but also it’s the fact that you’ve seen so many of the best players in the world produce so many amazing shots on the same holes. My mind always goes back to the four Ryder Cups - and it’s wonderful to be able to walk those fairways and hit shots into those memorable greens. It’s always special to tee it up on the Brabazon.
The lineup includes celebrities from sports, music, and TV – is there anyone you’re particularly excited to see teeing o ?
It’s just always nice to get a great mix of famous faces who love the game. The Belfry always attracts some brilliant names, and I look forward to catching up with them on the day.
What can participants and guests look forward to, both on and o the course, during the event?
A top golf course, great food, brilliant company, amazing prizes and just an unforgettable day! The day will feature an all-day BBQ, live entertainment, drinks receptions, a special
GOLF HAS A GREAT COMMUNITY AROUND IT AND THERE IS ALWAYS A HUGE APPETITE TO GET TOGETHER ON DAYS LIKE THIS AND RAISE MONEY FOR SOME GREAT CAUSES.
gala dinner, and a live auction. As The Belfry’s rst-ever Classic Golf Day, it will be a fantastic celebration of the sport, setting a new benchmark for unforgettable gol ng experiences.
How does it feel to be part of an event that supports such meaningful causes like the MND Association and Hospitality Action?
Hosting and playing in charity sports events is always wonderful but I’m always interested in where the money goes. I worked on a few events with Rob Burrow and his family raising money for the MND Association, so I know what amazing work they do and I’m looking forward to meeting the team from Hospitality Action too.
■ THE BELFRY CLASSIC GOLF DAY WILL BE PLAYED OVER THE FAMOUS BRABAZON COURSE
The Belfry Classic Golf Day hosted by Dan Walker is taking place on Thursday May 22 For further information visit www.thebelfry.com
SUZANN TEES UP NEW ERA
Golf legend turned businesswoman Suzann Pettersen is redefining talent management with an athlete-first approach. In an exclusive interview with Golf News, she shares how she is championing women’s sports and ensuring every player’s story is heard
WWhat inspired you to create this athleterst talent management group?
Throughout my career, I have always considered what impact I could have. While I couldn’t be prouder of my performances on the course, I wanted to be able to do more and help push my sport and all sports forward.
Competing at the highest level requires incredible focus, and I know rst-hand the importance of a trusted support network and that’s what I want to provide. I also know the competition there is outside of sport and how individual voices can sometimes struggle to break through.
VOXA’s name comes from the Latin word for “voice.” How does this re ect the mission and values of your company?
Our mission is to ensure that every athlete’s unique story is heard, celebrated, and carried forward to create a lasting and enduring legacy.
Women’s sport has historically been on the back foot when compared to the men’s game and this is no di erent when it comes to golf. Still to this day, whether it be at the elite levels of the game or local golf clubs, the voices of women are still not given the platform they deserve.
We’ve proven ourselves to be good enough to hold our space in the world of sport, but we still need more champions for the women’s game. VOXA exists to ensure that everyone in our family’s voice is heard and respected. Knowing that you have a safe space to be listened to is an incredibly powerful thing for women in male-dominated spaces.
Gaby is the number one player in Mexico and was named the best Latin American player of the decade. It was a no-brainer to bring her into the fold, I have so many fond memories with Gaby, and I can’t wait to see what opportunities we can build together in the future.
Shannon Tan is a history-maker for Singaporean golf, from winning on her LET debut to becoming the country’s rst women’s golfer to make a Major cut. Her career has only just started and she’s already making history in the sport.
Ashley Lau is a rising star in Malaysian golf, with a breakthrough win at the Vic Open and a Paris 2024 Olympic appearance. Her rapid rise and fearless play make her an exciting addition to our team to cement our presence with ve national number ones.
As a former player, how did your own experiences on tour in uence the way you structured VOXA? Were there challenges you faced that you hope to solve for today’s athletes?
My hope is that by launching VOXA, we will bring a new option for athletes when they are looking for support in their careers. One that has all the tools of more established agencies, but that focuses on them as individuals and works as a unit to make sure that everyone can reach their goals, both in their sport and outside now and in the future.
leadership experience prepared you for this new role as a business leader?
Leading Europe in the Solheim Cup was an invaluable experience that shaped my leadership philosophy. I learned how to bring together individuals with di erent strengths and personalities, how to build a cohesive team, and most importantly, how to inspire belief in a shared vision.
What lessons from the Solheim Cup, whether from team building, strategy, or mentorship, do you plan to bring to VOXA?
I’ve experienced both victory and defeat. Winning is an incredible high, but the true test of leadership comes in navigating setbacks. Those moments taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of leading with clarity and conviction, regardless of the outcome.
will be providing support that is in service of their voice
You’ve spoken about wanting to break the traditional talent representation model. In what ways will VOXA be di erent from existing sports management agencies? The main thing that di erentiates us is our focus on the individual. In my conversations with the players who have joined us, we talked just as much about their plans in golf as their plans afterward, and everything in between. I know a lot of these players personally and that element, along with my own experiences as a woman, means we will be providing support that is in service of their voice and their mission.
I’ve experienced rst-hand the di erence a good team around you can make to not only your performance but in wider life. For a lot of athletes, they can feel like they are a small cog of a big machine and seen as a commercial asset. We’re not here to be an agency like that. We exist to create a family where we genuinely care about all aspects of our team with open dialogue and a safe and supportive environment.
One of the most important takeaways is that when a team is equipped with the right tools, support, and trust, they develop a natural resilience and a shared belief in their mission. That’s something I plan to bring to VOXA, creating an environment where people feel empowered, prepared, and united in their pursuit of success.
Do you think there’s still a lack of visibility for female athletes, and if so, how do you plan to change that?
GOLF IS AN INDIVIDUAL SPORT, BUT IT TAKES A TEAM TO GET YOU ONTO THE FIRST TEE
You’re launching with ve incredible golfers, all No. 1s in their countries. How did you select these athletes, and what makes them the perfect ambassadors for VOXA?
What does success look like for VOXA in the next ve years? Do you plan to expand into other sports
these athletes, and what makes them the
Women’s sport is still playing catch up. We still aren’t a orded the same resources, funding, and exposure as men’s sports. Look at prize money, attendance, and media coverage. You can’t wipe the e ect of years and years of women’s sports being in the shadows overnight. But we’re very lucky to have seen a turning point in this in recent years. Women athletes are becoming household names, their faces are being plastered on billboards, and little kids or looking up to them.
beyond golf?
am
We’ve launched with ve incredibly talented players who are all number one in their respective country, all of whom, strive every time to be the best they can be on the course and o the course.
Former World No. 1 Ronni Yin is one of the most impressive talents on tour right now and a
Former World No. 1 Ronni Yin is one of the most impressive talents on tour right now and a young star very much on the rise. She is also such a fun and bubbly personality that I know will take our team dynamic to the next level, she would be a massive asset for anyone to work alongside.
I can’t help but want to continue to build something I am proud of and something that changes the way traditional talent management works for the better. We’re going to focus on how to use all the resources we have to create the ecosystem we want. I think we are very lucky that we are building this with incredibly talented people which means that we will continually learn and evolve our way of working to suit the needs of our family and women’s sport.
But this change takes continual work and commitment. Conscious decisions and strategic planning must be put in place to bring women’s sport on par with men’s. That’s one of the reasons why VOXA exists. To give women athletes more of a voice in how they are represented, and what they want their careers to look like. To take this to inform how we work and hear them to empower their choices.
What advice would you give to young female golfers who dream of turning professional but don’t know where to start in terms of sponsorship, branding, and career planning?
I don’t think it is too much to say that Carlota her standout performance at the Solheim Cup on home soil and of course, someone I have admired
While golf is my bread and butter and what we are currently focusing on, I’d love to use what I’ve learned in my sport and take that to other women’s sports. It’s such an exciting time to be within women’s sport, we’ve seen the rise of it in recent years and I can only imagine how this will continue in the years
learned in my sport and take that to other women’s imagine to come.
Find someone you trust to help you. Golf is an individual sport, but it takes a team to get you onto that rst tee. You can’t do it alone, but you must choose who you surround yourself with the best intentions.
If you could change one thing about the business of women’s golf today, what would it be?
I don’t think it is too much to say that Carlota Ciganda is a national treasure in Spain, following her standout performance at the Solheim Cup on home soil and of course, someone I have admired over the years. Having worked with her in a number of Solheim Cups, she is truly a force to be reckoned with and I think her 11 professional wins worldwide illustrate that.
reckoned with and I think her 11 professional
You’ve captained two Solheim Cup teams and led Europe to historic victories. How has that
has
I want it to take up more space. In golf but wider sports too. It’s time that women’s golf starts to become the rst thing people think about when it comes to the business of golf.
KINGS OF DISTANCE
THE LATEST DRIVERS REVIEWED
TRIED & TESTED
The latest Mizuno Irons
PRO SHOP
All the latest gear for the new season
PHOENIX DAYS & NIGHTS
Dan Owen visits PING HQ in Arizona
THE GEAR EFFECT
INSIDE THE BAGS OF RECENT WINNERS ON TOUR
Adrian Meronk
LIVGOLF Riyadh
Driver: Ping G430 Max 10.5°
3-Wood: Ping G425 Max 14.5°
Hybrid: Ping G430 19°
Irons: Ping iBlade (4i-PW)
Wedges: Titleist Vokey Design SM10 50°, 54°, 58
Pu er: Ping Vault 2.0 Ketsch
Joaquin Niemann
LIVGOLF Adelidae & LIVGOLF Singapore
Driver: PING G440 LST 10.5°
3-Wood: PING G440 Max 15°
7-Wood: PING G425 Max 20.5°
Hybrid: PING G430 26°
Irons: PING Blueprint S (5-PW)
Wedges: PING S159 52°, 56°, 60° PING PLD Anser Pu er
I don’t know about you, but I’m not getting any younger. The clubs I used when I was younger just don’t work for me anymore. And as a parent who doesn’t get to play as often as I’d like, I can’t rely on a small, forged blade. I need something with a bit of help, a little more forgiveness, a little more distance.
That’s where the new Mizuno JPX 925 Forged irons come in. They prove that you don’t have to use oversized gameimprovement irons to get performance and playability in a club that looks good at address. This is one of the most compact players’ distance irons on the market and being forged and they feel incredible.
Mizuno has completely changed the way they’ve constructed this latest JPX 925 Forged irons. The face and neck are a single piece forged from Chromoly 4120, with a second piece of metal welded onto the back. This has allowed Mizuno to mill the face with a Contour Ellipse face. Thinner faced than any previous forged iron from Mizuno, the innovative design has allowed the engineers to create an iron that is fast across the face.
Mizuno claims that by rethinking the construction, rather than simply re ning like they have with previous models, they’ve e ectively skipped eight generations or 16 years of
club improvement. While I can’t say the di erence is quite that dramatic, I can tell you that these irons feel excellent. Ball speeds are quick, and despite the compact head, there’s plenty of help on o -centre strikes.
One of my favourite features is the triple grind sole. It allows the club to play thinner through the turf while also o ering a bit of protection if you get steep into the ball, and getting out of the turf quicker. It’s a small detail, but one that will help better players transition into a slightly bigger clubhead.
In the 8-iron, 9-iron, and wedges, Mizuno has taken things even further by using a softer 1025E metal in a one-piece construction. The result? An even softer feel for approaches into the green, where forgiveness is less important.
Another standout feature is Mizuno’s extensive customisation options. They o er one of the largest selections of no-upcharge shafts, along with a huge range of grips, allowing you to ne-tune these irons to your exact preferences.
With so much great equipment released recently, it’s hard to pick favourites. But there’s a very real chance these irons will stay in the bag this year. £1,200, Mizunogolf.com
Are you the type of golfer who obsesses over the finer details of your gear? Do you know the difference between a Fujikura Ventus and a Mitsubishi Diamana? Do you have a preferred swing weight and a precise number of layers under your grip? Or are you a fan of Japanese forged golf clubs? If so, Nine by Nine Golf might be the perfect place to satisfy your needs. Nine by Nine Golf o ers an extensive selection of equipment from some of the biggest brands in golf, including Callaway, TaylorMade, Ping, Titleist, Mizuno, Cobra and Srixon. But beyond the mainstream names, they also stock some exceptional Japaneseforged clubs including Proto Concept, Fourteen and Miura, perfect for golfers looking for something truly unique. But more importantly a commitment to providing the very best advice and recommendations for their customers, backed up by their 4.9 rating on Trustpilot. What sets Nine by Nine Golf apart isn’t just their product range. They also have a fully equipped workshop for custom-built equipment, and all custom orders are built to your exact speci cations on site by their team of master craftsmen. Their selection of components is the most comprehensive in Europe and they o er Fujikura, Mitsubishi, KBS, True Temper, Nippon, Auto ex, Graphite Design, Golf Pride, Lamkin and Iomic plus many more.
For those who demand a precise custom tting, Nine by Nine’s Golf’s Chichester-based facility includes a fully equipped private and spacious custom t studio, complete with a Foresight GCQuad launch monitor. Lead tter Mark Ostrom is on hand to ne-tune every aspect of your setup, ensuring you walk away with the perfect clubs for your game.
If you’re serious about getting the most from your equipment, Nine by Nine Golf has everything you need to take your game to the next level. ninebyninegolf.com
GOLFSTREAM ROLLS OUT NEW GX TROLLEY RANGE
Golfstream , a leading player in the UK electric and push trolley market, is celebrating its 18th year in business with a comprehensive brand refresh and some fresh product updates.
The stylish rebrand introduces a re ned product lineup under the banner of the new GX Series, along with performance and design enhancements and an upgraded digital presence to better serve consumers and retailers alike.
As part of the brand transformation, Golfstream’s electric trolley range has been relaunched under the GX Series, o ering a clearer and more intuitive product di erentiation.
Golfstream’s well-established Blue, Vision, and Vision Brake electric trolley models will now be known as the GX1, GX3, and GX5, respectively. Each model has been upgraded with enhanced design and performance features, ensuring a superior gol ng experience.
Golfstream’s commitment to userfriendly innovation continues across all GX Series models. The trolleys feature an e ortless one-touch folding mechanism, making setup and storage quick and convenient. Their lightweight, compact design ensures they can be transported easily, folding down to be among the most space-e cient electric trolleys on the market.
Each model secures the bag using side arms rather than the traditional central spine, signi cantly reducing ‘bag wobble’ on uneven terrain. Additionally, all three trolleys come with a non-clogging front wheel and detachable main wheels, simplifying cleaning and maintenance.
Colour Customisation
Customisability is another hallmark of Golfstream trolley, with a variety of new colour schemes available, including yellow, blue, red, teal, and green. Golfstream also o ers a full range of accessories, such as umbrella holders, drink holders, GPS/phone holders, carry bags, and scorecard holders, to further enhance the gol ng experience.
Power & E ciency
All Golfstream trolleys are powered by an 18-hole lithium CaddyCell LifePO4 battery as standard, driving a 230V whisper-quiet motor that e ortlessly handles any terrain. For golfers seeking extended play time, a 36-hole battery option is available, ensuring uninterrupted performance across multiple rounds.
Golfstream’s new GX Series trolleys are now available to buy online at www.golfstream.co.uk and through select retailers and pro shops.
GX3
GX1
Evolving from Golfstream’s entry-level Blue trolley, the GX1 features a sleek new all-black design with blue accents. Enhancements include quick-release wheels with deep treaded tyres and specially designed pull handles on the bag-retaining straps.
RRP: From £379
Formerly the Golfstream Vision, the GX3 has been upgraded with a new all-black chassis featuring orange accents and an ergonomic handle. It now includes black quickrelease wheels with treaded tyres, a high-quality colour LCD screen with a protective cover, and purpose-designed pull handles. RRP: From £429
GX5
Building on the legacy of the Vision Brake EBS trolley, the GX5 boasts premium enhancements, including a redesigned full-colour LCD screen with improved graphics, a stylish all-black chassis with yellow accents, and the fastest one-click folding mechanism available. The GX5 also includes an electronic braking system, distance control with 0.5 speed increments, and quickrelease wheels with treaded tyres. RRP: From £529 release wheels with treaded
THE PING EXPERIENCE
Equipment Editor, Dan Owen Embarks on the Ultimate Golf Pilgrimage to PING’s Phoenix HQ, Where Engineering Genius, Unrivalled Craftsmanship, and GameChanging Technology come together
isiting PING’s Phoenix HQ is a golf nerd’s pilgrimage.
VUnlike the majority of the golf industry, which is focused in California, PING are based in the Arizona desert, and I believe being out of that bubble is one of the reasons why PING clubs are different from everything else on the market. Rather than being stuck in a golf-centric bubble, PING is an engineering company that solves problems. The solutions just tend to be, but not always, found in golf clubs.
PING HQ is also much more than a collection of buildings. It’s not just a campus. It’s home. It’s a science lab. It’s a proving ground. It’s a museum. And it’s a shrine. There is a sense of history pervading from PING HQ that you don’t get from other manufacturers. PING first opened their HQ in Phoenix in 1966, and while the campus has expanded greatly, some of it remains the same.
TIME CAPSULE
One thing that hasn’t changed a jot is Karsten Solheim’s office. The founder passed away in 2000, and the office has been left exactly as it was. While the rooms surrounding his office have been developed and evolved into the bag
and accessories creation studio, the office is untouched. Musty and of an even earlier era, pictures of Karsten with presidents are on the wall, and a selection of his putter designs is in the room. Karsten was an engineer, and the engineering philosophy still runs through the core of the still family-owned company.
My favourite part of the visit was the archive. While I’m a true believer in modern equipment being the best yet, as an ageing codger, I love looking through the old stuff. PING’s archives had a bunch of clubs I’d grown up with, and who doesn’t love seeing the Eye 2s, ZING and B60 putters, and even the 1A? But there were prototypes and clubs that never made it to market. The most interesting was a PING ZING square driver prototype that must have been from the early ’90s, at least ten years before Nike and Callaway came to market with a square driver.
ALL THAT GLITTERS IS GOLD
While they have engineers creating incredible technology to produce some of the most forgiving equipment in the game, PING also shows reverence for the history of the game.
PING’s gold vault is famous for its professional golf tournament-winning replica gold putters,
with names including Tiger Woods, Seve Ballesteros, Lee Westwood and Sir Nick Faldo represented in the heavily packed racking. Regular tour wins get you a gold-plated putter, while a major victory earns you a solid gold offering. The Doc 17 used by Suzann Pettersen to win the 2007 LPGA Championship must be the most valuable putter in the vault—at least in raw materials! And talking of Lee Westwood, he is the player with the most different winning models in the vault.
ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE
While the history of HQ was great, we were there to look at the future. PING’s G series is bi-annualy one of the most important launches in golf. The G440 is 100% the best version yet. PING creates new equipment by building on what has come before. They don’t just let the marketers give them a new direction, PING’s engineers build incrementally on the product that has come before. When you look at a PING G440 driver, you can see the similarities to the G430, but then, when you look closely, you can see how PING has furthered the design.
Take Turbulators as an example. PING knows they are Marmite and that there are a fair number of golfers out there who aren’t willing to try a PING driver because of them. But from an aerodynamic standpoint, PING have not found a way to better their performance with a driver, and they look good for around a one-milean-hour faster clubhead speed than a driver without them. That’s a trade-off PING is happy to accept for improved performance. They no longer feature on the fairway woods and hybrids because, with the smaller heads, they didn’t make a significant difference to clubhead speed. Other manufacturers had similar ideas to Turbulators but dropped them. PING’s engineering background doesn’t let them.
PING’s growth in tour driver usage in recent seasons from both staff and non-staff players
is proof in the pudding. The G430 series alone had 145 wins worldwide at the time of our trip to Phoenix. Every other driver in play on LIV has seemed to be a G430 LST over the last two years as players gravitate to what works when they don’t have equipment contracts, and 52 of those wins have come from non-staff players.
Some of the biggest changes to the clubs are ones you can’t see. One of the biggest issues with adjustable drivers is the adjustable hosel. The design inherently adds weight in the heel—somewhere that isn’t ideal for maximum performance. PING has got around this with a new free-hosel system, where the internal chamber is largely cut away. The adapter still connects the same way—it’s just had a bunch of weight removed internally that can be used to lower the centre of gravity. And it makes the PING metal woods some of the most forgiving on heel strikes ever, with fast ball speeds across the face.
SAND SAVR
One of the most interesting new models from PING is the BunkR. Most golfers struggle to get the ball out of the sand, so PING engineers set out to solve that problem. The Eye2 has often been regarded as one of the best sand wedges ever, so that made a good starting point, taking a lot of inspiration from that shape. Then they added a wider sole with 14.5 degrees of bounce and 64 degrees of loft. The result is a sand wedge that works best when played with a square technique to help golfers extricate the ball from the sand.
Chatting to PING President and CEO, John K Solheim, on Ping’s Proving Grounds test facility, this was the one that had him most excited for his own game.
“I’ve added the BunkR to my bag. It’s changed my life, I’m a happier person! I’m a pretty good golfer, so I didn’t want to like it, but I made a
trip to Oakmont where I’m always in the bunkers, and I hit lots of great shots out of the bunkers and now it’s in the bag. For me it’s a life changing product!
PING’S PLD PERFECTION
There are nooks and crannies with cool stuff going on all over the place at Phoenix. PING mill their PLD putters onsite, and seeing this intricate process first hand was eye opening. But as beautiful as the putters are, we were more impressed by the PLD Lab. Putter fittings take place on a perfectly level, 45-foot, 70-ton granite putting surface. There is nothing else like iit in the world, a literal perfect surface to putt on, while multiple cameras capture data on your stroke and the balls roll. A custom PLD putter is an expensive bit of kit, but when you see the effort and work that goes into creating it and fitting it, it makes perfect sense. I absolutely fell in love with one prototype model, it’ll be interesting to see if it makes it to market.
There is so much more I could talk about. Hitting balls on perfect turf at the Proving Grounds. Led Zeppelin playing on the practice ground at Grayhawk. The new shaft lab PING has in house to build prototype shafts. Draining 30 foot breaking putts at Putting world. PING Man, their proprietary swing robot swinging for the fences.
But coming out of the trip, it was the attention to detail PING take to engineer their equipment that sticks in my mind. Not doing stuff because that’s how it’s always been done, but looking to create the most forgiving golf equipment in golf for every level of player.
PING’S ENGINEERS BUILD INCREMENTALLY ON THE PRODUCT THAT HAS COME BEFORE.
■ PING PUTTING LAB
■ DAN IN PUTTER VAULT WITH JOHN SOLHEIM
■ DAN TRYING OUT THE NEW PING IRONS
■ PING CLUBS OVER THE YEARS
■ PHOTOGRAHS IN KARSTEN SOLHEIM OFFICE
■ DAN SAT AT KARSTEN SOLHEIM’S DESK
ECCO GOLF START FROM SCRATCH WITH THEIR
ECCO have gone back to the drawing board with their latest BIOM H5, taking inspiration from owing Nordic Fjords as well as the Highlands of Scotland. The shoes feature a modern look that will appeal to a totally new customer for ECCO, while o ering the comfort and quality they are renowned for.
The next-generation BIOM golf shoe o ers a modern, sporty aesthetic with allday comfort, crafted from ECCO Performance Leather and a minimal seam-knit sock construction. Enhanced by BIOM NATURAL MOTION technology, the BIOM H5 o ers a snug t that provides stability and forward momentum for dynamic comfort.
The BIOM H5 features ECCO’s brand-new ECCO-TEX waterproof membrane, which ensures golfers’ feet stay dry and comfortable, even in the very wettest conditions.
The innovative new ECCO TERRA TRACTION SYSTEM sole provides superior stability and traction, with an abstract and contemporary look. The BIOM H5 delivers a structured, stable, yet light feel with exceptional energy return and bounce, ensuring you stay ahead in every game, rain or shine.
Available in both lace and BOA closure systems, the ECCO GOLF BIOM H5 combines nature-inspired resilience with cutting-edge performance, ensuring you stay ahead in every game, rain or shine. £190, Eccogolf.com
PowaKaddy have turned things sideways with their latest trolley models by turning their GPS touchscreen 90 degrees. Golf holes tend to be long and narrow, so it makes perfect sense, making it much easier to see what you need to on the hole. But despite the obvious nature of the idea, it was a massive engineering challenge to make the screen strong enough for any misadventures in handling!
At the forefront of the 2025 collection is the CT12 GPS, the most technologically advanced electric trolley PowaKaddy has ever produced. Boasting a 5” HD portrait touchscreen display - the largest on the market - this revolutionary model introduces FULL HOLE View. The new 1.1GHz processor, which is nine times faster, ensures seamless GPS performance with subscription free, instant access to over 40,000 golf courses in FULL HOLE View. The patented fold-away display makes the CT12 GPS ultra-compact and transport-friendly, allowing golfers to enjoy premium GPS functionality without compromising on convenience.
The C10 GPS features a smaller 3.5 inch touchscreen and is around 35% smaller than other compact trolleys on the market. Both models feature a Simple-2-Fold mechanism that makes it super easy to fold for storage and unfold quickly for use on the course.
Toulon Golf, the premium, major-winning putter manufacturer, has unveiled its all-new ’25 putter collection. A single word guided the creation of the ‘25 Collection: ‘Soft’—soft in look, soft in sound, and soft in feel.
Every existing model has undergone a substantial redesign for the ‘25 Collection, with ve new models joining the line-up. The ‘25 Collection features a new Anthracite nish chosen for its playability as well as its ability to highlight the nuances of the soft shapes. .
The goal for the ‘25 Collection was to create a slightly softer feel, rewarding well-struck putts. To achieve this, every aspect of putter design contributing to vibration was studied. As a result, every element was adjusted. Manufactured from 304 stainless steel the putters face thicknesses have been modi ed to varying degrees depending on the model, all with the aim of achieving a softer feel. The Deep Tuna Face Mill is slightly deeper than in previous models and features a Small Tuna over-mill. What does this mean? An improved sound and feel.
While there are too many designs to talk about in detail, we really like the new Carlsbad model. Because of Toulons’s close links with Callaway, they have been allowed to produce their interpretation of the classic Two-Ball putter. The Las Vegas is a beautiful fang design as used by Xander Schauel e and the Hollywood is a beautiful exertion of a classic Asner 2 style blade.
The ‘25 Collection has an RRP of £599, except for the CARLSBAD, which retails at £649. Toulongolfeurope.com
TITLEIST INTRODUCES NEW PRO V1 AND PRO V1X
The Titleist Pro V1 has been the most successful ball franchise over the last 25 years, and every week around the world a tournament is won with either a Pro V1 or Pro V1x. So what have they done to make the newest versions the best yet?
The 2025 Pro V1 and Pro V1x have been engineered to deliver more speed o the tee, more control with the irons and more spin with the wedges. The new models feature a faster high gradient core, reformulated to maintain low long game spin, increase ball speed and add spin on shots into and around the greens.
Through a complete core reformulation, Titleist engineers were able to steepen the so-called “spin slope,” e ectively maintaining low spin o the tee while increasing spin with the scoring clubs. Combine that with a measurable gain in ball speed, and the result is a product that is demonstratively better than its predecessor.
The new Pro V1 features a new faster high gradient core, which produces more speed along with increased iron and wedge spin for more control. Its spherically tiled, 388 tetrahedral dimple design optimises distance and delivers a penetrating and consistent ight.
The new Pro V1x features a new faster high gradient dual-core, which delivers more speed and increases spin on approach shots for more control. Pro V1x’s spherically tiled 348 tetrahedral dimple design is optimised for high ight with even more consistency.
Both models are equipped with a speed amplifying high- ex casing layer, which contributes to low long game spin. Pro V1 and Pro V1x’s soft cast Urethane Elastomer Cover provides excellent greenside spin.
Pro V1 o ers the greatest combination of speed, spin and feel in the game, with mid- ight trajectory, low long game spin, maximum short game spin and soft feel. Compared to Pro V1, Pro V1x will y higher, spin more on full swing shots and have a rmer feel.
The ‘25 Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls, are available in both White and High Optic Yellow, with an SRP of £52 Titleist.co.uk
2025 FOOTWEAR COLLECTION
The 2025 Skechers GO GOLF® footwear collection delivers innovative performance technology, exciting new designs, and the ultimate in comfort for men and women. Integrating comfort technologies from Skechers’ award-winning performance and lifestyle divisions, as well as key insights from the brand’s golf pros, this is their most advanced collection of golf shoes to-date.
Key innovations for 2025 include the continued use of Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins™ technology across select styles for men and women, lightweight and resilient ECO Flight™ cushioning made with at least 10% recycled materials, Goodyear® rubber
outsole technology for enhanced stability, and Skechers Arch Fit® insoles providing podiatristcertified arch support and all-day comfort on the green.
With an emphasis on superior comfort, fit, and style, the 2025 range combines highperforming technologies with modern silhouettes designed to help elevate the experience both on and off the course. With a wide range of styles, colors, and technologies to choose from, the 2025 lineup of 2025 Skechers GO GOLF lineup offers something that every golfer can enjoy. We’d love to see any of the below Skechers GO GOLF styles featured in spring buyer’s guides or new footwear stories. Shop the range at Skechers.co.uk
GO GOLF BLADE GF SL
£160
This athletic style golf shoe offers the convenience of Skechers Hands Free Slipins® technology with the exclusive Heel Pillow™ design to keep your foot securely in place. Your feet will stay dry thanks to waterproof upper while the lightweight Resamax® insole and ECO FLIGHT™ cushioning offer incredible comfort with a GRIPFLEX spikeless outsole for enhanced traction.
GO GOLF TEMPO £100
GO GOLF PRESTIGE SL £150
The new Skechers GO GOLF Prestige SL combines that classic and timeless golf shoe look with the modern convenience of Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins® with Skechers’ exclusive Heel Pillow™ design. This waterproof style features a fashionable laceup leather upper with saddle oxford details, a removable Arch Fit® insole for added support, lightweight ECO FLIGHT™ cushioning, plus replaceable Tour Flex Pro SoftSpikes® for grip on the course.
GO GOLF JASMINE 2 £110
Offering a sleek and sophisticated golf silhouette, the women’s Skechers GO GOLF Jasmine 2 gets a design update with the introduction of Skechers Move Foam™ insoles for superior comfort, lightweight and resilient Skechers ECO FLIGHT™ cushioning, and a spikeless TPU outsole providing unparalleled stability and grip.
Handle the course in total comfort wearing Skechers GO GOLF Tempo GF. This lace-up waterproof style features a high-rebound GOGA MAX® Technology insole for incredible support, along with Skechers ECO FLIGHT™ cushioning, and a GRIPFLEX spikeless outsole for enhanced traction.
GO GOLF ELITE 6 £125
Available in designs for men and women, this sporty golf shoe makes it easy to just step in and hit course with the convenience of Skechers Hands Free Slipins® technology. Designed with recycled materials, it’s also waterproof and offers a removeable Skechers Arch Fit® insole for podiatrist certified arch support. It also features a Skechers Ultra Flight® foam cushioning for comfort and a GRIPFLEX spikeless traction outsole.
PRO SHOP
Your guide to the latest gear
Equipment editor Dan Owen casts his expert eye over the latest equipment launches
FOURTEEN FRZ WEDGES
£180, OTTGOLF.COM
There are a lot of good wedges out there, but these might be the best ones you haven’t heard of. Yet. Fourteen are a legendary Japanese brand whose equipment has been used to win majors. Now available in the UK, their forged FRZ wedges are designed to be the spinniest legal wedge ever.
The Diamana line up is one of the most popular of all time, famously used by Tiger Woods at his best. Now the line-up has been updated, and the most recent addition is the RB or Redboard. Designed for a higher launch and spin, and for golfer who prefer a smooth feel, this will find its way into a lot of fairway
MOTOCADDY
£679.99, MOTOCADDY.CO.UK
If you’re looking for your first electric trolley, the entry level Motocaddy S1 might just be the perfect entry point. Featuring an easy to use one click fold mechanism and a CLICK ‘N’ CONNECT cablefree battery, this trolley will get you around the course hassle free.
FOOTJOY HYPERFLEX
£170, FOOTJOY.CO.UK
FJ have updated their ever-popular Hyperflex. Featuring a Stratofoam Midsole for comfort and stability, the shoes feature TruFit for a locked-in feel around the ankle. The PowerPlate in the sole helps transfer power by resisting twisting through the swing. taking
BETTINARDI ANTIDOTE SB2
£439, BETTINARDI.CO.UK
Putting is changing. The idea of toe hang and face balanced is being pushed aside as a new generation of zero torque putters are taking over. The Antidote putters keep the face square throughout the stroke, regardless of swing path, giving you unmatched control and consistency on the green. ‘Simply Balanced’ the shaft enters the clubhead perfectly with the centre of gravity.
TITLEIST GT HYBRIDS
£299, TITLEIST.CO.UK
The Titleist GT range are the best-looking hybrids around. The GT1 features the biggest head for the highest launch. The GT2 is a midsize head for shallower swings while the GT3 features a compact head for golfers who like to hit down on the ball. All three feature adjustable weighting.
SHOT SCOPE PRO X
£199.99, SHOTSCOPE.COM
The rangefinder market is full of so many good options, it’s hard to know what to pick at times. The new Shot Scope PRO X offers the accuracy and slope you would expect, plus it’s compact. But it’s also customisable with your club logo, national flag, or even No.1 Dad attaching to the side via a swappable plate.
OGIO ALL ELEMENTS HYBRID STAND BAG
£299, EU.OGIO.COM
Inspired by streetwear and fashion away from the golf course, OGIO have managed to make golf bags fun and different while remaining stylish. This Safari colourway is our favourite of the range, with the wave camo a close second.
Fully waterproof and features the unique WOODĒ bag top.
MIZUNO S3 IRONS
£215 PER IRON, MIZUNOGOLF.COM
Some golfers prefer the simple things, they aren’t not looking for the latest technology, just a simple forged iron with the classic Mizuno feel. The Mizuno Pro S3 is the perfect club for them. The one piece forged iron features a copper underlay for an unmatched feel at impact, and a shallow stepped cavity for just a hint of forgiveness.
SRIXON ZX4 IRONS
£999, EU.DUNLOPSPORTS. COM/SRIXON
If you’re looking for forgiveness but don’t want an iron that screams help me, the Srixon ZX4 is a great option. The hollow body design takes the Tour VT sole and i-Forged tech from the ZXi5 & ZXi7 and puts them in a more forgiving but still attractive package.
STITCH SL2 GEN 2 STAND BAG
£399, STITCHGOLF.CO.UK
At the opposite end of the golf bag spectrum is the Stitch SL2. Featuring a classic, simple design, that oozes class, the bag is crafted from Stitch Touring Fabric. It’s got the strength of leather while being significantly lighter and water resistant. Featuring a magnetic ball pocket, and a wider stand, this bag is ready for anything.
HEAVY HITTERS
Unleashing Distance and Control: The Game-Changing Golf Drivers Set to Dominate the 2025 Season. Words by Dan Owen.
TAYLORMADE QI35
£529, TAYLORMADEGOLF.CO.UK
TaylorMade are back with their latest Carbonwood. Designed for more stability than previous TaylorMade drivers, the engineers have worked hard to lower the centre of gravity projection. What does this mean? More of the clubface will offer higher launch and lower spin for longer drives. Plus, we love the new Infinity Chromium Carbon Fibre crown, it’s the most modern-looking driver this year.
SRIXON ZXI
£549, EU.DUNLOPSPORTS.COM/SRIXON
Srixon have been producing great drivers for the last few generations, with wins on tour from Hideki Matsuyama, Shane Lowry, and Ryan Fox in recent seasons. In a market where everyone else has moved to a carbon crown, Srixon have stuck with titanium, which gives them a distinct sound and feel that will be loved by some. The drivers use a Ti72S face featuring an i-Flex design, a totally redesigned face that is as fast as possible across the surface.
TITLEIST GT2
£579, TITLEIST.CO.UK
The Titleist GT range came out in the second half of last year and has been incredibly successful on tour. With four models to choose from, the most popular driver will be the GT2, a forgiving bomber that has proved popular with the Titleist tour staff. Featuring a Seamless Thermoform Crown, created from Proprietary Matrix Polymer (PMP), the driver has all the advantages of a carbon crown while looking and feeling like a more traditional driver.
PING G440 MAX
£575, PING.COM
PING drivers are always so stable that they’ve taken the opportunity to add some ball speed to their latest G440 drivers. Every model now features a Carbon Fly Wrap crown, which has allowed PING to lower the centre of gravity. It has also allowed them to lower the head weights. These two things have enabled PING to lengthen the driver shaft to 46 inches for more clubhead speed without a loss of stability.
COBRA DS ADAPT
£469
CALLAWAY ELYTE
£569, EU.CALLAWAYGOLF.COM
Named after founder Ely Callaway, the Elyte offers elite ball speeds. Featuring a new thermoforged crown, it allows Callaway to lower the centre of gravity while also improving the club’s aerodynamics. The new 10X AI face provide fast ball speeds, tighter dispersion, and ideal launch across the whole face. A Movwable weight in the rear, and Callaways excellent Optifit adjustable hosel help dial in a perfect custom fit.
WILSON DYNAPWR CARBON
£480, WILSON.COM
Wilson isn’t mucking about in 2025, coming to market with three drivers that can compete with anything else on this list. The DynaPWR Carbon features a carbon crown with movable weights front and back, and a beautiful shape at address. The AI-driven PKR-360 face offers fast ball speeds across the entirety of the face, while the movable weights and adjustable hosel can fine-tune launch and spin.
Cobra are not afraid to innovate and change. With the new DS Adapt, the big story is the FutureFit 33 hosel. Featuring 33 different settings, the adjustable hosel can separate loft, lie, and face angle changes, all while not creating an overly large adapter. This allows for a fine-tuning of ball flight that other drivers just can’t compete with. H.O.T. Face technology offers faster ball speeds across the face.
CLEVELAND HI-BORE XL
£399, EU.DUNLOPSPORTS.COM/CLEVELAND-GOLF
And now for something completely different! Redesigned using AI, it features a bold triangular shape engineered for extreme forgiveness and maximum distance. The Hi-Bore XL’s unique shape and deep weighting create a high-MOI design that keeps mishits straighter while boosting ball speed. Cleveland has also borrowed ActivWing from sister brand XXIO, a stabilising airfoil at the heel of the crown designed to improve consistency at impact.
Lowry, and Ryan Fox in recent seasons. In
MOTOCADDY EXPANDS REMOTE RANGE
Motocaddy, has introduced the all-new ME REMOTE, an entry-level remote controlled trolley designed for golfers beginning their hands-free journey.
Combining ease of use with cuttingedge remote technology, the new ME REMOTE o ers impressive features and unmatched value in the remote category at a competitive price point.
Sharing the same outstanding handling experience as the awardwinning M7 GPS REMOTE and M7 REMOTE, the ME REMOTE provides golfers with a reliable and innovative entry point into remote control trolley technology.
“Recognising the success of the entrylevel SE model, which helped even more golfers transition into the electric trolley market, we wanted to o er more options for those interested in exploring the fun o ered by remote control navigation,” said Motocaddy CEO, John Helas.
“We saw a signi cant 31% year-on-year increase in remote control sales last year, with the category becoming increasingly popular with golfers in the UK and Ireland. The ME delivers Motocaddy’s renowned reliability along with advanced and award-winning remote-control technology featured in our other models,” he added.
The ME REMOTE is equipped with a rechargeable ergonomic remote handset o ering an impressive 100m+ range,
providing users with e ortless control for forward, left, right, and reverse navigation.
Engineered for all-terrain performance, the ME REMOTE incorporates automatic Downhill Control technology, which maintains a steady speed on gradients allowing for precise handling on undulating courses. The trolley also features durable all-terrain tyres and 360° rotating twin front wheels, delivering exceptional stability and manoeuvrability, while the removable anti-tip rear wheel provides added con dence on slopes.
The ME REMOTE o ers the exibility to seamlessly switch between remote and manual handle control modes. Built-in convenience features, including a remote handset lock, pause/resume functionality, and an emergency stop, ensure smooth and reliable operation on the course. Its compact-folding design allows for easy storage and transportation, while the USB charging port provides added convenience for powering devices on the go.
Backed by a 12-month warranty, the ME REMOTE has an RRP of £1,049.99 and is available now in a sleek Graphite colourway with a high-capacity ULTRA Lithium battery.
For more information visit www. motocaddy.com
PING LAUNCH NEW APPAREL RANGE
PING Apparel has launched its spring/summer 25 men’s range, with the brand’s largest ever assortment of choice available, made up from a selection of prints, textures and patterns throughout this timeless performance-driven collection.
Crafted from the most premium performance fabrics, incorporating cutting-edge jacquards, soft touch materials and elevated fabrics, the new men’s range strengthens PING’s commitment to o ering golfers a style for every taste.
The range sees an uplift in feel and softness, with a number of polos crafted from soft-touch fabrics, epitomising the comfort all golfers are looking for when out on the course. With 14 di erently designed short-sleeve polos to choose from, PING has ensured there is a choice of style and pattern for all golfers.
Leading the way among the vast selection of polos are the PING Legacy - a new jacquard technology that incorporates a montage of PING’s renowned history - and Diego – a striking foliage jacquard design. Both styles have a soft touch nature and lightweight feel, making them statement pieces where best-in-class performance represents the true legacy behind the PING brand.
With an elevation to the fabric, the Corby serves
KBS UNVEILS PGW
SHAFT TO EXTEND PLAYERS GRAPHITE RANGE
KBS, has launched the brand-new KBS PGW – Player’s Graphite Wood - shaft, engineered to provide golfers with a higher launch trajectory and enhanced spin control.
With its revolutionary design and state-of-the-art materials, the KBS PGW shaft provides the perfect balance of power, control, and feel for golfers aiming to maximise performance o the tee and from the fairway.
Extending the highly successful KBS ‘Players’ series of Graphite performance products, which includes the PGH – Players Graphite Hybrid – and the PGI –Players Graphite Iron – the PGW is a Mid-Torque shaft designed to t a wide variety of swing speeds and features multiple weights and exes allowing a broad range of players to achieve optimum trajectory and spin resulting in more distance. Featuring a lower centre of gravity, the PGW helps golfers achieve a higherlaunching ights with precision and consistency.
“The introduction of the PGW shaft represents our commitment to providing golfers with the best performance equipment,” said KBS Director of R&D and Master shaft-maker Kim Braly. “By enhancing launch conditions and adding stability to the wood category, this shaft is set to rede ne playability for a wide range of golfers.”
Played by more than 300 Tour players worldwide and partnered with all the leading golf club manufacturers, KBS o ers 27 di erent shaft options across every club in the bag. This includes 10 iron variations, four dedicated wedge and putter shafts, plus Graphite shafts across wood, hybrid and iron options in di erent weights and exes.
For further details visit www.kbsgolfshafts.com
as a re ned polo ideal for both on and o -course wear and displays a tailored ribbed collar, with a heat pressed ‘PING Engineered To Play’ badge to the chest, for a clean, classic look. Complementing this out t is the new Keeton midlayer that also takes on a modern and contemporary look, with understated detailing for a smart addition to any out t.
Following the success of last season’s Mr. PING Hoodie, the Ceb is a new lightweight hooded mid-layer that features a light brushed back eece throughout and a single piece panelled sleeve that is speci cally cut for the freedom of movement a golfer requires.
To complete the entire look, the o ering of shorts and trousers follow the theme of the collection – more choice and a greater selection of ts. The all-new Locke Trouser provides a slim-leg performance silhouette with four-way stretch properties, while the new Sherwell Trouser o ers a more traditional regular t option and comes in four colours. The seasonal short, Barret, has a 10” inseam and is available in four vibrant colours for a statement out t, while the new Ari short provides a slightly more athletic and relaxed t, with a shorter 9” inseam.
All shorts and trousers in the range include a branded gripper elastic to the inner waistband, further elevating PING’s commitment to ensuring no detail is left unturned before any golfer walks the course. www.pingeurope.com
TRAVEL & BREAKS
Amateur Golf Events: A New Era for UK Pairs Golf in 2025
Two of the UK’s most prestigious pairs golf events, Mashie and Golfbreaks, are set to merge under a new banner—Amateur Golf Events— marking an exciting new chapter for amateur golf in 2025.
This newly uni ed series will bring a premier tournament experience to ten of the UK’s most iconic courses, o ering competitive golf paired with a vibrant social atmosphere. Players will have the opportunity to compete at renowned venues such as Alwoodley, Worplesdon, and Dundonald Links, with the ultimate prize—a spot in the grand nal at The Grove and the chance to win a luxury golf trip to Costa Navarino.
Supported by leading sponsors including Callaway, TravisMathew, Fever-Tree, and Gusbourne, the events will feature top-tier hospitality, exclusive prizes, and an unforgettable gol ng experience. With its blend of competition, camaraderie, and rst-class venues, Amateur Golf Events promises to be the ultimate destination for pairs golf in the UK—whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a passionate amateur looking to test your skills on some of the country’s best courses. For further details visit https://amateurgolf.events/
DUNDONALD LINKS CLUBHOUSE RECOGNISED AS SCOTLAND’S BEST
Dundonald Links has once again seen its clubhouse recognised as the nation’s best following success at the 2025 Scottish Golf Tourism Awards.
The Ayrshire resort’s acclaimed clubhouse was named as Scotland’s ‘Best Clubhouse’ at this month’s 12th annual Scottish Golf Tourism Awards at Aberdeen’s P&J Live, marking the second time in three years the award has been presented to Dundonald Links.
Overlooking Kyle Phillips’ ‘modern classic’ links course, the clubhouse’s crowning glory is the Canny Crow restaurant, a hugely popular eatery serving locally sourced Scottish favourites.
The building – constructed with high-quality sustainable materials at the start of this decade – also houses Dundonald Links’ changing facilities, saunas and steam rooms and a well-stocked pro shop.
Craig Reekie, general manager at Dundonald Links, said: “Being recognised at the Scottish Golf Tourism Awards is a real honour and testament to both the success of the investment by Darwin Escapes into the property and the hard work of the team.
“We’re excited at what we have already achieved this year at Dundonald Links and look forward to further success in 2025.”
The clubhouse has served as a focal point of Dundonald Links for more than four years, particularly when the resort hosts prestigious events such as the ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open and Final Qualifying for the Open Championship, both of which are set to return to the Ayrshire venue in summer 2025.
Dundonald Links has celebrated success at the awards before, winning the ‘Best Premium Hotel – 4 Star Equivalent’ last year to add to the clubhouse and ‘Best Sustainability Project’ accolades in 2023.
The ultra-modern facility has made the shortlist for the accolade every time it has been nominated since opening in late 2021.
Old Course Vilamoura pa ners with Trackman
The Old Course Vilamoura has taken a groundbreaking step in golf innovation, announcing a long-term partnership with Trackman, the global leader in ball tracking technology.
This announcement marks a signi cant milestone, making the Old Course the only venue in the Algarve to integrate Trackman’s state-of-the-art technology, reinforcing its reputation as a premier gol ng destination.
The partnership, facilitated by DETAILS will introduce Trackman’s cutting-edge ball tracking technology to driving ranges, practice areas, coaching, club tting, and simulator golf across both the recently revamped Old Course Vilamoura and the highly anticipated Els Club Vilamoura, set to launch this summer.
As part of the collaboration, both courses will be integrated into Trackman’s Virtual Golf Platform, allowing golfers to play the courses virtually, both indoors and on the driving range, using the most advanced virtual golf graphics available. This ensures that golf enthusiasts worldwide can experience Vilamoura Golf remotely while o ering members and guests an elevated practice and gameplay experience on-site.
The Old Course will be the rst in the Algarve, and one of only a few in Portugal, to introduce this groundbreaking technology. It has the largest driving range in Portugal with 20 spots available, providing a unique opportunity for golfers to enjoy the game.
Trackman is the latest enhancement to be
introduced at the Old Course Vilamoura, which underwent an extensive refresh in late 2024, unveiling a sophisticated new brand and state-of-the-art clubhouse that blends classic charm with contemporary luxury.
The upgrades also included on-course renovations with a new long-term sustainability strategy introduced, cementing its status as one of Europe’s most environmentally friendly courses. Key initiatives included new sprinkler systems and water-resistant grass varieties to reduce water consumption, Hydropresser stations to lower energy usage, and the introduction of electric machinery when possible to minimise environmental impact.
For more information on the Old Course Vilamoura, visit www.oldcoursevilamoura.com
For more information on Dundonald Links visit dundonaldlinks.com
■ THE GROVE
greens, and a large chipping green, ensuring that every aspect of a golfer’s game can be sharpened. Whether warming up before a round or undergoing intensive practice, the facilities at Pula Golf Resort cater to all levels of golfers with state-of-the-art technology and expert coaching.
A GASTRONOMIC DELIGHT: S’ERA DE PULA RESTAURANT
Beyond its exceptional golf facilities, Pula Golf Resort is also a haven for food lovers. The S’era de Pula Restaurant, an elegant and rustic Mediterranean eatery, provides a dining experience that perfectly complements the resort’s idyllic setting. Overlooking the golf course, this restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including produce grown in Pula’s own 60,002m² orchard, if you get the chance to visit their own vegetable garden, don’t turn it down.
MY STAY AT PULA GOLF RESORT
MATT NICHOLSON spends a night at one of Mallorca’s top golf destinations, testing his game on a championship course and unwinding in pure luxury.
N LUXURY, GOLF, AND TRANQUILITY:
estled on the picturesque east coast of Mallorca, less than an hour from Palma International Airport, Pula Golf Resort is a true gem for golf enthusiasts and holidaymakers alike. Combining world-class golfing facilities with luxurious accommodation, fine dining, and a serene Mediterranean atmosphere, Pula Golf Resort has firmly established itself as one of the premier golf destinations in Spain.
A CHAMPIONSHIP-CALIBRE COURSE
Originally founded in 1995, Pula Golf Club underwent a dramatic transformation between 2004 and 2006, when Spanish golfing legend José María Olazábal was tasked with redesigning the layout. The result is a challenging yet fair championship course measuring 6,246 meters from the back tees and playing to a par 72.
This redesign enhanced the strategic nature of the course, introducing narrower fairways, well-placed bunkers, and undulating greens that demand precision from golfers of all levels. Over the years, Pula Golf Resort has proudly hosted multiple European Tour and Legends Celebrity events, welcoming some of the sport’s biggest names to compete on its immaculately maintained fairways.
One of the standout features of the course is its variety of holes, offering a blend of
risk-and-reward opportunities. During my stay, I found myself remembering a few holes that truly stood out.
The Par-3 2nd hole is a beautifully designed short hole that demands accuracy. With bunkers strategically placed around the green, finding the right level of the putting surface is crucial.
The Par-4 16th is a visually stunning but intimidating hole, with water running all the way down the left-hand side, making both the tee shot and approach shot a real test of nerve.
The restaurant offers a diverse menu, featuring traditional Mallorcan dishes, fresh seafood, and expertly grilled meats, all prepared with an emphasis on authenticity and sustainability. With a selection of fine wines to accompany each meal, guests can enjoy an unforgettable dining experience while soaking in panoramic views of the course and surrounding countryside.
My personal favorite, the Par-4 5th hole, offers an exhilarating challenge. A demanding tee shot must find a narrow fairway, while a large lake on the right-hand side adds extra tension to every shot. It’s a hole that perfectly encapsulates the risk-and-reward nature of Pula’s design.
WORLD-CLASS PRACTICE FACILITIES
For those looking to fine-tune their game, Pula Golf Resort boasts an exceptional practice facility, designed to meet the needs of both amateur and professional golfers. The must visit two-story driving range, which I had the pleasure of overlooking from my room, is now equipped with TrackMan technology, providing precise data analysis to help golfers improve their swing.
In addition, the extensive short-game area includes two putting greens, three pitching
LUXURY ACCOMMODATION & WELLNESS FACILITIES
Pula Golf Resort provides an ideal blend of comfort, relaxation, and exclusivity, ensuring guests can unwind in style after a day on the course. My room, which overlooked both the golf course and the driving range, provided the perfect setting to soak in the serene atmosphere of the resort.
The hotel offers guests a range of fantastic rooms. Golf Suites, Master Suites and Grand Suites, all with airconditioning, Wi-Fi and a minibar. They have private bathrooms, satellite television and complementary toiletries. You can even get a massage in your room.
A GOLFING PARADISE IN MALLORCA
At the end of my short trip to Pula I came to the conclusion that if you’re a single figure player or a casual golfer looking for an unforgettable experience, Pula Golf Resort delivers on all fronts. From its championship golf course and cutting-edge practice facilities to its exceptional dining and luxurious accommodation, every detail of this resort has been meticulously designed to provide guests with an unparalleled golfing retreat.
With its rich history, commitment to excellence, and breathtaking Mediterranean setting, Pula Golf Resort continues to be one of Mallorca’s finest golf resorts. Whether visiting for a golfing holiday, a relaxing retreat, or a competitive event, a stay at Pula Golf Resort promises an unforgettable experience filled with sport, leisure, and indulgence.
For further details and the latest offers visit pulagolf.com
Sun, Sea, and Spectacular Fairways: Discover Murcia’s Hidden Gol ng Haven with YearRound Play, Stunning Landscapes, Rich History, and World-Class Courses Designed by Legends
hen thinking of golf in Spain, the Costa del Sol likely comes to mind. However, hidden in the southeastern corner of the country lies a gem waiting to be discovered: Murcia. A destination that challenges all expectations British golfers may have about Mediterranean golf.
WA PERFECT CLIMATE FOR THE PERFECT ROUND
While much of the United Kingdom deals with winter closures and waterlogged fairways, Murcia o ers golf 365 days a year. With 300 days of sunshine, barely 35 days of rain annually and temperatures that rarely drop below 16°C, your game will never be interrupted. With more than 2,800 hours of sunshine yearly, it’s Spain’s sunniest region and one of Europe’s most reliable destinations for year-round play.
FOR THE DISCERNING BRITISH GOLFER SEEKING SOMETHING BEYOND THE ORDINARY,
MURCIA SPAIN’S HIDDEN GOLF PARADISE
16 COURSES, 16 DIFFERENT WORLDS
If anyone thought a golf course was just a patch of well-kept grass, Murcia o ers a masterclass in diversity. Designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Dave Thomas, each course tells a di erent story.
Imagine starting your round on a course that embraces the Mediterranean Sea, with fairways that seem to oat above crystalclear waters. One swing later, the landscape transforms into ancient pine forests of Sierra Espuña, challenging any preconceptions about southeastern Spain. From Mediterranean greens to courses that could compete with the best alpine layouts in Europe, each hole is a unique chapter.
The truly distinctive feature of the region is the opportunity to play between two seas –the Mediterranean and the Mar Menor –a characteristic unique in Europe. Along 250 kilometers of coastline, the courses integrate perfectly with golden beaches and unspoiled coves, creating a spectacular setting for your game.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DIDN’T CHOOSE AT RANDOM
Murcia transcends typical golf destinations through a sensory journey where the sport intertwines with rich cultural experiences. Between rounds, you can explore Roman theaters, baroque cathedrals and Moorish fortresses, discovering three thousand years of living history. The region’s nomination by National Geographic as an outstanding gastronomic destination is no coincidence. Sample awardwinning wines from Jumilla, Yecla and Bullas —three denominations producing exceptional wines, particularly the internationally recognized Monastrell reds. Indulge in dishes like the “caldero del Mar Menor” or the famous “marineras” —an exquisite combination of Russian salad on a crispy breadstick topped with anchovy.
PREMIUM ACCOMMODATION, EXCEPTIONAL VALUE
The accommodation is equally exceptional. From ve-star resorts like the Grand Hyatt La Manga to boutique hotels with sea views like the Hotel Lodomar Spa, each space is designed to enhance your gol ng experience. With more than 25 specialized hotels between Mar Menor and the Mediterranean, you’ll nd the perfect place to relax after your round. What truly distinguishes Murcia is its commitment to sustainability.
The golf courses use recycled water, smart irrigation systems and preserve native species, pioneering Mediterranean sustainability practices while o ering one of the best valuefor-money ratios in the Mediterranean. For the discerning British golfer seeking something beyond the ordinary, Murcia o ers a complete ecosystem: golf academies, club rental, specialized tour operators and a strategic location with international airports ensure a perfect trip.
Welcome to Murcia. Welcome to your next great gol ng adventure.
For further information visit: empireofgolf.com/en
Sir Nick Faldo hails ‘special’ site as new
Six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo has lauded the site of his hotly anticipated new course at Ponta do Pargo in Madeira after heading to the Portuguese archipelago for an inspection trip this month.
The 30-time DP World Tour winner first set foot on the site – on the westernmost point of Madeira’s main island – more than 20 years ago and returned there once again earlier this month as the construction project nears its final stages.
Scheduled for opening in 2026, the par-72 layout is perched high on the clifftops and boasts spectacular views across the archipelago and out to the Atlantic Ocean.
Faldo and his team were challenged to create a course that could be enjoyed by players of all skill levels without sacrificing the dramatic natural landscape and frequent elevation changes that define the site.
Now as the finishing touches are applied, the course’s route stretches along the famous Miradouro do Fio before winding back to a strategically located clubhouse with breathtaking panoramic vistas.
Faldo said: “Building on a site with such natural beauty is a golf course designer’s dream. It is one of those sites that you could walk a million times and still find yourself lost in the scenery. I walked the land and was instantly playing the course in my mind; I cannot wait to get a club in my hands.”
Sustainability has also been at the heart of Ponta do Pargo’s development process, with several key measures in place to reduce the environmental impact of building and managing the course. The choice to install Madeira’s native Kikuyu grass, which can thrive on the climate’s natural rainfall alone, is expected to drastically reduce demand for water throughout the year.
Faldo continued: “I have always felt that golf courses need to be designed in a way that protects and showcases the natural flora and fauna - when you get a special site like this, sometimes the hardest part is not tinkering with it too much. I have been fortunate to work on some spectacular sites around the world, but Ponta do Pargo is in a league of its own.
“The calibre of golf that we are designing combined with the astonishing views only complement the culture and hospitality the region is known for.”
Across a glittering career, Faldo won the Open Championship and the Masters Tournament three times each – a feat only achieved by three other players in history. He represented Team Europe in eleven Ryder Cups as
Madeira course nears completion
a player and once as a captain, winning four times and retaining the trophy with a tie in 1989.
Ponta do Pargo will become the fourth course to draw golfers from across the world to Madeira, joining three more designs by the sport’s leading figures: Cabell B. Robinson’s Palheiro Golf, perched high above the city of Funchal; Club de Golf Santo da Serra, a 27-hole venue built by legendary architect Robert Trent Jones; and Seve Ballesteros’ acclaimed Porto Santo Golfe on the nearby island of Porto Santo.
For more information on Madeira visit visitmadeira.com
HITTING THE GREENS IN THE GARDEN STATE
Whether you’re looking to tee it up at some of the most exclusive private golf clubs in the world or walk the fairways of some of America’s most highly rated public courses and resorts, the Garden State of NEW JERSEY has it all, plus world-class entertainment and generous hospitality
It is somewhat opposite the state that is home to the United States Golf Association – which sets the Rules of Golf and runs many of America’s leading amateur and professional tournaments, including the US Open – should have chosen to base its headquarters in New Jersey.
The Garden State, as it is known, has a long tradition and strong association with golf. And while the world-renowned courses to be found at Pine Valley and Baltusrol no doubt proved good reasons for US golf’s governing body to set up shop at Liberty Corner in Somerset County, the accessibility to over 275 of the US’s nest public courses and resorts must have also entered calculations when deciding to base their headquarters in the heart of New Jersey in 1972.
With so much choice, and so much quality in quantity, it’s hard to know where to start when it comes to highlighting NJ’s attraction as a golf holiday destination, or as, might be the case, a holiday destination with some golf thrown in.
Bounded by New York to the north and northeast, Delaware and Pennsylvania to the west, and 130 miles of stunning coastline on the famous Jersey Shore to the east, New Jersey maybe one of the USA’s smallest states, but it’s also one of the wealthiest and most populous, and is packed with things to do and places to see, and as such is the ideal place to kickstart any itinerary to this beautiful part of north east America.
OLD SCHOOL COUNTRY CLUBS & MODERN MASTERPIECES
New Jersey is laden with gol ng history, with some of its best known layouts well over 100 years old, but is also home to some the USA’s newest designs, whose nely sculpted fairways belie their young age.
Any discussion of golf in New Jersey will and should begin with what many consider to be the best golf course in the world – Pine Valley Golf Club. Located in the southern part of NJ in Camden County, Pine Valley has ranked No.1 in every edition of Golf Digest’s esteemed ‘America’s 100 Greatest Course’ except four times – when it was second to Cypress Point. George Crump’s tree-lined masterpiece is regarded as gol ng nirvana for many, although getting a tee time will require playing as a member’s guest, so be prepared to get checking the family tree if you want to experience what is widely considered to be the ultimate test of golf.
First opened in 1919, such was its di culty it took fully three years before anyone shot 70, while some of the early members are understood to have won quite a bit of money betting rst-time visitors that they couldn’t break 80. Although Arnold Palmer famously took all the bets going when he played it in 1954 and cleaned up when shooting an impressive 68. Described by Robert Trent Jones as a ‘beautiful monster’, it’s worth selling your grandmother to play alongside a member for the day at a course which places high demands on every shot.
But if your connections don’t cut it, New Jersey is thankfully blessed with plenty of alternative world-class venues, with ten of the Garden State’s 275-plus courses featuring in Golf Digest’s top
■ NEW JERSEY BOASTS SOME INCREDIBLE BEACHES
200, including some of the best designs by the game’s classic architects. AW Tillinghast lived for much of his life in New Jersey and built both courses at seven-time US Open venue Baltusrol, whose magnificent Lower Course also hosted the PGA Championship in 2005 and the Women’s PGA Championship just last year.
Tillinghast’s handiwork can also be enjoyed at the unique masterpiece that is Somerset Hills, although that too, like Pine Valley, requires a member’s introduction, although there are no such concerns at the fabulous 27-hole facility at Ridgewood Country Club, which hosted the 1935 Ryder Cup, when the home side ran out 9-3 winners under the captaincy of Walter Hagen. More recently host of the PGA Tour’s Northern Trust, Ridgewood boasts three 9-hole loops, with the East and West combination forming the premier day-to-day 18-hole course, where accurate driving is required to navigate your way through tight, tree-lined corridors to firm and fast greens. The club’s Central Course is also not to be missed, especially if you want to try and recreate Rory McIlroy’s feat of reaching the green on the par-4 fourth, which he did in all four rounds of the Northern Trust, making two eagles and two birdies!
Fans of Donald Ross’s design skills should not miss the gems to be played at Plainfield Country Club and Mountain Ridge Country Club. The former, a host venue for the US Women’s Open, the US Amateur and The Barclays, is one of the oldest clubs in the US, with the 130-year-old venue having been restored some 20 years ago by Gil Hanse to make it the work of art that it is today.
While New Jersey is home to dozens of timeless classic courses, it is also the venue for some very 21st century designs, including the modern marvels that can be equal parts awe-inspiring and polarising, such as the Liberty National, owned by Paul Fireman and Bayonne, owned by Eric Bergstol, both of which enjoy dramatic and rather surreal locations directly across the Hudson River from Wall Street where panoramic views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline create a quixotic backcloth. Bayonne is an authentic links layout reminiscent of many a British seaside course, with fairways tumbling through giant man-made sand dunes and greens perched on raised plateaus. Its dockside location is incongruous to say the least, but it’s well worth playing for the views alone.
For other modern tests, be sure to tackle the ultra-difficult and expertly crafted Galloway National, while bold and beautiful courses like the Ridge at Back Brook and Tom Fazio’s Trump Bedminster should also be high on your list of must-plays. And a newcomer, a bold and mesmerising redesign of the old, flat Sand Barrens – the new Union League National in Cape May Court House – has the potential to give New Jersey yet another top nationally ranked course within its borders.
For golf with incredible panoramic views, check into the Crystal Springs Golf & Spa Resort in Hamburg – the closest golf resort to New York – which boasts no fewer than six championship courses, including designs by Robert von Hagge (Crystal Springs) and Robert Trent Jones
(Ballyowen), all played in the shadows of the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains. Students of golfing history, and anyone who loves the game, should be sure plan in a visit to the USGA Museum and Arnold Palmer Center for
■ RIDGEWOOD
Golf History in Liberty Corner, which houses one of the world’s leading collections of golf artifacts and memorabilia. Its exhibits tell the fascinating 100-plus-year story of golf in America and is well worth factoring into your holiday itinerary.
OFF-COURSE ATTRACTIONS
EXPLORE THE SHORES OF NEW JERSEY
New Jersey’s 130 miles of sandy beaches are beckoning visitors this summer. With direct flights from the UK to Newark and enviable weather during the summer months, the state is a great choice for those looking for an ultimate beach holiday with beautiful barrier islands and bays dotted with majestic lighthouses, fishing villages and scenic views.
The sandy beaches are the state’s most treasured prize and attract families, couples and friends, visiting to enjoy the sun, sand, water sports and beach side attractions.
Atlantic City is New Jersey’s most famous coastal city. Visitors flock to enjoy the wide sandy beaches, the world-famous boardwalk, world class casino resorts and fantastic dining and entertainment offerings.
BEACHES & BOARDWALKS
Other cities with beach-front locations include the lively Wildwoods, Seaside Heights with its two amusement piers, family favourite Ocean City and trendy Asbury Park, all of which feature fun-filled boardwalks with entertainment, rides, shopping and dining.
Adrenaline junkies are well catered for on the beaches of New Jersey. The state is home to some of the best surfing on the East Coast, the ocean typically remains warm through October and the excellent surfing is the result of the Atlantic Ocean’s hurricane season which increases the swell. Great beach towns for surfing include Manasquan, Belmar and Seaside Heights.
Family beach holiday options are also in abundance along the coast of New Jersey.
Long Beach Island is an 18-mile-long island strewn with small shore towns and long stretches of white sand which has been attracting families for generations.
At Beach Haven, the island’s main action centre, you’ll find the water parks Fantasy Island Amusement Park and Thundering Surf Water Park & Adventure Golf.
At Wildwoods in southern New Jersey, in addition to an expansive beach, there are 38 blocks of exciting boardwalk attractions, including three incredible
amusement piers, water parks and crazy golf, plus there is a weekly firework display during the summer. Point Pleasant Beach offers a boardwalk filled with arcades and rides, an aquarium and beach front amusement park and Ocean City has eight full blocks of family amusements.
For a quieter beach experience Spring Lake, Ocean Grove and Stone Harbor offer a more sedate stay. Here you can find historic lighthouses, preserved natural areas, inlets and bays.
Cape May is a charming town located at the southernmost point of the Jersey Shore, with a world renowned architectural legacy, many of its colourful Victorian homes have been turned into boutique bed & breakfasts. The town is also home to the grand Congress Hall, which is America’s oldest seaside resort, dating back to 1816. The small towns of Barnegat Light and Harvey Cedars, both located on the north end of Long Beach Island, also offer a laid-back, idyllic island getaway.
ATLANTIC CITY – VEGAS BY THE SEA
Atlantic City is often considered the entertainment capital of New Jersey and big acts have been performing there in casinos, clubs and bars since the 1930s, Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra were regularly belting out their hits in the early days of Atlantic City’s music venues.
These days, Alicia Keys, ZZ Top, Mary J Blige, Dionne Warwick, Alice Cooper and Billy Ocean are just some of the artists to have played gigs here in recent years.
Venues here include Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, Ovation Hall at Ocean Casino Resort, the Event Centre at Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa, Sound Waves at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Hard Rock Live Etess Arena.
Live music events and festivals take place throughout the state. Coming up this summer and beyond include North to Shore, which features country stars from around
the US and will take place 11-13 August, while Sea.Hear.Now in Asbury Park features two full days of music with more than 25 bands on three stages. This year’s festival takes place September 13-14 with Hozier headlining on Saturday and Blink-182 headlining on Sunday.
And if American Football is your thing, then NJ has that catered for too, with the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford being home to the New York Giants and New York Jets. Due to host the FIFA World Cup final in 2026, the venue also hosts big scale music concerts such as Kendrick Lamar and SZA on May 8-9 or
Join Dan Hendriksen’s Golf Society for an Exclusive Omaha Beach Experience
Renowned YouTube golfer Dan Hendriksen has launched the Dan Hendriksen Golf Society, bringing together golf enthusiasts for top-class events at some of the best courses in Europe. One of the highlights on the calendar is an unforgettable trip to Omaha Beach Golf Resort in September 2025, organized in partnership with Bonjour Golf.
This special golf getaway o ers a seamless travel experience, including coach transport, overnight cabin accommodation on the ferry, and a comfortable hotel stay with breakfast. The trip is more than just golf—guests will have time to explore the rich D-Day history of the region, with visits to landmarks and museums.
Golfers will enjoy rounds on the two outstanding courses at Omaha Beach Golf Resort, known for their spectacular coastal views and challenging layouts. The resort’s newly refurbished clubhouse adds to the experience, providing a welcoming atmosphere for post-round relaxation. Accommodation will be in Port-en-Bessin, a charming seaside town with plenty of options for dining and drinks.
With over 30 years of experience, Bonjour Golf has a deep-rooted connection to Omaha Beach, ensuring this trip is perfectly curated for golfers of all levels. Their longstanding partnership with the resort guarantees excellent course conditions, with the event taking place just weeks before the venue hosts its prestigious Pro-Am tournament.
Bonjour Golf specializes in golf holidays across France, o ering a range of friendly tournaments in spring and autumn, as well as customized coach tours for golf societies and PGA professionals. Groups of all sizes—from small friend groups to large club outings—can rely on their extensive expertise and commitment to top-quality service.
In addition to their French golf escapes, Bonjour Golf also provides great-value breaks to Northern Spain, where golfers can follow in the footsteps of Spanish legends Seve Ballesteros, José María Olazábal, and Jon Rahm.
For more details on this exclusive Dan Hendriksen Golf Society event at Omaha Beach or to explore other tailored golf trips, visit www. bonjourgolf.com or contact the Golf Desk at 01822 618181. Speak to Kerry or Karen for expert advice, or email golfdesk@bonjourgolf.com to secure your place.
Di Stewa Joins Clubs to Hire as Global Brand Ambassador
Renowned golf broadcaster and presenter, Di Stewart, has been announced as the new global ambassador for Clubs to Hire, the leading provider of premium golf club rental services.
On joining as ambassador Di said: “The concept of golfers having top-quality clubs delivered straight to their hotel or resort is such a simple yet transformative idea.
It eliminates the hassle of lugging clubs through airports or dealing with excess baggage charges. I’m excited to help showcase this service and encourage more golfers to embrace a stress-free way to enjoy the game while traveling abroad.”
As part of her role, Di will create and share expert gol ng tips, highlight must-visit golf destinations and o er insights into the latest trends within the golf industry.
This exclusive content will feature prominently in Clubs to Hire’s digital e-zine, sent twice a month to over 56,000 engaged readers.
The Irish based rental rm who will celebrate fteen years in business this year o ers the latest clubs to the market from €45 to €90 per week including delivery at 29 key golf locations around the world, including Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Ireland, UK, Dubai, Thailand, South Africa and more.
Commenting on the signing, Founder and Chief Executive Tony Judge said: “We are delighted Di has come
on board to join our current Ambassador David Howell and help us grow our brand and reputation.
Our female business is growing rapidly as thousands of lady golfers take advantage of our service when gol ng abroad. Our lady golfers love our o ering and will really enjoy Di’s inside knowledge on the game and trends taking place in golf.
Di Stewart is a highly recognisable gure in the world of golf, with an extensive career that includes a long tenure on Sky Sports Golf. She is now a prominent voice across many gol ng platforms, including “Live at the Range at The Open Championship,” which is now in its ninth year.
Di also hosts the popular podcast “Why Golf” with IMG, which has entered its successful third season. Beyond broadcasting, Di works closely with the R&A, hosting various patron days and playing a key role in rst-tee entertainment at both the Solheim Cup and Ryder Cup, as well as the opening and closing ceremonies of these prestigious events.
For further details visit www.clubstohire.com
Women’s Golf Day announces new pa nership with Golfbreaks
Women’s Golf Day (WGD) and Golfbreaks, the global golf tour operator, have announced a new partnership agreement designed to create amazing travel and golf opportunities.
Under the agreement, the newly created WGD x Golfbreaks Travel section will carry general travel information and packages, featured packages and WGD curated trips to major events and dream destinations ranging from a ordable to bespoke luxury experiences.
Golfbreaks will also host a WGD event this summer (May 27 –June 3) as part of the WGD 10th anniversary celebrations.
“Golfbreaks is passionate about facilitating more golf options for women and creating experiences that make golf less daunting for them, which perfectly aligns with
the ethos of Women’s Golf Day,” said Dolores Brown, Head of Tournaments at Golfbreaks, “Taking a trip away with your gol ng friends or family is a fantastic way to enjoy more golf.
We hope that by curating WGD Golfbreaks trips, as well as promoting some of our favorite packages, we can encourage more women to travel this year.”
INCREASING FEMALE GOLFERS
As signatories of the R&A Women in Golf Charter, WGD and Golfbreaks are both committed to women’s golf and will work in collaboration to create multiple opportunities for women to play –globally – through the season.
“We are delighted to have Golfbreaks as our travel partner,” comments WGD Founder, Elisa Gaudet.
“They have an incredible reputation for delivering excellence in travel around the globe and for understanding the customers’ needs.
Their dedication to increasing female participation and
understanding the important role women play in in uencing the nancial decisions and coordinating arrangements for travel for their families and friends inspired this partnership.
Together we will facilitate more women and men experiencing the beauty of golf travel from exploring the many unique locations to weekend stay and play, major golf tournaments and bucket list travel at the many stunning courses around the world.”
As a former PGA TOUR employee and frequent traveler, Elisa will be documenting her favourite golf locations, professional tournaments, hidden gems in each location in a monthly blog called “Birdie Eye View” on the WGD travel page, which will also be promoted through the WGD newsletter and on social media.
The WGD x Golfbreaks Travel section can be seen at : www.womensgolfday.com/ womens-golf-day-travel-2025/ Women’s Golf Day Location Registration is now open. Simply visit: womensgolfday.com/ register
Po al Golf Reso team up with Chester Races in 2025
Golf enthusiasts and horse racing fans, mark your calendars! Portal Golf Resort and Chester Races are teaming up to o er an incredible combination of premium golf breaks and thrilling race day experiences. Whether you’re seeking championship golf, luxury accommodations, or the excitement of Chester Races, these exclusive packages deliver it all.
Experience the ultimate blend of relaxation, championship golf, and thrilling horse racing with premium breaks at the Portal Hotel Golf & Spa Resort and Chester Races in 2025. O ering luxurious accommodations, world-class golf courses, and exclusive race day experiences, these packages are perfect for golf and racing enthusiasts alike. The Portal Hotel Golf & Spa o ers the perfect combination of luxury, world-class golf, and exceptional hospitality. With its Championship Course, relaxing spa, and premium dining. Packages start from just £379 per person (based on twin sharing). For further details visit macdonaldhotels.co.uk/portal/golf/breaks/chester-races-package
STREAMSONG’S RISE:
HOW A FORMER MINE BECAME ONE OF AMERICA’S TOP GOLF RESORTS
If you’re thinking of travelling to Tampa or to Orlando in the future, then add some days onto your schedule and head to The Streamsong Resort. Writes Graham McKenzie
Located on a 16,000-acre former phosphate mining site near Fort Meade, Florida. Yes, a former mine field has become one of the top golfing destinations in the whole of the USA and it’s only a 45-minute drive from the major tourism hot spots of the sunshine state.
With its dramatic terrain of towering sand dunes, deepwater lakes, and expansive landscapes shaped by mining operations, Streamsong offers a unique and fabulous golfing experience.
The resort features three celebrated courses, Red, Blue, and Black, has a fourth concept course called the Chain and is developing a fifth course to expand its worldclass offerings.
HISTORY AND MINING HERITAGE
Streamsong’s land was once part of Florida’s “Bone Valley,” known for prehistoric fossils. The Mosaic Company, a major phosphate supplier, owned the site and used it for strip mining.
In 2012 company executives, probably golfers themselves, recognised the potential of the land’s unique contours and transformed it into a golf resort reminiscent of Scotland’s and Ireland’s coastal links courses. Certainly not links but nevertheless it is a golfing paradise that blends industrial history with natural beauty.
THE COURSES: RED
Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, the Red Course is an 18-hole masterpiece that challenges players with its dramatic landforms and strategic design.
It was the first one I played, and it is an absolute delight with the elevation changes, fast greens, due to the Bermuda grass, and very clever design taking into account the abundance of hazards both solid and liquid.
The opening par-4 is a special challenge if your game of the tee is not up to snuff as it requires a long carry over water while the shorter holes provide scoring opportunities.
BLUE
Tom Doak designed the Blue Course
with a minimalist approach that emphasizes natural contours wide fairways lined with wild grasses, massive irregular bunkers shaped by wind, and undulating greens.
BLACK
The Black Course by Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner is currently the daddy of them all. A par-73 championship course stretching 7,331 yards with five par-5s of varying lengths. With some of the biggest greens in golf that seem to go on for ever, dramatic elevation changes and bomb crater bunkers. Its not a course for somebody with a bad slice.
THE CHAIN
Opened in 2023 as an innovative short course designed by Coore & Crenshaw it has , unusually 19 holes that range from 90 yards to 240 yards. Often used as a ‘’fun’ course or as a warmup it offers a unique challenge and can be played by individuals of varying skill levels as you can choose your own tee off position. Sounds bizarre but it does work and is a golf course of immense quality. Diverting from the creative naming routine of basic colours from the rest of Streamsong the chain is called such after the equipment used on the former mining area.
NEW COURSE
The story does not end there though as David McLay Kidd, of Bandon Dunes fame, is designing Streamsong’s fifth course.
If precedent is anything to go by it will be called Green or Yellow but we may all be surprised. Speaking to ‘those in the know’ it is expected to be the longest course at the resort, dunes and ridges will feature heavily but designed in such a way to make the most of the wind that can affect this part of Florida.
We are not talking a 55mph easterly on the shores of the North Sea but a gentle breeze that can alter your club selection and mess with your brain.
It will certainly be located between Red and Black courses so maybe it will be called Roulette and will share the same magnificent club house that offers vista over not just the estate but right across this part of Florida.
So, if you are coming to play Golf here, and why play only one course when soon five will be available, there is an option to stay over and enjoy the facilities.
THE HOTEL AT STREAMSONG
Streamsong offers luxurious lodging to complement its golf facilities. Streamsong Lodge is a 216-room hotel featuring restaurants, a spa, rooftop lounge, fitness centre, and lakeside pool.
The Clubhouse is a smaller facility with 12 guestrooms, a golf shop, and a steakhouse-themed restaurant. If you are travelling with non-golfers, there are other activities available. Guided bass fishing, hiking trails, bird watching, and sporting clays.
Without over egging it Streamsong Resort is redefining a golf break in Florida by transforming an industrial site into an extraordinary golfing destination.
With its existing courses ranked among the best in the U.S. and its upcoming fifth course promising even more excitement, Streamsong continues to attract players from around the globe. It stands as a testament to innovative design and sustainable land use.
For further information visit streamsongresort.com
■ 4TH GREEN, THE CHAIN
LEGENDARY COURSES. SUPERIOR HOSPITALITY.
Golf was played in Charleston more than 100 years before the United States even became a country. The legendary 1991 Ryder Cup, deemed the “War by the Shore”, was contested at the famed Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, as was the 2012 and 2021 PGA Championship. Now the stage is set for the PGA Championship to return to the Ocean Course in 2031.
Learn more about playing any of the 20 championship courses in the Charleston area, by visiting EnjoyCharlestonGolf.com
With the US Open rolling into Oakmont Country Club for the tenth time in the championship’s storied history in June, there has never been a better time to plan a golf trip to Pittsburgh , the shining jewel of Western Pennsylvania, where America’s industrial past rubs shoulders with its glittering future, and where the choice of superb golf courses is only matched by the City of Champions’ wonderful hospitality.
s anyone who has ever been lucky enough to go the Masters Tournament will tell you, watching the greatest exponents of the professional game in action on one of the world’s most iconic golf courses is one life’s great bucket list ticks.
A PUTTING YOUR WAY AROUND PITTSBURGH
PITTSBURGH HOLDS AN
EXALTED
PLACE IN GOLF HISTORY AND HAS MORE THAN ITS FAIR SHARE OF EXCELLENT TRACKS.
As well as providing an opportunity to marvel at the beauty of the course and admiring the skills on show, a visit to the Masters, in fact any major championship, also serves to whet your appetite to get back out on the golf course to find out if a tiny bit of that magical stardust that the top players possess has rubbed off on you.
Of course, it rarely does, and no matter how inspired you may feel by the dazzling skills you have witnessed up close and personal, translating those miracle flop shots and booming 350-yard drives takes more than a little practice and talent. Still, it won’t stop me trying, and nor should it you.
This, in a roundabout way, goes some way to explaining the growing popularity for golf holidays that combine a visit to a tournament, with time left over to play a bit of your own golf in the local area and take in the sights, sounds and smells.
While tour pros generally jet in and out of championship venues without seeing anything more than the inside of their hotel suite and the view from the backseat of a luxury people carrier en route to the golf course, less timepressured independent travelers at least get the opportunity to take some time to explore their surroundings, tee it up at some local courses and enjoy whatever the local hospitality has to offer.
While the Masters, of course, is rooted in Augusta, Georgia and will be for as long as the sun shines on God’s green earth, the US Open and the US PGA Championship hop around America at dozens of different courses and states, from Pebble Beach in northern California to Kiawah Island on the east coast of Florida and many points in between.
While this year’s PGA Championship is being staged at Quail Hollow in North Carolina for only the second time in its history, the 125th US Open is returning to the venerable Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania from June 9-15 for what will be the Pittsburgh-based venue’s tenth staging of the championship. Located just 15 miles from the centre of Pittsburgh, one of the reason that the US Open has been staged at Oakmont more than any other course is not hard to see at soon as you step foot on the property. In fact, hard is the operative word here. Oakmont is hard with a capital H. And those pain-inflicting souls that run the US Open like their courses to be hard. To get a basic understanding of how difficult the challenge Oakmont presents you only need to look at the scores from the last two stagings of the championship held there. In 2007, Argentina’s Angel Cabrera lifted the trophy with a winning score of +5, while Dustin Johnson was one of just four players in the 156-strong field to break par when he won in 2016. And while it’s probably
■ OAKMONT
THE PICK OF PITTSBURG GOLF
While Pittsburgh’s proud sporting identity is forged around its beloved sports teams –Steelers (American Football), Pirates (Baseball), and Penguins (Ice Hockey) – this underrated, highly livable city may not, at first glance, seem like a hotbed of golf, but it holds an exalted place in golf history and has more than its fair share of excellent tracks.
In the public sphere, the best golf courses in Pittsburgh take full advantage of the rolling and
not a lot of fun to play – unless you like pain – it’s extremely entertaining to watch the world’s best golfers having to play their very best to make par and even be happy with bogey, just like we ‘normal’ golfers do week in week out. Seeing first-hand how Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy extricate themselves from cavernous bunkers, escape from ankle-deep rough and navigate lightening quick greens is a lesson in itself, and well worth the price of a day ticket.
And while bagging a ticket to the US Open is no easy feat, getting a tee time at Oakmont is even harder, as you can only play it as a member’s guest. Thankfully, there are plenty of other more welcoming and golfer-friendly courses in the Pittsburgh area on which to test your skills –whatever your handicap or experience levels.
HOW TO GET THERE
British Airways offers daily non-stop flights from London Heathrow to Pittsburgh. Flying time is 8 hours 20 mins, with return fares starting from £519pp. For bookings, visit ba.com.
hilly wooded terrain that dominates the Western Pennsylvania landscape, although you have to drive a little way beyond the city limits to get to them.
Olde Stonewall Golf Club, located 30 minutes northwest of Pittsburgh, was rated among the best new courses in the US when it first opened in 1999 and has regularly featured among the country’s top 50 public courses ever since. With 15-minute tee intervals, golfers will have time to savour this superb track, whose front nine is laid out on rolling terrain sandwiched between a ridge and a creek, while the back nine sees raised tees hang on severe slopes held in place by giant blocks of limestone. After your round, make sure you find time relax in the unforgettable and spectacular clubhouse which is designed in the style of a mediaeval castle.
Closer to the city, and in fact located right in the heart of it, is the Bob O’Connor Golf Course at Schenley Park. With golf having been played here since 1897, ‘The Bob’, which is named after a former city mayor, is one of the oldest municipal courses in the US. The 9-hole course, which measures just 2,400 yards, and features seven par-4s and two par-3s, is popular with beginners, families and children learning to play the game thought the First Tee programme, but for the visiting golfer it’s a delightful way to spend a couple of hours for the price of a couple of beers, with the green fee set at just $16.
A 25-minute drive south of the city will take you to the delightful 27-hole course at Lindenwood Golf Club in Canonsburg, where the three distinctly different loops of nine providing unique challenges, with Gold being the most forgiving, Red the longest, and the Blue being the most challenging. Finding the right combination is no easy choice – the Gold features fewer water hazards – so the best advice would be to play all three.
For golf on a grander scale, Speidel Golf Club at Oglebay Resort, which is nestled in the rolling hills of Wheeling, 60 miles west of Pittsburgh, is home to four golf courses, but the two championship-level layouts designed by Arnold Palmer and Robert Trent Jones Snr. The former is a par-71 layout with six short holes and five par-5s and can play as long as 6,800 yards and as short as 4,200, so it’s designed to accommodate all levels of players, while the Jones course is a far more muscular design, stretching to 7,000 yards off the tips and covering some hilly terrain it’ll challenge all aspects of your game.
If time and stamina allows, Cranberry Highlands, a 25-mile drive due north of the city, is a public course with the private club vibe that boasts a superb 6,500-yard, links-style course with plenty of changes in elevation to keep things interesting, while the publicly-owned courses at North Park and South Park, both of which are run by Allegheny County, are just a short run north and south of the city, offer stunning views and are both part of much wider public outdoor leisure facilities.
THINGS TO DO IN PITTSBURGH OVERLEAF.
PITTSBURGH PUBLIC GOLF COURSES
QUICKSILVER GOLF CLUB www.quicksilvergolf.com
NORTH PARK GOLF COURSE www.alleghenycounty.us/Parks-andEvents/Activities/Golf-Courses
SOUTH PARK GOLF COURSE www.alleghenycounty.us/Parks-andEvents/Activities/Golf-Courses
OGLEBAY RESORT www.oglebay.com
HICKORY HEIGHTS GOLF CLUB www.hickoryheightsgolf.com
OLDE STONEWALL GOLF CLUB www.oldestonewall.com
CRANBERRY HIGHLANDS GOLF CLUB www.cranberryhighlands.com
TANGLEWOOD GOLF COURSE www.tanglewoodgc.online
BOB O’CONNOR GOLF COURSE www.thebobgc.com
GRAND VIEW GOLF CLUB www.pittsburghgolf.com
MEADOWINK GOLF COURSE www.meadowinkgolf.com
WESTWOOD GOLF CLUB www.westwoodlinks.net
RIVERVIEW GOLF COURSE www.riverviewpa.com
LINDENWOOD GOLF CLUB www.lindenwoodgolf.com
3 LAKES GOLF COURSE www.3lakesgolf.com
For more information about where to play golf in and around Pittsburgh, visit visitpittsburgh. com/things-to-do/outdoor-adventure/golf/
■ OLDE STONEWALL
■ OLDE STONEWALL
■ BOB O’CONNOR GOLF COURSE
OFF-COURSE ACTIVITIES
When UK travelers think about must-visit destinations in the US cities like New York, Miami, and San Fransico often come to mind. However, tucked away in western Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh offers a unique and vibrant experience that combines rich history, a thriving arts scene, an eclectic food culture, outdoor adventures, and a strong sense of community.
Known as the ‘Steel City’ because of its industrial roots, Pittsburgh has evolved into a modern, dynamic city that offers something for every kind of traveler. If you’re looking for a destination that blends oldworld charm with contemporary innovation, here are several compelling reasons to add Pittsburgh to your travel list.
ARTS
Pittsburgh is home to the sevenstory Andy Warhol Museum, which celebrates the globally renowned artist who was born in the city. Holding the largest collection of Warhol’s work in the world, the exhibition includes his earliest drawings, illustrations and video output. The impressive gift shop sells all kinds of ephemera inspired by Warhol’s art, including any number of items imprinted with tins of Campbell’s Tomato soup, from mugs and candles to lunch bags and tea towels, T-shirts and caps.
ARCHITECTURE MASTERPIECE
Fallingwater isn’t just a house—it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning example of organic architecture, blending art, nature, and innovation.
Located about 70 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Fallingwater is one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most iconic masterpieces. Built in 1935, this architectural marvel is famous for its dramatic cantilevered design
known for its unique combination of meat, tomato, coleslaw, and French fries stuffed between thick slices of Italian bread.
For a taste of the city’s multicultural heritage, explore neighborhoods like Bloomfield (Pittsburgh’s Little Italy) or the Strip District, where you’ll find an array of international markets, restaurants and food vendors.
Pittsburgh’s cultural scene has been significantly shaped by the steel magnates of the past, such as Andrew Carnegie and Henry Clay Frick. Their contributions can be seen in world-class institutions like the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History and The Frick Pittsburgh Museums & Gardens, which offer an impressive collection of art, fossils, and artifacts. While the Heinz History Center does feature impressive ketchup displays, it’s six floors of interactive exhibitions tell the story of the region’s industrial, cultural and sporting past.
RIDE THE INCLINES!
The Duquesne and the Monongahela Inclines are a pair of funiculars that zip up and down the steep slopes of Mt Washington every few minutes. The ornate wooden cable cars, which retain all their original features, which are used by locals and tourists, provide spectacular views of the Pittsburgh skyline, especially at night, while the station at the top has an observation deck to help you take in more of those views. You can make a loop using the two funiculars, going up one, walking along Grandview Ave for about a mile and coming down the other. Tickets cost $5 for a round trip.
BIKE THE BURGH
With 24 miles of riverfront trails and 446 bridges, there are plenty of ways to stay active in Pittsburgh. The Great Allegheny Passage, locally known as the GAP trail, is a 150-mile path that connects to the C&O Canal Towpath leading visitors from Pittsburgh to Washington DC. Rent a bicycle from Bike the Burgh and enjoy a leisurely ride along the Monongahela River. Speaking of bicycles, visit Bicycle Heaven Museum to see the world’s largest collection of two-wheeled, self-propelled transport — with nearly 6,000 bikes on display.
over a waterfall, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore its beautifully preserved interiors and learn about Wright’s visionary philosophy.
General admission starts at $39, offering a rare chance to experience one of America’s greatest architectural treasures.
THRIVING FOOD SCENE
Pittsburgh’s culinary landscape is diverse and thriving, with options that cater to every palate.
Whether you’re in the mood for pierogies, Thai food, or authentic Middle Eastern dishes, the Strip District offers a little bit of everything.
If you want an local food insiders’ view, a ticket for the Burgh Bits & Bites Tour (burghfoodtour.com) is highly recommended, as their knowledgeable and friendly tour guides will make sure you visit all the best places and a get true taste of Pittsburgh hospitality.
SPORTS FANS’ HEAVEN
Whether you’re cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium, watching the Pittsburgh Penguins dominate the ice at PPG Paints Arena, or taking in a Pirates game at PNC Park, Pittsburgh’s sports culture is like no other city in the US. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan of American Football, baseball or ice hockey, the
From classic Pittsburgh sandwiches to high-end dining, the city’s food scene is constantly evolving. Don’t leave without trying a Primanti Bros. sandwich, a Pittsburgh institution
atmosphere and energy during game days are contagious and worth experiencing, so be sure to snap up ringside seats well ahead of time.
A CITY OF SUPRISES
Pittsburgh is a city that defies expectations. It blends history, art, culture, and natural beauty in a way that few other US cities can. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, outdoor enthusiast, or sports fan, there’s something in Pittsburgh that will capture your heart. So, if you’re looking for your next adventure, Pittsburgh is ready to surprise you.
For the latest information about events and activities in Pittsburgh, check out visitpittsburgh.com
■ GAMEDAY AT CRISURE STADIUM
PHOTO CREDIT: STEELERS
■ THE ANDY WARHOL MUSEUM
Les Bordes Builds For The Future With ‘Once In A Lifetime’
Experiences
Nestled in the heart of the enchanting Sologne Forest in France’s majestic Loire Valley, Les Bordes has long been renowned for providing one of the most magical and exclusive experiences in world golf. Words
Greg Evans
Aligned with 46 holes of world-class golf is a collection of luxury private and contemporary accommodation and extensive lifestyle facilities, and invited guests have the unique opportunity to sample all in equal measure this spring and summer with Les Bordes’ recently announced ‘Once in a Lifetime’ experiences.
Launched in conjunction with the Six Senses Residences, the ‘Once in a Lifetime’ o er provides potential golf members and prospective homeowners with the limited one-time chance to immerse themselves in daily life on the 1,400-acre private estate and enjoy all the luxury bene ts
normally reserved for members and residents on visits of up to seven days.
Guests can choose from accommodation in one of Les Bordes’ Michaelis Boyd-renovated lakeside golf cottages or a stylish four or ve-bedroom Cour du Baron villa. A short walk from the golf clubhouse, the refurbished cottages o er comfortable and spacious accommodation in a spectacular setting overlooking the famed Old Course. The Cour du Baron villas are more contemporary and, located in the heart of the estate, have also been created by Michaelis Boyd, an architectural and interior London-based design studio renowned for its award-winning projects across ve continents.
In addition to enjoying the bucket-list golf experience across the globally acclaimed Old Course, golfers can experience a daily round on the ten-hole Wild Piglet short course, which was designed by Gil Hanse and opened in July 2021. Away from the fairways, guests will have full access to the estate’s Country Club, including tennis, equestrian and sports centres, shing and a natural swimming lake.
A guided tour of the estate including the Six Senses development can be provided – which will feature a 50-key hotel and spa and selection of three to seven-bedroom villas – and the residences at Cour du Baron are also among
Michelin Star Renewed As Palmares Restaurant ‘Al Sud’
Palmares Ocean Living & Golf’s ‘AL SUD’ – one of the only Michelin-starred restaurants in European golf – has retained its star for a fth consecutive year while unveiling a new dining concept for 2025. Inspired by the agriculture and gastronomy of the Algarve – particularly the Al-Andalus period, which spanned the eighth to 15th centuries – executive chef Luis Anjos has handcrafted a unique menu from locally sourced ingredients for golfers, visitors, and hotel guests to experience and enjoy.
Each dish is served in a modern and sophisticated setting to e ortlessly blend tradition and luxury, creating one of the only Michelin-starred restaurants at any European golf resort and setting a benchmark for
Portuguese ne dining as a whole.
A key part of the Palmares clubhouse, which was named Europe’s best at the 2024 World Golf Awards, AL SUD enjoys breathtaking panoramic views across Portugal’s southern coastline, the golf course’s ninehole ‘Praia’ loop and the Atlantic Ocean.
the inclusive activities featured. Non-golfers can swap golf for a three-hour package at the estate’s Le Retreat Spa each day while visitors will have the opportunity to relax and unwind at dinner each evening over a food-and-wine tasting menu created by Les Bordes’ Michelin-experienced head chef.
Situated 90 minutes south of Paris, Les Bordes aims to deliver the best combined 46 holes of golf in continental Europe. World number one Scottie Sche er was among the players to visit last summer and made the most of his week spent relaxing and practising at the estate as he claimed gold-medal glory at the Paris Olympics.
The original Old Course, designed by legendary architect Robert Von Hagge, is widely regarded as one of Europe’s masterpieces, while the New Course opened in 2021 and was created by globally acclaimed American architect Gil Hanse.
Neighbouring the historic village of Beaugency, Les Bordes is spread across 1,400 acres of the magni cent Loire Valley and is situated in the UNESCO World Heritage region renowned for historic chateaux, medieval towns, ne wines, great food and unspoiled landscapes.
The estate o ers understated luxury, leisure and sport in a unique setting blessed with glimpses of red deer, wild boar, sweeping lakes and natural habitats. On-site amenities include natural swimming lakes and pools, go-karting, archery, an equestrian centre, tennis, Padel, a pop-up Spa, sports pitch and biking and walking trails, with accommodation available in on-site golf cottages or one of the estate’s substantial residential homes.
A ‘Once in a Lifetime’ experience at Les Bordes for two people is priced at €1,800 per room per night, including breakfast, lunch or dinner and daily golf or spa activities. For more information and to apply, please go to https:// lesbordesestate.com/oial
Anjos said: “The cuisine of the Algarve region is so unique and lled with character, not only now but throughout history – so it was a pleasure to develop this new concept inspired by the Al-Andalus period in particular.
“We have a rule that every dish we create at AL SUD is either inspired by the Algarve, uses local ingredients or both. The new menu is no di erent. Our spectacular location is fantastic inspiration for any chef.”
The coveted Michelin Star must be renewed annually based on the feedback of anonymous specialist inspectors and is the most prestigious honour a restaurant can receive.
Nuno Sepulveda, co-CEO at Details – Sports, Hospitality, Leisure, Palmares Ocean Living & Golf’s management company, said:
“Palmares is an incredible setting for AL SUD, one of only a handful of Michelinstarred restaurants in European golf.
“It’s a privilege for us to be able to o er such a memorable dining experience, which really helps to elevate the golf o ering at Palmares and makes it a benchmark for golf resorts across the continent to follow. From the freshness of the dishes and the originality of the menu to the attention to detail shown in every department, no stone is left unturned in Al SUD’s desire to o er the best dining experience possible to everyone that visits.”
Palmares Ocean Living & Golf is home to an acclaimed 27-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jnr, comprising three nine-hole loops: Lagos, Praia and Alvor.
https://palmaresliving.com/
WIN A THREE-NIGHT GOLF BREAK IN MADEIRA
Golf News have partnered with the Madeira Promotion Bureau to give one fortunate reader the opportunity to win a golf getaway for two in Madeira. This exciting prize includes three nights’ stay at a 4 or 5-star hotel, a Madeira Golf Passport for each winner (which grants access to three rounds of golf), and an exhilarating toboggan ride.
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
Prize details: 3 nights’ accommodation in 4/5 stars for 2 people + 2 Madeira Golf Passports (3 rounds) + Monte Toboggan Sledge ride. Prize dates subject to availability and travel must be within October, November, January, February or March (12 months validity).
adeira is famed for its stunning volcanic landscapes, vibrant history, delectable cuisine, and world-famous wine. The Island is perfect for those wanting more than just golf, there is an abundance of things to do, and the bonus is 3 world class golf courses.
Located o the north-west coast of Africa, the island is often referred to as the ‘island of the eternal spring’ due to its amazingly mild climate, with temperatures ranging from 25°c in the summer to 17°c in the winter.
The main island boosts two of the courses – Palheiro Golf and Clube de Golf Santo da Serra, which has hosted the Madeira Island Open 20 times, while the third, Porto Santo Golfe, lies a short hop away on the island of the same name, one of two that are inhabited in the archipelago. Golf in Madeira o ers a unique experience, with stunning courses set against breathtaking panoramic vistas and the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a true paradise for golf enthusiast.
Have your own Italian Open experience in Tuscany
The Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort, Autograph Collection in southern Tuscany has launched a golf getaway to celebrate its staging of the Italian Open on the prestigious DP World Tour this June when the Resort will host some of golf’s nest professionals.
The package o ers golfers the chance to experience the challenge of the championship course at the Argentario Golf Club, the only PGA National Golf Course in Italy, and play the very same 18 holes that the top pros will take on from June 26 to 29 to secure the country’s national open that dates back to 1925.
of the usual €50), an ideal way to unwind after a demanding day on the golf course.
Set on the Monte Argentario promontory, Argentario’s eco-friendly golf course meanders through corkoak woods and olive groves. The 6,218 metre, par 71 layout features 18 holes boasting spectacular panoramas over the Orbetello Lagoon, the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Monte Argentario hillside. Indeed this unique location creates a microclimate that allows golf to be played at any time of the year.
This unforgettable golf break includes green fees, bed and breakfast accommodation in a design room, access to the comprehensive practice facilities as well as the Resort’s other on-site activities such as padel and tennis courts and a mini football pitch from just Euros 1,368 for three nights for two guests on a shared basis in a Superior Room.
Golfers on this package are able to enhance their stay with a special o er that allows them to book a 25-minute Golfer’s Massage for just €40 per person (instead
A varied and technically challenging course thanks to an array of tight fairways, water hazards and tricky greens, it requires a combination of accuracy and power as well as strategic course management that makes it testing for amateurs and professionals alike.
Part of the Autograph Collection, Marriott International’s premium brand celebrated for its distinctive, hand-selected properties, the Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort promises guests not only fantastic golf, but the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Tuscan way of life.
For further details visit argentarioresort.it/en/
TO ENTER
To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, simply answer the following question, mentioning where you picked up your copy of Golf News, and email it to info@golfnews.co.uk with ‘Madeira Competition’ in the subject line. The closing date for entries is 15th June 2025. For more details on golf in Madeira, visit madeiragolfpassport.com
Château Des Vigiers joins Onyria Group po olio
The Onyria Group – owner of the Onyria Quinta da Marinha Hotel and Onyria Marinha Boutique Hotel in Cascais, Portugal - has just announced that it has taken on the management and operations of Château Des Vigiers, a stunning hotel and leisure venue in southern France.
Situated in the picturesque Dordogne region of France,
a 90-minute drive from Bordeaux, the 150-hectare property
has a total of 65 rooms (comprised of a 16th-century Château with 25 opulent rooms and the 40-room Hotel Relais des Vigiers) and a 27-hole golf course designed by renowned architect Donald Steel.
The château (known as the ‘Petit Versailles’) and surrounding grounds have been carefully restored to luxurious modern standards without sacri cing the historic charm shared with the nearby wine region of Saint-Émilion.
The resort, surrounded by vineyards, also includes a state-of-the-art spa with exclusive treatments by Sothys as well as a Michelin-starred restaurant, les fresques, headed up by acclaimed chef Didier Casaguana. Complementing les fresques is the elegant Bistro, ensuring guests are never short on choice when dining.
The Onyria Group has been a shareholder of Château des Vigiers since the 1990’s and this announcement marks a decisive step in an exciting international expansion.
The existing management and team, which has successfully overseen Château des Vigiers for more than 20 years, will remain in place to ensure continuity and maintain the exceptional standards that the property is known for.
Antonio Pinto Coelho, CEO chairman of the Onyria Group, said: “In addition to being a shareholder since the 1990s, we have had a decades-long relationship with this luxury project, to which we have contributed our experience and expertise. Now, we’re excited to shine a light on this hidden gem, spreading the word and sharing its unique charm with the world! We can integrate it into our o ering, allowing us to once again have a top-tier international presence.”
For more information about the Onyria Group please visit www.onyriagroup. com
When did you rst pick up a golf club?
It was when I was about 8 or 9 in Stirling, I used to play the university golf course…don’t tell anyone but I used to sneak on late in the afternoon.
What’s your favourite golf resort?
I love Gleneagles because I got married there, it has so many things you can do on and o the golf courses. The golf courses are world class as is the all-round service.
Who would be in your ideal holiday four-ball? I should say my wife Gabby but I’m going to say Ally McCoist, as I’m a big Rangers fan, Jimmy Nesbitt, and Tour Pro Bob Macintyre.
What’s your earliest holiday memory?
It was on the Isle of Arran, an island o the west coast of Scotland. I would have been about six years old and remember swimming in a pool, years later my parents told me that I nearly drowned in that pool and had to be dragged out. We used to visit our cousins on a farm and ended up working while we were there.
What’s been your most memorable ight?
I was 19 years old when I was selected to play rugby for Scotland. We had a 24-hour British
Kenny Logan
From Rugby pitches to World-Class Fairways—Former Scotland and Wasps Rugby winger Kenny Logan’s love for travel and golf
Airways ight to Australia, and I remember feeling incredibly nervous. It was an amazing opportunity to travel with the Scotland team and experience a completely di erent culture.
During the ight, we were handed landing cards to ll out, but as someone with dyslexia—a condition I had kept secret from my teammates—I panicked, unsure of how to complete it. That’s when Doddie Weir leaned over and said, ‘Just copy mine.’
I did exactly that. But when I got to customs, the o cer looked at my form and said, ‘You’re not Doddie Weir.’ I had copied the entire thing, including his name! I completely froze, but thankfully, they sorted it out for me.
What’s been your most recent holiday? We’ve just come back from the Maldives. I like going to new places, very rarely do we go back to the same place.
What’s your favourite golf course?
I want to say Turnberry, but I’m going to say Loch Lomond as my favourite, from the moment your drive in through the gates and up to the clubhouse you know you’re in a special place.
What’s been your most memorable round?
On the week of my wedding I got a hole-in-one on the 5th hole at Loch Lomond, a gorgeous hole with the Loch behind the green, that was
memorable but another round I had on the same course, I was standing on the 18th tee only four over par and was on for my best ever round, my caddie said take an iron o the tee and you’ll make a bogey at worst, I didn’t listen, took out my driver and pulled my shot into the water and nished with a 9.
What’s your favourite holiday hotel?
The Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, which was nothing short of spectacular, we went with the kids when they were young, it did have a golf courses, but I didn’t manage to
WHERE I HAD THE MOST UNBELIEVABLE SUSHI I’VE EVER HAD IN MY LIFE; I WOULD LOVE TO GO BACK THERE AGAIN ONE DAY.
play around, but it didn’t matter, the food was incredible, and the children loved it. There’s also been a few we’ve been to in Japan which were very special.
What’s your favourite city in the world?
That’s a close call between Paris and Rome, but Paris just edges it for me, I love the architecture in both cities your average looking building in both Paris and Rome are stunning and I could just walk around the back streets of both for hours.
What’s been your most memorable meal on holiday?
I once had a meal in Japan, I can’t remember the name of the restaurant, but when we arrived with the two children there were only four seats in it. I had the most unbelievable sushi I’ve ever had in my life; I would love to go back there again one day. The culture in Japan has to be experienced.
What your top travel tip?
I always believe your holiday should start at the airport if not when you leave the house, get there early, relax, and read a book or watch something on your iPad, preferably with a glass of champagne in your hand. Just take all the stress out of traveling, nothing worse than getting stressed.
Kenny will be playing in the 2025 Prostate Cancer UK’s Big Golf Race to sign up visit biggolfrace.prostatecanceruk.org
