Northern Golfer magazine #53 - May 2017

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COMPETITION

WIN A TRIP TO DUMFRIES REVIEWED

NORTHUMBERLAND AND HEADLAM HALL A ROUND WITH

STEVE CRAM

ICING ON THE CAKE JESS BAKER WINS HER FIRST NATIONAL TITLE

WIN FOURBALLS AT ALNWICK CASTLE, BURGHAM PARK AND SEASCALE

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EDITOR Paul Robertson editor@northerngolfer.co.uk EDITORIAL Dean Bailey 01661 844 115 dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk Alan Hedley 07570 797 566 ahedley@northerngolfer.co.uk MATCHPLAY PAIRS Dean Bailey 01661 844 115 dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk ADVERTISING MANAGERS Doug Brolls 07721 031 482 doug@offstonepublishing.co.uk Graeme Heads 07591 961 888 graeme@offstonepublishing.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Gibson & Nicky Rogerson info@kgphotography.co.uk

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Publishers: Jane Pikett & Gary Ramsay Address: Offstone Publishing Unit 1, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield Northumberland, NE43 7AL Tel: 01661 844 115 E: enquiries@offstonepublishing.co.uk Twitter: @offstonepublish Facebook: /offstonepublishing

EDITOR’S NOTE AND CONTENTS We may still be in the relatively early stages of the season but the signs are good for a fabulous summer of golf.

Greenkeepers across the region have seen a dry spell in April continue into the early days of May and many of our finest courses are already in great condition.

For those of us hoping to get our handicaps down, the extra run on the fairways and less give on the greens can prove a challenge but you will find no complaints from most, with the region’s courses packed with members and visitors taking advantage of the decent weather.

One golfer taking full advantage is our cover star Jess Baker. A member of Gosforth Park Ladies, she put herself in the national spotlight with a superb victory in the Midland Under 16 Girls Championship. Her namesake Jessica Hall, who has featured on our cover in the past, has won a deserved call up to international duty while clubmate and our Junior Champion of Champions Briony Bayles has continued her success with victory in the Durham County Ladies Championship this month.

This month sees the start of an occasional series looking back at days gone by. We begin with the North of England Youths, a tournament at Middlesbrough’s Brass Castle course which has featured some of those who went on to become major champions. Northern Golfer is delighted to add its support to this prestigious event - a regular highlight in the region’s golfing calendar.

We also enjoy A Round With Steve Cram, who gives us an insight into some of his favourite places to play as well as naming an eclectic dream fourball.

We review The Northumberland and Headlam Hall, take a trip into the Scottish Borders, check out the latest gear on offer as well as featuring the winners, the characters and the events from across the North East and Yorkshire.

As ever we are keen to hear from you about your exploits on the golf course, whether it be for charity, a hole-in-one, an unusual occurrence or a trophy win. The more golfers and clubs from our region we can feature the better. All our contact details are on the left-hand side of this page.

Until next time let the golfing gods and the sun continue to shine on you throughout the early summer.

04-28 TEEING OFF

North & South success, Durham Ladies champs, remarkable tale of a disabled golfer, plus all the latest golf news

29 TOUR LIFE

European Tour player Chris Paisley on his early season form

30 DEAN BAILEY Going the distance

36-39 BORDERS

We visit Dumfries & Galloway

40 A ROUND WITH...

Athletics legend Steve Cram

42 CHARITY CHAMPS Golf for good causes

Paul Robertson, editor editor@northerngolfer.co.uk

50 GEAR

The latest releases, plus In the Bag with Sergio Garcia

FRONT COVER

54 TIPS

Jess Baker tells us about winning her first national title at the age of 14 and her hopes for the future

Ditch the wedges

Pages 32-34 When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it ©Offstone Publishing 2017. All rights reserved.

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18 THE NORTHUMBERLAND

48 HEADLAM HALL GOLF CLUB

56 COMPETITIONS

Win a fabulous trip to Dumfries plus fourballs at Alnwick Castle, Burgham Park and Seascale

58 MATCHPLAY PAIRS First round draw

62 BUNKER

Another ace at Eaglescliffe NORTHERN GOLFER 03

TEEINGOFF

Jessica’s England call

Briony Bayles

Jessica Hall Jessica Hall has broken through into the England Girls’ team.

Based at Bishop Auckland Golf Club, 18-year-old Jessica received her first call-up following a string of solid results including a recent top20 finish in the Portuguese Amateur - where she was the leading English player with rounds of 77, 76, 74 and 70.

The result in Portugal helped earn her a place in the England team for the Nations Cup, played as part of the Irish Girls’ Open Strokeplay Championship at Roganstown in April.

Jessica was also chosen to represent England in the Nations Cup at The Scottish Girls’ Open Strokeplay Championship at Montrose two weeks later.

Part of a six-strong England squad, which has produced impressive early season performances, Jessica has consistently improved her results – including a final round of 70 in Portugal and a level par 71 in the Leveret Trophy at Formby Ladies.

Back on home ground, she was runner-up to Bishop Auckland teammate Briony Bayles in the Durham County Ladies Championship losing the final 4&3 at South Shields.

04 NORTHERN GOLFER

Briony leads Bishop Auckland charge

B

ishop Auckland Golf Club dominated the Durham County Ladies Championship at a windswept South Shields Golf Club as Briony Bayles lifted the trophy.

The 2016 Northern Golfer Junior Champion of Champions, Briony beat clubmate Jessica Hall in the final as both girls teamed up with Angela Simpson to win the team gross and nett trophies.

Both finalists cruised through their semi-final matches with Briony defeating Sue Musgrove 5&3 and Jessica beating Ella Craig 7&5.

Briony went 3up after three holes in a cold and windy final before Jessica birdied the eighth and ninth to claw back the deficit.

However Briony, 17, was able to pull away on the back nine to claim a 4&3 victory.

As well as winning the Junior Champion of Champions in 2016, Briony claimed the St Andrew’s Junior Ladies Open and continued her work with the England Golf Regional coaching squad.

“Conditions were tough out there, you just had to try and make pars. The people who came out to watch deserve medals,” said Briony.

“I have exams coming up but after that I just want to try and play as much golf as I can and get my handicap as low as possible with a view to possibly going on to a golfing scholarship in the USA and a career in golf.”

As well as 17-year-old Briony and 18-yearold Jess, 10-year-old Maggie Whitehead from Ramside Hall was among the 16 qualifiers for the matchplay rounds.

Yorkshiremen’s England boost Yorkshire duo Jamie Bower and Nick Marsh are being supported by England Golf at the start of their tournament careers.

Meltham’s Bower (pictured) and Huddersfield’s Marsh, along with Kenwick Park’s Ashton Turner, have each been given England Golf invitations guaranteeing seven starts on this year’s European Challenge Tour. In return, they have pledged to give a proportion of their prize money to the England Players Fund which supports the national squads.

TEEINGOFF

Alex is champion A

lex Dixon won the first individual event of the Northumberland Union of Golf Clubs season – the North & South Trophy.

Dixon, from City of Newcastle Golf Club, shot rounds of 71 and 70 to lift the trophy in tough conditions at Newbiggin Golf Club.

Newbiggin’s Merrill Lansbury finished one shot behind with a tworound total of 142 (72-70) while county champion Mark Wharton (City of Newcastle) was third with a score of 145 (71-74).

Dixon said: “It’s great to get a win so early in the season and in such tough conditions at Newbiggin.

“The course was playing really tough in both rounds and I knew before I went out that the key was going to be keeping your head, accepting that things were going to go wrong out there, and just grinding out the pars.”

Dixon now leads the Race to the

Dawson, a two-event order of merit from which the leading player will receive an invite to the 2017 Dawson & Sanderson Classic at Longhirst Hall Golf Club July 5-7. The second event in the series, the 72-Hole Strokeplay Championship at Whitley Bay Golf Club, takes place June 10-11.

“I’ve now got a fantastic opportunity to make it to the EuroPro Tour event at Longhirst this summer and I’ll be putting a lot of work in ahead of the Strokeplay to give myself the best chance of getting there,” Dixon added.

“I’ve been working hard over the winter with my coaches Steve McKenna and Andy Paisley and for that work, both on the technical side and on preparing myself to play my best golf, to have paid off so early in the year is a great feeling.”

Next up in the Northumberland county schedule is a trip to Bolton Old Links to take on Lancashire on May 13.

Alex Dixon

NORTHERN GOLFER 05

TEEINGOFF

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Gavin Moynihan

Irish eyes are smiling

G

avin Moynihan carded a final-round 68 to finish nine under-par and win the Lookers Championship at Close House by one shot to Dermot McElroy.

The closing stages of HotelPlanner.com PGA EuroPro Tour season opener turned into a head-tohead between the two friends - who have known each other for much of their careers in the amateur and professional ranks.

Both held the lead at one stage but Moynihan (68, 68, 68) edged in front with a birdie at the par five 17th and saw home the £10,000 victory with a par at the last.

Nick McCarthy

06 NORTHERN GOLFER

“I am delighted to win,” said Moynihan, who also took home a Motocaddy S3 PRO electric trolley with lithium battery, a Bushnell Pro X2 Range Finder and Bolle sunglasses along with the trophy.

“It was a good battle with Dermot. I had a great start to be three under-par after eight. I had a bogey at 11 and Dermot had gone birdie, birdie so suddenly from one ahead I was one behind and a little bit shell-shocked. I knew I was playing well and the last six holes I played really well –

TEEINGOFF

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MAY TO SEPTEMBER

the approach into 18 was probably my best shot of the day.

“We played GB&I boys teams together and were foursomes partners. We have known each other since we were 14 and are best friends. It made it easier for me because I like to have a chat through the round, so it was probably to both of our advantages.

“My game has been there for a long time but I haven’t really got much out of it - hopefully this is the start of a good year for me.”

McElroy finished eight under-par after rounds of 67, 68 and 70 over the Colt Course at Close House.

Nick McCarthy (Moortown

Golf Club - 69, 69, 68) led the local challenge with a third place finish.

Six players shared fourth place on five under-par as Garrick Porteous (Bamburgh Golf Club) and Alex Wrigley (Hartlepool Golf Club) finished in a tie for 16th place.

Matthew Webb (Bedlington Golf Club) and Andrew Scrimshaw (Close House) also finished inside the top 30.

The EuroPro Tour returns to the North East this summer for The Dawson & Sanderson Classic at Longhirst Hall Golf Club July 5-7.

The regular season events for 2017 end at Moor Allerton Golf Club in Leeds September 13-15 with The Clipper Logistics Championship.

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TEEINGOFF

Horseplay proves a final twist

A

mputee Colin Poole produced a remarkable final twist at South Moor Golf Club to win the club’s England Golf gold medal event.

Colin, 65, led the 105-man field by one shot with a stunning save at the final hole - playing his ball from a ditch by twisting his prosthetic leg into an unorthodox position.

Colin, who lost his right leg six years ago when high cholesterol led to a blocked artery, said: “At first it looked as if I would have to concede a penalty stroke and take a drop shot – but I had an idea. Twisting my prosthetic leg behind me at the knee joint made it possible to hit the ball sitting down. I gripped down a little and got the ball out of the ditch and onto the fairway.

“Not losing that shot made all the

difference.” Colin, who returned a nett 67 in the event, plays off a handicap of 22 and held a single-figure handicap before losing his leg. A retired pub landlord, he plays three times a week at South Moor.

“I have had to learn how to stand differently. It’s been a long process and I still tend to ‘lock in’ a bit when I am swinging,” he added.

“The only practice I can do is a bit of chipping so it’s down to improving when I play on the course. I am still learning but I am making progress. I’ve had to change my putting stance a lot but that is coming good.”

Colin’s luck came in twice during the round after a wayward drive at the eighth. “My tee shot hit a horse’s head in the field next door and bounced back onto the fairway!” he said.

Colin Poole in the ditch on the 18th hole - where he twisted back his false leg to play a tournament winning shot

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TEEINGOFF

Fire doesn’t stop play

Newbiggin Golf Club Newbiggin Golf Club escaped damage when firefighters had to tackle blazing gorse next to the Northumberland coastal course.

Around 500sqft of gorse caught fire alongside a path close to the club’s ninth and 13th holes - but no damage was done to the golf course.

Club manager John Young said: “The firemen were there quite a while but there was no damage to the golf course and it hasn’t stopped anyone playing.

“We’ve been told the gorse usually grows back stronger after being burned and we hope it will be back next summer.”

Where Eagles dare

E

aglescliffe went one better than 12 months ago when they won the Northumberland and Durham Inter-County Foursomes Championship - the traditional opener of the North East season.

Last year Tom Smith and Will Skipp lost out to City of Newcastle’s Phil Ridden and Alex Dixon in the final but this time Smith teamed up with Sam Donald to win a tight final on the 18th hole at Consett.

The pair were 2up with three to play against Ponteland’s Russell Hayhoe and Duncan Ross before the Pont pair made birdie on 17 to be 1dn playing the last. Both were close to driving the green at the 18th and when Hayhoe played an excellent pitch from below the green to 10ft

Sam Donald and Tom Smith with club president Richard Hutton and Smith chipped to 4ft from just off the front of the green, the pressure was on.

Ross added more pressure when he holed that 10ft putt for a birdie and Donald had to step up and roll in his tricky 4ft putt for a half and a 1up win.

“You just have to trust your putting stroke when it comes to one like that,” said Donald. “Nothing beats winning something like this when you’re playing with a mate.”

It was only Eaglescliffe’s second victory in the championship - their first coming 34 years ago.

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10 NORTHERN GOLFER

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TEEINGOFF

THE DAWSON & SANDERSON CLASSIC LONGHIRST HALL GOLF CLUB July 5-7

FREE SPECTATOR ENTRY See the UK & Ireland’s best young professionals in action.

Cameron Wallace receives his gold medal from Adam Jones, the AoC Golf Championship organiser

Golden shots

C

ameron Wallace made up for his narrow miss in last year’s national colleges championship with a twoshot win in the 2017 event.

The Hartlepool teenager took the Gold Medal in the AoC Sport National Championships at Morley Hayes in Derbyshire with a one under-par 143 and two stroke victory ahead of Otley College’s Warren Bates.

The 17-year-old was unfortunate not to take the title last year as he was tied first with two other competitors before missing out on countback after 36 holes of competition. This time, he made sure there was no question who was the winner.

“I’d shot a course record of 66 around Seaton Carew earlier in the week so I knew my game was in good shape,” he said.

Wallace birdied the opening two holes before he drove into the greenside bunker at the 372-yard fifth and still made birdie to lead the field at the end of day one.

In windy conditions the following

day he played more defensively and posted a sound level par round for victory.

Currently working toward a BTEC Sport diploma at Hartlepool College of Further Education, Wallace is contemplating a US scholarship and has been working with his mentor, Challenge Tour player Garrick Porteous.

Wallace wasn’t able to take his AoC Colleges Championship form into the Peter McEvoy Trophy at Copt Heath as he missed the cut along with his Hartlepool colleague Jack Ainscough.

In the McEvoy, Yorkshire’s Barclay Brown, a former winner of the North of England Under 14 title at South Moor, shot a blistering last round 65 to finish eighth while Daniel Bradbury, who finished ninth in the AoC event, was 12th at Copt Heath while Middlesbrough’s James Swash shared 21st place. Meanwhile Hallamshire’s Barclay Brown proved he can shoot low scores in winning the British Schools Northern Open title at Fleetwood with a five under-par 67.

In the swing Members of Bedale Golf Club now have the opportunity to tackle some of the most famous golf courses in the world in the club’s new swing studio.

The £100,000 development has been funded by a Sport England Inspired Facilities grant, Hambleton District Council and the club, and gives member the chance to play eight

Ian Smith, John Noone, Rishi Sunak MP, Dr Alastair Davidson & Matthew Kettlewell courses including Carnoustie and Royal Troon. It is also the new home of indoor coaching in the club’s former gatehouse. A three-hole academy course has also been created on the practice ground as part of the scheme.

NORTHERN GOLFER 11

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Roger Shaw

Practice is perfect for Ramside

R

amside Hall has opened a new £50,000 practice area.

Durham’s only 36-hole golf resort and hotel, Ramside is celebrating its 21st anniversary year and marked the occasion by opening the club’s new practice facilities and covered storage for its fleet of 36 golf buggies.

The improvements include a shortgame zone with a 300sqm artificial green where golfers can practice pitching and chipping and an 850sqm putting green located at the entrance to the £3m 18-hole championship Cathedral Course opened in 2014.

The improvements also include two 16m long shelters covered with artificial grass tiles to house the fleet of buggies and provide year-round protection against the weather.

Course manager Roger Shaw said: “This new practice facility is one of only a handful in the North of England and has been built so that golfers can practice on a surface that is weather

proof and never changes come rain or shine.

“Our artificial green behaves almost exactly like a real grass golf green when you hit shots into it.

When other facilities are waterlogged or bogged down in mud, golfers can come and enjoy high-quality practice sessions at Ramside.”

Helen Roseberry, director of golf at Ramside Golf Club, said: “The buggy shelters are the last piece of the jigsaw, a real talking point when people arrive at the resort.

“They have the wow effect but are also practical, they keep our buggies dry and protected from the changing British weather while blending in against the backdrop of the golf course.”

The short game zone is open to the public as well as club members and visiting guests. Practice sessions are by appointment and booked through Ramside’s Golf Reception, tel 0191 386 9514.

The Northumberland & Durham Alliance kicked off the new season with the Hardy Greenfield Cup at Tyneside Golf Club with Stuart Smith and John Straker taking home the trophy with 43 points. Dom and John Lee finished second with 42 points as Martin Forster and Richie Kendrick were third on the same score. Meanwhile, Stuart Smith won the professionals’ prize.

TEEINGOFF

Harper engineers a great career

S

wapping a career in engineering for golf is paying off for Wynyard-based pro James Harper.

So much so that, when Harper completed his PGA Foundation degree, he earned a £1,500 bonus by finishing third in the Titleist PGA Assistant of the Year Awards.

Harper was presented with the cheque by Jeremy Tomlinson, managing director Acushnet EMEA and PGA Master Professional Denis Pugh, the guest of honour at the PGA Graduation Ceremony held at the University of Birmingham.

It’s a world away from Harper’s fiveyear stint in industry before he opted for a career in golf.

He said: “My golf had improved and when I won the Durham strokeplay and matchplay championships I had a plus-three handicap. I turned professional in 2006 and apart from playing I started doing repairs and custom fitting so joined a clubmaking course.”

Harper is no stranger to being

James Harper (© GettyImages) among the prizes since he began his PGA training programme in 2014.

“I was second in the first year and second in the next,” he recalled. “The money I’ve won this time will come in very handy. I’m 39 and it’s encouraging to see older players joining The PGA. I think they bring something different

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Durham cruised through their preseason programme in preparation for the Northern Counties League campaign with comfortable wins over the County Juniors side and the Teesside Union team, while Northumberland’s annual friendly against the Lothians saw the match tied 9-9 at Gullane. The opening round of county matches take place on May 13.

to the organisation through their various experiences.”

Harper describes himself as “just one of the team” at Wynyard. “I head up the custom fitting department so I’ve got lots to do with lofts and lies and shafts in addition to selling and making equipment,” he added.

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14 NORTHERN GOLFER

The Newcastle United men’s team with Mick Jopling and Garry Sheriff (ITPS)

United front

I

n its 125th anniversary year, Newcastle United Golf Club has appointed a new secretary and teamed up with sponsors ITPS. Founded on June 4 1892, the club has named Mike Robinson as its new secretary. Mike brings with him a wealth of experience having worked in the golf industry for more than 30 years.

As well as the new appointment, the club has strengthened its links with Gateshead-based ITPS specialists in IT communication and consultancy services.

Mick Jopling, financial director at ITPS and a member of the club, has had a major impact on developing the ties between the two.

Club captain Liam McNulty said:

“As a member of the club, Mick has been very pro-active with all aspects of providing support and advice in helping take the club to the next level.

“Having established a strong presence with links to a large number of other local businesses, Mick has been able source a large amount of sponsorship revenue for the club. His company, ITPS, has made a significant input themselves in the form of scorecard sponsorship, tee box signage and corporate sponsors’ days. In particular, they have got right behind the two league teams in providing them with Under Armour team kit over the last few years and I know the team players are very grateful for this.

I must offer special thanks to Mick and ITPS for all of their support.”

Cumbria Union of Golf Clubs captain Andrew Edwards is looking forward to the start of the season following warm weather training at Vila-Sol in Portugal. The party of 12 spent four days in The Algarve with Edwards testing his team at a championship standard facility.

He said: “The trip gave us the opportunity to have four days competitive golf and practice together, and get our game in order before the start of the season.”

Cumbria finished fifth in last year’s Northern Counties Golf Union League, a position Edwards is hoping to improve on this year.

TEEINGOFF

Game, set and match

J

oshua Brookes and Jess Baker have been crowned Northumberland Matchplay champions.

Played at City of Newcastle Golf Club, the boys’ event took place over four matchplay rounds following an 18-hole qualifying event.

Joshua, from Arcot Hall Golf Club, beat Close House’s Jonny Douglas 2up in a close final having beaten Newbiggin Golf Club’s Jai Scott in his semi-final match.

In the girls’ event, this month’s cover star Jess Baker, from Gosforth Park Ladies, beat close friend and county teammate Rosie Belsham (Whitley Bay) at the second extra hole.

The next event in the Northumberland junior calendar is the 36-Hole Junior Strokeplay Championship at Longhirst Hall Golf Club on June 4.

Read about Jess’ national success and her hopes for the future on pages 32-34.

Joshua Brookes

Jess Baker

Garforth’s Daniel Wilkes finished the top Yorkshire player as Leigh's Sean Blinkhorn won the Galvin Green PGA Assistants Championship North qualifier at Hesketh.

On a windy day, no player was able to go under-par.

Blinkhorn carded a two over-par 74 and was joined by Tim Ford and Jamie Howarth. Wilkes qualifies for the £32,000 final at Coxmoor on Aug 2-4.

NORTHERN GOLFER 15

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Alnmouth Golf Club, Foxton Hall

Lynda Conway, John Harrison and Tom Longhurst

Masters moment at Matfen Members of Matfen Hall have welcomed the new season, and their new captains, in style.

Incoming captains Tom Longhurst and Lynda Conway hit the first shots of the season in front of a full field of members before a Texas Scramble – won by Graeme Wigham, Ian Telford, Darren Smith and Tony Liddle with an impressive 30.75 in the nine-hole event.

On Sunday April 9 members returned to celebrate Masters Night with a challenging courses setup to mimic Augusta National – the team of Ernie Hunter, Guy Hunter, Fraser Steel and Peter Smith winning with a superb score of 29.4 - before three-time European Tour winner and 2007 Masters player Kenneth Ferrie shared stories from his trip to Augusta and his life on tour.

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16 NORTHERN GOLFER

Bolton Old Links

Flagship event for Bolton Bolton Old Links will host the PGA North Region Championship, inaugurated nearly 100 years ago in an era when it was one of only eight events on the professional calendar.

It’s the first time the course will feature the flagship tournament won by an impressive list of celebrated

players including the legendary George Gadd, who prevailed in 1924 at Wilmslow then at Formby in 1926 before competing in the first unofficial Ryder Cup match at Wentworth.

The tournament on July 26-27 will be preceded by a pro am on July 24.

TEEINGOFF

Adam’s a happy chap

Lytham agony

Will Whiteoak Yorkshireman Will Whiteoak will be ruing a missed opportunity after he finished sixth in the Lytham Trophy.

The Shipley golfer looked to be on target when he was one under-par in the final round but he tangled with Lytham’s notorious finish to drop a shot at the 17th before a triple-bogey at the last.

Whiteoak finished in sixth place with a total of 293, with Remedy Oak’s Jack Singh Brar posting 288 to win by two. Wynyard’s Andrew Wilson finished in 26th place while Ben Hutchinson (Howley Hall) finished 31st and Masham’s Dan Brown finished in 34th place.

C

arus Green Golf Clubbased Adam Chapman picked up the first win of his professional career on the 1836 Tour with an impressive six-shot victory.

Playing at Dunham Forest, Chapman led the field in the 36-hole event having recorded a 31st place finish in his first EuroPro Tour event at Close House the previous week with rounds of 65 and 71.

Collecting the £2,700 winner’s cheque, Adam said: “I am delighted to have secured my first professional win at Dunham Forest.

“The first round was one of the best of my life with eight birdies. I added three birdies in the second round with an eagle on 14th. I scored on the holes I needed to and I am

Adam Chapman over the moon. It was also great to have my dad’s support in the first round with him caddying for me.

“I’m practising harder than ever and hitting the ball really well. I hope that continues for my next 1836 Tour event at Wychwood Park later this month.”

The 1836 Tour is now in its sixth year, with Callaway supporting the Order of Merit and rewarding the winner with a full equipment contract. The leading member on August 31 will have their £1,350 entry fee for European Tour Qualifying School paid by the tour.

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COURSEREVIEW

Park life’s a classic Dean Bailey visits The Northumberland Golf Club which has adapted in recent years to maintain its place as one of our region’s finest layouts

D

riving through the gates of Gosforth Park and into The Northumberland Golf Club remains one of our region’s best golfing experiences.

From the moment you’re greeted by the signpost declaring the course a host venue for Regional Qualifying for the Open Championship, to warming up around the excellent practice facilities and taking in the history in the clubhouse – there is something very special about every visit here.

Founded in 1898 in and around the racecourse in High Gosforth Park, the golf club and course have been renovated throughout their history with changes made by Harry Colt and James Braid in the late 19th and early 20th Century, and further alterations made ahead of the course hosting its first Qualifying five years ago.

The bunkering at the Park is penal while the tightly mown approaches and lightning fast 18 NORTHERN GOLFER

greens offer a stern test whether you’re a top professional or mid-handicapper.

The opening stretch at the Park is the most scoreable - a pair of par fives and a short par four making up three of the first four holes.

The first, 319 yards from the back tee, is a good birdie chance. Play a long iron to the right of the fairway bunker to leave around 100 yards back up the hill to a large green. The second is the toughest of the four, a 434-yard par four with out of bounds right and a central fairway bunker 280 yards from the tee.

The par five third and fourth holes are both good birdie chances, though well defended by fairway bunkers. Four bunkers dissect the third fairway at 285-300 yards from the tee while four more protect the approach to a small green. The fourth is wider though the approach is tough with bunkering and a swale 70 yards short of the green.

The first par three, the 186-yard fifth, is

played to a large, undulating green before a demanding tee shot at the dogleg-right par four sixth. At 401 yards, play a long iron to the corner or hit driver around it, though be wary of the trees to the right which can block the approach.

The green here is big, with three distinct tiers and long putts back to the flag are tough.

The seventh is a tricky 171-yard par three with a green encircled by bunkers while the short par four eighth is a good birdie chance – either play over the cross bunker with a long iron or take driver down the right side.

Making the turn, the ninth is toughest of the par fives. Play to the left side of the fairway to leave the best line in. Three bunkers defend the green with two particularly deep ones on the left.

The par three 10th is again well defended by greenside bunkers though the green is generous.

Heading into the toughest section of the course, the drives at the 11th and 12th are intimidating.

At the 11th the fairway narrows at 230 yards

COURSEREVIEW The Northumberland Golf Club has long been misjudged as an exclusive club but new members are welcome to join both it and the Gosforth Park Ladies club which shares the course and facilities while visitors can expect a warm welcome. The club is also home to a growing junior section – including this month’s cover star Jess Baker

FACT FILE CONTACT The Northumberland Golf Club High Gosforth Park, Newcastle NE3 5HT, tel 0191 236 2498 www.thengc.co.uk while a deep fairway bunker protects the right side of the 12th fairway - longer hitters can be aggressive and go over this to find the widest part of the fairway. The bunkering around the green here has been altered to create four deep bunkers – all of which will leave tough up and downs.

The stroke index one, the 13th was our pick for signature hole (see fact file).

Turning for home, the short 14th is played over the racecourse with out of bounds right before the par five 15th and par four 16th run along the racecourse’s home straight. The 15th is a very good birdie chance should you avoid the fairway bunkers left – both have steep faces. The two greenside bunkers are deep though the green is generous for those left with a wedge for their third shot.

The 16th is the toughest of the final run at 440 yards. The tightest tee shot on the course, play between the left fairway bunker and the road to leave around 170 yards.

The 17th and 18th are good birdie chances should you find the fairway. Play left at both – trees can block the approach at the 17th while out of bounds looms right at 18. The clubhouse clock is a good line for both shots.

Hit driver at 18 to run down and back up the hill and leave an uphill pitch in front of the clubhouse veranda.

GREEN FEES Sun-Fri £60 Buggy hire £25 TOTAL DISTANCE White tees 6,687 yards Yellow tees 6,325 yards Red tees 5,351 yards FEATURES Stunning clubhouse and dining room Locker rooms and changing facilities Practice ground and large short game and putting greens CADDY’S TIP Solid driving can open up scoring opportunities on this tricky course – though be wary of going too far off line into the heather and gorse or one of the penal fairway bunkers.

SIGNATURE HOLE The 13th is a very long par four at 470 yards. Aim towards the three fairway bunkers to the left to leave a long iron or wood to a green protected by a steep rise and a single bunker short left, which is cut into the hill. The green is generous and flat, though finding it is a real challenge!

OUR VERDICT A classic English course which has kept up with modern technology, a visit to The Northumberland is a must – even if it’s just to take in the quality of the putting surfaces!

NORTHERN GOLFER 19

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INTRODUCING

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Andrew Fox

Slaley goes Fox Huntington

A

ndrew Fox is promising to maintain Slaley Hall’s reputation as a top quality golfing venue with its two courses – The Huntington and Priestman – among the most popular in the region.

QHotels has appointed Fox as regional general manager for the group’s northern hotels – a role which includes the position of onsite general manager at Slaley Hall in Northumberland.

In addition to his position at Slaley Hall, Fox - who has more than 20 years experience with some of the UK’s best-known hotel brands - will oversee operations at two further QHotels golf resorts Aldwark Manor, near York, and

the Westerwood Hotel near Glasgow.

Slaley Hall was recently named Best Golf Hotel/Resort in the North of England for the third successive year in the Today’s Golfer Travel Awards and has previously hosted 18 European Tour and European Seniors Tour events.

Fox said: “It’s great to make the move back to QHotels and to maintain an active role in the leisure business in the North East.

“I’m keen to reinstate Slaley Hall’s reputation as a luxury resort. Set in 1,000 acres of Northumberland countryside, the hotel has something for everyone, from taking a luxury spa or activity break, to using its meeting and corporate golf facilities.”

Backworth Golf Club Call 01661 85 22 55 today, or email craig.wright@closehouse.co.uk for further information.

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Youngsters at Morpeth Golf Club’s coaching session

Morpeth attracts young talent

S

intons Junior Golf Academy at Morpeth continues to go from strength to strength.

The academy has had around 40 juniors re-join for the new season and there is a waiting list of 12 juniors. The academy runs each Thursday evening from May to October with two sessions (6-7pm and 7-8pm).

The coaching also continues monthly throughout the winter at N1 Gubeon or at Morpeth with tri-golf sessions to ensure that the club keeps in contact with the juniors and their parents. The coaching consists of five groups from 6-7pm, covering all aspects of the game - putting,

chipping, long game, academy holes (par threes) and on-course ( for course management and rules). From 7-8pm the older and more experienced players cover all aspects of the game and spend time on the course learning about competitive golf with one of the club’s professionals.

The scheme is also backed by many volunteers including seven PGA Level 1 coaches.

If there are more applications, the organisers hope to create an extra group for their 7-8pm slot. More information is available from Morpeth Golf Club, tel 01670 504 942 or email admin@morpethgolf.co.uk

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Bedlington scramble to victory

Bedlingtonshire’s winning team

P

onteland Golf Club hosted the Northumbria Junior Golf League’s Texas Scramble with 14 teams taking part.

Bedlingtonshire Golf Club were the winners on the day with

Runners-up Stocksfield Stocksfield Golf Club runners up.

Bedlingtonshire’s team of Lewi Jones, Jai Scott, Sam Brown and Kate Herron posted 62 for a nett 58.7 while Stocksfield’s line-up of Sam Wilkinson, Josh McCutcheon, Sam Joyce and Oliver Wilson had a nett 60.

NORTHERN GOLFER 21

TEEINGOFF

Morris victory

Rochelle Morris Yorkshire’s Curtis Cup star Rochelle Morris has won the Leveret Trophy over the tough Formby Ladies course.

Woodsome Hall golfer Rochelle posted two excellent rounds of 70 to finish two under-par and edge out Stoke-by-Nayland’s Lily May Humphreys by a single shot in the event - which is part off a series backed by Justin Rose in his role as England Golf ambassador The Leveret Trophy is paired with the Comboy Scratch Trophy at Delamere Forest and is now known as the Comboy Leveret. Humphreys was the overall winner, finishing runner-up in both events while Gemma Clews won the Comboy.

The Comboy Leveret is part of five newly paired tournaments in England which qualify for world ranking points.

Northern Golfer Junior Champion of Champions Briony Bayles and her Bishop Auckland colleague Jessica Hall both finished in the top 20.

Brown in England win Masham’s Dan Brown was part of the England team which produced a battling performance to beat Spain 17-13 in a two-day mixed international and keep a firm grip on the Seve Ballesteros Trophy.

The win, at El Saler Golf Club in Valencia, was England’s 15th in the biennial series while Spain have taken the trophy on just two occasions - most recently in 2013.

22 NORTHERN GOLFER

Will Skipp receiving the trophy from Beamish Park Golf Club captain Dickie Robinson

Skipp’s triple crown

W

ill Skipp successfully defended his U16 Durham County Schools’ Golf Championship title with a superb round of 75. Representing the Dyke House College Elite Development Squad, Skipp led a strong field to win his third U16 title in a row.

Skipp, 15, said: “It’s quite special as no one has done that before. A win is a win and they have always felt special…it never loses how special it is.”

Skipp’s score was also good enough to earn him runner-up in the overall School Boys’ Championship, finishing just a shot behind Gateshead College’s Will Marshall.

Skipp, coached by Andrew Betts at Wynyard and at Dyke House, tied eighth in the Midland Under 16 Strokeplay Championship at Hawkestone Park and will

head to the McGregor Trophy In July and the Scottish Under 16s with bigger intentions.

He said: “I would like to play for England at Under 16s, one or two good finishes in big competitions can help you like that at Hawkstone Park and the McGregor.”

In the overall Boys’ event, Gateshead College’s Will Marshall beat Dyke House’s Jack Ainscough and Skipp by a single shot with a round of 74 as Durham Sixth Form’s Jessica Hall won the Girls’ event with a 74.

Faye Wheatley from Heworth Grange won the Girls’ U16 event as Durham Sixth Form (Team B) won the Teams’ Championship with a nett total of 138 with the best two scores counting from Tin Staples-Clough, Cameron Johnston and Sam Harrison. They will now represent Durham in the English Schools’ Golf Association National Teams’ Championship Finals at Woodhall Spa.

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DURHAM FESTIVAL

16TH – 18TH JUNE 2017 AT D U R H A M C O U N T Y C R I C K E T C L U B

Join us for an evening of gin tasting and sampling and access to the biggest selection of gins in the North of England.

11 distilleries will be present o�ering samples of over 20+ gins and spirits. Meet Poetic License, Durham Gin, Lakes Distillery, Durham Distillery, Hepple Gin, Newcastle Gin, Temperance Spirit Company and Hi-Spirits.

• 80+ gins to buy at our huge gin bar • Live music with 2 performances • Outstanding Street Food available from The Little Fishy, Scream for Pizza and Dabbawal • Adult 18 years+ •You will receive a complimentary hi-ball gin glass and brochure on arrival Get your tickets now at www.planetjuniper.co.uk/durham-tickets

Win FREE tickets to Planet Juniper and a bottle of Durham Gin We have a pair of tickets to the Planet Juniper Gin Festival on offer for one lucky winner, plus a bottle of the finest Durham Gin to help get you in the mood. To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is name one of the premium Northern distilleries which will be attending Durham Gin Festival, June 16-18 2017 at Durham County Cricket Club, Chester-le-Street.

To enter, email your answer, name and mobile number to info@festivalconcepts.co.uk by May 31 2017, or go to the competitions page at www.planetjuniper.co.uk/cheers

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Headingley celebrations

T

he oldest golf club in Leeds is planning to celebrate this year in style.

Headingley Golf Club celebrates its 125th anniversary this year and members are busy organising a variety of events to mark the occasion - one of them is a competition which the ladies’ captain was determined should involve all club members.

“I wanted to do something to show how inclusive golf can be and that’s why I am sponsoring this cup,” said captain Pauline Cavanagh.

“It’s called The Quasicentennial Cup and it’s a knock-out competition open men, women and junior players with the aim of producing a club champion.”

“Wouldn’t it be great if the final was between a male and a female player?”

There have already been 113 entries - 85 men, 22 ladies and six juniors, and the competition runs all season with the final in September.

Headingley started out as a ninehole course at what is now Beckett’s Park, moving to its present home at Adel in 1906.

Headingley lady captain Pauline Cavanagh and club captain Ade Arnold

Huddersfield is to stage one of the qualifying tournaments in the new English Seniors Championship next month. The tournament takes place at Fixby on June 1 with a new format in place for the English Senior Women’s Championship and the creation of a Senior Series for men and women with a grand final at England Golf Week. The Senior Series comprises six 18-hole stableford tournaments to qualify for the grand final at Woodhall Spa on August 16.

This is a very special year for

WHITBY GOLF CLUB

and we look forward to celebrating it with you

£12.50 Anniversary Green Fee Quote ‘NG1892’ when booking, tee times subject to availability. The £12.50 rate is valid all day Monday and after 2pm Tuesday–Friday.

T&Cs apply

Green Fee/Meal Package from £25 per person Discounts for groups of 8 or more (8 for 7, 16 for 14 etc)

Whitby Golf Club, Sandsend Road, Low Straggleton, Whitby YO21 3SR tel: 01947 600660 | email: office@whitbygolfclub.co.uk | www.whitbygolfclub.co.uk

All visitors receive a Whitby Golf Club memento and copy of commemorative brochure NORTHERN GOLFER 25

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PRO -FILE

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26 NORTHERN GOLFER

HOW IS THIS SEASON GOING SO FAR? “On the course, things are going really well. I won the NE/NW PGA’s Pro Series event at Brampton and tied for first place at Ramside to get up to third in the Order of Merit recently. I’m spending more time practising my short game which has really paid off at the start of the year. I’m also nice and relaxed on the course nowadays as I can’t expect to play my best all the time with a lot going on off the course. On the club side, it’s going really well too, we’ve got a big playing membership here with a busy diary of tuition including a healthy Get into Golf programme.”

HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE GAME? “I started playing with my brother and dad at Dinsdale Spa as a kid and was hooked really early on. My dad was a five handicapper at his best and he got us going on the right path. We played our junior golf at Dinsdale and I won the club championship and match play in my final year before heading off to train as a professional with Mark Rogers at Seaton Carew.”

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD? “I don’t want to get too far ahead of myself but I’m in a good position in the Order of Merit and would like to do well in that this season. We’ve got some great events coming up this year - including our PGA Championship at Bishop in June. I’m also captain of the NE/NW PGA this year so it will great to host one of our biggest events at my home club. We’ve also got our pro am here in September plus there’s a lot of work in the shop and on the teaching side, the course is in great condition right now - it’s an exciting time for the whole club.”

INTERESTING FACT? Brother Stewart is the PGA professional at Teesside Golf Club, while younger brother Greg works with Michael and is looking to turn pro later this year.

TEEINGOFF

Charlie at the double

Guest makes himself at home

T

he NE/NW PGA’s Pro Series has come to an end with Vince Guest leading the Order of Merit after the

six events.

Playing between March and May across the North East, Teesside Golf Club’s Guest won the opening event at Cleveland with a superb round of 68 before adding a tie for fourth at Westerhope (69), a tie for fifth at Brampton (73) and a tie for sixth at Sharpley (74) to lead Morpeth’s David Clark by 32.17 points in the Order of Merit.

Simon Robinson, Mark Watkins and James Wilkinson completed the top five as the Order of Merit continues this summer with four professional tournaments – the Northumberland and Durham Open at Rockliffe Hall, the PGA Championship at Bishop Auckland, the Tour Championship at

Vincent Guest (©Getty Images) Matfen Hall and the season-long matchplay tournament.

On the pro am circuit, Callum Tarren claimed the Andalucia Pro Am with 148 points – beating Simon Robinson by four as John Harrison and Michael Nesbit shared third place.

At Sharpley, John Harrison led the way with a round of 70 as Ryan Ingram was second (72) and three players – Andrew Betts, Andrew Scrimshaw and Josh Timmins – shared third (73).

In the two-day Archerfield Spring Pro Am David Clark lifted the title with 80 points, four clear of Michael Nesbit. Chris McDonnell and Jonathon Richardson shared third place with 73

Kevin Batty with Calum Tarren points. At Rockliffe Hall, John Harrison and Callum Tarren shared the first prize with superb 68s.

Check out the latest results at www.nenwpga.co.uk

Charlie Thornton (©Leaderboard Photography) Fulford’s Charlie Thornton has taken last season’s form into 2017 with a quickfire double victory.

Thornton, who topped England Golf’s Boys Order of Merit last year, won the Portuguese Intercollegiate Open by seven shots.

Thornton signed off from boys golf on a high and has immediately followed up with a winning start to his men’s career - taking the Berkhamsted Trophy where he triumphed in a sudden death playoff.

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TEEINGOFF

Top of the class

Gareth Davies Sheffield professional Gareth Davies is proving life begins at almost 40 after changing the direction of his golf career.

The 39-year-old is now head teaching professional at Abbeydale in Sheffield after switching from playing to coaching and he has just been named the Titleist PGA Assistant of the Year.

Davies collected the Whitcombe Cox Trophy and a cheque for £3,500 at the PGA Graduation Ceremony held at the University of Birmingham.

Search for a Hero

H

ero Motocorp has announced a three-year extension to the Hero Challenge and will be bringing the pre-tournament spectacular to Close House September 28-October 1 as part of the British Masters.

The night-golf event made its debut at last year’s British Masters supported

by Sky Sports, when the stars of the European Tour battled it out on a sudden-death shoot-out hole under floodlights and in front of 3,000 fans.

Hero MotoCorp Ltd, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters for the past 16 years, will sponsor the event.

Frenchman Alex Levy overcame Sweden’s Alex Noren in the final in 2016, and former world number one and Ryder Cup legend Lee Westwood has already added his name to the lineup for the Hero Challenge ahead of the British Masters. He said: “I watched last year’s Hero Challenge at The Grove and it looked a lot of fun so I was delighted

Keith Pelley and Pawan Munjawl to put my name forward for this year’s event at Close House.

“It is always good to try something different and something like the Hero Challenge, which also encourages kids and younger people to get into our sport should be encouraged.

Remember golf, like any sport, should be fun and entertaining and the Hero Challenge definitely ticks those boxes.”

Pawan Munjal, chairman, managing director and chief executive officer of

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CHRISPAISLEY

Chris Paisley

TOUR LIFE

LIFE ON THE ROAD, HEADING BACK TO EUROPE AND FOND MEMORIES As I type, it’s a Friday evening and I am in my hotel room somewhere outside of Beijing. I’m ‘enjoying’ a slightly dodgy burger after successfully navigating the 36-hole cut at the Volvo China Open – my ninth in a row and the longest streak of my European Tour career so far. That’s the good news.

The bad news is that I am coming up to two weeks in China and I can feel my body and mind on the decline. There are a few places I don’t enjoy travelling to and China is one of them. The people are lovely and the golf courses are great but it just feels so foreign…and the food is ropey at best!

I am very fortunate to be able to travel around the world playing golf, but these weeks feel much more like work - the odd tough week out of 52 is a good ratio though. The more I travel, the more I realise how lucky we are in the UK. Honestly folks, I know we have our issues but there aren’t many better places to live than jolly old England.

Back to the golf - nine cuts in a row is testament to my improving game, confidence and experience.

I have not been at my best in the past five events but I am becoming really good at getting the most out of my game each week. I think a lot of this improvement comes from experience and necessity.

When your pay cheque is based on performance, you soon learn to not fritter away needless shots and let your emotions ruin a round of golf. I have always been a perfectionist but I am starting to really enjoy scrapping it around. It has been a really positive first quarter of the season. I have a couple of weeks off after this event and then the tour is back in mainland Europe for the rest of the summer.

I’m excited to get back to Europe as I have had most of my best performances there. There is also the lucrative Rolex Series to look forward to too.

The highlight is undoubtedly going to be the British Masters at Close House in October. I remember watching the tour event at Slaley Hall as a kid dreaming of being in their shoes one day. Hopefully plenty of kids will be inspired just like I was.

For a one-of-a-kind golf experience during your visit to West Yorkshire, join us at the Hollins Hall Country Club.

Our 18-hole championship golf course provides challenging play and breathtaking scenery.

Residential & society packages tailored to your golf party’s needs, society packages start from £20.00 per golfer, residential packages start from £95.00 per golfer.

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Hollins Hall Marriott Hotel & Country Club Hollins Hill, Baildon, Shipley, BD17 7QW www.MarriottHollinsHall.co.uk

NORTHERN GOLFER 29

DEANBAILEY

Dean Bailey

The long and short of it Is the distance the modern player hits the ball ruining our finest courses?

I

Dustin Johnson 30 NORTHERN GOLFER

f, like me, your social media is filled with all things golf you may have seen videos of chaps like Joe Miller hitting golf balls up and out of the atmosphere, and over the 400-yard mark for fun over the last couple of years and wondered how it’s possible.

Nowadays drives like that are easy to find out on the PGA Tour from the likes of Rory McIlroy and Dustin Johnson but is it good for the game?

At The Masters there was a lot of discussion about further expansion plans for the course – including buying small retail units across the road from the club’s boundaries for upwards of $5m in order to defend the course from the game’s biggest hitting players. But is it all worth it? What would McKenzie and Jones think of what their masterpiece has become?

At St Andrews, the Home of Golf, the iconic Road Hole is now played over the hotel as the tee stretches back beyond the railway line while more extensions have taken place at the classic courses like Royal Portrush and Turnberry, and seem an annual point of pride for the host venue of the US Open.

The issue is one the game’s governing bodies, The R&A and USGA, are taking seriously.

Last year they launched an annual review of driving distance data from seven of the major professional golf tours, with approximately 285,000 drives per year recorded. From 2003-16, average driving distance on five of the seven tours has increased by approximately 1.2%. On the other two tours studied distance decreased by approximately 1.5%.

Between 1980 and 1993 the average driving distance on the PGA Tour increased three yards, from 257 to 260 yards. Over the next 10 years, the average driving distance increased 27 yards, reaching 287 yards in 2003. Since then average driving distance has risen slightly to 290 yards for the 2016 season.

On the PGA and European tours the amount by which players are ‘long’ or ‘short’

has not changed. Since 2003 the 10 shortest players in that group are about 6% shorter than average, while the 10 longest players in the group are about 7% longer than average.

That the governing bodies are tracking this is interesting, though their findings neglect the fact many of the greatest courses played on the tours were built long before the 2000s.

When you breakdown the data from the PGA Tour you find that more players are reaching the ‘bombers’ category than ever before – those with average driving distances over 300 yards. For the four seasons 1999-2002 only John Daly averaged more than 300 yards off the tee. In 2015, 26 players hit that mark.

In 2016, one of every 14 drives was more than 320 yards (7.24%) while there were 760 drives of more than 360 yards. There were also eight drives of 400 yards or longer, including a 414-yarder from Justin Thomas.

With the number of big hitters rising, and the cost of expanding golf courses spiralling is it time for the governing bodies to step in and say enough is enough?

It is a tough decision to take, not least with pressure from manufacturers who continue to develop drivers and golf balls right on the boundaries of the equipment rules. But with so many clubs becoming short for even club golfers and county players, something must be done before we have a high proportion of obsolete golf courses.

Several solutions regularly come up limiting the aerodynamic qualities of the golf ball is often discussed, as is decreasing the size of a driver’s clubhead and shortening the maximum shaft length. All would reduce driving distance and allow some of the finest golf courses in the world to keep their places at the top of the tree rather than being outgunned.

It’s time to get to grips with driving distance, before our best golf courses are unrecognisable, or worse, unplayable.

CHESTER-LE-STREET GOLF CLUB

MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE To enter one of our Opens visit www.clsgolfclub.co.uk/teetimes Check out the latest progress on our course development at

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Contact: Secretary 0191 388 3218 or email: clsgcoffice@tiscali.co.uk | PGA Professional 0191 388 2333 Chester le Street Golf Club, Lumley Park, County Durham, DH3 4NS

www.clsgolfclub.co.uk

RISINGSTAR

Baker’s a rising star

Jess Baker reflects on her first national title at the age of 14 and sets out her plans for the future with Dean Bailey

J

ess Baker catapulted herself into the national spotlight by winning the Midland Under 16 Girls Championship in April – competing among a field with many older players – and she’s already set her sights on the rest of the season.

Returning to her home club, Gosforth Park Ladies, following her first national title win at Hawkstone Park in Shropshire, Jess admits the attention following her win has been a little bit of a shock.

“It’s been exciting, but I don’t want to get too hung up on it,” she says, sitting alongside her father Steve at the Park just two weeks after her win.

Jess credits her first taste of leading a national event, at the English U14 Girls Championship last summer - where she finished in seventh place following a tough closing stretch in the final round, as a big part of claiming her first national title within just 12 months.

“Playing in the English Girls’ last year, I went into the lead and talking to England Golf before the final round, and knowing how big the event was so early in my golfing career, got to me. I unravelled on the back nine, got in a bit

32 NORTHERN GOLFER

of a tizz and didn’t really know how to react,” she admits.

“I feel so much more experienced now and having done that meant I knew what to do in the final round this time.”

At Hawkstone, Jess returned scores of 81, 75 and 76 including a final round back nine of one under-par, to beat long-term leader Mia EalesSmith from Lindrick Golf Club by one shot.

“I was one behind going into the final round and played with Mia. I fell to two behind in the first eight holes but I knew I preferred the back nine and that I could score on it so I had a chance.”

Jess birdied the ninth and 10th to catch back up with the Mia before cementing her position with tactical play down the stretch.

“My goal was to make pars and I played to find each fairway then the green. I tried to forget about where I was and just enjoy the moment. Last year I wouldn’t have done that and may not have performed as well without having learned how to relax and enjoy it all rather than worrying about my golf.

“I focussed on my breathing and just tried to stay in control of what I could and let everything else happen around me. The main thing was staying focussed and happy,” she explains.

RISINGSTAR

NORTHERN GOLFER 33

RISINGSTAR As well as competing in national events Jess is part of the Northumberland County girls’ and ladies’ teams, and is about to take her grade seven exams in piano and violin.

“I took a couple of days off to relax once I got home then got back on the driving range.

“We’ve played a county match since and I got our only win alongside Rosie Belsham. I’ve got some GCSE exams coming up before I play the big events this summer.”

Having picked up golf with her grandmother and father at the Park aged 10, Jess’ progression to an elite player has gone quickly. From getting her first handicap of 36 and being mentored by Carol Mair she has progressed to a handicap of four and has been part of the England Under 16 Regional Development Squad since she was 12. She has also recently received the Lee Westwood Scholarship from Close House for 2017.

“It’s a great feeling when you play well” “I’ve been part of the county and England systems for a while now and I’ve got loads of friends in those squads. We play a lot of golf together and get loads of experience and support from the coaches and experienced players.

“We keep in touch a lot and see each other all the time. The girls sent me loads of messages following the win and Rosie did well with a top five finish at Hawkstone too. Being part of a big group of girls my age makes it really good fun.”

Coached by Matfen Hall’s JJ Vallely and Hexham’s Andy Paisley, Jess practises every day as well as staying on top of schoolwork, her music and her fitness programme.

“It’s busy but I’m really enjoying my golf.

My diary is all set out for this year and it’s 34 NORTHERN GOLFER

Jessica Baker

going to be really busy this summer – I’ll be spending a lot of time travelling with my dad too which we always make good fun.

“The English and Scottish Girls will be really good events this year and I love going to County Match Week.”

Further ahead, Jess is hoping to head to college in the US on a golf scholarship - though she’s got a long time to prepare with her final GCSE exams still more than a year away.

“I love playing big events and want to keep

pushing myself to improve – it’s a great feeling when you play well. I’m not expecting to win anymore big events this year. I know I can do it now, which was important. I just want to play well and know I’ve done all I can each time I turn up to an event.”

With so many achievements on and off the golf course at the age of 14, her parents Steve and Louise supporting her every step, and with such a strong work ethic don’t be surprised if you see more of Jess in the next few years.

GEORGE WASHINGTON GOLF CLUB GREAT MEMBERSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE FOR 2017/18 7 Day £630 – 5 Day £490 No Fee Direct Debit Scheme available Other Flexible Memberships available including our fantastic 2 year Full at £1160 Pay off in year 1 with nothing to pay in year 2 Telephone 0191 4178346 or email gsd@georgewashington.co.uk To get full details of all of the brilliant offers.

FANTASTIC FLEXI MEMBERSHIP Great for Golfers new to the game and busy people 15 Rounds for £260 you choose when to play, weekdays or weekends

So come along and get into Golf at George Washington Golf Club Winners of the Durham County Golf Partnership “Get into Golf Centre of the Year 2015” “HSBC Golf Roots Project of the Year 2016” Telephone 0191 4178346 or email gsd@georgewashington.co.uk

Stone Cellar Road, High Usworth, NE37 1PH www.georgewashington.co.uk

DUMFRIESGALLOWAY

Cross Borders This month we head north to Dumfries & Galloway and find fine golf and a warm Scottish welcome SOUTHERNESS GOLF CLUB Set on the shores of the Solway Coast, Southerness Golf Club is one of the region’s most spectacular courses. Designed

by MacKenzie Ross and built in 1947, this championship links course is a true golfing test set in the rugged coastal landscape.

Located between the beauty of Criffel to the North and the Solway Firth to the south which leads to panoramic views of

Cumbrian and Galloway hills and on a good day the Isle of Man, you can expect a warm welcome and first-class facilities here.

On the course, the fairways are generous while the greens are fast and true with many subtle undulations making scoring tough. A good drive will be rewarded here but beware heading too far off line as you might not see your ball again.

The course has been managed by the current head greenkeeper for more than 20 years and this period of stability has produced a superb course which has earned an enviable reputation and has hosted a number of national and international events in the last 30 years.

Southerness Golf Club Southerness, Dumfries DG2 8AZ, tel 01387 880 677 www.southernessgolfclub.com

SOUTHERNESS GOLF CLUB 36 NORTHERN GOLFER

DUMFRIESGALLOWAY POWFOOT GOLF CLUB Set in the breathtaking Dumfriesshire landscape, Powfoot Golf Club presents a stunning combination of links land and parkland golf to produce a challenging layout.

Founded in 1903 with the course designed by Sandy Herd, the layout was redesigned by the legendary James Braid in 1923 and offers a superb test with challenging holes set among whins and rough, and beside the Solway Firth.

At 6,274 yards, the course isn’t the longest but makes up for its shorter length with a number of demanding tee shots, which often force you to play for the safety of the fairway with an iron rather than risking taking out driver and finding trouble. The best example of this can be found at the fifth, a 258-yard par three from the yellows which turns into a driveable par four of 272 yards from the medal tees.

Away from the golf course, you’ll find a warm Scottish welcome awaits you in the clubhouse.

Powfoot Golf Club, Cummertrees Annan, Dumfriesshire DG12 5QE, tel 01461 204 100 www.powfootgolfclub.com

POWFOOT GOLF CLUB

THE CAIRNDALE HOTEL ENGLISH STREET, DUMFRIES, SCOTLAND, DG1 2DF

Lockerbie Golf Club

LOCKERBIE GOLF CLUB HAS FRIENDLY STAFF, EXCELLENT CATERING AND VISITORS MOST WELCOME.

The ideal location for your next golfing break with a choice of more than 25 local courses Dumfries & Galloway Golf Breaks Weekend in JUNE 2 nights DBB plus 2 rounds of golf at Dumfries & Galloway and Colvend £189

The course is 18 holes 5463 yds par 67

Midweek in JULY 1 night DBB plus 1 round of golf at Dumfries & County £109

Green fees £22 – mid week. £27 – w/end. Group discounts available .

Lockerbie is also a member of the James Braid association.

Midweek in SEPTEMBER 2 nights DBB plus 2 rounds of golf at Dumfries & Galloway and Colvend £179

Catering and Buggy hire available.

Scan the QR Code for latest offers and events on our Facebook Page!

Lockerbie Golf club. Corrie Road, Lockerbie DG112ND Tel: 01576203363 Email: enquiries@lockerbiegolf.com www.lockerbiegolf.co.uk

Visit our Website www.cairndalehotel.co.uk or contact our Golf Coordinator Kevin Potts on 01387 240286 NORTHERN GOLFER 37

DUMFRIESGALLOWAY LOCKERBIE GOLF CLUB From its elevated setting, Lockerbie Golf Club affords stunning views over the Annandale Valley and the Lakeland hills while presenting a fine parkland test with tree-lined fairways and subtly contoured greens protecting the par 67 layout.

The original nine-hole course was designed by the legendary five-time Open Champion James Braid before a further nine holes were added in 1986.

Short by modern standards at 5,463 yards, the course is protected by trees, water and its small, sloping greens.

Water comes into play on three holes while five par threes present tricky tests of 100-200 yards. With no par fives, the par fours at Lockerbie range from great birdie chances to stern holes protected by hazards and thick rough – driver is often a risky play and caution can be best to unlock good scores here.

Situated on the east side of Lockerbie, just five minutes from the north and south exits of the M74, this is a great place to start your trip north.

Lockerbie Golf Club, Corrie Road Lockerbie, Dumfries & Galloway DG11 2ND, tel 01576 203 363 www.lockerbiegolf.co.uk

LOCKERBIE GOLF CLUB

One of Scotland’s best kept secrets Championship Quality, Natural Links, Visitors Welcome.

Please phone for Visitor Fees and Package Rates quoting NorthGolf7.

Telephone 01387 880677 | Email southernessgc@btconnect.com | www.southernessgolfclub.com 38 NORTHERN GOLFER

DUMFRIESGALLOWAY CAIRNDALE HOTEL

June 2017 Next month we’ll be visiting clubs on the Northumberland coast. To be part of this special feature contact: Graeme Heads E: graeme@offstonepublishing.co.uk T: 07591 961 888

THE CAIRNDALE HOTEL Situated in Dumfries town centre, the Cairndale Hotel is an ideal base for those heading north to sample the high quality golf and hospitality in Dumfries & Galloway and down into Cumbria.

The Cairndale Hotel’s Golf Co-ordinator, Kevin Potts, is an expert in his field with a wealth of contacts locally and further afield to ensure you get the right mix of golf courses around the counties during your break as well as arranging your tee times,

preferred meals and rooms in the hotel.

All golf breaks at the hotel include a full Scottish breakfast each morning, four-course Table D’hôtel dinner and free use of the hotel’s leisure facilities.

Check out the Facebook page www.facebook.com/ CairndaleHotel, for the latest offers and updates.

The Cairndale Hotel & Leisure Club 132-136 English Street, Dumfries DG1 2DF, tel 01387 254 111 www.cairndalehotel.co.uk

• Lifestyle 10 Membership • From 1st May to 30th September, giving 10 rounds of golf for £150

• Holiday Deal • 3 rounds within a 7 day period for £90, or 5 rounds within a 10 day period for £125

• Second Club Membership • 1st November 2017, prices starting as low as £150

• Country Membership • For those living 50+ miles away £265 Quote NG1 when booking, and receive a discount on normal golf rates

Powfoot Golf Club, Cummertrees, Annan, DG12 5QE

T: 01461 204 100 E: info@powfootgolfclub.com NORTHERN GOLFER 39

ROUNDWITH

A ROUND WITH...

Steve Cram

The Jarrow Arrow tells us about his golf, favourite playing partners and fondest on-course memories

S

teve Cram CBE dominated the world of middle distance running in the 1980s, winning Olympic 1500m silver in 1984 in Los Angeles as well as World Championship gold in 1983 in Helsinki, and European and Commonwealth golds in 1982 and 1986.

He was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 1983 and following his ontrack career he has become one of the voices of athletics on the BBC, leading the athletics coverage at the 2012 Olympics in London as well as being part of the team covering major sporting events around the world.

Between his broadcasting, coaching and charity commitments - his annual Celebrity Golf Day in aid of COCO is on June 22 - we caught up to find out more about his time on the golf course…

1 With a packed schedule how do you fit golf in?

Sadly there’s not enough golf in my life right now. Ironically, I had more time to play when I was an athlete but with such a busy work schedule, and all the travelling and athletics to cover around the world, I struggle to get more than three games a year in.

STEVE CRAM’S ON-TRACK CAREER 1980 Made his Olympic debut in Moscow, Russia aged 19 and finished eighth in the 1500m final 1982 Won Commonwealth 1500m gold in Brisbane and European Championship 1500m gold in Athens 1983 Won World Championship 1500m gold in Helsinki 1984 Won Olympic 1500m silver in Los Angeles

4 And further afield?

It’s really difficult to compare the amazing courses I’ve had the pleasure of playing over the years. I love Archerfield in East Lothian and Desert Springs in Almanzora but it would have to be Red Rocks in Denver, Colorado where I spent many months training – I have so many fantastic memories of playing there.

40 NORTHERN GOLFER

6 Which is your favourite golfing memory?

Teeing off at the opening of the PGA Centenary Course at Gleneagles alongside the likes of Sir Jackie Stewart and Sean Connery in front of a packed crowd and TV cameras. All my playing partners were out of bounds after their opening tee shots so I had to play the hole by myself.

7 What about embarrassing moments?

I’ve never won a prize at my own golf day… ever!

8 Do you have any superstitions?

No. I didn’t have any through my running career either.

9 What are your strengths on the course?

I make sure I don’t hit the ball too far so I can still see it. Apart from that, I’d say putting under pressure.

10 And your weaknesses?

These days I play safe off the tee and rarely use a driver so distance is always an issue.

2 How did you get into golf?

I started playing with friends in my early 20s to help pass the time between training sessions.

3 Which is your favourite course in the North East?

It would have to be the Hunting Course at Slaley Hall.

5 What’s your best ever round?

I don’t think I’ve ever broken 80. I’ve definitely shot 81s and 82s in a few different places...but not recently!

1985 Broke three world records (1500m, mile and 2000m) in 19 days and was beaten only three times in the year 1986 Won Commonwealth gold at 800m and 1500m in Edinburgh

11 Which is your favourite club?

My seven iron.

12 Who is your best golfing mate?

The best company around a golf course any in the world has to be my old pal Daley Thompson - no one sledges like him!

13 How does your sporting background help your golf?

It’s probably more of a hindrance; I get too competitive most games. I have learned to move on from bad shots pretty quickly though and not let it ruin the rest of my game.

14 Who is your favourite tour player?

Justin Rose.

15 Which event do you enjoy the most?

It has to be The Masters. It’s still my ambition to get there although it often clashes with the London Marathon.

16 Which sportsmen do you admire?

Current sportsperson would have to be Usain Bolt.

17 Which three people would join you in your dream fourball?

Barack Obama, Elvis Presley and Marlon Brando.

18 If I could offer you Olympic gold or a scratch handicap, which would you take?

Looking back to my athletics career, I’m not sure I’d turn down changing the colour of my Olympic medal for a scratch handicap, it would have to be the Olympic gold. I think I’m satisfied with being a struggling, fair weather hacker…and I’ll keep the Olympic medal in the cupboard with the memories!

Steve hosts his annual Celebrity Golf Day in aid of COCO at Slaley Hall June 22.

For more information and to enter a team visit www.coco.org.uk

ROUNDWITH ROUNDWITH

NORTHERN GOLFER 41 NORTHERN GOLFER 41

CHARITYGOLF

Ladies support hospices The Durham County Ladies’ Golf Association will be supporting local hospices with its 2017 charity drive.

County captain Christine Mair is hoping to be able to donate cheques to various hospices across the North East at the end of the year with fundraising planned throughout the summer.

“I feel the small local hospices sometimes get forgotten due to the national charities excellent fundraising activities,” she said.

The hospices set to benefit from the 2017 charity drive, which is supported by each of the county’s clubs, are Butterwick, St Teresa’s, St Cuthbert’s, St Benedict’s, Willowburn and St Clare’s.

42 NORTHERN GOLFER

Peter Stoten (left), charity administrator for Daft As A Brush and Longhirst Hall assistant professional Billy Kingsland

Teeing off for Daft As A Brush

G

olfers from across the region are set to tee off to help cancer support charity Daft As A Brush.

The Dawson & Sanderson golf day will take place at Longhirst Hall Golf Course in Northumberland in May 12 and the team is hoping to raise £8,000 on the day for the charity.

The Newcastle-based travel agency has been fundraising to support Daft As A Brush’s free transport service for patients across the north of England throughout the year.

Longhirst Hall’s director of golf Graham Chambers said: “It looks set to be a fantastic day, with lots of teams already registered representing companies across the North East. We’re hoping to get some of the Newcastle United players along as well and have some signed footballs and shirts for the auction and raffle.

“It’s an amazing cause to support and hopefully the golf day will help Dawson & Sanderson smash

its £20,000 fundraising target for Daft As A Brush.”

The travel agency has been supporting Daft As A Brush all year to help contribute towards the costs of the charity’s innovative service - which collects cancer patients from their homes for hospital appointments before dropping them back at home afterwards.

Staff have held bake sales, tuck shops, bike rides, sponsored walks and runs and a zip wire dash from the Tyne Bridge to help beat the target.

Chris Harrison, managing director of Dawson & Sanderson, said: “Our charity campaign for Daft As A Brush has truly caught the imagination of our staff and customers and it looks like we will smash our £20,000 target at the golf day.

“It’s amazing that we can host the tournament at Longhirst as the resort was set up by our founder Tommy Dawson and it will provide a fantastic venue with both courses hosting events on the PGA EuroPro Tour. in recent years”

CHARITYGOLF

Butterwick betterball

David and Ruth Syson with club treasurer Neil Cuthbert, Andrea Emerson, Breda Johnstone, Carol McKenzie and Jill Syson

Chester’s caring captain

D

avid Syson’s year as captain of Chester-leStreet Golf Club raised more than £2,000 for charity.

David chose Durham County Carers Support (DCCS) as his charity during last year, and he and wife Ruth, son Andrew, friends and family hosted a range of events including Captain’s Day, the Captain’s membership draw plus various social events and raffles.

With the help of donations from members and the club, £2,200 was raised and DCCS volunteer coordinator Andrea Emerson was presented with the

cheque recently at the golf club.

David and Ruth care for their son Peter and know what it means to be in a caring role so wanted to do something to thank Durham County Carers Support for their help over the years and raise awareness of the work of the charity in the area.

Jenni Wood, CEO of DCCS, said: “This is a fantastic amount of money which will enable us to continue to fund projects like carers counselling sessions, the carers transport fund and our current project to fund an apprentice starting in April 2018. It is very much appreciated.”

Carus Green raises funds for Rosemere Cancer Foundation A nine-hole fun day at Carus Green Golf Club raised £1,762 for Lancashire-based charity Rosemere Cancer Foundation.

More than 40 players competed in the mixed competition organised by Norma Owen to raise funds for the Foundation’s 20th anniversary appeal, which hopes to raise £1.5m.

Located at the Royal Norma Owen holds the banner (left) with Rosemere’s Tammy Preston Hospital, the Hoskins (right) foundation is South Cumbria and Lancashire’s regional specialist cancer out to enjoy the day. It was a very good-humoured treatment centre. competition and most importantly we raised a Selling more than 1,000 raffle tickets ahead of considerable sum for an extremely worthy cause. the event, Norma received donations from a number “Thanks to everybody who attended, all those of local businesses ahead of the event. She said: who donated a raffle prize and to Carus Green for “I am delighted that so many supporters turned their generosity in hosting the event.”

Teams are being sought for two charity golf days in support of Butterwick Hospice in Teesside.

The Butterwick Golf Trophy, sponsored by Document Solutions, takes place at Wynyard Golf Club on Friday June 30.

Teams of two can enter for £50 to play in a fourball betterball format, with prizes for nearest the pin and longest drive.

Tee times are from 12.30pm1.30pm and the event is followed by a presentation and three-course meal. Teams should register with handicaps by Friday June 23 by contacting Lee Allinson, tel 01642 253 340 or email lee@documentsolutionsltd.co.uk Meanwhile, on Friday June 23, Dinsdale Spa Golf Club will play host to the Rotary Club of Teesside West’s 18th Annual Charity Golf Day raising money for Butterwick House Hospice as well as JDRF, the juvenile type one diabetes charity.

Entries can be made online via the Dinsdale Spa Golf Club website, www.dinsdalespagolfclub.co.uk or by contacting the Rotary Club, tel 01642 645 857 or email jeffrey.lupton@ntlworld.com

Police day Wilton Golf Club will host the sixth Jack Finlay Trophy next month.

The format for the competition is seven teams of five players with the four best stableford scores to count.

The competition, organised by Cleveland Police, will be held on June 12 with the seven teams being Hartlepool District, Stockton District, Middlesbrough District, Redcar & Cleveland District, Headquarters, Specialist Ops and Retired.

The highest combined total from each team will be the winner.

Last year’s champions were the operations team.

NORTHERN GOLFER 43

ADVERTORIAL GOLFNEWS

GET INTO GOLF T

he benefits of playing golf are huge – whether you’re spending an hour on a par three course in the evening or retired and playing a few holes each morning with friends at your local club.

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Through its network of 33 County Golf Partnerships, England Golf works with golf clubs and PGA professionals to offer taster sessions, beginner courses and follow-on activities and memberships.

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Community Golf Club

44 44NORTHERN NORTHERNGOLFER GOLFER

ADVERTORIAL

WELCOME BACK BURGHAM PARK ...

One of the finest courses in the region is back up and running to full capacity, with PGA Professional Kevin Gow at the helm, ably aided by wife Jacqui, daughter Sam and brother Jason.

A full decorative overhaul of the clubhouse has been completed and exciting plans are underway to convert the old pro shop and downstairs conservatory into a spike bar.

Traditional and wholesome golf food and snacks are available from the refurbished kitchen to go with the fully stocked bar, which offers fabulous views all the way up the superb 18th finishing hole.

The golf course itself is in excellent shape and extra greenstaff will be joining from early May to ensure the

course is presented and maintained to the high standards members and visitors have come to expect at such a popular golf venue.

A brand new fleet of 10 buggies are also available for hire.

Membership numbers have remained high at the club and there is a full diary of competitions for both men and ladies.

New members are always welcome and new junior membership will be a key focus for the club.

Corporate membership offers are superb and a new five-day membership with no age limit is proving popular.

Kevin and the team are looking to get a real family feel back to the club and a fabulous diary of social events is in the offing.

Call Kevin now on 07868 225194 for the latest update on the club’s developments.

2017 BURGHAM PARK OPENS GENTS OPEN 4BBB Sunday 9th July £20.00 per pair Bacon Sandwich & Coffee/ Tea included on arrival LADIES OPEN Teams of Three Monday 4th September £24.00 per team Bacon Sandwich & Coffee/ Tea included on arrival

LADIES OPEN 4BBB Monday 24th July £20.00 per pair Bacon Sandwich & Coffee/ Tea included on arrival

SENIORS OPEN 4BBB (55yrs or older) Tuesday 14th September £20.00 per pair Bacon Sandwich & Coffee/ Tea included on arrival

MIXED OPEN Greensomes Stableford.

Sunday 20th August £20.00 per pair Bacon Sandwich & Coffee/ Tea included on arrival

GENTS AUTUMN OPEN 4BBB Sunday 24th September £20.00 per pair Bacon Sandwich & Coffee/ Tea included on arrival

GENTS AUTUMN TEXAS SCRAMBLE (3man team) Sunday 8th October £30.00 per team Bacon Sandwich & Coffee/ Tea included on arrival

How to Enter; • WWW.GOLFEMPIRE.CO.UK • CALL THE OFFICE ON 01670 787898 • POSTAL ENTRIES DIRECT TO THE CLUB Competitors with non competition handicaps are more than welcome to play in our Opens , but will not be able to win a prize.

We want all golfers to enjoy our golf course and clubhouse , the winning of a prize is just a bonus!

Burgham, Nr Felton, Northumberland NE65 8QP Email: burghamparkgolfclub@gmail.com www.burghampark.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 45

NOSTALGIA Sandy Lyle

Making a name for themselves

Andrew Wilson receives the trophy

The 43rd North of England Open Amateur Youth Championship will be held at Middlesbrough’s Brass Castle in August in association with Northern Golfer. Alan Hedley looks at the tournament’s history

T

he North of England Open Amateur Youth Championship has long been recognised as an important event in the amateur golfing calendar and was given official weight in 2008 by the R&A and now counts toward the World Amateur Golf Rankings.

Some of the biggest names in world golf have played in the event including three Masters

Jamie Bower with the Brabazon Trophy

46 NORTHERN GOLFER

champions in Sandy Lyle, Ian Woosnam and Danny Willett.

Lyle was, in fact, the third winner of the tournament while Woosnam and Willett went home empty handed as did Ryder Cup legend Colin Montgomerie.

The event began in 1975 out of a suggestion by the 1967 Middlesbrough Golf Club champion John MacGill and the trophy consequently bears his name. The R&A and the English Golf Union (now England Golf) gave their blessing to the event and in August 1975 the first drive of the very first championship was struck by Teesside’s Jeff Knaggs in a field of 119 competitors.

The entrance fee that year was £3 and the field was limited to 150 golfers with a handicap five or better.

The field was cut to 50 after two rounds, with a 36-hole final day.

In 2008 the handicap limit was reduced to four, the field cut to 132, and the cut mark to 40 players. It is now a much tighter tournament in

all respects. In 1977 Claude Fairweather presented The Fairweather Salver for competitors under the age of 18 and in 1994, Frank and Sheila Bates presented a salver to be won by the best home player.

In 1976, David Marquis organised radio transmission of scores for a full hole-by-hole scoreboard - which he designed. The scoreboard was produced by Dents Automotive Repairs of Middlesbrough and financed by Neashams Motors, and is still used today with the only modification being the use of computer-generated name cards rather than chalk ones.

At the first championship, members responded enthusiastically by providing free accommodation for 70 of the 119 contestants. Most provided bed and breakfast, but some even supplied evening meals and many long-term friendships were forged.

The accommodation scene changed somewhat through the 1990s and few competitors now look for accommodation from members.

David Hunter has meticulously recorded the stories of the championship over the years and much of what is being read here is from David’s files and the comprehensive programme he produces every year for the tournament.

NOSTALGIA Ryder Cup legend Colin Montgomerie never won the Middlesbrough title, but he did win the European Tour Order of Merit eight times. Meanwhile Ian Woosnam became world number one, was a Masters champion and a Ryder Cup Captain, while Sandy Lyle won The Open and the Masters.

Montgomerie also went on to win on the US Champions Tour while Roger Chapman, who won at Brass Castle in 1979, completed a major double by winning the US Senior Open and Senior PGA Championships in 2012.

Other North of England Youth Open winners include Sky Sports’ Richard Boxall, Michael King, David Horsey and Richard Finch. All became winners on the European Tour, as did the likes of North East players Graeme Storm and Kenneth Ferrie, Jonathan Lomas, Andrew Oldcorn and Simon Dyson although none of them claimed the North of England title.

Walker Cup player Jonathan Lupton became the first Middlesbrough player to win of the title in 2000 - a popular triumph while Richard Walker, from Brancepeth and Wearside, was a winner in 1990 and 1992.

The first North East winner, Newcastle-born Craig Cassells, spent most of his amateur career in Scotland and was another Walker Cup player.

More recently, Darlington’s Andrew Wilson, an England international and Northumbria University student, won the title in 2013, and with the tournament backed by England Golf and counting in the World Amateur Golf Rankings as well as the England Under 18 Order of Merit, it continues to attract the best amateur golfers from around Europe.

Club captain Paul Artley is anticipating another successful year for the North of England Youths Open.

“The tournament continues to produce the highest standards and with the quality of golf makes it a huge success. Our course manager John Talbot along with greens chairman Derek Slack and our greenstaff will ensure a top quality course with excellent fairways and fast, true greens,” he said.

“Our thanks go to all our sponsors and advertisers, without their support we could not continue to improve, while club members give up their course for the championship and I am sure all competitors and guests really appreciate this generous gesture.” *Follow Northern Golfer for details before and after the tournament, which takes place August 8-10.

Roger Chapman

Richard Boxall

Past Champions Sandy Lyle’s first appearance in the tournament in 1976 saw him finish fourth and he returned the following year to win the event with two opening rounds of 66 followed by 72 70 for a 72-hole record score which stood until 1996.

In 1979, the championship rolled over to the Saturday for the first time because rain washed out Friday. To amuse the contestants the club took the players to Billingham Forum to play five-a-side football.

Roger Chapman was leading at the time and the other contestants playfully tried to “kick Roger off the park”, but he emerged unscathed going on to win the following day.

Richard Boxall’s 1982 win also stands out. Boxall had scores of 65, 63, and 61 and he wore an all-red outfit which saw him labelled the Red Baron by the press.

He needed another 65 to break the world 72-hole record of 252 then held by Peter Tupling, but fog prevented him by curtailing the fourth round to nine holes and Boxall shot 34 to win by 17 shots.

Jonathan Lupton is the only Middlesbrough player to win the championship so far.

His victory in 2000 saw him come from behind to win. He opened with 67 but a second round 74 was a

David Horsey

disappointment. He would take 10 shots off that in the third round and set a new course record of 64 at the time before closing with a 67 for victory.

The 2005 championship came to a thrilling climax with Steve Uzzell winning with a magnificent 17 under-par 263 - the lowest ever recorded total. He was chased all the way by Matthew Mills, whose 267 would probably have won it many other years.

David Horsey was a runaway winner in 2006 with 267 - the second best finish in the event’s history.

England cap Horsey’s third round 64 set him up for the title but he was pushed all the way by his England teammate Danny Willett.

Jamie Bower served notice of a winning talent when he won the title two years running.

In 2011, he shot rounds of 66, 70, 69 and 67 and he was back 12 months later with sizzling scores of 67, 66, 66 and 68 to reatin the trophy.

It would have been a hat-trick had he not lost the 2010 championship to Ian Winstanley in a playoff.

Meanwhile, Andrew Wilson’s 2013 victory came 13 years after his coach Jonathan Lupton won the event. It was a memorable year for Jonathan the Darlington and Northumbria University Lupton player. He topped the Durham County Order of Merit, won the British Universities title and established himself in the England squad.

A blistering course record of 62 in the final round saw Yorkshire’s Will Whiteoak come from three back to win the 2014 title.

NORTHERN GOLFER 47

COURSEREVIEW

Fun at Headlam Dean Bailey visits a short course and finds a fine golfing test

C

ounty Durham is blessed with many fine inland courses – some of them long tests of driving skills and many of them stretching well beyond the 2,115-yard nine-hole course at Headlam Hall.

Though it is short, the course is a fantastic layout with three very tricky pars fours, a sweeping dogleg par five and five brilliant par threes.

Opening with a long par three of 189 yards, the course plays far tougher than you would expect from its yardage. A water hazard runs down the left side of the first and cuts back towards the front edge of the green, getting to within a few paces of the putting surface and making for a daunting opening tee shot. The hazard continues around the left side of the green and to the back while the two-tiered green is small and protected by mounding to the right.

At 261 yards, the second will be driveable for many – though it is an incredibly risky shot. Out 48 NORTHERN GOLFER

of bounds looms left while trees protect the right side of the fairway. A bunker cuts into the right side around 180 yards from the tee and must be navigated around should you lay up. A large bunker left and pond right protect the kidneyshaped green which slopes back to front and will force the ball away from the centre of the green.

An iron off the tee is highly recommended here.

The 139-yard third is one of the simpler par threes here, though you must avoid the water left and long of the green again.

Heading up the hill to the par five fourth, an iron is again safest from the tee – aim left of the single tree to the right side for the best line. If you take driver aim right of the tree to go over the corner – though beware the hazard at the bottom of the hill should you go too far right and the out of bounds left. From the top of the hill, play left and allow the ball to run to the right for a flatter lie beside the hazard. Anything from the middle or left of the fairway will leave a tricky pitch to a

green which falls away steeply on the right side.

The toughest par three, the fifth plays all of its 228 yards from an elevated tee. A water hazard crosses the hole some 40 yards short of the green and will catch any short approaches. The green is generous and flatter than most here – but finding it is very tough.

The sixth is another reachable par four at 269 yards back up the hill – though many will choose to play a long iron from the tee as the fairway is bordered by steep slopes and rough.

Tall trees protect the left side of the green and will make an approach from the left tricky.

The standout par three, the seventh got our pick for signature hole (see fact file).

COURSEREVIEW Opened in June 2004, Headlam Hall is a fantastic course to sharpen your game. As well as the high-quality golf course you’ll find a 10-bay floodlit driving range, putting green and Steven Carpenter’s pro shop here. With first-class facilities and a course in excellent condition there’s no better place to get your game in order

FACT FILE CONTACT Headlam Hall Golf Club Headlam, near Gainford, Darlington DL2 3HA, tel 01325 732 113 www.headlamhall.co.uk GREEN FEES Nine holes £15 18 holes £20 Juniors half price Stay & play, visiting party and tuition break offers available. See website for details.

TOTAL DISTANCE Yellow tees 2,115 yards Red tees 1,935 yards

Turning for home, the par four eighth is defended by out of bounds left which hides the green from the tee. At 231 yards many can reach the green, which is just beyond the corner, though a water hazard to the left side will gather anything pulled towards it. The green sits in a bowl with a steep bank right with two bunkers protecting the front right of the large green.

The ninth measures 151 yards and is a good chance for a birdie finish. A generous green is protected by a bunker left which is hidden from view while mounding and rough guards the right side. Find the green and you should have a good chance for a closing two here.

FEATURES 10-bay floodlit driving range Putting green Professional’s shop and tuition Changing facilities CADDY’S TIP Leave the driver in the bag!

SIGNATURE HOLE The 114-yard seventh is a brilliant par three and a fitting signature hole. Played over a lake which wraps around the left and right sides of the green making offline shots even more likely to find the hazard, this is one of the best looking par threes you’ll find in the region. Protected by tall trees and steep mounding to the back of the green there is no miss here – you simply must find the green.

OUR VERDICT A fun test with many different shots and excellent greens, and one of the finest par threes in the region NORTHERN GOLFER 49

GOLFERGEAR

Gearing up for summer This month we look inside the bag of Masters champion Sergio Garcia and detail the clubs which helped him win his maiden major title, plus we have the latest equipment and apparel from Under Armour, FootJoy, Motocaddy, Galvin Green, MacGregor and more.

FINE THREADS Under Armour SS17 apparel RRP from £30 www.underarmour.co.uk Jordan Spieth unveiled the latest apparel from Under Armour at this year’s Masters – headlined by five new polos. The new designs, ranging from £30-£60, feature industry leading technology – from the Threadborne polo’s Microthread system which dries faster and stretches without absorbing sweat to the CoolSwitch Trajectory polo’s 30+ UPF protection and the Performance polo’s four-way stretch fabrication.

IF THE SHOE FITS

FootJoy spikeless shoes RRP from £75 www.footjoy.co.uk

ELITE PERFORMANCE Macgregor DCT Elite irons RRP £225 www.macgregor-golf.co.uk MacGregor has released its latest line of irons – the DCT Elite – promising a blend of forgiveness, power and value for money. Manufactured from 431 stainless steel, the oversized head design is packed full of performance features with perimeter weighting and an under-cut cavity offering extreme forgiveness across the entire clubface. Available with Rifle steel or lightweight graphite shafts.

50 NORTHERN GOLFER

Whether you’re on the course or in the clubhouse, the new range of FootJoy spikeless footwear will suit your style. The four designs – SuperLites XP, AWD XL Casual, Contour Casual and VersaLuxe – cover everything from a casual to traditional look. The VersaLuxe (£145) leads the range and features calfskin leather uppers and leather linings and is available in four colourways. Meanwhile, the SuperLites XP (£95) is the most casual of the styles with a waterproof finish and bags of flexibility and grip.

GOLFERGEAR

HEY BUDDY GolfBuddy WTX and WT6 watches RRP £199.99 www golfbuddyglobal.com GolfBuddy has launched two new GPS watches for the 2017 season, including a new top of the range WTX watch.

Billed as its most advanced GPS watch ever, the touchscreen WTX features the option to see the hole layout including your current position, a dynamic green view for more accurate yardages, shot distance measurement, pin selection and the standard front, middle and back yardages.

It’s also compatible with your smartphone with on-course updates available to download automatically via Bluetooth and added fitness watch features.

SOFTER FEEL Wilson Staff DX2 Soft and DX3 golf balls RRP from £19.99 www.wilson.com Wilson Staff’s three additions to its golf ball lines from 2017 – the DX2 Soft, DX3 Spin and DX3 Urethane – are available now. The two-piece DX2 Soft (£19.99) is designed for longer hitters looking for feel around the greens while the three-piece DX3 Spin (£24.99) is billed as the softest multilayer ball on the market by the manufacturer.

The DX3 Urethane (£29.99) boasts high spin and feel and sits at the top of the new lines.

LOOKING GOOD Adidas adiPure apparel RRP TBC www.adidas.co.uk Adidas will launch its new adiPure apparel line on July 1 with tour players including Justin Rose already showcasing the new looks around the world.

Bringing together proven technologies with modern styling, the latest line of adidas golfwear includes polo shirts, outerwear, shorts and trousers designed to fuse golf and lifestyle, and was worn by Rose at the 2017 Masters.

NORTHERN GOLFER 51

GOLFERGEAR THE RIGHT TROUSERS Oscar Jacobson 2017 trousers RRP from £70 www.oscarjacobson.com Oscar Jacobson’s 2017 trouser collection offers a choice of cuts and fits perfect for on and off the golf course. With more than 100 years of tailoring expertise the new collection – which features Laurent, Brent, Dave, Greg and Greg Tour styles – showcases industry-leading design and meticulous craftsmanship. Laurent, Dave and Brent designs each offer a slim fit with a unique cut while Greg and Greg Tour designs offer a classic fit.

STAY CONNECTED

Motocaddy S5 Connect RRP from £549.99 www.motocaddy.com/uk

Motocaddy has unveiled the first trolley to bring together transporting your clubs, a GPS system and a mobile app. The app links to the trolley via Bluetooth and provides front, middle and back yardages as well as alerts for texts, calls and other mobile apps. The S5 Connect also maintains popular Motocaddy features from the soft-touch ergonomic handle and streamlined battery tray to Quickfold mechanism and quick release wheels.

The free app is available for iOS and Android and features 36,000 courses.

LIGHTEST EVER Galvin Green BOW Shell Layer jacket RRP £200 www.galvingreen.com Galvin Green’s latest jacket – the BOW Shell Layer – has been released as part of the brand’s Part One range for 2017. The ‘virtually weightless’ jacket, which weighs just 107g – less than two golf balls, is water repellent, windproof and is highly breathable thanks to its GORE WINDSTOPPER Active Shell fabric construction.

52 NORTHERN GOLFER

GOLFERGEAR

IN THE BAG

© Chatchai Somwat / Shutterstock.com

With Masters champion Sergio Garcia

NEW LOOK Titleist Vokey SMG wedges RRP £140 www.titleist.co.uk Titleist has unveiled a new finish for its industry-leading Vokey SM6 wedge line. The new brushed copper finish will be available for a limited time and is the product of a black oxide finish which is brushed to reveal the copper plating underneath. Available in lofts from 46°-62°.

Spaniard Sergio Garcia captured the hearts of the golfing world and his first major championship in Georgia in April. The Ryder Cup legend, who collected his 31st worldwide win at The Masters, rose to seventh in the world with the victory and dedicated the achievement to the legendary Seve Ballesteros who would have turned 60 on Masters Sunday. Here’s what was in his bag…

TaylorMade 2017 M2, 9.5˚

TaylorMade 2017 M1, 15˚ & 19˚

TaylorMade TP5

TaylorMade P-750 Tour Proto, 3-PW

OLD SCHOOL

CobraPuma Heritage Collection RRP £30 www.cobragolf.co.uk/pumagolf Cobra Puma Golf and staffer Bryson DeChambeau have revealed the brand’s Heritage Collection to celebrate the game’s rich history through “throwback” style and equipment. The collection includes a limited edition wood grain Cobra King F7 driver as well as apparel and footwear.

TaylorMade Spider Tour Red

TaylorMade Milled Grind, 54˚ & 58˚

NORTHERN GOLFER 53

GOLFERTIPS

John Harrison tel 01661 8 86 400 www.matf enhall.com

SOLE MAN

We often find unpredictable lies around the green – perhaps sitting up in thick rough or down on a hard, closely mown area – and this can make striking the ball consistently with the wedges tough.

Instead of reaching for the sand wedge pick out a hybrid or lofted fairway wood, they have great versatility and can offer a great deal of consistency with a little practice.

To play the shot, adopt a putting stance with the ball and your weight slightly forward of centre. From here, grip down the shaft to a comfortable position and feel as though the club is gliding across the turf – much like your putting stroke. The thicker sole and low weighting of the clubhead will help eliminate fluffed shots and any grabbing or twisting of the clubhead around impact making those short chips much simpler.

54 NORTHERN GOLFER

HIT LONGER, HIT STRAIGHTER Have your clubs correctly fitted

F F O % 10 s &

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NORTH EAST TROLLEY REPAIR SPECIALIST

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW FULL REPORT ON: Grips | Shafts | Lofts | Lies

We’re Open 9am - 5.30pm Mon - Sat T: 0191 2702362 E: info@zflgolf.co.uk www.golfgear4less.co.uk Unit 8d, North Tyne Ind. Estate, NE12 9SZ – Opposite ASDA Benton.

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PowerBug GT £399 with Mini Lithium 27 Hole Battery

NORTHERN GOLFER 55

GOLFERCOMPETITIONS

win Northern Golfer competitions are also listed on our website www.northerngolfer.co.uk/ competitions, Alternatively, you can enter via email at competitions@ northerngolfer.co.uk (mark the competition name in the subject field) or post your entry to: Competitions, Northern Golfer, Unit One, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7AL Please include your contact details and telephone number.

Closing date Thursday June 1, 2017.

Usual competition rules apply – available on request. Winners will be published in our next edition.

.WIN A TRIP TO DUMFRIES FOR FOUR PEOPLE INCLUDING ACCOMMODATION, DINNER, BREAKFAST AND GOLF The Cairndale Hotel, Dumfries is offering Northern Golfer readers a fantastic prize this month.

Located in the centre of town, the award-winning hotel is a fantastic hub for golfers with expert Golf Co-ordinator Kevin Potts on-hand to arrange visits to the finest courses in Dumfries & Galloway and down into Cumbria. The prize includes a full Scottish breakfast, a four-course Table D’Hote dinner, full use of the leisure facilities, free car parking, free wifi, a meet and greet with Golf Co-ordinator Kevin Potts, two bedrooms (twin or doubles for a party of four), and one round of golf at a chosen golf course in Dumfries & Galloway or Cumbria. Subject to availability of hotel accommodation and tee times.

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Which course is set to host the 2017 Scottish Open?

.WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT .WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT .WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT ALNWICK CASTLE GC BURGHAM PARK GC SEASCALE GC The stunning parkland layout at Alnwick Castle Golf Club is a must visit for those heading north.

At just over 6,200 yards, the course isn’t long but can be challenging with a number of risk and reward holes and welldefended greens.

Reopened earlier this year, Burgham Park remains one of Northumberland’s finest championship golf courses.

Designed by Ryder Cup legend Mark James and Andrew Mair, this 7,000-yard layout is no pushover with a number of demanding tee shots and tricky approaches.

On the west coast of Cumbria with views out to the Isle of Man and back to the mountains of the Lake District, Seascale is a classic English links.

Designed by Willie Campbell and George Lowe, the course is regularly included among the UK’s finest.

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Who won the 2002 Masters Tournament at Augusta National?

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Where will the 2017 Solheim Cup be played in August?

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: How many major championships has Tom Watson won?

Congratulations to last month’s competition winners: Moor Allerton - Joyce Jeary of Chester-le-Street • Hobson - Paul Quinn of Consett Boldon - Sidney Forster of High Pittington • Ripon City - Trevor Hume of Washington 56 NORTHERN GOLFER

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MATCHPLAYPAIRS

Onyria Palmares Beach & Golf Resort

Seconds out...

Match Play Pairs 2017 is underway across the North East and Yorkshire

T

he Northern Golfer Match Play Pairs 2017 tournament is underway across the North East and Yorkshire with teams competing for a trip to the stunning Onyria Palmares Beach Golf Resort and the coveted title.

A total of 66 teams will compete for this year’s title and a place in the NE/NW PGA Pro Am in Portugal alongside our region’s best professionals – with flights, accommodation and golf at the Onyria Palmares Beach Golf Resort in The Algarve all included.

Played throughout the season, teams are drawn against one another in a knockout format, played with 90% handicap allowance.

This year’s first round will take place throughout May and June with matches to be played by Sunday June 25.

The final four teams will make it to Middlesbrough Golf Club for the semi-finals on Sunday October 8. The final will be played at Middlesbrough Golf Club on October 15 with the winning pair heading to the Algarve in November.

This year you can keep up to date with all the results and round draws live at www.northerngolfer.co.uk/mpp2017 For more information go to www.northerngolfer.co.uk or contact Dean Bailey, dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk, tel 01661 844 115.

58 NORTHERN GOLFER

Preliminary Round draw Match 1 Anthony Lawlor & Stuart Vickery (Chester-le-Street) V Russell Jacques & Neil Glenndining (Newbiggin)

Match 2 Ted Cromar & Graham Dodds (Morpeth) V Kenny Cramman & Paul Murphy (Newbiggin) MATCHES TO BE PLAYED BY SUNDAY MAY 28

Match 3 John Potts & Graeme Robson (Ramside) V Edmund Thompson & David Jenkinson (Wearside/Houghton-le-Spring)

Match 4 Jason Budd & Phil Graham (Bishop Auckland/Morpeth) V Chris Marshall & Lee Murray (Hartlepool/Wynyard)

Match 5 Doug Ellison & Richard Mellor (Slaley) V Chris Burgess & Steve Whelton (Ramside)

Round 1 draw Match 1 William Bell & Mick McCabe (Ineos) V Winners of Preliminary Round Match 1

Match 6 Graeme Ogilvie & Bob Fawbert (Rudding Park) V Rob Shanks & Malcolm Cregan (Westerhope/Boldon)

Match 2 Colin Marshall & Paul Tindale (Durham City) V Stuart McIntosh & Craig Watts (Wilton)

Match 7 Alan Brady & Matthew Harper (Durham City) V Clive Harbron & Bernie Gowler (Hartlepool)

MATCHPLAYPAIRS Match 8 David Bridge & Derek Shaw (South Moor) V Peter Gallagher & Neil Walmsley (Durham City)

Match 18 Luke Eustace & Mark Kelly (Selby) V Brian Ord & Karl Nolan (Whitburn)

Match 29 Steve Slater & Andy O’neil (City of Newcastle) V Winners of Preliminary Round Match 2

Match 9 Andrew Foster & Stephen Foster (Romanby) V David Hornsey & Barry Cranston (Consett)

Match 19 Simon Lunn & Steven Hepplewhite (Arcot) V Andrew Martin & Mark Morgan (Stocksfield)

Match 30 David Cameron & Rod Martin (Beamish) V Paul Gray & Phil O’Ware (Sharpley)

Match 10 David Morton & David Loughlin (Boldon) V Michael Davison & David Scott (Bellingham)

Match 20 Adam Murphy & Brendan Murphy (Tynedale) V Craig Beadling & Jamie McPhillips (Romanby)

Match 31 Blaine Patton & Gary Atkinson (Durham City) V Malcolm Lumsden & Richard White (Wallsend)

Match 11 Robert Woods & Lee Sloane (Sharpley/ City of Newcastle) V Tony Sher & Jimmy Broadfoot (Sharpley/Prudhoe)

Match 21 Anth Mckeown & Alan Slater (Ramside) V Alan Saunders & Stephen Weldon (Westerhope)

Match 32 David Robison & Keith Goulbourn (Whickham) V Steve Buxton & Dave Smith (Romanby)

Match 12 Stephen Irving & Paul Whittaker (City of Newcastle/Tynemouth) V Andrew Howard & Ashley Coveney (Bishop Auckland)

Match 13 Ray Watts & Jim Derbyshire (Blyth) V Michael Rutter & Matthew Turton (City of Newcastle/Ryton)

Match 22 Chris Wright & John Walton (Bellingham) V Malcolm Crowson & Kevin Taylor (Oulton Hall)

Match 23 Peter Simpson & Barry Walker (Alnmouth/Bamburgh) V Paul McVittie & Phillip Ward (Brampton)

Match 24 Alan Walton & David McColl (Durham City) V Rebecca Webster & Richard Webster (Eaglescliffe)

Match 14 David MacSween & Graham Lister (Hartelpool) V Raymond Glendinning & George Freeman (Hobson)

Match 25 Peter Newman & Jason Green (Brancepeth) V Steve Bell & Ian Duff (Hobson)

Match 15 Stephen Mould & Ryan Mould (Crook) V Paul Watson & Peter Whitlock (Prudhoe)

Match 26 Michael Beverley & Karl Dullaghan (Warkworth) V Mark Watson & Mark Todd (Tyneside)

Match 16 Matthew Sibley & David Wainman (Eaglescliffe) V David Haswell & Stewart Allen (Knotty Hill)

Match 27 Len Eyre & Alan Scambler (Magdalene Fields) V John Jamfrey & Robert Ellison (Roseberry Grange)

Match 17 Ben King & Michael King (Bellingham) V Kevin Hill & Micheal Rowell (Arcot)

Match 28 George Longthorn & Mark Brown (Crook/ Seaton Carew) V Neil Timbey & Duncan Foster (South Moor)

MATCHES TO BE PLAYED BY SUNDAY JUNE 25

1. Entry forms, illegible or incorrect may result in the entrants being disqualified.

3. At each match, if courtesy is not given, green fees will be shared by both home and away teams.

4. All entry forms are to be directed to Northern Golfer with the entry fee.

5. The minimum age for the competition is 18, there is no maximum.

6. The maximum handicap is 25.

7. Matches to be played using 90% of the difference of the handicap taken from the lowest handicap as per COGNU rules.

8. Matches to be played off the tees of the day.

9. This competition is open to golf club members with a valid handicap.

10. Handicap certificates should be available at all matches for opponents to inspect if requested.

11. No player can enter the competition more than once.

12. Once a team has registered their home club, they cannot transfer to another club without notifying Northern Golfer and a transfer will only be accepted once a check has been made that the players have fully complied with COGNU handicapping rules.

13. The home drawn pair to offer three dates and times to their opposition.

14. No extensions will be given.

15. In the event of being unable to arrange a date, both teams will be disqualified.

16. Should a match be tied after 18 holes, the result will be decided by a sudden-death playoff commencing at the first hole with shots conceeded as they were during the first 18 holes.

17. A panel consisting of representatives from Northern Golfer will adjudicate any disputes in conjunction with the Rules Office of the R&A. Their decision will be final.

18. No correspondence will be entered into.

19. The prizes are not transferable.

20. Distance Measuring Devices permitted.

21. All players must agree to being photographed and included in Northern Golfer should the occasion arise.

22. The semi-finals and final are to be played at Middlesbrough Golf Club. The dates for these matches are Sunday October 8 (semi-finals) and Sunday October 15 (final).

23. Dates for the NE/NW PGA Pro Am has yet to be confirmed.

NORTHERN GOLFER 59

ADVERTORIAL

ROSEBERRY GRANGE GOLF CLUB

GRANGE VILLA, CHESTER-LE-STREET, CO DURHAM, DH2 3NF | TEL 0191 370 0660 E: ROSEBERRYGOLF@GMAIL.COM | WWW.ROSEBERRYGRANGE.COM

It is hard to believe that this golf course was once the site of the old West Pelton Colliery (Handenhold Pit) – indeed the bar of the clubhouse is built over the foundations of the old gasometer!

Roseberry Grange Community Golf Club welcomes golfers, visitors and societies alike. The clubhouse is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet drink, a delicious bar snack or meal and is an ideal venue for special events, weddings and celebrations. You can always rely on receiving friendly, efficient service and the very best value for money. The lounge, bar and restaurant area give a good view of the 18th green where you can relax with a comprehensive range of alcoholic or soft drinks. The clubhouse has shower/changing facilities for both male and female golfers and free wifi.

Visitors can play the course throughout the year for some of the most competitive prices in the region. Weekdays and Weekends - Adults £16 per round | Over 60’s £12.50 per round | Under 16’s £5 per round. The excellent facilities include a multipurpose chipping and putting area, a floodlit 15-bay,

240-yard driving range and a welcoming clubhouse with a great selection of food and drinks. Member competitions are held every weekend morning throughout the season. The club also has a thriving midweek seniors section.

Lessons available. Join the Get Into Golf Programme which is ideal for beginner golfers or those returning to the game with five hours of golf coaching for only £25! Equipment is provided, just book your place, come along in comfortable clothing and try something new this summer.

Choose from five weekly one-hour group coaching sessions or a full day (five-hour) group coaching session. For more information and to book your place visit www.getintogolf.org (search by postcode to find Roseberry Grange Golf Club).

Footgolf – come and try the UK’s fastest growing sport! Adults £10 per round | Concessions £8 per round | Under 16’s £7 per round. A number of packages are available for events such as corporate/ team building, children’s birthday parties, football club presentations and stag/hen parties.

Roseberry Grange Golf Club has a function room with a capacity of 120 people and can accommodate anything from birthday parties to weddings and anniversaries. The room is FREE to book!

TOTAL DISTANCE

White Tees: 6,182 yards Yellow Tees: 5,726 yards Red Tees: 5,052 yards

FEATURES

Buggies and trolleys for hire Fully stocked bar and restaurant 15-bay covered driving range (floodlit) Short game practice area Putting green Qualified professionals Fully stocked pro shop Locker rooms with changing and shower facilities Visitors and Societies always welcome

ROSEBERRY GRANGE GOLF CLUB “THE FRIENDLY GOLF CLUB”

GOLF MEMBERSHIP

GET INTO GOLF

JOIN NOW AND ENJOY UNLIMITED GOLF UNTIL 31ST MARCH 2018

LEARN TO PLAY GOLF IN A FREIDNLY ENVIRONMENT. 5X1 HOUR GROUP COACHING SESSIONS AND A FREE MONTH MEMBERSHIP FOR ONLY £25 PER PERSON.

ADULT £499 | OVER 60 £399 18 & UNDER £60 | LADIES £225

GRANGE VILLA, CHESTER LE STREET, COUNTY DURHAM DH2 3NF WWW.ROSEBERRYGRANGE.COM | TEL: 0191 370 0660 60 NORTHERN GOLFER

ADVERTORIAL

THE GOLF FACTORY GETS BIGGER AND BETTER NEW PUTTING GREEN AND CUSTOM FIT WORKSHOP IN STORE It is so easy to feel at home when you enter the Golf Factory. The friendly, family style feel is apparent the moment you step in to what is undoubtedly one of the very best stocked golf shops in the North.

With a massive array of both used equipment and new product, there is something here for every golfer, no matter their handicap.

The knowledgeable team of Ronnie, Jeff, Brian, Adam, Jamie and Gabby will be on hand to offer superb service. After some major shop alteration, there is now a fabulous dedicated putting area and a custom club building workshop with indoor swing room and simulator capabilities to ensure you get the right equipment every time.

Joining the team is well respected and highly skilled club technician Hugh.

Having your clubs correctly fitted for shaft, grip, loft and lie is now even easier.

Hugh has worked with many of the top clubs in the country and has major experience in building the perfect shaft and clubhead combination to take your game to another level and beyond!

Hitting further and straighter can be a reality with a visit to The Golf Factory.

A full repair service is available for all golf clubs plus refurbishment and regrooving services are on offer, all at competitive prices. A regripping service for clubs and putters is available while you wait.

If you’re into golf , then get into The Golf Factory. Today!

“Excellent service! Great Products!

I went to this gentleman’s house before to buy a set of Nike irons that were extremely reasonably priced, when I found he had set up his own shop I went along and walked away with new bag, set of irons and a Callaway sand wedge at bargain prices! Whether you just want to have a look, trade or buy I can recommend this guy.” M Irving

GOLF EQUIPMENT BOUGHT FOR CASH ✪ BUY ✪ SELL ✪ TRADE

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from the

bunker

Welcome to your reader feedback page. We want to hear your likes, dislikes and funny golfing stories, and if you’d like to make suggestions about Northern Golfer, let us know. We want to hear from you!

Lexi Thompson Northern Golfer’s Dean Bailey is claiming a small part in influencing The R&A and USGA following his column last month on Lexi Thompson’s four-shot penalty at the ANA Inspiration: The R&A and USGA have acted remarkably quickly following that event to publish a new Decision on the Rules of Golf to limit the use of video evidence. The new Decision 34-3/10 is effective immediately and puts in place

two standards for the rules committees to limit the use of video. The first standard limits evidence that cannot be reasonably seen by the naked eye. The second relies on reasonable judgement to determine a specific location when applying the rules.

Well done to both on acting so quickly, hopefully this and the planned revision to the rules in 2019 will go a long way to making golf simpler for us all to enjoy.

The spectacular Alnwick Garden in Northumberland looks set to receive a golfing boost with the addition of a 13-hole adventure course.

In plans submitted to the council, the visitor attraction will build the course, complete with animatronic creatures, a potting shed, hornets’ nest, mushrooms and a wooden bridge near its Poison Garden. If approved, the development is expected to create 25 full-time and 15 part-time jobs – and hopefully many more golfers in the northern part of our region.

It seems Eaglescliffe continues to be the course for holes-in-one.

Eight aces were recorded in club competitions last season and general manager Martin Ball got the ball rolling early in 2017 with a hole-in-one at the 179-yard 13th in the club’s midweek stableford competition. Martin tells us: “A fine bottle of Glenlivet was enjoyed by the members afterwards in the clubhouse”.

Congratulations Martin and good luck to the members of Eaglescliffe in surpassing last year’s total.

62 NORTHERN GOLFER

Martin Ball

Roseberry Grange celebrated its 30th birthday on May 2 with events planned at the club throughout the summer.

Built on the former High Handenhold colliery, the course was opened in 1987 by Chester-Le-Street District Council and is now run by its members having left council control six years ago.

The club has produced a number of county players and professionals – including Northern Golfer and Cocken Lodge pro Doug Brolls in its 30 years.

Congratulations to all – here’s to the next 30 years!

Gary Player came within a whisker of winning golf’s oldest professional trophy - the Leeds Cup more than 60 years ago.

Player, now 81, said: “As I came to the last hole I needed a five to win the tournament. There was a stone wall on 18 (at Huddersfield) and I thought that I could bank my shot off the wall on to the green.

“I went for it and the shot hit me in the jaw and knocked me down for a second or two. They gave me some smelling salts. Dazed, I then chipped the ball on to the green. I thought – great…four shots, I then holed the putt for five and thought I had won the tournament only to find out I’d been given a two-shot penalty for hitting myself!”

Gary said he stayed privately with a doctor at his house and had a wonderful time. He played in the tournament several times and fondly remembers his visits.

“I send my best wishes and wish the Leeds Cup much success,” he added.

You can read a report of the Leeds Cup, which takes place May 15-17, in our next issue

Gary Player aged 20 at the Leeds Cup

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