Northern Golfer magazine #56 - August 2017

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AUGUST 2017

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INSIDE

THE NEW PING G400 DRIVER

SEE THE STARS

WIN BRITISH MASTERS PASSES REVIEWED

CHESTER-LE-STREET & PRUDHOE QUEEN OF SCOTS

TEEN ALEX’S GREAT WIN

KING OF SWINGS

JJ VALLELY ON COACHING STARS OF THE FUTURE

WIN ROUNDS AT CHESTER-LE-STREET, SLALEY HALL AND TYNEMOUTH

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

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EDITOR’S NOTE AND CONTENTS Jordan Speith’s extraordinary triumph at The Open Championship contained play which gives hope to amateurs everywhere.

How many of us can honestly say we have panned a teeshot that far right without going out of bounds? If it can happen to Jordan, it can happen to anyone.

Thankfully Garrick Porteous had no such drama as he won his first title on the Challenge Tour as he continues to fulfill his obvious promise.

Alex Stevenson also managed to keep on the straight and narrow with a sensational win in the Scottish Under 16 Open.

The number of talented teenagers in this region - especially among the girls - is a testament to some of the excellent work being done by coaches and clubs throughout the North East and Yorkshire.

One of the leading lights, JJ Vallely, gives us a fascinating insight into how to nurture talent in our cover story.

Elsewhere, excitement is building towards the British Masters, which will be held at Close House September 28-October 1 with Masters champion Sergio Garcia leading a host of the world’s top players.

Tickets are going well and we are delighted to give you an opportunity to win passes to the week’s play - see page 42 for details.

Chester-le-Street has undergone a transformation, turning an already impressive golf course into something special. You can read all about it and win a chance to play in this issue.

Our second course review takes us to a place which has given the region some of its top players - Prudhoe in Northumberland - while our area focus this month takes a trip around some of the beautiful courses in and around Harrogate.

With the season in full swing, club championships are producing winners in gents, ladies and junior sections. Make sure those who take your club crowns don’t miss out on the chance to become Champion of Champions at Ramside Hall in September - full details on page 12.

Dean Bailey welcomes the return of golf to terrestrial TV in his regular column and chews the fat with businessman Colin Pybus on his love of golf. Plus we have the usual mix of news, features and offers from clubs across the region.

FREE 56 Enjoy the mag and see you INSIDE next month.

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

Paul Robertson, editor editor@northerngolfer.co.uk

Pages 24-27

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THE NEW PING G400 DRIVER

SEE THE STARS

CHESTER-LE-STRE ET & PRUDHOE QUEEN OF SCOTS

TEEN ALEX’S GREAT WIN

Champions on the march, EuroPro’s final countdown, Matfen junior success and England banking on Barclay

21 TOUR LIFE

Chris Paisley’s back on track

22 DEAN BAILEY

Sky Sports vs the BBC

30 A ROUND WITH

Lookers Renault’s Colin Pybus

32 GEAR

The latest releases from PING and Puma Golf, plus In the Bag with Open champion Jordan Spieth

37-39 HARROGATE

This month we head to the spa town and explore some of Yorkshire’s finest courses

KING OF SWINGS JJ VALLELY ON COACHING

WIN ROUNDS AT CHESTE

When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

12-20 TEEING OFF

ISSUE

REVIEWED

JJ Vallely discusses identifying and nurturing the most talented female golfers in the region and his hopes for the future

Porteous’ Challenge Tour win, Alex is queen of Scots, Spanish master heading to Close House and Phil’s Ridden high

AUGUST 2017

WIN BRITIS H MASTERS PASSES

FRONT COVER

04-11 TEEING OFF

40 TIPS

STARS OF THE FUTURE

R-LE-STREET, SLALEY HALL AND

NG56_Cover.indd 1

TYNEMOUTH

Finding the rhythm

07/08/2017 17:24

28-29 CHESTERLE-STREET GC

34-35 PRUDHOE GOLF CLUB

42 COMPETITIONS

Win British Masters tickets plus golf for four at Chester-le-Street, Tynemouth and Slaley Hall

44 MATCHPLAY PAIRS Round two results and third round deadline

46 FROM THE BUNKER

Instagram winner revealed plus senior success and a new signing for Northumberland NORTHERN GOLFER 03

TEEINGOFF

Dixon’s parting gift

Ryan Dixon Castle Eden’s Ryan Dixon signed off from the 2017 season at his home club in style with a pair of course record-equalling rounds of 63 over two days.

Dixon, who is studying mechanical engineering at St Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas and is the club champion at Castle Eden, returned the scores in Friday’s Captain’s Card competition and Saturday’s Medal qualifier.

“I was over the moon with the two days and really enjoyed it,” said Dixon.

“Some people have asked me if I would like to turn pro one day but all I’m looking forward to over the next few years is getting a good degree, playing some high-level college golf and getting four years of life experience in another country.”

Event organiser Larry Hindmarsh with one of the teams

Cleaning up Prudhoe Golf Club helped raise more than £2,250 for Daft As A Brush, the cancer patient transport charity.

A total of 160 players took part with the team of David Smith, M Smith, Matt Sammons and Fred Howie taking the top spot with a team score of 55.8.

04 NORTHERN GOLFER

Garrick Porteous

Porteous pay Czech

G

arrick Porteous claimed his first European Challenge Tour title with a dominant victory in the inaugural Prague Golf Challenge.

The 27-year-old from Morpeth in Northumberland carried a four shot lead into the final round and his five under-par 67 took him to a five shot victory at Prague City Golf with Julien Guerrier, Christopher Mivis and Bradley Neil in a share of second place.

Having not made a Challenge Tour cut all season, the win is long overdue for Porteous - who has been rated as a hot prospect since winning the British Amateur Championship four years ago and playing in the Walker Cup. Guerrier got to within two strokes at the turn in the last round but Porteous proved too good on

the back nine which he played in a cumulative 19 under-par during the week.

“I’m buzzing, it’s great,” said Porteous afterwards. “I got off to a comfortable start with three pars and then managed to chip in on four for eagle, which got me going.

“Once I hit the back nine I was comfortable, it was business as usual really – it’s probably my favourite nine holes I’ve ever played, playing them as well as I did!

“This result gets my season going because I didn’t have much up in terms of points and I’m really excited – it was there but it just needed to be all put together and that’s what’s happened.

“It’s nice to get over the line and win by a comfortable margin.

Finishing in the top 15 is definitely the goal now. At the start of the year

the aim was to get into the Rolex Trophy and push on from there, so now I’ve got to try to back that up.”

A superb round of 64 on day three put Porteous in command. Eight birdies and an eagle were mixed with a couple of bogeys but for most of it was supreme.

“I guess that was a pretty perfect moving day,” he added. “I got off to a good start, birdieing the first two but it was quite scoreable out there really – you hit a lot of wedges and have a lot of opportunities on the par fives. You’ve got to make your move when you can and I did that in the last couple of days.

“I’ve struggled at the start of this year, I just really haven’t performed well. There’s been spells of good performances but I haven’t been able to put it together over four rounds until now.”

England call for Yorks duo Curtis Cup star Rochelle Morris and fellow Yorkshirewoman Olivia Winning will be part of the England team aiming to defend the Women’s Home Internationals this summer.

Woodsome Hall’s Morris, 22, is one of five members of the winning

European team returning for the annual battle against the other three home nations at Little Aston.

Rotherham’s Winning, also 22, gets her chance after finishing fourth in the English amateur and reaching the semi-finals of the English Women’s Matchplay.

Olivia Winning

TEEINGOFF

Alex is teen Queen of Scots

Yorkshire retained the Northern Boys title at Warrington with an excellent allround performance which saw them record a team score of 686 in the sixman, two-round event. Led by Hallamshire’s Alex Fitzpatrick, Yorkshire finished nine shots clear of Durham who shot 695 to finish 15 under-par – the lowest score ever recorded by the county in the event Boys event.

D

urham’s Alex Stevenson has been crowned Scottish Girls Under 16 champion.

Playing at Mortonhall Golf Club in Edinburgh, the 16-year-old from Beamish Park was tied at the top of the leaderboard with English compatriot Thalia Kirby after the first round when both shot impressive level-par opening rounds in blustery conditions.

But Alex backed up her fine performance with a solid one overpar 74 on the second day to win by two and she was delighted to notch the biggest win of her career so far.

Kirby, from Harleyford in Buckinghamshire finished tied second with Ffion Tynan of Wales, who shot a two under-par 71 in the second round.

Alex, who has been in the

Alex Stevenson England regional Under 16 squad, said: “In all honesty, I would have been very happy with a top-10 finish this week, with it being my first strokeplay competition of the season.

“It was not long after finishing my GCSEs and I’d only played in matchplay competitions. Being at the top of the leaderboard after day one is where you want to be, but it brings added pressure during the

final round and I certainly felt that.

I was very nervous the first three or four holes, especially on the first but I managed to settle down. As the round went on I began to feel more comfortable as my home course Beamish is very similar.

“This win has really boosted my confidence; winning a tournament like this has always been my dream, it’s given me the belief that I am a good golfer and I’m just so happy.”

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TEEINGOFF

Locals miss out at Open

Match winners

Rob Dinwiddie Rob Dinwiddie and Nick McCarthy, who both qualified for The Open Championship through Final Qualifying, represented our region at Royal Brikdale.

Moortown-based McCarthy shot rounds of 74 and 77 in tough conditions to miss the cut by six shots while Barnard Castle’s Dinwiddie finished a further five shots back.

It was a better event for Close House attached professional Lee Westwood, who rallied over the weekend with rounds of 69 and 67 to finish in a tie for 27th place.

David Conway

I

an McEntee ended a wait of more than 30 years when he won the Durham County Matchplay Championship over his home course, South Moor.

“I first entered this championship when I was 18,” said 51-year-old McEntee. “It’s taken some time, but now it’s been worth the wait.”

Ian McEntee McEntee defeated Castle Eden’s Stuart Brown 2&1 in the final, in which he was always ahead and was 3up at one stage before Brown, who beat county champion Chris Handy and former winner Rhys Thompson on his way to the final, pegged him back only for his putter to go cold on him as he three-putted 12, 13 and 14 and then

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missed another short putt at 16.

McEntee was a member of the South Moor team who won the Durham County Clubs Championship last season and his win is the second year in succession both the county championship and matchplay champions have gone to one club.

Last year, Tyneside Golf Club’s Kris Rae and James Wilson did the honours and this year Handy and McEntee have given South Moor cause for celebration.

Meanwhile David Conway ended a long wait for his first county title when he won the Durham County Seniors Championship at Houghton - but it took a playoff for the Boldon golfer to triumph.

Conway (73, 77) and Whitburn’s Mike Baker (75, 75) were tied on 150 and could not be separated in a threehole aggregate playoff - all shared with pars. Conway broke the stalemate and lifted the trophy at the first suddendeath hole.

“I’ve been trying to win a county championship for more than 30 years and I’m chuffed to have finally done so,” said Conway.

TEEINGOFF

Chris makes his point

M

issing out on a trip to America for the 2015 PGA Cup was difficult to take for North East pro Chris McDonnell.

Hexham-born McDonnell, now based at Golf At Goodwood in West Sussex, believed he’d all but guaranteed his place in the Great Britain and Ireland team after winning the PGA Professional Championship the year before.

But he ended up missing out on a place in Jon Bevan’s team by just half a point, and it was a big blow for the former Challenge Tour player.

As Bevan’s side made history in California by becoming the first GB&I team to win the PGA Cup on American soil, McDonnell could only watch events unfold from back home.

Now two years later the dream of representing his country will become a reality at Foxhills Resort.

McDonnell finished runner-up at this year’s Titleist and FootJoy PGA Professional Championship in Ireland, but this time it was enough to earn him the points he needed to qualify for the team.

“The two biggest things you

can do as a PGA professional are winning the PGA Professional Championship and playing in the PGA Cup and now I will have done both. It’s something you can look back on in your career as one of the biggest highlights. Playing-wise it doesn’t get much bigger than the PGA Cup.” McDonnell has played on the Challenge Tour and was also a winner on the Alps Tour. He joins a PGA Cup side which includes no fewer than eight players with European Tour experience.

“It’s a good mix of players and I think we’ve got a really strong team,” he added.

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Chris McDonnell

Minnikin takes third Northumberland’s Andrew Minnikin continued his fine form this season with a third place finish in the English Men’s Open Mid-Amateur Stroke Play for the Logan Trophy.

Having finished second to Richard Aisbitt at The Northumberland Golf Club in 2015, before finishing in a tie for 13th place last year, the Northumberland Strokeplay champion shot rounds of

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TEEINGOFF

Lupton joins the field

Sergio Garcia and Lee Westwood

Jonathan Lupton Close House managing director and top local PGA professional Jonathan Lupton has been added to the field for the British Masters.

The former Walker Cup player, who first played in the British Masters in 2002 at Woburn as an amateur, will join Lee Westwood and Sergio Garcia over his home course. He said: “I’m a very similar age to Sergio and played against him when we were coming through our national systems. He was sensational as a teenager and was near untouchable. To compete alongside him again is going to be a fantastic opportunity.”

House master M

asters champion Sergio Garcia will headline the list of top European players at this year’s British Masters at Close House, September 28-October 1.

Garcia, who won his first major championship in April at Augusta National, will join Ryder Cup teammate and tournament host Lee Westwood for the event having followed in the footsteps of Seve Ballesteros and José María Olazábal

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as the third Spaniard to win a Green Jacket.

“It’s going to be great,” said Garcia when asked about visiting the North East. “Lee came to play our charity event last year in Switzerland, Sergio and Friends. He made a great effort to come over there right after The Open Championship. He asked me if I would do the same thing for him for the British Masters and I said yes. I’m excited about it. I played the event as an amateur a couple of

times and I have good memories. It should be fun.”

Westwood, who has been attached to Close House since 2011, said: “I’ve known Sergio for a long time - since he came out on Tour.

“He is a great addition to the tournament. The response so far from fans has been brilliant and it’s been very well supported with sponsors. The field is shaping up nicely so it will be a great week and I’m really looking forward to it.”

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TEEINGOFF

Away days

Some of the players at a recent away day New female golfers in Durham are being offered a fun and sociable way to get into the swing of regular play.

Academy away days are being held for women who have completed beginner coaching, bringing them together for on-course outings to grow their confidence and to make new friends as part of an extension of England Golf programmes to grow participation.

The away days are on offer until the end of September. For more information go to www.getintogolf.org

Ridden high

N

orthumberland’s Phil Ridden has lifted his first County Championship title.

Ridden, from City of Newcastle Golf Club, beat Andrew Gibson in the 36-hole final at The Northumberland Golf Club having beaten county teammates Craig Penny and Alex Dixon en-route to the final.

“I’m proud to have finally got a County Championship title under my belt,” said Ridden.

“I wasn’t confident going into the week having struggled for form in the first half of the season but I put together some of my best golf of the year through the week – including in a couple of tough games against Craig and Alex.

“It’s a great feeling to get rid of

Phil Ridden the tag of the best player without a County Championship win.”

Ridden will now head to the Champion of Champions event at Woodhall Spa as well as representing his home club as part of the team for the English Club Championship at East Devon,

both in September.

“We’ve got some big games coming up for the county as we look to finish off the league season, and I’m looking forward to representing the county and my home club in two of the biggest events of the year,” added Ridden.

Castle Eden Golf Club 18 Hole picturesque parkland course

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TEEINGOFF

David Clark with the NE/NW PGA Championship trophy

Clark’s in top form

F

ive North East/North West PGA events produced eight winners in July as David Clark picked up his fifth and sixth wins of the season and pros from across the north topped the leaderboards.

At the Cockermouth Pro Am, Craig Goodfellow (Carlisle Driving Range) led the field with a six underpar 63 as his team also took top spot. James Wilkinson (Penrith Golf Centre) was second with a round of 64 as John Harrison (Matfen Hall) finished third a further shot back.

At the Seaton Carew Pro Am, Clark (Morpeth GC) returned to the top of the leaderboard with a round of 72 in tough conditions. He was joined at the top by Stephen Kyle and Mark Ridley (South Moor GC) with all three shooting one underpar totals.

At Houghton-le-Spring, Close House’s Jonathan Lupton saw the benefit of increased practice ahead of the British Masters with a 67 giving him a two-shot win over Bedlington’s Mathew Webb.

Clark was in the winners circle again over his home course at the St James’s Place Morpeth Pro Am, his sixth win so far this season, including the NE/NW PGA Championship. He was joined at the top of the leaderboard by fellow Morpeth pro Martyn Jobling as Webb added another second place finish with a round of 68.

At Richmond Golf Club, James Ratcliffe (66 - Hull GC) finished three shots clear of home club assistant Josh Fox – who was playing in his first event as a professional – and Mark Ridley. For full results go to www.nenwpga.co.uk

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.

Here to help England Golf has appointed Rob Moore and Sam Matthews as club support officers for Yorkshire and Cumbria.

The new roles have been created to support clubs to strengthen their business and to attract more players and members.

Rob said: “I’m really excited about this opportunity to work with clubs in Yorkshire, listening to and understanding their business needs.

Using that knowledge I can support them to provide the experience their customers want.”

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Rob Moore and Sam Matthews Sam added: “I have always had a great love for golf, starting playing as a child and progressing through county and North of England junior squads culminating in qualifying as a PGA professional five years ago.

I’m excited to be working with clubs in Cumbria.”

For all enquiries or to arrange a visit, please contact Martin Ball on 01642 780238 or email secretary@eaglescliffegolfclub.co.uk

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NORTHERN GOLFER 11

THE CLIPPER LOGISTICS CHAMPIONSHIP

TEEINGOFF

MOOR ALLERTON GOLF CLUB SEPTEMBER 13-15

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

Ramside Hall’s Cathedral Course. Inset: Joe Allon and Tom Smith

Champions line up

E Hetton LeGolf Hill Club ELEMORE SUPERB JONATHAN GAUNT LAYOUT

NEW MEMBERS for 2017 £300 Adult Members £415 Seniors Over 60 yrs £350 Student & Intermediary £100 Juniors £50 Pay & Play £15 per Round Seniors £12 Students £10 Telephone 0191 5173061 or email hettoncgc@gmail.com Hetton le Hill Golf Club Elemore Vale, Easington Lane, DH5 0QT 12 NORTHERN GOLFER

ntries are open for the 2017 Northern Golfer Champion of Champions in partnership with Lookers Renault and hosted by Ramside Hall.

The events, which take place September 9 and September 16, are free to enter and will bring together champions from Northumberland, Co Durham, Teesside, the Scottish Borders, Cumbria and Yorkshire within Northern Golfer’s circulation.

Already confirmed for the men’s event are Northumberland county team members Craig Penny (Newbiggin), Daniel Shevill (Slaley Hall), Stewart Fell (Tynemouth); while Durham is already represented

by Joe Allon (Ravensworth), Matthew Moore (Ramside Hall), Tom Smith (Eaglescliffe), Phil Nicholson (Seaton Carew) and Jack Richardson (Durham City), with more champions joining the list each week.

Entries are also open for the ladies and junior events, many of which will take place in August.

Entries will close in the first week of September and champions are invited to enter their details, and select their tee time, online at www. northerngolfer.co.uk/champion-ofchampions-2017 The men’s champion of champion for 2017 will earn a start at a EuroPro Tour event in the North for 2018. The winner will join the best young professionals in the UK & Ireland for a three-round event with the chance to compete on the thirdtier tour which offers professionals

the chance to earn a place on the following season’s Challenge Tour.

For more information contact Dean Bailey, email dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk tel 01661 844 115 or go to www.northerngolfer.co.uk/ champion-of-champions-2017

JUNIOR CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS Saturday September 9 Cathedral Course at Ramside Hall Tee times from 12.30pm followed by dinner and presentation

LADIES CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS Saturday September 9 Prince Bishops Course at Ramside Hall Pastries and tea or coffee on arrival, tee times from noon followed by dinner and presentation

MEN’S CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS

Saturday September 16 Cathedral Course at Ramside Hall Bacon rolls and tea or coffee on arrival, tee times from 8am followed by dinner and presentation. The winner will receive a start at a EuroPro Tour event in the North for 2018 Enter online now at www.northerngolfer.co.uk/ champion-of-champions-2017

OFFICIAL VENUE

ACADEMY PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP THE FINAL PIECE IN THE PLAYER PATHWAY AT CLOSE HOUSE Modern golf club membership must be flexible for every player. While some have the time to enjoy a full membership experience, a growing number of players have a limited time to spend on the course – though they still want to have access to a world-class course and some of the best facilities in the country.

That’s where Academy Premium membership at Close House comes in offering affordability and access to the Lee Weswtood Filly Course along with use of the PGA Academy and it’s tournament-ready facilities, unlimited use of the Yearling par three course and more.

From there players can head out to the Yearling par three course to perfect their short game skills as Academy members.

“From the Yearling Course, players now have the option to take up Academy Premium membership and take the next stop in their golfing journey by heading out onto the Filly Course and getting a taste of the full Close House experience.

“The vision for membership at Close House has always been about providing a pathway for every player,” explains managing director Jonathan Lupton.

“This addition completes the player pathway at Close House and the feedback from Academy Premium members so far has been fantastic.

We’re looking forward to seeing players progress through the system and into full membership when they will have the opportunity to tackle the championship Colt Course, host course of this year’s British Masters.”

“We want to inspire people to pick up the game in our PGA Academy, the only facility of its kind in the north of England with state-of-the-art technology, three leading PGA professionals and tournament-ready facilities.

A limited number of Academy Premium memberships are still available. Please contact Craig Wright for more information craig.wright@closehouse.co.uk or tel 01661 85 22 55

Academy Premium membership at Close House £60 per month What’s included:

Yearling course access seven days a week Filly course access Monday-Friday Filly course access on Saturday and Sunday afternoon Guests at the members’ guest rates on the Filly Course Members can hold a handicap and play in non-trophy competitions on the Filly Course Have a member’s account with 10% discount across the site Get member’s guest rates on bedroom bookings

CLOSE HOUSE, HEDDON ON THE WALL, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, NE15 0HT Tel: 01661 85 22 55, Email: enquiries@closehouse.co.uk, www.closehouse.com

TEEINGOFF

Junior dates

Longhirst Hall GC

James Maw

Applications for this year’s Northumberland Golf Academy close on August 31.

Open to boys and girls aged 10-18, the academy coaching programme includes 18 hours of coaching and is £ 99 per player. Assessment days will take place in September. Contact Marcus Webb, tel 01670 822 087 or 07714 612 177 or email m_webb8@sky.com for more information.

Meanwhile, Longhirst Hall Golf Club will host qualifying for the Junior European Open on October 22. Go to www.golforganiser.com for more information.

James Simpson

Nick McCarthy

Northern hopefuls

W

ith six HotelPlanner. com PGA EuroPro Tour events remaining before the season-ending Tour Championship, a number of the north’s best young professionals are in position to push for a top-five finish in the Race To Amendoeira and earn a step up to the Challenge Tour in 2018.

James Simpson (Close House) is the highest ranked in 12th place.

The 24-year-old is in his third EuroPro season and has finished in the top-20 in three of his last four tournaments, including a tie for second place at the Matchroom Sport Championship alongside Yorkshireman Jonathan Thomson.

Nick McCarthy (Moortown) is close behind in 14th place with two top-three finishes this season.

The 29-year-old will be looking to emulate that form at The Clipper Logistics Championship at Moor

Allerton in September. Just outside the top 20, James Maw (Rockliffe Hall) is looking to push on from his 2016 win and has a top-three finish to his name this season. He will be hoping for a strong finish to the season to put him in contention in the race to Amendoeira following a mixed season.

The tour returns to our region for The Clipper Logistics Championship at Moor Allerton, September 13-15.

Consett & District Golf Club

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£275.00 FROM NOW UNTIL MARCH 2018 Golf Professional with a state of the art Studio for indoor lessons.

“Stepping Stone” Membership for Ladies 1st Year £250 2nd Year £350 3rd Year Full Membership as required.

“Other Membership offers also available”

· Catering and private room hire for every occasion. · Spectacular views across the Derwent Valley. · Visiting Parties welcome with ride on buggies and full catering service available.

14 NORTHERN GOLFER

Please contact the Secretary for all of the above; Vince Kelly on 01207505060 (option 1) or email: consettgolfclub@btconnect.com

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Matfen’s winning team (l-r): Zara Naughton, Francesca Chilton, Alex Buchanan, Angus Buchanan, Matty Garvey (Captain), Morgan Blyth, Jack Walling, Junior Dobson, Oliver Butts and Jack Naughton

Matfen’s ace in the pack

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16 NORTHERN GOLFER

atfen Hall’s junior team won the Northumbria Junior Golf League Finals day at Blyth Golf Club.

The juniors from Whitley Bay, who were the team to beat last year, got the better of Hexham 9-3 in the semi-finals while Matfen won 8-4 against Stocksfield.

In the final the Matfen team was in great form winning 9-3 while Hexham took the third place playoff 7-5.

Meanwhile, 16-year-old

Francesca Chilton, who was in the Matfen side, recorded her first hole-inone at the 138-yard par three ninth using an eight iron.

Francesca Chilton

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Telephone the Manager John Robinson on 0191 2684247 Visitors & Societies Welcome Telephone 0191 2689131 for course availability, information and events Email: backworthminers@gmail.com • www.backworthminers.co.uk/golf The Hall, Backworth, NE27 0AH

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Wonder women

Wendy Aziz, Joan Cuthberston and Ann Corbett Rockliffe Hall

Hall to play for at Rockliffe

T

he North’s best amateur golfers will once again compete for the Northern Golf Masters title at Rockliffe Hall on Sunday September 17.

This year will mark the sixth consecutive year that the 36-hole scratch competition - now part of the County Durham Scratch Order of Merit - has taken place at the top golf resort at Hurworth, near Darlington.

Rockliffe Hall’s golf and estate director Davy Cuthbertson said: “Now that the Northern Golf Masters is part of the order of merit we’re expecting the event to be very popular.

“The NGM is always a great event and golfers get a real flavour of what it’s like to play in a top competition on a world-class course, played by the likes of ex-Ryder Cup captains Sam Torrance, Ian Woosnam and Mark James.”

Last year’s event was won by Sam Donald from Eaglescliffe, who posted a one underpar total of 143 to finish six shots ahead of Richmond’s Michael Henson.

The closing date for entries is Sunday September 3, 2017.

To enter call the Rockliffe Hall, tel 01325 729 980 or email golf@rockliffehall.com

City of Newcastle Golf Club

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Whitburn’s women’s section has been on a winning run.

Vice-captain Chloe Taylor picked up the Durham County Ladies Golf Association Bronze Championship trophy at South Shields with 33 points.

Meanwhile, Whitburn past captains and sisters Joan Cuthbertson and Wendy Aziz joined current captain and county secretary Ann Corbett to win The Vine Trophy team competition at Durham City with a score of 81 points, one ahead of Eaglescliffe.

Chloe Taylor receives her trophy from Christine Mair

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TEEINGOFF Workington Golf Club continued its dominance of the Cumbria InterClub Strokeplay Championship to book a place in the national final at East Devon Golf Club in September. The team of leading county player William Bowe, James Atkinson and Richard Mewse won the title for a fourth time in a row as Carlisle took second place in tough conditions at Seascale Golf Club.

Heworth’s vision is 2020

H

eworth Golf Club will host the McGregor Trophy in 2020, The event will mark the second time the English Boys Under 16 Strokeplay Championship has been held in the North East - the last time was in 2011 at South Moor Golf Club where City of Newcastle’s Jack Hermeston won the title.

The Gateshead club was more than happy to accept England Golf ’s invitation to stage the event in July 2020 as it’s one of the most prestigious tournaments in the national junior calendar - and one of that provides a pointer towards future European Tour stars.

Previous winners of the event include Graeme Storm, Justin Rose, Oliver Fisher and Eduardo Molinari and this year there were entries from 17 countries as well as England,

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Heworth Golf Club Scotland and Wales. Heworth secretary - the appropriately named Barry McGregor - reckons the event will mean much for the reputation of the club and the area.

“We will have quite an influx of visitors to Gateshead and all of them will need accommodation. It will be good for the local economy and great publicity for the area.

“I recently visited Burnham and Berrow Golf Club, which hosted this year’s McGregor Trophy, and

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received quite a bit of information about the event. Although its three years away for us, I’m starting to look at some initial planning now.”

The McGregor Trophy was started in 1982 at the Radcliffe-on-Trent Golf Club. The competition was adopted in 1993 by the English Golf Union as the England Boys Under 16 Open Amateur Strokeplay Championship, played at various venues, though it returns to Radcliffe every five years.

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www.arcothall.co.uk • email: arcothall@yahoo.co.uk Arcot Hall Golf Club, Dudley, Cramlington, Northumberland, NE23 7QP

18 NORTHERN GOLFER

TEEINGOFF

All change at Catterick

The Catterick team Phil Archer

Archer on target

P

hil Archer bridged a 15-year gap when he won the PGA North Region Championship at Bolton Old Links.

He previously claimed the title back in 2002 at Blackpool resort Heron’s Reach before embarking on a successful European Tour career.

Archer, who plays for the Great Britain and Ireland PGA Cup team against the United States

at Foxhills next month, is clearly enjoying life at regional level.

“This is my second year back and I’m glad to see the game is growing,” he said after posting a five under-par 67 to edge out early leader Ryan O’Neill in the 36-hole tournament (reduced to one round due to torrential rain).

“A lot of new sponsors have come on board and I’m enjoying playing in pro-ams because I’m

always relaxed in the company of amateurs,” enthused Archer, 45, who represents the Players’ Tour Golf Academy at Poulton Park where he is a coach.

Several professionals felt the tournament should have been re-arranged rather than played over one round but Archer said: “At least we got it finished and I knew I needed to win to have any chance of an Order of Merit’s top three.”

One of North Yorkshire’s most popular courses has successfully completed an ambitious improvements programme.

Catterick Golf Club has always been a good test of golf but a comprehensive schedule of work on and off the course is paying dividends.

New head greenkeeper Graeme Regan and his team set about improving the course with re-designed bunkers, new tee boxes and drainage while practice facilities were revamped with six covered bays added, a new chipping and pitching area built and a new putting green.

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TEEINGOFF

Can you sell this space?

Barclay Brown

England bank on Barclay

Y

We are looking for a talented and experienced media sales professional to help with the future development of Northern Golfer magazine.

With 10 issues per year, a growing website and several popular events we are the ‘must read’ publication for golfers in the area.

The role will be to further develop commercial partnerships both in print and online, and the ideal candidate will have a good knowledge of golf in the region as well as a successful media sales background. Based at our offices in Stocksfield, the rewards include a good basic salary, bonus and a company car.

Interested? Send us your C.V. along with a covering letter to givemeajob@offstonepublishing.co.uk

Unit One, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7AJ t: +44 (0) 1661 844 115 www.offstonepublishing.co.uk

20 NORTHERN GOLFER

orkshire’s Barclay Brown played his part in England’s victory in the European Young Masters in Norway.

The teenager teamed up with Lily May Humphreys, Annabell Fuller and Conor Gough at Oslo Golf Club to win the title.

Brown shot a final round of four under-par (68) as England underlined its current dominance in Europe - following Alfie Plant’s win at the European Amateur Championship and and a team win at the European women’s event.

This is England’s first team victory since 2013 as they finished on 12 under-par, beating Norway by five shots, while Italy took third place

two shots further back. Meanwhile, Brown also swept all before him and picked up a brand new electric trolley at the Independent Schools Golf Association HG Trophy at Burhill Golf Club.

The talented 16-year-old - who plays off a handicap of plus-two posted a four under-par round of 68 to win the tournament by five shots, while playing his part as the team prize going to Sheffield’s Birkdale School for the first time.

Having won the ISGA Northern Open by seven shots earlier this year, Barclay said: “It was an allround brilliant day – the first ISGA seniors win for Birkdale and a great round to get another individual win for myself.”

House that Lloyd Newcastle welcomed valued customers to its Ultimate Golf Day at Close House.

Top honours went to Terry Botto with 47 points while Darren Nichol took second place with 43 points and John Thompson was third with 41 points. Peter Scholes had a

Anthony Kenny, Peter Scholes and Terry Botto hole-in-one on the 14th while Trevor Kenny hit the straightest drive on the 10th. On the Filly Course, Rob Armstrong won with 42 points.

CHRISPAISLEY

Chris Paisley

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TOUR LIFE

GETTING THE JUICES FLOWING AGAIN As I write, I’m sitting in Manchester Airport waiting for my flight to Orlando after a long week in Hamburg, and I’m exhausted.

I’m fatigued following a combination of finally playing four rounds in a row and averaging about three hours sleep the past three nights - the former due to weather delays and a cancelled Easyjet flight.

It was a disappointing end to what could have been a great week in Germany. I played lovely in the first round and was tied for second place. The week then slowly slipped away from me and I finished 55th.

My main source of disappointment is that I feel like I played well for most of the week and wasn’t rewarded for it. That’s golf though - sometimes you do all the right things and it doesn’t work out.

The result may have been poor but there were a lot of positives. I drove the ball as well as I have for a long time and I got up near the lead for a while, which got the juices flowing again! I felt as though I was enjoying golf, which I haven’t been doing for a while now. I have turned a corner with my game and I feel very confident of a strong finish to the season.

I’m not in a great spot on the Race to Dubai but that has seemed to spur me on the past couple of years!

I have two weeks off before the Paul Lawrie Matchplay in Germany followed by the Made In Denmark tournament - two great events on golf courses that I know well. I’ll spend a week resting up, spending time with my wife Keri and cooking on my Big Green Egg. Then it will be back to work. I feel good about where my game is going; it’s just a case of working hard and taking my chances when they come.

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DEANBAILEY

Dean Bailey

Deal or no deal I love golf on TV, but is sharing events between broadcasters better?

B

y the time you read this, the US PGA Championship at Quail Hollow will be well underway. For the first time since 2007, you won’t be watching the year’s final major on Sky Sports. Instead we’ll be back for more Peter Alliss and Ken (Brown) on the Course on the Beeb just three weeks removed from Royal Birkdale (or watching a live stream on Facebook or Twitter) - and I can’t wait.

I love Sky Sports’ golf coverage. It’s the best all-round package, with an innovative approach to covering a full tournament week both inside and outside the ropes with a team of (mostly) well-liked experts.

Sky’s Live from the Range is interesting ahead of each day’s play, champions like Darren Clarke, Paul McGinley, Colin Montgomerie and Jack Nicklaus are fascinating to hear from and the honesty of Butch Harmon is brilliant (again, mostly) while the extensive, dedicated coverage is hard for any other UK broadcaster to match.

22 NORTHERN GOLFER

Despite full coverage on its Red Button, iPlayer and radio output, the BBC will only show the closing portion of each day’s play on BBC2 this year, which is a missed opportunity.

Though Sky Sports has changed golf coverage in the UK in the last 20-plus years, I wouldn’t want to go down the route of R&A chief executive Martin Slumbers and suggest the BBC’s coverage doesn’t have its merits.

There is something special about golf on the BBC. Alliss is a master of commentary while Ken on the Course is as enlightening as it is hilarious (take this year’s from The Open with Andrew ‘Beef ’ Johnston as an example).

It is comforting watching golf on the BBC. Rather than the all-singing production of Sky Sports and its unrelenting advertising breaks, the unbroken BBC coverage is a golfing delight with just the slightest of interruptions from Allis and co.

Though I wouldn’t be keen on only having the BBC’s coverage over a full year – I’d miss wrap-around coverage and all the extras – going back to something simpler and more relaxing is going to be brilliant.

The mixture of the two is the perfect world I suppose. While I love the high production values and huge team Sky brings to golf, I equally enjoy the quirky, old-fashioned feel of golf on the BBC. Unfortunately, I fear it will not last long. Top-tier sport is tough to keep on free-to-air TV for very long and I have no doubts Sky and the PGA of America will come to a multi-year, multi-million pound deal before we’re back for the final major of 2018. But that won’t stop me sitting down to hear long-winded stories from Alliss on Sunday evening for a second time this summer - and hoping for more of the same in years to come.

CHESTER-LE-STREET GOLF CLUB

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JJVALLELY

JJ nurtures girl power Dean Bailey meets JJ Vallely, the man helping produce some of the North’s most talented female players, to learn the secrets of his success and what the future holds for elite girls in the region

S

pend an hour in the company of JJ Vallely and you’ll be enthused.

A PGA professional for 17 years, JJ is a golf nut. Whether it’s discussing the talent of John Daly, the role parents play in the development of young athletes, the merits of clubface stability and how it applies to every golf swing, or anything in between – JJ will be able to talk with an understanding born from his love of the game.

As well as being a PGA professional at Northumberland’s Matfen Hall, JJ leads the England Golf Girls regional squad through its annual coaching programme with the support of regional manager Bryan Ross, which is made up of leading players from across our region, including recent Northern Golfer cover stars Jess Baker and Rosie Belsham.

JJ also coaches a number of our region’s most successful girls in one-to-one sessions having met the girls through the introduction of the North of England Futures – a self-funded programme which identifies ambitious players and offers a programme of coaching aimed at leading them into the England Golf Regional Squad.

“When I took on the regional girls squad we

24 NORTHERN GOLFER

found we had an issue with player identification and retaining contact with those players who weren’t quite ready for the England squad,” explains JJ. “I knew the success of the regional squad was based on having a treadmill of players ready to take up the spots so we set up a system to identify them.

“The aim of it all is to allow as many girls as possible to develop as top players.”

Both Jess and Rosie were identified as part of the Futures programme and JJ credits the early introduction to squad coaching with encouraging them to improve.

“The girls have really stepped up a level this season,” he says. “I felt it was going to happen soon having watched them push each other over the last three years.”

In their first year, Jess and Rosie, along with Cumbria’s Harriet Barker and Abby Roper, took a combined 50 shots off their handicaps and all four have since progressed into the Regional Squad.

“All we wanted to do for those four girls in the first Futures programme was inspire them,” adds JJ. “We put the plan in place for them to do it committing to that plan and working hard is all down

JJVALLELY

NORTHERN GOLFER 25

JJVALLELY to them and they are achieving great results.”

Those results, Jess winning the Midland U16 Girls’ Championship at Hawkstone Park and Rosie becoming the youngest-ever winner of the Northumberland County Championship, look set to lead to more titles.

“A lot of our work as a squad is about the human side of the game. We do a lot of competitive practice and build people with a strong, resilient mindset for golf. This game is a rollercoaster and learning to cope with that is as important as controlling the ball flight.

“The work goes into the time with the players and time with their parents. They have such an important role to play in each child’s development and ultimately we want the girls to feel mature enough take ownership of the process and their own golf. It takes them and their parents.”

JJ admits his work is a small part in the process, and the commitment of the girls and their competitive nature within the squads has been the key to producing so many good players in the last three years.

“Jess and Rosie have pushed each other and with players like 14-year-old England cap

“It’s become a bit of a cliché but developing a system of players is all about culture” Caitlin Whitehead in the squad there is a lot motivating them to improve. Our job is to guide them along the path,” adds JJ. Away from the girls’ squad, JJ is a wellestablished teaching professional with a number of elite players as well as club golfers on his books – as well as a successful junior academy.

“My passion is for coaching. I was inspired

by Jim Hardy and Chris O’Connell about 10 years ago and I spend a lot of time working with them and my peers to develop what we do. I love studying golf swings and helping players hit more consistent shots.

“Improving as a coach never stops and I spend hours analysing players, reading about golf, talking to people about every aspect of the game – it all helps me deliver results for players,” adds JJ while swiping through swing videos and forum discussions on his phone.

JJ’s love for the game started aged 10, growing up across the road from Heworth Golf Club. By the age of 11 he was obsessed with the game.

“I was club champion by the age of 15 but I was also fascinated by how golf works,” 26 NORTHERN GOLFER

JJ Vallely

Rosie Belsham he explains. “That early fascination was possibly the early sign that I was never destined to be a great player - the analytical side of my brain was always keen to get in the way of playing my best golf.”

Having turned pro in 2000 and played locally, JJ committed to full time coaching and has no regrets.

“When I look back, I know I was battling my game too much back then.

Having played with that feeling really helps my coaching and I know what thoughts are useful for playing and practising and which aren’t.”

With such a strong stable of players, and a passion for studying the game, it seems coaching is the perfect place for JJ, who is looking forward to this year’s squad

Jess Baker coaching and identifying the next set of Futures players.

“It’s become a bit of a cliché but developing a system of players is all about culture. We’ve worked hard to create that and we’re hopefully going to continue and improve the quality of female golfers being produced in the north of England.

“We’ve got eight very good girls in the Futures squad right now and we’re going to have some tough choices when it comes to picking the squads for 2018 – but that’s the situation we want to be in.”

We could go on for hours, with so many subjects to cover from the psychology of elite golf down to assessing the legality of near-to-anchored putting strokes – though we’ll have to save those for another day.

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COURSEREVIEW

All change for Chester Dean Bailey visits one of Co Durham’s finest courses as its development continues

T

here have been some big improvements at Chester-le-Street Golf Club in the last 18 months as work is underway to dramatically change the tree-lined layout in the shadow of Lumley Castle into a fairer, more strategic test in keeping with its ancient woodland surroundings.

Gone are swathes of bracken, nettles and waistdeep rough – replaced with new bunkers and a more open feel with views up the hill to the castle, across to the spire of St Mary and St Cuthberts and down the hill to the River Wear.

The first phase of a course development laid out by architect Ken Moodie, five-time Ryder Cup player and TV commentator Ken Brown, along with John Nicholson Associates, saw the largest part of the tree management take place under Nicholson while alterations to six holes were made. Changes to the third, fifth, sixth and 18th are planned for the autumn.

Gone are incredibly penal areas of trees in favour

28 NORTHERN GOLFER

of a more open, playable design, which offers a chance of recovery – if a tough one.

Of the holes that have seen the biggest changes so far, the first may have benefitted the most. Rather than a short and simple par four, players are now faced with two fairway bunkers at the corner of the dogleg left while two remodelled greenside bunkers present a much more challenging opening hole.

At the 382-yard second, the fairway bunker on the left side of the dogleg left has been reshaped to create a more dramatic look while a more generous landing area is a welcome change at this tough par four.

The alterations to the third will continue this winter when two fairway bunkers and mounding will be added while the green will be remodelled to present a challenging complex with mounding and a new greenside bunker. At the par five fourth, ancient oaks and limes remain, as does the dense woodland over the out of bounds fence right. Two fairway bunkers are to be avoided to the left of the fairway while the approach is set to be enhanced with the

addition of a large pond and ditch to the right of the fairway and the remodelling of the greenside bunkers.

A new tee will see the hole stretch to 540 yards.

The 406-yard, par four fifth will have two fairway bunkers on the left removed and a new bunker added to the right side, while vegetation has already been removed to open up views down to the river. At the green, the putting surface will be extended and the bunkers reshaped.

Running alongside the river, the par five sixth will also undergo major changes with new approach bunkers set to present a daunting sight when laying up at this 557-yard hole, while the seventh, the first par three, remains unchanged. Future plans include a new back tee and three deeper bunkers here.

The most straightforward hole of the front nine, the 393-yard eighth will be improved with the reshaping of the left fairway bunker and the addition of a right fairway bunker which will narrow the landing area. At the green, the bunker at the front left will be removed in favour of mounding while a new,

COURSEREVIEW

FACT FILE The new-look 14th larger front right bunker will be added.

The green at the challenging par four ninth now affords a great view back up the third fairway to the castle while the thinning of trees and scrub has greatly improved the pace of play.

The short par four 10th is played uphill and requires a long tee shot to reach the brow of the hill, though you must beware of the steep drop and out of bounds to the left. A new grass bunker and the addition of a larger fairway bunker will challenge those trying to reach the top of the hill.

The short dogleg right 11th has seen two fairway bunkers added while a new greenside bunker to the right will test your short game.

Overlooked by the clubhouse, the 12th has undergone the biggest change so far. Played straight uphill, the birch trees to the rear of the 18th green have been removed opening the tee box to the wind while the creation of a water hazard has toughened up the 170-yard par three.

The par four 13th and 14th holes, measuring 379 and 363 yards respectively, have been altered to complement the new bunkering which has improved the look of both green complexes.

The 15th will see a new green built in the future to return the hole to a par five with new fairway and approach bunkers set to protect the 490-yard hole, while the par three 16th will be shortened to add further variety while allowing space for the new green to be built.

Heading for home, the 17th has been greatly improved following the tree management while the signature 18th (see fact file) will be changed this winter with a new bunker planned for the landing area on the right side while the green will see major alterations with new mounding and a new front left bunker presenting a number of options and demanding chip shots.

Founded in 1908, Chester-le-Street’s fascinating history is told throughout the clubhouse, which features a signed photograph of Prince Albert, Duke of York, a regular visitor before he was crowned King George VI in 1936. The club is also home to PGA professional Lee Findley and one of the best pro shops in the region.

CONTACT Chester-le-Street Golf Club, Lumley Park Chester-le-Street, DH3 4NS tel 0191 388 3218 www.clsgolfclub.co.uk GREEN FEES Mon-Fri £20 Mon-Thurs after 1.30pm £18 Fri after 1.30pm £25 Sat-Sun £25 Sat-Sun after 2pm £20

Third green - before

TOTAL DISTANCE White tees 6,479 yards Yellow tees 6,187 yards Red tees 5,873 yards FEATURES Large clubhouse with bar/lounge and dining room Locker rooms and changing facilities Pro shop and PGA professional tuition Practice range with long and short game areas

Third green - after

CADDY’S TIP There’s is room from the tee now but don’t stray too far off line with the driver.

Ken Brown’s green complexes will challenge the best players so sharpen up your short game SIGNATURE HOLE The closing stretch at Chester-le-Street is one of the best in Co Durham and the 18th is a fitting close at 347 yards. With views down the hill to the river and up to the castle, a long drive is required to leave a manageable approach to a fast green in the shadow of the clubhouse. Alterations this winter are sure to further improve this great par four further

The new-look 12th OUR VERDICT The improvements so far are impressive and must be seen – we’re already excited to head back next summer NORTHERN GOLFER 29

ROUNDWITH

A ROUND WITH...

Colin Pybus The Lookers Renault franchise director tells Dean Bailey about his golf, love of travelling and why he would jump at the chance of a scratch handicap

T

hough short, Colin Pybus’ golfing career has been eventful. The Lookers Renault franchise director, who also oversees Nissan, Hyundai operations in the UK for the national motor retailer, has been in the motor industry for more than 25 years. Having picked up the game four years ago to take advantage of the golf day invites he had been receiving for years, Colin counts some of the UK and Europe’s finest courses among his favourites – here’s more…

1 How do you fit golf in?

Between travelling with work and spending time with my partner Kaman, I haven’t got as much time for golf as I’d like. I try and play at least once a fortnight – normally an early start on a Saturday morning at George Washington Golf Club - which is why my handicap is still stuck at 22. I could play every week through the summer with work invites but the day job has scuppered my golfing ambitions so far.

2 How did you get into golf?

I picked it up four years ago having missed out on far too many chances to play golf through work over the years. I had one lesson, headed out from there and haven’t looked back since.

I like that the game is all about improving and beating the course rather than trying to beat the people you’re playing with – it’s got a great social side to it.

3 Which is your favourite place to play in the North East?

I would have to pick Close House. The two golf courses are superb and the hospitality is some of the best I’ve experienced anywhere.

4 And further afield?

I really enjoy the annual Lookers golf society trip to La Cala in Spain. The weather is often a bit better than the North East and the views across the golf course are stunning. The company for

30 NORTHERN GOLFER

the week is fantastic as well with 16 guys who get on really well.

5 What’s your best ever round?

I’ve shot 90 twice – at George Washington earlier this season and at Sharpley Golf Club a couple of years ago. I played the back nine at Sharpley in 40 and thought I was going to turn pro as I came off the course. The following week I shot 110 and was brought back down to earth.

6 Which is your favourite golfing memory?

I won the longest drive as part of a corporate day on the Queen’s Course at Gleneagles, in a field which included a pro! I felt like Happy Gilmore when I hit it – one of the best shots I’ve ever hit.

7 What about embarrassing moments?

How long have we got? Most of them are linked to the third hole at Rudding Park which features a tee shot over water. As long as nobody is watching I’m fine but if anyone, including dog walkers and green staff, is watching I dunk it in the lake.

8 Do you have any superstitions?

Not so much a superstition but I have an odd pre-shot routine with the driver which has been described as ‘stamping up the worms’.

9 What are your strengths on the course?

I’m a reasonable driver of the golf ball and can get it out there quite consistently on a good day – though I do have the odd wayward one in me.

10 And your weaknesses?

I’m rubbish in bunkers and I’m in desperate need of a lesson – or a bucket and spade.

11 Which sportsperson do you admire?

It’s a tough one but I admire the way Usain Bolt has reached the pinnacle of his sport while enjoying himself and coming across a really genuine, fun guy.

12 Which is your favourite club?

My driver – I like getting on the tee and getting the ball out there.

13 Who is your best golfing friend?

I would have to say each member of the Lookers golf society; we’ve had some fantastic trips and away days in the last few years and I can’t wait for our next one. It’s a mix of roles and backgrounds and we gel really well together.

14 Do you play any other sports?

I used to have a table tennis table in my office and remain unbeaten within the Lookers group.

15 Who is your favourite tour player?

I really like watching Rory McIlroy; he’s such a creative player and takes on a lot of shots which other players don’t take on. He’s also honest in his interviews, which I like to see in a sportsman.

16 Which event do you enjoy watching the most?

The Masters from Augusta National every April - I’d love to go over and watch it one day having grown up watching it on the TV. 17 Which three people would join you in your dream fourball?

I’d play alongside Winston Churchill as he’s such an inspiring leader with some of the most iconic quotes in history; George Best so I could hear his stories from on and off the football pitch; and Seve Ballesteros so he could give me some tips in the bunkers.

18 If I could offer you a trip around the world or a scratch handicap, which would you take?

Having done a lot of travelling, I’d have to pick the scratch handicap. I can achieve a lot of things on my bucket list but I feel like a scratch handicap may be beyond me without a little help!

ROUNDWITH ROUNDWITH

NORTHERN GOLFER 31 NORTHERN GOLFER 31

GOLFERGEAR

Late summer gear

RED HOT

Odyssey O-Works Red putters RRP: from £179 www.odysseygolf.com Odyssey’s latest range of putters, O-Works Red, is available now.

Developed with leading tour players the range features a new red colour scheme and Odyssey’s Microhinge insert technology, which delivers increased topspin and roll at impact regardless of your stroke while also providing great feel. The O-Works Red line includes 2-Ball, #7#7S, R-Line and V-Line Fang head shapes.

As we head towards the final few weeks of the summer season, it’s time for a host of releases to whet our appetites. This month we have a new family from PING, red hot putters from Odyssey, the most advanced PowaKaddy trolley ever, and new apparel and footwear from FootJoy and Puma.

BUCKLE UP

PING G400 range RRP: from £200 www.ping.com PING has unveiled the latest addition to the G family - G400. Continuing the development of the G line, the G400 range brings together proven technology and a number of improvements – including the G400 driver which features a smaller head (445cc) to improve clubhead speed and a thinner, forged face to deliver increased ball speeds. Meanwhile, the G400 irons promise tour-level performance with increased forgiveness utilising COR-eye technology. Fairway woods, hybrids and crossovers complete the range.

32 NORTHERN GOLFER

LOOK GOOD…

FootJoy A/W 17 apparel RRP: from £47.50 www.footjoy.co.uk

FootJoy’s latest range of apparel, featuring new colour stories and additions to its Layer Up system, is available now. The headline garments - the DryJoys Tour LTS Jacket (RRP £250), Rain Shirts (RRP £230) and Trousers (RRP £200), offer lightweight waterproof performance with temperature regulation – perfect for the ever-changing British weather. Meanwhile the DryJoys Select and FJ HydroLite rainwear receives a colour update and the range is completed with new polo shirts, chill-outs and base layers.

GOLFERGEAR

Following its success in 2016 – including the half-a-millionselling Freeway range – PowaKaddy has released its most advanced golf trolley ever, the FW7s GPS. With GPS technology built into its digital screen, the FW7s is capable of delivering fast, accurate distances to the front, middle and back of the green at more 30,000 golf courses worldwide while also featuring a built-in digital scorecard which displays different emojis based on whether players shoot above or below their handicap. The trolley also includes popular Freeway features such as the adjustable distance control function and USB charging port.

IN THE BAG With Open champion Jordan Spieth

© Debby Wong / Shutterstock.com

POWA AHEAD

PowaKaddy FW7s GPS trolley RRP: £749.99 www.powakaddy.com

Jordan Spieth returned to the very top of world golf in July with his sensational close to the final round of the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, following victory at the Travellers Championship. The 23-year-old American added the third-leg of the career grand slam to his impressive record with a birdieeagle-birdie-birdie-par finish having begun his final round slowly before hitting a drive 100 yards right of the 13th fairway, leading to a penalty drop onto the practice range and a bogey five.

Here’s what was in his bag at Royal Birkdale…

Driver: Titleist 915 D2 9.5˚ Fairway: Titleist 915F 15o˚

3 iron: Titleist 718 T-MB

IF THE SHOE FITS

Puma Golf A/W 17 footwear RRP: from £100 uk.puma.com The trendy folk at Puma Golf have released their latest footwear options for autumn/winter 2017. The fashionable, spikeless Ignite Disc Extreme (RRP £100) combines a sporty mesh upper with Puma’s Disc technology which tightens with a simple twist for a custom fit, is joined by the Ignite Spikeless Pro (RRP £100), Titantour Ignite Hi-Top (RRP £160), Ladies Ignite Spikeless Sport Floral (RRP £100) and Ladies Ignite Statement (RRP £100) in the range, which is worn by Rickie Fowler, Lexi Thompson, Ben Crane, Jonas Blixt and Bryson DeChambeau.

Ball: Titleist Pro V1x Putter: Scotty Cameron SC-009 prototype 4 iron: Titleist 716 T-MB

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM6 (46o, 52˚, 56˚, 60˚)

Irons: Titleist 716 AP2 5-9 NORTHERN GOLFER 33

COURSEREVIEW

Pride of Prudhoe Dean Bailey visits Prudhoe Golf Club and learns why the course has produced players with more than 150 county, national and international honours between them

P

lay Prudhoe in the height of summer and you’ll understand why the club has produced some of the region’s finest golfers.

From British Amateur champion and tour player David Curry and British Ladies Amateur Strokeplay champion Janet Soulsby to British Mid Amateur champion Shaun Philipson and a number of county players through its 87-year history, the Northumberland club’s short but tactically challenging layout and fast, undulating greens make it a stern test.

Make it though the opening stretch in a good score and you may begin to ask how the best players could go on to tackle the toughest courses in the UK and beyond – though you’ll quickly realise that Prudhoe bites back around the turn and into the back nine.

Short for many modern players at just 5,839 yards, the key to good scoring is patience and playing into scoring positions while respecting the toughest holes and having a sharp short game.

34 NORTHERN GOLFER

The opening seven holes are where scores are made with a number of short par fours yielding birdie chances should you play them sensibly and avoid the trees bordering the fairways.

Heading downhill, the 345-yard first plays shorter than its yardage, though a tight fairway is bordered by trees on both sides which will make approaches from either side tricky to a long, twotiered green with steep drops around its rear half and a deep greenside bunker at the front left.

Tougher tee shots wait at the second and third, which measure 308 and 385 yards respectively. Both tee shots will land out of sight – the second playing steeply uphill to a fairway which turns right to a small green with new trees narrowing the fairway at 220 yards. A deep bunker to the right of the green will leave a very tricky up and down particularly to the higher back half of the green. Meanwhile, you must play left at the third to avoid thick rough and out of bounds to the right – and leave an approach to the green with tall trees guarding the corner of the dogleg and blocking your view.

The par four fourth, fifth and sixth are all very good birdie chances, particularly the 265-yard fifth which is driveable, though four bunkers narrow the route to the putting surface. The first par three, the 175-yard seventh, plays longer than its yardage up the hill with two bunkers to the right waiting to catch any tee shots which leak right.

While scores are made in the opening eight holes, many of them are lost through the turn where tactical tee shots and accuracy are key.

The 357-yard eighth sweeps downhill away from the clubhouse and requires a long tee shot to have a good look at the approach to a generous green with two bunkers at the front edge.

The ninth is the toughest hole on the front nine.

At 416 yards, this dogleg par four sweeps right to left back uphill to the clubhouse with trees guarding both sides of the fairway and a bunker hidden to the right side at the top of the hill. A long second shot leads to a steeply tiered green which will make putts to the wrong half of the green very tough.

The par four 10th is the toughest hole on the

COURSEREVIEW

FACT FILE

course at 468 yards from the back tee. Played downhill, a long drive is required to leave as short an approach as possible to a wide green with severe slopes at the front.

The 174-yard par three 11th plays downhill and you must carry the ball to the green to avoid three front bunkers, while accuracy is required at the 12th with a tee shot playing up and over the crest of the hill leaving a short pitch steeply uphill to the green. Watch out for the burn in the fairway 50 yards short of the green at this 275-yard par four.

The par three 13th is a great looking short hole requiring a long and accurate tee shot between three bunkers well below the level of the green with out of bounds just beyond the back of the green.

One of the best par fives in our region, the 14th got our pick for signature hole (see fact file).

The steeply downhill par three 15th is the easiest par three at just 139 yards – though long putts can be very tough on a fast, sloping green.

At 16 your tee shot much reach the corner of the dogleg right at 240 yards to have a look at the green which sits above the fairway with a bunker to the right side which will gather anything missing the green on this side.

Two tough par fours lead back to the clubhouse. The 17th is a sharp dogleg right to left with a large tree in the centre of the fairway while the 18th is a very tough finishing hole with out of bounds left at this uphill, 461-yard par four. Play to the right side of the fairway to leave a long iron up to the top of the hill where the front edge of the green will feed anything short back into the fairway leaving a tricky pitch to another very fast green.

CONTACT Prudhoe Golf Club, Eastwood Park Prudhoe, NE42 5DX tel 01661 832 466 www.prudhoegolfclub.co.uk GREEN FEES Mon-Fri £18 (juniors £5) Sat-Sun £25 (juniors £7) Packages available for groups and societies

With a strapline like ’The Home of Champions’ it’s no wonder Prudhoe’s roll call of county, national and international honours stretches back to Neville Dunn, the 1951 British Boys champion and includes the likes of Janet Soulsby (British Stroke Play champion 1981-82), David Curry (Amateur champion 1986), Shaun Phillipson (British MidAmateur champion 1997) as well as Kevin Robson, Paul Armstrong, Wayne Phillipson, James Curry, Andrew Scrimshaw, Barbara & Helen Wilson and more.

TOTAL DISTANCE White tees 5,839 yards Yellow tees 5,698 yards Red tees 5,342 yards FEATURES Large clubhouse with bar/lounge and dining room Locker rooms and changing facilities Pro shop Practice range with short game area CADDY’S TIP Accuracy from the tee, with the driver and irons is key. Find the fairways and you can build your score SIGNATURE HOLE The 547-yard 14th at Prudhoe is one of the toughest par fives in our region. The drive must find the left of the fairway to leave the best view of the green and landing area for your second shot. Thick rough protects the right side of the hole and your lay up must avoid two bunkers to the left – which will gather anything landing too close to them. The approach is played steeply uphill to a small green with a steep drop off on the left side and trees and out of bounds right

OUR VERDICT A course management test which requires accuracy and a good putter – what more could you ask for?

NORTHERN GOLFER 35

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Great drive

Getting to grips with the new Renault Koleos Having made its debut at the Paris Motor Show last autumn, the all-new Renault Koleos has arrived at Lookers Renault Newcastle.

Expanding Renault’s crossover line-up, which includes the Kadjar and Captur, the Koleos offers the rugged capability of an SUV with the elegant refinement of a large executive saloon – perfect for heading off into the North East countryside to play a parkland classic or venturing further afield in comfort.

Assured handling, excellent interior comfort thanks to the focus on comfort for five occupants as well as the must-have opening panoramic sunroof option, plenty of boot space for your clubs, and advanced technology throughout ensure an exceptional experience for driver and passengers alike.

Interior comfort was a key part of the Koleos’ development with space throughout the cabin making journeys to the course a pleasure with rear knee room of 289mm among the best in class, while four USB ports ensure everyone is fully charged for their day on the course.

The spacious interior has not been detrimental to boot space – 458-litres with all seats in place and 1,690-litres with rear seats down. The Signature Nav model also features a powered automatic tailgate that can open or close the rear boot by a press on the keycard or, conveniently if carrying your clubs, by waving a foot under the rear bumper.

The Arkamys 3D Sound 4x35W DAB radio with seven-inch touchscreen R-LINK2

multimedia system ensures everyone is entertained and includes satellite navigation with TomTom® LIVE traffic updates, Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ smartphone replications, Western European mapping, Bluetooth audio streaming and handsfree connectivity.

Renault’s advanced driver assistance systems, such as advanced emergency braking system (AEBS), blind spot warning, lane departure warning, over-speed prevention with traffic sign recognition and hill start assist have been applied across the line-up. Meanwhile, a rear parking camera with front and rear parking sensors is also included on all versions.

The Koleos is offered in a six version, highend line-up based on two trim levels that will be familiar to Renault owners – Dynamique S Nav and Signature Nav, while the dCi 130 engine is available on both trim levels with a six-speed manual transmission and two-wheel drive.

The dCi 175 engine is available with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed Auto X-Tronic transmission – both with ALL-MODE 4x4-i fourwheel drive which adds all-terrain ability to the Koleos’ exceptional refinement.

The Renault Koleos is priced from £27,500 with 0% APR and other finance packages available, and is available to test drive now at Lookers Renault Newcastle, 6 Benfield Road, Newcastle, NE6 5XA, tel 0330 019 8352, www.lookers.co.uk/renault/contact/ newcastle-renault

HARROGATEFOCUS HARROGATE GOLF CLUB

Welcome to Harrogate This month we visit some of the finest courses in and around Harrogate M G

C

Founded 1895

HARROGATE GOLF CLUB This month’s tour starts at the stunning parkland layout at Harrogate Golf Club. Laid out by Sandy Herd in 1892, the MacKenzie-style greens and mature trees defend the 6,198yard, par 69 layout while demanding accuracy from the tee and a sharp

short game. A challenging layout, the course is one of the finest in the region in the summer months with its fast, undulating greens testing the best players, while offering a superb test of golf for players of all abilities. Just two miles from the centre of the town, the spectacular setting makes for a great

day on the course while the colonialstyle clubhouse is a great place to relax with good food and plenty of space to share stories of your round.

Harrogate Golf Club, Forest Lane Head, Harrogate, HG2 7TF tel 01423 862 999 www.harrogate-gc.co.uk

Masham Golf Club

A gem of a golf course set in the heart of North Yorkshire www.mashamgolfclub.co.uk

Home club of Dan Brown English Amateur Champion

At Masham Golf Club the members are proud to offer probably the best nine hole golf club in the country with facilities to match.

If your society is looking for a winter venue, then look no further than Masham; ✔ We NEVER use temporary greens ✔ We NEVER close the course * ✔ We use buggies and trolleys all year round ✔ We NEVER use fairway mats ✔ New members and visitors always welcome ✔ Flexible membership options * The course is only closed for health and safety reasons i.e. fog or lightning

For further information or to book your party visit telephone 01765 688054 or ring our pro on 07917 135330. p.s. the beer here is great

NORTHERN GOLFER 37

HARROGATEFOCUS MASHAM GOLF CLUB One of the friendliest clubs in the area, the nine-hole layout at Masham Golf Club has a storied history dating back to 1895. Sitting in picturesque parkland alongside the River Burn, you’ll find the course in excellent condition year-round thanks to its sandstone base and natural drainage, and the excellent attention to detail of the green staff. Tree-lined fairways protect this relatively short course -

though few are brave enough to try and overpower it from the tee. You’ll also find top quality ales on tap from Masham breweries Black Sheep and Theakston while PGA professional Andy Marshall has a fantastic shop here.

Masham Golf Club, Burnholme Swinton Road, Masham, Ripon HG4 4NS, tel 01765 688 054 www.mashamgolfclub.co.uk

PANNAL GOLF CLUB

MASHAM GOLF CLUB

PANNAL GOLF CLUB The beautiful heathland and woodland course at Pannal proves you don’t need to have a 7,000yard plus layout to provide a serious golfing test.

At 6,614 yards, it might be considered short by modern standards but it remains one of the area’s toughest courses, while offering stunning views of Almscliffe Crag to the west, the Vale of York to

the east and from the signature 17th hole to the north across a green valley to the impressive Crimple Viaduct and the spa town. With challenges throughout the round, its no wonder Pannal remains a host of top national tournaments.

Pannal Golf Club, Follifoot Road Pannal, Harrogate, HG3 tel 01423 872 628 www.pannalgc.co.uk

HARROGATE GOLF CLUB

MEMBERSHIP Join Harrogate’s finest with this great mid-season offer - 7 Day £639.00 | 6 Day £537.00 | 5 Day £478.00 Based on new members joining from 1st September 2017 through to 31st March 2018

CASUAL GOLF Play a midweek 4 ball from midday onwards for just £99.00, quoting Northern Golfer when you book your tee time For further details of these two great offers contact Kirsty in the club office on 01423 862999 or by email secretary@harrogate-gc.co.uk

38 NORTHERN GOLFER

HARROGATEFOCUS RIPON CITY GOLF CLUB Set in beautiful parkland, the 6,084yard course at Ripon City promises to challenge players of all abilities.

The rolling Yorkshire landscape provides natural elevation changes and frames many of the holes, while a combination of water hazards and bunkers will punish players who are too aggressive or find themselves out of position.

The finest example of this is found at the par three 14th. This 162-yard hole is played over water to a green protected by a bunker at the front left corner. Members and visitors in the clubhouse behind make this an even more daunting prospect.

Improvements to the course in recent years have added to the classic English parkland design, while maintaining the original style of the course and its architecture.

Ripon City Golf Club, Palace Road Ripon, HG4 3HH, tel 01765 603 640, www.riponcitygolfclub.com

OPTIMUM CUSTOM GOLF CLUBS We all know that custom-fit clubs can produce big improvements for all players and a visit to the experts at Optimum Custom Golf Clubs is recommended if you’re looking to fine-tune your game.

Based in Ripon, Optimum is a member of the International Clubmakers Guild and the team of experts specialises in club-making and fitting for every club in your bag from driver to putter. A number of top brands are available including Miura Golf, Wishon Golf, Tour Edge Exotics, Kronos Golf, Accra Golf and True Temper - including Rifle and Project X shafts. Based in Bishop Monkton, near Harrogate, club fitting and testing takes place at nearby Ripon Golf Range and Academy.

For more information tel 07879 848 332, email info@optimumcustomgolfclubs.co.uk or visit www.optimumcustomgolfclubs.co.uk

A WARM WELCOME AWAITS YOU AT THE PRESTIGIOUS PANNAL GOLF CLUB, ONE OF YORKSHIRES FINEST COURSES. SOCIETY & VISITOR PACKAGES AVAILABLE. CONTACT KEVIN FRETWELL, GENERAL MANAGER ON 01423872628 OR EMAIL SECRETARY@PANNALGOLFCLUB.CO.UK FOLLIFOOT ROAD PANNAL HG3 1ES WWW.PANNALGC.CO.UK

RIPON CITY GOLF CLUB Beautiful parkland course • Superb greens Excellent home cooked food Perfect venue for visiting parties and societies Visitors warmly welcomed

RIPON CITY GOLF CLUB

QUALITY CLUBS HAND BUILT FOR OPTIMUM PERFORMANCE - BUILT IN RIPON, YORKSHIRE

Authorised Dealer

ACCREDITED FITTER * FULL REPAIR SERVICE * LOFT & LIE See our website at www.optimumcustomgolfclubs.co.uk Call +44(0) 7879 848332 | email: info@optimumcustomgolfclubs.co.uk

ONE OF YORKSHIRE’S TRUE HIDDEN GEMS T 01765 603640 (EXT 1) E admin@riponcitygolfclub.com W www.riponcitygolfclub.com NORTHERN GOLFER 39

GOLFERTIPS

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

FEEL THE FORCE, DON’T FORCE THE FEEL When I’m playing a lot of golf I can struggle with maintaining my rhythm. This normally feels like I’m getting into a pattern of swinging quicker the more I play.

A good rhythm isn’t always a slow one, the key is sequencing the arms and body together throughout the swing.

A great drill to find your rhythm is to count out loud – saying one as you reach the top of your backswing and two as you go through impact. Keep repeating this on the range and you’ll soon find your natural rhythm and feel the force rather than forcing the feel.

40 NORTHERN GOLFER

YOUR 1 STOP ONLINE SHOP SUMMER SAVINGS PROV1’S FROM £1 PER BALL

LAUNCH MONITORS SWING CADDIE SC1 (WHITE / BLACK)

£199.99

SRIXON SOFT FEEL / AD333 - 50 £27.99

NOVELTY HEADCOVERS FROM £16.99

JUNIOR CLUB OPTIONS MASTERS MC J520

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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 August 31, 2017. Usual competition rules apply – available on request. Winners will be published in our next edition.

WIN TWO SEASON PASSES FOR THE BRITISH MASTERS AT CLOSE HOUSE We’ve teamed up with Close House to offer Northern Golfer readers the chance to win two season passes for the British Masters, September 28-October 1. The winner will receive two tickets to each of the tournament days and will be able to watch Europe’s best players in Northumberland.

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Who will host the British Masters at Close House?

WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT CHESTER-LE-STREET

WIN GOLF FOR FOUR WITH BUGGIES AND WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT BREAKFAST WITH TYNEMOUTH GOLF CLUB SLALEY HALL

Set in the shadow of Lumley Castle, the parkland layout at Chester-le-Street is a strategic test of your golfing ability with penal bunkering and ancient trees challenging the best players. Not the longest course, recent changes have opened up views and improved the course further.

An easy walk with challenging fairway bunkers and devilishly difficult greens, Tynemouth Golf Club has something for everyone. Club selection and distance control are key from the tee while working on your lag putting is highly recommended with large, undulating greens providing the course’s main defence.

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Which course will host the 2017 Walker Cup?

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: In which year did Gary Player win his last major championship?

Our Instagram competition with Slaley Hall is back this month, giving Northern Golfer readers the chance to win golf for four people with buggies, bacon sandwiches and tea/ coffee on arrival.

All you need to do is head over to Instagram and post your best golfing snaps with the hashtag #NorthernGolfer - and remember to include @northerngolferuk and @slaleyhallhotel.

We will be announcing the winner in next month’s magazine and featuring a selection of our favourite snaps.

Congratulations to last month’s competition winners: Castle Eden: John Chapman of Stanley • George Washington: Andrew Wright of Tadcaster Seahouses: Hazel Cummings of Chester-le-Street • Slaley Hall (Instagram): David J Forster (@jotheprogolf) 42 NORTHERN GOLFER

WIN£229 YOUR CHANCE TO

A G400 FAIRWAY

WORTH

LAST MONTHS WINNER - JOHN JOHNSTON FROM LONGHIRST HALL GOLF CLUB

QUESTION : WHO FINISHED 2ND IN LAST MONTHS OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP? A : MATT KUCHAR | B : JORDAN SPIETH | C : JUSTIN ROSE

EMAIL YOUR ANSWER TO: COMPETITIONS@ORIGINALGREEN.CO.UK COMPETITION CLOSES 31.08.17. WINNER WILL BE DRAWN RANDOMLY AND NOTIFIED BY EMAIL OPT IN CLAUSE AVAILABLE ON ENTRY TO RECEIVE FUTURE PROMOTIONAL EMAILS FROM ORIGINAL GREEN

WWW.ORIGINALGREEN.CO.UK VISIT US INSTORE AT LONGHIRST HALL GOLF COURSE

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YOUR FIRST LESSON WITH PGA PROFESSIONAL CARL NICHOLLS

N O R T H U M B E R L A N D

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TWILIGHT RATES AVAILABLE AFTER 2PM EVERYDAY FROM £10PP MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE FROM £17.50 PER MONTH 01670 791562 | enquiries@longhirstgolf.co.uk | www.longhirstgolf.co.uk

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 - maximum of 4 people per booking Valid until 31st October 2017 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

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)

Auld Cross Keys Inn

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STAY & PLAY - £85 per person per night on 2 people sharing

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

Tel: 01450 870305

bookings@crosskeysdenholm.co.uk www.crosskeysenholm.co.uk

The Green, Denholm, Scottish Borders, TD9 8NU

MATCHPLAYPAIRS

Last 16

Match Play Pairs 2017 – 16 teams remain

T

he final 16 teams are through to round three of the Northern Golfer Match Play Pairs 2017 tournament, with the winners set to receive a trip to the stunning Onyria Palmares Beach Golf Resort and the coveted title.

This year’s winners will receive a place in the NE/NW PGA Pro Am in Portugal alongside our region’s best professionals – with flights, accommodation and golf at the Onyria Palmares Beach Golf Resort in The Algarve all included thanks to golfingholidays.org.

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

This year you can keep up to date with all the results and round draws live at www.northerngolfer.co.uk/ mpp2017.

For more information go to www. northerngolfer.co.uk or contact Dean Bailey, dean@offstonepublishing. co.uk, tel 01661 844 115.

Round 2 results Match 33: Russell Jacques & Neil Glendining (Newbiggin) V Colin Marshall & Paul Tindale (Durham City) won 1up Match 34: John Potts & Graeme Robson (Ramside) won 1up V Jason Budd & Phil Graham (Bishop Auckland/Morpeth) Match 35: Doug Ellison & Richard Mellor (Slaley) won 7&6 V Graeme Ogilvie & Bob Fawbert (Rudding Park) Match 36: Alan Brady & Matthew Harper (Durham City) won 6&5 V David Bridge & Derek Shaw (South Moor) Match 37: Andrew Foster & Stephen Foster (Romanby) won 2up V David Morton & David Loughlin (Boldon) 44 NORTHERN GOLFER

Match 38: Robert Woods & Lee Sloane (Sharpley/ City of Newcastle) V Andrew Howard & Ashley Coveney (Bishop Auckland) won 2&1 Match 39: Michael Rutter & Matthew Turton (City of Newcastle/ Ryton) won 3&1 V Raymond Glendinning & George Freeman (Hobson) Match 40: Stephen Mould & Ryan Mould (Crook) V Matthew Sibley & David Wainman (Eaglescliffe) won 1up Match 41: Kevin Hill & Micheal Rowell (Arcot) V Luke Eustace & Mark Kelly (Selby) won 3&2 Match 42: Andrew Martin & Mark Morgan (Stocksfield) won 4&2 V Adam Murphy & Brendan Murphy (Tynedale) Match 43: Alan Saunders & Stephen Weldon (Westerhope) V Chris Wright & John Walton (Bellingham) won 3&2 Match 44: Peter Simpson & Barry Walker (Alnmouth/Bamburgh) V Alan Walton & David McColl (Durham City) won 20th hole Match 45: Peter Newman & Jason Green (Brancepeth) won 5&3 V J Cassidy & Karl Dullaghan (Warkworth) Match 46: Len Eyre & Alan Scambler (Magdalene Fields) V George Longthorn & Mark Brown (Crook/Seaton Carew) won 20th hole Match 47: Steve Slater & Andy O’Neil (City of Newcastle) won 4&2 V David Cameron & Rod Martin (Beamish) Match 48: Malcolm Lumsden & Richard White (Wallsend) won 3&2 V David Robison & Keith Goulbourn (Whickham) ROUND THREE MATCHES TO BE PLAYED BY SUNDAY AUGUST 27

ADVERTORIAL

RYTON GOLF CLUB - THE PERFECT PLACE TO RELAX NEW-LOOK CLUBHOUSE AND FANTASTIC OFFERS IN THE HEART OF THE TYNE VALLEY Ryton Golf Club has come a long way since it was founded in 1879 with a nine-hole layout designed by 1874 Open champion Mungo Park.

Having celebrated its 125th anniversary and undergone a major makeover, the club is looking to the future to attract new members and visitors by introducing them to some of the best views in the Tyne Valley while enjoying the flat, easy walking course.

An unmissable offer has been introduced for new members. For just £350 you can join now and a friend or partner can join for free until the end of the season.

Ryton Golf Club boasts some of the best kept greens in the area, providing

year-round golf thanks to its location on the banks of the Tyne while the recently refurbished lounge is a great place to rest those weary limbs after your round in comfort overlooking the excellent par three 18th hole.

There is also an excellent space available for events - from weddings to anniversaries - and those booking in August will receive the room free of charge.

The club is also now home to a fully stocked professional’s shop with Neil Whinham, who has more than 15 years of experience in the industry.

Come and experience one of Northumberland’s most welcoming golf clubs for yourself.

MEMBERSHIPS

New Membership deal-Now until March 2018 for only £350, bring a friend or partner for FREE as part of this deal. Very Limited offer, first come first served.’

GREEN FEES

Mon - Fri £12/pp Weekday Twilight £8/pp Sat/Sun/BH £20/pp Weekends Twilight after 4.00pm £10/pp Weekday Fourball £40 | Weekend Fourball £70

FUNCTIONS

NEWLY RENOVATED AND REDECORATED FUNCTION ROOM FOR HIRE. IDEAL LOCATION FOR ANY SPECIAL OCCASION. BOOK YOUR FUNCTION NOW AND RECIEVE FREE ROOM HIRE. OFFER END AUGUST 31ST.

Clara Vale, Ryton, Tyne and Wear, NE40 3TD

www.rytongolfclub.co.uk

|

Tel: 0191 413 3253 NORTHERN GOLFER 45

from the

bunker

Following last month’s story showcasing the Beamish Park seniors section’s new kit, Iain Logue sent in this picture of the

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

Congratulations to Dennis Nolan, who has recorded his first holein-one.

A former Seniors captain of Percy Wood, Dennis aced the par three 10th in the Seniors Open at his home club using his trusty rescue club alongside playing partners Martin Osborne and brotherin-law Bill Tarbit. Got a hole-in-one story to share? Email editor@ northerngolfer.co.uk

Northumberland senior county team in their new outfits – sponsored by Utilitywise and AkzoNobel. Looking good gents!

The Northumberland Union of Golf Clubs looks set to add a star player to its side following The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale.

County captain David Gilroy snapped 2013 US PGA Championship winner Jason Dufner with an NUGC ball while at the event, though he admits Dufner may not be an automatic selection with his current line-up sitting second in the Northern Counties League having won the highest number of game points after three matches.

Well done to the staff of Banks Group, who helped raise £1,400 for the Alzheimers Society in a charity golf day at Warkworth Golf Club.

Organised by John Morton, a plant operator at the firm’s Shotton surface 46 NORTHERN GOLFER

mine near Cramlington and his wife Alison in honour of John’s mother who has dementia, the tournament was won by the team of Ray Dunn, Stephen Dunn, Trevor Dunn and John Strachan.

Well done to all involved.

Congratulations to David J Forster (@jothegolfpro), winner of this month’s Instagram competition with Slaley Hall.

You can enter this month’s competition, and more, on page 42.

SERIOUSLY LOW UNBEATABLE PRICES

(CLEARANCE SALE ON MANY STOCK ITEMS) MANY GREAT OFFERS ON EX DISPLAY SETS OF WOODS, IRONS & WEDGES NEW QUALITY EPIC/ EPIC PRO AUTHORISED CUSTOM FIT EPIC SPECIALIST. ALL DEMONSTRATION IRONS STOCKED & ALL SHAFT OPTIONS AVAILABLE AT NO EXTRA COST! TOP PART EXCHANGES GIVEN, CALL IN TODAY , YOU WON’T BE DISSAPOINTED.

BIG SAVINGS ON QUALITY CLOTHING, EG PURCHASE ANY OSCAR JACOBSEN SWEATER OR TROUSERS & RECEIVE A OSCAR JACOBSEN SHIRT FOR 1/2 PRICE. HURRY WHILE THESE OFFERS LAST

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PRICE PROMISE AS ALWAYS WE GUARANTEE TO BETTER ANY COMPETITORS PART EXCHANGE DEAL ON IRONS/ WOODS SEEN A PRICE OR DEAL, CALL IN AND SPEAK TO US YOU WON’T BE DISSAPOINTED

WE PRICE CHECK ALL OUR STOCK ONLINE TO MAKE SURE YOU GET THE LOWEST PRICE ALWAYS (PRICE PROMISE) How to find our superstore Leave A1 (m) at junction 63 Chester-le-Street and follow B693 to Stanley, turn left onto B6532 (Asda roundabout), follow road to end and turn right, pass Blomfomtein School and follow sign to South Moor Golf Club

Your No 1 Discount Golf Store

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

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

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