The PGA Professional - November 2018

The

Professional T H E

O F F I C I A L

P G A

M E M B E R S ’

M A G A Z I N E

Volume 14 Issue 11 November 2018

IT’S OFFICIAL – GOLF IS GOOD FOR YOU! Worldwide backing for health benefits

CHANGE THE WAY YOU THINK ABOUT RETAIL FACEBOOK VALUE

Making your marketing investment pay

NEW RULES

Free regional workshops on next year’s changes

John Paul - PGA Professional Whickham Golf Club

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

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

N O V E M B E R

The

Professional THE OFFICIAL PGA MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE

F E AT U R E S

Coaching: David Colclough Marketing: Antje Derks Contributors: Phil Barnard; golfbreaks.com; Nicole Wheatley; Angela Youngman Editorial assistant: Kelly Lewis Advertising sales: Ben Foster (ben.foster@pgapublishing.co.uk); Keith Foster (keith.foster@pgapublishing.co.uk) Employment opportunities: Yvonne McPhillips (recruitment@pga.org.uk) Photography: Getty Images, Adrian Milledge Design: Barbara Stanley PGA National Headquarters Centenary House The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield West Midlands B76 9PT Tel: 01675 470 333 Fax: 01675 477 888 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 2018 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).

CONTENTS

16 Golf and health

16

How playing – and even spectating – can benefit your physical and mental wellbeing

Editor: Jane Carter PGA News and Features: Steven Carpenter (steven.carpenter@pga.org.uk); Adrian Milledge (adrian.milledge@pga.org.uk)

2 0 1 8

42 New rules for 2019

Regional workshops and the five most significant changes

INSIDE THE PGA

5 6

Building the brand

Expanding PGA commerical partnerships

6

PGA News

Key stories from The PGA and the Regions

14 Tournament Previews And Reviews

Welcome return for PGA Play-Offs; PGA in England and Wales Inter-County Championship

45 Coaching Opinion

Mental health and well-being in elite and professional golf

53 The 2019 PGA Show in Orlando

All the info plus a PGA Member special offer

54 Your PGA Membership Benefits All the latest deals. Go on, treat yourself!

56 Situations Vacant

Opportunities around the country and further afield

R E TA I L I N G

22 Trade News

New products, business news and personnel changes

28

28 Equipment

When it comes to wedges, golfers are spoiled for choice

30 Retail Watch

Your invitation to successful retail; In the Pro Shop with Tony Mealing

34 Fashion

A look at the latest trousers, shorts and skorts

T R AV E L

®PGA, the Crest and PGA Pro – the Heart of Golf are registered trademarks of The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited.

38 Business

Prostate Cancer UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1005541) and in Scotland (SC039332). Registered company 02653887

40 Destination: Spectacular South Africa

How you can use social media to promote your trips

34

Epic courses, great weather and the ‘big five’

41 Top picks

Worldwide options for 2019

40

MARKETING

48 Keeping Your Customers Warm

Ideas for increasing your winter business

50 Your Brand

Making your Facebook presence profitable

Front cover: Golf and health p16

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

www.facebook.com /thepga

www.linked.com/company/ professional-golfers-association

www.twitter.com /thepga

www.instagram.com /thepga

3

Building stronger business relationships

Helping the golf industry do business

Centenary House, The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B76 9PT www.pga.info Ž PGA and The Heart of Golf are registered trademarks of The Professional Golfers’ Association Limited.

THIS MONTH FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Building the brand Commercial revenue is an important pillar for the Association, allowing us to invest in our Members whether it be tournaments, business services or personal support.

This month Liam Greasley our Executive Director – Commercial shares our plans for expanding our commercial partnerships and growing the reach of our brand.

Robert Maxfield, Chief Executive

O

utside winning the Open Championship or being with national or international ‘Seve’, becoming a PGA Professional was the thing footprints.

I wanted to do most. Becoming a PGA Qualified The PGA has a similar Professional was my ticket to the career and the world I wanted to structure when it comes to be successful in. Looking back over a career that has included stints branded properties. PGA overseas, playing, coaching, Club Pro, Director of Golf and club National is the premier management I would never have dreamt that today I would be designation with only one per talking to you as the PGA’s Executive Director – Commercial. country, and PGA Golf Course There have been two significant features during my journey and PGA Golf Academy being in golf that are ever present and as important today as they have the three core designations.

Liam Greasley ever been. The undeniable ability of the PGA Professional to We currently have 17 branded inspire people of all ages, abilities and from every background properties in 15 different to become golfers but perhaps the most important of all is the countries. unique talent of bringing people together. Introducing golfers Looking ahead it’s not only a priority to increase the number who realise opportunities to develop of PGA partners, but also the diversity successful business relationships but of products and services they present most important of all those who go to provide greater support and choice it’s not only a priority to to Members. Expanding our portfolio on to become lifelong friends. It’s just something that the PGA Professional of branded properties domestically increase the number of does, and I would challenge every PGA and internationally will create new PGA partners, but also the opportunities for PGA Members, realise Professional to look back and think of all those people who have more fulfilling diversity of products and enhanced revenues and cement the PGA’s lives because of you. position at the very heart of golf. services they present to These qualities are also the key to The introduction of new initiatives provide greater support like the BRO service and the Member developing successful commercial relationships and to realise value from Benefit site have been well received, while and choice to Members our brand. Arguably the most recognised the development of the PGA OneGolf brand in golf, which enables the PGA Network will enhance our reach to to deliver support and opportunities for the broader golfing community and Members now and for the future. The PGA exists to ‘positively the new PGA Business Club will provide excellent networking impact the personal and professional lives of its Members’. opportunities for new and prospective partners.

While the PGA has many longstanding and successful There is no doubt that there are exciting opportunities ahead relationships it is vital that we continue to develop opportunities both on and off the golf course and I’d be delighted to hear from and remain relevant in an everchanging economic and social anyone who knows of a business or individual that could benefit landscape. from a relationship with the PGA or if you’d simply like more Over the past few months we have redefined the structure information. of the PGA’s commercial partnerships to enable businesses to connect at the level that reflects their scale and relevance to their target audience. For example, becoming an ‘Associate’ would be ideal for a regional or provincial business while ‘PGA Partner and Liam Greasley Principal Partner’ present rights and benefits aimed at businesses Executive Director – Commercial

‘‘

‘‘

The PGA Professional | November 2018

5

News Higgins named PGA Cup vice-captain DAVID HIGGINS admits the PGA Cup holds a special place in his heart after being named as Cameron Clark’s second vice-captain for the clash with America in Texas next year.

Irishman Higgins was one of the standout

“Playing in the 2017 PGA Cup was a special week so to know I’m going to be involved again is fantastic and I’m really looking forward to it,” said Higgins. I didn’t realise what an honour it is to play for your country.

performers as Great Britain & Ireland com-

“It will be a different feeling being there

fortably beat the United States at Foxhills

as vice-captain but I think I’ll enjoy it just as

Club & Resort last September.

much. if it’s anything like Foxhills it’s going to

The 45-year-old claimed three-and-half

be one hell of a week. If Cam, Rob and I can

points on his PGA Cup debut as Albert

re-produce something like that again we’ll

MacKenzie’s side secured back-to-back vic-

have done a fantastic job.”

tories over their American counterparts.

Calming influence: David Higgins

Commenting on Higgins’ appointment,

Higgins will join up with fellow former

Clark added: “David is a very calm and

European Tour player Rob Coles as vice-cap-

calculated individual. He thinks about

tain to Clark as Great Britain and Ireland bid

things long and hard and he’ll then provide

to make history by winning three consecutive

his rational view. That’s what I really like

matches in the competition at Barton Creek

about him. We’ll have the vocal influence

Resort in Austin, Texas, where the match will

from Rob (Coles) and that calming influence

take place from September 27-29.

from Dave.”

PGA remembers fallen World War One soldiers THE PGA is determined to commem-

Members can visit this fantastic web-

week after Robert ‘Bertie’ McDougall,

orate every Member who died during

site and read some fascinating stories.”

who was a fellow PGA Professional

the First World War through a special

Every Member who died during the

from the same Scottish town Bridge

remembrance website.

‘Every One Remembered’ has been created by The Royal British Legion to ensure those who lost their lives can never be forgotten.

First World War has a story to tell, but some are perhaps poignant and more tragic than others.

Barr was killed by shrapnel during the Battle of Ancre and on the same

Robert Barr enlisted into the 15th

day a sniper’s bullet killed McDougall.

Battalion Highland Light Infantry a

They are both buried at the Munich

The website provides information

Trench British Cemetery within four

about over one million service men and

graves of each other.

women, including details about where

James Milligan was a Member based

they were born, where they died and

at Wyoming Valley Country Club at

in some cases stories about their life.

Wilkes-Barre,

Pennsylvania.

After

Dr Philip Weaver (OBE), former

learning about the deaths of all three

chairman and now curator of heritage

of his brothers during the war, Mil-

at The PGA, has been researching

ligan returned home to his mother but

details for 105 past PGA Members.

after enlisting with the Highland Light

“We are determined never to forget

Infantry, he too fell in action on April 11,

those Members who bravely fought for

1917 during the Battle of Arras, leaving

their country and sadly lost their lives

a mother left grieving all four sons.

Read more stories by visiting: www.

during the Great war.

“Fellow PGA Members and non-PGA

6

of Weir.

Robert ‘Bobby’ Barr

everyoneremembered.org

www.pga.info

News Save money through Smarter Golf Energy PGA MEMBERS can save on average £361 a year by switching energy suppliers through Smarter Golf Energy’s free and user-friendly website.

As official PGA Partners, Smarter Golf Energy seeks to support The PGA in its

endeavours

England Golf Awards 2019

Golf Energy is the trustworthy energy partner for not only PGA Members, but also their affiliated golf clubs,” said Smarter Golf Energy director and former PGA Member Stuart Harris.

“We can provide the golf club manager or

to

secretary with full sup-

promote and develop

port and the best deal

the game – and the

available as recom-

energy

mended by the PGA

solutions’

company a

is

taking

Member,

multi-faceted

approach

ensuring they have

through

contributed a valuable

their expertise.

The

recommendation for

comparison

the financial benefit

tool provides PGA Members

with

therefore

a

powerful opportunity to drive new revenue

of his or her club.”

Simon Rand and Stuart Harris (Smarter Golf Energy Directors), PGA Executive Director – Commercial Liam Greasley, and Vernon Simons (Smarter Golf Energy Director).

and benefit from significant savings.

The switching

benefit

of

through

Smarter Golf Energy

has also extended to the PGA Benevolent

The Smarter Golf Energy website can

Fund – a charity that offers help and support

secure Members the lowest gas and electrical

to PGA Members suffering hardship or

tariffs on the market. Using this tool,

distress.

Members stand to save an average of £361

Smarter Golf Energy will donate all profits

by switching suppliers, as well as save valuable

from the PGA Member comparison site,

time, which could be invested in instruction

providing a welcome and substantial boost to

and coaching, retail, and development within

the fund and assisting fellow golfers in need.

the golfing industry.

Start saving by visiting www. smartergolfenergy.co.uk

“My goal is to demonstrate that Smarter

PGA MEMBERS are encouraged to put their names forward and nominate themselves for the England Golf 2019 Coach of the Year accolade.

The award, which is once again sponsored by The PGA, aims to identify a PGA Professional whose passion, skills and commitment helps grow the game.

Nominees must demonstrate how they inspire new players, support existing golfers and realise the ambitions and potential of promising talent. Coaches also have to show how they have developed their own skills, as well as new ideas and initiatives.

Last year Matthew Turnock (Mottram Golf Club) was named Coach of the Year for helping to introduce more than 500 adults to the game through his ‘Get into Golf course. In 2017 Ben Knight (Chartham Park Golf Club) was the winner, while James Verrall (Haywards Heath Golf Club) was runner-up.

Also in 2018, Anders Mankert was presented with the Lifetime Service Award for helping make golf more inclusive.

The other award categories are Most Welcoming Club of the Year, Lifetime Service Award, Volunteer of the Year, Young Ambassador of the Year, County of the Year and the Innovation Award.

The winners will be selected by a panel of judges and announced at a glamorous black-tie dinner at the Royal Lancaster, London on Thursday 21 March 2019.

The closing date for nominations is midnight on Friday 30 November 2018.

PGA National Properties on show in Slovenia THE PGA hosted four of its National Properties at the International Golf Travel Market in Slovenia last month.

Representatives were exhibited as a group under the PGA National Properties brand, located at Stand 2G71, at the event from October 15-18.

Joining the Association at the initial launch of the PGA National Properties family in Slovenia were representatives from Aphrodite Hills (PGA National Cyprus), The Oaks (PGA National Czech Republic, which is currently under construction), The Belfry (PGA National England) and Antalya Golf Club / Kempinski Hotel The Dome (the PGA National Turkey).

Commenting on The PGA’s attendance at the IGTM,

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

Guy Moran, Head of Property and Development said: “Each facility represents the very best in golf and hospitality in their country and we wanted to provide them each with a platform to engage with their travel buyers retaining their own facility identity but simultaneously emphasising their part in the PGA National Properties group, of which we are tremendously proud.

“We hope this provides each with a cost effective way to maximise their exposure at the IGTM and may also bring broader awareness of the PGA National brand which The PGA is keen to expand by securing license deals with other leading facilities in many other countries.”

7

News The PGA speaks to Parliamentary Golf Group REPRESENTATIVES FROM The

“Golf is a sport for all, which

PGA met with the All-Party

delivers a range of benefits at

Parliamentary Golf Group to talk

both the local and national level,

about the organisation’s work in

and the Parliamentary Golf Group

the sport.

is committed to ensuring that

Members of Parliament and

the positive contributions that

Peers were joined by the group’s

organisations such as The PGA

Honorary and Associate Members,

make are heard.”

as well as the Association’s chief

Warwickshire and All-Party

executive, Robert Maxfield, who

Parliamentary Golf Group Co-Chair,

of The PGA, added: “It was an

made a presentation.

Craig Tracey MP. He said “The PGA

honour to meet with Members of

are based in my constituency, and

the All-Party Parliamentary Golf

a discussion of The PGA’s

do fantastic work to grow the

Group, and to discuss The PGA’s

heritage and history, key member

game across the United Kingdom,

aims and vision.

categories and their reach to

both by educating and training

amateur golfers, investment in

PGA Professionals and through a

working closely with the Group to

the game, and the Association’s

range of other initiatives.”

ensure that the health, social and

At the meeting, there was

involvement in the Ryder Cup.

Group Co-Chair and Member

“We look forward to continuing

economic benefits of the sport are

Chairing the meeting was

of Parliament for North East Fife,

realised at both local and national

Member of Parliament for North

Stephen Gethins MP, commented:

level.”

Fresh start for Mankert AWARD-WINNING PGA coach Anders Mankert has launched the first phase of his exciting new venture at the former home of Oadby Golf Course in Leicester.

Mankert, a PGA Advanced Fellow, took charge of the facility after leasing nine holes Anders Mankert of the course, which he has renamed The Gallops.

Over the last few months Mankert has built a highly sophisticated 16-bay, floodlit driving range. Each bay is connected to a Toptracer touch screen television, set to appeal to experienced golfers and beginners alike.

The Gallops is set to fully open after Christmas and will have no dress code, with Mankert hoping it will attract a new audience to the game.

Mankert commented: “It is a long held ambition of mine to have my own golf course, so this is a highly exciting time in my career.

“My wife, Pippa, assistant PGA pro Tom James, and my young head greenkeeper Adam Preston, will be working with me at this new golf centre and we will combine to create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, so that all visitors can enjoy themselves whenever they come along.”

8

Robert Maxfield, chief executive

Free initiative pays off A PRESTIGIOUS Scottish golf club has welcomed seven new members after allowing women and children to play its course for free throughout the whole of September.

Gleddoch Golf Course, near Glasgow, wanted to attract prospective members to see recent improvements at the course.

The idea came from the club’s head of golf management, PGA Professional Karl Salmoni.

As well as waiving green fees, for women and children, the hotel, golf and spa resort allowed anyone joining in September to sign up for 18 months for the cost of 12.

Salmoni, said: “I thought if we can get the ladies and juniors down to Gleddoch to see the new facilities on offer in the upcoming months, it would let them know we have something here for everyone.

“I will do this again in the near future.

Even if I only manage to attract one new member it’s worth it.”

www.pga.info

News A bright future for golf coaching

Kevin Merry and John Glenn

TWO HERTFORDSHIRE-BASED PGA Professionals have developed an innovative new approach to golf coaching that uses a colour-coded system to bring visual simplicity to golf.

COLOUR PATH GOLF® is the brainchild of Kevin Merry and John Glenn and is already being used by more than 70 coaches across the UK. Coaches place shapes in the four primary colours on the

Exciting changes for 2019 Pro-Am Tour THE PRO-AM Tour has made an encouraging start under the ownership of PGA Professional Craig Trower, with 23 teams already confirmed for events in Arizona and California this year.

Plans for 2019 are well underway with three updates confirmed to the schedule.

The Pinehurst Classic Pro-Am is now a 72-hole event taking in the No.2 Course, which will host the 2024 US Open, the newly renovated No. 4, No. 8 and No. 9 course, and the trip also includes a nine-hole welcome event on ‘The Cradle’, Pinehurst’s fabulous par-three course.

The PLAYERS Championship has moved from May to March, giving PGA Professionals a chance to jump-start their season a little earlier at the famous Sawgrass venue.

Finally, the Pro-Am Tour at Pebble Beach takes place just two weeks before the 2019 US Open, an occurrence that only happens once every 10 years.

PGA Professionals are incentivised through a ’Members Club’ which Trower fully encourages. “With up to a £700 bonus on offer, there should be few excuses to try and get a team together during our off-peak months.”

2019 Pro-Am Tour dates: Scottsdale Classic 2nd–9th February Pinehurst Classic 3rd–8th April Sawgrass Classic 18th–24th March Pro-Am Tour at Pebble Beach 23rd–28th May

ground to create simple, easy-to-follow maps which give greater clarity to the path that the golf club should follow to hit the perfect shot.

The method eliminates the need for complicated technical explanations and breaks down any communication barriers between coach and pupil. The concept can be adapted to any player and any shot.

“Essentially, our training concept uses colour as a visual aid to influence physical responses throughout various parts of the swing,” explains Merry.

The concept is based around ‘external focus’; a method that has been scientifically proven by Dr Gabriele Wulf at The University of Nevada to accelerate learning and improve performance.

Glenn added: “We are dedicated to making golf easier to learn for pupils of all ages and abilities, so it’s really exciting to share our knowledge with more people.

“All we want to do is make the game more simple and enjoyable and, in doing so, increase participation and

Parr calls time on coaching career NIGEL PARR has retired after spending over four decades as a PGA Professional at Liverpool’s Childwall Golf Club.

The 63-year-old originally trained as an assistant under the auspices John Jarman, the son of 1935 Ryder Cup player Ted, prior to moving the Warwick Driving Range.

His next, and final move, a year later was to Childwall where he became the club’s fourth professional, having joined The PGA at the start of 1975.

Parr successfully trained seven assistants at Childwall who became qualified PGA members, including his replacement at Childwall Carl Smith.

retention.”

10

www.pga.info

News Hat-trick hero Hutcheon GREIG HUTCHEON held off a two-pronged challenge from the O’Hara brothers – Paul and Steven – to complete a hat-trick of wins in the M&H Logistics Scottish PGA Championship.

The 45-year-old pipped the siblings by a shot after a thrilling last-day battle on the King’s Course at Gleneagles to add to earlier victories in the Tartan Tour’s flagship event in 1999 and 2013.

Hutcheon, who had started the day tied for the lead with Paul, the younger of the O’Hara’s, secured a £9,000 top prize by closing with a 68.

“This possibly feels better than the first two,” said Hutcheon, who is attached to Paul Lawrie Golf Centre outside Aberdeen.

“I’m 46 in March and to come back from thinking my body is giving up and shoot 12-under for four days gives me hope. I’m pretty chuffed.”

Cranwell’s inclusive pledge TOM CRANWELL has helped welcome three young men with autism into golf as part Durham City’s pledge to be an inclusive club.

Working with the North East Autism Society, the club introduced Steve, Lewis and Mark to golf with the trio developing their skills on the practice area, putting green and on the course with PGA Professional Cranwell.

The successful venture has been part-funded by England Golf after Durham City signed up to its Inclusive Club Pledge.

As a result, the club will receive support to improve the experience of disabled people, bring inclusive thinking into the planning of further activities and build further links within their community.

Cranfield, who is coaching disabled adults for the first time, commented: “These sessions have been not only enjoyable but very rewarding personally and as a coach I have also learned such a lot.”

Clubs interested in learning more about the pledge should email: inclusiveclub@englandgolf.org

Double delight for Thornton SIMON THORNTON (Tulfarris Golf Resort) won the rain affected 108th Irish PGA Championship for a second time at Galway Bay Golf Resort.

An opening round of 71 left the 41-year-old three shots behind leader Richard Kilpatrick (Banbridge GC).

The remnants of Storm Callum forced the second round to be halted and heavy rain battered the players when they returned to complete round two. With the forecast promising further heavy rain, PGA officials declared Thornton the winner after 36 holes.

“I’m delighted to win,” said the Newcastle-based player, who also won the Irish PGA Championship at Seapoint in 2011.

“Traditionally I always start the season pretty poorly, it doesn’t matter what Tour I am playing on. I said to myself back in February that I wasn’t going to let it happen this year and I put some more work in so I could compete straight away and that paid dividends.”

Kilpatrick took the runner-up sport and David Higgins (Waterville Links) settled for third place.

Foxhills catering for stars of tomorrow OVER 100 children have been introduced to golf thanks to a special junior programme run by the experienced team of PGA Professionals at Foxhills Club & Resort in Surrey.

‘Foxstars’ was launched last September and is aimed at developing the next generation of golfers. The fun and engaging programme is for children of all abilities aged between five and 16.

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

The sessions include instruction, challenges and interactive competitions, while each player receives a golf cap and log book to keep tabs on their journey.

Chris Fitt, Director of Golf at Foxhills and a graduate of the AGMS degree programme, said the programme is one of a number of ways the club is looking to attract more players.

He said: “We held an open day for the Golf Foundation which

attracted many local juniors who were non-members.

“We have an annual open event for national women in June, with the aim of attracting non-golfing women to the club.

“We also launched a new membership category; ‘Learn to Love Golf’, which is essentially a two-year progressive membership for beginners where the PGA professionals prepare new golfers to become golf course ready.”

11

News Education a key word for ‘fab four’ in Qatar FOUR PGA Members have played an integral role in the development of Education City Golf Club – a new golf facility set to open in Qatar in the new year.

The 33-hole course has been designed by Jose Maria Olazábal and was (Left to right) Rhys Beecher, David White, developed in line with Michael Braidwood and Anthony Caira USGA standards with the fairways, greens, tees and White aims to promote golf locally in rough all allowing for superior playing sur- Qatar and Internationally having arrived faces and minimal irrigation. from a posting in the Sultanate of Oman The club’s Director of Golf, Rhys where he was promoting and managing Beecher, has been part of the project since the NBO Oman Open, now a European 2015 and has been supporting the contrac- Tour event. tors and course designers in achieving the Both White and Caira have achieved the landmark project.

PGA Director of Golf qualification, along General Manager, Michael Braidwood, with Beecher. is an Advanced Fellow of the PGA has “Education City Golf Club is a facility been part of the project since September built around Education and develop2018. ment,” said Braidwood. “Employing three David White was appointed as Sales PGA Qualified Director of Golf ’s supand Marketing Director, while Anthony ports our vision for education and human Caira came on board as Head Golf development. All three have quite different Professional. roles, but I have the comfort in knowing Caira will head up the Centre of Excel- that each of them have the full knowledge lence, which is a state-of-the-art facility and understanding of all the necessary that combines ultramodern technology. functions to run an upscale facility.”

Gleneagles named European Golf Resort of the Year GLENEAGLES, THE home of The PGA National Scotland, has been named European Golf Resort of the Year 2019 by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators.

The five-star resort in Perthshire includes a PGA Academy and the award coincides with its preparations for two major golfing milestones next year: the centenary of the King’s and Queen’s courses, and the hosting of the Solheim Cup on the PGA Centenary Course, which also staged the 2014 Ryder Cup. Meanwhile, Formby Hall, the location of the first PGA National Residential Golf Academy in the UK, has had plans to build a twostorey clubhouse approved.

The new building at the 76-bedroom property near Liverpool will complement the resort’s championship and ninehole par three courses, a 27-bay driving range, fully equipped teaching academy, golf shop and health spa.

Gleneagles: European Golf Resort of the Year 2019

Putting course subsidiary benefits Hanson SIMON HANSON is making a big difference in his new role as Head PGA Professional at Kemnay Golf Club, by becoming a Certified Putting Instructor (CPI).

Hanson only started at the Aberdeenshire club this year and has already taken advantage of a special PGA in Scotland subsidiary offer to complete the CPI course.

He said: “I had seen the course through The PGA and thought it would be good to refresh my training and get up to date on the ideas and principles of putting.

“I really enjoyed learning about the ways in which putters are designed and learning more about

12

putter technology. I see the CPI Course as a notch on my belt and a good qualification for developing my coaching skills.”

Hanson was based at the Paul Lawrie Golf Centre for four years, but was keen to take on a new challenge and run his own business at Kemnay, having studied business at university in Edinburgh. He is now in the process of converting an area of his pro shop to create an indoor putting studio.

“The indoor putting studio will enhance my business and allow me to work on putter fittings and lessons – whatever the weather,” Hanson added.

www.pga.info

T O U R N A M E N T S

Welcome return for PGA Play-Offs A high quality field will contest next month’s PGA Play-Offs when they return to Antalya Golf Club after a two-year absence, writes Adrian Milledge.

A

line-up that includes a quartet of previous winners, a quintet of PGA Professional Champions and a victor on this season’s Staysure Tour is testament to the high quality of the field competing in this year’s PGA Play-Offs.

The quartet comprises last year’s champion, Rob Coles, Matt Cort his predecessor, Greig Hutcheon and two-time winner Richard Wallis.

The quintet, meanwhile, is made up of Sion Bebb, Paul O’Hara, last year’s runner up, David Higgins, Paul Hendriksen and Andrew Willey, the reigning champion.

They will be joined in the quest for the £3,500 first prize on the PGA Sultan Course at Antalya Golf Club, Turkey, by David Shacklady, the winner of the VTB Russian Open Golf Championship (Senior) on the Staysure Tour.

In addition to a portion of the £25,000 prize fund, which guarantees each of the 24 competitors at least £500, players finishing in the top four qualify for next season’s BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth in September.

For Willey, who won the Titleist and FootJoy PGA Professional Championship at Little Aston in July and also finished

Right: Jack Winer Below: Andrew Willey

second in The PGA Midlands Order of Merit, that is a major incentive.

“I’ve been through to the Play-Offs three times before but I’ve not pushed on from there and qualified for Wentworth,” said Willey, who represents Oakmere Park, Nottinghamshire.

“I missed out when we had 10 spots by losing in a play-off and that was a big disappointment. Playing at Wentworth is a goal I’ve set myself and is the next step for me.

“I’m also very keen to play in the PGA Cup next year and I’ve made a good start in that respect by winning at Little Aston.”

Jack Winer has also won a national tournament this year, albeit in tandem with James Watts.

The pair were victorious at Belton Woods

THE VENUE This year’s PGA Play-Offs are returning to The PGA National Turkey, Kempinski and Antalya Golf Resort after an absence of two years. The 54-hole tournament will be contested over the par-71, 7083 yards PGA Sultan Course, as it was from 2011-15. Commenting on the venue, Andrew Willey said: “I played in the Play-Offs when they were held at Antalya four years ago. I loved it out there – it’s a fantastic golf course and I’m looking forward to playing there again.”

14

in the Golfbreaks.com PGA Fourball Championship and Winer followed up by winning the East Region Championship six days later.

The victory went a long way towards ensuring Winer finished in the top three of his region’s Order of Merit and earn a place in the PGA Play-Offs.

“That was one of my goals at the start of the year,” said Winer, who represents Abridge Golf and Country Club in Essex.

“To finish third behind Jason Levermore who has been the East Region’s star man for several years and Rob Coles, a former European Tour player, is really pleasing.

“My confidence was sky-high after those two wins and I’m hoping to carry that into the Play-Offs.

“Looking forward, the Play-Offs offer huge opportunities – to play at Wentworth and in the British Masters. The winner also earns a place in the 2019 PGA Cup team and, to me, there’s no greater achievement than representing The PGA.” COMPETITORS – PGA East: Robert Coles (Maylands Golf & Country Club), Jason Levermore (Little Channels Golf Centre), Jack Winer (Abridge Golf and Country Club).

PGA in Ireland: David Higgins (Waterville Golf Links), Michael McGeady (Evolve Golf Coaching), Simon Thornton (Tulfarris Golf Resort). PGA Midlands: Paul Bradshaw (Holme Hall), Matthew Cort (Beedles Lake), James Whatley (Morley Hayes Golf), Andrew Willey (Oakmere Park). PGA North: Robert Booth (Outlane Golf Club), David Shacklady (Mossock Hall), David Smith (Swinton Park).

PGA Scotland: Alastair Forsyth (Mearns Castle), Graham Fox (Clydeway Golf), Greig Hutcheon (Paul Lawrie Golf Centre), Paul O’Hara (North Lanarkshire Leisure Ltd).

PGA South: Michael Bullen (Rustington Golf Centre), Chris Gane (Lefthanded Golf at Silvermere), Richard Wallis (Canterbury Golf Club). PGA West: Sion Bebb (Morlais Castle), Lee Corfield (Burnham & Berrow); David Dixon (Enmore Park), Paul Hendriksen (Ivybridge Golf Club).

www.pga.info

T O U R N A M E N T S

PGA in England and Wales Inter-County Championship Essex made a successful defence of the PGA in England and Wales Inter-County Championship at The Belfry to become the first team to win the tournament twice, writes Adrian Milledge.

County kings: (from left) James Scade, Jason Levermore and Brett Taylor

E

ssex relied on the same line up of Jason Levermore, Brett Taylor and James Scade to claim the trophy and £4,000 first prize.

And the stage for their victory, the PGA National course at the four time Ryder Cup venue, was also the same.

The manner of their triumph, however, was at odds with the way the tournament reached its conclusion 12 months ago.

There was no need for a tension-laden play-off this time as the seven-shot advantage they established in the first of the two rounds proved decisive.

The tournament was theirs to lose and although Nottinghamshire and Surrey both posted better scores in the second round than the winners-elect, retrieving the deficit proved beyond them.

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

With the best two scores from each trio counting, Nottinghamshire, inspired by another sub-par round from Lee Clarke posted a two-under-par total to finish on one-over for the tournament.

That was matched by Surrey who were level par at the start of the day.

The Essex response of three-over-par was in sharp contrast with the high-octane golf they produced in the first round.

Once again, however, Levermore was their main man. His round of level par took his score for the tournament to five-under and, in tandem with Clarke, its best performing individual.

Meanwhile, Taylor executed the shot of the tournament – a hole-in-one at the par three 11th.

Despatched by a seven-iron, the ball

bounced once before landing in the hole for the 16th ace of Taylor’s career.

With Essex winning the event by five shots, the hole-in-one ensured their advantage remained healthy and any eleventh hour wobbles were avoided.

“It was the most important of the 16,” joked Levermore, his humour tinged with a degree of seriousness. “The wind made it tougher today – that played a big part.”

Leading scores Essex

-4

Nottinghamshire

+1

Surrey

+1

Devon

+4

Lancashire

+14

15

G O L F

A N D

H E A L T H

Golf is good for you!

P

It’s official, playing golf is good for your health! But just what are those benefits and how can playing the game help improve people’s lives while also stopping diseases? Steven Carpenter delves deeper to find out…

eople of all ages, ability and gender play golf for a variety of reasons.

Whether it be twice a week at a local course to improve their game, or meeting up with friends at the weekend to de-stress after a busy working week.

For many PGA Members, their working week revolves around golf, both coaching and playing. But how many people take time to stop and think about how beneficial a round of golf, whether it be six, nine or 18 holes, can be to your health and mind?

There have been various studies looking into this subject, and one that perhaps was a catalyst for others to follow was carried out by the Swedish medical university in 2008.

The study, produced by the Karolinksa

Institute in Stockholm, showed that from data collected from 300,000 Swedish players, the death rate amongst golfers was 40 per cent less compared to the rest of the population. This equates to an increased life expectancy of five years.

“A round of golf means being outside for four or five hours, walking at a pace for six to seven kilometres, something which is good for the health,” said Professor Anders Ahlbom, who led the study.

“Maintaining a low handicap involves playing a lot, so this supports the idea that it is the game itself that is good for the health.”

Kevin Barker, Director – Golf Development, R&A says: “We have been involved in the Golf and Health project for three

years now, working closely with the World Golf Foundation. It was clear that the health benefits of playing golf was an area worth investigating and researching. We want to encourage more people of all ages and abilities to play golf by communicating the health benefits, while hopefully alerting decision makers, governments, health care providers and sports bodies to the advantages of promoting participation in our sport.”

So when you’re next out on the course, whether it be for a social round, a tournament qualifier or during a lesson an amateur, make sure you spread the word; along with its many other benefits, perhaps most importantly, golf is good for your health and wellbeing.

DID YOU KNOW? In a nine-hole round of golf, a player will walk two to three miles, take over 5,000 steps and burn over 450 calories.

In 2016, researchers at The University of Edinburgh, led by Dr Andrew Murray, conducted the most comprehensive study of golf and health.

The review found that golfers live longer than non-golfers, playing the game improves cholesterol levels and body composition, while also appearing to improve wellness and self-confidence.

The study also highlighted golf is expected to decrease the risk of more than 40 major chronic diseases.

Dr Murray commented: “Golf can provide health benefits for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Golf provides moderate intensity physical activity, which is recommended by the World Health Organisation for its key role in improving life expectancy, helping prevent over 40 major chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart attacks and strokes and improving mental health.”

16

www.pga.info

3

is working to assess the health and wellbeing benefits of golf, aiming to help drive an increased interest and participation in golf, and to improve the public image of the sport.

1

G O L F

Golf and Physical Activity

non-golfers

chronic conditions

- 36 to 68%

Hip Fractures

- 30 to 40%

Diabetes

A N D

H E A L T H

- 20 to 35%

CVD, Stroke

5

Golf & Physical Health

- 30%

Colon Cancer

- 20 to 30%

Depression / Dementia

Cancer

- 20%

Breast Cancer

Aerobic

Muscle Strengthening

Moderate intensity for most people

2

Spectating Research required

Research required

4

Golfers Live Longer

Regular PA =

Golf Golfers can improve known risk live factors longer for CVD

VS./ decreased risk colon breast cancer

Golf can provide moderate intensity physical activity using a golf cart or walking the course - 3.5 METs - 6000 steps - 4 miles - 600 kcal/18holes

5

- 4.8 METs - 11-17000 steps - 4-8 miles - 1200 kcal/18holes

compared to non-golfers Consult a doctor

Skin cancer Wear sunscreen, protective clothing, Golf & Physical Health seek shade

before playing golf if unstable cardiac symptoms present

Cancer

Cardiovascular

Musculoskeletal

Respiratory

Regular PA =

MORE health benefits by walking the course

Golf can improve known risk factors for CVD

decreased risk colon / breast cancer

Consult a doctor before playing Regular participation golf if unstable cardiac symptoms golf present

Skin cancer -

- 30 to 40% - 20 to 35%

CVD, Stroke

- 30%

Colon Cancer

- 20 to 30%

Depression / Dementia

- 20%

Breast Cancer

4

Incidence of injury moderate, injury rate per hour low. Back, elbow, and wrist most common

Golfers Live Longer

Cardiovascular

Gary Player, nine-time Major champion “The systematic Regular and academic confirmation of the physical and PA = Golf can improve known risk factors for CVD mental benefits golf gives people will be of great use to us all to decreased risk colon / cancer Consult spread the word breast to institutions, governments and thea doctor entire world!”

Skin cancer Wear sunscreen, protective clothing, seek shade

before playing golf if unstable cardiac symptoms present

Annika Sorenstam, ten-time Major champion “As the recent international consensus statement highlighted, golf is Musculoskeletal Respiratory great for the health of people of all ages – it benefits those playing the sport and even tournament spectators. Given the health benefits, we must work together to ofmake if we areinto achieve Incidence injury golf more accessible Regular participation moderate, injury rate per golf our sport’s full hour potential.” low. Back, elbow, and =

wrist most common

Improved balance and

Mental health & Wellness

Self Esteem

health & Wellness GolfMental has 6 SelfSelf Esteem wellness Worth Golf has benefits wellness Self Worth

Self Confidence

Self Confidence

Golf and mental health needs more research Golf and mental health needs more research

KEY KEY

METS - Metabolic equivalent [unit

CVD - Cardiovascular Disease

of measure of heat production [unit by PA - Physical METS - Metabolic equivalent CVD -Activity Cardiovascular Disease the body.] of measure of heat production by PA - Physical Activity KCAL - Calorie unit of measurement the body.]

KCAL - Calorie unit of measurement Murray, AD., Daines L., Archibald, D., Schiphorst, C., Hawkes, R., Kelly, P., Grant, L., Mutrie, N. British Journal of Sports Medicine 2016

Golf & Physical Health

5 What golfers tell us...

= improved and maintained lung function in older adults

Improved balance and strength in older adults

benefits

Golfers live longer compared to non-golfers

VS.

Cancer

6

maintained lung function in older adults

Regular participation in golf

INCREASED

Diabetes

Respiratory improved and

Improved balance and strength in older adults

- 36 to 68%

Hip Fractures

in

=

Musculoskeletal

INCREASED

3

Incidence injury Wearof sunscreen, clothing, moderate, protective injury rate per seek shade hour low. Back, elbow, and wrist most common

Physical activity is associated with reduced risks of chronic conditions

Cardiovascular

improved and maintained lung function in older adults

INCREASED

Padraig Harrington, threestrength in older adults time Major champion “The Golf and Health Project is Mental health & Wellness clearly taking an important step for6 ward to shine a light on the benefitsSelf Esteem Golf of our sport.

I’mhas really pleased to wellness be involved as an ambassador and ISelf Worth benefits hope I can help spread this message.

Self Confidence “For me being healthy and happy Golf and mental health needs more research is key to enjoying my own game and KEY how impactful golf can be on throughout my career I have seen METS - Metabolic equivalent [unit CVD - Cardiovascular Disease measure of heat production by to PA Activity out there.” people’sof wellbeing – now it’s time get- Physical this message

www.golfandhealth.org Murray, AD., Daines L., Archibald, D., Schiphorst, C., Hawkes, R., Kelly, P., Grant, L., Mutrie, N. BritishVector Journal of ofSports Medicine 2016 graphics courtesy Freepik - www.freepik.com

www.golfandhealth.org

DID YOU KNOW?

Vector graphics courtesy of Freepik - www.freepik.com

Walking 2.5 hours per week reduces the risk of having a heart attack by 30-40 per cent.

A hot topic of debate in recent months has been the increasing risk of type 2 diabetes. It is estimated that if nothing is done to tackle the condition, more than five million people will have diabetes in the UK by 2025.

Golf can provide regular exercise to prevent a person’s chances of getting type 2 diabetes by up to 40 per cent, while studies specific to the game show beneficial effects on blood sugar.

It is now known to prevent cardiovascular disease, which is responsible for over 30 per cent of worldwide deaths per year. It is also considered to be a suitable activity for cardiac and stroke rehabilitation patients.

Golf is unique in that spectators can potentially enjoy the same health benefits when they attend an event as those playing in them.

In 2017, it was found that fans who go to watch their favourite sporting heroes at an event averaged 11,589 steps per day, with just under 83 per cent achieving their recommended daily step-count (10,000).

the body.]

KCAL - Calorie unit of measurement

| November 2018 The PGA Professional Murray, AD., Daines L., Archibald, D., Schiphorst, C., Hawkes, R., Kelly, P., Grant, L., Mutrie, N. British Journal of Sports Medicine 2016

17

G O L F

A N D

DID YOU KNOW?

Golf spectators at the 2014 Ryder Cup collectively walked FOUR times around the world.

The research was collected at the European Tour’s 2016 Paul Lawrie Match Play and suggested spectators at golf events rated getting exercise as highly as seeing their favourite golfers in action.

At the 2014 Ryder Cup, more than 20,000 spectators tagged themselves at all checkpoints locations at Gleneagles, meaning they had walked five miles each.

“It is important to hear that spectators not only see some of the best sporting theatre on earth, but can potentially gain health benefits themselves,” said Stephen Gethins MP, Chairperson for the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf.

H E A L T H

“The All-Party Group for Golf and the Westminster parliament note the importance of these events economically and culturally, but these health benefits and potential legacy further emphasise the importance of supporting golf and world-class golf events on these shores and beyond.”

As well as physical and health benefits, golf also provides a key social element for players of all ages and abilities.

It doesn’t matter about your age, ability or gender, the golf course is an a social place and provides people with down-time, away from the stress of work.

It provides individuals with an opportunity to meet up with friends and spend a few hours in great surroundings, whether it be a warm summer evening or an early autumnal morning.

Golf and health gains international recognition

T

he health and wellbeing benefits of playing golf were internationally recognised last month at the world’s flagship physical activity and public health event.

More than 1,000 delegates from 60 countries attended the 7th Congress of the International Society for Physical Activity and Health (ISPAH) in London.

Evidence linking golf and health, commissioned by the World Golf Foundation and supported by The R&A, was presented to delegates.

Leaders in public health, public policy and sport backed golf in the race to tackle physical inactivity and the prevention of non-communicable disease, including heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

Martin Slumbers, Chief Executive of The R&A, said: “Golf is working hard to encourage more people into the sport who will realise its many health benefits.

“With 60 million golfers spanning six continents, golf has found common purpose in working with public health practitioners and policymakers to optimise the health benefits of playing the sport. We recognise the importance of the WHO Global Action Plan for Physical Activity and we will work with our affiliates and partners around the world to help improve health and wellbeing through golf”.

Recognition that playing golf has significant physical health and wellness benefits and can provide moderate intensity physical activity to persons of all ages, comes just months after the World Health Organization (WHO) published its Global Action Plan for Physical Activity.

The Global Action Plan targets one in four adults, and four out of five adolescents (11-17 years) who are insufficiently active and charts how countries can reduce physical inactivity in adults and adolescents by 15% through 2030.

Professor Fiona Bull, WHO Programme Manager, Non18

Annika Sorenstam joined R&A, government and World Golf Foundation officials at the ISPAH Congress, London

Communicable Disease Prevention, added: “Golf is a popular sport for men and women and it is great to see golf ’s global leadership recognising health priorities and identifying ways golf can be more accessible to more people.

“I took up golf in my 30’s but thought it was a very technical, expensive and elitist sport. Thankfully a six-week ‘come and try course’ showed me how easy it was to enjoy golf as a beginner and how active playing nine holes can be.

“I am looking forward to seeing how golf can attract many more girls and women to enjoy the sport and be more active and healthy.”

• Non-communicable diseases (NCD) are responsible for nearly three quarters of all premature deaths globally.

• 15 million people die from NCD deaths per year in people aged 30 to 70 years.

www.pga.info

G O L F

A N D

H E A L T H

WALK OF CHAMPIONS Golfers across the UK and Ireland walked more than 125,000,000 steps across 16,000 rounds of golf as part of the 2018 FootJoy (FJ) Walk of Champions.

THE WALK of Champions initiative is a partnership between FJ and Hole19, to encourage golf participation and promote health and fitness.

Utilising Hole19’s GPS technology to monitor the number of steps its users were walking, golfers were rewarded throughout the season with monthly prizes from FJ. The 2018 edition was the most successful to date with rounds logged from as far north as Macduff, Scotland and as far south as Falmouth, England with one golfer alone amassing an astounding 1,371,996 steps over the season.

Ten finalists were invited to Fairmont, St Andrews putting their new FJ clothing to the test in blustery conditions around the challenging Kittocks layout, with Clayton Collett from Cardrona Golf & Country Club crowned the 2018 FJ Walk of Champions overall winner.

The most active players over the entire season and the two lucky winners were rewarded with a head-to-toe makeover from FJ at Fairmont St Andrews, where

Stepping out. UK golfers notched up 16,000 rounds of golf

they embraced the Home of Golf, spending time in the town and snapping the customary photograph on the famous Swilken Bridge.

“It’s amazing to see so many rounds of golf played as part of the FJ Walk of Champions,” said FJ Marketing Manager, Paul O’Hagan. “Our goal was to simply encourage more people to get outside and onto the golf course and it’s great that we’ve been able to grow this event year-on-year.”

Anthony Douglas, CEO and Founder of Hole19, added: “We’re

proud that the creation of this partnership has encouraged so many people to get out onto the golf course. We were particularly blown away when looking through the final numbers to see that one of our participants had walked over 1,300,000 steps, en-route to securing his place at the Grand Final!”

For more information about FJ Walk of Champions visit: www.hole19golf.com/footjoy/ walkofchampions/

What golfers tell us...

What can PGA Members do?

Zach Johnson, two-time Major winner “To me the benefits of our sport are clear so it is really interesting to be able to back them up with hard evidence.

“Being a fitter, healthier golfer on the course has helped me to continually improve my own game and I think golf is perfect for getting people active and healthy both in body and in mind.

“Through my off-course work with my local community I also know how important health and wellbeing can be on the development of kids, so anything that can help us to understand more about how to create healthy, well-rounded people is something I can get behind.”

• SPREAD THE WORD – Golf professionals and golf facilities can talk about and share the key health benefits and messages to golfers and non-golfers too.

• MULTIFUNCTIONALITY – You may want to consider providing other sports at your facility, such as a swimming pool or a gym.

• PROMOTE INCLUSIVITY – Encourage increased participation by developing environments and prices structures that are welcoming to all types of players, including beginners and those with a disability.

• PROVIDE – Make sure you golf facility is in the best possible shape. Provide sunscreen spots in the summer and water facilities as well as healthy food.

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

• PROMOTE SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY – Restrict water, energy and chemical use.

For more information about the Golf and Health project and to download your very own infographic resources visit www.golfandhealth.org 19

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N E W S

Blackwell Grange pro shop back in business after arson attack FITTINGS SUPPLIED by a local company have been key to the pro shop at Darlington’s Blackwell Grange overcoming the effects of a potentially devastating fire.

The shop was ravaged by a blaze started by arsonists just months after its official opening by three-time Ryder Cup captain Bernard Gallacher.

Designed by Darlington firm MicroSlat International, it was equipped with stateof-the-art aluminium displays capable of showing off the full range of golf equipment.

At the time Gallacher said: “The new pro shop and changing rooms really are fantastic. Blackwell Grange is a superb course – now it has the facilities to match.”

But things looked bleak for the business when an arson attack caused more than £30,000-worth of damage.

However, the club’s decision to specify MicroSlat’s aluminium shop fittings paid dividends. Terry Dady, managing director

Above: Golf products on display in the pro shop at Blackwell Grange. Left: Bernard Gallacher and MicroSlat MD Terry Dady

of MicroSlat International, explained: “If the club shop had been fitted out with cheaper MDF shop fittings there would have been nothing left.

“But our aluminium fittings are designed for the toughest environments and withstood the heat from the fire - and the subsequent water damage as a result of the fire brigade’s efforts to bring it under control – with hardly a scratch.

“We were delighted to supply fixtures to

the club. We use high grade aluminium that can be recycled at the end of its long life – making MicroSlat the environmentallyfriendly solution as well as the best choice for durability.”

The club’s head PGA Professional, Peter Raine, added: “We chose MicroSlat fittings and fixtures for their strength and durability – and pretty shortly after opening we had reason to be glad we did.” http://www.microslat.com

SkyTrak launches £200-off autumn TV promotion THE HIGHLIGHT of SkyTrak’s autumn UK marketing campaign is a two-month long promotion on Sky Sports Golf advertising a £200 discount.

The personal launch monitor’s rapid growth will also be boosted by advertisements in a wide number of consumer golf websites and magazines plus a social media push.

In the autumn promotion, SkyTrak is available at a £200 discount with a valid offer code until November 30.

The campaign will provide sales support to the fast-growing team of SkyTrak showcase dealers in the UK as the £1,895 personal launch monitor and golf simulator, which offers a zero per cent finance pay-monthly option, becomes an

22

increasingly popular retail item with the golfing public.

“We estimate that well over 500,000 UK golfers will see a SkyTrak advertisement this autumn,” said SkyTrak’s James Holmes.

“We expect this campaign to drive plenty of fresh traffic into SkyTrak dealers, where interest in the product will be high.

“Golfers are quickly realising that they can play real golf at home, with a SkyTrak, at a fraction of the cost that they would expect. Our finance option now makes it affordable to have your own professional-standard launch monitor, something which was unheard of just a few years ago.”

The Sky Sports Golf TV campaign features SkyTrak spokesman Hank Haney describing the virtues of the product, with a separate advertisement running concurrently showing the device being used in a home environment. www.skytrakgolf.com

SkyTrak has launched its autumn marketing campaign

www.pga.info

T R A D E

N E W S

Olazabal and Costa Navarino join forces RYDER CUP star and two-time multi-award-winning courses: The US Masters champion José Dunes Course and The Bay Course, María Olazábal and the premier designed by Bernhard Langer and golf destination in Greece, Costa Robert Trent Jones II, respectively.

Navarino, have joined forces to The Navarino Hills development create two new courses. will bring the total number of signaThe two 18-hole courses at ture golf courses at Costa Navarino Navarino Hills will overlook to four, all within a 13km distance The Bay Course and the historic and under the same management.

Bay of Navarino, and offer panCommenting on his latest assignoramic views of the surrounding José María Olazábal looking forward to the Greek project ment, Olazábal, who captained countryside and Ionian Sea. Europe to victory in the 2012 Work on Olazábal’s signature design, his 20th course Ryder Cup, said: “It is a privilege to have the chance to construction, has just begun and is expected to open for design not just one but two golf courses and we will do play by 2021. everything to do this incredible land justice and deliver Costa Navarino, voted “European Golf Resort of a golfing experience you will want to return to over the Year” for 2017 by IAGTO, is already home to one and over.” of the world’s premier golf destinations with two www.costanavarino.com

Full team ahead for Bushnell BUSHNELL GOLF, part of YUMAX Brand, has reinforced its commitment to the golf industry by putting in place a full customer service team based at its offices in Farnborough, Hampshire.

YUMAX Brand MD, Andrew Grose commented: “Our aim is to make sure our accounts from all over Europe have the very best experience when contacting us.

CUSTOMER SERVICE TEAM 03303 310192 csuk@yumaxbrand.com SALES AGENTS Alan Chenery – Derby, Leics, Suffolk, Norfolk, Warwicks, Beds, Cambs, Essex, Northants, Notts, Shrops, W. Mids 07713 327 639 alanchenery@btopenworld.com Trevor Brinkworth – Avon, Devon, Somerset, Wilts, Cornwall, Oxon, Dorset, Glos, South & Mid Wales, Worcs, Herefordshire 07979 230 012 tbrinksgolf@aol.com John Harrison – Cleveland, Yorks, Humberside, Durham, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear 07747 036 879 johnharrisonagencies@hotmail.com

The PGA Professional

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

For Year Round Practice Huxley Golf specialises in the design, supply and installation of all-weather surfaces for golf. From practice tees to putting and golf greens, golf course tees, paths and even golf courses.

Richard Harris – Berks, W. Sussex, Kent, Herts, Middx, Bucks, E. Sussex, Hants, Surrey, IOW, Channel Islands 07710 637 369 richard@golfharris.co.uk Scott Doyle – Cheshire, Lancs, North Wales, Cumbria, Merseyside, Isle of Man 07702 638 045 scott.doyle2@btconnect.com Mark Wyse – Southern & Northern Ireland +353 8660 04020 club42000@eircom.net Scott Kirk – Scotland 07899 992 971 scottkirkagencies@btinternet.com

| November 2018

UK and Overseas Enquiries: Tel +44 (0)1730 829608 Email: sales@huxleygolf.co.uk www.huxleygolf.com

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T R A D E

N E W S

FootJoy’s hot shoe shuffle PGA PARTNERS FootJoy has introduced an all-new version of the hottest shoe in golf, the Pro/SL™.

Currently the market-leading model across the UK and Ireland and on the majority of worldwide professional Tours, Pro/SL combines a soft, comfortable, waterproof leather upper with a midsole/outsole system that features three distinct layers for comfort, perimeter stability and superb traction in all conditions.

Chosen by more of the Top 100 ranked players in the world than any other shoe, Pro/SL has been worn to victory more than 130 times since its launch just two years ago.

The model further increased in popularity after being added to FJ’s MyJoys platform, allowing golfers to design their own unique version of the Pro/SL. The new styles will be available for

Sole brothers: the new Pro/SL™

golfers to design from November 15th through FJ’s MyJoy platform, in line with the launch of the grey/white and all black colourways.

FJ Footwear’s director of product management, Richard Fryer, said: “Our players can choose from any shoe in our line, so the fact that so many continue to choose Pro/SL, on Tours all over the world and in all possible conditions, really validates the product’s performance and our extensive design and development process.”

PGA Professional and Ryder Cup star Ian Poulter is one of many high-profile players who opts for the Pro/SL. Poulter, who wore a custom pair of shoes through Europe’s recent Ryder Cup victory in Paris, said: “Of all the shoes I’ve worn throughout my career, these are by far the most comfortable.

“I get great grip in wet and dry conditions, plus with the BOA® system, I can dial in the fit and comfort to get exactly what I want.” www.footjoy.co.uk

Turn trade-ins and unsold stock into cash The Golfbidder service allows you to liquidate used and unsold product quickly and safely with just a phone call.

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We collect the clubs And pay you immediately No hassles. No dramas

Not with us yet? Opening a trade account is completely FREE and takes just a couple of minutes over the phone.

Call us on or email us at 020 8401 6900 pros@golfbidder.co.uk www.golfbiddertrade.com

24

Helping the golf industry do business

Partner

C O R P O R ATE PA R T N E R

We now pay you even faster!

We promise to have your cheque in the post within 3 working days of receiving the clubs. www.pga.info

T R A D E

N E W S

PING’s Sigma 2 series boasts fit-it-yourself feature THE LATEST range of putters from PING, the Sigma 2 series, features a newly designed adjustable-length shaft and focuses on a softer feel and lively response through multi-layer face technology.

Available in 10 options, including the new, highly stable Fetch model that is designed with a golf-ballpickup feature, the putters are available for pre-order at authorised PING golf shops around the world.

“The Sigma 2 putters are engineered to bring a new level of performance and excitement to our putter line,” said John K. Solheim, PING president.

“As we do with every product, we combined our extensive technical knowledge gathered over our nearly 60-year history with the needs of the everyday golfer.

“In the Sigma 2, along with the new face design that’s both very soft and responsive, this approach includes providing golfers with the ability to customise their shaft length by introducing a simple and intuitive adjustableshaft-length technology that is a standard feature of every putter in the line.

“Our research indicates eight out of 10 golfers are playing the wrong-length putters and losing strokes as a result.

“That’s a staggering statistic to us and one we’ve made easy for golfers to solve with the Sigma 2. Golfers will see significant The Fetch improvement in their putter with a golf ball putting consistency if pickup they use a putter length feature customised to their game.”

The adjustable-length shaft is lightweight, easy to use and sleekly concealed beneath the grip, allowing golfers

to customise length between 32˝ and 36˝ to fit their stroke and posture.

The process is quick and intuitive through the use of an adjustment The adjustable length tool that inserts into shaft is lightweight and easy to use the top of the grip.

One full turn causes approximately a ¼˝ adjustment up or down, and the grip remains perfectly aligned during the adjustment process.

“The adjustable shaft is just a really cool technology,” added Solheim. “Our engineers took a very complex technical challenge and simplified it for the benefit of golfers. It allows you to experiment with various lengths and ultimately self-fit yourself.

“You’re no longer limited to a specific length measurement. You simply adjust it until you’re comfortable, ideally with your eyes directly over the ball.

We call it ‘invisible’ technology but once you customise it to your length, the results will be very clear on your scorecard.”

In addition, three proprietary PING grip designs allow golfers to dial in their optimal fit and feel. Listed from smallest to largest diameter: The PP60 is midsize and lightweight, designed to fit the contours of the hands with flats on the top and sides. Slightly heavier, the PP61 has an exaggerated pistol shape and is inspired by the popular PP58 grip. The PP62, while still lightweight, has a larger, more rounded shape to promote quieter hands.

The range comprises: The Anser, ZB 2, Arna, Kushin C, Fetch, Tyne, Tyne 4,Wolverine H, Valor. RRP per model £200. www.gb.ping.com

BIG MAX best-seller gets a makeover BIG MAX has re-invented its best-selling cart, TI 1000, with the introduction of the TI ONE. Complete with all the robust characteristics and benefitting from a five-year warranty, the TI ONE’s stable parallel axle, height adjustable handle and deluxe organizer panel with integrated bottle holder and storage net ensure it’s practical on the course, while its compact, lightweight design make it a breeze to transport and store.

Two Quick Fix and two Quick Lok bases finish off the TI ONE and make it The PGA Professional

| November 2018

the perfect partner for a wide range of BIG MAX accessories, including umbrella holder, towel or GPS holder.

The original TI 1000 broke the mould for golf carts and propelled BIG MAX to the top of the European push cart market.

With upgraded technology and a modern finish, the TI ONE builds on that unrivalled track record, presenting a modern twist on the original that is simply comfortable to push, easy to use and built to last.

RRP: £169.99. www.bigmaxgolf.com 25

T R A D E

N E W S

Practice makes perfect with Diamond Golf DIAMOND GOLF, one of Europe’s leading suppliers of components to PGA pros, has a product catalogue packed with top-selling training aids to boost revenue.

Used by many of the world’s leading Tour players, top coaches and a host of PGA Professionals, there are training aids to help all levels of players to find the correct set-up, groove that perfect swing, increase distance, iron out technical flaws, and encourage consistency with every club in the bag.

Diamond Golf International has been supplying golf components to the golf trade for more than 40 years and its catalogue of training aids includes: Orange Whip Trainers, T-stroke, Impact Ball, Mentor Grips from G-Rip, Eyeline Putting

Mirror, Figure 8 Strap and Swingyde.

For the complete list of more than 60 golf training aids, including impact bags, laser alignments tools, balance and power-enhancing gadgets, putting targets and training grips or to get a free copy of the Diamond Golf catalogue visit: www.diamondgolf.co.uk

Swingyde

Golf training aids in the Diamond Golf catalogue

T-stroke

Mentor Grips

A D V E R T O R I A L

Free IT Advice From The Experts

T

Why Malware Is A Real Threat and Can Put Your Business at Risk…

rojans, Spyware, Worms, Ransomware, Adware, and Botnets. These are all types of Malware that can do more harm than good to your business.

Malware is just another word or phrase for malicious software.

While you are hard at work, so are cyber criminals. Developing software to compromise business functions and damage your computer network is the equivalent of lofting a fairway wood from 245 yards onto the green to give yourself a chance of winning the Honda Classic.

Yes, Malware can be obstructed by firewalls and cyber security, but this is just the first line of defence. Choosing to take the proactive approach, and understanding where your business is most at risk, and what measures to take will prove beneficial in the long term.

£857,000, with the estimated global cost of a serious cyberattack to be more than $120 billion (£92 billion).

Are you prepared to take that risk?

The threat of malware is growing and does not discriminate, no matter what industry you’re in. Cyber Criminals are always evolving their ideas and tactics, meaning you should be doing the same with your security strategy.

A big Ransomware attack without a plan in place will be catastrophic for your business. Contact Silverbug on 020 7078 3795 to discuss how our IT security suite and three-pronged defence system, can help your business stay safe.

The average total financial cost of Malware incidents was

26

www.pga.info

T R A D E

BIG MAX increases Aqua range BIG MAX has added two new designs to its award-winning Aqua golf bag range that features innovative new technology and stylish upgrades.

The key technology underpinning the Aqua range is the brand’s tried and tested Drop-Stop system that guarantees the bags are 100 per cent waterproof.

Incorporating sealed seams, Japanese waterproof zippers and fabric with a waterproof rating of 10,000 mm, the Aqua range delivers an unrivalled level of waterproofing.

Ultra-lightweight, tear resistant materials complete the robust practicality of construction and then each bag in the series adds its own take on making a golfer’s life on the course just that little bit easier.

In addition, BIG MAX has studied traditional cart bag design and identified the toe-down hang of a golfer’s woods an obstruction to the quick and easy selection of a club.

To combat this BIG MAX has created the V-Lock organiser top. With four ‘Twist and Lock’ mechanisms across the top row of the AQUA V-4 the golfer’s woods are held in place, facing away from the rest of the clubs, leaving a clear view for easier club selection.

With the lightweight locking mechanism housed at the foot of the bag, the organiser top (right) retains a traditional look and the overall weight of the bag is kept to a minimal 2.7 kg.

With 14 full-length dividers, nine spacious waterproof pockets, hybrid putter/umbrella well, two cooler pockets, glove and towel holder, umbrella holder, transport handles and generous 10 inch top, the AQUA V-4 (left) is full of practical touches.

RRP £299.99.

The AQUA Style 2 (right) meanwhile benefits from generous proportions, including nine spacious waterproof pockets, including an oversize cooler pocket, and a 14-way organiser top with full length dividers. Despite its capacity and feature list, the Style 2 weighs in at a surprisingly light 2.1 kg.

RRP £299.99. www.bigmaxgolf.com The PGA Professional

| November 2018

N E W S

Wilson extends INFINITE putter range WILSON GOLF is extending its award-winning Wilson Staff INFINITE putter range for 2019 with three new models incorporating eye-catching design and game-changing technology.

Bucktown The new models continue the tradition of being named after landmarks West Loop and neighbourhoods in the brand’s home city of Chicago.

Available this month, the ‘Bucktown’ a fang-mallet style model features a double bend in the shaft towards the head to balance the face at impact, while the ‘West Loop’ is a wide-profile blade style putter with a straight down shaft. Coming early next year is the ‘L’, a mallet-style putter with a square head and straight shaft.

The three new putters join the six other Wilson Staff INFINITE models including the award-winning ‘South Side’ used exclusively by three-time major champion Padraig Harrington for the past four seasons. The centre-shafted mallet putter helped the Irishman win the 2015 Honda Classic on the PGA Tour and the 2016 Portugal Masters.

The latest INFINITE range features Counterbalance Technology, which combines a heavier head and grip weights, moving the balance point closer to the hands for a smoother and more controlled putting stroke.

A new grip includes an oversize design construction to provide a stable feel and limits rotation during stroke. The heavy grip (104 grams) helps create the counter-balanced putter feel.

The range also features a black anti-glare finish to accentuate the sight lines that have been stripped back to improve alignment at address. The DoubleMilled Face that promotes consistent impact, roll and distance control also features the famous Wilson Staff shield in the striking, modern appearance.

New grips and headcovers carry the distinctive INFINITE branding in a strong black and white colour contrast with standout attention to detail highlighted in the brand’s traditional red colourway.

In addition, the INFINITE PUTTER series includes the ‘Windy City’, ‘Bean’ and ‘Bucktown’ models in a trendy glacier blue and white-coloured women’s option, designed to fit female specifications and characteristics.

The Wilson Staff INFINITE putters are available at selected retailers at an RRP of £99. www.wilson.com

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E Q U I P M E N T WEDGES

Chipping in Accuracy with a wedge is often the key to saving par or making a birdie on a par five. However, when it comes to choosing the right wedge for the task, golfers are spoiled for choice.

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PING

Wilson Staff FG Tour PMP RAW

THE LATEST wedge from PING, the Glide Forged, has been forged from 8620 carbon steel with sizing and shaping influenced

by PING tour professionals and advisors.

A sole design with a rounded lead edge and more heel-toe camber allows for greater shot-making and creativity. In addition, the gooseneck-tapered hosel ensures a smooth transition through grass and sand while providing a captured look at address.

Patented, precision-milled, wheel-cut grooves, first introduced in the Glide 2.0 wedges and developed by PING’s engineering and manufacturing teams, enable grooves with a sharper edge radius, which increases interaction with the ball at impact, creating more friction for improved spin and trajectory control.

Glide Forged Wedges (RH & LH): Multi-material construction: Forged, 8620 carbon steel. Tungsten toe weight. Precision-milled face and wheel-cut grooves. Machined flange and hosel knurling.

Available 50⁰, 52⁰, 54⁰, 56⁰, 58⁰, 60⁰ in 10 colour codes (lie angle). Stock steel and graphite shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold S300, ALTA CB (Soft R, Regular, Stiff) www.ping.com

BASED ON the soft 8620 Carbon Steel used on its popular FG Tour V6 irons, the FG Tour PMP – RAW finish wedge incorporates the same head shape as the existing Oil Can and Tour Frosted PMP models. However, since the RAW version is not plated it will rust over a period of time for a classic look.

The PMP (Precision Milled Performance) - wedges include maximum volume HM grooves for spin on full shots, laser etched Micro Spin Lines for increased spin and control on partial shots plus a perfectly flat, milled face for greater consistency.

Featuring three sole designs – Traditional, Tour Grind and Wide – offering golfers numerous loft, lie and bounce variables, with as many as 97 unrivalled playability options available through custom fitting. The wedges come fitted with a KBS Hi-Rev 2.0 wedge shaft that features an active tip section for a higher ball flight, plus more spin for added stopping power and accuracy.

RRP £89. www.wilson.com/en-gb

Wishon Golf PCF Micro Pro

Macgregor MACTEC

WISHON GOLF’S new PCF Micro Pro wedges feature a classic teardrop shape profile and one of the most versatile sole designs in golf.

Having a traditional sole with a classic round profile the shape of the PCF Micro Pro wedge sets up nicely behind the ball gives golfers confidence in the shot no matter where they find themselves on the course. The club has a CNC Milled face with Wishon Golf’s proprietary Micro-GroveTM scorelines.

The Zero-Bounce heel grind removes bounce at the heel end of the sole for improved consistency ensuring the leading edge of the face remains low to the ground when the face is opened for cut or finesse shots.

PCF Micro Pro wedges are produced in durable satin nickel/chromium electroplated finish and have a bendable hosel for maximum club-fitting options.

Available in both right and left hand (52° AW, 56° SW, 60° LW), Wishon Golf’s Micro Pro wedges can be adjusted to a maximum of +/-4 degrees in any direction for loft and lie. www.wishongolf.com

MANUFACTURED FROM the finest steel, the MACTEC wedges are designed to provide a soft feel with enhanced feedback. A classic head shape will suit the eye of even the most-discerning golfers, while larger grooves create exceptional control and optimised spin, even from the rough. Available in either satin or black nickel finishes, the wedges feature premium components including soft compound grips for greater traction and enhanced feel for those delicate shots around the green.

Manufactured from the finest stainless steel for soft feel and enhanced feedback; A classic head shape with large groove design for improved control and optimised spin; Available in satin or black nickel finishes; Premium components including soft compound MacGregor grip for greater traction and feel.

Both available in: 52⁰, 56⁰ and 60⁰ MRH. RRP £44.99. http://www.macgregor-golf.co.uk www.pga.info

E Q U I P M E N T

Bettinardi H2 303 SS

HONMA TWorld-W4

Mizuno S18

THE BETTINARDI H2 303 Stainless Steel wedge provides players with tried and tested technology transferred from the popular putter range. The patented Honeycomb face-milling featured between each groove creates more friction between club and ball, providing a tighter spin in both wet and dry conditions to keep the ball under control.

While the C-Groove versatile sole grind makes it easier for those delicate touches around the green or from sand. Available is six loft options (50° – 60°), 64° lie and a variation of three bounce (8°, 10° or 12°). The KBS Hi-Rev Tour shaft comes as standard along with the Lamkin Crossline Cord grip.

RRP £139. www.bettinardi.com

THE NEW TWorld-W4 wedge from HONMA is crafted in two different sole designs depending on the loft of the wedge. The C-Sole design for 56°, 58° and 60° wedges is engineered with a mid-high centre of gravity and a thick wall design on the clubface to maximise loft control. The 48°, 50° and 52° wedges feature the I-Sole design with a midlow centre of gravity making it the ideal club for squarefaced shots. The face of the wedge uses a crossed-milling groove pattern for ultimate feel and spin control.

RRP £149. www.honmagolfeurope.com

A MID-SIZE, rounded profile, Mizuno’s S18 has been Grain Flow Forged in Hiroshima, Japan, for the ultimate in short game performance. In the higher lofts, weight shifted up the blade is visible in a thicker, bevelled topline – delivering more consistent spin rates on strikes from high in the clubface (common with more extreme lofts). Mizuno’s most loft specialist wedge in every aspect from the 46⁰ pitching wedge replacement to the 62⁰ lob wedge.

The use of Boron infused steel lengthens the durability of Mizuno’s Quad Cut Groove, while maintaining its renowned Grain Flow Forged feel. Available in either Black IP or White Satin finish.

RRP £140. www.golf.mizunoeurope.com

A C A D E M Y BY

NOW BOOKING FOR 2018/2019

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

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

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

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

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

International: +44 (0) 1903 726999

dgiacademy@diamondgolf.co.uk

29

R E T A I L

W A T C H

Your invitation to successful retail This December, you’re invited to a first-of-its-kind workshop that will change the way you think about retail, and take you on a road to more a more profitable business. Big promises?

Here, we catch up with one half of the delivery team to find out more.

T

he CPD will be hosted by Advanced PGA Pro, David Fulcher, from Edgbaston Golf Club, along with Mark Hopkins, who has helped hundreds of golf professionals over the last 15 years. Here, David Fulcher talks to us about the workshop that we’re hoping will be the first of many.

What was it like, coming into retail as a golf pro?

When I first took over the shop here, I had very little retail experience. Like most golf pros I went into the business for my love of the sport, and hadn’t thought about the business side of things at all. It was a pretty daunting task, to take over a shop, and that’s the experience that most of us have.

Like most golf pros I have responsibilities everywhere: with the club, coaching and the shop, it’s very hard to get the balance right.

The shop has the most financial commitment, but it’s also where you can make the most money.

What’s the thinking behind the December workshop?

Good retail isn’t just about buying the right stock at the right price. It’s about stock holding and stock turn. At Edgbaston, we’ve learnt not to hold much stock, so our risk is less. For me, focussing on getting that right, has meant the pro shop has doubled its profits every year since I’ve been there.

After just 3 years, I’m now able to take a step back from the shop. My retail manager, Joshua Harvey, runs everything, which has freed me up to concentrate on other parts of the business.

30

Above: Advanced PGA Pro, David Fulcher, from Edgbaston Golf Club and left, with retail manager, Joshua Harvey

There still isn’t enough guidance out there for golf pros and, we want to help others get it right too.

Why is this CPD different to others?

Running your own golf retail business can be a scary place, even if you’ve been in it for some time. It’s easy to shy away from topics such as turnover, profit and stock holding, as they sound difficult and dull! The aim of this CPD is that it will be a personal, interactive day, and attendees will come away with a clear plan of action to improve their shops, based on real life examples and help from others who have experienced the same issues they have.

We’ve put the combination of Mark’s experience, and my own, into the content

of the course, to ensure it’s full of the best practical advice. We are confident that it will give attendees a better understanding of how to make their businesses more profitable.

COURSE INFORMATION Date: 11 December 2018 Venue: PGA National Training Academy, Ping House Duration: 1 Day Cost: £42 PGA Professionals will be credited with 25 CPD points by The PGA for successful completion of this course. To attend, please contact the Member Education Dept on 01675 407333 or email cpd@pga.org.uk

Crossover Technologies is committed to spreading the word of great retail, and helping golf professionals to run better businesses and make more money. crossovertec.co.uk Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter or Facebook.

www.pga.info

R E T A I L

W A T C H

IN THE PRO SHOP WITH

Tony Mealing When Head PGA Pro, Tony Mealing, arrived at the Kendleshire Golf Club, the size of the shop came as a shock. Thirteen years on, he has a booming business with big plans for the future.

Here, he offers up sound advice for first time retailers, with a warning not to be “too nice”.

What was the shop like at first?

It’s a big shop and that was a bit of a surprise. I remember wondering how I was going to stock it but I managed to get a small overdraft and persuade suppliers to extend payment dates: giving me chance to sell the stock before I had to pay anything.

The first stock order was worth about £30-£40K but the shop still looked half empty. I kept reinvesting and the business grew from there.

What advice do you have for new retailers now?

Be tough when it comes to working with suppliers, so don’t buy another £5K worth of stock for a 3% discount. You could end up with too much stock that you have to discount, just to get rid of it.

I was a bit too nice at first, I think, and

Kendleshire Golf Club’s Head PGA Pro, Tony Mealing

got a bit sucked into forging relationships with suppliers, but it doesn’t help your bottom line.

There is also a temptation to buy what you like, but you need to think beyond that. Make sure you stock products that your customers will want, even if it’s not your taste.

‘‘

I couldn’t run my business without a good EPOS system now. Amongst other things, it helps identify unpopular products, so there’s less guesswork when it comes to deciding what to buy in.

‘‘

How did you start out?

Like most pros, I was in it for the golf and didn’t think about the business side of things, at first. At 17, I was taking my PGA apprenticeship and working in a pro shop at Cocksmoor Woods.

I went on to work with Nicky Lumb at Hambrook and, later, lectured at the PGA Academy, whilst working as Head Pro at another club. But I wanted to combine teaching with running a business, and jumped at the Head Pro position at the Kendleshire Golf Club in 2005.

I couldn’t run my business without a good EPOS system now.

Amongst other things, it helps identify unpopular products, so there’s less guesswork when it comes to deciding what to buy in.

My EPOS also helps me with discounting. Again, I was too nice at times, and gave away product thinking it’d build customer loyalty. And, whilst it’s fine to give the odd item away, you need to be 100% aware of how that might affect profits. Again, the stats from my EPOS system help me keep on top how giveaways, or discounts, will impact me.

Do you belong to a buying group?

Yes, I do and I’d recommend this to new retailers, too. Mine really helped me, especially in the early days. Buying groups can be great for advice and guidance on everything to do with the business.

Do you do much marketing?

At first, I didn’t because I was focussing on setting up systems but now, marketing is something we actively do. Facebook works well for us, and we also now have a database of 4,000 shop customers.

We use our EPOS system to run a loyalty scheme, and also email previous purchasers with relevant, friendly emails which help to keep us front of mind.

XPOS is the ultimate sales and stock management solution, designed specifically for golf retailers.

Use XPOS reports to make better buying decisions and be a better retailer.

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

31

partnership

DRIVE OUR VISION SHARE OUR SUCCESS

ENHANCE YOUR BUSINESS. EXPERT ADVICE FROM TGI GOLF. More than 480 of the country’s leading PGA Professionals are part of TGI Golf Partnership, which exists to assist them in running successful and profitable businesses.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you.

tgigolf.com

@TGI_Golf

> Best Buying Terms > Free Retail and

Marketing Advice > First Class Events

/TGIGolfPartnership

THE TGI GOLF PARTNERSHIP IS A GOLF RETAIL SERVICES GROUP, OWNED BY PGA PROFESSIONALS.

partnership

DRIVE OUR VISION Six things that happen SHARE OUR SUCCESS

when you become a TGI Golf Partner

01

You make a one off payment You are a partner of TGI Golf and TGI Golf Travel

02

You are guaranteed the best UK and Irish terms from Partner suppliers Including all the biggest brands in golf

03

You have a dedicated Retail Consultant Free, in-store expert advice from the guys in the know

04

You are invited to fantastic events Some educational, some competitive - always valuable

You will receive annual profit distribution

05

As a Full Partner of the business, you share in our success

You get access to TGI’s amazing marketing tools These PGA allowProfessionals you to take charge and tailor More than 480 of the country’s leading > Best Buying Terms

06

are part of TGI Golf Partnership, which exists to assist communications and POS to your business > Free Retail and them in running successful and profitable businesses.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you.

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Marketing Advice > First Class Events

/TGIGolfPartnership

THE TGI GOLF01506 PARTNERSHIP GOLF RETAIL SERVICES GROUP, OWNED BY PGA PROFESSIONALS. TELEPHONE 505525IS• AEMAIL HEADOFFICE@TGIGOLF.COM

F A S H I O N

F O C U S

Retailing with legs!

Essential but difficult to stock – trousers, shorts and skorts are always in demand by golfers, but can pose a nightmare for retailers given the sheer scale of sizes, styles and lengths. Getting the mix right is crucial.

Demand for shorts is growing: Paolo, from Galvin Green RRP £90

Looking to 2019: FootJoy Slim fit trousers on trend

T

he sheer number of different options in terms of waist sizes and leg lengths can result in an overwhelming amount of SKU’s to cram within a limited shelf space. Not having the required size in stock can result in a lost sale. Equally there is a need to provide space for people to try on trousers, shorts and skorts as it can be very difficult to judge exactly which size and fit is best simply by holding them in place.

WEATHER CHECK Taking account of predicted weather patterns will help predict potential sales patterns. During the summer of 2018, Island Green found that its entire menswear stock of shorts, and ladies Capri pants, sold out completely due to the weather.

Demand for shorts is definitely growing, and any indication of warm sunny days is likely to increase sales.

And it is not just for use on hot days during an English summer – golfing holidays in sunny climes are proving extremely popular and suitable apparel is needed. Golf wear manufacturers are increasingly introducing an ever wider range of shorts for male golfers which are stylish

and comfortable while skorts are popular options for female golfers.

There can be little doubt that golfers are demanding much more from their gear.

The use of technological fabrics ensure that golfers can go straight to the club bar after a round of golf, back to the office or undertake other tasks without any need to change as the clothing does not look out of place in any setting.

Versatility and comfort rule the trends when it comes to choosing trousers, shorts and skorts for the golf course. Skorts possessing an integral pair of matching shorts are proving much more popular than skirts for female golfers, simply because they preserve modesty while moving around the golf course yet are cool and comfortable to wear. Practical and comfortable, skorts offer the advantages of shorts yet have a fashionable and feminine look.

Navy edging gives the PING Alia skirt added panache

Weather protection: Albatross rain pant from Peter Millar RRP £215

SHAPING UP Silhouettes are all important when it comes to golf fashion – clean cut lines, sharp edges with shorts and trousers that do not possess any surplus material in their design. Tapered legs and slim fit leg styles dominate the trouser and short fashions for SS 2019 along with the use of performance fibres.

COLOURS AND PATTERNS Plain colours, especially white, black, grey and blue dominate the market no matter whether you are looking at the male or female product sectors.

Golf stylists tend to stress the need for classic styling and colours that always look good, and have stood the test of time.

There is some evidence that

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golfers are looking with interest at patterns, especially when it comes to shorts or skorts.

Glenmuir say that “we are seeing that ladies are wanting to experiment with brighter colours and prints on the bottoms to match with a more classic/sombre top.”

Bunker Mentality are using their trademark Paisley pattern on shorts,

Glenmuir have added animal and silver foil prints to their ladies trouser collection, while dots rule the day in Island Green’s trouser offer.

Although checks were once the most common sight on golf courses, they are now rarely to be seen.

Lindeberg is one of the very few manufacturers to offer a range of classic checked trousers.

www.pga.info

F A S H I O N

F O C U S

WHAT’S NEW? PING

Players pant in asphalt and black

The natural landscape of Sedona, Arizona has provided inspiration for PING’s SS19 eye-catching colour palettes, especially when it comes to female clothing Vibrant shades of Sky Azure and Snorkel Blue, and the warm tones of Iron Red combined with linking shades of white, black and navy create a versatile range.

The Alia skort complete with pleated back detail and conveniently located score card pocket is a new design for SS19 while Vita is a colourful vibrant pull on, yarn-dyed gradient skort.

Performance is enhanced by the use of textiles offering four way stretch and moisture moving properties.

The menswear Players Pant is

a new five pocket performance trouser, designed with a slim-fit leg. Engineered with four way stretch throughout for complete freedom of movement, it aims to offer optimum comfort and performance throughout the whole round and beyond.

The slim leg fit Bradley Short is proving to be another key item from the Men’s collection. These shorts are contain a Tekfit® waistband for added comfort of up to 2 inches, and are available in navy, stone, dark Bradley men’s mineral, imperial blue and black. shorts Vita skort £65 Vita pull-on skort; Bradley Short £55 Alia skort in navy Players Pant £70

Smart, stylish and comfortable Genius Stretch trousers and shorts from Calvin Klein

Calvin Klein New for Spring summer 2019 are Calvin Klein’s Genius Stretch golf trousers and shorts designed with a modern slim fit leg using an extreme 4-way stretch fabric that’s breathable and quick drying. The stretchenhanced waist band ensures all day comfort. Shorts colours range from sky blue to orange, as well as the ever popular white, black and grey whereas trousers come in just four shades of black, navy, blue and grey.

Genius Stretch shorts RRP £50 Genius Stretch Trouser RRP £60

PERFORMANCE FIBRES There can be little doubt that golfers are keen on the advantages of performance fibres and innovative textiles.

The type of movement experienced during a game of golf with stretching, swinging and bending means that fabrics have to be lightweight and provide freedom of movement. At the same time, there is a need for breathability and for moisture to be taken away from the body so as to stay comfortable no matter what the weather.

This has led to an ever increasing amount of innovation, with fabrics possessing moisture wicking properties, odour technology and 360 degree stretch.

PING are a major user of Sensor technology which is an innovative technological system, designed to ensure that every garment is specifically engineered to respond to the body’s requirements as well as the demands of the game, whatever the weather conditions. Ping’s Players Pant, Alia and Vita Skorts all incorporate Sensor Cool technology

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

which has moisture moving properties designed to keep golfers dry throughout the game.

In addition, the garments are crease resistant and made from stretch fabrics complementing the movements made during a golf swing ensuring that the outfit is both practical and extremely stylish at all times.

Playing golf in even light rain or encountering sudden showers while out on the course can quickly lead to golfers feeling sodden, as trousers absorb the moisture becoming increasingly heavier to wear. Under Armour has utilised Storm technology to create rainproof pants which are 100% waterproof complete with fully taped seams, ensuring total dryness no matter how heavy the rain.

Another major player utilizing the concept of waterproof trousers is PING as its comprehensive range includes the Ping Anders Waterproof Pant designed to provide maximum weather protection. Island Green also offers waterproof trousers in classic black.

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F A S H I O N

F O C U S

Island Green Stretch tapered trousers using a Polyester/Spandex fibre mix, as together with all weather trousers are available in Island Green’s SS19 collection. Classic colours dominate – black, French Navy and Mid-Grey. Men’s shorts in similiar colours are made in 100% Polyester. The women’s wear SS19 collection contains a wide range of trousers, Capri pants, shorts and skorts ensuring a very comprehensive product range. Colours range from black to lilac and cerulean blue. Most of the ranges focus on the use of manmade fibres, but it does have a range of Bermuda shorts, Capri and Mid Length trousers in 97% cotton with just 3% elastane in a spotted design with silver grey/black and white/candy pink colourways. Wet weather is not forgotten. Apart from a range of black waterproof trousers, Island Green is also offering a waterproof suit comprising jacket and trousers in two colourways black/salmon and mid-grey/duck egg blue.

Ladies skort, Bermuda shorts and Capri pants RRP £34.95 Men’s shorts RRP £24.95 Core Tapered Trouser RRP £29.95 Stretch Tapered Trouser RRP £34.95 Winter trouser RRP £34.95 FJ Lite Slim Fit Trousers

FJ Lite Slim Fit Shorts

FootJoy From FootJoy’s Spring/Summer ’19 range the FJ Lite Slim Fit Trousers and FJ Performance Slim Fit Trousers feature a new European style. SS19 trousers have been redesigned after conversations with golfers looking for a modern and slim silhouette. These new cuts flow over to the new ’19 slim fit short range a new with a comfortable and flattering style. FJ’s SS19 trousers and shorts are now offered in a range of colours from the traditional to a brighter style including red and blue pieced created to compliment the wider range this season. FJ’s Women’s Golf Leisure range is continuing to grow as it enters its 3rd year in the market. The SS19 Golf Leisure range offers a selection of full and cropped trousers alongside various skirts in lightweight and knit options to compliment the entire collection. This seasons collection sees the introduction of two new colours in the lightweight woven skorts with complimentary visors – Royal Blue and Bluefish.

G/FORE Better known for their golf shoes, G/FORE has just introduced clothing into its US offering. “We are so new in apparel and its all been selling incredibly well.

The consumer seems to really like the way we infuse colour detail and whimsy into each piece,” comments Mossimo Gianulli, founder/creator of G/FORE’. The menswear range includes an extensive selection of straight leg, stretch and skinny leg trousers in colours like sand, snow and onyx. One of its more unusual ranges is the Tux trouser, a white straight leg trouser but with a single black stripe along the side from waist to the bottom of the leg. The trouser range is complemented by a knee length shorts selection in shades such as blue, white, red and onyx. For something slightly different, there is the Killer T’s short – white cotton blend material with G/FORE’s embroidered Skull and T’s emblem.

Likewise in womenswear, G/FORE’ has introduced ranges of close fitting Moto Pants in onyx, stone and white, Stretch fit trousers and leggings as well as Tux Trouser in black with a red stripe down the side. Unfortunately, these are only available in the US at the moment – but watch this space! www.petermillar.co.uk/gfore

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Skorts and shorts in classic colours from Island Green

Peter Millar It is worth taking a look at the extensive range of shorts and trousers Peter Millar has unveiled for SS2019. Among the most distinctive are the Performance Twill Salem Shorts possessing two way mechanical comfort stretch and moisture wicking perfect for use on course and for easy wearing around town. Equally impressive is the Performance Print Twill Carrboro Shorts styled with a unique Skull and Clubs or Seagrass print for extra panache. The Performance EB66 Pant is said to be the first of its kind, possessing the look of a weekendready five pocket pant in lightweight stretch chino weight, yet the circular thread rivets, wicking fabric and clean presentation also make it ideal for use on the golf course. For wet days, the Albatross rain pants are the perfect answer as these light, quiet performance pants provide incredible protection and ease of movement even during the worst showers.

Salem Shorts RRP £75; Carrboro Shorts RRP £85; EB66 Pant RRP £105 Smart, yet casual, the new EB Pant from Peter Millar

Peter Millar’s colourful selection of SS19 shorts

www.pga.info

F A S H I O N

Glenmuir’s fresh and pretty Alma skort in aqua

Bunker Mentality Bunker Mentality’s SS2019 includes a new trouser range which possesses a unique ‘stay press’ functional fabric designed to make golf lifestyle easier.

Shorts are a growing part of the collection and several new styles using bold colours and printed patterns have been added especially featuring the brand’s classic Paisley pattern. Creative director Robert Hart says, “Our customers have been asking for more and more outfits to add to their wardrobe. We have made the Paisley pattern our own in ‘Stay press’ functional fabric golf as it’s a very British design, from Bunker Mentality it emphasizes our heritage with a difference. The golf life style our customer leads allows us to create some very cool looks.”

Golf trousers £69

Cross Sportswear Chinos and shorts in a wide range of colours, from navy blue to stone, and added white, red and orange in the shorts range are on offer at Cross Sportswear. Ladies Skorts in both plain and dot patterns feature strongly in the SS19 catalogue, with colours such as light blue, orange and purple. Although a narrow fit, the jersey material lends itself to ease of use as does the stretch skorts collection made from a mix of rayon, nylon and spandex.

Tailored Chinos, capris, and stretch pants offer classic unencumbered silhouettes. An extensive selection of fashion colours are on offer including whites, lichen green, rose pink and blue. Mid length shorts are also available in rose pink, white and navy.

Shorts and Skorts RRP £59.95 Shorts in Ladies and Gents Trousers fashion colours from RRP £64.95 to £79.95 Tailored chinos

Capri pants

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

F O C U S

Glenmuir’s eyecatching Matilda capris in navy animal print

Glenmuir Glenmuir’s trouser collection for SS19 includes the introduction of the Keble high performance shorts for men. New Aqua, Fuschia and printed options have been added to the ladies trouser collection, joining the Navy/ Garnet Red that has always been a classic popular colour.

By far the most stunning of these prints are the bold Animal and Silver foil print to be found in the Matilda capris and Alma skorts ranges. Glenmuir’s Keble short is proving to be another popular line as they have the appearance of a natural fibre cotton chino, but possess outstanding performance properties without any shiny synthetic appearance.

Keble Mens shorts RRP £45 Matilda Capris RRP £70 Glenmuir’s Keble shorts Alma Skorts RRP £70 for men Lottie shorts RRP £65 in khaki

Galvin Green NOAH – Navy – 23 size options – RRP £100 Fitted cut in the Ventil8 PLUS layer offering golfers extremely high level of breathability and excellent moisture wicking properties. Made from 100% polyester stretch fabric and features UPF 20+ properties. Available in five other standout colours.

PAOLO – Red – seven size options – RRP £90 Increasingly popular regular cut VENTIL8™PLUS shorts that provide all the benefits available in the trousers, including extremely high level of breathability and excellent moisture wicking properties. Made from 100% polyester stretch fabric and features UPF 20+ properties MIKA – Navy/Sunny Lime/Aurora Pink – RRP £70 Made from 100% polyester stretch fabric, the Ventil8 PLUS layer providing great levels of softness, breathability and moisture management. UV protection to a factor of 20+, plus standout splashes of colour.

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T R A V E L

B U S I N E S S

Social engagement How you can use social media to promote your trips

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t the beginning of 2018, UK social media usage hit an all-time high with an estimated 42 million people liking, tweeting and ’gramming on one or more channels.

That’s a huge 83% of the adult population now engaging on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube to name but a few and is arguably the best and most costeffective promotional platform out there today.

WHY SHOULD I USE SOCIAL MEDIA? Social media and how the majority of people access this platform (57% through a smartphone or tablet) has changed how the world works. To put it bluntly, as a golf professional running golf breaks, if you haven’t changed how you promote your group trips to prospective clients or your members then you are missing out on some huge opportunities.

Social media offers you the perfect platform to engage with your clients and promote your golf travel services. From marketing your trips to generate interest and ultimately get bums on seats, to entertaining your travellers throughout and sharing memories after, social media gives you opportunities to connect with people in ways that traditional media never have.

WHICH CHANNELS SHOULD I BE USING? Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram remain the top three platforms that are the best performers for marketing your coaching or away trips, with Facebook still coming out on top.

Facebook Facebook currently has 39 million users in the UK and is the most popular form of social media across all age ranges. If you haven’t used social media

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Social Media usage by age range (source: Statista)

before to promote your trips then this is the way to use Facebook is to set up a group perfect place to start. page for your golf travel breaks. It’s easy What it does: The most popular to do and gives you a way to connect and platform on social media, Facebook gives communicate with your clients effectively. you the opportunity to interact and conYou can even set up private group pages for nect with friends and potential clients. You specific trips, allowing you to build a sense can post images, videos and create groups of camaraderie amongst your group before to interact with your clients and effectively your trip begins. You can also share details market your upcoming breaks. of the trip including itineraries and any Who uses it: Facebook has the UK’s important info they may need. widest user base and a staggering 79% of Top tip: Create an “Event Page” showonline adults have a Facebook account. casing your trip and that displays all the Whilst the user base is strong across all age groups it is incredibly popular with people who are 45+ making it an excellent platform to promote trips to your golf club members.

How to use it: From sharing images of upcoming and past trips to setting up private user groups to share details with attendees, there is plenty you can do to promote your trips and interact PGA Professional Rich Pace creating excitement about an upcoming with your clients. A great coaching break announcement www.pga.info

T R A V E L

B U S I N E S S Left: An example of Event pages on Facebook promoting PGA Professional Andy Fletcher's upcoming trips

information in one place. The great thing about this is that friends, family and clients can share this event page giving you even greater outreach for your trips by it appearing on their friends’ newsfeed.

Twitter Twitter has a much smaller UK user base in comparison to Facebook with an estimated 12.6 million users in 2018 but is still a great platform to reach younger social media users and one of the most interactive channels out there.

What it does: Twitter allows you to post images, videos and your thoughts or message in short bursts of text limited to 280 characters. One of the key differences between Twitter and Facebook is that posts on Twitter are automatically made public whereas Facebook posts can only be seen by your friends, unless shared.

Who uses it: Twitter is more popular amongst younger age groups, typically the 18-45 year old bracket.

How to use it: “Tweeting” photos and videos whilst you are travelling with your group and keeping your followers back at home updated is a great way to use Twitter. You can create a #hashtag to make it easier for potential clients to discover what trips you are offering. Make sure to keep it short and simple and relevant to your trip, for example #golfcoachingholiday or #golfprobreak.

Top tip: Ask your friends and family to re-tweet your post as much as possible to help increase your outreach to potential

customers. When away, ask the members of your trip to do the same on your tweets and comment and tag fellow travellers to create a buzz around your break and keep people talking about your trip long after it has ended.

Instagram Instagram is one of the most popular forms of social media with over 23 million people using it in the UK in 2018.

What it does: Used almost exclusively on smartphones, Instagram is a photo a video sharing social media platform allowing you to attach captions and hashtags to posts.

Who uses it: Instagram is most popular amongst the younger age groups with a very small number of UK residents over the age of 45 using this platform.

How to use it: The perfect place to post pictures and videos of upcoming trips

Below: PGA Professional John Cheetham tweeting and using great imagery about recent and upcoming trips

and while you’re away to keep followers back at home up to date with the amazing golf courses you have visited and make them wish they were there too! You don’t have to be a professional photographer to use this! With an array of filters on offer, you can make any picture look great. Similar to Twitter you can use #hashtags to make it easier for potential clients to discover your trips. Just make sure you keep it simple and relevant to your offering.

Top tip: Post a mouth-watering photo while away on your trip to quickly grab potential customers interest and make them want to sign up to your next break instantly!

Don’t forget to follow Golfbreaks.com Pro Travel on Twitter @Golfbreaks_Pro and Instagram @golfbreaks_pro_travel

PGA Professional Ben Kerr posting a snap on Instagram on a recent break away with his clients

For more information on how the Golf Pro Travel Team at Golfbreaks.com can help, please call 01753 752 880 or email golfpro@golfbreaks.com

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

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D E S T I N A T I O N

G U I D E

Spectacular South Africa Epic golf courses, beautiful weather, and the opportunity to encounter some awesome beasts along the way. What’s not to love about a golf trip to South Africa?

N

owhere encapsulates the aweinspiring drama of South Africa’s landscape quite like the worldfamous Garden Route, the 300-kilometre stretch of south-eastern coastline which is home to many of the nation’s finest golf courses.

It is here that you will find Fancourt Hotel and Golf Estate, a luxury leisure resort that boasts no fewer than three immaculately maintained Gary Player designs, including the majestic Links course, which is consistently voted as the best course in South Africa. Framed by the Outeniqua Mountains and characterised by the mighty dunes that encircle each hole, the Links is nothing short of a masterpiece and complemented by two other world-class layouts in the form of the Montagu and Outeniqua courses, guarantee that Fancourt is revered world-over as a bucket-list golf destination.

A member of the Leading Hotels in the World, golfers will discover a 5* service throughout their stay, be it in the golf academy or within the hotel itself which is set amid 613 of the superbly landscaped countryside.

LEGENDARY GOLF Best known as the “Home of the Extreme 19th”, golfers will discover an equally

The breathtaking Legend Golf and Safari Resort

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The Montagu Course at Fancourt

5-star accommodation at Fancourt Hotel and Golf Estate

FACT FILE Climate and the best time to go unforgettable experience at Legend Golf and Safari Resort.

Like nothing you’ve ever experienced, the 8500-yard layout at the resort carves its way through a 50,000-acre estate, giving ample room for the wildlife, including zebras and giraffes, to roam freely. A different golfing legend was behind the design of each hole on the course, with local stars Trevor Immelman and Retief Goosen among those who had a hand in the unique project. Once you’ve negotiated the course (and its wildlife), why not head on over to the 19th? A helicopter escorts guests to the 430-yard hole, with golfers hitting down a 1,400-foot drop towards a green contoured in the shape of the African continent.

With the opportunity to spot over 55 mammal species, fantastic practice facilities and everything from horse riding to hot air ballooning on offer, the South African resort also serves up the ultimate coaching break.

A ‘world in one country’ the South African climate varies substantially from region to region. The Garden route boasts the world’s second mildest climate and golfers can expect a maritime Mediterranean climate with moderately hot summers and mild winters. Meanwhile at Legend Golf and Safari Resort, in the northeast, visitors will find a sub-tropical climate and those travelling for big game viewing should attempt to travel in the cooler winter months, between May and September.

Getting there Direct flights from London to Johannesburg (11hrs) and Cape Town (11½hrs) depart daily. Legend Golf and Safari Resort is a three hours’ drive north of Johannesburg in the scenic Entabeni Safari Conservancy, while Fancourt is located just 15 minutes from George Airport, which is a short flight from Cape Town.

Top things to do off the course South Africa is one of the most diverse countries in the world.

From wine tasting in the Cape to spotting the ‘Big Five’ in the Kruger National Park, to hiking in the lush mountains, there really is something for everyone.

www.pga.info

T R A V E L

Around the world

Looking to spread your wings and take your group to explore further afield in 2019? Take a look at some of our most popular Worldwide Golf Pro Travel destinations. Don’t forget, you receive 5% commission as a PGA Professional when booking with Golfbreaks.com as well as benefiting from our Breakpoints loyalty scheme.

Fancourt Hotel and Golf Estate 5★, South Africa Key facts

• Great for coaching and leisure breaks • 15 minutes from George Airport • 4 golf courses on-site • Excellent practice facilities • 6 restaurants

★ PGA Pro Package – 2019 travel

• 7 nights bed and breakfast and 7 rounds of golf • From £769 per amateur • Discounted rate for PGA Professionals

Legend Golf and Safari Resort 5★, South Africa Key facts

• Great for coaching and leisure breaks • 3 hours from Johannesburg Airport • 18 holes on-site and home to the “Extreme 19th hole” • Excellent practice facilities • Selection of restaurants

★ PGA Pro Package – 2019 travel

• 7 nights half board and 7 rounds of golf • From £1205 per amateur • Discounted rate for PGA Professionals

Constance Belle Mare Plage 5★, Mauritius Key facts

• Great for coaching and leisure breaks • 60 minutes from Sir Ramgoolam International Airport • 2 championship golf courses on-site • Excellent practice facilities • 7 restaurants

★ PGA Pro Package – 2019 travel

• 7 nights All Inclusive and 7 days unlimited golf • From £1345 per amateur • PGA Professional goes FREE with 7 amateurs

The Holly Inn at Pinehurst 5★, USA Key facts

• Great for coaching and leisure breaks • 2 hours from Charlotte Douglas Airport • 8 championship golf courses on-site • Excellent practice facilities • Home to The 1895 Grille – Pinehurst’s best Four-Diamond restaurant

★ PGA Pro Package – 2019 travel

• 7 nights bed & breakfast and 4 rounds of golf • From £1135 per amateur • PGA Professional goes FREE with 7 amateurs

*For more information on how the Golf Pro Travel Team at Golfbreaks.com can help, please call 01753 752 880 or email golfpro@golfbreaks.com

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

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F E A T U R E

New rules for 2019 Introduction to the 2019 Rules of Golf regional workshops.

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hese complimentary two-hour workshops will be delivered by members of The PGA’s Tournament Department and are designed to help you get ready and prepared for the major changes, no matter what role you play within the golf industry.

During the workshop you will learn about the main principle changes to the rules of golf, the new terminology used in the interpretation of the rules, what the key areas on the golf course are and the new procedures when dropping a ball, taking relief and other ways of proceeding under a rule.

Places are limited and will be on a ‘first come, first served’ basis so please book early, through the Members’ login at www.PGA.info where you can find the courses through the Jobs & Career Development link / Training and Education.

A new Official Guide to the Rules of Golf is also available in print, digital, on website and app.

REMAINING REGIONAL WORKSHOP SCHEDULE IRISH REGION Roganstown Hotel & Country Club Monday 26 November 2018, 11am EAST REGION Bishop’s Stortford Golf Club Tuesday 27 November, 5.30pm SCOTTISH REGION West Lothian Golf Club, 3.30pm Thursday 6 December

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY IN THE SUN Established golf business for sale based in The Algarve, Portugal.

Great opportunity for a PGA Pro to relocate and have immediate earnings from golf bookings, club hire, golf holidays and other leisure activities. (no coaching involved presently but could be an option).

For more details Email:golfbusinessalgarve@gmail.com

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www.pga.info

F E A T U R E

GOLF'S NEWrules: RULES: KEY Golf’s new keyCHANGES changes GOLF'S RULES: CHANGES The R&A and the NEW USGA have released golf's newKEY Rules, which will take effect on GOLF'S NEW RULES: KEY CHANGES

The R&A and the USGA haveHere released golf’s new Rules,changes. which will take effect 1, 2019. are fivegolf's of thenew most significant The R&A January and the USGA have released Rules, which will take effect on on January 1, 2019. Here are five of the most significant changes.

1, 2019.

Here are fivegolf's of thenew most significant changes.

The R&A January and the USGA have released Rules, which will take effect on most changes.

How to Drop a BallJanuary 1, 2019. Here are five of the Time forsignificant Ball Search

How to Drop a Ball You will drop your ball from knee height into the relief area.

Time for Ball Search

How to Drop a Ball You will drop your ball from knee height into the relief area.

Time for Ball Search

Three minutes will be the Three minutes maximum will betime the to allotted Three minutes maximum search for a ball, will betime the to allotted rather than the maximum search for afive ball, current allotted timethe to rather than minutes. search for afive ball, current rather than the minutes. current five minutes.

You will drop your ball from knee height into the relief area.

Repairing Spike Marks

Leaving Flagstick in the Hole

Repairing Spike Marks

IfLeaving you make aFlagstick in the Hole stroke from on Leaving If you make aFlagstick in the Hole the green and strokeball from your hitson If you make a the green and the flagstick in strokeball from on your hits the hole, there the andin the green flagstick will be no penalty. your ball hits the hole, there the flagstick in will be no penalty. the hole, there will be no penalty.

Repairing Spike Marks

Relaxed Rules in Penalty Area Relaxed Rules in Penalty Area

You will be allowed Rules toRelaxed ground your club in Penalty Area You will beloose allowed and move to ground yourinclub impediments a You will beloose allowed and move penalty area (an to ground yourinclub impediments a of expanded concept and move loose penalty area (an water hazards that impediments in a of expanded concept does not include penalty area (an water hazards that bunkers). expanded concept of does not include water hazards that bunkers). does not include bunkers).

You will be allowed to repair spike marks and You will bedamage allowedon to any other repair spikegreen marks and the putting You other will be allowedon to any caused bydamage a person, repair spikegreen marks and the putting an animal or any other on caused bydamage a person, maintenance practices. theanimal puttingorgreen an caused by a person, maintenance practices. an animal or maintenance practices.

For more information on golf's new Rules, pleaseon visit For more information usga.org or randa.org. golf's new Rules, pleaseon visit For more information usga.org or randa.org. golf's new Rules, please visit The new Rules will go into usga.org or randa.org. effect onRules January The new will1,go2019. into effect onRules January The new will1,go2019. into effect on January 1, 2019.

© 2018 R&A Rules Limited and the United States Golf Association. All rights reserved. © 2018 R&A Rules Limited and the United States Golf Association. All rights reserved. © 2018 R&A Rules Limited and the United States Golf Association. All rights reserved.

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

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C O A C H I N G

O P I N I O N

The promise of mental health and wellbeing in elite and professional golf

Kitrina Douglas (left) and David Carless

This month’s coaching article is written by guest writers Kitrina Douglas and David Carless from Leeds Beckett University, Leeds.

“I don’t think I’ve ever told This story to anyone But since this isn’t me This is anonymous; I threw a few games.

I deliberately lipped out, the relief was fantastic I knew, I just don’t know Just the pressure, just didn’t want it any more And that was when I was 18, didn’t want the pressure”

I

n 2004, we were invited to present our research at a Psychology and Excellence golf conference in the UK. We talked about the research we had been doing in professional golf and presented a number of case studies which included a poetic tale about one golfer who threw a match during an international event (verses one and five appear above). After the conference, two officials from the EGU and ELGA (as they were called at the time) demanded to know The PGA Professional

| November 2018

who the player was. They were furious and wanted to take measures to ban the player, yet showed no concern for the individual’s health, nor were they interested to talk further about how their organisations may have been complicit. Of course, we would never reveal the identity of a participant.

A couple of weeks later, we presented the same research in Holland. In contrast, their governing bodies called an emergency meeting to explore the issue and wanted to learn

how to lessen the likelihood of something similar happening among Dutch golfers.

When we have presented this research during coach education seminars for the PGA, coaches ask, ‘why didn’t the player speak out? Why didn’t he or she get help?’ and many say ‘Surely someone must have noticed a player self harming?’ The sad fact is, where mental health is concerned, there has been such a lack of understanding, interest and concern, that more often than 45

C O A C H I N G

‘‘

In terms of mental health, competing in sport at a high level is not as ‘risk free’ an activity as many people assume.

‘‘

not, nothing happens. In our research, we have witnessed the long term consequences to a professional golfer’s mental health when they describe rape, sexual abuse, substance misuse, bullying, depression, self harming and attempted suicide. If you began reading this article thinking all is well with the mental health of golfers, this may come as a shock.

You may be thinking ‘how come I didn’t know about this?’ Research has shown that silence is just one of the challenges likely to face an athlete struggling with their mental health. Other challenges include discrimination by clinicians who may not understand diagnostic and therapeutic issues unique to sport; ignorance and a lack of interest, care, provision and support from governing organisations in sport. Furthermore, stress and anxiety surrounding competition, a loss of autonomy due to the typical policing policies that have developed in contemporary amateur high performance sport, along with other lifestyle challenges unique to sport, may increase athletes’ susceptibility to mental illnesses.

O P I N I O N

In terms of mental health, competing in sport at a high level is not as ‘risk free’ an activity as many people assume. Myths, ignorance and misunderstanding about what its like to be a pro athlete and what mental health and illness is or looks like, have led to some catastrophic outcomes.

In the most extreme cases, there have been deaths and suicides: the German national goal-keeper Robert Enke in 2009, World champion surfer Andy Irons at the age of 32 in 2010 and Wales’ most capped footballer and national team manager Gary Speed in

2011 are a few of them. The deaths of Enke and Irons received a great deal of media attention. For the first time, the sporting world heard that these athletes had been receiving treatment for mental health conditions (for Enke this was depression and Irons was bi-polar). That few people knew about their mental health concerns, and that neither individual felt comfortable with allowing these facts to be known, is an illustration of how mental illness within sport is often shrouded in stigma, fear and silence.

On a brighter note, more recently, a number of high-profile sports people have begun to talk publicly about their experiences of serious mental illnesses. Among these are cricketer Marcus Trescothick; snooker player Ronnie O’Sullivan; boxer Frank Bruno; athlete Denise Lewis; gymnast Gloria Viseras and golfer David Feherty. Speaking out and becoming informed go hand in hand.

It’s not just down to these individuals to speak openly about their experiences. The wider sporting public, and in our case the golf community, also has a responsibility to listen without being judgmental, to be empathetic and caring, and to become better informed and better prepared.

RESEARCH IN GOLF In their review of mental illness and diagnosis among athletes, Reardon and Factor (2010) note that the most frequently diagnosed mental illnesses among athletes are clinical depression, overtraining syndrome and eating and mood disorders. But of course, not all people who have concerns about their mental health seek help.

In contrast to the colossal amount of research that has explored how to win, there has been very little research into the mental health, welfare and well-being of golfers. What we have learned from available research is that numerous factors negatively impact mental health and well-being. These include overtraining, burnout, sexual abuse, rape, bullying, injury, death of a close relative, sexuality, cultural expectations, policing regimes and injury. Additional

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| November 2018

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it’s understandable that any competing golfer would want to mask their ‘perceived’ weaknesses as it may give their opponents an edge, threaten endorsements and sponsorship, or in amateur golf lessen chances of being selected for a team

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IMPLICATIONS FOR A PGA PROFESSIONAL No individual can meet these challenges alone. A good first step, though, would be to elevate our concern for the person (and their holistic well-being) above our concern for their performance. As we suggested in our book chapter: “if we ask questions about non-performance related things (such as the countries visited, people, politics, food, fashion, or wine) it demonstrates these ‘other things’ are important, of interest to us, valuable activities, and that time

➠ ➠ ➠

factors include de-selection and retirement, which can threaten the very personhood and identity of the individual.

Gaining an accurate picture about prevalence is difficult for a number of reasons.

Firstly, the culture of golf and sport in general, makes it seem as if being mentally tough is not only valued but a pre-requisite to winning. Given that being mentally unwell is seen as a weakness (in performance terms) it’s understandable that any competing golfer would want to mask their ‘perceived’ weaknesses as it may give their opponents an edge, threaten endorsements and sponsorship, or in amateur golf lessen his or her chances of being selected for a team. We don’t know how many young people have self-harmed or used alcohol or other substances either as a form of escape or to excel. We don’t know how many young people feel bullied, or feel they can’t talk about anxieties or depression. However, many of us may have seen the evidence of someone who has self harmed, or used alcohol or other substances. Many of us will have noticed behaviour changes in young people, but perhaps its easier to label them a trouble maker, and put it down to adolescent behaviour, or some other event in their lives. Too often, the signs are there, but they are ignored. This may be down to feeling it’s not our place to intervene, or we don’t know what to say or do – or perhaps we don’t listen and of course, we don’t expect it in our backyard. So what can you do?

O P I N I O N

invested in them is well spent. Over time, it is these types of actions (and the opportunity to have them validated through sharing stories) that helps develop ‘the person’ as opposed to ‘the golfer’.”

Effective response to current mental health challenges, though, requires a commitment from the golf community to meaningful change. If you would like to be a more proactive member of this community, consider attending a Mental Health Awareness Seminar or conference. You might also read about the subject to become better informed. Given the problems revealed by many club pro’s during our seminars, you

might also think a little more about your own mental health.

Another positive move would be to hold a mental health seminar at your club or for your county/country if you are an official.

If you would like additional information or to attend a special conference exploring mental health and illness in sport please visit http://boomerang-project.org.uk If you are curious to read a more detailed version of this article, or any of the other subjects within the Routledge International Handbook of Golf Science, why not purchase a copy from either the ‘Routledge’ or ‘Amazon’ websites.

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M A R K E T I N G

Keeping your customers warm Antje Derks shares some ideas about how you can grow your golf business during the winter

REMARKETING Many golf pros have a love-hate relationship with email marketing. Some feel they’re not as “sexy” as social media, but in my opinion, email newsletters are still the most effective way to communicate with your audience – especially because they can be targeted to specific groups. As previously discussed, email databases need to be cleaned and updated regularly and segmented into target groups (families, youth, female players etc). If you’ve got an email list already developed, offer off-season specials to subscribers. These people signed up for golf-related news, so make

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sure your messaging stays on target.

Remarketing is another great means of targeting new clients, but it only works if it’s done properly. In a nutshell, remarketing happens when you’ve browsed a website, left the website and

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potential clients may think that you are closed for business, so it’s up to you to attract them with some enticing offers

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nfortunately, the golf season isn’t a twelve month a year venture for many of us. Autumn is well and truly upon us and winter is round the corner – gone are the heady summer days and long, light evenings that golf pros rely on. The weather has taken a turn for the worse and only the stalwarts will venture out onto the course – unless there is a rare break in the weather. Because our profession is largely reliant on clement conditions, it is hard – but not impossible – for you to grow your business during the ‘off’ season. As a golf professional, it is vital that you make extra effort during the winter to attract new customers as well as retain existing ones. In this article, we will look at the opportunities there are for off-season revenue generation with the help of some savvy digital strategies.

then the company pops up on your social media or other website in the form of an advert. Providing you are prepared to put in some planning and do a little research into the mechanics of remarketing, it is possible to create a campaign that will target the people visiting your site. Think of it this way – imagine someone was browsing your site looking for golf lessons, but then left. They would be served adverts when they visit other sites or log in to

Facebook, which means your lessons and club will stay front of mind – it’s advertising by stealth. The best way to launch a campaign is to set up remarketing tags on your website and start compiling your lists. Use remarketing to encourage those that have visited your website in the past to come back and find out more – especially what you have to offer during the winter months.

TEAM BUILDING A lot of potential clients may think that you are closed for business during the winter, so it’s up to you to attract them with some enticing offers. It might be that you do some special rates for block lesson bookings or put on a kids’ golf camp during the winter breaks. Parents are often desperate for things to do with their energetic offspring. Get on good terms with your local schools and see whether you can put an advert into their newsletter or even write a short piece.

Additionally, companies are often looking for novel ways to give their teams a treat over the Christmas period. You could combine a golf day with a meal at the club house. While the lessons may be fun, you might pick up some new clients. The same goes for team building days. Once you’ve come up with some ideas, you’ll need to get creative on the digital side to get the word out. Targeted advertising and social media are two ways to reach niche groups of people with specific messaging.

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M A R K E T I N G Once you have your list of revenue generlive sessions in advance on social media are an automatic by-product of such an ating opportunities and have determined using a number of key hashtags that you exercise and won’t need any hard selling. which groups of people would appreciate have searched up in advance – as well as Remember – if you give people some new them, you need to use targeted adverts flagging what you’re doing in your email knowledge combined with entertainment through Facebook and Google to reach bulletin – you should get a good show and the opportunity to ask questions, you your specific audience groups with relewill stand a much better chance of gainvant ads. However, a word of caution ing their attention and holding it too.

– don’t use online advertising as a Lastly, you could offer an off-seaSocial media is another blanket marketing tool. It needs to be son membership as part of a lesson used wisely because there is a fine line great weapon in your winter package. That way new clients get to between staying at the forefront of peolearn some skills as well as getting a armoury. Beginners and ple’s minds and getting on their nerves. feel for the club. Make it accessible improvers are always hungry and fun – it’s a great way of bringing for knowledge, especially if SOCIAL WEAPONS in new business with a view to retainSocial media is another great weapon ing it when things get going again in it will improve their game in your winter armoury. Golfers – the spring. Furthermore, if new clibeginners and improvers – are always ents have had lessons throughout the hungry for knowledge, especially if it winter – whether on the course or the will improve their game. Twitter and Faceon the day. It’s a great way of introducing range – they will be more confident to try book have ‘live’ options, which means you yourself and the club to potential clients out their new found knowledge and skills can film in real time. As a pro, you can set as well as offering a ‘value add’ to existwhen the weather cheers up. yourself up to film on the course or the ing ones. Just bear in mind, though, that range or even a simulator if you have one. social is about engagement and content, It’s a brilliant way to answer questions in not a huge sales pitch. A pro who regularly real time and address any problem areas offers live streaming will build an audi✓ Make sure your email lists are your clients may have. If you market these ence – the lessons, shop and other facilities

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Get it done this month segmented and up-to-date and start to put together some content to target specific groups

✓ Ask your local schools if you can place an ad in their newsletter or even write some content to encourage younger players into the game

✓ Think about team building golf days or Christmas party golf sessions and send out an email flyer to local companies

✓ Go live on social – offer interactive clinics – but make sure you market them in advance

✓ Look at remarketing opportunities – but remember not to overkill

✓ Talk to your membership

Don’t leave your customers out in the cold this winter

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

secretary and see whether there is scope to offer cheaper off-season membership in conjunction with a lesson package

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Face(book) value Like perfecting your swing, making Facebook profitable takes both time and practice, says Antje Derks

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o matter who you’re wanting to reach, pretty much all internet users do two things on an almost daily basis – they use search engines and they use Facebook. As a golf pro and small business owner, your aim is to entice people away from other websites and pages to visit your own. There are a few ways you can achieve this – one is by running an ad campaign on search engines such as Google in the hope that you gain a high click-through rate or you target audiences through ad campaigns on social platforms like Facebook.

As you know, your target audience will frequent various parts of the web, but almost all of them will use a search engine and Facebook, which is why a well placed advert on Facebook has a high chance of success. That’s why they are so important,

and why I keep banging on about SEO and social media marketing. Once you’ve found your target audience, you just need a way of getting your content under their noses.

ADVERTISE On Facebook you can do this in several ways, but the most effective is to advertise.

If you do it properly, you will see your leads increase. Indeed, statistics show that there are well over a million small businesses like yours that advertise on Facebook – and it’s growing all the time. However, there are the nay-sayers who try it once, don’t get results and write it off completely. That’s because they either didn’t target their ad correctly or they didn’t give it the time to be successful.

Like anything, getting your advertising right on Facebook takes a bit of time and practice – much like perfecting your swing.

It’s rare you have a complete beginner walk onto a course and have a swing and stance to die for – it’s similar to you when you start your first Facebook ad campaign. It will likely be a little shaky and off kilter, but practice does make perfect.

As you will know, there are hundreds of things competing for your audiences’ clicks – advertising copy being one of them. Bearing this in mind when you create your ad is key. It needs to stand out from the crowd.

You need to find away to grab attention and hit your target market.

So, not only do you need to stand out from regular content, you also need to stand out against ads from large brands who spend a lot of money optimising their ads to get attention by your shared target market. In order to beat Goliath, you will need an awesome image, a banging description and a headline news editors would kill for. The most important one that affects click through rate, however, is the image.

Imagery is important in your marketing campaign. Not only does it take up the most space, but it’s also the only way you can get

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your ad is key. It needs to stand out from the crowd.

You need to find away to grab attention and hit your target market.

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your ad to stand out from everything else on the screen. The best performing image is one that contributes to the message of your ad, but also stands out from everyone else’s with the same target market. The best way to stand out among other golf pros and clubs is to do exactly the opposite of what 50

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it’s difficult to communicate a message with just an image, so your description needs to be attention grabbing enough to warrant a click through to the content or offer

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your competition is doing. Of course, it’s difficult to communicate a message with just an image, so your description needs to be attention grabbing enough to warrant a click through to the content or offer. Many people have a fancy offer and while these work and get engagement, I’d recommend linking to some great content – that way you have more chance of retention, which is the aim here.

SO HOW DO YOU TARGET YOUR ADVERT? Due to all the data that Facebook has on people, they’ve been able to develop some amazing targeting tools that are very powerful when used in the right way. It is worth testing the various options on offer to see what works best. I’d go with creating a custom audience based on email subscribers. This allows you to upload the email addresses of your customers or subscribers as a .txt file for example.

Possibly the most impressive feature of Facebook advertising is, in my opinion, the option for you to find hundreds of people that match your best customers.

You will need to create a custom audience first and then Facebook will essentially create a ‘lookalike’ audience. This feature can expand your potential audience by thousands of times what it currently is. And, it’s not just any audience, it’s a potential audience that matches the type of people who are already your customers and subscribers.

Facebook advertising is relatively cheap, The PGA Professional

| November 2018

Special offer!

but you still don’t want to be throwing money away on a campaign that isn’t going to deliver a positive return on investment (ROI). You have several options available, but I would opt for the cost per click (CPC). You can set a maximum bid per click and since you are likely to be new to this, I’d suggest starting at the lower end of the range – the lower the bid, the fewer the impressions – but it may be enough for your needs. You can always increase your bids if necessary. I would also suggest spending no more than £5 per day. This will allow you to collect a good sample, over a few weeks, to determine if the ad campaign is worth trying to improve. If your ad just isn’t doing well, ditch it and try another.

success is to test those ads by changing one element – like the image – and see what works best. This takes time, but is worth it in the long run since you’ll end up with a more profitable campaign.

Remember, Facebook represents one of the largest user bases on the entire Internet.

You will find a large portion of your target audience on Facebook through advertising campaigns. Ads are the most effective way for you to reach your target audience quickly and effectively. With solid research, and careful spending, you should see your engagement and business grow.

HAVE A GOAL The goal of your first ads shouldn’t be to get an amazing ROI, because it’s very unlikely that you will. Your goal should be to get a slightly profitable or even a break-even result. You should never start an ad campaign without a specific goal or purpose in mind. It may be you want to drive more traffic to your website or get more Facebook likes for your professional page. The key to

✓ Check out the competition

Get it done this month on Facebook and see how they do their advertising

✓ Get some great images ✓ Think about your goal for your campaign

✓ Work on a snappy description and a headline to die for

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A D V E R T O R I A L

Chigwell Golf Club gets into the swing with Clover Flex and First Data

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higwell Golf Club is steeped in history, after being founded in 1925 and now with up to 500 members using the golf course, the club enjoys a great reputation in Essex. Taking its heritage into account the club is now looking to modernise how it appeals to its members and visitors. One way the Club is doing this is by changing their payment solutions to First Data.

With four Clover Flex devices on site, members can pay for refreshments in the a bar, pay for their green fees with ease and even treat themselves to something new in the club shop. Ben Driver, General Manager at Chigwell Golf Club even has a Clover Flex device in his back office to be able to monitor transactions and complete any daily tasks, he explains: “At a click of a button Clover Flex makes cash processing quick and easy. All of our staff have a 4 digit pin which is unique to them so we can track daily transactions they have taken, whilst in the back office it’s simple to identify any issues very quickly rather than having to wait several days to get a statement.”

How we pay for goods and services in retail and other sectors is changing, with up to 43% of people now not even considering using cash as an option to pay, many are now using chip and pin, contactless, or Apple Pay® payment solutions. Chigwell Golf Club can now support all four of these options using Clover.

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Ben Continues: “It’s more popular now to use contactless or Apple Pay when it comes to our member’s needs. The Clover Flex device is modern technology for a modern club.

The terminal is simple to use and looks great. I didn’t think EPOS systems could look this good and be such a source of discussion, but they are with all of our members. The fact that the Clover Flex’s are very similar to smart phones also makes it easy for my staff to use which is one of my main priorities.”

As an official PGA supplier First Data already deliver significant savings for hundreds of PGA members like Chigwell Golf Club and other associated clubs across the UK. With winter fast approaching, why not take the opportunity to review your current card processing and find out more about First Data’s award-winning card payment technology?

Call 0330 123 1241 (quoting PGA) to speak to one of our team and learn more about the benefits available.

www.pga.info

U S P G A

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S H O W

The PGA Show With just over two months to go until the 2019 PGA Show in Orlando, this month’s PGA Professional takes a look at how Members can enjoy cheaper airfares to the event in January.

2019 PGA Show ★ PGA Member Special ★

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he PGA Show is the golf industry’s annual international gathering with more than 1,000 companies and brands along with 40,000 industry professionals from all over the world expected to attend.

The 66th show will take place from January 22-25 and will once again include exhibits, demonstrations, education seminars, special events and industry

presentations throughout the week.

Key brands such as PING and Titleist will showcase their newest equipment and technology within a comprehensive Equipment Section. Golf lifestyle apparel and accessories will also well represented.

The PGA Teaching and Coaching Sum­ mit takes place two days before from January 20-21 at the Orange County Convention Center.

CASE STUDY Matt Tucknott (PGA Advanced Fellow) “I recently booked some flights to Florida using the Member Benefit scheme which The PGA has been facilitating with various partners including Virgin Atlantic. The process was simple and having emailed the team at Virgin Atlantic, I got a response back within hours and booked the flights within 24-hours which was painless and efficient.

“Although the savings were not huge, about 5 per cent, this did mean as a member, I saved just short of £200 which now can be used whilst away on holiday. Since booking I have contacted the office at Virgin Atlantic to move some seats around which again was simple to do and the service was first class.”

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

★ PGA Members can enjoy a 15 per cent discount off airfares with Virgin Atlantic from Manchester and London Gatwick to the 2019 PGA Show in Orlando (airport taxes are not discounted). ★ Tickets are valid for departure between January 15-22, 2019 while return tickets are valid for one month. ★ To take advantage of this offer visit www.virginatlantic.com and enter GE019 in the discount code box.

Discounts are applicable in all classes of travel – Upper Class, Premium, Economy Delight and Economy Classic. ★ PGA Members also have access to discounted airfares across all of Virgin Atlantic’s network of destinations.

These include Barbados, Miami, Cancun, New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Johannesburg and Las Vegas, and also across an ever expanding connecting network with Delta, their US partners. ★ Discounted flights are available in all cabins and checked golf bag clearance can also be looked at subject to availability for PGA Members.

For more information: email sport@fly.virgin.com or call 0344 2097745. You must quote your PGA Membership number.

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B E N E F I T S

Go on! Treat yourself....

It’s that time of year when an extra perk is never underappreciated, and to help you reward yourself for all your hard work, we’ve compiled some of the best discounts available to you.

Enjoy PGA Benefits lifestyle savings and take advantage of these fantastic offers today.

Catch the latest blockbusters and save money on tickets Get up to 40% off next time you visit the cinema with fantastic discounts available at over 300 nationwide venues. Whether you are seeking action, romance, comedy or thriller, enjoy a great saving every time at both local picture houses and nationwide chains such as Odeon, Vue and Cineworld*.

For more information log on to PGA Benefits

Everyday treats on the high-street, online and in leisure Enjoy savings at your favourite shops with lifestyle vouchers from Red Letter Days. You can save 7% at over 120 of the UK’s top retailers, including John Lewis, Topshop and M&S*. There really is an amazing range of brands to choose from, and your vouchers can even be split across multiple stores, so there’s no need to limit your savings to one retailer*.

For more information log on to PGA Benefits or call 0345 600 7621 and quote PGA

Save on looking smart With a real passion for design and focus on quality, Britain’s T.M. Lewin create fresh, stylish and versatile collections for today’s professional men and women. Members can now take advantage of a special discount and save on suits, shirts and accessories.

For more information log on to PGA Benefits

Great savings on a wide range of Apple products The PGA members can enjoy discounts on fantastic tech from Apple, including iPad, Apple Pencil, HomePod, Apple TV, Mac, Beats by Dr Dre and many 3rd party accessories (discounts subject to availability)*.

Visit the online The PGA EPP Apple store

Public liability insurance Cover is included in your subscription fee (if you are resident and working in the EU). 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.

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

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

ARAG 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.

Exclusive 20% discount for PGA Members* Call 0800 023 2020 or visit opticalexpress.co.uk to arrange your FREE consultation or to book your eye test.

BMW Exclusive contract hire rates on a selection of BMW and MINI models through BMW Group.

Visit bmwvip.co.uk/pga, call 0207 514 3599 or email: pgasales@bmw-issd.co.uk

Peugeot Preferential rates available on a selection of cars over 24 months. Visit peugeot-contract hire.co.uk/pga, contact your local Peugeot dealership, or call the Peugeot Business Quoteline on 0345 313 3811.

PowaKaddy Account holders personal use trolley at a discounted rate of 15 per cent off trade price (non-account holders are eligible for trade price).

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

SkyCaddie Heavily-discounted personal use prices start at £60† for a SkyCaddie GPS or £70† for the SkyPro. Get yourself a SkyTrak Launch Monitor and receive a free metal case and first year software saving £239. Become a SkyTrak Show Case Dealer and earn a bonus 40% affiliate fee (about £600†) on your first sale and 20% fee on any future sales. †+VAT Email sales@skycaddiegps.co.uk or call 01844 296 358.

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Crossover Technologies Golf-specific EPOS system.

The technology manages stock levels, reducing dead stock and therefore helping to increase profit margins.

Contact: 01454 418 395.

Silverbug

B E N E F I T S

Golfbreaks.com Access to bespoke golfing packages for you and your clients through the dedicated Golf Pro Travel Team. Benefit from the best rates in the market. Receive a five per cent commission on your booking.

For an exploratory meeting at your club contact Ben Foster on 07471 034 852 or Darren Bragg 07471 952 102 or email golfpro@golfbreaks.com

Silverbug are IT experts who do things a little differently. Other companies talk about what they can do – but we want to focus on the issue you’re facing, and then fix it. We offer Members: Free IT health check of your business; Up to three months free managed IT services when taking out a contract; Option to leave within the first three months if you change your mind. For more information contact us on 0207 078 3795, quoting PGA.

Aphrodite Hills – Holiday Residences

Birdietime

Aphrodite Hills – Hotel

Offering all Members a free 1-hour marketing consultancy session to identify practical step to increase your tuition revenues.

To book your session, email us at info@birdietime.com Visit birdietimepro.com to learn more about our online booking and payment system.

Huxley Golf Incentive programme of up to £500 in commission when recommending customers to purchase an all-weather home putting green.

Call +44 (0)1730 829 608 or visit huxleygolf.com

First Data Preferential rates to PGA members for accepting credit and debit cards.

Call 0330 123 1241 quoting PGA.

Coca-Cola Special packages on products and coolers.

For more information visit coca-colapga.com

Exclusive, convenient and delivered to your door Members get monthly exclusive deals with Brakes they can’t get anywhere else. With online ordering, 24-hour delivery and easy to use templates, you can maximise your revenue and minimise your time by setting up a Brakes account today! brake.co.uk/pga

25% discount on public rates with minimum stay of five nights (seven nights’ minimum stay during July and August). Valid for all apartments, junior villas and superior villa holiday bookings for 2018.

Contact: reservations@aphroditehills.com quoting: PGA Professional

20% discount from package rates. aphroditehills.com Contact: reservations_mgr_AH@atlanticahotels.com quoting: PGA Professional

Pestana Vila Sol, Vilamoura, Algarve Luxury five-star resort, host venue for the Lombard Trophy grand final 15 per cent discount to Members and amateur participants in each regional final. Book direct through pestana.com/en/hotel/ pestana-vila-sol using promo code: 20516W0LX.

Antalya Golf Club and Sirene Hotel Attractive all-inclusive rates for you and your family. Contact volkan.cavusoglu@sirene.com.tr

Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa Newly refurbished, luxurious four-star accommodation from just £78 per room B&B (max. two occupants) and includes use of the upgraded pool and health club. Member deals available Sunday to Thursday for business or leisure. Contact Mark Williams on 01704 875 699 or reservations@formbyhallgolfresort.co.uk

Mars Provide retail expertise to help maximise your return. Benefit from point of sale promotions and receive guidance on how to choose an appropriate product range.

For further info, contact richard.hobday@effem.com

To access all of these benefits and more, log on to http://www.pga.info/members-landing.aspx

To access all of these benefits and more, log on to http://www.pga.info/members-landing.aspx *Terms and conditions apply to all benefits. See website for details. Offers correct at time of printing. The Cinema Society – Discounts vary between cinema venues. Please check when purchasing vouchers, registration to The Cinema Society is required to access discount. T.M. Lewin – Cannot be redeemed against previous purchases or used in conjunction with any other offer, voucher, discount code or gift card purchases. Apple – Annual purchase limits apply. For the latest offers visit the Apple EPP store. PGA Benefits is managed and run on behalf of The PGA by Parliament Hill Ltd.

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

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S I T U A T I O N S Churston Golf Club Head Professional Established in 1890, Churston is a stunning parkland course with amazing coastal sea views over Torbay.

Designed by Harry Colt, the course is considered one of the premier courses in the South West and once the home of original Ryder Cup Captain Ted Ray. Churston Golf Club requires an experienced PGA Professional to run a fully stocked shop, indoor tuition/ custom fitting Centre, develop the current practice facilities and associated Academy structure.

The successful candidate must be a self-motivated high achiever with excellent interpersonal and organisational skills, with an overall focus on excellent customer service.

IT literacy and good numeracy skills are essential.

Key responsibilities: • Establishing and operating a well-stocked shop with appropriate staffing levels.

• Ensure staff provide excellent service levels to members and visitors at all times.

• Develop a thriving Academy to provide a path-way from beginner to elite player programmes.

• Work closely with the club directors on sales and marketing strategies, focussing on income generation.

• Ensuring competition responsibilities are carried out on competition days (club, corporate, society and open days).

In first instance, please send a covering letter and CV demonstrating your suitability and experience to manager@churstongolf.com Closing Date: 20th November 2018.

V A C A N T

Birdie International Golf Academy, Guangzhou, China Full-Time Teaching Professional Resume Deadline: 30/12/2018 Job Description: • Implement and execute all facets of the golf instruction programme • Train competitive junior players • Organise and coach group sessions for 10-30 children • Have knowledge of U.S. junior amateur golf tournament circuit • Ability to use JC Video, GC2, launch monitors, and other modern training aids and video equipment in golf lessons • Minimum 3 to 5 years teaching experience; Class “A” PGA Certification.

Compensation: Round trip ticket home every year; housing and food. Contact: Catherine Ren at birdiegolfacademy@163.com

Birdie International Golf Academy, China Golf Fitness Trainer •Train Junior beginner, competitive junior, adult players •Both familiarity with personal and group training sessions •Minimum 12 months’ working experience •Certification in CPR and First Aid required •Fitness Certification from Accredited Association.

•TPI Level 1 Certificate •Assist interpreters to maintain complete and accurate records as required (i.e. student physicals, parental consents, lesson summaries) •Assist and help train the assistant fitness coaches •Promote personal training, clinics and wellnessrelated opportunities. Benefit: Plane ticket, accommodation, food, and work visa. Contact Catherine Ren at: birdiegolfacademy@163.com before the end of November.

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

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S I T U A T I O N S

V A C A N T Whitefield Golf Club Self-Employed Head Professional

We are seeking a PGA Professional to fill an exciting coaching position at Essendon Country Club, Hertfordshire. We are a forward thinking, modern club with a YES mentality and seeking a Professional who is enthusiastic about growing the game. The role includes the running, organising and delivery of our ever-growing Academy Program (no shop hours required).You will receive a competitive salary based on hours worked and 100% of your personal coaching income. If you are keen to progress your career and be part of something truly different please apply with CV to the General Manager: jonny@essendoncc.com

In Store Golf Professional Teaching/Custom Fit Sales position available at brand new store in London on Oxford Street. Applicants need to be motivated and highly driven. The position will include a strong knowledge of golf sales as well as custom-fitting and teaching in a state-of-the-art foresights GC2 simulator with HMT. This role has great earning potential for someone who is personable and passionate about golf, with the ability to drive their own lessons and custom-fit sessions. Please apply with CV and cover letter to Garo Avakian at: garo@capitalgolf.com

PGA Qualified Teaching Professional A great opportunity for an enthusiastic newly qualified PGA Teaching Professional to deliver both group and individual lessons at the prestigious Edgbaston Golf Club. Great balance of member and visitor lessons, plus guaranteed income from coaching programmes already in place. Facilities include floodlit short game area, indoor swing room with Trackman and GASP and covered Huxley long game area. The role would also require off-site schools coaching. The professional should be pro-active and strive to deliver an exceptional service. The successful applicant can achieve company bonus payments for coaching and retail. Entries close 16th November 2018. Applicants should apply with CV and cover letter to josh@davidfulchergolf.co.uk

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

The PGA Professional

| November 2018

Whitefield Golf Club established in 1932 is a premier members’ club in Greater Manchester. Our pro shop is undergoing a full refurbishment and together with our newly built indoor swing room will provide excellent facilities for our new head professional to cater for our members and visitors. We are seeking an enthusiastic well qualified individual to run a retail shop, provide tuition, club fitting and repair services for our members and visitors.

Key responsibilities: • Develop a support team to deliver a high standard of customer service.

• Greet, host, support and inspire our members and visitors.

• Operate and maintain a stocked pro shop.

• Work as part of a team with the Director of Golf & General Manager to take the club forward.

• Be responsible for coaching, club fitting and tuition programmes.

• Assist with marketing and promotion of the club.

• Assist with the management of society and corporate days.

• Provide a key role in the development of a junior section, for members and the surrounding areas.

Interested applicants should send their CV, covering letter and CPD record to: Susan Beirne, Whitefield Golf Club, Higher Lane, Whitefield M45 7EZ or: susan@whitefieldgolfclub.com by 30 November 2018.

Wells Golf Club invite applications for the position of Head Club Professional.

The role is to take personal responsibility for the delivery and development of all aspects of the golf operations and to ensure that member and guests expectations are constantly met and exceeded. Our facilities include the pro shop, indoor performance studio, driving range, practice chipping and putting areas.

The successful candidate will need to demonstrate their ability to: • Work as part of a team to take the club forward.

• Manage the tee booking, societies and associated packages using BRS/ClubVi. • Administer club competitions, club opens and corporate golf days.

• Actively market the club to external agencies (i.e. local schools, sports clubs, business’s etc.) to attract potential new members.

• Continually align the professional services to the wants of the golf club.

• Develop tuition to potential golfers to increase participation across all genders and ages.

CV’s and supporting information by November 19, 2018 for the attention of: Mr M R Shave - Private and Confidential, Wells (Somerset) Golf Club Ltd, Blackheath Lane, East Horrington, Wells, Somerset BA5 3DS or email to mikeshave@hotmail.com

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E M P L O Y M E N T

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

UK AND IRELAND Hylands Golf Complex, Essex

Opportunity for experienced, self-employed PGA Teaching Professional at floodlit Driving Range with 14 covered and several outside bays in Chelmsford area. Suitable candidates need to be reliable, self-motivated and excel in coaching all ages and abilities.

Email CV and covering letter to helenmarcou.hgc@outlook.com before 14th December.

Ilkley Golf Club, West Yorkshire

Ilkley Golf Club requires a PGA assistant / Trainee. 30 hours per week. Fantastic opportunity for a motivated candidate with strong communication skills to join a vibrant professional team providing first class customer service. Excellent coaching opportunities and playing is encouraged. Apply with CV and covering letter to pro@ilkleygolfclub.co.uk.

Hindhead Golf Club, Surrey

Excellent opportunity for a self-motivated candidate with solid communication skills and attention to detail. Candidate will work shift system in a team of 3 PGA staff. Apply with full CV and cover letter to Mr I Benson, Hindhead GC, Churt Rd, Hindhead, Surrey, GU26 6HX. Or via email ian@bensongolf.co.uk.

Stanton on the Wold Golf Club, Nottingham

Stanton on the Wolds require an Assistant/Trainee to join our team at a friendly members club with excellent practice facilities great opportunity to gain experience in coaching playing retail and custom fitting. Looking for a motivated hard-working individual. Please apply with CV and cover letter to nick.hernon@tiscali.co.uk.

Edgbaston Golf Club, Birmingham

An exciting opportunity for a Trainee Assistant to join an ambitious professional team, on a 30-hour contract. Role includes: retail, coaching and golf event management. Applicant would need to be hard working and eager to learn.

Applicants should apply with CV and cover letter to josh@davidfulchergolf.co.uk.

Mardyke Valley Golf Club, South Ockendon, Essex

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Disley Golf Club, Cheshire

Competitive Edge Golf at Disley Golf Club is looking for a Trainee/ PGA Assistant at an 18-hole members golf club. Role includes, retail, group coaching, custom fitting in the swing studio, golf event planning and club repair training. Applicants must be flexible and reliable. Please send CV and covering letter to Scott Jackson at cegolf100@gmail.com.

Rutland County Golf Club, Lincolnshire

Rutland County Golf Club require a Trainee/PGA Professional at 27-hole complex with driving range. Role includes retail, coaching and club repairs. For more detail on the role, tel 07956 639846. Please send CV and letter to Jasen Barker at jasenbarker70@gmail.com.

Erewash Valley Golf Club, Derbyshire

Head Professional required for a busy and prestigious private members club. A key member of the team, excellent customer services, self motivation, membership recruitment and retention, golf development as well as retail and lessons. Additional opportunity with a new driving range. Covering letter and CV by 12th November to golfadmin@erewashvalley.co.uk.

GUI National Golf Academy, Ireland

Fixed contract opportunity for an aspiring coach to work at a facility which hosts National Panels and Team Ireland golfers. Email applications to include CV and cover letter in a single PDF to Alan Kelly at alan@gui.ie before 5pm 30th November. Interviews on 14th December, job to commence from 1st February.

The Manor Golf Club, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Looking to recruit a PGA Professional in a purely teaching role with use of a private teaching bay. Available to provide lessons Saturday, Sunday and coach a junior academy on Saturdays. Selfemployed position with commissions/bay rentals to be negotiated.

Send CV and cover letter to mark@themanorleeds.co.uk before 23rd November.

OVERSEAS The Royal Golf Club, Bahrain (Overseas)

Exciting Opportunity for a motivated, personable training applicant or registered assistant to develop career at a busy golf club near Lakeside. The role involves 30 clubhouse hours p/w, plus opportunity to develop own coaching portfolio and time to play. Send CV and application to neel.retief@mardykevally.co.uk.

The Royal Golf Club is excited to announce the exceptional career opportunity of full-time Assistant Golf Professional. Qualified candidates will thrive in a hospitality environment and be highly focused on providing superior service. Ideal for a newly qualified PGA Professional, trainee, or training applicant. Applications to contact s.sellars@theroyalgolfclub.com.

Hadley Wood Golf Club, Hertfordshire

Thai Country Club, Thailand – Internship

The Professional team at Hadley Wood Golf Club is looking to recruit an ambitious teaching professional. The successful candidate will be motivated to grow our junior academy and carry out lessons at a thriving golf club with outstanding facilities.

Shop hours and remuneration negotiable. Send CVs to alastair_archibald@hotmail.com.

An exciting internship opportunity has arisen at Thai Country Club in Bangkok for 1st Jan 2019 to 31st March 2019. The role will provide a fantastic opportunity to gain overseas experience in club management and operations at one of Asia’s best facilities.

For further details and how to apply, please email johnblanch@thaicountryclub.com.

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