'The London' Golf Club Magazine produced by www.runwildmedia.com

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THE LONDON GOLF CLUB MAGAZINE

golf club magazine

2008 ART • MOTORING • FASHION • BEAUTY • SHOPPING • EVENTS • FOOD & DRINK • SPORT • TECHNOLOGY •TRAVEL • PROPERTY

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LONDON european open RECORD NUMBERS FOR CLUB DUBAI GOLF DrIVING IN THE DESERT CLASSIC COOPER OUR ‘ENRY PACKS A PUNCH

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CONTENTS KING FISHER 12

Ross on his European Open win

EUROPEAN OPEN 17

Big numbers and big names for The London Golf Club

JACK NICKLAUS GOLF 20 Play the Bear’s best courses

GOLFING OASIS 25

Dubai’s desert miracles

MALLORCAN GOLF 29 A royal round

SKIING 30

The best of the unknown

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY 34 A view to buy for

GOLF IN AFRICA 36

A walk on the rough side

ART 42

Pieces cast from the past

BEING BOND 45

Live the life of an agent

JET SET 48

Fly & drive the best courses

07

Photography by Sarel Jansen Limited Edition Pinstripe Waterproof Suit by Ralph Lauren RLX (for details see page P76) Sweater & Tie: Ralph Lauren

Photography by Sarel Jansen Him Waistcoat, Shirt, Trousers and Belt: JLindeberg Her Dress: Hugo Boss, Belt: Stylist’s own, Jewellery and Watch Photography

by Sarel Jansenby Boodles

CONTENTS 08

52 MOTORING

Can you Caterham?

56 GOOD GROOMING

The best for the metro male

58 JEWELLERY

Boodle-icious pieces for every occasion

60 INTERIORS

Ralph Lauren from runway to hallway

66 HENRY COOPER

Below the belt with the boxing legend

70 STYLE

His & hers fashion for the fairways

82 PADRAIG HARRINGTON

The Irish golfer’s luck and drive

88 GREENKEEPING

The science behind the surfaces

90 THE O2

Ski your way to 2009 events

94 RECIPE

A seasonal soufflé local to London

96 WINE

Alice Tozer raises a glass to Bacchus!

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Farah Syed, Holly Willis, Tomas Hubbard-Green, Cat Hughes, Sarah Collinson

LONDON GOLF CLUB MAGAZINE

Editor Abigail Nance Head of Design Hiren Chandarana Project Manager Kate Harrison Deputy Editor Kasha Van Sant Editorial Assistant Stephanie Baxter Editorial Assistant Josephine O’Donoghue Editorial Assistant Cat Hughes Editorial Assistant Alice Tozer Fashion Photographer Sarel Jansen Sales Director Eren Ellwood P.A. to Sales Director Ella Kilgarriff Graphic Designer James Britton Graphic Designer Victoria Wren Managing Director Giles Ellwood

Tel: +44 (0) 1474 879 899 Fax: +44 (0) 1474 879 912 Stansted Lane, Ash, Nr Brands Hatch Kent TN15 7EH 4/4/08

15:38

Page 1

FRONT COVER Photography by Sarel Jansen HIM Waistcoat, Shirt, Trousers and Belt: JLindeberg

Abigail Nance Editor

GOLF CLUB MAGAZINE

2008 ART • MOTORING • FASHION • BEAUTY • SHOPPING • EVENTS • FOOD & DRINK • SPORT • TECHNOLOGY •TRAVEL • PROPERTY

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LONDON THE

PJ - A4 master:Perrier Jouet UK.qxd

THE LONDON GOLF CLUB MAGAZINE

“One is only as good as one’s last success”- a phrase never to be forgotten in my view. But it’s hardly up to the individual to gauge their own accomplishments.

Looking back on 2008, The London Golf Club certainly had its fair share of highlights, in what many would consider a tough and turbulent year. Without doubt the most notable achievement was securing the 2008 European Open which saw some of the world’s greatest golfers come to Kent.

A line-up including Sergio Garcia, Padraig Harrington, Ian Poulter and Colin Montgomerie led to record-breaking crowds turning out for the first day of the tournament and close to 60,000 for the entire event.

Significant media coverage on a regional, national and international level threw The London Golf Club into the golfing spotlight where the course and facilities received noteworthy praise from the players, the European Tour and sports journalists alike.

Now with a desire for success on our minds, other opportunities are being pursued and being chosen by the Royal & Ancient to host the 2010 Open Championships Regional Qualifying certainly sees the Club heading in the right direction.

Always endeavouring to improve our standards to become one of the country’s great golfing venues, dedicated to quality and customer service on every level, measured success is something for which the Club will continue to strive.

THE

FROM THE EDITOR

HER Dress: Hugo Boss, Belt: Stylist’s own, Jewellery and Watch by Boodles

EUROPEAN OPEN RECORD NUMBERS FOR CLUB DUBAI GOLF DRIVING IN THE DESERT CLASSIC COOPER OUR ‘ENRY PACKS A PUNCH

I S S U E

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Reeling

them in

INTERVIEW Wimbledon with the wife took precedence over a practice round for The European Open. But playing The London Golf Club’s Heritage Course blind was perhaps one of the best decisions of Ross Fisher’s career to date...

“Who is Ross Fisher?”; a question on many spectators’ lips at The London Golf Club last July and not an unreasonable one. Before The European Open, the now 28 year old professional was something of an unknown entity, having only joined the European Tour two years previously.

But since his emphatic win, Fisher has barely been off tournament leader boards.

“That week gave me a lot of confidence and since then I’ve been trying to press on and get some more decent performances. So obviously at Loch Lomond I had a great week and then at The 2008 Open as well, and then the Mercedes Benz. It’s just given me that extra bit of self belief to know that I can win and play good golf.”

10 birdies – six of them successive – launched the Wentworth golfer into the headlines as he carded an aweinspiring -9 par 63 on the first day. It was the lowest round of his professional career and one which annihilated Seve Ballesteros’ 1994 course record.

“It was just one of those days where everything seemed to go well for me. I got off to a great start with two opening birdies. I then miss-hit a chip on the next but still managed to make par, which secured my momentum and from there on in I couldn’t put a foot wrong. I had a bogey at the 17th and then a par at the last – which I birdied the following three days.”

After such a performance and having finished joint 3rd in the Open Championship qualifier only a few days earlier, Fisher’s string of good fortune surely couldn’t continue. After all, fatigue from a busy schedule almost led to him pulling out of the event. But he kept going. He led throughout the tournament and eventually finished an impressive seven shots clear of runner-up, Sergio Garcia.

“It made me feel great to win by such a margin and against so many top players. To win any tournament is thrilling and I was delighted to do so, but as it was such a big tournament and to see the quality of the field, it was obviously even more significant. A 7-shot victory as well – it’s stuff that you just dream about. I turned around and

looked at the leader board and there was my name, -20 under and then I saw other guys, like Harrington, about 23 or 24 shots behind. It was just crazy!”

To say that The Heritage Course suited Fisher would be an understatement. He made unfamiliar territory very much his own. Even the increasingly tough weather conditions on the last day seemed to work in his favour.

A mammoth 413 yard drive on the 9th hole and a holed bunker shot on the 18th just proved the point.

“It was just one of those weeks, my week, when everything I seemed to try came off. I just felt an immense sense of calmness. I felt that my game was in pretty good shape. I was driving the ball well. My iron play was pretty solid and my short game was in tip top shape. Basically if you can drive the ball long and straight on The Heritage then you’re in with a chance.”

The 2008 season certainly marked the emergence of Fisher as a force to be reckoned with on Tour. Among his achievements were joint–second in the HSBC Championship, where he was just pipped by Phil Mickelson in a three-way play off with Lee Westwood, 39th in The Open, 20th in the KLM Dutch Open, tied-10th at the Johnnie Walker Championship, tied-7th in the British Masters and an impressive third in the Mercedes Benz Championship. The latter result, had it come a week earlier, could have been Fisher’s ticket to Valhalla.

“It was very disappointing not to get in the Ryder Cup team but, as I have said to many people, it wasn’t a goal of mine at the start of the year. But when I had such a good start to the season it became more of a reality. I wasn’t going to get upset about it though. There are plenty more Ryder Cups. Obviously I would have loved to have been there, but I had my chances and unfortunately I didn’t take them, like my 8 on the last at The Open. So I will have to wait for the next one and I’m confident I’ll make it.”

Fisher is unquestionably steady and realistic in his approach to all angles of the game. He talks of the goals he sets himself and readily seems to be achieving. His main

13

Fisher holed his bunker shot on the 18th to win the European Open

14

aim in 2008 was to cement his position in the top ten on the European Tour Order of Merit – a feat he successfully accomplished. He’s also now inside the top 50 in the Official World Golf Rankings.

For him in 2009, it’s all about the big events – playing the four Majors and the three World Golf Championships.

Fisher says it’s always been his dream to get this far and further. Entering into the game at the tender age of three, thanks to his stepfather, he is now playing alongside some of the golfing greats that he aspired to be like.

“When I was growing up it was Ernie Els who I worshipped because I just love his classic golf swing, his tempo, his rhythm and just the way he goes around a golf course. His demeanour is impressive; how very relaxed, calm and composed he is. That’s definitely influenced my approach to the game.

Now that Tiger has come along though, the bar has just been set that much higher for everyone else.”

With Fisher’s length, precision, general mental strength and confidence in his own ability, he’s already a contender against his golfing icons. 2009 will be a decisive year for the rising star. Only a fool would bet against him reeling in a few titles.

He’s already looking to the next European Open and hopes it will be back at The London Golf Club where he clearly feels right at home.

Fisher Facts Most memorable round: First and last of The European Open at The London Golf Club Favourite Course: Augusta, which I’m looking forward to playing in 2009 Item you can’t live without: My mobile phone, closely followed by my Xbox Favourite holiday destination: Venice, where I proposed One thing to do before I die: Win a Major Championship Favourite food: A good old Ruby Murray!

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at the european open

EVENT The London Golf Club has bided its time to secure a prestigious tournament such as The European Open. With an all star golfing line-up including 2008 Open Winner Padraig Harrington, Sergio Garcia, Colin Montgomerie and Justin Rose, it was always destined to be a big event and a real crowd-puller. However, even The European Tour was surprised when more than 23,000 spectators turned out on the first day

Despite being a new location after a 13 year stint at The K Club and previously being a relatively hidden gem in the golfing world, The London Golf Club grabbed national and international headlines, as well as more than 35 hours of Sky coverage, thanks to record breaking scores, praise for The Heritage Course and the odd professional outburst.

Defending champion Monty failed to make his mark on the scoreboard. Instead Ross Fisher dominated the four days, finishing -20 par, while Garcia came runner-up seven shots off the pace, and Ryder Cup rookie Graham McDowell took third place in a tournament that captured the county.

It’s estimated that the event brought more than £5.5 million worth of revenue into Kent that week. Quite an impressive income for the Garden of England, but that’s not the only figure that adds up to make The European Open the success it was. So we compiled some of our favourites...

17

open season 1 British Boxing Legend

at the london golf club

63 shots for course record -20 par to win ÂŁ506,392

ÂŁ2.4 million prize fund

500 Volunteer Marshalls

1978 Hospitality guests

23 Pro Am teams 76 Flag Poles

1 snappy dresser!

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735 Grandstand Seats 3475m2 of Tentage 16 miles of Rope 2500 White Stakes 500 Crowd Barriers

89 Umbrellas sold

300 Accredited Media 40 On-Course Microphones, 21 TV Cameras & 60 Camera Positions

50 Tournament Greenkeepers

9,600 Practice Balls

EVENT 152 Professional Golfers

It’s one of the biggest tournaments on The European Tour.

Some of the most celebrated names in golf play in it. And, for the first time in 14 years, it has returned to England The ‘luck of the Irish’ was nowhere to be seen last year, as the country bid farewell to one of golf’s major events.

1 Defending Champion 2007 marked the end of a mammoth 13year run for The K Club as the home of The European Open. What the Irish have lost though, London has gained in 2008, as The European Tour elected to take its flagship tournament back across the waters to England and to a new venue – The London Golf Club. on Free No23,856 stranger Spectators to championship golf, Ticket Thursday 57,221 Spectators having staged The Bendinat London in Total Seniors Masters for the past three years, The London Golf Club was deemed the ideal successor, with its Jack Nicklaus signature Heritage Course. Fending off tough competition from other renowned courses, General Manager Heath Harvey regards The European Tour’s selection as testament to the Club’s improving status as one of Europe’s leading golf venues: “The London Golf Club may not have the history of some of its competitors, but what it lacks in tradition it makes up for with sheer quality. The fact that we are now only the seventh venue to host this prestigious tournament reinforces our continued efforts to establish ourselves as a premier facility, alongside the likes of Wentworth, The K Club, Turnberry and Sunningdale”.

Drawing annual crowds of more than fifty thousand, The European Open is among the Tour’s most significant events.

Often referred to fondly as the jewel in the crown, it’s one of the richest tournaments after The Open Championship. Last year’s total prize fund was nearly £2.5million, putting the fixture not far outside the four world majors. It makes for quite an attractive pot even for some of the bigger golfing guns, such as the 2007 European Tour Order of Merit Winner Justin Rose, Ryder Cup players Paul McGinley and Lee Westwood and 2007 Open Winner Padraig Harrington.

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10 Articulated TV Lorries

1000s of autographs 771 Merchandise Credit Card Transactions

THE

NICKLAUS NETWORK T R AV E L

Just one of the benefits of membership at The London Golf Club is being able to play golf the world over

MEXICO, ARGENTINA, Indonesia, China, Australia or closer to home?

Whether you’re a serial globetrotter, the owner of a holiday pad abroad or you’re just profiting from a well-earned break, the options for playing golf are endless, especially if you’re a member of The London Golf Club.

As a Jack Nicklaus venue with one signature course and an equally immaculate championship sister course, the Club is automatically part of another exclusive group; the Jack Nicklaus International Golf Club.

A reciprocal-playing network created solely for members and owners of the Golden Bear’s facilities, it means you can take your pick from more than 125 of the world’s finest golf courses and play them all at Members’ Guest Rate.

Not a bad little perk if you have a look at what’s on offer. Here’s just a selection:

PEARL VALLEY, SOUTH AFRICA Probably one of the best golf courses in South Africa, Pearl Valley is set in the heart of the Cape Winelands against a beautiful mountain setting. Bordered by 500 luxury homes, this 18 hole, 7,438 yard championship course is home to the South African Open. With lush fairways and contrasting white sand bunkers, Pearl Valley has its fair share of tough holes. The 13th requires three tricky carries over a creek before you reach the green.

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LOXAHATCHEE CLUB, FLORIDA, US The name of the Club may be a mouthful but the course is certainly one to get your teeth into.

Described by the Golden Bear himself as one of his “most imaginative courses”, this 18 hole signature is a classic links in style. Within a year of opening in1985, it was voted “Best New Private Course” and, the following year, was ranked among the “Top 100 Courses” in the country. Set in 340 acres with 286 homes lining the fairways, the Club also offers an Activities Centre equipped with pool, gym facilities and tennis courts. Photo credit Jim Mandeville

NICKLAUS NORTH, CANADA Another wonder of Whistler. Far from just a ski resort, this ‘alpine’ village has been voted among the top 20 golf destinations in the world. Nicklaus North’s unbeatable panoramic mountain and lake views turn any bad round into a pleasurable one. A majestic emerald lake, fir trees and the invigorating mountain air combine for an unrivalled golf experience. This awardwinning course makes Whistler a destination for all seasons.

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PALMILLA, MEXICO Voted among the world’s top 100 resorts, the “One and Only Palmilla” is not to be missed.

Offering 27 holes in the golf renowned region of Los Cabos, here Nicklaus has created a course typified by a fine blend of desert and sea.

Fairways are dotted with towering cacti, deep arroyos and all holes have remarkable vistas.

Going away and fancy testing out this exclusive membership of the Jack Nicklaus International Golf Club? Then speak to The London Golf Club professionals.

They have a list of courses which you are eligible to play and will make all your tee time bookings for you.

Nicklaus Design has:  Close to 350 courses open world-wide  60+ courses in Top 100 lists  600+ professional tournaments on 87 different courses

Jack’s Stats:  105 professional victories  18 Major-championship titles  Played on 6 Ryder Cup teams

22

CHAPELCO, ARGENTINA

 Captained 2 Ryder Cup teams

The scenery speaks for itself. Set in the heart of Patagonia with the Andes as a breathtaking backdrop, this is Argentina’s first Nicklaus course.

Fishing, kayaking, snow skiing, trekking and hunting are just some of the sports to do there in addition to golf, making this resort an ideal retreat especially with its onsite 5* hotel.

 Named “Golfer of the Century”

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TURNBERRY 2009

YOU AND YOUR CLIENTS OFFICIALLY AT THE OPEN

16-19 JULY 2009

Golf and business have long been the closest of partners.

Official Open Golf hospitality enables you to spend all day with your guests and clients.

Choose from exciting new packages to suit every budget.

If you are going to do one hospitality event in 2009, make it The Open Championship at Turnberry.

To book and for more information please visit: www.opengolfofficialhospitality.com or call +44 (0)844 371 0883

Publication Name: London Golf Magazine

T R AV E L The odd bunker makes any golf course interesting.

Play in Dubai and it’s all about the sand

25

GOLFING in the

GULF

LittLe more than 20 years ago, there was only one golf course in Dubai – a sand one. t two decades on and the city’s golfing portfolio, much like its phenomenal property and business expansion, has flourished apace and continues to do so.

Voted ‘emerging Golf Destination of the Year’ in 2001 and then ‘established stablished Golf Destination of the Year’ from 2003 to 2006, the jewel in the United Arab emirates’ crown is now renowned as both a business and a golfing hub.

Back in 1988, a ‘Desert miracle’ was born in the

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club

26

shape of the Emirates Golf Club – the first all-grass championship golf course in the Middle East. With verdant fairways contrasting with indigenous flora and fauna and a unique clubhouse styled on a Bedouin tented village, the Club continues to be one of the region’s market leaders.

Sporting two courses, it’s the golfing oasis of the Arabian Desert.

‘The Majlis’, a par 72 of 7,301 yards, is home to two of the European Tour’s premier events; the Dubai Desert Classic and the Dubai Ladies Masters. For five consecutive years, it was voted ‘Best Golf Course in the Middle East’ while its par 73, 7,348 yard sister course, ‘The Wadi’ by Faldo, is a compliment with its rolling terrain and the Ryder Cup Captain’s trademark tees and bunkers.

Feel up the creek without a paddle when it comes to golf? Perhaps Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club has the answer. In the heart of the city and on the shores of the creek, this is a true golf resort with a championship course, golf academy, six restaurants/ bars, a gym, swimming pool, a marina and a 225 bed Hyatt hotel.

The par 71 course is lined with date and coconut palms and has a number of attractive water hazards. The 6th hole is the most unique with its tee box set on stilts ten metres into the creek. Once again this clubhouse is iconic in design, modelled on the sails of a traditional Arab Dhow (sailing vessel).

It will take more than a Dhow to help the world’s top professionals in their Race to Dubai though. Starting in November 2008 and replacing the European Tour’s Order of Merit, this innovative season-long competition will culminate at the city’s Jumeirah Golf Estates. With four courses designed on the elements earth, wind, fire and water, it’s the ideal venue to test the Tour’s top sixty players as they vie for the $10 million prize fund – the biggest pot in golfing history.

The pros are racing to Dubai, why not beat them to it?

A reciprocal agreement means London Golf Club Members can play all three Dubai Golf courses at Members’ Guest Rate. The London Golf Club takes care of all bookings.

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The Wadi, Emirates Golf Club

Looking to play real golf?

Mallorca

has just the course….

GOLF Mallorca isn’t short of golf courses, so how can you ensure that you have found the best?

The King of Spain has given it the royal seal of approval and with the name Royal Bendinat Golf, or Real Golf de Bendinat, it’s certainly regal in title. But what makes it the perfect holiday course?

Just seven kilometres west of Palma, this 18-hole par 70 of 6,190 yards is set in the heart of a wooded valley. With the front nine stretching towards the sea and the back towards the Na Burguesa Mountains, it offers players of all standards a varied and enjoyable round. But accuracy off the tee is imperative otherwise many a ball could be mislaid.

Elevated tee-boxes provide fantastic views over the hills and down to the bay of Palma. The 15th is particularly spectacular, but the tricky dogleg with trouble to the left can soon ruin a blistering round.

A very undulating back nine is the perfect excuse to hire a buggy, especially if the Balearic heat is at its peak. But a relaxing drink on the 19th terrace will reward any player.

Home to a number of tournaments, including the annual London Golf Club Pro-Am, the course can certainly separate the men from the boys. One of more than twenty clubs in the island it should be top of the list for any Mallorcan golf break.

As The London Golf Club’s sister club, members benefit from reciprocal playing rights

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LET IT SNOW t r aV e L

Stephanie Baxter finds the best non-traditional ski destinations to escape the crowds this season

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For ThoSE Who are seasoned skiers, the thought of hitting the European Alpine slopes this coming winter might not fill you with the sensations of excitement and exhilaration that an impending ski holiday ought to. They may, indeed, be replaced by a feeling of dread, as your mind starts to picture the endless queues for the chairlifts, the overcrowding on the ski runs and huge groups of rowdy students taking over the bars and restaurants, spoiling your perfect notion of après-ski.

Despair not. There is a wealth of alternative destinations that are relatively unknown by most skiers, all of which can offer not only an excellent quality of snow that is every bit as good as their Alpine counterparts (if not better), but also some wonderful locations to explore and other activities to try. I’ve picked the best and most interesting of such destinations to help you along your way in your quest to escape the hustle and bustle of the Alps.

happo-One, Japan

When one thinks of Japan it’s more likely to be along the lines of business than skiing – the high-rise skyline of Tokyo with all its colourful lights and busy streets is what generally comes to mind. Yet it’s safe to say that most people don’t realise just how ideal it is as a snow holiday destination. Did you know that it has, for example, one of the highest average snowfalls in the world?

As well as more resorts than any other country: 700, to be precise, compared to the USA’s 470, which seems somewhat measly, considering the countries’ respective sizes.

Furthermore, the mountains in Japan are lower than those found in Europe or the USA, which makes it a perfect location for those who suffer with altitude sickness.

Crowded slopes are definitely not to be found here, given the Japanese work ethic.

Less holiday leave and extremely long working hours mean that the slopes are usually fairly deserted, especially during the week. Goodbye chairlift queue.

Situated in the beautiful Hakuba Valley, the Olympic resort of Happo-One presents itself as an idyllic skier’s paradise, with its abundance of fresh powder snow being deposited on the slopes by the strong Siberian wind. Having hosted the downhill, slalom and ski-jumping events in the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, the resort is a virtually undiscovered gem among Western skiers, and has much to recommend it both on- and off-piste.

Happo-One offers an extensive range of non-skiing activities, including snowrafting, snow-shoeing, hot air ballooning and mountain biking. Perhaps the best of these, however, are the more Japan-specific attractions. In fact the perfect way to relax after a hard day’s skiing is to take a dip in an ‘onsen’ or outdoor hot natural spring bath. You may even be able to spot Japan’s resident macaques, affectionately known as ‘snow-monkeys’, who have been spotted on occasion having a soak too! The resort is also renowned locally for its wide range of restaurants and bars, offering a wealth of traditional Japanese cuisine, as well as Italian, Mexican and Chinese food. The Korean BBQ restaurant, in particular, is an extremely popular eatery, where visitors cook their own food at the table over hot coals, a fun and different way to dine. Situated only 4 hours away from the capital by bullet train, the resort is the ideal place to get a traditional taste of Japan in Tokyo.

The beautiful Sierra Resort is a wonderfully modern but luxurious hotel situated in the heart of the Japanese Alps, very close to the town, and therefore an ideal location for Happo-One skiers. The ski season here is longer than in Europe, often running from as early as midNovember to as late as the end of May, giving you maximum time to tear up the glorious Japanese slopes.

31 Baqueira-Beret, Spain

For those who don’t wish to disregard Europe altogether, but still want to ski somewhere a bit different, look no further than Spain. Since it is the most mountainous country in Europe after Switzerland, it makes perfect geographical sense as a great location for skiing. Its southerly placement on the continent, however, often acts as a disguise as a purely sun holiday destination. But with the Sierra Nevada in the south of the country, and the Pyrenees in the north, Spain offers its visiting skiers rich pickings when it comes to the slopes.

Nestled among the spectacular scenery of the Pyrenees, the resort of BaqueiraBeret is the biggest of Spain’s northern mountain range and is frequented by King Juan Carlos and his family, which gives some indication as to just how good it is.

It is accessible from Barcelona airport

only 200km away, and also makes it a great location for doing some city sightseeing.

Many foreign visitors, however, prefer to travel to Baqueira-Beret from Toulouse airport, which is just 160km north across the French border affording a wonderfully scenic, albeit slightly never-wracking drive along the narrow mountain roads. Expect old Catalan villages, beautiful waterfalls and dramatic canyons.

The village at Baqueira-Beret has been purpose-built from wood and stone, departing from the usual concrete look that one would expect from a 1960s resort.

The result is a far more aesthetically pleasing setting compared to many other ski locations. The pistes are geared mainly towards intermediate skiers, with 25 blue and 30 red immaculate runs on offer, although skiers of all abilities are catered for through the provision of 4 green and 4 black additional runs.

Baqueira-Beret offers a wide range of pursuits including heli-skiing, para-skiing, cross-country trails and snow racket walking. Boredom is simply not an option.

And if all that isn’t enough, the resort is renowned for possessing some of the best restaurants in all of Spain, and indeed Europe, so you can be sure to refuel for another dash across the slopes.

Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand

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Ask anyone what comes to mind most when thinking of New Zealand and there will almost certainly be no mention of skiing. Most responses may well involve a reference to Lord of the Rings, since it is common knowledge that it was filmed there. Yet it really is fast-becoming the place to be for keen skiers, especially if you’re eager to get some practice in during the summer months; the ski season typically runs from early June until early October – the Kiwi winter. And the best thing about New Zealand is that it’s the ideal location from which to see and do those once-in-a-lifetime sights and activities, from visiting glaciers to bungeejumping or whale watching. It’s the perfect all-rounder destination.

Mount Ruapehu is one of the best places for skiing in New Zealand. Located right in the middle of the North Island, it boasts both of the country’s largest and highest ski areas. Whakapapa, the biggest, boasts extensive lifts and groomed trails, and is well-renowned for its vast range of eateries and après-ski activity. Turoa, on the other side of Ruapehu, is the highest ski area, with the biggest vertical drop at a staggering 722m. Away from the slopes, Turoa offers ski-diving, mountain biking and horse-trekking to keep the adrenaline going well after you’ve come off the pistes.

Visitors to Mount Ruapehu don’t have

to choose between the two areas, however.

A lift pass is available that covers both, in case you fancy a change of scenery from one day to the next.

Mount Ruapehu is the tallest of the three volcanoes in Tongariro National Park, and as such is the highest point of the North Island. It also affords spectacular views of Mount Ngauruhoe, which acts as Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Special film tours can naturally be arranged. Whilst currently lying dormant, the Ruapehu is still classed as an active volcano making it a truly unique destination. How many people can say that they’ve skied down the side of an active volcano?

Saariselkä, Lapland

Lapland is traditionally known as the homeland of none other than Santa Claus, rather than as a skiing destination, and when I travelled there as a ten year old child I got the distinct impression that it was flat.

Apparently not. Lapland is, in fact, very well suited to skiing because of its abundance of slopes, not to mention an endless supply of perfect white snow guaranteed from December to April. The quality of the snow is what makes skiing in Lapland a wholly new skiing experience, even for the most advanced skier since it is very fluffy and dry, and much unlike the snow anywhere else.

No lift queues and practically empty ski runs are just two of the main attractions to Lapland. The slopes there are extremely wide, which can often make them seem deserted at times. Cross-country skiing, in particular, is an extremely popular pursuit among the locals, with hundreds of miles of cross-country slopes stretching across the breath-taking Lappish terrain.

Saariselkä is Europe’s most northerly winter-sports resort, making it an ideal location to catch a glimpse of the stunning northern lights. The landscape is truly among the most beautiful to be found anywhere in the world, with snowcapped trees at every turn and the purplepink sky high above. The people of Lapland have a rich history, and the Inari Sámi museum is a great place to gain an insight to it. It is also a particularly good resort in terms of après-ski as it boasts many restaurants, bars and pubs that offer live music and entertainment.

The best aspect to Saariselkä, however, is the provision of alternative activities.

Snowmobiling, ice-fishing, snow-shoeing, dog-sledding and reindeer sleigh rides are just some of the exhilarating activities that can be undertaken. There really is nothing quite like whizzing through the snow with the sound of half a dozen husky dogs’ cries ringing in your ear, and I would advise anyone to put it on their life’s list of things to do.

www.noirluxur y.com

A

ROOM VIEW WITH A

Cala Llamp Bay

PROPERTY 34

Most hungry property buyers will have a shopping list and right at the top is usually a very soughtafter prerequisite: views. But finding the ideal location and the exact outlook isn’t always easy

WITH THESE LUXURY apartments in Mallorca though the vistas are guaranteed - after all it’s in the name.

Breaking away from the more traditional developments on the Balearic isle, Las Vistas offers something quite unique. Sitting prominently on one of the island’s most idyllic coastlines, Cala Llamp, and only a stone’s throw from the picturesque harbour town of Andratx, this south-facing complex is modern, minimalist, and without question, breathtaking.

From land, crystal blue waters and rugged cliffs can be taken in from every vantage point and balcony. On a perfect day the eye can see as far as neighbouring Ibiza. On a not so perfect day, well, there’s no such thing in Mallorca.

From the sea, Las Vistas cannot be missed. The distinct and contemporary design stands out majestically from neighbouring builds, which fail to overlook on every level.

If you’re demanding location, location, location, this is impossible to beat.

Drag yourself away from the views, and the apartments themselves are delectably easy on the eye as well. Each two and three bedroom unit has a terrace and the penthouses, their own rooftop solariums.

Every element of the interiors has been finished to quite simply the highest standards; Philippe Starck bathroom fittings, SieMatic kitchens and Miele appliances. No corner has missed the designer treatment. Rooms have floor to ceiling windows (maximizing on the development’s namesake), Jacuzzi-spa baths, closed wood burning fires, flat screen televisions and teak flooring. There’s no question, Las Vistas was built with vision.

Local architect Alejandro von Waberer’s concept was to veer away from the Mediterranean style which dominates Mallorcan architecture, while making the most of the views and the space. “We have taken a huge leap forward, jumping a few rungs of the evolutionary ladder, and going straight to a modern, minimalist style both inside and out.”

Even before the project was finished, six of the eighteen apartments were snapped up.

Stand on one of the balconies and you won’t need to ask why.

International property consultant, Victor Owen, believes the development is cutting edge for Mallorca. “One finds similar apartments in South Africa, Italy, New York, London, and so on but this type of architecture and design is not so prevalent on the island. The development should attract the more sophisticated end of the market where, increasingly, clients are looking for this minimalist look; smooth flowing lines rather than the more rustic look which is seen all over the island. The apartments are in a prime location and should provide comfortable homes as well as an excellent investment opportunity.”

A point of view to take note of. Looking to secure your place in the sun? Then perhaps you should have Las Vistas in your sights.

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Apartments are priced from 840.000.

Las Vistas is a project by The Bendinat Group, an international company which has been developing luxury properties for more than 25 years.

For more information visit www.bendinat.com

RHINOS IN THE ROUGH 36

T RA V E L Farah Syed discovers a really wild golf break in South Africa

Golden sunsets, exotic wildlife, luxury accommodation and, of course, verdant golf courses probably feature in your idea of the holiday of a lifetime. It sounds like an unlikely combination to achieve, but it’s far from just imaginary.

Thanks to amazing golf safaris from Wedge and Wildlife, visitors can find complete tranquillity on the fairway amidst the rough of the savannah.

The South African wilderness is known for its breathtaking sights and stunning animal inhabitants. Dark nights engulf you in a sense of mystery as creatures’ cries reverberate all around. Imagine the thrill of waking up in the morning to find a leopard sleeping in the hammock outside your lodge!

South Africa also boasts a superb climate that allows golfers to play in sunshine all year round. While there are well over 100 courses in the country, with a number of them ranked in the world’s top 50, there is one panoramic setting that sets itself apart from the rest.

Leopard Creek

The exclusive Leopard Creek golf course, designed by Gary Player, is South Africa’s number one bushveld golfing destination, located on the southern border of the Kruger National Park. Here, you are more likely to encounter giraffes than other golfers on your round.

Uninterrupted views of the Crocodile River, teeming with herds of elephants or pods of hippos in the late afternoon, could easily distract you from your crucial putt for par. And when a traditional siren sounds, it’s not to warn you about an oncoming storm but a leopard sighting. Boasting fairways like carpets and a pure blue sky, Leopard Creek is challenging but fair, with electrifying greens that require pinpoint accuracy for your approach.

After a round of golf, it’s time to drive the ten minutes to Buhala Lodge. Here, on the viewing deck overlooking the river, weary golfers can relax, have a sundowner, chat to owners Sugar and Arthur Rhodes, observe the game without moving a muscle, or ease those tired limbs at the open deck spa.

Set in a private and serene location, Buhala is a lovely thatched lodge featuring ten spacious en-suite bedrooms and two stylish garden suites with their own plunge pool and indoor and outdoor showers.

Facilities include a cosy bar and swimming

Buhala Lodge

pool where personal service, fine food and nuanced wines enhance the experience.

And when the more adventurous are not playing golf, they can even try their hand at micro lighting over the edge of the Kruger National Park or fly-fishing nearby.

After five nights and many unforgettable moments on the golf course at Leopard Creek, visitors move on to Londolozi.

Located in the midst of the Sabi Sands on the edge of the Kruger National Park, it is the ideal place to go on safari. Londolozi prides itself on ensuring that guests are practically alone with the animals in more than 20,000 acres of exclusive bush.

Leopard sightings are a near certainty each day.

Rooms at the Londolozi Lodge feature stone walls with elegant contemporary decor.

Lamps surround the pool and, if preferred, guests can also eat outside, overlooking the river and the wildlife. Warm, balmy nights complete the idyllic atmosphere.

From the roars of lions echoing across the night-time landscape to the blur of a golf ball shooting into the azure sky, there are few golf getaways that offer a more unique experience.

For further information on this and other African trips, call 020 7228 5777 or visit

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A ‘HEAD’ FOR

INVESTMENT ART If you have a keen eye for artwork or are a collector of canvas then it’s likely you’ve delved into the world of sculpture

GENERALLY EVERYONE is positively negative about investments in the current climate. As the housing market bottoms out, pension funds peter out and banks burn out, there’s not much to fire one’s passion for purchasing.

However, for those with income to spare, there is a way to make padding out your portfolio an alternative art.

The returns from paintings and photography are notable and certainly well-documented. But as with any investment it’s all about making the right choice and holding onto the work until it’s the ideal time to sell – that’s if you can part with it.

Sculpture is the one strand of art which is slightly harder to come by, but it does have a thriving niche market. Pieces are unique due to their three-dimensional nature and they always make for an interesting talking point - whether they’re to your taste or not.

While buying a bronze may not traditionally be as secure as purchasing a property, there have been some fairly impressive tales of profit, with the world record for a sculpture sale reaching circa £14 million ($27.5million).

Gerry Farrell of Mayfair’s Sladmore Gallery feels that if you add the

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it’s all about making the right choice and holding onto the work until it’s the ideal time to sell – that’s if you can part with it enjoyment and aesthetic appreciation you get from a bronze to the possible rise in its value over the years then it becomes an irresistible, if less concrete, investment than more traditional alternatives.

One distinct value of buying sculpture is undoubtedly its versatility. You can opt for interior or exterior pieces to enrich your home or your workplace. Certainly, it’s now commonplace for art to be factored into any new building development and in some places it’s actually a legal requirement.

So whether it’s a lead horse’s head, a bronze leaping lion or a mandarin duck, there’s always room for art...

Works by Mark Coreth, Nic Fiddian Green and Geoffrey Dashwood are being exhibited at The London Golf Club.

Visit www.sladmore.com

Discover...

...five beautifully restored Coach Houses at Sundridge Park, Kent The Grade II listed Coach Houses at Sundridge Park have been beautifully restored to form 5 elegant and spacious homes over 2, and in one case, 3 floors.

Adjacent to two renowned golf courses, surrounded by breathtaking parkland and benefiting from a fantastic specification, Sundridge Park offers everything you could desire for a modern, comfortable lifestyle in a truly classical and unrivalled setting.

Prices from ÂŁ725,000 Call: 020 8313 7468

www.sundridge-park.co.uk Building Excellence

Marketing Suite & Show Apartment now open. Viewing by private appointment only.

RECYLINGHISTORY ART CAT HUGHES takes a look at exquisite pieces of the past

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MEN CAN BE notoriously difficult to buy for at the best of times, but what do you get the man who has everything? Art? Memorabilia?

A car? How about a combination of all three?

Now you can do exactly that by dipping into the Aladdin’s Cave that is TMB Art Metal.

Unique historical artefacts have their passionate stories retold with a modern contemporary twist, to create exciting pieces evocative of a bygone age; all are inspired by the heroic deeds of Sergeant Ray Holmes on Battle of Britain Day, 15 September 1940.

Holmes, who was flying a Hurricane P2725 TM-B, took drastic measures to stop a lone German bomber heading straight for Buckingham Palace. With his ammunition exhausted, the only alternative was to fly

into the aircraft to tear into the bomber’s rear fuselage. After disabling the bomber, Holmes lost his Hurricane, bailed out and survived to live another 65 years.

His fighter was not so lucky, hitting the ground at 400mph and burying itself under Buckingham Palace Road. This became the single most celebrated event of the Battle of Britain.

64 years later, the Hurricane TM-B’s remains were excavated by TMB Art Metal’s Managing Director, Christopher Bennett.

The devastated Rolls Royce engine, together with other historic remnants, are now on display in the Imperial War Museum. With the remaining fragments of the aluminium Merlin engine casting from the Hurricane itself, Bennett commissioned sculptures of the fighter. He presented one to Her Majesty the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh at Buckingham Palace, where it remains on display.

Such was the interest in these sculptures that it led to Bennett starting up TMB Art Metal: “My passion is to create works of art, and jewellery (often miniature works of art in their own right) such as cufflinks, that incorporate actual metal from an historic and iconic subject, be it an aeroplane such as the Hurricane or a famous car such as the Ferrari 250GTO, thereby adding true history and provenance to the pieces as well as innovative artistic design.”

Each of the Hurricane sculptures is accompanied by a certificate signed by the

pilot himself. But it’s not all about sculpture, as parts of the fighter were made into limited edition spinner cufflinks, using the lower portion of the control column stalk and brass from the Merlin engine.

But if a piece of the Second World War does not tickle your fancy, how about cufflinks made from the Old Number Two Bentley? This car was purpose-built by Bentley to compete in the 1930 Le Mans Race, in which it ultimately came second to its stable-mate the Old Number One. Prior to this, the Old Number Two won the 1930 Brooklands Double Twelve driven by the legendary ‘Bentley Boy’ Woolf Barnato. Only 175 radiator cufflinks have been cast from the car’s original main bearing shells and the engine’s front closing plate. The figure in the centre of the cufflinks is cast from 18ct white gold and the arms are of solid yellow gold.

Designers at TMB Art Metal don’t stop at metal from iconic cars. Even interiors’ materials don’t escape their exacting eye. The leather from a legendary Ferrari 250GTO, the seventh ever made, is one such example. This GTO was originally built for racing, but was retired in 1965 and modified for road use. The owner at the time added a bespoke leather interior and, from this, 65 leather wallets have been created. The wallet also has a miniature essence of the car, made from the original panel sections.

Bennett has also recycled another piece of great British history. He took bronze from the Flying Scotsman 4472, the first

steam engine to go non-stop from London to Edinburgh, and cast it into cufflinks reminiscent of the train. The bronze comes from the 4472’s old axel boxes. In fact, the detail of the cufflinks, which were produced by the noted York-based sculptor Stephen Allen, is astounding, especially those cast in the likeness of the cab side. TMB’s latest achievement is a 24” sculpture of the Flying Scotsman, made from parts of the iconic locomotive, complete with sterling silver smoke.

It’s not just the story behind these pieces of history that sets them apart – it’s the loving detail. “TMB products are a fusion of luxury with heritage which offer custodians the opportunity to own, and even wear, a visually fascinating piece of history”, says Bennett.

Maybe the man who has everything doesn’t have everything after all. You can certainly be sure that he does not own a piece of a legendary World War Two Hurricane!

Christopher Bennett 020 8810 9997 info@tmbartmetal.com www.tmbartmetal.com

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AN EXCLUSIVE MAYFAIR RESIDENCE YOURS AT A FRACTION OF THE COST 47 Park Street, Mayfair, is a lifestyle investment that makes financial sense, and is the superlative choice for those who require an occasional base in London, without the overheads of owning a property outright.

The property’s concept of fractional ownership allows you to own a share of a residence at 47 Park Street, to be used at your convenience, while providing the amenities and service of a five-star hotel. Fractional ownership, under stewardship of the world renowned Marriott brand, eliminates the burden of managing your second home, provides compelling financial options, gives you personal flexibility and extends your lifestyle.

For more information about this unique residential opportunity, visit www.47parkstreet.com, call +44 (0)20 7950 5528 or email info@47parkstreet.com.

The show residence is open daily by appointment. Prices from £109,000.

47 Park Street • Mayfair • London W1K 7EB • +44 (0)20 7950 5528 • www.47parkstreet.com

47ParkStreet 210 (w) x 297 (h) The London Golf Club Magazine W/C 24/03/2008 I/D 01/04/2008

BECOMING

BOND LIFESTYLE Stephanie Baxter finds out what it takes to step into the shoes of 007

Fighter pilot, Formula 1 driver, fireman, astronaut, footballer, rockstar, James Bond. Being 007 is right up there in the list of things that most males want to be when they “grow up”. And let’s face it, Bond is probably the best of all of these.

After all, he gets to travel to the most exotic destinations, play with the coolest gadgets and drive the fastest cars. The pretty girls are hardly a disadvantage.

Yet for most men, this is simply a fantasy.

Unless your name is Sean Connery, Roger Moore, George Lazenby, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan or Daniel Craig, that is.

There is, however, a growing number of Bond-related products and experiences, which is not surprising given the huge success of 2006’s Casino Royale and the anticipation which preceeded 2008’s Quantum of Solace. Credit where credit is due though – there is a big market for this, considering that about half the adult population would love to follow in the footsteps of 007 when it comes to fast cars and luxury holidays. I’ve picked out the best experiences and products, some marketed toward Bond wannabes and some not, to take you one step closer to becoming Bond.

Bond fans could hardly forget the opening scene of Goldeneye where he falls effortlessly from the top of an immense Russian dam, before breaking into a chemical weapons facility. Voted as the top stunt of all time, Black Tomato (www. blacktomato.co.uk) can offer daredevils

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Ocean Club Suite, Villa Livingroom

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the experience of a lifetime in helping to recreate that exact opening sequence.

Actually located in Locarno, Switzerland, the Verzasca dam stands at 220m high, offering perfect views of the stunning Swiss landscape as you prepare to do your jump. Taking place all within a weekend, you can be back in the office on Monday, in the knowledge that you’ve accomplished Bond’s biggest stunt.

The exotic settings in every Bond film form part of the allure of the Double ‘O’ lifestyle. From Prague to Rio, he lives a travel life of complete and utter luxury.

One such location is the Caribbean islands of the Bahamas, as featured in Daniel Craig’s first 007 film, Casino Royale. The very suite in which he’s shown using his laptop is actually available to rent at the One&Only Ocean Club on Paradise Island (www.oneandonlyresorts.com).

The Ocean Club exudes the Bond lifestyle from every corner with its world-class golf course, indulgent spa and immaculate accommodation, so you can be sure to get a taste of 007 travel at its absolute finest.

The Ritz Hotel, London (www. theritzlondon.com) also plays a part in the quest to become like Bond. At the end of the novel From Russia With Love, he has an appointment in the hotel bar. The hotel wants to celebrate this partnership, and taking the centenary of Bond creator and author Ian Fleming’s birth as its cue, it is proudly offering, for a limited time only, the opportunity to follow in 007’s footsteps. A trip to the Ian Fleming exhibition at the Imperial War Museum will be followed by pre-dinner cocktails in the Ritz bar and a 4 course dinner in the Ritz restaurant. The night will then be perfectly concluded by a visit to the exclusive Ritz Club where you will be able to play the tables in true Bond style, after which you will retire to your room in the hotel for a good night’s sleep, being woken with a classic English breakfast.

Double ‘O’ heaven.

In every high-speed chase in the films, there’s always either a beautiful car or boat which serves as Bond’s getaway vehicle, the

latter often providing even more exciting and exhilarating scenes to watch. With that in mind, Livett’s Launches (www. livettslaunches.co.uk) have a range of vessels which can be privately chartered for a trip down the Thames, à la Pierce Brosnan in The World is Not Enough. Well, maybe at a slightly more leisurely pace. The Princess V48, one of the fastest crafts on the Thames, is the epitome of nautical luxury and elegance, and can accommodate up to 10 guests for Bond-like speed. The Fletcher 19 Arrowhawk GTS, on the other hand, has the look of a 007 speed boat (think Live and Let Die or Moonraker), and with room for up to 5 people, she makes a fast and fun river outing for true fans of the Double ‘0’ agent.

Casinos go hand-in-hand with gadgets, expensive cars and Vodka Martinis (shaken, not stirred, of course) when it comes to identifying James Bond, and this is never so prominent as in Casino Royale – as the title would suggest. The actual casino itself is fictional, although it has been reported that Ian Fleming based the one in the novel on the real casino at Deauville, which still stands today. Located in the northwest of France, Casino Barrière de Deauville (www.lucienbarriere. com), looking more like a royal palace, is one of the most luxurious in Europe and, most conveniently, has 3 hotels all within a short distance of the casino. Perhaps the most appropriate of these is the Hôtel du Golf Barrière which, with one of the finest courses in France, is a golfer’s haven amid a setting of complete peace and tranquility. By day, play golf like Bond when he beats Auric Goldfinger in the 1964 film Goldfinger, and by night take the casino tables by storm, as he so often does.

Now unless you get a job at MI6, it is very unlikely that you will actually get to be like 007 full-time. Yet, with so many Bond-esque experiences, being him in your spare time has never been so easy. And let’s be honest, you wouldn’t want to be like him all the time, would you? Ruthless villains with metal teeth and steel-rimmed bowler hats are something you can do without.

GET THE LOOK S TYL E you don’t have to be special intelligence to grab a bit of bond

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1. The phone Keep as up-to-date as Bond with the latest Sony Ericsson mobile phone, the C902 Cybershot, featured in Quantum of Solace. £299.99 www.se-store.co.uk

2. The watch An iconic piece of wristwear, the Omega Seamaster has been worn by either Pierce Brosnan or Daniel Craig in every Bond film since Goldeneye.

Omega has brought out a limited edition 007 version, which is based on the 300M model, as seen in Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace. £1,950.00 www.goldsmiths.co.uk

3. The case

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First made for the 1963 film From Russia With Love with its trademark red skiver lining, the Swaine Adeney Bond Attaché case is widely-known to be issued to all 00 agents as standard

by Q-Branch. A good thing too, since it actually saved Bond’s life many times throughout the film. £1,450 www.swaineadeney.co.uk

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FLYING

FOURSOME

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GOLF What better way to get the stresses of the working week out of your hair than jetting off in style YOU’VE SPENT THE whole week in meeting after meeting, looking forward to that round of golf on the weekend. You and your three fellow travellers get to the airport only to have to queue to check in your golf clubs as oversized luggage, then join the never ending queue for security.

When you get to your destination, you pick up your golf clubs only to find them scuffed and looking worse for wear.

But what if you did not have to queue?

What if your golf clubs came out of the plane the same way they went in? Billed as the only way to travel by anyone who is anyone, a private jet is really the only way

St Andrews

to have the best golfing experience. In the quiet town of Farnborough, lies one of the UK’s most luxurious private jet companies, Vista Jets. Offering the opportunity to tailor make your golfing weekend, this really is the ultimate transportation.

Whilst airborne and heading to your first golfing destination, Le Touquet (La Mer), you and your friends could be tucking in to a freshly made breakfast,

The K Club

served on real plates by Vista’s expertly trained air stewardesses. When you land, a limousine has been prearranged to whisk you and your golf clubs to La Mer, one of the top 100 golf courses in the world, for a mid morning tee-off. Whilst you navigate bunkers at this stunning course, which is set amongst the sand dunes of Pas de Calais and has stunning views over the English Channel, your Vista Jet staff will be preparing the plane for your next departure.

Aboard the plane and on your way to the next course of choice, the Kildare Country Club, one of the most opulent resorts in Europe, the stewardess will serve you and your companions a late champagne lunch. This time you will walk off the aircraft and on to your own personal helicopter to arrive in true style. The K Club, as it’s more fondly known, takes up 550 acres of the Kildare countryside and the River Liffey winds its way through the course providing a hazard on several holes, especially the 7th, where the fairway is surrounded on both sides.

Another one to watch out for is the 16th hole, a potential card wrecker. Let’s hope that you still have an accurate aim after your champagne lunch!

Enjoy a pre-dinner drink to compare golfing performances of the day, before a relaxed evening meal at one of the four excellent restaurants on offer at the K Club. Just ensure you have an early night to guarantee an optimum performance the following day.

Begin your leisurely morning with a satisfying breakfast and indulge in a massage to loosen the shoulders. Just after lunch, your helicopter once again picks you up to take you back to your airliner for even more fun in the sky. Sip champagne as you make your way to Scotland to tee off in one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious golf courses.

As you land near to St Andrews, enjoy the beautiful views; the air is cool as you prepare to tee-off for the final time this weekend. St Andrews is ranked fourth in the world and it’s easy to see why. If Africa is the cradle of man, then St Andrews is the cradle of golf. People have been playing the game in this corner of Scotland since the 12th century and the fairways have seen some of the most famous people in history play. Like its memorable players, St Andrews has some memorable holes, with the 17th being the most famous. On the television, the ground can seem flat but it’s full of hollows, humps and ripples; the greens have the most extraordinary and interesting putting surfaces in the world, making for a challenging round.

As the sun begins to set, your car will take you back to your jet and you will begin your journey home. Whilst in the air, the stewardesses will serve your freshly made dinner and afterwards open up some vintage cognac which is sourced by Vista’s concierge service. When you depart with your golf clubs still in one piece, another car will take you home for a well-earned rest.

Private jets are no longer the preserve of CEOs, pampered celebrities and international party people. They can be used to entertain clients, provide a loved one with the ultimate golfing experience, or be at the centre of a business event.

Intrigued? To find out more and to soar to new heights of luxury hospitality, contact Vista Jet. www.vistajet.com Tel 01252 526 620

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CALIFORNIA DREAMING M O T O R ING Josephine O’Donoghue takes a ride in the latest Prancing Horse from Ferrari

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After a series of special previews on the web and two dedicated events staged in Maranello and Los Angeles, the Ferrari California finally made its official debut at the Paris Car Show to a wildly enthusiastic reception.

Taking its inspiration from the spirit and emotions of one of the great Ferraris of the past (the 1957 250 California), this new car joins Ferrari’s high performance 8-cylinder range – and, like the rest of the current Ferrari models, the California’s sleek aerodynamic styling is the result of Ferrari’s longstanding collaboration with Italian designer Pininfarina. The original California was a superbly elegant open top car designed for the track, which has, over the years, come to symbolise superior sportiness, performance and faultless craftsmanship. It only takes a moment in the company of the 2008 California to appreciate the synergy of Classic design with modern innovation and comfort.

Viewed head-on, the car clearly takes much of its inspiration from its namesake, the prestigious ‘Prancing Horse’ car. But a host of original flourishes and signature Ferrari styling cues give the California a distinctive modern muscular poise whilst retaining the familiar sleek elegance harking back to the 250 GT California. Of course, the interior also reflects the same level of

design sophistication, exuding a sense of refined luxury, comfort and bespoke quality. Situated between the front seats, the new aluminiumtrimmed centre console is another distinctive touch that goes beyond the merely aesthetic, beautifully combining functionality and design.

Ferrari has not compromised a single detail to create the ultimate driving experience; the California’s engine note, one of the great Ferrari signatures, has even been carefully developed to ensure that acoustic comfort in the cabin is perfectly harmonised with the trademark driving thrill (experienced with retractable folding hard top in either configuration). Boasting 0-100kmh in less than 4 seconds and with a new direct injection V8 engine producing over 450hp, the California’s performance is rivalled only by the most exclusive sports cars on the road today. Its 7-speed gearbox with steering wheel-mounted F1-style paddles, coupled with a new dual clutch and a catalogue of performance-optimising technical wizardry, really make The California a dream to drive.

Although retaining the essence of a pure bred track car, the California has been built to appeal to those who also prefer to enjoy the open road.

As Michael Schumacher recently summarised at a Ferrari dealer convention in Maranello, “the

Ferrari California is designed for everyday use and for weekends away, whilst still guaranteeing all of the emotional impact that only an authentic Ferrari can deliver”.

In line with Ferrari tradition, this model positively brims with innovative features combining versatility of use and in-car comfort.

It is available exclusively as a convertible in either a two-seater version, with a traditional rear bench, or in the 2+ version which sees the rear bench equipped with seating for one to two passengers. In both versions, the rear backrest folds down to allow the stowage of longer items such as golf bags or skis. The boot capacity is also impressively generous: 340 litres with the top up and 240 with the top down. In the cabin, a new electrically adjustable, magnesiumframed seat has been specially developed for the California, as is the combined analogue / four-screen TFT Multifunction display instrument panel. The Ferrari California also boasts a new infotainment system with 6.5’’ touch screen, Sat Nav, USB connection, Bluetooth, hard disc, voice commands and IPod connector.

Ferrari has not disappointed in the safety department either, as the California is fitted with an ejectable roll-bar which deploys in less than 190 milliseconds to ensure that its occupants are protected should the car overturn.

The system is installed behind the backrests of the rear seats and is hidden by the trim. The onboard safety equipment is completed by front

retractable airbags (for driver and passenger), side retractable air bags in door panels, bi-xenon headlights and LED rear lights. New generation adaptive headlights, known as AFS (Advanced Frontlighting System) offer improved visibility on the road. The headlamp beam angles are automatically adjusted in line with steering, angle, speed and lateral acceleration, offering a wider area of illumination when cornering.

The California is available in a choice of 16 different pastel and metallic colours. However, clients also have the option of ordering the new Azzurro California shade created especially for the car’s launch. In addition to the usual range of 12 leather colour choices for the interior trim, Ferrari has just added two new colours: Cioccolato and Iroko. And for those Ferrari clients who wish to create their California to suit their own tastes and requirements, the Carrozzeria Scaglietti Programme will cater to their needs, focusing on four main areas: Racing and Track, Exteriors and Colours, Interior and Materials, Equipment and Travel.

With the UK model available for just over £143,320 OTR, which includes a four year warranty, a NavTrak security device, satellite navigation system and a tyre-pressure monitoring system all fitted as standard, the California offers surprisingly competitive value for money in its class. www.ferrari.co.uk

51

Boy

RACER

52

M O T O R ING Josephine O’Donoghue gets to grips with the Caterham Seven

The Seven

In Action!

Designated “too fast to race” and banned from motorsport competition by the authorities in the 1970s, the Seven has evolved into a British motoring icon – albeit one with a bit of a reputation. The original British lightweight sportscar, the Seven was created by motoring mastermind Colin Chapman and launched as the Lotus 7 in 1957, several years before Caterham stepped in, in 1973. For over 50 years, numerous variations of the car have embodied the Chapman design ethos of ‘adding lightness’; the low mass of the car makes it naturally agile, resulting in sharp and accurate performance. Of course, this design also lends itself to the car’s most appealing attributes - a unique driving experience with an unparalleled sense of purity, control and results.

Today there are more Sevens on the road than almost any other single marque, and with over 700 competitors in 11 countries during the 2006 season, it’s clear that the Caterham Seven has become something of an international obsession.

2009 is set to be a busy year for the iconic Caterham Seven.

The latest challenger, the 2 litre, 175bhp Caterham Motorsport Duratec engine R300, is guaranteed its own grid (between the Superlight R400 Championship and the Roadsport A Championship). “The R300 has been designed to bridge the gap between these two models, in terms of both outright performance and driver development,” explains Caterham Motorsport Manager, Simon Lambert.

2009 is also preparing to welcome an additional third grid for the superbly successful Caterham Academy. The Caterham Festival, last held in 2007 to commemorate the Seven’s 50th anniversary, is looking for a new European home.

Working closely with the BRSCC to host a summer Festival, Caterham Cars is hoping to confirm the greatest motor racing circuit in the world: Spa-Francorchamps. The introduction of a new French-run series for the ever-popular CSR 260 is also on the drawing board, whilst Caterham is also negotiating the creation of a new class for the CSR within the well-established German-organised 100km series. Marking the end of the UK-run EuroCup, this expansion to Europe signifies a greater international appreciation for the classic British Seven. “Competitor support for the EuroCup has diminished in recent seasons, but there is still a significant number of competitors keen to race in Europe and we are working hard to provide opportunities for them.”

Latest Designs Marking 15 years of the famous Caterham Driving Experience (CDX) Days, Caterham Cars has taken its motto ‘Designed for racing, built for life’ and re-designed a high-specification limited edition replica of the tyre-smoking cars. The first twenty CDX limited edition cars included over £2,000 worth of performance extras, such as a 135bhp power unit. Mimicking the highly focused abilities and style of the original Sevens used on CDX days, these stunning cars boast a tuned version of the renowned K-Series power-plant, a limitedslip differential and track day roll-over bar, creating a serious racer as well as a reliable motorcar for the road.

Caterham Motorsport Club Station Avenue Caterham, CR3 6LB 01883 333 700 www.caterham.co.uk

Drive of your life The Slalom is the most popular driving event for Caterham Cars and gives participants the opportunity to go wild on the track around a tight coned circuit. Precision driving skills are required to slip, slide and spin the cars through the course in the quickest possible time. The emphasis is on fun, and full tuition from our instructors is a central part of the experience.

These no-nonsense cars are set up to provide maximum entertainment, whilst you power-slide your way through the specially designed course. The infra-red timing beam will activate as you wheel-spin from the start, your time is continuously displayed, and is then stopped as you accurately park the Caterham within the garage area. This event is pure entertainment and a great chance to drive a Caterham in a way that would get you arrested on public roads!

We’re offering one lucky reader a Caterham Slalom Experience at Silverstone or Brands Hatch. To be in with a chance of winning, please email your name and telephone number to competitions@runwildgroup.com with Caterham Cars in the subject box.

Entries are required by 30 April 2009. The editor’s decision is final.

Inspired decision. Smart choice.

The Porsche Boxster accelerates from 0 to 62mph in just 6.1 seconds, yet delivers a combined fuel consumption of 30.4mpg and VED ‘Band F’ CO2 emissions.

Combined with a Porsche Preferences finance plan, you can afford to be inspired.

The Porsche Boxster. From £426 per month to the limits you set.

Cash Price

£33,640.00

Deposit

£7,000.00

Amount of Credit

£26,640.00

First Monthly Payment

£500.25

35 Monthly Payments

£425.25

Guaranteed Minimum Future Value

£17,045.93

Total Amount Payable

£39,429.93

Typical 8.9% APR Call 01732 361222 or visit www.porsche.co.uk/tonbridge

Porsche Centre Tonbridge Brook Farm Five Oak Green Road Tonbridge TN11 0QN info@porschetonbridge.co.uk

Fuel consumption/emissions in accordance with 80/1268/EC. mpg Urban 20.5; Extra Urban 41.5; Combined 30.4. CO2 emissions (g/km) 222.

The Guaranteed Minimum Future Value is the value of the vehicle at the time your contract ends. Advertised finance offer available on a Porsche Boxster with 12 month road fund licence and first registration fee through Porsche Financial Services on a Porsche Preferences Plan, at participating Porsche Centres. Image shown for illustrative purposes only. Terms and conditions apply. Other finance offers are available but cannot be used in conjunction with this offer. All finance subject to status to over 18’s only. Subject to availability. £75 acceptance fee is included with first payment and £25 option to purchase fee is included in Guaranteed Minimum Future Value. Contract is based on annual mileage of 10,000 miles. Excess mileage will be charged at 14p per mile. Porsche Financial Services, Bath Road, Calcot, Reading, Berkshire, RG31 7SE. Registered in England number: 3708834. Porsche Financial Services Great Britain is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

The doors are

Open

No longer exclusive but very much inclusive, The London Golf Club has a membership to suit every player’s needs.

From Individual 7 and 5 Day to Corporate and Family, the Club has tailored its tariffs to offer golfers unparalleled value and flexibility.

As a commercial venture, the Corporate Membership really does make business sense. With three options to choose from, Silver, Gold & Platinum, both small and large companies can profit from entertaining their clients on the two championship courses and in the Clubhouse’s extensive meeting rooms and restaurants.

Thanks to a simple debit system, businesses can credit their club accounts by as little or as much as they desire throughout the year to cover green fees, practice facilities and buggies/ trolleys.

All London Golf Club Members benefit from reciprocal playing agreements with a number of courses including the Emirates and Dubai Creek Clubs in U.A.E and Royal Bendinat Golf Club in Mallorca, Spain. As a Jack Nicklaus International Golf Club, Members can also play Nicklaus’ courses the world over at Guest Rates. Plus, membership entitles you to priority bookings for VIP Hospitality at Club tournaments, such as the European Open and the London Seniors Masters, not to mention use of our VIP seats at the O2 arena and preferential rates on the Club’s conference and event suites.

Starting from £3,000, there isn’t a better club of which to be a member. For more information contact The London Golf Club Membership Office on 01474 879899 or contact membership@londongolf.co.uk

membership@londongolf.co.uk

Just Relax, James Britton braves the world of male pampering

56

man

a wholistic appRoach >> Despite a stubbornly fading taboo, demand for male grooming is at an all-time high, and now thanks to Wholeman salon, the discerning man can be pampered on a whole new level. Located in New Bond Street, Wholeman’s flagship store opened in November 2006 and offers customers a whole host of products and spa treatments aimed exclusively at men. From a wet shave and haircut to traditional Swedish massages, salt scrubs and acupuncture treatments, Wholeman guarantees a luxurious and relaxing experience. Fully-qualified health consultants are also available to provide tailored healthcare advice.

Products encompassing hair, body and face care, as well as vitamins and supplements, gifts and fragrances are available to purchase at the store or on the salon’s website. Open Monday to Friday 10am - 7pm, Saturday 10am - 6pm and Sunday 11am - 5pm.

Wholeman 67 new Bond street London, W1s 1Ua 020 7629 6659 www.wholeman.co.uk

<< Just the tonic Smoothly blending the calm gentility of the gentlemen’s clubs of yesteryear with the sophistication of the 21st century, Gentlemen’s Tonic offers men a traditional barbershop with a myriad of lifestyle and grooming services in a pleasantly masculine friendly environment. Every treatment room and haircutting station even offers music consoles and LCD screens. The stresses of a busy city life can be eased away with an extensive range of massage treatments and unique packages, such as The Hemingway, are available to suit different people. Designed to be enjoyed “after a heavy night of drinking and bull fighting”, The Hemingway package consists of a Bloody Mary, aromatherapy facial and massage. Gentlemen’s Tonic skin and haircare range, Babassu and Bergamot, was three years in the making and is specially formulated for men. Hand and foot treatment, electrolysis and waxing are also available at this chic salon. Open Monday to Wednesday 8am - 7pm, Thursday 8am - 8pm and Saturday & Sunday by appointment only.

Gentlemen’s Tonic 31a Bruton Place Mayfair London, W1J 6NN 020 7297 4343 www.gentlemenstonic.com

no o nickel-and-dime affair >> Based in the famous Seven Dials shopping centre in Covent Garden, Nickel Spa aims to provide men with the very best of spa treatments which rejuvenate and revitalise. These range from manicures, pedicures and facials to waxing and botox. A number of massages are available at the Nickel Spa, including the Hot Stone Massage, where heated stones are placed on the body in order to alleviate tension; and the Deep Tissue Massage, where more force is applied in order to ease chronic muscle tension. Technical treatments such as Microdermabrasion and the Alpha Beta Face Peel treat fine lines and wrinkles. As if this wasn’t enough, the spa also has a range of products to suit every skin type. As well as its own range, Nickel Spa sells different skincare brand names, including Nicole Farhi, Australian Bodycare which contains tea tree oil, and sun care brand Blockhead. Open Monday 12pm - 6pm, Tuesday & Wednesday 10am - 7pm, Thursday & Friday 10am - 8pm, Saturday 10am 7pm and Sunday 12pm - 5pm.

Nickel Spa 27 Short’s Gardens London, WC2H 9AP 020 7240 4048 www.nickelspalondon.co.uk

Oodles

of

sparkle

INTERVIEW

Diamonds the colour of gin & tonic and sporting trophies made with ancient reindeer leather? Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more to fine jewellers Boodles than helping you choose the perfect engagement ring. Holly Willis talks to Boodles Managing Director, Michael Wainwright to find out more

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Phoenix, Diamond Encrusted Bangle from the Wonderland collection

Waterfall Yellow Citrines Necklace

Boodles is one of the few privatelyowned, and still family-run, British jewellers. That equates to six generations and a history stretching back 210 years – no mean feat in today’s economy. 15 years ago, Boodle & Dunthorne was a respected county jeweller. Today, after huge amounts of investment in design and an ongoing branding project, the reinvented Boodles now has eight stores in London: Bond Street, Sloane Street, Harrods and The Royal Exchange, as well as Liverpool, Manchester, Chester and Dublin.

It appears to be a winning formula for brothers Michael and Nicholas Wainwright, joint owners and Managing Directors, under whose guidance the company is bucking the current economic trend.

Whilst not about to rush into anything, they are even looking into opportunities from North America to the Middle and Far East, and Michael Wainwright’s take on the industry climate is encouraging: “I think that so far the luxury sector has avoided any large decrease in business. This can be partly attributed to a growing interest in the jewellery market

and the investment value of diamonds.”

It does seem that just as nervous investors turn to gold in uncertain markets, good quality diamonds, and fine jewellery generally, are often considered an investment not simply in monetary terms but as an heirloom to be passed on to the next generation.

Raindance and Waterfall, where diamonds appear to congregate on rings and drip from pendants in the most delicious way. Then the torpedo-shaped cufflinks from the Velocity range are a coveted, edgier option, proving that whether the designs are drawn from nature or playful and urban, diamonds are What to look for still an unabashed flavour of the month.

It can be a daunting experience trying to For something truly unique you can sort the diamond wheat from the cubic commission a bespoke one-off piece zirconian chaff. At Boodles they source from Boodles and, if you don’t know and select all their own stones, rejecting your rub-over from your claw, fear a staggering 95% of the diamonds they not, as the experts can give advice on are shown to find the truly exceptional settings and styles to suit the occasion ones, but how is this done? When and budget. They even publish a guide selecting diamonds and other precious for men complete with light-hearted stones, many are familiar with the socartoons on how to buy an engagement called ‘4 C’s’(see box below), but there’s ring entitled: ‘Look Before you Leap.’ more to it than that.

Sporting Prowess Design The commissions don’t stop with Another unusual thing about Boodles jewellery, as Boodles is establishing is the level of creative involvement. a reputation for out-of-the-ordinary Everything is designed in-house trophies commissioned for sporting by an award-winning team, and it events. Recent trophies that have been shows. Boodles pieces have a ‘classic designed and created by Boodles include contemporary’ look that manages to those for The Grand National, the Lawn respect tradition, whilst also embracing Tennis Association and the Cresta Run, emerging trends. Instantly recognisable, using everything from 18 carat gold and it is certainly true that you won’t see glass to polished wood and enamel – or anything on the High Street that looks as one of their leading designers put it: like a Boodles piece, and the current “Trophies are really interesting and collection is not called ‘Wonderland’ challenging projects to be involved in for nothing, having been unashamedly as we always strive to design something created as Michael Wainwright puts it that incorporates our distinctive ‘without consideration for cost’.

Boodles’ twist. We don’t like to use Their blockbuster ranges are called “leather” we like to use ‘restored ancient Reindeer leather Velocity Cufflinks salvaged from a shipwreck’.

Our trophies are more like works of art with hidden secrets and meanings in Cut There’s real skill in cutting a stone to best effect, allowing it to reflect as every detail.” much light as possible. The style depends on personal taste and has become The promise of more complex over the years as cutting techniques have improved, allowing brandishing a Boodles’ for more facets. As a general guide, look for symmetrical, polished stones trophy at the end of a with plenty of sparkle, and if you’re looking for the perfect seduction tool, it’s tournament seems like hard to go wrong with Princess, Asscher or the classic Brilliant-cut. a sure-fired way to bring Clarity There should be no perceptible dark marks, specks or flecks on or out a competitive streak in inside the stone. These will prevent it from really sparkling. most of us.

what to look for

Colour The whiter the better as far as diamonds are concerned and a good way to gauge this is to hold the diamond next to a chilled gin & tonic – it should be equally white. When choosing coloured stones look for the brightest, most vivid shades that are not too dark or too weak.

Carat Size really isn’t everything apparently. Carat refers to the weight of a stone not, as commonly thought, the size.

For more information: www.boodles.com

Raindance Ring, large

59

A HOME WHERE THE CUSHIONS WEAR THE TROUSERS IN T E RIOR S Sarah Collinson discovers that with Ralph Lauren there’s more than one way to take the catwalk collections home

60

With the increasing number of both cooking and interiors programmes appearing on television, socialising at home is becoming more fashionable. But homes need to be elegant refuges that invite admiration and exude sophistication in a manner similar to our daily fashions.

The world of interior design reflects the world around us. As our world becomes more uncertain, we want to step away for the starkness of minimalism, and step into the real world and embrace warm comforting decadence. There are numerous simple re-vamp methods like updated lighting schemes that subtly highlight homes, as well as choice accessories that add easy glamour. But to achieve elegant opulence supreme, where better to look for inspiration than the catwalks?

Numerous designers have now introduced Home ranges into their collections, transferring their expertise with textiles from clothes to interiors.

Trailblazing the way for this designer trend is Ralph Lauren who made history in 1983 as the first fashion designer to create an entire Home collection. The famous Ralph Lauren designs that are characterised by classic tailoring and impeccable taste were replicated in interiors, producing home fabric and furniture designs that look like they belong on a fashion runway. The famous moneyed style that evokes the look of the English aristocracy and sporty East Coast American elite is reflected in their timeless pieces, with many of the textile prints lifted straight from catwalk designs.

As with any designer label, Ralph Lauren Home releases seasonal collections. Each season provides new variations and themes to suit every room, whilst remaining true to the timeless nature of the range. Autumn 2008 has produced three very different styles. Bedford Manor is inspired by high-end English country life and the style of a British country manor, mixed with a hunting style reminiscent of a Scottish lodge.

The collection contrasts feminine romance with masculine hunting motif, drawing heavily upon tweeds and gun check. As far from minimalism as you can get, the fabrics are sumptuous – with predominantly damask and paisley patterns – and the furniture has an heirloom quality with aged wood and rustic iron.

The key piece of the collection has to be the Louis XV-style bed with burnished gold canopy.

Even without the canopy (which realistically may be too ostentatious for even the most extravagant British home), the piece is extraordinary and comes with an upholstered headboard, footboard and rails.

The most interesting thing about this collection is the melding of feminine and masculine tones – romantic fabrics contrasting with dark leather and wood, and a hunting theme juxtaposing the delicate silverware and floral patterns. The result is slightly edgier than an actual country estate and more fitting for a city environment.

Hudson Valley kitchen

The second collection – Rue Royale – fully embraces the idea of opulent minimalism. The theme is taken directly from the style capital of France with full-blown glamour tempered into elegance with classic lines and a sophisticated colour palette of rich navy and gold. The collection is inspired by the womenswear Pret à Porter catwalk collection from Fall 2007. The tone is sultry without being brash and the furniture encompasses a mixture of neoclassical, Biedermeier and art-deco designs. With this collection it would be extremely easy to incorporate a single piece without having to re-create the whole look. The accessories and textiles in particular would be a simple yet effective way to update an interior and inject a home with some elegant glamour.

The final collection conjures the clearest traditional outdoor themes. Hudson Valley

embodies an eclectic mix of rustic sophistication with large leather sofas, beautiful wicker chairs and a fabric theme of gingham and buffalo check. The tone is that of a chic but relaxed retreat combined with an appreciation of artisanal objects, Americana and English antiques. Every detail encompasses the ideal of relaxed entertaining; from the intricate table accessories of herringbone plates and check napkins, to the saddle leather bar box complete with braided bar tools and fox and hound bottle stoppers. This must be the epitome of stylish family living.

Ralph Lauren Homes’ ranges are available in the Ralph Lauren flagship stores on Bond Street and the Fulham Road (020 7535 4600). Alternatively, the bed linen and bath products are available at Harrods and Selfridges. There is also an extensive website at www.ralphlaurenhome.com

Rue Royale bed

Hudson River Valley sofa

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EGO TRIP EGO TRIP

THE NEW BLACKBERRY FLIPS OUT

 

gadgets There was a time when checking your email on your phone was only a habit of stressed City boys, but over the last few years the Internet phone has been gaining ground in the mobile market. With the release of Apple’s new 3G enabled iPhone it seems only natural that BlackBerry would come up with a handset aimed at the more casual user: the Pearl 8220.

Stylistically, the phone is separated from BlackBerry’s other products by its clamshell form and departure from BlackBerry’s standard QWERTY keyboard layout.

The device has all the features you could want from a modern handset, such as Internet access, a camera with video recording capabilities and MP3 playback.

Although the keyboard isn’t what dyed-in-the-wool BlackBerry users will be used to, the handset does feature the company’s SureType technology to ensure maximum typing accuracy on the phone’s small keypad. The software actually learns to recognise the way that you type so that the more you use it, the more accurately it will predict what you’re trying to type.

And, if all else fails, there’s a handy dictionary built into the phone which will also go some way to impressing your boss with some fancy words.

BlackBerry phones have always had a place in the office environment and even though the handset’s form has become more casual, the tools it comes with are nothing short of what you would expect from a modern smart phone. Users can use the inbuilt software to edit Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint files and then email them to their colleagues using the BlackBerry’s email interface which has been designed to integrate tightly with corporate email systems.

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Not content to be just a business beast, the Pearl 8220 packs an array of features that prove it has both style and substance. Boasting two high-resolution, lightsensing colour displays the external LCD screen allows users to preview incoming emails, text messages and phone calls without needing to open the handset while the large, bright internal screen makes pleasant viewing for images, videos and Web pages.

The phone’s music software is also praiseworthy for featuring eleven preset equalization settings on the fly playlist creation (ranging from Hip-Hop to Jazz), whilst incorporating support for the popular iTunes music file type.

USB 2.0 support also means that music can be synched quickly between your computer and the 8220, and that large media files can be transferred, such as pictures which can also be edited with the bundled Roxio Photosuite 9 LE software.

All the other standard fixtures and fittings that you’ve come to expect from a BlackBerry are present – Bluetooth 2.0 support, voice activated dialing, ambient noise reduction and Wi-Fi support – and these combine with a battery providing four hours of talk time and fourteen days of standby time, all creating a serious contender in the market for fully-featured smart phones.

BlackBerry Pearl 8220, cost varies www.blackberry.com

TECHNOLOG Y Tom Hubbard-Green gets up-to-date with the latest technological treats

FLIGHT OF FANCY

EGO TRIP

After a few hours of straining to hear in-flight movies, those cheap headphones found on planes can start to grate in more ways than one. Soft oval silicon ‘ear gel’ tips on Klipsch’s new Custom Series headphones fit snugly in your ear and have the added benefit of banishing ambient noise – crucial on a plane.

What’s more, the vinyl carrying case will also fit an 80G iPod and includes an airline adaptor, five sets of ear gels and a cleaning tool.

Some things are destined for each other, Champagne and caviar, strawberries and cream and now Bentley have said 'I do' to Ego Lifestyle in an exclusive partnership to bring us the limited edition luxury notebook, ‘Ego for Bentley’.

Klipsch Custom-3, £150 www.klipsch.com

SEE THE LIGHT Truly a one of a kind, Philips’ Aurea takes a simple flatscreen TV and transforms it into a lightshow extraordinaire. Its illuminated Ambilight frame emits coloured light sympathetic to the dominant colours showing on the screen itself, which not only creates a dramatic effect but also reduces eyestrain – especially if you watch movies in a blackout. The 42-inch LCD screen itself can show Full HD pictures from a Blu-ray player pixel for pixel.

This sexy, ergonomic little number comes from the genius that is Ego's founder, Huub van de Boogaard, who has taken the humble little notebook and souped it up to Bentley's exacting standards. Each bespoke hand-made specimen has been designed in collaboration with Bentley's styling team in Crewe. The colour options of the lacquered inside match the car’s most popular exterior paint colours for ultimate suitability. The external panels have been trimmed with the finest selection of Bentley leather and finished with the authentic Bentley cross-over hand-stitching.

As beautiful on the inside as it is on the out, it comes with the latest Microsoft Vista Ultimate software, a 64-bit processor and a 160Gb Hard drive. There are 12 dedicated direct access keys to make Wi-fi, Bluetooth, Webcam, Media centre and other applications both simple and fast. As well as eradicating the need for a bag or case, this Ego is truly portable. There are even white gold frames engraved with your own limited edition number.

‘Ego for Bentley’ is not ready for public consumption just yet and will hit stores globally in mid-November, available in London at Selfridges and Harrods. Only 250 pieces will be in circulation retailing at a jaw-dropping but not wholly unreasonable price of £10,000 / €12,500 / USD19,800.

‘Ego for Bentley’ www.bentleymedia.com www.bentleycollection.com www.egoforbentley.com

Philips Aurea 42PFL9632D, £3,000 www.philips.co.uk

LAZYBOY LUGGAGE It’s destined to be the business traveller’s must-have suitcase for 2009. Made in Britain by a small company in Henley-onThames, Live Luggage’s PA Power Assisted Series suitcase is the first motorised model to go on sale. Light and robust enough to survive in the care of baggage handlers, the PA is able to whisk you around the airport for up to 1.5 miles between charges – which should be tested to the limit if you’re stuck at Heathrow!

Live Luggage Power Assisted suitcase, £700 www.liveluggage.com

63

It’s Hummer time!

GADGETS

Having a bad day on the course?

Do you keep finding the rough?

Don’t despair – a buggy to keep you cheerful through any number of bunkers has arrived...

Having a great swing means little unless you arrive at the tee in style, and what better way than rolling to a stop in a gleaming Mini Hummer H3? Offering a top speed of 30 mph and up to a 60 mile range from a single charge, this baby Hummer outperforms all other golf buggies in most categories. The controlling software can be altered easily, allowing the Mini H3’s speed and acceleration to be matched to different environments, which is particularly useful given it can be made road-legal.

While slightly larger than a standard golf buggy (and why shouldn’t your fairway conveyance be imposing?), the Mini H3 weighs the same or less than a standard golf cart. Given the Hummer’s superior weight displacement due to the bigger wheel base, it is actually more turffriendly than a standard buggy.

Mini Hummer H3s have already been spotted trailblazing around a number of courses, piloted by the likes of Ian Poulter and Colin Montgomerie. So if you want to make a statement on the green, the Hummer will give you the go-ahead.

Price on application www.minihummeruk.com

Mini Hummer H3

GOLF

gadgets

 

F1 Lithium Stewart Golf has pushed the boundaries of golfing innovation further than ever before with the F1 Lithium Trolley. A complete reinvention of the hugely popular X3R, the F1 Lithium has banished all the flaws of its predecessor. While the X3R battery weighed 12kg, the whole F1 model only weighs 11kg and the chassis when folded can fit into the front bin of the smallest Porsche 911. It’s also available in seven colours: red, black, pink, cream, sliver, light blue and dark blue. A real dream machine.

Nokia N93 Golf phone Improving your golf swing can be difficult, but help is at hand with the Nokia N93 Golf Phone. It can record and analyse your swing, so you can see where you’re going wrong. The Pro Session Golf application by Nokia has a ready-to-use and tailored viewfinder, which instantly captures your swing from the correct distances and angles. Also with a 3.2 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss Optics the quality of the recording should never be a worry. You can send your swing, share ideas and tips with your golf teacher or you can smugly send your best swing to all your friends and associates via multimedia messaging. £466 www.nokia.com

Sky Caddie

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Back in the day, golfers used to rely on the expertise and knowledge of caddies to navigate their way through the hazards of a golf course – leaving the player to focus on their game. Now generally it’s only professionals who are so privileged. But that has all changed; you can now have an experienced and knowledgeable caddie in your back pocket. The Sky Caddie SG2.5 can measure the full depth and shape of a green from any angle of approach, as well as give you distances to bunkers and other hazards. For the more hard core golfer the SG5 is the gadget of choice. With advanced GPS technology and colour display this gadget will help you improve your game.

SG2.5 £169.00 SG5 £299 www.skygolf.com

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18TH JUNE, 1963. A packed Wembley Stadium. Henry Cooper’s left hook lays the then Cassius Clay, flat out; the one and only time “The Greatest”, Muhammad Ali hits the canvas.

“A police escort took us to the arena where 40,000 people were waiting. The atmosphere was electric. All I could here was “‘enry, ‘enry, ‘enry!” which got the old adrenalin going, I can tell you. In the ring, my game plan was to cut down Clay’s mobility because, as we all know, Ali was the fastest moving heavyweight of all time. He had fast feet, fast hands and a long reach; a hell of a combination to have as a fighter. The only way to break him down was by stepping across him in the corners and getting him on the ropes…”

OUR ‘ENRY...

RIGHTLY PROUD AS PUNCH INTERVIEW Unquestionably one of the best boxers Britain has ever produced; the only man to win 3 Lonsdale Belts outright, the only fighter to knock down the mighty Muhammad Ali. 45 years on from that infamous encounter and Sir Henry Cooper reflects on the punch of his career

ENRY’S ‘AMMER “My big punch is my left hook and when I hit him I knew he was in trouble. I got that solid feeling all up my arm so I knew it was a good punch. I could see he was hurting, just by his eyes. It’s all about the eyes in boxing. People ask me “Where do you look when you’re fighting? At their feet, at their hands?” No, it’s their eyes. They register everything; pain, joy, and when I used to hit people with my left hook, their eyes used to roll up into the back of their heads. Ali went down like a sack of spuds and I knew I’d hurt him…”

SAVED BY THE BELL “The real tragedy was that I hit him on the ropes so when he fell he went from the top to the middle to the bottom which let him down gently. Had I hit him off the ropes then he would have gone down and hit his head on the canvas and there would have been no coming back for him… He was saved by the bell sadly, in the dying minutes of the fourth round…”

THE CONSPIRACY “Now his manager, Angelo Dundee, was a shrewd guy. He’s since admitted to me that there was foul play. By the time he got Ali back to the corner after I hit him down, he only had 50 seconds left to revive him and there was no way he could do it. So he had to think fast to make up time and save Ali the fight. He noticed that the stitching on Clay’s right-hand glove had torn a little so he ripped it further and then told the Ref that he needed to get a new glove from the dressing room. They reckon that gave Ali more than

Cooper with his 3 Lonsdale belts

a two minute interval, which in fighting is all you need to recover. I would have had him otherwise. At the time I thought that it was skulduggery but over the years I’ve accepted that it’s just one of those things.

I’ve always said that professional boxing is a business, and in business people always try to get one over their competitors...”

18th June 2008. The phone rings.

The American drawl on the end of the line recounts that night more than four decades earlier.

“Ali calls me every year on the anniversary of the fight. We’re quite good friends now. When you were fighting you didn’t want to know your opponent, you had to have that bit of nastiness about you, but now, when he calls it’s all different. We ask about each other’s health and family. There’s a lot of mutual respect. He paid me a great compliment when he once said “Cooper was a great fighter. His lefthook was the best punch I have ever been hit by. He didn’t just shake me he shook my relations in Africa!” I was always confident against him even though I wasn’t quite as fast. He was quite exceptional, but in my two fights against him I held my own. In the first, I was ahead and in the second I was just beginning to catch him when he chopped down on my eye and split it...”

The Boy Boxer “Boxing was in the Cooper family. My dad boxed while he was in the army during World War 1 and my grandfather was an old Irish bare knuckle fighter.

He used to fight 20 round fights at night, in stables, so the police never caught them. So basically it was in my blood. My first knockout was at home with my identical twin brother, George. We were mucking around in our old council flat kitchen on a Sunday while Mum was cooking lunch. I fell backwards, hit my head on the gas oven and knocked myself out. When I came to, Mum was giving George a right old wallop! At school, the two of us used to get into right trouble as well. George and I were always up before the Head for fighting because we stuck out like a couple of sore thumbs!”

The Fighter “When I was in the army, I used to box.

Then I was already British Amateur Champion and had been to the Olympics in 1952. I boxed for 10 years as an amateur and then professionally for 17 years. I had a long career for a fighter and for the last ten years of it I held on to the British Champion title. I had 55 professional fights and I beat all the golden boys in British boxing. I was the

Knocking down the mighty Ali in 1963

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Broken but not beaten

Presenting the 2008 European Open champion, Ross Fisher, with the trophy at The London Golf Club

only British fighter to win 3 Lonsdale Belts outright. I had to fight 9 British title fights to win them and I’m the only British fighter ever to have done so...”

Boxing today…

“It’s a totally different game today. There aren’t a lot of fighters around. Really you’ve only got about 5 decent fighters in the world.

Over here we’ve got Calzaghe. He’s good for this era but you couldn’t put him against fighters from times gone by. Calzaghe has won 44 fights so far. If you go back to my era in the 50s and 60s, Sugar Ray Robinson won 160 odd fights. In those days, with 15 rounds, Calzaghe wouldn’t have even gone 10...”

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The Alternative “If I hadn’t fought then I would have hoped to have made it as a footballer. I used to play goalkeeper and I represented London, but as I got better at boxing I left the football out…too dangerous!!”

The Golfer “I love golf. I started playing when I retired from boxing back in the early 1970s. I hadn’t played properly before but as a kid we used to go down to Margate and play pitch and putt. Since playing properly, I‘ve had 6 holes in one – and they’ve all been good shots too! Handicap wise, I did get down to 7 once but I’m nearly 14 now. Playing here at The London Golf Club is a great privilege for me.

I was one of the first members. I have never really burnt it up around here, but I have had some good scores. Everyone says The Heritage is the course to play, but personally, I prefer The International…”

Knock ‘em out: 55 fights 45 wins 28 knockouts Knocked out twice himself 3 Lonsdale Belts 3 Empire Championship titles (Commonwealth) 2 European Heavyweight Champion titles 2 BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards 17 years of professional boxing 1 Knighthood & 1 OBE 6 holes in one

Fondest memories “To be honest catching the imagination of the British public was the greatest thing I’ve ever done. Everywhere we went people always came out to support me box, which was bloomin’ marvellous. Then, for a working class lad, to get a Knighthood and an OBE was something else. I was the first, and still am, the only Knight of the Realm in boxing. I was just sad that my parents and my old manager, Jim Wicks, weren’t alive to see that day…”

LONDON GOLF_FILMER HOUSE.qxd

28/10/08

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Practising for the 2008 European Open at The London Golf Club

Accounting for the luck of the Irishâ&#x20AC;Ś

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Photography by Terry Obourne

GOLF From accountant to a threetime Major winner, The London Golf Club’s Alasdair Robertson analyses what makes Padraig Harrington the man to go the distance…

Those who know me well know that I have one true idol: Rocky Balboa. Not the golfing icon that you might expect, but certainly a figure whose commitment and drive made him a winner.

Fictional character he may be, but in my view there are some very real comparisons to be made between the boxer and Padraig Harrington, particularly with their respective journeys to the top of their game.

Round 1:

When Harrington started out in golf, he was no natural. He lacked power behind the ball, his set-up was far from ideal and his mental approach was steeped in worry and disbelief. That’s not to say that Harrington wasn’t a successful amateur.

Far from it. He played in three Walker Cup teams, one of which was victorious in 1995, and he has a host of Irish titles and records to his name. But even the player himself admits that he was fairly average in the first part of his professional career, racking up a string of runner-up places.

In fact, he had four 2nd place finishes in five events during 1999.

Round 2:

Step into the ring Bob Torrance. Like Rocky’s coach, Mickey, this partnership marked the birth of a champion. The Scot, a professional himself and father to Ryder Cup stalwart Sam Torrance, took on the challenge of turning the willowy Irishman’s game around. The relationship was a tumultuous one on the practice ground by

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all accounts, with both teacher and pupil becoming despondent at times. Neither, however, would ever throw in the towel.

Apart from totally reworking his swing from top to bottom, perhaps the most significant development to Harrington’s game was mental. With Torrance’s assistance, he left his worrying, fidgety and general disbelieving demeanour behind and went on to be the victor we see week in week out on our screens; the golfer who more often than not is in contention and more often than not lifts the trophy.

Harrington at The London Golf Club

Round 3:

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In 2000, Harrington eventually discovered the winning streak he and Torrance had been striving tirelessly for. Since then, he has won at least one Tour event every year, finished in the top ten on the European Tour Order of Merit no less than seven times and was voted European Tour Golfer of the Year in 2007.

Round 4:

It’s really been since then that Harrington’s form has shown something of the remarkable. Successfully defending his Open crown at Birkdale in 2008, he became the first European golfer to retain the Claret Jug in more than a century. Then, three weeks later, he won the PGA Championships, which saw him land three Majors in thirteen months. That latter victory I’d say was particularly impressive as he was 5+ after two rounds but went on to shoot -8 for the weekend to once again beat a rather shell-shocked Sergio Garcia. If ever you needed proof of his sheer grit and determination this was it. An inner mental strength that I would say few players can profess to have.

Round 5:

Shy, seemingly rather awkward at times, but always smiling and always positive, Harrington is a hugely likeable character on Tour who, after waiting quietly in the wings for years, is now deemed to be one of the few golfers capable of taking on Tiger Woods. Certainly Woods has openly expressed his respect for the European No. 1 whose 68.83 score average over 6 rounds beats the American’s by a stroke. Once Woods is back in the game, I’d say these two will go head to head for a few rounds.

Knockout:

Now ranked 3rd in the world behind Woods and Mickelson, with three Majors and five Ryder Cup teams under his belt, Padraig Harrington is undeniably one of the greatest players of the modern game. His statistics speak for themselves and surely stack up for the qualified accountant. Swapping from auditing to playing may have meant a late start for the Irishman, but he’s certainly made up for lost time. His head for numbers is still apparent though with the amount of titles he can account for. Really now it’s just a question of how far he can go….

Heavenly hospitality Golfing aficionados the world over will be glued to their screens and out in force on the fairways to see whether Padraig Harrington can make it three in a row at The 2009 Open at Turnberry. It will be history in the making if the Irishman completes a consecutive hat-trick and you could be there to see it happen. The official Open Championship hospitality provides a number of VIP hospitality packages that will appeal to all golf enthusiasts.

If you’re short of time the Open Sportsman package is ideal, you can fit your whole golfing experience to a day. You can arrive whenever your travel arrangements allow and get on the links straightaway, armed with vouchers which can be redeemed in the public catering outlets, so that you don’t have to miss a minute of the play with your guests. After you’ve spent the day on the links with your guests, head down the official Open Championship Hospitality Village for afternoon tea, drinks and a three course dinner.

If time is not of the essence, the Open Guest package is perfect. You can enjoy the full range of hospitality including a bacon roll with some essential tea and coffee for breakfast, a three course lunch and afternoon tea. If you want something a little more private, somewhere to entertain your clients in style – why not hire a private chalet. You can upgrade wines to champagne and customise and brand the

chalet with your company logo.

For the more discerning golf fan there are two other options, the first is the Open Clubhouse. This package mixes comfort and style with informality. Clubhouse guests will have access to a unique shared space in the hospitality village where you can eat and relax.

The à la carte Clubhouse menu offers a range of food, which changes throughout the day to reflect your needs. This is perfect for the enthusiast who wants to follow their favourite player, but wants to refuel with some tapas or a glass of champagne before they head off.

The second option is the Open Seafood and Champagne package. Available in a shared restaurant, the deal includes breakfast canapés, bucks fizz, coffee and tea; a three course seafood lunch including champagne, fine wines and afternoon tea. The fine food compliments the coastal location of the championship, and will let you enjoy the tournament in a chic and stylish way.

If you want to rub shoulders with the players and officials, why not reserve your place for the Open Hotel experience, a non-residential package in the official championship hotel – The Turnberry.

Meals will be taken in the five star hotel’s luxury restaurant which overlooks the course. The experience can also be tailored to meet your specific needs. There could not be a better way to enjoy one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments.

As a special offer in conjunction with The London Golf Club Magazine – the official hospitality company for The 2009 Open, Sodexo, is offering two readers the chance to win an exclusive VIP Hospitality package. This bespoke offering includes: • • • • • •

Official Open Championship admission ticket Souvenir programme and order of play Vouchers for the public catering outlets Access to the Open Golf Hospitality Village Afternoon tea Three course dinner

To enter, all you have to do is answer the following question:

At which world renowned Scottish venue is the 2010 Open Championship being held?

Entries can be emailed to open@runwildmedia.com or sent to RunWild Media, 16 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf London, E14 4JB. Closing date is April 1st 2009. Terms and Conditions apply.

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GET STACKED AT THE LONDON GOLF CLUB! GOLF TIPS Break with tradition and revamp your swing with a good “Stack and Tilt” From Hogan to Nicklaus, Natural Golf to Stack and Tilt, we are constantly bombarded with new ways of getting the ball around the golf course in fewer shots. Stack and Tilt, however, presents a lot of common sense in its description and application.

In basic terms, the current conventional thinking in the backswing and at address is that the weight moves from the front foot to the back during the takeaway and backswing. This sometimes leads many

1

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THE ADDRESS Position the weight 60- 40 onto the front foot. Grip should be neutral, and the centre of the swing should be mid-way between the shoulders and the hips. The spine angle at this stage of the swing should be vertical. Ball position is just forward of centre as we are hitting a 5 iron in this particular shot.

2

golfers to unnecessary lateral movements, or ‘swaying’ as it is commonly referred to, and in turn this causes infrequent ball striking.

‘S and T’ removes this sideways movement in the backswing by positioning the weight onto the left side at address. Through stacking the weight onto the left side and tilting the spine in the same direction, we are able to keep the weight positioned consistently over the ball at all times.

THE TAKEAWAY/ HALFWAY BACK You will notice at this stage that the hands move inward away from the body. For most this will feel like you are swinging inside the stance line, this is correct.

As the club moves back and around the body the arms will remain tight into the body and the spine will now tilt towards the left.

To many this will have the sensation of moving ahead of the ball, but you will now be directly on top of it. This tilting action causes the hips and shoulders to turn on a steep downward angle, with the right leg straightening and the left knee flexing forward.

HALFWAY IN THE DOWNSWING The engine that normally starts the downswing is the generation of hip movement. In ‘S and T’ the whole of the body moves together at the start of the downswing.

All movement is now being generated towards the front side, and we uncoil the hips and core muscles together toward impact. The body is centred throughout the backswing , so there is no necessity to shift weight back onto the front foot.

The movement now is to thrust onto the front foot and move the hips upwardly through impact.

3 FINISHED BACKSWING/AT THE TOP At the apex of the backswing the weight onto the front foot has increased from address. The spine is now vertical at the top of the swing. With the subtraction of any lateral movement in the backswing, we have now managed to produce an increased amount of torque in the upper body, and the head has not moved from the centre of the player’s vision.

5

THE POINT OF IMPACT Because the weight in the swing stays centred and towards the front foot, it is vital that the hips move upwards and to the left in order to shallow the swing out, otherwise the club will be delivered to the ball on too steep an angle. The upper arms at this stage remain close to the torso, and the hands and arms are delivered through the ball by the movement of the core muscles, and as such remain fairly passive. The club path is from inside to square to inside. More power is created this way.

4 6 87

THE FINISHED FOLLOW-THROUGH You will now notice that the torso is shaped in a reverse c-shape with the hips thrust towards the target. The spine angle is now pointing away from the target for the first time in the swing, and the arms are extended and must not drop over the left shoulder, rather similar to that of a punched shot.

LIFESTYLE ABIGAIL NANCE gets scientific with the Greenkeepers....

KEEPING Photography by Terry Obourne

MY ENTIRE LIFE I have innocently thought that thatch was purely something used to make roofs on quaint country cottages. An hour with The London Golf Club Greenkeepers, and I soon realised that I was humiliatingly mistaken. In fact, I’m embarrassed to admit that as a golfer, my preconceived notion of the role of Greenkeeper wasn’t far from being just as ludicrous. Fortunately I know I wasn’t alone in my assumption that it was just about cutting greens, raking bunkers and mowing fairways. Now though, I know there’s a real science behind it.

So, back to thatch: apparently the determining factor in the playability of any course and public enemy number one for Greenkeepers. Core down under the grass and that’s where you’ll find these dead and living roots; an organic layer which defines how hard or soft our fairways are. According to Heritage Head Greenkeeper, Glenn Kirby “you can tell how ‘thatchy’ a fairway is just by standing on it.”

I’d like to think I’m too svelte for that, but what did make me stand up and listen was the fact that little bugs are actually behind what makes our golf more enjoyable.

Microbes, to be precise, which feed on the thatch and make it decompose quicker. In short, those unsightly holes that we see on the course after maintenance week aerate the grass so more bugs can thrive and make our playing surfaces firmer.

Too technical? It was a little for me.

Moments into the bleary-eyed 6am briefing and I realised that the team around me was speaking quite literally a different language; top-dressing, verti-cutting and hollow-tining.

Minutes later and I was putting these terms into practice.

No one would ever dispute that Greenkeeping is labour-intensive, but maintenance week pushes even the best of them. After the initial tee, green and fairway coring is done, it’s all hands on deck to cover the holes with grass seed followed by sand – that’ll be the top dressing then.

IT GREEN

An interesting change gripping a broom on the green rather than a putter – although some might say I’d probably do better with a brush in my bag! I certainly used to always blame a sandy green for my poor performance. Now I know why I should appreciate it. The boys tirelessly broom sand into every last tine hole to ensure the greens repair as quickly as possible. The sand basically beds the seed into the soil so it takes root and eventually gives us a new and impeccable surface.

One thing which really blew my mind was the actual price of the sand. At £25 per tonne, filling one bunker alone can cost around £10,000. Perhaps it’s understandable then why the decision was made to reduce some of the courses’ more cavernous traps! And this was just one area where the team’s resourcefulness impressed me. To fill the bunkers, they used the left-over cores dug up during maintenance week. In total, the crew shifted between 50 and 60 tonnes of thatch from The Heritage Course in two days – a lot of which was done by gruelling hand shovelling.

Sadly I missed that task...but as tough as it was, the team would all agree that it was The 2008 European Open that truly put them through their paces. Overtime wasn’t enough time to achieve what the Greenkeepers managed. 25 extra volunteers swelled ranks to more than 50. Both The European Tour and the players praised the condition of the course; recognition of the overwhelming dedication and sheer slog put in by the boys.

The tournament has certainly raised new challenges for them. One criticism from The European Tour was that the rough wasn’t penal enough. I’d beg to differ but, for the pros to be really tested, the Greenkeepers are now thickening out the rough even more by ‘slit-seeding’ (basically in layman’s terms, using a machine to make small incisions in the ground for adding more seed). This is just one of the course changes which we mere golfers may notice as we thrash around

in the impenetrable long stuff. Other aesthetic alterations are documented on The London Golf Club website.

For the team though, the tournament is just one job on an extensive “to do” list.

For them, the commitment is all year, all weather. Only lightening will stop the boys from carrying out daily duties, whether that’s cutting new fairway lines, improving the courses’ irrigation system or cutting and rolling the greens to their pristine condition.

There is certainly an art to the latter as I found out. My erratic style of whizzing sideways across the 12th Heritage on a roller quickly prohibited me from continuing onto the hazardous 13th...

But sitting on my fairway mower, verticutting the 8th hole, I did feel strangely liberated; released from the constraints of my deskbound existence. It was the height of summer though. Change the scene to a frosty winter’s morning and I’m the first to admit that the grass is always greener....

•

130 tonnes of sand used in Heritage renovation week

•

6 tonnes of grass seed used in Heritage renovation week

•

£1 million worth of greenkeeping equipment

•

£900,000 spent on relining lakes (to date)

•

£1.5 million to renew total irrigation system

•

11 miles of cart path so 22 miles of edging

•

1,000 cubic metres of water per night

•

25 full-time greenkeepers

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ENTER THE

ARENA LIFESTYLE In search of non-stop entertainment, JOSEPHINE O’DONOGHUE looks forward to the upcoming events at the O2 Arena

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THE WORKING WEEK in the City can certainly take its toll so we have the perfect antidote to tackling those long hectic days. The prospect of breaking routine with a lively evening concert, weekend performance or high profile event could be just what London needs! And nowhere else springs to mind with as much gusto as the recently revamped O2 Arena. Right on the Canary Wharf doorstep, City workers are flocking in their thousands to the treasure trove of dazzling events on offer in the coming months. In October 2008 alone, the O2 (now the world’s most popular music venue) saw its ten millionth visitor through the doors. Attracting local Londoners and foreign tourists alike, the arena has reclaimed its status as one of the City’s most popular attractions and has a star-studded list of clientele to prove it.

“The O2 aims to be one of the world’s most dynamic venues, bringing in the very best music, sport and entertainment,” says David Campbell, Chief Executive of AEG Europe, the owners and operators of the O2. “Ten million visitors through our doors is testament to both the top class content within the building and the fact that AEG have created a destination enjoyed by all who visit it.”

Indeed, since opening, the O2 has enjoyed playing host to the very best music artists, sportsmen and entertainment professionals in the world, quickly establishing itself as a premier venue for not only the audiences but also for the celebrities and stars they host.

Perhaps most impressive is the sheer variety of events handled by the O2 each month. From music god Stevie Wonder to hilarious stand-up comedian Lee Evans, from a professional NBA game to Disney on Ice, the arena caters to every age and interest. Where else in London could you find Gunter von Hagen’s dramatic Body Worlds exhibition one day and childrens’ favourite animated characters the next? The versatility of the O2 indicates that it will become a permanent fixture in the City’s cultural scene by cramming in every genre of musical, theatre, dance, film, comedy and art performance. Even exhibitions, dining, clubbing and private parties are catered for. As well as a selection of Olympic sporting events in 2012, AEG Europe has swiftly illustrated the unique capabilities of the cleverly converted Millennium Dome. 2009 will see the O2 stage its first classical show, Carmina Burana, two major sporting events (the World Gymnastic Championships and the Tennis World Tour Finals) and the launch of the British Music Experience, a permanent cutting-edge music exhibition. “Since we opened in June 2007, the O2 has wowed the crowds with enviable content and a great all-round experience,” says David Campbell. He adds, “the latest Pollstar arena figures show The O2 arena has Quarter 1 ticket sales of almost half a million (471,489).

These figures prove what a great time people are having at the venue and we’ll keep putting the world-class content in so our customers will return over and over again”.

Photography by Colin Philip

Must-see events at

FACTS: THE O2 London Golf Club Members have privileged access to VIP seats at the O2. On a first-come first-served basis, members can acquire the best seats in the house while only paying face value for shows and sporting events. To get the star treatment, including use of the Club Lounge & VIP bars / restaurants, call 020 8463 2561 and quote your membership number.

You usually have to go on a bit of a trek in search of good old fashioned skiing, and some of the most unusual indoor destinations dedicated to the white stuff are springing up in the most unlikely places! As far as London is concerned, the search is over as the O2 Arena plays host to the city’s first ever indoor artificial twin ski slope. After the success of The Beach and The Ice Disco, the O2 invites you to hit ‘The Slopes’. Visitors to the attraction will be able to ski, snowboard or snow tube, making it the London winter hang-out.

Measuring 45m in length, the twin slopes will bring the entire skiing experience closer to the people of London; not only will visitors be able to learn to ski or snowboard, but ‘The Slopes’ will be open to advanced skiers to warm up their ski legs before heading to the mountains.

The Warren Smith Ski Academy, the leading British snow sport coaching school, will offer top level coaching for all levels at ‘The Slopes’ and ski and snowboard manufacturers K2 and Ride will be supplying top of the range skis and snowboards. For those looking for an extra

edge of adventure, you can also try out the snow tubes - these inflatable sledges are perfect for everyone whether you like spinning, sliding or just sledging. So, with the whole of the London Piazza beautifully decorated to resemble a picturesque winter resort, ‘The Slopes’ (along with real snow covered trees and chalet) will help create the perfect day out this winter.

Tickets are available starting at £15 per adult per hour (ski / board rental £5) and snow tubes £8 per half hour (subject to booking fee).

Later in 2009 AC/DC are set to welcome the spring season with the highly anticipated Black Ice World Tour. Set to explode into the UK in April, the band is back for a series of arena shows kicking off at the O2. The worldwide tour (the band’s first since 2001) promotes AC/DC’s latest studio album, Black Ice. Undoubtedly one of the most eagerly awaited albums of 2008, the album and tour have attracted both critical fanfare and rapid anticipation from AC/DC fans around the world. Tickets for this one will sell out fast, so book now!

The O2 Peninsula Square London SE10 0DX Ticket reservations: 0844 856 0202 www.theo2.co.uk

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london’s best…

Stephanie Baxter discovers glamorous golf bars to get a round in

If a whole day of indoor golfing pursuits sounds like just the right tonic to perk you up, Metro Golf is the place to be. From morning coffee in the lounge/ bar to dinner in Zizzi’s restaurant upstairs, the facilities can provide more than enough fun to fill your day. Take a lesson from one of the fully-qualified PGA golf professionals and TPI-certified instructors or practice on a Full Swing simulator, and then finish off with a spot of shopping at the authorised golf club fitting centre and shop. Rounding off the evening watching sports in the bar, the sleek, contemporary design and tranquil atmosphere leave guests feeling calm, peaceful and rested.

Metro Golf 19 Sheldon Square Paddington Central London, W2 6EP 020 7266 7950 www.metrogolf.co.uk

City Golf & Health Club

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Metro Golf

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Recent times have seen the growth of the sports bar, as fewer and fewer sports fans are willing to put up with the crowded and often dingy atmosphere of the local pub. Golfers who eat, live and breathe the game will be pleased to hear that London boasts a range of golf-specific leisure venues, enabling you to perfect your technique whilst relaxing with friends over a pint

The ultimate indoor golfing experience, which was previously only imaginable, can now be found at City Golf & Health Club. Excellently situated between Bank and Moorgate Tube stations, it is perfect for both lunchtime and post-work relaxation. As well as enjoying the delicious bar food and cocktails, guests can get in some extra practice by making use of one of six Full Swing simulators, where they gain access to more than 50 of the world’s most famous courses at the touch of a button. With full membership you can also benefit from golf tuition and biomechanical golf programmes, as well as enjoy entry to the executive gym. Those who want a golf bar that has it all (including live sports, film screenings and free WiFi access) you need look no further.

City Golf & Health Club 40 Coleman Street London, EC2R 5EH 020 7796 5960 www.citygolfclubs.com

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Urban Golf

For those golfing enthusiasts with a competitive streak (healthy or unhealthy), Urban Golf will no doubt take your fancy. Its Monday night ‘Roll-Up’ tournament has proved a huge success, with many participants enjoying the buzz of the final Ryder Cup-style match between Urban Golf’s two branches, Soho and Smithfield, which are the UK’s largest indoor golf venues. For those who like to take a more laidback approach to the game, the funky surroundings of the bar, which serves beautiful, freshly-prepared food, is home to two putting greens where you can perfect your finish.

Urban Golf Smithfield 12 Smithfield Street London, EC1A 9LA 020 7248 8600

citybunker

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Urban Golf Soho 33 Great Pulteney Street London, W1F 9NW 020 7434 4300

One of the top golf bars for all-round entertainment, a trip to citybunker guarantees that you will never be bored.

Available to both members and non-members, guests can make use of the indoor golf area, which features state-ofthe-art simulators, P.G.A qualified tuition and golf lessons for complete beginners right through to advanced golfers.

And for a well-rounded leisure experience, citybunker has regular scheduled entertainment including cocktail nights, comedy shows, live bands and poker tournaments, as well as the latest games consoles, Formula One interactive games and 42” plasma screens. The fun and relaxed atmosphere makes it one of the greatest entertainment venues the city has to offer. citybunker Cannon Workshops Hertsmere Road Canary Wharf London, E14 4 AS 020 7537 7940 www.citybunker.co.uk

Winterdale cheese room

Winter fairs well at The 94

London Golf Club

RECIPE A Sargent’s soufflé to warm the cockles

Having worked under John Burton Race for three years, Michelin–trained Head Chef Michael Sargent quite rightly is choosy about his ingredients.

Following the celebrity chef’s philosophy, Michael only opts for the best products while being a strong supporter of local suppliers.

Here he uses cheese supplied by Winterdale Cheese makers, based literally on the Club’s doorstep in Kent:

TWICE-BAKED WINTERDALE CHEESE SOUFFLÉ WITH ROASTED PEARS AND ROCKET SALAD Serves 8 (8x2 inch ramekins)

INGREDIENTS BÉCHAMEL 20g plain white flour 20g unsalted butter 130ml milk 160g grated Winterdale cheese 2 egg yolks FOR LINING THE RAMEKINS 100g dried white bread without crusts 2 tablespoons unsalted butter creamed at room temperature FOR COMPLETING THE SOUFFLÉS 8 egg whites Pinch of salt GARNISH 4 poached pears 250g rocket salad Herb vinaigrette

METHOD

Preheat the oven 230oC / 450oF / gas mark 8 Liberally butter the bottom and sides of the ramekins and coat with a generous layer of breadcrumbs.

Prepare the soufflé mixture (béchamel) in a small sauce pan, bring the milk to boil then immediately draw off the heat. In another saucepan, slowly melt the butter then stir in the flour and cook for about 5 minutes until blonde. Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps then bring to the boil and simmer for 1 minute. Take off the heat and mix in the egg yolk and grated Winterdale cheese. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl beat the egg whites to a light peak with a pinch of salt. Thoroughly mix 1/5 of the beaten egg white into the base mixture. Delicately fold in the remaining egg white until well blended. Half-fill the ramekins with the soufflé mixture, add a little of the diced poached pear in the middle, then cover with the remaining mixture and smooth the surface with a spatula.

FIRST BAKING OF THE SOUFFLÉ Place the ramekins in a shallow roasting tin. Pour in 1.5cm hot water and bake in the preheated oven for 7-8 minutes. Leave to cool for about 10 minutes, then shake the ramekins sideways to loosen the soufflés and turn them out carefully onto a lightly oiled pastry tray. Leave to cool for at least 10 more minutes.

SECOND BAKING OF THE SOUFFLÉ Return the soufflés to the hot oven for 5 minutes to give them a delicious crust.

ASSEMBLING THE DISH AND SERVING During the second cooking, cut the poached pear into wedges and arrange in a triangle on the plate. Toss the rocket salad in the herb vinaigrette then place in the centre of the pears. Put the hot cheese soufflé in the centre of the salad and serve warm.

95

Long live Vivat Bacchus WINE The godliest of wine restaurants is putting the Classic back into wining and dining, says Alice Tozer “Life is too short to drink bad wine.” That’s the raison-d’être of London’s Vivat Bacchus restaurants. As the name might suggest (Vivat Bacchus translating to ‘long live Bacchus’ – God of Wine), the folk at Vivat have made wine a core feature, by incorporating temperature controlled wine cellars into their clientele’s dining experience. These house a cross-section of the world’s wine; from entry level Pinots to matured Burgundys commanding prices in the hundreds. With its flagship restaurant in Farringdon and another in London Bridge, Vivat should theoretically be referred to as a chain, but somehow this seems an insult to its űber-polished name.

If asked to scribble three South African restaurants which are famous in London on the back of your napkin, I bet you’d find it hard. You may be surprised that Giraffe and Nando’s make two and Vivat Bacchus a third.

The co-founder and hands-on manager Gerrie Knoetze (his sleeping partner, Mark Batchelor, resides back in the pair’s native South Africa) spent his student days in Pretoria. There his entrée into the world of restaurants began when he cut short an MBA course to help his father with his business in the gold mining area of the Free State. Gerrie soon took up his father’s challenge to stop partying so much in his spare time, and put the hours into starting his own venture; ironically, a journey which has led him to specialise in the art of fine (culinary) entertainment.

Some thirty years and four restaurant names later and Gerrie is, as he puts it, part of the furniture at Farringdon’s Vivat Bacchus. Vivat being his first British restaurant, Gerrie’s past ventures in South Africa ooze tradition and locality: four steak houses (two of which lost him money), a live music bar (where the jazz band was sometimes unable to perform when stopped from exiting the townships under the Apartheid regime), and the South African

The London Bridge branch of Vivat Bacchus

off-shoot of Brown’s restaurant. In the late 90s, the South African rand dropped and Gerrie and his business partner, then Batchelor too, felt the need to go out and earn a hard currency. With the advantages of sitting in the same time zone as South Africa, using the same language and having its drivers take to the same side of the road, London beckoned.

Given new restaurants are incessantly over-spilling onto London streets, when a restaurant stands out from the crowd with a curious twist or by harping back to some form of artisanal production, punters will flock in their curious herds to the eating hole in question if, of course, the novel concept does itself justice. Being able to go and choose your wine from an in-house cellar rather than throwing mental darts at long lists of wine descriptions à la carte is an ingenious idea. (Vivat does also have an extensive hand-held menu for those who don’t fancy a mid-course cave tour.)

Not even a concept which was common in South Africa, the cellar idea was born when Gerrie revamped Brown’s and – “a collector by nature and knowing a little about wine” – built a cellar housing 50,000 bottles. In 2003, he introduced the concept to Londoners, in Vivat Bacchus.

The splendidly neat name, incidentally, is taken from the wine label of a friend – a wine producer in South Africa.

Fortunately, it has been an amicable lending with no squabbles over issues of legality; rather the restaurant stocks bottles of the Vivat Bacchus brand.

Whilst there is an understandable South African bias to the cellar selection, the team ensures a wide New World and European line-up; essentially enough variety to suit all palates, dishes and salary sizes. One of the names Vivat stocks is Martin Meinert, who supplied the wine for Nelson Mandela’s 85th birthday bash; Meinert’s Devon Crest 2004 – a Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend – is described on the menu as ‘Mandela’s wine’. The attributes don’t stop here: I

Gerrie Knoetze

have enjoyed a Klein Constantia Vin de Constance 2001 at the restaurant; one of the world’s most famous dessert wines and favoured by Napoleon. But even though such anecdotes add fun to the evening of a non-connoisseur, Vivat is also the authentic master of its trade: South African Veenwoundens and Vergelegens stand tall alongside famous Bordeaux first growths and super Tuscans from Italy.

The restaurant also puts on a weekly wine club as well as corporate wine tastings – representatives of one of the country’s largest IT companies had just left their wine tasting function at the Farringdon branch when I arrived. Engelbrecht Els wines have featured recently at such tastings – a partnership built on golf and red wine; Ernie Els – one of South Africa’s most successful golfers – befriended a commercial pilot by the name of Jean Engelbrecht during his worldwide travels.

Jean happened to be the son and heir of Jannie Engelbrecht, a hugely successful wine farmer at Rust-en-Vrede Winery and also a legendary Springbok rugby winger, and soon they started talking of a partnership. This wine is certainly very apt for a South African restaurant and could be a novel choice for golfing fans.

Wine experts, moreover, say the produce is fantastic.

As a twin accompaniment to the wine cellars, cosily sized, temperaturecontrolled cheese rooms feature at both Vivats. The diner is invited inside these walk-in rooms, in order to choose his own selection among the most delectable of French and English, lactic crumbliness.

The food at Vivat is by no means an afterthought and the beauty of the set-up is the two-tier system common to both restaurants; upstairs for deli platters of cheese and cold meats and downstairs for a menu of modern European cuisine with South African overtones. Does the alcoholic emphasis at the restaurant encourage debauchery in a population famed for our honey-round-a-bee pot

reaction to the sound of snapping beer rings and popping corks? “Generally not at all,” laughs Gerrie, “although they sometimes get tipsy... but with style,” he adds.

Vivat was unsurprisingly voted one of the Top 5 UK restaurants for service

by Harpers & Queen and Moët & Chandon. I’m just surprised that it has taken the dedicated team five years to create a second gold star to their name in the London Bridge branch, which is starting to make its presence known to the discerning PWC and Ernst & Young hungry tummies. I myself have enjoyed there the fine delights of velvettextured scallops, Thai green curry and a quaint, wooden board platter of copious chocolate desserts (for two). I could alternatively have dabbled in crocodile spring rolls, springbok or carpaccio of kudu – a lesser-known, South African antelope meat.

In a brilliant French-style move, the Vivat staff are soon to introduce takeaway wine (I’m surprised to learn the restaurant is licensed to do so) within the luxury version of the cold meat and cheese platter lunchboxes which they are planning to sell and I’m sure, as with everything else Vivat entertains, to excellent effect. www.vivatbacchus.co.uk London Golf Club Members can enjoy fine wines at warehouse prices thanks to an exclusive online Wine Club.

Through the Club’s website, Members can choose from a variety of vintages each month which will then be delivered directly to their home.

For more information go to the Members’ Section at www.londongolf.co.uk Ernie Els’ wine is also available at The London Golf Club

97

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