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Seve is golf’s most charismatic, charming, naturally talented and possibly its greatest ever player. The great man was admired and idolised by the public and his peers like no other, before or since.

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Support and follow the Seve Foundation in Seve’s final battle and his greatest legacy.

Tribute from Bernhard Gallacher OBE One of the greatest golfers, Captains and friends of Seve

Seve Ballesteros: The Passion & Fire Where it all began, and oh boy. What a ride!

Seve’s greatest shots Dan Loria casts a critical eye on his favourite shots from the great man throughout his illustrious career.

Indulge and celebrate in the great man.

Editors Tribute and Introduction

The Island of Islay Katherine Crisp makes a journey of discovery to one of the finest malts in the world.

Ryder Cup History & Heritage All of the European Ryder Cup matches and venues from its first match in 1927 to its modern day, purpose built venues.

Introduction to our selection of Seve relevant top tier clubs and courses. Quite literally, the finest challenges, scenery and Seve History rolled into lush, green fairways and bunkers...

www.lacoste.

2 ‘The Head’ by Anne Mackintosh

No other golfer or world figure produces a smile in the same way that Severiano Ballesteros does and yet manages to draw a tear moments later. From his renowned charm, humour and wit also came a fiery temper, passion and determination that made the great man what he was. His final battle, his sixth major is another great Seve victory - his creation and legacy remains and gives hope and courage to millions. His peers respected and adored him, golf fans loved him and the world watched every single moment.

We all miss him. 7

SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

The Shire London Seve designed magnificence, only matched by its welcome and managements charm and class.

Royal Lytham & St Annes Perhaps Seve’s greatest moments were played here - what a great choice!

Crans Sur Sierre Golf Club Swiss organisation meets Spanish flair - pretty too!

Woburn Golf Club History, Excellence, Extravagance. Alistair Tait lends a most prestigious hand to pen.

Heritage Golf Resort & Spa Outstanding Seve design and an incredible resort.

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Wentworth Absolutely well worth the visit. Not too much needs to be said, (however we did anyway). One of Seve’s most successful courses

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Lacoste in translation The premier brand and its attachment to the great Seve.

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Boss & their Captain The Iconic partnership. Synonymous with each other.

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On your marques. The marque of a champion. Marque’s de Riscal remembers.

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A tiny portion of the great & good remembering

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SEVE Ba l l ESt Er o S t h aS nEkV yE o Bu af o Ep r fEucl i a M El M l lr Et Sht EE wr oo nSd S Eo d r i it Ei So n

FROM THE EDITOR

Severiano Ballesteros

Was a young man of about 8 or 9 years old when I became first aware of Severiano Ballesteros. Like virtually all other kids in my area, golf wasn’t really played, more football, cricket or rugby. Seve changed all of that! He had a swagger, a charisma, a smile that just drew you in. Men, women and children became transfixed to this character that had to be noticed. The celebrations, raw emotion, actually, just the honesty that he brought to the game - to sport in general - was the thing for me that made Seve different.

Since Seve’s passing, there have been countless articles, features, programmes and stories about the great man from every corner of the world. The word legend is often overused. In this instance, I don’t even think that it does Seve justice! Golfers have always had great respect for Seve’s ability, how he played the game, how he brought excitement to the sport, and how he achieved such success. It was his creativity, his imagination, his competitiveness, and his desire to compete that made him so popular not only in Europe but around the world. He was a great entertainer not just confined to the greens and fairways. The Ryder Cup is possibly where Seve made his largest contribution to golf. Both as a player and as a captain, Seve fought, played, cried and celebrated like no other. He was one of the most passionate Ryder Cup players to compete in the matches and stood out during every appearance. He was Europe’s emotional and spiritual leader, and his teammates rallied around him. The Ryder Cup was something that was very special to Seve, and it showed. It has been widely reported that during those challenging moments from Celtic Manor during the wonderful 2010 tournament, Colin Montgomerie drew his troops around a speaker phone and spoke with Seve, then with fire and renewed fight in their bellies, sent his players to win it for the great Spaniard. They duly obliged despite a fierce some contest. Every Ryder Cup player and Monty himself dedicated that victory to Seve, and their only sadness was that Seve could not be there himself to lead the celebrations. Sadly, this proved to be the last Ryder Cup Seve would witness. He passed away following the most courageous and inspiring battles against Cancer on May 7th 2011. Though Seve will remain one of golf’s greatest ever players and continue to inspire, motivate and draw golfers to the game, perhaps his greatest legacy will be the Seve Ballesteros Foundation that has managed to touch the lives and give hope to many across the world. For your golf, your spirit, generosity & kindness we loved you. For your inspiration to millions, we shall always be grateful.

Joel Roberts In memory Severiano Ballesteros 9th April 1957 - 7th May 2011

The game of golf has been played on The Old Course at St Andrews Links for 600 years. It is the birthplace of the game where its rules were developed and the 18-hole format established. And Jaermann & Stübi has been the oﬃcial timekeeper of St Andrews Links and provides clocks to The Home of Golf. However, it isn’t necessary to travel to Scotland to read the oﬃcial tee time. A glance at the wrist bearing a Jaermann & Stübi timepiece is enough to show you the precise time and somewhat more: the number of strokes per hole, the total strokes after 18 holes and your score compared to your handicap. Everything is mechanical and protected by a shock absorber in the sophisticated case. We wish you a good game! www.jaermann-stuebi.com SUPPLIER

SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

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Seve receiving an honorary degree from St Andrews University with his great friend and adversary, Colin Montgomerie in 2000

1983 Royal Sun Alliance, Seve at the PGA Championship, Royal St Georges

AP Ltd./ One off media (Spain) Sky Communications J Roberts F Torres Gary Little 70byseventy design London Marcus Lafayette Sheila Jones Alan C Birch Phil Sheldon Lacoste Jeff Kelly Hugo Boss Yves Mittaz Zeke McCabe David Cannon Getty Images Augusta National Peter Dazeley Popperfoto St Andrews Uni. Victor R Caivano All of the great golf clubs featured Alistair Tait Alexandra Lyon-Dean Dan Loria Ted Jones Jnr. Katherine Crisp Bernard Gallacher OBE Julian Small Peter Dawson Graham Cochrane Michael Morton Tony Menai Davis Anne Mackintosh Niall Carroll Grainne O’ Malley Veronique Prado Lacoste Ramon Roman Paul Sanders Peter Rishworth Maria O’Connor Craig Bousfield Tim Culshaw Visconde de Pereira Machado Joakim Söderström Glenna Beasley Jochem Gelderman

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13 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

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A tribute to Seve, from Bernard Gallacher OBE Seve was Europe’s first golfing superstar. He was Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus rolled into one. An immensely charismatic person and one of the game’s greatest ever players. From the late 70’s until the early 90’s when he started to develop severe back problems, he was the games dominant and most watched player. Seve’s legacy is the strength of today’s Spanish players and the growth in popularity of the game of golf in Europe, particularly in his own country. Also a thriving European Tour which goes from strength to strength and a Ryder Cup Team that has long since shed its inferiority complex thanks to his on course inspirational leadership. A fond farewell.

Bernard Gallacher OBE

SSEEVVEE BBAALLLLEESSTTEERROOSS

“GOLF’S

GREATEST ICON” The man who changed the face of golf, unmatched charisma, shot selection and skill. Europe’s heart & soul of golf, Severiano Ballesteros BY JOEL ROBERTS

“He was sitting quite near me behind a high row of lockers. And he was crying,” Piñero, smiling, recalls. “I asked him what was wrong, and he told me he had come to win the tournament - and he had failed. He expected to win! That was the first sign for me that Seve Ballesteros was special.” Seve came a long way since that remarkable start, but those unique attributes only seen in those few, special and legendary sports people remained throughout Seve’s life. Seve went on to become Europe’s if not the world’s greatest ever golfer. Certainly within the ultimate group of greats. Seve always thought he could win, he expected to - and though he had respect for those he played and competed with, Seve Ballesteros wanted to and thought he should win every time. Raw talent people say. Not quite true. Yes he was undoubtedly gifted, but Seve spent hours practicing. As a child he used to hit pebbles on the beach near his home with a rusty old set of clubs.

Its often the case that real genius needs effort, work and commitment to come through and fulfil its promise. Seve had a determination, a stubbornness and had the patience to work, work then continue to work until he could do so no longer. Charisma, well this was natural. No amount of work could produce what Seve had in abundance. With all of the adjectives thrown around to try to pin point who Seve was, suave, entertaining, wayward, intense, I tend to add unorthodox to the mix. No-one had ever seen anything like Seve before, or since. Its not worth anyone trying to be or act like Seve. Its impossible. Most golfers smile when they talk of Seve’s swing, often amazing, occasionally wayward. The swing and the angle his body made was incredible. No wonder his back began to cause him pain in later life, the stresses he placed upon it were plain to see. He knew it too. When it comes to Seve, everyone has an opinion, every bar the conversations went on - and on....

OPPOSITE PAGE AND ABOVE: AUGUSTA NATIONAL

N MARCH 1974, Manuel Piñero had just won the Spanish National Professional Championship at the Sant Cugat Club in Barcelona. Apparently, Piñero was asked if he has seen anything of the promising youngster who finished 20th. This was an intense young man 16 years of age from the small fishing village of Pedreña on Spain’s rainy and windswept northern coast. Sant Cugat was a friendly club, and this tournament in particular was renowned for its friendly rivalry, so Piñero sought the youngster to congratulate him on a fine performance in what was his professional debut.

S E V E B A LL E S T E R O S “He is one of those players we were all lucky to see,” said Piñero, “He was the first golfer in Spainto be known to everyone. In my opinion he is one of the top three Spanish sportsmen of all time.” “It wasn’t just the tournaments he won. It was the way he won and the way he played. You just couldn’t take your eyes off him.” Words, I am certain echoed and agreed with by all. Seve Ballesteros had a unique aura that seemed to surround him at all times. His presence, his charisma - that we all enjoyed - his absolute brilliance on the golf course and bravery both within the game and later in his life combined with a dignity and humility in fighting cancer and giving hope to sufferers and families alike. Sky Television commentator, Ewen Murray recalled. “He was wearing a pair of brown and white shoes that were not very clean. And he had only nine clubs in his bag. I honestly thought he was a caddie.

Left: Brothers: Ballesteros breaks down in the arms of his eldest brother, Baldomero, after winning his first Open Championship.

Below: Ballesteros at Royal Lytham & St. Annes in ’79 on the way to claiming his first major title.

Seve played in eight Ryder Cups, finishing on the winning side three times. Seve won five major championships: three Opens and two Masters.

”IT WASN’T JUST THE TOURNAMENTS “My brother Baldomero says that my best golfing HE WON. IT WAS THE WAY HE WON. YOU JUST COULDN’T TAKE YOUR EYES OFF HIM” years were from 14-18 years old,” Ballesteros said frankly. “But I think that my best game lasted “Three holes into our round, my initial between 1975 and 1988. Thereafter, I competed impression had changed more than a bit. For one with a game based on experience and determinathing, nine clubs was actually more than he tion. But the mental coolness had diminished. needed. And for another, once he got around the When that happens, the game suffers.” greens, I knew I was in the company of a genius.” Dates, tournament facts and statistics simply The same was true at the opposite end of his cannot begin to summarise who Seve was and competitive golfing life. For all that the last few the overall contribution of a man who set the years of Ballesteros’ time on tour were in stark groundwork for a new generation of truly worldcontrast to the earlier glories—between ‘76 class European players. Statistics cannot begin ’92 he was never out of the top 20 on the to show what it was that Seve gave to golf or European Order of Merit; between 1996-2001 he what he achieved. For all of the victories, for his was never inside the top 100—those around him triumphing in America against the very best, for still recognized his greatness. Players, caddies, his almost single handedly resurrecting the fans and the media would always watch Seve Ryder Cup - on both sides of the Atlantic - what practicing. It was his chipping that former Open Seve had, wasn’t career totals. Champion Geoff Ogilvy was in awe of. “I never It was how he did it. used to watch him hit balls on the range, but whenever he went to the chipping green, I went with him. Just to watch. For me, he is maybe the most talented player ever. “My first memory of him is the chip he hit to the 18th green at Lytham in 1988 when he won his third Open. I must have watched that shot 1,000 times. It’s the best chip I’ve ever seen. And it still looks like it is going in every time I watch it.” In 2007 at Carnoustie, Scotland, during the 2007 Open Championship, racked with pain apparently from a back he first injured in a friendly boxing match as a 14-year old, that Ballesteros finally retired from a career that, between his maiden victory at the 1976 Dutch Open and his last, the ’95 Spanish Open, produced a record 50 European Tour victories. Around the world he won a further 33 times more, including five World Match Play titles at Wentworth.

Opposite: The ﬁrst of Seve Ballesteros’ Open Championship wins, at Royal Lytham & St. Annes in 1979.

S EVE

BA L LE S T E R O S

JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT SEVE’S NEXT SHOT WAS SAFE, THE DANGER RETURNED..... THEN IT GOT INTERESTING!

ABOVE: Fuzzy Zoeller presents Ballesteros with his ﬁrst of two green jackets after winning the 44th Masters in 1980.

Perhaps only Arnold Palmer has ever played golf with as much panache and verve as Seve. Everyone was in awe of Seve. Everyone loves him: the fans, the television and the sponsors. I simply cannot think of another sportsman who held the various corporate brands together, providing a brand awareness, ultimate goodwill, that irresistible ‘cool’ factor but also that wanna’ be a part of it-bit’ that you just can’t find! To this day, if you say - with a modest Spanish accent ”don’t leave home without it..” - they will probably know what you are talking about! I struggle to remember many other advert quotes... Indeed, watching Seve battle a golf course wasn’t traditional golf. There was an obvious and beautiful battle. It was akin to a roller coaster ride. Just when you thought it was safe, the danger returned, and then it got interesting. Then Seve would steal the show. By the end, whatever the result, the overall feeling was one of exhilaration at having witnessed and experienced a true force of nature at work. Peter Aliss, a BBC commentators words will always sum up Seve’s golf to me, whilst I was watching Seve chip from an impossible angle to within inches of the hole, the camera focussed on Seve’s frown, his thoughts as the ball travelled, his hope for the hole, then Seve’s despair as it rolled an inch wide, “ well”, Aliss said, “ that was worth the entire licence fee just to watch that- Wasn’t it?” Everyone in my house was nodding in complete agreement! Even more surprising given mine wasn’t really a golfing household, (certainly getting my mother to sit and watch must be one of Seve’s greatest achievements in my eyes!)

LEFT: AUGUSTA NATIONAL ABOVE: POPPERFOTO

Right: Ballesteros at the 1980 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club.

S E V E B A LL E S T E R O S

“Seve was my hero,” says three-time major champion Ernie Els. “I always wanted to swing like him, putt like him, chip like him. He was always the picture in my mind when I was practicing. “You can talk all you want about Arnie (Arnold Palmer) —and Arnie was great—but Seve was golf outside America. He was the European Tour. He always had the biggest gallery, no matter what country he was in. He was Tiger before Tiger was Tiger.” Before Seve, American golf was in literally another league - in every sense. All of a sudden, Seve Ballesteros not only had the ability to beat them on their own ground, his pure talent enabled him to do so with a panache’ that almost kicked sand in their faces afterwards. The Americans just were not used to seeing anything like it - and they certainly didn’t like it! Because it was Seve, the American audience tolerated it to the extent they too held a special place in their hearts at a time of numerous US golfing excellence. Seve claimed the first of what would be five major titles at Royal Lytham & St. Annes in 1979, and then quickly added a second at Augusta National Golf Club less than a year later, the European cupboard had been all but bare.

Tony Jacklin apart, no one from the eastern end of the Atlantic had won the U.S. Open in more than half a century. The same was true of the PGA Championship. And none had ever won the Masters. At the pinnacle of the sport, golf was America’s game. But Seve changed all that. While others came along to emulate his feats — Sandy Lyle, Nick Faldo, Bernhard Langer, Ian Woosnam and José María Olazábal would all win Grand Slam events in the 15 years after Seve broke through— he was always the first: First to win in America, at the 1978 Greater Greensboro Classic, his PGA TOUR debut. First to win a major. First to believe that the Ryder Cup could be won after years of American dominance. Just how special the disappointed and weeping teenager consoled by Piñero would be did not remain a mystery for long. By October of ’74, the by-then 17-year-old Ballesteros (whose uncle, Ramon Sota, had been a good enough player to finish sixth in the 1965 Masters) had finished fifth in the Italian Open. One year later, he’d recorded a handful of top-10 finishes in European Tour events — the highlight was third-place behind Gary Player at the Lancome Trophy in Paris—and topped the Continental Order of Merit, a distinction that offered with it an exemption into the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale the following summer. Mike Gilyeat, General Secretary at Royal Birkdale remembers “our first experience of Seve was as a 19 year old at the 1976 Open when he was joint second to Johnny Miller. One of our senior members who was part of the Championship Committee at that time often recalls that the club received a phone call from the railway station saying they had a foreign chap who didn’t speak much English, but since he had a set of clubs assumed he was here for the golf”. The club arranged for a taxi and duly delivered Mr Ballesteros. “His story during that event and his performance ignited the most special relationship with the public”. Those memorable performances to this day still resonate with those fortunate enough to remember watching. The summer of 1976 was always famed and famous for being one of the warmest on record, in Seve’s case, it simply couldn’t have been any hotter. He didn’t win, of course, Johnny Miller took the honours - however, ask anyone at Royal Birkdale, or any viewers, the 76’ tournament will always be remembered as the Seve breakthrough. Seve struck an audacious chip-and-run through the narrow gap separating two greenside bunkers and set up one last birdie and tie Jack Nicklaus for second place. “It was Seve’s driver that killed him” commented Johnny Miller afterwards.

ABOVE: Ballesteros and Jack Nicklaus together at the Champions Dinner during the 1981 Masters Tournament.

I really think that if he could have contained himself and used a 1-iron he might have won. But the best thing for Seve today was that he finished second. His day will come.”.

S EVE

Below: At the 1983 Masters, Ballesteros watches his chip shot. Below right: Ballesteros finds a moment of relief and celebration.

BA L LE S T E R O S

And it did, all too quickly. Three tournaments later, Ballesteros — the youngest of four brothers, all golf professionals— became the Dutch Open champion. It is not, however, for mere victories that Ballesteros is remembered with unmatched affection by those he played with and against over the course of a 33-year professional career. Everyone, it seems, has a Seve story that begins with, “you won’t believe what he did,” or “it was amazing,” or “it was a shot I could never hit, or even imagine hitting.” Even the Golden Bear has been impressed The 3-wood Seve struck from a distant fairway bunker to the edge of the final green at PGA National during the 1983 Ryder Cup remains the greatest shot Jack Nicklaus, one of the game’s greatest ever player, ever saw.

As accolades go, that is hard to beat. Perhaps Seve’s most famous shot, however, is one that is still talked of with bewilderment, admiration and disbelief all in one. It came at Crans- sur-Sierre in Switzerland during the 1993 European Masters. “Seve was four shots behind with six holes to play,” recalls Billy Foster, his caddie that week. “Then, after making five birdies in a row from the 13th, he smashed his tee shot miles to the right at the last. When we found his ball, it was about 6 feet from an 8-foot-high wall that bordered a swimming pool. He was deep in the trees and had only half a backswing because of a branch. And there were more trees all over the top of the wall.

“...REMAINS THE GREATEST SHOT JACK NICKLAUS... EVER SAW” “So he gets down on his hands and knees and sees a gap. It was maybe 2 square feet. ‘Billy,’ he said, ‘I have this shot, eh?’ “I, of course, was having none of it. ‘Seve,’ I said, ‘you’re tied for the lead. Chip out sideways and try to make a par from there.’ “I was wasting my breath. ‘No, no, Billy, I have this shot,’ he said, before waving me away. So I left him. As I walked away I told him: ‘I know you’re Seve Ballesteros, but you’re not bloody David Copperfield.’ “The thing is, he didn’t even use his sand wedge, his most lofted club. (Seve never used a lob wedge.) He pulled out his pitching wedge and, sure enough, hit it through the gap, over the wall, over some 8-foot pine trees near the green and onto the fringe of the green. It was easily the best shot I’ve ever seen in my life. I got down on my hands and knees and bowed to him as he walked up the fairway. And, of course, he chipped in for a birdie.”

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For Ballesteros, this confidence and belief married with such ability were common place. But those shots still had to be learned, and the young Seve’s classroom was the beach at Pedreña as touched upon earlier. The product of a modest family background—his father was a sometime farmer, sometime fisherman whose home, significantly, backed onto the Royal Club de Golf de Pedreña—it was on the vast sands that the young Seve learned the game. Armed only with a rusty old 3-iron, the pre-teen manufactured all kinds of shots: high and low, slice and hook and everything in between. “Most of the people in the village worked at the golf club,” he remembers. “The children were all caddies, making a few pesetas to help the family. My brothers were all caddies, then professionals, so I was surrounded by a golfing atmosphere. Straight away the game got into me. I would practice on the beach, because I wasn’t allowed on the golf course.” It was, however, a labour of love, one the youngster would spend hour upon hour mastering, often when his parents thought he was in school. By the time he was 15, Ballesteros had the equivalent of a graduate degree in shot making. “Never when you are a child do you think you are especially gifted for something,”he says. “What you do notice is passion because you feel it. Passion makes you devote yourself to what you really like. Between golf and me therewas chemistry; there was mutual love. And when you devote yourself, success comes.The distance between talent and success is called work. If you do not work hard, success waters down.” Indeed, it can be argued that Seve worked too hard. Many blame his relentless practice for aggravating the back injury that would eventually lead to his premature retirement. “It’s a pity that so few of the kids on tour have any idea how great Seve was,” Els says. “I find that enormously sad. It is their loss. There is nobody like him out there now. No one plays golf like he did.” Still, the memories will forever remain. No one who was present that day will ever forget the spontaneous fist-pumping celebration that followed the 10-foot putt that won the 1984 Open Championship at St. Andrews. “That was my most exciting shot,” Says Seve. “ Because I won at the birthplace Of golf.”

BA L LE S T E R O S

Above: Ballesteros back with a trademark celebration.

Left: Ballesteros holes a 10-foot putt to cap his victory at the Old Course at St. Andrews.

LEFT: DAVID CANNON /ALLSPORT

S EVE

S E V E B A LL E S T E R O S

His partnership with compatriot Olazábal alone is legendary. In 15 matches together, the two amigos combined for 12 points, losing only twice. But it is Seve’s singles match with Tom Lehman at Oak Hill in 1995 that lingers most in the memory. Armed with a long game he himself described as “hopeless,” Ballesteros demonstrated every facet of his peerless short game in extending the contest—what would end up to be his last as a Ryder Cup player—as far as the 16th green. Time and again he turned three shots into two and secured the unlikeliest of halves and, through it all, never lost his sense of humour Walking up the 10th fairway that day, Seve was approached by the great European skipper Bernard Gallacher. “Seve,” asked the Scot, “why are you smiling when you are one down?” “Because Bernard,” came the instant reply, “I should be nine down!” In the press conference afterwards, a breathless Lehman paid tribute to Seve “That was the toughest guy I’ve ever played,” after completing his 3-and-2 victory. “He was absolutely unbelievable. I salute him.”

He also won, more than once if you believe the legend, despite a driver that was forever reputed to be less than accurate. Exhibit ‘A’ in that respect has always been the famous occasion, en route to winning the 1979 Open at Royal Lytham, when Ballesteros played his second shot to the 70th green from a temporary car park far to the right of the fairway. But those who know the man best dismiss any charge of waywardness from the tee. “It is rubbish to say that Seve was a wild driver,” insists Piñero. “He was one of the straightest drivers I ever saw. When he won at Lytham in ’79, he hit his tee shot at the 16th way to the right on purpose. I was there. With the wind blowing the way it was, the shot from the fairway was very difficult. But from where Seve was, the approach was easy. He knew exactly what he was doing.” Still, for all that Ballesteros eventually achieved, it can perhaps be summed up best by the passion he brought to the Ryder Cup on more than one occasion. Seve it can be argued, transformed European Golf and consequently the Ryder Cup. How the tournament is played, regarded and followed.

Left: Ballesteros’ ﬁnal putt clinched the European Team’s victory over Team USA in the 1987 Ryder Cup held at Muirﬁeld Village Golf Club. Below: A jubilant Ballesteros with the Ryder Cup trophy the Europeans won in 1985 at The Belfry, ending the Americans’ winning streak dating back to 1971.

“THAT WAS THE TOUGHEST GUY I EVER PLAYED” LEHMAN

S EVE

BA L LE S T E R O S

One of Seve’s dreams was to take his beloved Ryder Cup to Spain at Valderrama. “It was Seve’s dream to bring the Ryder to the people of Spain” remembered Visconde de Pereira Machado (President of Valderrama). As a non-playing Captain, Seve proudly undertook the role of captain in 1997 and made the tournament all his own. He was literally everywhere, from the canteen, through to almost every hole at every match, frantically scurrying around in his buggy whilst attached to a two-way radio. Seve wanted to show the world (and the US in particular) just how Europe had grown up in golf terms. Since 1997, Seve still played and continued to fight with great exuberance and skill. The toll on his back began to show and his game by his admission suffered. At Madrid airport in October 2008, Seve collapsed and suffered a seizure. He was diagnosed with a brain tumour, but now his true grit, determination and battling qualities came to the fore. Seve called this his sixth major and his greatest challenge. He did also say that he was awarded a mulligan, another chance. He undertook a vigorous regime of exercise and medical treatment. Seve underwent four incredibly complex and difficult operations and various bouts of chemotherapy. Despite this, and in spite of this, Seve set up a Foundation to bring awareness, to generate funds and to help similarly afflicted people and their families. His tireless work and dedication can only be compared to that of his playing career, but this time every shot meant that little bit more. When Seve passed away on that fateful day in May 2011, the world held its breath, then wept. Golf of course stopped in its tracks. Every player from every golf club in every country remembered, talked about the man and his game. Such is the respect and love Seve gave, it felt like we all lost a dear friend. The non-golfing world too stopped and felt the loss. That was Seve’s unique mark as a great man and legend. Seve’s wishes were to be buried like any other in his home town with his family. The world came to watch and show its respect to the great man. Raise a glass if you can to Severiano Ballesteros. Support his Foundation and follow in his footsteps. There is much to remember - so much to love.

Top Right: 1979 Open

VICTOR R. CAIVANO

Right: Ballesteros meets with the media in Madrid, Spain, in June of last year. It was the ﬁrst time he appeared in public since undergoing surgery for a brain tumor after it was discovered in October 2008.

S EVE

BA L LE S T E R O S

SEVE BALLESTEROS ’ CAREER RECORD MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIP VICTORIES 1979 1980 1983 1984 1988

Open Championship Masters Tournament Masters Tournament Open Championship Open Championship

1989

1990 1991

PGA EUROPEAN TOUR VICTORIES 1992 1976 1977

1978

1979 1980

1981 1982 1983

1985

1986

1987 1988

Dutch Open French Open Uniroyal International Championship Swiss Open Martini International Braun German Open Scandinavian Enterprise Open Swiss Open English Golf Classic Madrid Open Martini International Dutch Open Scandinavian Enterprise Open Benson & Hedges Spanish Open Cepsa Madrid Open French Open Sun Alliance PGA Championship Carroll’s Irish Open Lancome Trophy Carroll’s Irish Open Peugeot French Open Sanyo Open Benson & Hedges Spanish Open Dunhill British Masters Carroll’s Irish Open Johnnie Walker Monte Carlo Open Peugeot French Open KLM Dutch Open Lancome Trophy Suze Open Mallorca Open De Baleares Scandinavian Enterprise Open

1994 1995

German Open Lancome Trophy Cepsa Madrid Open Epson Grand Prix of Europe Match Play Championship Ebel European Masters Swiss Open Open de Baleares Volvo PGA Championship Dunhill British Masters Dubal Desert Classic Turespana Open de Baleares Benson & Hedges International Open Mercedes German Masters Peugeot Spanish Open

PGA TOUR VICTORIES 1978 1983 1985 1988

Greater Greensboro Open Westchester Classic USF&G Classic Westchester Classic

OTHER VICTORIES 1974 1975 1976

1977

1978

1979 1981

Campeonato Nacional Para Sub-25 Open de Vizcaya Campeonato Nacional Para Sub-25 Lancome Trophy Memorial Donald Swaelens Campeonato de Cataluna Campeonato de Tenerife World Cup (with Manuel Piñero) Japanese Open Dunlop Phoenix Open Otago Classic Braun International World Cup (with Antonio Garrido) Kenya Open Japanese Open Campeonato Nacional Para Sub-25 Open el Prat Australian PGA Championship

OTHER VICTORIES (continued)

1982 1983 1984 1985 1987 1988 1991 1992 1995

Dunlop Phoenix Suntory World Match Play Championship Suntory World Match Play Championship Masters de San Remo Million Dollar Challenge Million Dollar Challenge Suntory World Match Play Championship Suntory World Match Play Championship Campeonato de España-Codorniu APG Larios Campeonato de España Para Profesionales VISA Taiheiyo Masters APG Larios Chunichi Crowns Open Toyota World Match Play Championship Copa Quinto Lentenario per Equipos Tournoi Perrier de Paris (with José María Olazábal)

OTHER CAREER ACCOMPLISHMENTS •

BACKGROUND PHOTO: MICHAEL O’BRYON

• • • • • •

Harry Vardon Trophy (formerly the European Tour Order of Merit) 1976, ’77, ’78, ’86, ’88, ’91 Johnnie Walker Golfer of the Year 1986, ’88, ’91 European Ryder Cup Team 1979, ’83, ’85, ’87, ’89, ’91, ’93, ’95 European Ryder Cup captain 1997 World Golf Hall of Fame 1999 European Player of the Century in 2000 First European Tour player to earn £1 million, £2 million and £3 million Continental Europe against Great Britain and Ireland, named in his honour

18 holes with Seve By Dan Loria When I was first asked to write this article I was in the middle of a doubles knockout where, waiting on a tee-box I had a sneaky check of my phone and saw a text from the editor asking if it would be something that I would like to do. My instant reaction of course was delight & I immediately agreed. I then spent the next 8 holes trying desperately to cling onto a three up lead, (which we did end up winning) but this was only because my partner managed to hold his nerve ...my game had gone you see. The reason: Seve. That is what this man Seve Ballesteros managed and still manages to do to people. His awesome ability, flare and never say die attitude fills the forefront of your mind and takes over all your thoughts. I ended up spending weeks talking to all kinds of people from all walks of life - golfers and non golfers, asking them what memories they had of Seve & what shots they remembered. They nearly all said the same three shots - different orders but three shots that summed Seve, his sheer class and the way his charisma saturated a sport and captivated a world. Picture copyright David Cannon

This typifies the man and everything we saw, loved and envied about him. This wasn’t spectacular or outrageously difficult, this was a high pressure situation that required Seve to be at his clinical best. A time when he was once again able to embrace the pressure and make a 20ft putt to win the open at a place he so desperately wanted to win. The home of golf. Seve chose this shot as his personal favourite as I believe that had he not made it and lost the open that year it would have been his greatest regret. The TV cameras capture the joy in his face which in itself is iconic and something that all golfers never tire of seeing. Passion personified. Celebration Seve style! 2. For a 19 year old to have the vision and creative ability to play that audacious chip at the last hole, proved to everyone that this “kid” was special. His attitude was to never give up and he showed that on this hole. Chasing Johnny Miller on the par five 18th he left his approach shot to the left of the green. The problem with this was the pin was tucked left and two bunkers lay between his ball and the tricky pin position which meant there was no way he could stop the ball near the pin. Many had tried during this final day and all had failed. It was then that Seve showed us why he was “different”. He saw a gap of about 3 feet between the bunkers and realized he could chip the ball between both of them & run it up to the hole. Out came the nine iron & he duly managed to put the ball to 4 feet. He then put the ball in the hole for an unlikely birdie & ended up in a tie for second place with Jack Nicklaus. No one else would have attempted that shot at that time.

Seve on the 13th tee was out of the tournament & needed to do something special to get back into it. He duly obliged by making birdie on the 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th and 17th holes & had the momentum with him as he lies tied for the lead standing on the 18th tee. With three wood in hand he pushes his tee shot right into the trees. What happened next defies belief but says everything about Seve’s attitude. When he arrives at the ball he is faced with it lying 6 feet behind an 8 foot high wall. Beyond this wall the green is 150 yards away over a swimming pool & 60 foot pine trees. Getting the ball back in play should be his main concern but Seve didn’t think like this. He starts looking at a gap over the wall and through the trees; a gap that is about the size of a dinner plate. It’s so ridiculous his caddy almost gets on his knees to beg him to play it safe & get back on the fairway but Seve shoves him away as he only has eyes for the gap between the pines. With a pitching wedge in hand & only half a swing available Seve somehow manages to get the ball to just short of the green. The ridiculous then turns to the sublime as he chips the next shot in for a birdie. His caddy at the time was no other than Billy Foster who now caddies for Lee Westwood said: “that shot over the wall was the best shot I’ve seen in my life. Picture courtesy Yves Mittaz/ Crans Sur Sierre

When Jack Nicklaus exclaims this as the greatest shot he has ever seen you know it must be something special. It is Ryder Cup Sunday &the singles matches are in full flow – Seve’s on the 18th & all square against an in-form Fuzzy Zoeller. Seve pull-hooks his tee shot into the deep left rough. He is then only able to advance it into a fairway bunker but is still some 245 yards away from the green. Losing a full point to the USA is looking likely as the ball is up against the face of the bunker & he would obviously have to take a short iron to get it out. Once again Seve sees what others cannot & pulls out his 3 wood, takes his stance and lets rip. With the famous “Seve stare” behind it, the ball flies for what seems like miles & makes the fringe of the green. Seve in true warrior style gets the half point as only Seve knew how. Team mate Ken Brown’s words afterwards: “It was a combination of the outrageousness of the shot and the fact that it was almost physically impossible that makes it one of the best shots ever hit.” Being called “The Car Park Champion” insinuates that Seve was wild but this was as far away from the truth that one could get. Seve’s brilliant imagination for problem solving on the golf course was shown in all its glory here at the 16th hole at Royal Lytham. Knowing that the green was rock hard and the impossibility of stopping the ball anywhere close to the pin made Seve look at other ways. He decided to play his tee shot into the car park to the right of the fairway. He knew that he would get a free drop & a better angle to attack the pin. And attack he did as he knocked it on the green to 15 feet &holed out for birdie going on to claim his first Open Championship. Having been two down with two to play against the great Arnold Palmer, Seve manages to claw one back at seventeen. Seve plays his first two shots on the par five eighteenth well but finds himself in a very tight spot with a greenside bunker right in front and about 50 yards to the pin. Seve checks every angle of the green, concentration abound he selects the landing area for his eight iron. He clears the bunker by inches and the ball swoops perfectly down the green with just the perfect amount of right to left break and falls into the cup for an eagle three. The crowd go wild as they know its a sudden death playoff between these two champions. Seve goes on to win on the 3rd extra hole. The true class of Arnold Palmer comes out as he explains how he has done that to so many people in the past he cannot possibly be mad!

18 holes with Seve Trailing by one shot going into the final round of the masters at Seve’s beloved Augusta he comes to the fourth hole with the adrenaline flowing. Into the wind with 205 yards to go Seve powers a two iron through the wind a puts it to 2 feet from the cup for an easy Birdie. Seve proclaimed “those first four holes were the best I have ever played”. Seve went on to win the Masters for a second time beating Tom Kite and Ben Crenshaw by 4 strokes.

File Image from Image Library

Modern day technology gives more people a chance of “doing a Seve” at the par four 10th Hole and driving the green. The classic risk and reward hole where the green is gallantly protected by water, trees and strategic bunkers. The hole that everyone talked about when I was growing up. However, the questions is how many people actually do drive the green? Back in ’78 Seve was playing Nick Faldo in a team event between Great Britain and Europe. Faldo the tactical genius laid up with an iron but Seve could not do that. With a Persimmon head Driver in hand he hit the ball over 300 yards carrying the trees & onto the green finishing only 8 feet from the hole. A plaque is in place to commemorate this achievement.

Once again Seve steps onto the 10th Tee in a team competition with only one thing on his mind. Audacious because he is playing foursomes with teammate Manuel Piñero, but once again Seve pulls the magic out of the bag and flies the ball onto the green setting up another great birdie. They went on to give Europe a much needed win in the early morning rounds. Although this was in the twilight of Seve’s career he once again showed us his imagination and complete belief in his own ability. He finds his ball in a copse of trees and instead of taking the normal sensible way out he defies all by by getting onto his knees and hooking a ball through a tiny gap around the trees and up the fairway to the apron of the green. Inspirational to all who witnessed it but I suppose for Seve he was just doing what he felt was normal. Risk and Reward, gung ho, never say die.....these are all sayings that I think Seve used to memorise when he went to sleep at night. An example was in the ’84 Open when he was faced with an extremely difficult shot to the green at the famous “road hole” 17th. He had put his tee shot into the rough but yet still took on the famous pot bunker and managed to get the ball over it and the ball stopped before it got to the road!

One of the most important saves of Seve’s career at the 17th Hole at Augusta. After a hooked drive that found his ball on the 7th green Seve somehow saw the gap in the top of the trees and with a long iron he was able to hit is sweetly and get it onto the treacherous green and stop it! After a great putt he was walking off with Birdie and with all the momentum behind him he was able to win his first green jacket. Seve at his very best.

Seve finds himself in a playoff against Colin Montgomerie. And after a wayward drive his ball lies in the left hand rough 216 yards from the pin. Seve takes a five iron and hits it so sweet that the crowd go mad as the ball rolls up to the pin to finish just a gimmee away & the title is Seve’s once again.

(12.) 1980 US Masters...” Ballesteros on his way to golfing greatness..”

Picture copyright David Cannon

After being 3 down with five to play Seve battled his way back to only one down on the 17th. He put his approach to the green to 20 feet where he then went on one of his stalking missions to review every nook and cranny on the green. It was worth it though as he drilled it into the hole and squares the match. He went on to gain a valuable half point which helps Europe go on to win.

(17.) Royal Lytham & St Annes 1988

Another fine example of Seve’s brilliant imagination and problem solving ability came at the ninth hole where he found the par three playing much longer than the previous two days where everybody had been taking a 3 iron. Today was a three wood for the mere mortals......but not Seve. Robert Lee once recalled how he stood on that teebox and watched Seve with a three iron in hand building a tee out of dirt and bits of grass. It then dawned on him that Seve was making himself a flyer lie! A lie that would take off all the spin and make the ball fly further........Once again Seve produced a wonder shot as the ball flew to the edge of the green. To keep such a calm, clear mind in the heat of battle and to recall the knowledge of the ball spin was pure genius in anyone’s eyes. On the 5th hole Seve finds his ball on a downslope and a horrible lie. He takes out his two iron and rips one onto the green and sets up a 15 foot eagle putt. Never before had the world seen a player with the artistry, flare and calmness in difficult situations. Lee Trevino exclaimed when he saw that shot “Touch of class, baby” which I think says it all. After starting the final round two shots behind Nick Price, Seve goes on a famous charge and he is 6 under par between holes 6 & 13 and after a tap in birdie at the 16th he finds himself one shot in front and has put the pressure onto his playing partner Price. At the 18th Seve pulls his second shot left of the green and his ball falls into a little depression in the ground. Price is on the green and 35 feet from the hole in two. Seve needs to do something to avoid throwing away this title so he gently flies the ball out of the depression and onto the green where it somehow finds enough pace to get up to the hole and brushes the edge as it finishes agonisingly close. However Price fails in his Birdie attempt & Seve has his third Open title. Seve is struggling with his game and he and his team mates all know it. He is playing a great Tom Lehmann and he cant keep the ball on the golf course but in true Seve, matador style he somehow manages to keep himself in the match by making par after par from all over the place. On one hole he hits the most amazing three wood through the tiniest gap in the trees. In doing this he inspired every single one of his teammates. Sam Torrance said “he gave us hope” Although Seve didn’t hit a fairway in the first nine holes he managed to keep Lehmanns lead to only 1 up. This showed on the board and although Seve lost that match his teammates went on to win the Ryder Cup.

hisky connoisseurs the world over know all about the famous Islay Malts – all heavy on the peat with a strong smoky finish, right? Wrong. is the gentle taste of Islay, and takes you on a smooth journey round the island and beyond.

Bunnahabhain has sat proudly on the northern shore of Islay for over 125 years creating this distinctly gentle Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky. Anyone who has journeyed to this remote part of Islay is delighted by their discovery – an outstanding whisky, with the distillery set amongst some of the most stunning scenery on the Island. This amber ‘water of life’ is a light dram whose peat notes are understated. A fresh and aromatic nose, which at first seems simple, then becomes more complex. The only thing that overpowers at Bunnahabhain is the breathtaking scenery set in a wonderfully remote location, with sea influence and free flowing mountain spring water, making it an idyllic place for whisky Top: Islay, and (above) moving the barrels distillation. Bunnahabhain is the flagship malt Scotch whisky from Burn It prevents the whisky, when in the bottle at an alcohol Stewart Distillers and is exported to over 30 countries globally. level below 46% abv, or when served, from becoming The superior quality of the whisky is widely recognized with the hazy when chilled. Some whisky experts believe that brand consistently winning awards in international competitions. chill-filtration removes some of the flavour and body Unlike its neighbouring distilleries on the Island, Bunnahabhain from the whisky and when un-chillfiltered, the dram embodies “the gentle taste of Islay”, as it is not a typically heavily retains a depth of flavour the filtration process would peated smoke filled Islay malt. otherwise rob it of. In line with Burn Stewart Distillers' Master Blender, Ian Ian MacMillan, Master Blender commented MacMillan's vision, Bunnahabhain is now un-chillfiltered with a “Enjoying the experience of un-chillfiltered higher strength of 46.3%. Bunnahabhain allows you to enjoy the natural flavours The process of chill-filtering removes some of the oily-fatty and deep character of the whisky - as natural as can be – compounds produced during distillation or extracted in the just as it should be”.

maturation period. 39 SEVE- A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

The proof of the pudding... The tasting of Bunnahabhainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 12, 18 & 25 year

This is a fresh and aromatic experience with a subtle whiff of smoke floating through the air. The taste starts with a light fruit and nut appeal that leads to a spectacular malty sweetness, finishing into a beautifully rich full - bodied lingering experience.

A most welcoming fragrant nose releases honeyed nuts and a slightly sea-induced salty tang. Rich toffee and leathery oak aromas can be sensed upon further inspection. Beautifully balanced, the palate is influenced by mellow sherried nuts and shavings of the finest natural oak wood. A finish of dry notes with mixed spices fading into a light salt and sherry finale.

This 25 year old has an amber gold colouring with quite a sherried nose, at first, that introduces a stunning introduction with sweet caramel dessert aromas with subtle oak and polished leather. Sweet berries and cream ensures a wonderful mĂŠlange of tastes that progress into a roasted nut and malt feast, sprinkled only with the most complementary of spices to balance the profile perfectly. A soft, yet dry finish awaits you, with the sense of lingering sugar and spiced-oak flavours. SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

RYDER CUP HERITAGE AND HISTORY The Ryder Cup has become one of the world’s greatest sporting events and ranks third in terms of size, scale, number of viewers after only the Olympic Games and the Football World Cup. SEVE was arguably the tournaments greatest ever player - his partnership with Olazabal, legendary and his captaincy in 1997 unmatched in terms of intensity, passion and commitment. The endearing image of Seve holding Sam Ryder’s famous trophy remains one of sports great moments and the tournament itself holds many of sports most infamous, memorable, charming and emotional memories. The History of the Ryder Cup.

Ryder Cup 1929 - Moortown Golf Club, Leeds

(Left) The score board and the incredible buzz around the match itself. (Right): The car showroom trophy display.

The second Ryder Cup match took place in blustery April conditions, with 10,000 fans flocking to Leeds each day to see the famous Americans in action. The US team were forced to bring their old hickory-shafted clubs as their modern steel versions were still illegal. The US began well, winning the foursomes 2½-1½, but the tide turned in the singles, not least in the match between the two skippers. George Duncan, the British captain, overheard his opposite number Walter Hagen telling Gene Sarazen he would be guaranteed a point when he faced Duncan in the singles. Outraged, Duncan went out and won the 36-hole contest 10&8. Hagen recovered well enough to go on win The Open Championship at Muirfield a fortnight later, but Britain won the Ryder Cup 7-5 and the competition was well and truly underway.

All Pictures courtesy of Moortown GC

(far left) Samuel Ryder presenting the 1927 trophy to the victorious Great Britain Team.

Ryder Cup 1933 & 1937- Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club, Lancashire All Pictures courtesy of S & A GC

Above: 1933 Ryder Cup, P Aliss & G Sarazen driving. Right: the 1937 Ryder Cup 1st Tee Far Right: Sam Ryder, J.H Taylor & W Hager

J.H Taylor, Britain's first non-playing captain, was a rigid disciplinarian and did not get on at all well with the flamboyant Walter Hagen, who almost accidentally hit him with a practice swing on the first tee. The Ryder Cup eventually came down to the last contest on the course, between Herman Densmore Shute and Sid Easterbrook.

The 1937 match proved to be the final Ryder Cup before the intervention of the Second World War, with the 1939 event, planned for Florida, cancelled. It was, in fact, the first time a visiting team had walked off with the trophy in the tournament's brief history, but there could have been quite a different ending to the story at the Lancashire links. Sarazen's single hole victory over Percy Aliss came courtesy of a birdie two at the 15th, where his tee shot landed in the lap of a woman spectator and bounced back onto the green as she stood up to shake it off.

RYDER CUP HERITAGE AND HISTORY

Ryder Cup 1949 - Ganton Golf Club, Yorkshire All Pictures courtesy of Ganton GC

The Americans proved their 1937 victory at Southport and Ainsdale was no fluke by registering their first successive Ryder Cup win in Britain. Only Dai Rees and Jimmy Adams got the better of the Americans in the singles, who finished with a flourish. The first tangible signs of tension between the teams surfaced in 1949 when US skipper Ben Hogan complained about the clubs being used by the Brits. Hogan may well have had a point because the British players were indeed instructed to file down prohibited club-face grooves before the match. A sign of things to come?

Left: The US (1949) team Above: Vardon & Ted Ray

Ryder Cup 1953 - Wentworth Golf Club, Surrey During a match between Bobby Jones and Samuel Ryder t Wentworth in 1926, it is claimed that Jones shot an immaculate 66 with 33 shots and 33 putts, taking 33 shots going out and 33 coming in. “We should do this again," Samuel Ryder remarked later in the Wentworth bar, so he donated a trophy and a tradition was born. Wentworth went on to host the Ryder Cup in 1953 where the Voice of Golf Peter Alliss lost a crucial singles to hand America victory by 6½ to 5½ . 22-year-old Peter Alliss was only one down against Jim Turnesa and in a good position on the 18th. However, he took four shots from the fringe of the green and lost his match, saying afterwards: "I made an awful bodge of it and that was that."

Ryder Cup 1957 - Lindrick Golf Club, Yorkshire Picture courtesy of Lindrick & file image

After a predictable start that saw the Americans take the foursomes 3-1, British skipper Dai Rees held a team meeting during which Max Faulkner and Harry Weetman apparently volunteered to stand down for the singles. What followed was probably the finest day of Ryder Cup play from a Great Britain and Ireland team before the Europeans joined forces. Not only did the home side rally to take five of the seven singles, they genuinely embarrassed the visitors in several matches. Rees and Christy O'Connor had 7&6 victories, while Eric Brown won a fiery encounter with Tommy Bolt 4&3. Bolt was furious with the crowd and later claimed they were the worst in the world. "I guess you won but I did not enjoy it one bit," the American said afterwards. "And nor would I after the licking I have just given you," Brown replied. Dai Rees at the 1957 Ryder Cup Tournament (Right): The programme

RYDER CUP HERITAGE AND HISTORY

Ryder Cup 1961- Royal Lytham, Lancashire Royal Lytham saw the format of the Ryder Cup change for the first time, with the number of points at stake doubling to 24 and all matches played over 18 holes instead of 36. The idea came from Britain's Lord Brabazon, and there was a feeling that the shorter matches might give the underdogs more chance to spring a surprise. In the event, the changes did nothing but increase the Americans' margin of victory. Debutant Arnold Palmer gave a sign of things to come by contributing three-and-a-half points and, despite a late rally by Great Britain and Ireland in the final afternoon's singles with three wins from the last four contests, the US domination showed no sign of ending.

Ryder Cup 1965- Royal Birkdale, Lancashire The home side made an uncharacteristically good start, sharing the foursomes and keeping pace with the visitors to trail just 9-7 going into the decisive singles. However, it was in the singles that the Americans showed their strength. Britain would have reclaimed the Ryder Cup comfortably had all the matches been played over nine holes, but when the pressure moments arrived, it was the Americans who held their nerve. The US team mastered the local conditions far better then the Brits and skipper Byron Nelson saw victory all but assured as his first four players came back with a point each. Tony Lema was the star performer with five wins out of a possible six.

Ryder Cup 1969- Royal Birkdale, Lancashire Although the previous few tournaments were one sided with the Americans dominating, the 69â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ryder Cup perhaps symbolises everything that is great about sportsmanship and the Ryder Cup itself. It came down to the last hole of the last match between new British hope Tony Jacklin and the formidable Jack Nicklaus. On their way down the final fairway the American called out: "How do you feel Tony?" Jacklin replied: "Bloody awful." Nicklaus played the better hole and sank a four-foot putt, leaving Jacklin a three-footer to force the first ever tie in the Ryder Cup. The American then made one of the great sporting gestures, picking up his opponent's ball marker rather than forcing Jacklin to putt out. He said: "I don't think you would have missed that Tony, but I didn't want to give you the chance." Nicklaus incurred the wrath of US skipper Sam Snead for his decision. British skipper Eric Brown had earlier instructed his players not to look for American balls if they landed in the rough, and during one of the four-balls on the second day the captains had to come out and calm down the warring players.

Ryder Cup 1973- Muirfield, Scotland Scotland played host to the Ryder Cup for the first time in 1973. The great Bernard Gallacher and Brian Barnes impressed together, winning maximum points, but then disaster struck. Gallacher contracted food poisoning, with Peter Butler having to step in at the 11th hour. The replacement did make his mark by becoming the first player to strike a hole-in-one in the Ryder Cup. However, the Americans fought back strongly and Butler and Barnes were unable to repeat the team's heroics of day one, with Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf in dominant form.

Ryder Cup 1977- Royal Lytham, Lancashire England's Nick Faldo provided some rare inspiration for the Brit's, battling through glandular fever to win his three rubbers. But changes were afoot. This was America's 20th Ryder Cup victory and, possibly getting bored with their inferior opposition, discussions were pursued to allow other players from continental Europe to be involved. Jack Nicklaus was particularly keen for a change and the original Ryder Cup agreement was subsequently amended. All eyes were on Seve after his 1976 breakthrough and the tournament was about to spring into life! Nick Faldoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s debut Ryder Cup

RYDER CUP HERITAGE AND HISTORY

Ryder Cup 1981 - Walton Heath, Surrey The 1981 Ryder Cup is possibly more famous for Seve Ballesteros’ controversial non-inclusion. It was argued that he had played too much golf on the American Tour. The 1981 US team, however is still considered to be one of the best line-ups ever seen in the tournament - between them, the players had won 36 Major championships. Lee Trevino, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Tom Kite, Ben Crenshaw to name but a few were just too experienced and too good on the day . Bernhard Langer, Canizares and Manuel Pinero made their Ryder Cup debuts. The victorious US team of 1981

Ryder Cup 1985 - The Belfry, West Midlands The Ryder Cup trophy was prized from the Americans' grasp by a European team boasting the likes of Masters champion Bernhard Langer, Open winner Sandy Lyle, Ian Woosnam and Nick Faldo. The Americans had started well on the first day, claiming three of the four foursomes with Lanny Wadkins and Raymond Floyd impressing in two wins. But on the second day, the pendulum began to swing towards the Europeans. Seve Ballesteros was in defiant mood, claiming his first two points playing alongside compatriot Manuel Piñero. Pinero, Lyle, Langer and the inexperienced Paul Way all won their rubbers and sensed an historic victory. It was down to Sam Torrance to secure the triumph. The Scot was facing US Open champion Andy North and fell three holes behind. Torrance fought back until it was neck-and-neck going to the 18th and, after North's ball found water, Torrance birdied with an 18-footer. The emotional Scot, who had been in tears before the putt, raised his arms in a signal which said the Ryder Cup was back in European hands.

Lee Trevino embraces Seve 1985

Ryder Cup 1989 - The Belfry, West Midlands The contest in 1989 ended in stalemate for only the second time in the tournament's history. Following back-to-back victories for Europe, the hype preceding the event was immense. The build-up and competitive spirit was certainly fuelled by the American captain Raymond Floyd, who said his team comprised "the 12 greatest players in the world". Nothing could separate these two battling giants on the second day, but it was the Spanish duo of Seve Ballesteros and Jose-Maria Olazábal who excelled. They were the only pairing to claim two victories during the day.

Spain’s awesome duo. Seve and Olazábal - 1989

Photo: Phil Inglis

Ryder Cup 1993 - The Belfry, West Midlands Following the bad feeling between the two camps at Kiawah Island in 1991, the choice of mild-mannered Tom Watson as the new American captain was welcomed in 1993. He swiftly met with the great European skipper Bernard Gallacher and a new amiable spirit returned to the Ryder Cup. Bernhard Langer and Seve Ballesteros had asked they be rested and Gallacher agreed with the idea of keeping them fresh for the final day's singles. The Americans were not to be denied this win however despite all best efforts with Raymond Floyd claiming three birdies on the back nine against Olazábal to seal America's victory. There was also a memorable halved match involving Nick Faldo and Paul Azinger, which saw the British golfer claim a hole-in-one. This did, however demonstrate how far Europe had progressed that narrowly losing to a great US team was so disappointing and not an acceptable or inevitable fate. Seve 1993

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RYDER CUP HERITAGE AND HISTORY

Ryder Cup 1997 - Valderrama, Spain

Ryder Cup 2001*/ 2002 - The Belfry, West Midlands A victorious Sam Torrance and Colin Montgomerie (2002)

Europe's underdogs produced one of the most outstanding singles displays in recent Ryder Cups to comprehensively beat the United States. With the scores at 8-8 after the fourballs and foursomes, Europe captain Sam Torrance took a big risk by putting his best players out first on the final day. But the gamble paid off handsomely. Colin Montgomerie produced arguably the greatest performance of his professional career with a 5&4 thrashing of Scott Hoch. The biggest surprise came in the match between Welshman Phillip Price and world number two Phil Mickelson. Price's 25-foot putt on the 16th green sealed a 3&2 victory and sparked jubilant celebrations. However, it was Irishman Paul McGinley's half point against Jim Furyk that handed Europe the trophy. McGinley celebrated by throwing himself into the lake at the 18th, draped in the Irish flag. Europe's players reserved their post-competition thanks for captain Sam Torrance. The Scot though reserved his for the players. "It had nothing to do with me. I led the boys to water, and they drank copiously," he said. *2001 Tournament postponed due to 9/11

All Pictures courtesy of Valderrama GC, & ÂŠ phil Sheldon, Zeke McCabe & Jeff kelly

It was the first time the European team had played outside of the British isles as Seve Ballesteros captained the team in his native Spain. This was also the match that marked Tiger Woods' Ryder Cup debut. Faldo set a string of records at Valderrama, with the most Ryder Cup points and appearances now to his name. Ballesteros courted controversy with his early selections as Ian Woosnam and Darren Clarke were both deemed surplus to requirements on day one, as was Johansson the following day. However, no one could dispute the captain's decisions as Europe moved into a five-point lead at the end of the second day. Europe were almost home and dry, though not surprisingly the Americans had other ideas and won the singles 8-4 in stunning fashion. European victory was assured when Colin Montgomerie continued his unbeaten run in Ryder Cup singles matches with a halve against Scott Hoch.

RYDER CUP HERITAGE AND HISTORY

Ryder Cup 2006 - The K Club - Ireland The fabulous Kildare (or K-Club) in Ireland played host to the 2006 Ryder Cup and Europe strolled to a 18½-9½ victory over America in the 36th Ryder Cup. Captain Ian Woosnam sent Northern Ireland's Clarke out in the seventh match with a view to him possibly holing the decisive putt and completing a remarkable comeback from personal tragedy. Tragically, Clarke had lost his wife , Heather to cancer & needed a captain's wildcard to make the side. He received an emotional reception on the 1st tee on Friday and was in tears again as the crowd saluted him after a 3&2 win over Zach Johnson. But such was Europe's dominance in the singles that the crucial blow fell to Stenson in the match behind him. "It's very emotional. I just can't say enough about my team, they have played absolutely fantastic," said Woosnam. American captain Tom Lehman said: "I need to tip my hat completely to the European team. Our team came very ready, but maybe we weren't ready enough."

Clarke's emotional triumph at the K Club still captures hearts

All Pictures courtesy of The K-Club

Ryder Cup 2010 - Celtic Manor, Wales Celtic Manor hosted the 2010 Ryder Cup , providing the biggest sporting event ever held in Wales. Typically Welsh weather, however, meant that for the first time in history the Ryder Cup was forced to finish on Monday. More than 35,000 fans duly turned up to watch a dominant European Team once again prove victorious. It certainly wasn’t an easy victory - and an impassioned Colin Montgomerie, proudly captaining his team is said to have called Severiano Ballesteros and played the Spaniard on a speakerphone to focus and motivate his team. It is said that such was Seve’s passion, Colin could not stop Seve from continuing with a speech that threatened to run over the match times! With inspiration such as this however, Monty proved victorious leading his troops to a 14 ½ - 13 ½ Margin and dedicating the victory to his great friend Seve Ballesteros. The loudest cheer was saved for a Giant picture of Seve that was paraded to the adoring crowds.

Perhaps the fitting end to a most illustrious and special Ryder Cup Career for the great Seve Ballesteros.

Left to right: Miguel Jimenez, The scoreboard showing Europe’s dominance A rainbow falls over Celtic manor on the last day.

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Golf clubs, courses guides and history

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As part of this golfing hand book and celebration of the great Seve, we have hand selected the very finest, most breathtaking, challenging and top golf clubs and courses that you simply have to play! These include various Ryder Cup Host Clubs, Courses that Seve himself designed, courses where Seve won some of his historic tournaments or played many of his memorable shots or simply courses that reflected the spirit and style of play that made the great man as cherished as he is. You can mark your scores at the end of the book together with the date and any notes of the course itself. Page 51 Page 55 Page 57 Page 61 Page 63 Page 65 Page 71 Page 73 Page 75 Page 79 Page 83 Page 85 Page 91 Page 95 Page 99 Page 103 Page 107 Page 109 Page 111 Page 115

The Shire London, Herts, Moortown GC, Royal Lytham & St Annes, The K Club, Ireland, Old Head of Kinsale, Ireland, Valderrama, Sotogrande, Spain, Kennermer GC, Southport & Ainsdale GC, Crans Sur Sierre, Switzerland, Vasatorps GC, Sweden, Ganton Golf Club, Woburn Golf Club, The Heritage Golf Resort & Spa, Ireland, Golf Club Gut Larchenhof, Germany, Walton Heath Golf Club, The Belfry, Brocket Hall, Herts, Lindrick Golf Club, Royal Birkdale, Wentworth Golf Club, Surrey

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the shire london Seveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only English course design

“I was waiting for an opportunity to create a golf complex with a course which looked and played like I thought it should” SEVE BALLESTEROS

he Shire London is set in the outskirts of London, just off the M25 set amongst 220 acres of stunning English countryside. Upon arriving, you are greeted with the famous silhouette of Seve leading into the club itself, proudly confirming this is Seve’s only designed course in England. Tony Menai Davis, the owner & visionary behind the club makes a point in welcoming you the second you catch his eye and immediately you can feel the influence of Seve and the warmth this carries you in with. The outstanding course is a true reflection of the challenges and game that Seve himself enjoyed (and designed personally) as the course he would like to play. Indeed, the charismatic owner was quick to point out that Seve insisted upon various changes and adaptations to the course, layout and even tree formations so that it was “perrfet” in his own inimitable style. The Shire is fast becoming a focal point for those golfers who are looking to extend themselves and move away from a traditional course. It varies in conditions and set ups so that you are taken on a journey on every hole. Maximum variety for the complete challenge.

This really feels like Seve’s course, the water is more than just a back drop, the bunkers varied and continue to surprise. The creek almost comes “out to bite you” as Seve intended along with his design team! The course was developed and built from a love and passion that was hoped would appeal to the challenges of golfers. This wasn’t business it was personal. And in spite of the varied and numerous challenges that faced the Shire, they persevered & have created something very special. Seve has signed his name to this course with more than just his branding. A bunker was moved and ground shifted so that the look would be pleasing, whilst at the same time, you could exploit your full itinerary of shots and shot making skills in (trying to) avoid them! Pure Seve. The Shire London respects their responsibility in presenting Seve’s course & maintain it immaculately. Warm smiles from the pro shop to the restaurant put you at your ease. Seve was proud to call Tony Menai Davis a friend - which brought a tear to his eye as he recalled various anecdotes to me & showed me Seve’s own book thanking him, he too was proud of the Shire London. 52 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

ABOVE LEFT & ABOVE RIGHT: THE INITIAL PLANNING. THIS WAS SEVE’S FIRST COURSE DESIGN IN ENGLAND, & IT SIMPLY HAD TO BE ‘PERFECT!’ BELOW: THE COURSE AS IT STANDS TODAY, DEVELOPING AND GROWING AS SEVE INTENDED AS ONE OF ENGLAND’S MOST STUNNING & CHALLENGING GOLF COURSES

53 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

www.theshirelondon.com Bookings: +44 (0) 208 440 4009

The Shire London is a unique course layout consisting of three distinctive styles; links, parkland and American. Offering six par 3's, six par 4's and six par 5's - the masters course is a test for any level of ability. It measures over 7000 yards and is quite impressive to the eye. The design is impeccable, condition perfect and Excitement is what you would expect from the great Seve. No consecutive holes have the same par, and the course combines, parkland, American and linksstyles as mentioned above to test all types of game. Twelve holes incorporate water hazards, so maintaining a score cannot be taken for granted & is a constant battle on every shot. The overriding design idea was Seve’s alone and this was to reward adventurous golf and for a course to favour the brave. Your round will begin with a 160 yard par three onto an island green that is sure to rattle your nerves at the very start! The fifth is a links feel with gorse and shrubs that flank the fairway & a double green awaits you at the end of a 600 yard+ hole from the emerald tee. The 7th is possibly most visitors favourite with another island tee - it is quite breathtaking in its beauty and its audacity! The eighteenth is a tough par four with an immaculate green surrounded by an ‘S’ shape lake, which sums up the entire course - brave, charismatic, endearing, competitive and surprising. If you wasn’t aware Seve designed the course, you would probably guess it after your first round! It truly is as Seve intended, legacy through perfection.

Off course facilities include an immaculate state of the art gymnasium, fine dining facility and a panoramic view from the superb bar over the course, families are made to feel welcome and a superb golf academy welcomes the cream of talent from the age of 6. TOP LEFT: THE STUNNING COURSE SIMPLY HAS TO BE SEEN TOP RIGHT: SEVE AT THE ENTRANCE ABOVE: THE 7TH CREEK LEFT: THE 18th AT DUSK

www.theshirelondon.com Bookings: +44 (0) 208 440 4009 54 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

Moortown Golf Club was formed in 1909 and the present clubhouse was opened in 1915. By the mid-1920’s the course assumed the layout, which was to exist without major alterations for over sixty years. Even in those early days Moortown’s popularity among professionals was growing through the Yorkshire Evening News Professional Tournament, but it was the staging of The Ryder Cup in 1929 which focused the attention of international media on the Club. There is no doubt that this event was a major factor in establishing Moortown’s worldwide reputation as a Championship golf course together with the course design of Dr Alister MacKenzie. The founders invited Dr MacKenzie to visit the site which he did in October 1908, coming to the conclusion that it would make a fine course and offering to aid the founders in its design. MacKenzie duly obliged and designed the course for the sum of £3,000. In 1910 the course was completed and was ready to play. Moortown is a classic moorland golf course, with lovely peaty turf that gives a spring in each step. The fairways appear wide and many are flanked by stunning silver birch trees, gorse and heather. Over the years, many significant visitors, as well as those taking part in major Championships have graced the club. Traditionally over the years the England and Australia Test Cricket sides, when contesting the Ashes at Headingley, have played Moortown on their rest day. Features of the original course at Moortown which received much adulation were the bunkers, being perfect examples of artificial hazards imitating natural seaside contours. Secondly, the change in green design, where Dr. MacKenzie adopted the larger, undulating seaside greens have also created such a memorable course. 55 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

The 1929 Ryder Cup was the second tournament after the Worcester Golf Club’s inaugural 1927 event and resulted in a home win, beating our American cousins by 7 points to 5. Walter Hagen (US) and George Duncan (GB) captained the teams. Moortown measures over 6,500 yards from regular tees, but requires accuracy and finesse rather than long hitting. The fairways are deceptively narrow and the rough is punishing - make the most of the short par 5 opening hole as the following holes (2nd & 3rd) are extremely tough par 4’s. The 10th is MacKenzie’s signature hole, a par 3 set on 158 yards named ‘Gibraltar’. This is an excellent challenge and worth the visit all by itself! Although rich tradition and heritage seeps through every part of the club & course, it certainly isn’t old fashioned or ‘fuddy-duddy’. It is a real pleasure to walk the historical paths and play real golf. The reception and atmosphere is welcoming and the food & drink excellent. A must play course for any serious golfer and certainly a highlight to tick off in any golfing career.

Tel: 0113 268 6521

Above Left: 1929 Ryder Cup Scoreboard & The Ryder Cup Car Showroom Trophy Display

Above: 9th Hole

Tel: 0113 268 6521 http://www.moortown-golf-club.co.uk Below:

The magnificent 12th Hole

56 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

Royal Lytham & St Annes Bernard Darwin

ALL PHOTOS: ALAN C. BIRCH

oyal Lytham & St Annes Golf club was founded in 1886, its Seve Ballesteros hit just one fairway from the tee on current course created in 1897 and officially opened by the Saturday and only nine in total over 72 holes of golf. His Marquis of Lorne in 1898 - the Clubhouse similarly celebrated erratic driving and brilliant short game were epitomised in this its Centenary in 1998. Royal Lytham & St Annes is a true links victory. Inconsistent rounds of 73, 65 and 75 left him two course, with sandy soil and the wind blowing in from the Irish shots off the lead heading into the final day. He even drove his Sea - some of the trees have grown to permanently lean to the ball into a car park on the par-four 16th with just two holes side such is the punishing force. left to play. In 1926, the course staged Bobby Jones’ dramatic entry into the minds of the British public. He was to become a legend, but Lytham was his first Open title, achieved against the finest-ever golfing field. Jones shook off Al Watrous, who had been two "I don't aim for the rough, it just goes there," Ballesteros said. "My caddie tell me close the eyes and hit it. Maybe I strokes ahead with five holes to play. go into fairway." Today, you can see the mashie-iron Jones used for his miracle shot, hanging below his painting, overlooking the scene of his triumph. A plaque sits in a bunker to the left of the 17th fairway to commemorate the historic shot. Bobby Jones captured With Nicklaus one shot behind and looking at a possible birdie 13 of the 21 major championships he entered. He retired at 28, on the 18th, the drama reached a crescendo. Ballesteros hit a leaving observers able only to guess at how many more he would sand wedge out of the dust to 15 feet and canned the putt as have won. Nicklaus fell away. The crowd rose to acclaim the Spaniard’s It’s one of the premier links courses in the world, host to ten brilliant win and history recalls with a smile the now famous Open Championships (so far!), two Ryder Cups & numerous celebration. other major tournaments including the Women's & Seniors Open With his broken English, endearing smile and swashbuckChampionships. ling golf, Ballesteros announced himself as the next big thing The 1961 Ryder Cup was the first to be held on an Open in July 1979, winning the first of his five majors, aged just 22. Championship course, with Henry Longhurst describing it as His victory made him the youngest champion for 86 years “the finest exhibition ever put before the public”. Of 25 finishes, and also the first European to win the tournament since ten went to the final green, sending the 35,000 spectators, who Frenchman Arnaud Massy claimed victory in 1907. had enjoyed glorious October weather, home happy, despite the Ballesteros was back in 1988, with the same clubs and the American win. same clothes. The final round was carried over to the Monday In 1977, American dominance of the famous trophy of after severe flooding and Seve shot a course-record 65 to win, Samuel Ryder stretched to 20 years. With a masterful team that which he acknowledged as the best round of his life. included Nicklaus, Floyd, Wadkins and Irwin, the USA routed The famous beast of a course at Royal Lytham & St Britain and Ireland 12½-7½. It was the last time the Cup would Annes was once again tamed by the mercurial Spaniard - the be held with a team representing Britain and Ireland. path of legends was suitably joined by possibly its greatest Which is almost an irony given Seve Ballesteros made his icon and the course played fairly as it always promises to do. Ryder Cup debut in 1979 - the same year he came, saw and 2012 will once again set the stage for this incredible conquered the famous links course of Royal Lytham & St Annes. course to challenge and defy, then embrace a champion. This This was to be the first of his famous Open victories. During the Universally-praised friendly club where members mingle final round of the 1979 Open, Ballesteros forged a new path to happily with their guests and visitors will crown another, just glory. He hooked left, he sliced right, he dipped and detoured one year after King Seve has left us. Nowhere more apt than through sand and scrub. the spiritual home of those legendary shots. 58 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

PHOTOS: ALAN C BIRCH

ALL PHOTOS: ALAN C. BIRCH

In addition to the world-class golf course and rich, rich history, the off course facilities are second to none. Dining, is a pleasure with excellent food and reasonably priced, quality wines, spirits and beers from around the world. Uniquely Royal Lytham offers accommodation in the Dormy House with splendid views of the Course. There are 16 rooms and disabled access too. The famous golf correspondent and writer Pat Ward Thomas stayed on a number of occasions and described it as “the finest example of a Dormy House in my experience. Corporate Days at historic Royal Lytham (in particular VIP days) are not so much an event as an experience. From the friendly reception to the prize presentation it’s a day never to be forgotten. A VIP day costs £18,000 for up to 72 people, or a Shotgun Start day is priced at £24,000, which includes bacon baps and coffee on arrival, a golf clinic with our Pro, use of the practice ground, a snack lunch and an 18 Hole Competition on the Championship Course, a presentation pack of golf balls, tees & course planner, our Halfway House open throughout the Competition, Dinner with wine in our historic Clubroom and prizes comprising 4 Royal Lytham engraved crystal glasses and four decanters.

Whether you just want a round of golf, a longer stay in the Dormy House or a Corporate day, Royal Lytham delivers on all fronts. You will be made to feel very welcome and feel completely at home at Royal Lytham. Despite its 1930’s tag as a beast (even a just one) from Bernard Darwin, Royal Lytham is far from being such and is conversely the most welcoming, hospitable and pleasing host you could hope for - the tag however with regards the course itself I’m afraid would have to stick - but you wouldn’t have it any other way.

Tel: +44 (0)1253 724206 Email: bookings@royallytham.org

http://www.royallytham.org 59 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

A Resort for all The Heritage Golf & Spa Resort is a luxury 5 star resort nestled in the charming village of Killenard, County Laois. Close to ancient celtic sites, serene country villages, monastic round towers and a county steeped in myths and legends. The Resort boasts a magnificent 18 hole Seve Ballesteros & Jeff Howes designed Championship Golf Course, a wonderful Resort Spa featuring leading product range Pevonia Botanica & Voya, a variety of accommodation styles from hotel guestrooms & suites, to self catering on course suite apartments & golf homes. Also located on the resort are a variety of Restaurants & Bars to choose from, a 5km Walking Track, Outdoor Bowls, Health Club with Leisure Pool, Tennis Court, Cinema, Children's Games Room, 9 hole par 3 Course & Golf Academy. Only minutes from the M7 & easily accessible from all parts of Ireland.

Killenard, County Laois, Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 57 86 45500 Email: info@theheritage.com

IBPA AWARDS - Winner "Best Spa 2009" â&#x20AC;˘ Pevonia European Spa of The Year â&#x20AC;˘ Golf Digest Top 5 Parkland Golf Courses in

K Club The K-Club (or Kildare Club) hosted the Ryder Cup in 2006, when European golf was in the midst of enjoying a significant advantage to that of our American cousins. The Smurfit course is an Inland links that has already been described as the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest inland golf course and the best hole is undoubtedly the stunning par 5 7th measuring 606 yards. The Palmer course (as was used for the Ryder Cup) just simply cannot be compared to almost any other. The K Club is situated within 550 acres of stunning countryside. The North (or Palmer) course, was designed by Arnold Palmer and ready for play in 1991. The River Liffey meanders through the entire course and becomes hazardous - especially the 8th hole where it follows the entire left side of the fairway. The holes are designed to shock and to intimidate on occasion. The 7th hole is over 600 yards and double-doglegs past virtually every obstacle, from trees, rough, water & bunkers, then the green itself is hidden and fiercely protected by the river Laffey. The 16th is a card wrecker, even though it measures a mere 400 yards, it requires an accurate approach to another water protected hole. 61 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

Just two examples of what to expect on the Palmer. The final preparation note however, is.. though it is tough, nothing is more rewarding than overcoming the many challenges and scoring well. During the 2006 Ryder Cup, this course welcomed the Americans over for what turned into a virtual European master class. Europe beat the Americans by 18 1/2 to 9 1/2 equalling the record margin.. Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest ever hosted sporting event was an over whelming success and both the club, teams, players and nation itself can be exceptionally proud.

62 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

Can you keep your

HEAD?

No trip to one of the Meccas of links golf - southwest Ireland can possibly be complete with out taking on one of the most ambitious golf courses ever built.

The site of Old Head Golf Links is virtually an island off the tip of Kinsale, and the dramatic topography and proximity to the ocean makes it, without doubt, one of, if not the, most striking golf courses in the world. If Lahinch is Ireland's St Andrews then this is Ireland’s Pebble Beach. Experiencing Old Head as a member inscribes you into a history that is deep in tradition & culture. Pride is taken in offering members and their guests the ultimate experience in golf with a seamless blend of Irish hospitality. The Clubhouse, with its refined and relaxed ambience, now includes 15 luxurious suites which complement the magnificent beauty and setting of Old Head Golf Links. The Old Head seaview suites feature a blend of opulence & comfort. Offering magnificent balcony views, all suites are adorned in a style that evokes a feeling of pure indulgence, stunningly furnished & created. The stylishly appointed Presidential Suite features a separate living room, and master bedroom. The spacious marble bathroom ensures that guests will enjoy the finest comforts and the ultimate in relaxation. The exquisite suite surveys the historical lighthouse and 18th green with breathtaking views of the Celtic Sea. The ultimate in pampering and rejuvenation the Old Head Thermal Spa offers a place for members & residents to unwind & restore. Surrounded by gentle interiors the Thermal Spa provides the perfect escape from the stresses and strains of modern living. Old Head also offers a range of beauty care and therapeutic treatments for ladies and gentlemen. These treatments are available to members & residents & are by prior appointment. The Old Head Gym also provides superior life fitness equipment to both members and residents. 63 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

All this luxury and the spectacular setting of Old Head is within striking distance of many of the renowned golf courses of South West Ireland. The 6,650 yard (championship length, 7,121 yards), par 72 Old Head course is configured as two returning loops containing five par 3's, five par 5's and eight par 4's, with nine holes that play alongside the cliff tops. Surrounded by the ocean on all sides and commanding the most spectacular views from virtually every part. Actually it’s not situated on an island but is precariously perched on a 220-acre promontory shaped like a swollen thumb jutting out to sea. It is connected to the mainland by a very narrow strip of land. Remnants of castles, churches, and dwellings built by monks during medieval times are abundant & add to the atmosphere. The course is the result of a project initiated by wealthy Irish brothers, John and Patrick O’Connor. They purchased the land over two decades ago for less than £1,000 an acre & began construction of the course in the early 1900’s. The terrain is so close to the rocks & ocean, there is a rumour in circulation that the farmer sold the land because he was tired of losing sheep over the cliffs! The course, completed in 1997, was designed by Joe Carr, Paddy Merrigan, Ron Kirby, Liam Higgins etc. What they and the O’Connors have built needs to be seen and played to be believed. Nine of the holes play alongside the cliff tops surrounded by the ocean on all sides & commanding the most spectacular views from virtually every part. From the second tee you can look down into a cove within which a German U-boat lurked before torpedoing the Lusitania, in 1915.

The Old Head Course is surrounded by the sea. Top Left: The Presidential suite and Thermal Spa A farmer sold the land as: “he was fed up loosing sheep over the side of the cliffs!”

Your score might sink without trace too if the wind is blowing. As with many links courses, though, if the wind is absent, it’s a different matter - although the vistas alone can make your knees knock regardless of the conditions. There may be stiffer or technically finer tests of golf on your book, but is there a course that will stick more vividly in your memory? I doubt it. There have been complaints from certain purists about the manufactured quality of the course, the fact it caters too much to visiting Americans, that it’s too expensive & it should never have been built on this historic piece of rock (there’s a 5,000-yr-old Druid’s burial ground on the 10th hole). But as a golfer you cannot deny the sheer drama and beauty of the place & it’s hard not to agree with the sentiment expressed by Joe Carr, one of the designers and three times British Amateur Champion: “The Old Head of Kinsale, as a golf links, will in my estimation rate with the great golf courses in the world. Its location, its scenic reality & spectacular terrain remind me of Cypress Point and Pebble Beach, two of America’s most famous courses. To be associated with the design of this project is to me the thrill of a lifetime. I see The Old Head as a golfers paradise & it has the potential of being the eight wonder of the world, in golfing terms.”

Tel: (+353) (0) 21 4778 444

www.oldhead.com/

64 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

Golf Club Gut Lärchenhof is situated in North Germany, near Düsseldorf & Köln & about 30-40 km from the Dutch border. It’s the only Jack Nicklaus designed course in Germany & a real gem. It was opened to a crescendo of accolades in 1996 & widely loved for its innovative play and challenge whilst retaining a German character essential to its charm. The prestigious German masters were held just one year later in 1997 and went on to be one of the richest and most popular golf tournaments on the European tour - attracting all of the top names. Previous winners of German tournaments include the great Severiano Ballesteros, winning the German Open in 1988 and the German Masters in 1994. So this new club had a great history and tradition to follow in. Bernhard Langer, Colin Montgomerie, Sergio Garcia, Padraig Harrington to name but a mere few have played and won the German Masters to a chorus of widespread approval and love for this Nicklaus course. The course is set along 6,356 metres (approx 7,000 yards) and its greens are simply pristine! The 241 yard 8th hole is one of the longest par 3’s in the game and is as challenging as it is far away! The green is protected by a horse-shoe shaped bunker, just waiting to capture way-ward drives. This is a modern course, which has deliberately moved away from standard course design. Golf Club Gut Lärchenhof simply has to be played to experience both the friendly atmosphere, playing within a ‘stadium-feeling’ course, with its wide and expansivelayouts but also to confront the challenge of playing on such a stage which has traditionally been extremely competitive for pro’s and amateurs alike. The club house is nothing short of spectacular and houses a Michelin starred restaurant to enjoy & find pleasure from after a hard round of golf as well as two other outstanding eateries. The service is second to none where a friendly & welcoming atmosphere will make any visit a moment to savour and remember. 95

SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

Left: Top left : Above & set:

The magnificent club house The 8th Aerial Views

SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

There has never been such a charismatic golfer at Gut L채rchenhof such as Seve. Seve played continuously from 1998 to 2002 at the Linde German Masters at Gut L채rchenhof.

Gut Larchenhof e.V. Hahnenstrasse Pulheim, North Rhine-Westphalia Germany, 50250 Tel: +49 (0) 2238 - 9 23 90-0. www.gutlaerchenhof.de/ 97

SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

Valderrama A feast of magnificence Spanish Style Valderrama Golf Club, Spain's most famous golf course, is home to the Volvo Masters and has hosted World Golf Championships as well as, of course, the 1997 Ryder Cup. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Snr and opened in 1985, the golf course is an exacting examination of shotmaking, with tight treelined doglegs and adverse cambers. It can also be mentioned in the same breath as Augusta in terms of presentation and attention to detail. VALDERRAMA plots its way through the Sotogrande hills and in between tightly clustered umbrella pines. Famous for the 1997 Ryder Cup and numerous Volvo Masters tournaments.

The course today meets the challenges created by advances in equipment; and affectionately maintains Robert Trent Jones Snr’s 1984 revamp that turned Valderrama into the finest course in Europe. The philosophy of Valderrama is that the course is a living, growing ‘thing’, that the trees and bushes change the nature of a hole as they change with the seasons and also with age themselves. The course itself stands in the middle of a cork forest and as such the height and placement alters the very playability of the course as well as the overall look and feel of it. In 2008 the course was re-worked so that the modern driver was applicable, that every hole retained the same challenge it did at the courses inception, together with its original pin positions, the height and density of the trees were examined and modified where necessary and to re-examine the angles of the dog-legs to ensure the course retained its challenge.

65 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

Kingsbarns creator Kyle Phillips was responsible for these changes in the same way he had done so in Virginia on another Robert Trent Jones Snr. Design.. The 1st, 13th and 16th holes were lengthened so that when played into the wind – or even with no wind – the golfer would need to use a driver and not a fairway metal or long iron. Trent Jones’ original philosophy for Valderrama was based around hole angles and obstacle positioning, and the changes will remain faithful to that. A good example is the 16th, a par-4 dog-leg right, but with camber kicking the ball left into rough and trees. Trent Jones’ original design was for a softer dog-leg, and the angle of play has now been modified to allow more options for the player off the tee. The course is already part of golfing folklore and the Ryder Cup in 1997 perhaps enabled this great golf club to be globally recognised as one of the greatest golf clubs ever conceived. Many golf commentators believe that Valderrama Golf Club is the greatest golf course in Europe. The 1997 Ryder Cup was acknowledged as one of Seve’s greatest ever moments in golf - despite his not even playing! Seve was famous at that time for his buzzing around every hole and for being “everywhere” during that event. It is rumoured that he used underground service routes which his American counterpart wasn’t immediately informed of which enabled Seve to play an active role in several different places almost at once! The course at that time surprised many with its sheer beauty, challenge and overall quality. Its almost perfect manicured greens and fairways provide the stunning surfaces to enjoy golf at its very finest. The stunning hills and scenery give the atmosphere to relax and welcome a round of golf and the facilities provide, well, pure luxury and the very best in food, drink and service.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF VALDERRAMA & COPYRIGHT OF PHIL SHELDON PHOTO LIBRARY, ZEKE McABE & GEOFF KELLY & ARE COVERED BY THEIR RESPECTIVE COPYRIGHTS

Valderrama A feast of magnificence Spanish Style

No feature on Valderrama could possibly be complete without mention to the 1997 Ryder Cup - where Seve magnificently (and famously) Captained possibly Europe’s greatest ever Ryder Cup Team to victory over a similarly excellent US team. Seve appeared to be everywhere, playing every shot, watching every move on the course from his vantage point - the buggy - which he made his own from the first hour to the final shot. This can arguably be remembered as Spain’s Ryder Cup, Spanish players, Spanish venue & Captain - however the course of Valderrama had significantly come of age which in turn led to Spanish Golf in general becoming synonymous with quality, comfort and excellence in its own right.

TOP: SEVE IN HIS BUGGY WHERE ELSE? ABOVE LEFT: THE PRESENTATION OF THE TROPHY ABOVE: THE MOMENT OF VICTORY LEFT: THE QUITE BREATHTAKING VIEWS OF VALDERRAMA

Tel: +34 956 791 200 www.valderrama.com

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Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club is a true championship links course, with first class facilities to match. The course is set amongst the dunes on the North West coastline and is another of course designer, James Braid’s great creations. S&A (as it is widely and affectionately known), was founded in 1906, part of the great golf boom around the turn of the 20th century. Inevitably the passing of so many years has brought about changes to the course, but the traditional feel of a championship links has been retained. The club has hosted two Ryder Cup matches in 1933 and 1937 and a number of other prestigious championships including The British Ladies Open and The British Amateur. It remains a final qualifying course for The Open Championship and it has been voted by one golf magazine as among the top 50 courses in Great Britain. All the holes are of championship standard and no two are the same. However, if one had to be singled out it would, be the sixteenth. This famous hole has a great hill and bunkers, lined with railway sleepers and is a cunning trap, catching poor second shots. It is called ‘Gumbleys’, after the gentleman who spent some time in there! Like Royal Lytham, Southport and Ainsdale Golf Club begins with a par 3 – 180 yards of carry to a green surrounded by nine pot bunkers.

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The course is a magnificent test of golf, especially with the sea breeze, profusion of heather & gorse combining to provide you with a challenging & immensely enjoyable experience. The recently refurbished clubhouse also provides a splendid setting for unwinding after your round. The main lounge and patio to the front of the clubhouse provide stunning views across the course, including the 18th green and 1st tee. S&A has a very natural feel to the layout & is certainly not your traditional out & back feel or format. The fairways wind their way through gaps & valleys between the dunes & many of the greens are raised on plateaus to make your score even trickier. With over 6,836 yards from the back tees, S&A is not characteristically short either & provides a stern test for big hitters as well as the strategists & short game fans. In April 2011 the extended & remodelled par five 2nd & 16th ('Gumbley's') holes were opened for play after extensive work during the winter months & a splendid new, high tee added to, & extending, hole 17. The 16th (or Gumbley's as mentioned before) is a 506 yard monster, hit into a prevailing wind & three solid shots will be required by most to hit the green. Added to the bunkers we referred to & you really have an enjoyable (+memorable hole). The 8th too is quite an experience - a par 3 over 157 yards, requiring the most accurate drive onto the perilous raised green.

OPP PAGE BOTTOM:

1ST

LEFT TOP:

3RD

ABOVE:

4TH & 5TH HOLE CLUBHOUSE

RIGHT:

10TH, 18TH

Below:

3RD

I particularly enjoy the 7th, 8th, 16th & the 18th as all these holes require a good Judgement of distance and pinpoint accuracy in order to make par or birdie. Southport and Ainsdale should not only be played because of its rich and varied heritage and history (from not only the Ryder Cups in 1933 & 1937 and the many Championships that have graced its course), but because it is an absolutely stern test that allied to the warmest of warm welcomes from the club and members, makes this a must play course. The excellent catering, and superb selection of available wines to be enjoyed whilst taking in the extensive collections of memorabilia too make this more than a wonderful round of golf and one that I shall gladly be returning to.

Tel: 01704 578000 www.sandagolfclub.co.uk

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Wentworth One of the world’s great clubs, by Alexandra Lyon-Dean

oes Wentworth need any introduction? I believe not - it is the As one officer remarked, “Let this be their Burma Road”, the name Burma most televised course in the UK and hosts some of the top tournaments Road has stayed with the West Course ever since. As had the labyrinth of every year, including the World Matchplay, PGA Championship and the bunkers, part of the ‘secret’ HQ buried below the club. Senior Masters. As it is so familiar, when you step onto the first tee of the Seve Ballesteros called Burma Road “one of the few courses with a capacity West course you may suffer from a momentary déjà vu feeling. It will pass to extract continually the best from the best”. He won the World Matchplay at Wentworth five times, tied for the record with Gary Player who also has as you get your teeth into this challenging course. Step back; the Wentworth club at Virginia Waters just to the west of London five titles. actually has four courses, three of them 18 hole championship courses and Notable Holes a nine hole executive course. The oldest is the East course laid down in 1924 The 7308 yard par 74 West course boasts a number of notable holes. The and followed in 1926 by the best known, the West course. Both were Harry course record was set in 2010 in the third round of the BMW PGA ChampiColt originals. The final course, designed in 1990 is the Edinburgh course, onship by Robert Karlsson with a score of 62. It may stand for some time. named in honour of the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip. The East course The 2nd hole is a short 155 yard par three. From the tee you have to loft the was the venue for the inaugural Curtis Cup in 1932 and in 1926 hosted the ball over a little valley to find the green – if you fall short here you’re in friendly match between the USA and Great Britain & Ireland that was the trouble. A beautiful oak tree stands between two bunkers guarding the right forerunner of the Ryder Cup. The actual Ryder Cup was played on the West hand side so it’s a tactical play. course in 1953 and had a famously tightly contested ending with America The brutally rising 3rd is a par four at 448 yards with bunkers along the right winning by a single point. hand side of the fairway which are to be avoided with prejudice if you want Wentworth courses are typical Surrey heathland courses, scattered with to make it to the green in two shots. It is not uncommon to go to three putts patches of heather and enclosed by mature oaks, pines and silver birches that as the green is massive with three tiers to play with. belie the comparatively young age of the golf. Another par four at the 13th – or par five for ladies stands at 437 yards. The It was the first course to offer golf property alongside the fairways – a sweep to the left means the green is not visible from the tee and what looks standard feature of many new private members clubs. The West course like the best sensible shot has a crafty bunker in the way just to trip up those underwent a redesign completed in March of 2010 under the eagle eye of who have not done their homework. Ernie Els, the club touring pro. At a cost of some £6.5 million, greenside and fairway bunkers were renewed, or remodelled or replaced, 18 new The signature holes is the 17th It is a bunker-less par five stretching to 566 greens were installed to meet the exacting standards of the USPGA. The yards with a massive curve left from a narrow tee hemmed in by trees to both sides. Keeping left is the sensible option to avoid landing in the trees remodel was intended to bring the course into the 21st century where advances in equipment technology – balls & clubs, together with the increas- or out of bounds, but even then you contend with the camber that has a nasty habit of letting your balls trickle downhill with painful regularity if you ingly athletic prowess of the Pro Tour. To be honest the remodel has had some mixed reactions with some of the Tour players being dismayed by a don’t pay heed. Off the courses, the club itself offers a gracious welcome redolent of a touch of vanilla that possibly stripped away the character of the original Colt course. For the most part though it is held to be an excellently condi- bygone era with its famous castellated clubhouse overlooking the first tee. The welcome is warm and expert – this is a club that hosts many tournationed course where you tread in the footsteps of giants. ments, both Pro & corporate and it shows. The dining experience is excelThe clubhouse was requisitioned by the army during the Second World lent and the facilities over all are exceptional from the pro shop to the War and the courses were allowed to grow wild to avoid the embarrassment of enemy aircraft using the fairways as runways. Towards the end of driving ranges, putting and chipping greens, tennis and health club available the War, German POWs were brought into the clear the courses out again. for members of the club & visitors. 115 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

Marbella Club Hotel Golf Resort

Spa

Bulevar Principe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, 29600 Marbella, Spain Tel.: +34 952 82 22 11 - Fax: +34 952 82 98 84 www.marbellaclub.com

“l rate Wentworth at the very top of my list of favourite places alongside Augusta”,says Seve, “and not just because I play so well there. The Club is warm and friendly and has always treated me well. Of course I might add the West course is a complete test which Requires all the clubs in the bag. The short holes are Strong, the long holes reward the genuine long hitter & the dog-legs go both ways. You have to play shots from all kinds of lies - uphill, side hill and down hill & also know how to judge the wind swirling in the trees. For me, it is the ultimate examination.'

Seve Ballesteros

Seve at the World Match Play at Wentworth 1985 & 1984 (right) Right: Wentworth at the BMW (2011) remembering Seve There is limited accommodation in recently renovated rooms and suites that have all mod cons & the ability to stay in the clubhouse itself is a major draw with its rich history, understated elegance & quietly expert service. All in all, Wentworth is a notable addition to any golfer’s personal hall of fame & more than worth a trip. Visitors can play Monday to Thursday by prior appointment. The club and facilities are available for events – personal and corporate.

www.wentworthclub.com Reception: 01344 842201 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE 118

by Anne Mackintosh Few paintings manage to capture the essence and the soul of their subjects. The artist needs an ability to personally connect. With such a renowned subject as Seve, Anne Mackintosh absolutely had to show us his personality. She succeeded. And this is her story.

n 1997 I was commissioned to paint Seve Ballesteros. My husband Sandy and I flew to Bilbao, and not for the first time BA lost our luggage and we were delayed for several hours. Eventually we picked up a hire car and raced to Pedreña to our accommodation beside the golf course. There was no time to shower before we sped across to the Clubhouse and we turned up [on time, just !] hot and dishevelled. But where was Seve? Half an hour later, still no Seve. When I made enquires I was met with a shrug of the shoulders. This was The Head - by Anne Mackintosh Spain after all and it was the weekend! After another hour and a phone call made by It is one of the highlights of my career to have been asked to paint Seve and some kind person who took pity on us, it was clear that Seve had forgotten, and it was arranged that we to have spent time with him. He was so very special and just as charismatic as would meet the next day. The following day Seve everyone says he was." Anne Mackintosh arrived looking just like a wee boy who had lost his toy. It was abundantly clear that he would rather have This "Head" of Seve was one of the paintings resulting from the sitting at Pedreña. been elsewhere. He sat for me in one of the rooms in The artist, Anne Mackintosh has a brain tumour which fortunately is benign. As a the Clubhouse and gradually he began to thaw until consequence, Anne suffers deafness in one ear, but perhaps is able to understand there before me was the beautiful, charming man who more than most the challenges and fears as well as the courage required by those afflicted. could melt hearts. At one point I said to him " Seve I have a 250 giclee (ultra high quality prints) have been produced & £100 from the sale of confession to make. I don't play golf." With a smile each (when purchased from the artist directly) will be donated to Seve's which slowly spread over his face he replied " I think Foundation. you make a wise decision " We stayed on in Spain for a few days and one "In March 2011 Seve said of the print ' Anne's portrait of me is very good evening after dinner at his uncle's restaurant in almost like looking in a mirror! I am pleased that such a talented artist is Pedreña, we found Seve sitting outside with his uncle, supporting my Foundation. The Seve Ballesteros Foundation is working together with Cancer Research UK to beat brain cancer and I grateful that such talented not a fan in sight. He was obviously treated no differently from supporters like Anne are helping me to fight this disease' anyone else in Pedreña, which is probably why he Peter Alliss said during the BBC coverage of the Open in July 2010 ' The loved the place so much. Later that year at the Scottish Open at Loch Lomond painting by Anne Mackintosh ....it is the best likeness I think..... Well, I've never seen a better likeness of you, Seve. It's a cracker! ' Golf Club, I was watching Seve practise his putting. After hitting a ball he looked up, saw me, smiled and For details and information go to: www.annemackintoshportraits.com waved. Sadly I was on my own with no friends to witness my moment of reflected glory! Tel: +44 (0) 1360 550 263 125 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

By Alexandra Lyon-Dean LACOSTE is a name synonymous in the world with tennis but its association with golf is one that is honestly come by and longstanding. 13 times French champion and the first non British player to win the British Ladies, Simone Thion de la Chaume was the wife of tennis legend René Lacoste, founder of the brand & purveyor of the now ubiquitous cotton piqué shirt. Their daughter Catherine followed her mother’s giant footsteps into golf & at aged 19 was the World Champion with her team, and tied for first place on an individual level. She became the darling of the golf community when in 1967 she became the first amateur to win the US Ladies Golf Open aged only 22. She went on to clinch the US Amateur championship and the British Ladies in 1969. Following these huge achievements with a lifelong commitment to the game, she went on to enjoy conspicuous success all the way into her 60’s as captain of the French Senior Ladies Team. Golf heritage to this degree leaves no room for supposing the brand’s commitment to golf is not wholehearted and genuine.

“We are proud to have accompanied Seve in his successes. He was the perfect example of a LACOSTE ambassador,” Christophe Chenut, CEO of LACOSTE To underline this is the long list of players on the world stage that have been nurtured, supported and acted as ambassadors for the brand over the years. In the early 1980’s until 1990 LACOSTE formed a partnership with Seve Ballesteros, one of the most outstanding and charismatic players of the 20th century. Seve was a friend of Catherine Lacoste and represented many of the same values the brand developed over the years. Seve certainly had all of those traits in spades, and the partnership was a successful one for all parties. “We are proud to have accompanied Seve in his successes. He was the perfect example of a LACOSTE ambassador, carrying the same values as our founder: tenacity, elegance, performance and most of all heart. He is part of our history and will remain in our golf patrimony forever. ” says Christophe Chenut, CEO of LACOSTE S.A. As one may expect given the background, LACOSTE has associated itself with many female players, not least the current crop of partners and ambassadors including the awesome talents of Cristie Kerr & Yani Tseng. The male field is well represented too including the unconventional Miguel-Angel Jimenez & Jose-Maria Olazabal alongside a host of young up & coming players from all over the world. 119 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

Top to bottom: Family ties: Rene, Simone & Catherine Lacoste Rene Lacoste Catherine Lacoste (19 yrs old) becomes world golf champion

LACOSTE is a family brand and it has long been the policy that ambassadors and partnerships are in it for the long haul, supported from an early age onward to foster a sense of family and longevity. Of course things have changed in the last years in the sponsorship market place. Ever more emphasis is placed on the importance of the contractual terms and of course, the big players with big names can command large sums of money. LACOSTE though has made every effort to remain true to its mission in both golf and tennis and its partners still perpetuate the values of the brand. It’s an important message that sets LACOSTE apart from many other sponsoring brands who merely look to monetise short term success and create the brand values from whole cloth rather than the long heritage path. All sponsor partnerships are the result of a synergy of sorts with the philosophies of the brand in question and the players themselves; no relationship can be purely about the corporate elements, though it has to be a consideration - but there must be a spark, the “je ne sais quoi” aspect that marries up the flair of the brand and the aspirations and talents of the player. Of course it is not all about the players – as with any international sponsorship campaign, it is also about the events – the name on the trophy and the hoardings. LACOSTE primarily sponsors events in its home territory in France with the men’s and ladies French Open and the Grand Prix PGA de France. There are also the more personal events – the Simone Thion de la Chaume trophy sits close to the corporate heart. Outside of France, events are sponsored in Morocco & a recent add on, the Lorena Ochoa Invitational in Mexico. Right:: Thomas Levet

Top right: Catherine Lacoste with Simone at the British Ladies (1969) at Royal Portrush

Far Right: Yani Tseng

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LACOSTE has grown from the first cotton piqués first worn in 1927 by René Lacoste himself –shocking the French Tennis Federation with their unseemly body skimming shape, into a giant bestriding the world. The famous crocodile was born from a bet. The Captain of the French Davis Cup team promised René Lacoste a crocodile skin suitcase if he prevailed in an important match. The nickname Crocodile was bestowed by the American press and kept in the spotlight by the American public. When a close friend, Robert George drew a crocodile that was then embroidered on René’s blazer, That the iconic logo could emerge from such a light hearted moment pays tribute to the that still permeates the brand in all its incarnations.

Support at grass roots in any sport is crucial to the well being and future and LACOSTE has invested in this, not merely by their support of players as they come up through the ranks, and before the prize money stacks up, but also through their charitable endeavours. In 2006 the firm set up the René Lacoste Foundation a decade after the death of the legend. The mission is to help children and young people to grow & develop key virtues that are essential in sport but also in life. To give disadvantaged children hope & aspiration together with opportunity. Among many projects across the world & in different sports, the Foundation donates to golf projects including the Djerba Golf Promotion Centre in Tunisia, CityParks in New York, First Tee Miami, CrocoGolf and CrocoGolf Nord in France & Insergolf in Spain. www.fondationrenelacoste.org. In itself as a global brand, LACOSTE has grown from the first cotton piqués first worn in 1927 by René Lacoste himself –shocking the French Tennis Federation with their unseemly body skimming shape, into a giant bestriding the world. Innovation has always been a key concept at the brand from those first steel tennis rackets that revolutionised the game to the limited edition cars and yachts. In over 75 years, it has lines not only in apparel but extended into eyewear, leather goods, home textiles, fragrances, watches, jewellery, and footwear. The brand has presence in 114 countries, often working with local partners & distributor firms, or under licence. There has never been a time when LACOSTE has rested on its laurels and the future doesn’t look any different. With particular regards to golf, LACOSTE has recently put its R&D department to work on a line of technical golf apparel like rain wear, as well as the wearable and likeable sportswear lines. This is setting a pattern for the future, though there are no plans at the present to extend this to footwear. Product lines like the eyewear, accessories and fragrances are mix and match across all elements of the LACOSTE customer’s lifestyle. 121 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

Above:

Cristie Kerr

Opposite:

A personal tribute letter from Catherine Lacoste to Seve

The ing of clubs AND THE MD OF GOLF

By Michael Morton Early in 2008 the possibility of Seve becoming associated with MD Golf was discussed with his company, Amen Corner. That summer, it was agreed that Seve would not only endorse the MD range of golf equipment but we would also produce a new range under the ‘Seve’ name. In August 2008 we travelled to Pedreña to meet Seve and his nephew Ivan, who handles all his business affairs. Seve could not have been more of a gentleman either at dinner in Santander or making us feel very welcome at his home in Pedreña where we discussed a large range of topics and what he wanted us to do with the brand. One of his most passionate ideas was his “continuous bounce wedge” which he designed to make bunker play easier for golfers of all abilities. He even joked that some tour pros should be using the club for longer bunker shots that even they tend to struggle with. His overriding advice to us was not only to produce high quality equipment but also to make it affordable. As a young man he had experienced the difficulty in getting started in a sport which was viewed as elitist, and he wanted to be associated with a company that made golf accessible to all.

“Seve’s advice was not only to produce high quality equipment but also to make it affordable” 139 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

Seve on the beach at Pedrena armed with a set of his MD Golf clubs

Before we left Pedreña he insisted we visit the beach where he learnt to play his golf as a child. It was quite an unforgettable experience to see him on the beach with his new set of our clubs and enjoying life to the full. He even encouraged his nephew Ivan to hit driver shots off the sand without the aid of a tee peg. His nephew was more than up to the challenge. We bid Seve farewell and he told us he was looking forward to seeing us again in Munich at the European Golf show where we would officially launch his new range of equipment. Tragically before he could board his flight to Munich he took ill at Madrid airport and was rushed to hospital. After his initial recovery from surgery he enjoyed playing some golf at home and at Pedreña with his new clubs and was delighted at the response and interest that was generated from all around the world. All his family enjoyed using clubs that bore his name including his two sons Javier & Miguel. Over the next couple of years Seve and his family continued to work closely with us to develop the brand. Seve golf clubs are now used by golfers in Europe, North America, Japan, Australia, Dubai, Thailand, China & in all major golfing countries around the world. We were obviously, like everyone else in the golfing world, devastated to hear of his passing but honoured that we have the opportunity to become involved in creating a legacy of which he would be proud of. For details and info go to: www.mdgolf.co.uk

Seve was first to drive the green... For more information and to Call 0300 500 0405 or visit

The joy of

Santa Lucia Algarve’s South Coast reveals sheer class and luxury in a fisherman’s and golfer’s paradise. Shaun Snyman writes

Santa Lucia is located in the South of Algarve near Tavira, an idyllic and stunning region, peaceful and tranquil, yet just a 30 minute drive from the airport. The village of Santa Lucia retains its Portuguese traditions, food and culture in addition to its natural scenery beaches and golf clubs. It is right beside the Benamor, Quinta da Ria, and Quinta de Cima world-class golf courses so the highest golfing challenges can be met whilst your other half indulges in the finer and most relaxing aspects of life. The Ria Formosa National park full of protected and native flora and forna provides the unique silence of space and beauty.

In the new development by Royal Iberia, ten hectares divided into 9 condominiums, each with its own swimming pool, private parking, 9,000m2 of green areas, in exceptional surroundings are being prepared to cater for the informed and well versed investor. Prices are at a recognised low currently and most predict that its protected and natural credentials mean further development is unlikely and prices are due to increase. A further number of apartments and property will ensure the area will receive all of the benefits of high investment infrastructure without the over development seen elsewhere in parts of the Med. Truly the best of both worlds. It will remain true to its Algarve pedigree and retain all of the local charm and character with its laid back feel and lifestyle. Unique, exclusive, unmatched. In the midst of the true Algarve. Perfect for a relaxing vacation, or the place to live a quality life for all 12 months of the year.

Because of the reliability of the weather in the Algarve, the beaches are accessible all year. With 19 quality beaches, a calm sea and white sands that extend as far as the eye can see there is certainly an abundance to choose from. Virtually every sport too is catered for, from a golferâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paradise to a watersportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; wet dream! The quieter personalities will feel spoilt with a National Park, wildlife and slower, more relaxing pace of life, whilst indulging in fresh grilled fish caught nearby by local fishermen and a glass of refreshing and regional wine. The architecture and heritage in Tavira is exquisite and the locals boast a natural pride and love for their town, equalled only by their desire to welcome visitors, include you in their customs and generally allow you to feel a part of a most special development. Royal Iberia are a long established regional company who have a proud history of creating homes and improving the quality of life for everyone fortunate to be a part or neighbour to their projects. Santa Lucia is one of their most ambitious and stunning developments offering virtually all things to all men. It is rare that locals and outside buyers both appreciate and admire the investment, positive influences and benefits a well planned and designed home development can bring. This however is one. Simply stunning. Please visit:

My London Bolthole - The Cavendish London by A Lyon-Dean

135 SEVE - A COMMEMORATIVE GUIDE

www.thecavendishlondon.com

The staff – who are among some of the most content in the UK (as ike probably most of the people reading this, I’m a regular visitor attested to by the hotel being voted one of the best places to work in to London – both for business reasons and to bathe in the lambent the UK), genuinely care about your welfare and wellbeing and really light of the myriad opportunities to ‘get a bit of culture’. You can keep do go that extra mile. They remember you visit to visit – and sure they Paris, Dubai and New York; London is still, for me, the beating heart almost certainly have crib notes for regulars, but they make that effort of the world for theatre, museums, sporting events and shopping! and make it look effortless. (Special mention must go to Richard the (What can I say?- no Y chromosome!). exceptional concierge and Neil the manager, who are treasures It’s tempting to play it safe when you book hotels – stay in the hotel beyond price!) Gigantic something or other, where the service is good and you know Can I say one thing here – pillows. Yes thank you. A pillow can make ahead of time what everything will be like, and you could be in or break a stay and I can confidently state that the pillows at The anyone of a dozen capital cities once the doorman has closed the Cavendish London have never disappointed. Outside of pillows, the door behind you. rooms I’ve stayed have been without exception, extremely nice. Not The alternative is to take a little risk with a lesser-known quantity your corporate style guidelines, every room the same, bland good where you might get very lucky and discover a gem –or you might not. taste but equally not going out of the way to be so individual that you I’m going to take a little element of that risk away and let you into my feel like an intruder! Elegant, contemporary, comfortable with good little black book of useful information. A hotel that is large enough to lighting (which I find terribly important), and, up there with crucial, have all the amenities you’d expect, but small enough to retain its powerful showers in spacious bathrooms. Is it terribly British to harp character and crucially, doesn’t descend into the trap of being too on about the plumbing all the time?! self consciously British – (that which I designate as ‘Merchant Ivory To come to one of my other major passions – (other than showers style’ with no disrespect to the film makers), is an address worth and pillows and erm... lighting) and in fact my career for many years; retaining whether you’re in town for business or pleasure or both. food. Seasonal, locally and sustainably sourced, well presented The Cavendish London – a name to conjure with, and with a suitably modern British-European cuisine that lets the ingredients speak louche history of an (alleged) royal mistress linked with the louder than the chef’s ego. I’d rest my case there but I would like to luminaries like the Churchills, Asquiths, Saviles and tempered with also point out that everyone should have a proper afternoon tea with a social conscience – has reinvented itself as a cool, cosmopolitan scones, clotted cream and a proper pot of tea. Even if you’re a and stylish pied-a-terre in the heart of SW1. dedicated coffee drinker it’s a rite of passage for every visitor to this This part of London is brilliantly located for, well, almost anything, so sceptr’d isle. it makes a wonderful base for business or pleasure – and actually the Oh and a really special English breakfast. I rarely have more than suite of rooms for conferences and seminars is an invaluable black coffee in the morning but a proper breakfast ahead of a hectic resource and well worth considering for corporate occasions. Some meeting schedule or heavy day out exercising my credit card or of the best gentlemen’s outfitters in the world are on the doorstep so taking in a exhibition, does occasionally require the indulgence of it’s not just about shopping for ladies. what my grandmother would call a ‘proper breakfast’ – in the terribly The Cavendish London has had regular updates over the years, so proper received pronunciation that awed me into silence as a small it’s kept pace with modern plumbing and conveniences which is child. always a blessing and extremely far thinking of the various owners They also make a mean Dirty Martini should that be of any interest to over the last hundred plus years since Rosa Lewis bought the place a reader. I generally find on every level that The Cavendish London in 1902. What you get now is an exceptionally stylish yet warm and satisfies my London hotel needs. It’s a classy four star that welcoming atmosphere; a serenity analogous to a swan. You can sit consistently over performs in its class and is a genuine pleasure to and enjoy the calm and know there’s a lot of bustling going on revisit. Can I just humbly request that we keep this one entre-nous? underneath to ensure your tranquillity. I’d like to be able to get a reservation next time I’m in town.

TRIBUTE SEVERIANO BALLESTEROS 9TH APRIL 1957 - 11TH MAY 2011

The best tribute we can pay to Seve is to go on playing "I was deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Seve for him, although no tribute will ever do justice to Ballesteros. I always enjoyed spending time with him at the everything he did for golf and to everything he gave us." Champions dinner each year at the U.S. Masters. Seve was one of the most talented and exciting golfers to ever play the game. His creativity and inventiveness on the golf course may never be surpassed. His death came much too soon." Very few people are called legends in this world and Seve was one of them. "Never before in our lifetime have we seen such a talent swing a golf club. Such a great day for Spain, for Europe and for the world of golf. "We've lost one of the great icons of the sport, but may we also celebrate Seve's life. I think it's only right at this time - what a character and what a passionate man he was. It was an honour to play under him as our captain in the Ryder Cup (in 1997) and an honour to play with him.

"Seve was the most charismatic and artistic golfer I have ever seen play the game.•He helped the tremendous growth of The European Tour during the 70's and 80's and inspired all those players who came after him. He will be sadly missed."

He brought excitement into the European game as Arnold Palmer did into the American game. Everybody drew another breath when he played – it was like Watching a masterpiece.’

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"Seve was one of the brightest lights of our game and was an inspiration to millions. His iconic celebration here at St Andrews, on the 18th green in 1984, ranks as one of sport’s greatest moments. The game has lost one of the greats”.

" Golf has lost a great champion and a great friend. We also lost a great entertainer and ambassador for our sport. "I have always had wonderful respect for Seve's ability, how he played the game, and the flair he brought to the sport. "It was his creativity, his imagination and his desire to compete that made him so popular not only in Europe but throughout American galleries too. "Seve's enthusiasm was just unmatched by anybody I think that ever played the game."

"Seve made a impact on me and on my life in this sport. He was a leader; bringing the spotlight to the European Tour, paving the way to European success at the Masters and bringing his relentless passion to the Ryder Cup. For golf, he was the greatest show on earth. I was a fan and so fortunate I had a front row seat.

TRIBUTE Just a few memories and tributes amongst the millions of wishes

, "He was outstanding for his determination and his passion in everything he did. He never gave up, he always found a way out, and this was reflected in his personality. "I have lived so many moments with him that it’s hard to chose one. I would maybe highlight the ’97 Ryder Cup, where I was his assistant. It was a truly special week. I loved to watch him fulfil one of his dreams and enjoy it so much. Seve’s passion for the Ryder Cup was unique.”

"There's not many players I've worked for in my time that have that aura about them. It was a special time - I was probably 25 years old, I'd caddied for maybe 10 years, and I got the ultimate dream chance of working for an absolute superstar."

Seve will be forever associated with Valderrama Golf Club, his immense personality and leadership qualities were amply demonstrated during the 97 Ryder Cup when he lead his team to a great victory. Seve is fast becoming a true sporting legend, he will be greatly missed.

At the 1976 Open the Club received a phone call from Birkdale Railway Station saying they had a young foreign chap at the station who didn’t speak much English but they assumed from his golf clubs that he was here for the golf. The Club suggested they put him in a taxi and send him over. His story & performance during that championship ignited a very special relationship with the public. He became an inspiration to so many. His skill was incredible and his style gave us all hope. Who can ever forget his flamboyant celebrations following victories in the Open & at the Ryder Cup.

"Seve was a great champion. He was a swashbuckling man, a handsome man who really entertained the crowd." "He played such a fantastic game of golf. Wherever Seve went there was always a huge crowd. He saw the West course here at Wentworth as one of his favourite places to play. "He’s the pioneer, he‘s the person that’s changed the shape in many ways - especially with the general public - of European golf. His way of playing, his whole charisma, he brought it to new markets, to new people, to new populations. He is Europe's version of Arnold Palmer, he is the person that really made that big difference. "Seve & the Ryder Cup - it's legendary what he did. To think Montgomerie had him on speakerphone to the team down at Celtic Manor (2010) is a sign of how the professional golfers were inspired by him. Seve was in many ways the king of the recovery shot. I always remember a wonderful shot - I think it may have been in 1991 - it was a very tricky and important shot in the game. A little boy behind him was rattling his coins in his pocket & Seve stepped back and said to the little boy, 'Are you nervous?', 'Yes' - the boy said, ..'So am I!' replied Seve."

Seve won the Open Championship twice at Royal Lytham & always considered it his lucky course. It was here in 1979 that Seve carved his reputation as the most exciting golfer of his & any other generation. On a fast running course and in a strong cold North West wind, Seve drove the ball wildly but never once played safe. His most famous drive came at the 16th, where he finished under a car parked in the press car park. He proceeded to pitch the ball 20 feet from the Hole & holed his putt for a three. He followed this with two fours and became the first continental European to win the Open since 1907. After Seve’s miraculous victory in 1988 here, he said “you can only hope for a Round like that every 25, maybe 50 years” - such was its unique skill. We are proud that this great golfer played the round of his life at Royal Lytham & St Annes.

The world of golf & beyond thank you for the memories, dear Seve.

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TRIBUTE "Severiano was one of the finest golfers of all time and a legend in world sport. Severiano was loved and respected for his great charisma and strength, which he showed until the very end of his life.

Picture taken from the original painting “the Head” by Anne Mackintosh

Seve Ballesteros was a man of incredible skill, charisma and courage as a sportsman, and the dignified way that he fought [his illness] was characteristic of the man and was an inspiration to us all. He was a 'once in a generation athlete' in his sport, and his influence on the game will live long after him.

"Seve Ballesteros was arguably the most talented player the game of golf has ever produced. “He was a magician with a club in his hands and loved by true golf fans wherever he played. “He first played in his first Open Championship at Carnoustie in 1975 which was won by Tom Watson and was a regular visitor right up until the 2007 Open when he announced his retirement from competitive play. “Seve never played his best golf here but that didn’t stop the locals flocking to watch him in large numbers. He was a bit like Hogan, Nicklaus and Palmer in as much as nobody wanted to miss him whenever he came to town. “He will be sadly missed.”"Severiano was loved and respected for his great charisma and strength, which he showed until the very end of his life."

“Apparently God needed a short game lesson!”

SEVERIANO BALLESTEROS 9TH APRIL 1957 - 11TH MAY 2011

I was in Sion hospital, where I had just had an operation under anaesthetics. I had just been taken back to my ward. I switched on the television. Coincidence or destiny, they were announcing that Ballesteros had died and his photo came onto the screen. He was saying: “It was Gaston Barras who called me to Switzerland”. It was a shock for me, but also an everlasting link with Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club. Throughout the world, the media spoke about this sportsman, about this exceptional, unique individual who had left us at the age of 54. I was lucky enough to know Seve right from the start, first through his brother Manuel, who came 2nd during the 1971 Open and later. I was there during his successes and also certain disappointments. I’ll never forget 1976, when I was lucky enough to play with the well-known golfer Sam Snead and Severiano Ballesteros. The list of his prizes is exceptional. He was nominated “Best European Golfer of the 20th Century” and was among the two best 20th century golf players in the world, (the other one was Jack Nicklaus). A three time winner of the European Masters, in 1977, 1978 and 1989, the charismatic and complex golf artist Seve Ballesteros was endowed with such flair and intelligence in a competition that he turned something that was a simple game into a chef-d’oeuvre that was admired by everyone. If the ground required him to kneel, he played on his knees. The magic shots that flew from his hands were unique. I’d just like to remind you of his “master shot” at the 18th hole during the 1993 Omega European Masters. The ball was under the pine trees against the swimming pool wall. From there, with an exceptional shot, he brought the ball onto the chipping green and then into the hole with one putt. During his funeral in Pedreña, in the north of Spain, most of the great players were present, among them were José Maria Olazábal, Nick Faldo and Colin Montgomerie, all three time winners of the European Masters. Our club was represented by Mr. Christian Barras, a committee member. Those who were lucky enough to have known him or to have met him on the Haut-Plateau or on our golf course will remember him not only as a great golf player, but also as a father who took care of his children. When, together with the committee, we decided to name the golf course Severiano Ballesteros, I received a certain amount of criticism for having abandoned the name of “Plan-Bramois”. I hope that this criticism has by now been forgotten. Ballesteros forever… Success, respect and friendship, these are the things that Crans will always associate with the Spaniard Severiano Ballesteros.

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The world of golf & beyond thank you for the memories, dear Seve.

Ashridge Golf Club

Ashridge has regularly featured in the top 100 golf courses in the UK. The Club first came to prominence in the late 1930's following the appointment of Henry Cotton as resident Club Professional. Sir Henry Cotton, as he was to become, was arguably the best golfer of his era, winning three Open Championships including the Open at Carnoustie in 1937 whilst he was at Ashridge. Between 2003 and 2008, it was selected by the R & A to host an Open Championship Regional Qualifying Competition. Today, the course measures 6,663 yards and with a par of 72, it has fairly been described as encouraging to the average golfer whilst thought provoking to the good player.

Ashridge Golf Club, Little Gaddesden, Berkhamsted, Herts HP4 1LY Tel: (01442) 842244 info@ashridgegolfclub.ltd.uk

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Seveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Course Scores Play the courses featured - mark your scores, any comments and notes.

Kennemer GC

notes

1976

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Royal Iberia, Ed. Central Office, Parque das Nações, Av. D. João II, Lt. 1.17.03, 9º 1998-026 Lisboa, Portugal Tel: +44 7901 945836 (UK) Email: info@jotaiber.com

ROYAL IBERIA building great www.royaliberia.pt

nicolas rieussec timewriter. A tribute to the inventor of the first chronograph. Monopusher chronograph, self-winding manufacture movement. 30 min. and 60 sec. rotating disc counters fixed on the counter bridge. 72h