Worldwide Golf April 2016

Worldwide Golf The Middle East’s No.1 Golf Magazine

MAY 2016, ISSUE 181

TRAVEL SPECIAL

PLAY GOLF IN SCOTLAND DAVID HOWELL

THE GAME HAS CHANGED

Matthew

Fitzpatrick Talks about his Masters boost and shows how to swing under pressure PETE COWEN

RYDER CUP COULD BE CLOSE

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BANISH SLICES AND SNAP

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Worldwide Golf Columist

WHAT A WEEK FOR WILLETT

By Gary Player, Worldwide Golf Executive Editor since 1999

W

HAT a week that was at last month’s Masters. It all began with a very moving, emotional moment with Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and me together again as ‘The Big Three’ on the first tee in the Par-3 Contest, as we have done for many years as Honourary Starters of the tournament.

Sadly, Arnold was not able to hit his ceremonial tee shot but Jack and I teed off and I dedicated my drive to Arnold. It was gratifying that I managed to outdrive Jack with a nice tee shot straight down the fairway.

It got better as we went on! It was a great moment for me to make a hole-in-one on hole 7, a hole that I had aced during the Par-3 Contest many years ago.

The biggest surprise was that there were 12 holesin-one during The Masters week. The odds of that happening must be 5,000,000-1. There were nine in the Par-3 Contest and three in the tournament itself.

That’s some sort of record! The funny thing is that when the balls were dropping into the hole straight off the tee, spectators were saying, ‘well they’re supposed to do that, aren’t they?’

The focus was on Jordan Spieth, who was expected to run away with another Green Jacket. But after the event the theory was that Jordan unintentionally threw the tournament away when he had victory in his grasp. But, in my mind, Spieth just didn’t play well enough overall, and particularly in the last round, to warrant a win.

Whereas, Danny Willett did play well and he deserved his win. If you go back to the last two holes of his Saturday round, Speith made mistakes that cost him three strokes and early on Sunday he was still prone to an error or two.

Willett, on the other hand hit his drives down the middle of the fairways, hit the greens and made the required putts. He played magnificently – bogey-free with five birdies. But some people couldn’t see what was happening and merely continued to focus on Spieth.

Spieth needs to tweak his backswing because he’s currently not hitting the ball straight. His putting remains his main asset but he shouldn’t be relying on his putting alone. Rory McIlroy played well but he’s got to improve his putting. If you look at how well Rory hit the ball during the tournament and the way Spieth hit the ball, although Jordan beat Rory by three shots, the Irishman would have won by six shots if he’d had Spieth’s putting touch.

It was a shame for Bernhard Langer to fade out of contention during the final round. He finished with a 79 and it was a real anti-climax. If he could have shot 74 or 73 it would have been great, but, nevertheless, it was a good effort. He was outstanding for 54 holes

but it’s a 72 hole tournament. I’m not being critical, but I always set my sights high. There’s a lot of talk currently about ‘so-called golfing superstars’ but in my view, you’re not a superstar unless you win six Majors. People may say – ‘with five Majors surely Seve Ballesteros was a superstar?’ I’ll reply, ‘no, he’s not’.

He didn’t have the longevity because his career went on such a sharp decline after the age of 36. I was frustrated at The Masters because I was disappointed that Bernhard didn’t shoot a good score on the final day. But The Masters was still memorable for Danny’ Willett’s win. Remember also that if his wife had given birth to the baby when it was due, Danny had said he wouldn’t have played at Augusta – and he wouldn’t now be Masters Champion.

In the event, one week has changed his whole life. What a week indeed!

My Most Memorable Hole In One

I

was playing in The Tradition, a major tournament on the US Champions Tour in Arizona with Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer (The Big Three). We came to the 7th hole - a par 3. It was a double green, shared with the 15th hole. On the elevated tee with the wind behind us, I took a 6 iron and knocked the ball right into the cup! Then, we played the rest of the way round and came back to the same green, this time as the 15th – a par 5. I managed to hole a wedge for my 3rd shot. So, I had 2 eagles in the same round on the same green. Lyle Anderson, the owner and developer, kindly put a plaque on the back of the green saying “Gary Player is the only man to eagle the 7th and 15th in the same round.” I’d say that was probably my most interesting hole-in-one shot and I’ve had more than 20 in my career. My wife Vivienne once had two holes-in-one in the same round,which she keeps reminding me about. So I have had this on my mind and have always wanted to achieve the feat myself. After those two eagles at The Tradition, we came to the par-3 17th. I hit my tee shot and the ball actually rolled right around the cup and stopped on the edge.

I would have given anything to tell Vivienne that I also had two holes-in-one in the same round, but it just never happened! Remember, the harder you practice, the luckier you get! n

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May 2016

CONTENTS 34 12 20 23 24

Cover feature: Matthew Fitzpatrick

The 21 year old from Sheffield, Yorkshire, who had a sensational rookie season last year with his maiden victory at the British Masters supported by Sky SPORTS among 10 top 10 finishes, tied for 7th at The Masters last month and now has the world at his feet.

The Starter

Get set for the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open in association with the Rory Foundation with a course focus on this year’s venue, The K Club. News, including Adam Scott missing the Olympics and Tiger swinging a club again. The 2016 Masters in numbers and turning the clock back to Colin Montgomerie’s dominance at Wentworth.

Pete Cowen Column

Danny Willett’s coach was not surprised to see Danny wearing the Green Jacket at Augusta after his hard-earned, well deserved victory in The Masters.

David Howell Column

The European Tour stalwart makes the point that new technology has levelled golf’s playing field, explaining why there are so few mulitple winners in the game today and far more one-time title victors.

Tour News

Rafa Cabrera-Bello hosts a hugely successful Arabic Press and Media Day at Jumeirah Golf Estates / Andrew Johnston takes European Tour maiden victory at the Spanish Open / Ras Al Khaimah Tourism confirms Challenge Tour event in October / Jordan Smith claims his maiden win at the Red Sea Egyptian Challenge / Dominic Foos aiming for Challenge Tour glory.

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European Tour Destination

73

Liverpool Legends

Following WWG’s series on European Tour Properties and Destinations this month’s focus is on the magnificent, luxurious Mount Juliet Estate near Kilkenny in Ireland.

Retired Liverpool Football Club players get their competitive fix on the golf course.

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April 2016

CONTENTS Worldwide Golf TRAVEL SPECIAL

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GEAR

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PlAY GOLF IN SCOTLAND

With The Open Championship being played at Royal Troon in Ayrshire, and the Aberdeen Asset Managment Scottish Open returning to Castle Stuart, Inverness, in the Highlands & Islands in July, Worldwide Golf presents a taste of golf from north to south of the Home of Golf.

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All the latest news from the leading golf clubs in the Middle East.

Audi R8 Plus gives the Lamborghini Huracan a run for its money; stay and Play in wonderful Baku, Azerbaijan; and David Horsey reveals his Favourite Five golf courses worldwide.

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Editor’s Letter

By Alex Gallemore

The prizes from Emirates Airline keep getting better

ISSUE No.181 MAY, 2016.

Published by: Worldwide Sporting Publications Ltd.

A

Published in Dubai by: Prografix, PO Box 24677, Dubai, UAE. (Tel) +9714 340 3785.

S the seasonal temperture starts to rise once more in the Middle East it signals the time to seek cooler climes and plan our golf breaks abroad without a cold towel wrapped around the back of theneck.

In this issue we focus on Scotland, the Home of Golf, host to this year’s Open Championship at Royal Troon. With Emirates flying twice a day direct to Glasgow International Airport you can be in the heart of golf’s most traditional and famous country in under eight hours from Dubai.

In our 18-page feature we take a look at some of the outstanding courses throughout the various regions. From Trump Turnberry in South Ayrshire to Castle Stuart, Inverness, in the Highlands and Islands, there are some outstanding courses to enjoy and some breathtaking scenery to take in during your trip.

The best way to travel is by car and we’ve teamed up with Arnold Clark Car Hire to give Worldwide Golf readers a 20% discount – just quote the reference WWGM to receive your lower rate when you book.

It’s fitting that Emirates Airline has come up with another huge prize to win a place in this year’s Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open Pro-Am at Castle Stuart. The prize consists of two return tickets from Dubai to Glasgow, one spot in the Pro-Am and two VIP hospitality tickets for all four days of the tournament. Just go to our wesbite www.worldwide.golf to enter.

It was a remarkable achievement for this years Omega Dubai Desert Classic champion, Danny Willett, to keep the momentum going and clinch his first Major at The Masters at Augusta. What was even more impressive was the way he held his nerve in challenging conditions as Spieth and the rest of the big names fell away. In Pete Cowen’s column this month

on page 20 it’s interesting to read how he’s worked with Danny over the past three years to pressure-proof his swing and build in that power fade.

All that hard work on the range in the rain and wind back home in Sheffield has certainly helped Danny forge nerves of steel.

Pete and Danny’s other coach, Mike Walker, had left Augusta on the Friday to head for the airport as they were catching the Monday morning flight from the UK to work at the Spanish Open at Valderamma. In fact, Pete called Danny at the airport before he boarded the plane in the UK on Monday to congratulate Danny on his Masters win. Danny could only utter: “Pete, what on earth has happened!”

The subject of our cover feature this month also comes from the same city as Danny in the UK , Sheffield, and at just 21 he’s a player who has shown he’s a contender at the Majors.

Matthew Fitzpatrick has proved to the golfing world that you don’t always need to be a bomber to be a Major contender and just how much it means to have the right team around you.

It comes as no surprise that since he was a teenager he’s been coached by Pete Cowen and Mike Walker. In the feature Mike shows why Matthew is one of the most accurate players on Tour from tee to green and explains the drill that changed his his sensational rookie season in 2015.

This 2016 season has seen a sudden turnaround in the game. Many pundits believed it was going to be dominated by four or five players like the Big Three of the past. The reality is that there are numerous Tour pros who could win on any given week and with a new wave of fearless youngsters coming through things are only going to get more competitive. All we need now is the surprise return of Tiger, who is practicing again, and golf will never have looked so good. n

Worldwide GOLF 10

Editor-in-Chief: Mike Gallemore.

Executive Editor: Gary Player.

Editor: Alex Gallemore. alex@wspglobal.com.

Publisher: Mike Gallemore. mike@wspglobal.com General Manager Dubai: Richard Bevan: rick@wspglobal.com Editors: Todd Staszko, Scott Grayston.

Production/Design Editor: Thameem Rayyan.

Editorial Panel: Gary Player, Mike Gallemore, Alex Gallemore, Richard Bevan, Todd Staszko Photography: Getty Images, Joanna Eardley.

June 2009 SSN 1- 46805671 Approval UAE National Media Council: Ref.816 30/5/2007 Trade Licence No. 1/104375/15280

Printed by: Raidy, Dubai Worldwide Golf specifies that post-press changes may occur to any information given in this publication and takes no responsibility for goods or services advertised.

The Course

The K Club The Emerald Isle’s inland gem

P

rofessional golf returns to The K Club in County Kildare for the first time in nearly a decade with the course welcoming the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open hosted by the Rory Foundation from May 19 – 22.

With a prize fund of €4,000,000 the lure of a new venue and a chance to go head-to-head with tournament host Rory McIlroy, the field is set to be one of the strongest ever assembled on Irish soil.

The K Club last hosted a worldclass event in 2007 when Colin Montgomerie clinched his 31st title – a record for a British player on The European Tour – at The European Open.

Twelve months earlier, the eyes of the world were fixed on the Arnold Palmer-designed course as the great and the good of European and American golf went head-to-head for The Ryder Cup. Europe completed a convincing victory over their US counterparts, finishing 18.5 – 9.5 under the Captaincy of former Ryder Cup stalwart, Ian Woosnam.

One of the finest parkland courses in Ireland, The K Club is located just a 20 minute drive from Dublin and is a true golfing haven.

It is noted that the favourite hole of the 'The People's Champion' himself, Arnold Palmer, is the par-5 fourth, which encourages a bold approach to reach the green in two – having avoided the overhanging trees to the right. n

Worldwide GOLF 12

Worldwide GOLF 13

STARTER

POULTER READY FOR QUALIFYING ROUTE AFTER RANKING DROP

DE CHAMBEAU SIGNS FOR PUMA AND MAKES IMPRESSIVE PRO DEBUT BRYSON De Chambeau, golf’s selfappointed scientist, turned professional immediately after his top-25 finish at The Masters and duly finished fourth at Hilton Head in his debut amongst the paid ranks.

Joining the likes of Rickie Fowler and Lexi Thompson as Puma Golf staff players, De Chambeau picked up a cheque for $260,000 for his first efforts as a pro.

IAN Poulter is determined to get back into the top 50 on the World Ranking after a recent slump in form. The Englishman hasn’t won since the 2012 WGC-HSBC Champions and dropped out of the top 50 late last year. “I will do anything I need to do,” said Poulter, who was ranked 24th in the world heading into last year’s US Open. “I will do US Open qualifying, I will do Open Championship qualifying.

If you are not giving yourself opportunities to play golf then you are stupid. "In my situation, when you are 62 in the world and you want to improve, taking weeks off is difficult. Having an opportunity at final qualifying is an opportunity to do something about it.”

KO BECOMES YOUNGEST DOUBLE-MAJOR CHAMP

LYDIA Ko became the youngest ever two-time Major champion with victory at this year’s ANA Inspiration at the age of 18 years and 11 months. Ko, who won last year’s Evian Championship, won by one stroke from England’s Charley Hull and Korean In-gee Chun.

SCOTT TO SKIP OLYMPICS Adam Scott will not partner Jason Day in this year’s Olympic Games, citing ‘too busy a schedule’ to make the week in Brazil.

“My decision has been taken as a result of an extremely busy playing schedule and other commitments, both personal and professional,” said the 35-year-old in a statement.

WOODS IS BACK IN ACTION AGAIN Good news for Tiger Woods fans, the 14time Major champion is back playing golf again, completing some full holes as he recovers from back surgery. Woods, who hasn’t teed it up competitively since last August, is reported to have played a series of four-to-five hour practice sessions near his home in Florida.

Q U O T E S “I couldn’t putt with a stick. When you have snakes and stuff going up in your brain, it’s difficult. Maybe I need a brain transplant.” – Ernie Els on six-putting the first hole in his first round at The Masters.

VAN DE VELDE SET FOR CARNOUSTIE REUNION Jean Van De Velde will return to the scene of one of golf’s iconic meltdowns when he makes his European Senior Tour Major debut at the Senior Open at Carnoustie on Scotland's East Coast in July. Van De Velde needed only a double bogey on the 72nd hole to win The Open in 1999 but made a mess – even contemplating hitting out of the Barry Burn at one point – to post a triple bogey. He then lost the resulting playoff to Scotland's Paul Lawrie. The Frenchman turns 50 this month and is looking forward to going back to Carnoustie to compete again. “I came to peace with it all a long time ago,” the television golf pundit said of his collapse. “I’ll be extremely dedicated to being as ready as I can be for Carnoustie.”

O F

T H E

“I can tell you the last couple of holes coming in I felt it, which is great. It’s good. I put a little stress on the old ticker today, so that’s good.”

– Jason Bohn on making the cut in his first start since suffering a heart attack at The Honda Classic in February.

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M O N T H “It was pretty unanimous amongst the players, even at the Sunday dinner that we had, and everyone got up and said we want him as captain again.”

– Jason Day on Nick Price being named the International captain for The Presidents Cup in 2017.

2016 MASTERS IN NUMBERS

English Trio lead Masters GIR

Matt Fitzpatrick (75%), Justin Rose (72.2%) and Lee Westwood (70.8%) led the Greens in Regulation stats.

TOTALS

2016 HOLE STATS:

Eagles: 22

Toughest hole: 11 503 yards Par-4 (Av. 4.5205)

Birdies: 811 Holes-in-one:

There were three aces on the par-3 16th – all on Sunday - by Shane Lowry, Davis Love III and Louis Oosthuizen. No. 16 has been aced 18 times in Masters history, more than three times as many as the next hole (five aces on No. 6).

Pars: 3,064

Easiest hole: 2 577yards Par-5 (Av. 4.6438)

Bogeys: 1,187

Most doubles or worse: hole 11 (24)

Doubles(+): 172

Most eagles: hole 13 (7)

LEE WESTWOOD was the only player in the field to shoot three rounds under par. His runner-up finish was the sixth top ten of his career at Augusta and his second as the bridesmaid.

8 Champion Danny Willett dropped only eight strokes during the tournament.

Birdies: Jordan Spieth made the most birdies on the week (22) with seven coming in his final round. However, he made four bogeys and a quadruple bogey on hole 13 to open the door. By comparison, champion Danny Willett made 13 birdies.

Worldwide GOLF 17

Monty’s Wentworth Hat-trick C

OLIN MONTGOMERIE achieved a great many milestones during his European Tour career – unbeaten in Ryder Cup singles matches; eight Order of Merit titles; successful Ryder Cup captaincy and 31 Tour titles – but perhaps one of the lesser-celebrated feats is his rare ‘hat-trick’ of wins at the BMW PGA Championship around the turn of the millennium.

A final round 69 sealed a one-stroke victory around Wentworth’s West course in 1998 and his successful defence of his title came courtesy of a confident final round 64 and a five-stroke win over Mark James.

Gunning for his hat-trick in what was a stellar field, Monty again delivered the goods as a final

Monty led the Greens in Regulation stats for the 2000 tournament, hitting 80.6% of the greens.

round 69 gave him a three-shot win over Ryder Cup colleagues Darren Clarke, Andrew Coltart and Lee Westwood.

“It’s a great honour for me to win this,” said Montgomerie at the time. “It’s out flagship event.

Everybody on The European Tour is playing and it’s nice to come out on top. I’m thrilled at making history. No-one has ever done this before at this event and it was really close out there.”

Monty followed in the footsteps of Sir Nick Faldo (Irish Open, 1991-1993) and Ian Woosnam (Monte Carlo Open, 1990-1992) as hat-trick winners and the following year Tiger Woods became the fourth man to complete the feat after he clinched his third successive NEC Invitational (1999-2001).

Spin Back

May 2000

Monty also won the World Match Play at Wentworth in 1999 on his way to topping the Order of Merit for the seventh consecutive year.

In 1991 he lost a play-off with Seve Ballesteros at Wentworth but got his own back on the Spaniard later that year with a 1-stroke win at the Scandinavian Masters for his second Tour title.

Worldwide GOLF 18

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Worldwide Golf Columist

DANNY’S WIN WASN’T A SURPRISE

By Pete Cowen, PGA Master Professional

T

HE moment Danny Willett won The Masters last month many people have asked, did I see it coming?

The answer is, quite simply, Yes. He’s been playing well for a long time and he’s worked really hard on his short game and it shows. Just look at what he did at Doral at the WGC-Cadillac Championship where he made 18 out of 20 sand saves.

Also, his putting coach Paul Hurrion deserves a lot of credit as Danny’s putting has also been out of the top draw. He looked one of the most confident players on the greens at Augusta. He only had one threeputt, while Spieth had four. That tells you something.

The conditions at The Masters this year were tough, which certainly played into the hands of the Europeans. In calm conditions the Americans can just hit to an exact yardage like machines and take the course apart. But the opening round was brutal and many of the US players had no idea how to control their ball flight and spin in the wind.

I wasn’t surprised that in those conditions Lee Westwood was the only player to break 70 three times as he’s one of the best in the business at controlling his trajectory and spin.

It was great to see him play with Danny on the final day. They both get on well together and it showed, but more importantly, they dragged each other round and fed off one another.

It was unfortunate for Lee that he hit his tee shot on the par three 16th a little heavy to come up short but I was impressed that Danny, having seen Lee’s ball finish up 40ft short, stuck with the same club and was focused on what he needed to do.

That, for my money, was the shot that helped Danny on his way to the Green Jacket.

The chip on 17 wasn’t bad either, considering that Justin Rose was in a similar spot and couldn’t get it to within 20 feet with a putter.

We’ve been working with Danny now for three years and he’s worked non-stop to develop the proper mechanics, as initially he had too much shape on his ball and couldn’t hit a power fade. It was great to see him hit

one down the last, so all that hard work he’s put in has certainly paid off.

We work with some of the best players in the world and what sets them apart is that they will do whatever is required to make themselves a better player under pressure and it’s our job is install a technique they can rely on under extreme pressure.

This applies to all elite sports people.

Their business is to feel at home in very uncomfortable conditions and all their training means they know exactly what to do without having to think about it, a bit like an auto pilot.

Another one of my players who did well at Augusta was Matthew Fitzpatrick and you’ve got to remember he’s only 21. I’m often asked what his goals are for the season. Will he make The Ryder Cup, win another tournament or break into the top 25 on the ranking?

Putting goals on yourself restricts you and remember – the road to success is always under construction. If you set goals, like winning a Major, where do you go when you’ve achieved them? All I say to my players is: the goal for each season is simply to get better.

So with the first Major out of the way the whole game has been turned upside down.

Two weeks prior to The Masters many golfers, including myself, believed that the Americans would hammer Europe in The Ryder Cup in September. But, all of a sudden, The Masters has finished and everyone has started wondering what happened to all the top American players who were expected to dominate the event.

All it takes is a little wind at Hazeltine and Europe could be quids in. The Americans are too used to hitting to numbers and feel uncomfortable working the ball flight.

Europeans have grown up playing in tough conditions, working the ball to a number and controlling the spin in the wind.

To master this game all you need to do is: start the ball on line, with the correct flight and spin. Then learn to chip and putt. n

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Worldwide Golf Columist

MORE PLAYERS CAN WIN MAJORS

By David Howell, European Tour Professional

W

HEN I was a teenager and just getting the golfing bug I couldn’t wait for the theme tune of the BBC golf coverage to come on and then see the splendour of Augusta National in all its colourful springtime glory. If that weren’t enough it was almost guaranteed that one of Europe’s Big Five would be in the hunt, Sandy, Seve, Nick, Woosie or Bernhard. Sure enough, all of them pulled on the Green Jacket at some point, but it was no surprise, they all seemed destined to win Major titles, they had that kind of stature within the game.

What’s interesting now, is over the following two decades, more and more players go on and win tournaments. Today, there are many more first-time winners on all the tours around the world but, surprisingly, so fewer multiple winners. Seve Ballesteros won more than 80 tournaments, Ian Woosnam claimed over 50 titles worldwide, yet these are the sorts of statistics we don’t tend to see any more at the end of a player’s competitive career.

This trend now extends to the Majors, too, especially with Tiger’s dominance long behind us, and it’s become increasingly difficult to pick the Major winners of the future.

Two of the most dominant European players of the last 20 years, Lee Westwood and Sergio Garcia, have both won a phenomenal number of tournaments worldwide but don’t have a Major between them. Then we have Danny Willett popping up and claiming his first Major title, which is only his fifth title worldwide. This just didn’t happen 20 years ago, but it does now.

Sometimes, as an occasional pundit, you can be too close to the game to see what’s really happening. Take my relationship with Danny, someone I have seen come onto The European Tour as a talented 20 year old. Danny has made gradual progress through the ranks. He has worked diligently and professionally throughout his years on Tour, just as hard as someone like Tiger, I would say, but without the fanfare.

Danny has always had bucket-loads of confidence in his own ability but when you have seen someone at such close quarters for so long it’s hard to stand back and say, do you know what, Danny Willett is perhaps at the point of being the next Major winner. Just look at the facts and you can see that’s precisely where he’s got himself to.

Ranked the best amateur in the world before he turned pro, courtesy of a superb American College record, he then gets his European Tour card straight away. He starts to win events, suffers a back injury and comes back even stronger.

Last season he challenges for The Open at St Andrews, chases Rory all the way to the finish in The Race To Dubai then promptly wins the Nedbank at Sun City to start this year’s campaign. He backs that up with a top three finish at Doral in the World Golf Championships-Cadillac Championship in the States, then has a child for the first time, just in time to make it to Augusta. If you were following Danny’s form you’d think he he’d been heavily fancied, but

for some reason, although a good few quid will have gone on him each way, I’m sure only a few punters truly thought he would win The Masters. Come close? Sure! But wearing the Green Jacket? Probably not!

My theory on why more players are winning tournaments – albeit less often – and why more players than ever are capable of winning Majors is all down to new technology. Equipment has levelled the playing field, allowing far more players to be in contention with nine holes to play week in and week out. When it comes to the Majors a large part is due to The World Golf Championships.

These events have been a huge boost to the confidence of Europe’s players and for those from all over the globe, for that matter. Going on to play on the PGA Tour as an outsider and getting in contention was always a hard thing to do, it was like playing away from home at Old Trafford every week. The WGC events have made Old Trafford feel like a home from home for everyone. The WGCs have enabled our best players to compete more often against the best players in the world, on what feels more like their home ground.

The WGC events have a different feel about them to a PGA Tour event, in my experience, and the step up from these events to a Major is less pronounced.

They have made everyone feel more comfortable. You’re no longer competing against a different set of players when you come down the stretch trying to win a Major. They’re the same familiar guys you were playing against last week – and that’s a huge benefit.

One thing that hasn’t changed, however, is the power of the mind over the outcome of any golf tournament. Having the self-belief that you belong right at the top of the game, to join the legends of yesteryear with your name on the Major trophies that everyone covets, is something not everyone has.

Not everybody is capable of coping with those moments of extreme pressure, when all that you have dreamed of stands before you, there for the taking. Danny found it in himself to do what others couldn’t, which has enabled him to join the Major title club.

Some, outwardly portray themselves as future Major champions. Some, like Danny Willett, just put in all the work, devote the time and make the sacrifices it takes to get to the top of their profession. With that, comes the quiet confidence that you, too, belong in the big time. When that all comes together it has a glorious outcome, a Green Jacket and a place at golf’s top table. n

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Tour News

RAFA CABRERA BELLO HOSTS ARABIC MEDIA GATHERING AT JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

O

ne of The European Tour’s finest golfers, Rafa Cabrera-Bello, visited Jumeirah Golf Estates last month for an exclusive meeting with members of the Arabic media.

The Spaniard is currently in third place in The Race to Dubai rankings and will be one of the stars of the show when the all-important season-ending US$8 million DP World Tour Championship, Dubai gets underway at Jumeirah Golf Estates from November 17 to 20.

Cabrera-Bello entertained the gathered guests by speaking about his life as a professional golfer and his love of Dubai before answering questions along with Abdulazziz Bukhatir, Executive Director, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Adel Zarouni, Vice Chairman Emirates Golf Federation and Khaled Mubarak Al Shamsi, Secretary General, Emirates Golf Federation.

Also present were Yousuf Khazim, CEO Jumeirah Golf Estates and Ismail Sharif, the ‘Forefather of UAE Golf’ who is a seven times UAE National champion.

“I love to compete, and there is no better competition than golf,” said Cabrera-Bello.

“I’ve always loved challenges, and believe hard work pays off sooner or later.

“Dubai has great golf courses and it is one of my favourite places to come back to for practicing, as well as competing.

The facilities here at the European Tour Performance Institute are of the highest quality and it’s one of only two ETPIs in the world.”

Abdulaziz Bukhatir, Executive Director, Jumeirah Golf Estates, added: “Rafa Cabrera-Bello has been a welcome regular visitor to the European Tour Performance Institute since we opened the facility and we’re delighted that players of his calibre are able to benefit from the facilities here to practice ahead of key tournaments on The European Tour. We look forward to welcoming Rafa and the other leading players in The Race to Dubai back here for the DP World Tour Championship in November.

“We’re equally pleased that local golfers, including our UAE National Team, also regularly take advantage of our practice facility to improve their game,” added Bukhatir.

The media event was part of a new drive

by The European Tour to raise interest in the game of golf among Arab Nationals in the region and to increase the profile of The Race to Dubai and its grand final event, the DP World Tour Championship, which is sanctioned by the Emirates Golf Federation and supported by Dubai Sports Council and Dubai Tourism.

The initiative has also seen The European Tour launch a new dedicated

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Arabic language section on its website www.ar.europeantour.com/about-us which has around eight million users, as well as creating a brand new Arabic logo for The Race to Dubai.

“I think it’s great that The European Tour is reaching out to the Arabic media to try to increase the profile of golf among Arab Nationals,” said Sharif. “The Race to Dubai and the DP World Tour Championship has proved hugely popular and has helped put Dubai on the map as one of the key golfing destinations in the world. The next step is to increase interest in the sport among local Arab Nationals which is starting to happen and events like this definitely help.”

Following the question and answer session the members of the media and dignitaries were given an introductory putting lesson by the renowned coaches from the European Tour Performance Institute at Jumeirah Golf Estates before enjoying a fun ‘long putt’ contest.

RAS AL KHAIMAH TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY CONFIRMS EUROPEAN CHALLENGE TOUR EVENT

R

as Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has officially confirmed the emirate will host for the first time a European Challenge Tour event, the Ras Al Khaimah 2016 Golf Challenge. Following an MOU in 2015, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority officially signed the contract, confirming the major sporting event will take place from Wednesday 26 th – Saturday 29 th October at Al Hamra Golf Club.

Haitham Mattar, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority said: “I am delighted to announce one of the biggest sporting events in the UAE, will officially be hosted, for the first time, in Ras Al Khaimah. The contract has now been finalised and ahead of October 2016, our efforts will be concentrated on fine tuning details to ensure the event will be a huge success.”

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism De-

velopment Authority enlisted the expertise of GGA, a professional golf event management company to maximise the experience the event will offer.

Alain de Soultrait, Challenge Tour Director, said: “The Challenge Tour is proud of its reputation for breaking new ground so we are excited to be visiting Ras Al Khaimah for what will be the biggest sporting event in the Emirate’s history.

“We have already introduced professional golf events to nations such as Czech Republic and Kazakhstan with great success, and one of our missions is to spread the game to promising new destinations.

“The confirmation that we will visit Ras Al Khaimah for the penultimate event of our 2016 season is great news for all involved and will hopefully be a major step in establishing Ras Al Khaimah both as a spectacular venue for our

Haitham Mattar, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority shakes hands with Alain de Soultrait, European Challenge Tour Director, at Ras Al Khaimah last month at the confirmation of the Ras Al Khaimah Golf Challenge.

Tour and as a major player in the golf tourism market.”

The European Challenge Tour is a major event within Ras Al Khaimah’s sporting calendar and is contributing to the growth of

tourism in the emirate. A combination of the year-round sunshine, wide range of golfing facilities and diverse hotel offering is helping to make Ras Al Khaimah a leading choice for travelling golfers.

SMITH GOES WIRE-TO-WIRE FOR MAIDEN WIN IN EGYPT

J

ordan Smith scored his maiden win on the European Challenge Tour with an impressive wire-to-wire two-shot victory in the Red Sea Egyptian Challenge Presented

by Hassan Allam Properties.

The Englishman held off a fierce four-man challenge to shoot a final round three under par 69 for an18 under par total 270, at Sokhna Golf Club.

The 23 year old, who gained his playing rights for the 2016 Road to Oman by topping the Order of Merit on the Euro Pro Tour last season, opened with a 63 and made a total of 23 birdies for the week.

“I can’t quite get my head around it at the moment,” said the Wiltshire-based golfer after his emphatic victory. “I can’t believe what’s just happened. I’m speechless.

“I never really thought I could win on the Challenge Tour this quickly. I’d hoped maybe for a win later in the year, but the last couple of weeks I’ve been hitting the ball the best I’ve ever hit it – that’s all down to my coach Simon.

“I could barely hold the putter on the 18th to be honest. It was nice having that two-shot cushion coming down the last but it was all to play for down the stretch and I’m so pleased

Jordan Smith proudly holds the Red Sea Egyptian Challenge trophy after his maiden two-shot victory on the European Challenge Tour, shooting 63-68-70-68. with the way I managed to close it out. I hit a really nice rescue shot into the par three 16 th to about a foot and a half and then birdied 17 and that sort of sealed it, thankfully.

“Going wire to wire is physically and mentally draining so I’ve now got to get ready for next week in Spain. I might stay up to celebrate but I’ve got an early bus tomorrow

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morning, although I’ll certainly enjoy this moment.” Smith finished two shots clear of Switzerland’s Joel Girrbach, England’s Garrick Porteous and Austria’s Manuel Trappel, tied for second place on 16 under par.

Amateur Champion Romain Langasque, who played in the Masters Tournament at Augusta National earlier this month, made a successful start to life as a professional golfer by finishing tied for third on 15 under par, in his first tournament in the paid ranks.

The 20 year old Frenchman, who was second in the first event of the 2016 Road to Oman at the Barclays Kenya Open, was pleased with his week and believes a first Challenge Tour win is just around the corner.

“I am a very happy about how my game is,” he said. “Although I'm disappointed not to win I'm very pleased with how I have played this week. I have hit the ball well off the tee throughout the tournament and my putting was really good, too – especially over my last two rounds.

“I have been in good shape now for one or two months and I will just continue to play my game. I am very pleased and it just means that I have to wait for my time – but it will come.”

THE GREATEST SUMMER ON EARTH Limited Summer Membership Now Available From 1st June until 30th September for only AED

5,500

Become a 2016 Summer Member of Jumeirah Golf Estates; home of the DP World Tour Championship and season finale of the European Tour’s Race to Dubai where you will enjoy all the benefits of full membership.

Early Bird Offer - Pay your Summer fees in full before Tuesday,10th May 2016, and start your membership from Sunday,15th May 2016.

Benefits include seven-day access to the Fire and Earth championship courses. Seven-day advance tee time booking, preferred member’s guest fees for your playing partners, unlimited access to the Club’s practice facilities plus a free golf lesson.

Combine all the above with food and beverage discounts and full access to the Country Club’s gym and swimming pool and make your 2016 summer, The Greatest Summer on Earth …

For more information call +971 4 818 2000 or email membership@jge.ae

JUMEIRAHGOLFESTATES.COM

Langasque eyes Road to Oman charge after superb Masters FRENCHMAN Romain Langasque flew the flag for the Challenge Tour in style at this year’s Masters and now has his eyes set on European Tour qualification after finishing in a share of 38th place at Augusta.

The 20-year-old carded a superb final round 4-under 68, equalling the record backnine score of 31 for an amateur at The Masters, promptly turned professional and turned his focus back on the Challenge Tour.

“There is no tournament like this one,” said Langasque. “I really want to come back here really quickly. But my objective for now is finishing in the top 15 on the Road to Oman and then going on to The European Tour. I will continue to play my game step by step and then we will see how things work out.”

Langasque opened with a 2-over 74 and made the cut by three strokes with a second round 73, which included an eagle at the par-5 15th. He then fell foul of the worst of the conditions on day three with an 83, but bounced back spectacularly on Sunday.

Langasque has made an excellent start to this year’s Road to Oman with a runner-up finish at The Barclays Kenya Open in March and he’s looking to continue his form in the coming events. “This is a perfect confidence, boost for me” he said. “I want to continue to play well on the Challenge Tour and get on The European Tour as quickly as I can.”

Graduate Johnston seals Maiden European Tour win Former Challenge Tour No.1 Andrew Johnston clinched his first title on The European Tour last month with a onestroke win at the Real Club de Valderrama Open de España, Hosted by the Sergio Garcia Foundation. The Englishman, who won twice on the Challenge Tour in 2014 before going on to top the Road to Oman, overcame a strong field to win ahead of Joost Luiten.

Langasque’s Masters Stats:

l Greens in Regulation: 51% l Driving Accuracy: 68%

l Driving Distance: 275 yards l Sand Saves: 29%

l Putts Per GIR: 1.60

Dubai-based teen Dominic Foos aiming for Challenge Tour glory

UPCOMING EVENTS

GERMANY’s Dominic Foos plans on making the most of a winter of hard work as he embarks on the 2016 Challenge Tour as the Tour’s youngest ever winner. Foos won the GANT Open in Finland last August at the age of 17 , but missed out on earning his European Tour card after finishing 34th on the Road to Oman.

The youngster has the benefit of having Justin Parsons, Director of Golf at the Butch Harmon School of Golf in Dubai, as his coach, who believes Foos has all the tools to make this year his best season so far.

“Dominic is a quick learner, he’s intelligent and receptive,” says Parsons, who has worked closely with Foos during the off-season. “He has a logical and precise approach to his game and this has been a theme of the style of player he is turning into. Sometimes I need to remind myself that I am teaching an 18-year-old as he is so mature, calm, focused and professional. His mental strength is his main asset. His victory last year has given him the

May 05 - 08 n Turkish Airlines Challenge

Venue: Gloria GC, Belek, Antalya, Turkey Purse: €175,000

belief that he can compete at this level. He learned a lot of key lessons from last year on the Challenge Tour – the travel, the approach to different courses, tournament strategy and when to rest. There has been a maturing of his skills technically and mentally and I believe he has an excellent chance of a successful Challenge Tour campaign.”

Foos endured a difficult opening event on this year’s Tour with a share of 65th at The Barclays Kenya Open, but he knows there’s a long way to go yet.

“The jump from the amateur game to The European Tour is too big, I think, because the amateur events don’t show the real professional game,” said Foos, who finished in a share of 20th at last year’s NBO Golf Classic Grand Final at Almouj, Muscat, Oman. “The Challenge Tour is a good stepping stone to get on The European Tour as you can see that from all the other big players like Justin Rose, Henrik Stenson and Martin Kaymer. I’m feeling very comfortable here as well and I’m looking forward to the season.”

May 12 - 15 n Montecchia Open

Venue: Golf Club della Montecchia, Padova, Italy Purse: €250,000

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May 26 – May 29 n D+D REAL Czech Challenge

Venue: Golf & Spa Kunetická Hora, Czech Republic Purse: €175,000

www.europeantourproperties.com

Mount Juliet Estate

T

HE internationally renowned Mount Juliet Estate is one of Ireland’s most iconic golf resorts. Situated near Thomastown in the heart of glorious County Kilkenny, it became the first European Tour Destination in Ireland last October, joining one of golf’s most exclusive global networks.

Steeped in history, the 250 year old Manor House at Mount Juliet is an architectural treasure, enjoying spectacular panoramic views over the River Nore and Ballylinch Stud.

Only 20 minutes from Kilkenny City, Mount Juliet boasts an extensive range of world class amenities and facilities, including Ireland’s only Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, a state of the art international equestrian centre catering for riders of all ages and experience, the Michelin-starred Lady Helen Restaurant, coarse fishing, extensive walking, jogging and cycling trails, a well-equipped gym plus a relaxing spa and leisure centre with a 17-metre pool.

The course hosted the first of three consecutive Irish Opens from1993, boasting an illustrious roll of winners in Sir Nick Faldo, Bernhard Langer and Sam Torrance, respectively. In 2002 it hosted the WGC-American Express Championship when Tiger Woods dominated the world-class field to claim victory, and again in 2004 when Ernie Els emerged victorious.

On announcing the venue’s inclusion in the European Tour Properties’ portfolio, Keith Pelley, Chief Executive of The European Tour, said: “The calibre of champions who have won at Mount Juliet underlines the quality of this magnificent venue. The European Tour’s relationship with Mount Juliet stretches back more than two decades and we are proud of its inclusion within The European Tour Properties network.”

David MacLaren, The European Tour’s Director of Property and Venue Development, added: “Mount Juliet is consistently recognised as one of Ireland’s finest parkland courses and fits perfectly within our portfolio of world class venues.”

Michael McElligott, Principal and Managing 4

1991

Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Mount Juliet golf course first opened in 1991 with a friendly match between Nicklaus and Christy O’Connor Snr. Last October Mount Juliet Estate became the first European Tour Destination in Ireland.

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Destinations

Courses

LE GOLF NATIONAL FRANCE

LONDON GOLF CLUB UNITED KINGDOM

LINNA GOLF FINLAND

MAXX ROYAL BELEK GOLF RESORT TURKEY

TERRE BLANCHE HOTEL SPA GOLF RESORT ***** FRANCE

QUINTA DO LAGO PORTUGAL

DIAMOND COUNTRY CLUB AUSTRIA

GOLF CLUB ST. LEON-ROT GERMANY

ESTONIAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB ESTONIA

PGA CATALUNYA RESORT SPAIN

THE DUTCH THE NETHERLANDS

KUNGSĂ„NGEN GOLF CLUB SWEDEN

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

BLACK MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB & RESORT THAILAND

LIGHTHOUSE GOLF & SPA RESORT BULGARIA SAUJANA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB MALAYSIA

MOUNT JULIET ESTATE IRELAND ALBATROSS GOLF RESORT CZECH REPUBLIC

Destination Under Development ROSSINGTON HALL UNITED KINGDOM

European Tour Properties is a network of world class venues that all boast the hallmark of tournament quality courses and offer extensive off-course facilities guaranteed to provide a memorable golfing experience for members and visitors alike.

Many of them are close to famous cities and all offer a wealth of golf, leisure and accommodation choices.

For those seeking the ultimate golfing lifestyle, elegant and secluded real-estate opportunities are also available.

Spanning three major geographical regions, our member venues benefit from year-long support in brand, sales, marketing and operational areas, all targeted at enabling them to sell more green fees, memberships, real estate and hotel rooms.

2002

was the year Tiger Woods lifted the WGC-American Express Championship at Mount Juliet Estate. Two years later the world's best returned to Mount Juliet as Ernie Els clinched his second WGC trophy. Mount Juliet has also hosted three Irish Opens.

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www.europeantourproperties.com

Mount Juliet Estate The spectacular 7,300 yards, par 72 layout combines many features – rolling fairways, water hazards, contoured greens – all of which blend superbly into the spectacular landscapes that surround this unique estate. The course is undergoing extensive work to ensure that it is consistently presented in world class condition. The redevelopment of the course and the 250 year old Manor House is part of a €12 million refurbishment project.

Director of Mount Juliet, said: “We are delighted to be part of a fraternity of truly world class golf resorts, thereby strengthening our growing relationship with The European Tour.

"Our membership endorses Mount Juliet’s position with The European Tour’s stamp of a tournament-quality golf venue that presents a level of on and off-course facilities guaranteed to provide a memorable experience for our Club members and all visiting golfers.”

The magnificent 1,500 acre estate, which dates back to the 15th century is currently undergoing a €12 million redevelopment. The existing 31 individually-designed bedrooms, many of which enjoy scenic views over the River

Nore and the paddocks of the famous Ballylinch Stud, will soon be increased by 60 additional bedrooms in the Hunters Yard area.

Redeveloped Plans also include the construction of a new golf clubhouse, members bar and changing rooms. Kendals Restaurant will also be redeveloped, creating a new banqueting hall with a capacity of up to 220 diners, with all the work expected to be completed next month.

The Nicklaus course celebrates its 25th anniversary this year and with significant investment in new Toro® equipment, expertise and support, has undergone

considerable attention.

The course is presented in consistent tournament condition and the investment ensures that it will maintain its position as one of the leading parkland courses in Ireland.

Mount Juliet exudes elegance and excellence. Everything about the House, the historic Estate, the personal service and the golf course is world class.

It manages to combine all its numerous attributes to create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere in such tranquil, peaceful, luxurious surroundings.

Mount Juliet is not only one of the game’s great golf courses it is a venue that has something for everyone to enjoy. n

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The Premium Parkland Pass allows golfers to play three great golf courses – Mount Juliet, Mount Wolseley and Carlow Golf Club – for only €123.

Tour News Date: March 17 – 20 Event: Arnold Palmer Invitational Venue: Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Orlando, Florida Winner’s Cheque: $1,134,000

Date: March 17– 20 Event: Hero Indian Open Venue: Delhi Golf Club, New Delhi, India Winner’s Cheque: €246,588

DAY CRUISES TO EIGHTH TOUR TITLE

CHAWRASIA WRAPS UP HOME OPEN S.S.P. Chawrasia hung on to win the Hero Indian Open with a final round 71 for a two-stroke victory over top-ranked compatriot Anirban Lahiri and Korea’s Jeunghun Wang. Chawrasia opened with two rounds of 67 and moved two shots clear with a third round 68. His final round 71 was solid enough to hold off the advancing Wang and Lahiri.

"This is very important for me because I get a full card. I think every Indian player looks at this tournament as the biggest because it is our national championship.”

Pos. Name 1 S.S.P. Chawrasia T2 Jeunghun Wang T2 Anirban Lahiri

Country IND KOR IND

-15 -13 -13

JASON Day eased to his eighth career win on the US PGA Tour with a wire-to-wire victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. The Australian came out firing with an opening 66 and followed it with a 65. Weekend rounds of 2-under-par 70 saw him post a 17-under total of 271 for a win by one shot from Kevin Chappell with Henrik Stenson third.

“I just ground it out today. It wasn’t the best day that I've had, but just to be able to get it done when I wasn’t quite on my game was very satisfying.”

R1 R2 R3 R4

Total

Pos. Name

67 67 68 71 67 74 66 68 68 71 67 69

273 275 275

1 2 3

Jason Day Kevin Chappell Henrik Stenson

Country AUS USA SWE

-17 -16 -14

R1 R2 R3 R4

Total

66 65 70 70 68 68 67 69 67 66 70 71

271 272 274

Date: March 23 – 27 Event: Puerto Rico Open at Coco Beach Venue: Coco Beach G&CC, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico Winner’s Cheque: $560,000

Date: March 23 – 27 Event: WGC-Dell Match Play Venue: Austin Country Club, Austin, Texas Winner’s Cheque: $1,620,000

FINAU DOES IT THE HARD WAY

DAY DOUBLES UP WITH WGC SUCCESS JASON Day won back-to-back titles after overcoming Louis Oosthuizen 5&4 in the final of the WGC-Dell Match Play at a breezy Austin Country Club. It was the Australian’s second win in the event, following his win in 2014, and on the road to victory he defeated defending champion Rory McIlroy in the semi-final.

“I've been working very hard on my short game and on the greens I just felt like I could hole anything. I'm really pleased with how I played.”

Championship Match: Jason Day defeated Louis Oosthuizen 5&4 Third place play-off: Rafa Cabrera-Bello def. Rory McIlroy 3&2

TONY Finau wrapped up his first title on the US PGA Tour after defeating Steve Marino on the third play-off hole at the Puerto Rico Open. The pair both shot final rounds of 70 to tie at the top on 12-under and could not be separated after both made birdie on two trips down the par-5 18th. However, on the third attempt Marino missed his birdie putt, allowing Finau to tap in to win. Ian Poulter shot a final round 72 to miss making the play-off by one shot.

"I think I'm still a little bit overwhelmed. It probably hasn't all sunk in yet."

Pos. Name 1 2 3

Tony Finau Steve Marino Ian Poulter

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Country USA USA ENG

-12 -12 -11

R1 R2 R3 R4

Total

69 70 67 70 70 67 69 70 71 66 68 72

276 276 277

WORLD ROUNDUPS Date: April 14 - 17 Event: RBC Heritage Venue: Hilton Head Golf Links, Hilton Head, South Carolina Winner’s Cheque: $1,062,000

Date: March 31 – April 3 Event: Shell Houston Open Venue: GC of Houston, Humble, Texas Winner’s Cheque: $1,224,000

GRACE CRUISES TO FIRST US WIN HERMAN WINS WITH MASTERFUL DISPLAY JIM Herman held off the likes of Dustin Johnson, Henrik Stenson and Rickie Fowler to win his first US PGA Tour title on his 106th start at the Shell Houston Open, punching his ticket to a debut at The Masters in the process. Herman chipped in for birdie on the 16th to move clear and held his nerve with par on the difficult closing hole to seal the win.

BRANDEN Grace shot a superb 5-under-par final round 66 to win his first US PGA Tour title at the RBC Heritage by two strokes from Russell Knox and Luke Donald. Englishman Donald began the final round in the lead but Grace started strongly with an opening nine of 4-under and closed out the win comfortably on the back nine.

“I’m pretty proud of myself to get up there. It was the first time I had been in the final group, and to bring it home is pretty special.”

"This really puts the cherry on top of the cake for me and I'm excited for the future. I can tick this achievement off and head into the next couple of Majors trying to win them.”

Pos. Name 1 2 3

Country

Jim Herman Henrik Stenson Dustin Johnson

USA SWE USA

-15 -14 -13

R1 R2 R3 R4

Total

Pos. Name

69 69 67 68 69 71 66 68 65 71 70 69

273 274 275

1 Branden Grace T2 Russell Knox T2 Luke Donald

Country RSA SCO ENG

-9 -7 -7

R1 R2 R3 R4

Total

66 74 69 66 72 65 73 67 66 71 69 71

275 277 277

Date: April 14 – 17 Event: Open de España, Hosted by the Sergio Garcia Foundation Venue: Real Club Valderrama, Andalucia, Spain Winner’s Cheque: €333,330

JOHNSTON REIGNS IN SPAIN ANDREW Johnston wrapped up a memorable first title on The European Tour with a one-stroke win at the Open de España, Hosted by the Sergio Garcia Foundation. Johnston posted a final round 1-under 70 for a 1-over-par total 285 to finish one-shot clear of Joost Luiten with tournament host Sergio Garcia in third place. World No.16 Garcia shot the low round of the day on Sunday with a 67 but was left to rue a missed eagle attempt on the 17th and a bogey on the final hole ended his chances. Overnight leader Michael LorenzoVera fell out of contention in the tough overcast conditions with three bogeys in the opening four holes.

Pos. Name 1 2 3

Andrew Johnston Joost Luiten Sergio Garcia

Country ENG NED ESP

+1 +2 +3

R1 R2 R3 R4

Total

67 74 74 70 70 75 70 71 74 71 75 67

285 286 287

" I came off the course and I just started crying with the emotion of it. It's just very surreal and I don't think it will hit me for a few days.”

FITZPATRICK

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HAS THE WORLD AT HIS FEET Worldwide GOLF 35

MATTHEW FITZPATRICK is steadily fulfilling the promise he displayed since winning the US Amateur Championship in 2013, becoming No.1 in the World Amateur Golf Ranking. The likeable Sheffield-born 21 year old turned professional at European Tour Qualifying School at the end of 2014 having made the cut in the 2013 Open Championship and the 2014 US Open. He served his apprenticeship on the European Challenge Tour and last year his career simply took off. He tied for 7th in the WGC-HSBC Champions in Shanghai then produced an emphatic 2-shot wire-to-wire win at the British Masters supported

by SKY Sports at Woburn. The ultra-consistent Yorkshireman celebrated his rookie season by finishing tied fourth at the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai completing 10 top 10 finishes in 2015. His tied 7th in last month’s Masters has set Fitzpatrick up for a sensational season with Major glory and a Ryder Cup place firmly in his sights. Here he talks to Worldwide Golf about his game and his down to earth approach to success.

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FEATURE

MAT THE W FITZPATRICK

Worldwide Golf: You’re a ‘golf in Dubai’ Ambassador but how important has Dubai been for your career so far, and the time you spent on the Challenge Tour playing events such as the NBO Golf Classic?

MATTHEW FITZPATRICK: I’m so grateful for the support I’ve had from everyone at ‘Golf in Dubai’.

They’re doing so much for the sport in that part of the world and I have always enjoyed my time in Dubai and the UAE. Everyone looks forward to the tournaments in Dubai and the facilities are incredible. Finishing fourth at the DP World Tour Championship last November was a big week for me and I’ve got a lot of happy memories of the place.

and accuracy the same as it’s been. I won’t sacrifice that consistency and accuracy for a few extra yards.”

WWG: It’s easy to see why people compare you to Jordan Spieth, with nerves of ‘Sheffield’ steel and a putting stroke to match, but which players do you learn the most from on Tour and why?

MF: There are so many great examples to follow everywhere you look and you pick up little things from all of the guys you watch when you’re competing. I’d probably say that Rory, Martin Kaymer and Danny are the three I’ve learnt the most from if I had to pick certain players.

WWG: Being managed by ISM you are surrounded by experienced players such as Westwood, Clarke, Oosthuizen and former players and ‘old hands’ like Chubby Chandler, Ian and Graham, but what has been the best piece of advice they’ve given you?

MF: There’s no one bit of advice I regard as the best advice I’ve had. I’m constantly speaking to Chubby about things and it’s great to be around guys like Lee and Darren who have so much experience. Danny Willett is also someone that I’ll take a lot from.

WWG: As many of the top ranked players failed to master the conditions during the final round at Augusta and for you to shoot 67 must have given you a confidence boost but what else did you take from the week?

MF: There were so many positives I took from my week at The Masters. My performance at Augusta has definitely given me the confidence to believe that I can compete at that level and I really feel that what happened has set me up for the year. There’s a lot to look forward to.

WWG: You’ve managed to gain nearly 20 yards to your driving. How have you achieved this and do you believe you still need to find some more distance to take on the bombers?

MF: Being able to add some length off the tee is really down to the work I’ve been doing with my strength and conditioning coach, Kev Duffy, who is brilliant at what he does. That has certainly paid off for me but I’m really determined to keep my technique

WWG: You made quite a few notes on the greens and how to play Augusta - is this something you do in detail for most of the courses you play?

MF: Yes, it’s just something I do all the time. I always keep the old books and refer back to them. One of the big things for me is to identify the the areas where you don’t want to miss. It goes with the job that you have to utilise and learn from your experiences of the different courses we play.” 4

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What’s In the bag?

Driver: Callaway Big Bertha.

Fairways woods: Ping G25. Three and seven wood.

Irons: Ping S55s.

Wedges: Titleist Vokey with the North Western stamp.

Putter: Yes putter.

Ball: Titleist ProV 1x.

Favourite club in the bag?

My putter.

Are you a player who changes clubs with the latest technology?

Not really. I stick to what works for me.

How important is it to play with the right ball and have you always marked it with four dots?

It’s vital and I can’t imagine not having the dots.

Any tips?

Best piece of advice to control first tee nerves Be sure to make contact!

Best tip to find more greens in regulation – Find more fairways.

Best tip to master those three footers Make your stroke firm and confident.

DISCOV ER DRE A ML A ND DISCOV ER A ZER BA I JA N.

DreamlandGCBaku dreamlandgolfclub.com info@dreamlandgolfclub.com +994 12 404 7 404

Above: ISM stablemates Lee Westwood, Danny Willett and Matthew Fitzpatrick enjoying a laugh together at the EURASIAN CUP. Who would have known that these three just three months later would dominate the leaderboard at Augusta. Below left: Fitzpatrick has always followed the priceless advice of his manager Andrew Chubby Chandler. Below: Matthew Fitzpatrick was really impressed with the way in which Danny Willett composed himself to hit a perfect tee shot down the last at Augusta. Below right: Pete Cowen overlooks Fitzpatrick’s swing during a clinic at this year’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic.

WWG: What were your thoughts when you looked at the leaderboard and saw Danny and Lee at the top and you close behind? What impressed you the most as a player about Danny’s performance – his putt on 16 or his chip on 17?

MF: At those sorts of moments you are so wrapped up in what you’re doing you tend not to take notice of what’s happening around you but it was incredible to see Danny from 16-18 back at the house and the way he played those holes was quite something. I was really impressed with the chip on 17 but also the way he took his time and hit the tee shot on 18 was seriously impressive.

WWG: With your tied 7th finish you will be teeing it up again next year at Augusta but with only two previous starts at The Masters you’ve certainly got to know the course quickly. What’s been the key, as it normally takes players years to understand the course - do you believe it’s the Major you stand the best chance of winning, or would most like to win?

MF: I couldn’t pick between The Masters and The Open Championship as to which one I’d most like to win, or the Major I’d be most likely to win. Over the coming years I hope to have a good chance in the US Open, especially with their premium on driving accuracy. Do I sound too greedy? Augusta was a week I’d been looking forward to for a long time, since I was in the top 50 after Thailand. I had

WWG: Does seeing a stablemate like Danny win The Masters give you confidence that you can achieve similar feats in the game?

MF: Absolutely it does. It was great to see Danny win the way he did and it certainly gave me so much belief that I could achieve great things at the top level.” lots of family and friends there, big crowds and I guess I fed off the buzz of my first professional appearance in a Major. I putted well and I felt comfortable on the greens – I do like quick greens.”

WWG: Danny’s brother’s tweets were hysterical during the The Masters – is this something we could expect to see from your friends and family?

MF: I don’t think so. Mum and Dad aren’t big on social media!

WWG: How instrumental have Pete Cowen and Mike Walker been in developing your game and what are you focusing on at the moment?

MF: I really can’t tell you how much influence they’ve had in getting me to where I am right now. I can’t thank them enough for the role they’ve played with me. I’m always working on all aspects of my game but a left hand below right hand drill has been helping me get a more consistent ball flight.

WWG: You’ve impressed everyone with your attitude in making it to the top level without changing your personality – is this due to your upbringing?

MF: I can only speak for myself but I guess it’s just how I am. My parents have been great with me and in the way I’ve been brought up. I’m never going get carried away with anything. It’s not how I am.

WWG: When you hear of players travelling to exotic locations to work with their swing coaches while you and Danny are at Pete’s Academy in Rotherham, does this help to keep you grounded?

MF: It’s true that there aren’t many frills at the Academy but it’s a great place to work and Pete and Mike don’t do frills or the like.

WWG: You played the opening two rounds at Augusta with Darren - was there anything said between the two of you on The Ryder Cup? MF: I wouldn’t expect Darren to say anything like that.

Nothing was said specifically but Darren is always great with his congratulations when I have a good week, which is very encouraging for my game. n

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GEAR

JASON ASHLEY (L) AND SHAUN GROBLER (R) BRANDISH THE DRIVERS. JASON ASHLEY: You tested out the Cobra F6 first, what’s your assessment of this driver?

SHAUN GROBLER: I was a big fan of the Cobra.

Numbers-wise, I imagine it will come out on top compared to the other two drivers. It felt a little bit hard off the face but at the same time, it’s a club that you can really have a go with because you feel confident when it’s in your hands. Another aspect of this driver that I thoroughly enjoyed was its forgiveness.

JA: What about the Nike Vapor Fly? What was that like to hit and are you a fan of how flamboyant it is?

SG: Aesthetically, the club looks brilliant. When you are preparing to hit a shot it gives you a sense of confidence that makes you ready to unleash a big drive. With the technology these days, it is also pretty forgiving which is great. One thing that was impressive with the electric blue Nike driver was the low spin-rate it generated. This is an integral thing to look at with drivers and I feel the Vapor Fly led the way in this area.

JA: How about the Callaway XR 16? Did you enjoy testing this out?

SG: Yes I did. It was unbelievable how forgiving this driver was. The Callaway was definitely a lighter set-up and feel, which made it a little bit harder for me to operate with but the forgiveness helped me cope. Any golfers who are looking to launch the ball higher off the tee, this driver is perfect for that.

SHAUN FIRING AWAY IN THE ARABIAN RANCHES INDOOR STUDIO.

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LAUNCH ANGLE (deg)

SPIN RATE (rpm)

CARRY (Yards)

TOTAL (Yards)

SMASH FACTOR

CLUB SPEED (mph)

BALL SPEED (mph)

LAUNCH ANGLE (deg)

SPIN RATE (rpm)

CARRY (Yards)

TOTAL (Yards)

SMASH FACTOR

CLUB SPEED (mph)

BALL SPEED (mph)

LAUNCH ANGLE (deg)

SPIN RATE (rpm)

CARRY (Yards)

TOTAL (Yards)

SMASH FACTOR

16.9

3063

Dispersion

WATCH SHAUN AND JASON DISCUSS AND COMPARE THE DRIVERS. WorldwideGolf

286.9 301.9

2923

TRACKMAN DISPERSION

286.2 301.2

1.50 1.50 1.42

Jason Ashley| Apr 21, 2016

Callaway XR 16

Cobra King F6

01

Nike Vapor Fly

300

280

Trajectory

DISTANCE & TRAJECTORY

Callaway XR 16

© 2016 TrackMan | MyTrackMan.com

Cobra King F6

Jason Ashley| Apr 21, 2016

02

Nike Vapor Fly

Carryyds

Multi Group Report

40 30 100

80

60

40

20

80

60

40

20

All the drivers are available at Golf House outlets in Dubai. If you want some custom-fitting from Jason or Shaun, you can visit our fitting centres at the Address Montgomerie, Al Badia or Arabian Ranches Golf Club, so you can get the best out of your game. © 2016 TrackMan | MyTrackMan.com

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Multi Group Report

20

100

300

JA: Excellent. It sounds like you enjoyed all three drivers but now it’s time to see how the numbers compared and relate it to Shaun’s feedback. Shaun was swinging the club really quickly averaging around 115mph with these drivers. He is used to a stiffer and heavier shaft, which allows him to go after it without losing dispersion.

Overall we got a good reflection of the drivers from the numbers and your feedback. It’s clear to see that all the drivers were forgiving and the numbers were very similar in terms of distance. The Cobra F6 went the furthest at 306 yards and the other two went just under 302. In terms of spin-rates the clubs were a touch higher than Shaun is used to because of the shafts. One big thing I noticed was that the F6 and the XR 16 generated faster ball speeds than the Vapor Fly but this didn’t really affect the distance so it’s not a major issue.

It was a good test between the drivers but I’m sure these clubs could have operated even greater if they were customfitted and weren’t stock standard. If you are a regular golfer swinging around 95/100mph these clubs would be a much better set-up for you than they were for Shaun.

291.9 306.2

150

168.7

15

2900

150

115.6

172.2

15.5

200

114.7

172.4

200

114.6

250

NIKE VAPOR FLY

BALL SPEED (mph)

250

CALLAWAY XR 16

CLUB SPEED (mph)

300

COBRA F6

10

GEAR

THE NEW

SCOTTY CAMERON

SELECT LINE T HE NEW SCOTTY CAMERON SELECT PUTTERS, ENGINEERED WITH INNOVATIVE NEW FACE INLAY TECHNOLOGY, BLEND PRECISION MILLED SCOTTY CAMERON CRAFTSMANSHIP WITH ENHANCED MULTIMATERIAL CONSTRUCTIONS TO DELIVER TOUR-VALIDATED PERFORMANCE WITH UNMATCHED FEEL AND FEEDBACK.

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✪ New Select Newport, Newport 2 and Newport 2.5 models, the next generation of Scotty’s long-time tour favourites, are modern heel-and-toe weighted blades designed to support flowing strokes. Each model features a sole-to-topline 303 stainless steel inlay that is precision mid-milled and hand-buffed to a brilliant, metallic finish, then bonded to the stainless steel body using high-tech vibration dampening material. This fusion of materials provides golfers with responsive feel and feedback at impact

The new Select putters feature sleek, performance-oriented models with new technology, shapes and configurations to satisfy the variety of strokes, styles and preferences of golfers at every level of the game. Central to the new Select line are three unique multi-material constructions matched to each putter style. Each construction utilises new face inlay technology to produce responsive feel and feedback that golfers have described as “soft but solid.”

The new face inlays – which wrap around the sole and disappear from the player’s view at address, as opposed to a traditional face insert that occupies only a specific centre section of the face – are presented in three unique setups to complement each putter shape and size:

PAUL MOUTARDE

HANDICAP: 8 MEMBER AT: AL BADIA GOLF CLUB I tried out a few of the new Scotty Cameron putters but the one that I like the most is the Select Newport. It is slightly more weighted down to the floor than the mallet putters. The toe suited me really well on the Newport. In addition, the grip is fantastic and it is a nice weight. This helped my control and consistency of strike, which is something every golfer desires.

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✪ New Select Newport 2 Notchback – a slightly larger, angular modern blade with a notched flange – features a sole-totopline 6061 aircraft grade aluminium inlay anodized in gunmetal grey. The lightweight aluminium inlay, bonded to the stainless steel body with vibration dampening material, enhances sound and feel while moving more weight from the stainless steel to the perimeter for improved MOI and stability. ✪ New Select Newport M1 and Newport M2 mid-mallets combine a 6061 aircraft grade aluminium inlay with Scotty’s face-sole pop-through technology. The face-sole is a single piece of lightweight aluminium that comprises the face inlay, wraps down and around to create the midsection of the sole and pops through the flange to create the sightline field. This construction concentrates weight on the perimeter to produce higher MOI and stability for “straight back/straight through” strokes. The lightweight aluminium face-sole is fine tuned for sound and feel through vibration dampening material attached to the stainless steel core.

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GEAR

PING INNOVATING THE SPORT WITH G CROSSOVER

By SAM TAYLOR, ProSports International

T

he engineers at PING have once again been pioneering with their designs to create a new category of Golf club – the PING Crossover. The PING G Crossover has been engineered to combine the precision, workability and control of an iron with the speed and forgiveness of a Hybrid. However, despite the look, it’s not a driving iron; the Crossover is far more forgiving, higher launching and much more versatile.

PING engineers have also used an innovative cascading internal sole to distribute the stress evenly so the entire face, top rail and sole of the club are engaged in flexing at impact to enhance and maximise ball speed, resulting in more distance. The low mass in the head allows hybrid-like forgiveness for accuracy and distance by positioning the centre of gravity further back in the head. This in-turn expands the perimeter weighting of the G Crossover, achieving a higher moment of inertia, resulting in more forgiveness and consistency with off-centre strikes.

Finally, PING have utilised Carpenter 455 steel for this iron which is 2.5 times

stronger than the traditional 17-4 stainless steel used previously. The steel allows for a thinner face for greater face flexing, faster ball speeds and longer results.

In conclusion, the PING G Crossover is one of the most versatile new pieces of golf equipment to hit the shelves of golf stores across the Middle East for a long time. For me it is the best long iron replacement I’ve ever laid my hands on. If you would like to find out more information regarding the new PING G Crossover, check out our video and see for yourself how it performs when I test it out in the ‘Crossover Challenge’ against Phil Scott at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club.

• •

AVAILABLE 18°, 21°, 24° STOCK GRAPHITE SHAFT: PING ALTA (SR, R, S, X); OPTIONAL SHAFTS: TOUR 90 (R, S, X), PING AWT 2.0 (R, S, X)

‘PING G CROSSOVER CHALLENGE’ WorldwideGolf

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GEAR: COMPETITION

NEW RULING OPENS DOOR FOR NEW BUSHNELL GOLF TOUR V4 Tour V4 and Tour V4 Slope Feature New Ergonomic Design and Improved Speed and Accuracy

B

ushnell Golf’s new Tour V4 and Tour V4 Slope Editions are faster than their predecessor, 30% smaller and more ergonomically designed to increase the ease and accuracy in acquiring yardages. The Tour V4 Slope Edition uses patented, Tour trusted Slope technology to provide compensated distances for elevation changes – what’s more, they can now be used during tournament play!

The R&A/USGA’s revision of rule 14-3, effective January 1, 2016 enables players to use DMD (Distance Measuring Devices) with a slope function, so long as the function is disabled during play.

Bushnell designed the Tour V4 Slope Edition with the ability to turn the slope function on and off, making it legal for tournament play.

“Our Slope technology is counted on by PGA Tour Professionals and playing pros around the world,” said Scott Peterson, Senior Product Manager at Bushnell. “In the past, amateurs have been reluctant to purchase rangefinders with Slope Technology. With the new USGA rule change, the Tour V4 Slope will now be conforming during tournament play and for posting handicap rounds by turning slope mode off.”

The Tour V4 line also includes JOLT Technology. When the golfer aims the rangefinder at a flag, JOLT Technology provides short vibrating bursts to signal that the PinSeeker Technology has isolated the target and locked onto the flag. Along with the JOLT Technology, a faster processor has been incorporated into the unit to provide yardage readings faster than the Tour v3.

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PRODUCT FEATURES INCLUDE: ✪ PINSEEKER WITH JOLT TECHNOLOGY TO CONFIRM THE LASER HAS ZEROED IN ON THE FLAG ✪ ACCURATE TO WITHIN ONE YARD/METRE ✪ FIVETO 1,000-YARD/900 METERS RANGE PERFORMANCE (400 YARDS/360 METERS TO A FLAG) ✪ 5X MAGNIFICATION (OBJECTS APPEAR 5X CLOSER) ✪ NEW ERGONOMIC DESIGN WITH STABI-GRIP ✪ 30% SMALLER THAN TOUR V3 ✪ FAST FOCUS SYSTEM ✪ RAIN PROOF ✪ NEW PREMIUM CARRY CASE AND THREE-VOLT BATTERY INCLUDED ✪ INDUSTRY LEADING TWO-YEAR WARRANTY The Tour V4 and Tour V4 Slope will both be available at Bushnell retailers in May. For more information on the Bushnell family of rangefinders, visit the companay’s website at www.bushnellgolf.eu

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THE NEW GOLF LASER RANGEFINDERS Perfect Combination of Size, Speed, Accuracy and Jolt !

NEW

§ PinSeeker with JOLT Technology § Accurate to +/-1 Yard / Metre § Range 5-1000 yards / 900m § 5× Magnification § Fast Focus System § Stabi-Grip Technology

“People call my game aggressive. But it’s just the confidence that comes from preparation.

Bushnell is indispensable in that regard.”

RICKIE FOWLER

Get the exact distance to the flag

THE N°1 LASER RANGEFINDER IN PROFESSIONAL GOLF

www.prosports.ae

@BushnellGolf

©2016 B.O.P. ® ™ denote trademarks of Bushnell Golf. PinSeeker is a trademark registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office by Worldwide Golf Enterprises, Inc. All Bushnell® laser rangefinder and GPS models are legal to use when local USGA & R&A rule 14-3 is in effect. Slope units now legal for tournament play when Slope mode is disabled.

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INSTRUCTION

DO NOT FEAR THE DREADED LONG IRON ANY LONGER…

O

ne of the most common weaknesses in amateur golf is playing the long irons. I like to educate students to get in the right position at address and focus on achieving good solid contact. It is the same principle as any other club or shot in the bag – contact is key. Even though the long iron has less loft, a good strike will allow the club to do its job. Below are three simple steps to becoming more comfortable with the longer irons.

3 SIMPLE WAYS TO IMPROVE BALL STRIKING WITH THE LONG IRONS: 1. SOLID ADDRESS POSITION Most amateurs go wrong with longer clubs right from the start because of their posture.

The key is to get in a balanced and stable address position with the arms still connected to the body at address. You can see here (image 1 – ADDRESS) that if you draw a line through the shaft at address it should be run through my belt buckle.

MICHAEL SWEENIE

Head PGA Golf Professional at Dreamland Golf Club - Baku

2. SWING THE CLUB AROUND THE BODY The key to any longer club in the bag is to make sure you continue to swing the club around the body. The longer the club, the flatter the plane will naturally be from your address position.

Allow yourself to commit to making a full shoulder turn to get the club moving around the body. It is essential that you’re not just lifting the hands and arms on the backswing.

3. COVER THE BALL AT IMPACT The impact position is crucial with long irons.

As you can see here in the picture (image 2 IMPACT) coming into impact, I have maintained my body position and rotated my hips – NO LIFTING OR STRAIGHTENING THE BODY! Certainly one of the most common faults I would see in amateurs playing long irons is the lifting of the body through impact to try and create space to lift the ball. Even though the club has less loft than a short-mid iron we still need to maintain posture to ensure solid contact. Your weight should be transferred onto the left side on the downswing and hips rotating towards the target through impact.

ADDRESS

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IMPACT

INSTRUCTION

DON’T

OPEN EARLY

by STEPHEN DEANE Head Professional, Emirates Golf Club THIS MONTH WE WILL LOOK AT A VERY COMMON FAULT WHEN IT COMES TO PLAYERS USING THE DRIVER WHICH LEADS TO SLICES AND SNAP HOOKS.

WATCH THE VIDEO AT WorldwideGolf WorldwideGolf

Swing and Slice after dark on the faldo courSe at emirateS golf club I-9674 Swing and Slice After Dark -WWG Strip Ad.indd 1

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COMMON MISTAKE: Many golfers open their upper body way too early in the downswing.

This fault causes the club to drag across the ball with the face open, resulting in the ball starting right and finishing further right.

The common reaction is then to try and collect the ball with the hands and arms resulting in a nonflighted snap hook.

Inconsistency and a lack of confidence guaranteed!

The simple fix and a common theme to our Academy tuition is to make sure the shoulders load on a more upright plane during the backswing.

Generally the modern driver is 46 inches long, which results in the player’s shoulders sitting back and working around during the backswing phase.

When you achieve this more upright plane and the feeling of the shoulders loading up, it goes a long way in preventing the fault of opening the body early during impact. When you achieve it you’ll feel the upper body is much more over the ball at impact.

You’ll also sense the downforce in the shoulders taking place prior to impact and your hands and arms swinging past your body as it eventually opens up.

I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO CONGRATULATE THE OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC CHAMPION AND MASTERS WINNER DANNY WILLETT. IT WAS GREAT TO WATCH HIM RECEIVE THE GREEN JACKET AND DELIGHTED HIS WORK WITH OUR ASSOCIATED MASTER PROFESSIONAL PETER COWEN AND MIKE WALKER HAS BEEN A MASSIVE SUCCESS.

For more information on how to develop your game, please get in touch with Head Professional Stephen Deane at The Dubai Golf Academy in association with Peter Cowen at Emirates Golf Club, Dubai.

Tee off after 8pm for 9 holes on the floodlit Faldo course and enjoy a tasty pizza before or after your round for just AED 265! *valid until 31st May 2016 For bookings, call +971 4 417 9800 or email ereservations@dubaigolf.com

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4/17/16 10:17 AM

INSTRUCTION

GAVIN SUTHERLAND

Senior Teaching Professional

European Tour Performance Institute

ETPI INTRODUCES

WORLDWIDE GOLF MET UP WITH SENIOR TEACHING PROFESSIONAL GAVIN SUTHERLAND TO GAIN AN INSIGHT INTO THE LATEST ADDITION TO THE COACHING TOOLS ON OFFER AT JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES’ EUROPEAN TOUR PERFORMANCE INSTITUTE (ETPI).

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What is Golf Biodynamics?

The GBD system is a device comprised of eight electromagnetic sensors that measure movement in a full 3D spectrum. The sensors are housed in a specially built vest that the golfer wears during the session. After calibrating the device to the student we can then accurately measure exactly how that student’s body moves to within 1˚ and 1 millimetre. It provides a huge amount of data relevant to the golfer’s swing that the coach can use to diagnose that student’s specific swing faults and help provide a clearer and more precise path to improvement.

How did it come to arrive at the ETPI? Several years ago I happened to be lucky enough to be the Assistant Golf Professional for Golf Biodynamics based at the Jim Mclean Golf School – what is now Trump Doral in Miami, USA. There I was working with the founder and creator of the device, Dr. Robert Neal, conducting 3D Biomechanics sessions for students of the Jim Mclean School. During this time I was fortunate enough to learn and collaborate with many top coaches and players and this really boosted my coaching knowledge. In coming to the ETPI, I noticed that the inclusion of the GBD system is one that can only complement the existing tools and coaching options on offer.

How long does it take?

How does it provide instant feedback?

The GBD system offers a unique biofeedback feature that enables the coach to set specific audio corridors for the student stay within. The ranges can be set in any way the coach requires and as the golfer swings they will hear an audio alarm if he / she moves outside of the set parameters. The real-time feedback provides an instant ‘feel’ for the correct movement and helps accelerate the understanding of the new movements.

The initial session would last an hour of which it takes about 15 minutes to set up and collect the initial data. Including an interpretive analysis comparing your swing to the ‘ideal’ numbers as well as a development plan for improvement, we would then conduct some biofeedback training for you to feel the correct movements. We would then re-record the new movement and conduct a comparison with the initial data.

Who can it help?

Everyone! It doesn’t matter what level of golfer you are, the information provided can assist anyone from beginners to professionals. The data helps link the technical swing mechanics to the physical movement of the golfer’s body as well as provide ‘real-time’ feedback for them to feel the correct movements instantly. The data tells you what you are doing right now and the biofeedback allows you to ‘feel’ the correct movement pattern.

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HEAD DOWN TO THE ETPI AT JUMIERAH GOLF ESTATES TO RECEIVE A LESSON FROM GAVIN AND TRY OUT THE INNOVATIVE GBD SYSTEM.

SEE THE DEVICE IN ACTION WorldwideGolf

ARABIAN GOLF News from the leading clubs in the region

SAADIYAT BEACH GOLF CLUB

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ARABIAN GOLF LOCAL NEWS ▶

E M I RATES GOLF CL UB RAZDAN AND RASHEED TOP HUGE TURN OUT FOR INDIAN INVITATIONAL RAJINDER Razdan and Qamar Rasheed came out on top of a field of 116 players in the 24th staging of the Indian Invitational Golf Day as they compiled 46 points in the better-ball Stableford format.

Finishing second, just one point behind, were Kush Sama and Vikram Arora while third place went to Aman Nanda and Tania Sangani with 44 points.

Winners Naima Maya and Haide Wright are pictured with Jasjeev Khandari of Hankook (Left) and Hwaseok Lee from Al Dobowi (Right).

ED HESSON CROWNED CLUB CHAMPION IN PLAY-OFF WITH BAXTER

MAYA AND WRIGHT CROWNED GREENSOMES CHAMPIONS

ED Hesson clinched the 2016 Club Championship with a two-hole play-off win over reigning Junior Champion Matthew Baxter. Hessson posted scores of 78-76 for a 154 total while Baxter’s back-to-back rounds of 77 saw him sign for the same tally. Baxter had a chance to win in regulation but his birdie putt at the last hole slid by and he composed himself enough to sink the 5-footer coming back to force the play-off.

Baxter again missed a relatively short birdie putt to win on the first extra hole and Hesson took full advantage on the next hole – the par-5 18th – hitting the green in two and then two-putting for birdie for the win.

Christian Klynge clinched the honours in Division ‘A’ with a net 142 after rounds of 73-69 which was good enough for a four-stroke win over Bipin Bhatia.

In Division ‘B’ David Thompson and Dileep Kumar both posted scores of 147 but it was Thompson’s stronger second round 73 that secured him the victory.

NAIMA Maya and Haide Wright clinched this year’s Hankook Greensomes Championship after a countback win over two other pairs with the scores locked at net 136.

Maya and Wright followed an opening round of 70 with an impressive 66, and it was their second round score which saw them take the title ahead of Anand Lakhiani and Nelly Armanani by two strokes in the countback and three from Christian Klynge and Soren Dam. An opening round of 65 from Klynge and Dam saw them take the lead but they could only manage a second round 71 to miss out on the countback.

One shot adrift on 137 was Abhinava Chandra and Rajinder Razdan in fourth place, while the best gross score of 153 came from Emirates Golf Club juniors Bradley Mogire and Hrithik Khurana.

SUDHIR STORMS TO VICTORY IN OMA MEDAL SUDHIR Vora stole the show with a superb net 8-under 64 to win Division ‘C’ in the recent OMA Emirates Medal by a clear margin of four strokes.

In Division ‘A’ (hcp 0-10) both Charles Hermon and Donavan Benson shot a net 71 and required a countback to settle the result. The pair both had identical scorecards on the back nine – apart from the famous closing hole where youngster Benson made a double bogey which cost him the top spot.

In third place in Division ‘A’ was Ewan Cameron with a net 72, but his gross score of 74 saw him take home the overall gross prize on the day.

In Division ‘B’ (hcp 10-20) Manish Bakshi came out on top with a 4-under net 68, one clear of Ishu Rupani with Joseph Smith third.

AMR SALEM AND FADY ISKANDAR CLINCH HICKORY CLUB OPENER THE Inaugural Hickory Club tournament in the region teed off recently over the Faldo course with competitors hoping to make their way through to the Barclays World Hickory Final in Carnoustie, Scotland, in October.

The stars of the opening fixture were Amr Salem and Fady Iskandar as they combined well to produce a 2-under-par score of 20 over nine holes to take the top spot. With the course set-up slightly shorter due to the unique hickory equipment and strong winds, 20 points was a superb effort and gave them a four-stroke win over Swati Singh and Anish Bhatia, with third place going to Josie Tracey and Elvira Smith.

The top three pairs qualified for the regional final on Saturday 10th September and the winning pair from the regional final will represent the region and Barclays in the World Hickory Open Championship Final at Panmure Golf Course in Carnoustie on Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th October.

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DUB A I C R E E K G O LF C LU B PANT IN COMMAND

Sudhir Vora with Emirates Golf Club Vice Captain Vipen Sethi

ALOK Pant stormed to a three-stroke win in last month’s OMA Emirates Medal thanks to an outstanding round of 4-under 67. Securing the honours in Division ‘A’ was the previous month’s runner-up, Ishwar Jodha with a 1-under 70 and a one-stroke win over Stephen Barker.

Taking the spoils in Division ‘B’ was Paul Khoo with a 72 ahead of Patrick Morrow by one stroke while the best gross prize once again went to Max Burrow with a 74.

In the Senior Division, Barry Henderson clinched the top spot with a 76 while Maureen Platt won the Ladies Division with a 72.

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Left to right: Rashid Hamood (DCGYC Golf Services Manager), winner Alok Pant, Patrick Morrow (DCGYC Men’s Captain) and Stephen Hubner (DCGYC Director of Golf).

ARABIAN RANCHES

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DUBAI CREEK GOLF CLUB

RON MURPHY TOP IN RIVOLI MEDAL

ENHANCEMENTS UNDERWAY AT ARABIAN RANCHES HANNAH ALAN SECURES THE DDF JUNIOR MEDAL HANNAH Alan clinched the March edition of the Dubai Duty Free Junior Medal Championship with an excellent score of net 32 over 9 holes, one clear of Samual De Souza and Aarnav Nath.

Alan had only recently received her EGF handicap and was delighted to win in what her first event.

“What a great feeling it is to win the first competition I ever entered,” smiled Alan after receiving the trophy.

Meanwhile, a gross score of 37 saw Rishi Nair clinch the best gross prize for the second month in succession.

A NUMBER of changes and enhancements are afoot at Arabian Ranches which will see an overhaul of the driving range facility and the short-game and teaching practice areas.

The teaching area is having irrigation installed and following its completion a chipping green and bunker will be constructed. The main teeing area of the driving range is being levelled and new target greens will be shaped and placed. The construction work on the tees should be completed by the end of this month with the surface installation finished in the first week of June.

Both members and guests alike will be able to enjoy a superb practice experience at the club once the work has been completed, with minimal disruptions to the facility while the work is ongoing.

RON Murphy clinched last month’s Rivoli Medal with a fine gross 75 and a two-stroke victory over Eddie Ramage with Gary Swan one stroke further back.

Tom Freer took the spoils in Division ‘A’ with a net 70, one clear of Franck Michaud while in Division ‘B’ Graham Alban shot a 69 to win by two from T.R. Vijayan.

The Ladies gross champion was Emma Rooms with an 82, a clear ten strokes ahead of runnerup Sheila Alban. The Ladies net winner was Tina Garner with a 73.

HONOURS EVEN HEADING INTO SCRATCH LEAGUE SEMI-FINAL SECOND LEG Arabian Ranches hosted Jumeirah Golf Estates in the first leg of their Scratch League Semi Final fixture and after a tense battle both teams emerged with two points each.

Each team, consisting of eight players, played better-ball match play and in the opening match Matthieu Charnelet and Tim Collins of ARGC were defeated on the final hole by the JGE team of Chris Wilmot and Carl Downham.

In the second match, Scott Sullivan and Kevin

Barrett were all square heading into the final hole with Simon Howells and Chris Alderman but Barrett delivered when it mattered most with a clutch birdie putt to seal the point to ARGC. In Match three Steve Kelbrick and Martin Fernandez defeated the ARGC team of Ron Murphy and Erik Hartzuiker 3 & 2 while in match four the ARGC team of Aaron Birch and Steve Bennett defeated the JGE duo of Chris Rahm and Graham Pascal 2-up.

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JUMEIR A H G O LF E S TAT E S

JGE HOSTS MASTERS CHALLENGE SACCHINI BACK TO WINNING WAYS DANIELLA Sacchini found herself back in the winner’s circle at last month’s Sofitel Ladies Medal with a solid 1-over 72 and a two-stroke victory. Maureen Platt and Sandra Anderson were the closest to Sacchini for the overall prize and they had to settle for wins in Divisions ‘A’ and ‘B’ respectively. Platt also won the Nearest the Pin prizes on holes 11 and 14 while Sacchini won the prize on hole 8.

AS Danny Willett was surging up the leaderboard to win his first Major at The Masters, JGE hosted a Masters Challenge of their own over the Earth course. The team format saw 76 players tee it up and coming out on top was the quartet of David Millar, Steve Pyle, Paul Moore and Nish Liyanage with a superb score of 104 points.

Taking second place, just two points back, were four members of the Taylor family – Hartley, James, Pamela and Matthew – while third place went to Paul Rennie, Colin Gow, Mark Bateman and Dean Stothard on 99 points.

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T H E ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE D UBAI

WHITE ON TOP IN AUDI STABLEFORD NIGEL White emerged victories in Division ‘A’ of last month’s Audi Individual Stableford after a countback win over Peter Samuel.

Both players play off nine and scored 37 points, however it was White’s stronger finish that saw him take the title.

Nikolai Ushakov ran away with Division ‘B’ with a superb 40 points haul, five clear of Oliver Watters with Brian Christie a point further back while the Ladies Division saw Elizabeth Samuel seal a commanding seven-point win over Hannah Carson with 42 points.

SOBATAI WALKS OFF WITH THE ECCO MEDAL MASOUD Sobati shot a gross 78 for a net 71 to take the spoils in last month’s Ecco Medal by one stroke from Paul Pitman, with James Nash third on a countback with a net 73.

James Haupt shot a gross 83 for a net 70 to win Division ‘B’ ahead of Myoung Kyu Shin, Ryan Klue, Nidal El Sayed and Stephane Claude on a countback.

The Ladies title went to 25-handicapper Handan KesebiKlue as she shot a superb gross 88 for a net 63 and a three-stroke

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win over Elizabeth Samuel. James Nash won the overall gross prize on the day with a 78 while the Ladies gross prize went to Samuel with her 81.

The Arch London is a luxurious Georgian townhouse hideaway in the heart of Central London. A regular resident amongst the top ten hotels in the capital on TripAdvisor, the officially rated five star property is renowned as one of London’s best kept secrets for those in the know. The hotel is tucked away on a calm residential street a stone’s throw from the city bustle of Bond Street, Hyde Park and the West End and spans seven Grade II listed former Georgian townhouses and two mews homes.

English heritage is fused with contemporary boutique design in the decor, which features walls covered in eye-catching hand-made wallpaper and artwork by rising British talents. The interior of the foyer is quietly glamorous, boasting studded leather, statement artwork, marble and glass, and a specially commissioned video painting of iconic London scenes is digitally projected. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ and Pride of Britain, the hotel boasts 82 bedrooms, including four sumptuous suites spread over six floors. Spacious interconnecting rooms are on offer for families or larger groups.

Guestrooms are all light, airy and spacious with high Georgian ceilings. The hotel also boasts a warm, opulent Martini Library lounge area for guests to enjoy fine cocktails or Afternoon Tea. Plus, Hunter 486 restaurant, which is named after the 1950s dialing code for Marylebone and offers a ‘Best of British’ inspired menu. Designed with an air of nostalgic London glamour, the restaurant features gleaming leather booths, blown glass chandeliers and statement artwork.

www.thearchlondon.com

ARABIAN GOLF LOCAL NEWS ▶

A B U DHABI CITY G O LF CL UB

GRAND MILLENNIUM MONDAYS OFF TO A GREAT START

JUNIORS ENJOY EASTER SUNDAY SHOWDOWN

THE first month of a new series of Grand Millennium Mondays ended in a thrilling climax with Michael Christofis turning a two-point deficit into a five-point victory.

Christofis, who plays off 12, compiled 23 Stableford Points in the final event of the month to reach a combined 42 points, which saw him home comfortably.

The Grand Millennium Mondays Series is open to all players with a valid EGF Handicap and is run over nine holes every Monday and, as well as weekly prizes, there is an overall Monthly prize, courtesy of Grand Millennium Al Wahda.

ROUND five of the Fast Rent a Car Junior League saw some very competitive scores as youngsters came together to compete in various age groups.

Winning the 18-hole event was Fanyi Kong with a gross 92 while the 8-hole boys and girls competition was won by Paul and Christa Rezko respectively, after both went round in 25 shots. Lavinia Pollendine won the 3-hole girls competition on 14 strokes while the same score saw Aldrin Cutinha win the 3-hole boys event. The 2-hole winner on the day was Bernardo Zembruski after completing the short course in 11 strokes.

Michael Christofis accepts his prize from ADCGC’s General Manager, Rhian Lobo.

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YAS LINKS ABU DHABI TEAM ‘JUMP SPORTS ACADEMIES’ WINS THE SECOND XEROX CORPORATE GOLF CHALLENGE QUALIFIER

CAPTAIN THOMAS CAPTURES THE MEDAL

Aseem Azim and Saquib Mahmood with 42 points.

The Nearest the Pin prize on hole 8 was won by Sungjin Hwang while the prize on the short 17th went to Ken Lowry. A new on-course competition was introduced for the 2016 season in the form of the ‘King of Pars’, which was sponsored by DeVere Acuma.

This competition recognises and rewards teams that perform best on the Par-3s, Par-4s and Par-5s.

The teams that score the best on the various hole types win a prize, and also enter the ‘Golden Ticket’ draw, which will see the lucky entrant win a place in the 2016

Grand Final. The ‘King of the Par-3s’ were Sungjin Hwang and Moonwon Jo; the Kings of the Par-4s were Peter Godard and Chris Hewett and Mira Milligan and Iain Milligan were King of the Par-5s.

SHARJAH GOLF AND SHOOTING CLUB

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CLUB Captain Thomas Kunt sealed the recent Audi Medal on a cool and windy day with a gross score of 80, while junior member Jonathan Selvaraj clinched the first prize in Category ‘A’ (hcp 0-12) with a net 75.

Mark Critchley fired a net 72 to come out on top in Category ‘B’ (hcp 13-28) with Lady Captain Andrea Hartley second, one stroke back.

MANNY Ostojic and Mattias Bjorn from ‘Jump Sports Academies’ secured the honours in the second qualifying round of the Xerox Corporate Golf Challenge recently with an excellent display around Yas Links.

Ostojic and Bjorn combined to score 47 points and win by two shots from Nicholas Hymas and Ghazi Arungazeb of the ‘Dubai & Surfers’ while in third place was Christopher Bentley and Christian Seear from The Strokers team after they won a countback with Hiram Diggines and Andrea Hartley from Dream Team.

In fifth place was the S&A team of

ALHEMOUD CROWNED LADIES OPEN CHAMPION JULIA Alhemoud sealed this year’s Ladies Open, in partnership with Yas Cycles, with a show-stopping gross 71 and a five-stroke win over defending champion Anastacia Bakal.

Yas Links member Teresa Sheepwash clinched the net spoils with a 75, one clear of Allison Muirhead.

BAE AND JEONG CLINCH THE ECCO CHALLENGE

LEE Sang Bae and Ka Hye Jeong clinched the top spot in the recent Ecco Challenge after scoring 44 points in the Pairs Betterball format.

The husband and wife team of Alan and Susan Brodie finished second, one point behind the winners, with third place going to Ian Butler and Christine Williams after they lost a countback to the Brodies.

PAUL NIGHTINGALE CROWNED CLUB CHAMPION PAUL Nightingale wrapped up his second Malaysia Truly Asia Club Championship title in three years after holding off Nathan Fisher and Ramli Sulaiman.

Nightingale, who won the event in 2014, produced a series of excellent shots down the stretch and signed for a second round 77 and a 153 total.

Fisher, the defending champion,

couldn’t produced the goods when it mattered, signing for a second round 79 to finish three behind Nightingale with Sulaiman further back, still in third place.

The Ladies winner was Y.D. Kim as she won her first Club Championship title with a 144 tally, overhauling the overnight leader Ove Pedersen to win by two.

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ARABIAN GOLF LOCAL NEWS

CONARES GOLF SOCIETY LEAGUE

EXPUTTS FACE FINAL SHOWDOWN WITH INDIAN EX-PATS GOLF SOCIETY TWO-time Conares Golf Society League winners, Dubai ExPutts, will face the Indian ExPats Golf Society in this year’s grand final after both had overcome tough opponents in the semi-finals.

The Dubai ExPutts, led by inspirational captain Phil Sharpe, made the final for the third time in the event’s eight-year history as they got the better of last year’s Semi Finalists, the South African Golf Society (SAGS).

Sharpe and Tom Main got the Dubai Exputts off to a winning start with a 3&2 triumph over Sinar Suraj and Aslam Semar and the duo of James Sanderson and Ken Johnstone won the 15th hole of their match to go dormie 3-up with. The SAGS fought back bravely to win the last three holes

to square the match but the overall result wasn’t affected as the ExPutts went through.

In the afternoon match the Indian Ex-Pats went toe-to-toe with Sport 2 Business and came out on top after some clutch putting.

Mutki Rai and Shaheen Butt got the Indian team off to a flyer against Filip Ranebo and Randall Mohammed and as their match was finishing the other game was on the 18th tee and all square, meaning a win for Sport 2 Business would have forced a play-off to see who goes through to the final.

However, a superb two-putt for par from Vivien Verma saw the hole halved and the match all square, meaning the Indian Ex-Pats progess.

The Dubai ExPutts made their way into the

semi-finals after two narrow wins over the Vikings in the quarter-finals.

John Sharpe and Ken Johnstone claimed an excellent 2&1 win over Gary Langthore and William Neilson while James Sanderson and Thomas Main defeated Mikko Hellman and Ove Perdersen with a 1-up win on the last hole.

The SAGS set-up their semi-final tie with the Dubai ExPutts with a tense play-off win over Lamprell in the quarter-finals while Sport 2 Business also needed a play-off to progress as they defeated the much-fancied Gulf Rock.

The final group to secure a semi-final berth was the Indian Ex-Pats and again it was a play-off that sealed it as they defeated the Asean team on the third extra hole.

SEMI-FINAL TEAMS - READY TO PLAY:

South African Golf Society

Sport 2 Business

Dubai ExPutts

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Indian Ex-Pats

ARABIAN GOLF LOCAL NEWS ▶

SHARJAH GOLF AND SHOOTING CLUB

Vanessa Jackson receiving her trophy from Martin Duff, Director of Golf.

JACKSON TAKES CORAL BEACH BY THREE

ENNORE WINS WILD AND WET ORIENT MEDAL PLAYED in unseasonably wet and windy conditions, last month’s Orient Travel Medal was won by Ennore Paoli with a net 69 for a twostroke win. Paoli started slowly but picked up the pace on the back nine with four net birdies and a net eagle.

Runner-up to Paoli in the morning session was Frederick Andersen with a net 71, while a net 72 saw Y.D. Kim win the afternoon session by five from Sinar Suraj.

NO MA YEOU CLAIMS THE SHARJAH CUP NO Ma Yeou produced the golf of his life to win the sixth staging of the Sharjah Cup Golf Championship with a two-day score of 76 to wrap up a commanding nine-stroke victory.

Yeou opened with a mightily impressive 41-point haul and sealed the victory with a second-round 35

to comfortably beat Namir Al Naimi to the title.

Taking the Ladies title was Jacqui Stewart with a 66-point haul, one point clear of Elsie Bruce with Vivian Verma third. The Gross winner for the weekend was Sinar Suraj with scores of 27 and 30 for a 57 point total.

VANESSA Jackson claimed her first victory of the year in the latest Coral Beach Resort Midweek Stableford with a superb nine hole score of 23 points in perfect conditions.

Jackson posted three net birdies and a net eagle to take the title by three strokes.

Division One winner was Mark Dupress with 20 points, three clear of Head Professional Joe Marshall while in Division Two Yangho Kim scored 19 points to seal the win by one point from Faizeen Bhyat.

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AL AIN EQUESTRIAN SHOOTING & GOLF CLUB FATHER BEATS SON ON HANDICAP DAY

Father and Son Edward and Lewis Chaffin collect their prizes

EDWARD Chaffin came out on top against his son Lewis in Division ‘C’ of the recent Handicap Day after scoring 43 points. Lewis’s score of 40 was good enough to take second place ahead of David Kerr by two points.

In Division ‘B’ there was a threeway card countback and coming out on top was John Walters ahead of Johan Potgieter and Kenny Franklin, respectively.

Club Captain Erik Smith clinched the honours in Division ‘A’ with 36 points ahead of Paul Ashford who, in turn, defeated Larry Benson on a countback to seal second place.

LOW SCORES UNDER THE LIGHTS A FANTASTIC net score of 24.1 saw two teams battle it out in a tense countback to see who would be crowned the victors in the recent back-nine shotgun Texas-scramble played under the floodlights. After

the cards were compared the winners were Edward and Lewis Chaffin and Sharon Cotgrave as they came out on top against Anton Van Schalkwyk, Mike Galvin and Kenneth King.

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TOWER LINKS GOLF CLUB DAVID DAZZLES UNDER THE STARS

RAYHAN THOMAS WINS ETIHAD MEN’S OPEN RAYHAN Thomas continued his development as he sealed the 2016 Etihad Airways Men’s Open with two solid round of gross 70 for a onestroke win over Tiago Lobo. Cristofer Rahm took third place while in the Net Division Neville Bakker stole the show as he followed a 66 with a 70 to win ahead of Ron Gladish with Chris Bolger in third place.

BIDDLECOMBE AND PAYNE MASTER THE MADNESS DAVID Biddlecombe and Simon Payne defeated a strong field to claim the 2016 Masters Midnight Madness on the Tower Links floodlit back nine. With 36 players teeing off in the 18 hole event (playing two loops of the back nine), defending Champions Manilyn and Johan Buxmann were heavily favoured to successfully defend their title but unfortunately struggled on the

greens, leaving the door open for the rest of the field. With the favourites struggling, Biddlecombe and Payne duly stepped up their game and took the title, with second place going to Mike Sherman and Ahmad Mustapha. In the non-handicap section, Joe Wivou and Simon Williams stole the show with a fantastic score of 67 to win by three from Miller Green and Any Lewis.

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DAVID Biddlecombe sneaked to victory in the recent social nine-hole individual bogey competition with a score of +3. Biddlecombe has been in steady form recently and that was highlighted by the gross pars he made on holes 12 and 16 – a pair of holes that usually proves to be his undoing.

Taking second place with a score of +2 was Andy Cormack after a countback win over Mike Magee.

Taking home the wooden spoon was David Michie.

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TOWER LINKS GOLF CLUB PARK AND ENGELBRECHT SHINE IN THE SENIORS

LUBBE AND PELLERINE DIG DEEP

ON a weekend when rain swept through the UAE two competitors stayed dry as they triumphed in the RAK Champion of Champions Medal Event.

Dewald Lubbe was victorious in the Men’s Division with a two-day total of 157 while Yuki Pellerine clinched the Ladies Division with a tally of 181.

SENIOR golfers from all over the Emirates teed it up in the fifth staging of the RAK Seniors Championship and some excellent scores were recorded in the two-day event.

Taking the spoils in the Men’s Division with a gross 157 was J.I. Park. The Tower Links member shot an 84 on day one at Al Hamra but he came roaring back with a 1-over 73 on his home course to take the title.

In the Ladies Division Rita Engelbrecht came up trumps with scores of 84 and 88 while in the Super Seniors Division Dave Thomas posted a score of 157 to win. The winners in the net categories were Eric Engelbrecht, Pat Mottershead and James Brown.

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DIRAB GOLF CLUB

MASLAK SECURES TURKEY TRIP WITH FINAL PUTT

ALMULLA AND AL HUSSAIN THE BIG WINNERS

AMERICAN Chris Maslak holed an incredible 30-foot putt on his final hole to secure victory in the Riyadh qualifying event of the Turkish Airlines World Golf Cup recently.

Masak claimed the main prize with a superb return of 44 points in the

OTHMAN Almulla and fellow Saudi national team standout Turki Al Hussain took home the top prizes in the 5th Annual Saudi Hollandi Bank Open Golf Tournament recently.

Almulla, for many years the face of amateur golf in Saudi Arabia, won Best Gross honours by one stroke over the long-hitting Faisal Salhab,

individual Stableford competition and progresses to the Grand Final in Antalya, Turkey, later this year.

Mohamed Shafiq beat Kamal Fareed to second place by virtue of a better back nine, after both players tied on a credible 42 points.

while Al Hussain shot a sparkling 8-under 64 to win the Best Net prize.

Patrick Kennedy shot a 66 to win Division Two (hcp 10-18) while Rashid Amin clinched the honours in Division Three (hcp 20-28) with a 67. The Ladies winner on the day was Sigard Steinarsdottir as she shot a 70 to win by one from Paromite Mukherjee.

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DOHA GOLF CLUB GRAY LEADS WAY FOR CHARITY

CLAES SHOWS HIS CLASS

ANDY Gray led his team to victory in the recent Keys & Gray Charity Classic as he and team-mates Chris Abrieu, Dan Murphy and Brandan Dolan romped home with a score of 93 points.

Finishing in second place, 11 points further back, was the team of Graeme Souness, Karl Bishop, Tom Long and James Tebbs as they won on a countback from the team of Tony Dorigo, Robin Butteriss , Houssam Weiss and Darrell Bergensen.

CLAES Byberg clinched last month’s Megarme Mug with a haul of 42 points from a gross round of 70.

The 3-handicapper fired an impressive back nine of 33, making five birdies and this was good enough to seal the win.

In Flight ‘B’ Takumi Hiraga took the spoils with a 43-point haul while Woon Ha Hong sealed the overall gross prize with 46 points. Phillipa Clancey won the Ladies Flight with 39 points.

QATAR MASTERS VOLUNTEERS ENJOY THEIR DAY THE volunteers who gave up their time to make the running of this year’s Commercial Bank Qatar Masters go so smoothly were invited to an 18-hole Texas-scramble tournament recently. Coming out on top was the team of Jeff Jernigan, Jim Delorme, Robb Hoiseth and Bruno Pierret with a score of 56.9. Finishing second on 59.6 was the team of Stewart Ambrose, John Gilmour, Denise Kool Kuntz and Jamie Patherick.

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ARABIAN GOLF LOCAL NEWS ▶

ROYAL GOLF CLUB DATE SET FOR LADIES CAPTAIN CHARITY GOLF DAY

Left to right: 2015 winners Mohamed Akeel and Rob and Debbie Lane.

2016 Ladies Captain Karin Lutz has confirmed that the staging of the second annual Ladies Captain Charity Golf Tournament in support of The Palm Association will take place this month on Saturday 7th May. The 18-hole event will tee off at the Club at 12:30pm and will be played in the fun Texas Scramble format.

Entry into the tournament costs BD 25 for Members and BD 35 for non Members. The Palm Association is a Bahrain-based charity run by women and providing assistance such as food parcels, educational sponsorship and home improvements for Bahraini women and children.

ST PATRICK’S RUMBLE A GREAT SUCCESS THE husband and wife team of Rob and Debbie Lane and Nils and Dagfrid Berge narrowly won the annual St Patrick’s Day Rumble Golf Tournament with a team score of 86 Stableford points. The team of David and Dena Wales, Ladies Vice Captain Stacey Thomas and Colin Dear took second place with a haul of 85 with third place going to the team of Phil Sadler, Peter Donkin, Jason Leighton and Gordon Bennie three points further back.

YAQOOB WINS THIRD PORSCHE EVENT BAHRAINI national team player Nasser Yaqoob clinched the top spot in the third event of the monthly Porsche Golf Cup Series last month with a gross score of 72, two clear of fellow national team player Sultan Al Hakam.

The net prize went to Dagfrid Berge with a 68, one clear of Colin Dear while the overall standings after three events in the series haven’t changed too much with Mohammed Al Sayed still leading the gross standings ahead of Barry Hobday with Hobday leading from Al Sayed in the net rankings. The series consists of seven rounds with each player’s best six scores out of seven representing their final score.

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ALMOUJ GOLF, OMAN

YOUNGSTERS SPARKLE IN SUCCESSFUL FIRST OGC JUNIOR OPEN THE Oman Golf Committee hosted their first Junior Open at Almouj Golf last month and the one-day championship was a big hit with some great scores posted by the youngsters.

The OGC had initially kept a cut-off of 54 players, but later expanded the field to 58 entries after an amazing response from the young golfing community in Oman.

The field was open to both Omani citizens as well as expatriates, and they played in the following 5 categories: Above-10 years (long tee), Above-10 years (medium tee), Under-9 years (long tee), Under-9 years (medium tee), Under-9 years (short tee).

The one-day championship was organised by the OGC in association with Oman LNG, which has been supporting Oman’s junior development programme year-round over the past few years, plus event partner Trowers & Hamlins. Arnav Dixit won the Above-10 (long tee) category, saying: “It feels nice to win this trophy. The competition was good. The conditions out there were also quite good today. I have been playing golf for a few years now, and I like playing the sport. It’s been a nice experience for me.”

Dixit produced a score of 36, with Cameron Henderson finishing runner-up three strokes back, while in the Above-10 (medium tee) category Shams Al Noumani defeated Ayman Al Muhrouqi on a countback after both had scored 57.

In the Under-9 (long tee) event Faris Al Busaidi scored 16 to win by two from Adam Al Barwani while in the Under-9 (medium tee) category Fahad Al Adawi clinched a countback win over Jake Sanderson after both players posted a score of 20.

In the Under-9 medium tee category, Fahad Al Adawi won on a countback with a score of 20, ahead of runner-up Jake Sanderson with 20 while the Under-9 (short tee) winner was Victor Nordberg

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with a three-stroke win over Riley Dunn.

The competition also witnessed a hole-in-one as Jachym Sedek achieved his first ace while playing in the Under-9 (long tee) category - and he was given a special prize for the rare feat.

KEVIN D’AMOURS TAKES CHEDI MEDAL KEVIN D’Amours delivered a gross 78 to take the spoils in last month’s Chedi Muscat Medal with Geetesh Tamse securing the net crown with a 72 from his gross 85, two clear of Paul Harthorn.

Shirley Prescott clinched the Ladies net prize with a 71 and a three-stroke win over Lady Captain Susan McInness.

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EMIRATES GOLF FEDERATION BIN MARGHOOB ON TOP JAMAL Bin Marghoob came out on top in the last National Monthly Medal of the 2015-16 season last month at Dubai Creek with a Stableford score of 37 points.

Second place with 34 points was Abdulla Al Marzooqi while in third was Yousef Al Ali with a 30-point haul.

Rashid Hamood clinched the best

gross score on the day with a 77 while the Division ‘A’ (hcp 0-14) title went to EGF Board Member Darwish Al Qubaisi with 29 points. The honours in Division ‘B’ (hcp 15-24) went to Sultan Al Ali while Rashid Al Qubaisi won the Junior Division by five points ahead of Khalid AL Mutawa with a superb score of 37 points.

All players that qualified for the Faldo Series Grand Final, (left to right) Matthew Faldo, Magdy Al Kholy, Christofer Rahm, Ryan Hunter, Mikkel Mathiesen, Kim Chiang, Alison Muirhead, Martine Garbutt, Eric Smith

SUCCESS FOR AL BALOOSHI IN AL AIN SAEED Al Balooshi clinched the honours in the Boys U-18 net category at the recent Faldo Series Middle East event in Al Ain Equestrian Shooting and Golf Club with rounds of 76-65-66 for a threeday total of 207. Dubai-based Swede Christofer Rahm claimed a win in the Boys Under 18 gross division while Mikkel Mathiesen clinched the Boys U-16 title and the Overall title with an impressive seven shot win.

Ryan Hunter secured his place in the Grand Final by winning the Boys

U-21 division with rounds of 74-7174 for a three-stroke win. Kim Chiang successfully defended her title in the Girls U-18 division with a five-stroke win over Sahana Paravantavida while the Girls U-21 saw Alison Muirhead come from behind to win by two strokes.

In addition to Al Balooshi, there was success for UAE Nationals Reema Al Heloo and Mahmood Skaik. Al Heloo secured second place in the Girls U-16 net division while Skaik finished third in the Boys U-16 net division.

DREAMLAND GOLF CLUB

Martin Kleinmann JW Marriott GM with winning team Andro Shilakadze, Khalil Huseynov, Refik Sabanovic, Neil Mckain and JW Marriott F&B Director Simon Beaumont

LOW SCORES IN THE JW MARRIOTT ABSHERON SCRAMBLE

Left to Right Brendan O’Leary, Lijo Jose – PING Prosport’s Dubai, Michael Sweenie Head PGA Professional Dreamland Golf Club with player Nabi Efendi - Azerbaijan National Youth Team

PING LAUNCHES AT DREAMLAND PING has officially launched at Dreamland Golf Club in Azerbaijan marking another significant feather in the cap of this wonderful new golf club.

Dubai-based Pro Sports International, PING distributor in the Middle East, hosted two fitting days at the end of April where the hotly anticipated G series was showcased to a full turnout.

Michael Sweenie, Head PGA Professional commented: “The launch of PING in Azerbaijan has been enjoyed by our members and guests

as the player profile in emerging markets is generally the mid to high handicap player.

“I’m pleased to say we received excellent feedback from all who tried the Ping G SF Tec Drivers and the new G series irons.

“For the slightly lower handicapped players, a chance to try the new Ping crossover series on Flight Scope gave the better player a more preferred look at address and more improved feel and playability than their long irons. We look forward to working with Pro Sports Dubai for our next event this summer!”

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A TOTAL of 80 players took to the course to compete for honours in the recent JW Marriott Absheron Scramble and coming out on top with a score of net 59.8 from a gross 68 was the team of Neil McKain, Refik Sabanovic, Andro Shilakadze and Khalil Huseynov.

The second placed team of Frank and Anna Wilson and Ewan and Susie Drummond also posted a gross 68, but their net score of 60.1 saw them settle for the bridesmaid position.

The third-place team of Jimmy McDade, Gregor Riddel, Kenny Mackenzie and Leo Troup posted exactly the same score as second place (gross 68, net 60.1) but lost out on a countback.

JW Marriott Absheron offered a hole in one prize of a presidential suite stay worth AZN 20,000, however no-one managed to ace any of the par-3s so the General Manager, Martin Kleinmann, put the prize up for auction with the proceeds going to the SOS children’s village charity. The stay was eventually sold for AZN 5,000.

STYLE&TRAVEL

LIVERPOOL LEGENDS

TALK GOLF Being a top level professional footballer is one of the most sought-after jobs in the world but it’s a career sorely lacking in longevity. However, the flip side is that retirement, which comes at an average age of just 35, leaves players with plenty of time to participate in the things that they love. For many of them, that means golf and plenty of it. Robbie Fowler, Jason McAteer, Dietmar Hamann and John Aldridge all enjoyed glittering careers with England’s Liverpool FC but these days it’s on the golf course that they get their competitive fix.

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STAR SPOTTING –LIVERPOOL LEGENDS EMIRATES SKYWARDS COMPETITION TRAVEL SCOTLAND DRIVING RANGE FORTNUM & MASON STAY & PLAY BAKU ‘FAVOURITE FIVE’: DAVID HORSEY

74 77 78 96 98 99 100

ROBBIE FOWLER AND JASON MCATEER: How often do you both get chance to play golf?

Robbie Fowler: I don’t play enough but Jason plays all the time!

It’s quite surprising actually because he has got a young family.

Jason McAteer: I used to play all the time but I don’t anymore. Looking after my young son is my main hobby these days. We always play as much golf as we can when we go on trips and take full advantage of our spare time. I would play every day if I could.

What handicaps do you both play off?

JM: I play off 8.

RF:Jason’s is a bandit 8! I play off 10.

Did you play more golf when you were footballers?

JM: I never played when I was a footballer. I actually didn’t lift a golf club up until I finished.

RF: I very rarely played. I think the public have an assumption that you have a lot of spare time when you are a player. You have a few afternoons off but

you usually just rest. I would have loved to have played from a young age and been better.

Jason has definitely made up for all the time he missed out on playing in his youth.

Which Liverpool players were the most passionate about golf?

JM: Jamie Redknapp loves golf and he is a very good player.

RF: Neil Ruddock and Gary McAllister are also quality at golf. I think the older players like: Alan Hansen, Gary Gillespie and Ronnie Whelan were all very good players. They seemed to have more time off than our generation.

Who are the best golfers you have ever had a round with?

RF: I played with Dame Laura Davies in a Pro-Am at the Ladies British Open which was a great experience because she is a huge Liverpool fan and I learnt lots from her on the course. I’ve also played with Thomas Bjørn and Thorbjørn Olesen as well which was great.

JM: I find it a little bit intimidating

playing with the pros in tournaments because you crumble a bit. I prefer just playing with three of mates when the banter’s flying and there’s no pressure. That for me is the perfect day.

What are the strengths in your games?

JM: Robbie’s good at driving. If he gets that going he will perform well.

RF: Jason’s a great player but you can get into his head so if we are having a ‘charity wager’, I fancy myself.

JM: I’m ashamed to say it but my etiquette is absolutely awful on the golf course. I’m a very selfish golfer who is far too competitive and hot-headed.

Have you ever got yourself into trouble on a golf course?

RF: Year and years ago I was in a buggy looking for a ball and my partner reversed into the tree and a wheel fell off. That was difficult to explain.

JM: I once got told off by the marshall for urinating in a

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bush. That’s one of my most embarrassing moments.

Who are your favourite professional golfers to watch?

JM: I had the opportunity to watch Rory McIlroy on the range a few years ago. I was giving him some stick because he had a Manchester United bag and he wasn’t too happy. Watching him made me realise quickly how much of a ‘different animal’ these players are.

RF: Yeah McIlroy is my favourite player to watch. His swing and his mechanics are unbelievable.

When I played with Bjørn, he made the game look so effortless. It’s kind of annoying when you’re trying your hardest to whack the ball around the course!

JM: I’m a big fan of Shane Lowry and Jordan Spieth. Spieth is brilliant because he is like your club golfer that has an incredible attitude. However I think you learn more from watch the Ladies because they take their time more so I enjoy doing that.

S TA R S POT T I N G

DIETMAR HAMANN

Are you a keen golfer Didi?

Yes I am. Golf is a funny old game because one day you play well and the next week you struggle.

It’s a constant challenge and something that I love doing away from football.

What do you play off?

My handicap is between 12 and 14. However, I haven’t competed in many tournaments. I’ve taken quite a few lessons lately to try and improve and get to that next level but it’s not the sort of sport that you can master unless you play on Tour.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

I’m not very good at putting so if I wanted to score well I could definitely do with improving this.

I can hit my driver well so that is probably my strength. I just struggle once I get to the green!

What’s the best course you’ve ever played on?

I’ve played some fantastic

courses over the years. I didn’t live far from Hoylake when I played for Liverpool which is a beautiful course.

Who are the best players you’ve ever played a round with?

I usually play with mates but I have had the privilege to play with a few golfers. I always enjoy playing with Jamie Donaldson who’s a mate of mine so I hope he does well in 2016 and gets his game back to its best.

Who’s the best out of you, Fowler, McAteer and Aldridge?

I’d have to say McAteer is. He’s a good golfer who’s always practicing. He always has the most sophisticated equipment and tools when he’s playing.

He’s better than his handicap suggests!

Didi’s Fantasy fourball...

Tom Brady Tiger Woods Shane Warne Didi Hamann

JOHN ALDRIDGE How often do you play golf?

I like to play golf as much as possible but it can be difficult in England in the winter. I love going to Portugal to play.

What’s your handicap?

I’m not the best! I like to have a shot a hole so my handicap is 18. Four or five years ago I got my handicap down to 15 but unfortunately that didn’t last too long. Bad habits soon crept in…

What are the strengths in your game?

My putting is decent but I’m far too inconsistent with all the other areas in my game.

I absolutely love playing and having a good laugh with the lads on the course.

What’s the best golf course you’ve ever played on?

I’ve been fortunate enough to be invited to play on an array of fantastic courses so it’s hard to choose. I love Hillside Golf Club in Merseyside. That’s

special to me. In Portugal my favourite course is Bellavista.

I host most of my charity golf events there. You’re completely spoilt for choice in Portugal, a bit like the UAE! What’s been the best fourball you have ever played with?

I have played a few holes with Darren Clarke. But my favourite players to play with are the ex-footballers because we always have a great laugh.

What would your dream fourball be and why?

1. Jose Mourinho – I would love to have a few hours chatting to him around a golf course.

2. Ringo Starr – Lots of people in Liverpool have a mixed opinion about him so it would be great to see what he is like.

3. Pamela Anderson – Don’t have to explain that one!

4. John Aldridge

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2016 Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open competition with Emirates Airline Pro-am date: July 6

Tournament Date: July 7-10, 2016

Win

Venue: Castle Stuart Golf Links, Inverness

2 x Flights from Dubai to Glasgow return 1 x place in the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open Pro-Am 2 x VIP hospitality passes for all four days of the tournament

2015 Champion: Rickie Fowler

To enter go to: www.worldwide.golf Worldwide GOLF 77

THE AILSA COURSE REBORN A dramatic coastal destination.

A masterpiece unveiled. An icon reborn.

From the 1st of June, the legendary Ailsa course at Trump Turnberry will be available for play following a highly anticipated renovation. Experience the exhilarating changes on this famous course and become part of golfing history as one of the first to take on the reborn Ailsa.

Tee off from just £585* per person, which also includes overnight accommodation in one of Trump Turnberry’s lavishly upgraded bedrooms, inclusive of breakfast, and a three course dinner in the hotel’s 1906 restaurant.

*Selected dates. T&Cs apply. Based on single occupancy.

To book call 01655 333 991 or visit www.trumpturnberry.com

Golf in

Travel

Scotland A

LL EYES will be focussed on Scotland this summer as The 145th Open Championship returns to Royal Troon on the Ayrshire coast, scene of so many epic encounters. The Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open heads North again to Castle Stuart, venue for the 2011-2013 championships won by Luke Donald, Jeev Milka Singh and Phil Mickelson, respectively, with Mickelson going on to win The Open at Muirfield the following week in 2013. The Senior Open is back at Carnoustie in July where the legends of the game will battle it out on the famous links. The Paul Lawrie Match Play goes South from Murcar Links, Aberdeen, to Scotland’s Golf Coast and the famed Archerfield Links, which also welcomes the Prostate Cancer UK Scottish Senior Open for the second year in succession. The AAM Ladies Scottish Open is hosted by Dundonald Links, Ayrshire, in July. The exclusive Renaissance Club hosts the Scottish Boys Championship, along with Muirfield in August. The SSE Scottish Hydro Challenge takes place at Spey Valley Golf Club in Aviemore in June. Scotland, the Home of Golf, boasts some of the finest courses in golf. Whether you’re watching or playing – or both – here we offer a flavour of the many and varied courses where golfers can be assured a welcome and an experience to remember.

Look out for this yellow icon for an approximate mileage guide from Glasgow International Airport

All Emirates Airlines flights to Scotland are to Glasgow International Airport. For the most part of this feature we have given the distance from the airport to the courses, as many of you will opt to fly and drive.

Please look out for the yellow airport icon for the approximate mileage.

Self-drive car hire is by far the most cost efficient way to navigate your way around the vast, varied and extensive Scottish golfing landscape and Worldwide Golf has teamed up with Arnold Clark Car Hire to offer all our readers an exclusive 20% discount, using the code WWGM. Scotland boasts more than 550 golf courses from its famous links to its spectacular parkland gems, each one with its own personality and unique characteristics.

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Scotland’s Golf Coast

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t was a momentous couple of weeks on Scotland’s Golf Coast recently when the announcements were made that Archerfield will become the new host of the Paul Lawrie Match Play, in addition to hosting the Prostate Cancer UK Scottish Senior Open for the second year running. It was also unveiled that the Renaissance Club will be one of the new Final Qualifying venues for The Open in 2018. To match that, Scotland’s Golf Coast launched its new website with its fantastic ‘planning’ facilities, enabling golfers to tailor-make their visit to the East Lothian Coast for these amazing events and a wide variety of golfing memorable trips to the area – www.golfeastlothian.com With all eyes on Scotland’s Golf Coast last summer and the first Aberdeen Asset Managment Scottish Open at Gullane, won by American Rickie Fowler, it is befitting that the East Lothian Coast continues to attract high profile golfing events, such as the Paul Lawrie Match Play, won by Kiradech Aphibarnrat at Murcar Links, which this year will be played on Archerfield’s Fidra Links (Aug. 4-7) as will the Prostate Cancer UK Scottish Senior Open (Aug. 19-21).

These clubs are just two of the 18 golf clubs comprising the 22 courses that make up the alliance of Scotland’s Golf Coast along the spectacular 30 mile coastline from Musselburgh, on the outskirts of Edinburgh, to Dunbar in the East. It’s a collection of of outstanding links and inland courses, incomparable to any golfing destination in the world.

Castle Park Golf Course This parkland course, built on a site close to the majestic beech and conifer woodlands of the Yester Estate, is an 18-hole, naturally undulating layout, nestled amongst mature woodlands with the Lammermuir Hills providing a spectacular backdrop to the South. The 11th century ruins of Yester Castle proudly overlook the 5th green, adding to the charm of the surroundings situated near Gifford on a site that was formerly the deer park for the Castle. castleparkgolfclub.co.uk

Archerfield Links The Fidra Links has an atmosphere that makes you feel that it’s just you and the course out there. Its 18 holes present a unique mixture of pine forest and fast -running links. The Dirleton Links is set on coastal land that has hosted golf for over 100 years. European Tour and Senior Tour winner D.J. Russell created the 18 holes of the Dirleton Links. It’s a challenging expression of a traditional Scottish Links with its sweeping fairways, deep, menacing bunkers and undulating dunes. www.archerfieldgolfclub.com

Craigielaw Golf Club The Donald Steel-designed Championship course is one of East Lothian’s newest courses, which certainly meets the challenging standards of its illustrious neighbours. The course, practice facilities and clubhouse are perfect for visitors and corporate golf days. With challenging greens, cavernous bunkers and spectacular views over the Firth of Forth, Gullane Hill and Edinburgh and Fife, it’s an experience not to be missed. Craigielaw is also home to the Eric Grandison Golf School. www.craigielawgolfclub.com

Dunbar Golf Club Famous for its par four 12th hole, 460 yards by the sea with a cross wind, this is one of the best links courses in the country. Opening with two par-5s the course then hugs the coastline along a narrow strip of land within yards of the waves crashing onto the rocky shore. With 14 consecutive holes running along the Firth of Forth, and an internal ‘Out-ofBounds’ wall at the 18th, this is an outstanding test of golf. An Open qualifying course, Dunbar GC has hosted the PGA Championship, the Scottish PGA and the Scottish Amateur, plus many ladies events. www.dunbargolfclub.com

Gullane Golf Club Gullane’s three outstanding links courses offer a number of alternatives with No.1 boasting some of the most spectacular views in golf. Last year’s Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open was played on a composite course of No.1 and No.2.

Gullane No.1, an Open qualifying course, has hosted many great championships.

Gifford Golf Club Situated beside the picturesque village of Gifford, this is an outstanding 9-hole parkland course with the Lammermuir hills as its backdrop. Its enormous, first-class greens are playable all year round and any putting weaknesses will be exposed here. There are two sets of tees to the 1st/10th green and the 5th/14th with the Speedy Burn running across the course, affecting shots at four holes. www.giffordgolfclub.com Glen Golf Club North Berwick’s East Links course combines inland turf with a seaside setting. Every hole offers a different perspective of the Firth of Forth, with spectacular views of the Bass Rock. Elevated tees and greens across the course mean that careful club selection, consistency and confidence in your iron play are vital. Originally laid out as a 9-hole course in 1894 it was extended to an 18-hole course in 1906, . www.glengolfclub.co.uk

www.gullanegolfclub.com

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Inverness

Highlands & Islands Aberdeen

Central

Glasgow

South

Dundee

Edinburgh

Musselburgh Golf Club This Open Championship qualifying venue is a challenging parkland course set to test the best golfers. It nestles in a picturesque loop formed by the River Esk, overlooked by the historic village of Inveresk. It is densely populated by trees where long, accurate hitting is essential. The 18th is a tough uphill hole offering a splendid view of the magnificent art deco clubhouse. www.themusselburghgolfclub.com

22

courses make up the alliance of Scotland’s Golf Coast along the 30 mile stretch of coast from Musselburgh, on the outskirts of Edinburgh, to Dunbar in the East.

Haddington Golf Club For a steady enjoyable round on a quiet, country estate Haddington is ideal. Mature trees line most holes and the River Tyne is the course’s north boundary. Accurate, reliable iron-play and alterations to the back nine mean that water hazards are a major obstacle on the home stretch with the ponds at the 12th, 13th and 14th punishing any mistakes. www.haddingtongolf.co.uk Kilspindie Golf Club This medium-length course is a good test of golf and a challenge to all golfers. Several holes border the shoreline and each hole enjoys magnificent views. The 8th hole, par three, overlooks Gosford Bay and demands a shot that will carry over the beach – a tough challenge for all golfers on a windy day. www.kilspindiegolfclub.co.uk Longniddry Golf Club Among the courses lining the Forth estuary, Longniddry stands out for its mixture of links and parkland. With no par 5s and eight 400 yards par 4s, this is a stiff challenge, particularly in a west wind, leaving no doubt why the course has been an Open qualifying venue. One of its memorable holes is the 5th, a relatively short dog-leg par four of 310 yards to a two-tier green. Trees line both sides of the fairway, as well as the apex of the dog-leg. www.longniddrygolfclub.co.uk Royal Musselburgh Golf Club.

This parkland course designed by James Braid offers rare views of Edinburgh and Arthur’s Seat. The challenge comes on the homeward stretch where a series of par 4s are guarded by trees. The par three 14th, ‘The Gully’, penalises short tee shots with a 50

foot drop just in front of the putting surface. Among the oldest golf clubs in the world, the magnificent clubhouse has a superb collection of golfing memorabilia well worth a visit. www.royalmusselburgh.co.uk Musselburgh Links The Old Course is a 9-hole, par 34 links course, located in the heart of town, surrounded by Musselburgh Racecourse. The historic golf course, reputed to be one of the oldest playing golf course in the world, was an original Open venue, hosting the Championship on six occasions between 1874 and1889. For a unique golfing experience, you can hire hickory golf clubs and play the game as it was played in The Old Golf Course’s heyday. Further information is available from the Starter. www.musselburgholdlinks.co.uk

Muirfield

Host to The Open 16 times, Muirfield is perhaps the fairest test of a golfer’s ability to play links golf. Phil Mickelson followed his victory in the 2013 Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open a week later by winning his first Open, at Muirfield. The best players thrive on its numerous great holes, but the looped layout means that the wind differs at every hole.

www.muifield.org.uk

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North Berwick Golf Club An Open qualifying venue (6 times) and one of the best and most scenic links in Scotland, with views over the Isle of May, the islands of Fidra and Craigleith, the Bass Rock and across the Firth of Forth to Fife. The course rewards strategy and guile rather than power hitting. The par three 15th, ‘Redan’, copied across the world, is 192 yards long with bunkers and a sloping green protecting the pin. Formed in 1832, North Berwick GC and the West Links is one of the most historic in Scotland. www.northberwickgolfclub.com The Renaissance Club One of the world’s most exclusive golf clubs and has been lauded by experts globally as one of golf’s most exquisite venues. Founded on respect for traditions of the game, acclaimed course architect Tom Doak has created a breathtaking, windswept links amidst a stunning landscape, which expertly showcases the natural features of the incredible grounds. The course is recognised as a modern masterpiece of golf course design. www.trcaa.com Winterfield Golf Course The coastal location means the wind is a major factor. A sequence of holes takes players out on a windswept headland into the North Sea. There are eight par 3s on the course but many are well over 200 yards long. The 1st is a very tough par three at 238 yards off the back tee, over a ravine with the Firth of Forth on your left. www.winterfieldgolfclub.info

MAKE GLASGOW YOUR GATEWAY TO SCOTLAND’S GOLF

IF YOU LOVE GOLF AND WANT TO DISCOVER SCOTLAND AT THE SAME TIME, THEN SCOTLAND’S BIGGEST CITY, GLASGOW, IS YOUR GATEWAY TO THE FAIRWAYS.

Trump Turnberry Golf Course

Photography by www.chrisclose.co.uk

As excitement grows in advance of The 145th Open at Royal Troon in Ayrshire this summer ( July 14-17), Scotland is gearing up for a golf invasion as aficionados from all over the world arrive in the Home of Golf for the sport’s oldest and most important major championship.

For many golf fans and enthusiasts, Glasgow Airport will be their gateway not just to Royal Troon but to all of the most prestigious golf courses in Scotland including the world-famous Old Course at St Andrews in Fife and the PGA Centenary Course at Gleneagles in Perthshire, both an easy drive from Glasgow.

From Glasgow, your tour of Scotland’s great golf courses can easily take in the Ayrshire giants of Royal Troon, Prestwick - the birthplace of The Open - and The Ailsa at Turnberry. From Ayrshire, head back towards Glasgow, stopping at The Carrick on Loch Lomond before heading for Gleneagles and St Andrews.

The best way to explore Scotland, its stunning scenery and amazing golf courses is to fly direct to Glasgow with Emirates.

The leading airline’s twice-daily flights in and out of Glasgow give you the flexibility to travel any day of the week.

Indeed, there are over 90 superb golf courses within one hour of Glasgow.

Here is a rundown of some of the most popular courses.

THE EARL OF MAR GOLF COURSE 15 miles from Glasgow The River Clyde and Kilpatrick Hills offer a stunning backdrop to The Earl of Mar Course at Bishopton, Renfrewshire.

Designed by renowned golf course architect Dave Thomas, this Championship course promises golfers a five-star experience. marhall.com

THE CARRICK ON LOCH LOMOND 25 miles from Glasgow Located on the bonny banks of Loch Lomond. The Carrick was designed by acclaimed golf course designer Doug Carrick. This 71 par course is set against breathtaking scenery. thecarrickgolf.co.uk

PRESTWICK GOLF CLUB 33 miles from Glasgow A simple stone cairn to the west of Prestwick’s clubhouse marks the spot where the first Open Championship tee shot was struck in 1860. Today, it is a challenging course featuring rugged dunes and one that no serious golfer should miss when visiting Scotland. prestwickgc.co.uk

ROYAL TROON GOLF CLUB 35 miles from Glasgow The Old Course at Royal Troon in Ayrshire is one of the greatest links courses in the world – it is also among the most challenging, attracting golfers from all over the world and will be the host course for the 2016 Open. The Portland and Craigend Courses are also at Troon and offer an excellent game of golf. The Open was first staged at Troon in 1923. royaltroon.co.uk

GLENEAGLES 50 miles from Glasgow Home to three Championship golf courses, world-famous Gleneagles in glorious Perthshire was host venue of the 2014 Ryder Cup, played over the PGA Centenary Course created by Jack Nicklaus.

The King’s Course was designed to challenge even the most accomplished of players while The Queen’s Course inspires with its beautiful setting. gleneagles.com

TURNBERRY 50 miles from Glasgow Turnberry’s iconic Ailsa Course has witnessed some of the most memorable moments in Open history. With stunning views, it is undoubtedly one of the most treasured links courses in the world. From June 1, the Ailsa course will be available for play following a highly anticipated renovation. trumpturnberry.com

THE OLD COURSE, ST ANDREW’S 75 miles from Glasgow St Andrews - the Home of Golf - needs no introduction. The oldest and most iconic golf course in the world, it remains a public course. Winners of The Open at St Andrews include Tom Morris, Jack Nicklaus, Seve Ballesteros and Tiger Woods. standrews.com

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Golf in Scotland

Ayrshire

Trump Turnberry On the rugged west coast an icon is being reborn. The legendary Turnberry Hotel and its famous links courses are undergoing an impressive renovation, due to be unveiled next month. The host of four Open Championships – including the iconic Duel in the Sun between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus in 1977 – Turnberry’s Ailsa course is having five new holes created at the 6th, 9th, 10th, 11th and 14th , together with alterations to all other holes, including the reshaping and positioning of bunkers, new tees and green positions and the softening of green contours to provide for more options for flag positions. The iconic lighthouse, which has acted as a timeless beacon for golfers from around the world, is also re-emerging as the world’s most impressive half-way house. In addition, the links courses Kintyre and Arran both offer a superb golfing experience. Standing sentinel, overlooking the course, the instantly recognisable Turnberry Hotel is undergoing a renovation that will see a transformation of all the bedrooms, featuring large marble bathrooms with many offering spectacular views across the Irish Sea, plus the Donald J.Trump Ballroom. www.trumpturnberry.com

56 miles

Kilmarknock Barassie Golf Club Founded in 1887, there are 27 holes at Kilmarnock Barassie Golf Club, all of which represent a tough test of golf. When Rebecca Hudson won the Ladies British Amateur Championship in 2001, her fourround score was 300. Undulating fairways, gloriously blooming heather and punishing bunkers all feature strongly at Kilmarknock Barassie Golf Club.

28 miles www.kbgc.co.uk Troon Links Troon Links is a collection of three courses on the outskirts of the town of Troon. The Darley course is a traditional links that measures 6,300 yards while the Lochgreen course is mostly links with one small stretch of parkland. At 6,785 yards and a par-74, the Lochgreen is the longest of the three. Completing the trio is the Fullarton course which is a much shorter course at just under 5,000 yards. Eight par-3s and only one hole longer than 400 yards make this a great option for those looking for a quicker round.

39 miles www.golfsouthayrshire.com Dundonald Links Designed by Kyle Phillips and opened in 2003, the 18 holes at Dundonald Links required little to no stone or earth movement in order to make it into one of the most beautiful courses in the region. Generous fairways and greens enhance the natural lie of the land and make for a memorable experience, every time you tee it up. Last year the course hosted the Ladies Scottish Open, with Australia’s Rebecca Artis winning by two shots ahead of Norway’s Suzann Pettersen.

Largs Golf Club Although situated on the coast, Largs Golf Club has more features in common with an inland course. With lush fairways, wandering burns and tree-lined dog-legs, the course offers a fair but rewarding challenge.

24 miles www.largsgolfclub.co.uk Prestwick Golf Club The birthplace of The Open Championship in 1860, Prestwick Golf Club is a quintessential Scottish links course. Sandwiched neatly between the coast and a railway line, Prestwick has blind tee shots, deep bunkers (guarding fairways and greens) and firm and fast greens.

39 miles www.prestwickgc.co.uk

Royal Troon Golf Club The Old Course at Royal Troon hosts The Open for the ninth time this year and features one of the shortest holes in professional golf – the aptly named ‘Postage Stamp’ par-3 which measures just 125 yards off the tee. The prevailing north-westerly wind makes the back nine a tough prospect, so accuracy and shot-making are at a premium on this heavily bunkered course.

39 miles

www.royaltroon.co.uk

28 miles www.dundonaldlinks.com

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Golf in Scotland

Central: Fife

E

ncompassing Fife, Angus and stretching beyond Glasgow towards the west coast through south Perthshire and the Trossachs National Park, the central cross section of Scotland has some of the finest golfing facilities in the world. Towards Fife there is the historic town of St Andrews, while just north of the estuary lies The Open venue Carnoustie. Moving inland there are the classic parkland courses at Gleneagles and Loch Lomond.

St. Andrews The Home of Golf has seven golf courses, including the historic Old Course, on which golf has been played for 600 years. Host of The Open 29 times, the Old Course is where the game began and anyone can book a tee time to play the old links. The Old Course is ably backed up by the New Course, the Jubilee Course, the Eden Course, the Strathtyrum Course, the Castle Course and the 9-hole Balgove Course.

83 miles

www.standrews.com Kingsbarns Golf Links Designed by Kyle Phillips (who created the world-renowned Yas Links course at Abu Dhabi, UAE), Kingsbarns is one of the co-hosts for the European Tour’s Alfred Dunhill Links Championship every year and also hosts Final Qualifying for The Open when The Championship is played at St Andrews. The North Sea is viewable from nearly every hole and its modern links-style is a hit with golf fans from around the world.

90 miles

www.kingsbarns.com

Fairmont St Andrews With two championship courses, Fairmont St Andrews offers premium golf with panoramic views of both the town of St Andrews and the Fife coastline. Both courses are widely acclaimed – including one designed by European Tour and European Senior Tour winner and former Ryder Cup player and Captain Sam Torrance – and a composite course featuring holes from both layouts was presented to host the Scottish Senior Open on six occasions.

86 miles

www.fairmont.com/st-andrews-scotland/golf

Crail Golfing Society Formed in 1786, the Crail Golfing Society is the 7th oldest golf club in the world. It has two superb links courses which offer stunning views along with challenging and always enjoyable golf. The Balcomie course is a gentle par-69 with six par-3s while the Craighead links is a par 72 with the sea visible from every hole. The Craighead is renowned architect Gil Hanse’s first course design outside the USA. 90 miles www.crailgolfingsociety.co.uk

Worldwide GOLF 87

Golf in Scotland

Central: Aberdeenshire

Trump International Golf Links Set amidst The Great Dunes of Scotland, Trump International Golf Links embraces mile after mile of spectacular Aberdeenshire coastline and guarantees the experience of a lifetime. The highly acclaimed 7,400 yards championship par 72 course is designed by renowned links golf architect, Dr. Martin Hawtree, and follows a classical pattern of two out-and-back loops of nine. Woven through the majestic dunes, the course rises to find panoramic views of the sea and plunges into secluded valleys. Trump International features the largest practice facilities in the country with its 22-acre driving range. Each hole boasts distinct characteristics and unique features and with six tees on every hole the course is suitable for all levels of golfer. The exclusive 19-bedroom five-star MacLeod House and Lodge, set in a secluded and dramatic location in the heart of the magnificent ancient estate, provides unsurpassed luxury accommodation, comfort and service.

165 miles www.trumpgolfscotland.com Murcar Links Established in 1909 and designed by Archie Simpson, Murcar Links is one of the most celebrated public links courses in Scotland. It has hosted both European Tour and Challenge Tour events plus the European Girls Team Championship and the Scottish Amateur Strokeplay. The links has undergone many alterations over the years but retains plenty of character and is a fair test for all.

158 miles

Royal Aberdeen Golf Club The Balgownie Links at Royal Aberdeen is one of the truest links layouts in all of Scotland. The opening nine holes wind their way through natural dunes while the back runs along a plateau. This course has an abundance of history, having hosted the Walker Cup in 2011 and the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open in 2014 when England’s Justin Rose was victorious. Royal Aberdeen is reputed to be the sixth oldest golf club in the world.

157 miles

www.royalaberdeengolf.com

Worldwide GOLF 88

www.murcarlinks.com

EXPERIENCE THE T R A D I T I O N S O F G O L F, T H E M O D E R N W A Y.

8 FANTASTIC LINKS AND PARKLAND COURSES, INCLUDING 3 JAMES BRAID CLASSICS, OPEN ALL YEAR TO VISITORS AND SOCIETIES. BRAND NEW GOLF PACKAGES AND MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE.

“Keep on hitting it straight until the wee ball goes in the hole.”

JAMES BRAID (1870 – 1950)

T E L E P H O N E : 0 1 2 9 2 616 2 5 5 • G O L F S O U T H AY R S H I R E . C O M I N F O @ G O L F S O U T H AY R S H I R E . C O M

Golf in Scotland

Central: Angus

Monifieth Golf Links Just down the road from Carnoustie, Monifieth Golf Links has 36-holes of classic links golf for players of all levels. Regularly featured in ‘top 100’ lists, Monifieth has hosted the Scottish Boys Championships and the Scottish Ladies Amateur Championship.

96 miles

www.monifiethgolf.co.uk

Central: Perth and Kinross

Carnoustie Golf Links The famous Championship course at Carnoustie has hosted seven Open Championships and is one of the three courses that host the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. A notoriously tough track, Carnoustie is not for the faint-hearted. The two accompanying 18-hole courses – the Burnside and the Buddon Links –may not have the ‘wow’ factor of the Championship course, but they both ooze character and offer welcome respite from the their tougher big brother. This year Carnoustie hosts The Senior Open Championship for the second time. Ireland’s Padraig Harrington was the last winner of The Open when it was played at Carnoustie in 2007.

101 miles

www.carnoustiegolflinks.co.uk

Gleneagles With three sumptuous championship courses, Gleneagles offers something for everyone. For those golfers with a sense of history they can follow the footsteps of their 2014 Ryder Cup heroes on the PGA Centenary course, which played host to the biennial event two years ago.

The King’s course opened in 1919 and has stood the test of time for almost a century, while the Queen’s course threads its way through the high ridges to the north of the estate and offers some impressive views and plenty of dramatic shot-making potential.

55 miles

www.gleneagles.com/golf

Central: Stirlingshire Murrayshall House Hotel The pair of courses at Murrayshall are two of the finest in Perthshire and both contrast each other in memorable ways. The Murrayshall Championship course is both wider and longer than the Lynedoch, which has tighter shots off the tee and on the approach shots, courtesy of the tall and abundant Scots Pine trees. Both courses have hosted Scottish PGA events and Murrayshall was recently the first Scottish venue to hold a Trilby Tour event.

75 miles

The Carrick on Loch Lomond About a half an hour’s drive north of Glasgow Airport lies the stunning Carrick on Loch Lomond. The course is sandwiched between the calm waters of the Loch and stunningly beautiful wooded terrain and was host to the Ladies Scottish Open in 2007. Named after course architect Douglas Carrick, the course straddles the Highland boundary fault line, with the opening 9 played on the Scottish lowland and the inward nine played in the highlands.

The ‘Wee Demon’ 9-hole course is a superb place to warm up for the Championship test.

18 miles

www.murrayshall.co.uk

Worldwide GOLF 91

www.thecarrickgolf.co.uk

Highlands and Islands

T

his year the eyes of the golfing world have an unprecedented focus on the Scottish Highlands. The Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open (AAMSO) returns to Castle Stuart Golf Links in July for the fourth time in six years, bringing some of the world’s leading golfers to the North of Scotland, along with global media coverage, creating a multi-million pound economic bonanza.

When last staged at Castle Stuart, near Inverness, in 2013, the event, won by Phil Mickelson, reached a worldwide television audience of more than 500 million. The American became the third successive Open Champion (following Darren Clarke in 2011 and Ernie Els in 2012) who played Castle Stuart in the week prior to lifting the famous claret jug.

This year’s AAMSO field will also include World Number 6 Henrik Stenson, 2008 Scottish Open champion Graeme McDowell, and Russell Knox, the Inverness-born winner of last season’s WGC–HSBC Champions in China, who says a victory on his home soil is just as exciting a prospect as making his debut in The Masters.

While the AAMSO is the obvious standout event, there are other highlights in an eventful year for the region’s internationally-renowned links courses.

Nearby Nairn Golf Club will stage the 2016 Men’s Home Internationals competition in August and historic Royal Dornoch welcomes the Northern Open in a year marking the 400th anniversary of golf being played in the town. North of Royal Dornoch, Brora Golf Club celebrates its 125th anniversary.

As well as boasting nearly 50 courses, including ‘hidden gems’ such as Golspie GC, Elgin GC, The

Akernish, Dragon’s Tooth GC, Strathpeffer Spa GC and Wick GC, the Highlands is blessed with breathtaking scenery, a colourful history, ancient castles, monuments and battle sites – including Culloden. There are whisky trails and distilleries, making some of the best known malts, not to mention beautiful beaches, spectacular mountains and iconic attractions like Loch Ness.

It’s a winning formula that attracts visitors from all around the world to enjoy the Highlands’ famous hospitality. In recent years Highland Golf Links (HGL), a partner organisation that includes the three acclaimed courses at Castle Stuart, Royal Dornoch and Nairn, and three leading hotels, has offered golfing breaks and promoted the Highlands in Europe, the US, China and the Middle East.

Demand for ‘Play and Stay’ The promotional work is paying off, with record demand from golfing visitors to the Highlands and HGL’s ‘Play and Stay’ packages currently up 31 per cent on the same time last year.

The attraction of the North of Scotland and its golfing treasures, spectacular scenery and lifestyle make this progressive and modern region an ideal place in which to live and work.

The Highland’s capital of Inverness is one of the fastest growing cities in Europe. Global organisations such as BT, Fujitsu, Diageo, Atos, Capgemini, and LifeScan Scotland (a Johnson & Johnson company) have located and expanded their operations in the area, alongside worldwide names such as Baxters, Walkers and Johnston’s of Elgin.

The Highlands and Islands is also world-leading in marine and offshore wind energy developments,

Worldwide GOLF 92

including Atlantis Resources’ MeyGen in Caithness – the world’s first commercial-scale tidal energy project. The new Inverness Campus, created by economic development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), provides a nationally and internationally significant hub for business, research and education. The co-location of industry and academia, including the University of the Highlands and Islands, promotes valuable collaboration and knowledge transfer. The Campus occupies substantial prime development land connected directly to an already thriving life sciences community.

Alex Paterson, Chief Executive of HIE said: “As well as being a spectacular place to visit and play golf, the Highlands and Islands has world-class learning and working environments, along with excellent training and development opportunities.

“With the help of massive investment, on which HIE is currently leading, superfast broadband is being rolled out to every part of our region which will make it one of the best connected parts of the world.”

Whether visiting the Highlands for business or leisure, new and improved air services will make it easier to reach the gateway of Inverness and potentially make it the first point of entry to Scotland for international visitors.

A new year-round daily service connecting Inverness with Heathrow Airport later this month, and daily flights between Inverness and Amsterdam will offer links to a network of overseas destinations, making the Highlands even more accessible for those seeking to enjoy the region’s spectacular golf courses, beautigful scenery, thriving business ecomomy and famous hospitality.

The Highlands & Islands

Golf in Scotland Hopeman Golf Club Founded in 1909 as a 9-hole course Hopeman Golf Club added a second 9 in 1985 and its setting on the coast of the Moray Firth is simply picture perfect. The signature 12th hole is a gentle 150-yard par-3 with a 100ft drop from tee to green and offers stunning panoramic views.

Honourary President of the club, 1999 Open Champion Paul Lawrie, describes the hole as “one of the best par-3s I have ever played.” A burn meanders from the 6th tee and comes into play on holes 2, 7 and 18.

196 miles

wwww.hopemangc.co.uk

Nairn Golf Club Just a few miles east of Castle Stuart is the wonderful links of Nairn Golf Club, which hosted the Walker Cup in 1999 and the Curtis Cup 2012. In August the club hosts the Men’s Home Internationals competition in August. You can see the shimmering waters of the Moray Firth from every hole, and in addition to the Championship course there is an excellent 9-hole par-29 course which measures 1,634 yards 182 miles

www.nairngolfclub.co.uk

Fortrose and Rosemarkie Golf Club Located on the Chanonry Peninsula on the ‘Black Isle’, Fortrose and Rosemarkie Golf Club was established in 1888, and the course was re-designed by the five-time Open Champion James Braid in 1932. Braid’s remarkable achievement in designing 18 challenging holes within the narrow Chanonry Peninsula is instantly obvious. What Fortrose and Rosemarkie may lack in yardage is more than offset by its small, fast, deceptive greens, strategically placed bunkers, its proximity to the sea on eight of the holes and the dense island of gorse that awaits the wayward shot at numerous others. www.fortrosegolfclub.co.uk 190 miles

Castle Stuart Golf Links The Links at Castle Stuart has garnered worldwide acclaim since it opened in 2009 and work is expected to start this year on the 18-hole Palmer Tribute course at Castle Stuart – Arnold Palmer’s first course design in Scotland. The facility looks set to go from strength to strength as one of the top golfing destinations in Scotland. The gem of the Highlands, Castle Stuart hosts the AAM Scottish Open for the fourth time, having played host in 2011, 2012 and 2013. The Championship links overlooks the Moray Firth with spectacular views of the Kessock Bridge, the Chanonry Lighthouse and the Black Isle from many of the holes. When Phil Mickelson won the Championship in 2013 he said: “I’m always excited about coming to Scotland and particularly to Castle Stuart. I believe that my win at Castle Stuart in 2013 was key to my success the following week in The Open at Muirfield.” The American will be hoping to repeat the Scottish double at Castle Stuart in July before heading south-west to Royal Troon for the 145th Open Championship.

184 miles

www.castlestuartgolf.com

Tickets for the AAM Scottish Open can be purchased from

www.aamscottishopen.com

Worldwide GOLF 93

WORLD CLASS The Highlands of Scotland: Discover the perfect links for golf and business Find out more at www.hie.co.uk

The Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open, Castle Stuart, Inverness

Golf in Scotland

Highlands & Islands Royal Dornoch Situated around 45 miles north of Inverness on the Dornoch Firth is the impressive links of Royal Dornoch.

A tough second-shot course due to the raised greens on many holes (a signature of world renowned designer Donald Ross, who hailed from the town), Royal Dornoch is this year celebrating the 400th anniversary of golf being played in the town by hosting the Northern Open.

220 miles www.royaldornoch.com

Tain Golf Club With sea on one side and the backdrop of the mountains behind, Tain Golf Club offers both beginners and experts alike a remarkable golfing experience.

Another Old Tom Morris design, this links is widely renowned as one of the more picturesque in the region, with praise coming from past Open Champions Bob Charles and Peter Thomson.

Boat of Garten Golf Club Another superb James Braid design, the 18 holes at Boat of Garten wind majestically through birch trees and heather. Just ten minutes from the village of Aviemore, Boat of Garten is set alongside the River Spey in the heart of the Cairngorns National Park and is one of the finest inland courses in the region.

210 miles

www.tain-golfclub.co.uk

155 miles

www.boatgolf.com

Brora Golf Club Not far from Royal Dornoch, the drive from Dornoch to Brora is almost as picturesque as the James Braid-design at the destination.

The opening nine holes hug the North Sea coastline and the lack of protection from sand dunes can make the wind a real menace on blustery days. This year the club celebrates its 125th anniversary and was described by 5-times Open Champion Peter Thomson as the “best traditional links course in the world.�

233 miles www.broragolf.co.uk

Worldwide GOLF 95

M

R8

OST motoring enthusiasts will know that Lamborghini is owed by the Volkswagen Group who also own luxury and performance marques Audi, Bentley, and Buggati. So it comes as no surprise that some of these brands share the odd part or two. But Audi and Lamborghini have been very efficient to say the least.

When the 2009 Audi R8 was uprated to a 5.2 litre V10, a slightly detuned version of the engine in the Lamborghini Gallardo, the comparisons didnt stop there.

The basic chasis, six speed gearbox, four-wheel-drive system and electronics were very similar. In fact, the cabins weren’t far removed from each other. So, when Lamborghini dropped the Gallardo for the new Huracan, Audi looks to have continued with the tradition of replecating the Italian supercar with a more conservative German approach.

Both cars have screaming 602bhp ten-cylinder engines behind the driver’s head, four-wheel-drive to put the power down on to wet roads, and accommodation for two people with a small amount of luggage.

Manufacturer figures show the Audi as slightly faster flat out at 205mph compared to the Lamborghini’s 202mph.

Both will scorch their way from a standstill to 62mph in an identical 3.2 seconds. They use the same seven-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox, although Lamborghini makes it sound raceier calling it doppia frizione rather than S tronic.

Braking is taken care of by expensive carbon ceramic brakes that cost more than the price of a small car.

Both have the same aluminium and carbon-fibre chassis for strength and low weight.

The satellite navigation and audio system in the Huracan is Audi’s MMI spec system but the map screen is half the size of that in the R8.

The Audi also comes with Dynamic Drive on both the standard and Plus models, in which you can switch between Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Individual. In the Plus model the driver can also select between wet, dry and snow settings to tailor the mapping of the engine, transmission and stability control, depending on how confident they are feeling, or what the conditions are like underfoot.

As far as the handling, body control, grip and traction is concerned the new R8 has so much composure everywhere, wet or dry. In fact, it feels like it’s on rails most of the time. On the road, its limits are way beyond what any sane driver would ever expect to reach. The higher performing Plus model still comes in close to $75,000 less than the Lamborghini Huracan, so in the supercar world could the R8 be a bargain at $190,000 ?

ENGINE

0-62 MPH

5.2 Litre V8

3.2

POWER

approx. secs.

602 bhp Worldwide GOLF 96

D R I V I N G RA N G E

Button for Audi drive select

Exhaust button

Button for Performance Modes

In the new R8 there is a button that opens up the exhaust system which, when in sport mode, produces the acoustic crackles and bangs on the overrun.

Worldwide GOLF 97

FOOD

FORTNUM & MASON

LAUNCHES HAMPERLINGS IN UAE Celebrated ‘Afternoon Tea on the Go’ now offered by Dubai store F

ortnum & Mason Dubai has introduced its ‘Afternoon Tea on the Go’ in the form of the Hamperling. A quirky take on Fortnum’s traditional hampers, and a popular outdoor treat, Hamperlings are the most stylish portable picnic money can buy. The takeaway concept is based on Fortnum’s famous Afternoon Tea, packed in a portable, recyclable paper hamper in Fortnum’s signature eau de nil.

There are two different Hamperlings available, each which unfolds easily to reveal beautiful printed placemats and cutlery. Sure to go down a treat, they’ll make for the perfect light bite, whether to take to the beach to enjoy with friends, or sat on a picnic blanket wiling away the hours in a picturesque park with family.

HAMPERLING FOR TWO, AFTERNOON TEA, AED 220 Designed specifically for sharing with a friend or loved one, this Hamperling for two includes two rounds of afternoon tea sandwiches filled with cool cucumber and cream cheese and Fortnum’s delectable smoked salmon, plus two fresh scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam. Those with a sweet tooth will love the three pastries, which can be washed down with a cup of Fortnum’s famed tea or coffee.

HAMPERLING FOR ONE, AFTERNOON TEA, AED 90 Perfect for singletons with a little more time to indulge. It contains one fresh scone, a jar of strawberry jam, a portion of clotted cream and a round of delicious finger sandwiches filled with refreshing cucumber, Fortnum’s smoked salmon or delicious rare roast beef.

Of course, that all-important cup of Fortnum’s tea (or coffee) is included too.

“We’re really excited to present our gourmet Hamperlings, offering a unique experience for those wishing to eWnjoy the Great Outdoors in Dubai and a special Fortnum’s experience on the go or alfresco. With the good weather just around the corner we’re pleased to present a quintessentially British takeaway concept at an affordable price point,” said Alyse Ryder, Fortnum & Mason Country Manager.

HAMPERLINGS CAN BE COLLECTED FROM FORTNUM & MASON IN DOWNTOWN DUBAI OR DELIVERED ON REQUEST.

Worldwide GOLF 98

T RAV E L

STAY AND PLAY IN BAKU Only 2½ hours from Dubai T

HROUGHOUT the majority of the Middle East, the looming summer months spark a certain amount of trepidation among all but the most robust golfers.

Searing temperatures and smothering humidity mean that most of us confine our rounds to either early mornings or late afternoons and evenings. Many of us pack the clubs away altogether and only dust them off when we’re travelling to some far flung international destination.

But did you know that there is a destination reachable in only 2 ½ hours from Dubai where the mercury rarely surpasses 35˚C even at the height of summer and it’s possible to play until the sun sets at around 8.30pm.

Throw into the mix, world-class golf and five-star hotel luxury at affordable prices and it becomes clear that Baku in Azerbaijan is a real hidden gem.

Dreamland Golf Club has partnered with the exquisite Fairmont Baku,Flame Towers, offering not one, but two exclusive deals to stay and play.

Situated close to downtown Baku’s luminous shopping and restaurant scene, the Fairmont offers a fully-equipped health club, spa by ESPA, exquisite dining and rapturous views – it’s one destination non-golfers will be equally keen on.

18-HOLE EXPERIENCE This option offers golfers the chance to play Dreamland Golf Club’s wonderful 18-hole Cynthia Dye-designed championship course. The package includes daily transfers from the Fairmont Flame Towers Baku, golf cart hire, complimentary use of range balls with hire clubs available.

GOLF LESSON EXPERIENCE An introductory experience at Dreamland’s IMG performance studios and state-of-the-art academy for improving golfers who want to continue their tuition whilst travelling. Perfect your game under the watchful eye of Head PGA Professional Michael Sweenie, before taking on the challenge of Azerbaijan’s newest golf offering.

Worldwide GOLF 99

SUMMER 2016 Sunday June 19th will see Baku host the inaugural Formula 1 Grand Prix of Europe. Combine your golf stay with watching what is guaranteed to be an exciting battle on the city’s street circuit.

TRAVEL TIPS Daily flights to Baku with Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) www.azal.az Four flights per week with Fly Dubai www.flydubai.com For stay and play package offers please contact info@dreamlandgolfclub.com or Philip.jones@dreamlandgolfclub.com .

TO P 5 CO U R S E S

‘FAVOURITE FIVE’ with David Horsey 5

Royal County Down Golf Club (Northern Ireland)

3

Le Golf National (near Paris, France)

I played the Walker Cup there and last year I played the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open. It’s a fantastic challenge. All the greens sit front to back and it’s very tricky if you start missing them. Something that I really enjoy doing.

This course is an excellent challenge and one I haven’t been able to cope with that well in my career but I plan to put that right later this year. The track can get quite firm, which makes it a tough task to fire low scores when competing in The Open de France.

1

AGE: 31 FROM: STOCKTON, UK TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 2007 PROFESSIONAL TOUR WINS: 6

4

Abu Dhabi Golf Club (UAE)

2

Golf du Palais Royal (Morocco)

It has a great layout that is always testing for the players. The condition of the course is permanently immaculate.

I’ve won the Hassan II Golf Trophy on this course and had a few good finishes there as well. It’s a brilliant golf course and one I obviously have fond memories of. I like it because it’s very much a ‘second shot’ sort of golf course.

Royal Birkdale Golf Club (Southport, United Kingdom)

I love playing Links golf. I grew up in England playing on these sorts of courses and this is my favourite Links course in the country. It’s extremely challenging because you hardly see any of the other holes from the hole you are playing. It always produces a stern test for The Open Championship competitors.

Worldwide GOLF 100

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