SGB Golf / January 2017

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January 2017

“Connecting the Golf Industry”

Benross & Woods for Bridgestone Your Golf Travel going places Dial M for TaylorMade launches Pro who collects golf shops Titleist and BACKTEE Q&As New deals for Day, Ko and Booth

All eyes in the trade turn towards Orlando 64th PGA Merchandise Show

INTRODUCING

SHOT SCOPE

PERFORMANCE TRACKING SYSTEM Find out more inside about the latest golf tech

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04/01/2017 12:48

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04/01/2017 13:20

NIPPON STRIP:Layout 1 01/12/2015

January 2017

First Words Paul Trow

P

rior to my latest diatribe, it would be remiss of me not to wish our readers a happy and prosperous new year.

Everyone at the cutting edge of the golf industry seems to work so hard, so inventively and with such good faith to make our sport as stimulating and welcoming as it can be, so it seems a shame that there’s always something undermining their best efforts.

To say golf in the UK is at a crossroads as we head into 2017 is an understatement. When some of us pack our bags to make the journey to the 64th PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando later this month, others will be putting in equally hard yards preparing and stocking their pro shops for the spring.

But what lies in store for the domestic game in the face of declining and ageing club memberships, not to mention increasing numbers of nomadic players who cherry-pick cheap green-fee deals, and buy all their clothing and kit on ebay?

What indeed?

Well, a few things are starting to stack up in the game’s favour. Firstly, we’re having a good winter – long overdue after successive precipitous winters and summers dating back at least six years. Secondly, the rate of course closures seems to be slowing. And thirdly, the predicted rise in retail prices triggered by Brexit and its consequences has yet to materialise.

It seems pro shops really are becoming more efficient, and the chain of supply more punctual. But, and this is a big but... where is the leadership within the game to steer us clear of a potentially precarious downturn? We aren’t on the brink of

disaster yet, but we’re not exactly wallowing in contentment and clover.

The admirable Doug Poole and his team will roll out National Golf Month again in May, and the all-party Parliamentary golf group will throw in their much-needed support. Top players like Ian Poulter and Charley Hull will no doubt help to boost awareness, but where will our governing bodies be?

The PGA will soon have a change of leadership with the impending retirement of chief executive Sandy Jones, which might explain why it’s very quite on the subject of growing the game at present. The R&A perpetually lives in its own little bubble, more concerned with giving grants to Rwanda than Rochdale, the European Tour is preoccupied with tying up multi-million-pound prizemoney carrots for Rory & Co in the Middle East and beyond, and the national amateur unions, as ever, are concentrating on funding their elite squads.

The PGAs of Europe and the Ladies European Tour are honourable exceptions to this malaise that seems to by-pass ordinary golfers. At least they are committed to attracting Joseph, Josephine and Junior Normal into the game and retaining their attention.

Anyone who has played in an LET pro-am will attest to the unfailing courtesy shown to their amateur partners by these delightful, and very skilful, players. And the same seems to be true for anyone who takes time out to participate in one of the PGAE’s numerous tournaments.

Yes, it takes time, effort and probably a bit of money to satisfy the punters. But, as these two bodies keep proving, in the long run it’s surely worth it.

Enjoy the read!

Editor: Paul Trow n Tel: 07973 862747 n email: ptrow76780@aol.com Advertising: Pete Simmons n Tel: 07827 995 080 n email: simmogolf@icloud.com PUBLISHED BY: Silverback Publishing Ltd Publisher: Tom Saunders Managing Director: Andrew Crispin DESIGN BY: Keith Wood, Hype Creative Whilst every care is taken in the preparation of SGB Golf, the editor or publisher do not accept any liability for inaccuracies. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the editor. Publication of advertisements and information does not imply recommendation. Publication of submitted items will be at the discretion of the editor. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the permission of the directors of the company

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Contents 04 News Benross and Bridgestone 06 Preview PGA Merchandise Show 08 Travel Your Golf Travel 10 Cover story Shot Scope 12 Equipment TaylorMade launches 14 Field Report Matthew Paget pro shops 16 Advertorial Glenbrae outerwear 18 Q&A BACKTEE

20 Q&A Titleist wedges 22 Feature Mannings Heath vineyard 24 Apparel News Cross and PUMA SS17 26 Accessories News Latest accessories 28 People Who’s doing what 30 PGA News Official developments 32 Event News What’s coming up 34 Mulligan Muirfield and Trump

06/01/2017 10:35

NEWS

BRIDGESTONE CHOOSES BENROSS FOR WOODS-LED RELAUNCH

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n exclusive, multiyear deal with Tiger Woods has triggered Bridgestone’s imminent return to the UK and Irish golf-ball markets, barely 12 months since the Japanese company pulled out to widespread surprise across the industry.

Now seemingly recovered from the injuries that sidelined him for much of the past three seasons, the 14-time Major champion has selected Bridgestone Golf’s Tour B330-S ball as the springboard for his 2017 playing campaign.

Woods, who has just turned 41, made only 18 PGA Tour appearances in 2014-15 and none in 2016, but a tournament comeback last month at his

own event, the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas, has inspired optimism on both sides of the Atlantic.

Masterminding Bridgestone’s bid to recover the firm foothold it voluntarily surrendered over here a year ago will be Surreybased Benross Golf which has secured an exclusive deal to distribute the brand’s balls across the UK and Ireland from next month.

But Benross, hitherto a club manufacturer, will be entering uncharted territory as it takes responsibility for re-establishing Bridgestone’s balls, currently No.1 in Japan and No.2 in the US, across the British Isles.

Jon Everitt, CEO of Benross

Golf, said: “We are so pleased to be bringing Bridgestone back to the UK – it represents a massive coup for Benross as a company.

It has taken some time to secure the deal, and we are delighted. The ball has a great following already and Tiger Woods using it gives the brand a significant raise in profile.”

Woods said: “Finding the right golf ball is extremely important. It’s an essential part of my equipment, and the Bridgestone B330-S ball is hands-down the best for my game. Controlling launch and trajectory is critical, and with this ball I feel I have total control.”

Bridgestone Golf president and CEO Angel Llagan, pictured

with Woods, said: “No one spends more time perfecting their equipment than Tiger Woods, and no one holds their equipment to a higher standard.

His choice of Bridgestone sends a clear message that our balls are superior.”

In addition to the B330s, Benross will stock the full range of Bridgestone’s balls, including the new E6 Soft and E6 Speed. *Since Nike’s withdrawal from the global golf hardware market last summer, Woods has been reunited with the Scotty Cameron Newport 2 GSS putter he used during his Majorwinning heyday.

shaft line-up, including 26 new products among 68 possible options, at the Surbiton Golf Studio in Surrey. Its Shaft Optimizer collects data from the swing rather than the golf ball, enabling the system to

function even when the tester is having an inconsistent ball-striking day. golf. mizunoeurope.com n The Silvermere Golf Complex in Surrey has incorporated an XXIO club-fitting centre into its

two-tier, 52-bay driving range. www.silvermeregolfstore.com n The freehold of Springs Golf Club in Oxfordshire, home to an 18-hole Brian Huggett design dating from 1998, is for sale at £1.75m

www.benrossgolf.co.uk and www.bridgestonegolf.com

TAP INS n Motocaddy introduced a full five-year warranty on all purchases of its new Lithium batteries on January 1. www. motocaddy.com n Mizuno unveiled its Swing DNA software and extended

BETTINARDI’S UK DISTRIBUTION DEAL

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S International is the new promoter and supplier of Bettinardi Golf’s putters and wedges in the UK. The Watford-based company is investing in retail display stands, and director Bijal Patani said: “This is an exciting

development for us and our customers. It’s the first time we’ve offered our retail partners a club line that comes with a premium price point and a healthy margin. More golfers are looking for top-quality products that will improve their game and

in this respect Bob Bettinardi has an impressive track record.”

Supplies being shipped to JS International from Bettinardi’s factory in Chicago include uncut shafts that can be tailored to exact individual requirements at several custom-fitting

specialists around the country.

Other brands distributed by JS International include BagBoy, ClicGear, Ogio, Voice Caddie, and grips from SuperStroke, Golf Pride, Lamkin and Winn. www.bettinardi.com and www.jsint.com

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04/01/2017 15:20

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06/01/2017 17:32

PGA SHOW PREVIEW Orlando, here we come!

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GA professionals, product buyers and industry leaders will shortly be heading to central Florida to preview and test the latest innovations in golf equipment, advance their merchandising and clubfitting skills, and meet with representatives of nearly 1,000 companies, brands and other exhibitors.

The 64th PGA Merchandise Show takes place at the massive Orange County Convention Center in Orlando from Wednesday, January 25 to Friday, January 27 and will

be preceded by the equally important Outdoor Demo Day at Orange County National Golf Center in Tuesday, January 24.

Many of golf’s leading brands will be displaying their latest wares, including Bushnell, Callaway, COBRA PUMA, FlightScope, Foresight, Garmin, Honma, PING, Pride Sports, SkyGolf, Srixon/Cleveland, TaylorMade-adidas, Titleist and FootJoy, TrackMan, Tour Edge, Wilson and Yonex.

However, at the time of going to press there also appeared to be some notable absentees from the exhibitors’ roster.

Bridgestone, fresh from cementing an endorsement deal with Tiger Woods and a UK and Ireland distribution deal with Benross, is missing from the list. So too is Nike, despite signing up world No.1 Jason Day to wear its apparel and shoes.

Ladies’ world No.1 Lydia Ko has just switched to ECCO shoes, but the Danish company is also seemingly giving the show a miss.

Mizuno, which has already launched its range for 2017, will not be exhibiting for timing reasons and previous regulars like Lamkin grips and apparel

brands Chervo, Glenmuir and Cross are not planning to be there either.

But despite these blips in the roll call, there will still be a bewildering array of goodies to savour, starting with the 15th Demo Day where more than 100 equipment manufacturers will pitch their tents to showcase their latest products around a 42-acre mounded amphitheatre for hands-on testing.

Throughout the Demo Day, and continuing across the three days of the show, leading instructors, headed

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WHO’S THERE FROM EUROPE?

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s is customary, there will be a strong UK and European presence in Orlando.

A total of 27 UK companies have received DIT grants to attend, including SGB Golf. These are a mixture of newcomers, like Twisted Frog, VPAR and Cubik Eyeware, show veterans like Two Thumb Grip, Explanar, Asbri and Power Tee, and several travel-related exhibitors, mostly in harness with VisitScotland.

Ireland will again be prominent in the travel section where France, in advance of the 2018 Ryder Cup, and Morocco will be exhibiting for the first time.

But for some reason, Wales – an ever-present since mounting its campaign for the 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor nearly 15 years ago – has bowed out. Equally disappointing is the failure, yet again, of England to exhibit as a travel destination, especially as VisitEngland has thrown its weight and some government money behind the project.

Other European brands to look out for include Henrik Stenson Eyewear, though the Open champion himself will not be in Orlando, the joint Peter Millar and dunhill Links stand in the apparel section, outerwear debutants Kjus, Sabona bracelets and the upmarket line-up of luxury goods under the Trendy Sports Agency umbrella.

by David Leadbetter, will pass on their teaching secrets and techniques.

The Demo Day will be open only to PGA professionals and media representatives from 9am to midday, after which other retailers and industry professionals can join the event before it closes at 5pm.

At the show itself, many companies will make use of the equipment test centre’s 45 hitting bays while numerous product presentations and other discussions about industry trends will take place on the PGA forum stage.

And in addition to a dazzling apparel section, more than 40 fabric mills and factories from around the world will provide an educational showcase of the latest developments in athletic and golf-related apparel in the performance & sports textile sourcing section of the show floor.

“The PGA Merchandise Show Floor represents the very best names in golf, from market leaders and established golf manufacturers to service and accessory providers, and inventive start-up companies,” was PGA golf exhibitions

event director Marc Simon’s rallying call. “These influential companies and brands create an unmatched resource to build business in 2017. In addition to sourcing from every sector of golf, PGA Show week is full of opportunities to personally test the newest equipment and technology, learn the latest merchandising strategies, meet with industry leaders, network among peers, and drive the business of the game forward.”

The show is never short of golfing celebrities and in recent years it has been graced by

the presence by some of the leading lights on both the PGA and LPGA Tours. Definitely committed to attend are old favourites John Daly and Nancy Lopez, but it would be a surprise if Bubba Watson, a Florida native, didn’t show off to plug the pink and green Volvik balls he plans to use in tournaments throughout 2017. n For PGA professionals and industry personnel leaving the decision whether or not to attend to the last minute, accreditation information is available at PGAShow.com/ guidelines.

POTENTIAL STAR OF THE SHOW

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tealing a march on its rivals, Callaway Golf’s new Great Big Bertha Epic range – driver, fairway woods and Sub Zero driver – will no doubt hog centrestage on the company’s stand in Orlando and will be available to the UK market immediately after the show (January 27).

The Epic driver is blessed with Jailbreak technology that enables the key structural components – crown, sole and

face – to deform at impact to increase ball speed. Jailbreak incorporates two slender titanium bars connected to the crown and sole, positioned parallel to each other behind the face, to change how the head, as a whole, behaves at impact.

The fairway woods employ a triaxial carbon crown that weighs just 5.8g, 78 per cent lighter than a steel fairway crown. The saved weight is

redistributed into strategic locations within the head to improve launch by increasing MOI and lowering the CG. The Sub Zero Driver has two interchangeable weights (12g and 2g) positioned at the front and back of the sole to deliver adjustable spin-rate, launch angle and MOI. RRPs: £469 for each of the drivers and £279 for a fairway wood.

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06/01/2017 18:33

TRAVEL

NEWS HOME AND ABROAD Your Golf Travel going places

O

ne successful British brand set to adopt a high profile at this year’s PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando is Your Golf Travel.

With its parent company, the Palatinate Group, on course to turn over £100m in 2016, including contributions from its spa, horse racing, cycling and LGBT subsidiaries, YGT is arguably the world’s largest golf travel business.

After recently launching the Trade Travel Club, an initiative that will no doubt have delivered many of the packages bought by British and Irish professionals and other visitors to the Orange County Convention Center, the sky is seemingly the limit.

A lot has happened in a hurry for YGT’s two founders, Ross Marshall, its CEO, and Andrew Harding, both now 35, since teaming up a year or two after leaving Durham University.

Named after the university’s student newspaper, the Palatinate Group was launched

in July 2005 on the back of a £10,000 credit card loan and a hunch that a discounted, internet-driven operation would elicit a positive response from the golf market.

Sales that first year barely topped £30,000. Today the company annually sends 200,000 golfers to some 3,000 clubs and resorts in 22 different countries. Its global ambassadors include Darren Clarke, Lee Westwood and Charley Hull along with celebrities like Michael Vaughan, Frankie Dettori and Mike Tindall. With an office in Farringdon, central London, the company has also raised more than £600,000 for charity during its brief existence.

“Andrew came to me saying he wanted to start a golf travel company,” Marshall, who at the time worked for Barclays Capital, recalls. “He had a lot of contacts in travel. We started in his bedroom and then moved to a small office in Raynes Park, paying £50 a week in rent.

“A big break came when we bought the freehold of our present office in 2009, at the height of the banking crash. It gave us stability. We were very young when we started and we worked seven days a week. At the time, golf travel was a fragmented industry – something like 47 different businesses, only a third of which had websites.

“Everything needed simplifying for the consumer.

We’ve rebuilt our website a few times since – we’re probably on the fourth version now.”

Marshall, a member of the St George’s Hill club in Surrey, was dismayed by the country’s Brexit vote in June and admits he actively campaigned for Remain. Astutely, though, he still hedged his bets in terms of the company’s currency exposure in advance of the referendum. “I knew there’d be a run on the pound if the Brexit vote was successful. We employ a lot of EU nationals, about 20 per cent of our work force of 260 people, and we also

have offices in Ireland, Atlanta, the Algarve and Belek.” * Nearly 140,000 of the new TaylorMade TP5 balls, with a retail value in excess of £500,000, could be given away to golfers who book holidays with YGT before the end of next month.

Every golfer who is part of a booking for a stay and play break in the UK or Ireland, a trip to Europe or a long-haul escape will receive three, six or 12 balls respectively.

Harding said: “We’re delighted to be working with TaylorMade and look forward to rewarding not just the lead booker, but all YGT clients booking in January and February.”

Paul Hitchenor, TaylorMade Golf’s marketing director, said: “We are extremely excited about our new TP5 ball and the opportunity for so many YGT customers to trial it is something we could not refuse.” www.yourgolftravel.com/ balls-for-all

EUROPEAN TOUR TO VISIT VERDURA

S

icilian golf resort Verdura will stage the Rocco Forte Open, a European Tour event named after its British owner, from May 18-21 – the week before the BMW PGA Championship.

Home to two championship courses and a nine-hole par-three layout, all designed by Kyle Phillips of Kingsbarns and The Grove fame, Verdura opened in 2009 and three years later hosted the Sicilian Open, which was won by Denmark’s Thorbjørn Olesen.

The resort occupies some 550 acres on the west coast of the Mediterranean island and has more than 200 rooms and suites on site along with six tennis courts, a variety of swimming pools and gym and spa facilities. www.roccofortehotels.com

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06/01/2017 16:59

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04/01/2017 01/12/2016 13:22 19:47

David Hunter, CEO of Shot Scope Technologies

NO LIMIT TO SHOT SCOPE Setting the standard for golf performance tracking

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ear. Play.

Track.

Improve.

That’s the philosophy of British performance tracking brand Shot Scope. Having come to the market just over 12 months ago, the company has quickly established itself as the leading automatic performance tracking system for golf. This negates the need to tag or sync with a phone which often causes frustration

and disrupts play.

Manufactured and assembled entirely in the UK, the innovative system enables players to monitor trends in their golf game and identify their strengths and weaknesses.

The Shot Scope wristband operates in the background and provides insights previously only available to top tour professionals. Deemed to be ‘conforming’ to the Rules of Golf by the R&A enables the system to be legal for use in

competitive play. To date, Shot Scope has been used at all levels, including by professionals on the European Tour.

The system utilises a set of unique tags which screw into the butt end of each grip, providing every club with its own identity to enable the precise location of each shot to be determined. Suitable for both right-handed and left-handed golfers, the comfortable, one-size-fits-all wristband adjusts to 11 wrist sizes and weighs less than 50g.

Shot Scope doesn’t require a phone on the course or the manual ‘tagging’ of each club after every shot. The Edinburgh-based company has overcome the issues faced by its competitors through the development of its proprietary ClubSense™ technology which allows the wristband to automatically ‘sense’ the tag during the swing with no manual input. The system is unique in that it is golf’s first fully automated performance tracking system, leaving golfers free to enjoy their game.

Another standout

performance characteristic of the Shot Scope system is the PinCollect feature. With the simple press of a button on the wristband, the position of the pin is located on the green and the golfer is then able to collect more detailed putting data for improved post-round statistical analysis. This, in addition to the other 100-plus Tour-level statistics that Shot Scope monitors, allows users to take total control of their game and adopt long-term strategies for sustainable improvement.

Suitable for golfers of every level who are committed to reaching their potential, players are able to track every shot and access a unique perspective of their game by reviewing shots on an overhead course map.

With every shot plotted onto the course using accurate GPS technology, players can gain a new and unique understanding of how far they hit each club in their bag.

Free apps are available for users of both Android and iOS devices, allowing golfers to upload and view their data directly from their smart

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05/01/2017 12:40

phones. Whether it’s in the clubhouse after the round or in the office the following week, Shot Scope provides the functionality to relive every shot and every round, anywhere, at any time.

One of the major benefits of tracking on-course performance using the innovative system is discovering precise distances for each club. While many golfers have preconceived ideas about how far they hit both their woods and their irons, Shot Scope provides accurate, reliable data to give players a better understanding of their distances/capabilities.

This wealth of information is designed to optimise

improvement, offering players the opportunity to gain a new perspective, target their weaknesses and focus their development like never before.

Commenting on the initial success of Shot Scope and the rapid growth of the company in such a short amount of time, CEO David Hunter said: “The beauty of our system is that it operates seamlessly in the background, tracking the wearer’s every shot without any interruptions.

“What we also pride ourselves on is the level of post-round statistical analysis that the collected data is able to provide, with in excess of 100 stats facilitating the analysis of tee shots,

approaches, short game and putting.

“We’re looking forward to exhibiting again at the PGA Merchandise Show later this month, with more than half a dozen of our employees on a significantly larger, 400 square foot booth. That in itself is a clear sign of the growth of Shot Scope in just over 12 months.

“We’ve got a packed diary for the week with lots of meetings which bodes well for 2017, and we’re excited to continue riding the momentum that we’ve generated since coming to market just over a year ago.

We look forward to expanding our business on a global scale over the next year.”

Shot Scope’s smart, wearable

technology is more intuitive and comprehensive than any other current market offering, with the patented system enabling players to track their progress based on more than just their score. With the overriding goal of improving the way in which both amateur and professional golfers collect and analyse statistics from their game, Shot Scope is the first fully automated performance tracking system for golf.

To book an appointment at the Shot Scope booth (#2063) in Orlando, email media@shotscope.com.

For more information, visit www.shotscope.com.

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05/01/2017 12:41

EQUIPMENT

NEWS

J

ames Bond fans will readily acknowledge the pervasive importance of their hero’s boss, M. The same is now true of students of golf clubs.

Soon to arrive in store from TaylorMade Golf is a whole procession of Ms that could easily have been crafted by the ingenious Q... M1 irons, re-engineered M2 irons, M1 and M2 drivers, fairways and hybrids, all benefiting from a new geocoustic design that combines geometry with acoustical engineering. It’s a mouth-watering prospect that would make even that metaltoothed villain, Jaws, slaver with anticipation.

Complementing the existing M2 metalwoods, the re-engineered M2 irons target greater distance, peak trajectory and forgiveness, along with better feel and sound on impact, thanks to a six-sided, fluted hosel and a lower centre of gravity (CG).

The M1 irons, an entirely new line with an added tungstenweighting system that drops the CG to within 1mm of the centre of the clubface, are aimed at the better player who prefers a slightly more compact look along with additional control and workability.

Using a lower-density titanium alloy and an added carbon-toe panel, the new M1 460 and 440 drivers are lighter than their predecessors because the composite is 10 per cent thinner and the bonding ledge 18 per cent shorter than the original M1 while the adhesive is half the thickness. This weight saving facilitates greater adjustability – by up to 25 yards on both a draw and fade bias.

The difference between the two drivers is that the M1 440 has a slightly smaller head and a deeper face.

The reshaped M1 fairway has a 450 stainless steel body,

T

aylorMade has unveiled two new balls with a fivelayer construction – the TP5 and TP5x – and both will be retailing from March 1.

The five-layer construction consists of a low-compression

DIAL M FOR TAYLORMADE the same six-layer carboncomposite crown as the M1 driver and a track system shifted towards the rear to create an open-channel speed pocket. The sole of the latest M1 rescue is engineered with a sliding weight system that not only promotes the neutral/ fade bias of its predecessor but also provides a potential draw setting.

Larger heads (seven per cent) enable the latest M2 drivers to appear and feel more forgiving.

This is achieved by a sunken sole curvature that increases overall inertia without any sacrifice in CG, trajectory or aerodynamics. In addition to the standard M2, TaylorMade has introduced the higherlaunching, draw-biased M2 D-Type driver which is more heel-weighted and offset.

A recessed six-layer carboncomposite crown, geocoustic sole design, flexible speed pocket and lighter-fluted hosel contribute to a low CG in the M2 fairway to promote fast highlaunching, low-spinning ball speeds.

And completing the M family’s licence to thrill in 2017 is the M2 rescue, which is designed to help average golfers replace a long iron with higher, longer and more draw-biased performance.

Available at retail on January 27 with the following RRPs: M2 irons – £699 or €849 (steel), £799 or €999 (graphite); M1 440 and 460 driver – £479 or €579; M1 fairway – £279 or €349; M1 rescue – £239 or €299; M2 and M2 D-Type drivers – £369 or €449; M2 fairway – £229 or €279; M2 rescue – £189 or €229.

Available at retail on March 1: M1 irons – RRPs £849 or €1,049 (steel), £1,049 or €1,249 (graphite).

For shaft, grip and loft options, see www.TaylorMadeGolf.eu

inner core in harness with a progressively stiffer outer core and mantle to promote the transfer of energy from the clubface.

The dual-spin cover has an ultra-soft urethane cover that can

be forced into wedge grooves to generate maximum spin.

The TaylorMade engineers’ goal from the outset with TP5 and TP5x was to create a product that was longer, straighter, better into the wind, and responsive

around the green. The TP5x is slightly firmer and launches higher while the TP5 has a softer feel and mid-launch trajectory.

RRP: £49.99 and €58 per dozen. www.TaylorMadeGolf.eu

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06/01/2017 17:02

SOUND BITES n Every model in Nippon Shaft’s N.S.PRO MODUS steel series featured in a PGA or European Tour victory during 2016. www.nipponshaft.com n BIG MAX is tackling golf’s toughest terrain with the four-wheel Blade Quattro push trolley. Available to order now, deliveries will start in March (RRP £279.99).

www.bigmaxgolf.co.uk n GolfBuddy has published an ‘Accuracy Checker’ that delivers exact distances over water and hazards, and to the pin, from every conceivable angle on any hole. www.gpsgolfbuddy.com n Garsen, creator of the groundbreaking G-Pro Edge grip, is now distributing

its products through Diamond Golf International. www.diamondgolf.co.uk n RolleyGolf has introduced enhancements so that its hand-built, intelligent-braking trolley can be used by golfers walking the course or riding round it. The 2017 range starts from £3,950. www.rolleygolf.com

DISTANCE AND FORGIVENESS FROM WILSON

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ilson Staff’s D300 clubs are aimed at players seeking greater distance and forgiveness, along with a confidence-boosting address.

The irons’ face technology minimises contact points to increase clubhead speed. They are available with KBS Tour steel or Matrix Rulz A-Type graphite shafts (5-9, PW, GW, SW both RH and LH).

The driver and fairway woods have an aerodynamic

head shape, fast-fit technology that eliminates the need to remove the clubhead from the shaft, an interchangeable weight that enables golfers to swing faster with the same effort, and a six-way adjustable hosel. The driver is available in 9.0o, 10.5o*and 13.0o loft options, and the fairway woods in 15° (3-wood), 18° (5-wood) and 21° (7-wood, not LH). The hybrids come in 2- to 7- (RH, ranging from 17°-31° lofts) and 3- to 5- (LH, ranging from 19°-25°

T

lofts).

“Having achieved great success with the D200 range, we wanted to push the innovation boundaries further and the new D300 range has done just that,” said Doug Wright, Wilson Golf’s global commercial director.

RRPs: Irons (5-SW) – steel £579, graphite £659; also £279 (driver), £155 (fairway wood) and £139 (hybrid). www.wilson.com

GET FIT WITH TPT

PT Golf has released a range of graphite shafts intended to produce more accurate shot dispersion, lower spin and increased distance.

Ace teacher David Leadbetter, who provided technical support during the shafts’ development, said: “In a sport where feel is everything, TPT shafts are

the most technically advanced and even make your bad shots better.”

The Omega and Sigma series of the shafts, designed to simplify the fitting process, have already been launched and a lightweight line to suit juniors, seniors and ladies is on the way. www.tptgolf.com

GIMME SHELTER!

G

/FORE has teamed up with umbrella manufacturer HaasJordan.

The 62-inch design features wind-vents on all eight panels, solid fibreglass ribs, a black braided fibreglass shaft, slipresistant ergonomic handle, and a custom epoxy dome handle

medallion.

G/FORE founder Mossimo Giannulli said: “At G/FORE, we like to combine cutting-edge fashion and technology with striking colours and designs. We like to stand out from the crowd and we’re sure these umbrellas will help us do just that. They have been well-received by

the trade and consumers, who understand they’re supposed to be fun.”

G/FORE has also launched the limited-edition Transporter golf bag which weighs 2.7kg and retails at £260. It can also carry an embroidered name or initials on the front pocket for an extra £20. www.gfore.com

SUN MOUNTAIN KEEPS AIMING HIGH

T

he lightweight H2NO Superlite carry bag is the flagship of Sun Mountain’s 2017 collection.

The brand is also offering a new premium leather collection, a Meridian travel bag addition to its Club Glider range (RRP £199) and upgrades to the Three5 and Four5 stand bags.

“The 2017 Sun Mountain bag range is packed with superlightweight, super-looking bags,” says Tony Fletcher, Brand Fusion’s UK sales manager.

“Golfers are going to love the colour combinations as well as the quality features.”

Weighing just 1.8kg, the H2NO Superlite (RRP £209) is

available in four colourways – black/tan, dark brown/khaki, navy/white/red and black/ cobalt – and has a Teflon-coated rain hood.

The leather collection, retailing from £469, will appear in March. www.brandfusionltd.co.uk

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06/01/2017 17:02

MEET THE MULTI-CLUB PRO Matthew Paget, the head professional at Royal Mid-Surrey in south-west London, now runs pro shop operations at four other golf clubs. Duncan Lennard discovers how his business works and examines the implications for the traditional club pro

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04/01/2017 16:58

W

e all know the traditional dynamic between golf clubs and their head professionals: the club pays a retainer to the pro who then runs a retail business from the club’s shop while taking on standard club duties like collecting green fees and administering competitions.

However, for PGA professional Matthew Paget things are rather different. Paget is the head pro at Royal Mid-Surrey. But he is also running the pro shops at Wyke Green in Middlesex, and the Kent trio of Walmer & Kingsdown, Cherry Lodge and, most recently, Nevill. Through his business, Matthew Paget Ltd, he is marketing himself as a golf services provider and employs more than 20 people.

Paget, now 43, got his first head pro’s position at Walmer & Kingsdown at 22, and in 2006 he was appointed the head pro at Royal Mid-Surrey – the position he credits with setting him up for expansion.

“I did my PGA training at Royal Cinque Ports under Andrew Reynolds,” Paget says. “He immersed himself in club life, and inspired me as to how to I wanted to go about things. I invested in the shop, including a studio with launch monitor – but above all I made sure the pro staff was fully integrated with the membership. We’d start them on the first tee, create questionnaires to get know them better.

“We also took club competitions to a new level, getting the PGA scoreboard in and placing mobile scoreboards around the course. Basically, we got involved with everything. Every society and even visiting fourballs had some interaction with the pro shop or our staff.”

The operation proved successful, allowing Paget to increase pro shop staff numbers to seven by 2012. “At this time, Wyke Green was looking for a new pro. I’d provided the previous pro with some stock so the club knew me, and knew what I was doing at Royal Mid-Surrey. They asked if I was interested in running their shop for them. I was pleased to accept. I installed one of my assistants, Michael Vandenberg, as head professional, and we set about mirroring the recipe that had proved so successful at Royal Mid-Surrey.”

The experiment clearly worked because the following year Walmer & Kingsdown asked Paget to perform similar duties. Cherry Lodge (pictured) followed in 2015 and Nevill announced it would use Matthew Paget Ltd as its golf services provider this autumn.

While one golf pro providing services at a range of clubs appears a major diversion from the traditional retainer-based set-up, Paget isn’t so sure. “Each club pays me a package to provide services,” he reveals. “In that regard it’s really no different from them paying a retainer to their own pro. I then pay the pro staff as my employees. We carry out all the traditional services, giving lessons, doing club repairs, collecting green fees and running competitions. We pay the heating and electric bills for the shop like any other club pro.”

Paget believes he understands why clubs have chosen to use his services as opposed to retaining a professional in the normal way.

“For starters we take all recruiting responsibilities off the club’s hands,” he says. “If their pro leaves I will simply replace him from my team. That brings a second advantage, in terms of continuity and consistency of service.”

Paget accepts he offers no financial saving for the club as such, but argues there are other benefits to using his services. He has set up mem-

bership recruitment academies, supported by Benross, at each club he has taken on, and ensures members of the pro staff play with anyone enquiring about membership. “It’s led to an average of about 20 new members per club per year,” he claims. He can also demonstrate a rise in society bookings and believes his teams have helped with retention through improving the membership experience, though he concedes it’s tough to quantify.

“I think clubs – certainly private members’ clubs – have enough on their hands simply running the club. They also tend to be run by committee. The benefit of our business is we make decisions very quickly and press on, a benefit the committee structure doesn’t necessarily promote.”

Paget also believes his staff deliver a degree of energy and creativity not always demonstrated by the retained pro. “Of course there are plenty of pros out there delivering a great service. But this is a job that demands a certain degree of passion and motivation. It’s seven days a week, 12 hours a day, and for someone to drive that you need a passion that isn’t necessarily an employed person’s passion.

“Yes, my guys are employees but they are taken on because they demonstrate motivation and passion, and placed with one eye on the bigger picture, like moving on to a head pro’s position in their own right.

We all meet up once a month to discuss, plan and make sure nothing gets missed. In this respect they are motivated, and the club’s members see an energised and inspired pro every time they step into the shop.

“It’s a generalisation, but golf clubs don’t tend to be great at motivating pros.”

The concept of one professional taking over the running of several clubs might feel alien, but Paget is making several good arguments for it. Assistants struggling for head pro positions have opportunities for advancement; clubs enjoy more business through increased memberships and society bookings; and the membership experience is enhanced through investment and the presence of an energised, motivated golf professional.

“I believe the pro is alive and flourishing despite all the recent negativity,” Paget concludes. “I just think you need to be entrepreneurial and committed to what you are doing. I am only doing what plenty of great pros across the country are already doing, but I believe the clubs that have taken me can testify that this is a formula that seems to work.”

CASE STUDY Nevill Golf Club near Royal Tunbridge Wells in Kent took on Matthew Paget Ltd this September.

General manager Frank Prescott explains why...

“This club has retained a pro in the traditional way for the past century. But when we lost our pro last May, we were determined to do something different that was fit for purpose in the modern business world. Matthew Paget Ltd ticks all the boxes.

“In my opinion, the individual professional working at a single club is a dying breed. He can’t compete. With four other shops Matthew can wield increased

buying power and deliver a wider range of product; the margins he can apply result in more attractive costs for our members.

“Employing him as a service provider also safeguards our business for the future. We no longer have responsibility for recruitment, manning hours… if someone in his operation leaves, he simply replaces from within and the business moves forward.

“Even private members’ clubs are finally realising we have to compete in an increasingly competitive market, and I believe this is the way other golf clubs will go. A retained pro becomes almost like another member of staff, with all the add-ons that comes with. But this is purely a business arrangement that appears to suit both sides. And although it is early days for us, the initial impressions are very positive.”

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06/12/2016 19:08

PEOPLE

Q&A CHECK OUT THE TOUR DEALER CONCEPT volunteers. Our strategy is to forge close relationships with customers and a feeling that together we can create success.

Managing director Thomas Knudsen explains the marketing and philosophy behind Danish apparel brand BACKTEE What is the history of BACKTEE and its relationship with golf?

BACKTEE launched in 1994 and its majority shareholder is Lars Larsen, founder of the JYSK retail chain and known in his native Denmark as the ‘Retail King’. Originally, it was a leisure brand with a loose association with golf; now it’s a 100 per cent golf-oriented company. Since committing entirely to golf, we’ve reduced the number of countries where we’re represented.

Where did the name come from?

It was a light-hearted hint that against all the big players in the golf apparel market we were playing off the back tee. You could say we’re one of several mice among big elephants, so in the crisis years after 2008 we had to think strategically about where and how there could be room in the market for BACKTEE. We were up against big global companies with massive marketing budgets, and it forced us to focus on fewer, dedicated golf products.

How would you describe BACKTEE’s golf products and the market position it’s aimed at?

It’s certainly a premium product in terms of quality of design and manufacture, and it’s aimed at the mid-tohigh-end market. But it’s not as expensive as some of its obvious competitors.

What is the set-up across the UK, Ireland and Europe in terms of management and distribution?

In the UK and Ireland, the brand’s management and distribution are in the hands of Nik Evans of Surrey-based Evolution Golf. He has seven UK agents visiting green-grass accounts, rising to 10 soon. In Germany and Austria, we have an agency based near Cologne which works exclusively for BACKTEE. This agency has four agents in Germany and one in Austria. We have one agent for the Benelux countries and we take care of Switzerland directly from Denmark, through Golfers Paradise which has our products in all its stores. We are currently looking for agents in Spain, France and Sweden. In Denmark, obviously, we have our own reps.

How is BACKTEE promoted/ marketed to retail outlets?

BACKTEE’s marketing incorporates four elements that challenge every golfer: wind, cold, sun and rain.

But BACKTEE is not limited to clothing. We also make umbrellas, belts, socks and bags. Working closely with the Made in Denmark tournament on the European Tour at Himmerland Golf & Spa Resort over the last two years has given BACKTEE a boost in both marketing and sales. We mainly supply clothing for over 1,500

Is the 100 per cent sale-orreturn concession really unique? Don’t other apparel brands offer it?

Other brands may offer it on certain promotions but BACKTEE offers it across the board through our Tour dealer concept. That, we believe, is unique. We provide a wide range of seasonal and essential collections to the pro shop and they only have to pay for what they actually sell. BACKTEE only requires a good position in the shop and that sales are reported weekly for invoicing.

The Tour dealer concept means we automatically restock and pro shops only have to pay once an item is sold. It also means, in principle, that we can deliver more stock than they can typically afford. They don’t have to pay upfront and we take back unsold stock. Shops can now report sales through an app that automatically communicates to our server.

At this point they are invoiced and their stock is replenished.

The concept is unique due to the guarantee of a 40 per cent profit throughout the sale. With other brands you normally pay for the goods and then receive a credit note when you return them, or maybe receive new goods instead of a credit note.

This means you have to finance the goods even if they’re not sold.

How long does the retailer have to shift the product before the concession doesn’t apply?

The essentials range is not seasonal so it’s an open-ended arrangement. For the seasonal ranges, once the seasons change the retailer may arrange to send back unsold product for credit, providing it is undamaged.

How quickly can retailers’ orders be turned around?

We automatically refill on the essentials range and retailers can refill themselves by using our dealer-webshop. It’s important the shops look great all season long. It also depends on the size of the order. Some customers start with around 150 pieces and some with 350 pieces.

How do you assess the current state of the golf apparel business?

Nearly all shops are trying to reduce suppliers and brands.

It’s not an easy job to make a golf shop profitable so you need to stay focused. As we want to be one of the ‘chosen ones’ we try to see the business through retailers’ eyes – what would be attractive if we ran a shop? Based on that, we have developed our Tour dealer concept. We don’t ask for a big investment up front, just a partnership of trust. We provide seasonal and essential collections to pro shops and they only have to pay for what they actually sell, so there’s no risk.

Is BACKTEE a male-only brand?

Not at all – we’re split 50-50 between ladies and men.

Who are you and how did you get into the golf industry?

I’m 44 years old and have been in the fashion industry since I was 20. I’ve played golf since I was eight and Thomas Bjorn is a good friend, and former foursomes partner. We grew up in the same town, same school and same golf club. In 2005, I started as CEO at BACKTEE and became co-owner. The golf industry was new to me at that time and also very different from the fashion industry. I try, though, to combine the fashion approach with the sports industry. www. backtee.com

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05/01/2017 12:55

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04/01/2017 13:25

PEOPLE

Q&A

three finishes in the Vokey line; Tour chrome, steel grey or jet black.

We heard a lot about ‘bounce’, now it’s ‘grind’. How important are these factors for club golfers?

Bounce and grind work hand in hand and are critical components when selecting wedges. Each of the five grinds in the SM6 line-up is in play on worldwide professional tours, and Bob’s view is that ‘bounce is your friend’. The type of player you are and the course conditions you are typically faced with will influence how much bounce you like in your wedges. The grind acts predominantly as the rudder for a wedge. Players of all skill levels will experience the difference of feel between the various grinds, and most likely have a strong preference.

SGB Golf catches up with Richard Temple, Titleist’s golf club product and fitting manager

FINDING THE RIGHT WEDGE What is Titleist’s philosophy when it comes to wedge fitting?

The general philosophy is to find the right combination of loft, bounce and grind that fits a player’s swing type and course conditions. Fitting is vitally important in every aspect of the game and when you consider the amount of shots from within 100 yards, selecting the right Vokeys for your game is imperative to give you the best chance to shoot lower scores.

What are the main benefits of wedge fitting?

We have 21 loft/bounce/grind options from 46° to 62°, covering low to high bounce through five different grinds. Having an expert fitting will ensure you have the best clubs to hit the variety of shots required from wedges. When selecting wedges, the goal for all golfers should be to maintain their ‘go to’ shot, while improving their weakest shot – this will ultimately lead to lower scores.

What are the key areas when fitting a golfer for a new wedge?

Distance gap fit: Find wedge lofts, starting with a player’s 9-iron that provide 10-15 yards between each club. This will give the player more consistent distance control.

Full swing bounce/grind selection: Evaluate a player’s swing style (steep/digger or shallow/ sweeper) and determine the best grind for their swing type.

Hitting the grinds side by side is the best way to choose the right grind.

Greenside performance: The closer you are to the green, the more important it is to have wedges that provide shot versatility to get the ball close to the hole.

Shaft, length and grip: Choice will be based around the set composition shaft you have in your irons. Bob (Vokey) often recommends a softer flex to provide additional feel on partial shots.

Finish: It’s a personal preference – choose between one of

How can a club pro best understand these factors to fit their members/customers?

We work hard to ensure that Vokey partners have all the tools in terms of product, marketing, merchandising and, most importantly, fitting knowledge. To understand the grinds, we recommend club pros hit all of the grinds side by side to feel the difference themselves.

In addition, we have Titleist University – an online portal that provides both product and fitting details.

How do you marry wedge fitting to the rest of a player’s clubs?

Wedge fitting will help a player choose the right three or four wedges to add versatility to their short game, and ultimately hit it closer to the hole and shoot lower scores. Given the

importance of the short game, spending time to be properly fitted will give players the chance to be the best they can.

Tour pros change their wedges regularly; how often do you recommend club golfers change their wedges?

Vokey wedges are protected with a localised heat treatment that doubles the durability without compromising feel, ensuring the spin degradation seen over hundreds of shots is minimal. However, over time, grooves do suffer from performance impact; after 75 rounds, players should consider testing their grooves.

Progressive CG is new for the SM6, what impact is it having?

Progressive CG is game changing in the wedge category.

Players benefit from yardage gains in longer shots and improved control on shorter shots as the CG is closer to the sweet spot, enabling more consistent performance from a variety of shots and lies. Progressive CG delivers more precise trajectory and distance control with superior feel.

What is the best wedge for playing out of compacted sand bunkers, which hundreds of courses across the UK have over the winter?

It’s player dependent. With 21 different options between loft, bounce and grind to choose from, the solution is to compare and see which wedge works best from the prevailing sand conditions. As always, try before you buy and, where possible, our preferred route for golfers serious about their game is to get fitted by an expert. www.titleist.co.uk

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05/01/2017 13:02

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04/01/2017 13:29

DEVELOPMENT

PLACES

CORKING IDEA AT VINTAGE CLUB

T

he new owners of a prominent south of England golf club have reduced one of its two 18-hole courses to nine holes and are preparing the land to farm a vineyard instead.

Mannings Heath Golf Club & Wine Estate, as the 500-acre property near Horsham in West Sussex is now styled, was acquired by a South African group, Benguela Cove, last April.

Benguela Cove, a wine estate south-east of Cape Town, is owned by healthcare recruitment entrepreneur Penny Streeter and she has installed her son Adam as general manager at Mannings Heath.

“My mother was originally from Zimbabwe and later lived in South Africa, but she started her company (A24) over here in my grandmother’s dining room in Mitcham,” said Streeter.

“Later she had an office in Sutton before moving the business 12 years ago to South Africa – first to Johannesburg, then to Cape Town.

“While in Cape Town she bought the Benguela Cove wine estate in Hermanus after it had

got into difficulties. In addition to the vineyards, the estate includes two restaurants and a small hotel. Overnight we went from being recruiters to farmers and vintners, with a lot of competition – on the Garden Route, there’s a wine estate on virtually every corner.

“Then we got to the point where we thought ‘let’s look to do this back home in the UK’. My stepfather said, ‘what about golf courses? They have the land, the scenery, the infrastructure and, most importantly, members who enjoy a drink.’ It was very much our target audience.

“Someone suggested Mannings Heath. It had been up for sale for a while and the standard of greenkeeping was not up to scratch – too much land to look after for too small a staff. We decided to upgrade everything, including the clubhouse.

“This was originally an 18th century mansion in Horsham so it’s bizarre to think how they managed to dismantle it, transport it across five miles or so to here and then reconstruct

it. Strangely, it’s not listed.

“The estate, which also has a big fishing lake, was owned once by Lady Latilla Campbell, who coincidentally was also Zimbabwean, and it was a bit of a Downton Abbey type set-up.”

The main course at Mannings Heath, which dates back to 1905 as a golf club, is the Waterfall.

The Kingfisher, in contrast, is more popular with visitors.

The new Kingfisher layout now consists of the original 1st, 4th-8th, 10th and 11th with holes 2 and 3 merged into a par-5.

The old 9th is now a practice area while the land occupied by the 12th to 18th will form the vineyard.

“When we came in, we had to do soil tests and run our ideas past the members. Most were in favour and the general feeling was the Kingfisher would be better as a par-36, nine-hole course catering for visitors, beginners, youngsters and people who didn’t have time for 18.

“The Waterfall always was and still is the main course. As a result, the greens and fairways

are in the best condition they’ve been in for years.

“We’ve got plans for more function facilities and we might take out the tennis courts which no one uses except for Wimbledon fortnight and relocate the pro shop so it is in a more welcoming position. We want to reopen the spike bar in the basement and we’ve also got a new chef.

“We’re planting cover crops at the moment to prepare the soil for vines and to break up the existing roots. I think the cover crops are mostly turnips, radishes and mustard. Then we’ll dig them up in March and plant the vines in April – Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay.

“Our winemaster in South Africa has handpicked the vines he wants to grow and we’re also using a consultant to advise us about testing, planting and picking. We’ll start bottling two years from then, but we won’t start drinking them for a further three years, so the whole thing is a five-year project.

“There are quite a few vineyards in this part of the world – in Sussex, Surrey and Kent. It’s a little bit harder with the climate and winter frosts, but certainly not impossible. I think people will be very surprised with what we produce – it’s all very exciting.

“In the meantime, we’ve got a healthy supply of wines from Benguela Cove at the club and we’re very keen on giving members cellar-door prices for cases and organising tastings for them – cheese and wine, chocolate and wine – not to mention a lot of fine dining.” n Former captain Ian Jaggard (pictured right with Streeter) is the club’s new president. “We are grateful to Ian for taking on the role,” Streeter said. “His knowledge of and commitment to the club and its membership made him the ideal choice as an ambassador and to provide guidance to our board and officers.” www.manningsheath.com

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04/01/2017 10:20 13:30 07/11/2016

APPAREL

NEWS CROSS SPORTSWEAR FULFILS TWIN DEMANDS

T

he twin demands of function and fashion have driven Cross Sportswear’s brand since it was launched 30 years ago.

The Swedish company places performance at the heart of its designs, utilising technical fabrics that allow wearers to play – and look – their best in all conditions.

Cross’s SS17 men’s collection provides freedom of movement and physiological support, as well as protection from the elements.

The range features a wide range of natural materials, including cotton, wool and bamboo charcoal, as well man-made fibres like polyester and nylon. All of the items are made from stretchable and breathable fabrics while modern fits and clear-cut design are complemented by a colourful palette in easy mixand-match combinations.

The polo shirt range features eight different designs.

The Classic polo has eight bold, single-block colours, including red, raspberry, charcoal, navy and red. Featuring built-in UV protection (UPF 30-50+) and a moisture management system, they are quick drying, 100 per cent breathable, require no ironing and are available in sizes S-XXXL. The Style polo (S-XXL in plum, navy and white) boasts a more athletic, fitted design with moisture-wicking properties

and small, button-down collars.

The long-sleeve polo suits those seeking to avoid excessive exposure to the sun and comes in white or navy (S-XXL) while the Big Logo polo (also S-XXL), featuring the Cross crest on the left chest, is made from a polyester/bamboo charcoal mix and comes in five colours (sky, plum, green, white and navy).

For those in search of extra detailing, the Punch polo features broad multicoloured stripes across the upper half of the body and the Fade polo features a colour split front and back, with charcoal/white, white/blue and navy/white options. Made from 90 per cent polyester with 10 per cent spandex, the Fade delivers the benefit of extra shape retention.

The Geo Stripe polo, made from 55 per cent polyester and 45 per cent bamboo charcoal, offers a narrow fit and comes in navy, raspberry, white and sky (S-XXL).

And then there’s the Proud Polo, which, as its name suggests, parades edgy print designs featuring colours splashes, dots, and horizontal stripes in a range of bold colourways.

Cross’s trousers and shorts, including the H2OFF Bryon and Ace ranges, come in sky, green, charcoal, plum, raspberry, navy, birch, and white (shorts only). www.cross-sportswear.com

ULTRALITE’S THE NAME OF PUMA’S GAME

P

UMA Golf’s SS17 collection, available from February 1, has a cutting edge that offers re-imagined essentials, next-generation materials, sophisticated detailing and a fun colour palate.

The innovative material story in the men’s and women’s selections in polos, trousers and outerwear is Ultralite, a breathable product that is up to 30 per cent lighter than prior fabrics, delivers moisture management and is minimally constructed.

“We are uniquely positioned to deliver on-trend, high performing, stylish clothing to the golf world,” said Kristin

Hinze, head of apparel at PUMA Golf. “Our Spring Summer 17 collection takes the best of what is happening in fashion and street wear and fuses it with technical elements that enhance on-course performance while ensuring a look that works from the first tee to the office and everywhere in between.”

This includes revamped men’s trousers even if they don’t exactly look like golf trousers, rejecting, as they do, the traditional shiny fabric and draped fit in favour of a curved waistband, for maximum range of motion, in both tailored and performance fits.

The graphics and colour

offerings are also evolving to embrace a wider array of style preferences. “As the careers of Rickie Fowler and Lexi Thompson evolve, and with the addition of Bryson DeChambeau as one of our key style icons going forward, we have achieved much more balance in our colour and designs,” said Hinze. “It is our goal to provide our athletes with the finest performance available in designs that are true to their own personal style.”

With weather protection in mind, the fully seam-sealed Storm Jacket Pro utilises 20,000mm waterproof fabric while the accompanying trousers feature the same

technical fabrications along with an elastic waistband and adjustable length.

The SS17 caps are also headturning – from Fowler’s flat-brim GOTIME to DeChambeau’s distinctive TourDriver, not to mention the new Tech Lite for women. PUMA’s belts range from a cut-to-length, reversible leather offering to bolder, colour-coordinating options. www.cobragolf.co.uk

24 24_Apparel_News.indd 2

06/01/2017 17:08

GALES OF LAUGHTER IN BEDLAM

T

railblazing blind golfer Jim Gales claimed it was love at first sight after donning Bedlam Golf’s outrageous trousers before joking: “I thought they were black!”

The secretary and founder of the Scottish Disability Golf Partnership unveiled his new look during the recent EDGA Algarve Open at Pestana Vila Sol in Vilamoura.

Gales said: “I went out to the range to hit some shots and got a few comments about my smart new trousers. I thought it was a bit strange – my wife had told me they were black.

As it turns out, Bedlam don’t do black trousers. But I certainly got plenty of attention and I

love them. I suppose you could say I’ve seen the light!”

The 52-year-old Scot had never played golf before losing his sight to Retinitis Pigmentosa in the late 1980s. His vision is now restricted to just light perception but it has not stopped him from registering 10 victories in disability golf events around the world.

He said: “It probably helps not to see the trouble off the tee sometimes. Mind you, it doesn’t stop me lifting my head on my swing.”

Gales has received an MBE for services to disability golf and his dress sense earned him another impromptu honour as the best-dressed golfer at the

prize-giving ceremony.

Pete Wilson, managing director of Bedlam Golf, said: “Jim’s exactly our type of golfer.

He plays for fun, likes to stand out from the crowd and doesn’t take it too seriously. We’ll send him some more black, grey and beige colour schemes in due course. At least, that’s what we’ve told him!”

Made in a slim-fit design from a polyester/spandex blend, the trousers come in a variety of designs and are available up to a 42-inch waist, starting from £34.99. Also available are shirts (from £24.99), hats, gloves, belts, and a junior range. Delivery is free for orders over £60. www.bedlam-golf.com

L AMY GOES ‘HEAD TO TOE’ WITH SKECHERS

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POWERBAND BOA BOOST

he new Powerband Boa Boost shoes from adidas Golf are packed with multiple design innovations to enhance comfort and stability.

These include Boost cushioning, a custom-fit L6 Boa closure system on the top-centre tongue, a Powercage saddle, a climaproof, seamlessstretch, microfibre leather upper, a six-spike thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) outsole construction and strategically placed secondary sole lugs.

Available throughout Europe from February 1, the Powerband Boa Boost will come in five colourways and medium or wide widths at an MSRP of £129.95. www.adidas.co.uk

adies European Tour starlet Amy Boulden has signed a ‘head to toe’ global deal to wear and market Skechers’ GO GOLF footwear and apparel.

“Golf footwear and comfort is something I’ve struggled with during the last few seasons but from the moment I tried the GO GOLF line I experienced comfort like never before,” said the 23-year-old from north Wales, who will showcase the collection throughout the 2017 LET season.

Gales with caddie Alan Robertson

“The brand fits my style perfectly. I enjoy matching my shoes to my outfits and becoming a brand ambassador for Skechers means I now have the ability to put together some great looks!”

Peter Youell, Skechers UK & Ireland managing director, said: “Amy has shown her ability with her achievements so far and we look forward to working with her as she progresses.” www.skechers.com

HOME OF GOLF TURNS JAPANESE

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t Andrews Links, which operates the courses at the Home of Golf, has entered into a worldwide agreement with Asian apparel company, TSI Holdings Ltd. TSI will exclusively design, manufacture and retail official fashion and apparel collections using the St Andrews Links family of brands, including Tom Morris.

Based in Tokyo, TSI has brought numerous apparel lines to the Asian market, including Margaret Howell, Stussy, Callaway Apparel, Jill Stuart and Diane Von Furstenburg.

Euan Loudon, chief executive of St Andrews Links, said:

“TSI has demonstrated a true understanding of the values and symbolism of this special place. We are all immensely excited to see the debut collections later this year and we look forward to seeing our partnership evolve and flourish over time.”

Manabu Senza, president of TSI Groove & Sports, said: “We believe every golfer dreams of playing at St Andrews Links – we share that passion and look forward to launching the debut collections.”

These will be unveiled to retailers in 2017 and available in store across Japan, Asia and other territories in 2018. www.standrews.com

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05/01/2017 15:31

ACCESSORIES

NEWS

WOODY GOODIES AT GOODWOOD

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RG has created a range of canvas accessories for Golf at Goodwood in West Sussex.

The collection includes a tote bag and head covers for woods and putters. The canvas finish, colours and logos deliver a retro style that suits Goodwood’s heritage and complements its unique Woody buggies.

“I spoke to Ian Dudman at PRG and after some creative

brainstorming we came up with the idea for the canvas collection,” said Jennifer Frost, Golf at Goodwood’s retail manager. “It fits our brand perfectly. Customers will soon be able to purchase this collection online through the Goodwood website – an exciting addition to our retail offering.” www.prgolfonline.com and www.goodwood.com

GARMIN STRENGTHENS FOREMOST TIES

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istance-measuring device brand Garmin is now a supplier partner for Foremost Golf’s elite marketing programme (EMP).

In this role, Garmin will market its products to Foremost members via newsletters, articles, store signage and website/video content.

Members can also benefit from a 24/7 ordering process, with next-day delivery available from Monday to Friday using Garmin’s dealer resource centre. Since Garmin became an approved supplier 18 months ago, more than 500 Foremost members have placed orders.

The new arrangement also enables members to become preferred dealers with a free in-

store point-of-sale facility and a training/merchandising visit from a Garmin executive.

Additional member benefits include a 50 per cent discount on the cost of demo stock and a personal-use discount code for golf, cycling, running, wellness or satellite navigation purchases.

An initial stock commitment will be two Approach S20s, two Approach X40s and one Approach G8, with a total cost of £541.38 (excluding VAT) and a retail value of £1,089.95.

Julie Benford, Garmin Europe’s recreational sales manager, said: “The Elite Marketing Programme works perfectly with our productordering dealer resource centre.

We look forward to working

with many more Foremost members and growing sales in pro shops in 2017.”

Foremost director Andy Martin said: “We’re delighted Garmin will provide our members with a complete retail solution from online ordering and replenishment to in-store marketing support.” * The Approach X40 is Garmin’s smallest and lightest golf GPS device. Discreet on the

TRION:Z IN THE ZEN LOOP

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ifestyle-inspired Zen loop wristbands are the latest hi-tech products from Trion:Z Colantotte.

The bracelets, inspired by climbing ropes, combine high levels of negative ions with two or four magnet options and a patented alternating northsouth polarity orientation.

Trion:Z Colantotte’s EU CEO Paul Hendry said: “The Zen Loop offers a comfortable and relaxed fit, plus its fashionable design makes it perfect for everyday use.”

The wristband is manufactured with a braided cord to withstand

high-performance play and everyday use. The brushed stainless steel clasps are offered in silver and black matt, and the cord is available in a choice of colours.

Trion:Z aims to provide powerful alternative therapy with a range of benefits like reduced pain, improved performance and increased mobility. www.trionz.com

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wrist, it comes preloaded with data for 40,000 courses. It also records heart rates, calories burned, distance walked, time of day and hours of sleep, and can link up with compatible smartphones for incoming calls, texts, emails, calendar reminders and social-media alerts. SRP: £199.99. www.garmin.com and www.foremostgolf.com

INNOVATION FROM TWISTED FROG

nglo-French brand Twisted Frog has unveiled an innovative range of accessories spearheaded by the DivA threeprong divot-repair tool that features a push-button opening system, magnetic ball marker and putter rest.

Other new products that Twisted Frog will display at the PGA Merchandise Show later this month include the Mini Tri-Fold golf towel, the Extreme Beanie hat, made from a double layer of knitted yarn and fully lined with an acrylic fleece, and the Air Pad – a self-inflating air

bed that can be unpacked and ready to use in seconds.

Twisted Frog managing director Ewan Davidson said: “The aim of Twisted Frog is to apply the best of UK innovation combined with French design flair to the golf accessories market.”

TwistedFrog.co.uk

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04/01/2017 13:32

PEOPLE

NEWS

FACELIFTS n John Karsten Solheim, the oldest son of chairman and CEO John A. Solheim and grandson of founder Karsten Solheim, has succeeded Doug Hawken as president of PING. John K., as he is known within the company, was executive vice-president for the last two years following a four-year assignment as president of PING Golf Japan.

HELEN & MARK ON BOARD

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he Ladies European Tour has appointed Helen Alfredsson as player president and Mark Lichtenhein as Board chairman.

Alfredsson, who played on eight European Solheim Cup teams and served as captain in 2007, will act as a bridge between the Board and LET members.

The 51-year-old Swede won 21 times worldwide, including the 1993 Nabisco Dinah Shore, the 1990 Women’s British Open and three Evian Masters titles.

Lichtenhein, who worked for the European Tour for 16 years and helped to develop its website and global TV product, will be responsible for extending the LET’s international business activities.

The LET Board now comprises CEO Ivan Khodabakhsh , Alfredsson and player directors Beth Allen, Sophie GiquelBettan, Rebecca Hudson, Trish Johnson and Pamela Pretswell. The non-executive directors are Lichtenhein, Vivek Batra and Michael Siebold.

MORLEY TAKES CHARGE OF BGIA

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he British Golf Industry Association has appointed former MacGregor and Adams Golf sales and marketing manager Philip Morley as its first independent executive chair.

Morley, a PGA member and a business consultant, has a remit to lead the BGIA’s strategic direction.

Outgoing chair Nigel Freemantle said: “Philip brings a powerful combination of expertise, insight and experience from both the golf industry and the wider business world. I’m confident the BGIA will benefit enormously from his fresh thinking.”

H

Morley said: “It’s important that as the golf industry’s leading trade association, the BGIA is a forward-looking, thoughtleading, contemporary organisation with clear goals. We want to build effective alliances with other organisations that are working to grow the game.” * The BGIA’s umbrella body, the Federation of the European Sporting Goods Industry (FESI), has re-elected its managing director Jane Montgomery to its Board of directors. www.bgia.org.uk and www.sportsandplay.com

HAROLD SWASH RIP

arold Swash, Britain’s self-styled ‘Putting Doctor’, has died aged 83.

Coach to many of Europe’s greatest golfers, including Sir Nick Faldo, Padraig Harrington, Darren Clarke and Lee Westwood, Swash worked within the sport for more than 40 years.

A long-time member of Hillside Golf Club in Lancashire, he hailed

from Birmingham and designed his first putter in the early 1960s.

At the 1998 Masters, he collapsed with a ruptured aortic aneurysm and only survived thanks to quick-thinking medical personnel.

A designer of training aids as well as putters, Swash originally worked as a production engineer before switching to golf.

n The PGA has appointed Tristan Crew, a former Lieutenant Colonel in the British army, as executive director – member services. Robert Maxfield, the PGA’s deputy chief executive, said: “Over many years in the military, Tristan has demonstrated his skill and dedication to delivering much-needed support to our injured troops.” n Ian Martin has been named ECCO Golf’s first full-time UK employee. The former assistant professional, who went on to work for TGI Golf as a retail consultant, has joined the Danish shoemaker as UK golf sales manager. n Hideyuki “Rock” Ishii is the new director of Callaway’s advanced golf-ball research division. Ishii, who has 25 years of product development experience, including 15 with Nike, has worked on ball design and fitting with 25 Major winners. Dr Alan Hocknell, Callaway’s R&D vice-president, said: “Rock will strengthen our ability to investigate new construction methods and improve our evaluation of golf ball performance.” n Benoit Vincent is stepping down as chief technical officer of R&D after a 27-year career with TaylorMade Golf. He will be succeeded by 22-year company veteran Todd Beach. n The 2016 PGA Pro-Captain Challenge, at Lumine Mediterránea Beach Club & Golf Community in eastern Spain, was won by Derbyshire club Kedleston Park, represented by its professional Ian Walley and captain Richard Smith. n Steve Robinson, the head professional at Sandburn Hall GC in York, has been named 2016 coach of the year by England Golf for helping the national women’s team become European champions for the first time in 23 years.

Alan Thompson, former professional at Heswall GC, received a lifetime service award for his work with Cheshire and England men’s A squad. n Ian Berry and Mark Lloyd have been appointed directors of golf by Macdonald Hotels & Resorts. Lloyd has taken over at the group’s Hill Valley complex in Shropshire while Berry is now in charge at Portal in Cheshire.

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06/01/2017 17:16

NEW TREATMENT FOR GOLF NURSE

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arly Booth, a Ladies European Tour starlet who enjoys additional fame as Golf Punk’s official golf nurse, has signed an equipment, apparel and footwear contract with COBRA PUMA GOLF. The 24-year-old Scot will be joining a fold of players that includes Lexi Thompson, Blair O’Neil, Rickie Fowler, Jonas Blixt and Bryson DeChambeau.

“I’ve heard some great things

KO IS OK WITH ECCO

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omen’s world No.1 Lydia Ko has joined footwear company ECCO Golf as a brand ambassador.

The 19-year-old New Zealander will wear the new women’s BIOM G2 model on the LPGA and LET circuits and showcase the ECCO logo on her collar.

Winner of 18 Tour victories, including two Majors, Ko joins a stable of thoroughbred

I

an Poulter received a recognition award for his outstanding contribution to the game at the pre-Christmas PGA lunch in central London.

The 41-year-old Ryder Cup hero, pictured with PGA captain Nicky Lumb, followed in the footsteps of previous winners Seve Ballesteros, Sir Nick Faldo and Colin Montgomerie.

Among the 1,050 guests at

N

ike Golf has signed men’s world No.1 Jason Day to a multi-year contract to wear its footwear, apparel, headwear and gloves.

“Joining Nike is a dream come true,” the 29-year-old Australian said. “The brand is synonymous with the world’s best athletes. I’m honoured and can’t wait to be part of the team.”

Daric Ashford, president of

GARCIA ACADEMY STILL THRIVING

golf stars that includes Fred Couples, Ernie Els and Thomas Bjorn.

Jesper Thuen, responsible for global sponsorship at ECCO Golf, said: “What Lydia has achieved since turning professional just a few years ago is nothing short of astonishing. We couldn’t be more excited to have her representing the ECCO Golf brand.” golf.ecco.com

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the Grosvenor House hotel was Lee Scarbrow – the PGA pro who gave him his first start as an assistant.

“Lee was my boss at Leighton Buzzard,” said Poulter. “If it wasn’t for him I probably wouldn’t be where I am today.

It’s amazing to think I worked for such a good guy who saw potential in me as a player, although probably not as the

assistant opening the shop on time otherwise I would have been fired a long time ago.

“To come through those days as a fully qualified PGA member as a stepping stone to where I’ve managed to get to in the world of golf is incredible so I’m hugely honoured to be given the award.”

DAY FOLLOWS NIKE Nike Golf, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Jason to our team. He’s an incredible player who has demonstrated tremendous work ethic and amazing resilience over the course of his career.”

Since turning pro in 2006, Day has secured ten PGA Tour titles, including the 2015 USPGA Championship, and 57 top-ten finishes. www.nike.com

about the golf clubs, and over the years Rickie and Lexi have worn the brand well,” she said.

“The gear is great. I’ve always liked it and it’s nice to be part of the family.”

UK and Ireland general manager Mark Freeman said: “Carly is a great ambassador.

She has a great personality, and her love and dedication to fitness mirrors that of the COBRA PUMA GOLF brand.” www.cobragolf.co.uk

ergio Garcia recently returned to PGA Catalunya Resort near Barcelona to mark the fifth anniversary of the opening of his junior golf academy.

The academy, set up in the Ryder Cup stalwart’s name to coach Spanish stars of the future, caters for as many as 35 juniors, from age five upwards, during its Saturday morning sessions.

Garcia, who has just turned 37, said: “Every year I come back to PGA Catalunya Resort, there are more kids from all walks of life going through my academy and having fun. They are getting better and are the people who will carry the game for the next 20-30 years. I’ve been very fortunate in both golf and my life – and I wanted to give something back.” www.pgacatalunya.com

www.pga.info

STENSON STEPS OUT IN SHADES

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pen champion Henrik Stenson has launched his own range of sunglasses, developed specifically for golfers.

Henrik Stenson Eyewear, which will debut at the PGA Merchandise Show later this month, has a wrap-around design with Powereye lens technology that staves off the sun’s harmful rays and is optimised for golf performance.

Stenson, who suffers from allergies related to sunlight sensitivity, said: “I know how important it is to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses that are suited to the task.

Playing golf entails exposure to hazardous sunlight and reflections for hours at a time, so eye protection is essential, especially for children.” henrikstensoneyewear.com

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05/01/2017 16:45

NEWS

G4L WINDFALL AT LORD’S

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early £21,000 was raised for the Golfing4Life (G4L) charity from an auction held during the fifth annual Club Leadership Summit in the Long Room at Lord’s cricket ground.

Formed five years ago to support the development of young golfers whose opportunities are limited by

APP TO CONNECT GOLFERS

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olfers in the Home Counties can now find playing partners via the My Circle Golf app for both iOS and Android.

The app, which connects likeminded golfers across southeast England, was created by Cambridge graduate Gian Paolo

Ziletti, who found it difficult to find fellow golfers when he first moved to the UK from Italy.

He said: “I’m a really keen golfer and I was frustrated. I felt it should be simple because so many times I was keen to play but was without a partner.

“So it began as a personal

CLUB OWNERS BACK GET INTO GOLF

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leven groups that between them operate more than 100 UK golf clubs are throwing their weight behind the Get into Golf campaign.

The companies are: Burhill Group Ltd, Crown, The Club Company, Cranfield Golf, Everyone Active, Glendale,

Marriott, Maple Leaf, Mytime Active, Topgolf and QHotels.

Get into Golf is supported by the home unions of England, Scotland and Wales, the European Tour, the Ladies European Tour, the PGA, the Golf Foundation, the R&A and Sky Sports. It offers taster sessions and beginner courses

financial constraints, G4L uses its network and contacts to identify and nurture underprivileged talent.

“The money raised will really make a difference for us going forward,” said G4L founder James Byers (pictured right with Club Inc.’s Niall Flanagan).

www.Golfing4Life.com

crusade – selfishly, I wanted to find people to play with and it grew from that. Now, the finished product allows golfers like me to visit new courses and meet new partners.”

Available from the Apple app and Google Play stores, My Circle Golf is free to download.

Plans are under way for a nationwide roll-out in 2017. www.mycirclegolf.com

on its website to golf clubs and PGA professionals, together with follow-on activities and introductory membership packages.

In 2016, the website attracted more than 713,500 visitors in the six months to September.

Some 730 golf clubs promoted more than 13,000 activities

across England, leading to around 32,500 newcomers for the game.

Clubs and ranges, working with their county development officers, can also maximise their spending on marketing.

She worked for EDGA in its role as official charity during the 2016 Portugal Masters at Vilamoura and also at the organisation’s general assembly and Algarve Open last month at Pestana Vila Sol Golf Resort. www.edgagolf.com

accumulated knowledge and expertise of ICG members sets benchmarks for excellence in our profession.”

ICG members fit and make clubs for elite golfers – from top Tour players to accomplished amateurs.

Ariya Jutanugarn of Thailand, who won the Ricoh Women’s British Open at Woburn en route to topping the LPGA money list for 2016, had her shafts fitted by one ICG member and her clubs built by another.

www.getintogolf.org and www.englandgolf.org

IN BRIEF n The Parliamentary Golf Group has repeated its opposition to the closure of Beckenham Place Park, once England’s busiest public course.

Assisted by the Heritage Lottery Fund, owners Lewisham Council want to ‘regenerate’ the south-east London property by converting it into a community park despite vociferous local opposition.

Group chairman Karl McCartney MP said: “It is saddening the course has already been closed, preventing access to the sport to those who cannot afford or access it at

private courses.

“The powers that be are happy to ignore the current users and follow a small clique of Lewisham politicians who remarkably wish to be seen as modern-day Capability Browns, reconstituting a landed-gentry country park that cannot sit comfortably with their socialist ideals.” www.parliamentary.golf n Jana Brabnikova, from the Czech Republic, has joined the European Disabled Golf Association (EDGA) as an executive assistant.

n International Clubmakers Guild, an organisation owned and run by its members, has attracted 81 new members over the past year.

“Golf is expanding in some parts of the world and resurging in others,” said guild president Jacques Intriere. “The

www.clubfittersguild.org

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06/01/2017 17:18

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03/01/2017 21:33

05/01/2017 17:58

NEWS

D

enis Pugh, the Sky Sports analyst and coach to numerous Tour players, will lead the line up for TGI Golf’s annual business conference at The Belfry next month.

Pugh, who has worked with more than 200 professionals, will discuss his teaching philosophies as well as tell tales about life on Tour and in television studios.

The conference, from

PUGH TO SPEARHEAD TGI CONFERENCE February 7-8, enables TGI partners to hone their skills as they gear up for the season.

“I’m honoured to be the guest speaker,” said Pugh. “It will be a great opportunity to meet and discuss my experiences and methodologies with so many PGA professionals.”

As well as Pugh there will be seminars involving Diamond Golf International, Trackman, Titleist, email marketing specialists Campaign Monitor,

Syngenta and Crossover Technologies. Adele McLean, TGI Golf’s group services manager, said: “Denis’s depth of coaching knowledge will no doubt give partners a wealth of ideas to take back to their own businesses. And once again we are indebted to Callaway for helping to make this happen.”

The TGI Golf awards will be presented on the evening of February 7 to PGA professionals and suppliers

who have excelled over the last 12 months. www.tgigolf.com

ZEN HEADING FOR IRELAND

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he Irish Golf Expo at CityWest Hotel, Dublin on February 25-26 will feature a computer-controlled Zen Green Stage so golfers can practise an almost infinite variety of sharp-breaking putts at the push of a button.

Developed by Sheffieldbased putting specialists Zen, this cutting-edge technology is used by several leading coaches, including Phil Kenyon, Jon Karlsen, Christian Marquardt and Paul Hurrion. www.irishgolfexpo.com

IT’S A BEAUTIFUL HOLE

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rickendon Grange has beaten nine other clubs to be crowned the home of the UK’s greatest golf hole.

The Hertfordshire club won a competition judged by Brendon Pyle, chief executive of the Golf Foundation, and Michael Coffey, publisher of The Golf Club

Secretary, and supported by BusinessInsuranceFor.com.

The winning hole was the 417-yard, par-4 17th (pictured), just edging out the 16th at Robin Hood GC in Birmingham and the 10th at Murrayfield GC in Edinburgh.

BusinessInsuranceFor. com donated £500 to the

Golf Foundation and its head of affinity operations, Kevin MacKenzie, said: “It was a close call between the finalists, but Brickendon Grange’s 17th strikes the perfect balance between challenge and beauty.” www.BusinessInsuranceFor.com and www.golf-foundation.org

in Worcestershire, Nene Park Golf Club in Cambridgeshire and Norwood Park Golf Centre in Nottinghamshire address their experiences with BBC presenter and self-confessed golf nut Naga Munchetty. www.golfbic.com

overall set of revisions to the Rules of Golf.”

Committees wishing to invoke the new local rule, should take heed of the following wording: “Rules 18-2, 18-3 and 20-1 are modified as follows: When a player’s ball lies on the putting green, there is no penalty if the ball or ballmarker is accidentally moved by the player, his partner, his opponent, or any of their caddies or equipment. The moved ball or ball-marker must be replaced as provided in Rules 18-2, 18-3 and 20-1.

“Note: If it is determined that a player’s ball on the putting green was moved as a result of wind, water or some other natural cause such as the effects of gravity, the ball must be played as it lies from its

IN BRIEF n Everyone agrees that driving participation is the golf industry’s top priority, but how exactly does a golf course owner, operator, manager or professional go about doing that?

England Golf launched its ‘Get into Golf’ programme four years ago, and since then many newcomers have been attracted to the game.

Now the UK Golf Course Owners’ Association (UKGCOA) will team up with three clubs to share their success stories at GolfBIC 2017, which takes place from January 17-18 at Harrogate International Centre, during the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition (BTME).

The session will be an open forum where representatives from Bromsgrove Golf Centre

n Following the Dustin Johnson debacle during the last round of the 2016 US Open at Oakmont, the R&A and USGA have introduced a new local rule that eliminates the penalty when a ball accidentally moves on the putting green.

David Rickman, executive director-governance at the R&A, said: “Both committees agreed it needed to be changed and decided it was important to act now, through a local rule, rather than wait for the next

new location. A ball-marker moved in such circumstances is replaced.” www.RandA.org n A new EU directive could lead to the introduction of thirdparty motor insurance policies for golf buggies even if their use is confined to privately-owned property.

The Department for Transport says the proposed change could also end the statutory offroad notification (Sorn) scheme permitting uninsured cars to be kept on driveways.

The DfT is legally obliged to consult on the scheme, a process that will end in March, but it is likely to insert a ‘sunset clause’ so the new rule can be abolished when the UK leaves the EU.

32 32_Event_News.indd 2

06/01/2017 18:34

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MULLIGAN

THE INDEPENDENT VOICE

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o farewell, then, 2016! Out with the old, in with the new!

But what will be new in 2017 for the venerable game of golf?

The first bit of news, good or bad, will come shortly with the announcement of Muirfield’s latest ballot on whether to admit female members.

But first, a word of warning… the men of the ludicrously entitled Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers are a stubborn bunch and unlikely to be swayed by haranguing from the Scottish Government’s equalities secretary, Angela Constance, let alone a cattle prod from their own captain and committee.

Constance recently opined: “Muirfield’s current position is quite simply wrong and indefensible. This is 21st century

Scotland – with kindness, can I say to Muirfield it’s time to get out of the dark ages and enter and embrace the 21st century, because opening their membership up to women is not only the right thing to do, this is the smart thing to do as well. This is bad for the club, bad for the local economy and it’s time for Muirfield to do the right thing.”

She’s absolutely right, of course, especially as £80m for the aforementioned local economy is riding on the vote, but I can’t think of a statement more guaranteed to rile the reactionaries of East Lothian. Thus, Muirfield’s chances any time soon of hosting another Open – a tournament its course was created to stage in 1892 – must now again hang in the balance.

Shortly after the dust settles on that vote (and who would dare predict the result of any election ever again?) there will be the inevitable debate about the future of Trump

Turnberry as an Open venue.

Last summer, the R&A were obviously pretty certain that the Donald would fall short of the Presidency and felt emboldened to cold-shoulder Trump Turnberry with some ill-advised sabre-rattling. From their customary moral tower, the posh pontificators of Fife were not only registering a disapproving reaction to some controversial campaign comments made by Trump, but they were also belittling the millions he’d spent on a superb facelift to one of the world’s great golf courses.

Now Trump’s ascent to the White House is a fact, what is the R&A to do? Under normal circumstances, a golf-playing President, especially one with a single-figure handicap and whom the late, great Arnold Palmer, no less, regarded in the highest esteem, would be offered honorary membership at the very least.

But nothing about this is normal. Apart from Turnberry, Trump also owns the course north of Aberdeen that has triggered numerous spats between him and the Scottish Parliament (them again!).

Intriguingly, several of Trump’s staunchest Twitter congratulations after winning the American election came from prominent members of the LPGA – Cristie Kerr and Suzann Pettersen spring to mind. Whatever else he might be, and Hillary Clinton’s campaign portrayed him as a misogynist if not worse, it seems some of his best friends are top lady golfers.

The R&A, now enjoying holy matrimony with the Ladies’ Golf Union, are in a quandary. According to the current pecking order, Turnberry should be granted the 2021 Open.

That decision will have to be made soon because it’s obvious the 2020 championship will be held at St Andrews.

What an irony if it goes instead to Royal St George’s, a club that had to be dragged into the world of equality only a couple of years ago through gritted teeth.

But Theresa May is keen to suck up to Trump and she will not allow a pompous, self-appointed oligarchy to upset the only apple cart she’s got going for her in the wake of Brexit.

Nor will she allow the Scottish Parliament to tweak her wannabe ally’s nose – at least as long as it remains within the jurisdiction of the Union.

For political commentators, it will all be fun and games in 2017. For golf, and the people whose livelihoods depend on it, though, it’s more serious than that. We need some realpolitik, not pie in the sky from posturing blazerati on shooting sticks and points-scoring politicians on inflation-proof salaries.”

Mulligan

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05/01/2017 17:41

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