ISSUE 14
SPRING 2018
SURREY GOLF T H E
M A G A Z I N E
F O R
S U R R E Y
C O U N T Y
COUNTY NEWS
G O L F E R S
SPOTLIGHT
News and events from around the county
Foxhills looks back for the future
GOLF BREAKS Wales – a warm welcome awaits you Luxembourg – home to great golf courses
PLUS...
DAVID BOOTE’S FINAL AMATEUR YEAR
SOUTHERN COUNTIES SCRATCH GOLF LEAGUE
MEET JOANNE TAYLOR
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Welcome...
PUBLISHED BY: Abstract Media Services Ltd Tel: 01883 370308
There may have been less golf played over the last few months, due to the heavy snow in many areas (let’s hope we have no more...), but there has been a lot of course improvements happening around Surrey this winter, including new holes at Chobham and a complete refurbishment of Bletchingly driving range, so if you’re looking for a some practice before you get out on the course or something a bit different then you should check them out. Once again, we have another packed issue for you... Lauren Blease looks at how to practice for that big game and Surrey’s Jean Hooper is voted England Golf ’s Volunteer of the Year. David Boote tells us about his final amateur year and we meet Joanne Taylor, pro at Tyrells Wood. Plus, we have all the latest news from across the county. For a change of scene, Wales offers a warm welcome and some legendary golf courses which come in all shapes and sizes and are undoubtedly among the best in the world. Alternatively, you could discover Luxembourg with unspoiled nature a flourishing economy and home to some beautiful golf courses, located within kilometres of each other, making it an ideal destination for golf breaks. Flying from user friendly London City Airport, Luxembourg is only an hour away. Keep up to date with some of this season’s ‘must have’ new products or kit yourself out with Ping’s latest premium quality golf clothing with up to date technology, state-of-the art fabrics, luxury materials and quality craftsmanship.
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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 www.surreygolf.org County Secretary: John A Davies Assistant County Secretary: Steve McNeill Office Manager and all Knockout results: Jane Duhart Junior U18 Manager: Alan Page Junior U16 Manager: Gary Barthram RookieTour Manager: Bob Lacey Head County Coach: John Noble COUNTY OFFICERS County Secretary: John Davies Treasurer: Stewart Simpson President: Jack Buchanan Chairman: Roger Vincent
Jo Habgood Editor
EG voting member: John Davies TEAM CAPTAINS/MANAGERS County Captain: David Corben Seniors Manager: Billy Mitchell
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SURREY LADIES COUNTY GOLF ASSOCIATION Tel: 01483 751622 President: Rosemary Wallis
We want to hear from you! Send us your news big or small, individual or clubs.
Ladies Secretary: Amanda Harris Ladies Captain: Sally Parrish
Email editor@surreygolfmag.com NEXT ISSUE – July 1st 2018
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
ABSTRACT MEDIA SERVICES LIMITED
Surrey Golf 3
CONTENTS
CONTENTS NEWS
Spotlight
6 Walton Heath is back on the mainstream of European Tour venues 8 Southern Counties Scratch Golf League 10 Reigate Heath golfers raise over £17,000 for local charities 12 Camberley golf captains make history 14 Golf, Guinness & Oyster Gathering (GGOG) returns to Burhill this summer 16 The Downs Trophy returns to Purley Downs Golf Club
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Surrey U14s enjoy winter training break in Spain
SURREY LADIES
JUNIOR NEWS
20 Jean Hooper is England Golf’s Volunteer of the Year
18 Tom Spreadborough – one to watch
22 Girls’ golf is set to get rocking in Surrey!
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SPOTLIGHT 24 Foxhills looks back for the future
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MEET THE PRO
34 Chobham improvements by Swan Golf Designs
26 We meet Joanne Taylor from Tyrrells Wood Golf Club
PRO TALK
OTHER NEWS
30 David Boote reviews his final amateur year
28 Bramshaw Golf Club is delighted to announce the relaunch of its 18-hole Forest Course
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GET INTO GOLF 32 How to practise smarter with Lauren Blease
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
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GOLF BREAKS 36 A warm welcome awaits you in Wales 46 Luxembourg – home to great golf courses 52 Bordeaux and South-West of France – golf’s untapped destination
FASHION 54 PING Launches SS18 Performance Apparel Collection
PRODUCTS 56 Shot Scope V2 – the only GPS watch with automated performance; Big Max launches next generation bag range; Duca Del Cosma releases exciting new shoe range and
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
36 Volvik expands its top-selling VIVID ball range 58 Sun protection from Techniblock 59 Custom-made foot orthotics direct to you from Bespoke Insoles
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SURREY NEWS
BLOOMIN’ ROSEY AT WALTON The very ‘porous’ secret eventually popped out of the bottle at the end of last year, that at last, Walton Heath was back on the mainstream of European Tour venues. Charles Briscoe-Knight
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hanks had to go to one of the main ‘stars in their stable’ – Justin Rose. As it was his turn to host the recently resurrected British Masters. He obviously would have liked to take it to North Hants – where he learnt the game under the guidance of his Dad – but length and logistics prevented that. So his search ended with arguably the best ‘heather and heaven’ course in the land on the Surrey Hills with the ‘big sky’ over Walton Heath. There was much soul searching by the club, with some members fearful that their iconic heather would be
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trampled underfoot by a massive gallery, and it would take years to recover – just as was in 1981 when the Ryder Cup took place over the same layout. Back then, the USA brought arguably the greatest ever Ryder Cup team to the Eastern Atlantic Countries, when the likes of Nicklaus, Watson,Trevino, Miller, Kite, Crenshaw and Irwin all pitched up and blew Europe (minus Seve) away 18.5 to 9.5. An entry of similar status in 2018 might just walk onto the first tee in October. Justin has a few friends in his neighbourhood in the US. that he could put the squeeze on to “do him a favour” and enter his party. He has an advantage, in that the Ryder Cup will only just have been played, and the traditional Dunhill event in Scotland hapens the week before. The main US Tour season will have finished by then as well. Watch this space to see if Tiger, Dustin and Jordan are seen hitting wedges into 500yd par fours in October! Whoops, did I say Tiger? Well Justin has played in Tigers end of season party in the Bahamas, at least twice, so why not return the favour Tiger? Now there’s a scenario which states, the last pairing on Sunday the 14th October might see Justin vs Dustin or even Tiger vs Jordan? Or Rory vs Beef...
One thing is certain though, whoever pitches up, the course will play long, maybe something over 7,600yds and Michael Mann’s work on the layout won’t permit ‘silly scores’. Finishing on a new formatted 18th (Old Course) the traffic on the Dorking Road might be sufficiently dense to consider a detour if you’re not walking the Heath! www.waltonheath.com
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
Where you belong
Discover the fairway to heaven at Foxhills Club & Resort. From Saturday morning rounds with friends, to perfecting your child’s drive on the par three, Foxhills has Championship down to a tee. Join the Foxhills family and experience quality leisure time, with a dip in the indoor or outdoor pools, sports massage in the spa or roll up to monthly practice sessions with our friendly pros. The perfect setting for a home away from home, you are guaranteed to feel better when you leave than when you arrive.
Stonehill Road, Ottershaw, Surrey KT16 0EL t: 01932 704450 foxhills.co.uk/join
SURREY NEWS
SOUTHERN COUNTIES SCRATCH GOLF LEAGUE The Southern Counties Scratch Golf League is dedicated to giving scratch golf in the South of England the meaning it deserves through a league format bound to get the competitive juices flowing.
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ounded in 2017 to give new meaning to elite amateur golf in the South of England, the forward thinking Southern Counties Scratch Golf League is in 2018 calling on 40 teams from five counties to compete for one coveted trophy. If you and your club have what it takes to beat the best clubs in the South of England then enter before the 14th of April and the 2018 trophy could be yours! THE 2018 SCSG LEAGUE FORMAT
• Singles Scratch Matchplay • 40 clubs from the South of England • Berkshire, Surrey, Kent Hampshire and Sussex.
• Eight groups of five teams (travel times between clubs maximum 45 minutes where possible) • Five teams of six players • Monthly matches from May – August (two home matches, twp away matches) • Winners of each group go through in to quarter finals (early September) • Winners of quarter finals join us at the 2018 finals day (late September) • Semi-final and final to find one winner (amazing prizes for all) FIVE REASONS TO ENTER • The Southern Counties Scratch Golf League gives your elite team the opportunity to play competitive golf throughout the summer in a way like no other league offers • In breaking down county borders we are giving your club the chance to play new and exciting courses in the South of England that would otherwise be unplayable
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• Unlike knockout golf, your elite team will play a minimum of four matches (two home, two away) over the summer of 2018 • The entry fee of £200 covers everything for the season including the finals day should you make it that far • Thanks to our sponsors we have some fantastic prizes on offer to golfers throughout the season For more information and to enter visit: www.scsgleague.co.uk or email scsgleague@gmail.com Contact: Alex Cooper – 0778 643 0904 or Will Goy – 0747 311 1433 Find us on
@SCSGLEAGUE
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
SAY HELLO TO DR JOHANN STYGER AND GOODBYE TO YOUR DENTURES
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SURREY NEWS
REIGATE HEATH GOLFERS RAISE OVER £17,000 FOR LOCAL CHARITIES
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ollowing on the success of the first one in 2012, Reigate Heath Golf Club held its second 3-Way Charity Golf Day to raise money for good causes. Once more the club’s members got right behind it and the net results of the golf day itself, the black tie auction dinner afterwards and numerous donations is the wonderful total of just over £17,000 for three local charities. Club captain John Lindley said: “The club showed its support for good causes back in 2012, and now five years later we’ve managed to repeat
the performance. It goes to show that we’re not only a genuinely friendly family orientated golf club, but one whose members go the extra mile for other people, other families, and their children.” He added: “Reigate Heath GC is widely regarded in the world of golf as the best nine hole course and club in the UK, but with an achievement like this I believe it can also claim to be a real asset of the Reigate community.” Ladies’ Captain Claire Gallagher commented: “The amount raised is a testimony to the sort of club Reigate Heath really is. As members we all come from all sorts of different backgrounds, but for something like the 3-Way Charity Golf Day, we’re all of the same mind when it comes to helping others.” Chosen by the club’s captains of the Men’s, Ladies and Ancient (ie. those over 55!) Britons’ sections, the money
was divided between the following causes respectively: • The Men’s Captain John Lindley chose the Chestnut Tree House which provides final care to children, particularly those injured in sporting events. • The Ladies’ Captain Claire Gallagher chose the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Trust based at Redhill Aerodrome, which provides a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS), responding to patients who have suffered trauma or serious medical emergencies, operating 24 hours a day for the most critically ill and injured people in the region. • The AB’s Captain David Ruston chose Home-Start, a leading family support charity which helps families with young children to deal with whatever life throws at them to give their kids the best start in life.
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SURREY NEWS
CAMBERLEY GOLF CAPTAINS MAKE HISTORY Husband and wife Kevin and Deborah Warner have been elected as Captain and Lady Captain at Camberley Heath Golf Club.
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t is the first time in the club’s illustrious history that a married couple have taken on the captaincy roles in the same year. Kevin and Deborah, who live in Springfield Road, Camberley, have been members of the golf club for eight years and are looking forward to a busy schedule of official club competitions, matches and social events. “It is a great honour and privilege for Deborah and I to take on the captaincy roles at Camberley Health,” said Kevin Warner. “Our beautiful golf course was designed by renowned architect Harry Colt and was founded in 1913. It is a challenging par-71 course which has been voted one of the top 100 courses in England.” CAPTAINS CHARITY In addition to a packed programme of golf and social events, one of the most important aspects of the role is to nominate and raise funds for the captain’s charity. This year, Kevin and Deborah have both selected the Aldershotbased Step by Step charity, which empowers young people and prevents homelessness. “We were both particularly keen to select a charity that helps local young people,” said Deborah. “After visiting Step by Step and learning more about its fantastic work, we decided that we would like it to be this year’s official charity.” Kevin and Deborah have set up a Just Giving page for people who would like to support the charity: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ camberleyheathcaptainscharity
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From left: Chiara Cadei, Deborah Warner and Kevin Warner at Camberley Heath Golf Club
Chiara Cadei, Community Fundraising Officer at Step by Step, said: “We are naturally delighted to be chosen by Camberley Heath Golf Club as this year’s charity and would like to thank Kevin and Deborah for their valued support and to wish them a very successful and enjoyable captaincy year. “Step by Step supports local young people who are going through hard times. We take a unique step by step approach, providing accommodation, personal development opportunities, and specialist support services. Our approach helps young people to
identify and fulfil their aspirations.” Based in Crimea Road, Aldershot, Step by Step can accommodate up to almost 250 people at any one time and delivered 1,200 counselling sessions last year. The charity also gave young people access to around 350 education or employment opportunities in the same period. “With our help, we find that more than 80% of young people positively progress or stabilise their circumstances,” said Chiara. For more information please visit www.stepbystep.org.uk
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
Membership at
Chobham Golf Club Join by end April 2018 and receive £100 on your levy card!
ACROSS 7 & 5 DAY MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES YOU WILL ENJOY: ● Full social club membership giving access to the club house 7-days-a-week ● A levy card granting 15% discount on food and drinks ● Gain a Congu handicap and access to competitions, including social golfing events ● Reciprocal tee times at 8 other golf clubs ... and many more fantastic benefits for you and your family
£20 TRIAL ROUND available throughout April and May just quote ‘SurreyGolf’ Please contact the General Manager to book your trial round or for further information email Sarah@chobhamgolfclub.co.uk, call 01276 855584 or visit our website
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SURREY NEWS
GOLF, GUINNESS & OYSTER GATHERING (GGOG) RETURNS TO BURHILL THIS SUMMER Burhill Golf Club, home to two championship golf courses and a host of The Open Championship Qualifying Series, will stage the fourth leg of the Golf, Guinness & Oyster Gathering 2018 when the world series heads to the UK in June this year.
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premium yet fun golf event with an emphasis on networking, the GGOG was established in 2013 by co-founders Grant Muskett and Lord Iveagh – a descendant of Guinness stout inventor Arthur Guinness – who were keen to revamp the traditional model of corporate golf days. Commenting on the event, Muskett said: “Corporate golf days got stale and sterile plus many people, given the economic crisis, found it harder to attend golf days, in general and justify it. Hence we wanted to polish the old model and enhance the offering by targeting c-suites and high net worth individuals, with a focus on less being more and with b2b networking at the centre. “With more than 50 percent repeat attendees each year and clients now wishing to attend other gatherings around the world, the World Series speaks for itself.” The series raises awareness and funds for The Iveagh Trust, which was set up more than 125 years ago by the Guinness family to provide affordable rented housing and accommodation for people on low incomes in the Dublin City area. Initially formed as a stand-alone event which took place each year between 2013 and 2016 at Burhill Golf
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Club, owned by the Guinness family since its opening in 1907, the GGOG world series was established in 2017 as the schedule expanded to include gatherings in Dubai, New York, and Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland. With the event growing in popularity year on year, the series returns to Burhill on Thursday, 14th June following visits to Dubai (15th March), Cape Town (24th May) and New York (5th June). The day will feature a fourball betterball stableford competition (with Guinness & Oysters on the course), as well as a Guinness & Oyster Festival dinner, brunch, networking and prize giving. An invitation-only gathering, London
entry costs £1,500 per team of four, with the winning team qualifying for the World Final at Royal Portrush on the 11th October. Muskett continued: “It’s an opportunity to mix with like-minded people, meet Lord Iveagh and other Guinness family members and friends whilst enjoying great golf, Guinness, oysters and Irish hospitality at it’s very best.” Demand for the event is high and there are only a few places remaining, companies wishing to take part should email enquiries@ggog.golf seeking an invitation.
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
ITERRANEAN JOURNEY.
SURREY NEWS
THE DOWNS TROPHY T he Downs Trophy returns this year after an absence in 2017. Started in 1971, this prestigious 36-hole scratch competition played over Purley Downs Golf Club has attracted strong fields, and recent winners include Ed Richardson (twice), James Heath and Ben Wheeler who have all represented England. Other notables include the indomitable Reg Glading, winner in 1972, and Paul Page who, shortly after competing in The Downs, went on to knock Tiger Woods out of the US Amateur.
Purley Downs is a well-known and established course, opened in 1894 on the chalk downlands overlooking London, the course is rated for superb drainage, firm and fast fairways and excellent putting surfaces. The Downs Trophy was traditionally held in late September or early October, and is often remembered for the challenging conditions regularly encountered over the autumnal equinox! Rarely has the event been played without a breeze. However, the scoring has always been excellent and
the latest official course record of 64 was set in this event in 2014 by Tom Thurloway. As well as The Downs Trophy, the Handicap Salver is awarded to the best nett score over 36 holes, and there are the usual voucher prizes for successful competitors who return the top 3 scratch and nett scores.
For 2018, the Downs Trophy will be held on Sunday 6th May, with the closing date for entry being 6th April. Entry forms available on the Purley Downs website: www.purleydowns.co.uk
SURREY U14 LEAGUE SQUAD ENJOY A WINTER TRAINING BREAK IN SPAIN
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welve of the County U14 squad enjoyed a winter training break at the Mar Menor Golf Resort in Spain, during the February half-term week. Led by County coaches Matt Antell and Tom Bridger, and supported by the U14 Manager Brian Woodham and U13/12 Manager, Peter Millham, the boys were able to develop their golf in some fantastic conditions. Located near Murcia in Spain, The Mar Menor Resort has excellent training facilities, along with a undulating 18 hole course which was a great challenge for the squad. The three days were packed with morning training sessions with coaches, followed by an 18 hole competition in the afternoon, with the format for each round being changed daily to test the boys thought process around the course and team work. The trip also allowed for some great team bonding ahead of a very busy golf season for this bunch of boys.
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The trip was part of the County’s continued drive to develop golf at the U14 level, an age group that has consistently performed well over previous years and produced some outstanding young golfers. Next years return trip is already in the planning!
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
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JUNIOR NEWS
TOM
PLAYER PROFILE
Spreadborough ONE TO WATCH... Age: 18 When did you start playing golf and who was your inspiration? Joined Farnham GC in November 2011. My Dad won a free round of golf and we had a buggy, it was then when I got hooked. What is your current handicap? At the moment, I am playing off +0.8. Do you have a favourite player and who would be in your dream fourball? Adam Scott is my favourite because of his swing and my dream fourball would be Adam Scott, Dustin Johnson and Jordan Spieth. 2017 was a great year for you and what are your plans for 2018? My aim this year is to win a couple of national events and to play as much golf as possible. 18
Are there specific areas of your game that you work on and how do you monitor your results to try and identify any concerns you have? I do my stats through Golf Data Lab. At the beginning it was a pain to do, but know I realise how important it is because you can find out exactly where your game is and what you need to work on. What are your goals for 2018 and beyond?
2012: Joined Surrey Squad and after winning all matches was then picked to play in the Elite Squad. 2016: Junior Captain at Farnham GC 2017: Sussex Golf College, Order of Merit winner College Club Champion Most achieved player Burhill Men’s Open champion Winner Farnham Club Champs,
To win as many national events as I can. Play in the European Amateurs. To turn Pro in the next 2-3 years.
Winner Hindhead Junior Club Champs (3rd year running)
What advice would you give to young players just starting out?
Finally, what is your favourite sports team?
To enjoy it, work hard at your game, believe in yourself and never give up.
I used to be into football but now I just live, breathe and play golf. SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
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SURREY LADIES
JEAN IS ENGLAND GOLF’S VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR Surrey’s Jean Hooper, who goes above and beyond to support the juniors at her club, has won England Golf’s Volunteer of the Year Award, sponsored by Players 1st.
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ean represents about 50,000 golf volunteers in the country and her achievements as junior organiser at Bramley Golf Club, near Guildford, were celebrated at the England Golf Awards, sponsored by Bridgestone. The glittering, black tie event at the Royal Lancaster London highlighted all that’s great about golf in England and guests heard how Jean encourages, educates and integrates the juniors at her club. She’s built up the section to around 70 members, including 12 girls, and gives up countless hours to get them on the course, involve them in competitions, organise matches – and have fun. She even chose her car for its capability to act as team transport! “This came as such a shock to me,” she said of the award. “I do all this because I like doing it, but this is a lovely bonus – and one that I just didn’t see coming.” Jean, a retired teacher, had many nominations from fellow club members and they spoke of her tireless devotion, outstanding organisation, and her passion, drive and enthusiasm. One member told how her interest transformed him from being in trouble at school to becoming junior captain and “the person I am today.” The judges agreed with them, commenting: “Jean is an exceptional person who gives 100% and more. Her contribution to the club and members is immeasurable. She goes above and beyond in everything she does and
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Jean receives her award from Morten Bisgaard, Chief Executive of Players 1st
clearly makes a significant impact on people’s lives for the better.” Jean first became involved with the juniors about 10 years ago, inspired by the opportunity to give back in return for her son’s good experience at the club. “I just like doing it, I like to see them progressing, moving from complete beginners to stunning golfers and I like to be part of what they are doing,” she commented. She’s very keen that the juniors are integrated in the club and praises Bramley: “The club are brilliant, everyone wants to know how the juniors are getting on and the juniors are just part of the club, which is how it should be.” Jean also believes that golf has a great role to play in helping shape youngsters and develop their confidence. “Life is tough for youngsters these days, there are all sorts of routes you can go down and a lot of distractions,” she said. “Golf is a lovely sport, you play
with a variety of people and learn so much from the adults as well as the other juniors. The fact that it’s time consuming is good, it uses up their time, and there’s always company. It’s one of the safest environments you can be in, spend time in and meet people, young and old.” Jean also managed to fit in a term as ladies’ captain alongside her junior duties and she’s an active member, playing off 23 handicap and enjoying the club matches – when not babysitting her two young grandchildren. “The golf club is a large part of my life,” she said. “I’ll keep going until they throw me out! I just love it.” The runners-up for the Volunteer of the Year Award were Sue Robertson of Berkshire, co-founder of the Disabled Golf Association; Richard Ward of Wrag Barn Golf Club, Wiltshire; and Jenny Winch of Test Valley Golf Club, Hampshire.
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
SURREY LADIES
GIRLS’ GOLF IS SET TO GET ROCKING IN SURREY!
(image © Leaderboard Photography)
Girls’ golf will get rocking in Surrey when a campaign to inspire new players is launched in April.
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irls Golf Rocks is all about attracting beginners to have fun, learn a new sport, get active and play alongside friends – with no pressure. The project tees off with free taster sessions for girls aged five to 18, followed by coaching courses with PGA professionals and a fun golf day. Girl golfers from the county squad will act as ambassadors, sharing their enjoyment and inspiring the newcomers. Surrey’s ambassadors had a great boost at one of their training sessions when golf legend Dame Laura Davies and LET professional Annabel Dimmock dropped in to wish them luck. Following the tasters, each of the clubs will offer a five-week coaching course with PGA professionals. Then
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in June the new players will be invited to a fun day with the ambassadors, featuring multi-skills challenges and the chance to play on a golf course. Surrey is one of five new counties to join the national campaign, run jointly by England Golf and the Golf Foundation with U.S Kids providing equipment for the girls. It aims to increase the number of girl golfers from the average of just two full members per club and it’s having a great impact. When Girls Golf Rocks ran in 15 counties last year over 800 girls had a go and more than 730 enjoyed it so much they went on to take coaching courses. Surrey Captain Sally Parrish commented: “We’re looking forward to this initiative and hope that it will encourage a good number of girls across Surrey to give golf a go.” The ambassadors include Grace Bishop from Wentworth who said: “Being an ambassador is a privilege which I will embrace fully to give other girls the chance to feel how I feel about golf.” Ellen Yates from Windlesham wants to help spread the word that golf
is cool and to get new girls playing. She added: “It’s fun to play with new people, people of different levels can compete together and I like to win!” Girls Golf Rocks will launch in Surrey with taster sessions at: Pachesham Golf Centre Sunday 8 April at 13:00 to 15:00 Addington Court Golf Centre Saturday 14 April & Sunday 15 April 10:00 to 11:00 Horton Park Golf Club Saturday 14 April & Sunday 15 April at 16:00 to 17:00 Horne Park Golf Club Saturday 21 April 14:00 to 16:00 The sessions are open to all girls, regardless of whether or not they have an impairment, to try golf in a fun and supportive environment. To find out more and book, visit www.girlsgolfrocks.org and follow the campaign on: @GirlsGolfRocks1 or GirlsGolfRocks
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
SPOTLIGHT
FOXHILLS LOOKS BACK FOR THE FUTURE
Spotlight
Aspiring young golfers always require role models... Back in the day, Paul Casey and Anthony Wall – both multiple winners on the European Tour – took their formative steps at the historic Foxhills Club & Resort in Ottershaw.
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ith two championship golf courses – the Longcross and the Bernard Hunt – a fabulous nine-hole par-three course, a covered, floodlit driving range, coaching aids with state-of-the-art technology and short-game practice areas, the venue is set up for any youngster to make the most of their talent and potential. Under the watchful eyes of coaches who work extensively with county and national squads, all that’s left is for the golfer to show the kind of application and dedication that Casey and Wall have shown in carving out their illustrious careers. The Foxhills Foundation, established in 1986, has brought 300 golfers through its ranks as it enters its 32nd year. Among that list are – you guessed it – Casey and Wall.
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With added vigour and renewed focus on the programme, the class of 2018 were recently selected with 12 young talents joining the ranks. That life-changing opportunity is now there for them to become the best they can be. It is all in their hands. It may well produce a future champion or two – that is the ultimate ambition and finding champions does not happen by accident. But if the next best thing means steady progress and improvement to become good golfers who are passionate about the sport and are active members of the club in the future, it should still be regarded as a success. Alongside some generous support from the Foundation’s official equipment partner Srixon/Cleveland Golf, youngsters aged from 11-18 with varying degrees of ability join
the development, intermediate and advanced categories. There is a clear pathway with target-driven progress but it’s a two-way street. If any of the scholars are seen to be slacking or taking anything for granted, they will be politely shown the door. Free membership at Foxhills and its two stunning championship courses is surely enough for anyone to understand where their priorities lie. And the club’s other outstanding facilities should be able to help with the leisure side of things in those important moments of downtime. Foxhills’ investment in youth starts way before the Foundation too with the Junior FoxStars programme – aimed at encouraging new golfers from the age of five – which sees the participants undertake a 10-week course, starting at
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
SPOTLIGHT
just £120 per person with sessions on both Saturdays and Sundays. Students earn certificates and medals for making their way from levels one to 10 with a mix of tailored instruction, challenges and interactive competitions. Interestingly, the history of Foxhills Club & Resort dates back to the 1780s when mercurial politician Charles James Fox resided at the estate. Something of a bon viveur, it’s unlikely he would have shown the kind of dedication required to make it big in the world of elite golf. His influence lives on amid the natural setting of the resort, which carries all of the outstanding facilities and social inclusion you would expect from a family-friendly country club, without any of the associated snobbery you might sometimes fear.
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The family feel extends to the ownership of the club too. Pam and Ian Hayton purchased the club in 1983, with their son Marc taking over as managing director in 2010 and still running the show. Situated just minutes from the M3 and M25, the 400-acre estate’s centrepiece is the stately 19th-century Manor House, which adds a sense of history to the resort’s extensive stateof-the-art facilities. But there is diversity on two fine golf courses too, which combine parkland and heathland to provide a stern but memorable challenge. Both have staged high-profile events in recent times as the host venue of the PGA Cup last year and a Europro event on the 2018 schedule. The golf club was established in
1975 and recently featured in Golf World’s top-100 golf resorts in UK and Ireland at the heady heights of number 35, with ambitions to claim a place in the top-10. The club also recently retained its coveted gold flag from 59club for its exceptional standards of service excellence. Aside from the golf, the spa and leisure experience at Foxhills recently claimed national awards for its gym facilities, while the options include a 20m indoor swimming pool, hydro pool with massage jets, outdoor Jacuzzi, steam room, two Finnish saunas and a spa garden featuring one of England’s first natural swimming pools. During lazy summer days, there are pleasant outdoor pools to enjoy too. With 11 tennis courts, four squash courts, a wealth of attractive dining and accommodation options, a youth club and crèche facilities for the youngsters, while a weekly cycling club is becoming increasingly popular, capitalising on its status as official resort partner to the Aviva Tour of Britain and home to Team GB’s road race cycling team during the London 2012 Olympic Games. But Foxhills caters for the active just as much it does for those who wish to kick back or indulge in a beauty treatment or two. Non-members and non-residents are welcome on day visits, while there is a range of memberships available, along with accommodation and meeting packages. A new tiered membership structure for those aged 31-40 has also made the club more accessible than ever, while annual adult membership fees start from £1290, which entitles members to full use of all the facilities. Junior golf membership starts at just £475 per year from the age of six, which now also includes access to all the facilities if a parent is a member.
FURTHER INFORMATION For more details please visit: www.foxhills.co.uk
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JOANNE TAYLOR Joanne is originally from Essex and graduated from the University of Birmingham in 2011 with a 2:1 in Applied Golf Management Studies. Since graduating she has completed a post graduate diploma in Sports coaching and is currently working towards completing her MSc. She completed her ASQ Level 3 in Golf Coaching in 2017 and is also a love.golf coach and the lead coach for the Surrey girls U12s.
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MEET THE PRO
Date of birth: 28th April 1989 Current club: Tyrrells Wood Golf Club Turned Pro: 2010 Clubs in the bag: Ping G30 driver, 5 & 7 woods. G30 irons 5-wedge. 50, 54 & 58 degree Ping Glide wedges. Odyssey Big T #5 putter Favourite club in the bag: 50 degree glide wedge, or maybe my putter
At what age did you start playing golf and which club did you start at?
in my golf bag. You would usually find cereal bars or bananas in there too.
I started playing golf at the age of 11 but didn’t join a club and get a handicap until I was 13. I’m from Essex originally so I started playing at Colchester Golf Club which was my local club.
Which Surrey club has the best half way hut?
Who was/is your biggest influence? My dad. I don’t come from a golfing family but my dad has always been my biggest influence. My dad stood for hours on a freezing cold driving range night after night when I was a kid; it wasn’t until I started teaching that I realised exactly how cold it is standing at the back of a range bay in winter! My dad has always been my biggest influence with my golf, my academics or with my career. Which is your favourite Surrey course (apart from the one you are resident at) and why? I played the New Zealand Club last summer and thought it was absolutely beautiful so I’d probably pick there, or Hankley Common Which is your favourite course worldwide? North Berwick. I was fortunate enough to work there during the summer of 2010 as one of my university work placements. I got to play Muirfield, Archerfield and Gullane that summer but would still pick North Berwick as my favourite. What course is on your bucket list that you have not played yet?
What advice would you give to the Surrey youngsters wanting to turn professional? If they were turning pro to coach, I would say find an area of coaching that you’re really passionate about. For me that’s coaching women, I’m part of the love.golf programme which is a fantastic way to coach new golfers. A lot of what I do is geared around attracting new women to the game. What has been your most career defining shot so far? I was playing in a WPGA event in Salisbury a couple of years ago and really struggling with my back. After 9 I had an awful score but decided to carry on and stick it out. My last four holes went birdie, birdie, eagle, par to finish with a respectable score. The shot I remember from this round was the wedge I holed for eagle on the 17th, whenever I’m playing badly now I always remember that shot, it’s a reminder never to give up on a score. What do you enjoy doing off course? I like to go to classes at the gym; spin and yoga are a couple of my favourites. Dream foursome (living)?
I love a links course; Kingsbarns and Turnberry are both on my bucket list
Rickie Fowler, Lydia Ko & Phil Mickelson.
What have been the highlights and low points of your career?
Annika Sorenstam, Arnold Palmer and Tom Watson.
Achieving my ASQ Level 3 coaching certificate and representing the PGA in the R&A Swingzone at two Open Championships would be a couple of highlights. I haven’t had many low points, not yet anyway! What’s your favourite on course energy snack/drink? I drink a lot of water, at least two litres a day so I always have plenty of water
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Beaverbrook
Dream foursome (living or dead)?
If you could change one aspect, rule or thing about golf, what would it be and why? Dress code, I think golf would benefit massively from relaxing dress codes at clubs. It can be such a barrier to new golfers, we’re still seen as a very stuffy sport and that image isn’t helped by the archaic dress codes many clubs still have.
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OTHER NEWS
NEW FOREST GOLF CLUB RELAUNCHES HAMPSHIRE’S OLDEST COURSE FOLLOWING 10-YEAR MULTI-AGENCY PROJECT Bramshaw Golf Club is delighted to announce the relaunch of its 18-hole Forest Course following a multi-agency reconfiguration project to benefit all its New Forest users and roaming livestock.
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he Forest Course, set within the boundary of the New Forest National Park, is Hampshire’s oldest golf course dating back to the 1860’s. The land is owned by the Forestry Commission and is subject to many covenants including local commoners being able to put their livestock out to graze. Bramshaw’s Course Manager, Jason Buckmaster, said “With up to 140 ‘heads’ of cattle put out on the course at any one time, playing on the first tee could, on occasions, be quite a challenge. We had to find an alternative solution for the heaviest grazed areas that would suit all interested parties and enable commoning practices to continue to thrive alongside a leisure activity that is enjoyed by many”. The project to reconfigure the course has taken almost 10 years to come to
fruition and changes include a complete course reconfiguration with a new tee being built, the first new tee on the course in over 70 years, on the fourth hole (old 1st), and shortened to a long par 3. The most significant change was to the fifteenth, replacing the existing par 3 with a new par 4. The reconfiguration has enabled the club to retain both the par 69 and the total course yardage, in excess of 5,700 yards.
Afternoon Tee in the New Forest Enjoy 1 8 holes on one of our two outstanding golf courses - including the oldest in Hampshire followed by an indulgent cuppa and cakes for a perfect golfing day out with friends Manor Course – £39.95 per person Forest Course – £29.95 per person Available Mon – Fri between 3 Apr – 28 Sept 2018* (tea served between 3-5pm) To book your Tee and Tea, call 02380 812214 or email bell@bramshaw.co.uk * Subject to availability. Minimum 3 people per group. Full payment required at time of booking. No cancellations, amends or refunds.
The Bell Inn and Bramshaw Golf Club, Bramshaw, New Forest www.bellinn-newforest.co.uk | www.bramshaw.co.uk
PRO TALK
A REVIEW OF MY FINAL AMATEUR YEAR After graduating Stanford University in June 2016 there was no hurry to turn professional and I made an easy decision to remain amateur for the rest of that year... by David Boote
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here were some cool tournaments for me to play in that summer, the first of was the Arnold Palmer Cup, the college golf version of the Ryder Cup. I was honoured to be selected for the European team and the match v USA took place at Formby golf club. We won 18.5 /11.5 and I managed to secure 2.5 points from 4 matches. My fourball partners were Adrian Meronk and Sam Horsfield, both now playing on the European Tour. After being a medalist at the Division 2 European Amateur Team Championships in Luxembourg and helping Wales win the event with four matchplay wins from four, I was selected for the GB&I St Andrews Trophy side vs Europe at Princes, in Kent. The match finished tied at 12-12 which meant we retained the
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trophy. We were chuffed with the result especially after being 0-4 down following the first morning foursomes! I was able to win the final singles match against Ivan Cantero of Spain on the 18th green, holing a 5ft putt in front of both teams and spectators in the twilight to retain the trophy. As I was last in, everyone was crowded round the 18th green, I knew that my game was important! This was confidence building for what lay ahead. I rounded off that summer with two more great results at the US Amateur at Oakland Hills, Michigan and in the Eisenhower Trophy (World Amateur Team Championship) in Mexico.
The crowds at the US amateur were some of the best I’ve played in. Even to have a man I’d never met before following me round with a huge Wales flag and shouting “come on Wales” whenever I holed a putt or won a hole! I won three close matches and reached the quarter finals before running into a very ‘on form’ Brad Dalke who happened to be celebrating his 19th birthday that day. After watching him birdie the first four holes, I was 3 down and in the end, despite my being 2 under and making only one bogey all match I eventually lost 3&2. It was great to see him reach the final although he eventually lost out
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PRO TALK
to Curtis Luck of Australia. In Mexico. I shot 69-73-68-67 in some of the hottest conditions I’ve ever played in to finish 9th individually. To have a top 10 in such a prestigious event as the Eisenhower Trophy was very satisfying. I entered Tour Qualifying school that year as an amateur, reaching stage 2 before bowing out at Las Colinas in a play-off. This was to become a recurring theme! Q school was a great experience but staying amateur seemed the right decision. My goal now was to make the 2017 Walker Cup team. The 2017 season started in Melbourne with the Australian Amateur and Master of the Amateurs before stretching into Portugal, Spain, Austria and Ireland. I played well in most of the UKs top amateur events but one of the main highlights was the Wales team win in the Nations Cup at Sotogrande. This was the first major International Tournament win for Wales in many years and it was very memorable for our team of Owen Edwards, Josh Davies, Jack Davidson and myself. Jack went on to win the individual medal which would later play a big part in his selection to the Walker Cup team so it was a big event for both of us. My other good finishes were a T4th in the Portuguese Amateur, T4th in the St. Andrews Links Trophy and - T7th in the English Amateur Strokeplay or Brabazon Trophy. One of my best performances was in late May at Walton Heath in US Open
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Sectional Qualifying when I shot a 62 on the New Course. It was a crazy round especially as I had travelled back late the night before from the Brabazon and had little sleep because I was so excited to compete against the pros in the sectional qualifier which I had walked around watching since I was very young. I guess the adrenaline got me, the 62 in the morning with everyone watching was really special. I was nervous in the afternoon but played pretty solidly round the old course to shot a 73. Unfortunately this dropped me into a playoff with 7 pros for 4 spots I didn’t make it through. This meant missing my first Major. I created another great opportunity for myself at Royal Cinque Ports in Final Qualifying a month later where I shot a couple of great scores in the high winds. However, a similar fate occurred, another play off resulted in another narrow miss. Finally, after finishing my amateur summer at the US Amateur Championship in Los Angeles, I got the news I had hoped for. I had been sharing digs with Connor Syme of Scotland and we were sightseeing near the Hollywood sign when we got the call from Captain Craig Watson. We were both pretty happy! Los Angeles Country Club is a special place, We were treated to incredible hospitality from our hosts and the R&A, including great caddies which helped calm the first tee nerves. We
got taken to a filming of The Late Show with James Corden and met President George W Bush. Ultimately we were beaten by a very strong USA side! The memory I will take away most was winning my final singles match against reigning US Amateur Champion Doc Redman. It was a battle which went all the way down the 18th and had a massive following. They said there may have been 5,000 people around the last hole as we walked up the fairway. I closed out the match 1 up, but as a team we had already accepted defeat, not that unusual for GB&I teams Stateside. I turned pro the very next day and for now, the days of trying to impress selectors are over! It’s time to play for myself and I now appreciate that as a professional what I achieved as an amateur means little. I will always cherish the memories from the Walker Cup and with Stanford, Wales and Surrey County Golf teams. My new team is Titleist, Footjoy, Blackstar Golf and Walton Heath Golf Club as their touring professional which I consider to be a great honour. I’m under no illusions that the next stage of my golf journey will be the toughest but I am up for the challenge. It’s now up to me and my team around me to find the best ways of me competing at the highest level.
@davidboote123
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GET INTO GOLF
HOW TO PRACTISE with Lauren Blease Golf can be a very timeconsuming game, so for the average golfer who is also working, it can be hard to find the time to practise as well as play golf. It is vitally important for any golfer of any ability to find the time to practise as not only will it help their technique but also their confidence.
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very practise session done by any golfer should be as efficient as possible and this is especially true for those golfers who don’t have much time on their hands. By practising smarter and having a goal for every practise session, a player will be able to use their time in the most efficient and effective way possible. Below are some easy ways to use your time most effectively when practising:
session and what you want to achieve. This could be working on your driving or pitching or iron shots. Once you have figured that out, you can then focus your practise more on that area. When you are practising the main thing, you want to achieve is quality and not quantity. Once the warm up is complete, you can now start on your dedicated practise. Below are some drills and games that you can play that will help to focus your mind and stop you from just aimlessly hitting balls on the range.
ON THE PUTTING GREEN The main aim of putting practice is to help get a feel for the green and give you more confidence on the short putts. Here are some drills that you can do for your short game.
Games to play:
●● Practise as if it was the course – visualise a hole at your golf course and play it on the range. So, play your tee shot, which could be a driver, to a specific target, then an iron shot to a target and then a chip. Every time you play a shot, you must go through your pre-shot routine and pick out a target. If you miss the target then you have to hit the shot again until you do ●● Target practise – line up 5 balls on your mat and then pick a specific target on ON THE RANGE the range. Once you have done this hit the balls to the target and see how How to start a practise session: many out of 5 lands in the target area. ●● Warm up: raise your heart rate + some If you write it down in a book and keep dynamic stretches it in your golf bag, you can then try and ●● Start with a wedge, hitting some small beat your score from last time chip shots ●● Pitching practise – pick out a target ●● Then move up to pitch shot on the range at 50 yards and 60 yards and practise half and three quarter ●● Once you feel loose you can then start shots with your wedges and learn the hitting some full shots distances you hit each shot During the warm up is an ideal time to be thinking about your goal for the After you have finished your practise
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on the range, make sure you leave enough time to practise your chipping and putting. The short game is the most valuable skill to learn in golf so if you are spending an hour practising, make sure about 40 minutes of that is on the short game.
RANGE DRILL
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By practising smarter and having a goal for every practise session, a player will be able to use their time in the most efficient and effective way possible
PUTTING DRILL
Games to play: ●● Short putting – place 4 balls around the hole in a circle about 3 feet away. The aim is to hole all 4 putts consecutively. Once you have done it from 3 feet you can then move back to 4 feet, 5 feet and 6 feet ●● Long putting – have 4 balls lined up next to each other and roll the first one about 4 feet away and then the next 3 balls have to finish further away than the last When you are practicing your putting, it is vitally important that you treat every putt like you would on the course. So, making sure that you always line your putts up and go through your pre-shot routine.
ON THE CHIPPING GREEN The main aim of chipping is to get the ball as close to the hole as possible to make your next putt as
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easy as possible. So, when you are practising chipping, you want to try and replicate that. Here are some drills that you can do to put yourself under a bit of pressure when you are practising and help with your chipping.
Games to play: ●● Place some tees around the hole 3 feet and 4 feet away. Then place 4 balls just off the green and chip them towards the hole. The aim of this game is to see how many balls you can get within the targets. Once you have successfully chipped 4 balls within 3 feet you can then move further back from the hole and do it again ●● Using tees, make a circle about 4 foot in width on the green, then place 4 balls off the green. The aim of this game is to work on your landing area and roll outs. Start with a SW and chip balls into the target area and see
how far they roll. Then use a PW, 9 iron and 8 iron and repeat the drill All of these games can be recorded in a book and then when you come back to practise again you will be able to see what you did last time and try and beat it. I hope that you find all these drills helpful and hopefully it will make practise a little bit more enjoyable, rather than just standing on a range and mindlessly whacking golf balls for hours. Enjoy practicing!
Lauren is a Assistant PGA Professional at Foxhills Club and Resort and is available for lessons. You can contact her via email or follow her on social media: Email: lblease@foxhills.co.uk @laurenblease89 @laurenblease
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OTHER NEWS
CHOBHAM IMPROVEMENTS BY SWAN GOLF DESIGNS Throughout this winter Swan Golf Designs (SGD) has been working with Chobham Golf Club to improve three more holes, following on from an earlier phase of improvement that was brought into play in spring 2017.
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uring February and March this year the specialist golf contractor Profusion Environmental has been implementing plans drawn up by SGD’s William Swan, Chobham’s golf course architect. This winter’s work has included reconstructed bunkers on the 2nd hole and an entirely new bunker strategy on the signature par-3 15th. However, the biggest change has been to the short 14th, where a greenside bunker has been replaced by a realigned ditch just to the right of the putting surface. This not only serves to better
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protect the green, but will also help improve drainage to the approach and surrounds. Swan has been working on the renovation project at Chobham Golf Club since early 2016 alongside Course Manager Mark Bugler, Profusion’s Contracts Manager Simon Bolton and lead shaper Nathan Smith. Further phases of improvement works are now being planned for next autumn/winter. Other UK renovation projects currently being led by SGD include Barton-on-Sea and Corhampton golf clubs (Hampshire), Huddersfield
and Ripon City golf clubs (Yorkshire), Aberdour and Moray golf clubs (Scotland), Holywood and Bangor golf clubs (Northern Ireland).
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The birthplace of the Ryder Cup
• Listed in Golf World and Golf Monthly as one of Britain’s top 100 hidden gems
Est.
1896
...still turning heads
CAME DOWN GOLF CLUB
Persimmon (noun) - a tree of the ebony family: native to the Eastern United States: a hard wood with pronounced grain pattern: traditionally sourced for only the finest golf clubs: driven close to extinction by cheap mass-produced metal alternatives: unique performance qualities: iconic.
• Memberships available for all ages and abilities • Societies and visitors always welcome
£290/345 Drivers: 9.5°, 11°, 12.5°, 15° £260/295 Fairways: # 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9 £195 Putters: 4 Models (graphite and steel shafts, leather headcover, delivery)
Please call or email for further information Higher Came, Dorchester, Dorset DT2 8NR T: 01305 813494 E: manager@camedowngolfclub.co.uk
www.camedowngolfclub.co.uk
persimmongolf.co.uk tel: 01558 822552
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 1-course Lunch 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
GOLF BREAKS
A WARM WELCOME AWAITS YOU IN
Langland Bay
WALES If you’re looking for legendary golf, golf courses in Wales are undoubtedly among the best in the world. Welsh show stopping golf experiences come in all shapes and sizes, from walking in the footsteps of Ryder Cup heroes and Open-winning superstars at internationally renowned championship courses, to the thrill of discovering one of the many hidden gems dotted around the coast and countryside. 36
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
GOLF BREAKS
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hichever Welsh Golf Course you choose to play, you’ll find the same warm Welsh welcome and unstuffy attitude that’s the essence of what we call ‘golf as it should be’. 2018 is Wales Year of the Sea, highlighting the spectacular shores and crystal-clear waters. For golfers, that means getting to grips with the classic coastal links courses occupying prime seafront spots up and down the country. Get ready for towering dunes, lightning fast greens and unpredictable sea breezes – rugged golf that’s as challenging as it is satisfying. NORTHOP GOLF CLUB Length 6394 • Par 72 Set in stunning 247-acre parkland course and designed by former Ryder Cup player John Jacobs, the Northop
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Golf Club, located in the heart of Northop, Flintshire, is among the most celebrated golfing venues in Wales. Founded in 1994, the Northop Golf Club has hosted numerous professional events, the Welsh PGA Championship, the British PGA Championship, the Welsh Ladies Championship, and the first-ever European Challenge Tour event to be held in Wales in 2004. The members took over the running of the golf club in April 2014 and since then have started to return the course back to its former glory holding the PGA Cheshire & North Wales Trophy in 2015 and again in 2016. Well-known for its fantastic views, brand new clubhouse and top class golf and practice facilities, the course retains all the ingredients that brought about this success; USPGA greens
that result in 365 days a year 18 hole golf, championship tees that provide a stern challenge of the golfers abilities. The club’s extensive tee complexes, however, mean that Northop can accommodate golfers of all abilities. Northop Golf Club is now part of the Gateway to Wales Cluster – play 6 clubs for £100. Passes are available from North Wales Tourism . ABERDOVEY Length 6535 • Par 71 Aberdovey is a classic links golf course and rated as one of the top three courses in Wales. The club was founded in 1892 and its first Captain was none other than Bernard Darwin, a top amateur golfer who played in continued on page 38
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OFF THE COURSE... BRECON BEACONS HORSE RIDING The Brecon Beacons is the perfect place for horse lovers with over 600 miles of bridle paths and tracks. The spectacular scenery and wealth of wildlife create some of the best riding in Europe. There are thousands of acres of hills, moors and fields, criss-crossed by ancient tracks and lanes. You can ride all day, sharing the views with the soaring buzzards. http://www.breconbeacons.org
Aberdovey
BARAFUNDLE BEACH A small bay backed by dunes and pine trees, accessible only by a half mile walk from the nearest car park. Swathes of golden sand and crystal clear waters, Barafundle has been voted many, many times as one of the best beaches in Britain and the world; it’s often likened to a Caribbean beach! This pristine beach is isolated which means no facilities – so everything you take has to come back up over the cliffs. It is a Green Coast and Seaside Award (Rural) award-winning beach. http://www.visitpembrokeshire.com
the first Walker Cup match. Former Masters champion, Ian Woosnam and his Ryder Cup Vice Captain, Peter Baker are honorary members here. The course lies just outside the
popular resort of Aberdovey and features the traditional links in-andout formation and an ever-present wind. The clubhouse was re-built in 1998 and also comprises six twin bedded rooms onsite to compliment the championship course. NEFYN AND DISTRICT Length 3356 • Par 33 Golfers can see the sea from every tee at Nefyn. Choose from either The Old Course, The Point comprising of the front 10 and the old 8 or The New Course comprising of the front 10 and the new 8. 26 holes of unadulterated golfing heaven with views of Snowdonia from every green and on a clear day, over the Irish Sea to the Wicklow Mountains.
PENNARD Length 6267 • Par 71 There is not a weak or a prosaic hole on this short gorse and heather framed, track. Awkward lies and stances are a matter of course and the rugged terrain becomes even more dramatic on the back nine. Beware also, the 40 bunkers, which although not exceptionally large, are very well placed and sometimes lethal! Pennard’s most remarkable hole may be the 351 yard 7th, which heads out to sea from a high, noble tee. The line of flight between the sparse ruins of a 13th century church and more imposing remnants of Pennard Castle, which dates from the 1100’s, presents one unforgettable experience. Pennard is surely among the top 20 greatest courses in the world with a course that emphasises shot values and the strategic considerations required to supply golfing excitement of the highest order. THE GOWER GOLF CLUB Length 6441• Par 71 Minutes from the M4 and Swansea, yet located on the stunning Gower Peninsula, Gower Golf Club offers a whole host of attractions for golfers and non-golfers alike. The facilities include an 18 hole golf course set on rolling countryside, practice and tuition facilities, covered practice bays, wedding suite (with civil licence), overnight accommodation and the ‘Beacons’ restaurant. The 18 hole golf course is the backdrop for all the activities at
Northop Golf Club continued on page 40
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THE ALGARVE’S FINEST COUNTRY CLUB EXPERIENCE Amendoeira Golf Resort, Algarve, Portugal April 2018 - June 2018
A Multi Award Winning Destination Call now to experience the amazing Amendoeira Resort Unlimited golf on Faldo & O’Connor golf courses during your stay
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4 Nights & Unlimited Golf
5 Nights & Unlimited Golf
Bed & Breakfast 4 Golfers sharing 2 bedroom apartment FREE Buggy hire included FREE Resort shuttle FREE Use of golf practice facilities
2 Bed & Breakfast 4 Golfers sharing 2 bedroom apartment FREE Buggy hire included FREE Resort shuttle FREE Use of golf practice facilities
Bed & Breakfast 4 Golfers sharing 2 bedroom apartment FREE Buggy hire included FREE Resort shuttle FREE Use of golf practice facilities
From £349.00 pp
From £459.00 pp
From £589.00 pp
Enquire Now Tel: 0800
2461 737 Email: info@strikegolftravel.com
*Flights, car rental & transfer reservations available. *Terms and conditions apply. Offers subject to availability and change.
Worldwide destination specialists. Contact us for further information. Visit: www.strikegolftravel.com /amendoeira-golf-resort
TM
Bespoke Worldwide Golf Holidays
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GOLF BREAKS
OFF THE COURSE... ZIP WORLD This adrenalin fuelled attraction offers visitors a totally unique experience. Speeds in excess of 100mph can be reached. Velocity has two pairs of zip lines. The experience starts with the ‘Little Zipper’. This is a great introduction and confidence builder with a maximum speed of around 45mph. The journey takes riders into the heart of the historic quarry where the off road journey to the Big Zipper commences. The journey up the mountain in a specialised off road vehicle is magnificent. The Quarry Tour involves a journey through, what was once, the largest slate quarry in the world. Around every corner is evidence of an industrial past which our professional drivers bring to life and they will astound you with their knowledge and captivating stories. Where the Quarry Tour ends the Big Zipper begins. This is a mile long zip line that provides riders with a birds-eye view of the historic quarry and the spectacular North Wales coastline and beyond. www.zipworld.co.uk DINEFWR CASTLE
Dinefwr Castle not only occupies a place of great affection in the minds and traditions of the Welsh people but also majestic hilltop locations above the Tywi valley. The site is forever associated with the princes of Deheubarth, the kingdom in south-west Wales. Over time the castle changed hands between the princes of Deheubarth and gradually evolved into formidable fortresses. It eventually fell to the English Crown from 1287. By the end of the Middle Ages the castle had become ivy-clad ruins. However, Dinefwr received a new lease of life when a conical roof constructed atop the keep created a picturesque summerhouse. It became an eighteenth-century picnicker’s paradise! http://cadw.gov.wales/daysout/dinefwrcastle
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Nefyn and District
The Gower Golf Club
Gower. It was designed by the highly respected Donald Steel and has been overlaid onto rolling countryside to create a spectacular challenge utilising every available feature. It has been the foundation of the enthusiastic and committed members club.
society packages and welcomes membership from throughout the UK and overseas.
ROYAL PORTHCAWL Length 6870 •Par 72 The course has a magnificent setting sloping down to the seashore. The absence of sand hills usually found on links courses enables the golfer to see the sea from every hole and to enjoy memorable views south to Somerset and Exmoor, and northwest across Swansea Bay to the Gower Peninsula. With holes facing into every point of the compass, the player is always tested by the wind and will probably need every club in the bag. The status of the course is sustained by the many amateur and professional events held at the club over the years. ROYAL ST DAVID Length 6629 • Par 69 Nationally and internationally renowned, Royal St David’s is one of Wales’ premier golf courses. It provides a challenging test of golf in a breath-taking setting in the most beautiful and scenic part of the Principality and dominated by the brooding presence of Harlech Castle. Established in 1894, the club is home to one of the finest traditional links courses in the world. The undulating fairways and fast true greens are all that would be expected of a championship links course. It is constantly rated in the Top 50 courses in Great Britain & Ireland and in the Golf Digest Best 100 courses outside the USA and No.1 in National Club Golfers Top 100 Affordable Courses. The club offers ‘play & stay’ and
NORTH WALES Length 6254 • Par 71 North Wales Golf Club is one of the driest courses in the region, they have spent in excess of £60K to ensure they provide all year round golf for our members and visitors. The club is situated in the seaside town of Llandudno with excellent views over the Conwy estuary to Anglesey and the Snowdonia Mountain range. It is a true championship links course, having previously hosted the Welsh Team Championships. You will find the course invigorating and challenging offering an enjoyable experience for all levels of player. The clubhouse offers excellent company and a warm, friendly atmosphere, enjoying panaromic views over the Conwy Estuary and Snowdonia. LANGLAND BAY Length 6026 • Par 70 Langland Bay is just one of several attractive courses in and around the Gower Peninsula that have a distinctive appeal to visitors. In Langland’s case, the distinction stems from its magnificent views, the fact that it is so well kept and that it looks willing to be kind to the holiday golfer. Along with a perfectly maintained course, today’s players have a right to expect a complete golfing experience that goes beyond a simple 18 holes. Langland Bay has a long tradition of meeting this demand in every way, in a setting and style that has earned a long-held reverence in British golfing circles. continued on page 42
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NORTHOP GOLF CLUB Set in stunning 247-acre parkland course and designed by former Ryder Cup player John Jacobs, the Northop Golf Club, located in the heart of Northop, Flintshire, is among the most celebrated golfing venues in Wales.
Northop Golf Club is now part of the Gateway to Wales Cluster – play 6 clubs for £100. Passes are available from North Wales Tourism: T: 0845 450 5885 E: golf@nwt.co.uk www.shop.gonorthwales. co.uk/golf-passes
Societies welcome with packages available to suit all – contact us for details
Gateway to Wales Festivals in 2018 Spring (May 5th, 6th & 7th) and Autumn (Sept 28th, 29th & 30th) full details and entry forms can be found on the club’s website: www.northopgolfclub.co.uk
Northop Golf Club Ltd., Sinclair House, Northop Country Park, Northop, Flintshire CH7 6WA T: 01352 840440 www.northopgolfclub.co.uk
GOLF BREAKS
THE VALE RESORT Length 7433 •Par 74 The Vale Resort has been named Wales’ best golf hotel by an international awards body that recognises excellence in tourism. The four star hotel and leisure venue, in Hensol in the Vale of Glamorgan, was named Wales’ Best Golf Hotel 2017 at the 4th annual World Golf Awards. The two championship golf courses have been host to a number of PGA golf tournaments over the years, and have benefitted from a recent investment of more than £400,000 in its state-of-theart courses and greens equipment. The courses offer a mixture of mature wooded areas, wide and narrow fairways and vast areas of water features. The Wales National, at 7,433 yards off the championship tees, is one of the longest courses outside America, with hole 6 being voted as one of the top 10 par 4’s in the UK. The Lake course, slightly shorter at 6,436 yards, is just as challenging, and aptly named with water coming into play on 12 of its holes. COTTRELL PARK GOLF RESORT Length 6361 •Par 72 Home to one of Cardiff ’s finest golf facilities and largest golf memberships, Cottrell Park Golf Resort has previously been awarded the Welsh Golf Club of the Year award. Set just outside the city in the beautiful Vale of Glamorgan, it boasts 36 holes spread over superbly landscaped grounds; both courses are championship standard and unique in their playability. Facilities include two hi-tech sports
Machynys
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The Vale Resort
Cottrell Park Golf Resort
simulators; with a recent investment of £30K these machines offer the latest tech for golf and other sports simulations. The resort offers these on a complimentary basis to visitors on a golf day or break. In addition are two putting greens, training fairway and undercover driving range. The resort recently opened on-site accommodation in the form of two modern self contained apartments. Golf Breaks start from £79 per person. MACHYNYS Length 6400 •Par 72 Machynys is a Nicklaus designed 7121-yard modern links golf course, 5* premier health club & spa, featuring first class food in Machynys Bar and Brasserie, complete with golf academy and driving range. Machynys offers a friendly, professional welcome to all visitors who are encouraged to utilise its 5-star facilities, including Monks Health Club & Premier Spa, Machynys Bar & Brasserie with its wraparound
Creigiau Golf Club
sun-deck, or the 21 bay academy and driving range not forgetting of course the world class Nicklaus Championship Golf Course. CREIGIAU GOLF CLUB Length 6063 •Par 71 Situated just five minutes from Junction 34 of the M4 Creigiau is regarded as one of the top parkland courses in the Cardiff area. It has 18 fantastic challenging, picturesque holes and measures just over 6000 yards. It delivers an enjoyable golfing experience for all standards of golfers. The club also offers a three bay undercover practice facility, a practice chipping area and putting green. Since 1993 the course has continued to be developed with new greens being built, bunkers and tees added to enhance the golfing experience. Creigiau has now matured into one of the finest member’s clubs in the Cardiff area and is a favourite venue with societies and visitors.
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Golf In South Devon
Introducing a revolutionary golf practice cage, ideal for where space is limited:
THE CONCERTINA GOLF PRACTICE CAGE
• • • • • • • • •
Superb Sea Views Bars & Restaurants Snacks, Lunches, Dinners Golf Practice Area Extensive Grounds Reduced Fee Golf at DWGC Heated Indoor & Outdoor 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
The Concertina Cage is 3m square when extended for use, folding to 710mm when stored (including support posts). • Folding section 40 x 20 x 1.5mm box section steel • Rigid section 40 x 40 x 3mm hollow section steel • Galvanised steel frame powder coated optional extra • Supplied complete with a 2.3mm x 20mm square net and a 3m x 3m heavy duty baffle net • Can be bolted directly to a wall without the need for support posts. Folded net width 340mm Can be supplied as a fixed version Golf tee mat and frame available separately
T: 01354 610353 E: contact@demsports.com www.demsports.com
CREIGIAU GOLF CLUB
Telephone 01626 868000
Mount Pleasant Road, Dawlish Warren, Dawlish Devon EX7 0NA
www.langstone-hotel.co.uk
Host club of Welsh Ladies Open Strokeplay Championships 2018
ABERDOVEY GOLF CLUB Championship Links Golf Since 1892 Creigiau is a beautifully manicured, easy walking, parkland course situated in Cardiff on the north easterly edge of the village of Creigiau. It presents a good challenge for all ages and standards of golfer with tight tree lined fairways which reward accurate tee shots.
For more information on membership or visiting Creigiau Golf Club, please contact the Club Manager, Richard Brookman, on 02920 890263 option 5 or visit creigiaugolfclub.co.uk Creigiau, Llantwit Rd, Cardiff, CF15 9NN
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Green fees from £25 per person Stay & Play from £70 per person Book online at www.aberdoveygolf.co.uk or telephone 01654 767493
Aberdovey Golf Club www.aberdoveygolf.co.uk Tel: 01654 767493 Email: sec@aberdoveygolf.co.uk
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
Golf Ad.qxp_Layout 1 30/01/2018 10:21 Page 1
DO YOU WANT A CAREER
WORKING IN GOLF?
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
If you’re finishing school or college, take a look at the range of Golf Coaching & Management courses at Myerscough College. For school leavers we have full-time two-year A-Level equivalent Level 3 Diplomas. At university level we offer Foundation Degreesin Golf Coaching and Performance or Golf Management, with progression to an Honours Degreetop-up. Myerscough has excellent facilities, with a testing nine-hole golf course, two indoor golf academies, overseas training camps and the opportunity to work on PGA European Tour events. There’s residential accommodation for 750 students.
SATURDAY 14TH APRIL 2018
PRESTON, LANCASHIRE
Gower Golf Course, Cefn Goleu, Three Crosses Swansea SA4 3HS • www.gowergolf.co.uk
MyerscoughColl
@My_GolfNews
@MyerscoughGolf
MyerscoughGolf
BASINGSTOKE GOLF CLUB Enjoy Basingstoke’s most established members golf club • Classic James Braid parkland golf course • We welcome societies and visitors • Special Winter rates for societies. Contact us now quoting this advert.
MALONE GOLF CLUB Stunning parkland golf course located just 5 miles from Belfast city centre
Welcome to the The Golf Shop at Basingstoke Golf Club
• 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.
Green fees are most welcome from Monday to Friday, with our friendly golf team looking forward to welcoming you and ensuring you have a memorable time during your visit to our wonderful course.
For more information contact Carl Crown (PGA Professional) or a member of our golf team on: 01256 351 332
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
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
The Basingstoke Golf Team are leading stockists for Srixon, Cleveland and Ping, offering excellent custom fit and after sales services to all visitors.
www.malonegolfclub.co.uk
Tel: 01256 465990 (Office) 01256 351332 (Professional) www.basingstokegolfclub.co.uk
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GOLF BREAKS
YOU’RE GOLFING WHERE...?
...LUXEMBOURG!
Luxembourg might be one of the ‘capitals’ of Europe; it might be home to billions of Euro’s in strangely named banks, but a home to great golf courses? Indeed it is! Words & images: Charles Briscoe-Knight
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GOLF BREAKS
Luxembourg City
O
nly an hour from the City of London by plane, keen players can be out of the office on a summer evening and on the tee there in two hours. Flying from user friendly London City Airport, to an un-crowded Luxembourg airport, takes an hour, and with easy border controls, you can be ‘on the tee’ at Kikuoka CC a further hour later. It’s just nine miles away! Our journey exploring what the Grand Duchy has on offer for us golfers, started though in the northern Ardennes area. Famous for it’s forest – and to war historians – as the area that saw the infamous Battle of The Bulge. Clervaux is a historic and charming town nestled in a scenic valley and home to an interesting war museum and the iconic Family of Man exhibition curated by Edward Steichen at the UNESCO heritage listed Clervaux Castle. However, up on the plateau above the town lies their spectacular golf course. The clubhouse and hotel are as one, offering magnificent views over the course and the surrounding countryside. Outside, quite a switch-back ride awaits you. Meandering amongst tall trees, dipping uphill, down dale, and over streams and past lakes. The front nine presents an excellent challenge, some continued on page 48
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
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GOLF BREAKS
9th hole Clervaux Golf Club
of the doglegs are tricky, none more so than the ninth, which finishes in front of the club’s terrace and has the uphill second shot needing three clubs more than you’d think! The back nine is remarkable in its need for strategy, the main example of this is the 11th – a long 556yd par five. Water snakes along the right side of a massively left to right sloping fairway, and a well protected and elevated green. Making a seven we thought we’d done well after five perfect blows to make the green! The ‘piece de la resistance’ has to the 16th. Another steeply downhill dogleg, with a blind drive into a U shaped fairway, an
2nd hole Golf Club de Luxembourg
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approach to a tiny green protected by a stream across the front and a pond on the left. Be straight, be accurate! At 6,656yards Clervaux might not be overly long. But after 18 holes we knew we’d been on some heck of a course. Little wonder the Luxembourg Federation and the R & A use it for their annual International Amateur Championship. Whilst Clervaux is in the north, Luxembourg is smaller than Kent, so getting to the gorgeous Golf Club de Luxembourg, near Junglinster, was quick and easy, thanks to ‘sat nav’. On entering the club, an impressive drive between the fairways, ends in the
7th hole Clervaux Golf Club
courtyard of a beautifully renovated 18th Century stately farm house. A grander setting it is difficult to imagine. Out on the course the test is accuracy. Naturally length always helps, but the fairways are tight for the most part, and generally all obstacles are in front of you – apart from, ironically, the first hole, where a members’ local knowledge would help determine your aim for a blind landing! The second, a 499 yard par five, is a hugely satisfying hole. Downhill all the way, with a small lake on the right, an approach shot (if you go for it in two) to a small green, protected by a lake left, and a bunker short right and greenside trap on the right. Our par here felt like a birdie! Whilst the opening holes are relatively open and exposed to the elements, crossing back under the local ‘B’ road to the last, more mature, continued on page 50
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
WELCOME TO A WORLD APART 5* Las Colinas Golf & Country Club, Alicante, Spain April 2018 - June 2018
European Tour Qualifying School Second Stage Venue 2011-15 Call now to experience the amazing Las Colinas Resort All packages include 2 Hours FREE Access to the Miguel Angel Jimenez short game academy
2 Nights & 2 Rounds
3 Nights & 3 Rounds
4 Nights & 4 Rounds
Bed & Breakfast Las Colinas Residences 4 Golfers sharing 2 bedroom apartment Free Resort Shuttle
Bed & Breakfast Las Colinas Residences 4 Golfers sharing 2 bedroom apartment Free Resort Shuttle
Bed & Breakfast Las Colinas Residences 4 Golfers sharing 2 bedroom apartment Free Resort Shuttle
From £199.00 pp
From £289.00 pp
From £379.00 pp
Enquire Now Tel: 0800
2461 737 Email: info@strikegolftravel.com
*Flights, car rental & transfer reservations available. *Terms and conditions apply. Offers subject to availability and change.
Worldwide destination specialists. Contact us for further information. Visit: www.strikegolftravel.com /las-colinas-golf-and-country-club
TM
Bespoke Worldwide Golf Holidays
.
GOLF BREAKS
EXPLORE LUXEMBOURG
18th hole Kikuoka Country Club
seven holes, we were keen to play the rather schizophrenic 13th. As a par three, it plays at an easy downhill 166yds. As a dogleg, par four, with an uphill second shot it plays entirely differently, and is far more testing. Ideal for major competitions. Finishing the round, both the 16th – another dogleg par 5 (494yards) – and the well protected 18th (381yards) are superb tests. No wonder our colleagues on Germany’s Golf Journal have given Golf de Luxembourg a four star ranking. Rejoining the clubhouse post round, the food, beer (good Lux and Belgian brands!) and hospitality are magnificent. Even our ham and cheese club sandwich had to be the best we’ve tasted – anywhere! A short drive – further south, in the Moselle (wine) region, lies the aforementioned Kikuoka Country Club – a name conjuring up something with Japanese roots. It was founded in 1991 by Mr. Kikuoka. A sparkling venue with the 74-room Mecure hotel
9th hole Kikuoka Country Club
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and spa on site, acting as the clubhouse as well as a leisure complex. Kikuoka is the jewel in the Lux crown. The layout is so good it has regularly featured on the PGA European Challenge Tour. Indeed, Henrik Stenson won over this test back in 2002. Designed to make the best use of several levels of land, and undulating by nature, the player never feels like reaching for the oxygen mask. Yes, there are many slopes – the most intriguing is perhaps the walk down the 18th but, the majority of the holes play relatively ‘flat’. Water plays a strategic role on the second with a massive risk reward tee shot, on the ninth with two ponds on the right of the tee shot landing area, on the 10th in the front of the green, and 14 needs careful management off the tee. The 18th is a fascinating hole, maybe quirky, is a better adjective. A double dogleg, a pond on the right of the second ‘leg’ and water all round the left, right and back of the green. We only just managed to keep our balls in play but still came away with a double. If you can’t be good, be lucky! The spa and pool are lovely post-round luxuries, and again the Luxembourg cuisine served in their excellent restaurant is sublime. Their TV sports bar features live Champions League, and PGA Tour golf! Luxembourg might not be a golfing alternative to the Costa’s, but it is a sure alternative to Le Touquet, Hardelot, Holland and Germany. It’s easy to access, great value and extremely stylish.
TRAVEL Luxair from London City Airport www.luxair.co.uk GOLF CLUBS/GREEN FEES Golf de Clervaux – Green fees: 18 holes e55. Deals: 3 nights, 3 dinners, 3 green fees e360 www.golfclervaux.lu Golf de Luxembourg – Green fees: Weekday e70. Buggy hire e30 www.golfdeluxembourg.lu Kikuoka– Green fees: e80 weekdays, e100 weekends. Buggy hire: e35 www.kikuoka.lu HOTELS Clervaux GC and Hotel – Double room: weekday e130, weekends e145 www.hoteldugolf.lu Kikuoka Country Club/ Mecure Hotel – Double room: e70 www.mercure.com OTHER ATTRACTIONS/SIGHTS Luxembourg City info www.visitluxembourg.com Clervaux Castle www.destination-clervaux.lu/ Battle of the Bulge War Museum and Family of man exhibition www.steichencollections.lu SOME RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS The Victoria at Chateau d’Urspelt (near Clervaux) www.chateau-urspelt.lu Pavilion Desom (near Kikuoka CC) www.desom.lu/fr/le-pavillon Um Dierfgen, Cote d’Eich, Luxembourg City Centre www.umdierfgen.lu
SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
GOLF BREAKS
Bordeaux and South-West of France – golf ’s untapped destination Just two hours by train from Paris and 1:30 flight from three London airports and the 2018 Ryder Cup, Bordeaux is the ‘next big thing’ in golf tourism in France.
T
hink Bordeaux and you think wine, sunshine and the beaches of the Atlantic Coast. Now, it’s time to think about GOLF. Some of the best courses in France are within easy reach of Bordeaux, making it an ideal and undiscovered alternative to Spain and Portugal. There are three showcase courses within easy reach of the Bordeaux city centre, including Golf du Médoc Resort (winner of Best Golf Course in France at the 2016 World Golf Awards) tucked among the vines of the Medoc, it features the 18-hole Les Châteaux, designed by Bill Coore, and the 18-hole Les Vignes, a Rod Whitman creation. There is now the new 5-star Tom Doak-designed Grand SaintEmilionnais, the region’s newest course. Located near the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of SaintÉmilion, this is an exceptional course
that unfolds in a valley fringed by centenary oak trees, and framed by world-famous vineyards. Further south, Moliets, Seignosse, Hossegor and Basque golf courses like Chiberta and Le Phare in Biarritz provide challenging courses that are only two hours from Bordeaux. Whether it’s a short break or the trip of a lifetime, Bordeaux ticks all the boxes. Greens & Grapes arrange bespoke golf packages throughout south-west France, and farther afield on request such as La Rioja region in Spain. They also have a 2018 Ryder Cup packages that provides the chance to play Le Golf National in Paris.
“As an Irish golfer I’ve been very surprised to discover a wide variety of golf courses here – many with international reputation. But the difference here is that green fees are not overly expensive given the standard. And the weather is fantastic almost all year round” explains Lucius McPhilemy, co-founder of Greens&Grapes.
FURTHER INFORMATION Visit www.greensandgrapes.com or contact Lucius McPhilemy on 0203 695 8953
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SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
Wish you were here Ufford Park Woodbridge
1 night Golf Breaks from only £98* per person
includes complimentary use of the Health Club with it’s gym and pool.
Looking for the perfect all year round venue for your golf break? Set in the heart of Suffolk and located just off the A12, our 18 hole, par 71 course is ideal for the beginner or the experienced player. Book your tee time online, visit the on-site AmericanGolf superstore and practice your swing on our 2 tier floodlit driving range, all before you even set foot on the lovingly cared for, award-winning, top winter course. *Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability.
t 0844 847 9489 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road | Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW
Looking for a fantastic experience on your next society or away day? Why not come and play Waterlooville Golf Club, home of the 2016 English Women’s County Finals?
We welcome groups from 12 to 100+ players. Waterlooville Golf Club is one of Hampshire’s friendliest clubs and you are sure to have a great experience, from the warm welcome, to the fantastic championship course right through to the great food after your game. If you haven’t played it, put it on your bucket list! The friendliness of the welcome, the presentation of the course and the quality of the greens were all outstanding. Andra, Gloucestershire Team Captain
GOLF DA YS FROM A S LITTLE AS £31.5 0
To book your day at Waterlooville Golf Club please call 023 9226 3388 or email admin@waterloovillegolfclub.co.uk
FASHION
PING LAUNCHES SS18 PERFORMANCE APPAREL COLLECTION KNOWLES SWEATER V-neck, heather colour blocked sweater with natural thermal and moisture moving properties. Sensor Platform: Sensor Warm Fabric: 100% Merino Wool Price: £80
DELTA JACKET A lightweight, windproof and waterresistant performance softshell jacket, which features a stretch mesh lining and zip fastening chest vents.
DEE POLO COOLMAX® ALL SEASON sleeveless polo with button fastening ‘V’ shaped placket and rib collar with tipping detail. Also features permanent moisture moving, quick drying and stretch properties.
Sensor Platform: Sensor Warm Fabric: 92% Polyester, 8% Elastane Price: £80
Sensor Platform: Sensor Cool Fabric: 47% Polyester Coolmax, 48% Polyester, 5% Elastane Price: £45
SHELBY POLO Jacquard performance polo shirt, engineered from a diamond textured fabric that utilises moisture moving, quick dry and stretch properties.
CLARA SHORT
Fabric: 87% Polyester, 13% Elastane
Mechanical stretch pleated short with a ‘fragmented’ print design. Design highlighted by pleated side detail and a scorecard pocket, as well as moisture moving properties.
Price: £50
Sensor Platform: Sensor Cool
Sensor Platform: Sensor Cool
Fabric: 100% Polyester Price: £65
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SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
BRADLEY TROUSER Slim leg pant featuring a Tekfit® stretch waistband for added comfort of up to 2". Additional features include mechanical stretch, inner waistband gripper tape and moisture moving properties. Sensor Platform: Sensor Cool Fabric: 100% Polyester Price: £60
Ultra flat design Wheels fold in automatically One-fold system
SIENNA POLO COOLMAX® ALL SEASON polo with button fastening ‘V’ shaped placket and rib collar with tipping detail. Also features permanent moisture moving, quick drying and stretch properties. Sensor Platform: Sensor Cool Fabric: 47% Polyester Coolmax, 48% Polyester, 5% Elastane Price: £50
HENDRICK SHORT Heathered short, constructed from mechanical stretch fabric and featuring a Tekfit® stretch waistband for freedom of movement and increased range of motion. Sensor Platform: Sensor Cool Fabric: 100% Polyester Price: £60
QUINN POLO Colour blocked baby pique polo shirt, including rib collar with contrast tipped edge and piping on the back shoulder panels. Performance properties include moisture moving, quick dry and stretch. Sensor Platform: Sensor Cool Fabric: 96% Polyester, 4% Elastane Price: £35
ALL NEW - BLADE IP The new BLADE IP from BIG MAX is now even easier and faster to fold thanks to a revolutionary new flat-fold technology. The wheels fold in automatically, as if by magic, taking you half the time to assemble and disassemble. The most compact trolley on the Golf market is now even easier and faster to use. BLADE IP - now flat AND fast.
To see the full collection visit: https://ping.com/
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www.bigmaxgolf.com | office@golftech.at facebook.com/bigmaxgolf
PRODUCT NEWS
THE SHOT SCOPE V2 WITH AUTOMATED PERFORMANCE TRACKING Shot Scope V2 is the only GPS watch with fully automated performance tracking, making it one of the the smartest watches in golf. V2 provides GPS distances to the F/M/B of greens and hazards on a sleek LCD screen. All the while automatically gathering data so that you can master your game using Shot Scope’s detailed post-round
analysis platform, containing over 100 Tour-level statistics. Shot Scope’s Performance Dashboard features interactive graphs and aerial maps to give golfers an immersive golfing experience on demand. Knowing your game is the only way to truly improve and, with V2, you get to know every single shot. Available at www.shotscope.com
LOOK OUT FOR THIS SEASON’S ‘MUST HAVE’ NEW PRODUCTS... BIG MAX LAUNCHES NEXT GENERATION BAG RANGE The AQUA Hybrid is a category defining golf bag that delivers the best of both Cart and Stand bag technology. The unique flat base and leg lock system are perfect for securing to a trolley or buggy, sitting as perfectly square as the most robust cart bag. With seven spacious waterproof pockets, 14 way divider
Aqua Hybrid – £229.99 56
and a host of neat features, the Hybrid has all the function of the best cart bags. But take the hybrid out on its own and it transforms to a stylish lightweight stand bag. At just 2.3kg the Hybrid is a breeze to carry, delivering the best of both worlds, however you choose to get it round the course.
Aqua Sport 2 – £239.99
Aqua Tour 2 – £269.99
The AQUA Sport 2 is the second generation of the brand’s most successful cart bag. With a 14 way, 9.5 inch organiser top and full length dividers, the Sport 2 will accommodate and organise a full set with ease. Seven spacious pockets, oversize putter well for large putter grips and an unloaded weight of just 2.4 kg. The AQUA Tour 2 is the ultimate bag for the golfer that has all the gear and wants to keep it 100% dry. The Tour 2 has an enormous capacity for storage combined with a quite unbelievable weight of just 2.7kg. Nine spacious pockets, glove and towel holder, umbrella holder and oversize putter well for large putter grips provide ample storage options. For ease of club movement, the Tour 2 has a 10 inch, 14 way top leading down to individual dividers. www.bigmaxgolf.com SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
AQUA Sport 2
DUCA DEL COSMA RELEASES EXCITING NEW SHOE RANGE Premium Italian brand offers lifestyle designs for on and off course wear The Italian fashion brand Duca del Cosma that pioneered ultralightweight spikeless golf shoes more than a decade ago, is releasing an eye-catching new range of premium golf shoes for Spring 2018 that can be worn both on and off the course. Bold, classy, elegant and sporty – the brand philosophy is represented in a distinctive collection for men and women that takes its inspiration from award-winning Italian design combined with amazing attention to detail. The latest range features stylish options incorporating new designs
The new BIG MAX AQUA Sport 2 combines practical organisation and modern design with ultimate waterproof performance, available in 9 colour options. All BIG MAX AQUA Bags have a 10,000mm waterproof rating, so that even the most ambitious golfers can expect their golf equipment to be dry after 18 holes. The innovative twin strap and umbrella positions give you the freedom to use the bag in your own way. The New DROP-STOP System by BIG MAX guarantees 100% waterproof material, sealed seams and waterproof zips. Play with optimal protection and modern style.
and colourways, plus state-of-theart shoe technology. Leading styles for men include the Camelot (White/Lemon), Kuba (White/Red/Green) and the La Spezia (White/Orange); while the women’s collection also boasts top-of-the-line shoes, including the Palm Springs (White/Taupe), Porto Ercole (White/Sand) as well as the Olbia (Gold).
WATERPROOF UNDER TOUGHEST CONDITIONS!
www.ducadelcosma.com
VOLVIK EXPANDS ITS TOP-SELLING VIVID BALL RANGE Volvik, the market leader in multicoloured performance golf balls, is expanding its highly successful VIVID golf ball range with the introduction of two more balls offering even greater spin and feel – the new VIVID Lite and VIVID Soft. The VIVID Lite is a true multiperformance golf ball. It offers golfers with a clubhead speed between 50-80 mph a mid-high trajectory and improved visibility – resulting in straighter ball flight and accurate dispersion off the tee. The VIVID Soft is an ultra-soft golf ball designed for players with swing speeds between 75-95 mph looking for more shot control. The powerful spin rate enables golfers to shape their shots with SURREY GOLF MAGAZINE
exceptional accuracy and a perfect mid-high ball flight trajectory. RRP £39.99 www.brandfusionltd.co.uk or www.volvik.com facebook.com/bigmaxgolf 57 www.bigmaxgolf.com | office@golftech.at
PRODUCTS
FOR THE BEST PROTECTION UNDER THE SUN, IT’S GOT TO BE TECHNIBLOCK
W
hen heading out onto the course, most golfers will check to ensure they have everything they need in their golf bag – balls, tees, clubs – but how many think about sun protection, particularly on a cloudy day? However, shade on the fairway is hard to find so it’s no surprise that golfers are at high risk of skin cancer and sunscreen should, therefore, be an essential in every golf bag. Techniblock has been developed specifically for the sports market by the MD of a world-class pharmaceutical company in
Johannesburg, who is also an avid golfer. It’s available in every pro-shop in South Africa and has now been introduced to several UK pro shops in Surrey, including Foxhills, Richmond, Woking, West Sussex and Tandridge. Although available to consumers online at www.techniblock.co,uk Techniblock is not on sale in any other retail outlets, providing an opportunity for your pro-shop to offer this quality product on an exclusive basis. We provide next day delivery, low minimum order quantity and a compact branded counter display unit. Buy 24, get one free or buy 48 and get two free, valid until 31 May. Working with the PGA to highlight sun awareness and safety on the golf course, Techniblock is a light non-greasy spray providing lasting,
breathable protection for all skin types. Delivered in a handy 75ml leak-proof can it provides an invisible, protective shield against the sun’s harmful rays in a sweat-resistant, hypoallergenic formula that’s quick and easy to apply. For more information on sun safety and pricing, contact us on 07769 943200 or 01462 701857 or email sales@techniblock.co.uk
TECHNIBLOCK SUNSCREEN THE BEST PROTECTION UNDER THE SUN Exclusive retail offer for your pro shop Low minimum order quantity (24) any SPF combination FREE next day delivery Not available in any other retail outlet Branded counter-top display unit and supporting POS literature Promotes sun safety on the golf course
Contact us on 01462 701857 or sales@techniblock.co.uk to place an order 58
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PRODUCTS
CNC MILLED BESPOKE INSOLES DIRECT TO YOU B espoke Insoles help you feel great on the course with custom-made foot orthotics, they can help promote better balance providing a more a stable platform from which to execute your swing, possibly giving you more power and control over your shots.
Bespoke Insoles will provide direct support to the underside of your feet thus preventing the collapse of your medial longitudinal arch and over pronation, they can help alleviate lots of foot, knee, leg and back pain. No need for a medical.
HOW IT WORKS Please visit www.bespokeinsoles.com select the Shop Bespoke Insoles menu, the golf insoles option and follow the instructions. Once you have checkedout, a unique foot impression kit will be posted to you, simply press your feet into the foam box supplied and return. Delivery is free on all orders and they are dispatched in 3 to 5 working days. ●● Use high-quality materials for shock absorption, impact reduction, ●● 3d Laser scanning of your foot impressions
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●● CNC Milled exclusively for your feet, with your name engraved on the underside ●● Support your feet in their correct anatomical position, improving your performance ●● Reduces the movement, friction and odour inside your shoe.
To order now visit www.bespokeinsoles.com, email info@bespokeinsoles.com or call 01623 232869
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ENJOY THE OUTDOORS WITH ERNEST DOE POWER
WE HAVE 1000’s OF PRODUCTS TO HELP YOU CREATE & ENJOY THE PERFECT GARDEN There’s so much more in your local country store... We’re online too at: ernestdoeshop.com ESHER Portsmouth Road, Esher, KT10 9AD Tel: 01372 471009
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FREE BUGGIES THIS SPRING to say thanks for voting us ‘Wales’ Best Golf Hotel’ There are few places in the UK that offer golfers the range of facilities and as many inspiring golf holes as the Vale Resort.
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D,B&B, 36 holes + FREE buggy# from £119pp* Quote SPRINGBUGGY at time of booking.
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B&B + 18 holes from £69pp*
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Society Days from £35pp*
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143 bedroom hotel 2 championship golf courses Wales’ largest spa AA Rosette restaurant Floodlit driving range Clubhouse and Pro-Shop Short play practice areas
Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY *Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability on dates in April - June. #Free buggy applies to first round.
SG.03.18
Tel: 01443 667800 | www.valeresort.com
MAX
Faster Face
Engineered to increase flexing and deliver a powerful sound and feel, the forged T9S+ face produces hotter ball speeds for more distance.
Š PING 2018
G400 G400 MAX
7,474
7,832
6,587
6,000
7,636
7,720
8,000
9,263
10,000 9,902
Both the G400 Max and G400 drivers have combined moment-of-inertia ( MOI ) measurements exceeding 9,200 [G-CM 2 ], elevating forgiveness levels to new heights and resulting in the tightest dispersion in golf. That means more consistent distance and accuracy, round after round. Visit a PING Fitting Specialist or PING.com today.
Moment-of-inertia (MOI)
MOI to the MAX *
Competitors * MOI comparisons as of January 1, 2018
G400 MAX
G400
A great fit for players looking to add distance through stability and forgiveness.
Streamlined shape increases speed throughout swing. Also available in G400 LST and G400 SFT.
G400 Max (460cc) compared to G400 (445cc)