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BEST OF BRITISH The European Tour’s British Masters will return to Close House July 30-August 2, 2020 WIN A TRIP TO DUMFRIES FOR FOUR PEOPLE
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EDITOR Dean Bailey 01661 844 115 dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS Alan Hedley 07570 797 566 ahedley@northerngolfer.co.uk John Harrison Matfen Hall 01661 886 146 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 The season is off to a fast start, at home and overseas, and we’ve got a lot to cover this month... Let’s start with the fantastic news that the British Masters is returning to Close House and our region in 2020. The event is returning thanks to the record-breaking support it received in 2017, and the work of Close House owner Graham Wylie, the club’s attached professional and tournament host Lee Westwood, and all the team at the club. Read all about the event’s return on pages 24-26. Two things were weighing on my mind as I wrote the editor’s note for our April edition. The first was how my opening of tee shot of the 2019 season would go. That shot went well, what followed was less good... At the other end of the golfing spectrum, the second point concerned The Masters and whether Tiger Woods could capture a 15th major title. All the signs were there, his statistics showed just how good he was playing, but could he actually win again at Augusta National? How could we ever doubt him? There is a reason so many of us regard Tiger as the greatest player of all time and he showed how he, more than any other player in the field at Augusta, can win golf tournaments under immense pressure. As some of the game’s biggest names rose and fell on Sunday, Tiger produced a performance for the ages. While it wasn’t the runaway successes of the 1997 Masters or the US Open in 2000, this was under extreme pressure with a body bearing the scars of multiple surgeries and with more people doubting his abilities than ever before. To see him roar coming off the 18th green and to watch him celebrate with his children is a moment which will come to be as important as the many other iconic images of his career. Can he catch Jack Nicklaus’ 18 major record? I wouldn’t bet against him. Closer to home, our region’s girls have had a fantastic start to the season in the biggest amateur events while there have been successes for players including Matty Lamb, Cameron Wallace, Andy Scrimshaw and many more in the first few weeks of the season. This month we’ve also got a Round With our own Tips pro John Harrison, a visit to Hartlepool Golf Club in our Course Profile, a Tour Life update from Chris Paisley, a call for better etiquette in our clubs in this month’s column and plenty more. The season has only just started, but it’s already shaping up to be another great year.
04-08 TEEING OFF
Matty Lamb wins, our region’s girls hit the ground running, and James Glenn secures his EuroPro Tour card
09-15 TEEING OFF
Eaglescliffe win Inter-County title, Scrimshaw climbs up Alps rankings, and more
18 MATCH PLAY PAIRS Round one is underway
21 TOUR LIFE With Chris Paisley
23 DEAN BAILEY Manners maketh man
Dean Bailey, editor editor@northerngolfer.co.uk
28 A ROUND WITH...
Matfen Hall pro John Harrison
FRONT COVER The British Masters returns to Close House July 30-August 2, 2020
33 STAY & PLAY
Pages 24-26
42 TIPS
Our guide to the best places to stay and play in 2019
Take control of your driver When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it ©Offstone Publishing 2019. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All information contained in this magazine is as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Offstone Publishing cannot accept responsibility for errors of inaccuracies in such information. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically grant Offstone Publishing a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the magazine. All material is sent at your own risk and although every care is taken, neither Offstone Publishing nor it’s employees, agents or subcontractors shall be held liable resulting for loss or damage. Offstone Publishing endeavors to respect the intellectual property of owners of copyrighted material reproduced herein. If you identify yourself as the copyright holder of material we have wrongly attributed, please contact the office. Offstone Publishing do not guarantee the insertion of any particular advertisement on a specified date or at all.
30 HARTLEPOOL GOLF CLUB
39 THE LATEST GEAR NEWS 44 PROMOTIONS
Win a trip to Dumfries for four people, plus golf for four at Burgham Park and Castle Eden
46 BUNKER
Golfing tales from our readers NORTHERN GOLFER 03
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Alex Stevenson
Hat-trick for Alex Alex Stevenson made it a hattrick of Durham County Schools Championships at Beamish Park Golf Club. The Durham Sixth Form College player posted a round of 79 at Beamish to finish three shots ahead of Heworth Grange’s Faye Wheatley. Faye had the consolation of clinching the Girls Under 16 title with her round of 82. Dyke House College’s Will Skipp added the Durham Schools boys’ title to his list of achievements with a round of 75, one ahead of college teammate Jack Burton. Jack did however win the best nett prize and the boys’ under 16 title. The Dyke House team, represented by Will, Jack and Louis Westmoreland won the team title, edging out Polam Hall on countback. Dyke House now progress to the national finals at Woodhall Spa on July 10.
A charity golf day hosted by Sir AP McCoy at Rockliffe Hall raised £4,620 for the Injured Jockeys Fund with celebrities including Alan Shearer and Sean Quinlan taking part. 04 NORTHERN GOLFER
Northumberland girls flying the flag
N
orthumberland’s best female amateurs have got the season off to a flying start – led by Northern Golfer Champions of Champions Jess Baker and Rosie Belsham. Jess, the reigning Ladies Champion of Champions, finished in second place in the Comboy Scratch Cup at Delamere Forest, adding to a string of top 10s in some of the UK’s biggest amateur events. The England cap from Gosforth Park Ladies Golf Club shot rounds of 72 and 70 as fellow England international Bel Wardle defended her title with rounds of 65 and 72. Jess also recorded a top-10 finish in the Leveret Trophy at Formby Ladies Golf Club, finishing sixth overall with
rounds of 73 and 69 for a level par total. She also finished in a tie for 17th place at the Helen Holm Scottish Women’s Open Championship at Royal Troon Golf Club, posting rounds of 71, 73 and 74. Meanwhile, Whitley Bay Golf Club’s Rosie Belsham, the reigning Junior Champion of Champions, led the girls’ category at the Northern Schools Open at Fleetwood Golf Club with a round of 73. Rosie has also posted a tied seventh finish at Delamere Forest, an eighth place finish in the Leveret Trophy and a tied ninth finish at the Irish Girls Under 18 Stroke Play Championships so far this season. Seven girls from Northumberland headed north for the Scottish Girls’
Rosie Belsham and Jess Baker
Open Championship at St Andrews’ Eden Course. Jess led the way with a tied 22nd place finish following rounds of 77, 73 and 74. Rosie finished in a tie for 28th place, Libby Bell finished in a tie for 31st place, Maggie Whitehead finished in a tie for 37th place and Rachel Gourley made the cut and finished in 59th place. Zara Naughton and Faye Wheatley missed the cut. Meanwhile, Zara came in fourth in the nett category in the Levert Trophy with a score of 140 and Libby finished 11th with a score of 142. Arcot Hall Golf Club’s Rachel also finished in a tie for seventh place at Delamere Forest.
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Matty Lamb
Hogging the spotlight
H
exham Golf Club’s Matty Lamb won the prestigious Hampshire Hog tournament at North Hants Golf Club, breaking the amateur course record previously held by Justin Rose en-route to the title. Matty, who returned to the UK following events in Australia, Portugal and Spain over the winter, produced a final round 63 to finish two shots clear of the elite field. Sam Bairstow of Hallowes Golf Club finished runner-up with rounds of 70 and 65. Matty said: “I was very pleased with my performance at the Hampshire Hog. It’s always nice to shoot a good score when you need to
and my game is looking good for the rest of the year.” Past winners of the Hampshire Hog include Michael Bonallack, who won the opening event and returned 22 years later to win again, along with Peter McEvoy and Gary Wolstenholme. The win follows Matty’s top 10 finish in the Portuguese International Amateur and qualifying in seventh place in the strokeplay stage of the Spanish International Amateur. The plus-five handicapper and former England Boys captain will compete in the Lytham Trophy, and French and Irish amateurs in May ahead of a busy summer schedule in the UK and Europe.
PRO-RATA GOLF MEMBERSHIP AT CLOSE HOUSE (MAY 1-SEPTEMBER 30, 2019) Do you want access to the only two Lee Westwood golf courses in the world, a relaxing and modern clubhouse, and unrivalled practice facilities? We’re currently offering new members the chance to join on a pro-rata basis until the 30th September 2019. · Corporate/Associate partner - from £625 per month. · Full membership - £175 per month. · Spouse membership - £137.50 per month. · Premium academy membership (with Filly course access) - £60 per month.
Join before May 31 and get a place in The Lee Westwood Golf Day on June 24
· Intermediate membership (18-25 years) - £70 per month.
100 not out Serial county winner Andy Minnikin (pictured) started the season by collecting his 100th Northumberland cap in the side’s opening friendly match against Lothians. Andy, a member of City of Newcastle and Alnmouth golf clubs, is the reigning Northumberland county champion and picked up his cap in a losing effort as Lothians narrowly won, 9.5 points to 8.5 points.
· Country membership (live 40+ miles away) - from £60 per month. Members can benefit from 10% discount off on-site purchases, discounted green fees for your guests, exclusive tournaments and events, discounted bedroom rates, reduced green fees at reciprocal clubs, and much more. A full list of member benefits can be found at www.closehouse.com For more information, please contact membership manager Craig Wright, tel 01661 85 22 55 (option 5), or email craig.wright@closehouse.co.uk *Full and Premium academy memberships are very limited in numbers and come with a one-off joining fee. This can be paid in full or spread across the direct debit at no extra cost.
CLOSE HOUSE, HEDDON ON THE WALL, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, NE15 0HT TELEPHONE: 01661 85 22 55 EMAIL: craig.wright@closehouse.co.uk • WWW.CLOSEHOUSE.COM
NORTHERN GOLFER 05
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Top of the class
C Celebrations underway at Saltburn Saltburn Golf Club has hit the ground running in its 125th anniversary year. The club has renewed its sponsorship deal with SG Petch and launched a new website, showcasing the course and the recently renovated clubhouse. Saltburn shares its 125th anniversary with Bishop Auckland Golf Club and Bedale Golf Club, and the three clubs have planned tri-centennial matches later this year.
ameron Wallace is aiming for the World Golf Students title after being crowned the English and Welsh Universities champion. Cameron, a member of Seaton Carew Golf Club and a student at Northumbria University, secured victory at West Lancashire Golf Club with a closing round of 67. He chased down Durham teammate James Glenn, the first round leader following an opening 68, to add the title to the Association of Colleges Championship title he won at St Andrews last year. Cameron, 19, will now head to Peru to represent the English Universities team in the World Championships. He said: “I am really excited about this, I can’t wait. “I played with James over the last three rounds,” added Cameron, who saved his best golf for the final
Cameron Wallace round - where he made six birdies over 16 holes to better James’ four birdies and a bogey. “We were tied after 70 holes. I dropped a shot on 17, but James
had a double bogey, the first he’d had. We both parred the last to leave me one ahead after shooting 67 for the day, which was the best round of the tournament.”
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On tour
D
urham’s James Glenn secured full playing rights on this season’s EuroPro Tour by finishing in the top 30 at Final Qualifying School. James, the reigning Northern Golfer Men’s Champion of Champions, has represented Durham as an amateur while completing a PhD at Durham University and will turn professional ahead of the first event of the EuroPro Tour season. He said: “I’m excited to get started on the EuroPro Tour. Getting here has taken a lot of hard work and a lot of learning, and I feel like I’m ready. “I was really happy to get it done at Final Qualifying under pressure. Those last few holes were tough. I knew that I wasn’t going to turn pro without a full EuroPro card, but the experience of last season, particularly playing in European Tour Qualifying, really helped.”
James Glenn James came through the first stage of qualifying at Studley Wood Golf Club in a tie for 11th place before finishing in a tie for 30th place at Frilford Heath with rounds of 71, 72 and 70. He added: “I’m raring to go. I’ve worked hard in the last four years and that work is starting to pay off. I’ve got three goals this year, starting with making the cut in every event I play, that will show
I’ve figured out what I’m doing out here. From there, a win on the EuroPro Tour would validate me being here, and then I’d like to finish in the top five of the order of merit and earn my Challenge Tour card.” Meanwhile, Rockliffe Hall-based Andrew Wilson secured limited status on the tour by making the cut at Final Stage Qualifying. The EuroPro Tour offers direct access to the Challenge Tour
through the final order of merit. The top five golfers at the end of the season will be awarded a category on the 2020 Challenge Tour. Players qualify to play on the HotelPlanner. com PGA EuroPro Tour through the two-stage Qualifying School in the spring or thanks to their 2018 achievements. The 2019 PGA EuroPro Tour season gets underway at Brocket Hall on May 22.
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Chester le Street Golf Club, Lumley Park, County Durham, DH3 4NS NORTHERN GOLFER 07
TEEINGOFF South Moor Golf Club
Mini tour sold out One of the region’s newest minitours has sold out more than three months before it starts this summer. The County Durham Golf Trail – played over South Moor, Beamish Park, Brancepeth Castle and Barnard Castle – is only in its second season and will see 40 pairs of male and female golfers from all over the country compete over four days from July 7-11. For those who missed out, there is a passport option, which allows you to play four courses over a seven-day period for the same £150-a-pair price. For more information visit www.cdgt.co.uk
Amy’s triple crown
D
urham’s Amy Burton had a week to remember with three wins in seven days, including two county events and victory in the new Graeme Storm Mini-Open Series. The 10-year-old from Wynyard Golf Club started with victory in the Durham County Girls Appleby Bowl stableford event at Hartlepool Golf Club, mastering brutal conditions to record 43 points. In the main event, Ella Jackson successfully defended her title. The following day, Amy returned to Hartlepool - playing off her new handicap of 24 - and shot a nett score of 71 in the George Crawford Spring Medal to win the event. The following weekend, Amy headed to Rudding Park to play in the Graeme Storm Mini-Open and won by nine shots with a gross score of 46 for the nine holes played. A member of the County Junior Elite Girls Squad, Amy is
Whickham Golf Club
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Amy Burton with Graeme Storm following in the footsteps of several successful Durham girls in recent years - there are currently seven Durham girls studying in the US on golf scholarships. The win at Rudding Park gave Amy 200 points in the first event of the Graeme Storm Mini-Open Series. Meanwhile, Millie Hixon finished second with a score of
Whickham Golf Club the hidden gem of North Durham Golf. A vastly improved Golf Course that provides a fair test for golfers of all categories as well as stunning views of the surrounding Derwent Valley and beyond.
55 to earn 175 points, and Caylin Million finished third with a score of 59 to take home 150 points. The boys event was won Henry Price with a score of 34. Alexander Boys finished second while Elliot Moon was third. The series will be played throughout summer and we’ll have reports on each of the events.
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Girls Golf Rocks returns
N
ew dates have been announced for the Girls Golf Rocks initiative in Northumberland, Durham, Yorkshire and Cumbria. Free taster sessions will again be on offer, followed by coaching courses aimed at attracting more girls into golf. The free taster sessions are for girls aged five to 18 and PGA professional coaches will lead the activities with Girls Golf Rocks ambassadors from local clubs and the county girls’ squads on hand too. Equipment will be provided and there will be plenty of time to chat and make new friends. Girls can wear what they like as long as it’s comfy and keeps them warm. Trainers are fine for footwear. Girls who enjoy the sessions can go on to join a beginner coaching group to learn the basics during six weekly, one-hour sessions. They will also have the chance to get out on
Some of Durham’s Girls Golf Rocks participants in 2018
the golf course on the sixth week and play in a team alongside the Girls Golf Rocks ambassadors. They will also receive a US Kids nine-iron and goodie bag. The clubs involved in Northumberland this year are: Bedlingtonshire, Close House, Matfen Hall, Ponteland and Tynemouth. In Durham, Castle Eden, Darlington, Houghton and Woodham will host sessions. The
Cumbria clubs involved are: Barrow, Carus Green, Eden and Penrith while in Yorkshire, Abbeydale, Bedale, Cookridge Hall, Fulford, Hessle, Meltham, Moor Allerton and The KP are offering sessions. A total of 26 counties will be taking part, five more than in 2018 when some 1,600 girls took part. For more information and to book your place go to www.girlsgolfrocks.org
The countdown to the Seaton Salver’s 50th anniversary has begun. The silver salver has long been one of the region’s top amateur prizes and is one of the few 36-hole tournaments that doubles up as a qualifier for the Durham and Yorkshire orders of merit. This year’s event takes place on Saturday May 25.
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FULL MEMBERSHIP ONLY £595 (Payment in Full or use our NO FEE Direct Debit facility) For these and other Great Flexible 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. NORTHERN GOLFER 09
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Craig Goodfellow
Goodfellow back in fine form
Major Players INSIG
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10 NORTHERN GOLFER
North of the border, Kenneth Ferrie took top spot in the everpopular Archerfield Spring Pro Am. Ken posted a two round total of four under-par (76 stableford points) to lead the field as his team, featuring amateurs John Clark, Richard Derome and Ryan Brooks took home the team prize. Four players finished in a tie for second place two points back – David Clark, Vincent Guest, Nick McCarthy and Craig Goodfellow. Meanwhile, Tyneside Golf Club’s Gary Vickers has been elected captain of the association. Gary will host the return of the Tyneside Pro Am on July 19, while Teesside Golf Club’s Stewart Pilgrim has been elected as vice captain.
Dennis’ national honour
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he North East & North West PGA season is in full swing with a regular face topping leaderboards around the region and one of the North East’s best players capturing a title north of the border. Craig Goodfellow has started the season in fine form, capturing two titles in April alone. Craig led the field in the Pro Series event at Ponteland Golf Club with a three under-par round as John Harrison finished second with a round of 71. Craig added the Carlisle Golf Club Pro Am title to his collection with a one under-par score of 70, one shot ahead of Aaron Cox and Richard Sole.
Yorkshire’s Dennis Trickett, who has run golf championships for almost 50 years, has been honoured for his outstanding contribution to the amateur game with England Golf’s Gerald Micklem Award. Dennis (pictured) has been a Yorkshire county president as well as being part of the championship committee of the former English Golf Union, now England Golf.
He has also been secretary of the Northern Counties Golf Union for 12 years.
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Juniors pass the test
S
ome of the region’s best juniors took home titles from the Northumberland County Schools Golf Championships at Ponteland Golf Club – including a hat-trick of titles for Zara Naughton. Zara, a student at Ponteland Middle School and a member of Matfen Hall, picked up the U18 girls title, U16 girls title and girls nett crown, shooting a one-over par round. She said: “It was great to win my first schools county championship. My playing partners were fun to play with and pushed me all the way. “I’ve had a great start to the season in the Leverett Trophy but was disappointed my performance at the Scottish U18s so to bounce back with a win so soon is really nice. I am hoping to continue my good form this summer with a lot more events to come.”
Charlie Thornton (right) receiving the Cleveland Salver
Charlie’s fast start
Zara Naughton
Freddie McKenna
Meanwhile, Kings Priory pupil and Tynemouth Golf Club member Freddie McKenna was crowned U16 boys champion. Prudhoe High School and Hexham Golf Club member Joseph
Wynyard Golf Club
Robson won the U18 boys title with a four under-par round. Daniel Gilbraith (Ponteland High School) and Fin Bell (North Gosforth Academy) won the boys nett titles.
Reigning North of England Open Champion Charlie Thornton started the season with a bang with two victories in the space of four days. The Fulford player picked up the Raywell Amateur Classic at Hessle with a sparkling 68 and then moved on to shoot rounds of 71 and 70 at Cleveland Golf Club to win the prestigious Cleveland Salver by four shots - and take an early lead in the Yorkshire order of merit.
An exceptional golf experience
SPRING GOLF PACKAGES 2018/19 GOLF ONLY SOCIETY PACKAGE 18 holes of golf on the championship wellington course (minimum of 12 golfers required). 1st May – 31st October £37 per head WYNYARD 4 BALL Includes Coffee & Bacon Rolls on arrival followed by 18 holes of golf on the championship wellington course. 1st May – 31st October £180 per 4 ball WYNYARD 2 BALL Includes Coffee & Bacon Rolls on arrival followed by 18 holes of golf on the championship wellington course. 1st May – 31st October £99 per 2 ball For More Details or To Make a Booking, Please Contact The Professional’s Shop on 01740 644399 Ext 22 email proshop@wynyardgolfclub.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 11
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Robinson joins Rockliffe
S Claire Brown (centre) receiving the trophy
Claire defends vets’ county title Close House’s Claire Brown has been crowned 2019 Northumberland Ladies Vets’ County Champion. Claire defended the title she won in 2018 with a victory over Parklands’ Candy Brown in the event’s final at Westerhope Golf Club.
imon Robinson has joined Rockliffe Hall as the resort’s new head of instruction. Simon, 38, is a former European and World Boys Champion as well as a past winner on the EuroPro Tour and Challenge Tour. He joins Rockliffe Hall from Sharpley Golf Club, where he built a reputation as a top instructor as well as developing ladies Get into Golf and Learn Golf in a Day programmes, plus junior coaching sessions. Simon said: “I’m delighted to have joined the golf team at Rockliffe Hall. It’s a fabulous resort. The golf course and its facilities are exceptional. “I’m looking forward to offering lots of programmes, as well as private lessons for members and guests visiting Rockliffe Hall.” Simon is the current Durham County Golf Union captain, a role
Simon Robinson he took on earlier this year having coached the side. A graduate of the University of Houston, he played in the winning Palmer Cup team in 2000 before turning professional in 2004. In
his first year as a pro he won three times on the EuroPro Tour. Graduating to the Challenge Tour, he won the SK Challenge in Finland before competing on the European Tour in 2009 and 2010.
Prudhoe Golf Club Welcomes societies and visitors to our well maintained course and friendly clubhouse • Societies from £15, visitors from £18 per head • Limited availability for societies at weekends from £20 • 9 hole and twilight golf including weekend afternoons Enquiries to John Crawford or Joanne Robinson on 01661 832466 Full membership to April 2020 available for £349
www.prudhoegolfclub.co.uk 12 NORTHERN GOLFER
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Serial winners
S
erial winners Tom Smith and Will Skipp returned to the spotlight with victory in the final of the Northumberland and Durham InterCounty Foursomes Championship. The Durham pair captured a second title in four years for Eaglesclife Golf Club with a 3&2 victory over Morpeth Golf Club’s Sandy Twynholm and Phil Graham at South Shields Golf Club. Four-time NYSD champion and reigning Northern Masters champion Tom partnered Durham County Boys captain Will, who lifted last year’s Northern Federation Juniors crown as well as winning his third Durham County Boys Championship. Tom and Will lost in the final to City of Newcastle in 2016 before Tom partnered Sam Donald to the club’s first inter-county crown for 38 years when they beat Ponteland at Consett in 2017.
Tom Smith (left) and Will Skipp “We’ve only been behind twice in the six rounds played,” said Tom. “Once today, at the first hole and that was my fault - I’m happy to admit that - but after that we just putted very well.”
The Morpeth pair reached the inter-county final by beating Hexham one-up in the Northumberland final while the Eaglecliffe pair beat Bishop Auckland 5&4 in the Durham final.
Richmond Golf Club’s Karen Jobling has been crowned Yorkshire Veteran Ladies Golf Champion. Karen came through five rounds and three days of competition at Huddersfield Golf Club to win the title for the second time. The England international beat Huddersfield member Sandra Paul 6&4 in the event’s final.
Castle Eden Golf Club 18 Hole picturesque parkland course
OPEN COMPETITIONS 2019
Mixed Open Team Stableford - Saturday 1st June - £48 per team Seniors Open 1 - 4BBB over 55s – Thursday 6th June - £24 per pair Ladies Team American Scramble – Friday 14th June - £40 per team Seniors Open 2 - 4BBB over 55s – Thursday 18th July - £24 per pair Ladies Team of 4 Stableford – Tuesday 3rd September - £40 per team Senior Open 4 man team over 55s – Thursday 12th September £48 Entry forms available on www.castleedengolfclub.co.uk Now taking bookings for visiting parties and societies for 2019
Castle Eden Golf Club, Castle Eden, TS27 4SS www.castleedengolfclub.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 13
ADVERTORIAL
ALL CHANGE AT GARESFIELD Garesfield Golf Club extends a warm welcome to Darren Crowle who has
through initiatives such as Get into Golf and working with the
been appointed as Professional at the Club. Darren is a qualified PGA Class A
Golf Foundation and schools/local community to build a junior academy. He will also be available for coaching
Professional with 25 years’ experience as a Professional golfer, and includes playing for Durham County. He has worked with a number of clubs
individuals as well as group lessons. Darren still plays on NW/NE PGA and Euro tours and for future tournaments he will play out of Garesfield.
courses for important tournaments such as the British Masters and the
enabling him to take on a different direction in his career. We wish him all
including Billingham and Crook, and more recently has been working out of Middlesbrough Driving Range. The shop has been refurbished
It is with great pleasure that the Club also announces the return of Shaun Harrison. Shaun returns to take up the position of Head Greenkeeper
Seniors Tour. During his time at Close House he also spent time at Rockcliffe Hall preparing the course for PGA tournaments.
the very best for the future. If you want to play our course we hold a number of opens of varying formats and offer a range of green fee
and is fully stocked and includes Callaway Epic Flash range, Callaway Truvis balls, Odyssey Stroke Lab
at Garesfield. Since leaving Garesfield eight years ago Shaun has been working at Close
The Club extends thanks and warm wishes to Chris Wood, Garesfield’s outgoing Head Greenkeeper as he
offers – most of which are bookable online at www.garesfieldgolfclub.co.uk Our popular Friday Pie and Peas
Putters, Taylormade M5 and M6 range and Ping G410 and a range of golf bags, accessories and clothing.
House and has gained a wealth of knowledge, experience and higherlevel Greenkeeping qualifications.
leaves to take up a position with East Durham College working with Apprentice Greenkeepers.
competition is back – 18 holes of golf, sweep, 2s and pie and peas afterwards – all for £14.50 for visitors.
Darren provides full fitting on a launch monitor plus a price match promise. Darren will be key in working with the Club to grow its membership
He was instrumental in building their Par 3 course including all drainage work and has gained valuable experience in preparing
The Committee and members thank Chris for his hard work and dedication, and are pleased that his time at Garesfield has broadened his skills
For our 18 holes of golf for 2 and a buggy for £35 please call and book with the Pro shop or Secretary on 01207 561309
NEW FOR 2019-CORPORATE TAILORED PACKAGES
GARESFIELD GOLF
CLUB
2019 Opens now bookable through Golf Empire or the Garesfield website GOLF OFFERS WEEKLY FRIDAY OPENS Including Sweep. Pie and peas for £14.50 NEW MEMBERS OFFER FOR MAY First 25 members pay only £300 Contact the Secretary for details
All enquiries contact the secretary on 01207561309 or email garesfieldgc@btconnect.com
TEEINGOFF
Bid for the summit
A
ndy Scrimshaw has been in impressive early season form on the Alps Tour. After six events, the 26-year-old from Prudhoe has come close to victory in Egypt in the Katameya Dunes Open and racked up some lucrative finishes to move to 10th in the order of merit with nearly €9,000 in winnings. Andy shot a final round 68 in Egypt to get within one shot of forcing a playoff with Luca Cianchetti - a costly bogey at the 17th by Andy saw the 23-year-old Italian hang on to the title. Cianchetti finished with a 73 after rounds of 67 and 70, and admitted he did not play well while Andy produced a superb 68, which included six birdies and two bogeys. Andy was on the charge after starting the day in ninth place following rounds of 73 and 70, and found himself in the lead at six
Andy Scrimshaw Faye Wheatley (centre) with the rest of the qualifiers
European return
under-par after Cianchetti made a bogey on 10. However, the Close House-based pro bogeyed the 17th when he lost concentration. “I never looked at the leaderboards during the round,”
said Andy, “Then I saw my name on top and lost concentration.” A fifth place finish in the Abruzzo Open - Andy’s fifth cheque in six events - followed the second place finish in Egypt.
Northumberland’s Faye Wheatley has punched her ticket for her return to The Junior European Open. Faye led the girls qualifying event at Knaresborough Golf Club with a round of 80 as Nathan Ali led the boys qualifiers with a round of 76. A series of 45 qualifiers take place across Europe each year, including one at Middlesbrough Golf Club this September, ahead of the finals week at Alcaidesa Links Resort, Cadiz, Spain in November.
TWILIGHT GOLF Tee off after 3pm and enjoy Twilight Golf at Rockliffe Hall until 30th September. £35 per person
THE GREAT ESCAPE Take a swing on one of England’s best golf courses and enjoy worldclass service and facilities right here in the North East.
SOCIETY GOLF GROUPS Rockliffe Hall offers a five star golfing experience for groups and societies. From £40 per person
GOLF EVENTS Host your own, or join one of our special events taking place on the course this summer. For more about golf at Rockliffe Hall, or to book your tee time call:
01325 729980
or email golf@rockliffehall.com
www.rockliffehall.com Hurworth-on-Tees Darlington County Durham DL2 2DU +44 (0)1325 729999 enquiries@rockliffehall.com
NORTHERN GOLFER 15
PROFILE NORTHERN
PRO -FILE
JASON LASZKOWICZ AGE: 47 TURNED PRO: 1994 HOME CLUB: OWSTON HALL
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 16 NORTHERN GOLFER
WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN UP TO? “It’s been as busy as ever, particularly with reopening the golf course in the last few weeks following a major redesign. When the golf course opened in the late 90s it was one of the few championship layouts in the area measuring more than 7,000 yards. As the course has matured and we learned more about what golfers want, the course was simply too long and too difficult for most players. We started looking into a redesign six years ago and started the process of changing the course roughly two and a half years ago. We now have a far more playable setup, which can range from 4,500 yards to 6,000 yards, and the feedback so far has been phenomenal. On top of that, I’ve still got the day job of overseeing the golf, leisure and golf course elements of the business. I’ve also got a good group of coaching clients; a few events locally and in the region; and the small job of being Yorkshire PGA captain this season. It’s definitely been busy!” HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE GAME? “I was a late starter, not picking up a club until I was 16. I started out at Doncaster Town Moor Golf Club and progressed quickly by cramming about seven years of practice into three years. From there I jumped at the chance of turning pro and joining the PGA as a 21 year-old, training with Graham Thompson at Cocksford Golf Club.” WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD? “I’m really looking forward to welcoming people back to Owston Hall and seeing the venue grow. We’ve invested a lot into changing the golf course and presenting a more playable product for golfers of all abilities. I’m excited to see the course and business back at its very best with people out on the golf course enjoying the game. On top of that, we’ll have to see what the future brings.”
Tee off up to 50 times with Flexi Golf
August Society Golf Offer
FLEXI GOLF MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES
Groups of 12 golfers or more on a one tee start
Play 9 or 18 holes of championship Golf
Tea/coffee bacon Roll 18 holes 2 course clubhouse meal
Use points to invite friends to play The option to play in club competitions Great discounts in our Proshop and Clubhouse
Yearly Flexi Golf Membership only
£345
Package includes
Only
£40pp
Subject to availability. Spilt tees and shotguns not included in offer.
For more information please contact our sales team on 0191 3753089 or email golfsales@ramsidehallhotel.co.uk
MATCHPLAYPAIRS
Wynyard Golf Club
Seconds out...
Match Play Pairs 2019 is underway across the North East and Yorkshire
T
he Northern Golfer Match Play Pairs 2019 tournament is underway across the North East and Yorkshire with teams competing for the coveted title. A total of 72 teams will compete for this year’s title, a prize of £600 for the winning pair and a place in the region’s golfing record books. 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 30. Preliminary round matches are to be played by Monday May 27. The final four teams will make it to Wynyard Golf Club for the semifinals and final in October. This year you can keep up to date with all the results and round draws at www.northerngolfer.co.uk/ match-play-pairs-2019-draw-info For more information go to www.northerngolfer.co.uk or contact Dean Bailey dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk tel 01661 844 115 18 NORTHERN GOLFER
Preliminary Round draw Preliminary match 1 Kevin Hill & Michael Rowell (Arcot Hall) VS John Strachan & Trevor Dunn (Burgham Park)
Preliminary match 2 Stuart Mcintosh & Craig Watts (Wilton) VS Nick Sibley & Geoff Cruickshank (Eaglescliffe)
Preliminary match 3 Martin Seccombe & David Seccombe (Bedlingtonshire/Newbiggin) VS Stewart Breckon & Stuart Whithorn (Bishop Auckland)
Preliminary match 4 Ashley Coveney & Andrew Howard (Crook) VS Martin Crossland & Patrick Ward (Matfen Hall)
Preliminary match 5 Michael Hughes & Stephen Turnbull (Crook) VS Paul Gray & Phil Oware (Sharpley)
Round of 64 Match 1 Neil Morrison & Ross Muirhead (Boldon) VS Prelim 1 winners
Preliminary match 6 Craig Tetley & Allan Bendelow (Romanby) VS Micheal Beverley & Karl Dullaghan (Warkworth)
Match 2 Prelim 6 winners VS Colin Mackay & Les Gutteridge (Wallsend)
Preliminary match 7 Craig Beadling & Jamie McPhillips (Romanby) VS Duncan Foster & Neil Timbey (South Moor)
Match 3 Dean Findley & Mark Dobson (Durham City) VS John Jamfrey & Robert Ellison (Roseberry Grange)
Preliminary match 8 Dan Hutchinson & Andrew Dixon (Durham City) VS Jonathan Rennoldson & Darren Richards (Seaham/Hobson)
Match 4 Prelim 7 winners VS John Barnes & David Wailes (Arcot Hall/Bedlington)
MATCHES TO BE PLAYED BY MONDAY MAY 27
Match 5 Richard Wallhead & Peter Rudd (Rothbury/Whitley Bay) VS Vaughan Raine & Shaun Elliott (Crook)
MATCHPLAYPAIRS Match 6 Barry Cranston & David Hornsey (Consett) VS Ray Pipe & Simon Crowther (Rockliffe Hall/Slaley Hall)
Match 7 David Malston & Rob Coulson (Whickham) VS George Longthorn & John Littlejohns (Crook
Match 8 Gary Atkinson & Stephen Carter (Durham City) VS Bob Hughes & Stewart White (Chester-le-Street)
Match 9 Sean Durran & David Adam Twiss (Brancepeth Castle) VS Adam Bates & Dean Bates (Darlington/Blackwell Grange)
Match 10 Peter Simpson & Barry Walker (Alnmouth/Bamburgh Castle) VS Prelim 5 winners
Match 11 David Thompson & Terry Buckley (Billingham) VS Malcolm Cregan & Rob Shanks (Prudhoe/Westerhope)
Match 12 James Guy & James Melville (Crook) VS Prelim 8 winners
Match 13 Adam Murphy & Brendan Murphy (Tynedale) VS David Robison & Harry Iveson (Whickham)
Match 14 Prelim 3 winners VS Will Herron & Cameron Bowman (Bedlingtonshire/ Newbiggin)
Match 15 Prelim 4 winners VS Steve Weldon & Alan Saunders (Westerhope)
Match 16 Ray Glendinning & George Freeman (Hobson) VS Steve Slater & Colin Henderson (City of Newcastle)
Match 17 Ray McCarthy & Ian Phillips (South Moor) VS David Cameron & Rodney Martin (Beamish)
Match 18 Kevin Broadfoot & Paul Stocks (Close House) VS Malcolm Crowson & Ian Towell (Oulton Hall/Low Laithes)
Match 19 David Jenkinson & Edumd Thompson (Houghton le Spring/Wearside) VS Ian Rand & Justin Flannigan (Billingham)
Match 20 Ben King & Michael King (Bellingham) VS Brian Crampton & Andrew Williams (Durham City)
Match 21 Johnny Harrison & Adam Reid (Bishop Auckland/Wynyard) VS James Carr & Adam Richardson (Tyneside)
Match 22 Prelim 2 winners VS Paul Scott & Trever Hodge (Newbiggin/Morpeth)
Match 23 Paul Whittaker & Murray Newell (Tynemouth) VS Alan Anderson & Paul Smith (Ryton)
Match 24 Richard Woods & Peter Holland (Whitley Bay) VS James Ogden & Kevin Nixon (Tynemouth)
Match 25 Paul Foster & Dan Williams (Romanby) VS Alan Slater & Anthony McKeown (Ramside)
RULES A Pairs Match Play competition to be run in conjunction with Northern Golfer for its readers within its circulation area. Entry forms, illegible or incorrect may result in the entrants being disqualified.
Match 26 David Pringle & David Naunton (Houghton le Spring) VS Martin Mayoh & Stephen Eltringham (Houghton le Spring)
At each match, if courtesy is not given, green fees will be shared by both home and away teams.
Match 27 Mark Laverick & Jon Douglas (Stocksfield) VS Stephen Bell & Ian Duff (Hobson)
The maximum playing handicap is 24.
Match 28 Keith Muldoon & Phil Fitzimons (Durham City) VS Steve Buxton & James McCullagh (Romanby)
Match 29 Matthew Dowdall & Richard Mains (Cleveland) VS Peter Newman & Jason Green (Brancepeth Castle)
Match 30 Colin Arthur & Ralph Brown (Oakleaf) VS Simon Watson & Russell Taylor (Longhirst)
Match 31 Tom Craven & James Lagan (Romanby/Rockliffe Hall) VS John Buxton & Gareth Hold (Wilton)
Match 32 Matthew Sibley & David Wainman (Eaglescliffe) VS Gary Donnison & Keith McGreevy (Gosforth)
MATCHES TO BE PLAYED BY SUNDAY JUNE 30
All entry forms are to be directed to Northern Golfer with the entry fee. The minimum age for the competition is 18, there is no maximum.
Matches to be played using 90% of the difference of the handicap taken from the lowest handicap as per COGNU rules. Matches to be played off the tees of the day – (Home players may choose, depending on each club’s policy). This competition is open to golf club members with a valid handicap. Handicap certificates should be available at all matches for opponents to inspect if requested. No player can enter the competition more than once. 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. The home drawn pair to offer three dates and times to their opposition. No extensions will be given. In the event of being unable to arrange a date, both teams will be disqualified. Should a match be tied after 18 holes, the result will be decided by a sudden-death play off commencing at the first hole. In a play off, shots are received at the appropriate stroke indexes as they were during the normal course of the match. 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. No correspondence will be entered into. The prizes are not transferable. Distance Measuring Devices are permitted. All players must agree to being photographed and included in Northern Golfer should the occasion arise. The semi-finals and final are to be played at Wynyard Golf Club in October 2019.
NORTHERN GOLFER 19
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Chris Paisley
Welcome to the team Chris Paisley welcomes new caddie Jason Palmer to his team and shares his reaction to watching Tiger Woods win The Masters
T
he obvious choice of subject for this month’s column was Tiger’s 15th major victory at The Masters. Unfortunately I don’t possess the literary skills necessary to do justice to such an incredible moment. All I will say is that it was the first time I have cried watching a golf event. The big news in my world is that I have a new caddy. Following the event in Malaysia, I contacted my good friend Jason Palmer to see if he would like to take over from Sean Russell. Sean and I worked together for a little over four years and I have to say, he was brilliant; everything you could ask for in a caddy and friend. I want to thank him for his hard work, loyalty, and friendship. We had some great times and some tough times, but he was there every step of the way. He saw me at my best and my worst that’s
“It was the first time I have cried watching a golf event”
for sure! Unfortunately all good things come to an end. So, why the change? Sean didn’t do anything wrong to be honest, it certainly wasn’t an easy decision. I feel as though Jason’s experience as a player will be a big help. Jason was a very successful player in his own right. Following a few years of Alps Tour and Challenge Tour he earned his full European Tour card for the 2015 season. Unfortunately he had a complicated wrist injury, which cut his season and ultimately his career short. His final event was the US Open at Chambers Bay! We have been good pals since amateur golf after meeting through a mutual friend. It is pretty clear that Jason has all the skills to be a top caddy, and I was delighted that he accepted my proposal after a few days of consideration. He is an extremely hard worker and I believe he will bring more of a players perspective to the job since
he has been there and done it himself. One of his big strengths as a player was his course management, which I think could help me a lot. We’ve just completed our first tournament together, the Hassan II Trophy in Morocco. A respectable T-38th finish was a good start. My long game was not quite up to scratch to allow me to compete for the win but our strategy, attitude, and discipline meant we turned what could have been a missed cut into a decent finish. I’m excited to see how we can kick on there were so many positives. All I need to do is tighten up my long game and we should be up there contending for wins again. My next event is the British Masters. It’s sure to be one of the highlights of my season so hopefully I can give Tommy Fleetwood a run for his money.
NORTHERN GOLFER 21
MONDAY MADNESS TROUGHOUT JUNE, JULY & AUGUST Available from 2pm onwards Light snack and 18 holes golf £25.00 per person minimum 4 players Telephone 01429 274398 option 2 to book
2019 OPENS 3rd August John Proud Open 4BBB Stableford £25 a pair 4th August John Proud Mixed Open 4BBB Stableford £20 a pair 12th September Senior Open (55+) 4BBB Stableford £25 a pair 10th October Charity Open (Men, Ladies & Juniors in any combination) Greensome Stableford £15 a pair Entry forms available from www.hartlepoolgolfclub.co.uk or www.golfempire.co.uk
HARTLEPOOL GOLF CLUB HARTLEPOOL GOLF CLUB, Hart Warren, Hartlepool, TS24 9QF hartlepoolgolf@btconnect.com www.hartlepoolgolfclub.co.uk
COLUMNIST
Dean Bailey
Manners maketh man
I
Golf etiquette isn’t difficult, nor is showing respect to those who work and volunteer in our clubs, but why do so many golfers find it impossible?
’ve spent a great deal of the last month out and about at golf clubs, meeting people and talking about the things which are affecting courses and clubs. One thing that keeps cropping up, and something I’ve noticed more and more in recent months, is that there is a real problem with people not following the most basic elements of golf course and golf club etiquette. A good friend and green keeper raised one of the most important issues around etiquette and manners. It was really alarming to hear him talk about his interactions with a small section of the membership of his club. These interactions were something you would be appalled to see in a workplace or on the street – abusive, demeaning and confrontational were just some of the words you could use to describe the behaviour he’d had to deal with. It was difficult to hear, but something which I’ve heard about far too often. Having asked a few more people, at clubs around the region, it seems to be a common problem with a small number of members in a large number of clubs. While many are quick to point out that incidents like this are limited, almost all of the people I spoke to – whether club managers, green keepers or committee members - experience frankly vile abuse from members who would face severe punishments in a workplace for their behaviour. To hear the stories and learn about the effect this can have on the mental health of those in clubs, all of whom are passionate about the game and seeing their clubs thrive, was
really concerning. While this is limited to a very small number of individuals, it is appalling to know there are people at clubs all across the region who believe this behaviour should be allowed in any walk of life, let alone a sport which regards itself as having such high standards of conduct. We as golfers should be demanding better from anyone who behaves in this way, and supporting those who work hard in our clubs. Meanwhile, the common forms of poor etiquette remain prevalent and many clubs continue to fight against a tide of poor on course behaviour. I have seen a number of notices, emails and social media posts over recent weeks begging golfers to do the simplest of tasks – repair divots, fix pitchmarks and rake bunkers. These are all part of being a golfer and while many of our readers will be equally appalled to know that the situation seems to be getting worse, it falls on each of us to pressure our playing partners to show good etiquette and to call out those who show a lack of respect for others on the course. While none of us are perfect, we should all be doing our bit to support our clubs and the people that work and volunteer to run them for us. All of us need to take responsibility out on the course, and we all should be aware of the hard work each person in a golf club puts into making it a success. It’s can be very easy for some people out there to sit back and criticise, abuse and demean those who put themselves forward to serve our needs as golfers - perhaps those who show such a deep lack of respect would like to walk a mile in their shoes before their next visit to the golf club?
NORTHERN GOLFER 23
BRITISHMASTERS
Back in town
The British Masters is heading back to Close House July 30-August 2, 2020
Lee Westwood competing in the 2017 British Masters 24 NORTHERN GOLFER
BRITISHMASTERS
T
he European Tour will return to the North East next year with Lee Westwood set to host the British Masters at Close House for a second time from July 30-August 2, 2020. Following the record-breaking success of the event’s first visit to the Colt Course in 2017, which featured Rory McIlroy, Sergio Garcia, Martin Kaymer, Ian Poulter and Danny Willett, the European Tour will return to Newcastle next summer. Lee, who will host his European Tour colleagues at his home club, said: “I’m delighted to see the British Masters coming back to Close House, and back to the North East. “I really enjoyed hosting the event in 2017, it was a busy week but it was a lot of fun on and off the golf course. The support we had throughout the event was brilliant and I’m looking forward to doing it all again. We’ve got a great date, right in the heart of the summer, and we should have another very strong field. I’m sure the North East crowds will be out in force again to see some of the best players in the world on their patch.” The feedback from the players, on the host venue and the crowds in 2017, was incredibly positive, and Lee is looking forward to playing on home turf again. “All the players loved being in the North East and getting the chance to experience Newcastle. Everyone felt very welcome and I’m sure we’ll see a lot of the guys back at Close House next summer.” The 2017 British Masters was the European Tour’s first visit to the North East in 15 years and saw a recordbreaking 62,298 people attend the event over the week. Irishman Paul Dunne held off a weekend charge by Rory McIlroy to lift the trophy, his final round 61 including a memorable chip in on the final hole to secure a three-shot win.
Close House owner Graham Wylie was a key figure in bringing the event to the region in 2017 and has worked with tour since then to secure its return. “The European Tour’s return to the North East and to Close House is a great testament to the passion of the tens of thousands of fans that showed such tremendous support in 2017,” said Graham. “The tour has been looking for the right time to come back to Close House and I think we have a perfect spot in the diary for next season. Hopefully we’ll get great weather and even bigger crowds than last time. “We have proved the Colt Course is capable of producing an exciting event and that it provides a stunning platform for the best players in the world. I can’t thank Lee enough for his work, along with all the team at Close House; we’re all looking forward to welcoming the players and fans back in 2020.” Close House managing director Jonathan Lupton added: “To have the seal of approval from the tour to host the event again is a great feeling. Graham and Lee’s passion to see this event back in the North East has been incredible and their drive, along with the tour’s belief that the North East should have a tournament like this, has brought the British Masters back to Close House. I’m sure 2020 will be another memorable sporting occasion for the region.” As well as the four tournament days, the 2017 event included the Hero Challenge on Tuesday night, the final of the first Junior Masters – which has continued after the event and will take place again in 2020 – as well as a celebrity pro am on Wednesday. The event also raised more than £472,500 for its official charity, The Graham Wylie Foundation. Further details for the 2020 British Masters will be confirmed in the coming months, and we’ll have further updates as we build up to the event.
NORTHERN GOLFER 25
BRITISHMASTERS
The 2017 British Masters in numbers
-20
6th
61
Paul Dunne’s winning score
The highest ranked player in the field – Rory McIlroy
The lowest round of the tournament, shot by Paul Dunne on Sunday
£472,500
62,298
Raised for the tournament’s official charity - The Graham Wylie Foundation
The total attendance figure for the six days of the event
6
Lee Westwood competing in the 2017 British Masters 26 NORTHERN GOLFER
Major champions in the field, including reigning Masters champion Sergio Garcia
M5/M6
410
EPIC FLASH
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ROUNDWITH A ROUND WITH...
John Harrison One of our region’s most respected PGA professionals, Matfen Hall-based John Harrison, shares his favourite places to play, his love for playing and teaching the game, and who would get a place in his dream fourball
J
ohn Harrison is one of the North East’s most recognisable PGA professionals. A regular winner locally throughout his career, he has competed on the European Tour and the European Seniors Tour, the later alongside his older brothers Steve and Phil. Based at Matfen Hall, John continues to split his time between playing and teaching, with students ranging from club and county players through to Challenge Tour player Garrick Porteous and European Tour winner Ken Ferrie. We caught up with our resident Tips professional to learn more…
5 What’s your best ever round? My lowest score is an 11 under-par 61 over the O’Connor Course in Portugal, but my best round would have to be shooting 65 around North Berwick to qualify to play in the PGA Cup [the Ryder Cup for PGA professionals] in the US in 1994. Shooting a final round 67 to win European Seniors Tour Qualifying School in 2009 was also really special.
1 How do you split your time between playing and teaching? I tend to play two day per weeks in a mix of tournaments and pro ams through the season, and then I’ll teach four days per week along with doing a bit of work for the golf club. It’s a nice mix and I love being able to play competitive golf while helping people improve their own golf too.
7 What about embarrassing moments? There have been a few over the years. While playing in Africa, I managed to apply Vaseline nail polish remover rather than Vaseline lotion – a mistake I’ll never make again.
2 How did you get into golf? My dad was a footballer and my two older brothers and I all played schoolboy football growing up in Manchester. When we moved to Castle Carrock near Brampton Golf Club in Cumbira, there was less football but we were on the doorstep of the golf club. We all took up the game at the same time and the young pro at the club, Billy Laird, took me, Phil and Steve under his wing. 3 Which is your favourite course in the region? I love the experience of playing golf by the sea on a links course, that’s where golf should be played. In the North East, I would have to pick Bamburgh Golf Club and Dunstanburgh Golf Club. The scenery is great up there. 4 And further afield? I’ve played so many great courses all over the world but I’d still head back to the coast. The best example I’ve ever played is Turnberry, though the Old Course is a close second.
28 NORTHERN GOLFER
6 Which is your favourite golfing memory? Playing in the PGA Cup in 1994 at PGA National in Florida.
8 Do you have any superstitions? None, they’re not my sort of thing. 9 What are your strengths on the course? I enjoy it. It amazes me how many people seem as though they’re not enjoying their game of golf, but I genuinely enjoy being out there competing and playing. 10 And where do you focus your practice time? It’s always the short game. My swing is short and economical so I don’t need to practice that too much these days, but pitching and putting are really important if you’re going to keep playing well. 11 Which is your favourite club in your bag? My driver, it’s as good a part of my game as any. From there, I tend to favour the even numbered irons as I grew up using a half set and I only had those to practice and play with as a young lad. 12 Who is your best golfing friend? An old friend who I’ve played all over the world with, John Gould. We’ve played a lot of practice rounds together over the years and we’ve been
friends for a long time. Closer to home, there are loads of guys that play on the local circuit, both amateurs and professionals. 13 Which event is your favourite to play in? When I played on the Seniors Tour, it was always a toss up between Switzerland, a beautiful little place where we were always really well looked after and Mauritius, where the weather and setup was always fantastic. I really enjoy going to some of the local pro ams every year too, the people at the clubs are great and I enjoy so many of the events every year because of the people involved. 14 Who is your favourite tour player? I like Brooks Koepka’s attitude a lot and I think every golfer has to admire Tiger Woods. 15 What’s the best part of your job? The balance between playing and teaching. I enjoy having the regular competition locally and I still get a lot out of teaching people, whether they’re young tour players like Garrick Porteous or club golfers that I’ve worked with for years. 16 Who do you admire? The people who have endless drive to improve their golf. I teach a few guys in their 80s, and one guy who is 92 and still comes down for a lesson once a month. That desire to play golf and improve is incredible. 17 Which three people would join you in your dream fourball? I’d want to play with the best golfers so I’d pick Tiger Woods, Seve Ballesteros and Ben Hogan. 18 If I could offer you a Green Jacket or a Claret Jug, which would you choose? It would have to be The Open Championship. I grew up watching it, I’ve played the courses and there’s something about the tradition, the fact it’s open to anyone and that it’s played on the British seaside with all the conditions that brings that just makes it the best event in the world.
NORTHERN GOLFER 29
COURSEPROFILE
Hart of gold keeps shining Alan Hedley heads to the coast for a round at Hartlepool Golf Club
H
artlepool Golf Club is a true gem. It’s not a hidden gem – though you do need to find it through the tunnel under the railway line – it remains a popular track among those who enjoy a testing seaside layout on the North East coast. Emerging from the tunnel, you’re greeted by 18 pristine holes with rolling fairways, hillocks and dunes studded with Marram grass, and some of finest views of the North East coast. There have been subtle changes over the years with bunker improvements and new raised tees, but the hand of James Braid, who designed some of the holes, can still be seen - particularly at the signature 10th. At just 6,298 yards off the tips, the course isn’t the longest, though there are still five par fours measuring more than 400 yards and like many seaside courses, you can be faced with all four seasons in the same round here. 30 NORTHERN GOLFER
The opening holes at Hartlepool are good birdie opportunities. The par four first is in reach for many at just 267 yards while the 551-yard dogleg par five second can yield a good chance of an under-par start. That fast start often comes to a halt at the far tougher, 427-yard par four third hole, which is guarded by bunkers to the right and left sides of a large green. Another 400-yard-plus par four dogleg follows and you must avoid the water short of the green here before heading to the first of the par threes. The fifth measures 156 yards and should require a solid seven iron, though the wind can play havoc with that plan. The beach and sea are in full view to your left from the tee and the shot to the green needs to negotiate a crevice between the course and the sand below. A blind tee shot at the 332-yard par four sixth will challenge some while the 111-yard par three
seventh is trickier than its yardage suggests with a deep ravine in front of a green which is tucked in the side of a cliff. This one is regularly the most difficult par three on the course thanks to the wind, which can force balls into the ravine or off into thick rough. The eighth almost got the nod for the signature hole with its spectacular views of the course and coastline beyond. This 454-yard par four is a stern test with bunkers cut tight to the green. A far more comfortable par four of 376 yards follows at the ninth, just make sure to avoid the thick rough which borders the fairway. Heading into the back nine, you’re presented with a real James Braid gem. A fantastic signature hole, the 10th combines great design with stunning views (see fact file). Two par threes follow, presenting two very different challenges. The 200-yard-plus 11th hole is all about reaching the right section of the green
COURSEPROFILE
FACT FILE
CONTACT Hartlepool Golf Club Hart Warren, Hartlepool, TS24 9QF Clubhouse 01429 274 398 Pro shop 01429 267 473 www.hartlepoolgolfclub.co.uk Facebook @Hartlepool-Golf-Club-Ltd GREEN FEES Weekdays £35 (£20 with a member) Weekends £45 (£25 with a member) Buggies £25 per round (£35 a day) TOTAL DISTANCE 6,298 yards (white tees) 5,991 yards (yellow tees) 5,495 yards (red tees) FEATURES Massive practice area and covered bays Pro shop Buggy and trolley hire Clubhouse with bar, lounge and restaurant with your tee shot while the slightly shorter 12th is another of Braid’s finest golf holes, and affords another great viewpoint from the tee. As you head for home, the short par four 13th is a good birdie chance at just 310 yards while the far tougher 14th and 15th holes, measuring 419 yards and 399 yards respectively, require long drives. Two solid shots are also required at the 423-yard 16th to find a well-bunkered green. At the long 17th, beware the out of bounds to the left side as well as the bunkers short of the green which catch many approaches that land short. The 18th at Hartlepool offers a chance to finish in style at just 387 yards, though those looking to score well here must favour the right side from the tee while negotiating two large bunkers at the front and right of the green.
Hartlepool Golf Club is ablaze with wild flowers during the spring and summer, and the area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The club started out with a rough nine-hole course at Hart Old Village, where the land was rented from Mr W Purves for £10 per year. He became the club’s first captain and John Gardner was the first president - The Gardner Cup is still one of the club’s major trophies. The club moved to its current location at Hart Warren in 1907. European Tour Player Graeme Storm learned the game here before winning England and Walker Cup honours along with a British Amateur Championship. He’s also won twice on the European Tour – at the French Open and the South Africa Open. Graeme promotes and hosts a junior open at Hartlepool every year and recently launched the Mini Storm Series at venues around the region.
CADDY’S TIP Keep it on the fairways and don’t be afraid to putt from off the green. SIGNATURE HOLE The par four 10th hole is one of James Braid’s best. There are arguments for the short seventh, which is built into the side of a cliff and played over a ravine or perhaps the long eighth with its commanding views, but the 10th is a real gem. It may only be 358 yards but a straight drive is required to avoid the rough on the left and four bunkers to the right of the fairway, while the second shot is blind and must be played over a mound between two higher peaks to a large green below. A fantastic golf hole.
OUR VERDICT Hartlepool is a real joy to play. The course is demanding enough while rewarding those that play sensibly. You always receive a very warm welcome in the splendid clubhouse too. NORTHERN GOLFER 31
CAIRNDALE
THE HOTEL & LEISURE CLUB ENGLISH STREET, DUMFRIES, SCOTLAND, DG1 2DF Parkland Challenge - any Day Sunday to Thursday (July & September) 1 night Dinner, Bed & Breakfast * Dinner is 4 course Table d’hôte, includes full use of the leisure facilities, free onsite parking, free Wi-Fi and the following golf 1 Round of Golf: Choose from Dumfries & Galloway, Thornhill, Lochmaben, Colvend, Lockerbie, Golf Courses
Now Only £95.00 per person (minimum 2 people in Shared Twin) Bed & Breakfast with golf Now Only £85 per person (minimum 2 people in Shared Twin)
2 nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast * Dinner is 4 course Table d’hôte, includes full use of the leisure facilities, free onsite parking, free Wi-Fi and the following golf 2 Round of Golf: Choose from Dumfries & Galloway, Thornhill, Lochmaben, Colvend, Lockerbie, Golf Courses
Now Only £190.00 per person (minimum 2 people in Shared Twin) Bed & Breakfast with golf Now Only £170 per person (minimum 2 people in Shared Twin) Other course and longer breaks are available, to book the above golf breaks or to discuss your individual requirements please call 01387 240286 quoting “GOLF19” or email golf@cairndalehotel.co.uk Please note all golf offers are subject to availability and are available on new bookings only when booked before the end of June 2019
Tel 01387 254111 www.cairndalehotel.co.uk Visit our website www.cairndalehotel.co.uk or contact our Golf Coordinator Kevin Potts on 01387 240286
STAY&PLAY
Stay & play
Alnmouth Golf Club
Planning a trip? Try these… ALNMOUTH GOLF CLUB A trip to Alnmouth Golf Club in the coming months is highly recommended as England’s fourth oldest club is celebrating its 150th anniversary throughout 2019. Overlooking Foxton Bay, an area of natural outstanding beauty on the
Northumberland coast, the club has a long and distinguished history. Designed by HS Colt, it is regarded as one of the finest golf courses in the North East, renowned for the condition of its greens and overall presentation. A Top 100 golf
course in the UK, Alnmouth also has first-class practice facilities, a driving range and golf buggies for hire. Only 40 minutes drive from Newcastle, visitors are always given a warm Northumbrian welcome. For those staying and playing, the 26-bed
Dormy House within the clubhouse is designed to accommodate golfers with twin or single rooms with ensuite facilities while golf breaks can be organised to include a choice of the best courses in Northumberland. www.alnmouthgolfclub.com
NORTHERN GOLFER 33
GOLFING THIS SUMMER?
STAY&PLAY
Book your stay at the Riverdale Hall Hotel! The ideal location to stay and play some of the most beautiful courses across the region including Bellingham, Hexham plus many more!! Luxury hotel or self catering accommodation available that can be tailored to your needs. Les Routiers Gold Plate Award Winning Restaurant using locally sourced food alongside a well stocked bar serving a selection of real ales, wines and spirits. 1 night B&B plus a round of golf at Bellingham and full use of the swimming pool and sauna from £79 per person.
For further information or to book telephone 01434 220254 or email: reservations@riverdalehallhotel.co.uk Bellingham, Northumberland, NE48 2JT
MAY TO SEPTEMBER
FROM £23 MIDWEEK £30 WEEKENDS INC COFFEE & BACON ROLL
JUNE TO AUGUST
ONLINE SPECIAL GREEN FEES MON - FRI £20 ROUND PER PLAYER SAT & SUN £22.50 PER ROUND PER PLAYER
2019 OPENS
21.5.19 SENIOR MEN’S TEXAS SCRAMBLE 21.6.19 SENIOR MIXED OPEN 4BBB 18.07.19 MEN’S OPEN TEXAS SCRAMBLE 2.8.2019 LADIES OPEN 4.8.2019 MEN’S 4BBB 28.8.2019 SENIOR MENS 4BBB 8.9.19 MIXED OPEN 4BBB
ENTER NOW VIA OUR WEBSITE
Bellingham Golf Club CLAIM YOUR FREE 4 BALL GIFT VOUCHER (min 12 people)
34 NORTHERN GOLFER
Boggle Hole Bellingham NE48 2DT admin@bellinghamgolfclub.com www.bellinghamgolfclub.com VISITORS WELCOME 7 DAYS A WEEK
BOOK NOW ON 01434 220530
THE AULD CROSS KEYS INN The Auld Cross Keys Country Inn, Denholm has been at the heart of life in the town for more than 200 years. A popular choice with golfers visiting the Scottish Borders, the former bakehouse offers 12 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 26 people. Within a short drive of some of the best courses in the Scottish Borders, including Eyemouth, Torwoodlee, Minto, Jedburgh, Kelso and the Hirsel, the Auld Cross Keys serves as a perfect base for visiting golfers. www.crosskeysdenholm.co.uk BELLINGHAM GOLF CLUB Bellingham Golf Club sits in the heart of the Northumberland National Park and offers some of the best golfing views in Northumberland. Situated between Hadrian’s Wall and the Scottish border, the layout offers spectacular views extending up the Tyne Valley towards the Border Forest Park and Kielder reservoir. One of the oldest courses in England, Bellingham was founded in 1893 as a nine-hole course. Since then it has been extended to 18 holes, and matured into a stunning track. The par of 70 ensures it remains no pushover, and the signature par four 12th is regarded by many as one of the best short par fours in the region. www.bellinghamgolfclub.com RIVERDALE HALL COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL Bellingham Golf Club has a great link with the Riverdale Hall Country House Hotel, which means societies get a great deal on stay and play golf. For those travelling to Northumberland, or playing along the Tyne Valley, a stop over at the Riverdale Hall Hotel is highly recommended. The relaxed feel and hearty breakfast is perfect for those returning from a day on the course, or raring to get out there. www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk
STAY&PLAY The Cairndale Hotel
ALNMOUTH GOLF CLUB FOXTON HALL
Situated on the magnificent Northumberland coast only 100 yards from the beach, Alnmouth Golf Club has all the ingredients for a unique golf break in the area. Golf and Hospitality are our speciality
DORMY HOUSE GOLF BREAKS 2019 English Tourism 3 Star Accommodation Tripadvisor 2018 Certificate of Excellence • Dinner Bed and Breakfast with 2 Rounds of Golf Breaks available from £94 per person • 2 Night Breaks with 3 Rounds of Golf from a choice of Northumberland Golf Courses from £240 • Coastal Classic Golf Break - Golf at Alnmouth, Goswick Links & Bamburgh Castle with 2 Nights Dinner Bed and Breakfast from £280 Reserve your rooms for 2019 now, let us know when and where you want to play, we do all the booking, you relax and enjoy!
Email: bookings@alnmouthgolfclub.com Call: 01665 830231 Visit: www.alnmouthgolfclub.com Alnmouth Golf Club, Foxton Hall, Alnmouth, Northumberland, NE66 3BE
THE CAIRNDALE HOTEL Situated in Dumfries town centre, the Cairndale Hotel & Leisure Club is the ideal base for those heading north to sample the high quality golf and hospitality in Dumfries & Galloway, and into Cumbria. The team at The Cairndale are experts in hospitality and golf, 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, a four-course Table d’hôte dinner each evening and complimentary use of the hotel’s extensive leisure facilities. Check out the hotel’s golf breaks Facebook page (@GolfCairndale) for the latest competitions and offers. www.cairndalehotel.co.uk
NORTHERN GOLFER 35
Golf in the Scottish Borders Traditional Country Inn ideally situated for playing MINTO, HAWICK, THE HIRSEL AND ROXBURGH plus many more. 12 en-suite bedrooms with tv, wi-fi, tea/coffee making facililties, Sky tv. Restaurant and bar serving cask ales (good pub guide)
STAY & PLAY - £85 pppn
Auld Cross Keys Inn
Restaurant • Public bar • Lounge • Patio ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence
(based on two people sharing) or single occupancy £95.00 per night. This will include Bed and Breakfast two course evening meal and a round of golf
Tel: 01450 870305
bookings@crosskeysdenholm.co.uk www.crosskeysenholm.co.uk
The Green, Denholm, Scottish Borders, TD9 8NU
FOR THE LATEST GOLF NEWS AND VIEWS FROM THE NORTH EAST AND YORKSHIRE VISIT NORTHERN
WWW.NORTHERNGOLFER.COUK
June 2019 Next month we will be visiting East Lothian, showcasing the wonderful golf courses in the region. To be part of this special feature contact
Contact: Doug Brolls E: doug@offstonepublishing.co.uk T: 07721 031 482
36 NORTHERN GOLFER
STAY&PLAY NI GOLF The Open Championship will be played in Northern Ireland for the first time since 1951 later this year, making this summer the perfect time to sample golf across the Irish Sea. The team at NI For Golf have a wealth of local knowledge covering golf courses and accommodation, making them the ideal partners to arrange a package for your trip. With more than 90 course and accommodation options available, ranging from five-star resorts and courses including Royal Portrush and Royal County Down to local guest houses and stunning links layouts, Northern Ireland should be at the top of every golfers wish list when planning their next golfing adventure. www.niforgolf.co.uk
GOLF ESCAPES For those in search of guaranteed sunshine and golf a little further afield, Golf Escapes offers a wide range of tailored golfing holidays for people of all golfing abilities. The number of destinations on offer continues to grow and includes the best golfing resorts in Spain, Portugal, Italy and across Europe, some deals closer to home in the UK & Ireland, and long-haul options including South Africa, Mauritius and Dubai. The Golf Escapes team prides itself on having visited and tried out these resorts and courses to get first-hand experience and inside knowledge – ensuring they provide the best golfing getaways. Golf Escapes sends more than 10,000 golfers away each year to various parts of the world and the team has a reputation for unparalleled service and knowledge, and for creating great value holidays. www.golf-escapes.com
HUGO BOSS PADDY MK 2
BRANDS Hugo Boss - The new Martin Kaymer range are great additions to the wardrobe for the 2019 season. J.Lindeberg - The new SS19 collection from JL is great for both on & off the course with their iconic collection now available online. Galvin Green - Their Insula, Interface-1 and Ventil8 technology is spread across their full SS19 range and looks great. Adidas - SS19 footwear come in great styles to suit any outfit and offer undeniable comfort. Adicross - If you are looking for comfortable, casual clothing when practicing on the range, then check out the Adicross range.
HUGO BOSS ZINGER MK 2
GOLFERGEAR
Gearing up for summer This month we bring you a chance to use the same irons as 15-time major winner Tiger Woods, the latest footwear from ECCO, new threads from Oscar Jacobson and Mizuno, plus a trio of new laser rangefinders from Golfbuddy...
BEST FOOT FORWARD
ECCO S-LITE shoes RRP: Men’s £160, Women’s £150 www.eccoshoesuk.com/golf
ECCO GOLF has unveiled its latest design, S-LITE, the lightest leather golf shoe ever made by the company. Lightweight two-tone yak leather uppers lined with a soft textile provide natural water repellent and breathable properties, with the E-DTS™ LITE outsole offering award-winning grip and unrivalled flexibility with on-course traction. An innovative multi-injection production process has enabled ECCO to design a base that is 66% thinner than any other T.PU outsole that the company has previously created, making it the perfect packable playing option for overseas travel, or for an after-work round on a hot summer’s day.
TIGER’S IRONS
TaylorMade P•7TW irons RRP: $$1999.99 www.taylormadegolf.co.uk TaylorMade has announced the release of the P•7TW irons used by Tiger Woods to win The Masters. A premium players iron set, the new irons have been designed and crafted in collaboration with Tiger. They combine the minimalism of a precision forged muscle back blade-style iron with technology and exact measurements of TaylorMade’s Milled Grind sole while also featuring a tungsten weighting system for flight control and unique feel specific to Tiger’s needs. TaylorMade’s team spent hours unpacking decades of data and club specifications from Tiger’s career before testing and fine-tuning nine design iterations to create the perfect set of irons for Tiger. Each head has been individually engineered to meet the highest of performance demands. TaylorMade’s R&D and product creation teams studied decades worth of club specifications and worked directly with Tiger to refine every sole, every contour and every groove. With an emphasis on precise trajectory control, workability and turf interaction, each iron has been meticulously shaped. Each iron utilizes many of the same design elements such as blade lengths, face height, CG progression, sole geometry, score lines and tungsten weighting that Tiger has in the bag.
ON TREND
Oscar Jacobson SS19 apparel RRP: Various www.oscarjacobson.com Swedish menswear company Oscar Jacobson has released its Spring/Summer 19 golf collection. The collection features stylish, performance garments delivering fashion and function. The range – presented in Forces Blue, Maroon, Green and Red colour themes – draws heavily on the brand’s expertise in fashion tailoring. It includes premium polos to suit all golfing tastes and requirements, from the sporty performance of the Chap and Chester designs to the timeless elegance of the 100% cotton Darcy. The range also features performance pullovers, a Merino wool collection of pullovers and sweaters, outerwear options, trousers and accessories.
NORTHERN GOLFER 39
GOLFERGEAR Mizuno SS19 apparel and footwear RRP: from £40 golf.mizunoeurope.com
Mizuno’s latest footwear and apparel lineup features two new shoe options along with a new clothing range for the 2019 season. On the footwear front, Mizuno has released improved versions of its Nexlite and WAVE Cadence golf shoes. The new WAVE Cadence GTX is described as the ultimate long-distance golf shoe, designed to go 36 holes and beyond. Based on Mizuno’s award-winning running platform, the shoe blends the comfort and support of a high-end running shoe with the lateral stability and traction needed in golf. Meanwhile the Nexlite Boa 006 is a waterproof, spikeless golf shoe that shares the same WAVE platform technology. On the apparel side, three different performance fabrics lead the way: Solar Cut, Quick Dry and Move Tech. Solar Cut helps cool the body from the heat and ultraviolet light rays from the sun; Quick Dry absorbs and diffuses moisture quickly; while Move Tech is Mizuno’s four-way stretch fabric with specific material placement for ease of movement.
IN THE BAG With LOTTE Championship winner Brooke Henderson
© Mai Groves Shutterstock.com
LOOKING GOOD…
Brooke Henderson successfully defended her title and claimed her eighth career LPGA Tour win at the LOTTE Championship. With the win, Brooke tied Sandra Post’s record for the most LPGA Tour victories by a Canadian. George Knudson and Mike Weir share the Canadian mark on the PGA Tour with eight times. The 21-year-old finished a spectacular week in Hawaii with a two under-par 70 for a 272 total and a four-shot victory over Eun-Hee Ji. Here’s what was in her bag…
GO THE DISTANCE
Golfbuddy laser rangefinders RRP: from £229.99 www.golfbuddy.co.uk Golfbuddy has announced a new lineup of the laser rangefinders - Laser 1, Laser 1S and aim L10V Laser. The Laser 1 and Laser 1S are lightweight with an ergonomic and sporty design. Both offer 6x magnification and a wider LCD screen to ensure better visibility of measurements. They also feature three different targeting modes - standard, scan, and pin – with a vibration option to confirm target lock. The Laser 1S also features a slope function. The aim L10V includes an audio option to give spoken confirmation of distances, along with the technology utilised in the Laser 1 and Laser 1S models.
40 NORTHERN GOLFER
Driver: PING G400 (8˚) Fairway Woods: PING G400 (13˚ & 17.5˚) Hybrid: PING G400 (22˚) Irons: PING i210 (5-UW) Wedges: PING Glide Forged (52˚ & 60˚) Putter: PING Sigma 2 Valor Ball: Titleist Pro V1
STYLING 2019
#1 FOR MENS & LADIES GOLF CLOTHING IN THE NORTH EAST WWW.EUREKAGOLF.CO.UK • TEL: 0191 491 0700 • FOR MORE INFO
EUREKA GOLF LTD, UNIT 382E JEDBURGH COURT, TEAM VALLEY TRADING ESTATE, GATESHEAD, NE11 0BQ OPEN: MONDAY - FRIDAY 9.30 - 17.30, SATURDAY 10.00 - 16.00
GOLFERTIPS
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TAKE CONTROL
When playing in the wind, it’s important to try and use the wind to your advantage, and teeing the ball at different heights is a great way to do this. Generally, I’d want to see players teeing the ball like the one in the middle of the three here, with roughly half the ball over the clubface. When playing downwind, try teeing the ball a little higher, just like the ball on the left. This will help create a higher launch and help you take advantage of the wind. When playing into the wind, tee the ball ever so slightly lower to help create a lower launch with a flatter trajectory to get the ball working through the wind. Don’t go too low with this one - teeing the ball too low will encourage you to hit down on the shot and create too much spin. Test these out and find the best position for you for each scenario.
42 NORTHERN GOLFER
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NORTHERN GOLFER 43
GOLFERPROMOTIONS
win Northern Golfer competitions are also listed on our website www.northerngolfer.co.uk/ competitions Alternatively, you can 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 May 30, 2019. Usual competition rules apply – available on request. Winners will be published in our next edition.
WIN A TRIP TO DUMFRIES FOR FOUR PEOPLE The prize includes a full Scottish breakfast, a four-course Table D’Hote dinner, full use of the leisure facilities, free car parking, free wi-fi, two bedrooms (twin or doubles for a party of four), and one round of golf at a chosen golf course. Subject to availability. For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Which course will host the 2019 Scottish Open?
WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT BURGHAM PARK GOLF CLUB
WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT CASTLE EDEN GOLF CLUB
Set in the beautiful, rolling countryside of Northumberland, Burgham Park is one of the finest championship golf courses in our region.
Set among ancient trees and with the castle giving a dramatic backdrop to the back nine, Castle Eden remains one of Co Durham’s finest layouts.
For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Which course will host the 2019 US Open Championship?
For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Who won the 2019 Players Championship?
Congratulations to last month’s competition winners: Galvin Green jacket (XGolf) - Ewen MacIntosh of Darlington Arcot Hall - Chris Mills of Whitley Bay • Chester-le-Street - Debbie Ross of Newcastle
Exclusive Northern Golfer reader offer from Golf Escapes Hotel Le Manoir - 3 nights + 2 rounds | B&B 14th October - 30 December 2019
£179 per golfer
1 free in 8 | Eurotunnel included For more information and to book go to
www.golf-escapes.com/hotel-le-manoir 44 NORTHERN GOLFER
ADVERTORIAL
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. Get into Golf aims to inspire people to take up golf – with sessions aimed at people who have never played the game before, but want to have a healthier lifestyle, meet new people and enjoy the sport. Run by England Golf and supported by Sport England National Lottery Funding,
the initiative is delivered locally by golf clubs and PGA professionals. 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. All sessions are run by PGA professionals in a fun and relaxed environment. Equipment will be provided so all you have to do is book and turn up on the day in comfortable clothing.
For more on Get into golf, contact your local club – see the list right – or head to www.getintogolf.org
FOR FULL DETAILS AND A WARM WELCOME TO GET INTO GOLF SESSIONS PLEASE CONTACT ONE OF THE PARTICIPATING CLUBS BELOW: BEAMISH GC e: eil.stothert@btinternet.com t: 0191 370 1984 CHESTER-LE-STREET GC e: leesproshop@hotmail.com t: 0191 388 2333 CROOK e: professional@southmoorgc.co.uk t: 01388 762429 EAGLESCLIFFE GC e: secretary@eaglescliffegolfclub.co.uk t: 01642 780238 GARESFIELD GC e: dcrowle1@sky.com t: 07570 794910 / 01207 561309 MATFEN HALL GC e: jjvallely@yahoo.co.uk t: 01661 886400 RAMSIDE HALL e: digitalcoaching@aol.com t: 0191 386 9514 SHARPLEY SPRINGS GC e: krjcoaching@gmail.com t: 07904 033678 SOUTH MOOR e: professional@southmoorgc.co.uk t: 01207 283525 WOODHAM e: woodhamproshop@googlemail.com t: 01325 319977
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! This month’s From the Bunker opens with a story from reader John Rhind, who shares the tale of Lee Trevino’s visit to the North East in 1970: The story begins at the Open Championship at St Andrews, where Doug Sanders famously three-putted at the final green before ultimately losing in a playoff to Jack Nicklaus. Sanders will be remembered for the collapse, though few will remember that Lee Trevino led by two shots heading into the final round. Even fewer will recall the tale of his journey home via the first professional tournament at Whitley Bay Golf Club. The field at Whitley Bay that year featured Peter Thompson, Neil Coles and Peter Oosterhuis along with Trevino, who had been invited by George Logan on condition that George chauffeured him from St Andrews to Whitley Bay before taking him down to Heathrow to fly home. En-route to Whitley Bay, George told Lee about Seahouses Golf Club, where he had been instrumental in extending the course to 18 holes. Trevino wanted to see his work and, having surveyed the par three 10th, Logan’s Loch, played a few shots down to the green some 165 yards away. Having found the loch, Trevino threw down his nineiron while muttering: “It might have been an eight.”
© Larry Porges/Shu tterstock.c
om
The following day at Whitley Bay, Trevino finished well behind eventual winner Maurice Bembridge. He did however leave his mark on the event by finishing nearest the hole on one of the prize holes, which earned him a washing machine. After pausing to compose himself after holing out, he turned to address the considerable crowd and enquired, “Has anyone not got a washing machine?” A woman in the crowd put her hand up and spotting her, Trevino announced, “Well, you got one now.” Thanks for sharing the tale John. If anyone knows the fate of Trevino’s washing machine, or has another tale to share, email editor@northerngolfer.co.uk
Lee Westwood with South Shields pro Glynn Jones and Tony Mordew Alnmouth’s Golf Club’s 150th anniversary year got off to a nostalgic start with a hickory tournament. Playing a shortened course in period costume with equipment provided by the St Andrews Golf Company, more than 50 members took part in the event, which was won by Steve Tynan with 18 points over the seven holes, while Shirley Patterson won the women’s event with 16 points. Congratulations to Steve and Shirley, and good luck to all at the club for the rest of the year. 46 NORTHERN GOLFER
Lee Westwood recently joined former England and Durham cricketer Paul Collingwood for a round at South Shields Golf Club. They joined club member Tony Mordew and Craig Wayman for the game, with Lee shooting an impressive 11 under-par over the Durham links. Meanwhile, the National Golf Club Challenge – the UK’s largest amateur charity inter-club event - is offering the chance to play a round with Lee in its Challenge Online Auction, see www.ngccauction.com
Three new sponsors are backing the Northumberland County Seniors’ order of merit. CW Golf Solutions, Bailey Richards Retirement Advisers and The Pulman Group will support the expanded senior season. The new order of merit started with the Spring Medal at Whitley Bay Golf Club, and the Autumn Medal will be held at Goswick Golf Club in October. Two Texas scrambles, both at The Northumberland Golf Club, will also take place along with the Seniors 4BBB Open at Ponteland Golf Club. The team is always on the look out for new players and anyone over 55, who is a member of a club in Northumberland and holds a handicap of five or less is eligible. Contact Peter Simpson, secretary@ alnmouthgolfclub.com for more information.
The Durham County Junior Girls’ Elite Coaching Squad has embarked on an exciting new programme thanks to the support of Digital Office Solutions. The sponsorship will help fund nine coaching sessions with Andrew Nicholson and Andrew Betts at Wynyard Golf Club this season. The girls will also benefit from the support of members of the Ladies county squad during the on-course sessions which follow each of their coaching session.
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