ISSUE 07
SUMMER 2016
SURREY GOLF T H E
M A G A Z I N E
F O R
S U R R E Y
COUNTY NEWS
C O U N T Y
G O L F E R S
SPOTLIGHT
West Byfleet Golf Club
News and events from around the county
GOLF ACADEMY
Driver problems? “Impact is key” says Steve Blacklee
WIN!
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GOLF BREAKS Discover England’s Golf Coast, the rugged beauty of Scotland,thrilling golf in the West of Ireland or play the Caribbean’s most spectacular courses
REVIEWS Banstead Downs The Vale Resort, Wales Gloria Golf Resort, Turkey
PLUS...
INTERVIEW WITH STEPHEN PLANE
RAITT WINS PINEHURST
TONY WEST – MIURA’S CLUB REVIEW
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PUBLISHED BY: Abstract Media Services Ltd Tel: 01883 370308
It’s a busy Summer in the sporting arena. Dustin Johnson has won The US Open, Wimbledon is in full force, we are still in the Euros and in less than two weeks it’s the big one – The British Open. Closer to home – Big congratulations to David Corben who beat Nick Buckland to become the 2016 Amateur Champion. David will now go to the National Championship representing Surrey. The juniors are out in force this season – last year Surrey won the U14 and U16 Leagues and as we go to press, we are top of all three leagues – U14, U16 and U18, a great position for Surrey and really shows the strength and depth of talent we have. Good luck to all in the remaining matches. Inside this issue – Driver problems? Steve Blacklee looks at the different results obtained from your strike. Stephen Plane, Pro at Banstead Downs lets us know what’s in his bag, plus all the latest news from across the county. If you are looking for something a little further afield, there’s something for everyone with news and reviews from England’s Golf Coast to the Dominican Republic. Don’t miss your chance to win a new outfit from Oscar Jacobson, a Mizuno wedge, a 4-ball at Remedy Oak, a Harry Colt break at Stoke Park or a weekend in Ireland at The Diamond Coast Hotel.
Editorial: Jo Habgood E: jo.habgood@abstractmediaservices.com Advertising: Justin King E: justin.king@abstractmediaservices.com Design: Mandy Boosey E: mandy.boosey@btinternet.com SURREY COUNTY GOLF CONTACTS Tel: 01483 755 788 Fax: 01483 751 771 County Secretary: John A Davies Office Manager and all Knockout results: Jane Duhart Junior U18 Manager: Alan Page Junior U16-U12 Manager: Steve McNeill RookieTour Manager: Bob Lacey Head County Coach: John Noble COUNTY OFFICERS County Secretary: John Davies Treasurer: Stewart Simpson
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President: Steve Mostyn EG S.E. Group: Stuart King
Jo Habgood Editor
EG voting member: Steve Parrish TEAM CAPTAINS/MANAGERS County Captain: David Corben Seniors Manager: Michael Kfouri SURREY LADIES COUNTY GOLF ASSOCIATION
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We want to hear from you! Send us your news big or small, individual or clubs.
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Tel: 01483 751622 President: Rosemary Wallis Ladies Secretary: Amanda Harris Ladies Captain Alison Taylor
Email editor@surreygolfmag.com NEXT ISSUE – October 1st SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
ABSTRACT MEDIA SERVICES LIMITED
Surrey Golf
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CONTENTS
CONTENTS NEWS 6 Guildford Alliance – 2015/2016 season Grand finale for Rice at Farnham 8 Richmond Golf Club
purchases freehold for a lasting future 10 Farleigh Golf Club, Surrey
posts most successful year in its history 12 Raitt wins Pinehurst
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JUNIOR NEWS 14 RookieTour 2016 16 Reigate Heath’s inaugural
SENIOR NEWS
REVIEW by Surrey
Golf
20 Seniors Championship
Southern Schools Invitational is massive success
Woodcote Park
SURREY LADIES
Surrey Seniors beat The Jersey Boys
18 County Championship 22-24 April held at Hankley Common GC
Bill Bryce receives Micklem Award for outstanding contribution
Annabell finishes runner up in Scottish U18 Girls Championship
SPOTLIGHT
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22 West Byfleet Golf Club – a
First girl winner of the Laddie Lucas Spoon
quality, friendly course
GOLF ACADEMY 24 Driver problems? “Impact is
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key” says Steve Blacklee
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INTERVIEW
NEWS EXTRA
28 Stephen Plane tell us what’s
30 Stoke Park one of the finest
in his bag
parkland courses in the country SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
CONTENTS
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REVIEWS 7 Banstead Downs – a fine
Downland course 44 The Vales Resort – 650
acres of beautiful Welsh countryside 54 Gloria Golf Resort – the
42 Ireland’s West – golf as it
should be 46 Monarch now providing
golfers with a 20kg golf bag allowance 48 The Dominican Republic has
it all for golf visitors
largest golf resort in Turkey
PRODUCTS
60 Miura MB-001 – a new way
56 HIRZL launches latest high
to discover perfection
performance golf glove
GOLF BREAKS
Ultee – mighty two-piece tees
32 England’s Golf Coast is
home to some of the finest courses in Britain
The new EZONE XPG range of clubs from Yonex
course reopen following a multimillion pound refurbishment
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
Compact & easy-to-use Laser Rangefinder from GolfBuddy
COMPETITIONS Your chance to win... 64 An outfit from Oscar
38 Turnberry Hotel and the Ailsa
40 Princes Golf Club becomes GEO certified
64
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Jacobson; a Harry Colt break at Stoke Park; a new Mizuno S5 Wedge; 2 night golf break in Ireland – including flights and a 4-Ball at Remedy Oak 5
SURREY NEWS
GUILDFORD ALLIANCE – 2015/2016 SEASON
Merit winner David Copsey with Alliance Captain, Graig Trower
Championship winner Scott Graham with Alliance Captain, Graig Trower
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Leading amateur Phil Goodwin with Alliance Captain, Graig Trower
he Guildford Alliance (a Surrey based Pro-am series, played over the winter months) has just completed another highly successful season, comprising of 11 Golf events played between October 2015 and April 2016, at some of the truly great Golf courses in the Guildford area – Hankley Common, The Berkshire, Worplesdon, RAC, West Hill, Woking, St Georges Hill, Liphook and Walton Heath. The season long Professional order of Merit was won by David Copsey (Poult Wood Golf Club) with Kevin O’Connell (Purley Downs Golf Club) in 2nd place and Bob Cameron (Sundridge Park
Golf Club) in 3rd. The end of season Championship held over 36 holes at Walton Heath was won by Scott Graham (Purley Downs Golf Club) with a very impressive 2 under par total, in very windy conditions. Leading Amateur was Phil Goodwin (Liphook Golf Club) who despite playing off a Handicap of 6 only dropped 5 shots all day to par. Well done to all! If you are interested in playing in the Guildford Alliance in the 2016/2017 season, please email David davidgalliance@hotmail.com or david@gfordalliance
GRAND FINALE FOR RICE AT FARNHAM The man from Purley Downs shoots fantastic 65 to win the A&T Betterball Pro-Am
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o doubt inspired by the final round performance of the new Masters champion, Purley Downs’ Matt Rice delivered a sensational seven-under-par 65 around Farnham to run away with the final event in the Titleist & FootJoy PGA South Winter Series 2015-16: the Titleist & FootJoy Assistants and Trainees Betterball Pro-Am. In near-perfect April conditions, Rice finished four ahead of his nearest rivals, Ben Flint (Broke Hill) and Alex
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Lodge (Calcot Park), both of whom shot three-under-par rounds of 69. Starting on the 10th, Rice opened with birdies on the 10th and 11th. His third birdie on the 14th was offset by a dropped shot on the 15th, but his eagle on the 18th took him to fourunder. Another birdie bogey followed at the first and second, but three more birdies at the fourth, seventh and eighth meant he finished way out in front. Rice’s win earned him the winner’s cheque for £444.
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
REVIEW
BANSTEAD DOWNS – A FINE DOWNLAND COURSE Banstead Downs Golf Club • A James Braid design • 6581 Yards • Par 71 but fair. The natural topography provides ideal golfing terrain as nature intended, rarely giving a flat stance, and challenging golfers of every level to use their full repertoire of shots. Notable Holes
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had the pleasure of playing this fine track on a breezy day at the end of April and combining that with the large undulating greens and run off areas around the putting surfaces, it felt like I was playing an inland links. Its chalk base allows for excellent drainage helping to ensure the course remains open and playable on fine surfaces all year round. With four sets of tees, golfers of all abilities will find the course challenging
The 1st – A testing par 5 with bunkers potentially in play from the tee shot. It has a large green with subtle breaks (for me not reachable in 2 shots) and a good defence that requires a well placed approach shot in regulation or you will be in 3 putt territory. The 2nd – A dogleg left par 4 with approach shots playing to a blind green that sits in a bowl. The 5th – At 287 yards off the white tees, it is the 1st of the drivable par fours which is well protected by
bunkering, bush and gorse! Stray offline and you will be in trouble! I like unusual features on golf courses and this is evident on the 14th (par 5, 577yards of the whites). After the blind tee shot, the 2nd shot must avoid 3 large bunkers on the right of the fairway, leaving you a Hawthorne tree in front of the green that needs negotiating! The 17th (a short par 3) is fantastic with the green sloping from back to front and well protected by bunkers. Banstead Downs is one of the UK’s finest downland courses, make sure you check it out…
Do YOU want more from your golf club and course? Were you fed up not being able to play this past winter following all the wet weather? At Banstead Downs the course is playable 365 days of the year due to it being on fast draining chalk. We welcome applications from existing golfers new to the area and existing club golfers looking for a new challenge. Reduced subscriptions to golfers under the age of 35 and our Junior membership is only £100.
The grass is GREENER at Banstead Downs
To find out more and to arrange a discounted taster round of golf, please phone 0208 642 2284 or email rebecca@bansteaddowns.co.uk quoting SGM3
www.bansteaddowns.co.uk
SURREY NEWS
THE RICHMOND GOLF CLUB PURCHASES FREEHOLD FOR A LASTING FUTURE
The Richmond Golf Club has purchased the freehold of its course and clubhouse from The Crown Estate, guaranteeing current and future members a lasting future at its stunning parkland home.
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n a move described by the prestigious London club as “the most significant development in its 125-year history”, the club has completed a deal to buy its 300-year-old early Georgian clubhouse, Sudbrook Mansion, and the surrounding land on which the golf course stands, Sudbrook Park. An overwhelming majority of members voted in favour of buying the freehold when the club first met to discuss the possible purchase at an Extraordinary General Meeting in June last year. Around 300 members voluntarily subscribed to a loan note scheme to finance the purchase, which was finalised almost 125 years to the day
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after golf was first played at Sudbrook Park back in April 1891. David Hill, the chair of The Richmond Golf Club at the time of the deal in March, said: “This is undoubtedly the most significant development in our 125year history. “At a time when some other clubs are closing, selling land or changing the rights of their members, we are delighted that the future of the club is now even more safe and secure and our members will be able to play golf here for as long as they wish to do so. “What is most pleasing is the way that it has all been done. We raised the money to finance the purchase, not from institutions, but from as wide a base of the club’s members as possible. Moreover, under the new arrangements, all members will continue to hold an equal stake, regardless of their contribution to the financing of the acquisition. “We have been careful to ensure that the changes needed to support the purchase will maintain the unique character and ethos of the club that are so cherished by our members. Potential
new members should not be put off they will be welcome to, but will not be expected or compelled to, participate in the loan note scheme. “All members should all be very proud of what we have achieved together.” The completion of the freehold purchase is perfect timing for the club as Richmond’s 125th anniversary celebrations move into full gear over the coming months with a series of events and golf days being staged. For further information on The Richmond Golf Club, please visit www.therichmondgolfclub.com
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
2016 CORPORATE/SOCIETY GOLF PACKAGES AT
Chipstead Golf Club THE WESTWOOD • • • •
Coffee & Bacon Roll • 18 holes of golf Saturday & Sunday £29.50 Monday, Wednesday & Friday £24.50 Thursday £19.50
THE ROSE • • • • •
Coffee & Bacon Roll • 18 holes of golf Two-course dinner Saturday & Sunday £42.50 Monday, Wednesday & Friday £37.50 Thursday £32.50
THE FULL MONTY • • • • • •
Coffee & Bacon Roll • Light lunch Two-course evening meal 27 holes of golf Saturday & Sunday £49.50 Monday, Wednesday & Friday £44.50 Thursday £39.50
All packages can be tailor made to suit your groups specific needs. For further information on our corporate packages, please call: Gary or Sue on 01737 555781 or email office@chipsteadgolf.co.uk
• Custom build your own package • Societies welcome 7-days-a-week • Buggies available to hire Although living in Kent, our ‘bi-annual’ golf society has moved to Bletchingley for the past couple of years and will continue to remain there for the foreseeable future. My group has found the organisation, venue, course (in all weathers) and food all first rate and far superior to other courses we have used. The course has numerous signature holes which just makes for a great day’s golf. Bletchingley is now my personal course of choice and I would recommend it to anyone who has yet to try it out... Neil Hardstone, Knockholt Golf Society
The PERFECT destination for
MEMBERS away days
For more information please contact Steven Cookson, General Manager: t: 01883 744848, e: generalmanager@ bletchingleygolf.co.uk
www.bletchingleygolf.co.uk
SURREY NEWS
DRIVING SUCCESS ON AND OFF THE COURSE
Farleigh Golf Club in Surrey posts most successful year in its history
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ith many in the industry bemoaning the decline of golf, Farleigh Golf Club in Surrey has bucked the trend and posted its most successful financial results in its 19 year history. Previously known as Farleigh Court, the club was purchased by the Hayton family in 2010, who invested £6 million in the club, with it joining The Foxhills Collection. A change of senior management followed in 2014, with General Manager Russell Stebbings leading the Club to its first ever profit in 2015/16. The club’s strengths have been both on and off the course – renowned locally for its Sunday carvery, the stylish modern clubhouse recently welcomed Andy Castle (aka ‘The Inked Chef’) to head up its Nineteen restaurant, providing restaurant quality menus to members and visitors. Weddings, meetings and events are also popular at the picturesque venue, but the golf remains the focal point for this burgeoning business.
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“It’s important for clubs to diversify their offering,” says Stebbings. “Private member clubs may always have their place but need to evolve for golf to thrive instead of just survive. Participation rates in Europe for 9 hole and fun golf-based activities prove that flexibility and fresh approaches are needed and we are excited to be helping drive the sport forward.” Tapping into consumer needs, the club launched its Farleigh Friends loyalty programme in July 2015 and has over 1,900 signed up, with a repeat visit rate of 47% to April 2016. In response to feedback from this group, Farleigh launched a flexible membership with pay-and-play credits in May 2016, opening up tiered privileges to members but without the commitment full membership carries. “The Friends programme allows
us to reach the casual golfer,” says Stebbings. “Not everyone wants to commit to a year-long membership but everyone deserves to be valued and belong.” Farleigh views the future of golf clubs in a similar way to airlines. “Our Friends are flying in economy – you get from A to B with some nice refreshments and a couple of movies. Our new Flexi Membership is like premium economy – you have a bit more flexibility and perks. But behind the curtain is the best experience; full members fly first class with access to members’ major events, social events and partner discounts. “Farleigh is a club for all,” finishes Stebbings. “Regardless of your age, expertise, gender or dress sense, we just want people to pick up a golf club and have some fun.”
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
aft re-o C er pe e ma nin leb jor g o rat bu f th ing nk e C th er o e ref lt C urb o ish urse me nt!
The Ultimate Golf and Country Club... Enjoy all the benefits of a friendly, welcoming and buzzing Golf Club with the added magic of Stoke Park luxury! UK Family owned Stoke Park aims to exceed your expectations and provide world-class British service and facilities. 7 Day Golf Membership - ÂŁ3,500 For more information or to join, please call the membership team on 01753 71 71 79 or by email membership@stokepark.com Stoke Park, Park Road, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire SL2 4PG 35 minutes from London, Ascot, Sunningdale,Windsor and Virginia Water and only 7 miles from Heathrow Airport.
www.stokepark.com
SURREY NEWS
RAITT WINS PINEHURST AFTER THE ULTIMATE GOLFING ROAD TRIP The 2016 Pinehurst Classic Pro-Am, 5th – 10th April 2016
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ithout doubt Pinehurst is heaven for discerning golfers with over 100 years of golfing history, having staged many famous tournaments including US Amateur Championships, PGA Championships, US Open Championships along with The 1951 Ryder Cup. April is prime time to visit Pinehurst with the azaleas in full bloom, and the golf courses in excellent condition. Many of the competitors were able to enjoy the exciting conclusion to The Masters in nearby Augusta before travelling up to Pinehurst. This is a regular feature of Pro-Am Tour events which are often staged at the best times to visit ‘Major’ tournaments or PGA Tour events. In the opening round Pro-Am Tour regular and South Region No.1 James Ablett made an excellent start with 1 under par (71) on the Pinehurst No.4 Course, matched by East Herts Golf Club’s Daniel Field. Just one shot behind was St Georges Hill
Winning Pinehurst team (left to right) Andy Raitt, Andrew Bernard, Richard Beach and Andrew Flatters
professional Andy Raitt who possibly had the best warm-up ever for a ProAm Tour event! Raitt and his team opted to have the ultimate golfing road trip prior to Pinehurst: starting in Hilton Head Island where they played the PGA Tour venue at Harbour Town and the exclusive Haig Point Club on the neighboring Daufuskie Island. They
Winning Professional Andy Raitt at the Prize giving Dinner
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then travelled to Kiawah Island where they played The Ocean Course, before moving to Augusta to watch The Masters! No wonder Raitt would play inspired golf over the final two rounds at Pinehurst to secure a three shot victory over Ablett and Field. In the team event the lead changed hands between Raitt and Ablett’s teams but it would be Andy Raitt’s team of Andrew Bernard, Richard Beach and Andrew Flatters who would ultimately secure a four shot victory. The Pinehurst Classic Pro-Am is just one of The American Golf Holiday’s Pro-Am Tour events. Other events include The Sawgrass Classic, The Arizona Classic, The California Classic, The Scottsdale Classic, The Las Vegas Classic, and The Pro-Am Tour at Pebble Beach, along with tailor-made golf packages including admission to The US Masters at Augusta and The Ryder Cup. Information on The Pro-Am Tour can be obtained from The American Golf Holiday, 023 8046 5885 or www.pro-amtour.com
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
WEST BYFLEET GOLF CLUB
West Byfleet is a warm and friendly traditional members club established in 1906 and located only 3 miles from Woking. We are very proud to offer one of the best freedraining courses in the Surrey Heathland area.
MEMBERSHIP VACANCIES NOW AVAILABLE
For details on membership please contact Jill Brine:
West Byfleet Golf Club has a very active membership. Our men’s, ladies’, senior and junior sections offer a full competition schedule for players of all standards.
West Byfleet Golf Club, Sheerwater Road, West Byfleet, Nr. Woking KT14 6AA
We also run a number of friendly events and a varied social calendar.
T: 01932 343433 E: membership@wbgc.couk
www.wbgc.co.uk
JUNIOR NEWS
ROOKIETOUR 2016
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he Surrey Golf RookieTour has had a great start to 2016 with the first four events all enjoying good weather and great golf. So far they have visited West Byfleet, Puttenham, Merrist Wood and Shirley Park and celebrated 19 different winners in the five competitions that are played (U14 Boys Scratch and Handicap, Girls Handicap, U12 Boys Scratch and
Handicap). 2016 promises to be a fantastically competitive year. Average entry for each of the events so far is 95 players. Also off to a good were the YIGS who had their first competition of 2016 at Addington Court. 40 players entered and a gloriously sunny day was enjoyed by all the competitors and their parents.
The remaining schedule and availability for the 2016 RookieTour is as follows: Hoebridge 2
Sunday 10th July
Cuddington
Monday 25th July – full
Wildwood
Monday 1st August
Windlesham
Monday 15th August
Farnham Thursday 25th August – full This year’s Race To The Stars finale will be held at Royal Wimbledon on 2nd October. The remaining schedule and availability for the 2016 YIGs RookieTour is as follows: Hoebridge 2
Sunday 10th July – full
Addington Court Sunday 4th September
Congratulations to this seasons winners to date: West Byfleet
Puttenham Court YIGS
U14 Boys Scratch
Joe Wood
U14 Boys Handicap
Merrist Wood
Shirley Park
Shergo Kurdi
Luke Stock
Jack Osborne
Charlie Pirini
Jonathan Moeller-Schwarz
Amir-Ali Safari
Joseph Silcock
U14 Girls Handicap
Sarah Mardani
Abigail Rowlands
Sarah Mardani
Issey Wood-Smith
U12 Boys Scratch
Rio Mercer-Marsden
Hashim Banday
Aidan Millham
Cameron Cridge
U12 Boys Handicap
William Hewett
Leo Vorobyev
Henry Jensen
Monty Holcombe
YIGS
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Addington
James Piper
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
PURLEY DOWNS GOLF CLUB Probably the best greens in Surrey, with a vibrant, sociable club, based around an excellent, challenging golf course
MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS
SOCIETIES WELCOME
• 7- and 5-day • 2 for 1 for couples joining together* • 6-day (Monday to Friday plus • Significantly reduced rates for Saturday and Sunday after 12 noon) under 30s* • ALL with up to 15 months for the • Flexi – for the occasional golfer, price of 12* playing credits to use as you wish * Visit our website for full terms and conditions
Call or check out our website for latest offers!
• 18, 27 and 36 hole bookings accepted • Variety of catering options. • Buggies and electric trollies available for hire EXCELLENT ACADEMY – for the beginner or improver looking to prepare for a playing membership
For more information please visit our website at www.purleydowns.co.uk email info@purleydowns.co.uk or call 0208 657 8347 option 1 (Please quote Surrey Golf)
SURREY NATIONAL GOLF CLUB
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www.surreynational.co.uk • www.matthewstockpga.co.uk
JUNIOR NEWS
REIGATE HEATH’S INAUGURAL SOUTHERN SCHOOLS INVITATIONAL IS MASSIVE SUCCESS
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he first Southern Schools Invitational, played over nine holes at Reigate Heath Golf Club has proved to be a huge success. With the excellent feedback from all the schools and players, everyone’s now looking forward to the next Southern Schools Invitational in 2017. Attracting a full field of 44 competitors representing 22 teams of both boys and girls from 17 schools throughout the south, of which eight were all girls’ teams, the new event fielded some of the most talented young golfers in the UK, some with handicaps as low as +3 and +1. The Southern Schools Invitational
format is unique, being played off scratch and scoring Stableford points over nine holes. In almost perfect weather conditions, Whitgift’s talented duo of Alfie Fox (handicap 1) and his partner Owen Richardson (6) notched up 28 points playing off scratch to win the boy’s event. However, arguably the top performance based on scoring the highest number of points was delivered by Wellington’s girls, Harriet Allsebrook (1) and her partner Izzy Holmes (4). Their total of 43 points off scratch against a special girls’ ‘bogey’ card showed the boys just how well the girls were able to negotiate Reigate
BOYS SCRATCH 2015-2016 KNOCKOUT IS WON BY ANGUS FLANAGAN (ST GEORGES HILL)
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he final of the 2015/2016 Junior Scratch Knock out was contested by the holder Mikey Doble and Angus Flanagan, the venue was Walton Heath New Course. In an enthralling final played by two high quality juniors, Angus got off to a good start with a birdie at the 1st hole but Mikey hit straight back winning the 2nd to bring it back to all square and this is how it stayed for the first nine.
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Angus then took a 2-up lead after winning the 10th & 11th and then went 3-up with four to play. Mikey then got it back to 2-down with two to play by winning the 16th with a fine birdie. Angus closed the game out with a birdie of his own on the 17th to win 3&1. This was without doubt a terrific final and showed off the high quality of Surrey junior golf.
Heath’s tight heathland lies and fast, well protected greens. The girls from Wellington edged out local favourites from Reigate Grammar School Chloe and Charlotte Bader, who with handicaps of 17 together scored 24 points for second place. As it was a schools’ event aiming to encourage all levels of expertise, there was also a Stableford competition for both boys and girls playing off handicap. The girls’ event was won with a score of 57 points by Guildford High School’s girls team of Alice Bathurst and Natasha Morrice, both off handicaps of 20. The boys’ event was won by Ravenscote Junior School’s team of Nathan Woodham off 16 and Sam Wood off 6 with a total of 38 points.
U18 CHAMPIONSHIP AT CLANDON REGIS After a long spell of wet weather the ground was still very soft, but the rain kept off long enough to finish the 36 hole event, even though rounds were taking up to five hours to play. The winner, Tom FarrowSmith scored a wonderful total of 145 (70 + 75), one less than the CSS of the day and was only victorious by one shot from Max O’Hagan on 146 (75 +71). The great scoring in difficult conditions proves that Surrey junior golf is in good shape for the golfing season.
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
SURREY LADIES
COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP 22-24 APRIL HELD AT HANKLEY COMMON GC and Alice proved to be very exciting and full of outstanding golf, with each player having 3 birdies and the match going to the 19th hole, which Alice birdied to win and become Surrey County champion. Alice started playing golf at Cannes Mandelieu in France aged 11, represented France U16 and then took a break from golf to study law. She joined Royal Mid Surrey in 2006 and her last international tournament was the British International Stroke Play in 2012. Congratulations to all the other winners during the championship: Winnie Hill Cup (lowest scratch aggregate score) – Annabell Fuller
Alice Spani-Molella, Royal Mid-Surrey, takes the title in a thrilling finale...
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he Surrey Ladies Championship commenced at Hankley Common GC on Friday 22nd of April with 54 participants playing 36 holes in cold, difficult conditions. Annabell Fuller (Roehampton) age 13, lead the field with a score of 149 gross followed closely in 2nd place by Katie Fewster (Worplesdon) and Alice SpaniMolella (Royal Mid-Surrey), tied on 150. The top 16 players progressed into the quarter finals, scratch matchplay, on
Saturday 23rd of April leaving the semifinals and final to be played on Sunday 24th April.
Bisset Quaich (lowest scratch aggregate by an intermediate) – Niamh O’Connor (Worplesdon)
In the semi-finals, Annabell Fuller beat Amber Chana (Foxhills) 3/2 and Alice Spani-Molella beat Eleanor Lace (Royal Mid Surrey) 1up. There had been the possibility of Annabell playing Eleanor in the final, aged (13 and 12 respectively) which would have been a Surrey Championship record.
Laura Davies trophy (lowest Scratch U18) – Annabell Fuller(Roehampton)
The afternoon final between Annabell
ANNABELL FINISHES RUNNER UP IN SCOTTISH U18 GIRLS CHAMPIONSHIP Prior to the Surrey Championship, Annabell Fuller finished runner up in Scottish U18 Girls Championship at Strathmore Golf Centre having tied for 1st with a gross 213 over 3 rounds, but losing out in the play off to Emily Price. She won the U16 title. Martha Lewis also participated, finishing 15th in the field, congratulations on their performances.
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Bickley Salver (lowest net aggregate score) – Olivia Horsford (Wimbledon Park) who also achieved her first hole in one during her round
Laura Davies prize – Martha Lewis (St George’s Hill) Catherine Benn Award – Martha Lewis (St George’s Hill) County Rose Bowl (lowest pm gross score) Katie Fewster (Worplesdon)
FIRST GIRL WINNER! The 28th year of the Laddie Lucas Spoon saw its first girl winner. Prince’s are delighted to announce that Rafiah Bandhay from Royal Mid Surrey Golf Club won the Laddie Lucas Spoon at Prince’s at the end of March. The Laddie Lucas Spoon is a competition for 8 to 13 year olds played off scratch (with handicap prizes for all age groups) each year on Prince’s links.
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
MITCHAM GOLF CLUB
• 18 hole golf course • Membership available • 12 minutes by rail from London Victoria • Societies and corporate days welcome • Fully stocked Pro Shop ‘Ping specialist’ • Licensed bar and catering • Clubhouse available to hire for weddings, parties and celebration of life
Come and play a piece of history For general enquiries please call Dennise Coker, General Manager 0208 648 4197 For Pro Shop and tee times please call Mark Fluskey, Professional 0208 640 4280
www.mitchamgolfclub.co.uk
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0800 170 1121 enquiries@biarritzgolfing.com www.biarritzgolfingexperience.com
SENIOR NEWS
SENIORS CHAMPIONSHIP WOODCOTE PARK – THURSDAY 12 MAY
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fter some incredibly prolonged heavy rain the day before, the course at Woodcote Park had drained really well and was in amazingly good condition, although playing very long due to some dampness that remained in the fairways. This was shown in the CSS, for the morning it was 76, the afternoon round also 76 but only with reduction! The day of the Championship however was the complete opposite, a beautiful sunny day. After the morning round Hugh Maurice was the leader with a fine 75, closely followed by several
others including the holder and winner of the previous two years, Keith Waters. The afternoon round proved to be a real battle and the final scores gave Martin Hayes the bronze medal and Hugh Maurice the silver. Maurice lost out by just one shot to Keith Waters, who has now won for the third year in a row; a fabulous achievement! By winning the County Championship Keith now goes onto play in the County Champion of Champions Tournament, of which he is the holder. We all wish Keith good luck in retaining his National title.
SURREY SENIORS BEAT THE JERSEY BOYS The annual match between Surrey Seniors and The Jersey Boys (Jersey Seniors) took place over two days at Worplesdon and Hankley Common. This match is never easy and after day one the match was tied. On day two ‘hostilities’ resumed at Hankley, where in mainly glorious conditions, Surrey prevailed 4-1 to grab a rare victory at 6-3.
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oyal Mid Surrey hosted the Seniors in the inaugural match vs RMS Scratch Team. Surrey fielded a strong team and in rather wintry conditions came through with a terrific 5-0 victory over a pretty strong RMS side.
BILL BRYCE RECEIVES MICKLEM AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION in 1963 and 1974, the year in which he became the youngest-ever Captain, apart from HRH The Prince of Wales who was Captain in 1926. He still holds that distinction. He was President of the club from 2003 to 2013 and on his retirement was elected a Life Member. Bill played for Surrey during the 1970s and was county captain for three years, going on to be County President from 1986 to 1988. He represented Surrey on the EGU Council and was Chairman of the Championship and National Coaching committees.
Bill Bryce (right) receives Micklem award from Nigel Evans
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ill Bryce, who has spent over 40 years at the highest levels of golf administration, has received England Golf’s Gerald Micklem Award for his outstanding contribution to the game. He was presented with the award by England Golf’s outgoing President, Nigel Evans. “I feel honoured and delighted to receive this award and to
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join such a distinguished list of former recipients,” said Bill, of Royal MidSurrey Golf Club. “Golf has been a huge part of my life and it has given me so much. A great deal of that is due to my involvement with the English Golf Union and England Golf, for which I am very grateful.” Bill joined Royal Mid-Surrey Golf Club in 1960 and was club champion
GET IN TOUCH... If this all sounds interesting and you want to get involved then please contact us: Billy Mitchell (Surrey Seniors captain) billyrmitchell@gmail.com John Davies (County Secretary) secretary@surreygolf.org Surrey Golf Union www.surreygolf.org UK Seniors Golf Association (UKSGA)
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RECEIVE A FREE 4-BALL* Book your Summer or Winter Golf Day and receive a free round to enjoy with your friends *T&C’s apply
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Hever Castle Golf Club, Hever Road, Edenbridge Kent TN8 7NP
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Now is your chance to play some of the world’s top courses like Celtic Manor, Birkdale or Troon, from as little as £25 an hour. Downshire Golf Complex Easthampstead Park, Wokingham RG40 3DH Tel: 01344 302030 Fax: 01344 301020 Email: downshiregc@bracknell-forest.gov.uk Web: www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/downshiregolf www.facebook.com/downshiregolf
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WEST BYFLEET GOLF CLUB For a quality, friendly and Spotlight
competitive course
Built on free-draining, sandy subsoil and set against a background of woodland and heather, the West Byfleet Golf Club is a hidden gem of a course in the Surrey countryside.
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private members golf club in the heart of the Surrey golf belt, West Byfleet Golf Club boasts a long and successful history. Established in 1906, it is a traditional members club owned by the members and existing for their benefit. The club has in the region of 515 playing adult members and is financially sound with no external borrowing. The course is 6200 yards long, with six par fours well over 400 yards. “West Byfleet Golf Club was formed in 1922, but golf has been played on this land since 1906” says Clint Whittaker, general manager. “The original course was designed by Cuthbert Butchart, a much-respected
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professional of his time, whose projects included Worplesdon, West Hill, Hunstanton, and Royal County Down. “Although the odd hole has been lost and others changed, the majority of the course remains faithful to the original design. It is mostly level with just the odd gradient to add some variation.” Situated on Bagshot sand means that the club has a well-deserved reputation as a fast-draining course and now with the introduction of fairway watering, it ranks among the best courses for fullyear round playability. “Our gently undulating fairways mixed with a challenging course makes us suited for all golfing types. We are proud of our traditional values and
the friendly, sociable nature of our members. We offer several roll-up events throughout the week and at weekends in addition to a full list of competition events. “We take pride in having a friendly atmosphere, excellent facilities and a course of the highest quality. Our function suite caters for 140 and boasts a dance floor and raised stage for various entertainment events.” Clint describes the club’s course as a ‘challenging course with good risk and reward opportunities that any visitor would remember when playing at West Byfleet Golf Club’. The club, though maintaining its traditional image and heritage, is
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
SPOTLIGHT
making sure it is embracing modernity wherever required. “We have implemented a well thought out improvement scheme including refurbishment of the ladies changing rooms, the clubhouse entrance and foyer and we are introducing new sun lounge seating and tables as well as an updated trolley/buggy storage facility”. “We have also just migrated over to Intelligent Golf for all our software requirements. This includes an upgraded, modern website, On-line tee reservation and a new bar till system. On membership we have introduced age based discounts and a new member referral incentive scheme.”
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
The Club has also begun implementing a long-term course improvement plan following the recommendations of top golf architects, Mackenzie & Ebert, whose course improvement projects include six of the 10 Open Championship venues, most recently Turnberry. The club is proud of its contribution to the community through its charity work and over the years members have raised tens of thousands of pounds for local charities. On 29 July, the Club is holding its annual Charity Day in aid of local charity The White Lodge Centre and the British Red Cross which includes a team golf competition followed by a buffet. A number of stalls and raffles are run in the clubhouse and an auction is held during the evening. In 2015, the club raised over £21,000 for charity. For those who enjoy the competitive side of the sport, there are knockout tournaments through the year and numerous weekday and weekend stroke play competitions for members, as well as hosting corporate days and golf societies. But it’s not just about the golf – there is an active social calendar and membership too. Social events include wine tasting, barn dances and an always popular Quiz Night. New members are always welcome, particularly ladies and juniors. The
club recently initiated golf scholarships for junior girls and is delighted that Laura Davies agreed that they be named the Laura Davies Scholarships. Laura started her junior membership at the club before finding fame and fortune in a highly successful professional golfing career. Encouraging junior golf is one of the main objectives of the club and the teaching professionals run a Woodpecker Academy for new, young golfers. Any boy or girl can attend these sessions for a very reasonable fee and start to learn the basics of the golf game and its etiquette. Those that show aptitude for the game are then encouraged to join as junior members. A couple of years ago, West Byfleet gained the GolfMark accreditation which will help it to attract funding from golfing bodies for junior golf. For young adults under the age of 35, the club offers membership as an Intermediate with reduced subscriptions and a heavily discounted entry fee. It is felt that this is helpful to men and women who are at the beginning of their career and/or starting families and likely to be on a tight budget. Tel: 01932 343433 www.wbgc.co.uk
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GOLF ACADEMY
Driver problems?
IMPACT IS KEY By Steve Blacklee
One of the main features to come out of the recent advancement in golf coaching technology is the importance of impact and its various characteristics. Indeed some aspects of respected coaching and professional training manuals in the not so distant past can be torn to pieces as they are now considered incorrect.
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SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
GOLF ACADEMY
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trike location on the clubface and clubface alignment is largely responsible for where the ball goes and how the flight of the ball reacts. That may sound obvious but until recent times the path, or travelling direction of the club head, was considered at least as important as club face alignment and the strike location was rarely mentioned. Here are some examples of strike locations on the clubface that we see most often and the resulting expected flight characteristics: HIGH/TOE STRIKE This will normally start to the right of the target line and a higher than average launch angle but then will draw back with an ‘over spinning’ type flight. It will also have a low spin rate so although the dipping flight may reduce the carry distance slightly, it will run out further. This can produce a deceptively long total distance. LOW/HEEL STRIKE Normally a higher handicap strike location which produces a weak shot that lacks distance. The ball will launch low and left of the target line and fade back. This produces too much spin which reduces distance further in addition to hitting a weaker part of the club face. Normally accompanies and ‘out to in’ swing path. Not an effective impact location.
HIGH/TOE STRIKE
LOW/HEEL STRIKE continued on page 26
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GOLF ACADEMY
LOW/CENTRE STRIKE With the vertical curvature on driver faces a low strike has less loft to use and therefore the ball will launch on a lower trajectory and with low swing speeds this will result in a low flight overall. Higher swing speeds will achieve more spin and therefore the ball will start low and climb into the air and although this can look impressive the results are less so, with the additional back spin sapping distance. LOW/CENTRE STRIKE
HIGH/CENTRE STRIKE This strike will produce a high launch, high overall flight and reduced distance. If the strike becomes a ‘sky’ and marks the club where the top of the face joins the crown of the club this normally indicates the club head is descending too steeply into the ball. OPTIMUM CENTRE STRIKE A centre strike will launch the ball with the true loft of the club and minimise any curvature due to an off centre hit. Match this with a good club path and angle of attack into the ball and this strike will maximise your club head speed with a highly efficient flight.
HIGH/CENTRE STRIKE
HOW DO I KNOW WHERE I’M STRIKING THE BALL? Sometimes it’s difficult to tell the strike location and when we ask a player where in the clubface they have struck the ball, about half the time it’s the complete opposite end to what they think! Here in the studio, we use the GC2 HMT launch monitor system which tells us accurately where the strike location is on every shot, amongst a whole load of other data. For this article I have used face stickers to identify the strike which also serve the purpose to get this information. Another tip is a certain foot spray, sprayed onto the clubface will show the strike location and this can then easily be wiped off with a damp cloth. A simple internet search will detail this. At least once you have the information of the strike pattern of your shots, it gives you a starting point to improve the efficiency of your strike.
OPTIMUM CENTRE
GC2 HMT INFORMATION The GC2 HMT data provides a fantastic insight to the impact conditions that is simply not possible to know without a good quality launch monitor.
READERS DISCOUNT If you would like a lesson with Steve Blacklee using the GC2 HMT go to www.thegolfstudio.info and enter discount code: surreygolfmag10 at the checkout for a 10% discount*! * new customers only
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10% DISCOUN
T*
GC2 HMT INFORMATION Steve Blacklee operates his own golf academy at The Golf Studio in Lower Kingswood, Surrey. For coaching enquiries contact Steve on 01737 833444 or email contact@thegolfstudio.info
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LITTLEHAMPTON GOLF CLUB Looking for a great golfing experience beside the seaside for your Society day? With packages available from just £35.00 why not head for the only links course in West Sussex? At Littlehampton you are always sure of a warm welcome, whatever the weather, and we offer a great day’s golf and a wide range of menu options to suit your own requirements.
Littlehampton Golf Club, 170 Rope Walk, Riverside West, Littlehampton, West Sussex, BN17 5DL
T: 01903 717170 E: secretary@littlehamptongolf.co.uk www.littlehamptongolf.co.uk
A LL OF YO U R ELE C TR I C A L RE QUI R E M E NT S C OVE R E D L I G H T I N G | H E AT I N G | AV | P OW E R
07956 389283
MEET THE PRO
STEPHEN PLANE Stephen joined Banstead Downs Golf Club after 11 years serving as Head Assistant at Royal Wimbledon Golf Club. After learning his golf in the Academy at Eden Golf Club in Cumbria, Stephen won the Cumbria Under 21 Matchplay and represented the county at junior and ‘B’ team levels. Since turning professional, he played on the competitive North Region circuit, before deciding to move south to gain club professional experience at some of Surrey’s finest golf clubs.
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SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
MEET THE PRO
Date of birth: 28th March 1977 Hometown: Cobham, Surrey Current club: Banstead Downs GC Turned Pro: 1999 Brand of clubs used: A mix of Taylor Made, Callaway, Lynx and Yonex Favourite club in the bag: Taylor Made M1 driver
At what age did you start playing golf and which club did you start at?
What’s your favourite on course energy snack / drink?
I started playing golf at 11 years old and joined Brampton Golf Club in Cumbria.
Mars Bars
What advice would you give to the Surrey youngsters wanting to turn professional?
Who was/is your biggest influence?
Which Surrey club has the best half way hut?
Stay in education and get a good qualification, there’s plenty of time for golf!
Fred Couples
Wentworth
Which is your favourite Surrey course (apart from the one you are resident at) and why? Royal Wimbledon, the layout is great and the history of the place is outstanding. Which is your favourite course worldwide? The River Course, Kiawah Island What course is on your bucket list that you have not played yet?
What has been your most career defining shot so far? Hopefully the next one I hit! What do you enjoy doing off the course? Spending quality time with my family and jogging. Dream foursome (living)? Fred Couples, Rory McIlroy, my Dad
I was lucky to have gone to the Masters last year, so without doubt Augusta National
Dream foursome (living or dead)?
What have been the highlights and low points of your career?
If you could change one aspect, rule or thing about golf, what would it be and why?
Highlight – reaching Final Qualifier for the Open in 2000. It was old style qualifying and just like a Tour event. Low point – taking a 9 on the 72nd hole of the Cumbria Stroke play and losing by 3 shots!
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
My Mum, Grandad and Seve
The barriers put up by private clubs to put people off the game i.e. dress codes. Golf has got to be more accessible for the general public.
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NEWS EXTRA
STOKE PARK Encircling the club’s 300 acre Buckinghamshire parkland estate, the famous 27 hole Championship golf course, is undisputedly one of the finest parkland courses in the country.
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reated in 1908 by eminent golf architect Harry Colt, the Stoke Park course has been the inspiration for many of the world’s most famous holes and has seen many impressive rounds in its prestigious history, including the first PGA Matchplay tournament in 1910 and James Bond’s epic golfing duel in the 1964 classic 007 movie ‘Goldfinger’. Members hail changes to Stoke Park’s historic opening nine holes The recently re-opened first nine holes at Stoke Park Country Club, Spa and Hotel – the historic Colt course – have been heralded by club members as “brilliant”, “fantastic” and “the best feature of the club”. Golf club members had exclusive early access to the nine holes, which have undergone major bunker
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renovation during the winter months. Although the shape and size of the bunkers has changed, the renowned strategic positioning remains and members hailed the effect the changes have made, not just to the challenge of the course, but also its playability. Club captain John Sweeney said “I think the changes on the course are magnificent. The bunkers will play a lot harder and when the work on 10-18 is carried out next winter it will take the course to a whole new level. Its not just an aesthetic thing; that’s good, but it’s the quality and depth of the bunkering that makes the real difference. If you are in a bunker now you’re penalised and that’s the way golf should be played”. “Its made a massive difference to the sixth and eighth holes. Visually, the sixth is brilliant. The eighth
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NEWS EXTRA
has changed completely. It’s a more strategic course now. You have to really think about how you are going to play each hole and each shot”. The work on the opening nine Colt holes was part of a seven-figure facelift of Stoke Park’s 27 holes. The first loop includes the seventh hole which was the inspiration for the original 16th at Augusta National, home of the US Masters. Augusta designer Alister MacKenzie (18701934) was part of Colt’s original Stoke Park design team and a partner in the short-lived practice of Colt, MacKenzie & Alison. Stoke Park Country Club, Spa and Hotel is one of just two five-AA Red Star golf clubs in England and the historic land on which it stands is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. It was awarded the accolade of
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‘Ultimate Members Club’ at the annual 59club Service Excellence Awards last year and has a thriving membership with around 800 active players. For further enquiries or to book please call 01753 717171 or visit www.stokepark.com
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GOLF BREAKS
A TRUE TEST OF
GOLF F
rom Royal Lytham & St. Annes in the north to Royal Liverpool (Hoylake) in the south, England’s Golf Coast offers one of the finest golfing experiences you are ever likely to find. Every few years the golfing world descends on this small stretch of the Lancashire and Cheshire coastline when one of its three Open Championship venues of Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool and Royal Lytham & St. Annes plays host to golf ’s oldest major championship. It is easy to focus solely on the three royal courses but you will not have to scan much further down any ranking list to find a string of fine courses that are situated on this amazing piece of golfing terrain. Royal Lytham & St. Annes Golf Club is nestled between two busy seaside resorts and is one of the most unique courses in the rotation of the British
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Open. Despite being set within the confines of a Victorian housing estate, it is a links in every sense of the word, with sandy soil and the wind blowing in from the Irish Sea. The course opens with a Par 3, the only major championship course to do so. Holes 16 to 18 have produced some of the most memorable moments in major championship history, 16 being the scene of Seve’s famous ‘car park’ shot in 1979. Fairhaven is not only a beautiful place to play golf, it is a serious championship layout originally designed by James Braid. Recognised by the hierarchy of golf as one of the best courses in Northern England, Fairhaven has much to offer visiting golfers, whatever their handicap. Nearby, at St Annes Old Links, they are justly proud of their 6,941 yard par 72 championship links course.
Birkdale clubhouse
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GOLF BREAKS
Hesketh 16th
Formby 8th
England’s Golf Coast is home to some of the finest golf courses in Britain. With no less than seven courses in the ‘Top 100 Courses of the UK & Ireland’ and 11 listed in the ‘Top 100 Courses in England’ the concentration of championship golf available within England’s Golf Coast is unparalleled. The three Open Championship venues of Royal Birkdale, Royal Liverpool and Royal Lytham & St. Annes have hosted The Open an impressive 32 times between them since 1897.
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
Hillside 10th
Founded in 1901, the course has recently been chosen to host Open Championship final qualifying for four years from 2018 to 2021. Lytham Green Drive Golf Club had the honour of being an Open Championship final qualifying course in 1974, 1979 and 1988. Founded in 1913, the course is ideal for all handicaps. It’s particularly testing with rewards for the more adventurous player but allowances for shots by those of less ability. The Southport area is home to largest collection of courses within England’s Golf Coast, including the venue for next year’s Open Championship, Royal Birkdale. The links measure 7173 yards from the championship tees and although the distance itself is a test even for the most accomplished golfer, the wind, whistling down the fairways,
adds to the challenge. Each hole runs through a landscape of high dunes, the fairways are flat and fair and from the tee there is generally a clear view of the task ahead. Although the course is undoubtedly a links in nature, what really sets Formby Golf Club apart is the pine trees that line several of the holes. Formby has hosted many important national and regional amateur golf events, including four Amateur Championships. Hesketh is the oldest golf club in Southport, established in 1885. Part links and part parkland, the course sets a testing yet fair challenge. Hillside Golf Club lies a stone’s throw from Royal Birkdale, and has many of the attributes of its neighbour. The back nine was recontinued on page 34
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GOLF BREAKS
Royal Birkdale12th
RLSA 18th
designed in the 1960s and features a series of holes that linger in the mind long after a visit is over. Hillside has hosted Open Championship Final Qualifying each year since 2014. Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club is set amongst the dunes and is another of James Braid’s great creations. Heather, gorse and a stiff sea breeze provide you with a challenging and immensely enjoyable experience. The club hosted the Ryder Cup matches in 1933 and 1937 and is one of only four clubs to have hosted the biennial match on more than one occasion. Halfway between Southport and Liverpool you will find The West Lancashire Golf Club. The club was founded in 1873 and is among the ten oldest golf clubs in England. It boasts one of the most natural and testing links in the British Isles, of which Donald Steel wrote “Only in Britain can one savour the true flavour of seaside golf, of which West Lancashire is a perfect example”. Crossing over the River Mersey, you will find the Wirral, home to the oldest club on England’s Golf Coast
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– Royal Liverpool. The Hoylake course started life as the racecourse of the Liverpool Hunt Club. The golf course was built in 1869 and is the 2nd oldest seaside course in England. Whilst at first appearance the links may look flat, at 6,900 yards from the member’s tees it is a stern test and like all links courses, the wind makes its presence felt. The Clubhouse houses one of the finest displays of golfing memorabilia in the world and it is well worth adding a bit of extra time to your day to soak it all in. Caldy Golf Club provides a unique blend of seaside and parkland golf. Situated on the estuary of the River Dee, it is a picturesque setting with breathtaking views of the North Wales Mountains. One of the greatest attractions of the course is the variety of the holes, with the unpredictable nature of the wind giving each hole a different character from day to day. Heswall Golf Club offers similarly impressive views across the Dee estuary. The 6872 yard course is an enjoyable test, with the coastal breeze always playing its part.
Royal Liverpool 12th
Bromborough Golf Club describes itself as ‘Wirral’s Parkland Jewel’ and has hosted many notable amateur events, including the English Men’s Amateur Championship in 2005. Wallasey Golf Club is where a club member, Dr Frank Stableford, first developed the Stableford system of points scoring. The course itself is a true test of golf, due in part to the prevailing north westerly winds and the variety of holes, made all the more interesting by the natural terrain. Rounding out the fine collection of courses on England’s Golf Coast is Delamere Forest Golf Club, which is nestled in the heart of rural Cheshire. The course, designed by Herbert Fowler, is one of the finest heathland layouts in England. The land the course now sits on was underwater in prehistoric times, making for a sandy sub-soil than allows for excellent year-round conditions. For more information on golf breaks to England’s Golf Coast visit: www.englandsgolfcoast.com
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PLAY IN THE FOOTSTEPS
OF CHAMPIONS
DREAM LINKS Connoisseur Golf Tours
Why not, for one weekend, trade the hustle and bustle of city life for a couple of rounds of golf on the great links course of County Sligo on the Wild Atlantic Way which has attracted numerous major winners over the years? We think Byron Nelson, Tom Watson, Bernhard Langer, Sir Nick Faldo, Padraig Harrington, Graeme McDowell, Rory McIllroy and Danny Willett know a bit about golf courses – but don’t take our word for it – book a short trip and make your own mind up. Your four ball can fly out of the UK on Saturday morning and be on the 1st tee of the Co Sligo Championship links by lunchtime. After your round, enjoy a few drinks on the 19th before strolling down the village to an awardwinning pub and restaurant for a splendid meal followed by traditional entertainment. On Sunday there will be plenty of time for another round before flying back fully rejuvenated from your Dream Links experience. We also organise Dream Links experiences that include other excellent links courses close by such as Enniscrone, Strandhill, Carne, Murvagh.
For more information contact: tom@dreamgolflinks.com or check out our website www.dreamgolflinks.com
West Lancashire Golf Club
Only in Britain can one savour the true f lavour of seaside golf of which West Lancashire is a perfect example Donald Steel
Tel: 0151 924 1067 | E-mail golf@westlancashiregolf.co.uk | www.westlancashiregolf.co.uk
Your home for golf in the North West of Ireland... & “A river runs through it...� Mount Falcon estate is ideally located in North County Mayo providing convenient access to 12 golf courses within an hour's drive including the top championship links courses of Carne-Belmullet, Enniscrone and County Sligo/Rosses Point, All voted in the Top 20 courses in Ireland. The epicentre of the 100 acre parkland estate is the multi award winning hotel and selection of luxurious lodges, on site activities include; a golf driving range, clay pigeon shooting, archery, falconry, a leisure facility and spa, 4 miles of Woodland trails, Kitchen Garden, fishing on our trout lake and 2 miles of prolific salmon fishing on the world famous, River Moy. Contact us today for more information: Mount Falcon, Foxford Road, Ballina, Co. Mayo, Ireland. Tel: 00353 (0) 96 74472 Email: info@mountfalcon.com Web: www.mountfalcon.com
GOLF BREAKS
A TRUE MASTERPIECE
On the rugged west coast of Scotland, an icon has been reborn. The legendary Turnberry hotel and the Ailsa course are now reopen following a multimillion pound refurbishment.
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rump Turnberry sits on the beautiful Ayrshire coast and is located just one hour from Glasgow Airport. Perhaps most well-known for its Championship golf course, the Ailsa is one of the world’s most loved golf courses and has had the privilege of hosting the Open Championship four times, including the unforgettable 1977 Duel in the Sun. Since acquiring the resort in 2014, The Trump Organisation and famed golf course architects Mackenzie & Ebert completed a meticulous historic study and modern day review of the Ailsa course and have since created a true masterpiece. A selection of inspiring changes have been implemented including
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the creation of five dramatic and stunning new holes, plus a range of alterations covering virtually every corner of the course. Five new holes have been created at the 6th, 9th, 10th, 11th and 14th , together with alterations to all other holes including the reshaping and positioning of bunkers, new tees and green positions and the softening of green contours to provide for more options for flag positions. Turnberry’s iconic lighthouse, which has acted as a timeless beacon for golfers from across the world, has also re-emerged as the world’s most impressive half way house. Situated on the cusp of the rocky coastline, stop and enjoy a refreshment while marvelling not only at the new challenges laid out by this magnificent course, but the panoramic beauty of the surrounding scenery. The lighthouse has also been transformed into a luxurious two bedroom suite, perfect for guests looking for something a little more lavish and bespoke. Standing sentinel above these links golf courses is the Turnberry hotel. This instantly recognisable traditional Edwardian building is set across three
levels and first opened in 1906 as the world’s first golf resort. It boasts a coastal setting, with far reaching views to the Isle of Arran and Ailsa Craig. Through the renovation all bedrooms in the hotel building have been refurbished to create a reflection of the indigenous nature of the resort and its rich history. Each features a large, marble bathroom, with many offering exceptional views across the Championship links golf courses across to the Irish Sea. For more information on Trump Turnberry, visit www.trumpturnberry.com
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THE AILSA COURSE REBORN T H E L E G E N DA RY A I L S A C OU R S E AT T RU M P T U R N BE R RY I S N OW AVA I L A BL E F OR PL AY. Following a highly anticipated renovation by renowned architect, Martin Ebert, experience the dramatic changes, the panoramic views and the exhilarating challenges presented by this iconic course. Reflect over 9 magnificent holes played while enjoying a cool refreshment at the new Turnberry Halfway House, now located within our famed Lighthouse.
Tee off now. Please call 01655 333 991 or visit trumpturnberry.com
trumpturnberry.com
GOLF BREAKS
PRINCE’S BECOMES
GEO CERTIFIED P
rince’s Golf Club has achieved GEO Certified™ status which acknowledges the Club’s firm commitment to its eco reputation. The Golf Environment Organisation is the world wide body responsible for recognising Clubs which show environmental stewardship, resource efficiency and community value, it is an independent, not-for-profit group which make it a highly credible certification. The GEO cited that “Prince’s Golf Club is located in a beautiful, but challenging site for a golf course. It provides a beautiful links course with significant challenges for players, course management, natural environment and location. The level of effort involved in managing, maintaining and improving the natural environment goes well beyond these requirements, and speaks volumes for all involved in the management of the Club. The Club clearly understand their role as custodians of an important facility for the community, and an extremely rare habitat providing a home to a host of protected species. The development of the Lodge has incorporated the
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latest technology, and the plans for the clubhouse refurbishment will no doubt also include the latest innovations. The clear determination from all involved make it very easy for me to allow me to recommend GEO certification without any hesitation.” GEO were particularly impressed by Prince’s self-reliance of their water supply, in terms their own reservoir and also recycling the water from clubhouse and The Lodge. Sean McLean, Prince’s Course Superintendent has worked tirelessly with GEO to achieve this new status and improve the condition and layout of the links over the last few years also working with STRI Agronomist Alistair Beggs. Special note can be made of the improved bunkering in terms of location and quality, renewing the revetted faces of many bunkers and favouring a more traditional ‘dragged out’ look to others. The season where some of the protected orchids appear over the course is almost here and visiting golfers can expect to see the occasional lizard orchid and some areas carpeted with the pink Southern Marsh Orchid synonymous with the Lodge logo.
Why not go and experience this beautiful links venue? Golf Break packages available from £129.00 pp for one night’s Bed & Breakfast, 18 holes of golf and a 2-course Lodge Lounge Dinner. Call Mark Spratt 01304 611118 or email office@princesgolfclub.co.uk www.princesgolfclub.co.uk
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Golf Breaks From 1 May 2016 to 31 October 2016
STAY | PLAY | DINE
from £129.00pp Overnight accommodation for 2 people sharing a standard twin or double room Includes breakfast, 1 round of golf and 2 course bar menu dinner
Contact Mark on:
T: 01304 611118 E: office@princesgolfclub.co.uk W: www.princesgolfclub.co.uk Prince’s Golf Club, Sandwich Bay, Sandwich, Kent CT13 9QB
/princesgolfclub
@Princesgolfclub
GOLF BREAKS
IRELAND’S WEST
GOLF AS IT SHOULD BE
The West of Ireland possesses the most picturesque scenery, thrilling golf courses and the famous Irish welcome.
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t has long been said that this island is known as ‘Ireland of the Welcomes’. It is also said that we are blessed with some of the finest golf courses in the world. Put the two of those together, head for the West of Ireland, and this is golf as it should be. Here you will find five exceptional courses which dazzle beside the ocean and yet the fairways are rarely busy. For golfers flying from the UK, that’s a win-win scenario and a recipe for the perfect golfing break. And when you consider the value for money you’ll have no excuse not to visit. Don’t believe us? Our packages are designed to suit every budget... here are three to get you started: • Play Carne, Westport and Connemara and embrace some of the most startling scenery as you travel along the Wild Atlantic Way. For 3 rounds of golf and 2 nights B&B, packages start at £195 pps. Hotels include Abbeyglen Castle, Broadhaven Bay, Talbot or Talbot Lodge. • Combine 3 rounds at the worldclass Carne, Co. Sligo and Enniscrone with 2 nights B&B at Broadhaven Bay,
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Talbot, Talbot Lodge, Diamond Coast or Riverside hotels. Packages start at £310 pps. • Or why not play all 5 courses (see below) along this stunning coastline and stay at different places as you go? Packages start at £445 pps with 4 nights’ accommodation. Whichever you choose, wherever you play, you won’t be disappointed. Access to the region is excellent, with Gatwick, Luton and Stansted flying direct to Ireland West Airport Knock, in the heart of the West. The five courses are: Carne: Dunes rise 500 feet, promising the biggest and most adventurous links experience in the world. Rated 10th in Ireland by Golf World. Connemara: The perfect 360° setting for a links, which stretches over dunes and Connemara’s fabled rocky terrain. Rated 35th by Golf World. County Sligo: This Harry Colt classic combines an intriguing variety of links holes and majestic scenery. Rated 12th by Golf World. Enniscrone: A links to test your
abilities. Beautifully shaped and routed, the big dunes promise several blind shots. Rated 16th by Golf World. Westport: Set under the gaze of Croagh Patrick, Westport is a mature, rolling parkland. Rated 64th by Golf World. Visit www.westofirelandgolf.com to discover what’s on offer. +353 97 82292 ext. 2 or email us at info@westofirelandgolf.com
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WIN
THE JOYS OF
a two night break in Enniscrone. See page 65
IRELAND’S WEST Wild, raw and dramatic landscapes stretch across the countryside and coastline of Ireland’s West. Mountains ripple along the horizon and roads always seem to draw you to the ocean. And here, right on the ocean’s edge, are five of Ireland’s undiscovered golf courses... four of them links. Combined with a host of parkland gems, from Galway to Sligo, this is a golfer’s paradise where you are surrounded by beauty and
you will always receive the friendliest of welcomes. It’s what the West is known for. There are a variety of golf packages waiting for you, starting from £150 pps for two nights and two rounds of golf. Three London airports fly direct to the heart of this region (Gatwick, Stansted and Luton) so come for the golf and be inspired by the adventure.
For details of golf/accommodation packages please contact: +353 97 82292 extension 2 or email us at info@westofirelandgolf.com www.westofirelandgolf.com [Photos: Enniscrone, County Sligo, Connemara, Carne, Westport ]
Where land and sea collide and untamed beauty abounds
GOLF REVIEW BREAKS
THE VALE RESORT
REVIEW by Surrey Golf
Set within 650 acres of beautiful Welsh countryside, the Vale Resort is the perfect destination for a weekend golf break. Par 72 • 6436 Yards
H
aving previously visited The Vale to play The National Course I knew I was in for a great experience. This time I went back to play the Lake Course, which has staged numerous Wales and West PGA professional championships. One of two exceptional UK golf courses at the Vale Resort, the well-established and aptly named Lake Course is dominated by a 20acre lake and has water coming into play on 12 of its holes. NOTABLE HOLES The 1st (Par 3, 199 yards) is a long par three which plays a little shorter than its yardage suggests being downhill. A decent struck shot is needed to hit the large sloping green. The 4th (Par 4, 440 yards) with a slight dogleg left, commands a decent drive that needs a good line and length to reach the green in two good blows. Water sits in front of the green adding great difficulty to an already
18th
long testing shot. The green is raised from the fairway with a false front and anything but a perfect shot will slip back into the water. The 7th (Par 5, 510 yards) has out of bounds the whole length of the right hand side. The fairway camber is right to left and precision shots are required to reach the long green that is well protected on both sides. The 8th (Par 3, 210 yards) looks down over the largest heronry in Wales.
Aerial view of the 12th
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The 9th (Par 4, 387 yards) requires a good tee shot to give line of sight to the green, again well protected by water. The 10th (Par 3, 127 yards) is a short par 3, don’t go long on this or you will get wet! The 12th (Par 4, 315 yards) is the signature hole, ranked one of the UK’s top golf holes. It is unique, with an island green bringing fear into the approach shots. A great visual hole! The 18th (Par 4, 489 yards) is a dogleg left with a long precision drive required. Unless you are the longest of hitters you won’t get home in two! When planning golf breaks in Wales you’ll want to choose golf courses that are well worth the drive and you won’t be disappointed at the Vale Resort. With world class facilities, two well-established championship golf courses and an array of top industry accolades, the Vale Resort is one of the best venues for golf breaks in Wales. The Vale Resort Hensol Park, Hensol Vale of Glamorgan CF72 8JY 01443 667 800 www.vale-hotel.com
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P L AY | STAY | E N J OY Two championship courses, luxury accommodation, spa, leisure facilities and superb dining options. Wales’ golfing sweet spot is certainly worth a drive.
D,B&B plus 18 Holes from £89*pp
Half bottle of wine per person with group bookings in July & Aug*
Society Days from £30*pp
B&B plus 18 Holes from £69*pp
D I SCOV ER ONE OF T HE UK’S TOP GOLF BR EAK DESTINAT I ON S
01443 667800 | www.vale-hotel.com Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY *Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability. Groups of 8+
GOLF BREAKS
GET PACKING Monarch, the leading scheduled airline to leisure destinations, is providing golfers with a 20kg golf bag allowance on top of its generous 10kg of hand luggage per customer!
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ith a standard bag and club set only weighing in at around 10-12kg, pro-packers can maximise the spare space in their golf bag and hit the greens in style without their wallets being bogeyed by excess luggage charges. Monarch’s 20kg of additional baggage allowance can actually accommodate a sizable amount of golfing accessories – 400 golf balls, to 200 gloves or 10,000 tees. However, for golfers wanting to model something more substantial than artfully-placed hand wear on the fairway, Monarch Director of Flight Operations, Captain Martin Dudley
advises on golf-break essentials and provides the packing tricks of the trade to ensure every last inch of space is maximised. Captain Dudley says: “We are always looking for ways to make life easier for our customers. Flying to key golfing destinations such as the Algarve, Tenerife, Spain, Majorca and Cyprus, golfers know that we
PACKING WEIGHTS 30kg total weight allowance Item
Weight (kg)
Golf bag and clubs
15
Hand luggage lightweight bag
1
Shoes x 2
1.2
Shirts x 5
1
Trousers x 2
1.4
Jumpers x 2
1
Underwear x 5
0.5
Socks x 5
0.3
Windbreaker 1 Glove x 2
0.1
Smart casual shirts x 5
1
Smart casual trousers x 5
1.4
Toiletries and golf sundries
5
Total 29.9
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understand their requirements and deliver a stand-out service for them. “Golfers can enjoy their trip away knowing they have the convenience of our golf bag allowance, teamed with Monarch’s generous hand luggage provision. Having the one bag makes it much more practical for golfers when travelling abroad – no one wants to be carrying a big case as well as a golf bag! “We’ve created a golfing break checklist, complete with weights, so golfers know just how much they can take away with them both to hit the greens and the clubhouse bars afterwards. Our expert packing tips will also help golfers to pack efficiently and squeeze every last bit of space out of their luggage. If 20kg just isn’t enough for the clubs and clothing then golfers can also add a hold bag for another 20kg allocation. “We look forward to welcoming our golfing customers over what promises to be a great summer on the courses across Europe.” For a full list of destinations please visit www.monarch.co.uk/ destinations
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DRUMOIG GOLF HOTEL
MILLIONAIRES GOLF AT AFFORDABLE PRICES
(St. Andrews)
STAY & PLAY RATES: May to September 2016 1 night B&B any day 2 rounds of golf
£79pp
2 nights B&B Sun to Thurs 2 rounds of golf
£89pp
2 nights B&B Fri to Sat 2 rounds of golf
PRO LESSONS AVAILABLE
For those who have not heard of it, Alton Golf club is a long established (1908) James Braid designed Golf Course in a tranquil setting of North East Hampshire close to the Surrey border.
£99pp
Our accommodation comprises 29 en-suite rooms – 24 in unique lodges adjacent to the main facilities – tastefully furnished with Freeview TV, BT Sport and complimentary tea and coffee making facilities.
Its limited membership allows for lots of room for visitors to ‘pay and play’ Alton has been described as a great place to learn your golf and to test your skills!
Starters Box, Drumoig, St. Andrews, Fife KY16 0DS
E: reception@drumoiggolfhotel.com T: 01382 541898 (Golf) • 01382 541800 (Hotel)
The Course is often quiet during the summer evenings – perfect for a quick 9 holes and a pint or a G&T. Why not give us a call or drop by and see us?
Phone 01420 82724 or visit www.altongolfclub.com Ben Cummings pro lessons – www.bencummingsgolf.co.uk
www.drumoiggolfhotel.com
Golf In South Devon
MALONE GOLF CLUB Stunning parkland golf course located just 5 miles from Belfast city centre
• • • • • • • • •
Superb Sea Views Bars & Restaurants Snacks, Lunches, Dinners Golf Practice Area Extensive Grounds Reduced Fee Golf at DWGC Heated Indoor Pool Outdoor Swimming Pool Fitness Room
• • • • • • • •
Tennis Table Tennis Snooker FREE Wi-Fi 20 Courses within 20 Miles 64 En-Suite Bedrooms Hairdressing Beauty & Holistic Therapies
• FREE Car & Coach Parking
• Considered by many to be the best ‘old style’ parkland course in Northern Ireland • 27 hole facility with green fees to suit all budgets • Host venue of the Vagliano Trophies in 2015 and many other championships over the years • Mature 330 acre estate, with a magnificent 180 year old main clubhouse building
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. John Redmond, Great Golf Courses of Ireland
MALONE GOLF CLUB 240 Upper Malone Road, Belfast, BT17 9LB T: 02890 612758 E: manager@malonegolfclub.co.uk
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Telephone 01626 868000
Mount Pleasant Road, Dawlish Warren, Dawlish Devon EX7 0NA
www.malonegolfclub.co.uk
www.langstone-hotel.co.uk
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GOLF BREAKS
WELCOME TO THE GOLF REPUBLIC! 48
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GOLF BREAKS
Play the Caribbean’s most spectacular golf destination – with 86 ocean view holes
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amed IAGTO Golf Destination of the Year for Latin America & the Caribbean for the third time in 2016, the Dominican Republic has it all for golf visitors. With a wide array of inland and coastal courses for the golf traveller to enjoy, the Caribbean nation has more Oceanside golf holes than any other comparable destination, their spectacular settings leaving golfers with indelible memories. There are currently 18 tourist-friendly golf courses offering more than 350 holes of golf, and more are due over coming years. Most courses are part of golf resorts in popular tourist areas and close to other golf resorts and hotels, allowing golfers to play a different course every day during their stay, while still leaving time for them to enjoy the resort’s facilities, relax on the stunning beaches or do other activities. TOP COURSES CREATED BY GREAT GOLF ARCHITECTS Ardent golfers like to play on top golf courses when they travel, and the quality of the golf in the Dominican Republic is second to none. The manicured fairways, smooth and true continued on page 50
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greens, well-maintained tee boxes and bunkers, beautifully-tended surrounding areas and excellent practice facilities of its courses will delight even the sternest critic. Distance markers on fairway sprinkler heads help players with club selection. With such notable names behind many of its layouts, the quality of design is also up there among the best you will find anywhere. The list of designers who have stamped their mark on the country’s courses reads like a Who’s Who of golf. The country’s courses have also been host to several key professional events. Punta Espada staged the Cap Cana Championship, an official PGA TOUR Champions Tour event, between 2008 and 2010, and in 2014 and 2015 Teeth of the Dog hosted the annual Dominican Republic Open, an NEC Series-PGA Tour Latinoamérica
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event, drawing more than 140 players from over 15 countries each time. The Hard Rock Golf Club has hosted it twice. All courses have a range of tee positions to cater to different golfing abilities. While most golfers will be happy to play off the resort tees (typically the white tees), longer hitters who want to open their shoulders and test their game can move back to play off more challenging tee positions. When Teeth of the Dog was revamped a decade ago, its championship black tees were lengthened from less than 6,900 yards to 7,471 yards, while the gold tees now measure over 7,000 yards. Punta Espada’s black and gold tees reach 7,396 yards and 6,883 yards respectively. There are plenty of options for golfers once they have finished their round. The Caribbean’s second-largest country is one of the most ecologically-diverse nations in the world, boasting stunning vistas, including waves crashing over dramatic coastlines, coconut palm groves, waterfalls, caves, forested mountains and lush, exotic nature which visitors can enjoy on excursions. There are also many other activities to take part in, quite apart from sampling the country’s famous cigars and rum and seeing how they are made. In resort areas and town
centres, visitors can also indulge in some retail therapy and visit bars, restaurants and nightclubs, including the famous car wash discos. TEETH OF THE DOG Pete Dye’s first Casa de Campo creation, in 1971, was the course that initially put the Dominican Republic on the world’s golf stage. Over 40 years later, Teeth of the Dog consistently ranks among the world’s best courses. There are seven oceanfront holes. Dye sharpened its teeth in 2005 by lengthening some holes and upgrading greens and bunkers. One of a number of remarkable ‘bucket-list’ courses in the Dominican Republic. Location: Casa de Campo Resort, La Romana. Holes: 18; Par: 72; Yardage: 6,888 www.casadecampo.com.do/golf PLAYA DORADA GOLF CLUB Opened in 1976, this lovingly maintained golf course designed by legendary architect Robert Trent Jones Sr is located in the popular Playa Dorada resort complex in Puerto Plata, providing easy accessibility and numerous accommodation and package options. Walking this relatively-flat course the golfer will continued on page 52
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• Summer Golf Breaks available from £99.00 per person or £179.00 per person (2 night) • Includes 3-course dinner, bed & breakfast, unlimited golf and use of the leisure facilities • Book direct and receive a 10% discount on drinks
Enjoy a great day of golf with our Golf Day packages starting from £29.95 per person, available Monday – Friday
Gower Golf Club
Stunning golf and a great destination Play and stay packages available for 1 or 2 nights at one of South Wales’ best parkland courses on the edge of the Gower Peninsula. Call Adrian for details 01792872480 email enquiries@gowergolf.co.uk
Conveniently located within 4 miles of the M1, A5 and M69
golf@ullesthorpecourt.co.uk • 01455 209023 www.ullesthorpegolfclub.co.uk
Gower Golf Course, Cefn Goleu, Three Crosses Swansea SA4 3HS • www.gowergolf.co.uk
A WARM WELCOME TO ALL GOLFERS
Spectacular views over the DevonCornwall border. The peace and tranquillity of Stover Golf Club, located on the edge of Newton Abbot is a convenient treat for golfers in the south west, with easy access from the A38 and M5. The course is one of the best parkland courses in the south west and features a wide variety of holes, elevation change, mature trees, streams and picturesque ponds
A James Braid Golf Course
Bovey Road, Newton Abbot, Devon TQ12 6QQ T: 01626 352460 E: secretary@stovergolfclub.co.uk www.stovergolfclub.co.uk
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Offering great deals for Societies and Green Fees. Call us on 01566 773442 or email secretary@launcestongolfclub.co.uk www.launcestongolfclub.co.uk 51
breathtaking, distinctive design has quickly established Corales as one of the Dominican Republic’s must-play courses, featuring six ocean-front holes set between rocky cliffs, coral reefs and the Caribbean Sea. Location: Puntacana Resort & Club, Punta Cana Holes: 18, Par: 72; Yardage: 7,555 www.puntacana.com PUNTA BLANCA GOLF CLUB
enjoy a botanical feast with Mahogany trees, sea grapes, almond trees, coconut palms and the majestic royal poinciana lining the fairways, not to mention carefully preserved mangrove forests. The 7th hole plays right along the beach front and is one of four holes with ocean views. Location: Playa Dorada, Puerto Plata Holes: 18; Par: 72; Yardage: 6,990 www.playadoradagolf.com CORALES GOLF CLUB This Tom Fazio creation, the second oceanfront course at Puntacana Resort & Club, was inaugurated in 2010. It features cliff-top holes along the north shore of the resort’s luxury Corales enclave, together with inland lakes and coralline quarries. A truly dramatic final three holes includes the aptly named Devil’s Elbow, demanding a testing final approach shot over the turquoise Corales Bay. Fazio’s
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Inaugurated in May 2007 and the first design in the Caribbean by three-time Major championship winner Nick Price, the fairly-open, inland course is built around natural wetlands within Macao’s Punta Blanca residential development and features wide fairways with large bunkers and lakes. As would be expected by such a renowned golf course architect, each hole presents a challenge and the greens have a lot of movement. Location: Carretera Arena Gorda-Macao Holes: 18; Par: 72; Yardage: 7,174 www.punta-blanca.com
where two separate greens are rotated daily), and indigenous coral rock formations on holes 9 and 18. The course is located at the center of the Guavaberry residential development. Location: Autovía del Este Km. 55, Juan Dolio. Holes: 18; Par: 72; Yardage: 7,156 www.guavaberrygolf.com.do PUNTA ESPADA GOLF CLUB Nicklaus’ first Signature Course in the Dominican Republic opened in September 2006 and continues to make top golf course lists including Golfweek magazine’s number one course in the Caribbean and Latin America in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2015. Nicklaus’ gem boasts eight holes playing either alongside or over the Caribbean Sea and a further five with ocean views. Location: Cap Cana, Punta Cana Holes: 18; Par: 72; Yardage: 7,396 www.puntaespadagolf.com
GUAVABERRY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB This Gary Player design is located 30 minutes east of Santo Domingo’s airport near the resort town of Juan Dolio and borders a tropical forest and nature preserve. Opened in 2002, Player included some unique features into the design, such as a 15-foot waterfall cascading into a quarry pond (on the par-3 13th signature hole,
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COMPETE WITH YOUR PGA PROFESSIONAL AT GOLF’S FINEST TOURNAMENT VENUES Including: Pebble Beach Sawgrass Scottsdale Las Vegas & Palm Springs
GOL F’S FINE ST TOU RNA HOL MENT IDAY S
www.pro-amtour.com Tel: 023 8046 5885
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Email: info@pro-amtour.com
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GLORIA GOLF RESORT WITH A STUNNING MEDITERRANEAN BEACH RESORT AND 45 HOLES OF BRILLIANT GOLF, THIS IS THE LARGEST GOLF RESORT IN TURKEY AND COMES WITH BEAUTY, LUXURY, AND THOSE EXTRA SPECIAL TOUCHES THAT COMPLIMENT YOUR STAY
REVIEW by Surrey Golf
S
ome nervous travellers have discounted the prospect of visiting Turkey as they watch the world’s political troubles from afar. Those same fearful tourists presumably won’t set foot on any kind of public transport or go anywhere near an airport either! There is a school of thought that suggests if you live your life in fear of what may happen on foreign shores (or at home for that matter) those who want to disrupt the way we live our lives, have achieved what they set out to do. Basically, you’ve let them win. Of course, safety issues are paramount and these days a trip anywhere comes with a certain degree of risk assessment, but on the evidence of a May trip to Gloria Golf Resort in Belek, Turkey, those who stay home are missing out. Gloria Golf Resort is a stunning Mediterranean beach resort with 45 holes of brilliant golf on its doorstep. It is the largest golf complex in Turkey,
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designed by the French golf course architect Michel Gayon. A comfortable four-hour flight with Monarch from Gatwick got us in the mood and when we arrived it was a 30 minute transfer to the hotel complex. When you get there, it feels safe, it feels like a holiday destination and it feels like some fabulous courses to play in glorious sunshine. Three superb hotels are interconnected via regular shuttles – Gloria Golf, Gloria Verde and Gloria Serenity – increasing the restaurant options to mind-boggling choice – 10 minutes or so down the road is Gloria Sports
Arena, a €50m complex to train Olympic and elite athletes in any number of sporting disciplines. While none of our group would be considered elite athletes, we know our way around a golf course. And we know when those courses are good and enjoyable to play. OLD COURSE – 6529M PAR 72 Gloria’s ‘Old’ Championship Golf Course, nestled among pine trees, offers a comfortable environment to perfect your game. The course is studded with natural foliage and enveloped in a cocoon of peace and
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
REVIEW
OFF THE COURSE LA SOURCE SPA: La Source Spa is known throughout the world for setting new standards in spa luxury and trends. You’ll enjoy the sounds of nature, or the music of your choice as you enjoy La Source Spa services, Turkish and Finnish Baths, a sauna, private hairdresser, and massage rooms that boasts the ultimate in comfort and serenity.
GETTING THERE: Monarch, the scheduled leisure airline, operates flights to Antalya from London Gatwick airport with fares, including taxes, starting from £69 one way (£133 return) For further information or to book flights, holidays or hotels, please visit www.monarch.co.uk
FIT GLORIA: No need to let your workout routine lapse during your vacation. Gloria Golf Resort boasts a world-class fitness centre. BEACHES AND POOLS: The river meets the sea and the sea meets the nature at Gloria Golf Resort. The water is clean, the sand sparkling and when the day is done the nearby bars offer a place for a cool drink and an energising snack. AQUA PARK: The aqua park features eight different water slides. From gigantic to small, wild to tame, there’s fun for every member of the family no matter the age! FOOD & BEVERAGE: When it comes to dining at Gloria Golf Resort, the options are as limitless. Whatever you desire, be it a light snack, a flight of wine, a poolside lunch or a multicourse tasting menu dinner, you’ll find it.
privacy, allowing you to focus on your shots and the finer points of your game. Opened in 1997, it is one of the oldest in Turkey and a true favourite for travelling golfers. Straight from the off, this course brings risk and reward into play for the longer hitters, with a par 5 which requires an approach over water. This is a pattern that continues into the 2nd with a par 3, again over water and a solid shot required to hit the green. The Old Gloria course then continues through delightful pine woodland, with a collection of strong holes that require needle straight driving to leave you in a decent position. With 7 lakes and over 60 bunkers to avoid, it’s a testing but fantastic track that you would happily play more than once during a visit. NEW COURSE – 6523M PAR 72 Gloria’s ‘New’ Course has proven to be a favourite among golfers since 2005. In 2007, the course was the site for the European Seniors Tour Classic, and
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
in 2012, the World Amateur Team Championship. Notable holes on the New course would be the 2nd with its undulating fairway, the 3rd (The Quarry) where the tee shot is played over rocks and the 17th, which features its own island green, a stunning hole but a little wind and the lake will see more action than the green. With a further nine holes – named the Gloria Verde – set around another big lake in the midst of a pine forest and off-course facilities as good as anywhere in Europe, the Gloria Resort is high quality through and through. The Gloria resort boasts a fabulous new clubhouse and extensive practice facilities. All these factors help to make the Gloria Golf Club a very special experience.
For further information or to book visit www.gloria.com.tr/en or email info@gloria.com.tr
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PRODUCT NEWS
HIRZL LAUNCHES LATEST HIGH PERFORMANCE GOLF GLOVE Swiss glove specialist HIRZL has launched its latest high performance golf glove – the TRUST Hybrid plus+ adding colour options and more extensive performance coverage to the incredibly popular Hybrid glove. Underpinning the performance of the Hybrid Plus+ is HIRZL’S trademarked GRIPPP™ technology. Extensively tanned Kangaroo leather is combined with a 45 degree, pre-curved finger system and a stretch membrane that prevents bunching in the fingers and
provides the perfect fit. The resulting traction surpasses that of any other golf glove in the dry and the benefit only gets better when the weather is wet. With new styling and improved performance, the TRUST Hybrid plus+ marks a new high for the glove specialist, delivering a golf glove that looks as good as it performs. RRP: £16.99 www.hirzl.com
LOOK OUT FOR THIS SEASON’S ‘MUST HAVE’ NEW PRODUCTS... ULTEE – MIGHTY TWO-PIECE TEES Ultee is one of the best kept secrets in golf – and one that UK and Irish golfers haven’t benefitted from until now. For over 25 years these mighty two-piece tees have been available overseas and for plenty of golfers around the world Ultee is their tee of choice.
You can’t miss the bright, unique style of an Ultee. Available in many different colour combinations. At only £2.35 for a small pack of 20 short (50mm), 15 medium (63mm)
or 12 long (75mm) tees, they are fantastic value for money. So check out the full range of new products available online. www.ultee.co.uk
They’re made from ultra-light, lowimpact materials that produce an exceptionally strong tee that will last you up to 30 times longer than your standard wooden tee. The two-piece construction isn’t a gimmick. The shallow convex crowned rubber tee head significantly reduces ball/tee interaction, helping to maximise your clubhead speed through the ball. 56
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PRODUCT NEWS
THE NEW EZONE XPG RANGE OF CLUBS FROM YONEX Japanese company YONEX have been manufacturing graphite inspired golf clubs since 1982 and they understand the importance of designing and manufacturing golf clubs that perform for all levels of golfer. The new EZONE XPG range of clubs from Yonex includes a Driver,
Fairway Woods, Hybrids, Irons and a Putter specifically designed to help maximise your game. The new EZONE XPG Driver with its Composite Crown and Dual Tungsten Power System technology delivers maximum distance from an effortless swing. The enlarged Carbon Composite Crown and revolutionary counterbalance design creates a lower and deeper centre of gravity to create the optimum distance enhancing ball flight. The matching fairway woods and hybrids utilise the same technology for equally impressive results from the fairway or rough. The irons feature a new material called Chromoly Steel which allows the face to be made only 2.5mm thick, creating explosive power, whilst the double undercut cavity enlarges the sweetspot area for maximum forgiveness and performance across the entire face. Complementing
the set is the futuristic looking XPG putter with its off-set head design and prominent alignment aid together with a soft feel face insert for pin-point accuracy and distance control. For more information and to find a demo day near you please visit www.yonex.co.uk
COMPACT & EASY-TO-USE LASER RANGEFINDER GolfBuddy continues to expand its line by introducing a new laser rangefinder. The LR5 is a compact and easy-to-use device weighing just under 8oz and featuring three targeting modes-standard, scan and pin. Unlike most competitors, the LR5’s scan and pin mode is used with just one click. Get precise distance information to your target with the LR5 laser rangefinder. The rangefinder is accurate to within one yard of
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distance, with a 6 x magnification and doipter eyepiece adjustment. The device can calculate distance instantly by reflecting a laser of the target, with three targeting modes which include standard, scan and pin. This information is provided by an LCD display which can be changed to yards or meters, with a target box which focuses the laser on your desired target. RRP: ÂŁ219.99 www.gpsgolfbuddy.eu
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GOLF SHOP CROYDON B OT T O M P
R
R
50 o%ff
CROYDON GOLF SHOP 436-440 Brighton Road, South Croydon
020 8668 4977
S
• CLUBS • CLOTHING • BAGS • SHOES • TROLLEYS • WATERPROOFS ETC. • BEST SERVICE ON REPAIRS, RE-SHAFTING & RE-GRIPPING
IC E
CLEARANCE SALE
K OC
“I didn’t think going private was affordable until I found Spire Self-pay” Margaret Gallagher, previous Spire Self-pay patient
You could find private healthcare far more accessible than you expected with our fixed prices and a range of ways to pay. By knowing there’ll never be any unexpected extras you can choose Spire St. Anthony’s with confidence. Start now by looking at the prices we’ve put on our site. Or call to arrange an appointment and a price.
020 8335 4646 info@spirestanthonys.com www.spirestanthonys.com
Revolutionary and lightweight ULTEE is a revolutionary, lightweight, patented two-piece design created to minimise club interaction, to ensure potential club head speed is not compromised. Years of research, development and thorough testing have resulted in the discovery of the ultimate low-impact materials to construct the ULTEE.
READER OFFER Buy any 2 packs from the following pack items: 20 tees x 53mm, 15 tees x 63mm or 12 tees x 75mm Ultee’s online from any of our Original, Duo, Neon or Neon pink ranges and receive one pack *free of charge. To get this excellent offer, use our exclusive Surrey Golf promo code SGFP03 T’s & C’s apply. *Promotion ends 30th September 2016
It’s the smallest change that can mean your best game
www.ultee.co.uk E: sales@ultee.co.uk
REVIEW ey by Surr
Golf
MIURA MB-001 – A NEW WAY TO DISCOVER PERFECTION M
iura golf is a brand that the common weekend golfer in Surrey may not have even heard of but those in the know would tell you stories of urban legend about Miura – they don’t pay to sponsor tour players but would indeed build clubs for many a tour pro and brand them as the sponsored players’ brand. Is this true? I like to think so and on seeing my completed irons built to spec I can see why Miura are said to be the World’s finest forged golf clubs.
I met up with Tony West at Club Crafters in Horton Park Golf Club (One of Miura’s official dealers in Surrey) to fit for a set of Miura irons. Tony has been fitting clubs for 26 years, so I knew from the start I was about to be fitted with the best by the best. I hit all of the models with various shaft options whilst using TrackMan technology to provide the stats and make the selection. We settled on two different models which I then took away to use on the golf course over the next couple of rounds and determine which one was the perfect partner for me. MY PREFERRED CHOICE – THE MIURA MB001 On delivery I was privileged to watch Tony build the set to my specifications. He meticulously cut the KBS shafts to the desired length
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KATSUHIRO MIURA – MASTER CRAFTSMAN Master craftsman Katsuhiro Miura, who is often referred to in the Japanese media as having the Hands of God, actually works hands-on in his factory every day. He passes down his knowledge and skills to his two sons, and even grinds the club heads himself as well. His endless quest for the perfect club has brought to the world over 10 series of Miura clubs, a number that continually grows as he continues his meticulous refinement.
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
REVIEW
TURF TRAVEL: The sole shape and size, subtly adjusted from successful designs of earlier models, gets through the turf more efficiently and gives the player a better chance of keeping the club face square at impact. In a properly fitted MB001, this sole delivers a consistently sized, crisp divot that is evidence of a solid, efficient strike. TOP LINE: It’s narrow, but still shows the strength and substance of the face. At address, the top line presents a simple, clean look that reduces distraction and promotes confidence. TRANSITION AREA AND COMPACT LOOK: The flow of steel from the hosel to the low-offset head is smooth, elegant, and non-reflective. The MB001 head is almost the same length heel-to-toe as the Tournament Blade, and like that club, offers plenty of ‘face space’ without looking overly long.
UPRIGHT APPEARANCE: While the MB001, like all Miura irons, can be adjusted for lie angle by authorised Miura dealer/fitters, the entire aspect of this club at address gives a more upright aspect to the golfer. Without feeling cramped, the player feels closer to the ball, able to see all of it without adjusting away from a comfortable head position. This better view of the ball adds to pre-stroke confidence. GRAPHICS: As with all Miura irons, the back of the club head is uncrowded, simple, and designed for striking beauty. Less is a great deal more. • L ow carbon, premium Japanese steel • Precision forging in Himeji, Japan • Available in W nickel, chrome or black Boron
definitely a look that I prefer to my old, oversized, chunky game improvement iron. Miura are simply the best looking irons I have ever seen. They feel just incredible when you strike the sweet spot, but I have also been really pleased with the shots not caught quite out the middle of the club, surprisingly good for a bladed club. I found them to be a easy to work both ways and great out the rough. As a low handicap golfer, I was cut .4 in my first medal using them and have been growing in confidence with each outing on the course. PERFECTION
and the bladed Miura MB 001 heads were fitted, adding weight where needed to give a consistent D2 swing weight before adding the grips. Watching him expertly work his magic was a good experience and education. Tony uses his experience and expert eye along with Trackman to give you a fusion of the latest technology and old school club fitting. Standing over the ball with my club addressing it, the thin top line of the club head looks sleek;
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
Miura make perfection; works of art that have to be seen, held and hit to truly appreciate and understand just how amazing they are. They don’t just look good; they have a buttery soft feeling and deliver a consistent powerful penetrating ball flight. If you want the best of the best and a club made and built to perfection then Miura has to be the choice. Discover perfection. www.miuragolf.com www.clubcrafters.co.uk www.golfballistix.com
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Have you played the ultimate shot in golf and scored a
HOLE-IN-ONE? If you have, then why not capture the moment of glory forever with your own personalised handcarved, free-standing plaque to record the day?
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PUT THE SHANKS IN THE PAST – FOREVER
The Heavenly Hybrid range of clubs guarantee a non-shank round of golf, bringing the enjoyment back to your game. Don’t just take our word for it, visit our web site to read what golfers are saying about this.
T: 07766 733560 E: admin@heavenlyhybrid.com www.heavenlyhybrid.com 62
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
WEEKEND SUMMER SPECIAL Three-course evening meal
Friday and Saturday A round of golf Saturday and Sunday Breakfast Saturday and Sunday
MIDWEEK SUMMER SPECIAL Available Monday to Thursday A round of
golf
Three-course evening meal Bed & Breakfast
£69 PER PERSON
£145 PER PERSON
(Two nights accommodation based on two people sharing)
(Two nights accommodation based on two people sharing)
SUNDAY DRIVER Two rounds of
golf
Three-course evening meal Bed & Breakfast
£69 PER PERSON
(Two nights accommodation based on two people sharing)
Bells Hotel & the Forest of Dean Golf and Bowls Club Lords Hill, Coleford, Gloucestershire, GL16 8BE
www.bells-hotel.co.uk
THE WILMSLOW GOLF CLUB
BOOK EARLY
for Winter Packages £39.00pp – Winter Crow for societies and groups of 12 or more – includes: • Bacon roll and coffee on arrival
JULY & AUGUST GREEN FEE OFFERS Selected morning and afternoon rounds – normally £60.00pp • £120 – 3 ball • £150 – 4 ball Monday • £135 – 3 ball • £160 – 4 ball Tuesday & Thursday • £150 – 3 ball • £180 – 4 ball Friday and Sunday
• 18 holes of golf
JULY & AUGUST TWILIGHT ROUNDS
• Main course meal
• £99 – 3 ball • £120 – 4 ball Sunday to Friday
Available from 1 November 2016 to 31 March 2017 on Tuesdays and Thursdays only. Great Warford, Mobberley, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 7AY
Tel: 01565 872148 Fax: 01565872172 Email: admin@wilmslowgolfclub.co.uk SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
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COMPETITIONS
WIN A NEW WIN A HARRY COLT OUTFIT FROM BREAK AT STOKE PARK OSCAR JACOBSON Oscar Jacobson’s new Spring/Summer 2016 golf collection, part of the wider Oscar Jacobson Sport collection, will offer a healthy blend of proven performers and stylish newcomers, mixing performance-enhancing fabrics with eye-catching fashion statements to help you look and play your best in the serious part of the golfing year. Moreover, the fashion influences in its latest golf wear will make it more versatile than ever, seamlessly making the crossover from fairway to High Street, and looking equally at home on the course or around town. Prize is a complete outfit – sweater, polo shirt and trousers. TO ENTER email your details to oscar@surreygolfmag.com
The famed Colt course at Stoke Park Country Club, Spa & Hotel, which dates from 1908, and was designed by the eponymous Harry Colt, has undergone extensive bunker refurbishment during the winter,
It opened to much acclaim again in April and, now, Surrey Golf is offering one lucky reader the opportunity to experience it, with a stay-and-play Colt package at Stoke Park, one of just two five-AA Red Star golf clubs in England, The break, for two people, includes one night’s B&B accommodation in a Superior Room; a three-course dinner in the three AA rosette Humphry’s fine dining restaurant; and 18 holes of golf per person – and it’s worth more than £300.
www.stokepark.com TO ENTER simply email your details to stoke@surreygolfmag.com
Terms and conditions: Valid until 31/12/16 excluding: bank holidays, bank holiday weekends, Saturdays, December 24-31, 2016. Subject to availability.
WIN A LITTLE BLUEMAGIC WITH A NEW MIZUNO S5 WEDGE From an original spirit and desire to ‘create the best products for consumers’, Mizuno has become recognised the world over as the clear leader in golf club forgings, with its Grain Flow Forged irons and wedges still manufactured in Hiroshima, Japan. S5 offers the best wedge performance benefits that modern technology can bring, while still adhering to the spirit and desire that the brand has held so dear for nearly 110 years.
plating itself. The S5 wedges will also be available in Mizuno’s White Satin finish, which has proved extremely popular for many years now. http://golf.mizunoeurope.com TO ENTER email your details to mizuno@surreygolfmag.com
The brand’s latest S5 wedges have been precision-engineered to spin a little ‘BlueMagic’ into your wedge game courtesy of a stunning new Blue IP finish that’s designed to wear over time without reducing the durability of the
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SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
COMPETITIONS
WIN A 2 NIGHT GOLF BREAK IN IRELAND – INCLUDING FLIGHTS! views over Killala Bay, Bartra Island and sandy beaches with Nephin and the Ox Mountains forming the backdrop. Once you step on to the first tee prepare yourself for the ultimate golf experience. Dramatic dune lands, inspired design, superb greens and breath-taking views combine to make golf at Enniscrone an absolute delight.
We have teamed up with The Diamond Coast Hotel and Enniscrone Golf Club to give one lucky reader the chance to win a golf break for two. The Diamond Coast is one of the finest hotels in Sligo, located in the picturesque village of Enniscrone. It is one
of the most conveniently located hotels for any avid golfer with a range of spectacular courses to play in the region. The 18-hole championship Enniscrone Golf links course situated next to the Diamond Coast Hotel is the obvious choice. The course enjoys panoramic
The package includes return flights to Ireland, two nights bed and breakfast and dinner on both evenings at the Diamond Coast Hotel, Co Sligo. PLUS two rounds of golf for each person during your stay at Enniscrone Golf Club. www.enniscronegolf.com www.diamondcoast.ie TO ENTER email your details to diamond@surreygolfmag.com (open to UK residents only)
WIN A 4-BALL AT REMEDY OAK We’ve played Remedy Oak and it’s quite magnificent. It provides one of the most tranquil, personal and secluded golf experiences on the South Coast. Although an exclusive club for members and their guests, a few tee times are reserved for a small number of visitors. Even though the course is only 10 years old, National Club Golfer ranks Remedy Oak the 3rd best course in the South of England. It will also host the Open Championship Regional Qualifying tournament on June 20. To celebrate its 10th anniversary, Remedy Oak Golf Club in Dorset (just ½ hour’s drive west of Southampton), is
giving readers of Surrey Golf Magazine the opportunity to win a 4-ball to play the course.
www.remedyoak.com TO ENTER simply send your contact details to remedy@surreygolfmag.com
Closing date for all competitions 30th September 2016 – only one entry per person per competition. Winners will be picked at random. Visit website for full terms and conditions – www.surreygolfmag.com
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
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AFTER BEFORE
B E S P O K E G O L F C O U R S E C O N S T R U C T I O N A N D R E N O VAT I O N S P E C I A L I S T T: 07799 635169 | E: cjw@conorjwalshgolf.com | www.conorjwalshgolf.com
Society Golf Packages Set in the heart of a 7500 acre country estate and described as “a little corner of Heaven”... Rushmore isn’t as far away as you might think. Coffee & Bacon Roll 18 Holes of Golf From £27.50pp
Coffee & Bacon Roll 18 Holes of Golf Hot snack meal From £35pp
Coffee & Bacon Roll 18 Holes of Golf 2-course Meal From £42pp
Call us today on 01725 516391 to book in your group Rushmore Golf Club, Tollard Royal, SP5 5QB www.rushmoregolfclub.co.uk
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R A N K E D IN THE WORLD’S 100 B EST COURSES B O O K YO UR GO LF B RE A K AT SAUNTON & ROYAL NORTH D EVON and stay at the luxurious Saunton Sands Hotel with FREE transfers April - October 18 hole deals from just ‘I am a huge fan of Saunton, it’s a classic links course and a wonderfully absorbing challenge’
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• Stunning apartments for groups • Complimentary travel to and from Saunton Golf Club • Award-winning food and drink • Fantastic spa and indoor pool
Sir Nick Faldo
• Golf societies welcome
BOOK NOW WITH MARK JENKINS Hotel Group of the Year 2015
SAUNTON SANDS HOTEL, SAUNTON, NEAR BRAUNTON, NORTH DEVON, EX33 1LQ
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