Issue 80 Inside Golf - March 2012

InsideGolf www.insidegolf.com.au // Issue 80 March 2012

Shark Attacks

Greg Norman returns!

In the

Nick of time Nick O’Hern on Putting, Pressure and Perseverance

Golf 2.0

Our full report from The PGA Show in Orlando

Business Links

Your complete guide to Corporate Golf in Victoria

Sand Saves Get a handle on your Bunker Shots

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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au.....................................................................................................................................................................

Meet the

Team

“Australia’s Most Read Golf Magazine”* continues to grow. This month’s issue has more contributors, sales staff and support staff than ever before. Here are some of the people who help bring your favourite golf magazine to you each and every month.

(* Source: Sports Marketing Surveys 2011 independent survey of Australian golfers)

Richard Fellner, Group Editor richard@insidegolf.com.au

With over 35 years’ experience on and around golf courses (yet never seeming to get any better at the game) Richard is a self-confessed golf nut. Originally from the US (but now a happy Melburnian), Richard played competitive golf at the University of California, has worked at dozens of golf courses in nearly every operational aspect, and has walked the fairways of some of the most beautiful and challenging courses in the world. Winner of the 2007 Australian Golf Media Award for photojournalism, Richard has written, edited and published a variety of magazines and websites across the globe, and is also considered an expert in Online/Digital content and Social Media. He is also a regular guest on ABC News Radio, Melbourne Talk Radio 1377 and 2GB.

insideourmagazine

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EDITORIAL David Newbery, Senior Writer

SALES David Ross, QLD Sales

Senior journalist/editor David Newbery has been living, breathing, writing and editing golf for 28 years. His extensive knowledge of the game comes from covering golf around the world. Hired by Inside Golf in 2009, David is well-regarded and highly respected in the golf industry. Prior to Inside Golf, David worked as the editor of The Golfer for 25 years and before that worked for numerous daily newspapers in Australia and overseas. The Brisbane-based writer is a distressed golfer, but has played golf with some of the game’s best players including nine-time major winner Gary Player.

David has been in the golf industry since 1980.

Previously with Club Car, Dunlop Slazenger, Australian Golf Digest and Links Hope Island Golf Club, David joined the Inside Golf team in 2010 as the QLD representative, securing QLD business for our everexpanding product portfolio including Inside Golf, PGA Magazine and iseekgolf.com. David also represents industry brands In2it Sports and Parreset. In addition to golf, David enjoys travelling, swimming, fitness and fine wine.

david@insidegolf.com.au

Rob Willis

ed@insidegolf.com.au

Since taking up the game as a 12-year-old, golf has played a huge part in Rob’s life. A player of some ability, Rob won the NSW Amateur title, the Australian medal and represented the University of Nevada Reno in the American intercollegiate system, before putting the clubs to one side to concentrate on a career in golfing journalism, working his way up to become the Editor of Golf Australia Magazine. He entered the professional ranks in 1992, winning titles such as the Dubai Creek Open on the Asian Tour and the Fiji Open in the South Pacific. Rob is also the editor for PGA Magazine, the members’ journal of PGA Australia.

Larry Canning

ed@insidegolf.com.au

A professional golfer since 1978, Larry played the Australasian, South Pacific and Asian tours throughout the 1980s (which means — according to Larry — that he “did it with a bad haircut”).

Winner of the 1986 NSW Order of Merit, Larry also led the South Australian Open, New Zealand Open, Ricky May Classic and South Pacific Open before – again, in his words — “sh**ting myself during the last rounds”. He freely (some say foolishly) admits that he’s done a TV pilot (podcast) for the same station with Luke Bona (Luke and Larry’s Golfing Adventures). Larry has a weekly golf show on 2GB (Back Nine Golf Show) and he also writes a weekly column in the Southern Highlands News.

Michael Green

aussiegolfer@gmx.com

Michael Green is an avid golf fanatic, and the author/ blogger of the Aussie Golfer blog (www.aussiegolfer.net) one of Australia’s most popular blogging sites. Michael’s niche is to discuss the everyday concerns of the regular “have a drink after a round” golfer. Obsessed with golf at a very early age, Michael has immersed himself in the game, studying its nuances, news and issues whenever he can. Follow him on Twitter (twitter.com/AussieGolfer) or on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AussieGolfer

dg.ross@live.com.au

Jon Perrett, Vic/Tas/SA Sales

jon.perrett@bestingolfgroup.com

Jon was born and bred in to the golf industry, watching over his father – Ross Perrett -- designing golf courses around the world with Thomson Perrett. Jon currently manages Best In Golf Group, which lead the National sales and marketing for clothing company Ready2 Golf, Grip Master grips and a range of other golf products. He also assists Thomson Perrett with their marketing, and he played a significant role in preparing the submission for the design of the 2016 Rio Olympics Golf Course, of which Thomson Perrett made the Final-8 shortlist.

Lisa Coleman, National Sales lisa@insidegolf.com.au

Having been in the Sales and Marketing industry for the past 18 years, including 3 1/2 years at Golfer Pacific, Lisa has come to believe that golf is her Niche. The newest member of the Inside Golf team, Lisa is thrilled to be able to provide knowledgeable and instructive information about the offerings available at Inside Golf Magazine (as well as our web and digital offerings), and this gives her great satisfaction to pass on to potential advertisers along with exceptional client service.

Scott Barsby, NSW/ACT Sales scott@insidegolf.com.au

At 23 years old, Scott brings a combination of youth, energy and buzz to the Inside Golf team. Playing off a very respectable 1 handicap at Muirfield and Lynwood Golf Clubs, Scott has been with Inside Golf since 2010, and has been aptly servicing the NSW South Wales and ACT markets in that time. He holds a Bachelor of Business at UTS (2009) and he also enjoys Cricket, NRL (Bulldogs) and AFL (Swans).

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Golf 2.0: Bigger cups, smaller courses, shorter holes

Our report from the PGA Merchandise Show As the ONLY Australian golf publication in attendance at this year’s PGA Merchandise Show, Inside Golf delved deep to bring you the latest and greatest gear, as well as an in-depth exploration of the future of golf itself.

The annual PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Florida, is generally known as the launching pad for the latest and greatest golf gear and gadgets, as well as top-level discussions about the golf industry in general. This year’s event lived up to all expectations.

Featuring nearly 10 miles of show aisles, 1 million square feet of interactive exhibit, product demonstration and industry presentation space, and more than 40,000 influential PGA Professionals, manufacturing executives, VIP retailers, industry leaders & top decision-makers, it is an event that is not to be missed. Not to be forgotten is the massive Outdoor Demo Day, which features nearly 100 top golf companies within 200+ hitting bays, practice greens and the vendor village of the 42-acre Orange County National Golf Centre.

This year saw the launch of groundbreaking products from all the major manufacturers, Titleist, Callaway, TaylorMade, Nike...the list goes on.

New balls, drivers, irons, shoes and apparel were the order of the day, though a couple of the more exciting products included a Talking GPS system from GolfBuddy (see Gear section) and a new app for smartphones called SmartCart, which lets golfers order food and drinks from the course (see News section).

But this year’s event may be remembered more for what was said during one of the week’s roundtable discussions.

In the “Golf 2.0 Roundtable”, legendary golfer/ designer/businessman/philanthropist/hero Jack Nicklaus joined golf industry executives and partners in a media roundtable discussion about growing golf by retaining present players, reclaiming former golfers, and attracting new ones.

Part of the Golf 2.0 plan includes “outside the box” initiatives to spark interest in the game, like building small golf courses with synthetic greens in city parks and recreation areas, engaging PGA professionals to teach golf in the Boys & Girls Clubs of America,

“I’ve realised that in order to save the game, we need to think outside the box.”

— Jack Nicklaus

this year. It’s a good sign for the golf industry.”

Those sentiments were echoed by Todd Trifaux, vice president of Sundog Eyewear.

“This is the best traffic we have experienced in four years. We’re seeing a lot more buyers and genuine customers, which is a very positive sign.”

A number of high-profile professional players, teachers and celebrities made special appearances at the PGA Merchandise Show including 2012 U.S. Ryder Cup Captain Davis Love III, Tom Kite, Greg Norman, Lee Trevino, Billy Casper, Ian Poulter, Paula Creamer, Hank Haney, David Leadbetter, Butch Harmon, Natalie Gulbis, Lexi Thompson and Anna Nordqvist.

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making golf holes (and even entire courses) shorter, introducing more six- and 12-hole golf courses, and even increasing the size of the cup to 8 inches to speed up play.

“I care about this game; it’s given me so many great things for me and my family through the years,” said Nicklaus. “I’ve always been a traditionalist, but I’ve realized that in order to save the game, we need to think outside the box. This initiative is not a PGA of America initiative; it’s not a Jack Nicklaus initiative.

This is a golf industry initiative, because it is a golf industry issue. We all have a stake in this. Whatever happens is because of all of us. It’s our future.”

In addition, Nicklaus offered a very telling sign that golf is indeed facing trouble.

“I’ve got 22 grandkids,” Nicklaus said. “They play less than I do, and that’s not very much. Other sports are grabbing their attention.”

Think about that statement for a moment. If Jack Nicklaus — arguably the greatest golfer in history – can’t even inspire HIS grandkids to take up golf, then what chance do the rest of us mere mortals have?

“They are playing soccer, lacrosse, football, baseball, basketball, you name it,” said Nicklaus.

“They don’t have the time to play golf, and the kids are not being introduced to it…We need to introduce our kids to the game of golf.”

“I’ve seen what’s happened over the last few years,” Nicklaus said. “We’ve lost 23 percent of the women in

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the game since 2006, and we’ve lost 36 percent of the kids in the game since 2006. That’s not a good stat.”

Among the multi-pronged plan to engage new players is a partnership with Boys & Girls Club of America, a five-year mission that will introduce youth to the game of golf. Beginning in 46 selected US cities, golf training equipment and instructional support from PGA Professionals will be provided through this partnership to help youth build character, develop healthy lifestyles, and learn the game of golf.

Nicklaus also indicated that golf ’s entry into the 2016 Olympic Games would be a pivotal moment for the game.

“It’s a pretty big deal in 2016 to be right,” said Nicklaus. “There will be a decision in 2017 on whether to continue with golf in the 2020 Olympics.

And if 2016 ends right and it is voted back in, think of the effect that’s going to have. Take Brazil that doesn’t even have a public golf facility; take China ...India...Russia, which [are] barely starting into the game. All of these places that have really supported Olympic sports.”

Despite the sobering statistics about declining numbers in golf, the PGA Show’s overall vibe was upbeat and positive, with huge numbers of attendees.

“There is definitely a bigger buzz at the Show this year,” said Mike Attara, PGA Professional and president of Spirit Golf Management. “Virtually every major company is here with new products

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, Peter Croker, Lee Harrington, Stephen Pitt, Brian Thorburn, Anne Rollo, Brent German, Glen Whittle, Steve Bann, Peter McConnell, Jamie Glazier, Tony Wells, Michael Green, Mark Victorsen, Darren Chapman, Richard Nizielski, Matthew Pitt, Garrett Johnston Design & Layout: Nick Thorn National Sales & Marketing Director: Sam Arthur P: 1300 4653 00 | F: (07) 5535 4922 M: 0410 575 303 | E: sam@insidegolf.com.au QLD Sales: David Ross M: 0439 612 458 | E: dg.ross@live.com.au NSW/ACT Sales: Scott Barsby M: 0424 779 199 | E: scott@insidegolf.com.au VIC/TAS/SA Sales: Jon Perrett M:0402 852 637 E: jon.perrett@bestingolfgroup.com Advertising Sales: Lisa Coleman E: lisa@insidegolf.com.au M:0406 031 344 Accounts: Sheridan Murphy M: 0404 075 823 | accounts@insidegolf.com.au Publisher: Outdoor Sports Publishing Pty Ltd ACN 113 836 301 ABN 30 043 104 919 PO BOX 437, Miami, QLD 4220 Cover Photo © Sam Greenwood (Getty Images)

It’s official: 41,630 Inside Golf Magazines distributed each month for the period: April 11–September 11

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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

news

Junior golf thriving in the Top End

Peter Senior with Karen Lawrie – Royal Children’s Hospital, and Mark Holland – Links Hope Island General Manager

Peter Senior Charity Pro-Am continues to make a difference

The 17th Annual Peter Senior Charity ProAm 2011 was held in December with a full field of PGA professionals and sponsors. The event continues to make a difference in the lives of children battling cancer. All funds raised on the day went towards Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation’s Oncology Research, to help develop improved and less invasive treatments for children with cancer.

Host Peter Senior said “The day was a huge success and raised in excess of $11,000. These funds enabled the Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation to continue their vital research into childhood cancer.”

The event was won by Aaron Pike with a 68, closely followed by Adam Le Vesconte.

Some of the juniors at a recent clinic in Alice Springs, with professionals Tony Albon (back row left) and Stephen Tieck (back row right) For junior golfers in the Northern Territory, the future is looking bright.

In Mid January, The Alice Springs Golf Club was host to a week-long Junior Clinic held by professional Stephen Tieck. Of the 40 golfers who attended, 11 were girls, which represents a great future for women’s golf in the NT and Australia.

In the “Paul Pearson Cup” competition for juniors, Andrew Wilson (Darwin Golf Club) took out the boys 36-hole Junior Championship, while Asha Hargraves (Darwin Golf Club) took out the girls 36-hole Junior Championship.

The Mid Year Junior Clinic will be held from

Monday the 25th June to Friday the 30th June at the Palmerston Golf Club, Northern Territory.

Last year the clinic had over 100 children attend.

The clinic will include three days of coaching from the pros, followed by a 36-hole Junior Classic. Pro Tony Albon has been holding this clinic for over 12 years during the Northern Territory’s dry season, with the weather being exceptional. This year, Tony has been able to call upon the wonderful help of Charlie Earp, Paul King, John Davis, Sean Dwyer, James Pratt, Torie Pratt, Corinne Dibnah and Kurt Watts for the week-long clinic.

SA name sides for Interstate Series South Australia will field their most experienced junior state sides in recent years, with only two players due to make their representative debuts at April’s national Junior Interstate series in Queensland.

In the state Boy’s side, debutants Jordan Bishop (Kooyonga) and Lachlan Booth (Glenelg) will join the experienced lineup of Grange Golf Club trio Matthew Lisk, Anthony Murdaca and Jack Williams, as well as Thaxted Park’s Kieren Barratt.

The SA Girls side remains unchanged from the team that competed in last year’s Interstate series in New South Wales, with the Glenelg pairing of Christine Beasley and Elysia Yap teaming up with Kristalle Blum (Grange), Acacia Curtis (Wirrabara), Rachel Taylor (Mt Osmond) and Amy Zhou (Kooyonga).

Both sides have shown some solid recent form, and will be looking to improve on last year’s results which saw the Boys and Girls teams finishing third and fifth respectively.

For the Boys, Anthony Murdaca was victorious at this year’s Greg Norman Junior Masters on the Gold Coast and the SA Junior Masters at Royal Adelaide, while Matthew Lisk finished the summer junior series strongly with a runaway Junior Open victory at Kooyonga and Grange.

Kristalle Blum has been the standout junior female player of the summer, winning three Junior Open titles, while Elysia Yap continues to show promise with second placings at the SA Junior Amateur and SA Junior Masters.

The Boys Interstate Teams Matches are played from 16 to 19 April at the challenging Pacific Harbour Golf Course on Bribie Island. The Girls Interstate Teams Matches take place at Carbrook Golf Club south of Brisbane from 15 to 17 April.

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SmartCart set to revolutionise the Beverage Cart model “Where is that beverage cart? I’m thirsty!”

It’s a common grumble on courses across the world. The uncertainty of where, when or even IF the beverage cart will arrive at your group can make a round of golf uncomfortable at times.

But what if you could pull out your smartphone, tap a few options, and instantly order a beverage of choice, a bit of food, and even a dozen golf balls to be delivered directly to you?

Now, there’s an App for that!

SmartCart is a free GPS-assisted smart phone app, recently launched in iTunes.

This app allows the golfer to order not only order drinks and food from the Clubhouse/ Restaurant but also anything else the course or ProShop wants to sell. Best of all, however, is that the order can either be delivered directly to the golfer on the course, held at the turn, or sitting ready at the ‘19th hole’.

It seems the old, inefficient “beverage cart randomly looping around a course” model is now a thing of the past. Gone too are the long waits on the 10th hole as the group ahead of you scrambles to order their food and beverages from the Clubhouse.

When a golfer launches the app, it will automatically find any course within a 25km radius that uses SmartCart, then display a course menu and pro-shop items, along with price and availability. They can place an order with touch of a button, pay for the items wirelessly, and receive the order either via a on-course cart delivery, or have it waiting at the turn.

For the course, this represents efficient management and prompt delivery of orders, which speeds up pace of play dramatically. Courses can maximize profits by offering golfers more opportunity to spend, communicate directly to golfers via “push notifications”, and accept payment processing directly from phone. Best of all, it is Risk free—the web-based system means that no new equipment is needed by the club.

Victorians grab Blind Golf Interstate Challenge

Blind golfers Sean Witting, Rick Krolik, David Blyth, Robert Curtin, Doug Sloan and Brian Gear proudly hold the Don Hogg Memorial Shield On 5 February, the Yass Golf Club hosted the 18th running of the Interstate Challenge between blind golfers from New South Wales and Victoria.

Much to the delight of the VICs, they won the Stableford team event securing the Don Hogg Memorial Shield.

Rod Mills, President - Blind Golf New South

Wales, presented the shield to Doug Sloan, President - Blind Golf Victoria, and both gentlemen thanked Yass Golf Club President, Mr Peter Doyle, for the club hosting the event.

To learn more about blind golf, go to the Blind Golf Australia website www.blindgolf.com.au or see www.internationalblindgolf.com

GolfNutters enjoy a day on the Heath

Australian SmartCart Pilot Program Inside Golf is partnering with Smart Cart to bring it Down Under, and we are looking for a few courses in Australia to pioneer the technology for free.

If your course is interested in taking part in the Pilot Program of SmartCart (absolutely free), contact Sam Arthur: sam@outdoorsportspublishing.com.au

Kingston Heath, one of Australia’s finest courses, played host to nearly 70 GolfNut subscribers in the first GolfNut Golf Day in January.

GolfNut (www.golfnut.com.au), a golf deals website which mixes up access deals to top private clubs as well as value-based offers to public and hybrid golf courses, set up the Kingston Heath day as its inaugural offer back in late 2011.

“Kingston Heath has a deserved reputation for being the best course in the country,” explains CEO Andrew Davies. “We wanted to kick off our business with something really special for GolfNutters – providing the chance to play a course they would not normally have access to was ideal, and Kingston Heath was the perfect host.”

Winners of the day were ‘Bill’ (names have been shortened to protect the innocent takers of

sick days) in the Stableford competition with 41 points, and Graeme in the Callaway competition with a net 72.

One of the participants on the day (let’s call him ‘Gary’) was enthusiastic about the chance to play Kingston Heath. “The day was extremely well run, and the friendly relaxed atmosphere created by both the staff at Kingston Heath, and the organisers from Golfnut, left a lasting impression.”

GolfNut remain committed to smart deals for golf clubs and have developed a suite of products to give clubs some options in how they structure their offers on the GolfNut platform. The Kingston Heath Day was just the first step and Davies hopes the industry gets behind them as they widen their offering to golfers in coming months after the peak summer season.

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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

news

New website for golf apparel A new kid on the block has arrived in the Australian golf apparel industry.

Jones & Berkley is an online store importing and stocking quality golf fashion and accessories. Owned by the mother/daughter team of Jane and Phoebe Jones, Jones & Berkley stocks renowned, high-quality established brands from overseas.

The idea of Jones & Berkley began after Jane and Phoebe struggled to find fashion-forward equestrian and golf clothing in Australia. Phoebe, who is an accomplished equestrienne, and Jane Jones an avid golfer/equestrienne have teamed up to bring fabulous quality clothing for both golfers and equestrians.

Big names include current Australian Masters Champion and undisputable most fashionable golfer Ian Poulter’s range of IJP Design, long established brand Glenmuir from Scotland, Sunderland, Biotex and the fabulous Druh Belts and Buckles from the USA. Druh Belts are seen on many Tour Professionals all over the world such as Lee Westwood, Thomas Bjorn, Jean Chua, Paul McGinley and many more.

Jones & Berkley supply golf wear for both men and women and will endeavour to constantly add to the range of brands and sourcing what’s new and fashion forward on the golf fairways and bringing it directly to Australia.

Jones & Berkley offer gift wrapping for that special gift, gift vouchers and also offer that extra special personal service lacking in most online stores.

It’s all about confidence and with Jones & Berkley you will definitely have one up on your opponent.

You c an v is it t he i r on l i ne store at www.jonesandberkley.com or contact directly Toll Free 1300 663 531.

USGA takes a “fresh look” at long putters A lot has been said about belly & long putters in the last few issues of Inside Golf. Whether you like them or not – or accept them as legal or not — the overall conclusion has been “They’ve been accepted for over 20 years, so it’s probably too late to change the rule.”

That point, however, may no longer be true.

A new “ban-the-belly” movement has gained a bit of steam overseas, with the R&A successfully persuading the USGA to take a “fresh look” at the belly putter – specifically around “Anchoring”.

If you’re not familiar with the term, “Anchoring” refers to any putting method in which the putter is secured against the body in a manner considered to be outside the definition of a natural or traditional stroke (in this case, against the belly or chest.)

Players like Tiger Woods, Ernie Els and others have been outspoken opponents of the belly putter (even though Els soon switched over to the Belly putter himself.)

Changing the rule would be difficult, but not impossible. It’s not necessary to rule the equipment non-conforming, but rather the method used in the stroke (just like the banning of the croquet-style, between-the-legs method a few decades ago.)

At the USGA annual meeting last month, it was clear that the putters are in the spotlight.

“All of a sudden ... this has become a much bigger topic,” said Mike Davis, Executive Director of the USGA, speaking to GolfWeek.

“The USGA and R&A have been talking about this at length. We are looking at it from a perspective that: What is good for the game, for all golfers, long term? It is something we have taken a fresh look at. More players are using

Dirty Harry launches golf network

it, both on the elite level and the recreational level. We want to be sure that we are looking at all the angles and thinking about what is in the best interests both of the traditions of the game, the history of the game, and what we think would be good for the game.”

Davis’ sentiments were supported by new USGA president Glen Nager, who delivered a speech against bifurcation of equipment rules (creating one set of rules for professionals and another set of rules for amateurs – as proposed

by PING’s John Solheim and others), and he expressed the same support for a renewed look at anchoring.

The USGA is expected to address the subject publicly during the 2012 U.S. Open.

Mention the name Clint Eastwood, and you may conjure memories of old westerns, Dirty Harry, a string of blockbuster films, Academy Awards and, of course, Pebble Beach and Carmel, California.

But soon, you can add Golf Network Producer to his CV. According to the Hollywood Reporter, Eastwood has been named creative board chairman and founding shareholder of the Back9 Network, a TV network devoted to golf and fairway culture.

Eastwood, who is an investor in Pebble Beach and also owns a golf club in Carmel, is reported to serve as a consultant on programming and casting decisions for the Network, which is said to focus on golf “lifestyle” programming. One of the pilot shows, “Extreme Golf,” is said to feature athletes and celebrities golfing on outlandish courses, while another show, “Hole Lotta Love”, may take the form of “a ‘Bachelor’-style dating series in which pairs play with three dates and eliminate one at each hole.”

Three words to the Australian TV Networks: Bring. It. Here.

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March 2012

10 Queenslandnews................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Queensland Golf Forum “Know your business” Former touring professional and junior golf advocate Jack Newton will headline the Queensland Golf Forum to be held on March 13 at the Victoria Park Golf Complex.

Golf Queensland Chief Executive Officer Lindsay Ellis said it was a bonus to include Newton in the Forum.

“Jack is passionate about the development of the game and has played a prominent role in promoting junior golf through the Jack Newton Junior Golf Foundation,” Mr Ellis said.

The Forum is expected to attract a variety of participants from golf club executives, captains and PGA professionals as well as upand-coming industry professionals from the PGA International Golf Institute.

Me d i a c o m m e n t a t o r a n d g o l f i n g enthusiast Bruce Young will be Master of Ceremonies ensuring each participant gets the most out of the day from the presenters line up.

“The forum agenda will cover several topical items with each speaker providing some relevant “ideas” to take back to their operation,” Mr Ellis said.

“We have secured organisations including Clubs Queensland, Club Insurance Queensland, Volunteering Queensland and Golf Industry Central to present at the Forum.

“Many of the agenda items are key to an organisation’s operations and I would encourage golf club executives and industry representatives to attend.”

Jack Newton will headline the Queensland Golf Forum this month Attendees are also invited to network with peers and presenters at the Early Bird function from 7.30am.

The agenda will include Industrial Relations (Current issues in the club industry and how a club can get assistance — Presented by Eric Porter from Clubs Queensland); Volunteer Management (recruitment, retention plus partnering with schools, councils and local businesses — presented by Volunteering Qld); Risk Management (examples of risks and mitigations presented by Brian Kunde from Club Insurance Queensland); Club Scorecard (Monitoring your golf club’s progress annually); Marketing Member Loyalty (Connecting with your members so they stay longer. Presented by golf operations and marketing specialist Mike Orloff, Golf Industry Central) and Growing the Game (gaining relevance in a modern world— presented by PGA of America member and growing the game specialist Grant Garrison.)

The cost is $69 per person or two for $99 (one payment, same organisation).

For more info www.golfqueensland.org.au or phone (07) 3252 8155.

Queensland Interstate teams selected Golf Queensland has named its representative teams to compete in the Australian Boys’ and Girls’ Interstate Teams Matches in April and the Australian Men’s and Women’s Interstate Teams Matches in May. Queensland has the home-side advantage with the Girls’ event being played at the Carbrook Golf Club from 15 – 17 April and the Boys’ event being played at Pacific Harbour Golf and Country Club from 16 – 19 April.

The Queensland Girls’ Team won the Series last year and will be looking at repeating their good form in April. During the past four years, the Girls’ Team has won the event three times (2008, 2009 and 2011). The Queensland Boys’ Team will also be hoping for a home ground advantage after finishing runner-up to New South Wales in 2010 and 2011.

South Australia will host the Australian Men’s and Women’s Interstate Teams Matches from 1 – 4 May, with the Men’s event being played at the Royal Adelaide Golf Club and the Women’s event being played at the West Lakes Golf Club.

TH EAR Y

16

Queensland has won the Men’s title six times and in 2011 it was the first time they had won consecutive titles in the Series’ 107-year history.

The Australian Women’s Interstate Teams Matches for the Gladys Hay Memorial Cup is Australia’s most prestigious Women’s Amateur Team Golf Championship.

The Queensland women will be looking to improve last year’s result which saw them finish fourth.

Queensland Interstate Teams Queensland Boys’ Team Viraat Badhwar (Indooroopilly) Jackson Dick (Burleigh) Jack Hulyer (Coolangatta Tweed) Jordan McCarthy (Pacific) Jake McLeod (Hills) Blake Proverbs (Pacific)

Viraat Badhwar

Queensland Girls’ Team

Daniel McGraw (Gailes) Daniel Nisbet (Caboolture) Cameron Smith (Royal Queensland) Aaron Wilkin (Wynnum)

Victoria Fricot (Peregian Springs) Gennai Goodwin (Mossman) Lauren Mason (Horton Park) Tiffany-Claire Lewis (Pelican Waters) Dee Dee Russell (Coolangatta Tweed) Nadine White (Pacific)

Queensland Men’s Team

Queensland Women’s Team

James Gibellini (Emerald Lakes) Christopher Harrop (Royal Queensland) Kevin Marques (Indooroopilly) Taylor MacDonald (Redcliffe)

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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

news 11

Qld pros honoured DavidNewbery IN my career as a golf writer, I have crossed paths with some of the game’s finest players and administrators.

Unfortunately, I don’t have the space to mention them all, but some of those include Norman, Player, von Nida, Nicklaus, BakerFinch, Grady, Marsh, Senior, Allenby, Appleby and Scott.

All have impressive records in the game and all have at one time or another received accolades normally reserved for royalty.

Quite right too as they have given plenty of joy to hordes of golf fans the world over.

But last month I was particularly delighted to see 29 mostly unheralded Queensland PGA professionals, most of whom I know, receive achievement awards for services to golf.

As part of the PGA of Australia’s centenary celebrations, more than 100 Queensland pros gathered at Royal Queensland Golf Club for a game of golf and presentation dinner.

Many players got into the spirit of the occasion and dressed in plus-fours and used hickory shaft clubs.

It was an opportunity to honour some of Queensland’s finest club, teaching and playing professionals.

Those who received achievements awards were: Ian Baker-Finch, Peter Barry, Len Beck, Garry Calder, John Downs, Charlie Earp, Gary Edwin, Mike Ferguson, Danny Freyling, Mark Gibson, Peter Heiniger, Brian Jones, Paul King,

John Klatt, Rodger Davis, Wayne Grady, Erroll Hartvigsen, Graham Marsh, Peter McWhinney, Alan Murray, Greg Norman, Rod Pampling, Adam Scott, John Senden, Peter Senior, Bryan Smith, Ian Triggs, John Victorsen Snr and Randall Vines.

During the evening, stalwarts like Charlie Earp and Paul King reminisced about the good, and not so good, old days.

The guests heard how the PGA had grown into a major force after such an inauspicious start to life.

They marvelled at how a group of 15 disgruntled professionals banded together in 1911 to form the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA).

Angered by their poor treatment during the Australian Open at Royal Sydney Golf Club, the founding fathers gathered in Carnegie Clark’s workshop and threatened to withdraw from the tournament.

They didn’t carry out their threat but they did complain to the Daily Telegraph newspaper.

In those days, professional golfers were not permitted to enter the clubhouse. Instead, they had a tiny room, a bedroom usually occupied by one person, as a dressing room.

“No bath is provided for us and the washing arrangements for 15 men are made up of one small jug of water and an equally small basin,” they told the newspaper.

“We are asked to eat in a tent, which in the tempestuous weather prevailing on Saturday was ridiculously inadequate for the work it was designed to do.

Charie Earp, Len Beck, Paul King, Errol Hartvigsen and Peter McWhinney help Qld celebrate the PGA Centenary

“It did not keep the wind out at all, being open at each of the four corners, and edibles were blown off the table.

“No proper sanitary provision is made for us.”

They were tough times, indeed.

In fact, the pros had to wait another 40-odd years before being allowed into clubhouses.

Today, PGA of Australia’s 2500-plus members are highly regarded and are arguably the best trained in the world.

PGA of Australia chairman Mark Gibson said the association had come a long way.

“Upon walking into a clubhouse you can feel the traditions run deep, that this century old game has weathered storms no other has dared endure, with two world wars, controversies and the need to adapt to a changing society it is the traditions we identify with golf that holds steadfast,” he said.

PGA of Australia CEO Brian Thorburn said PGA members Australia-wide had been the cornerstone of the Australian golf industry for the past 100 years.

“I congratulate all tonight’s award winners on their part in this illustrious history,” he told the assembled pros and guests.

“You are all among some of the greatest PGA members who have lived and contributed to Australian golf, and for that you, your family and your club should be justifiably proud.”

PGA centenary patron and award recipient Greg Norman was unable to attend the function, but he did acknowledge the award recipients place in Australian golf history via video link.

“You are all among some of the most highly skilled PGA members the world over and I hope will take great pride in being part of such an historic occasion,” Norman said.

March 2012

12 industrynews................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au Wayne Grady to New direction for Gainsborough Greens prepare Masterplan for Virginia Golf Club Virginia Golf Club in Queensland announced that they have appointed Wayne Grady Golf Design to commence a 27-hole Masterplan Design.

Virginia Golf Club’s Secretary Manager, David Bell said “Work has started on the Concept Design and the final Masterplan will be completed early this year at which time the Club’s members will have the opportunity to give their feedback on the Plan prior to giving formal approval.”

1990 USA PGA Winner Wayne Grady has had a long association with the club and is delighted to be involved in this project.

“Although starting my career at the Redcliffe Golf Club, I joined Virginia when we moved closer to Brisbane. Back then the club had a rich history of well-known golfers like Sommie Mackay and Australian Amateur Champion Jack Rayner, as well as a new member who would go on to be the No. 1 player in the world, Greg Norman.” Wayne said.

“I still have a strong tie to the club so it is with great pleasure and excitement that I look forward to working on the Masterplan for the refurbishment and upgrading of a Club that has played such a big part in my life.”

Virginia Golf Club believes it is the only Golf Club in the world that can boast that two of its former Club Champions have gone on to win a golfing major and as David Bell puts it, “it is fantastic that one of Virginia’s favourite sons and one of our two Major Champions can now play a leading part in improving the Course of Champions for a whole new generation of champions!”

(L to R) Paul Weidman and Anthony Musgrave have big plans for Gainsborough Greens and long-term members Irvine Gillies and Bob Baxter are looking forward to the future with the new management team in place ONE of the Gold Coast’s oldest established golf courses, Gainsborough Greens at Pimpama, is now being run by the company also responsible for Windaroo Lakes and Palm Meadows golf courses.

Gainsborough Greens Golf Course is owned by national, publicly listed real estate development company Mirvac and forms the centre piece of a large master planned residential community which will ultimately comprise over 2200 home sites.

Mirvac has appointed specialists GC Golf Management headed up by Paul Wiedman and Anthony Musgrave to run the golf course and the golf club.

For Weidman and Musgrave, taking control of Gainsborough Greens is a return to the past.

Weidman worked at Gainsborough Greens for 12

years after it first opened more than two decades ago and when he left he was golf operations manager. “Not only did I work there for a long time, but I got married there and we lived in the caretaker’s house so my feeling for and links with Gainsborough Greens are very strong,” he said.

GC Golf Management says that members will derive immediate benefits with playing benefits at the other two courses the company operates and they will also see improvements in standards as a result of the combined talent pool and expertise that the new management company brings to the table.

“We pride ourselves in the quality of our courses and we know that the condition of our golf courses and they experience that they provide is our best advertisement,” said Weidman.

$150m Golden Bear development still on track Australian based company Capital Corporation is proposing to build a $150 million world-class golf and recreation complex in Cessnock, NSW, designed by legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus. The development will include a five-star resort and prestigious residential accommodation. The international standard golf course and resort is planned for a 240 hectare site adjacent to the Vintage development.

Capital Corporation Managing Director, Greg Taylor, said Nicklaus had chosen the site for one of his 25 unique signature clubs around the world. “This project includes an international standard golf course, a clubhouse and five-star 50 room hotel, over 250 luxury villas and apartments providing short stay accommodation and around 300 residential dwellings,” Mr. Taylor said.

It is estimated that the development will inject $6.5 million into the local economy annually.

This annual return, together with the initial capital investment to establish the resort, will make the Jack Nicklaus Golf Course of Australia a significant employer in the area and provide long term financial stimulus to the economy.

“This development will be a major international tourist destination providing significant economic benefits for the area and significant employment opportunities,” Mr. Taylor said. “International tourists will come into the resort as part of their golfing holiday and experience the Hunter Valley.”

March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au.............................................................................................................................................................................................

TaylorMade boss predicts ‘rebound year for golf ’ ON the heels of a record-breaking sales year that was fuelled by the introduction of white metalwoods, TaylorMade Golf Company President and CEO Mark King predicted more momentum in the golf marketplace and an even bigger sales year for the company’s three brands: TaylorMade, adidas Golf and Ashworth.

Eager to surpass benchmarks achieved in 2011, TaylorMade Golf Company was at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando to officially launch its 2012 offerings – which included the much-anticipated R11S and RocketBallz equipment lines.

“This was one of the most electrifying PGA Shows that I can remember and my immediate takeaway was that the best is yet to come for not only our brands, but the entire industry,” said King. “The weather was perfect, the foot traffic and buzz on our showroom floor was incredible. It just feels like this could be the rebound year for golf.”

TaylorMade Golf Company is already on track to sell over one million white metalwoods by end of first quarter, a significant milestone that wasn’t reached until well into the second quarter last year.

New general manager at Brookwater

The Brookwater Golf & Country Club has appointed Warren Seeto to the role of general manager.

“This role will allow me to bring fresh and innovative ideas to the day-to-day operation of the Club, while still concentrating on – and striving for – my overall vision for the Club’s future,” Seeto said.

Mr Seeto said the Brookwater Golf & Country Club’s members and guests would be his top priority for 2012.

“Whether our guests visit us for a game of golf, to dine in the award-winning Drift at Brookwater, or to perfect their swing with Ian Triggs, my key focus for 2012 is to make sure each and every visit is a memorable one,” Mr Seeto said.

“Looking ahead, my goal is to see Brookwater Golf & Country Club become a solid front-runner in the industry,” he said.

industrynews 13

Work begins on $4 million new clubhouse for Horsham Golf Club

The fire-damaged Horsham Clubhouse in 2009 Horsham Golf Club is set to tee off an exciting new era of golf with works already commencing on a $4 million club house to replace the one destroyed by the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires.

Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty was at the Club recently to launch the country qualifying round of the 2012 Victorian Four Ball Championship and take part in a ceremonial launch signalling the start of the long-awaited project.

“It’s great to see so many people here to take part in this state qualifying event,” Mr Delahunty said.

“It shows just how vital local clubs like Horsham are in the future development of the sport throughout Victoria.

Once complete the new club house project will deliver new change rooms, function areas, meeting

rooms, administration area, bistro, members’ lounge, pro-shop, storage areas and amenities.

The Victorian Government has provided $1 million in funding for the project, contributed by the Department of Planning and Community Development, Sport and Recreation Victoria, Regional Development Victoria and the Community Recovery Fund.

Mr Delahunty congratulated the Horsham Golf Club on its efforts to secure the funding as well as its $3 million contribution towards the project.

“Most importantly, thank you to the army of volunteers and community organisations who have helped the golf club during the recovery process, through cleaning up the area, tree planting and raising important funds,” he said.

New Stonebridge resort opens THE $30 million Stonebridge Golf Club and residential development has opened seven years after the project was first flagged.

The golf-lifestyle resort has been developed by the County Property group and forms part of the redevelopment of the former Oaks Golf Course in Cessnock, NSW. The development comprises an 18-hole championship golf course designed by golfing legend Jack Newton. “This is the culmination of an arduous and lengthy approval process to deliver a first-class product both from a golf course and residential perspective,” County Property Group director Christopher Bean said.

Newton said he was proud of the course design and said there was a good balance of holes for the serious as well as the casual golfer. “Finishing on the par-three 18th hole definitely has the wow factor,” Newton said.

Newton said he played a lot of golf on the former Oaks course in his younger days and the project was special for him. The first home is scheduled to start construction in April 2012 with the entire residential component expected to be completed within three years.

Every residential lot backs onto the golf course.

Golf practice areas and a bowling green are also part of the development.

New role for Meyer

AWA R D - W I N N I N G t e a c h i n g professional Tony Meyer is Golf Queensland’s new head coach following the departure of Garry Calder, who has stepped down from the position after nine years.

Golf Queensland CEO Lindsay Ellis said Calder had been a key part of the success Queensland has achieved at the national level.

“On behalf of Golf Queensland I would like to thank Garry for his continued involvement in developing some of the best players Queensland has produced,” he said.

“Garry has helped lead Queensland to success and will continue to do so in his role at Indooroopilly Golf Club where he is head teaching professional.

“Golf Queensland has been working with Tony for a number of years and we are confident in his ability to identify and nurture talented players.

“Tony is a AAA Australian PGA member, has been the Queensland women’s coach and member of the Queensland golf coaching panel since 2009.”

Meyer is head teaching professional at Virginia Golf Club in Brisbane and the Golf Australia national coach for Queensland. He will continue in his national role.

In 2 0 1 0 , Me y e r re c e i v e d t h e Queensland PGA Teaching Professional of the Year Award.

Prior to moving to Queensland, he was the Australian Institute of Sport assistant coach from 2005-’06 and the South Australian state and junior coach from 2007-’08.

Mike Orloff

morloff@golfindustrycentral.com.au

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March 2012

14 industrynews................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

PGA of Australia

Golf Australia

BrianThorburn

StephenPitt

In another quick start to the year, the PGA Tour of Australasia is back underway at the time of writing with the Adroit Insurance Group Victorian PGA Championship to be followed by the Coca-Cola Queensland PGA Championship and the NZ PGA Pro-Am Championship. These tournaments conclude our run of events for the start of 2012 with the remainder of our schedule expected to be released in the coming month.

Our PGA State Divisions are all currently busy with the finalisation of their annual awards night, an important occasion to recognise the achievements of outstanding PGA Professionals across each state. Already our NSW/ ACT Division has handed their awards out with some exceptional individuals recognised.

A notable honouree was Rebecca Blain who won the NSW/ACT PGA Trainee of the Year award. In doing so Rebecca, who is in the final year of her Traineeship at Antill Park Golf Club, created history becoming the first female winner of the award. Rebecca is one of a large and increasing group of female PGA Professionals and we’re so pleased to see Rebecca perform so well on what can certainly be a challenging yet rewarding career path.

Of the other awards Dubbo Golf Club Professional Craig Mears was honoured with the title of NSW Club Professional of

What a fantastic summer of women’s golf we saw finish in February. Despite pre-event weather challenges, the Gold Coast RACV Ladies Masters was a successful event and congratulations to champion Christel Boeljon.

All eyes then turned to Melbourne as the 2012 LPGA Tour season kicked off at Royal Melbourne Golf Club at the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open. It was a thrilling finish and we congratulate Jessica Korda on her performance in the nailbiting play-off.

The LPGA players enjoyed their time down here and we look forward to seeing even more of the world’s best next year at Royal Canberra Golf Club as part of the ACT’s Centenary celebrations.

A successful women’s golf season finished across the Tasman at the ISPS Handa New Zealand Women’s Open held in Christchurch.

Having players like World Number 1 Yani Tseng, Suzann Pettersen, Cristie Kerr, Jiyai Shin, Brittany Lincicome, Lexi Thompson and Stacy Lewis join our own Karrie Webb, Katherine Hull, and Lindsey Wright competing in the Australian events remains a great boost for women’s golf in Australia.

Among Golf Australia’s key strategic goals is to see more women and more girls involved in the sport at all levels and enjoying the benefits it has to offer. Championships such as the Women’s Open go some way to showcasing the best aspects of this to the broader community.

Rebecca Blain, NSW/ACT PGA Trainee of the year, with Frank Phillips, PGA Life Member the Year while Colin Arnold, father of Tour Professionals Scott and Jamie, was awarded the Teaching Professional of the Year award.

Not surprisingly 2011 OneAsia Order of Merit winner Andre Stolz was named the state’s Player of the Year.

Awards such as these are yet another welcomed opportunity for all those connected with the PGA to reflect on the outstanding work carried out by PGA Professionals across the country every day. While their roles are indeed diverse, the standard of our profession continues to increase, and I look forward to congratulating many other award winners from each state in upcoming editions.

Until then, I wish you all the best for the month ahead.

Jessica Korda Outside of the Open, February was also a busy month in our Championships division with national Foursomes titles at Riversdale Golf Club in Melbourne while preparations continue for the Australian Junior titles in the second week of April at Bribie Island, Carbrook and Pacific Harbour Golf Clubs in Queensland. Our national junior titles boast impressive honour rolls with past men’s champions including Jason Day, Adam Scott, Robert Allenby, Stuart Appleby and Peter O’Malley.

As the names above show, these titles are very much an insight into our potential future Tour superstars.

Finally, 2012 marked the start of the new MYGolf awards to members and centres that excel in their commitment to junior golf. Get involved and make sure your club is in the running to be recognised for its commitment to the next generation of Australian golfers. Visit www.golfaustralia.org.au/mygolf

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March 2012

16 news..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au Stop the clock

Men’s NSW Senior Foursomes Medal

Nick no slow coach

2012 Men’s NSW Senior Foursomes Champions – Greg Stanford and Stephen Albinski, Mona Vale Golf Club.

AUSTRALIA’S former number one amateur Stephanie Na admits to being a slow learner, but not a slow player.

The 22-year-old, who turned pro in 2009, learned another valuable lesson during the RACV Australian Ladies Masters at Royal Pines Resort last month when tournament officials put her and playing partner Caroline Masson of Germany on the clock during the final round.

An official approached the pair on the par-5 15th hole and told them to get a move on.

Shaken, Na bogeyed the hole she expected to birdie.

“I rushed a shot and took a bogey on a birdie hole and that was very frustrating,” Na said.

Na and Masson were behind the eight ball from the start when paired behind gun Americans Stacy Lewis and Lexi Thompson.

Normally, groups tee off eight minutes apart, but Na and Masson’s scheduled tee time was 15 minutes after Lewis and Hamilton.

“We struggled early in the round and never really caught up, but these things happen and I have just got to deal with them better,” Na said.

WHILE on the subject of slow play, there is no truth in the rumour Nick O’Hern is a slow player.

“I don’t think I have ever had an offence for slow play,” O’Hern said.

“I am not aware of being a slow player. I am probably one of the quicker ones I would have thought.

“My routine has always been the same and I have never been penalised for slow play in the US. “I am not sure where that story came from.”

So there you have it – nice guy Nick is no slow coach.

Mona Vale’s pairing Greg Stanford and Stephen Albinski are the 2012 Men’s NSW Senior Foursomes Medal Champions after completing a one-over par round (71) at The Coast Golf Club on 9 January. A great start to the golfing year for 2012 with ideal playing conditions at The Coast.

The format for the event was stroke play; 18 Hole Scratch Stoke Foursomes (18 hole nett in conjunction). For the second year, the event was held in conjunction with the Women’s Summer Foursomes, which proved to be very successful once again with a field of 72 players (36 pairs).

Championship Scratch Winners Greg Stanford and Stefan Albinski from Mona Vale Golf Club were ecstatic with the triumphant win having been runners-up in 2011; they led the field by 5 shots.

Runners-up were Paul Davies and Graeme George from Charlestown Golf Club, finishing with a round of 76.

The Over 65’s prize winners were Darcy Cluff and Tony Gresham from Pennant Hills Golf Club with 80 off the stick, winning by 1 shot.

For full results, images and prize winners visit: www.golfnsw.org

O’Hern switches caddies

FORMER Australian PGA champion Nick O’Hern has a new caddie.

After more than a decade, leftie O’Hern and his long-time caddie James Williams parted company.

“I had James on the bag for about 11-and-ahalf years, but he finished up at the end of last year to go back to England,” O’Hern revealed.

“So Steve Catlin is my new caddie.”

O’Hern said his former caddie was a “good mate”.

“The biggest thing about a player/caddie relationship is you have to gel personality wise,” he said.

“James, my old caddie, and I became good mates. Some guys don’t like getting too close to their caddies, but I have never worried about that.

“I want to have a good mate out there with me.

“As long as they are punctual, are good at their numbers and they know your game to tell you when they think you are wrong and when you are right.

“They must have the courage to stand up to a player when the player doesn’t think he’s wrong,” said O’Hern, who loves watching soccer, Aussie Rules and cricket in his spare time.

“I’m a Fremantle Dockers fan and I like Wolverhampton Wanderers, who play in the English Premier League,” he said.

“I have followed Wolves all my life and they have always been struggling, but I love watching the soccer.”

O’Hern’s neighbour in Orlando (Florida) is Aussie and former Liverpool player Craig Johnson.

“Craig lives around the corner and we always have a bit of a ribbing with each other,” O’Hern said.

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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au............................................................................................................................................................................................................

England’s Raymond wins Men’s NSW Medal The 2012 Men’s NSW Medal was played at Long Reef and Mona Vale Golf Clubs last month.

The event was initially scheduled to be played over 72-holes (18-holes Wednesday, 18-holes Thursday, 36-holes at Mona Vale on Friday), however with significant rainfall over the first two days of play, and heavy showers on the Thursday night, Mona Vale was underwater on the Friday and therefore the final 36-holes had to be cancelled.

That meant that the joint leaders after the first 36-holes, Englishman Neil Raymond (Corhampton GC, England) and Brett Drewitt (Long Reef GC) who both finished on 144, would need to contest a playoff to determine the 2012 Medal winner. Mona Vale green staff prepared the par-3 6th hole to make it playable for the playoff.

Drewitt held the upper hand after their tee shots, landing safely on the green, while Raymond pulled his shot to the left, before chipping up to 15 feet. Drewitt —feeling like a two putt would be good enough to take the title—tried to lag his first putt to the hole, but unfortunately left himself six feet away. The Englishman calmly rolled in his par putt, leaving Drewitt a putt to halve the hole, which he failed to make.

The winner of the 2011 Champion of Champions competition was Morriset’s David Morgan who followed up his 2-under round of 70 on Day 1 at Mona Vale with a one over round of 72 on the Thursday at Long Reef.

For full report, results and prize winners go to www.golfnsw.org.

Morgan & Roberts win Summer Foursomes Jacqui Morgan & Jennifer Roberts have taken out the title in the 2012 Women’s Summer Foursomes competition, held at The Coast Golf Club. The Coast was in perfect condition and the setting for a spectacular start to the year.

A strong field of 118 players (59 pairs) took part, the participants coming from all over the NSW region.

The first day of play was 18-holes foursomes, with the ladies teeing off from 7.00am.

In Division 1 Jacqui Morgan & Jennifer Roberts from Monash Golf Club won the scratch prize with 87 off the stick. The Nett winners were Jill Vanderkooi & Judy Smith from The Coast Golf Club with 77.

Truda Rail from Strathfield Golf Club & Gillian Virginie from Concord Golf Club won Division 2 with a score of 91 on a countback from Elizabeth Dunn & Roz Black from Mona Vale Golf Club. Margaret Colmer & Marie Rowles from Chatswood Golf Club won the Nett prize with 73.

The scratch for Division 3 was won by June Hird and Dianne Mayger from Kareela Golf Club with 103. The Nett winners were Gail Earle and Wendy Hamer from The Coast with 72.5.

The leading four pairs in each division qualified for the Match Play on the second day of play, with semi-finals in the morning, and finals in the afternoon.

The first match in the Division 1 semi-finals saw Jacqui Morgan and Jenny Roberts from Monash win 3/2. Lynette Hall and Tracey Wood from Camden Lakeside won the second match for Division 1 with 5/4.

In the final, Morgan and Roberts proved too strong for Hall and Wood taking the match 5/3

2012 Women’s Summer Foursomes Champions – Jacqui Morgan and Jenny Roberts, Monash Golf Club to take out the title for Division 1 for 2012.

Division 2’s first semi-final was won by Rail and Virginie in a close match, finishing on the 19th hole. Jane Loveday and Christine Souza from The Lakes won the second of the Division 2’s semi-finals with 5/3.

In the final match for Division 2 it was Rail and Virginie who took the spoils, defeating Loveday and Souza with 6/4.

Division 3 was decided with both pairs from The Coast winning their semi-finals to make it an all Coast final. Glenys Jones and Margaret Sutherland won 8/6 to take out the first match and Gwennyth Chance and Karen White won the second match 6/5.

It was obviously going to be a victory to The Coast Golf Club in Division 3 regardless of the result, however in a strong performance Jones and Sutherland beat Chance and White 7/6 to take the title.

Antill Park

nswevents 17

Drewitt wins 2012 Men’s NSW Amateur Championship in thriller It came down to the final two in the 2012 Men’s NSW Amateur Championship being held at Elanora Country Club; 21-year-old Brett Drewitt from Long Reef Golf Club and 30-year-old Michael Lambert from New South Wales Golf Club.

Both players had overcome some tough matches in the earlier rounds, with Drewitt defeating the talented Jake Higginbottom (The Australian GC) 3 & 2 and youngster Ricky Kato (Bonnie Doon GC) 2 & 1 in a tough match.

Lambert knocked out Kiwi Daniel Pearce 3 & 1, and Callan O’Reilly (Pennant Hills GC) on the 19th in an exciting semi-final.

The final was played over 36-holes. Lambert had a good start and took an early lead 1up after 3 holes, and held that lead through to the 9th.

Drewitt then clawed back to sit at 1 up after 12.

It was an extremely tight match from there on in, eventually coming right down to the wire.

At 3up with three to play, it looked like Drewitt had it in the bag. However some solid play from Lambert saw him take both the 34th and 35th hole.

With a good crowd following the pair, it was down to the 36th hole of the match. Both players played it well off the tee, then put reasonable shots onto the green. Lambert’s long putt landed just a few feet from the hole. Drewitt’s long putt just behind it. In a tense final shot, Drewitt holed the putt, halving the hole and securing him the victory.

It is Drewitt’s fourth amateur title, the others being the 2010 Queensland Amateur, 2010 Pacific Northwest Amateur, and the 2011 South Australian Amateur Classic.

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March 2012

18 nationalevents.........................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Holden Scramble returns for its 21st birthday There might not be any embarrassing speeches and photos, but this 21st is sure to be memorable. The Holden Scramble turns 21 this year, off the back of one of the most successful years in recent history, with over 440 events and nearly 38,000 players joining the celebrations.

As part of the 20th Anniversary celebrations, there were numerous promotions and prize giveaways, such as V8 Hotlaps, Netball test series tickets, Callaway gift packs, PGA gift cards and more. But the main prize draw was by far the brightest candle on the birthday cake with GM Holden giving away a brand new Series II Holden Cruze for one lucky Scrambler.

Trevor Isaacs, from Cheltenham was the lucky man fortunate enough to win the keys to Australia’s most popular small car after playing in the Holden Scramble at Kingswood Golf Club.

In 2011 the Holden Scramble also welcomed Delta Air Lines onboard as a support sponsor.

To celebrate the new relationship, Delta gave away two return tickets and accommodation to the USA plus tickets to the 2012 US Open in San Francisco. The lucky Holden Scrambler to have his name pulled out was Adam Watson, who played in the Holden Scramble at Nowra Golf Club in New South Wales.

So after a fantastic milestone year which saw some amazing achievements and plenty of memorable moments it’s now time for the Holden Scramble to sink its teeth into its 21st year. The Scramble’s 21st presents include a rejuvenated prize pack thanks to Callaway Golf and some new social media initiatives

to get further involvement from the nearly 40,000 Holden Scramblers out there.

The Holden Scramble prizes that will be up for grabs at every one of the expected 460 events run across the country this year will feature four brand-new Callaway Deluxe Cart Bags for the winning team as well a mixture of additional prizes, such as golf towels, pitch repairers and ball markers to complete a fantastic table of prizes.

Being the 21st year of the Holden Scramble, it’s also time to keep up with the 21st century and so the Holden Scramble is now on Facebook, keeping new and regular Scramblers connected with the event and the golfing world! All you need to do is like their Facebook page and you will have access to

all the hints and tips passed on by Holden Scramble players and professionals as well as regular prize giveaways.

This is also the place to put your team in Holden Scramble history by posting a photo of your team or perhaps a video of a teammate’s incredible (or incredibly bad) shot. Facebook is the new platform for bragging Scramblers, so share your stories and memories to make this a memorable 21st birthday!

Prizes will be given away to the best team uniform, best action shot, or best highlight of the day, so get onto Facebook and help us make 2012 the best year of the Holden Scramble yet!

For more information on the Holden Scramble, visit www.holdenscramble.com.

The Links Privilege Card Become a Social Member of Links Hope Island

Links Hope Island recently announced the launch of the L in ks Pr iv i lege Card - a program designed to attract beginners, non-golfing families and social golfers to enjoy the course and facilities of Links Hope Island.

The Links Privilege Card is valid for 12 months from date of purchase, and provides the holder with over $450.00 worth of upfront and ongoing benefits for only $199.00. These benefits include: • one 18 hole game of golf • two twilight games of golf • ten large buckets of range balls • one 30 minute private golf lesson with one of their highly qualified PGA instructors • ongoing discounts on the golf course access outside of member competition times • discounts on Food & Beverage and Golf Shop purchases Gold Coast golfers are encouraged to join the program, it is a great way to experience golf, the club, the restaurant and the atmosphere of Links Hope Island.

For more information contact Mark Holland (07) 5530 9087 or via e-mail mark.holland@linkshopeisland.com.au

WIN! One of three Links Privilege Cards, valued at $199 ea. Visit www.insidegolf.com.au and click on the competitions link to enter.

Join us on facebook

Who’s your fantastic four?

Select your team of four to play in the Holden Scramble 2012 season.

Visit your local PGA Professional to enter now!

PGA Events Division on 03 8320 1999

holdenscramble.com

NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW NSW

Coastal Golf Cars Port Macquarie Motor Cycles DTM Colemans Readfords Motor Cycles Thomas Lee Motor Cycles Eurells Merimbula Mowers And Marine Droop & Elliott Excite Motorsports

Coff Harbour Port Macquarie Tammworth Newcastle Dubbo Moree Narrandera Merimbula Mulwala Penrith

(02) 6651 6338 (02) 6583 6060 (02) 6762 2606 (02) 4957 5211 (02) 6882 2888 (02) 6752 3566 (02) 6959 2949 (02) 6495 4495 (03) 5744 3983 (02) 4722 6222

ACT QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD QLD

Golf Cars Canberra Moto Sport Yamaha Ron Glass Marine Bunderburg Marine Land Maryborough Motor Cycles Drummond Golf North Coast Moto Sport Gold Coast West

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Horsham GC Braeside Drioun Mildura Geelong Mulwala Casino CC Cavan Osborne Park Darwin

(03) 5382 3312 (03) 9587 5480 (03) 5625 4980 (03) 5022 2840 0407 218 650 (03) 5744 3983 (08) 6335 5740 (08) 8349 5499 (08) 9443 1117 (08) 8941 5388

March 2012

20 events...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au Leedham easy winner in Tassie Seniors

Blizard takes the NSW Senior Classic

2012 Tasmanian Senior Champion Michael Leedham and Runner-up Ross Percy Local member Michael Leedham played outstanding golf to win the 2012 Tasmanian Senior Amateur Championship played at Mowbray Golf Club last month. In winning, Leedham claimed his fifth Tasmanian Seniors title. Opening with a two-under-par 69 and finishing with a one-underpar 70 Leedham proved too strong for a good field of more than 80 senior amateurs.

Leedham (69-73-70) finished on a 54- hole total of 212 which was one under par. In second place, seven strokes behind Leedham, was the defending champion, Victorian Ross Percy (6974-76) . Queenslander newcomer David Burton (74-74-73) was impressive in finishing third in his first Australian Senior Ranking event.

The handicap section was a very close battle with another local member Doug Knowles (7469-65) finishing level with Victorian visitor Peter Bence (67-68-73). Knowles’ final round net 65 was the competition’s equal best handicap round and it helped him make up many strokes on the final day to share first place. Third place went to Launceston senior David Hamilton (65-69-75) who had opened with a round of net 65.

Full details and scores available at www.ausoom.com.

2012 NSW Senior Classic Champions Greg Stanford and Graham Blizard The 2012 NSW Senior Classic was played at two of Australia’s top courses – The Lakes and The Australian Golf Clubs on February 6-7. As was to be expected, both venues had capacity fields as senior golfers took up the challenge of competing on the same courses as the 2007, 2010 and 2011 Australian Opens.

Round one was held at The Lakes and the players at were presented with a real challenge as 60kph winds hit the course as the first players teed off. Although only five players managed to break 80 everyone enjoyed the challenge. Steve Gibson from St Michael’s was the round one leader with a very good score of 76 in difficult conditions.

The playing conditions were somewhat easier at The Australian the next day and the scoring improved. New South Wales Golf Club member Graham Blizard maintained his consistently good golf with a score of 75 and added to his opening 78 it was enough for him to claim the title.

Mona Vale senior Greg Stanford was another to continue his recent good form and he finished in second place with rounds of 82 and 74. Third place went to Wyong golfer Norm Hollis who with rounds of 79 and 78 was one of only two golfers to break 80 each day.

Full details on all NSW Order of Merit events are available here – www.ausoom.com.

MARCH SENIOR EVENTS Date Event Feb 28-Mar 1 NSW Senior Championship – Lynwood GC Mar 8-9 Cranbourne Seniors - Victoria Mar 8 Cumberland Seniors – NSW Mar 12 Castle Hill seniors – NSW Mar 16 Gungahlin Lakes – NSW Mar 18-19 Lake Karrinyup Seniors – Western Australia Mar 19 Mt Osmond Seniors – South Australia Mar 20 Pennant Hills Seniors – NSW Mar 21-23 West Australia Senior Amateur – Cottesloe GC Mar 22-23 Alpine Senior Masters – Bright GC, Victoria Mar 25-27 Australian Seniors vs ADFGA – The National GC Mar 26 Tea Tree Gully Seniors – South Australia Mar 29 Victorian GA vs ADFGA – Sorrento GC Women’s Jean Derrin / Senior OOM Events Event Wyong Classic (JD) The Australian Golf Club Medal (JD) Illowra Tournament (JD) Endeavour Salver (JD) Division One Open Day (JD) Asquith Cup (JD)

Venue Wyong GC

March 5

The Australian GC 8 – 9 Port Kembla GC 11 – 13 Cronulla GC

12

Royal Canberra GC 22

Asquith GC

27

Written and compiled by Denis Dale

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March 2012

22 events...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Lakelands Golf Course

The Links Hope Island

Casino Employees Gold Coast Charity Golf

The Links Hope Island 2012 Ladies Rosebowl

(Benefiting the Adam Scott Foundation) When: March 26th to March 29th Where: Royal Pines, Robina Woods and Lakelands

golf courses Info: www.ctpromotions.com.au

Where: Links Hope Island When: 26th March, 16th July, 17th September, 3rd December, 5th December 2012 Info: e-mail golfmail@linkshopeisland.com.au

Casino employees around Australasia will descend onto the Gold Coast this month as they tee it up as part of the 2011 2012 Casino employees Gold Coast Charity Golf Tournament, March 26-29.

This unique three-day golf tournament is being hosted by Jupiters Hotel & Casino, along with Royal Pines, Robina Woods and Lakelands golf courses. Revenues from the event will benefit the Adam Scott Foundation. The foundation supports the disadvantaged and underprivileged youth by providing opportunities to fulfil potential or overcome difficulties throughout life’s journeys. It also is a massive supporter of Autism Australia with many programs in place.

Over 400 Casino employees across Australasia will enjoy three days of competitive but fun golf (plus a free practice day) and visit the world famous Gold Coast Beaches. Some will choose to give Whitewater World or Dreamworld a visit, or enjoy the option of staying a little longer and going to see The TITANS play the Bulldogs at Skilled Park or on Sunday go and watch the Gold Coast Suns take on the Adelaide Crows at METRICON Stadium.

The golf event is limited to 34 teams of four, so you will need to book as soon as you can. In addition, don’t miss the 888PL Poker Tournament on Wednesday March 28. The “Casino Employees Challenge” is open to past and present casino employees, so shuffle it up and enter! $400 (+GST) entry fee includes Golf, buggies, transfers, Shirt, Goodie bag, functions, Player Poker night, prizes and more.

Plus: Organisers have also included in your package free members passes to the Gold Coast Turf Club on the Saturday prior to the event and after the event!

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Lady golfers from Brisbane and Gold Coast are invited to the Links Hope Island 2012 Ladies Rosebowl events.

General Manager Mark Holland states “This year the 2012 Ladies Rosebowl will be bigger and better than ever before.

Ladies will play single stableford in conjunction with a team aggregate stableford.”

“It is a great day with the ladies teeing off at 8.30 am and finishing up with lunch, fashion show, presentations and fabulous prizes. The day includes 18 holes of championship golf, shared electric carts (with GPS), tea / coffee and biscuits on arrival. All players receive a welcome bag at registration” Mark said For bookings call (07) 5530 9000 or for more information contact Mark Holland (07) 5530 9087 or via e-mail mark.holland@linkshopeisland.com.au

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GOLF CART SLOWING DOWN? Need new batteries? Don’t replace them…

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The Battery Reviver can bring old batteries back to life by sending a high frequency pulse through the batteries dissolving the sulphate build up and turning the sulphur crystals back into sulphuric acid. The Battery Reviver is powered by your golf cart batteries and it can be left connected permanently to increase the life of your batteries by up to three times, or used occasionally to restore them.

For more information, pricing and to order visit our website www.batteryreviver.com.au or Phone 1300 852 433

Come try golf!

at Palm Meadows Driving Range

Friday demo nights are back at Palm Meadows Driving Range on the Gold Coast! Come demo the latest quality gear, compete in Long Drive and NTP comps and get free tips from The Golf School coaches. Check out some of the most advanced technology being used to teach the game of golf- Somax, SwingModel, FocusBand and Balanceplate.

Every Friday afternoon from 3pm, starting March 2. What a great way to get ready for the weekend. (Licensed venue as well.)

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March 2012

24 events...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au Leukaemia Foundation Golf Classic

Australian Junior Championships

Where: Royal Melbourne Golf Club When: April 2 Info: www.leukaemia.org.au

Where: Queensland When: 11-19 April Info: www.golfaustralia.org.au

The Australian Boys’ and Girls’ Amateur championships and the Australian Boys & Girls Interstate Teams Matches tee off next month in Queensland, with Australia’s top junior players aiming for glory. Defending champions Anthony Murdaca (SA) and Cathleen Santoso (NSW) will battle against juniors from across the country, all aiming to notch their names on the trophies that include South Australia’s Anthony Murdaca illustrious names of past winners like Jason Day, Adam Scott, Robert Allenby, Stuart Appleby and Peter O’Malley. Past girls’ winners include Sarah Oh, Sarah Kemp, Sarah JaneSmith, Tamie Durdin and Wendy Doolan, so the quality of play at this event is sure to be high.

DATES AND LOCATIONS Australian Girls’ Amateur: 11–13 April; Carbrook GC Australian Boys’ Amateur: 11–13 April; Bribie Island GC

Australian Girls’ Teams Matches: 15–17 April; Carbrook GC Australian Boys’ Teams Matches: 16–19 April; Pacific Harbour GC

april

May

TORO North Queensland Cup

South Pacific Ladies Open Golf Classic

Where: Paradise Palms When: 28-29th April Info: www.paradisepalms.com.au

Experience championship golf at North Queensland’s Premier Golf course, Paradise Palms, which is consistently ranked in Australia’s top 100. The North QLD Cup is a 36 hole 2-person amateur team event over 2 days, playing best ball and foursomes format, with one of Australia’s largest amateur prizes on offer: a trip for two to the US Open valued at $10,000 (terms and conditions apply).

Entry is $295 per person, and includes: Event shirt and cap, On-course refreshments, TORO BBQ Lunch, XXXX GOLD Happy Hours. Daily scratch & handicap prizes to be won.

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Join a variety of Australia’s leading businesses in this new premier corporate golf event to support the Leukaemia Foundation of Australia.

Held at Royal Melbourne Golf Club, this exciting event will help support the 11,500 Australians who are diagnosed with leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and related blood disorders this year. Help the Leukaemia Foundation to continue to provide essential services to patients and carers including accommodation close to treatment, information, education and counselling.

Your participation will also enable the Leukaemia Foundation to continue its Vision to Cure and build on more than $20million already invested in cutting-edge blood cancer research through the Foundation’s National Research Program.

To secure your spot contact: Meaghan Bush on (03) 9949 5803 or email golfclassic@leukaemia.org.au

Where: Surfers Paradise Golf Club When: 27th to 30th May Info: www.surfersparadisegolfclub.com.au Paradise Palms Golf Course Open to male competitors with an official golf handicap (maximum 27).

For more details contact Des Shearer, Director of Golf on dshearer@paradisepalms.com.au or by phone on (07) 4059 9901 Mob: 0418 791 086.

The South Pacific Ladies Open Classic is one of the longest-running ladies amateur golf tournaments in Australia, held at the beautiful Surfers Paradise Golf Course on the Gold Coast. This year is the 40th Anniversary of the event and promises to be the best ever! This prestigious event opens with a mixed foursomes event on Sunday 27th May, followed by a 54-hole Nationally Ranked event (stroke) 

March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au..........................................................................................................................

events

held over 3 days and includes the following 3 categories: Classic Open (Handicap 0-22); Masters-Mid-Amateur (3054 Yrs. Handicap 0-33) and Senior Division (55 Years + AUSTRALIAN Handicap 0-33).

SOCIAL GOLF CLUB The South Pacific Ladies Open Classic attracts players CHAMPIONSHIPS from clubs all over Australia, New Zealand, Vanuatu, PNG and the Cooks Islands. Former winner of the event and AUSTRALIAN 8-time LPGA winner, Rachel Hetherington will be making SOCIAL GOLF CLUB Australian Social Golf Club special guest appearances and presentations.

CHAMPIONSHIPS Prizes in all categories including daily gross and net Championships prizes, longest drives and nearest the pin. ‘Diamonds on Broadbeach’ will be awarding jewellery for a Hole in One Where: Gold Coast (54 Hole Event only).

When: August 19-22 Info: www.socialgolfaustralia.com.au

August

Port Stephens Classic

Where: Various Courses When: August 12 to 17 Info: golfclub@nelsonbaygolf.com.au A golf tournament aimed at exposing visitors to the delights of playing top courses in beautiful Port Stephens is now taking registrations for its 16th year.

The Port Stephens Classic will offer golfers the chance to play the bushland 27-hole course at Nelson Bay, the championship Pacific Dunes course at Medowie and the prestigious Newcastle layout at nearby Fern Bay. Play is over four days with a registration-cocktail party on Sunday August 12 and a rest day on the Wednesday, giving players and their partners the chance to enjoy the other tourist attractions, shops and restaurants of Port Stephens. The week finishes with a presentation dinner on Friday, August 17.

The format for the classic is four rounds of stableford golf with prizes upwards of $5000 offered to daily winners and the overall winners in grades. Limited field of just 200 players.

For more details on this excellent and friendly golf holiday break contact Nelson Bay Golf Club on (02) 4981 1132 or email golfclub@nelsonbaygolf.com.au

The Australian Social Golf Club Championships is one of the most exciting and enjoyable events for Australian amateur golfers, attracting golfers from around the country who enjoy their golf and the experience of playing in a professional tournament atmosphere.

The 2012 tournament features some great new elements to make it even more fun and super value. The Radisson Resort Gold Coast is offering entrants discount accommodation, entrants will again receive discount golf vouchers worth over $300 and one lucky golfer will win a free golf trip to Thailand worth $2500 for the 2013 SGA International.

In 2012, the tournament will be played at Palm Meadows, Lakelands Golf Club and Robina Woods. There will also be an increase in the prize pool to over $15,000 of prizes, trophies and giveaways with Drummond Golf a continuing sponsor and partner.

Entry forms available in Drummond Stores around Australia. For more information and a PDF version of the entry forms, go to the SGA website at www.socialgolfaustralia.com.au or contact them directly on (03) 5433 3213.

GOLF NSW – MARCH Event CALENDAR

2012 QLD Sunshine Tour

Golf NSW Events EVENT VENUE Women’s Summer CSGA District Meeting Women’s Senior Coffs Harbour GC Amateur Champs

Date

Men’s Vardon Events NSW Cup New South Wales GC Morisset Open Morisset GC Amateur Monash Masters Monash CC Charlestown Cup Charlestown GC Oatlands Cup Oatlands Wyong Open Wyong GC Amateur Asquith Cup Asquith GC

DATE(S) 5-8 March

Tournament

Money (TBC)

MARCH Thur-Sun 1st-4th

Australian 4 Ball Pro-Am $50,000 Championship

Wed 7th

Ballina

26 – 30 March

$10,000

3 March 3 March

APRIL

5 March 10 March 10 March 17 March

MAY Wed-Thurs 16th-17th Blackwater

$25,000

24 March

Sat-Sun 19th-20th

TBC

Pennant and Inter-Club Competitions Women’s Grade Round 1 Various Mixed Pennants Playoff Various Men’s Major Pennants Round 4 Various Mixed Pennants Playoff Various Men’s Major Pennants Round 5 Various Women’s Grade Round 2 Various Mixed Pennants – Playoff Various Men’s Major Pennants Round 6 Various Women’s Grade Round 3 Various Mixed Pennants – Finals Various Men’s Major Pennants – Semi Finals Various

2 March 4 March 4 March 11 March 11 March 16 March 18 March 18 March 23 March 25 March 25 March

For information on any of the above events, or for a full list of fixtures go to: www.golfnsw.org

Thur-Sun 26th-29th Morobe Open

Thur-Sun 3rd-6th

$100,000

Papua New Guinea Open $135,000 Emerald

Wed-Thurs 23rd-24th Middlemount

TBC

Sat-Sun 26th-27th

$17,500

Dysart

Wed-Thurs 30th-31st Moranbah

TBC

JUNE Sat-Sun 2nd-3rd

Glenden

TBC

Tues 5th

Calliope

TBC

Thurs 7th

Boyne Island

TBC

Sat 9th

Burrum

TBC

Fri-Sat 22nd-23rd

Sea Temple

TBC

Mon 25th

Cairns

TBC

Thurs-Fri 28th-29th Paradise Palms

TBC

March 2012

26 scorecard..............................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au PGA

AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am 2012

Pos Player Total Strokes 1 Bill Haas -7 277 T2 Keegan Bradley -7 277 T2 Phil Mickelson -7 276 T4 Sergio Garcia -5 279 T4 Jimmy Walker -5 279 T4 Jarrod Lyle -5 279 T4 Dustin Johnson -5 279 Australia/New Zealand Scores T11 Aaron Baddeley -3 281 T17 Adam Scott -1 283 T17 Marc Leishman -1 283 T44 John Senden +4 288 T62 Jason Day +9 293

Pos Player Total Strokes 1 Phil Mickelson -17 269 2 Charlie Wi -15 271 3 Ricky Barnes -13 273 4 Aaron Baddeley -12 274 T5 Dustin Johnson -11 275 T5 Kevin Na -11 275 Australia/New Zealand Scores T15 Steven Bowditch -8 278 T25 Danny Lee -6 280 T25 Geoff Ogilvy -6 280 T35 Mathew Goggin -4 282 T40 Nathan Green -3 283 T67 Stuart Appleby +3 289

Northern Trust Open

Jbe’ Kruger at the New Delhi Masters

EUROPEAN TOUR Avantha Masters

Pos Player Total Strokes 1 Jbe’ Kruger -14 274 T2 Jorge Campillo -12 276 T2 Marcel Siem -12 276 T4 Marcus Fraser -11 277 T4 Jose Manuel Lara -11 277 Australia/New Zealand Scores T23 Marcus Both -4 284 T36 Andrew Dodt -2 286 T36 Scott Barr -2 286 T42 Scott Hend -1 287 T62 Kieran Pratt +6 294 M/C: Darren Beck, Rick Kulacz, David Gleeson

Commercialbank Qatar Masters Pos Player 1 Paul Lawrie T2 Jason Day T2 Peter Hanson 4 John Daly T5 Jean-Baptiste Gonnet T5 Soren Hansen T5 Sergio Garcia T5 Ricardo Gonzalez Australia/New Zealand Scores T20 Brett Rumford T20 Andrew Dodt T25 Richard Green T47 Matthew Zions T59 Marcus Fraser

Total -15 -11 -11 -9 -8 -8 -8 -8

Strokes 201 205 205 207 208 208 208 208

-5 -5 -4 -2 -1

211 211 212 214 215

M/C: Michael Campbell

Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship Pos Player Total Strokes 1 Robert Rock -13 275 2 Rory McIlroy -12 276 T3 Thomas Bjorn -11 277 T3 Graeme McDowell -11 277 T3 Tiger Woods -11 277 T6 George Coetzee -10 278 T6 Matteo Manassero -10 278 T8 Keith Horne -9 279 T8 Paul Lawrie -9 279 T8 Francesco Molinari -9 279 T8 Thorbjorn Olesen -9 279 Australia/New Zealand Scores T63 Marcus Fraser +2 290 T63 Richard Green +2 290 M/C: Andrew Dodt, Jason Day, Michael Campbell, Brett Rumford, Matthew Zions

M/C: Mathew Goggin, Geoff Ogilvy, Robert Allenby, Stuart Appleby, Greg Chalmers, Danny Lee

Waste Management Phoenix Open Pos Player Total Strokes 1 Kyle Stanley -15 269 2 Ben Crane -14 270 3 Spencer Levin -13 271 4 D.J. Trahan -12 272 T5 Brendan Steele -11 273 T5 Kevin Na -11 273 T5 Bubba Watson -11 273 Australia/New Zealand Scores T15 Rod Pampling -8 276 T19 Marc Leishman -7 277 T19 Greg Chalmers -7 277 T33 Robert Allenby -5 279 T40 Jarrod Lyle -4 280 T40 Matt Jones -4 280 T65 Aaron Baddeley +1 285 M/C: Mathew Goggin, Danny Lee, Nick O’Hern

Farmers Insurance Open Pos Player T1 Brandt Snedeker T1 Kyle Stanley 3 John Rollins T4 Cameron Tringale T4 Bill Haas Australia/New Zealand Scores T8 Rod Pampling T22 Robert Allenby T27 Nick O’Hern T27 Aaron Baddeley T33 Greg Chalmers T50 Geoff Ogilvy T52 Marc Leishman T74 Jarrod Lyle

Total -16 -16 -14 -12 -12

Strokes 272 272 274 276 276

-10 -8 -7 -7 -6 -4 -3 -1

278 280 281 281 282 284 285 215

M/C: Gavin Coles, Nathan Green, Steven Bowditch, Mathew Goggin, Danny Lee, Stuart Appleby, Matthew Giles

M/C: Rod Pampling, Nick O’Hern, Jarrod Lyle, Matt Jones, Gavin Coles. W/D: Steve Elkington

ISPS HANDA Women’s Australian Open In one of the most dramatic finishes of any golf tournament in history (Men’s or Women’s), Jessica Korda survived a six-way playoff to claim the Women’s Open title at Royal Melbourne.

Playing in two groups, each of the six players had legitimate chances to win, but Korda prevailed with a monster putt on the second playoff hole.

Pos 1 T2 T2 T2 T2 T2

Player Jessica Korda Julieta Granada Stacy Lewis Brittany Lincicome So yeon Ryu Hee Kyung Seo

Total Strokes -3 289 -3 289 -3 289 -3 289 -3 289 -3 289

In Brief:

LPGA: Top-ranked Yani Tseng successfully defended her Honda LPGA Thailand title for her first win of the year and the 13th of her short but illustrious LPGA career. The 23-yearold birdied the final two holes to close with a 6-under 66 en route to a 19-under 269 victory total. The one-shot win marked the 33rd of her career worldwide.

CHAMPIONS: Kenny Perry captured his second career Champions Tour title, cruising to a five-shot win at the ACE Group Classic. After opening with rounds of 64 and 62 to break the tour’s 36-hole record at 18-under 126, Perry closed with a 2-under 70 in windy conditions to top 2011 winner Bernhard Langer. Perry tied the tournament record for largest margin of victory which stood since 1999. He also tied Langer’s tournament scoring record set last year.

SOUTH AFRICAN: Oliver Bekker captured his maiden Sunshine Tour victory when he fired a final round 2-under 70 to capture the Dimension Data Pro-Am. Bekker posted a 13-under 276 total, two strokes clear of Tyrone Ferreira and Thomas Aiken.

AUSTRALASIAN: Gareth Paddison won the Victorian PGA Championship. Paddison’s winning score of 7-under 277 edged Leighton Lyle, brother of Jarrod Lyle, by one shot.

World Rankings following Northern Trust Open Top 20 Australians Top 20 Rolex World Rankings in Australia 1. Jason Day (7 in world rankings) 2. Adam Scott (8) 3. Aaron Baddeley (39) 4. John Senden (41) 5. Geoff Ogilvy (49) 6. Greg Chalmers (63) 7. Robert Allenby (70) 8. Marcus Fraser (98) 9. Brendan Jones (101) 10. Richard Green (117) 11. Kurt Barnes (134) 12. Brad Kennedy (135) 13. Nick O’Hern (144) 14. Marc Leishman (163) 15. Stuart Appleby (205) 16. Brett Rumford (228) 17. Jarrod Lyle (235) 18. Andre Stolz (238) 19. Mathew Goggin (242) 20. Matthew Jones (248)

1. Karrie Webb (19 in world) 2. Katherine Hull (58) 3. Nikki Campbell (73) 4. Lindsey Wright (104) 5. Tamie Durdin (132) 6. Kristie Smith (149) 7. Karen Lunn (164) 8. Frances Bondad (168) 9. Sarah Kemp (176) 10. Stacey Keating (180) 11. Nikki Garrett (186) 12. Sarah Jane Smith (217) 13. Stephanie Na (275) 14. Vicky Thomas (296) 15. Rebecca Flood (298) 16. Jessica Speechley (301) 17. Rachel Bailey (304) 18. Ashley Ona (327) 19. Wendy Doolan (445) 20. Jodie Fleming (456)

Top 5 World Rankings

Top 5 Rolex Rankings

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Luke Donald (averaged points 9.26) Rory McIlroy (7.81) Lee Westwood (7.80) Martin Kaymer (5.96) Steve Stricker (5.68)

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Yani Tseng (averaged points 16.63) Na Yeon Choi (8.88) Suzann Pettersen (8.81) Cristie Kerr (8.51) Paula Creamer (7.29)

Stats and recaps courtesy of the PGA of Australia, the ALPG and Titleist.

Follow Titleist on Twitter: twitter.com/titleist and Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/titleistanz

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March 2012

28 legendstour....................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Legends Tour report LarryCanning The first Legend Tour Report for 2012 is dedicated to one of the most popular sporting victories this country has seen in years.

During the late 90’s, just about every Aussie golf fan was riding alongside one of our favourite sporting heroes in Ian Baker Finch during his heartbreaking journey from elite major winner to a player who could barely make a cut. While we all hoped and prayed for Finchy to regain his confidence, the elegant Queenslander’s game unravelled like an old Dunlop 65 hit by a gang mower. When it finally became intolerable, Ian turned his talents to golf commentary and is now one of the classiest and most respected TV presenters in the game.

From all reports, Ian was still hitting the ball as well as ever and enjoying playing golf socially but there were some doubts whether his self-confidence would ever return to the point where he could play and, probably more importantly, enjoy competing in professional golf tournaments again. When the 1991 British Open winner turned 50, the rest of us receding hair-liners immediately pondered two issues…would Ian have a crack at the seniors stuff?... and would he ever grow a bloody wrinkle?

The correct answers were… yes and no.

There were signs of encouragement in his first few attempts with some good rounds

in Queensland during the Australian Senior Masters and Perth during The Australian Seniors Open, but it was late December when Finchy finally overcame his demons and proved to his fans and indeed himself, that he was back!

His 6-stroke victory in The Legends Tour Championship at Byron Bay was greeted with rousing support from golfers all over the world and it wasn’t surprising Ian’s victory speech was filled with emotion.

I spoke with Ian recently about his win and the impact it had on his career.

“I went in to the Byron Bay event with no real expectations but to have fun, play my best, catch up with all my OLD mates and help the Legends Tour, club and event continue to grow the profile of the Tour Championship. I was fortunate to win but regardless I feel like all my goals for the week were achieved. The win was a huge bonus and meant a lot as it had been a while.

“My game was far from my old form but showed I still had the confidence to get the job done down the stretch...which as you are well aware is when the apprehension and self-doubt take control at times. It was a very satisfying and emotional victory....when I looked up at the crowd of old friends/Legends during presentation ceremony I realized how much it actually meant to me.

“I look forward to my return to Byron Bay which is one of Australia’s most beautiful places, later this year to defend my title.”

AustrAliAn Junior ChAmPionshiPs 11–19 april 2012

Ian Baker-Finch (Photo © Anthony Powter)

“My game was far from my old form but showed I still had the confidence to get the job done down the stretch... - Ian Baker-Finch

The Australian Legends Tour seems to churn out story after story and I intend to share these with you each month in Inside Golf…. Hopefully one of these yarns will soon involve me!

Next month I will be reporting on the New Zealand Legends Tour including the results of the annual Australia versus New Zealand Senior Challenge, where the Aussies will be

anthony MurdaCa (Sa) Cathleen SantoSo (nSW)

attempting to win back the Nagle-Charles Cup. Last year the Kiwis led by Sir Bob Charles defeated the visiting team at the majestic Lakes Resort in Pauanui and, knowing the Kiwis like I do, they will be doing everything in their power to keep the trophy.

Ever seen a group of 50-year-old men wearing golf clothes doing the Haka?

see our young guns fire!

www.golfaustralia.org.au AustrAliAn Girls’ AmAteur: 11–13 April; Carbrook Golf Club AustrAliAn Boys’ AmAteur: 11–13 April; Bribie island Golf Club AustrAliAn Girls’ teAms mAtChes: 15–17 April; Carbrook Golf Club AustrAliAn Boys’ teAms mAtChes: 16–19 April; Pacific harbour Golf Club

year

March 2012 of www.insidegolf.com.au............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ yo

u!

ontour 29

Lunn triumphs in Canberra

As part of Inside Golf ’s “Year of You” project, Canberra’s Warren Gray (a loyal Inside Golf reader for many years) offers this report of January’s ActewAGL Royal Canberra Ladies Classic.

Karen Lunn put together three solid rounds of golf to notch a 4 stroke victory at the ActewAGL Royal Canberra Ladies Classic in January. Lunn wrapped it up in style with an eagle three on the par-5, 18th hole in the final round. After a good drive and then a 3-wood onto the green, Lunn drained a monster 40-footer to claim the title, edging out runner-up Vicky Thomas from Victoria.

While Lunn is touted as coming from NSW, we in Canberra would claim her as an ACT player as, she played much of her early golf in the region.

Royal Canberra golf course was set up a little harder this year with the rough longer, and the greens harder and faster. This was reflected in the scores from Day One. Kym Larratt from England and Courtney Massey from QLD were day one leaders with solid 3-under (70) scores, while Tamie Durdin, local Nikki Campbell and Lunn were all at 2-under.

The highlight of Day One was a spectacular ace from Durdin on the par-3 13th. I was lucky enough to witness the shot and all I can say was it was in the hole from the moment it

left the club face. For those who like all things statistical, Durdin hit an 8-iron on the 141m par-3 for the ace.

Overnight rain softened up the greens a little for Day 2 and, Lunn consolidated her position by scoring a very impressive 7-under, 66 to take the Day 2 clubhouse lead. Kym Larrat had another solid round and once again fired a 3-under 70 to be three shots back from Lunn. Campbell also fired a 3 under to be one shot further back and ensure she would be in the last group hitting off on the Sunday. For the second day running, there was a hole in one, as NSW player Sunny Park aced the 155m 17th.

After the second round, a “longest drive” competition was held and this was taken out by the crowd favourite Laura Davies. Davies smacked one down the fairway 277m to win this competition. Another notable drive came from Phillis Meti, who was reported to have hit the ball over 300m but, unfortunately, it didn’t stay on the fairway. Kristie Smith and Jessica Korda also had long drives but just not long enough.

Champion Karen Lunn (Photo courtesy of ALPG) Day three was cloudy but no hint of rain and the wind sprang up to make a tough course just that little tougher. Once again, Lunn rose to the occasion and scored a 3-under (70) final round to take out the championship by 4 shots from Vicky Thomas, with Victoria’s Stacey Keating and Kym Larratt tied for third.

Lunn, the 2010 Portugal Ladies Open winner was ecstatic with her win.

“Every win is very special, but to win a tournament somewhere two hours from where I grew up, a place where I’ve spent a lot of time, my cousin came up and there were loads of people from Cowra in the gallery, so that was really nice and made is more special.”

Local favourite Nikki Campbell couldn’t get anything going in the last round and finished outright fifth at six-under par. It was by far her best result in the tournament.

Defending champion Ashley Ona (77) finished tied for 47th, while England’s Laura Davies had her best round of the week, a three-under par 70 to finish tied for 30th. Another notable in the field was young American Jessica Korda who finished tied for 9th at one-under par.

The Royal Canberra Golf Course will host next year’s ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open. The 2013 Open will once again be co-sanctioned with the LPGA which means the quality of golf will be taken to even greater heights when many of the world’s top players converge on the nation’s capital during the ACT’s 100th year anniversary celebrations.

(The ALPG contributed to this story)

Your say Want to share your own story, course review, event report or other golf-related piece? Email us at ed@insidegolf.com.au.

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March 2012

30 ontour...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

The Shark swims again GarrettJohnston In late January, Australian Golf legend Greg Norman and Former United States President Bill Clinton headlined the field at the PGA Tour’s Humana Challenge presented by the Clinton Foundation in La Quinta, California.

What transpired was a magic and excitement that is very rarely felt during a regular season tournament. These old friends enjoyed some terrific crowd support and played for an organization, in Humana, that focuses on the importance of good health. This is a principle that very much encapsulates the way these men lead their lives.

“It was a wonderful experience,” said PGA Tour professional Scott McCarron who had the privilege of being paired with this dynamic duo.

“It’s really a once in a lifetime experience to play with them. Huge crowds, kind of a circuslike atmosphere, a lot going on inside the ropes, people were cheering so hard for President Clinton and Greg Norman.”

This tournament, formerly the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic, had been struggling with support and interest over the last few years.

According to McCarron and a number of other PGA Tour pros, Clinton’s involvement and

subsequently Norman’s, have been instrumental in getting this tournament fully back on the map on the PGA Tour.

“Well at the end of the day I got a phone call, and a phone call I could never say no to,” said Norman earlier in the week.

“I (originally) had no intention on playing. I received a phone call from him (Clinton) and he asked me if I would come and play and I said yes.... on one condition; I said I’ll play if you play with me on Saturday (3rd round)...and that was the agreement we made.”

Norman went on to explain that when he first met Clinton in the early 90s he was skeptical of accepting an invitation to golf with him. Norman, a staunch conservative, decided to ask his friend former president George H.W. Bush what he should do.

Norman revealed that Bush’s response to him was to “respect the office of the President of the United States.”

“So I called the White House back and told them that I’m available,” Norman said.

“And it worked out where I played the first round of the Australian Open, and we organized to play at New South Wales Golf Club in Sydney, the afternoon, which is one of my favourite golf courses in our country.

“From that moment onwards, because I prejudged, I became very good friends with the

Greg Norman enjoys a round with former President Bill Clinton (photo: kendennisphoto.com) person that I prejudged in the wrong way.”

Not only did Norman’s prejudices change toward Clinton but the two of them have developed an unlikely friendship and sincere admiration towards one another.

“I never have a fear of asking him a question that some people might have a fear of asking him,” said Norman. “And he has no problem with the same way with me...we just kind of know we’re in a good place where we can speak and ask questions and talk about things in a very frank and honest fashion. So to me it’s unique in a lot of ways and special in a lot of ways.”

The most recent beneficiaries of this friendship were the tremendously entertained crowd during the Humana Challenge’s third round.

The Clinton, Norman, McCarron, and Mike McCallister (CEO of Humana) group was through nine holes of their third round when a rare sandstorm came up and halted play for the rest of that Saturday in the California desert.

However, the sandstorm wasn’t enough to deter the spirits and outlook of Scott McCarron.

“I’d love to see Greg play more,” said McCarron.

“He still plays very well. He was missing putts but so many of those could have gone in.

Just missing. He still drives the ball as good as anybody. He’s got a phenomenal short game.

He’s got a lot of other things going on with the business that he needs to be able to be involved in and run.”

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The American public was fortunate to see Norman play as he plays professional tournaments very sparingly.

However strong his influence may be on the business of golf he may be even more influential toward the crop of Australia’s current stars of the game.

Greg Chalmers was very happy to see his fellow countryman and childhood hero playing at the Humana Challenge.

“Greg’s been a hero of mine for years,” said Chalmers at the event. “From when I was a kid and started playing the game. Any time he comes out and plays, obviously he’s not as competitive as he used to be when he was at his height but still always every time I see him play I wonder “will that be the last time we see Greg Norman play.”

Chalmers is coming off a splendid end of the year with wins in two of the three big tournaments in Australia. But the early PGA Tour season offers a number of unfamiliar yet welcomed challenges for the Tour journeyman.

“My goal-setting hasn’t really changed at all,” said Chalmers. “Regardless of how I played at the end of the year. I’ve never won on the PGA Tour so my goal at the beginning of the season is to put myself in a position to do that and achieve that.

The great thing about this year is that I have some opportunities to play some World Golf Championship events and I’ll get a chance to play the British Open and who knows how many majors. I haven’t done a lot of those events before, especially the WGC, so I’m really excited about that.”

Chalmers played well in winning the Australian Open and the Australian PGA, but it was his performance in the “thick of battle”

Greg Chalmers

“Greg’s been a hero of mine for years...From when I was a kid and started playing the game.”

- Greg Chalmers during his playoff triumph at the PGA that he is taking the most out of moving forward.

“I hit the fairway (in the playoff). Put it to the middle of the green 20 feet. Exactly what I needed to do under a fair amount of pressure.

That is the stuff that golfers like to see and learn about themselves and find out how good they really are.”

Australian golfers on the PGA Tour are still as close to each other as ever. The Australians’

camaraderie is remaining very strong according to John Senden.

“It’s great,” Senden said at the Humana Challenge. “We stick together very well. It’s one of those deals where we all love to see everyone do well.”

“We just had a barbie at (Ian) Baker-Finch’s on Friday night (of the Humana). We had all the guys over there from the tournament. We went to his house and had a good night.

ontour 31

Senden was also very pleased to see Greg Norman back at an event on the Tour.

“Greg was our idol growing up,” said Senden. “It’s great to see Greg playing again.

We all look up to him. He’s the best Australian player that’s ever played. I didn’t play in Peter Thompson’s era but I always thought he (Norman) was the greatest player when I was growing up.”

Senden is also coming off a solid end to last year having tied for 2nd to Chalmers at the Open in November. Although he hasn’t won on the PGA Tour since his triumph at the 2006 John Deere Classic, Senden is still opportunistic about what is to come.

“I reset the goals to be really competitive in major championships and the World Championship events. Really try and see if I can go out there and win a tournament.

That’s the goal and I look forward to and the challenges of it.”

There are challenges aplenty for this postNorman crop of Aussies on the PGA Tour.

They are dealing with the likes of a rejuvenated Tiger Woods, a proven young Rory McIlroy, and a number of other promising young Americans and Internationals. Will there be another Aussie to ascend to World’s number one for 334 straight weeks? The competition is stiff but they remain supportive of each other and happy to have Norman, at least for one tournament, back on the front lines.

Garrett Johnston is a sports writer and video producer out of Sacramento California. He has been covering the PGA Tour, NBA, and NFL in differing capacities for over five years.

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March 2012

32 ontour...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

The Zions are there for Matt DavidNewbery

HE doesn’t have a huge profile in Australia, but that doesn’t seem to bother Australian professional and European Tour winner Matthew Zions.

“It just inspires me more than anything,” said Zions, who last year won the Saint-Omer Open in France.

Zions, who grew up at Kempsey in country NSW, plays predominantly on the European Tour.

Earlier in his career, he played pennant golf for Bonnie Doon Golf Club in Sydney and attended the University of Colorado in the US where he picked up a degree in finance.

Like most of today’s stars, Zions grew up idolising Greg Norman – a man he would like to spend a few hours with discussing golf.

He would also like to play more golf in Australia, but playing 33 events on the European Tour last year took its toll and, besides, he needed time off to visit his family.

“Right now I am trying to make a mark in Europe and hopefully that’ll get me a little more exposure in Australia,” Zions said.

“Hopefully 2012 will be a killer year and I’ll be able to afford to spend some more time back in Australia.”

But first, he’ll have to iron out the kinks in his game.

“Last year my iron play was the poorest it’s ever been,” the 32-year-old said.

“We had the irons looked at and they were significantly out of whack because I never had them fitted properly.

“Still, it was my best ever on tour, but it was by far my most inconsistent year. When I look back on how ordinary I played, it’s quite encouraging as well.

“With any athlete if your equipment is not 100 per cent it’s hard to compete against the best.”

Zions always had the belief he would end up playing against the best players in the world.

“I don’t think you can fall into competing at such a high level, you have always got to have a dream and believe in it.

“Then you have got to convince yourself you can compete against the Rory McIlroys and the Lee Westwoods.”

Of course, Zions now shares the fairways with players of the highest calibre.

Matt Zions at the 2012 Volvo Golf Champions event in South Africa (©Volvo in Golf) “I played with Retief Goosen and Miguel Ángel Jiménez in Germany a week after I won in France,” Zions said. “We had a ton of people following us and it was nerve-wracking for the first couple of holes, but after a while they are talking to you and calm you down.

“It was fun and I learned a lot. Just watching them play spurs you on to want to play good golf.

“With the top players in the world it’s as if they have a remote control in their pocket telling the ball where to go.

“I have had flashes of that, but they do it consistently. A bad day for these guys is even par or one-under and good days six-, seven- or eightunder-par.

“It’s fun to watch and encouraging at the same time.

It spurs you on to want to work harder to get there.

“Sitting around trying to figure it out is not going to help you. I have all the right stuff now to get me going – it’s just about getting out there and doing it.

“A lot of it is mental – it’s the only way you can separate yourself. We all hit the ball similarly, but it’s being able to hit the shots under the gun when it counts.

“You know you can do that when there’s nothing on the line, but can you hit them under pressure?”

“You can hit as many balls as you like, but it’s not going to prepare you for that scenario.”

While Zions was doing the hard yards in Europe, his thoughts were constantly with his wife Leah and

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two young daughters in the US. “Trying to structure my life on my golf, practice, gym, seeing my family and my coach is not easy.

“Professional golf is a tough sport. You have 156 guys out there that are capable of winning so you have got to be patient.”

This year Zions and his family will base themselves in London.

“I will have my family with me so I am confident it’s going to be a good year.

“I have a good plan and schedule mapped out and will play around 26-27 events.

“It’s exciting and you almost get too excited of how great it can be so you have got to hold back a little bit.

In preparation for the 2012 season, Zions is hoping to “pick the brains” of 1981 Open Championship winner Bill Rogers.

Zions’ mentor, Dave Meredith of Bonnie Doonfame, has put the pair in touch. Meredith stays in touch with Rogers, winner of the 1981 Australian Open, for whom he caddied for a few years.

“I am hoping I can spend some time with Bill and pick his brains,” Zions said.

“He won the British Open and was the leading money on PGA Tour in 1981 so I am always looking to learn and see how those guys did it.

“I have been around quite a while now, but it’s always good to hear from major winners and guys who made a good living playing golf.

“I hope one day I can get to pick Greg Norman’s mind. That would be fun.”

Club keeps head above water

IT’S hard to believe, but Dalby Golf Club on Queensland’s Darling Downs is maintained by just two paid greens staff members – and one only works part-time.

The club’s manager Leanne Toms said the club relied heavily on volunteers to make up the slack.

“It’s a big job for the greenkeeper who does more hours than he should, but he never complains,” Toms said.

“Even on weekends he goes out early to check no one has pinched the flags.

“They do a great job maintaining the 18-hole golf course, which is a very good, challenging course.

“It’s looking great at the moment and the greens are in wonderful condition.”

According to Toms, it has been a difficult 12 months for the 250-member golf club.

Last year’s big flood engulfed the golf course leaving the club with a $100,000 clean-up bill and $50,000 in lost revenue.

That put a big hole in their budget.

Then, two months later, it was on again when two heavy downpours flooded the course again.

“We had a little money in the bank which was going to be used to build a new pro shop, extend the verandah and renovate the original part of the clubhouse,” Toms said.

“But we have had to scale back our plans because a lot of the money went towards getting the course up and running again.”

Still, the club plans to build a new pro shop to replace the old demountable temporarily put there 30 years ago.

When the course dried out, cracks wider than golf balls opened up around the course.

“The golfers were losing their golf balls down the cracks, which were five or six inches deep,” Toms said.

“Fortunately, the recent rain has seen the cracks close up and we had a really good Christmas with lots of golfers coming out.”

Dalby’s members pay just $390 for full membership.

“The members will jump up and down if we try and put up our fees.”

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March 2012

34 newproducts.................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Nike Lunar Ascend:

Callaway Apparel: Designed in partnership with esteemed Miami fashion house, Perry Ellis, Callaway’s Australian Apparel collection resonates performance, style and innovation to be worn on and off the course.

The Callaway apparel collection for men and women includes polo shirts, knitted sweaters and vests, lightweight outer wear jackets, pants, shorts and skirts.

Callaway have introduced innovative fabrics to enhance players’ comfort levels, including moisture wicking fabric to draw the moisture away from the skin onto the outer layers of the fabric, making it dry quicker. The cotton blend resists wrinkles, while the Anti-Microbial technology means that they will stay fresher for longer.

Callaway have also introduced UPF +15 for added sun safety against ultraviolet rays. www.callawaygolf.com/au

RealX Cooling towels: If you ever get hot out on the golf course (and of course you do!), then the RealX cooling towel is the answer. Simply wet the RealX cooling towel and it stays cold for 6 hours. The cooling technology in the towels is made for the extreme performance needs of golfers, athletes and anyone who needs to stay cool, particularly in the hot summer sun. Made from recycled materials, RealXGear Cooling Technology is the result of years of research and is sure to be a winner in Australia– whether it be helping you on the golf course or helping you get some sleep on a hot summer night.

Hats and wrist bands are also available.

Loaded with innovative Nike technology, the Nike Lunar Ascend features Nike’s Hyperfuse construction and Integrated Traction. The Nike Lunar Ascend is engineered with the ingredients of the perfect lightweight and breathable golf shoe that combines stability and the comfort of Lunar cushioning.

An upper construction technique that originated in Nike Basketball, Hyperfuse construction is an innovative multi-layered construction that ensures lightweight support, comfort, breathability and durability. The lower profile of the Nike Lunar Ascend increases stability while utilizing Integrated Traction to eliminate spike pressure and maintain traction. The Integrated Traction outsole allows more flexibility and greater natural motion for the foot.

Colours: White/Black-Action Red-Granite; Black/Black-Grey-Electric Green; Soar/ White-Metallic Cool Grey-Black www.nikegolf.com

FootJoy Autumn Performance Apparel: Led by two all-new contemporary colour collections, the FootJoy Autumn 2012 line includes exciting performance pieces for all style preferences and playing conditions.

The colours of the Barossa Valley are sophisticated, alluring & masculine. The Peninsula range blends exotic coral with navy, white and khaki for the ultimate in clean, classic, autumn tones.

The autumn collection will feature lisle and traditional pique shirts. The new range will also offer Fine Australian Lambswool and Merino Wool Sweaters and Vests.

Contact FootJoy Customer Service on 1800 660 535 or visit www.footjoy.com.au

www.realxgear.com.au

www.jonesandberkley.com

March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au..............................................................................................................................................................................................

newproducts 35

Exotics XCG5 Irons:

Exotics XCG5 Driver:

Building on past successes, Tour Edge engineers improved on the previous design by adding two additional tungsten sole weights, a deeper undercut cavity, and a thinner sole. These new features make the club more versatile while maintaining maximum forgiveness. The club’s four tungsten sole weights help lower the centre of gravity, optimise the trajectory, and enhance the club’s ability to resist twisting on impact.

Everything from the centre of gravity location, offset, face thickness, and top line thickness is adjusted to produce ideal performance results for each iron in the set. In addition, the reduced offset and thinner sole provide greater workability for enhanced shot‐making and lower scores.

The XCG5 driver features Tour Edge’s one‐ of‐a‐kind combo‐brazing process to join the titanium face and body to an ultra‐thin beta titanium crown. The XCG5’s special beta titanium crown material dramatically improves sound while allowing weight to be added to the rear of the sole via the Six‐Point Perimeter Weighting System. This system lowers the centre of gravity and moves it deeper and further back in the sole for longer more forgiving drives.

According to Tour Edge, just one swing will convince you the XCG5 is not your ordinary driver.

Power is also enhanced by generating greater swing speed. The aerodynamic shape and visibly sloped crown and sole reduce drag and improve airflow for enhanced swing speed.

The XCG5 is the only fairway wood on the market to use a titanium cupped face and tungsten sole. Just like in drivers, titanium offers exceptional distance while the tungsten allows for a smaller, more traditional‐sized fairway wood head with a low centre of gravity.

Tour Edge engineers designed the XCG5 to deliver driver‐like distance. Besides the use of titanium, the Boomerang face design offers multiple levels of variable face thickness that maximise the rebound effect from more points on the face. The V‐ shaped boomerangs allow for thinner and thicker areas on the face that produce a hotter launch even on off-centre hits.

Designed to tackle the toughest golf challenges — firm hardpan, deep rough, and tight lies — this club has an easy-to-hit, low centre of gravity head, a high density tungsten-steel sole and body and a maraging steel cupped face.

The heavier tungsten-steel body moves more weight low in the sole. The added weight coupled with the club’s heavily radiused sole minimises turf contact to help your shots easily escape from difficult lies.

The majority of the club’s weight is in the rear heel and toe of the sole via two internal weight pads. These pads improve sound, feel, and the centre of gravity location for a more pure energy transfer at impact.

www.touredge.com

www.touredge.com

www.touredge.com

www.touredge.com

Callaway Forged Wedges: The latest creation from Callaway’s Chief Designer, Roger Cleveland, the Callaway Forged Wedges debut two new finish options—Copper and Trivalent Dark Chrome—and feature the Company’s Tour CC Grooves. Forged from 1020 Carbon Steel for soft feel, Callaway’s new wedge features traditional styling with a higher toe and straighter leading edge for a square look at address. The Trivalent Dark Chrome finish helps reduce glare, while the new Copper finish is designed to oxidize over time for a distinctive look.

The blended C-Grind® sole is a softer, more gradual ‘C’ shape to provide increased versatility for pinpoint shot-making. This modified C-Grind sole enables golfers to lay the face open while effectively reducing the bounce angle, allowing for proper contact and maximum spin and control.

Available Mid March www.callawaygolf.com/au

Nike Xtreme Sport IV Carry Bag: The Nike Xtreme Sport IV Carry Bag incorporates key features and benefits for the golfer who enjoys walking the course. Featuring a new ventilated air mesh back pad and updated Nike revolving double strap system, every player can pick up and play with comfort and ease.

The Nike Xtreme Sport IV Carry also includes new Nike Grind zipper pulls,new custom leg end caps to provide ultimate stability and GPS/ rangefinder loops for functionality. The Nike Xtreme Sport IV Carry Bag allows the golfer to conveniently organise their items in nine functional pockets, six of which are zippered.

Available in four different colour options. www.nikegolf.com

Weekender 3.50 kg Bag: The Weekender provides the travelling golfer a balanced combination of a travel bag that is not too big or too small.

The quality wheels will make for easy rolling with the top handle that will lighten the load when in transit. It has a 9-way top divider system with each full length divider able to accommodate an additional club. The integrated padded hood incorporates four internal storage pockets, which can be locked for total security. The external bottom pocket can hold various golfing essentials which are easily accessed.

The molded oversize bottom gives the bag extra balance and stability. Tough 600 denier polyester fabric is available in Black or Navy.

Contact Under Par: (02) 9417 4055 | info@underpar.com.au www.underpar.com.au

Exotics XCG5 Fairway Woods:

Exotics XCG5 Hybrid:

Odyssey’s ProType putters: Callaway Golf Company will soon unveil its Odyssey® ProType™ Tour Series line of milled, carbon steel putters. Born from unique head shapes crafted for the best players in the world, the ProType line was developed by Odyssey’s ProWorks team after feedback from hundreds of Tour professionals. The result is a collection of models from the #1 Putter in Golf® that enhance both the feel and stroke, with a look that suits the eyes of even the most discerning golfers. Odyssey’s ProType line also offers golfers a unique opportunity to personalize their putters by choosing from six different colours for their grip and putter head paint fill.

Odyssey’s ProType putters will be available in six head shapes. The #2, #3, #6, #7, and #9 models will be available in two weights—340 or 350 grams— while the ProType 2-ball model will come in 350 or 360 grams. The putters are made from 1025 Carbon Steel, producing similar performance characteristics to stainless steel, but with a softer feel. The face of each putter features a deeper, sharper milling pattern to increase interaction between the face and the ball for better feel, truer roll and more consistency.

Available April www.odysseygolf.com/global/en-au.html

Golf Cart Battery Reviver: The BLS Battery Reviver is a new electronic device that brings dead golf cart batteries back to life, restores functioning batteries to new condition, and keeps batteries from losing capacity and life due to the main cause of battery failure: the build up of lead sulphate.

Using breakthrough square wave technology, the Battery Reviver electronic device sends a frequency signal to each crystal of lead sulphate, causing it to dissolve into lead and sulfuric acid. This restores the battery to its original condition and allows the electrical charge to be drawn from the battery.

The BLS Battery Reviver comes in three golf cart models: a 12/24 volt model for single seat golf carts with 36 and 48 volt models available for two seat golf carts. www.batteryreviver.com.au or phone on 1300 852 433

GolfBuddy Voice: World First as GolfBuddy launches a talking GPS Rangefinder.

GolfBuddy Voice heralds an exciting new generation of audio GPS rangefinders.

As small as a golf ball yet light enough to be clipped comfortably on the peak of a hat or visor, GolfBuddy Voice gives spoken distances to the centre, front and middle of the green, simply by pressing a button.

Weighing just 30 grams and measuring only 4.3cm wide, the multi-lingual GolfBuddy Voice uses GolfBuddy’s Auto Course & Hole Recognition technology– which means it always knows exactly what hole you’re playing. It has a 40,000 course memory, is preloaded with thousands of worldwide courses and connects to a PC via a micro USB port for synching when new courses are added to GolfBuddy’s global database.

No subscription fees or course download charges

www.gpsgolfbuddy.com.au

March 2012

36 gear............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

We “Test Drive” Titleist’s new golf balls

by Richard Fellner

A

t the recent PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Florida, Titleist introduced four new golf balls to its line, giving golfers an expanded selection to match a Titleist ball to their game.

While the Pro-V1 has become the de-facto choice for many golfers these days (owing in part to its dominance on the PGA Tour) the new balls from Titleist — NXT Tour, NXT Tour S, Velocity and DT SoLo — offer a range of performance and price options for golfers of every skill level, while maintaining the quality and consistency for which Titleist has been famous.

Prior to last month’s Australian launch of the balls, Inside Golf was given the opportunity to “Test Drive” all four models during a few rounds at our club. Here is a quick run-down of each model, plus some initial impressions from our tests: Titleist’s new Velocity ball on display at the PGA Merchandise show in Orlando, Florida

NXT TOUR:

NXT TOUR S:

According to the Specs: “The NXT Tour has a large dual core, threepiece construction that features a slightly smaller, soft centre and higher volume outer core layer that is engineered for increased power and longer distance than the prior model. The soft, thin Fusablend cover features a new spherically tiled octahedral design, and 302 dimples in five different sizes. The result is a combination of long, consistent distance, commanding short game spin and control, soft feel on all shots with excellent durability.”

According to the Specs: “NXT Tour S features a new, proprietary lowcompression, highly-resilient core, in combination with the same soft, thin Fusablend cover formulation and aerodynamics as the New NXT Tour.

NXT Tour S offers a softer compression feel than its counterpart and, like NXT Tour, offers low driver and long iron spin for outstanding distance, a piercing trajectory and consistent ball flight, and commanding short game spin and control.”

A significant upgrade from the topperforming, non-urethane ball that was first introduced in 2001, the new NXT Tour is for golfers who want more distance, while still retaining control around the greens.

Slightly softer than the NXT Tour, the NXT Tour S is for golfers who want more greenside control – and a softer compression — without sacrificing distance.

According to Inside Golf’s tests: In the past, the NXT balls always felt a bit hard, and were slightly more difficult to get proper spin around the greens. The new model feels a lot softer than the originals, and for golfers who want to hit it long off the tee, this is certainly a great choice. Plus, the low spin on the long clubs is great to help reduce those slices/hooks (i.e. less side-spin). Around the greens, we didn’t get quite as much backspin as a Pro-V1, but the ball still stopped fairly quickly. Putting is the real key here: if you like a slightly “louder” ball – i.e. getting that real “click” sound on impact – then you’ll love this ball.

According to Inside Golf’s tests: This ball felt great everywhere on the course. The distance difference was negligible from the NXT Tour (and vs a Pro V1 for that matter), and there wasn’t much sidespin on the longer clubs. And we really liked the softer feel around the greens. If you like the Pro-V1 series, but can’t always afford the higher cost, then this ball is a serious contender. The elite players out there will probably stick with the Pro-Vs, but for the rest of us in the low-mid handicap range, you really should give this ball a try.

SRP: $44.95/dozen

SRP: $ 44.95/dozen

VELOCITY:

DT SoLo:

According to the Specs: “New Velocity features Titleist’s exclusive high-speed LSX core technology and is encased in a NAZ2 cover formulation that delivers high initial ball speed on all full swing shots and playable feel in the short game. The combination of the fastest solid core of any Titleist golf ball, cover formulation, and 332 icosahedral dimple design aerodynamics, delivers a soaring, tight, consistent ball flight and deep downrange peak trajectory. Velocity is available in single or double-digit orange play numbers.”

According to the Specs: “The new DT SoLo is comprised of an extremely soft and fast core formulation that provides a distinctly soft compression feel. The cover blend of two soft Surlyn ionomers, in combination with the soft, fast core and 392 icosahedral dimple design aerodynamic package, provides a penetrating ball flight with long roll out for excellent total distance.”

The all-new Titleist Velocity golf ball is, in essence, a pure distance ball, albeit with all the proprietary Titleist technology inside.

Available in white and high optic yellow.

The DT has long been known forever for really soft compression, and it has a loyal following of golfers. The new version is the softest DT that Titleist has ever made, though it doesn’t sacrifice control or distance from the previous model.

According to Inside Golf’s tests: If you have the type of swing that nails the ball straight every time – and if you love to ‘Grip it and Rip it’ at every opportunity -- then Velocity is the ball for you. It is also good for the middle-high handicapper who may want to eke out a few extra metres off the tee. In truth, the ball feels like a distance ball – slightly harder, less control. But it is still a Titleist, so you can’t go wrong. And for some reason, the ball feels extra good on those super-long putts. For the average golfer, it’s a solid and affordable option.

According to Inside Golf’s tests: This ball is probably best suited to those who have a slower swing speed, as the soft compression will help generate good distance. The soft cover will also help for control around the greens, as it can help your irons to “grab” the ball in the grooves. If you’ve got a faster swing speed (like we do) then the ball may be difficult to control off the tee, but is actually quite good around the greens. It is also great for golfers that value price above all else.

SRP: $39.95/dozen

SRP: $29.95/dozen

Available in white or optic yellow.

MORE PERFORMANCE. MORE CONFIDENCE. MORE COMMAND OF YOUR GAME.

New NXT Tour and NXT Tour S Engineered for High Performance You are driven to be the best player you can be, and the new NXT® Tour and NXT Tour S golf balls will help you reach your potential. The new NXT Tour delivers even longer distance, with commanding short game scoring performance and soft feel. For golfers looking for NXT Tour performance with an even softer compression feel, Titleist introduces the new NXT Tour S in both white and high optic yellow. Learn more at titleist.com.au

Join Team Titleist Australia - New Zealand at titleist.com.au/teamtitleist ©2012 Acushnet Company. Customer Service: 1800 660 535

March 2012

38 technology:Clubfitting...............................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Inside the new TaylorMade Performance Lab RichardFellner We’ve written at length about the benefits of clubfitting and video/computer technology in relation to choosing the right equipment for your game. In a nutshell, if you’re going to get a new set of sticks – regardless of your skill or ability — it is an absolute MUST that you fit your clubs to your game. No question.

Clubfitting has come a long way over the last few years, with launch monitors, video technology and clubfitting experts guiding you along the way. But recently, TaylorMade launched a new technology that may represent the future of consumer clubfitting.

Last month, I ventured to the brand-new TaylorMade Performance Lab (TMPL), recently opened at the wonderful Melbourne Golf Academy, to test out this new technology.

As you enter through the futuristic, JamesBond-like vault/door, you’re greeted by an array of high-tech computers, monitors and 3D cameras, all surrounding a synthetic mat and practice net.

And while at first glance it may seem similar to other clubfitting setups, the technology behind this system is a real game-changer.

The first difference you’ll note is the absence of standard launch monitors (the radar-driven technology that many of today’s clubfitters use to measure ball speed, spin, angles, etc).

Instead, TPML cranks it up a notch, and uses a system called MAT-T (Motion Analysis Technology

by TaylorMade). This 3D motion capture technology is similar to what videogame makers use when capturing Tiger Woods’ swing, or when filmmakers

PGA Pro Marcus Fraser tries out the new TaylorMade Performance Lab at Melbourne Golf Academy create Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) for movies like Star Wars or The Lord of the Rings.

Since 2003, it has been used on TOUR to tailor clubs for PGA professionals like Sergio Garcia, Dustin Johnson, Retief Goosen and others.

Australian professionals Marcus Fraser and Brett Ogle have recently tried the system at MGA, and they were extremely impressed with the technology.

And now, it’s available for the everyday golfer.

In essence, you are fitted with a special ‘suit’ that has a bunch of little dots (“Reflective markers”) at strategic points of your body (Knees, shoulders, head, etc) as well as on the club itself. As you take a swing, a collection of high-speed cameras capture the movement of these dots, then relay it to a highlysophisticated computer. The computer instantly

crunches all the numbers (and there are a LOT of numbers here) and shows a true Real-time, 3D computer-generated representation of your swing from multiple angles – including your full swing plane, speed, angle of attack, impact, etc.

While this may sound a bit over technical to the casual golfer, it is pure gold to a professional clubfitter or coach, and represents a new way of examining a golf swing.

Whereas traditional launch monitors measure everything that happens AFTER impact with the ball —and then work backwards to extrapolate what might have occurred in your swing before impact — the 3D motion capture of TaylorMade’s system sees exactly what is happing in your swing BEFORE and DURING impact, which TaylorMade believe is

a more accurate representation of a golfer’s swing.

Armed with this knowledge, the clubfitter or pro can make a more informed decision and recommendations for every club in your bag – from Driver down to putter.

The putting system is also extremely innovative.

Using different putters (i.e. mallet, traditional, facebalanced, etc) you can see exactly which type of putter is best for your type of putting style – whether your stroke is square-to-square, open-squareclosed, etc). It also shows exact impact points on the putterface, and can actually predict which type of putter is best for your game.

In my case, the system was spot on: When I tried the putter it recommended for my stroke, I sank 4 out of 5 putts (the fifth was dead-centre, but short). A much better result than the 1/5 with a different putter.

Yes, the system is that good.

If you’re in the Melbourne area, and you’re looking for a set of clubs, then you owe it to yourself to book a session at the TPML. It will open your eyes to a new world of clubfitting.

For more info, phone: 1800 700 011, or visit the website: www.taylormadeperformancelab.com.au

WIN! Inside Golf and TaylorMade are offering 3 lucky Melbourne Area readers a free testing and complete evaluation of their swing at the new TaylorMade Performance Lab (a $150 value). Simply enter via our website, or on our Facebook Page, and you’ll be entered into the draw.

Australian Golf Tours & Event Specialists

2012 Super Golf Specials Free two nights accommodation at the 5-star Chatrium Riverside Hotel Bangkok

Pattaya $1,120pp Hua Hin $1,285pp

Phuket $1,150pp

• 6 Nights 4.5 star Woodlands Villas (Twin double share) & Daily Buffet breakfast

• 6 Nights 5 star Wora Bura Resort (Twin double share) & Daily Buffet breakfast

• 5 rounds of golf with cart and caddie (Laem Chabang, Siam Plantation, Siam Old Course, Burapha and St Andrews)

• 4 rounds of golf with cart and caddie (Black Mountain, Banyan GC, Springfield GC and Sea Pine)

• 4 rounds of golf with caddie’s and carts where allowed (Red Mountain Blue Canyon, Loch Palm and Laguna CC)

• All Private transfers – airport – accommodation – golf courses – Bangkok

• All Private transfers – airport – accommodation – golf courses – airport

• All Private transfers – airport – accommodation – golf courses – Bangkok

• 6 Nights 4 star Marriott Hotel (Twin double share) & Daily Buffet breakfast

Phone +61 3 9809 1022 | info@gimmegolf.com.au

www.gimmegolf.com.au

Flights can also be organised as Gimme golf is a Travel Agent Licence no: 32849 All Packages are based on minimum 4 pax, but can be organised for 2 or higher. Golf packages prices above based on low season 01/05/2012 – 30/10/2012 *All golf tours completed before 30/09/12 will receive an added bonus of Two Nights at the five star Chatrium Hotel central Bangkok

Business Links - Your guide to

in Victoria Corporate Golf events are still one of the best ways to reward loyal clients, engage with potential clients, or simply have a fun day out with employees and colleagues. As golf is one of Australia’s highest participant sports, it’s a good bet that the majority of your business contacts will include some golf lovers. And spending 4-5 uninterrupted hours on the course with a client can translate to a better business relationship in the future.

Choosing the right venue / course is paramount to success. By carefully matching the course to the skill level and preferences of your players – and taking care of all the little details and finer points along the way – you can ensure a successful event for everyone.

While most courses in Victoria have some sort of package or offering for corporate events, here are a few featured venues in various regions across the state.

Eagle Ridge Golf Course

The stunning Clubhouse, facilities and championship golf course at Eagle Ridge make it the quintessential Corporate Golf venue. The entire facility was designed with corporate golf events in mind, and they have the ability to host corporate golf events for groups of all sizes (from 8 to a full field of 100).

Their 50-strong cart fleet, combined with the brand-new, high quality practice area make it ideal for events both large and small.

They have designed packages from a relaxed-style outdoor barbeque inclusion, to a three-course luncheon in their beautiful ballroom.

Eagle Ridge’s clients come back year after year, often with the encouragement of clients and staff who love their golf events at Eagle Ridge. Each year, Eagle Ridge holds

the ‘Corporate Cup’, which includes old and new clients and their guests to compete with a fantastic lunch and presentations afterward.

A key aspect of their corporate golf events are their themed holes. Of particular interest recently has been the ‘Skippysteak & Burgundy’ stop between Holes 13 and 14, where each team is treated to a hunk of steak and glass of wine, served by a waiter, on the landing of the Pumphouse overlooking one of their lakes.

“I have been to and organised many a corporate golf day, but I have never seen such great themed holes as the ones on offer at Eagle Ridge! They are a real standout and add that little extra to each event,” says Lyn Deutrom, Corporate Sales Executive at Eagle Ridge.

Eagle Ridge - 18th hole According to Wayne Lucas, General Manager, booking an event at Eagle Ridge eliminates the hassles that many event organisers often encounter with a corporate day.

“We are the best at what we do. Our clients tell us consistently that we take the stress out of their day by organise everything for them, allowing them to simply enjoy their day with clients and staff on the course.”

FACT FILE Eagle Ridge Golf Course Browns Road, The Cups, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, 3939 (03) 5988 6341 (03) 5988 6033 golf@eagleridge.com.au www.eagleridge.com.au

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Hole 6 at Portsea Golf Club

Portsea Golf Club

With superb, fast-draining couch fairways and fast and true bent-grass greens, Portsea is a fantastic golf course for corporate or social events.

Ranked No. 32 in Australia, the compact and hilly course is noted for tricky, short par-4’s and superb par-3’s. It is also well protected from the weather, thus it retains its playability in the wet and hosts a surprisingly large number of events during winter.

Whilst a private members course, Portsea warmly welcomes visiting golfers to its classic layout. In particular they welcome corporate groups and social groups of golfers who respect and care for their highly-rated course.

Many of their regular groups return year after year, booking well in advance.

The fully-stocked pro shop has all the top brands and equipment, while the bar and restaurant serve high quality local foods and beverages at value prices.

Moonah Links Open Course - 4th hole at sunset The course can cater for specific requirements and assist with competition management, prizes and many other necessities for a successful corporate golf day.

Corporate golf events are played on Mondays and Fridays, with either morning or afternoon play available to suit your needs. Numbers under 60 will be allocated a 2 tee start; all numbers over 60 will be a shotgun start with play from holes allocated by the club.

FACT FILE Portsea Golf Club Relph Avenue, Portsea, Victoria Australia 3944 (03) 5984 3521 www.portseagolf.com.au Contact: Lisbeth Harbinson emanager@portseagolf.com.au (03) 5984 3521

Moonah Links

One of the premier Golf Resorts in Victoria, Moonah Links Resort offers two world-class championship golf courses, each boasting superior course conditions which assure yearround playability.

Since opening in 2003 Moonah Links Resort has achieved global recognition and acclaim having hosted five major tournaments: the 2003 and 2005 Australian Open Golf Championships and the 2008, 2009 and 2010 Moonah Classic. The Open and Legends courses have been voted the No. 1 and No. 2 Best Conditioned Golf Courses in Australia (2008-2011), respectively.

Complementing the course facilities are a driving range and practice facilities designed to Australian Institute of Sport specifications and one of the foremost elite training facilities in world golf – The Moonah Links Golf Academy – home to Golf Australia and the Australian Institute of

Sport elite player development programs.

Just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne CBD, Moonah Links Resort is easy to access for your guests, and provides all the facilities to ensure a successful event. With the largest fleet of motorized golf carts in Victoria, a comprehensive pro shop, On-course food & beverage cart, 89 luxuriously appointed guest rooms, restaurant, spike bar, extensive banquet and conference facilities, day spa and ancillary recreational facilities such as a swimming pool and tennis courts, Moonah Links Resort constitutes one of the finest, most comprehensive Golf Resorts in the country.

FACT FILE 55 Peter Thomson Drive Fingal, Victoria 3939 Hotel enquiries (03) 5988 2000 Golf enquiries (03) 5988 2047 www.peppers.com.au/moonah

Green Acres Golf Club in Kew is one of the premier Golf Clubs in Melbourne.

With a state-of-the-art Clubhouse due for completion in the coming months that complements a stunning tree-lined course set in a tranquil position just moments from the CBD, Green Acres is the obvious choice for your next corporate function.

Green Acres Golf Club, 51 Elm Grove KEW EAST VIC 3102 Ph. 03 9859 1294 • Email info@greenacresgolf.com.au • www.greenacresgolf.com.au

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21 WINS AND TOP-10 FINISHES ON THE PGA TOUR IN 2010

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RACV Cape Schanck

RACV Cape Schanck Resort

Located on the southern-most tip of the stunning Mornington Peninsula, RACV Cape Schanck Resort is just a leisurely 75-minute drive from the Melbourne CBD. The Resort’s magnificent 18-hole, par 70 championship golf course is consistently rated among Australia’s best 100 courses, and offers incredible golfing value. Designed by renowned course architect, Robert TrentJones Jnr, the course has huge greens with large open bunkers, tree-lined fairways and spectacular ocean views on eleven holes. The

superbly maintained course is fantastic for both experienced and new golfers.

RACV Cape Schanck Resort is a very popular venue to hold Corporate Golf Days, as it is playable for golfers of all levels. The course is equipped with a full range of practice facilities, ideal for a pre-game golf clinic, or for warming up your back swing.

There are 60 golf carts available with the ability to carry up to 120 players around the fully signposted course. You’ll find friendly golf shop staff on hand and ready to escort players to the tee for a shotgun start, and

process competitions ready for presentation.

You’ll also find the golf shop extremely well stocked with all your golfing needs and prizes for purchase.

RACV Cape Schanck Resort’s Presentation Rooms provide the ideal setting for hosting presentation luncheons and dinners while enjoying restaurant quality dining. With each room hosting a full range of audio/visual facilities, whether you’re entertaining a small group, or hold a large corporate function, they can tailor a combination to meet your requirements.

And should you wish to spread your event over two or more days there are fifty ocean rooms and twelve 2 and 3 bedroom villas to house both you and your guests in style and comfort.

FACT FILE RACV Cape Schanck Resort Trent Jones Drive (via Boneo Road) Cape Schanck, Victoria, 3939 www.racv.com.au/resorts (03) 5950 8000 capeschanck@racv.com.au

Book your next Golf Event at Moonah Links…

…and Moonah Links will sponsor your Nearest the Pin and Longest Drive competitions with two prizes valued at over $1,300.00

Book and Confirm your 2012 Golf Day at Moonah Links and you will receive Two ‘Stay & Play’ Packages for two at Peppers Moonah Links Resort Stay & Play Packages include:

One Nights Accommodation for two (twin or double occupancy) Complimentary Upgrade (subject to availability) Full Breakfast for Two in Pebbles Restaurant A round of golf for two on either the Open or Legends Course inclusive of a shared motorised cart Retail Value of over $650.00 each Low Season (May – August) from $85.00 per person*

High Season (September – December) $95.00 per person*

*Rates are inclusive of Green Fees on either the Open or Legends Course and use of a shared motorised cart

For further details please contact Kai Leong in Golf Events: Ph: 03 5988 2080 Email: kleong@moonahlinks.com.au Booking Conditions: Offer Valid for golf events played between 01 April 2012 and 24 December 2012; Based on groups with a minimum of 72 players; Stay & Play Vouchers will be issued on the day of the event; Complimentary Upgrade subject to availability at time of booking; Conditions apply. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer INSIDE GOLF” to avail this offer.

March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au..............................................................................................................................

12th tee at Huntingdale Golf Club

The practice green at Melbourne Golf Academy

Melbourne Golf Academy

For those looking for a Corporate Golf day that is a bit different, then consider an outing at Melbourne Golf Academy.

The recent host of the Victorian Putting Championships, MGA is one of Melbourne’s premium public practice facilities and a great location to host Corporate Events, meetings, parties and more.

Overlooking the massive 18th hole putting green, the MGA function room caters for groups of 10 -150 guests in stylish and modern surroundings. Their purpose-built private meeting room, professional service and a wide variety of catering options makes the facility a great choice for hosted golf activities, staff meetings and product launches.

Their great staff and fun golf options can result in a spectacular golf day, with a difference.

The 350m practice fairway is long enough for the biggest of hitters to show off their skills, while the 10 target greens give players a chance to fine tune their long and short irons (or say, have mini competitions like nearest to the pin, etc). The undercover, private

corporate golf in Victoria 43

bays have soft-feel practice mats, club racks, drink holders and, best of all, brand-new, shiny range balls recently put into play. Plus, the range is floodlit at night, allowing you to host your event into the later hours.

MGA also features an impressive short game area, where your event guests can go head-to-head in putting, chipping, pitching and bunker shot competitions.

If you’d like to give your guests some instruction, then the instructors at MGA are top-notch. MGA’s Vaughan Somers, for example, is rated one of the top 50 coaches in Australia. His mastery of identifying a golfer’s “swing personality” has proved to be exactly what some golfers need to turn their game around.

FACT FILE Melbourne Golf Academy 385 Centre Dandenong Road, Heatherton, Vic (03) 9558 3477 www.mgagolf.com.au Contact: Catherine Grogan 0417 694 797 cgrogan@mgagolf.com.au

Corporate golf is all about leaving a lasting impression on clients and staff.

Huntingdale Golf Club

As a premium private Golf Club that is consistently rated as one of Australia’s best golf courses (and was host to the ‘The Australian Masters’ from 1979-2008), a corporate golf day at Huntingdale offers an exclusive, unique experience that is simply not available to the public golfer.

Huntingdale has a dedicated Corporate Golf Manager that will assist you with the planning and coordinating of every aspect of your golf day to ensure the day is a success. The Club offers a number of packages, ensuring that you stay within your budget and with Huntingdale’s award winning Executive Chef George Skaliotis on board, your guests are guaranteed to be in for a culinary delight.

Huntingdale also offer superb facilities for your pre and post golf functions. Each of Huntingdale’s function rooms boast picturesque views of the course and surrounding gardens and are suitable to entertain groups up to 200 guests. From a relaxed

barbecue on the outdoor terrace overlooking the world famous 18th hole, to a formal buffet in the Members Dining Room...the options are endless.

Huntingdale is currently offering a complimentary ‘Premium Wine & Gourmet Cheese Hole’ for any corporate golf day booked before March 31 (min 72 players).

“Huntingdale is the ideal place for a Corporate Golf Day. From the moment you arrive, to the moment you leave, nothing is too much trouble!

The course is always presented in immaculate condition and the food is amongst the best around.

We have held many golf days at Huntingdale and would strongly recommend the club as an ideal Corporate Golf venue.”- Gary Lisbon–GOLFSelect.

FACT FILE Huntingdale Golf Club Windsor Avenue South Oakleigh, Vic 3167 www.huntingdalegolf.com.au Contact: Michael Burgess (03) 9579 4622 golf@huntingdalegolf.com.au

Just 20 minutes from the CBD, Sanctuary Lakes boasts a Greg Norman designed Championship Golf Course ranked number 52 in Australia • Beautiful clubhouse overlooking the 18th green and lake.

• Home of the Victorian PGA Championship for 5 years.

• Comprehensive event management; promotional materials and merchandise, player registration, signage placement, draw arrangement, pre-golf briefing, printed scorecards, on course set up (NTP and LD) and score collation.

• Competition ideas and novelties to make your corporate day stand out.

• The House of Golf, Sanctuary Lakes – looking after all your golfing needs.

For more information or to arrange a site tour, please feel free to contact our corporate golf co-ordinator at 03 9395 2888 or events@sanctuarylakes.com.au

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(Clockwise from left) Sanctuary Lakes Club hole 16, the cart fleet and 18th hole & clubhouse (Images courtesy of Links Living)

Sanctuary Lakes Club

Sanctuary Lakes Club is a high-quality Greg Norman-designed Championship golf course rated number 52 in Australia. It was also the home of the Victorian PGA Championship for five years, so it is in good company among corporate golf venues.

Located just 20 minutes from the Melbourne CBD, Sanctuary Lakes Club boasts a beautiful clubhouse overlooking the 18th green with views of the City and Port Phillip Bay. With a fleet of 24 motorized carts (and access to more), as well as a dedicated team of professionals, it is an ideal location for a corporate golf day event.

The Club’s experienced and professional

corporate golf team will ensure all of your options are explored and delivered, and the Club is more than happy to tailor packages to your needs. Nothing is ever too difficult for their team: They strive to impress and this is shown with their high level of service and event management skills.

Corporate golf is all about leaving a lasting impression on clients and staff in order to achieve your objectives for hosting your event.

Sanctuary Lakes can provide many extra features to enhance the events’ style: Golf Professionals: Having a golf professional assisting you throughout the round can be very beneficial. Not only can you include his or her

shot as part of your team, it is great to watch how professionals conduct themselves on the course and be in awe of some of their shots (which to them are simply second nature).

Contributing to the team via a nearest the pin or longest drive or playing an entire hole with a group is a terrific experience and addon for the event.

Promotional giveaway: House of Golf, Sanctuary Lakes provides a wide variety of merchandise for prizes and promotional materials. They can guide you in getting the best value on your branded or promotional gear to suit your needs.

Competitions: On- and off-course competition

ideas and novelties make your corporate day stand out. The club has experienced and created many additional competitions to value add the day for fundraising or simply extra chances for players to win a prize.

FACT FILE Sanctuary Lakes Resort Greg Norman Drive Sanctuary Lakes, VIC 3030 www.sanctuarylakes.com.au Clubhouse (03) 9395 2888 club@sanctuarylakes.com.au Contact: Corporate Golf Co-ordinator (03) 9395 2888

HERITAGE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Take advantage of our corporate golf packages from $150 per person. This includes 18 holes of golf, cart hire and gourmet bbq.

f fer O d e t i m i L Book an event for April / May / June for 20 people or more and we will include a “Stay and Play” package at the Sebel Heritage Yarra Valley valued at $449

Premiere Corporate venue in the Yarra Valley • 2 immaculately presented championship courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tony Cashmore • 48 electric carts • Full time event coordinators to ensure your day runs smoothly • 3 function rooms catering for groups from 20 to 200 • Comprehensive food and beverage options to suit all budgets and tastes.

• Onsite luxury accommodation at The Sebel Heritage Yarra Valley

Phone: 03 9760 3300 | Email: bmcmartin@hgcc.com.au / snolan@hgcc.com.au | www.hgcc.com.au

March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au..............................................................................................................................

corporate golf in Victoria 45

The 18th hole and clubhouse at The Sands Torquay

The Sands Torquay

The Sands Torquay is one of the region’s premier private courses, a links style course that winds its way through the dunes on the northern headland of Torquay.

Offering spectacular views of Torquay’s world renowned beaches, The Sands is the first Stuart Appleby-designed course with 5 tee positions to suit all levels of golfers.

If you’re looking to leave a lasting impression at your next corporate golf day, Peppers The Sands Resort, Torquay offers a number of corporate golf packages to suit all sized golf events. You can also get their experienced

team to tailor a package built around your own personal needs.

Featuring a private function space for “sit down” events, catering for player numbers of 16–130, function space to cater for groups of up to 380 guests and a world-class course, the venue is sure to be a hit with your players and guests.

The Sands Torquay is currently offering a special Corporate Golf Package if you book your Corporate Golf Day prior to April 30th: you’ll receive complimentary tea, coffee and muffins on arrival, complimentary range balls prior to tee off, and one Cleveland Stand Bag for use as a prize.

(Note that the Corporate golf event must be held prior to 30th December 2012, you must book for 16 or more players, and the offer is subject to availability.)

There is also world-class accommodation on site. Pepp ers The Sands Res or t balances first class golf with first class leisure facilities, offering 112 beautifully appointed accommodation rooms with breathtaking views over the course, tennis courts, heated indoor lap pool, health club and gymnasium.

The resort’s signature restaurant, Hanners Restaurant and Bar is positioned directly overlooking the course and is one of the

region’s most desired dining destinations.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a week, Peppers The Sands Resort makes for the ideal location for any occasion.

FACT FILE Peppers The Sands Resort 2 Sands Boulevade, Torquay VIC 3228 (03) 5264 3333 sands@peppers.com.au Corporate Golf Contact: Mark Day 03 5264 3301 mark.day@peppers.com.au www.thesandstorquay.com

Looking to impress at your next corporate day?

Peppers The Sands Resort, Torquay offers a number of corporate golf packages to suite all sized golf events, or why not get our experienced team to tailor a package built around your needs.

Private function space when booking a sit down event

Book your Corporate Golf Day* prior to 30 April 2012 and receive :

• Catering for player numbers of 16 – 130

• Complimentary Tea, Coffee and Muffins on arrival

• Function space to cater for groups of up to 600 guests

• Complimentary range balls prior to tee off

• Experienced team to assist in the preparation and hosting of events

• 1 Cleveland Stand Bag for use as prizes *Corporate golf event needs to be held prior to 30th December 2012 *Minimum numbers of 16 or more players *Offer subject to availability

Peppers The Sands Resort P. 03 5264 3301 E. mark.day@peppers.com.au www.thesandstorquay.com

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Heritage Golf and Country Club

Heritage Golf and Country Club

Located in Victoria’s Yarra Valley, about a 45-minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD, The Heritage Golf and Country Club provides the perfect backdrop for your next corporate golf day.

Framed by the spectacular mountains of Australia’s Great Dividing Range, the Yarra Valley is a special part of Victoria. Home to one of Australia’s most successful wine producing regions, the valley itself boasts incomparable rural scenery.

The facility comprises two championshipstandard golf courses. The St John course is a

traditional treed environment based on the American parkland-style courses. It is the only private course in Australia designed by Jack Nicklaus. The Henley course is a traditional links course designed by Tony Cashmore in consultation with Nicklaus Design. Tony Cashmore is well-known as the designer of The Dunes course at Rye, Kingston Links and the Beach and Creek courses at 13th Beach at Barwon Heads.

The Clubhouse, Pro-shop, Heritage Retreat & Day Spa, Bars and Restaurants all complement the vision of Jack Nicklaus and Tony Cashmore. Adjacent to the

Clubhouse is The Sebel Heritage Yarra Valley, a superbly appointed boutique 4.5 star hotel offering 102 deluxe rooms and suites, including a state-of-the-art convention centre and full conference facilities for up to 400 delegates.

On-course activities for your corporate golf day can include Pre golf Clinic, Roving Golf Professional, Neck, Back & Shoulder Massage and Novelty Hole Competitions, while you can also get great On-Course Catering Stations including burgers, local wine tasting, pancakes, lattes and more.

Corporate Gifts & Merchandise can be organized with either your logo or the Heritage logo, including polo shirts, caps, golf balls, towels and a variety of other golf items. The team can even coordinate Photography, signage, Celebrity MC’s, Competition Prizes, Video / DVDs and other services.

FACT FILE The Heritage Golf and Country Club Heritage Avenue, Chirnside Park, Vic 3116 www.hgcc.com.au Contact: Brett McMartin (03) 9760 3334 and Sally Nolan (03) 9760 3356

Great functions at the

Melbourne Golf Academy

cluBarham Golf & Sports

www.mgagolf.com.au

Corporate Golf on The Murray River

• Corporate Golf, Functions and Conferences.

• Par 73, 18 holes with magnificent greens and challenging bunkers.

• Full catering and accommodation available.

• New holes on course designed by Ross Watson.

1800 828 193

www.cluBarham.com.au

Overlooking the 18th hole putting green. The MGA function room caters for groups of 10-150 guests. Offering stylish and modern surroundings.

Great staff and fun golf options - the choice is easy.

Melbourne Golf Academy 385 Centre Dandenong Road, Heatherton Functions & Events Manager - Catherine Grogan 0417 694 797 or cgrogan@mgagolf.com.au

March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au..............................................................................................................................

corporate golf in Victoria 47

Green Acres Golf Club

Nestled on the banks of the Yarra River, Green Acres Golf Club in Kew offers a world of seclusion just 15 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the Melbourne CBD. This “Hidden Gem” of Melbourne’s Yarra Courses is a peaceful and relaxing option for a corporate golf event, giving golfers a feeling of tranquillity and seclusion. A private course with a long history, Green Acres is presented in immaculate condition all year round with couch fairways and bent grass greens.

With a brand-new, state-of-the-art clubhouse due for completion in the coming months, it will prove to be an ideal venue for Corporate events and functions, and should reinforce Green Acres’ position as a premier corporate golfing facility in the Melbourne area.

A dedicated Functions Co-ordinator will be available to facilitate your whole day, from event and competition co-ordination, to golf and catering packages, to event management templates, team sheets & results, golf trophies and prizes. Their inhouse Chefs with an extensive menu selection and full bar facilities also means that there is a variety of catering options to suit your needs.

On course competitions such as Nearest the Pin, Longest Drive, Straightest Drive and Beat the Pro can all be arranged. Ambrose or individual stableford competitions can be run from a two-tee or siren start and are recommended for corporate days in order to maximise the enjoyment of your guests.

They can also supply clinics and on-course teaching by qualified PGA teaching professionals, as well as organise professional photography, entertainment bookings, on-course corporate signage and more.

Green Acres Golf Club is available for corporate golf days subject to application and availability on Mondays, Thursdays (pm only) and Fridays.

Green Acres Golf Club

FACT FILE Green Acres Golf Club 51 Elm Grove, Kew East, Vic 3102 (03) 9859 1294 info@greenacresgolf.com.au www.greenacresgolf.com.au

cluBarham Golf & Sports

While not technically a Victorian facility, cluBarham Golf & Sports is developing as one of the major golfing destinations for Victorian corporate getaways/retreats along the Murray River.

The 18-hole championship course features magnificent greens and challenging bunkers throughout. With four new holes and greens, all designed by Ross Watson, this course now rivals most other Murray River courses and should be added to your list of “must play” courses.

The front nine is gently undulating and played throughout tall timbers and creek crossings. The

Huntingdale Golf Club Corporate Golf

cluBarham Golf & Sports 1st, 2nd & 3rd are now played alongside the Eagle Creek. The 5th hole, “Gallipoli”, is still the trademark of Barham with a massive bunker located at the foot of the green. The 9th, which is set to rival “Gallipoli” is played from an elevated tee shot over the creek and onto the green surrounded by bunkers, a challenging new hole that will test any golfer’s prowess.

Two styles of accommodation are available: the Barham Golf Resort located on course, or the cluBarham Motel, situated directly opposite the Barham Services Club. Both businesses are incorporated under the cluBarham banner.

The Barham Golf Resort offers 19 self-contained units, four luxury spa units, eight caravan ensuite sites and 6 RV sites. The Resort includes solar heated swimming pools with both an outdoor and fully enclosed screened indoor barbecue area, ideal for a gathering during long hot lazy summer evenings.

The cluBarham Motel is just a short drive from the golf course. This recently refurbished two

“Huntingdale is the ideal place for a Corporate Golf Day. From the moment you arrive, to the moment you leave, nothing is too much trouble...” - GOLFSelect Visit our website at www.huntingdalegolf.com.au for more information or contact Michael Burgess on (03) 9579 4622 or email golf@huntingdalegolf.com.au

FACT FILE cluBarham Golf & Sports Moulamein Road Barham NSW 2732 barham.services.club@clubarham.com.au www.clubarham.com.au Contact: (03) 5453 2772 Proshop: (03) 5453 2971

! t h g u o h t e v ’ d l u o w who

Portsea Our 2012 corporate golf calendar is now open for bookings. This is your opportunity to enjoy an exclusive experience for your corporate day at the world renowned Huntingdale Golf Club.

storey motel features luxury accommodation, spa rooms, solar heated swimming pool, spa and outdoor barbecue area. Continental or cooked breakfasts are available and can be delivered directly to your room.

The Golf Club hosts a Sports Café and the Barham Chinese Gardens where head chef Tony He has quickly developed a reputation for authentic, delicious, MSG free, Chinese cuisine.

Private functions and corporate golf days can also be catered for in the spacious auditorium with picturesque views overlooking the golf course.

Corporate

Golf Day $60 Contact Details: Lisbeth Harbinson Functions & Events – Portsea Golf Club Ph: (03) 5984 3521 Fax: (03) 5984 3422 eventmanager@portseagolf.com.au www.portseagolf.com.au

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10 things to remember when planning your corporate golf event MatthewPitt

Bushranger Golf & Social Golf Australia The planning you put into your corporate golf event can make all the difference to how much fun your golfers have. It is important to look at all the elements you can control and plan accordingly to give your trip the best chance of success. The important factors to consider are who, where, what, when, how and why and then go from there.

1. Your Golfers–this may seem obvious, but it is critical to consider what type of golfers you are catering for, what they want from the day and then make your plans accordingly. Every golfer has their own idea of what is fun. Golf purists will want to walk on classical links courses, while others may prefer 18 holes on a deluxe resort course in a cart with plenty of refreshments handy.

2. The Venue–Pick the right venue to suit your golfers’ needs. Consider the location, quality and style of the golf courses, location of accommodation, the size of the cart fleet, the quality of service and what other dining and entertainment options are near the courses.

How far your golfers have to travel to reach the venue and at what cost can be a key element in the value proposition.

3. The Timing–You need to avoid Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Easter can be tricky and some public and school holiday times can be an issue. There are also local weather patterns.

Do a little research on the local weather before your plan the dates for your trip.

Proper planning prior to your event can have a major impact on the success of your day 4. The Budget–how much time and money do schedules and course works to check if this will impact on your trip. you, or your golfers have to spend? Consider 7. The Competition–Are you even having one? also what you include in the ticket price - golf, carts, accommodation, travel, catering, prizes, Some events are simply for the love of golf and gifts, drinks, transfers, etc. The inclusions you there is no competition. Some colleagues enjoy opt for have a big impact on the total ticket price a lot of side-betting on every round and some and the perceived value. groups have an organised competition for the 5. The Accommodation–If you are planning an event. Consider your golfers when planning event interstate, or one that requires an overnight a competition–what do they want, what can stay, then remember that most golfers prefer to be they do, do they have handicaps and what will on the course, or very close by. The other factors deliver the most fun for the most people? Your to consider are quality, price, availability, layout options include singles, pairs, teams of four, and proximity to other facilities and services. stroke, par, stableford, ambrose or a mixture of 6. Course Condition–Nothing is more different formats.

8. Prizes & Trophies–If you do have an event, you disappointing than being excited about playing may require prizes and trophies. Don’t forget to a course and arriving to find the greens have include these in your budget. You will also need just been cored and sanded. In your planning, inquire with courses about their maintenance a name for your event–preferably with some

WELCOME TO OUR OFFICE Whether it is a small affair for a select group of clients to a full field event, a friendly golf competition is the ideal way to enhance relationships across your organisation and business networks.

We have a range of packages to suit your event size and budget as well as additional options to tailor your golf day. From themed holes, competitions and other team building activities to top-notch catering and some of the best golf in the state, we look forward to helping you put together an event like no other!

“A 5 STAR EXPERIENCE…” Zurich Financial Services Australia Limited

Eagle Ridge Golf Course Mornington Peninsula, Victoria www.eagleridge.com.au/corporate-golf corporategolf@eagleridge.com.au (03) 5988 2508 eagleridgegolf A 2011 ‘Top 100’ public course.

relevant history among your golfers and a good back-story. Perhaps the most important thing is a great Perpetual Trophy–this can add an extra dimension of excitement and prestige to your event if there is a glittering prize of intrinsic value.

The event becomes a quest and this adds anticipation, excitement and glory to any golfing adventure.

9. The Numbers–How many people are going on your trip? Whether it is 8 or 28 or more has a major bearing on all the other plans. What accommodation is available for a group of your size? How long will your field take to play? Do you use one-tee, two-tee or shotgun starts? How many are you catering for? What are the group discount rates at the golf courses?

The more players there are, the more complex a competition will be to run.

When planning your event, start with how many golfers you plan to take.

10. The Deposit–This cuts both ways: most courses will want a deposit to sure up your commitment and you should thus require a deposit or some sort of solid commitment from your golfers.

Some golfers say ‘yes’ to everything but they are not committed until they have to reach for their purse. Every event we have ever run, someone has pulled out. To help with your planning, ask your golfers for a deposit. This will weed out who is half-baked and help you finance the deposit your venues will require.

Bushranger Golf and Social Golf Australia run events around Australia. For more info, visit www.bushrangergolf.com.au or www.socialgolfaustralia.com.au.

March 2012

50 coverstory..........................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au get past that in the next seven or eight events.

Once I reached that mark, they allowed me to keep my status for the rest of the year. The way the year turned out I had a bit of a flat spot in the middle and I needed to play well at the end, which I did. It was a strange year in the fact that I had two marks to get past and I managed to do both.

In the

Nick of time

DavidNewbery TO beat Tiger Woods once may be considered fortunate. To beat Tiger Woods twice may be considered lucky.

In Nick O’Hern’s case, fortune and luck had nothing to do with it – brilliant shot-making had everything to do with it.

In 2007, the gritty Australian left-hander ended the World No.1’s winning streak in the Accenture Match Play Championship – just as he did two years earlier.

Apart from O’Hern’s excellent golfing ability, there is his background.

Born and raised in Perth and now a resident of Orlando (Florida), O’Hern represented Western Australia in baseball as a prelude to golf.

His amateur golf career never reached any great heights and when he did turn professional, he seriously doubted his ability to make it in the play-for-pay ranks.

He played the pro-am circuit and often struggled to break 80.

Most pros would have given up and taken a club job, but not O’Hern.

He is made of sterner stuff and, besides, he had some very good people in his corner.

He persevered, made it to the European Tour and then he qualified for the lucrative US PGA Tour and climbed into the top-20 in the world rankings.

In 2010, O’Hern had to undergo knee surgery and last year he had to dig deep to retain his playing status on the PGA Tour.

Needing to win more than $400,000 in his last eight tournaments, he achieved the feat by sticking to his golfing motto: “stay in the present and commit to the process”.

O’Hern eventually banked close to $1m and finished 96th on the money list.

He is married, and he and wife Alana have two young daughters.

O’Hern, who turned 40 last year, agreed to an interview and talked about a number of subjects beginning with the 2011 challenge.

You had a medical exemption at the start of 2011. What did that entail?

They (PGA Tour) gave me 16 events to earn $400,000. After I missed the first three cuts it was looking a bit ordinary, but I managed to

What’s it like to be known as the man to stare down Tiger (twice) and beat him in matchplay?

[Laughter]. I got called Tiger Slayer over here (US), but I can think of plenty of worse things to be called. A lot of people over here don’t know my name, but they always say ‘there’s the guy who beat Tiger’. The two times I played him I was playing well and just went about my business and wasn’t

“I love watching Steve Stricker and Jim Furyk play. They are always a treat to watch because they are not long hitters but they really work their games very well.”

What are your goals for 2012?

I would love to win over here (US), but my immediate goal is to get into the US Masters.

There are two ways to do that, win a tournament or get in the top-50 in the world. It would be nice to win one before April and go from there.

What performances in your career are you most proud of?

The highlight was winning the 2006 Australian PGA Championship. I had a four-hole playoff with Peter Lonard and ended up holing a bunker shot to win.

Your two Presidents Cup appearances must rate highly?

The Presidents Cups (2005 and 2007) were amazing experiences. Even though we lost, we had a blast and I think we had more fun losing than they (US) had winning.

How much pressure is there playing in a Presidents Cup? It’s a different kind of pressure. I remember my first one in 2005. I stood up on the first tee of my first match and there was President Bill Clinton, George Bush Snr, Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus all standing watching me tee off. I must admit I have never been so nervous in my life. It was weighty expectations, but the great thing is you have 11 other guys with you and it’s a fun week to get to know some of the guys you wouldn’t normally get to know.

overawed by anything he was doing. I have always enjoyed matchplay – the one-on-one competition – ever since I was a kid. It was nice to win and I’d love to play him again one day.

Is Tiger Woods the best golfer you have seen?

That’s a tough one. When he’s on his game he’s better than anyone around. I would have loved to have seen Jack (Nicklaus) play in his heyday. I played with Greg Norman in 1998 at The Australian and he played one of the best rounds I have ever seen.

He shot 64 and missed a few so it could have been better. That was impressive but I think overall you have got to put Tiger up there. I played with Seve Ballesteros and he was fantastic, but I wish I could have played with Jack and Peter Thomson and those sorts of guys.

What do you make of Tiger now?

From what I have seen, he looks to be swinging it good. It’s amazing what things off the golf course can do to you on the golf course. I am just so surprised he played so well when he was doing what he was doing before. I am sure he’ll be back and win more tournaments but whether he’ll be as good as he was before I doubt it, but with him anything is possible.

Who has been the biggest influence on career?

My wife Alana. We were married pretty young, when I was 22 and she was 21. She believed in me when no one else did. There was a time when I was playing pro-ams and I couldn’t break 80 and she kept on at me saying ‘we can do this’. Eventually we did and it was fantastic.

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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au.......................................................................................................................................................................................................

coverstory 51

Who are the players you most admire on the tour?

The guys who are not flamboyant – the guys who are very workman-like and business-like. I love watching Steve Stricker and Jim Furyk play.

They are always a treat to watch because they are not long hitters but they really work their games very well. Matt Kuchar is a little like that as well.

He’s not the longest guy out there but he manages his game well.

was working with Neil and sports psychologist Neil McLean and they turned me right around and got me on the right track and I have been climbing the ladder ever since.

How would you like to be remembered when you do hang up the clubs?

As someone who got the most out of their ability. I wasn’t that great a player coming through the ranks, but I think I have squeezed every ounce of ability out of what I had. I don’t think that’s a bad thing to be remembered by and hopefully I will be remembered as a major champion one day.

What’s the biggest difference in players arriving on the PGA Tour now compared to when you turned pro?

They all hit the ball so far now. If they are not hitting it 300 yards they are considered short hitters.

The players are mentally a lot more prepared now. In your first season or two, usually you are a bit wideeyed and not sure how to go about things whereas these guys come out now are very prepared and a lot of them win in the rookie season.

You didn’t suffer from the yips, but you switched to a long putter. Why? I saw Peter Senior winning all these tournaments back in the late 80s and early 90s and thought I’d give it a try. I didn’t have the yips with the short putter but I tried it, like it and have used it ever since. Maybe one day I will go back to the short one because everyone is going to the long one.

Is there still some discontent around with the longer putter?

I think in the main they are accepted. You get the odd person that doesn’t agree with it. Until the rules change, you’ll see a lot of guys using it although the belly putter is more prominent now. It’s helped Adam Scott with his golf so it can’t be all that bad.

You are deadly accurate off the tee and from 150 yards in. Is there a part of your game you’d like to improve?

I am always trying to improve my putting. That really is the key out here. I tend to be a decent putter, but I’d love to be a great putter. If you look at the stats from last year, Luke Donald has me by at least a stroke a round on the greens and if you add that up after four days it counts for a lot. It’s encouraging to see someone like him, not particularly long, get to number one in the world. It just goes to show length isn’t everything and if you hit it straight and putt well you can make a pretty good living.

What’s your favourite pastime?

Playing the guitar. I started learning about three years ago and I love it. I am a big Paul Kelly fan so I play and sing a lot of his songs – not that I can sing but I tend to play anyway.

Tell us about your amateur career?

I was never a good amateur. I think the lowest handicap I got down to was two. I ended up doing a traineeship at the Marangaroo Golf Club in Perth. That’s how I turned pro and for a few years I hacked it around on the pro-am circuit and that’s when I met my coach Neil Simpson. I

Give us Nick O’Hern’s playing tip?

If there’s something I’d love to tell kids growing up it would be to work on your short game.

You see everyone getting absorbed by hitting the ball a long way, but really it is from the wedge and in that are the scoring shots that count the most.

If you have the chance to practice, grab your wedge and your putter and go and practice that rather than take the driver out.

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March 2012

52 instruction..........................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Posture and belly length are critical

Your Anti-Slicing journey begins now KurtStegbauer

Correct length and lie

Too long and upright

GlennWhittle I have seen a lot of people recently get into the new belly putter craze. Many have booked in to have a lesson with me at the Sydney Putting Studio to work on their technique so that their initial experience with the new weapon is positive or at least encouraging.

From the reports I am getting, most people are walking in to the pro shop, grabbing the closest belly that looks and feels ok and buying it on the spot.

Due to the fact that this style of putter is actually going to be anchored in your belly button,

and the fact that you cannot change your height or arm length, I really want to encourage you to see your local PGA Pro or come and see me to fit your belly correctly. Let’s face it, if you have had trouble with your putting using the shorter one, then we definitely do not want to decrease your chances of putting well with your new belly putter.

The most common belly issues I have seen are 1) the putter being too long and 2) the putter

being too upright.

If you have purchased a new belly putter, we have Puttlab to test your stroke mechanics and we have a putter lie and loft machine and work room where we can make the necessary adjustments if required.

Next time you are watching the golf on TV, notice how the players’ starting posture has not changed since changing over.

The 2008 NSWPGA Teacher of the Year, Glenn Whittle is an AAA PGA Member and is also an official iseekgolf. com Teaching Panelist. To book a putting or swing lesson with Glenn visit www.sydneyputtingstudio.com or www.whittlegolf.com.

Contact Glenn at the Sydney Putting Studio on (02) 9541 4960 or email glenn@whittlegolf.com. Glenn offers putter fits, one hour putting lessons or putting improvement programs.

Over the past 15 years of coaching I have seen countless numbers of golfers who fade or slice the ball, some have had a minor cases of the slice while others have had a major cases.

It is a staggering figure that around 80% of the world’s golfers are slicers. You would think that with all the technology, coaching and understanding of the golf swing we have today that we should be able to improve this statistic. So what are we missing?

The reality is that if you have been slicing for a long period of time it is something that may be with you for the rest of your life unless you address the major underlying issues that are causing the slice.

Over the next few months I want us to go on a journey to discover the underlying reasons why golfers still slice. I want this coaching segment to be interactive where you, the reader, can help me help you. (I think we just had a Jerry Maguire moment).

If you are a slicer of the ball I would ask you to answer a short survey on my website. The questions are quite simple and I have used them recently with slicers and it has certainly helped them understand their golf swing better and has given them the real reasons why they can’t stop slicing. It will hopefully give you a better insight into why you slice.

Once I have received some of your replies to the survey it will better help me understand your underlying issues for slicing, and I can tailor some upcoming articles to address the issues.

Take the short, 6-question survey here: http://bit.ly/ApwmC1

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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au.......................................................................................................................................................................................................

instruction 53

The benefits of beach training for golfers

Sick of slicing?

TonyWells In keeping with the theme from last month’s issue, “the Perfect Balance in Physical and Technical Training”, to develop a total improvement plan and long-term technical improvement, this month I want to discuss what the late Ramsay McMaster described as: “The greatest revelation I’ve found to benefit golfers of all levels has been the use of beach and tidal work to strengthen a person’s body.”

This form of training is not new in the world of athletics, in fact one of the legends of Australian coaching, Percy Cerutty, used it to train many of his athletes on the beaches of Portsea on the Mornington Peninsula, namely Herb Elliott (1960 Olympic 1500 metre Gold Medalist) and Betty Cuthbert.

Through his research, Ramsay found that “there was a direct relationship between golf and athletics and the use of sand and beach work to enhance overall performance”.

At the Australasian Golf Academy, we base our golfers’ conditioning programs (Golf Specific) around the non- weight bearing features of sand and water and have found our golfers develop a better lower base ( stronger legs, thighs, glutes etc.), which can prevent “sway in the legs” a major cause of pelvic injuries.

Our golfers have also in many cases reduced their weight loss and improved their overall body tone.

Our golfers are involved in numerous “golfspecific exercises”, like walking backwards on the sand and crawling on “all fours” (which is great for returning the body to its natural movement pattern and developing correct sequence of movement).

These exercises improve posture dramatically and

create better feel through the golf muscles (glutes, inner thighs and shoulders) and allows the golfer to set to the ball better. If you get the opportunity next time you are down at the beach, watch how a baby moves across the sand…they move so well!

The major benefits of working on sand and the beach: • The environment: golfers are used to training outdoors (driving range or on the golf course).

Here in Australia, we have many of the world’s best beaches, so why not utilize them in every way… it beats training in a gym all the time.

• Sand is non-weight bearing: it moves so you don’t get the shock impact of hard surfaces like concrete and roadways.

• Your muscles have to react and work to control the movement.

• It is mentally challenging. You will fatigue quickly, so in that respect, it brings out the character of the golfer who gives up too easily or the golfer who is mentally strong — similar challenges to those faced by the golfer in high pressure situations.

• Golfers don’t usually get the lactic buildup normally associated with highintensity exercise or muscle/ joint pains the following day.

So the next time you are down at your local beach, why don’t you give it a go…it will benefit your golf.

Tony Wells is an AA rated Australian PGA Professional and Director of Instruction at Australasian Golf Academy located at the Parkwood International Golf Club on the Gold Coast. Tony works with students at every level from new golfers to tournament professionals.

With the help of Golf Physiotherapist Josh Meyer, the AGA coaching staff can design a personalised swing improvement program for students on both technical skills and physical limitations. The result is a total improvement plan and long term technical improvement, and a much less frustrated student.

To book a lesson with Tony call 0401 261 207.

BrentGerman If you are a golfer that suffers from a big slice and you are looking to get more distance, improve consistency and beat your mates, then this great drill is for you.

Hit shots with your feet a clubhead width apart. Practicing in this position will get the club working down on an inside path as opposed to swinging your arms really fast; which more times than not contributes to an out-to-in path on the downswing (the dreaded slice). By doing this drill it will get your hands and arms working in sync with your body and promotes a better swish or release through the ball. If you apply too much speed when doing this drill it will most likely bring your slice back and you will lose your balance immediately.

Hit a 7- or 8-iron at the range (off a small tee is fine as well). At the top of the backswing, point the club to the target, and as you change direction feel that your arms and hands start down first and that the body stays quiet. The hands and wrists will apply speed or power via lag — if the wrists and grip pressure of the hands is 4/10 as you will be able to hinge and re-hinge the club which provides the efficient power in the swing.

Brent German is a AAA Accredited PGA Golf Professional, based at Albert Park Driving Range in Melbourne. Call Brent on 0412 533 555 and let him empower you to excel your golf potential. More tips can be found at www.BrentGermanGolf.com

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March 2012

54 instruction..........................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Body turn part 1 PeterCroker In this lesson we will look at the role of the “body” throughout the swing.

The body pivot is the central core, which works as the motor of the golf swing. The hands are the key and the steering wheel in the golf swing. The arms act as the connecting rods and add a certain amount of leverage to the swing. In the end it is truly the hands that cause the body to turn and in turn the club head to swing. However, the body turn needs to be understood and drilled in, so that the body will respond efficiently to the commands of the hands.

Part 1:

The body pivot can be broken up in to two separate but connected sections: The Hip Turn and the Shoulder Turn. The senior part is the pivot action of the hips. The hips, knees and foot action form the base of the swing The hip turn is composed of three sections: 1. Backswing hip turn: The hips turn around the center-point of the hips, turning as if in a barrel. The left knee moves out more towards the left toe, which is turned 20+ degrees open. The right knee remains flexed but rotates slightly clockwise as the right hip turns back. The weight in the feet stays as even and balanced as possible – do not roll onto the inside or outside of either foot or have the weight move towards heels or toes.

The right hip sinks as the right thigh drops as if you are corkscrewing the hips into the ground. This turning of the hips gives a live coil to the legs and “spring loads” the base of the golf swing. There is live pressure in the left thigh all the way down to the ankle and you feel that the right leg is fully wound like a rubber band from the ankle to the hip.

2. The downswing through impact From the backswing wind-up, the hip action then has the left hip turn around the right hip socket as the center of rotation.

There is no attempt to drive off the right side and the right foot, knee, and hip act as the pivot point for the start of the downswing.

The counterbalance action has the left hip turning and straightening the left leg while the right hip remains as the center.

3. Right Hip: Once the left hip has fully turned and the left leg has straightened the right hip now turns around the left hip as axis. The right knee worked positively and in against the left knee and the weight shifts fully off of the right foot to be fully balanced on the left leg.

This could be described as the hip action and in effect there are 3 centers of rotation.

This creates the “hula-hula” action of the hips–which act as both the motor and the counterbalance to the swinging club head.

Next month, we will examine part 2 of the swing: The Shoulder Turn of the Golf Swing.

(Left) Downswing through impact and (right) Right hip finish 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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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au.......................................................................................................................................................................................................

instruction 55

Why do our kids not want to play golf?

LeeHarrington As a parent of both a 5 and 7-year old, I hear firsthand why kids at this age are not taking up golf. It is seen by them as very boring, no fun, too many rules, not easy to succeed and their friends do not play.

Why? Maybe because we try to teach them using what most professionals are familiar with– an adult-based learning program. Typically we get them on the range, line them up and let them hit balls for an hour. It this fun? No of course it isn’t.

This rings true with all the research out there, that kids are not having fun. What do we need to do to change this trend with our kids?

ANSWER: Firstly we need to make golf fun.

Second we need to make it easy for the kids to achieve some positive results to make them want to do it again.

Golf is a late specialisation sport – this means that all the skills required to be a good golfer need to be developed through other sports, kids should not be solely playing golf until later in their development. By playing other sports the child will develop the basic athletic skills to excel at any sport through achieving improved agility, balance, coordination and speed. The transfer of these skills will then allow long-term success in golf. Within a good junior golf program these basic athletic movements should be incorporated as a warm up and within the program – hitting, throwing, kicking and balance. They are great for skill development, but guess what–they are also fun.

Develop the junior athlete and the Junior golfer will excel.

I encourage all parents to combine a golf program with other sports that assist in athletic development. Gymnastics develops balance and agility, athletics develops speed and coordination, soccer develops speed, agility and coordination, swimming develops coordination and karate develops balance and coordination.

Do not specialise your child too early for golf.

The statistics shows that a golf champion at 12 has a very minimal chance of succeeding on the main tour in their 20’s.

The question also then has to be asked “how are we training our coaches and professionals to teach Juniors”?

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In general all PGA professionals strive to teach the better players and ultimately the tour player.

You ask most of these elite coaches to teach a junior program or deal with 20-30 juniors and teach them golf – they would feel a bit out of their comfort zone.

Quality junior coaching and an understanding of how to engage juniors and have fun all at once needs to be something all PGA coaches are better trained at. With some great programs

out there like MyGolf, and equipment such as SNAG golf there are no excuses to not engage and promote to all ages at both golf clubs and schools. The golf membership age is increasing so the time is now for change in both how programs are delivered and also how PGA coaches are trained. Professionals need to be recognised for quality junior coaching not just teaching the elite. Let’s get the fun back in golf.

Lee Harrington is a ALPG and PGA Member and is also the Development officer at Golf Queensland.

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March 2012

56 Instruction:practice.............................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Get a ‘Handle’ on bunker play MarkVictorsen If there’s one shot in golf that most of my members have trouble with, it’s the “Dreaded Bunker Shot”.

I often have a chuckle when I hear a player say they had more than one “Hitler” (i.e. 2 shots in a bunker) in their round.

From my experience, players often blame the sand texture (e.g. “it’s too much like talcum powder” or “there’s no sand–it’s as hard as a rock”) when in fact it is a poor technique that leads to those bad trap shots.

Players who have trouble don’t seem to be able to have the club consistently strike the correct distance behind the ball for bunker shots.

When the old Scottish Rules makers were thinking “let’s make a bunker shot hard” they knew full well that if you don’t let a player ground their club, it disorientates the golfer, and they will be all over the place with the club landing point.

When I get a student in our practice bunker, before we start hitting shots, I have them explain the mechanics of a bunker shot to me. They can rattle off the usual stuff: “clubface open,” “open stance,” “use the wrists,” “swing along the line of the feet,” “hit 2 inches behind the ball,” etc.

All that is fine if you were doing a written exam but they all fail the practical.

I will get them to hit a few shots first to see what’s going on and in 99% of occasions they have the club landing up to 10 inches behind the ball. Golfers seem to be thinking about the clubface landing when they need to be thinking more of where the handle is at impact.

Releasing your wrists early (left) can cause skulled or mis-hit bunker shots. Instead, hold the wrist hinge until it is level with the ball (right).

Bunkers shots require precise timing, and the cause of a timing mishap is the clubhead being “released” too soon in the downswing. The wrist hinge created on the backswing needs to be “held” until the handle of the club has travelled at least level with the ball. Then it can be used- similar to a fighter aircraft (club handle) letting a bomb go at the right time so the bomb (clubhead) hits the target.

This early release of the wrists as well as causing the club to enter the sand too soon can also be the cause of the “skulled shot”. The “skulled shot” occurs when the club has bottomed-out early. The club catches the ball on the way up and out of the bunker with no sand to cushion the blow on the ball.

When you see good players getting out of bunkers you think “doesn’t that look easy!” The

fact is that good bunker players don’t take half a wheelbarrow full of sand when they hit the shot. A good bunker player will hit about 1 to 2 ball widths behind the ball and with the proper use of the sand iron’s bounce create a shallow divot with perhaps no more sand taken than you could take from the bunker if you used your hand as a scoop.

I also see golfers practicing bunker shots from very hard lies when they struggle to get a simple shot out. When I practice, I make sure I give myself the best possible lie to practice from and only advance to the hard shots when the confidence level is high.

When you practice, try this routine: Firstly, draw a line in the sand about where the ball would be positioned, then draw a second line in the sand about 1 to 2 ball widths behind the

ball. Make some swings and observe where in fact you clubhead is striking the sand. If it hits the sand on the second line drawn, that’s perfect.

If it hits too early and strikes the sand behind the second line try and get the club handle “past the ball” before you unhinge your wrists.

Gary Player, the great South African golfer, was a legendary bunker player who would practice until he had holed 9 shots. Given there is only so much daylight that may be a bit tough for the rest of us! Good bunker play is a matter of confidence and the only thing that will bring confidence is a sound technique.

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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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au..........................................................................................................................................................

instruction:practice 57

Practice time, traveller DarrenChapman

As I write this article I am sitting in a hotel room on the other side of the world. Tough life, I know. But it got me thinking about all of the golfers out there who get their practice and playing time taken away from them due to work trips or non golf holidays.

Whether having lessons or not, you should still be able to create opportunities to work on your game. Many of the best ways to engrain things into your game don’t revolve around hitting golf shots but in developing the right feelings or sensations, being able to check they are correct and then carry these habits onto the golf course.

Some great examples of this are your grip, posture and alignment. All of these things can be worked on away from the golf course with the goal of being able to develop how they feel and what they look like.

Let’s start with the grip. If you are stuck in a hotel room, look around and find something that resembles a golf club grip. Where possible try to find something that has a similar shape and size to a golf club grip. Your travel toothpaste or the television remote control are good examples. Now take your grip as if it were a golf club. Start with your top hand and position your fingers. Then put your bottom hand on and check how the grip looks and feels. Be sure to take your hands off and reset a few times as if you were playing golf. Repeating this process will teach you how to take your correct grip automatically.

Moving on to posture. You can use a mirror to improve your posture and set up position. What you need to do is stand face on to the mirror while

taking your normal set up position, using your grip device if you like. From here take a look: do you look like your favourite tour player? If not, you should attempt to get that person looking back at you in the mirror. Adam Scott, Tiger Woods or Jason Day all have great address positions–take a photo with you to compare to.

Once you have the body positions that match that player, take time to reflect on what some of the sensations are in your body. Pressure points that you can recapture when on the golf course. Where is the pressure in your feet? Where is your balance point? Where is your chin positioned? Where do you feel your body being supported through your back?

These are all important factors in your address position and posture. If you can see them, feel them and replicate them then you can improve them long term. As with the grip practice you will need to break the position, reset and recheck. Make sure you get yourself set before checking the mirror.

Finally, alignment. Alignment is a simple thing to check but neglected by most golfers. There are two ways to work on your alignment while you are in your hotel room. First, stand facing a wall or even the front door. Go into your address position and then lift your head to face the door. Do you feel like your feet, knees, hips and shoulders are all facing the wall? If they don’t then your alignment is out in some form. Identify which area feels out of alignment and then make the adjustment. As with each of the other exercises you need to reset and recheck multiple times.

The second way to check your alignment is to find a line on the floor, use tiles or a join in the carpet. Take your set up and have the line about 30cm in front of your toes. From here, check that your left and right sides are an equal distance from the line. Make any adjustments and continue to reset and recheck.

Although I have spoken about doing these exercise while in hotels rooms you can also do all of these things at home.

My main advice is to search out the help of a qualified PGA professional to help understand each aspect clearly or come and book a lesson with myself at The Ridge.

Darren Chapman is a AAA Member of the Australian PGA, and teaches at The Ridge Golf Course and Driving Range in Barden Ridge, NSW. www.theridgegolf.com.au or phone (02) 9541 4960

March 2012

58 insideyourmind.........................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Young Bryden’s journey: a fresh perspective In this continuing series, we follow one of Australia’s most promising up-and-coming golfers, Bryden Macpherson, in his preparation for the US Masters, as shared by his mental game expert Jamie Glazier.

One of the most important phases for an elite athlete is to have a break and time away from their chosen sport. After such a great finish to the year with a solid performance and being low amateur at the Australian Masters, Bryden Macpherson had an opportunity to have his longest break ever from golf. This allowed him to fully recharge his batteries for a big 2012.

When he first got to the University of Georgia, Bryden has been lucky enough to meet a female golfer by the name of Kiara Hayashida from Peru.

Kiara and Bryden have been a couple ever since, and Kiara provides a great balance for Bryden to help him become his best both on and off the golf course.

Bryden spent Christmas and New Year’s in Peru, meeting Kiara’s family and having a 17day break away from the game.

I knew with the work that Bryden had done at the Masters with his swing coach, Denis McDade, that an extended break wasn’t going to be ideal to ingrain the changes to become automatic. But I also knew that the break was extremely important for Bryden, since there weren’t going to be many opportunities for breaks during his hectic 2012 schedule, leading to the US Open in June.

After his break, Bryden spent a few days back in Georgia preparing for the Aussie Amateur. When he landed in Oz, he was looking pretty relaxed

and happy after his break in Peru. Exploring a new part of the world and realizing that he is very lucky to be in his position really helped Bryden appreciate the smaller things in life and put the game of golf in perspective.

When I caught up with Bryden, I realized that after the 17-day break, his game was a little underdone and slightly out of touch on a lot of areas. But we were still pretty comfortable with playing our way into the week. Day one of the stroke play brought some of the nastiest conditions I can recall, and even though the 2nd round conditions were much kinder to the field, the damage was done and Bryden missed the Match Play by a few shots.

This was a great lesson in preparation for Bryden, and also a great opportunity to spend as much time with myself and Denis refining his technique and mental game to help him prepare as best as possible for the US Masters in April.

The following 5-7 days catching up with both Denis and I in Melbourne also had a great impact on Bryden, which is something that he hasn’t been able to do a lot since he has been at the University of Georgia. This time spent face-to-face with Denis and I is a crucial part of his development, and something that we have tried to juggle ever since he made the move to Georgia.

Low amateur at the Australian Masters, Bryden Macpherson has his sights set on Augusta, with the help of his mental game coach, Jamie Glazier Bryden is like most young athletes, they thrive on positive reinforcement and he really felt that his time in Oz helped him really believe he is working on aspects of his game that he and his team knows will help him become the best he can be. Having the face-to-face contact with both Denis and I—who have been part of Bryden’s team for approximately 7-8 years—had a great impact on both Bryden and his game, which is something we will be focusing on trying to continue.

This is so important, in fact, that it led Bryden to decide to pull out of the University of Georgia last month, allowing more time

in Oz to prepare for The Masters.

Even though the result at the Aussie Amateur wasn’t what we were hoping for, the productive work we achieved in the following week was certainly an important and valuable opportunity that we know will help Bryden in his journey towards the US Masters and US Open in 2012.

Once again, we are definitely on track, which you might have realized is quickly becoming a common theme no matter what results Bryden is achieving.

Remember: “There is no such thing as failure, only feedback!”

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March 2012

60 fitness................................................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

A doorway to better postural awareness RichardNizielski Being an all body activity, the golf swing pretty much places demands on the entire muscular and skeletal system. So it should be no surprise that a big part of an effective, repeatable golf swing is posture and the integration of the upper and lower body to work in unison.

Keeping the body in good posture while performing the golf swing can be a struggle, particularly when the hands are above chest height in the backswing and follow through.

This can be caused by a variety of reasons, however a common reason is upper back stiffness and instability in the lower half of the body. Couple this with a lack of activation of the trunk support muscles and that just about covers the whole body!

A great exercise, for developing postural awareness, mobility and upper-lower body association, is the overhead doorway squat.

For this exercise, you will ne e d a pie ce of dowel or a broom handle and a doorway, which you can perform a squat movement within.

Cut the piece of dowel or broom handle to a length which is wide

enough that when held parallel, the ends come up against the doorframe (so, slightly wider than the doorframe).

Stand in the doorway so the middle of your feet are inline with the doorframe. Extend your hands above your head, around shoulder width apart. Keep your arms straight and inline with your ears, while holding the broom handle.

Feet should be about shoulder

width apart, with the toes slightly pointing outwards.

Place the ends of the broom handle against the doorframe.

Maintain the best posture you can and perform a squat. Be sure to keep the arms as straight possible and inline with your ears.

If you felt like you were being pushed backwards, lost your balance or couldn’t get to your lowest squatting position without

compromising your technique, then take a small step back, out of the doorframe and repeat the squat.

Keep moving back until your squat

technique is good and your balance remains stable.

Once you have found this position at the doorway, perform a set of squats (8-12 repetitions is good. As you do so, maintain the best posture you can through out the repetitions. Rest and repeat for a second set.

You may want to include this exercise into your training routine or simply do it on its own to promote postural awareness and upper-lower body association.

Over time, as you improve at this exercise, you will move closer towards the doorframe. This indicates increased upper back mobility and extension as well as improved lower body to upper body integration.

Transferred to the golf swing, means greater freedom of movement and improved ball striking.

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 can be reached on 0438 027 768 or richardniz@gmail.com and richard@golffitsolutions.com

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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

fitness 61

Golf perfect to tackle obesity DavidNewbery A BRISBANE golf driving range proprietor has challenged golf industry administrators and governments to “start thinking outside the square”.

Mike Pelling, who owns and operates the Big Easy Driving Range in Brisbane northern suburbs, said the industry needed to change its strategy if it was serious about tackling declining memberships and increasing junior numbers.

“Golf continues to preach to the converted and that must change,” said the former top jockey who once underwent a lie detector test to prove his honesty in racing circles.

The 55-year-old often speaks his mind only because he is passionate about golf although he admits he is not a big voice in Australian golf circles.

“What everybody in the golf industry should be doing is marketing the real value of golf,” he said.

“The two main values of golf are exercise and social interaction.

“Whoever is in control of golf should be seriously looking at trying to promote these two benefits.

“It’s about the butcher, the baker and the candlestick maker having something to look forward to on the weekend with their mates.

“It’s about dragging kids away from their computers and getting them in touch with other kids to do something and force them to walk.

“Obesity is one of the biggest problems we have in this country,” he said.

“The golf industry should be lobbying government health and sports ministers.”

Pelling said the golf industry should promote the game’s health benefits with the slogan: Golf – it makes you walk!

“People put the emphasis on food instead of activity. If you are active, you can eat whatever you like whenever you like.

“Unfortunately, no one makes money out of walking because walking is free, but they make millions of dollars out of diet fads.

“Golf should be put in the minds of four-yearolds and their parents because if kids get interested in golf it makes them walk.”

I ask Pelling if he is familiar with Golf Australia’s

Former top jockey Mike Pelling wants the golf industry and governments to tackle obesity in children love to work in sport,” he said.

MYGolf program, which is aimed at getting more school children playing golf.

“Wouldn’t it be good if these people could be “Promoting golf at school is okay, but you have employed by the government at the schools to teach also got to put it in the mind non-golfing parents soccer or football or cricket or golf? and tell them why golf is beneficial,” Pelling said.

“You could have them at every school.

“It would give these young people a future and it “The two things kids aren’t doing is exercising would be a positive step in the fight against obesity. and interacting socially.

“Down the track the health benefits will benefit “I look at little kiddies who are obese and think, the nation and save millions of dollars. ‘what are your parents doing to you’.

“What a great feeling it would be for the nation “They were not born fat – they just haven’t been to see this resurgence in health again.” taught to exercise.

According to Pelling, Australia will produce fewer “Exercise isn’t running 50kms or going to the gym elite athletes in the future.

– it’s just walking (golf), climbing a tree, rolling in “I believe we have seen the best of sport in this the grass, planting a garden. country because the pool of children we are drawing “Junior golf foundations put money into junior on is getting smaller. golf, but the money is going towards kids that are “The percentage of children who are overweight already converted. and obese at age 10 that will get heavily involved in “You have to go to schools where no one is sport is so small it’s nothing. interested in golf and get some of them interested.

“S o c i e t y i s goi ng ab out t h i ng s t h e “You can’t blame the kids. At some point, the wrong way. parents have to take the reins and say to governments “In schools, teachers are there to teach maths and ‘we want this to happen’. science, but there is no one there to teach them sport.”

“It angers me when politicians waste tax payers’ Pelling believes the government should employ money on marketing consultants and advertising former elite athletes as sports “teachers”. that is worth diddly-squat.

“There is any number of young people who have “They do it all the time. If it didn’t work last time, LOCATION DAY DATE been very good in their particular sport who would it ain’t going to work today.”

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Rocky road smooths out

THE love of golf keeps many regional golf clubs afloat, according to Rockhampton Golf Club’s chairperson of the greens committee Max McDonald.

“The glue that holds us all together is that we love golf,” he said.

Over the past decade, Rockhampton, like many regional clubs, has endured tough times.

But things are starting to turn around for the Central Queensland working man’s golf club.

“I think there is a bit of a resurgence in golf,” Max said. “We were going through hard times five or six years ago, but now our membership is springing back.

“And our junior club continues to grow, which augurs well for the future.

“A lot of the parents are getting involved so things are on the up and up.”

For the first time in a long time, the club has had a bumper summer with full competition fields (260 players).

The club has 740 members who pay $675 for full membership.

“We are a club that relies on volunteers,” Max said. “More than 100 volunteers have helped put in concrete paths for the carts, which means more people are playing golf over the summer months,” he said.

“Normally, it’s too hot so a lot of members don’t play when it’s hot, but now they are playing again because we now have cart paths.”

In January 2011, Rockhampton Golf Club could only watch as nine holes went under water when the big wet hit.

The club was fortunate to receive help when heavy machinery company Hastings Deering moved in to help with the clean up.

Of course, the club’s members rolled up their sleeves to help the golf club’s five greens staff.

“We have water holes (dams) on the boundaries and that means ongoing drainage problems when it rains heavily,” Max said.

“We have recently put in spoon drains across some of the fairways to help with drainage.

“It’s all about keeping up the maintenance, which is ongoing because we only have two greenkeepers, TIME two labourers and one apprentice.”

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LOCATION

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wednesday

22nd July

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horton park

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8th auGust

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GET FIT TODAY Turn to page 73 for a complete list of fitting days this month

For more information please contact American Golf Supplies on 02 9524 8233or ping@americangolf.com.au or visit www.pinggolf.com

For more information please contact American Golf Supplies on 02 9524 8233or ping@americangolf.com.au or visit www.pinggolf.com

March 2012

62 opinion................................................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

The fire in the belly RobWillis Back in the day I must have been a reasonable putter. Playing partners, friends and opponents constantly tell me that I was, but after a few lean years with the flat stick —about 10 to be precise — you tend to forget the good times.

I went through the twitches and hated looking at four-footers. Mentally I was beaten and became really adept at telling myself what a poor putter I was.

I’m not the first to deal with similar frustrations, and certainly won’t be the last. Putting is the major difference at the top level between success and failure for golf professionals — the difference between filet mignon and a Big Mac for dinner, as the saying goes.

You can tell me what you like, but a good putter can persevere and hang around on tour waiting for his or her long game to kick into gear. A few good putts can make up for a missed green here or there, keeping the golfer in a relatively positive frame of mind. The opposite can’t be said.

Hit as many greens as you like but a couple of missed putts can bring you crashing down. The best ball strikers have come unstuck because they couldn’t get the ball in the hole – and the aggravation ultimately killed their golf games.

It annoyed Ben Hogan to such a degree he almost went loopy in search of the perfect swing so putting wouldn’t be his be-all and end-all. None of us have the ability, nor the time for that matter, to do what Hogan did and figure out the secret to striking the ball.

All of which is why golfers look for something else on the greens. When 32-36 inches of putter isn’t enough, they figure longer is better, hence the recent trend for belly putters, following on from the switch by many a couple of decades ago to long putters.

The long putter came first and —without going deep into the archives of history—Scotland’s Sam Torrance was one of the pioneers, resurrecting a flailing pro career with the long wand.

Others saw what was happening and got in on the act, Bernhard Langer and Australia’s own Peter Senior amongst them. Now Adam Scott is a convert and a more consistent putting year in 2011, a year

in which he contended in the US Masters and won a World Golf Championship event, indicating he might have made the right move.

Even the young ones are in on the act, emerging star Keegan Bradley winning a major with the belly putter, Billy Haas the 2011 Fed Ex Cup and the US$10 million bonus that went with it, while Webb Simpson, an exciting young American talent, burst onto the scene last year wielding a belly-putter to great effect.

Matt Kuchar went from a very average Tour player to one of the world’s elite. He did change up his swing a little, but peek at his putting stats, using the belly putter, and his turnaround of fortune is obvious.

We’re used to seeing Fred Couples using it, old nerves they would say, but the young guys have no such excuse. Their only reasoning for using the longer-type putter, is it helps them to compete.

But as fashionable as they are becoming, equally popular is the cry to outlaw the putters, or at least the style in which they are used. The critics shout that a golf club should be held in the hands and not anchored onto any other part of the body. Those against have even recruited Tiger Woods to support their cause, with the leading player of the current generation now joining the chorus against the use of the anchored putter.

What I find interesting, is the most vocal opponents to the long and the belly putters are usually those who make everything. As a group they are often the blokes who hole almost every

putt they look at.

As for the belly and long putters changing the way golf is played at a grass roots level, back at the coalface where the public battles away and club members come together for their weekly game, it won’t happen. What the vocal minority don’t realise is they are no easier to use for the average player that the short putter.

I dabbled in my day with a long putter. I was terrible with it. Didn’t have the heebie-geebies, but I simply had no feel for speed. And standing more upright over the ball, I struggled to see a consistent line to the hole. I abandoned the practice.

Your confidence goes just as quick when missing a putt through poor technique as it does with the so-called yips, so the solution isn’t as easy as many might think.

So all I would say is to cut the belly-putter-users some slack. They aren’t so much revolutionising the game, as trying to remain a part of it. Back in private club and public golf course land, this isn’t a trend ready to take over the golfing world. For the masses, long putters and belly putters are just as difficult to use as regular length putters.

Whether it is Billy Haas putting for $10 million on the US Tour, or Billy Bloggs trying to make a six-footer for a four-a-three and his local club, does it really matter the putter he uses? Skill and nerve definitely remain the determining factors.

Cut them a break and just let them get on with it.

The traditionalists and critics should remember that if they could use a short putter they would.

Callaway Hex a hit with punters To celebrate the launch of their Hex line of balls, Callaway South Pacific gave the new balls to everyday golfers to let them have a hit. Following the launch, Callaway’s Facebook Page lit up with great comments: “I gave the sleeve of HEX chrome to a colleague of mine to try on the weekend. He played in a 3-ball and each of the players got one of the balls.

All 3 of them got much more spin around the greens than usual and also improved distance.

Durability of the ball was also very good, as at the 17th hole they looked practically new .”

Louis Carstens.

“The Hex Chrome ball had a great feel off the club, in the past other Callaway balls felt hard like rocks off the club, but these are very impressive... Must say you guys have made a ball to rival Titleist.” Darren Symons.

“Both balls stopped on a dime on the greens and were hard wearing.When it came to the short game and shots around the green the Chrome was very close to the ProV1 and better than the Penta TP. When it came to putting the Chrome was fantastic.” JP Dunbar.

“The Hex black is the best ball I have played.

The feel off the tee and with my long irons was nothing like I have experienced. Approaches to greens with long and short irons the Hex Black stopped on a dime without excess suck back.

Short game was like the ball was on a string.”

Lindsay Bradford.

“An amazing ball to hit, feels great off the club and feels great around the greens and cuts through the air with little interference from a head wind. I now have found my new ball.”

Damiano Boddi.

Keep up with Callaway on Facebook www.facebook.com/CallawayGolfAustralia

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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

people 63

Kevin Hyde’s bad break DavidNewbery KEVIN Hyde didn’t see it coming.

Five days before Christmas, the proprietor of Pro Golf Circuit was involved in a road accident that changed his life forever.

He was making his final visits to his Toowoomba and Dalby clients when the van he was driving was involved in an accident with a 40 tonne semi-trailer.

“Kevin was coming back from Dalby Golf Club and stopped at road works on the Warrego Highway,” wife Judith explained. “The accident opened up Kevin’s van like a sardine can.

“The policeman at the scene said he was lucky to be alive.

“When the paramedics arrived they realised there was something very wrong and they called a helicopter to take him to the PA Hospital in Brisbane.

“He suffered a head trauma, a broken pelvis and sternum and he has also damaged around the site of a previous hip replacement,” she said.

“His right side was paralysed for a while, but the right leg is starting to function and the right fingers are now moving.

“The right elbow and shoulder are still not functioning and these may not recover properly.

“Doctors have told Kevin he will probably not play golf again because he may never recover proper balance.

“And there is a possibility that he will never drive again.”

Kevin, 70, spent six weeks in the PA Hospital and will spend a further six weeks in rehab in the QE2 Hospital.

Judith says she is counting her blessings after declining an offer to travel with him.

“He asked me to go with him, but I had a hair appointment and being so close to Christmas I stayed at home,” she said.

“If it had been any other than the time of the year, I would have been with him.

“Luckily I had a hair appointment otherwise there’d be no one to look after him.”

From Sydney originally, Kevin has spent the past 40 years working in the sporting goods and golf industry.

The job meant he was often on the road travelling from Port Macquarie to Cairns and out to places like Dalby and Tamworth.

Prior to a hip replacement in 2010, he played off a handicap of 11 but drifted out to 16.

This month the Mt Warren Park Golf Club member was supposed to be playing golf in an international seniors’ event in New Zealand.

“He was really looking forward to it because we

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Kevin spends another day in rehab were also going to have a holiday around the North Island afterwards,” Judith said.

Instead, Kevin is spending up to five hours a day in rehab, contemplating retirement and trying to sell the business he established in 1978.

“After more than 40 years in the sporting goods and golfing industry, Kevin has now been forced into retirement,” Judith said.

“Kevin loved the golf industry and made many friends among the pro shop and golf store owners.”

Kevin Hyde has been a popular figure in golf circles and we wish him a speedy recovery.

Keep fighting the good fight Kevin and hopefully we’ll see you on the fairways again soon.

March 2012

64 womeningolf..................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

A good drop for a good cause

Golfing getaways to China

At the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open last month, American Cristie Kerr partnered with local chef Ian Curley for a tasting of her wine label, Curvature.

The event was held in downtown Melbourne at the restaurant The European, where Curley is an executive chef. Fellow LPGA player Lindsey Wright helped to arrange the meeting between Kerr and Curley, who are both very passionate about raising money for cancer research.

All of the proceeds from Kerr’s wine label, Curvature, go toward funding the fight against breast cancer, while Curley is associated with Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF) here in Australia.

“Chef Ian was very interested to hear from one of his friends and one of my mates, Lindsey Wright, about the wine,” Kerr said.

“He said let’s get it over here and have a tasting and possibly carry it. We had a nice dinner there [Monday]. The food was fantastic.

I am a New Yorker and I told him this was fantastic food. It was a fun time.”

“It was a real pleasure to meet Crisitie and knowing, like me, that she likes to give back to the community was even better, I look forward to using her wine for some upcoming dinners with the OCRF, and even better was the fact that the wine tastes really good too.” said Curley Two cases of Cristie’s Curvature wine has been shipped and signed by the Rolex Ranked World No. 4 whilst she was in town. The OCRF will auction off the Curvature wine at

Golfers are beginning to discover China’s exciting Mission Hills Haikou–the second 10-course mega resort located on China’s tropical Hainan Island.

With 26-30 degree temperatures year-round, Hainan Island is China’s little-known rival to Bali & Phuket.

Continuing in the tradition of the original Mission Hills Shenzhen, the new Haikou resort has a brilliant variety of courses to suit golfers of all levels. No expense has been spared on luxury accommodation and world-class leisure, dining & recreational facilities. With mineral springs, day spas, indoor pool and an outdoor lagoon-style pool– you’re sure to have a wonderful stay.

Golfers planning on a trip to China should first check out Sydney-based travel company LetsdoChina.com, which operates tailored golf & sightseeing tours to China’s best resorts & scenic destinations, and offers a range of over 60 DIY and escorted tours & cruises.

Owned & operated by Mark and Ai (Alice) Sawyer, LetsdoChina.com is managed by experts who understand Chinese culture and speak the language. Their main focus is to take care of planning every aspect of your trip, so all you have to focus on is having a fantastic holiday.

LetsdoChina.com is a fully-licensed travel company, so your holiday investment is protected by the Australian Government. It is also backed by a superior network of professional tour guides, modern transport and quality hotels. With a policy of clearly displaying all prices and detailed inclusions, there’s nothing hidden or unexpected with this company.

If you’re thinking about an adventure to China or Hong Kong, check out the extensive range of tours at: www.letsdochina.com or phone 1300 850 988.

Cristie Kerr with chef Ian Curley a number of their major fund raising events during 2012, with funds raised to be split 50/50 between breast cancer and OCRF. The wine label is a part of a unique collaboration between Kerr and Suzanne Pride Bryan, co-owner of the Pride Mountain Vineyards. Kerr has committed her career to the cause of developing a cure for breast cancer. Having witnessed her mother, aunt and godmother battle the disease, Cristie founded Birdies for Breast Cancer, a charity that has raised several million dollars for breast cancer research and treatment. In 2010 she opened

the Cristie Kerr Women’s Health Center at the Jersey City Medical Center.

The OCRF is one of Australia’s preeminent bodies supporting ovarian cancer research programs and is focused upon the understanding the causes of ovarian cancer, its early detection and improving patient survival.

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women and is often detected in the advanced stage of the disease resulting in a high mortality rate. One goal of the OCRF is to improve the mortality rate and long-term survival rates for ovarian cancer.

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66 womeningolf..................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Stephanie’s countdown to Europe DavidNewbery GOLF is not a sprint and that why Stephanie Na is biding her time.

The Adelaide-born 22-year-old, who turned professional in 2009, believes she is still a P-plater when it comes to professional golf.

For Na, the transition from amateur to professional golf has taken a little longer than expected.

“It wasn’t a smooth transition,” Na said. “I went from being the number one amateur in Australia to being a small fish in a big pond.

“I feel like I am a bit of a slow learner so it’s been a difficult few years.

“I still have a lot to learn, but I have already become a stronger player and person as well.

“I am always trying to improve my golf and to be a better person.”

Still, Na is starting to get the hang of professional golf and has already registered a number of top-5 finishes.

“I’d love to have a big win soon,” said Na, who has a Ladies European Tour card.

Last year Na played on the Futures Tour in the US. “I have had a lot of third-place finishes. I have been in contention a few times and would like to be in the hunt more often this year and give myself the chance to win.”

Standing 163cm (5’4”), Na employs a swing that was homemade by her father Jung Il and refined somewhat by Brisbane-based coach Ian Triggs.

Talented ball-striker Stephanie Na is committed to this year’s Ladies European Tour She is sneaky long off the tee and considered a good ball-striker.

Her resume includes US women’s amateur medallist (joint winner), US amateur quarterfinalist, winner of the Australian Stroke Play, winner of the West Australian and Victorian Stroke Play championships and named amateur of the year.

“She is a very good player and an outstanding athlete,” said coach Triggs.

“Most of her skills are good and she is working very hard on the mental side of her game.

“She made some good gains to get her Ladies European Tour card. It was tough going and she

got it done when she needed to birdie three of the last nine holes.

“It shows she has some (mental) strength.”

Softly spoken, Na was four when she first put her hands on a club.

She has hardly let go since.

Her father Jung Il, a keen amateur golfer, didn’t start out with a master plan for her.

She was an excellent gymnast who represented South Australia and reached Olympic preselection.

“I reached level 10, which is the highest in gymnastics and competed in four or five national titles,” Na said.

“But when I was 14 I decided to retire because I had reached level 10 and wasn’t going to the Olympics. It was hard to stop because I loved it so much.”

But she had golf and her father noticed his daughter’s excellent hand-eye coordination and serious commitment to golf.

Father and daughter were soon spending hours on the practice fairway, practising every shot imaginable.

She was close to her father and there was nothing he couldn’t do.

“My dad has been the biggest influence,” she said.

“He has taught me pretty much everything I know.”

When Na was 10, she joined The Grange Golf Club in Adelaide and two years later she joined Royal Adelaide.

Her biggest asset is her putting and her ballstriking ability.

“She’s a very good putter and a strong ballstriker,” Triggs said.

If Na does have a weakness, it’s her short game.

“My short game has always let me down, but I have been working on it over the last few years.

“My pitching from 30 to 70 yards needs to improve, especially on the par-5s.”

Triggs has detected a minor flaw in her swing plain and believes it’s easily fixed.

“Her shaft plane has always been a little too steep and causes some strong shots off her wedge that go a few yards left of flag or too long,” he said.

Only time will tell how far Stephanie Na can go, but if the experts are to be believe then she has a bright future in the game.

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clubs 67

A great shot for golf The Stoney Creek 3ball Golf Classic features a radically different golf event format that is providing something new and exciting for golf.

Australia’s newest golfing challenge, The Stoney Creek 3ball Golf Classic, is set to turn the traditional Ambrose/Stableford event on its head.

The Stoney Creek 3ball Golf Classic is a team event comprising 3 golfers per team who tee it up alongside another team to form a group of 6 players.

This ensures the integrity of the competition as the teams swap cards and mark down the scores of the other team. It’s also surprisingly quick to play.

The format of the event combines Ambrose, Stableford and aggregate.

Like in Ambrose, all three players tee off on a hole, and then the team selects one ball to play from. However, once a tee shot is chosen, the format shifts to single stableford, as each team member plays out their own ball from that position until it is holed. This keeps all 3 players involved for the entire 18 holes.

To make things even more interesting, the scoring system is determined by which of the 3 players’ tee shot is taken. The pressure is on from the start:

If a team elects to take the tee shot of the lowest handicapper, the single best stableford score of the 3 players is recorded as the team score. For example, if the team takes their lowest marker’s drive, and one of the players scores 4 points on the hole, the team records 4 points as their team score.

If a team elects to take the tee shot of the middle handicapper, then the two best stableford scores of the 3 players are recorded as the team score.

For example, taking their middle-marker’s drive, the two best scores are, say 2 points and 3 points, so the team records 5 points as their team score.

Finally, if a team elects to take the tee shot of the highest handicapper, then all 3 of the stableford scores of the team are recorded as the team score.

Again for example, if the three players score 2 points, 1 point and 4 points, the team records 7 points as their team score.

In addition, there is a “Rodeo” rule, requiring each player on the 3-person team to use 6 tee shots during the 18 holes. So, when it comes to the 17th and 18th holes, not all of the 3 players will be able

“A very clever format and so much fun to play” - Andrew Evans, PGA Tour Professional to choose their tee shot for the team.

Peter Allan from Muirfield Golf Club played in a trial game at Bexley Golf Club recently, and became an instant fan of the format.

“It only took a few holes to figure out the format and scoring system, after that it was really easy,” he said.

“We started to think of the best tactics and strategy to maximise our teams score. For example, the Par-4 10th Hole at Bexley has a stroke index of 10/23 so we thought it would be best to take my tee shot as the lowest marker and hope that John (Handicap 24) could manage to score a par as he gets 2 shots on that hole, which would be a 4/4 and 4 points for the team. Naturally, our tactics didn’t work, as I proceeded to hook my drive to the left and end up right behind a tree with no shot, but that’s a great feature of the format of the game.”

“There is certainly an element of pressure to the event as you don’t want to let your teammates down,” he added. “Also, there is always the possibility of making up a lot of points with a great hole so it definitely keeps you interested for the entire 18 holes. After we finished our round we found ourselves reminiscing over a beer or two about the good and bad holes we had as a team and couldn’t wait to have another crack at the fun and exciting event.”

To be eligible to play in a Stoney Creek 3ball Golf Classic Event near you, every member of your team must be a member of a recognised Australian Golf Club and have a current Australian golf handicap and Golflink number.

To find out more about the competition or to book a place in an event please visit www.stoneycreek3ballgolf.com.au

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of www.insidegolf.com.au 68 the19thhole............................................................................................................................................................................................................ u! yo

Your letters, stories and photos

The winner is: TOO MANY RULES

T

4. This rule is an insult to golfers who wish to use their phones “for course distance measurement only” because they are automatically accused of dishonesty. All other players are accepted under the self-regulation provisions of golf but because you have a device that may measure North or can connect to the Internet you are accused of using it against the Rules. How dare they make such an accusation!

here are too many rules of golf and they are far too complex.

This is demonstrated by the fact that the rulebook is a small and hard to read document that has to be explained by an even larger book which still might not provide a ruling.

I believe the rules could be substantially reduced, if not halved.

A couple of simple examples: With rules like this it is no wonder we can’t attract people 1. Why does a ball have to be completely over the OOB line to to golf. It is time for a review with the aim of reducing be OOB, whilst a ball only has to touch the Hazard or GUR line the number and complexity of rules and maybe even to be in that condition? Couldn’t they be the same? get close to the 12 Rules (all on one page), which started 2. What does it matter if the pin is in the hole when putting? The the game. chances of going in are the same as the ball being deflected.

One more issue that irks me: stop catering to the pros.

The Pros and Top Amateur Competition Hard Card should There are complicated rules governing the flag attendant, not have “Local” rules that contradict the rules of golf and I pin and the hole liner and I bet most golfers aren’t aware of refer to the Embedded Ball rule Through the Green. The Hard them. Get rid of them.

Card allows top players to get relief under any conditions but 3. Why have Hazards and Lateral Hazards? All hazards should the Rule allows that provision only under adverse ground be marked as a Lateral Hazard. The only actual difference is conditions for club players. Club members watch the pros that a player may get a two club length drop area as relief and learn most of the rules via the TV. So, how many players from the Hazard. Getting rid of Yellow (Hazard) pegs would are taking illegal drops each week around Australia? reduce the Hazard rules by half, reduce course costs and player confusion.

Barry Degenhardt (via email) There are many more rules that can be either deleted or refined.

The new rule governing Distance Measuring Devices is appalling because: Have you got something to say?

1. It is left up to each club to decide if the devices canmonth be Then tell us! Write to us via email at Letters of the or mail a via email at used. WHY? Have you got something toed@insidegolf.com.au say? Then tell us! Write to us letter to: The Editor, Inside Golf, PO Golf, 2. The devices must be approved by ed@insidegolf.com.au R&A but there is no list. or mail a letter to: The Editor, Inside Box 360 Nunawading, Vic 3131.

Tell or 3. They must only measure distance, PO but Box if they are capable of 360 Nunawading, Vic 3131. Tell an interesting story an interesting story or something measuring anything else, the Player MUST be disqualified. something funny about golf and you could WIN a funny about golf and you could WIN Therefore, Smart phones are effectively banned (nice result Smoothy Compact buggy avalued at RRP$230!

Smoothy Compact buggy valued for the other manufacturers). If taken to the letter of the at RRP$230! rule if your Smartphone is switched on then you should

R&A ruling doesn’t ‘measure’ up

In response to the GPS ruling (iPhone GPS apps now banned on course, February Issue), it’s time golf administrators woke up and smelt the fresh air. It doesn’t matter how much information the golfer has he still has to hit the shot. How many golfers can consistently dial up an accurate shot to within a meter? None.

And people wonder why we can’t attract new players to our game! That’s it boys, just bury the old heads further into the sand!

Ron (On our website) Golf Clubs are struggling enough in an attempt to win the younger generation over to our game, without the R&A bringing in restrictions, such as this, for the everyday Club golfer. How is the forecast, wind direction, velocity etc going to drastically alter the average golfers score on any particular day? I thought the aim for normal club competitions was to speed up play and get the younger generation participating. If using an iPhone GPS can assist in these two areas then why not allow them? All this rule does for normal Club competition is to put an extra duty on overworked officials, board members and Pro Shop Staff in trying to police this issue. Let’s move with the times.

John Timmins (via email)

We love “YOUR SAY”

I was delighted to read the “YOUR SAY” article in the February edition of Inside Golf about your views on what goes into a golf magazine. Setting aside space in each issue of the magazine for reader-submitted interest items from course write-ups, to equipment reviews, to golf course photography and even fictional stories, poems, jokes and more, is a great initiative which I believe will foster both golfer and golf club “involvement”.

Congratulations to Inside Golf for their insight in setting aside space in each issue. I reckon this will be a winner!!!!

Dave Hicks Wanneroo Golf Club WA (via email)

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March 2012 of www.insidegolf.com.au......................................................................................................................................................................................................... yo

u!

the19thhole 69

WIN: a Bollé Prize Pack What IF?

W A clubfitting “House Call”

A

quick-thinking Callaway clubfitter has proven that, no matter rain, hail or a fear of the number 13, a fitting day can still go ahead under any circumstances.

One not-so-fine day last month, Daniel Marsh, Callaway’s NSW Technical & Training Representative, arrived at Moruya Golf Club to perform clubfittings for 13 eager members who had pre-booked for the day (a fully-booked time sheet!)

Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other plans, as the heavens opened and, with rain forecast for the entire day, the fitting appeared to be a washout.

Never one to give up easily (and not wanting to disappoint the members), Daniel had a brainstorm.

With the Callaway Mobile Performance Centre and TrackMan in the van, Daniel asked Moruya’s Head Golf Professional, Darren Golder, if he could set up the MPC and TrackMan in the clubhouse to conduct the fits.

13 clubfittings later, the day was a complete success, and the members left the course happy (and properly fit for their new Callaway clubs).

Well done to Daniel, and Callaway, for their innovative thinking.

hat if you were playing in the club championship matchplay final and the match was all square after 17 holes?

You had the honour and hit your ball a modest 250 metres to the middle of the fairway, leaving a simple six-iron to the pin.

Then your opponent hits his ball deep into the woods to the right of the fairway.

You do the honourable thing and help your opponent look for his ball.

Just before the permitted five-minute search period ends, your opponent says: “Go ahead and hit your second shot and if I don’t find my golf ball in time, I’ll concede the match.”

You hit your ball to approximately 10 foot from the pin. Just as your golf ball comes to rest, you hear your opponent exclaim from deep in the woods “I found it”.

You opponent hit his ball and you watch in amazement as it settles just six inches from the cup.

Now comes the real “what if” in the story.

What if you had your opponent’s golf ball in your pocket?

What would you do in this rather “delicate” situation/dilemma? Tell us via our website, www.insidegolf.com.au/competitions, or via email: ed@insidegolf.com.au. The best answer will win a Bollé pack including a pair of Bollé Draft sunglasses, a Bollé Sports Bag and cap.

A Pair of Aces

C

From the Wayback Machine...

It’s amazing what you can find when you clean out the garage.

Loyal Inside Golf Reader Warren (Wazza) Gray sent in this photo of an amazing “relic” from years gone by. Found by a mate when de-cluttering his house, the item is an old-fashioned golf club cleaner. While we don’t know exactly how old the item is, the packaging states that it is made from “waterproofed Beech Wood” and it can be attached to your golf bag with the “supplied Terylene cord.”

This leads us to wonder, are there any other golf nostalgia items out there that our readers have come across and are worth sharing in Inside Golf?

If you’ve got any old/nostalgic golf gear that you’d like to share, snap a photo and send it to ed@insidegolf.com.au.

Keep up with us online!

hatswood golfers Richard Davis and David Freeman defied odds of about 17 million to one to bag stunning successive holes in one. Freeman, 46, of Willoughby and Davis, 48, of North Balgowlah, hit consecutive aces on the 148m, par-3 seventh hole during a recent round at Chatswood. Playing in a group of five, Davis teed off second and sunk his maiden ace before Freeman stepped up to the tee to notch up his second. “The other guys were complaining that there was no more room left in the cup,” Freeman joked.

Read the entire issue of Inside Golf online: www.insidegolf.com.au. Join our Facebook page 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

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March 2012

of www.insidegolf.com.au 70 the19thhole............................................................................................................................................................................................................ u! yo

MatthewPitt

It was Abraham Lincoln who said “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” Australian golf today is in a battle to compete with other leisure activities for the time, expenditure and attention of golfers and potential golfers. If Honest Abe was right, squabbling over narrow self-interest within the game may place the future of golf at risk.

Some recent letters to Inside Golf highlight one such schism in Australian golf. In issue 76, Frans Vogel wrote that he could not agree to terms with a golf resort on a weekend group package and he took his business elsewhere. He argued that the club must be financially strong if protecting member’s tee times was worth more than the $15,000 revenue he was offering.

Bankstown GC member Stuart Heidenreich’s response (issue 77) was that golf clubs only survive through long-term and loyal membership, not through visitor bookings. In issue 78, Trevor M took things further, suggesting that Mr Vogel had argued that club members should give up their tee times to visitors.

Golf clubs today must maximise the return on their resources to survive and, for most clubs, visitor green fees and bar takings are essential. Moreover, many larger clubs also actively court the wedding market. This is not to say that club memberships are unimportant. Club memberships are the bedrock of every club’s viability, but it would be naive to suggest that golf clubs ‘only’ survive through memberships.

Unfortunately, some club members lapse into taking a high-minded approach to visitors – I have

seen this at my club. However, taking an ‘us and them’ approach simply cleaves an unnecessary division between club golfers and social golfers. Both groups are dependent upon each other – the clubs need the green fee and catering revenue and the visitors need the golf courses to play on.

Not all clubs and club members are like this. In December I was a guest at The Victoria Golf Club in the week prior to the JB Were Masters and I was struck by the friendly hospitality from every club member and staff member I encountered. At one of the premier clubs in Australia, I was made to feel warmly welcome and valued as a guest at the club.

We are blessed to live in a country with the third-highest number of golf courses per capita in the world. This is a remarkable privilege we enjoy.

The resources required to create and maintain golf courses are enormous. The vast majority of people in the world do not have the luxury of choice and availability of access that we enjoy with our golf courses. When it comes to golf, we truly are the lucky country.

Rather than focussing our energy on creating a divide between factions in the game, we would be better served by together attending to one of the biggest issues facing the game: falling participation.

The more people playing golf, the more benefits there will be for all to share, including better course conditions and facilities. If the game is ailing and participation is falling, then we all stand to lose.

This applies to all golfers – whether you are a club member, a social golfer or both.

In addressing participation, we can all contribute by being ambassadors for our game. We can all help

your local experts

“

to promote golf and get more people playing by encouraging juniors, newcomers to the game and our fellow golfers to feel welcome and to want to continue playing. Golf Australia and all the State amateur governing bodies can set the example and lead on these issues, but we can all play our part.

If we focus on what unifies us as golfers, we can share the common goal of the betterment of the game. To achieve that, we first need to set aside what separates us.

In one respect, we all recognise that we are custodians of the game. Every divot we replace, every pitch mark we repair and every bunker we rake is done through a sense of shared responsibility to others on the golf course with us and those who will follow us down the fairway. It is not a great leap to extend this consideration to fostering an approach of inclusiveness and hospitality among our fellow golfers.

Perhaps the greatest quality of the game of golf is that it is self-regulating. It requires a high level of integrity, character, sportsmanship and consideration for our fellow golfers. If we can learn and apply these principles in our approach to golf, both on and off the course, perhaps together we can all give something back to the game. We would all be better served to regard our fellow golfers as comrades in arms with a common purpose and love for the game, rather than just competitors for tee times.

Matthew Pitt is a regular contributor to Inside Golf. Matt has been a committee member at Heathcote Golf Club, is a handicapper and GAA handicap provider and is the founder of Social Golf Australia, an event management company.

The quick nine quiz David Newbery

1. Who said? “I play golf with friends, but we don’t play friendly golf.” – Tiger Woods, Greg Norman, Ben Hogan or Lee Trevino.

2. Instead of recording his usual signature on his scorecard, a competitor records his initials. Has the competitor met the requirements of Rule 6–6b?

3. Can you solve the anagram (EVENT OILER) to identify a formidable American senior golfer?

4. What nationality is RACV Australian Ladies Masters champion Christel Boeljon?

5. A competitor in stroke play lifted his ball on the putting surface and by mistake replaced it with another ball. He holed out and drove off the next tee? What is the ruling?

6. Where will this year’s Open Championship be held – Royal Lytham and St Annes, Carnoustie, Royal Troon or Muirfield?

7. Fourteen-year-old sensation Lydia Ko, who beat the pros to win the Women’s NSW Open, represents which country?

8. Where did Nils Lied, an Australian, record a 2640-yard drive in 1962?

9. On which golf course would you find The Grave, The Coffin and Hell Bunker?

ANSWERS: (1). Ben Hogan; (2). Yes; (3).

Lee Trevino; (4). Dutch; (5). The competitor incurs a penalty of two strokes; (6). Royal Lytham and St Annes; (7). New Zealand; (8) Antarctica; (9). St Andrews.

A golf clubhouse divided

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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au.........................................................................................................................................................................................................

the19thhole 71

Ditching the Longest Drive MichaelGreen I like to hit the ball a long way as much as the next person does. However, I know when the driver should stay in the bag. I decided to play safe on this short par-4. A conservative, thinking-person’s approach to the golf hole.

And it felt good, until I hit it.

I grabbed the 5-iron and nailed the golf ball straight into the trees on the right.

Annoyed, I shoved the offending club back into the bag wishing I had thrown caution to the wind and played a driver after all. Curse you conservative golf brain!

“Hey, this is the longest drive hole, isn’t it?”

Initially I thought my partner was playing a cruel joke on me, but he was right.

As the salt hit the already large wound, I remembered that the 12th had been appointed the longest drive hole for the day. Long drive competitions are played out on longer holes.

At least where most golfers are left with no doubt that the driver is the only option from the tee. Nevertheless, today it was a short, but not quite drivable par-4, and I was now not going to take home the bottle of wine.

Initially, I thought the short, narrow hole of choice was to encourage accuracy over brute strength, which would give a slightly larger percentage of the field a chance to win

the prize. Because the truth is, long drive competitions are mostly won by golfers that can hit the ball a long way. You only need one of them to hit it straight and it is all over.

I realise that is straight from the book of “state the bleedin’ obvious” but when you think about it, most golfers have more chance of playing Augusta National or dating Ana Ivanovic for that matter, than winning the longest drive competition.

Only a few gifted golfers have a good chance of winning. Perhaps no more than 20% of the field on any given day. This seems to me, to go against the spirit of the game.

This may be starting to sound like sour grapes, but I should say that I have won a couple of long drive competitions in my time. Not many, but I have taken away a few vouchers when the field is small or erratic enough.

The admiration from fellow golfers was always tempered by the distinct feeling that most of the golfers I had ‘beaten’ were not really in with a chance to win in the first place. It was like winning a competition that was only open to people born on a Tuesday.

Handicaps allow for every skill level of golfer to compete against each other. It levels the playing field and gives us all a fighting chance of winning the plaid jacket, the bottle

Deep down, we all want to grip it and rip it. But is distance overrated? of wine or pro shop gift voucher. To then go and include a game that excludes most of the field from winning just doesn’t seem right.

Of course, there have been some variations on the long drive competition. Some prizes are awarded to not just the longest drive, but also the most accurate. A much fairer competition in the age of big drivers, but still not exactly a fair playing field.

So I wonder, do we really need this ‘grip and rip’ competition in our corporate, charity and tournament golf days? With all the talk about how far the modern golf ball is going, we aren’t exactly deterring golfers from playing a more shot-shaping, intellectual golf game.

Do we really need this extra incentive to hit

the ball further at the expense of accuracy and finesse?

Let’s bring in more nearest-the-pin competitions. Maybe one on every par-3, for each grade and ditch the longest drive altogether. Those Bubba’s of the charity golf days get enough pleasure and admiration from spanking the ball a mile, without getting a medal for it as well.

Michael Green is an avid golf fanatic, and the author/blogger of the Aussie Golfer blog (www. aussiegolfer.net) one of Australia’s most popular golf blogging sites. Follow him on Twitter (twitter.com/AussieGolfer) or on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AussieGolfer

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March 2012

72 the19thhole............................................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Caddy smack LarryCanning I recently attempted to bestow my considerable professional golf knowledge onto Aussie Star Lyndsey Wright during the Women’s NSW Open at Oatlands in Sydney. We’d had Lyndsey as a guest on “The Back Nine” Show on 2GB and MTR and she was an absolute delight. This girl can play as well, having finished 2nd in the US LPGA Championship and 4th in the Kraft Nabisco and being ranked in the world’s top 12.

It seemed like the perfect partnership to me. One of this country’s leading women golfers partnering with one of Australia’s most … I’ll get back to that.

I kept a diary of that week Thursday 7:30pm – I start my preparation.

Practicing terms like… “get down”… “get up”… ”Oh, be right baby”… “How could you hit it over there? “… “why did you hit it there? “… “any plans for the weekend? “….etc Friday 10:30am–Arrive at Oatlands Golf Club and meet Lyndsey. I’m immediately impressed with her friendly nature and down-to-earth attitude.

She is obviously awestruck with my… awe.

11:10am – On the first tee. I’m thinking Lyndsey could be a little tense and suggest she hits a three wood for safety. She smiles and grabs the driver.

I realise I’m more nervous than she is. We are playing with a young amateur gun named Tilly Poulson and recent Victorian Open winner Joanna Klatten from France.

1:30pm–We have turned 4-under-par and I have turned into the ALPG’s most soughtafter caddy.

3:30pm – A daggy finish including a double bogey from nowhere on 18th and “We” shoot 1-under. Good thing it wasn’t 1-over…according to the unwritten law of high-profile caddies, that’s when caddies can use the term “she” and not “We”.

Saturday 5:30am – what am I doing?!

7:40am – On the first tee feeling a little more relaxed. Lyndsey is ready to go low. (That’s another caddy term.)

8:30am–Just when I thought Lynds wasn’t striking the ball quite as sharply as the day

Keperra Cou ntry Golf Clu b

before; I suggest a swing tip with her follow through. My boss responds with “When my backswing is in good shape I can cover the ball and the follow through looks after itself…. How many kids did you say you had Larry?”

8:31am–I realise I have never been told to ‘mind my own business’ so politely.

10:30am – Lynds’ lack of interest in my swing tip has proved to be a masterstroke and we are 4-under and in perfect shape on the fairway on 11. I give her a yardage of 129- front and 149- the flag.

10:31am–The ball is mid-flight heading straight at the stick… suddenly I realise I have used the flag measurement for the 12th not the 11th. It’s actually 139 to the flag!

10:31½am – Pondering how I can end my own life before Lyndsey sees where her ball is going to end up.

10:40am – Lynds manages to get down in two for a par and I remain under her employ.

12:10pm – After one of the best exhibitions of ball striking I have ever seen, Lyndsey has signed for 6-under 66 and is running second behind New Zealand’s whiz-kid, Lydia Ko. Sunday 11:30am – We’re in the last group with France’s Gwladys Nocera and the 14-yearold kid the whole world is talking about. Lydia seems like any other courteous, happy 14-yearold youngster and Lynds and I agree it will be a shame when we beat her.

1:30pm – It’s all going to plan. We are 2-under for the day and within 2 shots of Lydia.

2:30pm – at 4-under for the day, 11-under over all…. but still two back. This cute innocent Kiwi kid is getting a really annoying…

3:30pm – We catch a couple of unlucky breaks on 16 and 17 and finish up in a tie for third. Lydia Ko finishes 14-under and makes history by becoming the youngest player to win a professional golf tournament on the men’s or women’s tour.

4:30pm–I break Oatlands Golf Club’s record for throwing down more beers in 1 hour than any other human.

It was fantastic watching Lydia Ko up close, creating golfing folklore but even more impressive realising how nice a kid she is. I can’t think of a better person to take our game into the next generation.

As for Lyndsey Wright, I think she is the most down-to-earth, grounded professional sportsperson I’ve ever met. And let me tell you… she can bloody play! I’m looking forward to watching Lyndsey contending in the upcoming Majors knowing that the way she dealt with my swing tip played a massive part in her success.

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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au............................................................................................................................................................................................................

demodates 73

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Day

Date

Time

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

March 01 March 02 March 05 March 06 March 07 March 08 March 09 March 09 March 10 March 11 March 12 March 13 March 13 March 14 March 14 March 15 March 15 March 16 March 19 March 20 March 21 March 22 March 23 March 24 March 26 March 27 March 28 March 29 March 30

11am - 4pm 9am - 3pm 1 - 5pm 11am - 4pm 2 - 4pm 11am - 4pm 9am - 12pm 1:30 - 4:30pm 10am - 4pm 10am - 4pm 12 - 5pm 10am - 2pm 4 - 7pm 9am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 8am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 11am - 3pm 2 - 5pm 1 - 5pm 1 - 5pm 1 - 5pm 9am - 3pm 8am - 12pm 9am - 2pm 9am - 2pm 10am - 3pm 11am - 3pm 9am - 3pm

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

March 02 March 03 March 04 March 07 March 08 March 09 March 14 March 14 March 15 March 16 March 17 March 21 March 21 March 22 March 23 March 24 March 26 March 30 March 31

1 - 5pm 9am -12pm 5:30 - 7:30pm 9am - 1pm 3 - 6pm 2 - 5pm 8:30am - 12:30pm 3:30 - 5:30pm 5:30 - 7:30pm 1 - 5pm 9am - 12pm 10:30am - 1pm 3 - 5pm 3 - 5pm 4 - 6pm 8am - 12pm 10am - 1pm 1 - 5pm 1 - 5pm

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

March 06 March 07 March 07 March 08 March 08 March 09 March 10 March 13 March 14 March 14 March 15 March 15 March 16 March 17 March 20 March 21 March 21 March 22

4 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 4 - 8pm 3 - 6pm 10am - 2pm 3:30 - 6:30pm 10am - 2pm 5 - 8pm 10am -2pm 5 - 8pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 1 - 5pm 10am - 2pm 5 - 7pm 10am - 2pm

Thursday Saturday

March 08 March 17

3:30 - 7:30pm 10am - 2pm

Location

Day

Date

Time

Tea Tree Gully Golf Club* Mount Osmond Golf Club* Blackwood Golf Club* Drummond Golf Driving Range* Clare Golf Club* Royal Adelaide Golf Club* Adelaide Shores Golf Park* HOG Mile End* Glenelg Golf Club* Naracoorte Golf Club* Tasmania Drummond Golf Cambridge* Royal Hobart Golf Club* Country Club Driving Range* Western Australia Royal Fremantle Golf Club Wembley Golf Course Wannaroo Golf Course Royal Perth Golf Course Melville Glades Golf Course

Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Friday Saturday

March 23 March 24 March 25 March 26 March 27 March 28 March 29 March 29 March 30 March 31

1 - 4pm 9am - 3pm 9:30am - 3pm 2:30 - 6:30pm 10am - 2pm 9am - 4pm 9am - 12pm 3:30 - 6:30pm 9am - 3pm 9am - 12:30pm

Thursday Friday Saturday

March 01 March 02 March 03

5 - 8pm 10am - 3pm 1 - 5pm

Tuesday Saturday Wednesday Saturday Saturday

March 06 March 10 March 14 March 17 March 31

10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm

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Day

Date

Time

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

March 06 March 07 March 07 March 07 March 08 March 09 March 13 March 13 March 14 March 14 March 15 March 15 March 16 March 28

12 - 6pm 2 - 6pm 4 - 7pm 5:30 - 7:30pm 1 - 5pm 11am - 3pm 1 - 5pm 4 - 7pm 9am - 1pm 2 - 3pm 10am - 3pm 4 - 7pm 2 - 6pm 5 - 7pm

Friday Tuesday Thursday Saturday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Friday Saturday

March 02 March 06 March 08 March 10 March 15 March 16 March 23 March 24 March 30 March 31

3 - 6pm 6 - 8pm 5 - 8pm 10am - 1pm 6.30 - 8.30pm 3 - 6pm 3 - 6pm 3 - 6pm 4 - 6pm 10am - 5pm

Thursday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Friday Wednesday Thursday Friday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Friday Friday Friday Saturday

March 01 March 07 March 07 March 08 March 08 March 09 March 15 March 16 March 17 March 21 March 22 March 22 March 23 March 23 March 30 March 31

11am - 1pm 10am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 3 - 6pm 5:30 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2:30pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 4.30 - 6.30pm 5 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm

Thursday

March 16

10am - 2pm

Thursday Friday Wednesday

March 01 March 02 March 15

11am - 5pm 11am - 5pm 1pm - 4pm

* Appointment Only. ** Members Only. † Callaway demo date. ‡ Callaway fitting day. Demo dates subject to change without notice. It is recommended that you contact venue before attending.

March 2012

74 golfdirectory............................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

The Friendly Club

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Idlewilde Town & Country Motor Inn Stay & Play packages Play 18 holes at Pambula/ Merimbula & Eden Golf courses * 3 nights Dbl or twin

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ph: (02) 6495 6844 e: accommodation@idlewildemotorinn.com *Offer excludes 20th of Dec until the 20th of Jan and Easter weekend

• 6 nights accommodation From • Green fees on 5 golf courses (Cape Schanck, Devil Bend, Eagle Ridge Golf Course, Flinders Golf Club, Moonah Links, Mornington Golf Club, Portsea Golf Club, Rosebud Country Club, Sorrento Golf Club, The Dunes Golf Links, The National Golf Club, St Andrews, Mornington Peninsula) • Cooked or Continental breakfast included • Foxtel in all units per person per night* • Rosebud House also available to hire

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March 2012 www.insidegolf.com.au.........................................................................................................................................................................................

golfdirectory 75

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(Price based on 2 person share. +$30 single person supplement)

TWO COURSE SPECIAL

Cobram-Barooga Golf View Motel Golf Course Road, Barooga, NSW, Australia, 3644 FreeCall 1800 557 192 or Fax +61 3 5873 4556 www.baroogagolfview.com.au | julie@baroogagolfview.com.au

Only $195

Mossman & Sea Temple Includes Carts, Fees & Transfers (Price based on 2 person share. +$20 single person supplement)

MOSSMAN

Only $49

Includes Fees & Transfers

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PA

RAD

I

Enquiries welcome $

w w w. p o r t d o u g l a s g o l f t o u r s . c o m . a u e fre oll ure t s ch ll u ro Ca r a b fo

Established 1972 • Full length 27-hole course • Excellent greens • Professional tuition available • Clubs for hire • Open seven days - BYO • Electric golf carts available

16 Weekdays

20 Weekends & Public Holidays *

$

100A Creek Road, Birkdale, Qld | Phone (07) 3207-2452

BEERWAH GOLF CLUB

RESORT

At the base of the beautiful Glasshouse Mountains…

MAGIC MERIMBULA

This is the most popular package on the Sapphire Coast, It gets booked out early – don’t miss out • 4 days golf playing at the beautiful Sapphire Coast courses of Pambula/Merimbula, Tathra Beach, Eden, Bega and Tura Beach. All courses are only 5 to 20 mins drive from the Resort • 6 nights accommodation in a 2 & 3 bedroom fully self contained apartment (linen supplied) • 6 FREE fully cooked poolside breakfasts, buffet style • Free use of resort facilities, indoor gas heated pool, sauna & spa, full size tennis court, BBQ area and outdoor pool • Large Groups welcome

Packages starting from:

$489* per person/2 share $399* per person/3 share $379* per person/4 share

Cnr Dunns Lane & Arthur Kaine Dr, Merimbula NSW

8 month membership only

$385

No nomination fee!

• 18 hole Golf Course • Visitors & Social Players Most Welcome • Timeless Tuesday - Unlimited* Golf for ONLY $25

• $22 Visitor Competition Fee (Wed, Sat & Sun Competitions) • Golf Equipment for Hire & Sale • Fully Licensed Clubhouse • Social Clubs & Corporate Days

Biondi Crescent, Beerwah

Phone Toll Free: 1800 688 881 Email: aquariusresort@netspeed.com.au

beergolf@netaccess.com.au www.beerwahgolfclub.com.au

www.aquarius-resort.com.au

Ph: (07) 5494 0630 Golf Shop (07) 5494 6611

*Conditions apply

*prices include GST

IN

Contact John Carney - “JC” on 0438 581 269 or by email at info@portdouglasgolftours.com.au

Howeston Golf Course

A ROU

S

AY

Play anytime - No waiting

ND

Clubs and other packages available on request.

PL

(Price based on 2 person share. +$20 single person supplement)

For advertising call 1300 GOLF 00

March 2012

76 golfdirectory............................................................................................................................................................................................www.insidegolf.com.au

Bellbird Hotel Traditional Hunter Hospitality

Gol Pack f Spec age ialists

Let us organise your Gold Coast golf tours

Hassle Free TOURS TO SUIT EVERY NE Let us organise your golf packages including airport & course transfers.

Individual/groups & non playing partners catered for.

Golf packages starting from $99pp Golf • Accommodation • Continental breakfast Group bookings of 10 or more welcome, packages start from $140pp

Visit us at www.bellbirdhotel.com.au or call us on (02) 4990 1094 Call us today on 02 8458 9000, email us at info@teed-up.com or visit our website to see all itineraries and pricing.

US OPEN AND PEBBLE BEACH JUNE 10th — 18th 2012

THE BRITISH OPEN JULY 9th — 23rd 2012

Experience Pebble Beach Golf Course before moving on to San Francisco where you will watch the world best golfers battle it out at the US Open at the Olympic Golf Club. Fully escorted by PGA Professional Michael Mosher.

We have produced a real “bucket list” golf tour. Play 9 games of golf including 7 of the British Open host courses. Start with St.Andrews Old and Castle courses followed by Carnoustie, Kingsbairn, Muirfield, Turnberry, Troon, Birkdale and Royal Liverpool. Finish the tour watching the British Open at Royal Lytham St. Annes.

WWW.TEED-UP.COM

1300 26 20 55 For more information go to

www.golfaccom.com.au

All Enquiries/Quotes Welcome

info@golfaccom.com.au

Port Stephens Getaways

per d

Golf & Accommodation…from only ✓ Play any day & with any number of people! ✓ Play Horizons, Nelson Bay, Newcastle, Muree, Tanilba, Cypress Lakes, Pacific Dunes, The Vintage, by boat to Hawks Nest & others.

0

$7 From ay

16 Golf courses!

Port Stephens Golfing Holidays

✓ Golf and accommodation from a choice of motels, hotels, units & resorts.

2b Tuna Crescent, Fingal Bay NSW 2315 Phone/Fax: (02) 4984 9618 Mobile: 0428 820 477 Email: fosterpj@bigpond.net.au www.psgh.com.au

✓ Established in 1996

Australia’s ULTIMATE stay & play package

PACKAGE FOR TWO PEOPLE INCLUDES: • Two nights accommodation • Full buffet breakfast both mornings • 18 holes of golf at Country Club Tasmania • 18 holes of golf at Barnbougle Lost Farm or Barnbougle Dunes • Luxury road transfers to/from Barnbougle Lost Farm or Barnbougle Dunes Golf Course

from$431

per person twin share*

*Conditions apply. Subject to availability. Offer valid until 30/09/2012.

For bookings call 1800 635 344 and quote GS090 | www.countryclubtasmania.com.au For advertising call 1300 GOLF 00

4 Wheel Version

$229 SHK312

O N L Y

AVAILABLE IN: Metallic Silver Metallic Blue Metallic Red Black Lime

T A K E S

1 SECOND TO OPEN AND CLOSE

Ì New spring front wheel Ì Patent pending push button fold

3 Wheel Version

$199

Ì Brake design Ì Precision ground bearings Ì Umbrella, scorecard and drink holders

SHK311

AVAILABLE IN: Black Metallic Silver

INTRODUCING THE R E V O L U T I O N A RY N E W

‘Proudly Distributed by Sporte Leisure!’

ATTACK THE COURSE CLUBS | BALLS | BAGS | BUGGIES | ACCESSORIES

For more information call 02 9667 5700 or visit our website www.sharkgolf.com.au

FI T T ING FORM 11-12 0 B ALL M O D E L

NIKE 20XI-S

AV G . D R I V E R S P I N

2145 RPM

A V G . PW PW SPIN

A V G . T O TA L D R IV I V E R D I S TA N C E

9935 RPM

300.6 YDS

S P I N S L O P E C O M PA R I S O N

AROUND THE GREEN

99 RPM (AVG VG. G.) MORE SPIN FOR ENHANCED CONTROL.

OFF THE TEE

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N

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SPIN (RPM)

O

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TO

NI

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20

XI

+

203 RPM (AVG VG.) LESS SPIN RESULTING IN LONG GER DRIVES.

PW DRIVER

C O R E D E N S I T Y C O M PA R I S O N

1 . R Z N - C O R E 2 . C O M P R E S S I O N L AY E R 3 . MA M A N T L E 4 . U R E T HA HANE COVER

DENSITY

0 . 9 5 g •c m 3 0.

0.9

MOI

1 . 2 0 g •c m 3 1.

RUBBER CORE

RZN-CORE

RUBBER CORE: 80g • cm 2 RZN-CORE: 84g • cm 2

LIGH GHT HTER, LOW-DENSITY RZNH N-CORE DISTRIBUTES WEIGHT TO PERIMETER, INCREASING BALL LL MOI. H HIIGH HER BALL LL MOI MAINTAINS SPIN AFTER APEX, ADDING YARDS AND MINIM MIIZING TRAVEL OFFFF LINE.

B A LL LL CHARACTERISTICS

REVOLUTIONARY DISTANCE FASTER INITIAL VELOCITY TY FOR MAXIMUM DISTANCE.

R E V O L U T I O N A RY C O R E LIGH GHTER RZN-CORE YIELDS HIG GH HEST LEVELS OF MOI FOR LONGER, MORE CONTROLLED SHOTS.

R E V O L U T I O N A RY C O N S T R U C T I O N NEW EW MATERIALS ALLOW MORE PRECISE MANUFACTURING PROCESSES FOR MORE CONSISTENCY, BALL TO BALL.

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