ISSUE 201 | Feb 2018 | Tel: 01329 834360 | Email: peter.teetimes@gmail.com | www.teetimesgolfmagazine.com
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2 TEE TIMES | February 2018
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TEE TIMES 3
Can Rory get back his Majors mojo inINSIDE Atlanta?
Reflecting on a marvellous Masters: Justin Rose, Hampshire’s favourite golfing son, made us so proud as he played his role in one of the tightest but most gentlemanly showdowns in the history of the event
AND THE GOLF SPORTSMANSHIP
Rory: My Green Jacket wedding wish – Page 4
WOOSIE:
Philip’s second spell as Hants PGA skipper – Page 16
Always more big names in Tee Times
GEORGIA ON MY MIND WINNER IS. . .
It is out of bounds to describe four-time Major champion Rory McIlroy as stuck in a slump.
True, he has slipped nine places to number 10 in the world. True, he struggled with a recurring rib injury and took a break from competition last year. True, he missed several cuts and went through 2017 without a single tournament win for the first time in nearly 10 NORTH Hants Golf Club in Fleet will have years. But this 28-year-old is still the man who was to find some more space in its Justin the first European to win three of the four Rose Room Finally, a to record the continuing Majors, joining Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods exploits of the county’s favourite place in as the only players to do so by the age of 25. golfing son. the golfing The Green Jacket is the only Major to elude Hall Roomof willFame be found for mementoes of the him, and in April McIlroy will be making his Masters -2017 Page 4 to be placed alongside those fourth attempt to complete the set and a of Rose’s U.S. Open triumph in 2013 and his career Grand Slam. Olympic Golf Gold. And if he finally drapes that famous bit of green material round his shoulders, he will Tiger says: But while Rose was pipped at Augusta by be hunting down Nick Faldo’s record of six From now, Sergio Garcia, the inevitable disappointment Majors. for his fans was counterbalanced by a I’ll be my display of skill and sportsmanship which was He has set out his stall for a run at the own coach Masters by committing himself to play in at a credit to both men, and to a sport which least seven events kin the run-up to Atlanta. - Page 4 still prides itself on honesty and fairness. McIlroy said on his website he would start his Yes, the final round between these two Ryder campaign with two European Tour events in Cup titans was bound to be emotional. Rose the Middle Eas: the Abu Dhabi Championship President was edging his way towards a second Major, pulls off was trying to secure his first on and Garcia athegolfing very day which would have been the 60threbate birthday of his hero, Seve Ballesteros. tax
WOODS:
TRUMP:
We meet the 10th tee hell hound Bus Pass Golfer – Page 16
Hampshire Jenny’s hadlifetime been inundated with approaches from potential caddies.–McIlroy accolade Page and 16 Diamond, who
Dedicated to completing the set: McIlroy will have his fourth tilt at winning the iconic Green Jacket and Dubai Desert Classic. He then plans to switch his focus to the PGA Tour, playing in five tournaments in six weeks, starting at Pebble Beach this month. Last year was marked by low points off the course, too, as he split from long-time caddie JP Fitzgerald, replacing him with Harry Diamond, who stays at his side for the new campaign. After appointing Diamond on an initial shortterm basis in August, McIlroy said that he
was a top amateur player in Ireland, have been friends for many years. Was this So McIlroy is happy with his caddie and his golf’s clubs, happy with his private life, and happy worst with his recovery from injury. All in all, he injustice has set himself up for the perfect run-in to Georgia. Let the sparks ever? fly again. Rory’s next target: to beat Nick Faldo’s – Page 24 record of six Majors.
PLUS 2 Course Reviews this month! Bird Hills Golf Centre ‘ It (the medical check) revealed I had a slight heartbeat irregularity - page 14-15
…but my odd heartbeat is ‘no big deal’
-ButPage 20 emotion for spectators of the overriding the final round was the way these two Europeans fought the fight.
GARCIA: Sergio
In the final round, they were toe-to-toe rivals tops off but not opponents, supremely competitive Masterful yet gentlemanly, acknowledging each other’s skills with a knuckle-touch a nod. 12ormonths
- Page 20 • Turn to Page 4
Rory McIlroy is playing down fans’ concerns about his health after a medical check revealed he has a minor heart irregularity.
called a flat or inverted T wave. It’s really not that big of a deal and nothing to worry about, apart from getting an annual check -p, like youmate: should doand anyway. Romsey Golf Club Well played, Masters At the end pagethere 19-22 The former world number one, 28, said in an interview with the on theDaily course, Rose and Garcia werebeen a big reaction to it in the media -which ‘ I feel there’s really sporting gentlemen Telegraph that the abnormality is ‘not that big of a deal’ and may be shouldn’t be. I’m fit and healthy.’ linked to a viral infection he contracted 18 months ago. He insists he So McIlroy is turning his attention from medical matters towards an is now fully fit. achievement which would really lift his heart: a career Grand Slam The four-time major winner cut short his 2017 schedule in order to at Augusta. undergo treatment on a rib injury, which he says has now healed. Only five golfers have done the Grand Slam during their careers: ‘ Like anything, the deeper you dig the more likely you are to find Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and something,’ he said. Tiger Woods.
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February 2018on| pages TEE TIMES ROMSEY GOLF CLUB - Book an afternoon Golf Society for £25pp - Read our 4 page Course Review 19-223
HALL OF FAME AT LAST Finally, Ian Woosnam has been called into the golfing Hall of Fame. The former world number one, wearer of the Masters Green Jacket and Ryder Cupwinning captain has been given a place in the pantheon of the sport’s greats. Three years ago, the battling Welshman was furious enough to be left out of the list that in anger he threatened to quit the game altogether. After not even being included on the 16-strong shortlist in 2014, Woosnam made no secret of his disappointment, writing on Twitter: ‘After seeing the results of the World Golf Hall of Fame, I think it’s time to say goodbye to golf and retire.’ But all was forgiven when, before the induction ceremony in New York, he said: ‘I’m very excited and very emotional the closer we get. Top 50 ‘ To be inducted into the Hall of Fame with the greatest players ever, it’s a big thing.’ Woosnam, 59, universally known as Woosie, climbed to the top of the rankings in the week he won the Masters in 1991 and remained there for 50 weeks. He represented Europe in eight consecutive Ryder Cups and captained the side to a record nine-point victory at the K Club in 2006. Lee Westwood, who played alongside Woosnam in the 1997 Ryder Cup and was captained by him in 2006, told PA Sport: ‘It’s fantastic for Ian. When I started playing in 1987 he was dominant in world golf. Pretty much won everything. He was one of the people you wanted to go out and watch. ‘ I remember he hit the first shot I ever saw in a Ryder Cup. I went to The Belfry (in 1989) and we walked across the first fairway and came to the fifth green. ‘ He must have been going in with a five or six iron, it started out right and drew in to three feet. I thought ‘I’m not going to turn professional yet’. He was just so impressive to watch. ‘ A former Masters champion, former world number one, Ryder Cup player and a great Ryder Cup captain. He’s done pretty much everything there is to do in the game and I’m delighted he’s being inducted.’
Overlooked earlier, Woosie the Welsh pocket rocket joins the roll call of golfing superstars
Successful skipper with the 2006 Ryder Cup
The little Master’s 1991 magic: ‘It’s just that moment and you’re in that time, and I think this is what it’s all about, trying to hole that putt. I would say that’s my best performance and my best shot.’
Woosie joined Henry Longhurst, Davis Love III, Meg Mallon and Lorena Ochoa Reyes in the 2017 class of inductees. He was introduced by nine-time Major Champion Gary Player. Woosnam said: ‘Gary was one of my heroes and I thought he would be one of the perfect guys to speak for me. ‘ He’s my sort of height and he’s tenacious; he’s just a really good friend and I thought he would be perfect for me.’ Woosnam won 29 European Tour titles in a career spanning nearly 30 years before joining the European Senior Tour in 2008, when he went on to win the John Jacobs Trophy for topping the Order of Merit in his first season, yet his crowning achievement came in 1991. Just a week after becoming World Number One, Woosnam was paired with Sir Nick Faldo, the man he pushed off the top of the Official World Golf Ranking for the first round of the Masters Tournament. Both carded rounds of 71, five shots behind the leaders. He moved just behind Tom Watson after 36 holes, and then took a one-stroke lead into the final day at Augusta National.
Spain’s José María Olazábal staked a claim for the Green Jacket and was level with Woosnam as he stepped onto the 18th tee, but a bogey saw him fall a shot behind both the Welshman and Tom Watson. Watson, a two-time winner of the Masters, missed a 20-foot putt which may have forced a sudden-death play-off as Woosnam had a seven-footer to win. As Olazábal watched on, his chance of victory out of his hands, Woosnam stepped up and holed the most important putt of his life, becoming the first Welsh Major Champion. ‘ For me, the putt on the 18th green at the Masters stands out the most,’ he said. ‘ It’s not about hitting all the shots. I had a seven-foot putt, and I can remember the times I used to be on the putting green on my local golf course and think ‘this is for the Masters, this is for the U.S. Open, this for The Open’. ‘ It’s just that moment and you’re in that time, and I think this is what it’s all about, trying to hole that putt. I would say that’s my best performance and my best shot.’
Receiving the Masters Green Jacket from Nick Faldo
’With the greatest players ever’: Hall of Fame pride
Tiger: I’ll be my own swing coach, thank you
Chris Como and Woods: split after three years together
4 TEE TIMES | February 2018
Tiger Woods has split with swing coach Chris Como after three years together. The 14-time Major winner, who has been struggling with back injuries, said he will work alone this year.
Woods returned from his latest injury setback in December with four rounds at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas, his first tournament since withdrawing from competition with back spasms.
‘ Since my fusion surgery I’ve been working hard to relearn my own body and golf swing,’ said the 41-year-old. For now, it’s best for me to continue to do this on my own. I’m grateful to Chris Como for his past work, and I have nothing but respect for him.’
In a statement to the Golf Channel, Como said: ‘Tiger is ready to have an incredible next run in his career. I’m eager to watch what will be one of the most exciting sports comebacks of all time. I will continue to be a close friend and resource to him.’
February 2018 | TEE TIMES 5
Pride of South African Golf and Star of the Golden Triangle The visit of a friend, recently returned from a holiday in South Africa bearing a gift was the thing that spurred the writing of this piece. For his gift was a bottle of excellent white wine, Chenin Blanc, bearing the name BIG EASY, which as everyone knows is the affectionate title bestowed upon Ernie Els. The wine brought back memories of my own times in South Africa and of the many times I have seen the silky swing of Big Ernie, a swing that gave rise to the very apt pseudonym.
In 1999 the concept of Ernie Els wines was born, and with the help of award winning winemaker Louis Strydom, they produced the maiden year 2000 vintage of Ernie Els, a classic Bordeaux blend. The marketing similarity between the wine and Ernie’s classic golf career were apparent. The intention from the outset was to focus on delivering a quality product that could hold its own in the company of the worlds finest. Naturally the plan was to start on a small scale, ensuring that the product, the packaging and the presentation, marketing and distribution were of a standard that would be in line with the vision of a premium product. During 2004, a beautiful property on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain was chosen and the home of Ernie Els wines was established and given an identifiable home. The site could not have been more logical, for the vineyards that produced the fruit that had provided all the previous vintages had been grown in that locality. With the acquisition of the land, the wheels were set in motion to create one of the most exciting venues within the South African wine industry , a significant contributor to the world wine spectrum. Ernies dream of owning a winery and vineyards had come full circle, the reality of which was evident at the official opening of Ernie Els Wines attended by family, friends, politicians, sports stars and industry representatives from all over the world, celebrating in the true Els manner, spending a relaxed evening with live music and barbequed food, smoothed with samples of the home produce. Located on the slopes of the Helderberg Mounbtain within the famous Golden Triangle of Stellenbosch, the majority of the vineyards are north facing with rows running in an east-west direction, resulting in the optimal utilisation of sunlight. The vineyards are approximately 45 hectares (111 acres) and the classic vines grown include Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. The Mediterranean climate of the Cape region is ideal, with approximately 650 mm rainfall per annum combined with the hot summers and the close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean giving cool sea breezes which regulate and keep temperatures low; which in turn extends the ripening period. The soils contain scully formation with oak leaf and clay components on top. Deeper within there considerable amounts of granite, providing excellent terroir for the specific varieties of grapes grown. As he has done with his golf ensemble, Ernie had built himself a highly professional team to support his dream of producing the best wines and presenting them to an appreciative world, especially his winemaker and Managing Director Louw Strydom. His vineyards have become a major tourist attraction in the region, and are said to rivel the Napa Valley in the United States. With a restaurant called Big Easy Winebar & Grill who would not be tempted. Michael Rees
Elsewhere in this issue the legendary status of Ernie Els is fully explored, so this is a very different article is about another of his passions outside of the game of golf. It is a subject that is common to many other golfing superstars, and one that success on the fairway means they can afford to partake in ventures in the terroir. Ernie Els has been involved in the production of quality wine since the early 1990’s. He had a dream, driven by the same ambitions that drove his golf career, to produce the best quality wine, and to do so he began his quest in one of the very special locations in South Africa, the Stellenbosch.
6 TEE TIMES | February 2018
Information and Content Courtesy of Ernie Els Winery: www.ernieelswines.com
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February 2018 | TEE TIMES 9
LEGENDS OF THE GAME...
...ERNIE ELS - THE BIG EASY
South Africa has a tradition of producing world class sportsman, for many years cricket and rugby were the predominant suppliers of their heroes, that was until Gary Player, that golfing dynamo burst on to the scene by winning The Open Championship in 1959 at Muirfield and then became the first overseas winner of The Masters two years later. There was a little time before another star from the African continent burst onto the scene, but when he did, he made an impact. Ernie Els began to generate awareness and interest from the pundits with top ten finishes in The Open and the US Open in 1992 and 1993, before his first major success in 1994, when America was in the midst of the euphoria surrounding the repeated successes of European golfers. After finishing eighth in The Masters won by Jose Maria Olazabal in April 1994, he provided the second major win for the European Tour by winning the US Open Championship at Oakmont, beating Colin Montgomery and Loren Roberts in a three way playoff. He was followed in the major triumphs by Nick Price who had double success, firstly in The Open at Turnberry and then in the USPGA at Southern Hills in Oklahoma. It proved to be a great year for the non-American contingent battling for major honours. However the respite would be short-lived, for within three years he was to have a new and formidable nemesis, when Tiger Woods burst onto the scene. Theodore Ernest Els was born in Johannesburg South Africa in October 1969. As a youngster he was an outstanding athlete, impressive at soccer, rugby, cricket and tennis. At the age of 13 he won he won The Transvaal Junior Tennis Championships, and just a year later he was a scratch golfer. He was tutored by his father Neels, no mean golfer himself, and duly won the World Junior Championship in San Diego California. In 1987 he was awarded the State Presidents Award, and the following year was given his full Springbok colours.
10 TEE TIMES | February 2018
In 1989 Ernie has his first real success, winning the South African Amateur Strokeplay, and turned professional the same year. His first win came on what is now the Sunshine Tour, and he duly won the seasons Order of Merit for 1991-92, and the following year recorded his first international success winning the Dunlop Phoenix in Japan. More success was to follow, with his first major trophy, winning the US Open in 1994, which helped to earn him PGA Rookie of the Year. He took his clubs all round the world, winning the Dubai Desert Classic, The Toyota World Matchplay, which he defended successfully the following year, and won his first event on the PGA Tour, then returned to South Africa where he won twice more. With his six foot three inch physique and his fluid swing, he soon earned the nickname “The Big Easy�.
if not impossible to level criticism at a golfer who has a record which reads, 4 Major titles, 2 World golf Championships, 4 World Matchplay, 19 PGA Tour wins, 28 European Tour wins, 1 Japanese Tour, 16 Sunshine Tour and 19 other titles.
1997 was a career year for Ernie, he won his second US Open title and multiple wins in America and Europe, a story that was to continue for the following two years. In 2002 the European Tour made him an Honorary Member in recognition of his tremendous record; it was also a year when he was runner up in three of the majors, (The Masters, US Open and The Open) plus seven runners up spots, a great show of consistency despite extensive travel around the world. Between 2003 and 2005 the golfing arena was dominated by the Big Five, Tiger Woods, Vijay Singh, Phil Mickelson, Retief Goosen and Ernie Els, between them they swept the board. In 2005 Ernie injured his knee in a sailing accident, that took him out of action, and although he returned to winning ways, his plans to challenge Tiger, were never fully realised. Despite a phenomenal catalogue of success, he, like Greg Norman is considered to have not been as successful as his talent deserved, but in top level sport nothing is guaranteed. In my view it would be extremely difficult,
Even though he is still actively pursuing his playing career on the PGA Tour and European Tour, he has established a very success golf design organisation. He has completed courses in Mauritius, China, Dubai, Malaysia, South Africa and the USA, and famously redesigned the West Course at Wentworth. A project that received some initial criticism, but which is now well admired. Current projects under construction are in Bahrain, Bahamas, Hawaii and at Gardener Ross Golf & Country Estate in his home country of South Africa.
It was no surprise when he was elected into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2011, due recognition for consistency which earned him European Tour Order of Merit and Player of the Year a total of five times. A career that was so rich in success was touched with sadness when he son Ben was found to be suffering from autism. Since his diagnosis Ernie and his wife Liezl have been active in charities devoted to that condition. The Els for Autism Pro Am raises many thousands of dollars, and his support for The Renaissance Learning Centre, a charter school for autistic children is ongoing. His charitable work extends to The Ernie Els and Fancourt Foundation, which supports under privileged but talented children to progress in golf, and he is an enthusiastic supporter of the Gary Player Charity events around the world.
As he approaches the time when he will grace the Seniors Tour, he is still battling, with his current target being to qualify for The Masters in April 2018, since his exemption for winning the Open in 2012 has now run out. Whether he qualifies or not he will be present, for he has an Honoured Guest Invitation to attend. He is a true gentleman of the fairways, and will join the roll of legends with every justification. Michael Rees
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Interested in Joining? in Joining? Interested Joining? Interested inin Joining? Here’s Interested some reasons why you should Here’s some reasons why you should Here’s some reasons why you should Here’s some reasons why you should
course and and practice practice facilities; facilities; Challenging, picturesque golf course Challenging, picturesque course and practice facilities; Challenging, picturesque golf course and practice facilities; Challenging, picturesque golfgolf course and practice facilities; friendly competitions competitions for for all all A good mix of competitive and friendly abilities; A good of competitive and friendly competitions AA good mix of and friendly competitions for all good mixmix of competitive competitive and friendly competitions forfor allall abilities; abilities; abilities; popular social social events events and and Warm, friendly atmosphere with popular excellent catering; Warm, friendly atmosphere with popular social events and Warm, friendly atmosphere with popular social events and Warm, friendly atmosphere with popular social events and excellent catering; excellent catering; excellent catering; Competitive membership rates with with concessions concessions for for juniors, juniors, golfers up tomembership age 29, the over 80s and military personnel; personnel; and military Competitive membership rates with concessions juniors, Competitive membership rates with concessions forfor juniors, Competitive rates with concessions for juniors, golfers to age over and military personnel; personnel; golfers upup to age age 29,29, thethe over 80s80s and military golfers up to 29, the over 80s and military personnel; professional available available to to give give individual individual A dedicated respected professional equipped Pro-Shop togive meet all ordedicated group lessons, and aprofessional well equipped Pro-Shop to meet all A dedicated respected professional available to individual dedicated respected professional available to give give individual AA respected available to individual your golfing needs. or group lessons, and a well equipped Pro-Shop to meet or group lessons, and well equipped Pro-Shop to meet meet allall or group lessons, and aa well equipped Pro-Shop to all your golfing needs. your golfing needs. your golfing needs. First club club to to First win Hampshire’s win Hampshire’s First club First club to to two premier Inter two premier Inter win Hampshire’s win Hampshire’s club knockout club knockout two premier Inter two premier Inter competitions in competitions in club knockout club knockout club knockout the same year (2017) the same year (2017) competitions competitions in in competitions in same year (2017) thethe same year (2017) the same year (2017) County Sevens Sevens County (Gentlemen) (Gentlemen) County Sevens County Sevens County Sevens & & (Gentlemen) (Gentlemen) (Gentlemen) Stoneham Cup Stoneham & & Cup & (Ladies) (Ladies) Stoneham Cup Stoneham Cup Stoneham Cup (Ladies) (Ladies) (Ladies)
For more more details, details, please please call call For Richard or Vivienne on For more details, please call For more details, please cal please call Richard or Vivienne on 01252 337272 Vivienne onon Richard Vivienne Richard oror Vivienne on 01252 337272 or visit visit 01252 337272 337272 01252 337272 or www.armygolfclub.com visit oror visit www.armygolfclub.com - 2018 2018 membership offer offer www.armygolfclub.com www.armygolfclub.com -www.armygolfclub.com membership and apply online online - 2018 membership offer membership offer - 2018 membership offer and apply and apply online and apply online online
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Ambassador Georgina is a finalist
Is this a pointer to Ryder Cup glory? In what he hopes will be a good omen for this Ryder Cup year, captain Thomas Bjorn led Europe to victory over Asia in the EurAsia Trophy in Malaysia. Europe won eight of the final day’s 12 singles to beat Asia 14-10 and retain the trophy. Bjorn’s side were behind 6½-5½ going into the final sessions but asserted their dominance by winning eight of the opening nine singles matches. Belgium’s Thomas Pieters scored the winning point as he beat South Korea’s Byeong-hun An by one hole. Bjorn said: ‘I’m delighted the way these 12 came out. They have been fantastic all week. We had a really good group and we worked hard. ‘It was mostly up to them last night and they wanted to go out and show what they are
Thomas Bjorn and his winning Europe team
really about and they certainly did that.’ Europe started off with wins from Alex Noren, Rafa Cabrera Bello and Tommy Fleetwood before Poom Saksansin cut the deficit by beating Paul Casey. But Henrik Stenson got Europe back on track with a 2&1 win over Hideto Tanihara, while team-mates Bernd Wiesberger and Alex Levy also won their matches. Pieters had gone 4-up in his match and, despite An drawing level, he holed a sevenfoot putt at the 15th to regain the lead and then won the next hole to secure the trophy.
The END OF THE WORLD IS NOT NIGH!
‘It’s always nice to get the winning point,’ said Pieters. ‘I got off to a good start, then played pretty poorly during the middle, then made a couple of very good birdies.’ Tyrrell Hatton picked up Europe’s eighth win, while Matthew Fitzpatrick halved his match after Kang Sung-hoon holed two birdies. Asia, captained by Arjun Atwal, won the final two matches as China’s Li Haotong and Yuta Ikeda of Japan beat Paul Dunne and Ross Fisher respectively.
Left, Justin Thomas: ‘Prepared for the end’. Above, the alarm notice.
Under the mattress and pray for us: golfers panic on Twitter
Millionaire golfers were among the many who panicked and thought that a ballistic missile was about to hit Hawaii.
can do. If it’s my time, it’s my time. I was really scared there for probably three or four minutes.’
of the Cold War. State Governor David Ige apologised to Hawaiians, saying an employee had pressed the wrong button.
World number four Justin Thomas said he prepared for the end after an alert, warning of an imminent missile strike, was wrongly issued.
The initial message caused widespread panic and fear in Hawaii, coming amid growing concern over North Korea’s missile and nuclear programme. Hawaii is the closest US state to North Korea.
The only drama which turned out to be genuine was the golf itself. American Patton Kizzire came through a marathon six-hole play-off to win the Sony Open.
Thomas was among players at the US PGA Hawaii Open in Honolulu when the warning was issued. It The turned out to be a false alarm but a second message confirming this took 38 minutes to arrive. ‘I sat on my couch and opened up the sliding door and watched TV and listened to music,’ said Thomas. ‘I was like there’s nothing I
Other players hit Twitter.John Peterson tweeted: ‘Under mattresses in the bathtub with my wife, baby and in laws. Please lord let this bomb threat not be real.’ Another asked: ‘Pray for us’
The 31-year-old beat James Hahn, who was in the clubhouse at 17 under after hitting a final round of 62, before Kizzire closed with 68. Kizzire became the tour’s first two-time winner in 2017-18 as he sealed victory at the parthree 17th.
In December, the state tested its nuclear warning siren for the first time since the end
A Dorset teenager is one of four ‘inspirational young people’ in line for England Golf’s Young Ambassador Award. Georgina Wrixon, 18, of Ashley Wood Golf Club, Blandford Forum, will be at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London later this month along with the three other finalists. Georgina started playing golf when she was 14 and quickly became passionate about the game – and about encouraging new players, especially girls. She represents Dorset and competes nationally, while also inspiring newcomers to the game as an ambassador for the Girls Golf Rocks campaign and for the charity, the England Golf Trust.
She has trained as a Level One coach and supports PGA professionals at a number of local clubs. When she was junior captain Georgina raised enough money to install junior tees at her club, encouraging more youngsters to pay the full game. Georgina is aiming for a career in golf and after very successful BTEC results is now studying for a degree in sports science specialising in golf. ‘ We are very proud of Georgina’s achievements and feel she deserves to be recognised for all the effort and passion she has for playing and promoting the game of golf,’ said a nominator. England Golf Chief Executive Nick Pink commented: ‘These four inspirational young people are quite amazing. They are sharing their pleasure in golf in the best possible way and are helping us to spread the message that golf is a great game for all.’ The other finalists are: Megan Field and Jess Pinnell, both volunteer coaches at Hatchford Brook Golf Centre in Sheldon, Birmingham, and Liam Ridgill, club captain of Drax Golf Club near Selby, North Yorkshire.
My maiden Tour win… thanks to my caddie wife England’s Chris Paisley was searching round for a caddie when his regular bagman went on holiday. He found one close to home, in the shape of his wife Keri – and went on to claim the first European Tour victory of his career. The 31-year-old world number 289 had six birdies in a six-under final round of 66 in the South African Open in Johannesburg,
12 TEE TIMES | February 2018
finishing three shots clear of home favourite Branden Grace. ‘ She never put a foot wrong,’ said Paisley. ‘It’s the first time she has ever caddied and I just can’t thank her enough. ‘ My regular caddie is getting some stick but I just can’t say enough about how good a job Keri has done this week and just in life in general.’
Paisley’s win lifted him to a career-high ranking just outside the top 120. ‘I just can’t believe it,’ he added. ‘I played out of my skin. I didn’t think I was capable of playing that well to be honest.’
Winning couple: Paisley and his stand-in caddie
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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
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To book your day at Waterlooville Golf Club please call 023 9226 3388 or email admin@waterloovillegolfclub.co.uk
Forest Course strides back to the future This Spring, the oldest golf course in Hampshire is taking an exciting step forward, across the landscape where William the Conqueror once hunted. The Forest Course at Bramshaw Golf Club, in the New Forest, has been remodelled to take the design back close to the original 1865 concept. The course keeps all the character of its open aspects and rolling heathland, but now incorporates a new hole built to replace the 15th, becoming a par 4. The opening tee has been moved and the old first hole has been reshaped as the 4th, shortened to a par 3. The whole redesign makes the most of the natural landscape of meandering streams around the course. Any player who likes golf with a truly traditional flavour will relish the changes to the Forest Course’s natural scenery of humps, hollows and challenging situations.
Added to the irresistible charm is the presence of the New Forest’s residents exercising their legally-protected right to roam. A deer emerging from the trees, or a pony mare shepherding her foal across a fairway, will continue to give the Forest Course a special and unqiue appeal. The changes, which come fully operational on 31st March, have been a long time in the planning. Being on land with protected historic status, the course could not be changed without the approval of several authorities, including Natural England, the Forestry Commission, New Forest verderers and the New Forest National Park, which oversee the New Forest care and maintenance. The Forest Course is a complete contrast to its Bramshaw sister, the manicured parkland Manor Course, which opened in 1971. Some of the famous New Forest ponies strolling outside The Bell Inn Hotel, which dates to 1782. Visitors and golfing societies to either of Bramshaw’s courses do not have to look far for fine dining or accommodation.
14 TEE TIMES | February 2018
General Manager, Andy Rideout said: ’Having two courses with such different characters is a real benefit for members and visitors. The changes to the Forest Course are all part of our aim to be the best proprietary golf club in Hampshire, as well as the oldest.’ Call 023 8081 2214 or visit bramshaw.co.uk for more information
Bramshaw Golf Club is in the Ne w Forest, designated by Wi lliam the Conque ror in 1079 as his priva te hunting land. Two of his sons died here: Prince Ric hard ‘of pestilent air’, an d King William II, above, killed by an arr ow fired by a fel low hunter.
NEWLY RENOVATED RENOVATED FOREST FOREST COURSE COURSE
REOPENING GRAND REOPENING Hampshire’s oldest golf golf course course in in the the heart heart of of the theNew NewForest Forest Friday 30 30thth March March 2018 2018 Pre-opening Pre-opening Day Day Open Open to to all all golfers. golfers. Entry Entry costs costs£15 £15and andincludes: includes: refreshments refreshments individual individual stableford stableford competition competition discount discountvoucher voucherfor forThe TheBell BellInn Inn Tee Tee times times from from 10-3pm. 10-3pm.£3 £3optional optionalsweep. sweep. To To book book your your place, place, call call 023 023 8081 8081 3433 3433or orvisit visitwww.bramshaw.co.uk www.bramshaw.co.uk Groups may be filled to make 4 players per group as required. Groups may be filled to make 4 players per group as required.
stst Sunday 1 Sunday 1 April April 2018 2018 The The Bramshaw Bramshaw Easter Easter Meet Meet Play Play for for the the Sir Sir Oliver Oliver Crosthwaite-Eyre Crosthwaite-EyreTrophy, Trophy,enjoying enjoying36-hole 36-holeopen openpairs pairs BB stableford played on both The Manor Course and the historic Forest Course. BB stableford played on both The Manor Course and the historic Forest Course. Includes: Includes: breakfast refreshments breakfast refreshments pairs pairs BB BBstableford stablefordcompetition competition nearest nearest the the pin pin on on all all par par 3’s 3’s prizes prizesto tobe bewon! won! Open to all golfers (amateur & professional). Open to all golfers (amateur & professional). Application forms can be found online or requested from the office. Application forms can be found online or requested from the office. Entry limited to 120 pairs and must have an active competition handicap (CDH number required). Entry limited to 120 pairs and must have an active competition handicap (CDH number required). Max Handicap: 21 Men, 27 Ladies. Max Handicap: 21 Men, 27 Ladies.
T: 023 80813 433 T: 023 80813 433
E: golf@bramshaw.co.uk E: golf@bramshaw.co.uk
www.bramshaw.co.uk February 2018 www.bramshaw.co.uk
| TEE TIMES 15
Abama, Buenavista And Lots More…
With a wonderful year round climate, it is no surprise that Tenerife has become one of the most popular golf destinations for the golfers of Northern Europe. The opportunity to play golf in good weather, the average temperature is 23 degrees, on a superb collection of golf courses, is just four hours travel by air, and has a modern airport to receive visitors close at hand. The golfers from countries where golf is a non starter for part of the year have flocked to this island haven, with many purchasing properties that still seem to be shooting up in the south of the island, where the majority of the courses are located.
The Ritz Calrton Abama Golf Spa and Resort is situated on the road to Los Gigantes, it is impossible to miss, for the five star hotel and resort stands out like a beacon, a salmon pink structure that oozes quality as soon as you approach. The clubhouse is set on the hilltop overlooking the hotel, with spectacular vistas down to the sea, and there you will be welcomed and prepared for a golfing experience. State of the art electric buggies, with onboard GPS systems, fresh fruit and your own personal water cooler, and a well stocked golf shop to ensure there is nothing to detract from the round to be played. If your game needs a tweek, there is an academy with highly qualified coaches, a five hectare practice area and a three hole academy course. The eighteen hole course is the design of Dave Thomas, who has brought fifty years of golf experience to create a course that is one of his best. It rises up the south face of the foothills under the watchful eye of snow capped Mount Teide, rising to 315 metres at the highest point, and looks out over the distant island of La Gomera, a spectacular sight across the aquamarine sea, as you play down to the sixth green. It meanders over 160 hectares of lush sub tropical terrain, in stark contrast to the harsh volcanic landscape which surrounds the course. It features twenty two lakes, linked by impressive waterfalls, white sand bunkers, and over twenty five thousand palm trees, and Thomas has made marvellous
16 TEE TIMES | February 2018
use of the changes in elevation to create innovative and challenging holes. A fine example is the 9th, an approach from an elevated landing area to a green set down under a cliff and defended by a water hazard. There is a fascinating variety of par three’s. The 4th is over a lake, which contains an abundance of fish bubbling around the edge, providing an ample food locker for the two resident herons patrolling the banks, seemingly impervious to the passing golfers.
The back nine is set on the lower slopes, and starts with a par 5 to test the driving skills, under the lee of the hotel. There are six lakes on this hole, seven if you count the one adjacent to the tee, they are strung out on the left and the fairway swings around them to a green nestling alongside the largest, add several bunkers and that’s the challenge. Holes 11 to 16 are all subject to the threat of water, strategically placed lakes come into play on this mixture of par three’s and short par fours that test course management rather than length, even the last two holes have water crossing the fairways. In summary, a fine golf course in immaculate condition, with large fast true greens, which give a wide variety of pin locations, some of which are very testing indeed. It is no surprise that this course has already hosted a number of Tour events, and had visits from US Presidents and celebrities from around the world. Sergio Garcia has held a Pro Am Tournament at the resort in support of his foundation, which he set up in memory of his colleague Maria Garcia-Estrada, who died of a rare form of cancer in 2005. In stark contrast to the splendour of Abama, there is a charming little nine hole par three course near the town of Guaza, a fun place to sharpen the short game and very reasonably priced. It is not necessary to book a tee-time, but the Los Palos Golf Centre has the busiest practice ground I have seen, perhaps an indication that beginners can practice shots and then play a short course to test the results.
Buenavista Golf , which was designed by Seve Ballesteros, sits majestically on the rugged rocky coastline in the north west of the island, and is forty five kilometres from the resorts of Las Americas and Los Christianos. The name could not be more apt, for this is a truly beautiful location, and even tourists stop in the carpark to look out of the course and the sea crashing onto the rocks below. The course was opened in 2003, and within a year had hosted the Tenerife Open, a European Ladies Tour event. The Tour returned after the first sampling, further evidence of the quality of the venue. The isolated location had been a minor deterrent in the past, but the 115 bedroom hotel was opened close to the 3rd hole, it was acquired and operated by Melia Hacienda Del Conde, an adults only facility encompassing high quality swimming pools, spa and fitness facilities and a top quality restuarant, has solved the problem of accommodation for this island paradise.
The course is made up of two loops of nine holes with two lakes fed by a waterfall and containing fountains, sitting adjacent to the 9th and 18th greens, just below the imposing ultra modern clubhouse set atop the hill. It has an unusual combination of holes, six par three, six par fours and six par fives and at 6019 metres is not too long to be enjoyable, the elevated tees even providing a touch of encouragement to try for the green in two on the downhill par fives.
It is impossible to play without stopping to take in the views that seem to be reminiscent of Pebble Beach, or the Mid Ocean Club in Bermuda. Waves crashes onto the rocks, forcing huge random fountains of surf high into the air. The front nine, beautifully presented and blessed with abundant plant and wild life in no way prepares you for the back nine. The scenery in every direction is awesome in it’s beauty, and Seve has made maximum use of the changes in elevation to ensure that every tee is a viewing station. The 10th and the 13th are both par fives played downhill to the ocean side, and the fifteenth green is closest of all to the rising fountains of seawater and surf. The finishing holes will be cast in the memory banks, a run back along the clifftops and a demanding par five to finish, a golfing extravaganza and a feast for the eyes. To complete the day, you can take the short drive down to the seafront, where there is a delightful little restaurant, with a large terrace and canopied with fishing nets to provide shade from the mid-day sun. With an excellent fish menu and with the ocean views to dream about, it is the perfect conclusion to a golfing excursion, well worth the drive.
In addition to the three loops at Del Sur, there is another eighteen hole course that runs practically adjacent, Amarilla Golf is within walking distance from some of the hotels. Golf Del Sur is located near to the airport, and since it opened in 1987 it has been a regular favourite with visiting golfers. It has hosted the Tenerife Open on the European Tour on a number of occasions, with winners that include Ryder Cup players Jose Maria Olazabal, Mark James and David Gilford. In 1995 it hosted Shells Wonderful World of Golf battle between Ernie Els and Phil Mickelson, a recommendation indeed. The course was designed by Pepe Gancedo, and the attention is drawn instantly to the black volcanic sand which is featured in the bunkers, a very different sight, and initially strange to play from. There are three loops of nine holes, that can be played in combinations to make up the round. They are the South, The North and The Links, but I would always recommend that whichever combo is selected that the North course is included, if only for the spectacular 3rd hole. A long par five with a deep ochre coloured barranca running along the whole of right hand edge of the fairway, and rising to a green protected on the left with a huge gaping black bunker awaiting the wayward approach. Each loop returns to the clubhouse, and each has a distinct flavour. The south course also has it’s own memory jerker, the 193 meter second hole is dominated by an immense bunker of black sand, an incentive to find the green with the tee shot.
The Links always appears to be the most generous in yielding pars, especially if you can avoid the numerous water hazards, which come into play in the middle holes of the nine, where the changes in elevation have been used to create each individual hole. Cascading waterfalls link the lakes and make for a most impressive backdrop. The views out to sea and along the coast to the Red Rock are a constant reminder of the proximity of the Atlantic Ocean.
For those not wishing to drive far, the Golf Del Sur village is an ideal place to be based, there is a choice of hotel accommodation and numerous well appoint villas and apartments all close at hand. There is a wide selection of quality restaurants, such that it was necessary for us to make reservations for the ones that we had chosen, a good sign indeed. The Fairway Village and the Par CafĂŠ/Restaurant offers excellent fayre, particularly if you need a taste of home cooking or a traditional fish and chip supper, we were tempted back on more than one occasion.
There are now eight courses on the island, including Real Club de Golf de Tenerife which is way up in the north, as well as the Tecina Golf course on the island of La Gomera. Six of the clubs are located within easy travelling distance from the prime resorts in the south of the island, all contributing to the concept of year round golf in a perfect climate. Despite the exchange rate for the euro, golf in Tenerife is still good value for money if planned and booked in advance, in wintertime it is essential, for the courses tend to be well played.
In addition to wonderful golf which attracts golfers from all over Europe, the island is blessed with one of the best destinations for stargazing all year round, it is rated one of the three best sites in the world. Both amateur and professional astronomers visit Mount Teide, the highest point on the island, and no fewer than nineteen countries have astronomical equipment installed in the Teide Observatory. There are numerous night tours with highly knowledgeable guides, who accurately point out the constellations with laser torches, then complete the tour with mulled wine or hot drinks. Whether your tastes lie on the fairways or in the stars, Tenerife supplies the complete package all year round. Michael Rees
February 2018 | TEE TIMES 17
12 TEE TIMES
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ROMSEY JUNIORS ARE RUNNERS UP Alresford Golf Club WHATS HOT OR NOT IN HOME NATIONS FINAL, PORTUGAL! in the World of Ladies Golf Claire Kane
Painful backs are the curse of many a golfer, something I recently experienced on the golf course. If only I’d done a few warm up exercises, or gently hit a couple of balls into the nets but it was a chilly day, I felt sluggish after an indulgent Christmas and I made the mistake of just rushing onto the 1st tee. You’d think I’d have learnt from previous back problems - I know how important it is to keep core muscles strong but I’m not very self-disciplined when it comes to exercise. As for gyms I’ve always found them brimming with red faced individuals, waiting their turn to leap on complicated, torturous looking equipment. It’s interesting to compare the miserable partner. They consider it far more A few years between ago I recallsomeone signing upstarting for a Steps Class which, according theout convincing differences important to have a goodtoday with mates flyer posted through my letter box, would whip my muscles into shape, increase out playing golf and an experienced on a pleasant but forgiving course. my stamina and help megolfing lose weight. golfer in their twilight years.The fit looking instructress was a wonderful advert for her profession, making the exercisesBeginners look effortless whilst teaching a class can sometimes struggle with crammed full of glamorous ‘Sweaty Bettys’ who moved together in perfect unison. For instance, newbies are keen to play as long carries and dog-legs due to much golf but as possible so they’llI turned play inup anyin functional inexperience andand misjudgement. Intimated not undaunted, leggings baggy t-shirt,Sadly, set conditions. Whereas, older golfers are some elderly golfers alsoI must fail tohave cope with up my steps and enthusiastically hurled my body into the programme. reluctant to venture ontoheight the course the Towerlong carries lose their muscle climbed the equivalent of the ifEiffel (600 steps)asinthey the challenge to keep weather’s looking a bit dodgy and are more power and distance. up with the seasoned regulars. Despite oxygen deprivation, common sense finally than happy to while time in the being out of step with the class wasn’t the end kicked in and I cameaway to the conclusion clubhouse until the clouds pass by.Lance Corporal NewJones golfers are pretty naïve when it comes of the world, even if I did look like in Dad’s Army. to course management but they gradually It wasn’t until I tried to drive that I caughtlearn sightwhere of my to puce facetheinball, the car mirror When beginners initially enterhome competitions place nevertheless, and realise when I they tried need to co-ordinate the clutch realisedbullish my legand muscles they more lessons to and accelerator, they tend to Iremain optimistic had turned jelly soThe I ended up kangarooing alleven the when way home. improve theirtoscores. difference with they are in deep trouble. older golfers is they’ve already developed However, senior golfers know precisely Worse still, I woke the next day as stiff as a board, taking a good five minutes before I the techniques but it’s just a question of where to place the ball, even if they can’t could even swing my legs over the side of the bed. Every muscle from my waist down whether their hips, knees or shoulders will always reach it, or see it! They’re had gone into shock and my spine had seized up in sympathy. cope with the challenge. experienced and realistic enough to know if they’ve just played lousyback shotpain. it’s Days later, I hobbled through the doors of a physiotherapist, rackeda with Initially, as a beginner, it can be difficult probably unrecoverable and the chance of Instead of the usual bodily checks and manipulation, the physio asked me copious trying to remember how many shots you’ve scoring is pretty remote. questions, finally asking me to demonstrate how I walked up stairs. Now this physio taken let’s face it, multi-tasking is trickyto have serious doubts at this point - surely, came–highly recommended but I started when you’re so focused on striking and Beginners soon understand a good part of she knew how people walked up steps? tracking the ball. Interestingly, it’s not the pleasure of golf is about friendship but When I attempted the golfers action, to shealso pointed uncommon for elderly it’s the senior golfer who appreciates the out my core muscles on one side were ‘mislay’ the odd shot due to short term so ‘good feel’ factor of the constant cracks pathetic,loss. my hips tipped like a see-saw, memory with a bunch of fellow golfers, regardless putting enormous strain on my back. of how dire they play. When you’re fresh into golf, you’re keen to Numerous physio appointments later sign up for any games, even if you don’t It just shows you that regardless of your age, and minus hundreds of pounds, my have a clue what you’re entering, or who the benefits of golf are huge for everyone. core muscles were truly toned and my you’re playing with. Whereas the wiser, older hips back in balance. Let’s hope I golfer chooses carefully to avoid slogging recover quicker this time! © Claire Kane over long courses, through soggy meadows Follow my tales on twitter@golfsnippets or©having climb cardiac hills with a ClairetoKane
18 TEE TIMES | February 2018
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Enjoy golf on our free draining downland course over the winter period, confident in the knowledge that the weather will not stop you playing and you will get great value for your membership fee.
Nothing more to pay until 01/01/2018 (terms and conditions apply) · Utilise the clubhouse and catering with · 7 days a week discount card for bar and food purchases · NO joining fee • Highly regarded and well presented free draining course · Full use of club’s practice facilities, · Eligible to play in competitions driving range and tee PAR3times course necessary After 2and practice rounds the wait • Friendly clubhouse • Nowas booking system for ‘roll up’s’ · B ring guests to play on reduced · O btain an official CONGU handicap over and Romsey found out who they • Superb practice facilities • Regular competitions and ‘roll up’s’ members ‘guest rate’ socialinfunctions would· Attend be facing their group stages. • Reciprocal golf at other private members clubs LIMITED TO 30 SPACES They were drawn with England Home nations Cheriton Road, Tichborne Down, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 0PN champions Cuddington, Bothwell CastleEmail:secretary@alresfordgolf.co.uk from Tel : 01962 733746 Scotland and Pyle & Kenfig from Wales.
www.alresfordgolf.co.uk
Day 1 of main tournament saw Romsey V Cuddington in a 6 person Matchplay format on the Morgado course. It was a tough The Manor match with some fantastic golf. Romsey House triumphed with a 4-2 win.
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FREE GOLF At The UK’s Largest Golf Resort
Ashbury Day 2 saw Romsey v Bothwell CastleSet in a in the foothills of Dartmoor National
Hotels Park, Devon. The Ashbury Hotel is the ideal - The Only Sport,on Craft & Spa thrilling match the Alamos course. venue for your golf break. Hotels in the UK Romsey once again win 4-2, and now go top Atmeant least 27 of their group! This thatholes they of onlyFREE golf with each night of stay! Kigbeare 15th Pines 17th needed a draw in the final group match to 382 yards, Par 4 442 yards, Par 4 qualify for the final. Day 3, Romsey v Pyle & Kenfig was to be Romsey's finest performance with a 5-1 victory! They make the final against the other group winners Beadlow Manor from England.
into the team at the last minute. There was not a lot Romsey's Josh Hannam could do “I’ve never played such fantastic courses.” W - Trip Advisor Manor to and the Stephen match went to Beadlow So it was to be an all EnglandKigbeare affair with halve the 3-3. Par match 72 6528 Autumn to Spring neither team expected to make it past the Pines Par 72 6400 groupNOW stage.- 25/04/18 Unfortunately Beeches Par 69 the 5803tournaments rules state • FREE Golf Oakwood 68 5502 that if aParMatch is halved then the winner will ½ Price £8 Morgado Ashbury 9 + Pines Front 9 Par 69on 5775 The•final wasBuggies held on-the course be decided the number of holes won. • 10% OFF Spa Treatments Ashbury 9 + Pines Back 9 Par 71 6111 and Beadlow Manor took an early lead on & So Much More! Par 54 1939 Multi Sport Simulators the front 9. Things changed onWillows the back Beadlow Manor were to crowned champions nineMarch with Romsey's Owen Grimes bringing in as they won 10-7 on countback. Romsey 2018 Full Board Bargain Breaks from: the first win, followed by George Nicholsonwere gutted as they lost on a technicality. 4nt Midweeks £190pp • 3nt Weekends £150pp Jack with a nail biting win on the last, Romsey 2up. Additional Facilities FREE toThis residents ourmatch hotelsand Romsey did was a of great Sports Racket Sports Leisure Family Ranges themselves proud up. They never Bowls Tennis Swimming Funhouseas runnersArchery Table Tennis Badminton Spa & Sauna Gamezone Air Pistols Beadlow Manor came back with winning the lost a match the whole week, the only team 5-A-Side Squash Snooker Waterslides Air Rifles next twoBasketball matches with some stunning golf,Ten-Pinto achieve Play this.Area Short Tennis Lasers nowPLUS all square. was down tofeaturing the last two uniqueIt Craft Centre 17 tutored crafts, including Pottery & Woodwork matches, and Romseys Aaron Danson took No one expected a small club to do so well the next match making a draw most likely. and to be the second best team in the Uk is 0800 197 7582 ashburygolfhotel.com quite an achievement. This has been an TheAll lastrooms match saw Beadlow Manors that the whole team will never en-suite • Full junior board • experience Child rates • Party discounts have a hole in one after only being brought forget. Well done Romsey Juniors. !
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Another Successful year in the making at The Ashley Wood Golf Club A club with over 400 members situated in North Dorset and established since 1896. The club enjoyed a great year in 2017, where Club Captain, Clive Jones thoroughly enjoyed his year and managed to raise a record £11,032 for his chosen Charity, Prostate Cancer UK and in a year which saw ex-junior Stuart Ratcliffe win his first ever Club Championships. 2018 looks to be another great year for ‘Dorset’s Little Gem’. Club Captain Steve Sanger who became one of the countries youngest ever Club Captain at the age of 32 in 2006, gets another go, twelve years after thoroughly enjoying his first year. Steve has been a member since the age of 10 when his Dad Ken Sanger, was Captain in 1981. Steve first visited the course when it as a 9 hole course and the likes of Ryder Cup Player, Sam Torrance played with fellow pro’s John O’Leary, Manuel Calero and Manuel Pinero. Interesting that none of them managed to break Par! It became an 18 hole course in 1994. Steve has a lot of events planned for members and guests throughout the year which includes bringing back a Pro Am event to be held on Friday 5th October and another Spring Open which was oversubscribed last year with 40 teams to be held on Friday 18th May.
Supported by the Ladies Captain, Kay Everett and Seniors Captain, Mike Bartlett, a great year is planned. Lady Captain, Kay is now doing the job for the third time since she started playing the game in 1984. Then in 1988 she was honoured to be Lady Captain of The Ashley Wood, and again in 2009. In the meantime Kay has been Dorset Ladies County Secretary for a number of years and went on to be County President, which again was an honour and a privilege and to serve as County Junior Organiser for the past couple of years. She is now looking forward to being Ashley Wood Ladies Captain in 2018. Some might think she is mad, but she enjoys playing golf, as well as promoting the Club and Ladies’ Section to the wider world!
The Ashley Wood GC has a very welcoming clubhouse and members, also in the last 12 months they have been blessed with some excellent catering facilities from Lee and his team at Clubhouse1896. All open events and activities can be found on their very active website www.ashleywoodgolfclub.com also their Facebook and Twitter pages or contact the Club on 01258 452253 Steve, Kay and Mike look forward to welcoming everyone at the Club in 2018 in what looks to be another busy but successful year at The Ashley Wood GC.
Both Steve and Kay are supporting the same local worthwhile charity, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance www.dsairambulance.org.uk Seniors Captain, Mike Bartlett is a rookie at the Captaincy but is looking forward to it. After a career with the National Air Traffic Services, he retired and took up golf. After a short time, Mike and his wife Joan (a recent Lady Captain) joined Ashley Wood where they have happily been members for several years. Mike looks forward to a great year with the Seniors section which is constantly growing year after year. His charity is Jubilee Sailing Trust (www.jst.org.uk)
Recognition For Maurice Elsworthy Stalwart of Royal Winchester Golf Club At the 2017 Seniors Christmas Dinner it was announced that, from the 2018 season onwards, the Seniors’ Order of Merit trophy will be known as the ‘Maurice Elsworthy Order of Merit’. This is in recognition of Maurice’s achievements and commitment to Royal Winchester Golf Club. Maurice joined RWGC, where his father was already a member, in about 1954 at the age of 13. The club was then located in Chilbolton Avenue and as a Junior he paid the princely sum of £1 a year. This was quite expensive when you consider that now, as a Life Member, he only pays £56.25 for affiliations and a locker! As an adult Maurice became an Artisan like his father. At that time in the vast majority of golf clubs, Artisans had limited playing rights, they played totally separate competitions and had no voting rights. They were not allowed to use the clubhouse and so had to use a wooden hut for changing, socialising etc. Eventually Maurice became a fully paid-up member of the club and over the years he has seen a tremendous number of changes to both the clubhouse and the golf course. These include the move from Chilbolton Avenue and the revised course layout, and the rebuilding of the clubhouse after the disastrous Big Fire which completely destroyed the building, and some of the historic trophies and memorabilia it held.. He has seen so many changes to the course it’s no wonder he cannot read the greens!
In total Maurice has been a member of RWGC for 63 years to date - and we are still counting! In spite of his present ailments, which we all hope come to an end soon, Maurice still retains a current handicap of 15. That is quite impressive at his age - but what is really impressive is that he had a single figure handicap for 50 years or so. In his heyday, he was well known for his smooth swing and straight shots, which probably contributed to his record of five holes-in-one!
name up on any of the main trophy boards. It seems the only significant competition he has won is the Millennium Trophy with John Carling in 2016 when they scored 47 points. Currently the longest serving member of RWGC, Maurice might be second only to Les Day in the length of time he has been a member of the club.
When he worked for the Railways, in their Accounts Departmentt, he was a staunch supporter of the Golf Society - anything to get time off work! Maurice played for the County as a Junior and has represented the Main Club and the Seniors section of Royal Winchester in matches, including the Winter League, and has played in numerous Seniors Opens with some good results! He has always been an ardent supporter of the International matches, regularly playing for Wales. Those who have been on the Snowbirds trips, initiated by Ron Cross, will have stories to tell of Maurice’s golfing exploits in Spain, Turkey and Tunisia - and handed over a few Euros! As Maurice’s wife Liz will tell you, he will play golf at anytime, anywhere and in all conditions. Maurice has been Seniors Champion three times - in 2003, 2006 and 2013 but, strangely, does not have his
Our photo shows Maurice being congratulated on his achieving this well-deserved recognition by the Seniors Captain, Barry Girdlestone, and Tony Glanville who, with Barry, was instrumental in seeking the Club’s approval for the proposal.
February 2018 | TEE TIMES 19
Sergio rounds off EMMA HEADS FOR THE SOUTH AMERICAN SUN a masterful year While the UK hunkers down for the rest of the winter, one young Hampshire golfer is heading south for an important tournament.
Masters Tournament winner Sergio Garcia is this year’s recipient of the Golf Writers Trophy, as awarded by the Association of Golf Writers. The 37-year old Spaniard won an overwhelming majority of votes cast by AGW members following a season in which he claimed his first major title.
Jack Gaunt, 25, (Drayton Park, Staffordshire) is an England international who was runner up in the 2017 English amateur, Welsh open and Midland open championships.
Meon Valley’s Enna Allen, pictured right, is joining three other internationals representing England in the 2018 South American Amateur Championship at the Martindale Country Club, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Georgia Price, 24, (Bude & North Cornwall) helped England beat Spain in the 2017 international and had eight top ten finishes during the season. (Image copyright Leaderboard Photography).
Emma, 20, helped England win the 2016 European team championship and has been runner-up in the English girls’ and the English women’s championships. The rest of the team:
Andrew Wilson, 23 (Darlington, Durham) won the 2017 Lee Westwood Trophy at Rotherham and was runner-up in the North of England amateur at Alwoodley, also in Yorkshire.
He won the Omega Dubai Desert Classic in February before claiming his first Green Jacket by triumphing in a thrilling sudden death playoff to beat Justin Rose at Augusta in April.
Donald trumps a tax payback
Garcia’s third victory came in October at the Andalucia Valderrama Masters which is hosted by the player’s charitable foundation.
US President Donald Trump’s luxury hotel in Scotland has received a tax rebate which was drawn up to help struggling small businesses.
It is the second time Garcia has received the award. He won the vote after his breakthrough season in 1999 when he was a 19-year old runner up to Tiger Woods in that year’s PGA Championship at the Medinah Country Club near Chicago.
The £11million Trump Turnberry resort in Ayrshire has had its property tax cut by £109,530, South Ayrshire Council has confirmed. The relief reduces the hotel’s annual rates bill by 13.5per cent under the Scheme l launched to help revive the country’s struggling tourism industry.
Garcia’s Masters victory was one of three wins in what he has described as the best season of his life.
“ It is a tremendous honour to be recognised as the AGW Golfer of the Year by the Association’s members”, said Garcia. “ It is something that is very difficult to achieve, so it’s always a pleasure.“ To be voted the award for a second time, it is extremely exciting and hopefully I will be able to win it again. “ We know that both the golfers and media go hand in hand in this business, and we always appreciate when they recognise you for something as big as this. “ So, thank you again to all the members of the Association of Golf Writers for voting me their Golfer of the Year.”
President Trump at his Turnberry resort in Ayrshire
Last February, Scotland’s finance secretary placed a 12.5per cent cap on rising business rates for 8,500 firms in the hospitality sector, which includes hotels, restaurants, cafes, pubs and other businesses. South Ayrshire Council said that the tax relief awarded for the 201718 financial year was mandatory and as such, had to be awarded. Trump Turnberry, a luxury golf course resort, is expecting record revenues of up to £18m this year and has forecast a profit after years of losses. ‘From the business we have on the books so far, the pace is telling me the Trump Turnberry will have its best year of
revenue in 100 years,’ Trump Turnberry’s general manager, Ralph Porciani, told the Guardian in January. The information first came to light in response to a Freedom of Information request made by Scottish news site The Ferret, as part of a joint investigation with the Guardian. A Scottish government spokesman said: ‘Our hospitality rates relief is available to 8,500 businesses and 100,000 small business properties. Half of all properties pay no tax at all. ‘It is for businesses to apply for rates relief and for councils to ensure those which do are eligible.’
New partnership boosts golf with a fun message England Golf is highlighting the fun side of the sport by partnering with Paradise Island Adventure Golf to grow the game. The two organisations have agreed to work together to get more people playing golf, to improve the image of the game and to make golf more welcoming to all. Paradise Island Adventure Golf has four centres in England, in Cheshire, Derby, Manchester and Sheffield and two in Scotland, in Glasgow and Livingston, offering fun for all - children, family, friends and workmates. Each venue has two 18-hole courses with very special
20 TEE TIMES | February 2018
tropical and exotic challenges, including shipwrecks, pirates and temple ruins. It’s a formula which attracts huge numbers of people – with thousands taking part in the annual Open Championship challenge – and for many it’s their first taste of golf. Abbie Lench, England Golf’s Head of Club Support, commented: “This is a very exciting partnership and we are delighted to be working with Paradise Island Adventure Golf who are introducing so many people to the game. They are focussing on providing what their customers want and their popularity shows
that there are many different ways to enjoy golf. Adventure golf is a great way to start playing and having fun and hopefully it will encourage many people to move outdoors and on to the traditional golf course. They’ll find plenty of adventure there too!” Marketing Manager Craig Nichol said: “We are very excited to be working with England Golf. At Paradise Island we strive to create a friendly atmosphere where the focus is on the fun side of golf. Our customer demographics cover a wide range of golfer and non golfer participants, but is mostly families with young children.”
Gary sparkles to a record round Gary Milne was a late entrant in the first pro-am ever held at the seaside Minehead and West Somerset links course and produced a sensational record-breaking round of nine-under-par 63. The 52-year-old Devon county coach who teaches at Woodbury Park and plays only selected events, enjoyed an early tee-time on a day of two halves. The morning was played in benign conditions when half the field broke par. But it was a different story in the afternoon when wind and squally showers offered complexly contrasting conditions and the best score was 71. Milne was unable to accept the applause of the members or the £825 cheque for his remarkable career-best feat as he was excused prize-giving by tournament controller Bob Martin because he had a dental appointment so runner-up Sion Bebb (Morlais Castle) gave the speech. Milne, who was one of the region’s leading players during his days at Exeter, has concentrated on coaching for several years. He was out in fourunder 33 and back in five-under 30.
Brilliant Bebb started brilliantly with five birdies in the first seven holes. Two more followed as well as an eagle two at the 15th. Home pro former European Tour winner John Bickerton carded eight birdies, five on the back nine, but two early bogeys proved costly so he settled for third on 66. Mark Luckett (Yeovil) recorded his best finish by sharing fourth one shot further back. He was four under after five and finished with three birdies. Anthony Buchanan (Tavistock) joined the birdie fest with seven. Kevin Harper (East Devon) made six. Scott Drummond looked favourite to at least match Milne’s score after turning in six-under 31 and adding his seventh birdie at the 11th. But three late bogeys proved his undoing so he, too, was joint fourth. George Ryall (Burnham and Berrow), Richard Dinsdale (Asbri Golf), Alex Higgs (Stinchcombe Hill) and Paul Hendriksen (Ivybridge) shared eighth on 69. Bickerton arranged the successful day with assistant Jordan Arnold and member Peter Whalley. He raised funds for regional captain Nick Rogers from Falmouth who is backing the motor neurone charity this year.
February 2018 | TEE TIMES 21
Englands No.1 Resort Stoke Park has had much celebrate as the year 2017 drew to a close. For the prestigious Five AA Red Star Country Club Spa & Hotel in Buckinghamshire had landed an astonishing hat-trick of highly regarded golf accolades. In the space of little more than a week, Stoke Park was revealed as the Top English Golf Resort in the inaugural Golf World Top 100 Hundred Resorts in the United Kingdom & Ireland, then UK Golf Resort of the Year in Square Mile, the leading lifestyle publication for the City of London, and finally at the World Golf Awards in Spain, it was hailed as having the world’s best clubhouse. Praising the historic venue, the magazine’s editorial described the course as being “of considerable pedigree and astutely updated. The Harry Colt course is very good and getting progressively better, while the rooms, both in the historic mansion and the swish modern ones in the Spa Building are majestic. Dining in Humphrey’s will be at least the match of anything in this list.
The striking monument at the bottom of Stoke Park’s practice area is of Sir Edward Coke (1552-1634) a former Solicitor General and Speaker of the House of Commons, who was tenant of the estate from 1598. He was the country’s first Chief Justice and as Attorney General tried Guy Fawkes and Sir Walter Raleigh among others. Something to muse on as you deliver punishment to the practice balls.
The resort concept was created by Nick Pa Lane Jackson, a true Corinthian sportsman who had leased the property for fifty years, discovered the idea whilst visiting America, and made the decision to follow the idea in England, a successful concept that has been honed and polished into the resort of today. It is one of only two AA Five star golf clubs in England, and has twenty seven holes originally designed by renowned architect Harry S Colt. The three loops all carry significant titles, the first nine has been christened The Colt Course, holes ten to eighteen which were renovated in the winter of 2016-17, is The Allison Course (named after the partner of Harry Colt) and the final nine holes of the twenty seven is The Lane Jackson Course, after the founder. This loop will be upgraded during this winter; work is under way to complete the three year renovation programme for all the twenty seven holes.
The owners of Stoke Park, the King family, will have overseen a complete overhaul of the award winning venue over three winters, the first two loops re-opened to much acclaim in 2016 and 2017 respectively. The official date for the opening of the final nine, which was used for potato growing during World War 11 and not fully restored until 1998, is 20th April 2018. The renovation will respect the original Colt concepts but ensure they are suitable for play in the 21st Century. The resort is set in 300 acres of beautiful parkland, historic land which was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. The Repton Bridge much photographed and easily recognised is named after the gardener Humphrey, who took over the mantle after Capability Brown.
In acclaiming Stoke Park as UK Resort of the Year, Square Mile explained “As Stoke Park moves into its 110th year of operation, the Buckinghamshire resort shows no sign of falling behind the times. Holes 1 to 18 of the Harry Colt designed course are now open for play, with the refurbishment creating a more defined course with better framed hole designs. It’s an exciting, albeit necessary improvement worthy of such a historic golfing destination”. The instantly recognisable clubhouse, winner of the award, dates from the late 18th century, and was designed by Crown James Wyatt – it became synonymous with golf because of the James Bond scene in the film Goldfinger. Wyatt was among the most fashionable architects of his time, and had been commissioned by John Penn, grandson of William Penn who founded Pennsylvania. The house sits on the highest point of the 300 acres of gardens landscaped by Capability Brown in 1750.
22 TEE TIMES | February 2018
Stoke Park is steeped in history, bearing numerous links through it’s nomenclature, is acknowledged for the majestic clubhouse, one of the most iconic in the world, superb golf courses, as well as excellent tennis facilities and a state of the art health club. Everything a club member or visitor could possibly wish for, and sited just 35 minutes from London and eight miles from Heathrow Airport. Michael Rees
Hayling Ladies’ Golf Club held a 36 Hole Winter Solstice Challenge on Thursday 21 December 2017 and raised over £800 For Help For Heroes. Hayling’s own Moira Hoath set out at the crack of dawn on the shortest day of the year, Thursday 21 December in an attempt to play as many holes as possible before dusk, raising funds for Lady Captain Pam Mullins’ charity Help for Heroes. Moira managed more than 36 holes – she kept going after finishing 36 and 45 holes were played by dusk. Her feet were very sore by then – she took over 36,000 steps. She scored 24 + 34 + 13 stableford points – 71 in total. She was supported on the course by Ali Cox, Barbara Wareham and Lady Captain Pam Mullins.
Moira is pictured in her hi vis jacket on the 18th with other Hayling Ladies, and two of her on-course supporters, Lady Captain Pam Mullins and Barbara Wareham both on Moira’s left.
Lady Captain Pam Mullins and Moira on the 17th green.
February 2018 | TEE TIMES 23
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01344 354381 Downshire Golf Complex, Easthampstead Park, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3DH Tel: 01344 302030 Fax: 01344 301020 E: downshiregc@bracknell-forest.gov.uk W: www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/downshiregolf www.facebook.com/downshiregolf * Seniors, aged 64 and over. Adult rate is £21.00 per person.
24 TEE TIMES | February 2018
WEST CLIFFS CLAIMS NEW TOP 100 RANKING Those who are regular readers of my journalistic output will not doubt recall the enthusiasm I exhibited following my visit for the opening in June last year of the new West Cliffs golf course situated on the famed Silver Coast in Portugal. I was not alone, for many of the journalists playing the course felt that it was in contention for the title of Best Course in Portugal, despite some misgivings about the difficulty of some of the tee shots, which were certainly needy of a well performing driver. Since then the course has attracted much media attention, and with every justification.
Located about one hundred kilometres north of Lisbon, and less than an hour in the car from the capital, on the renowned Silver Coast, West Cliffs, which was named as the World’s Best New Golf Course at the 2017 World Golf Awards, has already been tipped to become number one in Portugal. There was further good news for Praia D’El Rey which manages the new layout at West Cliffs, with the other 18 hole championship course at the resort, which has been elevated twenty five places in the rankings to number 48 in the top 100 Continental Europe list. A powerful combination certain to attract golfers searching for that something just a little bit special. Announcing the decision, the Top 100 Golf Course panel said “Our highest new entry, West Cliffs has already received rave reviews with comments such as “ridiculously good… exhilarating… a staggering scenic golf course…out of this world. We have to agree with the assertion of one reviewer that this fantastic links layout is possibly a contender for a place in the World Top 100 Courses in the non-too distant future”. On Praia D’El Rey it added “Other honourable mentions in Portugal include Cabell Robinsons exceptional late 1990’s layout at Praia D’El Rey. It mixes great holes through lush vegetation, with a number of holes that run alongside the coastline and encompass sand dunes and links style challenges whilst at the same time, providing views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby Berlengas Islands”
The meteoric rise of West Cliffs Golf Links to the top of the golfing world continues apace, with the new Portuguese course achieving the highest new entry ever in the history of the respected Top 100 Golf Courses European listing. The Cynthia Dye designed layout has taken the game by storm since opening last summer, and has been ranked 16th in the update poll of the popular website of best courses on the continent, joining Praia d’el Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort with a position among Europe’s elite golf resorts.
During the first months it has been open for play; West Cliffs has enjoyed a memorable start to life, with a number of notable achievements, including a Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) Certified Development, and the highest new entry in Golf World’s Top 100 European courses. West Cliffs is the first Dye designed course in Portugal and only the fourth in Europe, a spectacular par 72 cliff top links which has been created on over 200 hectares of natural landscape and rolling sand dunes, featuring spectacular views over the Atlantic.
special for our resort. We knew West Cliffs had the potential to be up with the best when it was being created, and it is very exciting to think that it will only improve with time”. Praia D’El Rey is an exceptional course in its own right, and we are delighted to see it being given the recognition it deserves.” In addition to two wonderful golf courses, the resort at Praia D’El Rey offers an array of world class accommodation together with sports and leisure facilities, including the Marriott Hotel, a wide selection of villas. On the sports scene there is a tennis academy, a luxury spa and health club, numerous watersports plus a first class choice of restaurants. Everything the discerning visiting golfer or sportsman could desire, just waiting to be sampled and enjoyed. Michael Rees
Francesco Cadete, Director of Golf commented: “There are so many outstanding golf courses in Europe so to have two ranked inside the top fifty, including the highest new entry ever, is very
For more information on West Cliffs and Praia D’El Rey visit the following websites: www.westcliffs.com and www.praia-del-rey.com
February 2018 | TEE TIMES 25
thly Monthly tuition totuition get you on top game to get youofonyour top of yourbygame by anced PGA Lady Professional, Katie Dawkins Advanced PGA Lady Professional, Katie Dawkins
Love your Kings and Queens When it comes to the golf swing the most important muscles some would say are your buttocks. The Glutes are the rulers when it comes to strength, strong glutes and your swing will be repeatable and reliable. Weak glutes means you are likely to extend out of your impact position before you actually get to the ball, leaving you wide open to mishits and a somewhat frustrating golf game. Next in line to the throne is your core, your stomach muscles or rather your whole core will help you to get through the ball and again stabilise your swing. They’ll also help protect your back, literally giving you back up you can rely on. The joy of working on strengthening your butt and your core is that you’ll be improving your game without even stepping foot on the driving range. Not to mention feeling firmer in yourself. I’m not suggesting hours of squats and sit ups… let’s liven things up a bit. Create a few moments in your day where you do these fun exercises that should put a smile on your face. If it’s fun, you’ll do it… Stick on a few of your favourite tunes, get the beats pumping. Do these exercises for one track, build up to two.
Butts in Gear… Lie on your back and engage your core by pulling up your pelvic floor muscles. This will enhance your form and help you balance. With your feet flat on the floor and knees up. A simple Gllute bridge exercise would be to simply raise your bum and push your hips up towards the ceiling creating a wedge shape. Repeat this in a controlled fashion smoothly for the track you’re listening to. To make it trickier and really engage your core a bit more as well as work that butt, cross your arms across your chest. Life your bum again and slowly lower. Really want to get the bum and legs working then once raised gently raise one leg and again smoothly lower.
Let’s go Walkies From a standing position stretch your hands high in the air and enjoy a really lovely extension of your spine. From here curl downwards and let your hands hang then touch the floor if you can. Now its time to start walking your hands out in front of your until you form a plank. All the while keep your core engaged. Now it’s up to you, walk back the way your came and keep repeating or for a bit more fun walk your feet towards your hands and come back up and go again until your’ve made it across the room. This is a really great core workout but I love the stretchy element too. It’s a feel good one, though if you have dogs beware they think this is one big game- especially 8week old puppies!
Dancing Horse Get down on all fours and again engage that core. Lie your left hand off the ground then your right knee at the same time. smoothly swap sides so the alternate limb lifts. Pad your hands and knees up and down, doing it slowly will make your core work harder. for a more difficult version extend your arm and opposing leg out straight to engage the glutes and stretch.
Climb the rigging Connect with your inner pirate and lie on your back with your feet flat on the floor… make sure you’ve found a really pumping tune and start climbing imaginary rigging, pulling yourself up it with your arms. Feeding that imaginary rope through your hands. Keep to the beat and to really test yourself further lift those heels off the floor and suck up that core. Feel the burn, it’s good for you. Working these exercises into your daily schedule may seem an effort. But find a bit of floor space and a few tunes on your phone and give yourself 6 minutes. Do it every day and I guarantee you’ll reap the benefits and see your golf game improve. Many of us hate the gym but stick a music note in your diary every day. I like setting my alarm as a favourite tune and getting straight out onto the carpet and doing a few stretches/ exercises. Keeping the alarm going for around 8 minutes. It isn’t long but my word it puts a smile on your face. To really boost your golf game and seek out healthy habits this year, contact me on katie@ katiedawkinsgolf.co.uk Love Life, Love your golf but most importantly LOVE YOU. You’re more than worth 6 minutes of YOU time.
26 TEE TIMES | February 2018
Based at Ampfield Golf Club and Meon Valley Based at Ampfield Golf Club and Meon Valley GolfGolf andand Country Club Country Club
Instant change Last month’s article featured a long term pupil of mine, Emma Allen. I am very proud to say that, shortly after writing the article, Emma was picked for this year’s Curtis Cup squad. The Curtis Cup is a biennial women’s amateur competition between eight-player teams from the United States of America and Great Britain and Ireland. I wasn’t too sure what to write about in this article so, in an effort to gain a little inspiration, I went to hit a few balls. I took my ipad with me so I could have a look at my swing. For years, in an effort to improve my teaching and satisfy my enquiring mind, I’ve used my practice to experiment with things to see what effect they have on the swing and shots. I’m always looking for simple little things that make positive quick changes automatically. If something happens automatically then it is much easier to repeat. You just have to groove in whatever it is that’s causing the automatic response. The three pictures that accompany this article are of the first two shots I hit in that practice session. The first swing was the one on the left. The shot wasn’t pretty, it went high right. After looking at the swing I hit another, but this time I put my right thumb in a slightly different position at address. I didn’t try and manipulate my swing in any way as I wanted to see the effect of the new position. The second swing felt very different and the ball started on a much straighter line. When I saw the instant and dramatic changes brought about to the swing in less than a minute by merely changing the thumb, I thought to myself, “this is the answer – my Tee Times article is waiting to be written!” See how the top positions differ. The one on the right has the shaft far less steep, (that’s the part I could feel). Now look at the picture of me on the downswing. In the swing on the left, my left arm is pointing outwards towards the ball and the shaft is very flat, (marked with the white line). In the second swing the left arm is nearer vertical and the shaft is steeper. Hands moving away from me with the club flattening in the first swing caused the shot to the right. That same action could cause a hook if the hands were a little more active at impact. I prefer the downswing position on the right. From here it is much easier to start the ball on line. I’m not a great fan of the post impact position on the right but I prefer it to the one on the left any day. You probably don’t believe that all these changes could be brought on by an automatic response to something so little, but I can assure you they were. Over the years I have seen many big improvements made by changing something seemingly small and insignificant. Maybe great golf is just a tweak away for you! If you need some help deciding how to improve your striking please contact me. Mobile: 07787 887578 Email: martin.butcher@aim.com Website: mbtourcoach.com
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