Northern Golfer magazine #42 - April 2016 by Offstone Publishing

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AT GOLF CLUBS IN THE NORTH EAST AND YORKSHIRE - ISSUE

NORTHERN

APRIL 2016

INSIDE

64 PAGES

OF GOLF FACES, PLACES AND ACES northerngolfer.co.uk

REVIEWED

BACKWORTH AND RIPON FUN IN THE SUN

TAKE A TRIP TO EUROPE

DANNY’S DESTINY

WOMAN OF COURAGE

STEPHANIE’S BRAVE BATTLE

WILLETT IS THE MASTER OF AUGUSTA

WIN FOURBALLS AT ALLENDALE GC, EAGLESCLIFFE GC AND WILTON GC t

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EDITOR Paul Robertson editor@northerngolfer.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS Dean Bailey 07792 608 162 dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk Paul Corney 07521 389 536 pcorney@northerngolfer.co.uk Alan Hedley 07570 797 566 ahedley@northerngolfer.co.uk Daniel Hookway 01670 540 110 dihookway@gmail.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Gillian Corney 01661 845 026 07903 500 401 gillian@offstonepublishing.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Nicky Rogerson info@nrphotography.co.uk Peter Skelton www.photo-psp.co.uk

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EDITOR’S NOTE AND CONTENTS With the green jacket presented to Danny Willett we can safely say the golf season is underway. The fantastic action at Augusta National certainly whets the appetite for what is to come in the North East and Yorkshire. It is inspiring for Northern golfers everywhere to see Yorkshireman Danny pick up the green jacket, Close House’s Lee Westwood as runnerup and young Matt Fitzpatrick taking seventh place at The Masters. Well done to them all. Equally inspiring is Stephanie Peareth, whose determination to start playing again despite an incurable brain condition shines through - her incredibly moving story is on page 12. Still on the inspirational theme - Graeme Storm deserves huge credit having successfully launched his Junior Open at Hartlepool. To see so many youngsters playing great golf and, more importantly, enjoying themselves was hugely encouraging. It is the most high profile of a number of initatives underway at clubs throughout the region to get more youngsters into the game - including our Junior Champion of Champions. Make sure you enter your club’s top youngster for the event later this year. Charity also plays a big part in most club golfer’s year - you can find some of the latest events to enter within these pages plus remember to let us know of any causes you are supporting. We would be delighted to feature them. Our travel feature takes us over to Europe, but if you fancy somewhere closer to home then you would do well to try out the courses we review this month - Backworth and Ripon - or see if you can win a fourball at Allendale, Eaglesclife or Wilton. Another good way to visit other courses (or welcome competitors to your home fairways) is through our Match Play Pairs and Ladies Greensomes. Entries close at the end of the month so make sure you register - details on pages 58 and 59. We wish you the best of luck wherever you’re playing - particularly if you are now off the back tees. The region is so lucky to have so many magnificent courses - let us all encourage new, lapsed and regular golfers to give some of them a try. FREE AT GOLF CLUBS IN THE NORTH EAST AND YORKS HIRE - ISSUE

NORTHERN

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

Danny Willett is the new golfing superstar after a brilliant performance at The Masters Pages 30-32

northerngolfer.co.uk

©Offstone Publishing 2016. 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.

12-13 THIS GIRL CAN The incredible story of Stephanie Peareth

14 CALLING ALL JUNIORS Junior Champion of Champions returns later this year

18-29 TEEING OFF

Morpeth’s mark, home comforts, and duo reign in Spain

33 TOUR LIFE

Chris Paisley updates us on European Tour life

34-35 TOP GEAR

The latest equipment news

38-47 GOLFER NEWS

New faces, charity champs, and incentives for golfers

48 COMPETITIONS

Win golf for four at Allendale, Eaglescliffe, and Wilton

Turkey, Spain and Portugal in focus

REVIEWED

BACKWORTH AND RIPON FUN IN THE SUN

TAKE A TRIP TO EUROPE

DANNY’S DESTINY R OF AUGUSTA

WIN FOURBALLS AT ALLEN

16 BACKWORTH GOLF CLUB

OF GOLF FACES, PLACES AND ACES

Storming start, girls want to have fun, and Rock stars

53-55 TRAVEL

WILLETT IS THE MASTE

When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

INSIDE

64 PAG ES

Paul Robertson, editor editor@northerngolfer.co.uk

FRONT COVER

APRIL 2016

04-10 TEEING OFF

DALE GC, EAGLESCLIFFE

50 RIPON GOLF CLUB

WOMAN OF COURAG E

STEPHANIE’S BRAVE BATTLE

GC AND WILTON GC

56 TIPS

The power of recovery

58-59 LAST CHANCE

Enter our Match Play Pairs and Ladies Greensomes

62 BUNKER

Stories and pictures from around the region NORTHERN GOLFER 03

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Graeme Storm with competitors and winners at his inaugural Junior Open at Hartlepool

Storming start Inaugural tournament proves a big success

he Graeme Storm Junior Open is set to become a permanent fixture in the North East golfing calendar - if the European Tour player gets his way. The inaugural event at Hartlepool

04 NORTHERN GOLFER

was a massive success with more than 130 youngsters - some as young as seven - taking part. The scoring was fantastic, the weather less so with spells of hailstones but there was also some late sunshine, and £2,500

was raised for the Finlay Cooper Memorial Fund. Stockton’s Ben Brown, Matfen Hall’s Angus Buchanan and Houghton’s Rio Jones won the three age categories as former French Open champion Storm and former Middlesbrough footballer Colin Cooper looked on along with hundreds of spectators. Storm said: “It was an unbelievable day, the weather could have ruined it, but everything was superb - particularly the support

from everyone who has come. “Everything ran really well and we will do it again. The standard of golf was unbelievable - we have seen some great swings, real talent and the scoring proved it. “I have a lot of people to thank especially the youngsters who took part, all those who donated prizes, my club Hartlepool who really stepped up to the mark, and my wife Sara, who did a lot of the work.” Storm first learned the game at Hartlepool before going on to

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become British Amateur Champion, French Open Champion and a seasoned Tour pro. Storm, who is attached to Rockliffe Hall, added: “There were some great prizes up for grabs and the winners will get to play with me at Rockliffe and also won a voucher from my sponsors TaylorMade for a new M2 driver and fairway wood.” Cooper enjoyed watching the action unfold from start to finish and thanked Storm for choosing to raise money for the charity he set up 10 years ago following the death of his son. He said: “When you are a small and self-funding charity, every penny that we receive goes straight out to the cause we support. “Anything that was raised, plus the kudos of Graeme wanting to use our charity, is brilliant. I have a lot of respect for him as a talented athlete, to team up with him for this is an honour and privilege.” The scoring was exceptional, non more so than Matfen’s Buchanan who managed 50 points off his 20

handicap. Despite the remarkable score, he didn’t run away with his category with his two closest challengers both returning 46 points. What was also encouraging was the number of girls playing in the event - even if they missed out being among the prizes - plus the number of parents and spectators who were there and the number of people who stayed on for the presentation.

Results: 7-10 years: Ben Brown 33 (on back nine), Oliver Butts 33, Adam Dews 30 11-14: Angus Buchanan 50, Ben Robinson 46 (on back nine), Gabriel SomervilleSmith 46 15-18: Rio Jones 39 (on back nine), Adam Stokle 39, Jacob Brown 38

Wynyard Golf Club

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Three of a kind

Northumberland course launches Par 3 Open

atfen Hall is planning to launch a North East Par 3 Open Championship. The event will be a two-day tournament with an adult open championship on July 1 with tee-off times between 4-7 pm, and open to anyone with an official handicap, followed by a junior championship the next day. The event is an integral part of Matfen’s Golfing Pathway programme based on the Academy and par three course, a programme aimed at making it easier for people to get into and play golf, and become members. Last year, Matfen launched its EasyGolf concept on the par three course and launched a nine-hole membership. The concept of making golf more accessible continues this season with nine-hole competitions and

the launch of the new Par 3 Open along with a major refurbishment of the Academy café and driving range with its 10 covered bays, short-game and putting areas. With European Seniors Tour player John Harrison - one of the country’s top coaches - in charge of the teaching programme, the response to Matfen’s initiatives over the last 12 months has been good - especially with the nine-hole membership granting a handicap and the opportunity of competitive golf. There have also been smart innovations such as EasyGolf with a bigger holes and different coloured flags making the game easier or more difficult. “Lots of people saw how much fun it was on the par three,” said Harrison. “We give beginners a domestic handicap on the par three course straight away so they can

John Harrison and Peter Smith monitor their progress much more easily and it has gone down well with the juniors and ladies. “We’ve had family golf competitions over nine holes on weekends - which is easy enough for us as we have 27 holes here and means regular players can always play their 18-hole tournament while we use the spare nine for a family

event. We try to make it fun for the family, they are on the course for a couple of hours and then they can come back in for something to eat in the Keeper’s Lodge, making it a great family afternoon.” The entry fee for adults is £10 and just £5 for juniors. To enter, email peter.smith@matfenhall.com

L I FES T YLE £170 Membership Full SMGC member benefits Club and Open Competition rights Managed CONGU handicap 06 NORTHERN GOLFER

To join now or to find out more Call Southmoor Golf Club 01207 232 848 Or search “Southmoor Lifestyle”

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Girls just want to have fun Golf Rocks campaign launched

urham girls’ golf is ready to rock thanks to the launch of a campaign to inspire new players. The Durham County girls squad are set to act as ambassadors in the new Girls Golf Rocks campaign which aims to attract beginners to have fun, learn a new sport, get active and play alongside friends – with no pressure. Aimed at girls aged five to 18, the campaign tees off with free taster sessions, supported by the county girls, at Chester-leStreet, Durham City, Oakleaf and Ramside. Following the tasters with PGA professionals, the four clubs will each offer six-week structured coaching programmes, with the county girl players mentoring the newcomers. All girls who complete the coaching programme will be fitted with a free

seven iron and the finale will be a fun par three competition at Oakleaf. Bobby Griffiths, Durham County junior organiser said: “We are delighted to be involved with the Girls Golf Rocks campaign. “We already have lots of girls in Durham playing regular golf, but would love to see more girls participating. The girls currently playing are keen to show them that golf is not just for old men but can be a great opportunity to keep fit, make new friends and have lots of fun.” Kitana Hollins, 16, started playing when she was 10 and is a member at Ramside

Durham County’s ambassadors for Girls Golf Rocks (© Leaderboard Photography)

and also Durham’s junior captain. She said: “I started at an after school games club and playing golf has enabled me to make friends with girls from all over the country. I enjoy meeting with them and having a laugh. It can be a frustrating game, but playing with your friends and having a good round can make you feel really good about yourself and boost your confidence a lot. I love it.” More information at www.getintogolf.org/durham

April Championship Golf ...on your doorstep Green Fees Rockliffe Hall’s championship golf course is the finest winter course in the North of England. With 18 holes and five individual tee boxes it offers players of all abilities the chance to experience the challenge. With no winter greens or tees, the course remains in fantastic condition all year round - come rain or shine!

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Right way to play Theory helps keep 90-year-old Lilian on course

ilian Bennett is a name that will be familiar to more than a few Durham County golfers. Now 90-years-old, Lilian, a former county champion and single-figure handicapper for 50 years, thought her golfing days were over as she was crippled with arthritis. But then Andrew Gunn, professional at Tyneside Golf Club, introduced her to the theory of the right-sided golf swing, which aims to put much less stress on painful joints. Andrew, who is attached to the popular head professional Gary Vickers at Tyneside, has now become an accredited teacher of

the right-sided swing since studying with Gary Edwin, the inventor of this new way of playing. The son of Mack Gunn, Tyneside’s long-serving pro until his retirement, Andrew has already gained a diploma and Masters degree with the European Golf Teaching Federation and is still studying with Edwin at level three of the Gary Edwin training course. Lilian has paid tribute to Andrew’s teaching skills, especially to his incredible patience trying to teach her to change from a swing which she has used for 70 years to one which is completely opposite. She thinks that the right-sided

Lilian Bennet and Andrew Gunn swing puts much less strain on the lower back and knee joints. “I wish I’d been taught the right-sided swing when I first started to play 70 years ago,” she said. Andrew has also had much success coaching a number of the junior beginners who are quick to pick up this uncomplicated swing.

Tyneside is continuing its reputation for longevity among their club staff. Mack Gunn stepped down after 40 years as club pro to be succeeded by Gary Vickers and Mack’s son Michael marked 25 years as assistant head greenkeeper as David Simpson completed 25 years as head greenkeeper.

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Robbie Redpath (left) and Chris Handy at South Moor (© Ian Horrocks)

Handy ambassador

DRIVING RANGE 24 Floodlit Bays - £3.00 for 50 Balls - £5.00 for 100 balls Buy a range card and save £££’s FORTHCOMING EVENTS British Heart Foundation Open Saturday June 11th Support our Soldiers Open Saturday 16th July Ring the Golf Shop on 0191 2624231 ext 2 CLUBHOUSE Serving food & drink 7 days - Live sports shown

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Champion Chris joins forces with Dyslexia charity

urham teenager Chris Handy will be flying the flag for Dyslexia North East this year. Nineteen-year-old Chris, South Moor’s only national champion in its 93-year-history, was asked to be an ambassador for Dyslexia North East by the charity’s trustee Robbie Redpath. A former conditioning trainer for the Newcastle Falcons rugby club, Robbie said: “Everywhere Chris travels – and that includes starting his scholarship on the US college circuit this year at Oakland University in Michigan – he will be flying our flag as well as South Moor’s.” Like Chris, Robbie’s wife Sonia is dyslexic and Robbie said: “Chris Handy is the sort of guy who will definitely raise awareness of our charity. “He is a fantastic golfer. He finished three strokes clear of the field in the English Boys County Champion of Champions tournament last year. “This season he is playing World Amateur Golf Ranking tournaments in the UK. As well as those two things about Chris resonate with me. Despite

being dyslexic, he got good A level results last year. I had a great time when I played golf with him at his club. He’s a lovely lad and a credit to his parents. There is every chance he will go far in the game.” Robbie, who lives in Gosforth, points out that a test for dyslexia costs £450 and, although available through the NHS, the process is complex and time consuming. “Many parents rely on getting funding advice from charities like ours”, said Robbie. “They also need our assistance in coping with difficulties. Generally speaking, schools are reluctant to be proactive about the problems dyslexia causes any of their pupils because of the costs. “Typically, dyslexia sufferers are highly talented and creative people, but many struggle through life never getting the help they need. That’s where we come in. “Charities like Dyslexia North East take a lot of the stress out of life for people like me,” said Chris. “Representing them as well as my club when I play tournaments is the least I can do.”

To find out more about the charity, visit dyslexianortheastengland.org.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 09

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Shedding light on course

Rockliffe Hall’s floodlit championship golf course Rockliffe Hall is introducing floodlights on its 18 hole championship golf course to enable members and guests to play 24 hours a day. The course already boasts stateof-the-art irrigation and drainage systems to ensure it is open as much as possible, but the short amount of daylight hours through winter, and bad light at other times of the year, restrict the amount of playing hours members can enjoy. Until now! The resort is investing in revolutionary, zero pollution floodlights so members can play a round at any time, day or night. Each tee will boast a 20ft floodlight which will light up each fairway, while specially designed lights on each green will enable players to putt, as if it was still the middle of the day. To further enhance the night time golfing experience, glow in the dark golf balls, which light up for eight minutes once they’ve been struck, will also be available to buy in the pro shop. The first floodlights will be installed in the coming weeks and soon Rockliffe’s 7,879 yard course, one of the longest in Europe, will be able to give any golfer the stern test it’s renowned for, at any time. Eamonn Elliott, Rockliffe Hall chief executive, says: “We are constantly striving to further improve the Rockliffe experience for all our guests. Ask any die-hard golfer and they’ll tell you that if they could, they would play golf 24/7. Soon, at Rockliffe, they will be able to.” 10 NORTHERN GOLFER

Rockliffe Hall

Rock stars

Resort picks up three national honours and Close House wins one too

ockliffe Hall has picked up a hatMeanwhile, Northumberland’s Close House trick of awards. also received a coveted Silver Flag at the The Co Durham championship 59club’s awards night. golf course and hotel scooped the Eamonn Elliott, Rockliffe Hall chief top accolade of Large Hotel of the Year executive, said: “This is a fabulous at the VisitEngland Awards for achievement for us. We strive to Excellence in Blackpool. be the best and considering Rockliffe was also Rockliffe Hall has only named the Best Golf been open for six years Resort in Europe in and to compete with The Golfers’ Choice well-established golf 2016 rankings - a joint clubs and resorts that initiative between have been around Booking.com and for many, many years LeadingCourses.com. is fantastic.” The Hurworth Jonathan Lupton, layout earned a rating managing director of 9.3 out of 10, beating at Close House, said: Close House top resorts including Terre “Working closely with Blanche in France, Finca 59club has meant a lot to us. It Cortesin in Spain and Celtic Manor helps us to benchmark the business. in Wales. To be recognised in this manner really means The five-star resort near Darlington was a lot to us. There’s been a big transition at also named a Silver Flag winner at the annual Close House and a lot of investment from the 59club golf service awards - regarded by many owner, Graham Wylie, who continues to grpw as the Oscars of the golf service industry. the business.”

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Northern Golfer April 2016

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GOLFERPROFILE

Steph’s courage shines through

Stephanie Peareth

Alan Hedley reports on a young golfer who is defying the odds to make a golfing comeback

f they hand out awards for sheer courage and determination then Stephanie Peareth deserves to be first in line. Stephanie will be known to many in the North East golfing fraternity, but few will be aware of her daily battle to live her life - and play golf - despite an incurable brain condition. She was told it was unlikely she would ever be able to do anything active and live a regular 24-year-old’s life after two brain surgeries, but against all the odds, she is slowly building her life - playing golf and making plans for a competitive comeback later this year. Now living in Miami, Stephanie started playing golf at the age of 13 at Oakleaf, Newton Aycliffe, influenced by her grandfather Bill and her parents Ann and Mark. She improved and played for her club, Durham County Juniors and Durham County Ladies, and became Scotland Under 16 Champion. Not surprisingly, she decided that golf was something she wanted to pursue as a career. Taken under the wing of Neil Whinham, PGA professional at Oakleaf and Whitburn, who remains her coach, Stephanie studied sport at Darlington’s Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College and earned a golf scholarship in the US, attending Pfeiffer University, North Carolina, and then Concord University, West Virginia. In a stellar collegiate, she won 12 titles, two East Regional top rankings of first and second and graduated in May 2014 with a sports management degree. Moving to Miami, she took a job as assistant professional at Miccosukee Golf and Country Club. Six months later she was offered the job of Head Golf Professional and completed her LPGA TCP classification. It seemed she was living her dream and working with Mike Kerr, the father of LPGA star Cristie, and Neil she was 12 NORTHERN GOLFER

preparing for qualifying school for the Symetra Tour Road, a route to the LPGA Tour. But then illness struck. “It started on February 15, 2014,” said Stephanie. “I know the exact date, it was the day after Valentine’s and I flew back to Miami to see my boyfriend Sebastian, but the trip was ruined by an incredibly painful migraine. “Throughout my final semester I’d had frequent migraines. My dad used to suffer from them so I thought I had to suck it up and just get on with it. “After moving to Miami with its hot climate and a new job, the migraines got worse but I assumed the heat and the change of lifestyle were a big part of it. “It wasn’t until hitting a golf ball in late July I realised it was very painful and couldn’t be normal. Hitting a golf shot increased the headache and caused pain in my eyes. “I went to get my eyes tested, thinking I needed glasses and the ophthalmologist found an uneasy line behind my left eye and referred me to a neurologist. I was then diagnosed with a benign tumour and swelling of my optic nerve. “The doctor was astonished when he found out how long I’d been fighting the pain and he was amazed I was still mobile after getting my brain pressure results back. “It was difficult to deal with as my boyfriend, parents and George, my brother, were all back in the UK.” Medication didn’t seem to work too well and after a difficult Christmas, Stephanie was sent for surgery which involved a lumbar peritoneal shunt in her spine plus a device to help drain the fluid from her brain. “It wasn’t easy coming out of surgery, but things were getting better. I was having less headaches, was more mobile and able to do things without pain,” she says. “I was so positive that it had worked and that I would be getting

better, but six months down the line I was rushed into hospital with severe pains, vision issues and swollen eyes. I went back into surgery and had a shunt placed in my brain. “Sebastian and I were in the middle of moving home when I was rushed in and this time there was a lot of pain. It wasn’t until October when I felt the best I’d felt for a while and I wanted to be able to play again.” Stephanie wasn’t allowed out of hospital until she could walk again and

get used to opening her eyes without any balance or movement issues. “It was a long process but I made myself recover so I could just leave the hospital and recover in the comfort of my own home. “I asked the doctors to let me figure out what I could and couldn’t do on my own. I took my first swing in over 16 months late in October last year and it felt amazing; it was such an emotional experience. “My parents came over in

GOLFERPROFILE

LUB RYTON GOLFTyC ne & Wear

MEMBERSHIP INTRO SPECIALS

November and it was a special moment to share that first game of golf with my dad in such a long time -something we thought we would never have again.” Stephanie has her good and bad days and the hardest part is knowing that, despite the two surgeries, what she has is incurable. “I am adapting day by day and trying to keep as normal as possible. There are a lot of things I cannot do, but I find out my strengths along the way. I am determined to build as normal a life as possible and try to enjoy everything that I do.” In her darkest days, Stephanie could have been forgiven for feeling sorry for herself. So what did she do? When she couldn’t play she turned to teaching and she is now the LPGA girls golf site director for Miami helping young girls to play golf. “I love this sport! I run, create and organise the girls golf programmes for Miami and this has kept me positive. “My playing dreams had to be placed on hold in 2014 and 2015 but I plan to play again this year and take things slowly to rebuild my game. “Golf is still my number one and I want to be able to play with my friends and family again and enjoy what I love. “I aim to play in the LPGA National Championship in August and it will be a special one with my dad on the bag.” Stephanie has also now been appointed a Srixon staff player and she added: “I have a great job and lifestyle with amazing support from friends and family. I’m regaining health each week and slowly working to be able to make playing golf a natural thing once again without any pain. I have the greatest boyfriend, Sebastian, who has been there from day one and he has been my rock.”

Stephenie with her parents Ann and Mark at her graduation

MUM ANN SAYS... “It was October 2014 when we heard the devastating news but her strength and determination was so inspirational - I couldn’t have felt more proud of her. “She is a true fighter and an inspiration to everyone. After recovery you couldn’t keep Steph down for long, she found her strength and drive again, got herself back into the swing of things and ploughed herself into work coaching her girls. “You can’t tell Steph she can’t do something, you’ve just got to say “go and get it”. I have never been more proud, words cannot express how my daughter makes me feel. I am privileged to be her mother but even more to call her my friend!” DAD MARK SAYS... “From the day Stephanie fell sick she has been so strong and words can’t describe how proud she makes me. “2015 a very tough year but one she has overcome and has the strength to recover from. The moment we received the phone call about her diagnosis she was so incredibly strong, she said: “Mam, dad there are people who sit in that neurologists office and get worse news.‘I’m going to live, yes differently, but I will be ok.’ “I cannot wait to be on her bag in August and watch her play. She deserves the best and I am proud to be her dad.”

Buy One Year get Second Year FREE!!! Full 7 Day 24 Months £529 Over 50 – 12 Months £300 Under 30 – 12 Months £200 Ladies – 12 Months £300 * first time joiners

contact: secretary@rytongolfclub.co.uk

Telephone: 0191 4133253 or www.rytongolfclub.co.uk

LOVE GOLF.... LOVE BEAMISH PARK GOLF CLUB Providing Golfing Excellence for over 100 Years “Be Challenged and Enjoy the Experience”

MEMBERSHIP 2016 to March 2017 SPECIAL rate available to NEW applicants ONLY

Visitors & Societies Welcome Golf Parties of 16 or more Organiser goes FREE Summer Green Fees from £18.00 per round

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NORTHERN GOLFER 13

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Search on for junior champions Northern Golfer event set for Chester-le-Street later this year

ollowing the success of our first event in 2015, the Northern Golfer Junior Champion of Champions tournament returns on October 8 at Chester-le-Street Golf Club. Junior club champions from across the North East and Yorkshire will compete for the trophy over 18 holes, aiming to follow in the footsteps of Tyneside Golf Club’s James Wilson. Wilson, who represents Durham and England Boys, shot a superb round of 72 over the Cathedral Course at Ramside Hall

to earn a one-shot victory over Boldon Golf Club’s Rhys Thompson in 2015. Heworth Golf Club’s Aaron Scott finished third with a round of 75, as Chester-leStreet’s Alex Carr finished in fourth place with a round of 77. A total of 43 players from across the North East and Yorkshire took part last year, with the event hosted by Ramside Hall Hotel Golf & Spa and supported by partners Mill Volvo, Elddis Transport, Tour Performance Golf, and Hall Construction.

CHESTER-LE-STREET GOLF CLUB HOST TO THE NORTHERN GOLFER JUNIOR CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS EVENT 2016 MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR 2016 SEE OUR WEB SITE FOR DETAILS

OPENS 2016 SENIORS - 20TH APRIL & 2ND AUGUST MIXED GREENSOMES - 8TH MAY GENTS - 29TH MAY LADIES - 1ST JUNE 4 MAN TEAM - 20TH AUGUST LADIES AM-AM - 24TH AUGUST Contact: Secretary 0191 388 3218 or email: clsgcoﬃce@tiscali.co.uk PGA Professional 0191 388 2333 Chester le Street Golf Club, Lumley Park, County Durham, DH3 4NS

www.clsgolfclub.co.uk 14 NORTHERN GOLFER

Northern Golfer editor Paul Robertson said: “We are passionate about promoting junior golf and are really looking forward to hosting our second Junior Champion of Champions event. “We look forward to welcoming as many young players as possible to the event, from across our region, and seeing the event grow as more clubs get involved and more juniors compete for the title.” Clubs will be contacted soon to enter their champions. For more information, email editor@northerngolfer.co.uk

James Wilson with Ramside captain Alf Magrs

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COURSEREVIEW

Backworth’s short and sweet Dean Bailey plays one of the region’s finest nine-hole layouts

very golfer savours the moment they turn through the gates of their home club and leaves the world behind them, and there are few drives as picturesque as turning through the gates of Backworth Golf Club - heading along the driveway flanked by tall trees before arriving at the front of the 18th Century mansion house, Backworth Hall. If you didn’t know this patch of green was here, it’s easy to miss - its boundary flanked by high stone walls and bordered by housing. But, turning through those gates, it’s clear why members enjoy golf here so much. The course, which measures 5,939 yards from the back tees, sits in the shadow

16 NORTHERN GOLFER

of the Hall and features 10 greens with 18 separate tees. Its main defence is small putting surfaces, protected by deep bunkers, often at the front of the greens. A warm up is highly recommended - the chipping green and practice ground are on your left as you head to the first tee - as the opening 306-yard par four offers a great chance to start your round with a birdie. Played downhill, avoid the out of bounds left and ponds flanking the back of the green should you take it on with the driver. When playing the 10th, the hole is played to the green on the left - lay up with a long iron and try to leave your pitch below the hole for the

best chance of birdie. At the par four second, the best drives draw around the corner - avoiding the bunkers on the corner of the dog-leg and the cricket field to the left, which is out of bounds. Two more bunkers await at the green, which is two-tiered. If the pin is at the back, watch out for the ditch at the back of the green, which will gather anything past the flag. The par threes at Backworth are both worthy of signature hole status and we chose the third (see factfile) played between 130-150 yards. Before course alterations in the 1980s, the fourth was ranked the toughest hole on the course. Measuring more than 400 yards, the fairway bunker right is a magnet for drives around 250 yards. Two more bunkers protect the approach, while three bunkers and undulations protect the trickiest green on the course. A tough par four. The fifth is a simple par five on the front nine measuring 481 yards, but a challenging par four of 393 yards on the back nine. The green is very narrow at the front making a long approach a difficult one, while two deep bunkers gather

COURSEREVIEW

FACT FILE

A miners’ welfare, Backworth is home to far more than a golf club. Cricket, bowls, croquet and archery clubs also share the grounds, remaining true to the reason the welfare was established in the early 20th Century. The Hall, which was home Ralph William Grey, is also a popular wedding venue with its grand style and stunning location

CONTACT Backworth Golf Club Backworth Miners’ Welfare Backworth, NE27 0AH Tel: 0191 268 1048 (Bar) 0191 268 9131 (Course information) 0191 268 4247 (Office) Email: backworth.miners@virgin.net Web: www.backworthgolf.co.uk anything short and make a front flag toughest. The back of the green is generous, though thick rough awaits through the back. The second of the par threes is the shortest at around 120 yards to a green with two distinct portions - the front protected by a false front, and the back right - traditionally the toughest pin on the green - protected by a deep bunker and a further trap hidden beyond at the back right of the green. With stroke index one and two billing, the seventh (and 16th) is a true three-shot par five. Played at a little more than 500 yards, each shot requires accuracy with bunkers and water in play. The green here is the most generous on the course but is protected by five bunkers. The eighth (and 17th), is another driveable par four for the big hitters - though trees await wayward drives left and right, and the small, undulating green can be very tough should you end up in the wrong corner for the day’s pin position. The last is one of the toughest finishing holes in Northumberland. Played uphill, this tree-lined 369 yard (379 yards as the 18th) par four is all about getting your tee shot in play. Left is a lost ball, while spraying a tee shot over onto the first fairway leaves a tough approach over the trees. The green is generous, though missing it leaves a tough up and down. After your game, head inside to experience one of the warmest welcomes you’ll find in the North East - as well as some fantastic food from Blue Fox Catering, which joined the club at the start of 2016.

GREEN FEES Weekdays and weekends - £18 With member - £13 Nine holes - £10 Buggies - £10 TOTAL DISTANCE White tees - 5,939 yards Yellow tees - 5,606 yards Red tees - 5,211 yards FEATURES Stunning clubhouse with events and weddings catered for Practice ground Chipping green Putting green Changing rooms CADDY’S TIP Anything left from the tee is in trouble here with out of bounds in play on three of the nine holes and thick rough and trees protecting a further four. The course is short by modern standards, but the greens are very small - a sharp wedge game is key to scoring. SIGNATURE HOLE The par three third measures between 130 and 150 yards and got our nod thanks to its picturesque setting. Surrounded by tall trees on all sides, the green here is protected by four bunkers - find the right quarter of the green and a good birdie chance awaits.

OUR VERDICT A short, but well-defended course, which is a real joy to play. Add in the warm welcome and there are few places you’ll enjoy playing golf more NORTHERN GOLFER 17

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Tailor Made

Durham allows shorts to be worn in competitions

layers will be allowed to wear shorts for the first time in this year’s Durham County Championships and competitions. Secretary Jonathan Ward confirmed the relaxation of the normally strict rules governing what players can and can’t wear on the course in county events. “Shorts will be allowed in county events this season as long as they are tailored and are worn with a belt and ankle socks,” he said. Durham isn’t the first county to move into 21st century with regard to golfing dress, Suffolk allowed shorts for the first time in 2013 while there is no suggestion of a revolution here as England Golf also allows shorts in its championships. The European Tour pros preparing for the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship earlier this season were

allowed to wear shorts during practice days and pro-ams for the first time. No shorts are allowed during tournaments and the Open Championship will continue to enforce a strict dress code which means no shorts inside the ropes this year. None of the significant men’s professional tours allow their golfers to play tournament rounds in shorts and the ‘no shorts’ policy at the US Open is a written rule. Shorts won’t be worn in Northern Counties League matches either - it will only be in Durham County’s events that players will be able to show off their knees. Player will also be able to enter county events online on the county website. Durham will also have a new County Captain this season with Gerry Johnson (Bishop Auckland) taking

Les Inskip over from Billingham’s John Kirk, who is now County President-elect and the new county treasurer is John Bosanko (Beamish Park). He takes over from club colleague Les Inskip who has stepped down after 27 years in the job. Inskip is one of the few men to combine the role of county president, secretary and treasurer as he did in 1999. He joined the Durham County

executive in 1987 becoming treasurer to following year, and secretary in 1991, before being elected county president in 1999. Durham re-elected Wearside’s Graham Hope for a second year as president at their annual meeting with John Kirk made president-elect while Knotty Hill’s Gordon Cessford was elected to the executive.

MIDDLESBROUGH GOLF CLUB BRASS CASTLE LANE Telephone 01642 311766 www.middlesbroughgolfclub.co.uk Visiting Party Packages - From £35 per person Middlesbrough Golf Club Pro Am - Friday 27th May £195 per team Gents Open - Sunday 29th May £30 per pair To book or for further information contact Gordon Cattrell Club Professional on 01642 311766 or email gcattrell@tgigolf.com North of England Open Amateur Youth Championship 2nd-4th Aug 2016 Follow us on Twitter @ MGC1908 18 NORTHERN GOLFER

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Fulford (York) Golf Club

Trophy winners at the NJGA annual meeting and trophy night

Plea for young golfers David Evans has issued a plea to clubs in Northumberland to encourage more youngsters to enter NJGA events. Evans, president and treasurer of the Northumberland Junior Golf Association, told the association’s annual meeting and prizegiving at the City of Newcastle Golf Club: “We are all aware that golf clubs, golf societies and associations are struggling for members and the NJGA is no different. “As competition secretary for the NJGA, I had a database of 485 junior players four years ago.

That database now stands at 130. I urge all the junior organisers to try and persuade their juniors to enter in as many NJGA events as they can.” Officials elected were: President, David Evans; Vice Presidents, David Beardall, George Logan, John Duncan; Secretary, Gordon Garratt; Treasurer, David Evans; Boys Captain, Richard Coulthard, Vice Captain, Mark Friar; Girls Captain, Amy Hargrave; Vice Captain, Charlotte Pickering; Simon McStravick elected onto the NJGA Committee.

Visitor & Societies welcome Ring NOW for our Summer green fees and Golf Packages Visit our online booking service www.fulfordgolfclub.co.uk Or ring Tom on 01904 413579 ext 4

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Packages from £25 per person Limited Weekend Availability For further details telephone the Secretary on 01429 836510 or email castleedengolfclub@hotmail.com

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PRO SHOP 01642 311766 MIDDLESBROUGH GOLF CLUB BRASS CASTLE LANE TS8 9EE WWW.MIDDLESBROUGHGOLFCLUB.CO.UK @gcatgolf

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Castle Eden Golf Club, Castle Eden, TS27 4SS www.castleedengolfclub.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 19

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Best foot forward Roseberry and Ramside prove they are on the ball with golfing trends

oseberry Grange has introduecd Footgolf to its range of facilities. The Grange Villa club is using the first 11 holes as the new Footgolf course - a further step forward for a club which faced closure until members stepped up to take over the running of it from Durham County Council five years ago. Ramside Hall has also launched a Footgolf championship open for teams of four players. Helen Roseberry, director of golf at Ramside Golf Club, said: “Footgolf has exploded in popularity in the past three years and nationally huge numbers of people are trying it because it combines two of Britain’s favourite sports. “Footgolf is easy to pick up, can be played by people of all ages and fitness levels, and is a totally new way of

having fun at a golf club.” The series will begin on May 11 and will raise funds for The Butterwick Hospice and The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. Footgolf is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK, which now has regional, national and even a world championship. Roseberry Grange head greenkeeper Jason Storey and golf development officer Chris Jones felt it was an obvious move to make. Jones said: “During our research we identified there was no UK Footgolf affiliated courses in County Durham and Northumberland. “We held meetings with the Footgolf directors and they were impressed with our facility and the undulating hills that would provide an excellent Footgolf course. “We have strategically planned it

Give it some welly and our Footgolf opening times of 3-6 pm, five days a week, allows golfers to play their golf while we look to utilise the quietest times on the course. “While we understand golf is paramount, we believe this will introduce a new market to our club and we will use this to introduce them to golf. “We could have a new breed of Footgolfers and golfers playing both games.” Roseberry is now also associated with Durham Golf Partnership and is

an active Get Into Golf centre offering five weeks of coaching for £25 with a free one month trial membership for all participants and recently introduced a recruitment pathway into full membership for £225. “We have had a good number of people taking the game up over the last couple of years on the scheme and are now full members,” added Chris. “As we diversify to attract and retain all customers at Roseberry Grange there are exciting times ahead and everyone is welcome to come and give us a go.”

Parklands Spend at our golf shop and earn rewards VISIT THE GOLF SHOP AT PARKLANDS GOLF CLUB AND DISCOVER OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE OF GOLF EQUIPMENT FROM ALL THE LEADING GOLF BRANDS. VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO DOWNLOAD A VOUCHER AND START EARNING REWARDS NOW.

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BUY A WEEKDAY GREENFEE GET ONE ½ PRICE AFTER 2PM

4 BALL FROM £55 SOCIETIES FROM £17PP

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We are stockists of Callaway, TaylorMade, Ping, Titleist, Footjoy, Addidas, Ashworth and Galvin Green. We also offer Custom Fit, academies and tuition for all abilities. A variety of gift vouchers are available to buy. Parklands reserve the right to withdraw or amend these offers at anytime. See our website for more information.

Visit our website www.parklandsgolf.co.uk or E:info@parklandsgolf.co.uk

SHOP 0191 2364480 OFFICE 0191 2363322 – HIGH GOSFORTH PARK, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE NE3 5HQ 20 NORTHERN GOLFER

INTRODUCING COUNTRY MEMBERSHIP AT THE NORTH-EAST’S ONLY TOP 100 GOLF COURSE

ENJOY YOUR VERY OWN GOLF DAY There are many benefits of being a Country Member at Close House, one of which is being able to book your very own golf day for up to 12 people, using your 6 nights’ complimentary stay to accommodate everyone in your party for a memorable golf and relaxation experience. Play the world’s first Lee Westwood golf courses: the Lee Westwood Filly course and the Lee Westwood Championship Colt course, which was voted one of the Top 100 courses in the UK and Ireland. Experience the fantastic facilities at the Academy with tuition from PGA professionals and a state-of-the-art floodlit driving range. Enjoy the contemporary dining experience that is No.19 clubhouse with stunning views over the Tyne Valley. Then relax in pure luxury by staying over in our suite-style Courtyard rooms. Close House Country Membership is available to those who reside full-time at least 50 miles from the club and are a member of another golf club. For further, detailed information on Country Membership, visit closehouse.com/membership

Golf Academy CLOSE HOUSE NEWCASTLE

“ I have been asked to be attached to a number of clubs but Close House has something different, something special. It doesn’t matter if you are a member or just visiting, everyone is made to feel really welcome.” Lee Westwood, Attached Tour Professional

CLOSE HOUSE, HEDDON ON THE WALL, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, NE15 0HT TELEPHONE 01661 85 22 55 EMAIL ENQUIRIES@CLOSEHOUSE.CO.UK WWW.CLOSEHOUSE.COM

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MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE OPEN COMPETITIONS 2016 Monday 18th April. Ladies Open. £24 team of 4. Saturday 6th August. Gents Open. £16 per pair. Tuesday 9th August. Seniors Open. £16 per pair. Monday 5th September. Ladies Open. £12 per pair.

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For further details or to book a tee time telephone the Secretary on 0191 2867636 or 0191 2860594 | Email: wgc@btconnect.com

WESTERHOPE GOLF CLUB Whorlton Grange, Westerhope, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE5 1PP www.westerhopegolfclub.com

Hetton LeGolf Hill Club ELEMORE SUPERB JONATHAN GAUNT LAYOUT

MEMBERSHIPS New Members enjoy Membership to March 31st 2017 Adults £430 - Seniors £325 Pay & Play - £15 per round - Seniors £12 per round (including weekends) Telephone 0191 5173061 or email hettoncgc@gmail.com Hetton le Hill Golf Club Elemore Vale, Easington Lane, DH5 0QT 22 NORTHERN GOLFER

Ingleby Barwick

Double top for Ross

Ross Jackson

Ingleby Barwick and Jackson shortlisted for prestigious awards

ngleby Barwick Golf Academy has been shortlisted for two prestigious national awards. The Teesside club boasts a state-of-the-art driving range, academy and nine-hole course and the driving force there is former Stressholme and Blackwell Grange pro Ross Jackson. Jackson’s efforts have been recognised by the Golf Foundation and both he and club have been shortlisted in the The Sinclair PGA Professional Award, while the junior development programme which bears his name has been nominated for The Bonallack Player Pathway Award, which goes to a project which has demonstrated a successful route from schools into club membership. Winning either award will be a first for the North East and all will be revealed at the Presidents Awards Night at the BMW PGA Championship in May. If Jackson picks up either award - or both - will be deserved recognition for his work since he moved to Ingleby Barwick two years ago. “When I started at Ingleby there was little junior participation and having such a strong passion for junior golf development that simply was not good enough for me,” said Jackson. “ I have gone above and beyond to

change that situation and ensured junior golf has been at the forefront of the facilities’ activities. “I wanted to create a child-centred facility that would be a platform for junior golfers to commence their golfing journey and provide the opportunity to enhance their skills. This has been complemented by creating some of the best golf coaching services in Europe.” There has been some impressive gains at the club, including junior membership growing by 200%, junior competitions climbing from three to 54 and more than 3,000 juniors having been taught during 2014/15. Jackson became the club’s junior liaison officer alongside his head PGA teaching professional in the summer of 2014 and took on extra duties by becoming part of the HSBC Golf Roots Coaches Network, and created a talent identification programme for the Teesside Golf Union. He had carried out similar work when working between Blackwell Grange and Stressholme before taking on a professional role when the two combined in 2013. Junior numbers went from just three to 63 following the merger and he forged strong partnerships with Darlington Borough Council.

TEEINGOFF Andy Scrimshaw (© Richard Hannam)

Wallace target

Michael Nesbitt (© Richard Hannam)

Duo reign in Spain

Cameron Wallace will be hoping it’s third time lucky this month after just missing out on two national titles. The Seaton Carew teenager represents Hartlepool College in the Association of Colleges Sport National Championships at Close House this month after just missing out on the AoC’s individual title at the Fairmont club in Scotland. He also narrowly missed out in the grand final of the new-look 2015 Titleist Order of Merit at The Belfry. Wallace, 16, who intends to play in the English Boys Open this summer, has seen his handicap drop to scratch over the last 12 months.

Nesbit and Scrimshaw win pro am

esterhope’s Michael Nesbit and Close House’s Andrew Scrimshaw tied for top spot in the NE/NW PGA’s Andalucia Pro Am to get their seasons off to a fast start. The PGA professionals, who returned scores of 136 points over four rounds, shared the top prize in the professionals’ event as Kris Gray finished third with a score of 134. Nesbit also recorded the best score of the event with 40 points in the third round.

Gray did win the team event however, alongside amateurs Bill Walker, Malcolm Walker, and Andy Potts with a team score of 322, 12 points ahead of Mark Watkins’ team, which included Warren Butterworth, Phil Richardson, and Gary Davison. The NE/NW PGA schedule continues with the Archerfield Spring Pro Am in April, before a packed schedule of pro ams heads to some of the region’s best courses including Rockliffe Hall, Ramside Hall and Eaglescliffe.

Check out the full calendar of NE/NW PGA events at www.nenwpga.co.uk

Summer Society Golf Packages 1st April until 31st October 2016

Par 70

Bacon bap & coffee & 18 holes From £23 pp*

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Flamborough Head Golf Club ‘The Friendliest Club on the Coast......’ Golf Society Packages

18 holes & 2 course meal From £30 pp*

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Ancient Mariner

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Paul Jones

Bacon Bap & coffee on arrival, 18 holes, lunch 18/9 holes & 2 course meal From £44 pp* Full details of golf packages can be found on www.ﬂamboroughheadgolfclub.co.uk *Mon-Thurs, minimum 8 golfers

Friday 15th April

FHGC Open AM AM

Gents, Mixed, Stableford. £50 team Sunday 22nd May

Thornwick & Sea Farm Open Gents 4BBB Stableford. £25 per card Tuesday 7th June

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House Favourite

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Saturday 25th June

Green acres Classic Open AM AM Gents, Mixed, Stableford. £50 team Friday 22nd July

Glenn McHale Open Gents AM AM Stableford, £50 per team Saturday 6th August

Inter Club Trophy Open AM AM Gents, Mixed Stableford. £50 team Friday 19th August

Junior Individual Open

£10 entry fee (inc meal & soft drink after playing Saturday 3rd September

Bridlington Free Press Masters Open Individual Medal £16 entry fee Friday 16th September

Seniors Open AM

Gents Stableford £50 team

Full details of golf packages can be found on www.ﬂamboroughheadgolfclub.co.uk

NORTHERN GOLFER 23

Hirsel Golf Club

PRO-FILE

One of the UK’s Hidden Gems, featured in Golf Monthly’s Top 100 Hidden Gems of UK & Ireland list Come and play the No1 golf course in the Scottish Borders

Visitors & Societies Always Welcome Party Packages We can tailor your golf outing to suit your needs Is there a better place to take your annual outing to?’ Contact the Secretary on 01890 882678 or email secretary@hirselgc.co.uk Open Competitions 2016 For details or to enter please visit our website www.hirselgc.co.uk

Hirsel Golf Club, Coldstream, Kelso Road, Berwickshire, TD12 4NJ

Ravensworth Golf Club www.ravensworthgolfclub.co.uk

2016 Memberships April to December available In All Categories 7 Day £470 - 5 Day £390 - Twilight £250 - Juniors 7-14 FREE Intermediate Rate available up to the age of 24 EZ4U Flexible Membership £150 then pay per play Society & Corporate Days Available with Bespoke Packages Available Bacon Roll & Coffee, 18 holes £19.50 Weekdays and £29.00 Weekends Discounts available for groups of 16 or more Friday Flyer - Bacon Roll & Coffee, 18 holes, Fish n Chips £22 (min 8 players)

Summer Green Fees From May 1st Weekdays £16, Weekends before 2 pm £25, After 2 pm £20 Monday & Wednesday Special £12 pp - Max 4 Ball

SUMMER OPENS BOOKING AVAILABLE ONLINE VIA OUR WEBSITE

Angel View, Long Bank, Wrekenton, Gateshead, NE9 7NE Tel: 0191 4876014 | email: info@ravensworthgolfclub.co.uk 24 NORTHERN GOLFER

PRO -FILE

DARREN PEARCE AGE: 51 TURNED PRO: 23 HOME CLUB: BARNARD CASTLE (26 YEARS) CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Played in the ISPS Handa PGA Seniors Championship at Close House in 2015 Also in 2015, holed out on the 18th hole at Brancepeth to win the NE/NW PGA Strokeplay Championship and complete the career grand slam of NE/NW PGA majors Played in Final Qualifying for the Open Championship with US Open winner Michael Campbell and Gordon Brand Jnr Past captain of the NE/NW PGA WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS SEASON? “I split my diary between working in the pro shop and teaching at Barnard Castle, and playing golf locally and on the senior circuit. I’m entering the Senior PGA Professional Championship again this year, aiming to qualify for the European Seniors Tour event having made it through last season. I’ll also be playing as full a schedule as possible on the NE/NW PGA circuit. It’s a good group of guys and the standard is high so the events are always good fun to compete in - and it gets me out and about.” HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE GAME? “As a 10-year-old I was looking around the garage of our new house and found an old golf club, a few balls and a handful of tees. I headed out to the field opposite our house with a few other kids and started chasing a ball around the field. My dad got me some lessons at Castle Eden Golf Club and I progressed through the junior system. I showed some promise early, got cut from 36 to 26 in my first competition and went from there. I won the Northern Boys, played for England Boys and won events locally and nationally before turning pro as a 23-year-old.” WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD? “I may take a look at qualifying for the European Seniors Tour, but I’ll base that decision on how well I’m competing. Apart from that, I’ll be splitting my time between working at Barnard Castle and playing as regularly as I can.” INTERESTING FACT: Started as an assistant to last month’s Pro-File star John Harrison at Barnard Castle.

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TEEINGOFF

Morpeth makes its mark Northumberland club wins seal of approval

orpeth Golf Club has been rewarded after backing the drive to grow the game. The Northumberland club, established in 1906, has achieved the GolfMark award from England Golf, which is the seal of approval for clubs which successfully work to develop the game. Morpeth has been proactive in attracting new members and encouraging existing members to play more, using practical business planning to develop the club, offering coaching and playing opportunities for all golfers and ensuring safeguarding policies are in place - all facets deemed necessary to win the Golfmark award. Designed by six-time Open champion Harry Vardon, Morpeth offers a golfing experience that is as picturesque as it is challenging and has worked hard to welcome players

of all abilities and from all sections of the community. The Sintons Junior Golf Academy offers coaching opportunities for younger players to progress into full playing members and the club has also been selected to host a round of the 2016 Macdonald Junior Golf Tour, which is operated by England Golf across Northumberland, Durham and Cumbria and sponsored by Macdonald Hotels. Morpeth isn’t resting on its laurels either and has embarked on an initiative to attract more women and girls to the game, and will be offering taster days and Get into Golf offers from next month. The clubhouse is also undergoing significant change with a major refurbishment programme under way. Ted Cromar, golf development director, led the club’s push to achieve GolfMark and said: “Morpeth is a great

Morpeth GC club and community facility, it is very friendly, welcoming and forward-thinking. This award helps us to spread the message and to tell people that children are safe and secure here and that we understand about beginner golfers.” The award was presented by Paul Whittaker, development officer for the Northumberland Golf Development Group. He said: “I’m

Morpeth’s golf development committee (l-r) Claire Allison, Ted Cromar, Paul Whittaker (Northumberland Golf Development Group), Leigh Waller and Jim Allison delighted that Morpeth has achieved GolfMark and that its efforts can be nationally recognised.”

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26 NORTHERN GOLFER

TEEINGOFF

Picturesque 18 Hole Parkland Course Visiting & Societies always welcome GOLF PACKAGES 2016 From £20.00 per person - includes coffee/bacon roll + 18 holes of golf Buggies available For further details or to book please contact the Professional Darren Crowle on 01388 762429 or email: secretary@crookgolfclub.co.,uk OPEN COMPETITIONS 2016 To enter check our website www.crookgolfclub.co.uk CROOK GOLF CLUB LOW JOBS HILL, CROOK, DL15 9AA

MOTOCADDY SALES AND SERVICE AGENT Durham County Ladies Golf Association’s Anderson Evening League Division One champions Houghton-le-Spring Ladies. Left to right: Julie Elliott, Michelle Hogg, Gabrielle Dickinson, Yvonne Setchell, Joanna Ellison and Vanessa Taylor

Houghton triumph

ast year proved to be a fantastic 12 months for Houghton’s ladies with success at county and club level. The 2015 season was capped by the club winning the Durham County Anderson Evening League Championship for the first time. Yvonne Setchell, Joanna Ellison, Michelle Hogg, Vanessa Taylor, Julie Elliott and Gabrielle Dickinson produced a great season winning six, drawing one and losing once. They amassed 28.5 games for and only 11.5 against to win the title, and captain Yvonne Setchell collected the league shield at the Durham County Ladies Golf Association AGM. More county success came

with Chris Bryson and Helen Pryor reaching the semi-finals of the Durham County Ladies Thomlinson Cup before going down to the eventual winners Billingham. And success continued in the Durham County Sivewright North League where the team of Ann Young, Mags Shaw, Helen Pryor, Sheila Munroe, Valda Grant, Vilma Warren, Chris Bryson and Chris Coleman achieved a very creditable third place. Also among the year’s highlights were holes-in-one for Michelle Hogg at the 15th during the Soulsby Cup, and Gabrielle Dickinson who achieved her second ace at the ninth hole at Darlington while playing for the Durham County Juniors.

Wilson wins Wynyard’s Andrew Wilson, a member of the England A squad, won the Students’ Golf Tour event at Dundonald Links in Ayrshire. Wilson (Northumbria University) shot 74 and 68 for a two-underpar total of 142 - two shots ahead of runners-up George Burns (St

Andrews) and James Wilson (Stirling) in an event reduced to 36 holes because of frost. St Andrews won the men’s team title by four strokes. Wilson, a plus-four handicapper, intends to put himself into contention for full England honours.

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www.bellinghamgolfclub.com NORTHERN GOLFER 27

GOLF SOCIETIES

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TEEINGOFF

Home comforts Success at South Moor sees tournament established as permanent venue

ground-breaking tournament for youngsters has been given a permanent home in the North East. Founded and organised by a former chairman of England Golf junior selectors Roy Case, the North of England Under-14 Open, which last year attracted entries from Hong Kong, South Africa and Spain, will be played at South Moor in mid-August. The course was designed by the same man who created Augusta National, Dr Alister MacKenzie. Between 1994 and 2007, Case steered the England junior team to two world titles plus victories in four European championships and eight home internationals. He managed players such as Justin Rose, Luke Donald and Danny Willett, Rose going on to become the 2013 US Open champion. Now lead partner

in the Nottinghamshire firm Golf Concepts LP, Case said: “The Under-14 tournament has been running at South Moor for two years and is a great success. “It is a lovely, challenging course but not too long which makes it a suitable test for players of this age group. “The idea behind the event is to give boys and girls not playing a national tournament at under-14 age level the opportunity to gain experience of a 54-hole competitive regional golf tournament.” The first winner in 2014 was Sheffield’s Barclay Brown, an England Boys international from the Hallamshire club who shared the title last year. Now 15, he plays off a handicap of plus-one, but he won’t be able to challenge for the hat-trick as he is now too old for the event. Sponsored by local government

South Moor Golf Club Yorkshire’s Barclay Brown a double winner of the event body Stanley Area Action Partnership, the tournament will stay at South Moor for ever if Case, a former England Golf president, has his way. He said: “This tournament will be held at South Moor in perpetuity. It is theirs to put on for as long as they want it. You could not ask for any more than the way Guy Carr and his enormous band of helpful volunteers have put so much into giving this event a flying start.”

We’re Open

Tournament rules allow boys and girls to play the course together. The event includes a separate section for under-12s plus handicap competitions for the whole field. Players as young as nine compete. The 2016 North of England Under-14 tournament will be played at South Moor on August 10-12. To enter visit www.northofenglandu14golf.co.uk

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Unit 8d, North Tyne Ind. Estate, NE12 9SZ Opposite ASDA Benton. Two minutes from A19 Whitley Bay Exit on A191 Old Coast Road NORTHERN GOLFER 29

DANNYWILLETT

30 NORTHERN GOLFER

DANNYWILLETT

Dan’s Masterclass in dedication W

hen Danny Willett arrived at Augusta National, few paid attention to the omens which would become the tale of his maiden major triumph. The 28-year-old landed in Georgia having welcomed his first child, Zachariah James, on March 29. Willett had vowed to miss the event, with Zach due on April 10 – Sunday of the 80th Masters Tournament. “If he fancies coming out early on, it would be great, but if not, I won’t be playing,” he said at the time. This year also marked 20 years since the last Englishman, Sir Nick Faldo, donned the green jacket in 1996. Willett’s wife Nicole, at home in the UK with Zach, was celebrating her 28th birthday on Sunday. His caddie, Jonathan Smart, wore number 89 for the week – the same number Jack Nicklaus’ caddie, and son, Jackie Jr. wore 30 years ago when Nicklaus won his 18th major and sixth green jacket. A stunning final round of 67 saw Willett presented with his green jacket by defending champion Jordan Spieth whose seemingly unstoppable march towards a second successive victory sank in Rae’s Creek the 12th. Willett described his victory as “crazy”, “surreal”, “mindboggling” and “something I can’t put into words.” A four-time winner on the European Tour, Willett added: “You can’t really describe the emotions and feelings. “We all go out there and try to play good golf. Fortunately today was my day. It was a very surreal day when you look back at the ebb and flows. “You’re so much involved in what you’re doing on the golf course, you do something special and it still doesn’t really sink in. I’ve won a couple of golf tournaments around the world, but this is just a different league. It’s going to take a while to sink in. “To win golf tournaments is what we dream of doing, it’s what we practise for, it’s what we play for. You dream about these kind of days – for them to happen is still mind-

boggling. People were saying ‘try to bring the Green Jacket home for the little man’. It’s a bit big, but I am sure he will grow into it.” Willett and his playing partner and runner-up, Close House attached pro Lee Westwood, could be reunited at the Northumberland golf resort next month as they are due to play in the golf day for the Children’s Heart Unit Fund. A later starter in golfing terms – he picked up a club aged 12 at a starter session at Birley Golf Club. Willett rose through the amateur ranks quickly, winning the English Amateur Championship in 2007 as a 19-year-old. Playing out of Rotherham Golf Club and one of four brothers, Willett would be dropped off at the club by his father, a vicar, and played alongside many of the county’s best young players in his teenage years. His impressive amateur career also included a stint in the US, playing college golf at Jacksonville State university for two seasons. He turned pro in 2008, earning his card in 2009 through Q School and winning his first event in 2012 at the BMW International Open in Cologne. Keith Dowswell, secretary of the Yorkshire Union of Golf Clubs, has known Willett since his teenage years competing in junior county events before progressing through the game. “Danny was 16 when I first came across him when he won the Sheffield Plate at Hallamshire Golf Club. He went on to represent Yorkshire Boys and Men, before playing for England and Great Britain & Ireland,” Dowswell said. “To have seen him progress the way he has - from a talented teenager to a major champion in just 12 years is truly remarkable. It couldn’t happen to a nicer young man, with a loving family behind him.” As Willett headed out of Amen Corner on Sunday, Jordan Spieth held a five shot lead at seven under-par having just birdied the ninth. He had led the Masters for seven consecutive rounds. The 22-year-old American, who became the second-youngest winner of the season’s first

Image credit: photogolfer / Shutterstock.com

Dean Bailey reflects on Danny Willett’s rise from Northern fairways to the champion of world golf after Masters success

NORTHERN GOLFER 31

DANNYWILLETT major in 2015, had just put together one of the best runs of the week with four birdies in a row to make the turn in 32. Having, by his own admission, hit the ball poorly during the week, Spieth hung his tee shot high and right at 12 – finding Rae’s Creek. The events that followed were not part of anyone’s script. Spieth dropped well back from the creek in the drop zone and hit his third shot into the water. The quadruple-bogey seven sent the American back to one under-par and gave Willett, who had parred the 15th, a two-shot lead from Westwood and Dustin Johnson. Having passed the giant scoreboard at the 15th, Willett knew he had the lead with three to play. His aggressive tee shot at 16, just six feet from the flag at the par three, which yielded three holes-in-one on Sunday, was perfect and led to birdie.t. With the tournament in his hands, Willett showed no sign of relinquishing his lead. Chipping from 80ft at the back of the 17th green, Willett played one of the best pressure shots in recent Masters history – making a tap-in par and getting a thumbs up from fellow Yorkshireman Billy Foster, Westwood’s caddie. Adrenaline flowing, Willett found the 18th fairway with a three wood before

Image credit: Chatchai Somwat / Shutterstock.com

a perfectly placed eight iron found the bank right of the flag and settled to 15ft. The very nervous putt which followed can be forgiven, given the situation, and the tap-in to win the Masters by two shots was the perfect close to one of the least expected wins in recent memory. There was no way back for Spieth. Runner up Westwood, who recorded his fifth top 10 finish in seven years at Augusta, and had played the first two rounds with legend Tom Watson in his final Masters appearance, said: “Not many people hole that one [his chip at the 15th] under that kind of pressure. To come out and contend in the first major of the year, obviously, I must be doing something right.” Westwood was joined in the top 10 by fellow Englishmen Paul Casey (one under), Sheffield’s Matt Fitzpatrick (level), and Justin Rose (one over). Keith Dowswell added: “To also have Matt Fitzpatrick in the top 10, and leading the greens in regulation stat at 20-years-old is remarkable. It’s a very proud day for golf in Yorkshire.” Here’s looking forward to Yorkshire puddings and roast beef on the menu for next year’s Champions’ Dinner at Augusta National.

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Teesside Golf Club Est 1901

Beautiful 18 hole Parkland course Visitors & Societies always welcome Visiting Party Packages 2016 (12 or more) Bronze £30.00 pp 18 Holes followed by a 2 course set meal Silver £42.50 pp 27 Holes, soup & sandwiches plus 3 course meal Gold £43.75 pp 27 Holes, soup & sandwiches plus 3 course carvery Parties of 24 or more will receive 2 FREE green fees Telephone the Secretary Steve Wood on 01642 616 516

email: teessidegolfclub@btconnect.com or visit our website www.teessidegolfclub.com

TOURLIFE

LEDA GOLF ROSEBERRY GRANGE GOLF CLUB, CHESTER-LE-STREET,DH2 3NF

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WITH EUROPEAN TOUR PLAYER CHRIS PAISLEY Since my last column in February I‘ve played over in Thailand and India - finishing 23rd in the latter. I’ve had a couple of weeks off lately with the WGCs and The Masters, so I have got a lot of preparation in ahead of a four week run of events in Spain, two in China, and finally Morocco. Though it’s not too exciting on the course, there’s lots of excitement off it. The European Tour is entering a new era, which I’m very excited to be part of. The Tour, and golf, have had a tough time recently. Declining participation means many clubs are struggling to stay afloat. As less people become interested in golf, sponsors have questioned their involvement. Enter Keith Pelley, the new European Tour CEO. From what I’ve seen so far, he is driven to close the gap between the European and PGA Tours. Not only in prize money, but in the number of tournaments, spectators, viewing figures, and quality of competition. Since his arrival, the Italian Open has gone from a €1.5m event to €3m in 2016, and then €7m for the following seven years. After years of stagnant prize funds, that is an incredible achievement. The Irish Open has increased by £1.5m, and we hear more tournaments are set to follow. Incredibly, the minimum prize money on the PGA Tour is $6m dollars, so we have a long way to go, but Pelley has made a lot of progress in a short time. There are also several smaller changes taking place, which will make the Tour much more spectator and sponsor friendly. We are now allowed to wear shorts on practice days, which doesn’t seem like much, but it will make golf more appealing to a wider audience. The Tour is also looking at holding skills challenges on pro am days, where players will participate in long drive, chipping, and putting contests – giving fans a chance to interact with players in a much more casual and entertaining atmosphere, and who doesn’t love a bit of friendly competition? While it is important that we don’t lose the things that makes golf what it is, we have to adapt. I’m very excited about the future of the European Tour!

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NORTHERN GOLFER 33 RGGC A4 FootGolf Poster-v4.indd 2

16/03/2016 10:54

GOLFGEAR

Gear up for new season Dean Bailey takes a look at the latest releases The golf season is finally here, which means now’s the time to get the benefit of some new equipment. This month sees the arrival of a new set of putters from

Odyssey, plus a wedge release from the legendary Roger Cleveland. We also feature some eye-catching trews, an innovate trolley from PowaKaddy, and more…

HOLE MORE PUTTS Odyssey Toe Up Putters RRP: £189 odysseygolf.com The creative folk at Odyssey have unveiled new Stroke Balanced technology in their latest line of Toe Up Putters. Utilising alternate forward weighting and toe-up balancing, these new flat sticks promote a consistent straight back and through stroke. Available in Tour favourite #1 and #9 Odyssey head shapes.

HELPING HAND FootJoy StaSof glove RRP: £20 footjoy.co.uk The 13th generation of FootJoy’s Cabretta leather StaSof glove, the world’s #1 Cabretta glove for over 35 years, is available now. Updated for 2016 following work with more than 800 of the world’s leading professionals, the StaSof is designed for a soft and comfortable feel - the tailored fit and quality making it the preferred glove for more major champions than any other.

LUCK OF THE IRISH Callaway MD3 Milled Lucky Clover Wedges RRP: £139.99 callawaygolf.com Launched on St Patrick’s Day, these limited edition wedges have been designed by the legendary Roger Cleveland. With a laseretched four-leaf clover, the 50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58° and 60° lofts come with a versatile s-ground sole and each has a grind package specific to its use.

34 NORTHERN GOLFER

POWAPLAY Powakaddy Touch RRP: from £399 powakaddy.co.uk PowaKaddy’s new Touch model boasts the trolley manufacturer’s latest technology, capable of changing pace as you do through a touch of the handle. The stylish trolley can also kitted out with the latest Plug’n’Play lithium batteries (£549 and £599 – extended range).

INTHEBAG

IN THE BAG NEWS OF THE TREWS

featuring Jason Day, winner of the Arnold Palmer Invitational and WGC Dell World Matchplay L.E.MORMILE / Shutterstock.com

Royal & Awesome trousers RRP: £49.99 royalandawesome.co.uk Stand out on the course with these new designs from the guys over at Royal & Awesome. With a huge range of designs – extended in 2016 – there’s something for every occasions, from the US-themed Pars and Stripes to the lucky Paddy Par! design. Paired with a matching cap, these will definitely help you stand out on the golf course.

THE KING IS BACK Cobra Golf King F6 Baffler 4/5 Fairway RRP: £179 cobragolf.co.uk Featuring Cobra’s rail system and the F6 adjustable weight technology, the new King F6 Baffler fairway wood aims to offer forgiveness with the option to deliver a penetrating or towering ball flight. Developed for headline staff player Rickie Fowler, the new fairway wood can be adjusted to lofts from 16-19 degrees.

Jason Day lifted two titles in March to record one of the M1 460 (10.5*) most successful stretches in PGA Tour history – with his second win in as many weeks, AeroBurner TP Fairway Day lifted his sixth trophy in (16.5* - plays to 14.5*) 13 starts. The win at Austin Country Club also sent Day back to the top of the Official World Golf Rankings. His Matchplay success – beating Rory McIlroy in the semi-final before beating Louis Oosthuizen in the final – extended the winning record RSi 2 (2-iron), RSi TP (4-PW) which began with his win at the PGA Championship last August. Here’s what was in his bag...

Ghost Spider Itsy Bitsy Prototype

Tour Preferred EF (bent to 48, 54, 60)

Tour Preferred X Golf Ball #87 NORTHERN GOLFER 35

GREENWATCH

EAGLESCLIFFE GOLF CLUB Founded 1914

Nestled beside the River Tees with the Cleveland Hills as a backdrop, the course has been described by Golf Monthly magazine as a ‘hidden gem’ of English golf. This 6289 yard James Braid course is both picturesque and demanding due to the nature of the rolling terrain and sloping greens which provides a challenge for both novice and experienced golfers alike.

GREEN WATCH

WITH JON WYER, ROCKLIFFE HALL

HEALTH AND SAFETY

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SEE EUROPE’S BEST YOUNG PROS IN THE NORTH EAST THIS SUMMER Longhirst Hall, June 29-July 1 Close House, July 27-29 Moor Allerton, Sep 21-23

With the lack of growth and maintenance requirements on the course at the moment, it is a perfect time to update and refresh the health and safety records. Working as a greenkeeper can often mean we are faced with various hazards while maintaining the course. Variables can change from day to day due to changing weather conditions. Each weather element has its own hazards be it sunburn, slippery and uneven terrain from rain, frost and snow or contact with debris in windy conditions. Alongside these conditions our working day involves using machinery and equipment such as utility vehicles and mowing equipment, all of which can cause harm in numerous ways with moving parts, sharp blades and hot engine parts. The operation of the

machine also has to be taken into consideration such as operating on slopes, operating near water and using the right piece of equipment per task. There are also a number of hazardous fertilizers and chemicals used on the course and it is our duty to make sure that the products are being used correctly and well within the guidelines given on the label. It is therefore necessary to constantly maintain all risk and COSHH assessments and update where required to reflect new working procedures, equipment and changes to the environment. These assessments not only help to keep our greenkeepers safe, but highlight hazards that could cause harm to golfers, public and other visitors.

NEXT MONTH Machinery servicing

WWW.EUROPROTOUR.COM 36 NORTHERN GOLFER

Four GOOD REASONS FOR

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Full Fee Membership - £450 for new members to 31st March 2017

FREE GOLF and REDUCED GREEN FEES for STOCKSFIELD MEMBERS

Full fee paying members get FREE golf at Tynemouth and Seahouses plus reduced green fees at South Moor, Boldon, Bishop Auckland, Saltburn, Kendal, Morpeth and Brampton

SOCIETIES & VISITORS from only £10pp - Weekend Availability

Book on line via our website for up to date deals or phone 01661 843041. We have weekend availability for casual visitors or society bookings throughout the summer

2016 OPENS - WIN A TRIP TO THE RYDER CUP AND US MASTERS!

All Opens bookable on line via our website or by phoning 01661 843041. US Masters and Ryder Cup trip qualifiers are on 19th June (2 person scramble) and 23rd July (Gents 4BBB Pairs) MIDWEEK OPENS - Gents Singles Stableford 10th May, 7th June, 12th July, 2nd August, 6th September SENIORS OPEN 3 MAN TEXAS SCRAMBLE - 19th May

MIXED OPEN PAIRS GREENSOME - Stroke 22 May LADIES 3 TEAM OPEN - Texas Scramble 8th June LADIES 4 PERSON TEAM WALTZ - 4 August

US MASTERS TRIP QUALIFIER 2 PERSON TEAM TEXAS SCRAMBLE 19 June GENTS OPEN (RYDER CUP TRIP QUALIFIER) 4BBB PAIRS - STABLEFORD 23 July SENIORS OPEN - GENTS SENIOR FOUR BALL BETTERBALL 27 September

Get into golf

Details via www.getintogolf.org PLUS LADIES «TASTER DAY» - Saturday 7th May for ladies who want to take up the game. Phone our Pro Steve Harrison on 01661 843041 (option2) STOCKSFIELD GOLF CLUB, NEW RIDLEY, STOCKSFIELD NE43 7RE

t: 01661 843041 e: info@stocksfieldgolfclub.co.uk w: www.stocksfieldgolfclub.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 37

GOLFERNEWS

Dayne is Head boy D Hawkins in charge at Flamborough ayne Hawkins is the new golf manager and head professional at Flamborough Head - and he’s loving every minute of it. Brought in to run the club and look after members and guests, he said: “I’m very excited about the up coming Bridlington Festival Week in May. “It’s on May 2-7 and to have three clubs, who are in close proximity to each other, working together we’re sure to make a great success of the week. “This club has the motto The Friendliest Club on the East Coast and, boy, do they live up to it!” Dayne has moved into the area with his wife and two children and he is already

making plans to expand the club’s junior programme. “I will be starting the junior training in April on Wednesday and Friday evenings and I’m hoping in the very near future to expand this to include two afternoon sessions each day. “My goal with the juniors is to get as many kids who haven’t played out on to the course as soon as possible. “The club has also asked me to look into different ways to attract new members and I have made that one of my priorities. I intend to be very proactive in offering golf for the whole family. “Golf has traditionally been male dominated and we need to make it family friendly and the committee has welcomed

Dayne Hawkins

this approach with open arms and I hope to see more parents with kids participating.” A full member of both the PGA and GCMA, Dayne is also a member of Foremost Golf buying group which enables him to give members and visitors the same service they might get at a larger facility.

CHARITY GOLF DAY 2016 IN AID OF

ST OSWALD’S HOSPICE Thursday, July 7th, 2016 at Northumberland Golf Club 1.30pm shotgun start Teams of four are £350 and includes lunch, 2 course evening meal, prize giving and raﬄe. Maximum of 20 teams

ERS INN

To reserve your team contact Gillian Corney, tel 01661 844115 email gary@oﬀstonepublishing.co.uk

ST YEAR’S A L

Sponsored by: bowesmitchell.com

NORTHUMBRIAN WATER www.svrutterltd.co.uk

38 NORTHERN GOLFER

www.northerngolfer.co.uk

Reg charity no: 503386

GOLFERNEWS

Brown is new boss Chris takes over the reins at Hexham

exham is gearing up for the start of the golfing season with a new club manager in Chris Brown. Brown has moved to Hexham - one of Northumberland’s most iconic layouts - after six years in a similar role at Boldon. “I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Boldon,” he said, “but the opportunity to progress with Hexham was too good to turn down. My role here is to continue nurturing a happy club and provide first-class facilities for the membership and our guests.” It’s been a busy start for Chris, with the club’s three captains

driving in recently followed by the annual Captain v Presidents match. Besides Chris’s arrival, Hexham also has a new steward in Russell Wilson, while on the course work has been ongoing to provide a short-game practice area and a practice par three hole. “We’re keen to see more families playing the game and we’re working closely with our pro Andrew Paisley to make it easier for anyone to take up the game,” added Chris, who is a member at Durham City and was a mortgage broker prior to getting into golf club management. With two squash courts as well

Chris Brown and family friendly approach to both sports, Hexham is proving as popular as ever. The golf course and clubhouse really speaks for itself, Hexham moving from a nine-hole layout alongside the River Tyne in 1907 to Spital Park and in 1951 the club bought the Spital estate which included the house - now a Grade

I-listed building - which became the clubhouse, and 70 acres of parkland which became a very fine course designed with the help of Harry Vardon. Ryder Cup player Harry Weetman described it as one of the most beautiful settings for golf he had discovered in his career - and he wasn’t wrong.

SWING INTO THE 2016 GOLF SEASON with Marshalls Golf

NEW 2016 Equipment, Clothing, Shoes & Accessories in stock - All Major Brands at Hard to Beat prices!! Clearance Sale on Galvin Green, Under Armour and Lyle & Scott Autumn Winter Clothing Branded Drivers from only £10 - call in and pick up a bargain! Golf Lessons with Warren Marshall Class A P.G.A Professional 45 minutes £20 or 6 for £100 Indoors on our simulator or outdoors on the course

TELEPHONE: ADRIAN OR WARREN ON 0191 4384223 Heworth Golf Club, Gingling Gate, Heworth, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, NE10 8XY

NORTHERN GOLFER 39

GOLFERNEWS

Whitley to host final

Last year’s winners Yvonne and Rachel Woodcock Whitley Bay in Northumberland and North Yorkshire’s Forest Park will both host an area final in this year’s Peugeot LGU Coronation Foursomes. It’s the 53rd year of the Coronation Foursomes and last year around 27,000 golfers from 1,250 clubs took part. All affiliated clubs are eligible to enter and once they have played their qualifying round, the winners progress to any one of 16 area finals. Whitley Bay will stage their area final on August 1 and Forest Park will play host on August 18. The winners from each of the 16 Area Finals will take part in the Grand Final, which will be held in St Andrews on Monday September 19.

Cash boost Golf is of enormous benefit to the UK economy according to figures realised by the R&A. Golfers in the United Kingdom spent £4.3bn on their sport in 2014, accounting for 14% of all consumer spending on sport, and golf paid £990m in taxes according to an independent report published by Sheffield Hallam University’s Sport Industry Research Centre. More than half of consumer spending on golf, £2.2bn, was channeled through the UK’s near 3,000 golf clubs. Golf equipment and clothing accounted for £939m of consumer expenditure and golf related tourism, events and accommodation a further £775m. The report, which was funded by The R&A, highlights that the golf industry in the UK employs 74,480 people with a third employed directly by golf clubs in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. 40 NORTHERN GOLFER

James Maw

Joe Dean

Pole position

Region’s top young players secure cards for 2016 EuroPro Tour

oe Dean, James Maw and Nick McCarthy were among the players who secured full playing rights on the HotelPlanner.com PGA EuroPro Tour with strong performances in Final Stage Qualifying School at Frilford Heath Golf Club in Oxfordshire. Lindrick golfer Dean (Hillsborough Golf Club) was English Amateur champion in 2015 and finished third in the First Stage Qualifying School tournament at Mottram Hall, one of six played across the UK, to book his place at Frilford Heath. There he recovered from an opening round 78 to card two below-par rounds of 67 and 68 and cement his full card on Europe’s third-tier tour. Maw and McCarthy had been exempt through to Final Stage on the back of their finial position on the tour’s 2015 Order of Merit and made no mistake in ensuring they resecured the highest available category, guaranteeing them entry into every event they wish to play on the EuroPro Tour this summer. Maw (Rockliffe Hall) finished second behind Cornwall’s Billy

Downing, who finished the threeround event at 10 under-par. Maw was just one back in a tie for second, and is taking a lot of confidence from that performance into the new EuroPro season, which begins back at Frilford Heath on May 18. “I struggled last year, which meant I had to go back to qualifying,” said Maw. “But the performance at Q School gives me a good confidence boost going into the new season. “I have played the EuroPro for a few years now but haven’t found a win. Getting over the line is a big thing and winning breeds winning, so if I can win one then I might go again and then you’re looking at a top five finish.” McCarthy (Moortown Golf Club) shot three rounds of 70 to take fourth place in qualifying. After two strong seasons in 2013 and 2014 his fortunes were reversed last year but he has ensured another full season on the tour with a successful Qualifying School performance. Richard Law (Low Laithes Golf Club) also regained a full card at Q School, while Joe Coyle (Burstwick

Country Golf) and Callum Tarren (Rockliffe Hall) were among the region’s other success stories at EuroPro Qualifying. The HotelPlanner.com PGA EuroPro Tour season gets underway in May and visits the region three times this summer. Longhirst Hall plays host from June 29-July 1, Close House welcomes the tour July 27-29, and Moor Allerton Golf Club will see the final event of the regular season from September 21-23. For full results and this year’s schedule go to www.europrotour.com

Nick McCarthy

Blackwell supporting Cancer Trust Blackwell Grange Golf Club hosts a charity golf day in aid of the Teenage Cancer Trust on May 13, with a Ford Fiesta for the first golfer lucky enough to make a hole-in-one at the par three

ninth. The event, which is open to teams of men and women, is £25 per person to enter and includes breakfast, dinner, prizes and a beat the pro challenge. For more information, and to enter,

contact the club, tel 01325 464 458 or book online at www.blackwellgrangegolf.com

PLAY MORE ENJOY MORE WITH GREAT OFFERS ON GREEN FEES MIDWEEK 4 BALL FOR £80 Before 3pm

£15 PER PERSON After 3pm every day

LEEDSGOLFCENTRE.COM BOOK NOW ON 0113 288 6000

9 HOLES FOR £9 Afer 6pm every day

GOLFERNEWS

Charity champions The Northern Golfer Charity Golf Day returns in July, and we round-up some of the great events you can take part in this summer

he 2016 Northern Golfer Charity Golf Day takes place at Northumberland Golf Club on July 7, in aid of St Oswald’s Hospice, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary. The event is sponsored by Newcastlebased building company SV Rutter Ltd and Bowes Mitchell Estate Agents, and will see 20 teams take on the host venue for Local Qualifying for the Open. Teams of four will compete for the trophy with the best two scores on each

The Northumberland Club

hole counting in a shotgun start format. Teams for the event are £350, including lunch and evening meal. Northern Golfer editor Paul Robertson said: “The hospice is a fantastic charity and we are delighted to be supporting it in its 30th year. The generous sponsorship of Bowes Mitchell and SV Rutter means every penny of the entry fee will go to St Oswald’s.” St Oswald’s Hospice provides specialist hospice care to North East adults, young people and children with life-limiting

conditions. With annual running costs of more than £10m, the charity relies on support from fundraising activities across the region to continue its services. The third Northern Golfer Charity Golf Day follows the success of the 2015 event, which saw golfers from around the region play the new Cathedral Course at Ramside Hall and raise money for Newcastle-based NGO No Strings. For more information contact Gillian Corney, email gillian@offstonepublishing. co.uk or tel 01661 844 115

Stars out for COCO

ow in its 13th year, the Steve Cram Celebrity Golf Day returns to Slaley Hall June 23, with a host of sportspeople and celebrities set to join amateur golfers from around the UK to raise money for COCO. To date, the event has raised more than £210,000 for COCO, which works alongside communities in East Africa to 42 NORTHERN GOLFER

The Celebrity line up provide sustainable solutions to the problems preventing children from accessing education. Last year, Durham cricketers Paul Collingwood, Graham Onions, Scott Borthwick and Phil Mustard joined Newcastle United legends

Steve Harper and Steve Howey, FA Cup-winning Sunderland goalkeeper Jim Montgomery, and rugby union’s Roger Uttley and Rory Underwood supported the Jarrow Arrow. Teams of three to be joined by a celebrity are £800. Teams of four

without a celebrity are £500, and the event will be followed with a presentation dinner at Slaley Hall. Contact Lucy Bewley lucy@extramileme.com or call 01434 689 040. For more on COCO’s work visit www.coco.org.uk

GOLFERNEWS

PLAY YORKSHIRE’S OLDEST AND ONLY CHAMPIONSHIP TRUE LINKS COURSE OPENS 2016

Flying high

olfers from across the region will head to South Moor in May for a tournament supporting the work of the Great North Air Ambulance. The flying doctors and paramedics are dependent on donations and race into action to rescue severely ill or injured people more than 1,000 times a year - at an average cost of around £2,500 per mission. The South Moor Charity Shield takes place on May 27, the club’s lady captain’s day, with teams

(£60 per fourball) still available for the event. South Moor ladies captain Pam Tate, who chose the charity, said: “The Air Ambulance rely on public generosity to function and survive and their care is of the highest standard as well as pioneering.” Entries should be made by post to Pam Tate, Springwell, Langley Park, Co Durham DH7 9YB, email pamtate1932@gmail.com. Enclose a cheque for £60 payable to SMGC Ladies Section, as well as each player’s home club, handicap and email address.

24th April - Cleveland Salver £25.00 6th May - 1st Seniors Open £20.00 pair 26th June - Coors Open £20.00 pair 21st August - Gents Open £20.00 pair Ladies Open Friday 26th August £32.00 team 27th August - Mayors Cup £8.00 Mixed Open Team of 4 Sunday 28th August £32.00 team 29th August - 3 Man Team £30 team 26th September - 2nd Senior Open £25.00 pair (Incl Bacon & Coffee) Visitors & Societies welcome Golf Packages from £28 per person Memberships available. Ring for details

Telephone the Secretary 01642 471798 or email majuba@btconnect.com CLEVELAND GOLF CLUB Majuba Road, Redcar, Cleveland, TS10 5BJ www.cleveland-golf-club.com

Newcastle United Golf Club Est.1892

Captain Yvonne Setchell presenting the cheque to Rebecca Scott, community fundraiser North East for the Alzheimer’s Society

Great effort

Houghton-le-Spring Golf Club has joined the battle against dementia with last year’s Lady Captain Yvonne Setchell choosing the Alzheimer’s Society as her charity.

Throughout the year, a series of fundraising activities took place at the Co Durham club and members raised a total of £860.60 for the charity.

Charity event kicks off Alnwick Town Football Club is hosting its annual golf day on May 30 at Alnwick Castle Golf Club. Sponsored by Lionheart Garage, places are still available for the fourball betterball and are £30 per pair including coffee and bacon roll on arrival and a goodie bag. For more information, and to

Full 7 Day Membership - £627.00 | 5 Day Membership - £525.00

Lady Memberships Available - Call for Details Flexible Payment Terms Available Saturday 28th May - Moor 36 Scratch Open Society Offers 2016 Coffee & Bacon Roll / 18 Holes £20.00 Coffee & Bacon Roll / 18 Holes / Soup & Sandwich £23.00 Coffee & Bacon Roll / 18 Holes / 2 Course Meal £27.00

Green Fees (Fri 1st April 2016 – Fri 28th October 2016) Weekday Round £18.00 Per Person Weekday Special (After 1pm) £50.00 per 4 ball Weekend Round £20.00 Per Person Weekend Special (After 1pm) £60.00 per 4 ball

enter, contact Ian Hogg, tel 07809 474 526 or Brian Brooks, tel 07738 933 209

60 Ponteland Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE5 3JW Tel 0191 2869998 Ext2 or email: liam1892@googlemail.com NORTHERN GOLFER 43

GOLFERNEWS

Wear going places Refurbishment marks ongoing improvements at Wearside

earside Golf Club is rightly proud of a long and colourful history. With its 125th anniversary approaching - the Coxgreen club has continued to steadily develop its course and facilities. What started life as a nine-hole course on the banks of the River Wear became 18 holes in 1901 with the input of six-time Open Champion Harry Vardon. Wearside has had three clubhouses on site since 1892. The first clubhouse was damaged by fire in 1909 and its replacement was also hit by fire which led to the current clubhouse being opened in 1956. Over the years various improvements have taken place and now a month-long complete refurbishment has now been carried out to give members and

visitors a top-class bar, club lounge and dining room. Locker room improvements are next on the list and Wearside also continues to upgrade and improve the course based on changes suggested by course architect Howard Swan. This included a realigned ninth hole, holes 13 and 14 played as one with new 13th, 16th and 17th holes and a remodelled seventh green and enlarged tee. A new 18th tee has been built plus levelling an extending the eighth tee, and enlarging and heightening the ladies 15th tee. Recently, 75 established trees - some of them 25ft in height planted during the club’s centenary year, were moved to new positions to transform several fairways and areas were set aside for the planting of whips to have established trees

Wearside’s newly refurbished clubhouse lounge and bar to replace the current crop. Newly reshaped bunkers at the first, seventh and 18th holes have also contributed towards a revamping of the 6,500 yard Coxgreen course and further improvement projects are in the pipeline including an academy based on the club’s massive practice area and six-hole short course. The club also held its first open day last year with help from England Golf, the Durham Golf

Partnership, Sunderland Golf Centre and Swing Solutions. The practice areas were open to all-comers to experience Footgolf, Trigolf and Urban Golf with free lessons available from club professional Steve McNally.

Washington fits the bill

George Washington golf course 44 NORTHERN GOLFER

he launch of a new custom-fit facility next month is another step forward for George Washington Golf Club. As well as the custom fit operation in partnership with Ping, TaylorMade and Callaway, a new range of clothing with big names such as J Lindeberg, Oscar Jacobson, Adidas and Greg Norman is nothing less than you’d expect from one of the North East’s leading golf clubs. A true championship course of more than 6,600 yards with five par fives and par of 73 in a terrific 325-acre setting along with a new 16 bay heated driving range - with indoor and outdoor teaching bays six with Powertees plus FlightScope

is available for lessons and Custom Fit. New Members are welcome and the Flexi Membership deal at £260 is proving popular with today’s busy golfer. There is a five-hole par three course, short game/bunker practice area and putting green, and an academy offering coaching from Gary Shipley, a PGA Qualified coach, who has worked with county teams in Surrey, Berkshire, Essex and Ryan Ingram, also a fully qualified PGA Professional with six years of coaching experience and newly appointed Durham County Coach. Both coaches will be working hard with England Golf as the Club has been appointed as a Get into Golf Centre for ladies over this summer.

GOLFERNEWS

Alnwick F.

Alnwick Town F.C. Golf Day at Alnwick Golf Club May 30th 2016 Bank Holiday Monday sponsored by

Town Seaton pro Clifford Jackson

Seaton’s short course

4 BBB Stableford, CONGU handicap 3/4 allowance, must be 16 or over - £30 pair includes coffee/bacon roll on arrival & goody bag - Tee off from 8.30 am Cash prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd plus a FANTASTIC hole in one prize on the 4 par 3’s! For entry form or further details telephone Ian Hogg 07809 474526 or Alnwick Golf Club 01665 602632

eaton Carew has joined the drive to provide more opportunities for people to try out golf by opening a new academy short course. More clubs are opting for a sixhole short courses which offer the chance for beginners and families to play together and enjoy the game in an hour or two without the pressure of being caught up with more experienced players on bigger course. Seaton has also backed up the opening of the academy course with new membership offers for those looking to give golf a go. The 610-yard academy layout has been constructed parallel with the main course’s second hole and it is hoped it will attract golfers of all ages. “People are searching for greater flexibility and want to see more value for their money,” said the club’s PGA professional Clifford Jackson. “There are people shopping around looking to see if they can save money at different courses and people use driving ranges more so we are working towards our inspired facility project with the view that we can make a success of it too. Academy course memberships for the under-12s is £25 and allows access to the main course – which held the Brabazon Trophy (the England Strokeplay Championship) two years ago – when accompanied by a parent.

Visitors & Societies Welcome Seaton’s Clifford Jackson with some of the club’s academy youngsters Academy course membership is only £50 for the 18s and under, while over 18s can pay £125. There is also an offer as part of the Get into Golf programme where those tempted can pay £250 to play the sixhole track as well as the main course after 2pm for 12 months. Seaton Carew, together with Durham County and England Golf, will run courses for ladies and men as part of the Get into Golf programme during April and May. For further information and to book direct log onto www.getintogolf.org/durham

Golf Parties 2016

12 or more From £23 per person includes Tea or coffee and bacon butties on arrival + 18 holes Other packages available to suit all requirements Telephone the Secretary on 0191 5342518

Open Competitions 2016

Now taking entries for all our events please visit www.wearsidegolfclub.co.uk or Telephone the Secretary on 0191 5342518 Cox Green, Sunderland, SR4 9JT NORTHERN GOLFER 45

GOLFERNEWS

Bower in GB squad

The Golf Factory ??? Jamie Bower’s success in South Africa has brought its reward. The 22-year-old Yorkshire golfer has been named in the Great Britain and Ireland squad for the St Andrews Trophy in July. It would have been something of a shock had the Meltham player not been in the running for the team to play at Prince’s Golf Club in Kent on July 20-21 - he is the only player from the region to make the squad, which will be captained by Scotland’s Craig Watson, and faces the Continent of Europe in the biennial match. Bower has been in fine form early this season with success in South Africa, winning the Gauteng North Open and the Southern Cape Open.

Junior tour The North’s mini tour for junior golfers is going from strength to strength with more events and new sponsors for 2016. The competition is now in its eighth year and features a string of qualifying events in Durham, Cumbria and Northumberland before the leading players from each area take part in the end of season regional finale. Last year Durham emerged triumphant at Carus Green in Cumbria. This year’s competition is being backed by lead sponsor Macdonald Hotels and Resorts, with further support from junior golf clothing company Chinny Dipper. The 2016 schedule includes an additional qualifying round and entries are now open. The competitions are open to boys between the ages of eight and 12 with girls also able to play up to the age of 13. 46 NORTHERN GOLFER

Inside The Golf Factory

The Golf Factory

Gearing up for bargain hunters

Business recycling equipment attracting interest overseas

he Golf Factory is a shop run by golfers for golfers - but there’s a bit more to it than that. Based on West Road at Denton Burn, it has become something of a legend among avid golfers, especially those who love to tinker with or change their equipment. “My customers say it’s like an Aladdin’s Cave and they feel like kids in a sweet shop when they come in,” says owner Ronnie Tweedy. Ronnie reckons he is the largest used golf equipment shop in the North East and says he will buy, sell and trade any golf gear be it clubs shoes or clothing. “It all started about four years ago when golfers use to come to my home because my conservatory was like a pro shop,” said Ronnie. “Then about 18 months ago my wife Tracey, who also works with me, said we should look for somewhere to store the clubs as she wanted her conservatory back!” That idea has since grown into The Golf Factory which has proven hugely popular with customers who know they can mix and match and buy and sell back clubs and golf gear. Ronnie was working full time in education when he first became involved in buying and selling golf gear and would open his shop in

the evening. In December 2015 he decided to open the Golf Factory full time. “My customers and friends helped me so much because the shop needed loads of work doing and special thanks must go to my in-laws Mick and Shirley - without their help and support we would have struggled.” Perhaps that’s why Ronnie and the Golf Factory are also active in supporting charities and also sponsor a couple of junior golfers, 10-year-old Jamie from the Tyneside club and Millie, who’s nine and plays at Matfen. And The Golf Factory’s customers aren’t just local. Ronnie has customers in America, Canada and even Croatia and the shop is not simply a shop as there is a fully functional repair centre where clubs can be repaired, reshafted, regripped, shortened or lengthened plus there’s an ultrasonic club cleaner. There is also a putting lane and a golf simulator bay in which clubs can be tried and customers can play over 50 courses such as Augusta, Pebble Beach, St. Andrews and Wentworth. For more information go to www.thegolffactory.co.uk or contact Ronnie on ronnie@thegolffactory.co.uk, tel 07837 001527.

GOLFERNEWS

Bedlingtonshire Golf Club

Enjoy our Golfing experience

Memberships available from 1st April including intermediate categories - ring for prices Free coaching and Junior Development Club for Junior Members (under 16’s) VISITORS & SOCIETIES ALWAYS WELCOME CONTACT LAYLA LEVY, CLUB SECRETARY ON 01670 822457 (9am - 1pm) EMAIL: SECRETARY@BEDLINGTONGOLFCLUB.COM WWW.BEDLINGTONGOLFCLUB.COM

Roger Jones

Taking Stock

Club incentives after a wet winter of discontent

here’s a double incentive for Stocksfield members and guests this year. Anyone entering the Northumberland club’s Open Competitions in June and July could have the chance of winning a trip to the 2017 US Masters or this year’s Ryder Cup at Hazeltine. The club is staging a two-person Texas scramble on June 19, which offers the opportunity of winning a trip to next year’s Masters and on July 23, the club’s men’s open for scratch and handicap pairs will also offer the chance to qualify to win a trip to this year’s Ryder Cup. “We ran the US Masters qualifier last year and it proved very successful with members and visitors as it is only two rounds away from winning a fantastic trip to the US Masters courtesy of Golf in Scotland and Your Golf Travel,” said secretary/manager Roger Jones. Along with many other clubs, Stocksfield has endured a difficult few months in the face of the wettest winter on record. “The wet weather did hit us hard on and off the course,” said Roger. “We know we are not the driest course in the winter but this year we - and many others really suffered. “Unfortunately, it also did contribute to testing the patience of some members.” However, Stocksfield has addressed

that and a positive outlook going into the new season means they are looking to add variation and extra value for its members and visitors. Along with having a flexible midweek membership category of £349, prospective members can also take advantage of an introductory offer of £99 for three months’ membership. “When people get here they don’t just enjoy the course, but also our friendly and social atmosphere off it as well,” he said. Stocksfield has also increased the list of reciprocal green fee partnerships with other clubs with the objective of rewarding membership. Full fee Stocksfield members can now get free golf at Tynemouth and Seahouses plus substantially reduced green fees at Boldon, South Moor, Bishop Auckland, Kendal, Morpeth, Saltburn and Brampton. Stocksfield is holding a ladies taster session on Saturday, May 7 for any ladies who are thinking of taking up the game. Apply directly to the club professional Steve Harrison on 01661 843 041 (option two). Off the course, the club is also looking forward to welcoming new catering team Graham and Val White next month and discussions are ongoing regarding the possibility of developing land for housing, using the funds to improve the golf course and, possibly, a new clubhouse.

Acorn Bank, Hartford Road, Bedlington, Northumberland, NE22 6AA

Business Membership Opportunity

Limited Offer At Hexham we have a wide range of services available to enable your golf to work alongside your business Your membership entitles you to a fantastic golf package which includes:

• One four ball per day Sunday p.m to Friday • Free Tee Sponsorship worth £750 promoting your company name to thousands of golfers

• No green fees for your Corporate Golf Day (up to a maximum of 60 players) • 10% discount on food and beverages • Free room hire for conferences and meetings • No need to name beneficiaries, the card provides for up to four players on presentation

For further information please contact the Club Manager on 01434 603072 ext 1 who would be delighted to talk through the various options with you.

Spital Park, Hexham, NE46 3RZ Tel: 01434 603072 - email: info@hexhamgolf.co.uk www.hexhamgolf.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 47

GOLFERCOMPETITIONS

win

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

Please include your contact details and telephone number. Closing date Thursday May 5 2016. Usual competition rules apply – available on request. Winners will be published in our next edition.

.WIN GOLF FOR FOUR EAGLESCLIFFE GOLF CLUB. One of Teesside’s best courses, Eaglescliffe presents a tough test for all golfers and remains a firm favourite. Measuring 6,289 yards from the back tees, the course at Eaglescliffe was designed by James Braid, while Henry Cotton undertook the design of four new holes in 1968. For your chance to win answer this question: Who designed Augusta National, home of The Masters?

.WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT ALLENDALE GOLF CLUB.

.WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT WILTON GOLF CLUB.

Allendale Golf Club sits in the hills of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This high terrain, rising above 500m, frames the course to the south and west and dominates first impressions. The course is a great antidote to every new 7,000 yard course being designed for big hitters.

Set in the heart of Teesside, Wilton Golf Club is a golfing oasis. The 6,220-yard parkland layout may be short by today’s standards, but is by no means a pushover. With half a dozen par fours around the 400-yard mark and some testing approach shots, accuracy is essential at Wilton.

For your chance to win answer this question: Which club hosts this year’s Open Championship?

For your chance to win answer this question: What nationality is current world number one Jason Day?

Congratulations to last month’s competition winners: Castle Eden: Phillip Ward of Carlisle South Moor: Doug Lewis of Cramlington Wearside: Philip Kearsley of Barnsley

Backworth Golf Club A MUST PLAY HIDDEN GEM IN NORTH TYNESIDE

Membership for the 2016 season NOW AVAILABLE Summer green fees 18 holes £18 9 hole special £10 Societies welcome

Telephone the Manager John Robinson 0191 2684274

Telephone 0191 2689131 for course availability, information and events Email: backworthminers@virgin.net • www.backworthminers.co.uk/golf The Hall, Backworth, NE27 0AH 48 NORTHERN GOLFER

MAGDALENE FIELDS GOLF CLUB Berwick upon Tweed TD15 1NE

GREEN FEE SPECIAL Monday to Friday tee off between 10.30 to 11.30 £5 Per person - maximim of 4 people per booking Valid until 31st October 2016 Excellent Visiting Party Packages For further details telephone the Secretary on 01289 306130 e: secretary.m.f.g.c@hotmail.co.uk www.magdalene-fields.co.uk

COURSEREVIEW

Ripon revamp reaps rewards A trip to Ripon, a club undergoing redevelopment on and off the course, is one Alan Hedley highly recommends

here are some gorgeous courses in North Yorkshire and Ripon City is right up there with the best of them. At just over 6,000 yards, this 18-hole parkland course is set in a stunning landscape and can rightly claim to be one of the most improved courses in the North. The club is more than halfway through a Swann Golf Designs redevelopment plan which includes new bunkering with exciting greens and challenging features. However, with generous

50 NORTHERN GOLFER

fairways, it’s an ideal test for golfer of all abilities which is proven by its popularity with visitors and societies. Among the attractions off the course is a splendid modern clubhouse with views of four greens, including the signature hole 14th. It has excellent facilities, a new chef and well-stocked golf shop run by new pro Craig Helliwell. Unusually, Ripon opens with a short hole of around 150 yards with a pond on the left, followed by par four to a tiered green with a dry ditch short

and then there’s a par five with a drive across a ravine and a sloping raised green. Get the picture? It may look relatively easy, but it’s not. - you have to work for your score here. The fourth offers some superb views as the fairway descends and then sweeps up to the green. It also demands an accurate drive to avoid the trees and ravine while the raised green again makes club selection key. The second par three marks the start of Ripon’s own Amen Corner with a tee shot over a deep ravine while tall trees line the hole. The views at the next - the highest point on the course - are simply fantastic. If you avoid the oak tree on top of the ravine with your drive you’re faced by an approach to another sloping green protected three bunkers. Stop to savour the scenery, especially from the next tee where there’s a beautiful view of Ripon Minster and the Ure valley, and then have a look at this par three with nearly a 100ft descent to a green which is difficult to read. The front nine closes with two scoring

COURSEREVIEW

FACT FILE CONTACT Ripon City Golf Club, Palace Road Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3HH Tel: 01765 603 640 Email: secretary@riponcitygolfclub.com or admin@riponcitygolfclub.com Professional: Craig Helliwell Tel: 01765 603 640 opt 2 Email: helliwellcraig@aol.com

Ripon is very much part of the golfing landscape and local community. It has a vibrant membership and is friendly, welcoming new faces and visitors alike. The club runs a big open week, a pub challenge, a sports club challenge, has reciprocal links with Eaglescliffe and Richmond, exchange days with Selby and Bradford and no fewer than 11 open events - entry forms are on the website. Ripon has also been asked to stage one of the events on the Yorkshire Golf Tour

GREEN FEES All days £36 Check website for offers and special off-peak rates TOTAL DISTANCE White tees 6,084 Yellow tees 5,780 Red tees 5,519 chances, both short par fours - a welcome bit of a respite! A classic dogleg starts the back nine and a driver may not be the best option as a pond sits to the right at around 220 yards but it is a driver at the 11th, a monster par four albeit with a wide fairway. It’s followed by a shorter, but arguably more challenging par four with a green beautifully framed by water to the left and bunker to the right. The par five 13th is a good birdie chance but the green is well bunkered and the tee shot at the signature 14th is a highlight (see fact file). Avoiding the deep bunkers at 15 and 16 the latter is a nice driving hole - is key and 17 is another classic dogleg without any bunkers but there is a pond to the left of the green to avoid. The 18th is a superb finishing hole - the fairway bunker left is in play and at the crest of the fairway the approach is picturesque to a green with water and bunkers protecting the two-tier green.

FEATURES Covered floodlit driving range Practice ground Putting green Pitching and chipping area Professional’s shop Buggy and trolley hire Members and visitors changing rooms Ground floor bar and lounge Spike bar CADDY’S TIP Club selection is the key here. Accuracy is generally rewarded. SIGNATURE HOLE The 14th - measuring around 160 yards is an absolute delight. Spectators behind you in the clubhouse, a large pond with a fountain between you and the green…what could possibly go wrong. Just smack that tee shot to the centre of the green and take a bow

OUR VERDICT One of the best courses in Yorkshire with first-class facilities. A must visit

NORTHERN GOLFER 51

GOLF BR E AK S AT M ACDONALD DOÑA LOL A

1 IN 8 GOES FREE WHEN BOOKED BY 31ST MAY 2016

Macdonald Doña Lola on the Costa Del Sol is a paradise for golfers. With over 25 fantastic golf courses within an hour’s drive including the amazing Valderrama, we will make sure you are teeing off at some of the finest courses in no time.

THREE NIGHTS AND THREE ROUNDS OF GOLF FROM

£205

SEVEN NIGHTS AND FIVE ROUNDS OF GOLF FROM

£449

WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/RESORTS

TO BOOK: CALL 0344 879 9100 OR EM AIL RESORT.RESERVATIONS @M ACDONALD-HOTELS.CO.UK QUOTE: NG16

PER PERSON

GOLFERTRAVEL

Golfing in Europe Montgomerie 7th Hole

There’s only one way to guarantee a game of golf in the sunshine – pack up your clubs and try these

n recent years, Turkey has staked a major claim as one of Europe’s finest destinations for the travelling golfer. Significant development of the Belek region, with a number of quality courses, coupled with good weather, competitive prices and very good hotels has been the key. In a compact and easy to travel around area, several courses are on offer - the Sultan and Pasha, Faldo Cornelia, Sueno, Gloria, Carya, The National and the superb Lykia Links, as well as The Montgomerie Maxx Royal - the best of the bunch. Belek is also just 45km from Antalya and its airport. The Turkish Airlines World Golf Finals held at the Maxx Royal underlined the quality of the course. Umbrella pine trees dominate Monty’s creation and their presence calls for accurate play. The course covers more than 260 acres of prime parkland and is just a stone’s throw from the sea. There are eight lakes dotted around the course, and add in fast and tricky greens and this is no pushover. The course stretches to more than 7,000 yards from the back, but there is a lot of flexibility with four tees shortening the course to as little as 5,429 yards. Just

five minutes walk from the five-star hotel, the course also boasts a five-star clubhouse with a terrace overlooking the 18th. Many of the courses here are adjacent to hotels, with many operating on an all-inclusive basis. Like the Maxx, Carya, Sueno and Lykia have all attracted rave reviews. With flights from regional airports including Newcastle, there is a lot going for golf in this part of the world. Carya is a heathland-style course designed by five-times Open Champion Peter Thomson and from the championship tees, the 7,186 yard course is a demanding test, but eminently playable from the regular tees at 6,366 yards. Nick Faldo’s Cornelia course is an excellent challenge as it weaves its way through sand dunes, umbrella pines and lakes. There are 27 holes which can be played in different combinations to make up the King, Queen and Prince courses. Sueno is another complex with a spectacular hotel and two 18-hole courses. The hotel also incorporates a superb clubhouse surrounded by a lake and situated at the heart of two courses. The Pines is the tougher prospect

Maxx Royal

Sueno’s spectacular island green measuring more than 7,000 yards from the championship tees while the Dunes is a fair test with a great finishing hole to an island green. Lykia is a true links with dunes, sand hills and a run of four holes along the southern Mediterranean, which are fantastic. Both the Antalya Sultan and Pasha are fine tests of golf. The Sultan is probably the better of the two, but the Pasha, though shorter, is no easy touch. David Feherty and David Jones have created a tough, long course that can be unforgiving to the wayward driver at the National with eucalyptus and pine trees. The fourth is spectacular and 18 is a fine finishing hole. Gloria is an undulating tree-lined course with four big lakes and 60-plus bunkers with narrow Bermuda grass fairways and the 13th is a fantastic par four.

FACTFILE WWW.MONTGOMERIEMAXXROYAL. COM WWW.CARYAGOLF.COM WWW.SUENO.COM.TR WWW.CORNELIARESORT.COM WWW.GLORIA.COM.TR WWW.LYKIAGROUP.COM WWW.ANTALYAGOLFCLUB.COM.TR WWW.NATIONALTURKEY.COM NORTHERN GOLFER 53

GOLFERTRAVEL

Vale D’oliveiras Quinta Resort & Spa Play along the Algarve

F Dona Lola

Macdonald Doña Lola Club The perfect base for golf on the Costa del Sol

acdonald Doña Lola offers everything golfers need – a stunning beachfront location, a short stroll to the town of Calahonda with its shops, tapas bars, restaurants and nightlife, and access to some of Spain’s finest golf courses. The team at Doña Lola can arrange your golf for you – there’s a very handy booking form for golf on the website – with rounds at The San Roque Club, a

Dave Thomas design widely regarded as one of the region’s finest layouts, Estepona, set above the Atalantic with amazing views and a strategic test, La Quinta and Los Naranjos highly recommended. The large resort is built around a 270ft curved swimming pool with leisure facilities and a health and relaxation centre – perfect after a long day on the course. resorts.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/ dona-lola

or those visiting the Algarve, head to the Vale D’oliveiras Quinta Resort & Spa – an elegant hotel minutes from Carvoeiro and with some of the region’s finest golf courses within a short drive. With five courses in the region, Pestana Golf Resorts offers something for every golfer. Vale da Pinta is our pick of them with its pedigree as a host venue for European Seniors Tour Qualifying. This 6,100m layout, designed by Ronald Fream, is the perfect setting for golf in this part of

the world with its lakes, carob, fig and olive trees and fantastic clubhouse. Those travelling with young children should head to Vale De Milho – a nine-hole par three course overlooking the Atlantic. Designed by Rycer Cup legend and course architect Dave Thomas, this short course is a joy to play. Facilities at the hotel include a gym, leisure facilities, Olive Tree Restaurant and, the Jasmine Bar and Olive Bar & Lounge. Concessionary green fees are available from the hotel. resorts.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/ vale-doliveiras-quinta

Vale D’oliveiras

WINTER GOLF PACKAGES Dona Lola Club, Mijas Costa 5 Nights 3 games £399 - 7 Nights 4 games £559 Price per person, based on a 4 Ball, with car hire, breakfast and buggies included

SUNDAY DRIVER PACKAGES

NORTHEAST NORTHWEST PGA PORTUGAL PRO AM

Cardrona, near Peebles £99 - Portal, Cheshire £109

29th October 2016 7 Nights Hotel Dom Joao 11, Alvor

Price per person sharing twin room, one night DBB, 2 games Register for our newsletter for a chance to win a 4 Ball at Linden Hall Log on to: www.golﬁngholidays.org

B&B, Car Hire. 4 Games of Pro Am Tournament Golf Playing Palmares x 2, Alamos and O’Connor Practice balls and buggies included £760 per amateur - Price excludes ﬂights

CALL: 01661 854852 EMAIL: KEVIN@GOLFINGHOLIDAYS.ORG BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: 2 WEST WALK, LAMBTON ESTATE, CHESTER LE STREET. DH3 4AN.

54 NORTHERN GOLFER

GOLFERTRAVEL

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 per night on two people sharing

The Auld Cross Keys Inn

(2 course evening meal, B&B, 18 holes at Minto Golf Club & Hawick Golf Club )

Tel: Karen or Dave on 01450 870305 bookings@crosskeysdenholm.co.uk www.crosskeysenholm.co.uk Five Star Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence

The Green, Denholm, Scottish Borders, TD9 8NU

A gem of a parkland course

PGA Catalunya Stadium Course

Expert advice

Visitors always receive a warm welcome at Minto Golf Club and many visitors return year after year. To see why they do, view the ﬂyover of the course on our website or, better still, come and play the course yourself and then enjoy Minto’s hospitality in the comfortable clubhouse.

Kevin Batty from golfingholidays.org shares his top golf breaks for 2016

To book a round or enter Minto open competitions visit www.mintogolf.co.uk

ith 40 years experience arranging holidays, 16 of those specialising in golf, I’m often asked to put together breaks which offer something special, while catering for a wide range of golfers. For me, the best golf breaks are those which take in the NE/NW PGA Overseas Pro Ams – played in February and November every year. The events feature teams of four, headed by one of our local professionals, and are played over four rounds. To play with one of our most talented local pros in Portugal or Spain is a great experience, and is complemented with a stay in a fourstar hotel and access to the best golf courses in each region. Last year’s Portugal Pro Am attracted 19 teams, from all over our region, and the feedback was again very positive. If you’re travelling at a different time, holiday in The Algarve, Spain’s Costa Brava and Costa Daurada, Majorca and Tenerife – all of which are popular and accessible from regional airports. Great deals to The Algarve are available year round, and a seven-night four-round package can be arranged for less than £300 in low season, and around £450 in high season. Cambrils and Salou are popular

resorts on the Costa Daurada, and there are six courses in the area Lumine Lakes and Hills are only a few minutes from the hotels, and car hire or free transfers are available from some hotels. Barcelona and Girona have a number of excellent courses, with city breaks and beach resorts also available. The PGA Catalunya Resort is a highlight of any visit with two championship courses and fantastic hotel on site. For more information, and to book contact Kevin Batty, email kevin@golfingholidays.org or tel 01661 854 852

Minto Golf Club

For visiting party packages and all general enquiries contact the club on 01450 870 220 ext 2 or email mintogolfclub@btconnect.com

Denholm, Hawick TD9 8SA

Cally Palace

HOTEL & GOLF COURSE

SUMMER GOLF BREAKS 2 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast with 2 rounds of golf Par 71, 6062 yds Parkland Course

from PGA Catalunya NE/NW PGA Overseas Pro Am

£170 per person

t: 01557 814 341 | e: info@callypalace.co.uk

Fernhill Hotel Portpatrick

North West Castle Stranraer

Tel: 01776 810 220 E: info@fernhillhotel.co.uk

Tel: 01776 704 413 E: info@northwestcastle.co.uk

2 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast with 2 rounds of golf

from £164.00 pp

2 NIGHT STAY & PLAY

from £188.00 pp

LARGE GOLF GROUPS & GOLF SOCIETIES WELCOME

Golf available on Stranraer, Portpatrick, Glenluce or Cally courses.*

Golf available on Stranraer, Portpatrick, Glenluce or Cally courses. *

or book online at

www.mcmillanhotels.co.uk

Rates subject to promotional availability, conditions apply. * Supplements may apply.

NORTHERN GOLFER 55

TIPS GOLFERTIPS

THE POWER OF RECOVERY How often do you practise the 80-yard chip and run? Here’s how to recover like the pros and turn a bogey (or worse) into a par. Choose your lowest iron, a four or five iron for most. Next, put the ball back in your stance. Your weight, and the handle of the club, should be slightly forward of centre to ensure a clean strike on the back of the ball. From here, don’t be too greedy the aim is to get the ball back into play and save your par.

56 NORTHERN GOLFER

Dan y wae Golf HoPoerfk c orman Tour

110 70 540 ce tel 016 forman ourper .t w w w .uk golf.co

I’ve been working on my game with Dan throughout the winter and I’ve never been as enthusiastic heading into a golf season. Being able to understand my game and what works for me has renewed my conﬁdence and I’m enjoying the game again MARK THOMPSON (6 HDCP)

NEW STORE NOW OPEN AT BLYTH GOLF CLUB Stockists of Callaway, Ping, Motocaddy & more

Lessons and club fitting using GC2 HMT and V1 Video Systems. SPEND OVER £250 AND GET £25 IN STORE CREDIT

Blyth Golf Club, Plessy Road, New Delavel, Blyth, NE24 2DB Tel: 01670 540110 (option 4)

MATCHPLAYPAIRS MATCH PLAY PAIRS APPLICATION FORM For your chance to win a top prize in amateur golf, simply fill in this application form and send it to: Tournament Organiser, Northern Golfer, Offstone Publishing, Unit One, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7AL DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: THURSDAY APRIL 30, 2016

LEAD PLAYER PLAYER NAME

HANDICAP

Last chance to enter

GOLF CLUB

ADDRESS POSTCODE TEL (DAY)

TEL (EVE)

Match Play Pairs deadline extended to April 30

PARTNER

HANDICAP

PLAYER NAME

GOLF CLUB

ADDRESS POSTCODE TEL (DAY)

TEL (EVE)

PAYMENT:

ENTRY FEE

I have enclosed a cheque made payable to Offstone Publishing for £25  Or I authorise Offstone Publishing to debit my Mastercard/Visa/Maestro/Delta card by £25 only

£25



Card Number Issue No:

e’ve extended the entry deadline for this year’s Match Play Pairs to give you one last chance to enter before the tournament begins in May. Matches are played throughout the season and we’ll be following the event during the year ahead of the semifinals at Slaley Hall and the final at

Exp date:

1. A Pairs Match Play competition to be run in conjunction with Northern Golfer for its readers within its circulation area. 2. Entry forms, illegible or incorrect may result in the entrants being disqualified. 3. At each match, if courtesy is not given, green fees will be shared by both home and away teams.

5. The minimum age for the competition is 18, there is no maximum. 6. The maximum handicap is 24.

CSC: (3 digits on the

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

back of your card)

Cardholders Signature:

Please fill in the name and address the card is registered to: Inital

Surname

Address

8. Matches to be played off the tees of the day - (Home players may choose between yellows or whites depending on club policy). 9. This competition is open to Golf Club members with a valid handicap. 10. Handicap certificates should be available at all matches for opponents to inspect if requested. 11. No player can enter the competition more than once.

Northern Golfer would like to keep you informed of our news, offers and competitions. If you prefer NOT to recieve our newsletter please tick this box 

58 NORTHERN GOLFER

Wynyard Golf Club in September. The winners will receive places on the NE/NW Pro Am to be staged on the Algarve later this year organised by Kevin Batty from Golfing Holidays. To enter, fill in the application form and send it to Northern Golfer Match Play Pairs, Offstone Publishing, Unit 1 Bearl Farm, Stocksfield Northumberland, NE43 7AL.

NORTHERN GOLFER GENTS MATCH PLAY PAIRS RULES 2016

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

Valid from:

(Maestro only)

Title

This year’s winners will head to the Algarve

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

13. The home drawn pair to offer three dates and times to their opposition. 14. No extensions will be given. 15. In the event of being unable to arrange a date, both teams will be disqualified. 16. Should a match be tied after 18 holes, the result will be decided by a sudden death play off commencing at the 1st hole. 17. A panel consisting of representatives from Northern Golfer will adjudicate any disputes in conjunction with the Rules Office of the R & A. Their decision will be final. 18. No correspondence will be entered into. 19. The prizes are not transferable. 20. Distance Measuring Devices are permitted. 21. All players must agree to being photographed and included in Northern Golfer should the occasion arise. 22. The Semi-Finals and Final are to be played during the first two weeks of September 2016 23. Date and venue of the NE/NW PGA Pro Am has yet to be confirmed 24. Closing dates for entries April 30, 2016.

LADIESGREENSOMES LADIES PAIRS APPLICATION FORM For your chance to win a golf break to Matfen Hall, simply fill in this application form and send it to: Tournament Organiser, Northern Golfer, Offstone Publishing Unit One, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7AL DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: THURSDAY APRIL 30, 2016 2015 winners Anne Gollogly and Katie Clark

Ladies who golf Last chance to enter Ladies Greensomes 2016

his month is your last chance to enter the second Northern Golfer Ladies Greensomes. This year’s event is again sponsored by Matfen Hall and will be played throughout the season. The event sees pairs of ladies, who are active members of golf clubs with a handicap of 36 or less and aged over 18, compete in knockout matchplay rounds at courses around the region

ahead of the semi-finals and final at Matfen Hall in September. The winning pair will receive a twonight stay for four people at Matfen Hall, which includes dinner, bed and breakfast, use of the spa facilities and two rounds of golf as well as the championship trophy. To enter this year’s Northern Golfer Ladies Greensomes Championship, fill in the coupon left, alternatively go to www.northerngolfer.co.uk

NORTHERN GOLFER LADIES GREENSOMES CHAMPIONSHIP RULES 2016 1. Run in conjunction with Northern Golfer for its readers within its circulation area. 2. The format for the event will be match play greensomes - in which each member of a pair tees off on each hole. A tee shot is then selected and the pair progresses, playing alternate shots, until the ball is holed or the hole is conceded. Note, there is no limit the number of drives chosen from each player. 3. A pair’s handicap is calculated using the England Golf’s Greensomes Handicap Conversion Table (available on request and from www.northerngolfer.co.uk). A pair’s greensomes handicaps are added together. The lowest of the two teams’ combined greensomes handicaps is then deducted from the highest. This number (decimals rounded down) is the number of strokes the higher handicapped team will receive. 4. Entry forms, illegible or incorrect may result in disqualification. 5. At each match, if courtesy is not given, green fees will be shared. 6. All entry forms are to be directed to Northern Golfer with the entry fee. 7. The minimum age is 18. 8. The maximum handicap is 36. 9. Matches to be played off the tees of the day (Home players may choose depending on club policy). 10. This competition is open to golf club members with a valid handicap.

11. Active handicap certificates must be available at all matches for opponents to inspect if requested. 12. No player can enter the competition more than once. 13. 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. 14. The home drawn pair to offer three dates and times to their opposition. 15. No extensions will be given. 16. In the event of being unable to arrange a date, both teams will be disqualified. 17. Should a match be tied after 18 holes, the result will be decided by a sudden death play off commencing at the First hole. 18. 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. 19. No correspondence will be entered into. 20. The prizes are not transferable. 21. Distance Measuring Devices are permitted. 22. All players agree to being photographed and included in Northern Golfer. 23. Closing dates for entries is April 30, 2016.

LEAD PLAYER PLAYER NAME

HANDICAP GOLF CLUB

ADDRESS POSTCODE TEL (DAY)

TEL (EVE)

PARTNER

HANDICAP

PLAYER NAME

GOLF CLUB

ADDRESS POSTCODE TEL (DAY)

TEL (EVE)

PAYMENT:

ENTRY FEE

I have enclosed a cheque made payable to Offstone Publishing for £10  Or I authorise Offstone Publishing to debit my Mastercard/Visa/Maestro/Delta card by £10 only



£10

Card Number Issue No:

Valid from:

(Maestro only)

Exp date:

CSC: (3 digits on the back of your card)

Cardholders Signature:

Please fill in the name and address the card is registered to: Title

Inital

Surname

Address

Northern Golfer would like to keep you informed of our news, offers and competitions. If you prefer NOT to recieve our newsletter please tick this box  NORTHERN GOLFER 59

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