National Club Golfer November 2013 Issue by Sports Publications

NCG Cover November 13 20/09/2013 09:37 Page 3

ALSO INSIDE ROYAL ASHDOWN FOREST • WEST HILL • ALDEBURGH

FREE GOLF! SUBSCRIBE TO NCG AND GET A FREE ROUND

WORTH £85!

20 PAGES OF TRAVEL

TOP 20 WINTER DEALS hen

THE CALL OF

KINTYRE

play w Where to r turns e h the weat nasty...

Connoisseur Clive heads for Machrihanish

RETREAT TO

THE HIGHLANDS Why exclusive Skibo Castle is now more accessible than you think...

FIRST LOOK AT...

SIX NEW RANGES Revealed: Yonex, Mizuno, MD Golf, Wilson Staff, Ping and TaylorMade

ALSO INSIDE

EQUIPMENT INSIGHT

SPECIAL 32-PAGE GUIDE

The tour star with a combo set... and why the driving iron is back

PLAY BETTER

GOLF THIS

WINTER n Specific long and short-game sections n Brilliant drills to practise on the range n What to wear to keep warm and dry

PREVIEW:

WALKER CUP

TOUR TIPS

We look ahead to the 10th USA v Internationals clash

We analyse America’s comprehensive victory

How to drive the ball longer and straighter

PRESIDENTS CUP

WHY GB&I LOST

JASON DUFNER

TAY_10240 GOLF WORLD DPS (420mm x 297mm plus 3mm).indd 1

12/09/2013 17:31

IT HAS SOME THING YOUR IRONS DON’T.

That something is called the Speed Pocket™ – a slot in the sole of the club that enables the face to flex and rebound on impact to dramatically increase ball speed. The result is a fast, soaring launch that makes for a consistently higher and further ball flight and soft, even feel. Your irons don’t have the Speed Pocket,™ but TaylorMade SpeedBlades do. So, what are you waiting for?

TAY_10240 GOLF WORLD DPS (420mm x 297mm plus 3mm).indd 2

12/09/2013 17:31

NCG pp 6 Ed Comm 20/09/2013 12:14 Page 6

ALSO INSIDE ROYAL ASHDOWN FOREST • WEST HILL • ALDEBURGH

FREE GOLF! SUBSCRIBE TO NCG AND GET A FREE ROUND

WORTH £85!

20 PAGES OF TRAVEL

TOP 20 WINTER DEALS

THE CALL OF

KINTYRE

play when Where to turns the weather nasty...

Connoisseur Clive heads for Machrihanish

RETREAT TO

THE HIGHLANDS Why exclusive Skibo Castle is now more accessible than you think...

FIRST LOOK AT...

SIX NEW RANGES Revealed: Yonex, Mizuno, MD Golf, Wilson Staff, Ping and TaylorMade

ALSO INSIDE

EQUIPMENT INSIGHT

SPECIAL 32-PAGE GUIDE

The tour star with a combo set... and why the driving iron is back

PLAY BETTER

GOLF THIS

WINTER n Specific long and short-game sections n Brilliant drills to practise on the range n What to wear to keep warm and dry

PREVIEW:

WALKER CUP

TOUR TIPS

PRESIDENTS CUP

WHY GB&I LOST

JASON DUFNER

We look ahead to the 10th USA v Internationals clash

We analyse America’s comprehensive victory

How to drive the ball longer and straighter

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Dan Murphy DEPUTY EDITOR Mark Townsend STAFF WRITERS James Tompkinson Joe Whitley CONTRIBUTORS Chris Bertram Colin Callander PHOTOGRAPHY Getty Images Thinkstock Joe Whitley CHIEF DESIGNER Andrew Kenworthy DESIGNER & WEBMASTER Daniel Cooper PUBLISHER Tom Irwin SALES EXECUTIVES Neil Braddish Tom Lenton Jamie Miles DIGITAL MARKETING EXECUTIVE Eve Burton FINANCE & OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Will Shucksmith (ACA) ACCOUNTS Emma Abbott CHAIRMAN Peter Burgess PRINT/REPRO Precision Colour Printing, Telford SUBSCRIPTIONS Tel: 0113 289 3979 12 issues including P&P: UK £42; Europe £48; World £58 SPORTS PUBLICATIONS LTD Unit 2, Arena Park, Tarn Lane, Scarcroft, West Yorkshire LS17 9BF, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 113 289 3979 e-mail: editorial@sportspub.co.uk ISSN 1354 2532 Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for omissions and errors. Readers are advised to check pricing and details of availability before making any journeys. All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved. The views expressed in National Club Golfer do not necessarily represent the views of the company or the editor. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publishers assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in any offer, competition or advertising contained within National Club Golfer.

Editor’s comment t can’t be denied that autumn is here and it won’t be long before we are all digging out our bobble hats and base layers. I’m not much of a fan of this time of year, I freely admit. Where John Keats saw a “season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, close bosom-friend of the maturing sun” I more sense the end of evening golf, big competitions and decent greens. All those hopes and dreams for the season are finished and there is little more than the winter foursomes to look forward to. And yet for all that I will be there, in as many layers as is required, scraping hail from the line of my putt and working out how many more clubs than normal I will require to counter the 25mph easterly, the wind-chill factor and the knowledge the green I’m taking aim at is about as firm as a Christmas pudding. Uniquely, I think, in the world of golf, we Brits play for a good chunk of the year in temperatures below 10˚C. And so we, more than any other nation, have benefitted from the revolution in terms of apparel in recent years. Not so long ago, you could keep warm but only at the expense of any kind of freedom of movement or comfort, especially if it was also raining. This makes winter golf a much more appealing proposition, and you can gain even more impetus if you use this time of the year to work on your game. That’s why we’ve compiled a 32-page winter golf guide, in association with Under Armour, packed with hints and tips on what to wear and how you can cope with the worst the British weather can throw at you. In addition, our Winter Fantasy Golf game starts later this month and will give you the chance of winning a holiday to the States, courtesy of Golfbreaks.com.

In short, we’re with you every step of the way, so our advice is to grin NCG is a month ly magazine distri and bear it, make the buted to the go lf clubs of Grea best of the t Britain. Written specific conditions and ally for you, the serious golfe r, we aim to remember how provide an insigh tful lucky we are to be and trustworthy guide to all able to get and play aspects of the game the game all year round. saw some interesting statistics recently about the increasing speed of greens in America. They showed that the average speed on some of the USA’s finest courses has risen from an average of around eight on the Stimpmeter to more like 10. I’m sure you’d see a similar increase on this side of the Atlantic and there is an increasing misapprehension that greens have to be fast to be good. I beg to differ, and would argue that the slower the green is the more slope you can have, and therefore the more interesting it can be – before it becomes unplayable. Fast greens are also much more difficult to maintain – especially in climates like ours – and cutting the grass shorter makes it much more vulnerable. I suggest we concentrate on aiming for good greens rather than fast ones.

TWO HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS ISSUE... P41: LOTS OF NEW GEAR We’ve never seen so much equipment released at this time of year. For all you gear fans, feast your eyes on the latest from Mizuno, Ping, FootJoy, Yonex, MD Golf and Wilson Staff. STR10 FAIRWAY STR10 DRIVER

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO

G DRIVIN BACK IRON IS

F MD GOL STRONG SUPERFIT DRIVER

Now MD Golf enter this re-emerging category...

MARK TOW NSEND

SUPER

How Trap 3 and

NCG VERDI CT MD

Screw back A tungsten weight screw helps promote low spin rates

The matt black finish on this new fairway offers great style and to match the improved performance

A classic head shape with improved aerodynamics and lower spin rates

STR10 IRONS STR10 HYBRID

Hot face This driver is engineered to deliver fast ball speeds

Nice lines The Superfit has a classic head shape that really suits the eye

Top shaft The Superfit comes with a high-spec Mitsubishi Rayon Javln FX shaft

TECHNOLOGY ABLE MOVABLE FACE with a 2014 – comes complete AT LAST – AFFORD after you performance of the club to Mitsubishi Rayon We all know that adjustable if you drivers are readily available to spend have the best part of £300

but until now this exciting to those technology was restricted to with deep pockets. Thanks Golf, that Northern Ireland’s MD has all changed. Their striking new Superstrong now at Superfit driver is available just £129.

The Superfit allows you either adjust the loft by 1.5˚ in 10.5˚ direction – meaning the to as low as model can be tweaked allows an 9˚ or as high as 12˚. This in the expert club fitter to dial exact performance characteristics best you need to achieve the results with your driver. the end It also means that you, consumer, can adjust the

.com | www.nationalclubgolfer 42 NOVEMBER 2013

ball have bought it to suit your on a flight and even the conditions given day. To be able to offer this is a real technology at just £129 coup for MD Golf. And just in case you weren’t your getting enough bang for indeed all buck, the Superfit – and for range Superstrong of the new

high-quality Javln FX shaft and an Ashura Multicompound grip.

LOWDOWN ON THE SUPERFIT SRP: £129 Lofts: 9.5, 10.5 & 12˚ FX Shaft: Mitsubishi Rayon Javln Available: Now

some broken tees

made me what

INTRODUCE ADJUSTABILITY AT AN AFFORD ABLE PRICE

Loft conversion You can change the loft by +/1.5˚ to get the ultimate performance

6 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

P146: OUR MAN’S SUPERSTITIONS We know lots of regular readers turn to Mark Townsend’s column first but if you haven’t already done so, I’m certain you’ll enjoy learning about what it takes to make him tick in the medal.

Made from 403 stainless steel and finished in black PVD, the new irons are not only highly forgiving but look great Thanks to a tungsten weight in the sole, this hybrid is fast off the face and extremely forgiving

SUPERSTRONG STR10 RANGE INTRODUCING MD GOLF’S images you can possible If you didn’t realise it was and irons to get a new set of woods paying that look this good without top dollar then think again. MD We’ve been reviewing now and Golf’s kit for a decade as time and again it has performed is much well as equipment that more expensive. looked But never before has it quite as good as the all-new

STR10 range. The but it is see speak for themselves out that the well worth us pointing come driver, fairway and hybrid equipped with the Mitsubishi the Rayon Javln FX shaft while steel irons also have a standard are option of Rifles. The grips

Ashura Multicompounds. package It all adds up to quite a that simply must be considered.

PRICES AND DETAILS Superstrong STR10 driver SRP: £109 Superstrong STR10 fairway SRP: £79 Superstrong STR10 hybrid SRP: £79 Superstrong STR10 irons SRP: £299 (4-P, steel) www.mdgolf.co.uk

a peek As recently as 20 years ago, player, into the bag of any decent would amateur or professional, maybe a reveal a trusty 1 iron – and are hearing 2 as well. Right now, we tour pros of increasing numbers of the 4 is ditching the 3 iron while also dwindling in popularity. Long irons have steadily been also, for a replaced by hybrids (and different reason, by increasing many – if numbers of wedges). For perfect not most – players that makes sense. a few But there have always been got on of us who have never quite the case with hybrids and it remains a club to that if you are looking for a offer control off the tee and long iron penetrating flight then the still has a role to play. golf If you play a lot of seaside flight into then you will relish its flat those firm the wind and you can use advantage links fairways to maximum to hit shots that roll forever. Titleist We have seen the likes of is called (712U), Ping (their prototpye Utility Rapture) and Callaway (X in this Prototype) bring out products MP H-4 category recently while the long line a in Fli-Hi is merely the latest of Mizubo driving irons. in with Now MD Golf have joined in the STR10 Hybrid Iron. Available three lofts, and a choice of graphite or steel shaft, if you can’t get on with hybrids a for yearn and powerful alternative then have a look at one of these. The lowdown: Lofts: 16, 21˚ Shafts: Javln FX/Rifle SRP: £69.99/£59.99

18 &

.com | NOVEMBER www.nationalclubgolfer

2013 43

NE of my banker questions in any probing interview is to player’s superstitions ask for a . Having just pumped them on whether they prefer links to parkland (answer: yes) it helps to lighten the mood and offers up the opportunity to unsheathe a layer of their personality. Typical answer: Never play with a No 3 on my Pro V1 (to avoid three putting, obviously) and always use white tees. I then smile thinly and go on to ask favourite colour for their and, probably, dream fourball. Recently one (female) golfer replied: “If I don’t play well in the first round with a white hat I will change it to a black one; the same with shoes, if I play well I will stick with them. If I use a certain toilet and then play well I will use that before the second round. “Lining the ball up; if I am putting will keep it that well I way, if not I will turn it round.” I suspect there was more to come usual thin smile but my had disappeared. I raised my eyebrows in a look that signalled doubt over her sanity. Quietly I wanted roughly the right to hug her. Like height – and they I too have these ‘Player A’ never shatter. A small imbecilic, irrational part of me used thoughts. to die a little bit inside when another of my My lucky toilet favourite pegs only survived one wild lash There’s nothing with the chief. strange about This has also having a restored favourite trap to visit ahead removes the temptation some dignity as it of an important medal. Here I to reverse the fill the boot on can quieten my car the 1st tee at somewhere and mind and relax ahead of the four-hour where they kindly nice grind and battle (and foolishly) my inner demons. with leave a bag full of free tees. Or, more likely, obsess about my tee time while Oh, and I will reading a collection never, chipping notes of ever use a full-length tee for any sort on my phone, which brings of par-3 about an even always use a splintered, approach, preferring to longer spell at the crease. My lucky toilet has wooden effort over a short period helped bring about that, of time, will leave a 0.1 increase in each my trouser pocket. a hole in of my last five medals. My lucky tee My lucky hats One of my groundbreak Away from the ing changes in golf course I despise couple of months the past baseball caps. I never wore has been the use one even in the of a pink castle for all drivers. late 80s, despite George I have three of Michael and Bros these little fellas, I look after leading thousands down them with my this sorry path, life and can often be found and I’m far too old to consider circumnavigating wearing one now. a tee box rescuing my inflexible Yet, with a club friend long after in my hand, I playing partners my convince myself that I can’t have moved on. play The beauty of for practical reasons golf without one. Partly these is there are no nagging due to a mop concerns over of hair (the whether you have only other option being an Alice successfully inserted a small band) though mainly as I believe piece of wood into the turf at it helps me to focus. A horse has blinkers, I like to don a bright, 146 NOVEMBER

2013 | www.nationalc lubgolfer.com

I am today

Tee party These don’t get a look in

repellent cap. Forget anchored putting or ‘rolling back the ball’, I’d like to think that 2014 will signal the return of the beanie. My lucky marker

Never a pound coin (too thick), never a 50p (too big) and nothing copper (too invisible, turning a possible birdie putt into having pick up). And never, ever, a roulette-type to Always a 10p, chip. tails up. Or, if I’m feeling quirky and a bit showy, an American nickel. My lucky balls Every remaining ball in the car boot, in among the free tees, tells its own story. A small club logo will quickly relive another horror show and will never see the light of day again. And, on the rare occasion that 36 points is breached, the same ball will be retired to stud knowing that its best days are now gone. My lucky undies Don’t be ridiculous. Of course I …blue, stripes. white

• Mark Townsend is NCG’s deputy editor. He now plays off 8 after a slow start and middle to the year

Foremost Golf Dolphin 20/09/2013 11:01 Page 1

NCG pp 8-9 MOTM 19/09/2013 11:33 Page 8

ON THE TEE Your essential guide to the world of golf â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including competitions, quick tips, interviews and new gear

8 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp 8-9 MOTM 19/09/2013 11:33 Page 9

MOMENT OF THE MONTH N the eve of September’s Walker Cup, the tone struck by the opposing captains could barely have been more different. On one hand, America’s Jim Holtgrieve (who works in PR) seem to suggest the biennial competition was a sporting strand of the ‘Special Relationship’ between the countries separated by the Atlantic Ocean. Great Britain & Ireland’s Nigel Edwards, on the other hand, stated very starkly that he was in America to win. There is no right and wrong here; both points of view have merit. But the Welshman’s prematch statement sounded a little hollow, possibly even misguided, following the comprehensive 17-9 victory by America. The hosts resumed 8-4 ahead on the second day, with GB&I requiring a Medinah-like turnaround to retain the cup. But the morning foursomes were shared two each, leaving Holtgrieve’s side needing just three-and-a half points from 10 singles matches. The match was won when Nathan Smith held off Nathan Kimsey in match five. The thrashing at classy National Golf Links on Long Island took America on to win No.35 against eight by GB&I and the prospect of continental Europe being invited to join the party was quickly mooted following the climax. It seemed premature for the question to be posed; GB&I did, after all, win the 2011 match – albeit probably helped by inclement weather. And with the US benefitting from a much larger pool of players to choose from, there will always be a possibility of one-sided affairs such as this year’s. The talent available to GB&I will always fluctuate more than it does to America. Yet in recent times, GB&I have prospered, winning six matches to the USA’s seven. If America wins another five matches, and in equally comprehensive fashion, there would be good reason to ponder the European question (which would not be without its complications). Until then, GB&I must find a way to play as forcefully as their pre-match talk. n More Walker Cup analysis on p22.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 9

NCG pp 10-11 WRBP RAF 19/09/2013 11:34 Page 10

ON THE TEE

WE’D RATHER BE PLAYING...

ROYAL ASHDOWN FOREST The Old at this 36-hole club is one of England’s finest inland courses

The par 5 10th on the Old Course at Royal Ashdown Forest

10 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

| GRASS ROOTS

NCG pp 10-11 WRBP RAF 19/09/2013 11:34 Page 11

oyal Ashdown Forest is as eccentric as it is traditional. The first thing to notice as one enters the car park, hard by the East Sussex village of Forest Row, is that there are no reserved spaces for anyone. The captain and other club luminaries must park where they can.

THE HISTORY Given Royal Status by the Duke of Cambridge, who galloped on horseback to the tee before hitting his first ever golf shot on the property, Ashdown was founded in 1888 on part of what is now known as the Old Course. The neighbouring West Course was originally devised as a ninehole ladies’ course. The club has produced many notable golfers, none more so than Abe Mitchell who stands on top of the Ryder Cup and the 1936 Open winner, Alf Padgham. THE COURSE The Old Course is longer than the West, and no place for the novice, although neither have any bunkers. Not that that makes play any easier as there are ditches, streams, thick heather and deep rough to greedily gobble up any wayward tee shots. Legendary golf writer Bernard Darwin said that players only realise there are no bunkers after they have completed their rounds. But before then there is natural drama with blind tee shots, elevated tees providing stunning views, raised greens and some fearful run offs all amid a sense of members having great fun playing their singles and foursomes – for the Old Course is a twoball course on all but rare occasions.

CONTACT DETAILS For furthe

r informatio n or to book a tee time, visit royalashd own.co.uk or call 01342 822 018

THE DEAL The West Course welcomes fourballs and threeballs and is a scaled-down version of the Old, although just as challenging. Prices range from £25 to £85, although for £87 players can play both courses and have a twocourse lunch in the club dining room. The West is currently offering a ‘four play for the price of three’ package.You can play the Old for £65 on weekdays (£80 a day) and £80 at weekends.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 11

NCG pp 12-13 Change Your Game 19/09/2013 11:37 Page 12

ON THE TEE

| GEAR |

THIS WILL CHANGE YOUR GAME

WILSON STAFF FG TOUR M3 The classic brand get seriously modern with their first range of adjustable woods

W ALL-NNSETAFF

WILSO

RANGE

12 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

HOW MULTI FIT WORKS This innovative weighting system offers the option of using a 3, 7 or 11g weight in each wood to maximise clubhead speed. The 3gram weight, made from aluminium, is for those golfers who would benefit from ‘SuperLight’ weighting. The 7g weight, made of steel, is designed for the majority of golfers using Right Light technology, for the perfect balance of feel and increased distance. The 11g weight, also steel, offers ‘Traditional’ weighting for players preferring a heavier swing weight. A Multi Fit System pouch is included with every wood and contains a wrench, three weights and an instructional booklet. A personal fitting is recommended.

NCG pp 12-13 Change Your Game 19/09/2013 11:37 Page 13

ADJUSTABLE

WOODS TO SUIT MORE GOLFERS Mark Townsend on Wilson Staff’s return to the big time

Key facts and figures FG TOUR M3 IRONS SRP: £599 4-P, steel; £699 4-P, graphite FG TOUR M3 DRIVER An initial loft of 9.5˚ but can be adjusted from 8.5˚ to 11.5˚ in half degree increments SRP: £249 FG TOUR M3 FAIRWAY WOODS Three head options, 13.5˚, 15˚ and 17˚– lofts can be adjusted from 12.5˚ to 19˚ SRP: £179 FG TOUR M3 HYBRIDS Four head options, 17˚, 19˚, 21˚ and 23˚, with three loft settings and the same lofts at 2˚ upright lie angles SRP: £149 For more information go to www.wilsonstaff.com

The younger ones among you might not be overly familiar with Wilson Staff but that should all change in 2014. For the first time the manufacturer, which can boast more Major wins with its irons (61) than any other, is introducing adjustable woods. They will sit alongside a new family of FG Tour irons. Staff players Padraig Harrington and Paul Lawrie have had a hand in designing the new range, which is certainly worthy of Wilson’s illustrious past. Both the irons and woods come in a stylish matt black finish. A new Multi Fit System enables loft and weight to be adjusted on the driver, fairway woods and hybrids. Each wood has six adjustable hosel settings and three interchangeable sole weights which will maximise your ball speed while producing the right launch angle and spin rate (see the box opposite for how the weights work). “As more tour players switch to lighter equipment, Wilson Staff R&D has shown that virtually all players, including low handicappers and tour staff, will increase both distance and control by using the Right Light Technology,” said global director of R&D Michael Vrska. I particularly love the fairway wood which looks incredible, clean and stylish. Once fitted correctly, it produced some very impressive results and new-found distance. The irons look great and perform equally well, so much so that those of us who have long dispensed with a 4 iron, might now be tempted to restore it. A progressive cavity design, it boasts superb feel and covers the twin bases of workability and forgiveness. Make no mistake, these irons are very easy to hit and feel sublime. The message is clear – Wilson Staff are back.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 13

NCG pp 14-15 Captured On Film 19/09/2013 11:38 Page 14

ON THE TEE

| ARCHIVE |

CAPTURED ON FILM

JULY 22, 1984 Road Hole does for Watson as he seeks hat-trick of Open titles

14 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp 14-15 Captured On Film 19/09/2013 11:38 Page 15

THE BACKGROUND The end of the 1970s and the beginning of the new decade witnessed a changing of the guard at the top of the game. Arnold Palmer was no longer a threat in the Majors and it was increasingly rare to find Gary Player, Lee Trevino and Jack Nicklaus in the shake-up come Sunday afternoon. If their glorious era was inevitably going to be impossible to replace, the men who succeeded them at the top were hardly without glamour and excitement. Tom Watson, Seve Ballesteros, Bernhard Langer, Greg Norman and Nick Faldo were to prove stellar successors, augmented by fine Americans such as Lanny Wadkins, Ben Crenshaw, Raymond Floyd and Fred Couples. But when the field gathered for the 1984 Open, all eyes were on one of these men; Watson. The American was seeking his third Open in a row.

THE ACTION The Old Course produced a stellar leadboard, Watson being pursued by Langer, Faldo, Norman, Couples and Wadkins as he held the 54-hole lead alongside Ian Baker-Finch (in his first Major ). The Aussie wilted on Sunday with a 79, though, and the rest of the big names fell away to leave a duel between Watson and Ballesteros. The Road Hole provided the pivotal moment. The pair were tied when the Spaniard made a four, but Watson’s approach scurried over the green, crossed the famous road and came to rest close to the wall – as you can see. From there, Watson unsurprisingly could only make bogey. His adversary then made an iconic birdie on 18 for a twoshot victory which does not reflect just how tight the afternoon was. Indeed, Ballesteros’ reaction when holing his 15-foot putt on 18 is a better gauge as to the tension in the air that afternoon.

THE QUOTE “This was the happiest moment of my whole sporting life. My moment of glory, my most fantastic shot. So much so that picture of me gesturing in triumph is now the logo of my companies.” – Seve Ballesteros.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 15

NCG pp 17 Presidents Cup 19/09/2013 11:39 Page 17

ON THE TEE

| TOUR |

FIVE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

THE PRESIDENTS CUP Mark Townsend picks out the key themes ahead of the 10th edition

PRESIDENTS CUP DETAILS October 3–6, Muirfield Village This is the 10th series of matches – the United States currently lead 7-1. The format is foursomes on Thursday, fourballs on Friday, both on Saturday and then the final-day singles. For the third straight matches Fred Couples will captain the home side while, for the first time, Nick Price will lead the International team.

WOODS AND DUFNER?

WHO IS JORDAN SPIETH?

NO FURYK THIS TIME

SEVEN ROOKIES

This will be Tiger Woods’ eighth appearance in the matches and his record currently stands at W20 H1 L14. Which might not sound amazing but is far superior to his Ryder Cup efforts (W13 H3 L17). Two years ago he needed a captain’s pick, this time he finished in top spot and significantly clear of rookie Brandt Snedeker. Another rookie, Jason Dufner, has been hotly tipped to partner the World No 1 in what could be a fascinating pairing. In 2009 Woods went 5-0 when paired with Steve Stricker but they might not be trusted after three straight defeats at Medinah. Otherwise we can expect to see Mickelson and Keegan Bradley, who was unlucky to miss out in 2011, reunited after their Ryder Cup heroics.

In January Jordan Spieth was ranked 809th in the world. After his 62 at the Deutsche Bank the new World No 28 had become the first player since Woods in 1996 to go from no status to the Tour Championship in a single season. At the John Deere Classic he became the first teenager in more than 80 years to win on Tour after posting three straight 65s and also earned a start at the Open Championship a few days later. His very popular pick came at the expense of such players as Jim Furyk, Dustin Johnson and Bubba Watson. The 20-year-old is very capable of shooting low scores, he has carded a 66 or better 11 times this season. After a recent practice round Phil Mickelson texted Couples: "Dude, you've got to pick this guy."

In 2011 Jim Furyk won all five matches, one of only four players to record such a feat in the competition’s history. In the words of Captain Couples Furyk ‘basically really won the Presidents Cup for us’. But Mr 59 will not be part of the team despite seven previous appearances, 15 straight team competions, having won the Memorial at the course and finishing second at the PGA behind Dufner, one of four straight top 10s. Given the choice Couples wanted both Stricker and Furyk to play their way onto the team, he only got half his wish. Couples said: “I texted Jimmy. I told him that he wasn't on the team through a text; that I would talk to him, just because I just couldn't handle it to be honest.”

Over half of Nick Price’s team have not played in the competition before with Oosthuizen, Grace, Matsuyama, DeLaet, Sterne and picks Leishman and de Jonge lining up. Price ignored the likes of Choi, Ishikawa, Yang, Ogilvy, Allenby and Baddeley as well as Tim Clark who was the closest to missing out. Going against the renowned matchplay slayer was his lack of length, which Price sees as a requirement. The captain also prefers a left-to-right ball flight which helped the cases of Leishman and de Jonge. The latter leads the PGA Tour for total birdies. Matsuyama could capture plenty of headlines; the Japanese 20-year-old played in the last three Majors of 2013 with a worst finish of 19th.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 17

NCG pp 18 OTT Quick Tip 19/09/2013 11:40 Page 18

ON THE TEE

Analysis by Gary Alliss, pro at Ladbrook Park. The ‘King of the Swing’ has twice captained the PGA Cup side. w: ladbrookparkgolf.co.uk

| QUICK TIP |

WORK ON A STRONGER LEFT-HAND GRIP LIKE

JASON DUFNER Learn from the PGA champion to add yards and accuracy to your driving

ONE STRAIGHT LINE Jason does a lot of things well, such as maintaining his spine angle. But what I want to point out is the positioning of his arms and hands and their relationship to the clubface. His left arm is straight and his wrists have released their angles – i.e. they are straight – while his right elbow remains a little flexed. It will be straight in a moment ensuring maximum power is applied to the ball.

I LOVE A STRONGER GRIP Look at Jason’s quite strong (hook) grip, coupled with how squarely he holds the clubface to his target line. It demands great strength in the forearms. I encourage a stronger grip with palms facing each other, both hands turned more to the right.

18 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

TRY THIS EASY DRILL Work on a wide, low followthrough. Practise by lining up three tees in a straight line to your target with gaps of three inches. The first tee is the ball – sweep all the pegs away.

OPEN YOUR EYES

TO LUMINE LUMINE MediterrĂĄnea Beach & Golf Community has made an instant impression on golf travellers thanks to its attractive proposition of 45-holes of championship golf, 27 of which are designed by Greg Norman, abundance of first-class leisure facilities, wealth of accommodation options, sumptuous local cuisine and traditional Spanish hospitality. Located just one hour south of Barcelona on Spainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunning Costa Dorada, this golfing haven is within easy reach of two international airports and promises visitors a truly authentic experience. www.lumine.com

NCG pp 20 Ryder Cup Countdown 19/09/2013 11:44 Page 20

ON THE TEE

| TOUR |

RYDER CUP

COUNTDOWN Gleneagles, Scotland September 26 to 28

EUROPE European Points List 1 Joost Luiten 408,309 2 Thomas Bjorn 372,622 3 Gregory Bourdy 360,320 4 MA Jimenez 285,140 5 Craig Lee 260,495 6 Soren Kjeldsen 183,657 7 Ross Fisher 175,975 8 Damien McGrane 153,489 9 Gregory Havret 146,000 10 Victor Dubuisson 137,720 World Points List 1 Henrik Stenson 76.84 2 Joost Luiten 30.48 3 Thomas Bjorn 30.00 4 Gregory Bourdy 24.00 5 Daan Huizing 24.00 6 Sergio Garcia 22.06 7 MA Jimenez 21.00 8 Luke Donald 18.89 9 Craig Lee 18.00 10 Andrea Pavan 15.60

USA Points List 1 Phil Mickelson 2,172 2 Jason Dufner 1,883 3 Jim Furyk 921 4 Tiger Woods 677 5 Brandt Snedeker 552 6 Zach Johnson 497 7 Hunter Mahan 483 8 Matt Kuchar 462 9 Steve Stricker 433 10 Dustin Johnson 414 n Players in bold occupy qualifying positions

RYDER CUP COUNTDOWN

HOW THE TEAMS ARE SELECTED

SOUTHPORT, 1933 GB&I see off star-studded American team on the Lancashire links The American team which arrived on these shores in 1933 was on paper one of the most decorated that has ever been assembled. All but two of the side won two Majors or more in their career and only Ed Dudley failed to claim one of the game’s biggest prizes. Yet Great Britain & Ireland were undaunted and their spirited showing was illustrated right from the start, with Charles

Whitcombe and Percy Alliss halving with the powerful duo of Gene Sarazen, then the reigning Open champion, and Walter Hagen, who was also acting as captain. A tight affair throughout, the match came down to Denny Shute – another Open champion but an often forgotten one – against Syd Easterbrook. The American needed just a half for his side to retain the cup and and boarded the last tee

20 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

with the match all square. Having safely found the green in regulation, he charged his putt past, missed the four-footer coming back and duly allowed his opponent the match. It gave GB&I the narrowest of victories by a final score of 6.5 to 5.5 points. The 1933 Cup at Southport & Ainsdale was also notable for being the final one to be attended by Samuel Ryder, who died in 1936.

EUROPE n Qualification period is now underway and ends on August 31 2014 n Top four on European Points List qualify n Top five on World Points list (not otherwise qualified) qualify n Paul McGinley selects three wild cards USA n Qualification period includes 2013 Majors and begins in proper on January 1, ending after the PGA in August n Top 9 on list qualify n Tom Watson selects three wild MONTHS cards

TO GO

NCG Balls Survey 20/09/2013 13:49 Page 21

WE WANT TO

KNOW WHICH BALLS YOU USE

AND WHY

WE’VE GO £1,000-W T OR OF BALLS TH TO GIVE AWA Y

Tell us now at nationalclubgolfer.com and you could win A YEAR’S SUPPLY OF PREMIUM BALLS to suit your game PLUS 10 runners-up each win a dozen balls

GO TO WWW.NATIONALCLUBGOLFER.COM IT IS FREE TO ENTER AND WILL TAKE YOU LESS THAN FIVE MINUTES

NCG pp 22 Walker Cup Review 19/09/2013 11:45 Page 22

ON THE TEE

| GRASS ROOTS

WALKER CUP 2013: WHAT WENT WRONG? Mark Townsend analyses GB&I’s heavy defeat in America

HOSTS DOMINATED THE SINGLES THE last six transatlantic clashes had gone Europe or Great Britain and Ireland’s way, this time it was America’s turn as they trounced GB&I 17-9 at the National Golf Links of America. At the venue of the first ever Walker Cup, the hosts won 6 ½ of the first day’s eight singles and then seven of the 10 singles on Day Two.

WINNING AWAY IS HARD

US PREPARED AS A TEAM

SO DO WE NEED EUROPE?

...NEXT UP FOR TEAM GB&I?

It must be emphasised that winning away in the Walker Cup is tough – in the history of the competition we have only managed it twice. The nature of the defeat was a shock but things could have been closer. On the first day five of six single losses reached the 17th and a positive was the shading of the two sets of foursomes. The Americans were stronger and adapted to the course and windy conditions better. There is some sort of myth that given any sort of wind any American will quickly crumble. But these are brilliant players and possible future Major champions – ie they won’t. According to captain Nigel Edwards we ‘didn’t do the simple things well. We didn't hole out well enough and we missed greens with wedges’.

The Americans prepared for this match like never before. The one thing that impressed the US skipper Jim Holtgrieve the most was the players’ attention to detail in terms of yardages and the different winds. They also prepared as a team. At Royal Aberdeen they arrived in Scotland as a collection of brilliant individuals but never came together. This time they did. The home side enjoyed a site visit in August as well as a gettogether in December. Our teams have been holding get-togethers since 1995 when the tide of the matches began to turn, this time, due to time constraints and an ever-growing amateur circuit, we didn’t and there was no pre-event visit. The Americans had two more days on the course. In Scotland we got four days.

After such a battering, talk quickly arises of whether European input is required. It isn’t. The last 10 matches have now been shared five apiece. We will go into the matches as underdogs most of the time but we’ve shown we are more than capable of competing. One problem is the lack of media and public interest particularly when playing away. This was an unexpectedly onesided contest but, come the Sunday, we only saw three putts on the television coverage before the result had been decided. Three days’ coverage would help raise the profile and the introduction of fourballs would add another level of excitement. The last six US Open champions have all played in the Walker Cup – it would be nice to see them making their way in the amateur game.

Neil Raymond, Kevin Phelan and Max Orrin turned pro straight after the matches. Callum Shinkwin, Jordan Smith, Nathan Kimsey and Garrick Porteous will stay as amateurs but will attend European Tour Qualifying School this year. Which leaves US Amateur champion Matt Fitzpatrick (our leading scorer with three wins from four), Gavin Moynihan and Rhys Pugh as hopefully still eligible for the 2015 matches at Royal Lytham & St Annes. As for the captaincy, the precedent is for each skipper to be in charge for two matches and then step aside. If he were asked by the R&A Edwards would say an unequivocal yes. The Welshman has been involved with the cup since 2001, it is not unthinkable that he could continue for another two years.

22 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp 24 OTT Di Meets…Dave Jones 20/09/2013 12:26 Page 24

ON THE TEE

INTERVIEW |

How long have you been playing golf and who introduced you to the game? My first game of golf was at Middlesbrough Municipal Golf Club and I must have been about 10 I suppose. My dad had given up cricket because of a dodgy back and needed an alternative pursuit. My abiding memory – beyond his increasingly furrowed brow as impatient members gathered behind us – is of the rascals from the housing estate running onto the fairway to steal your ball and then sell it back to you. How is your golf at the moment and what is your handicap? My game is on hold – I was playing more than ever until my son came along two years ago and the longer I’ve left it the more intimidating the 1st tee is becoming! I got down to 14, which is decent for someone who can’t chip or putt. Where do you play? I was a member at Hampton Court Palace which was about 40 minutes from my home in south west London (as near as it gets) and loved the openness of the Royal Park. A friend from New Zealand came over to play St Andrews and Gleneagles but when he went home he was more excited about the deer on the greens at Hampton!

DI MEETS... DAVID JONES

“I AM THE PERFECT EXAMPLE OF SOMEONE WHO DRIVES FOR SHOW, AND PUTTS FOR DOUGH!” TV presenter and Lynx ambassador Di Dougherty chats to Sky Sports presenter David Jones

You have started a new show Saturday Night Football on Sky Sports with keen golfer Jamie Redknapp, how often do you play golf with him? We haven’t yet! I’ve been invited but I’ve told him I want to play a bit first to remember how to swing! Is he good? How competitive? He’s practically a professional,

given that he actually plays every day. And he’s got two kids! How does he manage that? And he only lives five minutes from his course. (Note to self – move out of London). What are the strengths to your game? I played a lot of cricket in my

Aphrodite Hills in Cyprus

24 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

youth so ball striking always came pretty naturally to me – especially off the tee. In fact, I am the perfect example of ‘drive for show, putt for dough’... Do you prefer inland or seaside courses and which is your favourite course? I will play anywhere – you always find a couple of nice holes on any course. I’ve holidayed a couple of times with the family at Aphrodite Hills in Cyprus – I know the sunshine helps, but it’s beautiful. What is your best round? My first-ever medal at Hampton Court. I’d had a blazing row with my then girlfriend the night before and barely slept but I turned up with little hope and shot 82 off 18. Killed my handicap.

DI TEAMS UP WITH LYNX “I became the ambassador for Lynx last year and the brand is growing from strength to strength. We all remember Ernie Els and Fred Couples winning Majors with Lynx equipment, the company are building on that heritage and are keen to remember their history in today’s modern market. The company also recognises the importance of the women’s Tour and is very keen to support female British golfers. Design, style and performance are key for Lynx and their innovative ideas are clear to see in their new ranges.” lynxgolf.co.uk

Bring the heat.

Introducing the all-new Boom Boom 2 from Lynx. The blend of gases inside the bi-titanium head creates the ultimate in striking

power, proved to consistently hit further and straighter than any other driver. * Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let them use it for anything else.

To find out more or become a stockist, visit us at lynxgolf.co.uk or call: 01932 862 474

*Boom-Boom 2 tested as 9 degree stiff by RoboGolf 11/09/2012 hitting 288.6 metres; on average 6.6 metres further than nearest competitor club. Dispersion rates equalled the lowest of other brands at 3.3.

NCG pp 26 Jon Finn How To 19/09/2013 11:52 Page 26

ON THE TEE

| QUICK TIP |

HOW TO...

ABOUT PR E

CONQUER YOUR DISASTER HOLE

-SHOT Jon Finn is the inventor Pre-Shot tr of the aining prog ramme, a training ap unique proach whi ch helps go shoot lower lfers scores. He developed his role as it in Golf Psycho logy consul to the PGA tant over the pa st nine year Pre-Shot tr s. aining can be accessed through iP hone apps , physical products an d worksho ps. Visit pre-sh ot.co.uk

Tense times

How do you get past holes like this?

Jon Finn continues his series designed to help you cope with the kind of challenging situations we all face on the course HE 14th at Keighley in West Yorkshire, a short par 3, was always my personal disaster hole. Every time I teed the ball up I knew that I was just about to ruin my card! All golfers have a hole – or two! – like this. What makes it so difficult? No matter how bad your performances have been on this hole to date you can improve. With planning and preparation you can turn your stroke-one hole into one of your favourites.

USE YOUR FAVOURITE CLUBS Stroke 1 holes are difficult because we have to play a shot we are not 100 per cent confident about. Confidence comes through practice and there will always be clubs in our bags

that we have more confidence with than others. To maximise your chances of a low score try to stick with clubs and shots that you have the most confidence in. It might sound common sense but in my experience it isn’t common practice; give yourself the THE NEUROSCIENCE BEHIND MY TIPS Your brain is not set-in-stone as neuroscientists once believed it to be. You can re-wire it through focused practice which leads to neuroplasticity. Currently your brain is wired to perceive your stroke-1 hole as a huge threat. By practising the tips in this article you will re-wire the synaptic connections in your brain. This will give your orbital frontal lobe a better chance of overpowering your amygdala and the negative emotions that it creates.

26 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

best chance of shooting low scores on difficult holes by using clubs and playing shots that you are confident with. LOSE THE DON’TS Many golfers simply accept that they will drop shots on their stroke 1 hole. The little voice in their head begins to say “Here we go again, I hate this hole. Whatever you do don’t hit the ball into the trees on the left…” Talking to yourself in this way will not help you to overcome the challenges presented by a difficult hole. Do not accept this negative internal voice. Plan out what you are going to say to yourself on the tee. Your brain will always default to negative self-talk. You have to be aware of this and plan out some

useful things to say to yourself when you notice the negative selftalk occurring. For example saying “Focus on the spot on the green where you want the ball to land” is much more useful than saying “Don’t hit the ball into the water hazard on the left”. REHEARSE THE SHOTS To give yourself the best chances of turning your stroke 1 hole into one of your favourites practise the above points. Practice is the only true way to change your current unhelpful behaviours. Go to the range and practise playing your stroke 1 hole in your mind’s eye. Practise saying helpful things to yourself as you practise.

NCG pp 27 Lingmerth 19/09/2013 11:52 Page 27

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO...

DAVID LINGMERTH Joe Whitley speaks to the Swedish PGA Tour rookie who is enjoying a superb season so far

Your rookie season has been excellent, with two runner-up finishes and nearly $2m in earnings. What’s your secret? There is no secret, just a lot of hard work and selfbelief. I’m working on getting a little more consistent so that I can contend more often. What was it like to be in the final group on Sunday at The Players Championship? A lot of fun and a great learning experience since I didn’t know how I was going to be able to respond being in that situation for the first time. What was it like playing with Sergio Garcia? Did you learn much from him? He was great to play with. He had a good attitude all day and was a true professional. We got along great and tried to push each other.

What was the atmosphere like on 17 when he went into the water? Did you say anything to him? The crowds got a little out of hand in my opinion. Not great to hear them cheer for someone’s misfortune. I didn’t say anything about it until after the round. Did he mention anything about his feud with Tiger Woods to you? No. What do you think happened? It was just unfortunate. I can’t see Tiger doing something like that on purpose. Your PGA Tour card is now secure for another year. Is that a weight off your shoulders? It is nice not having to worry about that, but I still have a long way to go to reach my goals. I want to climb the world ranking to get in to the Majors. That is next on the list. Do you think you will ever play on the European Tour? I think I will play mostly on the PGA Tour, but I would love to come and play some of the bigger events on the European tour as well. Hopefully my play over here will allow me to do so.

What are your goals for the remainder of the season? I want to get a win, of course, I want to play at least two majors, and I want to get to the Tour Championship. Most importantly I need to focus on sticking to the process and hopefully things will fall into place. Jonas Blixt says you take practice rounds very seriously. Is it true you play them in silence? He probably exaggerated a bit, but I like to go about my business to get ready. You’re an ambassador for Ian Poulter’s clothing line, IJP Design. Do you admire his style? Of course! His style is unique and stands out which is fun and good for golf. It’s not just about looking good, the technical features of his clothing line are just as important as the style aspect. What do you make of his famous Ryder Cup performances? He’s been tremendous, obviously. I was watching it all last year. It was unbelievable. Who do you cheer for in the Ryder Cup? Do you consider yourself European or, like Carl Pettersson, American? Who would you play for given the chance? EUROPE, EUROPE, EUROPE, EUROPE!

David is an ambassador for IJP Design. Ian Poulter launched the brand in 2007 after being unable to find clothes he wanted to wear on the golf course that looked good and performed well. Go to www.ijpdesign.com

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 27

THE NEW FACE OF SPIN

Cleveland Golf, the leaders in wedge innovation, introduce the new 588 RTX Rotex Wedges: • 16% larger grooves for increased contact and friction at impact • Enhanced laser-milling for improved durability and surface roughness • Unique directionally-optimized Rotex face pattern for maximum spin

588 RTX Blade

588 RTX CB Cavity Back

www.clevelandgolf.com

NCG pp 29 London & Home Counties 19/09/2013 11:53 Page 29

ON THE TEE

CAPITAL ADVENTURES

| GRASS ROOTS

10 great courses you can easily access on a day out from London

WELWYN G

ARDEN CIT Founded in Y 1923, this is the hom club of Eur e opean Tour legend Nic Faldo. It is k convenient ly located within 10 m iles of the M25 and cl to the A1. ose Although no t the longes layout, the t narrow fair ways and small gree ns provide s a over what stern test should be considered of the best one courses ar ound.

KINGSWOOD

SILVERMERE

This mature course was designed in the 1920’s by five-time Open champion James Braid. It has been subjected to extensive redesign under the guidance of Howard Swann and now measures just over 6,900 yards. The par-3s and par-5s are outstanding here and form the signature holes.

Situated just five minutes from the M25 and A3, Silvermere is one of Surrey’s most easily accessible courses. Opened for play in 1976, the Neil Coles and Brian Hugget design has hosted qualifying for the European Tour and has some of the south-east’s finest holes.

MOOR PARK Set in 300 acres of woodland and fine Hertfordshire parkland, Moor Park features two championship courses, the High and the West. Designed by Harry Colt to blend into the grounds of the estate, the course is minutes from London and can even be accessed from Moor Park underground station on the Metropolitan Line.

PINE RIDGE This all-encompassing golf centre in Surrey opened in 1993 and its unique combination of golf and other leisure facilities make it an excellent venue. Measuring 6,458 yards from the Championship tees, the course weaves through a mature pine forest over sandy soil, which provides fast-draining turf and makes ball striking a real delight.

WEALD OF KENT This beautifully maintained parkland is set in rolling Kent countryside and offers views of the surrounding area. Just a short drive from both Maidstone and Ashford, the course contains many elevations, lakes and other hazards along with perfectly manicured greens and fairways.

crafted Tudor Park Country Club to take advantage of the natural features of an ancestral deer park. The course features long, narrow fairways bordered by beautiful, mature pine trees and undulating greens, offering fantastic views.

CROHAM HURST Croham Hurst was founded in 1911 and its scenic parkland course was designed by Fred Hawtree and James Braid. Although within striking distance of central London in Croydon, the course still benefits from outstanding natural beauty and a feeling of tranquility. Built on chalk, it al drains superbly.

DONNINGTON VALLEY

CANTERBURY

TUDOR PARK

Nestled in a delightful woodland setting, Canterbury is a hidden inland gem in the South East corner of England. Designed by Harry Colt, arguably the greatest golf course architect in history, and measuring 6,272 yards, it is considered to be one of the best inland courses in the area.

In 1988, Donald Steel skillfully

Rebuilt and redesigned between 1998 and 2000, Donnington Valley boasts a challenging 18-hole 6,353-yard, par-71 course set in rolling countryside. Water features prominently on the 15th, 16th and 17th holes. The Grade II listed clubhouse offers magnificent views and is a great place for post-round relaxation.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 29

NCG pp 30-31 Fantasy Golf 20/09/2013 12:07 Page 30

ON THE TEE

| COMPETITION |

WINTER FANTASY GOLF 2013/14

Registration is open – and it’s FREE to play in association with

ENTER NOW AT 30 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp 30-31 Fantasy Golf 20/09/2013 12:07 Page 31

HE best fantasy golf game in the business returns – and the prizes are better than ever. Use your golfing knowledge to win a fantastic holiday to America – provided by Golfbreaks.com – and prove that you know more than your friends by creating your own Mini League. Simply pick one player from each of 10 pools. The better your players perform, the more points you score. All teams will receive an allocation of three transfers for

You could win a week in the sun at PGA National in Florida! each week of the season and transfers will be allocated every Tuesday. They can be made up until midnight on Thursday so you will have the benefit of seeing the first-round scores and reacting accordingly.

You can also nominate a captain who will score double points. The season starts with the BMW Masters in October and there are counting events every week throughout the winter until the WGC Match Play at the end of February. Best of all, playing the game is ABSOLUTELY FREE. For full details of how to enter your team, as well as further information on how to play, just visit our website: www.nationalclubgolfer.com

THE CATEGORIES There will be fabulous play-andstay prizes for the winners, courtesy of Golfbreaks.com

OVERALL WINNER Seven nights’ B&B and five rounds at PGA National in Florida

RUNNER-UP and THIRD Short-break holidays to brilliant golfing destinations

MONTHLY PRIZES Special overnight UK golf breaks for the monthly top scorers See the website for full prize details

WWW.NATIONALCLUBGOLFER.COM www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 31

NCG pp 32 Letters 19/09/2013 11:54 Page 32

ON THE TEE

LETTERS I watched a large majority of the Open Championship at Muirfield as it is the only tournament that is covered in full by the BBC, and as I saw Phil Mickelson trickle his putt down the slope on the 18th green, I thought that it would be the last event I would get to see this year. So what a wonderful and pleasant surprise it was to find all four days of this year’s Ricoh Women’s British Open at St Andrews covered by the BBC. I initially tuned in because I had read about Inbee Park’s

attempt to win four majors, but even as her bid faded away on the second and third days, I still found myself watching the tournament until its conclusion. The point really is to say thank you to the BBC for allowing me to

Letters Unit 2, Arena Park, Tarn Lane Scarcroft, West Yorkshire LS17 9BF or email: letters@sportspub.co.uk

experience another full tournament. High quality golf played by the world’s top players available for all to see. I hope it continues for many years to come. Mark Jones, via email

JUST WALK QUICKER Dear Sir, For many years there has been a problem, with slow play in the professional game. In the past there has been little action taken against offending players. Although they may get put on the clock, this usually seems to have very little actual effect. Where is the problem of taking a shot and walking briskly to the position ready for your next one? C. Baker, via email

in the history of the game ever scored 36 on either the front or back nine comprising of just nine fours? This puzzle is driving me mad, as there seems to be nobody who can give me the answer! Steven Shivas, Glasgow

Editor’s note: Thanks for your letter Stephen. This is indeed a tricky question which had us delving through the archives in search of an answer. Unfortunately we are still none the wiser so cannot produce the answer you want. Hopefully there will be some readers who can help!

DUFNER’S PUTTING

THE WORST PLAYING PARTNERS

PGA champion Jason Dufner has publicly stated that he does not like putting. How refreshing it is, in this era of 'positive thinking', to hear a player ADMIT that he has a weakness.

Dear Sir, A quick addition to Mark Townsend’s ‘The worst type of playing partner’ blog. What about the guy who you are paired with in a tournament who insists on driving the golf cart and then proceeds to find every single bump and rut on the course? Better still, you know

Michael Campbell, via email

32 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

WRITE IN... AND WIN A PING SCOTTSDALE TR PUTTER The writer of the star letter each month will be able to choose a putter from the Ping Scottsdale TR range. TR stands for True Roll which is provided by PING's innovative variable-depth groove technology. For more details on Ping's outstanding range of products go to www.ping.com

TWO NINE-HOLE OMISSIONS

SCORING A LEVEL PAR ROUND IN FOURS Dear Sir, I am writing to your magazine with a question that nobody seems to answer including Peter Alliss! In the history of holg has any player, either professional or amateur, ever scored a round of 72 which consists of 18 fours? Also, has any golfer

| GRASS ROOTS

SEND YOUR LETTERS TO:

LETTER OF THE MONTH: BBC COVERED THE RICOH WELL Dear Sir, Sometimes I feel that people are far too quick to step in and criticise the media when things don’t go well, but rarely do you hear people commenting on a ‘job well done’ by media outlets covering sport. I have to admit that before this year I had never really watched much women’s golf, partly due to a distinctly passive interest and also due to the fact that I don’t have access to Sky Sports - which greatly limits the amount of golf I can watch regardless of whether it is men or women playing.

this guy will be the one who loses your only drink on a scorching hot day after circling round the green! David Dost, via NCG website

Dear Sir, Thanks for the article on 9 hole golf clubs, it was very interesting. However, you forgot Maldon (founded 1891) and Harwich & Dovercourt (founded 1906) which are both good tracks. Derek Woodrow, via email Editor’s note: Thanks for the feedback, Derek. We saw this feature as the beginning of a discussion rather than the final word. The two courses you mention both merit consideration.

MORE NINE-HOLERS NEEDED IN THE UK Dear Sir, Numerous ideas have been tried over recent years to bring new converts to golf and increase membership and green fee revenue, but most have resulted in failure. Clubs in the USA are now encouraging players to compete over 9 holes and are dividing courses accordingly, with great success. Peter Hughes, via email

t r a p g n i k a t e h t t o n s ’ t I

g n i n n i w e h t It’s year after year after year after year after year after year

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

*SPORTS MARKETING SURVEYS INC & GOLF DATATECH RETAIL AUDITS

At Srixon, we’re all about the winning. So much so that winning golfers have made us the UK’s top-selling 2-piece ball brand for the last six years in a row*. If the ball you’re currently using isn’t a Srixon, then quite simply you’ve yet to find the winning choice for you. Go to www.srixon.co.uk today to find the right ball for your game!

_0313R_SRX00021 2 Piece National Club Golfer Ad AW.indd 1

1/29/13 4:39 PM

NCG pp 34 Columnist CC 19/09/2013 11:56 Page 34

COLIN CALLANDER Do not despair – our Walker Cup team promises to be very strong in two years T was the great Willie Park who once said that “a man who can putt is a match for anyone” and that remains the same today as it was back in the latter half of the 19th century when the Scot was winning his four Open titles. The key to winning at golf at the top level invariably comes down to which player holes the most putts and there was no better illustration of that fact than at the recent Walker Cup match at the National Golf Links of America where a strong GB&I team had crossed the Atlantic with high hopes of winning the contest for just the third time on US soil. They ended up being trounced by 17-9 in what was the most lop-sided contest since the 1997 match at Quaker Ridge. I did not go to this year’s match but watching on TV it was apparent the home side putted much better than the visitors and GB&I captain, Nigel Edwards, admitted as much after a dispiriting defeat that meant that, for the first time in 454 days, the quartet of Walker Cup, Ryder Cup, Solheim Cup and Curtis Cup trophies no longer all reside on this side of the Atlantic. “We did not putt well enough,” he said. “It simply came down to that.” The 2013 Walker Cup turned out to be a massive anti-climax for GB&I supporters who had previously celebrated six successive victories in the four major transatlantic team contests but subsequent calls for the GB&I team to be extended to include the leading continental players were surely a massive overreaction and certainly paid no heed to the fact that arriving at this year’s venue the teams had each won six of the last 12 contests and that less than 20 points out of a total of 292 separated the two teams during that period. The Walker Cup is now more competitive that it has ever been since its inception back in 1922 although it is clear that winning in America does seem more problematic for our male amateurs than it is for their counterparts in the professional ranks. Famously, we did win by a single point at Peachtree in 1989 and then by 15-9 at Ocean Forest in 2001 but, interspersed between those rare victories, we were thrashed at Quaker Ridge, narrowly missed out at Chicago in 2005 and then received another drubbing at Merion in 2009. I have no solution for how we can improve

Putting woe GB&I’s Max Orrin can’t watch

34 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

‘Fitzpatrick and Moynihan are still likely to be amateurs’ our Walker Cup record in the US – other than to putt better – but I do have high hopes the fixture will remain competitive moving forwards to Royal Lytham & St Annes in 2015 and beyond. The good news for GB&I is that both US Amateur champion Matt Fitzpatrick and Gavin Moynihan are likely still to be amateurs in 2015 and they will bring plenty of experience to a side which once again is likely to be made up almost exclusively of teenagers and players in their early 20s. The USGA’s decision to stipulate that two mid-amateurs must be included in this year’s team was vindicated when both 45-year-old Todd Smith and his 35-year-old team-mate Nathan Smith won their games in the second singles series but GB&I officials are unlikely to follow suit and not just because they would struggle to find suitable candidates from that elder age group.

I have watched a lot of amateur golf over the past few years and in the aftermath of the recent reversal at Southampton, New York, I am happy to report there is little likelihood this one reversal will signal a return to the dark days before the late 1980s when the Walker Cup was sometime labelled as the Walkover Cup. It is far too early to single out individual players who may represent GB&I at Lytham two years hence but among the current crop of juniors the likes of England’s Marco Penge, Bradley Moore, Ben Amor, Ashton Turner and Jack Singh Brar, Scotland’s Ewan Scott, Bradley Neil, Ewen Ferguson, Connor Syme and Robert MacIntyre, Ireland’s Robin Dawson, Welshman Tim Harry, and others, the selectors have at their disposal a group of youngsters who hit the ball beautifully and who have no idea what the late, great golf writer, Peter Dobreiner, meant when he said “half of golf is fun; the other half is putting.” Personally, I’m looking forward to the match already.

• Colin Callander is a former editor of Golf Monthly and this year celebrates his 30th anniversary working as a golf writer

TAKE THE CHALLENGE TODAY!

Sam Torrance OBE John Lettersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Brand Ambasador

www.johnletters.com

Take the challenge at our authorised stockist and custom specialist Direct Golf UK. To find your nearest store visit www.direct-golf.co.uk/stores John Letters Golf Ltd, 9 Albany Place, North Street, St Andrews, Fife, Scotland, KY16 9HH. The Home of Golf

For full Terms and Conditions on Challenge 47 please visit www.johnletters.com/challenge47

NCG pp 36-39 Best of British 19/09/2013 12:59 Page 36

The majority of golf companies now make their products abroad. But some buck the trend, and we celebrate...

NCG pp 36-39 Best of British 19/09/2013 12:59 Page 37

THE BEST OF

James Tompkinson speaks to Glenbrae, Stewart Golf, Golfstream and Greenhill to find out how it is possible to be a success story while manufacturing at home

NCG pp 36-39 Best of British 19/09/2013 13:00 Page 38

HE British inventor James Dyson once said: “Manufacturing is more than just about putting parts together.” For the British golf manufacturing industry, however, it might appear as if those words have become less relevant. The vast majority of companies now either bring component parts into the UK and assemble them here, or simply ship entire products into the country having built them overseas. Yet there are still a few brands who buck the trend by making entire products in the UK. Highquality knitwear brand Glenbrae and motorised trolley companies Golfstream, Greenhill and Stewart all make goods in Britain and are extremely proud of their heritage. “Being able to work in the UK rather than in an anonymous factory in the Far East gives a nicer character to the products that we make and to the company generally,” said Stewart Golf’s chief executive officer Mark Stewart. However, it is not just the lure of being different that keeps these companies in the UK. There are tangible benefits to not being based overseas. “The big thing about our British heritage is that we have incredible reliability. If we do come across a problem with one of our trolleys then we can deal with it very quickly,” said Golfstream’s managing director Derek Richford. “We are very much closer to our customers and their demands. People are really now beginning to get the idea that having a British made product really does make a difference.” Greenhill sales manager Andy Bradley agrees. “The major advantages are that we can keep tight control on our quality and be very flexible to the market needs,” he said. “As we manufacture everything for ourselves we know the quality of the components are correct. It is not expensive to hold stock, so we can deliver quality products on very short lead-times.” The value of being based in Britain is also clear to Glenbrae’s general manager Andrew Jones. ”Not only are we using British manufacturers and British

traditional skills, we’re able to service it from this country with quick turnaround,” he said. “It makes for a very cost-effective way of merchandising.” Most manufacturing work previously conducted in Britain has been shipped out to the Far East because production costs are

38 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

cheaper. However, as the global economy changes and the costs of exporting work out to countries such as China rise, the benefits of manufacturing golf equipment in Britain are becoming clearer. “With the changing economic global climate, there is huge pressure on exchange rates, there

are greater salary expectations in foreign countries and the cost of manufacturing is getting closer between the UK and the markets overseas,” said Jones. “When you’re in somewhere like China, the time zones are difficult, communication is difficult, and it costs a lot of money to go over there,” said Stewart. “So if you’re not doing a lot of volume then you can very quickly lose all the benefit if you have one or two problems a year.” “Prices in China are increasing. They are demanding much higher minimal order quantities,” says Richford. “Businesses prerecession may have been ordering 1000 units per month and were quite happy. Then the recession hits and they’re down to 500 units per month, but China are still saying that you’ve still got to order 2000 products at a time. “When that was two months’ worth then that is ok, but now that’s four months’ worth and you can’t see the horizon. If you then have an order on the way and an order in the pot then that’s eight months’ worth and the cash flow involved is phenomenal.” All four are optimistic about the future of golf manufacturing in Britain and believe that we could be at the beginning of an era where more work starts to return to these shores. “We have got, as a nation, extremely good engineering skills,” said Stewart. “I believe companies like ours, who have continued to invest in new machinery and new products, will be at the forefront of the British manufacturing fortunes,” said Bradley. “I would like to hope that there is a resurgence for British manufacturing, because Britain has a huge heritage in technology and manufacturing. The marketplace is demanding quality and I think there are more opportunities for British manufacturing to grow. “However, we can’t kid ourselves. We have to ensure we have the technology, and that we have a new breed of young, talented people. There is no shortcut, we have to invest. I think there are great opportunities for British manufacturing if we focus on our strengths – quality, technology and innovation.”

NCG pp 36-39 Best of British 19/09/2013 13:00 Page 39

| STEWART GOLF Location: Gloucestershire Number of employees: 11 Contact: stewartgolf.co.uk | 0333 800 1818 About: Stewart Golf specialise in producing highquality, premium motorised trolleys. They launched their first product, the X1, in 2003 and are based in a factory in the Cotswolds. In 2008 they produced a second trolley, the F1 Lithium, which was awarded a Design Excellence Award from the British Business Council. All parts of their electronic trolleys are designed and made in-house, with an emphasis placed on quality. Stewart products retail at the high end of the market, priced between £999 and £1499.

GLENBRAE } Location: Yorkshire Number of employees: 250 Contact: glenbraegolf.com | 01484 843732 About: Glenbrae produce high performance knitwear, and the company was born out of a Yorkshire manufacturing firm which has produced textiles for over 100 years. All the products are made, dyed and packaged in Britain and contain the highest quality Merino lambs wool. Once produced, the jumpers are hand finished using needle and thread. All Glenbrae products are seamless, and the jumpers hold their shape, grip on the forearms and don’t interfere with the swing.

FIVE MORE

GREAT BRITISH

PRODUCTS

NORTHCROFT GOLF Produce accessories that are designed to help those who struggle with back problems. Their products help with teeing up the ball, picking up golf balls and repairing pitch marks.

GROOVEFIX Make premium accessories including pitch repairers, sharpeners, ball markers and putting aids. They are the official accessories supplier to the British Par-3 Championships.

| GOLFSTREAM Location: Kent Number of employees: 7 Contact: www.golfstream.co.uk | 01843 594213 About : Golfstream specialise in producing electric golf trolleys and also sell spare parts for many of the leading electric trolley brands. They have two trolley lines – the Evolution and Revolution. The trolleys are made on site and all the component parts on Golfstream trolleys come from the UK. The founders have over 50 years’ experience in the electric trolley industry. The Revolution trolley features a patented one-click folding mechanism that make it one of the easiest trolleys to use on the market.

GREENHILL } Location: Lancashire Number of employees: 30 Contact: www.greenhillgolf.co.uk | 0845 634 7290 About: Greenhill was founded in 1991 has been making Pull and Electric trolleys since 1994. They were the original designer of the popular Z-shaped trolley folding mechanism which is now seen on many brands. All aspects of their trolleys are produced in house, including the moulding of plastic parts and the production of clutches, axles and gearbox components. Greenhill also produce golf bags and a range of other trolley accessories including umbrellas, rain covers and battery bags.

THE GREENSTICK An extendable pitch mark repairer and ball retriever which does not require a player to bend their back to use. The product is perfect for players with back issues.

ELECTROKART Produce single seat golf buggies which dismantle to store in the boot of a car. Their products are high performance and offer complete stability, power and performance.

GRASSHOPPER GOLF Designs and produces single seat golf buggies from their factory in the East Midlands. All products are hand built and their buggies can cover 32 miles on one charge.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 39

Golfstream-2013-ad-v1k:Layout 1

11/6/13

15:08

Page 1

Reliability. Strength. Style.

NEW! Evolution Digital

Revolution

Tour Cart Bag

Designed, manufactured and assembled 100% in Britain, when you own a Golfstream trolley you are supporting genuine British engineering excellence. By using components like supremely high-quality Electromech electronics, aircraft grade aluminium, marine grade stainless steel and Caddy Cell lithium batteries, Golfstream sets the standard for on-course performance and reliability.

golfstream.co.uk 01843 594213

Scan to visit our website on your mobile/tablet

NCG pp 41 Equipment Lead 19/09/2013 12:32 Page 41

EQUIPMENT Comprehensive and objective gear tests | The latest releases | Competitions | Fashion | Accessories

DOMINANT ALL-ROUNDER

The UK's most popular two-piece ball has been re-designed. Srixon's AD333 has dominated the mid-range sector of the market due to its all-round high performance at a low price. The 2014 version is the sixth generation of the model and has been designed to offer lots of feel as well as distance and spin, making it one of the best all-ability balls money can buy. New features include revolutionary ‘spin skin’ technology, which improves traction on clubface grooves for more revolutions, and a large energetic core that transfers power efficiently for more carry. A new dimple pattern makes the ball strong and stable in the wind, too, and produces a penetrating flight. The cover retains durability thanks to an innovative blend. Srixon say it performs best in the hands of those with swing speeds over 80mph.

New dimples The new AD333 performs better in the wind

Spin skin More traction between the grooves and the ball

SRIXON AD333 2014 SRP: £28.99 FEATURES AT A GLANCE - Two-piece construction - New improved speed dimple pattern - Best for swing speeds over 80mph - Durable yet soft cover IN SHOPS: Now

STR10 DRIVER

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO

STR10 FAIRWAY

MD GOLF

DRIVING IRON IS BACK

SUPERSTRONG SUPERFIT DRIVER Screw back A tungsten weight screw helps promote low spin rates

Now MD Golf enter this re-emerging category...

NCG VERD ICT

MD INTRO ADJUSTABILIDUCE AN AFFOR TY AT DABLE PRICE

The matt black finish on this new fairway offers great style and to match the improved performance

A classic head shape with improved aerodynamics and lower spin rates

STR10 HYBRID

Loft conversion You can change the loft by +/1.5˚ to get the ultimate performance

The Superfit allows you to adjust the loft by 1.5˚ in either direction – meaning the 10.5˚ model can be tweaked to as low as 9˚ or as high as 12˚. This allows an expert club fitter to dial in the exact performance characteristics you need to achieve the best results with your driver. It also means that you, the end consumer, can adjust the

42 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

Made from 403 stainless steel and finished in black PVD, the new irons are not only highly forgiving but look great

Top shaft The Superfit comes with a high-spec Mitsubishi Rayon Javln FX shaft Thanks to a tungsten weight in the sole, this hybrid is fast off the face and extremely forgiving

AT LAST – AFFORDABLE MOVABLE FACE TECHNOLOGY We all know that adjustable drivers are readily available if you have the best part of £300 to spend but until now this exciting technology was restricted to those with deep pockets. Thanks to Northern Ireland’s MD Golf, that has all changed. Their striking new Superstrong Superfit driver is available now at just £129.

STR10 IRONS

Hot face This driver is engineered to deliver fast ball speeds

Nice lines The Superfit has a classic head shape that really suits the eye

performance of the club after you have bought it to suit your ball flight and even the conditions on a given day. To be able to offer this technology at just £129 is a real coup for MD Golf. And just in case you weren’t getting enough bang for your buck, the Superfit – and indeed all of the new Superstrong range for

2014 – comes complete with a high-quality Mitsubishi Rayon Javln FX shaft and an Ashura Multicompound grip.

LOWDOWN ON THE SUPERFIT SRP: £129 Lofts: 9.5, 10.5 & 12˚ Shaft: Mitsubishi Rayon Javln FX Available: Now

INTRODUCING MD GOLF’S SUPERSTRONG STR10 RANGE If you didn’t realise it was possible to get a new set of woods and irons that look this good without paying top dollar then think again. We’ve been reviewing MD Golf’s kit for a decade now and time and again it has performed as well as equipment that is much more expensive. But never before has it looked quite as good as the all-new

STR10 range. The images you can see speak for themselves but it is well worth us pointing out that the driver, fairway and hybrid come equipped with the Mitsubishi Rayon Javln FX shaft while the irons also have a standard steel option of Rifles. The grips are Ashura Multicompounds. It all adds up to quite a package that simply must be considered.

PRICES AND DETAILS Superstrong STR10 driver SRP: £109 Superstrong STR10 fairway SRP: £79 Superstrong STR10 hybrid SRP: £79 Superstrong STR10 irons SRP: £299 (4-P, steel) www.mdgolf.co.uk

As recently as 20 years ago, a peek into the bag of any decent player, amateur or professional, would reveal a trusty 1 iron – and maybe a 2 as well. Right now, we are hearing of increasing numbers of tour pros ditching the 3 iron while the 4 is also dwindling in popularity. Long irons have steadily been replaced by hybrids (and also, for a different reason, by increasing numbers of wedges). For many – if not most – players that makes perfect sense. But there have always been a few of us who have never quite got on with hybrids and it remains the case that if you are looking for a club to offer control off the tee and a penetrating flight then the long iron still has a role to play. If you play a lot of seaside golf then you will relish its flat flight into the wind and you can use those firm links fairways to maximum advantage to hit shots that roll forever. We have seen the likes of Titleist (712U), Ping (their prototpye is called Rapture) and Callaway (X Utility Prototype) bring out products in this category recently while the MP H-4 Fli-Hi is merely the latest in a long line of Mizubo driving irons. Now MD Golf have joined in with the STR10 Hybrid Iron. Available in three lofts, and a choice of graphite or steel shaft, if you can’t get on with hybrids and yearn for a powerful alternative then have a look at one of these. The lowdown: Lofts: 16, 18 & 21˚ Shafts: Javln FX/Rifle SRP: £69.99/£59.99

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 43

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO MD GOLF’S SUPERFIT DRIVER

ooking at the new being convinced it is superior to S55s it is hard to their existing offering. And since think it wasn’t all the S56 is an iron that has won that long ago when global appreciation, in a Ping simply weren’t a category where only subtle consideration for the better progression will ever be player looking for a traditional, accepted, a three-year-plus set of irons. interlude begins Performance, THE FIRST VERDICT to make logical gamesense. Ping By Dan Murphy, 3hcp improvement expect the I played the S56 irons for over a year before switching to the i20s. qualities and transition for I loved the short irons but, at the forgiveness, existing S56 time, my confidence had taken a hit certainly; sleek users to be an and I was struggling with the longer and compact easy one. In irons – I knew I wasn’t getting them heads, hardly. engineering to the top of their flight. The i20s are much more forgiving and the This is terms, Ping top line reassuringly substantial. actually the fifth made the face in My feeling when I first set an S55 incarnation of a the long irons long iron behind the ball was that it range that began thinner and looked sleek but not as intimidating back in 2002 with and I was amazed to watch the moved the flight, which seemed every bit as the original weight they had high as with my i20s. ferrule-less S59. saved lower and The feel is solid and the short With each further and irons’ flight is pleasingly quick. It’s succession, on back. This early days, but I’m very impressed. looks alone, Ping makes them a have made a better and better little bit more lively and also job. And the culmination is the creates a different sound and new S55 that has been a long feel. Another key difference is time in the pipeline for anyone that the weight in the back of hanging on before making their the head is now made of a next investment. polymer. This dampens the feel, Ping take pride in never helps to get the weight deeper releasing new product without and leads to a higher launch.

FROM MOST

FUNCTIONAL TO

MOST WANTED Dan Murphy on how Ping irons became beautiful – culminating in the new S55s

OWN

LOWD r1 : Novembe Available Ping CFS, Stock shafts: KBS Tour Gold, Dynamic (steel), per iron ) SRP: £115 £137 (graphite

44 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

FIRST LOOK: PING’S NEW S55 IRON AIMED AT PLAYERS

THE WEIGHTING GAME

Yonex’s EZone XP range is based on compelling logic, says Dan Murphy

ven someone with my level of knowledge of the laws of physics can appreciate the principle that a heavier head will generate faster speeds. But we also know that a lighter club is easier to swing more efficiently. And that means there is a trade off. With their new EZone XP range, Yonex

a 20g tungsten powder integrated within the rubber near the top. All this means that the swing balance and total club weight are the same – but more of the weight is in the head. In practice, you don’t notice the difference in terms of what it feels like to swing but you do get the benefit of the additional weight.

have come up with a very clever and logically compelling solution to this eternal problem. In the case of the driver they have added 13.5g to the head and engineered a shaft that is lighter and has a balance point much nearer the butt (grip end) than is normally the case. A lighter than usual grip is counterbalanced with

EZONE XP PRICES SRPs: Driver £249; fairway wood £179; hybrid £149; irons 4-S £799 graphite, £649 steel Available: now www.yonex.co.uk

SIX REASONS WHY THE XP DRIVER IMPRESSES FAST OFF THE FACE

Thanks to the weighting system, this really feels like a responsive driver. It’s quick off the face and helps you get the ball flying. And Yonex drivers have always been among the easiest to use on the market.

Carbon composite This expensive technology helps redistribute weight where it is most needed

2 Hot looks The XP really stands out from the crowd with its blend of red and black colour scheme and smooth aesthetics

IT’S MULTI-MATERIAL

As you can see from this Xray view above, the XP is a multi-material driver featuring a carbon composite crown and a chunky tungsten screw in the back. Beacuse the crown saves so much weight, it allows for advanced levels of weight redistribution to optimise performance in all areas.

LOFT ADJUSTABILITY

COMPOSITE CROWN

You get a total range of 3˚ of adjustability in the XP driver. So in the 9˚ model you can go as far down as 7.5˚ and up to 10.5. Do bear in mind that decreasing the loft will open the face and increasing loft will close it.

Yonex are leaders in carbon graphite technology and this super-light structure reduces crown weight, allowing for the tungsten weight to be positioned in the rear of the sole and further weight to be placed inside the head. Composite crowns are much more expensive to manufacture than one-piece heads.

ALSO IN THE XP RANGE Weighty matters An 8g tungsten screw in the back of the head helps move the CG further back and deeper.

HIGHLY FORGIVING

ADVANCED SHAFT

There is a difference of opinion in the engineering world at the moment as to whether as much weight as possible should be positioned low and back or low and forward. Yonex go for the former and that certainly makes the XP a forgiving driver on mishits.

This shaft is made by Yonex, who have specialist expertise in the area, and counterbalanced to move the balance point nearer the butt (grip end) of the club than would normally be the case. It matches the head perfectly.

Matching fairways, hybrids and irons are out now

Dial it in You can move the loft +/- 1.5˚ to get the exact flight that you are looking for

Pure quality Benefit from the superior performance and consistency of some of the highestquality shafts in the business

The EZone XP fairway features much of the same technology as the driver – the head weight is increased by 8.5g and this is counterbalanced by the design of the shaft and the grip to give you increased clubhead energy and increased distances.

The EZone XP hybrid looks great and this time the head weight is increased by 6g. The lofts can be adjusted +/- 1.5˚ in both the hybrids and fairways, just as in the driver, so you can dial in your preferred flight and distance for optimum gapping.

The same counterbalancing technology applies in the EZone XP irons, which have a double undercut cavity. This results in a super-thin sole that makes the face hotter for more distance. A lower CG allows for higher trajectory despite stronger lofts.

THE #1 SHAFT

IN GOLF 30 YEARS OF TOUR SUCCESS

REVEALED: THE HOT NEW YONEX EZONE XP RANGE

NCG pp 42-43 UGT MD Golf 19/09/2013 11:59 Page 42

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO

MD GOLF

SUPERSTRONG SUPERFIT DRIVER Screw back A tungsten weight screw helps promote low spin rates

NCG VE

MD INT RDICT ADJUST RODUCE A AN AFF BILITY AT ORDAB PRICE LE

Hot face This driver is engineered to deliver fast ball speeds

Nice lines The Superfit has a classic head shape that really suits the eye

Top shaft The Superfit comes with a high-spec Mitsubishi Rayon Javln FX shaft

Loft conversion You can change the loft by +/1.5˚ to get the ultimate performance

42 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

2014 – comes complete with a high-quality Mitsubishi Rayon Javln FX shaft and an Ashura Multicompound grip.

LOWDOWN ON THE SUPERFIT SRP: £129 Lofts: 9.5, 10.5 & 12˚ Shaft: Mitsubishi Rayon Javln FX Available: Now

NCG pp 42-43 UGT MD Golf 19/09/2013 11:59 Page 43

STR10 DRIVER

STR10 FAIRWAY

DRIVING IRON IS BACK

Now MD Golf enter this re-emerging category...

The matt black finish on this new fairway offers great style and to match the improved performance

A classic head shape with improved aerodynamics and lower spin rates

STR10 HYBRID

STR10 IRONS

PRICES AND DETAILS Superstrong STR10 driver SRP: £109 Superstrong STR10 fairway SRP: £79 Superstrong STR10 hybrid SRP: £79 Superstrong STR10 irons SRP: £299 (4-P, steel) www.mdgolf.co.uk

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 43

NCG pp 44 Equipment Ping S55 19/09/2013 12:00 Page 44

FROM MOST

FUNCTIONAL TO

MOST WANTED Dan Murphy on how Ping irons became beautiful – culminating in the new S55s

WN LOWDOovember 1

le: N , Availab ing CFS hafts: P s r u o T Stock S Gold, KB el), te Dynamic (s n o 15 per ir SRP: £1 raphite) £137 (g

44 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

Foremost Golf Shopping 20/09/2013 11:00 Page 1

NCG pp 46-47 Yonex 19/09/2013 12:05 Page 46

THE WEIGHTING GAME

Yonex’s EZone XP range is based on compelling logic, says Dan Murphy

EZONE XP PRICES SRPs: Driver £249; fairway wood £179; hybrid £149; irons 4-S £799 graphite, £649 steel Available: now www.yonex.co.uk

Carbon composite This expensive technology helps redistribute weight where it is most needed

Hot looks The XP really stands out from the crowd with its blend of red and black colour scheme and smooth aesthetics

Weighty matters An 8g tungsten screw in the back of the head helps move the CG further back and deeper.

Dial it in You can move the loft +/- 1.5˚ to get the exact flight that you are looking for

Pure quality Benefit from the superior performance and consistency of some of the highestquality shafts in the business

NCG pp 46-47 Yonex 19/09/2013 12:06 Page 47

SIX REASONS WHY THE XP DRIVER IMPRESSES FAST OFF THE FACE

IT’S MULTI-MATERIAL

LOFT ADJUSTABILITY

COMPOSITE CROWN

ALSO IN THE XP RANGE

HIGHLY FORGIVING

ADVANCED SHAFT

Matching fairways, hybrids and irons are out now

THE #1 SHAFT

IN GOLF 30 YEARS OF TOUR SUCCESS

NCG pp 48-49 Footjoy, Speedblade 19/09/2013 12:11 Page 48

NEW FOOTJOY WATERPROOFS

CATCH THE EYE OOTJOY have made a real statement with the introduction of their new range of outerwear for the winter. While the starting point for any waterproof has to be based on performance the new DryJoys Tour XP jacket immediately attracts attention with its bold design. Where previously FootJoy waterproofs have been understated

(and you can still go that way if you prefer), there are some really strong colour options, as you can see here. Alongside the flagship XP suit that can be relied on in all conditions is the lightweight Hydrolite and the Softshell, which is sure to be an essential addition to your winter wardrobe. Indeed, increasingly the savvy golfer is turning to these versatile and warm tops as their go-to

FURTHER DETAILS To find out more about these new FJ garments as well as the rest of their 2014 range of apparel, visit footjoy.co.uk

winter jackets. They are described as ‘water-resistant’ rather than waterproof but in practice you can rely on them to deal with anything up to sustained heavy rain and you will be comfortable in all temperatures.

DRYJOYS TOUR XP

FJ HYDROLITE

n 100 per cent waterproof and offers breathable protection n 3-layer bonded fabric construction reduces weight and improves mobility n Innovative FJ four-way stretch shell with an Xtreme DWR finish and 20,000mm waterproof barrier guarantee ultimate protection in the toughest of elements n Extra-breathable waterproof laminate barrier, supersoft-brushed tricot liner and waterproof seam-sealed zippers n Comes with a three-year waterproof warranty SRPs: DryJoys Tour XP Rain Jacket £200, Rain Shirt £175, Rain Trousers £155

n Designed for wet weather in warmer conditions and features the lightest rainwear material ever produced by FootJoy n A 2.5-layer bonded fabric construction, complete with four-way stretch technology n DWR finish, 20,000mm waterproof barrier, YKK waterproof zippers and double storm flaps ensure you’ll never get caught out by the rain again n Easily packable n Comes with a three-year waterproof warranty n A host of stylish, on-trend colours are available n Extremely versatile SRPs: FJ HydroLite Jacket £130, Half-zip Rain Shirt £125, Short Sleeve Rain Shirt £115, Trousers £90

48 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

There is an exciting new look for the clothing and footwear brand this winter, says Dan Murphy “This high-performance, seasonal collection is the result of years of intensive testing and research, representing what I believe is the most visually striking and golf-performance infused outerwear range on the market,” said Russell Lawes, FootJoy’s European marketing manager. “We have received tremendous feedback towards what is our most stylish and high-tech offering to date.”

FJ PERFORMANCE SOFTSHELL JACKET AND VEST n Warm, water-resistant outer layer n 3-layer bonded fabric construction and knit fabric with FJ four-way stretch and DWR finish will keep you dry and warm n Brushed tricot lining and waterproof breathable laminate barrier provides a soft and stretchy feel for maximum comfort and mobility on and off the course n Available in four great colour options: black and charcoal; orange, black and charcoal; stone and black; navy blue and grey n Ideal for combatting muggy, misty conditions or even light rain SRPs: FJ Softshell Jacket £100; Vest £85

NCG pp 48-49 Footjoy, Speedblade 19/09/2013 12:12 Page 49

REVIEWED

SLDR DRIVER PLAYS FAST AND

PACKS A PUNCH

TAYLORMADE

SPEEDBLADE IRONS TaylorMade’s new game-improvement iron is designed to launch the ball ‘exceptionally high and far’ and is therefore ideal for a range of abilities The SpeedBlade iron features an innovative pocket in the longer irons (3-7) that allows the face to flex at impact and increase ball speed and launch angle for distance. “The Speed Pocket performs where golfers need it most,” said TaylorMade’s Brian Bazzel. “Our research indicates that 72 per cent of shots by 5-25 handicap golfers are impacted below the center of the face. That typically results in lowlaunching shots of inconsistent distance. The Speed Pocket helps you launch those lowimpact shots on a consistently higher, longer carrying and softer-landing flight.” The SpeedBlade was created with input from TaylorMade’s wood engineers is designed in a similar way, with a fast face, a low centre of gravity to increase shot height as well as Inverted Cone face technology, which improves forgiveness.

Visually, the iron is striking thanks to a two-tone, satinnickel chrome plating with dark smoke satin. Each head has been individually designed and shaped progressively to optimise flight, distance and spin throughout the set. In the short irons, the toplines are slender, while the longer clubs feature more width for confidence and forgiveness. TaylorMade have created three wedges to complement the set, in lofts of 50, 55 & 60˚. They feature classic head shapes, a dark grey finish, and TaylorMade’s innovative ATV (all terrain versatility) sole, which, as the name suggests, makes the club ideal from any type of lie.

Call me a traditionalist, but while I have learned to get used to white heads I must admit they have never quite suited my eye. And if I am using a white-headed driver, I would certainly rather there was little else in the way of distraction on the crown. So when my SLDR sample arrived I was delighted to see that not only is the head a dignified metallic grey, it is also pretty clean. I think it draws attention back to the fact that TaylorMade drivers have always made great-looking heads with everything in proportion. For me personally it is this return to a classic look that is the standout feature of this driver but the main technological innovation comes in the form of a rail with a weight attached that you can slide from one end to the other that can promote a draw or a fade if needed. It’s such a visible piece of technology, and so intuitive to look at, that I suspect many who have previously ignored adjustability through not understanding how it works will give the SLDR a try. As for the performance and feel, my experience is that the flight is on the low side and certainly lowspinning, a great combination for some. These two things are related. So my advice would be to err on the side of additional loft and then benefit from the directness of a flight that sends the ball towards the target extremely quickly and directly. SRP: £349 (TP version with upgraded shaft £399) Review by Dan Murphy

THE LOWDOWN SRP: £599 (8 irons, steel shafts); £699 (graphite) W: taylormadegolf.eu

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 49

NCG pp 50-51 Mizuno, Persimmon 19/09/2013 12:14 Page 50

FREE AND EZ IZUNO earn great respect for their traditional-looking blade irons, but for me they deserve just as much credit for their game improvers, especially the ones that bridge the gap between two worlds so effectively. Indeed, over the past few seasons they have mastered the art of creating classic-looking irons that boast great levels of forgiveness and distance, making them ideal for everyone from a total beginner to a high singlefigure or low-teens player. Their latest family of game improvement irons takes it a step further. The JPX EZ cast and forged irons feature hot metal

faces that bolster ball speed for distance, as well as variable face thickness that increases forgiveness when you miss the middle. The cast irons are larger than the forged in many respects – though not all – and feature large pocket cavities in the 4 to 7 irons for a high launch and distance. Irons 8

Striking, forgiving, long and great to look at – Joe Whitley is a big fan of the latest JPX irons from Mizuno

to PW have deep pockets to improve finesse and feel and produce a flat flight. Mizuno say the smaller version of the JPX EZ irons is the most forgiving forged product they’ve created. Like the cast version, they are home to cavities that get smaller as you work your way through the set,

FIRST IMPRESSIONS FROM THE LAUNCH MONITOR What stands out most is how similar these look at address. Even though there is more bulk behind the face of the cast version and the sole is thicker, it is hidden extremely well. Similarly, if you were to have a blind feel test it would be hard to separate them. That’s not to say Mizuno’s forging process isn’t effective, I think it speaks more about how impressive the casting is. Indeed, both clubs feel responsive and soft. There’s no hint of the ball rocketing off the face uncontrollably, though distance is great. TrackMan suggested the cast version launched the ball higher than the forged, which is expected, as is the improved distance when you miss the middle and the lower dispersion. Both irons offer widespread appeal but the forged particularly excelled for me as I felt I could get the narrower sole closer to the ball. Review by Joe Whitley, 7 handicap

optimising launch, flight and distance as you go. However, there is noticeably less offset and the finish – a classy dark grey that is complemented by orange detailing nicely – is slightly lighter than the cast version. “Mizuno has never made equipment like this,” said the brand's Chuck Couch. “The JPX EZ is going to turn you into a player who can take risks – someone who can take the shot on and not think about the danger. You're going to hit shots that you've never been able to hit.” It is well worth having a fitting to find out which works best for you but we think everyone from beginners to single-figure players are catered for here.

MIZUNO JP SRP: JP X EZ X EZ

£80 per (steel); club JPX EZ F per club orged £80 (s teel) w: golf.m izunoeu rope.co m

NCG pp 50-51 Mizuno, Persimmon 19/09/2013 12:14 Page 51

HIT ONE OUT OF THE SCREWS

Do you remember the good old days and that exhilarating feeling of flushing a drive when the phrase ‘catching one out of the screws’ actually meant something? If massive titanium heads and adjustable hosels are not your bag, it will be refreshing to know there is still a British company lovingly crafting wooden golf clubs. Persimmon Golf, based in Carmarthenshire, offer a full range of wooden equipment, from classic 240cc drivers, to gorgeously

simple and stylish putters. Don’t think for a second you will be sacrificing anything, though – the clubs come with proper shafts and you will hit shots every bit as powerful as you can with the latest equipment. Indeed, their drivers even come in three different launch configurations meaning whatever your swing speed and swing characteristics you can find one to suit you. persimmongolf.co.uk 01558 822 552

NO SUBSCRIPTIONS ON SKYCADDIE SPORTS Buy a GPS device from SkyCaddie’s sub-£200 Sport range and get access to 30,000+ course maps free of annual charges. The promotion is part of the company’s 10th anniversary celebrations. Users will get free access to

yardages to the front, middle and back of greens. Access to SkyCaddie’s Club SG service retains its annual subscription fee of £14.95. Models in the Sport Series include the Aire (£129.95), the Gimme (£169.95) and the Watch (£179.95).

A BAG AND TROLLEY IN ONE Big Max have launched a bag and trolley that are permanently attached. The Concourse is a lightweight and compact trolley that sits flush to the bag’s surface and weighs just 2.1kg. A single touch and the trolley springs into life. After playing, click off the wheels and the trolley folds back into the bag. Ingenious! SRP: £329 www.bigmaxgolf.com

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 51

NCG pp 52 Equipment Titleist 19/09/2013 12:15 Page 52

GEAR INSIGHT

BUILDING IRONS FOR MATTEO Italy’s Matteo Manassero has already put Titleist’s latest 714 irons in his bag – but it is a set with a difference ake a peak into the bag of Matteo Manassero and you will see two different models of Titleist irons. For some time now, he has chosen to carry bladed MB short irons and at least one cavity-backed AP2 long iron. We spoke to Phil Dimmock, Titleist tour technician who is pictured above, to find out why and learn more about the challenges of building the Italian’s clubs...

Why did Matteo decide to blend from MB short irons to AP2 long irons? He actually originally went with a blended set on 712 as he felt he had more control over MB short irons, particularly the trajectory. With 712 this was generally from 7 iron down with MB (occasionally 6 iron). With 714 he has now gone with MB from 5 iron down. With the new model, he felt that the MB gave him the trajectory he wanted. Where in the set is the transition?

The 4 iron is AP2 and 5-PW is the bladed MB iron.

How tricky was it to achieve even gapping given the different characteristics of the two models – presumably it is not as simple as moving from, say, from a regular AP2 6 iron into an MB 7 iron? It was actually very easy as it was all done by loft requirements. Matteo has his desired lofts for each iron and they were built to that specification. This would differ from the stock lofts on offer for our new iron line. Anybody looking to do a mixed set will certainly need to take into consideration the loft increments as they move through the set as well as the extra forgiving nature of a more technical iron like AP1 or AP2. Were you surprised that he jumped from a blade to AP2 rather than CB? When he first turned professional, Matteo had a full set of AP2s and has gradually gained more and more confidence with blade-like irons making it easy for him to transition into the pure blade offered in MB. The new pre-worn sole design

52 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

IN MATTEO’S BAG Driver: Titleist 913D3 8.5, Fujikura Motore Speeder VC 6.0 X Fairway: Titleist 913F 13.5˚, Fujikura Motore Speeder VC 7.0 X Hybrids: Titleist 913H 17˚, Project X Black 6.5; Titleist 913H 21˚, Project X PXi 6.5 Irons: Titleist 714 AP2 (4 iron) & Titleist 714 MB (5-PW), Project X PXi 6.5, length +1/2”, standard loft, lie 1˚ flat Wedges: Vokey SM4 Raw 52-08, PX 6.0, loft 51˚; Vokey SM4 Raw 58-06, DG Spinner 120 Stiff Putter: Scotty Cameron GoLo 5 Tour Black, 34”

on MB 714 has further aided his confidence in the playability of these irons. From a long iron perspective AP2 provides more of the trajectory he was looking for than CB hence the AP2/MB combination.

Can you explain the difference in performance for Matteo between an MB 4 iron and an AP2 4 iron? This is entirely down to flight. Its not a strike or confidence element – Matteo is a pure ball striker and as such he can hit the MB long irons well, but he enjoys the flight of AP2 for his shot preference To what extent would you recommend a club player consider a blended set like Matteo’s? Any player of any level can certainly give consideration to a mixed set be that MB/CB, AP2/AP1 or even a combination of more than two. The keys are having confidence in what each iron provides and ensuring that you are properly custom fitted and certainly ensure gapping is taken into consideration especially given loft differences in our standard set make-up and forgiveness provided by each series in the line. n Titleist’s new 714 AP1, AP2, CB and MB irons are available now. Visit titleist.co.uk for more information.

NCG pp 53-55 Equipment Directory Ads 20/09/2013 14:05 Page 53

EQUIPMENT DIRECTORY

THE GREEN

STICK A back saving way to not only pick up your ball but repair your pitch marks also

Adjustable length with a pitch mark repairer and cup to pick up your ball

£29.99 including postage and packaging To order call

01270 875700 New Website Live from November 1st

www.seniorgolferuk.com

Universal Sky Pictures Ltd Microdrone Aerial & Specialist Photography Attract vital new business with TEE-TO-GREEN ‘ Drone’ helicopter photography! Qualified & award winning photographers produce a video for your website that will showcase your principle fairways with ‘ fly through’ videography and more Full day’ s Photography of your site with both ground and aerial photographs and video. Under £1000 complete. To see samples Visit universalskypictures.co.uk (Golf Club Photography page)

Nationwide service. Call John Hollidge 07890 448 805 for more info

FOR INSIGHT AND OPINION ON THE GAME OF GOLF, THERE'S ONLY ONE PLACE TO LOOK...

nationalclubgolfer.com www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 53

NCG pp 53-55 Equipment Directory Ads 20/09/2013 14:05 Page 54

EQUIPMENT DIRECTORY

54 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp 53-55 Equipment Directory Ads 20/09/2013 14:06 Page 55

T: 01233 666000 F: 01233 666300 E: sales@electrokart.com W: www.electrokart.com

THE WEIGHT

IS OVER

The E ro Kart Voleyct ager availa

ble Lithium Pa with a ck from

£2,395.0

NEW LITHIUM PACK AVAILABLE £785.00 Pack includes 24volt 30ah Lithium battery & Charger. Weight 8kg, taking 40kg from your buggy for improved performance & distance • 2 year warranty on pack • Constant power flow which means no voltage drop over • 18 holes of golf • Upto 10 times longer life • Faster charging. Also available Lithium Packs for golf trolleys from £199.00

UPGRADE KIT

Made in England

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 55

YONEX.CO.UK/GOLF

Putting more power into your hands The new EZONE XP is quite simply an exceptional range of clubs. Its revolutionary Dual Tungsten Power System combines a heavier head and grip, counterbalanced with a lighter shaft. The result? A perfectly balanced club that delivers more power with less effort. The new QuickAdjust System, allows you to fine-tune your woods for the ultimate, distance enhancing ball flight. Which means you not only have extra powerâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; but breakthrough power.

17004_xp_advert_UK_A4_SB.indd 1

20/09/2013 14:01

NCG pp 57 Lead to Travel 19/09/2013 13:53 Page 57

PLAY AWAY Exotic destinations | Latest deals & offers | Connoisseur Clive | Travel hints and tips | Competitions

DESTINATION OF THE MONTH

Ireland, with Club Choice OT so long ago golf in Ireland was becoming unaffordable. Now there are few places to rival it for value. We are all familiar with the country’s trophy courses but unless you have been you won’t know the likes of Knightsbrook Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort, pictured here. Designed by Christy O’Connor Jr and host to the 2011 Junior Solheim Cup it is typical of some of the fantastic second-tier courses that will set you back a small fraction of what you might expect to pay. Club Choice Ireland is a new alliance of over 30 resorts, hotels and clubs which ensures you get the most from your trip. They look after everything and have the added ‘on the ground expertise’ when it comes to tailoring a golf tour to suit you. We dispatched Connoisseur Clive to the Emerald Isle and you can read how he got on next month.

PLA FOR Y Y IT OURS ELF Typica l Knig

htsbro Three n ok dea ights’ B l: &B dinner a nd retur , two rounds, on n ferry www.c from £2 e lubcho 35pp iceirela nd.com

NCG pp 58-61 Connoisseur Clive Kintyre 19/09/2013 13:41 Page 58

Connoisseur

Clive

GB&I | Kintyre

KINTYRE

Our man heads to the south-west extremities of Scotland before calling in at Loch Lomond on his way back

Clive is our undercover roving reporter, who tells it like it is. NCG’s bon viveur plays off 13, always finds the best places to go and is an expert in enjoying himself, on and off the course You know the thing that gets my goat when I pick up a golf magazine? Finding somewhere described as a ‘hidden gem’‚ very often referring to a course that has been played for over 100 years. Wherever one looks in Scotland there are glorious courses, which brings me to Dunaverty, a most enchanting course, in Southend on the remote Kintyre Peninsula. It is barely 4,800 yards long but what joy there is to play it and gaze out over Sanda isle, Ailsa Craig and the Northern Irish coast. And just up the road in Campbeltown is a distillery that produces the most toothsome Springbank whisky, glasses of which make even a diabolical round seem better.

Clive’s Cigarometer Kintyre scores...

58 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp 58-61 Connoisseur Clive Kintyre 19/09/2013 13:41 Page 59

HAVE never been totally convinced about timeshares. It always struck me that when the sun comes out then so do so many of the brains of the people who buy the things from sales people who make your average bookmaker look like the very model of propriety. The reason I am telling you this is because one of the chaps got an invite to look round some timeshare places in Scotland recently with some quality golf thrown in buckshee too. So we kept him company, and here’s the thing, we didn’t get the hard sell at all. Indeed far from it. Instead we were taken to one of my favourite places on this earth, namely Machrihanish, and then popped over to play the Carrick Club on Loch Lomond. So let’s take a look at the golf first and I will tell you some more about this timeshare business in closing. But first Machrihanish, home of two superb golfing tracks and a little fun one to play in between taking on the big boys. It is an American developer, Southworth, which has done much to reinstate this beautiful part of the Kintyre peninsula to its rightful position in Scotland’s golfing firmament. The company has restored both the Ugadale and Royal hotels, the former a full wedge shot from the 1st tee of the rightly famous Machrihanish course where one tees off across the Atlantic Ocean. The Royal is in Campbeltown, the region’s main centre, and both are first-class places to stay with friendly staff and an executive chef, Brian James, who knows how to prepare some favourites, together with some more off-the-wall creations: haggis nachos anyone? But back to the courses: visitors normally start at Machrihanish Dunes, the David McLay Kidd creation of just six years. Expect a hugely warm welcome from everyone involved with the club when you do. But make sure you tee off the 1st. Do not let any of the extremely able and affable caddies or the day’s starter persuade you to play the back nine first. Why? Because the front nine can be so toe-curlingly tough that by the time you make the 9th green

Links charm The lunar landscape of Mach Dunes

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 59

NCG pp 58-61 Connoisseur Clive Kintyre 19/09/2013 13:42 Page 60

GB&I | Kintyre THE CARRICK

CARRICK ROOF TOP MACHRIHANISH DUNES THE CARRICK

CARRICK LOCH

MACHRIHANISH OLD

everything ahead will become so much easier, and not because they are that much easier, they will simply seem it. And if you are on your game you can have some fun carding a really good score coming home. Do hire a caddy and play safe as glory shots invariably end in disaster at the Dunes, rejoice in the magnificent scenery, especially those holes along the coast, and the old fashioned, derring-do atmosphere of Victorian golf that this young course has recreated. Next door is Machrihanish, founded in 1876 and extended from 12 to 18 holes by Tom Morris three years later. This is a superb golf course, tarnished only by the reduction in length of the 18th because shots to the last green were endangering players on the 1st tee. All around you can hear the ‘kleep, kleep’ cry of the oystercatcher, the club’s logo, and during springtime the bubbling

sound of the lark. And the first 16 holes are all something special with shots played to raised greens amid towering sand dunes. This course proves conclusively that, at 6,462 yards, it does not have to be enormously long to be tough. It would be lovely to say that visitors can get a warm Kintyre welcome in the Machrihanish clubhouse after a round, but, sadly, this was not what experience has taught me so instead we headed for the Old Clubhouse, part of the Ugadale Hotel, for a fine pub lunch and a decent glass of wine to talk about our magical morning. And then we head for Loch Lomond, a long but beautiful drive, and the resort splendours of the Carrick Club. And here may I formally thank Jai, a tall and elegant masseuse in the Carrick club spa for giving me what seemed like a new back after three days of travel, golf and some intensive post-golf festivity. It may have been a touch

60 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

FACTFILE Clive flew to Edinburgh with British Airways and was a guest of Machrihanish Dunes (machrihanishdunes.com) staying at the Ugadale Cottages, and of the Carrick Club & Spa at Cameron House (devere-hotels.co.uk). The trip was co-ordinated by RCI, the world’s largest timeshare operator (rci.com)

painful at the time but my it paid off handsomely: allowing me to swing easily and score well on the bonny, bonny banks of Loch Lomond that comprise 18 fine, lush holes of The Carrick, where the highlands and lowlands of Scotland meet one another. After the links of Machrihanish, here the ball sits up just waiting to

be struck and while getting to the highlands can be a bit of a pull, what goes up must come down and coming down the stretch, from the elevated tee at the par-3 14th, before sweeping down by the side of the loch is a delight. Especially as we were blessed with a day of glorious, bright sunshine and only the hint of a breeze. And strangely, our timeshare hosts did not try to sell us anything and only gave the sketchiest of outlines what their schemes were all about. I am still far from sure that I would want to get locked into such an arrangement with service charges, premiums required to swap homes and a property interest that is extremely hard to get rid of. Give me a well-stocked bar and a good big bed in a comfortable hotel within walking distance of the 1st tee and you will see before you a very happy man.

NCG pp 58-61 Connoisseur Clive Kintyre 19/09/2013 13:42 Page 61

Stunner Everyone should play Machrihanish

Carrick ace The scenic par-5 15th by the loch

Play here fo r free when you subscribe to NCG for a year! Go to nationalclu bgolfer.com / subscribe

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 61

Europe’s largest golf travel company

DISCOVER AMERICA GOLF BREAKS AVAILABLE IN 8 STATES ACROSS AMERICA INCLUDING ICONIC VENUES SUCH AS KIAWAH ISLAND, SAWGRASS, PEBBLE BEACH AND MANY MORE. SEE GOLFBREAKS.COM FOR MORE DETAILS.

Don’t forget to ask us about flights! Kiawah Island Golf Resort

5★

Charleston, South Carolina 7 Nights’ Self-Catering & 4 Rounds

Las Vegas, Nevada 7 Nights’ B&B & 4 Rounds FROM

Includes range balls

BUGGIES INCLUDED

£459

Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa Jacksonville, Florida 7 Nights’ B&B & 4 Rounds

5★ Exclusive SAVE

FROM

Includes range balls

BUGGIES INCLUDED

The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa

£150

£879

Includes range balls & FREE room upgrade

5★

SAVE

FROM BUGGIES INCLUDED

£155

£719

The Inn at Spanish Bay – Pebble Beach

5★

Pebble Beach, California 5 Nights’ Room Only & 3 Rounds

Includes $50 dining credit per night plus a complimentary round BUGGIES INCLUDED on The Links at Spanish Bay *

FROM

£1,779

* Selected dates only

Call us on 0845 250 8415 - we’re open 7 days a week or visit

Gofbreaks - A4 USA Advert September 2013.indd 1

20/09/2013 14:26

NCG pp 63 SFTW Sussex 19/09/2013 13:44 Page 63

GB&I | Sussex SOMETHING FOR THE WEEKEND

BRIGHTON

Stay in the vibrant town, play at a world-class heathland

WHERE IS IT? F you are looking to combine a weekend of superb golf by day with some lively refreshment by night, the south coast of England is as good a place as any in Great Britain. The vibrant attractions of Brighton are fairly well known and there is something for everyone in this quirky seaside town. We based ourselves at Hotel Seattle in the marina – 20 minutes’ walk from the centre – and it was the perfect spot from which to head out to enjoy the best golf Sussex has to offer; the large rooms (all stylish and modern) were perfect to spread out our gear in after being soaked on day one. And although the nightlife of the centre is easily accessed, if you’re tired after 36 holes on the links, there are lots of lively bars and good eateries in the marina.

“There is lots of brilliant golf within a 45-minute drive...”

WHERE TO STAY Hotel Seattle, Brighton Overlooking the swish marina among a myriad shops and restaurants, this chic modern hotel offers good-sized rooms sp ideal for storing/drying gear. Fabulous breakfast too! hotelseattlebrighton.com

We stayed here throughout, because non of the best golf in Sussex is close to each other, so there was not an obvious base. So we headed out each day and returned each evening to recharge the batteries ahead of the following day’s action. There is lots of brilliant golf within a 45-minute drive, starting with West Sussex. Found in a glorious heathland landscape, Pulborough (pictured) is one of the finest inland courses in Britain. Indeed, it suffers very little in comparison with Sunningdale. It is complemented by the two fine 18-holers at Royal Ashdown Forest – a day spent there is certainly one to remember – Mannings Heath, Goodwood and East Sussex National. And despite a surprisingly small number of links (given its length of coast), there is one world-class example (Rye, which requires correspondence with the secretary to enquire about a tee time) and a fine example in Littlehampton. Finally, Cooden Beach is another fun experience on the coast.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 63

NCG pp 64-65 ATOC West Hill 20/09/2013 09:41 Page 64

here can be few finer places to be on a weekday lunchtime than tucking into the famous carvery at West Hill before tackling this storied Surrey heathland. Once you turn off the busy A322 near Woking, just beside the railway bridge, another world is yours – West Hill really is a retreat from all that is frantic in modern life. Like so many of our great courses, it has undergone recent renovation, although nothing too arresting on a layout that has remained virtually unchanged since its creation just over 100 years ago. Rather, it has benefited from the love and attention of a new course manager who has improved the conditioning as well as overseen a programme of woodland management. Talking of management, it is fitting that the welcoming secretary here is Gina Rivett, since West Hill was originally created because one Marguerite Lubbock, unable to join existing clubs in the area on account of her gender, decided to commission her own. A Carnoustie man, Cuthbert Butchart, was the club’s architect and first professional with Willie Park Jr and Jack White (Open champions both) responsible for the routing. Pretty and undulating with a stream crossing several fairways, West Hill is perhaps best known for its quintet of short holes. These range from 149 to 211 yards with the latter regarded as the pick, demanding an accurate long iron or wood to a green protected on both sides by sand. The strongest hole may well be the 3rd, played parallel to the railway line and a meaty 465 yards from the back tee. It calls for a drawn tee shot to set up a long approach to a green that slopes from right to left. More typical though, on a course that is a shade under 6,400 yards, is the 16th, the tee shot played downhill and laid up in front of the stream to set up a short iron. The last hole climbs gently uphill towards the clubhouse – shades of the 18th at Little Aston – and a closing par is a highly satisfying way to finish before enjoying a drink on the patio to fortify yourself for a return to the real world.

GB&I | Surrey A TOUCH OF CLASS

WEST HILL

This Surrey heathland near Woking is an oasis of civility and style

Old school A view of the subtle par-4 8th hole.

64 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp 64-65 ATOC West Hill 20/09/2013 09:41 Page 65

PLA FOR Y Y IT OURS ELF Weekd ays: £7 5 per ro £95 per und or day; W eekend arrange sb ment a fter 3pm y : £85 westhil lgc.co.u k 01483 474365

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 65

NCG pp 66-68 Skibo Castle 20/09/2013 09:42 Page 66

SKIBO SHANGRI-LA

NCG pp 66-68 Skibo Castle 20/09/2013 09:42 Page 67

ention the Highland towns of Dornoch, Brora or Golspie to a golfer and you’ll lose them to a misty-eyed reverie of the game in its purest form; man versus the land, the elements and himself. If you drive the long journey north, it becomes something of a pilgrimage, travelling from Glasgow on the A9 and onwards up the spine of Scotland, past Stirling, Perth, skirting Gleneagles through the Cairngorms towards Inverness (on a stretch of road dubbed “The Killer” due to accidents caused by continual switching from single to dual carriageway). As you cross the Black Isle with Inverness behind you, you move beyond the UK’s most northerly city and the skies widen over a place that feels simpler, ancient, where land and sea meet to create a unique patchwork of coastal dunes, salt water marshes, tidal lochs and heather-clad mountains. Glance to the left as you cross the Dornoch Firth and you’ll notice a solitary white cottage on the northern shore. Rather than a crofter’s lonely outpost, the cottage marks the boundary of the Skibo Estate, 7500 acres of lochs and lakes, woodland, ornamental gardens and Giant Sequoia, home to Skibo Castle, the Carnegie Club and a golf course to rival any other on this fabled, far-flung coast. The entrance to Skibo is unprepossessing; a gateway off a narrow country lane and an intercom to announce your arrival before tracing a wooded driveway down to the house itself. And then all bets are off. When J. K. Rowling wrote of Hogwarts’ Room of Requirements, in which whatever you were most in need of would magically appear, she may have got the idea at Skibo. On arrival car keys are handed over to a liveried staff member and it is whisked away to who knows where, but you won’t need it; transport is provided by a fleet of spotless golf buggies or specc’d up, chauffeured Range Rovers that you can summon seemingly by the power of thought. The Carnegie Club is named in honour of Andrew Carnegie, Scots born steel magnate and philanthropist who bought Skibo in 1872 and whose family retained

Justine Board visits a fairyland of peace in Skibo Castle, where space and serenity meet the height of style and luxury in the upper reaches of the Highlands

NCG pp 66-68 Skibo Castle 20/09/2013 09:43 Page 68

Clockwise from top left: Mr Carnegie’s bedroom, Clubhouse at the Carnegie Links, the glass-roofed pool, The Carnegie Links, The Great Hall, loch on the Estate.

the estate until 1982 when it was bought by a private investor and transformed into an exclusive members’ club, whose number total around 400 gilded individuals. The house itself is less a castle, more a crenellated Edwardian manor with 20 huge, ludicrously comfortable suites and the magnificent wood panelled Great Hall, where you are warmly welcomed with a dram of whisky (in keeping with members being considered honoured house guests, there is no official reception desk). There are also 12 Estate Lodges scattered through the grounds, perfect for families or anyone wanting a little more seclusion, although with a maximum of 90 guests on any given night, privacy isn’t an issue, peace and tranquility hang lazily in the air. The pace of life here is slow, time is irrelevant and you can do as little or as much as you like, whenever you like; nothing and nowhere is off limits. Wander, aimless, through Scots Pines and historic parkland, swim in the jawdropping, steel-clad, glass-roofed pool (which you will have to yourself) or arrange a treatment in the excellent spa next door. Ask Colin to work miracles with your clay shooting, try quad biking, horse riding, fishing........or golf. The Carnegie Links course is

world class, revamped and rebuilt under the supervision of director of golf, David Thompson. Surrounded on one side by a salt water inlet and on the other by a fresh water haven for trout, it is a pristine homage to seaside golf, there are no tee times and holes can be played in any order. And it is unlikely you will see another soul. The clubhouse is one of Scotland’s most scenic, overlooking tidal Loch Evelix where wild geese perform formation fly pasts. Non members can now play the course with two fourballs available every day midweek in summer. At £300 per person (including lunch), it isn’t cheap, but then this is once in a lifetime stuff. For all the space and serenity, Skibo is a social place. Families are welcomed and facilities are

68 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

excellent. The Club offers a rare opportunity to spend quality time together in as safe an environment as possible, full of magic and discovery for kids. And if overwrought parents need some time for themselves, the Children’s Barn is fully supervised and packed to the rafters with toys, games, fancy dress, Nintendo Wiis, a petting zoo, sunken trampoline and craft or baking classes. All things to all people. Members meet and greet every Saturday evening over dinner, hosted by local bard and eighthgeneration Dornocher Alan Grant, complete with haggis address and witty banter, where formal dress and formal surroundings belie a fun and friendly occasion. Any lingering reserve goes out the window in the ensuing ceilidh – bravely attempted but riotous and

anarchic under the tutelage of the ever-patient Mary, for whom herding cats might be an easier endeavour. Skibo and the Carnegie Club is unlike anywhere else, at once rarefied and relaxed, where, for a price, you can experience what is priceless; the beauty of nature, time and space to breathe, a place where life is made easy and uncomplicated. My memory of Skibo feels hazy, as though it were a dream, something borne out in its Norse translation – Fairyland of Peace. Indeed. n Membership is currently available at The Carnegie Club, although be warned, it is not cheap. Members pay a one-off joining fee, an annual fee and a daily rate during their stay, including all food, drink and most activities, including unlimited golf at the Carnegie Links, the Children’s Barn and four hours of babysitting per day. For more information see www.carnegieclub.co.uk or call 01862 894900. For tee time enquiries at the Carnegie Links e-mail teetimes@carnegieclub.co.uk or call the pro shop on 01862 894 660

11-14 November 2013 Costa Daurada, Catalonia, Spain Register today for the premier B2B event for the golf travel industry Join over 600 golf tourism suppliers, 350 pre-qualified golf buyers and international press to establish new business contacts, meet key contacts and discover the developments driving golf travel.

draycote

whitefi

H O T E L

G O L F

ÂŁ39

from

Bed, Breakfast & Two Rounds of Golf

www.whitefieldsgolfclub.co.uk

01788 521800 Please quote ref: NCG1 to receive free range balls on your stay.

Draycote Hotel & Whitefields Golf Course and Club, London Road, Thurlaston, Nr. Rugby, Warwickshire CV23 9LF Tel: 01788 521800 Fax: 01788 521695 Email: davidmills@draycotehotel.co.uk Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability.

0-6449-J933 Golf Ad Update v3.indd 1

03/09/2013 17:25

NCG pp 71 The Main Course Aldeburgh 20/09/2013 10:40 Page 71

GB&I | Suffolk WHERE IS IT? Near but not quite on the North Sea, Aldeburgh is to the north east of Ipswich in Suffolk. Just up the road is Thorpeness.

MUCH HISTORY? Among others, Willie Park Jr, JH Taylor and Harry Colt have all had a hand in laying out this beauty. In more recent times, Ken Brown has eliminated some of the threat of the gorse while tightening up the approaches. Dating back to 1884. Aldeburgh is England’s second oldest heathland. DID YOU KNOW... It’s the scene of Darwin’s last stand The brilliant Times golf writer Bernard Darwin hit his last ever shot here at the 9th, a 4-iron to within a few inches. Now I can retire from this unspeakable game," he said. Sadly, NCG could only manage a six.

HOW’S THE COURSE?

Yellow fever The 8th green surrounded by gorse in bloom

FEW places stir the senses like the arrival at Aldeburgh, with the charms of the dazzling gorse-lined fairways and the guarantee of a three-hour round. This is a course to visit at any time of the year due to it being the sandiest of inland courses. Expect a battle to preserve your dignity though. There are no par 5s to get stuck into and, with 12 par 4s over the 400-yard mark, anything around the 30-point mark should be saluted. Note: the par is 68 off the blue tees to an SSS of 73. Make sure you also leave time to explore the elegant and welcoming clubhouse, itself over 100 years old.

IS IT EXPENSIVE? The high-season rate is £75 per day. From November, that comes down to £50.

WHERE CAN I STAY?

THE MAIN COURSE

ALDEBURGH This timeless Suffolk beauty is a wonderful place to visit

The nearby Wentworth Hotel (far right) has a country house feel. It’s a two-minute walk from the centre of Aldeburgh and within a stone’s throw of the beach.

CONTACT aldeburghgolfclub.co.uk wentworth-aldeburgh.com

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 71

NCG Academies 19/09/2013 09:46 Page 2

PLAY | LEARN | ENJOY

WINTER GOLF ACADEMIES Golfer NATIONAL

CLUB

T R A V E L

Escape the cold this winter and join us for a week of playing and teaching at fabulous 5-star Penina in the Algarve.

transform your game; for the social golfer they are great fun weeks, with the added benefit that you leave a better golfer.

Our teaching weeks have something for everyone: for the better player it is the ideal way to get your game in shape for the new season; for the higher handicapper it could be the week you make the changes to

We organise informal competitions with great prizes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and our unique handicap system ensures everyone has a chance of winning. Think a ski trip for golf, in better weather â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10 hours of tuition, five rounds, a 5-star

resort and a great climate when winter is gripping the UK! Our head teaching professional Richard Ellis leads the weeks, and is supported by a team of top PGA professionals. Richard is one of the top teaching pros in the UK. He has gained hands-on experience from working with some of the best-known coaches and players in the game.

Call +44(0) 1753 754355 or Email golfpro@golfbreaks.com or visit www.golfbreaks.com/pga-pro for more information

NCG Academies 19/09/2013 09:46 Page 3

TRIP DATES

“

I was nervous about coming but we had a great fun, learned a lot and I can't wait to come back! – Olivia Brown, Novice with no handicap

”

“

I would highly recommend these trips. It is individually tailored and you get lots of attention from the three pros – Nigel Hall, 17 Handicap

November: Saturday 15th - Thursday 21st December: Saturday 14th - Thursday 19th January: Saturday 18th - Thursday 24th February: Saturday 15th - Thursday 21st March: Saturday 15th - Thursday 21st

”

“

I am hitting it great! Highly recommended as an intensive week to get your game in shape – Johnny Marsh, 6 Handicap

”

WHAT’S INCLUDED 5 nights’ B&B at 5* Penina 4 rounds of golf 2 hours’ coaching per day Complimentary transfers Complimentary range balls

From

per person without coaching

£649 per person £749 with coaching From

* Based on twin or double sharing & exclusive of flights

Golfer NATIONAL

CLUB

& We’ve partnered with Golfbreaks.com to deliver these weeks. Golfbreaks.com are the largest golf travel company in Europe and as a member of ABTA & IAGTO, you can be safe in the knowledge that you are travelling with a recognised and respected industry leader. Golfbreaks.com are also ATOL bonded and can book flights for these trips. T R A V E L

Club Choice Ireland 19/09/2013 09:41 Page 1

Great Value Tailor Made Golf Packages to Ireland

Club Choice Ireland is an Alliance of Resorts, Hotels & Golf Clubs coming together to offer you tailor made golf packages to Ireland!

3 NIGHT

5 NIGHT

GOLF BREAK

• 3 BED & BREAKFAST IN 4* HOTEL • 2 ROUNDS OF GOLF from • 1 EVENING MEAL £210pps • RETURN FERRY*

• 5 BED & BREAKFAST IN 4* HOTEL • 3 ROUNDS OF GOLF from • 2 EVENING MEALS £330pps • RETURN FERRY*

Club Choice Locations

*Price is subject to availability and 4 people travelling together

Tel: (0800) 285 1490 | info@clubchoiceireland.com | www.clubchoiceireland.com

NCG pp 75 Instruction Lead 19/09/2013 16:43 Page 75

Instruction section in association with

The UK’s Largest Golf Retail Group

YOUR GAME Hit it further and straighter | Hole more putts | Sharpen your short game | Golf psychology | Fitness tips TIP FROM A TOUR PRO:

KEEP THE

PUTTER HEAD

SQUARE European Tour winner Thomas Aiken on how to get the ball running at the hole

There are many fundamentals to get right when putting but this one is crucial as it involves the putter head. I was taught when I was a kid by Mark McNulty that you must release the clubhead squarely. This is obviously a long putt as I have a long followthrough but the putter head has passed my hands and I have accelerated. The biggest thing with amateurs is they don’t commit to the putt, you must always stay down even after impact. I am looking out the corner of my eye but am trying to keep my head as still as possible.

European Tour star Thomas Aiken has won twice on tour including this year’s Avantha Masters.

THE UK’S LARGEST GOLF RETAIL GROUP WWW.FOREMOSTGOLF.COM

GRIP Make your only point of contact the right one

A fail-safe way to attack the ball from rough

F you are struggling with getting the correct hold on the club, it is good to try a couple of simple things. Firstly, practise your grip as far away from the course or even range as possible. Changing a grip is a major undertaking and there is nothing like hitting a few bad shots to make you give up on what can be a game changer. So I would recommend practising at home so that the next time you hit a ball in anger the grip feels comfortable.

The final appearance of the grip is that the palms are generally facing each other. Now you can assume your set-up as normal.

Shot on location at Las Colinas Golf & Country Club

Simon Harrison is head professional at Lilley Brook in Gloucestershire. He is one of over 1,000 Foremost pros from all over the UK to give tuition. www.simonharrison-pga.co.uk

CHECKPOINT 1 In order to get the required soft landing you need to keep as much loft on the blade as you can. To do this set up with the shaft in a neutral position rather than the hands too far forward. Aim to hit an inch behind the ball in order to let the club slide under the ball.

CHECKPOINT 2 Set up with 60 per cent weight on the front leg and turn around this braced leg. Avoid shifting your weight as this will affect your quality of strike.

CHECKPOINT 3 The swing is a chest and arms action with stiff wrists. Stiff wrists create the required dead strike and the soft landing. Wrist hinge adds unwanted power and the ball will race across the green.

ALSO INSIDE n RECOVERY TIME P76 Get up and down from rough n GET A GRIP P78 Back to basics n HIT IT BETTER P80 Tips to work on your ballstriking

How to hit it crisply every time

GET A HIT IT FIRM LAND IT SOFT

THE UK’S LARGEST GOLF RETAIL GROUP WWW.FOREMOSTGOLF.COM

STRIKE FORCE

OU are faced with a short shot out of thick greenside rough to a pin close to both you and the front edge of the green. And water behind. How do you hit it hard enough to get it out of the rough but with a soft landing? In short set up and play it like a short bunker shot!

PUT your hands on the golf club carefully. The best way I have found is to hold the club directly in front of your chest at a 45˚ angle, while holding the shaft with your right hand, and then gripping the club with the left hand. Once

you have your left hand firmly secured in the fingers of your left hand, take the right hand off the shaft and assume your grip. Make sure that the lifeline of your right hand is fitting snugly up against the thumb of your left hand.

It is important to hold the club in the roots of the fingers with your left hand. A common problem I see is golfers holding the club too far into their palm.

RACTISE hitting some shots with a tee peg placed 4 to 5 inches in front of the ball. Now try to hit the ball while also attempting to sweep away the tee. This encourages you to transfer your weight correctly onto your front foot through impact and also encourages a downward strike which is essential to hitting quality iron shots. This should help you achieve more of a ball-then-turf contact and also help reduce any heavy and thin shots.

CHECKPOINT 4 Rotate your right shoulder past where the ball lay whilst trusting that the club's loft will get the ball in the air. There is no need to hit down at it.

Shot on location at Hacienda Del Alamo in Murcia. Visit www.clubdegolfhda.com

Stuart Dowsett is head professional at Sundridge Park in Kent. He is one of over 1,000 Foremost professionals from all over the UK to give tuition. Contact Stuart on 02084 605 540 or visit www.stuartdowsett.co.uk Shot on location at Las Colinas Golf & Country Club

76 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 77

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 79

80 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

John Murray is head professional at Moray in Scotland. He is one of over 1,000 Foremost pros from all over the UK to give tuition. For more www.johnmurraypgapro.co.uk

NCG pp 76-77 Harrison Foremost 19/09/2013 16:27 Page 76

76 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

CHECKPOINT 2 Set up with 60 per cent weight on the front leg and turn around this braced leg. Avoid shifting your weight as this will affect your quality of strike.

NCG pp 76-77 Harrison Foremost 19/09/2013 16:27 Page 77

THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LARGEST GOLF RETAIL GROUP WWW.FOREMOSTGOLF.COM

HIT IT FIRM LAND IT SOFT A fail-safe way to attack the ball from rough

Shot on location at Las Colinas Golf & Country Club

Simon Harrison is head professional at Lilley Brook in Gloucestershire. He is one of over 1,000 Foremost pros from all over the UK to give tuition. www.simonharrison-pga.co.uk

CHECKPOINT 4 Rotate your right shoulder past where the ball lay whilst trusting that the club's loft will get the ball in the air. There is no need to hit down at it.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 77

NCG pp 78-79 Dowsett Foremost 19/09/2013 16:29 Page 78

GET A

GRIP Make your only point of contact the right one

Shot on location at Hacienda Del Alamo in Murcia. Visit www.clubdegolfhda.com

NCG pp 78-79 Dowsett Foremost 19/09/2013 16:30 Page 79

THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LARGEST GOLF RETAIL GROUP WWW.FOREMOSTGOLF.COM

The final appearance of the grip is that the palms are generally facing each other. Now you can assume your set-up as normal.

PUT your hands on the golf club carefully. The best way I have found is to hold the club directly in front of your chest at a 45Ë&#x161; angle, while holding the shaft with your right hand, and then gripping the club with the left hand. Once

It is important to hold the club in the roots of the fingers with your left hand. A common problem I see is golfers holding the club too far into their palm.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 79

NCG pp 80 Murray Foremost 19/09/2013 16:31 Page 80

THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LARGEST GOLF RETAIL GROUP WWW.FOREMOSTGOLF.COM

STRIKE FORCE How to hit it crisply every time

Shot on location at Las Colinas Golf & Country Club

80 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

John Murray is head professional at Moray in Scotland. He is one of over 1,000 Foremost pros from all over the UK to give tuition. For more www.johnmurraypgapro.co.uk

Smartcaddy 19/09/2013 09:43 Page 1

dy ad tc ar sm

smartcaddy Powered by Lithium

ORDER NO W FOR NOVEMBE R DELIVERY AND RECEIV EA

FREE TROL L TRAVEL B EY AG WORTH £2 4.99

New for 2013

SMARTCADDY Eco • 27 Hole lithium battery • Lightweight • Folds with 1 touch • All metal construction

Only £449.00 inc UK delivery

Tel: 01159 361 007 • Email: info@smartcaddy.co.uk

www.smartcaddy.co.uk

NCG pp 82 Columnist KM 19/09/2013 16:32 Page 82

GOLF PSYCHOLOGY

KARL MORRIS The power of perception and how you look at the game OW many times have you stood in a line at your local bank waiting to get to the counter? It is lunchtime and, in their infinite wisdom, the powers that be have decided to just have one person working the counter window. You only want to pay in one cheque but the five minutes you have stood there feels like an hour. Yet the very same hour flew by when you watched your favourite TV show. Cruising along the motorway at 70mph seemed comfortable enough but on the side road 40mph seemed like a crawl until you went down a winding country lane and 30mph seemed a bit excessive. Welcome to the wonderful world of human perception. This is our ability to experience objective reality and put our own unique interpretation on the unfolding event. In a wonderful book every golfer should read called ‘Golf Science’ by Mark Smith the power of perception is explained and how this can affect the way we score. In a series of studies golfers who had played well that day and had low scores judged the size of the hole to be bigger than the players who played worse. Handicaps did not correlate with the judged hole size suggesting better players did not see the hole as being bigger, but players who were playing well on a given day did. These studies suggest there is a relationship between golf performance and the perception of hole size. The question that of course arises is: Does a golfer putt better because he sees the hole as being bigger or does he putt better and therefore see the hole as bigger? My own thoughts over the years have been that you should do as much as possible to shape your own perception of the game to give yourself the best possible chance of success. I often see golfers standing on the practice putting green before they play trying to hole short putts and, as we all know, it only takes a couple of lip outs for the thought gremlins to tap on your shoulder. It has always made much more sense to me to finish your short putting practice by putting to a much smaller object like a tee. The perception is that if you miss the tee then you would probably have still hit the hole; hit the tee and – my goodness – the hole is going to seem enormous.

Picture this What could possibly go wrong?

82 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

‘Do you perceive the game as difficult or a challenge?’ Over the years many players that I have worked with have taken this a step further and actually practised putting to a needle! Standing on a wide open driving range is always going to make the course look narrow. Your ‘fairway’ in practice should be tighter than the real game ever is. If you can practise to an imaginary 15-yard fairway then a standard 25 to 30-yard fairway is going to seem like a field. Most sports understand the concept of making a part of practice more difficult than the game but in golf we have tended to miss the trick. Overall you need to look at and challenge some of your existing perceptions of the game you play. Most of the time working with players on their Mind Factor it is about challenging

limiting perceptions. Do you perceive the game as being difficult or a challenge? Do you see the time in between shots as being slow or do you choose to perceive that time as an opportunity to enjoy the company you are with and the glorious surroundings. It is certainly not for me to say what your perceptions should be as that is for you to choose. But you might want to keep asking yourself if, what you are currently perceiving the game to be, is useful to your progress and enjoyment. Begin by rolling a few putts to a tee before you play, allow yourself to perhaps see the hole as being a little bit bigger and just maybe some of your other perceptions may begin to expand and allow a different kind of golfer to emerge. n Karl is running his Mind Factor three-day certification on November 21-23 in Manchester. Primarily aimed at coaches and players of all levels it is an opportunity to learn the tools and techniques used by Mind Factor clients that have produced four Major champions. www.themindfactor.com

NCG pp 83 UA Supplement Cover 19/09/2013 10:37 Page 83

In association with

PLAY BETTER THIS WINTER Use our brilliant 32-page guide to improve all aspects of your game... even when the weather turns nasty PLUS WHAT YOU NEED TO WEAR TO REPEL THE ELEMENTS

NCG pp 84-85 UA Contents 20/09/2013 09:51 Page 84

NCG’S E UID WINTasEsociRatioGn with In

MEET THE MEN YOU’LL LEARN FROM Andrew Richardson Club: Blackpool North Shore This passionate Tottenham (and Blackpool) fan will take you through the key long-game skills needed to excel in the winter.

Ben Squires Club: Royal Lytham Ben took over from the legendary Eddie Birchenough at the fabled Open venue last year. His quick tips will help you save shots around the green.

84 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

Andrew Lancaster Club: Fairhaven Andrew swears by the tuition of American Jimmy Ballard and has lots of fun, easyto-understand drills to use on the range throughout the winter.

NCG pp 84-85 UA Contents 20/09/2013 09:51 Page 85

Welcome TO many golfers, the end of September signals the moment to throw the clubs in the garage and arm themselves with the television remote control. And while we are confirmed fans of winter golf at NCG, even we would acknowledge it is not always an appealing prospect. However, there are very good reasons to keep playing over the inclement weather. Firstly, the gear available to us all now is light years (literally) away from the kind of stuff we used to wear when it was wet and cold. We have produced this guide in association with Under Armour and showcase their 2013 range over the next few pages. There’s now no excuse not to play during the winter, because there is now no excuse not to stay warm and dry (while remaining comfortable). Secondly, winter offers a perfect opportunity to improve your game. In the summer it is really hard to drag ourselves away from the course; playing is more fun. But when the weather is less pleasant, it is a more appealing option to head to the range and improve your game ready for the new season. Inside, we have a special section devoted to range drills. And on the occasions you do venture on to the course, our guide (which you can see being shot here) will help lower your scores, with some great little tips on how to play effective winter golf. Enjoy this guide, and your winter golf...

Contents

86 90 92 97 100 103 108 110

WINTER APPAREL 2013 Showcase of Under Armour’s latest THE SCIENCE OF HEAT Under Armour’s technology secrets HIGH-FLYING DRIVES Tee it LOW to hit it high...! PERFECT FAIRWAY WOODS Produce sweet strikes every time HOW TO HIT CRISP CHIPS Never fat it again... LAG PUTTING DRILL Four tees stop you three putting

Shot on location at Fairhaven GC Photography by Simon Taylor

BUCKET LIST A drill for extra power FINGER OF BLAME Grip trick shows up swing flaws

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 85

NCG pp 86-89 UA Gear 20/09/2013 11:28 Page 86

WINTER GUIDE I GEAR

THE 2013 COLLECTION

We showcase Under Armour’s new range – including a look at how their technology helps you stay warmer for longer without extra bulk

E often hear about the advances in equipment technology over the past two decades. But in fact there is good reason to suggest there have been greater improvements in what we actually wear to play the game.

It wasn’t that long ago we simply had to put on two jumpers and what was optimistically described as a waterproof jacket, and hope for the best. The scenario these days could not be more different. And Under Armour are leading this revolution.

INFRARED COLDGEAR Look out for the Infrared pattern on UnderArmour’s lining – that’s the secret behind ColdGear Infrared. A metal roller applies a soft, thermo-conductive coating on to the inner layer of our performance fabrics. This coating absorbs and retains your own body heat, so you stay warmer for longer – with no extra weight or bulk. Bottom line: it’s the best insulation system UA say they have ever created.

UA COLDGEAR INFRARED INSULATED JACKET NCG VERDICT: Incredibly warm – and with total freedom of movement SRP: £95 n Soft, thermo-conductive coating on the inner layer absorbs and retains body heat, so you stay warmer, longer n Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish repels water without sacrificing breathability n 100g Primaloft insulation is lightweight, water-resistant and breathable, with the ability to be compressed without losing its superior warmth n Wind-resistant stretch side panels provide superior mobility and a soft, warm inner layer

86 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp 86-89 UA Gear 20/09/2013 11:29 Page 87

NCG’S WINTER GUIDE In association with

UA COLDGEAR INFRARED INSULATED VEST NCG VERDICT: Perfect if you’re convinced sleeves are restrictive but need warmth SRP: £80

UA THERMO COLDGEAR INFRARED GOLF 1/4 ZIP NCG VERDICT: This wille essential SRP: £60

AN EXTRA BIT OF HELP IN KEEPING THE WARMTH IN Don’t let the warmth escape by donning headgear like this...

UA DOUBLE TIME BEANIE SRP: £15

UA ELEMENTS STORM ADJ CAP SRP: £15

UA COLDGEAR INFRARED STORM BEANIE | SRP: £12

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 87

NCG pp 86-89 UA Gear 20/09/2013 11:30 Page 88

WINTER GUIDE I GEAR

SWEATERS, POLOS AND BASELAYERS

NCG’S WINTER GUIDE In association with

Heat your upper body EVO COLDGEAR FITTED MOCK NCG VERDICT: Original and best SRP: £40

EVO COLDGEAR COMPRESSION MOCK NCG VERDICT: Toasty | SRP: £40

UA V-NECK STRIPE SWEATER NCG VERDICT: Hard-wearing SRP: £80

PERFORMANCE TROUSERS Showerproof and flexible

UA V-NECK SWEATER NCG VERDICT: Your banker SRP: £70

UA ELEMENTS COLDGEAR STORM PANT

Photography by Joe Whitley

UA GRAPHIC ENERGY STRIPE POLO NCG VERDICT: Stylish colours SRP: £35

NCG VERDICT: The solution for winter golf trousers SRP: £60 n Extremely comfortable wind and water protection on the course n Superior warmth for cold weather play n Durable woven fabric with a DWR finish to repel stains and water n 4-way stretch

88 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp 86-89 UA Gear 20/09/2013 11:32 Page 89

WATERPROOF SUITS UnderArmour’s two waterproof suits feature different technologies but both are guaranteed to deliver when the weather is against you

EU STORM COCONA FULL ZIP JACKET 6 NCG VERDICT: Incredibly breathable | SRP: £120

EU STORM COCONA PANT| SRP: £80 6 n The best-performing waterproof in its price point (25,000mm waterproof (versus industry standard of 10,000mm) and Breathability of 30,000g (against an industry standard of 10,000g). n ArmourStorm fabrication is 100 per cent waterproof with fully taped seams, keeping you dry and protected n Windproof materials and construction shield you from the elements n Cocona fabric disperses moisture to dry incredibly fast while remaining ultra-soft for unrivalled all-day comfort n Bungee cord hem for a secure, custom fit

STORM COCONA JACKET 5 NCG VERDICT: The best value suit on the market – bar none | SRP: £90

STORM COCONA PANT 5 SRP: £60 n Performs better than anything in the market in terms of breathability (25,000g versus an industry standard of 10,000g) n ArmourStorm fabrication is 100 percent waterproof with fully taped seams, keeping you completely dry and protected n Windproof materials and construction shield you from the elements n Cocona fabric disperses moisture to dry incredibly fast while remaining ultra-soft for unrivalled all-day comfort

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 89

NCG pp 90-91 Science of Heat 19/09/2013 12:03 Page 90

WINTER GUIDE I SCIENCE

THE SCIENCE

OF HEAT

Leading golf biomechanist Jean-Jacques Rivet on why you can only play your best when you are the right temperature

N terms of the ‘science of heat’, it is all a question of blood. Exposed to cold, our blood tends to cool. The brain reacts by activating thermogenesis (heat production). Muscles contract, we shudder. When arterioles of the skin constrict, the blood is diverted to the deeper tissues and the temperature rises. Warming up is important to optimise the coordination. But a warm-up is not only to get all your muscles stretched, but to make them work and be ready, so there is a combination of heat and co-ordination. That is why if you combined the compressive (coordination) with the heat (warm) it is ideal. You will get warm more quickly and be ready to hit. You will not be under the cold “phase” and in between shots you will heat up. The thermic, or thermal, energy which is creating the “heat” inside the body is due to the molecular agitation of the body so you need to move to be able to have “heat” inside your body. The muscular potential energy is created in the backswing when you optimise the synchronisation of the kinematic muscular chains around the core: so you engage even more muscles which are “moving” and increase the heat . When it moves, your body creates heat – so you need to have clothes which keep the heat, otherwise the transfer of energy between the cold and the warm will make the temperature come down. Radiation energy is emitted by nuclear reactions in the sun. This mode of transfer occurs in the presence of electromagnetic waves. Radiant energy enables an energy transfer between the body that emits radiation (source) and one that absorbs (receiver). The less energy you are using to perform the swing, the more efficient you will be during five hours on the course. The more you are saving thermic energy, the less effort will be required by the muscles to keep warm.

ABOUT JEAN-JACQUES JJ is a leading sports biomechanics and sports injury expert. He is the founder of the Biomecaswing Center, based at Terre Blanche GC. Clients include European Tour golfers and French Golf Federation. He oversees sport biomechanics for the European Tour and works with Under Armour on their performance apparel.

90 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp 90-91 Science of Heat 19/09/2013 12:03 Page 91

NCG’S WINTER GUIDE In association with

SUCCESS STORY OF

UNDER ARMOUR

From Washington DC to Tottenham FC. UA’s David Ayers charts their rise and rise

COLD FRONT STARTS When the blood cools, the brain reacts by beginning heat production. Muscles contract and the body shudders.

The origins

WARMING UP When the body moves, it creates heat – but you need the correct clothes to capture the heat otherwise the energy will be lost.

GOOD FOR GOLF The less energy you are using to perform the swing, the more efficient you will be during five hours on the course.

The brand started in American Football. Kevin Plank founded the company; he was a special teams player for the University of Maryland and he developed the first tight T-shirt. That was the first innovation; taking that fabric and putting it into a fit that has never before been used in that environment. It transformed the way a football player approached the game. It spread by word of mouth; Kevin's market was only as far as he could drive his car –

Under Armour in football The Tottenham relationship has been great for us. Everything we do has to come back to the athletes. You can't sit in the office and design kits – it has to take the athlete into account. We got their team over here to spend a tonne of time to find out what they

Under Armour in rugby What a great project. The more we got close to the game and particularly Wales, we realised we have a lot more in common. Kitwise it was open to tremendous

he sold the shirts from his trunk. Kevin's business partner was a Lacrosse player and we have early roots there as well. The company grew in the Washington DC area, where the summers are very hot and this performance fabrication suited the environment well. Back then everyone was wearing cotton T-shirts. Kevin learned about the benefits of compression but also he knew if you were sweating the last thing you wanted was a heavy, wet cotton T-shirt. Back then, UA was all synthetic fabrications.

want and spend time on the biomechanics to make sure we are lining up our technologies to their needs. We were already seeing a lot of our layering on the pitch. It probably wasn't making our competition happy to see our logos popping out of collars, particularly as it got colder!

innovations; fabrications, stretch, grip and fit . We pride ourselves on the hidden things – more stitches per inch, reinforcing seams. We innovate with materials and also construction.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 91

NCG pp 92-93 UA Long Game DPS 2 19/09/2013 10:46 Page 92

WINTER GUIDE I LONG GAME

FLIGHT TIME Why teeing it low will encourage a higher trajectory

NCG’S WINTER GUIDE In association with

92 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp 92-93 UA Long Game DPS 2 19/09/2013 10:48 Page 93

✔

WATCH IT SPIN

HIS will sound contrary to what you might have read before – but try it to produce a higher ball flight for when there’s no run in the winter. Instead of teeing it up higher, my personal belief is to tee the ball lower.

Bounce a ball on the top end of the face and you will see that it top spins. This is not what you want for a higher ball flight.

Bounce a ball at the bottom of the driver face and you will see that it will have backspin. This is how you want the ball coming off.

✔

TEE IT DOWN This has to be taught right, if you have a steep angle of attack you will produce a high ball flight whatever. But if your path is correct you can expect a higher

ball flight if you tee it lower. Try it on the range and you will see that, if struck correctly, the ball will leave the clubface on a higher flight than you ever imagined.

✔

Andrew Richardson is the head professional at Blackpool North Shore GC and is an Under Armour stockist. blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com

POSITION THE HANDS Have your hands slightly behind the ball at address and check that the clubface remains square. When you have your hands behind

the ball it can open the clubface too much, hands forward and it can get closed. Finally have the ball further forward in the stance.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 93

NCG pp 94-95 UA Long Game DPS 1 19/09/2013 11:28 Page 94

WINTER GUIDE I LONG GAME NE key shot to have up your sleeve in the colder months is the punch shot. A lower, more penetrating ball flight with your irons will see you hitting more greens and scoring better. Ninety per cent of golfers come up short with their approaches so remember to club up into the wind.

PUNCH AND O

BEAUTY Drill your irons under the wind

Andrew Richardson is the head professional at Blackpool North Shore GC and is an Under Armour stockist. blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com

94 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WINTER GUIDE In association with

NCG pp 94-95 UA Long Game DPS 1 19/09/2013 11:29 Page 95

GO DOWN THE GRIP A big factor in getting this shot right is to have plenty of control. So grip down the club,

as much as two inches, and practise swinging the club. Remember, complete both the takeaway and through swing.

BACK IN THE STANCE Put the ball back in your stance so you are playing it off the back foot. When you do that

most people find that the clubface will open a touch so you will need to make sure that you have the face square.

WEIGHT/HANDS FORWARD We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to change too much in the set-up but your final check point is to have your

hands forward of the ball. A good reference is to check that they are opposite your left thigh at address (and impact).

SHORT BACK AND THROUGH Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t try and swing the club any differently than normal, just concentrate on making a

shorter backswing and mirror that in your followthrough. The result of all this should be a new, penetrating flight.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 95

NCG pp 96 UA Long Game Single 1 19/09/2013 11:31 Page 96

WINTER GUIDE I LONG GAME

MANAGE YOUR

GAME BOGEY HOLE All of us have a hole at our course which we don’t fancy much. Change your strategy this winter and see it in a different light.

THERE ARE OPTIONS Law doesn’t dictate that the driver has to be hit on every par 4/5. Use the winter to find a ‘go to’ club and build up your confidence.

HE ball will travel maybe 20 per cent less in the winter yet many of us will carry on hitting the same clubs as we do during the summer. And then look surprised when we invariably

keep coming up short or fail to get the necessary bounce and run on to the green. Try and be more switched on this winter in terms of your clubbing and course management and hit the ground running in the spring.

TROUBLE FREE Take the trouble out of play. If you can’t carry the trouble make sure you can’t reach it. Wet bunkers and rough are no fun in winter.

DRIVE TIME Learn exactly how far your driver carries the ball and apply that. You should not be interested in distance merely the carry.

SHOES

e oes on th Most sh h soft it w e m o market c rI the winte spikes. In ctual a to e g han would c help hich will spikes w ility and b ta s r e with bett to hit it u o y will help further.

96 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

Andrew Richardson is the head pro at Blackpool North Shore GC and is an Under Armour stockist. blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com

NCG pp 97 UA Long Game Single 2 19/09/2013 13:11 Page 97

GET MORE FROM YOUR

FAIRWAY WOOD How to hit more long par 4s this winter NOT enough of us get the most from our fairway woods. Firstly, get the ball positioned about a ball’s width inside your left heel. The most common fault is having it too far back in the stance, Secondly, if you get the takeaway right then the downswing

will take care of itself as it is over so quickly. It will be swept away if you take it away slow and low – if you pick it up high then you can’t sweep it. Finally, because the ball isn’t going to get much run go with the more lofted (and easier to hit) fairway wood this winter.

NCG’S WINTER GUIDE In association with

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 97

NCG pp 98-99 UA Long Game DPS 3 19/09/2013 11:35 Page 98

WINTER GUIDE I LONG GAME

ANTI-FAT ADVICE

How to steer clear of catching too much turf, too early – a nightmare in the winter...

NCG’S WINTER GUIDE In association with

98 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp 98-99 UA Long Game DPS 3 19/09/2013 11:36 Page 99

LEAN ball striking is imperative in the colder months and there is nothing like a face full of turf to remind you to produce a better strike. There are a host of reasons why you may be chunking your irons but try and follow these three guidelines and it should get you striking it properly again.

MAKE SURE YO THE CORR U USE ECT BALL Too m

any high ha ndicappers use a high-s pinning ball in winter – whi ch is futile. They need a distance ball which will sp in less and also run m ore.

THE BALL POSITION To help prevent the dreaded fat move the ball back in your stance. There is not as much room for error in the winter months so tryto

introduce a punch shot to your armoury and get your confidence going again. And remember to keep the club moving through.

STAY CONNECTED When you are not ‘connected’ your hands will take over and this can lead to a fat. To keep the arms and body working together put the butt of the club into your belly

Andrew Richardson is the head professional at Blackpool North Shore GC and is an Under Armour stockist. blackpoolnorthshoregolfclub.com

button and place your hands on the shaft. From here you will get the feeling of everything working in unison with quarter swings and will stop the hands taking over.

STAY TALL When you regularly fat shots you are not maintaining your height through the shot. So make sure that you turn your shoulders

properly in the takeaway and do NOT dip or drop your spine in the downswing as this will have you heading for the turf too early.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 99

NCG pp100-101 UA Short Game DPS 1 19/09/2013 11:38 Page 100

WINTER GUIDE I SHORT GAME

TURN OFF THE

POWER Adopt a smoother chipping motion

Ben Squires is the head professional at Royal Lytham & St Annes, home to 11 Open Championships, and is an Under Armour stockist. www.royallytham.org

100 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

OU don’t set up for a chip shot because you want it to look good, you set up to reduce the majority of your power applicators so you can still make a positive stroke. A lot of people say to keep your chipping stroke similar to your putting stroke – I don’t agree with this as we don’t rotate our body through when putting which is something we must do in chipping.

NCG’S WINTER GUIDE In association with

NCG pp100-101 UA Short Game DPS 1 19/09/2013 11:39 Page 101

KEEP YOUR HANDS IN CHECK Use a narrow stance, grip down and move slightly closer to the ball. Have your weight more on

the left but your hands not too far ahead of the ball so your bigger muscles cannot contribute too much power.

KEEP THE BODY MOVING Keep the hands ahead of the clubhead and, to do that, you need to have your body rotating

through impact. Not static which will cause the clubhead to pass the hands and guarantee a poor contact.

DIFFERENT CLUB, SAME ACTION Use a variety of clubs so you have a variety of distances covered â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and then only work

on the same technique. By NOT having different actions for each club you will notice a quicker impreovement.

TOWEL NOT THE FLAG Too many people focus on the flagstick but the better chippers concentrate on their landing

area as this is all they can control. When practising use a generous area eg a towel and vary your distances (and clubs).

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 101

NCG pp102 UA Short Game Single 2 19/09/2013 13:38 Page 102

WINTER GUIDE I SHORT GAME

NARROW YOUR PUTTING FOCUS

How two elastic bands can help you to hit the sweetspot more often...

IT sounds simple but to hole more putts you will need to find the middle of the putter more often. To an extent, modern putters allow you more leeway with the distance

mishits travel but there’s no doubt you will be more successful if you can consistently find the sweet spot. Place two elastic bands just over a ball’s width apart to encourage this.

STOP... AND CHECK If you practise a two footer then you can almost stop the head at impact to check where it is aiming. The bands will also help to keep the putter square.

EYES DOWN..AND FOCUS Some like the idea that the putter head has eyes and you need to keep the eyes looking at the hole. For added focus putt to a single tee peg, this will really help when you are out on the course.

NCG’S WINTER GUIDE In association with

THROUGH THE GATE Another great drill is to place two tee pegs just over a putter head’s width apart and practise putting through the gate. As you improve and feel more comfortable narrow the gap – this is a drill that Tiger excels at.

NCG pp103 UA Short Game Single 3 19/09/2013 13:16 Page 103

DISTANCE

CONTROL Use this drill over the winter to improve your pace putting

1) FORGET THE HOLE Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t practise to a hole unless you are trying to hole it. Give yourself a 30-foot putt and start hitting to four tees at compass points.

3) MIX UP YOUR LINE Go for the left tee peg first, then the back tee peg and keep changing your tee peg with every putt. Keep things fresh and challenging.

HERE are few things more frustrating than finding the putting surface in regulation and then taking another three shots to get the ball in the hole. The biggest reason for this is poor judgment of pace. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter how well you read a putt, if you get the pace wrong then you will leave yourself a putt that you would probably rather not have.

2) VARY THE PUTTS It has been proven that the brain works most effectively when it is used more randomly so never go for the same point twice.

4) NOW AT THE HOLE With your last putt try and hole it. Having focused on a tee peg and your pace the hole should look a lot more enticing now.

Ben Squires is the head professional at Royal Lytham & St Annes, home to 11 Open Championships, and is an Under Armour stockist. www.royallytham.org

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 103

NCG pp104-105 UA Short Game DPS 3 19/09/2013 11:43 Page 104

WINTER GUIDE I SHORT GAME

A LINE IN THE

SAND Take the fear out of bunker shots

Ben Squires is the head professional at Royal Lytham & St Annes, home to 11 Open Championships, and is an Under Armour stockist. www.royallytham.org

104 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

ORMALLY in the summer months we need bounce on our bunker shots as it stops the club digging in and allows it to slide under the ball. In the winter, when thicker sand becomes more resistant, we need to eliminate some of the bounce and get the leading edge to dig into the sand. To help this we square the clubface up at address.

NCGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WINTER GUIDE In association with

NCG pp104-105 UA Short Game DPS 3 19/09/2013 11:44 Page 105

DRAW A LINE UNDER IT Most of us don’t have a clue where we hit the sand. This is similar to a drill that Gary

Player first used but I like to add a ball; draw a line in the sand and then concentrate on repeatedly hitting the line.

GREAT FEEDBACK The beauty of this drill is you get an immediate reference to where you have hit the sand.

It also helps to demonstrate the energy needed to escape the hazard as you can see from where the club has hit the sand.

LOSS OF ENERGY Here I have hit too far behind the ball and I have failed to escape the bunker. There hasn’t

been enough energy by the time the club has arrived at the ball which is crucial particularly in the winter months.

TOO MUCH ENERGY Here I haven’t taken enough sand, the impact has been too shallow and there has been too

much energy as I have hit too close to the ball. With some practice you will soon add the necessary feel that is required.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 105

NCG pp106-107 UA Range DPS 1 19/09/2013 11:46 Page 106

WINTER GUIDE I THE RANGE

FEED THE POWER

Use your golf towel in practice to help you keep a constant radius to your swing

NCGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WINTER GUIDE In association with

106 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp106-107 UA Range DPS 1 19/09/2013 11:47 Page 107

AVING done a lot of work on biomechanics it has become apparent that golfers typically suffer from rotator cuff, elbow, hip and wrist injuries at some point in their golfing careers. These problems are generally down to poor technique. This towel drill helps to integrate the whole shoulder system (the pec, lat & shoulder blade) and not just the tip of the shoulder.

USE YOUR GIRDLE Most golfers try to keep their left arm straight to try and create width in the backswing but end up solely using the rotator cuff instead of the shoulder system. This may feel more powerful but

that feeling is simply the arm and accompanying joints placed under tension. We should be trying to use the shoulder girdle and body which is more mechanically sound and guarantees a constant radius.

FEEL THE POWER One danger of a straight left arm in the backswing is it requires decent flexibility as well as the strain it places on your shoulder. Tuck a towel or hanky under your

Andrew Lancaster is the head professional at the James Braid-designed Fairhaven GC and is an Under Armour stockist. www.fairhavengolfclub.co.uk

left armpit and try to hit a few shots. At first it will feel horrible but stick with it. In time it will give you power and is very user friendly as it canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hurt your body.

JUST ONE ARM Tucking the towel under both arms is counter productive as it encourages the right arm to tuck in, which flattens the path on the

backswing. The right arm is the power arm, the left is the radius. If the right elbow is too narrow your body is compromised.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 107

NCG pp108 UA Range Single 3 19/09/2013 11:50 Page 108

WINTER GUIDE I THE RANGE

FETCH A PAIL

OF WATER

This looks daft, but it shows you how to get your swing back on plane

GOLFERS with a slice generally swing the club left of the target with an open clubface. The hands and body have to perform a complex set of manoeuvres to

simply get the club on to the ball, all of which lack in efficiency (see the inset pic below). This drill will help you to release the body and club as one.

YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL NEED A PARTNER Position a close and trusted friend to stand directly in front of you about 15 feet away. You are looking to hit his torso (rather than his face).

LOAD UP THE SWING Much like the golf swing you will load up on to your right side. From here you will be able to create some leverage and power and fire the contents of the bucket at your well-meaning friend.

NOW LET THE CLUB GO Another similar (and therapeutic) drill is to throw a plastic club down the practice ground. Again you are getting some immediate feedback on how you are releasing the club and the sensation of the body working correctly. Andrew Lancaster is the head pro at Fairhaven GC and is an Under Armour stockist. www.fairhavengolfclub.co.uk

NCG pp109 UA Range Single 4 19/09/2013 13:15 Page 109

QUICK WAY TO

LOSE YOUR SLICE Try this brilliant walking drill PLACE a piece of paper an inch inside the target line and a foot ahead of the ball, then try to step onto it as you swing through. Anyone who has tried to tuck their right elbow in as they start the downswing

(to try to lose a slice) ends up with the clubhead too far behind their body. Wherever you land your right foot indicates the direction the ball starts. A step to the left starts the ball left and vice versa.

NCGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WINTER GUIDE In association with

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 109

NCG pp110-111 UA Range DPS 4 19/09/2013 11:54 Page 110

WINTER GUIDE I THE RANGE

THE STROKE

INDEX

Secure the right release position

Andrew Lancaster is the head professional at the James Braid-designed Fairhaven GC and is an Under Armour stockist. www.fairhavengolfclub.co.uk

110 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

HIS drill works on two levels. It teaches you how to hold the club in the right hand and also how the club should be moved to find the ideal release position. The great thing about it is that you receive instant feedback as to the position of the clubface through impact.

NCGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WINTER GUIDE In association with

NCG pp110-111 UA Range DPS 4 19/09/2013 11:55 Page 111

THE RIGHT WAY Point the index finger down the shaft and make half swings ensuring that once you reach

waist height on the followthrough the right index finger is pointing at the target. Are you pointing at the hole?

TOO STRONG Here my index finger is too strong and is pointed under the grip. Once I attempt to point

the right index finger at the target the clubface will close and therefore start the ball left of target.

TOO WEAK Here I have gone the other way and am too on top of the grip and too weak.

The ball will go right because, as I attempt to point my index finger at the target, my clubface is left open.

TOO WEAK, AGAIN If the index finger finishes on the side of the grip the ball will leak right. On the downswing

we want the right hand to pull the trigger but in both the strong and weak positions it will only succeed in firing blanks.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 111

FAIRHAVEN GOLF CLUB Address: Oakwood Avenue, Lytham, FY8 4JU Web: fairhavengolfclub.co.uk Email: info@fairhaven golfclub.co.uk Telephone: 01253 736741

BLACKPOOL NORTH SHORE Address: Devonshire Road, Blackpool, Lancs, FY2 0RD Web: andrewrichardsonpro.co.uk Email: andrew.richardson@ foremostgolf.com Telephone: 01253 354640

GULLANE GOLF CLUB Address: West Links Road, Gullane, East Lothian, EH31 2BB Website: gullanegolfclub.com Email: proshop@ gullanegolfclub.com Telephone: 01620 843118

NCG’S WINTER GUIDE In association with ROYAL LYTHAM & ST ANNES Address: Links Gate, Lytham St. Annes, Lancashire, FY8 3LQ Website: www.royallytham.org Email: professional@ royallytham.org Telephone: 01253 720094

÷ Range

]

Shop OPEN

TINSLEY PARK GOLF CLUB Address: High Hazels Park, Darnall, Sheffield, S9 4PE Web: tinsleyparkgolfclub.co.uk Email: wmyellott@aol.com Telephone: 0114 2448974

BEAUCHIEF GOLF CLUB Address: Abbey Lane, Sheffield, S8 0DB Web: beauchiefgolfclub.co.uk Email: wmyellott@aol.com Telephone: 0114 2367274

8 Golf Course

Online

KEY

Use our at-a-glance guide to find out where your closest UA-filled shop is!

STOCKIST

UNDER ARMOUR

FIND YOUR

NCG pp112-113 Stockists Map 19/09/2013 16:42 Page 112

GAUDET LUCE GOLF CLUB Address: Middle Lane, Hadzor, Droitwich, WR9 7JR Website: gaudet-luce.co.uk Email: alec.fernihough@ gaudet-luce.co.uk Telephone: 01905 796375

WINDMILL GOLF ACADEMY Address: Henfield Road, Westerleigh, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, BS36 2FE Web: windmillgolfacademy.co.uk Email: info@windmillgolf.co.uk Telephone: 0117 970 9070

]

ST PIERRE GOLF CLUB Address: St Pierre Park, Chepstow, Wales, NP16 6YA Website: marriottgolf.co.uk Email: golf.stpierre@ marriothotels.co.uk Telephone: 01291 635205

VALE RESORT Address: Hensol Park, Hensol, Nr Cardiff, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY Website: vale-hotel.com/golf Email: golf@vale-hotel.com Telephone: 01443 665899

STONE DRIVING RANGE Address: Cold Norton, Stone, Staffordshire, ST15 0NS Web: www.no1golfshop.co.uk Email: thegolfshop@ stonedrivingrange.co.uk Telephone: 01785 760868

]

BEST PAR NONE Address: Unit 211, Trentham Retail Village, Stone Rd, Stoke On Trent, Staffs, ST4 8AX Website: bestparnone.co.uk Email: sales@bestparnone.co.uk Telephone: 01782 659358

OPEN

÷ PORTSMOUTH GOLF CENTRE Address: Great Salterns Golf Course, Burrfields Road, Portsmouth, Hants, PO3 5HH Web: portsmouthgolfcentre.co.uk Email: enquiries@ portsmouthgolfcentre.co.uk Telephone: 023 9266 4549

÷ BRAMSHAW GOLF CLUB Address: Clive Bonner, Bramshaw Golf Club, Brook, Lyndhurst, Hampshire, SO43 7HE Website: bramshaw.co.uk Email: clive-bonner@ btconnect.com Telephone: 02380 813434

÷ ROYAL MID-SURREY Address: Old Deer Park, Twickenham Road, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 2SB Web: matthewpaget.co.uk Email: proshop@ matthewpaget.co.uk Telephone: 0208 9390148

MEDWAY GOLF CENTRE Address: Unit 1, 24a Longley Road, Rainham, Gillingham, Kent, ME8 7RU Website: golfgeardirect.co.uk Email: medwaygolf@ btconnect.com Telephone: 01634 262002

CORPORATE GOLF COMPANY Address: Unit 4, Elizabeth Business Park, Tigers Road Wigston, Leics, LE18 4TN Website: genefulton.co.uk Email:gene@genefulton.co.uk Telephone: 07834 029 816 /0116 2785550

OPEN

NCG pp112-113 Stockists Map 19/09/2013 16:42 Page 113

NCG pp115 Lead to Club Golf 20/09/2013 14:05 Page 115

CLUB GOLF section in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

The Finest British knitwear www.glenbraegolf.com

CLUB GOLF Tackling the issues that matter to you Iconic location The opening and closing holes at the Old Course

CLUB GOL F in as sociation

Glenbrae Gwith olf

The finest Britis www.glenb h knitwear raegolf.com

THIS MONTH’S TOP STORY Home of Golf reveals 2014 fees St Andrews Links Trust has announced a small increase in green fee rates for the majority of its seven courses for 2014. There will be a £5 increase in price for five of the seven courses, including the Old Course, which will now cost £160 to play in high season. The Castle Course will remain at the existing price of £120 per round, with the New and Jubilee layouts costing £75 to play. Fees on the Eden and Strathtyrum courses will also increase by £5 to £45 and £30 respectively. The nine-hole Balgove Course sees no increase on the 2013 price and will cost £15 to play.

THE CLEAN UP

THE NEW LAYOUT

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 117

Golspie’s story: Back from the brink

how I can improve their game and help them have more fun.

hat are the best brands that you work with? I like to work with local companies, such as Stromberg (trousers) and Glenbrae (knitwear) as they are both Yorkshire-based. TaylorMade are so innovative and Ping are the custom-fit kings and their after-sales service is second to none. Tour Edge are a little-known brand who have a policy of not paying players to use their clubs so their Bazooka range is fantastic value and really works.

hat makes a good club member? One that gets the most out of being a member by attending functions, playing socially and in competitions, joining committees and patronising the clubhouse and of course the pro shop.

hat are the best three courses in your county? Alwoodley, Ganton and Moortown.

hat annoys you about club golfers? I would be really pleased if more golfers realised the benefits that spending time practising on the range can bring to their game, as well as warming up by hitting a few shots before a round.

hat duties do you perform that your members don’t realise? There are many but the work myself and my two assistants, Joe and Jack, do in the pro shop to make casual and corporate visitors welcome and then see them return year on year is not seen by many members.

hat’s the hardest thing about being a club pro? Trying to be the expert at all things golf. This is why I attend seminars and lectures, there is always something new to learn.

ow were you affected by the weather last year? We are lucky to have a very welldraining course and a great greenkeeping staff so we only lost a couple days. However footfall was down and I have had better years but I am a positive thinker.

o you have involvement in the course set-up and if not do you think you should?

THE PRO

FILES Our regular feature with club pros across the UK continues with John Green from Alwoodley, in north Leeds

Yes I am involved and I appreciate the club giving me the opportunity, plus I really enjoy it.

ow many hours do you work in a typical week? In summer often well over 70 hours, in winter around 50.

hat’s the strangest question you’ve ever been asked? Well here are a few: John, there’s a cow on the 18th green what is the ruling? John, there’s a family fishing on the pond can you ask them to leave? When buying 100 bananas, at a supermarket for a corporate day halfway house, I was asked how long have I kept monkeys!

After having one of my 70-plus hour weeks, being asked by a member if I have just been away on holiday!

hat is the best commercial idea you’ve ever had? No question, it’s employing my wife Gill to do the mountain of business paperwork. I can rely on her and it frees up my time to concentrate on my job. I am also a member of the buying group Foremost, which not only helps with my purchasing power for stock, but also gives me access to a wide range of seminars. Foremost also helped me start the weekly e-mail newsletter I send to my customers, this is a great way to remind golfers who I am and

ow does your golf compare now to when you turned pro? Around the time I turned pro (just after colour TV came in!) I would practise until it was dark and I think that has really set me in good stead. Even though I don’t practice as much as I would like I am more consistent now and less likely to have a big score – I hope!

o you wish you could play more often? Yes definitely but my job always comes first, however I try to play as often as I can and I really enjoy playing Captain Pro and Lady Captain Pro Challenge matches plus I try to arrange games with new members of the club. I like to have a go at qualifying for the Open every year. I know the chances are minute but I still have a dream...

hat part of your job do you most enjoy? No two days are ever the same! Whether it is playing, coaching, fitting, helping members, meeting visitors, organising competitions or being out on the course early and seeing the red kites flying overhead, I feel lucky to be working at such a wonderful place. n Would you like to be our pro for a month? Get in touch by sending an email to editorial@sportspub.co.uk

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 119

119 Pro Files: Members’ oddest requests

18 BRILLIANT

WINTER

OFFERS Terrific deals at courses all over the country – from Irvine to Trethorne – which are in great nick all year round. Have a look at their amazing value...

122 Winter Golf: The best offers around

CLUB GOLF News & Reviews

in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

NORTH WEST Cheshire | Cumbria | Lancashire | Merseyside

Great winter deals at Macclesfield Macclesfield GC have an outstanding range of society and individual visitor winter offers available to take advantage of through the coming months. Contact 01625 423227 for further information.

O N • CO

117

www.glenbraegolf.com

MADE IN THE UK

Victory for Cheshire pair

Tytheringham golfers Mike Harrington and Matt Gillibrand won the Cheshire Foursomes at Crewe GC. The pair prevailed in a card playoff over county veterans Roy Smethurst and Phil Jones after both teams returned scores of 71 and 72. The winners were judged on perfomance over the back nine.

Ashworth retains county trophy Mark Ashworth won the Derek Ingram Trophy for the second year running at Rossendale. The plus two handicapper won the event by two shots.

Lancashire County Golf Union are offering members of affiliated clubs the chance to join the union with a one off life membership fee of £40, or at the reduced rate of £5 per year.

County Champion: West Lancs, Merseyside About West Lancashire is the grandfather of golf in this part of the world, having being founded in 1873 as the first club in the county. Surrounded by more illustrious neighbours such as Royal Liverpool, there is a misguided perception that it is in a second tier of courses. While it may not be showy, this is a terrific course which offers a true links test.

The Course The crumpled, bouncy turf at West Lancs is every bit the equal of that at more celebrated surrounding courses, and the design offers an outstanding challenge. Only one of the par 4s – the last – plays dead straight while the others wind both left and right. Precision is called for over power and there are some intimidating short holes and risk-reward par 5s.

Top Hole The par-4 4th is arguably the pick of the bunch. The approach is angled and plays over punishing rough to a marooned green. Card Wrecker All the holes can be challenging, depending on the wind strength and direction, but the par-4 18th requires two precise long shots to reach the green.

Tourism boost for Liverpool

Lancashire retain county title

One million extra people are set to head to Liverpool next year as the Open Championship and International Festival for Business head to the Merseyside city. The 2014 Open will be played at Royal Liverpool on the Wirral, with many visitors expected to stay in Liverpool city centre for the event. It is hoped that the events will provide a substantial boost to Liverpool’s economy.

Healthy golf drive in Manchester Reductions on Lancs Union membership

Y C HA

CONTACT

t: 0151 924 1075 westlancash ire golf.co.uk p: L23 8SZ

O N • CO

THE STORM STRIKES

about trying to repair the damage. The small team quickly received help from club members and volunteers from other local clubs including Royal Dornoch, Bonar Bridge and Tain. “Initially we started with about a dozen people, but that quickly expanded and before long we had around 200 people helping to clear the debris from the course,” MacDonald said. The aim was to re-open the course as early as possible, but an assessment by the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI) delivered a damning prognosis – that certain parts of the layout were too badly damaged and therefore Golspie would not be fit to open in 2013. MacDonald was advised that the turf on six of the holes needed to be stripped and relaid, something which would have been beyond the means of the small club in terms of both money and equipment. Undeterred by the STRI assessment, the greenkeeping team managed to re-build the 7th tee, adding around 30 yards onto the hole in the process and turning the teeing area from one of the poorest on the course to one of the best in just three weeks. Somewhat remarkably, the course re-opened on May 1 after around 400 hours of additional work had been completed by MacDonald, his three-man team and an army of local volunteers. “We have been operating reduced green fees since the course re-opened while it beds back in. “However, people have been saying that they don’t understand the policy because the greens and fairways on the repaired parts of the course are playing as well as ever,” said MacDonald. All in all, a miraculous recovery for a club that could have, quite literally, gone under.

The finest British knitwear

The Pro Files

in association with Glenbrae Golf

N the night of the December 14, 2012, the head greenkeeper at Golspie GC received a telephone call from the club secretary warning him that his annual leave was about to end. The worst storm witnessed in the area for over a century had breached the sea defences which were built to protect the outer edges of the Highlands links layout, threatening devastating consequences for both the club and the course. Seventy mile an hour winds had combined with low air pressure and a high tide on the east coast of Scotland to create a sudden surge in the sea level, which rose to around three metres above its usual height and completely flooded parts of the course. So when Alexander MacDonald arrived at the club the following morning, he knew that he would have his work cut out if he wanted to save his club from the worst crisis in its 124year history. “We shut down at Christmas for one month anyway, and I was into the first day of my annual leave,” the head greenkeeper said. “Then I received a phone call from the club warning me that the storms were getting worse and breaking the flood barriers. “Over a quarter of a million tonnes of rubble had been forced onto the course, including many of the boulders which had been part of the sea defences, and we had around 12 feet of water sitting across some of the fairways with nowhere for it to drain away. “We lost about half a hectare of land and the 7th tee was completely destroyed.” With just three full-time greenkeeping staff to call upon, MacDonald and his team set

CLUB GOLF

hat makes a good club pro? A love of golf, the ability to get on with people, being a good communicator, diplomacy, patience and much more.

James Tompkinson explains how a small Highlands club recovered from the worst night in its history

BACK FROM THE BRINK

Y C HA

www.glenbraegolf.com

GOLSPIE’S STORY

MADE IN THE UK

The finest British knitwear

Golspie

in association with Glenbrae Golf

CLUB GOLF

NHS staff in Manchester will experience a free golf taster session at Didsbury in October as part of a scheme which is attempting to promote the health benefits associated with playing golf. The event will be run by experienced PGA professional Peter Barber in association with the

136 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

Cheshire County Golf Partnership, who have supported a number of activities involving staff from the NHS in the North West. Research has shown that a full round of golf can burn up to 900 calories as well as working both the heart and lungs in a controlled way.

Get into golf with new Cumbria programmes Four-week beginner golf programmes are now available at Penrith GC and Barrow’s The Fairways as part of a national drive to get more people of all ages playing golf. The courses cost just £20 and all equipment is provided. Visit getintogolf.org

Lancashire retained the Daily Telegraph Northern Counties League salver with a 100 per cent record. The county team maintained their unbeaten record with a superb 15-3 demolition of Northumberland at Southport and Ainsdale. “All our players pulled for each other and I could not have asked for anything more from them,” said winning captain Paul Williams. “We beat Cumbria by the same margin in our opening match and carried that form into each one after that,” he added.

136

North West: Why West Lancs is special

Bridlington Golf Passport 19/09/2013 09:54 Page 1

East Coast Golf Passport PRICES FROZEN FOR 2014 AND BOOKINGS ARE BEING TAKEN NOW FOR 2014 Bridlington and the surrounding coastline proudly boasts five of Yorkshire’s finest golf coures all located withina short distance of each other offering golfers of all abilities an excellent test of golf on five very different and contrasting courses The five clubs have come together to create a new and innovative golf pass which enables visitors to Bridlington and the East Yorkshire area the opportunity to play all five fantastic courses and at the same time enjoying incredible savings of up to half the normal Green Fees.

How to apply for this great deal? Simple, just contact the office at Bridlington Belvedere Golf Club, tel. 01262 606367 between 9am-2pm Monday to Friday or e-mail enquiries@bridlingtongolfclub.co.uk and let us take care of the arrangements for you.**

The Special reduced cost of your passport is; *

£58 for 3 rounds of golf! £70* for 4 rounds of golf! £80* for 5 rounds of golf! ENJOY EXCELLENT SAVINGS!

BRIDLINGTON GOLF CLUB

FILEY GOLF CLUB

FLAMBOROUGH HEAD

Belvedere Road, Bridlington t: 01262 606367 www.bridlingtongolfclub.co.uk

West Avenue, Filey t: 01723 513293 www.fileygolfclub.com

Lighthouse Road, Flamborough t: 01262 850333 www.flamboroughheadgolfclub.co.uk

HORNSEA GOLF CLUB

THE BRIDLINGTON LINKS

Rolston Road, Hornsea t: 01964 534989 www.hornseagolfclub.co.uk

Flamborough Road, Bridlington t: 01262 401584 www.bridlington-links.co.uk

The Revelstoke Hotel In conjunction with Golf Coast Passport 1-3 Flamborough Road, Bridlington YO15 2HU

Three Day Golf Break Only £160.00 Inc. 3 rounds of golf & 2 nights b&b

Four Day Golf Break Only £219.00 Inc. 4 rounds of golf & 3 nights b&b

Five Day Golf Break Only £274.00 Inc. 5 rounds of golf & 4 nights b&b Play your golf at Bridlington Belvedere, Filey, Flamborough Head, Hornsea & Bridlington Links Offer Includes Weekends

Please contact us on 01262 672362

e: info@revelstokehotel.co.uk www.revelstokehotel.co.uk

www.golfcoastpassport.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply **Dates subject to availability ***Offer is not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

NCG pp117 Golspie 20/09/2013 09:51 Page 117

CLUB GOLF

The finest British knitwear

www.glenbraegolf.com

Golspie

in association with Glenbrae Golf

GOLSPIE’S STORY

MADE IN THE UK

BACK FROM THE BRINK James Tompkinson explains how a small Highlands club recovered from the worst night in its history

THE STORM STRIKES

THE CLEAN UP

THE NEW LAYOUT

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 117

DVG-National-Club-Golfer-A4-(ART).pdf

20/09/2013

11:53

Book now for your 2014 Golf Break with De Vere.

Golf Breaks

from

12 locations.19 courses.

PLUS 1 in 12 golfers stay and play for FREE*

per person*

Staverton Park Daventry

The Carrick on Loch Lomond

Slaley Hall Nr Newcastle

The Belfry West Midlands

Carden Park Nr Chester

Mottram Hall Cheshire

Herons’ Reach Blackpool

Dunston Hall Norwich

Belton Woods Nr Grantham

Wychwood Park Nr Crewe

Wokefield Park Reading

Oulton Hall Leeds

CMY

Quote code: NCG13 upon booking. For more information

0844 980 8060

golf@devere.co.uk | devere.co.uk/golf/golfbreak

Golf. Like never before.

*Full Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability and change. New bookings only. Local terms and conditions apply. Please see website for further details. From £85pp is valid on a Sunday evening (Sunday Driver) - Prices may vary at each hotel - Prices from £79pp at Staverton Park, Wokefield Park and Wychwood Park

NCG pp119 Pro Files 20/09/2013 09:52 Page 119

CLUB GOLF

The finest British knitwear

www.glenbraegolf.com

The Pro Files

in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

hat makes a good club pro? A love of golf, the ability to get on with people, being a good communicator, diplomacy, patience and much more.

how I can improve their game and help them have more fun.

hat are the best three courses in your county? Alwoodley, Ganton and Moortown.

hat’s the hardest thing about being a club pro? Trying to be the expert at all things golf. This is why I attend seminars and lectures, there is always something new to learn.

o you have involvement in the course set-up and if not do you think you should?

THE PRO

FILES Our regular feature with club pros across the UK continues with John Green from Alwoodley, in north Leeds

Yes I am involved and I appreciate the club giving me the opportunity, plus I really enjoy it.

ow many hours do you work in a typical week? In summer often well over 70 hours, in winter around 50.

After having one of my 70-plus hour weeks, being asked by a member if I have just been away on holiday!

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 119

Masters Promo Open 19/09/2013 09:55 Page 2

Golfer NATIONAL

CLUB

GO TO THE

2014 MASTERS Enjoy a week at Augusta that you will never forget

Ever fancied going to the Masters at Augusta but didn't think it was possible? Well, think again. We can arrange the whole trip for you – from flights and accommodation to those all-important entry badges. This trip of a lifetime could be the perfect way to celebrate everything from a 50th birthday to your wedding anniversary. It could even be the stag do to end all stag dos, and all you have to do is make your way to the airport. We have devised a selection of superb Masters hospitality packages for 2014 that are brilliant value for money. With prices starting at just £2,295 per person, you could watch Adam Scott defend his Green Jacket for less money than five nights in a posh London hotel.

Where will I stay? Columbia – a town an hour away from Augusta. At the event, your base will be the 1018 Club, 400 yards from Magnolia Lane. Are flights included? No, due to the diverse needs of our guests. We can book your flights if you need us to. Which airports can I fly from? The two most popular are Manchester and Heathrow. How long is the flight? From Manchester, the flight to Philadelphia is eight hours. Then there is a 70-minute hop to Columbia.

How much golf can I watch? The decision is yours - our packages range from one day at the course to four but we can accommodate any request. Can I play golf when I'm there? Of course - let us know at the time of booking and we’ll organise it for you. How much is it going to cost me? Prices start from £2,295 per person. We require half of the money up front. How much spending money will I need? Once you are out there, drinks and food are free in the hospitality area so, in theory, you don’t have to spend a penny more.

Call 01132 893 979 email masters@sportspub.co.uk or visit

www.nationalclubgolfer.com/masters 2 AUGUST 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

Masters Promo Open 19/09/2013 09:55 Page 3

THE JUNIPER TOUR £2,295per person*

Arriving on Friday this tour includes viewing of the alwaysexciting final round, transport to and from the course, three nights' accommodation in the Marriott Hotel, and full hospitality at our exclusive venue at Northwood. What the price includes: • A pass to see the final round of the 2014 Masters • Transport to and from Augusta • Three nights four-star hotel accommodation • Hospitality at the 1018 Club • Golf on Saturday can be arranged • Full itinerary and event documentation *based on twin sharing, flights not included

THE MAGNOLIA TOUR £3,695per person*

You will arrive on Thursday for the first of your four nights' accommodation at the Marriott Hotel, Columbia. The Magnolia package includes viewing of the tournament on Friday and Sunday with the option of playing golf on the Saturday. What the price includes: • Live action Friday and Sunday at the Masters • Transport to and from Augusta • Four nights four-star hotel accommodation • Hospitality at the 1018 Club • Golf on Saturday can be arranged • Full itinerary and event documentation *based on twin sharing, flights not included

THE REDBUD TOUR £4,995per person*

THE HOLLY TOUR £6,695per person*

You will arrive on the Tuesday April for six nights' accommodation and three days at Augusta. Golf on Thursday and Saturday at top quality local courses is included. What the price includes: • Live golf on Wednesday, Friday & Sunday at the Masters • Transport to and from Augusta • Six nights of four-star hotel accommodation • Hospitality at the 1018 Club • Golf on Thursday at Woodcreek GC with transfers • Golf on Saturday at Hounds Lake with transfers • Full itinerary and event documentation *based on twin sharing, flights not included

The golf enthusiast's dream package. You will arrive on the Monday and stay at the Sheraton Hotel for seven nights, viewing the golf on four days and playing on Tuesday where many of the players live and practice during Masters week. What the price includes: • Live golf on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday • Transport to and from Augusta • Seven nights of four-star hotel accommodation • Hospitality at the 1018 Club • Golf on Tuesday and Thursday, with transfers • Full itinerary and event documentation *based on twin sharing, flights not included www.nationalclubgolfer.com | AUGUST 2013 3

NCG pp122-123 Lead to Winter Golf 20/09/2013 13:33 Page 122

NCG pp122-123 Lead to Winter Golf 20/09/2013 13:33 Page 123

18 BRILLIANT

WINTER

OFFERS Terrific deals at courses all over the country – from Irvine to Trethorne – which are in great nick all year round. Have a look at their amazing value...

NCG pp124 Club Golf Ads 20/09/2013 13:35 Page 124

CLUB GOLF

124 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp125 Winter Golf 20/09/2013 13:35 Page 125

CLUB GOLF

The finest British knitwear

www.glenbraegolf.com

Winter Golf

in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

ALRESFORD, Hampshire

BRIDLINGTON, East Yorkshire

BRIDLINGTON LINKS, E. Yorks

The location Close to the M3, around 15 minutes away from Winchester. The course Alresford was founded in 1890 and extended in 1993. Set on rolling downland on the slopes of Tichborne Down, the course is an interesting and challenging layout with tree-lined fairways and a variety of cleverly-positioned bunkers. The layer of natural chalk underfoot ensures any excess moisture is easily absorbed and means the course is playable throughout the year. The deal Society packages including coffee and bacon rolls from £25pp after December 1.

The location To the south of Bridlington town centre. The course Bridlington was founded in 1905 and sits tight to the coastline. The course itself is an easy walking, 6,638-yard layout which contains some of the finest greens in the area. In recent years the fairways have been made tighter and the irrigation has been improved by the planting of 3,000 trees and the creation of six water features. The difficult holes are cleverly dispersed throughout the course. The deal Part of the East Coast Golf Passport scheme. For stay-and-play deals, visit golfcoastpassport.co.uk

The location Four miles north of Bridlington town centre. The course Measuring 6,719 yards from the back tees, Bridlington Links is a terrific clifftop course that offers stunning views over Bridlington Bay and the town itself. As with all good links courses, the turf is both fast and firm, boasting a sandy texture that lends itself nicely to crisp, clean ball striking. The sea is never far from sight and when the wind gets up the course is extremely tough. The deal Part of the East Coast Golf Passport scheme. For stay-and-play deals, visit golfcoastpassport.co.uk

FILEY, North Yorkshire

FLAMBOROUGH HEAD, E. Yorks

FULFORD, North Yorkshire

The location Eight miles south of Scarborough town centre. The course Filey was established in 1897 and the original course was situated on land to the north of the old East Yorkshire fishing town. The course moved to its present site on the south side of town two years later. The design of the ‘new links’ is credited to James Braid. Close proximity to the coastline means that the wind often comes into play. The last three holes are known as the best on the course. The deal Part of the East Coast Golf Passport scheme. For stay-and-play deals, visit golfcoastpassport.co.uk

The location Six miles east of Bridlington town centre. The course While not the longest by modern standards, this 6,198-yard clifftop links layout features undulating terrain and requires more than just long driving. This becomes evident as early as the par-4 4th, which requires two solid strikes to reach the green. The putting surface is set on two levels and features a hollow at the back and a slope at the front to punish anything lacking length. The deal Part of the East Coast Golf Passport scheme. For stay-and-play deals, visit golfcoastpassport.co.uk

The location Just off the A64, close to the city centre and York University. The course Fulford used to be home to the Benson & Hedges Cup – one of the most popular events on the European Tour calendar. This York course is also famous for the image of a young Bernhard Langer perched in the ash tree at the side of the 17th green after his approach became lodged in its branches. The dense population of trees around this heathland course shape the fairways. The deal October rates from £45pp, winter rates available from £30pp when quoting National Club Golfer.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 125

NCG pp126 Club Golf Ads 20/09/2013 13:34 Page 126

CLUB GOLF Near Wareham

Let us organise your bespoke golfing break

GOLF G OLF & CO COUNT NTRY C CLUB

FRANCE • BELGIUM • SPAIN • ITALY Contact Bill Anslow Tel: 01206 841994 • Fax: 01206 841995 Email: bill@greyowlgolf.com • Web: www.greyowlgolf.com Champs de Bataille - France

FREE GOLF

GOLD

AWARD

5 STAR ccccc COMMENDED LUXURY LOG HOMES & GOLF LODGE HOTEL Close to Poole & Bournemouth • 27 Holes of Championship Golf • Dinner, Bed, Breakfast & Free Golf from £67.95pppn

12 Luxury Detached Log Homes to rent. Min 2night, sleeps 8, sauna, log stoves.

You won’t be disappointed! CALL TODAY 01929 472 244

FOR INSIGHT AND OPINION ON THE GAME OF GOLF, THERE'S ONLY ONE PLACE TO LOOK...

Golfer NATIONAL

CLUB

.COM

GREY OWL GOLF

5 Star British Tourist Board Venue

White Rose Golf Breaks Unbeatable golf breaks in Yorkshire

Great courses, warm hospitality, superb value. Tel: 01943 609888 2014 Spring Golf Breaks 2 Day Golf Break £85pp 3 Day Golf Break £159pp

FREE Golf & Hotel for organiser of 12+ booked for Mar & Apr 14

126 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

E-mail peter@whiterosegolfbreaks.co.uk Visit our Website at www.whiterosegolfbreaks.co.uk

NCG pp127 Winter Golf 20/09/2013 13:39 Page 127

CLUB GOLF

The finest British knitwear

www.glenbraegolf.com

Winter Golf

in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

GULLANE, East Lothian

HORNSEA, East Yorkshire

IRVINE, Ayrshire

The location 20 miles west of Edinburgh, 10 miles from the A1. The course With three outstanding courses located on a stretch of glorious coastline, Gullane is a golfer’s paradise. No.1 is the best of the bunch, climbing up to the crest of Gullane Hill before a succession of outstanding holes tumble downwards. The walk up the last fairway provides one of the definitive experiences in golf. No.2 is also a fine track in its own right, with No.3 offering fun golf for all. The deal Play No.1 from just £50, No.2 from £35 and No.3 from £25 with selected tee times from October 1.

The location In the East Riding of Yorkshire, 16 miles from Hull. The course Hornsea is something of a hybrid course. The terrain is undulating parkland, but the layout and design has a traditional links feel. Founded in 1898, the club moved to its present site in 1908 and the layout has been modified by both Dr Alister MacKenzie and James Braid. The course is known for the quality of its final six holes, which are widely considered among the finest in the county. The deal Part of the East Coast Golf Passport scheme. For stay-and-play deals, visit golfcoastpassport.co.uk

The location On the west coast of Scotland, 12 miles from Kilmarnock. The course Irvine is not quite a seaside course, but the land is close enough to the coast for the turf to boast that sandy texture which is such a delight to strike the ball from. Established in 1887, the club has hosted many events, including the Amateur Championship. Its great strength is the variety of the holes, which are quirky in places and very solid in others. The deal Winter ticket is priced at £275, and offers six days golf a week (Saturdays excluded) from through to March 31.

MACCLESFIELD, Cheshire

MANOR HOUSE, Devon

HOLLINWELL, Nottinghamshire

The location Close to Macclesfield town centre, 20 miles south of Manchester. The course Of all the Cheshire golf clubs, only Royal Liverpool boasts a longer history than Macclesfield. Situated high on the hills, the course boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Macclesfield may be on the short side, but it is no pushover. There are only two par 5s on the course, but get things wrong at any of the four par 3s and you will damage your card considerably. The deal A twoball for £27 or a fourball for £50, both including a bacon sandwich and coffee, from October to April.

The location Near Okehampton and Dartmoor, 25 miles from Exeter. The course Nestled in the foothills of the Dartmoor National Park on a 600-acre complex are the Manor House and Ashbury Hotels. With golf on offer over 99 holes – along with many other sport, leisure and craft facilities – this is a unique place for a golf holiday or short break. The courses occupy a light woodland and parkland setting with many natural and strategically-placed hazards. The deal Four-night November breaks available from £175pp. Contact the club for further details.

The location Around 14 miles north of Nottingham near Kirkby-in-Ashfield. The course Notts (Hollinwell) offers one of the finest examples of heathland golf in Britain, rivalling many of the more famous Surrey courses of this style. There are few sterner tests in England playing from the Championship tees – 7,250 yards with an SSS of 76 against a par of 72. The club has hosted many top amateur events, including the English Amateur and the Brabazon Trophy. The deal Get a fourball for £240, including a one-course meal, from November 1.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 127

NCG pp128 Club Golf Ads 20/09/2013 13:31 Page 128

CLUB GOLF

PINE R IDGE GOLF CLUB

ABERSOCH GOLF CLUB

Situated in the picturesque North West Wales, Abersoch Golf Club enjoys stunning views across the bay to the Snowdonia range and is protected from the harsh North East winds by the mountains and the Llyn peninsula.

From late October through to early spring you can play a round for just £25 - 7 days a week. Add in a welcoming and friendly clubhouse with bar and restaurant and you have the perfect package for out-of-season golf.

Pine Ridge is a venue for all seasons. Whether playing golf, bringing the family ten-pin bowling, planning a special event, or simply coming up for a relaxing drink or meal, you will always find a friendly welcome.

Winter Society Days from £25pp 4 ball for £100 Weekends - Play from £21pp with our Just Play Discount Card Pine Ridge Golf Club Old Bisley Road | Frimley | Camberley | Surrey | GU16 9NX T: 01276 675444 | E: pineridge-sales@crown-golf.co.uk www.pineridgegolf.co.uk

128 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

www.abersochgolf.co.uk | 01758 712622

NCG pp129 Winter Golf 20/09/2013 13:57 Page 129

CLUB GOLF

The finest British knitwear

www.glenbraegolf.com

Winter Golf

in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

PRESTATYN, North Wales

SEASCALE, Cumbria

TORWOODLEE, Scottish Borders

The location 25 miles from the EnglandWales border on the north coastline. The course Prestatyn is the most northerly course in Wales, and as such enjoys a temperate climate which means that superb greens are virtually guaranteed all year round. The historic links is easy walking but can show its teeth when the south-westerly wind whips in off the Irish Sea. Firm, fast greens and a grandstand closing hole have made the course one of the most popular in the region. The deal Winter memberships available from October 1-March 31 for £210. Winter green fees from £15pp per round.

The location To the west of the Lake District, 15 miles from Whitehaven. The course Providing a tough yet vintage links, Seascale is a golfer’s golf club. Sitting in an unrivalled position overlooking the Irish Sea, the course offers wonderful views of the Isle of Man, Lake District and southern tip of Scotland. Like all good links courses, when the wind gets up here, the difficulty of the course increases dramatically. The course hosted the 2012 English Amateur. The deal Winter rounds available from £20, late tee times from £10. A Saturday fourball is available for £80, saving £20.

The location Minutes from the A7 and close to Galashiels. The course Torwoodlee is a picturesque 6,021-yard par-69 parkland steeped in over 100 years of history. Flanked by the River Gala and set among a mix of mature woodland and rolling parkland, it is one of the most challenging courses in the Borders. The layout utilises the natural contours of the land exquisitely and boasts some stunning views over the surrounding countryside landscape. The deal Get a fourball for £80, or £100 including buggies. Green fees from £32pp, day tickets from £42pp.

TRETHORNE, Cornwall

WALSALL, Staffordshire

WEST LANCASHIRE, Merseyside

The location Near Launceston on the Devon-Cornwall border. The course Offering a challenging and beautifully maintained course, Trethorne is the perfect place to escape the pressures of modern life. It is located just half an hour’s drive from both the north and south coast. The course is a challenging par 71 that contains lots of water and trees. The layout has been enhanced by a redesign over the last six years, and the benefits are clear to see. The deal £18 during the week, or £25 all day. £24 Saturday and Sunday before 2pm or £34 for an all-weekend ticket.

The location Eight miles north of Birmingham, outside Walsall town centre. The course Walsall was originally founded in 1907 and still boasts many of the features that characterised Dr Alister Mackenzie's original design. The easywalking championship course is home to tree-lined fairways that demand accuracy off the tee, and even the best drive does not guarantee an easy approach shot. Each and every green on the 6,250-yard par-70 layout is guarded by bunkers. The deal Get a winter fourball from £23pp, or two fourballs for £22 per player. Play as a threeball and it’s £24 each.

The location 10 miles north of Liverpool City Centre on the west coast. The course The oldest course in the county, West Lancashire dates back to 1873 when it was opened by a group of Scottish businessmen. All the holes here have the potential to unsettle even the best players when factors such as wind strength and direction are taken into account. The design is simple yet solid, and this course should be celebrated as one of the best links tracks around. The deal £200 per fourball from November 1-March 14 including soup, sandwiches and coffee.

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 129

NCG pp130 Club Golf SW 20/09/2013 10:19 Page 130

Dorset junior Joe Taylor met golfing legend Peter Alliss last month to receive his Alliss Young Masters trophy. The Isle of Purbeck youngster won the event back in April at Ferndown.

Cornwall youngster continues to develop Current Cornwall Junior champion Harry Hall continues to develop into a future ‘one to watch’ after he was picked to represent England Under-16s against Wales.

Second win for impressive Yorke Cornwall Golf Union County champion Joe Yorke has won the Cornish Closed Championship over the Jack Nicklaus course at St Mellion. Yorke won his maiden county title in May, and secured his second impressive win by a two-shot margin from a field of 71.

CONTACT

t: 01237 4 73817 royalnorth devon golfclub.c o.uk p: EX39 1H D

M Junior meets Alliss

Y C HA M O N • CO

O N • CO

New Cornwall champion Bude & North Cornwall’s Mike Wigley is the new Cornwall County Seniors champion after winning the tournament at St Mellion by four shots from former winner Mike Marshall.

Y C HA

MADE IN THE UK

SOUTH WEST

News & Reviews

in association with Glenbrae Golf

CLUB GOLF

County Champion: Royal North Devon, Devon About Royal North Devon holds a special place in English golf, as the first course to be built in the country. In 1860, Old Tom Morris travelled to Devon from Prestwick to design a proper course at Westward Ho! The history of the course is displayed in the clubhouse museum, which is worth a visit in its own right and should not be missed.

The Course Royal North Devon provides links golf as it was played when the game was born. It is impossible to collect a full impression without playing here on several occasions. The landscape is wide open, and in that sense has shades of the Old Course. Yet the wooden-slatted bunkers – including an enormous specimen on the 4th, Cape – and spiky grasses bring a unique feel.

Top Hole The 9th should be a birdie chance at under 500 yards, but the combination of a small bunker in front of what seems an unfeasibly shallow green complicates matters. Card Wrecker By contrast, the 555-yard par-5 17th is daunting from the moment you step on the tee. Be happy with par on this uncompromising hole.

Devon men set new county record

Youngsters play with stars Two young golfers from Gloucestershire played alongside European Tour professionals Chris Wood and Chris Lloyd in an exhibition match at Forest Hills. Teenager Joe Harvey and Harrison Ottley-Woodd were the leading players on their respective county average tables at the cut-off point in July, and therefore earned the chance to experience playing with the full European Tour pros.

Matthews wins English Par-3 title Gloucestershire’s Jo Matthews secured victory in the English Women’s Par-3 Championship at The Warwickshire. The Shirehampton Park member won the tournament with a twoshot margin over the venue’s Castle Course. She follows in the footsteps of her fellow

130 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

club member Mary Groves, who won the event last year. Matthews said: “It was an unexpectedly pleasurable day, one of those days when things go right. One of our ladies won last year and we went back so she could defend her title. I’m sure we’ll try and go next year.”

Fourth Order of Merit victory for Day Henbury’s Nick Day has won the Gloucestershire Order of Merit title for the fourth time. He managed to secure enough points in the penultimate event of the season at his home club to add this year’s title to his previous victories in 2004, 2010 and 2011.

Devon became the first ever county to reach the finals of all three male county championship finals this year. Teams from the county reached the finals of the boys’, men’s and seniors’ events. “To get to three men’s county finals in the same year is quite an achievement,” said Devon county secretary John Hirst. “This is the peak because the county team can’t go any further. It is their pinnacle and is really a great team effort. This also represents a huge effort that goes on behind the scenes.”

NCG pp131 Club Golf SW Ads 20/09/2013 09:53 Page 131

CLUB GOLF

BOWOOD PARK HOTEL U

R .C

OM n N AT I

2 Day Golf Break to include: ON

L U OM n N AT I

AL I ON M n NA T

R .C

100

BRITA I N’S BEST

R.CO

RESIDENTIAL GOLF BREAKS 2013 2012

Available midweek or weekends

UNDER £50

COURSES

1 Nights Bed & Breakfast • 1, Three Course Evening meal • 2 Rounds of Golf November: £65pp December: £59pp

3 Day Golf Break to include:

R .C

O M n NA T

I ON

2 Nights Bed & Breakfast • 2, Three Course Evening Meals • 3 Rounds of Golf November: £105pp December: £99pp Available midweek or weekends

4 Day Golf Break to include: Prices frozen for 2014

3 Nights Bed & Breakfast • 3, Three Course Evening Meals • 4 Rounds of Golf November: £145pp December: £139pp Available midweek or weekends • All package tariffs above are based on 2 people sharing a twin/double room.

Additional golf break benefits in 2013: Organiser FREE OF CHARGE for groups of 16 and above

• Single room upgrades may incur a per night supplement.

• Superior room upgrades incur a supplement of £10 per person per night. • Buggy hire is available at £22 per round or £33 per day. Advanced booking is advisable.

BOOKING HOTLINE

01840 213017 Bowood Park Hotel & Golf Club, Lanteglos, Camelford, Cornwall PL32 9RF For further information please visit us at www.bowood-park.co.uk or contact us at golf@bowood-park.co.uk or 01840 213017

@bowoodparkgolf

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 131

NCG pp132 Club Golf SE 20/09/2013 10:20 Page 132

CLUB GOLF News & Reviews

in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

New signature hole at Blue Mountain

Y C HA

CONTACT

Y C HA

County Champion: The Shire, Hertfordshire

Chelsfield Lakes junior Albert Whymark recently became the youngest player in the club’s history to score a hole in one. The 10 year old aced the 205-yard par-3 2nd in a junior competition.

About Simply mention the name Seve Ballesteros in relation to any golf course in the world and you know that course will be something special. As the only course in the UK designed by the great man, The Shire holds an unrivalled position in UK golf.

Regional senior wins

The Course The 18-hole Masters course is The

Hampshire’s Kevin Quinn and Kent’s Julie Ballard won the Senior Men and Women’s South Regional Tournaments at Liphook. Ballard is a previous winner but this was Quinn’s first victory.

Shire’s main attraction and is set up like no other. Six par 5s, six par 4s and six par 3s lie in wait, with no two consecutive holes having the same par. Top Hole The signature hole comes at the 18th, which has an S-shaped lake built around the green in honour of Seve. The lake is blind on the approach so take caution, although

Historic international pick for Surrey player Sunningdale’s Tony Patterson became the first Surrey county player to represent Scotland when he played in September’s Senior Home Internationals Tournament at Royal County Down.

it is fun to sit in the clubhouse after a round and watch others suffer the misfortune of unexpectedly finding water instead of the green. Card Wrecker The 180-yard par-3 1st is played to a green surrounded by water on all sides and requires pinpoint accuracy from the opening shot. It is easy to score heavily here and start with a setback.

LET Access win for Taylor

Judge rejects plans for new Surrey course

Woburn’s Lauren Taylor has become the third amateur to win on the Ladies European Tour Access Series. The 19 year old won the Norrporten Ladies Open in Sweden to join Pamela Pretswell and Linn Andersson as amateurs to have won on the LET Access Series. Taylor was on a golf scholarship at Baylor University, but will now attempt to qualify for the full LET next year.

Golf psychology helps GCSE students A group of secondary school students gained improved GCSE results thanks to a golf psychology technique. Nineteen students at Colfe’s School in London saw improvements of up to 75 per cent based on mock exam results. Created by PGA Golf psychology consultant Jon

132 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

Finn, the training uses the latest understanding of neuroscience and psychology to teach mental skills like concentration, motivation and confidence. They have been applied to golf through the Pre-Shot Programme, which helps players focus and relax on the course.

Youngster shoots ace

t: 020 844 1 7649 theshirelon don.com p: EN5 4R E

O N • CO

Blue Mountain have announced that they will redesign their 13th hole to create a new signature hole for the course. The layout at the Berkshire club will be reworked to reduce the risk of golf balls being hit onto the nearby road.

Performance Institute planned for London The London Golf Club has announced plans to build the UK’s first European Tour Performance Centre complete with nine-hole course. The venue will use the latest technology to develop coaching and sports science at all levels of the game.

Plans to turn the former home of Lord Beaverbrook into an exclusive hotel and golf club have been rejected by a high court judge. Planning permission had been granted by Mole Valley District Council but was objected to by residents and environmental campaigners. Mr Justice HaddonCave questioned the need for another private golf course in Surrey. “The more exclusive the golf club, the less public need is demonstrated. Pure private ‘demand’ is antithetical to public ‘need’,” he said.

NCG pp133 Club Golf SE Ads 20/09/2013 09:54 Page 133

CLUB GOLF

ALRESFORD

Cheriton Road, Tichborne Down, Alresford, Hants. SO24 0PN

‘Enjoyable golf and a great deal more’

www.alresfordgolf.co.uk

GOLF CLUB

01962 733746

Welwyn Garden City Golf Club 2013/14 SOCIETY PACKAGES Now booking Winter Packages From £18 per person Nov 13 – Mar 14 quote WGCWinter13 for exclusive discount. Firm, true greens during the Winter due to fantastic course and greens drainage.

• A challenging and picturesque downland course to suit all levels • Regular county tournament venue • Societies and visitors welcome

• Winter Society Packages from £25pp (Mon–Fri)

Play the best kept course in Hertfordshire – Book Now! Also booking for 2014

WELWYN GARDEN CITY GOLF CLUB

GOLF BREAKS from £72pp DBB & 2 Rounds

WINTER SOCIETY DAYS From £18.50pp No temporary greens or tees

Mannicotts | High Oaks Road | Welwyn Garden City | Herts | AL8 7BP

MAIDSTONE ROAD, HEADCORN, KENT TN27 9PT

www.wgcgc.co.uk | secretary@wgcgc.co.uk

01622 890866 www.weald-of-kent.co.uk

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 133

NCG pp134 Club Golf NE 20/09/2013 12:18 Page 134

CLUB GOLF News & Reviews

in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

NORTH EAST Cleveland | Durham | North’land | Tyne & Wear | Yorkshire

Sandburn Hall talent day proves a success

Y C HA M

CONTACT

M Saltburn recently welcomed 19 teams of north-eastern industrialists from the ChariTees tournament. The golf day and auction raised over £6000 for local charities.

Wath are champions Wath triumphed in the Yorkshire Union of Golf Clubs Team Championship at Garforth. Represented by Ian Clarke, Neil Windle, Nick Poppleton and Gary Fulwood, Wath secured the win by nine shots over secondplaced Wike Ridge.

Y C HA

Teesside charities benefit from golf day

Rain forces early wins in Senior Regional event Jim Butler won the Senior Northern Regional tournament after rain forced play to be abandoned after the first round at Pannal. The Kirbymoorside player scored 41 points.

t: 01289 3 87256 goswicklin ksgc.co.uk p: TD15 2R W

O N • CO

The Yorkshire Union of Golf Clubs recently held a ‘talent identification day’ at Sandburn Hall with great success. Twenty-six boys received tips and advice from three Yorkshire coaches through the day.

County Champion: Goswick, Northumberland About A championship course in every sense of the word, Goswick is situated on sublime linksland just six miles south of the beautiful and historic town of Berwick upon Tweed and just an hour from Newcastle and Edinburgh. The Course This James Braid masterpiece is widely acknowledged as a truly

classic links layout, so much so, that the R&A has chosen it as a regional Open qualifying course. Set among stunning Northumberland coastal scenery, the 6,803-yard layout is a terrific test from start to finish and is very rarely affected by the weather so plays well all year round. Top Hole The 14th, Dune, is a beauty, with

its green sitting in a natural shelter. You must find the fairway to have a view of the flag for your approach. Card Wrecker Care must be taken at the 1st, which doglegs right around the only copse of trees on the course. The temptation is to take aim at the green and cut the corner but this brings out of bounds into play. Play safely up the left is our advice.

Malton and Norton star wins sixth event

Yorkshire’s Parry keeps card Harrogate’s John Parry has enjoyed a successful summer on the European Tour and will keep his card for next season. A season’s best fourth place at the Wales Open took Parry’s earnings over the £315,000 mark and propelled him into the top 60 tour players. “Retaining my card was my aim, and it’s not easy because you don’t get into many of the big money tournaments,” he said.

Rudding Park launch new golf school

Leeds Cup for Selby pro

Rudding Park has launched its new Residential Golf School. The school offers golfers the chance to improve their game and experience the UK’s number one hotel according to TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards. The programme will offer structured two,

Selby professional Nick Ludwell claimed victory in the coveted Leeds Cup at De Vere Oulton Hall. The 41-year-old former European Tour pro won the event for the first time despite competing for the last two decades. It is the oldest professional trophy, and was first won in 1902 by Harry Vardon.

134 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

three, and five-day courses which will work on all aspects of a player’s game. Commenting on the launch, Rudding Park head professional Craig Jones said: “The school is already proving popular due to the combination of the state-of-the-art facilities and luxurious four-star hotel.”

Malton and Norton’s Chris Halley won a remarkable sixth event on this year’s Yorkshire Order of Merit with victory in the Mackenzie Salver at Fulford. This victory adds to previous wins in the Auchterlonie Spoon, the Cleveland Salver, the Pannal Rose Bowl, the Oakdale Acorn and the Moor Allerton Amateur Classic. Halley is also the reigning Yorkshire amateur champion and made the quarter-finals of the English Amateur at Frilford Heath. “It’s been my most successful year by far,” he said.

NCG pp135 Club Golf NE Ads 20/09/2013 10:29 Page 135

CLUB GOLF

THE FULFORD (YORK) GOLF CLUB 1906 – 2013

OCTOBER RATES Available from £45pp Packages also available

WINTER 2013/14 Selected dates available now - from £30pp Please quote National Club Golfer to secure these rates. Visit our website for last minute deals and internet bookings

www.fulfordgolfclub.co.uk Contact Gary / Fiona for further information

01904 413 579 info@fulfordgolfclub.co.uk

MOOR ALLERTON GOLF CLUB Coal Road, Wike, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS17 9NH

4-BALL FROM £100

SOCIETY PACKAGES FROM £25PP CALL NOW TO BOOK A GREAT DAY OUT

27 GLORIOUS HOLES STATE OF THE ART PERFORMANCE CENTRE

0113 266 5209 www.magc.co.uk www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 135

NCG pp136 Club Golf NW 20/09/2013 12:46 Page 136

CLUB GOLF News & Reviews

in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

NORTH WEST Cheshire | Cumbria | Lancashire | Merseyside

Great winter deals at Macclesfield

O N • CO

M Mark Ashworth won the Derek Ingram Trophy for the second year running at Rossendale. The plus two handicapper won the event by two shots.

Lancashire County Golf Union are offering members of affiliated clubs the chance to join the union with a one off life membership fee of £40, or at the reduced rate of £5 per year.

Lancashire retain county title

Tourism boost for Liverpool One million extra people are set to head to Liverpool next year as the Open Championship and International Festival for Business head to the Merseyside city. The 2014 Open will be played at Royal Liverpool on the Wirral, with many visitors expected to stay in Liverpool city centre for the event. It is hoped that the events will provide a substantial boost to Liverpool’s economy.

Healthy golf drive in Manchester Reductions on Lancs Union membership

Y C HA

Ashworth retains county trophy

CONTACT

t: 0151 92 4 1075 westlanca shire golf.co.uk p: L23 8SZ

Victory for Cheshire pair

Y C HA M O N • CO

Macclesfield GC have an outstanding range of society and individual visitor winter offers available to take advantage of through the coming months. Contact 01625 423227 for further information.

136 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp137 Club Golf NW Ads 20/09/2013 10:31 Page 137

CLUB GOLF

Seascale Golf Club

Macclesfield Golf Club Established 1889

Welcomes Winter Golfers Wiinter Packages available (From October to April)

2 Ball including Bacon Roll/Coffee £27 4 Ball including Bacon Roll/Coffee £50

For Details Contact: Bob Littlewood 01625 423227 or E Mail: secretary@maccgolfclub.co.uk

Golfer NATIONAL

Winter 2013/14 Rates

4 Ball Winter Warmer

(1 Nov - 31 Mar)

18 holes – Soup & Sandwiches or Bacon Butty Tea/Coffee £80 (Mon-Fri)

Mon - Fri: Round £20.00 Sat, Sun & B.H: Round £25.00 Late Start Deals (after 12.00) from just £10.00

Monthly Open Texas Scrambles £50.00 per team

All subject to availability and prior booking Call us for more details of all our special packages

Tel: 019467 28202 Email: seascalegolfclub@gmail.com Visit our website: www.seascalegolfclub.co.uk THE BANKS, SEASCALE, CUMBRIA CA20 1QL

CLUB

CLUBGOLF

Are you a North West club? Want to appear in our new regional directory? • Attract new members • Attract societies from nearby clubs • Attract visiting parties fromfurther afield

Call 0113 289 3979 or email info@sportspub.co.uk

1st NOVEMBER 13 - 1st MARCH 14 (WEEKDAY ONLY)

ONLY £200 per fourball

– includes soup, sandwiches & coffee

2014 R&A Junior Open Venue

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 137

NCG pp138 Club Golf EM 20/09/2013 12:53 Page 138

CLUB GOLF News & Reviews

in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

Duo win Ping event

Y C HA M

CONTACT

M New Mills is the latest Derbyshire club to be awarded the GolfMark award, which recognises clubs who work to improve junior and beginner facilities.

Ely pro shares honours in home Pro-Am Ely City professional Andrew George shot a three-under 69 to tie for first place alongside PGA Seniors Tour player Mark Stokes in the club’s annual ProAm event.

Lost City Adventure Golf opens in Nottingham A new adventure golf centre has opened in Nottingham as the first venue of its kind in the East Midlands. The Lost City Adventure Golf centre features two 18-hole courses with features such as talking Inca statues!

Y C HA

New Mills wins GolfMark award

©Leaderboard

t: 01623 7 53 225 nottsgolfclu b.co.uk p: NG17 7 QR

O N • CO

Karen Hughes and Elaine Ducker won the Plate Final of the Ping Fourball Betterball tournament at Gainsborough. The pair came through an initial entry of around 17,500 women from 825 clubs.

County Champion: Hollinwell, Nottinghamshire About Those who find their way to Hollinwell know they have arrived at a special place from the moment they turn the final bend on the long driveway to the club and see a magnificent view of the course and imposing clubhouse ahead of them. The club has hosted many top amateur events, including the English Amateur on four occasions and the Brabazon Trophy on three.

The Course Set in the rolling hills of North Nottinghamshire in the heart of Robin Hood County, Hollinwell offers one of the finest examples of traditional heathland golf in Britain, rivalling many of the famous Surrey courses of this style. There are few sterner tests in England playing from the Championship tees – 7,250 yards with an SSS of 76 and a par of 72.

Top Hole The 240-yard par-313th is the longest par 3 on the course and offers a fine view of the green from the elevated tee. Card wrecker The par-4 15th is a seriously tough test. Uphill all the way, if the drive seems hard then wait for the second, which must find a raised green that sits in the hillside.

Cambridge GC closes

Youngster secures trio of wins Lincolnshire’s Jordan Wrisdale won the Junior Champion of Champions title at Woodhall Spa, his third victory in nine days. The 17 year old from Boston won the event by a shot to add the Champion of Champions title to the Lincolnshire Open and Midlands Champion of Champions titles he had won in the previous week. “This means a lot,” he said. “I would love to get back into the England set-up.”

Order of Merit award for Notts’ Peters Nottinghamshire’s Alex Peters has been crowned England’s best female amateur after winning the England Golf Order of Merit title. Peters claimed the title by the smallest of margins from fellow international Sarah Jane Boyd. She was runner-up in both the English Amateur

138 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

and Welsh Strokeplay , reached the last 16 in the British Amateur and represented GB&I in the Vagliano Trophy. “It’s a big thing to win because it shows that all my hard work has paid off,” she said. Peters will remain amateur and hopes to play in next year’s Curtis Cup.

Double European success for deaf golfer Suffolk teenager Paul Waring won the individual title at the European Deaf Golf Championship at Kytaja GC in Finland. The 17 year old won by three shots, and also helped England to a team victory for the first time in the tournament’s history.

Cambridge GC has shut down and will be converted into a housing estate which will form part of a new town in the surrounding area. The land occupied by the club will be used as part of the development of Northstowe – a new town which will feature around 10,000 sustainable houses located between Cambridge and St Ives. Club manager Colin Chapman said: “We were only given nine days’ notice that the club was going to close. It is a bit sad for all the members, especially as some didn’t have time to play a final round.”

NCG pp139 Club Golf EM Ads 20/09/2013 13:54 Page 139

CLUB GOLF

Louth

ELSHAM

GOLF CLUB

Golf Club

2014 Society Packages Available from £25 Bookings now being taken

Winter Special £17.50 18 holes with choice of All Day Breakfast or small Fish & Chips

ELSHAM GOLF CLUB A PREMIER GOLF COURSE IN LINCOLNSHIRE Visitors and Golf Societies are warmly welcomed Monday to Friday and some Sunday afternoons by friendly golf staff with packages tailored to meet your needs. Elsham Golf Club has facilities to match any golf club in Lincolnshire and we believe you will not be disappointed.

GREEN FEES

No Winter Greens New online booking available

18 holes is £40.00 and 36 holes £50.00 per person. Special Offer is available on Thursday mornings at £25.00 per round. Twilight golf after 3.30pm is available at £20.00 per round. Monday to Friday. Fourball any weekday £120 for four. WINTER PACKAGE - Coffee, 18 holes of golf and one course meal just £26 per head. From 22nd October - 28th March 2014

For more details please contact us on Telephone: 01507 603681 Email: louthgolfclub@btconnect.com www.louthgolfclub.com

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 139

NCG pp140 Club Golf WM 20/09/2013 12:57 Page 140

CLUB GOLF News & Reviews

in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

Father and son hit holein-one at Hagley

Y C HA M

CONTACT

M Worcestershire juniors come up short Worcestershire’s James Robinson and Oliver Farrell finished tied for second place at the Midland Champion of Champions event at Lingdale. The pair finished five shots behind eventual winner Jordan Wrisdale.

County Champion: Walsall, West Midlands About This club was founded in October 1907 and has retained much of the legendary Dr Alister MacKenzie's original design. A steady programme of tree planting over the past 50 years has seen the course become more challenging and attractive. The venue boasts a fantastic clubhouse offering first-class catering and an extensive wine list.

The Course Crafted into the surrounding parkland, the easy-walking par-70 course measures a substantial 6,250 yards but also poses challenges other than length. The tree-lined fairways place a premium on accuracy from the tee, while even after a good drive the greens are well guarded. A good score will be founded mainly on solid iron play.

Cleobury Mortimer is celebrating the success of their biggest club championship event to date. More members took part in the tournament than ever before, and the eventual winner was Sam Pain.

Top Hole The 536-yard 18th sums up everything that is good about Walsall. A solid tee shot and a good lay-up sets up an approach to a green flanked by a small stream and several bunkers. Card wrecker The 14th is not Stroke Index one for nothing – you’ll need to hit two good shots to threaten the green.

Staffordshire boys are County champions

Vardon bowl proves a success The South Staffordshire GC recently hosted its annual Vardon Bowl Trophy - a tournament created to celebrate the Harry Vardon-designed course at the club. A total of 121 players took part in the event, including 90 from visiting clubs. The title went to home player Alex Berrow, who shot a one-over 72. The tournament was created in 2008 to mark 100 years of the Vardon design.

Financial boost for Birmingham golf Successful club champs at Cleobury

Y C HA

Members at Kenilworth raised nearly £3,000 for Acorns Children’s Hospice following their annual captain’s charity day. Contributions came from both a raffle and an auction.

Kenilworth charity day

t: 01922 6 13 512 walsallgol fclub.co.u k p: WS1 3E Y

O N • CO

A father and son achieved a remarkable feat by both hitting a hole-in-one during a round at Hagley. Elliot and Wayne Mason hit aces on the 3rd and 6th holes respectively.

Leisure company Mytime Active has been awarded the management of Birmingham Council’s seven public golf courses. Immediate investment will be made in the quality of the courses, with plans in place to build a new clubhouse at Pype Hayes, provide a driving range at Hatchford Brook and

140 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

refurbish the existing clubhouses at Boldmere and Harborne. Cabinet Member for Leisure, Sport and Culture, Martin Mullaney, said: “There was a very real fear that one or more of our courses might have to close, but we have now safeguarded public golf for future generations.”

University of Birmingham backs TASS The University of Birmingham will be a lead site for the 2013/14 Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme. The programme will provide physical, technical and lifestyle support for four young English female golfers. Applications are now open for the scheme.

Staffordshire are the English Boys County champions for the first time following an impressive win in the tournament finals at Kedleston Park. The Staffordshire team beat Devon 8-1 to narrowly take the title from defending champions Yorkshire. “I’m very proud the boys have won this title for the first time,” said Staffordshire captain Mike Tunnicliffe. “I’m hoping this will encourage the juniors in our county to repeat the performance in future years now that we have broken our duck,” he added.

NCG pp141 Club Golf WM Ads 20/09/2013 09:55 Page 141

CLUB GOLF

Societies welcome through-out 2014/15 Golf Packages from £22.50pp (including food)

New 28 bay Driving Range

Golfer CLUBGOLF NATIONAL

CLUB

Kenilworth Golf Club

SUMMER 2014

Are you a West Midlands club?

Wassell Grove Lane, Hagley, West Midlands DY9 9JW

For bookings contact the Society Co-ordinator Tel: 01562 883701 www.hagleygolfandcountryclub.co.uk

Walsall Golf Club B R O A D WAY | WA L S A L L | W S 1 3 E Y

The Moore

Package includes:

£36.00

£42.50

The Greaves

The Charlton Package includes:

Package includes:

Coffee & Bacon Roll, Coffee & Bacon Roll, 9 Holes, Soup & Sandwich, 18 Holes 18 Holes of Golf, of Golf, 3 Course 2 Course Meal Evening Meal

Attract new members Attract societies from nearby clubs Attract visiting parties from further afield

Call 0113 289 3979 or email info@sportspub.co.uk

The Hurst

& Bacon Roll, Coffee & Bacon Roll, Coffee 18 Holes of Golf, 18 Holes of Golf Chef ’s Special

Want to appear in our new regional directory?

• • •

Tailored Packages Choose your own package and customise your own day

£48.50

To book call us now on 01926 858517 or visit us at www.kenilworthgolfclub.co.uk

£57.50

For bookings of 20 or more players, the organiser goes absolutely free!

A hidden gem in the heart of the West Midlands.

With over 100 years history we are proud to be the English Champion Club for 2012/13. Our course was designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie who also designed Augusta, home of the Masters - its much easier to get a game at Walsall than Augusta! Packages are available for Societies and Captain's Away Days - see our website for details or call our Office to discuss your requirements for a bespoke day. Membership opportunities are available.

For any further details please do not hesitate to contact the club on 01922 613512

www.walsallgolfclub.co.uk

FOR INSIGHT AND OPINION ON THE GAME OF GOLF, THERE'S ONLY ONE PLACE TO LOOK...

nationalclubgolfer.com www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 141

NCG pp142 Club Golf Scotland 20/09/2013 14:00 Page 142

CLUB GOLF News & Reviews

in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

SCOTLAND News and course reviews from the Home of Golf

Carnegie centenary

Y C HA M

CONTACT

M New match played in tribute to Green A new match has been played in honour of Charlie Green, one of Scotland’s finest amateur players who died this year. The match was played in a Ryder Cup format between East and West Dunbartonshire at Dumbarton GC.

County Champion: Montrose, Angus About One of the first courses to exist in Britain, Montrose provides golf in its most basic and original form. It is easy to imagine what it was like here centuries ago before the grass was cut and greens and tees defined because that is all that has changed. Three clubs – Royal Montrose, Montrose Mercantile and Montrose Caledonia – all use the course and have their own clubhouse here.

The Course The length, shape and difficulty of the holes at Montrose are determined less by the architect than the demands of the land. So since the land decreed there would be as many as 10 par 4s in the opening 11 holes, it is futile to worry about any sense of imbalance – just enjoy each one for what it is. The course has also hosted qualifying rounds for the Open.

Murray Naysmith won the Paul Lawrie Foundation Junior Jug at Blairgowrie – his first Boys’ Order of Merit victory. “Congrats to Murray Naysmith our new PLF junior jug champion for 2013,” said Lawrie.

Top Hole The 391-yard par-4 2nd is a classic, played parallel to the sea down the most rumpled of fairways. Card Wrecker The par-3 3rd is an original version of a design replicated on courses all over the world. The tee is on one high point, the green is on another 150 yards away across a valley. The rest is up to the wind.

McDonald wins SGU Order of Merit

Local pro wins at Turnberry Portpatrick’s James Erskine has won the 2013 Cleveland Golf and Srixon Invitational Pro-Am at Turnberry. Erskine led from the beginning of the event, which was played over the Kintyre and Ailsa layouts, and went on to win by three shots from the rest of the field. “This is an incredible event to even be a part of, so to end up winning makes me very proud,” said Erskine.

Salmond encouraged by ClubGolf Naysmith wins Lawrie Jug

Y C HA

Irvine currently have some outstanding winter deals available for visitors to take advantage of through the coming months. Contact the club on 01294 275 979.

Winter deals at Irvine

t: 01674 6 72 932 montrosel inks.co.uk p: DD10 8 SW

O N • CO

Royal Dornoch’s most prestigious competition, the Carnegie Shield, was played for the 100th time this year. Home club member Chris Mailley beat American Trey Wilkinson 5&3 in the final after beating four previous winners in the earlier rounds.

Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmond has said he is encouraged by data which shows that the government funded ClubGolf programme has introduced many more children to the game. A survey of 81 per cent of Scottish clubs showed that over half the children that joined in 2011 and

142 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

2012 did so through ClubGolf. Salmond said: “These figures are extremely encouraging and exciting, showing more young people participating. I congratulate those at ClubGolf. Scotland is the home of golf and we must ensure it is open to all of our youngsters.”

Club cuts fees to boost membership numbers Dollar have announced that they will cut their membership fees by £100 for 2013/14 after reaching a rent agreement with their landlords. “The club has been struggling financially for a few years now – so this is a great boost to us,” said club captain Scott Maxwell.

Kilmarnock Barassie’s Jack McDonald is the new Scottish Golf Union Order of Merit champion following victories in the two final counting events. The University of Stirling student secured the title with victory in the South East District Open at West Linton. McDonald won last year’s Scottish Amateur Golfer of the Year accolade and has won three events on the SGU calendar in 2013. He is a member of the SGU performance squad and represented Scotland in this year’s Home Internationals at Ganton.

NCG pp143 Club Golf Scotland Ads 20/09/2013 10:35 Page 143

CLUB GOLF

Torwoodlee Golf Course Edinburgh Road, Galashiels, Scottish Borders TD1 2NE

VISITORS WELCOME

A challenging 18 hole, 6021 yds SSS 69/70 parkland course set adjacent to the River Gala, 2 miles North of Galashiels on the A7 & 30 miles South of Edinburgh.

WINTER TICKET NOW AVAILABLE

GREEN FEES £32 round, £42 day - Weekdays & Weekends

Contact the Secretary on

New GPS Buggies & online booking available Special offer - 4x ball - £80 (£100 inc. buggies)

01294 275979

Phone: 01896 752260 (Option 3) www.torwoodleegolfclub.co.uk Email: torwoodleegolfclub@btconnect.com

Golfer NATIONAL

CLUB

GULLANE GOLF CLUB

CLUBGOLF

Are you a Scottish club? Want to appear in our new regional directory? • Attract new members • Attract societies from nearby clubs • Attract visiting parties fromfurther afield

Call 0113 289 3979 or email info@sportspub.co.uk

Gullane Golf Club offers 3 Championship quality links courses. Winter Offers from 1st October. Normal tees and greens. Gullane Golf Club, West Links Road, Gullane, East Lothian EH31 2BB www.gullanegolfclub.com T: 01620 842 255

www.nationalclubgolfer.com | NOVEMBER 2013 143

NCG pp144 Club Golf Wales 20/09/2013 14:01 Page 144

CLUB GOLF News & Reviews

in association with Glenbrae Golf

MADE IN THE UK

WALES All the latest news and course reviews from the Principality

Paralympic star promotes golf campaign

M Greenkeeper grants The Welsh Golf Union has announced that it will make new grants available to provide training and advice to all greenkeepers working at clubs affiliated to the union. To apply, visit golfunionwales.org

Bond is top home player Liam Bond finished the Wales Open as the leading home player, ahead of lots of Tour stars. The professional at St Pierre was ranked 1,528th in the world before the event at Celtic Manor. He held the halfway lead before fading away to 43rd.

Y C HA

Golf Development Wales have set up a new initiative which promotes golf to deaf players. The scheme is being piloted at The Vale and will be rolled out to 20 locations across the country.

CONTACT

t: 01745 8 54320 prestatyng olf club.co.uk p: LL19 7H S

Help for deaf golfers

Y C HA M

O N • CO

Paralympic gold medalist Josie Pearson received her first golf lesson at Celtic Manor as part of a programme designed to encourage disabled people to take up the sport. The PGA Academy Programme was founded last year.

County Champion: Prestatyn, Denbighshire About There can be few more pleasant places to play during the cooler autumn and winter months than the championship links at Prestatyn. That is because the most northerly course in Wales – right on the beach in the famous tourist town – enjoys a temperate climate and its seaside nature ensures that superb greens are virtually guaranteed all year round.

The Course Firm, fast greens and a grandstand closing hole have made the 99-yearold layout one of the most popular in the region and a must play should you be considering a visit to this part of Wales. The infamous Prestatyn Gutter comes into play over the closing stretch and holes named Water’s Edge, Dunes and Beach hint at the classic links test that awaits.

Top Hole The 15th is one of the shorter par 4s on the course. Yet this hole has ruined many scorecards with its narrow fairway, deep bunkers and devilishly tricky MacKenzie green. Card Wrecker The par-3 13th is the longest and toughest on the course. There are seven bunkers guarding the green, so accuracy is essential from the tee.

Wales win Home Internationals

Bourdy wins Wales Open Frenchman Grégory Bourdy won the ISPS Handa Wales Open following a remarkable finish at Celtic Manor. Bourdy was tied at the top with Peter Uihlein after 15 holes of the final round, but holed a stunning 50-feet putt on the 16th and followed up with birdie at 17. The Frenchman then secured his fourth European Tour title with another excellent putt from 30 feet on the 18th green.

Donaldson could make Gleneagles European Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley has challenged Welshman Jamie Donaldson to make his Ryder Cup team for next year’s tournament. McGinley captained Donaldson in the 2011 Seve Trophy when he contributed two wins and two halves to help Great Britain and Ireland secure

144 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

a 15.5-12.5 win. “Jamie was a wonderful member of my Seve Trophy team who took to team golf like a duck to water,” said the popular Irishman. “He’s a player who has all the potential to play the Ryder Cup for me. If he plays well enough, I’ll be delighted to have him on board.”

Wrexham are Welsh Team Champions Wrexham won the Welsh Team Championships at Milford Haven after narrowly beating the home club in the final. Milford Haven hosted the event as part of their centenary celebrations, and were unlucky to fall short against more experienced opposition.

Wales are the new Ladies’ Home Internationals champions after a clean sweep of wins at Scotscraig. The victory is only Wales’ fourth in over 100 years but it follows more recent wins in 1998, 2008 and 2009. Wales opened with a comfortable victory over England before narrowly beating Ireland and then seeing off the host nation. Amy Boulden, playing in her last amateur event, beat Eilidh Briggs before Wrexham’s Chloe Williams maintained her perfect record to guarantee the win.

NCG.com 20/09/2013 10:32 Page 1

www.nationalclubgolfer.com

NCG pp146 Columnist MT 19/09/2013 16:58 Page 146

MARK TOWNSEND How Trap 3 and some broken tees made me what I am today NE of my banker questions in any probing interview is to ask for a player’s superstitions. Having just pumped them on whether they prefer links to parkland (answer: yes) it helps to lighten the mood and offers up the opportunity to unsheathe a layer of their personality. Typical answer: Never play with a No 3 on my Pro V1 (to avoid three putting, obviously) and always use white tees. I then smile thinly and go on to ask for their favourite colour and, probably, dream fourball. Recently one (female) golfer replied: “If I don’t play well in the first round with a white hat I will change it to a black one; the same with shoes, if I play well I will stick with them. If I use a certain toilet and then play well I will use that before the second round. “Lining the ball up; if I am putting well I will keep it that way, if not I will turn it round.” I suspect there was more to come but my usual thin smile had disappeared. I raised my eyebrows in a look that signalled doubt over her sanity. Quietly I wanted to hug her. Like ‘Player A’ I too have these imbecilic, irrational thoughts.

Tee party These don’t get a look in

My lucky toilet There’s nothing strange about having a favourite trap to visit ahead of an important medal. Here I can quieten my mind and relax ahead of the four-hour grind and battle with my inner demons. Or, more likely, obsess about my tee time while reading a collection of chipping notes on my phone, which brings about an even longer spell at the crease. My lucky toilet has helped bring about a 0.1 increase in each of my last five medals. My lucky tee One of my groundbreaking changes in the past couple of months has been the use of a pink castle for all drivers. I have three of these little fellas, I look after them with my life and can often be found circumnavigating a tee box rescuing my inflexible friend long after my playing partners have moved on. The beauty of these is there are no nagging concerns over whether you have successfully inserted a small piece of wood into the turf at

146 NOVEMBER 2013 | www.nationalclubgolfer.com

roughly the right height – and they never shatter. A small part of me used to die a little bit inside when another of my favourite pegs only survived one wild lash with the chief. This has also restored some dignity as it removes the temptation to reverse the car and fill the boot on the 1st tee at somewhere nice where they kindly (and foolishly) leave a bag full of free tees. Oh, and I will never, ever use a full-length tee for any sort of par-3 approach, preferring to always use a splintered, wooden effort that, over a short period of time, will leave a hole in my trouser pocket. My lucky hats Away from the golf course I despise baseball caps. I never wore one even in the late 80s, despite George Michael and Bros leading thousands down this sorry path, and I’m far too old to consider wearing one now. Yet, with a club in my hand, I convince myself that I can’t play golf without one. Partly for practical reasons due to a mop of hair (the only other option being an Alice band) though mainly as I believe it helps me to focus. A horse has blinkers, I like to don a bright,

repellent cap. Forget anchored putting or ‘rolling back the ball’, I’d like to think that 2014 will signal the return of the beanie. My lucky marker Never a pound coin (too thick), never a 50p (too big) and nothing copper (too invisible, turning a possible birdie putt into having to pick up). And never, ever, a roulette-type chip. Always a 10p, tails up. Or, if I’m feeling quirky and a bit showy, an American nickel. My lucky balls Every remaining ball in the car boot, in among the free tees, tells its own story. A small club logo will quickly relive another horror show and will never see the light of day again. And, on the rare occasion that 36 points is breached, the same ball will be retired to stud knowing that its best days are now gone. My lucky undies Don’t be ridiculous. Of course I …blue, white stripes.

• Mark Townsend is NCG’s deputy editor. He now plays off 8 after a slow start and middle to the year

Foremost Golf Contour 20/09/2013 11:02 Page 1

MAKING AN IMMEDIATE IMPACT. NEW IRONS FROM PING.

ENDORSED BY THE GAME’S BEST. After the first swing, I knew the S55 was going in my bag. No question. I love the control, the trajectory and the forgiveness. It’s everything I want in a golf club.” - HUNTER MAHAN

THE S55 IRONS CAN HAVE THE SAME IMPACT ON YOU. SEE A PING FITTING SPECIALIST TODAY OR VISIT PING.COM

S55_210x297.indd 1

13/09/2013 11:10