County WInter 15/16
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Winter Golf Shorter days, poor light, jackets on, the occasional splash in a puddle and biting winds, are all the reasons we keep playing golf through the winter months. Why? Because we’re tough and we like a challenge. What could be more rewarding than striding down the 18th fairway and seeing in your minds eye a steaming coffee and a plate of hot food. After our mammoth feat we can tell everybody all about it. Heroes to the man. But a word of caution here. Talking to the catering people at some golf clubs it would seem that the clubhouses aren’t as well supported as they used to be.
That’s sad as it would be a poor show if we contributed to their demise by not giving them our support. The clubhouse was once the bastion of the golf club. A place where camaraderie reigned. So please think twice before packing your clubs and flying home. Give them support eat and drink there and share in friendly banter. In this months edition we’ve enjoyed playing at Renishaw, Alfreton, Breadsall Priory and at Morley Hayes in the annual tournament. Lefty and Newby also did a spot of golf boarding. Fun all round.
Enjoy your golf this Winter.
The County Golfer Team County
Golfer
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All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written consent is strictly prohibited. The publishers do not accept responsibility for any views expressed, or statements made, in signed contributions or in those reproduced from any other source. No responsibility is borne for any errors made in any advertisement, or for claims made by any advertiser which are incorrect. The publishers reserve the right to refuse advertising for any reason deemed unsuitable. All material submitted is done so at the owner’s own risk and no responsibility is accepted by the publishers for its return. Copyright County Golfer Magazine, Images Publishing Ltd, Origination by Images Publishing Ltd Unit 5, Keys Road, Alfreton, Derbyshire, DE55 7FQ 01773 830344
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In this issue New Developments at Breadsall Priory
Surfing the Fairways at the Nottinghamshire
Back to the Home Of County Golfer at Alfreton
Unearthing Treasure at Renishaw
Follow our local Pro James Whatley
All the latest golf inovations from Golf Support
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The Priory Course at Breadsall Priory Country Club opened in 1977 and offers some of the best golf in Derbyshire. The 6054 yards on the card play a lot more as you wind through steeply undulating parkland around the hotel. There is a premium on accuracy on the Priory as you play through tree-lined fairways to small undulating greens. 6 www.countygolfer.co.uk
Breadsall Priory
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Well this winter just does not want to get started and for a fair weather golfer like myself I could not be happier, so as you will see in the photos we took on the day it looks like the height of summer! This has had a positive effect on golf courses in that they are looking pristine, no more so than the Priory course at the Marriott hotel Derby. County golfer had been invited down to play the Priory course, to see the improvements that have been made to the course over the year, but more on that later. After meeting up with our players of the day, ‘Stav the Greek,’ ‘Badger’ and ‘Newby’ we headed out to the first, which is a nice hole to get you warmed up, a 314 yard par 4. Basically you need to keep your ball up on the right of the fairway as it slopes right to left and can leave you with a difficult uphill shot out of the rough, I know, because that’s where I ended up. My second shot however, ended up on the green this is basically down to me becoming such an expert on hitting it out the rough as that’s where I spend most of my time! I walked away with a par, a good start I thought. Just a note, the next hole is to the right not the left as Stav thought which made him think that the hole was a par 3 at 656 yards long…yes he was looking at the wrong flag. The temptation not to tell him he was facing the wrong way on the tee was high. It was only the thought that he would take out some unsuspecting member on the 3rd fairway that
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turned him round. After we had turned him the right way round he found the green and nearly got a birdie, but as we found out the greens when we played were so fast in fact I must say they were the best greens we had played on so far this year, but saying that it did lead to 3 putt walk of shame! To be fair we were all playing steady golf, I was still wrestling with my slice, but now, after many lessons I know why I’m slicing, no not because I’m a left handed golfer, I’m just not bringing my hand over the top to close the club face. After winding your way down hill on the 4th, you reach your first par 5 at 430 yards long, it is not the longest par 5 in the world, but what makes this an interesting hole is when you reach the green it is raised up high and wrapped behind the green is a high bank. This does help you for your second shot, if you have done a good drive, the chance to have a go at the green. Badger, out of the three was the only one who did a good tee shot, so was the only one in contention to go for it, which he did. He struck the ball but scuffed it, it went flying across the floor, up the bank in front of the green, cleared the green, hit the bank at the back and rolled back down to within a foot of the hole, not the way I’m sure he envisioned it, but it worked. The next hole needs an accurate tee shot, anything to the left leaves you having to tee off again, let’s just say the reason why is, if you don’t have a chainsaw in your bag then forget it.
This does lead us however to a cheeky par 3, which is only 120 yards long but is slightly down hill, you either have to drop it on the green like a bomb or just short and then roll on, but with the greens the way they were, this was not an option, I went for the bomb shot and landed on the green and managed a solid par. I don’t think there is any thing quite as satisfying as landing a well struck ball high in the air and dropping it next to the flag.
We were playing steady golf now, and getting to grips with the greens and really enjoying our golf on this hot sunny day. Let me bring you along to arguably one of the best driving holes in Derbyshire, in fact I challenge you to let me know if you think there is one better. It is a real thing of beauty the 11th 358yrd par 4, you stand on an elevated tee looking down on to an immaculate fairway, you www.countygolfer.co.uk 9
“
...you stand on a really high tee looking down on the green...
” “
know the type, you can see the lines, where the greenkeeper has mowed that morning. If you don’t believe me go to our Facebook page and see the photos and while we are on this subject you can watch a video of us teeing off on the 9th a tricky par 4. I must admit we teed off twice on the 11th just because we had to! Now let’s move on to some of the improvements that have been made this year. Steve Turner the director of golf at Breadsall and the greenkeepers, have identified where the new improvements needed to be made, this is especially evident on the 15th where they have made good use of the water. It 10 www.countygolfer.co.uk
now runs down the side of the fairway in the form of tiered ponds. When it comes to the green they have made it so that the water cuts close around the back of the green giving it an island feel. It’s a nice improvement. I must mention the 17th as this is a cracking par 3. You stand on a really high tee looking down on the green. I love holes like this one that look visually stunning and also get you scratching your head as to which club to use. I must admit I changed clubs three times after watching the others tee off - here is a tip for you - it is an a 8 iron.
After we walked off the 18th we reflected on good and bad shots but mainly the 11th . The improvements made by the 15th hole, the greens which, as stated before, were in top condition. It is good to see that Steve and his team have a real vision for the Priory Course and are still looking to bring in new features. Let’s face it we all love playing a course where you see new developments from the previous time it was played. We look forward to returning to see more.
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WINTER GOLF Tea/Coffee & Bacon Roll with 18 Holes of Golf for just £25 per person.
TWILIGHT GOLF MEMBERSHIP Perfect for the golfer with a busy lifestyle
Play from: April - September after 3pm, March & October 1pm, November - February after 11am Telephone: 01332 836016 *Terms and conditions apply
The Shire London Announces Winter Treats BARNET, NORTH LONDON, UK – If you can see your breath in the chilly air, then it’s likely that The Shire London – one of England’s most popular golf day venues – is offering special rates for fourballs and groups.
And the coming winter is no different at the north London golf club, which features the UK’s only full Seve Ballesteros-designed golf course. The new ‘Legends Winter Offer’ at The Shire London is valid from Monday, November 2nd 2015. From that date, special rates apply for Winter Fourballs, at just £155 per fourball MondayThursday, and £165 on Fridays. All four golfers receive coffee and bacon rolls on arrival, and a Chef’s Special meal in the clubhouse after they have played the 7,028 Ballesteros Masters course. Larger groups also receive a superb winter deal at the highly-rated golf club, which is ranked inside England’s Top 20 golf courses on Golfshake.com after over 150 independent reviews by golfers who have played Seve’s challenging and spectacular track. Each golfer in a group booking of 12 or more receives an 18-hole green fee plus morning coffee and bacon rolls and a 1-course Chef’s Special meal for as little as £40 per person on weekdays between November 2015 and the
end of March 2016 at The Shire London. Each such group also enjoys a dedicated Starter on the first tee, private dining room, free Nearest The Pin and Longest Drive competitions, and the group organiser plays for free. “It will soon be time, once again, to throw on a couple of extra layers and come to play Seve’s masterpiece at our winter discount rates” said Director at The Shire London, Ceri MenaiDavis. “This is something we do each year, to reduce the pain of having to wave the summer goodbye! “We are not the UK’s favourite new golf day destination for nothing” he continued. “Although we are only approaching our 8th winter season, word has spread throughout the country that The Shire London has the perfect cold-weather combination of a brilliant, wellmaintained golf course plus international-class facilities, at an exceptionally fair price. “I guarantee you will never forget playing the Ballesteros Masters Course, and you’ll not find a warmer winter welcome anywhere in the UK”. Call 020 8441 7649 or email golf@theshirelondon.com to book your winter deal at The Shire London.
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ALFRETON GOLF CLUB Situated close to Alfreton and the A38 and set in an idyllic setting of peace and quiet, Alfreton Golf club is a hidden gem.
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We arrived at 9.15 on a sunny September Friday morning to see a couple of four balls finishing their round and nipping into the changing rooms. By the time we had a quick chat to pro Nev Hallam. they were back out all suited and booted ready for a day’s work. “That’s good enough for me too” I thought. “Let’s get a coffee” said Brian but the clubhouse was closed until ten, so off we went. (I was a touch miffed because my idea of golf is bacon cob and coffee before the off.) However, the way I played, I’m stopping the cob and coffee lark because it must affect my game in a bad way! I’ve been determined this year to improve my game. I talk to so many who tell me they play off 8. I know I’ll never get there but you have to have dreams. But for once in my life I would like to go round in 15 over and smash my handicap. The only other option is just to do nine holes. That should bring it under 100! The first thing I’ve done is ditch the driver as I’m far too wayward with it. I’ve become quite attached to my three iron as it’s getting me fair distance and a little bit better accuracy on occasions. For instance on the steep uphill seventh ( or is it the 9th?) I went straight up and over the hill something I have rarely done with a driver because I get too excited and, wanting distance, I fluff it every time. My next quest was to keep my head down. I’m sick of people keep shouting “head up”.
If I hear that again I’m sure someone will have “head off”. So into the first at Alfreton. Which is er... well as we have played over the years here generally been opposite the clubhouse main entrance. Reading the scorecard later we realised the first is now behind the clubhouse giving four par four holes in a row so please add two to every hole you read here, the first is the third, fourth sixth etc which makes the clubhouse the twenty first! If you are playing the full 18 you will go to some holes twice but play off different tees and share the fairway with someone playing the other hole. At this point deduct two from the first number 16 www.countygolfer.co.uk
you thought of and just play golf on this lovely course. Sun shining, head down and away. I went towards the trees and Brian went deep into them. “I went in the ditch last time” he said. Being a straightforward hole at off the white tee, this should be a relatively simple par but once on the green I had to contend with the downward slope. The greens were in beautiful condition and fast. That’s my excuse for gliding past the hole leaving me an uphill putt which I left short. So, teeing off good - now my puttings gone awol. Isn’t golf great? Brian had decided to relive old times and try to get in the ditch again but missed it! (Just) Bizarrely I won that hole!
Playing hole two off the elevated tee we got off well. My second shot though was a bit wild. I was connecting well but not as accurate as I would like, as my second shot sailed past the first tee and a chip over (through) the trees which by some miracle landed on the green. Brian had slightly over hit his second to the back of the green and had a tricky uphill put to win. He did. Alfreton is a pretty tight course. You need to be accurate which makes it a good test of your game. There’s no gung-ho hold here on the front nine. You can do that on ten and eleven.
Brian was straight and true on hole 3 (276 yards) He came away with a par. On a summers day you can get a nice run down the slope if you drive a bit short, but today the dew was quite heavy and held my ball up- five for me here Hole 4 is a tricky par 3. Get clean over the water and then ensure you are below the flag as the green has a nasty slope. The flag was pretty central so I opted for left of it. I did get there, albeit a little more left than required and carded a four. Brian fell a little short but chipped up well and finished off with a clinical putt. Goodness knows where my ball went on www.countygolfer.co.uk 17
hole 5. I watched it follow the line of the trees nicely and then drop but we couldn’t find it amongst the rough and leaves. “Stick to the fairway”, said Brian. Do you know I can never see the flag on hole 5. Every time I look up it’s gone! Anyway this was Brian’s hole. The greens were playing straight and true as usual which is a very strong point at Alfreton. I went long on the downhill par 3 173 yard 6th. But I was happy because keeping my head down was working. Club choice is next job. I got 4. Brian got par. Grrrrr. I’ve told you about my glorious uphill shot at the dogleg 7th, my second was slightly short but a chip saved the day. Honours even here. Again my driving was good and long on the 8th albeit a little to the right. I was happy to come off with a bogey. Driving over the little bridge is the fun challenge for me at Alfreton, because you only need a chip on to the green and then a putt for a par. Brian got it right. I didn’t. Distance good. Accuracy slightly askew. We had to shake hands on the 9th as duty called for Brian and we needed a bite to eat before departure. We admit to being slow players on the day but there was no one following and so we chatted and played the longest nine in history. So a re-
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match is planned. The clubhouse has been run by Anje and James Gordon for nearly a year now. It’s a twofold arrangement. Anje cares for the clubhouse and James runs a street food business. His bright yellow Citroen van is often seen at the club They have a nice skill with food although I do fear that golfers who just want pie and chips on the cheap are missing out on some very tasty food from these two foodies. You can’t have both guys. Quality food isn’t cheap. Cheap food is cheap. Get your hands in your pockets and stump up some cash. Stop ordering pots of tea with four straws! We had a super morning of golf and would encourage you to put Alfreton on your list of places to play. Whilst you do go round 7 of the holes twice, the tees are set challengingly to ensure they give a different aspect to each hole. The top quality greens are a testament to the dedication of the small team of greens staff. They really do look after this course, as one member said “I’m sure if a leaf falls they’re out instantly sweeping it up”. You’re in for a real treat at Alfreton. Don’t miss out. Ps. If you haven’t played here for a while get a scorecard. In that way you’ll start on the right hole !
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The Nottinghamshire Buggy
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GolfBoard best new product PGA Merchandise Show 2014
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Not many people know but I’m a surfer in fact I’m what you call a “hardcore surfer”, why? Because I live in the Midlands nowhere near the sea, in fact the nearest good surf spot to me is the North Bay Scarborough, freezing cold brown water, but yet me and my surf buddy John get up there every month. Why am I telling you this? Because something new has arrived on the golf market, something that really interests me - a “GolfBoard”, in the manufacturers own words they say “it’s like surfing the earth”. So when the call came in from the Nottinghamshire Golf and Country Club saying that they had some and asking “Would you like to try them out?” The answer was of course yes! The boards themselves are steered very much like surf boards by adjusting your weight and leaning either to the left or right. The speed is controlled by a little lever which, the more you push it down the faster you go. Where do you put your bag you may ask? As you can see from the pictures you strap it to the front. Well what can I say about them? Fun, fun, fun. We had a great time weaving down the fairways although we got some strange looks from the more traditional golfers, tutting under their breaths. But overall the few golfers we talked to, young and old, could not wait to give them a try. It did, to be honest though, make playing so much easier. Instead of you both sitting in a buggy waiting while your partners hit their ball then driving over to where your ball is, you both go your separate ways. It does speed things along. Just a word of warning, the turning circle is not the best, so give yourself plenty of room to manoeuvre. The slower you go the harder it is to turn and this made it a bit hairy sometimes, especially when you are heading to a small bridge over water and you aren’t quite ‘square on’ to go over it! It’s not too much of a problem at most of Nottinghamshire golf courses, but we did have a laugh picturing members flying around at such golf courses as Sickleholme and Glossop GC. You can just imagine people out of control whizzing down the hills of Derbyshire and getting stuck on zigzag pathways. On the wide flat fairways of the Nottinghamshire Golf and Country club you don’t need to worry about that. Over all you can count me in. I love this product, in fact it did win best new product at the PGA Merchandise Show 2014. My advice is to get down to the Nottinghamshire Golf and Country club and give it a go… go on! Don’t get stuck in the past, embrace the future, what have you got to loose except your reputation! www.countygolfer.co.uk 23
Do you have questions about your Pension? *How much tax free cash can we have? Can we now get more from our annuity? Can we reduce our existing pension charges?
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Morley Hayes Golf Day - 2015 The day we look forward to most out of the year is the Morley Hayes golf day, associates are invited to battle it out for the chance to be crowned victors and therefore hold their heads up high every time they come to play Morley Hayes. The County Golfer team was Fame Tate, Spence, Lefty and Newby. You would have thought that these gladiators of golf would have smashed their way to the top but instead they smashed their way mid table...Rubbish! Next time we will assemble ‘Two Putt Plant’ and his
team of hip replacement seniors who I’m sure will fair a lot better! All in all though the day was fantastic, especially with the improvements made to the course and the new tee which now plays over water on the 9th. So if you have not played there for awhile then I’m sure you will be pleasantly surprised. We here at County Golfer would like to thank the Allsop’s, their golf team and staff for a first class experience. Below are the winning teams who could play golf on the day...
1st Place
Tioga – Angela Williams, Warwick Adams, Mark Rowen & Mike Thompson
2nd Place
3rd Place
Beechwood Mazda – Mike Wood, Tim Walker, Geoff Hill & Tom Wood
John Deere – Howard Storey, Andy Wood, Adam Jones & Steve Bravery
Nearest Pin…
Longest Drive
Jackie Hattersley & Lefty (substituting for Richard Pigott)
Stuart Evans & Angela Williams
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Renishaw Golf Course Back in 1911 Renishaw Hall owner Sir George Sitwell decided that he would create a golf course on his estate. His plan; 9 holes played within the parkland of the hall, and 9 holes running alongside the River Roth. The 16th century hostelry would be converted into a clubhouse and later extended with the addition of a new wing. Wind the clocks forward to today and the well-established course and beautifully characteristic clubhouse have really come into their own and stand out as one of the areas classic courses. The member’s certainly have a lot to thank Sir Richard Sitwell for.
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It’s not always been easy sailing for the club though, in recent years they’ve had a lot to contend with. In fact the last time County Golfer visited the club it was starting to recover from a major flood, that had left the whole of the back 9 under water. Now though, fully recovered, myself and Lefty would be playing Renishaw at its best and with the sun shining on us, we set out on the perilous navigation across the A6135 (you have to be quick and have nerves of steel!) with Spence in tow, to see what Renishaw had to offer. The old cliché of a game of two halves is never more relevant than here, the front 9 is hilly and tight, a driver requires real accuracy (not my current strength), especially this time of year too. As with most courses in the autumn, if you land in the trees there’s a blanket of leaves on the ground waiting to conceal your ball. Irons
were definitely the order of the day, for the opening 9 at least. The opening hole has been used for the front cover of the clubs officially brochure, and it is easy to see why. It feels as though it’s the only golf hole for miles around, with mature trees to either side and below the elevated tee. “I could drive this” was my initial thought, but club secretary Andy Smith convinced me otherwise, “yes it’s drivable, if you’re very accurate with your drive, if you miss the fairway though you are in trouble”, simply put, he was right. An iron down the fairway and a simple chip onto the green for a par/birdie builds your confidence nicely. Being a fair weather golfer; when the sky is a brilliant deep blue, I’m down to a t-shirt and playing a course as mature and beautiful as Renishaw, then I’m in my www.countygolfer.co.uk 29
element. The gold autumnal trees only add to the picturesque nature of the course. I love to see big mature trees on the golf course, though I’d rather it be from a reasonable distance, close up is not so good, which is where I kept finding myself. The greens staff have done a fantastic job of maintaining the course, so when you’re off line it makes your life tough, but not impossible. A yard off the fairway and you’ll be fine, then if you are under a tree you can still find your ball with ease, and it will still be playable. No one likes missing the fairway by two yards and never seeing their ball again, it takes the fun out of the game for anyone that’s not playing scratch. It’s a fine balance that’s needed and I 30 www.countygolfer.co.uk
think Renishaw have hit it perfectly, it’s an example of how rough should be. The 9th hole is the course’s signature hole, and it’s a sight to behold, as with the majority of the front my driver stayed firmly in my bag, even though it was a straight 304 yard up hill par 4. You just can’t afford to be left or right, or even short for that matter. Left and you’ll vanish into infinity with a 0% chance of finding your ball. Right is a little better, it’s a big wooded area that’s virtually unplayable. The only thing to do is to land on the right hand side of a narrow fairway that slopes to the left. Now I’m fully aware that my description of this hole makes it sound
Very Bad
Good
Bad
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like torture to play, but it’s really not. It’s an absolute cracker, you just have to wind down the power and hit 2 accurate iron shots. It’s a beautiful challenge! (Unless you get it wrong of course, in which case it might be a nightmare!). One final comment on the back 9, there is a vicious rumour that there are no bunkers on the front 9, this is not correct! Spence will vouch for the fact that there are at least 3, and that’s how many he ended up in! The back 9 couldn’t be any different if it tried, the front 9 is open and has 6 par 4s and 3 par 3s, where as the back 9 is open and has 4 par 5s. This makes it a good all round test of your game. For me one of the outstanding features 32 www.countygolfer.co.uk
of the course are the greens, they are immaculate, smooth, true and fast, the sort of conditions that you’d expect to find on tour courses. They’re an absolute pleasure to putt on, and with very little variation between each green, once you’ve tuned in to them, you can really putt with confidence. Once back in the 16th century clubhouse, reflecting on our round, we we’re caught up in the banter of the members that had just finished playing a fiddle. The camaraderie and the atmosphere amongst the members really goes to show why they have such a strong membership. All in all, it’s a great all round course, great challenge of golf, great clubhouse and great members. Give it a visit; you’ll be glad you did.
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VISITING PARTIES VISITING & PARTIES AWAY & DAYS AWAY DAYS
2016 2016
From a grand scale charity or corporate tournament, to a golf day for select group of clients, Renishaw Park Golf Club offers a fully comprehensive service designed to eliminate the stress From a grand scale charity or corporate tournament, and time theofperfect to a involved golf day in fororganising select group clients,event. Renishaw Park Golf Club offers a fully Here at Renishaw, ourdesigned aim is totonot only meet comprehensive service eliminate theyour stress expectations but exceed them, and the highest and time involved in organising thewith perfect event. quality of service, catering in our Centenary Room Restaurant and expert coaching Here at Renishaw, our aim is to notfrom onlyqualified meet your PGA Golf Professionals course, expectations but exceed them, and and of with the highest ourquality renown to play on, we believe that is ofperfect service,greens catering in our Centenary Room whatcoaching we will do! Restaurant exactly and expert from qualified PGA Golf Professionals and of course, Offering a full to service including: our renown perfect greens play on, we believe that is exactly what we will do!
NEAREST PINS, LONG DRIVES, Offering a fullRESULTS service including: SCORECARD SERVICE. NEAREST PINS, LONG DRIVES, SCORECARD RESULTS SERVICE.
Est.1911
RENISHAW PARK GOLF CLUB RENISHAW PARK www.renishaw park golf.co.uk GOLF CLUB Est.1911
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Only 1 Mile from the M1
RENISHAW PARK GOLF CLUB, MILL LANE, RENISHAW, SHEFFIELD, S21 3UZ On the Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire boarders
Sitwell Arms Hotel within 400yards of the EMAIL: secretary@renishawparkgolf.co.uk TEL:clubhouse 01246 432 044 RENISHAW PARK GOLF CLUB, MILL LANE, RENISHAW, SHEFFIELD, S21 3UZ EMAIL: secretary@renishawparkgolf.co.uk
TEL: 01246 432 044
EREWASH VALLEY GOLF CLUB
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CHRISTMAS CRACKER SOCIETY PACKAGE OFFER (Minimum of 8 Players)
18 Holes on our Winter Course and a Two Course Meal With Coffee
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Sickleholme Golf Club
A warm welcome guaranteed! Why not book in for a round of golf in the beautiful surroundings of the Hope Valley? The course offers spectacular views with challenging golf on well maintained fairways and greens. We are always happy to discuss your requirements whatever size of group you are. After golf you can enjoy a drink or lunch in our friendly bar, or out on the patio - our catering has a fine reputation! IDEAL FOR
CAPTAINS’ AWAY DAY Visit our website for more details
WINTER DAILY FOURBALL DEAL The well draining course plays well all winter with no temporary greens.
Weekday £60 per fourball Weekend £80 per fourball
Sickleholme Golf Club, Bamford, Derbyshire S33 0BN Phone: +44 (0)1433 651306 enquiries@sickleholme.co.uk
Visit www.sickleholme.co.uk for more details
www.countygolfer.co.uk 35
On tour with a local pro:
James Whatley James Whatley, writes for County Golfer, informing us about the life of one of Derbyshire’s top Professionals. James is AA PGA Professional, Head Professional of Morley Hayes and Academy Director of East Midlands Golf Academy.
He is currently the Derbyshire Open Champion , has represented Great Britain and Ireland in the PGA cup against the USA, played for England in the International Team Championships and played on the European Tour. His reputation as a consistent player and a highly regarded coach is recognised by top class amateurs and professionals who regularly seek his advice and knowledge on their own games.
Since writing in July I’ve played a lot of golf and the season has now drawn to an end. I’ve finished 4th in the PGA Midland Region Order of Merit, winning the first event, followed by an 11th, 7th and 17th finish. Although I was a little disappointed not to finish in the top 3, which would have got me into the PGA playoffs, I was still very happy with my game. The biggest difference this year is, I’ve enjoyed my golf so much more than previous years. I’ve learned to accept the outcome so much better. I think any golfer of any level can benefit from this. I’ve had glimpses this year of my long game being where I really know it should be. I shot a bogey free round of 66 in the Pro am at Morley Hayes. I had spent the last 8 years working the ball left to right, and the last 12 months I’ve tried to see it the other way. As a kid growing up, I have always hit a draw so it wasn’t a big change. I’ve really enjoyed going to see Graham Walker 36 www.countygolfer.co.uk
up in York for my lessons this year. It has made me prioritise some time for myself away from work. I feel it has really benefited my own coaching. Being put in the position of learning new things is really important as a coach, as it brings you back to earth and makes you understand how your clients feel. On more of a down note, I’ve felt I’ve picked more injuries up this year, what with my dancing accident, I’ve also struggled with my back. The next 6 months will be spent doing a lot of core exercises and I definitely won’t be lifting the weights I did last year. I’m not afraid to say I’ve made some mistakes, but as the saying goes, “if you’re not winning, you’re learning” I must mention that I was yet again in a playoff for the Derbyshire PGA Championships which this year was held at Chesterfield . I shot rounds of 67 and 68 to be – 7 for the 36 holes.
I then lost in a 6 hole playoff to good friend Ian Walley. The tournament in the past has been kind to me, with three wins, 3 runner up spots but this year it wasn’t to be. It was great to see Ian win the event for the first time, he has won every other event in Derbyshire at some point, but somehow this had eluded him. Well done.
Major Predictions The Masters – Rory McIlroy The US Open- Henrik Stenson The Open- Matt Kuchar ( Dustin Johnson) The USPGA – Tiger Woods As you can see, I was terrible at predicting the major winners. It will be really interesting to see what the next 12 months bring. I’ve been a massive Tiger Woods fan, seeing him dominate for so many years, I‘ve always hoped he would show his brilliance again. Unfortunately with the injuries he’s had I don’t see him competing on a regular basis again. The biggest difference in my opinion is his putting. Compared to ten years ago, he just doesn’t hole out from 10ft as well as before. I think he still may pop up with the odd tournament, probably the Masters but his time is limited I feel.
Give the Gift of a Golf Lesson If you would like to give the gift of a Golf lesson this Christmas please contact me. The vouchers will be valid for 12 months and can be taken with any of the four EMGA Professionals. Please email me james@emga.co.uk or give me a call on 07841 922 399
Tip for your winter practice
going to hit your balls. For an example; A basket off 55 balls at the driving range at Morley Hayes could be 5 x SW 60 yards 5 x SW 80 yards 5 x PW 5 x 8 iron 5 x 6 iron 5 x4 iron 5 x rescue 5 x 3 wood 5 x driver 5 balls with your favourite club at 5 different targets 5 x SW 60 yards to cool down This is a very basic idea, you could break it down more into which clubs you will work on, your technique and which clubs you will just hit without any swing thoughts. Another good way would be to have a course planner in your bag and play your home course on the range. I love doing this, as it makes me be creative and not just stand there beating balls. I also think it’s important through the winter that you carry hitting off grass. One of the benefits of being at Morley Hayes for so long, is it gives me the chance to play off proper tees, fairways and greens all year round. As we don’t have members at Morley Hayes, I teach a lot of members from surrounding clubs, and it’s interesting to hear that they are leaving because they have had to play off mats even in the rough. I understand fairways mats from a certain distance in, but in the rough is taking it too far in my opinion, especially when memberships aren’t cheap!!
When you head to the range this winter I would suggest jotting down how you are www.countygolfer.co.uk 37
On tour with a local pro:
James Whatley
EMGA Ladies This year has been the biggest year at Morley Hayes for getting new ladies into golf. At least 40 new ladies have taken part in a 6 week beginner’s course, following it with an intermediate course. Many of the ladies are now out playing the Tower Course. They have created a network of friends and are really having fun. On the first week, I always put up a bottle of wine for the winner of the putting competition. #puttforpinot If you have any ladies in your life that may be interested in taking golf up, in a relaxed, fun environment, please get them to email me on james@emga.co.uk
East Midlands Golf Academy To remind you all of what we can offer at EMGA , we have access to Flightscope which tracks your distance, clubhead speed, path, face angle and many more aspects of your swing.
38 www.countygolfer.co.uk
We also have the SAM Putt Lab which measures 29 characteristics of your stroke.
If you would like to book a lesson to have your game evaluated and let me help you get your game in shape for 2016, please email me on james@emga.co.uk
Ask James
? ??
?
For the articles next year, I would like to make it a little more interactive. I want to invite you to email me why you most need a lesson, I will then choose the one I feel needs the most attention to have a free 30 minute lesson with myself, and we will report back on it in the next article.
Send me an email to james@emga.co.uk Have a good winter and make sure you are working smart on your game. Best Regards
James www.countygolfer.co.uk 39
Tips for
Win ter Golf
It is that time of year again that most golfers hate. However, rather than putting the clubs away for a few months, now is the perfect time to work on your game and be on great form for the Spring. Here are a few tips that I feel are important to get through the winter golfing season on the golf course!
40 www.countygolfer.co.uk
Tips for Win ter Golf
•
Keep yourself warm
•
You can be out on the golf course for a long time and golf can be extremely miserable if you are cold. It is so important to wear appropriate clothing and from my own experience, you need to layer up. That way, if you do start to feel warm, you can easily take a layer of clothing off. I highly recommend fleece lined trousers.
•
Keep your hands warm
•
Your hands are the only contact that you have with the club and once your hands are cold, you will lose “feel”. Invest in a good pair of winter mitts that you can put on in-between shots, or alternatively purchase a pair of thin thermal gloves that you can wear all of the time.
•
On a freezing cold day, play with a softer compression golf ball. A hard golf ball will feel like you are hitting a rock. We have all experienced that feeling when you do not make solid contact on a freezing cold day and it resonates up the shaft to your hands…..it HURTS!!!
•
When visibility is not so good and the rough is thick, try using a yellow ball. Studies show that they are twice as easy to see as a white ball.
•
The ball will not fly as far in the cold so remember to use more club.
•
When the ground is hard, use it to your advantage. Adopt more of a “links” style approach to your game, particularly around the greens. Play more chip and runs rather than floating shots to the pin.
•
If winter rules are in place, use them to your benefit. The most common local rule at this time of year is preferred lies, whereby you are able to mark your ball on a closely mown area, pick it
up, clean it and then replace it within six inches, no nearer the hole. I would recommend that you do this on every shot if you can as the ball may look clean from above however, you do not know what is on the under side of the ball. Mud on a golf ball will affect ball flight and the direction in which it travels once hit.
•
Generally speaking, as the ground is wetter in winter, the greens will be slower so allow for less break on the putting surface.
•
Pay more attention to your club selection when the ball is in the rough as thick wet rough will grab the club head.
•
The courses will be playing shorter due to the winter tees and greens so you will still have to adapt your normal course strategy. You will experience “plugged” lies and funny bounces so take the rough with the smooth, be realistic and don't be too hard on yourself.
•
Have fun and enjoy your winter golf!!
Newby’s tip - Hip Flask!
www.countygolfer.co.uk 41
Ruddington Grange Golf Club weddings • golf • corporate events • conferences
Alfreton Golf Club
Join a welcoming, friendly Private Parkland Golf Club 1/2 mile from the A38
Celebrating its120th Anniversary Winter golf offers too good to miss from October 2015 - March 2016 Winter Special (Mon to Tues): Coffee, bacon roll & round of golf: £17 Round of golf & steak pie: £20 Winter Special (Wed to Fri): Coffee, bacon roll & round of golf £20 Round of golf & steak pie £24 Winter Special (Sunday): Coffee, bacon roll & round of golf £22
Round of golf & steak pie: £25
Call the pro shop on: 0115 9214139 Wilford Road, Ruddington, Nottingham NG11 6NB www.ruddingtongrange.co.uk | info@ruddingtongrange.co.uk
COMPETITION RESULTS
SECRETARY’S!
Send us your golf results! For free inclusion in the Results section of County Golfer magazine and to appear online at www.countygolfer.co.uk simply send your results to garry@countygolfer.co.uk
Ladies & Gentlemen Membership Available Junior Section Membership Available
Monthly Payment of £57.20 guaranteed not to rise for two years. Immediate membership available* *Subject to application
Contact the Secretary on
01773 832070 or 07966 547334
Competitions most weekends in the summer and winter.
16 friendly matches a year against local clubs. Over Twenty Social Events Per Year.
COURSE BLACK ay at 5850 yards
available to pl without a Par 5
A true test of golf
Green Fees From 1 November 2015
£12 with member £17 without
Societies please call for more information. Groups of 12 or more £15 each for 18 holes Special deals are available throughout the season. emises.
Fully Licensed Pr
ll stocked bar Food served plus a we your visit We look forward to
ALFRETON GOLF CLUB Affiliated to the
English Golf Union and Derbyshire Union of Golf Clubs
Highfield, Wingfield Road, Oakerthorpe, Alfreton, Derbyshire DE55 7LH
Telephone: 01773 832070 42 www.countygolfer.co.uk
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• Enhanced course reports including videos • Local golf news added daily • Incredible golf deals • Follow Lefty & Newby as it happens • All the latest pictures and videos from Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire
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STAY SHARP DURING THE OFF-SEASON WITH THE WINTER SERIES AT THE BELFRY The Belfry Hotel & Resort is launching a unique series of events over the next five months, which provides the rare opportunity for amateurs and professionals to compete against each other on the legendary Brabazon course. The Winter Series consists of monthly events, starting in November, where competitors can compete for a prize fund of up to £500. Following The Belfry’s recent 30th Ryder Cup anniversary, this new series provides the perfect opportunity for you and your friends to create your own memorable moments at the legendary four-time Ryder Cup host venue, whilst keeping your game sharp in a competitive format over the off-season. All competitors will compete in an individual stableford format, and welcome professionals and amateurs of all abilities, up to an 18 handicap. Prizes will be awarded at each individual event, and scores will also contribute to an overall Order of Merit, the final standings for which will be based upon the best four stableford scores over the four events. The events will take place on 10th November, 8th December, 12th January, 9th February and 8th March and entry costs £50 for nonBelfry members and £40 for Belfry members. Places are filling fast, so it is important to get your entries in as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this unique opportunity. Practice rounds will also be offered to competitors for a
48 www.countygolfer.co.uk
discounted rate of £25 in the week leading up to the event. Alongside the Ryder Cup, The Brabazon course has played host to numerous highprofile European Tour events over the years, including the Quinn British Masters from 200608, and has seen an illustrious list of winners. The Winter Series gives you the opportunity to put your name alongside the likes of Lee Westwood, Paul Casey and Henrik Stenson, who have all had success at the famous Midlands venue. In addition to the world-class golf on offer, guests can experience an evening at The Belfry’s award winning signature restaurant, The Ryder Grill and a night cap in the hotels Brabazon bar, followed by an overnight stay in one of the 319 luxurious guest bedrooms at The Belfry Hotel & Resort. For further information and to make your entry to The Winter Series please visit www.thebelfry.co.uk
DERBYSHIRE ALLIANCE GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH The 2015 season saw Golfsupport Owner John Lines take Captaincy and John was on a mission to drive the Alliance in the right direction. His business Golfsupport put forward a Grand Prize of a Custom fit set of Golf Clubs to the Alliance member who introduced the most newcomers to the Alliance during the 2015 season. The Alliance was opened to surrounding counties including Nottinghamshire, Johns home county. The incentive has secured the Alliance on a great footing for 2016 with a staggering growth in members and participants.
and determined to make an impact. As my roots with Derbyshire have a 20 year history, the Derbyshire Alliance have welcomed us with open arms giving myself and my young Professionals the chance to compete against fellow Professionals’. The image shows our Golfsupport Store manager and head custom fitter Richard Candlin presenting the winner Kevin Inger with his new equipment. Having recently had a new set of irons we swapped the prize for custom fit woods instead. Golf is a declining game and we hope to see more Nottinghamshire based Professionals and Amateurs enjoying some of the great venues Derbyshire has to offer in 2016. Any interested players should email johndirect on pro@golfsupport.com
John added - ‘When asked to be Derbyshire Alliance Captain I was flattered
www.countygolfer.co.uk 49
COMPETITION RESULTS
Golfing
News
WILLIAMS LEADS DERBY TO VICTORY
Josh Williams (Chevin GC) led Derby College to victory in the 1st round of the British Schools & Colleges Golf Tour held at Cavendish GC on Wednesday 23rd September 2015. Josh posted a best of the day GROSS 72, in tough windy conditions to lead the field by 1 stroke from Nathan Fell of Balby Carr College. Derby College A team won the GROSS event returning a score of 299, 7 strokes ahead of Balby College on 306.. Williams was supported by Will Davidson (Breadsall Priory) 74-0-74, James Wadsworth (Chesterfield) 75-3-72. With 4 scores out of 6
50 www.countygolfer.co.uk
counting, Olivia Kelly (Erewash Valley) 78-4-74, Ethan Rockley (Breadsall Priory) 79-3-76 and Tom Naylor (Hallamshire) 82-5-77 Derby A team head the league with 6 points ahead of Balby A in second place with 5 points. PERFORMANCE GOLF ACADEMY DERBY programme manager Nigel Furniss commented; “A great start to the 2015 season with a win for The A Team. Some good performances, in particularly Josh Williams posting the best gross score of the day. A great season beckons for the Team.”
Oakmere Park Golf Club. Admirals Golf course competition results 3 October 2015 MEDAL & QR WHITE TEES The Medal Final Trophy Winner is Craig Brewster Div 1: 1st Craig Brewster net 70pts, 2nd Shaun Cade net 70pts, 3rd Darron Broughton net 73pts, 4th Troy Anderson net 73pts Div 2: 1st Shaun Robinson net 70pts, 2nd Tony Eaton net 71pts, 3rd Jeevan Sandhu net 74pts, 4th Ian Hayes net 74pts Div 3: 1st Steve Robinson net 71pts, 2nd Bill Hunter net 71pts, 3rd Jeff Swinburn net 74pts, 4th Bob Ward net 74pts Oakmere Park’s course record was broken by golf nut Jason Davies. Finally after years of practice and tinkering Davies found a fault free day. Posting a Nett66 Davies says it’s the first time he’s ever had a bogey free round. The One handicapper made mincemeat of the par 5s, birdies on the 1st and 11th topping off with an Eagle on 15. Oakmere Park Golf Club. Commanders Golf course competition results 2 October 2015 Seniors Stableford Div 1: 1st Jim Taylor 41pts, 2nd Brian Arrowsmith 34pts, 3rd Allan Dallman 33pts, 4th Terry Watkins 32pts Div 2: 1st Prakash Ross 37pts, 2nd John Glover 34pts, 3rd Leslie Smith 33pts, 4th Harold Jordan 31pts
6 October 2015 Tuesday Stableford Div 1: 1st George Elliott 38pts, 2nd Raph Richards 36pts, 3rd Eugene Murphy 35pts Div 2: 1st Leslie Smith 34pts, 2nd Mick Riley 32pts, 3rd Gordon Taylor 29pts 4th October 2015 Hardy Trophy Div 1: 1st Raph Richards 39pts, 2nd Ross Brown 35pts Div 2: 1st Geoff Steel 37pts, 2nd Anthony Medley 37pts 24th October 2015 BEAT THE PROFESSIONALS Winning Team: Lyndon Purnell, Paul Harrington, Phil Harrington & Mark Wiggington 225 points 25th October 2015 Stableford QER white tees Div 1: 1st Steve Mee 38pts, 2nd Sean Pearce 37pts, 3rd Steven Castledine 35pts Div 2: 1st Mark Croft 37pts, 2nd Sunil Kashyap 35pts, 3rd Simon Ball 35pts Div 3: 1st Howard Henshaw 35pts, 2nd Dal Biant 35pts, 3rd Steve Walker 35pts 26th October 2015 SENIORS TEXAS SCRAMBLE 1st Ian Kirkham, Les May, Neil Goodwin, Graham Hawkes – Team Score 63.2 Only one team managed to "beat the Pro's" at Oakmere last week 3 under after two holes sent morale momentarily sky high, Sadly falling back down to earth on the next hole as they lost 3 shots, Phil Harrington says "this happened twice
until we steadied the ship and started playing as a team" Heavy showers didn't bother the awesome foursome as two Birdies and an Eagle on18 made the sun shine on the rightous Totally unaware of how valuable their performance was Lyndon Purnell, Paul Harrington, Phil Harrington and Mark "wiggle" Wiggington carded a very tidy Nett225 and hold the bragging rights for a year over Proffesionals: Shane Peacock, Daryl StJohn-Jones, Martyn Brown and Jamie Jarvis with a score of Nett 230 Oakmere Park Golf Club. Commanders Golf course competition results 23rd October 2015 Pauley Trophy Div 1: 1st Terry Watkins 34pts, 2nd Owen Tucker 33pts 3rd Brian Arrowsmith 32pts Div 2: 1st Mick Riley 34pts, 2nd John Glover 34pts 3rd Dennis Wilkinson 32pts 25th October 2015 Presidents Cup Div 1: 1st Richard Hardy 35pts, 2nd Owen Tucker 34pts, 3rd Colin Ross 32pts Div 2: 1st Colin Handley 35pts, 2nd Andrew Godson 34pts, 3rd Chris Mills 33pts 27th October 2015 Tuesday Stableford Div 1: 1st Rob Horridge 42pts, 2nd David Foster 34pts 3rd Brian Arrowsmith 34pts Div 2: Harry Wood 40pts, 2nd Ken Corkish 37pts, 3rd Clive Barnes 36pts
www.countygolfer.co.uk 51
COMPETITION RESULTS NAYLOR LEADS DERBY TO VICTORY
TOM NAYLOR (Hallamshire GC) led Derby College to victory in the 1st round of the Inter Collegiate Golf Tour held at Cavendish GC on Wednesday 21st November 2015. Tom posted a best of the day GROSS 73, in extremely tough & windy conditions to share the lead with Luke Palmoski of Balby Carr College. Naylor was supported by Ethan Rockley (Breadsall Priory GC) 74-3-71, Jamie McFaul
52 www.countygolfer.co.uk
(Oakmere Park GC) & Will Davidson (Breadsall Priory) 77-0-77 for a total of 300 to tie the Gross with Balby College. Derby College A team won the NET event returning a score of 287, 7 strokes ahead of Balby College on 294. Derby A team are tied top of the league with 4.5 points alongside Balby with Derby B in 3rd place.
Golfing
News GROWING the GAME at Norwood Park Golf Centre, it’s EASY…
EZ Easy Golf Using the 15’’ Hole!
NORWOOD PARK GOLF Centre in Southwell, Nottinghamshire already nationally recognised by ENGLAND GOLF & PGA for their initiatives to help ‘grow the game’, and crowned Club of the Year 2015 Sport Nottinghamshire report how successful EZ easy Golf on their Par 3 Course using 15” holes in association with TaylorMade has been since introduction over a year ago “The Par 3 Course was re-designed to incorporate shorter EZ tees and the 15” holes positioned on the greens away from the normal holes. It gives the players more choice and is ideal for beginners & juniors wanting to make the transition from the driving range on to the course quicker & without making it too difficult. It really has been very popular, offering both variety & fun for all the family and many National Governing bodies have supported such initiatives to help golf appeal to all, we are delighted to be amongst to first in the UK to introduce the new larger holes”
Rob Macey, TMAG staff player NPGC “TaylorMade are delighted to be associated with EZ Golf at Norwood Park. The 15” cup encompassed with shorter holes is a great idea that brings a further enjoyment to the game for all ages and ability.” Lee Farrar – Head of Field Sales for TaylorMade "Norwood Park Golf Centre has shown to be one of the more pro-active clubs in Nottinghamshire, they put development at the heart of everything they do, which creates a warm and friendly atmosphere at the club. I have worked in Sports Development for nearly 16 years and Norwood Park Golf Centre is ‘far and away’ one of the best clubs I have ever worked with. They put the love of the game at the centre of all they do and in doing so have become a shining light for the region. The EZ Easy Golf initiative is proving very popular and no doubt help grow golf in Nottinghamshire” www.countygolfer.co.uk 53
and unfinished hems allow for growing room. High -quality technical cloth is a feature of the range, as are attention to detail and practical ingenuity for performance, comfort and style on the golf course. Joseph Garratt Trousers avoid the boredom of neutral or black, or the shrillness of attention-seeking neon. Instead, tartans and attractive solid hues convey assured confidence with a superior cut and stitching on cloth which has been designed in Great Britain exclusively for Joseph Garratt.
brings ‘old school’ British fashion to Boys golf
Joseph Garratt Plus Twos are offered to discerning golfers who like the quirkiness of the quintessential British look. These can be teamed with Joseph Garratt long cotton Socks, available in two colours. The Plus Twos portray a fearless and independent image for serious golfers who like to stand out from the crowd. The classic Joseph Garratt crew neck Jumper is 100% Australian Merino Wool, spun in Austria and fashioned in Scotland. Each Jumper features a discreet Joseph Garratt logo, embroidered Tour-style on the upper sleeve.
Golf has a new look with British fashion brand Joseph Garratt, which launches its Autumn 2015 range of With a selection of Socks and Woolly Hats completing its first collection, Joseph original garments at www.josephgarratt.com this week. Garratt dresses the young male golfer The first collection is aimed at boy golfers aged 7 to 12 years, and includes Trousers, Plus Twos, Jumpers, Hats and Socks. With Scottish-made garments, plus fabrics woven in England at the heart of the collection, golfers can be reassured that they are buying quality British clothing with an emphasis on quality and style, inspired by ‘old school’ cut and cloth with a modern feel. Thoughtful details such as adjustable waists 54 www.countygolfer.co.uk
in tasteful, confident, distinctive and authentically British-looking new styles this autumn.
Joseph Garratt is a family-run business, managed by Maria Healy. After a fruitless 2014 search for a standout pair of trousers for her son to wear in a golf event, Maria attempted to make her own, even enrolling on an evening class to get help. “I wanted him to look smart for the occasion and there really was nothing out there that caught my eye” she said.
“My son’s tastes are rather idiosyncratic and he likes to be different without ‘flag nor fanfare’” she continued. “I realised that if I was having trouble finding quality pieces which stood out, then other families must be feeling the same. I also quickly realised three things: that I was never going to create a pair of trousers good enough to see the light of day myself; that the clothing on offer in the current junior golf market did not demonstrate the attention to detail I wanted; and that nobody was offering quality British-made clothes for junior golfers. “So I thought – let’s have a go at making our own and see where it takes us!”
It is a name which I hope will, in time, become associated with timeless values such as British resilience, the promotion of independent thinking, and good choices. “I believe that our sport stands for style and respect, as well as flair and individuality, and I am proud to bring these values to junior golf with the new Joseph Garratt collection”. All pieces in the collection can be bought online at www.josephgarratt.com. Contact the team via sales@josephgarratt.com or call the sales hotline on +44 (0)7711 802528.
Like many parents, Maria is passionate both about British-made products, and about supporting family businesses. “As a family, we don’t mind paying for individual pieces which we can mix and match with lower-end garments to create a stand-out look” she said. “So if I am buying a stand-out piece for my son, I want to feel the money I spend is worth the return I will get on it. That’s why we have built in growing room by adding adjustable waists and unfinished hems, so hopefully Joseph Garratt trousers will span two seasons, depending on the child of course. “And our tartan is exclusively designed for us, so not everyone will be turning up in a pair. This adds to that individuality we were looking for”. The company has been named after Maria’s father, and she admits that she has inherited his need to ‘make’ and ‘do’ after growing up in a childhood home littered with handmade tables and desks, tea trays and jewellery boxes. “I wanted a strong name, a name that would stand the test of time. His name was a natural choice. For me, it portrays a gimmickless image which mirrors our garments. www.countygolfer.co.uk 55
Golfing
Equipment Golfsupport’s
AUTUMN 2015
TOP PICKS Taylormade M1 Driver
There has never been as much hype about an appearance as there has about Taylormade’s latest addition. This new multi-material construction, consisting of a 7 layer Carbon Composite Crown, has allowed Taylormade to shift 25grams of weight. Taylormade have created the T – Track system which allows the player to adjust the bias of the club. The track runs from toe to heel and from the face to the back of the club making a T –track. The toe to heel track features a 15 gram weight which can be adjusted to select multiple draw, neutral or fade flight options. The other weight, running face to back of the club is a 10 gram weight which can alter the height of the flight. This combined with the ever present loft sleeve makes this just about the most adjustable driver on the market today So is it worth the money? Certainly all of the customers that have tried so far have noticed a longer more penetrating flight then their current driver and the feed back so far is that this has been a massive hit!
56 www.countygolfer.co.uk
£399
From
Titleist AP1
£80 each
“The longest, most forgiving iron that Titleist have ever made!” That’s some claim for a company that are more renowned for their precise and accuracy but this year Titleist have decided to mix things up So what’s the science behind this claim? An extreme 360 degree undercut cavity helps to create a large, thin unsupported face that helps to increase launch and speed to which will help generate greater distance. Titleist have placed high density tungsten into the head to lower the centre of gravity, which has allowed them to strength the lofts of the clubs and create more speed and distance. The high density tungsten positioned around the outer perimeter helps to increase the MOI making this one of the most forgiving irons in its category. This is without doubt the most forgiving iron that Titleist have ever made. Combine this with the extra distance gained by the stronger lofts that Titleist have been able to achieve by lowering the centre of gravity and you can see way Titleist are going to shake up the distance iron market this year From
£80 each
Titleist AP2
No pressure with this iron, as at the time of writing the World number 1 Jordan Speith is playing the 714 model and unless they make it better would be crazy to change to the new improved model without it meaning a significant difference to his game. This is going to be tough! Like the AP1, Titleist have again used a high density tungsten weight to lower the CGI and align it perfectly at impact to implement maximum speed. This has again given Titleist the opportunity to lower the loft and increase distance without losing consistence. This club comes with the True Temper Gold AMT (Ascending Mass Technology) steel shaft which helps to create extra speed and launch in the long irons and added control in short irons. The ascending weight technology goes from 130 grams in the pitching wedge to 112 gram in the 3 iron Will we be changing? You bet we will. The look of the iron from the top is still the classic look you would expect from an AP2 iron and still maintains the excellent feel that you get with a forged iron. But with the lower CG meaning greater distance than ever you can guarantee this will be in Jordan’s bag very soon as well as some of the staff at Golfsupport’s www.countygolfer.co.uk 57
Golfing
Equipment Golfsupport’s
AUTUMN 2015
TOP PICKS Nike Storm-FIT HyperAdapt jacket
£179.95
If you’re one of these crazy golfers who like to play in the rain, Then you’ll know the importance of buying the right waterproofs Wind, rain or even snow, the Storm FIT Fabric that has been incorporated into this jacket makes sure that you stay dry and comfortable. With mesh vents for enhanced breathability, this jacket has every thing you need to make your round of golf enjoyable even in the most severe weather. Nike use a stretch fabric in the shoulders to help increase the range of motion. This makes it easier to make a fuller and less restricted turn during your swing. This jacket comes with a limited waterproof guarantee which should help to convince you that this is a product you can really believe in when the bad weather kicks in Lets face it, nobody enjoys wearing waterproofs, but we are all golfers and bad weather happens. This means that we need to pick something comfortable and more importantly waterproof! Nike have managed to cover the basics and even more with the stretch material in the shoulders to help you maximise your game even when the weather gets in the way 58 www.countygolfer.co.uk
£149.95
SkyCaddie Sky Pro
If you’re a gadget geek like me then the Skycaddie Sky Pro is right up your street The SkyPro shows you what you’re doing right and wrong, instantly. The SkyPro doesn’t just give you information about your swing, It even tells you what aspects of your game to practise. The SkyPro enables you to view your swing from almost every angle due to the 3D images that you can obtain instantly on your mobile device. Using this 3D technology you are able to stop your swing at any point and see what part of your swing needs adjusting. The SkyPro is easy to fit to your golf club so that you can use it anytime you are practising and works with IOS 7.0 or greater and Android Jelly Bean 4.1+ We all want to improve and the team at Golfsupport are no different. When looking for a device that helps golfers improve, it is important that the device is accurate with clear instruction to aid the golfer. This is exactly what you get with the Sky Pro, accurate, clear information with 3D images to make it even easier to improve your golf game. The fact that you can get the information quickly to your device means that you can learn with each swing you make. Bye, bye wasted practise time
www.countygolfer.co.uk 59
Big Max Waterproof Cart Bag
£169.99
So its come to my attention that golfers play in the rain(some folk are crazy). With this in mind Big Max have come to the rescue The Big Max Aqua O bag comes with 14 full length divide system and an oversize top to allow for oversize grips. The bag is completely waterproof and sealed with cooler pocket, glove and towel holder and weighs only 2.7 kg The Big Max Aqua M Has a 14 way ergonomic organiser top and 14 way full length divider system and is completely waterproof. The bag has 9 pockets including an XL cooler pocket and weighs a mere 2.4kg. The Big Max Aqua Silencio is so named due to the solution it delivers. Using the i-DRY technology which offers 100% waterproof material this bag has a 14 way silent organiser top to lock the club in place and individual dividers for each club means you never have to listen to your clubs clunking around when you play golf again. This bag comes with a XL cooler pocket umbrella holder and scorecard pocket and weighs approximately 4kg in weight When you play golf in all weather, making sure your equipment is in the optimum condition to play is essential. Big Max have achieved this by making not only a waterproof bag selection, but making sure that no matter what equipment you have they have a bag to suit you
60 www.countygolfer.co.uk
Enjoy a walk with
WALK
14 great walks for all, around Derbyshire. This tablet size walk book makes the maps easy to read whilst on the move
WALK HIRE OUND DERBYS BEST WALKS AR ns 14 OF THE VERY cise instructio clear and pre , ps Ma low Easy to fol
Issue 1
buy on-line at www.walkderbyshire.co.uk
only £2.99
Country
PUBLICATION For over 20 years we have been walking and publishing walks around the County and now we have brought together 14 selected walks for people to enjoy. ‘Walk Derbyshire’ is available through selected outlets around the County and online to download at www. walkderbyshire.co.uk both for a charge of only £2.99
Available At the following outlets: Brierlow Bar Book Store Ashbourne Road, Nr. Buxton, Derbyshire. Richard Whittlestone. Broomes Barns, Pilsley, Chatsworth. The Plough Inn Brackenfield. Matlock Road, Alfreton. Meynell Langley Garden Centre. Lodge Lane (off Flagshaw Lane), Kirk Langley, Ashbourne. Pooles Cavern. Green Lane, Buxton, Derbyshire. Mainsail Restaurant Carsington Water Visitor Centre Ashbourne, Derbyshire.
Derby Tourist Information Centre, Assembly Rooms, Derby. Deli Cafe. Main Street, Brailsford. Peaklander. Peaklander Works, Calver Crossroads, Nr Baslow, Derbyshire. Ashbourne Visitors Centre Town Hall Yard, Ashbourne Redgates Farm Shop. Coney Grey Farm, Mansfield Road, Brinsley, Notts. Images Publishing Ltd. Unit 5 Keypoint Village, Keys Road, Alfreton.
or on-line at www.walkderbyshire.co.uk
County
Golfer Club Directory Derbyshire Golf Courses Golf Course
Alfreton Golf Club Allestree Park Ashbourne Golf Club Bakewell Golf Club Barlborough Links Golf Club Birch Hall Golf Club Bondhay Golf & Country Club Brailsford Golf Course Breadsall Priory Golf Club Broughton Heath Golf Course Burton- on-Trent Golf Club Buxton & High Peak Cavendish Golf Club Chapel-En-Le-Frith Chesterfield Golf Club Chevin Golf Club Erewash Valley Golf Club Glossop & District GC Grassmoor Golf Centre Hallowes Golf Club Hope Works Golf Club Horsley Lodge Kedleston Park Matlock Golf Club Maywood Golf Club Mickleover Golf Club Morley Hayes New Mills Golf Club Ormonde Fields Golf Club Pastures Golf Club Renishaw Park Rother Valley Golf Centre Shirland Golf Club Sickleholme Golf Club Sinfin Golf Course Stanedge Golf Club Tapton Park Municipal 64 www.countygolfer.co.uk
Postcode Phone DE55 7LH DE22 2EU DE6 1NB DE45 1GB S43 4NW S18 4DB S80 3EH DE6 3BU DE7 6DL DE65 5BA DE15 0PS SK17 7EN SK17 6XD SK23 9UH S42 7LA DE56 4EE DE7 4QR SK13 7PU S42 5EA S18 1UR S33 6RP DE21 5BL DE22 5JD DE4 5LZ DE7 3ST DE3 9AD DE7 6DG SK22 4QE DE55 9RG DE3 0UJ S21 3UZ S26 5PQ DE55 6AU S33 OBN DE24 9HD S45 OLW S41 OEQ
01773 832070 01332 550616 01335 342078 01629 812307 01246 813111 01246 291979 01909 724709 01335 360096 01332 832235 01283 521235 01283 568708 01298 26263 01298 79708 01298 812118 01246 279256 01332 841864 0115 932 3258 01457 853117 01246 856044 01246 413734 01433 622282 01332 780838 01332 840035 01629 582191 0115 939 2306 01332 518662 01332 780480 01663 743485 01773 570043 07766 098628 01246 432044 0114 247 3000 01773 834935 01433 651306 01332 766462 01246 566156 01246 239500
Website
alfretongolfclub.co.uk allestreeparkgolfclub.co.uk ashbournegolfclub.co.uk bakewellgolfclub.co.uk
bondhaygolfclub.com brailsfordgolfcourse.co.uk marriott.co.uk broughtonheathgc.co.uk burtonontrentgolfclub.co.uk bhpgc.co.uk cavendishgolfclub.co.uk chapelgolf.co.uk chesterfieldgolfclub.co.uk chevingolf.co.uk erewashvalley.co.uk glossopgolfclub.co.uk grassmoorgolf.co.uk hallowesgolfclub.org hopeworksgolfclub.co.uk horsleylodge.co.uk kedlestonparkgolf.co.uk matlockgolfclub.co.uk maywoodgolfclub.com mickleovergolfclub.com morleyhayes.com newmillsgolfclub.co.uk ormondefieldsgolfclub.co.uk renishawparkgolf.co.uk jackbarker.com shirlandgolfclub.co.uk sickleholme.co.uk derby.gov.uk stanagegolfclub.co.uk taptonparkgolfclub.co.uk
Nottinghamshire Golf Courses Golf Course
Beeston Fields Golf Club Brierley Forest Golf Club Bulwell Forest Golf Club Chilwell Manor Golf Club College Pines Golf Club Coxmoor Golf Club Edwalton Golf Course Kilton Forest Golf Club Leen Valley Golf Club Mansfield Golf Centre Mansfield Woodhouse Golf Club Mapperley Golf Club Newark-on-Trent Golf Club Norwood Park Golf Course Nottingham City Golf Club Notts Golf Club Oakmere Park G.C Radcliffe-on-Trent Golf Club Ramsdale Park Golf Centre Retford Golf Club Riverside Golf Club Ruddington Grange Golf Club Rufford Park Golf Centre Rushcliffe Golf Club Sherwood Forest Golf Club Southwell Golf Club Springwater Golf Club Stanton-on-the-Wolds GC The Nottinghamshire Golf Club The Orchards Golf Course The Serlby Park Golf Club Trent Lock Golf Centre Wollaton Park Golf Club Worksop Golf Club
Postcode Phone
NG9 3DD NG17 2LG NG6 9LQ NG9 5AE S80 3AP NG17 5LF NG12 4 AS S81 0TL NG15 7TA NG18 3PJ NG19 9EU NG3 5RH NG24 2QX NG25 0PF NG6 8LF NG17 7QR NG25 0RH NG12 2JH NG14 6NU DN22 7UA NG7 2SA NG11 6NB NG22 9DG LE7 5RL NG18 3EW NG25 0TS NG14 6FZ NG12 5BH NG12 3HB NG25 0PT DN10 6BA NG10 2FY NG8 1BT S80 2SQ
Website
0115 925 7062 beestonfields.co.uk 01623 550761 brierleyforestgolfclub.com 0115 9763172 0115 925 8958 chilwellmanorgolfclub.co.uk 01909 501 431 collegepinesgolfclub.co.uk 01623 557 359 coxmoorgolfclub.co.uk 0115 923 4775 glendale-golf.com 01909 479 199 bassetlaw.gov.uk 0115 964 2037 leenvalleygolfclub.co.uk 01623 422 764 jackbarker.com 01623 623521 mansfieldgolfclub.co.uk 0115 955 6672 mapperleygolfclub.org 01636 626282 newarkgolfclub.co.uk 01636 816 626 norwoodpark.org.uk 0115 927 2767 nottinghamcitygolfclub.co.uk 01623 753225 nottsgolfclub.co.uk 0115 965 3545 oakmerepark.co.uk 0115 933 3000 radcliffeontrentgc.co.uk 0115 965 5600 ramsdaleparkgc.co.uk 01777 711188 retfordgolfclub.org 0115 986 2179 0115 984 6141 ruddingtongrange.co.uk 01623 825 253 ruffordpark.co.uk 01509 852959 rushcliffegolfclub.co.uk 01623 626 689 sherwoodforestgolfclub.co.uk 01636 813 706 southwellgolfclub.com 0115 965 2129 springwatergolfclub.co.uk 0115 937 4885 stantongolfclub.co.uk 0115 933 3344 thenottinghamshire.com 01636 812257 orchardgolfcourse.co.uk 01777 818 268 selbygolfclub.co.uk 0115 946 4398 trentlock.co.uk 0115 978 7574 wollatonparkgolfclub.com 01909 477731 worksopgolfclub.com
Or download the RoundSeeker mobile phone app for a full directory of golf clubs and their very latest offers from:
www.roundseeker.co.uk www.countygolfer.co.uk 65
Up to 5 Months of Free Golf Join Erewash Valley Golf Club NOW! Pay your Full Joining Fee of £300 and pay No Annual Subscription until
1st of April 2016!!
• Ladies, Intermediates, Juniors and Returning Members pay
No Joining Fee.
• JOIN NOW and Pay only £300, or 50% of Your Annual Subscriptions (whichever is the lower), and the Balance on the 1st of April 2016.
• Play Immediately giving up to 5 Months of Free Golf. • Plus a Free 30 minute Instruction Lesson
• 10% off the first order over £100 in the Pro Shop • And to start you off at the 19th Hole - £10 added to your Bar Card on Joining. (Excludes Juniors). •
• Telephone the Administration Office on 0115 9323258 ext 5 for details. or the Professional Shop on ext 2
the NOTTINGHAMSHIRE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
REMODELLED, REDESIGNED AND BEAUTIFULLY REWARDING
Featuring the toughest par four in the county, come and experience the superb facilities of a 36 hole golf and country club that’s just 6 miles from Nottingham city centre with one of our
Winter Fourball Offers from only £90* or
Golf & Lunch for only £25 per person * Offer available Mon – Fri 11am – 2pm & Sat & Sun 12noon – 3pm - Bookable 7 days in advance
WINTER WARMER’S 18 HOLES OF GOLF ON EITHER OF OUR TWO COURSES YOUR CHOICE OF
FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST OR ONE COURSE CHEF’S SPECIAL
FROM ONLY £20** PER PERSON AVAILABLE FROM 1ST NOVEMBER 2015 - 31ST MARCH 2016 ** Price quoted for a midweek booking on the Masters course
SELECTED AS HOSTS FOR THE ENGLISH’ GIRLS OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP IN 2016
The Nottinghamshire Golf and Country Club
@thenottmshire
#NottmshireAwaits
For more information on any of our events please visit our website at
www.thenottinghamshire.com
The Nottinghamshire Golf & Country Club Cotgrave, Nottingham, NG12 3HB - 0115 933 3344
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OURSE MANOR C
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rley Ha Subject to Mo yes.com w.morleyha 782000 ww Tel: 01332
Get a recognised golf handicap online, and track your scores by adding your golf rounds onto Golfshake.com. The golf score tracking service enables you to track unlimited rounds on multiple courses plus will analyse your game and track your golf handicap for free. Join free plus get 4 months FREE Premium Access with your Morley Hayes Manor Golf Card.
Manor Golf Card Register for your free Privilege Card @morleyhayes.com/golf
Main Road, Morley, Derbyshire DE7 6DG • www.morleyhayes.com • 01332 782000
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