Northern Golfer magazine #65 - July 2018 by Offstone Publishing

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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 EVENTS Dean Bailey 01661 844 115 dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk ADVERTISING MANAGER Doug Brolls 07721 031 482 doug@offstonepublishing.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Gibson & Nicky Rogerson info@kgphotography.co.uk

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WELCOME&CONTENTS Who would have thought it? Having endured one of the worst winters in recent times, the golfing gods have been kind this summer with almost unbroken warm (even hot) weather and plenty of sunshine. As a result, fairways across the region have been filled with regular and new players, while the green staff have the unusual problem of coping with dry conditions while they keep our magnificent courses looking pristine. The extra run makes for low scoring and, as you will read in the forthcoming pages, we have seen some spectacular scoring, course records and rounds well below par. One man who is benefitting is our cover star Mark Ridley, who gives hope to those of you closer to the senior ranks than the juniors. Having switched from his job as a printer aged 40 he is enjoying his second career as a PGA professional both on and off the course - you can read his fascinating story in our centre pages. Last year Northern Golfer was privileged to be associated with the long-established North of England Youths Championship - one of the UK’s best amateur tournaments - and we are delighted to be supporting the event at Middlesbrough Golf Club again this year. Our special report includes a look back at some of the big names who competed in the event before they became famous, and a guide as to where you can watch potential stars of the future slug it out. It is well worth a visit August 7-9. Also worth a visit is Burgham Park, which after a troubled few years is very much back on track and in great order. Our course profile gives you plenty of tips and advice to make the most of a course which deserves to be up there with the best in our region. Hole-in-ones, charity champions, top-class events, regional trophy winners - both team and individual, we have managed to cram all this and more into this month’s issue, which you can hopefully read over a well-deserved drink in (or outside) the 19th after a good round on any course in the North East and Yorkshire. Must go and slap on some factor 20 - there is plenty of golf to play. As they say, make hay while the sun shines. Happy golfing!

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Yorkshire win again, Minnikin is county champ, Will shows the way and a Welsh win for Dixon

13-18 TEEING OFF

Team success stories, Armitage is heading to The Open and Whitburn welcomes a new pro

21 TOUR LIFE

Chris Paisley is enjoying life back in Europe

23 SCOTTISH OPEN Head north to Gullane

40 MATCHPLAY PAIRS Round two is underway

Paul Robertson, editor editor@northerngolfer.co.uk

FRONT COVER

PGA pro Mark Ridley on why a career change at 40 was the best decision he’s ever made

42 TIPS

Pages 24-27 When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

04-11 TEEING OFF

On line with John Harrison

44 COMPETITIONS

36 BURGHAM PARK COURSE PROFILE

31 NORTH OF ENGLAND YOUTHS

Win a set of hybrids from Eleven Golf plus golf at Whitburn, Consett and Newbiggin

46 BUNKER

Golfing tales from our readers NORTHERN GOLFER 03

TEEINGOFF

Storey’s new chapter

Jake Storey Jake Storey is considering a switch to the pro ranks, and a tilt at the Web.com Tour in the US, after a highly successful spell as amateur on both sides of the pond. The 22-year-old returned from college in the US to win the Northumberland 72-hole Strokeplay Championship over his home course Alnmouth with rounds of 69, 63, 69 and 71 giving him a five-shot victory over Hexham’s Sean Heads. City of Newcastle’s Alex Dixon finished in third spot three shots further back. Storey’s second round of 63 set a new course record and came an no surprise - he had faced a putt on the 18th to shoot 59 during a practice round from the back tees on the eve of the championship. Storey’s wins in the 2012 McGregor Trophy, Dutch Junior Open, Irish Boys Open and Italian Under 16 Championship marked him out as a rare talent. He graduated in May and after a brief return to the North East during which he won the county strokeplay title, he’s now back in the US working and looking for sponsorship with a view to playing in the Web.com Tour qualifying school in October. “It’s been good the last two years and I’ve enjoyed my time at college,” said Storey. “I’m going to be working for a consulting firm in the US and also looking at sponsorship opportunities to see what can be done with regard to giving Web.com Tour qualifying school a shot.” 04 NORTHERN GOLFER

The Northumberland team with captain Candy Brown

No match for Yorkshire

orkshire retained the Northern Counties Match Week title at Huddersfield Golf Club despite a final-day 5-4 loss to Cheshire that ended their hopes of a perfect five-from-five record. Yorkshire finished on eight match points alongside Cumbria Yorkshire retaining the title having won more game points over the five days as Cheshire finished in third place.

Players with national honours, England North Region squad members and those who have been part of the Futures squad coached by JJ Vallely featured in the Durham, Northumberland and Cumbria squads through the week – particularly for Northumberland, which fielded one of its youngest ever teams in the event. Northumberland finished in fourth place and were represented by Libby Bell (13), Rachel Gourley

Trimby’s senior moment Alan Trimby (pictured) became the first Seahouses golfer to win the Northumberland County Seniors Championship in a dramatic playoff at Morpeth Golf Club - beating Morpeth’s Colin Brown over the extra holes to lift the trophy. The top eight players from the

event move forward to compete for the new Northumberland County Seniors Matchplay Championship for the Mike Fleming Salver, with the semi-finals and final being held at Morpeth on Sunday July 29. Meanwhile, Close House’s Tim Price finished in a tie for 16th place at the Scottish Seniors Open.

(13), Maggie Whitehead (13), Holly Hardy (15), Jessica Baker (15), Rosie Belsham (16), Niamh Lendrum (19), Kelly McNulty (23) and Rebecca Ferguson (25). Northumberland captain Candy Brown said: “It’s great that the girls have done so well with successes at home and away in national events. Ladies golf in Northumberland is in a great position. We can’t wait to see how well the girls do in the coming months and beyond.”

TEEINGOFF

Connor back on top at Longhirst

am Connor beat Joe Dean in a playoff at Longhirst Hall Golf Club to claim his first HotelPlanner. com PGA EuroPro Tour title this season, and the fourth of his career. Connor (Alsager Golf & Country Club) carded rounds of 68, 66 and 72 to finish the week on 10 under-par, matching his final round partner Joe Dean’s effort of 71, 66, and 69. Dean had a putt on the 18th hole to win outright but lipped out from 6ft, forcing a playoff, which Connor won with a superb 12ft putt. The win was Connor’s second at Longhirst, the first coming in 2015 - which was his first PGA EuroPro Tour title. Three years on he has four wins to his name. He said: “There is no better feeling than winning; this is what we do it for. “I enjoyed the battle out there with Joe. I knew I wasn’t playing my A game but I feel I’ve got a

Up to scratch

Sam Connor lot of heart and I dug in when it mattered. “I love this game and coming to Longhirst, and I love that battle I had out there.” Meanwhile, Moortown Golf Club’s Nick McCarthy finished in a tie for seventh place as Rockliffe Hall’s James Maw finished in a tie for 10th place

alongside Whickham Golf Club’s James Simpson. A number of the region’s leading amateurs were also in the field, including Phil Ridden, James Wilson and Sean Heads - though all three missed the cut. Highlights of the Dawson and Sanderson Classic will air on Sky Sports Golf on July 17.

Andrew Wilson picked up his first victory of the season in the Durham County Order of Merit at the Boldon Scratch. The England international and GB&I squad member from Darlington (pictured) was in blistering form over the Dipe Lane course with rounds of 69 and 66 to win by three shots from Durham teammates Gavin Nesbit and Martin McCririck. Wilson also shot a blistering course record 63 in the Brabazon Trophy at Frilford Heath to finish in a tie for sixth place and further his Walker Cup ambitions.

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TEEINGOFF

Mini’s the driving force

City slickers The team from City of Newcastle Golf Club is aiming to make it back to the European Men’s Club Trophy in France after retaining the Northumberland First Division Teams Championship at Arcot Hall. Last year Alex Dixon, Mark Wharton and Phil Ridden (pictured) won the bronze medal at the European event having won the England Champion Club tournament at Huddersfield. The Division Two title went to Slaley Hall, promoted along with Arcot, Matfen Hall and Stocksfield.

ndy Minnikin has continued his great form over the last few years at county level with victory in the Northumberland County Championship at Blyth Golf Club. Minnikin, who won his first county championship back in 2013 and has missed the event in the last four years due to a clash with the English Mid Amateur, came through the 36-hole qualifying in sixth place before the four rounds of matchplay. “I’ve been in a great run of form in the county events these last few years and I’m really proud to win the county championship again. As an amateur golfer, there’s very few prizes bigger than your county championship,” said Minnikin. He met Craig Taylor in the first matchplay round before beating county teammates Sean Heads (3&2), Andrew Gibson (19th hole) and Craig Penny (6&4) in the 36-hole final.

Andy Minnikin

“It’s a long week with a lot of golf. I qualified pretty well at one underpar and then had a really mixed week of matches with some very good golf and some very scrappy golf – particularly against Sean in the quarter-final. “In the final, I got my nose in front early on going 2up through three holes and then getting to 4up through the first 18. From there, I got another fast start in the second round going 7up through 23 holes but Craig fought back really well to pull it back. From there I managed to birdie the 12th and par 13 and 14 to close it out. There was a lot of really good golf between us in both rounds of the final and I’m really proud to have come through it and got the trophy in my hands again.” Andy’s secured his ninth county title at Blyth and his seventh in five years. He heads to the English Mid Amateur at Long Ashton Golf Club this month hoping to better his second place finish in 2015.

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TEEINGOFF

Will shows the way

ill Skipp’s impressive record in the Durham County Boys Championship continued at his home club Eaglescliffe. Skipp, 16, posted rounds of 71 and 73 to beat Houghton’s Ryan LewisMackie and club colleague Will Alexander by four shots - adding the under-18s trophy to his two wins in the under-16s event and one win in the under-14 tournament. Skipp delivered the win while studying for his GCSEs at Hartlepool’s Dyke House College. He said: “It feels amazing as it’s the first event I’ve gone into where I didn’t see myself as favourite as I wasn’t playing very well and I’ve had a lot of exams. Both rounds went really well. I just tried to play within myself and didn’t attack anything too much because that’s when things have gone wrong. “Now I just want to get my exams out of the way and concentrate on

Will Skipp golf over the summer to prepare for national events, and hopefully have a few good finishes to push towards getting a national call up.” In the under-16 tournament, Ramside’s Adam Charlton shot a round of 70 beat George

Washington’s Duran Gun by three shots and lift the trophy. Meanwhile Heworth’s Ben Willis claimed the under-14 crown, his 78 two better than Harry Etherington of Ramside and Nicky Lee Shield of Barnard Castle.

Talented teenager Rosie Belsham, from Whitley Bay Golf Club, will represent England in The R&A’s Junior Open on the Eden Course at St Andrews later this month. The 54-hole championship features leading golfers under the age of 16 from around the world. Past winners include Masters champion Patrick Reed.

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TEEINGOFF

Feeling greight!

l-r Paul Hillaby, Pat Howdle, Neil Spratt and Rob Goodman Four firefighters played a staggering eight rounds of golf at Aldwark Manor in a single day to help raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. Rob Goodman, 46, Paul Hillaby, 47, Neil Spratt, 45, and Pat Howdle, 55, who are all based in the Yorkshire region, took part in the charity’s Longest Day Golf Challenge in which golfers across the country attempt to play four rounds before the daylight gives out. Despite a walk of more than 32 miles, they finished eight rounds of golf in just 15 hours and 16 minutes. So far, the fore-fighters team has raised around £2,000.

Beefy challenge

Beefy and Beef with the Rockliffe teams Cricket legend Ian Botham and European Tour star Andrew Johnston teamed up for a highflying charity golf challenge. Teeing off at 5.15am at Darlington’s Rockliffe Hall they completed 18 holes at 18 different courses in 18 firstclass cricketing counties in just one day. Two teams of three golfers joined Beefy and Beef at each course to raise money for Beefy’s Charity Foundation. 08 NORTHERN GOLFER

Steve Cram and friends line up at Slaley Hall to raise funds for COCO

Sun shines on COCO

ports stars teamed up with the North East business community to raise thousands of pounds for international children’s charity COCO alongside Steve Cram at Slaley Hall. Now in its 15th year, the annual Steve Cram Celebrity Golf Day raised more than £20,000 for COCO – a Newcastle-based international children’s charity that was cofounded by world champion athlete and BBC commentator Cram and

former British Army Major Jim Panton in 2000. Stars from the worlds of football, rugby, athletics, boxing, and TV and radio joined Cram for the event, including Glen McCrory, Kriss Akabusi, Steve Harper, John Carver, John Regis, Steve Watson, Don Goodman, Ally Hogg, referee Michael Oliver and broadcasters Ian Payne and Manish Bhasin. Cram said: “It was a fantastic day and we really were blessed with great weather this year. Once

again, Slaley Hall has proved to be a brilliant venue. Everyone seems to have enjoyed themselves, but most importantly, we’re raising funds for a great cause. COCO will be able to make a big difference with the money raised today, improving access to vital education for young people in East Africa. I’m really grateful to my good friends from the sporting world who always support this event so well, and to the many generous North East businesses who contribute so much.”

tournament, at Linden Hall on September 15. Teams are priced at £78 for two players and the winners will earn a threenight holiday for two people to

Macdonald Dona Lola, Spain. For more information, and to enter, contact Craig Chalmers on Twitter @scoringclub or by email info@thescoringclub.uk

Scoring for a good cause The Scoring Club hosted its first charity golf day in aid of The Alan Shearer Foundation at Gosforth Golf Club, raising £4,760.50. Organised by The Scoring Club - a new organisation offering tournaments, golf days and content for golfers - the event saw more than 70 players take part. The Scoring Club will host its second event, a pairs betterball

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TEEINGOFF

Ryan Dixon

Welsh success for Dixon

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10 NORTHERN GOLFER

in America. I was watching people beat themselves up out there all day and I knew I just had to stay patient. I didn’t have that control before I went to America so I am really enjoying having that advantage. “I just stuck to my game plan and nothing fazed me. I played pretty solid all four days.” Dixon is hoping the victory could move him higher up the pecking order in England. “I have been part of the North of England coaching squad but I haven’t really been involved in the England setup,” he added. “Hopefully that can come if I build on this win. I take a lot of confidence from it and will take that into the next tournament, it is a big boost going forward.”

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yan Dixon enjoyed the biggest win of his burgeoning career with victory in the Welsh Youths at Wenvoe Castle. The 19-year-old from Castle Eden Golf Club finished three shots clear of Letchworth’s Jack Slater to notch his first national title on his return from college in the US. “I’m pretty happy,” said Dixon. “This is a big achievement for me. It was the first event I played in since coming back from St Mary’s University, St Antonio in Texas where I have just finished my first year. “It’s the first time I have won a national tournament so it is up there. I have learned so much about myself and managing my emotions

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Smith’s masterclass Tom Smith is becoming something of a serial winner in the North East, but he has no plans to test his ability to top the leaderboard as a professional. The 26-year-old from Eaglescliffe claimed the Northern Masters trophy with an excellent display of patience and grit to shoot rounds of 71 and 70 over the testing Rockliffe Hall course winning by one shot from Consett

Golf Club’s Jeff Pitt. Smith won the NYSD Championship for the third time in a row last year and also claimed the Bishop Auckland Bowl - his first scratch open triumph. He has also partnered Sam Donald to the Northumberland and Durham Inter County Foursomes title, and is aiming to add the Durham County Championship to his growing list of achievements.

TEEINGOFF

Stefan’s king of Castle

tefan Labuschagne held off a double-pronged home attack to win the North Yorkshire and South Durham Championship at Middlesbrough Golf Club. Pretoria-born Labuschagne, who holds a British passport, has recently played his way into the Durham squad - although he had to wait a year to qualify to play for the county. A student at Durham University, he is a graduate of Tyler College and Concord University in the US, is a former West Virginia IAC Golfer of the Year and has played on the China Tour. A member of Bishop Auckland Golf Club, Labuschagne has been close to winning a number of times in the North East but he hit top form to take the NYSD title with rounds of 67 and 68. He was chased all the way by Middlesbrough pair Elliott Butterworth (68-68) and James Swash (67-70).

Spain pain

Teesside Union president Ian Graham presents Stefan Labuschagne with the NYSD Trophy Recent Northern Masters winner Tom Smith, who won the NYSD Championship for the third time in a row last year and also claimed the

Bishop Auckland Bowl as his first scratch open triumph, missed out on an historic fourth title after an opening round of 73.

Andy Scrimshaw was disappointed with his final round performance in Spain having been in a great position to win on the Alps Tour. The Close House-attached pro posted rounds of 68 and 69 to lead going into the final round at La Monacilla Golf Club in Aljaraque, but he closed with a three-over par round of 75 and had settle for seventh place. “I’m slightly disappointed after holding the lead going into the final round,” said Scrimshaw. “But it’s all valuable experience.”

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TEEINGOFF

Trio take top spot

l-r Alex Bore, Ryan Ford and Phillip Wake

John Harrison

The professionals

he region’s top pros have been out in force across the North East and North West with pro ams taking place around the region. At the Maryport GC Pro Am, Northern Golfer tips pro John Harrison (Matfen Hall) returned to the winners’ circle with a round of 69 earning him a tie for first place with Simon Calvert (Darlington). John’s form continued at Ramside, where he finished in second place - three shots behind Ryan Ingram

(George Washington), who shot a superb eight under-par round of 64. Three pros tied for the top prize in the Hadrian Healthcare Pro Am at Whickham Golf Club - Matthew Webb (Bedlingtonshire) shot 66 as did Simon Robinson (Sharpley) and David Clark (Morpeth). Andrew Scrimshaw (Close House) was two shots back with his round of 68. Liam Sullivan (Saltburn) topped the leaderboard at the Middlesbrough GC Pro Am with a round of 66 to claim his first win as a professional.

Meanwhile Darren Crowle (Crook) and Vince Guest (Teesside) shared second place with rounds of 67. Craig Goodfellow (Carlisle Golf Centre) made the long trip from Cumbria worth it when he picked up the winner’s cheque at Teesside. Meanwhile, Mark Ridley (South Moor) picked up the NE/NW PGA Championship title at Brancepeth, which you can read more about on pages 24-27. Hexham’s Jonathan Richardson was the leading PGA Assistant in the event.

Seaham triumph Seaham edged out host club Consett by a single shot in the North Durham League’s Teams Championship. Seaham shot a team total of 286 to lift the trophy with Consett just one behind as Heworth tied for third place on 293 alongside Crook. Crook’s Craig Elliott shot a five

under-par 66 to win the individual gross and nett trophies playing off a handicap of four. It was also a good day for Garesfield’s John King, who scored a hole-in-one with a seven iron on the 152-yard sixth hole. Each club was represented by a team of five, with the best four gross scores counting.

Seaham’s winning team

Darlington showed real tenacity to pick up their second Durham County Clubs Teams Handicap Championship title. The Haughton Grange club first won the championship 10 years ago and victory this time around came against the odds as they were only able to field a three-man team instead of the usual four at the Hobson course. They finished two clear of Houghton as Ryton took third on count back from South Moor. Ford’s 66 almost made it a double for the Darlington club but the seven-handicapper was just edged out for the individual prize by Billingham’s Jonathan Clayton, who shot a round of 65.

Cumbria’s champion Carus Green Golf Club’s Harriet Barker won the 2018 Cumbria County Ladies Championship at Appleby Golf Club. Junior captain of her home club, three-handicapper Harriet (pictured) described her win as “absolutely thrilling” and she will be heading to England Golf’s Champion of Champions event to represent Cumbria on September 9 at Frilford Heath Golf Club in Oxfordshire. NORTHERN GOLFER 13

TEEINGOFF

Thrill for Stills and Gill

Eaglescliffe’s winning team Eaglescliffe Golf Club’s win in the Durham County qualifier for the England Golf Club Mixed Team Championship was a family affair. Three members of the team were from the Still family - John, Lesley and son Ian. They were joined by Su Gill to score 85 points at Brancepeth Castle and win by two points from Whickham and Bishop Auckland in the tournament, which was sponsored by Cottages.com. Both John and Lesley have represented Durham during their golfing careers, while John is a former Durham County Matchplay champion, Durham County Seniors champion and captain of the county side “We are certainly looking forward to representing our club and county in the National Finals,” said Lesley.

Blackwell’s fundraiser Blackwell Grange Golf Club is hosting a charity open on Friday July 27 in aid of Prostate Cancer UK and Alzheimer's Society. Open to teams of four (any gender mix), the fourball betterball stableford event costs £90 per team, including bacon sandwich and coffee on arrival, and a one-course meal after play. Thanks to Evans Halshaw there is chance to win a car for a hole-in-one at the ninth hole. For further details and to enter go to www.blackwellgrangegolf.com 14 NORTHERN GOLFER

Marcus Armitage

Road to The Open

he region’s best amateurs and a host of professionals set out in Regional Qualifying and Final Qualifying for The Open Championship at Carnoustie with a handful coming close to making it into the season’s third major. Marcus Armitage will fly the flag for our region at Carnoustie having posted a 36-hole total of 10 underpar at St Annes Old Links to book his place in The Open.

Garrick Porteous came close to qualifying, ultimately finishing in a tie for fifth place at The Renaissance Club. There were also good results from David Hague (Malton & Norton) and Alex Fitzpatrick (Hallamshire) who finished in a tie for sixth place at Notts (Hollinwell), and Nick McCarthy (Moortown) who finished in a tie for eighth place at St Annes Old Links. In Regional Qualifying at Goswick in Northumberland,

Shacklady crowned senior masters champion David Shacklady (pictured) won the Leeds Golf Centre Senior Masters after shooting an impressive eight under-par over two rounds. His form was there to see in Wednesday’s pro am, where he shot a round of 62. He brought that

from into the main event to shoot eight under-par in tough conditions, beating Brendon McGovern by one shot as Paul Streeter (6871) finished third and Andrew Sherborne (71-69) finished in fourth place.

Workington-based amateur William Bowe topped the leaderboard with a superb four under-par 68. Meanwhile Hartelpool youngster Jack Ainscough and Bedlingtonshire pro Matthew Webb progressed through a five-man playoff for fours spots having shot rounds of 71. In Regional Qualifying at Alwoodley in Yorkshire, Darlington’s Andrew Wilson progressed to Final Qualifying before missing out on a spot in The Open.

BEAMISH HALL

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TEEINGOFF

Whitburn’s new pro

teven McDonnell has been appointed head professional at Whitburn Golf Club. McDonnell takes over from Greg Jobling, who has moved to Sunderland Golf Centre. The Whitburn role is McDonnell’s first permanent club appointment, although he’s vastly experienced having spent time teaching and coaching in the south as well as at Ravensworth, Boldon, Oakleaf, Sharpley, Close House and Sunderland Golf Centre. Having graduated from Birmingham University in PGA professional golf studies, McDonnell has been involved in golf development, coaching and project management, and has developed strong links with England Golf and the Golf Foundation.

THE GREAT ESCAPE

Last year he carried out a Golf in Schools project in the North East and he’s working on a long-term plan to build up junior and women’s golf at Whitburn, as well as the possibility of securing funding to improve the club’s practice and coaching facilities with a covered range area and academy. “When I came back to the North East I saw there was a massive gap in the membership up here. We have to encourage juniors and ladies through coaching and the Get into Golf initiative,” he said. McDonnell has already started coaching sessions for youngsters at Whitburn every Saturday at 10am and the number of youngsters taking part is growing weekly. For more information contact Steven on 07540 730 022 or in the pro shop at Whitburn.

Steven McDonnell

Make the most of the lighter evenings with Twilight Golf at Rockliffe Hall. Rockliffe Hall’s championship course is one of the most challenging in Europe. While its full 7,879 yards from the back tees will give even the best professional tour golfer a stern test, most will find the five individual tee boxes on each hole a welcome addition, offering players of all abilities the chance to experience this magnificent course.

£35 per person - available daily from 3pm, until October 2018.

To book please call the Pro Shop on 01325 7299980 or email enquiries@rockliﬀehall.com

www.rockliffehall.com Hurworth-on-Tees Darlington County Durham DL2 2DU +44 (0)1325 729999 enquiries@rockliffehall.com

16 NORTHERN GOLFER

GEORGE WASHINGTON GOLF CLUB

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For all Great Membership packages designed for the 21st century Golfer call: Bill Michie on 0191 417 8346, e-mail: gsd@georgewashington.co.uk for more details Come along and join us at one of the most improved Courses in the County.

TEEINGOFF Seaham Golf Club has officially opened its new Skytrak swing studio. The facility includes the chance to play courses from around the world while offering feedback during coaching and custom fitting with PGA professional Andrew Blunt. It was part-funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development.

In the Nick of time

ick Poppleton’s sensational Brabazon Trophy win propelled him into the Great Britain and Ireland reckoning for the St Andrews Trophy match against the Continent of Europe. The 24-year-old Wath golfer joined fellow Yorkies David Hague and Alex Fitzpatrick alongside Darlington’s Andrew Wilson in the squad thanks to his victory in the Brabazon Trophy at Frilford Heath, where Wilson smashed the course record. Poppleton won in dramatic style when he chipped in on the second playoff hole to beat South Africa’s Wilco Nienaber, who had tied with him on 16 under-par. The win was Poppleton’s first international title and he said: “It means a lot, this is the pinnacle of strokeplay for England Golf and a lot of fantastic players have won this.” Durham’s Wilson set a new course record of nine under-par (63)

Nick Poppleton with the Brabazon Trophy in the third round, which propelled him into contention. He finished in a tie for sixth place while in the final round Bailey Gill (Lindrick) shot 67 to tie for third place.

Wilson said: “I was in the middle of the fairway with 100 yards left on the last four holes but couldn’t get a birdie. I was a bit disappointed not to get to 10 under-par.”

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Contact Email: secretary@rytongolfclub.co.uk • Phone: 0191 4133253 Website: www.rytongolfclub.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/RytonGolfClub

BURGHAM, Nr FELTON, NORTHUMBERLAND NE65 9QP E : burghamparkgolfclub@gmail.com W : wwwburghampark.co.uk T : 01670 787898 (OPTION 1)

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Pro-rata membership offers available from 1st July – 31st March 2019 Twilight golf midweek from 3pm - £15.00 per person Visiting parties welcome – min 12 players from £20.00 per person, 7 days a week

TOURLIFE

Chris Paisley

Trousers, Cut-Offs, Bermuda Shorts for Lady Golfers in sizes 8 - 20 from

TOUR LIFE YEARS 25

•

Since my last column, I’ve played in the Italian Open, had two weeks off, and then played the BMW International in Germany followed by The French Open. The results haven’t been particularly good in those three events, but I am very encouraged with my game the past few weeks. In Italy my game wasn’t great to be honest. I felt as though my body was in poor shape in terms of flexibility and movement. I just felt like I was unable to swing it how I wanted. Fortunately, I had booked some time with my trainer, Kenny, and physio Karen in my two-week break. My back especially had really stiffened up. Kenny and Karen always amaze me. They can pretty much tell how I’m swinging the club just by looking at my body. I tell them what shots I’ve been hitting and how it feels and they can tell me exactly why and how to fix it. I’m lucky to have the two of them on my team. After a painful massage and correction session my body was as good as new! Feeling fresh after two weeks off, I headed to Germany for the BMW. My game didn’t feel particularly good but my short game and putting were incredible and I found myself in a tie for the lead after three rounds. Unfortunately, the putts dried up on the last day and I dropped all the way down to 26th. Normally that would have felt like a decent week, but not in this case. The encouraging part was that I was leading a European Tour event after three days playing with my C game. That’s something I have never done before. I then headed to France feeling really optimistic. I still have no idea how I missed that cut! My game felt really good but I hit a couple of poor drives and made some bad decisions - something you can’t afford to do on that course, it really is brutal. It will be much nicer to play matchplay around there and it will make for an amazing Ryder Cup venue! Up next are the Irish Open and Scottish Open. I love links golf so it’s a great chance for me to start knocking in some good results again.

•

BACK ON TOUR

ST Y L

www.getsmarttwo.co.uk Tel: 01670 789079 F Get Smart Two L @GetSmartTwo I @GetSmartTwo Milkhope Centre, Blagdon, Nr Seaton Burn, NE13 6DA

NORTHERN

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST NEWS AND VIEWS FROM GOLF IN THE NORTH EAST AND YORKSHIRE AT WWW.NORTHERNGOLFER.CO.UK @negolfer

/northerngolferuk

@northerngolferuk NORTHERN GOLFER 21

CHESTER-LE-STREET GOLF CLUB

MEMBERSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE Pro rata memberships available to the end of the year. Join a club which is investing in its future.

JUNIOR COACHING SATURDAY MORNINGS FROM 11AM TO 12 NOON AGES 5 TO 18 – ALL WELCOME CALL 01913882333

OPENS 2018

SENIORS – Tuesday 31st July 4 PLAYER TEAM CHALLENGE – 18th August • LADIES AM-AM – Wednesday 22nd August

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

GOLFERNEWS

Romance at Carus

Head north to see the best The Scottish Open returns to Gullane July 12-15

or those in the North East, this year’s Scottish Open will be the closest European Tour event to home and those travelling north to Gullane for the Aberdeen Standard Investments Scottish Open are in for a treat with five-time major winner Phil Mickelson joining Masters champion Patrick Reed; Rickie Fowler (pictured above), who won the last time the event was played at Gullane in 2015; plus world number three Justin Rose; world number 10

Tommy Fleetwood and defending champion Rafa Cabrerra Bello (pictured below). A composite course of No.1 and No.2 at Gullane will host the event with players tackling the deep pot bunkers and one of the finest sets of greens on the Firth of Forth coastline before they head to Carnoustie for the 145th Open Championship. Golf at Gullane dates back to 1884 and the ancient links remains a stunning example of Scotland’s natural golfing landscape. Players and spectators have stunning views across to Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth and Fife while battling the 124 bunkers which defend the course along with the wind blowing across the firth. The Hero Challenge, the par three contest held before selected tournaments such as last year’s British Masters, is back too – at Edinburgh Castle. The 12th Century castle will host the challenge with Rafa Cabrera Bello, Andrew Johnston and Shubhankar Sharma lined up. Meanwhile, the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation and Leuchie House will join the European Tour Foundation as Official Charity Partners of the Aberdeen Standard Investments Scottish Open. The two charities will benefit from a host of charitable activities during the tournament week at Gullane Golf Club, including the return of the popular Tartan Wednesday, when fans are encouraged to join players and celebrities in getting kitted out in tartan on pro am day.

Carus Green Golf Club hosted the William Hunt Trilby Tour’s Regional Championship of Cumbria and welcomed crowds of spectators for a second year as 141 players set out to win a place in the International Grand Final in August. It wasn’t just the golf that had the crowds talking this year. Bob Whiteley chose the first tee to propose to now-fiancée Allyson Shepherd. Staying at Carus Green with Allyson for the week, Bob decided it was the perfect opportunity to pop the question. The Trilby Tour International Grand Final will take place at Hull Golf Club on August 30.

Spring weather Houghton-le-Spring is leading the way in all-weather greens following a successful funding application to Sport England. Although the 18-hole parkland golf course was founded over a century ago in 1908, the management team remains committed to improvements and attracting new members, particularly juniors. The club used their successful application for funding to work with Huxley Golf to design five all-weather greens for autumn and winter play. NORTHERN GOLFER 23

MARKRIDLEY

Ridley makes his Mark Dean Bailey talks to NE/NW PGA champion Mark Ridley to learn about his journey into professional golf and what lies ahead as he prepares for his first Staysure Tour event

here are many routes into professional golf. Some players come through the amateur ranks, play college golf in the US and set out on mini tours with the dream of making it to the European Tour. Others leave school, maybe play for the county and then train with the PGA and become club pros. Few spend 20 years in a print factory before signing up to the PGA’s four-year course. That unconventional route was the one chosen by Mark Ridley, who at the age of 40 started out on his PGA training having joined his friend Shaun Cowell, who he grew up with playing golf at Beamish Park, at Custom Fit Golf at South Moor Golf Club. Jump forward to 2018 and Mark now holds one of the North East’s oldest golf titles, the Northumberland and Durham Open, and the NE/NW PGA’s Championship, which he won at Brancepeth Castle Golf Club. Ridley also came within a shot of winning the Silversea Senior PGA Championship at Foxhills. He lost in a playoff to Lindrick’s John King, though the result booked his place in the Staysure PGA Seniors Championship at The London Golf Club alongside the likes of Colin Montgomerie and Paul McGinley later this year. “I couldn’t have asked for a better start to the season,” says Ridley.

24 NORTHERN GOLFER

“I’ve played some really good golf since the start of the year with a good result out in Abu Dhabi and a second place finish in the NE/NW PGA event in Spain before we even got underway locally.” From those events, Ridley’s form continued as the PGA calendar got underway with events around the North East and Cumbria. “It was great to win the Northumberland and Durham Open at City of Newcastle. It’s one of our biggest events and you want to play well, particularly with some of the region’s best amateurs competing alongside us. I had to fly the flag for the pros with so many of them playing really well on the day. “At the PGA Championship I kept the score ticking over all day and just got through a really tough day with the heat and a challenging setup at Brancepeth. “The key so far this year has been keep everything tight and staying in contention through every round. Apart from that, it’s been very tidy golf most of the way. I’m really pleased with the way I’m playing, I hope I can carry it on for the rest of the year.” Ridley’s no stranger to winning – he’s a former Durham County Champion and held a handicap of plus-two before turning pro. He also counts himself lucky to be playing the game having found out his heart was in an irregular rhythm late last year. “We had a test day at the golf club, they hooked me up and found my pulse was all over the place.

MARKRIDLEY

NORTHERN GOLFER 25

MARKRIDLEY

“After a few more tests I ended up in surgery having my heart shocked back into rhythm. That was pretty scary but it was two days before I went to Abu Dhabi, and since then I’ve felt great and my golf has been excellent.” Back on the golf course, Ridley’s got a lot more golf to look forward to this summer. A trip to qualifying for the Senior Open Championship at St Andrews will be followed by his visit to The London Golf Club and a first appearance on the Staysure Tour. “Qualifying for The London Golf Club, having been eligible for just a couple of years, is fantastic. I’m really looking forward to going down there – it should be an interesting spell, particularly if I make it to St Andrews in the middle of it all. It will feel like I’ve hit the big time if I can play well in all of those.“ Ridley’s career as a pro has been filled with success so far. He’s claimed 29 professional wins to-date and combines his playing career with work at South Moor. “We’ve got an excellent local PGA scene in the North East/North West PGA with some very good pro ams and some supremely talented golfers turning up week-in week-out. I’ve got to 26 NORTHERN GOLFER

Mark Ridley tees off at South Moor

balance golf with working five days a week in the shop with Shaun, which is tough, but it all falls into place and I can’t think of anything I’d rather be doing. “Some guys who’ve only ever played golf sometimes lose their understanding of how lucky we are to play tournaments and make a living from golf. I like to think I’ve got a great understanding of it having been on the other side for so long. It really puts what we’re doing into perspective and there’s not a day where I think I’d rather be back in my old job.” The choice to leave the printing job was an easy one, and Ridley has never looked back. “It was an easy decision when Shaun mentioned he was looking for somebody to come and work in the shop and train as an assistant professional. “It was hard work getting the books out after 25 years and doing the studying for the PGA degree programme but my wife Michelle was a great help. I was definitely one of the oldest graduates in my year. I played in the Assistants Championship with a lot of very young lads, some of which were young enough to be my sons!

“I was very happy and proud to be a county player and a good amateur. The route to becoming a pro wasn’t obvious back then, there were very few players on scholarships in America and there weren’t the opportunities to play mini tours. “I’d never thought about turning pro or training with the PGA before Shaun mentioned it. It’s definitely been the right decision and I’m really happy to be lucky enough to be out here playing golf.” In the long term, Ridley hasn’t got a concrete plan other than playing locally and heading to a handful of national PGA events. “I’ve thought about going to qualifying school for the Staysure Tour but I haven’t had a run at it yet. I’m not writing it off in the future. Who knows, if I have a good couple of weeks in the PGA event and qualify for Senior Open I may be out there a lot more.” There’s a lot more golf in Ridley’s calendar this summer and who knows, we may see him walking over the Swilken Bridge on the 18th at St Andrews any day now. Not too bad for an ex-printer from Lanchester who turned his hobby into a career.

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NORTHERN GOLFER 29

ADVERTORIAL

EXCITING TIMES AHEAD AT WHITBURN Whitburn Golf Club is very much on the up. Hot on the heels of a string of clubhouse and course improvements, the club has recently appointed Steven McDonnell as its new head professional. In the clubhouse, improvements have included a new downstairs lounge, new shower and toilet facilities attached to the men’s locker room, car park improvements and an upgrade of the heating system. The club is also home to renowned catering from Karen and her team, meaning visitors are

assured an excellent day on and off the golf course. The golf course has also benefitted. New drainage, bunker work, tree-planting and husbandry have improved the appearance of the course, augmented by new machinery including a green iron, which has restored the quality of putting surfaces to their former glory. McDonnell is aiming to build up Whitburn’s junior and women’s sections while improving the club’s practice and coaching facilities, possibly with a covered area and academy as part of long-term plan.

WHITBURN GOLF CLUB Come and join us at the jewel on the coast and enjoy the panoramic vista of the North East coastline. • Special Deals for Ladies and Juniors – Call for details • Junior Academy and Get into Golf sessions available Whitburn Golf Club now • Visiting Parties welcome. Catering available and renown

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EMAIL: wgcsec@hotmail.com

30 NORTHERN GOLFER

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NORTHOFENGLANDYOUTHS

Best Youth golfers head for Boro Middlesbrough Golf Club hosts the 44th North of England Open Amateur Youth Golf Championship in association with Northern Golfer, August 7-9

he best young players from around the UK will be heading back to the North East in August for the 44th North of England Open Amateur Youth Golf Championship at Middlesbrough Golf Club – an event which has played an important part in the careers of major champions and European Tour winners. The event, which is open to players under the age of 23, awards World Amateur Golf Ranking points and has welcomed a number of the UK’s finest players in its history. A total of 136 players will tee off on Tuesday and Wednesday before a 36-hole cut reduces the field to 40 players and ties for the final two rounds on Thursday. The leading player will be awarded the MacGill Challenge Trophy, while the leading player under the age of 18 will earn the Fairweather Salver. Some of British golf ’s biggest names have

competed in the event in the last 42 years, including three Masters champions – Danny Willett, Sandy Lyle (the third winner of the tournament) and Ian Woosnam. Ryder Cup legend and eight-time European Tour Order of Merit winner Colin Montgomerie went home empty handed from Middlesbrough, as did European Tour winners Ken Ferrie and Graeme Storm, while two-time senior major winner Roger Chapman (1979), David Horsey (2006) and Richard Finch (1998) are all present on the MacGill Challenge Trophy. Richard Boxall, winner of the event in 1982 – when his hunt to break the 72-hole scoring record of 255 was halted by bad weather, said: “I have good memories of playing in the tournament, and of Middlesbrough and its members who were wonderful hosts, especially David Hunter with whom I stayed. “I did have a chance of setting a world record

and I reckon I would have done it. It was a shame about the fog, but I did win the tournament, which meant a lot to me - as did setting a course record each round. “Hopefully the players taking part this year will enjoy it as much as I did and I wish the club all success and long may it continue.” In 2017, Chelmsford’s Arron Edwards-Hill travelled north to battle the weather and claim the MacGill Challenge Trophy with two rounds of 66 on the final day for a two shot victory over Sam Broadhurst, son of European Tour legend Paul. Arron said: “It was a tough few days but I’m proud to have come through it and get the win. It was well worth the trip and I really enjoyed playing the course and being part of a great event.” Ahead of the event, we’ve taken a look at where the action will take place over the three days and met with the men tasked with delivering one of our region’s biggest amateur events.

MEMBERSHIP VACANCIES ALSO...

MIDDLESBROUGH GOLF CLUB • BRASS CASTLE LANE Telephone 01642 311766 | www.middlesbroughgolfclub.co.uk

GET INTO GOLF PROGRAMME FOR BEGINNERS NORTHERN GOLFER 31

NORTHOFENGLANDYOUTHS

Where to watch the action unfold over the stunning James Braiddesigned Middlesbrough Golf Club at Brass Castle

WHERE TO WATCH – NO.8 Stand behind the green at the par three seventh where you can then follow players up onto the eighth tee, the signature hole at Middlesbrough measuring more than 400 yards.

WHERE TO WATCH – THE HALFWAY HOUSE A great place to catch up with a group or to get a feel for the action, the halfway hut near the green at the risk and reward par four 10th gives you a chance to watch players take on the green at the short par four. You can also walk the 20 yards to the 11th tee and watch the players tee off at the par five.

WHERE TO WATCH – NO.16 Stand behind the 16th tee and you can watch the players approaching the 15th, the toughest hole on the course, before they play the par three 16th.

MIDDLESBROUGH GOLF CLUB • BRASS CASTLE LANE Telephone 01642 311766 | www.middlesbroughgolfclub.co.uk

32 NORTHERN GOLFER

WHERE TO WATCH – THE TOURNAMENT DECIDER Having tackled the tricky par four 17th, players will head to the tee of the par four 18th. Pick a spot on the clubhouse terrace and watch the action and you can also keep an eye on the scoreboard.

Club Pro, Gordon Cattrell has recently introduced Trackman Golf to the Club. Trackman is the industry leading Launch Monitor used by the Worlds top Players and is located in the Club’s new purpose built Fitting Studio. To book your Lesson or Fitting call 01642 311766. Quote NEGolfer for 10% discount on your 1st session.

NORTHOFENGLANDYOUTHS

NORTH OF ENGLAND OPEN AMATEUR YOUTH GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS

TIMINGS Tuesday August 8 – tee times from 7.30am-3.30pm Wednesday August 9 – tee times from 7.30am-3.30pm Thursday August 10 – third round tee times from 8am, fourth round tee times from 3pm, presentation from 7pm *Free entry for spectators. All times approx.

YEAR NAME CLUB 1975 A Jackson Burnham Beeches 1976 N M Chesses Shirley 1977 A W B Lyle Hawkstone Park 1978 J Cuddihy Ratho Park 1979 R Chapman Langley Park 1980 J G Bennett Walton Heath 1981 J Heib Sutton Bridge 1982 R Boxall Camberley Heath 1983 M Stokes Maylands 1984 W A Farrow Stoke Poges 1985 F George Beaconsfield 1986 J G C Robinson Woodhall Spa 1987 J Cook Leamington County 1988 C Cassells Murcar 1989 S J Bannerman Cruden Bay 1990 R Walker Brancepeth 1991 S M Green Ashford 1992 R Walker Wearside 1993 S Taylor Hillside 1994 J N Hepworth llkley 1995 G Jenkins Kenilworth 1996 O Cousins St Neot’s 1997 M S King Toft Hotel 1998 R Finch Hull 1999 S J Young Seascale 2000 J W Lupton Middlesbrough 2001 P Wheatcroft Worksop 2002 P Richardson Eden 2003 J Mason Fulford 2004 G Jackson Garforth 2005 S Uzzell Hornsea 2006 D Horsey Styal 2007 D Whitnell Five Lakes 2008 D Whitnell Five Lakes 2009 B Loughrey Wrag Barn 2010 I Winstanley Formby 2011 J Bower Meltham 2012 J Bower Meltham 2013 A Wilson Darlington 2014 W Whiteoak Shipley 2015 J Hilleard Farrington Park 2016 H Hussain Kendleshire 2017 Arron Edwards-Hill Chelmsford

OPENS

JUNIOR OPEN - FRIDAY 27TH JULY MIXED 4BBB STABLEFORD - SUNDAY 29TH JULY GENTS 4BBB STABLEFORD MIDDLESBROUGH GOLF CLUB • BRASS CASTLE LANE Telephone 01642 311766 | www.middlesbroughgolfclub.co.uk

- SUNDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER

“ENTRY FORMS AVAILABLE ON WEBSITE” NORTHERN GOLFER 33

NORTHOFENGLANDYOUTHS

Clockwise from above: Richard Boxall, Roger Chapman, Jonathan Lupton and David Horsey

Making a name for themselves

he North of England Open Amateur Youth Championship has long been recognised as an important event in the amateur golfing calendar. Some of the biggest names in world golf have played in the event including three Masters 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 Colin Montgomerie. The event began in 1975 out of a suggestion by the 1967 Middlesbrough Golf Club champion John MacGill and the trophy 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.

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 computergenerated 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. David Hunter has meticulously recorded the stories of the championship over the years and much of what is being read here is from his files and the comprehensive programme he produces every year. 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 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’s Craig Cassells, was another Walker Cup player. More recently, Darlington’s Andrew Wilson, an England international and Northumbria University student, won 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 amateurs from across Europe.

VISITORS WELCOME

MIDDLESBROUGH GOLF CLUB • BRASS CASTLE LANE Telephone 01642 311766 | www.middlesbroughgolfclub.co.uk

34 NORTHERN GOLFER

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COURSEPROFILE

Burgham reborn Dean Bailey heads north to Burgham Park, a stern parkland test which is back to its best

he Andrew Mair and Mark Jamesdesigned Burgham Park has long been one of Northumberland’s toughest parkland courses with its challenging green complexes, huge bunkers and length from the back tees proving difficult for those looking to overpower the golf course. Set in rolling Northumberland countryside, Burgham is an excellent design which, while testing the bigger hitters to attack the tighter lines and more precise targets, allows high handicappers more generous sections of fairway to provide a playable and fun set of 18 holes. Opened in 1994, the course’s championship pedigree – it has hosted the PGA North Region Championship three times - can be found from the back tees, which can stretch to 7,065 yards while many will find far more enjoyment from the yellow tees – at 6,352 yards. The opening two holes are fairly straightforward. The fairway at the 399-yard first is generous, though you’ll find two bunkers to the right and another to the left should you miss the short stuff. A good drive will leave a mid-long iron to a wide green flanked

36 NORTHERN GOLFER

by two bunkers. At the second, 150 yards from the white tees, a solid mid-iron will find a generous green though beware the five deep bunkers – three 30 yards from the front edge of the green at two flanking the putting surface. While the third measures the same as the first hole, this dog-leg right is much tougher should you take on the carry over the fairway bunker on the right side while two trees guard the fairway just 60 yards from the white tee. Beware going too far over the first bunker – another lurks on the left side. A tricky two-tier green awaits your approach with three bunkers cut below the green. At 511 yards, the par five fourth hole is reachable in two for the big hitters. From the tee, the key is missing the two bunkers on the left side of the fairway 230 yards from the white tee. From here the hole drops towards a very tricky sloping green which sits at a 45-degree angle to the fairway and features steep mounding over the back edge, beyond which lies out of bounds plus two deep bunkers. The fifth, 411 yards, is played straight away and players can attack a wide green should they find the fairway here. Meanwhile the par five sixth is an

excellent birdie chance at 477 yards though stay clear of the fairway bunker to the right of the lay up area some 110 yards from the green and watch out for the out of bounds up the left side. The green is defended by a deep front bunker and contains many subtle contours. The par three seventh got our pick for signature hole (see fact file). The par four eighth plays shorter than its 404 yards on the card thanks to fairway sloping toward the green, though watch out for the out of bounds fence to the right. Most should make it past the three fairway bunkers to the left side to leave an approach over the larger of two greenside bunkers. Heading to the turn, the tricky ninth will test those taking driver with a carry of 240 yards required to clear the fairway bunkers on the left side and cut the corner of the dog-leg. From here, a short approach must not go long – where water awaits. At the 10th, pay attention to the pin position – the slopes here will test even the best putters. The need for confident driving is a recurring theme at Burgham Park and you’ll need three good hits to tame the 403-yard 11th, 497-yard 12th and 425-yard 13th. Look out for the two fairway bunkers

COURSEPROFILE

FACT FILE CONTACT Burgham Park Golf Club, Near Felton Morpeth, Northumberland, NE65 9QP Tel 01670 787 898 Email burghamparkgolfclub@gmail.com Web www.burghampark.co.uk short of the par five 12th should you try to reach the green which sits above the fairway, while we recommend an iron from the tee at the 13th – the gap between the fairway bunkers is narrow and there’s not much room to the pond. The 14th is a monster of a par four at 442 yards uphill. Though the fairway is generous here, you must hit two great shots to reach the green, which is well-guarded with a large bunker at the front left and three more wrapping around the right side of the green. The 15th is a much simpler prospect. While still more than 400 yards, there is room between the two fairway bunkers – the first of which has been reduced in size - on the right and the greenside bunkers are set away from the putting surface to provide a wide entrance to the green. At the par five 16th you’ll find a good birdie chance should you stay well clear of the trouble - play short of the three fairway bunkers, then lay up short of the water hazard to leave a short pitch which you can attack the flag with. The penultimate hole is the toughest par three on the course. The 172-yard hole is played uphill to a green ringed by five bunkers and required a well-struck long iron to hold the putting surface. Heading back down to the clubhouse, the 18th posed many problems for players when it featured a ditch running down towards the green. That hazard was removed before Gow’s arrival and the downhill par four offers a great chance for birdie with a short iron to a generous green. Looking down from the raised tee, the right side of the fairway is the best line as anything from the left must then clear a huge bunker on the front left corner of the green.

GREEN FEES Weekdays £25 Weekends £30 Twilight rates from 3pm Group packages for 12 or more players available – contact Kevin Gow for more details

Much has changed at Burgham Park since the arrival of manager Kevin Gow and his family in March 2017. A great deal of work has been carried out on the course – most notably to the greens, which are in superb condition; the fairway bunkering; and the rough, which is now challenging without being overly tough. The water hazards on the course have also been cleared out while in the clubhouse you’ll find excellent catering daily, including a topnotch Sunday lunch and a new spike bar in the conservatory looking out to the 18th.

TOTAL DISTANCE Blue tees 7,065 yards White tees 6,804 yards Yellow tees 6,352 yards Red tees 5,793 yards FEATURES Driving range Large putting green Changing facilities Bar and catering (10am-7pm) Spike bar downstairs Pro shop Buggies available Trolleys available CADDY’S TIP Ball striking is key to unlocking good scores here – you’ll need plenty of good mid and long irons when playing from the white tees. SIGNATURE HOLE The par three seventh is sure to test your ball striking. This 171-yard hole plays into the prevailing wind and features a water hazard just four yards from the front edge of the putting surface, though the back half of the green is far more generous than the front.

OUR VERDICT Burgham Park remains a challenging course with many tough tee shots and tricky approaches. If you want to test your game, this is the place to do it. NORTHERN GOLFER 37

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MATCHPLAYPAIRS

Seconds out...

Match Play Pairs 2018 is in full swing across the North East and Yorkshire

he Northern Golfer Match Play Pairs 2018 tournament is underway across the North East and Yorkshire with teams competing for a trip to Spain for the NE/NW Pro Am and the coveted title. This year, 75 teams are competing throughout the season at venues across the North East and Yorkshire. Match Play Pairs offers the chance to compete against teams from across our region and win a place in the NE/NW PGA Overseas Pro Am – to be played in February 2019. This year’s winning pair will team up with one of the North East’s best professionals in February 2019 for the NE/NW PGA Pro Am in Spain, as well as adding their names to the trophy. Teams are drawn against one another in the knockout format, played with 90% handicap allowance, with the final four teams making it to Close House for the semi-finals on Sunday October 7. The final will be played over the Colt Course at Close House, official venue of the 2017 British Masters, on Sunday October 14 with the winning pair heading off to Spain courtesy of GolfingHolidays.org. Good luck to all those taking part.

Read the full rules for the event online at northerngolfer.co.uk/match-play-rules 40 NORTHERN GOLFER

The Colt Course at Close House

Round of 64 results MATCH 1: Peter Simpson & Barry Walker (Alnmouth/ Bamburgh Castle) lost to Raymond Glendinning & George Freeman (Hobson) 1st extra hole MATCH 2: Ross Muirhead & Neil

Morrison (Boldon) defeated Phil Graham & Andy Dixon (Morpeth/ Durham City) 1st extra hole Dean Findley & Chris Park (Durham City) defeated Edmund Thompson & David Jenkinson (Wearside/ Houghton le Spring) 1up MATCH 3:

Mark Watson & Mark Todd (Tyneside) defeated Adam Bates & Dean Bates (Darlington/ Blackwell Grange) concession MATCH 4:

Will Wood & Shaun Batey (Close House) lost to Steve Slater & Colin Henderson (City of Newcastle) 5&4

MATCH 8: Gary Atkinson & Stephen Carter (Durham City) defeated Martin Crossland & Patrick Ward (Matfen Hall) 1up

MATCH 16: Robert Hughes & Stewart White (Chester-le-Street) defeated Philip Shaw & Liam Hall (Houghtonle-Spring) 2&1

MATCH 9: Russell Hunter & Joseph Hunter (Alnmouth) lost to David Robison & Harry Iveson (Whickham) concession

MATCH 17: Anth Mckeown & Alan Slater (Ramside) defeated Paul Whittaker & Robert Whitehead (Tynemouth) 4&2

MATCH 10: Paul Gray & Phil O’Ware (Sharpley) lost to Stuart Allan & David Haswell (South Moor) 7&5

MATCH 18: William Herron & Cameron Bowman (Bedlington/ Newbiggin) lost to T Kelly & R Preston (Billingham) 4&3

MATCH 11: Steve Weldon & Alan Saunders (Westerhope) defeated John Jamfrey & Robert Ellison (Roseberry Grange) 1up MATCH 12: Andy Foster & Paul Foster (Catterick) defeated Paul Watson & Peter Whitlock (Prudhoe) concession

MATCH 5:

MATCH 13: Len Eyre & Alan Scrambler (Magdalene Fields) lost to Nicky Younger & Ian Pattinson (Roseberry Grange/ Dinsdale Spa) 7&6

MATCH 6: James Ogden & Carl

Brydon (Tynemouth/Newbiggin) defeated Andrew Martin & Marc Morgan (Stocksfield) 4&3

MATCH 14: Steve Bell & Ian Duff (Hobson) lost to Craig Beadling & Jamie McPhillips (Romanby) 2&1

Stewart Breckon & Steven Robinson (Bishop Auckland) lost to Mark Brown & George Longthorn (Crook) 2up

Paul Cooper & Bill Morgan (Ramside/ Garesfield) lost to Craig Tetley & Allan Bendelow (Romanby) 1up

MATCH 7:

MATCH 15:

MATCH 19: Michael Davison & David Scott (Bellingham) defeated Adam Murphy & Brendan Murphy (Tynedale) 1up MATCH 20: Geoff Cruickshank & Nick Sibley (Eaglescliffe) defeated Kevin Hill & Michael Rowell (Arcot Hall) 4&2 MATCH 21: Matthew Sibley & David Wainman (Eaglescliffe) defeated Alan Walton & Dave McColl (Durham City) 2&1 MATCH 22: Malcolm Cregan & Robert Shanks (Prudhoe/ Westerhope) defeated Bryan Magee & Matthew Magee (Castle Eden/ Hartlepool) 2&1

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Cranston (Consett) defeated Bill Michie & Steve Slater (George Washington) 4&3 MATCH 24: David Cameron & Rod Martin (Beamish Park) defeated Robert Woods & Lee Sloane (City of Newcastle) 5&4

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Jonathan Rennoldson & Darren Richards (Seaham/Hobson) lost to Ryan Mould & Stephen Mould (Crook) 1up MATCH 28:

MATCH 29: Ben King & Jack Johnstone (Bellingham) lost to Ian McConnell & Geoff Wilkinson (Whitburn) 1up

MAGDALENE FIELDS GOLF CLUB

MATCH 30: Colin Mackay & Les MATCH 25: David McNeill & Dennis Wright (Billingham) lost to Michael Rutter & Phil Ridden (City of Newcastle) 3&2

Gutteridge (Centurion Park) lost to Peter Newman & Jason Green (Brancepeth Castle) 3&1

(Tyneside) lost to Francesco Di Pietro & David Geddes (Tyneside) 1up

MATCH 31: Jason Emmerson & Gary Davies (Chester-le-Street) defeated Peter Gallagher & Neil Walmsley (Durham City) 6th extra hole

MATCH 27: Mark Laverick & John Douglas (Stocksfield) lost to John Potts & Graeme Robson (Ramside) 2up

MATCH 32: Michael Hughes & Stephen Turnbull (Crook) lost to Paul Stocks & Kevin Broadfoot (Close House) 1st extra hole

MATCH 26: Jack Herriot & James Carr

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MATCH 33:

Michael Davison & David Scott (Bellingham) VS Nicky Younger & Ian Pattinson (Roseberry Grange/ Dinsdale Spa)

Mark Brown & George Longthorn (Crook) VS David Cameron & Rod Martin (Beamish Park)

MATCH 34: Dean Findley & Chris Park (Durham City) VS Raymond Glendinning & George Freeman (Hobson)

MATCH 42: James Ogden & Carl Brydon (Tynemouth/ Newbiggin) VS Malcolm Cregan & Robert Shanks (Prudhoe/ Westerhope)

MATCH 35: Steve Weldon & Alan

MATCH 43: Mark Watson & Mark Todd (Tyneside) VS Matthew Sibley & David Wainman (Eaglecliffe)

MATCH 41:

Ryan Mould & Stephen Mould (Crook) VS Craig Tetley & Allan Bendelow (Romanby)

Michael Rutter & Phil Ridden (City of Newcastle) VS Gary Atkinson & Stephen Carter (Durham City)

Ross Muirhead & Neil Morrison (Boldon) VS Steve Slater & Colin Henderson (City of Newcastle)

Peter Newman & Jason Green (Brancepeth Castle) VS Andy Foster & Paul Foster (Catterick)

MATCH 38: Ian McConnell & Geoff Wilkinson (Whitburn) VS Geoff Cruickshank & Nick Sibley (Eaglecliffe)

MATCH 46: Stuart Allan & David Haswell (South Moor) VS Robert Hughes & Stewart White (Chester-leStreet)

MATCH 39: John Potts & Graeme Robson (Ramside) VS David Robison & Harry Iveson (Whickham)

MATCH 47: Francesco Di Pietro & David Geddes ( Tyneside) VS Anth Mckeown & Alan Slater (Ramside)

MATCH 40: Jason Emmerson & Gary Davies (Chester-le-Street) VS T Kelly & R Preston (Billingham)

MATCH 48: Craig Beadling & Jamie McPhillips (Romanby) VS David Hornsey & Barry Cranston (Consett)

MATCH 44:

MATCH 37:

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MATCH 45:

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GOLFERTIPS

GETTING ON LINE

Starting putts off the line you’ve chosen can only raise your scores. There are two main causes for this: an incorrect stroke path or an unstable clubface. This drill is a great way to find the path the putter should be on and to concentrate on maintaining a stable clubface. Set up two lines of tees either side of your putter’s head and practice putting without hitting the tees – you’ll soon find a ‘straight back and through’ motion.

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ELEVEN win GOLFERCOMPETITIONS

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 August 2, 2018. Usual competition rules apply – available on request. Winners will be published in our next edition.

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For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Who has spent the most weeks at the top of the Official World Golf Rankings?

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WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT NEWBIGGIN GOLF CLUB

Located to the east of the Cleadon Hills, between South Shields and Sunderland, Whitburn Golf Club offers challenging golf with panoramic views of the North East coastline stretching from Co Durham to Northumberland. Overlooking dramatic North Sea cliffs, it is a magnificent setting to play golf.

Consett Golf Club was formed in 1911 and the course was redesigned by Harry Vardon a few years later. Today you’ll find a 6,083-yard layout set in 100 acres of the beautiful Derwent Valley on the county border between Durham and Northumberland, which will test your accuracy throughout your round.

The links and moorland at Newbiggin have stood the test of time and it is still a popular venue for the county’s best events. Designed by Willie Park Junior, the rolling fairways, sand dunes and North Sea wind make for a difficult test. Big hitting is an advantage here, while a sharp short game is key to good scoring.

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Who won the 2018 Irish Open?

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Congratulations to last month’s competition winners: Allendale - Graeme Smith of Eaglescliffe • Matfen Hall - Julie Fletcher of Darlington Rockliffe Hall - Peter Lee of Alnwick • Whickham - Roger Armston of Wylam 44 NORTHERN GOLFER

WIN YOUR CHANCE TO

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QUESTION : WHICH COURSE IS SET TO HOST

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EMAIL YOUR ANSWER TO: COMPETITIONS@ORIGINALGREEN.CO.UK COMPETITION CLOSES 31.07.18. WINNER WILL BE DRAWN RANDOMLY AND NOTIFIED BY EMAIL BY ENTERING YOU ARE AGREEING TO RECEIVE PROMOTIONAL EMAILS FROM ORIGINAL GREEN

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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!

We often hear remarkable tales of holes-in-one here at Northern Golfer but Jeff Pitt from Consett may well have taken over the top spot on the list. Jeff aced the 359-yard par four 16th at Consett, a hole which features a sharp dog-leg left with thick rough left and a ditch crossing the fairway in front of the green, en-route to a three under-par round of 68. Take a look at the picture here - taken from the tee box. The green is some 80 yards left of the slither of fairway you can see in the distance. Congratulations Jeff.

A correction from our last edition. In June edition we reported Ami Storey’s win in the Northumberland Ladies county championship, her sixth win in the event. Unfortunately we reported Ami’s home club as Blyth rather than Bedlingtonshire. Our apologies to Ami and the clubs.

Graeme Storm continued his rehabilitation from wrist surgery with a spot of caddy for his daughter Grace, who was taking part in the first Girls Golf Rocks on Tour event to be held in the North East. He was at Seaton Carew along with members of the Durham girls squad supporting the young golfers taking part. Abbie Brown, Ella Jackson and three past county junior captains - Ella Crang, Shannon O’Dwyer and Kitana Hollins joined 2018 captain Amy Sutheran to form teams in a fun Texas Scramble. To enter future events go to www.getintogolf.org/girls-golf-rocks 46 NORTHERN GOLFER

Durham Sixth Form were top of the class when Alex Stevenson and Matthew Watson won the girls and boys titles at the Durham Schools Championship at Beamish. Stevenson’s 75 was good enough to win the main girls crown, two shots clear of Briony Bayles. Watson then carded a 71 to finish three clear of fellow Durham student John Heppell. Congratulations to Alex and Matthew.

Meanwhile, congratulations to Dave Stevens from George Washington Golf Club, who recorded a hole-in-one on the ninth hole at his home club during the Heart Foundation Trophy.

Another remarkable occurrence this month, this time from Ramside Hall. Hosting a Beat the Pro challenge, professional Kevin Jackson proved too good for all 72 competitors in a recent charity golf day. Kevin celebrated the achievement with a bottle of champagne. Can you beat Kevin’s result? Email editor@northerngolfer.co.uk

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NEW WILSON C 300 WOODS/IRONS IN STOCK

PART EXCHANGE DEALS AVAILABLE THIS MONTH ON ANY PURCHASE OF POWAKADDY OR MOTOCADDY

STOP PRESS.. IF YOU ARE BUYING ANY NEW OR PRE-OWNED SETS OF IRONS, DRIVER, FAIRWAY, RESCUE, CALL IN AND SPEAK TO US TODAY. YOU CAN TRY BEFORE YOU BUY IN OUR INDOOR GOLF STUDIO!

FREE MADE TO MEASURE FITTING SERVICE BY QUALIFIED FRIENDLY PGA PRO’S WITH HONEST ADVICE. OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE

HAS LANDED

MANY SPECIALS ON QUALITY GOLF SHIRTS £19.99 OR 2 FOR £34.99

CALL IN TODAY YOU WONT BE DISAPPOINTED. 1000’S OF OUR CUSTOMERS CAN’T BE WRONG

HARD TO BEAT PRICES / DEALS

ALL TITLEIST 917 D2/D3 DRIVERS IN OUR SALE

ALL 2017 GALVIN GREEN CLOTHING & WATERPROOFS

BEST

TITLEIST VOKEY SM6 WEDGES WERE £109.00

PRICES

GIVEN

NOW £69.99 NEW KING F8 DRIVERS/FAIRWAYS/ RESCUES IN STOCK

FOOTJOY, SHIRTS, SWEATERS, TROUSERS EVERYTHING 30% OFF!!

THIS MONTH ONLY

NEW GALVIN GREEN

2018

RANGE

(WE GUARANTEE TO BETTER ANY AUTHORISED ONLINE RETAILER ON PRICE)

NEW CALLAWAY GOLF ROGUE DRIVER NEW CALLAWAY GOLF ROGUE X STEEL IRONS

NEW MIZUNO GT180 & ST180 WOODS. WE ALWAYS GUARANTEE BEST PRICES

NEW 2018 SKECHERS SHOES IN STOCK (WE STOCK FULL RANGE)

TITLEIST SM7 WEDGES MULTI BUY DEALS

(ALL LOFTS AVAILABLE) SEE INSTORE FOR SPECIAL OFFERS THIS MONTH

TOP PRICES GIVEN WHEN PART EXCHANGING YOUR PRE-OWNED EQUIPMENT WE HAVE ALL THE LEADING NAMES TO CHOOSE FROM WITH ALL DEMONSTRATION SHAFTS / WOODS / IRONS TO TRY!!!

ALL TITLEIST 917 F2/F3 FAIRWAY WOODS IN OUR SALE

NEW 2018 RANGE OF GOLF BAGS IN STORE ALL AT DISCOUNTED PRICES

40% OFF ... HURRY

ALL NEW SCOTTY CAMERON, TAYLOR MADE, ODYSSEY PUTTERS IN STOCK

WILSON 14 WAY DIVIDER TROLLEY BAGS £79.99 OUR PRICE £59.99 CALLAWAY TROLLEY BAGS £119.99 NOW ONLY £89.99

SKECHERS PERFORMANCE CLOTHING RANGE NOW IN STOCK

FULL RANGE OF 100% WATERPROOF CARRY AND CART BAGS IN STOCK (SAVE £££) (PRICE BEAT PROMISE) OVER 100 BAGS ON OFFER!

WE PRICE CHECK ALL OUR STOCK ONLINE TO MAKE SURE YOU GET THE LOWEST PRICE ALWAYS (PRICE PROMISE) How to find our superstore

Leave A1 (m) at junction 63 Chester-le-Street and follow B693 to Stanley, turn left onto B6532 (Asda roundabout), follow road to end and turn right, pass Blomfomtein School and follow sign to South Moor Golf Club

Your No 1 Discount Golf Store

Shaun Cowell PGA Golf Professional - Tel: 01207 283 525 South Moor Golf Club Superstore, Craghead, Stanley, DH9 6AG

Open Mon - Sun 9am - 6pm Early opening at weekends All major credit cards accepted

CUSTOM BALANCED. PRECISION MILLED.

Sole Weights

Tour-Calibre Performance The next generation of PING’s 100%-milled putters are crafted and engineered to provide tour-calibre touch and performance through proven innovations like patented True Roll Technology and a new custom-weighting system. Visit a PING Fitting Specialist or PING.com today.

Premium Finishes

Three finishes — Stealth, Copper and Platinum — are available, depending on model.

Custom weighting options in steel, tungsten and aluminium are offered to match a golfer’s feel and balance preferences.

Northern Golfer magazine #65 - July 2018

Articles inside

Ridley Makes His Mark