Yorkshire Golfer – February

GOLFER Yorkshire

Celebrating the best in club and county

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Huddersfield’s Charlotte is

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CHRIS HANSON LAUNCHES 22-EVENT YORKSHIRE TOUR IS BEN THE NEXT FLEETWOOD...?

Schmidt just can’t stop winning!

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February 2020

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February 2020 Yorkshire Golfer is published by League Weekly Ltd, 31 Branch Road, Batley, W. Yorks WF17 5SB Tel 01924 470296 for subscriptions & deliveries

IN THIS ISSUE HE’S BACK Chris Hanson has a 2020 bounce in his step as he looks to reinvigorate his career while launching a new all-gender county-wide event with caddie Adam Walker p4 NO PRESSURE THEN Top Sky man Nick Dougherty says Ben Schmidt could be the next Tommy Fleetwood after his latest win – this one in Australia p5 BIRDIE MACHINE ‘Jigger’ Thomson rolls in nine birdies in a row to join exclusive recordbreaking club at Palmares Open p6

Contents are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced wholly or in part without permission of the publishers ADVERTISING: S a n d r a K i r t o n 0 7 7 7 1 8 8 5 7 5 7 sandra@yorkshire-golfer.com EDITORIAL: mike@yorkshire-golfer.com

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visit our website: www.yorkshiregolfer.net WINNERS ARE GRINNERS In fact it was only 3rd place in the South African Open, but it was a putt that earned Marcus Armitage £70,000 – and a place in The Open p7

IN THE HEART OF TOWN Oakdale’s doorstep delights 10/11

OLIVER’S HONOUR: Crosland Heath junior is new Yorkshire County Boys Captain for 2020. p12

NEW BEGINNINGS Iain Pyman has his eyes set firmly on an eventual Seniors Tour spot as he leaves to start a new golf life at Aphrodite Hills in Cyprus p13

LIVING THE DREAM Fixby professional James Robinson finds a whole new world opening up via his Youtube channel p14 ANGEL OF THE NORTH Focus on the HS Colt creation Northumberland Golf Club – with its handy but novel location! p18

Spread your club's good news... email your results, open events, photographs and news items to us on: news@yorkshire-golfer.com and follow us on Twitter @yorkshiregolfer THE NEXT ISSUE OF YORKSHIRE GOLFER WILL BE DELIVERED TO CLUBS ON THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2020

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February 2020

BRILLIANT BRIT Fixby star goes eight-up after first round and seals a commanding 7/6 win in Australia

Charlotte reigns at Royal Queensland

DIALLING IN: Charlotte Heath in action

Huddersfield’s Charlotte Heath became the first Brit in 24 years and only the fifth in the 126-year history to win the Australian Women’s Amateur – and she did it in spectacular style.

Heath was unstoppable against Indonesia’s Mela Putri, 22, on her way to a 7&6 victory in the 36-hole final at Royal Queensland Golf Club.

Yorkshire county player Heath got off to a fast start and was three up after five holes and remained dominant when the contest was on the line, winning or halving the first 20 holes. On completion of the first round, Heath’s lead was a commanding eight up.

In the afternoon, the 18-yearold tightened her grip by holing her 5-iron approach to the third hole from 180 yards for an eagle two and increased the advantage to 10 holes.

“It just ran into the hole,” said a surprised Heath.

Putri was eventually able to stem the bleeding with a spirited fightback, the Indonesian winning four of the next five holes after her opponent’s flash of brilliance, including a chip-in of her own for eagle on the par-5 seventh.

But another birdie on 10 for Heath and a half on the 11th meant the writing was on the wall for Putri, the match coming to its inevitable conclusion on the 31st hole.

Heath rammed home a sublime 12-footer from off the green at the short par-4 12th to snatch a half and write her name into the Australian Amateur record books.

After picking up the trophy England squad member Heath said: “It was a bit stressful and I was super nervous to start with.”

“I got off to quite a quick start so that helped and then the second 18 she started playing really good, so it was a really intense match.

“I made two bogies and then she made two birdies, so I dropped quite a few,” Heath added, “But then I just kind of kept my head and kept going.”

The 7&6 victory is Heath’s first in a national championship and just her third anywhere in the world, following two previous wins back home in the Sir Henry Cotton Junior Masters and the Pleasington Putter.

However, the win Down Under is by far the most significant of her fledgling career and

catapulted her up the world rankings from her current position of 226.

As she hovered over the match winning putt, the teenager said: “I was just like ‘hole it’ – it was for a half anyway so if I missed it and it went six feet past it didn’t really matter.”

As well as the honour and the trophy she was invited to compete in two LPGA events.

Heath qualified for the match play event by finishing in a tie for 17th in the stroke play.

Rounds of 71 and 74 saw her enter the knockout stages somewhat under the radar.

But while Cornwall’s Emily Toy and top seed – winner of the stroke play – unfortunately fell at the first hurdle to eventual finalist Putri, Heath built up momentum as the week went on.

A 4&2 win over Australia’s Fiona Xu earned Heath a place in the last 16 where another local hero – Charley Jacobs – was swept aside by the same score.

On Saturday, a third Aussie was put to the sword in the quarter-finals when Heath triumphed over the much-fancied Lian Higo by an emphatic 3&2 winning margin.

South Korea’s Minju Kim

was the next opponent for Heath, but with confidence growing the English women’s international notched another impressive 3&2 win.

Then came the crowning glory with Heath thoroughly deserving of her plaudits over a course where many of the holes were redesigned by Yorkshire born course architect Dr Alister MacKenzie in 1926.

After her mum negotiated time off from Brighouse High School, Heath will now play in this week’s (Feb 6-9) Vic Open at 13th Beach Golf Links in Barwon Heads, and the Women’s Australian Open at Royal Adelaide Feb 13-16.

With aspirations to turn pro after college, starts at two of the country’s largest professional women’s events, both sanctioned by the LPGA tour, will be a dream come true.

“I’ve never played in any (LPGA) events before, so hopefully I can get it off school,” Heath said immediately after her win. “My mum is working on it…”

Photo (and cover image) credit: Golf Australia

England’s men head to Africa inspired by Heath TOP amateur Jake Bolton insists every England player has been inspired by watching Yorkshire’s Charlotte Heath’s secure a brilliant victory in the Australian Women’s Amateur Championship.

Bolton and Sam Bairstow from Hallowes are part of a strong England contingent announced for four tournaments in South Africa this month. Alongside 21-year-old Bolton and Bairstow (21), Gloucestershire’s Joe Long (22) and Northamptonshire’s Robin Williams (18) will represent England at the African Amateur Championship, South African Stroke Play Championship, South African Amateur Championship and Cape Province Open on consecutive weeks throughout February.

Huddersfield Golf Club member and

England women’s squad player Heath put in a dominant performance to win the Australian Amateur title and set the ball rolling on what could be a fantastic year of golf for England’s elite players.

And Bolton hopes the men can continue the early-season charge when they land on African soil. Bolton said: “Charlotte’s win in Australia was a great way to start the year.

“When you see other England players doing well on the world stage it just makes you want to add to the success story.

“I know the four lads going to South Africa are all desperate to do well and hopefully get their hands on more silverware.

“This will be my first time in South Africa, but we have some experience on the team with Joe having played over there a couple

of times. Robin was born in South Africa and I know he’s looking forward to competing and Sam makes up a strong four.

“It would be terrific to carry on the good work of Charlotte and do well in the four events we’re playing in.”

The month tees off with a trip to a course on the southernmost tip of the Kruger National Park at Leopard Creek Country Club this week (3-6 February). Next comes Johannesburg for the South African Stroke Play Championship at Randpark Golf Club between 10-13 February then the South African Amateur Championship at Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club.

They finish 24-26 February with the Sanlam Cape Province Open at Kingswood Golf Estate near George.

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February 2020

HANSON BRAINCHILD Pro and his caddie have exciting £20,000 birdie vision for novel Yorkshire tour

Gender-equal pro tournament set to go Players competing in the newly formed equal gender 2020protour will have the chance to collect £20,000 by making 100 birdies over the 22 events that make up the schedule for this year.

Founded by Yorkshire Golfer columnist Chris Hanson and his caddie Adam Walker the 2020protour has teamed up with Malton based insurance specialists McClarrons Sport to launch the ‘Race to 100 Birdies’ which offers a season changing prize of £20,000.

Competitors will have to average approximately 4.54 birdies per round, but Rotherham’s Jonathan Thomson recently equalled the world record of 9 consecutive birdies and Richard Mansell averaged 4.6 birdies a round on the Europro Tour last year.

If only one player reaches the 100-birdie mark, they will go home with all of the £20,000, but the race is on for the whole season so it may be shared between a few of the 2020protour birdie machines.

Hanson said: “Having spoken with McClarrons Sport over the New Year, they were extremely supportive of the 2020protour’s vision to grow male and female golf through our equitable policy and showed no hesitation in wanting to partner with the 2020protour.

“We feel this is a fantastic incentive for players to aim for and we are delighted to be working with McClarrons Sport going forward, it would be amazing if at the Tour final there were a few players chas-

ing down the magic 100 birdie mark.”

McClarrons Sport will also be offering players the chance to back their own performances and that’s not just on the 2020protour but worldwide, giving players that extra incentive to perform and increase their own earning potential.

McClarrons’ Tom Landale said: “We’re very excited to have teamed up with 2020protour for this year’s season. The £20k race to 100 birdies is a great opportunity for players and we feel adds another element of

excitement to what is already set to be a great tour! We’re looking forward to watching the players chase down their share of £20k!”

Women competitors will play a course 11 per cent shorter than their male rivals, a figure that research has shown offers a level playing field, with all the entrance fees – bar the green fee costs – going into the prize fund.

Chris Hanson (front) and Walker are pictured at the launch of the 2020protour at Huddersfield Golf Club in December.

The schedule of events on the gender equal 20 20 Pro Tour has been released with the inaugural tournament to be played at Huddersfield Golf Club.

The tour will see men and women compete against each other on an equal footing in 22 events.

The 2020 portion of the club’s branding – the zeroes in the logo are made up of the male and female gender symbols – refers to 20:20 vision rather than the calendar year in which it was launched.

Yorkshire based golf tour operator The Golf Travel People will sponsor the tour and the Holmfirth company will provide a prize package for the winner and discount on future golf travel for all participants.

Yorkshire Golfer columnist Hanson said: “We have probably talked about it for five years on and off, that there is room to do one of these tours, especially in the North of England.

“It kind of spiralled from an evening in Madrid, talking about it and spending two hours of writing notes in a note book, to a week of writing notes, to a week later having 10 venues lined up and then to having 23 venues lined up.”

The tournaments are open to anybody with professional status and amateurs with a handicap of 2 or less, and membership is set at £119 and comes with a member’s benefits package, discounts on various brands, and a discounted entry fee of £99 per tournament (£49 for amateurs).

Players who want to compete can go onto the home page at www.2020protour.co.uk.

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February 2020

Good times keep rolling for Rotherham’s Ben Ben Schmidt’s golfing stock continues to soar following his latest win in Australia’s NSW Amateur championship.

He underlined his reputation as one of England’s finest prospects with a dominant display of golf in the 36-hole final at St Michael’s Golf Club in Sydney. The 17-year-old from Rotherham was never headed in the final against fellow England squad member Callum Farr, winning 7&5.

Schmidt shot to prominence last year when he became only the fourth golfer in history to win both the Brabazon and Carris Trophy in the same season. The Wath Academy golf scholar also made Open final qualifying, won the Sir Henry Cooper Junior Masters and spread-eagled a talented field by 15 shots to take the Justin Rose Telegraph Junior Golf Championship.

Rounds of 66 (at co-host The Coast) and 74, saw him qualify for the matchplay stages in 10th position and his biggest challenge came in the opening round where he needed two extra holes to overcome Callan Barrow at the 20th. He then dominated Mako Thompson winning 7&5, closed out Harrison Crowe 2up and proved too good for Jayden Ford

(3&1). Schmidt was 3up at the turn against Farr and had a fivehole advantage at lunch. When he went six ahead, with a par at the 5th in the afternoon round, it was clear he had one hand on the trophy.

Schmidt’s success made it a remarkable Down Under double for Yorkshire, coming hot on the heels of Charlotte Heath’s stunning win in the Australian Women’s Amateur Championship. Huddersfield’s Heath claimed the biggest win of her career with a 7&6 triumph over Indonesia’s Mela Putri at Royal Queensland. Her

victory helped create the feelgood factor among the seven England internationals who travelled to Australia for four top amateur events and Schmidt was happy to ride the crest of the wave.

“I have played really well all week and felt comfortable out on the course and was able to continue that feeling into the final. To be honest, I played pretty flawlessly and against a player of Callum’s standard that had to be the case.

“My main goal before I started today was to treat the 36-hole final as two separate

matches. It helped to narrow it down and focus on a shorter target. I was able to win the first hole of the day hitting two good shots into the green and from there I just grew in confidence.

“Over the last few weeks everyone in the England team has been able to find a bit of form and it’s great that I could follow up Charlotte’s win with this success.”

Schmidt was full of praise for Farr and admitted it was tricky taking on a pal.

“Callum’s a great mate and we get on really well. There were no hard feelings – we both knew we had to compete, and someone had to win. Callum’s had a great week too and it’s great for English golf.”

Schmidt was a very pleased young man after the win saying he stuck to his game plan all day. “Me and Sean, my caddy, had a great game plan and we stuck to it all week. I hit some great golf shots and didn’t make many mistakes, and the result shows what happened out there.

You’ve got to hit it in the right places out here.”

Schmidt said the NSW Amateur win should set his year up nicely. “I did all right last year,” he smiled. “It’s good to get my first win for this season under my belt.”

...and Schmidt could be the next ‘Tommy’ Nick Dougherty says Rotherham teenage Ben Schmidt could be the next Tommy Fleetwood.

Dougherty is busy with his TV work with Sky but he keeps tabs on the talent coming through thanks to conversations on tour with England Golf coach and Tommy Fleetwood’s short-game guru, Graham Walker, head professional at The Oaks.

“You hear of the kids and look at the big events and see a Ben Schmidt or a Conor Gough coming through,” added Dougherty. “At the same age as Ben, I won the salver at the Brabazon which I thought was special – it’s not as special as winning the main thing!

“These events are a real precursor to what they are about to achieve. You can only beat the best around you. You can’t compare a Ben Schmidt to a Tommy Fleetwood, but you can compare him to his peers. Maybe he will be the next one to challenge Tommy.

“It’s more competitive now and that’s a testament to the coaches at England Golf and other unions. It’s about creating the superstars of tomorrow as well as celebrating the amateur game.” He added: “If it was the same as we were doing 20 years ago then we have a problem. Not everything we did 20 years ago was wrong, but the game has changed, and the way information is used and transferred to the younger players is the right way. The England Golf coaches have the right balance and that is shown by the results.”

Dougherty was a three-tims European Tour winner who came through the ranks at England Golf. A three-times Faldo Series winner in his teens, he also helped England win the World Junior Championships in 1998 and 1999.

In 1999, Dougherty also won the individual title at the World Junior Championships in Japan while that same year his England team were crowned European champions.

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February 2020

RUNNING RIOT Remarkable run of nine birdies in Portugal for Rotherham pro Johnson

Jigger joins the record breakers Rotherham’s Jonathan ‘Jigger’ Thomson equalled a long-standing record for the most consecutive birdies when he reeled off nine in a row at the Palmares Open on the Portugal Pro Golf Tour.

His second round in the event started out like many other when he parred the first seven holes before he caught fire with a birdie on the 8th which stared the barrage. Eight more followed until he made a regulation par on the penultimate hole.

But he was back at it again with another birdie on the last making it and astonishing 10 in the last 11 holes for a round of 62.

He eventually finished the 54hole event in third place five shots behind winner Sam Locke, but it was Jigger’s world equalling performance that stole the headlines.

The world record for the most consecutive birdies has remained at nine for more than 25 years since Omar Uresti first achieved it at the 1994 Shreveport Open on the Nationwide Tour (Korn Ferry Tour).

Five years later, LPGA stalwart Beth Daniel added her name to the record list at the 1999 Phillips Invitational and since then only five more players have carded nine in a row prior to Thomson.

Mark Calcavecchia was the first to emulate the feat on the PGA Tour at the 2009 Canadian Open after Colin Montgomerie had equalled the record in the 2005 Indonesian Open on the European Tour.

Others are Amy Yang in 2015 on the LPGA Tour, Rayhan Thomas in the 2017 Dubai Creek Open on the Mena Tour, Bronte Law in the 2018 Ladies European Tour QSchool and James Nitties in the 2019 ISPS Handa Vic Open, again on the European Tour.

But more remarkable is Jigger’s golfing journey. At 6’9 “ he is the tallest man ever to hold playing rights on the European Tour after earning his card for 2018 , but his journey to that peak is the story of a remarkable fight for life that dates back to when he was aged seven and told he had lymphoblastic leukaemia.

Known as ‘Jigger’ for his restless energy as a nipper, he started chemotherapy at Sheffield Children’s Hospital, one of the first children on a super-intensive course called Regimen C. For the next five years he was in and out of Ward M3, his mother Sarah giving up work to care for him.

He soon earned a reputation as a

stubborn boy by refusing to have a blood transfusion no matter what his doctors advised. After fighting his way to a Tour card, he said: “It is so bad that nobody can understand what it is truly like unless you have gone through it. And I wouldn’t wish that on anyone. It defies description.

“The longest period I was in hospital was about three weeks. The chemo had attacked my internal lining so harshly that I had ulcers from my gut to my oesophagus.

I couldn’t eat or drink anything. I had a drip for everything. I wasn’t able to speak for about a week. It was the worst time. There were moments when I wanted to die. I was in that much agony, so ill.’

What kept his spirits up – and possibly even kept him alive – was golf. Most of the time he was too ill to go to school and instead spent time at Rotherham Golf Club, where his father was the steward and is now head of catering, watching and

Jigger and his remarkable score card

learning from the older children, including the future Masters champion Danny Willett. Thompson sat on a chair and thought to himself ‘that’s the life I want’.

When he was strong enough, he would hit a few balls, and then sit down again to gather his strength.

His talent and determination soon came to the fore: aged nine, he won an Under 11s tournament, getting dispensation to use a buggy. At 12, and finally off chemothera-

py, he was selected for Yorkshire Under 16s, then England Under 16s and for the seniors while still a teenager.

He turned pro in September 2016 and just four weeks later won the Glenfarclas Open on the PGA EuroPro Tour.

Despite his latest conquest he’s unlikely to lose perspective. “After beating leukaemia, no matter what goes on in the rest of my life, whether I make it as a golfer or not, I feel proud that I have accomplished something pretty huge.”

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7

February 2020

OPEN FOR BUSINESS Clutch putt lands Armitage 3rd spot in South African Open

Marcus heading for Sandwich MARCUS Armitage landed a career best 3rd place in the South African Open in early January to earn himself automatic entry into this year’s Open Championship at Royal St George.

Armitage had been in contention over the weekend only to see Branden Grace race clear on Sunday at the Randpark Club in Johannesburg. However the 32-year-old from Howley Hall walked up the 18th knowing that he’d have to sink a 20foot birdie putt to cement 3rd spot and land The Open invite.

It was also worth the little matter of £70,000 and when it dropped the reaction of Armitage was outdone only by that of his ecstatic bagman – a local caddie picked up for the week, by the name of Eric.

It meant he earned solo 3rd on -16, two shots behind South African Louis Oosthuizen and five behind winner and another ‘home’ golfer Grace on -21.

The result was affirmation – such as it was needed – of Armitage’s ability to compete at the highest levels, despite the travails he’s been through, especially in recent years. He got his Tour card in 2017 after years battling away on Europe’s minor tours, but then

Fist bump ... Marcus and his caddie Eric, on the fairways in Johannesburg faced the grind of the Challenge Tour again, having dislocated his shoulder in an indoor skydiving jaunt, 10 days before he was due to play in the 2018 Open.

He teed it up at Carnoustie anyway, playing with half a swing, but missed the cut despite hitting a 69 on the Friday.

But it was back to square

one for 2019, a lean year with only a total of €15,000 earnings which was saved only by coming through Tour Q School to land one of the precious places back in ‘the show’.

The South African Open result also got him into the following week’s Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship but he failed to make the weekend

He shot -3 on the Friday but a disastrous first day 77 meant he missed the cut by three strokes..

After the Johannesburg result he dedicated it to his girlfriend Lucy, a beautician in their home town of Shelley, outside Huddersfield.

“It’s hard for her,” he said.

“She’s working, we’ve got a house and we just don’t get

the quality time. This one’s for Lucy.

“I can tell Lucy that she doesn’t have to do any nails that week (Royal St George), she can book it off and we can go and enjoy The Open.”

Going into the last weekend in January, he had €90,700 in winnings from four events and was in 37th place on the tour list.

Meltham is England Golf showcase Meltham Golf Club’s success at implementing the ‘Get Into Golf’ campaign has been showcased by England Golf.

Since 2015 the club has attracted 275 people to the programme which has generated over £100,000 from memberships and lessons. In 2018/19 full members joining from the programme increased to 41.

Head professional Simon Race and his team, supported by England Golf’s club officers, identified that creating a relaxed atmosphere was crucial, plus focusing on the social side of the sport. Simon wanted to show people you don’t have to be a good golfer to join a club.

He also wanted to promote the health benefits to people. Making the game affordable was another challenge. They offered 12 sessions each week including early morning and evening along with weekend sessions.

The cost of the sessions is low with equipment provided which encourages people to try first and then take advantage of follow on offers. The club hosts a regular Friday Fours competition which attracts and average of 60 participants. Its Sunday Roll Up is run by New Member Ambassadors brings in over 90 golfers.

Providing an improver course saw 25% of those who tried it convert to the next step which is a three-month trial membership offered at £135.

Equipment sales in the pro shop have also increased, with one family spending over £6,000 in one year.

8

February 2020

Major amateur trophy goes co-ed Berkhamsted Golf Club’s ground-breaking decision over its iconic Berkhamsted Trophy could see the best of Yorkshire male and female golfers going head to head.

The decision to accept both sexes has the support of The R&A and England Golf and represents the first time that one of amateur golf’s long-established, prestige tournaments – the Berkhamsted Trophy is entering its 61st year – has transformed from being a menonly tournament, into one which invites both sexes to compete for the same prize.

The traditionally seasonopening Berkhamsted Trophy, a 72-hole event on Berkhamsted Golf Club’s bunker-free natural heathland golf course, goes truly ‘open’ this year.

Yorkshire players have a good record in the event and a strong Tyke contingent is expected to challenge once again. Fulford’s Charlie Thornton won in 2018 after overcoming Howley Hall’s Ben Hutchinson in a sudden death play-off, and Ben Firth from Leeds Golf Centre finished runner-up last year.

Past winners include Sandy Lyle, Peter McEvoy, Gary Wolstenholme, Luke Donald and Tom Lewis. All household names who had their hands on the silverware and went on to greater things.

Other champions include

Carl Mason, who has earned more money than anyone on the Seniors Tour, former Rookie of the Year Jim Payne, Hartlepool’s Graeme Storm, Andy Sullivan and Sky Sports presenter John Hawksworth.

Among those who have tried and failed are Sir Nick Faldo and Lee Westwood.

The 61st Berkhamsted Trophy will take place from Thursday 2nd April to Saturday 4th April 2020. Entries are now open to golfers with handicaps of 1 or better, with invitations being sent to a number of elite female players.

The club is working on a flexible teeing system with The R&A and England Golf which will ensure that both sexes compete on an equal footing.

The event will be eligible for World Amateur Golf Ranking points for both men and women.

Berkhamsted Golf Club Captain, Henry Tse said: “It is unsustainable, in the long term, for golf to continue to keep men and women apart like it has historically done.

“Berkhamsted has always been a progressive club, and we like to play golf as nature intended – as expressed by the lack of man-made hazards on our golf course. This decision is a natural evolution not only of that ethos, and but also of the way the modern world works.”

Tour pros help Rastall with Golfshake tips HOWLEY Hall professional Ryan Rastall got up close and personal with some of the top players in the world during the Omega Dubai Desert Classic at the Emirates Club in Dubai.

In his role as equipment expert for Golfshake Rastall travelled out to the Middle East to film new content for the website on how to drive the ball longer and straighter, getting the inner secrets from the likes of 2019 runner

up and four time European Tour winner Matt Wallace, the 2018 SA Open winner Chris Paisley and former Ryder Cup captain and fellow Liverpool FC supporter Thomas Bjorn.

Rastall said: “We had a great time filming some great tips with the players to help golfers improve shots from the tee with the driver.

“We were working in conjunction with Callaway Golf and the tips are on the

Golfshake website.

“I hope golfers find them useful and it was fantastic to hear the key swing thoughts and strategies with the driver from some of Europe’s best.

Rastall has also filmed a “Season Starter” tuition series to help players get ready for the upcoming season.

You can sign up for free on the Golfshake website and will then receive 16 video tips from Ryan focussing on

all aspects of the game.

The tips were filmed at the Amendoira Resort in the Algarve and those registering up before February 29 will be entered into a prize draw to win a trip to Amendoira for four people to include a two night bed and breakfast stay in a shared villa or apartment and three rounds of golf.

Ryan (main pic and inset) picks up some tips from Thomas Bjorn

February 2020

New man for Howley greens

Down under pro Jamie’s up north Kiwi Jamie Millar is the new head professional at Bentham Golf Club.

Jamie will be running all forms of coaching and providing members and guests with valuable advice and tips in the pro-shop. He was accepted into the 2016 PGA training programme and completed his education in 2018 as the 4th ranked trainee in New Zealand.

He moved to Australia and competed on the pro-am circuit before moving to the UK in May 2019 to focus on coaching, bringing his partner and three-year-old son with him.

Jamie said: “I’m excited to work with everybody to get the most out of their golfing experience. I have big plans for the coaching side of my work here at Bentham and cannot overstate how great it has been to have the support and local knowledge of people everyone at Bentham

Golf Club as I get to know the area. If you’re ever near the course, don’t hesitate to come and have a chat and ask plenty of questions, or even sneak out for a quick nine holes on our picturesque course – my personal favourite is the view from the 3rd tee; it’s stunning!”

Bentham Golf Club features a challenging family-run course set in an elevated position on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

It not only boasts views of the Three Peaks, but Lake District hills and the Forest of Bowland can be seen to the west.

The immaculately presented par 71 layout stretches over 6,033 yards and throws up plenty of challenges included seven ponds to negotiate.

Guests can also ‘stay and play’ in one of its Wenningdale Escapes lodges or glamping pods nestled amid the fairways.

Bairstow stars in Spain rain Hallowes’ Sam Bairstow played a key role as England’s men’s squad splashed their way to success at Costa Ballena with a dramatic and deserved 5-4 win against Ireland.

Despite rain-soaked conditions, the England squad were able to ward off the elements as well as a battling Irish side to claim victory in the Costa Ballena Octangular International Challenge for the sixth time in its19-year history.

Wins against Germany, Italy and Holland in the group stages teed up the final against a strong Irish team.

An England side comprising Warwickshire duo Sam Broadhurst and Max Martin, Gloucestershire’s Joe Harvey, Cheshire’s Jack Brooks, Yorkshire’s Sam Bairstow and Arron Edwards-Hill from Essex then finished the job in a dramatic finale

against the team from the Emerald Isle. A 2-1 win in the morning foursomes meant that a share of the spoils in the six afternoon singles would be good enough for an overall England win.

Broadhurst secured the first point before Brooks added a second – leaving the way for Edwards-Hill to spark wild scenes with the decisive win in fading light after monsoon weather hit the Spanish resort.

Team manager Paul Ashwell heaped praise on his squad for a remarkable week’s golf. “I couldn’t be prouder of the lads,” said Ashwell. I’m actually quite emotional thinking about how much the team has fought for this moment all week.

“To win all four of our games is remarkable and the guts the team showed in quite brutal weather con-

ditions against Ireland sums these boys up.”

Before the worst of the rains, a solid foundation for the win was laid in the Friday foursomes. EdwardsHill and Harvey notched a point while Bairstow and Martin ensured that England held a narrow lunchtime lead. But as the storm clouds gathered and the greens and fairways flooded, Ireland battled back, and the match hung in the balance, but the home boys hung on.

England started the week in fine fashion with a 5-4 win against Germany. Harvey and Edwards-Hill secured a point in the morning foursomes as did Martin and Bairstow.

The afternoon singles were halved 33 to give England the overall victory.

Brooks and Edwards-Hill both picked up vital half points while

Broadhurst and Bairstow wins got England over the line.

A repeat of the 5-4 winning margin against Italy on day two put the squad in a strong position.

The combinations of Harvey and Edwards-Hill and Martin and Bairstow once again came up trumps in the morning foursomes to give England a 2-1 lunchtime lead.

Afternoon singles wins for Broadhurst, Edwards-Hill and Bairstow edged England over the line and heading into day three against the Netherlands in fine spirits. Heavy overnight rain meant that Thursday’s play was reduced to six singles matches, won by 3.5-2.5.

Bairstow again chipped in with a full point. England’s victory follows on from wins in this event in 2001, 2005, 2006, 2014 and 2016.

9

Howley Hall has made a high-profile appointment in new head greenkeeper Kevin O’Neill.

Kevin joins the home of the Yorkshire Open from Muswell Hill in North London where he was course manager, and brings over 20 years of experience of working in the turf industry. In 2014 he was named Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year and a year later won a City & Guilds award for excellence.

The Rochdale-born greenkeeper began his greenkeeping career at Gleneagles before spells as a groundsman at Charlton Athletic and head groundsman and commercial manager at Barnet football club.

He joined Muswell Hill in 2008 and returned to Gleneagles in 2014 as part of the greenkeeping team for the Ryder Cup. He is also currently the secretary of British & International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association London section.

Miles Foster, chairman of greens at Howley Hall said: “After an extensive search and interview process which involved 18 candidates I’m pleased to announce the appointment of Kevin O’Neill who will further strengthen our team and the ambitions for the golf course in 2020 and beyond.”

10

February 2020

Yorkshire Golfer publisher DANNY LOCKWOOD visited the splendid Oakdale Golf Club in the spa town of Harrogate

I

DOUBT Oakdale Golf Club has any original members still living, although sitting on the clubhouse’s eyrielike west-facing balcony on a fine summer evening is as good an excuse as any to hang on in there.

If they had, they would have witnessed lots of change as the county’s renowned spa town of Harrogate grew in both size and reputation, a magnet not just for tourists from home and abroad, but for professionals for whom Elevated tees Harrogate is a perfect dormitory on the 1st town for Leeds, Bradford and York. and 10th I can’t think of another holes, with Yorkshire golf club as close to the Oak Beck heart of such a vibrant and meandering renowned town centre as Oakdale in front is; indeed Harrogate has very much of you grown up around it, since the legendary golf course architect Dr Alister MacKenzie was invited along in 1914.

The good doctor provided a layout for a 9-hole course for immediate play while continuing to develop the 18-hole course. Oakdale was opened on 1st August that same year while Dr MacKenzie went on to cement his burgeoning reputation as the pre-eminent designer around the world.

There have been modifications to his vision over the years as the town has expanded, but the essence of his original MacKenzie principles has been preserved, certainly in many of the greens.

A hole does not have to be long in order to be an excellent challenge of golf.

Nestled in a valley which is defined Oakdale considers itself a modern

by Oak Beck as it runs north to join and relaxed club, while holding true to the River Nidd, the hazard makes the the values of heritage and long-held perfect framework for both the starts traditions. and endings to two distinct 9-hole

A beautiful course for a beautiful town loops. With elevated tee shots from both the 1st and 10th holes, and approaches over the beck to the 9th and 18th, it is as handsome a setting as you could wish for.

Set in 130 acres, we’re still a good few miles from the Yorkshire Dales, but still there are moorland elements to a largely parkland course and distinct character to virtually every hole.

More than a Sculpted bunkers are an attractive feature of the Oakdale layout

few shots have to take consideration of the prevailing north-to-south valley slope, and while many of the fairways are wide and handsome, trouble is never too far away.

Off the competition tees Oakdale stretches its legs to a testing 6,477 yards and a par of 71, but it benefits from a compact design with minimal distances between greens and tees.

One feature that visitors will note quickly is the propensity for well sculpted bunkers – some of them very sizeable – which are very easy on the eye, if not necessarily easy on your sand wedge.

The clubhouse boasts all the facilities you’d expect from bar and snack

The elevated sun louge offers panoramic views across the course

bar to a full restaurant and Oakdale markets itself for special events like weddings and family celebrations, while the outside sun lounge with balcony gives a magical panoramic view of the course and surrounding countryside.

It is particularly perfect for watching golfers closing their round down the short but unforgiving 18th, which none other than the great Peter Alliss described as one of the finest finishing holes in Britain. High praise indeed.

PGA head professional Rob Stansfield is a member of the TGI buying group and has a Foresight swing studio which opens directly onto the pro shop.

Rob gained his full PGA membership status in 2010. Since that time he has worked at Bradley Park Golf Course in Huddersfield. He then moved to nearby Rudding Park, Harrogate for three years as a full time golf instructor before being appointed as Head Professional at Catterick Golf Club, North Yorkshire.

Febuary 2020

11 LOOKING GOOD: Eight-year-old Archie Fountain is a ‘veteran’ at Oakdale – he’s been golfing since he was just two! We caught him hard at work in the Swing Studio

The 18th was described by guru Peter Alliss as one of the finest closing holes

your shoulders on, with the lefthand fairway bunkers easier to escape from than the one on the right. The hole bends to the right and downhill into an inviting target – a trademark MacKenzie two-tiered green, with mounds and run-offs.

Oakdale GC Yellow tees 1- 321yds, par 4 What a fabulous opener, from an eagle’s nest of an elevated tee in front of the clubhouse, to a wide and handsome fairway, with a trademark sculpted bunker high up the right side. The hole rises to a large, kidney-shaped back-tofront sloping green, well protected by traps either side.

2- 476yds, par 5 Not a long par 5, but if into the prevailing wind it feels longer. The fairway slopes distinctly from the right, with a bunker short right and another sitting below the big, oval green on the left, with run-offs left side too.

6- 172yds, par 3 A ditch down the left shouldn’t feature, and the green is set back in the trees.

Protection is short right and front right bunkers, plus one mid-left, on a green which interestingly slopes from left to right.

3- 178yds, par 3 A medium length par 3, slightly rising to another big oval green which slopes back right to front left, with traps front left and right and leftsided run-offs.

4- 393yds, par 4 Just don’t pull your drive left into the thick, spiked bushes. You’ve sand either side of the elbow on this right-to-lefter before going into a green nestled in the corner of the course with big traps catching anything short.

Holding the green won’t be easy at the height of summer.

Stroke index 2 for a reason.

5- 545yds, par 5 A generous fairway to open

7- 374yds, par 4 Big hitters will reach this in summer because it’s all downhill – but the big challenge is the pair of guardian bunkers with only five paces between them, short of a green that slopes to the back. An intriguing test of risk or reward golf if you’re long enough.

8- 371yds, par 4 Another medium length par 4, with no obvious danger from the tee. Again, all the fun is on

your approach, because there are a host of these big, sculpted bunkers around a narrowentranced green with some tricky undulations.

12- 173yds, par 3 A pretty downhill par 3, with a water hazard guarding the front right half and sand protecting the left.

16- 134yds, par 3 A slightly elevated tee to a green protected by steeper faced bunkers and left and rear runoffs.

9- 138yds, par 3 A gorgeous feature short hole, back to the clubhouse from an elevated tee nestled in an avenue of trees, across Oak Beck to a back-to-front sloping green with sand front right.

13- 350yds, par 4 Similar to the 11th, a rising tee shot curving to the left.

Thick conifers define the hole’s shape all the way down the left.

A tiered green with a distinct middle ridge, featuring sand on the right and run-offs left and rear.

17- 483yds, par 5 A daunting driving hole, quite narrow and tree lined, with out of bounds featuring farther down the left. The hole bends left for about the last 120 yards and the green is sat back, with the boundary wall to the left and a characteristic, big and sculpted Oakdale green on the right.

10- 373yds, par 4 From another elevated tee, a dogleg right to left with the beck a danger all the way down your left, so stay right side and watch the left and rear run-offs on the green.

11- 470yds, par 5 A tricky blind tee shot, over a rise and bending left – don’t duck hook your tee shot into the pond.

Get up onto the fairway then everything’s straight in front of you although the fairway slopes from the right. The traps are short right, then above right, with two sitting below the undulating green on the left.

OAKDALE GOLF CLUB OAKDALE GLEN, HARROGATE, NORTH YORKSHIRE, HG1 2LN Tel: 01423 567162 Hole 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

White 329 476 193 426 577 208 386 392 153 391 480 197 369 458 400 153 527 336

Yellow 321 476 178 393 545 172 374 371 138 373 470 173 350 429 372 134 483 313

OUT 3140 36 IN 3093 35 6451yards Par 71 SSS

Par 4 5 3 4 5 3 4 4 3 4 5 3 4 4 4 3 5 4

SI 14 6 12 2 4 16 10 8 18 3 9 15 13 1 5 17 7 11 2968 36 3097 35 6065 yards Par 71 SSS

Red 299 415 161 348 530 161 367 306 121 359 413 138 331 414 351 137 400 271

Par 5 3 3 4 5 3 4 4 3 4 5 3 4 5 4 3 5 4

SI 10 5 15 4 1 14 8 13 16 2 6 17 3 12 7 18 9 11

2708 35 2814 37 5522 yards Par 72 SSS

Run-offs are a feature of many of Oakdale’s excellent greens Watch out for the thick bushes on the 4th and 18th

14- 429yds, par 4 Index 1 isn’t too intimidating off the tee, but your 2nd shot will test your long game.

The thick spiky bushes that framed the 4th are now on your left, with more thick thorn bushes on the right. No bunkers here, but the ground is higher on the left and runs away right.

15- 372yds, par 4 A tree-lined dogleg right to left with some distinctive grassy humps on the elbow. An interesting green has a variety of slopes, with sunken bunkers on the right side.

18- 313yds, par 4 A classic finishing hole, a short par 4 but a potential cardwrecker. The green and clubhouse are straight ahead, but there’s the boundary wall and trees tight down the left.

Leave the big stick in the bag and try not to overcompensate and leak into the trees right.

A good summer audience will watch you test your short game with an approach over Oak Beck to a large lateral green with a rear banking to save anything overhit.

12

February 2020

CAPTAIN NAMED Crosland Heath junior is 2020 Boys leader

Oliver’s county honour Crosland Heath’s Oliver Caton has accepted an invitation from the Yorkshire Union of Golf Clubs to be Boys Captain in 2020.

Oliver (pictured near right) won the Yorkshire Boys title in 2019 and was also North of England Schools champion in the same category last year, picking up the title at Denton Golf Club, near Manchester.

YUGC secretary Jonathan Plaxton said: “A strong player with huge talent and great composure, Oliver is set to lead the Boys ‘line’ for Yorkshire in 2020.”

Plaxton also explained how the Union had discussed the same opportunity with Ben Schmidt and his family, as Ben is technically still a boy golfer as he’s under the age of 18.

“It was felt that Ben’s world ranking will open many doors and his playing schedule is going to involve much travel outside Yorkshire .

“We therefore discussed the position with the Schmidt family and it was agreed that Ben will make himself available whenever possible but that he should not be considered when it came to selection for the 2020 Boys Captain,” added Plaxton.

Meanwhile last year’s Yorkshire Boys captain Jack Maxey (pictured far right) will join the golf team at Keiser

University in West Palm Beach, Florida, this September.

A member of the 2019 England Golf Boys regional squad, Maxey finished third in last year’s Yorkshire Amateur Championship.

In 2018 the Hornsea mem-

ber won the South of England Boys Championship and successfully defended both the East Riding Union Boys matchplay and strokeplay titles.

Known as The Seahawks the Keiser University College of Golf campus consists of a

20,000-square-foot facility and includes 4,000 square feet dedicated to indoor golf training.

Students at the university play on the PGA Golf Club’s three golf courses and have access to the Learning Centre at the club.

Westy’s win sets up tilt at Ryder Cup Lindrick member Lee Westwood has set his sights on a record equalling 11th Ryder Cup appearance after securing his 25th European Tour win with victory at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship.

Westwood, 46, who had a one-shot overnight lead, became only the third player to win European Tour events in four different decades, starting in the 1990s. His 5under par final-round 67 gave him a two-shot margin over a chasing pack which included fellow Lindrick member Matthew Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick, who grew up at Hallamshire and is still a regular face when not competing around the world, was two shots off Westwood before the start of the day. He got off to a strong start and an impressive front nine saw him pile on the pressure, but the former world No.1 kept his cool and continued to putt well to secure his victory.

“It’s been a good week,” Westwood told europeantour.com. “I wasn’t really paying any attention to what other people were doing.

“I was trying to control me, control my emotions and control what I’m working on in the golf swing. I just man-

aged to do that.

“A little slip-up at 16. With what I’m working on, if I don’t quite do it, I hit a pull, and I hit a pull second shot and pulled the putt actually, as well, but I hit some good shots coming in, and really just pleased with the way I controlled myself.”

Westwood was a European vice-captain during the victory in France in 2018 and is one behind Sir Nick Faldo’s record of 11 Ryder Cup appearances for Europe.

Ranked 63rd in the world before the event he revealed he would not be changing his plans to try and secure a Ryder Cup spot.

“Now I have given myself a chance to play but I’m not going to increase my schedule or anything like that. I’m just going to play week in, week out and see where that takes me.

“I wouldn’t want a pick but if I qualified, I would definitely play.

“I’ll be trying my hardest, there’s no doubt about that.”

Fitzpatrick, who was the youngest ever member of a Ryder Cup team when he made his debut at Hazeltine in 2016, said he was pleased to start the year with a strong performance.

Scarthingwell

One of Yorkshire's Friendliest Golfing Scarthingwell Golf Club, Venues Tadcaster LS24 9PF

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Alongside his role at Scarthingwell, Tony works alongside many countries implementing coaching and development programmes across the world including Europe, Africa and Asia.

Your Game Improvement Day will consist of:

* Three coaching sessions with Tony Howarth * Lunch at Scarthingwell Spikes Bar *9-holes on the course On completion of the day, you will receive a full personalised analysis of your game with drills to improve your game.

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CHIPPING, PITCHING & BUNKER SESSION ... this session will see you working outdoors on the short game area to improve the scoring section of your game. Tony is renowned as one of the leading short game coaches and will work with you on all aspects of chipping, pitching and bunker play.

PUTTING SESSION Taking place on both the putting green and the indoor studio, the putting session will help improve all aspects of your putting from the technique of your stroke to feel and distance control on the green.

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13

February 2020

CYPRUS BOUND Farewell Whitby as Iain sets sail for Aphrodite Hills

Pyman starts new journey Former European Tour player Iain Pyman is heading for warmer climes and a new role as he steps up his bid to return to full time professional golf.

He and his wife Jane left their home in Whitby at the end of January and headed for the Mediterranean island of Cyprus.

Pyman will take up the role of golf ambassador for Aphrodite Hills Resort in Paphos which boasts an 18-hole championship course designed by Cabell Robinson.

He will represent and promote the resort as he plays and travels around Europe and beyond. Opened in 2002 Aphrodite Hill was the first golf and leisure development of its kind in Cyprus and was crowned European Golf Resort of the Year at the 2018 International Association of Tour Operators Awards.

Pyman said: “We love Whitby but it’s just not the right place for me to be able to fully focus on getting my game and myself back in shape and starting to compete again on a regular basis. I need to be in an environment where I can give it 100% and I couldn’t have wished for a better place than Aphrodite Hills to start that journey.”

His long-term goal is to make it to the Staysure European Senior Tour when he turns 50 in March 2023. In the meantime, he’s also hoping that his record on the Challenge Tour – where he has won more titles than any other player – might lead to a few invitations. He won a record

eight events between 1999 and 2008. He’s also planning on entering some of the MENA Tour events in the early months of 2020 and will return to play in a variety of minitour events included the newly created 2020protour.

“The new 2020 tour is definitely on my radar and I’m sure it will do well. It will be nice to get back playing around Yorkshire again,” added Pyman who achieved all his success as an amateur out of the Sand Moor club in Leeds.

This time last year he was working in the hospitality industry in his native Whitby but his love affair with golf was rekindled after watching the Open Championship on TV from Royal Portrush last July.

He had only played twice in the two and a half years prior to Royal Portrush, the scene for his win in the 1993 Amateur Championship.

The biggest win of his career earned him a place in the Open at Royal St George’s a few weeks later, where he won the Silver Medal as the low amateur, and an invite to the 1994 Masters.

His professional career went on to span 16 years during which time he played over 300 European Tour events and amassed well over £1m in prize

money but as time went on, he wasn’t enjoying things.

“Towards the end of my career I really didn’t want to be out there and when you are struggling it can be soul destroying. I really fell out of love with the game. But I’m really enjoying playing again and watching the Open over a course where I won also made me realise how much I have missed that winning feeling.”

His priority, however, is to get a new set of golf clubs. “Mine are 15 years old and it is amazing how much equipment has improved during that space of time.”

Adrian hopes to Trump fellow TGI pros Low Laithes head professional Adrian Ambler has been nominated for a national award with golf retail buying group TGI. Ambler is one of four retailers shortlisted by the group for the ‘Pro Shop of the Year’ and the winner will be announced when TGI holds its annual conference at Trump Turnberry on February 5th.

He will be hoping to keep the prestigious title in West Yorkshire and follow in the footsteps of Howley Hall’s Ryan Rastall who scooped the award last year.

Wakefield born Ambler turned professional in 1989 and joined Roger Holland at the City of Wakefield Golf Club. He made his name as a player on the PGA North Region circuit and as a teacher and is a past winner of the De Vere PGA North Region Championship and the PGA North Order of Merit.

He was one of Yorkshire’s most dominant golfers, winning the Yorkshire Open and Matchplay titles five times and partnered current PGA in Yorkshire secretary Aran Wainwright to victory in the 2013 PGA National Fourball Championship at Forest Pines.

Named PGA North Region captain in 2013 Ambler was appointed head professional at Low Laithes in 2015, succeeding the long serving Paul Browning. He will take the trip to Turnberry with his assistant Henry Morris.

Of his nomination Ambler said: “At the start of last year I sat down with my TGI retail consultant Chris Taylor and told him I wanted everything in my shop to be tip top, from the small things like having size cubes on the clothing to making sure I had all the marketing tools, so members were kept up to date with all the latest technology and products. We set out a plan and executed against it and that’s what got us the nomination.”

14

Fixby pro James is ‘living the dream’ Huddersfield golf professional James Robinson’s burgeoning following on You Tube has led to him signing an agreement with golf software supplier Golfcatcher.

Robinson produces daily content for his YouTube channel which has more than 85,000 followers and his uploads have been watched over 10 million times.

His content ranges from equipment reviews to teaching tips – but the most poplar reviews are where he goes behind the scenes at professional golf tournaments.

Golfcatcher recently became the title sponsor for the PGA EuroPro Tour and Robinson will be in regular attendance at the events to get the inside track on one of Europe’s leading developmental tours. It has served as a breeding ground for players like Yorkshire Golfer columnist Chris Hanson and Howley Hall’s Marcus Armitage, who graduated to the European Tour.

His agreement with Golfcatcher includes him hosting a team in the Pro-Am at the PGA EuroPro Tour

February 2020

Bridfest still attracting fans from across the country Bridlington Golf Club

A still from one of James’s Youtube channel videos

Grand Final at BlackSeaRama resort in Bulgaria at the end of September, and he’s excited about the new relationship.

Robinson said: “We are trying to grow the game by producing content from the PGA EuroPro Tour which is a perfect showcase to let people know everything that is good about golf. In terms of content I try to be as diverse as possible but stay within the realms of golf. “ He started his professional career as assistant to Ian Kirk at Tankersley Park and his love of teaching led to a move to join Alex Keighley at

Huddersfield. But he admits he is now “living the dream” as he travels the world searching for his next post. Last year he clocked up over 100,000 air miles and posted 252 videos on his YouTube channel including clips from The Masters at Augusta.

He will be heading to Georgia again in April where he’s planning to give his viewers an exclusive look inside the workings of the pro shop which rakes in $50m from Monday to Sunday of tournament week.

He’s constantly reviewing new products and hopes a

recent sponsorship deal with Adidas will give him greater access to their contracted players.

It’s a hectic schedule and after competing in the pro-am at the Dubai Desert Classic he headed to California for a series of interviews with master wedge designer Bob Vokey aimed at helping golfers improve their short games.

“I really get a buzz out of what I’m doing. Delivering consistently good content every day is a challenge, but I honestly can’t wait for what tomorrow may bring.”

Places are still available for the ever-popular Bridlington Golf Festival which will be played over three courses in May. Over 1,000 golfers from all over the UK will descend upon the seaside resort to compete in 13 different events over Bridlington Golf Club, Flamborough Head and Bridlington Links from Monday May 4 to Saturday May 9.

The Festival has grown to become one of the most popular golfing jamborees in the country and organiser Anthony Howarth has been delighted with the response thus far.

He said: “This will be the 27th Bridlington Golf Festival and each year we are staggered at the

huge response from competitors.

“We still have spaces available in many of the events which include gents, ladies and mixed formats.

“All we can hope now is that the weather is kind to us and everyone taking part has an enjoyable week.”

During the week there will be two prize presentations. The first will take place on the Wednesday evening at The Bridlington Links Golf Club and Bridlington Golf Club will host the closing prize presentation on the Saturday night. If you are interested in playing in this event please contact Anthony Howarth on 01262 606367 (option 3) or e-mail

enquiries@bridlingtongolfclub.co.uk.

Got a story for Yorkshire Golfer? Send news and photos to mike@yorkshire-golfer.com @yorkshiregolfer

15

February 2020

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Deepdale Avenue, Scarborough t: 01723 360522 www.southcliffgolfclub.com

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16

February 2020

Kirkbymoorside Golf Club Open Days 2020 Spring Tri Am Open Day run by The Rabbits Section Wednesday 20th May 2020 £39.00 per team of 3 Handicap limit 12-28, 90% allowance.

Open Mixed 4BB Saturday 23rd May 2020 £30.00 per couple Handicap limits Gentlemen: 28 Ladies: 36, 90% allowance Seniors Open Day Thursday 4th June2020 £28.00 per couple (includes 2’s club) Handicap limit 28 (proof of handicap required) 90% allowance Men’s Open Am Am Saturday 11th July 2020 £80.00 per team Handicap limit 28, 90% allowance

Extra fixture as Schools golf sees numbers rise A growth in schools golf has led to an additional regional event being added to the Yorkshire Schools’ Golf Association calendar for 2020.

There will now be four regional events reflecting the increase in entries from 137 in 2018 to 214 last year. Yorkshire continues to enjoy success in this sphere with Doncaster’s Josh Berry (pictured) winning the national title last year.

Superb back to back rounds of 68 at Sherwood Forest saw 14-year-old Berry lift the boys’ title in the English Schools’ National Championships.

He handled the tough par 70 layout which stretches 6,800 yards with an exceptional display of shot-making to win by five shots. The Campsmount Academy student went on to captain England Schools in fixtures against Scotland and Wales, fixtures which also saw boys and girls from Yorkshire earn international caps.

Wednesday 29th July 2020 £52.00 per team of 4 (includes 2’s club)

WEST YORKSHIRE SCHOOLS’ CHAMPIONSHIP Howley Hall Golf Club Thursday 26th March

Handicap limit 36, 90% allowance

NORTH & EAST YORKSHIRE SCHOOLS’ CHAMPIONSHIP Ripon City Golf Club

Seniors Open Day

Friday 27th March

Thursday 30th July 2020 £28.00 per couple (includes 2’s club) Handicap limit 28 (proof of handicap required) 90% allowance

Hickleton Golf Club Monday 20th April

YORKSHIRE SCHOOLS’ TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL Low Laithes Golf Club Friday 29th May

NASUWT sponsored NORTH OF ENGLAND SCHOOLS’ CHAMPIONSHIPS Sleaford Golf Club Monday 22nd June

NASUWT sponsored ENGLISH SCHOOLS’ NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Gog Magog, Cambridgeshire Wednesday 8th July

NASUWT sponsored NATIONAL SCHOOLS’ TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS Woodhall Spa Golf Club, Lincolnshire Monday 20th July

YSGA 2020 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Monday 23rd March

Ladies Open Day

Thursday 26th March

SOUTH YORKSHIRE SCHOOLS’ GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP

EAST & NORTH YORKSHIRE SCHOOLS’ CHAMPIONSHIP Malton & Norton Golf Club

NASUWT sponsored ENGLISH SCHOOLS’ U16 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Northants County Monday 31st August

NASUWT sponsored SCHOOLS’ INTERNATIONAL: ENGLAND v WALES Rolls of Monmouth, Wales Monday 14th September

NASUWT sponsored SCHOOLS’ INTERNATIONAL: SCOTLAND v ENGLAND Cumbria – TBC / TBA

Open Mixed 4BB Saturday 29th August 2020 £30.00 per couple Handicap limits Gentlemen: 28 Ladies: 36, 90%allowance Ladies Tri Am Open Day Wednesday 9th September 2020 £39.00 per team of 3 (includes 2’s club) Handicap limit 36, 90% allowance Open Day AM-AM run by The Rabbits Section Wednesday 16th September 2020 £40.00 per team of 4 Handicap limit 12-28, 90% allowance

When Booking online please include your CDH number CONTACT DETAILS: TO BOOK ONLINE: www.kirkbymoorsidegolf.co.uk TO BOOK BY POST Manor Vale, Kirkbymoorside, North Yorkshire, YO62 6EG 01751 431525 TO BOOK BY EMAIL: proshop@kirkbymoorsidegolf.co.uk

Golf Breaks at Foxton Hall One of Alnmouth Golf Club’s unique features is its in-house accommodation. The Dormy House occupies the first floor of the clubhouse with room for up to 26 guests, whether that be all golfers or golfers and their partners. In fact there is precious little Dormy House accommodation left in England and with prices starting from only £95 per person per night including DBB and 2 rounds of golf, Alnmouth Golf Club are proud to uphold this uniquely British tradition.

Two nights stay available with 3 rounds of golf at a selection of Northumberland courses from £250 p.p. including dinner bed and breakfast.

BOOK YOUR 2020 GOLF BREAK NOW! NOW TAKING BOOKINGS

February 2020

CHRIS HANSON

17

THE EUROPEAN TOUR BLOG

I

’ve been bit AWOL over the last few months on both my blog and social media, and even in person, but I’d actually drafted a blog way back in November to share with you.

I’m now rather thankful I didn’t post it as it really was a bit raw and I think I would have regretted it.

I’m not going to lie, I felt a bit lost, I didn’t know what I wanted but all I did know was I needed a break to find out.

It had been a tough year on the course, there is no hiding that, and I’ve never been one to hide my emotions either, but this time I just curled under a rock and sat it out.

I needed some free time from golf,

be with my family, and on the rare occasion when I did play golf it was just for fun.

All sorts of rumours were flying around about what I was up to…but I guess I should be used to that by now.

One thing that did happen was me and Adam Walker set up a mini Tour in the North of England and the launch got great media coverage including on BBC Look North and on social media.

We have put together a 22-event schedule throughout Yorkshire and the North of England to start on 24 February at Huddersfield Golf Club.

It’s sure going to be fun watching that unfold, male and female golfers

competing for the same prize money throughout the whole year.

Please do check out www.2020protour.co.uk if you would like to find out more or get involved in any way.

So, here’s my quick reflection on 2019: I didn’t play well, and I really didn’t enjoy being on the road.

And taking a back seat for two months sure made me ask myself some serious questions, and also made me answer plenty of questions from those closest to me. At times I didn’t have the answers.

Did I want it? What are you going to do?

The biggest response I got was “you’re too good not to play”.

Otley pair do club proud in Euro juniors Otley’s junior development programme is starting to bear fruit after two youngsters from the West Yorkshire club qualified for the finals of the Junior European Open.

Alex Harm, who was junior captain in 2017, and Alex Calder, both made the cut at the Alcaidesa Link Resort in Cadiz, southern Spain where they were well supported by a number of Otley members who made the trip to see them in action.

One of them was Alex

Harm’s father and Otley’s 2018 captain Andy Harm who is one of the organisers of the event which was covered in a television highlights package on Sky Sports.

Both agreed that the whole competition had provided them with a great experience, and they played some super golf throughout the week, representing themselves and Otley with distinction.

And there was another impressive performance from

Doncaster’s rising star Josh Berry who finished fifth in the under 18s event just three shots behind the eventual winner Joe Buenfeld.

The Junior European Open was first staged in 1993 and is widely regarded as the toughest test in junior golf. It is also the most accessible and keenly contested junior golf tournament in Europe.

The tournament has an enviable pedigree but is a truly open event in that as long as competi-

tors meet the age eligibility, they can participate regardless of golf ability.

Finalists include players of the international calibre of Luke Donald, Justin Rose, Sergio Garcia, Georgia Hall and Nick Dougherty who was on hand to present the prizes.

The 2020 version of the Junior European Open is now open to enter with details available at: www.golforganiser.com Photo – Otley’s Alex Harm

And I agree, but that didn’t matter if I didn’t want it, but I do!

I’m a golfer, I’m a very good professional golfer, I’ve played the highest level in Europe for three consecutive seasons, played a major championship, had chances to win European Tour events and competed with and beaten some of the best in the world.

But what gets you wanting to stand back out there in the cold through the winter, make those changes and be patient until the start of the season?

Simple answer…there is unfinished business. I have my goals, and I have my ambitions, so let’s get stuck in and see where we are at the end of the year!

18

February 2020

Mixed East Yorks week already proving a hit The inaugural East Yorkshire Mixed Golf Week has already caught the imagination of golfing couples with only a few places still available for the event which will be played over four courses in May. Supported by East Riding of Yorkshire Council, it is open to mixed couples and will take place at four local courses – Brough, Cottingham Parks, Hessle and Kirk Ella – between Monday May 18 and Friday May 22.

There will be four rounds of mixed betterball golf, using the stableford system, and the cost to compete is £170 per person which includes a round of golf at each course followed by a meal each day and prizes for daily winners plus overall winners on the week.

Councillor Shaun Horton, portfolio holder for tourism, culture and leisure at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “We are pleased to help welcome this exciting golfing

event to the region in May. “Spread around four courses, it will be a wonderful boost to the local economy, and it will put local golf on the map, with the hope that East Yorkshire courses are seen, internationally, as a great setting for the sport.”

Organiser Andy Woodhead, a past President of the East Riding Union, added: “The response has been tremendous and has attracted a lot of golfers from outside of the East Riding which is exactly why we created the event. There are a few spaces left so anybody interested should get in touch as soon as possible.: Entry forms are available from adwoodhead1964@outlook.com and specific information about the week is available from any of the four courses and by following East Yorkshire Mixed Golf Week on Facebook and @eygolfweek on Twitter.

Dyson speaking at Brough Brough Golf Club is hosting an evening with former European Tour player Simon Dyson.

The Q&A style event is open to members and their guests and will tee off at 7.30pm on Friday February 28.

Tickets cost £40 per person which includes a 3-course meal and support from comedian Les Gibson who made it through to the finals of Britain’s Got Talent.

Early last year York born Dyson retired from professional golf after a 20-year career to concentrate on an elite coaching academy he set up in Cheshire. Dyson won six times on

the European Tour earning not far short of £10m in prize money and was ranked 26th in the world so the evening should provide an insightful look at life as a professional golfer.

Got a story?

Send your club’s news & photos to mike@yorkshire-golfer.com

@yorkshiregolfer

ADVERTORIAL Great offer for Yorkshire Golfer readers

The ‘Angel of the North’ The fabulous 18th green in front of the traditional but modernstyled clubhouse

Northumberland Golf Club is not one of those forgettable courses where you struggle to distinguish one hole from another. It stays long in the memory of those who take in its unique charms.

The layout is typical of H.S. Colt who collaborated on the layout with one of golf’s other great architects of the time James Braid, where skill and tactics outweigh brawn and power.

Firm and fast greens and well-placed bunkers are the hallmarks of this heathland classic, features which prompted the R&A to make it a regional Open Championship qualifying course back in 2013.

Despite being known as ‘The Park’ the course has a linksy feel to it especially around the greens which have putting surfaces worthy of special mention, always true and with a lovely pace.

The majority of holes are played

within the Newcastle Racecourse with both the first and last holes played over a valley from high tees, down to their fairways below, and then back up to the greens.

Holes two to 17 are played on flatter, more heathland-like terrain with firm and tight fairways that make playing from them a joy.

There is a beautiful open expansive feel to these holes yet each one retains its individuality. The fairways are generous but protected by juicy enough rough, but there’s not a weak hole on the course.

Naturally some of the holes border the track but it never really interferes with play and is more of a distinctive feature rather than a distraction.

The only exceptions to this are at the par five third hole and par four 13th where you must drive over the running rails which obscure what would other-

wise be superb views down the holes, the third in particular with strategic bunkers to contend with all the way down its 497 yards.

Northumberland is a real Angel of the North when it comes to golf in this region and its close proximity to the A1 make it an ideal stopping off point for golfers travelling to and from Scotland.

The traditional clubhouse has a modern feel and offers the same level of excellence and there’s a choice of hotels within a few hundred yards.

And Yorkshire Golfer readers can take advantage of a special offer which runs throughout the year where a fourball can play for £40 each and included in the package is coffee, a bacon sandwich and a basket of range balls.

The offer is available on weekdays and Sundays (subject to availability) and this promotion must be booked in advance.

High Gosforth Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 5HT | 0191 236 2498 | E:admin@thengc.co.uk | W: www.thengc.co.uk

Two minutes from the A1, ideal for a game in the area or a stop off travelling North or South The Harry Colt and James Braid designed heathland course was established in 1898 to provide a challenging test of golf. Renowned for its firm, fast greens and strategic bunkering, the Club has hosted many major championships over the years recently including Open Championship Regional Qualifying.

From the simple looking but often tricky first hole uniquely the course plays both inside and outside Newcastle Racecourse.

The undulating greens combined with closely mown run off areas provide a stern test of the short game and though the course can be testing from the medal tees for even the low handicap golfer, it is a pleasure to play all year

round whatever your handicap.

Whether you are just finishing your round or about to go out there is always a warm welcome in the elegant clubhouse. Guests will find a traditional feel with a modern outlook on making everyone welcome. We have excellent practice facilities including a Range with a ball dispenser.

Whether you are visiting the area, travelling North to Scotland or travelling South back home to Yorkshire, we are perfectly situated to break your journey and play one of the premier courses in the North.

To book, please call Julie on 0191 236 2498 or email: admin@thengc.co.uk

FEATURES Championship Course for all abilities Premier Golf Club Elegant clubhouse with stunning views Excellent practice range Fantastic greens Britannia Grand Hotel 100 yards Travelodge 200 yards

SPECIAL OFFER

NORTHUMBERLAND GOLF CLUB 4 BALL ÂŁ45 pp Inc: Coffee, bacon sandwich and a basket of range balls each

Please contact Julie on 0191 236 2498 to book a Tee Time or email admin@thengc.co.uk and quote YG2020 Offer expires 31/12/20

Subject to availability weekdays and sundays