Issue 66 Inside Golf Jan 2011 by Inside Golf

PUTTING PRIMER:

SEEING RED

• Choosing the right putter • Which grip is best for you? • Tips and drills

We tackle the new Kalgoorlie Golf Course

PLUS:

INTERVIEWS

• The latest flatsticks to hit the market

How Andrew Dodt is grooving his game

The countdown begins! The Presidents Cup 2011

Norman and Couples prepare for battle

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U S T R A L I A

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O L F

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Editor: Richard Fellner P: 0407 000 440 richard@insidegolf.com.au Senior Writer: David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au Contributing Editors: Larry Canning, Mike Orloff, Rob Willis, Ross Perrett, Peter Croker, Richard Nizielski, Greg Dowling, Kurt Stegbauer, Mark Victorsen, Scott Simons, Lisa Newling, Lorraine Lambert, Brent German, Anthony Powter, David Williams Design & Layout: Nick Thorn National Sales & Marketing Director: Sam Arthur P: 1300 4653 00 | F: (07) 5535 4922 M: 0410 575 303 sam@insidegolf.com.au NSW Sales: Scott Barsby M: 0424 779 199 | E: scott@insidegolf.com.au Qld Sales: David Ross M: 0439 612 458 | E: dg.ross@live.com.au Accounts: Sheridan Murphy M: 0404 075 823 | accounts@insidegolf.com.au Publisher: Outdoor Sports Publishing Pty Ltd PO BOX 437, Miami, QLD 4220

Contents may not be reproduced without written permission. Views expressed in editorial contributions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper and its management.

Cover photos © Anthony Powter It’s official: 37,100 Inside Golf Magazines distributed each month for the period: April 10 - September10

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inthisissue

OntheCover

12 The Presidents Cup 2011 The countdown begins! 14 Andrew Dodt: Three years wiser and better 36 Inside Golf 2011 putting primer 42 Fabulous flatsticks 52 Seeing Red: We tackle the new Kalgoorlie Golf Course

Features

18 Tassie grassroots golf the winner 20 Frances Bondad dances to own tune 28 Bringing country kids 2 the city 30 Golfing beauty is in the eye of the beholder 32 Buying from a proshop 54 Travel: Thailand 56 Getting more people to play more golf

Regulars

7 Chips & Shanks 13 In brief 16 Industry news 24 Events 26 Results from around the world 34 New products 46 Junior golf 47 PGA IGI

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48 Golf tips 50 Health & fitness 55 Inside architecture - Future planning 58 Teeing off - Ian Curley 59 Golf Legends - Bill Rogers 60 Last Word 61 The 19th hole 62 Golf Directory 64 Demo dates

January 2011

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And the winner is…

Jeff Cutler wrote to you on the things he hates about the new handicapping system. I have a completely different view from Jeff. For me, the great advantage of the new system is that it pretty accurately reflects the golfer’s true ability, as indicated by performance over the last 20 rounds. Under the old system, one good (but out-of-character) round could protect a handicap for weeks or even months. Under the new system, it is much easier for handicaps to rise quickly since the 0.1 limit per round no longer applies. At the same time, because of the averaging process it is much harder to reduce your handicap significantly. It is virtually impossible to bring a handicap down by 2 or 3 in one round, which was perfectly possible under the previous system.

Pass the cash

Recently Robert Allenby said that Australian golf and governments should do all they can and spend as much as it takes to get Tiger and his rich mates to play the tournament which will precede the Presidents Cup. It would not be too much to expect that these multi-millionaires spent some “petty cash” and played because THEY wanted to acclimatise themselves to our conditions. Australia has neither the economy nor the rich companies to spend money on golf as they do in America. Considering Robert Allenby would rather go to South Africa where he only has to beat 11 other players instead of playing his national Open who cares about his opinion? You don’t really have to pay Americans to teach us how to win - just have an injection of confidence and actually think you can win - JUST LIKE TIGER! Michael Mead, via our website

Warning...on the Horizons

Upon a recent visit to the Horizons Golf Resort at Salamander Bay in NSW, I felt it useful to give golfers a warning that what you see on the website is not what is offered, in fact far from it. The place is in receivership and is worth checking out before you sign into the Stay and Play package and get

The overall effect of the change is felt most fully by golfers (like myself) whose form is extremely variable. I believe that, under the old system, many handicaps were artificially low and it seems that low handicappers are the ones whose handicaps have changed very little. So, contrary to what Jeff says, I believe the new system advantages, rather than disadvantages, low handicappers. There has certainly been a widespread upward shift in handicaps (I calculate that mine is about 3 higher than it would have been had the old system still applied). This has meant that a

lot of B graders have moved into C grade, making it much more difficult for previous C graders to win anything. However, this problem is easily addressed (as my club Mona Vale is doing) by raising the handicap cut-off between B and C grades, and maybe even by splitting C grade into two. I believe the new system is a great improvement because handicaps are now a much better indication of the golfer’s true ability. Nearly all the golfers I have spoken to agree with this view. David Collins Mona Vale GC

Letters of the month something to say? Then tell us! Write to us via email at LettersHave of you thegot month ed@insidegolf.com.au or mail a letter to: The Editor, Inside Golf, Have you got something to say? Then tell us! Write to us via email at PO Box 360 Nunawading, Vic 3131. Tell an interesting story or ed@insidegolf.com.au or mail a letter to: The Editor, Inside Golf, PO Box 360 something funny about golf and you could WIN a Nunawading, Vic 3131. Tell an interesting story or something funny about Smoothy Compact buggy valued at RRP$230! golf and you could WIN a Smoothy Compact buggy valued at RRP$230!

disappointed by the sub-standard accommodation and course/facilities that really need some TLC not to mention some serious injection of funding. Hopefully an owner will buy it and return it to its apparent former glory. (name withheld by reader’s request) Ed note: Thanks for the heads up. If you’re like many of us “golf tragics”, you rock up to a course brimming with excitement and anticipation about what lay ahead for the day’s round – and there’s nothing worse than to be severely disappointed in the facility before you even tee off. We’ve received other complaints about Horizons, and we can only hope for a speedy recovery and/or new ownership

Lightning strikes I know I’m dobbing on a mate .... but this amazing feat needs to be acknowledged. An Apollo Bay golfer wishes he’d stayed in his Bistro recently after recording a rare feat on the first hole at his home course. Geoff stood on the tee of the short par 3 with the full knowledge that he had once recorded 30 on the hole after spending considerable time in the bunker (one shot in; 28 to get out; one putt). On that historic day he redeemed himself by birdieing the same hole on the second lap of the 9- hole course.

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Two years later, Geoff managed to repeat his 30 hits on this hole after an equally determined display to defeat the now re-sanded bunker (2 to get in; 26 to get out; 2 putts). On the second lap of the course, history again repeated itself with Geoff casually knocking it on the green and holing the putt! The 18 handicapper has written himself into local golfing folklore. Murray McCoombe, via email

More on handicaps

I’ve noticed some “quirks” with the new handicap system. Firstly I’m not sure it suits the Australian golfing scene. We tend to play in more comps than Americans do, so the changes that vary with the new system happen quicker than they would in the US. I think the US tend to play more social than Comp. It could take years for a US golfer’s handicap to change as rapidly as ours does. For example, there are instances where I have played better than my handicap and I gain a stroke. Conversely, I played worse than handicap and lost a shot. Secondly, there are issues with the NCR and Disq cards that come in throughout a round. If you stop playing during the round due to weather, golfers will NCR themselves. It is recorded in

the System as a score, and gives you a score equal to your worst round. Seems a bit unfair. Thirdly, most club members are dropping back in their handicaps because of the new system. i.e. the 3,4,5,6 markers are becoming 8,9,10,11 markers. The 8,9,10,11 are becoming 12,13,14 and 15 markers and so on. We have no A-grade Ladies pennant team at our club now, because they have dropped back to B Grade. Michael Mulvaney

Name dropping

Just reading the December copy of Inside Golf and was amazed when reading your article “What’s in a name?” - how could you list all these names and leave out the one name of the man who has won the Australian Open seven times – Gary Player. You also failed to mention Aaron Baddeley who won the Australian Open at Royal Sydney Golf Club as an amateur and then returned the following year and won it again as a professional (that gives him 2 wins). When he won it as an amateur, Colin Montgomery was a ‘smiling’ second place - he got the money if not the title. Evelyn F, via email Ed note: Thanks Evelyn, though the point of the lighthearted article was identifying different winners who share the same first name, not multiple wins by a single person. Otherwise, the article would have been filled with first names like Ivo, Ossie, Norman (Von Nida) and Carnegie. So for the time being, Gary will stand alone on the list (albeit a remarkable seven times!)

Winners The winners of the Radisson Family Holiday are: Jackie and Matthew Barton, South Penrith Congratulations and enjoy your holiday!

Keep up with us online! Read the entire issue of Inside Golf online: www.insidegolf-digital.com/insidegolf/ current. Join our Facebook group at www.facebook.com/insidegolf, keep up to the minute with our Twitter feed (@InsideGolf) or if you prefer - drop us a line at ed@insidegolf.com.au PUTTING PRIMER:

• Choosing the right putter • Which grip is best for you? • Tips and drills

SEEING RED

We tackle the new Kalgoorlie Golf Course

PLUS:

• The latest flatsticks to hit the market

INTERVIEWS

How Andrew Dodt is grooving his game

The countdown begins! THE PRESIDENTS CUP 2011

NORMAN AND COUPLES

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Young Jake on cloud nine DavidNewbery Jake McLeod, a 16-year-old parbreaker, scored plenty of birdies at Keperra Country Golf Club in Brisbane to easily win the 54-hole Queensland Schoolboys Championship. McLeod, who represents Hills International, took command of the tournament from the opening round and was never threatened. The scratch golfer carded rounds of 67-72-68 for a nine-under par total of 207 to finish five strokes clear of Antcliff Maverick (69-74-69). Pacific Golf Club’s Blake Proverbs, who won the 14 years and under division, finished third overall with rounds of 70-72-73. McLeod, who was born in Victoria, hails from Townsville but attends boarding school at Hills International near Brisbane. He has been playing golf for six years. “I like going to boarding school because you get a lot of time to practise and train with coaches Ken Berndt and Jim Duncan and you get to see your golfing mates all the time,” he said. McLeod has developed a liking for the tournament. Last year he won the 15 years age division at Nudgee Golf Club. “This is the biggest tournament I have won so far,” said the Geoff Ogilvy fan.

Daly attracts non-golfers

Jake McLeod was a model of consistency en route to winning the Queensland Schoolboys Championship “One day I want to be a touring professional on the PGA Tour, but I know I am going to have to work hard to achieve my goal.” McLeod is a strong driver of the golf ball and also possesses a sound short game. “Keperra is a great golf course – it’s a good layout and the greens are great,” he said. Meanwhile, Teremoana Beaucousin captured the 15 years age division. For a full list of the results, go to www.golfqueensland.org.au

IT seems John Daly’s zany outfits are attracting golfers and non-golfers alike. A Queensland Sunshine Coast nongolfing lady followed the two-time major winner during the Australian PGA Championship pro-am at Hyatt Regency Coolum. “I just love the pants he’s wearing,” she said of his gambler themed black trousers, which displayed poker playing cards. “I don’t play golf, but I saw John Daly in his fancy gear on television recently and thought I would come out and see what he’s wearing this week.” When told Daly’s Loudmouth clothing range could be purchased at Coolum she said, “I’m a dressmaker so I’m going to make my own”. She was last seen taking photographs of Daly as he was disappearing down the 10th fairway.

No bus for Big John

SPEAKING of Daly, the popular American will divide his time between the US and European Tours in 2011.

chips&shanksQLD

While he travels in comfort in his own coach in the US, he won’t be taking it to Europe. “My bus won’t fit on the roads over there,” he said. “Trying to weasel in and out of those small towns I would be getting pulled over all the time. “If you do get a ticket, where the hell do you pull over? You just stop on the road because there is nowhere to pull over.” In 2009, Daly got his bus stuck in a tunnel in Alabama.

Ogilvy cut short

AUSTRALIAN Open champion Geoff Ogilvy was midway through his victory speech at The Lakes Golf Club in Sydney when Channel 10 cut him short and crossed to Ian Baker-Finch for a comment. Perhaps they thought viewers would become bored listening to the praise he was heaping on Golf Australia, who run the tournament, and the tournament sponsor Century 21. As Derryn Hinch would say, “shame, shame, shame.”

Let managers manage

GOLF clubs that have a revolving door of general managers only have themselves to blame, according to recently retired Oxley Golf Club general manager Don Gregory. “I think you need your committee to allow you to operate independently without being told what to do all the time,” he said. “I haven’t had presidents or treasurers sit on my shoulder, which can happen at some clubs and that makes it pretty hard for a manager to operate.

“It’s like being at school and having the teacher reprimanding you all the time you make a move. “That’s why some clubs keep searching for new managers.”

Vale Brian Oberman

QUEENSLAND golf has lost another stalwart with the death of the Gold Coast’s Brian Oberman. His sudden death last month came as a shock to the Gold Coast District Association – an organisation he served for more than 30 years. He was president for 11 of those years. Oberman served as a Queensland Golf Union (QGU) delegate for 20 years and was team manager for the Queensland men’s state team and a selector for 10 years. The Southport Golf Club member served on the board and as club captain. He was made a life member of the club last November – 12 years after being awarded life membership of the GCDGA.

Quote/Unquote

The point is that it doesn’t matter if you look like a beast before or after the hit, as long as you look like a beauty at the moment of impact. – Seve Ballesteros, five time major champion

David Newbery

david@insidegolf.com.au

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Lawson and Brent capture 2010 Dunes Medal

Mens winner Deyan Lawson (VIC) and Womens winner Adriana Brent (NSW) pose with Duncan Andrews (owner of The Dunes). (Photo taken by Barry Mills) Victorian Deyen Lawson capped a stellar week of golf by claiming victory in The 2010 Dunes Medal last month. After shooting a third round 64 to lead by 5 strokes overnight, Lawson held off New South Welshman Matthew Stieger and fast-finishing Victorian Daniel Valente. Lawson, from The Sands GC, finished with 278 (-10) for the tournament, three strokes clear of Stieger with Valente a further six strokes back. In the Womens event, Adriana Brent from New South Wales overcame Queenslander Ashley Ona in a playoff after both finished on 5 over for the week,

in typically tough Dunes conditions. Yarrawonga’s Breanna Elliott came third with an 11-over total. The Dunes also recently awarded trophies to the new Junior Champions for 2010. Awards were presented to Junior Club Champion Dillon Hobbs, Match Play Champion Jason O’Keeffe, Junior Putting Champion Ryan Girardin, Junior Club Champion (Nett) Josh Stephens and Etiquette Award winner Andrew Mills. This competition is held every Saturday morning and new players are always welcome. For all enquiries please contact The Dunes on 03 5985 1334.

Juniors shine at The Heritage

players in the field, which included international players Glen James de Waal and Douglas Roux-Jeffery, both from Windhoek, Namibia. Bianca returned a score of 78 to pip Kirsty Hodgkins from Heidelberg by a shot, while Sean carded a 2-under-par 70 to finish 3 clear of James Bannan (Rosanna GC) and Mitch Sheather (Long Island CC).

Kingswood members Bianca Ling and Sean Ong took home the hardware at the recent Stuart Appleby Junior Golf ’s 7th staging of their Signature Tournament. The event, played on the St Johns course at The Heritage Golf and Country Club, brought a stern test to the 96

Lyle books PGA Tour return

Jarrod Lyle was the lone Australian to successfully negotiate the final stage of the US PGA Tour Qualifying school, with the burly Victorian finishing fifth to safely win his way back to the ‘big show’ for 2011. Lyle’s tournament total of 15-under par in the 108-hole, six-round event, was three shots behind the winner, veteran American Billy Mayfair. Not so fortunate were the other 17 Australians, with Gavin Coles, Matt Goggin and Luke Hickmott coming closest to the top 25 and therefore a US PGA Tour card, with the trio tied for 36th on 7-under par, two shots shy of the cut off mark. The news was also not good for the likes of Cameron Percy, James Nitties, Mark Hensby and most significantly Peter Lonard, with all now resigned to spending 2011 on the US Nationwide Tour. Percy however, like Aron Price, will have conditional status on the US Tour courtesy of finishing inside the top 150 in 2010 and will gain limited starts next season.

St Andrews Beach offering lessons, Womens clinics St Andrews Beach Golf Course now has a resident teaching professional. PGA Member Rob Williamson has joined the team, and will be conducting lessons on the St Andrews Beach Driving range area. Private lessons start at just $49 for 30 minutes, with 60-minute or package deals also available. The course is also offering a Women’s Clinic in January. The January 5th session will focus on Irons, January 12th will include Short Game instruction while January 19th will look at Woods. Cost per person for the 3-week course is $60.00, maximum number of ladies in each session is 6. To book into the womens’ clinic or find out more information on the lessons, contact the golf shop on 03 5988 6000 or email Rob: firsttee@bigpond.com

Tasmania

Premier David Bartlett officially opens Barnbougle Lost Farm

Richard Sattler with Lost Farm designer Bill Coore and Bandon Dunes owner Mike Keiser

Last month, Tasmania Premier David Bartlett joined landowner Richard Sattler, course designer Bill Coore and Barnbougle Dunes designers Tom Doak and Mike Clayton at the official opening of the 20–hole Barnbougle Lost Farm course in Tasmania’s North East. Bartlett said the Tasmanian Government were pleased to be involved with Sattler in the Lost Farm development and were excited about the tourism prospects the new course and supporting infrastructure would have for the state.

“Barnbougle Dunes and now Lost Farm are world class attractions that are providing important employment opportunities for the local community and unique experiences for interstate and international visitors. This is an example of Tasmanian innovation and ingenuity working in perfect tandem with our spectacular environment to create something that is truly unique,” Bartlett said. In addition to the 20-hole golf course, the Lost Farm development includes a new 300 sq m dunetop restaurant, 30 room lodge and Health Spa.

13th Beach membership growing

The club’s two courses have enjoyed improved rankings over the past year, with the recent Slope ratings system rating the Beach Course as the third most difficult in Victoria behind the National Golf Club’s Old and Moonah courses.

Membership at 13th Beach increased 10 per cent last financial year, defying national trends of a three per cent decline in golf clubs. The course has been investing in improving their dining facilities and cart paths, while a redevelopment of the par-3 12th hole on the Creek Course is scheduled to open this month.

Richard Fellner ed@insidegolf.com.au

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O’Malley returns to the winner’s circle

Although approaching veteran status, Peter O’Malley showed he has plenty of good golf left in him with a tense playoff victory at the NSW Open hosted by Nathan Green. Played at the Greg Norman-designed Vintage course in the Hunter Valley, O’Malley stumbled somewhat on the final day with a 1-over par 72, but after finishing level on 14-under par with 19-year-old British amateur Tom Lewis and South Australian Peter Cooke, the former Bathurst resident would go on to record his first tournament triumph since the 2005 NZ PGA Championship.

O’Malley secured the win on the third extra hole when Lewis made a bogey on the uphill par-four 18th, with Cooke eliminated one hole prior. “I made harder work of it than I expected but I played pretty good golf all week,” O’Malley said. Tournament host Green was in contention going into the final round before a closing 75 saw him slip back into a tie for 15th place on a total of 6-under par. O’Malley is said to be looking to concentrate his efforts on the OneAsia Tour in 2011.

Cooke gets a glimpse at golfing history While Peter O’Malley took home the major prize at the NSW Open, young South Australian Peter Cooke had a week he will certainly remember. Cooke was beaten in a playoff for the NSW Open title but it was during Thursday’s first round when he created headlines after threatening to create some Australasian Tour history. Standing 11-under par for the round on his final hole, the par-four ninth, Cooke struck his second shot to the fringe of the green, giving himself a putt, albeit a lengthy one, at the magical 59. Not shying away from the challenge Cooke raced his putt past the hole but after missing his return putt and had to settle for a 10-under par 61. Despite the final hole slip-up, Cooke had no regrets. “I gave a good run at 59, it burned the edge, then I just misread the one coming back,” Cooke said of his shot at golfing immortality. His 61 featured seven birdies and two eagles and included a stretch where Cooke made five birdies and an eagle from the second to seventh holes. 

Coaching guru’s dream round drowned Phil Gould, former NSW State of Origin coach and now Channel Nine rugby league commentator, was left disappointed when the pro-am for the Australian Open at The Lakes was

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washed out due to excessive amounts of rain that fell on the Tuesday and Wednesday prior to the tournament. A single-figure handicap golfer, Gould’s frustration was heightened by the fact he was drawn to play alongside one his sporting idols in Greg Norman. “When I saw the rain coming down I was just so shattered,” Gould told the Sun Herald’s Danny Weidler. “I practised for a thousand hours to make sure I was ready and let me tell you, the Shark was in danger......no really, I was just so disappointed.” Spies around the Sutherland Shire can confirm he was indeed working hard on his game, with Gould spotted hitting a super-sized bucket of balls at The Ridge driving range the day before his proposed meeting with Norman.

Gold Coast schoolgirl comes good Korean Amy Yang, a high school student on Queensland’s Gold Coast when she won the 2006 Australian Ladies Masters as an amateur, continues to make in-roads on the professional scene. Leading after three rounds of the US LPGA Tour’s final event of 2010, the Tour Championship, Yang was ultimately overtaken by Maria Hjorth and relegated to second position. The performance however capped a consistent, if winless year for Yang, one in which she enjoyed top five finishes at both the Women’s US and British Opens.

Yang ended 2010 in ninth place on the LPGA Tour moneylist. Katherine Hull, who was tied for 11th at the Tour Championship, played at the Grand Cypress Golf Club in Orlando, and was the leading Australian on the LPGA Tour in 13th spot.

Camden’s special membership ‘drive’ The Camden Golf Club in Sydney’s south west came up with a novel way of attracting new members for 2011. As a part of its membership initiative Camden gave away a new $15,000 Holden Barina Spark, courtesy of Camden Holden, in a promotion designed to entice members to sign up. T h e Ma c a r t hu r C h ron i c l e newspaper reported that the bright red Holden was to be won, with a member’s name drawn to win a key every Wednesday for 10 weeks. A final draw was to be held at the “Christmas on the Green” event on Sunday, December 19, with another 10 members chosen on that day. One of the 20 keys won would start the car and allow the lucky member to take home a new Holden. For those in the vicinity of Camden Golf Club, the winner was the smiling golfer in the shiny red car.

Rob Willis ed@insidegolf.com.au

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New Wembley driving range in full swing

South Australia Sherratt shines at Open

Joondalup apprentice chef wins gold

Nick O’Hern tees off at Wembley’s new The Swing Driving Range After many years of planning, and a massive 18 months of construction, the state-of-theart The Swing Driving Range at Wembley Golf Course has finally opened. PGA professional Nick O’Hern was on hand for the launch, joining Town of Cambridge CEO Jason Buckley, Mayor Simon Withers and a host of VIPs and invited guests. With the Perth skyline as a backdrop, O’Hern and guests belted the first balls from the new $9million facility. Recognised as the busiest golf course in Australia — with approximately 170,000 rounds of golf played each year — Wembley’s original driving range saw approximately 4.5 million golf balls hit last year. The new range, which features fully-automated ball loading, is on

track to meet objectives of 8 million balls hit per annum (around 22,000 per day). It is also considered the largest driving range in Australia. The total cost of the new works totalled $13 million with $9 million for the driving range and almost $1.6 million for the automation system. The completed facility now features a new 80 bay fully-automated driving range (teeing up a ball every 6 seconds), dedicated teaching bays, computer bays/access, a separate teaching room, new buggy shed for 80 golf carts and golf related tenancy space, a function room that can be hired for corporate training and events, new short game practice area for putting and chipping, a new golf shop, Piazza and car park upgrade.

20-year-old apprentice chef Caitlin Ellingson added another notch to Joondalup Resort’s culinary belt, taking the 2010 WA Apprentice Chef of the Year. The award, presented by the Australian Culinary Federation (ACF), is the most anticipated in the professional career of an Apprentice Chef. Caitlin also shows some talent on the golf course, as she took out longest drive and nearest the pin in a recent staff golf day at Joondalup Resort. Caitlin is fairly new to golf (originally thinking it is was something ‘the oldies’ played), but we’re told she has now caught the bug and is playing as much as she can, taking advantage of working on one of Australia’s finest resort golf courses. Joondalup’s kitchen excelled last year with Bistro 38 taking a Golf Plate award for Excellence in Health, while apprentices Amy Hillen, Wanda Van Vuuren and Jack Mullen all also received ACF medals. The Australian Culinary Federation is a national organisation representing professional cooks, chefs and apprentices. Its purpose is to advise in the establishment of standards and to provide a network for chefs and other culinary workers to share ideas and social events. The Australian Culinary Federation is one of 72 member nations belonging to the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS).

Hope Island Resort 6184 Bolsena Circuit

Junior holiday clinic

Registration is now open for Golf South Australia’s Junior Holiday Clinics. The clinics for both boys and girls will be held from Jan 17 – 20 (Mon-Thu) at North Adelaide Golf Links. The program includes 2 hours’ rotation through coaching stations on Monday through Wednesday (8.45 am–11:00 am), while on Thursday (8:45 am–2:00) students will take part in a “Play Day” (number of holes may vary depending on ability.) More info: www.golfsa.com.au

Richard Fellner ed@insidegolf.com.au

Sale

Luxury waterfront in a golfer’s paradise Glorious scenic views, a peaceful environment and 24-hour manned security all add up to an idyllic lifestyle within “The Lakes” gated community at Hope Island. For golfers this address would be close to paradise, with one of the region’s finest championship courses and its grand clubhouse only a minute’s golf buggy ride from home. Around two years old, the two-level contemporary design features polished timber floors throughout the ground level, a private lap pool off the atrium dining area and 4 queen bedrooms plus a study. An ultra-spacious retreat adjoins the upstairs master suite while expansive outdoor living can be enjoyed on both levels.

Former South Australian state representative Jordan Sherratt has enhanced his growing reputation as a player to watch for the future following a brilliant T4 placing at the Australian Open in Sydney. In only his fifth professional tournament since turning professional at the Western Australian Open in October, Sherratt carded a final round 5-under par 67 to finish the tournament at 12-under par. Sherratt registered six birdies against a solitary bogey to show up many of his vastly more experienced contemporaries around The Lakes layout which again proved conducive to low scoring. Of the other South Australian players to make the cut at the tournament, Adam Bland faded on the final day with a 2-over par 74 to finish on 2-under and in a tie for 37th position, while Peter Cooke carded a final round 71 to finish at 2-over par and in a tie for 52nd.

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When we told Peter Thomson, five-time British Open winner, that we’d like a rather special course here on Hamilton Island, he smiled and said “I’ll design you a course that’s as dramatic and breathtaking as the outlook it enjoys”. And he succeeded. From the challenging fairways to a clubhouse with 5-star cuisine, the golf here is already legendary. But that’s just the tee off. Next come the local beaches and waterways, offering some of the world’s best sailing, diving, fishing and kayaking. And then there’s the huge range of hotels including the award-winning qualia resort as well as a choice of fine dining restaurants – along with some exclusive real estate that’s really worth owning. With just a short 2 or 3 hour direct flight from most mainland Australian cities, arriving here is easy. Call us now on 137 333 or visit hamiltonisland.com.au

G O L F • S A I L • D I V E • E X P L O R E • R E L A X • L I V E

January 2011

12 coverstory............................................................................................................................................................................................................ www.insidegolf.com.au

The countdown begins! RichardFellner 2011 is here! And with the New Year comes arguably one of the most exciting events to hit our shores in recent memory: The Presidents Cup; the biennial “US vs The Internationals” team matchplay event which returns to Royal Melbourne on November 17. Imagine: the world’s best players descending upon one of the world’s best courses to contest one of the world’s most thrilling matchplay events. It will be epic. The countdown to the event officially kicked off a month ago, as team captains Fred Couples and Greg Norman surveyed the course and announced their selections for Captains Assistants. Couples, who will captain the US Team, named Jay Haas and Michael Jordan as his Captain’s Assistants. Haas, a nine-time winner on the PGA TOUR and a 14-time winner on the Champions Tour, represented the US in The Presidents Cup in 1994 and 2003. Jordan, who was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009, owns six NBA Championship titles, five MVP awards, six NBA Finals MVP awards and numerous NBA scoring records. “Jay and Michael were instrumental in the U.S. Team’s success in 2009, and I knew as soon as I was asked to be captain again that I would need them both by my side to keep things running smoothly and ensure we have the best chance at retaining the Cup,” said Couples. Norman, meanwhile, named Frank Nobilo as one of his two Captain’s Assistants for the International Team, with the second person to be named later. Nobilo, a veteran of several professional golf tours worldwide, competed in The Presidents Cup in 1994, 1996 and 1998.

Couples and Norman survey the 16th hole – where many of the match play events may be decided

The Presidents Cup layout will feature a slightly altered configuration of the Royal Melbourne Composite course

“Frank has been a friend for so many years, and he was my right-hand man for the 2009 event. I couldn’t have done it without him and I wouldn’t want to do it again if he wasn’t one of my two assistants,” Norman said. While the teams haven’t been decided yet, it’s probable that players like Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, Jim Furyk, Ernie Els and Retief Goosen will take to the links, while Australia’s Robert Allenby and Adam Scott may even get a start. Selection for the Presidents Cup is straightforward: The US Team will select ten members based on official earnings from the 2009 Wyndham Championship through the 2011 PGA Championship (with money earned in 2011 counting as double). For the International Team, ten players will be chosen on the basis of the Official World Golf Ranking through the 2011 PGA Championship. In addition, each team will have two Captain’s Selections.

Cup. So you know they have a bit more stimulus to go out and win the Presidents Cup,” Norman said. Either way, both Captains agreed that Royal Melbourne will provide a fitting venue for a tournament of this calibre. “From a sportsperson’s point of view, there’s no better place to play than in Melbourne,’’ Norman said. Couples echoed Norman’s sentiment wholeheartedly. “This is a world-class course. It’s in the top three of my all-time favourites with St. Andrews and Augusta, but we have a lot of work. We didn’t even make a match of it in 1998, so this time as a captain it will be my job to ensure everyone is ready,’’ Couples said. Inside Golf had the pleasure of playing the Presidents Cup layout at Royal Melbourne, and we were impressed with the condition. The fairways and greens– which had suffered severely in recent years due to drought – are now in fantastic form, benefitting from a total resurfacing

For Norman, playing at Royal Melbourne represents a chance to summon a bit of “History repeating itself ”, as the International Team have only won the Presidents Cup on one occasion: at Royal Melbourne in 1998. And while the American team’s record is 5-1-1 since the competition began in 1994, Norman believes that local knowledge will give his side an edge. “It’s a huge advantage. Especially now that Royal Melbourne has gone through the changes of getting the Suttons Mix back on the greens. Suttons Mix is super quick, fast and firm to putt on. There’s no question, local knowledge comes into play. Freddie’s played here, so he’s going to instil some of the thought processes, [But] we’ll probably have more players who have played this golf course. “ Norman was quick to add, however, that the Americans will likely have extra motivation to perform well come November. “The Americans won’t want to lose the Ryder Cup AND the Presidents

which has brought them back to their former glory. The addition of two “new” holes to the composite will also bring a bit of excitement to the event, especially the 153m par-3 14th (16 East), which features heavy bunkering and a slick green. The hole was normally skipped in composite play, but will now play an important part in the tournament. “I definitely think the new 14 was a great change,” Norman said. “The old composite 16 was a great par-3, but I have always encouraged that we use that hole [the new 14th] that we’d walk by every time. It’s probably one of the best green complexes and settings that I have ever seen,” he added. The Presidents Cup will be played from November 17-20. Inside Golf will follow the story throughout the year. Stay tuned! For more information about the Presidents Cup, visit: www.pgatour.com/tournaments/ presidentscup/

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inbrief

Craig Parry confirmed as Kooindah Waters’ 2011 Ambassador Australian Open 2007 winner Craig Parry will continue in his role as Ambassador for Kooindah Waters Residential Golf and Spa Resort, after Parry and the Resort’s owner, Investa Property Group agreed to extend the relationship following its success in 2010. Designed by renowned golf course architect Ross Watson, in conjunction with Craig Parry, and managed by Troon Golf, the course was recently listed among the Top 100 golf courses in Australia. “I’m proud of my involvement with

Sanctuary Cove’s new golf course heralds an exciting era for members Sanctuary Cove’s new ‘The Palms’ golf course is on schedule to open early in 2011 and is already being hailed as one of the finest tropical golf course designs in the southern hemisphere. Designer Ross Watson, who has ten designs in the top 100 Australian golf courses, expects The Palms to be rated in the top 50 golf courses in Australia. With its impressive signature rustic bunkers, the 6,000 metre par-70 course is carved through a backdrop of century old Cabbage Palms and Paper Bark trees. The new golf course is part of an exciting future for Sanctuary Cove. With a multimillion dollar new infrastructure, members have exclusive access to exceptional golf and facilities including new course The Palms, Australia’s only Arnold Palmer signature course The Pines, a new $13 million dollar golf clubhouse with spectacular views of the golfing landscape and wildlife and soon a new multi-million dollar Rec Club offering exceptional services for health, fitness beauty and relaxation. For further information please contact Steve Darmody Ph 0419 731 152 or email Steve at golf@sanctuarycove.com

No stopping Laura

LIKE a fine wine, Briton Laura Davies seems to get better with age. In 2010, Davies, who plays the Ladies European Tour (LET), recorded five victories in five different countries – New Zealand, Germany, Austria, Spain and India. Her win in the Indian Open was her 79th career victory and made her the oldest player to win on the LET at 47 years, one month and eight days. Davies’ first win was at the Belgian Ladies’ Open in 1985 and so far she has 45 victories on the LET with her biggest winning margin being 16 strokes in Ireland in 1995. She has won the Order of Merit seven times.

Price picks ‘Shrek’

FORMER world number one Nick Price paid 2010 Open Championship winner Louis “Shrek” Oosthuizen a complement during the Nedbank Challenge at Sun City in South Africa.

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Kooindah Waters and consider it to be among the best resort courses in Australia. Membership of the Club is booming which is testament to its quality,” Parry said.

Kooindah Waters Residential Golf and Spa Resort is located on Pollock Avenue, Wyong. For further information, visit www.kooindahwaters.com.au or call (02) 4355- 5777.

Zimbabwean Price, who won three major championships in a stellar career, was asked whose swing of the modern day players he would like to emulate if he was still competing at the highest level. “I’d take Louis Oosthuizen’s,” Price said without hesitating. Coincidentally, co-commentator and former top touring professional Dale Hayes agreed with Price.

Top award for PGA IGI

A new “spin” for Titleist

The Board of Directors of Fortune Brands announced last month that they have agreed to separate their three businesses, including the potential sale or spin-off of marketleading golf company, Acushnet, owner of the Titleist and FootJoy brands. “The strength of the Acushnet Company as the undisputed global leader in the golf category, and confidence in our growth prospects were factors contributing to the Board’s decision,” commented Acushnet CEO, Wally Uihlein. “Whether the Acushnet Company is sold to a new owner or becomes an independent publicly traded company, our focus will be to keep on doing what’s made us the leader in our industry – the delivery of best-inclass products and service to our customers and golf consumers.” Acushnet is currently the largest and most profitable golf equipment company in the world, and represents an enticing prospect for purchase by competing companies like Nike or Callaway. Watch this space!

Play 100 holes in a day?

Adam Scott has put out a challenge to mad-keen golfers. Play 100 holes of golf in a single day, all for a great cause. On February 9th at Sydney’s Avondale Golf Club, players will tee off at 7am, drive carts all day, follow amended rules and spend up to 12 hours to complete 100 holes, all in the name of charity. There is no entry fee but players will be asked to raise funds for The Adam Scott Foundation (funding projects including the ASF Autism Grants Project and ASF Youth Centre). All players who reach the minimum fundraising requirement and participate in Marathon Golf will go into the draw to win a fabulous prize to attend a major international golf tournament. Register online at www.everydayhero. com.au/event/100holesofgolf, or ring 02 9439 3434

THE PGA International Golf Institute (PGA IGI) ended 2010 on a high when it received a significant award at the Queensland Education and Training International Awards for Excellence. The PGA IGI’s success in the category “Outstanding Pathway Provider” ahead of prominent Higher Education providers exemplifies its commitment to best practice. “It’s a tremendous honour to receive such an award and it is a credit to the extended team which supports the PGA IGI operations including staff, trainers and stakeholders”, PGA IGI chief executive officer Tracey Howley said. “Our staff work tirelessly towards best practice for the organisation and our students, and this award, is an affirmation of that hard work in what was a challenging year. “We look forward to an exciting 2011 as a result of winning this award.” The PGA IGI’s Diploma of Golf Management provides a number of exit and pathway points taught in multiple delivery formats providing flexible options for students with diverse career and education outcome requirements. In 2005, the PGA of Australia (PGA) and Griffith University merged resources to establish a world-class and globally-recognised centre of excellence in golf studies to meet the growing demands of the global golf industry – the PGA International Golf Institute. The Institute’s hands-on approach to student mentoring and management, quality of its courses and trainers, and commitment to student outcomes is outstanding. With an enviable graduate success rate, many students are recruited by international golf employers before they graduate. Based on the Gold Coast, the PGA IGI delivers a golf education program that ensures students have the practical experience and pathway options they need to achieve their career goals. For more information about the PGA IGI and it golf education programs telephone (07) 5657 6116 or go to the website www.pgaigi.com

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Andrew Dodt

Three years wiser & better!

AnthonyPowter Last month marked the third anniversary as a tour professional for Andrew Dodt. The passage of time has been rewarding and challenging for the former Australian Stroke Play champion, a period that was capped off with his maiden tour victory at the Avantha Masters last February on the European Tour. The win in India secured Dodt’s playing rights in Europe for two seasons and in the process has enabled him to groove his game on the world’s second biggest tour. In 2010 he also finished a creditable 4th on the Asian Tour money list in a season which had the 24-year-old dividing his time between the Asian and European Tours.

“If someone had said to me that I would win on the European Tour within three years of being a professional, I would be pretty happy,” said Dodt during our interview last month at the Australian Open championship in Sydney. “I haven’t really followed on from the win in India. I’ve been a bit inconsistent during the later part of this year, but I’m happy where I’m at with my career.” Dodt played in 21 European Tour events last year, winning once with the co-sanctioned Asian event in India and making the money in ten events, with a top-20 finish at the French Open his best. In Asia he also secured a tied 3rd- place finish at the Myanmar Open and a top-25 finish in the Asia Pacific Classic. The signs of a promising professional career have always been there for Dodt. Even as an

amateur Dodt’s scoring consistency in tournament play had raised the Queenslander above the bar of other promising amateurs of his era. Dodt picked up a golf club when he was four, influenced by his father, Errol, who still plays at Gatton Golf Club, west of Brisbane. The bond Dodt shares with his home club remains strong. He still gets advice from the local pro at Gatton, Jim Barden, in a relationship that has extended for many years and one that’s unlikely to change. As an amateur Dodt secured four main titles, the 2007 Australian Stroke Play Championship, 2007 Keperra Bowl, 2007 Asia Pacific Nomura Cup and was the 2006 Malaysian Amateur Champion. Dodt’s consistency was exhibited no more so when he won the Australian Amateur Stroke Play Championship over Scott Arnold at NSW Golf Club in horrendous conditions back in 2007. Since

then Dodt has gone from strength to strength and he’s made the difficult transition from topline amateur golf to the professional arena in a seamless and efficient manner. Progression to the paid ranks towards the end of 2007 seemed only natural, he’d established himself within the amateur ranks and had proven his consistency in four-round stroke tournaments. In his rookie professional season in Asia during 2008, Dodt recorded six top-10 finishes, which included a runner-up result at the Vietnam Masters where he came close to his first Asian Tour victory but was beaten in a play-off by Thongchai Jaidee. In 2009, Dodt fired even better with another top-10 finish at the Macau Open and the cash-rich Barclays Singapore Open, as well as a top-20 in the Black Mountain Masters and Worldwide Holdings

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Selangor Masters. Dodt would eventually finish 15th on the Order of Merit for the 2009 season. This season has seen Dodt focus mainly in Europe where with his partner, Ashleigh, they’ve set a base in a London unit that’s 20 minutes from Heathrow Airport. The location of the home base takes a lot of hassle out of the logistical challenges of playing in Europe and makes life easier. “I’m loving Europe,” says Dodt. “It’s a lot more than what I thought it would be. You play in different countries and courses each week. It’s been great and shaped my game more to meet these differences. I’ve come out of my first full season in Europe a lot stronger as a player, probably more so than if I’d played elsewhere.” Dodt’s mental resolve is certainly solid. He takes setbacks as being part and parcel of the profession and life on tour. Setbacks he views are nothing more than a by-product with being a professional sportsperson. You move with the times and focus on the future, not the past. Dodt has demonstrated this resolve on countless occasions during his three years as a professional. In November 2009 he left America gutted after missing the second stage of the PGA Tour School. For many players, PGA Q-School is often seen as the “make or break” period of their career. Dodt, however, simply took a valuable lesson from the overall experience and moved on. At the time little did Dodt know what would transpire back in Australasia in the months to follow. “I came back home at the time a little dejected after missing out at Q-School in the States, but was still confident with my game,” says Dodt. “I then came second in New Zealand the week before I came seventh at Moonah. Had I won in New Zealand, then I would have been playing on the Nationwide Tour and not gone to India. It’s strange how different paths lead to things.

I’ve been a bit inconsistent during the later part of this year, but I’m happy where I’m at with my career.

Now I’m playing in Europe, so I could have gone either way.” Within a period of just three months after the obvious disappointments in California, Dodt had secured full playing privileges in Europe and Asia and in the process guaranteed his immediate professional future. “During the last two years in Asia and this year in Europe, I’ve learned how to prepare for golf tournaments and get used to life on the road,” says Dodt. “I like how Europe and Asia are preparing my game, forcing me to play the different shots. We get all the different types of weather over there and you have to move the ball

left-to-right, right-to-left, hit the low shots in and use different shots around the greens. In the US most of the time you just have to bomb it and hit it in high. In this respect, I like how my game is developing as I have to play those shots.” Ultimately, Dodt wants to ply his trade on the PGA Tour in America, not that he has anything to dislike about playing either Europe or Asia. The world’s best formulate a schedule that focuses upon the PGA Tour, yet also includes a blend of other events, particularly the bigger events on the European and Asian Tour. This is what Dodt is hoping to achieve within the next few years, a balance of the best of all

feature 15

tours, yet he knows there’s more work to be done with his game before venturing to the US. “Lately, I’ve been making a few silly errors on the course and it’s been frustrating,” says Dodt. “I’ve been in the middle of the fairway, 80 metres out and having a 10-footer for par. My game just hasn’t been sharp enough.” Any change requires a settling-in period and Dodt knows this. The 2011 season is shaping up nicely for him which will have Dodt playing mainly in Europe, with some starts in Asia. His game is also getting sharper as are his irons, with another hole-in-one secured during the final round of the Australian Open at The Lakes, for his seventh on tour. Dodt is also enjoying living in Europe. To say that he’s wiser from his first full season in Europe is probably understating the enormity of the challenges with being on the European Tour, but Dodt has become settled and is ready for a solid 2011 season. “We’ve had a huge lifestyle change this year moving from one side of the world to the other. This year I probably didn’t know where we were going. Next season we will know more, pick out a schedule and stick to it. I’ll be better prepared for 2011.” This approach will serve Dodt well in Europe, considered by many as the hardest world tour to make a living from. He also appreciates the enormity of his good fortune. Fortune that Dodt himself was responsible for and created. “I want to get myself back into the top-100 in the world this season,” he says. “I’d also like to win again in Europe. It will be a challenge, but this season I feel I’m better prepared for a win with all that I’ve done and being fortunate enough to achieve. I’m a better player from it all and that’s a great feeling to have moving into a new year.”

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January 2011

16 industrynews................................................................................................................................................................................................. www.insidegolf.com.au The Dunes Port Hughes unveils plans for $5m resort

Plans for a $5 million resort complex within The Dunes Port Hughes development on the Yorke Peninsula were officially unveiled. Australian golf legend Greg Norman was on hand to help reveal design plans for “The Village”, which will include a modern restaurant, bar and function centre, plus tennis courts, swimming pool and gym for residents. Golf club facilities have also been incorporated, including a pro shop and members’ lounge to service the 18-hole PGA standard golf course currently being built. The Dunes Port Hughes Chief Executive Officer Andrew Martin was delighted to uncover plans for The Village, which will commence construction next year. “Revealing the resort plans is a major milestone for the development, which has taken some giant strides this year in terms of residential allotment sales, construction of new homes and development of the golf course,” said Mr Martin.

“These first-rate leisure facilities will set a new standard on the Yorke Peninsula and help us deliver the lifestyle vision we have for residents and visitors to The Dunes.” The championship golf course is the centrepiece of The Dunes Port Hughes and was formally inspected by Norman and his design team, who were impressed with the newly laid tees, greens and fairways that will form part of the front nine. Based on traditional Scottish links, the Port Hughes layout is Norman’s first in South Australia with the front nine due to open to the public around Easter next year once the current roll-out of more than 180,000sqm of instant turf is completed this summer. As one of the first golf courses in Australia to be laid entirely with instant grass, rather than grown from seed, construction of the picturesque layout is being overseen by leading golf course companies Turnpoint and Troon Golf to ensure Norman’s exacting standards are met.

Oz top golf destination award Australia has been named as the 2011 Golf Destination of the Year ahead of 12 other destinations in the Asia and Australasia category. The announcement came at last month’s 11th Virgin Atlantic Golf Travel Awards gala dinner held in Valencia Spain. It was organised by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) to recognise exceptional contributions to the world of golf travel. Collecting the award for Australia Ben Janeczko, Distribution Development Manager of Tourism Australia UK, said: “Australia is a fantastic golfing holiday destination so we’re really pleased to receive this award in recognition of the incredible golf courses the country has to offer. “There is a huge variety of world-class championship golf courses throughout Australia, many of which are in iconic locations such as the Great Barrier Reef. “It’s fantastic to receive an award that recognises that Australia not only has a real passion for sport, but also the world class facilities to match.” Peter Walton, Chief Executive of IAGTO, said: “This is the first time Australia has won an IAGTO award which shows how much the awareness of destination is increasing amongst tour operators. “Australia really stands out for its fantastic range of golf facilities so we’re pleased to be able to recognise the contribution the country is making to international golf travel.” The awards were voted for by IAGTO’s 340 golf tour operators from 51 different countries.

Henry Griffitts awards Aussie with Master clubfitter award Henry-Griffitts Limited, the premier customfit company in golf, has announced its 2010 awards. The categories for the awards include two Master Golf Clubfitter™, two Professional Golf Clubfitters® and two special awards. A Master Golf Clubfitter honour went to Jeff Mansfield from Wallacia, NSW. Jeff has been an H-G fitter for more than 10 years and a member of the Australian PGA since 1991. Mansfield is a Certified H-G Teaching Professional, HenryGriffitts N.S.W. Regional Director and has been an AAA accredited golf professional for 13 years. Among the requirements to become a Master Golf Clubfitter are (1) Henry-Griffitts Professional Golf Clubfitter status, (2) fitting with the Henry-Griffitts Precision Fitting Method for at least 48 months, (3) completing categories such as contributions to training, research, etc., (4) publishing a work related to clubfitting, (5) completing a Masters Thesis Paper, and (6) speaking publicly on any clubfitting topic or submitting a video tape on the subject.

Pacific Harbour adds star power

Sydney’s first Greg Norman golf course nearing completion When Greg Norman first saw the land at Stonecutters Ridge, he knew it would be perfect for a golf course. “I fell in love with it because as a designer, we look for certain movements in the terrain. This property was unique in its own right, because the gaps between the ridges were almost perfect for a golf hole,” said Greg Norman. The spectacular new course at Stonecutters Ridge in Colebee is nearing completion of the construction phase and will be Sydney’s first Greg Norman-designed championship golf course. The 18 holes are now constructed, with 8 holes fully established and 6 holes nearing full establishment. As with every Greg Norman course, the environment has been the priority and the golf course has been constructed to ensure minimal impact on the land. “There wasn’t a lot of earth moving we had to do here, you could actually just do your layout, put the greens in the right places, put your tees in there and just go with it. It was really a perfect piece of property,” said Greg. Environmental consideration also included the rehabilitation of the Eastern Creek frontage, with new native grassing and tree planting. This area is now complete and, thanks to recent wet weather, has established with great success. Over 5 hectares of wetlands is now hosting a variety of birds and plants, which will enhance the golf experience. Sydney’s recent wet spell has also accelerated the establishment of landscape areas around the golf course at Stonecutters Ridge. The course is now providing a spectacular outlook for new residents at this stunning residential golf community, with views over stunning green fairways and picturesque water features.

If you’ve ever considered buying a golf course frontage lot, now is the time to buy at Stonecutters Ridge. They’ve just released seven prestigious golf frontage lots overlooking the established fairways and holes 5 and 6. The spectacular lots vary in size from 610m2 to 834m2(approximately), with backyards that blend seamlessly with the golf course greens and overlook the dramatic bunkering at hole 6. Stonecutters Ridge has been developed by Medallist, a joint venture between Greg Norman’s Great White Shark Enterprises and Macquarie Bank Limited. Medallist has award-winning residential golf communities in Australia, the USA and South Africa. “We look forward to opening Sydney’s first Greg Norman-designed championship

golf course in the near future. It will be a spectacular course suited to players of all levels, and is already an outstanding feature of Stonecutters Ridge”, said Brad Tindale, Medallist’s Chief Executive Officer. For more information on the golf course or land for sale at Stonecutters Ridge, visit the Land Sales Office, open daily from 10am5pm, at 25 Stonecutters Drive (off Symonds Rd), Colebee. There is also a Display Village, complete with stunning homes overlooking the golf course to help you experience golf front living at its best. For more information, contact Stonecutters Ridge on 1800 667 626 or visit stonecuttersridge.com.au

The Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club in Queensland will have an extra bit of star-power with the signing of celebrity club ambassador Ian Skippen. A golfing enthusiast, the Triple M breakfast host will now become a regular visitor to the Club as their newest ambassador. Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club general manager Damian Brown said the Club was pleased to have such a household name on board as a club ambassador. “Ian has been a well known radio personality in Brisbane for many years, and we are very excited to have him on board,” Mr Brown said. “As part of his role as ambassador, Ian will be attending a number of golfing and social events at the club during the year, with his first gig as MC at the annual awards night recently. “Ian was very impressed with the facilities on offer here at Pacific Harbour, and we are very confident he will do an excellent job in his new role as club ambassador. “You never know when you might run into Ian having a hit on the course or a drink at the clubhouse.” Following several visits to the Club, Ian said he couldn’t knock back the chance to become a Pacific Harbour ambassador. “This has to be the most beautiful course in South East Queensland – I already know every square metre intimately,” Mr Skippen said. “I can’t think of a prettier place to look for a golf ball. A hell of a golf course needs a hell of an ambassador and when Tiger couldn’t do it I jumped at the chance.”

January 2011 www.insidegolf.com.au..........................................................................................

industrynews

Tiger Woods helped Nike’s bottom line Nike’s decision to stick with Tiger Woods through his messy sex scandal may have paid off — at least in terms of golf-ball sales, the Advertising Age reports. Nike lost 105,000 golf-ball customers in the six months after the golfer’s philandering went public. But the losses would have been even greater had they ditched him and would have cost the company $1.6 million in profits, according to the study released last month by Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business. The scandal hurt Wood’s ability to attract customers, but “it wasn’t so bad it eroded all his endorsement effect,” said Timothy Derdenger, assistant professor of economics and strategy and a study co-author. “So they did make the correct decision to stand by Tiger,” he said. But the study also illuminates how the downfall of one endorser can drag down an entire industry. Some people simply stopped playing golf in reaction to the scandal, leading to a loss of $7.5 million in profits for all golf ball companies,

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researchers concluded. The study — which used advanced techniques to isolate Tiger’s endorsement effect on consumer behaviour — found that Nike gained 4.5 million golf ball customers and $60 million in profit since 2000, when Woods first endorsed the golf balls.

Researchers did not look at Nike’s other Tiger-endorsed products, but concluded that if Nike got similar returns across product lines, the company has more than recouped the estimated $200 million in endorsement fees it has paid the golfer in the past 10 years.

Charles and Campbell inducted into NZ Hall of Fame Sir Bob Charles and Michael Campbell were inducted as foundation members into the Hall of Fame, launched last month at the New Zealand Golf ’s Centenary Dinner in Wellington. New Zealand Golf believe the centenary of the organisation was the ideal occasion to establish the Hall of Fame to honour and safeguard the memories of those who have made a lasting footprint on the game in New Zealand. “It’s more than just honouring those people for their impact on golf. In doing so we will ensure that their traditions are not merely preserved but perhaps more importantly, they set the benchmark for future generations of golfers who dare to dream and who aspire to such greatness,” said New Zealand Golf Chairman, Philip Hassall.

Sir Bob Charles “New Zealanders have achieved great things in this game and Sir Bob and Michael have made giant contributions both on and off the golf course. It’s that essence that we want to both honour and set as a challenge for those coming along

in the future.” Both Charles and Campbell have also made major contributions to golf in New Zealand through their respective foundations and scholarships. Source: OneSport

GMA appoints new Executive Officer

Appointments

Golf Management Australia Ltd. (GMA) announced last month the appointment of its inaugural Executive Officer. GMA President David Burton (General Manager of New South Wales Golf Club) announced that GMA’s new Executive Officer is David Allen. Mr Allen has extensive administrative experience in golf, having previously served 12 years as Executive Director of the NSW Golf Association along with 14 years experience managing golf clubs both in Australia and Malaysia. He was also previously General Manager of both Kingston Heath and Kingswood Golf Clubs. “The Board’s recruitment of a parttime Executive Officer to provide the administrative and representative role for GMA proved to be a more challenging process than we initially thought” said Mr Burton.

Please congratulate the following General Managers appointments: General Manager – Oxley Andrew Pease Please send all new management postings to be included in a future issue to ed@insidegolf.com.au. 

“Well over thirty candidates applied and a very talented short-list of six applicants was interviewed. Three were eminently qualified for our needs, and we were pleased to announce that David was the successful candidate. His supporting role will facilitate GMA in meeting our objectives of service delivery to all GMA members, including coordination of the biennial national conferences. David has already commenced in this role, and is well known to many in the golf industry.” Commenting on his appointment, Mr Allen said “I am delighted to be appointed as GMA’s inaugural Executive Officer. GMA is the national body which represents and assists golf club general managers and I look forward to working with GMA on a number of exciting projects.”

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January 2011

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Tassie grassroots golf the winner DavidNewbery IT might be the smallest state in Australia, but Tasmanian grassroots golf was the big winner recently thanks to Christian Rainey. Rainey, a part-time golf development officer, was the toast of the Apple Isle when he was named the state’s best community coach. Rainey topped a field of 150 coaches from various sports and activities to win the prestigious award. The award highlights best practice and recognises outstanding achievements in coaching within the Australian Sports Commission’s Active After-School Communities (AASC) program. The program provides primary school-aged children with access to free sport and other structured physical activity programs in the afterschool time slot of 3.00pm to 5.30pm. It aims to engage traditionally inactive children in sport and other structured physical activities and, through a positive and fun experience, develop a love of sport that inspires them to join a local sporting club. Rainey has been an integral member of the AASC coaching team since 2005, delivering in excess of 500 golf sessions at 36 schools across the State. “I have been doing the program since 2005 when I was a second year trainee professional at Tasmania Golf Club,” said Rainey, a member of the PGA of Australia. “So I look at the award as a long-service award.” According to Rainey, thousands of children have tried golf in Tasmania.

“One of the reasons I won the award was I have done some pretty good numbers,” he said. “I think it’s at least 1000 kids that I have taught over that time and about 2000 have tried golf. “One of the great things about the AASC program is it actually gets kids to the golf course and into the club program. “It creates an avenue for kids to have a fun, positive golfing experience, not just on a school oval, but importantly, at a golf club. “The difficulty is getting kids to kick on with golf. “We can deliver the kids to the clubs, but the club has got to pick them up from there.” Rainey’s commitment to the program has been his willingness to travel to all corners of Tasmania to deliver golf to children. “I wouldn’t have been able to get huge numbers if I didn’t travel,” he said. He even travelled to Bruny Island – an island off the south-eastern coast of Tasmania. “You have to catch a ferry there and it’s a threeand-a-half hour round trip,” Rainey said. And in his travels, Rainey is prepared for anything. “I have been to the best manicured ovals to the worst, bone dry and wrist-breaking grounds,” he said. “Fortunately, I have mats that kids hit off so they don’t damage the good grass and don’t damage their wrists trying to hit off hard ground. “Golf is a sport for life – boys and girls can play and it’s affordable, especially through this program which is free to children and their parents.”

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* Clubhouse and Village Precinct opening at a future date to be advised. This advertisement has been prepared by Medallist Golf Holdings Pty Ltd ATF Medallist Schofields Trust (Medallist). This advertisement is a guide only, does not constitute an offer and is subject to the terms of any sale and/or construction contract. Whilst all information has been gathered from sources we deem to be reliable, we do not guarantee the accuracy of this information, nor do we accept responsibility for any action taken by intending purchasers in reliance on this information. Intending purchasers should make their own enquiries as to the details of the development and products available. The availability of certain products and materials may result in some deviation to this advertisement. Whilst all details have been carefully prepared and are believed to be correct, no warranty can be given either expressly or implied by the vendors or their agents. Intending purchasers must rely on their own enquiries. Specifi cations may change at any time. Illustrations and lot measurements are indicative only. December 2010.

January 2011

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Frances dances to own tune DavidNewbery

SHE was born in the United States of proud Filipino parents, but Frances Bondad is as Australian as Vegemite. While the 22-year-old is proud of her heritage and culture, she is extremely patriotic when it comes to Australia where she has lived for the past 19 years. Bondad, a former top amateur, joined the play-for-pay ranks two years ago and plies her trade on the Ladies European Tour The unassuming Sydneysider might not be a household name just yet, but if she has her way that’ll change when she wins her country’s premier event. “I want to win the women’s Australian Open more than anything,” Bondad said. “In fact, I would like to win any big Australian event – even the Australian Ladies Masters – more than the British Open or any other major.” As an amateur, Bondad was Australia’s number one ranked player in 2006 and early 2007. She turned professional in 2007 and spent her rookie year (2008) on the LET where she had two top-20 finishes. A return trip to the final stage of LET qualifying school resulted in rounds of 75-69-71-67 – good enough to finish second. “I found it tough in my first year on tour and lost my card,” she said. “Going back to qualifying school wasn’t scary because I just treated it as another event.” In 2010, Bondad was quickly back in the groove finishing just outside the top-20 on the money list with earnings of €80,370 ($A108,000). “It was a bit of an up-and-down year where I made almost every cut, but I only contended in two events (Swiss Open and the Open de Espana Femenin).

Frances Bondad watches the outcome of an approach shot Photo courtesy of the ALPG’s Paul Melville “It was a consistent year although I would have liked to contend more often. I’d rate my year six out of 10.” A highlight that stands out is a tournament round with champion golfer Laura Davies. It was during a trip to Spain that Bondad, aware of the aura surrounding Davies, found herself on the first tee with the former world number one. She didn’t know what to expect and was naturally nervous when Davies put her at ease by taking her mind off golf. “Laura is a very nice lady and not intimidating at all,” Bondad said. “She was very friendly and we chatted about cricket and football.”

Yet to register her first professional win, Bondad says she’ll continue playing on the LET although she is considering a tilt at the Japan LPGA Tour. I am going to try and qualify for Japan because there are more events, more money and it’s only one flight away from home,” she said. “When I go to Europe I have to stay there for several months before I can come back, but if I play in Japan I can stay for a month and come home for a weekend if I want to. “One day I want to play on the US LPGA Tour, but I can’t see myself there for the next few years because my game is not up to the level.

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“There is still a lot of improvement I need to do, which is why I will try Japan so that I can measure my game.” Bondad knows that if she is going to take her game to the next level she will have to improve certain areas of her game. “I need to improve my ballstriking with my long irons because I tend to hit them a little thin.” Her driving accuracy is good and her putting is excellent. “When I am putting well I hole everything – it’s scary,” Bondad told Inside Golf. “Even though I know I am a good putter, I know I need to improve a whole lot more because when the ball doesn’t go in the hole it’s frustrating. “While the game can sometimes be frustrating, I really do love golf even though it doesn’t love me sometimes.” Bondad’s dad introduced her to golf when she was nine. He was a golf fanatic who would take her and her brother along to watch him practice at Liverpool Golf Club. One day the boredom set in so Bondad picked up one of his clubs, hit a few balls and was instantly hooked on the game. She was 12 when she broke par for the first time. Aw ay f rom t he r i gou rs of professional golf Bondad enjoys the movies, shopping, spending time with boyfriend Richard and dancing. “I just love dancing,” she said. “Whenever I listen to music I feel like dancing so whenever there’s an opportunity to dance, I dance.” Well, if Bondad fulfils her dream and wins the women’s Australian Open she’ll be dancing the night away without a care in the world.

Bondad knows there’s no gain without pain AS a professional sportsperson, Frances Bondad knows there is no gain without pain. And that’s why she sought out one of the best physical trainers and mentors in the business. Bondad has come under the guidance of Kevin Chevell – the man who kept former Australian cricket captain Mark Taylor and fast bowler Glenn McGrath on top of their game. Before Chevell agreed to train Bondad he put her through a two-week “torture test” to see if she was mentally tough enough. Bondad, who plays on the Ladies European Tour, passed the test and now religiously follows a punishing set of exercises that will help her become physically and mentally stronger. “I train with him six-days-a-week starting at 6.30am and train for an hour,” she said. “I’ve improved in fitness and I’m mentally stronger. “There have been four or five events where I’ve had to fight back to make the cut and the training he put me though really helped me become mentally stronger. The brutal training sessions have, on occasions, reduced Bondad to tears, but she knows it’s worth it. “He makes me do things that have really tested my mental strength,” she said. “He pushes you past your limit. “His favourite way to push you is the 5000m row, which you have to do in a certain time. “I also have to do 300 squats in 40 minutes carrying a bar with weights totalling 30kg. “Some of the things he makes me do are tough, but he is pretty special and I am proud to have him as my trainer.”

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Bankstown exciting and inviting

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DavidNewbery

BANKSTOWN Golf Club lives up to its reputation as being a friendly, big city golf club and general manager Derryn Weigand and his staff ensures that his members and guests enjoy service with a smile. Weigand says Bankstown is a vibrant club that welcomes visitors with open arms. As a suburban golf club it doesn’t come much better. This tough, challenging, well-manicured layout in Sydney is everything a classic parkland course should be. Throw in the members – an enthusiastic lot without a hint of snobbishness – and you have a recipe for a healthy, friendly club that is on many golfers’ “must play” list of favourites. The economic downturn has not managed to dent this operation and rounds continue to flow. “Membership,” says Weigand, “is steady but we can cater for more members in all categories. “What separates us from other golf clubs in the immediate area is our competition fees are only $5 compared to some clubs that charge $12 to $14,” Weigand said. “Our annual subscription is a little more expensive, but if you play twice a week it’s cheaper to play at Bansktown than at other courses.” Weigand, who has been at the helm for three years, is a self-confessed golf fanatic who plays off a handicap of one. By playing golf once a week, it gives him the opportunity to mix with the members and ensure the golf course is well maintained. “It’s a tough challenge from the plates, but the golf course is in very good condition,” he said.

The picturesque first hole at Bankstown Golf Club in Sydney “There’s not a huge amount of water hazards on the course, but the challenge is the tight, treelined fairways and the length (6038m).” “We have a couple of long par-4s and big undulating greens.” The golf club has all the facilities a golfer needs, including a seven-day-a-week bistro/restaurant. The golf club is also a popular venue for private functions. Over the years, Bankstown Golf Club has produced some top golfers – not the least Mitchell

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Brown, who was ranked the world’s top amateur in 2006 and current Australian woman’s amateur champion Justine Lee. “We also had Michael Smythe come through the junior ranks and won the NSW amateur championship last year,” Weigand said. It’s easy to see why Bankstown Golf Club, which is 20 minutes from the CBD and Parramatta, remains one of Sydney’s finest. For more information, telephone the golf club on (02) 9773-0628.

Enjoy great food and hospitality at the Jamberoo Pub, the best little pub on the south coast. Located in the heart of Jamberoo village and just five minutes’ walk to the Jamberoo Golf Course, this family-friendly historic, familyowned country pub has nine 2-star AAA Tourism rated Hotel rooms and nine well-appointed 3 1/2 Star motel rooms. Settled in the 1800’s, Jamberoo and its surrounds oozes country charm with lush pastures, red roofed farm houses, century old dry stone walls and cabbage palms. Amble through antiques stores, drop into the Jamberoo Pub or picnic by a babbling brook. Jamberoo is a quaint historic village with a small rural population, nestled below the escarpment and is less than two hours’ drive south of Sydney and ten minutes inland from Kiama. It is undoubtedly one of Australia’s best kept secrets. A weekend retreat for several Sydney celebrities, Jamberoo is essentially a dairying community offering visitors all sorts of activities including an 18-hole golf course, lawn bowls, tennis and croquet. Nearby, the Minnamurra Rainforest is managed by the National Parks & Wildlife Service and features a spectacular boardwalk through magnificent rainforest.

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January 2011

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Liverpool Golf Club Long recognised as one of Sydney’s better layouts, Liverpool Golf Club has undergone a series of improvements in recent years, and is worth a hit if you haven’t been there lately. Situated on the banks of the Georges River and Prospect Creek, Liverpool Golf Club offers a relaxing and tranquil setting for golfers of all abilities. With a reputation as one of Sydney’s premier golf venues, the club has put significant time and effort into course and clubhouse improvements lately, and the parkland-style course has returned to its former glory, thanks to the efforts of course superintendent Mark Schroder. Schroeder — who has recently returned to Liverpool following stints in Victoria and northern New South Wales – has made good use of brand-new maintenance equipment, transforming the course back into the challenging gem that has seen the likes of Peter Lonard, Paul “Fatty” Vautin, Paul Gow and Nationwide Tour ace Won Joon Lee stride the fairways at tournaments like the NSW Open Championship, the 1987 Australian PGA Championship, the 1994 NSW Amateur Championship and the 1987 and 1988 Jack Newton aged Championships.

Course Notes

Easily accessible off the Hume Highway and the M4 or M5 motorways, the Bob Greendesigned par-72 championship course (74 for ladies) features water on 14 of the 18 holes, 65 strategically-placed bunkers, and a layout that wends its way along a scenic and tranquil peninsula. The recently remodelled bunkers will challenge even the most seasoned players, while the choice of Championship or Social tees gives golfers of all levels a chance to enjoy the day’s golf. The relatively flat course requires good course management to keep the scores low. The fairways are considered to be among the best in the area, and many of the locals regard the course as one of the best value courses in Australia. The course is also known for its friendly members, who regularly bring their golfing buddies and mates to the weekly open competitions, or

the highly popular “Monster Monday” events on the first Monday of each month, which offers a prize pool of around $800. And while many locals assume that the course is a private/members-only course, Liverpool Golf Club is, in fact, open to the public. The club allows social play seven days a week (outside of competition play) and has four open competitions each week, on Sunday (mixed), Monday (mixed), Wednesday (ladies) and Thursday (men). Comp fees (including Monster Mondays) are only $35, and they are open to players with a valid handicap. Membership is currently open and rates are extremely competitive. So if you haven’t been to Liverpool lately, it’s probably time that you ventured back to this under-rated track and rediscover this parkland gem.

Liverpool Golf Club Hollywood Drive Lansvale NSW 2166 www.liverpoolgolf.com.au Proshop: (02) 9727 2422 General: (02) 9728 7777 Holes: 18 Metres: 6266m Par: 72 Green Fees INDIVIDUALS • Weekend social–$45.00 after 3:30pm • Mid week 18 holes–$40.00 • Mid week 9 holes–$25.00 • Discounts apply for students and social members SUNDAY SOCIAL CLUBS (Advance booking required) • 6:30am to 8:30am off the 10th tee • $55.00 per player • Discounts apply for social members ($45.00) CORPORATE GROUPS • Tuesdays and Fridays • Up to 19 players–$40.00 • 20–29 players–$38.00 • Over 30 players–$32.00 • Discounts apply for students

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Riverlakes adapt best as Mosman make history The 2010 Holden Scramble has concluded with Riverlakes Golf Club from Queensland and Mosman Park Golf Club from Western Australia taking out the Mixed and Women’s Scrambles, respectively. Both teams braved trying conditions to become victorious in a revised 27-hole format, due to inclement weather and light restrictions. Riverlakes Golf Club managed to hold on to their very slender overnight lead to just get over the top of a strong challenge from Dubbo Golf Club, while Mosman Park created history by becoming the first team from the West to hold the trophy aloft. For nineteen years, Western Australians have been trying to get their state etched into either trophy, but none have gone the distance. Until now. Led by Head Professional Tony Howell, the ladies from Perth combined beautifully to win by 1.1 shots over Box Hill Golf Club from Victoria and be deemed the first Western Australian Holden Scramble Champions in either the Mixed or Women’s sections. The team consisting of Anne Pennock, Sue Rich, Jennifer Keddy and Yolande Caruso got off the ideal start and were leading by 1 from Box Hill Golf Club, with Keperra and Barnwell Park Golf Clubs in close pursuit. The next day, torrential rain stormed down on the course forcing the second round to be abandoned and the final round reduced to nine holes to make it a 27-hole tournament. Joined by Holden Young Lion Carlie Butler, Mosman Park showed nerves of steel as they shot a final round score of 26.7 to finish with 83.1, 1.1 shots clear of Box Hill Golf Club.

Not having it quite so comfortable was Riverlakes Golf Club, who played exceptionally well to beat Dubbo Golf Club by less than a shot. The team consisting of Matt Pease, Adrian Robert, Mark Dowley, Brett Baker and Club Professional Steve McCann had the narrowest of margins after round one, with four other clubs all within 0.4 of a shot of their first round 53.6. They then put the foot on the gas in the final round and were 5 under after 6 holes before eventually finishing with a final round of 24.8 to give them a total score of 78.4, only a mere 0.95 of a shot clear of Dubbo Golf Club.

While both teams were delighted with their sensational final rounds, they nearly didn’t eventuate. After continual heavy rain during the second round, play was abandoned and the cut was made using the first round scores. The players were then dealt another blow as the rain continued to fall from the heavens, causing the consolation round for the second half of the field to be abandoned and the final round delayed. The rain eventually eased, allowing the fairways to become playable, and after the greens had the water swept off them, the course was ready for play and players were ready to compete.

The rain didn’t dampen the players’ moods during the delay though, as the tour professionals mingled with their teams and talked tactics for the final round. The players were then treated to a fireside chat with Australasian Tour Professionals Wayne Grady, Adam Bland and Kieran Pratt as well as Australian Kangaroos and Melbourne Storm captain Cameron Smith. Congratulations to the victorious Riverlakes Golf Club and Mosman Park Golf Club as another fantastic Scramble season concludes and plans and preparations get underway for next year’s much anticipated 20th anniversary of the Holden Scramble.

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January 2011 www.insidegolf.com.au.............................................................................................................................

events

Sunraysia Golf Tours

19th Annual Tri-State Masters May 15 – May 20 Red Cliffs Golf Club, Riverside Golf Club, Coomealla Golf Club The 19th Annual Sunraysia Golf Tours Tri-State Masters will be played entirely in the Sunraysia/Mildura region for the first time this year. This year the tournament will be played at Red Cliffs Golf Club on Monday May 16, Riverside Golf Club on Wednesday May 18 and Coomealla Golf Club on Friday May 20. All local golf courses are currently in their best ever condition after excessive rain and additional water supplies became available to all golf clubs over the last twelve months, following ten years of drought. The 54 hole Tri-State Masters is open to any adult golfer with a registered club handicap. The 54 hole sections include scratch open and senior divisions and stableford divisions in A, B, C, veteran and super veteran, in both men’s and ladies. Tournament director Shane Doherty is looking forward to welcoming lots of new and past players to Mildura this year. “We have welcomed golfers from almost 200 clubs including fifty people

Magenta Challenge

Every Sunday Magenta Shores The Magenta Challenge will be back in 2011 following the success of its inaugural year! Open to all golfers with handicaps, the Magenta Challenge is a weekly Individual Stableford event for Ladies and Gentlemen. This event is played from the Members competition markers not the back tees. Come along every Sunday in 2011, starting 2nd January from 7am for your chance to win weekly prizes...PLUS the Individual Stableford Winner each week will be invited back to the Magenta Challenge FINAL as a VIP guest to play with some of Australia’s leading pro golfers. Put yourself to the test on this impressive Ross Watson designed golf course and reserve your place in the Magenta Challenge. Phone Magenta Shores Golf & Country Club on 02 4352 8145. Cost is $99.00 per person including 18 holes of golf, shared cart and competition fee. For more information visit www.magentagolf.com.au

Victorian Open

January 6-9 Spring Valley Golf Club Following record crowds at the 2010 event, the 2011 Victorian Open will once again vie to be one of the summer’s standout tournaments. Held at the magnificent Spring Valley Golf Club – a Melbourne Sandbelt club rated by last year’s players as among the best courses in Melbourne – this year’s event features a prize pool of $120,000, and will doubtless draw some of Australia’s top players.

from New Zealand who have visited Mildura to play in our tournament. This has been great for our clubs and our district since the Tri-State Masters began in 1993. We endeavour to give people a terrific golfing holiday that includes tournament golf, social games, welcoming and closing functions, evening functions and a paddleboat dinner dance. Since 1993 we have had almost 4500 people attend the tournament which is something we are very proud of ”. Entry fee of $195 includes a competitor gift pack, Opening Cocktail Party, three rounds of golf and a a Presentation Dinner. Optional social games include a 4BBB stableford on Tuesday May 17 and

an ambrose in fours on Thursday May 19. Since the Tri-State Masters began, over $300,000 in trophies have been won by ordinary everyday club golfers. You don’t have to be an A-grade golfer to take home a great trophy as the B and C grade trophies receive the same as the A graders. Sunraysia Golf Tours’ motto since its inception is that “It’s always nice to meet nice people” and “memories live longer than dreams”. Entries close April 22. For more information, contact Shane Doherty on 03 5024 6799 or Email golf@ sunraysiagolftours.com.au or visit www.sunraysiagolftours.com.au

First played in 1957, the Victorian Open honour role is a veritable ‘who’s who’ of Australian golf, with names like Peter Thomson, Robert Allenby, Ian Baker-Finch and Greg Norman etched on the trophy, while other wellknown names like Stuart Appleby, Geoff Ogilvy, Aaron Baddeley, Marc Leishman, Marcus Fraser, Cameron Percy and Alistair Presnell have all participated as amateurs or as young professionals in this esteemed tournament. The event has provided the initial major tournament breakthrough opportunity for numerous talented young players. Previous winners like Ashley Hall and Marc Leishman have used the tournament as a platform to further success in Asia and the US. www.springvalleygolf.com.au

Australian Master of the Amateurs

Mornington Peninsula 54-hole Tournament May 3-5 Rosebud Park, The Dunes and Sorrento Golf Club THE Mornington Peninsula will be on show to golfers across the country in May as the region prepares to host its second annual Mornington Peninsula 54-hole Tournament. Golfers will play an individual Stableford event on each day of the 3-day tournament. Courses include Rosebud Park, The Dunes and Sorrento Golf Club. Entry to the Mornington Peninsula 54hole Tournament is $235 per person, and includes golf, three lunches, trophies, the welcome party and a bag of goodies that will showcase the region’s attractions. Entry forms are available from the MPGT website: www.golfmorningtonpeninsula.com.au

January 11-14 Royal Melbourne GC Australia’s highest-rated Amateur golf event, the Australian Master of the Amateurs, will take centre stage this month, with the world’s top elite amateur golfers battling it out for the coveted jacket and trophy. Italy’s National Elite Coach, Alberto Binaghi (who is also the coach of professional golfer Matteo Manassero) is sending 14-year-old Domenico Geminiani, who at present is the number 1 ranked Junior Amateur in Italy. Top New Zealand Amateur Golfer Ben Campbell will be joining British Amateur Champion Jin Jeong, Tom Lewis (UK) and American David McDaniel (ranked number 3 in the world by the R&A World Amateur Rankings). Countries represented at the event include the USA, England, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, China, Italy, Korea, Fiji and Vanuatu. The event will be played at Royal Melbourne GC from Tuesday 11th– Friday 14th. Spectators are welcome, and there is no admission fee. www.masteroftheamateurs.com.au

Ivo Whitton Tournament

Jan 29-30 Portland Golf Club Portland GC will be holding their Annual 72- hole Ivo Whitton Tournament on the 29th and 30th of this month. In addition, the Club has regular Open days: Tuesday–Stableford (Mens), Wednesday–Ladies Comp, Thursday– Stableford (Medley) and Saturday–Mens and ladies comps. www.portlandgolfclub.com.au

January 2011

26 results............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... www.insidegolf.com.au

Results from around the world

SOUTH AFRICAN TOUR:

Lee Westwood cemented his year-end World No. 1 ranking with an 8-shot win at the Nedbank Golf Challenge at Sun City. Westwood closed with a 4-under 68, including a chip-in for birdie on the final hole to finish at 17-under 271. Westwood led the 12-player field since Friday, having posted rounds of 68, 64 and 71 and was unchallenged on the final day to win his first Nedbank title. 

LPGA TOUR:

Maria Hjorth closed with a final-round 72 en route to victory at the season-ending LPGA Tour Championship. Third-round leader Amy Yang finished one shot back, making a birdie on the final hole, forcing Hjorth to sink an 8-footer for the win. Cristie Kerr and In-Kyung Kim tied for

3rd, followed by Na Yeon Choi and Laura Diaz. With her top 5 finish, Choi won this year’s money title and also claimed the Vare Trophy for the year’s lowest scoring average.

EUROPEAN TOUR:

Robert Karlsson added a closing bookend to his 2010 season on the PGA European Tour with a second win in the Middle East. Karlsson, who won the Commercialbank Qatar Masters last January, outdueled Ian Poulter in a playoff to capture the season-ending Dubai World Championship. Karlsson got off to an ideal start on Sunday, playing the first three holes birdiebirdie-eagle en route to a 5-under 67 that would give him a share of the lead in regulation at 14-under 274.

2011 PGA TOUR schedule: Date

Jan. 3-9 Jan. 10-16 Jan. 17-23 Jan. 24-30 Jan. 31-Feb. 6 Feb. 7-13 Feb. 14-20 Feb. 21-27 Feb. 28-Mar 6 March 7-13 March 14-20 March 21-27 Mar 28-Apr 3 April 4-10 April 11-17 April 18-24 Apr 25-May 1 May 2-8 May 9-15 May 16-22 May 23-29 May 30-June 5 June 6-12 June 13-19 June 20-26 June 27-July 3 July 4-10 July 11-17 July 18-24 July 25-31 Aug 1-7 Aug 8-14 Aug 15-21 Aug 22-28 Aug 29-Sept. 5 Sept. 12-18 Sept. 19-25 Sept. 26-Oct. 2 Oct. 3-9 Oct. 10-16 Oct. 17-23 Oct. 24-30 Oct. 31-Nov. 6 Nov. 14-20 Nov. 21-27

Tournament

Hyundai Tournament of Champions Sony Open in Hawaii Bob Hope Classic Farmers Insurance Open Waste Management Phoenix Open AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am Northern Trust Open World Golf C’ships-Accenture Match Play Champ. Mayakoba Golf Classic at Riviera Maya-Cancun The Honda Classic World Golf Championships-Cadillac Championship Puerto Rico Open presented seepuertorico.com Transitions Championship Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by MasterCard Shell Houston Open The Masters Valero Texas Open The Heritage Zurich Classic of New Orleans Wells Fargo Championship THE PLAYERS Championship Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial HP Byron Nelson Championship The Memorial Tournament presented by Nationwide Insurance FedEx St. Jude Classic U.S. Open Travelers Championship AT&T National John Deere Classic The Open Championship Viking Classic RBC Canadian Open The Greenbrier Classic World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational Reno-Tahoe Open PGA Championship Wyndham Championship The Barclays Deutsche Bank Championship BMW Championship THE TOUR Championship presented by Coca-Cola Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospitals for Children Open Frys.com Open The McGladrey Classic Children’s Miracle Network Classic CIMB Asia Pacific Classic World Golf Championships-HSBC Champions The Presidents Cup OMEGA Mission Hills World Cup

European Tour Events Date

Jan 07-10 Jan 14-17 Jan 21-24 Jan 28-31 Feb 04-07 Feb 11-14 Feb 17-21

Tournament

Africa Open Joburg Open Abu Dhabi Golf Championship Commercialbank Qatar Masters Omega Dubai Desert Classic Avantha Masters WGC - Accenture Match Play Championship

Location

Purse

Kapalua, Hawaii Honolulu, Hawaii La Quinta, Calif. La Jolla, Calif. Scottsdale, Ariz. Pebble Beach, Calif. Pacific Palisades, Calif. Marana, Ariz. Playa del Carmen, Mexico Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Doral, Fla. Rio Grande, Puerto Rico Palm Harbor, Fla. Orlando, Fla. Humble, Texas Augusta, Ga. San Antonio, Texas Hilton Head Island, S.C. Avondale, La. Charlotte, N.C. Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. Fort Worth, Texas Irving, Texas Dublin, Ohio

$5,600,000 $5,500,000 $5,000,000 $5,800,000 $6,100,000 $6,300,000 $6,500,000 $8,500,000 $3,700,000 $5,700,000 $8,500,000 $3,500,000 $5,500,000 $6,000,000 $5,900,000 $7,500,000* $6,200,000 $5,700,000 $6,400,000 $6,500,000 $9,500,000* $6,200,000 $6,500,000 $6,200,000

Memphis, Tenn. Congressional C.C. Cromwell, Conn. Newtown Square, Pa. Silvis, Ill. Royal St. George’s, England Madison, Miss. Vancouver, B.C. White Sulphur Springs, W. Va. Akron, Ohio Reno, Nev. Johns Creek, Ga. Greensboro, N.C. Edison, N.J. Norton, Mass. Lemont, Ill. Atlanta, Ga. Las Vegas, Nev. San Martin, Calif. St. Simons Island, Ga. Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Selangor, Malaysia Shanghai, China Melbourne, Vic, Australia Hainan Island, China

$5,600,000 $7,500,000* $6,000,000 $6,200,000 $4,500,000 $7,300,000* $3,600,000 $5,200,000 $6,000,000 $8,500,000 $3,000,000 $7,500,000* $5,200,000 $8,000,000 $8,000,000 $8,000,000 $8,000,000 $4,400,000 $5,000,000 $4,000,000 $4,700,000 $6,000,000 $7,000,000 -$7,000,000

Location

Purse

South Africa South Africa United Arab Emirates Doha, Qatar United Arab Emirates New Delhi, India Arizona, USA

€993,900 €1,313,847 €1,504,497 €1,760,945 €1,765,104 €1,488,260 €6,223,417

Senior wins PGA Championship:

Aussie stalwart Pete Senior has won the PGA Championship at Hyatt Regency Coolum, bringing his PGA Championship total to 3, and overtaking Kel Nagle as the oldest PGA Tour of Australasia winner. Senior drained a birdie putt on the 72nd hole of regulation to force a playoff with Geoff Ogilvy, who shot a sizzling 66 in the final round to vault up the leaderboard. The pair moved to the 18th tee for the first playoff hole. After successful drives by both, Ogilvy’s approach to the green left him with a 20m putt for birdie, while Senior’s shot finished around 10m from the flag. Ogilvy’s birdie putt slid about a metre past the hole, leaving him a kneeknocker for Par. Senior drained his par putt, but a missed comebacker by Ogilvy saw his hopes slip away, and gave Peter Senior the victory. For Senior, the win comes 21 years after his first PGA Championship victory in 1989. Unfortunately, the thrilling conclusion to the event was missed by most, as — in another massive failure by TV networks — the event was not shown live on ONE or ONE HD (who instead broadcast a gridiron event from the US).

Thankfully, Australian golf fans were continually updated via the PGA of Australia’s Facebook page, as well as Twitter updates by fans. Australian PGA Championship, OneAsia Leading final round scores – par 72 276–Peter Senior (AUS) 70-67-68-71 276–Geoff Ogilvy (AUS) 70-69-71-66 277–Nick O’Hern (AUS) 70-70-68-69, Peter Fowler (AUS) 66-70-70-71, Andre Stolz (AUS) 67-69-70-71 278–Matthew Griffin (AUS) 68-70-72-68, Richard Green (AUS) 72-68-70-68, Aaron Townsend (AUS) 68-67-70-73, Bobby Gates (USA) 64-69-71-74 279–Akio Sadakata (JPN) 67-72-67-73, John Senden (AUS) 69-65-74-71 280–Liang Wenchong (CHN) 66-68-75-71, Robert Allenby (AUS) 70-68-72-70

AUSTRALASIAN TOUR:

Geoff Ogilvy claimed his first Australian Open title with a four-shot victory at The Lakes. He finished at 19-under 269, holding off Matt Jones and Alistair Presnell who finished joint runnerup at 15-under 273. The win is the second of the year for Ogilvy, coming almost 11 months after winning the PGA TOUR’s season-opening SBS Championship in Hawaii.

World Rankings as at Tuesday, 7 December 2010 Top 20 World Rankings in Australasia Top 20 Rolex World Rankings in Australia 1. Adam Scott (21 in the world) 2. Robert Allenby (22) 3. Geoff Ogilvy (31) 4. Jason Day (37) 5. Brendan Jones (57) 6. Richard Green (62) 7. Stuart Appleby (74) 8. Michael Sim (78) 9. John Senden (86) 10. Marc Leishman (102) 11. Brett Rumford (110) 12. Mathew Jones (121) 13. Marcus Fraser (140) 14. Greg Chalmers (149) 15. Daniel Gaunt (163) 16. Andrew Dodt (179) 17. Nick O’Hern (182) 18. Steve Elkington (190) 19. Alistair Presnell (230) 20. Cameron Percy (249)

1. Karrie Webb (ranked 14 in world) 2. Katherine Hull (20) 3. Nikki Campbell (46) 4. Lindsey Wright (57) 5. Tamie Durdin (80) 6. Sarah Jane Kenyon (148) 7. Kristie Smith (158) 8. Karen Lunn (174) 9. Sarah Kemp (177) 10. Nikki Garrett (201) 11. Frances Bondad (228) 12. Rachel Hetherington (268) 13. Anna Rawson (276) 14. Rebecca Flood (300) 15. Wendy Doolan (314) 16. Stephanie Na (333) 17. Rachel Bailey (399) 18. Joanne Mills (409) 19. Dana Lacey-Johnston (412) 20. Stacey Keating (480)

Top 5 World Rankings

Top 5 Rolex Rankings

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Lee Westwood (averaged points 9) Tiger Woods (8) Martin Kaymer (7.6) Phil Mickelson (7.1) Jim Furyk (6.5)

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Ji-Yai Shin (11) Suzann Pettersen (10.7) Cristie Kerr (10.7) Na Yeon Choi (10.4) Yani Tseng (10.3)

Follow Titleist online: http://titleistblog.com http://www.twitter.com/titleist http://www.facebook.com/titleistANZ Titleist and FootJoy comprise the major golf brands of the Acushnet Company, an operating company of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE - FO). Stats and recaps courtesy of Acushnet, PGA Tour and the Australian PGA

2011 Victorian Open Championship 6th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9th January 2011 Spring Valley Golf Club

Call (03) 9562 3811 for more information. www.springvalleygolf.com.au Spring Valley Golf Club, Heatherton Road, Clayton South VIC 3169.

Jason Norris, winner 2010

January 2011

28 news............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ www.insidegolf.com.au

Bringing country kids 2 the city RobWillis Two of Australia’s leading golf instructors are set to provide country kids with some city golfing hospitality when they stage a three-day junior golf camp during the April school holidays. Glenn Whittle, the 2008 NSW PGA Teacher of the Year, along with Kurt Stegbauer, the 2009 recipient of the same PGA award, are keen to spread the golfing gospel to youngsters who may not have the same access to quality instruction as their city counterparts and will do so through their Country 2 City Junior Golf Camp. Whittle, currently the head coach at the NSW Institute of Sport and Stegbauer, the professional in charge at the Sutherland Shire Golf Academy, a facility which caters for over 200 junior golfers each week, boast extensive experience in terms of junior development, both having toured country regions in the past as a part of Jack Newton Junior Golf coaching programs. In emphasising their expertise in the area of junior development, Stegbauer recently made a presentation on junior golf instruction to over 700 of his colleagues at the bi-annual PGA Australia Coaching Summit, while Whittle was instrumental in setting up the PGA’s junior golf program before turning his attention to coaching elite players at the NSWIS. The pair estimates that between them they have taught over 100,000 children to play golf and they are genuinely excited about their Country 2 City Camp. Both look forward to hosting the young golfers and to delivering a unique golfing experience for the out of town juniors.

Junior golfers using the short game practice facility at The Ridge

The Chaldercot Conference Centre in the Royal National Park “We’ve realised the importance of developing junior golf and it’s our goal to make this the premier junior camp in the country,” Stegbauer said. “ The accommodation at Chaldercot is right on the river, with a swimming pool and a games room. We will also have movies at night and general sporting activities like touch footy and basketball, so there is the guarantee of lots of fun

(left) Kurt Stegbauer and (right) Glenn Whittle

both on the course as well as away from it.” The Country 2 City Junior camp will be held at the Ridge Golf Course and Driving Range in Sydney’s south from April 18 to 20, with attendees to be accommodated at the magnificent Chaldercot Conference Centre, located in the nearby Royal National Park. In addition to coaching from Whittle, Stegbauer and other leading PGA

professionals, juniors will compete in a camp tournament for some excellent prizes while utilising the outstanding course and practice facilities at the Ridge. The three-day program has been designed to give the juniors a golfing education they can take home and benefit from long into the future. The motivation for staging the camp and for providing such an opportunity for country kids originally came from

Stegbauer and Whittle’s experiences with Jack Newton Junior Golf; with the pair having toured the countryside and seen the golfing disadvantages faced by juniors from the bush. “We would go to country golf courses that didn’t have a club pro and it was a great opportunity to give kids some instruction. We provided coaching they wouldn’t otherwise get,” Whittle explained. “It was also a great exercise from a talent ID point of view. Kurt and I went to Coonabarabran in 1999 and we met Rebecca Flood when she was about nine. Since then she’s gone on to be involved in state programs, state teams and now plays professional golf travelling the world,” Whittle said. The camp is open to junior golfers from 12 to 17 years of age and is targeted at juniors from clubs or regions without a local PGA professional. Registrations close on February 17, with spaces at the camp then made available to other country golfers from clubs that have resident pros. A small number of places will also be held open for interested juniors from metro area clubs. The juniors will have adult supervision at all times, both at The Ridge and also while staying at Chaldercot. Individuals interested in attending, or for parents or clubs wanting to send their kids to ‘the big smoke’ for what promises to be a memorable and valuable golfing experience, should go to www.theridgegolf.com.au to register and/or to access more information. Alternatively, Stegbauer would be happy to answer all questions in relation to the Country 2 City Junior golf Camp. He can be contacted on 0414 328 654.

January 2011

30 feature............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... www.insidegolf.com.au

Golfing beauty is in the eye of the beholder RobWillis The Lakes golf course and its somewhat radical re-design, prompted much discussion and debate during the Australian Open. Mike Clayton and his design team had come in, taken out tea tree, changed all 18 greens and altered the characteristics of a number of the holes, with the results there for all to see in full living colour during the Open telecast last month. Greg Norman was less than impressed; Craig Parry likewise, while Paul Gow on his ONE HD golf program was bordering on scathing in his criticism. Some club members were said to be looking for a nearby course to join to enjoy their golf on a Saturday afternoon, while others expressed that once they had worked out what the changes were all about they were happy to continue to call The Lakes their golfing home. The course certainly polarised opinions. Geoff Ogilvy must have liked it, then again as a partner in Clayton’s design business he would have to say that anyway. Ogilvy however, with the quality of his play at the Australian Open showed there is a way to play the course. You just have to be really good to execute the shots the way the redesign demands. Personally, I am also on the fence to a degree. Coming from a position where I had played the ‘old’ Lakes hundreds of times, I liked some bits of the new course—wasn’t so sure about others— but overall thought it still felt like The Lakes

I knew and loved. It will remain tough in the wind, not too bad on a nice day and will always provide members, visitors and golf pros with an interesting golfing experience. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder when it comes to a lot of things, golf courses and golf course design included. As for The Lakes, some of it was attractive, other bits not so much, but overall you would have no hesitation in giving it a second glance. So rather than bore readers of Inside Golf with my ramblings on the new Lakes layout, I thought I would consider the golf courses I played in 2010, list my favourites and offer why I enjoyed playing them. I will say that my opinions are very much biased, more often than not having a lot to do with the company on the day and the quality of my golf. The intricacies of golf course design certainly weren’t a determining factor for making my list. By my rough estimation I played almost 30 different courses throughout 2010 and while we don’t have enough space to go over them all, here are my top 10 courses that made an impression, mostly for reasons other than the shape of greens, the positioning of bunkers or for fancy design features.

No 1. Elanora

My favourite for 2010 was Elanora, a course located high up on the hill overlooking the far end of Sydney’s Northern beaches. In the fair dinkum department, if this course isn’t one of the best

Greg Norman wasn’t alone in his criticism of the redesign of The Lakes three in Sydney, I’ll give it away. The views from most tees are spectacular, the revamped layout is challenging and the presentation of the course was first class. The greens were the fastest that I putted on all year – and by a long way.

No 2. Mt Broughton

Located in the NSW Southern Highlands, Mt Broughton is a magnificent links-style layout. Even though I played it on a day where it felt like it should snow and the temperature never rose above 10 degrees, I loved every moment and pretty much every hole. The only pity is there weren’t more people playing it. The par-three second, back into the wind off the back tee was a threewood for me and the most memorable hole on the

course. Would love to go back and have another go with the sun shining.

No 3. Moonah Links – Open course

I hadn’t been down to Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula to play until early this year and was blown away by the tournament course at Moonah Links. I was also blown away by the sea breeze which whips through the course. Even though it probably isn’t, Moonah looked totally natural, as if they hadn’t moved any earth, rather they just mowed tees and greens on the flat spots and put rakes next to the sandy bits and called them bunkers. I didn’t really know where I was going on a lot of holes and while it was tough, it was probably the most fun I had shooting 80 all year.

“Simply just a great golf course”

The Classic Tom Doak designed St Andrews Beach Golf Course is currently rated as the 10th Best Course by Golf Australia. We are open 7 days a week with full public access at affordable pricing and our group bookings have the option of using the self catered BBQ facilities on site. Now with new owners, Season Passes are available and with plans for a new clubhouse, accommodation and second championship course St Andrews Beach will become one of Australia's premiere golfing destinations.

Contact: 03 5988 6000 OR Book Online: www.standrewsbeachgolf.com.au 209 SANDY ROAD • ST ANDREWS BEACH • VICTORIA 3941

Operated by

feature 31

No 4. Twin Creeks

I’ve had the chance to play Twin Creeks in Sydney’s west about half a dozen times and each time I thoroughly enjoy the experience. A Graham Marsh design, Twin Creeks has a great mix of holes, excellent greens and from the back tees is a formidable challenge. The par-five ninth is an excellent hole, while 11 and 12 throw down a challenge for those good enough to take it on. I love this course and I am hoping to get back out there in 2011.

No 5. The Lakes

I will just offer a quick assessment. Everybody else said what they thought so I figured I’d do likewise. The greens are probably overdone with the many tiers, limiting the pin positions available and the ability to make the putting surfaces quick, but I liked the cleanout of the tea-tree, giving the course the links-style feel it probably once had (I’m old, but even before my time). The Lakes plays differently every day you go out and is always presented in pristine fashion. And in my humble opinion, whether pre or post the revamp, there isn’t a poor hole on the back nine. It remains one of my favourites in Sydney.

No 6. Dunheved

Where? My interstate readers may ask. Dunheved is a course situated in St Mary’s towards Penrith west of Sydney. I was, once upon a time, a regular at the Dunheved Pro-am and this year was generously granted an invitation by President Declan to return. I didn’t shoot a great score (to the contrary as a matter of fact) but the course was in fantastic shape, better than I remember it from 10 years prior, and overall it was a pleasure to play. Tight tree-lined fairways and the greens were excellent. The best part of Dunheved however, is that it is probably the friendliest club in Sydney.

The 12th hole of the Graham Marsh-designed Twin Creeks

No 7. Cronulla

I play Cronulla reasonably often and like many courses about town it has undergone a minor revamp, with the new holes, in my opinion, improving the course considerably. Now with the condition markedly better under the direction of a new greenkeeper, Cronulla is again an extremely pleasant course to play. If my son invites me to join him, hopefully I will get to play Cronulla on a semi-regular basis once again in 2011.

No 8. Chatswood

Now while those who know Chatswood may ridicule my mere mention, let me say I enjoyed Chatswood and all its par-threes. And there are plenty of them. Before continuing I will make an admission and reveal that I am talking through my kick, as I had my best pro-am result of the

year finishing tied for third. It is for that reason, and because I love the tee shot on the 10th up in front of the clubhouse, that Chatswood makes my list.

No 9. New Brighton

You all read those Q and A’s which ask you to name the course you would play and who you would play with if your next game of golf was your last. I would say Tiger Woods, Tom Watson and my son Corey, and it would be at New Brighton. It was the course I grew up on and while I didn’t get out there as much as I would have liked last year, the boys who played it in the pre-qualifying for the Australian Open said greenkeeper Norm had the course looking good. I think I could get Tiger around there if I had the chance so with some big plans for New

We get golf.

Brighton in the near future, I just hope the course retains its current character and feel.

No 10. The Ridge

Only nine holes at this stage but I reckon this is the best conditioned public course of its kind anywhere in the country. I will declare my affiliation as I sometimes do some work out there for resident professionals Kurt and Gary, but in mentioning that, I would also say I love cruising around a course which has a good variety of holes. The second, third and fourth aren’t overly long but are interesting par fours and the seventh would be a tough hole on whatever course you put it. It will be interesting when the Ridge is expanded from nine to 18 holes. Also has easily the best short game practice area for a public facility anywhere in Sydney.

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January 2011

32 gear.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. www.insidegolf.com.au

The grass is always

greener... at the pro shop!

RichardFellner It’s a common story these days: Boy wants golf club. Boy buys golf club from overseas website or eBay. Boy receives golf club. Golf club is dodgy or ineffective. Boy cries. Golf club gets relegated to garage. The Inside Golf mailbox is full of similar accounts of golfers purchasing equipment online –hoping to get a better deal than from their local pro shop – only to be bitterly disappointed with the final product. Buying equipment online may seem like a cost-effective alternative to buying locally. But with counterfeiting on the rise, the internet can be a dark and dangerous place to get your gear. Plus, without a qualified professional helping you choose the right gear, there’s no guarantee that you’re even getting the right brand for your game. While buying gear from a pro shop may have once been considered too expensive or overpriced, in today’s economy nothing could be farther from the truth. In fact, your local pro shop may actually be able to save you money when buying your golf equipment, especially if they are a member of a Buying Group. Buying Groups are not new. In fact, they have been around for years. There are three major golf buying groups in Australia: On Course, Performance Golf and Leading Edge Golf. All three have been helping club professionals in the “Green Grass” retail industry improve their costs and services dramatically. “The On Course group was started to help Professional Golfers compete on price with other golf retailers. Now, buying at your local Pro Shop can be just as economical as buying from big golf retailers or online, with the added benefit of a Golf Professional’s assistance and advice,” explains Geoff Zarth, General Manager of On Course. Buying groups offer multiple benefits to your club pro, including bulk pricing, access to a massive range of top-of-the-line equipment and reduced operational costs through increased efficiency in marketing and billing. This helps your club pro to reduce their costs and

effectively compete with larger retailers and online discounters. “The needs of the green grass Golf Retailer are constantly evolving, and as such the sales strategies and retail tools required must evolve with it. At Leading Edge, we have been helping independents to develop and grow their businesses since 1986, increasing their sales through lower costs and the added benefits that a membership to a buying group offers,” explains Mark Robertson, General Manager of Leading Edge. These sentiments are echoed across the country by golf professionals like Peter Manzie, Head Professional at The Eastern Golf Club in Melbourne. “Being part of a large buying group such as Leading Edge allows me to access a wider range of products at better prices, which therefore allows me to pass on greater discounts to my members,” Manzie said. Of course, price is just one part of the equation when buying your gear. It’s also critical to buy the right equipment for your game. Just because one brand of club or ball works magic for a PGA Tour Pro (or even your regular playing partner), it may not be suitable for your own game. Do you need regular or stiff shafts? What loft is ideal for your game? Do you need standard or fatter grips? Blades or cavity back? Standard lie angle? Two-piece or three-piece ball? Does your preferred ball match your swing speed and/or club type?... The list goes on and on, and only your local professional can help you safely navigate the myriad options to ensure you are getting the absolute best out of your game. “Golf pro shops have come a long way over the past 10 to 15 years, and I think customers are starting to see real benefits from shopping On Course, especially when they receive expert professional advice on their equipment needs, at no extra cost,” Zarth adds. So the next time you’re considering purchasing some gear – whether it’s a set of clubs or a box of spikes – be sure to check out your local pro shop. You may be pleasantly surprised at what you can get.

Buying from the pro shop is not only affordable, but it can actually improve your game

Top Myths about buying from your local pro:

1. They are more expensive. False. In fact, with the volume purchasing power of your pro’s buying group, your local pro can get extremely competitive prices on top-quality gear. 2. They have a limited selection. False. While the available floor space at your local shop may be limited, they will likely have access to all the major brands, makes and models. And they can usually get it in a fraction of the time of purchasing online. 3. The pro will try to sell me a brand that gives him/her the best profit or commission. False. Your local pro will always have your best interest as a main goal. He or she wants you to improve your game. That’s their job. Selling you unsuitable equipment is a lose-lose scenario for everyone. Plus, since they see you on a regular basis, they are infinitely more qualified than anyone to get you fitted with the right gear for your game. 4. All gear is the same, no matter where I buy it. False. With counterfeiting running rampant across the globe—from balls to clubs to shoes and more — one of the very few places that you are guaranteed to get authentic equipment is from your local pro. Also, your golf pro works at a golf course, where you can usually play with demo equipment or trial it on the practice fairway.

Coaching Quick Tips It is vitally important to have a good pre shot routine. Unlike when hitting practice balls, you only get one chance to hit a good shot on the course. Here is a brief example of a pre shot routine, but it is important to develop your own with the assistance of your On Course PGA Professional. Approach the ball from behind and pick an intermediate target no more than a couple of feet away. Square yourself to your intermediate target and make a smooth practice swing, focusing your attention on the upcoming shot. Take your final stance and start your backswing with your own personal swing thought. Go and see your local

Peter Bickley On Course Professional Willunga Golf Club, SA

Professional and find out what is missing in your golf swing!

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January 2011

34 newproducts.................................................................................................................................................................................................. www.insidegolf.com.au Eagles Birdies Links

NEW: Callaway Diablo Octane Driver The new Diablo Octane Driver features revolutionary Forged Composite material in the crown, giving it a significant performance advantage over all-titanium drivers. Combined with Callaway’s hyperbolic face technology and a longer high performance Project X graphite shaft, the Diablo Octane driver is configured to deliver unmatched power through superior design, construction and materials.

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FootJoy ProDry® Lisle Stripe Shirt The ProDry Lisle Golf Shirt is the ultimate high-tech performance garment to wear on the course. The shirt wicks away perspiration, provides outstanding UV sun protection while being extremely comfortable during the golf swing. The garment is also very easy to care for with virtually no wrinkling or shrinkage. Available now in four different colour options.

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FootJoy SPIDR2 Glove The new SPIDR2 glove delivers superior grip for optimum control, especially at high swing speeds. Targeting players of all skill levels, the new SPIDR2 glove optimises grip performance for nearly every playing condition. The digital water resistant leather on the entire palm and fingers of the glove provides the ultimate in grip and control in all weather conditions, while the soft, breathable stretch material located throughout the back of the hand and along the fingers provides a leather-like feel and comfort and consistent fit. The PowerNet™ mesh is integrated into the base area of the thumb and back of the hand, improving flexibility, breathability and provides a more consistent thumb fit. Available in both Men’s Left & Right Hand.

RRP: $22.95 each www.footjoy.com.au or phone 1800 660 535

IceRays SPF 50+ Arm Sleeves

Bionic Glove (Classic) Bionic is the only golf glove designed by an orthopaedic hand surgeon. With a conventional glove, you compensate for the unevenness of your hand by squeezing the club too hard. That tightens the muscles in your hand and arm. With the Bionic glove design, you instinctively adopt a lighter grip. Your new lighter, more relaxed bionic grip will increase swing speed and add distance. Because your hand has more surface contact with the club, you have more control. This keeps the clubface from twisting, improving accuracy. Gloves are crafted from top grade cabretta leather – they feel like a second skin. www.bionicgloves.com.au or phone 1800 023 429.

Golfers have one of the highest rates of sun cancers of any sport. Exposing your arms to the dangerous hot sun on those summer days is very dangerous. Long sleeves are hot and uncomfortable and greasy sun block creams have to be applied several times throughout the game. But a new Australian Company have come up with the answer. IceRays UV 50+ Cooling Arm Sleeves are comfy to wear, with no exposed elastic or seams and come in 7 colours to suit all your short sleeve golf shirts. They have been lab tested for UV protection. One size fits all, for male or female and are sold in pairs in a small reusable zip plastic bag to hang on your golf bag.

RRP: $29.95 www.icerays.com.au or phone 0429 690 662

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Balance and stability are critical to any golf swing. Improving these key areas starts with your foundation and stance – especially in the feet.

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Axign Biomechanical Golf Orthotics provide total contact with the feet to protect and support the entire plantar fascia. This not only prevents and treats common foot issues (like heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, tendonitis and dorsal compression syndrome) but also provides solid grounding to the entire foot, improving balance and stability by 100%. The improved stability provides an anchor and firm grounding for the golf swing, helping prevent ankle, knee, hips and lower back injuries,while also reducing foot fatigue. “Initially I was a sceptic but having worn the Axign Biomechanical Golf Orthotics myself and getting positive feedback from several top PGA coaches and tour players I truly recommend this product as a golf improvement and teaching aid. The result of having a firm foundation avoids the feeling of hitting a moving target and puts the player into a more athletic and stronger position to hit the ball.” – Sean Kirschenberg, PGA Head Professional.

RRP: From $99/pair www.axign.com.au

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CLUB FITTING

Every golfer has a unique swing and every golfer needs some element of customization with their equipment. A large percentage of players will make compensations to fit their equipment. This will dramatically reduce improvement and not allow the players to reach their full potential. For best results you must visit the practice fairway for a dynamic fitting. This is where you can see the importance of ball flight. Golf PGA Professionals understand the swing and can better analyse the effects on ball flight related to an individual’s body motion. All major manufacturers will be able to make a set of clubs to your exact specifications. This will come at no extra cost; all players need to take advantage of this service. So see your local Golf PGA Professional and experience dramatic improvements in all facets of your game.

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January 2011

36 puttingfeature.......................................................................................................................................................................................... www.insidegolf.com.au

How to choose the right putter for your stroke BrentGerman With putting counting for more than 40% of your score, and the putter being used more times than any other club in the bag, it is very important to choose a putter that is right for you. But with so many putters on the market, and with different variables to be taken into account (including the speed of the greens at your home course, your own personal stroke, etc), just how should you go about choosing a putter to ensure that it is a good match? First of all, when you are looking for a putter, you need to assess the speed of the greens of the course you regularly play at. If the greens you play on are fast and the grass is short, a light putter may suit you best. Conversely if your greens are slow or the grass is long, a heavier type of putter would be your cup of tea. Next, you should determine the type of stroke you play. Do you have an arcing stroke (where the putterhead moves in an inside-to-square-toinside motion), or do you have more of a pendulum stroke (where the putterface stays square to target throughout)? Finally, you need to think about the length of shaft. Are you more suited to a standard length, or would a belly/broomstick putter be better for your game? Let’s look at a couple of putter styles, and show how they can affect your game.

Mallet vs Blade

Do you know the difference between, say, an Odyssey 2-Ball mallet putter versus an Odyssey 2-Ball blade putter?

Firstly, the 2-Ball mallet is face balanced. So when you balance the putter shaft on your finger, the putterface actually faces the sky. This promotes a straight back-straight through motion (i.e. a pendulum stroke). The lined putter option also assists your aiming. An Odyssey 2-Ball blade putter, on the other hand, features toe weighting. In this case, when you balance the shaft on your finger, the toe is closer to the ground than the heel. It suits the inside-to square-to inside putting motion. Many instructors (myself included) believe that the putter needs to work in an arc as the shaft is not vertical to the playing surface. This would suit a putter with a hands-and-arm stroke. With an offset shaft, the 2-Ball blade allows you to keep your hands ahead for better acceleration and better contact.

Standard Blade Putters

Ben Crenshaw, probably the best putter of all time, has an inside-to square-to inside putting stroke. He uses a lightweight blade, toe-weighted putter (the toe of his putter actually faces the ground when balanced on the finger) as he is always putting on fast greens. Phil Mickelson won the 2010 US Masters using a toe-weighted putter. Phil has used a putter 31.5 inches long (3.5 inches under standard length) while many regular tour players use putters at 33 inches (2 inches shorter than standard). The characteristics of both of these putters are different in regards to their sweet spot. The 2-Ball mallet is larger in diameter and has a high Moment Of Inertia (MOI) and actual size volume

(left) A 2-Ball blade putter and (right) A 2-Ball mallet putter compared to the 2-Ball blade; the 2-Ball Mallet has a larger sweet spot which is better for offcentre hits and will help you get the ball to the hole more often. A putter with a low MOI (i.e. smaller head and small in distance between the face and the back of the putter – like Ben Crenshaw’s putter) can be harder to find the sweet spot for some players. It is smaller and conversely may make it harder for you to get the ball to the hole. But many players with an arcing stroke tend to prefer a blade. In any case, if your putter does not match your

type of putting stroke, you will likely miss more putts than you make.

Length

How do you know if a broomstick, belly, chest or standard putter is the best option for you? The length of a standard putter is 35 inches. Interestingly, this length was devised for marketing purposes only, as it was easier for a consumer to see and grab a putter from a golf bag when on display in the pro shop. A Broomstick putter is 45 inches, whereas a belly

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puttingfeature 37

putter or chest putter is generally 41 to 43 inches. When choosing a putter, you want the putter head to sit flat on the ground at address when you are in posture and in a relaxed position in set up. But don’t manipulate your wrist angle at set up to get the putter face flat on the ground. You want to maintain a relaxed set up position. Note: If you were to buy a standard length putter and have it cut to make it shorter, you will lose the mass weight, and the putter will be thrown out of balance (similar to a car tyre wheel alignment).

Loft & head design

A face-balanced butter will aim the putter face towards the sky

Loft accounts for 90% of distance control on all putts, with 10% accounting for direction control. Distance control is the most important factor when putting. John Daly (Winner of 2 British Opens) was really struggling with his putting at one stage in his career. His putter only had 2 degrees of loft on it. John isn’t the type of guy who wants to hear any technical advice, so Stan Utley (a world-leading putting coach) told John’s caddie to bend the putter to about 5 degrees of loft. John went out and won the next week because he felt better over the ball (but he didn’t know why.) It is much easier to putt well with your hands ahead of the ball at impact, which also produces a better strike. Having a milled-face putter can increase the amount of loft on the putter. When you use a putter with no loft you are instinctively going to set your hands behind the ball at address which makes it very difficult to putt consistently. This is a common problem that I see with my students. It’s important to get the loft right for your putting stroke, so it’s best to see your local PGA Pro to determine which loft is best for you.

A pendulum stroke A toe-weighted putter (like this older blade putter) will point the toe towards the ground

Getting fit for a putter

I us e TOM I Profe ss iona l S of t w are (www.tomi.com) to fit putters to my students. It is the only personalized putting training device that captures the critical parameters of your putting stroke in real-time (i.e. Alignment at Address, Alignment at Impact, Path at Impact, Stroke Path and Rotation, Shaft Angle, Impact Spot, Speed at Impact and Stroke Tempo). From this data, TOMI can instantly tell you what you need to do to

dramatically improve your putting. This advanced technology is extremely beneficial to helping fit a putter to your own personal stroke, and it is also useful to improve your putting technique. At the end of the day, what we are trying to accomplish with putting is to return the putter face to square at impact, and hit the sweet spot. This determines our accuracy and helps you have the least amount of putts as possible. If we choose a putter that suits your stroke and your budget, I

Antill Park ip bersh m e Full M rom f

inside target line

inside target line An arcing stroke

am sure you will see your putting improve. Best to experiment with all types to find out what suits you best. Brent German is an AAA Accredited PGA Golf Teaching Professional at Albert Park Driving Range in Melbourne. Visit www.BrentGermanGolf.com or call Brent on 0412 533 555 for more information. Online bookings http://ignitegolf.com.au/brent_german

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January 2011

38 puttingfeature.......................................................................................................................................................................................... www.insidegolf.com.au

A putting primer LisaNewling LoraineLambert Most people who want to improve their golf swing have no problem taking a lesson. Many amateur golfers are under the impression they can’t be taught putting often saying “I don’t need a lesson on putting, it’s just practise I can figure it out” or “you’re either a good putter or you’re not!” This is not true. The angles required for setting up correctly are important and having suitable equipment is also very important. Why is it that many golfers spend $500 on a new driver for 14 to 18 shots a round, and will balk at spending a decent amount of money on a good putter which is used around 36 times a round? If you struggle with your putting, make the time to have a lesson and have your putter checked out. Experienced eyes are better than your playing partner’s opinions.

Putting technique

Grip – It is important that the hands work together. Grip pressure is also very important: you need to be able to feel the weight of the putterhead, if you can’t feel it you are hanging on too tight. There are many variations on the grip. Most common are: • Palm to palm • Reverse overlap • Left hand low

Palm to palm or overlap

Reverse overlap

Left hand low

There are also different size putter grips available that are fitted to your putter to slow the rotation of your hands.

• Length of putter is important - If the length and lie of your putter is incorrect this will affect the way you set up. This will also affect your stroke. Putters can be ordered in different lengths. It’s a good idea to be fitted for your putter. • Ball position – Should be slightly ahead of centre, in other words, closer to your left foot for right handed golfers. This helps strike the ball as the putterhead is on its way up and will give you a better roll. • Balance – Stand how you best feel balanced. The lower body needs to stay still as the upper body moves. • Putting Stroke

• Shoulders and Hands - Move together. The shoulder movement is a very small rocking motion. If the shoulders stay still you will have a very wristy putting action which can be hard to reproduce. • Putting Arc – We like to see the putter move slightly on the inside the target line on the backswing, square up at impact and then back on the inside of the target line on the follow through. • Length of swing – Many things will influence how far you need to swing the putter. The length of your putt, uphill or downhill, are the greens soft or hard, are the greens wet or dry, etc. And the wind will also influence what the ball does.

Set up

This can vary depending on the lie angle of the putter. Lie angle is the angle the shaft comes out of the head of the putter. • Posture - Tilt forward from your waist with a flat back and a slight knee bend. • Aim to have your eyes over the ball - To check this yourself, take your set up and have a spare ball in your pocket, hold the spare ball between your eyes and drop it. Where the ball lands is where your eyes are positioned.

puttingfeature 39

• As a general rule we like to see the follow through slightly longer than the backswing. You must accelerate the putterhead for all putts; a well struck ball will roll better and hold its line. • Tempo – You need to find your consistent tempo. It varies from person to person. To help you feel the speed of the movement required, try rolling a few balls on a putting green with your dominant hand.

Reading greens

• When you get to the green, have a look at the overall shape of the green. Then have a look at where the hole is and where your ball is. Walking to your ball, look at the area around the hole, mark your ball and take four or five paces back behind your ball, squat down to have a look at your putt, you can see much more when you get down to the ground level. Be quick doing this and go with your gut instinct. • Aim – Most golf ball companies have a line on their golf balls now, this is to help you aim. When you look straight down the line of the putt, pick your spot to aim and aim the line on your ball to that spot. Often when you stand over the ball the aim looks wrong; this is because your eyes are now looking across the line, trust your first decision and commit to that line.

The yips

The medical term for the Yips is Focal Dystonia, this is where the messages between the brain and hands get mixed up and cause an involuntary movement in the hands. Instructor Hank Haney has said – from a study he has been involved in — that 30% of golfers have the Yips and of that 30%, 70% didn’t know it. They just owned a lot of putters! This can happen at any time in your life, I have seen beginner golfers, club golfers of all ages and even golf professionals suffer from the Yips.

Broomstick

Hands rotated under

Saw grip

Do you have the yips?

• Thick Putter Grips • Belly Putter • Broomstick We find quite a few people are still reluctant to change to a Belly Putter or a Broomstick, because it’s different. If you have the Yips in both hands often

this is the best option. Often these changes are hard to work on alone. Make time to see your PGA Professional or visit us at Sapphire Coast Golf School. We hope these tips help you improve your Putting and lower your scores. 

A simple test you can do next time you go out for some practice: choose a putt about a meter long. Hold the putter in your right hand only; place your left hand across your chest so your left hand rests on the right side of your chest. Hit a few putts and see if it feels smooth, if you can’t control the movement there is a very good chance you have the Yips. Do the same with your left hand. This will tell you which hand has the problem, from there you need to work out a grip that will take the affected hand out of play. Grips and alternate methods for the Yips • Saw Grip • Left hand low

About Lisa Newling and Loraine Lambert

Lisa Newling and Loraine Lambert are the club professionals at Eden Garden’s Country Club on the far South Coast of NSW. Eden has a beautiful 18-hole Championship Golf Course and is a great holiday destination. Lisa and Loraine have extensive Playing and Teaching experience. For more information, phone: 02 6496 1054 or visit www.sapphirecoastgolfschool.com.au

January 2011

40 puttingfeature.......................................................................................................................................................................................... www.insidegolf.com.au

Confessions

of a

yipper

DavidWilliams

There are a few words and phrases which golfers not only don’t like hearing but don’t like experiencing. “Shank” and “Yip” are part of the golfing vocabulary, and when mentioned in a sentence often produce anything from a laugh or a cringe (depending on whether you’re a witness or the victim). My name is David Williams and I was a yipper. So, what are the yips exactly? The following definition is taken straight from an online dictionary: Yips – the Informal (in sport, originally especially golf) nervous twitching or tension that destroys concentration and spoils performance.

What happened to me?

Growing up, I used a bullseye blade putter and holed everything. No alignment aids, peripheral weighting or special putting stroke. I just had a simple putter and the uninhibited mind that most kids possess when it comes to playing golf. So what changed? Honestly, I simply do not know. Do I hold a secret to fixing the yips? No. But I have emerged from the other side of having the yips, and the following is my experience and what has helped me.

I found one of the main causes that triggered my case of yips was an alignment issue. The shorter the putting stroke, the less time I had to correct my misalignment during the swing. I was better at putting from a distance than nearer to the hole. I could feel I had a nervous twitch through impact which would shake the putter face at the time when it should be stable and straight. I tried practicing with my eyes closed, pre shot routines, mantras and different techniques, but the yips never really left me.

The Realisation

I was in the first year of my traineeship and was averaging a very high number of fairways and greens hit per round but also a very high number or putts per round. It took a moment of calculated madness which helped me improve my putting. After playing a 36-hole tournament and finishing even par with 72 putts, I remember thinking to myself ‘I have been putting badly with this putter for too long now but haven’t done anything about it.’ I took my putter and walked out of sight of everyone and calmly snapped the shaft over my knee. I certainly didn’t do it in anger but more a frustration that I was persisting with something I was not fixing nor improving.

Using a heavy putter can help release tension in the hands, leading to a smoother stroke The next day, I set about finding a putter with which I could start on the road to improving my putting stats and scoring. A pro mate of mine suggested I try the broomstick he had in the boot of his car. I proceeded to drain 5 x 20 foot putts in a row, but what shocked me was there was no nervous twitch at impact. At a trainee event that afternoon – the borrowed putter in hand — I shot a few under and holed everything less than 6 feet, and didn’t have a 3-putt green. I finished second

on the day and with my prize money, bought a broomstick putter. I wondered whether I had sold my soul to the devil by buying that broomstick, but I no longer had the yips. I was cured. Or so I thought. The broomstick had helped me to great heights during my traineeship. I won consecutive Victorian Trainee Championships and won the Australian Order of Merit in my final year. Was I a great putter? No, but I wasn’t a bad one anymore.

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puttingfeature 41

Cured Perhaps?

After a long layoff through injury, I picked up the short putter one night before leaving for a week-long series of Pro-Ams in 2009. It felt good. No nervous twitch and I just applied the pendulum feeling that I had become accustomed too with the broomstick. I went out the next day and, while I did miss a couple of short putts, I had holed enough to shoot 3-under and win the Pro-Am. Amazing, considering I hadn’t touched a club in 6 months and had the short putter in my hands for the first time in nearly 7 years. My expectations were short lived. By the third day I was back to putting with the yips and a nervous twitch. I was not cured of the yips at all; the broomstick had simply given me a way of eliminating my hands from the stroke. Did I run back to my mental savior? I sure did! Back to the broomstick I went thinking that the yips were incurable.

The Turning Point

I believe it was a combination of chance events that happened to help me cure my yips. In May last year, Piranha Golf sent me their new prototype putter to try out. The one thing about this putter that has definitely assisted in curing my yips was the putter’s weight. The head is 450 grams, one of the heavier putters I’ve felt. I believe the heavier putter has taken some tension out of my hands as I feel it nearly swings itself. It stays on plane easier and I am less inclined to try and force my putts now. Is this an advertisement for the Piranha Golf Putter? No. I think any heavier putter would have probably assisted my stroke and helped in curing my yips. At the very same time –I was doing a radio interview with short game gurus “The Stocktons”. Dave, Dave Jnr and Ron have worked with some

Broomstick putters, like those used by Peter Senior, are a very common cure for the Yips of the leading tour professionals of the world: Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Adam Scott and Annika Sorenstam to name a few. During the interview they revealed some of the things they work on with their students to achieve results. I now do two things which I learned in the interview which have improved my putting. 1. Pick a target on my intended line to roll the ball over. 2. Use the following mantra/thought to help focus: “roll the ball into the hole” (vs my old mantras of “hit the putt straight”, “hit it hard enough to get to the hole”, and “Don’t miss it”)

For me, the phrase “Roll the ball into the hole” instills calmness before I putt and I find myself focusing more on trying to do just as the phrase suggests rather than worrying about the process and possible outcome. If I think back, I guess it was similar to my approach when I was growing up and holing putts all the time. Pick the line and try and hole it.

The Real Test

I wanted to put my putting under some pressure now to see if I would wilt and become a nervous wreck over a simple 3-foot putt. I played a few games in the local club competitions with the

members and had very positive results. Not one nervous twitch or any hint of succumbing to the perceived pressures of putting. Playing around the local course in a club competition isn’t a real test, but it was a promising start. I had played a few rounds of golf and felt like I had approached every putt I had with 100% conviction. Even though I was holing more putts, I was even happier with the putts I missed. I was putting positively and giving them a chance of going in. I returned to Numurkah to try and defend what I had managed to win the previous year. I failed miserably, finishing 8 shots behind the leader — but I walked off extremely happy with one aspect of my game. I hadn’t missed a putt less than 5-foot in length and had hit every putt positively and with 100% conviction. Even though I didn’t win the tournament, I did snare a victory— against the fiercest competitor I have come up against: my own brain. This is my story and how I overcame the yips. It’s a terrible mental condition that affects golfers everywhere. Will I have the yips in the future? I’d love to say definitely not and I am 100% cured, but the fact is I don’t know. What I do know is that I once believed that I couldn’t be cured and that I’d never be able to putt confidently again. I definitely never thought I’d be writing an article like this one on how I have overcome it. For a quick video tip on how to hole more putts with confidence, including how to “roll the ball into the hole”, check out www.willowgolf.com.au/?p=995 David Williams is a AAA Rated PGA Professional at Cardinia Beaconhills Golf Links. He can be contacted on (03) 5945 9230, via mobile: 0422 276 142, or at www.willowgolf.com.au

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January 2011

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Fabulous Flatsticks

Now that you know how to select a putter, here are some of the latest and greatest putters to try at your local proshop, Demo Day or retailer. Odyssey White Ice D.A.R.T. Putters “The original 2-Ball putter was the first to use the golf ball as an alignment aid. D.A.R.T. is the next generation of advanced accuracy, allowing golfers to clearly see if they are aiming on the correct line, as well as if they are lined up with the ball. This ensures proper alignment and consistent distance control.” — Austie Rollinson, Odyssey Principal Designer Features & Benefits • Modified in-line blade, with DART alignment, a crank-neck hosel and full-shaft offset. • Direction and Re-alignment Technology • White Ice Insert • Adjustable Weighting System • Perimeter Weighting Available: 15th Feb 2011

Nike Method Putter The revolutionary Method putter with Polymetal Groove Technology provides faster forward roll at impact for the kind of accuracy and consistency demanded by Tour professionals, including Tiger Woods, who used the Method 003 at the Chevron World Challenge. Key features of the Method putter include Multi Material faces, Tungsten Weighted 303 Milled heads and Tour proven shapes.

RRP: $349.99 www.nikegolf.com

RRP: $209 Odyssey Backstryke Blade “Relentless innovation and exploration are vital to making putters that revolutionize the game. It’s with a rebellious and independent flair for design and a dedication to the science of putting that allowed us to develop Backstryke. It’s just the latest example of Odyssey continuing to give golfers cutting edge putters that help put the ball in the hole more often.” — Austie Rollinson, Odyssey Principal Designer Features & Benefits • A T-Shaped blade-mallet hybrid with hi-def alignment and a stroke balanced shaft. • Visible Face Alignment • Forward Press Stabilization • Stroke Balance • White Ice Insert • A.R.T. (Advanced Roll Technology)

RRP: $239

Odyssey Black Series Tour Design #8

“Thanks to extensive work between our design team and our Tour players like Phil and Ernie, we have been able to create these precision milled putters. Almost everything about them is based on direct feedback they give us so we could dial in the shape, feel and finish like nothing Odyssey has ever done before.” — Austie Rollinson, Odyssey Principal Designer Features & Benefits • Classic heel-shafted blade with a slant-neck hosel and half-shaft offset. • Advanced Roll Technology • Deep Black PVD Finish [Physical Vapour Deposition] • TD Milled Face Available: 15th Feb 2011

RRP: $339 Visit www.odysseygolf.com for more information about Odyssey putters.

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puttingfeature 43

Scotty Cameron Studio Select Laguna 2

Scotty Cameron Hollywood

The Scotty Cameron Studio Select family of precision milled 303 Stainless Steel putters feature heel & toe circular sole weights that allow for multiple length options in each model. The new Laguna 2 model will soon be added to the Studio Select Family to complement existing Newport, Laguna, Squareback and Fastback models. The improved high toe profile of Studio Select helps eliminate the tendency to raise the toe at address thereby causing the player to aim left of target

The new California Hollywood model featuring a modified Coronado head design with a pocket will be added to the line to compliment the currently available Coronado, Monterey, Sonoma and Del Mar models. Each Cameron California putter features a draft sole design that keeps the putter square in the playing position for proper alignment and a high toe set-up that reduces the tendency for players to raise the toe and aim left of target.

RRP: $469 ($499 for Heavier weight configuration models.) Please visit titleist.com.au or contact Titleist Customer Service on 1800 660 535 for more information about Scotty Cameron Putters

RRP: $469 ($499 for Heavier weight configuration models.) Please visit titleist.com.au or contact Titleist Customer Service on 1800 660 535 for more information about Scotty Cameron Putters.

New to Australia! TourEdge Backdraft GT+

White is back and better than ever. The high-contrast head and jumbo-size grip in the Backdraft GT+ putters are unique technologies never before combined in putter design. The Backdraft GT+ uses Optic Technology to increase the contrast between the golf ball and the green. The more contrast, the easier an object is to see, and the easier it is for you to focus. The inherent feeling of being focused promotes confidence. In addition, the Backdraft GTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colour eliminates distracting reflections off the clubhead, allowing golfers to concentrate on setting up the perfect line. The GTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jumbo grip helps prevent wrists from breaking down, making it easier to create a pure and fluid putting stroke. In addition, Jumbo grips reduce grip pressure and minimize club head rotation for a softer touch and more pure putting stroke. The new Backdraft GT+ features four designs with a jumbo grip. It comes in a blade and two mallets styles and is available in right and left hand. For more information, call 1300 655 203

Shark Platinum Tour Putter The Platinum Tour P2 is a classic shaped small mallet head. Made from stainless steel with a premium Black Nickel finish and a CMC milled face with a quality aluminium insert to look as good as it performs. Add to this a Shark Tour Lite steel shaft by Apollo and a matching Shark grip by Karakal along with a neoprene putter cover. This quality putter is part of a four putter range to help you ATTACK the course

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O’Hern, Presnell and Fraser entertain Pump Junior Golfers Following torrential rain which left the Twin Waters Golf Club completely under water, the Weather Gods were friendly on day one of the Pump Golf Junior Festival with the sun shining brightly as three of Australia’s leading Tour Pros entertained the junior golfers. Past Australian PGA Championship winner Nick O’Hern, 2010 Australian Open runner up Alistair Presnell and seasoned European Tour player Marcus Fraser took time out from their schedule down the road at Coolum to chat to the juniors about life on tour and as a pro. They then demonstrated the skills that have made them the stars they are with shots on the driving range and tips on how to improve your golf game. The interactive session on the range was the perfect inspiration for the budding young golfers to take to the range themselves for an afternoon of clinics hosted by seven PGA Professionals from around the country. The clinics included chipping, putting, bunker play, driving, and two very important areas which are fundamental to improving your golf – practice skills and fitness. Over the following two days, the 81 golfers from around Australia as well as visitors from New Zealand,

Samoa, New Caledonia and Japan, competed in a two-round event at the Twin Waters Golf Club. The overall winners for boys was Ed Hodge from Victoria (scratch) and Harry Coote

from South Australia (net), while in the girls section Mathilde Gloux from New Caledonia won the scratch and Eleka Moore from NSW took out the net title.

While there was an element of competition to the event, the focus of the Pump Golf Junior Festival is fun, with a jam-packed itinerary of activities outside the golf course.

Staying at the magnificent Novotel Twin Waters Resort, the juniors explored the resort before heading down the road to the Australian PGA Championship, presented by CocaCola for an afternoon. After three days of golf and socialising, bags were packed and the players headed home somewhat exhausted but all having the experience of a lifetime. Attendees at the Pump Golf Junior Festival were drawn out from the pool of net and scratch winners from local Pump Junior Shootout events staged throughout the year. The Shootouts are open to juniors of all levels, as they are focused on giving every junior the opportunity to play in a National Competition and possibly win the trip of a lifetime. For the 81 juniors present in 2010, it was an experience they will never forget, meeting some of the superstars of Australian Golf and taking away invaluable advice but more importantly having fun on and off the golf course, making friends with fellow junior golfers from all around the country and having fun with golf. For more information on Pump Golf visit www.pumpgolf.com or call (03) 8320 1999.

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January 2011

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H.O.W. to chip ScottSimons When chipping, I see a lot of players trying to scoop the ball to try and get it into the air. One of the main reasons people tend to chip poorly is because they tend to flick their wrists or try and scoop the ball into the air. When teaching students, the one thing I tell them all to remember is DOWN = UP. To explain this, if you try and keep a firm left wrist and hit down on the back of the ball, the loft of the golf club will lift the ball into the air. The method I like to use with juniors in particular is called the HOW method, and we use the letters H.O.W. to help them remember the chipping technique. First of all you can chip with any club you like but make sure you practice with the technique and clubs before you take it onto the golf course. Choose a club that you feel comfortable with, and start chipping with that. When chipping, place the ball in the middle of your stance and stand with your feet a little closer together. They do not need to be shoulder width apart. The HOW method works as follows: ands Forward - your hands need to be forward of the ball. For right-handed players, your hands will cover your left knee. pen stance - you should open you stance and body to the target just a little so you can see down your target line better. This will give you a better feel for the chip shot. eight forward - for right-handed players you should have about 60% of your body weight on your left leg so feel like you’re leaning

H O

towards your target just a little bit. Once you have run through this sequence your arms and your golf club will create the letter “Y”. Without moving your wrist, rock your letter Y backwards and forwards. Remember we are only chipping, so the golf club should not go backwards Weight forward or forwards any more than your hip height. As explained earlier, you can chip with any golf club you like. The only thing to remember is that each club will give you a different result, depending on the chip shot you are playing, i.e. a 7-iron will result in the ball running along the Firm left wrist ground a lot more (perfect for the chip and run) whereas using a sand wedge will result in the ball moving higher in the air and not running as much (perfect for trying to chip the ball over a bunker.) Hands cover the Remember, you need to practice this chipping forward knee method and use different clubs to see what results each club produces. If you practice this method it will allow you to take an easy but effective chipping method out on to the golf course and will help you lower your scores. If you are still having problems with your chipping, please go and see you local PGA Golf Professional and they Open stance will help you out. So Golf Queensland until next time, see you Proudly supporting the benefits of golf club memberships on the fairways! Tel: (07) 3252 8155 | Email: info@golfqueensland.org.au

Scott Simons is a AAA-rated Australian PGA Member, and is the Development Officer for Golf Queensland and the Greg Norman Golf Foundation.

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PGAIGI 47

Exciting times ahead for PGA IGI graduates DavidNewbery IS there any better feeling in the world than finally graduating after years of study? Well, if you asked that question to the group of graduating students who recently completed their Professional Golfers Association International Golf Institute (PGA IGI) and Griffith University courses, the answer would be an emphatic “no”. The class of 2010, all 28 of them, breathed a sigh of relief last month when they finally closed their books and put down their pencils for the last time. Then it was off to the swank Arundel Hills Golf Club on Queensland’s Gold Coast for the graduating ceremony. It turned out to be the ideal venue for the graduates to celebrate their achievements with a few quiet drinks and a hearty lunch. Many were joined by their parents who glowed with pride as their offspring were called to the stage and presented with their Diploma of Golf Management certificates from PGA IGI. PGA IGI chief executive officer Tracey Howley addressed the graduates and congratulated them on their achievement. She urged them to continue to strive for excellence and to work hard to achieve their goals in the golf industry. Many students have chosen to pursue a career in administration while others will work towards a career as a touring or teaching professional. The PGA IGI’s Program Development Manager Michael Levick was also on hand to congratulate the graduates.

The PGA IGI class of 2010 celebrate their success at Arundel Hills “The graduation ceremony is an occasion that I know you will long remember,” he told the graduates. “It is an acknowledgement of your hard work, discipline and commitment – with some fun times in between.” Joshua Madden, the PGA IGI’s Marketing and Student Recruitment Coordinator, said it was a great time of the year to see the graduating class move onto the next chapter of golf or administration careers. “They have dedicated themselves to achieving their goals within the golf industry and, as always,

we will be keeping a close eye on them to see where they find their feet,” he added. “This year’s graduates have been a fantastic class and the whole team at PGA IGI has watched them grow and mature during their time with us. “We are all proud of their achievements as they are fantastic young men and women who will be great for the golf industry.” One of the highlights of the graduation ceremony was the light-hearted banter between Michael and Joshua.

Michael suggested, tongue in cheek, the “academic” students had performed slightly better than the “golf ” student, but Joshua was quick to defend the golfers. The exchange kept the students and their parents entertained and both Michael and Joshua eventually agreed to disagree. It was a lovely moment and proved that the PGA IGI is a cool place to study towards a career in the golf industry – no matter what direction (golf or administration). A number of graduates have already secured positions in the golf industry while others are polishing their CVs and adding the word “GRADUATE” in the hope of nailing down a job. One man who was quick off the mark was mature age student Dave Rosenthal, who was offered the job as assistant golf operations at Royal Queensland Golf Club. “It linked in well after I finished my studies,” he said. “I got a great deal out of the PGA IGI course and thought it was a great avenue into the golf industry. “The networking side of things is the biggest advantage and the most positive thing out of the course.” FOOTNOTE: PGA IGI students graduate with Australia’s only Diploma of Golf Management from PGA IGI and a Bachelor of Business degree majoring in Sports Management from Griffith University. For more information about the PGA International Golf Institute programs and how they are delivered, telephone (07) 5657 6116 or go to the website www.pgaigi.com

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January 2011

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Source of Time (An un-rushed Swing) PeterCroker Left Shoulder for the Downswing It has been remarked by a great baseball slugger that when he was in the ‘zone’ it was as if the ball was being pitched slowly and it was about the size of a watermelon (making it easy to hit). Another remarked that he could actually see the stitches on the ball as it was being pitched to him. For these great athletes it was not so much that they had incredible speed but that from their viewpoint, everything was just moving slower. Thus, they seemed to have more time. For a duffer, the shot is almost over before it has even started. For a pro like Sam Snead or Ernie Els, they seems to have all the time in the world. If there was a part of your body which defines time, it would be your left shoulder. You can waste the time you have or you can acquire more time for your swing, depending on how well you employ the following fundamental.

Source of Time–Exercise for the Downswing Take a golf club and go to the top of your backswing. With an absolute minimum of turn in your left shoulder, using your hands, very slowly push the clubhead down towards impact by uncocking the wrists (thumbs down). OK. Now do the same as above only as your hands bring the clubhead down into impact, pull your left shoulder back. Feel rushed? See time disappear? Pulling on the left shoulder to generate speed (spinning out), generates a false sense of power. A rushed swing by definition is one where the left shoulder is pulling your hands forward and not allowing them to release the clubhead down and out through impact You have no time hit the ball!

Source of Time–Exercise for the Backswing If you find yourself “rushing” the backswing then there is one sure way to help slow the start

of your swing down and that is to “PUSH” on the handle with your left hand (for right hander players) at the start of the “Takeaway” while the right hand provides a slight resistance to “PUSH” against. This action will cause the “Handle end” of the club to start away first, dragging the clubhead back low and straight for the first 30 centimeters. From here the clubhead takes on a “swinging” motion and a smooth and slower backswing will result. Using the “hands” in a correct “PUSHING” action both at the start of the backswing and at the transition from backswing to downswing is

at the source of giving you all the time you need to hit long and straight on a consistent basis. Walter Hagen once said: Never hurry and

never worry and take “TIME” to smell the flowers along the way. Time is on your side and the ball is not going anywhere until you hit it.

Peter Croker has been a PGA member since 1971 and has given lessons with his Croker Golf System to professionals including Vijay Singh, Arnold Palmer, Rocco Mediate, Fred Funk, Olin Browne, and Bob Charles. Based at The Dunes Golf Links, he delivers schools, individual lessons, and has an “Online Lesson Program”- www.crokergolfsystem.com Take an Internet Lesson directly from Peter: www.crokergolfsystem.com/Academy/view-your-swing.html You can also contact Peter on 0415 292 549

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Make the hole look as big as a bucket

KurtStegbauer As a junior golfer I once read an article written by Colin Montgomerie about how he practices putting with a tennis ball. The very next day we had junior pennants on, so what do I do? I got out onto the practice putting green using a tennis ball to warm up with. Little did I realise that my fellow junior golfers were looking at me oddly and wondering if I had mistaken the golf clubhouse for the tennis clubhouse. Not knowing what other golfers were saying I continued to practice and then went back to the golf ball. On going back to the golf ball I was pleasantly surprised to see that in fact the hole did look bigger and that I was putting better. During the round, I holed a number of putts with ease as the hole looked huge in comparison to my tiny white golf ball.

oncourseinstruction 49

Ladder and Compass drill MarkVictorsen Putting is 46% of the score, but if you go to most golf clubs the driving range is full and the putting green is empty! I’ll bet if Kerrie Packer was designing a business deal like the game of golf he would look at this statistic and marshall his troops to focus in on the biggest profit centre: putting! The problem with putting is that it’s not as much fun as hitting! To get over this boredom set the putting green up with many drills and change activity after 5 minutes. Try these drills:

Doing the drill is quite simple. All you need to do is take a tennis ball out onto the practice putting green, from inside 6 feet practice hitting 40 putts with the tennis ball from different positions around the hole. After 40 putts with the tennis ball go back to using a golf ball from the same distance. The reason that Montgomerie practiced with a tennis ball was so that when he went back to a golf ball it made the hole look bigger. Now, we all know that the hole isn’t bigger, it simply appears that way. Doing this drill will give you confidence to putt the ball with purpose.

Ladder drill:

Kurt Stegbauer is the 2009 NSW PGA Coach of the Year, and is the Head Professional and Director of Coaching at The Ridge Golf Course and Driving Range. Ph 02 9541 4960 or visit www.theridgegolf.com.au

Use golf tees to create 5 boxes that look like a ladder laying on the ground (About 300x300) and hit balls from 5 meters into the first box (don’t proceed till the ball finishes in the box!), then the second box and so on. This will give you good distance control and you can put some pressure on yourself by working your way up the ladder and see if you can consecutively work up the ladder without missing. If you do miss, it’s back to box 1!

Compass drill:

You need 13 tees needed for this drill. Determine the 4 points of the compass, with the hole in the center. (To do this,

Compass drill measure with the putterhead in the cup and place the first tee at the end of the grip at n/s/e/w). Then measure off and set a second tee a grip length further, then repeat for number 3 tee. Number 13 tee is placed so you know where you started! The task here is to hole 12 putts in a row without missing! If you miss it’s back to your starting point and the score is reset!

As you get better, you can start extending the length of the compass points further from the hole. Mark Victorsen is the Senior Teacher at Pacific Golf Club Brisbane, and was QLD PGA Teacher of the Year in 2008. www.pacificgolf.com.au

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January 2011

50 fitness.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. www.insidegolf.com.au

A fitting start to the new year RichardNizielski Welcome back! I hope you all enjoyed the Christmas break. So, how many of you are looking in the mirror and contemplating all that Christmas cheer? Have you made a New Year’s resolution to get to the gym, get fit and shed the extra kilos? If so, that’s great, but before you go charging to the gym ready to sign-up for the “too good to believe” post-Christmas deals being offered, contemplate this: 80% of people who join a gym in January don’t keep going regularly much past February. For whatever reason, this is what happens. And after 29 years of training and working at gyms, I can confirm that this statement is still true. Getting to gym and training will take up your time, so if you are still keen to get fit for your golf, then a simple home-based gym set-up may be an alternative to consider. Many of my clients train effectively in their own home, with great results. For most of my clients I recommend they need to complete their training program at least three times a week to see benefits and improve. Training at home makes that commitment so much easier for them. A basic home gym set-up doesn’t require too much equipment or space. Here is what I recommend as a starting point for a home gym. All of the equipment can be purchased at a fitness or sports store.

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1. Set of spinlock Dumbbells and 35 kg of weight plates: There is enough weight here for the majority of resistance exercises for golf and using spinlock dumbbells saves on storage space. You can buy these as a prepackaged set. 2. Straight spinlock barbell: Make sure the barbell you buy is compatible with the weights set as some of the bars and weights won’t fit with each other. 3. Adjustable weights bench: A weights bench is a necessity if you are going to train effectively. Having a bench with an adjustable backrest increases the range of exercises your can do in your home gym. 4. 2kg and 3kg Rubber Med-balls: Golf has really embraced the medicine ball as a training tool. They are particularly useful for sequencing drills and increasing power for the golf swing. 5. Fit ball: Sometimes called a Swiss ball, it is commonly used for core stability and abdominal exercises. The Fit ball is a great tool for adding another element to challenge traditional exercises. My advice is to get a good quality Fit ball, one that is anti-burst and holds its shape under load. As a rule, when I buy a Fit ball for a client I order it through my sport physiotherapist’s clinic to make sure I get a quality product. 6. Gym mat: You want to be comfortable while doing floor based exercises, a yoga mat is great as it provides the comfort and rolls up for easy storage

One other item I would include is a mirror for checking form when performing the exercises. Do the sums and weigh up your options; perhaps a home gym set-up combined with a

golf fitness training program suitable for your needs will be just the thing needed to achieving your New Year’s resolution. Happy golfing

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. Richard Nizielski from Golf Fit Solutions can be reached on 0438 027 768 or richardniz@gmail.com and richard@golffitsolutions.com

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The fairways and greens are framed by amazing red earth, which can be tricky to play from

While better known for its gold mining, red earth and blue skies, the Western Australia town of Kalgoorlie-Boulder is soon to be known for its amazing greens, following the launch of the new Kalgoorlie Golf Course. Inside Golf made the trek out west to play this amazing course. RichardFellner We weren’t quite sure what to expect when we landed in the mining town of KalgoorlieBoulder. Visions of ‘the Old West’ came flooding to mind: rough-and-tumble pubs, gruff goldminers and a dry and dusty landscape. But our antiquated visions couldn’t have been further from the truth. In reality, Kalgoorlie is a fairly bustling regional centre with a population of 30,000 and all the modern conveniences of any Australian country town. And now, they can boast to having one of the finest golf courses in Australia. Only a few months old, the brand-new Kalgoorlie Golf Course is an absolute gem, and may very well be one of the most “Australian” courses you will ever play. Designed by Graham Marsh, and owned by the city of KalgoorlieBoulder, this 18-hole par-72 championship track features an extremely playable layout, set in one of the most magnificent settings in the country. Kalgoorlie Golf Course is home to the newly amalgamated Goldfields Golf Club, which brought together three local golf clubs under one roof: Hannans, Kalgoorlie and Boulder. Having played previously on oiled/sand-scrape greens with little or no grass for fairways, the local golfers in the

area weren’t sure what to expect when the city embarked on the Kalgoorlie project. But despite the hurdles and growing pains, it’s safe to say that the golfing residents of Kalgoorlie will soon be the envy of club golfers across the country once word gets out about how good this course is. With six different tee boxes, Kalgoorlie is playable for any—and I mean ANY—skill level. Played from the black tees (yes, we are suckers for punishment), the course measures a staggering 6768m, making it one of the longest courses (if not THE longest) in Australia. The “public” tees are a more manageable 5933m, while other tees are available for members, ladies and even juniors. Most of the holes are quite straight and wide, meaning that you’ll be relatively safe to hit driver throughout the day. But that doesn’t mean the holes are easy; on the contrary, they are anything but. A few of the doglegs – notably the par-4 12th – will require careful club selection and course management if you want any hope of par. The same can be said for holes like the par‑5 9th, which features a massive (yet narrow), threetiered green that slopes from front to back (i.e. AWAY from you), and is guarded by a deep pot bunker on the front-right. If the pin is cut on the first/front tier, prepare for an automatic 3-putt. The par-3s at Kalgoorlie are glorious, especially the 218m 8th. With a slightly raised green,

A pair of kangaroos stand guard in front of the tricky 17th hole strategic bunkers and plenty of danger on each side, it’s the type of hole that can destroy a scorecard. Especially if the wind is in your face. Same with the 202m 17th, which features its own selection of nightmarish bunkers. The par-5s are equally strong. All four of them are solid three-shotters, including the monstrous 15th. Nicknamed the “Golden Mile”, this 569m beauty features a blind second shot, a valley of death along the right, bunkers at every turn and a very treacherous green. A par here feels like a birdie. (Not that I would know.) Of course, the main feature of Kalgoorlie GC is the red earth surrounding the course. It not only “frames” the course in a stunning

visual display, but it also provides a notorious hazard for wayward shots. Playing off the red earth is akin to a soft clay, and requires plenty of practice to master (I had plenty of practice during the round!). The same can be said for the various orange-coloured “waste bunkers” throughout the course: pretty, but deadly. The sparse surrounds beyond the rough means you’ll likely find your wayward shots. But it’s a hollow victory, as the numerous prickly desert shrubs and bushes provide their own layer of peril; it is nigh impossible to play out of many of them. Also, much of the course is slightly “raised” off the ground – so if your ball rolls just off the fairway onto the red earth, you can find yourself

insidetravel 53

COURSE NOTES Kalgoorlie Golf Course 93 Aslett Drive Kalgoorlie WA 6430 Phone: 08 9026 2626 Email: golf@kalgoorliegolfcourse.com Website: www.kalgoorliegolfcourse.com

(above) The view from the tee of the 218m par-3 8th; a monster hole that demands respect. (below) Each hole offers unique challenges and views

Green Fees: 9 holes: $35 (Juniors: $26.25) 18 holes: $55 weekend / $45 midweek (Juniors: $41.25) Member guest: $31.50/$49.50 Motorised cart hire (per person): 9 holes: $14, 18-holes: $20

wedged against a raised grass “lip”, which requires a tricky wedge shot to get back onto the fairway. Despite the fact that the course is brand-new, we were amazed at how playable it already is. Most courses require years of growth before they are as playable as Kalgoorlie is today. The greens (Bent G2) and fairways (Couch wintergrass) are in fantastic condition. Putting is a pleasure, and the greens roll true, despite still being a bit firm in their youth. And it will only get better. This is due to an amazing effort by the staff and greenskeepers (and the course management company,

Accommodation: Stay and play packages are available via Rydges Kalgoorlie www.Rydges.com/Kalgoorlie

the Balcony Restaurant above the Palace Hotel. Prime Golf WA), who have worked tirelessly throughout the project. They have also done a We’re talking Fred Flintstone-sized portions Tourism: great job with the newly-opened The Waterhole here). After dinner, grab a few beers and mingle www.kalgoorlietourism.com restaurant in the clubhouse. The food here is with the locals at one of the historic pubs, or high-quality, and a step beyond the usual golf kick back in your room at one of the 25 local Nightlife: club grub. It’s also great for functions and events. hotels and dream about the next day’s round at Palace Hotel: www.palacehotel.com.au Kalgoorlie GC. With a course of this calibre on offer, Airlines: All in all, Kalgoorlie Golf Course is an amazing Kalgoorlie is a fantastic destination for a Qantas and Skywest Airlines operate daily track with a setting that is second to none. We are quick golfing holiday or even an annual Social flights between Perth and Kalgoorlie‑Boulder. confident that this course will one day find itself Golf Weekend, as it offers world-class golf, The flight takes approximately one hour. listed among Australia’s top rated courses. And comfortable accommodation, and a unique Skywest also offers limited direct flights DAY DATE TIME don’t be surprised if you see large tournaments “frontier town” nightlife scene. (Hint: tryLOCATION one of between Melbourne and Kalgoorlie. (member wednesdayit’s that22nd July 9.30am - 1.30pm hosted hereonly) in the future. Yes, good. the thick and juicy Pepper-crusted eyesanctuary fillets at cove

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January 2011

54 insidetravel......................................................................................................................................................................................................... www.insidegolf.com.au Q&A with Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee

Travel: Thailand

Whilst on holiday in Thailand in 2005, a Swedish investor came upon an impressive tract of land just 15 minutes west of the city of Hua Hin. The picturesque land included huge valleys surrounded by jutting mountains that had large black rocks protruding from their face. And so began the Black Mountain Golf Course, now rated the number one championship course in Thailand. Black Mountain is also the centrepiece for a golf tour to Hua Hin leaving Australia on Saturday March 29th. With two rounds of golf on Black Mountain and two rounds at nearby Banyan Golf Course, travellers will enjoy some amazing golf during the week-long golf holiday. The final round of the 5-day excursion (depending on course conditions) will take part at either Springfield Golf Club or the New Army Course, which has been receiving outstanding reviews from local and overseas visitors. The condition of Black Mountain is never in question. Tour host Brenton Quick was so taken by the outstanding condition of Black Mountain during a recent visit, he wondered if there was some major tournament in the offing. He was assured that the course is kept in near tournament condition year round by the Australian-trained head greenskeeper.

Black Mountain Golf Course Whist golf is the main focus for the week-long trip, the single room accommodation at the new and luxurious Lapa Hotel will keep the group very happy when relaxation is called for. The Lapa is situated on the fringe of the city of Hua Hin and includes a free tuk tuk service into the eating and shopping precinct as one of its many features. Perhaps the best feature of this week-long golf getaway is the price:

Only $2242 plus airport taxes of $425 includes everything. Return airfares, all land travel, all golf and single room accommodation ensure this package lays legitimate claim to being the best value golf trip available in Australia. For more information, or to make a booking, contact Brenton Quick via email at brentonquick@bigpond. com or call 0419 99 09 08. Travel is by Julie Green of Green Getaway Travels.

Thailand’s first and only player to compete in all four major championships, Thongchai Jaidee is becoming a household name in the world of golf, and a proud ambassador for golf in Thailand. Question: Thailand is by far the most popular golf destination for Asians, but other regions may not know much about it. In your view, what recommends golf in Thailand? Thongchai Jaidee: I recommend Golf in Thailand for its year-round golfing, and for the numerous worldclass golf courses. The hospitality of Thai people is the one thing that will impress visitors most when they visit my country. Thailand offers so many relaxing activities — Thai massage, the world’s finest beaches and so many other tourist attractions — but it is Thai hospitality that makes the strongest impression. Q: When you play golf in Thailand, where do you prefer to play? What are your favorite Thai courses and why? TJ: When I am home, I still practice at Jompol Por GC, and Narai Hill Golf and Country Club in Lopburi. These two courses are close to my home and make for easy access. But when I have more time, I will practice at Black Mountain Golf Club, which I can highly recommend for beginners, serious golfers, even professionals. It is one of my favorite courses because it boasts a very challenging layout

and championship-standard course conditions. Also, the way the wind blows up there, it prepares me well for the conditions I can expect when playing in Europe. Q: Lopburi, your hometown, is a rather new area for golf in Thailand. What makes it special and do you recommend golfers visit this area of Thailand? TJ: Well, it’s a bit early to consider Lopburi in the same breath as golf destinations like Hua Hin, Phuket, Rayong or Samui. These regions are home to some of the top resort courses in the world. But the courses in Lopburi do offer a fine challenge to golfers who seek new venues.

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insidearchitecture 55

Plan for the future

RossPerrett

G olf C ours es are living organisms and therefore are constantly changing. Managing this change is a challenge that every golf club or golfing facility must face, and golf course architects can play an important role in this process. It is surprising, however, that very few golf clubs have a clear plan for their long-term future. In traditional golf clubs, the leadership and management is constantly changing as the office bearers generally serve for relatively short periods due the demands of what is usually a honorary position. The Captain is effectively the Chief Executive and is often motivated to leave his/her mark on the course which can lead to unnecessary changes to the course design and management. The changes are well intended but are often short sighted, ad hoc and inevitably have a negative cumulative effect on the course. The Captain is often a respected ‘captain of industry’ having had a successful career, due probably in large part to having had a clear business plan supported by stable leadership and management with expertise in the particular industry. Golf clubs deserve the same approach and will benefit from developing and signing off on a long-term vision for the course and setting in place protocols that will ensure the club is constantly heading in a clear direction. Golf Course Architects can assist clubs in developing and documenting a long-term vision for the course and provide independent professional expertise on a range of related technical issues.

There is not a single golf course that cannot be improved, but every golf course is different and requires an individual approach. If all courses were given a thorough health check, some would pass the fitness test with flying colours whereas some would fail miserably and would require a long-term fitness regimen and/or major surgery. Unfortunately, others choose cosmetic surgery which is only a short-term makeover and not sustainable. In order to rationally assess the current health of a golf course, Thomson Perrett has developed a Course Audit System that provides a comprehensive analysis of all key areas of the course and a logical starting point in a process that leads to the preparation of a Course Masterplan: 1. A Review and Audit of existing conditions. 2. The Identification of the constraints and opportunities to improve the course. 3. Recommendations for improvements and the preparation of a Course Masterplan that formalizes a plan of action. 4. The staged implementation of the Masterplan. Understanding your course is a fundamental starting point as with any health check. The Audit of existing conditions covers a broad range of topics including the site conditions, course history and heritage, financial resources and staff levels, membership/user profile, course layout, length, bunkering and strategy, external and internal safety, the Clubhouse, car parking and practice facilities, turf and maintenance, irrigation and water management, landscape character and sustainability and miscellaneous topics specific to the facility.

The 18th hole at The National’s Ocean Course Following a careful analysis of the course audit a series of recommendations are discussed with key stakeholders of the club management. This interactive process establishes a clear set of objectives and priorities. A Golf Course Masterplan is then developed by the Golf Course Architect which formalizes an agreed scope of work and direction for the club. The Masterplan must be ‘sold’ to the broader golf club in order for it to be adopted as a shared vision and way forward. For example, when designing The Ocean Course for The National, TWP as the course architects produced a detailed report in consultation with the club which sets in stone the expectations for the ongoing management of the course. The Implementation phase follows, and requires considerable time, careful planning, professional expertise, money and resources. It is essential that good communication with members and patrons is maintained throughout in order to manage and satisfy

their expectations. Newsletters, 3D computer visualizations, site inspections and regular forums are all beneficial. It’s desirable to set achievable milestones that can generate enthusiasm and pride as the course is improved. Word of mouth is a powerful ally. In summary, every course is capable of being improved. It is recommended that the club engage a suitably qualified Golf Course Architect to undertake a thorough course Audit and to work with the club’s management to prepare a Course Masterplan that can be logically staged and funded. At all times the management must communicate and respect the members throughout the process. Ross Perrett is Managing Director of Thomson Perrett Golf Course Architects, one of the world’s premier golf course design companies. Together with Australian legend Peter Thomson, Thomson Perrett has worked on over 250 projects around the globe. They can be contacted on +61 3 8698 8000, or via thomsonperrett.com.au.

January 2011

56 people.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... www.insidegolf.com.au

Getting more people to play more golf Australians are playing less golf and that is a concern for Australia’s golfing authorities. David Newbery asks what needs to be done to get more people, including juniors, playing more golf. MARK GIBSON

Chairman of the PGA of Australia “I believe growing the participation of the game is to get more young players, including more females, involved. “From a professional point of view, the junior programs have to make the game interesting and fun. “If we had someone in one in every three facilities around the country dedicated to junior development, we are going to get a whole lot of kids playing golf. “From the administration point of view, we need to get golf clubs on board that they allow kids to go on golf courses. “Golf Australia needs to lead the amateur body and speak in the strongest possible terms to district associations so that they get the golf clubs to get kids on golf courses. “Kids just don’t want to hit golf balls on the range – they want to go out and play the game. “As far as getting females involved, probably much wiser men than me might have better ideas. “It needs a multi-purpose attack where you have very good tuition that makes the females feel comfortable in a safe environment and don’t feel in any way open to ridicule. “And they need to be made welcome at the clubs. Historically, golf clubs have always struggled with women numbers and I guess they need to look at that. “I know Golf Australia want to get more women involved, but I think they need to take more of a proactive

role. I don’t know what they have got to do because I don’t know what they are doing.”

CHARLIE EARP

Coach and Greg Norman Golf Foundation president “One of the big problems is the game’s a bit too costly. “The other problem is they (golfing authorities) brought out new rules where golfers don’t have to be a member of a golf club to get an Australian handicap. “People who play golf eight or 10 times a year can go and play at a resort course in a cart for $70 or $80, put a card in and get a handicap. “So they don’t become members at golf clubs. We’ve brought it on ourselves. “We need to get more kids playing golf and it’s up to the golf clubs and professionals to allow kids on the course.”

Graham Papworth

Golf Course Designer “The Golf Industry Council (GIC) is looking at ways to increase participation so there are smarter heads than mine working on it. The GIC is working on programs to try and get more people into the game – particularly women and younger people. “I think the shorter playing times can be a positive – even if they are competitions for novice golfers then that can only help. “I think shorter playing times for

Industry leaders like Charlie Earp are working hard to get juniors playing more golf, but that is only one step to keeping our game healthy

novice golfers and enjoyment is the other important issue. “And in terms of golf clubs, there should be less protocol. Many golf clubs are pretty staid in their ways from times gone by. “If you make it too strict, younger people are not going to come back again.”

GRAHAM MARSH

Professional and golf course designer “Two things: the game has to be affordable and the other big problem is that many golf courses have become longer and built in locations that require a lot of travel time. “For example, if you live in Melbourne and have to travel to the courses on the Mornington Peninsula for a game it is goodbye to the day. “It’s a two-hour drive down there, a five-hour round and a two-hour drive back means you have blown nine hours on a game of golf. “What’s happening is it’s taking longer to play the game because of where it’s played or the amount of

time it takes to play on these longer courses which are not user-friendly. “The dynamics of our society has changed. There are two bread-winners in the family and that means the husband doesn’t get the time to go off and play as much golf. “Everybody thinks that by building a great golf course and making it a big championship course people want to come and play it. “Well, those golf courses are not necessarily for everybody. Only a handful of golf aficionados want to go and play a great big golf course. “You have got to remember the average handicap in Australia is higher than 15 and they are not skilled enough to play some of those golf courses. “Even from the forward tees it’s difficult for them to play them in a certain period of time. “I k now t he Nat iona l G olf Foundation in America has been actively involved with a number of junior programs – same as Australia. “The golf foundations around the country need to get more young people involved in the sport.”

WAYNE BUCHANAN

Sanctuary Cove director of golf “Accessibility is one answer to the question. “I think a lot of golf courses tend to be occupied by the members on weekends and that’s probably fair enough because they pay fees. “A lot of people (social players) don’t have access to golf courses on weekends and when they do they are very crowded so it becomes a game of golf they don’t enjoy that much.” “Like any club or facility, the future of its business depends on the youth. “What you have to do is encourage junior and youth programs that bring those people through the different programs within the club and they gradually grow with that club and that continues full-cycle.”

YOUR SAY What do you think? What should be done to get more people playing more golf? Email us at ed@insidegolf.com.au, or visit www.insidegolf.com.au and tell us your thoughts.

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January 2011

58 Teeingoff...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... www.insidegolf.com.au

the course

GregDowling Celebrity chef Ian Curley is known in the culinary world as “the carnivore”. And though his nickname derives from his prowess in plating up a top-notch steak, Ian is more than happy to also be described as a “golf nut”. He’s been a fan of the game ever since he first set foot on a fairway about 15 years ago. This month, he begins a determined effort to reach his goal of achieving a single-figure handicap; just as promotions for his new national television show are screened for the first time. The reality program called Conviction Kitchen— which will be televised on Channel 7 for eight successive weeks starting late next month—was shot in an inner-city Brisbane bistro and features a group of ex-criminals trying to resurrect their lives through cooking. Ian takes them on a culinary journey with the aim of arming them with the skills needed to succeed in a commercial kitchen. When he’s not starring in TV shows or out playing on some of our great golf courses, Ian does his best work as executive chef at the prestigious The European, one of Melbourne’s busiest restaurants at the top end of town directly opposite Parliament House. Also operating under the same banner are the City Wine Shop, Melbourne Supper Club and Siglo, a rooftop bar. With three venues, three kitchens and a team of over 30 staff, the pace never quite slows for Ian.

But he does make time to fit regular golf games into his extremely hectic weekly schedule. Ian used to practice and have lessons from yours truly at the Albert Park golf range, when he was involved with the Point Restaurant, only about 500 metres from the range on the other side of Aughtie Drive. He decided to try golf—like a lot of people who don’t work the usual 9-to-5 routine—as something to do to fill in the time. “Because of the hours I work, it was easier for me to get up and go out and play golf and then work at night,” says Ian, a member of The

National and The Heritage with a handicap that fluctuates between 12 and 15. “And it’s always been the same for me since then. I normally have at least two games a week. I love it (golf). I’m fanatical about it.” Ian is highly regarded for his delicious meat dishes, but he’s kept these tips for cooking steak on the barbecue this summer pretty simple. “Get a good cut of meat and make sure to take it out of the fridge in advance for 30 minutes. Make sure the plate is really hot. Don’t use too much oil and only turn it over once. “And it shouldn’t take longer to cook than it does to drink a cold beer on a hot day.”

Calling all course reviewers

Historically, golf course rankings have been written by golf pros, journalists, course architects and industry professionals. The ratings have been based on features like design, condition, length, number of hazards, etc, with sometimes a hint at the “Wow Factor”. And while these rankings are a critical part of golf, it doesn’t always tell the whole story. Isn’t a great golf experience more than just the sum of the parts? For the average punter, a great golf course may simply be one where he or she doesn’t lose a dozen balls in the round. Or perhaps one with wide fairways …or a friendly staff …or just amazing scenery. So, Inside Golf has launched our new “Carpark to the 19th” course experience series: written BY punters, FOR punters. Measuring a golfer’s “Overall Experience” at a course, our Carpark series brings course reviews to those who know it best: everyday Australian golfers! Our course reviews are performed via a course Scorecard, a 36-point checklist which asks golfers around Australia to award points based upon various features of a course. Points from the scorecards are tallied, and then combined with Inside Golf’s internal ratings factors to derive an overall course rating. Inside Golf will tabulate the overall results, and determine the “Golfers’ Choice” Award for Australia’s best golf courses. And our top reviewers will even collect some prizes along the way. The Carpark to the 19th Course Experience Ratings program is open to all golfers. Visit www.insidegolf.com.au to download a copy of the Course Scorecard, or to enter your ratings today.

GOSFORD DRIVING RANGE

Play and Stay

Set in the beautiful Southern Highlands,45 minutes from Liverpool, 1hr from Mascot, 1hr 20 from the Hills District Packages includes a Bistro / Bar voucher for Dinner at the Highlands Golf Club Mittagong, Accommodation, Cooked Breakfast, 18 Holes of Golf with a shared cart. midweek and weekends

$125

*Price per person Twin Share.

First contact - Mittagong Motel email : enquiries@mittagong-motel.com.au Ph. 02 4871 1277 Highlands Golf Club email: admin@highlandsgolf.com.au Club Ph. 02 4871 1995 Pro Shop 02 4871-3274

Located in the centre of Gosford Racecourse off the Pacific Hwy West Gosford. •

Grass Tee Areas

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Premier Mat Areas

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Hire Clubs Available

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Easy Parking

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Golf Pro Lessons

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Also available are packages for school sports days, outings for seniors, birthday parties etc.

Bring in this ad and you will receive a FREE upgrade from a medium bucket of balls to a large bucket

Enquiries Ph (02) 4325 0461 or Skip 0407 210 159 www.gosfordgolfdrivingrange.com

Golflegends 59

Bill Rogers’ year to remember DavidNewbery IN 1981, American Bill Rogers was on the practice range preparing for the Open Championship when a golf writer tapped him on the shoulder and reminded him he was due on the first tee. Rogers wasn’t going to play in the Open at Royal St Georges, but good pal Ben Crenshaw twisted his arm and he made the journey to the Old Dart. But Rogers was almost disqualified before he had teed off because he had misread his starting time. Thankfully, a journalist had his wits about him and Rogers arrived on the tee in the nick of time and started with a steady round of 72. A second round 66 gave him a one-shot lead over Crenshaw and Nick Job, while a third round 67 put him five ahead of Bernhard Langer and Mark James. In the final round, three bogeys in the first seven holes cut his lead to one stroke, but Rogers rallied with three birdies in the next four holes and he cruised to a four-shot victory over Langer. Walking up the 18th fairway, Rogers had his progress checked by a policeman who stopped him among stampeding spectators near the green. Rogers explained who he was and where he was going and shortly after lifted the Claret Jug – his one and only major triumph. Born in Waco, Texas in 1951, Rogers chose to take the college (University of Houston) route to the US PGA Tour. In 1972, he won the prestigious Southern Amateur and a year later was victorious in the All-American Collegiate event. He was picked in the Walker Cup team, but wasn’t considered a key player in the team. Rogers joined the play-for-pay ranks and by 1977 he was 29th in the money list and won the Pacific Masters in Japan. A year later he won his first event on the US PGA Tour – the Bob Hope Classic and in 1979 he finished well up the money list without recording a victory. The tall Texan did win outside the US when he defeated Japan’s Isao Aoki in the World Matchplay at Wentworth in England. It was a marvelous final between two of the world’s best putters. In 1980, Rogers was consistent with two runnerup finishes in the US, but he did win the Suntory Open in Japan. At the time Rogers was third on the statistics list for driving accuracy and one of a handful of players with a scoring average under 71.

A weak grip stopped major winner Bill Rogers reaching his full potential (photo courtesy of Golf Australia) In 1981, Rogers’ consistency had deserted him and he missed five cuts in six tournaments. But by the end of March he was back in the winner’s circle in the US with a victory in the Sea Pines Heritage Classic. In June he won the Open Championship and went on to win the World Series, the Suntory Open in Japan, the Texas Open and reached the semi-final of the World Matchplay. And he finished in a tie for second in the US Open behind Australian David Graham. Graham’s final round of 67 is still talked about as being one of the great final rounds in major championship history. Australian golf fans really got to know Rogers

Canterbury Golf Course

Moorefields Rd Beverly Hills 2209 Ph: (02) 9759 5444

No Bookings Required - 7 days Canterbury is a wonderful Par 34 9 holes Fees are for 7 days Mon - Fri after 2pm every golfer $13 Sat - Sun after 4pm every golfer $13 Concession / Seniors $13

Std 9 hole rate $16.50 Std 18 hole rate $21.50 School children Mon - Fri - holidays $7

when he arrived Down Under and won the New South Wales and Australian Opens to make it five wins in six tournaments. The US PGA Tour named him Player of the Year. His achievements over a six-month period established him as an international winner and one of the stars of the game. Unfortunately, Rogers was unable to stay at the peak of his game and he did not win again although he showed some grit with a strong showing in the US Open. He led after three rounds (70-73-69) at Pebble Beach before his putter went cold and he had to settle for a tie for third behind Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus.

According to swing gurus, Rogers used a closed stance and reached the full shut out position at the top of the backswing. And he possessed a weak left-hand grip with no knuckles showing. But he was a wizard on the greens and had a putting style not dissimilar to Ben Crenshaw. The other unusual thing about Rogers was he never wore a glove. When Rogers turned 50 in 2001 he joined the Champions Tour in the US. He played infrequently and his most notable achievement was winning the team section of the 2002 Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf with Bruce Lietzke, who he roomed with during his university days.

Auburn Golf Course

Weymouth Ave Auburn Ph: (02) 9749 1550

An 18 hole Par 68 - Auburn is a gem Concession / Senior 9 holes 18 holes Weekends

Mon - Fri $14 Mon - Fri $16 Mon - Fri $23 9 holes $16 18 holes $28 Rosnay Golf Club have competition play on Fri, Sat & Sun. Members from other clubs welcome - call (02) 9749 1550 for more information

January 2011

60 lastword..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... www.insidegolf.com.au

LarryCanning When you were watching the Australian Open on TV, you might have noticed the OneAsia Tour symbol on the corner of the screen. This little sucker is the result of the Australian PGA and its Asian neighbours joining forces to combat the current lack of sponsorship dollars. With corporate cash about as scarce as credit on my credit card, both Asia and Australia have pooled their resources, and the result is a healthy OneAsia Tour, which has golfers from all over the world competing for some nice spondooley. While there are many new names that you will soon become familiar with by watching these OneAsia events, I thought I might unearth some interesting info on some of the lesser-known worldwide players who may (or may not) soon compete on the OneAsia Tour. Being the heir to a wealthy computer philanthropist – one who is responsible for creating a website which allows anyone to make a really silly short movie then show it to half a million people who watch it and then say how silly it is — Yu Tube Son has been on the OneAsia Tour since its inception. For this reason, the bighitting 25-year-old tends to play with no thought of the financial consequence, and can often be seen missing the cut for weeks in a row then suddenly taking out a tournament by 28 shots somewhere. Sadly, Danish professional Inder Van Pleeze has gained notoriety for off-the-course behaviour

more than his scores on the OneAsia Tour. In a hotel fight in Bangkok, Inder Van found himself in some serious trouble with the law when he inadvertently took a swing at a lady he thought was a bloke who was actually a detective woman disguised as a bloke trying to look like a woman. No sooner had he regained his balance after the air swing when he was handcuffed and asked to step into the police van. Inder Van Pleeze received a suspension for his behaviour and had to do community service as a prosthetics polisher at Thailand’s most respected sex change clinic. Ji Hy Jung is one of those players who is extremely disciplined and dedicated to the game, which is the result of being brought up by his father, a career soldier in the North Korean Army. When Colonel Ji Hy Jow noticed his son had a special gift to hit a golf ball like a missile, he set his sights on creating the toughest competitor on the tour by training him in a militant fashion, including some rather unusual drills. Ji Hy Jung is rapidly becoming a young player to watch…that is, if you can actually see him. He has developed this habit of hitting a drive then diving into the nearest bunker while yelling “Fire in the Hole!” Rodriguez Sueridge started his apprenticeship as a plumber in Argentina but soon realised his future would lie in draining putts and not plugs. It took his father Jose Seuridge many years to forgive him for leaving the family business to pursue his dream, but now that Rodriguez has struck gold nuggets instead of ….well, you know what… courtesy of their son’s success on the OneAsia Tour, Dad and Mum now have pesos flowing freely.

Porn Pong Sta didn’t start playing golf until he was well into his thirties after retiring from representative Table Tennis through injury. A freak accident occurred when Porn Pong was playing an exhibition match while promoting his new version of the game “Nude-Bat”. During the mixed doubles game, Pong and his partner lost track of whose turn it was to hit and both dived for the same shot. It took officials 20 minutes to separate them. Porn Pong suffered a badly pulled groin muscle from the “Jaws of Life” machine and his partner became pregnant with twins. “Nude

Bat” never took off after that. As you can see, there are some amazing stories behind some of the players on the OneAsia Tour and it was fun (as Jose Suredge always says) digging them up. The next time you watch a tournament on your TV and one of the players suddenly dives into a trap or starts digging a trench in the middle of a green you will have an insight into why and where he has come from. And if you miss the action, there is doubtless a silly video about it online somewhere. Just ask Yu Tube Son.

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the19thhole 61

20 new golf rules for 2011 IT’S that time of the year again. Yep, it’s the silly season and Inside Golf ’s Brian Eagle has put forward 20 suggested new Rules for 2011. To those really serious so-called Rules experts who think we are poking fun at the game, we say “lighten up”. New Rule: New South Wales professional Kurt Barnes to be barred from visiting John Daly’s clothier. New Rule: Golf officials must find a recognisable ‘face’ of the game – not Greg Norman. The Shark is still “the man”, but he’s definitely repaid his debt to Australian golf. New Rule: Television stations to hire cameramen who don’t recognise Tiger Woods. New Rule: Television broadcasters must not present tournament golf as a putting competition. New Rule: Professionals must make time to talk to spectators and sign autographs after each day’s play. Throwing a golf ball to a child is fine, but imagine the joy if the pros stopped and talked to the fans. New Rule: Golf officials to realise the more spectators are involved, the more spectators there are. New Rule: Photographers must stop taking photographs of Mrs Norman’s fingers – all three (wives, not fingers, Phil). New Rule: Senior golfer Peter Senior must stop taking candy from babies in the second tier events – go get ém Pete. New Rule: Gary Player must stop telling everyone he still does 1000 sit-ups a day at the age of 75. It makes armchair critics tired. New Rule: Outspoken greenies must stand on the first tee and let John Daly have a free hit at them – using his driver, of course. We are sick of tree huggers trying to stop golf courses being built.

New Rule: A tournament winner must give the mind credit for winning a championship. We always hear, “I drove the ball well all week” or “my putter was on fire today”. It’s all in the head. Didn’t Ian Baker-Finch say golf is 90 per cent mental and 10 per cent is in the head? New Rule: If a golfer’s golf ball lands within a metre of a brown snake, he can ask his caddie to play the shot for him. New Rule: Golf commentators must stop saying, “Tiger wasn’t happy with a 69.” Sometimes when you are not on top of your game a 69 is alright. New Rule: No more stories about John Daly’s miracle weight-loss program. We know he lost 90kg and looks decidedly thinner in fancy, colourful gear. New Rule: Touring professionals must no longer credit God for a win. Surely, God has more important work to do. New Rule: Touring professionals must smile at least once during a round. Come on, guys and girls, show us your laughing gear. It’s not like you’re in Afghanistan firing golf balls at the Taliban. New Rule: America’s top professionals must play at least five tournaments outside of the US without getting paid appearance money. You’re only a champion if you can win world-wide like Nicklaus, Player, Palmer, Els, Webb, Davies and co. New Rule: Anyone identified screaming “get in the hole” as a player tees off must be forced to carry that player’s bag and a sign displaying the words, “I’m a thick idiot and an embarrassment to my family and friends”. New Rule: No more lame jokes about Tiger Woods. He’s a professional athlete and shouldn’t be mocked. Yeah, right. By the way, did you hear the one about Tiger …(only joking). New Rule: John Daly has to host a reality television show with Shane Warne.

The quick nine quiz by David Newbery 1.

A professional golfer was once described as being longer than War and Peace. Who would that have been?

What was Tiger Woods’ best score for nine holes as a three-year-old – 48, 58 or 68?

How do you qualify for the Bobby Jones Classic?

Who said: “Charisma is winning major championships.” – Greg Norman, Lee Trevino or Tom Watson.

Name one of two players who finished in a tie for second at the 2010 Australian Open at The Lakes?

In golf, what does the term nap mean?

Which British professional golfer has a passion for fast cars and gambling?

What nationality is US PGA Tour player Angel Cabrera?

Can you identify the Australian professional who plays on the US PGA Tour and has a surname that starts with C? Answers at the bottom of the page

Josh Lancaster with Mats Marklund from E-Z-Go

A free golf cart...that’s ACE! In the recent Long Island GC Pro-Am, young Josh Lancaster from Lakes Entrance Golf Club had a hole-in-one on the 173m par-3 third hole, netting him brand-new E-Z-GO RXV golf cart as supplied by Augusta Golf Cars. The amateur partners in Josh’s group had all hit great shots on the green, but Josh was determined to hit the boll closer than his partners... and he successfully

did just that! Long Island is a loyal E-Z-GO client, and had only days prior to the Pro-Am taken delivery of a new fleet of E-Z-GO RXV electric cars. SEN radio was on site with live broadcasting and a live interview was held after the round. Augusta Golf Cars is a proud supporter of PGA not just with local Pro-Am’s but also the National Seniors Tour.

ANSWERS: (1). John Daly; (2). 48; (3). Your name must be Bobby Jones; (4). Tom Watson; (5). Alistair Presnell or Matt Jones; (6). The way the grass lies on the green; (7). Laura Davies; (8). Argentinean; (9). Greg Chalmers.

January 2011

62 golfdirectory............................................................................................................................................................................................. www.insidegolf.com.au

Benalla Golf Club

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Hotel Neath

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Warragul Country Club

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except Christmas day and has many events lined up for the remaining year. Hope to see you soon in the beautiful Blue Mountains

golfdirectory 63

Club House: 4787 8406 • Pro Shop: 4787 5643 • Email info@blackheathgolf.com.au • Visit: www.blackheathgolf.com.au

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January 2011

64 demodates. ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... www.insidegolf.com.au TITLEIST

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Location

Day

Date

New South Wales Hudson Park Golf Course Monday January 10 Narrabeen Golf Driving Range Thursday January 13 Queensland Mr Tee’s Driving Range Thursday January 06 Lee & Pete’s Golf Friday January 07 Victoria Park Golf Club Tuesday January 18 Brisbane Golf Club Wednesday January 19 Oxley Golf Driving Range Wednesday January 19 Gold Coast Country Club Thursday January 20 The Glades Golf & Spa Friday January 21 Logan River Golf Range Thursday January 27 Palm Meadows Golf Range Friday January 28 Victoria Yering Meadows Golf Club* Wednesday January 12 Woodlands Golf Club* Saturday January 15 Latrobe Driving Range* Wednesday January 19 Sorrento Golf Club* Saturday January 22 Ballarat Golf Club* Friday January 28

Time 4 - 7pm 4 - 7pm 4 - 7pm 3 - 6pm 5.30 - 7.30pm 10am - 2pm 5 - 7pm 5 - 7pm 2 - 5pm 4 - 7pm 2 - 5pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 4 - 8pm 10am - 2pm 9am - 5pm

Ping Ph: (02) 9524 8233 or visit www.ping.com Location

Day

Date

Time

New South Wales Hudson Park Driving Range Port Kembla Golf Club Bonnie Doon Golf Club Bayview Golf Club Narrabeen Driving Range Gosford Driving Range Castle Hill Country Club Federal Golf Club Canberra Int Driving Range Royal Canberra Golf Club Griffith Golf Club Wagga Wagga Country Club The Lakes Golf Club Georges River Golf Club

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Friday Saturday Tuesday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Monday

January 10 January 11 January 12 January 13 January 13 January 14 January 15 January 18 January 18 January 19 January 20 January 21 January 22 January 24

5 - 8pm 9am - 2pm 9am - 3pm 10am - 2pm 4 - 7pm 11am - 4pm 9am - 1pm 9am - 2pm 4 - 7pm 9am - 1pm 11am - 6pm 11am - 3pm 9am - 3pm 3 - 6pm

Carries golfers, bags

Location

Day

Date

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Camden Lakeside Golf Club Olympic Park Driving Range Elanora Country Club Terrey Hills Country Club Queensland Victoria Park Golf Complex Lakelands Gold Coast Country Club The Glades Palm Meadows Driving Range Victoria National Golf Club* The Sands Torquay* Barwon Heads Golf Club* National Golf Club* Medway Golf Club* Sandringham Golf Range Yarra Bend Driving Range Western Australia Burswood Golf Course Kalgoorlie Golf Course Kalgoorlie Golf Course Collier Park Melville Glades

Tuesday Tuesday Thursday Friday

January 25 January 25 January 27 January 28

9am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 11am - 3pm 1 - 5pm

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Friday

January 04 January 19 January 20 January 21 January 28

5 - 7.30pm 9am - 1pm 5 - 7.30pm 2 - 5pm 1 - 5pm

Friday Tuesday Wednesday Saturday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday

January 08 January 11 January 12 January 15 January 19 January 19 January 27

10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 5 - 7:30pm 4 - 7pm

Saturday Saturday Sunday Friday Saturday

January 08 January 15 January 15 January 28 January 29

10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 9am - 12pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 1pm

Callaway RAZr power hours Location New South Wales Narrabeen Driving Range Queensland Oxley Driving Range Victoria Barwon Heads Golf Club Barwon Heads Golf Club Albert Park Driving Range Yarra Bend Driving Range MGA Sandringham Driving Range

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Day

Date

Time

Thursday

January 13

4 - 7pm

Wednesday

January 19

4 – 6.30pm

Monday Saturday Thursday Thursday Wednesday Wednesday

January 03 January 08 January 13 January 27 January 05 January 19

10am - 2pm 9am - 1pm 2 - 7pm 4 - 7pm 4 - 7pm 5 - 7.30pm

and your operation to a new level.

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Increase revenues, reduce expenses, manage your key assets and deliver a superior customer experience. Only a Club Car fleet can deliver all of these. Contact your Club Car representative today.

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September 2010

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Play these wonderful courses in the Southern Highlands. Just a one hour drive from Sydney.

Southern Highlands Golf Great Stay & Play packages available all year round! Moss Vale Golf Club

Bowral Golf Club

Mount Broughton Golf & Country Club

Arthur Street, Moss Vale PGA Club Professional: Robert Marsh Pro Shop: (02) 4868 1503. Club: (02) 4868 1811 Email: info@mossvalegolfclub.com.au www.mossvalegolfclub.com.au

Cnr David St & Kangaloon Rd, Bowral Club: (02) 4861 1042 Pro Shop: (02) 4861 3218 Email: enquires@bowralgolfclub.com.au www.bowralgolfclub.com.au

Kater Road, Sutton Forest PGA Club Professional: Rob Kennedy Pro Shop: (02) 4868 3700 Email: manager@mtbroughton.com.au www.mtbroughton.com.au

Highlands Golf Club

Hume Highway, Mittagong PGA Club Professional: Lee Hunt Pro Shop: (02) 4871 3274. Club: (02) 4871 1995 Email: enquiries@highlandsgolf.com.au www.highlandsgolf.com.au

Southern Highlands Golf Tours For enquiries or to play all of these top courses phone (02) 4884 4306

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL MIZUNO CORPORATION AUSTRALIA ON 1300 796 457 OR VISIT YOUR LOCAL MIZUNO AUTHORISED STOCKIST

FOR A FREE TRIAL VISIT OUR WEBSITE • TO VIEW A DEMO DAY CLOSE TO YOU VIEW AT WWW.MIZUNO.COM.AU