e as Ple
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The County
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py co
South East Edition
ISSUE 10
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GOLF IN THE
CITY
London’s new state of the art driving range set to open See Page 4
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Golf Breaks
April rates available call for availability
Links and Lodges Packages from
ÂŁ129.00pp To include 1 night Bed & Breakfast & 2 rounds of golf (based on 2 sharing a standard twin room) - The Lodge overlooking the links and the coast - 38 ensuite bedrooms - Range of bedrooms and comfortable apartments - 27 holes of Championship golf
Contact Richard or Mark on:
T: 01304 611118 E: office@princesgolfclub.co.uk W: www.princesgolfclub.co.uk Prince’s Golf Club, Sandwich Bay, Sandwich, Kent CT13 9QB 2
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ISSUE 10
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News
Peter Alliss:
GOLF MAGAZINE
‘Golf club gender equality has caused mayhem’
V
ETERAN BBC commentator Peter Alliss has claimed the fight to give women equal rights in golf has “caused mayhem”. Recent legislation has given women more rights in golf clubs, while St Andrews and Royal St George’s have both voted to admit female members for the first time. But Alliss told the Radio Times magazine that equality for women had “b*****ed up the game for a lot of people”. “There’s been a hell of a row because four golf courses that hold the Open Championship didn’t have women members,” he said. “I’m told the Ladies Golf Union has lost 150,000 members since equality for women came in," he said. "Hundreds of women have left golf clubs because they’ve gone from paying half fare to full fare. It’s caused mayhem. All of the ISSUE 10
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wives of members at these clubs could have used the facilities for free. When I was at Muirfield a couple of years ago talking to a few of the lady members, I said, ‘What about this equality? You must be happy about that?’ ‘God no,’ they said. ‘We can come here and do what we like, we can play golf and don’t pay anything’.” He added: “The equality thing is a great part of golf. Equality for women: a few people battled away to get it, they got it, and they have buggered up the game for a lot of people.” Alliss also expressed regret that the 2016 Open Championship will be the last to be broadcast live on the BBC before Sky Sports takes over. The former professional golfer, 84, told the magazine: “I very much regret that the BBC has lost the Open Championship, but I said it might do 10 years ago.” www.countyzonegolfmag.co.uk
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News
Changing the face of London golf O
pening 1st July 2015, is a new state of the art 60 bay golf driving range in the heart of London. It’s unusual to have a driving range as part of a major residential scheme. “It will be nearly 300 metres long and if you hook your shot you will be heading towards Canary Wharf – if you slice it you will be going towards the O2 Dome” commented Richard Margree – CEO of Knight Dragon Developments. A riverside 5km running 4
track and a tree lined park stretching from near the O2 will join the golf range in the 15,000 home scheme set over 170 acres The range is being created as a joint venture between Knight Dragon Developments & N1Golf and is costing several million pounds to create. The range will have 60 bays with flight technology and screens in the bay’s, 10m deep proving a middle entertaining area with seating and tables similar to ten pin bowling. In addition, a fine dining restaurant offering 600 different wines
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with a Wine School and a fully stocked 3000sq ft retail shop are all being built Declan Malone – PGA Professional and Founder of N1Golf said “ This is the biggest thing to happen in London golf for thirty years. With N1 golf centres and academies located around the UK, this will be our flagship. N1 aim to make this facility not just a place to “whack some balls” but to revolutionise how golf is perceived - by being a family, corporate, fun, golf entertainment facility. Apart from the obvious corporate and residential The County Zone SOUTH EAST
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News
Have your companies name attached to the new driving range Oppourtunities like this don’t come along very often, N1 Golf are seeking a partner to attach their company name or brand to this new multi-million pound driving range. The location of the site and the huge footfall in the area make this a prime site to benefit any company no matter how large or small. For more information or to discuss other commercial oppourtunities email Phil Richins, Marketing Director at philrichins@n1golf.com
opportunities, both Knight Dragon and N1Golf feel passionate about promoting grass roots golf in to the more deprived London Boroughs. Through the N1Golf Foundation they will be sending PGA Professionals in to schools and youth centres coupled with tuition sessions over at the Greenwich Peninsula Range. There will be a fully serviced N1 Academy at the range with eight full time PGA Professionals available for lessons and advice” Knight Dragon are regenerating the entire Greenwich Peninsular over the next twenty five years ISSUE 10
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with 15,000 new homes, hotels, shops, schools, a large conference centre and major film studios. The range has 300 yards of river frontage and is directly overlooked by Canary Wharf with all its high rise offices and is immediately adjacent to the O2 Dome. It is located within five minutes of North Greenwich underground station on the Jubilee Line. Club Car vehicles will offer a bespoke golf shuttle service to and from the range for those who do not wish to walk. “Due to the very high profile and positioning of
the Greenwich Peninsula Driving Range we believe it will attract people from all walks of life. With the 60 bays, tuition, retail unit and the Vinotech Compas Restaurant, Bar & Wine School we are able to cater for everyone’s needs from large Corporate events through to children’s birthdays or just an individual who wants to come along and hone their swing” said Phil Richins – Marketing Director of N1Golf Group. For more information on commercial opportunities please contact Phil Richins on philrichins@n1golf.com
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lf Hotel, spa and go break for all LPGT event winners!
ÂŁ500 worth of prizes to be won at every event!
Enter the Lady Pairs Golf Tour Our LPGT events visit an array of premium golf courses across the south of England, offering the complete tournament experience for lady golfers who wish to play and compete
EVENT LOCATIONS & DATES Ashford Festival 26th & 27th May
Ashford GC & Faversham GC
South Wales Classic 17th & 18th June
LPGT events combine pristine, resort courses and beautiful, hidden gems. All pairs will receive afternoon tea on arrival plus their LPGT goody bag
The Vale Resort & Radyr GC
Oxford Pairs Open 8th & 9th July
Studley Wood GC & North Oxford GC
Monmouth Challenge 29th & 30th July
Rolls of Monmouth & Monmouthshire
Wiltshire Gem
19th & 20th August
The Manor House GC & Kingsdown GC
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Our LPGT tournaments will be hosted and ran by PGA Professionals
Find your partner, register online and enjoy the LPGT tournament experience
WWW.LPGT.CO.UK
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The County Zone SOUTH EAST
ISSUE 10
News
Poulter heads up iPlayGolf
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PlayGolfUK, the UK’s newest multiscreen indoor golf destination, has appointed PGA Class AA Professional Danny Poulter as its Director of Golf. Poulter heads up a threeman PGA team at the recently-established golf centre, on the outskirts of Newport Pagnell, which boasts six state-of-the-art simulator screens plus giant TVs, two coaching bays and an advanced custom-fitting centre. The 41 year-old, who has been coaching golfers from beginner level to European Tour winners for over 20 years, previously worked at IJP Design and Windmill Hill GC. Poulter's team at iPlayGolfUK will create a
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new retail, custom-fitting and coaching environment for the region’s golfers.
“This place is truly amazing – in fact, it is golfing heaven” said Poulter. “As a personal golf experience, it is second to none. As soon as you walk through the door it’s all about golf and you’re among friends straight away. iPlayGolfUK offers year-round, allweather, late-night golf entertainment for anyone with a passion for the sport, and I’m excited to join what must be one of the most forward-thinking new golfing ventures in the country”. “Danny’s arrival gives us a huge boost, and we are surely now one of central England’s best places to improve your golf ” said
iPlayGolfUK Managing Director, Neil Wilcox. “In addition we are now the biggest independent custom-fitting facility in Buckinghamshire, and having retail accounts with all the major brands means we can kit golfers out with everything they need to shoot their best-ever round”.
Head PGA Professional Greg Tilbury and Head of Custom Fit Matt Straughan complete the PGA golf instruction team at iPlayGolf. Forthcoming events organised by the new PGA team at iPlayGolfUK include a golf ball fitting day with Srixon, a wedge fitting day with Cleveland, and demo days with TaylorMade and Nike Golf.
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News
‘The King’ set to take Castle Stuart by storm
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he legendary Arnold Palmer is to build his first golf course in the Home of Golf in a partnership with the world renowned Castle Stuart Golf Links in the Scottish Highlands.
The Arnold Palmer Group has confirmed it is joining forces with Castle Stuart’s managing partner Mark Parsinen and his team to collaborate on a spectacular new 18-hole links course on the Moray Firth near Inverness. The new venture will complement the existing course at Castle Stuart, built by Parsinen and Gil Hanse and which has achieved worldwide acclaim since opening in 2009. Plans for the venue’s second iconic course will be submitted within two months and it is envisaged work will get underway early next year. It is planned to have the new links open for use by 2019.
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Palmer, himself, commented: “I have had a strong affection for Scotland since I first went there in 1960 to play in the Open at St. Andrews. I have returned many times since, including a memorable victory in the Open Championship at Troon in 1962. The opportunity to build an iconic golf course in Scotland would be the culmination of all these great experiences. I am looking forward to my visit to Castle Stuart in a few months’ time.” The new course will be similar in length to the existing 7,193-yard links and will feature spectacular views across the Moray Firth as well as the 17th century castle which gives the course its name. Stuart McColm, Castle Stuart Golf Links’ general manager, added: “Having two world class courses in Inverness, together with all the other great courses in the Highlands, will have a significant economic impact.”
The County Zone SOUTH EAST
ISSUE 10
News
“I have had a strong affection for Scotland since I first went there in 1960 to play in the Open at St. Andrews.”
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News
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ISSUE 10
Interview 2013/14 saw the wettest winter on record, with homes, businesses and golf courses alike under water from the flash floods. Here Sweetwoods Park Golf Club Course Manager, Allan Tait, talks about how the course he is responsible for; fought its way out of the floods and made an astounding comeback…
‘We battled the elements and came out on top’ What’s your background before you joined back in March 2014? I began my career when I was 21 as a green keeper at Chartham Park Golf Club. After learning the ropes, I built my career as a well-respected Course Manager at Lindfield for 2 years and Nizels for 5 years. Now 1 year into my role at Sweetwoods Park, I’m enjoying a new challenge. What impact and changes do you feel you have bought to the club in the last year? When I first walked the course at Sweetwoods in January 2014 I witnessed first-hand the damage such a wet and wild winter had incurred. Due to the extreme rain levels I was facing repair work to areas that had never previously suffered in the wet. Over the course of the last 12 months; I’m pleased to say we’ve turned an enormous corner.
My team and I have spent our time firming up the greens and adding new drainage to those worst affected. We’ve dug up and re-drained 4 significant bunkers and put in place an intensive maintenance process. The results have been staggering. In 12 months we’ve been able to reduce the thatch levels by 50%! The course is now in excellent condition ready and raring to go for the start of the season.
What tips could you give golfers when they take on the challenge of 18 holes at Sweetwoods? Sweetwoods was historically known as a ‘chip and run’ course. With the work we’ve conducted over the last 12 months, I’m delighted to be able to say we now have greens that are firm and responsive. Golfers can now hit into the greens, so I’d encourage them to do so!
Loves and hates of the job? The weather!! Only kidding, although I do prefer the summer, the winter provides me more with project work which I enjoy. The summer is a constant maintenance battle against the rapid growth! Dislikes can be golfers who don’t observe course etiquette such as pitch marks in the greens and not replacing divets in fairways.
You talk of exceptional standards… what are your ‘must have’s’ for keeping a course in tip top condition? An enthusiastic and motivated team is key. Also, recently I’ve been using a new sprayer – The Smithco 2000 Spray Star and it’s my new best friend! Much faster than a conventional sprayer, it also gives me complete control over the turf.
Read the full interview with Allan Tait in the news secition of our website www.countyzonegolfmag.co.uk ISSUE 10
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Trust Office • Ingfield Manor School • Five Oaks • Billingshurst • West Sussex RH14 9AX T: 01403 780444 • trustoffice@dvltrust.org.uk • www.dvltrust.org.uk
Registered Charity No. 1089657
CHARITY GOLF DAY Mannings Heath Golf Club Horsham 13th May 2015
• Play the exclusive Waterfall course, a members only course ranked in the Top 100 Golf Courses in England • Bacon roll, tea and coffee on arrival • Three course presentation dinner • Auction and Raffle • WIN a car and a holiday, sponsored by Audi, Five Oaks • Raise money for The Dame Vera Lynn Trust Enter a team of four for £500 or register as an individual for £125 Contact Catherine Bristow on 01403 780444 or email catherine.bristow@dvltrust.org.uk
www.dvltrust.org.uk 12
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The County Zone SOUTH EAST
ISSUE 10
COUNTYNEWS The latest regional news from around the South East
Cuddington Golf Club
Successful start to season for PGA in Surrey schedule
T
he PGA in Surrey got its 2015 schedule off to a flying start with its Annual Dinner and Spring Pro-Am, with golf at Cuddington and West Surrey Golf Clubs followed with an auction dinner at Epsom Downs Racecourse. Supported by Brand Fusion, the event is one of the highlights of the year and helps fund events for the county’s assistants. The overall pro-am winners were Cuddington’s PGA head professional Paul Schunter and his team Issue ISSUE 10
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comprising his father Norman, and Cuddington members John Graves and Kevin Marchesi. They notched up an impressive 85 points between them on their home course, while the winners at West Surrey were Greg Middleton (West Hill) and his amateur team of Richard Bolton, Robert Guilfoyle and Neil Blick with 81 points. Although the original fixture, the 3Ws Pro-Am, was rained off back in February, the concept behind it drove the Spring Pro-Am itself. Played over two courses, West Surrey and Cuddington, 26 teams competed for prizes generously supplied
by Brand Fusion including some of the top products from their Sun Mountain and Super Stroke Grips ranges. Brand Fusion’s continuing support for the county’s PGA Members means they are now going to play 21 events in 2015, six more than the year before. The prizes were certainly the talk of the evening. Each of the amateurs in the winning teams carried off a magnum of wine and a top of the range Sun Mountain golf bag, while the auction included rounds at two of the region’s most famous courses, Walton Heath and The Berkshire, and TopGolf experiences that included champagne for starters.
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News
Kent Golf Union
First “Major” of the year at Broome Park
Chairman: Simon Naylor (Langley Park) Secretary: Paul Loman (Littlestone) Treasurer: Mark Ward (Rochester & Cobham) Presidents: Jim Pocknell (Royal Blackheath) Vice Presidents: Chris Reynolds (Littlestone) Wally Rodgers (Sundridge Park) Past Presidents: Richard Young (Canterbury) Ray Saunders (Mid Kent) Ian Burton (Mid Kent) Captain: Danny Curtis (Knole Park) Board: Paul Cannons (Walmer & Kingsdown) Mike Chaston (Etchinghill) Mark Ward (Rochester & Cobham) Danny Curtis (Knole Park) Simon Naylor (Langley Park) Mark Singfield (Littlestone) Henry Phillips (Rochester & Cobham)
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Alan Goggin (club captain), Sylvia Beacham, Kenny Riddel, Del Burtenshaw and Betty Martin (lady captain)
B
roome Park Golf Club held their first “major” competition of the year, the Diamond Resorts Trophy, at the end of March. Unlike last year, when the competition was staged in glorious sunshine, this year’s field had to cope with cold and windy conditions. The winner of the men’s section was Kenny Riddel (h27) with a nett 68, who finished two shots in front
of runner-up Jimmy Miller (h15). The ladies’ trophy was won by Sylvia Beacham (h13) with a nett 72. Runner-up was the current ladies’ captain, Betty Martin (h21) with a nett 77. The presentation of the trophies was made in the Grand Hall at Broome Park by Del Burtenshaw, general manager of Diamond Resorts Broome Park Golf Ltd, and both winners received a four-day holiday for up to four people at one of Diamond Resorts’ venues in the UK.
Littlestone Golf Club, St Andrews Road, Littlestone, New Romney TN28 8RB Telephone: 01797 367725 14 Fax: 01797 367726
The County Zone SOUTH EAST
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News
The Kent County Ladies Golf Association are organising a new junior girls’ coaching programme which will be held throughout the summer months at Wildernesse and Etchinghill Golf Clubs.
The winner at Littlestone, Anthony Clines
New Kent Tour tees off with a promising start The inaugural event of the new Kent Golf Tour, which is aimed at the county’s amateur players, took place at Littlestone Golf Club. Players from all over the southeast took part in the competition, which was won by Anthony Clines from Nizels GC. He scored 36 points off his six handicap to win on countback from Darren Brame (h8) from Marriott Tudor Park, with scratch player Douglas Cameron from Moor Park finishing third on 35. The Kent Golf Tour will this year feature eight tournaments across the county and is the brainchild of Gemma Woodcock who, together with partner Howard Bonnacorsi, runs the HB Golf Academy and ISSUE 10
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Unique Golf Tours based at Westwell. She said: “The response has been good. The Kent Tour will provide the opportunity for keen golfers of all abilities to play professionally-organised individual events throughout the year at some of Kent’s finest courses. A Tour Championship finale will be played at London Golf Club in October, with players paying £25 for the chance to be part of the Order of Merit. “The champion wins a custom made set of Titleist clubs, while the prize for the Order of Merit winner will be a top-of-the-range trolley.” For more details about the tour, visit their website at: www. kentgolftour.com
The sessions are specifically aimed at girls aged eight and above – or perhaps younger if they already have a golf swing. Each session will comprise 90 minutes of coaching and two hours of coaching/supervision on the golf course. The cost for the six sessions is £60 per person. The programme has been put together by PGA professionals Karl Knight and Sophie Daws. Wildernesse dates are (all Saturdays): May 16, June 20, July 18, August 22, September 19 and October 17. Etchinghill dates are (all Sundays): May 24, June 21, July 26, August 23, September 20, October – TBA. For more details and an entry form, go to the KCLGA website at: www. kentladiesgolf.org.uk
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KENT
KCLGA launch new junior coaching programme
LF EFITS O G N
E B RE ERS’
E ns tio a c F i S EMB appl H T ST M to 40 N O E BE ited M O OF TH tly lim W T ME stric SO ffer D O AN
YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY A KINGS’ RANSOM FOR QUALITY CLUB MEMBERSHIP Packages start from just £29 per month
Members’ benefits include: • Access to 18 hole and 9 hole courses* • Priority times for members daily • Unlimited practice included* • Free juniors with adult memberships* • Intermediates for 18 – 35 Year olds • Annual membership to Hever Castle & Gardens and tickets for your guests*
Contact
Steven on 01732 701004 or email membership@hever.co.uk to reserve your place for 2015 and arrange a club preview round at your convenience.
• Access to competitions * Dependent on membership package 16 www.countyzonegolfmag.co.uk Hever Castle Golf Club, Hever Road, Hever, Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 7NP
GOLF CLUB
ISSUE 10 WWW.HEVER.CO.UK
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News
Paul Cannons (left) presents John Flood with his “Hole in One” tie
John scores an Ace at age of 85!
S
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coring a hole-in-one is a rare achievement for any golfer, and getting an “ace” at the age of 85 even more so.
A great course for golf society days
But’s that just what John Flood did at Walmer & Kingsdown GC recently.
Set in picturesque rural Kent, Poult Wood offers great tailored golf packages to suit society groups of all sizes and abilities. Interesting and challenging 18 hole and 9 hole options available weekdays and weekends.
A long-standing member of the club, John “aced the 135-yard 4th hole, using his driver, and afterwards he organised a carvery lunch for his friends at the club. During the lunch John was presented with a “Hole in One” tie by club captain Paul Cannons, and also with a tankard by his friends in recognition of his special achievement. Meanwhile another W&K member, William Mumbray who, at the age of 75 is a mere “youngster” compared to John, also scored a “hole-in-one” on the same hole and in recognition of his achievement the Williams received a limited-edition BOSS watch and membership of the exclusive BOSS Watches H1Club. ISSUE 10
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To organise your next great day out please call the Pro Shop on 01732 364039 to discuss your requirements.
01732 364039 www.poultwoodgolf.co.uk www.countyzonegolfmag.co.uk
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KENT
News
Barham delighted with success of ‘Coaching Day’
F
ormer European Tour professional Benn Barham, who is now Director of Golf Development for PGolf Coaching, was delighted with the success of the company’s firstever “Coaching Golf Day and Dinner” at London Beach Golf & Country Club. Teams of six from each PGolf Coaching centre, made up of five clients plus the centre’s coach, took part in a nine-hole sixball special competition followed by a presentation dinner. Benn, who lives at nearby Tenterden, said before teeing off: “I think this is the first time that a coaching company such as PGolf has done something like this. Basically, it’s a
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way of saying ‘thank you’ to some of the clients whom we coach, and basically they are getting a free nine-hole round of golf at London Beach plus dinner afterwards. “We really want to make our clients, or students, feel that they are getting something back for coming to us for their golf coaching.” PGolf Coaching is the coaching arm of Pentland Golf and Leisure, for whom Benn has been working since spring 2014. He is based at Pedham Place Golf Centre at Swanley and is thoroughly enjoying the experience after his 12-year European Tour career, during which he played in over 300 tournaments. He said: “I am not really
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the sort of guy who can work in a pro shop five or six days a week, although that might happen in the future. Right now I feel I need to get out and about, mix with different people, network a bit, coach a bit and play a bit, and I am able to do that with this job and so everything is good.” He was also delighted that the London Beach “Coaching Day” raised nearly £2300 for the Golf Foundation charity, helped by a generous donation of £1320 from London Beach, and added: “We are very grateful to London Beach for their support of this project, which has also helped them to showcase their excellent facilities.” For more details about PGolf Coaching, see their website at: www. pgolfcoaching.co.uk The County Zone SOUTH EAST
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Societies welcome Small and friendly Fantastic condition course
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KENT
News
Oates wins opening event on Mid Amateur Tour
T
he Mid Amateur Tour held their opening two events of the year at Littlestone and North Foreland Golf Clubs. At Littlestone, Worksop GC member and reigning Welsh Mid Amateur champion, Andy Oates, remained calm on a very tough day on the Kent Links, with winds gusting to nearly 50mph, to
claim victory with rounds of 78 and 81.The following day Pleasington GC member Michael Hunt managed to tame the greens at North Foreland to take first place with rounds of 83 and 75. Some tricky pin positions made for some unpleasant stories of four, five and even six-putting but everyone played better in the afternoon on another very windy day.
Competitions on the Mid Amateur Tour are all 36 holes medal play and are open to male golfers aged over 35 years with a handicap of 14 or lower. You can enter off a higher handicap but you must play off 14 on the day. For more details, including this year’s full Schedule of Events, go to: www. midamgolf.co.uk
There’s never been a better time to become a member at Broome Park
2015 MEMBERSHIP OFFERS 7 Day membership £700 5 Day membership £500 For more information please call 01227 830728 or visit our website 20 5 ISSUE
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The County Zone SOUTH EAST ISSUE 10 www.countyzonegolfmag.co.uk 20
News
Littlestone Warren GC held their Putt Out competition in difficult, gusty playing conditions.
The new Upchurch captains, from left: Mason Crawley, Marc Seager, Doreen Pasfield and Allan Stuart
New Captains “Drive In” at Upchurch River Valley
T
he new captains of Upchurch River Valley GC took part in the traditional “driving in” ceremony at the Sittingbourne club. The new men’s captain is Marc Seager, who is well known in the county for his past footballing exploits which included being a member of the Deal Town side that won the FA Vase in 2000. The new ladies’ captain is Doreen Pasfield while Allan Stuart is the veterans’ captain and Mason Crawley is the junior captain. The day also saw the opening of
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the club’s brand new 14th green and 17th tee. Both the holes have been lengthened and are now par five, making a total par of 71. Before the “driving in” ceremony 88 members from all sections of the club took to the course in very difficult weather conditions, but that didn’t prevent some good scores being returned. George Cannon became the first course record holder on the new course with a threeover-par 74 while Jo Kite won the Best Lady award, but the competition winner was Veteran member John Towes who came in with any impressive 38 points.
Thirty-four members took part and then stayed on to see a cheque for £4,500 presented to Lindsay Goode, an Ambassador from the Pilgrims Hospice. The winners of the four-ball betterball competition were Maurice Coleman and Janice Wickens with 40pts. Second were outgoing captains’ Matt Harris and Barbara Down, and third were incoming captain David Howe and his playing partner Stuart Patterson. Lindsay Goode gave a brief outline of the range of services provided by the Pilgrims Hospice and is pictured (left) receiving a cheque for £4,500 from Matt Harris and Barbara Down. This was the total raised in the year of Matt and Barbara’s captaincy from April 2014 to March of this year.
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KENT
Littlestone Warren raise £4500 for Pilgrims Hospice
West Kent Golf Club
Milking Lane, Downe, Kent, England, BR6 7LD
Looking to play a social round at our famous course?
APRIL GREEN FEE OFFER
FOURBALL FROM ONLY ÂŁ30 EACH
PLUS: No joining fee in April To book, ring the pro shop on 01689 851323
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News
KENT
News
Surrey Golf Union President: S. Mostyn (Tyrrells Wood) Past Presidents: Richard G Humphrey (Bramley) David A Basham (Burhill) Peter J Saies (Royal Mid-Surrey)
Pin High Golf expands its portfolio with Traditions GC
John WM Ling (Betchworth Park)
in High Golf has announced their acquisition of Traditions Golf Course in West Byfleet, from Crown Golf.
Captain: Mark Booker (Royal Wimbledon)
P
Originally opened in 1999, Traditions was designed by ex Ryder Cup players Peter Allis and Clive Clark. Predominantly operating as a pay and play, this high end course boasts 18 holes of challenging golf in the heartland of Surrey. Pin High Golf ’s Managing Director Tony Healy commented ‘I’m absolutely delighted with this acquisition to the group; and this one feels extra special to me as this was the base for one of my first senior roles within American Golf ’. Tony added ISSUE 10
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‘at that time the course boasted the best greens in Surrey for a public golf course’. With substantial plans to renovate the bunkers, improve course drainage, upgrade machinery and bring in a whole new fleet of buggies, Traditions will shortly be receiving a remarkable transformation to bring this course back to life. Further investment will also be made into the bar and shop areas, creating a refreshed place to relax and shop for golf essentials after a round on the improved greens. One of the first priorities Pin High Golf will be tackling is to bring the golf course specification back to its high standard with a new course programme.
William Bryce (Royal Mid-Surrey) Martin Christmas (R- M-Surrey) Roger Vincent (Burhill)
Board of Directors: Jack Buchanan (Hindhead) Terry Christy (West Byfleet) Stuart King (Reigate) Alan Page (Purley Downs) Steve Parrish (Burhill) Ken Schofield (West Hill) Secretary: John A Davies (Reigate Heath) Treasurer: Stewart Simpson (Effingham)
www.surreygolf.org Sutton Green Golf Club, New Lane, Sutton Green, Surrey GU4 7QF Telephone: 01483 755788 Fax: 01483 751771
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SURREY
Feature
Croham Hurst set to keep driving forward
C
olin Montgomerie no less described Croham Hurst as “one of the nicest courses in the South East of England” after he made a recent visit – but the Surrey club are determined not to rest on their laurels. Situated in rolling countryside just two miles from central Croydon, the parkland course has undergone a £500,000 refurbishment programme of the clubhouse, including brand new state-of-theart gents’changing rooms, which is intended, in the words of club manager Steve Mackinson, to ensure that “Croham Hurst maintains its position as the best golf club
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in the area”. Designed by FG Hawtree and James Braid, the course was opened in 1911 and, built on chalk, it offers the opportunity of year-round golf, especially as the recent investment programme also included spending £30,000 on improving the irrigation system. But the biggest chunk of that investment money, over £300,000, has been spent on refurbishing the main function room, which is a popular venue for wedding receptions and other special occasions, and also replacing the clubhouse roof. Steve, who has been club manager for the past six years, said: “It’s all about the club, which has 600 full
members, keeping up with the times and retaining the current membership while attracting new members.” And, with regard to the latter, Croham Hurst are currently offering two special deals. Anyone who takes out a full membership after May 1st will enjoy a 30 per cent reduction in their first year’s subscription, which means they will pay £1100, saving over £450. Or, if you are not looking for a full membership, you can take out a “Restricted Off Peak” membership, under which you can play after 2pm seven days a week for just £775. For more details, ring Steve on 020 8657 5581 or see the club website at www.chgc. co.uk The County Zone SOUTH EAST
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SURREY
News Roehampton Club is member for rebranded World of Leading Golf The exclusive Roehampton Club, in the heart of South West London, has become the first new member of the recently rebranded World of Leading Golf (WLG), a corporation representing some of the globe’s most distinctive clubs.
Hindhead men win Surrey Scratch Plate
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he 2014 Surrey Scratch Plate has been won by Hindhead Golf Club. The scratch team of Dougie Hunter, Ian Rennie, Scott Pluthero , Jason Allocca, and George Theodore defeated Malden at the East Course at Wentworth, in a final match that had been postponed since last October. The matches were all close affairs, but solid play and determination by the team, over 18 holes of singles Match Play, resulted in a convincing victory of 4-1 for Hindhead and their team manager, Alan Harlow. Dougie Hunter was the first to play, and found ISSUE 10
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himself three down early on. Despite managing to get back to one down a couple of times, he lost his match. The second match was Ian Rennie, playing the Malden captain and past County captain, who managed to get ahead early, winning 4&3. Scott Pluthero was next to play, and eased into a three hole lead around the middle of the back nine, so sealing his match 2&1. Jason Allocca always looked in control of his match, but it wasn’t until the middle of the back nine that he finally edged decisively ahead, to win 4&3. And finally, George Theodore’s solid play on the back nine put him in the lead winning on the 17th.
Formerly known as Leading Golf Courses of Europe, WLG changed its identity to better reflect its burgeoning worldwide influence. Roehampton Club, a unique private members’ sports club, with a reputation for its smooth greens, is the first venue to be accepted as a member since the new name was launched. In addition to a 6,300yard, par-71 attractive parkland golf course - remodelled in 2010 by Ken Moodie and Ken Brown of Creative Golf Design - members also benefit from 30 tennis courts, including 10 championship grass courts; four worldchampionship standard croquet lawns; five heated squash courts, with a sixth under construction; two swimming pools; and a state-of-the-art gym and fitness studio.
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News News
News
Sussex Golf Union President: David Richardson - (Eastbourne Downs) County Secretary: Anup Vasant JP - (Dyke Golf Club) Assistant County Secretary: Nicky Reeves - (Eastbourne) Captain: Alan Covey - (Ifield Golf Club) Junior Manager: Ian Jaggard - (Mannings Heath) Treasurer: Ray Smith - (Crowborough) Committee Members: Ron Collie - (Haywards Heath) Michael Phillpot - (West Hove) Gerry Honeysett - (H. Heath) Richard Stewart - (Dyke GC) Mike Grindell - (Dyke GC) Richard Thomas (W.Sussex) Past Presidents: Michael Vans Agnew - (Dyke GC) Derek Sparrow - (Dyke GC) Richard Palmer - (Royal Ashdown) Bernard Yates - (Dyke GC) David Harmer - (Willingdon) John Bury - (East Sussex National) Vice Presidents: Joe Pierce - (Ham Manor) David Alderson - (West Sussex Golf Club) John Wilson - (West Chiltington) Gary Scarfield Kerry Scott JP - (Copthorne GC) Trevor Greenfield - (Pyecombe GC)
www.sussexgolf.org Eastbourne Downs Golf Club, East Dean Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN20 8ES
Telephone: 01323 746677 Fax: 01323 746777 Our email is: 26 countyoffice@sussexgolf.org
Brighton’s Slumbers to succeed Peter Dawson
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he R&A has announced the appointment of Martin Slumbers as Chief Executive and also as Secretary of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, with effect from 1 October 2015. Martin will succeed Peter Dawson who is retiring in September 2015 after 16 years leading the body which organises The Open Championship and governs golf worldwide, jointly administering the sport with the USGA. He will join The R&A in March 2015 as Chief Executive Designate and spend six months working with Mr Dawson before his retirement. www.countyzonegolfmag.co.uk
Martin has been a member at Brighton and Hove Golf Club since the 1980s and was on the Committee as a young man as early as 1984. He often played for the club in Brighton and District Golfing Society (BDGS) low handicap competitions and also played in Sunday morning competitions here on weekends. He was Club Champion in 1984, 1986, 2000 and 2010. Born in Brighton and educated at Lancing College, Martin (54) lives in Surrey and as a keen golfer is also a member of Worplesdon Golf Club there. He is married with two sons. “The R&A is one of the most influential bodies in world sport and I am delighted to be taking up this position”. The County Zone SOUTH EAST
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Feature
Sweetwoods Park celebrates 21 years
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t’s hard to believe that Sweetwoods Park Golf Club is turning 21 this April. The club is conveniently located along the A264 between Tunbridge Wells and East Grinstead in Kent. First opened in 1994, the landscape has matured into a truly magnificent course. Purchased in recent years by one of the Crystal Palace Football Club owners; Martin Long, Sweetwoods has enjoyed significant investment, excellent facility upgrades and fantastic ongoing developments, to provide only the best in Member and visitor golf. Sweetwoods greatly values its Members, many of whom
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have been loyal to the club since day one. Aside from the friendly, mixed play feel that the club creates; the Members often say the course is what keeps them coming back year after year. So what’s all the fuss about? Well, if you’ve not enjoyed a round at Sweetwoods, book a tee time this spring, you won’t be disappointed, especially since the new Course Manager Allan Tait took over in March 2014, the course has seen significant developments in the last 12 months. As you navigate your way around the challenging 18 holes, you’ll be met with variety, tremendous views, lakes and water hazards,
streams, mature woodland and the old village of Cowden with its imposing Church spire watching over the 4th green. Set in ‘The Wealden Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ golfers are even playing on a piece of history with a roman road under the 1st and 2nd fairways, a wartime airstrip, towering beeches and swathes of oak and birch. Visitor golfers are warmly welcomed, so pay a visit to www.sweetwoodspark.com This April there are a limited number of memberships available, please contact the club to find out more on 01342 850729 or email: golf@sweetwoodspark.com
www.countyzonegolfmag.co.uk
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Competition
WIN AN EXCLUSIVE GOLF BREAK
for two at The Manor House, Wiltshire
W
e are delighted to offer one lucky reader the opportunity to play a round of golf at The Manor House, an Exclusive Golf Club, nestled within the stunning Cotswolds countryside in the picturesque valley of Castle Combe.
ENTER BY POST OR ONLINE Send your entry by completing the form below and posting it to us or visit our website www. countyzonegolfmag.co.uk to enter online
Hailed as the No.1 course in Wiltshire via ‘Top 100 Golf Courses of the World’, the Peter Alliss designed course offers an exciting experience for golfers of all abilities.In addition, the prize package includes a luxury overnight stay for two at The Manor House, three course dinner in the Michelin starred Bybrook restaurant as well as a hearty breakfast the morning after their stay. Offering a combination of
award-winning golf, five star accommodation and a Michelin dining experience, this is a competition not to be missed. For more information please visit: www.manorhousegolf. co.uk/EXCLUSIVE_HOTELS/ the_club.aspx Terms and Conditions: Prize includes a one night golf break for two in a traditional guestroom to include a round of golf, three course dinner, bottle of sommelier chosen wine and mineral water at The Bybrook, plus breakfast, based on two people sharing one room. Prize must be booked and redeemed by 31 September 2015, excluding bank holidays, subject to availability.
WIN AN EXCLUSIVE GOLF BREAK AT THE MANOR HOUSE Which famous name designed the Manor House golf course?
ANSWER: NAME: ADDRESS:
Please complete this form and post to: The County Zone, 5 Tangle Oak, Felbridge, Surrey, RH19 2PG Competition runs unti May 18th, 2015. Terms and conditions apply.
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POSTCODE: CONTACT No. EMAIL:
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ISSUE 10
EQUIPMENT ZONE SPONSORED BY GOLFSTREAM - The Golf Trolley Experts
“Golphinforkids clubs provide an innovative solution for young kids aged 4 to10 year olds . The light weight club head and other design features means young kids can be taught a proper swing technique from an early age. The best kids club I have ever seen.”
PGA Professional, Graham Fox
F
ounded in Scotland, the Home of Golf, Golphin design and manufacture specialised golf equipment to encourage more kids, juniors and families to experience the fun of playing the great game of golf. Founder Calum McPherson, formed a group of golf enthusiasts to challenge the reality that very few young kids under the age of 11 years old are playing golf. Determined to understand the reasons and barriers to golf for young kids, Calum and Team Golphin conducted extensive market research in the UK, Europe, Asia
and North America to discover one major common theme – the current offering of golf clubs on the market are too heavy; destroying confidence, fun and enjoyment during the introductory period to golf. To quote one PGA professional interviewed “the clubs swing the kids, rather than the kid swinging the club" . The solution… working with PGA professionals, kids and academia, Golphin invented a light weight golf club with a larger sweet spot to combat this problem. Full Set including carry bag - available in blue or pink £149.99 IN NEXT MONTHS ISSUE: We let the kids loose at the driving range with Golphin’s clubs
For more information visit www.golphin.co.uk
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Equipment
Charge of the light brigade L ithium golf trolley batteries sit alongside distance measuring devices as arguably the fastest-growing equipment sectors in golf. Ladies as well as men are finding the lightness and longevity a real pull when it comes to buying a new battery for their electric golf trolley.Golfstream are the exclusive UK distributors of CaddyCell, the leading brand of premium quality Lithium Ion Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, and have seen a huge surge in their battery business over the past two years. Much of this has been driven by the demand for lighter, longer-lasting lithium batteries as golfers seek direct replacements for their old and heavy lead acid batteries.
These batteries are infinitely superior compared to lead acid batteries because of their high specific energy capacity, long cycle life, compact size, light weight, superior thermal and chemical stability. The incredibly light CaddyCell batteries are the safest, most advanced batteries on the market. And such is their reputation, CaddyCell batteries now come with a full three year warranty against manufacturing or material fault. Golfers will get a full and free replacement during that period - which compares very favourably against other golf battery brands, who typically charge the golfer 50% of RRP for a replacement in the third year of a warranty scheme.
Why you need to know about LiFePO4 Golfstream's Derek Richford says: "Many golfers might think that one lithium battery is pretty much identical to another. But this isn't the case - and it's worth understanding why LiFePO4 really is setting the standard in our industry”. “Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries (LiFePO4) are widely regarded as the safest and most reliable type of lithium battery made today. Each CaddyCell battery has a built-in battery management system (BMS) that manages the cells to give optimum charge and discharge”.
Visit www.caddycell.com for more information 30
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CADDYCELL OPTIONS Each battery comes with its own purpose-designed charger and carry jacket and is available with connectors to almost any make of trolley, including PowaKaddy, MotoCaddy, Hillbilly and Greenhill. Every battery is around 75% lighter than a standard leadacid golf battery and features: • Battery Management System • Full 3-year guarantee • Charger • Neoprene cover • Fits almost any make of trolley • Fully charges in about 3 hours 18 hole battery – RRP: £189 27 hole battery – RRP: £204 36 hole battery – RRP: £229 The County Zone SOUTH EAST
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35% LARGER CLUB HEAD & 30% LIGHTER WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION FAVOURS THE LOWER HALF OF THE CLUB HEAD
The innovative Golphinforkids club head geometry provides many advantages for children at the beginning of their journey into the world of golf.
RADIAL PROFILE MAKES CLUB SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES
35% LARGER SWEET SPOT
HIGH FLIGHT GROOVES
Golphin Ltd, Unit 4, Kyle Business Park, 2 Cunninghame Road, Irvine, Ayrshire, KA12 8JJ (t) +44 (0) 1294 537 676 | www.golphin.co.uk ISSUE 10
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www.countyzonegolfmag.co.uk
www.twitter.com/golphinforkids | www.facebook.com/golphinforkids
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