LG Cover Jan 13 16/11/2012 15:22 Page 3
January 2013 £3.00
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BRITAIN’S TOP
100 LINKS
Enjoy our celebration of our wonderful seaside courses PLUS Mickey Walker on why everyone should try links golf
SUZANN In prime form as Solheim year approaches, the feisty Norwegian reveals... n Why enjoying herself is the key to winning n Her need to play by instinct and with heart
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LG pp 3 Ed Comm 16/11/2012 15:33 Page 3
Welcome
January 2013 Volume 16 Issue 8
Germany a sound choice to hold the Solheim O Germany will host the 2015 Solheim Cup. It is on the face of it an uninspiring selection – no visions of glistening sun-kissed fairways, no world-class German players, no real heritage in the ladies' game. Yet this is where ladies' golf is in Europe. The game needs to be spread and if that is to a relatively unknown course in Germany then so be it. The days of the Solheim Cup attracting multiple bids disappeared with the crash of the world economy. It is no coincidence that it is the country with one of the world's strongest economies which has won the right to host the 2015 matches. It would be lovely to think that by the next time the bidding process is underway, the
Editorial director Dan Murphy
S
Deputy Editor Mark Townsend Staff Writers Joe Whitley James Tompkinson Contributors Madeleine Winnett Chris Bertram Photographs Getty Images Chief Designer Andrew Kenworthy Designer & Webmaster Daniel Cooper
global fiscal situation is a lot more rosy. In those conditions, many more countries and many more clubs would be eager to spend the money needed to stage the biennial contest. As it is, we should wish Sandra Gal and Caroline Masson well with the next three years of
Nature’s gift to the game
THIS month we compile our Top 100 Links in Britain. As ever with lists of this nature, it is only a bit of fun – but don't let that stop you telling us where we have gone wrong! We are huge fans of
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Consulting Editor Mickey Walker
seaside golf and if you haven't ever experienced a links course, we'd urge you to change that in 2013. Or even before then – because winter is the perfect time to take to a links as they remain in fantastic condition as a result of their quickdraining soil. Plus, it's about as much fun as you can have on a course (but beware the deep bunkers are penal!).
their careers so they are standard-bearers for the matches, encouraging large and passionate supporters to the event. And if nothing else, we can be sure the park-and-ride system for fans will be the most efficient and orderly in the history of the matches…
Don’t miss our shoe showcase this month Back in the day it didn't really matter which pair you wore; they were all clumpy with dubious waterproofness and a distinct lack of colour. But now things have changed and style and performance are combined brilliantly in lots of golf shoes – check out our feature to see which pair suits you and might make a nice Christmas present.
Commercial Manager Tom Irwin Display Sales Manager Richard Holt Sales Executives Luke Kelly Neil Braddish Tom Lenton Jamie Miles Finance & Operations Director WIll Shucksmith Accounts Emma Abbott Subscription Department Telephone 01274 851 323 One year (includes postage): UK £36 Europe £42 World £52 Printers and Repro Precision Colour Printing 01952 585585 Sports Publications LTD, Unit 2, Arena Park, Tarn Lane Scarcroft, Leeds LS17 9BF Telephone 01132 893 979 e-mail editorial@sportspub.co.uk ISSN 1369 4790 Published by © Sports Publications LTD 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 reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed do not necessarily represent the views of Sports Publications LTD. 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 Lady Golfer.
Lady Golfer 3
LG pp 4-5 Starter MOTM 16/11/2012 15:34 Page 4
THE STARTER
13 CUP 20 ke place ta l il w SOLHEIM up ugust lheim C
3 So tween A The 201 Club be ade do Golf will be m ra lo m o a C te t a ’s e p L ro e u th ET 18. E yers on 16 and four pla ET p to u e fo th p rL up of en the to d rankings th t, s li rl points olex wo on the R in Lotta members picks from capta r u fo n. and Neuman
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LG pp 4-5 Starter MOTM 16/11/2012 15:34 Page 5
THE MONTH IN A SNAPSHOT IS it too early to be starting to think about the Solheim Cup? No, we didn’t think so either. So when Suzann Pettersen followed up her first victory of the season with an even more impressive triumph in Taiwan, we couldn’t help but get excited at the prospect of Europe’s Solheim defence in September. Pettersen simply has to be in good form for Europe to stand a chance of retaining the trophy with a first-ever victory on American soil. So her climax to the season is a welcome one. After a modest season by her standards, Pettersen won the LPGA KEB·HanaBank Championship after a threehole play-off against her Solheim Cup teammate Catriona Matthew to break her 2012 duck and headed off for the Sunrise LPGA Taiwan Championship in fine spirits. Spectators thronged to the Sunrise GC in Taoyuan to see just one thing – a victory for their heroine, World No 1 Yani Tseng. And going into the last round, there was every chance of it happening with the topranked Tseng alongside Pettersen and Inbee Park. But the Norwegian loves a fight and she became the third player to win back-to-back events on the LPGA Tour this season as she eased to a three-shot victory. The Norwegian began a shot behind World No 5 Park but birdied the 1st to immediately reduce the deficit and hold off Tseng. Park dropped a shot on the 5th to hand a share of the lead to the Oslo native and it stayed that way until the 14th when the Korean again made bogey. Pettersen then drained a birdie putt on 15 to move two ahead and made a decisive birdie to finish in style on the par-5 18th - and then be soaked by Michelle Wie (left)! Her three-under 69 understandably delighted her. “Obviously winning last week gave me perhaps a bit more confidence believing that what I do is the right thing, and I’ve had some great friends around me last week, this week, being able to put my head in the right spot and just really enjoy myself. “I don’t think I’ve enjoyed myself so much on the golf course like I have the last three or four weeks, so I think that might be a huge part of it,” she continued. “Really playing with my heart, playing with my instinct, even on the last shot. Just being aggressive.” Pettersen crossed the $1million mark in season earnings for the sixth consecutive season and passes Meg Mallon for eighth on the LPGA Career Money List. • For a quick interview with Suzann Pettersen, turn the page...
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Lady Golfer 5
LG pp 6-7 NIBS, Solheim 16/11/2012 15:35 Page 6
THE STARTER
NEWS IN BRIEF
MADDEN IN NATIONAL SQUAD ENGLISH U15 girls’ champion Sophie Madden is among 23 talented young players who have been selected for England Golf Select regional training squads for 201213. Other players include Madden’s Essex teammate Ashleigh Greenham; the pair helped Essex to their win in the County Finals this year. The 2012 Abraham Trophy winner Kirsty Beckwith is also included alongside last year’s champion Ciara Kelly.
SOLHEIM CUP HEADING FOR GERMANY THE 2015 Solheim Cup will be held at St Leon-Rot in Germany. It will be the first time the biennial event has been to Germany and the home fans will be hoping the likes of Sandra Gal and Caroline Masson will be able to play their way on to the team. The club, which was opened in 1996 and is an hour away from Frankfurt, has staged the Deutsche Bank SAP Open on the men’s European Tour as well as one of Europe’s leading youth events, the Allianz German Boys and Girls Open.
It has 36 holes and some of the most spectacular practice facilities in the world. Both courses, St Leon and Rot, have held the European Tour event which Tiger Woods won in 1999, 2001 and 2002. At present the Ladies’ European Tour has one tournament in Germany but that is held at Golfpark Gut Hausern near Munich. The 2013 matches take place on August 16-18 at Colorado GC with Europe defending the trophy. The United States hold an 8-4 lead in the overall matches.
Another 62 promising girls have been selected for the Birdie training programme. They include Hollie Muse, who is the English U13 girls’ champion.
Killeen glory Europe salute the Irish crowds
ACCESS SUCCESS FOR CLYBURN
JAMES LANDS TOP AWARD YVONNE James has been named as Fuller’s London Pride Golf Steward of the Year for 2012. Last year Rugby’s Yvonne became the Midland region winner only to miss out on the top prize. But this time she added the national title ahead of the other regional winners in the all-female line-up – Samantha Hudson from Swaffham in Norfolk, the South East winner, Anna Tyson from Dainton Park in Devon, the South West winner, and Dawn Stacey from Wath, the North winner.
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PRETSWELL SECURES CARD SCOTLAND’S Pamela Pretswell may have missed the season-ending LET Access Series event but still claimed the Order of Merit title to earn her place on the Ladies’ European Tour next year. The Curtis Cup star was the model of consistency with one victory, in Sweden, and five other top-10 finishes from just 12 starts. That win came when she was still an amateur, the first non-professional to do so thanks to a closing 67. France’s Marion Ricordeau and Norway’s Cecilie Lundgreen also secured their cards for the 2013 season.
CURTIS CUP star Holly Clyburn landed her first victory as a professional when she won the Banesto Tour Valencia on the LET Access Series. The English youngster led after rounds of 67-71 but an outward half of 42 left her struggling. But she steadied herself for a back nine of two under before beating Spain’s Carmen Alonso in extra holes.
Both players made pars on the first play-off hole but Alonso then bogeyed the next. It was only Clyburn’s second event as a pro and was helped by having her Curtis Cup team-mate Kelly Tidy on her bag. “On the 9th tee the British Open experience came to my mind: I was eight over but finished one under the back nine to get into the top 25,” Clyburn said.
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LG pp 6-7 NIBS, Solheim 16/11/2012 15:36 Page 7
TWO MINUTES WITH
SUZANN PETTERSEN
TOP FIVE
WATERPROOFS
GALVIN GREEN Paclite Alivia £219
As a girl growing up, I never thought I’d ever be in that league (of being 8th all-time on the Money List). That actually kind of is quite touching, that I’ve already achieved that much. But I’m only 31, and my big goal is the Olympics in four years. It’s nice to get a head start to my career. I tee it up every week to try and win. I don’t think I’ve enjoyed myself so much on the course like I have recently as I have during the last 10 years.
DAVIES OPENS LEGENDS ACCOUNT LAURA Davies claimed the 82nd win of her professional career but her first on the Legends Tour in the United States. The tour is for 45 and over players and the 49-year-old had never played on it before the Legends Tour Open Championship at Innisbrook. The Solheim Cup heroine began the final day one behind but was ahead early and eventually won by two shots from Beth Daniel and Barb Moxness, finishing on five under. Davies’ trademark big hitting wasn’t needed for once as she only required the driver three times each round. “I’m hoping I can find a few more of these to play in because I kind of like them,” Davies said.
Yani and I, we’re great friends. I think a unique thing that we have, as much as we’re competitors, we’re good friends. We practise together. We kind of brain storm together. We can walk through golf strategy together. But at the same time, once we tee it up, we’re fiery competitors. What Yani has done over the last couple of years is hard to ever repeat. I don’t know if it’s normal or not normal to win 12 events a year. It’s going to be hard for anyone to do that after her.
PROQUIP Grace Tourflex £99
SUNICE Danielle FlexVent Performance £174.99
PING COLLECTION Moondance £140 (suit)
I have a new caddie that I feel is working really well. He is very laid back and the chemistry is right there.
FOOTJOY DryJoys Rain £115
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Lady Golfer 7
LG pp 8-9 Tweets, GTKY, Stats 16/11/2012 15:50 Page 8
THE STARTER
GETTING TO KNOW...
TOP TWEETS
Sydnee Michaels The LPGA star on six putting and being one of eight children
That book "Fifty shades of Grey" is filthy porn!! Wish someone told me, I would have started it months ago... @SophieGustafson My daughter's thoughts on last 2 weeks.."you're getting closer mummy" ..made me laugh! @Beany25 (Catriona Matthew) Caddied for Corey Pavin for the last 4 holes at the champions tour season ending schwab cup! 3 birdies!!!! That was so much fun.# Hard work @CKGolferChic (Cristie Kerr) Morning run, practice, fly to Mexico!!!! Just a normal day... @ThePCreamer It’s time to leave china and head home after 9 weeks on the road @CarlyBooth92
ONE COURSE FOR REST OF YOUR LIFE Pebble Beach
BEST MATE ON TOUR I have stayed close with a bunch of my former UCLA team-mates
island, Prancer FAVOURITE FOOD Mexican
FUNNIEST PERSON ON TOUR Tiffany Joh (former teammate) Decided to switch it up for Logan's lunch today.... Cut his sandwiches into triangles not squares @Kstupples Brought my first Christmas jumper and it made me happy @melreidgolf
WORST SHOT YOU’VE SEEN ON TOUR A six putt on 18 to miss the cut by one, I felt horrible for her WHICH QUESTION ARE YOU ASKED THE MOST So you are one of eight siblings?
WHAT WON’T YOU EAT Most fish FIRST CAR ML500 FIRST JOB Retail sales clerk at Guess on Rodeo Drive LAST TIME YOU CRIED Last week
WHAT IS THE ANSWER Yup, I’m the baby ANY SUPERSTITIONS I wear all black on Sundays IF NOT A GOLFER WHAT WOULD YOU BE A dancer
Caught up with downton series finale. Made me laugh and cry in the space of 5 minutes. I love that show!! Now to Christmas.... @FlicJohnsonGolf
WHICH FAMOUS PERSON DO YOU MOST LOOK LIKE Jabba the Hut WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO PLAY YOU IN A FILM Blake Lively ONE CD, ONE BOOK AND A DVD FOR A DESERT ISLAND Adele 21, How to survive on a desert
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WHERE DO YOU HOPE TO BE IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME Top five in the world rankings BEST SWING TIP Swing the club like I’m taking a slapshot BEST TIP TO HELP DEAL WITH NERVES Fake sickness so you can evade the situation! Or just take some deep breaths
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LG pp 8-9 Tweets, GTKY, Stats 16/11/2012 15:50 Page 9
PEAK PRACTICE FOR PGA PROFESSIONALS
STATISTICALLY SPEAKING STACY LEWIS SPECIAL Average driving distance - 23rd on the rankings
259
Putts per greens in regulation – second in rankings behind Inbee Park
1.75
Greens in regulation per cent – second again this time behind up-andcoming Swede Karin Sjodin
75
Number of birdies in 2012 - again she had more than anyone
351
Points scored on the 2013 Solheim points table, Lewis is already top and looking like a second outing
518
Number of rounds in the 60s - this left her in top spot of the rankings. She also had 57 rounds under par
33
RANKING REPORT WORLD RANKINGS
PTS
1
Yani Tseng
12.24
11 Cristie Kerr
6.22
2
Stacy Lewis
3
Inbee Park
9.32
12 Paula Creamer
5.94
8.55
13 Amy Yang
5.71 5.70
4
Na Yeon Choi
8.46
14 Sun Ju Ahn
5
Suzann Pettersen
7.88
15 Catriona Matthew
5.67
6
Shanshan Feng
7.78
16 Azahara Munoz
5.27
7
Jiyai Shin
7.38
17 Karrie Webb
5.20
8
Ai Miyazato
7.03
18 Angela Stanford
5.11
9
So Yeon Ryu
6.57
19 Chie Arimura
4.98
6.34
20 Brittany Lincicome
4.77
10 Mika Miyazato
NEXT ON TOUR
December 9 Wendy’s 3 Tour Challenge Nevada
PGA professionals Rachel Bailey and Nicky Lawrenson have completed their heroic climb of Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for two special charities. Rachel, a former LET player and now the pro at Whittington Heath, in Stafforshire, will be raising money for Breast Cancer Care. Nicky, who is involved with the development of a new facility in Germany, chose Macmillan Cancer Support, a move inspired by the loss of GB&I’s Curtis Cup captain, Sue Turner, who died earlier this year. When Nicky mentioned the idea, Rachel took little convincing – despite the fact that in 2010 she was was hit by a car while cycling and ended up with her leg in a cast for three months following knee surgery. “Sue Turner was a member at my club, Whittington Heath, and a good friend,” said Rachel. “She had been diagnosed with breast cancer a couple of months previously and I had wanted to do something to help, small help though it may be.” Nicky says: "It was definitely a challenge, but well worth it. We were on the mountain for seven days, the first two of which
unfortunately poured with rainy. "The camping side of things was interesting to say the least! A bit chilly at times and the 5.30am wake up calls even chillier! The views as we started to climb above the clouds were fantastic, the best ones being when we reached the summit and the glaciers came into view as the sun started to rise. Summit night was a toughie and probably the greatest mental challenge. We set off at 11pm after getting a few hours rest and headed up the mountain slowly but surely or Pole Pole as they say in Tanzania (slowly, slowly!) seven hours later with the welcome site of the sun rising we reached Stellapoint, 40 minutes away from the summit. "From that point on we knew we would make it. I was very lucky not to suffer any symptoms of altitude sickness, some of the group wear quite poorly but still battled their way up there. To my surprise one of the porters had brought a 3 wood up the mountain for myself and good friend Rachel, a fellow golf pro, to hit a shot from the top!" • Visit www.justgiving.com to make your donation.
December 5-8 Dubai Ladies Masters Emirates, UAE December 6-9 Pre-qualifying Tour School Morocco December 13-17 Final qualifying Morocco
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Lady Golfer 9
LG pp 10-11 Columnist MW 16/11/2012 15:55 Page 10
COMMENT
Mickey Walker Why I love links golf – and why you must try it if you haven’t already
F the courses that you play on regularly are built on clay, you’d better invest in some golf wellingtons, some plus fours, or just resign yourself to spending a lot of time trying to get your clothes, waterproofs and shoes clean! Anyone who knows me will be well aware that I am a stickler for starting a round or turning up to practise wearing clean clothes, shoes and using clean equipment. That probably goes back to when I used to earn my weekly pocket money by being responsible for cleaning my golf-mad parents' shoes and keeping their kit clean. I actually enjoy cleaning golf shoes and my equipment, which some people find strange! I suppose that as we pack more and more into our busy lives, it’s just another thing that takes up our time, and which a lot of people think of as unnecessary. To me, I feel as if I’m a couple of holes up if my matchplay opponent has caked mud on their waterproof trousers and their shoes quite clearly haven’t been cleaned for weeks if not months. When I first became interested in golf, the Big Three of Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player were almost exclusively on our TV screens, and I never saw them appear in anything other than pristene clothing, shiny shoes and with clean equipment! Psychologically it must give you a boost to know that you’re starting out as a tour professional would. Of course, if you’re lucky enough to play on a links course, keeping your
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Stunning Pennard, in Wales, on a bright winter's morning
equipment and clothing clean becomes much less of a problem. It also means that while you often have to be a hardy soul to cope with the almost inevitable wind that blows in from the sea, snow apart, your course will hardly ever be closed in winter.
Saunton extremes Anyone who has played on a links course in varying conditions has a story to tell. I can remember playing at Saunton in a tournament when we played a par 3 measuring 112 yards that was a pitching wedge one day and a 3 wood the next! If you’ve never experienced links golf it’s hard to believe.
You will certainly feel invigorated coming in after a round and justified in having that pudding or piece of cake after battling the elements. It amazes me that a lot of golfers in the UK have never even played on a links course. Living on such a small island, we are never very far from the sea. Links golf is so different from playing golf on inland courses that it could be a different sport. Playing on most inland courses in reasonable conditions becomes a game of target golf. If you know what distance you hit each club in your bag and can do so with reasonable consistency, golf becomes fairly simple. If you look at the lowest scores ever by the best golfers in the world, they have all happened on inland golf courses. No one to my knowledge has ever broken 60 in competition on a links
course, even in the most benign conditions. With links golf, the weather conditions play a huge part, but even without the wind, because of the humps and bumps on most fairways, you have to be more creative. That can mean playing a shot to hit a bump to stun your ball so that it just trickles onto the green, or aiming to land your ball 40 yards short of the green to allow it to run up, allowing for the firmness and lack of grass on the approaches to the greens. In the wind, you might have to aim your ball out of bounds to allow for the wind to bring it back onto the course. Or if you normally hit your 5 iron 150 yards, you might have to reassess what club to hit – it could take as much as a 3 wood, or as little as a 9 iron, depending on whether you’re playing into or downwind. Links golf is rarely dull! www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
LG pp 10-11 Columnist MW 16/11/2012 15:55 Page 11
Challenging Relish playing in the rain
NO SUCH THING AS BAD WEATHER! MANY readers will have attended or watched Great Britain & Ireland play in the Curtis Cup at Nairn in June this year. Certainly the conditions on the first couple of days were brutal to say the least and far from what you would expect in the middle of summer. I haven’t actually played at Nairn – I would like to – but that was links golf at its most testing! I absolutely love playing links golf. To me it requires a great creativity, a mindset that isn’t always needed when playing on inland courses, and the ability to adapt quickly. I always used to love it when the conditions were really horrid, because I knew that most of the field were beaten before they teed off and didn’t want to be playing at all. If you haven’t ever played on a links course, I urge you to do so this winter. Yes, it may be chilly and blustery, but the course will www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
almost certainly be playable, the rough will be at its least penal which will be a real blessing after the summer, it will be a real challenge, and you’re unlikely to come off the courses looking like you’ve been mud-wrestling. As long as you wear suitable clothing and realise that scoring will be more difficult, then it will be a wonderful experience. As one of my Swedish friends once said to me: ”There’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing.”
Mickey Walker • Lady Golfer’s consulting editor captained Europe in the first four Solheim Cups. She regularly appears on Sky Sports as an expert summariser
Lady Golfer 11
LG pp 12 Columnist BB 16/11/2012 15:58 Page 12
COMMENT
Becky Brewerton A new coach and a new outlook
T has taken a while but I have hopefully finally turned a corner. This season has been my most forgettable yet but I am now looking forward to my next tournament and I haven’t felt like that for a few months. I decided before I went to China that I was going to work with a new coach. I have worked with Stewart Craig for nearly four years and we had probably gone as far as we could, I needed something different and something fresh. There were always things that I haven’t been happy about in my swing and I have now got a different way of looking at it. My new coach is Martin Park who is based in Denmark so we worked together for a week in Spain before China and it went really well and I felt a lot better on the course. It is more the understanding of my swing that I’m looking for as you can’t be too reliant on your coach on the LET as they won’t be there every week. The simplicity of the new method really clicked in my mind - it is about being more central and having less movement and in China I was able to understand why certain shots happen or don’t happen. It was very difficult to leave Stewart as he is one of my favourite people in the world and I had always envisaged him being my coach for the rest of my career. We were together at the Evian when I nearly won and at the Solheim Cup in the States so we have been through some great times and it was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do in my
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Carlota Ciganda was a winner out in China
life, let alone my golf. But it is my career and sometimes you have to make some tough decisions. To finish fourth, my best finish of 2012, was probably a relief more than anything as it has been a while since I have been in the top 10.
Chinese golf on the up I ended up staying in China for a corporate day and you can now see some players really coming through. However they seem quite happy to play in Asia so we haven’t seen some of them yet. Some girls can hit a ball further than anyone I have ever seen and they could walk on to any tour in the world. One was just 16 but has been a pro for a year already and she was incredible.
It was satisfying as I started slowly in the last round and you can’t help but begin thinking here we go again but I still felt like I was almost there and I just relaxed on the back nine and managed my first sub-70 round since March. There was a reason for all the bad shots that I have been hitting all year and I felt that if I made a certain movement then that wouldn’t happen. If there was water down the left you have to trust yourself and not bail out and you almost forget how to play properly. As much as the work on the long game Martin and I did paid off, what we did on my putting was even better. Deep down I know my putting has never been at a level good enough to compete at the top of the game and the work we did made more of an impact. I feel like I have been freed up
and I haven’t been too mechanical. Looking ahead the Solheim Cup in 2015 will be great. Germany have been a superb host to us and they have obviously put a lot in to both the men’s and women’s game. The economy is sound and the venue sounds fabulous with some incredible practice facilities. The German Open is certainly one of the best events we have and the crowds are fantastic. It is a bit like a Major the way we are looked after and you are driven home in an amazing Audi which is lovely. Soon I will be off to India and Dubai so will be looking to finish a slow season off in style.
Becky Brewerton • Becky, from Abergele in Wales, plays on the LET. She has won three times and was part of the 2007 and 2009 Solheim Cup teams. Twitter: @BeckyBrewerton
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Powerbug 11/16/12 2:19 PM Page 1
LG pp 14-15 Columnist Mad Win 16/11/2012 16:17 Page 14
COMMENT
Madeleine Winnett I’m busy planning the second Trentham Carols by Candlelight evening
Angelic Just like the carols at Trentham
OW quickly does decking the halls come around these days? I'm sure I only carted all the boxes of decorations back up to the loft a few weeks ago. However, as you are considering where to stick your little sprigs of holly around the house, and ordering crates of egg nog, I shall be putting the finishing touches to the programme for my Carols by Candlelight night at the golf club. The downside of having a good initiative is that people want you to repeat it every year. It was something I did last year for the first time and, as I have absolutely no regard for health and safety at any time, I took great delight in turning the hallowed inner sanctum of the Oak Room into a potential pyrotechnic fireball. I was
H
14 Lady Golfer
determined to make it carols by candlelight, not carols by electric light, to create the right atmosphere, so I put as many lanterns, candles and flame throwers as I could lay my hands on. I also filled every window sill with tea-tree lights – and as the curtains were open, this had the added effect of being reflected again in the windows. These, combined
Your views Do you agree with Madeleine’s opinions? Perhaps you have something to add to the debate yourself? We give away a Cobra S3 Max fairway wood each month to the author of our Star Letter. Email and let us know what you think
with the lights from the two Christmas trees in there, and some bags on the floor with star-shaped holes containing candles, transformed the Oak Room into a magical grotto. Not finished yet, I collected artistic-looking branches from the course, and with a little help from the ground staff to wedge them in buckets, hung flaming paper lanterns from the twigs. I glossed over the bit about being 'not suitable for indoor use' as I thought that was just for boring people who like adhering to rules far too closely for my liking! I glibly told the secretary it would be fine, and then had a quiet word with the steward to have an extra fire extinguisher behind the bar, just in case! Overall, the effect was wonderful. Very Christmassy.
Almost Dickensian. The trouble is, in order to go bigger and better this year, I will probably have to import a Tiny Tim – crutch and all. The ladies' committee came good, as they always do, baking mince pies for everyone, and the pungent wafts of mulled wine added to the festive aroma, so those are both essentials to recreate. Of course, song choice is all important, so alongside the traditional carols, I like to throw in a healthy smattering of old favourites, such as White Christmas (complete with instrumental verse and obligatory humming) and Jingle Bells. Come to think of it, I’m sure somewhere on eBay or Amazon there will be a joblot of sleigh bells, so that really would be a nice touch this time round.
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LG pp 14-15 Columnist Mad Win 16/11/2012 16:17 Page 15
Olympic ideal I was inspired by the London Games
Once upon a time, my horse used to share a field with a donkey. Alas, they have both long since departed to the big stable in the sky, but it would have been brilliant to start singing Little Donkey and then watch one actually walk through the Oak Room. Just the thought of the look on the chairman’s face makes me want to do it! I’m sure there must be a Donkeys R Us shop somewhere to rent one. One carol which went down particularly well last year was Good King Wenceslas, which I have to say the Trentham members entered into with great gusto. Not only were the ‘men-only’ and ‘ladies-only’ singing lines adhered to strictly, with each sex trying to outdo the other, the ensemble even stood up and sat down to sing their parts with great enthusiasm. I resisted the call
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to do an encore of it but clearly carols with acting is the way forward this year. Perhaps we could progress to a rendition of The Snowman. Walking in the Air might present a few logistical problems, but having been inspired by the opening ceremonies of the Olympics and Paralympics, I’m sure it’s nothing I couldn’t overcome with a little perseverance. I’m very lucky that I had a talented bunch of musicians to choose from, who came from outside the club, and who were only too happy to come and play and they are really looking forward to doing it again this year. My choir, on the other hand, was recruited strictly from the members, and as soon as we had finished our inaugural performance, I had offers from wives volunteering their husbands for service to
join up this year. At this rate I’ll be holding auditions – and that does have a certain appeal. I have always fancied myself in the role as Simon Cowell, and he has got nothing on me when it comes to being critical of bad singing. “Next..!” Never mind Gareth Malone and the Military Wives, we will probably be ready to go on tour soon. I can already feel a Christmas number one beckoning for The Three Ts (Trentham Tenors and Trebles.) When it comes to creating the right atmosphere, authenticity is all important, so we could always have the heating turned off, and the air conditioning on, just to add to the ambience of the surroundings. It is entirely possible that I may have a few complaints from some of the older members if I do this, and, when I think about it, trying to play the guitar when you can’t feel your fingers isn’t necessarily a good thing either. The tassels from your scarf also tend to get caught in the strings, and it might make reading the words to sing along to slightly difficult if your eyeballs are frozen over. So, on second thoughts then, I might take In the Bleak Midwinter off the list, and replace it with Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire. Brilliant – a brazier in the middle of the Oak Room floor. Now what could be more festive than that! I think I’m wasted in golf. I should have been a party planner – preferably for people with no regard for soft furnishings or a long-life expectancy.
Customs checks You really do have to admire people who make up rules, because their genetic make up just doesn’t seem to be like the rest of us. I have previously spoken of my amusement at airports, waiting to board a plane, and seeing a sign reminding me that one of the items I am not allowed to carry on is a car battery. However, they have since excelled themselves as I discovered on a recent trip overseas. As you are queuing to check in, now you are reminded that you can’t take “Miscellaneous including Asbestos, Dry ice and Engines!” Talk about a random selection! And who can even carry an engine? I ask you! And dry ice? Do they think I want to recreate an episode of Top of the Pops from the 1980s?
Madeleine Winnett • Lady Golfer’s equipment expert is a member at Trentham, a Staffordshire county player and never short of a forthright opinion!
Lady Golfer 15
LG pp 16-17 MW BB Caddies 11/16/12 4:20 PM Page 16
LIFE OF A PRO
Meeting of minds Our columnists ready for action
A meeting of
columnists
When Madeleine Winnett shadowed her fellow LG columnist Becky Brewerton, she found out exactly what sets pros apart from amateurs
N one of my more inspired moments, I thought it would be a really good idea to shadow Becky Brewerton for a few days to see just what the pros get up to in the days leading up to a tournament – the bits before we get to see them on telly. The Ladies’ British Masters at The Buckinghamshire seemed to be an ideal venue so off I headed full of joyful enthusiasm to join Becky. Unfortunately, I then fell at the first hurdle. Once I discovered her start time in the pro-am, I said I would meet her for the back nine! Having then discovered that Becky was out on the course mapping the greens at
Watching how to practise, however, was an education in itself. I know most golfers are vaguely aware that you are supposed to start with pitching, and work your way up to a driver, but seriously, who does that? Well, all the pros do – and every time they go out to hit balls. And they not only constantly change clubs, they change targets. All the time! I know I’m lazy by putting a club down on the ground parallel to where I’m aiming, to save myself the bother of lining up each time, but they not only ditch the club, they go through their entire pre-shot routine every time. That takes commitment, but it is also why the pros set up to the ball consistently well on the course,
I
16 Lady Golfer
7.30am with her (now former) coach (and caddy for that week) Stewart Craig, I knew I had made the right decision! Fortunately, on this occasion, the ‘am’ partners were all decent players, although this isn’t always the case. The story of one of the pros in Ireland being given three beginners (the most experienced of the three had been playing for six weeks!) would surely have been enough to strike terror into the heart of most pros! Pro-ams are a good time to watch the pros in action as they are prepared to try shots they wouldn’t necessarily try in competition. A case in point was Becky’s 7 iron from a totally impossible position – blocked out by trees, it had to
start low, then climb, with 70 yards of draw over the water on the right and land pin high on the green. Then again, you don’t get to win three times, play in two Solheim Cup teams and shoot an eight-under 63 unless you possess a great pair of hands and a keen sense of vision! As the amateurs considered their work done for the day after lunch, the pros headed to the range. I was actually fairly smug thinking I had worked quite hard on my game this year, but I am now embarrassed to consider ‘hard work’ and ‘my golf’ in the same sentence! We didn’t leave until 6pm, which made it a slightly surreal 11-hour day for Becky.
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LG pp 16-17 MW BB Caddies 11/16/12 4:20 PM Page 17
and most amateurs are a bus ride off! Talking of consistency, Stewart timed every pre-shot routine, and it was no coincidence that all the best shots happened within half a second of an 11-second routine. That’s attention to detail! Then out came the stickers on to the face of the woods to check the ball was being struck out of the middle, and suddenly my daily 20 balls with an 8 iron was looking very inadequate indeed. The next morning heralded another ungodly hour to set the alarm as everyone attempted to beat the predicted bad weather. Whoever coined the phrase ‘bright and early’ was wrong. The two are not remotely synonymous. I do grumpy and early, or miserable and early. However, things did take a turn for the better as I munched on my toast en route to the 1st tee and saw that Becky had teamed up with Trish Johnson and Curtis Cup star Charley Hull to play a practice round. The 16-year-old Charley isn’t necessarily a household name yet but she undoubtedly will be. Even Trish was sufficiently impressed by Charley’s swing to film it on her phone so that she could analyse it later. Health and safety doesn’t exist as players hit into greens while the group in front are still putting, and all three of them chip, putt and play bunker
shots simultaneously, and seemingly mostly aiming for each other. All this is going on as Stewart is still timing Becky’s pre-shot routines, and the whole thing is a scene of glorious chaos. After nine holes, Becky adjourned for coffee, but not before she had ensured Charley had safe passage to the back nine with another group. You don’t need to be nice to be a good player – Dottie Pepper still scares me from the comfort of my sofa. You don’t need to have a good sense of humour to be a good player – Stacy Lewis looks like she’s about to undergo root canal work at the dentist every time she steps onto the fairway. But when you happen to be blessed with both traits, along with a healthy serving of talent, then it certainly makes my assignments a lot more enjoyable. Trish then very kindly treated me to a drink and what turned out to be the world’s most expensive piece of cake. Clearly I’m in the wrong business. Had I known there was so much money in cake making, I’d have paid far more attention in home economics at school! Break over, and it was back to business. Despite the fact that it was now pouring with rain, the putting green was full of players with every gadget under the sun. I was delighted to discover that I owned every
Home hope Teenage sensation Charley Hull
single one of them, bar the string line, and made a mental note to dig them out of the cupboard when I got home. Once again, the attention to detail was amazing. For the next hour, for every distance, Becky went through her preshot routine, analysing each break and studying her chart for every putt. I could see how leaving my ‘True Plane’ on the hall carpet and giving five putts to the chair leg en route to an evening of telly probably doesn’t really cut it! Chipping, pitching and bunkers followed, with the challenge of getting to the same hole in three different ways, before changing targets. It all makes perfect sense now why chipping 20 balls off a perfect lie to the same hole bears no reflection to the challenges and choices to be made on the course. With no rest for the wicked – and no lunch break – it was back to the range. Compared with the previous
day, this was easy. A mere seven hours. However, as I reached my car, I couldn’t resist the urge to hit some shots myself. So I launched 40 of them down the car park – and managed to avoid any law suits. I even abandoned my lining-up club, and went through my pre-shot routine every time before I texted Becky. This time it was her turn to be impressed! So, why did I pick Becky as my first choice? When I told Martin Hall, former PGA coach of the year, and Golf Channel TV star, who I was following, he described Becky as being one of the most naturally gifted players he had ever seen. I had formed that opinion myself from the moment I watched her at the British Open in 2009. Couple that with a wealth of popularity, a laid-back attitude, and a wicked sense of humour, and I think I got the perfect recipe. And that definitely is worth more than £5.50 a slice!
Hard work The pros practise their putting for hours
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Lady Golfer 17
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LG pp 19 Lead to Instruction 11/16/12 4:21 PM Page 19
YOUR GAME Hit it further and straighter I Hole more putts I Short game I Golf psychology I Course management
GET A GRIP Improve your feel with this simple drill Every golfer has the ability to be a great putter – even when your swing is not performing at its peak the putting can save you. Now one of the most important concepts is the set-up and correct grip. TRY THIS: Without a putter take your normal putting stance and align to a target. Simply clap your hands together letting your arms hang naturally from your shoulders. Note the back of your left hand and the palm of your right hand face the target. Your putting grip can be cross-handed, split grip or normal – it does not matter so long as the back of your left hand, palm of your right hand and putter face are aimed at the target. The stroke is a pendulum motion – distance is controlled by how far back and through you go. Try this exercise so you grasp the correct feel!
Lucinda Davies is based at Royal Mid-Surrey in Richmond – book a lesson at www.lucindadaviesgolf.com/lessons
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Lady Golfer 19
LG pp 20-21 Rushworth Instruction 16/11/2012 16:28 Page 20
INSTRUCTION
Less
wing = a better swing How some simple hand exercises can help your flexibility
ARE YOU ON PLANE? The flying elbow in the backswing or chicken wing in the followthrough makes it virtually impossible to swing the club on plane. When the right elbow isn’t pointing down towards the ground at the top of the backswing, the club comes off the natural track back to the ball and a compensatory move has to be performed, therefore reducing clubhead speed and accuracy. If your posture is correct and there is no roundedness between your shoulder blades, one of the reasons for the flying elbow could be that you are taking the club too much on the inside on the takeaway and then lifting the club too vertically. Or one of the physical reasons could lie with a lack of stability and flexibility in your shoulder joint. If this area is tight then rotation is reduced and the back elbow lifts. Try the following exercises to help improve the flexibility and stabilise this area.
LG pp 20-21 Rushworth Instruction 16/11/2012 16:29 Page 21
STEP ONE – CREATE A BOX BETWEEN THE ARMS
STEP TWO – THE THUMB POINTS DOWNWARDS
Stand with your feet shoulder width apart with your back nice and straight. Raise one arm directly to the side, approximately to shoulder level. Now bend your elbow to 90 degrees with your palm facing down. At this point your elbow should remain at the side of your body in line with and approximately at shoulder level. With the opposite hand, reach across the body and place this hand (palm facing down as well!) directly on top. This will create a box that is formed between the two arms and is the first stage.
Now with the top hand, you are going to push downwards onto the opposite hand as hard as you can without causing any motion or pain. Resist this push with the underneath hand for three seconds. Next rotate the underneath hand so that the thumb is pointing upwards, and repeat the same push downwards onto the lower hand and resist for a count of three. The final bottom hand position is to rotate it so that the thumb is pointing downwards, push down with the top hand for a count of three and resist.
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STEP THREE – PUSH UP Repeat the same three positions, for the same amount of time, but this time push UP with the underneath hand as hard as you can into the top hand which resists, without losing your position. This entire process will then be repeated in the opposite manner on the other side of the body. By Deana Rushworth: Class AA PGA professional and TPI and golf fitness instructor. Deana is based at John Cook’s School of Golf, Witney Lakes Resort in Oxfordshire. www.deanagolfpro.co.uk
Lady Golfer 21
LG pp 22-23 Langford Instruction 16/11/2012 16:29 Page 22
INSTRUCTION
HOOP
dreams How to improve your alignment
GET PARALLEL Parallel alignment is an area of the set-up that often gives women a bit of bother. The majority aim too far to the right, effectively putting the body between the club and the intended target. This results in poor direction, poor striking and loss of power. Here is a simple explanation of how to line up for success. Fix a hoop with some wire so that it stands vertically (best done on the grass). Stand an arm’s length, club length and a pace away from the hoop, so that your club does not hit it on the through swing. Imagine you are hitting or chipping a ball through the middle of the hoop. It is quite obvious that to do this my club has to swing in the direction of the target ie through the hoop in a straight line. So when I take my stance, without even thinking about it, I stand with the line of my feet and shoulders to the side of the hoop to allow the club to swing through it.
LG pp 22-23 Langford Instruction 16/11/2012 16:30 Page 23
CLOSED NO GOOD REMEMBER THE CLUBHEAD Many women intentionally line their feet and shoulders up to the target – which would be fine if we were hitting the ball with our body, but we are trying to hit the ball with a clubhead that is several feet in front of the body
The only way that I can get the ball through the hoop from this (closed) position is to swing around my body as I have put my body on my target line. The clubhead will be travelling in a curve as it hits the ball. I may well get the ball through the hoop but it will travel in a curve to the left whilst it is in the air and for a while after it lands.
LEFT IS BETTER Ideally the line of the feet and shoulders should be parallel to the line that you would like to hit the ball on. If you can’t get parallel then it is better to be slightly left of target (open) as shown here. From this position I still have a chance of swinging the club through the hoop without swinging around my body.
Christine Langford is the Director of Golf at Abbotsley Golf Hotel. For more visit www.abbotsley.com. Clothing courtesy of One Up Golf
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QUICK TIP
Take your hoop to the practice ground and sta rt to get a feel for good alignment, use a 6 or 7 iron to hit shots through the hoop and make sure you stand far enough away that the club do es not hit the hoop but clo se enough that you can see the hoop ou t of the corner of your eye. You will so on be hitting th e ball as straight as an arrow.
Lady Golfer 23
LG pp 24 Adverts 11/16/12 2:20 PM Page 24
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£60: Single room Supplement (for 7 nights) Including: Return Flight + 7 Nights’ Accommodation on all inclusive in the PHENICIA HOTEL 4**** in HAMMAMET + 5 Rounds of competitive golf and playing on the YASMINE Golf Course x 2 + CITRUS Golf x 3 (on the LA FORET Course + LES OLIVIERS Course) + 2 Cocktail Parties + Prizes Presentation Ceremony & Gala Dinner with entertainment & Drinks + 1 Massage of 20 Minutes in the SPA centre of the hotel + Excursion + Airport Transfers + Golf Transfers + Assistance
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Menara Travel Ltd www.morocco4golf.com t: 0207 371 2030 e: info@morocco4golf.com 24 Lady Golfer
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LG pp 25 Columnist KM 16/11/2012 16:32 Page 25
COMMENT - GOLF PSYCHOLOGY
Karl Morris Whatever happens they can’t take your ball away
T has been absolutely fascinating this year working with Super League team Huddersfield Giants on their own Mind Factor in rugby league. To be able to see at first hand the training, application and dedication to the most brutal of sports has been eye-opening. Make no mistake, these players who put their body on the line week in week out, are absolute warriors. It has been amazing how keen the players have been to embrace ideas on how they can improve their game by embracing a better mindset and the skill of focused concentration. It is fascinating to see how much time the coaches have to put in to analysing their opponents each and every week. The amount of study that goes into a gameplan to defeat the opposition is enormously detailed. Observing all of this, it got me thinking how easy, in a sense, we have it at golf. Yet, very often we don’t see it that way and fail to focus appropriately. There is no real opposition in that nobody can tackle you, nobody can punch you, they can’t steal the ball off you or deflect it in any way. But so much of the time I spend coaching golfers, it is about understanding this key point. The only opposition is the course and, if your attention is on anything else other than that and your own gameplan, then you are mentally in the wrong place. So often, people say I am playing in this event or that event but there will be a lot of good players there. So what?! Even Tiger Woods is not allowed to come up to you
I
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Which way? One hole could be the difference in your round
and take your ball away! To understand the simple principle that your attention is either in a place which is useful or not useful is a very powerful concept in becoming the best player you can be. Make sure you take advantage of the fact you are playing a unique game in the sense that nobody else can golf your ball. It is you and your gameplan out there and if you find yourself letting your attention move towards whoever else is playing or what anybody else is likely or not likely to score, then you are in the wrong place mentally. Of course, if you are playing matchplay this is slightly different but even in that scenario, I would argue you will be best suited to play the course rather than the man. With this in mind, I would suggest you begin to really
look at the course, even your home course where you play on a regular basis. Do your game a favour by treating yourself to a walk around your course and look at it through the lens of someone seeing it for the first time. As quirky as this may seem, I promise you that you will see things differently. Even if you have played your home course thousands of times. The problem with our brain is that when we do something over and over again, we just go on to auto pilot and fail to see what is really there. We have a kind of ‘attention blindness’ which comes from repetition and habit. When you walk a course like this, ask yourself ‘what would be the best way for me to play this hole?’ Even if there is only one hole which you see differently and you then approach it
differently, it may just be that one hole in a round of golf that can be the difference between success and failure. As someone once said to me, there is a world of difference between looking at something and really seeing something. Yet, we all fall into the trap of just looking without really seeing in more areas than just our own golf course. It has been a great lesson for me from the world of rugby league to see how attention to detail in the right areas can have such a big impact. I have no doubt if we take this principle out on to the course, we will see the course and our own game in a somewhat different light.
Karl Morris Karl has a series of products and services for golfers of all levels. For more details visit www.golf-brain.com
Lady Golfer 25
LG pp 26 Columnist JS 11/16/12 4:47 PM Page 26
COMMENT CHI POWER GOLF: GIVING YOU THE TOOLS TO PERFORM UNDER PRESSURE
Jayne Storey Tai Chi, Ben Hogan and the slow-motion swing drill
HE Tai Chi approach used in chi-power GOLF is echoed in the practice method of Ben Hogan who famously used a slow-motion swing to develop what is arguably the most archetypal swing. This practice of moving slowly is adopted throughout the East, where even an everyday activity such as walking is slowed right down to become a method of meditation in Buddhist monasteries. So, how can swinging in slow motion actually improve your game and where did Hogan get the idea of practising slowly from? Hogan practically invented the notion of practice in golf and his level of dedication (which is as legendary as his actual swing) resulted in Tiger Woods saying that Hogan was able to understand his swing more than most players will ever understand theirs. Hogan practised in slow motion precisely because he was able to feel, sense and become aware of what was working and what wasn’t in his swing – even to the point of jumping out of bed in the middle of the night to practise in front of the wardrobe mirror as a sudden inspiration took hold, before heading out onto the range early the next day to groove his new level of understanding. As with most Eastern techniques that were once thought of as a bit left-field, moving in slow motion has now been proven by neuroscience to have specific benefits due to its particular effect on the brain and the mind-body connection, such that the neural connections
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26 Lady Golfer
associated with movement are known to get stronger as more detailed and refined information becomes available to the brain to build the movement map. Champion athletes from many sports use the slowmovement approach in training sessions, notably Jonny Wilkinson in rugby and Monica Seles in tennis. By slowing down you can sense differences in muscular effort, which in turn increases your brain’s ability to correct any postural and movement imbalances. Your proprioceptive map – the physical areas of your brain responsible for sensing and controlling movement – develops stronger neural linkages in response to slowmotion activity and the resulting sensory feedback that occurs. Seen in this light, the term ‘grooving your swing’ really should be taken literally. Understand your swing by performing it slowly will help you groove a swing that is as consistent as your own signature. Constant repetition of the 1.8 seconds that make up a typical swing offers neither the time nor the space for you to develop the qualities of attention and awareness that are essential to improvement. Slow, gentle movement can make your internal swing map that much clearer.
The slow motion drill Set up to the ball and take a few deep breaths into your centre. Swing as slowly as possible staying relaxed throughout the motion, breathing normally.
Find the swing Tiger gets the feel without a club in his hands
Take at least one minute to complete your swing, without resisting the slowness or anticipating the finish.
responds to your lower body when you relax, as opposed to deliberately moving through various swing positions.
Time yourself using the stopwatch function on your mobile. A minute is much longer than it seems.
When you can comfortably take one minute to perform your swing, try it with your eyes closed! This will really test your 3D proprioception map!
Fully engage with the balance and rhythm of your swing, paying particular attention to your lower body (feet and legs). Feel how your upper body (waist, shoulders and arms)
Jayne Storey To contact Jayne call 07986 447 250 or visit the chi-power GOLF website www.chipowergolf.com
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LG pp 27 CM Sonning 11/16/12 4:46 PM Page 27
WORKING
the angles
CO MANAGURSE EMENT
A dogleg like this offers the golfer a wealth of choices, says Sarah Gallagher
Key
w
O be successful at this tricky dogleg, you need to match your ability to the difficulty of the hole to avoid wasting shots. Play to your strengths – know your yardages and limitations, and use clubs you are confident with
T
20+ handicap The first obstacles to avoid are the two streams playing at 90 and 100 yards. Don’t even risk bringing them into play. Hit an 80-yard tee shot, and from here, a conservative 80-yard shot will place you at the corner of the dogleg. Although the fairways are surrounded by trees, there are no hazards on the fairways, so keep out of trouble and plot your way to the green in three shots, making good use of your handicap allowance.
High Mid Low
8–20 handicap The hole doglegs to the left, but trying to cut off too much of the dogleg could land you in trouble. If you aren’t accurate, you can run out of fairway, so the sensible option is to play a 160-yard tee shot to the corner of the dogleg, leaving you 200 to the green. Your third shot could save your par, so leave yourself your favourite yardage to the green. Take the greenside bunker out of play by aiming to the middle of the green.
Up to 8 handicap A right-to-left ball flight will cut out the dogleg and set you up for a relatively short second shot. Aim for the centre of the green as the entrance of the green slopes away, and your ball will filter back onto the fairway. This hole offers a definite chance to pick up a birdie if you hit a good tee shot.
17th Sonning 360 yards, p ar 4
n Sarah Gallagher is a PGA professional at Lightwood Driving Range in Staffordshire 01782 335 812
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Lady Golfer 27
LG pp 28-29 Equipment 11/16/12 4:45 PM Page 28
EQUIPMENT
BENROSS Jewel Pearl Irons ED REVIAEDW ELEINE BY M NETT WIN
I’M prepared to accept that the very first shot I hit with these irons – a mishit – was entirely my fault, as the ball I immediately hit afterwards, with the same 7 iron, rifled its way to four feet from the pin! I then proceeded to hit the rest of the shots happily quite well also, so they definitely grew on me. The colour is very striking – two-tone cream and purple – and the grip is great. Perfect size and well contoured. The shaft wasn’t as flexible as I was expecting, which I particularly liked, and I was very impressed by the distance. The strike is very solid, and it was easy to shape the ball. With the thick top line and deep cavity backs, they remind you that these are game-improver irons. But they perform like quality irons – albeit at a bargain price! SRP: £349 (6-SW)
REVI
EWED BY MAD E WINNELTEINE T
IEWEEINDE REV MADEL BY
T WINNET
SRIXON Lady Soft Feel Balls
PROQUIP Olivia Sweater
As soon as autumn strikes, I swap to this ball. It’s firmer than I would naturally opt to use in summer – although most mid to high handicappers would have no trouble using it then – but I find the higher ball flight a bonus. It retains the soft feel, which I particularly like for the short game, but remains truer on the greens once they start to get a bit bumpy, than the high end, dedicated soft balls. Excellent all-round performer, especially for ladies. SRP £26.99
If you are loathe to go to the hassle of donning waterproofs for a shower or light rain, then this is perfect – a waterrepellent jumper! Lambswool often itches me if I don’t wear long sleeves under it, but this doesn’t. It is beautifully soft, lightweight, not remotely bulky, and comes in six attractive colours. Many of my golf tops can’t be tumble-dried, but tumbledrying and ironing actively help to maintain the waterproofing. Excellent! Available in sizes S – XXL. SRP: £49
28 Lady Golfer
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LG pp 28-29 Equipment 11/16/12 4:45 PM Page 29
LADIES WHO LAUNCH
ISMART Sport Massager
REVI
EWED When I heard this was the must have item BY MAD E WINNELTEINE that Catriona Matthew and many tour pros T wouldn’t leave home without, I couldn’t wait to try it. Then I lent it to Alison Nicholas, and she immediately wanted one! I couldn’t believe how powerful something smaller than a credit card could be. I could only get to level 3 of the 10 intensities! As I get very stiff shoulders driving, I tried it on a long journey, and it honestly felt like someone was sitting behind me kneading my shoulders in a rolling motion. Great for warming up en route to playing, or for relieving stiffness and muscle fatigue afterwards. Under a partnership arrangement with the LGU, a discount code is available through the LGU website. Use code lgu1893 when placing your order on the I-Smart website www.ismartmassager.co.uk SRP: £79.99
TAYLORMADE RBZ Hybrid With strong, fast-swinging lady golfers in mind, Madeleine reviews clubs designed for men It’s a very eye-catching design. I’m used to the white heads now, but this looks great with the black, white and green shaft and grip. The head is small and neat, and it sits really nicely behind the ball at address. The regular shaft I tried did feel quite stiff, but it is still quite easy to shape the ball and the strike is really solid. At this loft (19˚), there is still plenty of height on the ball and, more often than not, I managed to produce an effortless draw as well. Admittedly, I didn’t try it from out of the rough, as I was at the range, but there’s nothing to let me think this wouldn’t be a very useful hybrid or replacement fairway wood to have in your bag. SRP: £139
YOUR
VIEW
Ann Swan, who plays off 28, tests one of the new Ping Serene 5 woods
POWAKADDY Sport The superbly engineered Sport combines the latest lightweight and super-strength materials. It is extremely stable, manoeuvrable and has removable wheels allowing easy three-way folding to fit into the smallest of car boots. SRPs: Lithium £649, Lithium EBS £729, Lead Acid 18 £429, Lead Acid 36 £479. Lithium Battery and Charger £274 (not including trolley) • In last month’s magazine we mistakenly quoted only the price for the battery and charger alone. The correct prices are as above. Apologies for any confusion
www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
Although I found the grip of the club somewhat small for my slightly arthritic fingers, the general balance of the club was very good throughout the swing. The weight in the head helped to keep a smooth action and certainly added extra length to the shot without extra effort. This club was suitable to use on the fairway and also in the first cut of the rough, although it did have a slight inbuilt draw. Apart from the head cover being very tight to get on – and I don’t like purple – I really liked it. Overall, a very nice, forgiving club with which to play. PING Serene Fairway Wood SRP: £159
Lady Golfer 29
LG pp 30-31 Winter Shoes 11/16/12 4:41 PM Page 30
EQUIPMENT
WINTER SHOES Madeleine Winnett on waterproof models that don’t compromise on style
FOOTJOY DryJoys Without question, these are the most stable FootJoy shoes I have ever tried. I love the Boa lacing system with the dial at the back – not just for the novelty value of dispensing with laces, but for the evenness of pressure they exert when you tighten them, and the added stability that gives. Supremely comfortable with generous cushioning round the heel area, wide fitting and very light. These are serious golf shoes where comfort and performance marry at the highest level. SRP: £105
SERIOUS PERFORMERS
ECCO Biom SO SOFT
These are a superb combination of stability and comfort. The leather – which comes from yaks is beautifully soft, and although the cushioning underfoot feels quite firm, they are still very comfortable to walk in. The traction is very good and the shoes are very light. Available in three colours, but I particularly I like the black/purple combination for winter. If your budget extends to the price, you won’t be disappointed by either the feel or performance! SRP: £175
A DAINTY CHOICE
ADIDAS Signature Natalie 2 These are definitely the neatest looking shoes. I know I’m writing about winter shoes, but being so dainty they’d also look great with shorts! I really liked the Mark 1 version of these, except for the tongue being too short. That has been modified, so they now have my full, unreserved seal of approval! Not quite as soft and well cushioned underfoot as the Paulas, but great styling, traction and stability. Quite narrow and you need to order half a size larger. SRP: £69.99
FOOTJOY LoPro Collection There won’t be many more stylish shoes than these. Very dapper! I love the shape with the square toe, and they are generously wide fitting, but still look incredibly neat. I’m not one to lavish praise on pink, but the pink patent inserts look fantastic (other colours available!) They feel quite firm underfoot, and the traction is good. SRP: £77.50
ALL-ROUND STYLE
LG pp 30-31 Winter Shoes 11/16/12 4:42 PM Page 31
WHAT I
PUMA Golf Cat 2 The box said, “versatile design for on and off course”, so I immediately wore them round the house, went shopping, and then played golf – and I was extremely comfortable in all three environments. Technically, they’re from the 2013 spring/summer collection, rather than winter, and they are water-resistant, not waterproof. They are fabulously comfortable and the traction is excellent – much better than I anticipated – although I would prefer more stability and support throughout the swing. Great two-in-one shoes for holiday. SRP: £60
NIKE Lunar Brassie
LEARNED WHAT A CHOICE Ladies’ shoes are just getting better and better! There is such a range here from ultra chic and stylish, to supreme comfort, to allday shoes for use on and off the course.
VERSATILE CHOICE
VERY LIGHT
These are amazingly light shoes. I opted for black and white, which certainly stand out, and seem very bright with the patent inserts. The integrated traction system is highly unusual. At first glance the sole, with its limited number of seemingly shallow soft spikes, doesn’t look as though it will provide much traction. But, the horizontal bars across do work very effectively and provide a surprising amount of grip and stability. SRP: £80
FOOTJOY Contour IV If comfort is your main priority, then these shoes feel like you are walking round in a pair of slippers. They are very neat looking, and the patterned, swirled detail is very attractive. The tongue is very soft and well padded, and the traction is very good. The stability is noticeably less than in the DryJoys, so you can feel your foot moving slightly. However, most won’t even notice this as an issue as they will be enjoying the comfort! SRP: £90
GREAT QUALITY I genuinely liked every pair here, and with different manufacturers catering for wide and narrow feet, there is something here for everyone. Ladies’ footwear has never looked so good, or performed so well across the board before!
ULTIMATE COMFORT
ADIDAS Signature Paula 2 I have rarely been separated from the previous version of these shoes for the last two years, and I’m sure I will feel the same about the updated model. I’m not entirely sure about the addition of the small bows on the heel but the exceptional combination of comfort, stability and traction remain everything I have come to expect.
FEELING STABLE The biggest improvement is the attention to more stability in many of these shoes, while still making them comfortable and attractive, which will be particularly appreciated by those who build their swing from the ground upwards.
COMFORT & STABILITY
LG pp 32-33 Fashion 11/16/12 4:37 PM Page 32
EQUIPMENT
KNITWEAR AND WINTER WARMTH
FASHION
Take your pick from bold primary colours and softer pastels 1
2
1. GOLFINO Green label Argyle slipover £129
2. GLENMUIR Tippi cotton sweater £60
3. GALVIN GREEN Cathy knitted sweater £79
4. GALVIN GREEN Debra Insula £99
5. PING COLLECTION Electra sweater £70 (lined), £60 (unlined)
6. ONE UP GOLF Pearl Baby crew neck £62
7. GLENMUIR Daisy lambswool sweater £83
8. ONE UP GOLF Enya £65
3 4
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LG pp 32-33 Fashion 11/16/12 4:38 PM Page 33
9. LYLE & SCOTT
10. SUNICE
11. TOMMY HILFIGER GOLF
Crew necked striped pullover £95
Leah windstopper cardigan £154.99
Victory sweater £85
10
11
9
6
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7
8
Lady Golfer 33
LG pp 34-37 Gifts & Shops 11/16/12 4:39 PM Page 34
EQUIPMENT
TOP SHOPS Here are some of our favourite places to go when looking for a special treat
ROYAL MID SURREY Where can I find them: Golf club near Richmond What do they sell: This is Golfino’s biggest golf club outlet and with two female PGA professionals it is the ideal place to shop and take lessons. You will find a fantastic range of top-class ladies’ clothing here. Which brands do they stock: Golfino (pictured) , Chervo, Masters, Galvin Green, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Daily Sports, Rohnisch, Green Lamb, Under Armour, FootJoy, Ecco, Cutter & Buck, Pret a Golf and Glenmuir www.rmsgc.co.uk
ONE UP GOLF Where can I find them: Online What do they sell: One Up Golf have their own desirable clothing range (pictured) and also stock many of the leading ladies’ apparel brands. Which brands do they stock: EP Pro, Alice Collins, Sunice, Green Lamb, Stormtech, Sunderland, 1,000 Mile, Kasco, Mycoal, Sealskinz, Tracer www.oneupgolf.co.uk
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LG pp 34-37 Gifts & Shops 11/16/12 4:39 PM Page 35
RED TEE GOLF
SCOTTS OF ALNWICK
Where can I find them? Formby Golf Centre What do they sell? Waterproofs, jumpers and jackets to name but a few Which brands do they stock? Nike, Galvin Green (pictured), Puma, FootJoy and Rohnisch www.redteegolf.co.uk 01704 875 952
Where can I find them? At their Northumberland shop in Bondgate Within, Alnwick, or online What do they sell? Scotts specialise in selling ladies’ golf clothing, equipment and accessories. They have a wide range of garments available Which brands do they stock? Green Lamb, Daily Sports, Alice Collins, Glenmuir, Lija, Lyle & Scott (pictured), Under Armour, Ecco & Stuburt www.scottsofalnwick.co.uk 01665 606 666
SURPRIZESHOP.CO.UK
SPORT A LA MODE
Where can I find them? Online What do they sell: An amazing range of golf gifts and accessories, from ball markers, like the festive cards and ball markers pictured to jewellery, luggage and prize tables for your captain’s day. www.surprizeshop.co.uk
Where can I find them? Online What do they sell: A huge range of ladies’ clothing and accessories Which brands do they stock: Daily Sports, Green Lamb, Glenmuir, Lyle & Scott, Callaway, Cutter & Buck, Ashworth (pictured) and many more. www.sportalamode.com
www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
Lady Golfer 35
LG pp 34-37 Gifts & Shops 11/16/12 4:39 PM Page 36
EQUIPMENT
gifts Christmas
fe ur li o y in ers f l o g r the o f as Ide
GROOVEFIX GIFT PACK This 100 per cent British-made tool will clean and restore your grooves to their original sharpness. The GreenFix pitch repairer includes a magnetic ball marker and you can use the handy club rest to keep your grips dry. SRP: £24.99 www.groovefix.com
GREENFREE 2FOR1GIFT PACKS These two gift packs make the ideal present for any golfer. Available in five-voucher or 10-voucher packs (the latter includes a free GreenFree directory). SRP: Five-voucher pack £14.95, 10-voucher pack £24.95 www.greenfree.co.uk
SCOTTY DOG GOODY BAG Includes club-face cleaner, retractable pitchfork, pencil and pencil sharpener, permanent marker pen, ball marker liner and tees. Comes with a personalised card. SRP: £10 www. scottydoggolf.com
INFINITY PRO SPORT WRISTBAND With an output of over 4,000 negative ions, Infinity Pro sport wristbands kick out more ions than any other brand. Negative ions and Magnetic Therapy may promote good heath through the application of ions and magnetic fields to the blood flow. Use discount code LADYGOLFER20 for 20 per cent off online. SRP: From £19.99 www.infinitypro.com
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LG pp 34-37 Gifts & Shops 11/16/12 4:39 PM Page 37
NORTHCROFT BALL LIFTER PLUS EFFORTLESS BALL & MARKER LIFTING Accurate marker placement without bending. Will fit ALL putters regardless of grip size (including ‘Two Thumb’) Allows putter to be stored in dedicated sleeve on your golf bag
PLACING MARKER
LIFTING THE MARKER
CLIP ON CLIP OFF
£10.95 including VAT & delivery For more Information or to order visit www.northcroftgolf.com or Telephone 01488 685038
NORTHCROFT TEE-UP
CONTINUE TO ENJOY THE GAME YOU LOVE • Places your Ball and Tee-peg on the Tee without Bending • Retrieves your Tee-peg • The Stabilizer assists with loading the Ball and Tee-peg • The Stabilizer creates greater stability, accuracy and ease of use • Comes with Retrieval Loop • Other product combinations available. Visit our website for a full video presentation • £49.70 including VAT & delivery
For more Information or to order Visit www.northcroftgolf.com or Telephone 01488 685038 www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
Lady Golfer 37
LG pp 38-39 Shop Directory 11/16/12 3:56 PM Page 38
TOP SHOP DIRECTORY
www.redteegolf.co.uk
Have you ever played the ultimate golf shot & had a
HOLE-IN-ONE?
Red Tee Specialist in ladies golf wear, shoes & accessories Fashionable golf wear from Puma, Adidas, Rohnisch, Galvin Green, Proquip & other leading brands. Men's range inc. Puma, Galvin Green, IJP Design, Adidas & Proquip Junior range inc. Puma, Adidas, Galvin Green & IJP Design TaylorMade and Cobra custom fitting available Taylormade, Rife, Yes Putters & Bushnell Products Formby Golf Centre, Moss Side, Formby, Merseyside L37 0AF follow us on twitter @redteegolf
Tel: 01704 875952
LADY TURQUOISE-STYLE 220
CLASSIC COPPER-STYLE C2
EXECUTIVE RUBBER/STAINLESS-STYLE 353
For our latest catalogue please call our freephone on
0800 374 976 www.sabona.co.uk info@sabona.co.uk Sabona Rheumatic Relief Co Ltd, Unit 12 | Carlton Park Ind. Estate | Saxmundham | Suffolk | IP17 2NL
38 Lady Golfer
www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
LG pp 38-39 Shop Directory 11/16/12 3:56 PM Page 39
Number 1 in the North East for Ladies golf & casual wear
WINTER COLLECTIONS AVAILABLE NOW Featuring Green Lamb, Daily Sports, Glenmuir, JRB, Strawberry Bay, Under Armour and ECCO.
View the Collections at
www.scottsofalnwick.co.uk or call in at 5-7 Bondgate Within, Alnwick NE66 1SX
Tel: 01665 606666 THE PROFESSIONAL SHOP AT...
ROYAL MID-SURREY GC COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS BEGINS
West London’s Finest Golf Store
Images courtesy of GOLFINO
• GOLFINO’S biggest golf club outlet • A spectacular newly refitted shop • Special offers every week leading up to Christmas • Two female PGA Professionals • In shop ‘Performance Studio’ for the ultimate club fitting experience and state of the art teaching • Generous loyalty card scheme with added benefits • Innovative online teaching with GASP Systems ‘EBook’
Nominated for Pro Shop Europe Awards ‘Pro Shop of the Year’ Ladies Clothing from GOLFINO, Chervo, Masters, Galvin Green, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Daily Sports, Rohnisch, Green Lamb, Under Armour, Footjoy, Ecco Shoes, Cutter & Buck, Pret a Golf and Glenmuir
proshop@matthewpaget.co.uk • www.matthewpaget.co.uk • 020 8939 0148 • Richmond TW9 2SB
www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
Lady Golfer 39
East Lothian 11/16/12 2:21 PM Page 1
LG pp 41 Lead to Play Away 11/16/12 4:35 PM Page 41
PLAY AWAY Exciting desinations I Great courses I Deals and special offers I Area focuses I The Course Directory
BOWOOD HOTEL, GOLF & SPA RESORT Wiltshire THE stunning Wiltshire countryside provides the setting for Bowood Hotel, Golf & Spa Resort, which is the perfect destination for a short break. Whether you are in search of a family holiday, a romantic weekend away or a golf trip with your friends, Bowood has all the bases covered. Whatever the reason for your visit, make sure you take the chance to play the championship course and set in undulating woodland. Off the course, there is a luxury spa and gym complete with a crystal steam room, rock sauna, aromatherapy showers and pool. Packages at Bowood start at only £30 per person for coffee, golf and a meal. For groups of 12 or more rates start from only £40 per person for coffee, 18 holes and a three-course meal. www.bowood-hotel.co.uk 01249 823 881
Rolling 9th A glorious end to the back nine
GREY OWL GOLF
Champs de Bataille - France
Let us organise your bespoke golfing break FRANCE • BELGIUM • SPAIN • ITALY Contact Bill Anslow - Tel: 01206 841994 • Fax: 01206 841995 Email: bill@greyowlgolf.com • Web: www.greyowlgolf.com www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
Lady Golfer 41
LG pp 42-43 Mauritius 11/16/12 4:31 PM Page 42
PLAY AWAY
ISLAND
GREENS Chris Bertram travelled to Mauritius and was charmed by Le Touessrok’s golf and the Long Beach resort
STILL E? OR holidays WANT M ation on
er inform us visit ti to Mauri auritius.mu. h m-m s ri u o .t ng Beac www s on Lo er detail srok, visit h rt fu r o F Toues om and Le hotels.c nresorts 3 265 u .s w w 8 w 1753 8 or call 0
For furth
Beauty spot It is often tricky to keep your mind on the job
42 Lady Golfer
OFF THE COURSE IN MAURITIUS
OTHER GOLF ATTRACTIONS
The north of the island was the first to be developed so is home to beaches, accommodation, watersports, shopping and entertainment. Some of the best beaches are on the east coast, including Blue Bay and its marine reserve while Trou d’Eau Douce is the main set-off point for Île aux Cerfs (Le Touessrok). The west and south west is where you find Flic en Flac, whose beaches are a magnet for swimmers and snorkelers while former fishing villages Grande Rivière Noire and Tamarin are now popular deep-sea finishing spots.
Major champions Ernie Els and Bernhard Langer have designed courses on Mauritius, helping the island to be named 2008 Golf Destination of the Year in Africa, the Indian Ocean and the Gulf States by IAGTO. There are older clubs such as Gymkhana and Le Saint Geran but the best tracks are Le Touessrok, Belle Mare Plage, Paradis, Anahita and Tamarina. In short, even the most discerning golfer could not fail to be impressed by the options available on this tiny island.
www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
LG pp 42-43 Mauritius 11/16/12 4:33 PM Page 43
HERE are some views one could never tire of. The one as you sit on the small boat which takes you from Trou d’Eau Douce to Île aux Cerfs is one. As you set off for the tiny island which houses the magical Le Touessrok course, you would have to have woken up in an especially bad mood to be anything other than grateful to be alive. It is a journey of around 10 minutes and it is blissful. Partly because of the sensational surroundings, partly because of the anticipation of the treat in store and partly because of your unusual mode of transport to the 1st tee. There is also, I think, a pleasure in observing the faces of other golfers from all parts of the world enjoying this journey. This Bernhard Langer design is attached to two five-star resorts – the one of the same name on the mainland and the new Long Beach resort just a few miles north. It is resort golf but not as we know it. You must not be greedy and should hit lofted fairway woods, hybrids and irons off the tee; you need to find the fairway, because if you don’t a lost ball is likely. Sometimes you may decide to lay up on a par 4 if it leaves you too far back to reach the green; in fact that is often a good idea because Langer has created the smallest greens you’ve ever missed. And if you miss them, even by three feet, you may have lost your ball. It is at times overly penal, but it is always fascinating. As it happens, we play quite nicely, all the while delighting ourselves in the knowledge the pros who are competing in the Standard Bank Mauritius Open the following day are playing this brute off the tips. Last year, Tom Lewis breezed round here in level. The next day, with victory seeming a mere formality, he butchered two holes by all accounts and couldn’t break 80.
T And relax You won’t struggle to unwind and take it easy
Water world The setting here is like nowhere else
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The return sailing gives us time to reflect on the unique experience; no one has a negative thought. That may, of course, have something to do with the knowledge of what awaits us at our hotel, Long Beach. The buffet. Not just any buffet, either. This one is immense. The Savoy of buffets. The Harrods of buffets. Le Marche is one of five eating options at Long Beach. To give a balanced view, we did of course try them all. But the buffet – encompassing everything from Mauritian favourites to Asian food – was the best. However, if you like Italian, Japanese, Chinese or steaks, you will be well catered for. Afterwards, we watch entertainment – including dance routines which made one feel distinctly unathletic and lazy – while savouring some of Long Beach’s short drinks. Long Beach is a relatively new hotel and is part of the same group, Sun Resorts, which run the hotel and course at Le Touessrok, which is just a 10-minute transfer. It is a chic, stylish and modern resort for chic, stylish people. Tennis courts, a gym, climbing wall and extensive water sports are all available to sate the thirst of the energetic while there are numerous wellappointed pools and lots of comfortable sun beds. And a first-class spa. The waiter service is also commendable; there is no waiting for half an hour for your drink here. Five minutes after ordering, a tall Mauritian will be standing over you with said beverage. Indeed the service generally at Long Beach is outstanding. This is helped by the fact the Mauritius people are inherently friendly and helpful and these characteristics transfer perfectly to making guests feel at ease. Indeed, the reinvigoration of a week at Long Beach lasted long after the 11-hour flight back to London Heathrow.
Lady Golfer 43
LG pp 44-45 Membership Offers 11/16/12 4:26 PM Page 44
MEMBERSHIP ISSUE
MEMBERSHIP
OFFERS We outline some great deals available for the new year
BOWOOD PARK
BOWOOD PARK
SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE
THE ROXBURGHE
CLEOBURY MORTIMER
Set in the heart of North Cornwall amongst 230 acres of rolling hills and woodland, this course is expertly designed to test golfers of all abilities. The greens are amongst the best in Britain. What they offer: • Full membership – £540 • Junior memberships from just £45 • Taster memberships available 10 trial rounds for just £190 Nearest town: Newhall Green
Considered by many to be one of the finest courses in the Midlands, this 6,587-yard par 71 is maintained to the highest standards and possesses interesting and challenging holes. What they offer: • Full membership – £1,075 • Staggered discounts for 18-29 year olds • Junior memberships from £53 • Fairway Credit Scheme Nearest town: Wolverhampton
A rolling, tactically demanding layout with spectacular views. This Dave Thomas-designed course represents modern golfing architecture at its very best, and sets up extremely well for the club player. What they offer: • Full membership – £830 • 50% off for 18-30 year olds • unior membership only £150 • Special corporate memberships available Nearest town: Kelso
Nestled in the Wkye Forest lies one of the best complexes in Shropshire. It is hard to believe this cleverly designed and scenic course is only 20 years old and, what is better still, there are 27 holes to make the most of. What they offer: • No joining fee • Full membership – £702.90 • Free golf at 27 other top UK clubs for members Nearest town: Kidderminster
SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE
44 Lady Golfer
THE ROXBURGHE
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LG pp 44-45 Membership Offers 11/16/12 4:26 PM Page 45
BULWELL FOREST
MALTON AND NORTON FRILFORD HEATH
MANOR
Set on mature heathland, the oldest course in Nottingham sprawls across undulating countryside and has many tight fairways, old trees and excellently manicured greens. What they offer: • New lady members - £299 • Membership for married couples - £650 • Alternative payment schemes available Nearest town: Nottingham
Once described by Peter Allis as “North Yorkshire’s hidden gem”, this 27-hole complex is ideally situated between York and Scarborough and boasts magnificent views of the North Yorkshire Moors. What they offer: • Flexible membership scheme based on a pay-asyou-play system • No limitations on timings for flexible members • Unlimited amount of rounds for flexible members. Nearest town: Malton
One of Staffordshire’s hidden gems in the heart of the countryside, Manor boasts picturesque views and an abundance of wildlife. A challenging traditionally English course awaits players. What they offer: • No joining fees. • Full membership - £599 Under 15s with a member parent or grandparent joins free •If you live within a mile you can join for as little as £300 Nearest town: Stoke-on-Trent
HEVER CASTLE Hever Castle allows women to play in competition and has a ladies’ class at their school. What they offer: • Children of 7-day members can play for free • Flexible memberships allow you to “pay for what you pay” • Pathways scheme allows easy integration into the club • 24 hours of members only time on championship course Nearest town: Royal Tunbridge Wells
With three outstanding courses to call on, Frilford Heath offers 54 holes of sheer class. It is renowned for the quality of its short holes and the fairways are lined by gorse and pine trees. What they offer: • Full membership - £1,650 (excluding VAT) • Senior memberships from £412 • Staggered discounts for 19-30 year olds. • Junior membership - £330 Nearest town: Oxford
MALTON AND NORTON
FRILFORD HEATH
HEVER CASTLE GOLF CLUB Hever Road | Hever | Edenbridge | Kent | TN8 7NP WWW.HEVER.CO.UK
LADIES SECTION Warmly invites Lady Golfers & those wishing to learn Golf to visit the Club for a special Ladies Preview available any day of the week, where you can choose from;
18 HOLES ON OUR CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE @ £20.00PP 9 HOLES ON OUR 9 HOLE COURSE @ £9.00PP Or
A GOLF TASTER SESSION WITH CASTLE GOLF SCHOOL @ £10.00 To book simply contact the Club Office on 01732 701004 or e-mail pholder@hever.co.uk
There are opportunities for Ladies to join & learn the game at our vibrant, & inclusive modern Club, so why not take this opportunity to take a look?
www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
Lady Golfer 45
LG pp 46-50 Course Directory 11/16/12 4:24 PM Page 46
GREATBRITIAN
NEWS IN BRIEF
MATTHEW EDGED OUT IN KOREA SCOTLAND’S Catriona Matthew was edged out by Suzann Pettersen to the LPGA HanaBank Championship title in South Korea. The Norwegian prevailed on the third playoff hole after Matthew had reeled in her seven-shot lead on the final day. CLUB RAISES £4500 FOR CHILDREN’S CANCER CHARITY A CHARITY golf day at Pitlochry in aid of the UK’s leading children’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent has raised almost £4500 to help young sufferers and their families. Club officials were overwhelmed by the support received by the 22 teams who participated in the Stableford competition. WOODHALL SPA TO HOST COACHING CONFERENCE ENGLAND Golf has announced that their annual two-day coaching conference will be held at Woodhall Spa. The event offers coaches the chance to exchange ideas on coaching and programmes. The event will take place on January 10. w: englandgolf.org/events
Course directory PLAY AND STAY: TRETHORNE OFFERING a challenging and beautifully maintained course along with a vibrant and friendly atmosphere, Trethorne is the perfect place to escape to. The club is set in the picturesque Cornish countryside on the border between Devon and Cornwall. The club prides itself on maintaining excellent all-year-round greens, making it a perfect venue during the winter months.
EXTRA SUPPORT FOR YOUNGSTERS YOUNG Scottish golfers have been bolstered in their bid for Olympic, Paralympic and Commonwealth success thanks to scholarships. Golfers who combine training with studying will receive tailored support in 2013. Gemma Bradbury, Gabrielle MacDonald, Ailsa Summers (University of St Andrews) and Eilidh Briggs, Kelsey MacDonald and Hannah McCook (University of Stirling) will receive the support.
Commenting on a visit, Windsor Golf Society said: “If you are looking for a golf break for a group, look no further. The staff are great, nothing too much trouble, good golf and good food.” The club ensures that they set out to deliver an experience beyond any expectations. Also the venue provides excellent value for money in a stunning location all year round.
FILEY BECOMES 600TH GOLFMARK CLUB FILEY has become the 600th club to achieve the GolfMark, England Golf’s award for junior and beginner-friendly facilities. The GolfMark scheme, which incorporates Sport England’s Clubmark award, was launched in 2006. “We are very, very pleased to have GolfMark,” said John Spaven. “It is extra special to be the 600th club and we are really pleased to receive this recognition. It has been two years’ hard work and we appreciate the support we have had from Richard Brown, our regional development officer from England Golf.”
Ladies Special Offer! Complimentary glass of wine per person with dinner
46 Lady Golfer
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LG pp 46-50 Course Directory 11/16/12 4:24 PM Page 47
Seascale Golf Club
Winter 2012/2013 Green Fee rates
Mon - Fri: Round £25.00 • Sat, Sun & B.H: Round £27.50
Late Start Deals - available from just £12.50 FourBall Special - £90 includes 18 holes, soup and sandwiches (Mon-Fri only) Both subject to availability and prior booking
Please call for details of all our special packages
Tel: 019467 28202 Sec - See website for details of our Winter Opens Email: seascalegolfclub@googlemail.com www.seascalegolfclub.co.uk The Banks, Seascale, Cumbria CA20 1QL
FREE GOLF GOL
AWARD D
5 STAR ccccc COMMENDED HOTEL & LUXURY LOG HOMES TO RENT
Close to Poole & Bournemouth • 2 Fantastic Golf Courses • Dinner, Bed, Breakfast & Free Golf from £67.95pppn 12 Luxury Detached Log Homes to rent. Min 2 night, sleeps 8, sauna, log stoves.
You won’t be disappointed!
CALL TODAY 01929 472 244
Three great courses One great price 3 rounds of golf 2 nights accommodation From
£179 per person
www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
Lady Golfer 47
LG pp 46-50 Course Directory 11/16/12 4:24 PM Page 48
COURSE DIRECTORY
Craigielaw Golf Club A B E R L A DY | E A S T LOT H I A N | S COT L A N D | E H 3 2 0 P Y
…truly a golfer’s paradise
Opening soon our 25 bedroom golf lodge… Great play and stay packages available More details from our site www.craigielawlodge.com
Isle of Purbeck Golf Club
www.purbeckgolf.co.uk 01929 450354
Winter Golf from Nov 1st 4 Ball for £100 inc morning coffee, bacon bap, 18 holes and a one plate meal after play. Tee off before 11am
Tel: 01875 870 800 Email: info@craigielawgolfclub.com www.craigielawgolfclub.com
Ladies Coffee Morning and Golf Monday 15th April 2013 Cost is £15.00 County Cards accepted please phone for details Now available to book online at www.purbeckgolf.co.uk Check the website for special deals and Open details Clubhouse now open to non-members for bar and restaurant meals
“Roxburghe’s signature hole, The Viaduct, is my favourite 14th tee in Scotland! It’s such a beautiful hole in such a glorious setting” Sam Torrance
Society Packages now available from £49 per person (Runs from 1st October 2012 until the end of March 2013) Winter 4 Ball £140 including Soup & Sandwiches (from 1st November 2012 until end of March 2013) Book online and receive exclusive discounts For further details please call Craig or Steve at The Professional Shop on 01573 450 333
Qualifying School Venue - 1st Stage 2012
48 Lady Golfer
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LG pp 46-50 Course Directory 11/16/12 4:25 PM Page 49
BULWELL FOREST HUCKNALL ROAD, BULWELL, NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
Come and visit Nottingham’s Oldest Golf Course
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SOCIETY PACKAGES Groups of 6 - 11 Save 20% Groups of 12 - 17 Save 25% Groups of 18 - 23 Save 30% Groups of 24+ Save 40%
SAVE £££! Email us at secretary@bulwellforestgolfclub.co.uk
Call us today on 0115 976 3172 Visit our website for online bookings
www.bulwellforestgolfclub.co.uk 2 Day Golf Break to include:
BOWOOD PARK HOTEL
1 Nights Bed & Breakfast 1, Three Course Evening meal 2 Rounds of Golf May – September inclusive: £105pp
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Available midweek or weekends
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3 Day Golf Break to include: 2 Nights Bed & Breakfast 2, Three Course Evening Meals 3 Rounds of Golf May – September inclusive: £159pp
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Available midweek or weekends
4 Day Golf Break to include: 3 Nights Bed & Breakfast 3, Three Course Evening Meals 4 Rounds of Golf May – September inclusive: £219pp Available midweek or weekends
Additional golf break benefits in 2012: Organiser FREE OF CHARGE for groups of 16 and above
• All package tariffs above are based on 2 people sharing a twin/double room. • Single room upgrades incur a supplement of 50% of the per person package price. • 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
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LG pp 46-50 Course Directory 11/16/12 4:25 PM Page 50
COURSE DIRECTORY
Cannock Park Golf Course
Weekday 4 Ball £40.00 after 12pm £30.00
Weekend 4 Ball £50.00 after 12pm £40.00 Must be pre-booked
t: 01543 578500 Membership Prices – available from January 1st 2013 £30.00 dd per month 7 day green fee membership £360.00 per year green fee one off payment
Available 7am till Dusk (times may vary throughout year)
Contact The Golf shop on 01543
Offer ends 24/12/12
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Managed by (WLCT) Wigan Leisure Culture Trust in partnership with Cannock Chase District Council
A perfect venue for a golf day Home to the English Amateur 2013
WINTER PACKAGE from
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FRILFORD HEATH GOLF CLUB www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
LG pp 51 Lead to Top 100 16/11/2012 15:06 Page 51
BRITA I N’S TOP
100 LINKS COURSES 2013
Definitive guide to seaside golf
Britain’s Top 100 Links in association with
LG pp 52-53 Top 100 Links Intro 16/11/2012 15:08 Page 52
BRITAIN’S TOP 100 LINKS
WELCOME
This is how we put our list together – from the panel to the assessment criteria
REGULAR readers may not need telling, for our words may well have betrayed us down the years, but the fact is we are lovers of links golf at Lady Golfer. The heathlands of Surrey, Leeds et al undoubtedly have their attractions but, given the choice, we would always head to the coast to play golf. Some of you will find this statement superfluous, being converted to the charms of the seaside. Others, though, we recognise, will either not agree with our passion for links – or indeed have no experience of this type of golf. We hope this feature caters for all three groups, offering an objective ranking for the connoisseur and some insight into why it is such a special form of the game for the less enthusiastic. To that end, we include several features within the section, which we hope entertain and inform. 52 Lady Golfer
WHAT WE WERE LOOKING FOR A course situated within a mile of the sea There are many different definitions of ‘what is a links’ but, for the purposes of this list, we use the fact a course is within a mile of the sea as proof it is a links. This means some courses which some may justifiably deem more clifftop in nature are included. The essence of seaside golf By which we really mean links golf. Above all else, this means firm underfoot conditions. The ball must bounce and run. Suddenly, the game is richer and more interesting. The player has more options. Strategy is more important. The concept of subtlety is introduced. It also means a breeze. Without one, the game is diminished. That doesn’t mean
you would choose to play in a gale – only that you might encounter one. The essence of seaside golf is that you must adapt to the conditions. Only the strongest characters fully embrace the challenge. A true test Not in the sense of needing to be championship-length, rather in terms of being the most thorough possible examination of your game. As it happens, most of the very best links courses in Great Britain are on the Open rota. That is hardly a coincidence. Unlike the Ryder Cup, quality of the course is paramount when it come to the Open Championship. But none are great courses because they are long. Quite the opposite. A true test is one that calls for mastery of all parts of the game.
OUR PANEL The list was compiled by NCG’s staff, headed by editor Dan Murphy – a man who walks with a slight lean to the left, so used is he to battling into a links headwind. Dan was aided (Ed’s note: I would argue it was more like interference) by opinions from in-house staff as well as freelancer contributors. This wideranging panel means every course has been played by at least three different panellists at least once. More usually, they will have been played by more than three people, and played more than twice. We humbly suggest this gives the ranking an authority which surpasses other course listings.
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LG pp 52-53 Top 100 Links Intro 16/11/2012 15:09 Page 53
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WHERE ARE THESE BIG NAMES RANKED? PRINCE’S Did these three loops of nine make it into the top 50?
THE CASTLE COURSE How high was the seventh course in St Andrews placed?
MACHRIHANISH DUNES Be prepared for a surprise spot for this modern masterpiece
Test of time Where will Machrihanish Old appear?
Variety The best seaside courses offer a little bit of everything. Play in windy, fast-running conditions and the scorecard means little. A par 4 of over 400 yards can be little more than a 3 wood and a pitch in one direction; a 350-yarder the opposite way might need a drive and a long iron. You might play one par 5 and have an eagle putt then not be able to reach a par 4 in two. The skilful links practitioner knows when to attack and when to throttle back. Challenge We intend this in the broadest sense. Where would you want to play if you could take your best game (regardless of whether you are off scratch or a novice). Where would you get the most satisfaction from? Which courses would most give you the chance to enjoy good shots? www.ladygolferonline.co.uk
WHAT WASN’T A FACTOR Grandeur Links golf is all about simplicity and the game being reduced to its most basic elements. To us, the links game involves simply testing your skills in a natural environment. The off-course experience For the purposes of this list we did not look at clubhouses, practice facilities, warmth of welcome, halfway houses, signage or indeed anything at all outside the moment you walk on to the 1st tee until the time you leave the 18th. Goodie bags This is a feature about golf courses – pure and simple. Little bags of tees, pencils and ball markers were irrelevant. Price We speak as we found, regardless
of whether the green fee would likely be nearer £300 or £20. Bringing ‘value’ into the mix makes things very complicated. Length We are presuming, as a discerning golfer, you are capable of choosing a set of tees that will provide a balance between challenge and playability. Personally speaking, we get as little pleasure from playing a great course from tees so far forward that we can carry all the trouble from the tee as we do from being too far back and needing to hit a drive and a 3 wood to most of the par 4s. The Open-hosting courses that make up the majority of our top 10 are not there just because they have all been lengthened over the years to well over 7,000 yards. They are there because they are great courses.
TRUMP INTERNATIONAL We rank on course quality, not controversy. So was it top 10?
ROYAL LYTHAM Many find it modest – so did our panel buck the trend?
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NEWBURGH
Aberdeenshire Designer: McAndrew What to expect: As many are in the higher echelons of this Top 100 list, this Aberdeenshire course is a tale of two halves. No one would deny the older, back nine is the stronger and it certainly enjoys the better land. The front nine is less dramatic but still perfectly enjoyable.
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DUFF HOUSE ROYAL
Aberdeenshire Designers: Braid/Mackenzie What to expect: Not a links! Odd as it sounds, this is definitely parkland in nature... even though it is located right on the coast, or more accurately a tiny inlet of the North Sea in Banff. It qualifies comfortably as a links under our ‘within a mile of the sea’ criteria.
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CRAIGIELAW
East Lothian Designer: Steel What to expect: This modern championship links has undulating greens, deep bunkers and spectacular views over the Firth of Forth and Gullane Hill. It is a welcome addition to East Lothian’s links portfolio – and
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recommendations rarely come any higher than that.
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FAIRHAVEN
Lancashire Designers: Steer/Braid/Thomas/Steel What to expect: An Open Championship final qualifying venue which has a good deal of class about it, with excellent bunkering, lovely turf and notably pristine greens.
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CARNOUSTIE (BURNSIDE)
Angus Designer: Unknown What to expect: On the same piece of land as the championship course, the Burnside offers many of the same values – a demand for honest shot-making and largely flat greens. Inevitably overshadowed by its famous sister course, this should be on any Angus trip itinerary.
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LONGNIDDRY
East Lothian Designer: Colt What to expect: Among the pure seaside courses of East Lothian is this delightful combination of woodland and links golf. We rather enjoy the woodland
holes here and somehow the juxtaposition works nicely; Scots Pines, gorse, sea-buckthorn and rough provide the definition and the penalties.
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FORTROSE & ROSEMARKIE
Highlands Designer: Braid What to expect: It seems impossible that 18 holes have been squeezed into this piece of land which is situated on the Chanonry Peninsula. Although short it is packed with hazards and small greens that putt beautifully.
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ASKERNISH
Outer Hebrides Designers: Old Tom Morris/Ebert What to expect: Uncovered a few years ago, Askernish is an Old Tom Morris classic that had been lost and grown over. Its restoration is an ongoing labour of love, a piece of history which is now available for all to savour and enjoy.
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NAIRN DUNBAR
Highlands Designer: Unknown What to expect: A combination of links and parkland holes offer
welcome variety and there’s plenty of length to test your driving too. Because if you stray from the fairways, there is gorse, heather and bushes waiting to swallow up your ball.
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PWLLHELI
North Wales Designers: Morris/Braid What to expect: A first-class links-parkland hybrid. Value is not part of our criteria so we mention Pwllheli’s outrageously good value for your information. Views over Cardigan Bay and Snowdonia are impressive, but this is about more than scenery; it is about astutely-designed holes laid out over fabulous links terrain from the 8th onwards.
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WEST KILBRIDE
Ayrshire Designers: Morris/Braid What to expect: Simple seaside fare which improves as the round progresses. The stretch on the back nine by the shore is top class. Plus, the friendliest members in this Top 100 list. It is never spoken about along with the Irvines, Troon and Gailes. But it should be.
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LG pp 54-55 Top 100 16/11/2012 15:21 Page 55
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Dazzling Fortrose One of the more strategic par 5s you will play
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PORTHMADOG
Gwynned Designer: Braid What to expect: A steady front nine of parkland and heathland followed by some sensational stuff among the dunes on the second half. The change in terrain is remarkable; walk past the clubhouse to the 10th tee and suddenly you are in truly magnificent golfing land.
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BAMBURGH CASTLE
Northumberland Designer: Rochester What to expect: A shortish but exhilarating examination where you don’t get to play a par 4 until the 5th. From the 14th tee you can enjoy the sea on three sides, unspoilt beaches, Holy Island and the eponymous castle.
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KILMARNOCK BARASSIE
Ayrshire Designer: Moon What to expect: Barassie has all the elements of classic links – but is a traditional and modest club that tends to stay away from the limelight. In recent years, nine new holes have been added. No wow factor, just a rock-solid links.
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HEADING FOR EAST LOTHIAN IT is well known East Lothian is something of a links paradise. And any visit should also consider both Musselburgh Old and Winterfield. Playing Musselburgh Links is making a pilgrimage to the oldest course in the world. The course provides an experience like no other, and even allows players to hire Hickory style clubs which is brilliant fun. The course is within close proximity to both Royal Musselburgh and Longniddry.
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NORTH WALES
North Wales Designers: Cummins/Hilton What to expect: Determining this as fun holiday golf might be a little patronising but it is packed with entertainment and great views of Anglesey and the Snowdonia mountain range. You will also do well to find a better value day out.
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SHERINGHAM Norfolk Designer: Dunn
What to expect: Sitting on the cliffs just to the north of this pleasant town, get Sheringham on a clear day and you will be glad to be alive. Natural and rugged, the toughest holes are usually those beside the railway towards the end. It is a thrilling and exhilarating experience and should be on any itinerary of those playing in Norfolk.
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IRVINE
Ayrshire Designers: Braid What to expect: An interesting combination of the quirky and the exacting. Some of our panel love it for the former – with some fabulous green complexes and blind shots – while others rated it for its stiff two shotters.
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PRESTWICK ST NICHOLAS
Ayrshire Designer: Hunter What to expect: Yes, the town of Prestwick has more than one fine seaside course. This traditional links, not especially long, has most of the elements you would expect from a top-class seaside Ayrshire course. The best holes come near the beginning and end.
KILSPINDIE
East Lothian Designers: Ross/Sayers What to expect: Tucked between the villages of Gullane and Aberlady, Kilspindie is a quintessentially short Scottish links experience. Play here on a summer’s evening for maximum enjoyment. Leave the driver in the car boot and enjoy this short links.
ISLE OF PURBECK
Dorset Designer: Colt What to expect: High on the cliffs with views out to the Isle of Wight, this is holiday golf in its original form. But don’t mistake it for a stroll in the park – any Coltdesigned course will have plenty of clever little devices to make you work for your score.
SEASCALE
Cumbria Designers: Campbell/Lowe What to expect: Links golf in a pure form, as it used to be in the early days of the game. Some bigname links claim to be minimalist – but Seascale genuinely provides it. No frills and no fuss, just cleverly designed holes offering great variety.
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LG pp 56 Adverts 16/11/2012 15:26 Page 56
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LG pp 57 Top 100 16/11/2012 15:19 Page 57
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BRITAIN’S TOP 100 LINKS
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HAYLING
Dorset Designer: Taylor/Simpson What to expect: This is an honest, unpolished and genuine links. Reconstructed in the 1930s, it now makes much better use of the many virtues of the land. Some panellists would have had it higher.
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CASTLETOWN
Isle of Man Designers: Old Tom Morris/Mackenzie Ross What to expect: Wild and rugged, Castletown is a thrilling place to play, especially on those holes adjacent to the water’s edge. Watch out for the drive on the 17th across the sea (pictured here) – there are shades of the 9th at Turnberry.
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ST ANNES OLD LINKS
Lancashire Designers: Lowe/Herd What to expect: This is such an honest links. What it lacks in splendour on what is essential a flat, box-shaped piece of land it more than makes up for in the quality of almost every hole.
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GLASGOW GAILES
Ayrshire Designer: Park Jr What to expect: A great driving course, its fairways lined by heather and gorse not to mention the railway line that is such a feature of Scotland’s west coast. Our panel vowed to get back here in 2013, for the feeling among some was that it could easily have been placed higher.
octane back nine of a quality found nowhere else outside of the most famous names in British and Irish golf. That is genuinely no exaggeration – it’s that good.
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WALLASEY
Merseyside Designer: Old Tom What to expect: A rugged, testing and, at times, jaw-dropping links, which was once home to Dr Frank Stableford – and thus the birthplace of his scoring system. Duneland and some spectacular tees, most notably at the 4th, will live long in the memory.
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MONIFIETH
Angus Designers: Robertson/Pirie What to expect: The perfect summer evening venue. A
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Northumberland Designers: Braid/Pennink What to expect: England’s most northerly links sits between Newcastle and Edinburgh and sets a stern examination for all. An Open qualifier, it unsurprisingly boasts superb views over the North Sea as well as to the Holy Island and Bamburgh Castle. Don’t underestimate it.
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Morris What to expect: Lots of gorse and the occasional glimpse of the sea. The fairways are wider than they can look and if you can cope with the wind then decent scoring is not impossible. You also need to negotiate an unsual 1st – your approach is played over a fence!
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SEATON CAREW
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Highlands Designer: Old Tom
Devon Designer: Pennink What to expect: Not as grand or bold as its sister course – few are. Instead, after an elevated opening drive played between two huge dunes, it becomes more subtle, though equally as inspiring. The West was only re-opened as recently as 1974 though was originally formed in 1897.
LEVEN LINKS
ROYAL NORTH DEVON
TAIN
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SAUNTON (WEST)
Durham Designers: MacKenzie/Pennick What to expect: Rugged and by no means pretty, Seaton Carew offers much more than it initially promises. Set aside the industrial surroundings and you have a links of real pedigree. Some of our panel would have liked to see it placed a touch higher.
GOSWICK
Devon Designers: Old Tom Morris/Fowler What to expect: We’re still not sure if there is anywhere quite like Westward Ho! At first glance a wide-open landscape with little in the way of definition. Only in time can you appreciate the different way most holes can be played.
What to expect: In the southeastern corner of England, this is a firm and fast links played across largely flat ground. As one of the driest areas in Britain, it excels in the winter, when the only real clue as to the time of year is in the temperature.
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GULLANE NO 2
East Lothian Designers: Park/Pennink What to expect: There is very little difference in quality for the most part between this and the more celebrated No 1 – certainly the terrain and turf are the same. Some would say No 2 enjoys greater variety; it is certainly more scorable.
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PYLE & KENFIG
South Wales Designer: Mackenzie Ross What to expect: A perfectly enjoyable front nine which is more heathland in nature – then a high-
generally flat, easy-walking links whose rippling fairways lead to seriously slick greens, some of which are enclosed by tall pines.
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PERRANPORTH
Cornwall Designer: Braid What to expect: Don’t expect to find any winter greens here, do expect to find some incredible putting surfaces and even better views of the North Cornwall coastline overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Not the very longest but still oodles of fun to be had.
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LITTLESTONE
Kent Designers: Purves/ Braid/MacKenzie/Pennink/Steel/ Alliss
Fife Designers: Unknown What to expect: The epitome of the minimalist links. Don’t expect thrills and spills, just straightforward seaside golf. They let the fairways get burnt here so, assuming we get a vaguely decent summer next year, head to Fife to drive your ball 300 yards down these scorched brown fairways. Pity the designer is unknown – he deserves credit for his work.
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BRORA
Highlands Designer: Braid What to expect: Some think a trip to the Highlands is made by a round at Brora, as opposed to Royal Dornoch, which says plenty. An out-and-back links which is laid out before you and which now boasts some first-class accommodation on site in the form of swish apartments overlooking the course.
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LUNDIN
Fife Designer: Braid What to expect: Once part of the same course along with neighbouring Leven, the two are now separated by a low stone wall. Half the holes are on the flat, lower pice of land with the remainder climbing on to a plateau.
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TENBY
South Wales Designer: Braid What to expect: Old-fashioned seaside golf alongside an oldfashioned seaside town. Sometimes flat and sometimes uneven, the ground is perfectly suited to running shots. Indeed, Tenby can get running nice and fast when we get a halfway decent summer.
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CONWY
Caernarvonshire Designers: Harris/Pennink What to expect: A solid if unspectacular links which will require you to use every club in the bag with skill in order to maintain a tidy scorecard. Laid out in the shadow of Conwy Mountain, many holes overlook
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the estuary towards Llandudno, Great Orme and Anglesey. Modest end but otherwise top notch.
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ARCHERFIELD (DIRLETON)
East Lothian Designer: Russell What to expect: Although the sea is only rarely in view, the Dirleton is set up to be a links in character, with outcrops of gorse often separating one hole from the next. The greens are large, quick and far from level in places. A fine complement to its woodland-links sister, the Fidra.
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PANMURE
Angus Designer: Braid What to expect: Sitting next door to Carnoustie, you won’t be surprised to learn Panmure is of a similar ilk; linksy turf, rippling fairways and pot bunkers, but also gorse, bushes and mature trees. The 6th, ‘Hogan’ is a truly magnificent golf hole.
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PRINCE’S
Kent Designers: Hutchings/ Lucas/Campbell/Morrison What to expect: A former Open Championship with three nines –
Shore, Dunes and Himalayas – and, if time doesn’t allow all three, be sure to tackle the first two. Recent improvements have really polished this Kent jewel which runs alongside Sandwich.
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MONTROSE
Angus Designers: Morris/Park What to expect: Heaps of history and heaps of fun. Golf has been played here for 450 years and is thus one of the seminal links golf experiences. A modest, uphill opener gives rise to a run of classic seaside holes starting with an elevated tee shot onto the 2nd’s gorgeous rippling fairway and a brilliant par 3 to a table-top green.
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PENNARD
South Wales Designers: Braid/Cotton What to expect: James Braid once declared he had never seen a better piece of natural land for a course. Don’t expect flat lies and a day of smashing your driver, rather form a plan and plot your angles around this stunning layout. Fantastic fun – and if you go there and don’t agree with us, we will be amazed.
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GOLSPIE
Highlands Designer: Braid What to expect: A highly unusual, if not unique, blend of links, parkland and heathland. The holes that run parallel to the sea on the front nine are outstanding, but the ones that follow as the course heads inland to the turn are arguably even better. Not totally linksy, not totally heathland in style – just a remarkable and delightful mixture.
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TREVOSE
Cornwall Designers: Colt/Campbell What to expect: A coastal course on a grand setting – Trevose stretches to well over 7,000 yards from the back tees. A fantastic base for a holiday, there is something in the air that makes you delighted to be here. Trevose offers a beguiling mixture of clifftop and links golf which is always memorable.
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MURCAR
Aberdeenshire Designer: Simpson/Braid/Webster What to expect: Bordering Royal Aberdeen, Murcar has much to
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LG pp 58-59 Top 100 16/11/2012 15:18 Page 59
in association with
Bread of heaven Strategy over brawn pays off at Pyle & Kenfig
recommend it. Tight in places from the tee, it is a links that rewards accuracy and precision throughout. Some can be a trifle bemused by Murcar but any discerning links golfer will know when to attack and when to play safe between and over the dunes.
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DUNBAR
East Lothian Designers: Old Tom What to expect: The first three, played out on an old deer park, give little guide of what is to follow. All but the last are then played out on a classic piece of links land sandwiched between a stone wall and the coastline.
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Golfing heaven Gullane No 2 is part of a majestic trio of courses
LYTHAM AND ST ANNES PACKAGE Head to the North West this winter and you could take advantage of a wonderful offer allowing golfers to play Fairhaven, St Annes Old Links and Lytham Green Drive with a two night B&B stay for £169pp. Fairhaven is an impressive blend of links and parkland. Lytham Green Drive is a charming, well-kept course a mile from the sea. St Annes Old Links is over a century old and every bit as authentic as its famous neighbour, Lytham. For more information visit www.lythamgolfbreaks.com
MORAY (OLD)
Moray Designer: Old Tom What to expect: Fantastic greens, rippled fairways and fast-running conditions, as well as plenty of gorse. If you wanted to provide an example of pure links golf, you could hardly do better than coming here.
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ST ANDREWS (CASTLE)
Fife Designer: David McLay Kidd What to expect: A championship
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links for the new Millennium. McLay Kidd admits he pushed the envelope on this design, so keen was he to reward the St Andrews Links Trust’s faith in him with a spectacular links. It is certainly that, and with the more acute slopes on some greens softened off in recent years it has become even more playable.
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ASHBURNHAM
South Wales Designers: Taylor/Hawtree/Cotton
What to expect: A surprise. Ashburnham is not as fashionable these days as it was back in the 1960s when professional events were held here but visitors are rewarded with an authentic links experience of real quality.
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SOUTHERNESS
Dumfries & Galloway Designer: Mack Ross What to expect: Honest, generally unspectacular links whose quality increases to a high level down the stretch. Heather, gorse and pot bunkers mean it is plenty exacting enough to test elite amateurs in the Scottish Amateur and British Boys.
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ARCHERFIELD (FIDRA)
East Lothian Designer: Russell What to expect: One of the latest additions to the riches of golf in East Lothian having been opened as recently as 2004. But, it is said, Mary Queen of Scots once tackled its original six holes. Nowadays, with a nice slice of irony, it hosts the Ladies’ Scottish Open.
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SEACROFT Lincolnshire Designers: Fernie/
Campbell What to expect: To be impressed. Considering the quality of this east-coast links, it is almost unheard of outside the immediate area. Just outside Skegness, it might not be the first place you would think of visiting but if you do so you won’t regret it.
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THE MACHRIE
Isle of Islay Designers: Campbell What to expect: The archetypal quirky links experience. This is a course which was tended to by rabbits and sheep in the early days – and it remains delightfully minimalist in presentation. This gorgeous seaside course on the remote Isle of Islay off the west coast of Scotland is well worth the journey.
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ROYAL ST DAVID’S
North Wales Designers: Finch-Hatton/More What to expect: A stingy and entirely misleading par of 68 might fool you into thinking Harlech is something other than a championship course of great stature. It is certainly not – and the closing four holes are the match of most in Britain.
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42
ST ANDREWS (JUBILEE)
Fife Designers: Angus/ Auchterlonie/Steel What to expect: Recently improved and extended by Donald Steel, the locals reckon the Jubilee is the most complete test in St Andrews. The fairways are flatter than on the Old, but there is more in the way of dunes lining them. Some – many in fact – suggest it is also the most exacting.
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RENAISSANCE
East Lothian Designer: Tom Doak What to expect: The architect is a student of the game so he was hardly likely to waste this special opportunity. It begins with treelined, inland-style holes and then moves to a spectacular clifftop location.
40
MACHRIHANISH
Argyll Designers: Old Tom What to expect: A taste of golfing history. Old Tom got the boat over to Machrihanish in 1879 and did not take long to lay out the course which exists today, so conducive was the land to hosting a golf course. The holes towards
60 Lady Golfer
the end of the front nine are awesome.
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GULLANE NO 1
East Lothian Designer: Unknown What to expect: The original attraction of a tiny town that revolves around golf, No 1 quickly climbs – more so than perhaps any other comparable links – away from the clubhouse. It is a consistently stringent test..
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MACHRIHANISH DUNES
Argyll Designer: David McLay Kidd What to expect: A natural seaside course. Celebrated designer McLay Kidd (who holidayed on Machrihanish beach as a child) insists he did not have much to do to create this wonderful links – Mother Nature had done almost all the work for him. Magical.
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BURNHAM & BERROW
Somerset Designers: Fowler/Alison/ Hilton/MacKenzie/Colt What to expect: All but five holes are played amid dramatic duneland but by and large you can see where you are going on this
exceptional links which has hosted the English Amateur six times. Be sure to assess where to ‘miss’ your approach unless you possess a demon short game.
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LUFFNESS
What to expect: The clubhouse is alongside the railway station which tells you the history of this much-loved Welsh links, a favoured holiday spot dating back back to the 19th century.
East Lothian Designer: Old Tom What to expect: Next door to the three Gullane courses, Luffness arguably occupies a better piece of golfing land, being flatter and more consistent for the most part. Yet strangely it is rarely spoken of in reverential tones. It ought to be, for after a modest beginning there is some high-class fare to be savoured at this traditional club.
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35
Merseyside Designer: Braid What to expect: This two-time Ryder Cup venue remains a host for Open Final Qualifying and is another jewel in the North West coastline. It begins with a par 3 in front of the clubhouse and the variety, in terms of strategy and nature, continues throughout.
RYE
Kent Designers: Colt/Simpson/Campbell What to expect: Tradition, idiosyncrasies and timeless style – and that’s just the clubhouse. Rye is a law unto itself but if you arrive with the right attitude then you will find this Kent links irresistible.
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ABERDOVEY
North Wales Designers: Fowler/Colt/Braid
DUNDONALD
Ayrshire Designer: Phillips What to expect: Like many of the great Ayrshire links (Turnberry being the exception), Dundonald will not seduce you with its vista, but take the holes at face value and you have a supreme modern layout.
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SOUTHPORT & AINSDALE
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SILLOTH ON SOLWAY
Cumbria Designers: Grant/Vardon/Taylor/Braid
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Modern classic The Castle Course at St Andrews is a new beauty
What to expect: A proper championship links. Silloth might not have an enormous reputation, but that is not because it is a ‘fun’ seaside course – she is only fun if you can tame her. No, its underexposure owes more to its remote location on the west coast of Cumbria. It plays a lot longer than its 6,641 yards, with the wind a constant factor.
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HUNSTANTON
Norfolk Designers: Fernie/Braid/Sherlock What to expect: Hunstanton is charming, homely and distinguished. It managed to be an out-and-back links where you never play more than a couple of holes in the same direction.
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ROYAL CINQUE PORTS
Kent Designers: Hunter/Braid/ Campbell What to expect: Following recent programme of improvements to both the layout and the presentation, few links present a better, truer definition of what the game in its seaside form is all about. Expect quick, brown fairways.
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Triple bonus Prince’s offers three terrific loops of nine holes
YOUR ABERDEEN ACCOMMODATION
Aikenshill House is an impressive property on Scotland’s north east coast. In 2011, it was awarded a five star rating by Visit Scotland. Just 500m from the new Trump Links, this spacious and well-appointed house boasts stunning views over rolling sand dunes. Offering B&B with an option of evening meal in luxurious accommodation, Aikenshill is perfect for those planning to visit Aberdeen. Single rooms start from £85pn, with double rooms starting from £100pn. For more details visit www.aikenshill.co.uk
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WEST LANCASHIRE
Merseyside Designers: Cotton/Hawtree What to expect: A host for Open Final Qualifying and often the toughest of the lot. Only one of the par 4s, the 18th, plays dead straight while the others wind merrily left and right, their angles defined by steep-faced bunkers. The oldest club in the country with a course we rate highly – just look at its placing here.
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CASTLE STUART
Highlands Designers: Gil Hanse What to expect: A clifftop course with a links feel, this new venture is the work of Kingbarns mastermind Mark Parsinen and designer-of-the-moment Gil Hanse. They have created a course where you can drive it wildly and still score well if your approach shots and especially your short game are sharp.
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FORMBY
Southport Designers: Park/Braid What to expect: Links golf, but not as you know it. Formby is part of the Southport glitterati but has its own distinct character, with trees playing some part in almost every hole. This is especially true towards the end of the back nine, the holes weaving between tall pines which offer enough seclusion to allow the 6th, 7th and 8th to be laid out parallel to each other.
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ST ANDREWS (NEW)
Fife Designers: Old Tom Morris/Hall Blyth
What to expect: Flanking the Old Course (the New is to your right on the way out) yet entirely different in character, the New possesses little of the whimsy but rather more in the way of honesty. And the greens are often the best in the town.
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WESTERN GAILES
Ayrshire Designers: F Morris/F Hawtree What to expect: Laid out in a figure of eight, Western Gailes has the railway running down one boundary and and the ocean on the other. Links golf at its very best.
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CRUDEN BAY
Aberdeenshire Designers: Old Tom Morris/A Simpson/T Simpson/Fowler What to expect: Fun. It is a flinty heart indeed that does not fall in love with Cruden Bay. There are holes here you will never see anywhere else – and nor should you Рso do not miss out on the experience. The view from the clubhouse will tell you all you need to know. True, there may be a couple of weak holes, but the majority are out of this world.
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BRITAIN’S TOP 100 LINKS
22
KINGSBARNS Fife Designers: Kyle
Phillips What to expect: A modern masterpiece, sculpted by the eye of Kyle Phillips’ and a lot of earthmoving machinery. Some see this manufactured aspect as a negative, others view it as enormously impressive given the course looks as if it has been there for a century. Views of the sea and several box office holes makes this a must play when visiting Fife.
21
ROYAL PORTHCAWL
South Wales Designers: Gibson/Colt/Simpson What to expect: Quite simply the best course in the Principality with views of the Atlantic Ocean from every hole. Far from flat so can be a brute or a beauty depending on the strength of the wind that whips in from the Bristol Channel.
At least half the holes are showstoppers in their own right.
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ROYAL LIVERPOOL
Merseyside Designers: Chambers/Morris/Colt What to expect: Much like Lytham the views are not of the leading variety but, like this year’s Open venue, the golf is. On a gusty day Hoylake can be as tough as anywhere, on a calm one it is exquisite which you will be thankful for as early as the daunting 1st. Why it’s special: Thankfully back on the Open rota the short holes are sensational, with the 11th the pick of the bunch, and this separates a brace of brilliant par 4s. Eleven Opens, 18 Amateur Championships and the 1983 Walker Cup tells its own story.
16
PRESTWICK
Ayrshire Designer: Old Tom What to expect: Some of the most outrageous holes that have ever been designed – yet they all work somehow. It begins with a short par 4 where tee, fairway and green are all tight alongside the railway line – enough said. Why it’s special: As the venue for the first 12 Opens, a sense of history hangs over every blade of grass. Playing it feels a privilege.
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SAUNTON (EAST)
Devon Designer: Fowler What to expect: A course worthy of hosting the Open, yes it’s that good. Much like Royal Birkdale much of the course runs between the dunes and the view from the
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Aberdeenshire Designer: M Hawtree What to expect: As good a piece of land as exists anywhere in the British Isles as a canvas. It is (very) early days yet, but presuming the turf and grasses develop as they surely will, this course is only heading in one direction. Why it’s special: The sheer scale. So many links are compromised by the dimensions of the land but there are no such problems here.
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Cornwall Designers: Braid/
McEvoy What to expect: An evocative, timeless and beautiful location. St Enodoc is as pleasant a place to spend our golfing holidays as can be imagined. It has rare elevation for a links course, and with it come views of the Camel Estuary. Why it’s special: You can be distracted by the surroundings but to concentrate on the course itself for a minute, the closing stretch of the 16th (par 5), 17th (3) and 18th (4) is stunning.
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20
TRUMP
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ST ENODOC
ROYAL TROON
HILLSIDE
Merseyside Designers: Hawtree/Steel What to expect: On one side Southport & Ainsdale, on the other Royal Birkdale. In between, for plenty, sits the best of the trio. A course that jinks this way and that, with an outcrop of pines thrown in, it will excite and thrill at every turn. Why it’s special: Many experts prefer the front nine but it is unlikely you will not be discussing the panorama from the 11th and 17th tees and all that goes on between afterwards. Greg Norman has labelled the back nine the very best in Great Britain.
but for a brief foray inland on the back nine. Why it’s special: There is a feeling here of links golf at its absolute best. The conditioning is so good without being anything other than natural. Some say the inland holes are a weakness, others would argue it is another strong to Nairn’s bow.
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ROYAL WEST NORFOLK
Norfolk Designer: Ingleby What to expect: Once you have been here a few times everything makes perfect sense but the crossing of a beach to access the 1st tee, double fairways and sleepered bunkers make it an extraordinary first-time experience. Why it’s special: There is a charm here that is unique to Brancaster. Certainly the clubhouse has to be seen to believed. And the more you see of the course, the more you recognise the quality and subtlety of the design. Plus, it’s always in terrific nick, even in the winter.
clubhouse should be savoured for hours. Why it’s special: The 1st hole is as magnificent a test as any opening hole and the fact that it remains a consistently brilliant challenge thereafter is some achievement. The finishing three holes match those of the first few with the 16th the pick of the lot.
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NAIRN
Highlands Designers: A Simpson/Old Tom Morris/Braid/Sayers What to expect: A serene experience when the Moray Firth is sunlit and the Black Isle beyond it is in clear view. The greens here are about as good as you will ever put on. The course is mainly flat
Ayrshire Designers: Strath/Fernie/Braid What to expect: There is a certain plainness and lack of splendour about Troon in its early stages but you know the Postage Stamp is waiting at the far end. There is barely an average hole on the back nine. Why it’s special: The obvious hole to pick out is the 8th, but how about the almighty par-4 11th, where the view from the tee is simply of railway line and gorse.
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ROYAL ABERDEEN
Aberdeenshire Designers: R Simpson/A Simpson/T Simpson/ Taylor/Braid/Steel What to expect: A sensationally good front nine an inward half that has been much improved recently by Donald Steel. The 2011 Walker Cup venue is classy, well maintained and very fair. Why it’s special: As the 6th oldest club in the world, Royal Aberdeen is rightly proud and aware of its position in the game’s history. Somehow that carries across the course itself as well.
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10
SKIBO CASTLE
Highlands Designer: Sutherland/Steel/T MacKenzie What to expect: Improved almost beyond recognition in recent years, Skibo always enjoyed a special site, but is now beautifully prepared as a true links. Why it’s special: Secluded to the point of isolation and quiet to the point of silence, you will not find better links surfaces to play from at any other course in this list.
9
NORTH BERWICK
East Lothian Designer: Unknown What to expect: The nearest you will get to the Old Course away from St Andrews, but arguably a more charming experience, certainly one where the sea is constantly in view. Quirky does not come close to describing some of the holes here.
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Why it’s special: There are holes of uniqueness here– such as the 13th, when the green and fairway are separated by a stone wall.
8
TURNBERRY (AILSA)
Ayrshire Designer: Ross What to expect: From the 4th to the 11th, the Ailsa takes you on a journey like no other, hugging the coastline. The start and parts of the back nine are not quite as magical but when the sun is shining a round here is heavenly. Why it’s special: Where to start? The sight of the sun melting behind Ailsa Craig, perhaps, or the 9th, with its championship tee calling for a drive over the rocks to the distant fairway.
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ST ANDREWS (OLD COURSE) Fife Designer: Unknown
What to expect: At times underwhelming, if truth were told, on the way out, expect to be puzzled by the Old at first sight– it is far from clear where to aim towards or what her secrets are. Why it’s special: The merest thought of standing on the 1st tee or walking down the last is enough to send a shiver down the spine.
6
ROYAL ST GEORGE’S
Kent Designers: Laidlaw Purves/Pennink What to expect: This quintessentially old-fashioned links was the first English course to host the Open, in 1894, and even features flags adorned by St George’s crosses. Why it’s special: Often played across spines of dunes rather than between them, Sandwich is gloriously contrary at times and its rumpled fairways are entertaining.
5
ROYAL BIRKDALE
Lancashire Designers: Low/F Hawtree/Taylor What to expect: Many people’s idea of England’s foremost course is a links where the fairways are largely flat corridors between some tumultuous dunes. The opening hole here is as testing as at any course in this list. Why it’s special: Perhaps the finest hole is the short 12th, with its raised green naturally protected by the sand hills. Birkdale is fair and stern, with the due gravitas of an Open venue.
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ROYAL LYTHAM
Lancashire Designer: Lowe What to expect: A championship links which offers no scintillating sea views yet effortlessly challenges and charms the discerning golfer. Some may be surprised to see it above
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Muirfield is No.1 It offers a strategic test which few can match
Birkdale, but our panel were unanimous in this decision. Why it’s special: The closing stretch is second only to Carnoustie in terms of difficulty on The Open rota – and then not by much. A string of exacting twoshotters culminate in your drive on the last, which is famously strewn with bunkers.
3
ROYAL DORNOCH
Highlands Designers: Old Tom Morris/Taylor What to expect: To fall in love. That is what happens to most first-time visitors, for whom Dornoch proves simply irresistible. This is arguably the most charismatic, evocative course in all of Britain, and also as much fun to play as anywhere else. Why it’s special: It has everything you could wish for, starting with almost constant views of the beach and sea. It does
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not demand length, and the secret to its defences, apart from the wind, is the raised greens. They make positioning essential and then give you the choice of using pretty much any club in your bag. You can make some birdies at Dornoch, but you can also find yourself chipping on from one side of a green and off the other.
2
CARNOUSTIE
Angus Designers: Old Tom Morris/Braid What to expect: Carnoustie is arguably the most complete examination of your long game to be found in Britain. Mistakenly renowned for its difficulty, it would be more accurate to say it is both thorough and demanding. Play Carnoustie with an open mind and you will note that the greens are invariably flat and mostly generous. Similarly, the landing areas from the tee are
clearly delineated and by no means tight. Pretty it is not – you catch only the occasional glimpse of the sea – nor quirky, but it is the apotheosis of fairness. Why it’s special: The Carnoustie turf is out of this world – tight and even, meaning you never get a bad lie on the fairway. The test is relentless and it is true that the course is far from generous, something that is summed up by the forward tees that are still well over 6,500 yards. Nothing comes easily here – which is why it is so satisfying to play well.
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MUIRFIELD
East Lothian Designers: Old Tom Morris/Colt/Simpson What to expect: Muirfield is by no means spectacular. The sea is at a distance, there is little in the way of dunes and the ground is relatively even for the most part.
The bunkers are not the deepest, the course is not the longest nor is there any one hole that embodies it. And that is exactly it is the best. It is simply one supreme hole after the next, all the way. Why it’s special: To stand on the 1st tee, looking at the gently curve of the fairway to the right, the tall grasses on either side shimmering in the breeze, must be one of golf’s greatest pleasures. For a links, Muirfield is pristine, and the same is true of a peerless design that never stops posing demanding questions. Its choreography sees the front nine run in a circular sweep around the perimeter, returning to that famous redroofed clubhouse in time for an inward loop that is exactly that. The result of this ingenious design is that you never play more than three consecutive holes in the same direction. The angles are constantly changing and so too is the wind.
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BRITAIN’S TOP 100 LINKS
THE TOP 100 LIST IN FULL – AND WHERE TO FIND THEM 100 Newburgh, Aberdeenshire
91 Pwllheli, North Wales
82 Irvine, Ayrshire
49 St Andrews (Castle), Fife
99 Duff House Royal, Aberdeenshire
90 West Kilbride, Ayrshire
81 Isle of Purbeck, Dorset
48 Ashburnham, South Wales
98 Craigielaw, East Lothian
89 Porthmadog, Gwynned
80 Seascale, Cumbria
47 Southerness, Dumfriesshire
97 Fairhaven, Lancashire
88 Bamburgh Castle, Northum’d
79 Hayling, Dorset
46 Archerfield (Fidra), East Lothian
96 Carnoustie (Burnside), Angus
87 Kilmarnock Barassie, Ayrshire
78 Castletown, Isle of Man
45 Seacroft, Lincolnshire
95 Longniddry, East Lothian
86 North Wales, North Wales
77 Goswick, Northumberland
44 The Machrie, Isle of Islay
94 Fortrose & Rosemarkie, Highls
85 Sheringham, Norfolk
76 Royal North Devon, Devon
43 Royal St David’s, North Wales
93 Askernish, Outer Hebrides
84 Prestwick St Nicholas, Ayrshire
75 Tain, Highlands
42 St Andrews (Jubilee), Fife
92 Nairn Dunbar, Highlands
83 Kilspindie, East Lothian
74 St Annes Old Links, Lancashire
41 Renaissance, East Lothian
73 Glasgow Gailes, Ayrshire
40 Machrihanish, Argyll
72 Gullane No 2, East Lothian
39 Gullane No 1, East Lothian
71 Pyle & Kenfig, South Wales
38 Machrihanish Dunes, Argyll
70 Wallasey, Merseyside
37 Burnham & Berrow, Somerset
69 Monifieth, Angus
36 Luffness, East Lothian
68 Perranporth, Cornwall
35 Rye, Kent
67 Littlestone, Kent
34 Aberdovey, North Wales
66 Saunton (West), Devon
33 Dundonald, Ayrshire
65 Seaton Carew, Durham
32 Southport & Ainsdale, Merseys’e
64 Leven Links, Fife
31 Silloth On Solway, Cumbria
63 Brora, Highlands
30 Hunstanton, Norfolk
62 Lundin, Fife
29 Royal Cinque Ports, Kent
61 Tenby, South Wales
28 West Lancashire, Merseyside
7 25 49 64
60 Conwy, Caernarvonshire
27 Castle Stuart, Highlands
22 42 62
3 10 50 94
54 63 75 14 27 92 99
93 11 19 23 52 100 2
56 58 69 96
1 44
8
38 40
59 Archerfield (Dirleton), E Lothian
26 Formby, Southport
9 36 39 41 95
58 Panmure, Angus
25 St Andrews (New), Fife
46 51 59 72 83
57 Prince’s, Kent
24 Western Gailes, Ayrshire
56 Montrose, Angus
23 Cruden Bay, Aberdeenshire
55 Pennard, South Wales
22 Kingsbarns, Fife
54 Golspie, Highlands
21 Royal Porthcawl, South Wales
53 Trevose, Cornwall
20 Hillside, Merseyside
52 Murcar, Aberdeenshire
19 Trump, Aberdeenshire
51 Dunbar, East Lothian
18 Royal Liverpool, Merseyside
50 Moray (Old), Moray
17 Royal West Norfolk, Norfolk
77
98
88
12 16
24 33 73
47 31
84 87 90
65
80 78
16 Prestwick, Ayrshire 4
5 20 26 97
15 Saunton (East), Devon
28 32 74 82 8660 91 89
14 Nairn, Highlands
70 18
13 St Enodoc, Cornwall 45
17
12 Royal Troon, Ayrshire
85
30
11 Royal Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire
43
10 Skibo Castle, Highlands
34
9 North Berwick, East Lothian 8 Turnberry (Ailsa), Ayrshire 7 St Andrews (Old), Fife 61
6 Royal St George’s, Kent
48 55
5 Royal Birkdale, Lancashire
71 21 66 15 13 53 68
76
37 35 81
79
6 29
4 Royal Lytham, Lancashire
67 57
3 Royal Dornoch, Highlands 2 Carnoustie, Angus 1 Muirfield, East Lothian
Wherever golf takes you, you’ll have that extra edge. G et serious.
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