The PGA Professional magazine - March 2020

THE

PROFESSIONAL

THE OFFICIAL PGA MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE

Volume 16 Issue 2 March 2020

INFLUENCING THE INDUSTRY

NEW MEMBERSHIP STRUCTURE UNVEILED

DISTANCE IMPACT? Report opens the debate

LET’S ROLL

Push and power trolleys

WINTER WARMERS

AW2020 fashion

STOCK ANSWERS

Improve your stock turn

SAFEGUARDING FOCUS

Understand the rules

50%

DISCOUN T FOR PGA MEM BERS USE COD E

BGS2010 9

15 - 16 MAY 2020

WYCOMBE AIR PARK, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

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CONTENTS FEATURES

INTERNATIONAL

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MEMBERSHIP STRUCTURE

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UNVEILED Further details around the new categories for existing and future PGA Professionals

GOING THE DISTANCE R&A and USGA conclusions on the impact of distance

NEW HORIZONS Elliott Gray, the Director of Operations for Golf Saudi, has enjoyed a successful overseas career

TRAVEL

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MEMBERS OFFERS Selection of end of season getaways

FEELING THE HEAT

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Overseas pro-ams are a great way for your members to experience a golf break with a competitive edge

APHRODITE HILLS Focus on PGA National, Cyprus

AMENDOEIRA Portugal’s finest

COACHING

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DRIVING WOMEN’S GOLF

INSIDE THE PGA

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FORWARD From theory to practice

Editor: jane.carter@pga.org.uk PGA News and Features: steven.carpenter@pga.org.uk adrian.milledge@pga.org.uk Equipment and Trade Editor: nick.bayly@pgapublishing.co.uk Advertising Sales: ed.beale@pgapublishing.co.uk Recruitment Advertising: recruitment@pga.org.uk Contributors: Phil Barnard Antje Derks; Ben Foster and Mark Pilling Photographers: Getty Images Adobe Stock Production Assistant: Kelly Lewis Design: Andrew Beavis PGA National Headquarters Centenary House The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B76 9PT Tel: 01675 470 333 Fax: 01675 477 888

ROBERT MAXFIELD This month from The PGA’s Chief Executive

PGA NEWS A round up of what’s happening across The PGA and its regions

PGA RETAIL

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THE OFFICIAL PGA MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE

TRADE NEWS Latest product launches and industry news

BETTER BY DESIGN The humble trolley has become a must-have for your customers

MARKETING

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THE MOST POWERFUL THREE

STOCK ANSWERS Top tips to improve your stock turnover

COLD COMFORT

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LETTERS IN GOLF How to use ‘PGA’ boost your marketing

YOUR BRAND Are you making the most of your retail space?

Key pieces for A/W 2020

MEMBERSHIP

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YOUR BENEFITS A selection of special deals and offers secured for you by The PGA

RECRUITMENT

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SITUATIONS VACANT

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The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited accepts no responsibility for the products or services offered by the advertisers in this publication nor does it necessarily agree with any views expressed, statements or claims made by the advertisers in this publication. ©The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited 2020 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photography and recording, without the written permission of the copyright holder, application for which should be addressed to the copyright holder (PGA). ®PGA is a registered trademark of The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited Prostate Cancer UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1005541) and in Scotland (SC039332). Registered company 02653887 www.facebook.com/thepga www.linkedin.com/company/ professional-golfers-association www.twitter.com/thepga www.instagram.com/thepga www.youtube.com/thepga

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The Perfect Match

Centenary House, The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B76 9PT www.pga.info PGA is a registered trademark of The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited.

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FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE

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he first few months of any year are a busy time for the Association as we hold our annual tour of Regional Meetings.

Storm Ciara did its best to derail us and meant the postponement of the Scottish and Irish meetings until this month but did not deter more than 300 of you from attending those in the rest of the country.

For those of you not able to attend the Regional Meetings, the most important topic for discussion was the unveiling of our new Membership structure. This is undoubtedly the most important step we have taken as an Association in recent years. We received a positive response at every meeting and are now working hard to bring the detail together over

game and the preparation of golf courses.

Your views and your ability to reach a wider audience as the face of golf at so many facilities, makes the PGA Professional a vital part in the industry’s communication. Through you we can reach those both running facilities and playing the game. We are supporting the R&A led Golf Course 2030, the sustainability initiative launched in 2018. Please do take the time to look at the website for the support and resources which will provide important insight into managing golf courses in the future.

Explaining to members how their golf course is being managed through the changing climate is of enormous value in the efforts to widen the understanding.

Another important topic which will directly affect the role of the PGA Professional both as a

“

Climate change is making itself felt more and more and as an industry we are beginning to work collaboratively to tackle some of the issues and provide you with the resources to better educate your golf club members and visitors about the effect climate change is having on the game and the preparation of golf courses.

the coming months. More detail is provided in this issue of the magazine and again we ask that you look out for future information in the magazine and the new PGA website.

We hope to be back out to the Membership in late Spring with the next stage of the roll out but in the meantime my thanks for all your messages of support for the steps we are taking.

Communication is important in any membership organisation and the face to face meetings offer an opportunity to hear from Members directly about our plans and the issues you are facing in your day to day businesses. We are only to aware of the difficulties many of you have been experiencing through this long, wet winter. Course closures- particularly in the North, Scotland and Ireland- have been amongst the longest we have experienced for some time.

Climate change is making itself felt more and more and as an industry we are beginning to work collaboratively to tackle some of the issues and provide you with the information to better educate your golf club members and visitors about the effect climate change is having on the The PGA Professional

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coach and a retailer, is the Distance Debate and the recently published R&A and USGA report.

Hundreds of PGA Professionals from around the world contributed and it makes interesting reading. There is no doubt the debate will continue for some time yet and the governing bodies quite rightly will be taking their time and seeking viewpoints from many sectors of the industry. As the people working at the forefront of the game, keeping up to date with this topic will be important and we will reach out with information and to seek your views as the debate progresses.

This month our face to face communication continues when we will be meeting with PGA Professionals as we stage our second Members’ Networking event in Germany. These are important months ahead for all Professionals working in Europe. We are keen to hear your views.

Robert Maxfield Chief Executive

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FEATURE

NEW MEMBERSHIP STRUCTURE TO PROVIDE SUPPORT AND INFLUENCE Following last autumn’s announcement that The PGA was reviewing its membership structure, it has now released further detail around the new categories for existing and future PGA Professionals. Here we outline why the Association is taking these steps and what it means for current Members.

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he PGA’s announcement last year that it was reviewing its membership structure to futureproof the organisation and the role of the PGA Professional into the next decade and beyond, was widely welcomed by existing Members, those lapsed and the industry at large.

The driving force behind the new structure is borne out of The PGA’s desire to become the leading professional organisation at the heart of the golf industry- and with it the ability to

directly influence and support club owners, employers, and golfers to the benefit of Members.

Alan White, Chairman of The PGA said: “This is about influence through growing the support and value to our Membership. We need to impact what is happening in the industry right now and in the future.”

With an increased ability to influence, comes clear and immediate benefits to Members now and in the future: • The PGA will have a greater influence

on the wider industry, facilitating a better understanding of the role and value of a PGA Professional to employers and consumers alike • To open more career pathways for existing Members and those coming into membership in the future • To create relevance and specialism for PGA Professionals to better promote themselves and their levels of competence and expertise • To provide cutting-edge support and Member benefits including tailored CPD, career development and recruitment.

THE MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES There will now be three distinct membership offeringsPGA Professional- this category will see the existing membership maintained as the foundation membership with core qualifications and principles remaining unchanged

PGA Membership Structure and Pathway PGA MASTER

SPECIALIST

SPECIALIST

EXPERTISE ADVANCED

EXPERTISE ADVANCED

EXECUTIVE EXPERTISE SENIOR

PGA TRAINING PROGRAMME

PGA TRAINEE MEMBER

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FEATURE

PGA Coach- a membership for qualified PGA Professionals whose core work and majority of time is spent in coaching and potential new members coming through the PGA educational pathways who wish to specialise in coaching from the outset.

PGA Golf Manager- a specialised category for qualified PGA Professionals managing and operating a golf facility and potential new members who wish to specialise in golf operational management The PGA has followed its core principles in the roll out of the new categories. The focus has been not to undermine but enhance the rights and benefits of existing Members. Quality standards are also at the top of the agenda with The PGA focussed on maintaining the standards, reputation and quality it has worked hard to achieve.

SPECIALISATION AND ASSESSMENT It is recognised that with the introduction of the new categories, the bulk of the membership will remain in the PGA Professional category and this will remain at the core of the Association.

Each of the categories will offer up to four levels based on a combination of competence, expertise and achievement Whilst all Members are rightly regarded as skilled coaches, the new PGA Coach category offers Members the

chance to specialise and over time move through four attainment levels, each demonstrating their level of expertise.

An employer or a golfer will be able to identify a PGA Coach with the competence and knowledge to develop their game whether a beginner, or elite golfer. A similar set of competencies will be developed for the new PGA Golf Manager.

Whilst changes to the Membership framework are focussed very much on existing members and impacting their careers and opportunities now, there are also plans to develop new pathways into membership for all the categories. These will be expanded upon in future months.

SUPPORTING THE INDUSTRY The new membership framework will undoubtedly have positive benefits for the industry at large. The ambitions are for the Association to become the number one workforce development and recruitment organisation in golf and in doing so establish the ‘quality standard’ for specific roles within the industry around the professional, coaching and golf facility management.

The different categories and increased educational pathways mean the PGA Member will now be more skilled, educated and well trained than ever beforefitting for a modern-day industry.

Importantly the development

of expertise will continue beyond qualification with ongoing personal and professional development and targeted educational programmes benefitting PGA Professionals and the employers.

Recruitment services will be a key support function of the Association, both for Members and employers. Facilities will be able to identify PGA Professionals who have the most relevant skill set for their business such as coaching expert for Head Professional role, or PGA Golf Manager for the General Manager role BUILDING TO LAUNCH The full membership framework for all the categories is currently being fully scoped including but not limited to entry criteria, the application process and the services and benefits offered to all categories.

TIMELINES ARE:• Summer 2020 existing members will have the opportunity to remain within the core PGA Professional category or specialise within the PGA Coach and PGA Golf Manager categories.

• Autumn 2020 Lapsed members will be invited back into the Association in any of the three categories subject to them meeting the entry criteria.

• Early 2021 the wider industry will be invited to apply for membership to the Business Management Group. ●

THE WIDER INDUSTRY AND THE PGA Alongside the new membership categories, The PGA will be launching a Business Management Group, and offering the opportunity to the wider golf industry to engage with the Association.

The creation of a PGA endorsed Business Management Group is most likely to create discussion within the industry.

This is expected to open its doors in early 2021. Membership will encompass all levels of management from executive to junior and in all sectors of the golf industry. Golf clubs, golf hotels and resorts, golf operations, expanding

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to golf retail, equipment, specialist management roles.

It will be a very distinct product from the 3 PGA professional Memberships with different access criteria, benefits and services.

But importantly it will provide a structure for those people already working in the industry to formally engage with The PGA. Robert Maxfield, Chief Executive, said: “It is a fundamental principle of everything we are doing that we do not undermine the rights and benefits of existing members but enhance them. The Business Management Group offers a twoway channel to the marketplace

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where we can direct thinking, education and the status of employees- our Members.

“The vision is for it to become the leading network within the golf industry for game development, knowledge sharing, networking opportunity, career development, employment and recruitment.

Everyone working in the industry will have the opportunity to become a member, but each will need to meet minimum standard of criteria for entry. We need to maintain the standards and reputation we have always set as an organisation and our Members have worked hard to achieve.”

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NEWS Super 60s heading to Tewkesbury Park

Raitt earns Staysure Tour card Andy Raitt booked his place on the 2020 Staysure Tour thanks to a stunning back nine performance on the final day of qualifying at Pestana Golf Resort, Portugal.

Raitt, who is attached to St Georges Hill Golf Club, Surrey, was looking to follow in the footsteps of fellow PGA Professionals David Shacklady and Paul Streeter who both progressed through Staysure Tour Qualifying School in 2018.

Scores of 69, 73 and 65 put former European Tour player Raitt in contention heading into the final round of qualifying. And after a slow start, the 50-yearold produced a scintillating performance on the back nine, which included an eagle at the par 5 12th, to finish fourth and claim one of five cards for the 2020 Staysure Tour.

The Staysure Tour, formerly known as the European Senior Tour, is a professional golf tour for members aged 50 and older.

Former Ryder Cup Captains Colin Montgomerie, Sam Torrance and Ian Woosnam are among the winners of the John Jacobs Trophy, which is awarded to the golfer who finishes first on the Staysure Tour Order of Merit each season.

The 2020 Staysure Tour begins next month with the Jordan Mixed Open at Ayla Golf Club.

Sponsorship boost Two big title sponsorships have been confirmed in the unveiling of the 2020 Tartan Tour schedule.

The Brewdog Northern Open will take place over the Old Course at Moray Golf Club in Lossiemouth on June 3-5, with the prize fund set to be in the region of £25,000. Paul Lawrie has confirmed his participation at a venue where Paul O’Hara stormed to a sevenshot success in 2017.

A strong field is also guaranteed for the Loch Lomond Whiskies Scottish PGA Championship, which will take place on September 1-4 (venue TBC).

The flagship event’s link up with Loch Lomond Whiskies is part of the Alexandria-based company adding The PGA to its list of international partners in a three-year deal (see page 8).

Shona Malcolm, The PGA’s Regional Manager for Scotland, said: “The introduction of new sponsors for the top pro-only events is a welcome boost and will take the prize fund to over £400,000.”

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Tewkesbury Park has agreed a three-year partnership to host The PGA’s Super 60s Championship until 2022.

Entries are now open for the event, which will take place on August 5-6 this year on The Deerpark, Tewkesbury Park’s 6,554 yard par-72 course.

Eighty pairs comprising a PGA pro and an amateur both aged 60 or older are expected to compete for the Super 60s trophy. There is an additional Super 70s trophy for pairs of golfers who are aged 70 or older.

There is a £10,300 prize fund for PGA Professionals playing in the 36-hole fourball Strokeplay event, in which male and female golfers compete equally.

Charles Hines, The PGA’s Head of National Tournaments, said: “In our summer 2019 assessment visit we found The Deerpark to be in superb condition, and the golf course will offer the ideal challenge to our PGA Professionals and their amateur partners.”

Staysure Tour heads to Argentario Argentario Golf Resort & Spa continues to reap the benefits of becoming a PGA National Italy after the Tuscany-based venue was selected to host a 2020 Staysure Tour competition.

The Senior Italian Open heads to Argentario for the first time from May 29-31, where the best players on Europe’s over-50s circuit will compete on the David Mezzacane and Baldovino Dassù-designed PGA National Golf Course. Visit www.pga.info for more information.

Enter the Pro-Captain Challenge Entries are now open for one of the most popular dates in the PGA tournament calendar - the 2020 SkyCaddie PGA Pro-Captain Challenge.

The 23rd staging of the tournament, which comprises of a PGA Professional and his or her club captain, will be staged at PGA National Italy – Argentario Golf Resort & Spa. Entry packs should have arrived at your club containing all the information required to ensure your club is represented at one of the one of the regional finals stages across the UK and Ireland. The successful pairing from each regional final will compete in the 36-hole grand final at the five-star resort in Tuscany. For more information visit www.pga.info.

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clubs entered the SkyCaddie PGA Pro-Captain Challenge in 2019 March 2020

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NEWS NEWS F E AT URE

Network in Germany

Loch Lomond Whiskies on board Loch Lomond Whiskies, the Official Spirit of The Open, has concluded a new agreement with The PGA to become a PGA Partner and the title sponsor of the Scottish PGA Championship.

The three-year deal will ensure PGA Members will have the opportunity to explore the full range of award-winning single malts created at the Loch Lomond Whiskies distillery in Alexandria, Scotland, which can trace its roots back to the early 1800’s.

One of the initiatives of the new partnership will see Loch Lomond Whiskies work with The PGA to sponsor monthly medals at golf clubs across the UK and Ireland, giving members the chance to win fantastic prizes, including

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tickets to The 150th Open Championship at St Andrews in 2021.

Participating clubs will receive a Loch Lomond Whiskies starter pack, including a selection of Loch Lomond Whiskies’ award-winning Single Malt Whiskies for members to win and to try in their club bar.

Commenting on the announcement, Liam Greasley, PGA Executive Director – Commercial, said: “This partnership will introduce our network to the range of Loch Lomond Whiskies and will find new and exciting ways to reward golfers in the UK and Ireland.”

A full programme of promotions will be announced throughout 2020.

The number of companies and organisations who have signed up to the PGA Business Network.

PGA Pro salaries on the rise A survey of UK golf clubs has found the percentage of PGA Professionals earning retainers of more than £2,000 per month has risen 10 per cent over the past 12 months.

The survey, which was carried out by chartered accountants Hillier Hopkins, involved 73 private clubs and five proprietary clubs.

The proportion of members’ clubs paying monthly retainers in excess of £2,000 to their PGA Professional has risen from 58 per cent in 2018 to 68% in 2019.

The survey also found the percentage of members’ clubs paying commission to their professional has fallen below 50 percent for the first time.

Club secretaries and general managers earning £40,000-plus has risen from 57 per cent in 2018 to 66 per cent last year.

There was also an increase in the proportion earning over £60,000, rising from 15 per cent in 2018 to 21 percent in 2019.

To download a copy of Hillier Hopkins 2019 Golf Report, visit www.hillierhopkins.co.uk.

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Places are still available for the second European Members’ Education and Networking Day at Frankfurter Golf Club on March 17.

This an excellent opportunity for PGA Members based in Germany and the wider European region to network and learn with fellow PGA Professionals.

Delegates will have the opportunity to hear from PGA Chief Executive Robert Maxfield about the Association’s progress over the past year and learn more about the recent changes to PGA Membership and its CPD offering.

PGA Advanced Professional, Steve Astle, will also be delivering his popular talk on the topic of ‘The Business of Coaching’.

Matthew Davies, PGA Regional Manager (International), said: “I would encourage all PGA Members across Europe to attend the European Members Education and Networking Day.”

Show Support A team of six PGA Professionals will deliver free coaching to the public at the 2020 British Golf Show this summer.

Alex Mollin, Tiffany MacKenzie, Alan Bradshaw, David Playdon, David Bartlett and Marcus Ball have been selected for the event at Wycombe Air Park, Buckinghamshire from May 15-16.

Jonathan Wright, PGA External Relations Executive, commented: “This is the first time we’ll be delivering the free sessions at the British Golf Show as part of The PGA’s support for the event.

“All of the coaches we’ve selected have experience of delivering these short coaching sessions to the public and they’re all very excited to add the British Golf Show to their CVs.”

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NEWS ON THE MOVE The latest PGA Member appointments across the UK, Ireland and overseas.

Bentham Golf Course has appointed Jamie Millar as their new club professional. The New Zealander commented: “I have big plans for the coaching side of my work and cannot overstate how great it has been to have the support and local knowledge of people everyone at Bentham Golf Course as I get to know the area.”

Also in the North, Lloyd Davies is now a club professional at Heyrose Golf Club and Stephanie Hall and Sam Craigon have started similar roles at Rotherham Golf Club and Warrington Golf Club respectively.

Golf aids prison rehabilitation Alex Mollin has been aiding the rehabilitation of offenders on the island of Jersey through her Recovery Golf Initiative.

PGA Advanced Professional Mollin implemented a successful four-week ‘Introduction to Golf’ trial at HM Prison La Moye – a mixed-use prison in Jersey – in November last year.

Each week a 90-minute indoor session was delivered to eight inmates within the prison’s sports hall. The sessions introduced basic golf skills but also included some of the other personal skills and etiquette associated with the game such as self-regulation and integrity.

Upon completion the attendees were presented with a certificate along with a player’s edition of the Rules of Golf.

Mollin said: “I feel that if only one person makes better choices upon release, and if golf could be a part of that, then these sessions have been worthwhile. I also believe that aside from the playing element, promoting the possibilities of working within the golf environment could help provide the skills needed to integrate within society upon release.”

Following the successful trial in November 2019, another four-week Recovery Golf session was held last month at the prison.

Ross Allan, Physical Education Manager at States of Jersey Prison Service, added: “This was the first time a sport of this nature has been offered to prisoners and adapted to suit the prison environment. All four sessions saw 100 per cent attendance, compliance and participation, which was credit to session content and delivery by PGA Professional Alex Mollin.”

In the East, Timothy Lond-Caulk is now a club professional at Royal Norwich Golf Club, while David Botley moves to John O’Gaunt Golf Club and Jack Frances is the new head professional at North Middlesex Golf Club.

After six years as an Assistant at Royal Mid-Surrey, Ricky Pharo is the head professional role at Pachesham Golf Club.

Other South region moves see James Rich join Golfbidder, Kieran Blackshaw is a teaching professional at Stoke Park Golf Club, and Richard Shaw is now a golf development officer at World of Golf.

In the West, Paul Deeprose is a membership & sales manager at Wells Golf Club.

Other moves in the area see Jon Deare join Sherdons Golf Centre as a club professional, while Richard Sadler and Joshua Mayo take up similar roles at Parranporth Golf Club and Windmill Leisure.

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TGI rewards top Assistants

McEvoy crowned TGI Partner of the Year Paul McEvoy has been crowned TGI Golf Partnership’s official Partner of the Year.

The Clitheroe Golf Club pro’s dedication to the Partnership and his fellow PGA Members was recognised at TGI’s awards night at Trump Turnberry last month.

McEvoy said: “We work all our lives to be recognised by our peers and this is the icing on the cake for all the years I’ve worked my socks off. “ Richard Lally (Aspley Guise and Woburn Sands Golf Club) was New Partner of the Year, while Lee Brotherhood (Hollywood Golf Club) claimed the Most Improved Business of the Year award.

Paul Stevenson ( Portadown Golf Club) scooped the Pro Shop of the Year award, while Royal Troon’s Kieron Stevenson took the first ever Marquee Pro Shop of the Year.

The TGI Golf Partnership will once again be sponsoring the PGA Assistants Awards for the 10th successive year.

TGI, which is fully owned by its PGA Professional Partners, rewards the top PGA Assistant in each year across the regions.

Eddie Reid, TGI Golf Managing Director, said: “These awards recognise the hard work and dedication the assistants put in and over the course of the years we have seen some first-class professionals come through the system.

“We take great pride in looking at some of these extremely talented assistants and seeing what they have achieved once they go on to become head PGA Professionals in their own right.”

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NEWS ON THE MOVE

New website goes live!

An improved, user-friendly website (www.pga. info) fit for the modern day professional with improved navigation, updated content and fully mobile responsive has been launched.

The redesigned site will provide PGA Members and visitors with an improved user experience and intuitive platform. The highlight in the first phase of development will be a revamped ‘Members Area’ with updated content and readily accessible information around career development, jobs, and member benefits.

The new website also provides clear and concise information about The PGA brand – who we are, what we do and how we work. With over half of all web traffic coming via mobile or tablet devices, this is a significant improvement on the current site and will provide visitors with an improved experience.

The launch is the first of a series of phases as we look to continually progress and improve the new website. The second phase of the

launch later this year involves the introduction of the upgraded ‘Find a Pro’ feature that will provide a valuable resource both for amateurs searching for tuition and Members looking to promote their services. A detailed review of the Members Area, including further content development, will also form part of the second phase of development.

To login, simply enter your membership number for both your username and your password. Once you login to the Members’ Area, we encourage you to change your password via the “My Dashboard” page which you will find under “My PGA” in the menu navigation at the top of the page. Within “My Dashboard” you will also be able to update your personal details and preferences.

If you have any problems with the log in process please contact Membership on 01675470333 or email membership@pga. org.uk

More than 82,000 pages have been viewed on the new PGA website since its launch.

Brothers in arms Terry steps in The future of a struggling golf course in Prestwich has been saved thanks to PGA Professional Andrew Terry.

Heaton Park Golf Course was forced to close for the second time in just over a year last October after its management company ceased trading.

However, Terry and his business partner, Joe Jackson, have stepped in to save the historic 18-hole course.

Terry commented: “It’s an exciting new chapter and we can’t wait to welcome previous and new golfers to the course.”

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Two brothers who are both PGA Professionals will be running the London Marathon together to raise funds for the Caudwell Children charity.

Paul Carpenter followed in his brother Kevin’s footsteps to pursue a career in golf with The PGA. Kevin enjoyed spells at two Ryder Cup venues (Gleneagles and Celtic Manor) before developing his own trick shot business, while Paul’s career saw him move abroad to Spain where he runs The Paul Carpenter Golf Academy in Murcia.

Like golf, Kevin was the first to run the London Marathon and, after failing to earn a place in the past, Paul will stand proudly alongside is brother at the start line for the 2020 event on April 26 after accepting a place through the Caudwell Children charity.

“The fact that we are running in the London Marathon together in the same year is absolutely amazing,” said Paul. “We are very fortunate and very proud to be raising money for such a good cause.”

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Daniel Warwick moves to the Midlands to take up a prestigious role as the head professional at The Belfry.

Matthew Coulson is also now a head professional at Trent Lock Golf Centre, as is Steve Baxter at Hinckley Golf Club.

Also in the Midlands, Branston Golf & Country Club has hired Chris Wicketts as its academy manager.

A 26-year spell at Ranfurly Golf Club has come to an end for Tom Eckford. The 60-yearold joins Gleddoch Hotel Spa & Golf as their new head professional.

Another long-serving coach, Alan Reid, leaves his head professional post at West Lothain Golf Club to join the Your Golf Travel company.

Elsewhere in Scotland, Calum Lawson is Strathaven Golf Club’s new head professional, and Michael Kanev fills the same role at Kingsknowe Golf Club.

In Ireland, Ian Dudman joins Premier-Licencing Ltd as their UK Sales Director, while Mark Sutton leaves Synery Golf for The Ward Golf Centre.

Experienced retailer Barry Coomber brings the curtain down on an 18-year career at Serres Pals Golf Club in Spain.

He is now a retail salesperson at Pals Golf Club. Another international move sees Elliot Gray join the Golf Saudi Company as their director of operations.

If you would like to feature in this column, or would like to highlight a new appointment, send details to membership@pga.org.uk.

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NEWS

Allen’s masterclass It’s been quite a start to 2020 for Lurgan Golf Club’s Zoe Allen who received her third US Kids Top 50 Coaching award at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Florida.

Each year, US Kids Golf selects the 50 top coaches to receive this top honour. Those who have won the award on two previous occasions receive the ultimate accolade of Master Coach.

Zoe has now received the top 50 award for 2017, 2018 and 2019. She becomes the seventh International coach from outside USA to receive the Master Coach award and the first from Ireland.

Jacobs completes unique hat-trick Alex Jacobs achieved a unique hat-trick by winning the West TGI Regional Assistants’ Award for the third year running.

Having won the award during his first and second years, Jacobs completed his training in familiar fashion – by winning the one for year three.

Robert Moss, PGA Regional Manager (West), commented: “Alex has shown excellent commitment and dedication to his training – to be the winner each year is no mean feat given the number of trainees.”

Stable door opens Charlie Wilson and Bruce McDonald have formed the Stable Group to provide both retail and consultancy to golf clubs.

Their first commissions, Hythe and Sene Valley Golf Clubs, are starting to feel the benefits.

Wilson commented: “We have much to bring to both clubs and we will work closely with them to grow their memberships, increase the retail business and strengthen their bottom lines.”

McDonald added: “We learned a lot at our former clubs. Now it’s time to show what we can deliver for clubs that share our vision.”

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First lady chooses life-saving hospital as proam beneficiary The PGA Midlands new captain, Alison Johns, has chosen the hospital where she received life-saving surgery as a beneficiary of a fundraising pro-am she is organising.

Johns, a teaching professional at Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire, has succeeded Nic Gilks as the region’s captain. In doing so, she will be become the first female Captain in the Midlands region, a scenario that looked unlikely 11 years ago when she contracted a life-threatening virus.

“It was due to an unknown virus that attacked my liver,” Johns recalled. “I was given five days left to live unless I received a transplant.

“Luckily for me I got one of the final day at Addenbrookes Hospital.

Obviously I’m very grateful to the donor and family involved and ACT – the Addenbrookes Charitable Trust - the charity that supports the hospital is very dear to me.”

Gough hands on the baton

Pros up for 59club honours

When Charles Gough locked up the professional shop at West Herts and pulled down the shutters on the final day of 2019, it wasn’t just the end of another day – it was the end of an era.

Gough, 64, was finishing as the historic club’s head professional, a role he had fulfilled for 34 years and two months. “In my heart, it was absolutely the right time,” says Gough.

His association with West Herts spans 50 years, having started there as a caddie in his early teens. A natural affinity for the game led Gough to become an assistant professional at West Herts and he was handed the keys to the professional shop in 1985.

“I’ve been blessed with a really good life. West Herts is a big club to me. It has been fantastic.”

Fittingly, one of the hundreds of junior members to have been tutored by Gough has taken over the helm as West Herts head PGA professional. David Griffiths did his traineeship under Gough and on January 1, 2020 it was his name above the door of the professional’s shop.

Griffiths added: “It’s a great honour to be stepping into his role and I’m glad he’s still going to be around as he has 40-plus years of West Herts knowledge to pass on.”

A host of PGA Professionals are in the hunt to win top accolades at 59club’s prestigious 10th annual awards ceremony.

Chris Fitt (Foxhills), Chris Reeve (The Belfry) and Darren Griffiths (Monte Rei) are in the running to be crowned Golf Manager of the Year (Over £75 green fee).

Alex Davies (Belton Woods) and Martyn Stubbings (Rockliffe Hall) are hoping to be crowned Golf Retail Manager of the Year (Under £75 green fee).

Jacky Montgomery (Dunbar) Sean Graham (Foxhills), Simon Howell (Forest of Arden) have been nominated in the Golf Retail Manager of the Year (Over £75 green fee) category.

The Belfry (PGA National England) will be hoping to defend their title as ‘Ultimate Golf Resort’.

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NEWS F E AT U R E

Safeguarding the next generation of golfers The PGA works in partnership with other leading golfing bodies across the UK and Ireland to promote a safe and positive environment for everyone in golf.

SafeGolf aims to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, young people and adults who play, volunteer or work at golf clubs across the country.

“We are intent on embedding a culture of safeguarding within our sport and we have a duty to protect all people,” said Andrew Wright, Head of Governance at The PGA. “One way we demonstrate good practice is to insist PGA Members and qualified volunteer coaches who are working with children complete the relevant criminal record checks and safeguarding awareness training.”

The PGA and its Members can act as advocates for safeguarding across the golfing landscape, ensuring that all people have a fun, safe and positive experience when playing golf.

Throughout the UK and Ireland, PGA Professionals who teach or supervise children have a legal requirement to undertake a criminal records check, while Safegolf Accredited Coaches must also attend safeguarding training every three years.

PGA Professionals who achieve this will be registered as ‘Accredited Coaches’ on the SafeGolf website (www. safegolf.org).

Wright continued: “Our openness and transparency can be demonstrated by making information publicly available, which will also serve to reassure parents and guardians of the suitability of those working with children.

“We have now added a publicly searchable register of SafeGolf accredited PGA Members and licensed volunteer coaches to the SafeGolf website which is updated every month.”

PGA Assistants in the UK and Ireland must always have a current criminal records check along with a safeguarding and protecting children certificate in place.

SAFEGUARDING CASE MANAGEMENT Members should contact Andy on 01675 470333 regarding any safeguarding concerns or if you are subject to criminal proceedings.

The PGA has an independent safeguarding consultant and an independent case management group (CMG) who provide independence and assurance in relation to all decisions.

HOW TO GET CHECKED England - Checks are carried out by The Disclosure and Barring Service. Members should submit their applications via The PGA by contacting Sara Gardner on 01675 470333 who will provide details on how to apply.

The PGA has partnered with England Golf and The Golf Foundation to make sure there are agreed protocols in place.

Scotland - Checks are carried out through Disclosure Scotland under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) and administered by Scottish Golf Limited.

All Scottish Members coaching children must be registered on the PVG scheme and carry out a renewal check every three years. You must have attended a Safeguarding & Protecting Children workshop within the past three years. Any member in Scotland that has an issue regarding PVG should contact Allan Martin (PGA Coach Education and Development Manager) at the Scottish office, 01764 661840.

Wales - Checks are carried out by The Disclosure and Barring Service. Members should submit their applications through The PGA. Contact Sara Gardner on 01675 470333 for details on how to apply.

Members who wish to access development funding from Wales Golf must be SafeGolf Accredited.

Ireland - Checks are carried out through The National Vetting Bureau (ROI) and Access NI (NI) and are administered by The Confederation of Golf in Ireland. Members applying for funding must have a vetting check and safeguarding course in place, which must be renewed every three years.

1204

1204 PGA Members are SafeGolf accredited

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Tracy Loveys - PGA Professional Bigbury Golf Club

my support Team Graphic Designer Business Development Consultant Central Invoicing Executive Buying Terms Manager EMP Marketing Editor

Foremost Golf For more information contact our National Business Development Manager, David Murch +44 (0) 7712 842 720 • david.murch@foremostgolf.com

DISTANCE R E P O R T

GOING THE DISTANCE The conclusions of the R&A and USGA’s report into the impact of distance on the game looks set to strengthen the growing divide that exists between the professional tours and those that play for fun The possibility of the introduction of two separate sets of equipment rules – one for tour professionals and one for handicap golfers – looks closer than ever following the publication of a report into the impact of distance in all sectors of the game.

The Distance Insights Project, a 102-page report published by the R&A and the USGA at the beginning of February, is the result of 12 months of research and testimony from all the game’s major stakeholders.

Drawing on detailed shot data from all the main pro tours and from the amateur game, the report stopped short of calling for an immediate bifurcation of the rules, but issued a strongly worded summary contesting that ‘the continuing cycle of increases in distance is undesirable and detrimental to golf’s long-term future’ and that direct action was required in order to ensure the sustainability of the game.

The report frames the debate in terms that few would argue with: “An enduring foundation of golf is that success in getting a ball from the tee to the hole in the fewest strokes should depend on using many different skills and judgments, rather than be dominated by only one or a few. In our view, it is essential for this to remain true for play at the diverse golf courses across the world, without the need for them to keep getting longer.”

Offering his personal assessment of the report’s findings, Martin Slumbers, Chief Executive of The R&A, said: “We believe we have reached a pivotal moment in golf. The impact of long-term hitting distance increases on some of golf’s essential elements are now clear – including changing the strategic challenge of the sport, altering the balance of skills needed to be successful, and risking courses being less challenging or obsolete. Our objective as governing bodies is to work with the key stakeholders in golf to address this issue in a way that brings the sport together and which ensures it continues to thrive for many years to come.”

According to Mike Davis, the USGA’s Chief Executive, the two reasons cited for the belief that distance is harming the game at all levels is firstly that the strategic challenge of many courses that have not or cannot extend their length has been comprised by long hitting; and secondly, that the trend towards longer courses is having an adverse consequences that effect golfers at all levels of the game.

“In our view, these continuing trends have also helped create an unnecessary degree of emphasis on distance, with a seeming expectation that each new generation of golfers will hit a golf ball farther than before. We believe that a golfer’s hitting distance is fundamentally relative to hole length and the distance of those he or she competes against; golf’s essential character and skill challenge do not depend on the absolute length of a shot or a course, and golf does not become a better game each time distances and course lengths increase.”

Davis added: “We could make the game more enjoyable for everyone by exposing that courses do not have short enough forward tees. For beginners, seniors and some women, many courses are just too long and golfers don’t have the opportunity to hit greens in regulation.

PGA Tour player Cameron Champ averaged 311 yards with his driver in 2019

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DISTANCE R E P O R T

THE TOUR PROS’ VIEW ON THE DISTANCE DEBATE “I don’t think long hitters should be stopped from

doing something they do better than the rest of us.”

Luke Donald “Whatever the USGA does, you can’t take swing speed away from a player who has it and has an advantage.”

Robert Garrigus “It’s not like scores are lower than they used to be. I don’t think the ball goes too far, and I don’t think we make the game too easy.” Dustin Johnson “If you were able to shape the golf ball like before, you’d see more separation between the top players and the merely good ones.” Branden Grace “I would love to roll back to a point where a drive of 300 yards is absolutely bombed. That’s the limit.

It’s clear that building 8,000-yard courses is not a sustainable route.” Peter Malnati, PGA Tour player

Additional length also adds operational and maintenance costs. This ongoing chase for distance it is a cycle we’d like to see broken.”

While the report offers no direct solutions to the perceived problems, the R&A and the USGA will now enter the next consultation phase, with the main topic for research the potential changes in the Equipment Rules, specifically whether a bifurcation in the rules between professionals and amateurs is required, along with further enquiry into the effects of course design, conditions and setup on hitting distance.

There is no sense in the report that the R&A or the USGA has any plans to curb the hitting power of the club golfer, as the data shows that average hitting distances have barely moved among handicap golfers in the last 20 years, but it seems certain that local rules for professional tournaments might well be altered to reign in the big hitters.

Davis said: “We anticipate it will take nine to 12 months to get feedback from manufacturers and constituencies within the industry. Among the topics out there will certainly be about balls and about clubs. After that, we will decide what kind of specifications we want in place. To be clear, we’re not at that stage. The whole purpose is to present that we do have a problem here that we want to serve for the long term. We felt that the way to handle this is to have the most comprehensive set of data possible and make decisions from there.”

KEY FINDINGS OF THE DISTANCE INSIGHTS REPORT 1. The strategic challenge presented by courses that cannot or have not been extended has been compromised, leading to their obsoletion as tournament venues.

2. Increased driving distance is undermining the importance of the broader range of skills required to play the game.

3. Longer courses take longer to play and are not necessary for a challenging, enjoyable and sustainable game.

4. Many recreational golfers are playing from tees are not reflective of their skill level, while forward tees are often not forward enough.

To read the 15-page conclusions report and the full 102-page report, visit randa.org/distanceinsights. ●

DRIVING BY NUMBERS (2019 FIGURES) 216 Av. driving distance (yards) for male amateurs (0-24 handicap) 237 Av. driving distance for amateurs with handicap of 0-9 293 Av. driving distance on PGA Tour 305 Av. driving distance on Korn Ferry Tour 317 Av. driving distance of Cameron Champ (longest driver on PGA Tour) 320 Av. driving distance of Min Woo Lee (longest driver on European Tour) 331 Av. driving distance of Brandon Matthews (longest driver on Korn Ferry Tour)

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SHOW P R E V I E W

PUTTING ON A SHOW IN

MAY 2020 PGA Members will play a key role at this year’s British Golf Show in association with The PGA, which takes place at Wycombe Air Park this May.

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Six PGA Professionals will provide two solid days of free coaching at the Friday 15th – Saturday 16th May event.

The PGA’s booth will be the ‘hub’ of the show, located prominently at the entrance to the main Golf exhibition hall.

The six PGA Professionals will be stationed within the main exhibition hall and at the outdoor Driving Range from 10:00 to 17:00 each day, giving continuous free 15-minute lessons.

One PGA Professional will be giving lessons on the large indoor Putting Green, one of the show’s central features. Two more will be based at the show’s two official simulators, provided by Golf Swing Systems. The PGA Professionals stationed there will be giving lessons on the long game and short game, depending on what the player needs.

Both of the simulator bays will be equipped with SkyTraks running the latest TruGolf E6 Connect software.

Two more PGA Professionals will be stationed at two dedicated PGA bays on the show’s 300-yard outdoor Driving Range.

A final PGA Professional will be available to teach at any location including on the adjustable Zen Green Stage, one of the event’s key attractions.

All who attend will be encouraged to visit The PGA booth when they first arrive at the event, to book a free lesson or to ask any questions about golf. At last year’s British Golf Show many visitors had never played

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SHOW P R E V I E W golf before, and staff from both The PGA and the UK Golf Federation – which is also supporting the show – will be on hand to help visitors take their first steps in the sport, and to find their way to their nearest golf club this summer.

EVENT DETAILS The two-day event takes place simultaneously with The Elite London, a long-standing luxury lifestyle show which covers aviation, marine, motoring, shooting & country, and luxury brands. The British Golf Show and The Elite London exhibition halls are adjacent to each other, and all visitors can access both shows.

Over 60 golf brands will be exhibiting in the main hall at this year’s British Golf Show, with equipment manufacturers demonstrating their 2020 ranges and holding custom fitting events on the outdoor Driving Range.

A fleet of golf buggies supplied by Golf Car UK will ferry people between the exhibition halls and the Driving Range, where there will be a marquee serving refreshments to golfers enjoying their custom-fitting sessions.

The venue, Wycombe Air Park, ensures a unique golf show experience. This commercial airfield lends itself perfectly to a public exhibition, with four aircraft hangars devoted to exhibition space plus ample room for extensive outdoor attractions including an F1 Driving Experience and Supercar Test Drives on the runway, Helicopter and Glider Pleasure Flights and the E.J.Churchill Clay Pigeon Shooting Experience, as well as outdoor exhibits including a Classic Car Area.

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In The Elite London exhibition visitors will enjoy numerous spectacular sights including a host of luxury cars, plus interactive attractions such as a bookable Sommelier Experience and Beauty & Wellness treatments. Keen golfers in The Elite London halls will also get to try a second adjustable Zen Green Stage, as seen on Sky Sports and in golf schools around the world.

With the two SkyTrak simulators manned

by PGA Professionals and many other exhibitors also offering Golf Simulator

you won’t have come across at any golf show previously.

“Co-locating the British Golf Show with The Elite London guarantees that there will be many non-golfers present who can be introduced to the sport, and it also gives our golfing visitors many new things to see and do.

“If your children want to see some amazing supercars and helicopters up close, they will have a whale of a time at this particular golf show! We are certainly

“

The event is targeted at all golfers and their families, with HowDidiDo – the world’s largest independent golfing network

experiences, golfers visiting this year’s British Golf Show will not be short of opportunity to hit balls.

The event is targeted at all golfers and their families, with HowDidiDo – the world’s largest independent golfing network – promoting ticket sales to its 500,000+ customers in the run-up to the show.

Early-bird tickets for the event are now on sale for £15 (under-16s enter free) at www. britishgolfshow.co.uk. The show opens at 10:00 and closes at 17:00 on both days.

ENGLAND’S GOLF SHOW Alex Ayling, Managing Director of The Elite Events, said: “We are trying to do something different from previous golf shows in England. This is not what you would call just another box-shifting golf exhibition. This is a day out with sights and experiences which

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expecting a few selfies to appear on social media afterwards.”

“We are thrilled to be working closely with The PGA to make this a successful and regular part of the early golf season here in England. There is growing support throughout the industry for an Englandbased show which can become a stable annual crowd-puller for golf – and one which is actively trying to introduce new people to the sport.”

Dr Jonathan Wright, External Relations Executive and Fellow of The PGA, said: “The PGA is delighted to be part of the British Golf Show this year. We have a team of highly qualified and enthusiastic PGA Professionals who will be able to provide an exciting experience to attendees, whether they are experienced golfers or people trying the game for the first time.” ●

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INTERNATIONAL

NEW HORIZONS Elliott Gray, the Director of Operations for Golf Saudi, has enjoyed a successful overseas career that has taken him from his native Scotland to Dubai, South Africa, USA, and now back to the Middle East What has been your career path to date?

I started out my golfing career as an assistant at Gullane Golf Club in Scotland in 1986, when I was 17. I qualified as a PGA professional in 1989 and was awarded Trainee of the Year. I was asked if I would like to put my name forward for a PGA Pro’s position at the recently opened Emirates Golf Club in Dubai. At the time I was earning about £60 a week, so the move not only seemed financially beneficial, but also a chance of seeing the world. I was lucky enough to be offered the job and left Scotland in September that year.

After three years in Dubai, I was offered the role of director of golf at Fancourt in South Africa, where I stayed for three years before taking on a similar role at Wilmington Country Club in America for a further three years. I then moved back to Dubai in 2004, when I took up the director of golf’s job at Arabian Ranches.

I stayed there for 13 years, moving up to become group general manager in 2012, where I also oversaw operations at Dubai Hills.

How did you find out about your current role as Director of Operations for Golf Saudi?

In my current role I report to Ed Edwards, the chief operations officer of Golf Saudi. I worked under Ed when we he was general manager of Arabian Ranches, before moved on to The Montgomerie Dubai, and then Leisure Group General Manager. We have both lived and worked in the Middle East for many years, and he offered me the opportunity to join him in developing golf in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Summit in the country following the second edition of the Saudi International presented by SoftBank Investment Advisers, which boasted one of the best fields on the European Tour. Our ongoing ambition is to have golf become part of the school curriculum and we are currently breaking into several schools in Riyadh.

What are the best and most challenging parts about the job?

The best part is working with an almost blank canvas and being able to create the strategy and plans for growing golf in the country. We have a very dynamic young team under Ed’s leadership, and we are all very excited about the future growth in the Kingdom. The hardest part is being away from my family, who are based in Dubai, however I do get to see them every other weekend.

How easy has it been to settle into the local community?

I don’t live there full-time, however settling in has been easy, as the Saudi people are among the friendliest people I have met in the Middle East.

What does a typical working day involve?

Our offices are situated in the diplomatic quarter in Riyadh. I walk to work from my hotel and back in the evening after what is generally a 12-hour working day. Basically, the areas I cover are operations and development of the game, and my day can vary dramatically from planning the operational side and budget of a potential new golf facility to a golf studio café in a mall.

What advice would you pass on to other PGA Members who may be interested in working abroad in general, and Saudi specifically?

Working in the Middle East is demanding and is perhaps not everyone’s cup of tea. I have enjoyed working in Dubai, and Riyadh is a fast-developing city, and the country has made big changes in the past few years. When considering a move to a country you have never been to, it’s best to go their first to ensure you feel comfortable with the surroundings and the culture before committing.

How would you rate the current strength of the golf industry in Saudi?

Golf is not a well-developed sport in the country; however, this is changing. Golf Saudi recently staged the inaugural Golf Saudi

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I think Saudi will be one of my last jobs, so it would be great to go out being part of developing golf in the region. However, I will have to see what the boss of the household says! ●

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THE LATEST POWER AND PUSH TROLLEYS

RETAIL

LET’S ROLL!

LAUNCH CONTROL

A ROUND UP OF THE LATEST EQUIPMENT & TRADE NEWS WINTER WARMERS

STOCK ANSWERS

STEPPING UP

AW20 Apparel from Ping, Glenmuir, FootJoy & Sunderland

Top tips to improve your stock turn

Skechers in the spotlight

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TR A DE N E W S NEWSBURST TaylorMade’s launches Pix ball TaylorMade’s new TP5 and TP5x Pix balls feature a new visual technology which was developed following consultation with Rickie Fowler.

The first version of the TP5 Pix balls were only sold in the US when they launched last year, but the new version is being rolled out globally, priced at £49.99 per dozen.

Callaway polishes up Chrome CALLAWAY HAS redesigned its Chrome Soft and Chrome Soft X balls to promote more speed and distance, while maintaining tour-level feel and spin. The Chrome Soft features a 34% larger inner core and a thinner, graphene-infused outer core, which promotes fast ball speed and increased wedge spin, while a 10% thinner urethane cover promotes less spin on full shots while maintaining soft feel and excellent greenside spin and control. A new dimple pattern reduces drag for higher launch, higher flight and long distance. The Chrome Soft X boasts a larger core for increased ball speed, while the cover is 15% thinner to lower spin on full shots, while a firmer outer mantle layer increases greenside spin on half shots. It also features the new dimple design. Both models will be at retail on April 2, with an RRP of £39.99 for 12.

Like many golfers, Fowler prefers to draw a line on his ball to help him line up putts.

The previous generation of Pix made that virtually impossible, so, inspired by Fowler’s insights, TaylorMade positioned a single TaylorMade logo and aligned it with that TP5/TP5x stamp to form a natural pathway through the centre of the ball.

“The pix graphics give you a precise focal point to work with,” said Fowler. “When we started developing the new design, one of my first comments was if we didn’t have the full TaylorMade logo in two places, we would have space to create a path that works for alignment and feedback.”

Twelve strategically-placed, multi-coloured graphics frame the single TaylorMade logo and TP5/TP5x stamp to form the company’s new ClearPath Alignment. ClearPath not only helps with alignment, but it provides feedback on the quality of the roll. On a well-struck putt where the ball is rolling end-over-end, the golfer can see a clearing in the middle of ball, which tells the player that they started the ball on their intended line.

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XPOS Launches New Stock Management App BRISTOL-BASED RETAIL experts XPOS has launched a brand-new App for its customers. A first of its kind in golf retail, the XPOS App, which went live on March 1, replaces the original XAPP app developed by the company in 2016, which introduced use of a smart phone to complete stocktakes in golf shops.

Without the need for a nearby till, the XPOS App delivers time-saving benefits, enabling the retailer to stock in anywhere, without needing to put products onto shelves. App users can even sell products online before they hit the shop floor.

Says XPOS Product Manager Henry King: “The App was designed to take the hassle out of stocking in and stocktaking. App users will find it a far more convenient way to take deliveries. It speeds up the whole process, is simple to set-up and there are no limits to the number of staff that can use it”.

The App is linked to the shop’s sales system, XPOS, which immediately updates new stock information during the process, ensuring accurate product details for better reporting.

The XPOS App is available free for XPOS V2 users.

Download the XPOS App from the App Store and Google Play Stores.

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N E W S TR A DE

Titleist unveils trio of new balls TITLEIST HAS upgraded its premium category with a new version of the AVX ball, and new models of the Tour Soft and distance-orientated Velocity.

Featuring a larger, lower compression core, a redesigned casing layer and a thinner urethane cover, the new AVX (£52 for 12) is designed to fly faster and longer, with increased short game spin.

Offered in white and yellow, it offers the lowest flight, lowest spin and softest feel of the brand’s three premium balls.

Titleist has also unveiled new designs and colour options for its Tour Soft (£39.99 for 12) and Velocity balls (£34.99 for 12). The updated Tour Soft features a larger core, a thinner cover, and a new dimple design to offer a combination of soft compression feel, fast speed and short game spin and control. It also boasts a new T-shaped side stamp, which acts as an alignment aid.

The new Velocity ball has been engineered for maximum speed, with a larger core generating fast initial velocity with low spin on all full swing shots; an increased core size adds spin for greater stopping power on approach shots; while a new cover formulation is designed for speed and greenside feel. In addition to traditional white, the Velocity is offered in three new matt colours – pink, green and orange.

SkyCaddie brings touch-screen technology to GPS watch market

Partner

SKYCADDIE’S NEW LX5 GPS watch borrows many of the best features of the brand’s top-of-the-range SX500 handheld unit and shrinks them into watch form.

Boasting a 1.4-inch, colour touch screen, the LX5 offers a full screen image of each hole, and boasts SkyCaddie’s Dynamic HoleVue, which gives a full look at the fairway with trees, water and other hazards. It also offers front, centre, back distances based on the angle to the green.

The touch screen offers a sliding cursor and a zoom-in feature, while Intelligreen technology accurately maps the green and shows swales, false fronts and other major features. Users can swipe from mode to mode using the screen to bring up scoring and stat-tracking options, while the LX5 also offers health-monitoring features such as steps, miles and heart rate. It can also connect to a smartphone and provide alerts to calls, texts and emails.

Battery life is 10 hours when used as a GPS and 10 days when used only as a watch. A free three-year ubscription to SkyCaddie’s membership programme is included in the purchase price.

Vokey wedges boast lofty ambitions THE NEW Vokey SM8 wedges feature a new centre of gravity location that is designed to improve distance control and helps golfers flight shots lower.

By lengthening the hosel and adding tungsten to the toe, the centre of gravity not only moves up and down based on the club’s loft, but also shifts forward in the higher lofts, which helps golfers square the face more efficiently and increases the moment of inertia by 7%, making the clubs more stable at impact.

The grooves in the 46-54 degree lofts are The PGA Professional

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deeper and narrower, like the grooves in an iron, because golfers will typically hit these clubs with a full swing from the fairway.

The grooves in the 56-62-degree wedges are shallower and wider, so they remove water and debris from the hitting surface more effectively on greenside chips, pitches and bunker shots. Between each groove, a series of micro-grooves create more friction and roughness.

Golfers can choose from six sole grinds – F, S, M, K, L and D – to be precisely fit for their swing type, shot making style and course conditions as well as four finishes – chrome, brushed steel and black, plus a raw finish for custom orders. RRP £160.

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TR A DE N E W S Ecco unlocks the power of three

ECCO’S NEW hybrid S-Three shoe features a new midsole technology that is designed to increase comfort and stability in areas where it is most needed.

Zonal Fluidform Technology comprises a moulded midsole with three different zones to ensure the right balance of cushioning and lateral support.

The heel area is engineered for medium softness, while the central part has higher levels of rigidity to deliver lateral stability throughout the swing. The forefront comes with the highest level of softness for increased walking comfort.

The uppers, which are bonded to the sole with Ecco’s glue-free direct injection technology, are made from a soft calf nappa leather and boast Gore-Tex waterproof Gore-Tex technology. A double layer of neoprene in the collar and heel provides increased comfort, while on-course grip is provided via more than 100 traction bars and 800 angles for grip in all playing conditions. RRP £180.

Exclusive introductory commission programme for PGA Professionals

TaylorMade puts trust in Truss TAYLORMADE’S NEW range of Truss putters are designed for players that are looking for the performance benefits of a mid-sized mallet in a more traditional blade shape.

The distinctive-looking range features a new hosel structure and a stronger horizontal topline that improves stability at impact. While traditional-shaped putters with a single contact point on the heel are susceptible to twisting at impact, TaylorMade says the design of the Truss putter, with dual contact points on the topline, twist less on off-centre strikes when compared to traditional blade-style designs, delivering the performance of a high-MOI putter with the look of a blade or mallet.

There are four models to chose from – TB1 is a heelshafted blade; TB2 is a centre-shafted blade with the hosel stretching across the centre; TM1 is a heel-shafted mallet, while TM2 is a centre-shafted mallet with minimal offset and the hosel stretching across the entire topline.

Each model has a nickel cobalt finish and a cobalt blue Pure Roll insert. They are fitted with a KBS Stepless Stability shaft and Lamkin’s Sink Fit Skinny grip as standard. RRP: £269.

P r e m i e r A l l - We a t h e r S u r f a c e s f o r G o l f

COACHING AMBASSADOR PROGRAM In March 2020 we will activate our exciting Coaching Ambassador Program. We are looking to connect with established and proactive PGA Professionals that are passionate about coaching and player development. Our PGA Ambassadors will receive Pin Mapping product samples to utilise throughout their coaching academy. Our unique products such as the Stats Card Pro, Performance Planner and Distance Gapping Cards will generate massive interest with your pupils and lead to a high number of additional coaching opportunities.

Motivated pupils that see the benefits of using the samples will soon look to purchase further products. These sales will lead to a healthy commission for you as an ambassador and generate ongoing, additional passive income.

So, if you are passionate about golf coaching and would like to be part of our Coaching Ambassador Program then forward us your contact details with some information on your current coaching situation.

Justin Long, Director info@pinmapping.co.uk � @PinMapping_golf Partner

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N E W S TR A DE

Titleist unveils ultraforgiving T400s TITLIEST’S NEW T400 irons are built to be the longest, highest launching, and most forgiving of its T Series range.

The heads boast a hollow construction, a low centre of gravity and super thin faces. They also have a wide body and a splitsole design to prevent digging.

The result is an iron that will help golfers with moderate swing speeds hit the ball higher and farther, even when they miss the centre of the clubface.

“The T400s are engineered to get the ball in the air and launch it as far as possible, even when the strike isn’t perfect,” said Josh Talge, Titleist’s Vice

NEWSBURST

President of Marketing.

“There are so many golfers, particularly players with moderate swing speeds, who can benefit from this technology. T400 gets the absolute most out of your swing while still providing the playability of a Titleist iron.”

The stock steel shaft is True Temper’s AMT Red, while the stock graphite shaft is Mitsubishi’s Fubuki MV IR. The stock grip is Golf Pride’s Tour Velvet 360 Lite+, which weighs 43g.

FootJoy boosts carbon footprint with SL shoe FOOTJOY HAS updated its Pro SL shoe and added a new carbon-insert model, as well as a new women’s shoe.

Promising to deliver more traction and increased stability, the Pro SL features an all-new outsole, which provides 189 points of traction to improve contact with the ground, while an 11.5% per cent wider heel and increased forefoot stability provides a more solid platform throughout the swing.

A dual-density foam midsole enhances both stability and comfort, with a firmer area around the edge for support and control, and a softer foam under the foot for maximum cushioning. The uppers are made from ChromoSkin waterproof leather.

A new addition to the range, the Pro SL Carbon, features a full-length carbon fibre insert in the midsole. This flexes and snaps back to its original position, helping to recover more of the energy generated while walking and allowing the body to work less. This, says FootJoy, will result in the golfers feeling less tired at the end of the round.

The Pro SL is available in four laced styles (£149.99) and one BOA closure (£169.99) and for custom options on MyJoys. The Pro SL Carbon is offered in Black/Charcoal/Grey or White/Charcoal/Grey (£179.99), while a new Women’s Pro SL, offered in White/Silver/ Grey Grey/LT Blue and White/Silver/Rose BOA, has an RRP of £124.99 and will be at retail from April 1.

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Bushnell on target with new V5 lasers Bushnell Tour V5 and Tour V5 Shift lasers offer a range of new features, including ‘PinSeeker with Visual JOLT’ technology, which displays a flashing red ring on the screen as the handset vibrates to let the golfer know they have locked onto the flag.

Offering six-times magnification, both models can pick out a flag from 400 yards and can measure distances up to 1,500 yards.

The screen is twice as bright as previous models to make it easy to view in gloomy conditions, while the V5 Shift takes the change of elevation into consideration when the engaged into that mode.

Both models boast a powerful magnetic mount, which enables the unit to be attached securely to a golf buggy or other metallic surface.

RRP: V5 £299, V5 Shift £359.

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TR A DE N E W S

Mizuno makes waves with ST200 woods MIZUNO’S NEW ST200 driver and fairway woods are offered in a choice of three different head designs to deliver of range of ball flights.

The standard ST200 driver is a highstability model aimed at players looking for straight distance, low spin and plenty of forgiveness. The ST200G is designed for higher swing speed players requiring more shot-shaping control, which comes courtesy of weight track on the sole which features two 7g weights which can be moved to create mid to ultra-low spin rates.

The ST200X is a lightweight model designed to help mid-to-low swing speeds produce a high launch with a slight draw.

Weight savings from a compacted Wave Sole and variable thickness graphite crown allow weight to be pushed low and deep for low spin, stability and forgiveness.

Fitted with a 39g graphite shaft, the ST200X is loft adjustable by four degrees with additional upright and flatter settings.

All three models feature Mizuno’s new multi-thickness Beta-rich forged titanium face, which is 17% stronger than traditional 6-4 titanium and offers faster ball speeds across the board.

There are three ST200 fairway wood options (3, 5, 7) – TS, standard and X – all of which feature maraging steel faces and graphite crowns for increased ball speed. The X boasts the largest face and widest body to increase forgiveness, while a built-in draw bias and lightweight shaft making it ideal for mid-to-slow swings.

RRPS: ST200G Driver: £399; ST200 & ST200X Driver: £349; ST200 TS Fairway Wood: £279; ST200 & ST200X Fairway Woods: £239.

Honma receives Foremost’s seal of approval JAPANESE EQUIPMENT brand Honma Golf is the latest manufacturer to become an Approved Supplier to Foremost Golf, the UK’s largest retail and marketing services group, effective from 1 February 2020.

Under the terms of the new arrangement, Honma will provide Foremost members across the UK with preferential buying rates, as well as point of sale and marketing support designed to help the sellthrough of its growing range of top quality hardware products.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Honma as an Approved Supplier to our professional membership,” 26

said Foremost Approved Supplier Manager Chris Glenday. “Honma is one of the fastest-growing brands in golf and offers Foremost members a great opportunity to sell premium quality equipment at affordable prices and excellent margins. I’m confident that both parties will benefit from our members’ efforts to maximise the tremendous potential of the brand, backed by Justin Rose as its principal Tour player.”

Alejandro Sanchez, General Manager of Honma Europe, said: “We’re very excited to be forming a new commercial partnership with Foremost and believe that it can

take our brand to the next level by providing access to the biggest network of green-grass accounts in Europe. Honma is committed to growing its reputation and sales in the UK, Europe’s biggest and most competitive golf market, and we recognise the retail strength of Foremost and its membership, who can play a key role in meeting our aspirations with our exciting new product ranges.”

In addition to the TR20 driver and irons, which are aimed at better golfers, Honma has also recently launched the gameimprovement XP-1 club range, plus a new premium Beres range.

March 2020

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ADVERTORIAL

CREATING A MODERN GOLF EXPERIENCE

Club Car’s revolutionary new Bluetooth technology makes waves in the golf industry There’s a lot of talk these days about needing to evolve the game of golf, about creating the kind of experience that modern customers are looking for.

The challenge is that the vast majority of golf’s current customers are not looking to change the experience, sparking an inherent tension around attracting Millennials and younger generations, who are not taking up the sport in the same numbers as their parents did.

Of course, this is a problem golf must solve in order to survive in the long term, but it’s also clear that, in order to be successful, the solutions will need to be highly tailored, and sensitive to the needs of current golfers.

This is what makes Club Car’s new Bluetooth overhead sound system so exciting.

Younger generations have different expectations. And not being able to listen to their personal music playlists, podcasts or even the radio as part of their golf experience is exactly the kind of thing that may put them off the game, or mark it as boring and old fashioned in their eyes.

However, the last thing golf’s current customer base want is to hear music blasting out from every corner of the course while they try to enjoy a peaceful round.

Club Car’s new Bluetooth system provides an elegant solution.

Integrating with the company’s market-leading Visage touchscreen system, the new Bluetooth speakers are designed to direct the sound within the vehicle only.

This means that while the car’s occupants are enjoying

great volume and terrific audio quality, from even just a few feet away there is barely a whisper, keeping current golfers happy.

Course operators also have a master volume control through the Visage system, ensuring each club can set the perfect sound level for their needs.

By becoming an integral part of the golf experience, Club Car vehicles are adding genuine value to golf venues.

The Track, Meydan Golf, managed by Troon Golf, is a forward-thinking Dubai golf venue that recently installed the latest Visage with Bluetooth sound system, becoming the first venue outside of the USA to do so.

“The Track, Meydan Golf isn’t your ordinary golf club,” commented Thomas Rourke, General Manager at the venue. “Our aim is to get more people into golf, and we look to push the boundaries on how we can promote the game as a fun, modern entertainment experience. The new Visage system and its Bluetooth technology play a big role in that.”

As well as the new audio feature, the Visage system can also provide golfers with traditional on-course information, such as yardages, pace-of-play and scores. It can allow occupants to order food and beverage direct from their golf car. Some venues also share video flyovers, pre-recorded ‘How to Play the Hole’ tips, and more.

“I think this new system will be a definite game-changer where ‘resort golf’ is concerned,” Thomas added. “We believe it will encourage people’s uptake of the sport, help change current perceptions about golf being an old-fashioned and boring game, and ultimately make it a more enjoyable and fun experience.”

For more information on the latest Club Car technology solutions, visit: www.clubcar.com

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1 27

RETAIL

TURNING A PROFIT

PHIL BARNARD Chairman XPOS

In the first of a two-part series on the principles of good stock management, XPOS Chairman Phil Barnard explains why PGA Pros need to focus more on selling and less on buying

A

s many of you know, I deliver a good number of talks every year and it’s a part of the job I really enjoy. I’m lucky I’ve got insights to share, and, knowing that people can take something away from the sessions that they didn’t know before is what it’s all about. Hopefully it’ll be new stats, or bit of advice that helps them to do things better.

Frustratingly, there are always those people who don’t show up, despite having said they’ll come. Worryingly, they’re often the retailers that probably needed to up their skills and would benefit from a wake-up call.

I can’t believe they’re too busy at this time of year. Perhaps they think they’ve got more

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important tasks to do but I doubt anything is more valuable than making time for education on a cold miserable winter’s day.

On that note, let’s look at something that should be high on your list of priorities to get to grips with. Stock turn.

LET’S TAKE STOCK A key indicator of retail efficiency is stock turn. This is a simple number that relates the level of stock to the rate of sale. Stock turn can range from 1 for an antiques shop, for example, to 50+ for a fruit and veg shop. You can’t stockpile fruit without it rotting, so you have to sell it and turn it over very quickly.

March 2020

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RETAIL

“

Improving stock turn from 2.5 to 3.5 would reduce your stock holding by almost 30% – that could provide enough cash for a new indoor swing studio

Ordering too much stock, or products that don’t suit your target market, can lead to sales rails, which reduce your margins and upsets customers who paid full price

At the end of last year, the average stock turn for an on-course golf shop was 2.7. High street sports retailers operate closer to 4.5 and apparel shops at around 3.7. Ideally, pro shops should have a stock turn of between 3.5 and 4.

The difference may seem small but the implications are huge. Improving stock turn from 2.5 to 3.5 would reduce stock holding by almost 30% – for the average pro, that could provide enough cash for an indoor swing studio.

Holding too much stock damages margins. The concept of buying big, buying cheap and making a profit doesn’t work in the pro shop world. With limited distribution channels, pros who buy too much stock can damage their profits and disappoint customers in the process.

Why? Off-course retailers focus on choice and price, but most pro shops have limited space and cash. For them, big isn’t always better. Many offer too much choice and buy in big quantities, assuming this brings lower

“

80% of your margin is generated by 20% of your customer base, and possibly by 20% of your products”

unit costs. But with a limited customer base (visitors and members of the club), too much stock can result in items gathering dust. So, to make space and recoup some cash, they hold a sale – inevitably this is targeted at the same customers who have come in and bought the same products at the full price.

The result? Products are heavily discounted and customers understandably miffed to see their recent purchase now going cheap. Even worse, customers now know they should wait for the sale, rather than pay full price in the shop.

THE FALSE ECONOMY While you should try to avoid any temptation to buy more stock just to bring

the purchase price down, the real key is buying the right stock for your customer base in the first place.

Pros must look at a different way to compete. They need to buy enough of the right products for their target customers, then focus on excellent service, professionalism and convenience. This is the most effective weapon against other retail channels. Focus more on selling, rather than buying.

My advice: Buy smart, sell more. Think about selling the right products to the right customers, which means being more strategic in your brand and product selection. ●

Phil Barnard is the founder and chairman of XPOS, the sales and stock management solution designed for golf. For more insights and retail opinion, follow Phil on Twitter and LinkedIn. Partner

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TR A DE T R O L L E Y S

BETTER BY

DESIGN

Whether a state-of-the-art GPS model or a hassle-free push design, the humble trolley has gone from being a niche product used by seniors to being the must-have equipment in every golfer’s armoury. And, if your customers need convincing of the need to invest in one, they’ve also been proven to lower scores

JUCAD

JUCAD TRAVEL

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German premium trolley brand JuCad is launching into the UK for the very first time this year with the titanium-framed Travel, the company’s best selling electric model. Boasting a minimalist titanium frame – carbon and steel frames are also available – the Travel is light enough to carry in one hand and features two rear wheels, pivoting front wheel, double-sided parking brake, heightadjustable handle and air-cushioned tyres.

Other features include a push-button control for set distances and the option to add full remote control with forward, reverse and on-the-spot turning. A 1.5kg lithium battery, which tucks into any golf bag pocket – JuCad’s own bags have a dedicated battery pocket – has enough juice to last 45 holes.

Measuring 65cm x 35cm x 15cm when folded down, it is compact enough to fit into the smallest of car boots and

comes with its own travel case. It has a RRP of €3,990 (£3,360 approx), and comes with a fiveyear warranty.

Also coming to the UK is the JuStar range, which promises JuCad-style quality for the slightly more price-conscious golfer, with the JuStar Silver electric trolley having an RRP of €1,590 (£1,340 approx).

JuCad also offers a full range of accessories, including cart, trolley and stand bags, scorecard holders, GPS and mobile device holders, branded umbrellas and coloured wheel trims.

For sales enquiries, email info@jucad.de.

March 2020

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T R O L L E Y S TR A DE

POWAKADDY FX7 GPS

POWAKADDY CT6

POWAKADDY PowaKaddy has unveiled a new corporate branding to coincide with the launch of the most technologically advanced range of electric trolleys in the company’s 40-year history. Looking to build on its 58% market share in the UK, the new collection boasts some major upgrades to its previous models, with completely remodelled chassis shapes and significant technological advancements across the entire range.

Spearheading the new ‘FX Collection’, which replaces the Freeway name, is the all-new FX7 GPS, which boasts touch screen GPS technology, as well as a new PowaFrame chassis and hi-tensile alloy, while the new 1-Click folding system enables the entire frame to fold down 20% smaller than previous models.

The GPS offers distances to the front, middle and back of greens, as well as hazards, and the screen also boasts a scorecard function. Other features include a new optional self-sensing electronic braking system that automatically slows the trolley on steep inclines.

The power supply has been upgraded to a 30v Max Plug’n’Play lithium battery, which is 40% smaller than the previous model, while maintaining 100% of its capacity.

It is offered in 18-hole and 36-hole versions. The FX7, which is offered with and without GPS, and optional EBS, comes in a metallic gunmetal finish with a carbon graphite trim.

RRPs are between £679.99 and £899.99.

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The FX5s (£599.99-£649.99) features an all-new design, while the FX3s (£549.99-£649.99) provides an entry-level option for those seeking uncompromised performance at a lower price point.

The redesigned Compact CT range continues to push the boundaries of ultra-compact design with an all-new two-fold mechanism, and low-profile chassis that collapses to be 20% smaller than the CT2. The standard CT6 (£649.99) features a premium gunmetal metallic frame colour, as well as the new smaller Plug ‘n’ Play lithium battery, while the CT6 GPS (£799.99-£849.99) comes pre-loaded with a fully-integrated GPS which is accessible via the 2.8-inch, fullcolour widescreen display. Electronic braking is an optional extra.

The company’s new cart bag collection offers 19 different style and colour combinations, and reflects the new branding showcased in the trolley range.

New for 2020, the Premium Tech bag features liquid metal-effect logos, and a separate putter well. The Premium Edition bag headlines the collection, along with the 100% waterproof Dri Tech, sleek DLX-Lite and ultralightweight X-Lite.

POWAKADDY FX3

POWAKADDY CT6

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TR A DE T R O L L E Y S

MOTOCADDY M3 PRO

MOTOCADDY M5 GPS

MOTOCADDY M1

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MOTOCADDY Motocaddy has refreshed its entire range of trolleys for 2020, with 11 models in the starting line up for the new season. Following extensive research with retailers and consumers, the range has been given a major upgrade, with all the electric models now offering USB ports and adjustable distance control as standard, while they also come with a free accessory station. The overall styling has been given a refresh, with a sleeker, more contemporary look and premium graphite-coloured frames.

There are seven models in the compact-folding M-Series range, with the new M1, M1 DHC, M3 PRO, new M3 PRO DHC, new MS GPS and MS GPS DHC, the M7 Remote, and the premium M-TECH. Headlining the all-new range is the M5 GPS (£749.99) and M5 GPS DHC (£799.99), both of which offer touch screen technology. The 3.5-inch display, which can be operated by while still wearing a glove, boasts a full integrated GPS system with more than 40,000 pre-loaded courses, along with the ability to adjust flag positions on screen along with front, middle and back distances. The unit also receives a wide range of smartphone notifications and it can even point you in the direction of the nearest defibrillator should someone need urgent medical attention.

Along with the M5 GPS models, brand new S1, M1, M1 DHC, M3 PRO

and M3 PRO DHC electric trolleys have also been given an extensive makeover, including an updated handle design, new frames and new wheel colour options.

The new S1 features an anti-glare LCD screen, nine speed settings and ADC in 15, 30 and 45-yard increments, while the updated M3 PRO and all-new M3 PRO DHC features drive, round and life distance measurements, clock and round timer and speed indicator on a full-colour LCD screen. Adjustable Distance Control increases to 60 yards in five-yard increments and a CartLock security pin code is also included. Also included in this year’s M-Series family is the premium M-TECH model, which launched last year.

In the brand’s push trolley range, the P1 now boasts a more robust frame and a one-step folding mechanism, while the Z1 features friction-free wheels and three handle height settings. The compact Cube has also been given a refresh, with a new lime trim offering to add to the previous red/blue options, plus a new adjustable height rubber handle and a parking brake.

Motocaddy’s bag range for 2020 includes five new models – Dry-Series, M-TECH, Hydro FLEX, Club-Series, and Lite-Series – while the Pro-Series remains in the line up. n motocaddy.com

March 2020

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T R O L L E Y S TR A DE

BIG MAX BLADE IP

BIG MAX The market-leading push trolley brand in continental Europe, Big Max has a wide choice of models for 2020, including its unique Fold Flat range and its best-selling Ti range.

The ultra-slim BLADE IP (£299) uses a simple folding mechanism that enables the wheels to flip automatically under the body of the trolley, leaving it perfectly flat. At just 12.5cm deep, it is ideal for storage in compact spaces, transporting with a golf bag on top or even behind a car’s front seats. Other features include adjustable bag brackets; double foot brake; drinks holder; storage compartment in the handle; and ball, tee and double scorecard holder. It comes with a five-year warranty and is available in black, black/lime, white, white/lime, or phantom/red.

The BLADE Quattro (£249) is a four-wheel fold-flat trolley that offers extra stability, while the three-wheeled Autofold FF (£279) benefits from a large storage compartment, robust construction and a fold flat mechanism. The all-new Ti Lite (£199) is Big Max’s lightest ever trolley, weighing just 5.4kg, although a heightadjustable handle and a collapsible front wheel make it a real heavyweight when it comes to practical simplicity.

The Ti ONE trolley (£179) boasts a large storage panel, footbrake and height-adjustable handle.

Big Max is also a popular choice for the rental market, with its Fleet 333 push trolley being ordered by the St Andrews Links Trust’s seven courses, as well as venues such as Sunningdale, Gleneagles and Kingsbarns.

CLICGEAR

For sales enquiries, email office@ golftech.eu, call 01204 383949 or visit bigmax.com.

Distributed by JS International, one of the leading golf distributors to the trade in the UK and throughout Europe, Clicgrear’s range of innovative push trolleys has being going from strength to strength since its launch in 2007.

The headline trolley in the 2020 range is the Model 4.0, which features a host of upgrades from the best-selling Model 3.5, including a new console with added features, a new frame with an adjustable upper saddle to fit any brand of bag; fully adjustable silicone bag straps; plus a raised lower saddle provides extra clearance between the front wheel for ease of use. It is available in seven colours with new optional trim kits creating over 200 colour combinations. There is also an extensive accessory range for each model, including storage bags, wheel covers and attachable seats.

Also in the range for 2020 is the Rovic RV1C (£RRP 159), whose compact size and lightweight construction make it suitable for even the smallest car boot. Boasting Clicgear’s patented simple fold design, the Rovic boasts a solid aluminium and plastic construction and features new silicone straps to secure the bag in place, a handle-mounted parking brake, and a new ball clip has been added to save room for other essentials in the centre console.

JS International also distributes trolleys from Bag Boy and EZEGLIDE, with the former’s Nitro push trolley (£249) featuring a unique nitrogen-powered piston, which enables super-quick opening and closing, as well as a Top-Lok bag-to-trolley connection system, while EZEGLIDE’s Compact (£149.99) is a small but perfectly formed push trolley that tips the scales at just 5.8kg, but is packed with features, including a multi-functional console, with storage for drinks, tees, balls and pencils, and an adjustable soft-grip handle.

BIG MAX TI LITE PHANTOM

For all enquiries, email sales@jsint.com or visit www.jsint.com.

CLICKGEAR MODEL 4.0

TROLLEY MERCHANDISING TIPS • Attach compatible accessories – bags, winter wheels, hot mitts, drinks holders, mobile cradles, umbrellas and rain covers – to the showcase trolley to encourage additional sales.

• Set the trolley up to showcase its individual USP,

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such as compact-folding ability, touch screen GPS. • Use a display screen to show videos that explain key product benefits.

• Offer golfers a product trial before buying to build up consumer trust.

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TR A DE Q & A

ON THE

FRONT FOOT It’s been six years since Skechers launched into the golf shoe market. How pleased have you been with the reaction from consumers and retailers?

Skechers is a huge brand on the high street, and it’s a name that everyone associated with fashion, comfort, quality and value. So when Skechers launched into technical running and walking footwear with the Skechers Performance Division, golf just seemed to be the next logical step. Led by a team of experienced designers, the Skechers Performance Division was able to create stylish, technical, affordable and comfortable footwear. That encouraged golf pros and the industry in general to take us very seriously. Skechers’ comfort message, technology innovations, and the size and scope of the collections, really resonated with golfers and retailers, and helped spark and maintain growth in the UK. What technologies has Skechers transferred from its other footwear ranges into golf?

Skechers has always led with a ‘out of the box’ comfort message. It is what it built the brand on.

It was able to take some of the proprietary outsole and insole compounds from their running shoes and use them to create incredible golf footwear. The lightweight and responsive 5Gen outsole cushioning, combined with Resamax cushioned insoles, provide unrivalled levels of comfort and durability. We always feel that if we’re able to get a pair of shoes on a golfer’s feet, the chances of them buying them goes through the roof. For many retailers, it’s the fastest sale they make all day.

range in the world, but if the retailer can’t make money from it, they won’t even look at the brand. Skechers took that on board from the start.

What is the balance of sales between cleated and spikeless models?

Spikeless models have always been the majority seller. That being said, Skechers do offer three cleated options for men and one for women. They want to cover all bases and offer the retailer and the consumer a collection that covers all playing conditions.

How important has it been to have tour players wearing your shoes?

Having a tour profile is great for the brand. It presents Skechers to millions of viewers through the mediums of TV, print, digital and social media, and it allows the designers to the get honest feedback from players that wear golf shoes more often and for longer than the average golfer. Skechers’ pro staff ambassadors, which include the likes of Matt Kuchar, Billy Andrade, Russell Knox, Wesley Bryan, Brooke Henderson and Colin Montgomerie, all play a huge role in adding credibility to the brand story.

A selection of new designs from Skechers’ 2020 collection, including the Elite 4 Prestige, Max Fairway and Drive Shine

What other factors have driven sales?

Having a good-sized range that offers the retailer the chance to cater for all of their customers, without making that choice overwhelming, has been important. Skechers has 12 styles in each of its men’s and women’s ranges and two styles for juniors – small enough not to confuse, but big enough to provide choice. On-going evolution in style, technology and wide range of price points has been essential, as has ensuring the retailer has a decent profit margin. You can have the best

Craig Bousfield, marketing manager for YUMAX Golf, UK agents for Skechers, talks about what sets their shoes apart and the benefits of stocking the brand for retailers

How important are green grass sales?

The Skechers business is focussed around the pro, they are key to the business – both those in buying groups and those that prefer to operate independently. Skechers work closely with the main buying groups to make sure penetration and service of the green grass market is as good as it can be, they do a great job of presenting the ranges to their members through their various media channels. There are nine sales agents that that cover the UK and Ireland backed up by a customer service team based at the company’s UK head office in St Albans.

What sales support do you offer retailers?

Support for the pro comes in a variety of guises, from in-store POS slat wall kits in several sizes to a multi-drop delivery system geared to help with stock rotation and storage, extended terms on invoicing, and a facility for all pros to access a range of online assets, including product images, digital banners, video and product information. ●

To see the 2020 Skechers golf shoe range, visit www.skechers.com.

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TR A DE A P PA R E L AW 2 0

COLD COMFORT

In the first of a two-part series on the new apparel collections for Autumn/Winter 2020, we take a look at this season’s key pieces from Ping, Glenmuir, Sunderland of Scotland and FootJoy

GLENMUIR Arran midlayer

Crail midlayer

Elrick

Alissa

Jedburgh

Poppy

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Glenmuir’s Autumn/Winter collection for 2020 combines sustainable luxurious natural fibres and technical fabrics with contemporary design to create a product line crafted to perform in all weathers.

With Spring Green, Magenta and Ascot Blue featuring strongly throughout the range, among the headline pieces of outerwear for the coming season is the two-layer Storm Bloc Waterproof Jackets for men Elrick and ladies Poppy (RRP £80). These lightweight technical jackets are made from a soft touch interlock fabric, which is quiet and enhances freedom of movement with its four-way stretch properties.

In addition, the technical fabric is highly waterproof, windproof and breathable, creating a modern playable outer layer choice.

For Glenmuir’s signature Touch of Cashmere zip neck sweaters, contemporary sporty design meets natural fibres to create unique knitwear pieces that are breathable, stretch, soft to touch and have an anti-pill finish. Girvan, Jedburgh, Olivia and Alissa offer the golfer a fresh and bold take on traditional knitwear, while Bothwell and Nika reflect Glenmuir’s traditional heritage with subtle rib and cable detailing (£85). Each piece of knitwear is hand-knitted by craftsmen with stitches linked manually resulting in a long-lasting perfect fit and resilient flat seams.

The midlayer and padded collection continues to go from strength to strength with new colourway navy/light grey added to the lightweight brushed back Crail midlayer (£65), and ascot blue/light grey marl added to the popular quilted hybrid Arran, which combines a padded marl panel with fleece-backed stretch sleeves and side panels providing water and wind resistance, heat insulation and enhanced freedom of movement (£75). Bold magenta has proved popular for the ladies’ padded Sabine gilet (£80) and the stretch padded Madison hybrid jacket (£85).

The long sleeve performance pique polo shirts have been a great success for ladies (Misha) and for men (Max), with a new light grey marl colour added (£45). The fabric is active and highly functional with moisture wicking technology delivering breathability, UV protection, thermoregulation and enhanced freedom of movement.

The full collection will be available online and in store from August.

March 2020

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TR A DE A P PA R E L AW 2 0

Emerald Bay Collection

Hydro Knit

Arllington Collection

Valberg Jacket

Nevis

Whisper Dry Pro Lite Partner

FOOTJOY

SUNDERLAND OF SCOTLAND

Following the success of last season’s HydroKnit waterproof sweater, which feels like a mid-layer yet performs like a waterproof jacket, FootJoy has expanded the Hydro Knit range for AW20, with more colour options and the addition of HydroKnit trousers (RRP £160), a waterproof, tapered fit design that offers comfort, style and protection from the elements.

Fashioned from a three-layer bonded knit fabric, HydroKnit boasts a 15,000mm waterproof rating and is also an incredibly breathable, with a 15,000g/sqm Moisture Permeability rating, making it ideal for coping with the worst of winter weather conditions. The jacket is available in black with charcoal, navy with kelly, and sapphire with geranium, and has an RRP of £180.

Joining HydroKnit to headline the AW20 range is HLV2, the second generation of HydroLite.

In keeping with the industry trend of using more lightweight, stretchy and versatile fabrics, the 2.5-layer construction of HLV2 is 15% lighter than its predecessor, with 20% more stretch.

The AW20 range also feature a greater choice of thermal midlayers, and an extended mid-summer collection that includes two new colour stories. These shirts and mid-layers will be introduced to FootJoy’s European Tour players at The Open Championship ahead of their general release The two colour palettes for AW20 are ‘Arlington’, a classic sportswear combination grounded in navy, with bright summery hits of red and light blue, and Emerald Bay, which is key pop colour for the coming season.

Highlights from Sunderland’s AW20 men’s collection include the Whisperdry Pro-Lite jacket, which comes in a sporty Black Camo and is featherlight, breathable and fully waterproof with stretch (£150). Also new for 2020 is the Valberg jacket (£140), which features four-way stretch panels to promote freedom of movement throughout the swing. It is finished with silver reflective trims and features groove cleaning device on an elasticated pocket cord.

Windshirts made from a t four-way stretch fabric are extremely wind and shower proof whilst remaining lightweight. Silver/ Navy/Citrus colour options have been added to the Nevis (£80) and its half-sleeve counterpart, Himalayas (£80). The popular Coldwear range sees navy/silver/citrus colours added to the Anton Padded Gilet (£75) and Zermatt Padded Jacket (£80).

Both are built with a nylon padded down which retains heat whilst being lightweight and breathable.

Highlights from ladies collection includes the Killy jacket (£120), made from a lightweight, polyester stretch fabric in the new silver/aqua colourway. The Coldwear collection includes the Arosa (£70) thermal midlayer, the Nova water-repellent thermal fleece jacket (£80) and the Zonda stretch lined sweater (£75), all offered in Aqua. The Tania windproof padded gilet in navy/ white and aqua rounds out the collection.

Killy Jacket

Arosa Midlayer

Hydro Knit Trousers

The PGA Professional

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TR A DE A P PA R E L AW 2 0

PING

Partner

Ping’s Autumn/Winter 2020 apparel range builds on its innovative technology platforms and the latest premium fabrics, designed and engineered to allow golfers to adapt to the ever-changing climates, without compromising comfort or performance.

Fiona Reilly, Global Creative Director at PING, said: “Our new men’s and women’s collections have been engineered for winter golf. Our intelligent Sensor layering system - SensorDry, SensorWarm and SensorCool

– means the wearer can adapt to any sudden change of weather, without compromising their game.”

Describing the overall look of the collection, Reilly added: “A contemporary palette of shades sees the continuation of blues, reds and greens as key colour trends, with a combination of ‘Digital Blues’, ‘Enriched Red’ and ‘Modern Green’ providing a stylish and playable range. Patterns and fabrics take inspiration from modern architecture, clean lines, heritage diamond patterns and geometric shapes.”

Norse S2 Jacket

MEN’S AW20 COLLECTION

WOMEN’S AW20 COLLECTION

Highlights of the men’s collection includes the Norse S2 jacket (£150) which features PrimaLoft Silver Insulation active, which boasts stretch, thermal and water-resistant properties. It features a new chevron-quilted design and is available in black or grey with a pop of blue in a new two-way front zip.

The Norse S2 Zoned Jacket (£130) and Norse S2 Vest (£110) are insulated in PrimaLoft Gold Insulation with Cross Core to the chest and back body, while offering stretch properties. The vest is fully reversible and is able to pack down into a golf bag front pocket with ease. The Dover Jacket (£85) and Vest feature SensorWarm with a water-resistant, quilted and insulated front body f, while the Nordic mid-layer (£70) provides water resistance with a colour contrast half-zip and jacquard design upper body. Also in the mid-layer category, Mellor (£80) features a 3D honeycomb jacquard texture to the front and back body.

The slim-fit Vision winter trouser (£90), which offers comfort and protection in cold and wet weather, rounds out the collection.

Mellor

Clean geometric patterns with a heritage edge are the inspiration behind the Ping’s AW20 women’s collection.

The new Glow Jacket (£85) and Vest (£75) feature wind and water-resistant diamond printed panels to the body and sleeves. A brushed-back stretch fleece ensures warmth and freedom of movement. The Kira ‘Inky Print’ long-sleeved top (£60) features SensorCool for moisture-moving comfort, and is made with a peached fabric for enhanced softness.

The Florrie 3D jacquard fleece (£80) features bold, colour-block panelling and is engineered with SensorWarm properties to provide protection in cold conditions. A stretch fleece with honeycomb texture to the sleeves, front and back body, Florrie is available in grape and fuschia.

The Farrow winter trouser (£80) features a brushed-back fabric for comfort and warmth and a water-resistant finish.

The slim-leg design features parallel piping and is available in two colours.

Nordic Glow Jacket

Dover Jacket

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Logic

Kira

Florrie

March 2020

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CLUBFIT TING, CLUBM AKING AND REPAIRS TRAINING FOR PROFESSIONALS

NOW BOOKING FOR 2019/2020

BY

Diamond Golf, Europe’s leader in clubfitting and component supply, is now taking bookings for this winter’s DGI Academy courses in the arts of clubfitting, clubmaking and club repairs.

The DGI Academy courses cater for a wide range of abilities, from novice to advanced, and take place in a specially created purpose-built facility.

Each course runs in small groups to allow for personal one-to-one tuition.

Contact us today for a free brochure & prospectus: UK Freephone: 0800 083 7388

International: +44 (0) 1903 726999

dgiacademy@diamondgolf.co.uk

ADVERTORIAL

PGAPRO HP - DGI Academy 2019.indd 1

23/01/2020 16:36

Discover the perfect golf break surrounded by 1,000 acres of Cheshire countryside at Carden Park.

Featuring two championship golf courses, one designed by the great Jack Nicklaus and his son Steve, as well clubhouse and brand new PGA golf academy, Carden Park is a must visit.

With a variety of options from an overnight golf break including one round of golf to the ultimate golf getaway including three rounds, there is a choice for all golfers.

• Overnight 36 Holes – Overnight stay including dinner, full English breakfast and two rounds of golf, from £119 per person • Two night 54 Holes – Two-night stay including dinner each

night, full English breakfast and three rounds of golf, from £209 per person • Three night 72 Holes – Three-night stay including dinner each night, full English breakfast and four rounds of golf, from £315 per person Carden Park also recently opened the £10 million Spa at Carden, the UK’s ultimate destination for relaxation, with extensive spa garden and thermal facilities. There are also on site facilities for the whole family, ideal for the perfect break away.

Terms and conditions apply, prices are based on on two adults sharing a standard double or twin room.

For more information please visit www.cardenpark.co.uk The PGA Professional

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TRAVEL

MEMBERS

OFFERS IBEROSTAR CLUB PALMERAIE MARRAKECH 4*

Look no further for a selection of our best Pro Travel offers on end of season getaways for you and your members! Short flight times and warm temperatures mean you can make the most of your next golf break!

As PGA Professional booking through Golfbreaks, a Principal Partner of The PGA, you receive a 5% commission on all these prices, as well as benefiting from our Breakpoints loyalty scheme and a FREE Pro place with 7 amateurs!

KENZI ROSE GARDEN 5*

5 nights All Inclusive 3 rounds of Golf (Golf Al Maaden, Samanah Golf Club, Assoufid Golf Club) Average temperature From 28 degrees + Flight time approx. 3 hrs 40 mins

£495 per pers on

PESTANA GRAMACHO RESIDENCES 4 nights Bed & Breakfast 4 days Unlimited golf (Alto Golf, Gramacho, Vale da Pinta, Pestana Vila Sol or Silves Golf) Average temperature 22 degree + Flight time approx. 2 hrs 45 mins Fro

£319 m

5 nights All Inclusive 3 rounds of Golf (Golf Al Maaden, Samanah Golf Club, Assoufid Golf Club) Pro geos FREE with Average temperature From 28 degrees + Flight time approx. 3 hrs 40 mins

£595 per pers on

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON ISLANTILLA BEACH GOLF RESORT 4* 5 nights Half Board 5 days unlimited Golf Average temperature 23 degrees + Flight time approx. 2 hrs 45 mins

£389

per pers on

From

per pers on

For more information or to book your next break, get in touch with our dedicated Pro Travel Team 01753 752 880 | pga@golfbreaks.com |

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@Golfbreaks_Pro |

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TRAVEL

FEELING THE

HEAT…..

WHY SHOULD I ENTER A TEAM? PICK UP A CHEQUE The majority of Pro-Ams have a guaranteed prize fund for professionals ranging anywhere from £4000 upwards.

If you have a good week you can easily pick up a nice cheque, and as most prize funds pay out lower down the leaderboard, you’re still guaranteed to make money even if you have a bad week!

Competing in overseas Pro-Ams are a great way to take a small group of members or clients away to experience a golf break with a competitive edge! With free places for pros, guaranteed prize funds and winter sun, what’s not to like about playing in a Pro-Am!

PLAY COMPETITIVE GOLF Playing in Pro-Ams through the winter months gives you the opportunity to play some of the best golf courses in the world and experience it with a group of your members who will undoubtedly be talking about the tournament to their friends and colleagues for many years to come. The best form of free PR for you!

AMATEUR EXPERIENCE Your team will be singing your praises to everyone who wants to listen on their return home and provides you with the opportutunity to create a life-long bond with your team-mates. For a lot of amateurs, to play golf in a competitive environment on some of the best courses in the world with their home professional is their ultimate golfing experience and provides them with bragging rights over their fellow members back at the golf club.

FEEL THE HEAT Who doesn’t enjoy playing golf with the sun on their back?! Pro-Ams represent the perfect opportunity to escape the cold and dreary winter and enjoy playing some fantastic golf courses in shorts and t-shirts, with a collar of course! Your members are guaranteed to enjoy it!

GOLFBREAKS INTERNATIONAL PRO-AM 2021 Has reading this whet your appetite? Golfbreaks runs its own annual Pro-Am and we are currently planning our 2021 event. With a truly International field and guaranteed prize-fund, played on some of the worlds leading courses, this is an event not to be missed. Keep your eyes on our website for further information or if you would like to be notified once the event is launched then get in touch with the Pro Travel Team to register your interest.

The Golfbreaks Pro-Am is a great event to be a part of. An opportunity to play great courses and escape the British winter. It provides me with the opportunity to take members of my club away for a break and play some competitive golf through the winter. The event is always well organised, and we are certainly well looked after when we arrive in resort. My team and I will definitely be coming on the next one!

Rich Pace – Head Professional, Beverley & East Riding GC & Golfbreaks Pro Travel Partner

Register your interest for the Golfbreaks International Pro-Am 2021 01753 752 880 | pga@golfbreaks.com |

The PGA Professional

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TRAVEL

IN THE KNOW FLIGHTS: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes with plenty of direct flights to Paphos from most major UK airports.

You can also fly to Larnaca on the North East of the island.

Aphrodite Hills

TRANSFERS: Approximately 20 minutes from Paphos Airport BEST TIME TO TRAVEL: September to April EXTRAS: FREE buggies included at Aphrodite Hills TRY: Take a trip to the on-site Pithari Tavern for some excellent traditional Greek meze!

APHRODITE HILLS PACKAGE 5 nights Half Board at Aphrodite Hills Resort 3 rounds of golf (Aphrodite Hills, Elea GC & Secret Valley) Pro goes FREE with 7 amateurs FREE buggies at Aphrodite Hills Based on October 2020 travel from £769 per person

STAY: Crowned European Golf Resort of the Year in 2018, the 5* Aphrodite Hills Resort boasts fine dining restaurants, an award-winning luxury spa, infinity pools and a beach club as well as 2 different accommodation options.

With 290 luxurious rooms, Holiday Residences and various board options available from bed & breakfast to allinclusive and there are packages to suit every budget at the Aphrodite Hills Hotel. If the 3 restaurants located in the hotel don’t take your fancy, you’ll find an array of bars, restaurants and shops at the bustling village square.

PLAY: An outstanding championship layout & recently named PGA National - Cyprus, the 6928-yard par 71 Cabell Robinson design course sits amid breath-taking scenery, with glorious views over the glistening Mediterranean.

The course is perfect for any standard of player, challenging from the back tees but very playable from the forward tees.

The course, designed to a world-class standard, underwent a €2.5m investment and upgrade in 2017 and recently attained the highest standard recognition in golf, the PGA National stamp.

Make sure you look out for the iconic Par 3 which entails a tee shot over a 130-metre gauge – a serious test for even the best golfers!

COACHING FACILITIES: Aphrodite Hills has everything you need to run the perfect coaching break. The resort benefits from: • 3-hole Academy Course, • Double ended driving range • Variety of short game areas and putting greens • Golfbreaks can reserve a private area for your group and include unlimited balls in your package.

Always a popular resort, Aphrodite Hills is perfect for any type of golf trip and a great option for a winter getaway. The facilities at the resort are first class with a great mix of bars and restaurants ensuring your group can enjoy the full experience Aphrodite Hills has to offer.

Receive 5% commission on this price

James Martin – Business Development Manager, Golfbreaks Pro Travel Team

For more information on how the Golf Pro Travel team can help please contact: 01753 752 880 | email pga@golfbreaks.com |

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TRAVEL

IN THE KNOW Our #1 selling Pro Travel venue FLIGHTS: Approximately 2 hours 40 minutes to Faro Airport with plenty of direct flights out of all major UK airports TRANSFER TIMES: Approximately 40 minutes transfer from Faro Airport

Amendoeira STAY Amendoeira Golf Resort, hidden away amongst the picturesque Monchique Mountains in Silves, has everything you need to create an unforgettable experience for your members. The resort itself is one of the finest in the country and has been previously voted “Portugal’s Leading Golf Resort” at the World Travel Awards.

The 5-star resort offers a mix of modern apartments and villas and is on the doorstep of arguably two of the most prestigious golf courses in the Algarve. The elevated clubhouse benefits from extensive panoramic views over both courses making it the perfect spot to sit and unwind with your group after a hard day on the fairways.

PLAY With 2 x 18 hole courses on-site, the crown jewel at the resort is the eponymous Sir Nick Faldo design (The Faldo Course), which since opening a decade ago has become a regular feature in Europe’s top 100 courses. The

signature course is complemented by Christy O’Connor Jnr’s (The O’Connor Course) enticing design, flatter in comparison to it’s sister course but still delivers a test to rival the very best that Portugal has to offer.

Amendoeira also boasts a 9-hole Par 3 Academy course – the only floodlit course in Portugal and is perfect for beginners and those looking to sharpen up their game.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL: Late Feb to April & September to November EXTRAS: FREE buggies, FREE range balls and Unlimited golf is included as standard!

TRY: Make sure you play the stunning 9 hole Par 3 course under the floodlights – great fun for your group!

AMENDOEIRA PACKAGE EXCLUSIVE LIMITED TIME OFFER

COACHING FACILITIES If you are looking to run a coaching break then Amendoeira is one of the best resorts you could take your clients to in Europe. The extensive facilities include: • 3 putting greens • Double ended grass driving range • Fantastic short game area.

Facilities can be reserved dependent on your coaching itinerary and packages including unlimited range balls for 2 hours can be included in your package from Golfbreaks.

Amendoeira Resort is 5* in every way. The teaching facilities are where this place excels itself. A double ended range, an under 100 yards area, 2 big chipping greens and a large putting green mean all aspects of the game can be taught. This venue is hard to beat for all aspects of a golf holiday or a tuition break!

Martyn Jobling – Director of Golf, Macdonald Linden Hall Golf & Country Club & Golfbreaks Pro Travel Partner

3 nights bed & breakfast 3 days unlimited Golf Pro goes FREE with 7 amateurs FREE Buggies FREE Range balls FREE Welcome Dinner FREE pack of 6 beers per person Book by end of April for October/ November 2020 travel From £265 per person RECEIVE 5% commission on this price

For more information on how the Golf Pro Travel team can help please contact: 01753 752 880 | email pga@golfbreaks.com |

The PGA Professional

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ADVERTORIAL

Coaching Breaks under the Tuscan Sun

GOLF IN ONE OF TUSCANY’S MOST UNSPOILT REGIONS…

P

icturesque vineyards, rolling hills, quaint fishing villages, crystal clear waters and a WWF-protected lagoon: these are some of the beguiling landscape features that surround the PGA National Italy, Argentario Golf Resort & Spa, in south west Tuscany.

The 5-star resort is home to an eco-friendly 18-hole championship golf course that is playable at any time of the year thanks to the temperate climate of the Maremma.

The par 71, 6,218 metre golf course is a deceptively varied and technically-challenging layout. The undulating front nine runs in and out of cork-oak woods showcasing local flora and fauna whilst the back nine meanders gently through romantic, centuries-old olive groves at the foothills of Monte Argentario.

Spring, with its fresh sunny weather and cloudless skies, is a perfect time for golf breaks, especially as the golf course is that much quieter at this time of the year.

The Argentario Golf Club is the ideal place for group coaching breaks thanks to its extensive

practice facilities which include a driving range with 27 driving stations and three putting greens, a practice bunker and two pitching greens for honing one’s short game.

It also boasts a Callaway Golf Academy which houses a TrackMan IIIe simulator.

The Club House is also home to a Pro Shop and a stylish, yet informal, restaurant and bar overlooking the golf course up to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The expansive wooden deck is a great spot for some post-golf refreshment whilst the restaurant serves local Tuscan dishes.

A second restaurant, called Dama Dama, is located in the main building of Resort, offering gourmet cuisine.

Upon arrival, golfers are personally welcomed by the golf manager, Ottavio Coppola. Mr Coppola and his team will look after all the golfers’ needs during their stay at Argentario.

PGA Members who bring groups for coaching and playing holidays enjoy complimentary accommodation at the Resort.

MORE THAN JUST GOLF …

After a long day practising their skills, golfers can enjoy a range of massages or go for a relaxing swim in the heated indoor swimming pool. Espace Wellness Centre also includes a Turkish bath, sauna, Kneipp circuit and a spacious gym amongst its other services.

Additional facilities include two tennis and two padel courts, a mini-football pitch and two jogging trails.

Groups can also enjoy a range of bespoke activities such as wine and olive oil tastings, cooking lessons, e-cycling and trekking as well as guided tours to villages off the beaten track and to famous cities such as Rome, Pisa and Florence.

AN ECO-FRIENDLY EXPERIENCE… Argentario boasts state-of-the-art architecture and interior design with sustainability at the heart of the luxurious resort. There are 73 rooms and suites at the Resort as well as 5 independent luxury villas overlooking the golf course and available to rent or buy.

Argentario is easily accessible from Rome Fiumicino Airport by car in just 90 minutes, as well as Florence and Pisa’s airports, just a little further away. www.argentarioresort.com

For other deals and tailored programmes, please email segreteria@argentariogolfclub.it 44

March 2020

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COACHING

DRIVING WOMEN’S GOLF: xxxxxx

FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE I

n 2018 the R&A launched the Women in Golf Charter to inspire all sectors of the industry to develop a more inclusive culture and to enable more women and girls to reach their potential in the game. Over 100 organisations including the PGA signed up to the charter, all pledging to build on current initiatives and develop new projects to increase the number of women and girls playing golf.

At a global level the positive messages within the charter have put women’s golf in the spotlight, however these initiatives only come ‘to life’ if PGA Professionals working at club level have the coaching knowledge and understanding to deliver successful programmes to encourage long term participation.

As the coaching community shifts towards using evidence-based practice, it is important to reflect on the knowledge base that underpins our coaching practice.

This article will provide some insights into how Advanced PGA Professional Mark Pilling used Self Determination Theory when setting up a beginner women’s programme at his club in Cheshire.

GETTING STARTED Two years ago we began a recruitment drive for new women members. To provide some context, Prestbury

PGA Advanced Professional Mark Pilling shares ideas about how to design a successful women’s beginner programme.

Golf Club is a traditional private members club with a challenging course and relatively small membership.

Historically, it had the perception of being a club you joined once you had ‘learnt’ to play. Twenty-four months and three beginners’ programmes later Prestbury Golf Club has fifteen new women members, coaching revenue has increased whilst shop and bar sales have also grown.

THE THEORY Put simply, Self Determination Theory suggests humans require fulfilment of three basic psychological needs to maintain optimal motivation; autonomy, competence and relatedness. If the environment fosters these three areas, a person is more likely to persevere within the sport, enjoy the inherent challenges involved and become a life-long participant.

“

I would argue the first session and initial experience is the most important in the whole process”

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COACHING

THE PRACTICE CREATING AUTONOMOUS LEARNERS To develop a student’s level of autonomy it’s important to understand why they have decided to try golf for the first time. If we can understand someone’s ‘why’ we can develop a curriculum tailored to their wants and needs.

So before your programme starts call each person to introduce yourself and ask why they want to join your group and what they are expecting from your programme.

In my experience, many women’s have been keen to try the game but time restrictions and work and family commitments have made it difficult. To accommodate this, hold your sessions at convenient times, for example after the school run in the morning.

We can also increase our students’ levels of autonomy and learning by offering choices within coaching sessions.

For example, once a basic understanding of each club has been discussed, offering students a choice of which club they would like to use to complete various tasks is likely to develop a better understanding than just telling them which club to use. Using this type of autonomy supportive coaching can lead to students expecting to do better thus leading to a perception of success.

DEVELOPING COMPETENCE I would argue the first session and initial experience is the most important in the whole process. Put yourself in the shoes of a beginner. What is THE most important thing to feel at the end of your first session? I CAN do it! If we can foster a feeling of competence right from the very start, it energises people to come back and have another go. Here are my favourite starter tasks for the first session.

1.

2.

Set up three 15-20ft putts on the green. The first task is to complete the three holes in 12 or less.

Once this has been achieved the next challenge is to play the three holes in 9 or less - your players have just played their first holes!

Once task one is complete, introduce a chip shot from around 5 yards from the green and challenge your players to get the ball in the hole in 4 shots.

If successful move back another five yards.

These short holes / games open up wonderful opportunities to coach playing skills rather than ‘formally teaching’ each aspect in isolation. Over the course of six sessions, gradually make the holes more difficult in line with the ability of your group. As a general rule, I want participants to be able to complete a task around 60/70% of the time.

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS Making sure your new starters feel socially connected to both your tuition group and the club’s women’s section is fundamental to the long term success of your initiative.

To build the feeling of a community within your coaching group, use WhatsApp to share pictures from the sessions, send out tasks to do between lessons and answer any questions from the group. Having a group space for comments allows people to hear what other players are going through and makes the learning journey more of a shared experience.

Joining a golf club for the first time can seem very daunting and sometimes expensive. At the end of your programme, a membership offer is key to converting players from coaching to joining the club. We have found offering a temporary six month membership allows players to experience club life and get a real feel for the game without the financial commitment of full membership.

Over ninety percent of our temporary members have converted into full memberships at the end of the six months.

During this period, developing a mentoring system can really help players integrate into the women’s section.

Acting as an intermediary between coaching and the club, mentors can help new players develop not only confidence on the course but also around the clubhouse and getting to know other people. The key to success is working with a mentor with high levels of empathy and someone that understands the ups and downs of learning the game.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? Following on from the initial programme and membership, holding a series of beginner competitions helps educate players in the different formats of the game and to compete in a supportive environment. Texas Scramble followed by betterball before moving to Stableford is a nice progression.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PGA PROFESSIONALS • • •

MARK PILLING

•

Understand ‘why’ players want to start the game and build a curriculum around THEM. Build a feeling of competence by starting easy and SLOWLY increase the difficulty.

Create a sense of community both within your group AND with the women’s section.

Using volunteer mentors is key to integrating new women within the club. ●

CONTACT MARK ON: T: 07709879570 | E: mark@mpgolfacademy.co.uk W: www.markpilling.co.uk | Twitter: @MarkPillingPGA

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MARKETING

HOW TO USE THE

MOST POWERFUL THREE LETTERS IN GOLF TO BOOST YOUR MARKETING

n BY ANTJE DERKS

T

he letters PGA are known worldwide by golfers and non-golfers alike. They are part of a solid, time-tested and trusted brand. Up until recently, PGA Members were only allowed to use the PGA Crest on marketing materials, but now, with the development of a new logo, you can use the three most powerful letters in golf with pride, a badge that is underpinned by the brand strategy of making golf happen.

So how can you use it to your best advantage?

Well, firstly, you should absolutely use it. The letters and crest will verify you and your personal brand as being part of something bigger, world-renowned and trusted. Indeed, it is such a great opportunity, I would advise updating all your marketing materials - and social media profiles - to reflect this change.

Looking at the newly refreshed brand guidelines, there is a choice of two logos - choose the one you prefer and then stick with it to give a consistency to your marketing and brand strategy. Switching between the two will dilute the impact and might cause confusion. Furthermore, it is worth noting that the use of the logo (s) is for PGA Members only and not PGA training assistants - this is the same for both the letters and the members’ crest.

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WHERE CAN I USE THE LOGO? • • Headed notepaper and stationery • • Business cards • • Marketing material (including brochures, catalogues, flyers and advertisements) • • Website (excluding the Crest logo) • • Email signatures • • Own signage, apparel and accessories including golf bags etc.

WHERE CAN’T I USE THE LOGO? The list is not exhaustive, and Members are allowed to submit other items to the Association for consideration. However, ‘for the avoidance of doubt, the logo may not be used on merchandise, gifts or prizes’.

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MARKETING

THE MEMBERS’ CREST The Members’ Crest is an alternative that you can use depending on your preference. The crest defines Members by formally recognising your experience, further education, achievements and accreditations and is a strong part of the brand’s heritage.

WHERE CAN I USE THE AGREED CREST?

THE MEMBER’S LOGO The PGA Member’s Logo occupies a privileged position within the brand’s overall hierarchy. Indeed, The PGA is actively seeking to encourage all qualified Professionals to use the logo and promote themselves as members of the association and to use the logo, which is a registered trademark and has now been extended for the exclusive use of PGA Members.

What’s really rather excellent is that you can also include your name. However, if you go down that route, you need to make sure that the words Professional or your APAL designation accompanies the logo in upper case and the logo does not appear on its own as a separate entity.

The brand guidelines state that the ‘APAL designation must be in full – i.e PGA Advanced Professional. Every use of the logo must be accompanied by the trademark ownership line which must appear even if it is at the bottom of the page or on the back of a business card. It can be used in very small print, but it must be used in order to safeguard the trademark. It is really important to adhere to these caveats in order to ensure the integrity of the brand as a whole.

When it comes to using the logo on apparel and retail, there are specific requirements concerning colours - the guidelines and specifications can be downloaded from the Members’ Area of the website.

The Association is very clear regarding the fact that the logo ‘must not be used on any merchandise to be sold, as it is intended for personal promotional use only’.

Indeed, you can also use the logo on retail signage (see the personal brand article this month about utilising marketing tools such as flyers and pop-up banners). The major proviso here is that the logo must be used with your name to indicate that you are a Member of the Association rather than a PGAapproved facility. ●

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• Headed notepaper and stationery • Business cards • Marketing material (including brochures, catalogues, flyers and advertisements) • Email signatures • Your own apparel and accessories, including golf bag etc.

WHERE CAN’T I USE THE AGREED CREST? The Crest may not be used on merchandise, gifts or prizes.

This is a fantastic opportunity to have the full weight of a globally recognised brand behind you and visible on your marketing materials. It automatically builds trust and sets you apart from others who are not members. On a final note we would be keen to hear from Professionals who have adopted the letters and have incorporated them into their personal brand.

The PGA Professional versions of the both the Letters and Crest logos, together with the guidelines can be downloaded from the Members’ Area of the website. To obtain a copy of other variations e.g. Master Professional etc. or if you require one of the different colourways, please contact membership@pga. org.uk or call on +44(0) 1675 470 333.

March 2020

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www.pga.info

PERSONAL BRANDING

ARE YOU MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR RETAIL SPACE TO PROMOTE YOUR PERSONAL BRAND? n BY ANTJE DERKS Your personal brand is not only a way of establishing - but also consistently reinforcing - what you stand for as a professional golfer. Everything you do will either strengthen your brand or dilute it.

You might not be a fan of blowing your own trumpet, but early on in my career, I realised that if I didn’t shout about my talents and achievements, very few others would. It was a rude awakening, because I - like you - had hoped that my work and reputation would speak for itself. Sadly not.

Indeed, as a PR and marketing specialist, I knew that positive public relations had a massive impact on brands, so it dawned on me that I had to take control of my own PR within the organisations I worked in order to grow my own personal brand to gain the recognition I deserved.

A lot of golf professionals either run - or help to run - the pro-shop at their club or course, but hardly anyone is making the most of this opportunity to push their personal brand. Many pros also mistakenly think that everyone at their club knows who they are and what they have to offer.

Every pro-shop will have significant footfall from visitors and club members and while it is a great opportunity for you to push sales of goods and promote your stock, it is the ideal place to promote you and your personal brand as well - but it’s not something many of you do. So what can you do to raise awareness of what you have to offer?

It may seem obvious, but getting some decent flyers printed outlining your coaching offerings and your specialisms is a great place to start. You could have them on the counter in a prominent position next to the till, where your customers will see them while you are sorting out their

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transaction. In order to entice new clients, you could have a one-time discount voucher attached for first time customers who book a lesson (s) with you using the code on the leaflet - this also means you can track how successful this marketing approach is. Make flyers eye-catching, but not over-busy, so your message is not diluted. Have one standard version and then you could design a couple of others - and do smaller print runs - for seasonal offers. Indeed, if customers don’t take one, do draw their attention to it and explain some of the benefits - they have their potential coach standing in front of them, so sell yourself and your services. Further, the flyers need not be confined to the shop. Speak to the club manager and see whether you could have a little ‘pro corner’ in the main club house where you could display your leaflets.

In order to capture new business, you need to grab your customer’s attention.

Online marketing is great, but traditional marketing still has its place. As with flyers, pop-up banners are still one of the most effective ways to attract clients and get them to engage with your services. You may think that banners are only useful at events, but that’s not true at all. A strategically placed banner will lead to new business. Like the flyers, you could have a

KEY THINGS TO INCLUDE ON YOUR FLYER: Your name Contact details - including mobile, website, email What you offer - single lessons, block bookings at a discount Specialisms (young people, women, special needs) PGA crest or letters

standard one that outlines your services and is ‘ever-green’, but if you are launching something new - like summer coaching for school children for example - you could have an additional pop-up banner printed to promote this. They don’t take up much space, so storage is easy. Position them strategically - where customers queue (till area) and enter the shop (outside the door). Further, if you negotiate having a pro corner, you could have a banner there too.

Don’t forget, advertising your services in the right way is key to attracting new clients, which will lead to more turnover and growth. Using traditional marketing tools like flyers and pop-up banners in the pro-shop and in the clubhouse are cost effective and affordable ways to draw attention to - and promote - your brand. ●

POP-UP BANNER ESSENTIALS Make sure your branding is consistent with your website, social media and flyers etc Use the same logo in all your branding Use the PGA crest or letters to ensure you instill trust Make sure contact details are prominent Make sure they are strategically positioned for maximum impact

#makinggolfhappen

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www.pga.info 49

Insight Wellbeing at Work is provided

by Insight Healthcare on behalf of ARAG Information about the service: We can all be faced with challenges in our personal or work lives that can make us feel low, or as through we are unable to cope.

Insight provide a service on behalf of ARAG, offering free confidential support for a range of personal and work-related issues.

Issues that may benefit from support include: Personal issues:

Call us today on:

0333 000 2082

▪ Trauma ▪ Abuse ▪ Pregnancy & childbirth ▪ Personal development ▪ Phobias ▪ Self-esteem ▪ Sexuality

▪ Relationship difficulties ▪ Family problems ▪ Bereavement ▪ Loss ▪ Coping with illness ▪ Money worries ▪ Caring for others

Work-related difficulties: ▪ Interpersonal difficulties ▪ Restructure ▪ Change in role/ responsibilities ▪ Disciplinary or grievance matters ▪ Harassment or bullying ▪ Redudancy ▪ Time management

▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Work-life balance Pressure Managing a team Performance Management /Review ▪ Job security ▪ Stress ▪ High workload

24hr Counselling Helpline

The helpline offers access to free, confidential support and advice 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The service is extended to immediate family members living in the same household.

What to Expect when you Call

You will speak with a qualified and experienced counsellor who will be able to provide you with practical advice and support on how best to cope with your difficulties.

Please ensure that you have at least 20 minutes free to talk to the counsellor and are in a quiet, private space where you won’t be interrupted.

If you learn to spot symptoms early and identify situations that may be emotionally challenging, you can prevent problems from escalating.

Confidentiality

Insight Healthcare complies with the data protection Act and GDPR guidelines.

This means that information relating to you and the support provided to you will remain confidential to us unless we have your consent to share it, or where there is a risk to you or someone else.

24h

Call us today on:

0333 000 2082

MEMBERSHIP

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR THE PGA MEMBER REWARDS THIS MOTHER’S DAY From elegant flowers to unforgettable weekends away, we’ve got you covered for Mother’s Day (22 March 2020).

PGA BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP OFFICERS (BRO’S) The BRO’s are in place to support you, The PGA Member.

They are here to help forge stronger links within the industry and provide PGA Professionals with a free service, designed to support and improve the personal and professional lives of our Members. A wide variety of support is provided including (but not limited to): • • • • • • •

Business Reviews & Health Check Contracts & HR Marketing & Retail advice Negotiating Retainers The business of coaching support Developing customer relationships Identification of targeted training courses and educational opportunities • Building relationships within your golf club and/or facility

For more information, contact tina.banner@pga.org.uk or call 01675 470 333.

Legal Advice If you live in the UK and ROI, free legal advice is available from ARAG plc. 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 0330 303 1846.

PAYE/National Insurance advice BDO LLP offer a free helpline to members. Contact michael. hepburn@bdo.co.uk or call on 0131 347 0355

Public liability insurance Cover is included in your subscription fee. Contact emma.hadlow@ pga.org.uk or call 01675 470 333 for your individual certificate.

For any claims contact Howden on 0121 698 8050. Visit the dedicated PGA insurance site at: pgainsurance.co.uk

VAT advice For support with golf-related VAT issues, contact stephen.phillips@ pga.org.uk or call 01675 470 333

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THIS MONTH’S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: 15% off beautiful bouquets with Interflora The UK’s most trusted name in flower delivery is delivering The PGA members an exclusive 15% off their stunning range of gorgeously chic bouquets*.

Great savings on a wide range of Apple products If your mum is a tech-lover, then treat her to an awe-inspiring gadget from the world’s best-loved technology provider. You can save on the 16” Macbook Pro, iPhone 11 Pro/Pro Max, Airpods and much more* Catch the latest blockbusters and save money on tickets Get up to 40% off your cinema trip with fantastic discounts available at over 300 nationwide venues. Whether you are seeking action, romance, comedy or thriller, enjoy a great saving every time at local cinemas and nationwide chains such as ODEON, Vue and Cineworld*.

Savings on Cottage Holidays Save up to 10% on cottage and short break holidays with CottageStayUK who work with over 18,000 cottages and villas in the UK and Europe to give members maximum choice. They can help you find the right property for your Mother’s Day holiday, at a great price*.

6% Discount at over 120 of the UK’s top retailers Lifestyle vouchers offer a choice of everyday treats from the high-street, online, leisure and travel sectors - with over 120 of the UK’s biggest brand names. This includes John Lewis, M&S, Xbox, Currys PC World, Argos, Halfords, Sky Store, Caffe Nero, Costa, ODEON, Pub Tokens and B&Q plus many more*.

To take advantage of these and other fantastic deals, log into www.pga.info, select Member Benefits then click ‘Find out more’. *Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers correct at time of printing.

Offers subject to change without notice. Apple - Annual purchase limits apply. Discounts are subject to availability. For the latest offers visit the Apple EPP store. The Cinema Society - Discounts vary between cinema venues. Please check when purchasing vouchers, registration to The Cinema Society required to access discount. CottageStayUK - Savings of up to 10% off all cottage reservations. Interflora - Code must be entered at the checkout to redeem discount. Code cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. All products are subject to Interflora standard delivery unless otherwise stated. Standard delivery is next day at £7.00. Free Delivery by courier is only on our free delivery plants rangis next day via courier. Other delivery options available. At certain times of the year delivery prices may vary. Some delivery services are subject to availability and may be withdrawn without notice during busy periods.

Some restrictions may also apply to certain delivery locations. PGA Benefit web pages are managed and run by Parliament Hill Limited. Within those benefits are some benefits negotiated directly by PGA, and these are identified on the benefit web page.

March 2020

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www.pga.info

MEMBERSHIP Speak to our Specialist Nurses

0800 074 8383* prostatecanceruk.org The helpline is open Mon-Fri 10am-4pm, Wed 7pm-9pm *Calls are recorded for training purposes only.

Confidentiality is maintained between callers and Prostate Cancer UK.

Smarter Business Business expertise helping Golf facilities to save on essential business services. For more info on how we can help, contact 01444 220 060, info@smarterbusiness.co.uk and visit smarterbusiness.co.uk

SkyTrak Become a SkyTrak Show Case Dealer and earn a bonus 40% affiliate fee on your first sale and 20% fee on any future sales. Call 01844 296358 or email sales@skycaddiegps.co.uk for more info.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE

WE’LL HELP YOU EARN MORE FROM YOUR GREEN FEE REVENUE In partnership with The PGA, GoPlayGolf is designed to help you and your golf club benefit from the ever increasing numbers of golfers booking golf on-line.

Rangefinder by SkyCaddie PGA Members save over £150 on the new SkyCaddie SX500. Call 01844 296358 or email sales@skycaddiegps.co.uk for more info.

6 BENEFITS TO YOU, THE GOLF PRO • Increase your green fee revenue • You pay less commission • You control the price • Bringing new golfers to you by providing an additional distribution channel • Works seamlessly with existing tee time booking systems • You don’t need an online booking system to benefit

Turf Maintenance Equipment by Toro Take advantage of a special offer on the Prostripe Rear Roller Mower for your clubhouse surroundings. For more product information, visit ‘toro.com/prostripeuk’. To place an order on this offer or learn more, please share your contact details at pgamembers@toro.com

email: info@goplaygolf.co.uk for information

Golfplan from A-Plan Insurance* Card Payment Services

by First Data* Preferential rates to PGA Members for accepting credit and debit cards. Call 0330 123 1241 quoting PGA.

Health and Wellbeing Support The PGA is committed to providing support for its Members and offers access to a 24/7 service provided by Insight Healthcare. A totally confidential helpline which is manned by trained counsellors who can provide help and advice on any matter that is causing anxiety, concern or depression. The service is also available to Members’ close family and employees. If you feel you or someone close to you needs help, the number to call is 0333 000 2082.

Members can earn £20 commission for each client introduced who goes on to purchase a Golfplan policy. For further information about becoming an Introducer, please contact the Golfplan team on 01527 868 160 or email info@golfplan.co.uk

Golf Trolleys by PowaKaddy 15% off trade price for account holders, personal use trolley.

Call 01795 473 555 or email sales@powakaddy.co.uk quoting membership number.

Huxley Golf Incentive programme of up to £500 in commission when recommending customers to purchase an all-weather home putting green. Call 01730 829 608 or visit huxleygolf.com

IT Services by Silverbug* Offering members a free IT health check of their business; up to three months free managed IT services when taking out a contract with an option to leave within the first three months if you change your mind. For more information contact 0207 078 3795 quoting PGA.

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LG Products Special offers on selected LG products for PGA members. For the most up-to-date offers, log into member benefits, select the ‘Shopping’ section.

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MEMBERSHIP Club Car To discuss your golf cart requirements, contact Kevin Hart, Sales Director – EMEA at: kevin_hart@eu.irco.com or call +44 1785 280 344. Members in Ireland can contact Liam Ross at The Buggyman at: liam@buggyman.net

Personalised Luggage

by Asbri Golf PGA Members receive 20% off our luggage range. To view the full range visit www.asbrigolf.co.uk/pga-members-luggage. Please contact sales@asbri.co.uk or 02922 678 842 quoting ‘PGA Crested Luggage’.

Pink Vehicle Leasing Visit https://pga.pinkcarleasing.co.uk to view deals then contact the team on 0116 402 6500 to place an order, quoting your PGA Membership Number. Earn £75 for every client/club member referral who leases a car, just share the website details, your PGA Membership Number and have them give Pink Vehicle Leasing a call.

BMW* Exclusive contract hire rates on a selection of BMW and MINI models through BMW Group. Visit www.bmwpgasales.co.uk, call 0207 514 3599 or email pgasales@bmw-issd.co.uk

XPOS by Crossover Technologies XPOS is the sales and stock management solution for golf retail, used by professionals to reduce stock and improve profit. PGA Members quote PGAX01 to receive three months free XMAIL, the integrated customer email service. Contact on 01454 418 395 or via the CHAT button at crossovertec.co.uk

Travel Insurance by Staysure* 20% off † travel insurance for members and their families as well as £10 every time someone takes out a policy on your recommendation. For every 10 policies sold in 1 calendar month, we will give you an additional ±£100. For more info log into member benefits, select the ‘Finance & Insurance’ and ‘Over 50s Travel Insurance’ section.

Aphrodite Hills Golf & Spa Resort 25% off for members on holiday residences public rates and 20% off hotel package rates (terms apply)††. For availability and prices email: Hotel Packages – reservations@aphroditehills.com Residences – reservations_mgr_AH@atlanticahotels.com For pro coaching groups, check with PGA Travel Partners.

Antalya Golf Club Attractive, all-inclusive rates for members and family.

For The Sirene Hotel contact: volkan.cavusoglu@sirene.com.tr For Kempinski The Dome Hotel contact: michael.jones@agc.com.tr

Argentario Golf Resort & Spa 20% off the flexible rate at www.argentariogolfresortspa.it. For availability and prices on bespoke packages for members/clients, email booking@argentarioresort.it or call +39 0564 810292 quoting PGA Member

Slieve Russell Golf & Country Club 20% off B&B rates on www.slieverussell.ie For availability and prices email slieve.reservations@slieverussell.ie on or call +353 49 952 6444 quoting membership number.

Formby Hall Golf & Spa Resort Golfbreaks.com Access to bespoke golfing packages for you and your clients through the dedicated Golf Pro Travel Team. Receive 5% commission on your booking. For an exploratory meeting at your club, contact Ben Foster on 07471 034 852 or email pga@ golfbreaks.com

Virgin Atlantic Flights Offering all PGA Members discounted airfares across the whole network, with checked golf bag clearance (subject to availability).

Contact the Traveleads sports team on 0113 242 2202 or email pga@traveleads.net quoting your PGA membership number.

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Rates from £95pp including use of the pool and health club. Spa days from £49 pp. PGA deals available Sun – Thur. Members receive 10% commission on new golf bookings for groups of 12 or more. Contact Mark Williams on 01704 875 699 or reservations@ formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk quoting your membership number.

For more detailed information and to take advantage of these and other fantastic deals, log into www.pga.info, select Member Benefits then click ‘Find out more’. *Only available to PGA Members in the UK. Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers subject to change without notice. †Discount only applies to the base premium of your travel insurance quote and does not apply to any medical screening premiums where relevant. Offer ends 31 December 2020.’. Terms and Conditions apply. ±£10 for every travel insurance policy sold, plus an additional £100 for every 10 policies sold in 1 calendar month. Please allow up to 45 days to receive your cashback. Cashback will be paid to you directly via The PGA. If the policy is cancelled within the 14 day cooling off period no payment will be made. ††Pay directly in the hotel; flexible cancellation policy; valid only in low and mid-season; the discount can only be applied on the flexible rate and not on other rates or special offers.

March 2020

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www.pga.info

EMPLOYMENT O P P O R T U N I T I E S

Headingley Golf Club is looking for a PGA qualified Golf Operations Manager Headingley Golf Club, founded in 1892, is a thriving private club based in north Leeds which prides itself on being a welcoming club with an active social scene. Our all year-round course is a challenge to golfers of all levels, and we provide indoor and outdoor practice facilities for members to use.

The club continues to undertake on course ‘future proofing’ projects to ensure we meet the challenges of 21st century golf that both our members and visitors will enjoy.

You must have previous relevant experience and be a self-motivated, high achiever with a demonstrable track record incorporating excellent interpersonal, communication and organisational skills with a strong focus on customer service.

The club is looking for an individual who has a desire for personal development. The successful candidate will be expected to develop knowledge and skills (working alongside the existing club manager) which will enable them to take on broader club management duties over time in addition to their golf operations responsibilities.

The role’s key responsibilities will be: • Member of leadership team, working alongside the club manager, head greenkeeper, club steward and committee.

• Working with the marketing committee to devise and implement strategies focussing on income generation from member recruitment and visitor green fees.

• Leading and owning the management of corporate, society and open golf days, targeting additional and repeat bookings.

• Developing and managing a golf operations team to include a PGA coach and assistant professional(s).

• Establishing and operating a first-class golf retail facility, including custom club fitting, club repair and buggy/trolley hire services.

• Acting as an ambassador for the club at all times.

• Taking personal responsibility for ensuring all staff deliver excellent service to members and visitors at all times.

• Developing and growing all aspects of the club’s junior section including a junior outreach programme covering the local area.

Bigbury Golf Club seeks an Assistant Professional This is an exciting opportunity to become a valued member of a forward-thinking team, led by Tracy Loveys, Chair of the WPGA. Bigbury G.C, shortly to celebrate its centenary, is proud to have achieved Club and England Golf Mark status as well as winning the TMP Business Award for the South West Region in 2018. You will be empowered to take an active role in maintaining the culture of excellence by supporting the high-quality retail operation whilst developing a first class tuition business.

Working closely with the management team you will be expected to support in: • Developing the membership, visitor and society experience • Run club competitions • Promote ‘golf’ initiatives such as Golf Access • Develop strong member sections • Provide retail, coaching and member engagement Are you a solution provider? Can you cultivate an environment that suits the traditions appropriate to our friendly members club? Can you stimulate progression and lateral thought to adapt to the challenges of the modern game?

Send CV and covering letter to Jason Pheasant, General Manager at general.manager@bigburygolfclub.co.uk by 20th March 2020.

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Please forward your C.V. by e-mail to manager@headingleygolfclub.co.uk and/or contact the club on 0113 267 9573 (option 1) and ask to speak to the club manager, Jon Hall, for a confidential discussion.

Closing Date for Applications 31st March 2020

Assistant Golf Professional Redbourn Golf Club is part of Burhill Golf & Leisure (BGL), one of the largest owners and operators of golf facilities in the UK and privately owned by the Guinness Family.

Our facilities include 27 holes of golf and a 26 bay floodlit driving range that in Spring 2020 will become England’s first 26 bay Trackman Range.

We are seeking a motivated and ambitious professional to join one of Hertfordshire’s busiest venues. This diverse and flexible role will incorporate custom fitting, teaching, retail, and to be part of a team that delivers exceptional service levels to members and visitors to the club.

The company provides comprehensive training and development, staff benefits, and with over 1,000 employees there are excellent opportunities for future progression within the BGL Group.

This position also has the option of onsite staff accommodation.

Please send covering letter and CV to: rgcadmin@bglcompany.co.uk

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EMPLOYMENT O P P O R T U N I T I E S GENERAL MANAGER CORK GOLF CLUB

Cork Golf Club is a private members' golf club, with a proud history of upholding the best traditions of amateur golf and providing a rewarding golf experience for members and visitors.

With the planned retirement of our General Manager, we are seeking a replacement with a thorough understanding of best in class hospitality and the ability to provide leadership in the development of all aspects of the club. The club has 900 members and a direct staff of 15. The ideal candidate will have at least five years’ experience at this level. The successful candidate will be responsible for sustaining an environment which consistently exceeds members’ and visitors’ expectations.

The role will report to the Chairman.

All candidates should send C.V. and cover letter to: chairman@corkgolfclub.ie Closing date for entries: 13th March 2020

Dainton Park is a modern, lively golf club in the heart of South Devon. The club is proprietary owned, with a vision to reach out to everyone and provide exceptional customer service.

Facilities include 18-holes of classic parkland golf, a 10-bay floodlit driving range, private teaching studio with Trackman launch monitor, short game practise area and a 52sqm pro shop.

We have approximately 600 golf members, 200 gym members and 15,000 visitor rounds per year.

We require a fully qualified PGA Golf Professional to join our established team. Our focus is on growing the game, so this is primarily a teaching role with fantastic earning potential and opportunities to develop an individual client base. You will be expected to carry out the following types of tuition: You will be expected to carry out the following types of tuition:

• Individual lessons • On-course lessons • Group lessons • Junior coaching • Community outreach work and free taster sessions You will also be expected to cover limited shop hours and custom fitting appointments.

If you think this role is for you, please send your CV and a covering letter to the Golf Operations Manager via email before Friday, April 3.

Golf@daintonparkgolf.co.uk

Beau Desert Golf Club “The Beautiful Wilderness” As one of England’s finest heathland golf courses, we are seeking to appoint a Club Professional to join a committed, ambitious management team.

They will make a leading contribution towards the further advancement of the current Five-Year Business Plan, developing all aspects of the club, in line with customer expectations at a “Top 100” UK & Ireland golf course.

The successful individual will have an exceptional commercial opportunity to offer golf professional services to our members, guests and visitors, in pursuit of excellence for all. He or she will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of a members’ golf club, the golf industry and all related services at a premier golf destination of choice.

Contractually, the Club is willing to consider a service contract or employment contract and therefore welcomes any committed applicant who feels they have the expertise to develop all areas, inclusive of golf operations, commerciality, but most importantly a high-quality service orientated role. This requires a strong work ethic, outstanding professional expertise and well-developed interpersonal skills.

A CV together with a letter of application is to be sent to Tim Gilpin, General Manager at generalmanager@bdgc.co.uk or alternatively by post, at the address set out below.* Further information will be forwarded to those candidates shortlisted for this exciting professional opportunity.

*For the attention of Tim Gilpin, General Manager, Beau Desert G.C, Hazelslade, Cannock, Staffordshire, WS12 0PJ Telephone: 01543 422626 56

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EMPLOYMENT O P P O R T U N I T I E S

Training Applicant / Registered Assistant This is a great opportunity to work at a busy private members club that is ranked in the top 50 courses in Britain and regularly hosts major events. The applicant must be, enthusiastic, positive, friendly and outgoing, an effective team member, have an interest in merchandising and enjoy providing an excellent level of customer service to members and numerous visiting parties.

You will gain experience in the running of a successful, busy pro shop and time will be available to play and practice at our excellent facilities.

C.V. and cover letter to: john.green@foremostgolf.com

eGolf Megastore, United Arab Emirates PGA Professional & Custom Fit Specialist eGolf Megastore is the UAE’s largest golf retailer and Middle East distributor of TaylorMade, HONMA, PXG, Cobra, Srixon, Cleveland & Puma.

We’re seeking an enthusiastic, driven individual for the position of PGA Professional / Custom Fit Specialist. You will need to maintain customer service standards, generate sales, custom fit, manage inventory and attend fitting days. Package includes competitive taxfree salary, target based commissions and other benefits including medical and annual return flight home.

Applicants should send their CV and covering letter to: careers@egolfoutlet.ae and can visit www.egolfmegastore.ae/careeropportunities for more info.

Applications close: 24/3/2020

Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club is seeking a PGA Teaching Professional with a passion for coaching.

The position would require; • Delivery of tuition to all ages and abilities • Sufficient retail/golf events understanding • Superior customer service experience The successful candidate will need to demonstrate: • The ability to drive tuition to existing membership, • Attract external business • Integrate with the current team ethos • Have the necessary experience required to develop and provide coaching programmes.

To apply for this position please forward a CV and covering letter to Karina Glennie, Director of Human Resources at Karina.Glennie@dalmahoyhotelandcountryclub.co.uk Deadline for applications is 14th April 2020

WANTED!!!! Assistant Site Manager Moreton Hills Golf Centre requires a proactive, experienced PGA Professional to fulfil this diverse role as assistant site manager.

The #1 family golf practise facility on the Wirral is a busy golf centre, which has recently benefited from significant investment.

Role Includes: • Deliver world class customer service • Execute our retail plan • Support the site manager with day to day responsibilities.

• Provide PGA Professional golf coaching.

• Deliver club fitting using Trackman & fitting kits.

• Competitive salary package (Basic + Commission + Bonus Scheme + Coaching) with annual earning potential of £30k+ What our facility offers: • 50 bay floodlit driving range powered by Top Tracer • Short Game Zone • Putting green • 5 million balls hit annually on the range • Two private glassed teaching bays featuring Trackman • Outdoor grassed bays • 18 Hole Viking Adventure Golf Course The successful candidate must: • Have experience in managing a team of staff.

• A passion for retail with a minimum of 3 year’s experience.

• Be competent using Microsoft Word, Excel etc…

• Be able to work on a shift pattern which includes weekend work and evenings.

For further Information visit: www.moretonhillsgolfcentre.co.uk Moreton Hills Golf Centre, Wirral CH46 4TP. Please send your CV by email to simoncorp@majorgolfdirect.com

Supporting the relationship between PGA Professionals and the golf industry

The PGA offers a free, bespoke service designed to assist you through the recruitment process to ensure you get the right PGA Professional for your facility. The PGA has helped more than 150 golf clubs with their recruitment needs in the past two years by: • Identifying roles and responsibilities • Assisting with writing the initial advertisement • Advice on interviewing • Guidance around remuneration • Developing service level agreements / contracts • Mediation and ongoing support For more information contact Jessica Harrison on 01675 470 333 or at: recruitment@pga.org.uk

CLASSIFIED Millicent Golf Club Excellent opportunity for a PGA Assistant/ Trainee to join a team at Millicent Golf Club.

We are Recruiting for an individual who is motivated, reliable and has attention to detail.

Role includes working all Golf Operations and Retail with a flexible shift system used to allow teaching / playing time.

For the right person a role in coaching in our Junior Development Program is available, and the job offers group lessons and individual lessons for all ages.

Apply with covering letter and CV to Info@ciaranhegartygolf.com By March 21st

The PGA Professional

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#makinggolfhappen

NUMBER PLATE FOR SALE

A4 PGA

On retention ready to put on your car

£950

All offers will be considered Contact: markhowellprofessional@btinternet.com Or Call Mark Howell on 07710693721

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M E M BE R I N T H E SP OT L IGH T

CAREERING AHEAD PGA Professional Adam Keable, a director at global golf recruitment company Colt Mackenzie McNair, explains how he found his dream job helping others find theirs

MY CAREER PATHWAY… After graduating from Birmingham University with a degree in Applied Golf Management in 2009 – during which time I also gained my PGA qualification – I continued my education by taking a Masters in Marketing at Royal Holloway, University of London, which opened my eyes up to the wider employment opportunities within the golf industry.

At the same time, I started working as a PGA Professional at Burhill Golf Club in Surrey, where I was involved in tuition, retail, golf operations and events. During my time at Burhill I launched a digital start-up business called Cadin, which was an online platform for linking coaches and golfers.

After a couple of years trying to move the business forward, it was wasn’t really developing as I’d planned, so at the start of 2014 I was looking for a new challenge. Through an industry contact, I heard that Colt Mackenzie McNair, a well-established golf recruitment agency, was looking to take on new people, and I’ve now been with them for five years.

MY CURRENT ROLE… I work with a diverse range of large and small golf organisations and companies from all over the world. Due to the nature of the industry, we don’t always know from where and when business is going to come in, which keeps things interesting. Over the last three years I have seen a shift in the industry, and employers are taking their recruitment strategy much more seriously, and we are working closely with a number of clients who outsource their recruitment to us. Another key part of my role is to discover and engage with talent. This is part of the role I really enjoy, as it always surprises me how many good people there are in the industry who just lack visibility. It is also important for me to keep up to date with what’s happening on the ground, whether that’s in the UK or developing golf regions all over the world, so I try to top up my knowledge as much as possible.

CAREER INFLUENCES… I’ve been lucky, whether it be through education, business or personal life, to have been around some great people. In the golf industry as a whole, I find people are very welcoming and are happy to offer advice and help. For me, Eddie Bullock has been a fantastic mentor, and his support has been hugely beneficial. Richard Wood, the founder of Colt Mackenzie McNair, has also been a huge influence, as he has given me the platform to develop, innovate, succeed and, on the odd occasion, fail. In my experience, I stand by the advice that you should choose the boss, not the job!

BEST ADVICE I WAS GIVEN… It’s hard to pin down just one, but the piece of advice that stands out is to be confident, but humble. Confidence with humility is essential and, from my experience, confidence – or rather a lack of it – is usually the reason that stops people from taking a step up and moving forward. Just like with golf, the battle is won between the ears, but also long as you remain humble, confidence can be a very powerful tool.

BEST ADVICE I WOULD GIVE… Build your network before you need it. It still amazes me how many people I cross paths with whom I met a few years earlier. Developing a relationship from scratch when you need one is extremely difficult, so always play the long game with relationships.

WHAT I WISH I’D KNOWN... Two things. Try to leverage every experience to widen your knowledge. Looking back, I have been in professional and personal situations where I have just gone through the motions. I now see many of those situations as missed opportunities. I’m now very conscious to always try and learn something from every conversation or experience. It’s a great way to expand your knowledge by just viewing the situation differently.

The second is that if you’re going to fail, then fail fast. It challenges logic, as failure is often perceived as a negative thing; however, looking back at ideas or ventures, I have sometimes procrastinated and over-analysed. Failing fast gets you in a mindset to test ideas and move forwards, which is what you need to do when looking to set up a new venture. ●

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March 2020

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The Perfect Match

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