Surrey Golf Mag Winter 2021/2022

ISSUE 27

WINTER 2021/22

SURREY GOLF T H E

M A G A Z I N E

F O R

S U R R E Y

C O U N T Y

G O L F E R S

COUNTY NEWS News and events from around Surrey

PRO TALK Sam Truman advises on winter equipment David Boote shares his experiences of life on the Challenge Tour

PLUS...

Woodbridge Golf Club is the perfect place to enjoy golf at a top 100 club Sam Heffer helps us keep fit for the golf course as we get older

GOLF SHOPPER The latest exciting new products for 2022

GO W Y TO GO A TO W

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Welcome...

As I write this, the UK is once again facing uncertain times with COVID, but I hope with Spring on the way, we all might have a reprieve, if only for a short time.

I hope you all had a great Christmas and New Year, and now sober enough to look ahead to the 2022 season.

In this edition of Surrey Golf Magazine...

We tee off with County Secretary, Steve McNeill and unveil the results of Surrey Knockouts and U14s winners. We welcome the return of the Rookie Tour and offer congratulations to Lottie Woad winner of both the girls’ and the women’s England Golf Order of Merit titles for 2021.

PGA Professional, Sam Truman makes sure you have the right equipment for your game this winter; David Boote gives us an insight into the Challenge Tour and Sam Heffer shares his tips on keeping fit for the golf course as you get older.

Woodbridge Golf Club, nestled near to the Suffolk coast, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is the perfect place to enjoy your golf at a top 100 club.

Check out our golf shopper pages for some great new products.

PUBLISHED BY Abstract Media Services Ltd Tel: 01883 370308 Editorial: Jo Habgood E: jo.habgood@abstractmediaservices.com Advertising: Justin King E: justin.king@abstractmediaservices.com Design: Mandy Boosey E: mandyboosey@yahoo.com SURREY COUNTY GOLF CONTACTS Tel: 01483 755788/www.surreygolf.org Knockout results, competitions, admin and accounts: Sue Henderson COUNTY OFFICERS County Secretary: Steve McNeill Assistant County Secretary: Caroline Hardy-Evans Treasurer: Colin Barr President: Terry Casey Chairman: Alan Page EG Voting Member: Steve McNeill TEAM CAPTAINS/MANAGER 1st Team Captain: Kieran Lovelock Seniors Manager: Pat Cunningham Junior U18/U17 Manager: Brian Woodham Junior U16/U15 Manager: Peter Millham Junior U14/U13 Manager: Marc Prince

Editor

Junior U12 Manager: Colin Moody Rookie Tour Manager: Bob Lacey Head County Coach: John Noble SURREY LADIES COUNTY GOLF ASSOCIATION

@surreygolfmag

Tel: 01483 751622/www.slcga.org President: Val Howard Ladies Secretary: Sarah Brown

We want to hear from you!

Send us your news big or small, individual or clubs.

Ladies Captain: Sue Wild

Email editor@surreygolfmag.com NEXT ISSUE – 1st April 2022

SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

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WHAT’S INSIDE...  SURREY LADIES 16 Lottie Woad – winner of both the girls’ and the women’s England Golf Order of Merit titles for 2021

 PRO TALK 18 PGA Professional, Sam Truman advises on checking and changing your equipment this winter

 COUNTY TALK 6 Tee off with County Secretary Steve McNeill

22 David Boote shares his experiences of life on the Challenge Tour

 GOLF AWAY

10 Results of Surrey Knockouts

20 Woodbridge Golf Club, situated near the Suffolk coast, is the perfect place to enjoy golf at a top 100 club

 COUNTY JUNIORS

n GOLF FITNESS

12 Surrey U14s winner and the return of the Rookie Tour

 GOLF SHOPPER

24 Sam Heffer helps us keep fit for the golf course as we get older

28 The latest ‘must have’ golf products on the market

 COUNTY NEWS

14 Matilde Santilli is ‘one to watch’

SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

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COUNTY TALK

ON THE

TEE with County Secretary STEVE MCNEILL

As I write this article the majority of the COVID restrictions have been relaxed, I hope and pray it remains that way, for everyone’s sake, as it would mean this terrible COVID is under control.

L

ooking back at 2021 the one standout positive for golf was the continued growth in club membership not only across Surrey, but the entire UK, not only is it fantastic to see so many people coming back to the game, but also the number of new players. Long may it last!

With this in mind, we in the Surrey office have worked hard to plan a full itinerary for the 2022 season, this includes the return of the fantastic U14 RookieTour, which thanks to COVID has not been played for the past two years, both myself and Bob Lacey, our volunteer, who does a brilliant job of running the tour, have no doubt that the tour will carry on where it left off, a total success in getting boys and girls into golf, plus giving a platform for those developing their game.

In addition, we have the County Championships for age groups, U12s to U18s. For the older players there is the Colts, Mid-Age, Seniors, Club Foursomes, and of course the County Championship itself, The Amateur.

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The county competitions are not only for the elite golfer, there are also many that the average golfer (like me) can compete in, such as the ever-popular County Card series of events which are, to all intents and purposes a County Society, for 2022 we have ten booked – see right. All these are events are stableford format played off the yellows and are open to all male adult affiliated members of Surrey County Golf.

Then of course we have the 14 county knockout competitions, these give a competitive opportunity to players from a range of handicaps and ages, from the scratch player upwards and junior to senior, the formats used are scratch and handicapped, played in either singles, pairs and club teams.

If you would like any further information on any of the above events we run for golfers of all ages and standards throughout the year please visit the Surrey website www.surreygolf. org or call us at the office on 01483 755788 and either Caroline, Sam, Sue or myself will be more than happy to assist you. We are here to help all our affiliated members and future members.

I really hope to see at one or more of our events.

May your drives be straight, your approaches be close, and your putts holed.

Cheers, Steve

COUNTY CARD MEETINGS Thursday 10th March Burhill Tuesday 5th April: West Hill Thursday 19th May: Hindhead Tuesday 21st June: West Byfleet Thursday 28th July: West Surrey Wednesday 31st August: Tandridge Tuesday 4th October: Hankley Common (First) Wednesday 19th October: Hankley Common (Second) * Thursday 3rd November: Effingham Wednesday 30th November: Walton Heath* *Hankley Common (second) and Walton Heath will be four ball better ball meetings and as such the WHS allowance will be 85% NOT 95% as indicated above.

If you would like any further information on any of the above, please visit the Surrey County Golf website www.surreygolf.org, or give the office a ring 01483 755788

SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

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Is poor sight affecting your golf game?

Cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration are the most likely conditions to affect vision. The Nuffield Health Guildford and Woking Hospitals shed some light on these conditions and how they can help get you back on the golf course.

Cataracts Cataract, a clouding of the natural lens of the eye, is the biggest cause of reversible blindness worldwide. Early signs include blurry vision, glare from car headlights and difficulty reading.

Blindness caused by cataracts is reversible with safe and effective surgery (the most common procedure carried out in the UK).

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) AMD is the most common reason behind blind registration in the UK. In AMD there is death of light-sensitive receptors in the retina. Signs of AMD include distortion, blurred vision and being unable to focus on your central vision. In some cases, we can treat AMD and may be able to improve your vision.

It’s usually done under local anaesthetic and completed within 20 minutes. An ultrasonic probe is inserted through a tiny incision in the cornea (outer layer) of the eye. This breaks down the lens so it can be easily removed before a synthetic lens is inserted to replace it.

Glaucoma Glaucoma often develops with no pain and no symptoms until it’s very advanced. Glaucoma often runs in families so it’s important to get regular eye health checks if you have a family history. Blindness caused by glaucoma is permanent but we can help to preserve your remaining vision.

How we can help

We offer rapid access to treatment with no waiting lists so you can be back playing golf sooner than you think. Our specialist eye clinics are run by highly experienced ophthalmologists, well known both locally and nationally for their excellent patient outcomes. Our extensive knowledge and access to the latest medical technology means we can offer advice, diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions.

Nuffield Health Guildford Hospital Call 01483 378 509 Visit nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/guildford

Nuffield Health Woking Hospital Call 01483 355 772 Visit nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/woking

Your guide to accessing private health treatment at Nuffield Health Hospitals

Accessing hospital treatment is easier than you may think. Pay for yourself, use private medical insurance or apply for a personal medical loan. We’re here to help guide you through the process.

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At our hospitals we have no waiting lists meaning you can pay for yourself and have your appointment quickly.

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If you require treatment, we’ll support you every step of the way through the Nuffield Health Promise where you receive a transparent price with no limits on your care*.

If you are paying for your procedure with medical insurance, then you need to liaise closely with your insurance provider throughout your treatment.

You should be aware of the terms and conditions of your policy.

*The Nuffield Health Promise means we will provide you with follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required if you experience a complication of your treatment/surgery. Your treating consultant will determine what is clinically required as a direct result of your procedure. The Nuffield Health Promise does not cover situations where the surgery fails to achieve the desired outcome due to known risks or complications of that procedure. Where a prosthesis or implants is/are required for your procedure, any problems that occur with a prosthesis or implants will be covered by the manufacturer’s own guarantee. The Nuffield Health Promise applies only to self-pay patients (including by way of our interest-free medical loans) but excludes treatment paid for through private medical insurance and fertility services. Find out more at nuffieldhealth.com/promise **Loans subject to status, terms and conditions apply.

COUNTY NEWS RESULTS

SURREY KNOCKOUTS carried over from 2020 Scratch Knockout Hindhead Golf Club (Sunday 17 October) Finalists – Sunningdale v Farnham Winners Farnham 3/2 Kelso Hamilton Final played at Reigate Heath Golf Club (Sunday 17 October) Finalists – Farnham v Bletchingley Winners Bletchingley 2up Both teams with trophy – Surrey Fives

County Card Foursomes West Byfleet Golf Club (Sunday 19 September) Finalists Farnham & Tyrrells Wood

John Ling Salver

Sam Wood, winner of the Surrey Masters

Tandridge Golf Club (Monday 18 October) Finalists – Roehampton v Silvermere Winners Roehampton 3/2

Surrey Amateur Masters Walton Heath Golf Club (Saturday 16 October) Winner Sam Wood (Bramley) – gross 68

Winners Farnham 1up

Surrey Fives

Juniors Order of Merit

Thornhill Trophy

Betchworth Park Golf Club (Sunday 24 October)

Sutton Green Golf Club (Sunday 24 October)

Walton Heath Golf Club (Sunday 10 October)

Finalists – Coombe Hill & Cranleigh

Finalists Royal Automobile Club v Burhill

Winners Coombe Hill 4/1

Nett Winner – Joshua Thompson (Windlesham) 25 OoM points

Scratch Salver Knockout

Surrey Junior Masters

Winners Royal Automobile Club 2/1 Juniors Christies Cups

Scratch Winner – Leo Vorobyev (Wentworth) 23 OoM points

Reigate Hill Golf Club (Sunday 7 November)

Sutton Green Golf Club (Sunday 24 October)

Windlesham Golf Club (Sunday 10 October)

Finalists – Guildford v Burhill

Winner Oliver George (Worplesdon) – gross 76

Finalists Addington Court v Camberley Heath

Winners Burhill 3.5/1.5

Winners Camberley Heath John Ling Trophy

1: Camberley Heath – Christies Cup Winners

Order of Merit & Surrey Masters Results 2021

2: Barry French and David Laval – Kelso Hamilton Winners

West Byfleet Golf Club (Wednesday 13 October)

Men’s Order of Merit

3: David-Stringer, Foxhills and Jeff Unger, Dulwich & Sydenham – Joint winners, John Ling Trophy

Walton Heath Golf Club (Saturday 16 October)

4: Farnham – Winners of the County Card Foursomes

Finalists – Foxhills and Dulwich & Sydenham

Winner Aadam Syed (Foxhills) – 76 OoM points

5: Oliver George, Junior Masters Winner

Trophy tied

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2

3

6: Royal Automobile Club – Winners, Thornhill Trophy

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5

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SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

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COUNTY JUNIORS

SURREY U14S

WINNERS A

fter the league was cancelled last year and the U14s lost to Kent the year before, Surrey were all looking forward to the opportunity to win back the prestigious league trophy.

This year the format has been changed and the final is now a triple match play event. The other finalists were Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire who were winners of their respect leagues.

The final was held at Dulwich and Sydenham golf club, a great course for the boys and a wonderful London skyline as the back drop.

Surrey had their usual practice day on the Saturday with Ben Clayton going through a full course prep session with the boys. In the match this really made a massive difference!

The result was incredibly close. Surrey and Hertfordshire tied at 5 points each,

Surrey U14s win the SEG league final by narrowest of margins. so a countback of matches won against Bedfordshire was required. Hertfordshire won 9 points and Surrey won 9.5 points so Surrey won by half a point!

Some great individual results on the day and quality golf but a special mention to Luke Jones who was one down with one to play against Bedfordshire. He managed to half his match by winning the 18th hole

and therefore our winning margin of half a point. This really highlights the importance of never giving up in matches and battling to the very end!

Congratulations to the U14s for the overall win, their hard work and success this year, and to their manager Marc Prince and coaches Ben Clayton and Sam Truman who helped them finish 2021 unbeaten!

THE RETURN OF THE ROOKIE TOUR After what seems like a very long two years, Surrey Golf are delighted to announce that the Rookie Tour will return in 2022, make sure you save the dates!

YIGS – Horton Park Sunday 10th April

RookieTour – Reigate Hill Sunday 5th June

RookieTour – Reigate Heath Thursday 7th April

RookieTour – Cranleigh Sunday 26th June

RookieTour – Puttenham Tuesday 12th April

YIGS – Hoebridge Sunday 17th July

RookieTour – Drift Sunday 24th April

RookieTour – Sutton Green Sunday 10th July

RookieTour – Shirley Park Sunday 8th May

RookieTour – Bramley Sunday 24th July

YIGS - Hoebridge Sunday 15th May

RookieTour – Cuddington Monday 1st August

RookieTour – Sunningdale Heath Thursday 2nd June

RookieTour – Gatton Manor Thursday 11th August

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RookieTour – Farnham Thursday 18th August YIGS – Horton Park Sunday 4th September Race to the Stars* – Camberley Heath TBA (* By invitation only)

Entry will be open in February next year, please keep an eye on the website www.surreygolf.org

SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

To arrange a visit to our state of the art Custom Fitting Suite call Mark at the office on 01932 344074, or email mark@lynxgolf.co.uk, to book in for a one-hour FREE fitting.

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COUNTY JUNIORS

ONE TO WATCH

MATILDE SANTILLI

PLAYER PROFILE Name: Matilde Santilli Age: 14 Club: Foxhills Handicap: +1 Competition wins/ titles/ placements: c U15 Girls County Champion 2021 c 1st place in U16 category at the Tyrrel Hatton Junior Masters 2021 c 3rd U14 at the R&A Girls U16 Amateur Championship 2021 c 4th U14 at England Girls U14/U16 Strokeplay Championship 2021 c Player with the most wins on 2019 Rookie Tour

When did you start playing golf and who was your inspiration?

How often do you play/practice?

I started playing when I was five-years-old and I instantly fell in love with the game when I tried it. No one in my family plays golf so I was mostly inspired by the older juniors at my club as I watched them practice together at the weekend.

In the summer I play pretty much everyday due to competitions and when I’m not playing I love to do skill drills to put pressure on my practice sessions. In the winter, I normally practice nearly everyday, mostly working on my swing and I usually play on the course on weekends.

Do you have a favourite player and who would be in your dream fourball?

Is finding time to play whilst managing school/work etc. difficult?

Nelly Korda, I love her attitude, discipline and determination to be the best and I also love watching her play whenever I get the chance. My dream fourball would be Collin Morikawa, Tiger Woods and Seve Ballesteros.

At the moment, I’m not finding it too difficult but I’m guessing it will be more challenging as I get closer to my GCSEs and A-levels.

What have been your career highlights so far?

Are there specific areas of your game that you work on and how do you monitor your results to try and identify any concerns you have?

When I was 13, I won Foxhills Club Championships which was great because I shot 3 under-par for the second time that season. Winning Junior County week and being part of the winning team at Women’s County Finals this year were also amazing experiences).

My putting is generally pretty strong but the area I currently need to work on is attacking the green, especially shots from 100-160 yards. I log all the statistics for my rounds on GolfDatalab which I use with my regional squad and Mygameforge which I use with my coach Pedro Lemos.

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What are your goals for 2022 and beyond?

During the winter I want to get stronger and work on my swing speed to gain more distance and accuracy for next season. I want to work hard on my game as well as the mental side so that in the future I will be able to win a national competition. My ultimate goal is to play college golf and later on turn professional to play on the LPGA tour, but that will take time and lots of hard work.

What advice would you give to young players just starting on their journey in golf?

My advice would firstly be to have fun and not take the game too seriously, as well as that I would say: to accept if something goes wrong on the course or at the range since it is part of the learning process.

Finally, what are your other interests when you are not playing golf?

When I’m not playing golf, I like to go out, especially going shopping with my mum. I also like to play football or other sports with my friends when I have time.

SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

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SURREY LADIES

WOAD AT THE DOUBLE as Order of Merit winners are determined

Lottie Woad has won both the girls’ and the women’s England Golf Order of Merit titles for 2021.

T

he 17-year-old from Farnham Golf Club in Surrey is one of five golfers to win Order of Merit honours for the season just finished.

Also topping the 2021 lists in their respective categories were Sam Bairstow (men), Jack Bigham (boys), Rupert Kellock (senior men) and Fiona Edmond (senior women) The six Orders of Merit are decided by a points system based on performances in key regional, national and UK-wide events staged during the 2021 season.

Woad’s excellent season saw her pick

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up points in both junior and women’s events and match the feat of Lily May Humphreys from 2019 when she also enjoyed success in both categories.

Humphreys has since turned pro and has recently earned full playing rights on the LET for 2022.

Woad’s victories in 2021 included the Welsh Ladies’ Open Stroke Play, the Liphook Scratch Cup and the Critchley Salver.

The England girls’ squad member said: “Although you never set out at the start of a season thinking about Order of Merit titles, it’s brilliant to win them because it shows that your game has been consistently good over the course of the year.

“It’s also special for me to win both titles at a point in my development when I’m trying to combine playing in junior as well as women’s events.

“As I look to take the next step in

my career, play more women’s events at home and abroad and prepare to go to college in America in 2022, it is reassuring for me to know that I can compete at different age groups with some success.

“Winning the Welsh Ladies’ Open Stroke Play title this year was a highlight for me – playing consistently is one thing but it’s always special getting over the line to win a national title.

“As well as continuing to play a mixture of girls’ and women’s events in 2022, I look forward to getting the chance to compete in events abroad that hopefully will once again be a regular feature of the schedule.”

“Although not linked directly to the Order of Merit, the Open experience is something that I will also treasure forever and was something I was able to put to good use in Order of Merit events that followed.”

SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

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PRO TALK

CHECKING & CHANGING YOUR EQUIPMENT THIS WINTER

The quick start guide to making sure you have the right equipment for your game this winter and a helping hand in finding new equipment that’s right for you by PGA Professional, Sam Truman

A

s a coach I constantly see golfers who have equipment that doesn’t help them improve. In some cases they have equipment that is physically holding them back from hitting the ball longer and/or straighter.

However, if you have equipment that you really like, or you have a specific club that always works better than anything else you try, you need to start to understand why? This will help you make better purchases in the future.

DRIVER AND WOODS Tips for finding the right driver and woods: c Get a fitting this winter with a trained fitting specialist. This will help you understand the precise set up needed in your driver from loft, length,

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head options (size and bias) and shaft. c Don’t be afraid to try new brands or new models. If you’ve been a fan of a certain company for many years, there may be a better option with a different brand of club. c Make sure you know what you are trying to achieve with ball flight. If you want to reduce the curve a certain way a fitting specialist can help you find a club that will work with you long term as your swing and club delivery improves.

lie checked to make sure that they are set up in the way they should be.

Have a think about what you need from your irons? Do you need more control or do you need more distance?

With the help of a fitting specialist you can either enhance your current set with a new set up (loft and lie) or a new shaft (to help increase/decrease launch or alter spin). Or alternatively you can look at new combinations of head and shaft to match your needs.

IRON SETS

Wedges are commonly the clubs in your bag that need to be changed and updated most frequently.

Every golfer needs a wedge with fresh enough grooves to maintain control around the greens. I would always

How to know if your irons are right for you?

If you have played a lot of golf over the course of the last year the first thing to do is to get your clubs loft and

WEDGES

SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

PRO TALK

PUTTERS Most people choose their putter by liking the look of it. The danger of this is that what you like the look of may not match your tendencies as accurately as it could with a better fit putter.

There are so many ways that you can tailor a putter to an individual. Go and see a fitting specialist to understand what you would need in a putter and that can help you pinpoint the putters on the market that best match your needs.

A winter spent understanding your game and how your equipment can help propel your game forwards will have a dramatic impact come the new season in the spring. Always refer back to your coaches and a trained fitting specialist to help you make these changes.

If you need help with checking your equipment or testing something new, the trained specialists at the Surrey Golf Lab will be more than happy to give you a helping hand.

recommend changing your wedges every 18 months to two years so that you always have predictable spin with your pitch shots and chip shots.

A fitting specialist can also help you find the best combination of lofts and design of your wedges. They can help you match the conditions of the courses you play most frequently with the club set up that matches them.

SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

Sam Truman is a PGA Professional based at The Surrey Golf Lab, Reigate Hill Golf Club and is regarded as one of the best young performance coaches in the region.

Sam is able to provide clients with access to the most up to date golf coaching technology at one of the best practice facilities in the UK

Current roles include: • Performance Coach – Hugh Marr Golf • Surrey Boys (U12’s & U14’s) and Girls (U18’s) County Coach • Elite Academy Coach for Whitgift School

Clients are exposed to Trackman club and ball tracking and also the SAM Putt Lab Analysis System in the new indoor putting studio.

For more information follow Sam on:

@SamTrumanGolf Under the tutorship of European Tour Coach @SamTrumanGolf Hugh Marr, Sam prides himself in providing the best holistic coaching experiences for his E: SamTrumanGolf@gmail.com players. Sam works with all levels of golfers from the young aspiring junior all the way up to European tour professionals.

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GOLF AWAY

WOODBRIDGE GOLF CLUB N estled near to the Suffolk coast, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Woodbridge Golf Club is the perfect place to enjoy your golf at a top 100 club. Boasting 27 magnificent heathland holes, the club welcomes visitors to experience all that it has to offer.

Over the past six years, the courses have been transformed with a full renovation of all bunkers, tree and gorse removal, plus the encouragement of extending the heather profile. Restoring the heathland beauty to its former glory has been carried out under the

watchful eye of Head Greenkeeper, Paul Lawrence and in association with renowned course architect, Martin Hawtree. The playing surfaces are a joy to behold, with beautifully manicured fescue fairways and greens, which are the envy of many clubs.

Well respected for its warm welcome, this is a must visit club and a top destination in East Anglia, so don’t miss the opportunity to play.

For more information, please contact the club: golf@woodbridgegolfclub.co.uk 01394 382038 https://woodbridge.intelligentgolf.co.uk

East Anglia’s Finest...

Woodbridge provides two exciting courses set in spectacular surroundings with quick draining conditions enabling all year round golf at your leisure...

HEATH COURSE: A golfing challenge of the highest standard, this 6299 yard course requires accuracy and strategic skill to manoeuvre around.

FOREST COURSE: A full length 9 hole course (6382 yards over 18 holes). Probably the best 9 hole course in the county and no handicap certificate required to play.

Woodbridge Golf Club, Bromeswell Heath Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 2PF golf@woodbridgegolfclub.co.uk 01394 382038 https://woodbridge.intelligentgolf.co.uk

2021 12 Surrey Golfer Golf Breaks.qxp_90mm w x 125mm h 10/12/2021 0

SL

Wish you were here...

Since 1997

BOOK YOUR GETAWAY TO GOLF IN SPAIN BEST GOLF RATES SL

ON THE COSTA DEL SOL Discounted green fees on the best golf courses in Southern Spain.

Discounted Accommodation and Golf Packages.

Airport and golf transfers.

We offer a personal service with first-hand knowledge of local courses.

Set in the heart of Suffolk and located just off the A12, our 18 hole, par 71 course is ideal for all abilities.

Visit the on-site AmericanGolf superstore and practice your swing on our 2 tier floodlit driving range, all before you even set foot on our award-winning, top winter course.

Golf Breaks from as little as £140.00* per person Our Golf Breaks include dinner, full English breakfast, and complimentary access to our gym and swimming pool. * Terms and conditions apply.

Look no further call us now

tel: (+34) 952 93 68 03 info@gastongolf.com

www.gastongolf.com

t 01394 382836 w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW

THE LITHIUM SPECIALISTS The Tru-Mark golf ball marker is a new and innovative design to help improve golfer accuracy when marking the ball on the green. The Tru-Mark marker is designed to help golfers eliminate unintentional errors when marking a ball on the green. The R&A has confirmed that the design of the Tru-Mark marker does not infringe the rules of golf.

Buy a standard or personalised Tru-Mark marker at www.tru-mark.co.uk – also available for clubs and companies to badge or logo via Paterson Golf at www.patersongolf.com topcaddy@btconnect.com | topcaddy.co.uk | 01236879815

info@tru-mark.co.uk www.tru-mark.co.uk

SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

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PRO TALK

LIFE ON THE 2021 CHALLENGE TOUR This was my 4th year on the Challenge Tour. It’s flown by to be honest and it’s a reality that comes with mixed emotions...

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SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

PRO TALK I’m partly excited because I feel a lot more settled on the tour now, having been one of the more consistent players over the course of four years.

However, it is tinged with the disappointment of having not made the step up to the main tour yet. In my time playing in main tour events I feel as if my game is now ready for the European Tour and I’m looking forward to putting in more hard work this winter with the great team I have around me to hopefully come out strong in 2022.

Since I’ve been on the tour for four years now I felt like it was a good opportunity to give a little taste of what life is like playing golf around the world trying to make it through to the highest levels of professional golf.

I get asked a lot of questions from members as well as family and friends so I’ve compiled a list of the most common questions about the challenge tour to show you a little bit about what life is like...

wouldn’t go on holiday to, so you really feel like you get to see more of the local culture.

What’s the favourite place you’ve been to?

Do you have a caddie?

My favourite place I’ve been to play golf on the Challenge Tour is South Africa. We normally go there during the winter months and the weather at that time is always excellent. I’ve been lucky to go on a few safaris and the wildlife is incredible.

What’s been your favourite golf course?

My favourite course we’ve played has got to be Portmarnock Links. We played the Irish Challenge there this year and it truly is a great test, and a European Tour standard venue. It helps that I had one of my best weeks there this year!

Do you enjoy the travel?

Yes, I love the travel. Obviously there are times when things get a little tedious week in week out such as queueing at airports or renting cars every week, but we do get to see some really cool parts of the world while playing golf at the same time.

I actually like how on the Challenge Tour we go to some of the more remote parts of Europe which you probably

SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

Who do you travel with?

I normally travel and share hire cars with a couple of other guys from the tour. We tend to book Airbnb’s as we prefer to get away from the hotels and have more freedom to cook for ourselves.

Is there good camaraderie between players on tour?

Yes there is for the most part.

Obviously there are stories of guys not getting on or having disagreements but luckily I’ve never been involved in any of these situations!

Who’s your coach?

Does he travel?

My coach is Neil Matthews. He’s the Welsh National coach and is based in Newport. I tend to try and get him out a couple of times a year, but next year I may try and get him out more.

Currently I don’t have a regular caddie. I’ve had a tough time finding somebody who I believe is adding a big benefit to my game. Hopefully this is something I can figure out next year as it is a requirement on the European Tour.

What’s the longest time you’ve been away from home for?

The longest time I’ve been away from home for is probably only three to four weeks over the past couple of years, apart from being in South Africa. I’m lucky to live in Surrey – it means I’m close to two major airports – Gatwick and Heathrow, so it gives me plenty of options to fly home directly on a Sunday evening and then onwards on a Monday evening or Tuesday morning.

What’s the best thing about being on tour?

The best thing about being on tour is the fact I get to play golf all the time as my job. I’ve always loved the idea of being a pro golfer travelling round the world and now I’m able to live that out.

And the worst thing about being on tour?

Finding enough food to eat. I know that may seem comical, but a well known fact about me to my friends and family is that I have a lot of very serious food allergies. This sometimes makes eating out tricky depending on what country we’re in and I often have to pack my own food and supplements.

Do you have any advice for younger players coming through wanting to give professional golf a go?

I would say think about your fitness levels and your ability to handle adversity. Professional golf seasons are long and have very little breaks.

The train never stops as my old college coach used to say. So get used to playing many events in a row in back to back weeks, manage your fitness and energy levels.

Also, professional golf is all about making your good weeks great. A missed cut here and there is not going to hurt you if you have a really high finish somewhere. So don’t let your poor or below expectation golf get you down. Keep your head up and move onto the next week and make that the week you have your best finish of the season!

@davidboote123

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GOLF FITNESS

YOU’RE NOT 21 ANYMORE? RESULT!

By Sam Heffer

P

ossibly the biggest barrier to getting a bit fitter for the golf course is age. Or perhaps more accurately, people thinking that their age is stopping them from: c getting fitter, c feeling stronger, c losing weight and c gaining confidence on the course.

They think that not being in their 20s anymore is a bad thing! I think not being in my 20s anymore is a result to be honest.

Like a lot of others, I turned to golf after giving up playing team sports which has led me to discover a few things: c it’s far more relaxing c it still satisfies a competitive spirit c you’re not relying on anybody else c I’m far better at golf than I ever was at football!

Granted the hangovers are still not great to play with, but dare I say that golf is a far more enjoyable sport to give up time for.

The best part? Since replacing the team sports with golf I can get away

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with doing much less than I used to and still keep in reasonable shape!

This is important for me and my clients, because by taking care of ourselves in a balanced yet still sociable way, we know we’ll be out there enjoying our golf for years whilst also extending the time we have to get better too which is a very welcome bonus!

Here are some very basic habits I encourage: c Lift weights 2-3 times a week at a suitable intensity c Find the exercise that fits you rather than forcing yourself to fit the exercise c Spend time outside daily c Eat sensibly 70-80% of the time c Drink 2-3 litres of water daily c Leave some room for a few pints or more indulgent food c Play golf at the weekend These habits don’t sound very sexy but when added up over time will lead to feeling younger on the course, increasing confidence and playing golf with even more enjoyment! Plus extending the time you have to get better at golf.

Sounds decent, yet for some that’s just not happening. Why? Because they’re holding onto a misled belief that being fit means you should be training like you’re still in your 20s.

A lot of general population golfers are missing out on what they can do because they’ve been misguided on what they should do which is more often than not gruelling exercise regimes and overly restrictive diets.

By falling into the ‘should do’ trap they end up doing the worst thing possible. Which is nothing.

Frustratingly leading to the time they have left on the golf course not being enjoyed as much as it could be.

Sam is a fitness coach who specialises in helping golfers lose weight, feel younger, increase confidence and enjoy playing golf without giving up a social life.

Email sam@samgolffitness.com or visit samgolffitness.com for help getting started with a personal training programme.

SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

L anhydrock Hotel & G olf club “Outstanding golf course and service - best course in the South West! We shall return.” - September 2021 Give us a call and book direct to secure your relaxing, Cornish golf getaway for 2022 & make the most of our amazing golf break deals!

golf@lanhydrockhotel.com

01208 262570

www.lanhydrockhotel.com

Lanhydrock Hotel & Golf Club, Lostwithiel Road, Bodmin, Cornwall PL30 5AQ

STONEHAM GOLF CLUB Hotel, cottages and holiday homes by the beautiful Helford River in south Cornwall.

9 hole/18 tee parkland golf course • Spa • Restaurant • Tennis • Kayaking • Boat trips

The club was established in 1908

by Willie Park Junior, designer of Sunningdale Old Course. Although it is short by today’s championship standards, it is not a course that will be overpowered, and brain will reward you more than brawn!

The course is in magnificent condition and has attracted the English Women’s Stroke Play Championship for 2024. This club will no doubt

attract the attention of the R&A for some of their events in the future.

Additionally, the club has recently invested heavily in it’s practice facilities and has spent £1.2 million on the state of the art ‘Stoneham Academy’. As a result, the club has produced a superb full-length driving range (accompanied with TrackMan technology in each bay!) and a fantastic short game area.

Monks Wood Close, Bassett, Southampton, SO16 3TT T: 023 80 769272 E: reception@stonehamgolfclub.org.uk www.stonehamgolfclub.org.uk

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Helford Passage, Mawnan Smith, Nr Falmouth, Cornwall TR11 5LG Hotel bookings: 01326 252100 Golf Club: 01326 252102 relax@budockvean.co.uk www.budockvean.co.uk @BudockVeanHotel www.facebook.com/BudockVeanHotel @BudockVeanHotel

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What will you do? sell your home? get on the property ladder? invest in your area? let your property?

Contact us today 020 8669 9333 info@kenyons-estateagents.co.uk www.kenyons-estateagents.co.uk

Your Sales & Lettings Experts your high street agent

GOLF SHOPPER

CRAFTSMANSHIP WITH LUXURY FINISHES New Honma Beres ranges take super premium clubs to next level

The latest installment of the brand’s most sought after product line combines the latest game enhancing technology, high quality materials and ultra-modern construction with legendary craftsmanship and luxury finishes to produce the ultimate set of clubs for lower swing-speed players seeking more enjoyment from their game.

The sleek simplicity of the new eye-catching BLACK design embodies the power and purity of the clubs, while building on the positive reaction to the limitededition range launched earlier. For the first time in the European golf market, several variations of hand-painted, lacquered Japanese art patterns feature on the clubheads of the AIZU woods and irons designed to appeal to both men and women golfers with an eye for aesthetics.

WHAT’S

HOT 4

RRP from £420 for BERES BLACK and £500 for AIZU. www.honmagolf.com

HYBRID VERSATILITY Sun Mountain, the market leader in premium golf bags, continues to push the boundaries with the launch of its 2022 bag collection, spearheaded by yet another industry first – the versatile H2NO SPORT FAST hybrid bag with recessed legs.

Offering the dual capability of a flexible stand bag and a sturdy cart bag, both legs of the H2NO SPORT FAST model recess into the bag’s body to ensure they remain protected and concealed when secured to a trolley or buggy. A rubberised bumper offers extra durability.

Weighing 3.1kg and available in five colours, the fully waterproof bag features a 10.5" top with 14 full length dividers to protect and organise clubs; seven forward-facing pockets with water-resistant zippers and taped seams; plus, the E-Z Lite Dual Strap System for carrying.

RRP £179/€209 www.brandfusion.co.uk 28

SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

GOLF SHOPPER

AS LITE AS A FEATHER BIG MAX is launching its lightest ever full-size stand bag, the incredibly versatile Dri Lite Feather. Weighing in at just 1.5kg the Dri Lite Feather is a remarkable design that eliminates all excess weight while retaining a host of practical features including a full size top, hybrid trolley compatible base and bags of storage space.

Stylish modern design and 5 colour options finish off this unique package that combines the best practical innovations that BIG MAX has to offer.

RRP: £169.99 Available in Black, Grey/Black, Lime/Black/Charcoal, Navy/Red/ White, Red/Black/White www.bigmaxgolf.com

CLEAN UP AS YOU GO

PLASTIC FREE

Clean Flight Golf personal ball washer launches in UK market The Clean Flight personal ball washer provides a hygienic, convenient, personal solution to keeping your golf ball clean on the course. With communal washers just returning to tee boxes after being highlighted as a potential hotspot for germs, Clean Flight gives golfers a simple, safe alternative, while providing the convenience of having a ball washer with you whether on the tee, on the green, or when playing preferred lies.

Made of high impact polystyrene and stainless-steel hardware for strength and durability. Inside is a patent pending variable brush system which allows the ball to oscillate for a more thorough cleaning. Included in the package is one golf ball washer, strap with carabiner and a 30ml bottle of cleaning solution. RRP £35 www.cleanflightgolf.com @GolfFLight @cleanflightgolf @CleanFlightGolf SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE

The Bigger Ball – eliminating plastic tees!

The widest range of bamboo tees available – as strong as plastic and better in every other way!

• Plastic free • Hard wearing • Sustainably sourced • Vivid design • 100% bamboo smooth finish We work with clubs!

Get in touch to see how we can help reduce your club’s plastic use.

RRP £11.99 www.thebiggerball.com james@thebiggerball.com @thebiggerball @thebiggerball

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DRIVE YOUR

DREAM

CLASSIC Self drive classic car hire

RNG CLASSICS www.rngclassics.com @rngclassics

GOLF HOLIDAYS

SINCE 2010 A full schedule of events in Scotland, South Africa, The Canaries, Spain, Portugal and Corfu.

PROGRAMME JANUARY – OCTOBER 2022

Tenerife Canary Island Golf Week

08/01/22 – 15/01/22

Erinvale (South Africa) Erinvale Festival 1 Erinvale Festival 2

13/02/22 – 26/02/22 27/02/22 – 12/03/22

Vilamoura (Portugal) Dona Filipa Festival

01/04/22 – 08/04/22

Costa Daurada – Spring Spring Festival

23/04//22 – 30/04/22

Corfu Golf – Spring Golf Week 1 Festival & Championship Golf Week 2

02/05/22 – 09/05/22 09/05/22 – 16/05/22 16/05/22 – 23/05/22

Loch Lomond Loch Lomond 1 Loch Lomond 2

26/06/22 – 02/07/22 03/07/22 – 09/07/22

Turnberry Turnberry Golf Break

11/09/22 – 14/09/22

Costa Daurada Costa Daurada 1 Costa Daurada 2

17/09/22 – 24/09/22 24/09/22 – 01/10/22

Corfu Golf – Autumn Autumn Festival

03/10/22 – 10/10/22

El Rompido El Rompido Golf Festival

15/10/22 – 22/10/22

Each trip comprises of 24-36 players made up of single golfers, couples and small groups with a mixture of teams, pairs and individual competitions each week. The onus is on social golf with a competitive edge in a relaxed atmosphere with other like-minded golfers.

Everything is organised for you, so all you have to concentrate on is playing golf and enjoying yourself. Ken attends every event to personally ensure your holiday goes smoothly.

For further information or to book please contact Ken Stevely: 07803 921737 ken.stevely@outlook.com

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LAUNCHING SOON