Northern Golfer #96 October 2022

NEW CHAMPIONS

Morgan Blythe, Faye Wheatley and Tony Tomlin win Northern Golfer Champion of Champions events at Longhirst Hall

As we move into the final quarter of 2022, there’s still so much to celebrate for our region’s golfers.

EDITOR

Dean Bailey 01661 844 115

dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS

Alan Hedley 07570 797 566

ahedley@northerngolfer.co.uk

Shawn O’Neil Simon Olver Chris Paisley Chris Simmons

ADVERTISING MANAGERS

Doug Brolls 07721 031 482

doug@offstonepublishing.co.uk

Gillian Corney 07903 500 401 gillian@offstonepublishing.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY

Kevin Gibson & Nicky Rogerson info@kgphotography.co.uk

EVENTS

Dean Bailey

dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk

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Those celebrations include the crowning of three new Northern Golfer champions of champions - men’s winner Tony Tomlin, ladies winner Faye Wheatley and junior winner Morgan Blythe - who lifted their respective trophies at Longhirst Hall. See pages 24-27 for the full story.

As well as our own events, there’s still so much to cover from the last month right across the region. On the North East & North West PGA circuit, the evergreen John Harrison continued his winning ways for a 46th consecutive year, Vince Guest won the Matchplay Championship, and Tim Dykes won the Mizuno Order of Merit. We’ve also got success stories from the Durham girls’ win at the Junior Jamboree and Ramside’s win in the Durham junior league playoffs, and a look ahead to Faye Wheatley’s trip to Abu Dhabi to defend her Faldo Series Grand Final title. We’ve also caught up with Bryan Ross, who has stood down from his role with England Golf after an incredibly successful 12 years of supporting many of the region’s best young golfers.

As well as rounding up the biggest news stories, we’ve also caught up with our columnists - Chris Paisley, Simon Olver and Chris Simmonsand we launch a new column with golf fitness expert Shawn O’Neil too.

We’ve also sat down with Alistair Collin, who has raised more than £30,000 for the British Heart Foundation while playing the UK & Ireland’s Top 100 golf courses. Following Alistair’s journey over the last two years and eight months has been fascinating, inspiring and emotional, and it was a pleasure to spend a morning with him recounting just some of the tales from his epic adventure.

There’s also a trip to Matfen Hall in our Course Profile, a Special Focus on some of our favourite places to stay and play, a look at the latest gear releases, and three chances to win rounds of golf.

With the 2022 Champion of Champions behind us and our October edition in your hands, the final days of the 2022 season are well and truly upon us. We’ve still got a few events to come in our November edition - including the Match Play Pairs final. We’ll be rounding up that along with all the goings on across the region in just a few weeks’ time.

Until then, wrap up warm and enjoy heading out on the course, or, if it’s just too cold, stay inside with your copy of Northern Golfer instead.

Dean Bailey, editor editor@northerngolfer.co.uk

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champions of champions - Morgan Blythe, Faye Wheatley and Tony Tomlin

04-15 TEEING OFF

John Harrison continues his winning record; Faye Wheatley heading to Abu Dhabi; local, regional and national wins; and lots more

17 TOUR LIFE

With Chris Paisley

19 ON COURSE

With Simon Olver

21 TOUR TIPS

With Chris Simmons

23 19TH HOLE

Time to change

28 TOP 100

Alistair Collin on playing the UK & Ireland’s Top 100 and raising £30,000 for charity

32 COURSE PROFILE

Magnificent Matfen Hall

34 GEAR

latest equipment

36 SPECIAL FOCUS

43 FITNESS

With Shawn O’Neil

TIPS

45 COMPETITIONS

Win golf for four at Heworth, Newcastle United, and Garesfield golf clubs

46 FROM THE BUNKER

Readers’ tales from around the region

Clark Cup champions

Brancepeth Castle retained the Durham County Golf Union’s Clark Cup with victory over Boldon in the final at Birtley.

The five-man team proved near-unstoppable all season as they earned three wins and a half in the final - Dan Fox, Ali Baird and John Heppell all winning, and James Kempster earning a half point.

Meanwhile, the Junior Clark Cup final between Blackwell Grange and Durham City went City’s way with a 4-1 win.

46 years and counting

Maggie heading to Worlds

A trio of top talentsincluding Close House and Ramside member Maggie Whitehead - will represent England at the World Junior Girls’ Championship in Canada.

Maggie (pictured), Sophia Fullbrook and Ellise Rymer will travel to Angus Glen in Ontario to fly the flag for England at the under-18 event, which takes place October 10-15.

England will join 17 other teams from around the world, including Canada, Austria, Belgium, Chinese Taipei, Colombia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Mexico, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Wales.

John Harrison continued his incredible winning record as a professional with victory in Brampton Golf Club’s pro am on the North East & North West PGA circuit.

Matfen Hall-based John, who turned pro in April 1977 at the age of 17, picked up the winner’s cheque following a four under-par round of 68 over the course he grew up at. With the win, he notched a 46th consecutive year of winning at least once on the circuit.

“I left it a bit late this year, but I’m happy to keep the record going another year,” said 62-year-old John. “I only realised I was on this run a couple of years ago, and while I’ve played well in the last couple of months, I’ve finished second or made a late mistake to miss out.

“I still love playing competitive golf across our region. We get a lot of opportunities to play thanks to the support the pro ams have at so many clubs, so I know I’ve always got a chance somewhere. Playing a lot of events, the ability to score

never really leaves you, at least not for long, so a little bit of form always gives me a chance.

“Every win is a great feeling, no matter when or where it comes, though it was great to get it done at Brampton - a course I know so well and a pro am I’ve always loved being part of.”

John won his first event, a local PGA assistants’ tournament, in 1978 before going on to win in Manchester that year, making a hole-in-one on the 18th before beating Gordon Manson in a playoff to take home a total of £500 – 50 times his weekly wage at the time.

“There’s been good years and lean

ones. Anybody playing the number of events we do is going to find it once or twice in a one-round sprint though. My love for competitive golf and the pro am experience has always been there, I don’t get bogged down if I play poorly, so I guess that has helped me keep it going.

“I’m looking forward to the final events of the season and then getting back out there in 2023 – let’s see if I can keep the record going another year.”

As we went to print, John earned a second win for 2022 on the NE/ NW PGA circuit, leading the field in the Alnmouth pro am with a three under-par round of 68.

John Harrison

NE/NW PGA secretary Steve Harrison and John Harrison

Thank you, Bryan

After more than 12 years of

to support the development of the north region’s best junior golfers, Bryan Ross has stepped down from his role with England Golf.

Having started as the regional manager of the boys’ squad before taking on the combined boys and girls’ groups, Bryan has worked alongside PGA professional JJ Vallely in supporting the development of the region’s female youngsters for the last nine years.

In that time, the north region has seen eight girls capped for England – including Cumbria’s Caitlin Whitehead, and Northumberland’s Rosie Belsham, Maggie Whitehead and 2021 Women’s British Amateur champion Jess Baker.

“Playing a small part in the burgeoning golf careers of so many of the region’s best boys and girls has been an honour and a privilege,” said

Bryan Ross and just some of the players he’s worked with

former Durham county player and captain Bryan. “The boys and girls have done some incredible things, too many to list them all, and they continue to do so well at regional, national and international level.

Outside of golf, seeing them mature into well-rounded adults has been as

rewarding as what they’ve achieved on the golf course.”

While he’s stepping down from his England Golf role, Bryan will continue his work with the Futures squad, also coached by JJ, as well as the junior section at Heworth, and his golf coaching in schools.

“The coaches I’ve supported over the years have each been fantastic, and the last nine years with JJ have been an incredible learning experience. To work so closely with a friend and an inspiring guy has been a pleasure, and we’ll be continuing our work with the Futures squad in the years ahead.”

JJ added: “Bryan’s focus was always on making a difference and wow has he done that! I can’t ever thank him enough for the constant support he has given me. We’ve spent hundreds of hours discussing the girls’ development and left no stone left unturned in our effort to help every one of them be the best they can be. Without his experience, humour, caring nature, selflessness and unwavering moral compass, the programme would never have become what it has. He’s welcome to come back any time and try and take down another England international in one of our skills challenges.”

Irish eyes smile on Matthew

Former Northumberland county player Matthew McClean is heading to The Masters and US Open after winning the US Mid-Amateur Championship at Erin Hills.

Matthew - who played for Northumberland in 2017, including the county’s trip to the English Men’s County Championship at Trevose - overcame fellow Irish international Hugh Foley in the 36-hole final.

The 29-year-old optometrist, from Malone Golf Club, closed out a 3&1 victory over 25-year-old Hugh over the Wisconsin layout, which hosted the 2017 US Open.

Asked what it felt like to be a USGA champion, Matthew said: “It’s unbelievable really. To get a win was the goal for the year and to do it in the last event, especially this one with all its significance… I’m over the moon.”

David Gilroy, who captained the Northumberland team which Matthew earned eight caps for, added: “I’m delighted for Matthew and his family, who have always supported his golf and joined us a number of times while he was in the North East. He is such a great guy, easy to get on with and a tremendous team player. We’ll all be cheering him on in the majors next season.”

Faye Wheatley heading to Abu Dhabi for Faldo defence

Faye Wheatley will jet off to Abu Dhabi in the coming weeks to defend the Faldo Series Europe Grand Final title she won in spectacular fashion in 2021.

Whickham-based Faye won the 25th edition of the international event at Brocket Hall last season with a three-round total of six under-par, including a four underpar final round, to win the Girls U16 category by 14 shots and the overall title as the lowest scoring player across five categories.

Looking ahead to the trip to Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf

Club - which follows her debut on the Ladies European Tour in Belgium earlier this season - Faye said: “I’m so excited to head out to Abu Dhabi.

“The trip will be longest I’ve ever been on, and it will be a fantastic learning opportunity to play such an amazing golf course so far from home, and see a new part of the world and a new culture.

“The opportunities I’ve had since winning in 2021 have been amazing. I learned so much in Belgium and I know I’ll get a lot out of the Abu Dhabi trip too.

“I feel like my game is in good

Ripon student wins BIGGA

The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and sponsors Reesink Turfcare and Toro have revealed the winners of their annual awards.

Ripon City’s deputy course

manager James Gaskell (30) was crowned the 33rd winner of the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award as Carden Park’s Peter Pattenden (19) became the sixth winner of the Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year.

shape ahead of the trip – though there’s always some wiggle room for improvement and I’ll be working hard with my coach, Steven McDonnell, in the last few weeks before I head out.”

Established in 1996, The Faldo Series is a global amateur series for boys and girls. Competitors aged 12-21 have the opportunity to play World Amateur Golf Rankings events alongside some of the best juniors from around the world. This year’s Europe schedule includes 19 events, played across eight countries.

The 26th Grand Final takes place in Abu Dhabi November 1-3.

Faye Wheatley (left) and Patience Rhodes (right) at the 25th Faldo Series Europe Grand Final

Matthew and the Northumberland team in 2017 (© Leaderboard Photography)

Matthew McClean (© USGA/Steven Gibbons)

Peter Pattenden & James Gaskell

Match Play Pairs final set for George Washington

The final of this year’s Northern Golfer Match Play Pairs tournament will take place at George Washington in October.

The 21st Match Play Pairs final will see Beamish Park’s Luke Allen and David Whalen taken on Whitley Bay’s Steve Weldon and David Billham to earn a place in the region’s golfing history books. The winners will also receive a £600 prize, with the runners-up receiving a £100 prize.

Luke and David booked their place in the final with a closely fought victory on the second extra hole over the Durham City/ South Moor pairing of Steven Dodds and Neville Wanless at George Washington.

In the second semi-final, Steve and David overcame the Burgham Park-based pairing of Simon Watson

and Russell Taylor – winning another close match 2&1.

The Northern Golfer Match Play Pairs tournament is celebrating its

21st year in 2022, with 60 teams having set out in May to earn a spot in the final. We’ll have a full report from this year’s final in November.

Teesside boys win inter-district title

The Teesside Union’s boys won Yorkshire’s team championship at Pannal.

With five scores from six players counting for each of the eight teams, Teesside opened with a level par total of 360 before the team of Alfie Baldwin, Ben Cordwell-Smith, Jack Burton, Callum Moncur, Tom Hartshorne and Alex Boyes completed a 10-stroke victory over the Sheffield Union in the afternoon round.

Lee Norman, junior team manager, said: “I was very pleased for the boys as it was the final junior year for some. After some positive results, we came into the competition with an experienced team, which is not easy to say with players aged 12 and 13.”

EuroPro’s 2022 season to be its last

After 20 years of supporting the development of Europe’s male professional golfers, the PGA EuroPro Tour has announced its 2022 season will be its last.

Having launched in 2002 through a partnership between The PGA and Matchroom Sport, the tour has helped international stars from Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel to Aaron Rai, Tyrrell Hatton, Marcus Armitage, Richard Mansell, and many more. In the North East, the tour has hosted events at venues including Longhirst Hall, Slaley Hall and Linden Hall.

Daniel Godding, PGA EuroPro Tour CEO, said: “In a market evolving quickly, we feel the impact of changing global investment, media and sponsorship. It has become clear that unfortunately there is no longer the support nor demand in the market to operate the tour.”

The final event will be the Matchroom Sport Tour Championship at Lough Erne Resort, October 19-21.

City’s dream year continues at Dixon Cup

Durham City, champions of the North Durham League, completed an emphatic victory in the Dixon Cup at Longhirst Hall.

City topped the leaderboard by eight shots in the event, which brings together the winners of the North East’s five men’s leagues. James Glenn led the way with the best individual score on the day - a six under-par 67 - as Alex Robinson and Andy Bell added rounds of 72, Craig Bell shot 73, and Graham Marchbank and Richard Lee posted rounds of 76.

In the individual scoring, Eaglescliffe’s Ryan Riley finished one shot behind James as Alex and Andy finished in a tie for third place with their one under-par rounds.

The Durham City team posted

a total of 436 (six scores from seven counting) to beat Teesside champions Eaglescliffe by eight shots as Newcastle & District League winners Newcastle United (471) finished well back in third place, and North Northumberland champions Bamburgh (473) were fourth.

As well as winning the Dixon Cup and North Durham League, Durham City’s men’s team also won the North Durham Union knockout trophy this season. Having tied 2.5-2.5 after five 18-hole singles matches in the final, the title was decided on the first hole of a sudden-death playoff as David Bell defeated David Conway.

Last but not least, the club’s three-man team also won the Durham qualifier for the English Champion Club event at Lilley Brook - where the team of James Glenn,

Visiting

Jack Richardson and Andrew Bell finished 10th.

Club captain Colin Sturdy said: “I couldn’t have asked for a better year as captain of the club I’ve been part of for more than 30 years. The lads have been fantastic all year and I’m proud to have had the opportunity to captain them, and learn from them throughout the season.

“Winning so many times in a season is outstanding. Personally, one the many highlights was seeing David Bell win the knockout trophy in the sudden-death playoff. To have all his experience in that playoff paid off and our little chat afterwards was a great little moment for us.

“A special mention must also go to Alex Robinson, who was unbeaten in team games this season and won our players’ player award.”

WESTERHOPE

Durham win Junior Jamboree for first time

National finalists

D

urham’s girls hit the ground running early in their golfing careers by picking up the county’s first ever win in the Northern Counties Junior Jamboree.

The Durham team - Caylin Million (Chester-le-Street), Alice Atkinson (Durham City), Lilly-Anne Phillips (Houghton-le-Spring), Emily Holgate (Wearside), JinHan Wang (Tyneside) and Katie Westmoreland (Seaton Carew) – led the way with a total of 87 points in the two-day event, which sees players play both stableford and matchplay to earn points for their team.

Durham - represented by girls aged 12 and 13 with handicaps of 1540, finished five points clear of hosts Lancashire as Northumberland finished third, Cheshire were fourth, and Yorkshire were fifth. The win is their first since the event began in 2006, and saw Katie Westmoreland

finish as the joint top points scorer.

Durham county junior organiser Rebecca Gibson, who took on the management of the girls’ squad in November 2021 alongside coaching co-ordinator Julie Welch, said:

“To see the girls do so well was fantastic, particularly swinging the momentum their way with so much good golf on the second day.

“We’ve more than doubled the number of girls involved in county coaching to 45 this season and seeing them do so well this early in their golfing careers is brilliant. We hope to see them progress into the county girls’ squad for our annual matches against the other northern counties, and on through the system from there.”

The region’s county champions and club team qualifiers represented the region admirably in England Golf’s County Champion of Champions and English Champion Club events.

In the men’s Champion Club event at Lilley Brook, Hexham’s Morgan Blythe, Junior Dobson and Nairn Barclay earned a third-place finish as Moor Hall won the title, and Durham City finished in 10th place.

In the County Champion of Champions, Yorkshire’s Emma Brown won the Senior Women’s title while Durham’s Anthony Black (Senior Men’s), Cumbria’s Joey Hornby (Boys’), and Northumberland’s Morgan Blythe (Boys’) and Stewart Fell (Men’s) all earned top-10 finishes in their respective events among champions from across England.

Big wins for Grant and Dan

Grant Dixon and Dan Norman earned big wins to end their 2022 seasons.

In the North Durham Union’s Alan Curtis Scratch Trophy at Boldon, Seahambased Grant led the field with a superb seven under-par round of 65. Meanwhile, Dan, from Teesside Golf Club, won the Teesside and District Union’s Singles Matchplay trophy, beating Eaglescliffe’s Julian Wynn in the final.

Ramside win league title

Ramside’s junior team completed a brilliant year with victory in the Durham County Golf Union Junior League playoffs.

The team, aged from nine to 20, swept to victory in the final series, which brought together the league’s three regional winners - Ramside, Darlington and Durham City.

On the final day of round-robin

matches played at neutral venues, Ramside beat Durham City at Darlington to win by one point.

Ian Macdonald, junior liaison officer at Ramside for the past 15 years, said: “They have done amazingly well, they are a great bunch who deserve this success. The juniors are great ambassadors for the golf club and the section is going from strength to strength.”

Matthew Brady, who is also a JLO, added: “We’re very grateful for the help and support given to us by John Adamson, owner of Ramside, and director Helen Roseberry, which allows us to build this brilliant team.”

Helen added: “The juniors have done incredibly well and are a massive asset to the club. We hope this will encourage more young people to come and get involved.”

Left: Dan Norman with Neil Clarke (TSU president) and right: Grant Dixon with Peter Hogg (NDUGC treasurer)

No

fter four matches over Slaley Hall’s Hunting course, Vince Guest lifted the North East & North West PGA Matchplay Championship trophy for the first time.

Vince, who had made four previous trips to the final, beat Ken Ferrie 1up on a cold and blustery day at Slaley. En-route to the title, he had beaten Wynayrd’s James Harper in the morning semi-final as Ken beat Michael Pilgrim.

The Matchplay Championship brought together the top-16 available players from the NE/NW PGA Mizuno Order of Merit for a season-ending event with four rounds of matches over two days. Despite his win at the Matchplay, Vince came up just short of beating Tim Dykes to the title, ultimately finishing in third place, just behind Ken, as just 84 points separated the top three.

Meanwhile, the regionwide pro am circuit has reached its final stages with more top players picking up wins.

Morpeth’s David Clark picked up three more wins in September to add to his 2022 tally – leading the way alongside Andrew Scrimshaw at Seaton Carew (65, six under-par), alongside Ken Ferrie at Alnwick Castle (68, two under-par), and tying for the winner’s cheque with Tim Dykes at the Garesfield Centenary Pro Am (70, two under-par).

Tim also claimed the top spot in the Thompsons of Prudhoe Cleveland Pro Am alongside Vince Guest and James Harper (66, six under-par) as the event raised more than £7,000 for Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice. There were also wins for John Harrison at Brampton and Alnmouth (see page 4), Ken in the TMP Wealth Close House Pro Am (67, three under-par), and Mark Ridleywho won the Crook pro am by five shots with a five under-par round of 65.

Vince Guest

Mark Ridley

David Clark

Tim Dykes

Seahouses Golf Club

James’ maiden win B

lyth-based PGA assistant professional James Ranson picked up his first professional win in the PGA North Region’s Harold Lees Trophy at Dore & Totley Golf Club.

James, who played out of Brampton and represented Cumbria before turning professional and moving across to Northumberland, started slowly in Sheffield before following birdies at nine and 11 with three more in the final three holes to post a level par round of 72. That gave him a threeshot win over Leeds’ Thomas George, and secured the £400 top prize.

“I’m over the moon to get my first win as a professional and it’s a great feeling to top a leaderbaord after a couple of tough years on the playing side of things,” said James, who has just started his third and final year of training.

“Having got off to a shocking start [he was five over-par through eight holes] all my expectations went out the window and I just focussed on enjoying the game. When we reached the 16th tee, I was three over-par and just one off the lead. From there, I played great shots on 16 and 17 to make birdies, then topped it off with another one on 18 – all without a lot of feel in my arms if I’m honest.

“Since I joined the PGA, I’ve found it tough to balance my time in the shop, studying, coaching and playing and I’ve had to focus on things off the golf course. I’ve got more used to it though and definitely got the bug back this summer, which has shown in some better results. I’m proud of how I’ve worked hard on my game these last few months, even after long shifts, and hopefully this is a first win in a few. I feel like my game is in great shape, I’ve got a great balance in my work at Blyth, and I’m really enjoying all the aspects of my golf.”

Marsh wins at Rockliffe

Nick Marsh posted a superb six under-par round of 66 to win on the 2020protour at Rockliffe Hall.

Huddersfield-based Nick led the field at Rockliffe as Ben Rhodes finished in second place on four under-par. A trio of players, including Romanby’s Dan Brown and Ramside’s Jack Trewhitt, finished a shot further back in a tie for third place.

latest

results, visit

James Ranson

Academy expansion

Elite Golf Academies has launched a new partnership with the Morpeth Family Golf Centre to enhance the coaching offering at the venue, particularly for junior golfers.

Led by PGA professional Steve Bainbridge, the Elite team will be offering a vast array of coaching to players of all ages and ability levels on the driving range and golf course at the centre, while visiting local schools to introduce youngsters to the sport.

Steve said: “This new partnership is a fantastic opportunity and will allow us to take our passion for developing junior golfers to the next level, utilising the facilities at Morpeth alongside our vast knowledge and experience.

“Rolling out a full junior programme and going into schools will be a huge part of what we do going forward. We’ve all got lots of

experience in junior coaching and accreditation through TPI to back up what we’re doing, so I’m excited to see what we can achieve.

“We’ll also be offering a full suite of coaching in-line with the successful offerings we have created at our other locations in the North East. There’s a lot to look forward to for all our professionals and this is another great step forward.”

The Elite team - which includes PGA professionals Steve, Mark

Penny, Jonathan Levy and Matthew Naylor - will be joined by at least two more professionals as the programmes get underway in Morpeth, adding to their work at The Golf Hub in Gosforth and The Northumberland Golf Club.

Steve added: “We’re in a great position with our three sites and now we have the space to grow the business, we’re looking forward to bringing more local, talented professionals on board.”

Work underway

A programme of winter works to further enhance the golf course at Newcastle United is underway.

The programme, being delivered in-house, will include investment in tee box irrigation across the course as well as a new tee box mower.

Club manager Richard Lawrence said: “Having seen great progress on our greens in the last two years, we now want to extend the programme of improvement to our next priority area as we look to enhance our offering to members and guests in the coming years.”

Matthew Naylor at the Morpeth Family Golf Centre

Ian Hendry

Durham duo win seniors titles

Durham-based Ian Hendry and George Wraith achieved victories in two prestigious events as the season headed into its final weeks.

Ian, who plays out of Seaton Carew Golf Club and won the Durham County Seniors Championship in 2021, put together rounds of 71 and 74 over the Southport and Ainsdale links to win the David Marsh Seniors Trophy. He finished two shots clear of Bramhall’s Gareth Bradley and Garforth’s Steve Cain as Ramside’s John Kirkpatrick finished in fourth place with rounds of 75 and 73.

The victory was a poignant one at Southport and Ainsdale - the tournament taking place shortly after the passing of former Walker Cup player and captain David.

Meanwhile, Durham City-based George enjoyed a successful trip north to Southerness, winning the Super Seniors International Masters.

George’s triumph came after a close countback on the last nine holes of the third and final round, the City player posting a five over-par total of 212, including a closing round of 69, to edge out Worthing’s Doug Cameron.

Hero Cup for Abu Dhabi

The DP World Tour will stage the Hero Cup - a new team matchplay contest between Great Britain & Ireland and Continental Europe - at Abu Dhabi Golf Club from January 13-15, 2023.

Two 10-man teams will be selected by Luke Donald, who will preside over the event in his capacity as 2023 European Ryder Cup captain, in consultation with

the two team captains, who will be named in the coming months.

Luke will work with both teams in Abu Dhabi and will keep a close eye on the action inside the ropes across the three days, with the contest consisting of one session of foursomes, one session of fourballs and one session of singles matches, with all 20 players taking part in each session.

George Wraith

Take your game to the next level

Northern Golfer has teamed up with personal trainer and golf fitness expert Shawn O’Neil to share his knowledge with golfers of all ages and abilities in the coming months.

Through his column, which you can read on page 43 this month, Shawn will share advice based on his eight years’ of experience as a personal trainer specialising in golf.

Part of the Elite Golf Academies system and based at The Golf Hub in Gosforth, Shawn works with some of the region’s best amateur golfers, including England international Rosie Belsham, professional Will Wilkinson, and a number of male and female Northumberland county players. His qualifications include Titleist Performance Institute Level 3 Fitness and Level 2 Power certification, and he is a Register of Exercise Professionals level 3 personal trainer.

While working with elite players, he has also built a great deal of experience working with club golfers to improve their ability to make consistent swings, aiding the reduction of their handicaps.

“I’m really looking forward to sharing my knowledge with Northern Golfer’s readers and promoting the benefits of physical training to as many golfers as possible,” said Shawn.

“In my experience, the fitness aspect of golf is not only massively underutilised among club golfers, but also misunderstood. It’s certainly not all about world-class male athletes like Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm moving huge amount of weight in the gym, it’s important to create programmes for individuals which promote injury prevention and playing longevity, and ensure your body is robust enough to facilitate the repeated forces of the golf swing over a round and season.”

Shawn O’Neil

The addition of Shawn enhances Northern Golfer’s columnists in each edition, which includes DP World Tour player Chris Paisley, Ganton

course manager Simon Olver, PGA professional Doug Brolls, our editor Dean Bailey, and Tour Tips caddies Sean Russell and Chris Simmons.

Chris Paisley

The grind continues

DP World Tour player Chris Paisley on recent results and off-course progress

My missed cut streak is now into triple digits… at least that’s how it feels.

The truth is, I have become a little bit numb to my results. I am simply trying to get my game back to a spot where I can compete against the best players. That will inevitably take care of the results.

Since my last column, my scores have not gotten any better, but behind the scenes there are many signs of encouragement. It begins with the work I am doing with Andrew Nicholson, my coach, and my brother Andy, my putting coach. I am seeing good swings, executing more good shots, and my “natural” swing is feeling more and more natural. There have been encouraging signs in tournament play too. At Wentworth and Le Golf National, I felt like I was getting back to my old self. The quality of the good shots was so pleasing. The strike was better - I was hitting it high again and I had my draw shape back. There are still

some bad shots in there, obviously, but I can feel myself becoming less and less worried about them. I wish my confidence and form would come back in one quick rush, but unfortunately that isn’t how it works. It seems to be a drip feed. Every day feels a little bit better, like I am closing in on my goal, and seeing more and more light.

Having gone through such a tough time, there is inevitably a lot of noise. There are pressures and stresses that just aren’t there when you are playing well. A huge part of my job at the moment is quieting that noise as much as possible. The task in front of me is huge. That excites me because I know that when I come out the other side, I will have overcome my biggest ever challenge. I will be so much stronger for it. This run has forced me to re-evaluate all aspects of my life and game. I feel as though I have made the necessary changes and it is a matter of time until I am back playing at the level I know I am capable of.

Simon Olver

Winter is coming

Simon Olver, course manager at Ganton, on helping greenkeepers through the winter months ahead

In the coming weeks, the heat and sunshine of summer will be replaced with autumnal winds and wetter conditions as we move into the final quarter of 2022.

Winters in the UK can be volatile and unpredictable times, and test every team’s ability to prepare courses. If we experience frosts, winter projects may be delayed as the ground is too hard to work with, while wet weather makes for long, taxing days and the dreaded swathes of mud, particularly on inland courses, we all dislike seeing.

As temperatures cool and moisture levels increase, we also face a higher risk of turf disease. With fewer chemicals on the market, and those remaining being less potent, we must take a long-term, holistic approach to disease prevention and return to more traditional and sustainable techniques as reaching for a quick fix from a bottle is no longer an option.

One of the biggest changes during this time is the presentation of putting

surfaces. In order to protect fine turf areas, they are kept longer in cold and wet periods. You’ll potentially see speeds drop and the surfaces become bumpier as mowing heights are raised to protect plants from mechanical damage (mowing and foot traffic) and minimise environmental stress (from the weather).

With less growth, our work on fine turfs will also decrease, so the finished product will be less refined.

As daylight hours reduce, we also lift the height of cut to increase the leaf’s surface area, boosting energy production through photosynthesis to strengthen the grasses and empower them to fight off disease. Each greenkeeping team will constantly be assessing this situation and adjusting to their specific site and grass composition.

Over the coming months, please endeavour to do your part to aid a fast recovery in the spring. If you’re able to, carry your clubs as this reduces wear around high traffic areas such as greens and tees. Repairing pitchmarks and

divots is essential year-round, but when growth slows and stops it is vital these are repaired immediately to prevent longterm damage.

From there, follow the rules. If winter wheels are required on trolleys, please use them as they greatly reduce damage to soft areas. Where they are used, fairway mats can make a huge difference come April, allowing courses to start the season with much cleaner turf. And do follow the routes marked out as these move you away from areas which are important during the playing season or particularly wet spots where any damage will take longer to recover. Ignoring these may ultimately lead to course closures due to safety concerns.

Finally, remember we’re in winter golf season. Greens and bunkers will play differently, and you’ll be navigating a different golf course to ensure we can have it back to its very best as early as possible in the spring. Enjoy a brisk pace, wrap up warm and try to make the most of the next few months.

GARESFIELD GOLF CLUB

Chris Simmons

Golfers for all seasons

Chris Simmons, who caddies for DP World Tour player Matt Jordan, shares his advice on playing in all weathers

As part of the DP World Tour, Matt and I are very lucky to (generally) chase the sun around the world. But, when the wind and rain catch up with us, how professional golfers deal with it separates them so much from club golfers.

The wind is the primary thing we’ll face on tour. While every player and caddy have a different process for assessing the wind’s direction and strength, applying a very specific number of yards or metres to this assessment is common. The process starts on the range, where we’ll discuss what’s happening, give it a number, then measure what happens with our eyes and the help of TrackMan. Calibrating is a great start, but being able to adjust on the fly on the course is equally important.

For club golfers, this is actually easier as they play the same course or courses over and over. Wind direction becomes easier when you know the prevailing wind, and your data should be far better as you hit

more shots in the same conditions over the course of a season or longer.

Something club golfers won’t see as much as we do is how changes in temperature affect yardages. Travelling from the Middle East to Europe requires some calibration, while it’s important to look at the change in temperature during a round – particularly in Europe at this time of year when you’re teeing off early.

Again, having specific numbers in place when discussing this is key to being able to give your player concise information.

It’s also important o know how wind and temperature interact – a 15mph wind in October in Scotland is very different to 15mph in the Middle East!

Rain is one thing the club golfer, especially in the UK, will see more often than we do. Preparation is key – packing all the rain gear and making sure you have plenty of dry towels are pretty obvious.

From there, it’s about making sure your player is as dry as possible, normally

resulting in you getting absolutely soaked while doing a bad impression of an octopus for five hours.

Without the aid of a caddy, you’re always at a disadvantage, but a good pair of rain gloves, quality waterproofs and a big umbrella are all a good start. Remember, waterproofs take some speed off your swing, while the wet ground will be softer and slower, reducing total distance on tee shots and increasing how aggressive you can be into the greens.

When it comes to playing in any weather conditions, the key is to keep your eyes open and react to the changing situation in the sky and on the ground.

Having a bit of grit helps too. Even the pros prefer the sunshine over the rain, but they all get on with the job. You should try and do the same in the knowledge it puts you so far ahead of so many others out there. Or, if it’s particularly wet, amateur golfers - unlike caddies - do always have the option of retreating to the clubhouse.

Dean Bailey

Time to change

Why are male and female golfers still so divided?

The discussions around the separation of men’s and women’s golf have caught my ear more than any others recently – whether it’s changing the President’s Cup format to mixed teams, or maybe it was while compiling the tee sheet for this year’s Champion of Champions, where all three events took place simultaneously over one course?

That this format in particular, where two or even three events take place simultaneously, hasn’t become mainstream by 2022 baffles me. It has proved successful at the handful of North East clubs which I know use it, and at events such as the English Amateur.

As we continue to strive for greater equality, why is it that men and women are still not allowed to compete at the same time on the golf course?

The World Handicap System and tee

booking software make this a doddle, yet so many clubs appear to have no interest in opening tee times to whomever wishes to take them.

The idea that men play on a Saturday and women have a midweek day should have passed into legend years ago. The way people study, work and organise their lives doesn’t fit into that system. Instead, golf clubs need to ensure they deliver equal playing opportunities to everyone.

At one of the clubs I know runs all of its competitions for men and women, in same sex groups or mixed, the concept is an important part of the experience for many female members. They are able to play when they want and while the competitions share the same names, each has a male and female winner, and everyone manages to get on with it without any fuss. Imagine that?

Club golf is supposed to be enjoyable. If

you’re a man who wants to play golf with your wife on a weekend morning, why should anyone stop you? Why should a woman who works five days a week be told she cannot play competitively on a Saturday when the course is setup for a competition? If a man has some free time on a Tuesday, why shouldn’t he be able to roll up to the tee, join a two-ball of female members and play a competitive round too?

Those who want to play in all-male or all-female groups can of course continue to do so, but golf needs to move forward and this is a really simple step in the right direction.

Our sport is one of the only ones which allows players of all abilities, ages and genders to play alongside one another using a handicap system and different starting positions. Let’s utilise that and behave like it’s 2022.

Three new champions crowned

Hexham’s Morgan Blythe, Whickham’s Faye Wheatley and Woodham’s Tony Tomlin win Northern Golfer Champion of Champions trophies at Longhirst Hall

As the curtain fell on the 2022 season, three players added their names to the region’s golfing history books with victories in the Northern Golfer Champion of Champions events.

The tournaments - for men, women and juniors – were staged together on the Dawson Course at Longhirst Hall for the first time, bringing together club champions from across Northumberland, Durham, Teesside and North Yorkshire.

In the junior event, Hexham Golf Club’s Morgan Blythe added to his success in his final year in the junior ranks – posting a two under-par round of 71 on the Dawson Course to lead the field by six shots. His round - which included three birdies and a single bogey - was played in the worst of the day’s conditions, including strong winds and short spells of extremely heavy rain.

Morgan, who reached the final four in the The R&A Boys Amateur Championship earlier this season and won the Northumberland 72-hole Strokeplay Championship, said: “To win my last-ever event as a junior is a great feeling. It’s the perfect way to cap off my junior career.

“It was tough out there at times when the rain came and the wind got up. Through all of that, my golf was boring… in a good way. I found a lot of fairways and stayed in position. While I didn’t make too many putts, I knew I was in a good spot at a couple underpar on such a difficult day for scoring.

“This win gives me another big boost going into my first full year in the men’s ranks in 2023. Following a couple of years of consistent hard work, I’ve got another full winter schedule already mapped out with my coach, Andy Paisley, and the aim is to get fitter and stronger as I step up.

“To get some wins and see good results after working hard is a great feeling, and I’m hoping to do that again next year.”

In the Ladies Champion of Champions, Faye added her name to the trophy for a second time, following up her victory in 2019 at Ramside Hall with an equally emphatic performance this year – shooting a one under-par round of 72 to top the leaderboard by eight shots.

Faye, who will be heading to Abu Dhabi in just a few weeks to defend her Faldo Series Europe Grand Final title, said: “I’m so proud to be a two-time champion of champions.

“The round had a few highs and lows. I had a bit of a bumpy start with a double bogey early, but I fought on and managed to make four birdies in a row on holes 13-16, which was definitely the highlight of the round. I played nicely all day though, even in the worst of the rain, and I knew I just had to stay cool and keep the ball in play.

“Winning this event again is another big title to add to my

success in the last couple of years, and it gives me another big boost of confidence. I’ve worked hard on my game and gotten stronger since 2019, which has made a big difference, and the work I’ve done with Steven [MCDonnell] on my putting in the last few months was a big part of getting the win.

“Winning close to home is always great. I had my grandad Tony on the bag and my auntie Julie was here with me too – and I know my mam will be putting this on the fridge, right next to the first time I was on the cover for winning this event.”

In the men’s event, Tony Tomlin - from Woodham Golf & Country Club - made the most of an early morning start, posting a three under-par round of 70 in the first group of the day and watching on as no player could match or beat his score.

He said: “While I still can’t quite believe I’ve won with such an elite field out there, I’m over the moon.

“Being first out was a big advantage, though my experience of playing in the wind at Seaton Carew for 18 years certainly helped a lot too. It was still tough out there for us, but we also got the very best of the greens and I rolled in a good number of putts to make my seven birdies. That said, the one I remember

most was a missed one from 2ft on the fifth!

“With my 55th birthday coming up in January, seniors’ golf is just around the corner and I’m very much looking forward to it. While I can obviously still get it around and nearly got to a plus-five handicap this year - which was scary - it’s not easy to compete with the young boys while running my accountancy practice and getting a bit older. I think I’ll leave the 36-hole, one-day events to the young guys and focus on the one-round sprints.”

In the junior event, Wilton’s Alfie Baldwin earned second place with a four over-par round of 77 as Hobson’s Roan Smith finished in third place (81). Morgan collected the nett prize with his round of 71 +5 for 76.

Second place in the ladies’ event went to former champion of champions Rebecca Ferguson from Tynemouth (80) as Hobson’s Stacie Morton took third place (81). Faye also collected the nett prize with her score of 72 +3 for 75.

As Tony led the field for the men, Hexham’s Sean Heads edged out Blackwell Grange’s Adam Rochester for second place on countback as both players posted two under-par rounds of 72. The nett prize was collected by Teesside’s Dan Norman (72 +1 for 73).

Left2022 Junior Champion of Champions winner Morgan Blythe Right - 2022 Ladies Champion of Champions winner Faye Wheatley

© Nicky Gibson (Rogerson), KG Photography

Graham Chambers, Longhirst Hall’s director of golf, said: “Congratulations to Morgan, Faye and Tony on some spectacular scoring on a particularly challenging day weather-wise. We were delighted to have the opportunity to welcome back some of the region’s best golfers following the success of hosting the men’s event in April, and this adds another highlight to our 25th anniversary celebrations and our long-term partnership with Northern Golfer. We very much look forward to welcoming back the champions, and all the players who took part, in the years to come.”

Northern Golfer editor Dean Bailey added: “Congratulations

to our new champions on some fantastic golf in trying conditions. As the event continues to build its place in the region’s golfing calendar, we look forward to welcoming them, and many of the players who took part this year, back to our tournaments in the coming years.

“Following heavy rain the day before the event, the greenkeeping team at Longhirst did an incredible job to present the Dawson Course to the highest standard. Our thanks go to Stephen Smith and his team for all their hard work. I must also say a huge thank you to Pam Tait and the clubhouse team at Longhirst, who are the very best at what they do and ensured the event went

smoothly from 7am right through to 7pm. A special thank you must also go to Billy Kingsland for his support in organising the event and in running the scoring, his support was once again invaluable.

“As well as the team at Longhirst, special thanks must also go to the players, caddies, parents, supporters and friends who made the trip to Longhirst. Without them, we wouldn’t get to host these tournaments and some travel several hours to be part of the event. I look forward to seeing lots of you back again next season.”

The Northern Golfer Champion of Champions events will return in 2023 and we’ll be announcing the details in the new year.

For the full results from this year’s three Northern Golfer Champion of Champions events, including all the nett scores, go to golfgenius.com and login using the GGID –GGMRBU

2022 Men’s Champion of Champions winner Tony Tomlin

“While I still can’t quite believe I’ve won with such an elite field out there, I’m over the moon”

Challenge complete

After two years and eight months, thousands of miles, and 100 rounds of golf on the UK and Ireland’s best courses, Alistair Collin has completed his Top 100 Heart Challenge

After 955 days; 18,000 miles by car, motorhome and ferry; 600-plus miles on foot; plenty of aches, pains and tears, Alistair Collin has completed his Top 100 Heart Challenge and raised more than £30,000 for the British Heart Foundation.

The challenge took him to every corner of the UK & Ireland, taking in spectacular courses on the Scottish islands, courses laid out over common ground in the south east of England and Wales, Ryder Cup and Open Championship host venues, and everything in between.

The courses included 50 English layouts, 24 courses in Scotland, 22 courses in Ireland and four in Wales. Furthest north from Alistair’s home was Royal Dornoch - 323 miles away. Trevose was the furthest south - 463 miles away, while Tralee was 535 miles to the west. In playing all of the courses from the white tees, Alistair hit the ball more than 375 miles.

Having teed off in January 2020 at his home club, Close House, he was delayed by Covid lockdowns and had to switch his plans on several occasions - not least to incorporate travelling in a motorhome, but while his route

has been tricky and featured many ups and downs - from a wedding morning round and crossing paths with goats and cows to a few challenges in securing tee times at the most exclusive clubs, it has been the trip of a lifetime and given Alistair the chance to meet some incredible people along the way...

Why did you set out on the challenge?

After major heart surgery in 2013 and suffering a subsequent heart attack in 2014, I wanted to support the work of the British Heart Foundation. I had no idea what to do, but after discussing the world top 100 while I was a volunteer at the 2019 Solheim Cup, I thought the Golf Monthly UK & Ireland Top 100 was a big challenge to take on and would raise some money. From there, it was just a case of getting started, not planning more than a few weeks ahead in case my health became an issue, and seeing how it went.

When and where was your first round?

Having got some kit with BHF logos on, including my golf bag, which just managed to

make it, and three dozen golf balls - a wishful guess at how many I would lose - I started on January 6, 2020 on the Colt Course at Close House with aim of completing the challenge by my 60th birthday in November 2021.

Which course was your 100th?

The plan was always to finish on the number one-ranked course, Turnberry. It was really special to play with Matthew Naylor (my coach), James Lusk and Iain McNab (Turnberry’s head pro) and a few friends and family also made it out to the 18th green to see me finish, which made for an incredibly emotional end to the challenge.

Which course was your favourite?

It’s impossible to pick one as there’s so much variety. The common ground courses like Royal North Devon and Pennard are special, but they can’t be easily compared to venues like Adare Manor or Muirfield. That makes the Top 100 such a special collection. If I had to pick one, it would be Old Head as the setting on the peninsula is truly incredible.

And your favourite hole?

Simply because of the shot I hit, it has to be the 16th at Kingsbarns. I hit a three iron into the middle of the green in a strong wind and while I remember lots of moments from the challenge, that’s the one I like most.

What was your best score?

I had a few very good rounds. I shot four over-par at Royal Portrush with three double bogeys, which was fantastic; had another four over-par round at Kingsbarns in the wind after being one over-par through 16; and shot a five over-par round at the spectacular Old Head. That’s quite the trio of courses to have your best scores on!

Where had the best view?

The seaside views on the links courses are some of the most memorable. Kingsbarns, Castle Stuart and Nairn really stand out, but looking back to the town from the 18th tee of the Old Course at St Andrews is the one for me. That walk is unlike anything else I experienced in the other 99 rounds.

What about clubhouse experiences?

There are some very memorable clubhouse experiences at places like Castle Stuartwhere I was talking to two strangers and as they left, they handed me two £50 notes for the fund. Visits to the clubhouses at Muirfield, Royal Birkdale, Prestwick and Sunningdale - where I met Tim Henman, Ryan Fox and Shane Warne - were all very special. The artisans’ clubhouse at Swinley Forest is also a very special place for me as having managed to get my round in there, after a few obstacles to make it, that was the point when I knew I was going to be able to finish.

Which was your favourite experience away from the golf courses?

There were lots of those too! Going across to The Machrie on the Isle of Islay by ferry was a great adventure. Visiting Adare Manor was the closest I’ve ever been to the presentation levels and overall experience of Augusta National. It’s a truly five-star experience from the moment you arrive - from the welcome, the lineup of caddies... it’s totally unique.

What refreshments kept you going?

A few stand out - A shovril (sherry and Bovril) at Royal St George’s; a hillbilly (Angostura bitters, grapefruit juice and lemonade) at West Sussex; and my first-ever Pimms at St George’s Hill following my third round in three days in 35C weather.

We’ve talked about all the good days, but were there any embarrassing moments?

Losing my wallet at St Enodoc and cancelling my bank card before finding it in my golf bag minutes later was embarrassing, as was my trip into the bracken at Walton Heath following a rushed lunch on a 36-hole day.

What have been some of the challenges along the way?

There were a few. Thinking of my Top 100 challenge in isolation as there was far more going on in the world, as we all experienced, not knowing what would happen during the first Covid lockdown was tough. I had played 11 courses before the first one and had no idea how I’d get it done. That said, as I suffer

#1

Colt Course

Close House

Command Centre

Alistair with Canadian couple

Command Centre on the ferry

Isle

Pennard

from chronic fatigue, the two extended breaks did help me recover somewhat. Following the first lockdown, I purchased a motorhome - AKA the command centre - and while I bought it just to be able to get back on the road, I actually had a lot of fun in it. Going across to Ireland on the ferry was a blast and travelling right across the UK in it was great - though I was careful where I parked it at a few of the clubs.

Which was the toughest course to play?

It has to be Carnoustie - it really chewed me up and spat me out! The weather also made some courses very tough. Playing in four club winds at Ballybunion and Tralee was very difficult, and the 35C heat at Woking, Worplesdon and West Hill on consecutive days was very difficult physically.

Which was the hardest course to get onto?

A couple were more difficult than the rest as they’re very exclusive - Swinley Forest and

Rye in particular. Having to do the majority of the challenge in the motorhome, going across to Ireland was always going to be complicated. Once I’d worked out how I was going to do that, without fail the people and clubs were all fantastic to deal with and so welcoming during that sevenweek run.

What’s been the biggest surprise while doing this?

The way people responded to what I was doing and helped me has been the biggest surprise. The number of people who I met at one club that then went out of their way to help me arrange a visit to another was amazing. I also got a lot of support from the Golf Visitor Invite UK group on Facebook; from my friend Kyle, a caddie at Royal Dornoch, who I met at the Solheim Cup in 2019; Neil from the Fernhill Artisans Golf Club which plays over Swinley Forest, who made my experience there one of the highlights of the whole challenge and helped me get one of the toughest courses to tick off the

list in the time I wanted to... there are so many stories just like those of purely random kindness. The donations from strangers who had seen my name and the British Heart Foundation on the tee sheet or chatted to me in the car park also stands out. The generosity of my hosts at clubs all across the UK and Ireland too - whether they were members or the clubs themselves. Overall, I suppose it was simply the warmth of people that was so incredible and it was heartwarming to meet so many people who would go out of their way to help. Add to that the unwavering support of my friends and family, and the people who helped make this possible will stay with me forever.

In what ways did people support your fundraising?

There have been so many stories of unbelievable generosity. During the two big lockdowns, I ran 42 online quizzes for friends and family to keep the fund ticking along. Once we were able to play golf again, I hosted a series of golf days at Close House – including

the club’s first post-lockdown event. I’ve also auctioned signed Premier League football strips and fourball vouchers, and even sold homemade jam. Add in all the individuals who have donated online and in person, and I can’t thank all the people who have donated enough.

You met and played with hundreds of people along the way, who stands out?

There are far too many stories for one day, but one which stands out was meeting a couple of retired Canadian doctors at Mount Juliet. They were getting married that afternoon - she played nine and he played 18 - and their wedding rings were made from gold from their claim on the Yukon River. A wonderful and bizarre story, and one that I’ll always remember.

What’s your advice to someone following in your footsteps? Don’t underestimate the logistical and physical challenge of playing this much golf in a short space of time. From there, take in the whole experience. I started out

the 14th tee at St. David’s, Harlech,

starter’s

at Royal St George’s

thinking this was about the golf, but I couldn’t have been more wrong. It’s about the people you meet along the way - your playing partners, those who help you arrange games, those who hand you cash having overheard your conversation in the pro shop, those who send you messages of support on social media having never met you in person... that’s what makes this such a special experience.

What have you learned about yourself during the challenge?

That I’m more resilient than I thought, both mentally and physically. It’s amazing how having a purpose keeps you going. My golf game also stood up better than I thought it would.

When you holed your last putt, what did it feel like?

It was on the 18th green at Turnberry, and it was for James and I to win our match against the professionals. Thinking about it still makes me emotional as having all those people and experiences running through your mind as it comes to a very clear end is impossible to put into words.

If you could play one course for the rest of your life, which one would you choose?

An impossible question! I’ll have to divide my time between Liphook, Sunningdale, Kingsbarns and Close House.

Would you do this again?

In a heartbeat. To focus so much time and effort on playing the best courses in the UK & Ireland is a real privilege, though my wife may have other plans first. It’s one of the most positive experiences of my life and to enjoy it so much while raising £30,000 has been incredible.

What’s next?

The latest rankings feature two new additions - Prince’s and Remedy Oak - so i’d like to tick those off the list. After that, having spent 180 nights away while doing this, I think I better spend some more time off the course in the next few years.

If you’ve been inspired by Alistair’s Challenge and would like make a donation to the BHF, visit www. justgiving.com/fundraising/ alistaircollintop100challenge

Trump Turnberry – Ailsa

Andrews

Muirfield

Old Course

Royal County Down

Carnoustie

Royal Birkdale

Royal Dornoch

Royal Portrush

Walton Heath – New

West Sussex

County Louth – Baltray

Royal West Norfolk

Gleneagles – Queens

Machrihanish

Dunluce

New

Trump Aberdeen

Sunningdale

Old

Royal Lytham & St Annes

St George's

Royal Liverpool

Kingsbarns

Royal Aberdeen

Royal Troon

European Club

Castle Stuart

Royal Cinque Ports

The Berkshire – Blue

Southport & Ainsdale

Gullane – No 1

Hunstanton

Moortown

Worplesdon

St Andrews – New

Liphook GC

Old

Woodhall Spa – Hotchkin

Waterville

Ballybunion

Old

Royal Porthcawl

St George's Hill

Adare Manor

Portmarnock

Walton Heath – Old

Ganton

North Berwick

Blairgowrie – Rosemount

Ballyliffen – Glashedy

Woburn – Marquess

Saunton – West

Cruden Bay

Aberdovey

West Hill

Aldeburgh

The Island

Trevose – Championship

Druids Glen

Parkstone

West Links

Burnham & Berrow

Old Head

Lahinch

Hankley Common

Hillside

Trump Doonbeg

Notts – Hollinwell

Gleneagles

Nairn

Kings

Swinley Forest

St Enodoc – Church

Formby

Prestwick

Berkshire – Red

Rosapenna – Sandy Hills

Saunton

East

Royal St David's

Silloth on Solway

Tralee

Western Gailes

Alwoodley

West Lancashire

Woking

Mount Juliet

Royal North Devon

Sherwood Forest

St Andrews – Castle

The Grove

Woburn – Dukes

The Belfry

Ferndown – Old

County Sligo – Rosses Point

The Machrie

Erne

Faldo

Woburn – Duchess

Enniscrone

House

Tandridge

Magnificent Matfen Hall

Dean Bailey returns to Matfen Hall in the heart of Northumberland, and tackles one of the county’s finest modern courses

Since it opened for play in 1995, the golf course at Matfen Hall has undergone great transformation - not least in recent years following the resort being purchased by the Walwick Estate Group in 2020.

A programme of investment across the business has followed - including a multi-millionpound renovation of the hotel and increased funding on the golf course across its agronomy, machinery and staffing.

Having opened more than 25 years ago, today Matfen is home to three loops of nine - Douglas, Standing Stone and Dewlaw. On our visit we played the first two, though we highly recommend adding a further nine on the Dewlaw - which opened in 2007 - as its natural water hazards, woodland setting, modern design aesthetic and two brilliant par threes add a great deal to Matfen’s offering.

The opening par five on the Douglas loop is as welcoming as they come. At 463 yards from the white tees, its wide fairway invites players to hit driver. From here, be wary of the ha-ha wall, which splits the fairway some 120 yards from the front of the green. Here you’ll find a single bunker on the right side, which must be avoided.

Another inviting tee shot awaits at the short par four second and you’ll want to leave as short a shot in as possible here as the bunkerless green sits beyond a steep drop and is one of the smallest at Matfen Hall.

A pair of demanding par fours follow. The third

is 90 yards shorter, but you must play close to the trees on the right to leave an unobstructed view of the green - which is guarded by a huge tree on the front left corner and two bunkers on its right side. At the fourth, a trio of fairway bunkers on the left are well positioned to catch tee shots of around 250 yards. From here, a long approach must navigate between two bunkers, including an especially large one on the right side.

At just over 200 yards, the fifth plays even longer up the hill and while there is trouble short - a cross bunker and two more greenside trapsthe putting surface is generous and the back slope tends to catch well-struck shots.

At 547 yards, the sixth is a true three-shotter. The fairway is wide and features no hazards. A welcoming approach should also be no trouble, just be sure to stay back of the bunkers some 60 yards short of the green, which is wrapped around a single bunker on it’s left side, with two more waiting on the right to catch out those who guard against a trip to the left one.

The Douglas loop reaches its crescendo with a trio of holes set around the lake.

At the 345-yard seventh, the drive over the lake is simple, though avoiding the trees on the left and trio of bunkers on the right is a far more difficult prospect. From here, a short approach must make the carry up to the green, which is ringed by bunkers - the one at the front edge is a particularly popular spot.

A tricky, 163-yard par three follows with the

lake on the right side of the green this time. This one plays longer into the prevailing wind and there are two bunkers on the left side waiting to grab any balls which head too far away from the water.

The final hole of the Douglas nine, and the most difficult, the ninth can be stretched to more than 420 yards and your tee shot must navigate between a long ribbon of sand on the left side and the lake on the right. Those who play too far away from the lake can be blocked out by the trees on the left side for their second shot, which must make a long carry to a well-bunkered green.

In our experience, the Standing Stone loop is the most difficult of the three at Matfen Hall with the River Pont playing a big role throughout.

The shortest of the par threes, the opening hole of this nine is played to a huge green with two front bunkers, just be careful not to be caught out by the river on the left side.

At the slight right-to-left dogleg second, an accurate tee shot is required between the trees. A ha-ha wall guards the route to the putting surface, meaning players must carry the ball up to this wide green with a semi-circle of bunkers around its front edge.

The long par four third, which is more than 440 yards, can be a particularly tough driving hole with fairway bunkers on both sides of the dogleg. The space between the traps is more generous than it appears from the tee, as is the entrance to the green between two more bunkers.

A downhill par five which is under 500 yards,

long drivers can make birdies at the fourth hole. The sloping fairway invites booming drives and from here, you may wish to take on the carry over another ha-ha wall - though leaving yourself an 80-yard pitch to a wide, shallow green with a trio of front bunkers often yields a better chance of a four at this one.

Having laid up at the last, you may be faced with another short pitch to the green at the 438-yard par four fifth hole. The toughest hole at Matfen in our experience, a long drive avoiding sand on the left is followed by an equally long approach over a stream to a vast green, some 35 yards from front to back. Play these two holes in nine and you’ve done well.

The Pont again crosses in front of the green at the sixth, though a shorter approach with a short or mid iron, is far more inviting. A back bunker is placed to catch those who take far too much club to clear the water.

A true three-shotter, the 494-yard seventh hole is a spectacular sight. Having played right of the trees and short of the bunker on the far side of the dogleg, you get a great view up to the green, which sits atop a hill strewn with bunkers, It’s a shallow landing place and a well-controlled wedge up the hill is required to leave a makeable putt.

The signature hole - a demanding par three over water - follows (see fact file).

The River Pont is once again in play on the final hole of our visit - this time to the left side of the ninth fairway. At 324 yards, be careful with the line of your tee shot - you want to ensure you find the fairway and don’t run out of room on the right, just don’t go too far left and risk a trip into the river. From here, a simple approach beyond a pair of front bunkers is all that remains between you and a closing birdie.

FACT FILE CONTACT

Matfen Hall, Matfen, Northumberland

NE20 0RH, tel 01661 886 400 www.matfenhall.com

GREEN FEES

For tee bookings visit matfenhall.com/golf/#book-a-tee

For groups and other enquiries, please call 01661 886 400

TOTAL DISTANCE

Douglas

White tees – 3,218 yards Par 36

Yellow tees – 3,072 yards Par 36 Red tees – 2,741 yards Par 36

Standing Stone

White tees – 3,207 yards Par 36 Yellow tees – 3,124 yards Par 36 Red tees – 2,822 yards Par 37

Dewlaw

White tees – 3,174 yards Par 36

Yellow tees – 3,033 yards Par 36 Red tees – 2,760 yards Par 37

FEATURES

10-bay floodlit driving range

Nine-hole par three course

Putting green Pro shop

Excellent food and drink Buggy and trolley hire

CADDY’S TIP

Don’t mess with the river, lake, trees or walls - they’ve all been around a lot longer than you have

SIGNATURE HOLE

The eighth hole on the Standing Stone loop is a demanding 191yard par three. The green is set at a 45-degree angle to the tee, with back flags some 30 yards further away than front ones. The fastflowing River Pont runs past the left side of the green, forcing players to make a demanding carry late in the round. For those who make it across the perilous waters, the putting surface slopes from left to right and can be tough to read correctly

Located in the heart of the Northumberland countryside, Matfen Hall offers unrivalled tranquillity. As well as its 27 holes of golf, Matfen is home to a multiple award-winning hotel with stunning dining options as well as a relaxing spa and state-of-theart gym. Here you’ll also find a fun nine-hole par three course and the Golf Academy, where three of the region’s best coaches – John Harrison, JJ Vallely and Tom Robson – work with some of the area’s best professionals and amateurs

OUR VERDICT

A mature English parkland course set in the Northumberland countryside with first-class facilities and a stunning hotel - what more could you ask for?

Winter warmers

This month’s gear releases are headlined by autumn/winter clothing collections from PING and Chervo. We’ve also got major-winning drivers from Titleist, a new iron series from Mizuno, putters from PING and Scotty Cameron, and shoes from ECCO.

IN STYLE

PING AW22 MEN’S AND WOMEN’S COLLECTIONS

RRP: VARIOUS EU.PING.COM

PING’s new autumn-winter clothing range aims to push the boundaries and showcase the possibilities of golf apparel engineering through the use of modern technologies and materials, including Graphene.

Comprised of a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, Graphene is the lightest, strongest and toughest material ever discovered. In the SensorDry 2.5 Graphene Waterproof suit and Elemental Polo, PING has incorporated a Graphene print to the inside of the fabric, which helps conduct and retain heat.

The men’s range also features more waterproof garments in striking colour options as well as updated Norse series jackets and vests, polos, and accessories.

Meanwhile, the new women’s range is PING’s largest ever. The performance-driven apparel options are divided into two standout design stories: Mineral Print which takes inspiration from nature, small scale geological textures, marbling and mineral markings; and Abstract Camo, a print that follows a similar direction towards the great outdoors and winter golf landscapes. The collection is led by two new waterproof jackets and also features garments with PrimaLoft and SensorWarm technologies.

NEXT LEVEL CUSTOMISATION

The series

been developed

fitting programme to help all golfers get the most from their game, from elite tour players to slow-swinging amateurs. The family features five models created from three metals and developed using Swing DNA data from more than 350,000 golfers. The expanded head options combine with more than 50 shaft options to match trajectory, ball speed and ease of use to each player.

The series includes the JPX923 Tour, featuring a new V-Chassis and thinner topline; JPX923 Forged, which showcases Mizuno’s third generation of Chromoly Forging; and JPX923 Hot Metal, Hot Metal Pro and Hot Metal HL - all featuring new, faster 4335 Nickel Chromoly which is 35% stronger than Mizuno’s original Chromoly.

MAJOR PEDIGREE

TSR drivers

Following its first major victory at the Open Championship, the Titleist TSR driver is now available in pro shops.

The TSR is the next generation of the Titleist Speed Project, which began six years ago with the TS series and was followed by the TSi line.

Each of the three models - the TSR2, TSR3 and TSR4provide distinct options. The TSR2 offers a combination of speed and stability, while the TSR3 provides speed and distance through precision tuning technologies such as SureFit Adjustable CG Track weighting. The TSR4’s adjustable weighting system allows for more control over spin conditions.

The driver launch was accompanied by a new range of TSR fairway woods, which have been engineered to improve on the brand’s performance across the four Fs - flight, feel, form and forgiveness.

10 OUT OF 10 PING 2022 putter models

RRP: £280

PING has introduced 10 new putter models, each designed to achieve the proper balance of feel and forgiveness in a confidence-inspiring look using various combinations of the company’s proven technologies.

The 10 models consist of high moment of inertia blades and ultra-forgiving multi-material mid-mallets and mallets.

Rather than applying one common technology to every model, engineers applied proven innovations to different head styles to improve performance.

Traditional blades include the Anser and Kushin 4 headshapes, and the new Anser 2D design. Meanwhile, the new Mundy design is a multi-material mallet and the tour-proven DS72 and Prime Tyne 4 return with new looks, while the Tyne G - a hybrid of the original Tyne and popular Fetch designs - adds to the mallet offering.

NATURAL LOOK Chervò AW 22/23 collection

RRP: Various fw.chervo.com

Chervò’s autumn-winter collection takes inspiration from the flora of the Amazon Rainforest and the resilient wildlife of the Himalayan Mountains with distinctive colours, shapes and patterns across the new range.

Combining the latest in aqua-block, stretch, wind-lock and pro-therm fabric technology, three new lines - Snow Leopard, Marmorized Saxum and Golf Vibes - offer sweaters, waterproof jackets, gilets and more. Each of the lines brings together Chervo’s unique style with the technical requirements of playing golf in autumn and winter conditions across the globe.

NEXT LEVEL

ECCO BIOM G5 shoes

ALL IN ONE

Cameron

putters

Scotty Cameron has released details of the MONOBLOK 6 and MONOBLOK 6.5 putters.

Made in a limited run, the rounded mallets are reminiscent of Scotty’s GOLO designs while offering a new head size in two neck and shaft configurations. The line’s name is derived from Scotty’s tradition of milling putters from solid 303 stainless steel.

Both putters feature a machined bevel design, a misted antiglare stainless steel finish accented in translucent cherry red and asphalt grey paint, and a Pistolero Plus grip.

Each MONOBLOK putter also incorporates customisable stainless steel sole weights as well as an aluminium sole plate designed to optimise weight distribution by shifting weight to the perimeter of the head for improved balance, stability and forgiveness.

£210 (standard), £220 (BOA)

ECCO GOLF has unveiled the next generation in its BIOM collection with the launch of the G5 shoe.

The new model utilises a wide range of industry-leading technologies to deliver advanced, athletic performance in a premium, progressive and sporty design. These include Gore-Tex construction that offers 100% waterproofing, Zarma-Tour spikes to offer year-round traction and stability, and the BIOM Natural Motion last offering additional support and superior control while enabling the foot to move naturally while walking.

Made from ECCO Performance Leather and a sporty mesh, the shoes come with a choice of laces or the BOA Fit system, while a custom version created by ECCO ambassador Lydia Ko features hibiscus flowers and silver ferns to pay homage to her country of birth, South Korea, and the country in which she grew up, New Zealand, respectively.

There’s no escaping goddess of golf

Aphrodite Hills

An iconic Mediterranean Escape Nestled in the midst of a protected landscape and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the award-winning 5-star Aphrodite Hills Resort is located on two plateaux.

This idyllic and fully integrated Resort o ers a diverse range of first-class facilities, including stunning accommodation at the 5-star Aphrodite Hills Hotel by Atlantica; an impressive selection of Holiday Apartments & Villas from Aphrodite Hills Holiday Residences; world-class sports facilities; a variety of dining, relaxation and entertainment options.

Bellingham Golf Club

Northumberland’s golfers are blessed with variety. From rugged coastal links to the manicured parkland courses close to the River Tyne, the county is home to something to suit every golfing need. For those in search of stunning scenery high in the hills, there are few better options than Bellingham Golf Club.

Set in the Northumberland National Park in the North Tyne Valley, Bellingham offers some of the best golfing views in Northumberland. Founded in 1893, the club is proud of its reputation as a friendly and welcoming place to play golf. The par 70 course has stunning views over the Northumbrian countryside and a mix of challenging holes –particularly on the back nine, where you’ll also find the signature par four 12th, Dormouse, one of the best short par fours in the region.

The staff at Bellingham are proud of their club and their pride shines through in the service and care shown to members, guests and visitors alike. Bellingham Golf Club, Boggle Hole, Bellingham NE48 2DT, tel 01434 220 530, www,bellinghamgolfclub.com

Riverdale Hall Country House Hotel

Bellingham Golf Club has close ties to the Riverdale Hall Country House Hotel, which means societies get a great deal on stay and play

For those travelling to Northumberland, or playing along the Tyne Valley, a stay at the Riverdale Hall Hotel is highly recommended. The relaxed feel and hearty breakfast are perfect for those returning from a day on the course, or raring to get out there.

Hall Hotel, Bellingham, NE48 2JT, tel 01434 220 254 www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk

SPECIALFOCUS

Lundin Golf Club

With noted architects including Old Tom Morris and James Braid, the course at Lundin, which was formed in 1868, remains one of Scotland’s finest links with spectacular views across the Firth of Forth.

The course remains largely as it was some 100 years ago. The first five holes are in classic links tradition proceeding to the Mile Dyke. Players then cross the now extinct railway line and play the, relatively, newer James Braid-designed nine holes before returning back across the railway to the pure linksland. Though it is not long by modern standards, Lundin remains a thorough test of golfing skills, as seen during its turns as a Final Qualifying venue for the Open Championship.

A number of hotels and guest houses across Fife cater specifically for golfers, and Lundin makes a perfect day out as part of a short break in the region. Lundin Golf Club, 9 Golf Road, Lundin Links Fife, KY8 6BA, tel 01333 320 202, www.lundingolfclub.co.uk

Golf Escapes

For those in search of their next weekend away in the UK and Ireland, or some much needed sunshine and golf a little further afield, Golf Escapes offers a wide range of tailored golfing holidays for people and groups of all golfing abilities. Celebrating it’s 20th anniversary, Golf Escapes continues to offer the very best in value and service with a wide range of destinations on offer, including the best golfing resorts in Spain, Portugal, France, Italy and across Europe; some deals closer to home in the UK & Ireland; and long-haul options including South Africa, Mauritius, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The Golf Escapes team pride themselves on first-hand experience and inside knowledge – ensuring they provide the very best golfing getaways time after time. For those looking for some winter golf in the sun or early booking discount for your 2023 group, the team are ready to help. All this and much more can be found on the new website, www.golf-escapes.com, then get in touch on 01342 811 777 or send an enquiry to info@golf-escapes. com and the team of platinum-accredited experts will be more than happy to help you on your way.

Ramside Hall

Situated on the outskirts of Durham City – with easy access to the A1, A19 and A690 – the two golf courses at Ramside Hall sit in 350 acres of beautiful grounds. Both the Cathedral and Prince Bishops’ courses offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with Durham Cathedral in the distance, and provide an unrivalled golfing experience. The courses offer great variety and can be combined into a memorable two-day visit. Meanwhile, Ramside offers everything you need to relax off the golf course – from the 16-bay, floodlit driving range with Toptracer technology to stunning accommodation in the hotel or magnificent treehouses; first-class dining in the restaurants; and luxurious relaxation in the award-winning spa. A wide range of golf breaks are available including food and accommodation as well as the option to make use of the spa. For more information and to book, visit the website. Ramside Hall, Carrville, Durham, DH1 1TD tel 0191 3869 514, www.ramsidehallhotel.co.uk

Northumbria Golf Breaks

Looking to travel further afield for your next golf break? Northumbria Golf Breaks is based in the North East and has more than 20 years’ experience in creating holiday packages for golfers. The team at Northumbria Golf Breaks are experts on the resorts, hotels and courses they work with, while their golfing knowledge ensures each package is tailored to your group – whether a small family trip or a big society holiday. Northumbria Golf Breaks is a member of the International Association of Golf Tour Operators and holds an ATOL license, meaning you can book your next trip with total peace of mind. As well as building packages to suit all kinds of golfing groups, the team also hosts two Mixed Competition Weeks every year, in the spring and autumn, visit www.golfnorthumbria.com/competitionweeks for details on the 2023 events. www.golfnorthumbria.com

MIXED

George Washington Hotel, Golf and Spa

the heart of

the back

Opened in

the treelined

and tougher still to play,

ARE YOU FIT FOR GOLF?

There is a big difference between what training for golf looks like on the internet and what it should look like for the vast majority of golfers.

Jon Rahm smashing heavy deadlifts or Rory McIlroy squatting almost double his bodyweight may be what we see on social media, but this isn’t what most club golfers should be doing… at least not straight away!

What we don’t see on social media is the preparation that leads up to being able to do these things in the gym.

For club golfers, and top professionals, injury prevention is a top priority so they can play more golf, to a better standard, for longer.

Rory started training because of back pain, so putting loads of weight on his shoulders and squatting didn’t happen straight away. When Bryson DeChambeau spent 18 months preparing his body for his size and strength

gains, he too started to work specifically on reducing back pain. Both of these players, like all top athletes, have done the groundwork first in order to safely gain strength and build speed to ultimately increase driving distance and improve their scoring.

Back, neck, knee and elbow pain are so often down to what your body can do, or rather, what it can’t do. That may also be the cause of struggling to create a new position with your swing coach.

If you’re considering training to help your golf in any way, it’s vital you are assessed by a professional in order to address your individual needs effectively and safely. From there, creating a programme to move better and build strength both reduces the risk of injury and sets you on the right track to improve your golf game.

IN POSITION

Starting positions in golf are fundamental to producing consistent shots. The position you set yourself in when putting is arguably the most important one in the game given the number of shots we hit with the putter each round and the few inches the stroke takes place over, which leaves little time for adjustment.

Finding a routine which allows you to repeat your setup position is really important. When

practising, use an alignment stick to ensure your feet position is consistent, while using a putting mirror is a great way to dial in your eye position each time.

Having created a repeatable setup, it’s far easier to calibrate the speed of your putts round to round, and work on things such as how you aim the putter to start the ball on your target line.

Doug BrollsPGA professional

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 5b, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7AL

Please include your contact details and telephone number. Closing date Thursday October 27, 2022. Usual competition rules apply – available on request. Winners will be published in our next edition.

WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT GARESFIELD GOLF CLUB

Celebrating its centenary in 2022, Garesfield Golf Club is home to one of our region’s most picturesque golf courses. Set between the Tyne Valley and the North Pennines around six miles west of Gateshead, the course is laid out across sweeping undulations and heads down into a valley before returning up the hill. The fairways are bordered by ancient trees, many of them creating narrow landing areas and even narrower approaches.

For your chance to win answer the following question: How many points did Jordan Spieth earn in the 2022 President’s Cup?

WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT HEWORTH GOLF CLUB

The golf course at Heworth Golf Club remains a fine test, with the 6,498-yard layout featuring a number of challenging tee shots and tricky approaches. Tree-lined holes and deceptive bunkering ensure Heworth remains a complete test of golfing skill.

For your chance to win answer the following question: Who will captain the 2023 European Solheim Cup team?

WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT NEWCASTLE UNITED GOLF CLUB

With more than 125 years under its belt, Newcastle United has a fascinating place in the region’s golfing history. Now on Nuns Moor to the north west of the city, today’s course is an exacting test of ball control from the tee and into the greens.

For your chance to win answer the following question: In which year did Danny Willett win The Masters?

Congratulations to last month’s competition winners: Rothbury - Peter Denham of Ponteland Linden Hall - Gillian Mcdonald of Blaydon • Ramside Hall - Richard Sayer of Longhorsley

bunker from the

Congratulations to Castle Eden’s Les Bainbridge, who recently won a major event at his home club with a gross score lower than his age.

Les, 84, beat his age by a single shot en-route to winning the AP Gray stableford competition with 43 points. A former club captain, Les has been a member of Castle Eden for 54 years and his round included a birdie at the seventh along with a two at the par three 11th.

Having shone the spotlight on PGA professional Aaron Cox on the cover of our September edition, the attention turned back to the junior golfers at Blackwell Grange for The Darlington BM Championship on the academy course.

The first round saw the girls take the lead - Sadie W and Isobel S posting nett scores of 14. The second round saw many highlights, including Olivia H scoring a hole-in-one on the fourth hole as Isobel played brilliantly and put together a score of 16 and a 10 under-par total. However, Sadie just edged ahead with a score of 15 to win by one shot. The Blackwell Playoffs take place in October with seven players within 100 points of the lead.

A correction to the story on pages 4 and 5 of the September edition, which looked ahead to the Champion of Champions events. We incorrectly wrote that Neve Pearson was the junior club champion at Boldon Golf Club when she was in fact the ladies silver club champion. The junior club championship was won by Luke Tate, who has since headed across the Atlantic to begin a golf scholarship at Bethany Swedes College in Kansas, where he is studying for a degree in Sports Science and Coaching. Our apologies for the error, and best of luck to Luke in his first season in the US.

The Linden Tree Pub at Macdonald Linden Hall Hotel, Golf & Country Club has a new look and a new menu.

The perfect place to unwind after a round, the pub’s new look takes inspiration from its picturesque surroundings in rural Northumberland with a warm, welcoming atmosphere for golfers, diners and hotel guests. The new menu offers small plates alongside hearty mains, including The Linden Burger – perfect after an autumn round.

Congratulations to Blyth’s Keith Woodrow on winning the low handicap division of the Five-Day Open at Nairn Dunbar Golf Club.

George Washington’s captain’s day raised more than £8,500 for St Benedict’s Hospice in memory of Walter Whitfield.

Walter was appointed captain of the club for 2022, but sadly passed away following a short illness in January. This year’s captain’s day saw more than 120 players compete for the trophy and come together to celebrate Walter’s life and passion for the golf club.

As part of the event, a car was on offer for a hole-in-one at the ninth – where junior team player Josh Hancill made an ace and collected the keys from sponsor Lookers.

Meanwhile, the men’s team have had a strong year while remembering Walter, winning promotion from the third division of the North Durham League and earning a place in the final stages of the Inter-County Foursomes, which comes to its conclusion in October.

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!

Les Bainbridge

Luke Tate