Surrey Golf Mag Spring 2023

SURREY GOLF

THE MAGAZINE FOR SURREY COUNTY GOLFERS

PRO TALK

David Boote’s 2023 Challenge Tour

Sam Truman –custom fit golf clubs could change your game for the better

COUNTY NEWS

News and events from around Surrey

The Downs Trophy returns to Purley Downs Golf Club, this September

GOLF BREAK

Discover the delights of North Cornwall at The Point at Polzeath

PLUS...

The power of ‘self talk’ with David MacKenzie

The latest new products for 2023

Welcome...

2023 is now in full swing, but it appears we are still waiting for the sun to join us! The courses are getting busier and the competitions are underway. Check out page 10 for a full list of county card meetings and county championships and get booked in – they are filling up fast!

Also in this edition:

Steven McNeill tells us about the array of events and competitions happening throughout the year to celebrate 100 years of Surrey County Golf.

The Downs trophy returns to Purley Downs on September 24th. Sam Truman talks you through the importance of custom fitting your golf clubs and David McKenzie helps you to boost your self confidence. David Boote tells us about his start to the 2023 Challenge Tour.

If you are looking for a break away check out The Point at Polzeath –the perfect base from which to explore all that North Cornwall has to offer.

Take a look at page 34 and check out some of the exciting new products on offer for 2023.

PUBLISHED BY

Abstract Media Services Ltd

Tel: 01883 370308

Editorial: Jo Habgood

E: jo.habgood@abstractmediaservices.com

Advertising: Justin King

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Design: Mandy Boosey

E: mandyboosey@yahoo.com

SURREY COUNTY

GOLF CONTACTS

Tel: 01483 755788/www.surreygolf.org

County Secretary: Steve McNeill

Assistant County Secretary: Caroline Hardy-Evans

Golf Manager: Andrew Mead

Administrator: Sue Henderson

COUNTY OFFICERS

Chairman: Alan Page

Treasurer: Colin Barr

Chairman: Terry Casey

EG Voting Member: Steve McNeill

TEAM CAPTAINS/MANAGER

1st Team Captain: David Corben

Seniors Manager: David Boxall

Junior U18/U17 Manager: Marc Prince

Junior U16/U15 Manager: Steve McNeill

Junior U14/U13 Manager: Bob Lacey

Junior U12 Manager: Bob Lacey

Rookie Tour Manager: Bob Lacey

Head County Coach: John Noble

SURREY LADIES COUNTY

GOLF ASSOCIATION

Tel: 01483 361593/www.slcga.org

President: Chris Braidwood

Secretary: Ann McMahon

Captain: Jane Bathurst

WHAT’S INSIDE...

 COUNTY TALK

6 Tee off with County Secretary, Steve McNeill, as the county prepare to celebrate 100 years

 COUNTY NEWS

8 The Downs Trophy returns to Purley Downs Golf Club this September

10 County card meetings and championships for 2023

 COUNTY LADIES

12 Wins, news and events from Surrey Ladies County Golf Association

 COUNTY JUNIORS

14 Ava Bates is one to watch

 PRO TALK

18 PGA Professional Sam

Truman takes us through the reasons why custom fit golf clubs could change your game for the better

20

 PSYCHOLOGY

22 The power of ‘self talk’ with David MacKenzie

 GOLF BREAKS

24 The Point at Polzeath – the perfect base from which to explore North Cornwall

 GOLF SHOPPER

30 Discover what’s hot for 2023

32 A fantastic new golf glove from Coppertech

34 Chervòs new springsummer 23 clothing collection

David Boote’s 2023 Challenge Tour

TEE ON THE

with County Secretary

STEVE MCNEILL

Well here we are in our 100th year as Surrey County Golf, as I mentioned in the last issue, there is an array of events and competitions happening throughout the year that give the opportunity for all players affiliated to Surrey County Golf to get involved in some way.

Starting with the Centenary Stableford Competition. Each club has been asked to nominate a Stableford Competition with the winners going onto represent the club in one of several second-round events held by the county, the top ten from each of these will go forward to the Grand Final.

The competition will include two handicap categories for men and one category for junior boys, meaning with well over 100 affiliated clubs in Surrey there will potentially be three players from each club that’s 300+ competitors in the second-round!

In addition, each club can enter their captain and professional into another Stableford, with two qualifying events

held by the county and those who make it through competing in a Grand Final.

In September we are holding a Pro Am at Burhill Golf Club with all the professionals who have been invited to take part having played for the Surrey 1st team whilst they were amateurs.

Each club in the county has been asked to hold a draw and put forward two affiliated members to fill the amateur places, with one player from each club guaranteed a spot, the other, put into a draw to fill any spare spots. Those who are lucky enough to get a place will play as a guest of the county.

At the end of the year, we will be hosting a celebration Gala Dinner, which will be a fitting way to end our centenary year.

Each club has been asked to supply information on their history along with pictures, to be included in a ‘coffee table book’ currently being produced on the history of Surrey County Golf.

Each club will be given one of these limited-edition numbered books with others being available at cost price for

any members who wish to purchase one.

I have no doubt this will be an amazing year for Surrey County Golf and all the affiliated clubs and members.

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

Cheers, Steve

If you would like any further information on any of the events mentioned that we run for golfers of all ages and standards throughout the year, please visit the Surrey Golf 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 you at one or more of our events. And remember the kettle is on!

DOWNS TROPHY

The Downs Trophy, held annually at Purley Downs Golf Club, returns this year on Sunday 24th September

Since 1971, some of the best players in the south east of England head to Purley Downs to compete in the Downs Trophy, a 36-hole scratch event traditionally held in the autumn months of September or October.

The past winners list is rich in talent. It includes the infamous Reg Glading (1972), well-known local players such as Alan Way from Woodcote Park (1983), Bruce Hilsdon (1984), and Purley’s serial winner, Mike Kirby (1987 and 1990). Former England players James Heath, Ed Richardson, Tom Thurloway and Ben Wheeler have also had success in the Downs Trophy in previous years.

Last year’s winner was Richard Marett from Royal Wimbledon with 143 (75 – 68), his afternoon score being the best on the day by 4 shots. The club looks forward to welcoming Richard back to defend the trophy.

As one of the final qualifying competitions for the Surrey Order of Merit, the Downs Trophy attracts players looking for valuable points late on in the season.

COURSE

The Purley Downs club recently celebrated 125 years, founded in 1894 on the free-draining downland slopes of South London. The chalk base layer means the course is playable all year round, and is at its best when running hard and fast. Thanks to recent investment and good management the greens are fast and true, but the many subtle undulations and slopes provide a challenge to golfers of every level.

Purley Downs Golf Club course was designed by J.H. Taylor, one of the famous triumvirate of Taylor, Vardon and Braid. The course is not now long enough for elite professionals but it

was in 1933 when Percy Alliss won The News of the World Professional Matchplay there.

The course also benefits from some of the finest views over London. From the highest vantage points you have a wonderful panoramic view, taking in sights such as Wembley Stadium, the London Eye, the Shard, Gherkin, Canary Wharf, along with many other City landmarks. Hampstead Heath.

Harrow-on-the Hill and the Chilterns are also visible.

The course begins with what has been described as “perhaps the best opening par-3 in golf”, a downhill hole of 160 yards, in front of the clubhouse and often with a watching crowd. The front 9 contains 3 long par 4’s, in particular the 6th measuring 464 yards, uphill and normally into the prevailing wind. Many of the back 9 holes are lower down

and less affected by the wind, and scoring tends to be better than the more difficult front 9. In particular, the short par 3 15th and driveable par 4 16th offer birdie chances before the final two testing holes. The course par is 70 with a course rating of 71.1 and a slope of 124 from the championship tees.

REFLECTION

Oszkar Lazar is one of few people to be a multiple winner of the Downs Trophy (1995 and 2001).

“I’ve played in this event on many occasions, having briefly been a member at Purley, and always looked forward to returning. The course is presented in fantastic condition. The challenge is dealing with the slopes and invariably a bit of a breeze!

The first time I won, I decided, on the practice putting green just before my tee-time, to try a reverse grip for the

first time, having seen it on TV. Couldn’t miss all day. The second time was when the Downs was played in October, and it was wet and windy. I won that year being the last-man-standing rather than shooting the lights out! Now I’m eligible for senior events, I think I’ll leave it this year for the young guns!

I thoroughly recommend playing in the Downs Trophy to prove you’re up for the challenge!”

TO ENTER

The entry details are on the club website www.purleydowns.co.uk

Entry this year will be online only and the cost of £70 includes breakfast rolls, lunch, afternoon tea and substantial prizes.

Entries close on Monday 4th September 2023

COUNTY CARD MEETINGS 2023

Format on the day: Coffee, bacon roll, an eighteen hole Single Stableford Competition, WHS allowance of 95% and for the two 4BBB formats 85%. A max handicap index 28, followed by a two-course meal, plus prizes for the lucky winners!

PETER ALLISS MEMORIAL TROPHY

4th, 5th & 6th July 2023

Royal Mid Surrey Golf Club

JH Taylor Course

72 holes Stroke Play – Mixed Event

WORLD AMATEUR GOLF RANKING EVENT

Tournament dates:

4th July 2023 afternoon: Practice Round

5th July 2023: Rounds 1 and 2

6th July 2023: Rounds 3 and 4

There is no half way cut. Competitors will play all four rounds.

Field size: 72 players

Entry criteria: Entries will be accepted for Male and Female players with a handicap index of 0.0 or below for this Mixed Event.

Entry fee: £150.00

Includes practice round and buffet lunch on both days.

Any adult male who is an affiliated member of a Surrey Club are eligible to play in these events. Entries are via the Surrey Golf Website (www.surreygolf.org). Please note the entrance fee must be paid at time of entry. If you wish to make up your own three ball, please drop a note to Sue Henderson with details to office@surreygolf.org. However, please note all players must have already entered and paid online as we are unable to hold spaces. The County Card Meetings are organised for the benefit and enjoyment of affiliated (adult male) Surrey members, they are run on the basis as a society day and are non-profit making for the county. If you wish to play in one of the meetings of a club you are a member of, please contact the office for the cost.

COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIPS 2023

For any adult and junior affiliated male members of a Surrey golf club

Close of entries: Midday, Wednesday 21st June 2023. If oversubscribed a handicap ballot will take place.

Prizes: 1st Prize: £700. Prizes to 6th place

Competition entry: All entries via the Surrey County Golf website: surreygolf.org

To enter please visit surreygolf.org where both entry and payment can now be made online, please note payment must be made at the time of entry. If payment is not made at the same time, your entry will automatically be removed from the draw.

TANDRIDGE LADIES WIN ANNODATA FINALS IN SPAIN!

match play to reach the Grand Finals, which were played at the Montescatillo Resort near Seville.

NEW TROPHY IN MEMORY OF FRANCES MCADAM

Huge congratulations to the women’s team from Surrey club, Tandridge, who have won the Annodata Golf Club Classic Match Play. Tandridge won their way through seven rounds of five a-side

Once in Spain, Tandridge took on Scottish club, Glenbervie, in the semifinal and were victorious 3-2. They played Berkshire club, Sand Martins, in the final on Thursday, 9 March. Once again, Tandridge prevailed and took the title. Congratulations to the team and everyone at Tandridge. A fantastic result!

The Annodata Golf Classic is a national club team event involving over 500 teams, with the final four making the journey to Spain.

BEST VOLUNTEERS OF YEAR AWARD

Sandown Park Golf duo, Sonia McCarthy and Kirsty Joly won the Volunteer of the Year award at the England Golf 2023 Awards ceremony in Manchester on 2nd March. They beat three other nominees to take the title which recognises those whose activities and achievements have made an impact on their club. Sonia and Kirsty, who are relatively new to golf, joined Sandown in 2022. They are now hooked! They have driven female membership at the club from just two to 100 in the space of a year, with many of these women achieving a handicap for the first time. Their energy and enthusiasm has created a welcoming and supportive environment for women of all ages and abilities. Huge congratulations to Sonia and Kirsty.

SOUTH REGION WOMEN AND GIRLS’ ALL AGE CHAMPIONSHIP – ENTRIES OPEN

The South Region Women and Girls’ All Age Championship is being hosted by Surrey this year. The 36 hole stroke play Championship will be played at Burhill Golf Club on Wednesday 5th July 2023. Competitors will have the chance to play both the Old and the New courses at Burhill. Entries are invited from players who are members of golf clubs in Surrey, Hampshire, Middlesex, Kent and Sussex. Online entry is now open via the SLCGA website: www.slcga.org/south_region

SURREY JUNIOR GIRLS’ EVENTS – NO ENTRY FEES!

The SLCGA is encouraging more girls to play golf. As part of the drive to attract greater participation, entry to all Surrey Junior girls’ events will be free of charge this year. There are competitions for girls of all standards and handicaps, details of which can be found on the SLCGA website: www.slcga.org/junior_competitions

The SLCGA also runs a range of coaching sessions covering all ages and abilities. If you know any girls who would like to get involved, please contact secretary@slcga.org. Junior Organiser, Karen Francis, and all the SLCGA coaches are committed to making golf accessible and fun so please encourage any Junior girls you know to sign up.

A new trophy is being added to the list of awards at the Surrey Ladies’ County Championships to be played on the JH Taylor course at Royal Mid-Surrey from Friday, 14th April to Sunday, 16th April.

The Frances McAdam Salver will be presented to the mid-age player (over 26 years old) with the best 36 hole gross score in the qualifying stroke play. Frances, who sadly passed away last September, was a great supporter of Surrey women’s golf, having been Captain of the county 1997-8 and President 2007-9. It is appropriate that the inaugural playing of the trophy will take place at Royal Mid-Surrey where Frances was a long-time member.

Entries to the Championship are open https://www.slcga.org/ competition.php?compid=36

There will be a 36 hole medal qualifier on Friday from which the top 16 players will go through to the match play stages. Last year’s Champion, Becky Gee of Hindhead Golf Club, will be hoping to defend her title.

LOTTIE WOAD

Surrey’s Lottie Woad, a Freshman at Florida State University and member of Farnham Golf Club, has been named on the first Spring Watch List for the ANNIKA Award. This annual award is for the top US women’s collegiate golfer. Lottie has had a phenomenal start to her US college golf career. Her stroke average is a staggering 69.59.

With unlimited golf included –invitation to golf (starting from e345pp/2 nights) and our Confidential Clinic Conditions for Pro

a world of hospitality

In the countryside south of Lake Garda near Sirmione and Desenzano, stands the Chervò Golf San Vigilio. A course with 27 championship holes and 9-hole executive. To complete the course, a large and long driving range with covered and uncovered slots with the possibility of hosting large groups and clinics.

THE RESORT

Chervò Golf Hotel Spa & Resort San Vigilio (Italy’s Best Golf Hotel for several years at World Golf Awards) is open all the year with 131 rooms divided into rooms and apartments, surrounded by gardens, fountains, ornamental plants and walkways in local stone. Our Aquae Spa (1500 sqm) world is ready to give you dream holidays and moments of true relaxation with different wellness treatments and programs.

COUNTY JUNIORS

ONE TO WATCH

AVA BATES

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

I started playing golf at 7 years old as I would watch my dad teach my older brother on the range which inspired me to swing a golf club and ever since then I have not stopped.

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

My favourite player is Nelly Korda as it is inspiring to watch her play on TV and how she swings the golf club. My dream fourball would be Nelly Korda, Justin Rose and Tyrrell Hatton.

What have been your career highlights so far?

My career highlights so far would be winning the Astor Salver at the Berkshire Golf Club with a score of 5 under for 36 holes. Also becoming a quarter finalist at the R&A British Girls in 2021 at Fulford golf club playing against international players.

How often do you play / practice?

I am religiously working hard at improving my game every single day. I am fortunate enough to be a scholar at Wentworth Golf Club, which the support and the facilities from the club are fantastic in helping me improve my golf.

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

It has been a challenge trying to balance golf with education but I have found sticking to a routine has helped me manage my time so that I can stay focused on my goals.

PLAYER PROFILE

Name: Ava Bates Age: 17 Club: Wentworth Handicap: +3.0 Competition wins/titles/ placements:

c Astor Salver winner, with a score of -5 for 36 holes

c Faldo series winner in wales, qualifying for the grand final in Abu Dhabi with a score of -5 for 54 holes

c Top 5 finish out of a field international players at the U18 R&A British Girls, to become a quarter finalist.

c Winner of the Wentworth Junior Club Championship, becoming the first girl to ever win it.

c Winner of the Wentworth Ladies Club Championship, matching the course record with a -5 on the last round

c Bernard Gallacher trophy winner

c St Mellion Junior Open winner

c Surrey Ladies Birley trophy winner matchplay competition winner.

c U14 Surrey Champion winner at the Drift Golf Club

c U18 England golf order of merit, finishing 10th place in 2021

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?

Especially during the golf season, I tend to focus on my short-game as I believe that is where you are able to gain shots over other players. I monitor my results through statistics that identify my weaknesses on certain rounds, which is helpful in telling me where I can improve so it does not restrict my outcome.

What are your goals for 2023 and beyond?

My goals for 2023 are to finish top in national tournaments.

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

My advice to young players would be to work hard and stay patient with your golf and you will get rewarded.

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

When I am not playing golf I am usually at the gym or seeing my friends.

Give your game an edge.

NIKON SPORT OPTICS

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Discover how our NEW Nikon COOLSHOT Laser Rangefinders can improve your game at www.nikon.co.uk/golf

CUSTOM FIT GOLF CLUBS The importance of on your game

As the new season approaches, PGA Professional Sam Truman, takes you through the reasons why custom fit golf clubs could change your game for the better and help you achieve your golfing goals.

The benefits of custom fitted golf clubs to the club golfer cannot be underestimated. Coaches are forever coming across golfers who are being held back by poorly fitted golf clubs and clubs that actually are set up or built counter intuitively to the golfers demands.

Once a golfer goes through a thorough custom fitting experience with an established fitting technician

it will often remove years of chopping and changing clubs. Once you understand some key features that your clubs will need it makes the process of updating or changing clubs much easier. Any extreme changes in club profile can be difficult to implement and can often hinder a player’s movement.

The first area to consider and to question is club profiles. Do you have

one club in the bag that always under performs the rest? Do you have an old trusty club that never seems to be able to be replaced?

If the answer is yes to both you need to look into the profiles of those clubs. A profile of a club could be the weight (both head and shaft), shaft profile and flex, length, lie, visual appearance. Does your old trusty have a different profile to the rest of your set? You’ll

be amazed how a simple change in club profile can massively help golfers regain control of their shots.

The second point to think about is reaching out to someone who knows your game well. Too often people will go for custom fitting and they will get fitted for the swing and shot that they produce on that day. This may not be reflective of what they do most of the time. Before you go to a custom fitting session, ask your coach what they would suggest are the most important features to focus on. This may be adjusting length to help strike, adjusting lie angle to affect launch direction and strike or adjusting shaft profile to help the golfer move differently in their swing. Your coach can be a really useful asset to help both you and a fitter.

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.

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

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

HELPFUL TIP

To keep your wedge grooves as fresh as possible, keep a spare practice wedge (this may be an old wedge) to use on the range. Hard range balls will often wear down the grooves of clubs quicker than a softer premium ball.

And finally, new clubs often open up new options of shots you can play. The most common instances for this would be a change in shaft which may help you hit the ball consistently higher or lower. And a fresh set of wedges with clean, new grooves, will help you increase spin around the green.

Get booked into to see a fitting technician now to get your equipment ready for the upcoming season.

For more information on custom fitting at The Surrey Golf Lab based at Reigate Hill Golf Club follow the information below.

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 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

@SamTrumanGolf

E: SamTrumanGolf@gmail.com

2023 Challenge Tour DAVID BOOTE’S

Firstly I hope everyone is having a great golfing start to 2023.

For me The Challenge Tour season started again in one of my favourite countries to visit, South Africa. It truly is a very special place with massive variations in scenery, weather and courses. The partnership between the Challenge Tour and the Sunshine Tour continues to thrive year on year and has been helpful in enabling European players to play in high quality events early in the year when the weather back at home is so cold and unpredictable. It also gives South African players a slight early season home advantage which evens out through the year.

This February we had four events starting at Royal Cape Golf Club, Cape Town. This is one of my best loved courses and quite similar to those in Europe with strong winds coming into play. I felt prepared and ready to go

after all the work I’d put in this winter and managed a solid tournament, finishing tied 28th on 7 under par. The highlight of the week was a chip in on the 72nd hole in front of a loud, large and well hydrated crowd!

The second week was at Fancourt Golf Club George, about a four hour drive east of Cape Town. The Dimension Data Pro am is a slightly different format to normal in which we get paired up with amateur partners, typically who are sponsors of the event or invited guests. It creates some distraction but being at Fancourt and getting to play on the Links Course is truly one of the best experiences of South Africa. Unfortunately, I missed the cut by one this week, but it was some consolation that in missing the cut by a single shot after 3 rounds you know that your game is very close to being competitive.

For the third week we headed

up to the SDC Open in Limpopo which is around two hours north of Johannesburg up in the ‘bush’ or ‘high veld’ region. This year we played at Zebula Golf Club which was a very good layout, accompanied with lots of wildlife around the course. Perhaps the wildlife was too much of a distraction this week as I unfortunately missed the cut. However, it was still an enjoyable week, especially staying in a house on site with a few of my friends who are fellow players on the tour.

Finally for the last week we travelled down to Port Elizabeth for the Nelson Mandela Bay Championship. This was a new city and golf course for these co-sanctioned events and so into the unknown for the European players. HumeWood Golf Club was very linksy in set up and reminded me a lot of home, with the 20/30mph winds all week. I enjoy playing in the wind and I guess not surprisingly I had my best finish out there finishing T16th on 11 under par. The city was excellent with great beaches, restaurants and The Addo Elephant National Park – the third largest national park in South Africa just a 45 minute drive away.

I finished this early tour segment a total of 20 strokes under par for the 13 rounds played, with a stroke average of 70.54. It has placed me 46th on the order of merit (The race to Majorca) which is an improvement on this time last year. I will need to reduce my stroke average too much closer to 70 (or below) this year to achieve the main objective of a top 20 position. It’s a good start though.

I now have two weeks at home preparing for two upcoming events in Bangalore, India. The weather hasn’t been helping so far but hopefully it improves before I fly out East again.

I hope everyone has had a decent winter’s golfing, whether indoors or outdoors, and you are now working on your swings ready for a big summer of golf!

We welcome groups from 12 to 100+ players. Waterlooville Golf Club is one of Hampshire’s friendliest clubs and you are sure to have a great experience, from the warm welcome, to the fantastic championship course right through to the great food after your game.

If you haven’t played it, put it on your bucket list! The friendliness of the welcome, the presentation of the course and the quality of the greens were all outstanding.

Andra, Gloucestershire Team Captain

If you were to get an audio play-back of all your self talk during a round you would probably be shocked at how negative it is. Negative self talk will never help us. In fact, it lowers confidence and puts a negative experience to memory.

So how do we change self talk to build confidence and guide us towards the thinking, feelings and behaviors that are performance enhancing?

First, we have to agree with the following assumptions:

c We will always hit some bad shots in any round of golf

c How those shots make us feel is out of our control

c We have time between how something makes us feel and how we respond to it

Types of self talk

There are 3 types of self talk:

1. negative self talk

2. neutral self talk and

3. positive self talk.

We already discussed there being no benefit at all from negative self talk. Neutral self talk is simple instructions you can give yourself such as ‘pick

THE POWER OF SELF TALK

Most players think that confidence comes solely from past success, but they’re wrong. A huge part of your confidence comes from what you say to yourself about yourself in relation to the challenge in front of you – your ‘self talk’.

By David MacKenzie

your target’, ‘commit to the shot’ or ‘smooth tempo’. Positive self talk, also known as motivational self talk, is giving yourself encouragement by telling yourself things like “you are a great putter”, “you can do it” or “you are great under pressure”.

Decide on better self talk by creating ‘self talk statements’

c Start by thinking of situations that self talk would be helpful i.e., when you are feeling nervous or after a bad shot.

c Write 3 positive and 3 neutral self talk statements. Your positive self talk statements must be credible. That is, if you don’t believe it, it’s not going to work. For each one, write down what gives you the right to say that to yourself (i.e., a real experience or achievement).

c Practice by saying them out loud and see how they make you feel. Experiment with different words and tones (saying something in monotone will have a different effect that saying it with energy).

c Be accountable for your self talk. Score yourself on it out of 10 after each round. How effective was your

use of it? Was it more positive/neutral or negative? Would you change any of your statements?

With more intention for your self talk and more self-awareness, you’ll become better at responding to your feelings at what happens in the round with better self talk, rather than reacting with negative self talk. The result will be better control of your mental and emotional state and improved performance.

David MacKenzie is a mental coach and resides in Washington DC, but is originally from Godalming, Surrey. You can find out more about him and his coaching at www.golfstateofmind.com

I just tell myself positive affirmations on certain tee shots or when I’m feeling nervous, and it calms me down

PGA Tour winner, Max Homa

ON POINT AT THE POINT

The Point is all about inclusivity, making sure that there is something for every member of your group to delight in.

Facilities include; an 18 hole golf course, driving range and practice area; a health club with a gym and studio for classes, indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. Tennis and Padel tennis courts are also on tap.

The clubhouse also features its own restaurant and bar which serve delicious food using locally sourced produce with views out to sea. With all this choice, boredom simply doesn’t exist here.

The course itself has benefitted from considerable investment in the past decade and is now regarded as one of the finest coastal parkland courses on the Cornish peninsula and is just a mile away from the Top 100 Church Course at St Enodoc. The latest investment in the course at The Point will see a stateof-the-art irrigation system installed during 2023 further enhancing the presentation of the course.

This year also sees the addition of 17 modular eco-cabins at The Point within an exclusive, five-acre onsite retreat. In a collaboration with Koto Design, the new cabins draw inspiration from Scandinavian design and culture and embody the four pillars of architecture, nature, design, and wellness. With landscaping created in partnership with Chelsea awardwinning garden designer Darren Hawkes. The cabins, which are built

What do you imagine when you consider your dream Cornish escape? Breath-taking walks along glittering Cornish coastlines? Invigorating outdoor activities like tennis, padel tennis, swimming, or golf? A cosy bolthole to call home for the time being? With all of this on offer and more, The Point is a place famed for being the perfect base from which to explore all that North Cornwall has to offer.

almost entirely of sustainably sourced timbers, are clad in British blackened larch with green roofs, meaning they sit effortlessly into this coastal site.

YOUR FIRST CHOICE FOR ACCOMMODATION IN NORTH CORNWALL

When it comes to accommodation, you are undoubtedly spoilt for choice. While there is a collection of beautiful self-catering apartments ready to welcome you on site, ranging from dog-friendly bolt holes with room for the whole family, or more intimate

spaces made for two, The Point Holidays’ collection of self-catering cottages is more expansive than ever. With a rapidly expanding collection of homes in Rock, Polzeath and Daymer Bay, you can make your Cornish holiday exactly what you want it to be. The Points’ team have years of experience in the local area so you can be sure you’re in good hands, whether you are looking for your ideal golf break or an activity filled family getaway. The Point and their Holidays wing strive to provide outstanding customer service. With a team that all live and work in North Cornwall with a shared passion to provide unforgettable experiences for their guests The Point Holidays should be regarded as the first choice for accommodation in North Cornwall.

Tel: 01208 863000

Web: www.thepointholidays.co.uk / www.thepointatpolzeath.co.uk

Email: golf@thepointatpolzeath.co.uk/ stay@thepointholidays.co.uk

SENSATIONAL SUFFOLK

Discover the delights of one of James Braids finest courses. 27 holes across two courses of heathland haven with the Purdis 18 hole course being a hidden gem in Suffolk, all at a club that provides a warm welcome to both members and visitors.

27 holes of glorious heathland golf, nestled on Bromswell Heath in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The perfect venue to experience a fantastic day of golf.

A links course offering 27 holes – the 18 hole Main Course and a 9 hole Rivers Course with Fast-draining, sandy soil ensuring it plays well throughout the year

27 holes of seaside links golf awaits! Enjoy one of only 246 true links in the world on our 18 hole Martello course, or a quick 9 holes on our Kingsfleet course. Both offering stunning views all year round.

MALONE GOLF CLUB

Stunning parkland golf course located just 5 miles from Belfast city centre

• Considered by many to be the best ‘old style’ parkland course in Northern Ireland

• Host venue of the Vagliano Trophies in 2015 and many other championships over the years

In any 19th hole discussion attempting to determine the accolade of a supreme inland course in Ireland, it is perfectly understandable that there will be a case for the claims of Malone Golf Club. Not much argument is really required for, truth to tell, the gently rolling summertime tapestry of mature wood, restful lake and blaze of flowers sets it quite apart.

• 27 hole facility with newly installed warm up range

• Mature 330 acre estate, with a magnificent 180 year old main clubhouse building

We are the largest accommodation provider in the region with 70 bedrooms across 23 properties. Whether you are walking, fishing, golfing or just taking in the breathtaking scenery, we are able to offer you 5* accommodation to suit small or large parties, with our houses ranging from a 1 bedroom apartment to a 6 bedroom town house.

Our reputation and high standards are known worldwide although, not quite as famous as the stunning Royal Dornoch Golf Course, ranked 4th in the world and No.2 in Scotland.

Pictured right: View from this house

Clubhouse and 1st Tee at Royal Dornoch

Bar and catering facilities are available for everyone, whether you’re on a society corporate day or just a friendly fourball with friends. The club has a well stocked professional shop with buggies, electric and pull trollies plus club hire. All in all, you won’t be disappointed!

You’ll really enjoy the WOW factor of BBGC and we look forward to hosting you.

01628 661 448 Web: www.bbgc.co.uk

Set in the tranquil Surrey countryside, located between Woking & Guildford, Sutton Green Golf Club is one of Surrey’s premier golf clubs…

PLAY JOIN ENJOY LEARN SHOP

Excellent green fees for visitors

Flexible pay-as-you-play Black Card Membership

A perfect venue for your next golf day

Improve your golf with our pro team

All your golf wear and equipment needs covered

To make an enquiry about membership or golf days call 01483 747898 or email reception@suttongreengc.co.uk

Book and find more information at suttongreengc.co.uk

Burnham Beeches is a well-wooded traditional parkland course located in the Thames Valley, providing one of the best tests of golf within easy reach of central London.

Burnham Beeches Golf Club, Green Lane, Burnham, Bucks SL1 8EG Tel.

Celebrating 30 years of golf! We’re excited to welcome new and returning guests to our golf club in the heart of the beautiful Cornish countryside. Give us a call and book direct to secure your relaxing golf getaway for 2023!

1993-2023

A BAG FOR EVERY GOLFER

The versatile new bag range offers four new models in striking featurepacked designs.

Wilson Golf has advanced its bag offering for 2023 with the introduction of the new EXO DRY cart and EXO LITE stand bags, plus ILOCK and ILOCK DRY cart bags to cater for the needs of every golfer throughout the season.

The full bag range features nine different styles in 31 different colour options. RRP from £110-£505

www.wilson.com

WHAT’S HOT 4

ELEGANTLY STYLISH PLAYABILITY & COMFORT

Sunset Bay putter grips are pure golfing palm-candy, they look great and are made to tour specification in a mid-size pistol style using pure TPE wrapped in 1.8 mm of the finest PU leather with a breath taking honeycomb pattern dimple.

Building on the success of recent collections, Oscar Jacobson is introducing a number of new garments and colourways for the new golf season.

The Wellington, available in 3 colours including a new Electric blue and carries the logo on the sleeve, leaving the chest unbranded in line with current trends. RRP £59.99

The Gilman, delivers a subtle, mottled effect unique to Oscar Jacobson. The white body of the polo carries a horizontal heatsealed stripe and has contrast colouring to the front and back yolk. RRP £69.99

www.oscarjacobsongolf.co.uk

Style and quality together. All-weather playability with incredible comfort ensuring the finest performance and head turning style guaranteed.

Core Size: 15mm | Diameter (at cap) – 33.6mm | Weight – 102g | Length –262mm.

RRP £29.95

www.sunsetbaygolf.co.uk

TECHNOLOGY AND PERFORMANCE

PING adds three new models to PLD Milled putter line.

PING has expanded its precision-milled putter series with the addition of three new PLD Milled models. The PLD Milled Anser D, Oslo 4 and Anser 2 (matte black) are available at PING authorised retailers committed to selling premium, custom-fit putters. The three new PLD Milled models join four tour-validated models introduced last year, which represent a combination of standard-setting favourites like the Anser and newer, tour-inspired models like the DS72, the choice of multipletime winner Viktor Hovland. The Anser D and Oslo 4 are entirely new, high-MOI designs, developed in collaboration with PING pros Bubba Watson and Tyrrell Hatton, respectively. The new Anser 2 is distinguished by its matte-black finish and retains all the technology and performance of the satin-finish version introduced last year.

RRP: £399

www.ping.com

SMART IN EVERY WAY

Motocaddy expands S-Series with new touchscreen GPS model featuring 1-step folding & cable free battery.

Motocaddy, the world’s biggestselling electric trolley brand, has introduced an all-new S5 GPS electric trolley and matching S5 GPS DHC model, as the first ‘Smart Cart’ in the brand’s modern, state-of-the-art S-Series range. The new trolleys expand the Motocaddy GPS range to eight game-changing models across its award-winning S-Series and M-Series categories, all featuring a fully integrated and super-fast GPS system across more than 40,000 golf courses worldwide.

The new S5 GPS electric trolley is available now in Graphite/Blue at the following RRP’s: Standard Lithium battery £999.99. Extended Lithium battery £1049.99

www.motocaddy.com

NEW SEASON, NEW LOOK

Global golf footwear brand, ECCO® GOLF, has combined next-generation zonal support with pioneering midsole technology and head-turning style in the freshlyupdated ECCO S-THREE collection.

The hugely successful shoe has undergone a transition as part of the SS23 collection, with the model benefitting from an innovative redesign. This includes an updated upper which provides premium comfort in a sleek aesthetic. Additionally, the S-THREE now

features an updated tongue that is thinner, lighter, and more fitted to the wearer’s foot.

S-THREE will be available in a host of different options for SS23, and features a total of 13 colourways across the men’s and women’s collections. Additionally, both the men’s and women’s ranges will feature the BOA® Fit lacing system, which provides the wearer with hassle free lacing at the tips of their fingers.

golf.ecco.com

IMPORTANT AND VERY EXCITING GOLF GLOVE NEWS!

The Coppertech Golf Glove is a fantastic new glove with many unique and amazing qualities that are thrilling all golfers who try them. Their feedback indicates it is likely to change the world of the golf glove forever!

Many golfers when asked why they are wearing a glove that has stretched, is shiny and has deteriorated significantly, especially if they had used it in the rain, are unable to explain why.

Golfers who are benefitting from the new technology of the Coppertech Plus Glove however can and are happy to explain the importance of its many

Well known PGA professional and Chairman of the European Senior Tour, David J Russell, raves about the glove and confirms that is:

unique and amazing qualities which include:

BETTER, EXTRA GRIP

The non-slip patented spider weave technology enables golfers to maintain a better grip of the club throughout their swing. This extra grip means they can grip the club more softly with less tension and so provides them with more feel and control it also improves slip resistance even in wet conditions.

EXCELLENT DURABILITY

The non-slip technology also reduces wear and gives the gloves greater durability and the feedback indicates that they can last up to three longer than leather gloves!

FORM FIT COMFORT

playing level.

Each glove is made with form flex technology designed with a compression fit so that one size fits almost all although extra small and extra large gloves are available for those with unusually small or large hands. The form fit ensures that the gloves create and then maintain their initial size throughout and unlike leather gloves do not stretch. This

maintains their quality makes them long-lasting and very cost-effective.

COPPER-INFUSED TECHNOLOGY

A medical study conducted by Copper Tech confirms that the copper-infused technology greatly helps and soothes hand aches and pains.

VALUE FOR MONEY

The retail price, £25 (with free shipping), is in-line with other premium gloves. This means they provide great value for money considering how long the gloves last and all its other amazing and innovative qualities that help golfers improve their game.

To find out more, why not visit coppertechgolf.com who are currently offering an introductory offer of:

Golf glove technology has hardly changed over the years, but now finally it has, and the result is amazing and game-changing!

A truly amazing glove that really is a game-changer which can help send golfers to a higher

50p + VAT from the sale of each glove will be donated to Prostate Cancer UK*

*(registered charity in England and Wales 1005541 and in Scotland SC039332) and a limited company (Company number 02653887)

Rome and reflection inspires Chervò’s SpringSummer 23 collection

Collection has found inspiration. Reflecting upon company archives proved to be the driving force with many pieces adopting the boldness of knockout pink and electric blue.

Over the last 30 years, Chervò has been at the forefront of Italy’s quest to be the best provider of high-quality golf apparel. In that time, the brand has released a range of high-performance items that have been worn on golf courses across the planet.

It is from these past collections that Chervò’s Spring-Summer 2023

The favourite butterfly pattern in the women’s line, and the all-over diamond print on the men’s line also both featuring heavily in the collection – a throwback to the spirit of the past.

This spirit of looking back and revamping the past has also driven Chervò to Rome’s iconic and glamorous style for further inspiration – a fitting choice given the city will be at the centre of the golfing world this autumn when it hosts the Ryder Cup, an event the company is an official supplier for.

Gladiator-inspired prints on the men’s collection of polo shirts see tigers and Roman shield patterns feature allover these statement pieces.

Earthier tones such as green, light blue and beige find their relevant space in the collection as well, to guarantee a sense of relaxed sportiveness that

brings the core concept of Chich & Tech to its peak.

But the Spring-Summer 2023 Collection is not the only new collection Chervò is releasing over the upcoming weeks.

Chervò’s 2023 Resort Collection has everything you will need for visiting the most exclusive golf courses and clubs. The collection is designed for anyone heading on a golf holiday over the coming months.

The earthy shades of Italy’s lush Mediterranean landscape are combined with bold nuances that merge the lively sportiveness of smart athleisure with the panache of worldly travelling. A journey through the endless combinations, this palette is ideal for sleek golfers and their desire to shine beyond the game.

Both collections have also been made to enhance sports performance thanks to the high-tech fabrics and innovative materials incorporated into the garments. Dry-matic fabrics and SunBlock technologies will keep you cool in the summer sun, while the Wind-Lock and CH THERMO LIGHT fabric will help keep you warm through the colder spring months.

For more information on all Chervò’s latest products, visit www.chervo.com

Nowhere does premium clothing better than Italy. For decades, the country has set the standard for quality design and fashion – and in the world of golf it is no different.

A new face design leads to increased flexing for faster ball speeds that generate accurate tee shots from three custom-fit models: G430 MAX, SFT and LST.

A lower CG with stronger, custom-engineered lofts and a thinner face deliver more ball speed in our longest iron ever.

GOFURTHER.

FASTER.

Relying on new innovations and proven technologies in the new G430 family, distance is way up, forgiveness remains unequalled, and the sound is music to your scorecard – leading to lower scores and a lot more enjoyment on the course.