The PGA Professional magazine - March 2021

THE OFFICIAL PGA MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE

PROFESSIONAL VOLUME 17 ISSUE 2

MARCH 2021

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THE OFFICIAL PGA MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE

PROFESSIONAL

GOLF VOLUME 17 ISSUE 2

IS BACK STRIKING THE BALANCE

Coping with tee time demand

TO THE RESCUE

New hybrid clubs reviewed

RETAIL RESTART Are you ready?

MARCH 2021

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2.5

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PRO

JACKET

TA K E N O C OV E R Introducing the SensorDry ® Series, a range of performance waterproof suits engineered for protection in the harshest of conditions. Each style is designed with specific features for all golfers and climates, so that there’s no need to take cover.

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CONTENTS FEATURES

INTERNATIONAL

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24

MEMBERS V VISITORS The Great Rebalancing Act

INTERNATIONAL MANAGEMENT Managing a golf facility overseas

TRAVEL

49 46 47

Q&A WITH THE PROS

VISITORS MEMBERS

Andy Fletcher

BREAKING DEALS Get a UK break in the diary for you and your members

WHERE TO TRAVEL IN MARCH 2022

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EASY DONE How to specialise in one of the new PGA Member categories

Kick-start your members’ season by taking them away on a coaching break

COACHING

INSIDE THE PGA

07 08 14 18

THE OFFICIAL PGA MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE

PROFESSIONAL Editor: Jane Carter jane.carter@golfconsulting.co.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: Crossover Technologies, Gareth Jones, Golfbreaks.com, Me and My Golf Photographers: Getty Images, Adobe Stock Production Assistant: Kelly Lewis

ROBERT MAXFIELD

Design: Andrew Beavis andy@whiteshadowmedia.co.uk

This month from The PGA’s Chief Executive

PGA NEWS

PGA National Headquarters Centenary House The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B76 9PT Tel: 01675 470 333

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

COVID 19 The key dates and rules around reopening

This magazine contains images taken prior to Covid-19

BE SAFE How to attain Safe Golf accreditation

PGA RETAIL

32 34 36 39 40 43 47 66

LAUNCHPAD This month’s guide to the latest gear

TRADE TALK Q&A with Lionel Caron of Srixon

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TRAITS OF THE GREATS

TRADE NEWS Latest industry news

MEMBERS RETAIL Q&A Stuart Wilson, Head PGA Professional at Duddingston Golf Club

TO THE RESCUE New hybrid models reviewed

MARKETING

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GET TO KNOW YOUR NEW MEMBERS

MEMBERSHIP

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YOUR BENEFITS

SUITS YOU Check out what the key apparel brands have in store for AW 21

STOCK CONTROL Get your pre-orders sorted to avoid stock shortages

MEMBERS SPOTLIGHT Craig Miller, elite coaching in Germany

The PGA Professional

What can we learn from the current greats that may help our coaching or even our game?

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

RECRUITMENT

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#makinggolfhappen

SITUATIONS VACANT

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 2021 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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PGA Principal Partners

Making the Business of Golf Happen PGA Partners

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

#makinggolfhappen

FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Thoughts of coming out of lockdown feel very different this time around. There is real confidence that the end is in sight and that this will be the final time. Both for our mental well-being and our businesses, let’s hope so.

The mood throughout the industry is buoyant. There is a real optimism that golf will enjoy a period of growth again as courses reopen for play, the spring weather arrives and finally we can see a golf season stretching out in front of us. For the industry it also feels a busy time. I will be addressing key decision makers and golf course owners at the Golf Bic conference. Our own PGA Live schedule comes around each week covering all sorts of topics affecting the modern-day PGA Professional and attracting a real following from Members. We are looking ahead to the busy schedule of PGA Tournaments, planning for the Ryder Cup, and beginning to see familiar events and meetings appears in our diaries.

level of the organisation we are focussed on promoting the PGA Professional as integral to the business of golf and the running of golf clubs.

We believe that the new categories of PGA Coach and PGA Manager offer a real opportunity to promote your specialisation to employers, and as you will read from Members in this issue, many hundreds of you are now embarking on this path.

Coaching is integral to the growth of the game and increasing participation.

The network of coaches in golf is the envy of many other sporting organisations and enhancing your status as the true professionals in this area will be a priority over the coming months.

“Build Back Better” is the Government slogan for life after COVID-19 and it echoes my own sentiments. The test of the coming months is whether as an industry, we are ready to move forward with badly needed

Build Back Better’ echoes my own sentiments….. The test is whether as an industry we are ready to move forward with change or revert back to all as it was before As an Association we will be closely watching Government advice for the return of businesses and a reopening of our offices at The Belfry. The staff have adapted to working remotely but getting out and speaking to Members is high on the list of our priorities. We have made thousands of telephone calls, but a face-to-face meetings offer so much more. They may take more time and effort but as we strive to be the best possible Members’ Association, that personal contact is vital to us keeping in touch and understanding the challenges and opportunities in your day to day working lives.

The real impact of COVID-19 remains to be seen. On the face of it, golf has come through it relatively intact, but I know that many PGA Members are still feeling the effects and will do for some time. There is no doubt that golf clubs- your employershave seen a real shift in thinking. At every

change, or whether we revert back to all as it was before COVID-19. The future is not a gift. It is hard earned and relies on us willing to seize the opportunities and take responsibility for our roles. We may not always agree with the direction a golf club or business is taking but a willingness to adapt is vital.

The next few months will provide the opportunity to showcase the importance of your roles once again. It will be busy and please do take care of your own health and well-being. But also use the opportunity to demonstrate the skills, knowledge and understanding of the game that is synonymous with the PGA brand.

We will continue to communicate Government advice and share best practice as we move closer to March 29. Our teams are ready to support you. These are positive times and I wish you, and your families the very best over the coming season.

Robert Maxfield CHIEF EXECUTIVE The PGA Professional

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#makinggolfhappen

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NEWS Modry Las debuts in Golf World’s Top 100 Resorts Modry Las Golf Resort has received recognition from one of Europe’s foremost golf publications, teeing up what is anticipated to be an upbeat 2021.

As well as receiving its PGA National status and revealing a new clubhouse, the 27-hole facility has been named in Golf World’s latest rundown of top resorts in continental Europe, alongside some of the world’s top golf destinations.

The inaugural listing included a glowing review that described the Gary Player designed-course as ‘fabulous’ and ‘elegant’. The analysis suggested Modry Las would appeal to golfers looking for ‘a high-calibre modern course in fabulous condition’.

Arthur Gromadzki, Chairman of Modry Las, commented: “Our inclusion in Golf World’s Top 100 Resorts of Continental Europe and the appreciation for the great value we provide validates our endeavours which have already led to our PGA National status and recognition from the golf industry at the highest level.”

Golf Foundation welcomes Maxfield aboard PGA Chief Executive, Robert Maxfield, has joined The Golf Foundation’s Board of Trustees.

Maxfield, who played golf for England as a schoolboy, brings years of golf and business experience to the charity’s board.

The Golf Foundation is completing a new fiveyear growth strategy and Maxfield has already been able to lend his expertise in these current discussions.

“It’s a genuine privilege for me to be invited to join the Board of the Golf Foundation at this progressive time,” said Maxfield.

“PGA Members are committed to reaching out to young people from all backgrounds: encouraging more children to enjoy all the benefits of golf, while ensuring they can reach their full potential in the game.

“It’s exciting to see that PGA Professionals will remain at the heart of this

Robert Maxfield shakes hands with Ali Jodiyawalla from the Golf Foundation’s Young Ambassadors programme

charity’s work ahead and I look forward to supporting my new colleagues on the Board of Trustees.”

The Golf Foundation was founded by three-time Open Champion and PGA Professional Sir Henry Cotton and friends in 1952. Today, PGA Professionals are at the heart of its successful and inclusive initiatives for young people in schools, communities and golf clubs, programmes that encourage youngsters to learn and thrive through their experiences in the game.

Stephen Lewis, Chairman of The Golf Foundation,

added: “Robert is passionate about the need to inspire the next generation of young players. Due to his considerable golfing pedigree and business acumen he is ideally placed to help both the Golf Foundation and The PGA to offer a healthy, dynamic and more inclusive game to many more young people now and in the future. We are delighted he has agreed to join us.”

Robert Maxfield joins a Board rich in commercial experience and a commitment to growing the game.

PGA Members aid vaccination programme Two PGA pros are playing key roles in the battle to combat COVID-19 by using lockdown downtime to work in the nationwide vaccination programme.

Harriet Matthews, a PGA coach at Paultons Golf Centre, Hampshire, is living with her parents during lockdown and administers vaccinations at a clinic in the West Midlands.

And Mark Boscott, the head PGA Professional at Tidworth Garrison Golf Club, Wiltshire, is a member of the admin support team at Swindon Covid Centre.

Matthews, a Golf Foundation award winner for coaching youngsters, is no stranger to the medical world insomuch that there are several nurses and doctors in her family.

“They told me the NHS was crying out for volunteers,” said the 26-year-old, “and a friend who works for the local practices got me involved.”

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Having undergone 23 hours of theory training and several more on the practical side, Matthews was equipped to help out with administration and vaccinate patients.

Reflecting on the first vaccination she administered, she recalled: “It was a nervy experience because it was way out of my comfort zone. But the more you do the easier it gets.

“It’s also very rewarding - I feel I’m doing my bit and I’m making a difference.”

Boscott became involved in the programme as the result of a friend’s influence.

“A friend is a GP practice manager and she asked me to sign up as a volunteer,” explained the 39-year-old.

“I work on the software that checks everyone in, make them feel at ease, then they get the jab and I tell them what to do after that.

“Skills I’ve learned from working in the pro shop have been very helpful. Knowing how to engage with people has helped ensure things runs smoothly. It’s almost like signing people in for the monthly medal!”

March 2021

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www.pga.info

NEWS

BRO SUPPORT Offering a helping hand In the latest column promoting the services of The PGA’s Business Relationship Officers, Justyn Branton reveals how he has been helping Members over the past 12 months.

Shiels tackling mental health YouTube star Rick Shiels walked 18 holes (four miles) each day in February carrying a full set of golf clubs to help raise awareness of mental health.

As part of the challenge, Shiels, who has amassed more than one million subscribers to his YouTube channel, also raised £40,000 for the mental health charity MIND. “With golf courses currently closed in England, Wales and Ireland, lots of golfers aren’t able to get out and enjoy their beloved sport,” said Shiels. "For many people golf is their whole social life, their escape from the stresses of work, home and the world we live in. It’s an opportunity for golfers to talk to others about life, relationships, finances, work, the future and the past.

“Without these regular interactions, many people are not having those conversations on a regular basis and, therefore, they will miss those casual and important chats, and many people struggling may experience mental health issues and depression.”

Shiels set up Zoom calls during his walks for people who are struggling, giving them an opportunity to discuss any issues they may be facing.

To find out more about the challenge search #Walk18 on Twitter and Instagram.

Alliss family 'overwhelmed' Jackie Alliss has described herself as being bowled over by the outpouring of love, respect and affection for Peter that has been conveyed in thousands of letters, messages and emails following his passing in December.

The communications have come from all parts of the world and such has been the volume that replying to each one individually would be a mammoth and ultimately impossible task. Many have come from PGA Members and Jackie and the family would like to express their gratitude to all those who have taken the trouble to offer their condolences and pay tribute.

She said: “Peter was a proud PGA Member and he would have been not so much touched as overwhelmed by the compliments paid him by so many of his fellow pros, and the Association itself.

“Reading such heartfelt and sincere tributes to Peter has been a great comfort to us at such a desperately sad time. Our gratitude knows no bounds.”

The PGA Professional

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#makinggolfhappen

I have spoken to almost 700 Members, either face-to-face or over the phone, ranging from head professionals or retail business owners, to coaches, managers and trainees. The conversations have been varied, but COVID19 has been the most discussed topic this year. These chats incorporate everything from discussion around furlough, funding pots for sole traders to limited companies, and discussions around the interpretation of the tiers or social distancing guidelines.

The BRO team have been heavily engaged in analysing the government guidance and directing Members and clubs to the appropriate resources. This means understanding the nature of their business and employment before directing them to the appropriate funding packages available.

Off the back of COVID-19, contracts have become the next most discussed topic. The pandemic has made people and businesses realise the importance of having the appropriate contracts in place or interpreting their rights under their current contracts.

The last 12 months has also highlighted the importance of understanding employment status as this is interlinked to the Governmental support that individuals and businesses can access. Further to this, during lockdown, Members who are on retained contracts have been reaching out for support more than ever, especially those professionals who have found that their retainers have been suspended or reduced during lockdown.

One other important issue has been the welfare of Members. Supporting and speaking to them has become increasingly common place over the last 12 months. We listen and discuss issues with Members. Were we can we guide them to support through other organisations and we are someone to talk to who is listening. That has been hugely important during this period, as it demonstrates that we as an organisation care about their welfare.

Your BRO team

Sam Carr

Fiona Champness

Paul Wisniewski

Justyn Branton

Please ring your regional helpline and you will be put in touch with a PGA Business Relationship Officer East Region Midlands Region North Region South Region West Region Ireland Scotland International`

01279 652 070 01675 624 755 01204 496 137 01483 224 200 07799 111 857 00353 4293 21193 07799 111 862 +44 (0) 7771 751 324

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NEWS Edwards becomes Golf Ambassador for Heritage Resorts

Captain-elect Bennett steps up fundraising drive PGA Captain-elect Sarah Bennett (above left) will take the total she has generated for research into a rare form of cancer to more than £20,000 when she leaves her comfort zone to run a half marathon this month.

Bennett promised to help medics beat cancer of the thymus gland (thymic carcinoma) after her friend Wendy Lodder (above right) succumbed to a condition that affects fewer than 10 people annually in the UK. Lodder, an England Golf under 18 east region volunteer manager, underwent two major operations, and received chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatment at Guy’s Hospital, London, after she was diagnosed with the disease in 2016. However, the 52-year-old passed away two years later, shortly after the first fundraising golf day at the Three Rivers Golf and Country Club in Chelmsford, Essex.

The event, organised by Bennett, a Fellow Professional who will succeed Bernard Gallacher as PGA Captain in 2022, raised £10,000.

She doubled that by holding a second fundraising golf day in 2019 and a third will take place at Colchester Golf Club in September.

Meanwhile, Bennett will take part in the virtual Colchester half marathon on March 21 and has already exceeded her target of £750.

Bennet, 52, said: “I am new to running so this is a mammoth challenge. But I am determined to achieve a task which is insignificant in comparison to the journey Wendy endured. I am determined to raise awareness of this rare and aggressive cancer and fund research which will help more people.”

Trick-shot specialist David Edwards and former European Tour player, David Edwards, has been appointed as a golf ambassador for Heritage Golf Club and its three 5-star properties in Mauritius.

Edwards is a popular figure in golf circles and is now running a successful Golf Trick Show, as well as providing on-course golf commentary at events.

His remit as a ‘Golf Ambassador’ is to develop alliances with golf clubs in the UK with Heritage Resorts, with a view to offering bespoke golf holidays and golf competitions in Mauritius to members.

Edwards commented: “I am delighted to be an ambassador and would have no hesitation in recommending the resort and its excellent golf course.

“As a PGA Professional, former European Tour player, and also having travelled to many destinations around the world with my Golf Trick Show, I soon realised that Heritage Golf Club and Heritage Resorts were something very special.”

PGA North flying high with Albatross Golf Events PGA North’s 2021 tournament programme has been given a £30,000-plus prize money boost thanks to a sponsorship deal with bucket-list golfing experience specialists Albatross Golf Events.

The deal with the company run by golfbreaks.com travel partners and PGA pros Andy Scrimshaw and Martyn Jobling includes sponsorship of the Order of Merit and the top three splitting an additional purse of £2,250.

In addition, a minimum of three new golf experience pro-ams with combined prize funds in excess of £30,000 will be added to the schedule.

PGA North regional manager, Jonathan Paine, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for both parties to create unique experiences for both our PGA Professionals and their amateur partners. Having spoken with both Andy and Martyn, their vision is in line with that of the region and PGA and I am delighted to have them on board for 2021 as Order of Merit sponsors.”

Simon Parker – a proud PGA Member with a passion for the game The PGA is saddened to report that Simon Parker, a Member for more than 40 years and from a family that boasts six golf professionals, has passed away at the age of 64.

Three more from that sextet are PGA Professionals, the trio comprising Simon’s elder brothers Chris and Tim, and his son Mathew.

What was to become a lifelong love affair with the game for Simon began when he caddied for his mother at Burton

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on Trent Golf Club. He followed up by completing his PGA training at Lilleshall in the early 1980s, learning how to whip clubs, polish persimmon clubheads and, like most assistants in those days, harbouring dreams of making it on tour.

In order to hone his skills and find the right opportunity, Simon worked at Rugby, Whittington Heath, and Oxley Park Golf Clubs in the Midlands and also with Tim at Verulam Golf Club, St Albans.

It was a time when golf in Germany was

booming and Tim followed Chris to work in the country and, with both his brothers fashioning successful careers as coaches, Simon followed suit and emulated them.

He began work at Golfclub HamburgWalddörfer before moving to nearby Golf-Park Peiner Hof, remaining there for the next 20 years passing on his knowledge and passion for the game to thousands.

As he did at Golf Club Gut Haseldorf, the club where he spent two years before his untimely passing last month.

March 2021

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www.pga.info

Daniel Field - PGA Professional East Herts Golf Club

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

NEWS ON THE MOVE The latest PGA Member appointments.

David Pimlet has ended a career spanning two decades at Doman Nederreutin Golf Club, Germany, to take up a teaching professional role at Solvesborg Golf Club in Sweden.

After 17 years as the head professional at Frankfurt Golf Range, John Fisher has opted for a move to Golfclub Seligenstadt.

Two other moves abroad see Michael Antona leave Kenilworth Golf Club to join the Fore Management Group as a club professional, while Rory Tinker has moved to the Royal Golf Club Bahrain as a teaching professional.

In the Midlands, Richard Strange leaves Norwood Park Golf Club to become Chevin Golf Club’s head teaching professional. Elsewhere, Connor Steels starts a new position as a teaching professional at Kedleston Park Golf Club and Richard Hampton joins American Golf Telford.

In the North region, Thomas Richardson is now a retail salesperson for Glenmuir, while in the South region, Paul Humphrey is a new PGA Professional at Birchwood Park Golf & Country Club and Leah Roelich joins the coaching team at Bletchingley Golf Club.

Nicky Lawrenson is the new Director of Golf at Bowood Hotel & Spa, while two other moves in the West see Oliver Hart become a club professional at Cradoc Golf Club and Martyn Thompson has left Parkstone Golf Club after 20 years to join Golfcatcher.

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Lysa Jones relishing UK Sport coaching opportunity Lysa Jones, the only female to coach at England national level, is relishing being a member of the 19-strong group of women identified by UK Sport as having the potential to coach at the 2024 Olympics and beyond.

The group’s creation marks the start of UK Sport’s leadership programme for women coaches that aims to more than double female representation in the Olympic and Paralympic high-performance community by Paris 2024.

The six-month long programme sees the participants assigned to one of eight coach leaders and Jones is alongside fencing’s Katie Arup in observing Claire Morrison, a performance coach at GB Boccia.

Jones is the sole representative from golf and commenting on her inclusion on the programme, she said: “I am incredibly proud

and humbled to be part of UK Sport’s female coaches leadership programme.

“The opportunity to observe and learn from coaches who have been party to winning Olympic medals such as hockey’s Karen Brown and diving’s Jane Figueiredo is both invaluable and inspirational.

“As an England Golf coach working with our next generation of elite golfers, I am passionate about addressing the current under-representation of female coaches in UK sport and so to be involved with this initiative is really important to me.

“I am one of only a few female golf coaches and so to inspire and empower other women to follow their coaching goals will be a wholly rewarding experience and one I’m relishing.”

Polmont pro to launch training facility Bobby Rushford's dream of opening his Fairways Indoor Golf Centre in Falkirk took another step closer to becoming a reality after he was granted planning permission for the new venue.

Concerns were raised about parking, but it was felt that with peak numbers expected to be 10, the bays would be sufficient along with on-street parking.

Rushford can now begin work to open the facility, which will be based at Abbotsford Business Park. It will house four driving range simulator bays, a teaching bay and there will also be a short game area as well as a pitching green.

The facility will also create three full-time and three part-time jobs.

“Our main goals are to offer a unique indoor facility which can be enjoyed by serious golfers, families and those new to the game," commented Rushford.

"We will also offer a custom fit service from leading manufacturers and there will also be another full-time PGA Professional on site for individual lessons and group coaching."

Cornish Festival falls victim to COVID-19 PGA West’s popular seasonal curtain-raiser, the Marstons Cornish Festival, has fallen foul of COVID-19 for the second year in succession and been cancelled due to the enforced closure of hotels.

The three-day festival was due to be staged at a trio of venues – Trevose (above), the Point at Polzeath, and Bude and North Cornwall – three weeks after March 29, the date given by the government for golf courses to reopen.

However, government restrictions regarding the opening of hotels and selfcatering accommodation will remain until May 17 at the earliest. And therein lay the problem for Festival organisers.

“Although play would have been possible,” explained Robert Moss, PGA West regional manager, “many of the 400-plus players travel a long distance to take part and need to stay overnight. As that won’t be possible, it is with a heavy heart we’ve have had to cancel the festival.

“It's a big disappointment for all concerned - the players and venues. We would like to thank them all for registering to play or agreeing to host the event, especially Bude and North Cornwall the late replacement following St Enodoc’s withdrawal."

Next year’s festival will run from April 20 – 22 but the venues have yet to be confirmed.

March 2021

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www.pga.info

NEWS ON THE MOVE

Represent your club in Europe’s largest pro-am

In the East region, David Hewitt has started a new chapter in his career as owner of Golf in Progress. He had previously spent five years as owner of Golf UnLtd.

Regional Final schedule

Entries are now open for PGA National Pro-Am Championship, which returns to the Association’s national tournament calendar after a two-year hiatus.

Re-launched as a mixed event, Europe’s largest pro-am now sees both male and female amateurs aged 18 or over compete for the title of National Pro-Am Champions.

Its 36-hole final will be staged at The PGA National Turkey in November and feature a dozen pairs who have qualified via one of 12 regional tournaments held in the UK or Ireland.

Dates and venues for each Regional Finals have been confirmed and each one will be contested by a maximum of 74 pairs comprising a PGA Professional and an amateur from his or her club.

PGA Professionals will be competing for a share of the £25,000 prize fund and there will be highly coveted prizes for amateurs at both Regional and Grand Final stages.

Entry packs have been sent to Members with full details on how to enter.

2 June Sherwood Forest Golf Club 7 June Foxhills Club & Resort (Longcross) 10 June Woodbury Park Hotel & Golf Club 23 June Seapoint Golf Links 28 June S tockport Golf Club 30 June Thetford Golf Club 5 July Orsett Golf Club 7 July Cumberwell Park Golf Club 8 July Harrogate Golf Club 12 July Montrose Golf Links 13 July West Surrey Golf Club 14 July Enville Golf Club (Highgate)

SkyCaddie going the extra mile for pros Long-standing PGA Partner SkyCaddie will revisit all of the courses hosting a national championship this year to ensure the most accurate information is available for users of their devices.

In addition, each day’s pin positions will be uploaded by tournament staff onto the SkyCaddie platform for users to download.

Meanwhile, The PGA of America recently announced that the use of SkyCaddie and other brands of Distance Measuring Devices (DMDs) will be permitted in its 2021 major championships in a bid to improve pace of play.

Prior to the new Rules in 2019, DMDs were only allowed by way of local rule. However, the R&A and USGA reversed this in the new Rules, with DMD’s now allowed under Rule 4.3, in acknowledgment that they were now widely used at most amateurs’ events and club level

The PGA Professional

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golf worldwide. It also avoids confusion when clubs or players did not realise DMD use required a local rule to be adopted previously. The option to ban DMDs is now by a local rule.

In contrast to The PGA of America, DMDs have been permitted in PGA of Great Britain and Ireland tournaments for more than a decade.

During this time, their usage has doubled with around 95 per cent of players now using one.

Although DMDs have had no discernible effect on improving pace of play, there have been numerous benefits to our players who ordinarily do not have the same resources at their disposal as their Tour counterparts, such as bespoke tournament yardage books or caddies. Allowing DMDs has provided our players access to a lot of the information that would otherwise have been gathered from the above sources in helping decide shot selection and strategy.

#makinggolfhappen

Andrew Clapp leaves Bickendon Golf Club after 12-and-a-half years to join the sales and marketing team at Mid Herts Golf Club,

Andrew Clapp

while Sam Beckett has been announced as the new head professional at Girton Golf Club.

Experienced PGA Professional, Clarke Lutton, has been appointed Head of Golf at Murrayshall Country House Hotel and Golf Club in Scotland.

Aberdeenshire-born Lutton, who is a former tour professional, joins Murrayshall from Gleneagles, where he held the position of PGA Professional from 2018.

Lutton commented: “I aim to use this knowledge to help the overall look and playability of Murrayshall’s golf course.”

If you would like to feature in this column send your details to membership@pga. org.uk.

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NEWS Following the recent announcements from the UK Government and the Devolved Administrations, The PGA has been working with a range of industry bodies to establish clarity around the implications for Members in the UK and Ireland.

COVID-19: A roadmap for the return of golf in England TYPE OF ACTIVITY

STEP ONE MON 8 MAR

STEP ONE MON 29 MAR

The Prime Minister has confirmed that golf will be included in the first wave of sports able to return once the national legal requirements to stay at home end on 29th March.

STEP TWO MON 12 APR

STEP THREE MON 17 MAY

• No golf permitted.

• Fourballs.

• Fourballs.

• Fourballs.

• All professional and retail shops must remain closed.

• Click and collect service.

• All professional and retail shops must remain closed.

• Click and collect service.

• All professional and retail shops may open.

• All professional and retail shops may open.

• All catering facilities must be closed.

• Takeaway service may be provided.

• All catering facilities must be closed.

• Takeaway service may be provided.

• All indoor catering facilities must be closed.

• Outdoor catering facilities may open, subject to the Rule of 6.

• Takeaway service may be provided.

• Indoor catering facilities may open, subject to the Rule of 6.

• Outdoor catering facilities may open, subject to a maximum of 30 people.

• Takeaway service may be provided.

• Not permitted.

• Permitted provided they are outdoor.*

• All driving ranges open.

• All driving ranges open.

• No coaching is permitted, with exceptions for disability sport.

• Outdoor coaching is permitted on a 1-to-1 basis.

• Group coaching is permitted to the Rule of 6 (group of 6 including the coaches/ volunteers).

• Outdoor coaching is permitted on a 1-to-1 basis.

• Group coaching is permitted to the Rule of 6 (group of 6 including the coaches/ volunteers).

• Outdoor coaching is permitted on a 1-to-1 basis.

• Group coaching is permitted to a maximum group size of 30.

Playing Golf

Retail Shops

Catering

Driving Ranges

Outdoor Coaching

Indoor Coaching

Indoor Swing Studios

• Indoor coaching is not permitted.

• Indoor coaching is not permitted.

• Indoor coaching is permitted on a 1-to-1 basis.

• Indoor coaching is permitted on a 1-to-1 basis.

• Indoor group coaching is permitted to the Rule of 6 (group of 6 including the coaches/volunteers).

• Indoor swing studios must remain closed.

• Indoor swing studios must remain closed.

• Indoor swing studios may open for individual use.

• Indoor swing studios may open for individual use.

• Indoor swing studios may open for organised group activity.

• No fitting is permitted.

• Outdoor fitting is permitted on a 1-to-1 basis or to the Rule of 6 (including fitter).

• Outdoor fitting is permitted on a 1-to-1 basis or to the Rule of 6 (including fitter).

• All fitting is permitted outside.

• Indoor fitting is not permitted.

• Indoor fitting is permitted on a 1-to-1 basis.

• Indoor fitting is permitted on a 1-to-1 basis.

• Indoor fitting is permitted as part of an organised group Fitting Inside activity.

• Under strict COVID-19 controls and where overnight accommodation is not required for staff or players.

• Club/regional/county tournaments/competitions permitted.

• No national finals.

• No overseas.

• Under strict COVID-19 controls and where overnight accommodation is not required for staff or players.

• Club/regional/county tournaments/competitions permitted.

• No national finals.

• No overseas.

• Under strict COVID-19 controls.

• Club/regional/county/ national tournaments/ competitions permitted.

• No overseas.

• Changing rooms are not • Permitted to open.

• • • •

• Changing rooms are • Permitted to open.

• Changing rooms are permitted to open.

• Not permitted.

• Not permitted.

• Not permitted.

• Permitted, providing they are COVID safe.

Fitting Outside

Fitting Inside

• No fitting is permitted.

Tournament and • Not permitted.

Competition Golf

Changing Rooms

AGMs/ Committee Meetings

Changing rooms are not Permitted to open, although Use of indoor toilets is Permitted.

*Some golf ranges can class as indoor settings. Each range should interpret the guidelines based on their individual circumstances. If in doubt, contact your local authority.

14

March 2021

|

www.pga.info

NEWS COVID-19 Restrictions in Republic of Ireland Level-by-level golf activity TYPE OF ACTIVITY

COVID-19 Restrictions LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 in Republic of Ireland LEVEL 3 COVID-19 Restrictions COVID-19 in RepublicRestrictions of Ireland COVID-19 Restrictions COVID-19 Restrictions in Republic of Ireland in Republic of Ireland in Republic of Ireland COVID-19 Restrictions in Republic of Ireland COVID-19 Restrictions in Republic of Ireland

The Irish Government has confirmed current Level 5 COVID-19 restrictions will remain in place in the Republic of Ireland until 5th April, 2021.

LEVEL 4

LEVEL 5

Level-by-level golf activity (Last updated on Thursday, January 28 2021)

• Golf courses may • Golf courses may • Golf courses may • Golf courses may LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4 LEVEL 5 open, subject to social open, subject to social open, subject to social open, subject to social distancing rules. distancing rules. distancing rules. distancing rules.

Level-by-level (Last may updated on Thursday, January 28 2021) • Golf courses may open, • Golf courses may open, • Golf courses open, • Golf courses may open,golf activity • Golf courses must be subject to social distancing subject to social subject to social distancing • Tee times booked subject to • social Tee distancing times booked • distancing Tee times booked • Tee times booked • Golf courses must be closed. rules. rules. rules. rules. closed. online or by phone.

For online or by phone.

For online or by phone.

For online or by phone.

For • Tee times booked online • Tee times • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online Level-by-level golf activity (Last updated on Thursday, January 28booked 2021) online • Elite athletes, which can • Elite athletes, which TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL LEVEL 28+ minutetimes, LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL 5 or by phone.

For48+ minute orplay by phone.

For38+ minute or by phone.

For or by8+ phone.

For18+ minute minute times, play 8+ minute 8+ minute times, play 8+ minute times, play be argued includes our Level-by-level activity (Last onto Thursday, times, January 28 2021) times, play is restricted to play is restricted to times, play is updated restricted times, play is restrictedgolf to can be argued includes Members, are technically Level-by-level golf activity (Last updated on Thursday, January 28 2021) is restricted to two is restricted to two is restricted to golfers two per start time; is restricted to two two two golfers per start time; two golfers per start time; two golfers per start time; allowed to train and our Members, are • Golf courses may • Golf courses may open, • Golf courses may • Golf courses may For 9+ minute times, up For 9+ minute times, up For 9+ minute times, up For 9+ minute times, up TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 open, LEVEL 2 open, LEVEL 3golfers LEVEL 4open, LEVEL 5 and On Course Activities play, both indoors golfers per start time; golfers per start time; per start time; golfers per start time; subject social For distancing subject social For distancing subject social For distancing social For distancing to threeto golfers; 10+ to threeto golfers; 10+ to threeto golfers; 10+ to threeto golfers; 10+ On Course Activities subject technically allowed • outdoors Golf courses must be TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL 5 rules. rules. rules. minutes, up to 44may play minutes,LEVEL up to 43may minutes,LEVEL upFor to 429+ mayminute play minutes, up to minute 4 1may playtimes,rules.

For 9+ times, Forplay 9+ minute times, For 9+ minute times, closed.

TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL 4open, LEVEL 5 •• Tee times booked online •• Tee times booked online • times booked online • times booked online to train and play, both per start time. per start time. per start time. per start time.

Golf courses may Golf courses may3 open, • Tee Golf courses may2 open, • Tee Golf courses may1 open, • Elite athletes, which can up to three golfers; up to three golfers; up to three golfers; up to three golfers; Level-by-level golf activity (Last updated on Thursday, or January 28 2021) or by phone.

For distancing 8+ minute by phone.

For distancing 8+ minute or by phone.

For distancing 8+ minute or by phone.

For distancing 8+ minute subject to social subject to social subject to social subject to social argued includes our indoors and outdoors • be Golf courses must be • Golf courses open, to • Golf courses open, to • Golf courses open, to • Golf courses open, to times, play ismay restricted times, play ismay restricted times, play ismay restricted times, play ismay restricted rules. rules. rules. rules.

For 10+ minutes, up to For 10+ minutes, up to For 10+ minutes, up to For 10+ minutes, up to Members, are technically closed.

Golf courses may open, subject to booked social distancing Golf courses may open, subject to booked social distancing • Tee Golf courses may open, subject to booked social distancing • Tee Golf courses may open, subject to booked social distancing two times golfers per start time; two times golfers per start time; two times golfers per start time; two times golfers per start time; •• Tee online •• Tee online • online • online •• allowed Golf must becan to train and Elite courses athletes, which subject to social distancing rules. subject to social distancing rules. subject to social distancing rules. subject to social distancing rules.

For 9+ minute times, up For 9+ minute times, up For 9+ minute times, up For 9+ minute times, up 4 may play per start 4 may play per start 4 may play per start 4 may play per start or by phone. For 8+ minute or by phone. For 8+ minute or by phone. For 8+ minute or by phone. For 8+ minute On Course Activities • be Golf courses must be closed. play, both indoors and argued includes rules.

• Tee times booked online rules.

• Tee times booked online rules.

• Tee times booked online rules.

• Tee times booked online to three golfers; For 10+to TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1For LEVEL 2For LEVEL 3For LEVEL 4 to three golfers; 10+to LEVEL 5 our to three golfers; 10+to to three golfers; 10+to times, play is restricted times, play is restricted times, play is restricted times, play is restricted Elite athletes, which can outdoors time. time. time. time. • closed.

Members, are technically • Tee Allby clubhouse facilites • Tee Allby clubhouse facilites • Tee times booked online or by phone.

For 8+ minute • Tee times booked online or by phone.

For 8+ minute times booked online or phone.

For 8+ minute times booked online or phone.

For 8+ minute minutes, up to 4 may play minutes, up to 4 may play minutes, up to 4start may play minutes, up to 4start may play golfers per start time; golfers per start time; two golfers per time; two golfers per time; • two Access should be • two Access should be • be Elite athletes, which can argued allowed to includes train andour Level-by-level golf activity (Last on Thursday, or January 28 2021) may open with may open with or 8+ minute times, play is For restricted by 8+ minute times, play is For restricted or phone.

For 8+ minute times, play is updated restricted or by phone.

8+ minute times, play is For restricted perby start time. per start time. perby start time. per start time.

For 9+phone. minute times, upto For 9+phone. minute times, upto For 9+ minute times, upto For 9+ minute times, upto TYPE OF ACTIVITY

• be Clubhouses must be confined to use of toilets confined to use of toilets argued includes our Members, technically play, both are indoors and protective measures in to protective measures in to times, play is restricted to two golfers per start time; times, play is restricted to two golfers per start time; times, play is restricted two golfers per start time; times, play is restricted two golfers per start time; • Golf courses may open, • Golf courses may open, • Golf courses may open, • Golf courses may open, to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ closed. and initial retrieval of golf and initial retrieval of golf Members, technically allowed train and outdoorstoare place, including social place, including social two golfers per time; For 9+ minute up two golfers per time; For 9+ minute up two golfers per time; For 9+ minute up two golfers per time; For 9+ minute up subject toup social distancing subject toup social distancing subject toup social distancing subject toup social distancing minutes, to times, 4start may play minutes, to times, 4start may play minutes, to times, 4start may play minutes, to times, 4start may play equipment from lockers. equipment from lockers. toindoors train and play, both and • allowed Golf courses must be distancing. distancing.

For 9+ minute up to golfers; For 10+ For 9+ minute up to golfers; For 10+ For 9+ minute up to golfers; For 10+ For 9+ minute up to three golfers; For 10+ rules. rules. rules. rules. perthree start time. times, perthree start time. times, perthree start time. times, per start time. times, play, both indoors and outdoors closed.

LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL 5 to three golfers; For 10+ minutes, up to 44 may play to three golfers; For 10+ minutes, up to 43 may play to three golfers; For 10+ minutes, up to 42 may play to three golfers; 10+ minutes, up to 4 1For may play • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online • outdoors Elite athletes, which can minutes, up to 4 may play perby start time. minutes, up to 4 mayminute play perby start time. minutes, up to 4 may play perby start time. minutes, up to 4 may play perby start time. or phone.

For 8+ minute or phone.

For or phone.

For 8+ minute or phone.

For 8+ minute be argued be includes our • 8+ Access should be • Access should • per All clubhouse facilites to • per All clubhouse facilites to start time. start time. start time. start time. times, play is restricted to times, play is restricted to times, play is restricted times, play is restricted • per Access should be • per Access should be • All clubhouse facilites • All clubhouse facilites Members, are technically may open with may open with courses may open, • Golf coursesper may confined open, • Golf courses may open, • Golf courses may open, two time; two golfers time; two golfers per start time; two golfers per start time; to• Golf usegolfers of to per confined to use of • allowed Clubhouses mustand be confined usestart of toilets confined to usestart of toilets to train protective measures in with subject protective measures in subject to social distancing to social distancing subject to social distancing subject to social distancing may open with may open For 9+ minute times, For minute times, For 9+ minute times, up For 9+ minute times, up closed. and initial retrieval ofup golf and 9+ initial retrieval ofup golf On Course Activities • Golf courses must be play, both indoors and toilets initial • including social including social rules. rules. rules. rules. to three golfers; For 10+toilets and to three golfers; For 10+ and initial to golfers; For 10+ to golfers; For 10+ • place, Allthree clubhouse facilites • place, Allthree clubhouse facilites equipment from equipment from closed. outdoors • Tee Access should belockers.

•• Tee Access should belockers.

Clubhouse Facilities – protective measures in protective measures in distancing. distancing.

• times booked online times booked online • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online minutes, up to 4 may play minutes, up to 4 may play minutes, upwith to 4 may play minutes, upwith to 4 may play may open may open ••• Driving ranges and retrieval of golf retrieval of athletes, golf Elite which Clubhouses must be can confined to use of toilets confined to use of toilets locker rooms and toilets • protective Facilities may open with • protective Facilities may open with Allby clubhouse facilites Allby clubhouse facilites or by phone. minute or by phone. minute or phone.

For 8+ including minute or phone.

For 8+ minute per start time.For per start time.For per start time. per start time. measures in measures in practice facilities must place, including social place, social • and Access should be8+ of • and Access should be8+ of be argued includes our closed. initial retrieval golf initial retrieval golf • Facilities mayrestricted open with measures, measures, • protective All clubhouse facilites • protective All clubhouse facilites may open with may open with times, restricted to to times, play is restricted times, play is restricted equipment equipment from place, including social to place, including social to • from Accessplay should be • times, Accessplay should • close.

Clubhouses must be confined tois use of toilets confined tois usebe of toilets Members, are technically equipment from lockers. equipment from lockers. protective measures, taking account of public taking account of public may open with may open with protective measures in protective measures in distancing. distancing.

Clubhouse Facilities – two golfers per time; two per time; two golfers per start time; two golfers per start time; distancing. distancing.

• closed.

No indoor outdoor Clubhouses must be confined usestart of toilets confined usestart of toilets and initialto retrieval of golf and golfers initialto retrieval of golf allowed to or train and lockers.

• For Facilities musttimes, be closed taking account oflockers. public health advice, including health advice, including protective measures in protective measures in place, social place, social locker roomsActivities and toilets 9+ minute For 9+ minute times, For 9+ including minute times, up For 9+ including minute times, up gatherings involving closed. and initial retrieval ofup golf and initial retrieval ofup golf equipment from lockers. equipment from lockers.

On Course play, both indoors and Clubhouse Facilities – health advice, including social distancing. social distancing. place, including social place, including social distancing. distancing. to three golfers; 10+ to three golfers; 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ Other Facilities – “individual training” equipment fromFor lockers. equipment fromFor lockers. outdoors Clubhouse Facilities – locker rooms and toilets social distancing.

• distancing.

Club fitting may takeplay • distancing.

Club fitting may takeplay minutes, up to 4 may play minutes, up to 4 may play minutes, up to 4 may minutes, up to 4 may driving ranges, swing except for professional locker rooms and toilets • place.

All clubhouse • place.

All clubhouse per start time. per start time. per start time. facilites per start time. facilites studios and club fitting • Driving ranges and and elite sports.

• Access should be • Access should be • may Facilities • may Facilities openmay withopen with openmay withopen with facilities • practice Clubhouses must must be confined to use of toilets use of toilets • confined Facilities to may open with protective protective protective measures, measures in protective measures, measures in close. closed. and initial retrieval of golf and initial retrieval of golf • Facilities may open taking • Facilities protective measures, account of public may open taking account of public place, including social place, including social No indoor or outdoor • from equipment from lockers.

•• Driving ranges and Clubhouse Facilities – • equipment Facilities must belockers. closed taking account of public advice, including advice, including distancing. distancing.

• health Facilities may open with • health Facilities may open with gatherings involving with protective with protective • Facilities may open practiceLEVEL facilities TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 with LEVEL 4 5 must advice, including social distancing. social distancing. locker rooms and toilets Other Facilities – • health Facilities may open protective measures, protective measures, • “individual Driving ranges and training” close.

Facilities may open with taking Facilities may open with social distancing.

• taking Club fitting may • taking Club fitting may All clubhouse facilites All clubhouse facilites measures, taking measures, with protective protective measures, account oftake public account oftake public driving ranges, swing •• practice Driving ranges and facilities must except for professional • Access should be •• Access should be with No indoor or outdoor • place.

Facilities may open with Facilities may open • place.

Facilities may open with protective measures, protective measures, may open with may open with • confined Facilities to must taking account of public health advice, including health advice, including studios and club fitting practice close. and elitefacilities sports.

• gatherings Clubhouses must must be usebe ofclosed toilets confined to use of toilets account public account measures, taking involving • health Facilities may open with protective measures, protective measures, protective measures, taking account of public taking account ofof public protective measures inof public protective measures in advice, including social distancing. social distancing.

• close.

No must indoor or outdoor Other Facilities – • golf Facilities be • closed. initialmust retrieval of and initial retrieval of golf “individual training” protective measures, taking account of public • and Facilities be closed taking account of public taking account of public health advice, including health advice, including place, including social place, including social social distancing.

• Club fitting may take • Club fitting may take health advice, health advice, account of public • No indoor or outdoor gatherings involving driving ranges, swing– from equipment from except for professional Clubhouse Facilities • equipment Facilities must belockers. closed taking account oflockers. public health advice, including health advice, including health advice, including social distancing. social distancing. distancing. distancing. closed Other Facilities – place. place. gatherings involving “individual training” studios and club fitting and elite sports. locker rooms and toilets health advice, including social distancing. social distancing. social distancing.

Club fitting may take • Non-contact outdoors • Non-contact outdoors Club fitting may take • Outdoor coaching may • Normal coaching sessions including social including social health advice, Otherranges, Facilities – driving swing training” except professional • “individual Coaching, whether Drivingfor ranges and TYPE and OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1takewith LEVEL 2take LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL 5 social distancing.

• take Club fitting • may Club fitting may place. coaching only in4pods of coaching only in3pods of place. place inmay pods ofwith up take place indoors Facilities may open Facilities may open driving ranges, studios clubswing fitting except for professional and elite sports. indoors or outdoors, is not practice facilities must distancing. distancing. including social place. place. up to 15. to 15. may open to 15. and outdoors with • up Facilities with protective measures, protective measures, studios and club fitting and elite sports. permitted.

This includes close.

• Individual indoors training • protective Individual training • taking Indoor account coaching take may protective measures. measures, ofmay public taking account of public • Club fitting may take • Club fitting take indoors distancing.

• coaching No indoorchildren. or outdoor only. account place pods of • only.

Facilities must be taking healthinadvice, including health advice, TYPECoaching OF ACTIVITY LEVELincluding 1 LEVEL 2up to six.

LEVEL of 3 public LEVEL 4 closed LEVEL 5 gatherings involving place. health advice, including social distancing. socialplace. distancing.

Other Facilities – “individual training” TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4 LEVEL 5 social distancing.

• Club fitting may2take • Club fitting may1take driving ranges, swing • except Drivingfor ranges and professional TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 sessions LEVEL 2 may LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4 LEVEL 5 • Non-contact outdoors • Non-contact outdoors • place.

Outdoor coaching • place.

Normal Facilities may open with Facilitiescoaching may open with studios and club fitting • practice Coaching, whether must and elitefacilities sports. coaching only in pods of only open in pods of take place in pods of up may take place indoors • coaching Facilities may with protective measures, protective measures, indoors close. or outdoors, is not up to 15. up to 15. measures, to 15. account of public and outdoors protective taking taking accountwith of public This includes • permitted.

No indoor or outdoor Individualmust indoors training Individual indoors training • health Indoor advice, coaching may take measures.

•• Facilities be closed account of public including health including Non-contact outdoors •• taking Non-contact outdoors • Outdoor coaching may • protective Normaladvice, coaching sessions gatherings involving • coaching Coaching,children. whether • Outdoor coaching may only. only. place in pods of upof toup six. health advice, including socialplace distancing. social distancing. coaching only in pods of coaching only • in Non-contact pods of take in pods may place indoors Other Facilities – Coaching “individual training” is not• • take Normal outdoors outdoors indoors or outdoors, • Non-contact outdoors • up Non-contact outdoors • to Outdoor coaching may • and Normal coaching sessions TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1coaching LEVEL LEVEL 3 4 • Non-contact LEVEL 5 social distancing.

Club may2take Club fitting may take to 15.LEVEL to 15.fitting outdoors with driving ranges, swing • up Essential retail and • permitted.

Coaching, take place in pods of15. except for whether professional This includes • All non-essential retail • Non-contact outdoors • Non-contact outdoors • Outdoor coaching may coaching only in pods of • may Normal coaching sessions coaching only in pods of take place in pods of up take place indoors place. place. may coaching only in pods coaching only in pods • businesses Individual indoors • Individual indoors training Indoor coachingmust maybe take measures. studios and club fitting that aretraining coverings • protective Face sessions coverings must be take • Face • indoors Coaching, whether or outdoors, is not and elite sports. coaching children. outlets must remain coaching only in pods of coaching only in pods of take place in pods of up up to 15. may take place indoors up to 15. to 15. and outdoors with upoftoup15. only. only. place and in pods to six. primarily outdoors only worn retailers may worn and retailers can indoors or outdoors, is not permitted.

This includes Coaching place indoors and • open oftraining up to 15.• can of up toclosed, 15. butchildren. they can All to retail may open. up to 15. indoors training 15. shops to 15. coaching may take Individual and outdoors with • up Individual indoors Indoor protective measures. remain open.

All with protective open with protective permitted.

This includes coaching • Indoor coaching may indoors training operate a ‘click and • only.

Individual indoors training • only.

Individual • place Indoorincoaching may take protective measures. pods of up to six.

Coaching other retail and personal measures in place. measures in place. coaching children. outdoors with • Individual indoors • Individual indoors delivery’ service. only. only. place in pods of up to six.

Professional/Retail Coaching Shops take place in pods of services are closed.

TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 sessions 2 may LEVEL 3training only.

LEVEL 4 • Non-contact outdoors • Non-contact outdoors • OutdoorLEVEL coaching • Normal coaching protective measures. training only.LEVEL 5 • Coaching, whether uppods to six. only in pods of coaching only in pods of take place in of up may take place indoors • coaching Essential retail and or outdoors, is not • indoors All non-essential retail up to 15. that are up to 15.

15.coverings must be with businesses • to Face • and Faceoutdoors coverings must be permitted.

This includes outlets must remain • primarily Individualoutdoors indoors training • Individual indoors training • worn Indoor coaching may take protective measures. only and retailers may worn and retailers can coaching children. closed, but they can • only.

All retail shops may open. only. place in pods of up to six.

Coaching remain open.

All open with protective open with protective • can Essential retail and • Restaurants and pubs a ‘click and • operate All non-essential retail •• measures Bars, cafesinand other retail that and are personal in place. place. businesses •• measures Face coverings must be Face coverings must be • outlets Pubs must beremain closed. as restaurants delivery’ service.

Non-contact outdoors • operating Non-contact outdoors Outdoor coaching may Normal coaching sessions must Professional/Retail Shops • restaurants, Cafes and restaurants, as well as •• services Essential retail and only are closed.

• Essential retail and retail Coaching, whether primarily outdoors and retailers may worn and place retailers can •• closed, Bars, cafes and openshops for indoor • worn Bars,place cafes and All non-essential coaching only in pods of coaching only inmay pods of take in pods of be up may take indoors but they can is not • may All retail open. including bars, should pubs, may open with • Essential retail and businesses that are • Face coverings must • wet Face coverings must be indoors or outdoors, can remain open. All businesses open with protective open with protective may offer dining with additional restaurants may open with • restaurants All non-essential retail outlets must remain up to 15. up to 15. to 15. and outdoors with • Face coverings must • Face coverings must that are • operate a ‘click and only offer takeaway or measures in businesses that • worn Face coverings must be • protective Face coverings must be primarily outdoors only and retailers may worn and retailers can permitted.

This includes other retail and are personal measures in place. measures in place. takeaway food and measures in outlets must remain closed, but they can All retail shops may open.

• delivery.

Individual indoors training • restrictions.

Individual indoors training • protective Indoor coaching may take protective measures. delivery’ service. place. primarily outdoors onlyprimarily worn and retailers may worn and retailers can retailers can remain open.

All open with protective open with protective Professional/Retail Shops coaching children. be worn and beofworn and retailers outdoors services are closed. delivery • only.

Wet pubsshops may offer place. closed, but theyand can All retail may open. operate aonly. ‘click only. place with in pods up to six.

• can Outdoor dining, orAll service • open Maximum numbers Coaching remain open. open protective within protective other retail and personal measures in place. measures place. are • All retail shops may • operate Accommodation is open delivery and takeaway • Individual groups are aservice. ‘click and delivery’ Professional/Retail Shops can open with only can remain open. only limited to apersonal maximum linked to the capacity other retail measures inmay place.open with• Restaurants and pubs measures in place. services areand closed. only for essential services only. Organised limited to 6 people from delivery’ service. nonopen.

Hospitality Shops • of Professional/Retail Bars, and 15 people with strict thecafes venue – taking services are closed.

• of Essential retail and •• social Pubs must be closed. operating as restaurants and and non-tourist outdoor gatherings of the same household. protective measures protective measures All other Allretail non-essential retail • physical Cafes and restaurants, well distancing. public healthasadvice into businesses that are Face coverings • restaurants, Face coverings mustas be • purposes.

Bars, cafes and may for indoor •• Bars, cafes and must be up toopen 15 people may take outlets must remain including bars, should wet may open with account. primarily outdoors onlypersonal worn and retailers maywith wornpubs, andplace. retailers can in in place. services restaurants mayare offer with additional restaurants may open place. closed, but they can All retail shops open.

• dining Restaurants andmay pubs only offer takeaway or protective measures in can remain open.

All open with protective open with protective • Bars, cafes and and restrictions. protective measures in operate a food ‘click and Pubs must be closed. operating as restaurants closed.• takeaway place. other and personal measures in place. measures in as place.

• delivery.

Cafes retail and restaurants, restaurants, well as • may Restaurants pubs only.

Wet pubs offer delivery’ service.

• delivery Bars, cafes and open may forand indoor • place.

Bars, cafes and Bars, cafesnumbers andopenare • including Outdoor are dining, or service Maximum Professional/Retail Shops • wet services closed. bars, should pubs, may with • restaurants Pubs must be closed.

• operating Restaurants and pubs asadditional restaurants Accommodation is open delivery and takeaway • restaurants Individual groups are with may offer dining with may open Cafeslimited andretail restaurants, • protective Bars, cafes and restaurants, as well asin only to aand maximum linked to the capacity •• only Essential offer takeaway or measures • Pubs must be closed.

Bars, cafes and operating as restaurants may open for indoor • Bars, cafes and only for essential nonservices only. Organised limited to 6measures people from • takeaway All non-essential retail food and restrictions. protective in Hospitality • delivery.

Cafes andbars, restaurants, including should restaurants, as well wet pubs, may open with of 15 people with strict of the venue – taking businesses that are Face coverings • place.

Face coverings mustas be • delivery Bars, cafes and restaurants may offer open for indoor •• place.

Bars, cafes and dining with additional restaurants maymust openbe with social and non-tourist outdoor gatherings the same household. outlets must remain only.

• may Wet pubs may offer of • People should stay at including bars, should only offer takeaway or wet pubs, may open with protective measures in physical distancing. public health advice into primarily outdoors only worn and retailers may worn and retailers can • Outdoor dining, or service • Maximum numbers are • may Restaurants and restaurants mayand offer takeaway food dining with additional may open restrictions. protective measures purposes. up 15 people may take closed, but they • delivery All to retail shops open.

• home, Accommodation is openfor and takeaway • restaurants Individual areinwith except forcan travel only offer takeaway delivery. protective measures in place. account. can remain open.

Allor open with groups protective open with protective • Bars, cafes and only limited to a maximum linked to the capacity • Golfers must not travel takeaway food and delivery only. restrictions. protective measures in • Wet pubs may offer place. place. operate a ‘click and onlyrestaurants, for essentialor nonOrganised to in 6 people from work, education other • • of There no • limited There are no restrictions • services There areonly. no restrictions delivery.

• of Outdoor dining, orstrict service place.

Maximum numbers are pubs operating as • ofCafes and Hospitality other retail and personal measures place. measures in place.

15 people with the are venue –restrictions taking outside their county delivery only.

• Accommodation is open Wet pubs may offer delivery and takeaway • place.

Individual groups are • Restaurants and pubs delivery’ social andservice. non-tourist outdoor gatherings thedomestic same• household. restaurants, as well• on Bars, essential purposes, or to domestic travel. travel.cafes and on domestic travel. of Professional/Retail Shops • on • physical Outdoor dining, service only limited to a or maximum Maximum numbers linked to the capacity Bars, cafes and services are distancing. public health adviceare into residence to closed. play golf. including Accommodation is open • only for essential nondelivery and Individual groups are services only.

Organised limited to 6 people from • take Pubs must be closed. operating as takeaway restaurants Travel restaurants may open bars, should Hospitality purposes. up to 15 people may take exercise within 5km to a maximum of 15 limited people with strict linked to theas of the venue –capacity taking • only Cafes and restaurants, restaurants, well as account. only for essential social and non-tourist services only.

Organised tohousehold.

6restaurants people from outdoor gatherings of the same as wet pubs, may • limited maymay • of Bars, cafes and nonopen for indoor Bars, cafes and Hospitality place. home. of 15 people with strictonly offer physical distancing. of the venue –advice taking public health into including bars, should wet pubs, may open with foroftake indoor dining with takeaway or social and non-tourist purposes. outdoor gatherings the same household. up to 15 people may restaurants may offer dining with additional restaurants may open with physical distancing. public health adviceprotective into account. only offer takeaway or protective measures in open with open with protective purposes. up to 15 people may take place. takeaway food and restrictions. protective measures in • People should stay at additional restrictions. delivery. account. delivery. place. delivery only. for travel for • place.

Wet pubs may offer place. measures measures in place. home, except Outdoormust dining, service • Maximum numbers in areplace.

•• Golfers notor travel • delivery Restaurants and • pubs Wet pubs may offer • Outdoor dining, or or • work, Accommodation is open Individual groups are education other • linked There are no restrictions •• There are no restrictions • There areand no takeaway restrictions Bars, cafes and only limited a maximum to the capacity • Maximum numbers • Individual groups outside theirto county of • only Pubsfor must be closed. operating as restaurants essential nonservices only.

Organised limited to 6 people from purposes, or to • on domestic travel. on domestic travel. on domestic travel.

• of Cafes and restaurants, restaurants, well as 15 people strictservice of the venueas – taking •• essential People should delivery and takeaway onlycafes limited USEFUL Hospitality LINKS: residence to with play golf.

Bars, andstay at may open for indoor • the Bars, cafes and social and non-tourist outdoor gatherings of same household.

Travel take exercise within 5kmfor including bars, should wet pubs, mayadvice opento with are linked the are limited to 6 physical distancing. public health into home, except for travel restaurants may offer dining with additional restaurants may open with purposes. up to 15 people may take • only Golfers must not travel services only. of 15 • work, People should stay at of home. offer takeaway or to a maximum measures in account. education or other • protective There are no restrictions • protective There are no restrictions • restrictions.

There are no restrictions www.gov.ie/en takeaway foodfor and measures in place. capacity of the venue people from the same outside their county of • People should stay at home, except travel delivery. place. essential purposes, or tofor on domestic travel. on domestic travel. domestic travel.

•outdoor Golfers must not travel Organised people with strict www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub delivery only.

•• on Wet pubs may offer place. residence to play golf. home, except for travel work, education or other • There are no restrictions • There are no restrictions There are no restrictions Travel Outdoormust dining, service • Maximum numbers are exercise within 5kmfor –are taking public health household.

•• outside Golfers notor travel their county of • take Accommodation is open delivery takeaway Individual groups are work, education or other • on There no travel. restrictions •• on There are no restrictions • on There areand no travel. restrictions essential purposes, or to domestic domestic travel. domestic only limited a maximum linked to the capacity gatherings of up to 15to distancing. of home. outside their county ofphysical residence to play golf. only for essential nonservices only.travel.

Organised limited to 6 people Travel Hospitality essential purposes, or to on domestic domestic travel. from on domestic take exercise within 5km advice into account.on of 15 people with strict of the venue travel.

– taking to play golf. social and non-tourist outdoor gatherings of the same household.

Travel people mayresidence take place. take exercise within 5km of home. physical distancing. public health advice into USEFUL LINKS: purposes. up to 15 people may take home.

• of People should stay at account. place. home, except for travel for www.gov.ie/en • Golfers must not travel work, education or other • There are no restrictions • There are no restrictions • There are no restrictions www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub outside their county of USEFUL LINKS: essential purposes, or to • on domestic travel. on domestic travel. on domestic travel. residence to play golf.

Travel take exercise within 5km USEFUL LINKS: www.gov.ie/en of home.

USEFUL LINKS: www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub • People should stay at www.gov.ie/en • There are no • There are no • There are no • Golfers home, mustexcept not travel for travel for www.gov.ie/en • Golfers must not travel www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub other • Thererestrictions are no restrictions • There are no restrictions • There are no restrictions on restrictions on restrictionsoutside on their county ofoutsidework, theireducation countyorof www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub essential purposes, or to on domestic travel. on domestic travel. on domestic travel. residence to play golf.

Travel domestic travel. domestic travel. domestic travel. residence play within golf. 5km taketo exercise USEFUL LINKS: of home.

On Course Activities

On Course Facilities Activities– Clubhouse On Course Activities locker rooms and toilets TYPE OF ACTIVITY

Other Facilities – driving ranges, swing studios and club fitting

Coaching

Professional/Retail Shops

Hospitality

Travel

www.gov.ie/en www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub USEFUL LINKS: www.gov.ie/en

www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub The PGA Professional | #makinggolfhappen

Clubhouses must be closed.

Driving ranges and practice facilities must close.

No indoor or outdoor gatherings involving “individual training” except for professional and elite sports.

Coaching, whether indoors or outdoors, is not permitted. This includes coaching children.

All non-essential retail outlets must remain closed, but they can operate a ‘click and delivery’ service. *Please note that these *Please guidelines note that are *Please these subject *Please guidelines note *Please tonote update thatthat note these are *Please and these subject that guidelines change these guidelines note to update guidelines that arethese are subject and subject *Please guidelines are change to subject update to note update are to that and update subject and these change change and to guidelines update changeand are change subject to update and change

Clubhouse Facilities – locker rooms and toilets

Pubs must be closed.

Bars, cafes and restaurants may offer takeaway food and delivery only.

Accommodation is open only for essential nonsocial and nontourist purposes.

People should stay at home, except for travel for work, education or other essential purposes, or to take exercise within 5km of home.

15

NEWS The F s M n s e o Wa es announced on Restrictions in Wales COVID-19COVID-19 Restrictions Feb ua y 19 ha he cu en S ay a Home Level-by-level golf activity COVID-19 es c ons o Wa es w ema n n p ace o a RepublicRestrictions of Ireland u he h ee weeks The nex ev ew s due o COVID-19 Restrictions Permitted golf activityin in RepublicRestrictions of Ireland ake p ace on 12 h Ma ch 2021 COVID-19 COVID-19 Restrictions in Republic of Ireland COVID-19 Restrictions COVID-19 Restrictions in of in Republic RepublicTYPE ofOFIreland Ireland TYPE OF inLEVEL Republic of Ireland 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4 RESTRICTIONS in Northern Ireland ACTIVITY ACTIVITY COVID-19 Restrictions COVID-19 Restrictions in of COVID-19 in Republic RepublicRestrictions of Ireland Ireland in Republic of Ireland COVID-19 Restrictions On Course Activities in RepublicOnof Ireland COVID-19 Restrictions Course Activities in Republic of Ireland

COVID-19 Restrictions in Northern Ireland

Level-by-level golf activity (Last updated on Thursday, January 28 2021) Level-by-level golf activity (Last updated on Thursday, January 28 2021)

TYPE OF ACTIVITY TYPE OF ACTIVITY

TYPE OF OF ACTIVITY ACTIVITY TYPE

LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 Level-by-level golf activity activity (Last (Last updated on Thursday, January LEVEL 28 2021)3 Level-by-level golf updated on Thursday, January 28 2021)

LEVEL 4

LEVEL 5

LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4 LEVEL 5 Level-by-level golf activity (Last updated on Thursday, January 28 2021) • Golf courses may open, • Golf courses may open, • Golf courses open, • Golf courses may open,golf activity Level-by-level (Last may updated on Thursday, January 28 2021) activity (Last updated on Thursday, January 2852021) subject to social subject Level-by-level to social3distancing golf subject to social2distancing subject to social 1distancing LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL 4distancing LEVEL • Golf courses must LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4 LEVEL 5 be

rules.courses may open, rules.courses • Golf may open, 25 2021) • Golf Permitted golf activity (Last updated on Monday, January

rules.courses may open, rules.courses may open, • Golf • Golf closed.

• Tee times online • Tee times online • Tee times online • Tee times online subject to booked social distancing subject to booked social distancing subject to booked social distancing subject to booked social distancing Elite courses athletes, which • Golf must LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL 5 becan or bycourses phone.

For48+ minute or bycourses phone.

For38+ minute or bycourses phone.

For28+ minute or bycourses phone.

For18+ minute rules. rules. rules. rules.

• Golf may open, • Golf may open, • Golf may open, • Golf may open, LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4open, LEVEL 5 our be argued includes • Golf courses may closed.

• Golf courses may open, • Golf courses may open, •• Golf courses may open, Golf courses must times, play is restricted to times, play is restricted to times, play is restricted to times, play is restricted to • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 subject to social distancing subject to social distancing subject to social distancing subject to social distancing aremust technically subject to social distancing • Members, Elite athletes, which subject to social distancing subject to social distancing subject to social distancing Golf courses courses becan two golfers per start time; two golfers per start time; two golfers per start time; two golfers per start time; • Golf must be or by phone.

For 8+ minute or by phone.

For 8+ minute or by phone.

For 8+ minute or by phone.

For 8+ minute rules.• Golf courses may be rules. rules. rules.

• Golf courses TYPE OF ACTIVITY RESTRICTIONS becourses closed. allowed to includes train andour may rules. argued rules. rules.

• Golf courses may open, • Golf courses may open, • Golf courses may open, • rules.

Golf may open, closed.

For 9+ minute times, upto For 9+ minute times, upto For 9+ minute times, upto For 9+ minute times, upto closed. times, play is restricted times, play is restricted times, play is restricted times, play is restricted •• Tee Tee times booked online • Tee Tee times booked online • Tee Tee times booked online • Tee Tee times booked online On Course Activities Golf courses may open, • Golf courses may open, • Golf courses maydistancing open, Golf courses maydistancing open, play, both indoors and • times booked online Members, are technically • times booked online • times booked online •• times booked online subject to social distancing subject to social distancing subject to social subject to social • Elite athletes, which can open. open.

Level-by-level golftwo activity (Last updated on Thursday, Thursday, January 28 2021) 2021) Level-by-level golf activity (Last on January 28 • subject athletes, to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ •• Elite athletes, which canopen, per start time; two per time; two per time; two per time; Golf must be •courses Golf courses may •phone.

Golf courses may open, •phone.

Golf courses open, or bygolfers For 8+updated minute or by bygolfers Forstart 8+may minute or by bygolfers phone.

Forstart 8+ minute minute orElite bygolfers phone.

Forstart 8+ minute minute subject to social distancing subject to social distancing subject to social distancing to social distancing outdoors by phone.

8+ minute allowed to includes train andour or phone.

For 8+ minute or phone.

For 8+ or by phone.

For 8+ rules. rules. rules. rules. be argued Leve eve go or ac v ytoFor Golf must be minutes, 4 may play minutes, upistorestricted 4 by may play minutes, upistorestricted 4 may up play minutes, upistorestricted 4 may up play argued includes our For 9+ minute times, up For 9+subject minute times, up For 9+play minute times, For 9+play minute times, closed. subject to social subject to social distancing to social distancing times, play is restricted to times, play to times, to times, to On Course Activities Leve by eve go• times, ac vup yrestricted • play The Rule of four, • be • courses The Rule of distancing four, rules. rules. rules. rules. which be is to play, both indoors and play is restricted to playbooked is restricted to playbooked iscan restricted to Tee times booked online • times, Tee times booked online • times, Tee times online • times, Tee times online Members, are technically closed. per start time. per start time. per start time. per start time. are technically to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ • Members, Elite athletes, which can rules. rules. rules. two golfers per start start time; two golfers per start start time; two golfers per start start time; two golfers per start start time; • two Tee times booked online • two Tee times booked online • two Tee times booked online • two Tee times booked online golfers per time; outdoorsto train and golfers per time; golfers per time; golfers per time; or by phone.

For 8+ minute or by phone.

For 8+ minute or by phone.

For 8+ minute or by phone.

For 8+ minute allowed Elite which can excluding Under excluding Under totimes train and minutes, up to times, 4 booked may up play minutes, up to times, 4 booked may up play minutes, up to times, 4 may up play minutes, up to 4 may up play be argued includes our •athletes, Tee booked online •phone.

Tee times online • allowed •phone.

Tee times online For argued includes Forby 9+ minute Forby 9+ minute Forby 9+phone. minute For 9+phone. minute times, On Course Course Activities Activities or 8+ minute or 8+ minute or 8+ minute or by 8+ minute 9+ minute times, up to For 9+ minute times, up to For 9+ minute times, up to For 9+ minute times, up to times, play is For restricted times, play is For restricted times, play is For restricted times, play is For restricted play, both indoors indoors and On TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL TYPE OF LEVEL 118+ minute LEVEL 228+ minuteplay, LEVEL 338+ minute be argued includes our both and per start time. per start time. per startgolfers; time. per start time.

• Golf courses must be closed.

Leve by eve go v y Members, are technically or by phone.

For or byis phone. or byisphone. toac three golfers; ForFor 10+ to three three golfers; ForFor 10+ to three three ForACTIVITY 10+to to three three golfers; For 10+ 10+ times, play restricted to times, play restricted to times, play is restricted times, play is restricted to to three golfers; For 10+ to golfers; For 10+ to golfers; For 10+ to golfers; For 11s, applies 11s, applies two golfers per start time; two golfers perLEVEL start time; two golfers per start time; two golfers per start time; outdoors PGA Members, are can be TYPE OF 1 LEVEL 2when LEVEL 3when Members, technically • Elite athletes, which allowed toare train and times, play times, play to outdoors times, play is restricted to minutes, minutes, up to to 4start may play minutes, up to to 4start may play minutes, up to 4 4start mayACTIVITY playV Y minutes, minutes, up to to 4start maytime; play two9+ golfers per time; two9+ golfers per time; two9+ golfers per time; two9+ golfers per Yto O AC V Vis restricted Vis restricted to up 4 may play up 4 may play minutes, up may play minutes, up 4 may play For minute times, up For minute times, up For minute times, up For minute times, up On Course Activities allowed to train and argued includes PGA Members, are play, both indoors and two golfers per start time; two golfers per start time; two golfers per start time; per start time. per start time. per start time. per start time. meeting outdoors. meeting outdoors. technically allowed Forthree 9+ minute up Forthree 9+ minute up Forthree 9+ minute up For 9+ minute up per start time. times, per start time. times, per start time. times, per start time. times, to golfers; For 10+ to golfers; For 10+ to golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ On Course Activities Golf courses may open, Golf courses may open, Golf courses may open, Golf courses may open, •• Golf courses may open, ••• Golf courses may open, play,••both indoors and technically allowed to train and play, Golf courses may outdoors For 9+ minute times, up For 9+ minute times, up For 9+ minute times, up Onto Course Activities minutes, to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ to golfers; to three golfers; 10+ minutes, upcourses toto 4social may play upcourses toto 4social may play up 4 For may10+ play up to 4 For may playoutdoors.

• minutes, Allthree clubhouse facilites • minutes, Allto clubhouse facilites • Extended • •subject Extended Golf courses maydistancing open, • subject Golf may open, • subject Golf may open, subject to social distancing subject to social distancing to social subject to social distancing distancing distancing train and play, outdoors both indoors and to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ toshould three golfers; For 10+ • minutes, Y O AC V Y V V V Access should be • Access be On Course Activities up to 4 may play minutes, up to 4 may play minutes, up to 4 may play minutes, up to 4 may play G m G m G m time.to social distancing per start time.to social distancing per start per time. per start time. open. maystart open with may open with subject toup social subject subject rules. rules. rules. rules. rules. rules. minutes, to 4 distancing may play minutes, 4 may Level-by-level golf activity updated on Thursday, confined January 28 minutes, 4 may play confined must be to useup ofto toilets to2021) useup ofto toilets households (if play• Clubhouses households (if per start time. per start time. per start(Last time. per start time. indoors and measures in measures in • protective All clubhouse facilites • protective Allboth clubhouse facilites rules. rules. rules.

• Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online per start time. per start time. per start time. closed. initial retrieval initial retrieval • and Access should be of golf • and Access should be of golf place, including place, including may open with social may open with social • or Tee times booked online • or Tee times booked online • or Tee times booked online or by phone.

Forfour) 8+ minute ormore by phone.

For 8+ 8+ minute by phone.

For 8+ minute or by by phone.

For 8+ 8+ minute confined by For minute For minute four) more than outdoors.

G m G m G m equipment from lockers. equipment from lockers.

• Clubhouses must be tophone. usethan of toilets confined tophone. use of toilets m m m Clubhouse Facilities – distancing. distancing. protective measures in protective measures in or by phone.

For 8+ minute or by phone.

For 8+ minute or by phone.

For 8+ minute All clubhouse clubhouse facilites All clubhouse clubhouse facilites times, play is is restricted restricted to times, play is is restricted restricted to closed. times, play to times, play is is restricted restricted to and initial times, play times, play to •• All facilites •• All facilites retrieval golfm to and initial retrieval of eve golfm go • Access should be ofin Access should be m to locker rooms and toilets can meet can meet in Leve by ac two v yplay should be •• Access should be place, including place, including times, play restricted times, is restricted to times, play is restricted to• Access may open open with 2social may open open with 1social two golfers per start time; time; two golfers per start time; time; two golfers per start two golfers per start time; time; golfers per start two golfers per start TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL 3 LEVEL 4 LEVEL 5is may with may with equipment lockers. equipment lockers.

• Clubhouses must be confined tofrom use of of toilets confined tofrom use of of toilets m m m Clubhouse Facilities – must be confined to use toilets confined use toilets distancing. distancing. two golfers per start up time; two golfers per start up time; two golfers per start up time; protective measures in protective measures measures in in For 9+ 9+ minute times, up For 9+ minute times, up • Clubhouses For minute times, Forto 9+ minute times, up For 9+ minute times, For 9+ minute times, m m m On Course Activities public outdoor outdoor On Course Activities measures in • protective All clubhouse facilites • protective All clubhouse facilites closed.public and initial initial retrieval of golf golf m and initial initial retrieval of golf golf m w 9+ m w w 9+ locker rooms and toilets closed. and retrieval of and retrieval of For minute times, up For 9+ minute times, up For minute times, up • Access should be • Access should be place, including social place, including social to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ O C facilites A m m m • place, All clubhouse • place, All clubhouse including social including social may open may open withfacilites equipment from lockers. equipment from lockers. mgolfers; m mgolfers; m mgolfers; m Clubhouse Facilities Facilities –– Access should be • equipment Access should be Owith C A from lockers. from lockers. to For to For to For spaces but not10+ a • Clubhouses spaces not a must be confined to use of toilets confined to use of toilets •minutes, All clubhouse facilites •minutes, All clubhouse facilites distancing. distancing. minutes, upbut to 44 may may10+ play minutes, up to may play minutes, up to play minutes, up to may10+ play •• equipment up to 44 may play up to 44 may play Clubhouse mthree mthree mthree Golf courses may open, courses may open, • distancing.

Golf may open, • distancing.

Golf may open, may courses open with may courses open with • Access should be protective measures in V Y • Golf protective measures in locker rooms rooms and and toilets toilets • closed.

Clubhouses must confined to use of toilets confined to use of toilets Y O AC Vto Vto Vbe minutes, up to 4 may play minutes, up may play minutes, up may play and initial retrieval of4 golf and initial retrieval of4 golf may open with may open with per start time. per start time. per time. per start time. per time. per time. locker w start m w m wtostart m subject tostart social distancing subject social distancing subjectincluding to social distancing subjectincluding to social distancing protective measures in protective measures in confined to use of place, social place, social m m toilets m m m m regulated regulated • closed.

Golf courses must besetting. and initial retrieval ofsetting. golf and initial retrieval of golf per start time. per start time. per start time. equipment from lockers. equipment from lockers. protective measures in protective measures in Clubhouse Facilities – m m m m m m rules. rules. rules. rules.

• distancing.

Clubhouses must place, including place, social and initialm retrieval of golf distancing. m m O C social A •including Clubhouses must bebe closed. closed. equipment from lockers. equipment from lockers. place, including social place, including social Clubhouse Facilities – • Driving ranges and locker rooms and toilets • Tee times booked online • Tee times booked online • Tee times may booked online times may booked online distancing. distancing. equipment from lockers.

• Facilities open with •• Tee Facilities open with Clubhouse Facilities – • Elite athletes, which can G m G m G m distancing. distancing. locker roomsFacilities and toilets practice m facilities mustm m m m m or by phone.

For 8+ minute by phone.

8+ minute or by phone.

For 8+ minute orclosed. by phone.

For 8+ minute Clubhouse – • or Facilities mayFor open with protective measures, protective measures, locker rooms and toilets be argued includes our • close.

Driving ranges and m m m times, play is restricted to times, play measures, is restricted to times, play is restricted to times, play is restricted to locker rooms and toilets protective account of public account of public • taking Facilities may open with • taking Facilities may open with Members, are technically • practice No indoor or outdoor facilities must golfers per start time; two golfers per start time; two golfers perincluding start time; two golfers perincluding start time; • two Facilities must account of public health advice, health advice, • taking Facilities may with protective measures, protective measures, allowed to train and All clubhouse clubhouse facilites All clubhouse facilites •• All facilites •• All clubhouse facilites m m be closed m open gatherings involving close.

For 9+ minute times, up For 9+ advice, minute times, up • Driving Driving ranges and be For 9+distancing. minute times, up For 9+distancing. minute times, up Access should be •• Access should On Course Activities health including social social • ranges and protective measures, taking account of public taking account of public A A open play, both indoors and • Facilities may open with • Facilities may open with may open with may open with may open with may with m m m Other Facilities – • AClubhouses • confined “individual training” • Facilities may open with • Facilities may open with No indoor or outdoor AClubhouses to three golfers; For 10+ may • practice to three golfers;of For 10+ practice facilities must to three golfers; For 10+ to three golfers; For 10+ confined tomust use of ofmay toilets to use toilets A social distancing.

• health Club fitting may take • health Club fitting may take closed taking account public advice, including advice, including m w m w outdoors Facilities may open open with in protective measures, protective measures, protective measures in protective measures in • Facilities protective measures in protective measures Afor mfacilities m must be mmay driving ranges, swing except professional •• Facilities with protective protective gatherings involving up to 4in may play minutes, to 4 may play may minutes, close. minutes, upmeasures, to 4 may play minutes, upmeasures, to 4 may play and initial retrieval of golf golf and initial retrieval mopen w m w • place, •up Clubhouses open in line of place. place. health advice, including social social mline m Driving and protective measures, takingdistancing. account of of public public takingdistancing. account of of public public place, including socialm • close. place, including socialm place, including social including social wranges m w w Other Facilities – studios and club fitting and elite sports. protective measures, account account “individual training” • taking Facilities may open with • taking Facilities may open with per start time. per start time.

• No indoor or outdoor per start time. per start time. equipment from lockers. equipment from lockers. m m Clubhouse Facilities –– social Clubhouse Facilities • No Driving ranges and indoor or m outdoor distancing.

• health Club fitting may take • health Club fitting may take practice facilities mustm Facilities must be closed closed takingdistancing. account of public public advice, including advice, including distancing. distancing. distancing. mrules m m driving ranges, swing Awith A • health Facilities open with • health Facilities may open with •• Facilities must be account of advice, including advice, including exceptAwith for professional Crooms A m rules mon open. on with • gatherings • taking Facilities maymopen with protective measures, protective measures, gatherings involving COmay locker rooms and toilets locker and toilets practice facilities must involving place. place. close.

• Facilities may open • Facilities may open with health advice, including social distancing. social distancing. m m studios and club fitting Other Facilities m w m w with C measures, • health Facilities may open protective protective measures, advice, including social distancing. social distancing. and elite sports. protective measures, taking account of m public taking account of public “individual training” Other Facilities –– close. training” • “individual No indoor or outdoor •m Facilities may open protective measures, protective measures, social distancing.

Club fitting fitting mayof take Club fitting fitting mayof take m with m m m m hospitality. hospitality. driving ranges, ranges, swing swing protective measures, taking account public taking account public m social distancing.

•• Club may take •• Club may take • Facilities must bemclosed taking account ofmpublic health advice, including health advice, including except for professional professional driving No indoor or outdoor for gatherings involving protective taking account of public • except account of public • Facilities place. advice, including place. mmeasures, m m studios and club fitting fitting must be takingtaking account of health health advice, including • place.

Driving ranges and place. health advice, including social distancing. social distancing. and eliteLEVEL sports. studios and club TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3 public LEVEL 4 closed 5 mof public Other Facilities – maccount gatherings involving elite sports.

• Driving ranges and swing studios C “individual training” taking health advice, including and health advice, including health advice, including social distancing. social distancing. social distancing.

Club fitting may take • Club fitting may take Fitting is• not Otherranges, Facilities – driving swing “individual training” must be closed.must allowed. except for professional health advice, including social distancing. distancing. m Facilities – All clubhouse facilites Allswing clubhouse facilites social social distancing.

• place.

Club fittingOther may • place.

Club fittingstudios may Other Facilities – driving ranges, TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1take LEVEL 2take LEVEL 3 may take LEVEL 4 may take LEVEL 5 studios and club swing fitting • Access should be • Access should be except for professional and elite sports. social distancing.

• Club fitting • Club fitting driving may open with ranges, swing may with Fitting is place. place. beopen closed. drivingand ranges, studios clubswing fitting • and Clubhouses must be confined to use of toilets confined to use of toilets elite sports. place. place. studios and club fitting protective measures in protective measures in studios and club fitting retrieval golfwith and •initial retrieval of golfwith • Facilities Facilities may open with closed. LEVEL 5 • Facilities Facilities may open with and •initial may open may TYPE OF OF ACTIVITY ACTIVITY LEVEL 11social LEVEL 22social LEVEL LEVEL 4 of notincluding allowed.

TYPE LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL 33 open LEVEL 4 LEVEL 5 place, including place, equipment frommmeasures, lockers. equipment frommmeasures, lockers.

Facilities may may open open with with protective measures,w protective measures,w •• Facilities protective protective A A Clubhouse Facilities – distancing. distancing. mm w mmand other w A • taking outdoors • Non-contact outdoors • Outdoor coaching may • Normal coaching sessions mmeasures, protective measures,w taking account of public public • Coaching, taking account of public public • Non-contact account account m w of mRanges w of locker rooms and toilets whether TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 of up LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL 5m m w • taking Ranges and • protective Ranges andofswing coaching only in4m pods ofswing coaching only in3m pods of take place in pods may take place indoors taking account public health advice, including health advice, including taking account public health advice, health advice, golf facilities TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3m including LEVEL 4m including LEVEL 5m of indoors or outdoors, is not to social 15. to social 15.

15. outdoors with • up Non-contact outdoors Non-contact outdoors • to Outdoor coaching may • and Normal coaching sessions health advice, including social distancing. social distancing. distancing. health advice, including distancing.

TYPE ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 w LEVEL 2 open LEVEL 3 studios studios may OtherOF Facilities Other Facilities –– • up TYPE OF ACTIVITY RESTRICTIONS m may w m This • permitted.

Coaching, whether m includes m open C O • coaching Individual indoors training Individual indoors training • take Indoor coaching may take protective measures. in m pods of only in m pods of place in pods of up may take place indoors may open and social distancing.

Clubonly fitting may take Club fitting may take social distancing.

•• Club fitting may take •• Club fitting may take m w driving ranges, swing• coaching driving ranges, swing coaching children. indoors or outdoors, is not O of up and outdoors clubmfitting is and club fitting is mmay only. only. place pods to six. w up to place.

15. to place.

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15. up to 15.

15.permitted. to 15. in pods of up to six. and outdoors with with Coaching to to 15. outdoors • up Non-contact outdoors • up Non-contact outdoors • to Outdoor coaching may • and coaching sessions O permitted.

This includes Driving ranges This and includes •• permitted.

Coaching, whether Individual indoors training • Individual indoors training Indoor coaching may take protective measures. m m Facilities may open with Facilities may open with Non-contact outdoors Non-contact outdoors • Indoor Outdoor coaching may • protective Normal coaching sessions ••• Individual indoors training indoors training •• coaching may take measures. coaching only in pods of coaching only in pods of take place in pods of up may take place indoors coaching children. w •• Individual permitted. practice facilities must • coaching Coaching, whether children. indoors or outdoors, is not • Non-contact outdoors • Outdoorin coaching • Normal only. only. place in pods pods of up upof toup six.

• only.

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LEVEL 33pods indoors or outdoors, is not of This includes only in take place in pods may measures, take place 1indoors protective taking ofmay taking account of public up to 15. up to 15. to 15. account and outdoors with • Individual indoors training indoors training • Indoor coaching takeV Y • Individual protective measures.

• No indoor or outdoor Y O AC V V V permitted.

This coaching children. up to 15. includes to 15. and outdoors with Coaching is not permitted.

Facilities must beVclosed taking account ofVpublic health including health• advice, including • only.

Individual indoors training • only.

Individual indoors training • place Indoorinadvice, coaching may take protective measures.

Y O AC V Y V pods of up to six. gatherings involving Coaching m w take coaching mmeasures. w children.

• Individual indoors training • Indoor coaching may protective health advice, including social distancing. social distancing. only. only. place in pods of up to six.

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• Club fitting may take •• Club may take Coaching Coaching driving ranges, swing • except All non-essential retail for professional m Y O AC V V V businesses that are • place.

Face coverings must be V Y • place.

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• All non-essential retail Non-contact outdoors • Outdoor Outdoor coaching may Normal coaching coaching sessions sessions businesses •• Non-contact outdoors coaching may •• Normal can •remain open.

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•• All retail can remain open.

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• Individual indoors training • Indoor coaching may take protective measures.

TYPE OF ACTIVITY LEVEL 1 can LEVEL 2 may LEVELguidance 3 w LEVEL LEVEL 5 outlets(15 must remain other retail and 4 personal measures in place. measures in place. primarily outdoors only worn and retailers worn and retailers with (15 indoors, indoors, click and delivery primarily outdoors only worn and retailers may worn and retailers can delivery’ service. m m • Essential retail and of closed, but they they can can All retail retail shops may open. open. only. place in pods of up up to to six. six. closed, only. place in pods Professional/Retail Shops Nbut O are N shops m Coaching Coaching •• All may services closed.

• All non-essential retail can remain open.

All mm open with with protective protective open with with protective protective m • businesses Essential and remain open.

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Professional/Retail Shops Shops outlets must remain service. closed, but they can shops may w open.

• Face coverings must be delivery’ • Face coverings must be services are closed.

Professional/Retail exceptions exceptions primarily outdoors only wornmust and retailers worn •with and can retail outlets All retailers non-essential Y O may AC V Y • All retail V V V services are closed. can remain open.

All open with protective open protective mmay m open. closed, but theyand can All retail shops operate a ‘click worn open. and retailers worn and retailers can •• Restaurants andmay pubs remain closed, but they can operate a can remain All open with protective open with protective other retail and personal • All retail shops measures in place. measures in place.

• Bars, cafes and operate aservice. ‘click and may open. for children’s for children’s open withpersonal protective open protective C • delivery’ Pubs must be closed. operating aswith restaurants Professional/Retail Shops click delivery service. measures in place. other retail and measures in and place. are closed.

• services Cafes and restaurants, restaurants, as well as Non-contact outdoors Non-contact outdoors Outdoor coaching may coaching sessions service.

Hospitality venues, measures in place. measures in place.

Professional/Retail Shops •• Normal • delivery’ Bars, cafes and open forand indoor •• Bars, cafes and •• may Restaurants pubs Coaching, whether services are closed. activities. activities.

Professional/Retail Shops including bars, should may with • wet Bars,pubs, cafes andopen Professional/Retail Shops coaching only in pods of coaching only in pods of take place in pods of up may take place indoors may offeris not dining withasadditional restaurants may open with • restaurants Pubs must be closed. operating restaurants indoors or outdoors, such as cafes, or protective measures • only Cafes and takeaway restaurants, restaurants, as well asin up tooffer 15. up toopen 15. for indoor to 15. cafesmeasures and outdoors with restrictions. in • takeaway Bars, cafesfood and and may • protective Bars, and permitted.

This includes Restaurants and pubs pubs delivery. place.

••• Restaurants and should wet pubs, with • including Individualbars, indoors training Individual indoors training • restaurants Indoor coaching may take protective measures.

Bars, cafesmay andopen restaurants, pubs, delivery • dining Wet pubs may offer place. restaurants may offer •• Bars, cafes and may open with coaching children.

Pubs must must be closed. operating asadditional restaurants N only.

O dining, m Nwith m Outdoor or service • restaurants, Maximum numbers are •• Pubs be closed. operating as restaurants only offer takeaway or protective measures in only. only. place in pods of up to six.

• Cafes and restaurants, as well as • Face coverings must be • Face coverings must be • Face coverings must be • Face coverings must be Coaching • takeaway Accommodation is open delivery • protective Individual • Cafes and restaurants, restaurants, as well as restrictions. measures Bars, cafes cafesfood and and may open open fortakeaway indoor Bars, cafes cafesgroups and arein m and only limited to ashould maximum linked toand the capacity and for indoor • Bars, and delivery. bars social place. m may • may Restaurants and pubsm can including bars, wet pubs, may open with with worn and retailers may • Bars, worn and retailers can worn and retailers worn and retailers only nononly.

Organised limited to 6 may people from including bars, should delivery only. pubs, may open • services Wet pubs may offer place.

• wet Bars, cafes and restaurants may offer dining with additional restaurants open with Allessential retail shops may open. open.

••for All retail shops may m m w Hospitality • Restaurants and pubs of 15 people with strict the venue – taking restaurants may offer dining with additional restaurants may open with • Outdoor dining, or service • of Maximum numbers are w w • Pubs must be closed. operating as restaurants only offer offer takeaway or m protective measures in open with protective protective open with protective open with open with protective • protective Bars, cafesmeasures and andfood non-tourist outdoor gatherings of same household. takeaway or • social Accommodation isand open in delivery and takeaway • the Individual groups arein A mpubs • only Cafes and restaurants, Restaurants restaurants, asadvice wellbe as takeaway and restrictions. protective measures clubs, must w w Non-essential mm m Pubs must be operating as restaurants physical distancing. public health into food and restrictions. in only maximum linked to the capacity wto ain w • limited Non-essential • •for • takeaway Bars, cafes andclosed. may open for indoor • protective Bars, cafesmeasures and •• Bars, cafes and delivery. place. measures in place. measures in place. measures place. measures in place.

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Organised limited to 6 people from including bars, should operating as restaurants wet pubs, may open with delivery only.

• Wet pubs may offer place. w w Hospitality Professional/Retail Shops • delivery Bars, cafes and may pubs open for indoor • place.

Bars, Professional/Retail cafes and account.

C open with Shops only.

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Hospitality takeaway food and restrictions. protective in essential nononly. limited account. delivery only.

• services Wet pubs may place. protective measures in of 15 people people withmay strict open. only of the venue venue taking restaurants, socialto 6measures shops, may shops, shops, may Hospitality wwith w offer delivery. place.

15 strict the –– taking place.

Outdoor dining, or service in restrictions. protective measures • of Maximum numbers are bars andthe social and non-tourist outdoor gatherings of open.• of same household. household. delivery only.

• outdoor Wet pubs may offerof place. and non-tourist gatherings same • social Accommodation is open delivery and takeaway • the Individual groups are place. physical distancing. public health advice into clubs, must be closed, with the m m • physical Outdoor dining, or service • public Maximum numbers are providing takeaway, distancing. health advice into only limited to a maximum • Wet pubs may offer place. linked to the capacity purposes. up to 15 people may take • purposes.

Accommodation open delivery and takeaway • limited Individual up to•15 people may take are only for essential is nonservices only.

Organised to 6groups peopleare from Maximum numbers account. exception of providing takeaway, R Hospitality • of Essential retail only to aand maximum linked to the –capacity account.

15 •limited people with strict are delivery and takeaway Individual groups of the venue taking place. only. Organised • social All non-essential retail only for essential nonservices limited tohousehold.

6 people from place. drive-through ordelivery.• the and non-tourist outdoor gatherings of same linked to the capacity drive-through or Hospitality businesses that Face coverings must be • public Face must into be Indoor Hospitality Restaurants and pubs •• Restaurants and pubs of 15 people with of thecoverings venue taking physical distancing. services only.

Organised limited toare 6strict people from • social health –advice People should stay at Hospitality outlets must remain Bars, cafes and •• Bars, and and non-tourist outdoor gatherings the same household. purposes. up to 15 may take of people thecafes venue –of taking primarily outdoors only worn and retailers may worn and retailers can operating as restaurants operating as restaurants physical distancing. public health advice into outdoor gatherings the same household. account. delivery. home, except for travel forof closed, but they can • place.

All retail shops may open. restaurants, as well as restaurants, as well as purposes. up to 15 people mayadvice take into • Golfers must not travel public health can •remain open.

All protective open protective may open for indoor • Bars, Bars, cafes cafes and and may open for indoor up 15 people may take education or other • account.

Therewith are no restrictions • open Therewith are no restrictions • place.

Therewet are pubs, no restrictions • work, People should stay at w operate ato ‘click and wet pubs, may open open with with outside their county of may account. m other retail and personal measures in place. measures in place. dining with additional restaurants may open with dining with additional restaurants may open with w place. essential purposes, or tofor on domestic travel. on domestic travel. on domestic travel. home, except for travel w m w delivery’ service. protective measures in • residence protective measures m m m in Professional/Retail Shops to play golf.

Golfers must not travel w m • protective Licensed services are closed. restrictions. protective measures inw restrictions. measures in w m w Travel take exercise 5km work, education or other • There are no restrictions • There are no restrictions • There• are no restrictions m People should stay at place. place. wwithin m of m w •• People w their county w Hospitality is • alcohol for should stay at outside m Wet pubs may offer place.

•• Wet pubs may offer place. m ANo m of home. essential purposes, or tofor domestic travel. on domestic • onHospitality venues, on domestic travel.

TYPE OF ACTIVITY RESTRICTIONS home, except for travel travel Maximum numbers are •• Maximum numbers m premises may wtravel. w are home, except for for towplay golf.

W m takeaway • residence Golfers must notgroups travel delivery and takeaway Individual groups are delivery and •• Individual are Travel m open.

Licensed consumption take within 5km on M mto mthe m work,exercise education or other other There are are no no restrictions restrictions There are are no no restrictions restrictions Therelinked are no restrictions linked to the capacityw • Golfersmmust not travel capacity W m m w mm work, education or •• There •• There •• There are no restrictions w • People should stay at outside their county of services only.

Organised limited to 6 people from services only.

Organised limited to 6 people from such as cafes, M m m alcohol w m of w Hospitality Hospitality R outside serve their county of home. purposes, essential or to tow on domestic domestic travel. travel. on domestic domestic travel. travel. on domestic domestic travel. of the the venue venue taking of –– taking m • People should stay at essential purposes, or on on on travel.

O m m home,outdoor except for travel forof premises caninto premises. residence to play play golf. outdoor gatherings of the same same household. gatherings the household.

Travel H m residence to golf.

• Golfers must not travel take exercise within 5km public health advice into public health advice O m m restaurants, pubs, Travel between 6am home, except for travel fortake H take exercise 5km mnot travel work, education or other • There are no restrictions • There are no restrictions •• There are noand restrictions up to 15 15within people may take up to people may W m Restaurants pubs • Golfers must outside their county of of home. account. account. m serve • place.

Premises can M m travel. m alcohol m Bars, cafes and work, education or other • on There areand no restrictions • on There are no travel. restrictions • on There are no restrictions home. m essential purposes, or tow domestic travel. domestic domestic place. bars social Pubs beare closed. operating as are restaurants outside their county of and 10pm where • of to play golf.

• There no restrictions • residence There are no restrictions •must There no restrictions m USEFUL LINKS: Travel Cafes• and restaurants, restaurants, well as essential purposes, or to on domesticas travel. on domestic travel. on domestic travel. take exercise within 5km 6am and residence open O m domestic m • Bars, cafes andbetween may open for indoor Bars, cafes and to play golf.

• Hospitality venues, such •as cafes, onbetween domestic travel. on travel. on domestic travel.

H Travel including bars, should wet pubs, may open with take exercise within 5km clubs, must be of home. it ismpart of a Travel restaurants may offer dining with additional may open with restaurants, pubs, bars andrestaurants social USEFUL LINKS: or protective measures in www.gov.ie/en 10pm. Premises only offer takeaway 6am and 6pm and of home. restrictions. protective measures in clubs,with must be closed, with the closed, the substantial meal. takeaway food and m delivery. place. www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub exception of providing takeaway, delivery only.

• Wet pubs may offer place. w by must close for takeaway after Outdoor Hospitality • Outdoor dining, or service • Maximum numbers are www.gov.ie/en USEFUL LINKS: m exception of • limited Premises must • Accommodation drive-through or delivery.

USEFUL LINKS: is open delivery • Individual groups are w and takeaway m w only to a maximum linked to the capacity w m w www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub 6pm. only for essential nonservices10.20pm. only. Organised limited to 6 people from m Hospitality providing takeaway, of 15 people with strict of the venue – taking close by m 10.20pm. www.gov.ie/en and non-tourist outdoor gatherings of the same household.

There are no no restrictions restrictions There are are no no restrictions restrictions social There are no no restrictions restrictions •• There are •• There •• There are www.gov.ie/en USEFUL LINKS: physical distancing. public health advice into W m www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub USEFUL LINKS: purposes. up to on 15 take drive-through or on domestic travel. on domestic domestic travel. travel. on domestic domestic travel. travel. domestic travel. on on www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub M people m m may m account.

USEFUL LINKS: w Travel Travel m m m place. www.gov.ie/en m m m O m m delivery.

H www.gov.ie/en www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub m www.gov.ie/en • No travel tomareas www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub m m m of high prevalence

TYPE OF ACTIVITY TYPE OF ACTIVITY

Clubhouse Facilities – locker rooms and toilets

Coaching

Other Facilities – driving ranges, swing studios and club fitting

Professional/ Retail Shops

Indoor Hospitality

Coaching

Pro ess ona Re a Shops

Hosp a

*Please note that these guidelines are subject to update and change

Outdoor Hospitality

y

*Please note that these guidelines are *Please note that these guidelines are subject to update and change *Please note that these guidelines are subject to update*Please and change note *Please that these *Please note guidelines that *Please note these that note are guidelines these that subject guidelines these are tosubject guidelines update subject are to subject and toupdate are update change subject toand update andchange to change update and change and change

Other Facilities – driving ranges, swing studios and club fitting

Clubhouse Facilities – locker rooms and toilets

• People should entry • Peopleor should stayof at • No travel to • No travel to areas home, except for travel for • People should stay at home. All USEFUL LINKS: LINKS: USEFUL stay at home.travel All • Golfers must not travel people from unnecessary be avoided. work, education or other • There are no restrictions should • There • There are no restrictions Uare no U restrictions NK areas of high of high prevalence Travel outside their county of U U NK essential purposes, or to onunnecessary domestic travel. travel on domestic travel. on domestic travel. www.gov.ie/en high prevalence www.gov.ie/en residence to play golf.

Travel prevalence or or entry of take exercise within 5km www www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub Travel should be avoided. www areas without of home. www U NK entry from people people from www U reasonable m m m of high prevalence high prevalence www excuse.

Trave www areas without areas without USEFUL LINKS: The cu en COV D 19 es c ons n • Guidance against www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-whatUSEFUL LINKS: reasonable reasonable No he n e and wh ch we e n oduced restrictions-mean-you travel to lower excuse. excuse. www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub www.gov.ie/en prevalence areas by he No he n e and Execu ve on 21s www.pga.info/covid-19-resource-hub U U NK • in other parts of Decembe 2020 have been ex ended www the UK. un 1s Ap 2021

LEVEL 4

• Golf courses may open, subject to social distancing rules.

• Tee times booked online LEVEL LEVEL 448+ minute or by phone.

For LEVEL 4 times, play to Vis restricted 4 two golfers per start time; • Golf courses may open, • Golf courses may open, • Golf must For 9+courses minute times, up • subject Golf courses may open, subject to social distancing to social distancing to three golfers; For 10+ Vm 4 G close. subject social rules. rules. minutes,toup to 4 distancing may play rules Tee times booked online online •• Tee booked pertimes start time. m or by phone.

For 8+ minute or by phone.

For 8+ minute G m m m to times, play play is is restricted restricted to times, m m golfers two golfers per per start start time; time; two m w m For 9+ minute times, times, up up For 9+ minute m w m to three threem golfers;m For 10+ 10+ to golfers; For m m m minutes, up to to 44 may may play play minutes, up m • Access should V be 4m m per start time. time. per w start m confined to use of m m toilets m m m of golf and initialm retrieval equipment from lockers.

G m m m m m Access should should be be •• Access m A confined to use use of of toilets toilets confined to Am and initial retrieval of golf golf and initial retrieval of • Clubhouses must w m equipment from from lockers. lockers. equipment mm mm close.

A m m m m m m mustmbe closed • Facilities

• A Driving ranges Facilities must be be closed •• Facilities must closed and swing studios m LEVEL 4 m m m must close and club fitting is not m permitted.

• Non-contact outdoors LEVEL LEVEL 44pods of coaching only in 4 up to 15. V V 4 • Individual indoors training only.

V

4

m Non-contact outdoors outdoors •• Non-contact N coaching only in in pods pods of of coaching only N up to to 15.

15. up • •• Individual Coaching is not Individual indoors training indoors training only. only.

N permitted.

• Essential retail and businesses that are V 4 primarily outdoors only can remain open. All other retail and personal services are closed.

Essential retail retail and and •• Essential N

businesses that that are are • businesses Non-essential primarily outdoors outdoors only only primarily mremain can remain open. open. All All can retail, m m including A other retail retail and and personal personal other m A pro must •services Cafesshops, and restaurants, services are closed. are closed. including bars, should m close but click only offer m takeaway A or delivery. and collect can • Outdoor dining, or service continue. only limited to a maximum of 15 people with strict Cafes anddistancing. restaurants, •• Cafes and restaurants, physical including bars, bars, should should including only offer offer takeaway takeaway or or only w delivery. delivery. m w Outdoor dining, orAservice service •• Outdoor dining, or m O limited only limited to to aa maximum maximum only O • of All m m m of 15 hospitality people with strict 15 people with strict wm m m m m w physical distancing. physical distancing. facilities must w •O Golfers must not travel be closed, except m their county m of m m outside residence to w play golf. for takeaway and

delivery.

w Golfers must must not not travel travel •• Golfers G m outside their county county of of outside their G m O residence to to play play golf. golf. residence m m m m w G m

March 2021

• Golf courses must be closed.

• Elite athletes, c LEVELwhich LEVEL 55 be argued V includes o V technic Members, are allowed to train and play, both indoors an V must Golf courses must be be •• Golf courses outdoors G m closed. closed.

G m Elite athletes, athletes, which which cc •• Elite w be argued argued includes includes ou be ou w Members, arem technic Members, are technica G M m allowed to train train and and allowed to M m wboth play, both indoors indoors and play, w and w outdoors outdoors M m V • Clubhouses must be w closed.

G

m

w Clubhouses must must be be •• Clubhouses m closed. closed.

M m m w

• Driving ranges and practice facilities mus m close.

• No indoor or outdoor gatherings involving “individual training” except for profession Driving ranges and •• Driving ranges and and elite sports.

D practice facilities mus mus practice facilities D m close. close. m No indoor indoor or orm outdoor •• No outdoor N gatherings involving gatherings involving D LEVEL 5 N “individual training” training” “individual m except for for professiona profession except and elite sports. sports. and N elite

• Coaching, whether LEVEL LEVEL 55 indoors or V outdoors, D permitted.VThis includ coaching children.m

V

N

Coaching, whether whether •• Coaching, w indoors or or outdoors, outdoors, ii indoors w permitted. This This includ includ permitted. m coaching children. coaching children. m w • All non-essential reta m must V remain outlets closed, but they can operate a ‘click and delivery’ service.

All non-essential non-essential retai reta •• All w A outlets must remain remain outlets must A m mcan closed, but but they they can closed, m m m operate aa ‘click ‘click and and operate •delivery’ Pubs must be closed. delivery’ service. service.

A • Bars, cafes m andm restaurants may offer takeaway food and delivery only.

• Accommodation is op only for essential non Pubs must be closed. closed.

•• Pubs socialmust and be non-touris m Bars, cafes and and •• Bars, cafes purposes. m restaurants may offer offer restaurants may A m and takeaway food and takeaway m food m m w delivery only. delivery m only. w Accommodation is is op op •• Accommodation A for mmessential only for essential nonnon only A mm m socialw and non-tourist non-tourist social and • People should stay at purposes. purposes. home, except for trav A work,mm education or ot essential purposes, o take exercise within 5 of home. m

People should should stay stay at at •• People m home, except except for for trave trav home, m w work, education or or oth ot work, education m w essential purposes, purposes, or or essential w A mm take exercise exercise within within 55 take w of home. home. of m w m w m w m

• People cannot G travelmwithout a reasonable Travel excuse.

www

16

LEVEL 5

|

www.pga.info

m w w m

NEWS

Level 4 (Stay at Home) Groups of up to 2 golfers from a maximum of two households.

Groups from a single household.

Golfers under the age of 12 do not count towards the number of golfers within a group (This is at the discretion of the golf club).

All tee times must be booked in advance.

Caddies are not currently permitted if the numbers within the group would exceed 2.

All indoor clubhouse facilities should be closed.

One off appointments to retrieve equipment are permissable.

Toilets can remain open, subject to following Government public toilet guidelines at all times – click here.

All indoor hospitality facilities should be closed.

Takeaway service may be provided for consumption off the premises.

Takeaways can no longer allow customers indoors, and must instead operate from a hatch or doorway.

The sale of alcohol for consumption outdoors is not permitted.

All outdoor hospitaity facitlities should be closed.

Takeaway service may be provided for consumption off the premises.

Takeaways can no longer allow customers indoors, and must instead operate from a hatch or doorway.

The sale of alcohol for consumption outdoors is not permitted.

All professional and retail shops should be closed.

Click and collect can’t be operated. ndoor starter facilities should not be offered at this ime.

All indoor or a combination of indoor and outdoor acilities should be closed.

Fully outdoor facilities (regardless of whether bays are covered or not) and if access to the bays can be controlled with physical distancing and all appropriate hygiene measures in place these can emain open.

Club fitting services cannot be offered at this time.

Only outdoor coaching is permitted.

Over the age of 12 – 1:1 coaching only.

Under the age of 12 – group coaching should not exceed group sizes of 30.

Number of coaching sessions that can be delivered per day are unlimited.

Avoid any unnecessary travel into or out of the ocal area.

Keep journeys within the area to an absolute minimum.

Follow Government ‘Stay at Home’ guidelines at all imes – click here.

Covid-19 Local Restrictions in Scotland

Golf Activity by Level

The latest announcement from the First Minister of Scotland (23rd February) means there are no immediate changes to the current COVID-19 restrictions in Scotland – more detail is expected in mid-March.

TYPE OF ACTIVITY

On Course Activities

Clubhouse Facilities – locker rooms and toilets

Avoid any unnecessary travel into or out of the ocal area.

Keep journeys within the area to an absolute minimum.

Follow Government guidelines ‘Stay at Home’ at all imes – click here.

Indoor Hospitality

Level 0

Level 1

Level 3

Level 4

• For those golf clubs who have a Covid Officer and applicable risk assessments: Groups of up to 4 golfers with no restrictions on number of households.

• For those golf clubs who do not have a Covid Officer and applicable risk assessments: Groups of up to 4 golfers with up to two households represented.

• • All tee times must be booked in advance.

• For those golf clubs who have a Covid Officer and applicable risk assessments: Groups of up to 4 golfers with no restrictions on number of households.

• For those golf clubs who do not have a Covid Officer and applicable risk assessments: Groups of up to 4 golfers with up to two households represented.

• • All tee times must be booked in advance.

• Groups of up to 2 golfers from a maximum of two households.

• Groups from a single household.

• Golfers under the age of 12 do not count towards the number of golfers within a group (This is at the discretion of the golf club).

• All tee times must be booked in advance.

• • Caddies are not currently permitted if the numbers within the group would exceed 2.

• All clubhouse facilities may remain open.

• All indoor clubhouse facilities should be closed.

• One off appointments to retrieve equipment are permissable.

• Toilets can remain open, subject to enhanced cleaning measures.

• All indoor clubhouse facilities should be closed.

• One-off appointments to retrieve equipment are permissable.

• Toilets can remain open, subject to following Government public toilet guidelines at all times.

• All indoor hospitality may continue.

• No alcohol can be served.

• Last entry 17.00, close at 18.00.

• All indoor hospitality facilities should be closed.

• Takeaway service may be provided.

• Takeaways can no longer allow customers indoors, and must instead operate from a hatch or doorway.

• The sale of alcohol for consumption outdoors is not permitted.

• All indoor hospitality facilities should be closed.

• Takeaway service may be provided for consumption off the premises.

• Takeaways can no longer allow customers indoors, and must instead operate from a hatch or doorway.

• The sale of alcohol for consumption outdoors is not permitted.

• All outdoor hospitaity facilities should be closed.

• Takeaway service may be provided for consumption off the premises.

• Takeaways can no longer allow customers indoors, and must instead operate from a hatch or doorway.

• The sale of alcohol for consumption outdoors is not permitted.

• Groups of up to 4 golfers with no restrictions on number of households.

• All tee times must be booked in advance.

• Groups of up to 4 golfers with no restrictions on number of households.

• All tee times must be booked in advance.

• Groups of up to 4 golfers with no restrictions on number of households.

• All tee times must be booked in advance.

• All clubhouse facilites may remain open.

• All clubhouse facilites may remain open.

• All clubhouse facilites may remain open.

• All indoor hospitality may continue.

• Alcohol can be served.

• Last entry 21.30, close at 22.30.

• All indoor hospitality may continue.

• Alcohol only served with a main meal.

• Last entry 19.00, close at 20.00.

• All indoor hospitality may continue.

• Alcohol can be served.

• Licensing times apply.

Level 4 (Stay at Home)

Level 2

V8 Last Updated 13/01/21

Outdoor Hospitality

• All outdoor hospitality can continue.

• Alcohol can be served.

• Licensing times apply.

• All outdoor hospitality can continue.

• Alcohol can be served.

• Last entry 21.30, close at 22.30.

• All outdoor hospitality can continue.

• Alcohol can be served.

• Last entry 21.30, close at 22.30.

• All outdoor hospitality can continue.

• No alcohol can be served.

• Last entry 17.00, close at 18.00.

• All outdoor hospitality facilities should be closed.

• Takeaway service may be provided.

• Takeaways can no longer allow customers indoors, and must instead operate from a hatch or doorway.

• The sale of alcohol for consumption outdoors is not permitted.

Professional/ Retail Shops

• All professional and retail shops may remain open.

• All professional and retail shops may remain open.

• All professional and retail shops may remain open.

• All professional and retail shops may remain open.

• All professional and retail shops should be closed.

• Click and collect can’t be operated.

• Indoor starter facilities should not be offered at this time.

• All professional and retail shops should be closed.

• Click and collect can’t be operated.

• Indoor starter facilities should not be offered at this time.

• All indoor facilities may remain open.

• All indoor or a combination of indoor and outdoor facilities should be closed.

• Fully outdoor facilities (regardless of whether bays are covered or not) and if access to the bays can be controlled with physical distancing and all appropriate hygiene measures in place these can remain open.

• Club fitting services cannot be offered at this time.

• All indoor or a combination of indoor and outdoor facilities should be closed.

• Fully outdoor facilities (regardless of whether bays are covered or not) and if access to the bays can be controlled with physical distancing and all appropriate hygiene measures in place these can remain open.

• Club fitting services cannot be offered at this time.

Other Facilities – driving ranges, swing studios and club fitting

• All indoor facilities may remain open.

• All indoor facilities may remain open.

• All indoor facilities may remain open.

Coaching

• All coaching is permitted.

• Group coaching should not exceed group sizes of 30.

• All coaching is permitted.

• Group coaching should not exceed group sizes of 30.

• All coaching is permitted.

• Group coaching should not exceed group sizes of 30.

• All coaching is permitted.

• Group coaching should not exceed group sizes of 30.

• Only outdoor coaching is permitted.

• Group coaching should not exceed group sizes of 30.

• Only outdoor coaching is permitted.

• Over the age of 12 – 1:1 coaching only.

• Under the age of 12 – group coaching should not exceed group sizes of 30.

• Number of coaching sessions that can be delivered per day are unlimited.

Travel (18 years old or over)

• Minimise unneccessary journeys.

• Avoid travel to Level 3 or Level 4 areas.

• Minimise unneccessary journeys.

• Avoid travel to Level 3 or Level 4 areas.

• Minimise unneccessary journeys.

• Avoid travel to Level 3 or Level 4 areas.

• Avoid any unnecessary travel into or out of the local area.

• Keep journeys within the area to an absolute minimum.

• Follow Government guidelines at all times.

• Avoid any unnecessary travel into or out of the local area.

• Keep journeys within the area to an absolute minimum.

• Follow Government ‘Stay at Home’ guidelines at all times.

• Avoid any unnecessary travel into or out of the local area.

• Keep journeys within the area to an absolute minimum.

• Follow Government ‘Stay at Home’ guidelines at all times.

Travel (17 years old or under)

• May travel to other levels except Level 4 for organised sport.

• May travel to other levels except Level 4 for organised sport.

• May travel to other levels except Level 4 for organised sport.

• May travel to other levels except Level 4 for organised sport.

• Avoid any unnecessary travel into or out of area.

• Keep journeys within the area to an absolute minimum.

• Follow Government ‘Stay at Home’ guidelines at all times.

• Avoid any unnecessary travel into or out of the local area.

• Keep journeys within the area to an absolute minimum.

• Follow Government guidelines ‘Stay at Home’ at all times.

The PGA Professional

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#makinggolfhappen

17

F E AT U R E

HOW TO GET

HOW TO ATTAIN

SAFEGOLF

CHECKED ACCREDITATION ENGLAND & WALES – 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.

Members who wish to access development funding from any Home Union must be on the SafeGolf accredited coaches register.

This process is similar to all other sports and provides The PGA with a recognised criteria for the checks.

SCOTLAND – Checks are carried out through Disclosure Scotland under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) and administered by Scottish Golf Limited. ** Administration will move to the PGA in 2021** All Scottish Members coaching children must be registered on the PVG scheme and carry out a renewal check every 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.

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

OTHER COUNTRIES – The procedures vary widely, however if you wish to work in the UK you may be required to produce a relevant check.

Individual countries’ procedures are available on request by contacting the Head of Governance.

SafeGolf Register. All members working with children should have completed a Safeguarding and Protecting Children Certificate (SPC) within the last three years. When members have a Criminal Records check and an SPC in place, they will appear on the SafeGolf register of accredited coaches. To ensure you are up to date, please contact Sara Gardner on 01675 470333.

PERSONAL DATA: Please remember that any certificate issued is confidential data and you should only share that information with The PGA. Please do not share your certificate with anyone else.

18

The PGA works in partnership with Home Unions from Scotland, Wales 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 Andy Wright, Head of Governance at The PGA. “One way we demonstrate good practice is to insist PGA Members, Assistants 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, they all expire after 3 years.

1840

PGA MEMBERS ARE SAFEGOLF ACCREDITED. (FEB 2021)

HOW TO REPORT SAFEGUARDING CONCERNS Members should contact Andy on 01675 470333 regarding any safeguarding concerns or if you are subject to criminal proceedings. You can also report concerns electronically via the homepage of www.safegolf.org England Golf are in the process of ensuring that all affiliated clubs attain SafeGolf status. Whilst The PGA support this initiative wherever possible, it is important to remind our members that they should not undertake the role of Welfare Officer at a golf club as this is a direct conflict of interest.

March 2021

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www.pga.info

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With no capital outlay required, and potential reductions in excess of 30% on your current bills, your involvement with GreenClub will help your business save money, while paving the way for golf to play its part in the green industrial revolution.

To find out how you can make a difference to your golf club AND your planet, call GreenClub today on 0800 999 1904 or email info@greenclub.energy

greenclub.energy

F E AT U R E

THE GREAT REBALANCING ACT VISITORS MEMBERS

Achieving a balance between visitor and members should be much easier to achieve with a well-considered pricing model that works for the independent golfer and members alike. Chris Knight of The Revenue Club discusses how to achieve that balance 20

The anticipated surge in demand that UK golf courses are likely to experience when restrictions are lifted offers an excellent opportunity to finally achieve something that most courses have been struggling with for a number of years and got a glimpse of in 2020.

Historically there has been a difficult balance to achieve between what members are paying for their annual subscriptions, and what casual visitors pay for a green fee. The revenue achieved from the members gives the club its financial stability allowing it to plan for the coming year with a relatively dependable income stream. Visitor income is more transient and can be susceptible to large variations due to a number of reasons such as weather, course condition, competitor activity, consistent marketing and many other factors. This makes it more difficult to rely upon which is why so many courses treat it as a bonus if it comes in but increase flexibility around it in their budgets.

The debate has rumbled on for years regarding green fees undervaluing membership. In so many cases clubs may have been in a position where they were offering green fees at a value that meant it may have been cheaper for individuals to pay a green fee each time they play instead of joining, not to mention misaligned member guest fees and the price a flexible member pays per round.

The difficultly has been caused by the oversupply of golf clubs and tee time inventory nationally. This has meant that most venues had to ensure their green fee rates were competitive

March 2021

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www.pga.info

F E AT U R E

in the local area to achieve the level of desired foot fall and income. In what was almost an entirely separate market, these green fee prices had to be considered in isolation from the membership fees and, although clubs needed to remain competitive, the membership fees were (and still are) priced to cover operating costs. Inevitably, if a club has a shortfall it is the members that are asked to pay more whether it be a levy or subscription increase, not visitors.

However, 2021 and the ongoing challenges of the pandemic brings with it an opportunity due to the considerable shift in market forces. In 2020 clubs who partner with The Revenue Club witnessed demand for visitor tee times triple in the space of seven months and the tee sheets at all courses had unprecedented levels of utilisation.

The market also witnessed some significant shifts in who was looking to play golf: • The number of under 35’s playing golf last summer increased by 48% and now forms 37% of the visitor golf market.

• The biggest increase of any sector was the under 25s which more than tripled in size, increasing from 3% to 10% of the overall market.

• Although there was an overall increase in each age range, the proportion of the older market of 55+ reduced from 36% to 25%.

• The changes were fairly uniform across the UK. The only significant difference across the regions was the 7% increase

The PGA Professional

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in 25-34 age range in the Midlands which was bigger than the rest of the UK. There are a number of different reasons for these changes: • Golf provided an ideal way to reconnect with friends as it lends itself to social interaction while the pubs were shut and other sports were off limits.

which will enable courses to increase their visitor rates without the fear of losing out.

This happened to a certain extent in 2020 with an average increase of £3 in green fees to £23 nationally (Source REPORTS.GOLF) and there is likely to be scope for a further rise this summer. At this point is worth noting that measuring the average green fee price without considering the time and day of play can be a red herring, which makes the

The biggest increase of any sector was the under 25s which more than tripled in size, increasing from 3% to 10% of the overall market.

• More people had flexible working arrangements and were working from home – the number of rounds played after work during the week increased considerably which suggests that in the absence of a commute, people had more time to pop out for a twilight round.

• Furlough schemes meant that some people had plenty of spare time in the summer and golf would have been an ideal way to fill it.

• Alongside tennis, golf was the first sport to return after the first lockdown and is widely considered to be safe to play.

Given that Covid restrictions are likely to be similar this summer, golf courses can anticipate similar levels of demand and suddenly there is a scarcity of tee times

#makinggolfhappen

aforementioned price increase all the more impressive as generally speaking visitor tee times were more off peak than the previous year due to increased member play.

There are 3 key areas a golf club should focus on to make the most of the aforementioned ‘perfect storm’: Tee Sheet & Website Analysis – interrogate the tee sheet, historical performance and the golf club’s online presence. Once this is complete, you will be able to create a detailed strategy to provide value to all customer types from member through to the golfer booking via third party website across every available tee time. To do this you can consider lead time, availably and price.

21

F E AT U R E

A YEAR IN GREEN FEES This data is the average from sales at 120 golf courses across the UK DIRECT BOOKINGS

2019

60%

2020

85%

85% of business booked direct.

Proportionally less golfers booked through a 3rd party than in 2019

GROUP SIZE

2019

2.31

2020

2.22

Average group size reduced to 2.22 as a result of the two ball limitations at key times in the season

WEB TRAFFIC

2019

492

2020

1505

Visitors demand tripled evidenced by an increase in the monthly average number of golfers looking at the booking engine

ONLINE SALES

2019

£21K

2020

£71K

Average online sales totalled £71,331 an increase of 234% on 2019

BOOKING VALUE

2019

2020

£45

£52

Average booking value rose by £6.54 due to higher prices and a greater proportion of summer sales

GREEN FEE

2019

£20

2020

£23

Average green fee increased by £3.65 per person due to the higher demand which allowed courses to increase rates

CONVERSION

2019

6.01%

2020

7.82%

Despite increase in member play conversion of the lookers to bookers increased by 29%

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March 2021

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www.pga.info

F E AT U R E Dynamic Pricing & Marketing – at The Revenue Club we analyse the tee sheet on a weekly basis considering all the parameters that could influence a golfer to book a tee time at your course. This ranges across a number of factors including weather, course condition, lead time, historical data, demand (web traffic)… the list goes on. We then make pricing adjustments in order to maximise returns.

Once this change has been made, shout about it via email, text, word of mouth, social media… whatever you can. There is no point in changing the price without ensuring golfers see the price change.

Reporting – arguably the most important of the 3 is reporting on the activity you have undertaken and the results it has driven. At The Revenue Club we take data seriously and have built our own reporting system to allow for easy analysis The market conditions in 2021 will allow golf course operators to have more confidence in their membership offering, knowing that it presents better value to the regular golfer than the green fee option, particularly when packaged alongside all of the other benefits of club membership. That said, golfers will be looking for the best deal so it is important that the clubs value proposition is aligned across full membership, flexible membership, member guest fees, open competition fees, online and offline green fees.

Access to peak times has become the sole domain of members in many places and if golfers want to play at those times, they must now join, or pay a premium if they can find the availability. This in particular has shifted over the past 25 years as more clubs opened their tee sheets to visitors more of the time.

Visitors will continue to be a core part of the business mix and it is important to keep a large customer base that will generate revenue where there is spare capacity and provide a pool of future members.

The great news for the industry is that the tide has turned allowing managers, secretaries and committees to have confidence that green fees no longer need jeopardise their membership model.

Achieving a balance between visitor and members should be much easier to achieve with a well-considered pricing model that works for the independent golfer and members alike.

The PGA Professional

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Put Your Golf Club Directly In Front Of Golfers Whilst golf clubs are taking as many direct bookings as possible, there is still demand for so-called aggregator platforms. These are typically used by non-member golfers when looking for available tee times and deals in their local area. Until recently there has one been one dominant player in the marketplace but over the last 12 months, more and more aggregators have been springing up.

GoPlayGolf is one new option and has taken a significantly different approach to the role of the aggregator platform.

It is aiming to fill the gap in golf club marketing and focus on giving golf clubs more exposure and reach. Unlike barter sites, or commission only sites, GoPlayGolf goes beyond selling times and is also focussed on membership, societies and ultimately events.

The platform offers golf clubs the opportunity to sell tee times at the lowest commission rate in the market just 12%, but additionally a fully managed marketing package for all other areas of their business:• Online page listings for all categories • Enquiry forms for society and membership sales • Venue marketing • Inclusion within local marketing campaigns for societies, membership and tee times

Contact Details: Chris Knight chris@therevenueclub.co.uk 07468 564 555

#makinggolfhappen

• Clubs receive data of all customers • The GPG mobile rewards and check in app supports PGA Professionals in collecting data of all visitors • One simple annual fee • Backed by The PGA Go Play Golf Founder Jane Carter said: “ We are offering the modern golfer a more engaging and informative way to browse local golf courses, driving choice, engagement but course controlled price management and accessibility. We believe this will be especially relevant as golf reopens and there is increased demand versus availability for visitor tee times.

“After COVID-19, the industry has a real chance to start educating the customer to buy on experience and value for money rather than price. Once having engaged with the club- and collected their data- there will be opportunities to upsell customers to more golf, a society booking or even membership We aim to be the golf club’s marketing partner, not their competition.”

GoPlayGolf marketing will be focussed locally around the larger population areas and will roll out first in the North West in the Spring.

For further details go to https:// joingoplaygolf.co.uk/or contact jane. carter@onegolfnetwork.co.uk. Mobile 07918 636841

Rob Corcoran rob@therevenueclub.co.uk 07737 335908 www.therevenueclub.co.uk

23

I N T E R NAT I O NA L

INTERNATIONAL MANAGEMENT

MANAGING A GOLF FACILITY OVERSEAS Peter Downie What does it take to manage a golf facility outside the UK and Ireland?

What inspires a PGA Member to take on such a role and what qualities are needed for success?

PGA Professional speaks to Peter Downie (Hong Kong) Christine Burton (Australia) and Thomas Rourke (United Arab Emirates) about how they landed general manager roles overseas, and what qualities they bring to the job.

41 PGA Members based A total of

internationally have re-categorised as a

‘PGA Manager’.

24

Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club Hong Kong “I always wanted to work in Asia as I had been on vacation there many times and visited Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club in 1998 when they hosted an Asian Tour Championship event. Three years later I heard that they were looking for a Director of Golf to help re-develop the golf course and clubhouse. These opportunities come along once in a lifetime and I knew I had to throw my name into the hat - the rest is history.

“I spent five great years as Director of Golf before I was headhunted in 2007 by the Sentosa Development Corporation who wanted me to carry out the same role at Sentosa Golf Club, Singapore, as their general manager. I spent seven wonderful years re-developing the Serapong course, but I returned to Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club in 2014 as their general manager.

“I oversee five areas of the business with 300 staff. My key KPIs are: Membership satisfaction, course/facility conditioning/ upgrades, budgets, staff development, employee turnover and corporate social responsibility.

“You’ll need to prove that you’re a team player but also have the ability to manage and delegate to others and take on responsibility. This is being able to set out very clearly what the organisation wants to achieve. It’s about being clear, concise and focused; being able to tailor your message for the audience and always listening to the views of others.

“More than 40 years in the golf business, 24 years as a general manager with a proven track record of not only being able to produce a phenomenal product, but also being a coach and mentor to any staff member who wants to join me on a journey to reach their potential. I believe you have to surround yourself with the best possible team you can afford and have the courage and zero fear in hiring someone better than yourself for a specific role.”

March 2021

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www.pga.info

I N T E R NAT I O NA L

Christine Burton

Thomas Rourke

North Haven Golf Club - Australia

Els Club – United Arab Emirates

“I left school at 17 and went to work for my father who was the head professional at The Grange Golf Club, Adelaide. I fell in love with the game and turned professional in 1990.

I played on both the European and Australian Tours in the early 1990’s. As hard as I tried in Australia, as a woman, I just wasn’t going to get a head professional job, so when my father retired in 2001, I moved our family to the UK. “I was teaching professional for four years at Harpenden Common Golf Club before landing my first head professional role at Trefloyne Golf Club in Wales. When we decided to move back to Australia, we did assess our best options for where to live and work, but the draw of family in Adelaide won out. I became the Director of Golf for a company that ran five public golf courses around Adelaide, before taking over the leasehold of North Haven Golf Club in 2016.

“My dream has always been to buy a golf course, but opportunities and money were going to limit that. When the leasehold at North Haven Golf Course came up for renewal, Graham and I decided to give it a go. We secured a five-year lease which has just been renewed for a further five years. We run the course as a family business with both my son, Nick and daughter, Kristalle (also a golf professional) working with us.

It is a 9-hole public golf course with a small club membership and full clubhouse, with bar facility and pro shop.

“My role involves the day-to-day running of the pro shop and golf operational duties, including selling green fees and memberships, teaching and developing golf and custom fitting. It also involves club equipment repairs, managing a small cart fleet and hire equipment, managing all competition and handicapping, whilst making a few coffees and selling beer. Then there is the clubhouse where I cook, clean and serve drinks whilst discussing patron’s rounds. If Graham needs an extra pair of hands on the course, I could find myself cutting greens or watering, laying new turf, gardening or emptying bins. I always tell people that if you took a general manager, a PGA Professional, a greenkeeper, a secretary, a cook and a cleaner, rolled them it to one, you have my job.

You name it, I do it.

“In order to be a successful general manager overseas, you need to be prepared for anything and welcome the culture and difference another country offers. Adapt what you know and never stop learning. Golf may be played the same everywhere in the world, but the people are different.

How we teach them and interact with them will be different everywhere so do not get stuck in your thinking or ways. Break out of the ordinary and prove you have the ability to create something special.

“The qualities you need to achieve are patience, knowledge and experience. A smile, honesty and integrity. A constant ability to look at what can be improved, adapted and developed to generate more revenue and improve my members and players experience. Oh, and lots of hard work.”

“My PGA career started at The Belfry from 2002 until 2005 under the experienced and supportive Simon Wordsworth.

The role covered all aspects of resort management which gave me a very rounded experience in all aspects of resort hospitality management. After successfully completing the PGA Diploma in 2004, I secured a position in Dubai in August 2005 which started as a teaching role and transitioned into a Golf Operations Manager position. After several very enjoyable years working for Dubai Golf at Nad Al Sheba Golf Club and Emirates Golf Club, I decided to take on an opportunity to gain experience with a pre-opening and grand opening of a new golf course project in Saudi Arabia (KAUST). My next role was as Director of Golf at the award-winning Yas Links Golf Course in Abu Dhabi and after two years I moved to join Troon Golf at The Track, Meydan Golf and then onto The Els Club in Dubai Sports City as General Manager.

“When leaving Yas Links in 2012 to join Troon Golf it was all part of a long-term plan. I had gained a wealth of experience working for different golf organisations, however to grow I had needed to move between different organisations and there was an element of starting again each time. When I joined The Track, Meydan Golf I became part of a much bigger team with an international head office, general managers who would share best practices and who had overcome similar dayto-day challenges who you could learn from. The opportunity was to do my very best at The Track, Meydan Golf and when the time was right, and I had proven myself to move onto an even bigger opportunity within Troon Golf. I was successful in achieving this in July 2020 becoming the General Manager of The Els Club Dubai.

“My role is to create extraordinary guest and member experiences by delivering superior service, amenities and playing surfaces, whilst achieving this to provide a profitable revenue result to the owners. I bring a wealth of experience to my role as General Manager of The Els Club after working in the Middle East more than 15 years in multiple management positions at world-class facilities. I focus on the guest journey/ experience and commercial aspects of the facility. Developing business opportunities for expansion, creating new revenue and profit lines, improvements to drive member and guest satisfaction, review all aspects of the profitability of each area of the business and to mentor, guide and motivate the team to grow and develop them in their careers.

“The number one aspect when asking most owners would be to be able to run a golf facility as a commercial business making a profit. The costs of running and maintaining a golf course in this part of the world with the challenging climate is considerable and you need to know your numbers, motivate the team and be a strong communicator to senior management and the team. Build a positive culture and experience that members, daily fee guests and the associates enjoy being part of every day.”

The PGA Professional

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#makinggolfhappen

25

2020 VISION

‘PEOPLE JUST

NEED TO BE

AWARE OF HOW EASY IT IS’ Hundreds of PGA Members have already chosen to specialise in one of the new PGA categories. We speak to five Members about their new specialisms, the application process and why others should consider the same path

M

ore than 500 Members have taken the option to change their specialism following the launch of The PGA’s 2020 Vision.

This huge uptake of the new categories is a glowing endorsement of the changes brought in by the 2020 Vision campaign.

The extensive Member study conducted back in 2017 has been a key driver behind the Association’s 2020 Vision. You told The PGA that you wanted to be able to specialise, but just as importantly, you wanted the industry to understand what that speciality actually meant.

The PGA unveiled a very significant change to its existing Membership structure, with

26

one traditional category (PGA Professional) evolving into three clearly defined categories – PGA Professional, PGA Coach and PGA Manager – that will enable Members to more easily demonstrate their expertise and value.

Moving from one general category to three specialist categories enables Members to promote themselves as specialists, differentiate themselves from their peers and elevate themselves further by working towards achieving Advanced, Specialist and Master status.

We caught up with five PGA Members who have made the decision to specialise in one of the new categories to chat to them about the process.

March 2021

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www.pga.info

2020 VISION CASE STUDY: Becoming a PGA Manager MATT SANDERCOCK Club: Mount Juliet Estate Region: Republic of Ireland Role: Director of Golf

What does it mean to be recognised as a PGA Manager?

I was an Advanced Professional and then I was made a Fellow Professional around December time. It made sense for to me to re-categorise as a Specialist Professional. I am now in the Senior Manager category which, for me, made a lot more sense because I don’t do the coaching element as much as I used to. I think it is important as well that you can change back.

I think quite a few people are very sceptical. The ones I have spoken to are afraid to become a Coach and then they are stuck as a Coach. I think once people

realise that you can change back if your circumstances change then I think it will appeal as an option.

What was the process like to convert?

It was very easy. It’s just online; a few clicks of a button, answer the questions regarding what your current job is and what you do. It wasn’t a great deal of hardship to do anything. People just need to be kind of aware of how easy it is. You just have to prove that you are now doing the managing role as opposed to just the coaching role, or vice versa.

What advice would you give to your fellow PGA Members who maybe haven’t engaged with the categories?

The main one for me would be to choose what direction you want to go and actually go with it. Give yourself time. The fact that you can change back means there’s no harm done if you do categorise and realise you don’t like it in two years or a year.

You don’t necessarily have to say, ‘I’m going to be a Coach and only a Coach’. The more you think outside the box of what the future might hold for you, the more streamlined you can make your training.

CASE STUDY: Becoming a PGA Coach SARAH BENNETT Club: Three Rivers Golf and Country Club Region: Essex Role: PGA Head Teaching Professional

What does it mean to be recognised as a PGA Coach?

I think it’s going to help my own mindset. I can now think, ‘Right this is something that I can really advance, put a lot of time and effort into’. Instead of thinking, ‘Well, maybe I should be doing a little bit of that or something else’.

For me going forward, it’s important if you want to progress your career. We can market it out to the industry that this particular Member is a specialist in that field and they’re really putting their hard work into being as good as they can be.

I think the general public can look and go, ‘Yep, that person or

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that PGA Professional is a Coach and still has a PGA name’, which is huge. I think we can really start to leverage the good work that our Members do. This is really specific and I like it.

What was the process like to convert?

It was very straightforward. I think all along the process has been very clear. It’s very well structured and laid out.

What advice would you give to fellow PGA Members who have not yet engaged with the new categories?

I think there are some people who

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are at a cross paths. Some may work in retail and some might do a little bit of coaching. I think it’s difficult and I think they need to think about it. And I absolutely would do.

It could be awkward for some because they might have contracts with X number of hours in the shop and they might do minimal coaching.

In that regard, I would just say maybe keep the PGA Professional and then when you’re obviously really sure of what you want then they can go down that route. But no, I like it. It’s brilliant.

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2020 VISION CASE STUDY: Becoming a PGA Manager ANDREW MINTY Club: Langland Bay Region: Wales Role: Director of Golf

What does it mean to be recognised as a PGA Manager?

When it first came out, I thought that because each PGA Member had worked hard to gain the classification that I wanted to be well rounded and stay as a full PGA Professional.

But then looking into the categories, I do predominantly specialise in management. It’s taking nothing away from what each PGA Member has achieved in the past, but it’s what you’re actually doing now.

What was the process like to convert?

It was straightforward. The

application process was just saying what you’ve done, what you’re currently doing and your job role is.

When you were putting it down on paper, it was obvious to anyone that my role is solely management.

What advice would you give to those people who maybe haven’t engaged with the new categories?

Don’t do what I did initially and think, ‘I’m definitely staying as a PGA Pro because that’s what I started off as and that’s what I know’. Because when you look at the different classifications

and you then correlate your job description by it, it’s pretty obvious which one you would fall into.

I definitely think it’s better to specialise in that category. It’s not saying that you don’t do any of the other attributes that a PGA Pro does.

As far as I’m concerned, 20 per cent of my role is coaching and 80 per cent is management, which I think will be the same for a few the other PGA Pros as well.

It’s a no-brainer to get yourself classified in whichever one you feel your strength is in.

CASE STUDY: Becoming a PGA Coach KAT CHASZCZEWSKI Club: Hurtmore Region: Surrey Role: Head Teaching Professional

What does it mean to be recognised as a PGA Coach?

It’s an acknowledgement of all the hard work, money, time and effort I’ve put in to developing my knowledge and skills to specialise in coaching. It feels special and I am delighted and particularly proud to have received PGA Specialist Coach status.

What was the process like to convert?

It was quick and easy. I literally just answered a few questions online, for example, ‘How many hours do you coach?’. I received confirmation of my new category straight away.

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How do you think it’ll help your career to develop?

The term ‘Golf Professional’ is so broad and has different connotations, so having the specialisations of Coach, Manager and Professional, with education and time, will make it clearer and easier for prospective employers to identify what is right for their business.

As a PGA Specialist Coach, I hope that highlights I am someone who has invested in myself; that I’m committed to improving my craft and have sought out opportunities to help me in that endeavour.

What advice would you give to those people who maybe haven’t engaged with the new categories?

Obviously they need to be clear about where their skills and passion lies. If we can identify with one particular specialisation, that strengthens the PGA brand as a whole.

If we, as PGA Professionals, can clarify our role in an industry that is vast, it should help secure our future, as recruiters will also need to be clear about who they are seeking, and ultimately then Professionals will find the most suitable positions at the right time in their careers.

March 2021

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2020 VISION CASE STUDY: Becoming a PGA Coach AMY MILLWARD Club: Claude Harmon Performance Golf Academy Region: Dubai Role: Teaching Professional What does it mean to be recognised as a PGA Coach?

It’s good to have the categories separated because it shows what speciality you’ve gone off into. It was lovely to have the title of PGA Professional, but it’s quite broad.

The new categories are great if people are looking for a certain role and it’s more distinctive as to which way you can go and what the role is actually going to entail going forward. It’s nice to have a title that suits your job properly.

What was the process like to convert?

It was really easy. I just had a link come from one of the PGA

LINKED IN

emails, which then gave some drop-down options to fill out. The whole process was 10 minutes maximum, if that. It was so simple and easy to complete.

How do you think it’ll help your career to develop?

It’s nice to have that category of being defined as a Coach. I am now aiming to become that Advanced or Specialist Coach. It shows that progression a little bit more. We did have that before but it’s showing that you’re more specialist in a certain area now as opposed to that broadness that we had before.

CHOOSING YOUR SPECIALISM By holding a membership category that represents your individual career, specialism and focus – and having a tailored CPD programme to support that focus – Members will derive a clear benefit from a framework that proves their value to the industry, as well as the new logos that demonstrate their expertise.

Let us take a closer look at the three categories…

PGA Professional This category sees the existing membership maintained as the foundation membership with core qualifications and principles remaining unchanged. You will automatically remain in the PGA Professional category.

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

PGA Manager Recognising that 25 per cent of our members hold management responsibilities, this category is for qualified PGA Professionals working in management positions or who wish to specialise in management roles across all sectors of the industry.

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What advice would you give to your fellow PGA Members who maybe haven’t engaged with the categories?

I would say double check your emails to find the link or visit the PGA website. It is a really simple process that doesn’t take long at all.

Within 10 minutes, I’m pretty sure I got a link straight back saying, ‘These are your new logos to use’. So it is a really easy process.

Don’t be put it off because it’s like one of those jobs at the bottom of the list that you think is going to take forever. Just get it done and you’ll be all up to speed

HOW TO APPLY If you want to be recognised as a PGA Coach you apply through The PGA’s website. You will have to demonstrate that you are regularly coaching and then you will be allocated the use of the PGA Coach brand. Similarly, if you are looking to be recognised as a PGA Manager you will need to complete an online application that demonstrates six months’ experience working in a management role. Successful applicants will then be able to use the PGA Manager brand.

Those that have completed the PGA Applied Golf Management Studies degree and turned Professional will automatically be able to access this PGA Manager speciality. You will automatically remain in the PGA Professional category unless you request to change your specialism.

Visit the Members’ Area at pga.info for more information and to request to change your specialism.

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March 2021

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YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST NEW HYBRIDS

RETAIL

TO THE RESCUE!

AW21 APPAREL New launches from FootJoy, Ping & Callaway STOCKING UP

Are you ready for retail’s return?

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TRADE TALK Srixon Sports in the spotlight

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TRADE ECCO BIOM H4 The BIOM H4 features Ecco’s new BIOM 2.0 last, which enables the foot to move more naturally. The outsole boasts three different sections to provide a combination of traction and rotational support, while a coloured TPU element wraps around the midsole to increase stability. The premium leather uppers are 100% waterproof and feature breathable Gore-Tex, while a removable insole provides extra cushioning, plus the option of extra width when removed. It is offered four colours for men (black, white, silver grey and white/concrete), and four for women (white, limestone, hibiscus and white/silver grey).

RRP £160

Wilson Tour Grind wedge Designed for low handicappers looking for increased touch and feel around the greens, the Tour Grind wedge is ideal for opening up the clubface for those delicate short-range shots from tight lies.

Available in 56, 58 and 60-degree lofts, the head is forged from soft carbon steel for maximum feedback, while machine-engraved score lines in the milled face create a higher density pattern for maximum spin and control.

RRP: £109

LAUNCHPAD Your guide to the latest gear releases Titleist TSi4 driver The TSi4 is aimed at golfers seeking ultra-low spin with the same distance gains that have made the TSi2 and TSi3 drivers the most played models on the PGA Tour. The centre of gravity is the lowest in the TSi range and it is also the most forward, delivering less dynamic loft and less spin at impact. A higher MOI also contributes to a higher launch and overall trajectory. With a head volume of 430cc, it is also the most workable of the TSi drivers.

Boasting a thin, titanium face that launches the ball with added speed, improved aerodynamics reduce drag by 6% compared to the previous TS4 driver, allowing faster clubhead speed for the same effort. It is offered in 8°, 9°, 10° lofts, while a SureFit hosel enables 16 independent loft/lie settings, plus headweight adjustability in 2g increments (-4g to 4g), to create consistent ball flight through precision fitting.

RRP £519

Srixon ZX4 Irons The ZX4 irons boast a fully hollow, face-forged design that brings an extra level of forgiveness to Srixon’s irons range, while maintaining the brand’s signature look and forged feel. Designed using artificial intelligence, a new variable thickness steel face flexes at impact for more distance and ensures that shots that don’t find the middle of the clubface will still travel long and straight, while high-density tungsten in the long and mid irons lowers the centre of gravity and delivers a high launch profile. A new Tour VT Sole provides smoother turf interaction, while heel and toe notches enhance iron workability without sacrificing forgiveness.

RRP £899/£999 (st/gr) for a 6-club set (4-SW).

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March 2021

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TRADE TaylorMade TP5 balls The latest versions TaylorMade’s Tour-level balls feature a new dual-radius shaped dimple design which is claimed to improve aerodynamics for reduced drag and greater carry distance. The TP5x has a slightly softer urethane cover than the previous version which better grips the grooves on a wedge for increased spin around the greens with lower launch, while the TP5 boasts a larger, more reactive core that delivers more ball speed, while retaining the same feel and spin characteristics as the 2019 version.

TP5 still provides a softer feel, increased greenside spin and a lower launch in comparison to TP5x, which has a firmer feel and is faster, longer and higher launching on iron shots. Offered in white, yellow and Pix versions, it has an RRP of £49.99 for 12.

FootJoy Premiere Series shoes

Scotty Cameron Phantom X putters

FJ’s new Premiere Series is a 21st century redesign of a modern classic golf shoe for men and women. Designed in collaboration with several PGA Tour players, the range features three distinct upper designs – Tarlow, Package and Flint – each of which are named after influential figures in FootJoy’s history and are made from premium leathers and ultra-lightweight materials, as well as boasting exquisite detailing.

The Tarlow is a classic cap toe design, complemented by a croc print in the heel, cap toe and eyestay; the Packard features a pebble grain leather and a calfskin croc print accent in the saddle area; while the spikeless Flint shoe features a smooth ChromoSkin leather upper, highlighted by embossed detailing on the saddle area.

Inside, premium lambskin linings and a new fitbed provide exceptional comfort, while all-new VersaTrax+ outsole provides grip for any lie or angle.

Offered in a choice of laced and BOA closures, and a variety of colours, including black, white, white/navy and navy/ red, the Premiere Series will also be available for personalisation through the MyJoys programme.

Titleist’s range of Phantom X putters comprises four new models ­– X 5, 5.5, 11 and 11.5. All of them combine a stainless steel face with an aluminium sole anf flange section in a range of compact wingback mallet shapes with differing neck configurations. The X 5 and X 5.5 are updates of pre-existing mid-mallets and include a small slant neck that allows it to play more like a blade, while the X 11 and X 11.5 are allnew wingback mallets which were developed based on tour players’ requests for a slightly smaller setup than the previously launched X 12. The X 11 has a mid-bend shaft to minimise face rotation during the stroke and customisable stainless steel sole weights, while the X 11.5 has a lowbend shaft to enhances toe flow. RRP £389

RRPs: £159.99 (Flint/Packard), £169.99 (Tarlow)

Odyssey Ten putters The redesigned range of Ten putters features a sleeker and more forgiving head design and offers a wider choice of models to help improve alignment, with the 2-Ball Ten, 2-Ball Ten Triple Track, Lined Ten, Ten Triple Track and 2-Ball Lined Ten. An updated multi-material Stroke Lab shaft is lighter, stiffer and designed to be more stable to promote better tempo and more consistency in the stroke, while a microhinge insert gets the ball rolling more quickly, resulting in more consistent speed and distance control.

RRP £299

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T R A D E TA L K

SEAMLESS SUPPORT

Lionel Caron, Chief Sales & Marketing officer at Srixon Sports Europe, talks about how the Cleveland, XXI0 and Srixon brands have been faring during the pandemic and what new products pros should be looking out for in 2021

The pandemic has obviously been difficult for a lot of golf businesses, but how has it impacted on Srixon Sports Europe’s operations in the UK and Europe?

Obviously, the last year or so has been very challenging for everyone, but our priority is to keep supporting our customers as much as we can. When the first lockdown was put in place, we decided to keep our entire business actively working. Whilst our sales team was not able to travel, everyone still worked from home so that we were there for any enquiries from our retailers. I know it has been greatly appreciated by all our customers who were able to talk to our customer service teams and regional sales reps.

As some regions in Europe were not under lockdown, we also kept our logistic platforms and workshop open to continue delivering goods to the different European countries we cover. The use of the furlough scheme has been kept to a minimum thanks to our parent company in Japan, as it was very important for us to keep supporting our clients in the UK and Europe.

How have you been supporting your key retail accounts during this time?

We have been working very closely with all our customers, with regular communication to manage stock flow, the usual after-sales service or just being there for general support through what has been, and continues to be, a difficult time. We set up home offices for all office and field-based staff, so it looked as seamless as possible. We were all contactable by phone, email or Microsoft Teams. It was key to remain as flexible as possible, during and after, the various lockdowns.

What are the main issues you’re having to deal with concerning your on-course retailers?

With each lockdown the challenges

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have been very varied. Our whole way of operating changed in a few days and we had to adapt very quickly as situations developed in each region throughout the year, often with little notice or consistency.

Overall, I think uncertainty is the biggest challenge we all face, but I’m very proud of the fact that our team remained flexible and supportive with our clients through these unprecedented times.

What have on-course sales been like over the past four trading quarters compared to previous years?

Overall, Srixon has had increased sales versus previous years by more than 15% in the UK and Ireland, with great support from on-course retailers who wanted to reward Srixon for the support offered during the lockdown. We’re very grateful to them for this.

Have the timings of future product launches been changed in light of the pandemic?

No, we haven’t changed our product launch agenda; all our products have a two-year life cycle and keeping this schedule is very important to us.

What are the key products that retailers should be looking out for from your brands in 2021?

If we look at it brand by brand, I would say for Cleveland, the RTX ZipCore wedge launched in September, which is the best weapon for all golfers to improve their short game.

For Srixon, the ZX line also launched in September, and has already been adopted by most of our Tour pros on the different Tours. It will be a fantastic discovery for golfers looking at attractive and high performing clubs. For balls, the

Open Champion Shane Lowry

launch of the Z-Star and Z-Star XV to come later this month, will be an important event for the industry, if the buzz created since it was launched to the media is anything to go by.

For XXIO, the XXIO Eleven line, which will be launched to a selective distribution channel in the UK in 2021, will be an amazing product for lower swing speed golfers looking for longer distance and forgiveness.

Given the significant increase in golf club memberships over the past 12 months, weighed against the on/off nature of retail, what is your outlook for your brands and the wider golf industry going forward?

As you know, Srixon, Cleveland and XXIO are challenger brands in the UK, whilst having larger market share in Europe, so we believe the best is yet to come in the UK. Our product portfolio is unique and extremely high quality. Our distribution strategy is to encourage a long-term B2B business with on-course retailers; our trading conditions offer fantastic margin opportunities compared to our competition and we keep investing in our structure in the UK to improve the service for our clients. Everything is in place to keep growing our business in the years to come.

March 2021

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TRADE NEWS SkyCaddie welcomes PGA of America’s decision to allow DMDs for its Major championships SkyCaddie has welcomed the news that the PGA of America is to allow GPS units and laser rangefinders to be used in its three flagship annual tournaments in 2021 in order to speed up play.

This means that the PGA Championship being held at Kiawah Island in May will be the first men’s Major professional tournament in history to allow competitors to use a SkyCaddie in competition. The announcement also covers the Senior PGA Championship and the Women’s PGA Championship, which are being held in May and June respectively.

In Europe, SkyCaddie devices are already used by over 50% of the field on the over-50s Legends Tour, where competitors benefit from SkyCaddie course data, including yardages to the day’s pin positions. Other high-profile tours in Europe are expected to follow suit in using SkyCaddie pin distance information in their 2021 events, and SkyCaddie is already working with The PGA to supply pin sheet information for all of its national tournaments in 2021.

Charles Hine, The PGA’s Head of National Tournaments, said: “We allow the use of DMDs across PGA events and have seen the benefits both from a tournament organiser’s and players’ point of view. We are introducing SkyCaddie technology at all of our national tournaments in 2021, and we also plan to roll this out to all of our regional events in the next phase, and ultimately to share the benefits across the entire PGA tournament schedule.”

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Over 6,500 Pros log on to virtual PGA Show The 2021 PGA Merchandise Show, which shifted to an online event due to the pandemic, has been hailed a success, with organisers recording 11,000 virtual attendees from 78 countries, including over 6,500 PGA Professionals, connecting online to source thousands of products from nearly 400 participating golf brands.

PGA Professionals, golf buyers and industry professionals were able to take part in 192 live and on-demand exhibitor, industry and education presentations. In total, virtual presentations hosted nearly 25,000 participants, with numerous single presentations exceeding 400 participants. The virtual platform facilitated nearly 5,000 attendee-exhibitor meetings and logged nearly 300,000 interactions, views and connections by attendees.

Most PGA Show programming will remain available on demand for an extended period of time, and exhibitor showrooms will remain open on an ongoing basis to help exhibiting companies and buyers continue to connect, have meetings, discover new products and drive commerce throughout 2021.

“PGA Show Week has always been about providing new resources for PGA Professionals to advance the game in their communities and for the golf industry to collaborate in enhancing the overall golf experience,” said PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh. “We are grateful for the industry participation and for how well the virtual PGA Merchandise Show has gone this year. That being said, we can’t wait to bring the industry back together in person in 2022, where we can leverage the innovations and learnings from 2021. The importance of human connections and relationships are fundamental to our business and our golf community.”

A schedule of presentations and educational sessions held during the show are available online by visiting www.virtual.pgashow.com.

The next PGA Merchandise Show has been scheduled for January 25-28, 2022, back at its usual venue in Orlando, Florida.

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TRADE NEWS

Arccos adds ‘Strokes Gained’ stats Shot data tracking specialist Arccos has issued a series of improvements to its products and platforms that will enable golfers to dive deeper into their performances gathered by their built-in club sensors which are now offered as standard with many of the leading equipment brands, including PING, TaylorMade and Cobra.

Enhancements include a new ‘Strokes Gained’ analytics into the dashboard to help players, coaches and fitters more easily identify and understand strengths and weaknesses across all game facets.

Other enhancements include ‘Smart Distance Club Averages’ which leverages new algorithms that account for recovery

shots and terrain, while also supporting ‘what if’ views for weather and elevation impacts across individual clubs; while the Caddie Team Programme offered customised training to suit the unique needs of teams, while providing coaches with the ability to access and analyse their players’ on-course data.

An ‘Enhanced Putting Data’ feature combines in-app and on-wearable hole location settings to deliver more data regarding a player’s short game performance by supporting the ability to mark second and third putt locations.

An update for Apple Watch owners will also enable players to use Arccos to record their on-course shot data without the need to carry their smartphone.

Get your coaching back on track with Pin Mapping Pin Mapping is giving PGA Professionals the opportunity to kickstart their coaching businesses when golfers return after lockdown with its innovative sample pack. The pack contains three products designed to improve interaction with clients and create additional coaching opportunities and hardware sales.

The exclusive pack includes the Stats Card Pro, which gives feedback on your client’s performance to help identify the strengths and weaknesses in their game.

The card also includes a ‘preparation’ and ‘mental process’ performance tracker to help introduce a different dynamic to your coaching.

Also included is the Performance Planner, which enables clients to record information on their coaching session notes and round statistics, as well as include diagrams for each hole on their home course. This may include anything from slope-adjusted yardages and green breaks to common pin positions and course strategy. Completing the pack is a Distance Gapping Card, which provides a structured way to record gapping information and utilise it on the golf course.

Designed to add value to gapping sessions, it could also lead to additional hardware sales and range usage, as well as improving your client’s scoring by acting as a caddy in their pocket.

The PGA Pro Sample Pack contains 75 Stats Card Pros, 4 Performance Planners and 25 Distance Gapping Cards for £34.99, representing a saving of 33% on the standard price.

For more details, or to place an order, email Justin Long at info@pinmapping.co.uk.

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TRADE NEWS

APPOINTMENTS SRIXON APPOINTS NEW SALES REP FOR IRELAND Srixon has appointed Darren Walsh as its new regional sales representative for Ireland. From County Wexford, Walsh brings with him over 13 years’ experience working within the golf industry. He started playing golf at Wexford Golf Club and from there completed his PGA training in 2012. As well as qualified coach and custom fitter, he has played in many regional PGA events and for the past two years has developed his knowledge and expertise in custom fitting, working for Titleist in Ireland.

Speaking about his new position, Walsh said: “I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to further my career in sales and to represent the Srixon, Cleveland and XXIO brands in Ireland. I’m really looking forward to getting started and working with such a fantastic team. Once Covid restrictions allow, I can’t wait to get back on the road meeting both new and familiar faces and showcasing our magnificent product range.”

To contact Darren, email darren.walsh@srixon.co.uk or call 07711 761348.

Titleist teams up with Ryder Cup Europe and Ladies European Tour Titleist is to supply the European Ryder Cup team with tour bags for all 12 players for the biennial contest against Team USA, which gets under way at Whistling Straits in September. In an agreement that will see the manufacturer work with the European side through the next matches, up to and including at Bethpage Black in 2025, it will place Titleist’s golf bags at the forefront of the game’s premier team contest. The design will be based on the current Titleist Tour Bag, but sporting Europe’s iconic blue, white and gold colours.

Padraig Harrington, European Ryder Cup captain, said: “As captain, it’s my job to make sure the players have everything they need to play their best across three days of intense competition, and I am confident in the quality this latest team bag provides. Not only that, but it looks great too, so I cannot wait for each player to receive theirs – it is always a special moment.”

In a separate announcement, Titleist has also become an official supplier for the Ladies European Tour for the next three years in an agreement that will see the company provide Pro V1 golf balls to practice ranges at tournaments until 2024.

As part of the arrangement, Titleist will be donating all of each tournament’s ball allocation to national golf federations, local junior golf programmes or to LET tournament host venues.

Get your putting back on a roll!

The quickest way to help your pupils score lower is to improve their putting. The innovative new Explanar putting mat helps teach the art of rolling the ball – the key to enhancing distance control, consistency and accuracy. Revitalise your coaching – and your margins – with the putting mat used by Pete Cowen, #1 Coach in Europe and putting biomechanics expert Dr. Paul Hurrion.

“I designed the Explanar Putting Mat to teach the skill and art of rolling the ball. If you can roll the ball, a great putting stroke comes for free!” – Luther Blacklock, Master PGA Professional

“The indoor surface of the Explanar putting mat gives excellent, consistent and repeatable ball roll. The clear and distinct graphics help improve visualisation and focus your aim.” – Dr Paul Hurrion, Quintic Consultancy

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“The clear, simple markings make it a fantastic training aid for all players. Its eyecatching colours make it very appealing and great fun for the kids. We use it with all our young Academy juniors.” – Pete Cowen, Top Tour Coach in Europe

For more information, go to: www.explanar.com/#putting | 07831 653723 To find out more about our special PGA pro retail offer, contact Luther Blacklock at: luther@explanar.com

38 Explanar 1/2 page February 2021.indd

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P G A M E M B E R R E TA I L FO C U S Stuart Wilson, PGA Head Professional at Duddingston Golf Club near Edinburgh, provides the inside track on his retail operation edit, alter or veto posts before they go live.

This means our social media channels bubble away daily, but still gives us the time to focus on delivering what we are promoting.

How big is your retail space and how many staff work in it?

Our shop measures 12m x 6m with an off-shoot indoor swing studio/simulator. We have a team of three, which usually sees two people on duty most days. However, at the various stages of COVID restrictions we tried to ensure there was only one person in the shop with the other teaching or club fitting.

How has your retail operation been affected the pandemic?

Despite suffering badly in the first lockdown, we went on to recover and record a successful six-month stretch until the second lockdown in November. But this didn’t just happen by coincidence; it was down to a huge amount of graft and commitment from all of my team to ensure we did all we could to make the most of golf’s spike and the lost time.

How have your ordering plans altered due to the pandemic?

I really haven’t waivered much from what I would normally pre-book. I feel it is important not to get too carried away with last year’s boom, the newcomers or returners to the game are unlikely to invest to the levels they did last year, and only time will tell if we get another influx due to other distractions once things re-open. My only hope is the flow of product from suppliers isn’t as disrupted as it was in 2020. Having confidence in that delivery pipeline is what our continued success will rely on.

Do you belong to a buying group, and if so, how has it helped your business, especially over the last year?

I’ve been a member of Foremost since 2007, and I class them more as a business group than a buying group, and that philosophy has never been more evident than their efforts for us these past 12 months. Since lockdown last March, all future invoices were deferred, fees were waived, alterations were made to allow us to continue communicating through our electronic mediums.

Comprehensive COVID signage was created, sanitising stations and sneeze screens were sourced, promotions were renegotiated with

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What percentage of your club sales are custom fitted?

the suppliers, and they negotiated a ‘Take Delivery, Defer Invoice’ option with suppliers so our shops are ready to hit the ground running when retail is given the green light to re-open.

What marketing do you do to attract customers?

All our marketing come from the tools and support provided by Foremost. I’m in the Elite Marketing Programme, which gives me access to digital communications that get delivered directly to a member’s inbox, posted on our social media channels, featured in our weekly e-newsletters, and on our website, external signage of various sizes, in-store monitors and, finally, on the product itself. All the digital versions are linked as a ‘call to action’ so customers can react immediately and not just when they arrive at the in-store. This has been particularly important when access to the club has been restricted.

Do you offer click and collect and sell stock online?

Yes. But again, that is only down to the fact that Foremost has created that facility for us to take advantage of and sell off as our own.

The e-commerce site gives our customers access to a wider range of products than they can find in-store, and the convenience to home-deliver or click & collect, but still guarantees that my stock will be sold first if that is the product requested.

How active are you on social media?

I use Twitter and Facebook, which allow us to promote sound bites of news, information or events. But once again, we have great support from the Foremost here too, as they create and deliver fantastic content on our behalf, while still giving us the autonomy to

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Our mantra is ‘we fit for everything’, so virtually all our club sales come from fittings.

As a club-based retailer, I can’t compete on product range or perceived value, so what we offer is the prospect of a better, more enjoyable golf game, which is summed up with our strapline ‘We Don’t Sell Equipment – We Sell Improvement’. Our custom fitting proposition isn’t just about clubs, it extends to shoes, apparel and balls - pretty much everything that can be fitted, is!

What in-store promotions have been most successful?

Hands down it was our ‘Free Fitting & Free Lesson’ promotion on all club purchases.

What equipment and apparel brands do you stock?

We carry Callaway, PING, Taylormade, Titleist and Wilson clubs, and Galvin Green, Under Armour, Glenmuir and Stuburt apparel.

What were your best-selling products in 2020, and what are you looking forward to this season?

Fortunately, it wasn’t one specific product, but the categories that did particularly well for us were irons sets, shoes and balls. My two personal favourite products were TaylorMade’s SIM driver and Powakaddy’s CT6 compact trolley, but both were so difficult to obtain due to supply issues.

I’m really keen to see how well FootJoy’s new Ultrafit Spikeless shoe sells. It is an exclusive product to Foremost Members that offers incredible value to the customer, but still returns a great margin for the retailer.

What are your future plans for your retail operation?

I’m looking to help grow our fitting facilities, so I have taken over the rental of the club’s internal flat where we are initially creating an indoor putting studio and a sports injury and massage treatment room, and, all going well, we’ll look into setting up a small leisure suite in phase two.

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P R O D U CT FO C U S : H Y B R I D S

HYBRIDS TO THE RESCUE! Today’s hybrids are offered in a wider choice of shapes, sizes, lofts and performance attributes than ever, ensuring that an expert custom-fitting and gapping assessment is essential to help your customers get the most out of these most versatile of clubs

TITLEIST TSi Titleist has launched three new hybrids – TSi1, TSi2 and TSi3 – each of which offer distinct looks and performance, including improved adjustability, sound and feel. The TSi1 is part of the new ultra-lightweight range of TSi1 metalwoods and is the most forgiving hybrid the brand has ever made. Weighing 20g less than a standard hybrid, it features the biggest sole, highest MOI and lowest CG in Titleist’s history, and offers fairway wood performance with high launch and low spin. It is offered 20°, 23°, 26° and 29° lofts.

Titleist describes the ultraforgiving TSi2 as the ‘workhorse’ hybrid, maximising performance by providing high launch and easy distance for players with shallower swings who tend to sweep the ball. The larger profile is designed for players who prefer the look of a fairway metal, and it promises a combination of high

launch and mid/low spin. It features Titleist’s SureFit hosel with 16 independent loft and lie settings, plus headweight adjustability to create a more consistent and optimised ball flight through precision fitting. It is offered in 18°, 21° and 24° lofts.

The TSi3 hybrids boast a more compact head, with a squarer toe and very little face progression, and are designed for players who prefer to strike down on the ball. The sole offer three weight positions – Toe (T), Neutral (N) and Heel (H) – to adjust clubhead CG and fine-tune ball flight. After adjustment, the new track design retracts back into the sole to allow for smooth turf interaction through impact.

They offer mid-launch, precise distance, and iron-like control and are available in 18° and 20° lofts, and also feature a SureFit hosel for added adjustability.

RRP £245

PING G425 Ping promises ‘super-charged distance’ without sacrificing consistency with its new range of G425 hybrids. Among the new design features include Face Wrap technology, which allows the face to flex more, with an increase of 1.5mph ball speed for greater distance and higher launch. The second enhancement is something Ping is calling ‘Spinsistency’, which, in design terms, involves a complex face curvature that modifies the roll profile so that strikes out of the bottom of the face have increased spin, while those hit from the upper part have lower spin. This results in more consistent performance across the face. The G425 boasts a 3.7% higher MOI than the G410 and carries an extra 3.5 yards. There is a wider choice of lofts, with 17°, 19°, 22°, 26°, 30° and 34° models on offer, with the highest loft designed to replace a 7-iron. An adjustable hosel can change loft by +/-1.5° and lie by up to 3° flatter to further dial in ball flight. RRP £249

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P R O D U CT FO C U S : H Y B R I D S CALLAWAY APEX Callaway has two new Apex hybrids, Apex 21 and Apex Pro, both of which feature new Jailbreak Velocity Blades which increase vertical stiffness near the sole, creating more speed low on the face, where players often mishit their hybrids. The blades allow the face cup to flex on the crown to promote better spin rate consistency, and the bars are spread to enhance torsional stiffness, leading to more forgiveness across the entire face.

The Apex 21 (19°, 21°, 24° and 27°) features tungsten weighting to promote high launch and offers more forgiveness on off-centre shots, while the hosel can also be adjusted to dial in trajectory and launch control. The Apex Pro (18°, 20°, 23° and 26°) is aimed at mid-to-low handicappers and features a more compact head for added control and workability. Unlike the Apex 21, the hosel is fixed, giving it a more iron-like appearance at address.

RRP £249.

COBRA RADSPEED Radspeed hybrids, which are available in standard and One Length models, utilise the same Radial Weighting Technology found in the brand’s new Radspeed drivers and fairways, which feature extreme front weighting for ultra-low spin, faster ball speed, and increased distance. A forged steel face insert and hollow split sole rails combine to lower the centre of gravity and increase

launch angle for longer carries with a steeper descent, while the baffler rails make it easier to get the ball airborne from tight lies, first cut, as well as thick rough. The standard hybrid is offered in 17°, 19°, 21° and 24° lofts, while the One Length dispenses with the lowest loft. A women’s version is available in 4, 5, 6 and 7 models with a black and elderberry colour scheme.

RRP £189

Ricky Gray, TGI Golf Partnership Retail Consultant for Scotland, gives his top tips to help increase your sales of hybrid clubs •

Ensure your hybrids are displayed with eye-catching POS, clear pricing, and in a position that attracts the customer’s eye, ideally next to the woods to encourage cross selling.

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Stock hybrid models to suit a wide range of skill levels.

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Understand each model’s key features and benefits, so you’ll be able to match them up to your customer’s requirements.

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Listen to the customer! What gap are they looking to fill with a new hybrid? Why are they buying it? Use this information to help you find options for them to try in your demo bay or when custom fitting.

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At the end of a custom fitting refer back to the purpose of their purchase. Did you meet their requirements? If so, let them know to confirm they are getting what they were looking for.

WILSON D9 The D9 hybrid breaks new ground for Wilson by being the first to feature variable face technology, which delivers high ball speeds and high launch angles regardless of where the ball makes contact with the clubface. Available in four loft options (19˚, 22˚, 25˚, 28˚) they can be fitted with MRC Tensei AV Silver shafts in A (55g), R (60g) and S (70g) flexes and a Lamkin Genesis Crossline grip. Left-handed versions are available in 19°, 22˚ and 25° lofts. RRP £159

TAYLORMADE SIM 2 TaylorMade has expanded its hybrid offering to feature two models to suit different skill levels. The SIM 2 (17°, 19.5°, 22°) has a different leading edge, sole and centre of gravity to the SIM 2 Max and promises a slighter flatter launch and a bit more spin, so that they are more workable for better players. It also has an adjustable hosel and a weight port to help fitters dial in preferred ball flight, while the all-black crown makes it seem iron-like at address.

The SIM 2 Max (19°, 22°, 25°, 28°, 31°) boasts a larger head and a taller face and features a backweight screw on the sole which lowers CG and increases

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forgiveness. An updated V-Steel sole, with a depressed heel and less toe area, redistributes mass to nudge up the MOI and forgiveness, while also improving turf interaction. The crown features a white/black colour scheme to help frame the face.

RRP £259

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ADVERTORIAL

Arriving this month.

The new BMW M3 Competition Saloon and M4 Competition Coupé.

S

ix generations on and the new BMW M3 and M4 continues a famous legacy that began some thirty five years ago, pioneering a new philosophy of a sports car that could perform as strongly on the road as it could on the track.

Delivering 510hp and 650Nm of torque, the new generation M3 and M4 certainly uphold this long standing legacy and will definitely set pulses racing, sprinting from 0-60mph and 0-62mph respectively, in a mere 3.9 seconds.

Supreme performance paired with striking design elements are amplified across both the new M3 and M4…however expressive style is subjective right…fear not…with a vibrant range of new metallic paint colours, alloy wheel options and a choice of brake calipers; customisation takes to new heights.

“Their emotionally charged design is rigorously function driven, pure-bred and stripped back without compromise.” Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design Whilst their appearance is more progressive, the new M3 and M4 are more than just beautifully crafted athletic powerhouses; both have been designed with practically in mind, offering comfortable interior space, flexible seat configurations and versatile luggage capacity. The M3 for instance offers 480 litres of boot storage (440 litres in the M4). While the M4 can comfortably seat four passengers with the M3 extending to accommodate five. As a standard feature, the rear seats can also be folded down in a 40:20:40 split configuration to significantly increase the loading capacity.

With every new BMW, technology plays a key role in their modern and futuristic interiors. In the new M3 and M4, this is no

different, with all digital interfaces fluently combined to provide the visual information you need to see, where you want to see it.

Both models also offer the choice of inputting vehicle commands via touch, voice and even hand gestures for a completely seamless interaction between the driver and vehicle.

To find out more or to register your interest, get in touch with one of the BMW PGA Team, who can also discuss the unique offers available to members through The PGA’s exclusive BMW Group Affinity Programme.

The BMW Group PGA Affinity Programme.

Unique offers and a dedicated service.

BMW Group are proud to have supported PGA Members for over 15 years with special offers available across their entire range of vehicles; including all BMW models, the complete MINI family, BMW Motorrad Bikes and the growing selection of BMW i vehicles and Plug-In Hybrids.

Offers available are exclusive to The PGA and therefore not available via the retailer network. We can confidently guarantee that you won’t find a better deal elsewhere.

Based in Central London with nationwide delivery, PGA Member offers come direct from BMW Group through the dedicated PGA Sales Team. The team will be able to assist you with every aspect of your new car purchase offering a superior level of customer service and support.

Furthermore, the BMW PGA Affinity Scheme recognises that there are personal preferences where payment is concerned so, in addition to the cash purchase discount, there are also a number of highly competitive Contract Hire and Contract Purchase options.

Hear what fellow PGA Members have to say about their service: “All went really smooth I wouldn’t change a thing. Nick and Arek were absolutely superb and kept in regular contact throughout.”

“The care, help in choosing the best solution for me, and very knowledgeable advice were first class. The finance team were equally as helpful and the thoroughness of the whole process was impressive. I have to also mention that the car has surpassed all my expectations and is a delight to drive.”

“Over the moon! Andrew was spot on. The whole experience has been absolutely amazing.”

Find your dream vehicle, contact the BMW PGA Team on: 0370 700 5215, by email at mail@bmw-issd.co.uk or visit www.bmwpgasales.co.uk

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SUITS

P R O D U CT FO C U S : AW 2 1

YOU

Ping SensorDry Pro jacket

Although we’re only just moving into Spring, it’s already time to check out what some of the key brands have in store for golfers for their 2021 Autumn/Winter collections, including some impressive new waterproof suit ranges

PING PING’s Autumn/Winter 2021 men’s apparel collection sees a shift in the colour palette to explore warmer blue tones, with Delph Blue and Marina in the ‘Cool Blues’, while Firebrick Red continues to be a core colour the ‘Enriched Red’ palette across all product categories. The third colour theme, ‘Radiant Yellow’, brings warmth and vibrancy and is key for technical layering this season.

Working with the brand’s proven Sensor platform technology, the collection sees PING expand its partnership with insulation brand PrimaLoft to include PrimaLoft ThermoPlume insulation technology in the next generation Highlights of Ping’s Men’s Collection in Enriched Red

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of the Norse Series, the Norse S3 jacket (£160), a fully insulated jacket that features PrimaLoft ThermoPlume insulation in the front body section and PrimaLoft Silver Active insulation to the sleeves and back body.

Comprised of small, silky plumes of fibre that mimic the lightweight warmth and softness of natural down, ThermoPlume also delivers water-resistant protection and compressibility. The outer design features a stitch-free 3D quilted effect that enhances wind resistance and provides a contemporary look.

Moving into wet weather gear, an updated SensorDry Series now features three waterproof suit options to provide golfers with a comprehensive range of rain protection.

The SensorDry 2.5 jacket (£200) boasts a lightweight, stretch 2.5-layer fabric which is both breathable and fully waterproof; the SensorDry Pro (£160) offers waterproof performance with a brushed lining for extra warmth; while the SensorDry (£110) features a fully seam-sealed construction, with an inner stretch mesh lining and an adjustable hem and hook-and-loop cuffs to protect the wearer from wind and rain. It is available in four colourways and all three jackets can be paired

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with the SensorDry2.5 Pant to create a full waterproof suit.

Also new for men’s apparel in AW21 is the Power Half-Zip wind top (£90), a supercomfortable mid-layer that is designed to stretch and move with the body, while also being water and wind resistant, making it ideal for year-round wear. Continuing the geometric camouflage pattern from SS21, the Felix mid-layer (£70) thermal, stretch, waterresistant properties make it ideal for wearing on colder days. It can be co-ordinated with a range of other winter accessories, such as the Camo Knit hat and the reversible Harlow neck warmer, both of which feature the same camouflage pattern.

PING AW21 WOMEN’S Ping’s AW21 women’s apparel range features a rich colour palette inspired by nature’s autumnal shades. The main colours of ‘Firebrick’ and ‘Radiant Yellow’ are offset with ‘Pristine’, a fresh winter white. This versatile palette allows all colours to be worn together and all coordinate with classic navy tones.

The collection is centred around classic paisley prints that create a strong visual impact across key layering styles and

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P R O D U CT FO C U S : AW 2 1 brushed-stretch fleece sleeves, back and side panels, metallic silver front zip teeth, and two front zip pockets. The paisley print design also extends into two long-sleeved performance tops.

The Evangeline (£60) is a full body paisley print, available in two colourways - Pristine and Navy - whilst the Ainsley (£60) features the paisley print placed at the upper body and is available in Navy/Pristine and Pristine/ Navy. Both styles are engineered from peached fabric with enhanced softness for moisture-moving comfort in all conditions ale golfers with a bold, expressive and premium look. When used as a layering piece, both styles combine with the Colette vest and the reversible Paisley Neck Warmer (£25), providing a complete autumn/winter look.

If a retailer only has limited space for apparel, what are the ‘musthave’ pieces to stock from Ping’s AW21 range?

Ping’s Women’s Paisley Collection

accessories, whilst also appearing as a subtle tonal effect in new outerwear pieces.

The range combines premium fabrics and manufacturing techniques for playability, versatility and performance, to keep golfers in their comfort zone, with the option to layer up SensorCool, SensorWarm and SensorDry styles, from base layers through to accessories.

The reversible, insulated Colette vest (£90) is engineered for warmth in cold weather, this water-resistant vest features a reversible design with a printed paisley pattern to one side and bold Firebrick colour to the other. This versatile style is fully insulated throughout with chevron quilting.

The Marlena Jacket (£85) is a paisley printed hybrid jacket that provides warmth and water resistance. It features an insulated paisley printed front panel with

“Every golfer needs a high-quality waterproof suit – the SensorDry Pro provides that and more. Complete with additional features, such as inner storm-cuffs and an adjustable collar so that rain droplets don’t compromise performance, the jacket also has a brushed lining to the upper body for added warmth and protection.

The Norse S3 Jacket provides warmth, breathability, water-resistance and compressibility, with on and offcourse style, ensuring this jacket is a winner for any retailer.

Year-round protection from the elements is essential for any golfer and the Power Half-Zip is the answer.

Designed to move with the body, this super technical mid-layer protects from the wind and allows for greater freedom of movement.

The reversible Colette vest

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P R O D U CT FO C U S : AW 2 1

Callaway Women’s Mixed Media Jacket

CALLAWAY Callaway Apparel’s Weather Series collection for AW21 sees the brand collaborating with collaborated with some of the most wellknown winter clothing technology brands and integrating them into and across the portfolio.These include PRIMALOFT, which uses recycled material to create highperformance insulation and fabric; while SINGTEX technology offers advanced wind and water repellency without compromising on breathability. Many of the products also feature AQUAPEL a fluorocarbon-free treatment that repels water and is kinder to the environment when washed.

As part of Callaway’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, every new item of apparel that is designed and manufactured for AW21 and onwards, will comprise a minimum of 25% recycled polyester fabrication in all tops, and a minimum of 30% across all of its trousers and shorts. Furthermore, the StormGuard Waterproof, one of the brand’s signature styles, now features 50% recycled polyester in the jacket and trouser.

The Stormguard Waterproof Jacket (£174.99), is among the highlights for men in AW21. It is is made from breathable waterproof fabric which is insulated for warmth, while four-way stretch and Swing Tech ensures maximum range of motion. Available in three colours, it is offered with matching trousers (£149.99) to create a full rain suit.

The StormFleece Pro Jacket (£99)

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features SINGTEX, a new fabric technology featuring a new ‘soft as knit’ construction.

This provides warmth and breathability. It features a chin guard, an adjustable hem with drop tail back and adjustable storm cuffs. and is offered in Caviar and Peacoat.

Boasting advanced insulation, the Primaloft Mixed Media Jacket (£99) provides warmth and temperature regulation, while its Swing Tech design and construction removes all movement restriction. The jacket features a two-way full zip, drop tail with adjustable hem, two zippered side pockets and is also available in Caviar and Peacoat.

LADIES AW21 HIGHLIGHTS The Women’s AW21 Weather Series features

10 new items, ranging from lightweight to premium thermal garments with the integration of PRIMALOFT insulation technology for the first time. The collection features a totally redesigned waterproof jacket and trouser; new quilted jacket and vest incorporating PRIMALOFT; and two new full-zip midweight fleeces. With two distinct colours stories of True Red/Blue Tattoo and Cactus Flower, the collection features retrochique styling and incorporates a variety of linear, geometric and botanical floral prints.

Introducing an all-new design and construction, the Liberty 4.0 Waterproof Jacket (£120) offers unbeatable waterproof protection whilst incorporating a flattering feminine design. Contrasting colour side waist panels adds shape and contour. Full benefits include 10,000 MMU waterproof rating; waterproof fabric with added flex; fully seam sealed; waterproof zipper pockets; adjustable cuffs; drop tail back; Swing Tech construction, and exterior zip pockets.

Offered in Caviar and Peacoat, it comes with matching waterproof trousers (£80).

Also boasting Primaloft insulation, and made from recycled polyester, the ladies’ version of the Mixed Media Jacket (£90) not only keeps the wearer warm, but offers complete freedom of movement provided by Swing Tech. Benefits include contour quilting lines and insulated front and back panels.

Available in Peacoat and Cactus Flower.

To see the AW21 Collection or to book a virtual or future face-to-face appointment, email callaway.europe. apparel@pery.com or call 01376 504395.

Callaway Men’s StormGuard Jacket in Peacoat

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Callaway Mixed Media Jacket in Peacoat

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P R O D U CT FO C U S : AW 2 1

FOOTJOY

FJ Men’s HydroLite jacket in red/

FootJoy’s AW21 collection for men is headlined by the both trap and retain body heat added insulation, new HydroSeries range of rain jackets. Proven in the warmth and comfort; and the Ribbed Chill-Out Xtreme harshest conditions, the HydroSeries features DryJoys Midlayers, which offers a smooth, jersey fleece knit main Waterproof Technology and includes several options that body with double knit ribbed shoulders and arms with provide the ultimate protection during the colder months. textural and colour contrasts.

The HydroTour jacket is the ultimate storm-proof jacket The Quilted Chill-Out Xtreme provides a striking look and features a DrySeal double collar system with a cinch cord whilst creating small pockets of warm air that retain body heat, on the inner layer to keep the rain out and drainage holes on the outer while the stretch fabric used in the Contrast Chill-Out Xtreme ensures layer which prevent water from running down the back of the neck. full freedom of movement and uses a flat back rib with contrasting A three-panel construction with fewer seams and a multi-directional lightweight woven overlay to deliver a strong layering piece. stretch fabric provide a full range of motion, while a waterproof rating Wool blend fabric in the Tech Full Zip provides the warmth and above 20,000mm ensures wearers stay dry. It is available in black with comfort of natural fibre, with the durability of performance fabrics, charcoal/lime, and navy with black/bright red. while the exterior shell lining offers the garment versatility with added Rounding up HydroSeries are the popular HydroKnit and protection from the wind and additional warmth. FJ’s baselayer HydroLite options. Both jackets are constructed from materials for AW21 is the PhaseOne, which features an Hexatherm that deliver 100% waterproof, breathable protection. The Graphene Print which sits tight against the body to HydroKnit boasts a lighter weight fabric and updated maintain compression for comfort and heat. A wide elastic cuffs, providing the wearability of a midlayer and selection of polos and midlayers throughout the range performance of a rain jacket. While HydroLite, evolved will be available in two new colour pallettes. The Destin from the HLV2, is the perfect lightweight summer rain collection incorporates sky blue, navy, white; whilst grey, jacket with added breathability and stretch to the fabric. smoke and white in the Garden City collection are The HydroKnit ½ Zip will be available in three colours brought to life with use of chilli and merlot. made up of black and grey with lime, navy and denim, and charcoal with bright red and white.

FJ WOMEN’S AW21 COLLECTION FJ Ribbed Chill-Out The HydroLite will be available in five colours, including a Golf Leisure, FJ’s women’s collection, is bolstered with tonal marble effect print in black and navy, in addition to the new additions and energised with colours of hot pink and chevron pattern design in black with grey and lime, royal with black and aquamarine. Both a full-zip HydroKnit jacket and HLV2 are introduced, silver and navy with bright red and white. All three HydroSeries options with accompanying trouser options, to present a comprehensive are accompanied by matching waterproof trousers in black or navy, outerwear offering in addition to the FJ Insulated Jacket with super that offer a more tapered fit, allowing the golfer to use as a standalone soft wind and water-resistant woven shell for lighter protection. trouser as well as an over-trouser.

The range also includes a strong layering selection featuring a Other key layering pieces include the Hybrid Insulated Jacket, reversible thermal vest, space dye fleece full-zip, thermal jersey shirt, which features a knit fleece body and insulated woven panels which wool blend lined pullover and a thermal mock base layer.

FJ Men’s HydroTour Jacket

FootJoy senior apparel designer PJ Skurla offers an insight into the key trends and performance benefits of FJ’s AW21 range What have been the key inspirations that have fuelled FJ’s collections for AW21?

We’ve looked across macro-fashion trends to guide our designs for the AW21 range. Increasingly we are seeing retooled classic stripes and vintage florals patterns trend across fashion, which we have infused within the Men’s Performance Shirt line to add style and interest. Our outerwear collection continues to focus on providing high performance pieces

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that will stand up to playing in all weather conditions.

Each garment is built with the golfer and the golf swing at the forefront of our design philosophy.

What technical trends can retailers expect to see?

In thermal outerwear, we’re seeing unique combinations of technical materials for increased functionality. Our Hybrid Padded Jacket is a good example of this in practice, combining insulated panels with a stretch knit to allow for maximum warmth without impeding the swing.

Is there a bit more use of colour detailing than in previous FJ A/W ranges?

Yes, for AW21 we have used pops of

colour to highlight the collections. In our Garden City Collection, we use bright red chilli accents to add a sporty look to the pallet of merlot, smoke, grey and white.

In outerwear, we have brought life to the navy, black and grey with pops of red and lime on the zippers and logos. We’ve also introduced elements of textural contrast to add interest to garments, as highlighted in the Ribbed Chill-Out Xtreme Midlayer, which features doubled knitted ribbed shoulders and arms, as well as the tonal marble effect print in the navy and black HydroLite options.

If a retailer only has limited space for apparel in their shop, what are the absolute ‘must-have’ pieces to stock?

I would carry all three jackets in the HydroSeries – HydroTour, HydroKnit and HydroLite – so you can offer a rain jacket for every type of golfer.

March 2021

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R E TA I L

STAY CALM

& TAKE STOCK XPOS Chairman Phil Barnard advises retailers to keep the faith when it comes to pre-ordering this season, as golf’s imminent return will spark high demand for the latest hot products

It’s been a poor start to 2021 for golf retail, with extended national lockdowns resulting in the closure of pro shops throughout the UK since the beginning of the year. While this has been bad for the trade, I wonder how much golf would have been played over this period anyway, with the wet weather and half the country covered in snow. Even without the pandemic, it would have been a rough start to the year.

We can be grateful for some government support for retailers who had to close their shops. Furlough has been offered for staff and grants are available for some clubs and retailers that pay rates. Covering these costs in these downtimes could actually help improve the financial situation for many. If we had all been closed for snow, there would have been none of these payments.

REASONS FOR OPTIMISM As with many things, a good plan can deliver the best results. Last year’s initial panic cancellation of orders at the start of the pandemic led to lost sales for many retailers and brands for golf’s return in May. While the reasons were understandable, those in the trade that positioned themselves and planned accordingly, had a stronger year.

Assuming golf courses in England reopen at the end of March, and

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Managing your stock levels is going to be critical when golf retail reopens

#makinggolfhappen

non-essential retail returns in midApril, there is still plenty of opportunity ahead to turnaround your balance sheet. While there has been some retail trade during the shut period – especially in Scotland, where golf courses remained open – the market will be down considerably. January and February are generally quiet months which, typically, only account for 8-9% of turnover, but, more importantly, only 6-8% of margin.

Usually, this period is a time for excess stock clearance, planning and a shop refresh. However, with the current low levels of stock, this may not be as necessary.

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R E TA I L normal years being plus or minus 5%.

Even in a pandemic it was only down 10% overall. While the timing may vary during the year, the end results are pretty consistent.

ENGAGING BEHAVIOUR Last year we saw that what does change is what people spend their money on, as well as where they spend it. Retailers who did well last year should continue to do so if they maintain their customer base.

Those that lost out last year need to re-engage with customers to win them back. On-course shops shouldn’t take their customers for granted and may even need to start selling balls and gloves, instead of just waiting for orders. Golf has received a lot of attention and other mainstream retailers are trying to muscle in on the action.

STOCK DEMAND

Once we are out of lockdown, I expect the year to be more like 2019, than 2020. We know January and February will be small. Hopefully there will be some pent-up demand as the weather improves and golf returns to the forefront of peoples’ minds.

March through May will be the key period and the time when it will be important to bring everyone back to the club, shop and course. With the vaccine roll-out forging ahead, I hope there will be no need for another lockdown during the summer. People will be encouraged to go outside and stay healthy. Travel may still be a problem, so there may be some restriction on international holidays, but hopefully more people will stay in the UK and play golf. If we combine these factors, and manage to retain many of the new and returned golfers, things could be very buoyant for golf retail in the coming months.

FUTURE MODELLING Looking at the numbers for 2019, we can do some modelling to try and predict where we might get to this year. After losing January, February and perhaps a good chunk of March,

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Make sure you buy sufficient stock to meet demand for a busy year ahead

and April is fairly flat, a surge in demand should drive more sales during the following months.

If we look at somewhere between the 2019 and 2020 bounce, we can perhaps expect gains of 15% in May and June July, 10% in August, and 5% in September and October.

Assuming November is flat, and December sees a small uptick, golf retailers would end up 11% on 2020, and about level with 2019.

If we can achieve that, then I think it would have to be considered a good recovery, especially having lost the first two or three months to lockdown.

However, if golf is released early, momentum picks up, and we see some of the higher play in the summer, as we did last year, there is every chance of a strong bounce back and more considerable growth for the year.

During the second half of 2020, sales values were up over 20%, on average, for the five months we were out of lockdown.

I want anyone reading this to understand that, even in the harshest of conditions, the golf market appears to be very resilient. Golf spend is relatively consistent, year on year, with

Last year, sales were down for many stores as there simply wasn’t enough stock in place to support demand. If you don’t have stock, you can’t sell it.

Cancelled orders rippled through the system and brands weren’t able to get stock into the country. When they did, it went to retailers that had maintained their orders. Make sure that you make a plan for this year and have stock ready for when play starts again.

Suppliers may be more cautious, and it could be that surplus stock won’t be hanging around in warehouses if you decide you want it later on. The other thing to consider is that if you cancel stock, you will be at the back of the queue when you next want it. Retailers that have worked with suppliers and planned their stocking will be the ones that get the goods first and make the sales. The most popular phrase in 2020 was ‘you are on mute’. This year we expect it to be ‘we ran out of stock’.

2021 RETAIL DO’S • Make a forecast and plan for the year. The market should only change + or- 10% by the end of the year.

• Make buying decisions to help you achieve your goals. You will need to order sufficient stock.

• Don’t cancel pre-orders that meet the plan: only trim the excess ones.

March 2021

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T R AV E L

Andy Fletcher

Head Teaching Professional at Lakeside Lodge Golf & Country Club in Cambridgeshire and seasoned traveller of 12 years.

What encouraged you to start taking groups away?

It was really to help through the winter months as they had always been slow and left me with a fair bit of time on my hands in comparison to the summer months. I had always had a passion for travel, and no previous Professional had offered trips at Lakeside Lodge so there was definitely a market for it.

What financial impact has travel had on your business?

It’s created a very healthy and consistent income stream for me for 12 months of the year but particularly through the winter months where I am quieter coaching. Over the past few years, the income I have earnt from taking groups away has enabled me to fund the build of my indoor teaching academy at Lakeside Lodge and fully kit it out.

Has this helped ease the financial setback COVID-19 has had on your earnings in the past 12 months?

The last 6 months has enabled me to assess, plan and prepare myself better for when travel is back up and running, which should hopefully be very soon. I have a number of trips filled already for later in the year and I’ve been able to take advantage of the pent-up demand with more interest than I’ve ever had before.

How many trips do you run a year?

I started off running one trip a year in February to Turkey for the first couple of years. I realised actually how easy it was and have steadily grown the number of trips since then.

In a normal year now I run 6-8 breaks, from 5 day European breaks to 10 day breaks to long haul destinations such as South Africa and Mauritius.

Where is your favourite destination?

I have two really! The Gloria Resorts in Turkey for coaching as they have everything on-site I need for the perfect trip and South Africa for the full golf and cultural experience.

Where are you off to next?

For the first time, I am off to Mauritius, staying at the Constance Belle Mare Plage for 10 nights in November with a mixed group – I can’t wait!

What’s your top tip for Pros thinking about taking groups away?

Don’t be scared to try it, even if you start with a weekend away in the UK. It’s far easier than you think and very rewarding in a number of ways. Be persistent and ensure you utilise your database to maximise sign up for your trips.

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T R AV E L

JOE BOWREY Senior Travel Consultant T: 01753 752880 E: jbowrey@golfrbeaks.com

BREAKING DEALS

The UK is still proving popular for getaways this year. Why not take advantage of the pent-up demand for travel and get a UK break in the diary for you and your members!

Take a look at some of our top deals for UK travel this year

WALES

NORTH

THE VALE RESORT, CARDIFF

SLALEY HALL, NORTHUMBERLAND

1 night, dinner, bed & breakfast 2 rounds of golf Pro goes FREE with 15 amateurs

FROM

£125

1 night, dinner, bed & breakfast 2 rounds of golf Pro goes FREE with 15 amateurs

FROM

£109

DALMAHOY HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB, EDINBURGH 1 night, bed & breakfast 2 rounds of golf Pro goes FREE with 11 amateurs

SCOTLAND

FROM

£119

SOUTH

MIDLANDS

OLD THORNS MANOR HOTEL, HAMPSHIRE

FOREST OF ARDEN MARRIOTT HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB, WARWICKSHIRE FROM

1 night, dinner, bed & breakfast 2 rounds of golf Pro goes FREE with 15 amateurs

50

FROM

£99

1 night, dinner, bed & breakfast 2 rounds of golf Pro goes FREE with 15 amateurs

£139

March 2021

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TRAVEL T R AV E L

WHERE TO TRAVEL IN MARCH 2022

JAMES MARTIN Business Development Manager South UK M: 07849 083 479 E: jrmartin@golfbreaks.com

March is the perfect time to kick start your members season by taking them away on a coaching break.

The weather in Spain and Portugal is pretty good at this time of year, with average temperatures hovering around 19c and offers you an excellent opportunity to get away for a short break with your group.

Start planning for 2022 and take a look at some of our most popular venues for travel in March……..

PACKAGES START FROM

PACKAGES START FROM

£325

£365

PGA CATALUNYA RESORT

PRECISE RESORT EL ROMPIDO

GIRONA, SPAIN

HUELVA, SPAIN

Spain’s No. 1 golf resort, PGA Catalunya is located in the Costa Brava and offers golfers a 5-star experience from start-to-finish.

The resort benefits from a range of excellent facilities your group can make use of throughout their stay including two championship courses, spa & leisure facilities, tennis courts, and much more. Plus, the resort runs a range of different classes, tours and sessions which are ideal for killing time off the golf course for your members.

The Precise El Rmpido Resot is our most popular resort in Spain for pro travel. Boasting two courses and excellent practice facilities including two range areas, putting green and designated pitching zone, it’s not hard to see why. El Rompido also offers half board and semi-all inclusive as standard, making it excellent value for money.

AMENDOEIRA GOLF RESORT

PACKAGES START FROM

ALBUFEIRA, PORTUGAL

£345

The PGA Professional

A short transfer from Faro airport and two fantastic courses on-site including the revered Faldo course, Amendoeira offers everything you need for a hosted or coaching break. The practice facilities are excellent with a large grass range, chipping and putting greens and is our most popular pro travel venue.

Unlimited golf and buggies are also included as standard and the resort has an excellent par 3 course, perfect for some fun in the evening for your group!

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T R AV E L

PACKAGES START FROM

PACKAGES START FROM

£285

£415

LA MANGA CLUB

QUINTA DO LAGO GOLF

MURCIA, SPAIN

FARO, PORTUGAL

La Manga Club needs no introduction and has been a go to resort in Spain for decades. The resort has everything you need for the perfect break with your members with 3 courses, excellent practice facilities and over 15 bars and restaurants dotted around the complex. The wealth of leisure facilities and option of hotel or appartments make it one of the most popular choices for pros.

This world leading resort is a great option if you are looking at taking a group away, whether it be a coaching or hosted break.

With a number of accommodation options on offer from the Magnolia Hotel to the Wyndham Grand Algarve, your group will be spoilt for choice. The resort boasts world class facilities with excellent practice facilities and three famous courses, North, South & Laranjal.

Listen to the recent episode of PGA Live – The Podcast, where the Golfbreaks team discuss COV-19 impact on golf travel and positive outlook for 2021 and beyond.

LISTEN

NOW

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 |

@golfbreaks_pro_travel

March 2021

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C OAC H I N G

TRAITS OF THE GREATS Rory McIlroy

Each month PGA Professionals Andy Proudman and Piers Ward (Me and My Golf) focus on sharing with you some of the great insights and techniques they have gleaned from spending time with some of the world’s top players.

If you want to know more about the work Andy & Piers do, connect with them in the following ways:

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We have been very lucky over the last few years to spend time with and interview some of the best players in the world and being life-long learners, our eyes and ears are always wide open.

What are the stand out things that we have learned from these greats up to now that may help our coaching or even our game?

SELECT A SHAPE All of the players have a stock shot shape that they rely on. They like to see the ball move a certain way and understand that it is unrealistic to try and hit straight golf shots. They double-down on this shot shape and use it as a strength. This is very personal, usually based on what they feel comfortable seeing and also guarding against a shot they REALLY don’t like to see.

Tommy Fleetwood for instance, likes to see a small draw, this is what he feels he can play his best golf under pressure, where Dustin Johnson prefers to play a fade as he feels much more in control and really doesn’t like to miss it left.

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C OAC H I N G Tommy Fleetwood THE MESSAGE - find out what shape your student likes to see and find out which shot scares them the most!

KNOW YOUR SUPERPOWER All of these players recognise their weaknesses and understand what their superpower is.

What is evident though is that they doubledown on their superpower and never sacrifice what they are great at in order to improve what they are bad at. For example, we put Johnson in the 50-yard pitching range asking him what he does and he says he never works at it. This would obviously be a weakness but just because it is a weakness, doesn’t mean it needs to be worked on. Spending time on this area makes no sense to Johnson as he can just avoid these situations on the golf course. He understands that spending more time on his 150 yards is where the money is at for him.

Rory McIlroy also knows that his superpower and his weapon is his driving. Sure, he will look at the areas he needs to improve on but what he will also do is doubledown on making sure his driving is primed and as good as possible, never sacrificing this over something that needs some attention.

Many players have done this in the past and placed too much attention on their weaknesses in place of what they are good at and actually become worse.

THE MESSAGE - know your super-power and make it more powerful.

THEY ARE ALL DIFFERENT One thing that is evident from speaking to all these world-class players is they are all so different - they think differently, they move differently, and they play differently.

The key thing though is they understand their recipe for success. They have discovered this through trial and error, and just because it works for one, doesn’t mean it will work for all. They know what works for them.

For example, from a strategy point of view, Rory prefers to not think too much about where the flag is on a par 4 as he feels it puts too much pressure on his tee shot and he prefer to feels free to take advantage of his driving.

However, Matthew Wolff likes to think about where the flag is on the green so he can plan to position himself on the ideal side of the fairway to better access the flag.

When pitching the ball, Tiger Woods talks so much about feeling everything in his hands, whereas Jason Day feels everything through his body acceleration and has quiet hands.

THE MESSAGE - there are so many ways to do things and no right or wrong. Learn as many ways as possible to produce the same outcome so you have more tools to help you and your students.

THEY KEEP IT SIMPLE We have not met one of these world-class players that over complicates their swing, or thoughts about their

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swing. Yet, they deeply understand their technique and tendencies. They know where they want to be when swinging their best and they know where they want to avoid their technique moving towards.

Many people think Johnson is oblivious to his golf swing and he is just a natural, but when asking him about what he likes to see, and the tendencies he has, he is fully aware and in tune with where things need to be. This is certainly developed and backed up by the strong support of their coach, in order to maintain the areas that allow them to perform their best, and this includes getting out of their own way mentally.

THE MESSAGE - get to know your player and only tell them what they need to know.

PRACTICE WITH PURPOSE The way these players now practice has certainly changed over the last few years, as more research has been produced about the benefits and difference between block and random practice.

Block practice which is more about repetition of a single skill is still relevant, but there is so much more emphasis now of randomising practice and simulating the real game where the players will vary distances, club selection, shot shape etc.

Launch monitors have provided more opportunities to make this easier to create playing conditions on the range, as well as measuring the results. This provides an element of pressure to practice, and allows them to measure progress which also helps build confidence. Many of the players have also talked about practicing ugly on the golf course - creating difficult scenarios and challenges to overcome, and perhaps involving consequences they may not like if they don’t achieve that.

THE MESSAGE - bridge the gap between practice and play.

It is fascinating to be able to get insights in to how these guys think and play, and the one thing that is consistent is that they are all so different. They fully understand what works for them and do their best to evolve and grow as players rather than change. We believe understanding this opens up so many opportunities to learn and grow as a coach - developing new skills and tools to help others find their own recipe for success.

Dustin Johnson

March 2021

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MARKETING

GET TO KNOW YOUR NEW CUSTOMERS!

As golf reopens on March 29, golf clubs can expect heavy demand from members and quite rightly, for the first few weeks, most clubs will be giving them priority.

However, demand for visitor play and membership sales is also expected to be high in the early weeks as other leisure activities still have to open up.

One of the most important lessons through COVID-19 has been the importance of retention and so with new members in 2021, it’s important you start off on the right foot. You need to be prepared. A socially distanced welcome and then leaving new members to make their own way is no longer enough.

One of the easiest ways you can start to keep track of new members is by taking the time to complete a member profile with them during their welcome meeting.

WHY PROFILE YOUR MEMBERS? There are several good reasons why doing this is beneficial for the club:• Understanding what the member’s goals are and why they have joined helps to categorise them as a golfer.

This way it is possible to target them with offers and club events which will enhance their golfing experience.

• It will give you a chance to get to know your new customers, understand their goals, skills levels and their likely playing patterns.

• The more you know about your membership, the easier it is to review whether their needs are being met. If they

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are getting the maximum out of their membership they are more likely to be happy and remain loyal to the club.

• Over time, you are able to identify patterns which may help you address some issues without people even having to mention them.

• You can segment the members in your club in multiple ways. Some of this can be done with basic profiling of information you already have e.g. men, women, juniors, but more detailed segmentation can help maximise the impact of your communications and activities.

Example: If a member is seeking to improve their game but is not interested in social events then communications around lessons, pro clinics and encouraging the use of practice facilities has more appeal than telling them about the annual club dinner.

• It can help you plan club events and activities. If a large proportion of members are looking to reduce their handicap / improve their game then you could focus key activities and communications around lessons, clinics, and competitions so they can achieve their goals and maximise the opportunities where they can get their handicap reduced.

There are loads of activities which can be done as a result of profiling. Knowing your members goes a long way towards retaining them BUT, only if you do something with that information.

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MARKETING

Membership Profile Form Completion of this form will help us to help you get the most from your membership at XXXXXXXXXXX Golf Club. We aim to understand as much about you personally and from a golfing perspective so all communications are as relevant as possible. All information is treated as confidential and will never be used outside the golf club.

Remember to add them to your Happy Birthday email list! You do have one don't you?

About You Name

Segment your communications so that members in a younger age category receive the same communications- and they will be different from those in the retired age group!

Date of Birth

Male

Any Children Under 16

Female

Email Address

Bar Use

Yes

Add a new section to the Members' area of your club website introducing new members with a photo and short biog.

Remember to get their permission first!

No

Contact Number

Frequently Sometimes Never

Social Events

Frequently Sometimes Never

Photo provided

Yes No

Ask where they think they are now and where they would like to be. What time do they have to improve their game?

Your Golf Membership Category

Understanding when someone is likely to play will make it easier to pair members up for games

7 Day 5 Day E.Service/A.Forces 36-40 30-35 25-29 19-24 Country Junior 16-18 Junior under 16 Academy (Adult) Academy (Junior) Social

Preferred day(s) to Play Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Weekdays Weekends No Preference Not Applicable Preferred Time to Play Mornings Afternoons Evenings Anytime

Handicap Category 0-5 6-12 13-20 21-28 29-36 Not Applicable Competitions Frequently Sometimes Never Find a game email

Golfing Frequency Once a week 2-3 times a week > 3 times a week Once a fortnight Once a month Not Applicable

For the PGA professional this will provide important information to understand the new member's needs

Golfing Target (tick all that apply) Reduce Handicap Play with Friends Learn the Game Get a bit better Win a Competition Not Applicable

Ask the member if he/ she would like help in arranging games and add them to your Find A Game service

Yes No

HOW TO PROFILE YOUR MEMBERS? Chances are you have the structure for this already in place. It really depends on what you want to know about your members. Some profiles may be as simple as identifying which members play in competitions and which don’t. This sort of profiling can usually be achieved within the existing club systems as the information is stored there – you just have to get it and review it.

For new members, the easiest way to capture the information you require is to get them to fill in a profile form when they join. An example is shown. This can be as part of an initial meeting with the PGA Professional or club manager- or preferably both. The form does not

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need to be complicated. Think of what you want to learn and try and ensure the majority of the form is simply ticking boxes to reflect their views.

Once you have the information it is a case of entering the information onto a spreadsheet. This will then give you the ability to segment your database. Some of the information should be obtained from your club systems and then you just have to combine the two.

For existing members you should try to use the same form. You can get them to fill this out when you see them in the clubhouse, or you can run an email campaign to encourage them to provide you with the information.

You may be surprised by what you can learn!

March 2021

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www.pga.info

ADVERTORIAL

Are you confident in your

cyber security set-up?

Working from home has forced a lot of changes in how we work, maybe at the expense of security best practices.

Silverbug, a long-term partner of The PGA, has developed a list of ways that you can remain secure while working from home.

In March 2020, a vast portion of the global population were forced to work from home, but how many businesses were actually prepared for this? It turns out that 55% of UK businesses had little to no experience working from home. This dramatic change must have been quite a shock and difficult to adapt to in such short notice, sometimes at the expense of security best practices.

Always use your corporate VPN access when required Use the company’s Virtual Private Network (VPN), provided to you by the company you work for, it allows you to browse the internet on your organisation’s IP address and encrypt all the data being transmitted, meaning your data and network are secure. Easy!

Ensure your home internet is secure with a long and strong password Companies cannot bang the drum any harder around this topic and for good reason. A short meaningful password is pretty much an invitation for hackers. Ensuring that your home internet password is long, filled with at least one random number and special characters, it will make it a lot harder for a cybercriminal to use you as a gateway to target the company you work for.

Use MFA on all devices and software Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a multiple set of security measures that are turned on to further protect outsiders from gaining access to applications, devices and websites that you use on a regular basis. This technique has been largely adapted by businesses across the globe, but it’s also important that you use this in your everyday applications. Most applications or websites will have this their security settings.

Back-up all important files Whether you’re working in the office or at home, you’re most likely already using OneDrive or some form of SharePoint to store all your working files on. This is great as all this data is securely back-up in the Cloud, meaning that you can always access this data via the internet or retrieve files that may have accidentally been destroyed.

If you’re not using Cloud, VPN or Virtual Desktop to store data and instead storing your information on your desktop, you’re at risk of losing all of your files!

Use the tools available and provided to you by your employer as it makes working life so much easier.

If you have any queries on how to set-up some of these features or how to keep your company safe while utilising remote working, please do not hesitate to contact us on +44 345 565 1953.

Have a chat with an expert about how to better your remote working ENVELOPE enquiries@silverbug.it Globe-Americas www.silverbug.it The PGA Professional

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BENEFITS

RELAX, UNWIND AND SAVE WITH PGA BENEFITS PGA Benefits gives you access to a range of benefits and discounts designed to support members both personally and professionally. This month’s highlights include: RENT MOVIES AT HOME FOR LESS WITH CHILI.COM All the latest releases (and tens of thousands of your favourite movies) at discounted prices*!

STAY ACTIVE WITH MYACTIVEDISCOUNTS DIGITAL FITNESS SUBSCRIPTIONS MyActiveDiscounts offers The PGA members great savings on digital fitness subscriptions that can help keep you fit and healthy*.

FREE MULTI-CAR ACCIDENT AFTERCARE FOR THE PGA MEMBERS*!

Total Motor Assist multi-car membership gives you and your family the very best accident aftercare, plus many more benefits and peace of mind.

One call to the Total Motor Assist helpline can save having to claim on your own motor insurance policy. So, this can save you paying your insurance excess as well as preserving your no claims bonus.

Services include: • UK wide accident recovery (not usually included in your car insurance or breakdown cover) • Like for like replacement car while we repair yours • Manufacturer-approved repairs, plus regular updates • if you’re injured in a non-fault accident we will arrange local private treatment, such as physiotherapy (quicker than the NHS) • 24/7 accident helpline and Legal support

SAVE ON MOBILE PHONE DEALS WITH REWARD MOBILE Reward Mobile are a multi-award winning, premier partner of EE, offering The PGA members discounts on the latest mobile phones, tablets and EE Home Broadband.

Through their partnership with EE, Reward are able to provide you with the best deals they can find. That means you can make big savings, and still be part of RootMetric’s UK’s number one network for the past seven years in a row.

To take advantage of these and other fantastic deals visit the PGA Benefits site today. *Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers subject to change without notice. Total Motor Assist - In the event of a non-fault accident. Click here for Total Motor Assist terms and conditions. The price for renewing your membership is discounted by 66% to only £10 a year. 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.

g, keep your contact details up-to-date by visiting ‘My REMEMBER: The way you access the Members’ Area online is changin hboard) and select ‘Edit my details’. In future, an email Dashboard’ under ‘My PGA’ (www.pga.info/members/my-pga/my-das t Details’ labelled ‘Preferred Email’. address will be required to login and you can check yours under ‘Contac 58

March 2021

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BENEFITS 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. †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.

Formby Hall Golf & Spa Resort Rates from £95pp including use of the pool and health club. Spa days from £49 pp. PGA deals available Sun – Thur. Members wmore. Contact Mark Williams on 01704 875 699 or reservations@ formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk quoting your membership number.

Modry Las Golf Resort Modry Las, The PGA National Poland is delighted to offer fantastic Stay & Play coaching packages for PGA Members. Visit the Members’ Area and find us under ‘Travel & Experiences’ for more info. Get in touch on golf@modrylas.pl or +48 667 710 410 or visit www.modrylas.pl

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.

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.

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

Health and Wellbeing Support The PGA is committed to providing support and offers access to a 24/7, totally confidential helpline 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 your close family and employees. If you feel you or someone close to you needs help, call 0333 000 2082.

VAT Advice For VAT advice, contact Tom Newman at PGA Headquarters on 01675 470 333 or email thomas.newman@pga.org.uk

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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

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

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

Golfing Packages Commission Access to bespoke golfing packages for you and your club members through the dedicated Golf Pro Travel Team. Receive 5% commission on your booking. Contact 01753 752 900 or email pga@golfbreaks.com to book your next trip.

Vehicle Leasing Offers* Exclusive contract hire rates on a selection of BMW and MINI models through BMW Group. Visit www.bmwpgasales.co.uk, call 0370 700 5215 or email mail@bmw-issd.co.uk

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

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.

Prostate Cancer UK An official charity of The PGA. Speak to a Specialist Nurse on 0800 074 8383* or visit www.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.

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PGAPRO HP - DGI Academy 2019.indd 1

15/10/2020 16:22

For all your golf academy and simulator room requirements Free golf academy design service with independent advice on golf simulators and launch monitors for PGA Professionals and club fitters.

Our professional services include advice on the installation of all golf studio systems.

Consultation on ranges, new coaching rooms and cabin builds.

We can supply all your academy requirements including nets, screens, turf and mats.

golfswingsystems.co.uk +44 (0)1483 266679

sales@golfswingsystems.co.uk 60

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BENEFITS Coca Cola European Partners* CCEP are delighted to offer PGA Members free coolers for their retail facilities. To arrange delivery/installation, please contact John Balchin on jbalchin@ccep.com. Wholesale & delivery of products can be arranged via Chapple & Jenkins.

Wholesale and Delivery Service* We are delighted to offer PGA Members in England and Wales a reliable wholesale and delivery service. A complimentary gift is available to all new PGA account holders. Contact Tim Swingler on 07519 111 582 or tim@chappleandjenkins.co.uk or visit www. chappleandjenkins.co.uk

Incentive Programme 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

Loch Lomond Whiskies Loch Lomond Whiskies would like to offer all PGA Members in the UK a discount of 15% on all Loch Lomond Expressions available to buy on our website. Visit lochlomondwhiskies.com and enter the discount code PGA15 at checkout to receive your discount.

Card Payment Services* Preferential rates to PGA Members for accepting credit and debit cards. Call 0330 123 1241 quoting PGA.

CBD products Cannaray CBD are offering PGA retailers a no-commitment, sale-orreturn kit worth £560 free of charge. For more info go to PGA benefits or visit www.cannaray.co.uk. To order, email scoop@cannaray.co.uk

Rangefinder Savings SkyCaddie are delighted to offer PGA Members savings of up to £150 on their latest award- winning family of GPS products. Call 01844 296358 or email sales@skycaddiegps.co.uk for more info.

Turf Maintenance Equipment 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

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GreenClub GreenClub work with golf facilities to identify the potential of roof or ground-mounted solar installations which can reduce energy costs by up to 40%. GreenClub will support with surveys, audits, planning and design and, subject to meeting required criteria, will fund the entire project. For more information, visit www.greenclub. energy, email info@greenclub.energy or call 0800 999 1904.

IT Services* 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.

XPOS Sales and Stock Management 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

Golf Carts 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

Special Product Offers Special offers on selected LG products for PGA members. For the most up-to-date offers, log into member benefits, select the ‘Shopping’ section. Or contact the team at lgvip@lge.com for any orders.

Affiliate Bonus 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.

Personalised Luggage PGA Members receive 20% off our luggage range. To view the full range visit www.asbrigolf.co.uk/pga-members-luggage Contact sales@asbri.co.uk or 02922 678 842 quoting membership number.

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ADVERTORIAL

The world’s smallest touchscreen trolley headlines the all-new 2021 PowaKaddy collection PowaKaddy, the world’s leading electric trolley brand, has announced details of the all-new CT6 GPS, the world’s smallest touchscreen electric trolley, as well as an array of other product improvements for 2021. This new and improved collection comes as the company continues to redefine electric trolley technology and looks to build upon on its current market share of 63% (Golf Datatech) in 2020.

Despite 2020 proving to be one of the most turbulent years in recent history, with the help of the ever-resilient PGA members, PowaKaddy has managed to produce some fantastic sales numbers. With the demand for golf higher than ever, the company is excited to build on these figures in 2021 with the help of PGA Professionals up and down the country.

The Freeway FX Collection continues to lead the way with PowaKaddy’s new hi-tensile alloy, 1-Click folding system, which folds to be 20% smaller than the previous versions, as well as a host of other new technological additions. The FX7 features an all-new digital screen upgrade, delivering an even sharper experience while also allowing golfers to count calories and set automatic stopping distances.

The best-selling Compact CT continues to set the standard in ultra-compact design, with the addition of all-new high-tech touchscreen

technology to the CT6 GPS available in March.

The world’s smallest touchscreen electric trolley comes complete with a fully integrated GPS system, allowing golfers to navigate their way around over 40,000 golf courses worldwide from the 2.8-inch full colour touchscreen display.

The new CT6 GPS also offers an auto hole advance feature and an automatic stopping distance function (ADF), as well as a Simple-2fold™ PowaFrame® chassis design that allows the Compact range to fold down 35% smaller than the nearest competitors.

The all-new FX5 GPS rental trolley is sure to help golfers manage their game more efficiently out on the course. Featuring a super-accurate, high-performance GPS and a full colour widescreen display, PowaKaddy’s 2021 rental offering is the most intelligent in the game.

The company invites professionals to pre-order their fleet now to make a withdrawal from the ‘ultimate cash machine’.

The PowaKaddy GPS Bluetooth Connected App for iOS and Android allows golfers to carry out course updates on-the-go for GPS models using just their mobile device. No annual fees or subscriptions are required.

Led by the all-new Dri-Tech model, the redesigned PowaKaddy bag collection has been engineered to help golfers hit the fairways in style. Now available in an all-new Black/Silver colourway, it is 100% waterproof and delivers four times the performance of most waterproof bags on the market. Also, in the collection are the newly designed Premium Tech, Premium Edition, DLX-Lite and X-Lite cart bags.

For more information on the entire range of all-new high-performance trolleys, bags, batteries, and accessories, go to www.powakaddy.com or contact the sales team on 01795 473555 or sales@powakaddy.co.uk 62

March 2021

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www.pga.info

E M P LOY M E N T O P P O RT U N I T I E S Taunton and Pickeridge Golf Club - Head Professional Established in 1892, Taunton & Pickeridge Golf Club is a private members club in a superb location. Adjacent to Somerset’s Blackdown Hills, the views are spectacular and the surroundings peaceful. We have 650 adult playing members with vibrant Men’s, Ladies’ and Seniors’ Sections; our Junior and Adult Academy Sections have an additional 70 members.

Our excellent course is a challenging 6100-yard par 69, including 6 par 3s, with 4 sets of tees to cater for all abilities. We are supported with a dedicated retail facility, have 2 practice areas, one with 2 covered teaching bays, and both a dedicated short-game area and a practice putting green.

We are seeking to retain a committed and commercially-minded PGA Professional to operate at the very centre of the Club, maintaining our standards and advising with management and development to help us continue to build on our great history and reputation.

The retained PGA Professional is expected to employ a suitable team and to deliver: • A First-Class Front-of-House facility and reception to all; members, guests and visitors alike; with a focus on customer service and the overall customer experience.

• A comprehensive retail offering, including custom fitting, repair and coaching services.

• Support to competitions, handicaps and course oversight.

• Engagement with, and advice and wise counsel to, a wide gamut of Club management structures. A Board of Directors, a General Manager, a Course Manager and a number of volunteer committees organising and running the activity of the Club.

Please send applications, including a covering letter and a full CV to the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Andy Rhodes, andy@tauntongolf.co.uk.

A full Service Specification and Schedule of Requirements is available on request.

Club website: https://www.tauntongolf.co.uk Course: https://www.tauntongolf.co.uk/golf/course-card/

Bull Bay Golf Club - Golf Operations Manager

Employment Status: Full Time Employee Package: Competitive Salary + incentive-based bonus scheme Designed by William Herbert Fowler, Bull Bay Golf Club was officially opened in 1913, a well-established coastal course in a prime tourism area, a respected course with an excellent reputation. A members Club managed by an Executive Committee dedicated to improving the course and the whole golf experience.

The successful candidate will replace our PGA golf professional who is leaving after 25 years.

The role will take responsibility for the golf experience of both members and visitors, alongside commercial development of the golf business. The development will be primarily, but not limited to, increased focus on Sales & Marketing, recruitment & retention of members and attracting increased visitor numbers.

Golf coaching and associated qualifications would be advantageous but not mandatory, golf shop management would be required together with event management for members and visitors.

The Golf Operations Manager would work in conjunction with the Club's Executive Committee to develop a strategic direction for the golf business including building a future Golf Professional presence with emphasis on creating income growth from new and existing revenue streams.

It would also include maintaining and developing relationships with our tourism partners.

Qualities & Experience Personal Attributes Good business acumen Golf qualifications are essential Driven by results Commercial and financial expertise that can be evidenced Knowledge of golf, retail, coaching, event management Willing to deliver change and encourage growth Customer focused Experience in leisure/tourism industry Proficient IT skills Self-motivated Good interpersonal skills Ability to manage the demands/Golf Experience of Positive attitude members and visitors Ability to manage in a cost sensitive environment Apply: Send CV to info@bullbaygc.co.uk The ability to communicate in both Welsh & English is desirClosing Date: March 12th 2021 able but not essential The PGA Professional

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#makinggolfhappen

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E M P LOY M E N T O P P O RT U N I T I E S Astbury Golf Club - PGA Head Professional Established in 1922, Astbury Golf Club is an 18-hole, picturesque parkland course, located on the outskirts of the market town of Congleton, in South Cheshire. We are a private members club, renowned for being friendly and welcoming, with over 550 playing members.

Over the last five years we have invested significantly to enhance the design and playability of our course and the facilities within the club house. Continued investment is seen as vital for the retention and recruitment of members. We are looking to appoint a Head Professional (PGA qualified) to help deliver the club’s objective of driving continuous improvement, while ensuring members and visitors enjoy an outstanding golfing experience.

The successful applicant’s key responsibilities include: 1. Working with the club’s executive to develop and deliver a range of initiatives that increase member’s overall satisfaction, inclusivity and generate additional revenue.

2. Acting as an ambassador for the club and ensuring a warm, courteous and professional welcome for members, visitors and societies.

3. The operation and further development of club’s practice facilities. The club boasts an 11-acre practice area offering a range of facilities (long and short game areas, practice bunker and greens).

4. Organising and growing the club’s junior section.

5. Managing the “shop” and organising the professional team. We are looking to offer our members a good range of merchandise coupled with superior customer service. The club’s executive is open to this being achieved via a traditional “professional retailer” model or a franchise.

6. Providing individual and group coaching.

7. Assisting with the management of both internal and open competitions.

We are looking for an energetic, proactive individual with excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and a passion for customer service. The club will offer a competitive retainer and additional incentives based on membership retention and visitor / society income.

Closing date for applications March 31st 2021 Please forward your CV and proposals via e-mail to honcompsec@astburygolfclub.com or telephone 01260 272772 to arrange a confidential discussion.

Huddersfield Superstore & Moreton Hills GC (Wirral) Retail & Custom Fit Specialist We require a proactive professional to fulfil this exciting role as a Custom Fit & Retail Specialist. You will support the team in maximising retail sales, achieving KPI’s/ Targets set and delivering a high standard of store merchandising.

You will be knowledgeable about golf equipment helping customers to improve their game.

Experience Needed: To be successful at this role candidates will have previous experience in a golf retail environment, be hard working with a can do attitude, be able to deliver great customer service and have experience delivering high quality custom fit sessions using Trackman (or similar).

Package: Your role will include: • A competitive salary with • Delivering Trackman based custom fitting sessions. commission and bonus earning potential.

• Offer customers • 28 days holiday (inclusive knowledgeable advice. of bank holidays).

• Build customer relationships.

• Staff discount.

• Execute high standards of store merchandising.

• Company incentives.

Working Hours: You will be working between 30-40 hours per week on a shift rota basis.

If you think you have the skill set to plugin to our energetic fast paced retail stores then please apply to simoncorp@majorgolfdirect.com

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The Royal Burgess Golfing Society of Edinburgh PGA Trainee Assistant Professional The Royal Burgess Golfing Society of Edinburgh are expanding their golf professional services, which is led by Steve Brian, an accomplished golf professional with many years’ experience, and are seeking to recruit a resourceful, motivated and ambitious Trainee Assistant Professional.

The Royal Burgess Golfing Society has 1100 members and takes great pride in the quality of the course and the commitment to delivering an excellent experience for members and visitors.

The successful applicant will be based within the Golf Professional Shop and the new Trackman powered Performance Studio and will contribute to the overall smooth running of the shop, administration and booking of tee times and must be numerate, articulate and a quick learner.

It is important that the person appointed is a team player, is organised, is extremely positive and personable, is a good effective communicator on the phone, in email and in person and is committed to support any area of the business to deliver the service required.

Closing date for applicants:- Monday 15th March 2021

Letters of application including a CV are to be sent to: Steven Brian, The Royal Burgess Golfing Society, 181 Whitehouse Road, Edinburgh, EH4 6BU Professional@royalburgess.co.uk March 2021

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www.pga.info

E M P LOY M E N T O P P O RT U N I T I E S Elie Links An exciting opportunity has arisen for a training applicant to join our team of Professionals at Elie.

Facilities & Duties • Covered driving range & • Top 50 nationally ranked short-game practice area 18-hole Elie Links course • Custom-Fit Studio with • 9-hole Baird course TrackMan 4 • Tennis courts Duties will include delivering exceptional service to members within the family environment of Elie Sports Club, as well as providing starting duties on the prestigious Elie Links 18-hole course. Excellent teaching opportunities, especially during the busy holiday periods. Guaranteed junior coaching provided during Easter/summer.

Application - To apply please contact mbradfield@hotmail.co.uk with CV and covering letter.

Kings Norton Golf Club, Worcestershire An exciting opportunity, at a club with 1000+ members. The main responsibility is to deliver Individual and group lessons. The role includes some shop hours with the expectation of assisting with custom fitting. Candidates should be pro-active on social media and be ready to work as a team. Email: markjonesgolf@gmail.com No1 Golf Shop, Stone Golf Centre Exciting opportunity for a motivated, hardworking and enthusiastic professional to retail, custom fit with Trackman and teach at one of Staffordshire’s busiest Golf Centres. Retail and Custom fit experience preferred. Fantastic earning potential, and a 5-day working week.

Applications should be emailed to Rob Grier at rob@no1golfshop.co.uk Woodbridge Golf Club An opportunity has arisen for a PGA Qualified/3rd year Trainee Assistant to join a prestigious Private Members Club. Facilities include Swing studio and short game area. The successful applicant must be dedicated to customer service, personable, possess good communication skills, IT literate and a team player.

Apply to Professional@woodbridgegolfclub.co.uk Craig Donnelly Golf Opportunity to join one of Scotland’s fastest growing businesses at our Dundee store. Large Professional team at 3 retail stores, 2 driving ranges & overseas coaching business. Trackman, award winning custom fitting team & large retailer.

Position is suited for highly motivated person who wants to exceed.

Send CV & covering letter to Kevin@craigdonnellygolf.com & Craig@craigdonnnellygolf.com Thorpeness Golf Club & Hotel Join our happy team at Thorpeness, a top 100 golf course. Great opportunity for coaching, playing and career development at this busy holiday destination on the Suffolk Coast. Please send covering letter and cv to Christine Langford, Director of Golf, hristine.langford@thorpeness.co.uk Wells Golf Club Club Fitter/PGA Professional Working alongside our Head Professional, you will: • Have a good working knowledge of custom fitting and club repairs.

• Be able to focus on customer service excellence.

• Take a lead role in the Club fitting/retail department.

• For full job description contact Paul Deeprose, manager@wellsgolfclub.co.uk

The PGA Professional

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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

West Essex Golf Club Exciting opportunity for Year 1 or 2 registered assistant. 20 hours p/w, includes openings to develop junior, beginner, senior and ladies coaching programmes. Must have excellent personal and communication skills, be enthusiastic and hard working. Own car essential. Applications with cover letter and accompanied CV to: chrisbarongolf@gmail.com before March 31.

Sergio Coyle Diez Coach Exciting opportunity for a PGA trainee or qualified assistant. Role includes coaching Individuals, junior and ladies group coaching sessions at one of Ireland busiest driving ranges. Successful candidate will get training and upskilling. Flexible time that will allow for playing time during the season. Please send applications (Cover Letter & CV) info@sergiocoyle.com

INTERNATIONAL Golf Saudi, Saudi Arabia Golf Saudi recently unveiled what is arguably the most ambitious and pioneering strategy in the game’s recent development history.

With this comes the opportunity for experienced PGA Professionals to lead coaching and run various strategic initiatives at two properties.

CV’s and covering letters to be forwarded to steven.troup@golfsaudi.com

TRAINING APPLICANT JOB SEEKER Werner Lourens - wlourens1@gmail.com - 073 878 39542 Training Assistant – North West - Within 50 miles I am a professional golfer with years of experience competing in golf tournaments worldwide. Motivated and driven, I always look for ways to better myself. I already have a lot of knowledge regarding the game, the swing, and tournament golf, but I think gaining a PGA qualification would allow me to better myself and develop into a good golf coach. My previous experience working in a golf retail environment allowed me to develop skills related to customer service and retail.

Training as a PGA professional would allow me to advance my career.

For More information please go to pga.info

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M E M B E R S I N T H E S P OT L I G H T

CAREER PATHWAY I started my career way back in 1991 as a Young Training Scheme (YTS) apprentice working for Brian Lawson at Kirkcaldy Golf Club. After a couple of years, I moved to Stirling Golf Club to work for Ian Collins and started my PGA training. Qualifying in 1994, I wasn’t really sure what to do at first, but I decided to make the move to Germany and go down the teaching professional road. Two years later, I was lucky enough to get an assistant teaching job at Golf Club Hernnhof in Bavaria, Germany, where I was working for fellow Scot, Graeme Glasgow. At first it was pretty tough with very little German speaking skills, but with hard work and a lot of help from my new club members, I managed to pick up the basic language and begin a very happy and successful teaching career in Germany. I moved to Golf Club Herzogenaurach (famous sporting town - home of both ADIDAS and PUMA) in 1999 and I am still very happy at the club. We started with a small nine-hole course and we now have a fantastic 18-hole course with fantastic practice facilities, a Trackman Indoor Golf Centre and more than 1,100 members.

sport. One of the most challenging, but also a great part of my life now, is coaching elite players and teams. This is very demanding and takes a lot of time both with the players and preparation. I am fortunate to have had success with my players and teams which is also a really great feeling and payback for all the effort. One of my players, Matthias Schmid, won the European Amateur Championship in 2019 and defended his title last year.

MILLER THE

CAREER INFLUENCES After I settled into the way of life in Germany, I decided to re-invest some of the money I was making to develop my own golf and knowledge about coaching. I got in contact with Mike Bender (top five coach in America) and spent most of my German off-season’s (winter) with him in Florida.

He’s definitely had the biggest influence on my coaching and I still use all his advice and knowledge in the way I coach today.

GOLFLEHRER Craig Miller left his native Scotland to pursue a coaching career in Germany where despite not speaking the language, he has cemented himself as one of the top PGA coaches in the region.

MY CURRENT ROLE After three years learning the language and getting used to the busy teaching life in Golf Club Hernnhof, I was approached by Golf Club Herzogenaurach and I was asked if I would like to take on the role of Head Professional, helping them transform a small nine-hole club into an 18-hole facility. I guess I was lucky, just being in the right place at the right time. On a typical working day 80 per cent of my time will be coaching and rest is spent organising the daily running of the ‘Golf School’. Over the years, my job has developed and changed, and I currently coach more elite players, as well as the club’s teams and members. However, golf is still a very popular sport in Germany and with many newcomers, the ‘Golf School’ offers many different courses for beginners to the

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learn the game and get their Platzreife (golf certificate to allow them to play on a course).

Usually, I have three-to-four teaching professionals working for me to cover all the work.

THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECTS OF YOUR JOB There is nothing quite like a person coming to you with no golf experience and a blank canvas, and for the coach to develop them into golfers, watch them progress, go on their own to the course, play in tournaments and just enjoying the game. I think this is one of the best feelings for a coach in any

BEST ADVICE I WOULD GIVE If you are interested in teaching and following this career path, Germany is still one the best countries to work in. Golf is a very popular sport here and with the Platzreife system, coaches will never be short of work. The lifestyle and the weather is great, and the people are very nice.

For the right person, Germany can provide a great base for a great career in the golf business.

My advice would be; develop a knowledge of a second language, gather as much varied information about golf coaching and learn coaching skills to make you stand out from other coaches.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS? An easy question for me - where I am now!

I am happily married, I have two children growing up in a great country and I love my job at Golf Club Herzogenaurach.

March 2021

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www.pga.info

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