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ISSUE 175 DECEMBER 2015 Tel: 01329 834360 Email: peter.teetimes@gmail.com www.teetimesgolfmagazine.com
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Ex-caddie Williams lashes out at Tiger’s ‘bad habits’
Woods treated me ‘like a slave’ STEVE Williams has lashed out at Tiger Woods, who he says treated him ‘like a slave’ during their hugely successful time together.
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INSIDE CLUBS TACKLE THE WINTER BLUES - Page 4
Wentworth : A new Chinese takeaway? - Page 18
PLENTY OF CLUB FOR NEW RECORD - Page 20
Opportunity Knox for a new star
A close relationship gone sour: Williams and Woods in their winning days
Williams, who caddied for Woods when he averaged a Major a year for 13 years, vents his ire in his new autobiography, Out of the Rough. In part of the book, which was serialised in Williams’ native New Zealand recently before going on full public release, he pulls no punches as he comments on his former employer’s behaviour both on the course and off it. Williams says it was not until March 2010 that the player called him to apologise personally for the infidelity scandals which had sensationally broken into the public domain three months earlier.
- Page 20
MICKELSON AND CADDIE IN SPLIT - Page 20
Williams says Woods’ public atonement was ‘heavily scripted’, and his on-course club throwing and spitting were ‘not pleasant to witness’
needed to say and it was going to be difficult to tell my boss he had to pull his head in.
Williams had been criticised by people, particularly his fellow New Zealanders, who thought he would have known about Woods’ behaviour and condoned it, or at least turned a blind eye to it.
‘I explained to him what had happened in New Zealand and how furious I was at being dragged through the wringer over a scandal I had nothing to do with. He needed to know how difficult that was for me and my family.
The caddie was angered that there had been no earlier contact from Woods and his management team: ‘There was a lot I
‘I told him it was something that could have been avoided and how bitterly disappointed I was at his people for their total lack of
communication and unwillingness to put out a statement saying I had nothing to do with it. ‘I was adamant that some of his behaviour on the course had to change. He was well known for his bad temper and, while that wasn’t pleasant to witness, you could live with it because it ended as quickly as it started.
Tour chief scans the landscape - Page 24
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Rob leads the coaching way ROB Watts, who coached Darren Clarke when he won The Open, has been appointed as the new lead coach for the England Golf boys’ squad. He will deliver the national boys’ coaching programme and support England boys’ teams at specific events throughout the year. Watts is based at Castle Royle in Berkshire, where he is the head PGA professional and runs the Rob Watts Performance Academy. He has extensive coaching experience and works with golfers across a wide spectrum, from European Tour players to elite amateurs and county squads as well as beginners and improvers.
WRAP UP AND KEEP GOLFING!
He has been an England Golf U16 regional squad coach for the past three years and currently works with three England internationals. Watts is an Advanced Fellow of the PGA and also has qualifications in exercise, nutrition and lifestyle coaching. He said: ‘It is a great honour and I am very proud to have been given the opportunity to work with our national boys’ team. It is a very exciting time, I am very much looking forward to meeting and working with the boys, specialist coaches and management so we can continue to aspire and deliver performances for England Golf on an international level.’
HAMPSHIRE’S Justin Rose has won his eighth European Tour title with victory at the Hong Kong Open.
GETTING withdrawal symptoms? We all know the signs as winter begins to bite. Do you keep eyeing your clubs fondly as they languish in a cupboard? Do you clean your golf shoes for a second and third time? There are only so many times you can reach into your DVD collection and replay Tin Cup or The Greatest Game Ever Played.
England's Matthew Fitzpatrick finished tied in third on 11 under while countryman Ian Poulter tied for 29th.
Eighteen golf clubs across Staffordshire are offering nine-hole green fees, providing opportunities for golfers to keep playing during shorter daylight hours and enjoying the health and well-being benefits of the game.
To n i c ‘Golfers in the county can reap the health and well-being benefits of winter golf. It’s the perfect tonic for beating the winter blues and boosting energy. Wrapping up warm and getting out in the fresh air for a game of winter golf can be really invigorating and good for your health.’ Golf Express is part of an England Golf project which is trialling innovative ways of increasing participation and golf club memberships. It has attracted hundreds of players and widespread media interest since it was launched earlier this year, promoting nine-hole greens fees and after-work rollups to meet the needs of people with busy lifestyles.
Lucas Bjerregaard moved two shots ahead of Rose on the ninth, but a birdie for the Englishman on the 10th and bogey for the Dane on 11 levelled things. Bjerregaard double bogeyed the 14th and Rose hit a two-under 68 to finish on 17 under, one clear of the 24-year-old.
Help is at hand. There is an England Golf initiative that might be the solution to extending the golfing season. It is called Golf Express, and it promotes nine-hole golf – all the game in half the time.
Gareth Shaw, Staffordshire County Development Officer, says: ‘People tend to play less golf in the winter – but we’re confident this won’t be the case in Staffordshire.
Rob Watts with Darren Clarke and The Open trophy
Great eight for Justin
Fitzpatrick, who won the British Masters at Woburn a fortnight ago, was all set to finish third on his own, but three bogeys and a birdie in his final four holes saw the 21-year-old drop back to 11 under.
Never mind the weather – Golf Express is extending the season (Image © Leaderboard Photography)
Golf Clubs offering Golf Express winter offers are: Barlaston, Branston, Cannock Park, Druids Heath, Izaak Walton, Kingswinford, Lichfield (The Spire Course), Mark Butler Golf Academy, Onneley, Oxley Park, Perton Park, Lakeside, Stafford Castle, Stone, 3 Hammers, Trentham Park, Uttoxeter and Westwood. To find out more visit getintogolf.org/golfexpress or call 0800 118 2766. Get into golf is the national campaign to inspire adults to take up golf, run by England Golf and supported by Sport England National Lottery funding is encouraging more women to get into the game. Follow Get into golf on Twitter at twitter.com/getintogolf or on Facebook at facebook.com/Getintogolf
Poulter made a last-minute journey from Orlando to play in order to help maintain his European Tour membership – and possible Ryder Cup consideration finished at five under after a closing 69.
Justin Rose: Another tour win
Earlier, Rose slipped up as Argentina's Emiliano Grillo claimed his first PGA Tour title with a play-off victory at the Frys.com Open in California. Grillo, 23, was tied with America's Kevin Na on 15 under after a three-under 69 in his final round and won at the second extra hole with a birdie. Rose was 14 under after nine holes but three bogeys in his last six holes saw him finish on 12 under after a 72.
‘Tiger had other bad habits that upset me’ • From Page 3
‘But he had other bad habits that upset me. I wanted him to prove to me he could change his behaviour and show me‚ and the game of golf, more respect. ‘One thing that really pissed me off was how he would flippantly toss a club in the general direction of the bag, expecting me to go over and pick it up. I felt uneasy about bending down to pick up his discarded club, it was
like I was his slave. The other thing that disgusted me was his habit of spitting at the hole if he missed a putt.’ Before their break-up, Woods and Williams had been so close that the then world number one was best man at his caddie’s wedding in 2006. Williams said the televised ‘public atonement’, in which the 14-time Major champion apologised for his affairs, had not be ‘warranted’, adding: ‘It
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was heavily scripted with nothing natural about it. I didn’t have any sympathy for him over what he’d done. I believe you’re in charge of your own actions and I have no sympathy for people who get addicted to drugs or gambling or sex. People make choices in their lives and he had chosen to do this.
‘But I did have sympathy for the way he’d had to suffer in front of the world when others would have been able to sort out their mess in private.’
Williams, who took time off away from golf to write the book before returning to caddie for Adam Scott, insists he was completely in the dark about Woods’ behaviour.
‘How could I spend so much time with him and not have an inkling this was going on? The answer, in a roundabout way, is that Elin (Woods’ ex-wife) didn’t know either. Only a handful of his oldest buddies actually had any idea this was going on. I didn’t know because Tiger didn’t dare tell me.’
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COME AND PLAY DORSET始S NO.1 PREMIER HEATHLAND COURSE!
驶Stunning in every way! Great Welcome, not to be missed!始
FOUR SEASONS GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP AT MEON VALLEY In October 2015 Meon Valley Golf Club launched a new and innovative competition which is to run from the first event though to the summer of next year. There will be four qualifying competitions played over the Championship course, one to coincide with each season of the year..
Neal Grist the Director of Golf at the resort was delighted with the turnout for the initial championship qualifier, and all of the fifty competitors were complimentary about the course and the organisation which result in a great day for all.
The top ten players in each of the four seasonal championships will qualify for the Grand Finale which will take place next summer after the four qualifying events.
The entry forms will be available in the January issue of TeeTimes magazine or entry can be reserved by going to the www.golfempire.golf.uk website, where the entry forms are available. Dates for the remaining championships are as follows:
The event is open to members and visitors alike and the ten qualifiers from each qualifier will be made up of five home club members and five visitors, to ensure a wide range of participants who have won places during the year.
bookings@broadstonegolfclub.com Tel: (01202) 642524 www.broadstonegolfclub.com
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The next qualifier, The Winter Season event will be played on Thursday the 25th of February 2016, and there are ten places to be won in the Grand Finale, plus the Winter Season winners shield.
The competitions are in individual Stableford format, played with three quarters handicap, and all the events will be played from the yellow tees, and will therefore be nonqualifiers. The first event, The Autumn Championship was held in October, and fifty players competed in the launch of the event. The winners are listed opposit.
The Summer event will be linked with the ever popular Tee Times Seniors Open Championship, which has always be a well supported and enjoyable event.
Broadstone Golf Club, Wentworth Drive, Broadstone, Dorset, BH18 8DQ.
played from the white tees, as befits a major event and will therefore be a qualifier for handicapping purposes.
There is a trophy for each of the four qualifiers, offering four chances to make the big day. The trophies are in the form of a shield named after the season, and the final will be played for the Four Seasons Trophy, which will be in the form of a Claret Jug. As well as the Claret Jug, the overall winner will have a prize visit to the Forest Of Arden Marriott Resort. The Grand Final will be
Winter Spring Summer Grand Final
February 25th 2016 May 12th 2016 July 28th 2016 September 29th 2016
2015 Senior Mens Autumn Champion P Jones of the Downshire Golf Club In addition to the trophy the winner received a bottle of champagne and a voucher for a one night stay at the St Pierre Golf & Country Club. Other Qualifiers for the 2016 Grand Final were as follows: Members
Visitors
R Piller N Boyes M White M Venerables S Jones
K Maguire - Southwood GC S Jones - Lee on the Solent GC G Hoult - Oxford City GC R Weymouth - Berkhamstead GC R Ansell - Downshire GC
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Golf is getting easier? Ever weekend watching the golf on television, I get more and more frustrated by the comments by the so called esteem experts. All we keep hearing is the wonderful new equipment that is so easy to use and how far today's golfers are hitting the ball compared to previous years. Sadly the reality is not what “they” keep preaching. Supposedly according to what we hear, golf is so much easier than before and we have never had it so good. As always the truth is somewhat different from that. In truth the quality of equipment available today is of a much higher quality than available before.
The most important thing was that you had to be able to hit you irons consistently within 10% ever time. This means what ever iron you use to hit 150 yards has to be within 15 yards ever time. More importantly, the iron you use to hit 80 yards has to be within 8 yards every time. This is where high handicap golfers go wrong. Using statistics again, irrespective of your handicap, 70-80% of your shots will be within 100 yards. The secret of good golf is consistency not distance. It has been proved many times that if you can hit the ball fairly consistently 150 yards, you can play to 18 handicap.
But the average golfer does not always get what they are think they are getting.
Tee shot 150 yards, second shot 150 yards down the fairway, chip onto the green and two putts. Do that and you are 18 handicap!
Statistics as they say can be a dangerous thing, however sometimes they can show you what is really happening.
Going back to the belief that you have to hit the ball further and more importantly today's clubs hit the ball further.
If golf is getting easier, we would be correct in assuming that the average handicap would be reducing.
I have written before about the disease in the industry of vanishing loft. If you compare the latest clubs with a set of 20 years ago, the 7 iron loft was 40°, the pitching wedge today on some clubs is 42°.
However, that is not the case. Not only has the average handicap not reduced, it has in fact increased, albeit by less that one point. But if golf is getting easier the handicap would definitely come down. I do believe that I can explain this apparent discrepancy. The first point to discuss is this feeling that the golfer today is hitting the ball further than before. The manufacturers and the media always push the point that distance is the elixir of golf. Everyday I have people coming to see me asking to make them a driver. I have 28 handicap golfers who believe that if I make them a driver that can hit 250 yards their golf is going to improve.
To put this in context, 20 years ago if Jack Nicklaus was chipping over a bunker to a tight flag, he didn't say to his caddy pass me my 7 iron and I will put it close to the pin. All golfers will realise that a pitch with a 7 iron instead of a pitching wedge will make it harder to get the ball closer and easier to stop. Yet in today's sets, that is what a lot of golfers are doing. When I was younger I could hit my 7 iron 150 yards and that is why a lot of today young golfers can hit their pitching wedge 150 yards. It is not modern technologies that have done this – it is cheating!!
A 28 handicap who can not hit a 3 wood straight, is not going to hit a driver straight! As Harvey Penick said “The trees are full of big hitters.”
If you want to hit your existing irons further, don't bother with lessons, just get a marker pen and re-write the number on the bottom of your clubs and you will get instant improvement and if you believe the manufacturers, your handicap will come down.
Butch Harmon wrote an article about 7 years ago that to play to scratch you only needed to be able to carry the ball 200 yards.
That may seem very childish, but it illustrates the point. Modern irons are not hitting the ball further, it is just an apparent increase.
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The other major mis-information is that drivers hit the ball further than before. One of the major factors in driver distance is ball speed, which is predominately determined by club head speed. The premise is the longer the club the faster the club head speed. This is only correct if you can control a longer club. When a comparison of drivers is carried out on TV or magazines, they always compare a persimmon club with the modern driver. The persimmon club is 43½” with a 130 gram shaft. The modern driver is up to 46½” long with a 50 gram shaft. If we swapped the heads over and made a perfect swing with both, the persimmon headed club would edge past the titanium headed club. In that case I could argue that persimmon headed clubs are much better than titanium
headed clubs – not the argument the industry would like to hear! The secret of better golf is not distance but consistency. This can only be achieved through custom made clubs, which not only match you, but more importantly match each other. A copy of this and my previous articles for Doyle’s Dilemmas can be found online at http://www.teetimesgolfmagazine.com Should you have any questions on this or any equipment matter please feel free to call me on 01256 322007 or 07859 920055. Alternatively, email me directly at dave@madetomeasuregolf.co.uk or visit my web site at www.madetomeasuregolf.co.uk
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Beverly’s BIG Secrets
Hampshire Ladies Golf JUNIORS CLOSE ANOTHER FANTASTIC SEASON OF GOLF IN HAMPSHIRE
– Beverly Huke Here I go again! I have found another great “toy” that I simply LOVE – the SURE-SET. Setting your wrist hinge in the right place in the backswing and then co-ordinating your hand and arm movement with your torso, is tough to learn but essential if you are going to play your best.
This training aid helps you do just that! Just go to www.golfswingsystems.co.uk, go into “Plane Tools” and check it out! If you would like me to help you to play your best, please text or call 07973 307880. Merry Christmas - Bev
Junior Girls Autumn Meeting & 2015 Trophy Winners
What a brilliant year 2015 has been, with some amazing golf from our fabulous ladies and girls in Hampshire. As they always do, the junior girls closed our action packed season of events with their Autumn Meeting held at Romsey Golf Club.
SNOWS TOYOTA MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT CHARITY GOLF DAY RAISES £8,000
There were also prizes for NTP on all 4 par 3 holes, NTP in 2 on the 15th, Longest Drives on the 4th and 12th and a Beat the Pro competition on the 5th. They were won by Eddie Martin, Hampshire Cricketer Sean Irvine, Jamie Ward, Kevin Cresswell, Barry Whittaker, Danny Wiltshire and Steve Berryman respectively.
The girls persevered in some absolutely vile weather and there was some amazing golf in the extremely wet and windy conditions. Beth Goater from Hockley won the scratch prize while Olivia Ripiner from Meon Valley was awarded the Dot Hayward Trophy for winning the event with 37 points.
The 2015 Order of Merit trophies were also presented. Emma Higgins (Highcliffe Castle) and Maddie Ripiner (Meon Valley) shared the scratch title, while Amelia Williams was the outright handicap winner. Finally, Tara O’Herlihy (Basingstoke) was presented with the Junior Summer Knockout trophy having narrowly beaten sister Lucy in a nip and tuck final match at the end of the summer.
A number of other prizes were also awarded at the girls’ Autumn Meeting including the La Moye Salver, won this year by Amelia Williams (Bramshaw) for her impressive handicap reduction from 13 to
Thanks go to Emma Higgins for her brilliant leadership as this year’s Junior Girls’ Captain and congratulations to Katy Mackworth-Praed (North Hants) who will be at the helm for 2016.
A New Era Dawns As Hampshire Extends Immense Thanks To Bridget Moore And Mags Clarke
100 golfers and cricketers from across the County enjoyed a round of golf in glorious sunshine at an immaculately prepared Test Valley Golf Club to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. A full handicap stableford competition with the best 2 scores from 4 counting on each hole produced some excellent scoring with the Easton & Martyr Worthy Cricket Club team securing first place with 98 stableford points.
6, and the Kerry Smith Award which was presented to Flora Keites (La Moye) for her commitment and improvement throughout the year.
Trevor Compton, Jamie Banks, Stuart Upcraft and Ben Stanbrough
A great carvery meal was then enjoyed by everyone followed by a Heads & Tails competition with Jamie Ward winning a Weekend Behind the Wheel of a Toyota G86 sports car and a meal for two at the Potters Heron Hotel in Ampfield. A much sought after Sunningdale 4 ball voucher was the star auction item. Organiser Trevor Foreman thanked Test Valley for a fantastic team effort, Enid Horton for doing a magnificent job on the raffle, all the sponsors (main sponsor Snows Toyota, Williams Garage, Selwood Plant Hire, Trimline, 121 Golf and Ben Stanbrough at Direct Golf and all participants and donors for their brilliant support. Trevor was delighted to report that the golf day raised £8,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.
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left to right are: Kay Walshe, Bridget Moore, Jackie Keay, Jane Scott, Mags Clarke
Both Bridget and Mags stepped down from their respective roles as President and Captain of the HLCGA at the AGM held on 12th November. The county has flourished under their leadership and we offer them both our immense gratitude for all of their support and for the time that they have dedicated to making Hampshire ladies’ golf a joy to be part of.
Captain Jane Scott and her Vice-Captain Kay Walshe. We wish them every success in their new posts and look forward to another fantastic year for Hampshire golf in 2016.
Meanwhile, everyone in Hampshire warmly welcomed incoming President Jackie Keay,
For all the latest news from HLCGA visit our website hampshireladiesgolf.co.uk
Enormous thanks also go to Veterans’ Captain, Lesley Donegan and Channel Islands’ Rep, Sue Wellfair who also step down from their respective posts this year.
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www.oldthorns.com golf@oldthorns.com | Hampshire | 01428 725 874
Winter Warmers from only £30 includes: tea/coffee on arrival | 18 holes of golf | 1 course chef’s special
Tracy Park
www.Tracypark.co.uk golf@tracypark.co.uk | Gloucestershire | 01179 371 800
Golf Academy
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DECEMBER 2015
WHATS HOT OR NOT
in the World of Ladies Golf
Your Monthly Blog by
Claire Kane
THE WOES OF WINTER GOLF
.
Winter golf can be a challenge. For a start, weather forecasts still aren’t particularly accurate. To be honest you’re probably better off consulting a couple of fir cones and a piece of seaweed in your back garden before deciding whether to go off and play golf.
When it comes to playing in the colder months, maybe more golfers would venture out and play if the winter rules were extended to include:
Having made the brave decision to play on a chilly or damp day, you’ll likely to arrive on the first tee looking like you’re off for a trip to the Artic, smug in the knowledge you’ve prepared for just about any inclement weather.
• An extra shot when you have to putt on uneven, temporary greens
However, you’re also conscious the extra wadding is going to limit your swing and by the third hole, you‘re going to feel like you’re having a sauna. If you wear winter mittens and gloves then you’ll need to be well organised – don’t expect to find something quickly in your golf bag when you’re togged up with gloves. As for trying to unclip a ball marker with thick gloves, well you’ll need the focus, patience and dexterity of a surgeon. Then there’s the critical decision of when to put on your waterproof trousers, for whilst they may also offer warmth and wind resistance, you can bet they’re more likely to act like sails in the wind and not necessarily in your favour.
• A second drive (rather like a second serve in tennis) to allow for the lack of movement due to bulky clothes
• A mulligan when the mud flies further than the ball • The option to take a trained sniffer dog on the course to help to find balls quickly in the freezing weather When the weather’s cold, you don’t really warm up until the 10th hole and by that point, you’re likely to be pretty weary, having been up to your ankles in mud or struggling through a stiff breeze, so there’s little chance of a decent score. At least there’s always a warm welcome back at the Clubhouse, where everyone can relax and enjoy a social get-together and where it’s popular to pull chairs into a big circle (like a posse of cowboys around a camp fire) to tell tales (or woes) over a strong cup of tea. © Claire Kane Follow my tales on twitter @golfsnippets
Golf Academy
SWAMI GT GOLF GPS First and foremost, the Swami GT works as a traditional GPS to provide you instant, accurate distance for each and every shot. But thanks to NFC (Near Field Communications) technology, it can do so much more. Tracker Tags are inserted into the end of each of your clubs. These tracker tags work together with the GPS technology to transmit and track data from every shot during every round on your Swami GT, without any manual inputting. In turn, this critical data is displayed to provide the information you need for continuous game improvement, shot after shot.
• Records exactly how far you hit each of your clubs • Tracker tabs attached to all your clubs • Large vibrant 2.5" display easy to operate • Post Round Analysis
Features • Includes 14 tracker tags, one for each club • Provides accurate distances for more than 30,000 courses • Recommends which club to hit based upon distance averaging per club • Tracks your putts per round • Keeps your score • Tracks your GIR • Tracks you average driving distance
Home page www.powerhousegolf.co.uk
Once you've finished your round, simply log in to your free Swami GT account and instantly see how you did. All stats of your game are recorded, calculated and displayed. Most of the statistical information is viewable on the device itself as well. RRP £169 launch price £149
Product link http://powerhousegolf.co.uk/acatalog/Swami -GT-Golf-GPS-ACC1379.html#SID=59 Video http://powerhousegolf.co.uk/acatalog/Swami -GT-Golf-GPS-ACC1379.html#SID=59
BURLEY JUNIOR WINS AT BROCKENHURST Burley Golf Club member Michael Fisher, aged 11, won the Junior Autumn Trophy played at Brockenhurst recently. Michael’s winning score was 37 points. This latest win continues a very successful golfing season for Michael. Proud Dad, David Fisher, said “Michael’s golf has really improved recently and his handicap has reduced from 22 to 17. He has represented his county [Hampshire] twice this year”. The Burley Golf Club was established in 1905. This course in Hampshire was set out by local gentlemen on Forestry land and is a typical heath land course that remains largely unspoiled today. Described as one of the “gems of the New Forest”, the course offers some of the finest greens at golf courses in Hampshire or Dorset.
Michael Fisher with Autumn Trophy
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WATERLOOVILLE GOLF CLUB
TEE TIMES
fro 2 m m Jc iles t2 M 27
DECEMBER 2015
WELLOW GOLF CLUB FULL 27 HOLE COURSE
WINTER SPECIALS
WINTER OFFER 1ST OCTOBER - 31ST MARCH MONDAY - FRIDAY £25 PER DAY (EXCL. 23rd DEC. - 3rd JAN.) WATERLOOVILLE GOLF CLUB Cherry Tree Avenue, Cowplain Waterlooville, Hampshire, PO8 8AP.
(WEEKDAYS) Coffee & Bacon Bap + 9 Holes - £14.00 pp Coffee & Bacon Bap + 18 Holes - £22.00 pp Coffee & 18 Holes + Main Course Meal - £26.00 pp WEEKEND OFFERS AVAILABLE From £25.00 PLEASE PHONE FOR DETAILS Phone 01794 323833 for bookings & enquiries 2016 GREAT VALUE SOCEITY PACKAGES FOR 18/27/36 HOLES Telephone 01794 322872 or visit website CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Coffee, 18 Holes of Golf, 2 Course Christmas Meal £32.00 per person
Tel.No. 02392 263388 w w w. w a t e r l o o v i l l e g o l f cl u b . c o . u k
Golf Academy
Ryedown Lane, East Wellow, Romsey, Hampshire SO51 6BD
www.wellowgolfclub.co.uk
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MAURITIUS ISLAND PARADISE
A tropical island, with beautiful white sandy beaches, waving palm trees and gentle breezes, with a luxurious hotel and golf courses in abundance; described as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean; Mauritius is indeed an island paradise. For those looking for that something special, you need to look no further than the Four Seasons Golf Resort at Anahita Mauritius, Beau Champ. The resort is a combination of the unusual, the natural and the modern, with rustic charm but at the same time luxurious. It is located on the site of a former sugar plantation, and is situated on the east coast of the island, it is home to the Four Seasons Golf Club, designed by Ernie Els. The course, which can be stretched to 7500 yards from the back tees, has five sets of tees to cater for every level of player, and is carefully woven into the landscape of this tropical sanctuary. It has been designed to preserve the coastline’s natural beauty, and protect the native flora and fauna. There are spectacular panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, intriguing rocky outcrops and “jaw dropping” views of the mountains, with lush vegetation and beautiful turquoise lagoons fringed with palm trees. The six stunning Oceanside holes offer one of the world’s most beautiful finishing stretches, the last fairway is flanked by lagoons to the left and stone ruins to the right, to a final green surrounded by bunkers, it is the ultimate challenge. Ernie Els himself describes the 18th hole as one of the best finishing holes in the world. Before the round you can warm up on the huge driving range, which stretches to 350 yards, and sharpen the short game on the putting and chipping greens, or the nine target holes with bunkers. If your game needs a little attention, Professionals Keith Joseph and Pierre Noel Quirin are on hand to solve all the problems. The Academy boasts state of the art equipment, the ultimate in video and computerised swing analysis. The
Blyth Reid
shop is stocked with the very latest branded golf apparel, shoes, clubs and accessories, everything you could possibly require. At the conclusion of the round you can retire to the Il Forno restaurant for a relaxed lunch and to savour the panoramic views of the 18th green and the lagoon. There are three other restaurants, Acquapazza, Beau Champ and Bamboo, as well as the “O” Bar. The top class chefs provide multinational selection of food, with a choice of Italian, Indian, and Chinese and naturally typical fayre from Mauritius, the menus are as diverse as the island itself. Every thought has been given to providing the guest with the perfect holiday, you can laze in the warm waters of the ocean, swim in one of the four swimming pools, or play tennis or tone up in the fitness centre. Bicycles are available for those wishing to explore under their own steam, and for more meditative sessions there are yoga classes for residents. Snorkelling excursions are
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arranged for those wishing to experience the delights of the undersea world of the tropics and if you are impressed by the menu, you can join in the cookery classes given by the resort chefs. It is no surprise that a resort of this quality has attracted the attention of the major golf Tours. In December The Mauritius Golf Masters at Anahita welcomed some of the biggest names in professional golf by invitation to the event, which is the highlight of the calendar. It is the only invitation event held on the island and has a history of eminent champions, including Nicholas Colsaerts, Gregory Havret, and last year’s winner Max Orrin. It will be the perfect way to set the scene in readiness for the Mauritius Masters to be held in the Spring of 2016. This is the only tri-sanctioned event covering the European Tour, the Sunshine Tour and the Asian Tour, which will guarantee a strong field. The organisation of the event will be in the very capable hands of Blyth Reid, the Director of Golf at Four Seasons, who has held the position since his arrival on the island. Blyth,
a senior PGA professional himself, came to Four Seasons in August 2012, bringing a wealth of experience at some of the most famous venues in the world, Open Championship host Turnberry, The Grove, and in South Africa at Fancourt and the Penzula Club, as well as a spell in the Awali Club in Bahrain. The Four Seasons Resort will satisfy your every wish, whether you stay in one of the superb guest rooms or one of the villas, which range from 2 bedrooms to five bedrooms, with the Royal Residences at the top of the list. The staff provide the level of service that is simply superb, and do so with that very important smile and a conviction that they take great satisfaction in ensuring your stay is the very best possible. Mauritius is very special, and the Four Seasons at Anahita would ensure you make the most of it. For more information visit the website: www.fourseasons.com/mauritius Peter Llewellyn
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DECEMBER 2015
HAYLING GOLF CLUB
• • • • • • • • •
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Links Lane, Hayling Island. PO11 0BX 02392 464446 www.haylinggolf.co.uk
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Play golf all winter on our fast draining course
WINTER SPECIAL OFFERS (1st November 2015 — 31st March 2016)
SOCIETIES
Came Down Golf Club Challenging Golf amidst Dorset’s Stunning coast and countryside Stunning views across Dorchester and Weymouth bay Ideal and memorable Society/Corporate Location
PACKAGES FROM ONLY ÂŁ29pp
(Minimum 12 players) From £49pp — Tuesday & Wednesday (coee, 18 holes, meal) See website for further menu choices
WINTER 4 BALL SPECIAL (Max 8 players) 18 Holes — sandwiches & chips £51pp 18 Holes — Chef’s dish of the day £53pp
GREEN FEES Contact Matthew Staveley on 01305 813494 Email: manager@camedowngolfclub.co.uk www.camedowngolfclub.co.uk
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1st November 2015 — 31st March 2016 Monday — Thurs £50 Friday – Sun £55
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Chteau Les Merles
Chateau des Vigiers
olf in Northern France has been popular for a number of years, the ease of popping across the Channel from Dover to Calais or from Portsmouth to Caen or St Malo has made the long weekend break very popular. With the improved services from regional airports, it is also become convenient to pop to France and explore a little further afield, with all the same attractions, and the added bonus o excellent food and wine. The Dordogne is well served with flights from Southampton to Bergerac and Bordeaux, opening up a good selection of golf courses to sample. When making a plan with destination Bergerac, there are three or four locations which have that something special.
Vignes, a tribute to the twenty seven hectares of vines which produce one hundred thousand bottles of fine wine each year. It is a unique feature of the golf shop that you can stock up with wine to bring back after your visit. I recommend that you take full advantage of all the room you have to pack samples of the wine.
G
Chateau Des Vigiers was the brainchild of Elisabeth and Lars Urban Petersson, they came on holiday from Sweden in 1989 and fell in love with the Perigord region, so much so that they purchased a property for their second home at Mussidan. Lars formed a consortium with some old friends from his Harvard Business School days to create an upmarket resort with a hotel and golf course. Chteau Les Merles
Chateau Les Merles is a beautiful refurbished small chateau in the Bergerac wine district, just a few kilometres from the airport. It has been lovingly re-built by the Van Grinsven family. The family actively run the establishment, and do it exceedingly well. The photographs give an indication of the beauty of the location, but the peace and quiet has to be experienced. Add to that a marvellous restaurant called La Bruyere Blanche with a Dutch master chef, and there are the ingredients of a wonderful short break. There is a nine hole golf course at the side of the chateau, it runs along the forest, where the wild life is abundant, it is even possible to see wild boar snuffling among the trees. The course is not long, but it is testing, with water and narrow fairways, just enough of a challenge for a holiday venue. Take the tennis racquets if there is room, be ready to use the fitness room and spa, or just hike and explore the surroundings, or drive around the villages.
HAVE CLUBS WILL TRAVEL A TALE OF TWO CASTLES with a difference. A sixteenth century chateau in a unique setting, surrounded by golf courses, vineyards and orchards, a blaze of colour when the blossom is on the trees. The hotel itself has forty spacious individual bedrooms all overlooking the course, two dining locations, the superb gourmet restaurant, “Les Feresques” and the brasserie “Le Chai” and all the facilities one
would associate with a luxury resort. A spa and beauty centre, a heated outdoor swimming pool, tennis court and a plethora of conference and banqueting rooms. This is indeed the place to come to be pampered, well fed and to be tested on the Donald Steel designed golf courses. There are now twenty seven holes, the original eighteen and a new nine recently opened. The three loops are appropriately named La Valle, Le Lac and Les
In addition to the chateau there is also the luxurious four-star hotel ‘Relais des Vigiers’ which was the final phase of Vigier's redevelopment work and has been designed specifically with golfers, families and business people in mind and has been built under strict “eco friendly” standards using only local and traditional materials. Each room offers a balcony or terrace with magnificent views overlooking the 450-acre estate while, as well as having three conference rooms, the new hotel also has a bar, breakfast room, swimming pool and fitness room. Whether you choose to enjoy the excellent golf, the Maria Galland Beauty Spa or simply savour the food, wine and this fascinating region, the decision will be rewarded to the full. Two chateaux, both of which were developed by families, neither of which were French, drawn to the region, one from Holland the other from Sweden, who successfully created resorts of convenience and quality that will stand the test of time, the perfect mixture.
Another prime location is the wonderful resort at Chateau des Vigiers, a short drive to the South West of the centre of Bergerac. The approach road opens a vista of blue skies, glistening lakes, rolling fairways with the chateau sitting majestically as the backdrop. The first impression will be difficult to forget, and a few days stay will prove to be just as memorable.
One small boutique style with fifteen rooms, the other with a combined total of eighty seven rooms, but both with a philosophy which places the enjoyment of the client at the heart.
Set in a region famous for wine, truffles, fois gras and history, this is a golfing destination
Chateau des Vigiers
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For more information visit the website: www.vigiers.com www.lesmerles.com Michael Rees
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LLANDRINDOD WELLS GOLF CLUB The best scenery and the best conditioned golf course in Mid Wales
Your perfect Spring / Summer day out
Society Packages from just £26pp Please call us on 01597 822247 or 07751 203949
Visit www.lwgc.co.uk or email: secretary@lwgc.co.uk
Lee-on-the-Solent Golf Club
AMPFIELD GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
WINTER OFFERS Introductory Membership… Ideal Christmas Present! Two Months Membership – Only £80.00 Includes Full Benefits: Unlimited Golf 7 Days a Week 10% Discount on Goods from Pro-Shop 10% Discount on Food & Drink Obtain a Recognised CONGU Handicap Join the Club following the introductory two months and we will deduct £80.00 from the annual subscription To be activated by 31st March 2016
FOUNDED 1905
Winter Warmer Breakfast & 18 Holes of Golf* Or 18 Holes of Golf & One Course Lunch* £15 Tuesday – Friday, £17 Saturday
WINTER FOURBALL SPECIAL Valid Monday - Friday. Subject to availability
Why not come and join us for a hearty full English breakfast and 18 holes of golf £100 per fourball Please contact the office on 02392 551170 to make your reservation
Breakfast available until 12 noon - Lunch available between 12-3pm *Choice of any option from Breakfast or Lunch menu up to the value of £7.00 All food is best, locally sourced, seasonal produce – freshly prepared Advanced booking required - Offer available until 31st March 2016
For information on the above, please contact Club Secretary, Nikki Fowler, on 01794 368480 (Option 6) email: nikki@ampfieldgolf.com Ampfield Golf & Country Club Winchester Road Ampfield Nr Romsey Hants SO51 9BQ
www.ampfieldgolf.com
www.leegolf.co.uk
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Wentworth: the latest in a Great Chinese Takeaway? WENTWORTH, which was bought by the Beijing-based Reignwood Group just over a year ago, is to start charging £125,000 to join from 2017, compared to the current £15,000. Existing members are being told that they must also fork out £100,000, and annual subs are also to soar, from £8,000 to £16,000. Wentworth's purchase was the latest deal in what has been dubbed in some quarters as the 'Great Chinese Takeaway', as Beijing capital snaps up well-known British brands and landmarks.
New owners to charge £125,000 to join, with annual fees doubled
Ford came through Qualifying School last year, and this was his first season on the main tour. ‘I was very emotional afterwards. It is hard to stop it when you have been pushing it back for so long,’ he said. Billionaire Dr Chanchai Ruayrungruang: His Beijing-based group, Reignwood, bought Wentworth for £135 million last year
Wentworth: Renowned as the home of European golf and the unofficial birthplace of the Ryder Cup
Famous as the home of European golf and the unofficial birthplace of the Ryder Cup, Wentworth has many celebrities among the well-heeled, including Sir Bruce Forsyth and Sir Michael Parkinson. Other celebrity members include Strictly Come Dancing’s Anton Du Beke and veteran comedian Jimmy Tarbuck. An insider told The Mail on Sunday that the club's Chinese bosses expect only 250 present members out of a total of 3,000 to remain after the price increases. A source said they will be replaced by 600 'ultra high net worth' individuals – those with assets of more than £20 million each. Sir Michael Parkinson, who has been a member with his wife Mary for more than
Left, Sir Michael Parkinson branded the decision as 'barmy'. Right, Peter Alliss, who said: ‘It's a jigsaw puzzle at the moment’
30 years, said: 'It's a cull and it saddens and angers me to see an iconic golf club treated in this way.’
'The members will be bitterly disappointed. Golf has suffered from accusations of elitism and snobbery and this is a very backward step.’ BBC golf commentator Peter Alliss said: ‘It's unheard of (the cost of the debenture plan), in this country anyway, and unheard of in the whole of Europe I would think, although years ago in the Far East and some clubs in the United States have had this sort of thing.
‘Whether it will work in Wentworth I really don't know. ‘The idea, I'm told, is the club wants to have a very good relationship with those who have houses on the estate, but a lot of them are from overseas, from Asia and Russia and other places. It's a jigsaw puzzle at the moment and I wonder how many pieces will fall into place.’
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‘I had to keep those thoughts at bay and focus on the single shot in front of me and that's what I'm most proud of."
Andy’s on a winning roll
Well-heeled
A spokesman for the Virginia Water-based club said it would be investing significantly to enhance and improve its three championship courses.
Ford had started the week 118th in the Race to Dubai, and says he had doubts about whether he would be able to remain on the Tour: ‘I was always in a good position but the thoughts build as the week goes on,’ he told BBC Radio Kent.
‘You have to accept you are nervous and the mind will wander. It was heightened even more as you know what it means. People asked me whether, on the 18th green, I knew what the scenario was and what I needed to do. It was the last hole of the year so there was no comeback.
It was being reported that unless existing Wentworth members fall in line with the scheme, they will be kicked out within a year as oligarchs and foreign millionaires move in.
The club on the Wentworth estate, in the heart of the Surrey stockbroker belt, has grand houses which are home to Middle Eastern royalty, international business tycoons, professional golfers and celebrities.
MATT Ford has held on to his European Tour card – and he’s quite emotional about it. The 37-year-old from Bearstead finished tied for seventh place at the Hong Kong Open to secure a top-110 finish in the Race to Dubai and his card for 2016.
More than 500 Chinese firms have invested in the UK in recent years, buying MG Rover, black cab makers Manganese Bronze, the Lloyds Building in London, and Weetabix
Chinese-Thai billionaire Dr Chanchai Ruayrungruang’s Reignwood group, bought Wentworth for £135 million last year from restaurant boss Richard Caring. The company pledged to keep the course's 'unique culture'.
Matt’s still on the card
The future base of the European Tour, which runs all professional golf tournaments in Europe from its headquarters at Wentworth estate, is unclear. Wentworth is also the venue for the prestigious annual BMW PGA Championship in May. Peter Alliss added: 'I don't know if they're bringing an Asian philosophy to Britain. I believe, rather old-fashionedly, if you have a wonderful restaurant with the best chef around, it's no good if you're only doing ten dinners a week.
'It's a magnificent club, but I don't know where the money's going to come from to pay all the staff. Who's going to use all the magnificent gym facilities? Y
ENGLAND’S Andy Sullivan failed to secure first place in his first 84 appearances on the European Tour. Now he can’t stop winning. Sullivan, 29, cruised to a nine-shot victory in the Portugal Masters to become the first three-time winner on the European Tour this season. Victory moved him into the top 50 in the world rankings and 15th on this season's European ladder. He went into the final round with a five-shot lead, and a closing five-under 66 showed a very clean pair of heels to the opposition at Vilamoura, finishing on 23 under. Compatriot Chris Wood, from Bristol, was second on 14 under after a 68, with Anthony Wall, Trevor Fisher and Eduardo de la Riva another shot back in joint third.
ou're not going to get many 75-year-olds leaping about in the gym.
Sullivan, from Nuneaton, also won the South African Open in January and the Joburg Open two months later.
'There are very few people who have £100,000 to piddle away on their pleasures.'
‘It's just absolutely incredible,’ he said. ‘To lead from day one right through the final day is nothing I've ever experienced before.’
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FERNDOWN BH22 8BU
119 GOLF LINKS ROAD
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GOLF CLUBS AND DRIVING RANGES
JB Corrie & Co Ltd Frenchmans Road Petersfield Hampshire GU32 3AP 01730 237100 info@jbcorrie.co.uk www.jbcorrie.co.uk
BALL STOP FENCING
V
JB Corrie & Co Ltd Signal Box Road Blairgowrie Scotland PH10 6ER 01250 873989 jbcscotland@jbcorrie.co.uk www.jbcorrie.co.uk
VISUALLY APPEALING
Corrie Fore Golf Fencing Come and play Peter Allissʼs favourite course.
Winter Warmer £50pp or £180 4ball Coffee & bacon bap on arrival and 18 holes on our Championship Course. Available Tuesday and Friday from 1 November 2015 to 31 March 2016.
Corrie Fore The Corrie Fore fencing system has been developed for golf clubs to protect their employees, members, guests and their vehicles. Comprising of hollow section posts braced with a top rail and clad with 25mm x 25mm golf ball netting. • Cost effective • Installed by our experienced fitters • Golf ball stop netting • Hollow Section posts • Visually appealing • Protect people and cars from stray golf balls
Friday and Sunday Night Special Golf Break Offer - ONLY £60pp 18 holes on day of arrival • 3 course dinner Overnight accommodation • Full English breakfast 18 holes on day of departure
Green Fee Special ONLY - £18 (From 1.00pm Daily)
www.jbcorrie.co.uk Golf Academy
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Michael goes the long way to break record THEY say everything's bigger in Texas - and that even applies to golf clubs now. Dallas native Michael Furrh has set a new world record for the farthest shot with the longest usable driver.
the physics department at the local university, and they told me, mathematically, I shouldn't be able to hit the ball more than about 45 to 50 yards with this club.’
Furrh, 47, a golf professional and entertainer, broke his 2014 Guinness World Record in spectacular fashion, hitting the ball a whopping 87 yards with a 22' ¾"driver. Furrh, who builds his own clubs using steel-shaft extensions, said: ‘I actually consulted with
Furrh uses long golf clubs as an entertainment tool in his golf shows and has raised more than $54,000 for charities in the last three years. He added: ‘The whole idea of hitting the ball with the longest golf club started at one of my golf entertainment shows. We
were on a par-five and my boss said to me: “I don't think you have enough club” and he handed me an eight-foot driver. I managed to hit the ball about 250 yards. It was kind of a punchline but that's where it all started.’ Since then, he has been making and using longer and longer clubs to keep tackling the 112 Guinness world records relating to golf - some serious, and some outrageous.
OPPORTUNITY KNOX! BEFORE the WGC-HSBC Champions tournament, Scot Russell Knox was world number 85 and seventh reserve for the event.
Phil and coach Butch in split AFTER eight years together, Phil Mickelson has split from swing coach Butch Harmon. Mickelson, pictured above with Harmon and the Claret Jug, won two of his five Majors with 72-year-old Harmon as part of his team. But he has gone two full seasons without a win. ‘I've learned a great deal from him in our eight years together,’ said the 45-year-old, whose last win was at The Open in 2013. ‘It's just that at the moment I need to hear new ideas from a different perspective.’ Mickelson also won the 2010 Masters with Harmon as well as 12 of his 42 PGA Tour victories, although he has dropped to 25 in the world. Harmon said: ‘I've thoroughly enjoyed working with Phil and we've had great success together. Helping him win the Open Championship in 2013 was one of the pinnacles of my career. I see nothing wrong with him seeking advice from another source. We're great friends and always will be.’ BBC golf correspondent Iain Carter commented: ‘It is easy to understand Mickelson's decision. He is hitting the ball further off the tee, but he has struggled for accuracy. And there has been a significant drop in the number of greens he hits in regulation.’
After it, he had become the first of his nation to win a WGC, and looking back with wonder at the maiden tour victory which secured him a first-time spot in the Masters in April. And on the horizon was the possibility of being considered for a coveted place on the European Ryder Cup team. The 30-year-old had hardly finished his final round four-under round than he was approached by Keith Waters of the European Tour, who handed him a business card and said to give him a call if he had any questions regarding tour membership.
‘You can also look forward to a call from Darren Clarke,’ Waters told him. The win gives Knox a European Tour exemption until the end of the 2018 season, although he is not currently a member and is based on the PGA Tour in America.This would make him ineligible for next year's Ryder Cup at Hazeltine but he said: ‘Obviously it's going to be a goal of mine to make the European Ryder Cup team. But I have no idea where I stand or what I need to do to make the team. But I look forward to finding out and giving it a run.’ It is a fair bet that he would be checking the phone number on that business card and giving it a call very soon.
Luke hosts Masters LUKE Donald will host next year’s British Masters at The Grove, in his home county of Hertfordshire. The Hemel Hempstead-born 37-year-old succeeds fellow Briton Ian Poulter, who hosted the 2015 event at Woburn.The Grove has held a European Tour event only once before, when Tiger Woods won a World Golf Championship tournament there in 2006.
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From nowhere, WGC victor Russell could contend for Ryder Cup spot
Russell Knox: First tour victory takes him to the Masters – and perhaps beyond
BIG 3? NOT YET, SAYS SPIETH AMERICAN Jordan Spieth went back to the top of the world rankings with his seventh place in the WGC-HSBC Champions event. But the 22-year-old insisted it was too soon to say that he is part of a new ‘big three’ succeeding Tiger Woods in dominating world golf. Spieth secured both the Masters and U.S. Open this year, and has been bracketed with four-time Major winner Rory McIlroy and USPGA champion Jason Day as the exciting new triumvirate battling for top spot in the sport. Asked if the three of them are filling the vacuum left by the struggling and ailing Woods, Spieth told BBC Sport: ‘I think it's a bit soon. I think for Rory it's a bit different because he's been consistent for a number of years now. We've played solid golf for the past few years but in order to create an era you almost need a decade like this to really make a difference.
Jordan Spieth: ‘I think for Rory it is a bit different’
‘We have the potential to do it, but this was the first year of it.’ The Texan believes an enduring three-way rivalry depends on many influences.
"We are aware of it and it drives us but there's a lot of factors needed in order to create it," Spieth said.
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DECEMBER 2015
Alresford Golf Club
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2016 Golf Breaks from £83pp
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ALRESFORD IS WINTER GOLF AT ITS BEST! PACKAGE 1 Coffee & Bacon Roll on arrival 18 holes of Golf £29 PER PERSON
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Advanced bookings Only, minimum of 8 players for any of these packages. Offers valid from November 2015 – end of February 2016 Not available over Christmas and New Year periods
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Cheriton Road, Tichborne Down, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 0PN Tel : 01962 733746 Email:secretary@alresfordgolf.co.uk
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2016 GOLF BREAKS IN CORNWALL Situated just off the A30, in the beautiful county of Cornwall, Trethorne offers a challenging and picturesque 18-holes with friendly and relaxed Cornish hospitality.
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or centuries the region of Aquitaine in south west France was part of Great Britain, it was under the rule of the English monarchs. The independent kingdom of Aquitaine passed to France in 1137 when the duchess Eleanor of Aquitaine married Louis VII of France, but their marriage was annulled in 1152. When Eleanor's new husband became King Henry II of England in 1154, the area became an English possession, and the cornerstone of the so-called Angevin Empire. Aquitaine remained English until the end of the Hundred Years’ War in 1453, when it was annexed by France.
F
During the three hundred years the region was ruled by the Kings of England links between Aquitaine and England were strengthened, with large quantities of wine produced in southwestern France being exported to London, Southampton, and other English ports. In fact, so much wine and other produce was being exported to London and sold that by the start of the Hundred Years' War the profits from Aquitaine was the principal source of the English King's income. The region is well known to golfers, and has been so for centuries, the oldest golf club outside of the United Kingdom is at Pau, established by Scottish Regiments who remained in the area after the Peninsula War. Biarritz has long been a favourite of the English elite, and the quality of the many golf courses in that vicinity is well known to the modern golfing fraternity. Just north of Biarritz is the region of Landes, which can boast three simply magnificent golf courses, all within a short drive of each other. Three courses, each one of which is very different in nature, despite all being located close to the ocean. The three courses are Golf Hotel Blue Green Seignosse, Golf de Moliets and the oldest of them all Golf Club d’Hossegor. The Hotel Blue Green is the ideal location to base a stay to play the three courses, a short walk from the reception to the Pro shop and the first tee. The golf courses are along the Atlantic coastline, with the pine forests backing the dunes areas, giving superb combinations for the design of the golf holes, and giving the architect full license to test the player, with the wind an essential element of the test. Moliets is a short drive to the north of Biarritz, superb beaches for the non golfer and areas to walk or jog for the more energetic. The golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones in 1989 is a delight. From the back tees it is 6173 metres, it is a measure of the quality that it has hosted European Tour events. It is laid out in the forests of Les Landes, and the early holes are tree lined, with water in play on the 5th and 9th holes. The back nine goes out among the sand dunes for a testing stretch from the 12th to the 16th, before the return to
THE DELIGHTS OF AQUITAINE
the clubhouse. Jagged bunkers, first class putting surfaces, and all the strategic challenges offered by the typical Trent Jones design. For those with energy left after lunch, there is a delightful nine hole layout, six par 3’s, two par 4’s and one par 5, an ideal way to complete the day. Seignosse , adjacent to the Blue Green hotel, is another gem, designed by American architect Robert van Hagge in 1989. It has been nominated as the third best course in France, and the nineteenth best in Europe. The undulating layout, is enclosed by pines and cork oaks, has daunting water hazards as early as the second hole and the drive on the third hole, and intimidatingly for the 14th hole second shot. The doglegs and the changes in elevation are spectacular, enhancing the contoured greens which all seem to be well bunkered. It has been described as a masterpiece, and it is hard to disagree with that description. By contrast, Hossegor is a more reminiscent of traditional inland golf in Britain, where the hazards are the bunkers and the mature trees. Not surprising, since it was designed by Tom Morrison in 1930, who together with Open Champion Arnaud Massey and landscape painter Mr Bouhana, was the prime mover in the project. Part of the time of elegance, it continued until the War, when it ceased to function until it was revived again in 1950. The original quality was soon reinstated, and it is now a beautiful parkland course once again. The front nine crosses over the river at the third hole and runs out to the sixth where it turns for home through narrow tree lined fairways, the two par 3’s the 5th and 8th , both demanding accurate tee shots. The tenth brings you back to the clubhouse. The back eight holes see more changes in elevation, and the uphill 14th hole is a picture. At 6006 meters from the medal tees, it is not long, but the narrowness of the fairways make it a good test of driving and approach play. It is worth making the journey simply for the quality of the food to be enjoyed with a glass of wine in the autumn sunshine on the patio when the round is over.
Golf Academy
A golfing experience not to be missed, played over three courses that will leave a lasting impression. This area is the perfect place for a Spring or Autumn golfing break, magnificent golf courses, first class local seafront areas with superb restaurants of every type, and in no way crowded, idyllic in every way. For more information on the three featured golf courses visit the websites: www.bluegreen.com/seignosse www.golfmoliets.com www.golfhossegor.com Michael Rees
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DECEMBER 2015
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TEE TIMES
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DECEMBER 2015
NEW BOSS SURVEYS THE TOUR LANDSCAPE KEITH Pelley, new chief executive of the European Tour has been voicing his thoughts about several issues which have come his way during his first few months in the job. Speaking to the Daily Mail’s Derek Lawrenson, he spoke about his call to allow Rory McIlroy to take part in the Race to Dubai series without being able to play the minimum number of events. He has seen Paul Casey basically rule himself out of playing in the 2016 Ryder Cup — unless he does a U-turn and rejoins the tour — while Ian Poulter had to rely on the generosity of American Rich Beem in giving up an invitation to play in Hong Kong to preserve his eligibility. Then Wentworth, where the tour is based, declared its intention to bring in the kind of swingeing price increases affordable only to the mega-rich. And there is his disclosure of the fact that he is looking into the possibility of reducing the minimum number of 13 events to become a European Tour member, which could see players such as McIlroy, Ian Poulter, Justin Rose and even Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowlers being seen alongside each other on the tour. 1. Turkish Airlines Open, being played against a backdrop of turmoil: I haven’t heard of any players worried about competing because of what’s going on. We’ve done our due diligence and we’re working with the local authorities to make sure everything goes smoothly. I don’t foresee any problems.
Conversation 2. Paul Casey: I had a wonderful conversation with Paul. He’s had a terrific season and is poised to return to the form that saw him enter the world’s top five. I garnered a lot of insight. We agreed to continue the conversation over the coming weeks.’
Keith Pelley: controversial call on Rory McIlroy
We didn’t just make the decision because it was Rory McIlroy. We went about it forensically. We got an MRI and the doctors’ reports, we sent them to an external doctor, we looked at all aspects of his schedule.
Gentlemen Given he had already made a commitment to play in a PGA Tour event, it clearly was not possible looking at all the evidence for him to make up the tournaments he missed due to his injury in July and get to 13 events. That is why it was actually an easy decision to make. And we got unwavering support from Danny Willett (second behind Rory in the Race to Dubai) who had significant dollars to lose in the bonus scheme. 5. Ian Poulter: ‘I think what happened in Hong Kong showed the gentlemen’s side of the sport. Rich Beem sent me a note saying it was in the best interests of the game that Poulter remained eligible for the Ryder Cup. How classy is that?
3. Tour Membership requirements: I’m going to defer my thoughts until a later date because we’re still having a number of discussions on the subject. I haven’t had a chance to meet all the top players yet. There has been a lot of listening on my part. But there will be a decision by the end of the year.
6. Wentworth: Our No 1 priority is having the best golf course for our best event, the BMW Championship, and so we’re delighted with the investment the club are making and their commitment to improvements. On the overall picture, I’m optimistic the game will continue to grow in Britain and worldwide, and we’re looking forward to playing a critical role in that.
4. Rory McIlroy: We’re a members’ organisation and inevitably not everyone will agree with every decision you make. But the way we went about it and explained it at the players’ meeting, I think people appreciated that.
7. Schedule for 2016: We’ll announce it soon and I’m happy with it. We’re now working on 2017 and 2018, so stay tuned for some exciting news. We’re the biggest tour outside America and over the next few years you’ll see us grow significantly.
Golf Academy
THE VALE RESORT’S JUNIOR GOLF TEAM TEE UP A DOUBLE WIN The Vale Resort’s junior golf team is celebrating a double victory after winning two consecutive regional golfing championships. The team, captained by Jack Wiggins, 16 from Tonyrefail, and made up of Grace Connelly, 14 from Miskin, Oliver Brown, 17 from Cowbridge, Morgan Grace, 16 from Glynneath, Ronan Oliver, 15 from Pontyclun and Ben Davies, 15 from Cardiff, achieved first place in the Welsh Junior Inter-Club Championships in Builth Wells this October, securing them a place at the Home Nations Inter-Club Championships in Andalucía, Spain in 2016. Securing a second victory, the Vale junior team, joined by Callaghan Smith, 13 from Miskin and Jordan Oliver, 13 from Pontyclun, went on to beat the experienced Neath junior team in four nail-biting games at the Glamorgan County East vs. West Final held at the Royal Porthcawl Golf Club in November. Clive Coombs, the Vale Resort’s golf operations manager, said: “The junior team has proved themselves to be formidable golfing opponents with their latest round of success at a regional level. Each player brought individual strengths to the teams and they played some fantastic rounds of golf throughout both competitions.
“We are incredibly proud of how hard the teams have worked this year and the double victory reflects the level of investment the Vale Resort puts into nurturing our junior
members through the golf Academy to be the great golfing stars of the future. “We are all looking forward to the Home Nations Inter-Club Championships in Andalucía and hope to repeat our success of 2013 and bring home the trophy!” Speaking of the double victory, team captain, Jack Wiggins, said: “I feel honoured to be the captain of such incredible teams who all gave their best efforts in some tricky games against the country’s top junior players. These two wins give us all the confidence we need ahead of the next level of championships in Spain next year.” The teams are made up of players who have come through the Vale Resort’s Junior Golfing Academy, which has produced young golfing stars such as the European Amateur Championship Cup winner, Rhys Pugh. To celebrate the recent successes of the junior golfing team, the Vale is currently offering more than 50% off the Junior Membership subscriptions fee for the first year as part of a special Junior Golfing Membership Package. Open to young people aged between 8-18 years, it also includes free access to the Vale’s Academy Coaching Scheme, a copy of the Academy’s coaching manual and four free group coaching lessons. For more information on the Junior Golf Programme, please visit www.vale-hotel.com/golf
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DECEMBER 2015
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TT DEC Issue 175_Layout 1 22/11/2015 17:45 Page 27
DECEMBER 2015
TEE TIMES
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TEE TIMES
DECEMBER 2015
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DECEMBER 2015
Monthly tuition to get you on top of your game by Advanced PGA Lady Professional, Katie Dawkins
TEE TIMES
J U LY 2 0 0 6
Based at Meon Valley Golf and Country Club
COWDRAY PARK GOLF CLUB Everywhere you want to be
CAPTURE THAT XMAS CONSISTENCY The most common plea I hear? “All I want is a bit of consistency!” So where does this illusive trait come from? How does a golfer suddenly become consistent? Yes technically you need to have a solid set-up which in turn leads to a repeating swing. But I also think consistency has a lot to do with a golfer’s reaction to a poor shot and an understanding of WHY bad shots and indeed WHY good shots happen. Having a greater understanding of how you swing the golf club and what your bad habits are will help you no end when it comes to stringing a decent score together. Knowing what causes your iffy shots will help you recover quicker on the golf course. You will avoid the consecutive blow up holes. Rather than the feeling of despair and the not knowing what causes your scorecard collapse, you should feel a little reassured that you know why things go bad and you can do a few drills/practice swings to correct yourself. A big chunk of consistency comes from being able to manage your bad shots on the course. Firstly you need to know WHY. Have a lesson and write notes afterwards. Leave knowing why the shots happen. Make sure you have what I’d call a parachute drill- something you can do between shots that will remind your swing how to behave, or a check in your setup to keep on top of bad habits. Build this into your pre-shot routine if you need to. For example if someone gets too quick and bunched up at impact a few swings with 2 clubs together should help stretch that follow through out and smooth the rhythm. It’s no good getting too technical out on the golf course as thinking too much about too many positions and moving parts will really wreck your tempo. Instead I love drills that fix a handful of issues without having to think much. It is so important to address why the shot went wrong STRAIGHT AWAY. Don’t be trying to fix it on the next one as you should already be visualising where you want the next shot to go. Not “why did my last shot fail”. Having acknowledged what went wrong and done your "Parachute drill" MOVE ON. Take only positives with you when you go to play your next shot. Adopt an air of complete calm.
The right hand The right hand is often blamed for all sorts of golfing woes, everything from poor chips and pitches to wild hooks. This is because the golfer feels that he/she has over used it when these bad shots happen, feeling as though the right hand reacts violently at the bottom of the swing. Many golfers who feel this spend their time trying to keep the right hand out of the shot. This only exacerbates the problem. The point is that many of these golfers haven’t learned to use the right hand correctly. I have improved so many pitching actions and golf swings by teaching golfers how to use the right hand more effectively. In last month’s article I talked about the left hand grip and how important it is to grip in such a way that you are able to fully hinge the wrist without twisting the clubface.
For a slightly different gift this year see my ART website www.katiedawkinsart.co.uk Vouchers available!
We’ve all rushed to our ball in a bid to erase the previous shocker from our memories. The rushing usually results in another poor shot. Having reached your ball take a moment to step back. Composed, go through your routine making some good practice swings, then step into the PLAY ZONE refreshed and with good swing thoughts and visuals in your mind. Winter isn’t a time for your game to go into hibernation, if the weather truly is awful out there practice at home. Simply thinking your way around the golf course. Shot by shot, hole by hole. Sat by the woodburner, your favourite beverage beside you and the Winter weather whirling about outside; Visualise yourself playing well and believe me you will be doing some stirling work for your game come Spring Time. If you would like to give a friend or family member the gift of consistency for Christmas I can do gift vouchers. Simply email me katiedawkinsgolf@hotmail.co.uk Special Winter offer of 4x30minute lessons plus a planning session for £99. HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE, I wish you all good health and good golf in 2016.
This enables the club to be more easily held under control throughout the swing and returned to square at impact. Obviously the left hand is only half of the equation. The placement of the right hand is also of paramount importance if you want to play great golf.
If you are holding the club in the same fashion as you would hold a golf ball to throw it, you would have a near perfect right hand golf grip. Pick up a golf ball as if to throw it; see how similar it looks to the picture of a good right hand grip. To make the right hand grip ideal, the placement of the thumb is crucial. It must be in a position that supports the club at the top of the backswing and allows the right wrist to hinge correctly.
Not only can it help with the control of the club during the swing and add a great amount of power to the shots, it can also have a very positive effect in the short game when placed correctly.
Notice in the picture of Tiger Wood’s magnificent grip that the bottom of the thumb is placed slightly towards the left side of the grip and that the rest of the thumb is connected to the side of the hand. The right forefinger looks a bit like a question mark “?”.
If you take a close look at the grips of great golfers such as Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and Ernie Els you will notice that their right hand grips look very similar - this is no accident. Luckily for them they had good coaches when they were young.
If the thumb stays contacted to the side of the hand and the contact on the left thumb remains intact, the club will be well supported as the swing changes direction. Many golfers make the mistake of placing the thumb directly on top of the grip.
Tiger thinks of his right hand as his power hand. Ben Hogan wished he’d had three right hands! Obviously they aren’t trying to hold back!!!!
This position tends to lock the wrist up and prevent it from hinging freely. Believe it or not I have seen dramatic improvements in the ball striking of some pupils, just by better placement of the right thumb.
A long hitter named Mike Austin hit the longest drive ever recorded in PGA Tournament play. At the age of sixty four he hit a ball 515 yards. He felt that he was throwing the club through the ball. So what makes a right hand grip effective? The truth is that a great right hand grip is entirely natural - yes natural.
Golf Academy
May I take this opportunity to wish all my readers a Merry Christmas. If you need any help with any department of your game, please don't hesitate to contact me either through my website: www.mbtourcoach.com or by telephone M: 07787 887578. Martin Butcher
BLACKMOOR GOLF CLUB
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