Inside Golf Sept 2017

Australia’s

Most-Read

Golf

M aga z i n e

Issue 146 // SEPTEMBER 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

WI

!

A BusN hnell ProX2

The A-Z of

> TECH ON THE TEE

The latest GPS and Laser Rangefinders to hit the course

> MR AND MRS SMITH

> GOLF TRAVEL LIFT-OUT

Great golf along the Mornington Peninsula, Canberra and the Southern Highlands

WIN! a YAMAHA DR2 QUIET TEC

Sarah Jane and Duane, the quiet achievers on tour

> GYM JUNKIES

Are PGA Tour pros’ fitness regimes doing more harm than good?

AT D E U VAL 0 Inside Golf and Yamaha Golf Carts are offering one lucky reader the chance to win an amazing golf car of your very own!

5 2 , 1 $1

This fabulous prize comes with a golf car bag cover, two sand bottles, club and ball washer, dress rims, and, best of all, will be in the colour of your choice!

Plus, we will even throw in a Yamaha Golf Bag to give to a mate!

Simply enter their details into the entry form, and if you win the buggy, they will win the bag!

To enter, visit: www.insidegolf.com.au/competitions (Entry closes September 30)

NOW IS YOUR TIME TO CUSTOMISE

Choose your FREE Upgrade When you purchase a 10 piece set.

FREE Driver Upgrade to Optima TSX Black Adjustable Driver

EXCLUSIVE TO

FREE Grip Upgrade to Optima Full Cord Grips

FREE Optima Drive 2 Cart Bag

- OPTIMA TSX PREMIUM STOCKISTS Terms & Conditions apply. Promotion runs from 1 July – 30 Sept 2017.

Irons to touch your soul.

THE MP-18 SERIES, REFINED BY OUR YORO MASTER CRAFTSMEN

THE NEW

MP-18 SERIES

Luxury Golf Cruises / UK & Ireland Sail on 684 passenger Oceania Nautica

16 to 29 June 2018 – Around Ireland 11 games including 3 world top 100 courses

Full itinerary refer www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC5

12 to 26 September 2018 – Around UK & Ireland 9 games including 4 world top 100 courses

Full itinerary refer www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC6

Adrienne and David, your tour hosts, golf enthusiasts and cruise travel experts

Seabourn

Ca Auckland to Sydney Pricbine Jan 2018 reduced

by A$9,000 18 nights – 9 games www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC4

Mississippi River Memphis to New Orleans April 2018 14 nights – 7 Games

www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC9

Only 3 Cabins Left

Silversea

Only 1 Cabin Left may 2018 – Special 15 nights – 6 to 9 games Pr ice www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC10

Monaco to Venice

Uniworld

Oceania

Paris & Normandy

Around Ireland

ROME TO BARCELONA

Paris & Normandy

www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC11

www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC5

www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC7

www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC12

JUNE 2018 13 nights – 8 games

JUNE 2018 13 nights – 11 games

SEADREAM YACHT UNIWORLD – RYDER CUP SEPTEMBER 2018 14 nights – UP TO 10 games

TRENDSETTER TRAVEL - The Luxury Golf Cruise Experts david@trendsettertravel.com.au ph: 02 9428 5900

www.trendsettertravel.com.au

September 2018 10 nights – 5 games

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Best Opinion (2015-16) Best Column (2011-12) Best Photojournalism (2006-07)

5

starters box

LINKS HOPE ISLAND

Beat the pro...every week?

Richard Fellner

richard@insidegolf.com.au @insidegolf

A

few readers have alerted me to a situation that is slowly trickling through clubland. It seems that a growing number of clubs are beginning to allow professionals to play in club events like the weekly members’ competition and even Club Championships.

That’s right, we are now being asked to compete against the professionals in our weekly club comps. It’s “beat the pro” on a whole different level.

It appears that the situation is in response to an incident whereby a club member (who was also a member of the PGA) took action against their club for not being allowed to play in certain club events. In essence, they argued that being a member of a professional organisation should not prohibit them from taking part in the events.

IN THIS ISSUE:

6 8 18 23 24 26 36 46 48 60 62 64 68 70 76 79 80 82 83

NEWS cLUB NEWS IG BUSINESS GENERAL MANAGERS ON TOUR COVER STORY CLUBS gear tech on the tee people rules SENIOR AMATEURS JUNIORS INSTRUCTION 19TH HOLE events YOUR SAY DEMO DAYS GOLF DIRECTORY

Golf Travel LIFT-OUT: MORNINGTON PENINSULA, CANBERRA AND THE SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS

As a result, some clubs are now changing their rules simply to avoid potentially similar legal battles. They also state that this will help grow the game of golf by “opening up” the events, etc.

I should point out that at least some of these clubs are looking to allow only PGA Vocational members (i.e. those working in the industry, who have become professionals via a trainee or bridging program) , and not Tournament Professionals.

I should also note that the Rules of Golf don’t prevent professionals from playing with amateur golfers.

At any rate, I’ve chatted with a few members at various clubs about this, and they are not thrilled. Not. At. All. In fact, their sentiments border on outrage.

Comments like “It seems like the Pros want the best of both worlds!” and “How on Earth are we supposed to compete with these guys?” popped up regularly.

The line between professional and amateur athlete is becoming thinner and thinner. We need to look no further than the Olympic Games—once an “amateur” competition that is now dominated by professional athletes—to see what can happen when professionals infiltrate a sport. In golf, even our “Open” competitions—The US Open, Australian Open, Open Championship, etc—are basically professional events that feature few amateurs. Closer to home, even Pennant golf is affected, with professionals now allowed to represent a club.

One of the things I genuinely look forward to each week is my regular Wednesday comp. Though I rarely figure anywhere near the top of the standings, I know that there is always the chance I could have a day out and maybe bring home the bikkies (“tell him he’s dreaming”). But if a pro were in the field—regardless of their level—I’m sure my anticipation for playing in these events would be diminished.

I’ve played in a lot of pro-ams, with professionals of every different level – from Vocational Professionals to Touring Professionals, men AND

www.insidegolf.com.au Outdoor Sports Publishing Pty Ltd ACN 113 836 301 ABN 30 043 104 919 PO BOX 437, Miami, QLD 4220 EDITORIAL: Group Editor: Richard Fellner P: 0407 000 440 richard@insidegolf.com.au PO Box 363, Mount Evelyn, Vic, 3796 Chief Writer: David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au Design & Layout: Stacey Fortescue, Rhys Martin, Rob Kirk Contributors: Larry Canning, Michael Court, Andrew Crockett, Denis Dale, Steven Jeffress, Karen Lunn, David Merriman, Richard Nizielski

SALES: National Sales: Sam Arthur P: 1300 4653 00 | F: (07) 5535 4922 M: 0410 575 303 | E: sam@insidegolf.com.au QLD Sales: David Ross M: 0439 612 458 | E: david.ross@insidegolf.com.au

women. And it’s clear that nearly all of these players play an entirely different game to us lowly club amateurs. Their consistency, mental fortitude, skills, distance and overall game play far surpass that of the average club member—even the scratch or single-digit player will struggle to compete. On their worst day, the pros can be expected to shoot a few strokes worse than their norm. In comparison, that’s what I aim for on my VERY BEST day.

I can only imagine the fallout that will inevitably occur (and it WILL happen) when a Club Championship is contested between a professional and an 18-marker. I know who I’d put my money on.

Many will argue that the handicap system will sort this all out, and that it is there to level the playing field. But as I (and many, many others) have discussed, the current Australian Handicapping System (namely DSR, Slope, etc) is flawed. And thus it will likely let us down in this endeavour.

If clubs are determined to go this route—essentially ignoring the wants/needs of their members in order to avoid litigation that may never eventuate—then the only real fix, in my opinion, is to create a new grade of golfer. While we currently have A, B and C grades, perhaps clubs need to create something like an AA or Pro grade?

Australia/NZ Sales: Lisa Coleman E: lisa@insidegolf.com.au | M:0406 031 344 Accounts: Sheridan Murphy M: 0404 075 823 E: accounts@insidegolf.com.au

Hope Island Road, Hope Island QLD 4212 P: 07 5530 9000 golfmail@linkshopeisland.com.au www.linkshopeisland.com.au

NOOSA SPRINGS GOLF & SPA RESORT

As always, I’m interested to know your thoughts out there. Should pros be allowed to play in your club events? Should we have different grades, or let them play with the rank and file? What else can be done?

See you on the fairways

Winner of multiple Australian Golf Media Awards -- including “Best Column” for his monthly Starters Box –Group Editor Richard Fellner is a member of the Australian Golf Media Association and the Golf Society of Australia, and he is a regular guest on many Australian “sports talk” radio shows.

AUSTRALIA’S MOST-READ GOLF MAGAZINE It’s official: 42,812 Inside Golf Magazines distributed each month for the period: October 2016 to March 2017

NSW/ACT Sales: Megan Symington M: 0419 575 000 | E: megan@insidegolf.com.au VIC/TAS/SA Sales: Jon Perrett M: 0402 852 637 | E: jon@insidegolf.com.au

Spring Stay and Play Package starting from $165 per person per day*

Distributed to over 425 golf clubs, social golf clubs, driving ranges and retailers Australia wide every month Cover Photos: Courtesy of the PGA Tour/Presidents Cup

Unlimited Golf Getaway Package starting from $180 per person per day*

Links Drive, Noosa Heads, QLD 4567 P: 07 5440 3333 info@noosasprings.com.au www.noosasprings.com.au *Packages include breakfast & golf including motorised cart per person per day. Price based on a minimum 2 night stay quad share. T&C’s apply.

NEWS

6

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Rumford to defend World Super 6 Perth

T

he ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth is set to continue its modernisation of golf in 2018 when it is played from 8-11 February at Lake Karrinyup Country Club in Perth, Western Australia.

The ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth was the first of a number of format innovations the European Tour has introduced in 2017 emphasising the importance of entertainment.

With a mission to revolutionise world golf, the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth was a success in its inaugural staging with local hero Brett Rumford triumphant.

Tri-sanctioned again in 2018, the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia, European Tour and Asian Tour have moved the date forward by a week making it friendlier to Australian golf fans.

Keith Pelley, Chief Executive of the European Tour, said: “I was delighted to attend the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 in February which was a huge success and revolutionary for the game of golf.

During the week we also announced a Strategic Alliance with the PGA Tour of Australasia and we are delighted to enjoy such a strong relationship with Gavin Kirkman and his team, as well as with our tri-sanctioning partners for the tournament, the Asian Tour. We are very much looking forward to returning for another edition of this innovative event in 2018.”

“While we had a date clash with ISPS HANDA Women’s Australian Open this year, we have eliminated this in 2018 ensuring Australian golf fans can thoroughly enjoy two weeks of the world’s best being in action on our shores,” said Gavin Kirkman, CEO of the PGA of Australia

The ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth will be played from 8-11 February 2018 at Lake Karrinyup Country Club in Perth, Western Australia. The event combines 54 holes of traditional stroke play across the first three days with a knockout match play format for the fourth and final round.

In 2018 the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth is set to again be a highlight on an impressive sporting schedule in Perth.

The 2018 ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open will be played at Adelaide’s Kooyonga Golf Club from 15-18 February, with defending champion Ha Na Jang committed to defend the Patricia Bridges Bowl.

“I had such an unbelievable experience in Adelaide - I can’t wait to come back and play again,” Jang said.

Jang, 25, made a huge splash in the final round at a windswept Royal Adelaide, making three birdies and a memorable eagle in her final six holes to forge clear of a huge pack to win her fourth LPGA Tour title.

The Korean was clearly emotional when thanking fans at the time, most notably the raucous “Jang Gang”, who roared their support.

Brett Rumford

Win: Tickets to Tommy’s Honour Inside Golf and Transmission Films are giving away 40 double passes to Tommy’s Honour, a moving tale of the founders of the modern game of golf, and their struggles with social class.

Winner of the BAFTA SCOTLAND AWARD 2016 (Best Feature Film) and an Official Selection of both the Edinburgh International Film Festival and BBC First British Film Festival, Tommy’s Honour is a powerfully-moving story of the fractured relationship between Scotland’s Golf Royalty -- Tom and Tommy Morris, the dynamic father-son team who ushered in the modern game of golf.

The story opens in 1866 as 15-year-old Tommy Morris (Jack Lowden) heads to the links with his father, Tom Morris (Peter Mullan). Already a

STAY, PLAY EXPERIENCE

www.bonvillegolf.com.au (02) 6653 4002

Women’s Australian Open dates set

legend, “Old Tom” is greenskeeper for the Royal & Ancient golf club, as well as the town’s club- and ball-maker; and thrice winner of the first major golf tournament, the Open Championship – which he founded in 1860.

Set against the early days of the sport and stunning landscape of Scotland, the story speaks to the universal themes that still exist today -- familial disharmony, class struggle and complicated love stories.

Inside Golf previewed this film recently, and we can attest that it is one of the best golf films we’ve seen in years. Even our non-golfing partners thoroughly enjoyed it! A must-see for any lover of golf!

Tommy’s Honour opens in Australian cinemas nationally SEPTEMBER 7. View the trailer here: https://youtu.be/k7Ltt4la28Q To win one of 40 Double Passes to Tommy’s Honour, visit: www.insidegolf.com.au/competitions, or our Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/insidegolf

“It was one of my favourite moments to play so well for the crowds and I’ll never forget how they all got behind me and cheered me to victory,” she said.

Golf Australia’s tournament director Trevor Herden said securing the signature of such a fan favourite was a real boon for all involved.

“Ha Na was stunning in February - nobody who was at Royal Adelaide will ever forget that sensational finish,” Herden said.

“That, along with her exuberant personality, is exactly what her huge Aussie fan base will hope to see again.”

In addition, Dr Haruhisa Handa has confirmed that ISPS will act as the naming rights sponsor for a ninth consecutive year.

Herden said the increased level of ISPS Handa investment and support were imperative to the tournament’s ability to keep growing and looked forward to extending the relationship.

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Sergio Garcia confirmed for Aussie PGA Masters champion Sergio Garcia is Gold Coast bound for the Australian PGA Championship to be played at RACV Royal Pines Resort from 30 November to 3 December.

Garcia had the golfing world cheering in April; the popular Spaniard broke through for his first Major victory at The Masters and will celebrate with Australia when he tees it up in the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia and European Tour cosanctioned tournament.

“2017 has been exciting for me winning The Masters and I look forward to celebrating the end of the year at the Australian PGA Championship,” said Garcia, who last played in Australia in 2010.

A ‘Power-ful’ Qld PGA win for Tod T od Power has claimed the QLD PGA double, after taking out the 2017 BMD/ Bartons QLD Senior PGA Championship at the Wynnum Golf Club.

Heading into the final round with a three-shot lead, Power struggled through the opening nine, matching bogies with birdies in the windy conditions to make the turn in two-over.

Power etched his name in the history books becoming only the third player alongside Bryan Smith and Ossie Moore that have won both the QLD PGA Championship and QLD Senior PGA Championship double.

Garcia is sure to be a popular headline name at the 2017 Australian PGA Championship and to ensure all sports fans can witness the Masters champion in action; the PGA of Australia is introducing a fan friendly ticket price.

“This is a pretty special moment for me joining the likes of Ossie Moore, a player I grew up admiring and playing alongside at the Southport Golf Club for many years,” said Power.

All general admission tickets will be priced at $25 when purchased at the gate or via Ticketmaster with children, 16 and under, granted free admission when attending with a paying adult.

“I have always enjoyed playing the Wynnum Golf Club, I won the Ken Bartons Memorial Legends Pro-Am here last year and I would go as far as saying I won one of my final PGA Pro-Am Series events here at Wynnum a few years earlier.”

Tickets to see Sergio Garcia play in the Australian PGA Championship from 30 November to 3 December at RACV Royal Pines Resort are now on sale at Ticketmaster.

Although Wynnum would not boast as being one of the longest courses on the Ladbrokes Legends Tour schedule, the course certainly

2018 Gold Coast 6’s Amateur Golf Championship

NEWS

Rumford to bid for WA double Local favourite Brett Rumford will bid to claim a Western Australian double following confirmation that he will play at this year’s Nexus Risk TSA Group WA Open Championship.

Rumford, who recently turned 40, secured an emotional victory at the ISPS HANDA World Super 6 Perth at Lake Karrinyup in February and will make a competitive return to his home state for the WA Open, which will be staged at Royal Perth from October 19-22.

Rumford has called Royal Perth his golfing home for 30 years – to provide extra significance to the occasion – and after spending the majority of the year playing in Europe is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to compete for a trophy he last won in 2005.

Fortunately for Power, everyone else was faltering around him in the difficult conditions and with an even-par back-nine and a final-round 72 for a two-under-par total, Power secured his maiden QLD Senior PGA Championship title.

“It’s been a long time since I have visited Australia but I remember how welcoming the fans were and I have been trying to get back for some time now.”

7

“I’m really looking forward to it. It’s just great that my schedule has allowed me to come back and obviously play again around Royal Perth,” said Rumford, who was recently in Perth and practicing on his home course before heading off to the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia’s Fiji International last month.

Tod Power

proved to be a challenge for the 60-man field with Power the only player to break par.

“Conditions were difficult today with the strong south-westerly blowing, and although I didn’t do myself any favours by the way I played, it was my ability to hang in there and grind it out that proved to be the difference.”

David McKenzie’s fine form has continued after finishing ninth at the Senior British Open two weeks earlier, finishing second, two shots behind Power. New Zealand’s Martin Pettigrew, Anthony Gilligan and Lucien Tinkler finished in a tie for third, a further two shots back.

“There’s been a lot of changes around Royal Perth and I’m just looking forward to getting back.”

The WA Open has a rich history with golf greats such as Greg Norman, Ian Baker-Finch and Gary Player having won the title, while last year Perth young gun Curtis Luck showcased his talent with victory as an amateur.

“There have been a lot of great West Australian players (who have won the title) – Stephen Leaney and Greg Chalmers,” added Rumford.

“For a world player like myself - it’s just great to come back and support golf in Western Australia.”

The OnsongSwing® is a revolutionary digital golf training aid that helps you focus your swing, strengthen your follow through and maximise club head acceleration.

Held at RACV Royal Pines Resort

13tH - 16tH FebRuARy 2018 Days 1 & 2 - 4BBB Stableford Qualifying rounds Day 3 - Top 24 teams from Qualifying rounds go into 4BBB Handicap.

Matchplay. 6 hole matches with the winners progressing to next round.

NTP playoff to decide all ties. Consolation 18 holes for those not qualifying for 6’s matchplay.

$247. 50 FREE SH

IPPING

Visit our online shop today!

Tournament package - $695.00 per person Accommodation packages from - $138.00 per room per night Transport package - $59.00 per person Michael Hansen, Director - Ph. 0418 795 126

* Displays club head acceleration and ball impact * Provides real-time audio feedback as you swing * Includes a benchmark library of your best swings * Features custom set-up to suit your swing dynamics

www.goldcoast6s.com.au Proudly supported by Signature Golf Tours, RACV Royal Pines Resort, Mantra Legends Hotel Surfers Paradise

W W W. ONS ONGS W I NG. C OM

CLUB NEWS

8

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Thommo bowls Discover Bonville’s group experience ’em over IF you haven’t placed Bonville Golf Resort on your golfing bucket list then you should.

Winn said. “It begins when you call to book your group.”

It’s the perfect getaway for couples and golfing groups.

In fact, Bonville’s group golf manager Taryna Mackie can take the hassle out of organising your next golfing trip.

For 16 consecutive years, a golf guide has voted it Australia’s most beautiful mainland golf resort.

The championship golf course rises and dips through the tranquil and stunning surroundings with each fairway being private and isolated from the next.

If this course doesn’t challenge and stimulate golfers of all levels, nothing will.

The golf course is a natural sanctuary with native Australian species roaming the grounds including large black cockatoos, kookaburras, water dragons and goannas.

Jeff Thomson poses on the magnificent par-3 fifth hole at Kooralbyn Valley.

FORMER Australian cricketer Jeff Thomson, arguably the fastest bowler in the world during his heyday, is the Ramada Resort Kooralbyn Valley ambassador.

Affectionately known as “Thommo”, the 67-year-old will represent and promote the resort and golf course helping increase brand awareness and sales through his highprofile and extensive networks.

The bowling legend hit the golf course with another cricket star and mate, Ian Davis, in the weekly Copperhead Challenge competition.

“I’m excited to be a part of it all and promote the resort and golf course to the public and friends,” Thomson said. “I look forward to playing a lot of golf and having fun.”

Resort manager Rene Stern said Thomson, who was inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2016, would be a great addition to the team.

“He (Thomson) is highly respected in Australian sport and is enthusiastic about what Ramada Resort Kooralbyn Valley has to offer fun-seekers and golfers alike,” Stern said.

In the evenings the swamp wallabies that graze on the light rough of the greens and the blackbutt, ironbark and tallowood trees attract families of koalas.

Taryna takes care of every detail including on-site accommodation, tee times, on course activities, dinner/gourmet chef cooked barbeque, reservations in the highly awarded Flooded Gums Restaurant or if you prefer, a private dining room.

Along with organising individualised cart signage, on-course competitions and daily leader board updates, you will also be able to take advantage of Bonville’s teaching professional Richie Gallichan.

Group and individual lessons are available including the highly popular “Secrets to Bonville” clinics, short game and putting clinics.

With direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, your Bonville experience is closer than you might think.

Another feature is the outstanding level of customer service, fine dining and wine that makes it a standout experience.

Contact Taryna Mackie, to discuss a 2017 golfing getaway that is memorable and unique.

“We are extremely privileged and excited to have Jeff Thomson join our organisation as ambassador to assist with promoting our amazing establishment, bringing it back to its former glory and getting Kooralbyn Valley back on the map of the Scenic Rim.”

“It’s all about creating an overall experience,” Bonville’s marketing manager Christopher

Phone 02 6653 4002 or email officemanager@bonvillegolf.com.au

Thommo’s new appointment was officially recognised at a barbecue lunch at the Resort on Sunday, 27th August.

YEPPOON Golf Club’s Ben Swaffield is turning heads on golf courses around Central Queensland.

It seems it all been happening at Kooralbyn Valley as singer/songwriter John Williamson entertained a large gathering in August.

He recently carded a 67 – one-under par – to win the Miriam Vale Junior Open finishing 10 shots clear of Issak Jensen.

Now the resort is gearing up for a twoday pro-am on October 3-4.

On the same weekend, Swaffield captured the Gladstone Junior Open with a fine twounder par 68.

Spots in the field are available on (07) 5544-6688.

Ben Scott finished runner-up after signing for a 73 – three-over par.

Get fit today

Swaffield fires up in CQ Swaffield might need a larger trophy cabinet after adding the inaugural Golf Queensland Junior Points Challenge to his long list of titles.

He finished on 43 points – seven points clear of Yeppoon’s Quinn Stover.

Golf Queensland introduced the nett event this year in an effort to find a state points champion in the 18-hole division.

turn to page 82 for a complete list of fitting days this month

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Chip in for charity

Toowoomba GC has Hart

9

CLUB NEWS

Winter Classic helps kids with cancer TOOWOOMBA Golf Club last month raised more than five figures for a very important cause.

SANCTUARY Cove Golf and Country Club is readying itself for the 11th Charity Golf Classic on Tuesday, September 19.

“We held a huge Winter Classic event at the end of July and raised $10,500 for Cancer for Kids,” said Toowoomba GC general manager Josh Madden.

The important cause raises much-needed funds to combat social isolation in the community.

“We are just doing our bit to give back to charity. If it helps to cheer up the kids that is all we can do.

Now in its 11th year, the Charity Golf Classic will be played on the Palms course.

“Jarrod Lyle was going to host the event, but due to health issues he couldn’t make it.”

H o s t e d b y Pre s C a re a n d Wo o l l a m Constructions, this year’s Charity Golf Classic is set to be the biggest yet.

Madden managed to snare the services of former Australian Test cricketer Greg Ritchie.

“He was really good and did a great job.”

Madden said.

Established in 2006, the event has raised more than $400,000 courtesy of generous sponsors and supporters.

Rowes Bay on a roll

The Charity Golf Classic will give golfers the chance to rub shoulders with some of Australia’s best golfers.

Michael Wright will return to share some of the highlights of his experience as a rising star on the international golf stage and pass on some valuable tips.

TOWNSVILLE’S Rowes Bay Golf Club hosted the Golf North Queensland women’s pennant last month as part of the club’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

Russell Swanson too will line up.

He now dedicates his time to teaching and officiating international tournaments after a 20-year career as a professional.

Annabel Rolley will also be on the course and host the post-event presentation.

She will bring stories of her teaching and touring experiences across Australia and the US including being offered a role by Donald Trump at the Trump National Golf Club in Westchester, New York.

There are a number of packages available including a Platinum Package, Gold Package and an Individual Package.

All packages include excellent benefits.

To be involved is this great charity event, contact Brett Holdway on 0409 654 993 or email bhsportsmanagement@outlook.com

Leah Hart.

IT’S encouraging to see some golf clubs are willing to appoint a female head professional.

Last month Toowoomba Golf Club on Queensland’s Darling Down appointed former Ladies European Tour player Leah Hart to the top job.

Her appointment makes her only the second female in Queensland appointed head professional at a golf club. Gladstone Golf Club’s Alison Munt was the first.

“There are only 11 female head professionals around the country and Leah the 11th,” said the club’s general manager Josh Madden.

“The appointment of Leah Hart has turned a new chapter for the club.

“She was a junior here so it’s a coming home of sorts.

“She grew up at this golf course and had a 20-year hiatus when she went to college in America, played Ladies European Tour and played in a number of Women’s British Opens and Women’s US Opens.”

When Hart retired from the tour, she returned to Australia and completed a bridging course with the PGA of Australia to become a full vocational member.

She also has a Bachelor of Business degree from Swinburne University.

“Leah is a smart person and will do a really good job,” Madden said.

Eat. Drink. Play. with fetched Pick up or delivery? The choice is yours with Fetched.

Food, drinks and golf gear at your fingertips.

Golf Clubs:

Sign up now for a discount rate at fetched.co/insidegolf and use the promo code IG2017.

And guess what? The Rowes Bay women stepped up, winning its three divisions – Silver Division 1, Bronze Division 1 and Copper Division 3.

“It was a great achievement,” said the club’s promotions, marketing, sponsorship coordinator Sue Duncan.

Now the club has dived headfirst into the history books to clarify if it’s a first.

Nine clubs joined Rowes Bay in the celebrations including Townsville, Lavarack, Magnetic Island, Mystic Sands, Willows, Home Hill, Sarina, Proserpine and Mackay.

Lavarack and Magnetic Island won the Bronze Division 3, Mystic Sands lifted the Bronze Division 2 title and Mackay the Silver Division 2 flag.

fetched ON THE FAIRWAY

10

CLUB NEWS

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

All power to Caloundra GC WITHIN months, Caloundra Golf Club is expecting a significant drop in its power bills.

The popular Sunshine Coast club invested in a new clubhouse roof and soon solar panels will go up, start drawing energy and lowering the hefty five-figure bills.

Golfers chip in for cancer research

“We are just waiting for approval from Energex,” general manager Jason Looker said.

“We’ve talked about doing it for a few years, but didn’t want to put solar on the old roof.”

In 2009, the club placed solar panels on the greenkeepers’ shed, resulting in lower energy bills.

The club believes it will save between $10,000 and $12,000 annually and have the panels paid off in around four years.

“It will be worthwhile,” Looker said. “It won’t totally cut our power bill completely by any stretch, but it will help a lot because power prices are almost out of control.”

That’s because senior golfers receive a 40 per cent discount on green fees.

“Our rack rate is $49, but seniors aged 65 and over pay just $28, which is equal to our members’ guest and reciprocal clubs’ rate,” GM Jason Looker said.

“That has been well received especially at this time of year when southern golfers come up to stay for a couple of weeks or a month.

“Rather than just playing one round during their trip they are returning and some are coming back two or three times because it’s such a good deal.”

Tom Shields (left) and Marlene Shields (third from left) hand over a sizable cheque to Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation partnership manager Sharon Wood. The late Col Shields’ grandchildren look on.

THE annual Col Shields Memorial Golf Day at Caloundra Golf Club on the Sunshine Coast was a huge success courtesy of the generosity of the players, supporters and sponsors.

“Our aim was to raise $5000 to get Roy Ryan’s name on the honourboard with Col Shields’.

they also made a wonderful contribution to GMRF.

“Thanks to our amazing sponsors, we have made that happen.

“GMRF’s Sharon Wood came along, had a swing and donated the lucky door prizes.”

“We had a great day with a lot of laughs and shared memories,” a spokesperson for the Shields family said.

“We are so grateful to Brian Davies from Asset Fire and Security who has donated generously and has been our major prize sponsor since the inaugural event.

“We exceeded our expectations to raise a massive $5710, which is going directly to Gallipoli Medical Research Foundation (GMRF).

“We were fortunate enough to find more generosity through Garth and the team at St Barbara Ltd. Not only did they sponsor the day,

The team from Australia Zoo finished third and the Shields/Koops team fourth.

If you would like to donate to a good cause, log on to www.gallipoliresearch.com.au

with PGA professional Robert Stock

Join us on these fabulous golf holidays

California Dreaming

LEGENDARY LINKS OF BRITAIN

Golf Cruise onboard GRAND PRINCESS Discover some of the legendary golf courses in the world as you cruise along the California coast, visiting San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, San Diego and Ensenada in Mexico aboard the magnificent Grand Princess. Enjoy confirmed tee times at nine outstanding courses including the spectacular Pebble Beach Course home of the 2019 US Open, Torrey Pines host to the 2008 US Open and TPC Harding Park venue for the USPGA 2020 and President’s Cup 2025.

While GMRF was the big winner, the U-Fit boys – Ryan, Lance, Adam and Allen – took out the major golf prize just ahead of the Caloundra team led by Grant and Denise.

Golf Cruise onboard ROYAL PRINCESS

On the Legendary Links of Britain Cruise you will walk in the footsteps of legends of the game on courses occupying some of the most picturesque coastline in the British Isles. The tour starts in Canterbury followed by 12 nights cruising around Britain on the luxurious Royal Princess. With five British Open Venues on the itinerary this is one golf tour not to be missed.

Play at 10 world-class golf courses including Turnberry, Royal Lytham, Royal Portrush and St. Andrews.

Play & Stay at the legendary Pebble Beach golf course 26 Apr – 10 May, 2018

2 – 18 August, 2018

1800 033 436

Email: heathmont@travelrite.com.au www.travelrite.com.au

ATAS No. A10538 ABN 64 005 817 078

MEANWHILE, senior golfers from around Australia and overseas continue to sing Caloundra Golf Club’s praises.

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

11

CLUB NEWS

Mini golf to open at The Vines

Construction is nearly finished on the 18-hole Vines Mini Golf.

WESTERN Australia’s The Vines Resort and Country Club has been enjoying a bit of online buzz lately, as locals have been eagerly following the club’s construction of a state-of-the-art mini golf course.

Due for completion in the middle of this month, the $1million 18-hole

Vines Mini Golf course was designed

by Richard Chamberlain, and features a “Swan Valley” theme with grapevines, wine barrels, tractor and a few other features across the course. Once completed it will be suitable for all ages and is designed to be a perfect location for birthday parties, team building or corporate events. The course will be

open 7 days per week and will even be fully flood lit for night games.

With ample free parking and a range of delicious food and drinks available, this new addition to The Vines should prove to be the perfect activity to keep the little kids (and the big kids) entertained.

Doors Warringah future still shaky close at Krambach AFTER an amazing 65 years of fun and frivolity, the famous little Krambach Golf Club on Sydney’s North Coast has hosted its last round of golf.

Formed in 1952 by founding members George Paterson, Tom Lynch, Jack Bidner, Dudley Paterson, Max Ross and Mack McKinnon, Krambach was a unique course with fences around every green on a working farm that had cattle wandering the fairways.

For many years Krambach’s grounds have been maintained by one greenkeeper with some help from volunteers.

The women have stuck by Krambach too, forming their own club in 1954 with just 11 players.

Shirley Moore was probably their most prominent player with 16 consecutive club championships.

Inside Golf has learned the clubhouse will be sold and club director Moya Harris said she was hoping the new owners would preserve the club’s memorabilia as a tribute to the legacy of a club that was small – but always great hosts with plenty of happy members.

WARRINGAH Golf Course in Sydney’s north is not out of the woods yet.

consultation process, pending a review.

Still the latest reports indicate the local council was considering issuing a 20-year lease for the southern nine holes and a five-year lease on the northern end to give an elected council (it is currently being run by an administrator) the option to convert half of the 18 holes course into multiuse sporting facilities.

That review was launched in response to calls from the Manly Warringah Pittwater Sporting Union to re-assess the amount of golf courses when compared to playing fields, citing a shortage of sporting venues.

The tendering process for a multisport clubhouse on district park was halted in September after a two-year

THE BALLS THAT CHANGED THE BALL.

According to Warringah Golf Club president Scott Campbell, 55 per cent of submissions on the strategy called for the retention of Warringah Golf Course, despite an effort by council to sway public opinion.

Marrickville in danger?

WHILE this publication has mentioned a controversial proposal to cut one of Sydney’s busiest golf courses, Warringah Golf Club, to just nine holes, we now learn another golf club could be in trouble.

Plans to cut the long-running Marrickville Golf Club to just nine holes from its present 18 have also been revealed.

According to a Sydney daily newspaper, plans to reduce the course to a nine-hole layout on the banks of the Cooks River in inner Sydney could be the death knell of the club.

The plan is to close nine holes and add about 8500 new homes on parcels

of land owned by the Inner West Council.

It is all part of the Department of Planning Draft Sydenham to Bankstown Urban Renewal Corridor Strategy announced by the State Government.

The renewal strategy said the future of Marrickville Golf Course would be considered by the Inner West Council as a potential source for open space.

The Marrickville club has about 475 members and hosts about 15,000 social rounds a year but the council leases the course to Marrickville GC on a six-month rolling lease.

CALLAWAYGOLF.COM.AU

CLUB NEWS

12

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Curlewis on par and potent To say that Curlewis Golf Club has the Australian golf fraternity in an excitable spin is an understatement. Touted as the fastest-growing golf club in Australia, Curlewis has recently catapulted up the ladder to become one of Australia’s Top-50 Public Access courses.

In an unprecedented move in the club’s history, Curlewis recently announced the imminent capping of 7-Day Memberships. Club Manager, Brenden Caligari said member satisfaction underpinned this decision.

New par-3 unveiled at Windsor pro Mornington Golf Club captures NSW PGA championship Windsor club pro Adam Kelleher won the NSW PGA Professionals Championship at Castle Hill Country Club on the 1st August.

“Our foremost priority is member contentment - it is critical that all 7 Day Members are able to play in Curlewis competitions whenever they want so this consideration has been at the forefront of dialogue in order to best serve our great club cohort,” Mr Caligari said.

The concept of true community facility will be extended when the state-of-the-art Driving Range facility opens its doors in December. Located at the western end of the course, this is on track to be a definitive game changer for Victorian golf, featuring 18 indoor/outdoor driving bays, two simulators, a mega slick mini golf course as well as indoor exercise and conference facilities for up to 300 people.

“Everyone at Curlewis is committed to redefining the concept of traditional golf and presenting an all embracing community club which is contemporary, multi-dimensional, friendly and fun,” Mr Caligari said.

“We encourage golfers of all standards to come and experience the Curlewis difference, we are proud to be making a significant difference to both the golfing and immediate community alike.” www.curlewisgolf.com.au

Adam now qualifies to play in the National Final at Hamilton Island in November.

The Spectacular New Par-3 at Mornington Golf Club (Photo by Gary Lisbon).

There is exciting news for golfers on the Mornington Peninsula, with the beautiful Mornington Golf Club set to unveil a spectacular new clifftop par-3 this spring.

The Mornington Golf Club is known across Melbourne for its excellent views of the Bay and the city skyline. The location of the new par-3 is directly atop the cliffs near Sunnyside beach.

Designed by Ben Davey from Contour Golf Design and Darius Oliver from Planet Golf, the objectives were simple – to create an interesting green site that follows the natural landforms as best it can and doesn’t divert attention from the stunning surrounds. With the land falling sharply toward a creek on the

right, the green was anchored by a deep trench-like bunker along this side and set on the horizon to appear as if directly atop the cliff. Another bunker was placed 10-15 metres short of the green to confuse depth perception and complicate what is otherwise a straightforward tee shot. The angle of the tee was designed to make the green surface more visible, and easier to approach, the further forward you play. Back tee golfers are only hitting a 150-metre shot, but to a green partly hidden and angled across them slightly.

For any golf club, a new hole is a major undertaking, and the hope for Mornington with this par-3 is that its success will ensure continued membership growth and increased green fee play.

“ More than just a Golf Club

Vintage amateur US-bound

BRITISH Amateur runner-up Dylan Perry is headed for the US after gaining a start in this month’s prestigious US Amateur.

Hailing from the tiny Hunter Valley town of Aberdeen, Perry, who plays his golf at The Vintage at Pokolbin, shot 71-65 in the US qualifying event to earn a place in the elite field at Riviera Country Club.

Another NSW golfer Blake Windred missed qualifying by just a shot at the Mendon Golf Club in Rochester, New York.

But the young man did it tough, having to endure a missed flight, a five-hour storm delay and a change of course before coming oh so close to qualifying for one of the world’s great amateur events.

“

Initiative, innovation and invigoration are at the forefront of the Curlewis mantra, featuring ongoing course improvements, stunning golf, a top in-house PGA professional, great lunches 7 days and top Bistro dining Friday and Saturday nights, a totally transformed clubhouse facility, a dynamic Junior Development Program (complimentary for all Junior members) as well as a suite of Women’s Beginner Clinics. The introduction of GolfBoards – a cool fusion between a golf cart, snowboard and Segway – has also been an exciting addition for members and public access players. FootGolf, (a combination of soccer and golf) has provided yet another dimension to what Curlewis Golf Club has on offer.

Tied with Rob Kennedy and Michael Gannon at 1-under-par at the completion of play, the event went to a three-way sudden-death play-off. Adam knocked it on the par-five in two shots and made a two-putt birdie, whilst Kennedy made par and Gannon made bogey.

New Family and Lifestyle Memberships available to suit you Available to all social groups, including Stay and Play Packages Visitors and guests welcome 7 days a week Bookings via the Pro Shop 07 4635 1219 235 -323 Rowbotham St, Middle Ridge, Toowoomba, QLD 4350 www.toowoombagolfclub.com.au

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

13

CLUB NEWS

Mona Vale New beginning for Big plans at celebrates Scone Golf Course Merewether 90 years

Newcastle-based club, Merewether, is pressing ahead with plans for a multi-million dollar redevelopment including seniors-living apartments attached to a new clubhouse.

The golf club is currently chasing feedback from members about the proposal which is designed to help keep this popular club afloat.

MONA Vale Golf Club turns 90 this year and will celebrate with a Golf and Gala event on October 14 as part of a proposed weekend of festivities.

The project would also include a large underground carpark and commercial space on the site of the existing clubhouse.

Saturday’s Golf and Gala will be a jacket and tie affair in the evening and a mixed golf competition during the day for five and sevenday members.

According to the Merewether president Phil Merrigan: “We can’t stay with what we’ve been doing for the past 100 years and expect to stay in business.”

Secretary-manager Any Hugill has promised the dinner will be a fantastic night to reminisce about all things Mona Vale Golf Club.

It will be a night of live music, great food and extraordinary company.

Tickets for the gala event cost $100 per person with the tee times at 7.30am and 12.30pm and the dinner event to begin at 7pm.

In other news from Mona Vale Golf Club, Dale Brandt Richards has been appointed Mona Vale’s new touring professional.

Brandt-Richards won the biggest event of his short career recently when he took out the Tahiti International Golf Open.

He showed he had what it takes to be a success in pro golf too, leading all the way to hold off a handy field in Tahiti and admitting later he was feeling the pressure of being in front – although handling it superbly.

“There were times to play shots and times to play smart,” Brandt-Richards said.

“I just tried to stay in the moment.”

Seems like it is the perfect time for Mona Vale Golf Club to have their “stamp” on his bag.

Changes at

Gordon Halliday, Chair of the Golf Committee, and Wayne Bedggood, Mayor of Upper Hunter Shire Council on the existing ninth green.

Newcastle

Re-development of the Scone Golf Course in the Upper Hunter Valley of NSW will begin this month and should be completed by the middle of 2018. The re-development is necessary as Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) require a substantial portion of the existing course for construction of the Scone heavy vehicle by-pass.

An on-going consultative process was held during the design stage involving RMS, RSL management and Golf Club members. Tenders were issued in June, and McMahons Pty Ltd were selected. Phil Ryan from Pacific Coast Design is the architect for the final design. Mark Wylie from Weidlich Golf Design will project manage the course construction for Upper Hunter Shire Council.

Funding for the re-development of $3.8m will come from the RMS. Upper Hunter Shire Council has provided additional land immediately to the south of the existing course for the re-development to occur.

The Golf Course is owned by the Council and managed by Scone RSL under a lease agreement. The Scone Golf Club is a subclub of the RSL.

The re-designed course will have nine holes and eighteen tees. From the blue markers the new course will be 6038m (v 5993m) and from the red markers will be 5002m (v 5238m).

It is one of several changes at Newcastle with president John Twohill and five directors losing their positions earlier this year.

There will be a last opportunity to play the existing course at a ‘wake’ to be held in early September for members, past and present and visitors. Details are on the Scone Golf Club web-site.

Christian Gillott also replaced Paul Foulcher as general manager while the head greenkeeper has also left the club.

THERE are changes in the pro shop at Newcastle Golf Club following a move – out of golf- by the club’s former professional Mark Gilson.

Gilson left the club on good terms after deciding to take a role as state sales manager for Toro Mowers.

GravityFit TPro for a more accurate, consistent and powerful swing Develop better posture in your setup for a more accurate swing.

Improve dynamic rotation for a more consistent swing.

Build body strength and stability for a more powerful swing.

Workout from within for a better game of golf

“I use the TPro to train my body and arm connection in my swing. It basically guides me into the right position and I just repeat the movement I want to make, it’s really simple” Cameron Smith Australian Professional Golfer - PGA Tour

Used by:

Purchase your TPro today by visiting gravityfit.com/golf

15% OFF Code: InsideGolf The TPro forms part of the GravityFit System Unique training equipment, exercises and drills based on 30 years of science.

CLUB NEWS

14

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Pro Danny packing up CALOUNDRA Golf Club head professional Danny Freyling is counting down the months before he puts the cue in the rack to join the grey nomad phenomenon.

Swapping the saddle for a sand wedge FORMER champion Sydney jockey Mark de Montfort has been having a good deal of success as a horse trainer but still finds time for his favourite passion, golf.

De Montfort has played pennant golf for Bardwell Valley in Sydney’s south but his handicap has slipped a little in his more senior years and as a result the former Golden Slipper winner (Catbird in 1999 in case you’ve forgotten) now plays off a competitive eight.

Yes, after 16 years, Danny and missus Gail are looking forward to a much-needed break after virtually working seven-days-a-week.

“Both Gail and I have been working long hours and we want to seek a new adventure while we are young enough,” he said.

Still the little fellow shows he can still mix it with the best of them as he slipped around the testing Cabramatta course with 37 points recently to do what he loves – win.

“I don’t know if it’s official retirement, but we are planning on becoming grey nomads travelling throughout Australia.

De Montfort won both the singles and two-ball event of the day with his partner giving him 32 points for the pair to win the two-ball aggregate as well.

“I plan on playing a bit more golf if the journey takes us that way.

As a jockey De Montfort won an Australian Derby (Myocard) and an Epsom (Final Fantasy) but freely admits that, like the rest of us, he loves nothing better than a win at golf.

“I’d like to play all the little nine-hole golf courses around the place a couple of times a week and if the desire kicks in I might play the Fat Belly events (Legends Tour),” the 54-yearold added.

14-year-old wins pro event

“Gail hasn’t played much since April and is looking forward to playing some golf as well.”

HERE is a name worth following – Atthaya Thitikul.

Freyling said one of the first things packed in the van would be the golf clubs.

Thitikul is a 14-year-old amateur, who recently became the youngest golfer to win a professional tournament.

“Golf was the last thing we did when we have gone on holiday in the past,” he said.

The Thai youngster took out the Ladies European Thailand Championship.

Freyling told Inside Golf he had enjoyed every minute of his time at Caloundra.

“It’s been a thrill to be here and a tough decision to leave, but all things come to an end eventually,” he said.

“It’s a great club, which is extremely well run and the golf course is second to none. It’s challenging and in good condition all year round.”

Prior to the job at Caloundra Golf Club, Freyling spent 12 years as head pro at Toowoomba Golf Club.

“Before that I was at Half Moon Bay at Yorkeys Knob from 1986-’89 and my first club job was at Innisfail in 1985-’86,” he said.

Thitikul was not eligible for the £40,000 ($65,700) prize.

Danny and Gail Freyling are preparing to hit the highways and byways.

“I have been a club pro for 34 years and in that time I have indentured 20-odd trainees.

“I have an exciting prospect in trainee Jacob Boyce.

“He had an excellent year last year and he is a real shining star on the horizon.”

In 2012, Freyling received an achievement award in the PGA of Australia’s centenary celebrations.

“That was a highlight because I was one of 100 who received recognition for services to the PGA,” he said.

“It makes me feel very happy and so proud of myself,” she said.

“This trophy, I give to Thailand and the Thai people.

“My family do not play golf. When I was younger, aged six, my father told me to play sport and he offered tennis or golf and I watched golf on TV and I liked it.”

For the record, Canada’s Brooke Henderson held the previous record winning an event on the Canadian Women’s Tour in June 2012 aged 14 years, nine months and three days.

Henderson’s record for a male or female player came in a 36hole event, bettering the mark by two days set by New Zealand’s Lydia Ko in January 2012 at the New South Wales Women’s Open.

Ko held the record on the Ladies European Tour, having won the 2013 New Zealand Open aged 15 years, nine months and 17 days.

Ryder Cup Luxury Golf River Cruise

Paris & Normandy

23 September to 3 October 2018 On Luxury all inclusive Uniworld river ship the S.S Joie de Vivre For full itinerary refer www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC12 · Attend Ryder Cup in Paris & stay, 3 nights post Ryder Cup and 8 day cruise, at luxury golf resort/hotel in Chantilly · 10 nights with 5 golf games playing 2 of top 6 in France · Visit Normandy Beaches and Monet’s Garden plus much much more

From

A$10,700 pp

Nancy and Greg, your tour hosts and golf enthusiasts

Seabourn

Ca Auckland to Sydney Pricbine Jan 2018 reduced

by A$9,000 18 nights – 9 games www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC4

Memphis to New Orleans April 2018 14 nights – 7 Games

www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC9

Uniworld

Oceania

Paris & Normandy

Around Ireland

JUNE 2018 13 nights – 8 games

www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC11

Silversea

Mississippi River

JUNE 2018 13 nights – 11 games www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC5

Only 3 Cabins Left

Monaco to Venice may 2018 15 nights – 6 to 9 games www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC10

Only 1 Cabin Left

Oceania

SEADREAM YACHT

Around UK

ROME TO BARCELONA

www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC6

www.trendsettertravel.com.au/GC7

SEPTEMBER 2018 14 nights – 9 games

TRENDSETTER TRAVEL - The Luxury Golf Cruise Experts david@trendsettertravel.com.au ph: 02 9428 5900

www.trendsettertravel.com.au

SEPTEMBER 2018 14 nights – UP TO 10 games

CLUB NEWS

16

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Captain Andrea right on Kew staff and boards have a reference document for management and planning.

David Newbery

david@insidegolf.com.au

Ms Moore, who currently works as a dental practice manager said all golf clubs need people with business experience in key positions.

I

T didn’t take Andrea Catherine Moore long to play down her appointment as Kew Golf Club’s first female club captain.

“It’s a tough business now and you do need to be accountable financially and have a strong vision of where you are going and what you are doing.

“It’s no big deal,” she said.

“I understand it’s significant being the first woman captain of the club, but I hope in a couple of years a woman captain won’t even be commented on.

“I certainly don’t know it all, but I am part of a board structure and believe we are moving in the right direction.”

“To me, it doesn’t matter if you are male or female because you are making decision for all golfers.

Kew Golf Club has 1300 playing members of which 27 per cent are women.

“Ninety-five per cent of our decisions aren’t based around whether it’s a male or female thing – it’s just about golf and the course.

A keen golfer, Ms Moore describes her game as “average” despite playing off a handy “13-something” handicap.

“With the duties of being captain, I’m not getting any better,” she laughed.

“Pretty much everyone wants the same thing – a good course where you can play good golf. It’s just golf.”

“I spend a lot of time at the club talking about golf but not much time practising.”

Kew Golf Club, in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, is a private club governed by a board of directors while the CEO takes care of the day-to-day running of the club and staff.

Located nine kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD, the golf course backs on to the Yarra River.

“It’s a beautiful position and a great course and because of where we are many of the members are local,” Ms Moore said.

For readers outside of Victoria, the captain or president generally heads up Melbourne golf clubs.

“We are a captain’s club where the captain is chair of the board,” said Ms Moore, who has been a member of the club for 17 years.

Andrea Moore has taken the helm at Kew Golf Club.

Before taking the helm, Ms Moore spent three years as vice-captain and chair of match committee and members endorsed her elevation to the top job.

“We have been through a big development program over the last few years and spent a lot of money on bringing the club back up to one of the premier clubs,” she said.

“The members have been incredibly supportive and encouraging,” she said.

Ms Moore has a background in agricultural science and business, which is invaluable around the club and boardroom table.

“I think it was a big deal for some members when I stood as vice-captain, but I think they are used to it now.

In her nomination for the top job, Ms Moore wrote: “As captain I would like to focus on production of a comprehensive course master plan covering turf management, water management, drainage, irrigation, equipment, maintenance facility, tree management, staffing and labour, architectural and design improvements to ensure that course improvements are accurately recorded and future

“I’m sure there is the odd member who shudders a bit, but most people seem supportive – particularly the former captains.”

A people person, Ms Moore undoubtedly has the interests of the club and all members at heart.

“It’s a vibrant club. The members tend to spend a lot of time there socialising as well as playing golf.

“We are busy seven days a week and that adds real atmosphere.”

Originally built in the 1970s, the clubhouse has been renovated allowing members and guests to enjoy the more modern facilities.

“It’s a fantastic spot for entertaining or just having a quiet drink with a beautiful aspect over the lovely course.

“In fact, I’m just about to head off to the club for a social night – a Tina Turner function,” Ms Moore concluded.

FOOTNOTE: Established in 1894, Kew Golf Club is Melbourne’s third-oldest golf club. Solicitor James Anderson and Fred Fitts, an architect, formed the club to provide golfing facilities for the residents of Kew and Hawthorn.

Want $500 - $2,000 cashback just for playing golf?* Enter your nearest Scramble event to be eligible.

Barina, Spark, Trax

$

*T&Cs apply.

500

Astra, Captiva

$

1,000

Visit holdenscramble.com.au

Colorado, Commodore, Trailblazer,

2,000

$

Goes Where No Driver Has Gone Before.

The new G400 driver’s streamlined shape advances aerodynamics and stability to our highest levels ever.

A speed-inducing forged face and MOI-raising tungsten sole weight deliver greater distance and fairway-finding forgiveness.

Forged Face Tungsten Sole Weight With a combined MOI over 9,000 and the deepest CG location in golf, there’s no more forgiving driver available.

Engineered to increase face flexing and deliver a powerful sound and feel, the forged face is precision machined to produce hotter ball speeds across the entire face.

ALTA CB (Counter-Balanced) Shaft

Color-Shift Paint Technology Contact American Golf Supplies (02 9524 8233) or ping@americangolf.com.au for PING fitting account information

The premium copper shaft paint transitions to black as you address the ball to reduce distractions.

business

18

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Women in Golf conference contributes to the change debate T

he second Women in Golf Governance Forum was held at Castle Hill Country Club recently, with some lively debate from the more than 40 participants representing 28 Clubs from Sydney metro and regional NSW. Participants exchanged ideas and experiences on matters including getting more women involved in golf club governance; developing a thriving sport through golf clubs and getting more people playing golf and joining golf clubs.

Among the points raised, one worrying trend was highlighted. Notably, results from Golf Australia’s 2016 Golf Club Participation report, which stated “Female members declined by 3% in 2016, which continues a steady decline over the past five years…

Given the faster decline in female members relative to males, females now account for just under 20% of national members.”

Forum participants discussed the need to better understand how women are participating in golf clubs, and questioned data gathering/reporting methods. For example, are clubs reporting women as members when they are “associates”? This distinction is important because many clubs still only allow women to join as associates.

That lesser status not only limits women’s access to the course (and in some cases clubhouse facilities), it also prevents women from voting and participating in the broader governance of clubs as board members.

Some clubs are already addressing this constraint via constitution changes, while

others are slow to recognise the need for change.

To assist with better understanding women’s participation in clubs, Golf NSW agreed to start collecting relevant data.

Another discussion point revolved around the fact that most golf clubs have a similar focus on competition golf with Honour board events as the highest recognition for club champions. Acknowledging this format is an important and celebrated tradition in club golf, forum participants noted that it’s worth considering whether it may also be a barrier to increasing women’s participation

as club golfers. Many women take up golf as adults, and it can be quite an intimidating experience to join a club. In addition to learning how to hit a ball and play a course, there’s etiquette and rules to be observed.

Often that information is handed down through a women’s committee or induction program that can be experienced by “rookies” as hierarchical and competitive rather than welcoming. Clubs might consider a less formal “buddy” approach where members are encouraged to go out of their way to play social rounds with “rookies” to transfer knowledge - where the emphasis is on fun rather than induction.

Young Cherry Festival Veterans 20th Annual Week of Golf 19th-24th November, 2017

As reported last month in Inside Golf, more great ideas and information were exchanged during the Forum. Next year’s event will include a workshop component where participants problem-solve in groups, and then present their solution to the wider group for further feedback. Importantly, Golf NSW has agreed in principle to sponsoring the event going forward. Inside Golf will report on the 2018 details once they are available.

Those interested in attending the next forum and contributing to discussions, email your details to Megan Symington at megan@corporategolf.com.au.

Double the golf Double the value

at Rockhampton Golf Club Two players 18 holes each Motorised buggy Free drink each after the round

Let us help you

YOUNG VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE Railway Station, Lovell Street

More information and booking form at www.younggolfclub.com.au or contact Bill Kearney on (02) 6382 5555 or bmkearney@hotmail.com

Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays 9.30am-4pm Freecall 1800 628 233 Email: info@visityoung.com.au

www.visityoung.com.au

Just

$60!

Awesome Value ~ Amazing golf course Offer available September & October 2017

 

 

 

www.rockygolfclub.org.au Ann Street Extended, Rockhampton, Qld. Clubhouse: 07 4927 3311 | Pro Shop: 07 49224098 admin@rockygolfclub.org.au

The gadget-packed S3 PRO trolley offers a streamlined battery tray, soft-touch ergonomic handle and high resolution colour screen.

Other stand-out features include Adjustable Distance Control, USB charging port, CartLock pin code, three distance measurements and the super-fast QUIKFOLD assembly mechanism.

Distributed by Walkinshaw Sports

Motocaddy After Sales – a whole new level of service.

motocaddy.com.au

IG BUSINESS

20

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Victorian Golf Industry Awards Last month, Huntingdale Golf Club hosted the 2017 Victorian Golf Industry Awards night - an annual celebration of those who have made significant contributions to the sport throughout the year. Congratulations to all of the following winners: Regional Volunteer of the Year Dorothy Mortlock – President, Golf Peninsula Vic Golf Club of the Year Bairnsdale GC Amateur Players of the Year Alizza Hetherington and Brett Coletta Club Employee Award Clayton Howell – The Eastern GC GMV Excellence in Management Barbara Kelly – Chirnside Park CC Apprentice of the Year Joel Manson - Anglesea GC Superintendent Recognition Award Michael Freeman – Huntingdale GC PGA Legends Pro-Am of the Year Shepparton BMW Victorian Senior Open (Yarrawonga Mulwala / Black Bull) Metropolitan Pro-Am of the Year Eynesbury Masters Regional Pro-Am of the Year Barwon Cleaning Supplies Portarlington Pro Am Bruce Green –PGA Club Pro of the Year Travis Harrison – Brighton Public Golf Course PGA Teaching Professional of the Year Christian Hamilton – Golf Australia PGA Coach of the Year Denis McDade – Bann Lynch McDade Golf, Yarra Bend PGA Manager of the Year Jeff Graham – Goonawarra GC Pro-Am OOM Winner Andrew Martin Hall of Fame inductees: Sam Berriman, Harold Knights, David Inglis, Jack Dillon, Bill Richardson, Rosemary Wakeham, Vi Teesedale and Claude Crockford.

Asian Tour becomes an affiliate of The R&A

Print magazines far from dead Readers of Inside Golf rejoice! New data released by Roy Morgan Readership has revealed that the print industry is thriving, with nearly two-thirds of Aussies still reading print magazines.

The Roy Morgan Australian Magazine Readership report for the 12 months to June 2017, published last month, revealed that 10 of Australia’s top 15 titles increased their print readership over the past year. A total of 12,470,000 Australians aged 14-plus (62.6 per cent) read print magazines according to the latest data for the 12 months to June 2017, virtually unchanged from a year ago (down only 0.1 per cent).

T

he Asian Tour has become an affiliate of The R&A, enabling both bodies to work more closely together for the development of golf in Asia.

The R&A will provide support for the Asian Tour’s developmental tour and will engage with the tour on Rules education and development projects. The tour will now also be represented at The R&A’s quadrennial International Golf Conference in St Andrews.

Martin Slumbers, Chief Executive of The R&A, said, “We are delighted that the Asian Tour has become affiliated to The R&A and look forward to supporting its efforts to assist more elite amateur players to make the step-up to the professional ranks. One of our goals in Asia is to create more pathways for talented young players to emerge. Strengthening

our partnership with the Tour will enable us to provide greater support in this important aspect of the sport.”

Josh Burack, Chief Executive Officer of the Asian Tour, said, “In 2010 we set up the Asian Development Tour. Over the past 7 years the ADT has expanded to over 20 tournaments per annum and provided a great pathway onto our main tour and the world stage of golf. Now working with the R&A we will create some playing slots for top amateur players in Asia to compete against our professionals on the ADT.” The Asian Tour is the first tour outside Europe to become an R&A affiliated body. It joins the European Tour and Ladies European Tour which are existing R&A affiliates.

“Newspaper-inserted magazines (NIMs) have seen an increase in print readership over the past year and this increase is matched by 10 of 15 of Australia’s most widely read magazines – the pleasant experience of reading your favourite glossy still retains widespread appeal.” Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine said.

Moloney, Begg step down from AGMA THERE are major changes afoot among the long-serving members of Australia’s Golf Media Association, formerly the Australian Golf Writers Association.

After a long period at the helm, former Age golf writer Brendan Moloney is stepping down as president, ending an amazing 31 years as part of their executive and nine years as president.

One of the great storytellers in golf, Moloney has followed some of Australia’s biggest-name golf writers in the role, including Don Lawrence, Peter Stone and Tom Ramsey.

More sad news for the association was spilled when longserving secretary George Begg indicated he, too, would be calling it quits, mainly due to ongoing health problems.

“When I took over as secretary in 1995, the AGWA as it was then known, did not even have a constitution or a logo and I am proud that I was able to introduce both,” said Begg.

Recruit. Deploy. Manage. Maintain.

GOLF EXPERTISE THAT WORKS FOR YOU.

InsideGolf Advert.indd 1

As professional golf course specialists for all aspects of construction and maintenance, Programmed Turnpoint provides services and solutions that deliver best results, freeing you as a club manager to better focus on core priorities: operations, services and revenue production.

Services

Golf Course Services: • Golf course construction and reconstruction • Remodelling / renovation of existing golf courses • Golf course maintenance • Grow-in

Workforce

Property Services Facility Management Electrical Technologies Construction & Maintenance Turnpoint Marine

03 5977 1200 programmed.com.au

4/12/2015 4:30:33 PM

September 2017

21

www.insidegolf.com.au

Golf raises $4.28 as Sports Foundation posts $44.75m result Golf raised $4.28 million in fundraising in the 12 months to June 30 as the Australian Sports Foundation posted a third successive record year of fundraising.

Golf development approved for Kangaroo Island

The top 10 fundraising sports in 2016-17 Sport 1. Australian Rules Football 2. Multi-Sports 3. Golf 4. Rugby Union 5. Swimming 6. Football 7. Sailing 8. Rowing 9. Athletics 10. Cricket

The Sports Foundation raised a record $44.75 million for sport in 2016-17 - a $12 million (40%) increase on the previous year taking total funds raised for sport over the past three financial years to more than $100 million.

Donations to Golf fell by 35%, compared to the $6.59 million raised in 2015-16, but the sport maintained third place on the overall code fundraising table.

The top three codes were Australian Rules Football ($20 million – up 126%), Multi-Sports ($9.2 million – up 25%), and Golf ($4.3 million – down 35%).

Golf’s fundraising represents $6.24 per participant, behind Australian Football ($31.42 pp) and Rugby Union ($8.89 pp), but well ahead of other major participation sports such as Rugby League ($1.73 pp), Football ($1.11 pp), Cricket ($0.94 pp) and Netball ($0.25 pp).

Funds raised $19,971,948 $9,212,287 $4,275,937 $1,730,575 $1,518,760 $1,205,471 $1,146,679 $920,889 $722,273 $530,858

Mr Walker congratulated Golf on maintaining a top three fundraising position.

“Golf has performed strongly over the past 12 months and its $6.24 raised per participant is a fine achievement,” said Mr Walker.

Sports Foundation Chief Executive Patrick Walker said 61% of all donations to sport last financial year were made to grassroots sports organisations, up from 39% in the 2015-16 financial year.

“With Aussie Rules raising over $31 per participant, this shows there is considerable upside for Golf in the years ahead.”

“This is the first time grassroots sport clubs accounted for the majority of donations to sport. This means more Aussie kids will enjoy greater participation opportunities, better facilities and upgraded playing and training equipment,” said Mr Walker.

Victorians (36.5%), were the most generous donors followed by residents from NSW (29.1%), Queensland (13.1%), Western Australia (9.6%), South Australia (6.5%), ACT (2.5%), Tasmania (1.8%) and Northern Territory (0.6%).

Golf Vic welcomes new board members and vacated their positions on the Board, while former director Murray Cropley retired from the GV Board following the 2017 Oates Vic Open.”

Golf Victoria officially welcomed newly-elected board replacements last month.

President Stephen Spargo, who is entering his second year as the head of Golf Victoria’s Board, said this year’s additions to the Board mark the completion of a Board succession plan which began in 2016.

Spargo thanked the outgoing quartet for their guidance at Board level, especially following the amalgamation of women’s and men’s golf in Victoria.

Ross Anderson, Cindy McLeish MP, Dorothy Hisgrove and Prof. David Shilbury have been elected to replace the departing directors.

“To complete the planned succession arrangements, at this year’s AGM, former Vice-President Sue Rea and former directors Brian Lasky and Harvey Ashton retired

FREE FREIGHT

Kangaroo Island is set for a rugged and spectacular coastal golf course to rival those on King Island

T

he South Australian Government has announced that Development Authorisation had been granted to Kangaroo Island Links Pty Ltd for a revision to a previously approved golf development on pristine Kangaroo Island in Australia.

Known as The Cliffs, Kangaroo Island and constructed on a premium 600-acre parcel of ocean front land in Pelican Lagoon, the 18-hole golf course takes full advantage of the area’s rolling sand dunes and sweeping coastal views. Much of the course is set atop 25-metre high cliffs and played directly adjacent to the Southern Ocean.

Beyond golf, the project includes a luxury clubhouse/lodge and 180-bed hotel as well as scope for restaurants, conference facilities, and a luxury day spa and health club. There is also provision for a residential component with a select number of private dwellings. Each home site enjoys glorious elevated views across the golf course and along the island’s dramatic coastline.

Darius Oliver, publisher of Planet Golf and co-designer of Cape Wickham on King Island, is responsible for the design of The Cliffs, while Andrew Purchase is in charge of the golf course construction. Like Cape Wickham, it was Purchase who first found this golf land, and Oliver who worked with the State Government on approval for the revised golf course routing.

Committed to delivering the golf course component at The Cliffs, Kangaroo Island Links will be exploring joint venture (JV) opportunities with interested parties for both the resort and residential elements of the development.

Parmaker Spirit

RESPONSIVE HANDLING

Includes rebate, normal stool seat and freight anywhere in Australia.

EXCLUDES batteries and chargers.

COMFORTABLE SEAT LIGHT, HIGH TECH FRAME

$

WALKER & 4 WHEEL MODELS ALSO AVAILABLE

100 REBATE*

Visit parmaker.com to find more about the complete range of Parmaker buggies, walkers and accessories.

POWERFUL & RELIABLE UP TO

5YR

WARRANTY

BUY ONLINE AT PARMAKER.COM/BUGGY-SHOP

100%

03 9580 7166

IG BUSINESS

parmaker.com

AUSTRALIAN MADE

*Rebate refers to the trade-in of an old electric golf buggy for $100 discount.

IG BUSINESS

22

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Vale: Patricia Bridges

Vale: Don Johnson

A

ustralian golf’s grand matriarch, Patricia Bridges OBE, passed away last month. She was 95.

Michael Court

michael@insidegolf.com.au

D

Mrs Bridges, Golf Australia’s only life member and whose name adorns the trophy of the Women’s Australian Open, died peacefully in Sydney.

ON ‘Bronco’ Johnson, who passed away late last month, once told me he was named after a former boxer also named ‘Bronco’ Johnson, who used to fight professionally around the Sydney circuit.

Golf Australia chief executive Stephen Pitt said it was a “very sad day” for all in the golfing community.

“Some might not realise it, but Patricia Bridges was a fundamental part of golf in this country,” he said.

“She played a key role across so many regions and facets of the game for so many years that her efforts have touched us all.

“From her time as a player and committee woman in southern New South Wales from the early 1950s, through decades on national and international bodies, Mrs Bridges was the epitome of grace, organisation and a very rare `can-do’ attitude.”

Born on 30 December, 1921, Mrs Bridges began her lifelong love affair with golf playing at the Delegate Golf Club on the tablelands of far southern New South Wales, inland from Eden.

In the Far South Coast and Tablelands Golf Association, Mrs Bridges became the District Closed Champion in 1951 and 1955, the Open Snowy Mountains Cup winner in 1955 and the District Champion of Champions in the same year.

She played golf socially on a weekly basis with her good friend, Lady Hudson. In 1954, 1955, 1956 and 1957 they combined to win the District Open Foursomes Championship.

It was during this time that her abilities as an administrator began to shine, becoming secretary and treasurer of the FSCTGA in 195254. From there she was elected to the NSW Golf Union in 1956 – a position she cherished and that would help shape her life.

Mrs Patricia Bridges and Karrie Webb, taken at the presentation of the Patricia Bridges Bowl at the 2007 Women’s Australian Open (photo courtesy of Golf Australia)

She was a member at the Bowral Golf Club from 1961-74, during which time she won the 1973 associates championship.

Mrs Bridges was first appointed to the Australian Ladies’ Golf Union in 1964 and became an Australian selector in 1969. Over 11 years, she captained six ALGU teams to destinations including South Africa, Spain and New Zealand and proudly represented Australia on numerous international golf committees.

That ‘handle’ was quite appropriate as no-one fought harder for the men’s and later the women’s professional game in this country than ‘Bronco’.

He retired as executive-director of the Australian Ladies Professional Golf in the mid-90s, handing the reins over to Warren Sevil.

But, along with the spirited support from his loyal wife Nancy, he had set the foundations for the ALPG to become one of the world’s most successful professional women’s tours, with pro-ams and at least three major events on the eastern seaboard and regular support from big-name players like Laura Davies.

By 1981, Mrs Bridges was awarded the OBE for “Services to golf and the community”. In 1991, she was elected for a third term as ALGU president and, in 1992, she negotiated the purchase of the ALGU’s first permanent office in Melbourne.

In a way it was just the challenge Bronco needed . . . he had already worked as secretary-treasurer of the Australian PGA for many years and while his stoushes with the board were quite legendary, players like five-time Open champion Peter Thomson and prominent European Tour star Graham Marsh always knew his ideas were for the good of the game and treated him with the utmost respect.

In 2001, she was awarded life membership of Women’s Golf Australia and, in 2006, the first and to date only life membership of the newly established Golf Australia.

Johnson took that role in 1981 and his six years in office saw a remarkable change in the national men’s professional body.

She was president of the NSWGU, where she was later made a life member in 1984. In 1969, she became vice-president of the ALGU and was soon president from 1970-1973. She later joined the Royal Sydney Golf Club.

SERVANT OF THE GAME: Don Johnson

While Don did suffer from a severe hearing impediment, he never let it hold him back.

Indeed his visionary qualities were nothing short of acute . . . he instantly recognised the fierce interstate jealousies.

With independence endemic among the state bodies, Johnson saw the national PGA as ‘paralysed’.

So he went to president Peter Thomson with ideas to amalgamate and unify the states into the Australian PGA – and this ultimately transpired.

“Don had such an inventive mind as to where the PGA should go over the next 100 years,” said PGA pro Geoff Scott, who later became president and a firm friend of Johnson for many years.

“He was quite astounding in resurrecting the PGA.” Don leaves behind his most devoted wife Nancy, son Peter and a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren.

His good humour (and his weekly race tips) will be missed.

Create Create Your Your Own Own Dream Dream Holiday Holiday Online!

Online!

GOLD GOLD COAST COAST   SUNSHINE SUNSHINE COAST COAST   QUEENSTOWN, QUEENSTOWN, N.Z. N.Z.

INSTANT INSTANT ONLINE ONLINE QUOTES 24/7 QUOTES 24/7 HOT DEALS

HOT DEALS DISCOUNTED DISCOUNTED GREEN GREEN FEES FEES

Golf Golf Tours Tours

Visit us today at: Visit us today at:

www.abovepargolf.com.au www.abovepargolf.com.au

Call Michael now on 1300 798 552 or 0415 046 426 Call Michael now on 1300 798 552 or 0415 046 426 Email: enquiries@abovepargolf.com.au Email: enquiries@abovepargolf.com.au

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

23

GENERAL MANAGERS

GM Josh headed in the right direction talk to people of all ages who love the game and industry and wanted to build a career within it,” he added.

David Newbery

david@insidegolf.com.au

“I spent five-and-a-half years in that role before moving to the state manager’s role in WA and SA.

I

T’S been a year since Josh Madden joined Toowoomba Golf Club as general manager and in that time he has worked diligently to create, build and complement a great team that is working together and all on the same page when it comes to the golf clubs direction.

“I loved every second of my time working within the PGA. It was great fun and very rewarding.”

While working, Madden also returned to his studies burying his head in books as he chipped away at a Masters of Business degree.

“The big picture for us is to provide a great service at three key check points that our members frequent: the pro shop, the golf course and the bar/bistro.

“I guess I had to lead by example and do my best to continue to learn and up-skill.

“It’s the little things that create a great experience and that leads to reputation. We are trying to get the service culture right and continue to do the right thing by our members and guests.

“It was tough work with a young family but I’m very glad that I stuck it out and completed it this year.

“The Masters has been beneficial, especially in my role as a golf club GM,” said Madden who described his management style as “firm but fair”.

“We are 121 years old this year and our history and culture is very important to the club and its membership. We pride ourselves on getting the little things right.

“I certainly listen and I have learned some valuable lesson from managers throughout my time.

“Since my arrival, we’ve made small but solid steps to raise the benchmark on our service culture and building the right team to deliver what our members, guests and visitors expect of the Toowoomba Golf Club.

“To achieve this, we’ve had a really good look at the structure and worked toward recruiting key people in our pivotal roles.

“This change has been challenging, uncomfortable at times but it has been healthy and necessary to help the club move in the right direction.”

Madden, who recently turned the age when life begins, moved to the Darling Downs from Perth where he was the PGA of Australia’s state manager for West and South Australia.

“I was managing 375+ golf professionals across two states so there was a lot of travel involved. I loved the role and diversity, it’s been a transition to go to the same venue every day,” he said.

A product of the Kooralbyn International School, Madden played junior golf with many great players before attending the University of Nebraska on a golf scholarship where he obtained a communications degree.

“I like to keep my ear to the ground with our members, stakeholders and the industry and then have a good look at patterns and trends and then make informed decisions.”

Josh Madden has made positive changes at Toowoomba Golf Club.

“I played the mini tours in America for a while, but didn’t reach my potential or goals and then accepted a job as an assistant professional at Lochland Country Club in Hastings, Nebraska,” he said.

“I then figured that if I was going to join a PGA I might as well head home and continue my education through the PGA’s apprenticeship program.

“I was fortunate to land a great role at Surfers Paradise Golf Club and did my time there which ended in 2007.”

Madden then spent a year coaching golf at Royal Pines before making the transition to the Marketing and Student Recruitment role within the PGA’s International Golf Institute.

“It was a great fit for me to utilise my experience as an international student and product of the PGA traineeship to

Madden told Inside Golf the Toowoomba course was back to its best.

“The bent greens are outstanding and the course is a pleasure to play,” he said.

“It’s a true test and equally important it’s a great members’ course. It’s not too hard and it rewards solid play.”

Madden says he plays fortnightly off a club handicap of one and really enjoys the layout.

“We are 121 years old and the future looks bright because we are heading in a positive direction,” he said.

“We have a good team that is communicating, in sync and on the same page.”

Clearly, the golf industry runs through Madden’s veins.

“Having a career in golf is fantastic,” he said. “I love the game and the people involved in this game. I feel lucky and proud I’m able to work in and build a career within an industry I love.”

Timber Signage for your course

Whether it be for outdoor direction, clubhouse or carpark, we can produce custom signage to cater for your needs.

Contact your David Golf Representative for more information

All of our products are individually custom designed and crafted.

1300 790 890

In addition to mounting in the ground, on a rock, signs may be displayed on timber. All timber is treated (non toxic) and weather proofed. Let’s get a sign designed for you!

www.davidgolf.com.au

dge@davidgolf.com.au

24

On TOUR

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

A Rocky road to Fukushima With Steven Jeffress

I

ed@insidegolf.com.au

had a couple of weeks at home before my next event. It was a little disappointing as I felt like I was playing great but didn’t have anything to play in. It’s always dangerous for me when I’m playing well but don’t have anything on.

Do you practice? If so, how much practice do you do? You don’t want to stand on the practice tee and look for or create problems.

So I try to do a little long game but spend most of my time on and around the putting green. I mix that in with playing in the members comp at Southport, which is in awesome condition at the moment.

Rockhampton, the beef capital of Australia, was my next stop for the Ian Weigh Rockhampton Pro Am. I always love going to Rocky as I like the course and I stay with some great friends. I met Ray and Audrey about 14 years ago in Yeppoon and have stayed with them ever since.

The course was looking nice and as it’s a four-round event, you can prepare more like a main tour event. I played really nice from tee to green the first couple of days but struggled on the greens. The greens were rolling nice but I struggled reading the grain.

It’s hard to get your brain around the fact that in Queensland you can have a putt on a dead flat surface, but the ball can still break.

Anyway I shot 73, 74 the first two rounds to be back midway in the pack and with a heap of work to do to move into the top 10.

I got off to a great start on Saturday and was 3-under through six holes before a couple of bogeys halted any momentum that I had.

I signed for a pair of 71s on the weekend to finish the event 1-over for the week and in about 25th spot. It was disappointing as I’ve won there and feel comfortable around the course. But on the upside, Audrey had cooked a delicious lamb dinner on Sunday so that made the weekend a little better.

On Friday of Rocky I received an email telling me that I was into a main event on the Japanese Tour the following week. This was the last event before their re-rank so if I was to play well and earn some money, it could lead to more starts later in the year. I had a flight booked back on Monday morning into Brisbane and there was a flight just before lunch that I could connect with. Lucky I had my passport with me as I tried to change my flight to Sunday but as usual with airlines, I wasn’t shown much love. The only thing that could hurt my plans on Monday morning would be fog in Rocky.

Every year during the event, we get one or two mornings where there is a thick fog and we are delayed in teeing off. This year the weather in Rocky was awesome and there wasn’t a hint of fog. Until Monday!! We boarded the plane and the weather was great, until a thick fog moved in and the pilot announced that they couldn’t take off. I had maybe half an hour to spare but any longer than that, I could be in trouble getting my connecting flight. We sat there for about 35 minutes before the fog lifted. I arrived in Brisbane, got my bags and headed to the international terminal and checked in two minutes before they closed the flight. Plenty of time!!

Matt Stieger was on the same flight so we decided to get a rental car together when we landed into Tokyo. After a flight from Rocky to Brisbane, then a flight from Brisbane to Tokyo, our trip wasn’t over yet. We had a fourhour drive up to Fukushima which had us arriving about midnight. That worked out to be about 20 hours of travel!

The Fukushima Open is a fairly new event and it is not far from where the Fukushima nuclear power plant disaster happened. I asked the official if it was safe being close to the plant and he said, “yes it is safe, but do not bring children here”. Well, that made me feel comfortable! Not. We had a practice round on Wednesday morning and the course was in great condition. The fairways were pure bent grass, a little soft under foot but absolutely pure to play off. I played solid, shooting a 3-under-par, 69. Due to the course being soft, the scoring was good so 3-under was running about 30th.

I was in the last group the following day and knew that the cut was going to be around 4-under so I needed to keep making birdies. I turned the first 9 in 1-over, which wasn’t great but I was still in a position where a couple of birdies would see me playing the weekend.

I played solid but couldn’t get it in the hole and finished 2-under for the tournament, missing the cut by 2. I was fairly disappointed as I was in a nice position after day 1 and just let it slip. To make it worse, once again the friendly airlines told me that it was going to

be $700 to change my flight; money I don’t really have just at the moment.

So Matt and I moved over to Narita on Saturday night to be a little closer to the airport. Our car ride over was a little interesting. We had the perfect amount of fuel to make it to the station in Narita, which was right near the rental car building. We got within 1km of the fuel station and missed the turn which took us onto a freeway heading for Tokyo. At this stage the fuel light had been on for 20 minutes and the gauge was well under the E. I didn’t think that we were going to have enough fuel to get back. Being the nice guy I am, I told Matt because he was the youngest, that he could run to the fuel station while I looked after the car if we ran out. In the end we made it back to the station and put 39.79 litres of fuel in a 40 litre tank!

The next couple of weeks there are a few Pro-Ams up on the Sunshine Coast before heading to the Fiji International. I am looking forward to Fiji as I have not only great memories but a lot of great friends over there as well. But before then, there is going to be some hours spent on the putting green. •

OPEN

7 days

Day and Night

• 56 undercover hitting bays, automated tee-up • Two 18 hole mini golf courses • 8 qualified PGA golf professionals • Beginners, groups & junior clinics • TrackMan technology • Birthday parties • Corporate functions • Bunker Cafe • Club fittings

Brickpit Park, 142-178 Pennant Hills Rd, (entry from Dartford Rd) Thornleigh | All enquiries: (02) 9875 5445 www.thornleighgolfcentre.com.au

Golf Holidays: Play~Stay~Spectate

Latitude 33 is a luxury travel company focused on providing travel experiences reminiscent of a time when all holiday travel was a luxury - an era when speed and price weren’t the key features, but rather time and elegance. Latitude 33 has tours covering all parts of the globe including some wonderful golfing experiences. If you’d like to travel in style and play golf at the same time, then this is the touring company for you.

MASTERS

Play & Stay Champions Retreat

Gary Player Golf Course Sun City

Sun City

Lost City Golf Course Sun City

Pretoria

Play TPC Stadium Course

Play King & Bear Course

T E F L E 10

Flight from Australia

The Durban Country Club

Fancourt Cape Town

Humewood Course

Oubaai

Book before 30 Sep for BONUS: 2 night Four Seasons Dallas stopover with a round of golf on the famous TPC Las Colinas, home to the Byron Nelson and receive an official Augusta National Green Folding Chair!

Some of the inclusions -

Some of the inclusions -

• 3 nights at Four Seasons Johannesburg

• Domestic airport transfers*

• 4 nights at Palace of the Lost City, Sun City Resort

Kirkwall Invergordon Dundee

Carnoustie Golf Links Ailsa Course

King Robert the Bruce Course

Champagne Sports Resort

Flight to Australia

WATCH OUR VIDEO

Royal Troon Golf Club

SOUTH AFRICA

Fancourt Golf Estate

Play Dye’s Valley

Visit World Golf Village

White River Country Club

Mikhaya Reserve

Johannesburg

Ernie Els Oubaai Club

Arrive at Jacksonville Marriot TPC Sawgrass

Includes 12 nights on board Azamara Journey

Includes 9 nights onboard Rovos Rail

Augusta National Wed/Fri/Sun

Flight from Australia

S

L S E SP A C 2

Atlanta

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

20 nights : Departs July 2019

E F

L E F S E SP A C 5 Includes 7 nights at Champions Retreat

Flight to Australia

Championship

T

T

14 nights : Departs March 2018

Golf Safari 20 nights : Departs May 2018

SP A C

at AUGUSTA

Cruise Air Coach Rail Play Golf

OPEN

South African

The Royal County Down Golf Club

Glasgow

Edinburgh Flight to Australia

Belfast Dublin

Douglas

UK

Flight from Australia

London Cork

K Club

Cork Golf Club

Southampton

St Peter Port

Book before 30 Sep for BONUS: 2 night Raffles Dubai stopover.

• Domestic airport transfers*

Some of the inclusions –

• Return international flights

• Domestic airport transfers* • Return international flights • 2 nights at Raffles Dubai

WATCH OUR VIDEO bit.ly/ opengolf2019

• 1 night at Sheraton Pretoria

• 4 nights at Trump Turnberry

• 9 nights onboard Rovos Rail inclusive of gratuities

• 12 nights onboard Azamara Journey inclusive of gratuities

• 3 nights at One&Only Cape Town

• 2 nights at Dorchester London

• 7 nights at Champions Retreat

• Round at Lost City Course*

• Welcome Cocktail Party onboard

• Badges for the US Masters (Wed/Fri/Sun)

• Round at Durban Country Club*

• Round at The Players Stadium Course*

• Round at Humewood Course*

• Round at Dye’s Valley Course*

• Round at Fancourt Estate*

• Round at King & Bear Course*

• Round at Ernie Els Oubaai*

• Rounds at Champions Retreat Club

• Cape Winelands tour with wine tasting

• Round at Royal Liverpool*

• Hall of Fame Passes

• Table Mountain visit

• Round at The K Club*

• Return international flights • 2 nights at Four Seasons Dallas • 5 nights at TPC Sawgrass Marriott

bit.ly/ masters2018

Latitude 33 - A Degree of Difference Level 9, 64 Castlereagh Street Sydney NSW 2000

WATCH OUR VIDEO bit.ly/ sagolfingsafari

• Official Open Championship entry at Royal Portrush (Sun) • Round at Ailsa Course* • Round at King Robert the Bruce Course* • Round at Royal County Down* • Round at Royal Troon or Prestwick Club*

Toll Free: 1300 636 848 Phone: +61 2 9274 4044 reservations@latitude33.travel

www.latitude33.travel *Please ask for terms and conditions.

On TOUR

26

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Presidents Cup – A to Z The Presidents Cup might not match the drama and excitement of the Ryder Cup, but it has had its thrills and spills including a controversial sacking, writes DAVID NEWBERY A is for Africans. Three African players – Charl Schwartzel, Louis Oosthuizen and Brandon Grace (all South African) make up the International team.

B is for bottom line. The bottom line is the Americans have the edge with eight of their players in the top-20 in the world to the International team’s three.

C is for captains. Steve Stricker will lead the Americans with assistants Fred Couples, Tiger Woods, Davis Love III and Jim Furyk while Nick Price will captain the Internationals with the help of assistants Ernie Els, Tony Johnstone, Geoff Ogilvy and Mike Weir.

D is for Day. Can Jason Day bounce back after a dismal showing in Korea in 2015? At the time, he was the Internationals’ number one player and only contributed half a point from five matches.

E is for Ernie Els. The South African, who made an incredible eight Presidents Cup appearances between 1996-2013, is back as an assistant captain.

F is for format. The format consists of 12 players per side. All 12 players must play foursome and fourball matches on Thursday and Friday (six matches per session) and each player must play a one-on-one singles match on Sunday.

G is for gamesmanship. There is no place for gamesmanship in golf although matchplay team events are the exception.

Each player will look to unsettle their opponent early and in tightly-fought matches, a “gimme” is no guarantee.

H is for help. More than $38.4 million has been raised for charity since the inception of the 1994 Presidents Cup. The event has impacted more than 450 charities in 15 countries worldwide and 35 states in the US. I is for irritant. Those annoying people who continually yell out “get in the hole” when a player tees off on a long hole. Give it a break, folks and no more “you da man”.

J is for Japan. Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama, currently enjoying a great run of form, will lead the Internationals into battle.

K is for Korean. At the time of going to press, Korean Si Woo Kim, who won the Players Championship, was one of the top-10 International players.

L is for lost. The Internationals have lost eight of the 10 Presidents Cup contests. Their

only win was at Royal Melbourne in 1998 with 2003 declared a tie at Fancourt in South Africa.

M is for mutiny. In 1996, Australian David Graham was controversially dumped as International team captain. No one knows who led the revolt or why there was a revolt in the first place.

N is for Nicklaus (Jack). Nicklaus is the only US team captain to suffer a loss in Presidents Cup history. The world’s greatest golfer has captained the US four times for one loss (at Royal Melbourne), a tie and two wins.

O is for oldest. At 49 years and 353 days, American Jay Haas is the oldest player to line up at the Presidents Cup (2003).

P is for perfect performances. Five players have perfect records at the Presidents Cup.

In 1996, Mark O’Meara won all five matches.

Shigeki Maruyama did it in 1998, Tiger Woods in 2009, Jim Furyk in 2011 and Branden Grace in 2015.

Q is for quip. “To this day it is the greatest sporting event with which I have ever been involved,” said Jack Nicklaus on the 2003 Presidents Cup, which ended in a tie when Tiger Wood and Ernie Els played suddendeath holes into darkness.

R is for record appearances. American lefthander Phil Mickelson has made a record 11 appearance at the Cup. The question is, will he be a captain’s pick in 2017.

S is for sides. At press time, the top-10 Americans were Dustin Johnson, Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Daniel Berger, Rickie Fowler, Brooks Koepka, Kevin Kisner, Charley

CLUB FITTINGS AND LESSONS WITH THE TRACKMAN ARE AVAILABLE NOW!!

Please see the Pro Shop staff for prices

Redcliffe Golf Club Handsworth Street, Clontarf Beach, Qld 4019 Clubhouse 07 32845485, Pro Shop (07) 3284 2957

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Hoffman, Matt Kuchar and Kevin Chappell.

The Internationals: Hideki Matsuyama, Jason Day, Adam Scott, Charl Schwartzel, Louis Oosthuizen, Marc Leishman, Branden Grace, Si Woo Kim, Jhonattan Vegas and Adam Hadwin.

T is for tied. In 2003, the Presidents Cup finished in a tie (17-17) in South Africa and captains Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player agreed, after some debate, to share the spoils when darkness fell and interrupted the playoff between Tiger Woods and Ernie Els. U is for unknown. Can the Americans win with a team of rookies? At press time, six of the top-10 US team are rookies – Justin Thomas, Daniel Berger, Brooks Koepka, Kevin Kisner, Kevin Chappell and Charley Hoffman.

V is for venue. Established in 1994, Liberty National Golf Club in New Jersey (US) will arguably give the Americans an advantage.

W is Woods. In all his appearances, Tiger Woods has the record for most singles matches won – six. What will his contribution be as an assistant captain?

X is for x-factor. Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama could be the X-factor. He has won twice on the PGA Tour this year and is ranked number three player in the world.

Y is for youngest. At 18 years and 21 days in 2009, Japan’s Ryo Ishikawa remains the youngest player to play in the Cup. Z is for Zimbabwe. Captain Nick Price and Tony Johnstone, one of four assistants hail from the troubled southern African country of Zimbabwe. Price, a former world number one, played for the Internationals in five Presidents Cups while Johnstone 25 pro events respectively.

2017 Presidents Cup Dates

September 28 – October 1

Venue

Liberty National Golf Club

Location

Jersey City, New Jersey Steve Stricker (USA) Nick Price (International)

Captains

Past Results at The Presidents Cup 2015 -- US Team wins 15 ½ to 14 ½ Course: Jack Nicklaus Golf Club Location: Incheon, South Korea Captains: Jay Haas, U.S Team; Nick Price, International Team Highlights: • This was the first time the Presidents Cup was played in Asia • The United States won for the sixth successive time • A nirban Lahiri (India) and Thongchai Jaidee (Thailand) became the first representatives of their respective countries to play in the Presidents Cup. 2013 -- US Team wins 18 1/2 to 15 ½ Course: Muirfield Village Golf Club Location: Dublin, Columbus, Ohio, USA Captains: Fred Couples, U.S. Team; Nick Price, International Team Highlights: • The U.S. Team captured The Presidents Cup for the fifth consecutive time and eighth overall.

•M uirfield Village became the first course to host the Ryder Cup, the Solheim Cup and The Presidents Cup, and the 2013 event also marked the first time The Presidents Cup was played on a course that hosts an annual PGA TOUR event.

• Tiger Woods clinched The Presidents Cup for the U.S. Team for the third straight time, becoming the first player in event history to accomplish that feat.

27

On TOUR

2011 -- US Team wins 19 to 15 Course: Royal Melbourne Golf Club Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Captains: Fred Couples, U.S. Team; Greg Norman, International Team Highlights: • Royal Melbourne Golf Club once again hosted The Presidents Cup in 2011 making it the first golf club to host the overseas event twice.

• Jim Furyk’s overall record was 5-0, the only unbeaten player at the The Presidents Cup 2011.

There were 10 first time Presidents Cup contestants, 6 on the U.S. Team and 4 on the International squad.

Highlight: • Chris DiMarco’s 13-foot birdie putt on Sunday won the title for the U.S.

2009 -- US Team wins 19-1/2 to 14-1/2 Course: TPC Harding Park Location: San Francisco, Calif., USA Captains: Fred Couples, U.S. Team; Greg Norman, International Team Highlights: • The U.S. Team captured The Presidents Cup for the sixth time in eight events.

• Couples and Norman were both former participants in the Presidents Cup -- the first time that had ever happened. Couples played in three Presidents Cups while Norman competed in two.

• Tiger Woods beat Y.E. Yang 6 and 5 in the ninth match of the day to clinch the Presidents Cup for the Americans.

Two months earlier, Yang had come from two shots off the pace to beat Woods at the PGA Championship.

2000 -- US Team wins 21-1/2 to 10-1/2 Course: Robert Trent Jones Golf Club Location: Prince William County, Virginia, USA Captains: Ken Venturi, U.S. Team; Peter Thomson, International Team Highlight: • Largest margin of victory in history.

2007 -- US Team wins 19-1/2 to 14-1/2 Course: The Royal Montreal Golf Club Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada Captains: Jack Nicklaus, U.S. Team; Gary Player, International Team Highlights: • David Toms earned the most points for the U.S. Team.

• Woody Austin fell into the lake on hole 14 while attempting a shot.

• Canadian golf hero Mike Weir thrilled the crowds with a 1-up victory over World No. 1 Tiger Woods in Sunday’s singles competition.

2005 -- US Team wins 18-1/2 to 15-1/2 Course: Robert Trent Jones Golf Club Location: Prince William County, Virginia, USA Captains: Jack Nicklaus, U.S. Team; Gary Player, International Team

2003 -- Teams Tied at 17 Course: The Links at Fancourt Hotel and Country Club Estate Location: George, South Africa Captains: Jack Nicklaus, U.S. Team; Gary Player, International Team Highlight: • Tie declared after 34 matches and 3 sudden-death playoff holes between Ernie Els and Tiger Woods.

1998 -- International Team wins 20-1/2 to 11-1/2 Course: Royal Melbourne Golf Club Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Captains: Jack Nicklaus, U.S. Team; Peter Thomson, International Team.

Highlights: • First time event played outside the U.S. • International team led by nine points entering singles matches on final day.

1996 -- US Team wins 16-1/2 to 15-1/2 Course: Robert Trent Jones Golf Club Location: Prince William County, Virginia, USA Captains: Arnold Palmer, U.S. Team; Peter Thomson, International Team Highlight: • Fred Couples’ birdie putt on 17 beat Vijay Singh to retain the Cup for the U.S. 1994 -- US Team wins 20 to 12 Course: Robert Trent Jones Golf Club Location: Prince William County, Virginia, USA Captains: Hale Irwin, U.S. Team; David Graham, International Team Highlight: • Fred Couples clinched victory for the U.S. with a tap-in birdie on the final hole.

the original Wind proof umbrella

- often copied but never bettered!

Custom logo printing If you need an umbrella, you’ll want one that works - GustBuster makes even the worst conditions bearable...

With GustBuster you can finish the round, shielded from torrential rain and up to 65mph winds.

DemanD protection - DemanD GustBuster!

Have them custom printed by the best in the business - great for clubs, teams and promotions that matter - provide quality, provide GustBuster!

www.peterwrightgolf.com

Ph (02) 9634 1876

On TOUR

28

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Koepka wins majors title race David Newbery

david@insidegolf.com.au

O

Justin Rose, Charl Schwartzel, Rory McIlroy, Jimmy Walker and Jon Rahm also missed the US Open cut.

PEN Championship winner Jordan Spieth and US Open winner Brooks Koepka were the only two major winners to make the cut in all four majors – the US Masters, US Open, Open Championship and US PGA Championship.

After making the cut in the first three majors, South Africans Branden Grace and Ernie Els, Englishman Matthew Fitzpatrick and Austrian Bernd Wiesberger dropped out of the race when they missed the PGA Championship cut.

Masters champion Sergio Garcia was in the mix going into the final major, but he missed the cut and PGA Championship winner Justin Thomas didn’t make the field after missing the Open Championship cut.

Germany’s Martin Kaymer, who won the 2010 PGA Championship, was also in the running but did not play the final major of the year.

In the end, Koepka finished atop the leaderboard. Seven players finished under par.

After 16 major rounds, American Koepka carded a 1119 total – 21-under par – just one stroke ahead of Matt Kuchar and Hideki Matsuyama with Rickie Fowler a further four strokes back.

Of the Australians, only Marc Leishman made the cut finishing three-over par after 16 major rounds. He tied 43rd at the Masters, tied 27th at the US Open, tied sixth at the Open and tied 13th at the US PGA Championship.

World number one Dustin Johnson eliminated himself from the best in four majors race when he withdrew from the Masters with a back complaint.

Henrik Stenson, Jim Furyk, Danny Willett, Alex Noren and Bubba Watson dropped out after missing the cut at the Masters.

Australians Jason Day and Adam Scott missed the US Open cut while Phil Mickelson withdrew to attend his daughter’s college graduation.

To recap on the major season, Koepka, 27, tied 11th at the Masters, won the US Open, tied sixth at the Open and tied 13th at the PGA Championship.

Kuchar tied ninth at the Masters, tied 16th at the US Open, was runner-up in the Open and tied ninth at the PGA Championship.

Matsuyama tied 11th, tied second, tied 14th and tied fifth respectively.

THE MAJORS SCOREBOARD 2017 Name Brooks Koepka Matt Kuchar Hideki Matsuyama Rickie Fowler Jordan Spieth Paul Casey Charley Hoffman Marc Leishman Steve Stricker J.B. Holmes Russell Henley Kevin Kisner Lee Westwood

Four major scores 287-272-276-284 283-283-271-283 287-276-278-279 287-278-280-279 287-289-268-286 284-286-277-284 290-279-279-289 296-287-276-284 288-283-282-290 299-281-284-286 287-287-282-296 296-296-284-280 289-295-281-295

To par 1119 21-under 1120 20-under 1120 20-under 1124 16-under 1130 10-under 1131 9-under 1137 3-under 1143 3-over 1143 3-over 1150 10-over 1152 12-over 1156 16-over 1160 22-over

Money (US$) 2,834,200 1,957,809 1,800,617 1,112,034 2,201,037 824,427 572,106 502,031 406,470 355,940 381,267 790,336 258,531

Brooks Koepka (Photo: USGA/Michael Cohen).

The best in four majors started with 53 players courtesy of making the cut at the Masters, but in the end just 13 players passed the four majors test.

For the record, Koepka banked $US2,834,200 in the four majors – an average of $US708,550.

Spieth was the only other player to pocket more than $US2m.

Kuchar, Matsuyama and Fowler cracked the million-dollar mark. •

NE O TE G E PL E A ST OM C

AN E X TR AO RD INARY RE T I RE M EN T L I FEST YL E IN THE HILLS OV ER LO O K I N G T H E C A S T L E H I L L CO U N T RY C LU B G O L F CO U RS E

ARCHITECTUR AL D ES I G N E XC E L L E N C E

18 Fairway Drive, Kellyville NSW 2155 Contact Joanne Boik with any enquiries on 0419 333 427 or email contact@cranbrookresidences.com.au cranbrookresidences.com.au

S E N S AT I O N A L G O L F CO U R S E V I E WS

S TAY P L AY

+

On TOUR

30

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Felton claims maiden victory in Rockhampton

Jeffress king of Mt Coolum

J

arryd Felton put on a show in Rockhampton last month, firing a finalround 3-under par 67 to claim the 2017 Ian Weigh Toyota Rockhampton Pro-Am; his first win on the Ladbrokes PGA Pro-Am Series.

Inside Golf columnist Steven Jeffress took top honours at last month’s North Shore Realty Mt Coolum Pro-Am.

Felton finished 18-under par total for the tournament to win by three shots from Matt Millar who fired the equal low round of the day, 5-under-par 67 to storm into second place on the leaderboard and a Tournament total of 15-under par.

Mt Coolum proved a difficult test for the morning field. The combination of small greens, narrow fairways and windy conditions resulted in the best score a one-over-par 73, from Bankstown based Professional Chris Akers.

Starting the day two shots ahead of his playing partner Adam Blyth, Felton came out of the blocks early with his intentions clear from the opening hole.

As the afternoon field moved out onto the course, conditions had eased considerably which made for better scoring from the afternoon players. Jeffress made the most of the calm weather, firing a solid round of 6-under par 66 to win by a shot from Matthew Millar and Brett Rankin, who both shot 5-under par 67.

Birdies at his opening two holes were followed by another birdie on the 8th, followed by a bogey on the par-3 9th hole to turn 2-under par through nine and secure a three-shot lead over the field as he made the turn. Felton increased his lead with birdies on the 13th and 15th holes, with a nervous bogey coming at the long par-4 17th hole.

Felton regained his composure for the 18th hole where he finished solidly with a birdie.

“I played really solid golf all day and then on the 17th hole I suddenly got really nervous and made a bogey” said Felton. “I was pleased I was able to get my thoughts straight on the 18th before I teed off and I finished with a birdie. It’s great to get my first win here in Rockhampton especially over the four rounds. It’s been an incredible week and this will give me a lot of confidence for the remainder of the year”.

“It’s so important to keep the ball in play off the tee on this course to have a chance at shooting a low score”, said Jeffress. “That was my focus today, to drive the ball well off the tee and give myself the best opportunity to hit the green with my approach shots. My wedge play was excellent today and I putted nicely which really helped the score”.

Experienced Professional Matt Millar and runner-up in this event on two occasions couldn’t make up the five shots to catch Felton in the final round. Millar had a bogeyfree final round with birdies on the 1st, 6th and 7th holes to turn 3-under-par followed by birdies on the 14th and 17th holes for a 2-under par back nine.

“I knew I was going to have to play really well today and shoot a low number to have a chance of catching the leaders”, said Millar. “I hit the ball well and gave myself plenty of chances with my approach shots onto the greens but I left a few birdies out there, which was the difference in the end”.

OPEN FOR FREE

Entry and Entertainment 26 – 29 OCTOBER 2017 THE BRISBANE GOLF CLUB

www.qldopen.com.au

Play

Jeffress had seven birdies on his scorecard. Birdies at the 1st, 2nd, 12th, 13th 16th and 17th holes the only blemish was a bogey on the 9th hole where he missed the fairway and had to chip out.

Matthew Millar and Brett Rankin both had bogey free rounds for the day but finished one shot shy of Jeffress.

DYNAMIC DUO

YOUR SHORT GAME - GAME CHANGERS

All PnP Golf Clubs conform to USGA and R&A Golf Regulations.

N O V A TI

GET THE PERFECT SETUP EVERYTIME WITH THE SITELINE ALL SQUARE VISUAL ALIGNMENT (ASVA)

PnP Golf’s patented ‘Dual Bounce Rail’ design and advanced ‘Onset Leading Edge’ glides through sand and combs through rough like no other wedge – with more acceleration and less effort.

Get unparalleled performance from bunkers, thick and wet rough, tight lies and hardpan – these innovative PnP Golf RAKE wedges are game changers!

Why do they work so well?

Sand and rough: The gap between these two bounces provides an avenue for the sand/rough to pass through, thus more acceleration with less effort. You will also have more control, as the rails assist to stabilise the club-head’s intended direction through the sand and rough.

Tight lies and hardpan: With these lies the initial entry of the rails makes it easier (than a blunt bounce) to break through the surface and in effect lowers the club’s leading edge to deliver better contact and ball flight.

N

IN

I AN DES

O

AUSTR

AL

IGN

RAKE IT OUT

ALIGNMENT: THE MOST IMPORTANT ELEMENT TO A SUCCESSFUL PUTT!

The ‘Dual Bounce Rail’ design is exclusive to PnP Golf RAKE wedges.

Visit www.pnpgolf.com

Lob, Sand or Gap Any 2 Rakes Lob, Sand & Gap

$169 ea $299 pair $429 set

PnP Golf has developed an alignment set-up that visually shows you how to correctly align your putt or chip - EVERY TIME!

The SITELINE putter and chipper are the only clubs in the marketplace to feature the world’s first ‘All square visual alignment’ innovation.

GET SET IN JUST 3 EASY STEPS 1. Place the sole of the club flat on the putting surface 2. Set your eyes directly over the ball so you can see the white pointer through the upper ‘V-shaped’ site 3. Aim the ‘white pointer’ to your target line.

Your eyes are now perfectly positioned directly over the ball with the club face set square to your intended target line.

These 3 simple steps will set you up perfectly - EVERY TIME! Now you’re ready to make that putt!

$179

$189

CHIPPER &PUTTER

$329

Free shipping on all orders.

Purchase online: www.pnpgolf.com or call: (02) 6239 3462 30 day money back guarantee! Head Office: 5 Kembla St, Fyshwick ACT 2609

32

On TOUR

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Mr and Mrs Smith:

Sarah Jane and Duane - the quiet achievers Karen Lunn CEO – ALPG

A

ussie Sarah Jane Smith and her husband Duane are likely the most popular player-caddy duo on the LPGA Tour.

They are both well respected and liked for their laid-back attitudes and Aussie sense of humour.

I am pretty confident that there is no-one involved in the women’s game who was not delighted to see the affable duo enjoying a break-out year on the LPGA Tour in 2016, with Sarah Jane finishing a career best 56th on the LPGA money list after 11 years on tour.

Sarah Jane and Duane’s journey into the professional game began back in December 2004, when 20 year-old Sarah Jane Kenyon turned professional after an outstanding amateur career, which saw her represent Australia on six occasions and become the nation’s number 1 ranked amateur player.

From that day on Duane Smith, who was a very accomplished player in his own right, has been by a constant by SJ’s side, carrying her clubs and travelling the fairways of the world with her.

The young couple left Australia for the bright lights of the USA in early 2005, where they spent SJ’s rookie year competing on the LPGA developmental tour, now known as the Symetra Tour.

Success would come quickly, with SJ notching her first professional victory in just her second start.

At the end of the season the Geelongborn Queenslander took the next step up and achieved her childhood dream by gaining her LPGA tour card at the LPGA Qualifying Tournament at the age of 21.

Like many before her, the first few years of SJ’s LPGA career were a bit of a struggle. In her rookie LPGA season in 2006 she made just one cut and was relegated back to the Futures Tour where she spent the 2007 season competing.

As is the case for many professional sportspeople the pathway to success often takes time, dedication and a lot of patience and SJ and Duane’s journey has been no exception.

At the LPGA qualifying tournament in late 2007 SJ finished 20th to gain non-exempt status for the 2008 Tour, which would mean that she would need split her time between the LPGA when she gained starts in tournaments and the Futures Tour on those weeks she did not.

Insurance & finance the fair way.

Golf Business Australia provides competitive insurance & finance solutions for the Australian golf industry & the passionate community that supports it!

Visit us at September’s PGA Expo!!

• Business Insurance • Public Liability & Professional Indemnity Insurance • Home & Contents Insurance

Don’t let insurance & finance be your HANDICAP! Contact us today for a free quote.

• Motor Vehicle Insurance • Life Insurance • Income Protection Insurance • Equipment Finance • Business Finance

E XPE R IE NC E THE B ES T I N Q U EEN S L A N D GO L F Home to some of the finest public access golf courses in Australia, only an hour north of Brisbane and serviced by an international airport, it’s never been easier to relax and unwind.

Test yourself on 4 of the best with the Sunshine Coast Golf Pass, only $299 per player.

PEREGIAN I PELICAN WATERS I TWIN WATERS I NOOSA SPRINGS

1300 852 025 info@golfbusinessaustralia.com.au www.golfbusinessaustralia.com.au

Visit www. golfsunshinecoast.com.au for more GOLF information and to purchase your 4 course pass

SUNSHINE COAST

GOLF SUNSHINE COAST

www. golfsunshinecoast.com.au

September 2017

33

www.insidegolf.com.au

All in all, 2008 was a good year for the now 24 year-old; she recorded her first top-10 LPGA finish at the Navistar LPGA Classic, and followed that up soon after with her second Futures Tour victory at the ILOVNY Classic.

SJ finished the season ranked 102 on the LPGA Tour money list which meant that she had improved her status from the beginning of the year and could play pretty most of the regular tournaments in 2009.

The 2009 season started on a great personal note for SJ and Duane, when they were married in their hometown of Little Mountain, Queensland on January 10th.

However, on the golf course it was again somewhat of a struggle, with SJ finishing 105th on the LPGA Tour money list, keeping a similar status as to what she had started the 2009 season with.

While not a great year it was not disastrous either, SJ would have a similar number of playing opportunities in 2010 to what she did in 2009.

2010 would prove to be SJ’s most successful LPGA season so far; she achieved a career-best finish in a major championship with a tie for 14th at the LPGA Championship (now the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship) and finished in the top-20 on three other occasions. She ended the year 65th on the LPGA Money List, a significant improvement on 2009.

SJ’s next few seasons were again a little up and down, combining some strong finishes with missed cuts. In 2011 her 4th place finish at the HSBC LPGA Brasil Cup was her best LPGA finish so far and in 2012 she recorded two additional top-10 finishes.

In 2014 SJ went close to breaking through for her first LPGA victory at the Kingsmill Championship before finally finishing in 2nd place, and went on to record her best season on the LPGA Tour so far finishing 62nd on the LPGA money list; another big step in the right direction.

Golf can be a cruel game, especially when it is your livelihood, and just when it seemed

that SJ was ready to establish herself as a regular contender on the LPGA Tour, she again stumbled in 2015, with 12 missed cuts from 21 events plaguing her season before finishing 90th on the end-of-season money list.

Her poor early season form had forced her make some tweaks to her swing mid-year, and with some improved results at the end of the season, SJ’s confidence slowly started to return. She finished the year with a solid showing and some impressive performances for Team ALPG at the Queens Cup in Japan in December, and said at the time that she was looking forward to the 2016 season with her confidence restored.

SJ started the 2016 LPGA season ranked as the 202nd ranked player in the world, and had an early setback being forced to withdraw from the opening LPGA Tour event in the Bahamas in January due to illness.

Still recovering she missed two of the next three cuts, followed up with two top40 finishes and another missed cut, before

embarking on a remarkable run of 35 straight cuts made, from the Volunteers of America Texas Shootout in April 2016 through to the Meijer Classic in mid-June 2017. SJ missed the cut at the NW Arkansas Championship the following week before bouncing back finishing in a tie for 14th place at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship.

During this incredible streak, she equalled her LPGA career best finish at the Lorena Ochoa Invitational in Mexico where she finished 2nd, and saw her statistics in all categories improve dramatically, particularly putts per green in regulation which improved from 86th place in 2015 to 23rd place in 2016 which is a dramatic improvement.

The 2017 LPGA season started full of promise for SJ, and she continued where she had left off in 2016, finishing 2nd at the RACV Gold Coast Challenge, missing out by a single shot after winner Prima Thammaraks holed a six-metre putt on the 18th green for victory, and 3rd place at the ISP Handa Women’s

On TOUR

Australian Open after spending much of the week in contention.

SJ’s position on the Rolex World Rankings has continued to soar this year and has improved from 114 in January 2017 to 71 currently, and she has firmly established herself in the leading trio of Aussies on the LPGA Tour along with Minjee Lee and Su Oh. From a personal point of view it has been fantastic to watch the progress that SJ has made over the past 18 months, and it no surprise to those who have played with her or watched her play.

There is absolutely no doubt she has the game to succeed at the highest level, and while seemingly quiet and unassuming, SJ has a steely determination on the course and is a real fighter, as her career so far would illustrate.

SJ and Duane make a great team on and off the golf course and have been through many ups and downs over the past 12 years.

It is a testament to both of their characters and the strength of their relationship that they continue to work so well together on the course, and do not let what happens at work affect their relationship away from the course.

This is most the exception rather than the rule on the LPGA Tour where there have been very few successful husband and wife teams who have seen it out for the long term. I have seen more than a hand-full of them end up in divorce, and it seems that most husbands or partners ending up caddying for another player as the pressure of working together on the course takes its toll on the relationship off the course.

SJ and Duane’ relationship has so far withstood the test of time; 12 years together on and off the course 24/7 is an amazing achievement, especially given the ups and downs they have experienced.

SJ’s career is far from finished, and with Duane by her side I firmly believe that her best days are still ahead of her, there will not be a dry eye in the house the day that team Smith finally breaks through for their first LPGA victory. • Photos courtesy of the ALPG.

ZIPPY GOLF Alligator & Amphibian

Website: www.zippygolf.com Email: sales@zippygolf.com Tel: 0242714658

WORLD’S FIRST FULLY WATERPROOF & FULL SUSPENSION REMOTE BUGGY IPX8 Waterproof Rating Independent Front & Rear Suspension Downhill Speed Control Navigation Straight Line Control Light Weight & Compact Design

Sold Through Local Green Grass Golf Professional

RR $18 P 00

On TOUR

34

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

GYM JUNKIES

Is too much exercise hurting Tour players?

A worrying trend is sweeping across the top levels of golf, as a growing number of younger players are withdrawing from main events, citing injuries. Is the gym to blame?

By Andrew Crockett

T

he week after Si Woo Kim won the 2017 Players Championships in Florida, he withdrew from the AT&T Byron Nelson Championship, citing back problems.

He is 22. The back problems of Tiger Woods are well documented; after several surgeries, it is unlikely he will ever play golf at the top level again. Rory McIlroy, aged 28, has already taken stints away from the game citing back problems and our very own Jason Day (now 29) has had sidelining back problems for the last five years.

Conversely, many of the game’s greatest players, like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer or Gary Player, were never severely sidelined with problems with their spine … despite rigorous practice routines. Sure, players like Greg Norman, Fred Couples and Vijay Singh all suffered their share of back problems, but at a far later time in their careers. Not at the beginning.

So what has changed? Why are the game’s younger stars becoming injured so early in their careers?

I spoke to some legends of the game, as well as some coaches and bio-mechanical experts, to try and discover some clues and solutions to this growing problem in professional golf.

Tiger, Jason and Rory have all transformed their natural frames into looking like gym junkies. Do you think that has had a part to play in the deterioration of their backs?

Greg Norman: I believe there is a correlation between the “new golf fit” and ongoing injuries. Joints are joints, facets are facets and they can only take so much repetitive motion when normal. So add strength and flexibility to those joints, through continual rotational motion of the golf swing, and I believe they become the weakest link and tend to break down the quickest. There is a big difference in being “ego fit” and “golf fit.”

Jack Nicklaus: That would be impossible for me to answer. I would only be guessing.

I think it is great that they keep themselves in shape, but is the body functioning the way the man upstairs intended? My guess is that if you are having problems with your body then perhaps you are in a dysfunctional position that is causing you wear and tear that is excessive.

today have a personal trainer, a nutritionist, etc. To me they are doing everything in their power to make sure their bodies are fit, strong and healthy. Do you honestly believe if they weren’t in top shape that they would not have injuries? Injuries are a part of sports.

Gary Player: That is hard for me to comment on because I do not know their exact exercise regimen. I can say that all three won Majors after they started really working out and exercising. They are not bulked up and seem to be working on the right things. More focus on your core strength, the balance of both sides of your back, and alternative active muscles. Most players

Gary Player: It’s our profession, to practice hard, to exercise, to eat well, and to hit golf balls. And the more you hit, the better you get. Of course, every player needs to take care of themselves, physically and mentally too. Year for year - ball for ball, I have hit more than any player alive today including Ben Hogan who used to tell people, “The secret is in the dirt.” Which, if you think about it,

Is hitting too many full shots in practice shortening some of these guys’ careers?

Are they hitting too hard at the ball?

BRISBANE’S BEST GOLFING SECRET

Clubs include: Capricorn Resort Golf • Yeppoon Golf Club • Emu Park Golf Club North Rockhampton Golf Club • Rockhampton Golf Club

“Relax and Tee off under the sun on the Tropic of Capricorn”

For more info visit www.kortes.com.au

...or call us today on (07) 49 363 153

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Hitting balls never shortened Hogan’s or my career, and I don’t believe it shortens today’s players either. This year I am playing in more than 20 tournaments and know that the fitter you are the longer you will remain competitive.

The amount of times this is done has a huge impact on the body. Muscles attaching to the spine work co-laterally and also work kinetically in chains through the body.

Working with a movement that is mainly one directional will create imbalance. There is a lot of great work by Juliu Horvath with Gyrotonic exercise that can help with training the body in creating balance, this also can be done reciprocally unwinding the system and working with correct neurological patterning. I agree with what Greg said regarding using an 80% power approach to the swing. The rest you can call upon when needed. There is no need to swing a mid-iron at 100%, unless it is bang on the number.

The lighter clubs have allowed faster swing speeds but do not believe there is any more deterioration now than 50 years ago. The equipment is much different. Hitting a steel head probably is better for your back than hitting a wooden club. What has changed is the research that is available about injuries, especially back injuries relating to golf. There was no such thing as a MRI machine in the 1950s so no one really knew why they had a sore back. We usually packed some ice on it and played through any pain because we had to make a living on the course.

Jack Nicklaus: I don’t think so. I think hitting full shots keeps you loose and supple.

Do you have wear and tear on your body?

Most likely. My body has experienced wear and tear over the almost 70 years I have been playing. I don’t have any discs left in my back, and have lost over 4 inches in height from playing golf. Is that a big deal to me?

Not really. But it certainly never affected me during the time I was playing professionally, and I imagine I hit as many balls as anyone else.

PGA Professional Chris Graham: One thing that we are very good at today is explaining and showing people that quality over quantity will win out every day. I don’t feel it is the amount of practice, it is the way they do it and really how hard and far they are trying to hit it. Practice should be measured and directional. Using the body efficiently is key. A high volume of repetition is fine if it’s done without tension and pain. Posture is king when it comes to the golf swing. A correct posture allows

On TOUR

Shane Buckley, Muscular-Skeletal Therapist: A one-directional golf swing (Vector force) will create tension and wind the system up, given the way professional golfers are training, hitting hundreds of balls per session.

means hit as many golf balls as possible and you will find your stroke. I coined my own phrase out of this, “The harder you practice, the luckier you get.”

Greg Norman: Over time it has been proven that power in the game has a huge advantage. In today’s game it is no different.

With the advent of technology in equipment, it has given added emphasis on the power players having more power. So yes, I believe there is a correlation.

35

Also having regular treatments with a health care professional will keep them on track. for an efficient use of the body during the golf swing. Also understanding your body’s limits are essential. Practice is less about how physically fit, more about your mental strength. Generally when you get past the hour mark the brain starts to go soft, and hitting more balls at this point is useless.

Dr David Alred, who works with Padraig Harrington speaks of the five ball theory.

When repairing the swing, we must hit five balls where each ball is given full attention to the actual swing repair, once five repair swings have been made you should change club and then hit a shot with a full routine as if you were on course to test the repairs. This works! Quality will always rain over quantity.

How many full shots, swings at 100% swing speed, would you hit during practice in your prime?

Gary Player: I did not count the exact number of shots when I was practicing. My mind was focused on improving. When I was tired, I made myself keep going. I would say to myself - practice harder, practice longer than anyone else. Whether at full swings, bunker shots, putting, all of it. That is how I got my edge. My physical and mental edge. Of course, you need balance in training as well as your life.

If I was getting ready for a tournament (and especially a Major), I would hit balls from sun-up to sun-down. Sometimes I would practice bunker shots until it was dark and I wouldn’t leave unless I holed five in a row.

Peter Thomson: About ten.

Greg Norman: Very seldom did I ever swing above 80%. But when I needed that extra 20% I could easily draw on it.

Jack Nicklaus: I never hit very many shots, ever, at 100%. When someone would ask ‘How far did you hit the ball?’ I would reply, ‘As far as I needed to.’ Sometimes I hit it at 100% and sometimes at what felt like 110%, if that is what I needed to do.

Did I do that often? No, it wasn’t necessary.

I hit the ball hard all my life, but did I hit it at 100% every time I hit it? No and I don’t think these young boys do either.

Tom Berndt, Hills International: Very rarely would you be hitting at 100%. Most top professionals will hit balls between 90 to 95% with their full shots. During their career, they might hit, say, 500 balls/week for 40 weeks of the year during their career that might span 40 to 50 years.

Do you think we should be encouraging young players to cool down their practice sessions by swinging left-handed, or doing some sort or reciprocal training on the other side of their bodies?

Greg Norman: Absolutely. The body has two sides and balance is so important for longevity. I wish I was aware of this very fact when I was in full body development mode.

Jack Nicklaus: Absolutely. Some guys do, some guys don’t. I have seen Gary Player and Tom Watson both swing a weighted club in the opposite direction just to balance their body, and I think it is probably a good thing.

Did I ever do it? No. But that’s just me.

Gary Player: No doubt. Absolutely. Not cool down their practice sessions, but make sure to stretch out properly, including the other side of your body and spine, during warm up. Stretch your legs, arms, shoulders, etc. I do this every time before I hit full swings on the range. Get a heavy weighted club and take right- and left-handed practice swings.

Double for the opposite side you play from.

Believe me it makes a world of difference and is the secret to my longevity, flexibility, and never suffering from a day of back pain. • Photos courtesy of USGA, Dustin Satloff, Inside Golf

LakeLands Mens Open 2017 Black Tee Stroke event includes some refreshments $105 per person Remaining events

September 20th October 18th November 15th

proudly sponsored by... ® ®

Contact our friendly staff today. 100 Lakelands Drive, Merrimac, Gold Coast QLD 4226. For Golf bookings phone (07) 5510 6507. www.lakelandsgolfclub.com.au www.lakelandsfunctions.com.au

Club of the month

36

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

CLUB OF THE MONTH >

Monash Country Club B

EYOND the large gates on Powderworks Road, in the shadows of the famous Baha’i Temple at Ingleside on Sydney’s famous Northern Beaches, lies a ‘cathedral’ of a different kind.

It’s one that golfers ‘worship’ as one of Sydney’s private Group One courses, sitting firmly in many golfers’ “must play” lists.

It’s just part of the aura that is Monash Country Club; and with recent course developments taking place there, members and their guests are excited about the future direction of this popular club.

General Manager John Harrison, who is also a PGA member, explained that the club was right in the middle of one of its busiest years, with a stunning redesign of the 18th hole facilitating a redevelopment of the driving range, along with an ongoing bunker renovation program.

For those who have not been lucky enough to see it, Monash is set among stunning natural bushland and boasts views of the Pacific Ocean.

With large amounts of natural sandstone and granite, Superintendent Rob Sain and his team have been working hard to expose this natural rock around the course itself with stunning effect . . . all of which has been positively received by Monash members.

Harrison has been working with a Board who are focused on delivering the vision of

the ‘best golf club experience in Sydney’s north’ and that has allowed Harrison and his team to focus on providing greater communication and service whilst putting resources into making the course more playable for everybody.

“Having the team buy into this vision is vitally important as it is more than just the golf at Monash,” says Harrison.

“We have received fantastic feedback recently in corporate events and club functions,” he said.

“With all these exciting developments, there is a wonderful buzz around the club.

“Yet I believe we have only just scratched the surface of what we can achieve. It might sound a little clichéd but Monash really is a hidden gem here – and any of our members will tell you that.”

Membership to Monash continues to grow and numbers are strong.

“It is a tough time for many golf clubs, however we are fortunate to have a very solid membership base and in recent times have shown excellent growth with a low attrition rate,” he said.

“We also boast a very attractive corporate membership package which offers flexibility for our corporate members including function rooms for off-site meetings with wonderful views of the ocean and the course.

“A lifestyle category which currently has no joining fee is also available and perfect for those who are time-poor who still enjoy their golf enough to want access to a course of this calibre. Our Ladies Golf Intro programs are also popular.”

Monash also has an impressive list of reciprocal clubs worldwide which the members enjoy.

Monash’s signature hole is probably the 13th hole with a dramatic drop-off from the top of the rock shelf down to the green. It is a unique hole, and a favourite of one of the club’s resident professionals Adam Groom, who rates it as the perfect risk-and-reward hole.

Monash boasts a strong heritage of success in producing some fine amateur players,

some of whom have performed well in the individual arena.

They also continue to achieve consistent success in both men’s and women’s pennant golf.

Members include the likes of Cameron Davis, who this year began to make his mark as a rookie on the Canadian Tour and Jacqui Morgan, who continues to dominate women’s senior amateur events. Additionally, Tim Stewart and Adam Groom have both played on PGA Tours all over the world.

“We are heavily represented in junior golf teams as well as ladies and men’s pennant teams and our success is due in no small part to the coaching role of Head Professional Glenn Phillips,” said Harrison.

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

> Driving range a winner WITH such a fabulous asset on hand for a private Sydney club, Monash Country Club’s driving range has been renovated to improve the drainage, irrigation, turf quality and hitting bays.

At 250m, the ability to hit driver is a bonus not available on many ranges these days.

Monash’s range has a couch grass practice area, 25 mats plus a covered teaching facility for all-weather lessons and club fittings.

In coming months, the club will also be adding three artificial target greens situated at about 80m, 130m and 170m. Add to this a huge practice chipping green, putting green and practice bunkers it is no wonder Monash continues to attract members of all ages.

> 18th hole the talk of the town RENOVATIONS to the 18th hole, following plans from course architect Jim Wilcher, have transformed the hole into what will be one of the best signature finishing holes in the country.

At just 320 metres, demands are placed on the tee shot, with the perfect approach being from the left-hand side to avoid being blocked out on your approach.

Clearing has taken place on the left-hand side of the fairway, exposing the water, making it visually much more intimidating when you stand on the tee.

Up on the green and continuing the theme of exposing the bush-rock on the course, the front left bunker is gone and two new bunkers are seemingly built into the exposed rock shelf on the right-hand side.

The huge right-to-left slope of the old green has been replaced by a new green which sits lower and now provides many more pin positions and a 30m variance from front to back.

The strategic planting of natives on the high side of the hole and the wall-to-wall turf at the rear of the green creates an amazing amphitheatre to conclude your round.

The 18th hole is on track to open in October – and with a new course record in the offing, it may also force many members to re-think not only their strategy for playing Monash but which hole is both the club’s signature – and their favourite.

> Harrison a perfect fit at MCC After 22 years as a loyal servant to one leading golf club, the chance for a PGA member to become General Manager of a Group One golf course was too good an opportunity for John Harrison to refuse.

“Monash Country Club has always been a magnificent golf course and I’d always enjoyed the challenge of playing here,” says Harrison.

“Leaving a role in which I was confident and comfortable to take on the GM’s role at Monash was really exciting . . . yet daunting as well.”

Harrison explained that he was never going to make his fortune as a professional golfer, making a move into club management was the right direction for him to take.

“Although it’s a challenge I’m so glad I made the change,” he said.

“We need passionate golfers in management or operational roles and it is definitely an avenue for other PGA members to explore outside of the Pro Shop.

“We should know better than anyone what golfers want from their club membership.

37

Club of the month

“Time spent running the multi-faceted role of the golf operations and the service standards required was great grounding,” he said.

What has impressed Harrison most since he joined Monash is their passion for the game.

“The members have been terrific, and along with the Board, very supportive,” he said.

“They are passionate about their club, they absolutely love their competition golf and the challenge which Monash presents.

“They also pride themselves in our course presentation and it is why managing the immediate playing surfaces are so critical.”

Harrison is very much a hands-on GM as well and makes sure he doesn’t spend his days desk-bound.

“Our course superintendent Rob Sain has been excellent to work with,” he says.

“He has great energy, passion and a perfect eye for enhancing the natural beauty of the property.

“This is not your average golf course . . . it is also a friendly, social and welcoming club – the type of place where you want to be playing your golf now.”

Corporate Membership is Now Open at Monash Country Club Nestled high on the hill with views to the Pacific Ocean lies a hidden gem on Sydney’s Northern Beaches

A limited number of Corporate Memberships are now available. Entertain your clients in this peaceful location only 40 minutes drive from the CBD. Combine the Private golf course, unparalleled practice facilities, stunning views from the bar or function rooms and you will find mixing business with pleasure is effortless at Monash.

Contact us to find out about our special corporate intro offer.

Information on Private Membership is also available on request

Clubs

38

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Kooindah Waters back on track

NSW Amateur gets Royal treatment The 2018 Men’s and Women’s NSW Amateur Championships are on their way to the Australian Capital Territory in January 2018, with Royal Canberra Golf Club and Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club set to host the revered events.

“Royal Canberra and Gungahlin Lakes are two of the finest golf courses in Australia. It will be a thrill for many of our game’s elite amateurs to experience the challenge of these beautiful layouts,” said Graeme Phillipson, General Manager of Golf - Golf NSW.

L

IKE the weather that rocked them earlier this year, things have certainly changed for the better at Kooindah Waters on the NSW Central Coast.

And as the club begins working towards their first-ever two-day pro-am on October 30 and 31, General Manager Andrew Porter reports things could not be better and the course is back on track to being one of the best in the country.

Porter reports the club experienced a record number of rounds in July for that time of year and the majority of those players left the course at the end of the round safe in the knowledge that Kooindah was now back to being close to its very best again after a testing period, mostly brought on by the weather.

“We have good bookings for the weeks ahead and are now looking forward to two massive events in this club’s diary,” said Porter.

“The first of those is the two-day pro-am on October 30 and 31st where we expect some big-name players will get their first look at our layout . . . and a few weeks after that, on November 19 and 20 we will host the two-day Ladies Classic, which is scheduled for a Sunday and Monday.”

Porter has had a rough opening to the year but happily reports that Kooindah is once again moving in the right direction – upwards.

And the exciting thing is they have learned so much during that tempestuous period.

And one of those things is to keep an eye on members and their health and wellbeing.

“We pay for members’ consultation if they feel they need to talk to someone and outof-competition care, if you want to put it that way.

“Kooindah Waters is not your traditional golf club ... we care for our members – and their health and well-being.

“We want to connect with them and we felt this might be just one way we could do that.

“Like the newly-refurbished greens, the new superintendent, the current bookings, everything is looking upbeat and positive here again – and we couldn’t be happier.

“Sadly we lost a couple of valued members who were well-known golfers in this area,” said Porter.

“We now have a couple of really good events coming up and members are looking forward to being a part of the program.

“It hit our members pretty hard so we discussed this and have engaged a sports psychologist to help our club.

“Kooindah Waters looks a treat again ... and golfers should treat themselves to a game here ... they won’t be sorry.”

The Men’s NSW Amateur is one of the oldest events in world amateur golf, dating back to 1898. The list of winners who have lifted the trophy includes Bruce Devlin, Jack Newton, Brett Ogle, Peter O’Malley, Jim Ferrier, Michael Campbell and Lucas Parsons.

The NSW Women’s Amateur Championship has been contested since 1903. Two recent past champions have come from the ACT; Nadina Campbell, who won in 1998, and Royal Canberra’s Nikki Campbell, a three-time winner from 2000 to 2002.

Over 260 male and 140 female golfers from across Australia, the Pacific, the United Kingdom North America and Asia are expected to compete.

The tournament will consist of one round of stroke play at each of the host courses before the field is cut to the top 32 for men and top 16 for women. From there, 18-hole match play rounds will take place to decide the eventual finalists. A 36 hole final for both men and women will decide the Champions for 2018.

The Championships will begin on Monday, 29 January, with the 36-hole final decided on Friday, 2 February 2018.

2017/18 Memberships Now Available Caloundra Golf Club 1 Charles Woodward Drive, CALOUNDRA QLD 4551 | Ph: (07) 5491 1811 admin@caloundragolf.com.au | www.caloundragolfclub.com

40% Discount on 18 Hole Green Fees FOR SENIOR CARD HOLDERS

ReduCed to: $28 peR peRson oR $42 peR peRson with shaRed CaRt MONDAy tO FRIDAy

USED GOLF CART SPECIALS!

2013 Club Car Precedent Electric Rare Black on Tan Colour combo.

Club and Ball washer, esky, Bag Cover, two sand bottles.

FULLY OPTIONED!

3,690

$

2011 Club Car Precedent Petrol 350cc Kawasaki Petrol engine, freshly serviced with genuine Club Car parts. Very rare factory Petrol.

PETROL!

4,190

$

2013 Club Car Precedent Electric Genuine Candy Red with Sport Seats and 18 month old batteries and plenty of options. SPORT SEATS! – Free Bag Cover valued at $499

6,490

$

2013 Club Car Precedent Electric NEW BATTERIES! Rare Black on Tan Colour combo. Club and Ball washer, esky, Bag Cover, two sand bottles.

FULLY OPTIONED!

4,990

$

2010 Club Car Precedent Electric NEW BATTERIES! Particularly good example in popular Green.

Cheap and reliable golfing.

AMAZING VALUE!

3,990

$

2011 Club Car Precedent Petrol 350cc Kawasaki Petrol engine offered freshly serviced with genuine Club Car parts.

Red PETROL!

4,490

$

2012 Club Car Precedent Electric 12 month old batteries. Sought after Red on Tan Colour combo.

Great example, will sell fast.

GREAT BUY!

4,290

$

2013 Club Car Precedent Electric NEW BATTERIES! Folding flip seat kit at the rear. Rare Atlantic Blue.

Choice of other colours available.

4 Seater!

6,990

$

2013 Club Car Precedent Electric Tidy and original White on White colour combo. Excellent value, Club Car quality and affordable.

BE QUICK!

National delivery available! Contact Us to find out more. info@ingolf.net.au | 02 9539 8899 | www.ingolf.net.au

3,290

$

40

Clubs

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

No stopping junior sensation Issy David Newbery

The Brisbane GC general manager Geoff Kuehner gave the challenge his stamp of approval.

B

“We thought that having two teenage champions at a club that is 121 years old was something pretty special, so why not celebrate that achievement with a milestone event,” he said.

david@insidegolf.com.au

RISBANE junior golfer Isabelle Simpson isn’t wearing out her soft spikes walking the fairways – she’s wearing them out walking to the podium to collect trophies.

“With Issy and Lawry keen to pit their golfing skills against each other, why not have a playoff?

The 16-year-old is a member of The Brisbane Golf Club and at the time of going to press had won her ninth tournament this year.

“Sure it’s a club promotion and a bit of fun, but I’m sure both will be taking it seriously and wanting to win.”

By the time you read this, it could be 10 or 11 titles.

After becoming the youngest player to win the ladies club championship – an honourboard event since 1909 – Issy, as she is affectionately known, captured the prestigious Brisbane Cup (nett and gross).

Asia Pacific Amateur heads to New Zealand

Issy will play from the red markers and Lawry from the blue.

In addition to playing pennants in Brisbane, Issy was invited to play Division 1 pennants for Yarra Yarra Golf Club in Melbourne.

Isabelle Simpson juggles the club championship and Brisbane Cup trophies.

“I played in the Australian Amateur Championship in Melbourne in January and was the youngest in the field,” the 1.3 marker said.

To win the club championship, Issy had to get past 10-time winner and club legend Lynne Conroy, a winner of 53 honourboard events, in a 36-hole matchplay final.

There’s another challenge ahead.

On Sunday, September 17, Issy will play men’s champion Lawry Flynn, 19, in an 18-hole matchplay event to decide the “overall” champion of The Brisbane Golf Club.

“She threw down the gauntlet to Lawry and the club,” her dad Jon told fellow golf writer Tony Durkin.

“It’s no secret that most golf clubs regard their male champion as the overall champion, so with our society today being more inclusive than ever before, Issy was keen to bring down that long-held belief and beat Lawry to the bragging rights.”

“Although I finished 34th and missed the matchplay series by one stroke, the people at Yarra Yarra offered me a complimentary membership and asked me to play pennants for them.

“That was a huge honour and great experience to play on some of Victoria’s prestigious sand belt courses.”

In the past six months, Issy’s victories include the Brisbane Cup, Brisbane ladies Championship, Titleist Two-Day Winter Classic, NT Women’s Foursomes Championship, Virginia GC Women’s Foursomes Championship, BDLGA A grade pennants champion (as a member of the Indooroopilly team), Weekend Ladies Tray (Indooroopilly Golf Club) and Met North Schools Trials winner.

2016 Asia Pacific Amateur Champion Curtis Luck

NEW Zealand’s Royal Wellington Golf Club will host this year’s 72-hole Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship (AAC) – the most important amateur golf tournament in the region.

Played from October 26-29, the winner will earn an invitation to the 2018 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club as well as The 147th Open at Carnoustie in Scotland.

Competition will be between more than 100 amateurs from 41 countries.

Played on the refurbished Heretaunga course at Royal Wellington and broadcast live to more than 160 countries, the AAC will be one of the biggest golf events ever staged in New Zealand.

The Asia Pacific Championship is now in its ninth year.

The tournament was the brainchild of the Masters Tournament, the Royal and Ancient and the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation to develop the game throughout the region.

In its short nine-year history, the championship has seen the birth of some of the game’s future heroes including two-time AAC champion Hideki Matsuyama, who is now one of the top-ranked players in the world.

Last year, Australia’s Curtis Luck took top honours, narrowly defeating Brett Coletta by one shot.

For more information, visit www.aacgolf.com

Keperra Country Golf Club - Home of the 2017 Keperra Bowl

Membership - Corporate - Public Access - Conferences - Celebrations

keperragolf.com.au

September 2017

41

www.insidegolf.com.au

Clubs

Howeston pro-am a showstopper David Newbery

“He puts his heart and soul into the pro-am,” Lynn said.

H

It’s a real team effort at Howeston. Little wonder the facility runs like a well-oiled machine.

david@insidegolf.com.au

OWESTON Golf Course at Birkdale in Brisbane’s eastern suburbs celebrated its 45th anniversary on June 25 and this month the popular venue will host its 38th successive pro-am.

Of course, no tournament would survive without the generosity of sponsors and supporters.

For owners Bill and Lynn Weston, transforming a dairy and strawberry farm into a successful 27-hole layout enjoyed by professionals and amateurs alike has been a real success story.

“A lot of pro-am sponsors have stuck with us through the years,” Lynn said.

“Our major sponsor BMD has been a big pro-am supporter for a long time, but going back even further are local supporters like Wellington Point Hotel, Yellow Cabs and Capalaba Social Golf Club.

“When we decided to build the golf course all those years ago we never dreamt it would be such a success,” Lynn Weston said.

“They (Capalaba Social Golf Club) helped us get the pro-am up-and-running and have been marvellous.

Year-in and year-out, the Westons have made course improvements and embarked on beautification programs.

Last year, the landing area on the 365m fourth hole on the Weston Course was raised in front of the island green and recently a new bridge crossing the creek on the Weston Course was completed.

One of the event’s highlights is the long drive exhibition conducted on the first fairway.

It’s an exciting sequel to the pro-am and a definite crowd-pleaser.

Right now, the loyal and dedicated staff are putting the final touches to the golf course and surrounds in preparation for the pro-am to be played on Thursday, September 14.

The Howeston pro-am has always been one of the most popular on the circuit with more than 830 different professionals teeing it up over the years.

Peter Senior, Terry Price, Rod Pampling, John Senden, Steven Bowditch and others have been regular visitors.

Last year the spoils were shared when Brad Burns and Nicholas Russell carded 67s.

“They play here regularly and keep up their pro-am sponsorship.”

Last year, Steve Jones opened his shoulders and smashed a 291m drive to win the showdown.

He finished well ahead of runner-up Nicholas Russell (263m) with Mitchell Jacobson just one metre behind in third place.

What makes Howeston Golf Course (aka Royal Birkdale) so popular is it’s a family-run business.

Bill and Lynn’s son Kel and grandsons Kerron, Jake and Lachlan work tirelessly on the course.

Kel, Kerron and Lachlan are all qualified greenkeepers. Another popular member of the hard-working course maintenance team is Danny Cloherty.

Mind you, Russell still holds the record after launching a 359m drive in 2013.

Bill and Lynn’s daughter Donna, daughter-inlaw Sue and son-in-law Keith contributed to the smooth running of the facility along with the friendly golf shop staff.

Steven Bowditch once thrilled the gallery with some booming drives – one a massive 341 metres.

Then there is close family friend Lew Noyes, who works tirelessly to ensure the pro-am is a success.

Now T&C Commercial Plasterers have thrown their weight behind the Howeston pro-am knowing it’s one of the most popular events on the circuit.

At Howeston, the professionals enjoy the fun-filled atmosphere of the event and so do their amateur playing partners and the gallery.

Golf is great value with green fees $18 on weekdays and $22 on weekends.

For more information, call (07) 3207-2452.

Gallery entry to the Howeston pro-am is free.

FOOTNOTE: Howeston Golf Course has 27 holes, which are broken up into three separate nine holes – the Howard, Weston and the Westward. The pro-am is on the Howard (par35) course and the Weston (par-36) course.

Major Sponsor

Presents its 38th annual $11,000 one-day pro-am | Thursday, 14th September 2017 W. Weston, L. Weston and families wish to thank the sponsors who have made this event possible BMD Group major sponsor T&C Commercial Plasterers Yellow Cabs Wellington Point Hotel Larry McFarlane Cabinetmakers Millars Plumbing Service

Betabord Kai Time Meat Suppliers National Australia Bank Howeston Golf Course Wednesday Club Shand Taylor Lawyers

Allshots Ken Churchill Ray White Wynnum-Manly Birkdale Saturday Club Jenny Thomas Q Tech Linings Capalaba Social Golf Club

Club Car Golf World, Capalaba Birkdale Tuesday Club Monte Rosa Pty Ltd Clear Audio Visual and Security

Lew Noyes Dawn Breakers KR Hot Dogs Covering Australia Col McCarthy Home Builder

Clubs

42

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Golf going wild...and that’s GOOD in the conservation of this forest-building iconic animal.

Lawrence Pope

The key to value-adding on native species is cooperation with state parks staff, conservation and local “Friends Of ...” groups who will usually help with revegetation and species identification free of charge. Some golf courses have hidden floral and faunal treasures that can provide a “stand out” from the crowd and media interest.

A

ustralian golf courses, as a whole, occupy a staggering 800 square kilometres of land. Many of these courses, especially in and around Sydney and Melbourne, are located on prime real estate, leading many councils, developers and the like to suggest that the land could be more sensibly utilised for public housing and parks. Thus, as the populations of our cities grow, there are calls for some courses to be acquired and re-purposed.

When native species damage greens or structures, some courses resort to lethal methods of reducing numbers. This is rarely a sustainable solution and can cause conflict with members of the community who feel the “death penalty” for being a nuisance is unethical. Engagement with wildlife support groups can generate new management ideas and social goodwill, defusing tensions before they become acute. Sometimes a problem can become an opportunity and with appropriate interpretive signage golf-players can lighten-up and enjoy being “players” in the natural world we all share.

However for wildlife advocates, the claim that an increasing population demands more space is also a reason to preserve the open spaces, quiet places, and bushland that currently exist. These areas are currently used as refuges for indigenous species and as a means of experiencing nature and soothing the troubled urban mind.

Golf courses almost always provide a haven for Australian flora and fauna that is hard to replicate in other ways. The combination of open green space, relatively low numbers of slow human foot traffic and an absence of dogs is uncommon elsewhere in suburbia.

Many courses harbour native trees over a century old with nesting hollows providing rare urban housing opportunities for owls, tawny frogmouths, gliders and possums. The frequent presence of water and sometimes wetlands on golf courses also provides ecological niches that native endangered frogs and water birds may take advantage of.

Most familiar to me is the picturesque Yarra Bend Park golf course in Fairfield, Victoria that, on two holes, abuts a resident Grey-headed flying fox colony on the Yarra

Courses like Yarra Bend Park Golf Course in Melbourne are invaluable as refuges for native flora and fauna, such as the Grey-headed flying fox colony (INSET). Photo by Doug Gimesy.

River. It is the only golf course I know of where seeing a federally listed mega-bat species is guaranteed. This type of bat (no sonar, just eyes and ears) pollinates, like a bee, a hundred species of native trees. This bat, however, has also declined by over 98 percent since 1900. Seeing them sleep and socialising in their camp is seeing Australia the way its megafauna saw it a million years before any humans set foot.

But there are challenges. Flying fox colonies are noisy. During mating season, March-April, the colony is positively “going off” as the boys

display their assets, shout loudly and try to attract females (they get many loud knock backs and often a cuffing to get on with).

For golfers at holes 13 and 14, the noise can test discipline and concentration. I call it an “advanced practice” but the players are invariably good natured and wish the batlads “good luck!” The colony can also give off a musty smell. The odour is from a scent the bat boys use to attract bat girls – a kind of bat lynx effect (with similar success rates).

The cooperation and good will of Yarra Bend Park golf course is playing a direct role

Given a chance, most people and organisations would rather put up with a little inconvenience than see beautiful animals destroyed. A new century asks us for new living-with-wildlife ideas and a growing number of clubs, worldwide, are stepping up. In India, courses with visiting monkey troupes have a rule: “play the ball from where the monkey drops it”. Now, THAT’S wild!

Lawrence Pope is the President of Friends of Bats & Bushcare Inc., a Parks Victoria registered `Friends of `group.

Lawrence works as a volunteer caring for the flying fox colony and surrounding Yarra Bend Park.

KOORALBYN VALLEY GOLF COURSE QUEENSLAND’S MOST CHALLENGING LAYOUT

Copperhead Challenge

Every Thursday & Public Holiday (Except Christmas Day)

Guaranteed Prize for Each Weekly Challenger!!

1. Trophy, shirt, holiday & unlimited golf voucher (worth up to $500) 2. 2-5 nett and gross winners will get $100 holiday voucher + extra $40, $30, $20 and $10 golf voucher each 3. $100 holiday voucher if you break handicap, win the longest drive (16th Hole) or nearest the pin (all par 3 holes) 4. $10 golf voucher guaranteed for each challenger if you do not win any of the above when you handover the cross signed scorecard Annual Champion of Champions nett and gross winners’ prize will also include FREE Competition Fee for Copperhead for the rest of their life Country Membership 7 Day Play (inc. Brisbane and Gold Coast) -$480 annual fee

Former Home Course of Jason Day and Adam Scott Previous Tour Pro Greg Norman Golf (07) 5544 5919 Resort (07) 5544 6688

Stay and Play Package from $99 per person twin share* 2 Day Unlimited Golf Package from $149 per person twin share* *Terms & Conditions Apply

www.ramadaresortkooralbynvalley.com.au

NEW & EX-DEMO PRECEDENT

EX-DEMOS AT AMAZING PRICES

FROM:

8295

CLUB CAR PRECEDENTS $

We have a full range of BRAND NEW 2 seaters and 4 seaters available in stock. In a wide range Of colours and options.

HIGHLAND

GOLF CARS

FROM:

9495

1300 90 60 80

N’T BE O W d

lan h g i h

www.highlandgolfcars.com.au UNIT 2 | 6 CAVENDISH STREET | MITTAGONG NSW

au

. m o c . ars c f l o c

B EAT E

N

$

WE

Colour Choice Electric & Petrol Carts

CARTS PRECEDENT 2005 TO 2016 MODELS

this month’s

CART SPECIAL this month’s

HIGHLAND

GOLF CARS

4895

FROM:

3295

ALL WITH WARRANTY

$

N’T BE O W d

1300 90 60 80

lan h g i h

www.highlandgolfcars.com.au UNIT 2 | 6 CAVENDISH STREET | MITTAGONG NSW

au

. m o c . ars c f l o c

B EAT E

N

Brand new Trojan batteries; Balance of New Car Warranty

Petrol Carts ... 40 to choose from Electric Carts ... most with NEW Batteries

WE

BATTERY 2014 CLUB CAR PRECEDENT SPECIAL $

HUGE RANGE

TRAILERS

& BATTERIES

TILTING TRAILERS

this month’s

New On Road & Registered for only

1895

$

Buy your cart from us & we’ll discount further!

CART SEPTEMBER SPECIAL this month’s

BATTERIES 6x6v; 6x8v or 4x12v

1395

$

All makes & models.

Call us for a delivery quote!

HIGHLAND

GOLF CARS

1300 90 60 80

UNIT 2 | 6 CAVENDISH STREET | MITTAGONG NSW

u a . m s.co

r

fca l o c nd

la h g i h

www.highlandgolfcars.com.au

N’T BE O W

B EAT E

N

1800

$

WE

BATTERY SPECIAL

ONLY

NEW GEAR

46

September 2017

>TOP GEAR www.insidegolf.com.au

Mizuno MP-18 SC The Player’s Cavity Back Callaway Forrester 2.0 Cart Bag Forrester cart bags are designed to hold anything you would ever need on the golf course, and keep it organised. Featured pockets include a strategically-placed sunglasses and cell phone pocket, velourlined waterproof valuables pocket and a thermal-lined cooler pocket large enough to get you through a whole round. A hidden pocket on the bottom conceals a full-sized rain cover for those harsh weather days. To complete the look, it comes equipped with an external putter tube and it’s designed with stylish fabrics that make this the perfect bag for any golfer.

RRP: $299.99 inc. GST

Mizuno MP-18 The Craftsmen’s Muscleback Sculpted by YORO master craftsmen, the MP-18 is a throwback to the muscle-backs of Mizuno’s past. The MP-18 features a shorter blade length, cambered top line and steep progression into sharp, compact wedges. Mizuno’s evolved Grain Flow Forged HD process concentrates the grain in their 1025 E Pure Select mild carbon steel billets more tightly for precise feedback.

A narrow topline has an additional camber for further refinement. The line also features sharper, more refined short irons into the pitching wedge.

The MP-18, MP-18 SC and MP-18 MMC flow together within a custom built, mixed set.

Availability: RH only 3-PW

A compact cavity back – sensitively reworked by the same Master Craftsmen who created multiple major winning iron sets. A slightly wider, cambered sole makes this more playable than the muscle back. The thin, tapered top line, short head length and smaller wedges mean this is very much a tour-ready iron. Just 0.5mm taller than the MP-18 blade, with Mizuno’s YORO signature low heel design. Just 1mm thicker than the MP-18 muscleback, with an additional refining camber.

Flows into any MP-18 split set. The MP18, MP-18 SC and MP-18 MMC flow together within a custom built, mixed set.

Availability: RH & LH / 3-PW

Mizuno MP-18 MMC Multi-Metal Cavity / Full metal jacket A three-year project by Yoro master craftsmen led to the development of a highly stable, forgiving multi-metal construction iron - which satisfied their aesthetic demands at address. Even with both lightweight Titanium and heavier tungsten parts sealed within its 1025E mild carbon steel head, the MP-18 MMC maintains a similar ‘tour ready’ profile and size to the MP-18 SC. Features Multi-Metal stability design: Use of both lightweight Titanium (8g) and heavier Tungsten (20g) for surprising off centre performance. Similar in size to the MP-18 SC, with the added forgiveness of multi-material construction. Absence of Tungsten toe weight keeps the short irons more workable.

Availability: RH only / 4-PW

MOTOCADDY S1 Following an extensive upgrade last season, the award-winning S1 boasts a number of gameenhancing features including a soft-touch ergonomic handle; low-profile, quick-release wheels; a streamlined battery tray and the super-fast QUIKFOLD assembly mechanism.

Add these to the nine speed settings; battery indicator; adjustable bag supports, plus compatibility with the popular EASILOCK™ system and it’s easy to see why the S1 is the world’s top-selling electric golf trolley.

The Motocaddy S1 is ideal for golfers looking for an easy-touse and great value entry-level trolley.

SPECIFICATIONS: WEIGHT: 8.9kg DIMENSIONS*: 850mm(L) x 595mm(W) x 355mm(H) MOTOR: 200w MATERIAL: Aluminium COLOURS: Black & Alpine INCLUDES: Seat, Sand Bucket Loop & Charger A seat, sand bucket loop and charger are included. Matching accessories and golf bags with the patented EASILOCK™ feature are also available for the ultimate in style and convenience.

Motocaddy electric trolleys and chargers are covered by a 2-year warranty. Registered Lithium batteries qualify for a 5-year limited warranty. Motocaddy After Sales – a whole new level of service.

RRP: Standard Lithium $1499, Extended Lithium: $1599 1800 656 968 www.motocaddy.com.au

Mizuno MP-18 MMC Fli-Hi The Player’s Long Iron The finishing touch to an MP-18 set - the long iron replacement now used by every Mizuno tour player. A higher-flying option with steeper landing angles, engineered with a profile acceptable to Yoro master clubmakers. The sleek, new profile now envelops a maraging steel face, Tungsten toe weight and internal pocket for enhanced ball speed and ease of use. Features Lightweight Maraging steel face and Tungsten toe weight (20g) for a high, stable ball flight. Just 1mm thicker topline than the corresponding MP-18 muscle back.

Availability: RH only / 2-6 iron

Mizuno S18 Wedges Loft Specialist Design A mid-size, rounded profile, Grain Flow Forged in Hiroshima Japan for the ultimate in short game performance. In the higher lofts, weight shifted up the blade is visible in a thicker, bevelled topline - delivering more consistent spin rates on strikes from high in the clubface. Mizuno’s most loft specialist wedge in every aspect (sole grind, profile, top line and groove depth) from the 46-degree pitching wedge replacement to the 62-degree lob wedge.

The rounded silhouette allows the blade to open without impacting alignment. A thicker top line on the most lofted options delivers spin consistency from high on the face.

Every loft has a unique profile, sole grind and groove depth to be most effective for their expected use.

Available in Black IP or White Satin. Custom stamping options available.

RH and LH / 46 – 62 degree

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

47

NEW GEAR

WE TRIED IT!>

Cobra F-Max Irons and Woods Light, easy-to-hit clubs designed for slower swing speeds

YOUR BEST GOLF IS YET TO COME. INTRODUCING COBRA F - MAX. WITH LIGHTER SWING WEIGHTS, LIGHTWEIGHT SHAFTS AND GREATER LOFTS, YOU’LL BE HITTING THE BALL AS WELL AS YOU EVER HAVE.

Last month, Cobra Golf announced the launch of their new F-Max line, featuring irons, hybrids and woods designed to provide maximum forgiveness for golfers with slower/moderate swing speeds.

Inside Golf took the entire F-Max line to Eastern Golf Club last month, and put them in the hands of some of Eastern’s...ahem... “senior” club members, who eagerly took the clubs on the course for a test drive.

First up was the F-Max Driver.

Straight away, we noticed just how light the club felt. This is due to the lighter shafts, lighter SwingWeights and improved grips sizing.

“This club felt extremely light, and was very easy to hit,” said tester Ted Wallace, a 16-handicapper with a very moderate swing speed. “I gained a significant amount of distance and accuracy to my drives. It’s far more forgiving than my current driver, and was a real pleasure to hit!”

We watched Ted hit a number of drives with the F-Max, and we were amazed at how well the club performed. On many holes, he was able to stripe his drive right down the middle, even when hit off-centre.

And the distance gains were indeed measurable (truth be told, we have never seen him hit the ball so far).

This is likely due to the Forged Ti6-4 Titanium Face insert, which delivers more speed and a larger Sweet Zone™ for better distance on mishits; while internal weighting positioned near the heel promotes a more forgiving, higher, straighter ball-flight.

Next up was the F-Max Fairways and Hybrids. Incorporating the same game improvement features as the F-MAX Drivers, these fairways and hybrids are equally light and easy to hit.

“The thicker grips felt great,” explains tester Vytas Levickis, another of Eastern’s “senior” golfers.

“Even though the shaft was for seniors it did not feel that way. When addressing the ball, the hybrid felt comfortable. Striking the ball with a reasonable swing gave excellent results. And the distance was good and the ball gained stunning elevation off the deck. Interestingly, the loft was a degree lower than my current Nike 4-hybrid, yet striking the ball felt so much easier and

gained much more height than the Nike. This, in turn, gave me heaps of confidence,” he said.

Inside Golf agrees: the F-max woods were brilliant to hit. And if you are among the many golfers who struggle to hit a hybrid or fairway, then you simply MUST give the F-Max a test – they are among the easiestto-hit clubs we’ve ever tested.

Finally, we tested out the F-Max Irons. Available in both variable and one-length sets, the F-Max irons utilise an ultra-light configuration in which lighter shafts and lighter swing weights promote maximum clubhead speed and greater distance for moderate swing speeds.

A variety of our testers put these irons to the test. Shot after shot brought smile after smile to our testers’ faces, with the unanimous verdict along the lines of “Wow... these are so easy to hit!”

Light and comfortable, with larger, LAMKIN REL 360 midsize grips (soft compound men’s standard size grips on women’s irons) the irons feature a satisfying “click” when hit, and feature some amazing consistency on long, mid and short iron shots. They were an absolute pleasure to play, and our testers were very reluctant to give them back!

Driver utilizes a larger, LAMKIN REL 360 midsize grip (standard men’s size grip on the women’s drivers) to improve comfort and consistency off the tee.

The F-MAX Drivers are available in 9.5o, 10.5o and 11.5o degrees of loft for men, and 15o degrees of loft for women. All F-MAX Drivers are available in either the Offset or Straight-Neck hosel design.

The F-Max Fairways are available in both right and left-hand in 16o, 20o and 23o of loft for men, and 19o, 23o and 27o of loft for women.

Hybrids Available in RH/LH in 19o, 22o, 25o, 28o and 31o of loft for men, and 23.5o, 26.5o, 29.5o and 32.5o of loft for women.

The F-MAX Irons family is comprised of men’s and women’s set make ups. Each combines super light-weight designs with the best in game improvement technologies to deliver COBRA’s most forgiving and easy to hit irons ever.

Available in 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, PW, GW & SW. RRP: COBRA Golf F-MAX Driver: $449.95 F-MAX Fairways: $299.95 F-MAX Hybrids: $269.95 F-Max Irons: Steel $129.95 Per Iron/ Graphite $149.95 Per Iron More: www.cobragolf.com.au

Overall, we LOVED the F-Max line.

If you are a moderate or slowswing-speed golfer (re: seniors, women, juniors or the like), then we highly suggest you give these a hit. C’mon...it’s so easy.

SPECS: The F-MAX wood family is comprised of men’s and women’s versions of Drivers, Fairways and Hybrids. Each combines super lightweight configurations with the best of game improvement technologies.

The driver utilizes an ultra-light configuration in which the proprietary COBRA SUPERLITE 50 shaft (SUPERLITE 45 for women’s model) has a lighter shaft structure than its predecessor (COBRA MAX). In addition, the F-MAX

DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY. COBRAGOLF.COM.AU

TECH ON THE TEE

48

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

TECH ON THE TEE INSIDE GOLF LOOKS AT THE NEWEST AND MOST ADVANCED GPS UNITS AND LASER RANGEFINDERS ON THE COURSE TODAY!

we wonder how we ever got along without it! This unit zeroes in on a flagstick in an instant, saving even more time in getting that all-important distance.

LASER RANGEFINDERS: BUSHNELL TOUR V4 SHIFT

The Tour V4 Shift is faster than the Tour V3, 30 percent smaller and more ergonomically designed to increase the ease and accuracy in acquiring yardages. The introduction of Slope-Switch Technology allows the golfer to conveniently toggle between Slope mode for compensated distances and non-slope mode for legal use during tournament play.

Leading with precision technology, Bushnell Golf is also proud to include JOLT Technology in the Tour V4 Shift. When the golfer aims the Tour V4 Shift at a flag, JOLT Technology provides short vibrating bursts to signal Bushnell’s advanced PinSeeker Technology has isolated the target and locked onto the flag. Along with the JOLT Technology, a faster processor has been incorporated into the unit to provide yardage readings faster than the Tour v3.

Product features include: • PinSeeker with JOLT Technology to confirm the laser has zeroed in on the flag • Accurate to within one yard • Five to 1,000-yard range performance (400 yards to a flag)

Bushnell PRO X2 Long-time readers of Inside Golf are well aware of our love for gadgets on the course.

And when it comes to high-quality, ultra-cool gadgets in the distance-measuring category, few companies can compare with Bushnell.

For years, we have used (and loved) the industry-leading laser rangefinders from Bushnell. Sleek, compact and sturdy, the various rangefinders from Bushnell have always been held in high regard on the course.

And the Bushnell Pro X2 is no exception.

In fact, we loved it so much that it’s quickly become a “keeper” in our golf bags.

• 5x magnification (objects appear 5x closer) • Ergonomic design with Stable-grip technology • Fast Focus System •R ain proof •N ew premium carry case and three-volt battery included • I ndustry-leading two-year warranty RRP: $529. www.bushnellgolf.com.au

!

N I W

Inside Golf and Bushnell are giving away a Bushnell Pro X2 to one lucky reader.

Visit our Facebook page to enter! www.facebook.com/insidegolf

Smaller and considerably lighter than previous models, the Pro X2 also benefits from one massive improvement: Speed. This thing is FAST! That’s not to say that the older models were slow, but when compared to the lightning-fast performance of the Pro X2,

Accurate to a 1/2 yard (watch your playing partners’ expressions when you tell them that it’s “Ninety-seven POINT FIVE metres to the pin”!), the unit can give distances from 5-1,300 Yds; 450+ Yds to a Flagstick. There’s also the PinSeeker with JOLT Technology– once it’s locked on to your target, the unit vibrates, eliminating any doubt that you have zeroed in on the flagstick.

Of course, the Pro X2 has all of Bushnell Golf’s groundbreaking laser rangefinder innovations. Tour-trusted Slope-Switch Technology engages Bushnell Golf’s patented Slope Technology, which compensates for changes in elevation (like an elevated green, for example). Best of all, it turns off easily for a USGA-conforming device when needed (during competition play, etc).

Finally, it’s also encased in a fully-waterproof metal housing, giving you peace of mind on those rainy days.

Overall, the Bushnell Pro X2 is a fantastic unit. If you’re in the market for a new laser rangefinder, make sure you test this one out! www.bushnellgolf.com.au

CONDOR LD-1000 LASER RANGEFINDER Measuring just 90 x 72 x 38mm, and weighing under 200g, the Condor LD-1000 is the most compact laser rangefinder available. Pinfinder mode locks in the distance to the nearest object (the flagstick), while the standard point & press and scan modes are also available. 6x magnification and a range up to 900m. Sturdy carry case included. Tried and tested quality over the last five years, with over 3000 sold with 100% positive feedback.

RRP: $169.00 including delivery Australia Wide.

(03) 9755 8881 sales@condorgolf.com.au

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

49

TECH ON THE TEE

Callaway 300 PRO LASER RANGEFINDER The Callaway 300 Pro Laser Rangefinder delivers ALL the distance measurement features golfers need. Now with Slope Technology (can be turned off to conform to USGA rules), elevation changes are accounted for, ensuring truly accurate distance measurements. Whether you’re trying to carry that fairway bunker, or firing at the flagstick of an elevated green, you’ll know the true distance for any shot on the course. With new Birdie technology, the 300 Pro will chirp when laser has locked onto the pin.

RRP: $399 Distributed by Golf Imports 03 5277 3977

Callaway 200 LASER RANGEFINDER The Callaway 200 Laser Rangefinder, featuring P.A.T. (Pin Acquisition Technology) delivers precise distance measurements in a sleek, compact design. P.A.T. locks onto the flagstick up to 275 yards away, ensuring accuracy even when trees and other objects are in the background.

The Callaway 200 is simple, easy to use, and offers pin-point accuracy at a valued price.

RRP: $299 Distributed by Golf Imports 03 5277 3977

SURESHOTLASER PINLOC 3000IP The SureshotLaser PinLoc 3000IP is the epitome of knowing the distance. Being able to accurately and precisely measure the distance to the next pin or even to a hazard is a game changer for any golfer, no matter what their level.

With the addition of Pulse Technology, finding your target is even easier. The unit pulses in the user’s hand to let you know that you have locked in on your target. Along with the 6x magnification this PinLoc 3000IP is easy to use for all ages, all levels and even those new to golf.

Something new is coming...

Your game has never looked so good.

Launching Spring 2017

Key features include: • Pulse Technology • -/+ 1m accuracy • 6x magnification, multi coated lens ensuring optimum clarity • Measurement range of up to 600m • Water Resistant • L ightweight, shockproof and ergonomic design • One year warranty The Sureshot Laser PinLoc 3000IP will add an extra edge to the way you play. It is easy to use with minimal effort and maximum output.

RRP: $299 03 8872 6700 www.sureshotgps.com.au

50

TECH ON THE TEE

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

NEW

PRO X2 FEATURES: Slope-Switch Technology Rubber Armoured Metal Housing • IPX7 Fully Waterproof • Pin Seeker with JOLT Technology • Accurate to a 1/2 yard • Ranges 5-1,300 Yds; 450+ Yds to a Flag • Dual Display Technology • 6X Magnification • 2nd Generation E.S.P. • Fast Focus System • Stable-Grip Technology • •

WATCH FEATURES:

APP FEATURES:

Bluetooth integration with smartphone for course updates without needing to sync with a computer • Full front optical mounted colour display with auto brightness adjustment • Long Battery Life – play 3 rounds before charging • Preloaded with 35,000+ courses • Easy-to-Read Front/Centre/Back Distances •

Up to 4 Hazard Distances Per Hole • Auto Course Recognition and Hole Advance • Integrated Fitness Step Counter • Swing Tempo • Weather • Stopwatch/Alarm/Timer • Water Resistant •

bushnellgolf.com.au

@BushnellGolf

App included with purchase of Excel Watch • Full colour aerial views of hole layouts with distances • 3D flyovers with distances • Scorekeeping • Swing analysis stats • Pedometer and Fitness Trackers •

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

RICKIE FOWLER 2015 US PGA Players Championship Winner

99% PLAYERS

95% CADDIES

THE UNDISPUTED #1 LASER RANGERFINDER IN GOLF #1 AGAIN AT THE 2017 OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP *SPORT MARKETING SURVEY - AMONG PLAYERS AND CADDIES USING A RANGEFINDER AT THE 2017 OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

51

TECH ON THE TEE

TECH ON THE TEE

52

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

GPS WATCHES AND BANDS

Callaway ALLSPORT WATCH BUSHNELL EXCEL GOLF GPS WATCH The Excel, Bushnell’s most advanced GPS watch, has been redesigned to meet the ever-changing needs of golfers wanting wrist-mounted devices and comes preloaded with more than 35,000 courses.

In addition, it’s equipped with Bluetooth capabilities allowing the golfer to use the Bushnell Golf App to get course updates without needing to sync with a computer and receive call, messaging and calendar notifications on your watch. The Excel is an easy-to-use wrist-worn GPS rangefinder with instant yardage measurements in a simple, fashion-forward design and with no membership fees.

The Excel has industry-leading battery life - lasting 3+ rounds before needing a charge. Additional features include a full frontal optical mounted colour display with auto brightness adjustment, pedometer, odometer and the ability to get up to four hazard distances per hole.

The Excel Golf GPS Watch is also capable of instantly recognizing courses.

WATCH FEATURES: •B luetooth integration with smartphone for course updates and smartphone notifications • I ntegrated Fitness Step Counter • F ull front optical mounted color display with auto brightness adjustment • L ong Battery Life – play 3 rounds before charging • E asy-to-Read Front/Center/Back Distances •U p to 4 Hazard Distances Per Hole •O ver 35,000 courses worldwide preloaded for instant use

The Callaway ALLSPORT golf and fitness watch combines three unique features into one elegant, lightweight design.

On the course, know your distance and lower your scores with distances to the front, centre, and back of greens; lay-up and carry distances to hazards and doglegs, and keep your score on our unique scorecard to over 30,000 courses worldwide. Off the course, stay in shape and maximize your workout with multisport training capabilities including running, swimming, biking, and more. Bluetooth capability allows you to save your scores and your workout information to our free app as well as receive text, call, and email notifications right to your watch.

RRP: $329 (No annual fees or subscriptions) Distributed by Golf Imports 03 5277 3977

Callaway GPSy WATCH A sleek, comfortable design and two color options make the Callaway GPSy Watch a perfect fit for any golfer seeking fast, accurate distance information on the course. Hit more greens and minimise penalty strokes by knowing accurate distances to the front, centre, and back of the green, along with lay-up and carry distances to hazards and doglegs. Also includes auto-hole advancement, shot distance measurement, a scorekeeper to track your score, GIR and putts per round, and even an odometer.

All conveniently and comfortably on your wrist with access to over 30,000 courses worldwide.

RRP $269 (No annual fees or subscriptions) Distributed by Golf Imports 03 5277 3977

BUSHNELL GOLF APP FEATURES: •A pp included with purchase of Excel Watch • F ull colour aerial views of hole layouts with distances •3 D flyovers with distances • S corekeeping • S wing analysis stats •P edometer and Fitness Trackers RRP: $329 www.bushnellgolf.com.au

SWAMI GPS Band Callaway Golfit GPS band The Callaway Golfit is packed with features for its size. The Golfit is the combination of a fitness band with a golf GPS rangefinder. This is the perfect option for the golfer who wants to live a healthy lifestyle with the ability to track their heart rate, steps, and sleeping pattern. With Bluetooth capability, the Golfit can even alert you when you receive texts or calls.

RRP $259 (No annual fees or subscriptions) Distributed by Golf Imports 03 5277 3977

If you’re a golfer seeking a lightweight, comfortable, and stylish golf GPS then the SWAMI Band is the one for you! With a compact size and comfortable strap, the SWAMI Band fits perfectly to any golfer’s wrist. The SWAMI Band gives you accurate distances to the front, middle, and back of the green on over 30,000 courses worldwide. Other features include scorecard mode which allows you to track your score during rounds and shot distance measurement.

RRP $159 (No annual fees or subscriptions) Distributed by Golf Imports 03 5277 3977

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

53

TECH ON THE TEE

SURESHOTGPS Hero 150X The Sureshotgps Hero 150X takes your casual Sunday morning golf game to a whole new level. It provides users with an accurate distance to the front, centre and back of the green – the perfect accessory for all levels of golfers.

HAND-HELD GPS UNITS

Its small and compact design makes it easy to have with you in your pocket, on your buggy or in your bag. Whilst the software makes it easy to navigate and understand pages with large images and clear and easyto-read font size.

Key features include: • F ront, centre and back of green display • I ndividual shot measurement •C ourse card .7” transflective screen •1 • Yard or meter measurements This durable, easy to use handheld GPS is a must have for any golfer wanting to not just guess the distance but ‘Know the Distance’.

RRP: $149 03 8872 6700 www.sureshotgps.com.au

Callaway Eclipse GPS

SWAMI 5000 GPS

The Callaway ECLIPSE GPS offers accurate performance in a unique design that delivers unmatched versatility and convenience.

Don’t let the ECLIPSE GPS’ size and convenience fool you; this GPS packs a powerful punch, delivering front, centre, and back of green distances, even accurate layup and carry distances to hazards and doglegs to over 30,000 courses worldwide.

Reversible/removable clip for ultimate versatility and convenience make the Eclipse one of the most user-friendly GPS units on the market.

The Swami 5000 is one of the fastest, easiest to use hand-held GPS devices on the market.

Swami designers have enhanced many of the features, without sacrificing the simple, easyto-use nature that Swami users love. Features a new scorecard feature (to save your scores), a larger 2” full-colour display, easy-charge magnetic charger, battery life of 12+ hours.

All packed in a slim profile. Comes standard with accurate distances to front/centre/back of the green and lay-up and carry distances for hazards and doglegs to over 30,000 golf courses worldwide.

RRP$199 (No annual fees or subscriptions) Distributed by Golf Imports 03 5277 3977

RRP $229 (No annual fees or subscriptions) Distributed by Golf Imports 03 5277 3977

Hybrid Laser/GPS Rangefinder

Callaway 300 Pro Laser Rangefinder

PIN ACQUISITION TECHNOLOGY

MAGNIFICATION

ACCURACY

PIN ACQUISITION TECHNOLOGY

MAGNIFICATION

ACCURACY

MEASUREMENT RANGE

GPS

BIRDIE TECHNOLOGY

WATERPROOF

SLOPE MODE

BIRDIE TECHNOLOGY

GPS & LASER RANGEFINDERS

SURESHOTGPS Hero 200X

The Sureshotgps Hero 200X is your ultimate golfing companion. Delivering users with accurate measurements to the front, centre and back of the green and any hazards in between.

With 35,000+ pre-loaded courses from around the world and built in automatic hole recognition, the Sureshotgps 200X ensures you will always be prepared for your next game no matter where you are in the world.

Key features include: • F ront, centre and back of green display •H azards 5,000+ worldwide courses re-loaded •3 • E asy to read display •D igital Scorecard • S hot Distance •R ound Timer • Yard or meter measurements This durable, compact and easy to use handheld GPS is a must have for any golfer wanting to not just guess the distance but ‘Know the Distance’.

RRP: $169 03 8872 6700 www.sureshotgps.com.au

Callaway 200 Laser Rangefinder PIN ACQUISITION TECHNOLOGY

MAGNIFICATION

WATERPROOF

MAXIMUM RANGE

ACCURACY

Micro Laser Rangefinder PIN ACQUISITION TECHNOLOGY

MAGNIFICATION

MEASUREMENT RANGE TO PIN

WATERPROOF

www.callawaydmd.com | Distributed by Golf Imports | 03 5277 3977

GEAR NEWS

54

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Callaway to acquire Battery TravisMathew for $125.5m Reviver Callaway Golf Company has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire TravisMathew, LLC, a high-growth golf and lifestyle apparel company, for $125.5 million in an all-cash transaction, subject to a working capital adjustment.

“We are very excited about this acquisition,” commented Chip Brewer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Callaway Golf Company. “With its golf heritage, culture of product excellence and double-digit growth in the golf and lifestyle apparel business, TravisMathew is a great fit with our business, brands, culture and our strategy to grow in areas tangential to golf. This acquisition, once completed, is expected to be slightly accretive to earnings in 2018 and create significant value for our shareholders over the long-term. We look forward to working with the TravisMathew management team to maximize this brand’s growth potential.”

The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including securing regulatory approvals, and is expected to close in the third quarter of 2017. Postacquisition, TravisMathew will continue to operate out of its Huntington Beach, California headquarters.

The purchase price values TravisMathew at a multiple of approximately 11.8 times projected 2017 full year adjusted EBITDA. Callaway also expects to realize significant value from potential tax benefits associated with the transaction.

In 2017, TravisMathew’s net sales are expected to be in the range of $55-60 million, of which approximately $10-15 million will contribute to Callaway’s 2017 second half financial results assuming the transaction closes in the third quarter of 2017.

goes to the snow One of the finest courses in the NSW Snowy Mountains, the Cooma Golf Club has made the decision to install the BLS Battery Reviver to their fleet of rental carts.

Cooma GC features 18 holes, bent grass greens, top class fairways and abundant birdlife, making it an ideal Snowy Mountains destination. The cold weather, however, takes it’s toll on the rental golf cart batteries and the older batteries were running out of power quite quickly due to battery sulphation and the cold climate. This led to the decision to install the BLS Battery Reviver to revive the batteries and restore the performance.

The BLS Battery Reviver dissolves the damaging build-up of sulphur crystals on the lead plates. This sulphur build up inside the batteries has a suffocating effect on the

batteries preventing them from achieving the correct voltage and in turn limiting them from achieving a satisfactory performance.

The BLS Battery Reviver is manufactured and patented in the US and when connected to the golf cart batteries uses Square Wave technology to dissolve the sulphur build up, restoring the voltage and re-strengthening the sulphuric acid. This restores the batteries back to a satisfactory performance.

For more information or to order visit www.batteryreviver.com.au or call 1300 852 433.

Golf Pride launches ALIGN technology Golf Pride Grips has introduced a groundbreaking new grip technology that delivers a new level of consistency in golfers’ games. The new ALIGN Technology features a dedicated raised ridge that extends down the back of the grip for consistent hand placement, allowing the golfer to feel alignment. The

patented ALIGN Technology is featured in the MCC family in both the traditional MCC taper profile and MCC Plus4’s larger lower hand profile.

ALIGN Technology also features a unique micro-diamond texture and 50% firmer material compared to the surrounding grip area to amplify its pronounced feel. The flex

channel separates the ALIGN Technology ridge from the grip body to maximize elevation lift and lock the grip into fingers, while conforming to the rules of golf.

The MCC ALIGN and MCC Plus4 ALIGN grips will hit retail in Spring with a street price of $24.99 per standard size and $26.99 for

midsize grip. For more information, visit www.golfpride.com or phone Golf Imports on 03 5277 3977.

INTRODUCING THE NEW

SINGLE-SEAT RIDE ON CART o 1.5 person seating o Comprehensive after sales service o 2 year warranty o Three great colours

FROM

4990

$ Gain the Power of Independence with the E500 Single Rider Cart along with the reliability of the MGI brand you know and trust.

For more information please contact us at enquiries@mgigolf.com or visit our website.

www.mgigolf.com 11 Maurice Court, Nunawading, Victoria Australia 3131 P: +61 3 8872 6700

56

GEAR

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Our “Behind the Scenes” tour of PING Headquarters It started as a small, garage-based business, and grew into one of the largest American manufacturers of golf clubs. Inside Golf made the trek to Phoenix, Arizona, to peer at the inner workings of PING, one of the world’s most innovative golf club manufacturers.

Richard Fellner

richard@insidegolf.com.au @insidegolf

W

hat do you do when the putts just don’t drop? Get a lesson? Change putters? Well, for Karsten Solheim, neither option was sufficient. Instead, he simply invented his own putter and, without knowing it, launched an international golf powerhouse in the process.

It all started back in 1959 in Redwood City, California. Solheim – an engineer at General Electric (who also notably helped develop the world’s first “rabbit ears” antennae for television – was frustrated with his putting (something we can all relate to!) As he couldn’t find a putter that worked for him, he set about crafting his own putters in his garage. A labour of love, this led to his first PING putter – named after the unique sound that the putter made when hitting the ball.

Eight years later, in 1967, due to the growing popularity of PING putters, Solheim resigned from his job at GE and focussed fully on PING. He eventually moved the business to the golfing paradise of Phoenix, Arizona, and the rest is history.

PING now produces clubs in every category, including putters, wedges, irons, woods and drivers, and the business is considered the pioneers in custom clubfitting. Tour pros including Lee Westwood, Bubba Watson, Louis Oosthuizen, Harris English, Angel Cabrera and our own Nick O’Hern and Aaron Baddeley are all PING staffers, and the results are speaking for themselves, with multiple wins on tour in recent years.

Inside Golf had the pleasure of a behindthe-scenes tour of PING headquarters recently. We were amazed by the sheer size of the facility, and the quality of the products created. The privately-held, family-owned company employs hundreds of employees at their Phoenix facility, which comprises multiple buildings across a mammoth “campus”. Indeed, this place is so big that you need to drive a car from one end of the campus to the other.

Following a short video which recaps the origins of PING, my tour began in the manufacturing facility, which is located across a few massive warehouses and is composed of individual assembly stations (or “cells”). Each cell is charged with a single step of the assembly -- from engraving the individual serial number, to adjusting the swing weight, to laser-aligning the grip to

even painting the unique PING coloured dots on each clubhead. There are around 19 steps for each hand-assembled club, and each station includes a stringent Quality Control process and ‘Chain of Custody’ checklist to be followed before the club is passed on to the next station.

Each club/set has an individual set of specifications to which it will be manufactured. This correlates with the original clubfitting performed by the PGA Pro or Clubfitting/Product specialist. Each step of the assembly process is then carefully tracked by computer to ensure that the final product matches the desired specs. It’s mindboggling, to say the least.

Surprisingly, the assembly process combines an intricate mix of leading-edge technology and good old-fashioned elbow grease. In the Loft & Lie station, for example, the clubface is scanned via a high-tech camera and computer that precisely checks the club’s ordered specs. If the club is off by even a fraction of a degree, the operator whacks the clubhead with an extremely

City Golf Club Toowoomba – hosts of the QLD PGA Championship “play where the pro’s play”

Each station--or “cell”-- features a strict Quality Control process for each of PING’s hand-made clubs, ensuring absolute quality and consistency. low-tech rubber mallet (sometimes, you just can’t improve on simplicity!). The club then gets re-scanned and the process continues until it is within the exact specs. But the operators are so good that it rarely takes more than one whack to get it just right. It’s almost poetry in motion.

The end product is a thing of beauty, with a one-of-a-kind uniqueness to every club.

But the manufacturing goes beyond the irons and putters. Drivers and fairway woods are given the same customised treatment, and are tailor-built to each customer’s specifications. PING believes that a properly fit club—from the start—is the ideal goal, which is a refreshing departure from today’s ‘everything is adjustable technology’ trend.

18 holes for 2 players with cart

froM

$59

9 holes for 2 players with cart

froM

$39

Subject to tee time availability. online bookings only.

book online at www.citygolf.com.au/golf/ members-and-public-bookings/ Book online through our system to play in the month of September and go in the draw to WIN a Wilson FG Tour driver and 3wood package valued at over $700

07 4636 9000 | For more info contact golf@citygolf.com.au or phone 46369070 | citygolf.com.au

Toowoomba

September 2017

57

www.insidegolf.com.au

GEAR

The Ping Vault features around 2800 gold-plated putters from past champions.

PING’s commitment to quality is evident throughout every step of their process.

Even the third-party supplied components (like shafts, etc) are stringently tested and monitored. If a single shaft from an entire lot isn’t perfect, they will re-test the entire lot to ensure 100 percent quality.

Our next stop was the famous “PING Gold Putter Vault”. It’s golf’s version of Fort Knox, and it houses around 2800 gold-plated PING putters which commemorate tournament victories. Every pro who wins with a PING putter gets presented with their own gold putter, while a twin replica is housed in the vault. Many of golf’s greatest names are in there. Nick Faldo, Seve Ballesteros, Bubba Watson, Tom Watson, Payne Stewart and Lee Trevino are all in there, as well as Aussie legends like Greg Norman, Rodger Davis and others. And if you’re looking for a bit of trivia: Lee Westwood has the most putters in the vault, with 57 wins. Next is the late Seve Ballesteros with 46 (though Seve takes the prize for most “Gold Putters from Majors”.)

The high-tech test centre features a pull-out pallet of natural grass that can be replaced after each player has hit. well as Louis Oosthuizen’s PING S56 4-iron which he used (also in 2012) to record the first albatross on No. 2 at Augusta National.

And yes, white gloves are required to handle these little gems.

With “gold fever” firmly ensconced in our heads, we then moved on to the putter research and test centre. Featuring more computers, cameras and technology than you can shake a flatstick at, this place is THE place to learn about your putting. Players first step onto an elevated platform – which is a massive slab of concrete that is perfectly flat to eliminate all variables and vibrations from

the ground. They then take a few putting strokes while an impressive array of cameras and computers record heaps of data – from the swing path to the impact zone to the amount of bounce/skid off the clubface. It can even tell you if you are putting with the right type of putter, ball or overall swing.

Our tour culminated at the massive driving range and test centre. Though it is one of the longest driving ranges we’ve ever seen (a full city block long), PING was forced to erect a 3-storey net at the back, as big-hitting Bubba Watson was regularly belting balls into the neighbouring bus station across the street (easily 400+ metres away).

There is even a Junior putter in the vault, Antonio Maldonado’s 30-inch PING Moxie Craz-E. Maldonado evidently was struggling with his putting, so borrowed a putter from his son’s PING junior set. He then went on to win the 2005 Mexico Open... with the junior putter.

And the vault is not just full of putters.

There are a few “iconic” clubs in there as well, including a gold-plated 52-degree PING Tour-W wedge that Bubba Watson used from the pine straw to win the 2012 Masters, as

Fully wired with the latest technology (including PING’s popular nFlight system), the range also features a full grass tee platform on a pallet that can be replaced from player to player. When a player/tester is done hitting balls off the grass, the entire grass pallet is quickly – ready for the next player to have a hit!

Next door, we saw the famous PING Man, and Sling Man testing robots. A small part of PING’s massive R&D department, these unique machines are fully programmable to test a club’s (or ball’s) performance across a number of variables and conditions, including swing speed, ambient temperature, relative humidity and more. PING Man testers can, for example, put a single blade of grass between the club and ball in order to test resultant spin rates, distance, etc. Or do spin tests on balls that are wet versus dry. Meanwhile, The SlingMan is essentially a giant cannon that shoots (or slings) a golf ball at up to 260mph, with various launch angles, speeds and spin available. It works like a baseball pitching machine, and is extremely impressive to watch.

It’s impossible to highlight all the technology and cool-as-anything elements behind the scenes at PING. But suffice to say, they have achieved a remarkable balance between high-tech/big-business innovation and one-on-one personalised service. •

The science of putting is painstakingly studied by the engineers at PING.

2017 Goldfields Junior Desert Open

Kalgoorlie Golf Course 26th & 27th 2017 Open Event - 36 Holes of stroke & MyGolf Event each day!

Major Sponsors

Prizes & Divisions Open Gross Girls & Boys Open Champions 13 & Under

Girls & Boys Gross Winner & R/up and Nett Winner & R/up

14 - 15

Girls & Boys Gross Winner & R/up and Nett Winner & R/up

16 - 18

Girls & Boys Gross Winner & R/up and Nett Winner & R/up

MyGolf Tiger Cubs

1st, 2nd & 3rd

9 Holes Handicapped

1st, 2nd & 3rd

9 Holes Non-Handicapped 1st, 2nd & 3rd

Contact Information: Mark Baroni - Junior Golf Coordinator Ph: 0407 884 784 Email: markbaroni@westnet.com.au www.facebook.com/GoldfieldsJuniorDesertOpen

Associate Sponsors

TECHNOLOGY

58

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Perfectstroke(s) for not so perfect folks It’s called the Foresight GC Quad.

Larry Canning

ed@insidegolf.com.au

A

TTENTION! Officer aboard.

Well, two in fact. When it comes to the science of rolling your 1.68 inch ball into a 4.25 inch hole, which I miss by an average of 6.5 inches, Mark Officer knows as much as anyone in this country.

So much so, each year Mark is invited to speak at the American tradeshow on the art and science of putting and how to use the most sophisticated putting analyser made, the “SAM” (Science And Motion) PuttLab. Mark’s brother Brett, also a long-standing member of the Australian PGA, has been a regular on TV for more than 20 years with his insightful commentary and his popular new equipment segments on The Golf Show. Brett (aka “Sarge”) was a talented player back in his day.

These two Officers have combined their talents and teamed up to establish the most sophisticated golf teaching facility you would ever want to see. And see it I did, recently, when I met Mark at the Perfectstroke Golf Training Centre at Molendinar on the Gold Coast.

I’ve been around golf coaching long enough to know that I don’t know enough.

So I sat there intently and listened to Mark explain how his brother and he designed both this extraordinary swing and putting laboratory and realising just how advanced this equipment is compared to all the other launch monitors I’ve seen.

This puppy has four cameras, which measure all types of different information including the exact path, angle, alignment, speed of the club-head and then transfers it to a computer screen.

That’s of course after you’ve watched the result of the shot on a giant simulator screen in front of you.

Another camera takes a video of the swing, giving the instructor every last skerrick of information required to begin fixing your problem.

But wait, there’s more.

If you’ve ever wondered how much an uphill/ downhill/sidehill lie really affects your ball flight, distances or balance, the brothers can quickly change the lie by pushing a switch and activating four hydraulic jacks under your feet.

What about a 10- or 20-kph wind from any given direction, I hear you ask. Yep, this bad boy can do that as well.

With my jaw dropping to the point where Mark had to help me lift it back to its proper place just below my nose, my host then offered to take me upstairs and have a crack on the Perfectstroke Putter Lab. As mentioned earlier, Mark is one of the most respected coaches in the world when it comes to the most frustrating part of the game and, as you can imagine, his SAM PuttLab analyser facility was equally impressive.

The perfect synthetic 20-foot green runs at approximately 11 on the stimpmetre, but

condorgolf.com.au

THIS MONTH’S SUPER SPECIAL

TRX

RC5

- Ultra lightweight - 200w motors - aUto Distance (10/20/30m) fUnction - charger, Umbrella holDer, seat, sanD ring inclUDeD - gPs holDers, scorecarD holDers oPtional extras - black or white with range of trim coloUrs

$845 FOR REMOTE CONTROL with 24AH Lithium Battery $735 FOR NON REMOTE CONTROL with 20AH Lithium Battery $645 FOR REMOTE CONTROL with 36AH Gel Battery including freight to any location in australia CONDOR GOLF / ELDRIDGE GROUP PTY LTD Since 2000 4/12 VIEwTECh PLaCE ROwVILLE VIC 3178 TEL: (03) 9755 8881 | EMaIL: sales@condorgolf.com.au

again with the installation of hydraulic jacks under the floor, pioneered by Mark and Brett, you can see firsthand how much influence this can have on a putt.

I don’t know about you but I’ve always suspected that I’ve never really aimed far enough away from the hole on a breaking putt, which means I make a compensation by shoving my ball further up the hill during my stroke. Mark, with the help of SAM, made it blatantly obvious my suspicions were correct.

I couldn’t wait to get back home and practice a simple drill Mark gave me using some string so that I can start winning back

some of those bottles of red I’ve been losing to my so-called mates who have been clearly taking advantage of my putting affliction.

Mark and Brett’s extraordinary facility is available to any golfer, group or coach to use and can be found at Unit 6, 23 Activity Crescent Molendinar, Gold Coast.

If you are looking to install one of one of these ground-breaking Golf Training Centre booths at your golf club or driving range, at home or upgrade your current facility with Mark and Brett’s exclusive hydraulic tiltable floor, you can contact the boys on 0416 078 332 or mark@perfectstroke.org

BUY any New DR2 Model Petrol Quite TECH, AC, DC and all PTV Models and you’ll get a FREE accessory package worth $775 Contact your participating dealer for more details Purchase must be made from September to December 2017 from any dealer listed below.

BOOK YOUR TEST DRIVE NOW AT ONE OF OUR DEALERS BELOW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW ACT

Coleman’s Golf Cars Newcastle Droop & Elliott DTM Tamworth Pty Ltd Eurells Pty Ltd Mark II Automotive Merimbula Mowers & Marine Port Macquarie M/C Readford’s Motorcycle Centre TGM Steering Service & Golf Cars Canberra

Carrington Mulwala Tamworth Narrandera Tocumwal Merimbula Port Macquarie Dubbo Milperra Mitchell

0412 497 230 (03) 5744 3983 (02) 6762 2606 (02) 6959 2949 (03) 5874 3440 (02) 6495 4495 (02) 6583 6060 (02) 6882 2888 (02) 9774 4994 (02) 6255 7810

QLD Bay City Moto

Hervey Bay

(07) 4194 5688

QLD Bundaberg Marineland

Bundaberg

(07) 4130 0500

QLD Gold Coast Waverunners & Golf Cars Biggera Waters (07) 5529 1855 QLD Moto Sport Yamaha

Aitkenvale

(07) 4779 0165

East Brisbane

1300 921 160

North Lakes

(07) 3852 4474

QLD Yamaha Motor Platinum Dealer

Yamaha Golf Cars Brisbane

QLD Northstar Yamaha

VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC VIC TAS SA SA WA NT

Craigs Onsites (Aust) Pty Ltd Geelong & District Golf Golf City Driving Range Rochester Motorcycles Yamaha Carts Albury Wodonga Yamaha Golf Cars of Melbourne Auto Tech West Metropolitan Machinery PL Fleurieu Golf Carts Yamaha Golf Cars WA Mower World Darwin

www.yamaha-motor.com.au

Ripplebrook Marcus Hill Ballarat Rochester Wodonga Braeside Prospect Vale Cavan Victor Harbor Osborne Park Berrimah

0409 826 640 0408 521 919 (03) 5334 2346 (03) 5484 1745 0408 590 439 (03) 9587 5480 (03) 6344 6828 (08) 8349 5499 0438 800 563 (08) 9443 1117 (08) 8947 1227

PEOPLE

60

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Glenn breaks blind golf record with Len Smyth as his caddie after scoring 69 points.

Gary McInnes

www.blindgolf.com.au

President of Blind Golf Australia, Mr Doug Sloan, once again thanked Club Golf Operations Manager, Andrew Halliday for allowing the event to be played at Virginia GC and all the support that was given to the development of blind golf in Queensland.

Ms Julie Newton from Vision Australia assisted in the trophy presentations. Doug thanked the Tournament Director, Peter North, and local Rules Official Trevor Prior from Golf Queensland, and other local caddies, especially those from the Aspley Rotary Club.

B

lind Golf Australia held the 2nd Queensland Blind Golf Open Championship at the Virginia Golf Club at Banyo on 17-18 July. Fourteen players, including new recruit Raeann Shields from the Brisbane GC, took part.

Having taken out the B1 title in 2016, Brisbane local Glenn Niciejewski went one better this year, taking out the 2017 Championship with a record-breaking score in blind golf of 88 stableford points over the two rounds.

The next major blind golf events will be the West Australian Open to be played at the Collier Park Golf Club on 7-8 September, followed by the New South Wales Open to be played at the Bankstown Golf Club on 5-6 October, and the Australian Open to be played at the Royal Sydney Golf Club on Sunday 8 and Monday 9 October.

Glenn a “B1” category golfer (totally blind) playing off a handicap of 54, with Mark Tookey as his caddie, opened on Day 1 with 42 stableford points to take a two-point lead into Day 2. He had a relatively scratchy start to his round on Day 2 scoring only 2 points in the first four holes, however, over the next 14 holes he scored 44 points. He shot 49 off the stick for the back-9 which was 14 under his handicap, scoring a massive 46 points for the round. Not bad for a young guy who is totally blind. This was Glenn’s first major title victory.

Sponsorship opportunities are available to anyone wishing to offer charitable support to the blind golf community.

Also, blind golf is open to people of all ages and is a perfect avenue for those club golfers who are experiencing some sight loss to stay involved in our great game. Blind golf has three sight categories; B1, B2 and B3 which relate to how much sight a player has. B1 players are totally blind.

Runner-up was new-comer Raeann Shields from QLD (B2 – 34 handicap) with her friend Julie Anning as her caddie, scoring 74 points over the two rounds. Raeann certainly has the game to become a leading player in the blind golf world.

Victorian David Blyth (handicap 54),with Gary McInnes as caddie, won the B1 title with 50 points. Gary Sargent (NSW – handicap 35) with his wife Eileen as caddie won the B2 title with 59 points, and the B3 title was won

by Michael Maurice from QLD (handicap 36)

Glenn Niciejewski (R), with caddy Mark Tookey, winner of the 2017 Queensland Bind Golf Open Championship.

Buy now, pay later!

Anyone wishing to learn more about these sponsorship opportunities, or either playing blind golf or caddying for a blind golfer may contact Gary McInnes on 0417 055 731.

They may also go to the Blind Golf Australia website www.blindgolf.com.au or see www.internationalblindgolf.com

At Precision Golf we are celebrating the launch of our Instore finance option.

Our finance option offers to buy now, pay later option to make sure you get the correct set of clubs custom fitted for you with the flexibility to pay them off.

We are celebrating with a chance to WIn the ultimate package giveaway to the

US MaSTerS 2018 vaLUed Over $25,000

Precision Golf is giving away the chance to win a trip of a life time to the 2018 US Masters, hosted by Ray Hawkins and Brad McIntosh.

To enter into the draw for a chance to win this fantastic prize either book in for a club fit or lesson and spend over $2000 on lesson packages or golf clubs in a single transaction.

The US Masters Trip Includes: • 8 Nights’ accommodation in a luxury private house • 4 days at the US Masters including: Monday Practice Round Wednesday Practice Round & Par 3 Contest Friday Tournament Sunday Final Round & Green Jacket presentation • 2 Rounds of golf including: The River Golf Club, West Lake Country Club • Shared motorised carts at all rounds • 2 Golf Clinics with PGA Professionals Ray Hawkins & Brad McIntosh • Group airport / Masters / golf transfers • Daily Breakfast

• • • •

Golf competition Golf tips & instruction Welcome gift Fully escorted by PGA Professionals Ray Hawkins & Brad McIntosh Exclusions airfares

To book a club fit or make a purchase for lesson packages call the store on (02) 9417 7704.

Go to our website www.precisiongolf.com.au to look at the full itinerary for the trip or drop into 354 Eastern Valley Way, Chatswood

Mention this ad & receive

10% OFF Lesson Packages

GOLF CART BATTERIES POWER FROM SUN UP TO SUN DOWN.. ROUND AFTER ROUND!

+ + + +

XC2™ Formulation Diamond Plate Technology® Rugged Construction SpeedCap® Venting Positive Locking System

STOCKIST ENQUIRIES WELCOME

XC2™ FORMULATION Available from R & J Batteries stores and distributors

/ www.rjbatt.com.au / 1300 769 282

The industry’s most efficient uniform layers of tetrabasic sulfate crystals (battery cellplate paste) enable U.S. Battery products to achieve the highest initial capacity and highest rated capacity on the market.

62

RULES

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

What’s The Rule?

Relief from gardens Frank Gal

Director of Rules

I

t may surprise some readers to learn that gardens are not mentioned in the rules book. Free relief from cultivated areas is only available if allowed by Local Rule. In fact, at many courses the Local Rules emphasise that all (or some) gardens are integral parts of the course from which the ball must be played as it lies or declared unplayable.

If a Committee wishes to provide free relief from gardens on the course, it must mark the area as ‘ground under repair’ or clearly define the area as ground under repair in the Local Rules. A general statement such as “all gardens on the course are to be treated as GUR” can be misleading if the course has planted areas which are not clearly identifiable as gardens. For example, a woodchipped or mulched area containing native grasses may be seen as a garden by some, so the status of such areas should be clearly defined in the Local Rules if gardens are GUR. Players who frequently play at different courses will be aware that the Local Rules giving relief from gardens can vary greatly from course to course. Before taking relief from a cultivated area, players should always carefully read the Local Rules to see if they are entitled to free relief from these areas.

Some typical Local Rules granting free relief from gardens include: Ground Under Repair • All formally edged garden beds.

• All gardens adjacent to teeing grounds.

• Gardens defined by white stakes with green tops.

• Ornamental garden beds surrounded by a border.

• The gardens adjoining the 1st tee, 10th tee and the practice putting green.

the course. A typical Local Rule requiring a player to take relief would be:

Often a note along the following lines is added for clarification:

Note: All other planted areas are an integral part of the course from which the ball must be played as it lies or declared unplayable (Rule 28).

Note: Wood-chipped areas are integral parts of the course unless marked as GUR (individual woodchips are loose impediments).

In many cases the Committee may wish to prohibit play from some or all gardens on

Ground Under Repair – Play Prohibited Those garden beds identified by white stakes.

At some courses, the Committee may not wish to give relief from any gardens. In these circumstances, the Committee simply needs to do nothing at all. If gardens are

not mentioned in the Local Rules, relief is not available. However, because most clubs allow relief from gardens, a Committee denying relief will often mention that fact in their Local Rules so that visiting players do not inadvertently breach the Rules by taking relief incorrectly.

In summary, the two main points to consider when a “garden” interferes with your stance or swing are: • Do the club’s Local Rules provide free relief from the area?

• Is relief compulsory?

Chasing the Sun Golf Tournament Commencing Ceduna 7 April 2018 Nullarbor Links, ‘World’s Longest Golf Course’, is unique. This 18-hole par 72 golf course spans 1,365 kilometres with one hole in each participating town or roadhouse along the Eyre Highway from Ceduna in South Australia to Kalgoorlie in Western Australia.

Each hole includes a synthetic green, tee and somewhat rugged outback-style natural terrain fairway. The course provides visitors with a quintessential Australian golfing experience that is unmatched anywhere else in the world.

“Chasing the Sun” Golf Tournament has established itself as a brilliant Australian golfing experience, from the very first sip of champagne on Saturday morning at Ceduna, through to toasting the setting Sun in Kalgoorlie 7 days later.

This is memorable journey, taking you on a drive to Australia’s famous oyster beds in Ceduna, then to the wheat and sheep farming districts of Penong, Nundroo and the beautiful waters of Fowlers Bay. You venture passed the whales and the beautiful coastline at Nullarbor to arrive at the beaches of Eucla, to meet the Pirate and claim your treasure. Clutching your gold you move on to the remains of Skylab at Balladonia and the working sheep station at Fraser Range.

The Indigenous art and dance of the Ngadju people in Norseman will features strongly in your memories of the festival. The next morning you journey on to nickel mining and land sailing at Kambalda and then finally to Australia’s gold capital, Kalgoorlie.

For more information and to view the full itinerary visit www.nullarborlinks.com

The Eyre Highway Operators Association is proudly supported by:

H O T E L



M O T E L

Ian Baker-Finch and the team at Golf Cars International would like to thank Indooroopilly Golf Club for renewing their partnership with Club Car. And we look forward to continuing our long and very rewarding relationship with Indooroopilly Golf Club being part of the Club Car family.

GOLF CARS INTERNATIONAL P/L 20 Kingston Drive, Helensvale QLD 4212 Phone: (07) 55 299 499 | Fax: (07) 55 299 544

www.golfcarsinternational.com.au

64

Seniors

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Australia top NZ in dramatic fashion SENIOR Amateur WRAP With Denis Dale ed@insidegolf.com.au

A

ustralia has won the Sanctuary Cove Trophy by 12.5 matches to 11.5 after a dramatic finish to the tournament.

FOURSOMES The tournament began with six foursomes matches and the Australian team came out firing. A win and an early lead was all important.

First off were the pairing of Peter Hannah and Ian Frost and they played some great golf and set the tone for the day in winning 2 & 1 over the Kiwi pair of Andrew McKechnie and Reg Fleet.

The Kiwi pair of Frank Borren and Arthur Parkin levelled the scores, beating Australia’s John Banting and John Davey 2 & 1.

Australia’s Greg Rhodes and fellow Victorian and current Australian Senior Champion Kym Olsen didn’t let Australia down, cruising to an easy 6&5 win against Michael Barltrop and John Batley - two of New Zealand’s finest.

Australian veteran and most experienced senior golfer Stefan Albinski was paired with former Eisenhower Cup player Lester Peterson but the Kiwi team of Stuart Nicholls and John Sanders proved a little strong.

When they won 2 & 1 the scores were locked at 2 matches all.

The Aussies needed a win and Gordon Claney and Steve Toyne gave it to them.

These two had faced each other in the final of the Australian match play a few weeks earlier but now were team mates. They faced strong opposition from experienced Kiwis Hugh Harrison and Rodney Barltropm but the final result was a win to the Aussie team 2 & 1.

The final match saw newcomers Geoff Cranfield and Ken Brewer from New South Wales together. They were up against the Kiwi pair of Murray Martin and Bruce Middlemiss. In a very impressive display of Foursomes golf they ran away with the match and when they had won 6&5 the Australian team had won the morning foursomes by 4 matches to 2.

FOURBALL The Australians decided to vary the teams for the afternoon fourball matches and every pairing was different. This was a new approach for the Aussies who knew that the Kiwis would be keen to overcome the early lead the Australian team had established.

Stefan Albinski and John Davey had both tasted defeat in the morning but turned the tables on the New Zealand team of Andrew McKechnie and Arthur Parkin for a 3&2 win.

John Banting and Lester Peterson had also lost their opening match but this new pairing really clicked and they ran away from Bruce Middlemiss and Hugh Harrison winning 6&5.

Peterson was really on fire recording five birdies in the thirteen holes played.

Australia now had a lead but the Kiwis’ determination was evident when their team of Reg Fleet and John Batley defeated the Australian team of Steve Toyne and Peter Hannah 3&2.

They followed with another win when their pairing of Michael Barltrop and Stuart Nicholls proved just a little too strong for a courageous Aussie pairing of Kym Olsen and Geoff Cranfield. A 2-up victory for the Kiwis saw the scores locked at 2 all. The Australians need a win.

Greg Rhodes and Ken Brewer were next for the Australian and they continued on their winning way with a nice 3&2 victory over the Kiwi pairing of Rodney Barltrop and John Sanders.

SINGLE-LENGTH FAIRWAY WOODS Is this you?

The victorious Australian team.

The Australians had the needed point and it looked like three-all as Ian Frost and Gordon Claney came to the final hole trailing Frank Borren and Murray Martin by one. The eighteenth at Sanctuary Cove is one of the best finishing holes in Australian golf and when Ian Frost was the only player to make his par the match was squared.

The Aussies had opened a commanding lead winning the day by 7.5 to 4.5. No team had overcome a 3 match margin on the final day in the event’s ten year history. But the New Zealanders are known for their never say die attitude.

SINGLES The weather was another beautiful day and both teams looked nervous as they gathered around the first tee. New Zealand continued the pattern by winning the toss for the third time and had the honour.

First off was Peter Hannah and the legend of New Zealand golf Rodney Barltrop.

Barltrop has won multiple New Zealand Senior Championships and multiple Australian Senior Championships in a wonderful career. He used all his experience birdieing the seventeenth to reach the lead and winning on the final hole.

John Banting & Lester Peterson.

Geoff Cranfield was next for the Australians and he faced another experienced New Zealander in Arthur Parkin. In a see-sawing battle that again went to the final hole Parkin was the winner 2-up. Just the start the Kiwis needed.

The third match saw newcomers Ken Brewer for Australia and Stuart Nicholls for New Zealand. Both players were undefeated and a real battle was expected. And they delivered. A quality match with both players playing some great golf again would go the eighteenth. Stu Nicholls maintained his advantage to win 1-up.

The Kiwis had wiped out their three-match deficit in the opening three matches. The impossible was now the possible.

3 Wood, 5 Wood, 7 Wood Graphite Shafts S, R, A and L flex

$150 each

• Not comfortable with your fairway woods?

• Wish they could be easier to play with?

• Seeking more consistency?

• Looking for a simpler, more predictable way to play the game?

MILFORD SINGLE LENGTH FAIRWAY WOODS COULD BE THE SOLUTION Our Fairway Woods were specifically developed to simplify the game and make it more enjoyable for golfers of all abilities. They, of course, complement the already popular Milford SL-7 single-length irons.

The set consists of 3 Wood, 5 Wood and 7 Wood, all the same length ; 42 inches standard for men and 41 inches for women. Lie-angle and swing-weigh are also identical across the set.

*Conditions Apply. This offer valid Sunday to Thursday Only (Friday & Saturday $112.50).

Per person twin share - executive room. Note: A full buffet breakfast can be organised for group bookings of 20 or more.

Benefits of Milford Single-Length Fairway Woods Simplicity Comfort Consistency Confidence Success Enjoyment

-

the three woods are equal in length and weight same stance, set-up ball position and swing for all three single swing plane, same feel and tempo more consistent ball striking more accurate, predictable shots greater success leads to more enjoyment

$110

*

The R&A has ruled that these clubs conform to the rules of golf

* Presently only available in right hand.

IT’S TIME TO START ENJOYING YOUR GOLF. Contact Fred Stewart on 0412563977, at fred@milfordgolf.com.au or visit Milford Golf on Facebook

SIMPLE SYSTEM THAT WORKS

September 2017

65

www.insidegolf.com.au

Seniors

Both played the par-five seventeenth hole solidly but Batley faced a four-footer to halve the hole. He missed. Australia was one hole up playing the final hole.

Both players hit wonderful drives on the demanding finishing hole. Batley played first and hit the green but was looking at a long putt.

Kym Olsen & Greg Rhodes.

Ken Brewer & Geoff Cranfield.

Match four and Australia’s John Banting was facing the tough New Zealander Frank Borren. It looked good for Australia when we were 3-up with just 4 holes remaining. But Kiwis don’t give up and in an amazing match Borren won the final four holes and claimed victory at the last hole.

The two teams were still in a real battle.

Australia had a one-match lead with just the four top matches remaining.

This lead soon disappeared when Reg Fleet from New Zealand recorded a 2&1 victory over Steve Toyne. In a tough battle Toyne was behind all day and although he rallied late in the match Fleet was a little too strong. All square!

Australia had lost 4 matches at the last hole and now trailed New Zealand. We needed a win to set us on the right course and we needed it soon.

Gordon Claney and Michael Barltrop were locked in another close battle. The pair had played each other in 2016 when Barltrop was the winner and he did the same again this year. He played some beautiful recovery shots to record victory on the seventeenth.

New Zealand now had the lead by one with two matches still underway.

Stefan Albinski was up against popular Kiwi Hugh Harrison. After a tight battle Albinski was one-up as they headed down the final hole. Albinski managed to hang on and his win gave Australia our first point. The scores were back to level.

News came through that John Davey was playing some great golf and he eventually defeated Bruce Middlemiss 5&4. A great win.

With this much-needed point, Australia was again in front by one match.

The top match saw Greg Rhodes against Andrew McKechnie. It was very tight until Rhodes edged ahead on the twelfth hole.

Rhodes then played wonderful golf to defeat McKechnie 4&3. Rhodes had gone through the series undefeated and Australia’s number one senior golfer again did us proud.

Lester Peterson was up against Kiwi star Murray Martin and after trailing by a hole or two all day Peterson eventually lost 2&1.

Square again!

One match remaining and the scores were tied. Australia 11.5 and New Zealand 11.5.

Kym Olsen for Australia and John Batley for New Zealand. Olsen was the current Australian Senior Champion. Batley had won the New Zealand Senior Championship in 2016. They stood on the seventeenth tee all square.

Ian Frost was matched with the wily veteran John Sanders who has the best record of any New Zealander to play in the Sanctuary Cove Cup. Frost had recorded a win and a half and was keen to go through the series undefeated. He did just that in a high-quality match that ended on the seventeenth hole.

YOUR BLUE MOUNTAINS PARMAKER OUTLET For Parmaker after-sales repairs, service & spares in the Blue Mountains Area (Blacktown to Lithgow & beyond) contact Mike Budden. We conduct warranty repairs on all models and have most walker and ride-on models available for demo.

Collection & delivery is available.

Sales • Repairs • Service • Spares Phone & Fax: 02 4751 8226 Email: wesden@dodo.com.au www.bluemountainsgolfbuggies.com

03 9580 7166

parmaker.com

spirit

$

100 REBATE*

100

%

UP TO

5YR

WARRANTY

Gordon Claney, Denis Dale & Ian Frost

A wonderful tournament that produced exciting golf. The Sanctuary Cove Club had once again presented their course in outstanding condition and been wonderful hosts.

This event is the pinnacle of senior golf in both countries and once again it had produced an exciting finish. The last three matches had seen score lines of 13-11, 13-11 and 12.5-11.5.

The next match is February 2018 in Christchurch, New Zealand.

INDIVIDUALS AUSTRALIA Peter Hannah Geoff Cranfield Ken Brewer John Banting Stefan Albinski Ian Frost John Davey Lester Peterson Kym Olsen Steve Toyne Gordon Claney Greg Rhodes

5

1up 3&1 5&4 1up

4&3

NEW ZEALAND Rodney Barltrop Arthur Parkin Stuart Nicholls Frank Borren Hugh Harrison John Sanders Bruce Middlemiss Murray Martin John Batley Reg Fleet Michael Barltrop Andrew McKechnie

7 1up 2up 1 up 1up

2&1 2&1 2&1

COMING SENIOR AMATEUR EVENTS Aug 31 – Sep 1 * Grange Kooyonga Senior Open Aug 31 – Sep 1 Bendigo Seniors September 4-6 * South Australian Senior Championship – Tanunda Pines September 10 Shelly Beach Seniors (NSW) September 11-13 * Victorian Senior Amateur – Bairnsdale/Lakes Entrance September 11 Magenta Shores Seniors (NSW) Keperra Seniors (QLD) September 11 Lang Lang Seniors (VIC) September 11 September 21 Port Kembla Seniors (NSW) Maroochy River Seniors (QLD) September 22 September 25-26 Northern Seniors (VIC) Wyong Seniors (NSW) September 25 September 29 Liverpool Seniors (NSW) Brookwater Seniors (QLD) October 3 Monash Seniors (NSW) October 5 October 9 Camden Seniors (NSW) October 10-12 * Australian Senior Amateur Championship – Royal Hobart Windsor Seniors (NSW) October 16 Warwick Seniors (QLD) October 17 October 18-20 Asia-Pacific Senior Championship – Royal Adelaide October 18 Toowoomba City Seniors (QLD) October 19 Middle Ridge Seniors (QLD) Melbourne Senior Classic (VIC) October 30-31 * Part of the Australian Senior Ranking System

TOO BUSY PLAYING GOLF TO WORRY ABOUT SUNSCREEN?

explorer

scout

Olsen then played the shot of the tournament. With the gusty wind he backed away until he was set before hitting an iron that missed the hole by centimetres. Batley made par but when Olsen putted safely the match was his. And Australia’s.

AUSTRALIAN MADE

28 DAY

MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

*Rebate refers to the trade-in of an old electric golf buggy for $100 discount.

PROTECT YOUR ARmS FROm ThE SUN WIThOUT ThE hASSLE OF SUNSCREEN OR hOT LONG SLEEvES Fully tested and certified to be 50+ UV, One size fits all.

More and more golf pro’s are wearing them now and Anne Rollo from Anne Rollo Golf schools has been wearing them for over 2 years and loves them...

Wantima Country Club ‘The Golf Club of choice on Brisbane’s Northside’ Ideally located 30 mins from CBD • 18 Hole Championship Course • Wedding & Function Venue • Corporate Golf & Conference Centre • Bistro and Gaming Facilities • Family Friendly Members Lounge • Social Clubs Welcome • Discount membership packages available Contact any of our friendly staff Phone: (07) 3264 1633 Email: admin@wantimacountryclub.com.au Web: www.wantimacountryclub.com.au 530 South Pine Road, Brendale, QLD 4500

INSIDE GOLF SPECIAL 18 holes with shared use of motorised cart and burger

$39.50 pp (usually $63) Available Mon-Fri only. Subject to availability. Offer ends 30 September, 2017.

Subject to conditions. Burger must be consumed in the clubhouse on the day of play between 11.30am and 2.30pm.

”I recommend them to all my students, I don’t have to wear sunscreen on my arms anymore and they are surprisingly cool on the skin, I love them” Go to www.icerays.com.au to order and have yours to wear in a few days.

Or call us on 1300 025 939 or email enquiries@icerays.com.au to order yours now.

Seniors

66

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Claney takes out GC Seniors championship

2017 Queensland Senior Amateur Championship Reigning Australian Senior Amateur champion Kym Olsen added the 2017 Queensland title to his resume with a wireto-wire victory at Carbrook.

Olsen, a 56-year-old from The National GC in Victoria, took a nine-shot lead into the final round which he retained until the end.

David Newbery

His was the only player to finish with a sub-par aggregate after rounds of 69-68-74 on the Par-71 Carbrook layout.

K

He defeated Ian Frost (Rich River) who also closed with a 74 while Peter Dagan (Redcliffe) was a further three strokes back in third place.

david@insidegolf.com.au

INGSTON Heath Golf Club’s Gordon Claney made the trip to the Gold Coast worthwhile by taking out the national ranking 54-hole Gold Coast Seniors Championship.

“I spent the first nine holes trying to figure out how to blow a nine-shot lead,’’ said Olsen, reflecting on his final round.

“My putting was very ordinary … I must have used up all my currency on the greens in the two opening rounds.

Claney carded a three-round total of 224 at Royal Pines, the Glades and Links Hope Island to finish three strokes clear of Mona Vale Golf Club’s Stefan Albinski.

“I finally breathed a sigh of relief on the 14 or 15th hole when I realised I couldn’t really lose it from there.’’

Robbie Bell from Ashburton Golf Club in New Zealand finished third on 230.

The Gold Coast District Golf Associationrun event attracted a strong field of leading golfers from Queensland, interstate and overseas.

Gold Coast Senior Championship gross winner Gordon Claney (left) receives the spoils of victory from GCDGA president Neil Steinhardt.

“Scoring was tough on these layouts and windy conditions on the tricky Royal Pines greens did make scoring for some difficult as they fought it out for great trophies, and of course, national ranking points,” GCDGA president Neil Steinhardt said.

Colin Hallam (Redcliffe) 234. Gross winner (70+) Neale Pitches (Paraparaumu NZ), runner-up R. Barltrop (Royal Wellington NZ).

Multiple trophies were awarded on a daily basis for best nett scores in each of the age divisions with the best daily gross scores coming from Robbie Bell (74) at Royal Pines, Gordon Claney (70) at the Glades and Michael Peeck (Dalby) and Phil Towle (Coolangatta/Tweed) (74) at Links Hope Island.

“This event is proving to be a major drawcard attracting prominent senior golfers from Australia and Oceania,” Steinhardt said.

The 54-hole gross winners and runnersup in their age divisions are as follows: gross winner (55-59) Mario Lachuisa (Nudgee) 232, gross r/up Ian Frost (Bendigo) 233.

Gross winner (60-64) Gordon Claney (Kingston Heath) 224, runner-up Robbie Bell (Ashburton NZ) 230. Gross winner (65-69) Stefan Albinski (Mona Vale) 227, runner-up

Trophies were also awarded to the 54-hole nett winners in each of the age divisions.

GCDGA secretary Barry Neill said he expected the tournament to grow even further next year.

Leading Scores 224 CLANEY Gordon – Kingston Heath 75-70-79 227 ALBINSKI Stefan – Mona Vale 77-72-78 230 BELL Robbie – Ashburton NZ 74-76-80 231 PEECK Michaek – Dalby 78-79-74 232 LACHIUSA Mario – Nudgee 77-70-76 233 FROST Ian – Rich River 84-74-75 234 COLEFAX Warren – Murwillumbah 79-80-75 BARLTROP Michael – Royal Auckland 81-76-77 HALLAM Col – Recliffe 82-76-76

Olsen said the lightning-fast greens at Carbrook were the slickest he had encountered for a long while.

“The course was a good test of golf and a credit to the greens staff, management and members who must have worked so hard to recover from the damage inflicted earlier in the year,’’ he said.

Carbrook sustained severe damage in the aftermath of Cyclone Debbie in early April and it is remarkable the club was able to host a significant tournament only four months later.

Olsen plans to defend his Australian Seniors title at Royal Hobart in October after he takes a lengthy break from the game to address on-going issues with mental health.

“I’ve battled a mental health issue for the past 18 months and need to take time off to continue with treatment,’’ he said.

“I have depression and I have to fight that every day. Golf is not a problem, it is the anxiety and a multitude of issues that go with that …

“I’ve had days where I’ve had six or sevenunder and cannot wait to get off the golf course and get away.’’

Olsen said he was appreciative and grateful to his fellow players for the understanding of his on-going battle.

“Everyone is very understanding of the situation; they are great people everywhere I have played.

“Hopefully I can raise awareness of mental health issues and prompt people to seek help and support.’’

Olsen, who travelled extensively in his vocation as a construction project manager, contested the US and Canadian amateurs earlier in his career.

He also had a successful stint as a professional after turning 50 years of age, winning 14 events on the Australasian PGA Legends Tour during his debut season.

After experiencing the world of professional golf, Olsen applied for reinstatement as an amateur and was sidelined from the game for two years.

“Playing as a professional was never about money for me. It was about testing and challenging myself,’’ he said.

Olsen has also struggled with physical problems in recent years, including surgery for Polyarticular Arthritis, a condition which causes inflammation of multiple joints.

He has an invitation to contest the Canadian Seniors Amateur Championship in September but is uncertain if he will make the trip.

Queensland Senior Men’s Championship age division winners (gross) were as follows: 55-59 years, Kym Olsen (The National) 211 60-64 years, Peter Dagan (Redcliffe) 223 65-69 years, Philip Towle (Coolangatta – Tweed) 232 70 + years, John Zygis (Windaroo Lakes) 247 The Queensland Senior Men’s Championship is supported by PresCare which continues to evolve as a leading provider of quality aged-care facilities and in-home community care throughout Queensland. PresCare recognises the importance of people remaining independent no matter how old they are.

Gailes Golf Club Brisbane, Australia

with a shared motorised cart and a beer each after the game Your chance to play Gailes Golf Club, an Australian Open Golf Course: 18 holes for two in a shared motorised cart.

Normally $124

69

$

Terms & Conditions: • Each coupon is for 2 people, for an 18-hole social round of golf with shared motorised cart & a beer each after the game at Gailes Golf Club. • Not for play in club competitions. • Bookings essential & subject to availability. Ph: (07) 3271 2333 (please mention the coupon when you book) • Booking times: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Fridays, after 12.30pm subject to availability. • Coupon must be presented to Proshop on the day you arrive to play • Dress Code Applies: Neat golf attire. • Valid to 31/12/17 • 24 hours’ notice for cancellations.

Contact GAILES GOLF CLUB on (07) 3271 1045 or email: office@gailesgolf.com.au Gailes Golf Club Inc. 299 Wilruna Street, Wacol, QLD 4076

www.golfskatecaddy.com.au 1300 55 69 79

Barnwell Park GC have just taken delivery of their new fleet of GSC! Call the Pro shop (02) 9713 9019

68

JUNIORS

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Juniors set for desert gold rush J

uniors in WA will strike gold again this year at the 2017 SITEWORKS LABOUR HIRE - Goldfields Junior Desert Open.

The Goldfields Golf Club of KalgoorlieBoulder will be staging the event for the sixth time on the 26th & 27th of September.

The SITEWORKS LABOUR HIRE -GJDO is a WA state junior ranking event over 36 holes of stroke. The club continues to receive great support from GolfWA, who have confirmed the attendance of the State Development Squad players, to ensure a high quality field for what is continuing to be one of WA’s largest junior golf tournaments.

With sponsorship at capacity, the tournament continues to enjoy great support both locally and state-wide, which enables a prize pool of six divisions with 24 prizes.

The Gross Champion Girl and Boy will each receive a Kalgoorlie Gold Nugget. In addition, each divisional gross winner will also receive a smaller nugget.

CASTLECOVE, probably Sydney’s smallest club, had to rely on its oldest and youngest members to pull off a unique 6-0 win against Campbelltown in round two of the prized NSW Golf’s Warren and Gibson trophies series.

The Cove’s revered 87-year-old Life Member John Potts combined brilliantly with 19-year-old Tom Diggins to complete a very rare club clean-sweep of the six two-ball teams matches with a last-hole one-up win in their Gibson Trophy game.

The new course superintendent has the Kalgoorlie Golf Course in great shape and as the warmer weather hits, the course will continue to improve. The event has exclusive access to the course for the two days allowing junior golfers an opportunity to play on the Graham Marsh-designed layout, which offers a high standard of playing surface, set in the unique setting of natural bushland and rich red desert sands.

New in 2017 is the Sundowner BBQ for all players and parents after round one. This will be a relaxing time to enjoy the evening, meet new people and create lasting friendships.

Oldest and youngest star in clean sweep

A chuffed Castlecove Warren-Gibson captain, Jack Snowsill, said all of his teams’ players did well as most were off much longer handicaps than Campbelltown.

Potts and Diggins had a best-ball score of just a few shots over par when they won.

The MyGolf section of the competition is again a MyGolf Tour event, with players awarded points to the season-long Order of Merit. The MyGolf event will be run in conjunction with the SITEWORKS LABOUR HIRE -GJDO each day to allow younger players and siblings to participate. This event has a total of 18 prizes over the two days of competition, and there is a division for all skill levels.

Each entrant will receive an event backpack containing a number of gifts. The club is intent on encouraging players to come and

Golf now

49.50

$

7 days, everyday

*

play with every participant taking something home. To complement the formal prizes, there will be 28 novelty prizes over the two days.

The Goldfields Golf Club is looking forward to a successful event again in 2017 and for years to come. For further information contact Mark Baroni, Junior Golf Coordinator on 0407 884 784 markbaroni@westnet.com.au or visit and “Like” the tournament’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com\GoldfieldsJuniorDesertOpen

The other winning Gibson Trophy team pairs were: Bob Adams with Bill Trestrail and Chris Smith with Nick Rock. The Warren team winners were John Rumpler and Ian Manton-Hall, Gareth Parker and Peter Scott and Greg Dare and Bill Colhoun.

The one-sided double win – the first in recent club history -- dramatically reversed a 6-0 loss by Castlecove to Beverley Park in round one. However the best-performed pair in round one again were Potts and Diggins, who lost on the last hole.

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

69

JUNIORS

McLeod junior selected for Hills camp Y

WA’S NEW APPROACH TO GOLF MEMBERSHIP IS HERE...

OUNG Chase Oberle from McLeod Country Golf Club in Brisbane has been selected as the Brisbane District Golf Association’s representative at the 2017 Hills Junior Golf Camp.

BDGA junior development coordinator Peter Johnstone said the Hills Golf Academy generously provided a complimentary place on its annual four-day golf camp for a deserving junior golfer.

“The BDGA sought interest from clubs across Brisbane and we were very impressed by the high calibre of all nominations,” he said.

The BDGA sought nominations from juniors who not only had excelled in their golfing development but who had also demonstrated the highest standards of behaviour and commitment to their local club.

» Credit based Membership » Three categories to choose from

“Chase was selected as McLeod’s representative given his overall commitment to his golf and the club,” said McLeod junior co-ordinator Noel McCabe.

“Chase practises at least three times per week at the range and plays at least one 18-hole competition on a weekly basis.

“He also demonstrates the highest standard of behaviour and sportsmanship while playing golf and is welcomed and accepted by his playing partners both young and old.”

Chase is already a member of the McLeod Division 3 pennant team and

» Flexible to suit your needs McLeod club captain Peter Glassop congratulates Chase Oberle.

last season was undefeated in his pennant matches and awarded the McLeod Junior Pennant Player of the Year.

“Their willingness to provide a free place to deserving juniors demonstrates a commitment to developing junior golf in our region.”

“As well as congratulating Chase, the BDGA would also like to express our gratitude towards the Hills Golf Academy for providing this opportunity,” Johnstone said.

The Hills Golf Camp is held during the September school holidays.

Further details can be obtained by contacting the academy on (07) 5547 9655.

» No joining fee (limited time only)

New info-sharing forum for junior golf JUNIOR golf programs have embraced a new forum for information sharing across the Brisbane region.

Brisbane District Golf Association junior development co-ordinator Peter Johnstone told Inside Golf the association had established a junior golf development committee.

“It has been a grass-roots initiative,” he said.

“The purpose of the group is to facilitate information sharing between junior programs and to enable collaboration between clubs on projects benefitting junior golf.

“As a former junior committee president at Pacific Golf Club it always struck me that there was much that clubs could learn from each other but no suitable forum to enable that learning.

“Given the opportunity, clubs have jumped at the chance to gain insight into best practice junior strategies being employed by other programs.”

The group will also consider a more co-ordinated approach to junior events in 2018 along with a series of junior interclub challenges.

Fourteen clubs from around Brisbane have so far held two quarterly meetings.

“There has been a real cross section of clubs represented at these meetings from fledging junior programs to clubs with 100-plus financial junior members,” Johnstone said.

A number of clubs have been represented by junior co-ordinators while others by PGA members.

Golf Queensland, the Brisbane District Ladies Golf Association and the Brisbane District Golf Association also attended the meetings.

Topics discussed to date have included improved communication channels between junior programs and peak bodies, sources of funding for junior programs and strategies for attracting and retaining new juniors.

“Interestingly, however, everyone has had something to contribute to the discussion.

“Even the smallest programs have been implementing some really interesting strategies to advance junior golf.”

The group also plans to work closely with Golf Queensland in the coming year to develop an action plan aimed at strategically developing junior golf in the Brisbane region.

Contact the Club Office for more information on this innovative membership.

Phone (08) 9297 3000 or Email memberships@vines.com.au

INSTRUCTION

70

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Length really is everything A perfect example of this physical advantage is Fred Couples who was blasting the ball at Royal Porthcawl like the young guys. With 6 of the par-4s over 450 metres he was always in the ‘scoring zone’ from 70 metres out which reflected in his scores as he finished 3rd.

With Terry Price

www.terrypricegolfschools.com.au

This year’s senior British Open saw only two players shoot under par, Langer (-4) and Pavin (-1), in what were horrific playing conditions during the first two days. Anyone who was watching on TV would have seen the howling gales and rain that destroyed many of us on the course with the exception of those previously mentioned.

E

arlier this year I was delighted to receive a personal invitation from Irwin Langer, brother of Bernhard, to play in the PON Senior Open in Germany as one of the previous champions of the tournament.

Now in its 6th year, the organisers invited all previous winners to compete. So, with the senior British Open in the same month I started my preparation to refine all parts of my game to be in optimum shape, not only for the tournaments but also to cope with the flight to Europe.

When I look at the top-3 I can identify their strengths straight away and how they adjusted quickly to inclement weather: Bernhard the unflappable master strategist, Corey an absolute wizard with his pitching and Fred’s bio-mechanics which reflects in his ball speed.

There’s nothing worse than carrying a niggling injury or a sore back then stepping off a plane after 24 hours and expect the body to perform.

Well, after landing in Germany I was feeling good and the week whizzed past…no trophy for me this year but very enjoyable to participate along with many of the game’s great players.

So, a short hop across to England to meet up with my old coach Matt Belsham with 10 days solid training before the practice round on the Tuesday at Royal Porthcawl in Wales where the British summer weather was perfect.

The banter on the driving range and locker room always adds to the atmosphere especially when chatting with legends such as Tom Watson, Fred Couples, Corey Pavin, Monty and Langer.

It was during the few hours with these guys that I was made aware of the massive amount

Next month I will give you an insight on the exciting knowledge and intelligence learned from this Tour. of new information and techniques used by USA and European players. It really opened my mind and I realised that to compete at the highest level I needed to add these adjustments to my game and also how far this additional knowledge will benefit my students on my Golf Schools at Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club on the Gold Coast.

One of the first things I noted was the distance these seniors were getting off the tee. As we all know a good long drive make our second shot to the green much easier.

Proximity to the flag from a 5-iron is a lot harder than a more controlled 8-iron…get the ball close to the hole and that’s when the birdies show on your scorecard.

World Class Golf in the Outback

So, using my trusted TrackMan device I established the longer drives by these seasoned Pros were coming from club head and ball speed. Data was showing my ball speed to be around 155mph so to achieve extra length, I needed to increase to more than 160mph.

This is not something to be achieved in a few days, more like several months due to physiological changes I must work on.

With the assistance of ex-body building champion and PGA teacher Tony Banks my focus will be on flexibility and mobility the rest of 2017. This doesn’t mean lifting heavy weights, rather utilising new stretching and positioning exercises.

In the meantime, I will seriously be working with the information gained from my Northern hemisphere experience and also incorporate these new found strategies when coaching my students at Terry Price Golf Schools. • Terry Price has been a PGA Tour player since 1986 playing in Australasia, Europe and USA. In 2012 he joined the European Seniors Tour and currently plays domestically in the Legends tournaments as well as hosting golf schools at Sanctuary Cove Golf & Country Club on the Gold Coast. www.terrypricegolfschools.com.au Tel: (07) 3535 0610

For a truly unique outback golf experience, come and play the awardwinning Graham Marsh designed championship course. Situated in the heart of the West Australian Goldfields, the Kalgoorlie Golf Course is rated amongst the best public access courses in the country.

AffiliAteD coURSe of the nUllARBoR linKS

Phone: (08) 9026 2626 email: golf@kalgoorliegolfcourse.com | www.kalgoorliegolfcourse.com

WA fAci Region A lit y of t l golf he y eAR

We’ve got a tournament for you Only 3½ hours from Sydney

ANNUAL Veterans Tournament

LADIES OPEN TOURNAMENT

2nd-5th October 2017

23rd-27th October 2017

This longstanding and popular Tournament includes three days of golf at Duntryleague and a Presentation dinner on the Wednesday night.

Accommodation is available on site in our famous 14 room mansion. Numbers are limited to 216 players. Further information is available from our Tournament Director Tournament Director Beryl Pearce 0428 622 300 or beejaber@gmail.com

The Ladies’ Open Tournament is a much anticipated Tournament on the Duntryleague calendar. The Tournament will include golfing events each day and some great social events as well. Accommodation is available on site in our famous 14 room mansion.

Further information is available from our Ladies Captain - Maria Crawford – 0427 618 164 - dandmcrawford@bigpond.com

HAHN GOLF AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP

25th-26th November 2017 (Golf NSW Vardon Event & Senior Event in conjunction) These two days of golf are not to be missed. Saturday and Sunday Championship with individual daily events in conjunction.

Test yourself against some of the best players in Australia. Please contact the Golf Shop on (02) 6362 4072 for further enquiries.

MERCEDES BENZ DUNTRYLEAGUE CLASSIC

20th-23rd January 2018 This 54 hole Individual Stableford Tournament continues to grow and is limited to 180 players to ensure comfortable play for everyone. It is open to anyone with a Golf Australia handicap, Entry fees for the Tournament are excellent value at $310 which includes golf, welcome cocktail party, Monday BBQ and Gala presentation dinner.

Tournament information & entry forms available from our website

www.duntryleague.com.au/annualtournaments.htm or contact us on 02 6362 3466 or golf@duntryleague.com.au

STEVE CONRAN JUNIOR TOURNAMENT 12th November 2017

A chance for up and coming juniors to experience one of Australia’s best regional courses.

The Tournament is a must in every junior’s golfing calendar. Parents can relax and enjoy the hospitality and beauty of Duntryleague or take the opportunity to enjoy all that Orange has to offer.

PLAY & STAY PACKAGES Duntryleague can cater for any golfing holiday with tailor made packages

Play and Stay Packages starting from

$263 pp No 89 in Australia’s Top 100 Public Access Courses

FITNESS

72

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Building hip strength and stability deep abdominals to support the spine.

Maintaining this position, with control, raise the top knee and rotate the top hip outwards.

Richard Nizielski

Externally rotate the hip to its maximum point without moving the pelvis, contracting the gluteus muscles at the top position.

www.golffitsolutions.com

C

ontinuing on from the last article, as important as hip mobility is to the golf swing just as important is the need for hip strength and stability.

With control, return to starting position and repeat the movement for the required number of repetitions. Then repeat the sequence on the other side.

Poor strength and stability will bring about limitations to both hold posture and develop power during the golf swing.

Similarly to poor mobility in the hips, poor strength and stability can be closely linked to excessive periods of sitting that doesn’t require activation of the hip muscles.

Improving strength and stability of the hip muscles can be achieved using a variety of exercises either with weights, resistance bands or your own body weight.

Here are several simple exercises, which are effective in activating the hip muscles for improved strength and stability.

Crab walk with mini resistance band The crab walk exercise targets the muscles of the hips and glutes.

Place the resistance band around your ankles or knees. Maintaining a neutral spine position, engage your lower abdominals and flex your knees.

Keeping the feet facing parallel to each other, take a large lateral step. Maintaining tension in the resistance band, lift the other foot and complete the step cycle.

Aim to maintain the hips and torso in the same position as you suspend the leg in mid air.

Hold the position for a moment (count of 5) and with control, return the foot to the floor.

If needed, reset the hips and when ready raise the other foot. Hold this position for a moment and, with control return the foot to the floor.

Repeat the movement for the required repetitions. • Happy golfing!

Crab walk

Moving in the same direction, repeat the sequence for the required repetitions, then repeat the exercise in the other direction.

Clam Shell Glute Bridge

Clam-Shell with mini resistance band The clam-shell with mini resistance band exercise targets the external hip rotator and gluteal muscles.

The addition of the resistance band provides an added challenge for strength and control of the muscles involved.

Place the resistance band around the knees and move into a side-lying position.

Flex the hips to approximately 135-degrees and the knees to 90-degrees. Support the neck on the lower arm and place the other arm on the top of hip.

With the heels touching each other, raise the mid section of the torso to straighten the spine and engage the

Intensive Golf Schools Join Richard at the Greg Norman-designed, 18 hole Championship golf course at the stunning Vintage Golf Club for a one, two or three day fun and intensive golf school. Located in the very heart of the Hunter Valley, you can look forward to: Includes * Up to 18 hours (3 days) or 6 hours (1 day) of premium golf tuition with Richard Mercer (on and off the course) * Video analysis of your swing with Dartfish and FlightScope * All schools are customised to your individual golf game * Golf at the Greg Norman-designed, 18 hole Championship course, The Vintage * Luxury accommodation packages available at either the Chateau Elan or Grand Mercure Apartments, both onsite at The Vintage Cost $435 including green fees per person (one day clinic) $670 including green fees per person (two day golf school) $905 including green fees per person (three day golf school)

Single Leg Glute Bridge Hold The single leg glute bridge hold exercise targets hip extensor and core stability muscles.

Lie on the floor on your back, flex your knees to 90-degrees and place the hands on the opposite shoulder.

The feet and knees should be in line with the hips and the lower abdominals engaged.

Keeping the hips even to the floor, push through the heel and raise the hips up using the gluteal muscles. Keeping one foot flat on the floor, raise the other foot and extend the knee.

Richard Nizielski is a Brisbane-based golf fitness expert and the Director of Golf Fit Solutions. A three-time Olympian and medallist in the sport of short track speed skating, Richard is a qualified sports and personal trainer designing individual fitness and nutrition programs for both professional and amateur golfers here in Australia and overseas. www.golffitsolutions.com

JOIN THE CONVERSATION Be part of Inside Golf’s community of vocal and loyal readers! Share your opinions on anything related to golf via our Facebook page.

WIN GREAT PRIZES

Our Facebook fans have won over $20,000 of prizes since 2016, including drivers, woods, irons, event tickets, laser rangefinders, shoes, golf holidays and more!

All golf schools have a minimum of two students. Private schools for one individual may be booked with a slight single surcharge of $150.00.

T | 0429 001 611 W | www.richardmercergolf.com E | rs.mercer@gmail.com The Vintage, Vintage Drive, Pokolbin NSW 2320

www.facebook.com/insidegolf

September 2017

73

www.insidegolf.com.au

FITNESS

Using the TPro for a quick and effective warm-up Nick Randall

1

nickr@gravityfit.com

2

3

Y

ou probably already know that a physical warm-up could help you make a better start to your round, but there are usually a few key issues that get in the way: nowhere to do it, no time to do it, you feel self-conscious, you’re not really sure what to do, etc.

More often than not, you’ll hit a few putts then it’s off to the first tee to “warm-up” with driver swings. The result of which is often dropped shots early and a bad start to the round.

This can leave you feeling a bit frustrated but still confused as what the best solution to your warm-up problem is.

This issue of an effective pre-round warm up is easily solved, using the GravityFit TPro and performing a few simple exercises. Based on the usual excuses I hear from club golfers as to why they don’t use a physical warm-up, the routine I’m going to propose needs to meet certain criteria:

Put on your TPro, stretch tall and press the handles out in front.

Hinge forward into your golf posture, step on the spot and make small circles with your arms.

With the weight on your front foot, slowly turn to the right and then the left

• Activating the key muscles around your shoulders and upper back

tempo, aim to keep pressure from spikes and paddles on the TPro equal the entire time.

• Finding your best golf posture

2 – Stomp and Pulse, hinge forward into your golf posture. Press the arms out in front then slowly walk on the spot and make small circles with your arms. Maintain pressure on spikes and paddles of the TPro and feel even balance through the feet. Perform for 45 seconds.

I recommend repeating this 2-3 times to really ingrain those posture and quality rotation feels. This quick and easy routine should help you make a better start to your round and avoid some of those early wasted shots. •

• Getting the feel for quality rotation with good balance.

Before we start, let’s get set up correctly:

Quick (under 5 minutes). Easy (no complicated movements to learn.)

Performed in golf clothes, standing up (you won’t need your gym kit and you won’t be rolling around on the floor). Doesn’t look ridiculous (you won’t attract too many odd looks and snide remarks.)

Put on your GravityFit TPro, then standing upright, stretch tall and press the handles out in front. Feel the spikes pressing gently into your upper back and your shoulder blades touching on the paddles each side.

What I’m going to help you achieve, whilst sticking to the listed criteria is as follows:

1 – Arm Press, slowly press the handles out in front and return back to the start position.

Repeat 10 times using a slow controlled

• E stablishing feel of great upright posture

Now we’re set up and ready to go, let’s take a look at the movements:

Traditional Golf Package

Championship Golf Package

2 x Nights Accommodation 1 x Round of Golf at Nelson Bay

2 x Nights Accommodation 1 x Round of Golf at Nelson Bay 1 x Round of Golf at Pacific Dunes

From: Twin Share - $230 per person Quad Share - $180 per person

3 – Split Stance Turn, starting from your golf posture, take one foot back behind you into a split stance. With the majority of weight on your front foot, slowly turn to the right and then the left. Keep the pressure on spikes and paddles equal and your hands in front of your chest. Move slowly and aim for even balance through your feet. Complete 5 reps 1_4_final_A.pdf 1 14/10/2016 4:55:42 PM each side, then switch feet and repeat.

For a detailed video demonstration, visit http://gravityfit.com/golf Nick is a Strength and Conditioning Coach, Presenter, Rehab Expert and Massage Therapist contracted by PGA Tour Players and Golf Australia to provide his services in the United States and across the globe. He is also the GravityFit Golf Guy! 1300 142 146 nickr@gravityfit.com www.gravityfit.com/golf

IT’S FREE!

From: Twin Share - $340 per person Quad Share - $305 per person

Packages are subject to availability at time of booking and exclude all long weekends, public holidays and Xmas school holidays.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

THE LANDMARK NELSON BAY Reservations: (02) 4984 4633 | Freecall: 1800 200 755 Group Consultant: (02) 4984 8963 | Fax: (02) 4984 4677 Email: res@landmarknelsonbay.com.au | Groups Email: groups@landmarknelsonbay.com.au

SIGN UP TODAY AT WWW.ONCOURSEGOLF.COM.AU

golf queensland

74

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Aces aplenty at Mt Coolum Josie wins fourth Qld Senior Women’s Championship Tony Durkin

I

n July, when Rick Barrett aced the 12th hole at Mt Coolum Golf Club - a week after his regular playing partner Brian Cunningham had holed out on the par three eighth - he hinted that the pair was considering a form of lottery to enable fellow club members to join them in their Thursday group.

Bernie Pramberg

H

eadland’s Josie Ryan overcame a bout of illness to take her fourth PresCare Queensland Senior Women’s championship at Maroochy River.

Rick was, of course, Mt Coolum Golf Club members Rick Barrett and Brian Cunningham being flippant. But he should have taken himself seriously, because last month the James Jansen describes as a ‘fascination’ with third member of their regular group, James holes-in-one.

Jansen, aced the 16th hole.

“A few months ago, also on the 16th hole, However, there is more - much more, in fact.

In the five weeks since June 22, ten holesin-one have been scored at Mt Coolum in competition rounds, one of them by 92-yearold Roy Aiken and another to 78-year-old Judy Reilly. Others to have their names displayed on the ever-expanding honour board are Peter O’Neill, Darryl Crank, Philip Doolan, Jan Wilson and Helen Wilson.

“It is unbelievable. I cannot fathom why all of sudden people are holing out all over the course,” said a dumbfounded General Manager, Sharon Purnell.

Richard Churchman’s tee shot finished five centimetres from the pin,” he explained.

“We were all excited that day about him getting so close, and obviously the talk turned to who had scored a hole-in-one and what that experience would be like. Now, just a few months later, three of us have done it.

“It’s the kind of occurrence you might see in a movie, but certainly not at our little golf club.”

But the magical mystery tour doesn’t finish there. The seven-iron used by James to ace the 16th was not exactly the latest model.

“Obviously the fact we have six par-threes on the course increases the chance, but these past six weeks have been truly remarkable.

We will certainly need a new honour board soon.”

“I bought it for $10 in a bargain barrel at a golf shop on the Gold Coast three years ago,” he explained.

The hole under most attack has been the 16th, with four aces, followed by the eighth, 10th and 12th at two each.

The quartet of James Jansen, Rick Barrett, Brian Cunningham and Richard Churchman have been regular Thursday playing partners for the past two years and, according to James, are unlikely to split.

But the trio of aces to the regular Thursday group is the most alluring statistic. And the one member to have so far missed out, Richard Churchman, actually started what

“It is a Titleist Muscle Back blade iron, and it works a treat.”

“At least not until Richard joins the Hole-inOne Club,” he said.

Ryan, who battled a heavy dose of the flu in the month leading up to the event, defeated Alex Belongoft (Pacific) 2 & 1 in the match play final.

“I’d only had two games of golf in a month leading up to this and virtually dragged myself out of a sick bed to play,’’ said Ryan.

“I played nicely this week, except for my putting which is usually the way,’’ she joked.

“I’m travelling to play the South Australian and Victoria in September so it was satisfying to win in my home state.’

Ryan, 65, has been a consistent performer over many years, winning the Australian Seniors title twice and finishing runnerup at the two previous Queensland championships.

She qualified third in the 65 and over (Div 1) strokeplay with successive rounds of 81.

Leading qualifier Wendy O’Connell (78-80) lost to Ryan (1-down) in a match play semifinal.

Other strokeplay winners were Kim Burke (Shelly Beach) in the 55-64 (Div 1) section, Stephanie Seakins (St Michaels) in the 55-64 (Div 2) and Helen Emery (Maroochy River) in the 65 and over (Div 2) section.

Earlier in the week, Oxley school-teacher Jess Jenkins won her third successive Queensland Women’s Mid-Amateur title by seven strokes at Maroochy River.

Jenkins carded rounds of 75-77-81 to defeat

Olivia Dolan (Noosa GC) with a further four shots to third-placed Colette Blacklock (RydeParramatta).

“The conditions were fairly benign the first two days but the breeze got up on the final days and some of the holes played quite long,’’ said Jenkins.

Jenkins led throughout the event, notching a two-shot lead after the opening round and taking a five-shot advantage into the final day.

A Phys Ed and Science teacher at Springfield Central High School, Jenkins has won the Oxley club championship on seven occasions.

Thank you to sponsors PresCare and host course Maroochy River Golf Club. PresCare continues to evolve as a leading provider high-quality aged-care facilities and in-home community care throughout Queensland.

PresCare recognises the importance of people remaining independent no matter how old they are.

For full results, visit www.golfqueensland.org.au

Keperra Bowl 10 – 13 October Keperra Country Golf Club The Keperra Bowl is an Australian and R&A World Amateur Golf Ranking Event. It is open to players of all ages and is contested over 72-holes stroke play.

Entries now open! www.facebook.com/GolfQueensland

www.golfqueensland.org.au T: (07) 3252 8155

@GolfQueensland

September 2017

75 golf new south wales

www.insidegolf.com.au

How Hannah handled Houston

S

ixteen-year-old Hannah Park has just finished taking part in her first Golf Australia High-Performance Camp in Houston, Texas.

Golf NSW Events Date Event 04-07-Sep-17 Women's Country Meeting 28-Sep-17 Women's Coronation Medal 29-Sep-17 Women's Bronze Medallion

Park wasn’t sure what to expect at her first High-Performance Camp, but the 16-year old has come away invigorated by the experience.

“This was my first time at the Golf Australia national camp; it was an incredible experience,” she smiled.

“I learnt heaps about myself and a lot of things I can improve on to become a better golfer.”

Park was one of about 30 athletes who attended the camp over ten days at the Woodlands resort, including a 10-strong contingent from NSW. “It’s perfect for them to catch up with all their coaches, get their bodies back in shape with some physio as well as strength and conditioning, we even do some Biomechanics,” Dean Kinney, Golf NSW National Coach said.

The camp, which has been running now for seven years, sees players come and go over its 10-day duration according to their playing schedules. The feedback from those that use the facility has been positive.

GOLF NEW SOUTH WALES September CALENDAR OF EVENTS Venue Carnarvon, Liverpool & Macquarie Links GC’s North Ryde & Monash GC’s Roseville & Mona Vale GC’s

Men’s Vardon Events

“The athletes love it, and they feel it prepares them well for the Western Amateur and the US Amateur coming up,” Kinney said.

Not only does the camp cater for HP athletes, but plenty of tour players make use of the facility while it is in town.

“We have PGA Tour players, Web.com, Rookie Squad members, US-based Aussie college golfers. We even have some New Zealand and Argentinian players attend,” Kinney added.

For Park though, one memory of the camp she won’t forget in a hurry are the cool down sessions.

“The best part of the camp was the cool down session which I had to do it every day; It was an ice bath followed by a hot spa.”

“It gives you quite a shock at first, but you feel good at the end,” she smiled.

Entries open for 2017 Women’s NSW Sand Greens Championship The 2017 Women’s NSW Sand Greens Championship is being held at Holbrook Returned Servicemen’s Club on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 October 2017. The Championship is open to female amateur golfers who hold a current Australian or overseas equivalent handicap. It is played over 36-holes stroke play in two divisions.

The Championship also includes the popular teams events whereby teams of three compete, with the two best scores each day counting towards the team total.

More: Contact Olivia Wilson on olivia.wilson@golfnsw.org or (02) 9505 9105.

Date 02-Sep-17 09-Sep-17 09-10-Sep-17 09-10-Sep-17 10-Sep-17 10-Sep-17 16-17-Sep-17 16-Sep-17 17-Sep-17 23-24-Sep-17 23-24-Sep-17 23-Sep-17 23-Sep-17 24-Sep-17 30-01-Sep-17 30-01-Sep-17

Event Lynwood Wyong Open Amateur Tura Open Yowani Open Manly Cup Shelly Beach Open Amateur Goulburn Cup Stonecutters Cup Killara Cup Mens NSW Open Regional Qualifying Event Mens NSW Open Regional Qualifying Event Gosford Open Amateur Liverpool Cup Jubilee Cup WAGR - City of Sydney Amateur Mudgee Open

Venue Lynwood CC Wyong GC Tura Beach GC Yowani CC Manly GC Shelly Beach GC Goulburn GC Stoncutters Ridge GC Killara GC Kew & Wauchope GC’s Moree GC Gosford GC Liverpool GC Bowral GC Moore Park GC Mudgee GC

Women’s Jean Derrin Events Date 01-Sep-17 11-14-Sep-17 14-Sep-17 17-Sep-17 18-20-Sep-17 26-Sep-17 30-01-Sep-17

Event St. Michael’s Salver & Jug Nelson Bay Ladies Golf Classic Bankstown Salver Bermagui Open CSGA Open Annual Championships Wakehurst Silver Salver WAGR - City of Sydney Amateur

Venue St. Michael’s GC Nelson Bay GC Bankstown GC Bermagui CC Gungahlin Lakes, Yowani & Capital GC’s Wakehurst GC Moore Park GC

Men’s Senior Order of Merit Events Date 10-Sep-17 11-Sep-17 21-Sep-17 24-Sep-17 25-Sep-17 28-Sep-17

Event Shelly Beach Seniors Mens Nsw Senior Open Qualifying Event - Magenta Shores Seniors Port Kembla Seniors Jubilee Cup Seniors Wyong Seniors Mens Nsw Senior Open Qualifying Event - Manly Seniors

Venue Shelly Beach GC Magenta Shores GC Port Kembla GC Bowral GC Wyong GC Manly GC

Pennants / Grade Congratulations to the latest St Hallett Wines Hole-in-One Achievers: Gordon Brauer, Myles Burley, Peter Campbell, Colin Dickinson, Helen Harlow, Keith Henning, Matthew Hung, Chris Lamond, Judi Lawrence, Bob Loadsman, Brian Mallon, Ian Mullan, Paula O’Keeffe, Tim Rogers, Steve Sindrey, and Karen Skelton.

Date 10-Sep-17 10-Sep-17 17-Sep-17 24-Sep-17

Event Eric Apperly Shield (& Junior Pennant) Metropolitan - FINAL Warren and Gibson Trophies - Rd 6 Warren and Gibson Trophies Elimination Finals Warren and Gibson Trophies – Quarter Finals

Venue Various Various Riverside Oaks & Glenmore GC’s Twin Creeks GC

For information on any of the above events, or for a full list of fixtures go to: www.golfnsw.org

COME AND WALK THE FAIRWAYS WITH THE PLAYERS

2017 NSW OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP NOVEMBER 16TH – 19TH, 2017 • TWIN CREEKS GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB EARLY BIRD TICKET OFFER – FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY To secure your free season pass, valued at $60.00, go to www.nswopen.com/ticketing before October 29th, 2017*

*

Terms and conditions apply

76

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

CHIPS AND SHANKS

With David Newbery

 david@insidegolf.com.au

POWER’S OFF AND RACING AFTER more than half a decade, she is off.

Last month, Golf Queensland’s Claire Power fired off an email to all her media contacts to let them know she was moving on from her role as communication and marketing manager at the organisation.

“After six-and-a-half years it is time for me to take on a new challenge and move back to the racing industry,” she said.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Golf Queensland and thank you for your assistance, guidance and support over the years.”

“Even then the sound of the driver was ever so sharp.

“After the driver came the irons and after a short space of time I couldn’t cop it anymore of such perfect timing and left the range.”

John said he then proceeded to “hack” his way around the golf course.

“When it came to my game, there was absolutely not one skerrick of resemblance to what I had just seen from Michelle Wie,” he said.

THEN there was the time John visited Celebration Golf Club in Florida.

KOORALBYN PRO UPBEAT

It was a year later and this time John bumped into Anthony Kim when he was just 17 years old.

KOORALBYN Valley head professional John Tolhurst is a new man.

“His ability at that age was just staggering,” John said.

Well, he sounded full of vigour when he answered a call from Inside Golf last month.

For the record, Kim has three PGA Tour wins under his belt, a Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup to his credit.

It’s amazing what a five-week break from work can do.

“I mainly played off a 12 handicap and that crept up as the years went on.

“Five years ago I stopped playing in competitions because I was getting slow and there is nothing more annoying than a slow player.

“I won’t get another hole-in-one because I can’t reach the green these days,” he conceded.

“I’ve lost my strength and if I hit a ball 120 yards I’m happy. It’s just age.

“I feel refreshed and I’m a lot lighter now that I’m walking to and from work.”

THERE are 24 stableford points up for grabs on the front nine. How many can you get?

with David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

1. How many times did Australian Peter Thomson captain the International team at the Presidents Cup? (2 pts) 2. Which country will host the 2019 Presidents Cup? (2 pts) 3.

The first Presidents Cup was played in 1994. Who was the US team’s captain – Arnold Palmer, Hale Irwin, Jack Nicklaus or Tom Watson? (3 pts)

4. What nationality is Presidents Cup International team hopeful Jhonattan Vegas? (4 pts) 5. Who is currently the International team’s number one player for the upcoming Presidents Cup? (2 pts) 6. Who will captain the Americans at this year’s Presidents Cup? (2 pts) 7.

One of the International team’s four assistant captains at this year’s Presidents Cup is an Australian.

Who is he? (3 pts)

8.

Can you solve the following anagram – elf produces? Clue: He is an assistant captain for the American team for the upcoming Presidents Cup. (3 pts)

9. Which country hosted the 2003 Presidents Cup that ended in a 17-17 tie? (3 pts)

‘But I’d like to remain playing for as long as I can.

Tolhurst said Kooralbyn Valley was prepared to host a two-day pro-am on Tuesday and Wednesday October 3-4.

“I’m the oldest member of the club who is still playing and I’d like to be playing next year when the club celebrates its 125th anniversary.”

WELL JOHN, LOOK WHO IT IS IF you play golf and travel as much as Keperra CGC’s John Sellwood you are bound to cross paths with some decent players.

The question remains: Is there anyone in Australia who has more than 80 years’ continuous membership at one club?

In 2001, John and his wife Glenda were in Hawaii when Glenda decided to go shopping while John headed for Ko Olina Golf Club.

“She was flying the ball 200 yards and then the roll out took place.

“I never achieved going round in the same number of strokes as my age, but I never strived for it.

He says he’s given up on chasing his hattrick of aces.

“I hadn’t been on those courses before so I was happy with that,” he said.

“This young 12-year-old was Michelle Wie and she was absolutely amazing.

“My best ever score on the Lyme course was 73.

“We did and I managed to win on the eighth.”

Tolhurst proved he hasn’t lost his touch shooting 73 at Cairns, a par round at Gordonvale and a couple over at Half Moon Bay.

“He insisted so off I went. When I arrived at the range, a teaching pro said ‘look at the young lady hitting balls’.

“When I first started playing, I had a number two-wood, a Brassie as it used to be called, a putter and a three iron,” Lindley said.

“Seven years ago member Harry Scotting and I both reached 90 in the same year and we were egged on by others to play a match of nine holes.

“I played at Cairns, Half Moon Bay and Gordonvale golf courses.”

“I responded by saying I don’t normally do that.

When he joined the Lyme club in 1937, the subscription fee was £3.15 ($5.20), the equivalent of £197 ($324) today.

“‘But I am also the unofficial nonagenarian club champion.

“I needed the break,” Tolhurst enthused.

“I went to Cairns and played more golf in four weeks than I have played in four years.

“I checked in at the pro shop and the pro told me to go to the range to warmup,” John said.

cliff-top course on the Jurassic Coast, it is estimated Lindley has hit more than 330,000 golf balls and he has twice scored a hole-in-one.

The quick nine quiz

(1). Three – 1996, 1998 and 2000; (2). Australia; (3).

Hale Irwin; (4). Venezuelan ; (5). Hideki Matsuyama; (6).

Steve Stricker; (7). Geoff Ogilvy; (8). Fred Couples; (9).

South Africa.

19th Hole

CADDIE WINS US OPEN FRANCIS Ouimet, an amateur, stunned the world in 1913 when he won the US Open.

Lindley Baker keeps on keeping on.

POM’S RECORD MEMBERSHIP AN Englishman recently racked up 80 years of continuous membership at one club.

The Poms claim Lindley Baker, 97, has the record as England’s longest-serving membership.

Lindley plays out of Dorset’s Lyme Regis Golf Club where he continues to play once a week.

During his record time playing the scenic

The American was a caddie and only entered the tournament because of where it was being played.

That was the Brookline Golf Course in Brookline, Massachusetts – right across the road from his house.

For the record, Ouimet defeated Englishman Harry Vardon and Ted Ray in a playoff.

The trio finished on a 304 total – 12-over par.

Congratulations to Brodie O’Loughlin, winner of the latest Inside Golf Facebook giveaway. Brodie was the lucky winner of a brand-new PING driver. For your chance to win great prizes (including ones NOT listed in the magazine), be sure to LIKE the Inside Golf Facebook page! www.facebook.com/insidegolf

September 2017

77

www.insidegolf.com.au

A quiet chap...who always Crossword > keeps to himself...

1

2

3

4

19th Hole

5

6

7

8

9

Larry Canning

10

ed@insidegolf.com.au

I

11

just can’t figure Jordan Spieth out! He remains an absolute enigma to me.

As a golfer he’s clearly pretty handy but there are guys who drive it longer, strike it more purely and swing the club with much more grace and correctness but we knew this already, didn’t we?

13 14

It’s not like Jordan doesn’t fire up! When things aren’t going to plan he can be extremely expressive but it’s only ever at himself. No verbal beating up of his caddy or a camera man who may have been just trying to do his job. His speech after winning the Claret Jug was something you’d expect from the Dalai Lama, not a 24 year-old kid who has been a multi-millionaire since he was an even younger kid.

Failing a shocking revelation that his girlfriend suddenly discovers his mobile phone only has female Christian names stored in it, ranging from Abigail through to Zoey, and this sends her into a jealous rage smacking him over the head with a Nike 9 -ron, 1/2 inch longer than standard with an extra stiff shaft and a cord grip… Jordy appears to be PERFECT! Or is he? I recently played in a Wayne Grady and Brian Jones arranged Charity day at Lakelands Golf Club on the Gold Coast with three great blokes. One was named...well, for his own personal safety perhaps its better I

19

20 22

21 23

24

25

26 27

28

29

“But Jordan, I didn’t order a pizza mate?”

The triple-major champion also doesn’t seem to have a problem signing autographs for the kiddies, giving high-fives to weirdlooking gallery members holding a can of Budweiser in the other hand and even speaking to the evil media with what looks very much like a happy face!

16

18

I wouldn’t be at all surprised to answer the door one night to see Jordan standing there with a Domino’s cap on, holding a family-sized meat-lovers pizza in his hand.

Imagine if he was a in the repossession industry? “Sorry Larry, I’m here to repossess your prized Commodore….. but listen, I’ve had a pretty good year on the PGA Tour, here’s enough cash to buy a brand-newy mate. Say hello to Sandra and the kids!”

15

17

We also know when it comes to showing the Srixons when the pressure could blow the tyre off a Humvee, Jordy is one of the best in history. If there was a stat used to measure “strokes gained” by being ballsier than an Eastern Grey Kangaroo in September, this guy would own it. I kind of understand how he continually beats the best in the world with sheer will and a putter that seems to have a switch under the grip which measures the - “I really need this putt” factor,;it’s the actual bloke I can’t quite fathom. No-one is that bloody perfect!

“I know Larry, but I’m just a really nice guy and I wanted to give you one for free.”

12

30

ACROSS

DOWN

1 Building and an item needed by a player (4,4)

1 Be successful (2,6)

5 Strength (5) don’t expose him in a magazine hundreds of thousands people read each month. I’ll just call him, Neville. Oh, sorry that’s actually his name! Let’s change that to “Nervous”.

9 High-finishing Australian at the 2017 Senior British Open, _____ Lonard (5)

When we were sitting in the clubhouse having some post-round expensive red wines, Nev…. Sorry, Nervous asked me if I have any kids. “Yeah, sure do Nerv, three sons, how about you”. He told me he had two daughters and one of them was married. “Oh that’s nice mate, is he a good bloke”, I said.

12 Tool used to smooth out sand in a bunker (4)

Without battering an eyelid he came back with “He’s a serial killer”.

“Bloody hell, Nervous, do you have evidence?” I whispered.

“Absolutely,” he said, now with his face that close to mine, I felt the need to re-apply some chapstick. “He is polite, respectful, he never argues with me and always claims responsibility when something goes wrong and he’s extremely successful in his field”.

“Well, he certainly fits the profile,” I replied with as much sarcasm as I could muster.

“All these sociopaths have a perfect social front which they use to disguise their true purpose,” he said.

Nerv stood up and walked out right after that, peering over his shoulder and checking his phone as he walked out. I haven’t given it any thought until now but maybe his profiling is right; which leads me to the question – Is Jordan Spieth a serial killer with a brilliant putting stroke?

Maybe we’ll never know. Unless Jordan has a bit of a slump and some of the best players in the world strangely go missing….

Just saying.

10 Replace (9) 11 Someone chosen for a job, perhaps (9)

14 Signs up (6)

2 Break (3-2) 3 Leading Australian amateur who turned professional in April 2017 (6,4) 4 Unexpected wins (6) 5 Highest-finishing Aussie at the Open in 2017, ____ Leishman (4) 6 Passes the group of golfers in front (4,5) 7 Move unsteadily, with a rocking motion (6)

16 An alteration or modification (6)

8 Winner of the Open in 2017, Jordan ______ (6)

18 Free from danger (6)

13 Lacking stability (10)

20 American winner of the 2017 Greenbrier Classic, ______ Schauffele (6)

15 Definite water hazard (9)

23 Pub missile (4) 24 American winner of eight majors (3,6) 27 Sheltered (9) 28 A yawning or gaping hollow (5) 29 American runner-up at the 2017 Greenbrier Classic, Robert _____ (5) 30 One who is extremely accurate (4,4)

16 Ball striker, but not in golf (3) 17 Broadcast (8) 19 Turn around (6) 21 Makes adjustments (6) 22 Dirty mark (6) 25 Hit hard (5) 26 Australian lady golfer with a high finish at the 2017 Scottish Open, Karrie ____ (4)

Answers: page 84

CORRECTION In last month’s crossword, 31 Across, the clue should have referenced the fact that Greg Norman finished sixth in 1999 (NOT 1989). We apologise for any confusion

JOIN THE

(and clubhouse arguments) this may have caused. Our thanks to reader David Sweeney for alerting us to the error.

CONVERSATION

Be part of Inside Golf’s community of vocal and loyal readers! Share your opinions on anything related to golf via our Facebook page. www.facebook.com/insidegolf

WIN GREAT PRIZES

Our Facebook fans have won over $20,000 of prizes since 2016, including drivers, woods, irons, event tickets, laser rangefinders, shoes, golf holidays and more!

19th Hole

78

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

LUCKY ACES Two-in-one for Greg

They say lightning doesn’t strike in the same place twice. Well, for Shelly Beach Golf Club’s Greg Wall it has. The 11 marker has managed to pull-off something remarkable - two holes-in-one during the same round. The odds of the achievement?

A staggering 156 million to one.

Wall pulled off the stunning feat in a Thursday competition at Shelly Beach on the NSW Central Coast. The first ace came on the 132-metre 4th hole when his 8-iron rolled into the cup.

“It’s pretty unbelievable,” A stunned Wall said. “I thought I had hit a good shot on the fourth, I was just hoping to get it close enough to make two points. I bent down to pick my tee up and the boys in the group in front started cheering.”

Unbelievably, he repeated the feat on the 18th hole, when he guided a 5-iron from 153 metres into the cup again.

“I thought I hit the shot on the last well.

It looked pretty good, and then the boys in the group in front have all gone up cheering and screaming again. I thought it was a gee up!”

“I was in a bit of shock afterwards, and had to ask myself what had just happened.”

“I couldn’t believe it, I’m still shaking,” Wall said Club Captain Peter Sliwinski said the members were in disbelief at the achievement.

“I was playing two groups ahead of Greg, and when we heard the cheering from the 4th, well, you know that sort of cheer means a hole-in-one.”

“But when we heard the same cheer on 18, we were all stunned,” Sliwinski said.

Wall’s playing partner John Timmins added “I was the only one of four players who saw both balls go in the hole. Not many others will see this in their lifetime,” smiled Timmins.

Hidden ace in the hole IT was a day for low scoring and great shots at Yamba Golf Club on Saturday, August 5.

It seems no one took much interest in Glen Stephens’ tee shot hit towards the green on the 10th hole.

The group spent five minutes searching bunkers and creeks for his golf ball to no avail.

Glen had almost given up hope when he decided to look in the hole and there it was.

What a lovely discovery, but it’s a shame not one person saw the ball find the bottom of the cup.

Inside Golf congratulates some of the top Aces across Australia last month

Double delight for Concord duo

T

here’s a saying in golf that “there is always that one shot during a round that keeps you coming back for more,” but it’s rare when it happens to two players within a matter of seconds.

E

Last month in the mid-week competition at Concord Golf Club, it happened to Brian Ashmore and Neil Dobbs.

Playing in the same group on the 14th hole, Brian’s nine-iron shot to the par-three, found its way into the hole to the delight of his playing partners.

It’s not often that you get to see a player hole out, let alone two in a group, but they were in for a real treat as Neil, also using a nine-iron, propelled his ball through the air to see it come to rest at the bottom of the cup alongside Brian’s.

“I hit off first,” Brian smiled. “There was a big shadow across the green, so we weren’t really sure it had gone into the hole.”

“Glyn (Lawry) our playing partner, got to the hole first. He looked in the hole and began to laugh, then he put two fingers up in the air to say, there’s two in there!” Ashmore said.

“It was a bit of a feat,” Dobbs added. “I couldn’t believe it.”

“It was an all-round good hole. You wait an age for one ace, and two come along at once.”

The odds of this feat occurring? Well, according to some reports, it’s about 1.3 million to one for two golfers in the same group to ace two holes in a round, and the odds for two golfers in the same group to ace the same hole is about 26 million to one.

For Dobbs, it was ace number four, while for Ashmore, it was his third.

Both Brian and Neil were chuffed to have achieved this amazing feat, and judging by the photo of their balls resting in the cup side by side, they may be applying for a golf ball sponsorship in the near future. For now though, it’s bragging rights about the feat back at the club.

Ace....for a three AH, the vagaries of golf . . . and how they come back to bite us.

Former Roseville Golf Club champion Sean Abernethy overcooked his tee shot on the 12th at Roseville during last month’s medal round.

He thought he might have knocked it onto the oval behind the par-three green and decided he had better play a provisional, just in case.

You guessed it, the next shot went straight into the hole for an ace, well a nice par, actually.

Abernethy simply shrugged and went on to shoot 71 off his three handicap and a regulation 15th spot in the monthly medal.

His playing partners were far more upset they didn’t get the free round of drinks that usually accompanies an ace (and a ringing of the bell) at Roseville.

One Ace...four wheels 156 players turned out for the medal round at Eastlake last month in windy conditions and slick greens that pushed the DSR up to 75, but that didn’t affect Nick Stemi who aced the 17th and won a Genesis car!

Stemi, the brother of club captain Peter Stemi pitched his ball about 5m short of the pin and it rolled about half a meter past the cup, only to gently roll back into the hole.

The 17th at Eastlake is quite famous for a DC3 plane crash on 4th November 1957, where everyone escaped without injury except one person who broke their leg. Older members will know the hole as ‘Mission Impossible’, as it used to be 190m and a torturous test as you finish your round.

Four aces in three months! very day, every week, Kenny Emslie of every year, Club golfers trudge their way around suburban and country golf clubs suffering all the regular golfing frustrations and occasional highs the game provides. Fame is left for the Jason Days and Adam Scotts of the golfing world. Recently however, Kenny Emslie of the RACV Country Club in Healesville, changed all that. This canny 62 year-old Scot has achieved something that lends inspiration to all of us hackers.

Kenny has been a member at Healesville for four years and shared the usual trials and tribulations of the regular ‘B’ Grade golfer. However, how many of us have actually even seen a hole-in-one, let alone had one? Well, this Scot has managed to drop four of them in the hole in the space of only three months.

For the record, Kenny aced the 130m 10th hole on the 11th March, the 141m 13th on the 25th April and backed it all up with two more on his lucky 10th hole, on the 16th of May and again on the 6th of June.

Being a typical dour Scotsman he plays down his freakish achievement, “Two of them were just lucky.” he says, “the other two were pretty good shots I guess,” is as near as he comes to boasting.

To add to these Hall of fame-like statistics he also unassumingly added, “I did have one years ago, but as I was playing on my own I guess it doesn’t count.”

Originating from Aberdeenshire in Scotland he has called Australia home for 32 years. For 15 of his years here he played golf only five or six times annually.

His amazing achievement lends hope to all high handicappers who endure the difficulties of trying to fulfil the requirements of Kenny’s Country’s, Royal and Ancient game.

Ace joy for Joyce

Things are going well at Eastlake, with healthy membership and social bookings.

They are going through a bunker renovation programme at present under the watchful eye of their superintendent Nathan Bradbury.

The course is looking great, blessed with a combination of bore water irrigation and a sandy bade that withstands weather extremes. Golfers will be interested to know that Eastlake’s long-standing professional Ross Stratchan has retired after 37 years at the helm.

We bet he has some great stories to tell!

Bubbly Carbrook Member Joyce Hill has amazed the Club achieving her first ace at the tender age of 83. The perfectlystruck 5-iron on the 106m 7th hole made her day and she celebrated in style with a glass of wine after the game with her group. Joyce is a valued member and makes a huge contribution to the Club’s garden maintenance and beautification.

Well done!

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

79

EVENTS

20th Young Cherry Festival Veterans Week of Golf O

ne of the highlights of the annual Young Cherry Festival is the annual Veterans Week of Golf. Seniors from far and wide will make the pilgrimage to the Riverina this year from November 20-24.

This will be the 20th Young Cherry Festival Veterans Week of Golf, and the event is scheduled and approved by the NSW Veteran Golfers Association.

This year the rewards for golfers will be as plentiful as the cherries, as Young Golf Course presents a picturesque and challenging layout and rewards the accurate player who can keep the ball on its lush and beautifully-manicured fairways.

calendar Each club entering the competition nominates the players to represent and the courses on which each pair will compete. The Bronze Medallion is awarded to the team with the best aggregate of four nett scores.

Entries are currently open for this event and will close on Sunday the 10th of September.

For further information about the 2017 Women’s Bronze Medallion contact Amos Hessell at Golf NSW on 02 9505 9105 or email Amos.Hessell@golfnsw.org

There is also a free and extensive cherry raffle at the presentation dinner on Friday evening.

SEPTEMBER 2017 Women’s Coronation Medal

2017 Women’s Bronze Medallion

The 2017 Women’s Bronze Medallion will be played at Roseville and Mona Vale Golf Clubs on Friday 29th of September.

The event is an 18-holes stroke handicap competition for teams of four players on GA handicaps from 20.1 to 29.0.

The week begins with something that ‘vintage’ players enjoy almost as much as their golf: a wine tasting and fashion parade on Sunday (November 19) and an opportunity for regular players to catch up with golfing mates from all parts of the compass.

The cherry harvest is generally in full swing by then and cherries are very much featured in the week’s activities.

Visiting golfers (and their partners) get the opportunity to visit an orchard and pick their own fruit or arrange to purchase cases of fruit.

The 2017 Women’s Coronation Medal will be played at North Ryde Golf Club and Monash Country Club on Thursday the 28th of September.

The Coronation Medal has become a most prestigious event. The Medal was donated by the English Ladies Golf Union to celebrate the Coronation of King Edward VII. The format is an 18-holes stroke handicap competition for teams of four players on GA handicaps from plus to 20.0, played over two courses which are determined by the previous year’s competition.

Each club entering the competition nominates the players to represent it and the courses on which each pair will compete.

Entries are currently open for this event, entries close on September 10.

For further information about the 2017 Women’s Coronation Medal contact Amos Hessell at Golf NSW on 02 9505 9105 or email Amos.Hessell@golfnsw.org

Handiskins

www.handiskins.com.au Handiskins the ultimate game of skins for club golfers. Handiskins is a five-qualifying-round stableford competition. A player’s best three rounds count towards their final score.

Players don’t have to play all five qualifying rounds if their scores are good enough.

The top four players with the best scores at the end of the qualifying rounds go into the ‘skins’ format final and have the opportunity to play for $1,200 in club or pro shop vouchers.

UPCOMING HANDISKINS EVENTS: Cowra Golf Club Mees Road, Cowra NSW 2794 5th Qualifying Round 16th September 2017 Final 24th September 2017 Northern Golf Club 97 Glenroy Road, Glenroy VIC 3046 4th Qualifying Round 9th September 2017 5th Qualifying Round 21st October 2017 Final 9th December 2017 Nelson Bay Golf Club Dowling Street, Nelson Bay NSW 2315 4th Qualifying Round 9th September 2017 5th Qualifying Round 21st October 2017 Final 25th November 2017 Pacific Dunes Golf Club Championship Drive, Medowie NSW 2318 4th Qualifying Round 30th September 2017 5th Qualifying Round 11th November 2017 Final 25th November 2017

Northbridge Golf Club Sailors Bay Road, Northbridge NSW 2063 3rd Qualifying Round 9th September 2017 4th Qualifying Round 16th September 2017 5th Qualifying Round 30th September 2017 Final 11th November 2017 Kiama Golf Club Oxley Avenue, Kiama Downs NSW 2533 3rd Qualifying Round 2nd September 2017 4th Qualifying Round 16th September 2017 5th Qualifying Round 30th September 2017 Final 22nd October 2017 Moss Vale Golf Club 38-48 Arthur Street, Moss Vale NSW 2577 4th Qualifying Round 9th September 2017 5th Qualifying Round 16th September 2017 Final 23rd September 2017 Wentworth Falls Country Club 206-220 Blaxland Road, Wentworth Falls NSW 2782 3rd Qualifying Round 9th September 2017 4th Qualifying Round 16th September 2017 5th Qualifying Round 23rd September 2017 Final 8th October 2017

From its early beginnings in 1998, when there were about 100 players participating, the fields for this event have grown in popularity to a point where, in more recent years it has hosted more than 200 players each day.

There are a limited number of golf carts available for hire thanks to the generosity of some of Young’s club members.

So be sure to book early.

For more information: phone (02) 6382-1543 or visit www.younggolfclub.com.au Alternately, contact golf director Bill Kearney on (02) 6382-5555.

OCTOBER 2017 Women’s Mountain Meeting The 2017 Women’s Mountain Meeting will be played this year at Lithgow, Blackheath, Leura and Wentworth Falls Golf Clubs from Monday 16 to Thursday 19 October 2017.

This event is one of the longest-running and most popular tournaments on the Golf NSW women’s calendar. The Mountain Meeting began in 1930 and was won by Mrs D. O’Brien who received The Yallambee Cup and then in 1970, after event participation numbers expanded, The Blue Mountains Salver for Division Two was introduced (this trophy was donated in appreciation by the Blue Mountains District Council). As recently as the year 2000, The Megalong Valley trophy was introduced for Division Three players, who support and enjoy the Mountain Meeting in ever increasing numbers each year.

The format begins on Monday 16 and Tuesday 17 with 36-hole stroke play for Division one and 36-hole stableford

Bayview Golf Club 1825 Pittwater Road, Mona Vale NSW 2103 3rd Qualifying Round 16th September 2017 4th Qualifying Round 23rd September 2017 5th Qualifying Round 30th September 2017 Final 14th October 2017 Bribie Island Golf Club Links Court, Woorim QLD 4507 2nd Qualifying Round 9th September 2017 3rd Qualifying Round 21st October 2017 4th Qualifying Round 28th October 2017 5th Qualifying Round 11th November 2017 Final 9th December 2017 Hurstville Golf Club Lorraine Street, Peakhurst NSW 2210 1st Qualifying Round 2nd September 2017 2nd Qualifying Round 9th September 2017 3rd Qualifying Round 16th September 2017 4th Qualifying Round 23rd September 2017 5th Qualifying Round 30th September 2017 Final 28th October 2017 Rosebud Country Club 207 Boneo Road, Rosebud VIC 3939 1st Qualifying Round 2nd September 2017 2nd Qualifying Round 23rd September 2017 3rd Qualifying Round 28th October 2017 4th Qualifying Round 11th November 2017 5th Qualifying Round 25th November 2017 Final 9th December 2017 Ryde Parramatta Golf Club 1156 Victoria Road, West Ryde NSW 2114 1st Qualifying Round 9th September 2017 2nd Qualifying Round 16th September 2017 3rd Qualifying Round 23rd September 2017 4th Qualifying Round 30th September 2017 5th Qualifying Round 7th October 2017 Final 14th October 2017

for Division two. On Wednesday 18 the Foursomes are held in two divisions. On the final day, Thursday 19, a four-person Teams V Par Event completes the tournament.

Players can nominate to play in all four days of play or play in individual days of their choice. Golf NSW is happy to assist competitors to find a partner for the foursomes or complete a team of four for the Teams Event.

The ever popular Trophy Presentation this year will be held on the evening of Tuesday 17 October at Wentworth Falls Country Club.

Entries for this event are now open. Entries are One Day - $50 one day ($40 online). $90 two days ($80 online), $130 three days ($120 online) or $140 four days ($130 online).

Entries close: Monday 2nd October 2017 at 5.00pm. Full event details are available at www.golfnsw.org

Berwick Montuna Golf Club 335 Beaconsfield- Emerald Road, Guys Hill VIC 3807 1st Qualifying Round 9th September 2017 2nd Qualifying Round 16th September 2017 3rd Qualifying Round 23rd September 2017 4th Qualifying Round 14th October 2017 5th Qualifying Round 4th November 2017 Final 12th November 2017 Queens Park Golf Club 150 Queens Park Road, Highton VIC 3216 1st Qualifying Round 16th September 2017 2nd Qualifying Round 23rd September 2017 3rd Qualifying Round 30th September 2017 4th Qualifying Round 4th November 2017 5th Qualifying Round 11th November 2017 Final 2nd December 2017 Burleigh Golf Club Cnr Albion & Bardon Avenue, Miami QLD 4220 1st Qualifying Round 23rd September 2017 2nd Qualifying Round 30th September 2017 3rd Qualifying Round 7th October 2017 4th Qualifying Round 14th October 2017 5th Qualifying Round 28th October 2017 Final 11th November 2017 Sandhurst Golf Club 75 Sandhurst Blvd, Sandhurst VIC 3977 1st Qualifying Round 28th September 2017 2nd Qualifying Round 12th October 2017 3rd Qualifying Round 19th October 2017 4th Qualifying Round 26th October 2017 5th Qualifying Round 9th November 2017 Final 16th November 2017

YOUR VOICE

80

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

This month’s winner!

This month’s Prize: 1 dozen Volvik Vibe balls

Towards not such a slippery Slope Richard Fellner, in his editorial ‘State to state, a slippery slope’ (Inside Golf, July 2017), made a number of assertions about Slope, a component of the USGA Course Rating System, and also the Australian system since the beginning of 2014. Specifically, the following points were made.

1. The current course rating system is possibly inaccurate in its estimation of Scratch and Slope Ratings.

2. The USGA system was designed for American courses, and does not translate very well to Australian circumstances.

3. Actual scores would provide a more evidence-based, objective basis for estimating course ratings than the current subjective USGA system.

4. There may be consistent differences between course ratings estimated in the different Australian states.

5. Slope estimates generate Daily Handicaps that often lead to inequitable results, particularly in relation to players playing ‘away’.

As someone who has been involved in handicapping and course rating at the national and state levels for nearly 30 years, but who is now no longer officially involved at either, I consider I am in a position to make some relevant comments.

First, some history. Back in 2008, Golf Australia decided to review both its handicapping and course rating systems. Two subcommittees of the then Handicapping and Course Rating Committee, of which I was a member, were established: one to consider handicapping, which I chaired; the other to consider course rating. Both subcommittees examined possible alternatives, and made recommendations to the committee. It was unanimously agreed that the USGA Course Rating System should be adopted as it offered the most consistent and accurate method of estimating what is now called the Scratch Rating, but the Slope Rating was a bit of a mystery, as it was not then applicable in Australia, and people were mostly aware of it because it was used in the USA and New Zealand. The handicapping issue was much more contentious: one viewpoint was that Australia should ‘go with the strength’ and adopt the USGA system; the other was that Australia had a good system that needed some ‘tweaking’, but that worked pretty well for our golfing culture. In the end, the decision was made to go for the USGA system, but that it would be introduced in stages.

In fact, this occurred, but before the ‘final’ stage, involving the application of Slope, could be introduced, Australian golfers, and GA, realised the interim system was producing substantial inequities. This led to GA developing the current DSR-based system, which was introduced in early 2014. This new, uniquely Australian system differed in significant ways from the USGA system but it still included Slope, with no real change made to the course rating process.

As Richard noted, the course rating process is based on raters undertaking a large number of measurements (e.g, width of fairways, area of greens, distance to hazards, etc), but in fact there are very few subjective judgements made. Perhaps the two most significant are difficulty of playing out of trees, and how ‘flat’ a green is, but these are only two of five ‘length’ and ten ‘obstacle’ factors, most of which require precise measurements and determination of ‘points’ based on the measurements.

A more fundamental question is ‘how valid is the whole procedure?’; i.e, are the various factors and their points allocations appropriate, and do they lead to acceptable overall outcomes?

Most courses seem to have acceptable Scratch Ratings, but it is the Bogey Rating, and hence

the Slope Rating, that seems to be the most problematic. The whole process has been subject to a very large amount of analysis by the USGA, but based primarily on its own courses, and there are a few aspects of it that haven’t translated well to Australia.

So, can we use actual scores to estimate course ratings? The answer is Yes, but it is not a straightforward exercise, principally because most golfers play most of their golf on their home tracks, so their handicaps, which must be used in the process, are based mainly on those scores. A better way is using scores of Away golfers, which is fine for clubs with lots of visitors and players playing elsewhere, but not much help for a small country club with few visitors. GA has, in fact, suspended the use of the rater-based program, except for new or renovated courses, in the expectation that a scores-based method can be applied. This has not yet eventuated, but Golf Link is undertaking the necessary software development and trials, with the hope that such a method may be introduced in the near future. The issue of clubs with small visitor numbers may still require the retention of the rater-based system, if no reliable scores-based estimation process can be applied to them.

Now, all 1500 or so venues in Australia were needed to be rated before the current handicap system could be implemented, and that required a massive effort by a largely volunteer-based group in all states and territories. GA organised initially for lead raters from all state associations to be trained by USGA people; in turn, these state people trained hundreds of others across the country, and the ratings were carried out. GA has tried to ensure consistency of ratings across the states by periodically holding workshops for lead raters, and getting such people to rate courses outside their own states. The general feedback from such raters was that, indeed, there was consistency across the states. However, given the urgency and size of the job, the use of such a large taskforce, and the inevitable learning experience associated with the program, it seemed prudent to revisit the initial course ratings. Indeed, Golf Victoria was halfway through rerating all of its courses (there were some consequential changes, with most of these leading to slight reductions in both Scratch and Slope Ratings), but halted this process when GA suspended the program at the end of 2014.

Is it likely there are significant consistent differences between ratings in different states? In relation to Scratch Ratings, probably not, given their general acceptance. In relation to Slope, maybe, but this could only be really tested if bunches of experienced raters spent time rating in other states (unlikely), or if ratings from the upcoming scores-based system could be analysed and compared (more likely). It will be interesting to see the outcomes of such analysis, assuming GA does this and releases the results.

What about the concern that Slope estimates generate course handicaps that often lead to inequitable results, particularly in relation to players playing ‘away’? Here, there is a substantial amount of evidence, much of which I have gathered and analysed. I am aware of at least six different investigations that all point to the same conclusion.

• In Scotland, results were analysed from open handicap competitions hosted at a variety of courses in which visiting players from clubs with a range of Slopes participated.

• New Zealand women’s golf data was used to compare home and away results under the then Australian CCR-based and NZ Slope-based systems.

• Golf Victoria’s Technical Services Committee in 2014 examined results from across Victoria for men’s and women’s handicap pennant match play competitions.

• Results of players from Melbourne clubs that swapped courses on the same day were compared.

• Results before and after were compared at two Melbourne clubs where changes to the golf course were implemented, resulting in the Scratch and Slope Ratings being reduced substantially.

• Results before and after were compared at a Victorian club where no changes to the golf courses themselves were implemented but the Scratch and Slope Ratings were changed substantially.

The following general conclusion arose from all six analyses. The Slope component of the handicap system has had unexpected and inappropriate effects. When players play at courses with markedly higher Slopes, they are more likely to improve their net scores; and, when players play at courses with lower Slopes, their net scores are more likely to worsen. Thus, Slope-adjusted handicaps do not lead to fairer outcomes for players playing ‘away’, particularly for players whose playing experience is, in the main, at the same venue. This is a serious issue and is almost certainly leading to unfairness in competition results involving players playing at courses with Slopes which are markedly different from that of their home club.

It is probable that the observations made by Richard Fellner in his editorial about ‘away’ performances are for the reason noted above.

The following recommendation is made. Given that Slope has been accepted as an important component of the Australian Handicapping System it would obviously not be appropriate to consider removing it. However, GA should consider reducing the deleterious effects of Slope, perhaps by ‘flattening’ the effects of Slope differences between courses. One way of doing this could be to reduce the range of permissible Slope values from their current 55–155 to, say, 100– 130. Another might be to ‘cap’ the amount by which a Daily Handicap could be adjusted from its base GA Handicap.

As most readers would be aware, the R&A and USGA are currently working on a world handicapping system. Australia’s experiences have contributed considerably to this work, both because of our relatively successful recent changes, and because of personnel involvement in the development deliberations. However, if Australia is to make further changes to its system, based on the proposed world system, GA and Australian golfers must be convinced that such changes are advantageous because of the universality of the system, but are not disadvantageous by leading to further inequities.

Murray Cropley

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

81

DS-R-you kidding?

DUMP the DSR

I understand why Richard Fellner would like to use actual results to determine both a golfer’s handicap and the course difficulty but surely this is like trying to “pull yourself up by your own boot laces”. Golf Link gives golfers a handicap according to the course difficulty on which they played. If you now try to determine the course difficulty by looking at the performance of those golfers you start to go round in circles. To put it another way, a player’s handicap and course difficulty are two related variables. Golf Link data will give you one relationship between the two but to solve a problem of two variables you need two relationships. Hence the Slope calculation and why the USGA is far superior to the old Australian handicap system.

Having read your article with great interest and having been involved in slope rating / course rating since 2005, plus doing a lot of analysis regarding the effects of the slope rating, plus the effects of the handicapping system in it’s new form, I would like to set the record straight regarding the slope rating “coming from opinion”. This is not correct for a number of reasons.

Is it possible that part of the problem that concerns Richard Fellner is due to “cheating” and players not being exactly sure what constitutes cheating? For example: Player A deliberately plays badly and puts in high scores in the weeks leading up to the Club championships.

Player B uses the competitions in the lead up to the Club championships to practice the weak parts of his game rather than play his best golf.

Player C practices 3 hours a day for 7 days before the Club championships, something he never usually does.

Player D takes a bucket of balls onto the range before each match of the club championship, something he never usually does.

All of these player’s actions will undermine the handicap system and help them start with a handicap higher than their playing ability but have all four cheated? This is an area where statistical analysis of Golf Link data should be used to identify and disqualify statistically unlikely championship results.

I do not believe that golf is any different in Australia than the 50 or so other countries that use the USGA system. What is different are the adjustments that Golf Australia has made to the system. Golf Australia uses an average of the best 8 of a players scores rather than an average of the best 10. A sample of size 8 is, of course, less accurate than a sample size of 10 and it will also update less frequently.

In consequence an Australian handicap is a less accurate measure of a person’s playing ability and I doubt this leads to a better handicapping system.

By adding the complexity of the Daily Scratch Rating, Golf Australia have added a third, ill-defined, variable. I see no significant impact from the DSR on handicaps and question if it is anything other than spurious accuracy. What is certain is that it takes some enjoyment from the game. Golf Australia admit that golfers will not understand how the DSR is calculated and this, in itself, is a serious drawback. We now start play not knowing what would be a good score for us and do not understand the result when we do eventually get it. This is no fun and will not attract new golfers. Without DSR golfers know on each hole their target strokes for that hole and, as they walk off the 18th green, if they have had a good round.

Handicapping is a near impossible task. The difficulty is due to the fact that as a player’s ability improves his probability distribution of scores moves steadily from something more or less symmetrical to a very skewed Poisson like distribution. (It is far easier for a 30 handicapper to shoot 10 under than it is a scratch golfer but they can both shoot 10 over, no problem.) I would never take handicap golf too seriously and I would prefer all Clubs to list the absolute results as well as the handicap results.

Ron Toovey

Is Golf Australia double dipping?

In response to two letters in the July Issue regarding Australian Golf double dipping with affiliation fees, despite GA’s response, I believe they are double dipping. I believe that GA does not want to go ‘there’ because of the bottom line in how much income they would lose. In the past, players who are members of multiple clubs haven’t worried too much about the cost but now with the affiliation fees increasing over the years players are starting to think twice as to how much the fee is and that they are paying it multiple times. The fact is that a member of multiple clubs not only pays multiple affiliation fees but also the fee

included to be a member of Golf Link but a player can only have one GolfLink number.

Over the past few years there has been a lot of talk about the number of members of clubs and membership rates dropping. Personally I question where the figures come from. Do they count the number of club members using the numbers they receive affiliation fees from?

If this is how GA determine their numbers then it isn’t accurate as it doesn’t take into account the number of players who are members of multiple clubs.

Name withheld at writers request.

Peter: Please play In response to Peter Griffin’s letter (Hardware for the high markers): Peter, play in your comps. The majority of Comp players are concerned mainly with their own game. The only thing you have to do is keep up with the pace of play. It doesn’t matter if you take extra shots as long you end up at the green at the same time as the other players.

They will appreciate it and you’ll always be welcome. As a side benefit, witnessing how more skilful players handle the course may

help you improve. Give it a go and good luck.

Speaking personally I’m a senior citizen with a long playing history. I enjoy watching top golfers in action whenever I get the chance whether it’s pro golfers in a tournament or your club pennant players or even the finals of your club championships.

If you can, take time out to watch these good players. Don’t give up.

Brian Cunningham

1. Three people do the rating and all have to agree to a difficulty number.

2. These three people are made up of two independent “raters” plus a Member of the Golf Club are involved.

3. Length makes up approximately 80% of the slope rating.

Having also played Golf in over 20 Countries in the World, I fail to see how one Country is different to another. The average handicap Golfer is totally “spooked” by, Water, Creeks, Bunkers etc.; their game changes when they have hazards in front of them.

I do however believe that the use of the Slope Rating together with the DSR (daily scratch rating) is absolutely incorrect, while there is a Slope Rating in place. We have to trust the Slope Rating, or call for it to be modified if Club Scores show differently.

Editor’s note:

YOUR VOICE

The reason for me saying the DSR should be scrapped, while there is a Slope Rating in place is simple.

Example: An 18 Handicapper (handicapped at a Neutral 113 slope) arrives to play a Course that has a 142 slope, will start with a 26 handicap. This obviously goes in to the calculations, and if this player now plays to their Club Handicap 18, they are likely to have 44 points, this put into the DSR calculations makes a mockery of the slope rating, because every score is converted to a stableford score.

If there is any regular average handicap golfer out there who can honestly say that all their good scores are only on good weather days and scored on short golf courses, keep the DSR, otherwise dump it and let’s just modify the effect of the slope rating / course difficulty on the handicapping of golfers. As it seriously is very skewed towards the higher handicapper.

In summary I have played a huge number of games of Golf (over 5000 rounds) in the last 35 years. Yes, weather does play a part, however just because the weather is good with no wind, this does not mean a good round of golf. My handicap should NEVER be affected by someone else’s ability or inability to play the course, that I play to the best of my ability.

Bruce Toddun

In a document sent to states and clubs in January this year, Golf Australia made a note pertaining to scratch ratings and real score data usage:

and Slope Ratings. Further to this feedback we directed our statisticians to develop some formulae that would achieve this objective.

State Associations will soon have access to new GOLF Link functionality for this purpose.

Note: Via the survey, GA received a significant amount of feedback requesting that we try to find a way to use real score data in GOLF Link to aid the process of determining Scratch Ratings

Inside Golf understands that this worldleading initiative has already generated quite a lot of positive domestic feedback and is being followed very closely internationally.

New female dress code just a smokescreen Re the new dress code proposed on the women’s tour. This is a touchy subject indeed.

Women fight everyday for their rights, and new restrictions might be seen as a step back. This is open to debate, of course.

Although saying that these new rules will not help grow the game, in my opinion is just a smokescreen. Male pro golfers have strict dress code too, no shorts for example.

The game of golf, both male and female is struggling for several reasons. Many of those reasons have been extensively discussed in

this magazine. Is it possibly the lack of role models? As sports fans, we do not watch or play a sport for the attire, but for the performance of the competitors. Many of us picked up a sport from ayoung age because of an individual or a team. Michael Jordan in basketball and Tiger Woods in golf are the two reasons I play those sports. I watch the LPGA because I want to see phenomenal players like Min-Jee Lee and Lydia Ko, not because of their attire.

Dr Daouda A.K. TRAORE

Tiger and Katherine, good reading!

Richard, I really enjoyed the article you wrote on Tiger (Starter’s Box, August Issue). I agree with you, get him some help and let him be.

Also, the article on Katherine (Hull) Kirk was great. I had the pleasure of being a walking Marshall with her 15 years ago--a true and interesting lady (I’m a yank so we had many

NOTE

stories for 18 holes). I’m glad to say I enjoyed the next 14 years I spent working with her at the LPGA on the Gold Coast. I got to meet her family and her husband. Due to my back injury I no longer volunteer for the LPGA but I still enjoy following her golf progress.

Larry (Laz) Mulder

A recent story on Burleigh Golf Club (June issue) featured a marvellous photo which went uncredited. The photographer was the club’s Admin Staff member, Katie Murray. We apologise for the omission.

demo dates PING

82

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Ph: (02) 9524 8233 or visit www.ping.com

Location

Day

New South Wales / ACT Mona Vale Golf Club ≠ * Friday Monday Woollahra Golf Club ≠ * Ryde Parramatta Golf Club ≠ * Tuesday New South Wales Golf Club ≠ * Wednesday Shoalhaven Heads Golf Club ≠ * Thursday Shelly Beach Golf Club ≠ * Friday Toukley Golf Club ≠ * Saturday Blackheath Golf Club ≠ * Tuesday Wentworth Falls Country Club ≠ * Wednesday Golf Paradise Driving Range ≠ * Thursday Muirfield Golf Club ≠ * Friday Tueesday Muswellbrook Golf Club ≠ * Moree Golf Club ≠ * Wednesday Armidale Golf Club ≠ * Thursday Tamworth Golf Club ≠ * Friday Killara Golf Club ≠ * Tuesday Bonnie Doon Golf Club ≠ * Wednesday Springwood Country Club ≠ * Thursday Windsor Country Club ≠ * Friday Queensland Mackay Golf Club Driving Range ≠ * Friday Mackay Golf Club ° Saturday Drummond Golf Townsville ≠ * Monday Tuesday Victoria Park Driving Range ° * Drummond Golf Cairns ≠ * Tuesday Paradise Palms Resort & CC ≠ * Tuesday Cairns Golf Club ≠ * Wednesday House of Golf Ballina ≠ * Thursday Golf World Townsville ≠ * Thursday Byron Bay Golf Club ≠ * Friday Nudgee Golf Club ≠ * Friday Pelican Waters Golf Club ° * Wednesday Golf Gurus Brisbane ° Thursday Pacific Golf Club ° * Friday Wednesday Indooroopilly Golf Club ≠ * Golf Central ≠ * Thursday Maroochy River Golf Club ° Friday Palm Meadows ° Friday Victoria Kew Golf Club ≠ * Friday Woodlands Golf Club ≠ * Saturday Kooringal Golf Club ≠ * Tuesday Barwon Heads Golf Club ≠ * Wednesday National Golf Club - Long Island ≠ * Thursday Mornington Golf Club ≠ * Friday Sorrento Golf Club ≠ * Saturday Wednesday Riversdale Golf Club ≠ * National Golf Club - Cape Schanck ≠ * Friday Warrnambool Golf Club ≠ * Thursday Western Australia Maylands G C ° / ≠ Friday Melville Glades G C ° / ≠ Wednesday Geraldton G C ° / ≠ Thursday Spalding Park G C ° / ≠ Friday Meadow Springs G C ° / ≠ Wednesday Royal Perth G C ° / ≠ Wednesday South Australia South Lakes Golf Club ≠ * Saturday Barham Golf Club ≠ * Saturday Mc Cracken Country Club ≠ * Saturday Mt Gambier Golf Club ≠ * Friday Royal adelaide Golf Club ≠ * Saturday Glenelg Golf Club ≠ * Sunday Victor Harbor Golf Club ≠ * Monday Tea Tree Gully Golf Club ≠ * Tuesday House Of Golf Adelaide ≠ * Tuesday Royal adelaide Golf Club ≠ * Wednesday Grange Golf Club ≠ * Wednesday Kooyonga Golf Club ≠ * Thursday West Lakes Golf Club ≠ * Thursday Mt Barker Hahndorf Golf Club ≠ * Friday Adelaide Shores Golf Park ≠ * Friday Mt Osmond Golf Club ≠ * Saturday

Date Time

September 01 8am - 12pm September 04 9am - 1pm September 05 1 - 5pm September 06 9am - 1pm September 07 10am - 2pm September 08 12 - 5pm September 09 9am - 1pm September 12 10am - 2pm September 13 10am - 3pm September 14 4 - 7pm September 15 10am - 2pm September 19 12 - 4pm September 20 12 - 5pm September 21 12 - 5pm September 22 9am - 2pm September 26 1 - 5pm September 27 9am - 2pm September 28 8am - 1pm September 29 12 - 5pm September 01 2 - 6pm September 02 9am - 2pm September 04 1 - 4pm September 05 5 - 7.30pm September 05 8.30 - 11.30am September 05 1 - 6pm September 06 7am - 1pm September 07 2 - 6pm September 07 12 - 3pm September 15 1 - 5pm September 15 12 - 4pm September 20 9am - 12pm September 21 5 - 7.30pm September 22 10am - 1pm September 27 12 - 5pm September 28 3 - 7pm September 29 2 - 5pm September 29 1 - 5pm September 01 9am - 2pm September 02 10am - 2pm September 05 1 - 5pm September 06 10am - 2pm September 07 10am - 2pm September 08 9am - 3pm September 09 9am - 3pm September 13 9am - 3pm September 15 12 - 4pm September 21 10am - 2pm September 01 September 06 September 07 September 08 September 13 September 20

1 - 5pm 9.30am - 1pm 9.30am - 2pm 8.30am - 12pm 10am - 1pm 10am - 1pm

September 02 September 09 September 16 September 22 September 23 September 24 September 25 September 26 September 26 September 27 September 27 September 28 September 28 September 29 September 29 September 30

10am - 12.30pm 10am - 2pm 7.30am - 12pm 9am - 1pm 8am - 4.30pm 10am - 4pm 1 - 5pm 8am - 12.30pm 2.30 - 5.30pm 8am - 12pm 1 - 6pm 8am - 12.30pm 2 - 6pm 8am - 12.30pm 2 - 6pm 8am - 12.30pm

* Appointment Only. ** Members Only. °Ping Demo day. ◊ Ping Fitting. ≠ Callaway Demo Day. √ Callaway Fitting. ∞ Callaway Performance Centre Day. Dates subject to change without notice. It is recommended that you contact venue before attending.

CALLAWAY

Location

www.callawaygolf.com.au | callawaygolf.com/demo-days

New South Wales / ACT Newcastle Golf Club √ ** Woollahra Golf Club √ / ≠ * Castle Hill Country Club √ / ≠ * Liverpool Golf Club √ * Victoria Woodlands Golf Club √ * ** Eastwood Golf Club ∞ ** Flinders Golf Club ∞ ** Melbourne Golf Academy ≠ * Spring Valley Golf Club ∞ ** Rossdale Golf Club √ * Rossdale Golf Club √ * South Australia Kooyonga Golf Club √ / ≠ * Grange Golf Club √ ** Victor Harbor Golf Club √ Western Australia Mount Lawley Golf Club Carramar Golf Club Wanneroo Golf Club Royal Perth Golf Club * Joondalup Country Club

MIZUNO

Location

Day

Date Time

Wednesday Monday Wednesday Thursday

September 06 10am - 2pm September 11 9am - 1pm September 20 9am - 1pm September 28 9am - 1pm

Saturday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Tuesday Saturday Thursday

September 02 September 05 September 06 September 06 September 06 September 12 September 21

Friday Saturday Friday

September 08 10am - 3pm September 23 10am - 2pm September 29 10am - 1pm

Wednesday Tuesday Wednesday Friday Saturday

September 06 September 19 September 20 September 22 September 23

Day

New South Wales / ACT The Lakes Golf Club * ** Friday Friday Elanora Country Club * ** Belmont Golf Club * Saturday Tuesday Thornleigh Golf Centre * The Ridge Driving Range * Wednesday Monday Tamworth Golf Club * Terrey Hills Golf & Country Club * ** Wednesday Drummond Golf - Casula * Friday Bayview GC * Friday Monday Killara GC * ** Mona Vale GC * Wednesday Bonnie Doon Golf Club * ** Wednesday Liverpool GC * Thursday Sharks Driving Range * Thursday Moore Park GC * Tuesday Everglades GC * Wednesday Drummond Golf - North Mead * Thursday Queensland Friday Nudgee Golf Club Tewantin Noosa Tuesday Willows Golf Resort * Wednesday Rowes Bay Golf Club * Thursday Cairns Golf Club * Friday Indooroopilly Golf Club Wednesday Headland Golf Club * Thursday Maroochy River * Friday Vic Park * Tuesday Oxley * Wednesday Emerald Lakes * Thursday Mt Warren Park * Friday Ballina * ** Thursday Tweed Heads * Friday Brisbane GC * Wednesday Friday Palm Meadows * Victoria Friday Rosanna GC * ** Rosanna GC * Saturday MGA Wednesday Werribee * Thursday National Golf Club (Cape Schanck) * Friday Northern GC * Saturday Morack GC * ** Wednesday Rossdale GC * ** Thursday Settlers Run GCC * ** Saturday Victoria GC * ** Thursday Western Australia Golfbox Booragoon * Friday Mt Lawley * Wednesday Golfbox Joondalup * Friday Mt Lawley * Saturday Golfbox Bunbury * Friday Pinjarra * Saturday South Australia HG Mildura * Thursday Tea Tree Gully GC * Thursday Alice Springs GC * Saturday Darwin GC * Sunday Flight Path GC * Sunday

10am - 2pm 8.30am - 5pm 8.30am - 5pm 4 - 7pm 8.30am - 5pm 10am - 1pm 10am - 4pm

10am - 1pm 9am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 9am - 2pm 9am - 1pm mizuno.com.au

Date Time

September 01 11am - 3pm September 01 9am - 2.30am September 02 10am - 2pm September 05 4 - 7pm September 06 4 - 7pm September 11 9am - 2.30am September 13 9am - 1pm September 15 4 - 7pm September 15 1 - 4pm September 18 1 - 4pm September 20 8 - 11am September 20 9am - 2.30pm September 21 9am - 1pm September 21 4 - 7pm September 26 4 - 7pm September 27 8 - 11am September 28 4 - 7pm September 15 September 19 September 20 September 21 September 22 September 27 September 28 September 29 September 05 September 06 September 07 September 08 September 21 September 22 September 27 September 29

12 - 4pm 9.30am - 1pm 1 - 5pm 9am - 12pm 1 - 5pm 9am - 1pm 10am - 2pm 1 - 4pm 12 - 4Pm 9.30Am - 1Pm 1 - 5Pm 9Am - 12Pm 1 - 5Pm 9Am - 1Pm 10Am - 2Pm 1 - 4pm

September 01 10am - 4pm September 02 8am - 4pm September 06 4 - 7pm September 07 12 - 4pm September 08 10am - 3pm September 09 10am - 3am September 13 4 - 7pm September 14 10am - 2pm September 16 10am - 2pm September 21 10am - 2pm September 01 9am - 4pm September 13 10am - 2pm September 15 9am - 4pm September 16 10am - 2pm September 22 9am - 4pm September 23 10am - 2pm September 07 September 14 September 23 September 24 September 24

2 - 7pm 9am - 3pm 9am - 3pm 9am - 1pm 2 - 7pm

September 2017

83

www.insidegolf.com.au

golf directory

HICKORY GOLF IRON CLEARANCE AUTHENTIC PLAYABLE CLUBS - LEFT AND RIGHT HAND

Your chance to own a piece of golfing history

$25 each

plus postage & packaging

From Tom Moore 52 Becky Ave, North Rocks, NSW 2151 | (02) 9871 2798

per person

$250

“you give up things when you buy a Kahma Golf Bag” • clanging clubs • damaged irons • worn graphite shafts • frustration finding the right iron From the inventors oF the CaddyraCk

GET ORGANISED WITH

$100 GolFErS DEAl • 2 nights accommodation • Free transfers from Coffs Harbour Airport • Free transfers to and from the golf course of your choice • 1 main meal per golfer • 1 complimentary schooner per golfer on arrival • Max 16 golfers

Patented Softgrip Technology

1300 738 557

www.kahmagolf.com

Clearwater Noosa 51-55 First Avenue Sawtell 2452 | 02 6653 1213 E: info@sawtellhotel.com | W: www.sawtellhotel.com

BEERWAH GOLF CLUB At the base of the beautiful Glasshouse Mountains…

• Timeless Tuesday - Unlimited* Golf for ONLY $25 • Golf Equipment for Hire & Sale • Fully Licensed Clubhouse • Social Clubs & Corporate Days • No JoiNiNg Fees

More social playing times now on a Monday & Thursday

Visitors pay only $25 to play in our competitions (Wed, Sat & Sun)

Biondi Crescent, Beerwah (only 20 minutes from the Coast) admin@beerwahgolfclub.com.au www.beerwahgolfclub.com.au

Ph: (07) 5494 0630 Golf Shop (07) 5494 6611

Your choice of resort and club courses.

• Noosa Springs • Twin Waters • Pelican Waters • Palmer Coolum • Mt Coolum • Noosa Golf Club • Maroochy River • Headland • Caloundra • Peregian Springs Some conditions apply

We offer a one stop shop for your Golf Vacation. No matter what size group, small or large, or your duration of stay we will tailor make your program to suit.

We will organise transfers, rental cars or vans and for larger groups buses.

Just a short iron to some of Noosa’s favourite restaurants and cafés.

September 2017

84

golf directory

www.insidegolf.com.au

GOLF CLOTHING FACTORY OUTLET

WINTER CLEARANCE NOW ON SOME CLOTHING ExCLUSIONS APPLY GOLf CLOTHING fACTORY OUTLET

NEW ARRIVALS

- Nancy Lopez - Jo fit - Greg Norman - Dwyers Shorts - Sporte

UP TO 70% Off RRP* Tops Brands include: Calvin Klein Golf – Green Lamb – Dwyers & Co Cross – Hollas – Greg Norman – Nancy Lopez Callaway – Travis Mathew & more With a large and changing range of Men’s & Women’s Golf Polos, Pants, Shorts, Skirts, Skorts, Capris, Knitwear, Wet Weather gear & accessories etc you are sure to find something to enhance your game!

INSTORE SHOPPING ONLY

TRUEMANS COTTAGES Mornington Peninsula In the heart of Mornington Peninsula golf country, 3 spacious self contained houses accommodating groups of 2-12 people with Foxtel, Wifi and BBQ areas. Golf Packages tailored to suit.

Stay 7 nights play 5 rounds

from

$675p/p

Choose from: The Dunes, Moonah Links, St Andrews, Portsea, Cape Schanck, Flinders, Sorrento or Rosebud CC.

Trading 7 days a week ~ Monday to Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-5pm, Closed Public Holidays

176 BOUNDARY ROAD, BRAESIDE VIC 3195 | (03) 9588 1779

www.golfclothingfactoryoutlet.com.au

QUALITY GOLF CLOTHING AT BARGAIN PRICES

P: (03) 5988 6540 | M: 0419 365 142 | www.truemanscottage.com.au

Read Inside Golf FREE on iPads

Aus trA liA’ s

4 NIGHTS ACCOM. 5 NIGHTS ACCOM.

$485

P/P Twin Share Conditions apply

4 Rounds of golf + Carts Breakfast each day FROM

FROM

3 Rounds of golf + Carts Breakfast each day

$555

P/P Twin Share Conditions apply

Plus, our unique Golf Map is updated each month with links to reviews and information about all courses featured in both the main magazine and Inside Golf Travel.

W

A Bu IN! Prsh oX2nell

the THE laSer lateSt GPS TEE ranGefi and hit thenderS to courSe

Sarah > MR AND Jane and MRS SMIT quiet achieverduane, H S on the tour are PGa > GYM reGiMeS tour Pro JUNKIES S’ doin G Mor fitneSS than e harM Goo d?

WIN!

VALUED AT

a Ya DR2 QUMIETaHa TEC

InsId e Carts Golf and reade are offer Yamaha Golf r amaz the Chan InG one luCkY InG Golf Ce to This fabulo Car of wIn an Your club and us prize verY comes own! with a of your ball washe golf car r, dress choice ! rims, and, bestbag cover, two Plus, we sand bottles of all, will even will be Simply throw , in the enter in a Yamah their colour buggy, they will details into a Golf the entry Bag to give win the bag! form, and if to a mate! you win the

$11,250

www.insi dego

To enT lf.com.a er viSi u/compe titionsT (entry closes Septem ber 30)

FREE

Download it today from the App store (search Inside Golf Magazine), or scan the QR Code. Alternately, get the link from our website or at http://goo.gl/ZAXaFD

Crossword Answers $50 per night including cooked breakfast (twin share) week days only ...minimum group of 10.

Rounds of golf not included

Play • Horizons • Kooindah Waters (Wyong) • Pacific Dunes • Cypress Lakes • Nelson Bay • Tanilba Bay • Hawks Nest • The Vintage • Newcastle • Muree Golf Club

*SPRING SPECIAL*

Other packages alsO available

• 3 Games Golf - Horizons, Nelson Bay and Tanilba Bay • 3 x $20 Dinner Vouchers • 3 Cooked Breakfasts • 3 Nights Accomodation (twin share) • Total Cost per person $300 (Arriving Sunday, Monday or Tuesday)

For reservations or additional information call Christine or Mike on

47 Meredith Ave, Lemon Tree Passage, NSW 2319

Phone (02) 4982 3300

www.lemontreemotel.com.au

Email: lemontreepassagemotel@idl.net.au

G O P L A C E S A D A P T S

O L F C L E U E T E R U T P P O I N S N R O L S E U S E C U E K A R T V W R O T E C I B T R E B

MAG Azin e

> TECH ON

> GOLF

Great TRAVEL LIFT Golf MorninG alonG-OUT canberr ton Peni the Souther a and the nSula, n hiGh land S

http://goo.gl/ZAXaFD

All golfers stay for

Gol f

THE A-Z OF

If you love your monthly fix of Inside Golf, but can’t always get your copy before they’re all snapped up, then we’ve got some great news: our new and improved Inside Golf Digital iPad app is now available on the App Store... and it’s absolutely FREE. Now, not only can you view current and back issues of your favourite golf magazine for free every month, but our new app includes the latest and breaking news across a variety of categories, tips and instruction, gear reviews, quizzes, puzzles, social media and more.

Mos t-R ead

Issue 146 // sePteM www.i Ber 2017 nsideG olf.co M.Au

U B M I G P S A O S U P E R S E E I C S T E E R A S T U H C H A N G E U B A R E X A N D O S L T O MW A T S A U N M T E D C H A E G E S D E A D S H

H T E D E T K E R E O S O

T R A N S M I T

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

Port Stephens Golfing Holidays Golf & Accommodation from only $70 per day

pp $215 From share n i tw week mid

9 16 Golf courses including Horizons, Nelson Bay, Newcastle, Muree, Tanilba, Cypress Lakes, Pacific Dunes, The Vintage, by boat to Hawks Nest & others 9 Play any day & with any number of people 9 Golf & accommodation from a choice of motels, hotels, units & resorts

www.facebook.com/golfpsgh

T: 02 4984 9618 | M: 0428 820 477 | info@psgh.com.au | www.psgh.com.au

Terry Price Golf Schools Join Terry Price For A Swing For A Lifetime Current Tour Player Terry Price invites you to a 1, 3 or 5 day golf school at the sensational Sanctuary Cove Golf & Country Club on the sunny Gold Coast.

Using his vast experience and state of the art TrackMan technology Terry will take your game to the next level with verified data showing an average of 30% improvement.

Perfect for golfers of all ages and standards.

Go to www.terrypricegolfschools.com.au or call Pete Nicholson (07) 3535 0610

85

golf directory

Benalla Golf Club

Three Day / Two Night Golf Package Includes: Unlimited golf, two nights accommodation, breakfast each morning, 2 x evening meals (vouchers up to the value of $20) • Fully Irrigated Greens & Fairways • Full Bar & Bistro Facilities • Abundant Wildlife including Kangaroos

www.benallagolfclub.com.au (03) 5762 1920 | benagolf@bigpond.net.au

golf directory

86

September 2017 www.insidegolf.com.au

InsideGolf

AustrAliA’s Most reAd Golf MAGAzine

If your golf club needs more copIes of AustrAlIA’s most reAd golf mAgAzIne then pleAse cAll InsIde golf on 1300 465 300 For nine and 18 holes - $18 weekdays - $22 weekends and public holidays*

ORANGE GOLF & STAY PACKAGE $255pp

www.insidegolf.com.au

IS YOUR GOLF CART SLOWING DOWN? OR WOULD YOU LIKE TO INCREASE THE LIFE OF YOUR BATTERIES?

Need new batteries?

Don’t replace them, restore them with the Battery Reviver > Cleans the damaging sulphure build up on the lead plates. > Restores the voltage of the batteries. > Restores the sulphuric acid strength. > Restores the performance of the batteries.

Want to triple the life of your good batteries?

Increase the life of your batteries by up to three times by eliminating the main reasons the batteries fail, SULPHATION. If you eliminate the main reason your batteries fail, it must 30 DAY increase the life of SATISFACTION your batteries.

Play a round at Duntryleague and Wentworth Courses and stay 2 nights.

Includes a golf cart, green fees and twin share accommodation.

MELVIEW GREENS Serviced Apartments

GUARANTEE OR YOUR MONEY BACK

119 Ploughmans Lane (Opposite Wentworth Golf Course) Orange NSW PH (02) 6362 0955 or 1800 603 191 EMAIL welcome@melviewgreens.com.au

www.melviewgreens.com.au

SINGLE LENGTH IRONS

PW - 4 iron stainless steel shafts $499 PW - 4 iron graphite shafts $549

NOW AVAILABLE IN AUSTRALIA Is this you?

• Wish all your irons were as easy to hit as your 7 iron?

• Despair when hitting longer irons?

• Frustrated with lack of consistency in your iron play?

• Longing for an easier way to play the game?

JOIN THE MOVE TO MILFORD SINGLE LENGTH IRONS

Benefits of Milford single-length irons?

• Simplicity • Comfort • Consistency • Confidence • Success • Enjoyment

ONE LENGTH HYBRIDS now available from $100

- all irons equal in length, weight and lie-angle - same set-up, stance, ball position and swing - single swing plane and tempo - through consistent ball striking The R&A has ruled - more accurate shots that these clubs - greater success = more enjoyment conform to the rules of golf IT’S TIME TO START ENJOYING YOUR GOLF MORE For more information on Milford single length irons, including pricing of additional L, S and A wedges, please contact Fred Stewart on 0412 563 977, at fred@milfordgolf.com.au or Milford Golf on Facebook.

SIMPLE SYSTEM THAT WORKS

For more information, pricing and to order Phone 1300 852 433 or visit our website Patent # 7374839

www.batteryreviver.com.au

GOLF FACTORY PENRITH

Easy to use model Forged Heads 6, 7, 8, 9, Pitching, Gap and Sand Wedges XP True Temper 95 R300 Regular Flex Shafts Wedge Lofts 45°, 50°, 55° Right or Left Hand

$599

Srixon Deluxe Cart Bag 2014 GREAT

14 Full Length Dividers QUALITY Full Length Rain Cover HUGE REDUCTION DUE TO SMALL SIZE PUTTER TUBE Black/White

$159

$229

Cooler Pocket

$38 Dozen

Srixon Z F45 Fairway 13º Low Loft $299 3 Wood Regular Flex Kurakage Shaft Also availble 15º - 3 and 17º - 4 Includes Cover

$189

Srixon Soft Feel Individually Boxed TaylorMade AeroBurner 3 Piece Tough Cover Pinnacle Gold Lady Individually Boxed Precept Laddie X Mens Individually Boxed

$18 DOZ $28 DOZ $24 DOZ $12 DOZ $15 DOZ

Titleist Pro VI (2015) or Pro VIX (2015) - instore only

$33 DOZ Dunlop Loco Distance Sleeves of 3 x 5 = 15 Balls for $13 Top Flite D2 Feel Sleeves of 3 x 24 = 72 Balls for $72 Callaway Hex Chrome - Yellow Urethane Cover $23 DOZ TaylorMade Tour Preferred or X (2016) Urethane $45 DOZ Callaway Super Soft Superceded Individually Boxed $26 DOZ Optima TS3 Green Box 3 Piece Individually $28 DOZ Optima HP Individually Boxed $18 DOZ Srixon Distance Individually Boxed $180 FOR 144 $69 FOR 3 DOZ Srixon Q-Star Individually Boxed Srixon Q-Star Individually Boxed $276 FOR 144 $204 FOR 144 TaylorMade Burner Soft Individually Boxed $156 FOR 144 Pinnacle Gold Mens Individually Boxed $28 DOZ Bridgestone E6 3 Piece Individually Boxed Nike Power Soft Distance Sleeves $27 DOZ Nike NDX Turbo Sleeves $45 FOR 3 DOZ

$33 DOZ Z-Star Yellow Superceded (2015) Gold Box Callaway Super Soft Superceded Individually $150 FOR 72 TaylorMade Project (a) Superceded Urethane

TaylorMade Cart Bag

Chippers (Approach Putters) $39

Black/Blue, Grey/Green, $199 Black/Red or Black/Charcoal 14 Dividers (Full Length) Oversize Putter Holder Cooler Pocket Current Model

Iron Covers - Eagles & Birdies Set of 9 - Black Fits Right/Left $35

Yellow Ball Sale

Ping G-Series

$151

(Urethane Cover)

Callaway Black Towel

Narellan Supa Centre, Narellan Rd

Srixon Glove Deals CABRETTA Leather

Mens Left S, M, M-L, L, XL Mens Right M, M-L Black Only Ladies Left S, M, L Ladies Right Black Only

Mens Left S, M, M-L, L, XL Mens Right S, M + XL Ladies Left Medium + Large Tour Quality White Only 3

White or Black 5 Left Hand FOR

$40

$19

TaylorMade White (2016) Adjustable M1 Cap

$20 Odyssey Jumbo Putter Grip $20 Callaway white Adjustable Visor $18

Great Prices Now Srixon Z-Star Just been replaced 3 Piece Tour Ball $33 Doz

by G-400 Callaway Hex Chrome Great Quality Ping 3 Piece Moderate Swing Speed $23 Doz Gear at Great Value!

FOR

$7 Postage Anywhere in Australia

(02) 4647 8542 - Mail Order - 7 Days

Optima Xtra Soft Feel Balls

All Weather

$42

XSF Model Individually Boxed Great for Ball Comps

$180 for 144 Individually Boxed Balls

Eagles & Birdies Stableford 3.5kg Srixon Z H45

Black/Grey, Black/Green, or Straight Black

Bag Raincovers, Zipper Top Easy Folding, Two Pockets Outside, Velcro Straps Supple Plastic Semi Clear $18 Black Rubber Backed Nylon $20

$25

12 Foot Ball Scoops

Putter Covers Leather Like Black with Velcro Closing 2 Ball Right Hand, Blade or Mallet Side Shaft $10 EA

$16

Hybrid (Right Hand)

$249

$189

14 Full Length Dividers Oversize Putter Hole Cooler Pocket

Calibre Golf

Ball Specials

Callaway Hex Diablo Superceded Sleeves

www.thegolffactory.com.au

Visa, Mastercard and American Express accepted $7 NSW, $9 VIC & QLD, $10 SA, TAS, NT & WA. Postage and handling any quantity

Srixon Z-Star or Z-Star XV Gold or Silver Box Urethane Cover Tour Ball 2015 White Balls MODEL

GOLF FACTORY NARELLAN

TO GOLF & COUNTRY CLUBS

269 High St, Penrith (near Officeworks) (02) 4722 8640 - Mail Order - 6 ½ Days info@penrithgolffactory.com.au Callaway Apex Irons (7)

ACCOUNTS AVAILABLE

(2016 Model)

Regular or Stiff Flex $269 16º - 2 19º - 3 22º - 4 Kurokage Includes Cover Shaft

Ping G30 Driver Sale

Long Iron Sale

Heads Right Hand 9°, 10.5° & 12° Draw (SFT) Shafts - Regular, Stiff, Ladies & Soft Regular (Seniors)

TaylorMade RSI 1 Stiff 3 39.5” 17° Loft Callaway Apex Utility Stiff 39” 24° Loft Callaway XR Pro Stiff 3

$139

$499

$349

Left Hand 9° Includes Cover Regular & Wrench or Stiff Only

Callaway Super Soft Pink Balls

38¾” 19° Loft

$109 $99 $89

Cleveland 588MT 3 Regular Graphite

$45

40” 19° Loft

Cleveland 588 Altitude

Iron Covers Neoprene, Small Face Type, Black Set of 10 $19

Suitable for Men or Ladies Low Compression Durable Cover Superceded Model $30

DOZEN

Hybrid/Irons (not Hybrids) Regular Flex $79 Graphite Shafts 3 - 19º Loft 4 - 21º Loft Right Hand EACH Only

6 Dozen Lady Pinnacle (Superceded)

Callaway Hex Diablo Balls

Callaway Hybrids XR - 2015

Soft Feel Durable Cover Sleeves (not individual)

5 - 25º Regular 3 - 19º Regular

Hybrid Black Cover Large or Small

$10 EA

White Balls Individually Boxed Great for Ball Competitions

$66

FOR 72 BALLS

Tour Velvet Cord Golf Pride Grip Mens Standard Thickness White Only Full Cord

$8 Fitted

$50 FOR 10

$19

$18 $189 Dozen

$115

BRAND NEW

FOR 48 BALLS

White or Yellow Balls

Includes Cover

Srixon Z545 Driver

Kurokage 60grm Regular or Stiff Shaft 10.5º Loft Adjustable Includes Cover & Wrench

$259

Callaway Big Bertha Fairway 5 Wood 18º Loft Regular Flex Fubuki Shaft Fully Adjustable Includes Cover +Wrench Also Ladies 5

$269

$149

Srixon Deluxe Cart Bag 2016 14 Full Length Dividers Oversize Putter Holder Waterproof Bag Coverall Cooler Pocket

Srixon Distance Balls

Black/Blue, Navy/White

$259

$199 2017 Model

$180 for 144 Individually Boxed Balls

$16 DOZEN

Sand Wedge Sale Callaway Graphite TaylorMade X-Hot N14 54° $39 Burner Soft Balls Callaway XR Irons Cleveland 588TT 55° Graphite $39

$17

Individually Boxed Doz

New Loose (not boxed) Junior Grips Great for cut down clubs Callaway Chrome Black/Brown Soft Superceded (2015) Black/Blue Urethane Cover Normally Red Box

$39

Dozen

Black/Silver 10 grips for

$25

Callaway XR 54° Graphite Mens or Ladies $49EA Cleveland RTX 2.0 56° -14 Bounce Tour Satin Wedge Flex $69 TaylorMade left Hand ATV 56° Original Model $50 Bridgestone 56° Wedge Flex $69

Regular Flex Right Only 4 - SW (8) 2015 Model

$778

Left Hand 5 - PW (6)

$569

Left Hand Only Specials

Callaway XR Irons 4 - SW (8) Regular Steel $649 SET

Cleveland RTX 2.0 Wedges 46°, 48°, 50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58°, 60° & 64° All Matching Tour Satin $59 EA Ping G30 Fairway 18° Regular or 14.5° Stiff + Cover $149 EA Callaway XR Irons 5 - PW (6) Regular Flex Graphite $569 SET Ping G30 Hybrid 3 19° Regular or Stiff + Cover $129 Ping Putter Nome TR Straight (Face Balanced) + Cover $149

CALLAWAYGOLF.COM.AU