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I received a phone call the other day from a very frustrated junior golfer. “Why do members hate us juniors so much?” he asked. I was taken aback for a moment, as I pondered this rather unexpected question. It turns out that the club where he recently took up a junior membership had begun restricting the availability of tee times for juniors, making it extremely difficult for him and other junior members to get on the course, especially on weekends. When he did get on the course, many of the older members would turn up their noses to the juniors, or roll their eyes at the group, etc. In general, he told me, it wasn’t a very welcoming atmosphere. “We just want to learn the game, and have fun,” he said. “It’s not like we are making trouble, or anything. We play by the rules, repair our divots and wave people through. But they [older members] still frown at us.” That same week, I was playing golf at a public course with a mate of mine, when we came across a lone woman golfer sitting at a teebox, waiting to hit. There was a bit of a backup ahead, as a few groups in front of us (all men, by the way) were all playing extremely slowly. She immediately suggested that my partner and I play through. When I offered that we might as well join up and play together, she smiled politely but declined. “I’m just getting into the game,” she said in a rather embarrassed tone. “I just joined at [a private club] and I need to get better before I play with anyone. I don’t want to make anyone upset.” (Her swing, I discovered later, was FAR better than any of the players in front of us. She was also a very quick and capable player.) Is this really happening? In this day and age? Are club members still so
entrenched in old-fashioned ideals that we don’t welcome anyone and everyone keen to take up this fantastic game of ours? Are we really alienating women and junior golfers? Let me make one thing abundantly clear: Women and junior golfers are THE future of golf. Plain and simple. Without them, a club simply cannot survive in the modern world. As the product of an extremely supportive American-based junior golf program, I am continually puzzled (and disgusted at times) about the lack of real support that many Australian golfers afford to today’s young players. Sure, many club websites and brochures claim to welcome juniors with open arms, but when it comes right down to it, it is the members themselves who are responsible to roll out the welcome mat. With a strong junior membership or contingent, a club can look forward to decades of revenues, income and future membership numbers. Likewise, women represent the fastest-growing segment in golf. You’ll see more and more products and services (and clubs) targeting women and junior golfers in the near future. There is a reason why: they are the future. Junior golf in Australia has endured its share of ups and downs. Years ago, Greg Norman captured the hearts and dreams of Australia’s juniors, catapulting golf to the top-of-mind for many of our youngsters. The rise in interest – combined with strong support by clubs — led to players like Adam Scott, Jason Day and Aaron Baddeley climbing up the ranks to take the world stage. Not coincidentally, club membership following that time was strong and healthy. But then junior golf faltered for a while. Increased competition from other sports like Cricket, AFL, Tennis and Swimming—in addition to things like video games and other “cool” activities— have led to a gentle decline in junior participation numbers. And, not coincidentally, club numbers (in general) have also followed that decline. Yes, there have been other factors at play. But at the end of the day, juniors
and women golfers are a critical part of golf, and they need to be welcomed to the course with wide open arms. So the next time you see a junior or woman (or any beginner, for that matter) teeing off in front of you, remember that he or she may be the next Adam Scott or Karrie Webb— and that they hold the key to the future health of your club, and of Australian golf in general. •
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news
Juniors the future
Stone the crows CROWS are proving a real menace on many golf courses around the country. One Townsville Golf Club member told Inside Golf crows had “pinched” most of his golf balls. “I went to the range with 100 practice golf balls and crows picked up 64 of those,” he said. “The same thing happens on the golf course – it’s a real problem for golfers.” Wayne Bosley from Boz Golf Australia said crows were attracted to golf balls. “Crows are intelligent birds and they like interacting with people, particularly when they are young,” said Bosley, whose company manufacturers the popular Vision UV yellow Ezy2See and Ezy2Find golf balls. “On the golf course, it’s almost as if they are playing chicken with people. “When they are on a golf course they don’t take over the whole course. They are territorial and usually have a few holes they work on. “They really like golf balls and they see the fun in it and as an acquired activity – not for food.” According to Bosley, crows will take the golf balls and hide them in a safe place. “Then, at a later stage, they will pick them up from there and bury them because when you bury stuff it decays,” he said. “They still pull them apart even though they never find anything that’s edible. “A lot of clubs are having a problem.” Bosley said his company was working on a solution to the problem. “We have been playing around with a lacquer on the golf balls to see if we can introduce a flavour or a smell that will dissuade crows from picking up golf balls.” •
Lydia Ko is resisting the urge to turn professional (Photo: Steve Gibbons/USGA)
Why turn professional? AFTER winning the $2m Canadian Women’s Open on the US LPGA Tour, 15-year-old Kiwi sensation Lydia Ko is keeping her feet firmly on the amateur side of the fence. The teenager says she has no intentions of joining the play-for-pay ranks until after she has completed her education. She also wants to go to Stanford University where Tiger Woods studied. Former top amateur golfer Anne AlletsonBrown believes the youngster is pulling the right rein. “She should stay in the amateur ranks,” she said. “I read an article the other day that the NZ
Costly drive for hoon
IN July, Inside Golf reported hoons had driven onto Emerald Golf Club in Queensland’s Central Highlands causing considerable damage. Well, the law caught up with the culprit and he had his day in court. It proved a costly exercise as the magistrate slapped him with an order to pay more than $25,000 in damages and fines for ripping up fairways and greens. Earlier club president Stewy Euston reported the offenders had done burnouts and donuts on
Golf Association has between $40,000 to $50,000 to spend on her to go and play golf tournaments. “Why would she turn pro? “ The first time I made a state team I was working in the bank in Brisbane. I had to take a week’s holiday to play in the state championship to earn a place in the state team. “And because it was a two-week trip away I had to take my second week without pay to go and play for my state. “That’s where there’s been a big change in the amateur ranks.” • the second, fourth, fifth and sixth greens and the second, fourth, sixth, 10th and 18th fairways. Police investigators proved their case in court after matching the tyre treads on the golf course to the offender’s car and found bolt cutters used to access the course in his car. At the time, the offender was extremely remorseful and wanted to apologise to the club and members but president Stewy thought it wasn’t a good idea because the “members are pretty angry right now”. •
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AAA-RATED teaching professional and businessperson Steve Aisbett is adamant children are the future. Aisbett, who owns and operates the brand-new state-of-the-art Thornleigh Golf Centre in Sydney, says he has always understood the importance of driving junior golf. “When I was out in the bush (Dubbo) I was teaching kids and going out to clubs in the area promoting golf,” he said. “I have got about 10 kids who are professionals now who were juniors from Dubbo. That’s not bad for a town of 40,000. “When I came back to Sydney I did a bit of work at one club and they have no juniors and have never produced a decent player. “You have got to get the kids playing golf by going into the schools.” Aisbett said Thornleigh Golf Centre’s seven teaching professionals were heavily promoting junior golf. “I hope in six or eight years we can produce another Adam Scott,” he said. “We have got a lot of kids coming through our systems. As they improve, they will move up the line with like-minded groups. “Kids develop when they are in a group competing against each other. “No kid likes it when little Johnny is beating him every week so he practices hard and you need that competition to come through.” •
CORRECTION: David’s 80 – not 83 IT’S hard to get good help. Last month, we allowed Brian Eagle to pen a story about grass expert David Barr under the headline, Cut the grass, Barr the cost. Well, Eagle, from now on known as Bogey, suggested David Barr was 83 years old. Wrong. David was quick to point out that he is indeed three years younger than 83. “I am only 80 – ONLY 80,” the octogenarian wrote in his email. Still, David did enjoy reading about all the nice things Eagle, sorry Bogey, wrote about him. “I’ll try to get my ego under control,” David said. •
news
Unsolved ‘91 murder prompts NSW Police call to golfers New South Wales Police are conducting inquiries into the 1991 murder of Penny Hill. Penny, then 20 years of age, was found on the side of the Cassilis Rd (approx. 800m from Coolah) on Monday morning the 8th July. She had been seriously assaulted, and died two weeks later. Penny had only arrived in Coolah on the Friday to take up a nanny position at the local motel. On that weekend the ‘Coolah Sandgreens Classic’ was held at the Coolah Golf Club. Professional and amateur golfers from around Australia attended the tournament. Pol i c e are atte mpt i ng to i nte r v i e w every golfer who attended Coolah that weekend. “These golfers are not suspects,” says Jason Darcy, Detective Sergeant. “But we are attempting to establish the names of everyone in Coolah on that weekend,” he added. Golfers that have attended the Coolah Sandgreens Classic in the early nineties (‘90 to ‘92), are urged to contact Mr. Darcy on 02 6760 0261, or 0458 011 036. •
Aunty faux pas
LISTENING to ABC radio, a listener thought he heard the news presenter say Rob McIlroy was in a tie for the first round lead at the BMW Championship. An hour later, he heard Rory McIlroy was in a tie for the lead with Graham DeLaet, Webb Simpson and … wait for it … Bo van der Pelt. Not sure if Bo Van Pelt would like ‘der’ added to his surname. •
Aussies battle at Australian World Amateur Queensland’s Daniel Nisbet (Caboolture) and Cameron Smith (Royal Queensland) have been named in the Australian Men’s World Amateur team, competing for the Eisenhower Trophy. The Championships will be played through 10 October at Gloria, Antalya and Cornelia Golf Clubs in Antalya, Turkey. Nisbet and Smith are joined in the team by Matthew Stieger (New South Wales) and will be coached by Golf Queensland’s Head Coach, Tony Meyer, with Brad James as Manager. “It is fantastic for Queensland golf that we have two players selected to play in the Australian Team for the World Amateur”, Meyer says. “I am extremely excited to be part of the team travelling to Turkey and am looking forward to assisting the Australian Team to play at their best throughout the event”. Meyer is an AAA Australian PGA member, has been the Queensland Women’s Coach and on the Queensland Golf Coaching Panel since 2009. In 2010, he was awarded the Queensland PGA Teaching Professional of the Year. Nisbet won the Players Amateur Championship in South Carolina in July and won the Lake Macquarie Amateur earlier in the year. He was runner-up at the Australian Amateur Championship in January. Smith is a former Australian Junior and Australian Men’s Stroke Play champion and finished runner-up to Nisbet at the Lake Macquarie Amateur and recorded a top 4 finish at the Porter Cup in the United States. The women’s Espirito Santo Trophy team is Breanna Elliott (Victoria), Whitney Hillier (Western Australia) and Min Jee Lee (Western Australia). The women’s team coach will be Shani Waugh (Western Australia) and Matt Cutler will be the women’s Team Manager. Organised by the International Golf Federation, teams of men and women come from all over the
Golf Queensland’s Head Coach, Tony Meyer world to compete for the Eisenhower Trophy (men) and Espirito Santo Trophy (women) within three different zones: Asia Pacific, America and Europe & Africa. Each team has two or three players and plays 18 holes of stroke play for four days. In each round, the total of the two lowest scores from each team constitutes the team score for the round. The four-day (72-hole) total is the team’s score for the championship. •
NSW Open cancelled for 2012 The Board of Golf NSW announced last month that the Men’s NSW Open is financially unsustainable, due to a lack of sponsorship support for the event in recent years. Accordingly the event has been cancelled for 2012. Efforts will continue to be explored for future years, but this will depend on securing financial support from prospective sponsorship partners. •
Last chance at Brookwater THERE is only one chance left to enter the 2012 Emirates Golf Challenge at Brookwater Golf and Country Club near Brisbane. The club hosted the first qualifying Emirates Golf Challenge event in June with the remaining qualifying event on Thursday, November 15. Men and women with Golf Australia handicaps will compete in teams of two, with the top 15 teams from each qualifying event going through to the final event to be held on Thursday, December 6. A range of prizes will be on offer at each qualifying event, including two economy class tickets to New Zealand, Apple iPads and much more. All participants who enter the qualifying events are eligible to go into the draw to win the grand prize of two business-class tickets to Europe. The entry fee is $198 per team of two players. Brookwater GCC general manager Warren Seeto said the Emirates Golf Challenge was exclusive to the club and was one of the year’s most highlyanticipated golfing events. “The Emirates Golf Challenge gives people the opportunity to play in teams of two on Queensland’s number one course,” he said. “You don’t have to be a single handicap player to place well in this event.” For more information, telephone Brookwater GCC on (07) 3814 5500. •
Keep up with us online! Catch the latest golf news 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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news
PGA announces staff appointments Following the resignation of Anthony Wright, the PGA of Australia announced last month that Nick Thornton has accepted the position of General Manager - Commercial and Marketing. Having joined the PGA in 2009, Nick has worked alongside many PGA Professionals whilst delivering PGA services across Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania in the role of Southern Division Executive Officer. A graduate of Griffith University’s Business Degree with a major in Professional Golf Management, Nick was previously employed as General Manager of the Sandhurst Club. Nick has also served on the Executive of Golf Management Victoria and as a Director of Golf Management Australia, with his comprehensive understanding of both PGA Professionals and the industry set to significantly benefit the Commercial team and the wider Membership. Nick’s acceptance of this role left an opening, with the PGA also pleased to announce that Geoff Stewart has been appointed to the role of Southern Division Executive Officer. Having worked as the PGA’s National Training Manager for the last five years, Geoff is well-known to many in the industry. A current Australian and former Canadian PGA Professional, prior to working with the PGA Geoff held key positions as a Club Professional and Teaching Professional at a number of facilities in Canada. Geoff has a real passion for both the industry and the PGA, and is now looking forward to working with the Southern Division Membership to improve services and opportunities. •
CAPTION: The Cut’s “softer” 6th hole makes it easier to find a “pulled” ball
Stuart Fraser
The Cut softens tough holes
previously ended up in the fairway bunker on the 8th hole will now have more chance of missing the bunker entirely. A drive high on either side of the “saddle” on the 17th will now roll down on to the fairway, eliminating the chance of being in the greenside bunker. Such changes can make a big difference to a golf scorecard and to how many balls are lost in a round of golf. Golfers can view other improvements to playability of the course that are being proposed on a map in the Golf Shop. The new Director of Golf, PGA professional and golf teacher, James Harris, is very keen to see the changes instituted. “We are here to meet and exceed the expectations of our customers and give them a sensational golf experience,” Harriss said. “I am very confident that the changes we are making will make all golfers enjoy their round of golf here that little bit more. It is a magic golf course that is only getting better.” For more information: www.the-cut.com.au •
WESTERN Australia’s The Cut has embarked on a program of changes to soften a number of the course’s more difficult golf holes, while maintaining the character of the course originally designed by James Wilcher. Regularly rated among Australia’s top golf courses, The Cut is a spectacular and challenging course, with ocean views on most holes. But for many golfers—especially the higher handicappers, some of the holes were overly difficult, causing much frustration. In response to golfer comments over the years, the program of changes to The New Cut include removing some bunkers (replacing them with shallower grass bunkers), creating pot bunkers in true links-style from existing bunkers, and removing noxious weeds and non-indigenous species of plants in the rough to make finding wayward balls a little easier. Balls driven a little left on the 6th hole or too right on the 10th, for example, will now be found more easily. A good drive that may have
Golf NSW appoints new CEO After eight years as CEO of Castle Hill Country Club, Stuart Fraser has been appointed the new CEO of Golf NSW. “We are very pleased Stuart has agreed to join us,” said Chairman of Golf NSW, Chris Allen. “He will assume the CEO position Monday, October 1st, [following] a one week handover period from retiring CEO, Greg Mills” he said. Fraser has a distinguished golf administration career behind him including quite a number of years with the PGA and he also holds executive roles with Golf Management Australia, both in NSW as well as nationally. A capable golfer in his own right, Fraser will continue the momentum created following the amalgamation of the NSW Golf Association and Women’s Golf NSW to form Golf NSW in 2010. www.golfnsw.org •
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New programmes for juniors, ladies at Lakelands The David Nable Golf Academy at Lakelands Golf Club recently welcomed new teaching professional (and AAA rated PGA member) Daniel Waters, who will run adult clinics, ladies clinics and the junior golf program. Formerly Golf Australia’s Junior Coordinator, Daniel has operated the largest junior program in Australia. In 2010 he was awarded the Walkerden award for services to junior golf. He is passionate about the game and assisting children to improve and enjoy their golf, so he is a fantastic addition to the Lakelands/ Nable team. The Lakelands ten-week junior program is designed to cover all aspects of the game— from putting through to driving—and uses well-structured sessions that promote skill development in a fun and safe environment. The term includes a video assessment, on course sessions, ‘bring a friend’ weeks, skills tests and report cards. Each session includes a golf warm up activity and is conducted in a safe and friendly environment. For ladies, the Lakeland’s Ladies Coffee Club helps improve your golf game within a relaxed and social environment, followed by a coffee each week. Clinics cover putting, chipping, pitching, bunkers, irons, and woods. A new group begins on the first Monday of each month and runs for four weeks. Classes run from 10am-11.30am, with class sizes of 2–6 students to allow for quality instruction time. Price: $179 for 4 x 1½ hr clinics and a coffee each week. For more information on these programs, phone Daniel on 0431 952 050 or email dwaters@davidnablegolf.com.au •
Collaboration the key to PGA IGI’s success
Jack Wilson
Kingswood’s Wilson wins at Hawks Nest Victorian Jack Wilson has taken out the NSW/ACT PGA Trainee Championships in sensational fashion, recording consecutive birdies on his final two holes to claim the trophy by two strokes. Wilson began the day two shots clear of New South Welshman Bradley Wilson. He quickly opened up a four stroke lead thanks to three birdies in his opening six holes. As the remainder of the field seemed to be going backwards, Wilson continued to scramble for pars through the middle of his round and looked to have one hand on the trophy. In the penultimate group, fellow Victorian Anthony Smith was working his way into contention and quickly picked up three shots and a share of the lead when Smith birdied and Wilson double bogeyed the par-five fourteenth. Wilson quickly composed himself, recording pars at 15 and 16 before stepping up under
pressure to secure the win with two birdies on 17 and 18. “It was a real pleasure playing here this week. The course was fantastic, as was the local support. Playing in front of a gallery makes it all the more special” Wilson said. Wilson is in his second year of his PGA Traineeship at Kingswood Golf Club in Victoria, and is building a solid playing record having won the Victorian Amateur Championship prior to turning professional in 2010, claiming the Rich River Classic in 2011 and now the NSW/ACT Trainee Championship in 2012. Toronto Trainee Professional Clayton Bridges finished in equal third position on three over par after a final round of one over par 73. The 2012 Championship was the fifth consecutive year Hawks Nest Golf Club has hosted the event and will again be the host of the 2013 tournament. •
THE PGA International Golf Institute (PGA IGI) is a success story of which the golf industry should be proud. Committed to retaining talented people within the industry, PGA IGI aims to prepare its students for a lucrative career in golf by offering a holistic education program, combining a curriculum of business management and practical golf skills. Student outcomes are broad, and include graduates successfully becoming Professional golfers or golf coaches, or taking up careers in golf operations, marketing or golf management. The PGA IGI team has exceptional experience in delivering education and strives to not only educate its clients, but also assist them in obtaining their desired careers. With an unparalleled network of industry partners and contacts, students have access to some of the most desirable career opportunities around the world. Importantly, training is conducted by key industry experts from each field of study and incorporates Golf Management Australia (GMAQ) – Aaron Muirhead, AGCSA – Paul McLean, Golf Queensland – Luke Bates and Lindsay Ellis, PGA – Brock Greenhalgh and PGA IGI – Mike Levick. These networks and industry partners collaborate to ensure that the strength of the golf industry is maintained and relevant, current industry information is delivered to students at all times. Some of PGA IGI’s industry partners include Griffith University, Golf Industry Central (Mike Orloff), Acushnet, Troon Golf, Sanctuary Cove Golf & Country Club and Micropower. This is an industry working together to improve golf and to develop the careers of future golf industry professionals. Anyone interested in a career in the golf industry and more information on the opportunities provided by the PGA IGI, phone Josh Madden on (07) 5657 6100 or email jmadden@pga.org.au •
www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
9
news Brisbane GC offer new Junior, Transition memberships RELEVANCE, flexibility and the desire to create a pathway from junior participation to full membership are features of a number of new membership categories introduced by The Brisbane Golf Club. Current and prospective club members can now take advantage of two new junior membership categories, and a transition category based on four separate age groups. The club’s president John Caris said the creation of the new categories offered a modern membership package relevant to the current golf participation market. “The Brisbane Golf Club is always looking to adapt our membership products and services to the requirements of current and potential members,” he said. “Over the past decade we have seen a steady decline in club membership throughout Australia, so it is essential that we are able to offer membership that caters for all levels of participation. “Most importantly these memberships provide a clear pathway from junior participation through to full membership,” he said. Junior golfers can now take advantage of two distinct membership categories, Pathway (4 to 12 years) and Full Junior (13-17 years).
With both categories featuring weekly scheduled clinics, junior players are also able to hone their developing skills on-course, with Pathway members participating in four-hole competitions on Saturday afternoons and Full Junior members now having their own 18-hole competition every Sunday. The new Transition categories are spread across fours age groups – 18 to 20 years, 21 to 24, 25 to 28 and 29 to 30 – with membership rates being scaled across each age group. All Transition players can enjoy unlimited access to club facilities, with the provision for restricted booking availability for the traditionally busy Wednesday and Saturday tee-times. Transition members can request to transfer to full membership at any time. Over the past two months, The Brisbane Golf Club has welcomed more than 60 new players as a result of an internal membership promotion available to immediate family of existing members. Last month, the club has also launched a public membership promotion, where groups of two, three or four players who join the club together as new members can enjoy savings of up to 85 per cent on the club’s existing joining fees. For details of all membership categories, visit www.brisbanegolfclub.com.au •
North East wins by a whisker The Murray District versus North East Golf Challenge at Corowa last month was a closely contested event. On the Saturday morning, the 4BBB matches were close, with the MDGA holding sway by 4 to 3. Saturday afternoon saw North East applying the blowtorch in the Foursomes and clearly taking the points with 5 wins to 2. Leading 8 to 6, North East had the upper hand coming into the single matches on Sunday and the MDGA players knew they had some ground to make up.
However, despite some outstanding efforts by the MDGA players, the score was 6½ to 6½ at the end of the day, resulting in a final score of 14½ to 12½ in favour of the North East. The event was played in a great sportsmanlike manner and North East were deserving winners. All players commented on the great presentation of the golf course, given the recent rain, and the hospitality shown by the Corowa Golf Club was much appreciated. •
Members of the Sanctuary Cove Golf Club
Senior Club Teams Challenge The Sanctuary Cove Golf Club have won the 2012 Senior Club Teams Challenge, defeating Gailes Golf Club eight to four on Aggregate in the teams Match Play Format. Sanctuary Cove got off to an impressive start defeating Ipswich Golf Club 4½ to 1½ in the first elimination final at Sanctuary Cove. In the following week, Ipswich rallied in the second match of the elimination final to defeat sanctuary cove 3½ to 2½, but it wasn’t enough with Sanctuary Cove progressing through to the final winning seven match to five on aggregate. Sanctuary Cove managed to secure their place in the Grand Final; with form from the Elimination Final still on their side they defeated Gailes in the first Grad Final match at Sanctuary Cove five matches to one. After the disappointing loss, Gailes had left themselves with a difficult task having to defeat Sanctuary Cove Six matches to nil, but it wasn’t
over as Gailes would have the home advantage to try and turn the tables their way. After some promising match scores after the first few holes, Gailes was out to prove that they weren’t going down without a fight. But it wasn’t to be, with the final scores resulting in three matches each and handing the 2012 Senior Club Teams Challenge to Sanctuary Cove Golf Club. Congratulations go to the 2012 Senior Club Teams Champions- Jeff Davey, Masa Terashima, John Hodgetts, Des Brennan, Dennis Amundsen, Bill Perske, Bruce Spencer and Barry Ridden(c). Sanctuary Cove has won the event on two other occasions, in 2006 & 2008. Congratulations must also go to both team captains Mal Jackson (Gailes) & Barry Ridden (Sanctuary Cove) as well as all the other clubs who participated in this year’s Senior Club Teams Challenge Series. •
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Big names heading down under this summer Last month, a wave of announcements hit the newswire, with some of golf ’s top names confirming that they were headed to our shores this summer. The announcements were fast and furious, with players like Tom Watson, Charl Schwartzel, Jason Dufner, Ian Poulter and Graeme McDowell all set to join top Aussies like Adam Scott, Greg Chalmers and Geoff Ogilvy in our upcoming Summer of Golf. The excitement kicks off this month with Schwartzel and Dufner competing in the Perth International at Lake Karrinyup Country Club, from October 18-21. Schwartzel has won seven times on The European Tour, including a 2011 victory at Augusta National, where he became the first player in history to birdie the final four holes to win the coveted Green Jacket. The 27-year-old South African will look to emulate the feats of his fellow countrymen Gary Player, Ernie Els and Retief Goosen, who are all past champions at Lake Karrinyup. “It has been a while since I was down in Australia for a Tour event,” Schwartzel said. “I have always enjoyed the people and the culture there and the great sporting rivalry between our countries in cricket and rugby. Hopefully I can continue the South African success at Lake Karrinyup.” Dufner was runner-up at the 2011 US PGA Championship and has enjoyed a stellar 2012 season with seven top-10 finishes, highlighted by wins at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans and HP Byron Nelson Championship. “I have a real affinity for Australia and have heard a lot of great things about Perth and Western Australia,” said Dufner. “I am excited to have the opportunity to play in Western
Australia for the first time and hope the community will really support this new event.” The following month will see fans flock to The Australian Masters, held at Kingston Heath Golf Club from 15-18 November. Australian #1 Adam Scott will be joined by 2010 US Open Champion Graeme McDowell and defending Champion Ian Poulter. “I’m delighted to be returning to play the Melbourne sand belt, and specifically the Australian Masters at Kingston Heath, said Scott. “It will be a great week and it’s fantastic to see top class International players like Poults and Graeme in the field. I’m sure we will see
massive crowds and a fantastic tournament.” Poulter was equally happy to mark his Aussie return. “I am delighted to return to Melbourne to defend my title,” says Poulter. “I have heard a lot of great things about Kingston Heath. I am already looking forward to returning to the sandbelt,” he added. For McDowell, this marks his first appearance at the Australian Masters and his first in Australia in seven years. “It has been a while since I last played in Australia and I have been desperate to get back down there ever since! It’s such a beautiful
country with great golf courses, great people and lovely weather,” he said. Finally, this year’s Emirates Australian Open at The Lakes Golf Club (6-9 December), will see eight-time Major champion Tom Watson join Geoff Ogilvy, Greg Chalmers and Adam Scott to contest our national championship Watson returns to the Australian Open for the first time in nearly 30 years. He won the Australian Open in 1984 and holds five Open Championships, two U.S. Masters and the U.S. Open titles in an illustrious Major collection. Chalmers and Ogilvy return to The Lakes looking to repeat their recent successes, with Chalmers hunting a third Stonehaven Cup following his thrilling one-stroke win over John Senden in 2011. Golf Australia CEO Stephen Pitt said the field was coming together very well and would have some real attractions for golf fans. “It’s fantastic to welcome back these four past winners of the Stonehaven Cup to the Emirates Australian Open. Tom is one of the household names in world golf and we can’t wait to have him, Adam, Geoff and defending champion Greg back in action at The Lakes,” Pitt said. “It’s the pinnacle week in Australian golf and things are continuing to shape up really well for the Championship.” Pitt said there would be further player announcements as the countdown to the Championship continued. For updates and announcements regarding all the events in our Summer of Golf, please visit our website: www.insidegolf.com.au, follow us on Twitter (@insidegolf), or on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/insidegolf. •
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industry news
Eastern Golf Club receives long-awaited planning approval After nearly two years of setbacks and challenges through VCAT and council, Melbourne’s The Eastern Golf Club is one step closer to relocation, as the Club finally received approval for their development plans for the proposed new site at Yering in the Yarra Valley. Yarra Ranges Council last month voted in favour of the proposal, with seven Councillors voting in favour of the application, with only two voting against. In a letter to Members, the EGC Board reported that “Supporting Councillors spoke positively and highlighted the benefits the proposal would bring to the entire region, including significant environmental improvements. National and International tourism opportunities were also highlighted through the addition of a worldclass Greg Norman-designed golf course, further enhancing the region’s reputation to rival that of the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas.” The Club proposes to invest $49 million building the new facility, creating hundreds of jobs during construction and an additional 35 permanent jobs upon completion. The 600 acre site with gentle rolling hills will have an 11 hectare wetland system created and 400,000 plantings with 95% indigenous species. The 27-hole golf course will see the implementation of a 30m riparian buffer to the Yarra River and use over 150 mega litres of Class B recycled water that is currently disposed of into Olinda Creek that in turn flows into the Yarra River. Central to addressing the environmental matters, the Club completed an extensive quantitative human health and ecological risk assessment as part of the application, believed to be an Australian first for the golf industry. This assessment was subjected to incredible rigour of review by Melbourne Water with peer reviews conducted by Australia’s leading consultants and academics as well as arguably the world’s leading academic on pesticides.
Eastern GC’s new site at Yering in the Yarra Valley Club General Manager, Benjamin Telley said “This is obviously a great outcome for the Club, but also it represents a great achievement for environmental planning and environmental management as we believe a new benchmark has been set”. The Club hopes other developments in the future will choose to follow suit. Last month’s proposal received one formal objection from a developer, Bill Boerkamp whose case appeared to be based on planning issues previously unsupported by VCAT. A late objection was also received from Anthony Amis of Friends of the Earth, although, according to Telley, it appeared based little on any facts or evidence. “For Mr Amis to suggest that we would likely use pesticides other than those approved, is completely inappropriate and a cheap scare tactic that demonstrates a complete lack of respect to the intelligence of the broader community and to the authorities involved in assessing planning applications.” Mr Telley said. “It is unfortunate that Friends of the Earth sought not to understand the work that has been undertaken and to be informed
despite repeated offers by the Club”. The Club, voted 2011 ‘Club of the Year’ by Clubs Victoria, will wait to see whether the decision is appealed at VCAT before commencing construction, which could begin as early as early 2013 if no objections are raised. Last year, the Club’s relocation project hit numerous stumbling blocks by VCAT due to concerns regarding floodplains and pesticides. The Club then filed a revised masterplan in October which included modifications to the carpark and maintenance facility to comply with 1-in-100-year flood levels, creation of emergency access routes, redesign of a storage dam, and slight adjustments to six of the course’s 27 holes. Eastern’s project team also completed an extensive Tier 2 Assessment of the pesticides and biocides proposed to be used on the golf course and turf farm, as well as a Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment to address the potential impact of pathogens from the subject site. In May 2011, the Club sold their current site of 47 hectares in Doncaster to Mirvac for a yet undisclosed amount. •
Hats ‘on’ to Bonville
Bonville’s Golf Resort’s Flooded Gums Restaurant has become Australia’s first and only Golf Course/Golf Resort to be awarded a highly regarded and sought after ‘Hat’ by the 2013 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide. This achievement by Bonville now places it as the leader in golf course dining. This award comes off the back of being announced as ‘Australia’s Best Golf Resort’ in the 2012 Luxury Travel Magazine Gold List Awards earlier in the year, and a few weeks after being awarded two Goblets (out of a possible three) in the highly regarded Fine Wine Partners Wine List Awards. Bonville is the only property in regional NSW to win two goblets. “The entire Bonville team are ecstatic and extremely proud of being judged a one ‘Hat’ Restaurant in this year’s Guide,” says Bonville’s Brad Daymond. “The Golf Course at Bonville has always been highly awarded and recognised but it is fantastic to see the Restaurant receive this recognition as we have, for the last 10 years, worked on providing an overall experience for our guests.” Daymond also oversees Jonah’s, Whale Beach and is thrilled with them having retained their one ‘Hat’ status. He said that both properties are now outlining plans to further improve as “we don’t want to rest on our laurels.” The Flooded Gums Restaurant is located at Bonville Golf Resort, North Bonville Road (10 mins south of the Coffs Harbour CBD) and is open every night of the year. Bookings and enquires can be made by calling (02) 6653 4002. •
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from the ceos
the world’s top-50 ranked players, were in the Canadian Open field and she played the final round with Stacy Lewis and Jiyai Shin – ranked 2 and 12 respectively. Lydia handled the final group pressure with ease, playing flawless golf, smiling and blushing her way to a final round 5-underpar 67 to cruise to a 3-shot victory. When asked the obvious question about the prizemoney she had to forego, she said “yes, when I won the NSW Open, I said I would really like the money, and this is so much money but I guess there will be opportunities in the future.” Well, the $300,000 first prize in Canada dwarfs the winner’s cheque at the NSW Open but there is no question Lydia will have plenty
of opportunities to line her pockets with cash once she qualifies to play the professional Tours. Opportunities, yes, but guarantees, maybe not? I’m wondering if in three years time there might be twenty or more Lydia Ko’s – young girls inspired by the Lydias and Lexi Thompsons, the teenagers winning on the biggest stages in women’s golf. And will Lydia’s record of youngest winner on the LPGA stand for a long time? Probably not. There is sure to be a younger 15yo or a 13-14yo coming through the system who will take advantage of the same opportunity earned by Lydia, and change the record books yet again. For every Lydia Ko – just one at the moment– there are in excess of 1500 players on the South Korean amateur scene alone, playing on a handicap of scratch or less. Yes, fifteen hundred! Little wonder South Korea continues to win the majority (all) of the major international amateur titles, individual and team. And who knows how many more thousands will be inspired by Lydia’s accomplishment! Consider those Asian players who are emerging through the golf programs in Australia, New Zealand, China and the United States and you can paint a picture. So, is this good for golf? Yes, if it results in more junior girls on golf courses around the world, yes, if it boosts the number of playing opportunities on the women’s professional golf Tours around the world – way less than that of the number of Tours/events for men and yes, if this converts into more sponsorship, government and corporate dollars invested in the game, at all levels. Time will tell but in the meantime, golf fans and administrators will follow the careers of the Lydia Ko’s and note with interest the impact the success of such young players is having on the golf industry from grass roots level through to the top. •
Hughes Geely / Nexus Risk Services WA Open Championship at Royal Perth. Plans for our very own Australian PGA Championship presented by Coca-Cola are also progressing well, with tickets now on sale through Ticketek. With more player announcements expected soon, we are sure our return to Coolum for the 11th consecutive year will again prove popular with fans and players alike. Overall, the 2012 season will provide a great opportunity for golf fans across the country to see our best compete, so be sure to visit www.pga.org.au to see full details of the end of year schedule. Away from tournaments, last month the PGA hosted the Srixon PGA Coaching Summit, our largest professional development opportunity for PGA Professionals. Held every two years
and featuring local and international industry experts, the Summit continues to be an important component of our continuing education program, ensuring our PGA Members remain among the most highly trained the world over. Still on our PGA Professionals, we are currently finalising a new and improved online search to better connect golfers with their local Pro. The new Find a PGA Pro search will be launched in the coming weeks, and will feature in-depth information on each of our Members to help you find the Pro who best suits your game. With summer fast approaching, there’s no better time of year to enjoy golf more often, and by working with your local Professional you will not only increase your confidence on course, but also your enjoyment level. •
Warren Sevil CEO – ALPG
Golf fans will have heard about—or witnessed firsthand via FoxSports coverage—the incredible feat of 15-year-old amateur Lydia Ko, when she stunned the golfing world by winning the LPGA Tour’s CN Canadian Women’s Open in late August. She created a media frenzy, for many obvious reasons, having smashed every age record in the book and raising many questions about the future of women’s golf at all levels. Now, we were all shocked when Lydia created history in winning the ALPG Tour’s Bing Lee Samsung NSW Women’s Open earlier this year, becoming the youngest player ever to win a professional golf tournament. At the time we marvelled at her game, her maturity, her affable personality – all which seemed unbelievable for a 14-year-old. Just one year earlier, she almost did the same thing as a 13-year-old, but for a 3-putt on the final green. At the time of her win in January, we made it clear to the world media that this accomplishment was achieved against a pretty strong field, one which included the likes of Katherine Hull, Laura Davies, Melissa Reid, Lorie Kane and Jessica Korda. In 2012, Lydia has claimed honours as leading amateur at the Women’s Australian Open; Australian Amateur Champion just to name a couple of National level events. Her July/ August stint in the United States netted her leading amateur at the US Women’s Open; the US Amateur title – none bigger than that in amateur golf, and then just to prove she IS the real deal, Lydia led all the way to win one of the LPGA’s biggest events. On the subject of strength of field, 48 of
Brian Thorburn CEO – PGA of Australia
In another busy month, plans are coming together for this year’s PGA Tour of Australasia tournaments. By the time this goes to print, our first end of year tournament, the South Pacific Golf Open Championship will have been run and won, with the Western Australian swing upon us. In 2012 Western Australia will host three weeks of high-quality golf, starting with the WA Goldfields PGA Championship at Kalgoorlie preceding the much anticipated Perth International at Lake Karrinyup, and finishing with the John
Lydia Ko
Stephen Pitt CEO – Golf Australia
No sooner has spring sprung and we’re back talking about another upcoming summer showcase of Australian tournament golf to look forward to and I know people can hardly wait for our best players to come home and play. This year’s Emirates Australian Open will be a special one–a parade of champions–and we recently announced that Adam Scott, Tom Watson, Geoff Ogilvy and defending champion Greg Chalmers are among the early big names to commit to the championship. It’s nearly 30 years since Tom won the Open at Royal Melbourne in 1984. He also returned a year later in 1985 and finished sixth at the same venue. In December at The Lakes will be the first time he’s played in Australia in a decade. Adam Scott, our 2009 champion, returns after a headline year including his heart-stopping runner up finish to Ernie Els at The Open Championship at Royal Lytham & St Annes. By the time you read this there should also be more news of other international players who will be in Sydney and an update on our TV broadcast arrangements for the 2012 championship. Our priority is showcasing the Open to all Australians and we’re pleased to say we’ve achieved a great outcome for all golf and sport fans. While we’re on the topic of Open golf, we recently launched the 2013 ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open in Canberra with ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher and it has all the makings of another terrific event. Again the season opening event on the LPGA Tour, it will be the first time the Women’s Open has come to Canberra and we’re delighted with the excitement and passion we’ve seen from people across Canberra for the championship which will kick off the city’s major centenary celebrations. ISPS will continue for a fourth consecutive year as title sponsor and their support has had an exceptional impact on both the tournament and women’s golf in Australia. As you read this the World Amateur Team Championships should be underway in Turkey with our Australian men’s and women’s teams hoping for great results in the pinnacle teams event in international amateur golf. Australia will be represented by Daniel Nisbet (Qld), Cameron Smith (Qld) and Matthew Stieger (NSW) at the Eisenhower Trophy while Breanna Elliott (Vic), Whitney Hillier (WA) and Min Jee Lee (WA) will represent Australia at the Espirito Santo Trophy. •
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15
industry news
The true role of the Board and committees Mike Orloff
morloff@golfindustrycentral.com.au
Over the past few years, while conducting operational reviews for various clubs and Boards, I’ve seen a recurring theme with many of the traditional membership model clubs, which has gotten me thinking. Do Boards and committees really know what their true roles should be at their club? Golf Clubs still seem to be in a bit of transition from the days of volunteer-managed (i.e. spending some time pouring beers, mowing the lawn (both to save labour costs) and Superintendent reporting directly to Captain etc.) to the more modern structure of a Board only focusing on setting strategic direction, quality control and Governance, and letting the Manager actually run the day-today business. It seems that many still think that being on a Board or Committee is an operational role versus being a strategic one. It’s understandable for some clubs, as they may not have the financial resources to employ a professional manager, but nonetheless we still must have some clarity of roles for all involved. The GM/Secretary Manager/CEO should be the one managing daily operations (i.e. staff and contractors) and would be fully accountable to the Board for the club’s overall performance. In many cases Board Members and committee are still making operational decisions, which really are undermining the entire process. The times are really changing and the structure of clubs needs to be redefined. When we are employed for any job or contract, the first thing we expect is a job description or scope of work document outlining what is expected of us. This practice should also be occurring at all clubs. Do Board members really know what
they are signing up for as a Director of a club and what their responsibility is for governance of the club? If all of them did I think some would have a change in their mindset on how they run their facility and how they undertake their duties. Many possibly wouldn’t take on the serious responsibility that actually comes along with the role. From the reports I’ve been seeing “improved governance” will be a hot topic in the coming years. Do committee members fully understand what the primary objective is for their particular committee, and do they have KPI’s to achieve? If they all did, they wouldn’t be continually interrupting the Manager and administration team with silly requests! A simple Board Orientation at the beginning of each year when new members are voted in should be mandatory, regardless if they have been on the Board previously or not. This would include training on their responsibility, how to conduct meetings, and the actual roles of the Board and Committees.
without really getting into the details of daily operations. The Strategic Plan items also need to become a stationary item for each monthly Board meeting agenda and current status put into the Minutes. There also needs to be outlined clear and measurable goals.
Operational Planning
The Board GM
CEO
Daily Operations
The importance of planning and communication Once the above roles and responsibilities information is accomplished, you can only move forward with a plan of some kind. The Strategic Plan is the main one that the Board should be responsible for creating. The Club Manager is then responsible for the implementation. Planning is the key item that needs to be clearly defined for the entire operation to ever become successful. Does the club all agree on where it wants to go? (I.e. Vision) Do you have clear KPI’s? Clubs without proper documented plans are reactive in nature and will lack the real consistency that is needed to build momentum and growth in the business.
The reporting structure and accountability processes are also vital in this planning. With a plan fully agreed upon and clearly communicated to the entire staff and membership, the rest of the parts of the operation are easily addressed at the management level. Strategic planning should be undertaken by the entire Board along with the General Manager and select others to achieve maximum “buy-in”. It formulates the “big picture” for the entire facility
There seems to be a lack of any real documented planning for the “operation” of many clubs, which would fall upon the responsibility of the Manager. From the Strategic Plan there needs to be an operational or business plan in place that covers all the details of the day-to-day business. Marketing would also be an integral part of this. An operation of any size should have some basic planning documents in place as a way for all parties involved to understand the finer details of what is trying to be achieved each year. These plans are then tied directly to the financial planning being done and concurrently used as a management and accountability tool for each manager and team member to follow. A full year plan should be constructed with a progress report being done as part of each monthly report to the Board. As with any business, a proper structure or foundation is required to propel it forward to becoming a sustainable entity. The first step now for clubs is to agree on the structure and roles, followed by a simple documented plan forward. With these in place you will see some operational improvements straight away. • Mike Orloff specialises in providing golf operations and marketing solutions for all levels of golf facilities and businesses with the major outcomes being in growing revenue and the bottom -line for your facility. www.golfindustrycentral.com.au
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scorecard World Rankings Through 18 September
Griffin victorious at High1 Resort Open
Top 20 Australians 1. Adam Scott (5 in world rankings) 2. Jason Day (30) 3. John Senden (36) 4. Geoff Ogilvy (43) 5. Aaron Baddeley (47) 6. Greg Chalmers (53) 7. Marcus Fraser (71) 8. Marc Leishman (78) 9. Brendan Jones (107) 10. Robert Allenby (132) 11. Kurt Barnes (143) 12. Brad Kennedy (146) 13. Nick O’Hern (215) 14. Brett Rumford (223) 15. Richard Green (234) 16. Rod Pampling (236) 17. Kieran Pratt (307) 18. Cameron Percy (320) 19. Jarrod Lyle (323) 20. Scott Hend (324)
Top 5 World Rankings 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Rory McIlroy (averaged points 12.93) Tiger Woods (9.54) Luke Donald (9.18) Lee Westwood (7.44) Adam Scott (6.43)
Top 20 Rolex World Rankings in Australia 1. Karrie Webb (21 in world) 2. Katherine Hull (58) 3. Lindsey Wright (94) 4. Nikki Campbell (125) 5. Karen Lunn (154) 6. Frances Bondad (172) 7. Stacey Keating (184) 8. Kristie Smith (200) 9. Nikki Garrett (201) 10. Sarah Jane Smith (202) 11. Tamie Durdin (206) 12. Sarah Kemp (231) 13. Bree Arthur (243) 14. Rebecca Artis (249) 15. Rachel Bailey (266) 16. Jessica Speechley (332) 17. Vicky Thomas (335) 18. Stephanie Na (343) 19. Alison Whitaker (381) 20. Julia Boland (383)
Top 5 Rolex Rankings 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Yani Tseng (averaged points 13.97) Stacy Lewis (8.40) Na Yeon Choi (8.38) Shanshan Feng (8.34) Ai Miyazato (7.52)
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
Scoreboards Omega European Masters Pos Ctry
Matthew Griffin (Photo: Paul Lakatos/OneAsia) Australian Matthew Griffin scored the biggest win of his professional career with a onestroke victory at the 2012 Charity High1 Resort Open in Korea’s Gangwon-do province. The 29-year-old Melburnian held his nerve in a topsy-turvy final round for an even-par 72 that gave him a nine-under total of 278 and the winner’s cheque of around U.S. $178,000. Kang Kyung-nam (68) and Park Sang-Hyun (71), both of Korea, pushed Griffin all the way around the hilly 6,542 metre (7,148 yard) High1 Resort Country Club course, which at 1,137 metres ( 3,730 feet) is the highest golf course in Korea. “I am really, really thrilled,” Griffin said after his victory. “This is what I have worked for all my life, so it is absolutely amazing to finally get there.”
Griffin, once ranked the third-best amateur in the world, was a relative latecomer to the professional ranks and only scored his first fourround victory at the South Pacific Open in New Caledonia last year. This win propelled him up the OneAsia Order of Merit and gives him a two year exemption. “This is immense,” said Griffin, a natural lefthander who plays golf right-handed. “It gives me a lot of security and it also repays the faith that my supporters and sponsors have shown in me over the years.” He dedicated his victory to Peter Beck, a friend and mentor who caddied for him occasionally in his amateur and professional days, and who died in 2010. •
Price captures maiden Senior victory Terry Price completed the most dominant victory of the 2012 European Senior Tour season with a final round of five under par 67 to record a stunning six-shot win over Marc Farry and Barry Lane at the Pon Senior Open at Winston Golf. The Australian was simply unstoppable during the final round over the Winston Open course as he secured the first Senior Tour victory of his career and the first place cheque for €60,000. With some of the Senior Tour’s biggest names – among them Lane and Bernhard Langer – starting their own final rounds with a bang, Price could have been forgiven for taking it easy and feeling his way into the final round, which he had begun with a three-stroke cushion. But the 51-year-old went on the attack from the word go, birdieing two of his first three holes to keep plenty of daylight between himself and the chasing pack. He then decided to blow the rest of the field out of the water with a breath-taking run of four consecutive birdies between the ninth and 12th holes to set up a victory stroll over his closing holes as he finished the week on 16 under-par to win by six, and smash Tim Thelen’s previous
Total R1 R2 R3 R4 Strokes
Richie Ramsay
-17 69 68 64 66
267
T2
Fredrik Andersson Hed
-13 65 73 67 66
271
T2
Marcus Fraser
-13 68 68 69 66
271
T2
Romain Wattel
-13 67 70 68 66
271
T2
Danny Willett
-13 67 67 68 69
271
T14
Michael Campbell
-9
70 71 67 67
275
T19
Brett Rumford
-8
71 68 67 70
276
T23
Scott Barr
-7
66 72 71 68
277
T55
Scott Hend
-2
71 70 74 67
282
T71
Marcus Both
3
72 70 72 73
287
CUT
Andrew Dodt
1
67 76
143
CUT
Kieran Pratt
1
69 74
143
CUT
Matthew Zions
4
74 72
146
CUT
Greg Norman
6
75 73
148
CUT
Richard Green
14 79 77
156
KLM Open Pos Ctry
Player
Total R1 R2 R3 R4 Strokes
1
Peter Hanson
-14 66 66 67 67
266
T2
Richie Ramsay
-12 71 66 64 67
268
T2
Pablo Larrazabal
-12 69 65 64 70
268
T12
Marcus Fraser
-7
273
T46
Richard Green
E
69 69 68 74
280
T64
Brett Rumford
4
73 67 73 71
284
CUT
Michael Campbell
4
68 76
144
CUT
Matthew Zions
4
70 74
144
CUT
Andrew Dodt
8
69 79
148
69 68 66 70
BMW Championship Pos Ctry
Player
Total R1 R2 R3 R4 Strokes
1
Rory McIlroy
-20 64 68 69 67
268
T2
Lee Westwood
-18 68 65 68 69
270
T2
Phil Mickelson
-18 69 67 64 70
270
T4
Tiger Woods
-17 65 67 71 68
271
T4
Robert Garrigus
-17 67 69 66 69
271
T6
Adam Scott
-16 68 68 66 70
272
T16
Greg Chalmers
-10 74 70 68 66
278
T28
Geoff Ogilvy
-7
68 71 74 68
281
T56
John Senden
E
70 69 76 73
288
T65
Marc Leishman
4
75 73 71 73
292
RICOH Women’s British Open
Terry Price (Photo: Getty Images) three-stroke winning-margin record of 2012. “It feels great to win,” said Price, who leapt 42 spots on the Senior Tour Order of Merit to move to 21st position. “It means a lot to win out here in a field with players Like Barry Lane and Bernhard Langer in it. Those two guys are among the best Senior players in the world and there are so many other great players out here that it is a really great achievement to come out on top.” •
2012 Worldwide Ball Count
ARE YOU ON - TEAM TITLEIST ANZ? Bubba Watson Pro V1x
Player
1
2012 Worldwide Wins
5,000
44
789
6
Pos Ctry 1
Player Jiyai Shin
Total R1 R2 R3 R4 Strokes -9 71 64 71 73 279
2
Inbee Park
E
72 68 72 76
288
3
Paula Creamer
1
73 72 72 72
289
4
Mika Miyazato
2
71 70 72 77
290
T5
So Yeon Ryu
3
70 74 71 76
291
T5
Karrie Webb
3
71 70 68 82
291
T17
Lydia Ko
9
72 71 76 78
297
T33
Katherine Hull
12 72 72 77 79
300
T43
Sarah Jane Smith
15 74 75 77 77
303
T47
Stephanie Na
16 76 73 78 77
304
CUT
Nikki Garrett
6
74 76
150
CUT
Karen Lunn
8
77 75
152
CUT
Rachel L. Bailey
10 79 75
154
CUT
Rebecca Artis
11 80 75
155
DQ
Stacey Keating
71
71
UNWAVERING TRUST. MAJOR SUCCESS.
Champion Connect 2012 withMasters Titleist product experts, tour pros and fellow brand loyalists. Be the first to receive new product info and announcements. Keep track of your scores and©2012 key Acushnet golf stats. (And more!) Company. Based upon results through 20/4/2012 on the U.S. PGA, U.S. LPGA, Champions, Nationwide, South African, Asian, Korean, OneAsia, Australasian, Japan, Canadian PGA and PGA European Tours. Titleist Customer Service: 1800 660 535
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October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
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women
Anne’s aging gratefully David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au
IN her long and distinguished golf career, Anne Alletson-Brown has broken records, hearts and even a few windows. Like Tiger Woods, Anne first picked up a golf club as a two-year-old and, save for about a decade, has been playing golf with the same enthusiasm as when she started 69 years ago. “My brother found a photo of me with a golf club in my hand when I was two years old,” Anne, 71, said. “I used to get into trouble hitting golf balls through the windows of the house. “Our next door neighbour from that era reminded me a few months ago that I put a ball through his window one day.” That was at Boonah, a pleasant 75-minute drive southwest of Brisbane. Born at Boonah to parents John and Meg Nunn, Anne won the Queensland Junior Championship in 1962 and the State Amateur Championship as Anne Alletson in 1973 and 1976. She was runner-up in 1982 and won the State women’s foursomes with her mother in 1974 and again with Jean Thomas in 1986. In 1973, Anne won the inaugural South Pacific Classic – a tournament she again contested this year. She represented Queensland on and off between 1962 and 1978 and Australia in Tasman Cup and Commonwealth matches from 1974-1976.
In her heyday, Anne broke many opponents’ hearts with her accuracy off the tee and her lethal short game. Her deft touch around the greens and her fine putting skills were something to behold. Earlier this year, Anne was at it again, winning the over-65 division of the Queensland Seniors Championship as Anne AlletsonBrown. That’s not all, last year she won the over-70 Australian Seniors at Toowoomba Golf Club (Middle Ridge). Winning at junior, amateur and senior level is a feat few players ever achieve and a record that will unlikely be equalled again as most of today’s champions turn professional. Anne said she was thrilled to be in the winner’s circle again. “I did surprise myself because when John (Alletson) and I separated and I later married Robert (Brown) we lived on a yacht for 17 years and for the last nine years I didn’t even own a set of golf clubs,” she said. “In 1991 we took off and sailed out into the Pacific with another couple and their boat. “When we came back after about nine months I got work in Gladstone and we bought a small business there and stayed for four years. “I played golf there from 1992-1995 and I didn’t play golf again until I came back to Boonah in 2004.” Sweet-swinging Anne won the Boonah club championship in 1959 and didn’t win it again until 2004 – 45 years later. “After my first win I left Boonah to work in Brisbane and went back to live there in 2004,” the six marker said.
YOU WIN AGAIN: The winner’s circle is a familiar place for Anne Alletson-Brown. Aside from winning at Boonah, Anne racked up seven club championships at Southport Golf Club – her first in 1962 and her last in 1987. Despite winning plenty of championships, Anne lists her highlights as representing her country at Commonwealth matches between Australia, Great Britain, New Zealand and Canada and playing in the Centenary British Amateur at St Andrews.
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“In 1975, we played the Commonwealth matches at Ganton Golf Club and the Centenary British Amateur at the home of golf,” Anne said. “We also played practice rounds at Troon, Muirfield, Gleneagles and Hoylake (Royal Liverpool). “When we played in the British Amateur at St Andrews they allowed us into the clubhouse, which was the first time ever women were allowed in. “We stayed in that big red building behind the 18th green, which was very special.” I asked Anne if she ever considered turning professional. “I was playing off +2 and was probably good enough at that stage, but I had a two-yearold child and I was 33 years of age,” she said. These days Anne plays competitions twice a week and still practises regularly. “Every day I look forward to my next game of golf and I enjoy practising two or three times a week,” she said. “I am off to Canberra in October to play in the women’s senior championship again.” Ever thought about slowing down, Anne? “Are you kidding,” she says. “I am having too much fun.” • FOOTNOTE: Anne’s mother Meg Nunn started the Meg Nunn Salver. The inter-district matchplay tournament is played between seven Queensland districts — Far North Queensland, North Queensland, Central Queensland, Wide Bay Burnett, Downs & South West, Gold Coast and Brisbane.
people
Future is bright for bowel cancer survivor Melissa Heagney ed@insidegolf.com.au
ON any given weekend you’ll more than likely find Mick O’Neill, golf club in hand, walking the fairways of Waverley Golf Course in Melbourne’s southeast. The peace and quiet is a world away from his busy job in construction where the noise from drilling and sawing concrete is deafening. It’s in these quiet moments, Mick, 55, reflects on his life journey over the past eight years, a journey which saw him go from the golf green, to a hospital bed and back. That’s because eight years ago, Mick was diagnosed with stage 3 bowel cancer. Mick says his diagnosis came as a huge shock, not just because it was cancer, but because he was younger than most men and women who are diagnosed with the disease. He was diagnosed in 2004 and was just 47 at the time. Statistics show the majority of Australian men and women are diagnosed with bowel cancer are aged 50 and older. Mick says he went to the toilet one day to discover blood in the toilet bowl. As he had a mate who had died from bowel cancer 18 months beforehand, Mick says he didn’t want to take any chances and went to see his GP about the bleeding. He says his doctor wasn’t thinking the bleeding was caused by bowel cancer, particularly because of his age, he believed it may have been some other non-life threatening issue and Mick was sent for a colonoscopy to find out what was going on. What happened next would change his life forever. The colonoscopy found the stage 3 tumour in his bowel. The cancer had spread to lymph nodes in his body, meaning radiotherapy followed by surgery and seven months of chemotherapy were needed to eradicate the cancer. “I walked in there to get a colonoscopy and I walked out knowing I had cancer,” Mick says, “I didn’t even feel crook, just had the smallest bit of blood,” he says. Like most people, Mick did not have any visible signs of bowel cancer in the early stages and says finding bowel cancer early is vital to survival.
Bowel cancer survivor Mick O’Neill He’s since learned that 90% of bowel cancers can be cured if detected early. Mick says he credits his wife Lisa for pushing him to get checked and ultimately saving his life. “Actually, a couple of days before the colonoscopy the bleeding stopped and I thought whatever it was had healed, but my wife said ‘we’ll you’re booked in, so you may as well go’,” Mick says. During his treatment, Mick had to give up golf – for about a year – before slowly making his way back onto the links. “I really did miss it – I wanted to play – when I was sitting in hospital on a lovely day I wanted to get out there. “You don’t really miss something like that until it’s taken away from you,” Mick says. Despite not being able to play, Mick says he still had a chance to talk about it in between his surgical consults. His colorectal surgeon, he discovered, was a keen golfer also. “He’s a member at Heritage (Golf Club) so we used to talk golf.” Mick says he started golfing at age 15, wanting to challenge himself at a sport which required his own talent and skills and didn’t require anyone else turning up to compete against him. It was about facing your own skill level. “You’re competing against something that doesn’t have to hit a ball back at you – something that doesn’t have to do anything – doesn’t sook and moan,” he says. “You have the same, constant challenge – you against the course – you’ve got to beat the course.” Mick says he built up his endurance
again slowly, starting out by playing 9 holes, before moving up to the full 18. “Because of the surgery I had sore muscles and scarring, it was hard to get back my swing but eventually it came good,” he says. Mick now plays with a handicap of seven – it was three but Mick jokes that was back in his halcyon golfing days. He has been the Pennant Captain for Waverley Golf Club where he is currently a member and is a fixture at charity golf days raising money for Cancer Council. As a survivor, the cancer charity days hold a lot of meaning for him. Mick says he is blessed to have discovered his cancer when he did – he didn’t ignore the signs. Because he found his cancer in time, he has a bright future ahead of him and more time with his much loved children, son Clay and daughter Hayley. “Don’t say ‘she’ll be right’ – you’re not bulletproof and the older you get the less bulletproof you become,” he says with a laugh. He encourages all men and women to take action when they see the signs – telling people not to wait to see their doctor. He also encourages men and women to complete a bowel cancer screening test, called a faecal occult blood test (FOBT), once they reach the age of 50, every two years. An FOBT is a simple, at-home test which can find the early signs of bowel cancer which are not always visible. “You can survive if you find it early – so give yourself a chance, that’s what I’d say, just give yourself a chance.” •
Here’s what you need to know about bowel cancer: • Bowel cancer normally starts as a polyp (a mushroom-shaped growth) in the lining of the bowel. • It mainly affects men and women aged 50 and older. • A bowel cancer screening test, called a faecal occult blood test (FOBT) looks for invisible traces of blood in bowel motions which may be caused by polyps. It’s a simple test which can be done in the privacy and comfort of your own home. • Symptoms of bowel cancer can include a change in toilet habits
like loose or more frequent bowel motions, constipation, abdominal pain, unusual fatigue and unexpected weight loss. If you have any of these symptoms, don’t put it off, make an appointment to see your doctor. • The Australian Federal Government funds the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program sending free FOBTs to men and women aged 50, 55 and 65. • It is recommended men and women screen every two years to catch
bowel cancer in its early stages. If you do not qualify for the National Program you can still purchase an FOBT from selected pharmacies. • Speak with your doctor or call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20 in your state or territory for more information on how you can obtain an FOBT. You can also visit www.cancervic. org.au/about-cancer/cancer types/ bowel cancer for more information on bowel cancer. •
www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
21
legends
The life of Brian David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au
FORMER champion touring professional Brian Jones is slowing down … and for good reason. The 61-year-old, an 11-time winner on the Japan Tour, says he fears he will become a “nutcase” if he continues playing tour events. With that in mind, he has decided to scale back his tournament schedule. It’s getting hard, he says, to compete against the young 50-somethings. “I don’t play that many senior events now,” Jones said. “It’s pretty tough because you want to play well, but when you don’t play well it drives you mad. “Anyway, I have been a tournament player for over 42 years so I don’t need to be out there busting my gut and finishing up a nutcase.” Like most champions, Jones is highly competitive, which can lead to frustration if things go awry. “When you have a competitive nature and are no longer competitive you start to question why you continue playing tour events,” said Jones, who still plays the occasional PGA Legends Tour event. “When you have an ordinary day, like I did in the second round of the Queensland Senior PGA Championship, it’s gut-wrenching. “But we are still here so that’s got to be good,” he joked. Sydney-born Jones played throughout Asia and Australasia, but it was the Japan Tour where he made fame and fortune. He played the Japan Tour between 1977 and 1993 winning 11 times against the likes of legends Isao Aoki and the Ozaki brothers Masashi
22
October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
(Jumbo), Tateo (Jet) and Naomichi (Joe). In Japan, Jones received legendary status and was idolised by the Japanese galleries. His best and most lucrative years were between 1987 and 1989 when he finished seventh, fifth and third respectively on the OOM collecting around $2m in that period alone. He also was a regular winner on the Asian and Australasian circuits. He captured the Indian Open (three times), the Malaysian Open, NZ Open and NZ PGA Championship and the WA Open and the Tasmanian Open. Jones played on the European Seniors Tour from 2002 to 2005, winning the 2002 De Vere Hotels Seniors Classic. His best result in a major was a tie for eighth behind winner Bill Rogers in the 1981 Open Championship at Royal St Georges. Because Jones rarely played in Australia, he was virtually unknown at home although he did finish runner-up to Greg Norman in the 1980 Australian Open. “I didn’t play here that much in those days and I make no excuses for that,” Jones said. “By the time I came home (from Japan) it was late in the year and I was worn out. “In those days, we played anything from 30 to 40 tournaments a year and most of those were in a row. “These days they play 16 or 18 for the year and they are done.” While he seldom played at home, Jones played even fewer tournaments in the US. “I played the odd tournament in the US – four or five,” he said. “I never considered going to the US full-time because, in terms of money, the Japan Tour was the second best tour in those days.
STRAIGHT SHOOTER: Brian Jones watches the outcome of his drive. because he could do anything with the golf ball. “Also, I didn’t believe I was strong enough to play in the US,” said Jones, who measures 169cm “People say he could only hit it left to right, (5’7”) and weighs in at 72kg. but he could hit any shot he wanted to. He could “I believed I didn’t hit it far enough. There was manoeuvre the ball and he was a brilliant stroke a time when I hit it straight and kept the ball in player. Seve was a legend as well. play. I wish I could now,” he laughed. “(Greg) Norman was a great player and the best “So, Japan was a good place for me to play. I for a long while especially with the persimmon was happy there and it wasn’t far to get back to driver. He was the longest and straightest there Australia.” was.” With a deadly short game, Jones had an uncanny Four years ago, Jones switched to the long putter touch around the greens. after becoming frustrated with the short flat-stick. He developed his lethal short game while “I wish I had switched to the long putter 15 serving his traineeship with Billy Dunk at Fox years ago,” he said. Hills in Sydney. These days, the fun-loving Jones resides on “Dunky was a great player and the thing he the Gold Coast and plays his golf at Lakelands Golf Club. taught me was to practise hard,” he said. “Every spare moment I had I was on the practice tee.” “When I turned 50 the Gold Coast was the Throughout his illustrious career, Jones played place to be,” he said. “I live a very quiet life, love reading, fishing, wine and beer and I play golf a with some of the game’s greats including Jack few times a week. Nicklaus, Seve Ballesteros, Lee Trevino and “I also love watching sport and when the footy Greg Norman. is on I yell and scream like everyone else.” • “Jack was the best, but I put Trevino up there
juniors
Parents behaving badly
LIFE LESSONS: Graeme Trew inspires young golfers at his golf academy. HE’S not the first and he won’t be the last golf professional to accuse parents of behaving badly. Graeme Trew, who runs the Graeme Trew Golf Academy at Murwillumbah Golf Club in northern NSW, says some parents are the bane of junior golf coaches. “I have been involved in coaching, caddying and watching junior golf for many years and some of the things I have witnessed horrifies me,” he told Inside Golf. “In my opinion, dads are the biggest problem.” Some of the issues he has witnessed include seeing parents giving their child a preferred lie, inaccurate counting, bad behaviour and the abuse of children. “Quite often the abuse of a child on the golf course ends up in tears,” he said. When Trew does identify a problem, he is quick to nip it in the bud. “I now talk to the parents and the juniors as a group early on and tell them what I expect from the child and the parents,” he said. “I am now having far less problems. “No parent likes to hear that their child’s behaviour is not up to standard. Talking about issues like behaviour expectations beforehand saves a lot of trouble in the future.” Trew said one of the major issues was parents putting too much pressure on the child. Trew, himself a father, says even he has fallen into that trap. “What parents have to realise is the kids
are trying their best and sometimes they are trying too hard. “We don’t need to tell them they aren’t trying hard enough. “In the past, I was giving my daughter far too much advice, but that has all changed. “Recently my daughter Maddie hit two poor shots in a row. She turned to me to asked, ‘what am I doing wrong’? “I told her she wasn’t doing anything wrong, and to keep playing. “She then went on to play the last 12 holes in eight-over par and she won by seven shots, which is not bad for a 22 handicapper. “I am not saying this will always be the answer to good golf, but sometimes the best advice is no advice. “I believe that our job on the golf course is to let them learn from their mistakes and to be there to support them no matter what the result is. “We also need to remember that some of these kids are small and they have big handicaps. If they do have large handicaps then they are sure to hit some poor shots. “My advice to parents is to let their coach sort things out and to remember that these things take time. “We need to think about why we got the child into sport in the first place. “Is it such a bad thing that the child plays golf just because they like it?” Graeme Trew must be doing something right because he is attracting plenty of juniors to his academy as he continues to grow golf at the grass roots level. •
Everyone’s a winner in PUMP Golf Shootouts PUMP Golf Shootouts are a fantastic way for junior golfers to enjoy the game of golf. Here are a few reasons why: • Everyone’s a winner – each junior golfer receives a participation gift and certificate just for playing. • Juniors of all abilities have the opportunity to play – there are net and scratch trophies and both the winners go into the draw for the PUMP Golf Junior Festival. • It’s a nationally run event – your juniors can be part of an Australiawide tournament. • Does your club already run a 9-hole junior competition? Speak to your Pro Shop to see if they can make one of your events a PUMP Golf Shootout and give you the opportunity to win the trip of a lifetime. • The PGA and Golf Australia are working together to deliver a clear pathway for Junior Golf. The MYGolf skills development program provides you with the necessary skills to work on your game and the PUMP Golf Shootout Event is great for when you are ready for the course. • It’s a great transitional event – when you are ready to head out on course for your first 9-hole competition, a PUMP Golf Shootout event is a great starting point to make it more memorable. • Win a trip to Queensland! All Net and Scratch winners from each event go into the draw to win a spot at the PUMP Golf Junior Festival so you could be heading to the magnificent Twin Waters on the Sunshine Coast. For more on PUMP Golf Shootout Events, visit www.pumpgolf.com.au for a listing of events around the country. •
A first for brother, sister OUT at Toogoolowah Golf Club, 120 kilometres northwest of Brisbane, the Frohmuller siblings are making every post a winner. Dad Craig Frohmuller wrote to Inside Golf to inform us his children, Kiara and Matthew, had won the overall boys and girls gross titles at the Toolgoolowah Junior Classic. “It’s the first time a brother and sister have won the one event together,” Craig said. “Kiara and Matthew are avid golfers and both have been playing golf from a very young age. My wife and I are avid golfers so they have grown up with golf as a big part of their lives.” Matthew is 14 and plays off a handicap of five and Kiara is 16 and plays off a handicap of 14.
Kiara and Matthew Frohmuller The pair has won a spot in the Greg Norman Junior Masters to be played on the Gold Coast in December. Kiara and Matthew recently represented the Met West golf team in the Queensland State Schools golf
titles where Kiara won the girls’ 19 years nett title. “Matthew played well over the four days, finishing 14th in a field of 90 talented junior golfers from all over Queensland,” Craig said. Dad Craig is the junior golf coordinator of the Moreton District. Other Moreton District winners at Toogoolowah were Jackson Morgan, who won the boys’ division 3 title, and Jackson Rohl, the division 3 nett winner. “We currently have some very talented juniors coming out of our district, which is quite a small area,” he said. “I work tirelessly spreading the word of junior golf and it makes me proud when I see our juniors perform so well.” •
www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
23
troppo tour
Tales from the Troppo: The ‘Tim Tam Gigolo’ from Mexico Wally Wright ed@insidegolf.com.au
During the halcyon days of the ‘Troppo’ Tour in the early-to-mid 1980’s, Queensland was the place to be. In previous years, Queensland Pro-Am tournaments struggled to attract players from other states because there wasn’t enough prize money on offer, but that all changed when John Downs took over as Tournament Director. After the overwhelming success of the 1980 Tour, word quickly spread through Australia’s professional golf ranks, and suddenly dozens of pros from southern states began heading north of the Tweed in search of the Australian golf dream. They quickly became known as the ‘Mexicans’. Some of the prominent ‘Mexicans’ at that time were Mike Harwood and Wayne Riley. Others from New South Wales and Victoria included David Armstrong, Wayne Meikle, Darrell Brown and Phil Hodge. Even pros from as far away as Western Australia, like Greg Carroll, came to Queensland to compete on Australia’s biggest Pro-Am circuit. Some had more success than others, but more importantly, they embraced the fun-loving spirit of the ‘Troppo’ Tour, which endeared them to the local amateurs in each town they visited. One player who epitomised this spirit was Victoria’s Alan Schenk. After turning pro in 1980, Alan decided that he’d spend a few years having a crack at becoming a touring pro. Despite the fact that Alan was still finding his feet in professional golf when he first joined the ‘Troppo’ Tour in the early 80’s, his name was well-known to several Queensland pros, thanks in the most part to Peter McWhinney, who enjoyed telling his fellow pros the humorous story of his first meeting with A. Schenk (which when pronounced sounds like ‘shank’) at Launceston Golf Club in 1981. Just like every pro that played on the
Queensland PGA Sunshine Tour, Alan was given a nickname within the first few days of touring. Australians are notoriously lazy when it comes to attaching nicknames to one another. The standard protocol seems to be the addition of a ‘y’ or ‘ie’ to the end of someone’s surname. Rarely do the stars align in such a way that a funny and witty nickname can be attached immediately without any disagreement from the general populous. But when a professional golfer has the surname Schenk, the possibilities are endless (e.g. ‘Socket’, ‘Snik’, ‘Low Grommet Right’), even for the most unimaginative of minds. Alan struggled from the outset when he first played on the ‘Troppo’. He didn’t have any sponsors and he hadn’t taken into account how much money he would need to complete the three-month Tour. Add to that the fact that he was up against a red-hot field of Queenslanders like Ian Baker-Finch, Wayne Grady, Terry Price, Peter McWhinney, Paul Foley and Jeff Woodland and it’s no surprise that Alan had to head home to Torquay after only a few weeks because he had run out of money. Twelve months later, Alan returned to Queensland to try his luck again. This time, he was slightly more organised, at least that’s what he thought. He was getting some sponsorship money from surf brand Quiksilver, he had a travelling buddy in fellow Victorian professional Ian Donnelly, and he had accommodation in every town. “I thought I was being clever by buying a Falcon XC V8 Ute and tying a caravan onto the back of it,” said Schenk. “Sadly the cost of fuel overrode any savings that were made in accommodation.” Similarly to many players who grew up playing on the sand-based courses of Victoria, Alan struggled to adjust to the rougher courses of Queensland’s rural towns, but then again he never expected to be a regular contender. “My main goal was just to make the weekend,” said Schenk.
A handful of Troppo Tour lads (left to right): John Downs, Wayne Grady, Ian Baker-Finch, unknown, Barty Hamers, Gerry Taylor, Richard Parkin, Keith Ewald, Paul Foley (INSET: Alan Schenk) “Once I saw how well guys like IBF and Grades hit the ball, I realised that I didn’t stand a chance. “I wanted to be good but I just didn’t have the game to compete with those guys.” Although Alan didn’t return home to Torquay with an inflated bank balance, he took solace in the fact that he had given professional golf his best efforts. Looking on the bright side, his new Falcon V8 Ute was still in one piece, which can’t be said for many of the vehicles that were taken on the ‘Troppo’ Tour in those days. Funnily enough, Alan picked up another nickname while on the ‘Troppo’ Tour; one that had no correlation whatsoever to the dreaded ‘shank’. Alan recounts: “I can remember playing a Pro-Am in one of the mining towns near Childers. One of my playing partners asked if it was ok if his daughter tagged along (poor thing, 35 years old and well on her way to spinsterhood!). We enjoyed the day then they invited me to dinner and graciously listened to my tale of
woe. After a great night I left and didn’t give it a second thought. I proceeded to drive well over 100 kilometres to the next event only to find her standing by a tree on the first tee the next morning. I had a fan. “She followed me around again and then offered to take me out to dinner. What can I say, funds were low! On reflection I must have done such a good job on selling myself as a massive loser as she handed me a cheque for $200 and a packet of Tim Tams. We ended up back at the golf club car park miles from town at around 11.00 p.m. I can clearly remember a voice in my head telling me to kiss her....don’t kiss her.....kiss her........Back and forward it went in my mind trying to convince myself she was a good-hearted girl and at the very least deserved a kiss for her kindness. Then out of the darkness came a guy who had been left behind at the club and needed a lift back to town. My prayers were answered. “So the legend of the “Tim Tam Gigolo” was born. I wasn’t able to shake the tag for the rest of the tour.” •
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Rory
McIlroy Making his mark! David Newbery Andrew McKenzie david@insidegolf.com.au ed@insidegolf.com.au
Nicklaus vs. Watson; Hogan vs. Snead; Jones vs. Hagen. Some people will tell you that every great champion needs a great rival. That for their career to be complete they need a great challenger – someone who provides the ultimate test and forces them to produce their absolute best. But what happens if you are simply too good? What if your game is at a level so much higher than the rest of the competition, that no one could be expected to match you on a regular basis? Between 1999 and 2008, Tiger Woods won 13 Major titles. He singlehandedly changed the game as we know it today. Essentially, ‘he was a
freak.’ He produced unbelievable shots at the most critical times under extreme pressure. He found a way to win when it appeared it couldn’t be done. The gap in world ranking points between himself and the nearest player at the time would have you believe that he was twice as good as anyone else. And I think he was. He was near invincible. When Tiger first began to stamp his authority as the most dominant force in golf, the media and fans were desperate to see a rival emerge. So desperate in fact, they tried to fabricate one. Any time Els, Mickelson or Singh were playing well or winning, the media would be all over it, trying to convince you that their game had reached new heights and that the invincible Tiger would be tested. This of course never truly eventuated. Whilst all of those guys are great champions in
their own right, none of them were ever going to be able to consistently produce the sort of golf that Tiger was playing. It was not a reflection on their shortcomings, but rather a true indication of just how good Tiger was. As time went by, more and more guys had their hats involuntarily thrown into the ring as ‘Tiger’s next rival’. First it was Garcia, the new kid on the block (at just nineteen) during the 1999 PGA Championship. He played spectacular golf down the stretch, taking it to Woods all the way to the final hole where he would ultimately fall one stroke short. The media dubbed it ‘golf ’s next great rivalry’ but as we all know now, this would not come to fruition, in fact far from it–to this day Sergio is still yet to win a Major. Australians Adam Scott and Aaron Baddeley
also had Tiger comparisons made early on in their careers. It really is unfair that such parallels are drawn when these guys are so young, particularly when the guy they’re being compared to may yet go down as the greatest player of all time. It is obvious that these guys are talented and exciting young prospects. Why can’t we just enjoying watching them play and evolve? In my opinion, golf ’s newest sensation, Rory McIlroy, is the real deal. I have no doubt that this is the guy who will dominate our game for the next decade. With the exception of Louis Oosthuizen at The British Open, no player other than Woods has been able crush a Major field like McIlroy did in his two victories. His wins were so emphatic that anytime he is in contention from now on you can bet the rest of the field will be taking notice.
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cover story STATS: RORY MCILROY Personal Born
4 May 1989, Holywood, County Down, Northern Ireland
Height
1.75 m
Weight
73 kg
Nationality
Northern Ireland
Partner
Caroline Wozniacki
Career Turned professional
2007
Current tour(s)
European Tour PGA Tour
Number of wins by tour PGA Tour 6 European Tour 4 Asian Tour 1 Other 1 (Shanghai Masters) Best results in Major Championships Masters Tournament T15: 2011 U.S. Open Won: 2011 The Open T3: 2010 Championship PGA Championship Won: 2012
McIlroy is in a great position to build on his two Major victories. In his first real opportunity to win a Major at the 2010 Masters, Rory capitulated. He imploded, coming unstuck badly on the final nine holes. I feel this was a pivotal point for him. Over the years many players have had near-misses that haunted them throughout their careers, accumulating like bad baggage that ultimately leaves permanent mental scar tissue. So how did McIlroy handle his disaster? He went out in the very next Major (The U.S. Open) and won by 8 shots! I think that this chain of events will instil a sense of belief in Rory that will remain for the rest of his career. Anytime he hits a hurdle or comes up one short he will be able to draw from that experience and know he’ll bounce back. It
is an important quality in a champion. Just ask Jack Nicklaus, who had 19 runner-up finishes in Majors to go along with his 18 victories. So is this the rivalry we have all longed for? Not exactly. One player is just beginning his career and the other is entering the twilight of his. McIlroy is just 23 years of age while Tiger is now almost 37. As we also know, Tiger is not the player he once was. The days of the ‘untouchable Woods’ seem some time ago now and he doesn’t inflict fear into his opponents like he once did. I see McIlroy as more of a successor to Wood’s throne rather than a rival. A handing over of the baton, if you like. But you can be sure that it won’t happen without a fight. I believe Woods still has some Major victories left in him yet. His desire to become the greatest
player of all time, along with his fiery competitive attitude, will see him making McIlroy’s life difficult for some time yet. So whilst I don’t see a long-term rivalry developing, I think we have some great duels on our hands in the near future. McIlroy’s win in last month’s Deutsche Bank event, where Tiger finished third, may just be a glimpse of what’s to come. Then, in winning the BMW Championship the following week, McIlroy became the first player since Woods (in 2009) to win in successive weeks on the US tour, and he joined Woods and Nicklaus as the only players to win at least six PGA Tour events before his 24th birthday. Very impressive indeed. “Just playing with a lot of confidence right now,” McIlroy said recently. “I’m confident in my ability
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and confident with the shots that I’m hitting and confident on the greens.” He added, “It’s a nice run to be on, and I want to try to keep it going for as long as possible.” Woods has been golf ’s ultimate superstar and Rory lies in wait to become the next one. Whilst their careers may be a generation apart, luckily for us they overlap. It will be an exciting window of time over the next few years where we will hopefully witness some great battles between these two, providing fans with the excitement and fireworks we all crave. • Andrew McKenzie is a tour professional whose victories include The Samsung Benest Open and The Korean PGA. Photos courtesy of OneAsia
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27
business
Ted’s still making his presence felt David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au
THE “godfather” of golf club managers – former Royal Queensland Golf Club boss Ted Coker – might have retired 18 years ago but he is still making his voice heard at Golf Managers’ Australia (Qld) meetings. Octogenarian Ted likes to keep abreast of the business and doesn’t mind offering an opinion on a wide range of subjects. Well-respected and liked, Ted was also the journalists’ friend when he was the general manager at Royal Queensland because he would often invite golf writers to the club to update them on issues and happenings at the club. He certainly was proactive. Sometimes we would turn up and his personal assistant would inform us he was out on the golf course. Next thing we would see was a motorbike racing down the 18th hole towards the clubhouse and it was Ted, who had just “popped out to see the superintendent”. In the modern era, Ted might be labelled as old-school but he certainly had his finger on the pulse. Even today, club managers call on his wisdom and experience. St i l l, t he 83-ye ar-old re ckons his qualifications wouldn’t be enough get a job as a general manager in the 21st century. “When I went to Virginia Golf Club I knew
nothing about being a golf club manager. “I could play golf and that’s all. If I tried to get a job today with the qualifications I had I would never get a job,” said Ted, who grew up in Tenterfield where his parents owned and operated a tailoring business. “I was an apprentice tailor and when I got married I was getting £7 a week. “I opened a sports store because I was the club champion at the time and I thought all my friends would flock in and buy golf clubs, but that didn’t happen. “Then I got a cycle agency and so I was a cycle and sports store.” In the late 1950s, Ted moved his family to Brisbane for health reasons. “We had two kids but one of them was ill and we had to bring him to Brisbane to live so I had to get a job and I was lucky enough to get the job at Virginia. “That was in 1957. I stayed there for eight years and then I went to Royal Queensland and retired from there at the end of 1994.” It was at Royal Queensland that Ted formed a close friendship with the club’s then golf professional Charlie Earp. They were a formidable team for many decades. Both men are long retired, but they have remained good friends. And it seems Ted hasn’t lost his sense of humour as he related a story to Inside Golf. “I just bought a golf book called How to Play Golf for Ladies,” said Ted, who plays golf three times a week. “It is one of the best books
EASY RIDER: Ted Coker with his mode of transport when he was general manager at Royal Queensland. I have ever read. “I rang Charlie and told him I had bought this book and I said to him ‘it is not quite the same as what you told me’. “Charlie wasn’t impressed,” he laughed. “Charlie always tells the story that he gave
me lessons at the club and whenever he went up stairs to the office to see me, I was reading a golf book. “He is a lovely bloke – one of the nicest blokes you’d ever meet.” You are spot on about that one, Ted. •
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legends tour
Geoff Nicholas: a true champion Larry Canning ed@insidegolf.com.au
Geoff Nicholas not only shares a very similar name to the greatest golfer the world has ever seen, but if you take a look at Geoff ’s achievements on the golf course, you’d need a countback to separate the two champions. Geoff— or “Jack” as he is affectionately known—was born with both legs severely deformed, the result of Thalidomide. He went through seven operations and, at the age of 13, doctors amputated his right leg and used bones from it to reconstruct his left leg. His first effort to master the game of golf came a year later when he carded a 12 on the par-three 1st hole at Kareela Golf Club in Sydney. “I remember thinking at the time that there was definitely room for improvement in my game,” Geoff recalls. Geoff did exactly that and through grit and incredible determination turned himself into the game’s most dominant amputee golfer on the planet. His list of titles includes The US, British, Australian, Japanese, New Zealand and Canadian Amputee titles, along with no less than 13 World Amputee Championships. Just when you’d think Geoff might take a well-earned rest on his laurels, he decided to take a crack at the play for cash tour and in 1998 Geoff became the first amputee golfer to earn his PGA Tour Card. It’s no surprise that Geoff has now joined us on the EZGO Australasian Legends Tour and has already recorded a victory, shooting 4-under at the Helensvale Pro-Am Tournament. I caught up with him recently for a chat.
Are you up
Larry: Did you have a crack at any other sports? Why did golf appeal so much? Geoff: I would have liked to have played other sports, though physically it was too hard. I was interested in all sports. Watching sport on TV was a passion. I turned to golf when I was 13, playing with a stick and tennis ball in the backyard then down to the local course. I had now found a sport I could play. I couldn’t keep away from the game! Larry: What have been the biggest hurdles to overcome... both physical and psychological? Geoff: The biggest hurdle was learning to walk
so far. It was like a pilot doing his miles. I played 9 holes only for quite a while, then 18. Eventually I could play 36. The psychological side took care of itself, once you can overcome the adversity and mine was through playing golf, you feel like a winner. Larr y : What motivated you to turn professional? Geoff: As a kid I always dreamed of playing professionally. I won my first US and British Open Amputee Championships in 1990. I then went to the (PGA) Tour School and got my card. The next 10 years I enjoyed so much— playing professionally, making a few cuts here and there. Though just to compete, I felt like a champion. I still have those competitive juices flowing and I’m excited to now be playing The EZGO PGA Seniors Tour. Larry: Now you’ve won on the Legends Tour, what’s next? Do you set goals? Geoff: Yes, it was nice to have a win. I really enjoy catching up with some old faces and new. The Seniors Tour seems to be growing every year and it’s nice to support that. Maybe I might look at a Senior Open Qualifier. My goals are to enjoy playing, wherever that may be. Larry: What is the funniest or strangest thing that has ever happened to you on a golf course? Geoff: One time, I was playing with three guys that I’d never played with before (who didn’t know my situation.) I hit this one shot and, through impact, my leg half exploded and snapped in two — leaving me lying on the ground looking like I had just trod on a landmine. They were in more shock than me! Though, as golfers do, they kept playing. I was picked up by the greenkeepers. Footnote: In 2004 Geoff was awarded the Order of Australia Medal. •
Sun City’s five year redevelopment tees off A $1million redevelopment of Western Australia’s Sun City Country Club commenced last month. The multi-year upgrade program, which will see the course redesigned and modified, is the first major works since the club opened in the 1970s. The redevelopment is being undertaken in partnership by the Club and Peet Limited, the company behind the 1500-home estate which will be built alongside the golf course over the next 10 years. Peet’s team of consultants have also been working closely with the Club and its masterplanners Ogilvy Clayton to plan the extensive, multi-stage project. “We see this redevelopment as an important step forward in preserving and enhancing the local beauty of the area as Yanchep’s community grows. Sun City Country Club, with its unique landscape, is an undeniable local asset. Peet is proud to be investing in its future and we remain committed to ensuring that Yanchep is a desirable place to live for many generations to come,” said Brendan Gore, Peet Limited’s CEO and Managing Director. The first phase of the fairway upgrades, involving the realignment of holes 13, 14 and 15, is anticipated for completion in early 2013. The boundary of this area, which adjoins the new estate, will also be re-landscaped as part of this work. Works will then be rolled out over the coming four years. The Club will remain open throughout the duration of the works. •
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pga igi
Only the best for Royal Melbourne IT’S not a prerequisite to getting a job at The Royal Melbourne Golf Club, but anyone with PGA International Golf Institute (PGA IGI) qualifications has a huge advantage. Currently, Australia’s top-ranked golf club has four PGA IGI graduates/students on its books. That’s how highly Royal Melbourne and other top-tier golf clubs rate PGA IGI graduates. Royal Melbourne golf manager Aaron Newnham is employed by the golf club while Annabel Rolley, Jack Donaldson and Jason Simmons work out of the pro shop under the guidance of head professionals Richard Hatt and Bruce Green. “It’s not a criterion to have PGA IGI qualifications to come here, but we have a high standard of ethics and the PGA IGI graduates have that rounded education and a management background,” Hatt said. “Having people come here that can help advance our business, rather than start from the ground up is a huge advantage to our business and the club. “We are lucky we have four of them here. “Being the number one club, our standards are high and we do look for people who have that extra bit to offer. The PGA IGI program gives its students a very good base.” Hatt is so impressed with the PGA IGI program that he has enrolled in the program to further his education. “I have done two modules, customer service and turf management, and would like to do the whole lot as further education is needed in this day and age. Today, more and more apprentices that come through the system are better educated. “Clubs are looking for those skills and if you haven’t got them you will be left behind. “It’s worth doing because life is about trying to advance yourself as much as possible rather than sit there and think you know it all.
Royal Melbourne Golf Club’s Jack Donaldson, Annabel Rolley and Aaron Newnham are PGA IGI graduates. “That’s what golf pros need to do because our role is changing and the PGA IGI qualifications are beneficial. “If you can learn something new every day then it’s been a good day,” Hatt said. Royal Melbourne’s CEO Paul Rak is also in favour of professional development. “Our CEO has the belief that we have the best golf course and should strive to have the best pro shop, the best catering staff and the best management staff,” Hatt said. “Having a guy who can hit a golf ball is not the be-all and end-all for us. “It’s an important skill to have and it’s good to be able to play at a decent level, but having guys here that have gone through the PGA IGI program is a huge advantage for us because when they arrive they hit the ground running.”
Rak said he was impressed with the PGA IGI program. “We are very comfortable with the PGA IGI program and at the end of the day graduates come out very well balanced as far as their education goes,” he said. “It (program) gives them the opportunity to play golf (professionally), work in a golf shop, teach golf or run their own show. “We always look for staff being trained irrespective of age. That’s the important thing at the end of the day. “We are lucky here because we are a diverse club. We have members, corporate days, tournaments and all those sorts of things so our people are exposed to a variety of events and industry practices within this facility. “At Royal Melbourne, we have training sessions
with all our staff so it’s a good balance. “Over the years, head pro Bruce Green has had some very good people that have gone on to manage their own shops or worked at other golf clubs. “I think having them trained as PGA professionals and having the exposure here gives them a lot of opportunities. “If they do it right at Royal Melbourne I am sure it helps when they go to work in other areas.” • FOOTNOTE: PGA IGI students graduate with Australia’s only Diploma of Golf Management from PGA IGI and a Bachelor of Business degree majoring in Sports Management from Griffith University. For more information about the PGA International Golf Institute program and its delivery, telephone (07) 5657-6116 or go to the website www.pgaigi.com
UPCOMING ANNUAL EVENTS
CEREBRAL PALSY CHARITY GOLF DAY
LADIES OPEN TOURNAMENT
21 OCTOber 2012
22-26 OCTOber 2012
18 Hole Individual Stableford event with NTP for Men and Ladies. What a great way to lead into the Ladies’ Open Tournament. Lunch will be available in our Brasserie.
Includes golfing events each day and some great social events as well.
HAHN GOLF OPEN AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP 9-11 November 2012
MERCEDES BENZ DUNTRYLEAGUE CLASSIC 19-22 January 2013
(Golf NSW Vardon Event & Senior Event in conjunction) These three days of golf are not to be missed. A shotgun Par 3 shootout on Friday is the perfect introduction to the Championship on Saturday and Sunday.
Enjoy three rounds of golf on magnificent Duntryleague. This years event will run for three days of golf only, starting on the Saturday night with a registration and cocktail party. Packages are available for the full event and an early bird special is also available. Book early to avoid disappointment as this event fills quickly. Open to all male and female golfers with an official handicap.
For further details and entry forms for all the above events, please visit
www.duntryleague.com.au Phone: (02) 6362 3466 32
October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
on tour
Handsome rewards for also-rans David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au
ELEVEN-TIME Japan Tour winner Brian Jones still shakes his head when he thinks about the rich rewards on offer on the lucrative US PGA Tour. What really astounds him is how quickly a player can become a millionaire without ever winning a tournament. “There are a lot of guys who don’t win tournaments, but make a lot of money,” Jones said. “On the US PGA Tour the first prize is around $1 million. We had to play a long time to get $1m, but I guess it’s relevant. “Jack Nicklaus was the best player and he is not even on the all-time money list anymore.” Nicklaus won 73 tournaments on the US PGA Tour and banked $5,734,322. These days, players can earn a whopping six-figure paycheque at an event without even placing in the top-10. Players who tied for 12th in the recent Greenbrier Classic, for example, banked more than $119,500 and those who finished in a tie for 22nd picked up $58,560. Nice work if you can get it. Then there are winless players like Steve Marino, who has won around $9m in prizemoney in the past 10 years. Other non-winners on the US PGA Tour include Greg Chalmers ($7.6m), Ken Duke ($6.6) and Kevin Stadler ($5.8m). Charlie Wi, who has not won a US PGA Tour event, has banked more than $8.5m while Kevin Na, with one win, has won more than $13m in prizemoney and Bo van Pelt, another one-time winner, has banked $17.5m.
Today’s players like Greg Chalmers are becoming quick millionaires despite never winning on Tour. Greg Norman won 20 times on the US PGA Tour and received a paltry $14.5m in prizemoney. Perhaps today’s players need the big bucks to pay for the entourage of followers including swing doctors, managers, physios, dieticians, sports psychologists, fitness trainers etc. It was a little different in the Jones era. “We had managers although some players also had a coach and that was about it,” he said. “In the end I didn’t have a coach because I was a pretty stubborn person. “I was always taught early not to listen to too many people when you go to the range. “We were encouraged to do our own thing,” said Jones, who won more than 20 tournaments worldwide. “Everyone wants to help, but you turn off and don’t listen.”
Queesland Strokeplay Championships Qld Men’s Strokeplay Championship 21-23 October 2012, Southport Golf Club
Qld Women’s Strokeplay Championship
21-23 October 2012, Pacfic Harbour Golf & Country Club www.facebook.com/GolfQueensland
Yes, it’s a different game compared to decades past. These days the players seldom, if ever, interact with the fans. In d ay s p ast , c ol ou r f u l char a c te rs including Lee Trevino, Gary Player, Chi Chi Rodriguez, Arnold Palmer, Doug Sanders et al would chat and joke with the galleries between shots. You don’t see a lot of that these days. “I don’t think today’s players are any more professional, but I do think they don’t know how to relax,” Jones said. “They are very professional today, but when they finish their round you don’t often see them going and having a beer. “We treated it as a business, but we’d go and have a drink after the round.” •
Ossie Ossie Ossie… OSSIE Moore stepped away from his teaching role with the television Golf Show and won a golf tournament. The Queensland professional fired rounds of 69-71 to capture the Queensland Senior PGA Championship at Redland Bay Golf Club in Brisbane’s eastern suburbs. Going into the final round, Moore held a one shot lead over Inside Golf columnist Larry Canning and Lyndsay Stephen, but stretched his lead early to win by a comfortable seven shots. Canning (70-77), Paul Dalgleish (72-75) and Ken Oung (75-72) finished in a tie for second while Stephen faded to finish a shot further back on 148. “It’s really great to finally get my first win,” he said. “After some minor adjustments to my short game and putting recently I’m definitely seeing the improvements pay dividends. “To be able to finish the Queensland stage of the PGA Legends Tour with a win is fantastic and to win this title as my first is very humbling.” Conditions on the final day were difficult as the blustery conditions took their toll on most of the field. Still, the players were upbeat and full of praise for the condition of the golf course. “The condition of the golf course is terrific,” said John Downs, the head professional from Nudgee Golf Club. “It always is and the greens are great to putt on.” His comments were supported by a number of other players. Moore’s win now puts him alongside past winners Rodger Davis, Mike Harwood and David Merriman. The PGA Legends Tour players are currently contesting events in Victoria. •
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October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
View it in action @
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View it in action @
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View it in action @
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instruction: putting
Eliminating the dreaded three-putt
Top tips to speed up play Be prepared
The Inside Golf Team ed@insidegolf.com.au
Let’s face it, the game is getting longer (and longer) to play. And while many suggest that 9-hole rounds should become the norm (perish the thought!) we believe that it is the players that need fixing, not the format. So, here is a gentle reminder about some of the more game-speeding rules of golf etiquette:
Watch your ball until it stops
Photo 2
Photo 1
Brent Dale
brent@brentdalegolf.com.au
This month we’ll discuss lag putting, a critical skill to improving around the greens (and lowering your scores). I often have people tell me that their putting is fine – then I see them hit most long putts 5-6 feet past the hole! This is one of the biggest causes of the dreaded three-putt.
Here is a great drill to practice the next time you head to the golf course: Place five tees in a semi-circle past the hole as shown in picture 1. Then, head back and place tees at 10 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, 25 feet and 30 feet. Place five balls down at the first tee (10 feet) and see how many putts you get inside the semi-circle (see picture 2). Why do we have the semi-circle past the hole? Simple: Short putts NEVER go in. Once you get all five balls in the semi-circle, move on to the next/further tee and start over. See how long it takes you to get all the levels done. Don’t think too much on technique, just worry about pace and getting them close to the hole. This will help eliminate the three-putts in no time. •
Brent Dale is the head professional at Liverpool Golf Club and available for lessons 7 days a week.www.brentdalegolf.com.au. brent@brentdalegolf.com.au. 0402 038 227
After every shot – especially from the tee – keep an eye on your ball until it comes to rest. If it has wandered into the cabbage, get a clear sight onto a marker or reference point near it – a tree, bush, mound…anything. If there is even the slightest chance that it could go walkabout, play a provisional — resist the rarely-accurate urge to say “Nah, we’ll probably find it.”
If it’s lost, it’s lost
We realise that your brand-new Titleist ProV1 wasn’t cheap, but when your five minutes is up, it’s up. Declare it lost and move on. (You DID play a provisional back on the tee, right?)
Always think ahead
As you approach the green, determine where the next tee is, and then park your cart/buggy/ bag between the hole and the next tee. That way, when you are done with the hole, you can clear the green quickly. And for heaven’s sake, don’t loiter around the green discussing the scores — record your scores at the next tee!
When on the green, in the fairway, or anywhere else, get prepared for your shot while riding or walking to your ball. Read the break, check the wind, estimate the yardage and visualise the swing ahead of time, so that when it is your turn, you’re ready to go. (In this case, a GPS device or yardage book is a must). And whenever you have the opportunity, play “ready golf ”.
Go directly to your ball
Each member of your group should go directly to their ball. Avoid travelling from one ball to the other (unless helping to search for a lost ball.) When sharing a cart, drop off one player and then proceed to your own ball while he/she does their pre-shot routine.
Take Multiple Clubs
If you need to leave your bag/buggy/cart away from where your ball is positioned, take a couple of clubs with you. This will save you from having to go back and forth in case of indecision.
Watch the groups around you
If the group in front of you is more than one shot ahead (i.e. if they are on the green of a par-4 before you even tee off) you need to speed it up. Remember: your goal is to keep up with the group in front, NOT just stay ahead of the group behind. If there is no one ahead of you, but the group behind is constantly waiting for you to hit, either let them play through, or pick up the pace. Happy golfing! •
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October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
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instruction Video lesson:
Building your swing from the ground up Peter Croker
0415 292 549 www.crokergolfsystem.com
In this lesson we are arriving at an exciting learning experience where it becomes real that we all can become more consistent in building a “stable base” around solid footwork, knee action, and hip turn. Many golfers believe that they need to shift their weight when playing a golf shot. Weight certainly transfers back and forward in the golf swing but the golfer should not consciously shift his/her weight from one foot to the other. It is the back and forward motion of the club that causes any weight transfer and what is responsible for this back and forward motion is the turning of the hips. The cause of this hip turn is the correct “pushing” with the hands. This is done with the pressure points in the hands. A thorough understanding of how this is achieved will be covered in another Inside Golf Lesson. The YouTube Video Lesson with Ben Croker (web link below) shows him building his Lower Body Action using the Chip Shot. This lesson delivered a positive result with him leading in the first round at Moonah Links Open Course in the Peninsula District Open Amateur with a 71. Ben had the realization that there is much more benefit to work on improving specific swing mechanics while hitting short shots – starting with the Chip Shot. Perhaps you can test this out as well. Building your knee, hip and footwork step-bystep while practicing the Chip Shots has many benefits:
Hitting short chip shots is an excellent way to build your entire swing
The turning of the hips is responsible for the back and forward motion of the club
1. Greenside touch improves. 2. While hitting short chip shots slowly you can focus on the feel and movement (or lack of movement) of your right knee and head from start to end of Impact Zone. 3. You can build a positive left hip turn and left leg straightening action through Impact to Finish Consistency in making a solid impact requires two stable points in the swing – the head and the right knee. To do this we consider both these points of reference as “Anchor Points.” ANCHOR POINT #1 The right knee remains stable in: a) Forward Press b) Takeaway and Backswing c) Start of Downswing through Impact with the chip shot CAUSE POINT The right foot remains flat and heavy in the
ground from start to end of Impact zone. ANCHOR POINT #2 The head remains steady with eyes on the ball from start to end of Impact Zone. CAUSE POINT Keeping your eyes on the ball with a “soft” focus helps stabilize your head. When the movement from the hips on down is correct and is linked to educated hands you can become consistent from start to finish in the Chip Shot. Study the following YouTube videos to gain greater understanding of what you need to do to start building your swing from the ground up. Ben Croker Chipping: — http://www.youtube. com/watch?v=jios_iL6cig Peter Croker Chipping Lesson: — http://www. youtube.com/watch?v=A1AHePK8oPo&featu re=youtu.be •
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/Academy/view-your-swing.html
McDade named PGA Teacher of the Year Victorian PGA Professional Denis McDade was last month awarded the 2012 “Ross Herbert Teacher of the Year” accolade, presented by the PGA of Australia. A member of the PGA for over 20 years, McDade has coached as part of the Victorian Institute of Sport Golf Program for 11 years, and has spent two years as the Scholarship Coach at the AIS Golf Program. McDade is based at the Yarra Bend Golf Course. McDade also coaches a number of leading tournament professionals including Marcus Fraser, 2012 Travelers Champion Marc Leishman, OneAsia winner Matt Griffin, Paul Sheehan, Ash Hall, Gareth Paddison and Clint Rice. He also coaches 2011 British Amateur Champion Bryden Macpherson, the first Australian to win the championship since Doug Bachli in 1954. As Head of the Titleist Performance Institute Junior Advisory Board, McDade is also passionate about researching and improving the way junior golf programs are structured and delivered. “On behalf of the PGA and all my fellow Members, I congratulate Denis on this his latest achievement in what has already been an outstanding career,” said Mark Gibson, Chairman of the PGA of Australia. “Denis has always represented our Association with great passion, and his dedication to the game of golf at all levels commands great respect. I’m sure we will continue to see many more achievements from Denis and his players for many years to come.” Former winners of the award include Steve Bann, Ian Triggs, Gary Edwin, David Milne, Mark Gibson, Gary Barter and Dale Lynch. •
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October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
instruction
A woman’s guide to taking up golf
The Swing Fix: Stop the shank
Tiffany Mika
tiffany@theladygolfteacher.com.au
You have just left the work force, the children have left home and are having their own families. You would like to do something for yourself and have had the thought of taking up golf. You may have played sport before the kids came along, or you may have never played sport, but you like the idea of playing golf. The only problem is you don’t know how to play or have no idea where to start. The thought has crossed your mind, “I’m too old to learn something new,” and because you are now considering the golfing thing you now start to feel nervous and don’t want to embarrass yourself. The major issue I have found when new ladies come to learn golf is that they don’t want to embarrass themselves and really look like an idiot. They become self-conscious and are really worried about letting each other down. Ladies, I can assure you that because golf is very much an individual sport, everyone is too concerned about their own golf and are not paying attention to what YOU are doing. However, knowing this doesn’t make you feel any better because you are still uncertain to what you should do or what skill should you learn first. After teaching many women golfers I have found that if you learn the more simple skills first, your confidence grows about the game. The most important thing for a woman is to make sure she is feeling comfortable in an area which is completely outside her comfort zone. So what is the most simple technical skill in golf? The answer is PUTTING! Putting is the most simple of all the strokes
Damien Magaton (03) 9650 9766
from a technical point of view. In basic terms you tilt your body forward, so your eyes are directly above the ball and you swing your putter back and forth in a pendulum motion. This stroke I would thoroughly recommend to a woman new to the game who is nervous about starting. This will build your confidence and introduce you to golf in a non-threatening way. If you learn in a group situation it is great because you are also getting to know people who are in the same boat as you… new to the game and are feeling really nervous. The exciting thing too is that friendships develop and you can then go and practice together which opens up a totally new world. I have ladies who have been playing for a few years now and have developed friendships through golf and travel, visiting exciting new locations around Australia, playing golf in competitions or going
sight-seeing in-between playing at various golf courses. To take the first step, go and enquire at your local golf club to see if there are beginner clinics being held. Book in for one…you will be ok! Your local teaching professional will look after you and show you the way. Trust your Pro, he/ she will assist you in the right direction. But remember: I strongly recommend starting with Putting first then building your strokes from there. Be patient and take the time to practice as it will build your confidence. • Tiffany Mika is the Golf Teaching Professional at Bayview Golf Club in Mona Vale. Tiffany has a Free Online Putting Program where you can learn how to Putt in your home. Contact her at tiffany@theladygolfteacher. com.au or www.theladygolfteacher.com.au
The shank has to be one of the most horrifying shots in golf. It can come from nowhere unexpectedly. Usually when a golf ball gets shanked, it can often be followed up by more shanks. Why is this? A shank is caused by an out-to-in path with a closed clubface. Most golfers think an open clubface is what causes a shank. Because the ball shoots off to the right at almost 90 degrees with a shank, most players will try to close the clubface to prevent it. Closing the clubface with a path that is outto-in forces the hosel of the club closer to the ball which then makes the ball shank sharply off to the right. A great drill to get rid of the shanks is to place a head cover just outside the ball, and practice hitting short iron shots. If you are swinging outto-in with the face closed, you’ll hit the head cover. To miss it, you’ll swing from the inside with the face more open. • Damien Magaton is an AA PGA Professional teaching at GolfTec in Melbourne. For more tips on your game visit him at www.golftec.com.au or phone 03 9650 9766
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fitness
A structured strength program for juniors 6. Provide variety in the training session working alternating exercises to include all areas of the body. 7. Monitor technique and never compromise on form. If the athlete is struggling with the exercise then lower the degree of difficulty.
Richard Nizielski richardniz@gmail.com 0438 027 768
Let’s face it, any young player with the ambition of becoming a tour player simply can’t just hit balls and play golf to get there. With the game becoming more competitive and players hitting longer and playing more tournaments, a long and successful career is going to require a body which can perform well week in, week out. Thus, more young golfers are using physical training to prepare for a pro tour career. But, when is the right time to introduce strength training into a young player’s program? Debate has raged for years about whether pre-adolescent children should engage in weight training: will it improve sporting performance, or will it instead stunt their growth? There are several factors to consider when introducing a structured strength program to young athletes. To begin with, most exercises you see in fitness and weight-training magazines are just not suitable for young growing bodies. What is important, during the formative years, is the development of motor-skills and functional movement patterns. Here are a few recommendations to getting started. 1. Have your young golfer’s current movement patterns assessed to identify postural
The lateral jump is just one exercise that can help junior athletes considerations, physical strengths and weaknesses. Adding a training program to an already existing problem can make the situation worse. Therefore it is best to book an appointment with a Sports Physiotherapist and have an assessment. 2. Body weight exercises and compound movements should be the priority for any junior athlete program. These are all the foundation for more complex exercises. 3. Young bodies develop at varying rates. So just like golf equipment, the exercises must be tailored to the individual’s ability.
4. Build a good foundation of stability before strength by incorporating a wide variety of postural muscle exercises. 5. Give your young athlete plenty of time to rest and recover. The body doesn’t adapt during the training session, but rather after the session in the following 12-24 hours.
It is important to remember that damage can occur in young skeletons and muscle tissue if the loads are excessive. Keeping the load light will help to minimise the risk of injury. There are many exercises available which are suitable for young beginner athletes. For the young athletes I work with, I like them to be able to perform several basic movements, which include pulling, pushing, balance, jumping and landing and stability. I feel these elements are important to the physical development and future progression for any athlete. Some examples of exercises, which incorporate these elements, are: • The single leg squat • Push-up • Reverse Pull-up • Lateral or side ways jump • The front bridge • The Side bridge I have posted an example of these exercises on YouTube: http://youtu.be/YQ6DNJLHaf0. If you have any questions, feel free to email me and I will direct you to Sports Physiotherapist near you who can help with assessing your young player. •
Richard Nizielski is a Brisbane-based golf fitness expert and the Director of Golf Fit Solutions. A three-time Olympian and medallist in the sport of short track speed skating, Richard is a qualified sports and personal trainer designing individual fitness and nutrition programs for both professional and amateur golfers here in Australia and overseas. www.golffitsolutions.com
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clubs
Baysiders capture Australian Social Golf Club Championships After seven years of dedication, the Baysiders Social Golf Club from New South Wales has saluted for the greatest prize in Australian social golf by winning the 2012 Australian Social Golf Club Championships (ASGCC). In addition to winning the major team prize, the Baysiders dominated the event with podium finishes on each day and then Baysider Phil Durrington added the cherry on top by being the lucky golfer drawn to win the major prize of a free trip to Thailand to compete in the 2013 SGA International. One of the best-represented clubs at the ASGCC for many years, the Baysiders first entered a team in the tournament’s second year in 2006. Club impresario Greg Chad says he is extremely proud that a Baysiders team won the title this year. Some at the club maintain they would have entered the first year had they known the inaugural event was on and leading agitator Chris Ross claims the Baysiders as one of the foundation clubs of the tournament. “Our club has had a great connection with this tournament over many years“, says Ross. “Our members love coming here every August to compete and meet golfers from other Social Golf Clubs from around Australia. The tournament is a lot of fun thanks to the great people who participate.” The 2012 ASGCC was staged on the Gold Coast in August. It featured superb Gold Coast weather throughout and golfers from around Australia got together for a week of great golf and fun. Although it is a championship for social golf clubs, every competitor at the event had an official handicap and the majority of participants are club members. The event is played according to the rules of golf with an emphasis on enjoying the fun and
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October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
Golfers at the 2012 ASGCC celebrate the start of the event. sportsmanship of competition golf with respect with the Baysiders only registering one first, to the rules, traditions and spirit of the game. one second and one third place across the four The Baysiders was one of the best represented individual grades. clubs this year with three teams turning out On the first day, the fun Four-Ball Ambrose for the club in 2012. Only Nunawading SGC warm up at Palm Meadows was taken out by the Baysiders B Team with 53.5 in a close race and Sunraysia SGC (both Vic) have been with just 1.5 shots separating the top six teams. represented at all eight years of the tournament with Noel Tuck (Nunawading) and Paul White In Round One at Lakelands Golf Club, the (Sunraysia) the only players to have attended Baysiders C Team won the day with a stellar 117 points. Round Two was a testing day at every event. The Baysiders and Gold Cross SGC (Vic) bring multiple teams each year and Robina Woods and the Nunawading Eagles have had representatives at the event every took the bikkies by one shot with 96 points. On the final day at Palm Meadows, the Baysiders year since 2006. The event is a highlight on the Baysiders B Team came charging up the leader board annual calendar and has proved an elusive and won the day by a shot with 98 points. When all the scores were in after the 54-holes quest until this year. In 2012, the Baysiders of the tournament, it was Bruce Crebert, David burst open the floodgates with five podium Colley, John Moseley and Tony Maher from finishes over the four days of the tournament the Baysiders C Team who scored a total of 287 and their three representative teams finished to win the title of 2012 Champion Australian the tournament in first, third and equal fifth place. It was an even performance from all Social Golf Club by just five points. The members of the club over the four days. This Nunawading Eagles were second with 282 was reflected in the individual grade results and the Baysiders B Team was third with 280.
In A Grade, Ray Green from Gold Cross Bulls edged out Noel Tuck from Nunawading Aces on countback to take the title after both players scored 102 points. In B Grade, Tony Maher from the Baysiders C Team took the chocolates with a total of 99 points. In C Grade, Alan Lampard from Bushranger Golf (WA) came from 15 shots back with the best round of the final day to score an unlikely win with 98 points. In D Grade, Kevin Oulton held on to edge out his Nunawading Eagles teammate Cameron Leavy by a single shot with a total of 95 points. The other big winner at the Championships was Phil Durrington from the Baysiders who took home the biggest prize of the event when he won the raffle for a free ticket (inc airfares) to The SGA International thanks to the generous sponsorship from Thailand Golf Tours. The total value of the prize was over $2400 and the 2013 SGA International will be played from March 9 -16 in Pattaya, Thailand. Tournament host Social Golf Australia extends congratulations to all the golfers who shared in the $15,000 prize pool at the event made possible through the generous support of event sponsors Thailand Golf Tours, the Radisson Resort Gold Coast, Wilson Staff, Drummond Golf, Sporte Leisure and Heathcote Winery. Inside Golf is a proud partner of Social Golf Australia and we provide coverage of the ASGCC and results from the SGA Tour events operated by Social Golf Australia in each of the mainland capital cities. For 2012 ASGCC results, links to photo galleries and information on entering the 2013 SGA International and/or the ASGCC, go to www.socialgolfaustralia.com.au. •
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Eagle Ridge Golf Course
St Andrews Beach Golf Course
Tournament golf on the Mornington Peninsula Following the outstanding success of the May 2012 Tournament, Golf Mornington Peninsula already has plans nalised for its Fourth Annual Mornington Peninsula Golf Classic in May 2013.
WHERE AND WHEN Golfers from all over Australia and overseas are expected to again come together for a wonderful week of golf to be played on some of Mornington Peninsula’s highly ranked courses. Players will all have the benet of playing the magnicent courses at Moonah Links, St Andrews Beach, Eagle Ridge and Rosebud Country Club, with a choice of morning or afternoon shotgun starts.
“Never before has such a tournament been played on the peninsula where top courses such as these have all been available for four days during the same timeframe,” said Tracey Cooper, Executive Chairman of Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board. “As the tournament’s reputation gains momentum, the importance of having different courses to play each year is attractive to many golfers who would not otherwise have that opportunity” she said. The main 72 hole Stableford event will be played Monday 6 to Thursday 9 May inclusive with daily prizes also awarded. An optional extra day’s golf will be offered for Friday 10 May.
The Tournament begins with a Registration Day on Sunday 5 May where past players and newcomers will be welcome to register, enjoy meeting old acquaintances and plan their strategies for the week. Wayne Lucas, President Mornington Peninsula Golf Tourism said, “Taking into account past players’ requests, we have added a Dinner to be held on Tuesday 7 May as an optional extra. We continue to try and cater for the majority of requests and include ideas submitted by players as it is important to listen and learn from those who support the tournament every year”.
SPARE TIME? Players and non playing partners will have plenty of time to explore the many wonderful attractions the Mornington Peninsula offers. Morning and afternoon elds have been included to ensure everyone
Rosebud Country Club
can have spare time to visit wineries, art galleries, go shopping, or relax in the thermal hot springs. For those who just simply want to play golf all day every day, other courses will cater for your needs. Some of the non tournament courses are shown below. Simply contact them directly for bookings. Says Lucas, “When you stay on the Mornington Peninsula you simply should take in as much as you can, as nowhere else in Australia will you nd such superb attractions all within half an hour of where you will be playing Tournament golf”. “We will be ready to welcome you on May 5, and look forward to an even more successful tournament in 2013”.
Moonah Links Golf Club
EVENT DETAILS › Tournament Dates 6-9 May 2013 › Entry Fee $425 per person Early bird price of $395 for entries paid by 24 December 2012. › Inclusions Four days of golf (two with carts), 3 daily lunches, presentation day lunch, prizes and show bag. › Optional activities Celebrity dinner 7 May and Friday golf on 10 May.
Further details including tournament options and online registration can be found at: golfmorningtonpeninsula.com.au
PLAY AT AUSTRALIA’S NUMBER ONE GOLF DESTINATION
DEVILBEND GOLF CLUB
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THE FLINDERS GOLF CLUB
In the heart of the Mornington Peninsula. Challenge yourself on this beautiful course, set amidst a ora and fauna reserve. With fast smooth greens and lush Santa Anna Couch fairways, you will not be disappointed. Best value for money golf on the Peninsula. ½ price golf and carts after 2pm.
5 Day Dunes Membership $915. 7 Day Dunes Membership $1450. Includes joining fees, through to 30/6/13. Under 39 years of age? Further discounts apply. Ranked #14 golf course in Australia, 2010 Australian Golf Digest.
The magnicent 18 hole, par 70 championship golf course offers spectacular ocean views. The course features huge greens with large open bunkers, tree lined fairways and superbly manicured greens. Driving range, pro shop, resort style accommodation and dining facilities.
With cliff top views across Western Port Bay to Phillip Island and the rugged Bass Strait coastline, the Flinders Golf Club provides a stunning panorama whether you are strolling the fairways of this unique golf course, enjoying a light lunch or hosting your special occasion in our clubhouse.
03 5978 8470 www.devilbendgolf.com.au
03 59 851334 www.thedunes.com.au
03 5950 8000 www.racv.com.au/resorts
03 5989 0583 www.indersgolfclub.com.au
More information at visitmorningtonpeninsula.org/golf
clubs
New technology centre impressive
Surfers Paradise rolls out the welcome mat IF you haven’t played at Surfers Paradise Golf Club for a while then it’s time you revisited the Gold Coast club to enjoy the benefits of major changes to the golf course and clubhouse. The club’s general manager Brett Holland said there had been plenty of renewed interest in the popular Gold Coast’s 18-hole championship golf course following the changes. “The club has just completed installing its new $800,000 “Rainbird” irrigation system, which is now fully-operational and will irrigate the tees to greens with satellite navigation,” Holland said. “The golf course staff can now water every conceivable area of the golf course with precision due to the irrigation system having over 1000 individual sprinkler heads to water wherever and whenever it likes. “It’s going to save the club thousands of dollars each year. The members can be assured Surfers Paradise Golf Club now has the best watered fairways and greens on the Gold Coast, which is a bonus especially in these dry periods the Gold Coast is currently experiencing.” Renovations to the clubhouse and wedding facilities means Surfers Paradise Golf Club will be a sought-after wedding and corporate venue.
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October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
It’s a popular time of the year for weddings and the club can expect an influx of enquiries from happy couples. “It will also attract a social market to the clubhouse facilities on a regular basis,” Holland said. “The club’s target is to increase its social membership to around 1000 social members by the end of 2012. “This will assist the club’s five-year strategic vision of increasing the clubhouse revenue streams by $500,000 in its first year, which will make it one of the most financially stable golf clubs on the Gold Coast – with no debt and plenty of cash reserves still in the bank.” And when it comes to membership, Surfers Paradise Golf Club is offering full membership for less than $30 a week. “That makes it the perfect time to join not only a successful golf club, but a true members’ golf club with members’ competition golf played six days a week plus all greens fees and the privileges of booking into a competition at any time.” To f ind out more, contac t Pam on (07) 5572 6088. •
IT takes a lot to impress gun golfer and Inside Golf sale executive Scott Barsby, but he was quick to give the thumbs up to Everglades Country Club’s brand-new Technology Centre. Barsby, who plays off a handicap of one, visited the Technology Centre, which is located in the club’s newly renovated and re-designed pro shop at Woy Woy on NSW’s Central Coast. The Technology Centre features FlightScope®, the premier indoor and outdoor ball-flight and launch monitor, and world’s first 3D Doppler tracking radar for golf. And that’s not all. It also has a video capture and coaching software analysis system. Barsby said the latest in technology was located in a purpose-built hitting bay featuring state-ofthe-art lighting and touch screen split screen wall and floor monitors. The system has three cameras (front, reverse and rear) and is adaptable to both right- and lefthanded golfers. When the user completes the session, he or she receives a print out of the statistics and information from the monitor assessment to take home. And the system is linked to the internet via WiFi so the data from the session can be emailed straight to the client’s email or mobile phone. “The feature I liked most about the Technology Centre is being able to see your entire swing as you are actually swinging the club on the floor monitor, which is positioned just away from where the ball is situated, rather than having to lift your head up out of the address position to view it,” Barsby said. He said it was ideal for both coaching and clubfitting and could be used in conjunction with an outdoor session. Everglades Country Club has two AAA-rated PGA professionals on staff and both are highly experienced in teaching, club-fitting and repairs.
Scott Barsby test-drives the new technology centre at Everglades Country Club. “There is no doubt the team at Everglades will help you improve your game and make each and every golfing experience a good one,” Barsby said. Physiotherapist Phil Wulff, an expert in biomechanics and injury treatment/prevention, has recently joined the team. Their aim is to work closely with golfers, including juniors, to assess any weaknesses such as flexibility and strength and to tailor a coaching regime to assist with developing these areas. Ladies European Tour (LET) player Nikki Garrett, who is coached by Everglades CC head professional Darren Chivas, has visited the centre for a swing analysis. Barsby said he was also impressed with Everglades Country Club’s pro shop. “The pro shop is one of the best stocked shops I’ve ever seen with a massive range of top brands including Titleist, Tour Edge (Exotics and Bazooka), Cobra, Mizuno, Cleveland, Srixon, Ping, TaylorMade, Callaway, Adams, Nike, Odyssey and Wilson.” For more, telephone (02) 4341 3399 or visit the website www.everglades.net.au •
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clubs Go Golfing launches nationwide golf gift voucher
Go Golfing has launched Australia’s first nation-wide gift card, allowing golfers to play at their choice of Australia’s top-40 private and resort courses. Go Golfing managing director Peter McCarthy says it is a unique concept that enables people to buy a round of golf in a gift card format. “Bayview Golf Club in Sydney, Adelaide’s Grange Golf Club and Royal Hobart are among the top private courses where the gift card can be redeemed,” Peter says. Other top ranked resort courses available to cardholders include Links Hope Island, Sanctuary Cove, Hamilton Island, The Vintage, Kooindah Waters, Moonah Links and The Vines. Former test cricketer and keen golfer, Ian Healy, says the choice of courses and simplicity of the Go Golfing Gift Card makes it an excellent gift. “It’s a great value gift that lets you play at a choice of the best courses all over Australia,” Healy says. Retailing for $120, participating courses in the Go Golfing Gift Card are offering up to $160 in value. The card is valid for 12 months, and is also becoming a popular item for corporate incentives and employee rewards. “Essentially the voucher is for a round of 18 holes, however most courses are including motorised carts and some even offer bonus pro shop and food and beverage credits. “Horizons on the central coast of New South Wales, Sandhurst Club in Melbourne or Pacific Harbour on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast will even offer two rounds for the gift card.” Many reward programs such as Qantas Frequent Flyer, ANZ, Citibank, Macquarie and Westpac are affiliated with Go Golfing to provide this golf gift card for point redemption. www.gogolfing.net.au/giftcard •
New drive at Links Hope Island BOASTING a fleet of 70 brand-new golf carts installed with the latest in Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, Links Hope Island Golf Club on the Gold Coast is attracting plenty of golfers who enjoy all things new on a championship golf course. General manager Mark Holland told Inside Golf the new E-Z-GO golf carts from Augusta Golf Cars had arrived and had already been road-tested by a couple of superstars. Former Olympic swimming champion Duncan Armstrong and multiple Olympic shooting gold medallist and ambassador member Michael Diamond were among the first to test drive the golf carts around the Peter Thomson and Michael Wolveridge-designed championship layout at the recent Links Club. The Golf Pilot GPS system offers the most upto-date GPS technology available, and Links Hope Island, the centrepiece of Hope Island Resort, is the first club in Australia to install the latest in GPS technology. Rated the Gold Coast’s leading golf course by a golf magazine, Links Hope Island is centrally located to Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The links-style golf course, which is one of the most interesting and challenging courses in Australia, is popular with professionals and amateurs alike. Little wonder champion golfer and honorary club captain Peter Senior calls it “home” when he is not travelling the world. Consistently ranked one of Australia’s top10 resort courses, Links Hope Island’s first-class clubhouse and dining facilities are the perfect setting for social and corporate golf and events. In fact, the club attracts plenty of leading corporate clients including The Queensland Reds, Mercedes Benz, Lexus, QBE, Brisbane Airport Corporation, Price Waterhouse Coopers, Winning Appliances and Bathrooms and next year the club will host the
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The spectacular 18th hole at Links Hope Island Ronald McDonald and Alzheimer’s Charity Days. “Corporate packages can be custom made based on individual requirements,” Holland said. Anyone who takes up the challenge can expect a premier level of service. “The Links has maintained an enviable reputation as one of southeast Queensland’s premier corporate golf venues,” he said. “With 19 years’ experience, Links Hope Island continues as the corporate golf bench mark in quality of course layout, event administration and food and beverage standards. We are proud of our reputation for corporate golf day delivery. “With so many attractive options, there has never been a better time to enjoy the Links Hope Island experience.” The club has even created a new playing option for local and corporate golfers. Holland said the club had formulated the packages to attract golfers who wished to belong to a quality club without the expense of joining fees. “While the club has a strong equity member base, the new options are designed to attract regular golfers who wish to affiliate with a premier club without the expense of an entry or joining fee,” Holland said.
“The Links Seven-Day Pass offers daily course access, eligibility to play in club competitions, maintenance of Golf Australia handicap and discounts in the golf shop, Links Restaurant and driving range. The 12-month fee is $4400. “The Links Five-Day Pass, which offers similar benefits from Sunday to Thursday, is attractively priced at $3150 for a 12-month term. “The existing Corporate Partner Program has been revised to offer entry level packages of 30 rounds, including golf cart and GPS, for $2950.” “Alternatively, for southeast Queensland residents the newly launched Privilege Card provides great value and includes rounds of golf, range balls and a golf lesson. “Our course is maintained to consistently high standards as are the service levels within the club,” he said. “With our location just 40 minutes from central Brisbane and within easy reach of the Gold Coast, we are confident the packages will be sought-after by the discerning golfer who demands quality.” For more: Mark Holland on (07) 5530 9087 or via e-mail golfmail@linkshopeisland.com.au •
Are you interested in playing golf? Are you interested in developing your golf skills? Are you interested in studying golf and its processes, while attending one of
QUEENSLAND’S LEADING SCHOOLS?
Then apply to be part of the
KELVIN GROVE STATE COLLEGE – GOLF QUEENSLAND
We are extending an invitation to Junior Players aged between 10 and 17 years to join the Golf School of Excellence at Kelvin Grove State College. Limited places are available for Golfers of all handicaps from Year 6 - 12.
INTERESTED? Then why not attend our open day, to mix with the coaching staff, Physiotherapists, Fitness trainers, Sports Psychologist, and the Co Ordinators of the Golf Excellence Program? WHEN: 22nd October 2012 (Student Free Day) from 10am-1pm WHERE: Indooroopilly Golf Club
23 years industry experience Unit 2/16 Ereton Drive, Labrador 4215 Mobile: 0414 375 027 Phone: 07 5537 5033 Fax: 07 55377015 eMail: allcartparts1@optusnet.com.au 46
October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
WHY: - To hear all about the Golf Program - Inspect the coaching facilities at Indooroopilly GC - To trial for a place in the Golf Excellence squads HOW: Mr Bruce O’Neill email: bonei11@eq.edu.au or call 0417 725 917 Including name, age, handicap, golf club & contact phone number.
FOR ENROLMENT PACKAGES PLEASE CONTACT SHARON LYON: slyon64@eq.edu.au PH:
3552 7340
technology
Golf Pilot zeroes in on target THE new Golf Pilot™ GPS system installed in the new fleet of golf carts at Links Hope Island certainly has all the features a golfer needs on the golf course and more. GPS Solutions company director Mats Marklund said the GPS system had a number of unique features to go with the usual features like distance to the green. The Golf Pilot™ GPS system is unique because it gives you the exact distance to the pin – not just the front, centre and back of the green,” he said. “The pins can be quickly set by an administrator using a computer from anywhere or the green keeper can set the pin while cutting the hole. “Another unique feature is the interactive crosshair. “If you are in the middle of the fairway and your playing partner is 40m away behind a bunker and wants to know how far it is to the pin you can provide that information. “You put your finger on the crosshair and drag it to where he is positioned and it will show on the screen as well as a voice giving you the exact distance to the pin. “The crosshair will always display the distance from the cart, with the distance to the pin always available on the display. “We have extensively mapped everything on the course including out of bounds and hazards.” The Golf Pilot™ also provides accurate distances from the tee to fairway bunkers, hazards and OOB including the lay-up distance to any hazard at a glance. There is a Pro Tips feature that assists golfers wanting to know the best way to play each hole. And when it comes to promotions, the golf club can set up its own advertising run-time schedule and have adverts run in media zones throughout the course. GPS Golf™ can accept broadcast quality radio, TV, banner or print ads.
Battery Reviver ‘re-energises’ carts at Castle Hill
Every golf cart has two-way communication with the clubhouse and the pro shop can view every cart on the course. This feature is particularly beneficial when it comes to pace of play. “You can send messages to alert players they are lagging behind. An automatic message will come up warning them they need to keep up with the group ahead,” Marklund said. “Golfers can be informed of pro shop specials and have the option to place food or beverage orders. “F&B orders can be routed to an on-course food and beverage vehicle to say, for example, ‘car number 2 would like something to eat and drink’ or the order can be sent to a fully-staffed kitchen. “There is also a standard daily weather forecast including the ability to view the weather radar. “Golf carts can be prevented from entering nogo areas or confined to cart paths via geo-fencing.” Golf Pilot™ is capable of talking to the golfer
in more than 30 available native languages. Hope Island has set up Japanese, Cantonese and Mandarin languages for their clientele. Other optional features include: live leaderboard for corporate and specials events; scoring for up to four players including stroke, stableford and par games; tee time bookings; local rules including event rules; pre-event tags and cart assignments for corporate outings and more. Another unique feature that has been troubling courses for many years is how to deal with golf car accidents on a golf course. Every Golf Pilot™ system (if required) is fitted with a crash sensor, so that the pro shop will instantly be notified on the screen after an incident. This will not only increase the safety but also enable the club to properly charge for any accidents on the course. This can lead to big savings. “Basically, there nothing we can’t do when it comes to the GPS Golf Pilot™,” Marklund said. •
Castle Hill Country Club, one of Sydney’s premier private golf clubs recently tested the Battery Reviver on a golf cart that had poor, sulphated batteries. “We tested the Battery Reviver for a week and were surprised at the increased performance we got out of a cart that struggled to make 15 holes prior to installing the device,” said David Northey, head professional at Castle Hill Country Club. “Within a few days after installing the device, the same cart, with the same batteries, was easily handling 18 holes and still improving. We have now installed the Battery Reviver on all of our 70 rental carts and are recommending that all our members that own their own carts do the same.” The Battery Reviver is a new electronic device that has been recently patented in the US. It brings dead sulphated 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. By eliminating the main cause of battery failure the developers claim that it will increase the life expectancy of the batteries by 3 times. For more: www.batteryreviver.com.au or phone 1300 852 433 •
for the ultimate end of year celebration book your golf day at brookwater now. Let your clients and staff know you appreciate them and book your end of year event at Queensland’s Number One Golf Course. With packages from $55 per person (for groups of 12 or more)
our Corporate & Social Golf Manager will ensure your event provides the “Wow Factor” with options for on course activities & delicious food & beverages. BONUS: Book your December Golf Event by 16 November 2012
& receive a gift (which can be used for raffle or prizes).
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For further details and bookings contact Shahaad Suleman 07 3814 5500 ssuleman@brookwatergolf.com
brookwater.com.au www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
47
The search is on for
AUSTRALIA’S
best amateur golf pair With over 50 events across Australia, the winning pair from every event will win a trip to play in the final at RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast. Open to all male and female Australian Auto Club members, enter online now!
Hole in one prize A Suzuki Kizashi up for grabs*
Only $30 per player. Register your pair now at
www.acgc.com.au
(Every player receives 6 free Callaway golf balls)
Major Partners
Revised
Auto Clubs
*Conditions apply
Supporting Partners
Original
Media Partners
events
It takes two to win The Auto Club Golf Championship The excitement is building around Australia’s newest amateur golf tournament, the Auto Club Golf Championship. “For keen golfers this tournament is simply a no brainer,” says Hayley Hunt, PGA Professional and Assistant Tournament Director. “It’s a great excuse to grab a partner and have a round that just might land you a trip to Queensland!” The largest pair’s golf event staged in the Southern Hemisphere, The ACGC will be played as a two-ball, best-ball Stableford tournament at 50 regional qualifying rounds across the country. The 50 winning pairs will receive a trip to the Gold Coast for three days to compete in the Auto Club Golf Championship final, to be held at the stunning RACV Royal Pines Resort over two days from February 28 to March 1, 2013. All travel, accommodation and golf costs for the 50 winning pairs will be covered, and finalists will also be treated to a Welcome Function and Presentation Dinner. Not only will the Regional Winners be enjoying two rounds of golf in sunny Queensland they will be hitting the RACV Royal Pines Greens in style in their exclusive pair of Championship Finalists Bolle Sunglasses. To qualify for entry into the ACGC, at least one member of each two-person team must be a member of any of Australia’s State and Territory Auto Clubs (NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAA, RAC, RACT and AANT). There is a one off nominal entry fee of $30.00 per person to enter the tournament. With no additional costs to play in the Championship Final, and your immediate bonus of a Dozen Callaway HX Diablo Golf Balls worth $30.00, this event is a ripper deal.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
RACV Cape Schanck will be one of the host courses to the new ACGC In addition, pairs who tee off at any of the regional events will be in the running for a bounty of additional prizes, including the chance to win a Suzuki Kizashi valued at $40K in the Kizashi Hole-In-One competition. Each regional round will also have plenty of bonus prizes on offer from the Thrifty Longest Drive to a Bushnell Range Finder Lucky Draw. The event is open to both men and women golfers 18 years and older with a current Golf Link handicap. The Auto Club Golf Championship has also been purposely designed to uphold the rules and etiquette of the great game and the Tournament Committee will be ensuring that those making the trip to Queensland will be there on verified merit, so make sure your Golf Link Handicap is up-to-date and one of your team has
a valid Auto Club Membership. Tournament Director John Harriss said registrations have been filling fast in each of the regional qualifying rounds spread across the country—with some pairs taking the opportunity to compete in more than one regional event, thereby doubling their chance of securing two tickets to the Gold Coast in February. Inside Golf is a proud supporter of this exciting event, and we look forward to bringing you reports and highlights each month. Stay tuned! Jump online today at www.acgc.com.au and register a team for your chance to become Australia’s Best Amateur Golf Pair. • *The event has been approved by Golf Australia for the payment of expenses (Rule 4-2g/GA/1/2013)
Golf Course Southern RACV Cape Schanck Oxley Golf Club Kingston Beach Ulverstone Long Island Kingston Links Darwin GC RACV Torquay Patterson River Mount Lawley Rowes Bay GC Victor Harbor GC Paradise Palms RACV Cobram Resort Darwin Palmerston Tewantin Noosa Golf Club Bathurst Ballarat North Lakes Eden Golf Club Capel Parkwood International 13th Beach Albany Berri Golf Club RACV Royal Pines Royal Fremantle Mt Barker GC Yamba Cardina Beacon Hills Launceston GC Bendigo St Michaels Toowoomba City RACV Healesville Federal–ACT Box Hill Chatswood Cronulla Cumberland Gosford Warrnambool Sanctuary Lakes
Date 09/10/2012 18/10/2012 25/10/2012 26/10/2012 28/10/2012 02/11/2012 10/11/2012 11/11/2012 11/11/2012 12/11/2012 13/11/2012 17/11/2012 18/11/2012 21/11/2012 25/11/2012 01/12/2012 02/12/2012 02/12/2012 02/12/2012 02/12/2012 02/12/2012 05/12/2012 06/12/2012 06/12/2012 07/12/2012 08/12/2012 12/12/2012 14/12/2012 16/12/2012 16/12/2012 22/12/2012 11/01/2013 13/01/2013 14/01/2013 18/01/2013 19/01/2013 January January TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA
Enter your pair in the Auto Club Golf Championship and get free, a dozen Callaway golf balls...
...enter now!
www.acgc.com.au www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
49
gps feature
Distance Go the
Distance-measuring devices are taking the golf world by storm. Now you can know the exact distance to the green, bunkers and lakes from nearly any place on the course. So which unit is right for you? Golf-lover/techno-geek Richard Fellner gives you an in-depth guide. “How far is it to the pin?” It’s a simple question, but absolutely critical to success on each and every hole. Get it right and you’re looking at a tap-in. Get it wrong, and you could be in that cavernous greenside bunker. Or the water hazard. Or in the thick cabbage behind the green. Determining distances on a course can be one of the most important activities in golf. But it can also be the most frustrating, time-consuming and mind-bending lesson in futility. While sprinkler heads, course guides and yardage markers can be helpful (when available), they don’t often tell the whole story. What if you are just trying to carry a fairway bunker? Or lay up short of a lake? Or play an approach from the wrong fairway? Without an accurate distance, you’re just playing a guessing game. And if you’re not 100 per cent confident with your club selection, the uncertainty in your mind can often translate to an uncommitted swing, resulting in a poor golf shot. Distance-measuring devices like GPS units and laser rangefinders are a perfect solution. With a click of a button, you gain absolute confidence of your exact distances; taking the guesswork out of
the equation and allowing you to focus solely on your swing (or simply concentrate on the other 1000 swing thoughts bouncing around in your head). And yes, they are legal. Approved for use in 2008 by the USGA and the R&A (change in Rule 14-3b), distance-measuring devices can be used on the course, provided that your club/committee allows it (check with your Club Captain for more on this). Best of all, they can speed up play immensely. In fact, that’s the reason why they were invented! Let’s dive in to the technology behind these units, and have a look under the bonnet. There are primarily two technologies in use for golf distance-measuring devices: GPS and Laser Rangefinding. Here is how they work.
Laser rangefinders
Laser rangefinders are small, handheld units that resemble a pair of high-tech binoculars. In essence, a laser rangefinder uses a laser beam to determine the distance to an object. By sighting an object through the scope (like a flagstick, bunker or tree) and then pressing a button, the unit sends a laser pulse in a narrow beam towards the object and
then measures the time taken for the pulse to be reflected off the target and returned to the sender. This gives a true line-of-sight distance to any target, in any conditions at any time. Laser rangefinders are extremely accurate and can work on any course in the world, without the need to configure a computer or use any extra hardware. This makes them ideal for a player who travels often, or who may not have regular access to computers. In general, many professional golfers and their caddies rely on laser rangefinders to give them precise measurements in practice rounds when preparing for tournament play. You will often see caddies walking the course in the days before a tournament, sighting distances with the rangefinders and then marking the distances in their player’s yardage book.
GPS Units
GPS stands for Global Positioning System, and it uses a global network of 32 satellites that provide accurate location and time information, anywhere on Earth. It works in all weather conditions, at all times where there is an unobstructed line of sight to the GPS satellites. Created by the U.S. Department
of Defence in 1973, the GPS Network is now used for activities like surveying, mobile phone operations, bushwalking, vehicle tracking, etc.
How does GPS work?
Each GPS satellite sends continuous signals to Earth, including the time, its unique orbital information and details about other GPS satellites in orbit. A GPS receiver – usually a hand-held or vehicle-mounted unit — collects signals from four or more GPS satellites, calculates its distance to each satellite (via measuring the transit time of each signal) and then determines its exact position on the Earth. From here, it easily determines its distance in relation to a series of fixed points on a map (like streets, landmarks, etc).
How accurate are golf GPS units? With recent advances in technology, golf GPS units are extremely accurate, and are more than sufficient for even the most experienced of golfers. But like most gadgets, accuracy is largely due to the quality of the receiver unit itself.
DISTANCE MADE SIMPLE
The new
GPS watch
Now available at all Professional Shops and Leading Retail Outlets
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www.gpsgolfbuddy.com.au
gps feature If the product is designed and manufactured properly, accuracy can be between plus-or-minus 1-2 metres, which is ideal for advanced golfers. In other GPS-enabled technologies, like those used in mobile phones, the accuracy can be plus-orminus 10 metres. GPS accuracy can be affected by a number of factors. Radio ‘noise’, interference and large objects like mountains or trees between the satellite and the receiver can all affect accuracy by a few metres. This can be minimised, however, via a variety of technologies like AGPS, DGPS and WAAS, which use surface-based information (like phone towers) to supplement to satellite signals. In addition, the quality of the course maps/data is also important for accuracy. A GPS unit compares its position to a pre-mapped series of “fixed point” data. When it comes to golf, the fixed points include the front/middle/back of each green, edges of bunkers, hazards, etc. And as these points are not automatically registered in a Satellite/Google Map, they usually need to be mapped manually. There are basically two ways that course data is mapped for golf GPS units. A “professionally-mapped” course usually entails a manufacturer’s representative walking the course with sophisticated GPS mapping equipment. This is generally accepted as the most accurate method, though it can be expensive and time-consuming for a company. Other professional mappings are done via computer on maps (like Google Earth), or other geotagging software. While this is cheaper, it relies on the accuracy and currency of the satellite maps (new or recently renovated golf courses may not be accurately represented on the map). “Player Mapped” courses are the alternative. This usually entails a player using their GPS unit to map or update a course while playing. While this can be more cost-effective for a company, the potential downside is that the data itself can be prone to user error or differences in opinion (i.e. determining the exact front edge of a green can be open to interpretation).
(very cool!), check scores on a PGA TOUR event, receive weather alerts or even see the distance to other carts in the group ahead (helpful when determining if it is safe to tee off). In addition, a course can use the unit as a revenue generator by inserting advertising or specials. With some systems, the course can track a group’s progress and even initiate automated “speed up” alerts if the group is playing too slowly.
Which technology/unit is the best?
Using GPS on the course
Golf GPS units are extremely user-friendly, and offer heaps of information. Most units require you to first download the course map prior to playing. This is usually done on your home computer (but some newer units these days come with a full database of courses pre-loaded and ready to go). All units allow you to store multiple course maps on the unit at one time. When you arrive at the course, you simply turn the unit on, wait a few moments for it to determine your location (the unit can recognise which course you are near, based on your GPS location), and you’re ready to play. When you’re faced with a shot, you simply press a button and look at the screen. You are given the exact yardages to the front, middle and back of the green, as well as (on some units) distances to hazards or even lay-up zones. Some units show a map of the hole (useful if you’ve never played that course before), while others even give a video “flyover”.
One of the more useful features on GPS units is the ability to track the distance of shots hit. After hitting a mammoth drive, for example, you simply hit a button and then travel to your ball. The unit measures precisely how far your drive went (great for boasting to your mates later). More importantly, it will help you track distances for every club in your bag; so you’ll know with certainty, for example, just how far you regularly hit your 8-iron. Most units offer scorekeeping and stats tracking. Fairways hit/missed, GIR, sand saves, putts, penalty shots...it’s all there for post-round analysis. Synchronise it with your computer, or upload it to a website, and you can see detailed stats for all your rounds, and then identify areas of your game where you need improvement.
Cart GPS systems
Many courses are beginning to offer electric carts with built-in GPS units. These can be extremely beneficial to both the player and the course, as some systems offer the ability to order food & drinks, view a live leaderboard of the current competition
There is really no single technology or unit that is perfect for everyone. They are all unique in their own way, each offering market-leading features that can be more suited to your own personal preferences or playing styles. Here are a few pros & cons to consider: • GPS units offer much more than just distances: with heaps of analytics and scorekeeping available, they can help identify faults in your game, and actually improve your play. • Battery life on GPS Units is also an important facet, as many units will require a full recharge after a round or two. In contrast, Laser Rangefinders have a very long battery life. • Laser rangefinders show the exact distance to the pin/target. GPS units only show distances to premapped areas/points. • Laser Rangefinders require line-of-sight. So if you are stuck with a blind tee shot, dogleg or an obstructed view of the green, then your laser rangefinder won’t be able to accurately measure your distance to the target. They also require a steady hand, especially at longer distances. • Not all courses in Australia have a GPS map for all units. Before you buy any GPS unit, check their website to see if your favourite courses are in their database. With those points in hand, here are some of the latest and greatest golf GPS and laser rangefinding technologies available in Australia.
After carefully reviewing all other GPS golf management systems, The Links Hope Island Golf Club in QLD Australia chooses Golf Pilot™. GPS Golf Solutions would like to say thank you to our newest partner.
Golf Pilot™ transforming the way golf is managed Golf Pilot™ is the most affordable and feature rich GPS golf management system on the market. Golf Pilot™ is a GPS asset management tool. Golf Pilot™ is under constant development and will continue to evolve. Golf Pilot™ fits any manufacturer’s cart. Golf Pilot™ new features include “Set the Pin”, “Stop the Cart” and “Set Advertising Zones” from the web based Dashboard. Hole 7 - The Dunes Golf Links, Rye, VIC Australia
For further information Email: Info@GPSGolfSolutions.com
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DISTRIBUTED BY: SOLUTIONS
gps feature
Handheld GPS units
GolfBuddy GPS World Platinum
The GolfBuddy GPS World Platinum is a powerful, interactive, touchscreen GPS rangefinder with an impressive array of functions designed to give golfers the ultimate game management tool. The unit comes pre-loaded with 33,000+ global course maps, so there is no need to spend hours at a computer screen choosing courses or changing the places you want to play. Just switch on GolfBuddy, and in seconds it automatically recognises which course you’re playing – and even gives an instant visual guide to the hole you’re on. Courses are mapped on foot — and by aerial photography with GPS-embedded technology —to give precise distances to hazards and greens – and you can even add or map your own targets. Its innovative Pro Play system allows golfers to track, record and analyse their own playing statistics, including greens and fairways hit in regulation and number of putts per hole. The unit displays full hole layouts, with distances to and from any point on the course shown by touching the screen. Touch bunkers and water hazards for precise distances to reach and
carry them – or identify yardages to safe spots on the fairway and plot your way around the course. You can even move the Touch ‘N’ Move flag to any position on the green with your fingertip or a tee. SPECS: • Rechargeable lithium-ion battery • No annual fees: Free lifetime access to worldwide golf course maps. • 10+hour battery life • Automatic course recognition • 40,000 course capacity • Direct overhead imaging for complete hole layout views • Multiple languages • High-Resolution Colour, Outdoor Visible, FullFunction Touch Screen • Shock and water resistant case
RRP: $499
www.gpsgolfbuddy.com.au email: contact@gpsgolfbuddy.com.au Phone: 1300 379 755
Sonocaddie V500
The jam-packed Sonocaddie V500 comes preloaded with over 1395 Australian hand mapped courses in 3D, showing course hazards, targets and their relative position on the hole, using a bright sunlight viewable touchscreen It provides golfers with precise distance information from any spot on the course. As you move to the next stroke location, your position is shown and the distance to each critical target is continually updated in real time. The digital scorecard automatically calculates the total score with a simple touch of a button, while the unit presents a summary of your round to analyse statistics and the score with a calculated rational and percentage. No registration is required for the Sonocaddie V350Plus and V500 units, they are both preloaded and ready to go straight out of the box. All Sonocaddie units have a shot distance calculator to accurately measure your shot distance when playing or practising.
Specs: • No annual fees • Stores up to 30,000 golf courses • Stores up to 100 scorecard reviews • Displays the distance to the green from any point on the course • Automatic Course Finder and hole recognition • 3º Sunlight Viewable Touch Screen with Touch Point Positioning • Satellite Imagery & Video Flyover (Available in Australia on selected courses) • Records locations for each shot right on the screen, and can automatically trace waypoints during the round. • 2 year manufacturer’s warranty
RRP: $489
Phone (07) 3491 3363 / 0414 741 514 support@sonocaddie.com.au
Bushnell Hybrid
The ultimate distance measuring device –a laser rangefinder with built-in GPS. The Bushnell Hybrid ticks all the boxes in a distance-measuring device, giving you laser accuracy with GPS convenience. In essence, it is the best of both worlds. As a laser rangefinder, the Bushnell Hybrid’s Pinseeker Technology lets you zero-in on the flag, giving you accuracy to +/- 1 metre. You can also get distances to bunkers, hazards, trees or even the players in front of you (to ensure they are out of range). For those times when you cannot see the flag (like when you’re in the wrong fairway, around a corner or on the wrong side of a mound), simply refer to the built-in GPS unit for your exact distances. Just like the Bushnell neo+, you get all of the precise GPS measurements to front/centre/back of the green, auto course/hole recognition, shot distance calculator and more. Specs: • 5 x Magnification • Up to 16 hours battery life • No membership fees • Auto Hole Advance • Distance to Key Points • 33,000 Golf Courses worldwide Pre-Loaded (Includes 900 Australian golf courses)
RRP: $479
www.bushnellgolf.com sales@championsports.com.au
www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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gps feature
compact GPS units
GolfBuddy Voice
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 which 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.
RRP: $225
www.gpsgolfbuddy.com.au
Bushnell Golf Neo+ Golf GPS Rangefinder Watch
The lightweight watch is simple to operate and comfortable to wear, giving golfers accurate front/back/centre and shot distance measurements on 25,000 preloaded courses with no membership fees. The long-life battery allows golfers to play three rounds or over 14 hours without needing a recharge (when the product is functioning solely in watch mode, the battery can last over 12 months). The neo+ Golf GPS Watch is capable of instantly recognizing courses and has an auto hole advance feature which automatically changes from one hole to the next. The watch also includes an odometer, timer and alarm. Specs: • Front/Center/Back distances with large, easy-read numbers • Shot distance calculator • Over 14 hours battery life in GPS mode • 12 months battery life in Watch mode • 25,000 preloaded courses • No membership fees • Waterproof to a depth of 30m
I’m Caddie
The latest in “Talking” GPS units, I’m Caddie is a small, light and sophisticated unit that simply clips to your cap or belt. Inside Golf tried this unit on the course last month, and we found that it does everything as advertised. Simple to use, it gives the distances you need at the touch of a button. A great little unit that looks good as well. Simply push the button and a friendly voice speaks out the distance to the centre of the green. It also has shot distance measurement and auto-hole recognition, so it always knows exactly where you are on the course. The long-lasting battery gives you up to 36 holes on a charge, while the unit supports up to 50,000 golf courses globally (with course database updated bi-monthly). The unit speaks nine different languages (English, Japanese, Chinese, Spanish, French, Korean, Italian, Dutch and German) and even comes with a magnetic ball mark. The Tour model also features a spoken “course guide” to each hole of selected courses, and a variety of changeable colour covers. Corporate packages available to get a personalised company logo on the unit, and voice intro to your course/company.
RRP: $169.90 (GST, P&H Included)
www.iamcaddie.com.au, Phone 0406 869 853 (10am – 5pm, M-F)
RRP: $229
www.bushnellgolf.com sales@championsports.com.au
On-Pin WR62 Designer Golf Watch
Featuring Front, Centre and Back measurements to the green as well as Hazard Distances, the WR62 has 25,000 pre-loaded courses with no membership fees. Simply walk onto the course and play. With a mineral crystal lens, and a stainless steel bezel, buttons and locking clasp the WR62 is reliable, durable and stylish. The rechargeable battery will last 11 hours on the golf course and 12 months in normal watch mode, other features include Odometer, Alarm, Date, Stop Watch, Timer and emergency location anywhere in the world. SPECS: • Hazard information and distances • 62-channel GPS receiver and dual processors • Shot distance measurement • Mineral crystal Lens • Waterproof up to 30 meters
RRP: $229
www.on-pin.com.au
CONDOR GOLF – MASSIVE RELOCATION SALE FOR OCTOBER ONLY. WAREHOUSE FULL!!
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• From Grasshopper UK www.grass-hopper.co.uk • Full Leaf Spring suspension • Curtis Controller • 36v/1200w power • Extremely quiet quality grease filled differential (from Taiwan – not China) • Headlights, Brake lights, Indicator lights – Suitable for a roofed mobility cart as well as a golf cart
• Alloy chassis • Hydraulic Shock Absorbers front and back • Curtis Controller • 36V 1200W Superb Hill Climbing Capability • Dimensions: L 1827mm W 860mm H 1100mm (fits 6’x4’ box trailer) • Improved reinforced PVC body
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• Powerful 800w motor • 2 x 55ah Batteries • Curtis Controller • Super quiet differential/axle • Wide (golf course friendly) wheels/tyres. • Nice sports styling with smooth lightweight covers • Halogen headlight, horn, reverse beeper. Also available in T Handle (with thumb throttle) version.
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These two piece flip down windshields are made of high grade fade and shatter resistant acrylic. They are lightly tinted to reduce glare. At 4mm thick, our windshields are 1mm thicker than standard windshields.
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THESE PRICES ARE FOR PICK UP FROM OUR KEYSBOROUGH VICTORIA HEAD OFFICE/WAREHOUSE. FOR SPECIFIC FREIGHT COST TO YOUR LOCATION (AUSTRALIA WIDE) PLEASE CONTACT US. CONDOR GOLF / ELDRIDGE GROUP PTY LTD Est 2000 33 KEYSBOROUGH CLOSE (at the end of Keysborough Ave) KEYSBOROUGH, VIC 3173 (By Appointment) 54
October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
TEL:
(03) 9769 1477
EMAIL: sales@condorgolf.com.au
gps feature
LASER RANGEFINDERS Condor Golf Laser Rangefinder
Deadly accurate to within a metre, the unit has a magnification of 7x, and a range from 5m up to a massive 1.5km (for purposes other than golf ). The Point and Press function is simple to use: just sight the object in the viewer and push the button to see the distance. Set to Pinfinder mode and the distance of the nearest object (i.e. the flagstick) will automatically be displayed. The unit also has Scan mode, which displays the distance to each object as you move the viewer from one object to the other. Comes with hard carry case. Uses 2 x AAA batteries. SPECS: • 7x Magnification • Accuracy: +/- 1M • Field of view: 105m/1000m • Water resistant • Weight:180g • Warranty: 12 months
Voice Operated Golf GPS
• Dimensions – 118x82x44mm • Battery: AAA (1.5v x 2) • Golf Flag measure range: 300M
RRP: $199.00 including freight
Contact Condor Golf at sales@condorgolf.com.au or call on (03) 9769 1477 www.condorgolf.com.au
Bushnell Z6
Instantaneously acquire flags up to 450 yards away with the extreme speed and incredible range of the Tour Z6. Vivid Display Technology™ ensures accurate target acquisition by shutting out background hazards and isolating your target, and dramatically improves the display for rapid, positive target identification in all lighting conditions. Includes PinSeeker Technology to zero-in on the flag, total range of 5 yards-1,300 yards, Waterproof (IPX7) and RainGuard HD lens coating. Vivid Display TechnologyPinSeeker Technology™ ensures accurate target acquisition by shutting out background hazards and isolating your target. SPECS: • Tour Certified • Up to 1/2 yard accuracy • Vivid Display Technology (VDT) for all lighting conditions • Adjustable diopter setting • 6x Magnification (objects appear 6x closer) • Premium lens coatings for superb optical quality • Rubber armoured metal housing • Posi-Thread™ Battery Door • 3-Volt Battery and Premium Carry Case are also included • 2 Year Warranty
RRP: $449
www.bushnellgolf.com sales@championsports.com.au
ate Corpor e a Pack g le b a Avail
Bushnell Pro 1M
New for 2012. With incredible ranging capabilities of up to 1 mile (550 yards to flag), Vivid Display Technology for all lighting conditions and unprecedented accuracy, the PRO 1M is the ultimate laser rangefinder for avid golfers and tournament play. Vivid Display Technology Vivid Display Technology(tm) dramatically improves the display for rapid, positive target identification in all lighting conditions. PinSeeker Technology ensures accurate target acquisition by shutting out background hazards and isolating your target. Re-engineered circuitry to maximize battery life, PowerBoost provides 35% more aquisitions. SPECS: • Tour Certified • PinSeeker Technology to zero in on the flag • +/- 1 yard accuracy • 7x Magnification (objects appear 7x closer) • Slope Technology which provides compensated distances for elevation changes • Posi-Thread(tm) Battery Door
go lised lo Persona e intro and voic
• • • •
Waterproof construction RainGuard HD lens coating 3-Volt Battery and Premium Carry Case are also included 2 Year Warranty
RRP: $549 www.bushnellgolf.com sales@championsports.com.au
CART-MOUNTED GPS
Golf Pilot™ GPS System
The new Golf Pilot™ GPS system is a unique, cart-mounted touchscreen system with a full set of features for both golfers and club managers. The system gives the exact distance to the pin (not just the front, centre and back of the green), as well as distances from the tee to fairway bunkers, hazards and OOB including the lay-up distance to any hazard. The “interactive crosshair” technology also allows a player to drag the crosshair to any part on the course and determine exact distances to the pin from wherever they are. There is even a Pro Tips feature that assists golfers wanting to know the best way to play each hole, weather radar and more. Golfers can even have the option to place food or beverage orders, which can be routed to a beverage cart or the kitchen. For the Club Manager or Pro, the golf club can run adverts/specials, or even show broadcast quality radio, TV, banner
or print ads. Every golf cart has two-way communication with the clubhouse and the pro shop can view every cart on the course (this helps speed up pace of play) and send messages to the carts. Golf carts can be prevented from entering “no-go” areas or confined to cart paths via geofencing. Other optional features include: • More than 30 available native languages • Live leaderboard for corporate and specials events • Scoring for up to four players including stroke, stableford and par games; tee time bookings; local rules including event rules; pre-event tags and cart assignments for corporate outings and more • Crash sensor to indicate when a cart has been in an accident • Social Media capabilities
Enjoy uninterrupted round of golf with accurate distance information • Simple to use – One button operated • Male/Female voice with 9 international languages • 9 Satellite reception • Accurate distance to centre of green • Also measures shot distance
• 13 hours of battery life • 50,000+ courses worldwide • 1,300+ courses Australia & NZ • Free update twice monthly • Most affordable GPS on the market • 5.3cm (diameter) • 33g (weight)
Available online www.iamcaddie.com.au
“Free Postage & Handling” Selected Golf shops and eBay Australia For any inquiry email info@iamcaddie.com.au
Contact: info@gpsgolfsolutions.com, 0411 110 119, www.gpsgolfsolutions.com www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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www.iamcaddie.com.au www.iamcaddie.com
Fashion Fairway
fashion feature
From the early days of the plus-fours and ruffled cravats, to today’s bright colours and plaid ensembles, golf and fashion have long been intertwined. Looking good both on and off the course is becoming easier and easier these days, with a massive variety of styles on offer. Here are some of Australia’s top products, services and shops to help you get your wardrobe looking top notch!
on the
Ready2Golf
Coolamon Sport Coolamon Sport by SunProtection Australia has a stylish new ladies’ polo that proves that long sleeves are cooler and more comfortable than exposed arms in the sun. Endorsed by Melanoma Institute Australia, the beautiful range offers maximum UPF 50+ protection while keeping the body sublimely comfortable and cool. The secret lies in the fabric’s construction, exclusive to SPA. Design aided by Lee Harrington, part proceeds
from every polo sold is donated to Melanoma Institute Australia, a world leader in melanoma research and education. Why pay a fortune for clothing that doesn’t protect your skin? MORE INFORMATION: www.sunprotection.com.au
Ready2Golf’s summer range hits stores this month, and you won’t be disappointed! Since launching the brand at beginning of 2010, Ready2Golf has established itself as the leading premium luxury golf clothing brand in the market. Why have Ready2Golf become so popular? Why are they stocked in leading Drummond stores and premier golf clubs across Australia including clubs such as Royal Melbourne, Kingston Heath and Royal Sydney? Australian owned and designed – they are popular because they deliver a superior quality product with impeccable tailoring, superb fabrics and a design edge. Their classic styling is timeless yet at the same time contemporary enough for the young and trendy, hence the brand is worn by golfers of all sizes and all ages. Get ready to wear Ready2Golf this summer -- you will find yourself looking and feeling sharp on and off the golf course. MORE INFORMATION: www.r2golf.com
ARE YOU READY2 TO LEAD FROM BEHIND...
www.r2golf.com www.facebook.com/ready2golf www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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fashion feature
The Belt
FIT39 Glove
The Belt is a one-size-fits-all customisable belt. Worn by ALPG, PGA players and leading amateurs, this unisex fashion piece is made from the highest quality silicone. It is safe, waterproof and colour fast. The belt width is 35mm to fit all shorts, skirts and pants. Just cut The Belt with scissors to suit your required length. The buckles are interchange between the belts, allowing you to mix the colours to suit your style. The buckles’ tongue and clamp are also fully interchangeable. The perfect accessory on and off the golf course. 15 great belt colours to choose from and 9 buckle colours. MORE INFORMATION: www.distinctivegolf.com.au Contact: 0408 330 800
The FIT39 glove is designed to fit almost any hand by employing a special multidirectional stretch material and special seam fabrication. The glove fits snugly, regardless of the position or movement of the hand, and maintains a powerful grip and supports the hand firmly, even after extended use. Practically waterproof, nonslip and fully washable, the glove does not fade or stretch out of shape and will not become stiff in your bag. Durable, breathable and long-lasting, it absorbs perspiration and dries quickly. MORE INFORMATION: www.distinctivegolf.com.au Contact: 0408 330 800
Icerays back hand cover After successful sales over the past 3 years of their top-selling Cooling 50+ Arm Sleeves, and numerous requests from golfers who use one glove, IceRays have introduced to the market a back of hand cover for the hand without the glove. They are UPF 50+, very light to wear and available in white in pairs for bowlers and other sports, or reversible singles for golfers, in sizes S-M for the ladies or L-XL for the Gents. They are packaged in a reusable bag. MORE INFORMATION: www.icerays.com.au 0429 690 662
Special reader offer: 25% Off Use promo code: IGMOCT12 on www.sub70.com.au. offer expires 15 dec 2012.
www.sub70.com.au
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October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
FJ Spring Performance Apparel FootJoy introduces the Spring 2012 collection of FJ Apparel. Led by two all-new contemporary colour collections, the spring line includes exciting performance pieces for all style preferences and playing conditions. Colours of the Whitsundays are vibrant and refreshing, featuring Navy Blue, Ocean, Yellow and White colour combinations. The design focus for FJ performance apparel is on one sport: golf, which is FootJoy’s sole passion. The Spring colour stories will feature both lisle and traditional pique shirts. MORE INFORMATION: 1800 660 535 • www.footjoy.com.au
The House of Golf As the old saying goes, if you look good, you’ll feel good. The House of Golf is home to all the coolest looks in the game, including brands like Ogio, Under Armour, Adidas, Callaway and Nike. From the basics such as pants, shorts, polos and rainwear through to the hi-tech such as compression tops and shorts, even underwear, House of Golf have got you covered, literally. Whether you are after apparel to keep you cool like the new ColdBlack from UnderArmour, or help you look sharp and impress your mates with more fashionable lines like Ogio, Aaron Baddeley’s brand of choice, they have the lot. So if you want to put a spring in your step with a hip new look, or are looking for clothes that deliver on performance, House of Golf are here to help, all at the best possible value of course.
the new modern
golfer
To design the best sportswear, you must first create the perfect fabric.
Sporte Leisure is an Australian company with a commitment to ongoing investment in fabric research and design. Sporte Leisure’s easy-care, stylish and superbly finished sportswear provides optimum comfort and peak performance, on and off the golf course. For stockists tel: 02 9693 5777
PERFORMANCE GOLF-INSPIRED APPAREL WWW.SPORTE-LEISURE.COM.AU
fashion feature
MEGA Sportswear With the incidence of skin cancer on the rise, some sports companies allude to the protective qualities of their clothing but offer little validation. MEGA AUSTRALIA designs lightweight, fashionable sports clothes which are 97.5% resistant to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Now available online and at selected retail outlets, MEGA AUSTRALIA clothing is tested by leading independent German company, TÜVRheinland. Both its mens and womens summer and winter ranges have an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 50+. It is the highest UPF rating available for clothing and ensures excellent protection against the damaging Aussie sun.
SA N PA D AR ESTE T
“MEGA’s chinos are so comfortable, I always wear them when I am going out with my friends as well as when I am playing golf,” says brand ambassador Alex Katholos, a 22-year-old upand-coming professional. Made from cool cotton and microfibres, MEGA AUSTRALIA clothes have a light, barely there feel. With a unique compression stretch and fast drying absorption, they offer maximum comfort and support during exercise. Designed in Japan, where it is a market leader, MEGA AUSTRALIA sportswear comes in a variety of colours and styles including t-shirts, polo shirts, jogging pants and turtle necks. MORE INFORMATION: www.megaau.com.au
New Product!!
50+ UV Protective Handcovers Available in singles or pairs. Check our website for further details.
Have you got protection? IceRays arm sleeves will have you covered?
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New Niblick HORIZON Golf Shoe The Niblick Horizon is the new yardstick in style, weather protection and value. The Horizon is a lightweight soft leather upper shoe with a revolutionary new Rubber/TPU sole that reduces the weight but maintains the strength. The wide EEE last combines with the super soft foot bed and innersole to provide Niblick comfort. The Horizon uses a combination of a rubber nibbed sole with the superior “Stinger III” cleat from Champ with the quick fast twist fitting for great traction
and stability. Add to this a 2 year waterproof warranty via a full boot lining and, this shoe ticks all of the boxes. Available in two great colour ways, white with a nubuck tan trim, and classic white with black trim. RRP: $119.95 As comfortable as a NIBLICK MORE INFORMATION: www.niblick.com.au
fashion feature
Greg Norman Women’s Fashion – Bleeker Street Greg Norman Collection’s new women’s range has been designed with sophistication and intricate details that lends itself to the avid golfer’s lifestyle on and off the course. This collection contains a mix of sleeveless styles, polos, prints and splicing, shorts and technical moisture wicking skorts and pants. A sophisticated colour palette of Black, Scarlett and White. RRP from $69.95. MORE INFORMATION: Sporte Leisure 02 9693 5777 www.sporte-leisure.com.au
Sub70 Sub70 has captured a trendy audience in the northern hemisphere by offering an unrivalled selection of nearly 1,000 options for bespoke trousers alone, in funky tartan and classic tour looks, which are now available for just $99.99. The custom-made trousers are available in more than 600 different colour options while the brand’s stock trousers comprises three ranges, including a limited edition collection, and can be purchased from just $84.95. Chinos are now available in Australia for only $74.95. Golfers can enjoy a selection of polo shirts made from eco-friendly Polardry® material and shorts constructed of light-weight performance poly blend fabric to keep you cool under the burning sun, starting from just $59.95. For the winter months ahead, Sub70’s classic fleece designs are available in four different
colours – black, navy green and grey – and are made from 100 per cent polyester to keep you warm on and off the course. In addition, Sub70 also offers a range of accessories including belts, baseball caps and visors to complement your look. The leather belts are protected by a PVC coating for durability and the buckles are colour coded with a contrasting enamel logo for under $50. The company even offers a fully customised clothing service for corporate and society days to ensure golfers have a constant reminder of a memorable event. Hundreds of colours and options available. MORE INFORMATION: www.Sub70.com.au 0404 822 777
Greg Norman Collection’s Men’s Range Continuing with the “Performance by Design” strategy, Greg Norman Collection has launched its latest range of performance polos in a fresh summer palette of Cinnabar, Navy and White. The large selection of Greg Norman polos focuses on creating a stylish look while providing performance benefits to the golfer. Moisture wicking properties ensure you will stay dry, cool and comfortable. Available in micro pique, jersey and ML75 fabrics, these polos are perfect for the summer months. Added benefits of UPF 30+. RRP from $59.95 MORE INFORMATION: Sporte Leisure 02 9693 5777 www.sporte-leisure.com.au
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fashion feature
Greg Norman Collection sunglass range
Sporte Leisure 2012/13 Range Sporte Leisure have combined the latest style trends with performance properties to make the Summer 2012/13 range for men and women a must-have for the summer months. Designed in Australia for Australian conditions there is a strong technical emphasis of moisture wicking, UV protection and Anti-Microbial properties in both tops and bottoms. RRP polo’s from $39.95, RRP shorts from $49.95. More than 50 brand new styles are available in leading golf apparel stores. MORE INFORMATION: 02 9693 5777 www.sporte-leisure.com.au
The Greg Norman Performance Eyewear Collection conveys “The Shark’s” attitude towards to performing at the highest levels, while enjoying an active lifestyle. The collection has an emphasis on sophisticated style with function, resulting in sun wear that will perform superbly during your outdoor sport and transfer comfortably to your leisure
activities, looking great all the time. All performance styles include; • Full UVA and UVB protection • Oleophobic lens coatings that resist water, moisture and oils for ultimate clarity • Grilamid memory polymer frame material that retains its shape • Nose pads and temple tips increase comfort and prevent slipping. Lens options include • High Contrast – with increased colour definition and maximum clarity. De-centred lens eliminates distortion. Scratch and shatter resistant. 8 base curve for added peripheral vision on sun protection. • Glare Control Polarized – the addition of glare control for a clear field of view. • Extreme – Exclusive NXT lens technology for extreme colour definition and contrast. Cast lens for higher abbe value and clarity. RRP from $79.95. MORE INFORMATION: Sporte Leisure: 02 9693 5777 www.sporte-leisure.com.au
Kakadu kangaroo leather golf gloves Kakadu Australia quality kangaroo leather golf gloves have a lovely soft feel while being strong and durable. The kangaroo leather has sensational grip in wet conditions. They are great value for money as well as looking great. Available in black or white left or right hand and fingerless pairs MORE INFORMATION: 07 4128 8148 info@kakadugolfglove.com www.kakadugolfglove.com
LOOK SMART THIS SUMMER - SET YOUR GAME APART THE BELT.com.au AS WORN on Tour by ALPG & PGA members and leading Australian Amateurs
Latest Technology from Japan The FIT39 FREE-SIZE glove is a revolutionary advance in technology
FIT 39 GLOVE FROM JAPAN 3 million sold worldwide
The Belt – One size fits all customised belt ● In 15 great colours, waterproof, colour fast, practical, Interchangeable buckles ● Wear it on and off the course Look smart… Play smart….
Key features of the FIT39 glove: ● Arguably the best all weather glove on the market ● Fits snugly, non-slip, durable and fully washable ● Practically waterproof, allows the hand to breath, absorbs perspiration
Distinctive Products specialises in unique and innovative golf products from around the world All trade enquires welcome, visit our website you will be pleasantly surprised
peter@distinctivegolf.com.au | Mob: 0408 330 800 | www.distinctivegolf.com.au 62
October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
fashion feature
Fayde With summer not too far away, it’s time to start thinking about that outfit of yours. Fayde Golf is one of the fastest-growing golf apparel and accessory brands in Australia. Inspired by the passion that comes with the game of golf, Fayde’s team’s number one focus is performance with style. Fayde is golfspecific and their range has evolved to be a recognisable brand all around Australia. Developed specifically for golf, Fayde’s fabric gives you a cool, dry garment that feels so light that you won’t even know you are wearing it allowing you to “Feel the Swing”. This new range of golf apparel is great to wear both on and off the course. With a host of fantastic products in its stable such as Traditional Golf Polos and pants, fashion golf apparel, golf caps, belts, shorts, skirts/skorts for the ladies, Fayde has you covered on the golf course and just as importantly, off the golf course. You will not only feel fantastic playing golf in Fayde golf but off the course with a great range of fashion-after-golf clothing. MORE INFORMATION: www.faydegolf.com
Ladies Golf Boutique in Killarney Heights “Like kids in a lolly shop” is often the phrase used for those first time visitors to the Ladies Golf Boutique in Killarney Heights, just 10 minutes from Chatswood. The Australian-made and exclusive labels, accessories and huge variety of ladies golfwear sets this boutique apart and why it is busier than ever – 18 years later. Colour stories and exclusive collections are designed in sizes 8 – 20 with an ever increasing clientelle buying for their resort and travel wardrobe. There is a limited collection in each range
to ensure as close to a one off look as possible and always a sales rack to ensure a price point for everyone. Polos, Capris, Bermudas, Slacks, Skirts with co-ordinating accessories are just a few of the reasons that make this a unique buying experience. MORE INFORMATION: Hours: MWF: 9.30 – 4.00, Sat: 9.30 – 1.00p.m. 20 Tralee Avenue, Killarney Heights, NSW, 2087 02 9452 6046
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fashion feature High Tee Ladies How hard is it to find great ladies golf accessories? High Tee Ladies know the frustration – and they’ve now put it at your fingertips! High Tee Ladies specialises in quality, fashionable ladies golf accessories. You will find everything from dressy club covers, Swarovski crystal ball markers and a great range of shoe and carry bags, to gloves, socks and visors...all that little bit different to the average golf store offering. This is one store you must visit whether you’re looking for your everyday golf needs or something new. You’ll also find some great ideas for gifts and tournament prizes. The best part is that you can do it anytime, without leaving home and it will be delivered quickly to your door. New summer stock is arriving now, including best selling Evertan gloves. Visit the website to see beautiful accessories and purchase through their online store, mail or phone order. MORE INFORMATION: www.highteeladies.com.au 0419 501 229
Jett Sport Vest for golf The Jett SPORT HEAT VEST is designed to be worn under your golf gear. The patented Jett Heat Panel radiates FarInfrared warmth along your spine, keeping your core warm and effectively heating your extremities. The Jett SPORT Vest has been designed specifically to carry the detachable heat system inside the back of the vest. The 2 rechargeable batteries sit over your kidney area, not interfering with your golf swing. You can wear whatever you want over the top of the vest. Set your desired warmth by the RF wrist Controller. The whole system weighs just 500g. MORE INFORMATION: 0417 531 757 sales@jett.us.com www.jett.us.com
Precious Cargo New Twisty Cap visor Fashion on the Fairways has become very popular with outfits and accessories fitting into a “Lifestlye” . Precious Cargo, manufacturers of Twisty Visors and Fashion Bucket Hats including Wet Weather, are aware of the transition from golf to fashion. The NEW faux straw peak with Cap is fast becoming their best seller for season 2012-13. MORE INFORMATION: Call 1300 309 299 to speak to Julie, who will make a Twisty Cap to suit you.
For ladies golf accessories
LIST LF SPECIA LADIES GO
OW, k arriving N back. c to s r e m ves are NEW Sum Evertan Glo g in ll e s t s be nd Style r, Quality a u lo o C r fo e. Visit us e golf cours th ff o r o n o
BUY online, mail, phone 64
highteeladies.com.au
October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
Ph: 0419 501229
fashion feature GolfKnickers.com GolfKnickers.com is the world leader in traditional golf apparel. Created and designed by an Italian tailor who has been in the clothing game for decades, they specialise in an expansive line of men’s and ladies’ plus-fours or golf knickers. The company has a full line of matching socks, caps, shirts, bow ties, and sweater vests -- delivering a complete outfit. Customers include corporations, golf courses (outfitting staff and patrons), school golf teams, tournaments and avid golfers around the world. After being in the business of outfitting the classiest of golfers for over ten years, GolfKnickers.com has built up the largest selection of golf knickers available. With over twenty different colours, thirty-four plaid patterns, and six unique lines of knickers, there is always something for everyone. They also offer one of the largest selections of argyle socks available with 92 different colour combinations. They ship to Australia daily and everything online is in stock and ready to ship (even large quantities). MORE INFORMATION: www.golfknickers.com
Cobra Puma Golf Cobra Puma Golf aspire to be the most desirable sports lifestyle brand in golf. Their rally cry “Look Better, Feel Better. Play Better” is a guidepost for everything they do and an engaging invitation for consumers to align with the Puma sports lifestyle and ramp up their game. A collection of sport technologies constructed to benefit the athlete, Puma Cell Technology is inspired by nature to help you play better and feel better. The goal at PUMA Golf is to bring their game enjoyment message to life through high performance and style-setting products. They believe the game of golf should be innovative, colorful, stylish and most of all, fun. MORE INFORMATION: www.puma.com/golf
STAY WARM TO PERFORM - WEAR JETT The Jett SPORT HEAT VEST is designed to be worn under your golf gear. The patented Jett Heat Panel radiates far-infrared warmth along your spine keeping your core warm, allowing your body to heat your extremities. Now cold conditions won’t stop you enjoying what you want to do - stay warm to perform, wear Jett.
Wireless RF temp. controller
ONE HEATING SYSTEM FOR ALL JETT HEAT PACK GARMENTS - The Jett Heat Pack contains: • Detachable patented heat panel - 2 settings 45°C (Lo) to 55°C (Hi) approx. • Wireless RF controller with wrist strap controls heat setting - no fiddly cables • 2 Rechargeable Li-Polymer Battery Power Pack give 4+ hours* of continuous heat on the low setting or optional Water resistant Battery Power Packs give 3+ hours* in water • Fast charger designed specifically for the Jett Heat Pack with 2 charging points. SIZES 2XS - 2XL
Like having the sun on your back, stay warm on the course for 4+ hours*
All Jett products come with a 12 month guarantee on heating element, switch/controller and charger. 3 month guarantee on batteries and vest. Jett will process orders within 2 working days. The delivery time frame for orders within Australia is expected to be a further 1-5 working days. For deliveries overseas the time frame should be 5-10 working days depending on location. * Heat time will vary according to setting and the ambient temperatures
Jett Showroom: Macro Race Products, Factory 3, 10-12 Thorthon Cres Mitcham VIC 3132. P: 03-9874 8744
www.jett.us.com
www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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fashion feature
Noosa Springs Golf Shop Ladies, look fabulous both on and off the fairways with a stylish golf and resort wear wardrobe and accessories from Australia’s finest on-course golf boutique at Noosa Springs. Since opening in 2002, Noosa Springs Golf Shop has fast gained a reputation across Australasia as the place to shop for the latest golf and resort wear, matching accessories and golfing apparel for women and men golfers. You’ll find many leading imported brands such as Sport Haly, Daily Sport, Calvin Klein, Jamie Saddock, Bette and Court, Oakley and Adidas which offer fully coordinated ensembles for men and women.
Vanity Fairways The Golf Shop was purpose designed as a retail boutique with subtle lighting and attractive displays which are colour blocked and themed. Buyer Kerrie Stewart, who has a keen eye for fashion, said women tended to buy a ‘story’ – such as matching pants, shirt, belt, shoes and hats. “Ladies from Sydney and Melbourne make an annual pilgrimage to Noosa Springs to update their wardrobe and enjoy some first class golf and spa time.” MORE INFORMATION: www.noosasprings.com.au Golf Shop on 5440 3333
get
rickie’s look for 2013
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October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
Vanity Fairways pride themselves on being the first with anything new in the way of golf apparel and accessories. Now, they are the first retailer in Brisbane carrying a new range from the USA called SPORT HALEY. SPORT HALEY is a beautiful range of clothing which will look great not only on-course but offcourse as well. The range includes shorts, skorts, capris, all styles of shirts as well as jackets and knitwear. There is another smaller range coming from BETTE & COURT. This label may be familiar to some, as Vanity Fairways once stocked the B&C long sleeve golf shirt with the mesh inserts in
the sleeves (some ladies are still wearing these, so the quality is excellent). They are now back in stock and there’s a gorgeous range of colours including Sunfish, Papaya, Pacific, Lime, Bluejay, Crimson. Vanity Fairways will soon be launching an Online Shopping Cart to make purchasing even easier….so keep a look-out for this in the next few months! MORE INFORMATON: www.vanityfairways.com.au 07- 3720 1237
fashion feature
SLIGO Wear 2012 Collection Sligo Wear, known for its trend-setting styles, cutting edge materials and vibrant colours, further enhances this reputation with the introduction of its “New Season” 2012 collection. A wide array of golf shirts, offered in 100% technical polyester pique or polyester interlock, are available in five stunning palettes covering the colour wheel: Maroma Fire, Atomic Sea, Atlantic Midori, Indigo Sun and Clay Smoke. Several sublimation prints are available in 100% technical polyester pique, a fabric that wicks moisture and contains UV, antimicrobial and two-way mechanical stretch. Within the shirt line are four new prints: Maddox, Adesso, Stratford and Haiden. These and the other designs showcase exquisite detail including front pockets, accent stitching, collar and placket piping. Long-sleeve golf shirts are offered in polyester dry-tech jersey. The shirt line blends European styling with technical fabrics today’s golfer demands. The company’s goal is to offer an alternative
option to golfers with a brand that holds true to its mandate of providing trend-setting styles with cutting edge materials and quality craftsmanship. This quality is reflected in slacks and shorts that are offered in a range of solid colours, plaids and prints, as well as water and windrepellent fabrics. The Preston line has pocket detailing and affords maximum movement. Incredible colours, defying golf’s typical palettes, incorporate bright hues including Atlantic (purple), Atomic Orange and Merona Blue. Shorts are also available in an assortment of fashion colours and plaids. The new 2012 line also includes two styles of belts, with the prominent S or Sligo script buckle and a full range of accessories, caps, t-shirts and thermal base layers. MORE INFORMATION: Walkinshaw Sports 03 9265 9550 Paul.Mooney@wsports.com.au www.sligowear.com
Susan Lawrence Golf & Resort LADIES DESIGNER POLO COLLECTION Ideal for * GOLF * RESORT * TRAVEL Celebrating 18 years and still 100% designed and manufactured in Australia. Now available On-line, Exclusive Golf Pro-shops or Ladies Golf Boutique, Sydney
Shop/Office/Enquiries: 02 9452 6046 www.susanlawrencegolfandresort.com.au
20 Tralee Avenue, Killarney Heights 2087 (10 minutes from Chatswood)
Tel: 9452 6046
spring/summer 2012/13 Spring/Summer Collections now available in fashion fabrics & classic styles in Sizes 8 - 20 POLOS * SHORTS * SKIRTS * CAPRIS + Co-ordinating and Exclusive ACCESSORIES.
Hours:- Monday * Wednesday * Friday 9.30am - 4.00pm
***
Now Open:-
Saturdays 9.30 - 1.00p.m. *** www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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clubs
Will Price be right for Howeston? David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au
IT wouldn’t come as a surprise if Terry Price drove through the front gates at Howeston Golf Course on Tuesday, October 9 and declared, “I’m here to play in the pro-am”. The 51-year-old, who plays on the European Senior Tour, loves going to Howeston and has been a huge supporter of the pro-am over the past 33 years. It will be a coup for organisers if the popular Queensland stalwart fronts up for the umpteenth time especially after winning the Pon Senior Open in Germany last month. Club matriarch Lynn Weston and her family certainly have their fingers crossed that Price will make the trip to Howeston when he returns home from Europe. If Price does play, he will be aiming to capture his fourth title at the course affectionately known as “Royal Birkdale” because it’s in the suburb of Birkdale in Brisbane. This year is the 33rd consecutive staging of the event and organisers are expecting a strong field of 75-plus professionals to take part. Mrs Weston said the ‘who’s who’ of Queensland golf have contested the popular pro-am over the past three decades. “Over that time we have hosted almost all the Australian professionals, except for Greg Norman,” she said. “Ian Baker-Finch played here in 1980 and shot a par round of 70. Peter Senior, Wayne Grady, Ossie Moore, Rod Pampling, John Senden, Peter McWhinney have all played here.
Tranquil yet testing … the picturesque Howeston golf course. “All these players were just starting their While Howeston’s tranquil setting is a major professional careers and now they are big stars and drawcard, the golf course does have its challenges we are getting the next wave of talent.” – especially when it comes to negotiating the Mrs Weston said it would be a thrill for fans if Price “Bermuda Triangle”. and Ossie Moore, who recently won the Queensland The “triangle” is the 363m fifth, 145m sixth Senior PGA Championship, turned up to take on and 580m seventh holes on the Howard nine. the young guns. (Howeston is a 27-hole course with three distinct “Ossie Moore has played in most of our pro-ams nines that have their own identity – the Howard, and told me he would play again this year if he was Weston and Westward nines). in town.” Over the years, many professionals and amateurs Price said he always looked forward to having a alike have come unstuck there. game at Howeston. All the players agree that Howeston is one big “They live and breathe golf at Howeston and they’ve family-friendly environment. been supporters of the Queensland Sunshine Tour “If you go out there on the day, you’ll see the for so many years. family barbecue going and everyone sits around “Why wouldn’t you want to keep going back there?” and has a drink before they play and it kicks on
well into the night after it finishes,” Price said. Howeston usually runs a raffle after the proam with some sensational prizes, thanks to the generosity of local sponsors. The pro-am concludes with a major highlight, which is the longest drive competition. Conducted on the first fairway at the end of the day’s play, it always creates plenty of interest from players and fans alike. Among the winners has been big-hitting Steven Bowditch, who once hit a 341m drive there. It stands as the longest drive in the history of the event. Rod Pampling did hold the record with 301 metres in wet conditions. Golf at Howeston is also great value with green fees only $16 on weekdays and $20 on weekends. •
in
cl
Fr e ud A e A l es l W d Lo e mis ng lco si Dr me on ive C om p
Major Sponsor
HOWESTON GOLF COURSE
Presents its 33rd annual $11,000 one-day pro-am | Tuesday, 9th October 2012 W. Weston, L. Weston and families wish to thank the sponsors who have made this event possible BMD Group major sponsor Yellow Cabs Wellington Point Hotel Chris Raggett Constructions Larry McFarlane Cabinet Makers Betabord Howeston Golf Course
Wednesday Club Shand Taylor Lawyers Allshots Ken Churchill All Car Brokers Birkdale Saturday Club Jenny Thomas Q Tech Linings
Capalaba Social Golf Club Club Car Kyreka Trading Pty Ltd Birkdale Tuesday Club D&A Bain Lew Noyes Dawn Breakers
OzDogs HJ Heinz Company Covering Australia Brisbane Pools & Landscapes Pinball Shed Go View Realty
Howeston Golf Course | Creek Road, Birkdale Qld | Phone (07) 3207 2452 Be there to witness Queensland’s leading professionals battle it out in one of the State’s richest one-day events
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clubs
New-look Trentham a big hit IT took 17 long years, but Victoria’s Trentham Golf Club finally got there, much to the delight of its members and guests. Last month the final stage of the club’s longterm development plan came to fruition with the opening of four new greens – the fourth, seventh, ninth and 17th. In 1995, the club voted to start the “Hartley Plan”, a comprehensive course redevelopment program instituted under the guidance of wellknown course architect and former Australian amateur champion Kevin Hartley. Trentham Golf Club captain John Hudson said the aim was to complete the development without any significant borrowing. So they set about rebuilding greens as finances permitted. “The major earthmoving work for all the greens was contracted locally and the remainder of the construction was done in-house under the supervision of course superintendent Bob Dobinson,” he said. Earthmoving work on the last four greens started in January with irrigation installed in February and the grass sown in early March. “Due to the abnormally wet and cold winter, the members have had to wait until now to enjoy the new greens, but their reaction has been overwhelmingly positive,” Hudson said. Club president Geoff Varley said the club was now providing an excellent valuefor-money golf experience for members and visitors. “The proof is in the results,” he said. “Since the course re-development started, we have maintained our membership while many clubs across Australia have lost members. “Our green fee numbers have risen by 330 per cent.
ROLL UP: Trentham Golf Club members test one of the club’s new greens. “The standard of the golf and the condition of the greens is second-to-none in country Victoria.” According to Varley, professional Mike Clayton played the course recently and described the greens as “the best he had played this year”. “We are getting a huge response from golfers now about the playability of the course,” Varley said.
“The club has a great future and the latest course improvements will only add to that outcome. We have spent over $500,000 on the course and we are seeing great returns for our investment.” • FOOTNOTE: Trentham is a one-hour drive northwest of Melbourne. The club draws most of its members from the western side of Melbourne.
Stay and Play with PGA Travel
Last month, the PGA of Australia teamed up with Teed Up Golf Tours to launch PGA Travel, a new enterprise providing golf-related domestic and international travel, and will offer exclusive ‘stay and play’ packages for PGA Tour of Australasia tournaments. “Each year golf related travel impressively injects over $400 million into the Australian golf and tourism industries,” said Brian Thorburn, CEO of the PGA of Australia. “Through PGA Travel, the PGA will aim to grow and leverage this opportunity for the benefit of the Australian industry, at the same time generating a new income stream to support our Membership and grow the game of golf.” PGA Travel will also play a significant role in increasing interstate and overseas visitation to PGA Tour of Australasia tournaments, which will assist in securing funds to support golf at the elite level whilst promoting Australia as a mustvisit golf destination. “Australia is blessed with an abundance of world-renowned golf courses and PGA Travel will provide a unique opportunity to capitalise on the significant participation growth we are seeing in visitors from the Asia region,” Thorburn added. Initially, PGA Travel will operate as a division of Teed Up Golf Tours, a respected operator promoting both domestic and international travel opportunities. To launch the new venture, PGA Travel has released a series of exclusive stay and play packages for the upcoming PGA Tour of Australasia season, giving golf fans the opportunity to rub shoulders with the Professionals and play the championship courses in full tournament condition. For more information on PGA Travel visit www.pgatravel.com.au •
www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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clubfitting
Inside Golf readers take the R11S Driver Challenge Inside Golf recently invited some Melbourne golfers to take part in the TaylorMade R11S Driver Challenge. Held at the impressive TaylorMade Performance Lab at the Melbourne Golf Academy, the golfers were put through a complete fitting and testing experience to determine their ideal driver specs, and see how their current drivers matched up to the new TaylorMade R11S. We’ve written at length about how important clubfitting is, especially with your driver. These days, a properly-fitted driver which is tuned to your swing can not only improve accuracy, but also net you more distance off the tee. These sentiments rang true in the Challenge, which uncovered some amazing results. First up in the TMPL was Darren Walton, 49. Darren is a 13-handicapper who plays weekly at Ringwood GC. Here are the “Before and After” stats from the fitting: Current Driver (Pre-Fitting) 9° Stiff (FCT- HIGHER, ASP – N, MWT- FADE) Launch – 14.5° Back Spin – 2623rpm Side Spin – 956rpm Carry Distance – 206m Total Distance – 228m
Fitted R11S 9° Stiff (FCT- HIGHER, ASP – C+, MWT – DRAW) Launch – 15.1° Back Spin – 2064rpm Side Spin – 212rpm Carry Distance – 220m Total Distance – 246m
Clubfitter’s Comments: “Darren’s current driver was not too bad for him. We saw some pretty good numbers but knew that we could improve with the new R11S with its extra adjustability and other slight improvements. The one main issue that kept popping up was that his clubface kept staying open, producing a fading and slightly weak ball flight. “With the extra adjustably and efficiencies of the new R11S we knew we were in for some really good improvements. Darren needed help getting the face squarer to help produce a more penetrating and straighter ball flight. We set the
thinking of Taylor Made, then I would not hesitate on suggesting that you visit the TMPL.” Next off the ranks was Graeme Herft, 45. Graeme plays off an 8.8 handicap at Patterson River. His stats: Current Driver (Pre-Fitting) Fitted R11S 9.5° Stiff (Draw Weights, STD) 10.5° Stiff (FCT- Upright, ASP- C, MWT- Draw) Launch – 14.4° Launch – 14.1° Back Spin - 3576 Back Spin - 2754 Side Spin - 916 Side Spin - 50 Carry Distance - 203 Carry Distance - 230 Total Distance - 221 Total Distance - 252
R11S to the Draw weighting position and also closed the face angle as much as possible. We immediately saw a much straighter ball flight but lost a bit of launch, so we utilised our FCT setting to increase the loft of this driver to 10.5°. This increased his distance by some 18m with a much stronger ball flight, a lot less side spin so the ball was going straighter and also an overall shot dispersion that was less than his current driver.” Comments from Darren: “The technology used in the fitting process is very impressive, the amount of data is staggering and an eye opener on how well (or not) you are swinging and hitting the ball! The comparison between my old driver, the new driver and then a variation of the new driver all on the one screen was impressive to see and be able to analyse the potential improvements from new clubs. “The technology is great for club selection but also as a teaching aid. I would not be surprised to see Golf Pros using this to teach people in the future. If you are thinking of new clubs, or
Clubfitter’s Comments: “Graeme’s current driver was a little inconsistent for him. The 9.5° was a little too low and Graeme was recreating loft in his golf swing — leading to a bit of inconsistency, as his face was staying a little bit open on average. “With the R11S, we put him into a 10.5° head to help him stay down and move more dynamically through the ball. We utilised the adjustability of the R11S by closing the face and also setting it to Draw weighting, resulting in a much stronger and more consistent flight, keeping Graeme more balanced throughout his swing. We gained 27m in flight, tightened up his dispersion and created a much more penetrating flight.” Graeme’s comments: “I have previously been fitted for irons, but never for a driver. It was a very challenging and unique experience. The testing facility was extremely hi -tech and very impressive, as was the data that was provided. “The entire setup was very unique, especially the way the sensors were attached and the graphics of my swing were displayed. It was the first time I had actually seen where my impact on the ball and clubhead were. “What I found the most beneficial was that in the beginning there was no emphasis put on the actual
“outcome” of the ball flight. All the data collated at the start was basically about the swing path, speed, ball trajectory at impact, etc. It was only after all of this was recorded and a driver was fitted to me did we look at the outcome of the swing and the ball flight. “The R11S was not only pleasing to the eye, it also felt very comfortable and to a certain degree “soft” in my hands. When asked to revert back to my original driver, I didn’t feel as comfortable or as confident as I did with the R11S. “The R11S may never get me down to a scratch marker but I am sure it would help me drop that 2 or 3 shots I need to reach a handicap of 5. Either way I am positive such a club would make my round more enjoyable and those tee shots a little less daunting.” •
WIN
TaylorMade Golf ATV Wedge The TaylorMade Golf ATV (All-Terrain Versatility) wedge has quickly made its way into the bags of many Tour professionals this year. Every curve, angle and edge of the ATV Wedge serves a purpose in elevating the club’s versatility. Relief at the toe, heel and trailing edge reduces resistance and significantly changes how the sole reacts with turf and sand, depending on how the club is positioned at address and how much the face is opened. Other highlights of the ATV wedge include a new groove design, as well as micro-textured flat areas between the grooves of the ATV wedge clubface. Inside Golf and TaylorMade are giving away an ATV Wedge to one lucky Inside Golf reader. Visit our Facebook Page (facebook.com/insidegolf or our website: www.insidegolf.com.au to enter.) Good Luck!
Bankstown Golf Club
BGC Membership Special
NO JOINING FEE (Limited time only) Sunday/Public Holiday only memberships now available for less than $25 per week. Competition fees only $6, Compare this to what you are paying now! Phone (02) 9773 0628 | Enquiries: gm@bankstowngolf.com.au | www.bankstowngolf.com.au 70
October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
clubfitting
American experts share clubfitting expertise A group of Australian PGA Professionals were recently treated to the latest knowledge, trends and tools from a trio of Americanbased clubfitting experts. Franchise members of On Course Golf — an Australia-wide group of PGA Golf Professionals providing professional advice, service and products through pro shops at golf clubs and courses – recently held their annual National Conference at the Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove. The goal of the conference was to ensure that group members stay at the forefront of the industry with tools and knowledge to help their customers get the most out of the game and their equipment. The conference gave members a chance to mingle and exchange ideas and see the latest offerings from 19 key product suppliers who set up an exclusive on-site trade show. The conference kicked off with some fun at the annual Group Golf Tournament, where On Course group ambassador Craig Parry played 18 holes of golf alongside On Course members and trade suppliers on the Palms Course at Sanctuary Cove. This year, On Course also brought out two special guest speakers from America to present on clubfitting – a topic that is vital to any golf professional or golf retailer in today’s golf landscape. US PGA Pro, Bill Price flew in from Georgia to present strategies on combining clubfitting and retailing. Bill is the Custom Fit Program Manager for Mizuno and discussed how to make fitting an “experience” with the consumer and how fitting has become a point of difference. He also shared the latest on- and off-course retail trends in the US market, and gave an overview on Mizuno shaft optimizer fitting and how it can be integrated with other manufacturers’ fitting carts.
Aussie golf professionals benefit from the latest knowledge in clubfitting Fellow US PGA Pro, Ted Gallina made In addition to the US visitors, an expat US PGA Pro, Paul Buchanan, led an interactive club fitting the trek from Wisconsin to discuss how to session on the driving range at Sanctuary Cove. Paul become an expert putter fitter. Ted is the is a Master Fitter with Henry-Griffitts and spoke Director of Instruction and Tour Development about the integration of coaching and club fitting. for SeeMore Putters. With On Course Golf As a result of Bill, Paul and Ted’s contribution taking on the exclusive Australian distribution of SeeMore Putters, Ted presented a brief to On Course’s national conference, the group’s overview of SeeMore’s benefits, plus a detailed franchise members took away invaluable learnings presentation regarding the SeeMore Putter and assets to implement in their day-to-day Institute (SPi). On Course Pros who complete business, club fittings and lessons, as well as the SPi course become certified in putting knowledge to help increase revenue through putter fitting and coaching. • instruction and fitting.
Ever dreamed of owning your own championship golf course? One of Victoria’s finest public golf courses, Eagle Ridge on the Mornington Peninsula, is for sale. Owned by the Russo family since 1995, the course was put up for sale last month, as the family has decided to pursue other business interests. The course is currently rated in the top 60 public courses in Australia and comprises 114 acres of prime Mornington Peninsula land with incredible views, all within one hour’s drive from Melbourne. The sale includes an 18-hole championship course, clubhouse with ballroom and full commercial kitchen, 50 golf carts stored in purpose-built sheds, maintenance facilities and a BBQ pavilion. Golf purists will appreciate the Santa Ana couch grass – widely regarded as the world’s best fairway surface–following a massive replanting and overhaul project in 2007/08 to increase water efficiency and to provide an optimal playing surface. Although offered for sale as a golf course and function centre with all furniture, plant and equipment, the site also allows for a wide range of alternative uses, including as a health spa (there’s access to natural thermal springs), through to serving as a premium private residence. There is also the opportunity for further commercial development on land adjoining Browns Road. Eagle Ridge will be sold via an expression of interest campaign, which closes on 16 November. The quoted price range of $7m-$10m is well below its estimated replacement value of $15m+. With most golf courses on council land, or owned through private clubs, the sale of a stand-alone golf course on freehold land is a rare event and one sure to attract wide interest. More info: www.ownagolfcourse.com.au •
www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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Australia’s oldest original golf course, The Norfolk Island Golf Course is likely the hardest ‘easy’ course you’ll ever play.
Richard Fellner richard@insidegolf.com.au
I wasn’t sure what to expect as I disembarked my Air New Zealand flight and took my first step on Norfolk Island. To be honest, I knew almost nothing about the island, apart from the fact that 1) it had a golf course, and 2) there was some connection to the HMS Bounty story. I was visiting Norfolk to play in the annual Hardys Wines Pro-Am Golf Classic, a four-day tournament that is extremely popular with many Aussies (you need to book WELL in advance to secure a spot). “Even if there’s nothing else to do,” I thought, “at least I’ll get in some golf.” As I was about to find out, Norfolk has much more than just golf. HEAPS more, in fact. A world away from the hustle and bustle of Australia, a visit to Norfolk Island is like stepping back in time. A journey to the quintessential ‘Small Town Australia’ and the simple, honest and organic way of life. Cows and chooks freely roam the island, everyone knows everyone else, doors are left unlocked, and the overall vibe is relaxed and carefree. Some 1400km due east of the Australian Coast
(a short two-hour+ flight from Sydney or Brisbane Airports, depending on the winds), Norfolk Island is a subtropical, peaceful and scenic outcrop that owes much of its current standing to its historic past.
THE HISTORY
Originally settled by Polynesians, Norfolk Island was colonised by Britain in 1788, where it served as a penal colony for the “worst of the worst” criminals until 1794, when it was abandoned. In 1856, the island was re-settled by the famed mutineers of the HMS Bounty, who migrated from the overcrowded Pitcairn Islands. Today, the descendants of the Bounty still make up the majority of the population – the phone book is filled with surnames like Christian, Adams, McCoy and Quintal. (Interestingly, the phone book also has a lookup by people’s nicknames — because what small town doesn’t have its share of people like “Spud”, “Diesel”, “Umi” or even “Farmer Teddy”?) There are also Pacific Islanders, Aussies and New Zealanders on the island, creating a mini “melting pot” of heritages. And while English is the main language, there is also the indigenous “Norfuk” language, which is a curious blend of olde English and Tahitian.
Moss Vale Golf Club is a golfer’s paradise Summer Special $220 per night for 2 people includes daily: 4 course dinner, breakfast, Accommodation, 18 holes* *Offer based on 2 persons per room in a standard room. Minimum 2 night stay, mid-week only. Valid 1st December 2012 - 28th February 2013
For bookings at these exclusive rates quote Inside Golf Ph: (02) 4868 1800 | www.dormiehouse.com.au 72
October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
The residents of the island wear many “hats”, and it is not uncommon to see familiar faces everywhere. The town pastor is also a bartender at the local pub; your waitress at dinner may also help check your bags at the airport the next day; even the local pig farmer might be the star of the evening’s theatre show. In its tight-knit community, the unofficial hobby on the island is waving while driving. A short trip to the market might see you “Flash the Norfolk Wave” 20 or 30 times to other drivers! By the time I left Norfolk, waving had become an engrained habit (which, upon my return to Melbourne, generated the odd stare from motorists. Oops.) One of the most amazing aspects of Norfolk Island is the freshness of the food. Very little food is imported, so most items are grown or raised locally. A BLT sandwich at a local cafe, for example, would use bacon from Farmer Lou’s down the street, Lettuce and Tomato from the cafe’s veggie patch out back (or from the Saturday Growers Market), and the bread would have been freshly baked on-site at the cafe that morning. This is the way dining was meant to be! The fishing is also spectacular on Norfolk. The lack of commercial trawling means that
the local waters are teeming with fish, including bonito, trumpeter (red throated emperor), tuna, snapper, rock cod and heaps of other creatures like crayfish and the like. This is great from not only a sportfishing perspective, but also from a fine dining experience, as your evening’s “Fish Special” at the restaurant was likely caught that very day. Amazing!
THE SIGHTS
There is simply so much to do on Norfolk, it makes your head spin. And its close proximity to the mainland makes it an ideal destination for a short break for couples, families or groups. My adventure started with a trek to the highest points on the island: Mt Pitt and Mt Bates. From these vantage points you can see the entire island, which measures just 8km long by 5km wide. A short 20-minute hike between the two peaks gives you the chance to see much of the native flora and fauna, as well as some historical artefacts, including various items left over from WWII, when Norfolk served as a key airbase. We were fortunate to get a tour from Rick Kleiner (owner of Rick’s Personal Island Tours). Rick is extremely knowledgeable and affable, and he is “The Guy” when you want to know something about Norfolk.
2 Day Golf School at Moss Vale Golf Club Receive expert tuition from club professional Robert Kennedy in all facets of the game, while staying on course at the beautiful Dormie House. Package Includes: • 3 Nights accommodation • Morning tea & Lunch on • 3 Buffet Breakfasts two days • 3 Dinners • Professional Tuition Dates: 21st, 22nd, 23rd November 2012, 17th - 20th February and 15th - 18th May 2013
Cost: $599 p/p twin share, $699 single
Bookings through Dormie House phone: (02) 4868 1800
*Group sizes are limited to 8 people
golf travel The island enjoys a very consistent and mild climate, with temperatures ranging between 24-28 degrees in the summer, and around 19-21 degrees in the winter. This makes it perfect for things like snorkelling (especially in the safe and secluded Emily Bay), windsurfing, hiking, bike riding, bushwalking, fishing and even whale watching. You could explore the historic ruins of the Kingston penal colony (with its dark and bone-chilling past), step foot on oldest cricket pitch in southern hemisphere, enjoy a stroll in the botanic gardens, or treat the kids to a round of mini golf (complete with “Haunted House” hole that the kids will want to play over and over.) Another must-see is the Fletcher’s Mutiny Cyclorama, an amazing 360-degree hand-painted depiction of the HMS Bounty, its crew, the mutiny and their travels to Norfolk via Pitcairn. If that isn’t enough, why not try some spectacular wines at the Two Chimneys Winery, which is a great location for couples or groups. The winery is operated by Rod and Noelene Buffet –a delightful couple who also run “By the Bay”, a top-quality guest house featuring spectacular views and amenities. (Tip: be sure to try one of Noelene’s famous “platters” which features a mouth-watering array of nibbles, cheeses, spreads and surprises!) Accommodation is plentiful on the Island, with a full-range of options to suit every budget, from “nofrills” hotel rooms to a full “five-start luxury stay”. Like many of the golfers in the tournament, we stayed at the Governor’s Lodge Resort Hotel, which feature comfortable and clean Bungalows, complete with sitting room, kitchen and separate bedroom. Dining on the island is a real treat. Our top pick is Norfolk Blue, a steakhouse that offers the full “paddock to the plate” experience. It features a rare breed of “blue” cattle (bred and raised on site) that is not unlike Wagyu/Kobe beef: super tender and amazingly delicious. It was one of the best steaks I’ve ever eaten. Other great restaurants we sampled include Hilli Restaurant and Wine Bar (fantastic fish!), Bailey’s (at Governor’s Lodge) and Chom Cha Ba (amazing “fusion” of Eastern cuisines).
Another highly recommended option (which we were unable to sample) is Dino’s – the locals swear by it! There are heaps of great cafes as well, like the Golden Orb Bookshop cafe, Olive, Tempo... really, though, you can’t go wrong.
The 4th hole is a real cracker. Hint: Aim left!
THE GOLF
Of course, we were here for the golf. And we weren’t disappointed. Located within a World Heritage site, the Norfolk Island Golf Course is technically Australia’s oldest existing golf course on its original site. In 2010, The Golf Society of Australia concluded that the course (originally named “Point Hunter Golf Course”) was built by convicts in 1843, and has not moved from the original site. Thus, it outdates the Ratho Links in Bothwell—which historians claim may not have seen golf until 1860—and New South Wales Golf Club, which moved from its original site at Grose Farm/Victoria Park to the current site at La Perouse. In addition, Norfolk Island GC also technically qualifies for “Royal” status, as Queen Elizabeth visited Norfolk Island in 1974 and oversaw the construction of the clubhouse renovation. Norfolk Island GC has been described as the world’s “Hardest ‘easy’ 9-hole golf course”. I certainly agree. It could also be the best 9-hole course you will ever play. Upon first glance at the relatively flat parkland layout – set uniquely in a links-style environment— one could easily become overconfident and assume that it would be a walk in the park. A few holes later, however, with a handful of bogeys on the card, you may need to reassess the situation. The real “teeth” of the course are found in both the smallish greens and the thick Kikuyu rough. The greens are tiny and generally well-protected by bunkers. They are a pleasure to putt on, but are deceptively difficult to read for pace and break. The rough that borders the fairways is equally tough, giving you either a flyer lie or a “grab the club right out of your hands” scenario. Indeed, hitting the fairways is critical on this course. The signature hole is the par-3 4th/13th, a great little 120m/145m hole that plays along the ocean.
The tiny green is tucked into a massive rock face, providing a very difficult target. Depending on the severity of the wind, you could hit anything from wedge to hybrid (or more) on this hole. The “bailout” area to the left is a safe option, but gives you a very difficult “up and down” for par. Just thinking about the hole can give you the yips. (Side Note: In my opinion, if the green and tee area were swapped – and you teed off from the top of the cliff-face— this could be one of (if not THE) most spectacular Par-3s in Australia, hands down.) Another great hole is the par-5 5th/14th. When played into the wind, it is a solid three shotter. Featuring a massive mound splitting the hole, OOB along the entire right side (including a cemetery), an elevated green and thick rough everywhere, it can make or break a round. Overall, Norfolk Island Golf Course was a real pleasure to play. Despite four full rounds there, we never tired of the course—which was in spectacular condition, thanks to the stellar efforts of Superintendent Grant Newman. We highly recommend you check it out when you have a chance. •
GETTING THERE Before booking any trip to Norfolk, contact The Travel Centre on Norfolk Island. General Manager Rebecca Christian (yep, a descendant of Fletcher Christian) can arrange absolutely anything and everything for your journey. A true one-stop-shop service! www.travelcentre.nf; phone: Int +(6723) 22502; Email: rebecca@travelcentre.nlk.nf.
Things to know Though part of the Commonwealth of Australia ($AUD is the main currency), Norfolk is also self-governing territory, so you will need a passport. You’ll also pass through the International terminal and customs upon return. Mobile phone coverage is charged at international rates, so be sure to either get an international SIM or adjust your mobile phone’s data roaming. WiFi is available at selected locations. Duty-free alcohol is available on the island, and you can get an extra 30% discount when you show your return Airline boarding pass.
See our entire photo gallery of Norfolk Island – including a hole-by-hole description of the course - on our website: www.insidegolf.com.au
www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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Best in the West From Seaside links to Country layouts to Red-Earth marvels, Western Australia offers a wide variety of the country’s best golf David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au
Richard Fellner richard@insidegolf.com.au
My regular trip to WA is quickly becoming one of my most treasured golfing treks. The weather is almost always perfect, the accommodation is comfortable and inviting and the golf is simply spectacular. And while WA may seem a world away from the East Coast, the trip is surprisingly quick and easy; after catching a morning flight, you arrive in Perth around lunchtime, which gives you plenty of time for a quick 18 straight away! There are heaps of great facilities in WA. Here are some of our favourites.
The Cut
The Cut is one of the most beautiful courses I’ve played in Australia. It is also one of the toughest. Like most seaside courses, the wind and elements play a pivotal role, and if you’re not careful (or smart) off the tee, you can find a cricket score in your immediate future. The Club, however, recently “softenend” some of the more difficult holes, creating a more enjoyable playing experience for all golfers. Located on a stunning piece of land adjacent to the ocean, The Cut has a predominantly “coastal” feel to it. As it wends its way up and down massive hills and dunes, the course feels like a natural part of the landscape, and you can be forgiven for becoming mesmerised by the views of the crashing surf or the fabulous ocean sunsets. But it’s best to keep focussed on the golf, as the course also features a multitude of blind teeshots
which force you to hit irons or hybrids off the tee, and then hope that you get a good bounce towards the landing area. One such hole is the 400-metre par-4 12th- the signature hole of the course. Do not let the yardage deceive you, as this hole is an absolute monster if played incorrectly. The smart play is hitting a low 4-iron off the tee, and letting the ball run downhill to the bottom of the valley. This will leave you with a 200-metre uphill, into-the-wind shot to a tightly protected green with a bunker on the left, OOB Ravine on the right, and the ocean behind. The wind is also a major factor here. Though we only had a 2-club “breeze”, we’ve heard of The Cut’s famed “6-club” howlers that can make a grown man beg for mercy. To be fair, I was begging for mercy despite the wind. All that aside, the course is very playable. The fairways, rough and greens are all in fantastic condition, and they play true and consistent. Also, the views are simply spectacular at The Cut, and
The Cut
you’ll not likely find many courses like it in Australia. The turn from the first hole to the second hole is breathtaking. The large expanse of the ocean on your left is very reminiscent of the ocean turn at Barnbougle Dunes. In fact, there are many striking similarities between The Cut and Barnbougle Dunes, and we would place them on equal footing in terms of “Play before you die”. The clubhouse and facilities at The Cut are top notch. It’s the perfect place to sit and unwind after a challenging round on the course. Contact: Ph: (08) 9582 4444 Email: bookings@the-cut.com.au www.the-cut.com.au
The Links Kennedy Bay Nestled near the seaside town of Rockingham, The Links Kennedy Bay is a superb facility set amongst rolling sand dunes. 1991 British Open champion Ian Baker-Finch collaborated with architects Michael Coate and Roger Mackay to
World Class Golf
in the Outback For a truly unique outback golf experience, come and play the brand new Graham Marsh designed championship course. Situated in the heart of the West Australian Goldfields, the Kalgoorlie Golf Course is rated amongst the best public access courses in the country. AFFILIATED COURSE OF THE NULLARBOR LINKS
Phone: (08) 9026 2626 Email: golf@kalgoorliegolfcourse.com www.kalgoorliegolfcourse.com proudly managed by
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west australian golf
The Links Kennedy Bay
Wembley Golf Course
create an exciting and difficult links-style course among the area’s natural bushland. The terrain at Kennedy Bay makes for some magnificent scenery, with the occasional glimpses of the ocean in the distance. The area is very reminiscent of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, while the gentle (or sometimes not-so-gentle) sea breezes add to the allure. What really grabbed me about the course were the extremely deep and narrow fairway pot bunkers. There is only one word to describe these nightmarish creatures: penal. These are the way bunkers were MEANT to be. In most cases, if you find a fairway bunker at Kennedy Bay, your only option is to ‘take your medicine’ with a 9-iron or wedge. Automatically add 1 stroke to your score if you hit into one of these little buggers (oh, and they are strategically placed everywhere that golf balls tend to congregate.) Each hole on the course is given a name suited to the specifics of the hole itself, like “Thread the needle”, “Sunrise”, “Temptation” and the bluntly named “Hell”, which is an apt name for the 520-metre, par-5 fourth that features a replica of
the infamous Hell’s Bunker at the 14th hole of the Old Course, St Andrews. There’s even one named “The Doctor”, which pays tribute to “The Fremantle Doctor”, the locals’ term for the cooling afternoon sea breeze which occurs during summer months. The greens are all very challenging, with multiple slopes and swales. They are magnificent surfaces, and they are extremely slick and true. Overall, it’s a great course to add to your must-play list. The Links Kennedy Bay also has some fantastic membership packages available (See the ad in this feature for more information) Contact: Ph: (08) 9524 5991 Email: admin@kennedybay.com.au www.kennedybay.com.au
Wembley Golf Course Just a few minutes’ drive from the Perth CBD, Wembley Golf Course is one of Australia’s most popular public golf facilities. With 36 tree-lined holes on gently undulating terrain, the course features two courses (the Old and Tuart) and is home to one of the best practice facilities in Perth.
The Swing Driving Range features an 80-bay fully-automated driving range (automatically teeing up a ball every 6 seconds), dedicated teaching bays, indoor fitting room (with all the leading brands available) SAM Putt Lab and Track Man Launch monitor plus HD camera systems linked to Dartfish teaching software. To back this up there is a dedicated short game area plus grass teaching tees and fairway bunkers. 8 PGA professionals are available seven days a week. The Swing View Function room located on the second level of the driving range is a great venue for corporate events, with sweeping views of the Perth skyline and golf course. This is all backed up by onsite physiotherapy, chiropractors and gym. It really is a facility where golfers of all levels can find something to improve their game. The hub of all this activity is the Golf Shop, which has to be one of the best on-course pro shops we’ve seen. Well stocked and large enough to handle the busy nature of the facility. The two courses at Wembley are very playable parkland courses, working there way through areas of Tuart and Jarrah trees. The Tuart course
is slightly tighter off the tee with greater elevation changes. Both courses offer a very good public access golf experience, with bent grass greens and very good kikuyu fairways, which is a credit to the ground staff considering they average 165,000 rounds a year. It seems like Wembley continues with improvements, as we noted several new tees being constructed during our visit. In addition, Wembley continues to offer great incentives for children to play golf. They play free with a paying adult during twilight golf (maximum three children per group) and the kid’s free afternoon continues to be a great success with 40-50 kids attending. Generally held on the last Sunday of the month, at no charge, children are given one hours’ tuition on the range with four PGA pros followed by an hour on the golf course. It’s a great environment for the kids to get into the game of golf. Contact: Phone (08) 6280 1300 Email: info@wembleygc.com.au www.wembleygolf.com.au
Swing into
Learn
Wembley Golf Course
Golf as nature intended Course design by Robert Trent Jones Jnr
No Nomination Memberships Now Available* For more information on memberships please contact: members@msgcc.com.au Visit www.wembleygolf.com.au or call the Golfshop on (08) 6280 1300.
Wembley Golf Course. 200 The Boulevard, Wembley Downs
Meadow Springs Golf and Country Club Meadow Springs Drive, Mandurah WA 6210 Bookings (08) 9581 6360 | www.msgcc.com.au | golf@msgcc.com.au *For a limited time
www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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Meadow Springs Golf & Country Club
Kalgoorlie Golf Course
Meadow Springs Golf & Country Club Thirty minutes south of Perth, near the coastal town of Mandurah, Meadow Springs Golf & Country Club is one of Perth’s most underrated surprises. The “sister course” of Joondalup, Meadow Springs features much of the same scenery and hole layouts as its famous sibling, albeit without the hills and rock quarries. At a recent visit, we were pleasantly surprised at the quality of the entire facility. The greens were extremely soft (with plenty of bite on approach shots), yet they were as fast and true as any course we played in WA. This is a rare feat, and makes the course a pleasure to play. The quiet, secluded parklands-style course feels a world away from civilisation. With few parallel holes, you can feel like the only players on the course, which adds to the tranquillity and enjoyment. Measuring 6189m from the blues, the course
offers a good selection of long and short holes. The par-5s range from 460m to 503m, but getting home in two is no easy task for any of them. The course is guarded by plenty of bunkers, native trees, and a very thick/dense couch rough – which can swallow your ball and make it nigh impossible for a clean shot. That said, the fairways are generally wide enough to avoid trouble. That is, except for the very tight 5th and 6th, which require you to drive your ball through a tight “tunnel” of trees. The course features some really strong par-3s, including the 160m 8th which requires a solid teeshot over a massive lake. This little gem is followed by the 396m par-4 9th, which is guarded by an even larger lake on the right. You need a solid drive to clear the first part of the lake, or else you’ll be stuck in the thick couch rough, with little chance of getting home in two. Overall, we were very pleased with Meadow Springs, and would highly recommend it.
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• Listed in the Rolex top 1000 courses in the world 2011 • Consistently ranked in the top 20 courses in Australia (Australian Golf Digest) • No 6 Public Access course in Australia (Golf Course Guide 2012) • Range of membership packages available • Driving range open to public • Fully Licensed Club House DON’T DELAY - WHY NOT JOIN TODAY? For more information call (08) 9524 5991 or visit our website
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Kalgoorlie Golf Course is an absolute gem, and may very well be one of the most “Australian” courses you will ever play. Designed by Graham Marsh, and owned by the city of KalgoorlieBoulder, this 18-hole par-72 championship course features an extremely playable layout, set in one of the most magnificent settings in the country. With six different tee boxes, Kalgoorlie is playable for any–and I mean ANY–skill level. Played from the black tees, the course measures a staggering 6768m, making it one of the longest courses (if not THE longest) in Australia. The “public” tees are a more manageable 5933m, while other tees are available for members, ladies and even juniors.
KENNEDY BAY
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Kalgoorlie Golf Course
Most of the holes are quite straight and wide, meaning that you’ll be relatively safe to hit driver throughout the day. But that doesn’t mean the holes are easy; on the contrary, they are anything but. A few of the doglegs – notably the par-4 12th – will require careful club selection and course management if you want any hope of par. The same can be said for holes like the par-5 9th, which features a massive (yet narrow), threetiered green that slopes from front to back (i.e. AWAY from you), and is guarded by a deep pot bunker on the front-right. If the pin is cut on the first/front tier, prepare for an automatic 3-putt. The par-3s at Kalgoorlie are glorious, especially the 218m 8th. With a slightly raised green, strategic bunkers and plenty of danger on each side, it’s the type of hole that can destroy a scorecard. Especially if the wind is in your face. Same with the 202m 17th, which features its own selection of nightmarish bunkers.
The Links
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Email info@kennedybay.com.au • www.kennedybay.com.au • Tel 08 9524 5991 76
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a true links experience ve $40 off a R S 18 h
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The Cut Golf Course, Western Australia The Cut is Perth’s only true Links golf course, which draws similarities to the great links courses of Ireland and Scotland. Come and play The Cut - a “True Links Experience” Reservations: T - (08) 9582 4444 | W - www.the-cut.com.au | E - bookings@the-cut.com.au
WESTERN AUSTRALIA *Conditions apply. Subject to availability.
west australian golf
The Vines The par-5s are equally strong. All four of them are solid three-shotters, including the monstrous 15th. Nicknamed the “Golden Mile”, this 569m beauty features a blind second shot, a massive ravine along the right, bunkers at every turn and a very treacherous green. A par here feels like a birdie. Of course, the main feature of Kalgoorlie GC is the red earth surrounding the course. It not only “frames” the course in a stunning visual display, but it also provides a notorious hazard for wayward shots. Playing off the red earth is akin to a soft clay, and requires plenty of practice to master (I had plenty of practice during the round!). The same can be said for the various orange-coloured “waste bunkers” throughout the course: pretty, but deadly. The sparse surrounds beyond the rough means you’ll likely find your wayward shots. But it’s a hollow victory, as the numerous prickly desert shrubs and bushes provide their own layer of peril; it is nigh impossible to play out of many of them. Also, much of the course is slightly “raised”
off the ground – so if your ball rolls just off the fairway onto the red earth, you can find yourself wedged against a raised grass “lip”, which requires a tricky wedge shot to get back onto the fairway. Despite the fact that the course is still relatively young, it is already extemely playable. Most courses require years of growth before they are as playable as Kalgoorlie is today. The greens (Bent G2) and fairways (Couch wintergrass) are in fantastic condition. Putting is a pleasure, and the greens roll true, despite still being a bit firm in their youth. With a course of this calibre on offer, Kalgoorlie is a fantastic destination for a quick golfing holiday, corporate event or even an annual Social Golf Weekend, as it offers worldclass golf, comfortable accommodation, and a unique “frontier town” nightlife scene. (Hint: try one of the thick and juicy Pepper-crusted eye fillets at the Balcony Restaurant above the Palace Hotel). After dinner, grab a few beers and mingle with the locals at one of the historic pubs, or kick back in your room at one of the 25 local
hotels and dream about the next day’s round at Kalgoorlie GC. All in all, Kalgoorlie Golf Course is an amazing course with a setting that is second to none. We are confident that this course will one day find itself listed among Australia’s top rated courses. Contact: Ph: (08) 9026 2626 Email: golf@kalgoorliegolfcourse.com www.kalgoorliegolfcourse.com
The Vines Regularly rated as one of Australia’s best golf resorts, The Vines is surrounded by native bush with abundant wildlife, manicured gardens and the magnificent Swan Valley wine region. Two equally challenging 18-hole golf courses in the stunning Swan Valley await your arrival. With lush bent grass greens—among the largest in the country— unique bunkering and a beautiful natural layout, you will be tested on every hole while also taking time to soak up the surrounds. The 36-hole layout consists of two world-class
championship courses: The Lakes and Ellenbrook. The experienced golfers will find plenty of challenge from the championship tees while social players will have as much enjoyment from more generous tee positions. Together, the Ellenbrook and The Lakes layout hosted some of the world’s golfing greats like Norman, Player, Els, Langer, Daly, Sorenstam and Campbell during events including the Heineken Classic 1993-2001, the LPGA Lexus Cup in 2007 and the Johnnie Walker Classic in 2006 and 2009. The Vines, like all good championship courses, takes some thinking. Course architects Graham Marsh and Ross Watson skillfully and strategically used the stunning Swan Valley landscape to produce championship courses that command respect. The landscaping areas on the fairways are generous enough for the average golfer, but severe consequences await those who find one of the deep bunkers or grassy hollows. There is also plenty of water to grab wayward drives. The fun doesn’t end on the 18th green, with local wineries, art galleries, gourmet food and the Vines’ Resort facilities including tennis, squash, outdoor swimming pool, terrace barbeque area, restaurants, bars and gymnasium. When the day is done, unwind with a glass of world famous Western Australian wine and watch the resident community of inquisitive kangaroos gently graze in the Resort grounds. Contact: P: (08) 9297 3000 Email: bookings@vines.com.au www.vines.com.au
And there’s more... There are heaps of other quality courses in WA, like Secret Harbour, Sun City, Carramar, Mt Lawley, Lake Karrinyup, Joondalup, Kwinana…the list goes on. Whether it’s for a short golf break with mates, a family holiday or a full-fledged golf vacation, you owe it to yourself to “Go West” and encounter some of Australia’s best golf. •
WALK IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF CHAMPIONS THE HOME OF TOURNAMENT GOLF IN WA With the likes of Norman, Scott, Els and Westwood gracing the two championship golf courses, Novotel Vines Resort & Country Club, Swan Valley gives you the chance to follow in the footsteps of these champions and tee up in your own search for glory.
Enquiries: +61 8 9297 3000 www.vines.com.au Verdelho Drive, The Vines WA 78
October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
events
Holden Scramble Champions Tour to return to China Registrations open for Qld B&C Grade Championships
Earlier this year the winning teams from the 20th Anniversary year of the Holden Scramble were treated to an unforgettable experience when they headed to Guangzhou, China to play off against the Buick China Golf Club League. While the Australian Scramblers weren’t able to bring home the trophy in the inaugural year of the Champions Tour, it has been confirmed that in 2013, Australia will have a second chance to take honours, as the PGA and GM Holden recently announced that the friendly international challenge will once again take place, this time taking on a new look format. This time around, the top two teams from the Holden Scramble Championship Final will be joined by an additional two PGA Club Professionals, making up the squad of 12 players to take on the China Golf Club League participants. The Champions Tour will consist of a “home and away” style match, with all 12 players representing the Holden Scramble in a twoday tournament on home soil in March next year, followed by an away match to take place in China the following month. To enhance the team experience, the tournament will include a 4BBB event in round one, and single’s event in round two with the best 10 of 12 scores making the team score. The event which took place as a trial in 2011 was such a success that both the PGA of Australia and the China Golf Association are now offering players the opportunity to once again play in an international event, but more importantly be part of a truly memorable golfing experience with their Asia-Pacific counterparts.
Adele Brimmer, who was part of the winning Cromer Golf Club women’s team in 2011, is still revelling in her team’s success and subsequent trip to China. “Upon our arrival in China we were greeted by film crews, photographers and other media. We were showered with gifts upon our arrival there and for our entire stay, we were treated like royalty,” said Brimmer “This was the first time this event had taken place and the organisers did a great job. The course was magnificent, the golf was amazing and the experience is one that will never be forgotten, we had the times of our lives! It was
a shame we didn’t win but that didn’t take any of the gloss off our trip, my Holden Scramble experience was the thrill of a lifetime. My team and I are still on cloud nine and will be for a long time to come.” The 2013 Champions Tour event between Australia and China is sure to be another week of fun between countries that love their golf. Make sure you get amongst the Holden Scramble in 2012 and hopefully we’ll see you in China! For more information on becoming involved in a Holden Scramble event, please contact the PGA Events Division on (03) 8320 1999 or email holdenscramble@pga.org.au •
Let Noosa Springs bring out the best golfer in you by registering for the Calvin Klein Queensland B&C Grade Championships, November 30 – December 2. Now in its seventh successful year, the competition was designed by Noosa Springs to give golfers with higher handicaps a Queensland championship to play. The three-day competition will be played over 54 holes of Stableford play. It’s open to all male amateur golfers with a handicap between 11-36 and all female amateur golfers with a handicap between 1845. And you don’t have to be a club champion to enter. The entire field will contest all three rounds –18 holes each day –and the men’s and women’s winners for each B&C category will be the persons with the highest aggregate scores. Get bitten by the golfing bug at the Thursday evening cocktail party. The trophy and fabulous prizes, which could be within your reach, will be on display. The golfing fun is rounded off with a presentation on the Sunday afternoon (December 2). Registration is $299 which includes three rounds of championship golf, admission to the opening night cocktail party, presentation afternoon and a commemorative gift from Calvin Klein. To register for the competition or to find out about golf specials visit www.noosasprings.com.au or phone the Golf Shop on (07) 5440 3333. •
ALCO BATTERY SALES AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND Competitive Summary www.alcobatt.com.au - Phone: 1300 883 643 •
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www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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events
Watch the stars at Keperra Bowl THE Keperra Bowl has always attracted the cream of the amateur crop and this month’s national ranking event is no different. Played at the picturesque Keperra Country Golf Club in Brisbane, the Bowl has been won by Marc Leishman, Matt Griffin and Andrew Dodt. All three are making every post a winner in the professional ranks. Leishman is now one of the stars on the US PGA Tour following his win at the Travelers Championship recently. So, who of today’s current crop of star amateurs will step up and have their name etched on the prestigious trophy? Ranked number one and two in Australia, Daniel Nisbet (Qld) and Jake Higginbottom (NSW) have already won the Keperra Bowl are expected to play and challenge for the title from October 16-19. Nisbet, who plays out of Caboolture Golf Club, recently won the US Players Amateur Championship and the Lake Macquarie Amateur Championship. And he is one of the few amateurs who have shot a 59 off the stick. Golf aficionados believe he will one day win a major. Higginbottom, who has a tournament low score of 62, captured the Keperra Bowl and the Queensland amateur in 2011 and earlier this year won the Riversdale Cup. Popular Queensland amateur Cameron Smith is another player to watch. He, too, is an exciting prospect and knows how to go low with a best of 63 at Coolangatta Tweed Heads. He is the Australian Amateur Medallist, was runner-up to Nisbet in this year’s Lake Macquarie, third in the Riversdale Cup, fourth
Keperra Country Golf Club INSET: Previous winner Jake Higginbottom will return to Keperra this year in the Porter Cup in the US and the 2011 Australian stroke play champion and Australian junior champion. The national 72-hole selection event has international status and recognised by the world governing body of golf – the R&A. Organisers Golf Queensland expects a topquality field for the event to be played on one of Queensland’s finest courses. More than 230 players on handicaps of 4.4 or less have nominated to play in the event. Keperra CGC general manager Gavin Lawrence said the course would be in pristine condition.
HUNTER VALLEY GOLF GETAWAYS
“We have come through winter reasonably well,” he said. “We had a wet beginning to winter and we are now seeing the benefits to the course.” Anyone interested in watching some of the world’s best amateurs should head for Duggan Street, Keperra later this month. Some of the names might be unfamiliar but these players are worth watching. For the record, Jason Day played in the event in his younger days, but couldn’t win it and we know how good he is. See you at Keperra. Entry is free. •
Barry unbeatable at 25th Hardys Wines Pro-Am Golf Classic
Neither rain, wind, thick rough or a strong field of opponents could keep The National Golf Club’s Michael Barry from taking the top spot (yet again) at the Hardys Wines Pro-Am Golf Classic at Norfolk Island GC. Barry fired a 54-hole total of 211 (5-under-par) to capture an unprecedented 12th Classic title in the last 13 years. The Classic, which is a very popular annual event for both professionals and amateurs across Australia, was shortened from the usual 72 holes to 54 holes when unseasonably strong rain forced the closure of the course for the scheduled second round. The final two rounds, however, brought warm sunshine along with the island’s famous coastal breezes, which forced players to bring their A-games to the course, which features thick rough, small greens and some of the most spectacular coastal views you’ll experience on a golf course. Professionals battled it out for $20,000 in prizemoney at the event, which this year celebrated its 25th anniversary. To mark the occasion, organisers introduced a set of champions’ “Jackets” for winners of the various divisions, which comprised both Stableford and Stroke events. With his win, Barry claimed the inaugural Gold Jacket, awarded for best overall score among pros and amateurs. Wayne Manager was awarded the Green Jacket (best visitors’stableford) with a score of 115 points. The Purple Jacket (best ladies stableford) went to Caroline Miratana on 110 points. Local junior golfer Beau Magri proved he is one to watch in the future, taking top spot in the Mens division to claim the Silver Jacket on 119 points. The Blue Jacket (best female amateur gross) went to Pat McCoy with a stroke score 268, while Alisdair Bosley’s stroke score of 220 was enough to claim the Red Jacket (best male amateur gross). For more information on Norfolk Island Golf Club: www.norfolkislandgolf.com •
RYDE-PARRAMATTA GOLF CLUB Social Playing Member
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PH: (02) 4990 1002 234 Wollombi Road, Cessnock, NSW 2325
www.thecessnockhotel.com 80
October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
Present this ad with your application & receive a complimentary 18 Hole Cart Hire
The Social Playing Member is our way of introducing new Members to life as a Member in a Private Golf Club. Social Playing Members gain an official Golf Australia Handicap administered by Ryde-Parramatta Golf Club which enables them to enter and play in our Friday Open Competition. Peace of mind. As a Social Playing Member you are affiliated with Golf Australia and as such are covered by an on-course insurance policy giving you peace of mind cover when playing on any course within Australia. Flexible option without financial pressure. A common barrier to playing more golf and finding the time to relax on the course is either time or cost. With this option you pay a low annual fee and pay as you play. If funds are low then take a break. Upgrade options. If you find the course and playing in competitions is to your liking you are welcome to apply to upgrade to a regular playing category at any time. $0 entrance fee - $275 annual fee. Conditions apply, please email subject SPM to golf@rydeparramatta.com.au for full details
www.rydeparramatta.com.au
1156 Victoria Rd West Ryde NSW. TEL: 02 9874 1204
events
October
Condor Financial Partners/ Portsea Senior Pro-Am When: Sunday 7th October Where: Portsea GC Info: www.pga.org.au/australia This event is part of the Patterson Legends Tour which is now in its second year. There are 10 different events played at different courses, mainly on the Peninsula. Organisers are expecting 50 of the best legends to play in each event. They will split into 25 as playing in an A.M and P.M format. This allows an opportunity for members to fill the amateur spots in these fields. Some of the names that will be playing are Dean Jones, Lucien Tinkler, Michael Harwood, Simon Owen, Wayne Grady, Rodger Davis, Michael Clayton and others. Corporate packages are available in the P.M field. This is a perfect opportunity to bring 3 guests to play the afternoon field followed by dinner at the Final Presentations for the Patterson’s Legends Tour. In addition, anyone can also enter in any of the events that make up the Legends Tour; details are available on the PGA website.
Tee off for Breast Cancer – Ladies Charity Golf Day
NSW Sand Greens Championship
When: 20th and 21st October Where: Walcha Golf Club Info: www.golfnsw.org
The 2012 Men’s NSW Sand Greens Championship, incorporating the 2012 NSW Junior Boy’s Sand Greens is open to male amateur golfers with a handicap of 27.4 or under, and will be played over two rounds of 18-holes. The Championship includes the popular team’s event whereby teams of three compete, with the two best nett scores each day counting towards the team total. Online entry is just $70, while all other forms of entry are $80. Entries close: Friday 5 October at 5.00pm. More info: christy.collier@golfnsw.org or (02) 9505 9105.
did not readily attract funding. The event is a team Ambrose Event (team of 4 players). Every player shares a cart. The event includes Breakfast
When: Friday, 26th October Where: Kooringal Golf Course- Altona Info: www.bluelight.org.au
Perth International
Where: Lake Karrinyup Country Club When: 18 to 21 October Info: www.perthinternational.com
Kooindah Waters Golf Club is holding their annual Tee off for Breast Cancer Ladies Charity Golf Day. The cost to play is just $65 which includes tea and coffee on arrival, golf clinic with Dennise Hutton 18 holes and cart, many on course activities, and prizes and canapés after the event. A donation to the BCIA is also included in the entry fee.
The new Perth International will capture the attention of golf fans internationally when it brings some of the world’s best players to Perth to compete for Australian golf’s richest prize purse. The Perth International is the only event on this year’s Australian tour to be sanctioned by the European Tour, creating the opportunity to attract big-name European players, with US$2 million prize money at stake. Tickets start at AU$44 and will be available online from mid July. Children aged 13 and under will enjoy free entry when accompanied by a paying adult. on Arrival, On-course Lunch and canapés at the Prize ceremony.
Australian Rotary Health: Golf for a Purpose
Women’s NSW Sand Greens Championship
When: 10th October Where: Kooindah Waters Golf & Spa Resort Info: terrydavies@australianrotaryhealth.org.au; (02) 8837 1900, 0412 229 994
When: 20th and 21st October Where: Cobar Bowling & Golf Club Info: www.golfnsw.org
When: 8th October Where: Kooindah Waters Golf Club Info: www.kooindahwatersgolf.com.au; (02) 4351 0700.
Australian Rotary Health is Australia’s largest nongovernment funding body of mental illness research. The genesis of Australian Rotary Health in 1981 was the mystery of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The Late Ian Scott, from the Rotary Club of Mornington, established Australian Rotary Health to support research into SIDS. As Australian Rotary Health grew so did the vision of medical research possibilities. Supported by Rotarians Australian wide, Australian Rotary Health was soon in a position to sponsor health research in areas that
BLUE LIGHT VICTORIA CHARITY GOLF DAY & AUCTION
For over 35 years Blue Light Victoria-- in partnership with the community and Victoria Police-- have delivered a range of youth programs across the State free from drugs, alcohol and violence. Although Blue Light works in partnership with Victoria Police, they are a separately incorporated organisation and as such are responsible for raising the funds for programs through partnerships, community grants and donations. This year’s charity golf event and auction will help raise much-needed funds to that end. Cost: $400.00 Per Team of Four. Finger Food Lunch at 12.15pm, followed by Golf Shotgun Start at 1pm. For more information: cathy@bluelight.org.au
32nd Annual Sapphire Coast “Week of Golf” When: October 20th to 28th Where: Pambula Merimbula Golf Club Info: www.merimbulagolf.com.au
The 2012 Women’s NSW Sand Greens Championship is open to female amateur golfers with a handicap, and will be played over 36-holes stroke play in two or three divisions (depending on entries). The Women’s RLGA Jug (handicap teams event) and Women’s SLWGA Bowl (scratch teams event) are played concurrently with the Championship. Entries are $40 per player. Scratch and nett teams are $5 per team. Entries close: Friday 5 October at 5.00pm. For more information contact Robyn at: robyn.newey@bigpond.com.
The Week of Golf is an iconic amateur golfing event in Australia, and widely regarded as one of the country’s best tournaments. Visitors come from every state of Australia and several overseas countries, with approximately 800 golfers playing a variety of competitions in a tremendously friendly, carnival atmosphere. Events for both Men and Women include 4BBB Stableford, Mixed American Foursomes, 18hole stableford and Mixed Canadian Foursomes. There is also the Men’s Open Tournament and the 36-Hole Men’s Open Championship. A full social programme is also arranged, with live entertainment, beer and wine tasting, etc. For more information: Phone: (02) 6495 6154 Fax: (02) 6495 6272 Pro shop: (02) 6495 6280, or email: info@merimbulagolf.com.au
A U S T R A L I A’ S M O S T R E A D G O L F M A G A Z I N E
Queensland PGA Sunshine Tour Proud Sponsors www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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events NATADOLA BAY FIJI CLASSIC
Where: InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa When: 24th–28th October Info: www.golfconcierge.com.au The inaugural Natadola Bay Fiji Classic is played on Fiji’s best golf course, Natadola Bay, with players staying in luxury at the award-winning InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort and Spa. Players compete in a single stableford competition over 54 holes in carts at one of the South Pacific’s true hot spots. In two short years, Natadola Bay Golf Course has gained a worldwide reputation as one of the best golf courses in the South Pacific and has hosted a variety of events including the Fiji Open Championship and the Nomura Cup. The event offers over $10,000 worth of prizes, including daily and overall winners for men and ladies as well as lucky draw prizes. For more information call Golf Concierge on 07 3857 1030 or visit www.golfconcierge.com.au.
Brookwater Championship Black Marker Challenge Where: Brookwater Golf & Country Club When: October 31 Info: (07) 3814 5500 Both Men and Ladies will play off their respective Championship Markers with challenging pin positions on every hole. A range of prizes will be on offer, including the latest in high-performance golf products from worldleading brand Titleist. The Brookwater Championship Marker Challenge has two more qualifying events –Wednesday 31 October. The entry fee is $90 per person, and is open to golfers with an official Golf Australia handicap.
GCSAQ Turf Research Golf Day
When: Tuesday, 30th October Where: Sanctuary Cove Golf & Country Club Info: Peter Lonergan 0417 778 056
The Golf Course Superintendents Association of Queensland Inc is holding a 4-Ball Ambrose golf day on October 30th.
Registration fee of $500 per Team of Four includes welcome breakfast, green fees, trophies, golf cart and lunch. Maximum non-AGU handicap is 18. Shotgun Start at 8.00 am. Entries close: Monday October 22nd.
November
Remembrance Golf Day
When: November 9th Where: Redland Bay Golf Club Info: (07) 3206 7011
“They served us, now we should remember them”. All proceeds from the day are donated to Legacy. $75 entry fee includes pre-game breakfast burger and post-game lunch burger. 8:30 am shotgun start. Book your spot by Nov 2.
Men’s NSW Country Championship
When: 3rd and 4th November Where: Muswellbrook Golf Club Info: www.golfnsw.org
Lifeline Northern Beaches Charity Golf Day
The Championship will be played over 36-holes stroke play, with shotgun starts on both days. The Championship also incorporates the Inter-District Teams Challenge between teams from District Golf Associations throughout NSW. The field is always strong, and features representatives from the NSW Senior, Colts and Junior State Teams, along with talented youngsters and experienced players from NSW country areas. An added incentive for the winner of the Championship is automatic entry into the 2012 Men’s NSW Open. Online entry is just $70, while all other forms of entry are $80. Entries close: Friday 19 October at 5.00pm. More info: christy.collier@golfnsw.org or (02) 9505 9105.
Australian Rotary Health: Golf For Research When: 23rd November Where: Twin Creeks Golf & Country Club Info: terrydavies@australianrotaryhealth.org.au; (02) 8837 1900, 0412 229 994
Where: Long Reef Golf Club When: 13th November Info: www.lifelinenb.org.au Lifeline provides access to crisis support, suicide prevention and mental health support services and also provides national services and campaigns that promote emotional wellbeing, encourage help seeking, and address suicide prevention and awareness. Lifeline invite local businesses and community members to support this key fundraising opportunity by participating in an enjoyable day at Long Reef Golf Club. The 4-ball Ambrose event begins at 12.30 pm (Shotgun start, registration at 11am), and includes a light lunch, dinner and beverages. Individual packages start at $165. Teams: $650. Silver and Bronze sponsorship packages still available. For more information contact Jayne Persico: 0421 527 574 or fundraising@lifelinenb.org.au
AVGU NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
Play golf with a purpose and make a difference to health in Australia by supporting much-needed research. The Golf for Research event is an Ambrose Event (team of 4 players), and every player shares a cart. Included: Coffee on Arrival, On-course Vegetarian/Meat Rolls Buffet Lunch. All money raised goes to Australian Rotary Health, Supporting healthier minds, bodies and communities through research, awareness and education.
When: 17th-22 November 2013 Where: Various courses Info: www.canberra100.com.au
The Australian Veterans Golf Union National Championships will be played on three of the ACT’s best championship courses which are in close proximity: Gold Creek, Gungahlin Lakes and Yowani. Monday’s event is a 4BBB. The Championships, played on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday are a
THE LANDMARK NELSON BAY $200 per person $150 per person
Nelson Bay
$310 per person $265 per person
res@landmarknelsonbay.com.au groups@landmarknelsonbay.com.au www.landmarknelsonbay.com.au 82
October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
events 54-hole stroke event in three grades. Ladies will play a 54-hole stableford event in two grades. Wednesday is a rest day to allow participants to take in many of the region’s attractions. The Presentation Dinner on Thursday 21st will be held at the Hellenic Club (Club of the Year in 2012). The cost will be approximately $250. For more information contact Paul Kringas on 02 6242 9013 or email paul.kringas@gmail.com
information, send an email using “Charity Golf Day” as the Subject to: rachelchriso@ymail.com, or phone Rachel at 0413 428 341 or Michael at 0412 304 190.
Australian Father and Son Open Golf Championship
Tournament Schedule: Monday 26th Nov – Practice round. Tuesday 27th Nov – 18 holes, am & pm two-tee start. Wednesday 28th Nov – 18 holes, am & pm two-tee start. Thursday 29th Nov – 18 holes, am two-tee start. Friday 30th Nov – Final Round 18 holes, am two-tee start.
Where: Country Club Tasmania When: November 30 to December 2 Info: www.australianfatherandsongolf.com
Daddo Charity Golf Day
Where: Moonah Links Golf Course When: 23 November Info: www.independenceaustralia.com Daddo Charity Golf Day is one of Independence Australia’s largest fundraising events. The not-forprofit organisation supports people with a disability or other physical need to regain, retain and extend their independence. Set at one of Victoria’s finest golf courses, Moonah Links, the day is comprised of a highly enjoyable round of golf, with prizes for the Longest drive and nearest the pin, the famous silent auction, winning teams, numerous activities around both courses and a delicious brunch and dinner spread. Prices: Single player registration $250. Team registration (4 players) $1,000 For more information or to purchase a team please visit www.independenceaustralia.com
3rd Annual ‘Team Chriso’ Cystic Fibrosis Charity Golf Day When: 30th November Where: Leonay Golf Club Info: www.facebook.com/teamchriso Help raise money for Cystic Fibrosis, an inherited genetic disorder in which excessive mucus clogs the lungs and pancreas, causing respiratory and digestive problems. The 2010 and 2011 Charity Golf Days raised a total of $36,500, which helped purchase much needed equipment for families battling CF. Organisers expect a massive turnout for this year’s event. Cost is $60 per person, and includes 18 holes of golf and Lunch. For more
future star. Volunteers are also needed to help through the week, with The Dunes offering incentives to all who volunteer. Please call the pro-shop on (03)5985 1334 for more details.
Share a memorable moment with your father or son in the upcoming 7th Annual Australian Father and Son Golf Championship. Last year, 50 teams of fathers and sons and even grandfathers and grandsons ventured to Tasmania for the two-ball aggregate stableford event. This year, organisers expect even more golfers to participate. For more information telephone (03) 6394 4158 or 0407 124 373, email eric.roberts7@bigpond.com or download the entry form from www.australianfatherandsongolf.com
Leading amateurs heading for The Dunes The nation’s leading amateur golfers will head to The Dunes Golf Links this November for the 14th running of The Dunes Medal. The 72-hole Open Amateur event has grown in stature since its inception to be recognized as one of the leading amateur events in the country. The first round is played on Tuesday 27th November, with the final round held on Friday 30th November 2012. Lee Park was the female champion last year with an 8-over total. Over 40 women will be vying for the coveted title again this year. Last year’s male winner was Todd Sinnott who fired a 7-under 281. Other notable past champions include local gun Bryden Macpherson (2008), Kieran Pratt (2009) and US PGA star Jason Day (2005). This year’s men’s event includes another strong field with a strong overseas contingent joining the 100+ Australians in the line-up. Spectators are encouraged to come along and spot a
2013 ACT Centenary Masters Golf Tournament When: 8th-12th April, 2013 Where: Various courses Info: www.actgolf.com.au, www.canberra100.com.au The ACT Centenary Masters Golf Tournament is open to all male and female golfers over the age of 35 who have an official golf handicap. The 72-hole event will be single stableford format with handicap divisions determined by entries with a minimum of two Mens and one Womens division. Daily prizes in each division to 4th place, nearest the pins for men and women each day and a ball competition each day. Overall prizes for each division to 3rd place. The event will be played at four of Canberra’s better courses, and as the weather in Canberra in April is usually very good, the event will surely be a hit. There will be plenty of things for non golf playing partners to do as well. Cost is $380 per player if booking on-line through MiTournament, and includes four rounds of golf, meals, gift pack and presentation lunch. Early bird special of $350 if booked on MiTournament before January 1st. Paper or emailed entry $390 ($360 early bird before January 1st.) Presentation Lunch only for non golfers: $55. Accommodation: 23 rooms available at Yowani Country Club for approx $130 per night – first in basis.
2013
swing into spring
Where else can you get the choice of 2 beautiful courses?
Spring package includes:
Monday to Thursday $89pp
✓ Green fee
Friday to Sunday & Public Holidays $109pp
✓ Cart hire ✓ Logo golf towel ✓ Powerade
Book now: 02 4916 0500 golfshop@pacificdunesgolf.com.au
✓ Bag tag
Open to the public 7 days
✓ Range balls
Championship Drive, Medowie
Terms & conditions apply.
www.pacificdunesgolf.com.au
No where else but the Forster Tuncurry golf courses on the majestic mid north coast – less than 3 hours drive from Hornsby. • Social golfers most welcome • Stay and play packages are available Ring Nick at the Pro-shop on 02 6554 6167 for your booking. • Enjoy a drink at the club after the game overlooking the picturesque Pacific Ocean. Forster Tuncurry Golf Club Tuncurry Golf Course Strand Street, Forster Northern Parkway, Tuncurry
www.forstertuncurrygolf.com.au
It does not get any better. www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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seniors VICTORIA Jackson maintains lead in Doug Bachli
2012 Australian Senior Amateur Champion Sam Christie shares his triumph with a gathering of previous winners. Left to Right: Rodney Barltrop (2004,2005,2009), Tony Gresham (1998,1999,2000), Sam Christie (2012), Bill Banks (2001), Denis Dale (2006,2007), Stefan Albinski (2008,2009,2011), Kemp Richardson (USA Seniors 2001,2003 British Seniors 2001, 2011 Canadian Senior Matchplay 2006)
NATIONAL Christie wins Australian Seniors Championship In a tournament played in a week of wild wind storms at Yarra Yarra Golf Club, it was Queensland newcomer Sam Christie who best managed the tough conditions and in doing so claimed the national title defeating a top class field of more than 130 senior golfers. Christie had opened with a first round of 77 in fierce winds to hold down third place behind leader Roy Vandersluis (NSW) on 75. The championship was then reduced to a 36-hole event after gale force winds made play impossible and officials abandoned play for the day. In the final round Christie was one of the earlier players to tee off and made the best of the morning conditions to play some great golf in finishing with a round of 74 and a 36-hole total of 151. He then could do nothing but sit back for several hours and wait excitedly before knowing he had won his first senior title – the 2012 Australian Senior Amateur Championship. In a tie for second, two strokes behind Christie were Queensland’s Peter King (76-77), NSW player Graham Blizard (78-75) and Victorian Greg Welsh (80-73). Blizard had opened the final day with a blistering three-under-par front nine to take the championship lead and on track for a win but he struck trouble on the closing holes including a double-bogey 7 on the eighteenth to narrowly miss the coveted title. In a tie for fifth place on a total of 154 were Victorian Barry Tippert (77-77) and West Australian John Wanless (78-76). Wanless played his final round later in the day and his score of 76 was the best of the afternoon players who
experienced more difficult conditions. Round one leader Vandersluis was alone in seventh place after following his opening 75 with an afternoon score of 80. Eighth place was shared by New South Wales seniors Richard Greville (8076) and Greg Stanford (82-74). Amongst a group sharing tenth place was the visiting American Kemp Richardson (8077). Richardson has won multiple British and American Senior Amateur titles and it was great to see this international star trying to add our national title. The field also included seven top class seniors from New Zealand with three time winner Rodney Barltrop and experienced Kiwi Barry Shannon the best placed in equal 16th position. The interstate teams event was won by the Victorian team of Alan Bullas, Michael Jackson, Ross Percy and Barry Tippett with a total of 471. NSW finished in second position.
Age winners:
More information on upcoming national ranking events and full ranking tables available on the AUSOOM website – www.ausoom.com
2012 Australian Senior Rankings Player Stefan Albinski Peter King Graham Blizard Roy Vandersluis Denis Dale
2012 Victorian Senior OOM Pos Player
Club
Events Best 8
State Events Avg NSW 8 132.42 QLD 8 111.36 NSW 5 95.19 NSW 7 87.50 NSW 8 81.13
2012 NSW Senior OOM Pos Player
Club
1
Denis Dale
Twin Creeks 17
Events Best 12 1670
2
Greg Stanford
Mona Vale
13
1600
3
Ross Bockman
Long Reef
14
1590
4
Steve Gibson
St Michael’s 17
1530
5
Graham Blizard
Twin Creeks 9
1435
COMING SENIOR EVENTS: Oct 5 Liverpool Seniors NSW Oct 8
Twin Creeks Seniors NSW
Oct 11
Windsor Seniors NSW
Oct 22-24 Victorian Senior Championship – Rosebud GC Oct 22
Merewether Seniors NSW
1286
Oct 23
Toronto Seniors NSW
1264
Oct 24
Waratah Seniors NSW
9
1189
12
1081
Oct 29-31 Australian Senior Matchplay– Twin Creeks GC
1 Michael Jackson
Yarra Yarra
13
1338
2 Barry Tippett
The Sands
11
3 Alan Bullas
Commonwealth
11
4 Ross Percy
Cobram-Barooga
5 Pat Giles
Goonawarra
NEW SOUTH WALES Dale keeps narrow lead in NSW Senior Order of Merit
Under 60 years–Barry Tippett (Vic) 154 60-64 years – John Wanless (WA) 154 65-69 years – Roy Vandersluis (NSW) 155 Over 70 years – Tony Gresham (NSW) 162
Pos 1 2 3 4 5
“Sandbelt Week” is over and as a result there have been quite a few changes on the Doug Bachli Trophy for Victoria’s leading senior amateur. Yarra Yarra’s ageless star Michael Jackson maintains his lead with 1338 points but he now has several new challengers. The Sands’ Barry Tippett has been in great form recently and takes over the second place on 1286 points and is certainly ready to make a move for the number one spot. Regular top performer Alan Bullas has also moved up the table and is now in clear third place on 1264. Ross Percy, the defending champion and a multiple winner of the title, has slipped to fourth with evergreen Pat Giles making it back into the top five. In the handicap section Yarram senior Ignatius Duivenvoorden maintains his lead but the gap has narrowed. He leads on 1090 points from Commonwealth senior Graham Bone (919) and Goonawarra’s Pat Giles (870). Further information on the Doug Bachli Order of Merit is available on the Golf Victoria website www.golfvic.org.au.
Clark Gibbons (851 points) keeping the lead from Wollongong’s Alan Fensom (789) who is slowly but surely closing the gap on the leader. Vince Clark (757) from The Lakes is in third place with Jack Parker (693) and Tom Yates (622) making up the top five. Postponed because of the weather earlier in the year the Castle Hill Seniors will now be held on Monday November 5th. There are still 13 events remaining in the 2012 NSW Senior Order of Merit Competition. Full details on all these events and the full Order of Merit tables are available on the Golf NSW website www.golfnsw.org.
Denis Dale, the defending 2011 champion, has kept his narrow lead in the 2012 NSW Senior Order of Merit competition. Dale on 1680 points leads from Mona Vale senior Greg Stanford (1600 points) with Long Reef ’s Ross Bockman (1590 points) very close behind in third place. St Michael’s Steve Gibson (1530 points) has climbed into fourth place with Graham Blizard (1435) rounding out the top five. The Over 65’s Order of Merit competition is another very close competition with Penrith’s
Oct 29-30 Northern Seniors–Gisborne & Northern GCs Victoria Nov 5
Castle Hill Seniors NSW
Nov 12-13 Melbourne Seniors–Spring Valley & Woodlands VIC Nov 13-15 ACT Seniors – Federal, Gungahlin Lakes, Gold Creek Nov 16
Goulburn Seniors
Nov 22
Moyne Seniors VIC
Nov 26 Long Reef Seniors NSW Nov 27
Cromer Seniors NSW
Nov 28-30 Asia Pacific Seniors HONG KONG Recaps by Denis Dale
mens & ladies
Queensland B & C Grade Championships 30 November ~ 2 December 2012 Open to all golfers. Women’s handicap 18 - 45 Men’s handicap 11 - 36. 3 Days of championship golf in one of Australia’s premier holiday destinations.
To register ph 07 5440 3333 or visit www.noosasprings.com.au
Only 3mins from Hastings St ~ Links Drive, Noosa Heads, Qld ~ golf@noosasprings.com.au
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October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
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the 19th hole
Fashion...off course
The quick nine quiz With David Newbery
ed@insidegolf.com.au
I think we can all agree that Golf fashion is a funny thing. Both ‘funny’ as in laughable, and ‘funny’ as in odd. Tartan pants, plaid jackets, long socks, tam ‘o shanters, plus-fours, plus-twos, the list goes on. Golf course couture is a strange juxtaposition of the prudish and the outlandish. Clothes that you wouldn’t be seen dead in sit seamlessly alongside clothes that you would be seen dead in. In general, golf isn’t exactly the most progressive sport. Any rule changes, clubhouse renovations or equipment modifications take a long time. Often, the only thing that moves slower is the group in front of you during a medal round, usually when you are playing good golf. But in contrast we have this fashion boulder that seems to be rolling along faster than ever. Plus-four’s and tam o’ shanters were, for a time, the craziest things you’d see on the golf course, but now white belts, shocking pants and tight (often collarless) shirts pervade golf clubs far and wide. It has had many of Australia’s restrictive golf clubs playing catch up as their dress regulations appear more and more like an edict from Roman times. If you think about it, it’s a bit strange to be wearing such stylish attire for a sport (or a game) that requires at the very least, an eight kilometre walk. If you left the house and told the spouse that you are off for a long walk in slacks, a shirt and a pair of dress shoes he/she would think you’re barking mad. Do it on a golf course and
you appear smart and until you hit the ball, one hell of a good looking golfer. For the record, I grew up on a golf course where if your socks were falling away from your knees or your shirt was slightly untucked, you would soon cop the full brunt of a look from an elderly member, like you’ve just crashed your car through his rose bushes. And perhaps for this reason, I’m not against donning some of the new-look golf fashion that, while not against the rules, must irk some of the more conventional golfing brigade. The biggest issue I have with all this golf fashion nonsense is when I need to take into consideration where I will be seen before and after the golf course. On a couple of occasions, I’ve decided to grab a quick coffee on the way to the game. Before I’ve had time to think, I’m ordering a flat white at the local cafe in dress shoes, some very loud pants and a polo shirt. To the initiated, I’m obviously on my way to play golf and looking like someone who is only hours away from 40 stableford points,
but for the uninitiated (of whom there are far too many) I look like an idiot who has woken up in the dark and haven’t looked in the mirror yet. “It’s no wonder he needs a coffee”, I can almost hear them muttering “He’s still got his pyjamas on”. The post-golf public appearance can be just as embarrassing. A quick stop for petrol on the way home can have one mistaken for a soft drink promoter or children’s party clown. I’ve become even more self-conscious when I meet a friend for an unscheduled dinner or drink on the way home. Those plaid pants that were very comfortable attire in the club house, suddenly become awkward and ill-fitting upon ordering the chicken chilli-jam dish at the Thai restaurant down the road. In short, I’ve two very divided parts to my wardrobe. The golf section, and the section devoted to every other occasion. And if I want to avoid a bout of golfing self-consciousness, never the twain shall meet. •
1. What male golfer holds the record for most US PGA Tour wins, with 84? (Jack Nicklaus is a distant second). Hint: He became the oldest winner on the tour in 1965 when he won the Greater Greensboro Open at age 52. A professional since 1934, he continued to play on the tour into the 1980s. 2. You carry a non-conforming club in your bag but do not use it during the tournament. What is the penalty? 3. What male player has been the leading money winner on the US PGA Tour the most times? 4. True or false: A golfer, after hitting a perfect drive to the middle of the fairway, can declare his ball unplayable because it is in an old divot. 5. Who has won the most Australian Opens in one decade? Jack Nicklaus in the ’70s or Greg Norman in the ’80s? 6. How many players represent their continent in the Ryder Cup? 7. What is the ruling if a crow picks up your ball and flies away with it? 8. In which country are the following golf courses – San Lorenzo, Praia D’el Rey and Penha Longa? 9. In women’s golf, which country has the most players in the top 500? ANSWERS: (1). Sam Snead; (2). Disqualification; (3). Tiger Woods (nine times), one ahead of Jack Nicklaus; (4). True; (5). Jack Nicklaus. Nicklaus won our biggest title four times in the ’70s (1971, 1975, 1976 and 1978) while Norman won it three times in the ’80s (1980, 1985 and 1986); (6). Twelve; (7). Replace it with another ball – no penalty; (8). Portugal; (9). Korea with 141.
Michael Green
t a e n i v u j e r d n a d n i w n u , x Rela
Accommodation only rates from $109* *Terms and conditions apply. Rates subject to change & availability. To book call reservations and quote source code GIG.
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October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
mailbox
Top Shots
Letter of the Month An i-rake reader I wish the powers that be in golf would get their act together and come out with one firm statement of where bunker rakes should be placed. My own club has a ruling that rakes are to be placed outside the bunker. The club marks the spots with spray paint. Well, having recently hit rakes outside the bunker on four occasions (and watched the ball fly from thirty to seventy meters away from the green) I do not agree with this placement of the rake. If you hit a shot into a bunker that is your problem. But to hit a rake outside the bunker and fly so far away from your intended position...? The positioning of rakes has now become completely ridiculous. It is common to see rakes being placed outside the bunker, inside the bunker against the edge (where it will trap other players’ golf ball against the lip), and even with the head of the rake
in the bunker and the handle out. In many instances it is common to see rakes placed along the front of bunkers in an attempt to prevent a ball going into the bunker. None of this has ever been part of golf. So what about some action on progressing back to where the rake is in the middle of the bunker, aligned with the fairway? Ron Weekes Editor’s note: Great point Ron. We’ve actually been thinking about the same thing. Look out for a report on this subject in next month’s issue! What are your thoughts on bunker rakes? Where does your club prefer rakes to be placed? What are the pros and cons? Write in and tell us!
Well done for pointing out (No Silver Lining, Sept issue) how ridiculous some of the media’s reporting of Australia’s Olympic performances were. And also for suggesting Steve Williams might be somewhat responsible for at least one of Scott’s final bogeys in the Open. With
last month to tackle the Cromer Boys On Tour) went out – T (CBO s boy er Crom of ch bun A ational, and a highlySydney. They all agreed it was a sens new Stonecutters Ridge course in Hummer operated by are, travelling in style via a stretch recommended course. Here they l! North Shore Limousines. Very coo
Outside the square
Have you got something to say? Then tell us! Write to us via email at ed@insidegolf.com.au or mail a letter to: The Editor, Inside Golf, PO Box 360 Nunawading, Vic 3131. Tell an interesting story or something funny about golf and you could WIN a Smoothy Compact buggy valued at $230!
Second Place is Tops
Golfing in style
Williams’ carrying on as though he was instrumental in Tiger’s major achievements after their split, surely he could have steered his man (Scott) to victory over those final holes! A good article, which is hopefully read by those that need to read it. Dean, via email
The subject of the letter of the month (August Issue), from B.H. was that the promotion of things happening in golf clubs is fairly minimal. The golf club I belong to (Horizons Golf Resort) thinks “outside the square” in that members regularly receive email updates on what’s happening, along with a monthly newsletter also emailed or snail mailed to every member. There are weekly advertisements in the local paper. Every Friday night we have “lucky draw” for cash and an update from one of the Directors. Our pro shop is well run and they go out of their way to be helpful and informative. What makes our club unique, perhaps in Australia, is that five members have
formed a consortium, on a volunteer basis, to run the golf course. Our members, whether local or country, are well informed on “what’s happening” at their golf club. Elizabeth Cameron, via email Really enjoyed your article on the Olympics and Adam Scott. As a reader I feel you gave a terrific perspective and narrative on success in sport (probably expandable to most things). I can’t imagine anyone sensibly arguing with your analysis. The media really dumbs-down to sell their stuff, but have got it wrong for most of their audience. Keep up the good work. Christopher Rochester, via email
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87
last word
‘C’ is for Canning Larry Canning ed@insidegolf.com.au
I was recently driving a golf cart at break neck speed—which as you know could be upwards of 12 KPH—trying to stay in front of a storm that looked like it could take out Wollongong. When I found myself dangling two wheels over the edge of the water hazard on the 6th, I remembered just how bloody dangerous these little electric missiles can be. Back when I started as the professional at Bowral Golf, I inherited four beaten-up old two-stroke golf carts. I named these bad boys A,B,C, and D. They used to be called 1,2,3,and 4 but I was looking for names that were far more creative. As the years went by, I came to see through the chipped paint, bent chassis and blood stains and became really attached to them. C was my favourite. It didn’t have a governor, which basically meant it could easily have taken me to pole position at Bathurst. One miserable winter’s day, I was using Cart C to rush a surgeon back from the course so he could save some poor bloke in hospital. C was in full flight when the doctor pointed out that we were about to drive straight over the lip of the steepest trap on the course. This bunker was so deep, legend had it two unhappy members had actually committed suicide jumping off it. I went into a calm state of sheer panic and managed to lock up the brakes and put the cart into a 360. The Doc jumped out of the passenger’s seat and commando-rolled
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October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
through the bunker like a 60-year-old Wesley Snipes, while I chose the more noble option of attempting to land the thing safely without injuring any civilians. Cart C finished up perched on its side with me clinging onto the steering wheel with a rake dangerously close to performing a colonoscopy on me. The last image I have of the Doc was him running into the distance looking over his shoulder. Cart C was involved in another incident with a member at the club named Ray Mullett. Ray had built a small business empire and had retired with a few more dollars in the bank than most. Ray also had worse eyesight than Ray Charles. I once saw Ray standing next to his cart hollering to his playing partners, “So where’s this bloody temporary green the pro was telling us about.” Ray was actually parked on it. Cart C and Ray were a really bad combination so I avoided the two of them getting together as much as I could. One day there was nothing I could do, and I watched in horror as Ray and C took off down the first fairway in a blaze of twostroke smoke, scattering golfers like tenpins. It wasn’t C’s lucky week, as a few days before, a half-sozzled golfer had run into the Pro-Shop and bent the bumper bar (OK... it could have been me). So I could barely look when Ray brought old C back and handed me the key. Though you could have knocked me over with a wood cover when I saw the bent bumper bar was now perfectly straight! One day I wanted to spoil my little fleet with a nice, shiny detailing. I gave my beloveds a waxing, tyre blacking, polished the windscreens etc. What I might have overdone a little was the Amour-all on the seats. I realised this when I saw Old Judge Crossly try and take the rather acute bend around
the hedge on the first tee only to slide straight off the seat into the camellia garden. I don’t mind telling you, there was a tear or two shed when it finally came time to trade in the old codgers for a brand new fleet. Particularly when
they told me how much they were giving me for the deal. I guess you just can’t put a price on love.... I still think of my wonderful relationship with Cart C and the special moments we shared. Particularly around Bathurst time. •
demo dates
View Demo Days on our website: www.insidegolf.com.au/demo-days-australia/ Ping Ph: (02) 9524 8233 or visit www.ping.com Location New South Wales Randwick Golf Club* Concord Golf club* The Australian Golf Club* The Ridge Driving Range Cumberland Country Club* Yass Golf club* Royal Canberra Golf Club* Canberra Int Driving Range Elanora Country Club* Thornliegh Golf Driving Range Pymble Golf Club* Terrey Hills Country Club Foster Tuncurry Golf Club* Taree Golf Club* Kempsey Golf Club* Port Macquarie Driving Range* Eden Gardens Golf Club* Tura Beach Country Club* Queensland Victoria Park Golf Complex* Mackay Golf Club Mackay Golf Club Parkwood Burleigh Golf Club Horton Park Golf Club Palm Meadows Victoria Murray Downs Golf Course* Melbourne Golf Academy Horsham Golf Club* Ballarat Golf Club* Kingston Heath Golf Club* Kew Golf Club* HOG Ringwood* Yarra Yarra Golf Club* Sandringham Golf Range Victoria Golf Club* Yarra Bend Golf Driving Range Colac Golf Club* Woodlands Golf Club* Riversdale Golf Club National Golf Club* South Australia Drummond Golf Driving Range* Royal Adelaide Golf Club* The Vines of Reynella Golf Club* Kooyonga Golf Club* Victor Harbour Golf Club*
Day
Ping Ph: (02) 9524 8233 or visit www.ping.com Date
Time
Location Mount Osmond Golf Club* Glenelg Golf Club* Western Australia Wannaroo Golf Club Lake Karrinyup Golf Club Pinjarra Golf Club Tasmania Seabrook Golf Club* Drummond Golf - Launceston* Country Club Driving Range* Tasmania Golf Club*
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Friday Saturday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Tuesday Wednesday
October 01 October 02 October 03 October 03 October 04 October 16 October 17 October 17 October 18 October 18 October 19 October 20 October 23 October 24 October 25 October 26 October 30 October 31
1 - 5pm 1 - 5pm 9am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 1 - 6pm 1 - 5pm 9am - 1pm 4 - 7pm 9am - 2pm 4 - 7pm 1 - 5pm 10am - 3pm 10am - 3pm 10am - 3pm 11am - 3pm 9am - 3pm 9am - 3pm 10am - 3pm
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October 02 October 06 October 07 October 11 October 12 October 19 October 26
5:30 - 7:30pm 9am - 5pm 9am - 1pm 2 - 5pm 12 - 4pm 1 - 3pm 1 - 5pm
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October 02 October 03 October 11 October 12 October 13 October 15 October 16 October 17 October 17 October 18 October 18 October 20 October 25 October 26 October 27
12 - 6pm 4 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 12 - 5pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 1 - 5pm 10am - 2pm 5 - 7pm 10am - 2pm 5 - 8pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm
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October 03 October 04 October 05 October 06 October 07
3 - 6pm 4 - 7pm 12:30 - 4:30pm 9am - 3pm 10am - 2pm
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Date
Tuesday Wednesday
October 09 October 10
10am - 2pm 10am - 3pm
Wednesday Sunday Friday
October 03 October 07 October 19
10am - 1pm 9am - 12pm 9:30am - 1pm
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday
October 28 October 29 October 30 October 31
10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 1 - 5pm 10am - 2pm
Callaway RAZr FIT power hours Location New South Wales New South Wales Golf Course ** ‡ Sydney Olympic Park Driving Range † Carnarvon Golf Club* ‡ Eastlakes Golf Club* ‡ Concord Golf Club ** ‡ The Links at Shell Cove * ‡ Chatswood Golf Course * ‡ The Lakes Golf Club** ‡ Elanora Country Club** ‡ Dubbo Golf Club* ‡ Wentworth Golf Club* ‡ Avondale Golf Club ** ‡ Everglades Golf Club* ‡ Magenta Shore Golf Club* ‡ Queensland Victoria Park Golf Complex† Brisbane golf club† Horton Park Golf Club† Parkwood International Golf Course† Warwick Golf Club† Palm Meadows Golf Range† Victoria Melbourne Golf Academy † Rosebud Country Club ‡ House Of Golf Hoppers Crossing‡ Heritage Golf Club‡ Morack Public Golf Course‡ Phillip Island Golf Course‡ House of Golf Epping‡ Flinders Golf Club‡ Victoria Golf Club ‡ House of Golf Ringwood‡ The National Golf Club - Practice Tee‡
Time
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Date
Time
Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Wednesday Thursday Friday Tuesday Wednesday Friday
October 03 October 03 October 04 October 05 October 09 October 10 October 11 October 12 October 17 October 18 October 19 October 23 October 24 October 26
10am - 2pm 4:30pm - 7:30pm 10am -1pm 1 - 5pm 1 - 5pm 10am - 2pm 1 - 5pm 12:30 - 5pm 9am-1pm 10am - 2pm 3 - 7pm 8am - 11am 1 - 5pm 1 - 5pm
Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Friday
October 02 October 03 October 10 October 11 October 19 October 26
5pm - 7pm 10am - 2pm 11am - 1pm 5pm - 8pm 11am - 1:30pm 3pm - 6pm
Wednesday Wednesday Friday Wednesday Thursday Friday Friday Saturday Thursday Friday Saturday
October 03 October 03 October 05 October 10 October 11 October 12 October 19 October 20 October 25 October 26 October 27
4 - 7pm 10am - 3pm 12 - 5pm 10am - 2pm 3 - 6pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm 10am - 5pm 10am - 2pm
* 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.
Clearwater Noosa
Resort The Home of the Cool Brands
Stay & Play Golf Packages
7 nights & 5 rounds of Golf Your choice of resort and club courses. • Noosa Springs • Twin Waters • Club Pelican • Coolum Golf & Spa • Mt Coolum • Tewantin Noosa • Horton Park • Headland • Caloundra
$
from
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PP 4 share basis Package #1
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We offer a one stop shop for your Golf Vacation. No matter what size group, small or large, or your duration of stay we will tailor make your program to suit. We will organize transfers, rental cars or vans and for larger groups buses. Just a short iron to some of Noosa’s favourite restaurants and Cafés.
Phone (07) 5449 9333 • Fax (07) 5449 0603 info@clearwaternoosa.com.au • www.clearwaternoosa.com.au www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
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golf directory
SAPPHIRE COAST GOLF SCHOOL
‘Play a round then play around’
• Eden Gardens Country Club a superb 18 hole championship course available for competition & social play • Individual golf lessons • Seniors, women and kids golf clinics
• 18 hole golf course • Fully stocked ProShop • Tuition for all ages available • Motorised cart hire • In club dining at Fairways Bistro • Function room for weddings, special occasions or conferences • Live entertainment and activities throughout the week • Courtesy bus • Open 7 days a week
• On-course golf tuition • Golf swing video analysis • Half and full day golf programs • Stay, play and improve golf holiday packages • Golf for school groups and school holiday programs
Phone (02) 6496 1054 Loraine: 0423 149 012 Lisa: 0417 485 635
Yamba Golf & Country Club features an 18 hole championship golf course, located right in the heart of Yamba.
BEERWAH GOLF CLUB At the base of the beautiful Glasshouse Mountains…
We look forward to welcoming you soon! River Street, Yamba NSW | Ph (02) 6646 2104 | Pro Shop (02) 6646 1656 | www.yambagolf.com.au
• 18 hole Golf Course • Visitors & Social Players Most Welcome • Timeless Tuesday - Unlimited* Golf for ONLY $25
Play & Stay for $120
*
Biondi Crescent, Beerwah admin@beerwahgolfclub.com.au www.beerwahgolfclub.com.au
bersh em fro m
Ph: (07) 5494 0630 Golf Shop (07) 5494 6611
ips
M
*
$220 va
A
Package includes: • 2 games of golf • Meal • 1 night accommodation with continental breakfast
• $22 Visitor Competition Fee (Wed, Sat & Sun Competitions) • Golf Equipment for Hire & Sale • Fully Licensed Clubhouse • Social Clubs & Corporate Days
ila ble *Conditions apply
Casino Golf Club - West St, Casino NSW 2470 P: (02) 6662 1259 | E: admin@casinogolfclub.com.au
www.casinogolfclub.com.au
Cobram-Barooga Golf View Motel
THREE COURSE SPECIAL
Only $290
Mossman, Mirage & Sea Temple Includes Carts, Fees & Transfers
Special play & Stay packageS on courSe
(Price based on 2 person share. +$30 single person supplement)
• 2 Nights’ Accommodation • 2 Rounds of unlimited Golf (subject to availability) • Continental Breakfast each morning (cooked upgrade $8pp per day) • Meal Vouchers for the Sports Club
Mossman & Sea Temple Includes Carts, Fees & Transfers
TWO COURSE SPECIAL
(Price based on 2 person share. +$20 single person supplement)
MOSSMAN
E
PA
I
S
Contact John Carney - “JC” on 0438 581 269 or by email at info@portdouglasgolftours.com.au
A ROU ND
$200pp
AY
IN
October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
Clubs and other packages available on request.
PL
(Price based on 2 person share. +$20 single person supplement)
tWin 179 Golf Course Road SH are Barooga, NSW Australia, 3644 FreeCall 1800 557 192 or Fax +61 5873 4556 www.baroogagolfview.com.au | julie@baroogagolfview.com.au 90
Only $49
Includes Fees & Transfers
$175pp Quad Share
We specialise in Group Bookings Let us organise your next Golfing Getaway With the people who know
Only $195
RAD
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
For advertising call 1300 GOLF 00
golf directory 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 & nonplaying partners catered for.
Play Australia’s Finest Sandbelt Courses • 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
99
$
*Extra fees apply for Moonah Links, Sorrento Golf Club and The National Golf Club
ROSEBUD MOTEL
1869 Point Nepean Rd Rosebud West VIC, 3941
For further enquires and bookings P: (03) 5985 2041 E: rosebudmotel@bigpond.com W: www.rosebudmotel.com.au
›› Hole Out
OUTLASTS ANY OTHER GLOVE
Spectacular
Sapphire Coast Merimbula
$525
FROM
FROM
$444
Pambula Merimbula GC • Eden Gardens GC • Bega Country Club • Tura Beach Country Club
Bellbird Hotel Traditional Hunter Hospitality
+P&H
• 100% Kangaroo Premium Leather • Grips like glue in the wet • It’s like wearing a second skin • Company logos available, ideal for golf days and client gifts • Available in left of right hand, sizes XXXS - XXXL • Black or white
1-7 Oceanview Ave, Merimbula NSW 02 6495 2366 0437 801 270 info@pacificheights.com.au www.pacificheights.com.au
$2495
(CSIRO tested and proven)
Mike McGuire & Yumi Yoshida
P: M: E: W:
1300 26 20 55 | www.golfaccom.com.au info@golfaccom.com.au
Gol Pack f Spec age ialists
Golf packages starting from $99pp Golf • Accommodation • Continental breakfast Group bookings of 10 or more welcome, packages start from $140pp
each
$3495 +P&H pair
P: (07) 4128 8148 | www.kakadugolfglove.com
“Golfers Getaway” 2 nights from
$199.50pp*
Includes: • 2 nights accommodation • Unlimited Golf • Continental breakfast daily • 2 course dinner on one night of your stay *Conditions apply
Visit us at www.bellbirdhotel.com.au or call us on (02) 4990 1094 For advertising call 1300 GOLF 00
www.wisemans.com.au (02) 45 66 44 22 Old Northern Road, Wisemans Ferry NSW
Just an hour from Sydney, our picturesque 18 hole (9 hole alternate tees) par 69 course borders the Hawkesbury River. It can be enjoyed by golfers of all standards, but its tree-lined fairway command focus for even the experienced golfer. Dinner in the Riverbend Restaurant will be another highlight of your visit.
www.insidegolf.com.au | October 2012
91
golf directory Stay & Play Packages $99 Per Person
Includes 18 holes golf & 1 night’s shared accommodation with a continental breakfast.
$220 Per Person
Includes two rounds of 18 holes & 2 night’s shared accommodation with continental breakfasts & 1 dinner in Nowra Golf Club’s River Bistro
MIDWEEK SPECIAL
Motorised Cart & 18 Holes Golf
Only
$30pp
(twin share) *Conditions apply
Fairway Drive, North Nowra, NSW 2541 Bookings & Info Phone: (02) 4421 2249 Or email: proshop@nowragolf.com.au GOLF CART SLOWING DOWN? Need new batteries? Don’t replace them… Restore them with the Battery Reviver.
specialises in the production of visors and hats ideal for the lady golfer or sporting women alike
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.
30 DAY
SATISFACTION GUARANTEE OR YOUR MONEY BACK.
For more information, pricing and to order visit our website www.batteryreviver.com.au or Phone 1300 852 433
Golfing Caddy™
www.bysavvy.com.au - Contact 0432 692 997
Specialising in the best ‘Australia Wide ’ Play & Stay Golf Packages
Professionally planned and tailored golf escapes for your enjoyment PACKAGES AVAILABLE
LADIES MEMBERSHIP OPEN
Sunshine Coast & Gold Coast • Hunter Valley • Port Stephens • Mornington Peninsular • Tasmania • Cairns/Port Douglas • The Entrance BRAND NEW! WA Golf, Barnbougle & Lost Farm
No Nomination Fee (Save $440)
QUALITY ACCOMMODATION, CONFIRMED TEE TIMES, YOUR CHOICE OF RESORT OR LOCAL COURSES
Ladies Competitions every Saturday from 9am till 11am and Tuesday from 8am till 9am. Friday and Sunday Open Medley Competitions.
Every detail professionally arranged, leaving you nothing to do but arrive and have the time of your life! We will tailor your package to suit any holiday plans or budget
Subscription year is 1st October till 30th September. 36 Hole Club including 3 practise putting greens, 100m pitching green with bunkers, 250m driving range and fully licensed 1 level air conditioned clubhouse Nudgee Golf Club Incorporated 1207 Nudgee Road NUDGEE QLD 4014 Phone: 07 3267 7744 E-mail: golf@nudgeegolf.com.au www.nudgeegolf.com.au October 2012 | www.insidegolf.com.au
p: 07 5594 3475 f: 07 5594 3477 t: 1300 309 299 1a 658 Nerang Broadbeach Road, Carrara Qld 4211 e: sales@preciouscargo.com.au w: www.preciouscargo.com.au
Also Go Caddy is available NOW!
Is a stylish and durable multi-compartment bag • Holds up to 1.5 litre bottle • Cooler sleeve included • Metal clip easily attaches to your golf bag • Pleasted deep front and back pockets • Elastic pouch roomy enough to hold all items • Removable Mircofiber towel to wipe off your golf ball and club head
92
PROUDLY AUSTRALIAN MADE
Ph: (07) 3200 6557 M: 0418 713 620 F: (07) 3200 5731 sharon@uchoosegolf.com.au www.uchoosegolf.com.au
For advertising call 1300 GOLF 00
3 great reasons
to visit Yarra Bend’s new golf range
this October
1 2 3
>Buy $100 range ball card & receive a bonus $50 FREE. >Buy $200 range ball card & receive a bonus $100 FREE. *Valid first 50 customers
>$99 Beginner Clinics. >5 x 1 hour classes, maximum 8 people/class >Day & evening, midweek & weekend classes available >BannLynch Golf – Australia’s best coaches >ALL GoLF CLuB mEmBERs... show your membership card and receive: 20% Bonus on your range ball card purchase *Limited to $200 in any single transaction
Learn from
! t s e b s ’ austraLia BannLynchGolf and Yarra Bend congratulate
Denis McDade
Awarded 2012 Australian PGA Teacher of the Year. Denis joins Steven Bann and Dale Lynch as winners of the: • Australian PGA Teacher of the Year • Victorian PGA Teacher of the Year • Australian Golf Digest Teacher of the Year • Together with Darren Cole; PGA Victorian Teacher of the Year.
*BannLynchGolf-Australia’s most awarded Team of Coaches
sA
Mega
TuR M DA OAk ASSIV lEy E SA Y 20 , TIT VIn &s lEIS gS, un T, F OO prEMI DAY 2 TjO y, c uM br 1 oC T All An Aw dS I oBER Ay, ncl pIn g & udIng MO rE.. .
Sale
!
GOLF FACTORY PENRITH 269 High St, Penrith (near Officeworks)
(02) 4722 8640 - Mail Order - 7 Days
ACCOUNTS AVAILABLE TO GOLF CLUBS
GOLF FACTORY NARELLAN
Narellan Supa Centre, Narellan Rd
Visa, Mastercard and American Express accepted $7 NSW, $9 VIC & QLD, $10 SA, TAS, NT & WA Postage and handling any quantity.
(02) 4647 8542 - Mail Order - 7 Days
Cleveland HB3 Iron/Hybrid
OPTIMA Ball Sale TS+ Green box or TS Tour Gold box Individually boxed
Smoothy 3-Wheel Suspension buggy
HALF PRICE!
$35
$24
$299
Ladies graphite 5,6,7,8,9 and PW Right hand only
Seat Brake Black only
$179
Includes 6 covers
dozen
Cleveland Cart Plus 14 Way Bag Cooler Pocket Putter holder Full length dividers Black/blue, black/red, black
Cleveland Fairway Sale DST Men’s stiff or reg 3 or 5 FL 7 Men’s or Ladies 22º loft Men’s regular 20.5º Mashie hybrid
$179
$119
Includes cover
Individually boxed balls
Precept Laddie X Balls
$179
144 individually boxed balls
Srixon AD333 Callaway HX Hot 3 piece Srixon Soft Feel balls Srixon Soft Feel Lady Nike Power Soft Distance Callaway HX Diablo Srixon Q Star
5 piece urethane cover
SAVE$60
$199
Srixon Distance Balls Distance ball with great feel
$49
$33 Srixon Distance Balls TaylorMade XD Balls Precept Laddie X balls Optima M2 Distance balls Maxfli Lady Noodle Maxfli Black Max Maxfli Tempo
doz
$13doz $14doz $15doz $15doz $13doz $13doz $10doz
Callaway 2 year Waterproof shoe
$18doz $18doz $18doz $18doz $22doz $22doz $23doz
Men’s white: 8, 8.5, 9, 11, 11.5, 12 US sizes Ladies white: 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5 US sizes Men’s black: 8, 8.5, 11, 11.5, 12 US sizes
$129
Great for ball competitions Bulk Qty
$156
144 balls ($13/dozen) Individually boxed
Eagles & Birdies 14 way bag SAVE $50 14 Full length dividers Cooler Pocket Putter Holder Black/Blue and straight Black
$155 Medalist 3.75kg
Cleveland CG-16 Irons 7 Irons 4 - PW CLEARANCE
$69 $369
Stiff or regular
Each (+ Postage)
Cleveland CG-1 Tour Irons 3, 4, 5 Cavity blades 6, 7, 8, 9 + Wedge blades Dynamic Gold Regular, Stiff & X-Stiff
$399
ALL WEATHER GLOVES
TaylorMade Burner Low Compression Callaway Lady HX Pearl balls TaylorMade Rocketballz 3 piece Srixon Z-Star or Z-Star X Callaway Tour i(s) or i(z) Bridgestone B330s or B330 Taylormade Penta TP5
Cleveland CG-16 Wedges
Tour Special by SRIXON Mens Left or Right White or Black Mens - S, M, ML, L, XL
14 Full length dividers Magnetic pockets Cooler pocket Lots of colours
$89
per dozen
$30 for 24 individually boxed balls
Various lengths
HALF PRICE!
$18
Mens or Ladies Soft Feel or AD333 144 Balls for $216
SAVE $250
Eagles & Birdies Cypress Point bag
TaylorMade Penta TP5 Balls
Srixon Ball Sale
$229
5 FOR
$45
INC. POSTAGE ANYWHERE IN AUST
Great value Lob, Sand, Gap & Pitching wedges Right & Left hand Half Price
$99
$50
$25doz $25doz $25doz $33doz $33doz $33doz $33doz
Callaway Staff Tour Bag Pro Style 10” large diameter
SAVE $100
$269 TaylorMade XD balls Great for golf ball competitions Bulk qty 144 balls ($14 a doz) Individually boxed
$168
Distance ball with great feel