May 2014

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Braintree Golf Club

www.essexgolfer.com ESSEX GOLFER MAGAZINE – SERVING THE GOLFERS OF ESSEX SINCE 1996


Ryder Cup stars set to sparkle at PGA Seniors in June Ryder Cup hero and two times PGA Seniors Champion, Sam Torrance will be in action at this year’s ISPS Handa PGA Seniors Championship at Stoke by Nayland, returning to the scene of his 2006 triumph here. Also the great Argentinian player, Eduardo Romero, a five times winner on the US Champions Tour, makes his debut in the PGA Seniors on UK soil. This worldwide televised tournament is the flagship event of the European Senior Tour and will be played on the renowned championship Gainsborough course from Thursday 5th – Sunday 8th June. Jose Rivero who played his part in two of the most memorable Ryder Cups ever contested will also be playing. The Spaniard was part of Tony Jacklin’s team of 1985 which famously reclaimed the iconic trophy for the first time since 1957. He was then part of the European team two years later which firmly reestablished itself as a credible force in the face of overwhelming American dominance during the 60s and 70s with an unforgettable first ever victory on US soil in 1987 at Muirfield Village, Ohio. Others of the class of ’87 who have regularly competed in the PGA Seniors Championship are Ian Woosnam, Gordon Brand Jnr and Eamonn Darcy. Rivero and Brand Jnr were fortunate to never taste defeat to the Americans. Many past Ryder Cup stars regularly compete on today’s European Senior Tour and among past players already confirmed for Stoke by Nayland will be Gordon J Brand, Barry Lane and Maurice Bembridge who made four appearances and also once held the course record at US Masters venue Augusta National. Sky Sports pundits Tony Johnstone and Jamie Spence will also be competing – and Wesselingh is trying for a hat trick this year.

Sam Torrance

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THE BURSTEAD

Jose Rivero

GOLF • CLUB

Advance day passes to see these former Ryder Cup stars on your doorstep are priced at just £10, and advance season tickets for all four days cost just £25 – and these can all be purchased online. Youngsters are also encouraged to come along as children under-16 go free with a paying adult. Saturday has been earmarked as a family fun day. For those who want to enhance their experience, there are a number of quality hospitality packages options from £45 to include entry, light breakfast, and 2 course lunch for those looking to make the 72-hole showpiece even more special. With extensive free parking and a packed tented village centrally located next to the 18th green, spectators are guaranteed a great day out and can even give their own games a boost with a free golf coaching clinic from PGA Professionals.

Tye Common Road, Little Burstead, Billericay, Essex, CM12 9SS info@thebursteadgolfclub.com www.thebursteadgolfclub.com

Spring Special 18 holes & Chef Special Weekday £25 / Weekend £30 Offer available from 11.00am

You can buy your entry tickets as well as fantastic value for money hospitality packages by going online to www.stokebynayland.com/pga-seniors or call 01206 265 838 or 01206 265 841 or email sales@stokebynayland.com

Win two VIP Hospitality Packages worth £150 and a chance to watch world class golf in style! All you have to do is enter our short online competition to be in with a chance of winning two all-day hospitality packages to one of the four days of the PGA Seniors Championship at Stoke by Nayland.Your prize would include: Priority parking, entry tickets and programme, coffee and pastries, 3 course lunch with wine, Afternoon Cream Tea, share the hospitality suite with famous Senior Professionals, private terrace overlooking the 9th and 18th greens. To enter, please go www.stokebynayland.com/pgacompetition and answer the following question: Which famous local artist inspired the name of the course that the PGA Seniors Championship will be played on? Final date for entries is 28th May. -3-

Visitors Welcome Twilight from 1.00pm Monday - Friday £18 Saturday - Sunday £22 Contact pro shop for tee time reservations For further information on society deals please contact Chris Nunn Director of Golf on 01277 631 171 chris.nunn@thebursteadgolfclub.com


Golf ’s Missing History Around the turn of the twentieth century, travel was becoming popular and was made easier with the improvement of road and rail networks. Golf courses were laid out near many wayside railway halts and country beauty spots. Many of the original courses were laid out haphazardly rather than constructed to a plan; with few artificial bunkers they relied on “natural hazards” The greenkeepers had a thankless task, with hand mowers and rollers for the greens and fairway cutting machinery hauled by horses fitted with special shoes to avoid damage to the course – at least there was plenty of fertiliser supplied free of charge. Unfortunately some of the courses enjoyed only brief success, tragically curtailed in many cases by the two World Wars. Clubs which began with such optimism and commitment on the part of their founding members were forced to close when those members went to war, or when the land itself was needed for the war effort. Many of the courses were never going to be “Championship” standard, but each brought the game of golf to those communities.

18 holes of golf and ham, egg and chips

£25 per person

In some cases remnants of these courses can still be seen, sadly overgrown, neglected, and barely recognisable. In other places motorways, airports, power stations, schools or housing estates now dominate a once green and pleasant landscape.

Monday – Thursday only Maximum guests 8

Please call 01245 440005 to reserve your tee time

If anyone has any further information on lost clubs or courses please get in touch with Essex Golfer info@essexgolfer.com

Tony Hawkins Essex Golfer Magazine 7c Perry Road, Freebournes Industrial Estate, Witham, Essex CM8 3UD Tel: 01621 815 577 Email:- info@essexgolfer.com www.essexgolfer.com

Channels, Belsteads Farm Lane Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT T: 01245 440 005 E: info@channelsce.co.uk

The opinions expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright. No part of this publication may be scanned, digitised, reproduced or photocopied, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted, in any way or means, either by recording or otherwise, without prior permission of the publishers in writing. Advertisements created by Essex Golfer remain the property of the company and may not be reproduced in any other publication without prior permission.

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FREE OF CHARGE Application by email only, or via our website (UK POSTCODES ONLY) please send your name and address to

info@essexgolfer.com www.essexgolfer.com -5-


COLCHESTER

With a nice April compared to last year and we have seen plenty of customers. Ladies clothing sales have been the best for many years and we are already looking to bring in some extra ranges to top it up. On the equipment side the top sellers for us have been the new golf buddy GPS watch is excellent value at £159 with no subscription. The difference with this one is that it does not just have front middle and back but hazards as well! Available in black and white this is selling very well. The new Motocaddy M1 trolley which folds down exceptionally small is also proving to be a big hit. And talking of electric trolleys the new lithium batteries which are lighter, quicker to recharge and have a 5 years guarantee* (staggered in year 3, 4 & 5) is in one of our special offers this month along with 3 other tempting offers. The Ping G20 wood and irons are still going well with a top premium driver at £139 it’s been a great hit. The new range of MD golf products which feature top components that compare with all the other leading brands but at half the price, again has been selling remarkably well. Drivers start from £109 and even include a moveable head driver at £129. All of this plus the try before you buy on woods and our experienced staff you can ensure you will get the best honest service with competitive pricing.

Phil -6-


20% off

18 hole lithium battery.

clothing when you buy 3 items of current stock*

£20 off

with this voucher

*no sale items or offer clothing to be included

NAME: ............................................... ............................................................

NAME: ............................................... ............................................................

EMAIL: ............................................... ............................................................

EMAIL: ............................................... ............................................................

COLCHESTER

Offers end 31st May 2014. With voucher only.

Offers end 31st May 2014. With voucher only.

COLCHESTER

£20 off any

20%

off any Wilson, Nike, Callaway and Srixon balls when you buy 2 dozen*

shoes over £80 when you bring in your old shoes

*no offer items included, maximum 4 dozen per person

NAME: ............................................... ............................................................

NAME: ............................................... ............................................................

EMAIL: ............................................... ............................................................

EMAIL: ............................................... ............................................................

COLCHESTER

Offers end 31st May 2014. With voucher only.

Offers end 31st May 2014. With voucher only.

COLCHESTER

NEVADA BOB’S COLCHESTER 75 LONDON ROAD, COPFORD, COLCHESTER, ESSEX CO6 1LG TEL: 01206 212 752 EMAIL: info@nbcolchester.go-plus.net

COPFORD

Hours of Opening: Monday to Friday 9am to 6.30pm, Saturday 9am to 5.30pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm. Directions: Store is only 15 minutes from Chelmsford just before Colchester. Come up the A12, turn off at the A120 junction, keep right and go over the A12, take the 1st exit into London Road. Store is 1 mile down this road on the right hand side. -7-

COLCHESTER

A12

B408 J25

MARKS TEY

NEVADA BOB’S


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 

   

        

          

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 

    

   St James Centre, East Rd, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2SX   www.totally-golf.com Tel: 01279 432 288         

Helping you get back in the swing With over 25 years experience, if you ar are e facing the anxiety of a health pr problem, oblem, Springfield Hospital of offers fers everything you would expect fr from om your local private hospital.

Call now quoting ‘SPR2’ for information on all our physiotherapy servi services: ices:

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Sports injury clinic

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01245 234 045 w w w. s p r i n g f i e l d h o s p i t a l . c o . u k Lawn Lane, Springfield, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 7GU

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Golfmark “Club of the Year” 2013

Garon Park Golf Complex Think Golf – Think Garon Park

Summer Mid-Week Special Mid-Week 2 Ball Deal Green Fees for Two Golf Buggy for Two and a Pint Each Before 3pm £59 normally £73 After 3pm £45 normally £55 Excludes Bank Holidays and is mid-week only deal

Garon Park Golf Complex, Southend-on-Sea, Essex SS2 4FA

Call us 01702

601 701 to book NOW! -9-


THE GARY PIKE GOLF ACADEMY Top teaching professional Gary Pike PGA.AP (advanced professional) invites you to his golf academy at Forrester Park Golf Club near Maldon. Gary has over 31 years of coaching experience and is a David Leadbetter trained instructor. He has published over 150 articles on the golf swing. Gary is coach to Walker Cup player Dale Whitnell and was the Essex County Senior Coach from 1998 to 2012 Contact the golf academy on 07801 428 174 or visit www.garypikegolf.com

CONSISTENT

CHIPPING

The key to consistency with all parts of the game is to do the same procedure over and over again However, the simpler the technique the easier it is to have repetition. This article, chipping is the topic and how to be more consistent. Picture 1 shows my set up for a chip shot from the fringe of the green. I have assembled the set up identical to my putting stroke, with my elbows pointing back towards my hips and my grip on the sides of the club handle.

I have placed two tee pegs in the ground either side of the club head approximately 18 inches behind and the same in the forward position. Pictures 2 and 3 show me practicing this length of swing. My goal is to be able to repeat this length

1

2

of swing and in the same tempo repeatedly.

I will always use this set length of swing when chipping, because I know I can repeat it. Picture 4 and 5 shows me changing the golf club positions to chip the ball different distances, the straighter the face the greater the roll across the green. However, the chip swing remains the same. The roll across the green will always change this cannot be consistent. Some greens are quick and some slow, uphill and downhill will also affect the run of the ball. This is where judgment of club selection is called for but the chip swing always remains the same. Simple and repeatable happy golfing Gary.

3

Gary Pike PGA Advanced Professional

4

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BRENTWOOD GOLF CLUB (Formerly Weald Park)

DAWBNIRD ng RaLyY& Sunday Morni EA aturd 0am

Every S 6am to 7.3 ith a Buggy w 8 Holes 1 s r e y 2 Pla

5 Justin £adv4ance Book

1 375 10 01277

BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY SPECIAL Monday 26th May £15 per person Tee Times Available from 6am

SUMMER GREEN FEE’S Monday – Friday £17.50 Saturday & Sunday £25.00

Summer Golf Society Special Monday to Friday On Arrival: Bacon Rolls with Tea/Coffee 18 Holes Followed By: Ham, Egg & Chips ~or~ Burger & Chips

Just £27per person

(£10 extra per person for Saturday & Sunday) *Discounts on Buggy Hire for Societies *12 or more players, we will donate a FREE 4 Ball Voucher

“Brentwood Golf Club, The club that cares about Members” Coxtie Green Road, South Weald, Brentwood, Essex CM14 5RJ

01277 375 101 - 11 -

Email: russell@brentwoodgolfclub.co.uk Web: www.brentwoodgolfclub.co.uk


THE RULES OF GOLF The new rules of golf at your fingertips New golf rules have been in force since 1st January 2012; it is therefore high time to get a new rule book for your golf bag. The best choice is “Golf Rules Quick Reference 2012-2015”. The multi award-winning, ring-bound book has already sold more than a million copies and contains the answers to all the rules questions that commonly arise on the golf course. It is intended to be used while on the course, therefore it has a practical pocket-sized format, uses hard-wearing, water-repellent paper and has a sturdy protective cover. As every rules situation is illustrated (more than 170 graphics), players can find the right solution straight away. To sum it up, this little gem belongs in every golf bag. £11.95 Tel: 01621 815 577

Order now on online at www.essexgolfer.com - 12 -


Summer Sizzler Try our Power Tees

SUMMER SIZZLER OFFER ONLY WITH THIS VOUCHER Simply book your tee time on 01206 843333 and then fill in your details below and bring along this voucher when you arrive for your game of golf.

Name Email Address . * 1 course meal - Either choose from the Specials Board or a Pizza - homemade in our wood fire pizza Oven. **Buggies - Must be booked in advance and there must be a minimum of 3 players. This offer is not valid with any other offer or promotion. This offer is valid until September 30th 2014. Offer subject to availability T&C C s apply .CODE: PGCSS14 Playgolf Colchester, Bakers Lane, Colchester, CO3 4AU. 01206 843333. www.playgolfcolchester.com - 13 -


Five Lakes GC – Chamois Trophy With spring very much in the air the Lakes golf course was getting back to its normal self. Almost 50 golfers competed in the Chamois Trophy on Saturday 12th April. Five golfers returned nett 74's Duncan Sheppard (6), Phil Roblin (14), Danny Owen (14), Dave Chignell (12), and Mike Owen (17) all of which remained just outside the main prizes. Phil Robson (10) returned a nett 73 losing on count back to Sandy Hood (17) taking 3rd place with a better back 9 holes, 2nd slot went to Ian Cottee (9) playing to his handicap with a 72, however winner of the 'Window Cleaners Trophy' was 6 handicapper Malcolm Pook with a nett 71, Malcolm also claimed the Club Captain John Mayle Scratch prize with a presenting the Chamois Trophy to Malcolm Pook. gross 77.

Sunday Summer Sunshine Special Enjoy a light lunch followed by 18 holes on a Sunday afternoon

£25.00 per person Teeing off after 2.00pm

Offer available 1st May - 31st September 2014 Subject to availability

Minimum of two players required

Book through the office on 01206 853396 or via email: richard@colchestergolfclub.com

GOLF DAY tee it up for charity... Age UK Essex

Friday 30 May from 11.30am at The Notleys Golf Club, Witham Road, Black Notley, CM8 1ST

Price includes: tea/coffee and bacon rolls on arrival, 18 holes of golf, two course meal with raffle and auction plus nearest to the pin competition. Field is limited to 80 players so get in quick to secure your spot. For more information or to book please call Age UK Essex on: 07584 608483 or email fundraising@ageukessex.org.uk Registration closes on 23 May. All the money raised in Essex stays in Essex.

www.ageukessex.org.uk

£170 for a team of four

Charity No. 1091058 - 14 -


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ĂƐŝůĚŽŶ 'ŽůĨ ůƵď ^ƉĞĐŝĂů KĨĨĞƌ ŽŶ ŵĞŵďĞƌƐŚŝƉ ƵŶƚŝů :ƵŶĞ ϮϬϭϱ ĚƵůƚƐ άϳϬ͕ hŶĚĞƌͲϭϴ͛Ɛ άϮϬ

^ŵĂůů͕ &ƌŝĞŶĚůLJ ůƵď͕ ZĞŐƵůĂƌ ŽŵƉĞƚŝƚŝŽŶƐ͕ DĞŶ͕ >ĂĚŝĞƐ Θ :ƵŶŝŽƌƐ ǁĞůĐŽŵĞ &Žƌ ĚĞƚĂŝůƐ ƐĞĞ͗ ǁǁǁ͘ďĂƐŐŽůĨĐůƵď͘ƵŬϳ͘ŶĞƚ ^ĞĐƌĞƚĂƌLJ͗ ϬϭϮϲϴ ϱϯϯϮϵϳ Žƌ ĞŵĂŝů͗ ĂƐŝůĚŽŶ' ΛƵŬϲ͘ŶĞƚ

PGA Collection Supports Junior Golf Programmes Sigma Golf headed by Advance Fellow Professional Richard Jewell is supporting Junior Golf by offering fellow professionals the opportunity of purchasing PGA Collection Kids 7 irons at a substantially discounted price.

decides to take up the game they use a club that is suitable for them and not a cut down adult club. “We have already had a good response from fellow professionals involved in Junior coaching and taking up the 7 iron offer. It is a win win situation, not only do they receive a suitable club but also the pro benefits from future sales of clubs to match the 7 iron.”

The extensive range includes 3 age sizes in both left and right hand plus a bespoke range for the girls. Richard explained “Sigma Golf are working closely with Golf Foundation’s well established Golf Roots programme and the newly formed Bitesize Golf that acts as a continuous pathway into club and facility coaching. It is so important that when any young person

PGA Collection www.pgacollection.co.uk

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Basildon Golf Course

a great golf course just starting a new era There has been quite a renaissance at Basildon Golf Course since last October. It was then that Colin Jenkins, a former PGA European Tour player, acquired a 75 year lease on the golf course in the heart of Basildon. The course, which was opened by Sir Michael Bonallack in 1967 has always been a great layout and played host to a number of big professional events. Over the last 10 years, the course had fallen into varying degrees of disrepair. There was a botched takeover by the Jack Barker Group, which would have had this superb course covered in imported soil, had it not been for the committed action of the local residents. The course nearly closed on several occasions and there had been little or no investment in machinery and long-term maintenance in recent years. Today however, the course's future is much brighter. Stephen Swanson was appointed as head greenkeeper from the outset in October last year. Swanson is a highly experienced and expert greenkeeper, having been involved in golf course maintenance and construction around the world for all of his working life. Over the last eight months Swanson and his team, which now number eight in total, have rebuilt paths, refurbished all the bunkers, redefined the playing areas and generally reworked the whole course. It is the greens where most work has been done. They have been regularly cored, dressed, seeded and lovingly tended since the moment Swanson arrived. The irrigation system has also been completely rebuilt and the drainage system totally overhauled, Tees, fairways, surrounds and greens are now all groomed carefully by the team. The difference in the course is quite remarkable from last year, when there were lots of complaints and a bleak outlook for the long term. The course now looks completely different, with trees felled, trimmed and clipped to a standard never previously seen at Basildon. Mowers can now drive under the trees and cut grass to a closely cropped length which allows golfers to find

their ball quickly and to also hit a worthwhile shot from underneath the trees' canopy. Planning permission has just been granted for a new totally covered golf range, a clubhouse extension and outside patio and dining area. Inside the clubhouse, the changes have already been implemented, with the golf shop and bar area now occupying one open plan space, which will soon be expanded with the clubhouse extension. PGA professionals James Gurry, Will Farrow and Jenkins himself all teach at Basildon and are heavily involved in promoting the game at all levels. National Golf Month gives all new and returning golfers the opportunity to have an hours coaching and play a couple of holes.These hour long, group sessions are proving exceptionally popular and cost just ÂŁ10 including coffee on arrival, club hire, course fees and a glass of beer or wine afterwards. The course at Basildon also plays host to Basildon Golf Club. One of the most successful and competitive golf clubs at any public course, the club has had an awkward time over the last few years, as it's fortunes have mapped that of the whole complex. Importantly though, it has a very strong membership and the group play regular competitions and host a number of matches and events - all are well attended and the whole place has a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. To underline the rebirth of the golf complex at Basildon, Jenkins has entered into a long-term agreement to host The PGA East Anglian Open Championship at Basildon (15-17 September 2014). This historic event will be played each year at the course and be part of the PGA in England (East) Order of Merit and has been underwritten to the tune of ÂŁ120,000 over the next five years. This is a clear indication of the intent of the new regime and shows local golfers that Basildon is back as a force for golf in Essex. For more details please visit the website: www.basildongolfcourse.com or call 01268 533 532.

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Sarah Bennett Golf Come and visit Sarah at Three Rivers Golf & Country Club and learn from a Ladies European Tour & PGA Qualified Professional. Sarah has over 20 years of experience in the industry, a former +4 hcp player, one of the lowest handicap’s achieved in the UK. Sarah was one of a select few British players to win the Moria Smyth Salver (low amateur Women’s British Open). A certified TPI Junior L2 Fitness Instructor and Jim Hardy Plane Truth Certified Instructor Sarah coaches players new to the game, through to County and the Professional ranks. She is delighted to pass on her first-hand experience to guide and assist her clients with course management techniques incorporating the mental side with her specific qualification. Lessons available with Sarah: 07719 617 349 E: SarahBennettGolf@gmail.com

“HAVE YOUR CAKE & EAT IT!” Follow me on Facebook: SarahBennettGolf Twitter @sbennettgolf

Well I would imagine you are thinking I have sent in the wrong article and should be reading your cookery book!!

The cake which I made raised considerable funds for the charity I work closely with. Thank you to everyone who contributed. A comment was posted on one of my social media platforms about the cake which gave me the idea to write this article. The statement was: “How far is the carry over the water? I am not sure if I can make it” This statement is said and heard many times during a round of golf • How well do we REALLY know our yardages? I would imagine a high percentage of golfers possess a distance measuring device, but do we really know our ”average” yardage. If you have been working with your coach, following a

fitness programme or had a custom fit during the winter months it is likely that you will need to reassess your club carry distances which is an easy process but takes a little time. • As golfers we want to “have a go” at a shot that realistically he or she knows is not within their skill set but feels they must because everyone else in the group will have a go! Course Management is an essential element to producing lower scores or additional stableford points.The decision making process has a massive outcome on subsequent shots during a round and can easily affect confidence and motivation levels in a detrimental way. I like to coach “There is show golf and there is

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golf” SBG My goal is to produce the lowest score possible not necessarily using the most flamboyant shots in the book to try and impress! So, looking at the cake if we think it is unlikely we are able to carry the water & bunker let’s play “snooker” plan our way down the hole, leaving ourselves a shot that we are capable and confident of playing with damage limitation and a chance for a par.

nside 1. A tee shot aimed towards the gree a with tee) the (from right hand bunker finish will that age yard a g ucin prod club short of the bunker d to 2. This will leave a choice of shots aime the all ding avoi the right of the flag trouble leave a 3. Playing smart in this instance will the cing redu thus putt possible par s.` likelihood of too many dropped shot Try focusing on these simple thoughts listed below which I hope will assist you greatly next time you venture on the course. • Play within your skill and handicap level • Don’t attempt a shot you have never practiced before! • Don’t always aim at the flag (This will have been emphasised during the Masters) • Centre of the green will leave you close every time • Be flexible with club selection, hit a fairway wood from the tee if this means centre of the fairway or ideal position • “Don’t play to impress … play to score” SBG Copyright SarahBennettGolf 2014

If you would like any information on course management sessions either as a group or individually please contact E: SarahBennettGolf@gmail.com M: 07719 617349 W: www.SarahBennettGolf.co.uk Keep up to date on my new Blog.

www.SarahBennettGolf.blogspot.co.uk - 21 -

THE BURSTEAD GOLF • CLUB

Tye Common Road, Little Burstead, Billericay, Essex, CM12 9SS info@thebursteadgolfclub.com www.thebursteadgolfclub.com

The Burstead golf club is a proprietary owned club that carries the values of a traditional members club where visitors and guests are made welcome. • • •

Societies welcome (Monday – Sunday) Membership available (no joining fee) Membership rates start from as little as £334

For further information on membership or society deals please contact Chris Nunn Director of Golf on 01277 631 171 chris.nunn@thebursteadgolfclub.com


ion eti t om p eC Pr iz

DOES THIS GREAT ESSEX GOLF HOLE

look familiar?

Name the course and have the chance of winning A FOURBALL ON THE MYSTERY COURSE COLCHESTER 12 SRIXON Z STAR GOLF BALLS, courtesy of plus 2 of each VEGAS BALL MARKERS, Golf Rules Quick Reference Book and the Trouble Shots and Quick Fix Guide Please email your answer to info@essexgolfer.com All correct answers will be entered into a draw for the prize Winner will be notified by email. Answer will be published next edition. Only 1 entry per person. No cash equivalent.

ION T I PET NER M CO WIN

Last month’s winner was Terry Arnold who recongnised the 7th hole at Millers Barn Golf Club

To play at Millers Barn Golf Club Call 01255 424 826 www.millersbarngolf.co.uk - 22 -


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Brave investment in tough conditions pays dividends at Warley Park Golf Club, near Brentwood, has been able to sustain its reputation as one of the best clubs in Essex, due in no small part to its commitment to course maintenance when other courses are choosing the false economy of cost cuts in this area. Club manager Stuart Orrin said: “We were closed for just seven days in total over the rain-affected winter whilst a straw poll of other courses within 20 miles of us showed that they were closed for an average of 30 days, with some closed for as many as 60 days. “It is a little known fact that many worms produce surface mud casts (you will generally see these little spirals of mud if you look closely at any lawn) which then get smeared by the effects of rain, footfall, golf trolleys and so on. “By spraying environmentally-friendly wormdeterrent chemicals on the course each year at a cost of over £4,000, when other courses have chosen the false economy of not doing so, we have substantially reduced the amount of surface mud, which is a root cause of muddy fairways, leads to poor drainage and delays grass growth during the following season. “We use chemicals that don't kill the worms; they simply act as a mild irritant that stops them casting so often. “The fact that we are in a small natural valley with a chain of lakes running through the centre of it tends to mean that water drainage is naturally speeded up. Flatter courses would suffer more significantly than we do from standing water. “In addition, we have had a rule for the past three years that all trolleys must have Hedgehog style wheels on them throughout the winter, to help further reduce mud-smear and help to aerate the

turf. As a by-product this actually means that trolleys can be used all year round by our members and visitors enhancing the golfers experience.” Capital investment in the correct equipment has also been key to ensuring Warley Park has one of the longest high-quality playing seasons seen at any golf course locally. Head Greenskeeper Dominic Rodgers said: “The entire course is verti-drained using specialist machinery every autumn to allow the best possible drainage to take place. This machine inserts hundreds of thousands of small, but deep, holes in the course to increase drainage capacity. “Our experience of having a course in a valley, where natural streams occur even in the driest years, means that we are well-versed in handling waterflows through ditch maintenance and course management, thus better preparing us for excessively wet periods such as last winter.This means that we never have to resort to using temporary winter tees or greens, which golfers hate.” Stuart Orrin further praises the course by saying: “Proof of our success is that whilst most courses had only just reopened in mid-March, we had our buggies back in use by that point. “We have taken on 15 new 7-day members during March which is undoubtedly due to us having hosted visitors from other clubs whilst their home clubs were closed and showing them the benefits of our water management policies.” Warley Park currently has a membership recruitment drive to celebrate it’s 40th anniversary year which aims to set the foundations for the next 40 years by targeting those golfers younger than the club (Under 40) for more details please contact Kevin Smith, Director of Golf, on 01277 224 891 or visit the clubhouse at any time.

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Mersea Island Golf Club no longer exists. In fact it hasn't operated since its sale in 1950. The former clubhouse of Mersea Island Golf Club, Essex, still stands at East Mersea, facing across the Colne Estuary to Brightlingsea, but is now used as a private residence.The course is long returned to its original use as farmland. The Island had much going for it. Rich oyster beds producing the claim of "Best Oysters in the World", an excellent rail link from Liverpool Street to Colchester and on to nearby Brightlingsea which meant it was in easy reach of those who wished to holiday in the area. Boats and yachts from Brightlingsea and Point Clear made regular visits because there was a good landing area with moorings for a lengthy stay without getting ones feet wet. A ferry operated on a regular daily basis, the attraction being good beaches for bathing, good fishing, good boating and yachting and good walking with bracing sea air with great views of the sea. So, in the boom in the popularity of golf at the beginning of the 20th Century, it was an attractive place for a golf club.

The first layout was for a clubhouse and nine holes and it was completed and opened in 1910, a typical links course with a view of the sea from each hole. From the outset the venture proved to be extremely popular with the large military garrison of Colchester and golfers from around Essex eager to try out the new course.With London one and a half hours away by rail and with overnight accommodation relatively cheap and available, it soon became a good place to have a break from city life. For the yachtsman who also enjoys a game of golf, the club provided a game for himself, his friends and guests with his boat anchored less than a cable length from the course. He could play golf, use his boat for accommodation and the facilities of the club for refreshments and meals, an ideal situation. The club could dispense drinks of every kind and could provide snacks, luncheons and dinners.The club had very wisely purchased the rights to the foreshore, which had a good sandy beach and anchorage. For the next three to four years the club prospered and the investment proved to be

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a good one. In 1912 the first Professional was appointed. He only stayed for one year and was replaced in 1913 but this appointment was cut short by the onset of the Great War. The War had a disastrous affect on the club with visitors and the membership reduced to a trickle.The Army requisitioned the course, foreshore and clubhouse for defensive gun emplacements, placed the area off bounds and the course fell into disuse. The Army retained possession for some time after the Armistice, but eventually cleared up and handed back all facilities to the owners. Attempts to restart the Club foundered due to shortage of capital and revenue. Too much needed to be done and the facilities were sold on to a more energetic new owner, who re-laid the original nine holes. A further five opened unofficially in 1927 and the full complement of eighteen was completed two years later. From 1927 to 1939 the Club went from strength to strength, rewarding the commitment and investment of the new owners and putting it on a sound footing. Some idea of the City-based character of the membership came from the annual dinners, which

from 1935 were held at Claridge's Hotel, Mayfair. A band was hired at the substantial cost of 90 guineas, along with a toastmaster and cabaret entertainment. So popular were the dinners up to the end of the decade, that attendance had to be capped at 300. This all came to an end with the Second World War.The Clubhouse and course were quickly taken over once more by the military, with the establishment of anti-aircraft batteries and searchlights. A number of huts were erected and a wire fence erected round the course more to keep out the locals than German Panzers.The beach was mined and a pill box built. The Clubhouse and course were handed back soon after VE Day in 1945, but suffering from dreadful neglect and disrepair. This time there was no way back, no money, no resources and no resolve. In 1950 the course, Clubhouse and seven doublefronted dormy houses were sold for non-golfing use. There is a description of the golf club on www.golfsmissinglinks.org.uk Tony Millatt

FOrresTer pArK GOLF & COUNTrY CLUb MeMberships

Off-peak, summer & 5 Day (From £500) Off-Peak: No greenfees a er 1pm; Summer: No greenfees 1 Mar -31 Oct; 5 Day: No greenfees Mon-Fri. Reduced greenfees outside these &mes ‘Club’ Membership (£305): includes 60 Greenfee Credits Number of credits per round depends on &me of play

7 DAY: No greenfees payable at any time Include Full, Colt (24-35), Student and Junior

MAY GreeNFee OFFer

Two for £28: Pay in advance online – see website for details

Forrester Park Golf & Country Club, Great Totham, Nr Maldon CM9 8EA 01621 891 406 • info@forrester-park.co.uk • www.forrester-park.co.uk - 27 -


Please visit www.stokebynayland.com/pga-seniors for more information Keepers Lane, Leavenheath, Colchester, Essex, CO6 4PZ


&ANTASTIC 3UMMER 'OLF RATES

Wiin a pla ce e in our PGA Sen iors rs Champio i nship o-Am on Wedn Pro esday 4th Ju une 201 4! 33IIMPPL

LY Y BO BOOK OK Y YOU OUR R 'OL OLF " FO FOR F "RE R REAK OR AK OR M MOR ORE E PE PEOP OPLE LE A AND ND W EN ENTE WE TER Y E LL R YOU LL OU IN INTO TO TH THE E CO COMPE PETIT TITIO ION N !S !SK K AB ABOU OUT O T OUR UR 4 4 # #S S

To book your Golf Break or Golf Day please call 01206 265827/262836 or email sales@stokebynayland.com

www w.stokebynayland.com/golf .stokeb +EEPERS ,ANE ,EAVENHEATH #OLCHESTER #/ 0:

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9 HOLES of GOLF

-- 04)&2 .",&3 2&1"*2&% 35#+&$4 40 1"243

with

"44&2*&3 3511-*&% "/% 4&34&% -*4)*5. -&"% "$*%

Pie & Mash to follow

02 .02& */'02."4*0/ 1-&"3& 6*3*4 052 7&# 3*4&

£12 per person with this voucher Call 01245 361100 to book a tee time

7 7"4,*/30/(0-' $0 5, "4,*/30/(0-' $0 5,

(Minimum of 4 people) MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS ONLY Offer expires 30th September 2014

109 Beeleigh Beeleigh Link, Link, Chelmer Chelmer Village V il l a g e 109 Chelmsford, Essex Esse x CM2 CM2 6PH 6 PH Chelmsford,

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Odyssey Weighs In With New Tank Cruiser Putter Odyssey, ‘the #1 Putter in Golf’, today announced the in-store availability of its Tank Cruiser Putter, bringing a new level of fitting to Odyssey’s most technological counterbalanced putter range.

New Royal Albartross Shoes Hit The Street Royal Albartross, maker of the world's most luxurious golf shoes, has launched a new range of street-style, spikeless shoes – all designed to the same exacting standards as its traditional models. Available from retailers in May – and for May delivery on the website now – the range of contemporary spikeless shoes, for men (ladies' versions will be available January 2015), retains the design attributes that established the UK brand as the luxury golf shoe of choice, as worn by the likes of model Jodie Kidd, actor Dougray Scott, Aussie cricket legend Shane Warne and TV sports presenter Dan Walker. Alex Bartholomew, the designer and founder of the brand, explained: “We had received a number of enquiries from existing Royal Albartross customers, both individuals and retailers, with regards to a ‘street-style’ version of our shoe. “Further market research indicated that there would indeed be a demand for street-sole shoes with the trademark Royal Albartross attention to detail. Many of the brands out there offering similar shoes appear to regard their product as only one step up from disposable – but we've steered away from that to keep our familiar technical and design traits, with superior comfort soft leathers, to again offer an upmarket Britishdesigned, Italian-made golf shoe.”

In response to feedback from our Tour Professionals, the Tank Cruiser features three head weights (10g, 15g and 20g) that can be adjusted to suit green speed – the lightest weight for fast greens and the heaviest for slow greens, as well as adjustable weights in the grip (5g, 15g & 30g) to allow golfers to fine tune the club’s balance point to create the perfect feel and deliver solid strokes. The Tank Cruiser features a new White Hot insert for consistent sound, feel and performance across the striking surface. It also sports a new longer (15”) version of the popular SuperStroke Grip, which is designed to help relieve tension in the wrist and forearms, encouraging a pendulum-like putting stroke. www.odysseygolf.com

TaylorMade Golf Introduces SLDR Mini Driver TaylorMade Golf Company, industry leaders in metalwood technology and innovation, announce the launch of the SLDR Mini Driver, a 260cc metalwood equipped with a 43.5” shaft, designed to promote distance and accuracy off the tee for players who frequently drive with their 3-wood. TaylorMade research indicates that a high percentage of golfers, regardless of skill level, hit their 3-wood off the tee more often than from the fairway. However, the 3-wood is designed to hit the ball off turf, not a tee. That void between product design and product use led to the development of the SLDR Mini Driver, which is engineered to be longer off the tee than a 3-wood and incredibly accurate.

www.albartross.com - 30 -

www.taylormadegolf.com


Stay Dry and Light with Big Max Bags With summer just round the corner, Big Max is preparing to keep golfers out for longer in our unpredictable climate with its latest innovations in golf bag technology. With new bags in both cart and stand options and a remarkable new technology that keeps a golfers gear dry and the weight of the bags down, Big Max is one brand that can be relied upon to help golfers stay on the course, whatever the weather. Big Max iDry Aqua Lite Stand Bag Winner of the Golf Europe trade award for innovation the iDry Aqua Lite stand bag from Big Max, as the name suggests, is completely waterproof. Seam sealed and even with waterproof zips, the iDry Aqua Lite will keep golfer’s gear dry whatever the British weather can throw at it. Complete with a 14 way divider top, seven pockets and glove, towel and umbrella holders the iDry Aqua Lite delivers everything a modern golfer could want from a golf bag. Big Max has developed materials for the construction of the bag that brings the total weight in at just under 3kg. This makes the iDry Aqua Lite one of the lightest stand bags on the market. Big Max Dri-Lite Cart Bag

The course is set in 240 acres of beautiful parkland in the Essex countryside. The club has hosted the R & A Regional Open Qualifier for the last 5 years. MIDWEEK OFFER 18 HOLES PLUS ONE ITEM OF YOUR CHOICE FROM THE AVAILABLE MENU £32.50 This offer is available after 10.00 a.m only and valid until June 12th. Tee times must be booked between 2 and 7 days in advance and are subject to availability. Call the pro shop on 01708 688 333 and quote EG05/14 Maximum 8 persons per booking

With more storage and less weight, the Dri-Lite Cart bag from Big Max follows hot on the heels of its award winning cousin. Nine large pockets, each with waterproof zips provide bags of bone dry storage in this waterproof stand bag. A 14 way divider top provides neat separation for every club while towel, glove, umbrella, tee and pencil and scorecard holders keep everything else in easily accessible place. And with Big Max’s latest waterproof material innovations, the Dri-Lite Cart bag weighs in at an incredible 2.35kg making it a breeze to get from car boot to trolley www.bigmaxgolf.com - 31 -

Twilight offer [after 3.00pm] until June 12th, £15.00 per person [golf only] Subject to availability Call pro shop 01708 688 333 Abridge Golf Club RM4 1ST


Future Golfing Events & Competitions 02/05/2014 Seniors Pairs Open @ Essex Golf & Country Club £64 per pair, Betterball - handicap limit 28 www.theessexgolfandcountryclub.com 02/05/2014 Seniors Pairs Open @ Gosfield Lake Golf Club £54 per pair Sally Rudkin 01787 474 747 gosfieldlakegc@btconnect.com www.gosfield-lake-golf-club.co.uk 02/05/2014 'Threadgill Trophy' Gents Individual Open @ Orsett Golf Club. 36 Hole Individual Medal £45. Includes coffee on arrival, Ploughman's lunch and evening buffet. Richard Herring 01375 891352 www.orsettgolfclub.com 12/05/2014 Ladies Team Open @ Playgolf Colchester (Lexden Wood) Golf Club. £90 per team (3). Includes tea/coffee & croissant on arrival, and 2-course meal. Mrs Pauline Coxon 01206 843 333 colchester@playgolfworld.com www.playgolfcolchester.com 12/05/2014 Golf Plus Cruise Pairs Open @ Bentley Golf Club £79 per pair includes tea/coffee & a bar meal 0844 493 8646 info@golfpluscruise.com www.golfpluscruise.com 13/05/2014 Ladies Pairs Open @ North Weald Golf Club. 4BBB £60 per pair. Strawberries & Cream on the 10th hole and a Two Course Buffet Lunch. Tim Lloyd-Skinner 01992 522 118 www.northwealdgolfclub.co.uk 14/05/2014 Essex PGA Open Championship @ Toot Hill Golf Club essexpga@googlemail.com www.essexpga.com 15/05/2014 Essex PGA Pro AM @ Toot Hill Golf Club essexpga@googlemail.com www.essexpga.com 15/05/2014 Ladies Open @ Bentley Golf Club 18 hole 4 ball , full handicap £140 per team, Tea Coffee & Danish on arrival – refreshments – 2 course meal Alex Holmes 01277 373 179 alexholmes@bentleygolfclub.com www.bentleygolfclub.com 23/05/2014 Mixed Pairs Open @ Gosfield Lake Golf Course £54 per pair Sally Rudkin 01787 474 747 gosfieldlakegc@btconnect.com www.gosfield-lake-golf-club.co.uk 27/05/2014 'European Junior Golf Tour' Junior Open Age Limit 12 to 17 years at 1st April '14 Entry Fee £45 Includes meal Roger Shutt 01708 688 396 info@abridgegolf.com www.abridgegolf.com 28/05/2014 Lee Westwood Golf Tour @ Stoke by Nayland Golf Club £25 per person www.leewestwoodgolftour.com 01/06/2014 Mixed Pairs Open @ Saffron Walden Golf Club. 4-Ball Betterball Stableford £TBC per couple. Includes halfway house and 2-course carvery lunch. 01799 522786 office@swgc.com www.swgc.com 05/06/2014 Havens Charity Golf Day @ Woolston Manor Golf Club £60 per person/£240 for a four ball includes breakfast, 18 holes and evening meal Laura Boenke 020 8506 3637 events@havenhouse.org.uk www.havenhouse.org.uk 10/06/2014 Charity Ladies Team Open @ Saffron Walden Golf Club. Stableford - best 3 scores* £140 per team (4). Includes evening buffet & refreshments at the halfway house. Mrs Marjory Smith 01799 522 786 office@swgc.com www.swgc.com 11/06/2014 Gents Senior Pairs Open @ Colne Valley Golf Club. 4-Ball Betterball Stableford. Age 55+ £65 per pair. Includes coffee & savouries on arrival and carvery meal after golf. Sharon Bayly 01787 224 343 info@colnevalleygolfclub.co.uk www.colnevalleygolfclub.co.uk 11/06/2014 Centenary Cup @ Rochford Hundred Golf Club-36 Hole Individual Medal Open £45 per person, handicap limit 18 Ivor Finer 01702 544 302 www.rochfordhundredgolfclub.co.uk 16/06/2014 Ladies Team Open @ Burnham on Crouch Golf Club £90 per team (3) Includes coffee & biscuits on arrival and 2 course meal after golf. Mrs Liz Tolhurst 01621 782 282 office@burnhamgolfclub.co.uk www.burnhamgolfclub.co.uk 17/06/2014 Ladies Team Open @ Stoke by Nayland Golf Club. Am-Am - best 2 scores £136 per team (4). Includes coffee on arrival, snack, Pimms on the terrace & evening meal. Mrs Barbara Jones 01473 827 920 bmjones1950@gmail.com www.stokebynayland.com 18/06/2014 Gents Seniors Individual Open @ Orsett Golf Club £30 per person Includes coffee & bacon roll on arrival and 3-course carvery lunch. 01375 891352 enquiries@orsettgolfclub.co.uk www.orsettgolfclub.com 20/06/2014 Chigwell Mixed Open 4BBB stableford £70 per pair Heather Olliffe 0208 502 3617 heatherolliffe@hotmail.com www.chigwellgolfclub.co.uk 20/06/2014 Gents Individual Open @ West Essex Golf Club £35 per person, 36 Hole Individual Scratch Medal. Handicap limit 6. Emma Clifford www.westessexgolfclub.co.uk 24/06/2014 Chigwell Ladies Open Team of 4, 3 scores counting £144 per team includes Coffee & Bacon roll on arrival and 2 course lunch. Heather Olliffe 0208 502 3617 heatherolliffe@hotmail.com www.chigwellgolfclub.co.uk 25/06/2014 Mixed Pairs Open @ Braintree Golf Club 9 Holes Betterball (AM). 18 holes Greensome Stableford (PM). £66 per couple Includes lunch & evening meal. Roger Wright 01376 346 079 rogerwright@braintreegolfclub.co.uk www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk 26/06/2014 Ladies Team Open @ Chelmsford Golf Club. Team of 4 £120 per team (4) Includes bacon roll on arrival and buffet lunch. Iain Wallace 01245 256483 www.chelmsfordgc.co.uk 30/06/2014 Shotsaver Drive to Turkey @ Warley Park Golf Club £50 per pair 01928 579 579 www.snooper.co.uk

Attention! Club Secretaries and Competition Organisers: Please forward any info on Future Open Competitions, Golf related Events or Charity days at Essex Golf Clubs to info@essexgolfer.com Visit our live up to date events page at www.essexgolfer.com

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Open Competitions at Prince’s 2014 27 holes Championship links

4 May – 30 July – 1 August – 3-8 August – 13 & 14 Sept – 7 October –

Men’s 36 hole Open (Scratch & H’cap) Junior Open Ladies Open OPEN WEEK Mixed Weekend Men’s Seniors Open

Overnight packages available at the Lodge at Prince’s

BOOK NOW: T: +44 (0) 1304 611118 E: office@princesgolfclub.co.uk W: www.princesgolfclub.co.uk Prince’s Golf Club, Sandwich Bay, Sandwich, Kent CT13 9QB

/princesgolfclub @Princesgolfclub


Bennett’s Birdies FREE coaching

for Disabled Golfers Beginners welcome Friday 9th May & Saturday 10th May

Sarah Bennett PGA Head Teaching Professional from Three Rivers Golf Club has already delivered a series of successful starter coaching sessions for over 25 ladies since early March this year with the number in excess of 100 over the past 4 years.

Rivenhall Oaks Golf Centre would like to welcome any School, Organisation or person who is disabled to contact us and take part in some free golf tuition. We are running some taster sessions for disabled people to TRY GOLF. Rivenhall Oaks Golf Centre is looking to become a Centre of Excellence for Disabled Golf. If anyone you know would be interested know more about Disabled Golf or would like to play Golf please contact Bill Chapman on 01376 510 222 PGA Professional.

Sarah has set a progressive pathway for new players and has seen steady growth year on year which has seen many of the ladies playing on a regular basis. “The game has never been more accessible as it is right now and I am fortunate that Three Rivers Golf & country Club possess the perfect combination of facilities for both the new and more experienced player, making it the ideal centre for those wishing to get into golf”. I am fortunate to be able to impart my 25 years of golfing knowledge to prospective players and imparting first-hand experience of my previous encounters starting at girls golf right through the Amateur ranks,Tournament and Professional level, taking into account the current trends”. I will be continuing my offering to both men and ladies with additional events during May as I will be participating in the National Golf Month, information on these coaching sessions can be discussed by contacting me directly E: SarahbennettGolf@gmil.com - 34 -


DRESSED TO

Dis t ress We’re looking to uncover some of the worst dressed golfers in Essex. Please email us your contenders to

info@essexgolfer.com

18

beautiful holes of golf

Set in over 300 acres of undulating parkland, with stunning views of the Essex countryside.

Societies welcome (Monday - Friday)

Steve Roberts from The Rayleigh Club.

Additional par 3 practice course Limited membership available

Channels, Pratts Farm Lane East Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PT T: 01245 440 005 E: info@channelsce.co.uk

Gordon Goldie from Chingford Golf Range Miguel Ángel Jiménez lookalike

www.cliffordsestate.co.uk - 35 -


Essex clubs back National Golf Month Clubs across Essex are backing National Golf Month with great value activities to support the drive to get more people playing the game. National Golf Month will be held across the UK in May and Essex clubs will offer a wide range of opportunities to attract beginners and returners to the sport, including beginner courses with PGA professionals. Full details about Essex activities, as well as all the other opportunities across England, are available on the Get into golf website www.getintogolf.org/map Get into golf is a campaign which aims to inspire more adults in England to take up the sport, with low-cost structured coaching with PGA professionals. Helen Tarttelin, the Essex County Development Officer, said: “We’re very excited about National Golf Month event because Essex has so much to offer beginners and returners to golf. Our golf clubs and driving ranges are passionate about encouraging people to get into golf.

“Golf is a great game for everyone who enjoys friendship, fresh air and exercise. It can bring impressive health and wellbeing benefits and it’s the perfect sport for bringing people together. There’s never been a better time to start.” National Golf Month is a major campaign to offer beginners and 100,000 lapsed golfers opportunities to try the game. It’s being driven by the Bauer Media Group and the British Golf Industry Association (BGIA) and is supported by England Golf through the Get into golf campaign, which is run by the national network of County Golf Partnerships. For further information please contact: Helen Tarttelin County Development Officer helen@essexgolfpartnership.com 07971 097976 www.essexgolfpartnership.com

ubs The Essex cl e: d u cl in involved Harlow Canons Brook, Bank Station ar ne on City Golf, Lond rls Colne Colne Valley, Ea , Stock rk Crondon Pa Dagenham , th Crowlands Hea sted Elsenham, Stan n to Frin uthend Garon Park, So inham Ra e, Ingrebourn cton la C , rn Millers Ba ld ea W North Witham Rivenhall Oaks, ngford hi C x, West Esse - 36 -


Essex County News by Ben Crew, Press Officer, Essex Golf Union Email: crew_ben@hotmail.com Tel: 07763 840 823 www.essexgolfunion.org

Spring is now upon us and the EGU’s fixture calendar is in full swing with plenty to report from both on and off the course.

The Keating Trophy Our first Order of Merit event of the year didn’t disappoint. A starting field of seventy two elite County amateur golfers took part in the qualifying rounds at Woolston Manor Golf Club on Saturday 5th April, topped by Andy May of Boyce Hill Golf Club’s one under par finishing total. May and the other top fifteen qualifiers returned with purpose the following weekend for the final four match play knock-out rounds and when the semi-finals saw Bailee Curran (Warley Park) beat Jack Phillips (Bentley) and Billy Deville (Bentley, pictured) beat Mitchel Sarling (Rochford Hundred)

Sunday’s final showdown was set. After sixteen holes of match play drama with both players matching blow for blow what the other produced, Billy Deville secured the Keating Trophy’s place on his shelf with a 4&2 victory announced with rapturous applause from the following gallery. Thanks must go to Woolston Manor for kindly allowing the EGU use of their course and providing it in such good condition for this time of year, to all of the rules officials who, without their early starts and late finishes, the event would not function and to all competitors that played in the competition.

Monthly Fixtures & Events Round-Up

Six other matches have taken place in the last month involving our County sides.The yearly meet pitching the County men’s, U18’s and Essex Professionals against each other took place on an overcast chilly Frinton course and saw the Professionals end the day with 19 out of 31 points, followed by the U18’s with 16 and the men’s side with 10. Four days later saw the U16’s side begin their 2014 campaign with a landslide 13-2 victory against Bedfordshire at Theydon Bois Golf Club, a win which David Brooks and his team take a good deal of satisfaction from and saw many new team members make the most of their playing opportunities.

It was with a great deal of anticipation that the U14 Junior Golf Tour, sponsored by the Norman Garon Trust, kicked off at Gosfield Lake on 9th April. With an atmosphere of purposeful endeavour in the air prizes were awarded for U14 and U13 competitors in both Scratch and Handicap categories. Overall the day was topped by Cai James (Colchester) with a fantastic five over par round of 76, good enough to secure the U14 Scratch winning score. Playing off 14 Harry Robson (Orsett) scored a great net 68 to take the Handicap section for the day. In the U13’s section it was U12 players that stole the limelight with Ralph Carroll (Chelmsford) scoring a net 71 for the top Handicap score and George Earle (Upminster) carding the winning Scratch score with a gross 83. In the girls section Ashley Chalmers (Thorndon Park) took the Handicap low score with a net 73 whilst Harriet Lynch (Thorndon Park) scored a gross 83 to round off the day and post the winning Scratch score. The hugely successful annual Mighty Masters took place on 10th April at Epping Golf Club and was

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Please turn over


Essex County News by Ben Crew, Press Officer, Essex Golf Union Email: crew_ben@hotmail.com Tel: 07763 840 823 www.essexgolfunion.org

blessed with good weather and a turnout of well over seventy children. Families travelled from as far as Kent and Guildford to be involved with the event Neil Sjoberg and Epping GC have worked so hard to build with the eventual winner on the day, eight year old Max Winsor, travelling nearly thirty-five miles to take part. On the same day the County U16/18 side took on Suffolk at Toot Hill Golf Club, a fairly one sided fixture which saw a County winning margin of 13 ½ - 4 ½ and provided a great boost of confidence for both the U16/18’s before their second fixture of the month against current Chestnut Trophy holders Hertfordshire at East Herts Golf Club four days later.

Despite such high County confidence going into the match Hertfordshire proved a true test and for only the second time in the history of this Trophy the match was halved, 9 points to 9. The final fixture of April saw our U18’s vs Kent & Middlesex at West Essex. With the Triangular Trophy up for grabs the County side took the bull by the horns and stormed to a final victory of 38 points to Kent’s 27 and Middlesex’s 25, taking back the trophy from Kent. Elsewhere this month the Essex Seniors, Norman Plum, Leslie Wood and Essex Youth Shield all got underway with their round 1 fixtures. For more in depth reports on all County fixtures please visit the EGU website.

Recognition for one of our own It gives me great pleasure to report that after over 19 years hard work within County Golf, Keith Mitchell (Rochford Hundred), the EGU’s Chairman of U14 Development, has been recognised as one of England Golf’s top volunteers and presented with the 2014 England Golf Men’s Lifetime Achievement Award at an annual gala dinner. “This is not just an award for me but for the backing my club and County have given me in establishing, what I consider to be, one of the best County coaching programmes in the country. I get immense satisfaction from seeing youngsters progress and move through the game of golf and of all things I

look forward to, the integration of boys and girls golf coaching is something I would wish to see”. The award, which sparkles on a shelf but as Keith admits “is an obvious candidate to be missed in the weekly dusting programme”, is homage to, in the words of County President John Peters, Keith’s “outstanding commitment and enthusiasm in respect of junior golf over a sustained period, his knowledge of golf in general and junior golf in particular, coupled with his ability to make a difference”. Speaking after the award Keith was quick to highlight the hard work of others in neighbouring counties, doing the same job as him, that are equally deserved of such an accolade – an example of why when asked for three words to describe the man, President John Peters responded: “Committed. Inspirational. Respected”.

Anniversaries to be proud of The start of the 2014 golfing season sees two County golf clubs celebrate notable anniversaries. Gosfield Lake, the spiritual home for our Boys Foursomes Championships, celebrates its 25th anniversary whilst Crondon Park, host to this years Faldo Wedge competition on 30th May and Thornton Cup & Leslie Wood plate finals in October, celebrates its 20th anniversary. The Essex Golf Union runs over 130 events each

year and would like to thank both clubs for their support and close association through the years, without clubs like Gosfield Lake and Crondon Park it would not be possible to hold such events which are very much part of the spectrum of county golf. Congratulations to both on achieving their milestone anniversaries and long may their longevity continue.

For up-to-date County golf news and forthcoming fixtures please visit the EGU website www.essexgolfunion.org, find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/pages/Essex-Golf-Union/191777754204548 or follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/EssexGolfUnion - 38 -


Burnham-on-Crouch Golf Club

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Thorpeness Festival of Golf 28-31 July 2014 A brand new 4 day event played on the glorious Suffolk coast. Daily competitions, coaching clinics with European Tour coach Bill Ferguson & Thorpeness PGA Pro Frank Hill; jaw-dropping show by World Golf Trick-Shot Champion Geoff Swain, and a gala prize-giving dinner at Thorpeness Country Club.

For more information call 01728 454926 or email proshop@thorpeness.co.uk www.thorpeness.co.uk

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Thorpeness To Host Britain’s Newest Festival Of Golf Thorpeness Hotel and Golf Club, Suffolk’s leading play and stay golf destination, has announced it will host Britain’s newest festival of golf in July. The Thorpeness Festival of Golf will be played over its classic James Braid designed heathland course on Suffolk’s Heritage Coast from July 2831. It will be the first dedicated golf festival ever held in East Anglia. The festival features four days of competitions, a coaching clinic with former European Tour coach Bill Ferguson, an exhibition by Geoff Swain – the current World Golf Trick-Shot Champion – evening entertainment and a prize giving gala dinner at nearby Thorpeness Country Club. Paul Clouting, hotel director at Thorpeness Hotel and Golf Club, said: “Thorpeness is an iconic holiday village with a ‘House in the Clouds,’ famous literary connections and a remarkable story to tell. It is also home to one of the best golf courses and golf hotels in Southern and Eastern England. Our inaugural Thorpeness Festival of Golf is a perfect opportunity to combine a British coastal holiday with golf at a great course and evenings packed full of fun and entertainment.” Golfers are able to book accommodation for the festival at Thorpeness’ 36-bedroom golf hotel, where you can walk from a bedroom to the first tee in under a minute. The course is overlooked by Suffolk’s ‘House in the Clouds,’ a water tower on stilts converted into a private residence, and one of the stranger sights to be seen behind an 18th green.

The par 70 heathland layout winds through pine, gorse, silver birch trees and heather and is a riot of colour and birdsong during the summer. It regularly hosts national amateur events, including the English Seniors Championship and regional and national PGA events, including the PGA Super 60’s tournament. Golfers will compete across several different formats, from stableford to greensomes, making the event ideal for golfing couples, individuals or large golf groups or societies. Entry to the festival includes a coaching clinic with Bill Ferguson – the long-time coach of former Ryder Cup Captain and eight-time European Tour Order of Merit winner Colin Montgomerie. During the festival, golfers can raise funds for local charities by trying to hit a golf ball into a rowing boat anchored in the nearby Thorpeness Meare, a manmade boating lake which inspired author J.M Barrie to write his famous children’s book ‘Peter Pan.’ World Golf Trick-shot champion Geoff Swain will also perform his ‘Golf Unplugged’ show featuring bizarre golfing trick shots like hitting balls while riding a unicycle, using giant golf clubs and hitting balls out of mid-air. Swain will also be an after dinner speaker at the festival’s closing gala dinner. The festival culminates with a prize giving gala dinner at the Thorpeness Country Club, a 1920’s style pavilion with a magnificent boardwalk, high beamed ceilings, wood panelled floors and sea views.

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The Notleys Golf Club

Black Notley, Essex 01376 329 328

Summer society offer

Coffee & bacon roll, 27 holes of golf, ham egg & chips: £22 weekdays or £27.75 weekends

18 holes of Golf including bacon roll and coffee £15 – midweek excluding bank holidays. Call us for the best value membership prices in Essex or see our website (www.notleysgolfclub.co.uk)

7am - 1pm – £15 per rround ound 1pm - 4pm – £12 per rround ound aft er 4pm – £9 per rround ound after DON’T FORGET Weekend green fees are £18 per round, that’s £1 a hole, with morning tee times available.

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Amber Heath BSc (Hons) ION, ITEC Diploma in Nutrition and Diet Theory. Amber is a fully qualified Nutritionist working for Bodysense UK Ltd. Amber also works with England Golf and Essex County Cricket Club, with over 15 years’ experience in both Nutrition to aid Sports Performance, and private clients wishing to improve health and wellbeing through Nutritional Management. Tel: 07801 813 687 / 01245 381 181 www.bodysenseukltd.co.uk

Food for Thought

We often hear of the benefits of a healthy diet, but how can we sift through the bewildering range of low fat, high fibre, meat free, gluten free and all the other highly labelled foods to make our diet better? Here is some advice:Benefits of healthy eating

Drinking water

• You will feel more energised;

• Your senses will improve: hearing, smell, taste, circulation; • You will be more able to concentrate throughout the day; • Your immune system will work more efficiently and you will be able to fight off infections more effectively; • You will look better – your skin will improve, you will age more gracefully; • Your weight will naturally settle at it’s optimum, without the need for dieting;

Drinking more water is the single most important change you can make to your health, as water helps stimulate thyroid function metabolism, and flushes out the toxins in your body. You should aim to drink at least a litre of filtered or bottled water every day. If you really don’t like water, then diluted fruit juices and herbal teas can be an alternative. BUT tea and coffee are not. Tea, coffee and many soft drinks do not help hydrate the body – in fact they are counterproductive as they actively dehydrate you. If you can’t cut these out completely you need to drink extra water to compensate.

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Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and minerals are an essential part of our diet and are naturally obtained from the foods that we eat. However, it is often very difficult – especially for professional golfers – to obtain all the required vitamins and minerals from their diet alone. This is where supplements come in. These can be taken to balance your body’s needs and make up for any shortfalls in your diets. However, do make sure you read the labels carefully, particularly if you are pregnant or have any medical condition.

TOP SUPPLEMENTS

• Magnesium. This is vital for joint function, heart and lungs and helps prevent things symtons of asthma and gut problems. Find it in nuts, green leafy vegetables and wholemeal bread. • Essential fatty acids. These are good for the heart, the circulation, cartilage support and the joints. Eat oily fish, such as tuna, salmon, pilchards, sardines, or take a good supplement. Rather than cod liver oil, I recommend a multifish oil OMEGA 3/6/9 oils which provides a more balanced variety. • B vitamins. Modern life is very stressful and B group vitamins are essential for enabling us to cope. Common signs of having a B vitamin deficiency are bad circulation, feeling unusually tired and having difficulty concentrating. • Garlic.This thins the blood and is very good for the heart and circulation.

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• In winter take Echinacea for a short sharp burst of two week – this is great for the immune system. • Ginseng. Korean ginseng for men and Siberian ginseng for women are very good for giving you more energy. A great pick me up. • Milk Thistle.This is fantastic for flushing out your liver if you’ve been over indulging – the perfect after-tonic.

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Mighty Master Rochford Cadet Epping Golf Club 10th April 2014 I was in bed early the night before the Mighty Masters Golf competition. I was hoping that the weather was better than last year, when it was snow blizzards. Luckily the morning was a bright sunny day, and I was excited about playing the Mighty Masters 12 and under Competition at Epping Golf Club. As always my Dad took me and we set off early so that I could do a proper warm up and have a practice. When we arrived, there were lots of people getting the event organised. The first thing I wanted was fuel for the day ... a bacon sandwich! After breakfast, I headed to the practice green to do some chipping practice. More and more children were arriving and things got busy. I spent some more time on the range, having a good warm up.

quite a hilly course with lots of water and tricky greens. I started off well with a 5 on a Par 4. Then I managed the next 5 holes with just one over on each hole. The seventh hole I up and down from off the green to get a Par. (par 3). I followed this with another 1 over and on the final hole my Dad told me to keep it well away from the water, so I did, but it left me a very long putt. This was my worst hole as I scored a 6 (double bogey). But I was still very pleased with my gross 43 score. The Par for this 9 hole course is 34. I had to wait about an hour for the presentation of prize winners. I was very surprised but very pleased when they called out my name, with a winning score of 43. I couldn’t believe I had won. I went up to collect a very big trophy and some great prizes. A signed cap from a Tour player who won the Kenyan Open 2014 and a signed glove from Tom Lewis a European Tour player. These I will treasure. I also won a putting mat and some golf balls.

I went to enter my name, I was put in a grouping with three 9 year old boys, and we were going to play the 9 hole event. I saw a couple of boys I had seen before but I wasn’t in their grouping. We started off just after lunch and I felt a bit nervous.

The most nervous part of the day was when I had collected my trophy and I was asked to say a few words to everyone. I didn’t know what to say other than Thank you. It was my best golf day ever. Max Winsor Aged 8

Epping Golf course is - 46 -


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The Jubilee Cup

Update from Jubilee Cup Committee, sponsored by Seabrook Warehousing, and reported by Chairman Phil Redhead www.jubileecup.com/matches2014/Draw1.htm and drilling down further you can even see how badly I was beaten, at home, by Jeremy Burrows from Thorpe Hall at the following link! www.jubileecup.com/matches2014/nottho2.htm

Bentley GC 2013 Winners.

The 2014 Season is now fully under way, with some great matches being played and results being seen. At of time of writing, all Round 1 matches of the League phase of the competition have completed, with all Round Two results due near to the time of Essex Golfer being published. What is more, Burnham on Crouch and The Rayleigh have even progressed their Round Three match, resulting in a win for Burnham. Full results have been posted to the Jubilee Cup website, and remember, on the website, you can drill down to individual singles or pairs match result for any of the games. For instance, all Round 1 matches are visible here

Still very very early stages but teams like Warley Park and Five Lakes have started impressively with two wins out of two played. Indeed, the Order of Merit table is also moving well with Gary Marshall from The Rayleigh leading the singles, and Peter Dunnett/Dave Parkes from Five Lakes leading the pairs league. Please keep all your comments coming either directly to myself, or via the comments box on the results sheets when you send back to Neil Mitchell. Check out the website for full details about the Jubilee Cup Competition: www.jubileecup.com including full Competition Rules (such as player qualification details), and the details of the League composition, competition draw, plus match completion dates. The 2014 Rules can be accessed directly from the Internet at www.jubileecup.com/matches2014/rules2014.pdf

1st Round Matches played by 13th April 2014 Div A Div A Div A Div B Div B Div B Div C Div C Div D Div D Div E Div E Div F Div F Div G Div G Div H Div H

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Mens 36 Holes – 4BBB Stableford Competition Handicap Limit: 24 - Stroke Allowance: ¾ Entry Fee £72.00 per pair Includes Tea/Coffee On Arrival, Buffet Lunch & Evening Meal. Prizes awarded to CDH active handicap holders only Entry Forms From: enquiries@warrengolfclub.co.uk

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Matt Stables is a PGA Advanced Professional based at North Weald Golf Club near Epping. Matt played collegiate golf in the USA and today competes in regional and national pro tournaments. As a teacher, Matt is involved with the Essex County Academy Program and is qualified in club making, golf fitness and the mental side of golf. As a golf coach, Matt believes in good fundamentals, including an on plane swing, an understanding of each individual’s strengths and weaknesses, plus an effective short game. Golf tuition is available from Matt call 01992 522 118 mobile 07808 003 619, or www.mattstablesgolf.com

How to Practice

an d Many golfers do not make the most of their practice time and fail to understand why they cannot take their improvements from the driving range to the golf course.The reason for this is practicing on the driving range does not prepare you for the golf course.When you go to the range and hit a bucket of balls at the same target with the same clubs this is totally different from the course, you will rarely hit the same club twice in a row, on the range you could hit fifty balls with the same club. Decide How much time you have to practice – Most people do not practice and stay at the course for 8 hours a day. Most people could reasonably spend 60 to 90 minutes practicing 3 times a month. If you have a plan of how to practice, this can still be enough time to improve your game. Make Practice more like you play – The aim of practice is to improve your scores so aim to recreate how you would normally play. Here are some ideas about how you can do that. Hit to different targets – When you are on the range try changing targets on each shot, many people only hit where the matt is pointing you. However on the course what happens is that you get lazy and aim where the line of the tee aims you. But often this points where you don’t want to go causing you to hit into the trouble. - 50 -


Change clubs each shot – The same as when you are playing try changing clubs on each shot. You could play an imaginary round on the range or even simulate a hole that you have problems with, so you will develop confidence next time you are in that situation. On the Chipping green play Par 18 – This is where you play 9 holes around the chipping green with each hole being a par 2.You will need only one ball and you will have a score to demonstrate how well you have played. This will give you a good indication about how good your short game is and you will start to. Get into the habit of getting up and down. Try to give yourself 3 easy shots, 3 medium and 3 hard

shots. This is a great game to play against a friend. On the course play best ball – Be sure that the course is quiet and this is a great time to play by you.You will play 9 holes and on each shot you can play 2 balls so you can choose the best shot. From then on you play 2 balls on each shot until you hole out. So if you play a bad shot or make a wrong decision you will be able to learn from it and make an adjustment on the second shot, something you do not get the opportunity during normal play. If you hit a great shot you don’t have to hit another. But, it will help you to develop your confidence and as you get better you may find you don’t need to hit the second ball as much. Keep track of your score doing this.

Now SkyPro Grooves Your Putts Too Now, golfers who own SkyCaddie’s game-changing SkyPro swing analyser can groove their putting stroke too, with the announcement that SkyGolf®, maker of SkyCaddie® the most trusted1 Rangefinder in Golf, has launched a revised SkyPro® App for spring 2014, with a new Putting Analysis feature and redesigned user interface. And for the first time iPad owners also get their own version of the SkyPro App, with a new iPadnative version now available to download for Apple’s world-beating tablet. The new Putting Analysis feature on the SkyPro App is a free additional feature which enables golfers to perfect their putting stroke and lower their scores immediately by providing instant feedback about club face position, stroke length, tempo and much more. The SkyPro is about the

size of a flash drive, and weighs less than 30g. It attaches easily to the shaft of any golf club just below the grip making it v i r t u a l l y undetectable. Thousands of critical data points about a golfer's swing path, club head speed, swing plane, club face rotation, shaft angles and much more are instantly sent via Bluetooth to a FREE app on their smartphone to view their swing from address back to impact from any angle in true 3D high-definition. www.skygolf.com www.skycaddie.com www.golfskypro.com www.swinglabs.com

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GOLF TIPS FOR AROUND THE COURSE As every golfer knows, if the ball doesn’t land on the fairway your problems are only just beginning. Your ball could be on a slope, in tall grass or bushes, on the lip of a bunker, on stony ground etc. etc In his new compact guide, best-selling author Yves Ton-That (“Golf Rules Quick Reference”, more than 1 million copies sold) gives the reader tips for every seemingly hopeless situation – short and concise, illustrated and easy-to-understand. Thanks to the structure with sections from tee to green, golfers can find the information they need in an instant. A quick fix guide for eliminating mistakes makes the practical ring-bound water-repellent booklet the ideal accompaniment on the course. The tips are based on many years of competition experience by leading golf professionals. We’d be willing to bet that “Golf Trouble Shots and Quick Fix Guide” will help you save a number of strokes on your next round.

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www.ernestdoe.com


Its FREE to advertise anything in Golf Mart, Tel: 01621 815 577 E-Mail:- info@essexgolfer.com Visit our live up to date golf mart page at www.essexgolfer.com FOR SALE: Stowamatic electric golf trolley, complete with nearly new battery and charger, £70 ono, Tel: 01245 224454. FOR SALE: 1000 assorted Golf Balls £180. Tel: 0208 4919491. FOR SALE:Ladies Graphite Golf Clubs. Brand new R/H Benross 3,5,7 woods. Brand new Hippo driver. Full set of used irons s/w – 3 irons plus putter & ball retriever. Brand new Titliest golf bag. Complete & ready to play. £100. Tel: 01245 697724 or 07857 327621. FOR SALE: Wilson Fat Shaft complete set. Driver, 3,4,5 woods, 3-sw right handed regular shaft. Nike carry bag.Good condition £175 ono. Tel: Colin. Hornchurch 01708 781727. 07982 757213. FOR SALE:MD Superstrong ST3g irons. 4 to PW. Regular graphite shafts. 4 and 5 irons unused,still wrapped. £150. Tel: 07505 842959 Leigh on Sea FOR SALE:Rechargeable MP 20 – 12 Battery Ultramax 12v 208AH, £30 Tel: Brentwood 01277 212541. FOR SALE: Mizuno and Taylor Made golf bags 6 kinds.Wilson irons, Wood various makes 30 kinds, for more information call. Tel: 01277 577069 FOR SALE: Set of Callaway X12 irons RH 3-SW.VGC. £150. Tel 01375 678660. Stanford-le-Hope.

FOR SALE: Ping G15 driver 460cc 10.5deg reg shaft £85, Mizuno Mx700 10.5deg reg alida nvs shaft £80, Taylormade R5 draw dual 10.5deg reg shaft £55, 3 Woods,Taylormade burner (black head) 15deg reg shaft £40, Macgregor mactec nvg2 reg shaft £30, 5 wood Taylomade dual draw reg shaft £40, Mizuno Mx23 3 to pw steel shaft excellent condition £120, Mizuno fli hi driving iron 18 deg steel shaft £30, Mizuno fli hi driving iron 21 deg reg graphite shaft £30, Ben sayers M8 rescue 17 deg reg shaft £15, ALL CLUBS RIGHT HANDED AND ALL WOODS HAVE ORIGINAL HEAD COVERS. Tel: Jeff 07714 087477 or jeffsayer@blueyonder.co.uk. FOR SALE: Rechargeable MP 20 – 12 Battery Ultramax 12v 208AH £30 Tel: Brentwood 01277 212541. FOR SALE: Left handed Cleveland HiBore MonsterXLS Driver 10.5 degrees and Cobra Baffler T rail 3 wood 16 degrees. Both virtually as new £50 each. Tel: 01277 220511 Shenfield. FOR SALE: Mocad MK 2 Electric trolley VGC £40 Tel: 01268 457954 Wickford. FOR SALE:Adams Idea RH graphite irons 3-SW with bag and woods £70. Dunlop irons RH 3SW with bag and woods £45. LADIES Powerbilt RH graphite irons 3-SW with bag and woods £50. Tel: 01621 874895. - 54 -

FOR SALE: Ladies right hand PING EYE irons 3-SW plus some woods (not PING). £70 Tel: 01708 757612 Romford. FOR SALE: Callaway Trolley Bag. Model Euro Chev. Navy/White.14 dividers,carrystrap and cover. Discounted cost £91 but as an unwanted gift £45. Tel: 01702 465104. Southend. FOR SALE: Complete set Callaway Big Bertha Irons 4-9, PW, SW - graphite Light Flex Shaft, Callaway X tour 60 degree wedge-r shaft -rusted appearance £150. Nike Machspeed SQ Driver, STR8 Fit- HL – R flex Graphite shaft – Headcover and adjustment tool included £80. Taylor Made RBZ 3(15degree) & 5(19degree) woods - Graphite shafts, Flex M – very good condition £70 each or £120 pair. Tel: 01268 697659. FOR SALE: Nicklaus RH fast back dual point driver, 10.6 degree loft, 460cc head size, fujikura s-flex graphite shaft , with head cover, scratches on sole, £15. Also Ping RH K15 3 (16 degree) fairway metal, TFC graphite shaft, with head cover, hardly used £30. And Donnay Evolution complete RH set (8 irons 3 to SW, titanium driver and 3 & 5 fairway metals), graphite shafts, in carry bag. We'll used, good beginner's set. £35 the lot. Tel: 07500 806828 Rayleigh. Email djhart@sky.com


ALL ROADS LEAD TO MOROCCO FOR LEADING AMATEUR EVENT

The HowDidiDo Matchplay Championship – one of the UK and Ireland’s leading amateur events for more than 20 years – is to have a new, exotic destination for its grand final, and will, henceforth, be known as the Morocco Matchplay, powered by HowDidiDo. The grand final – the culmination of four competitions running throughout 2014: singles, pairs, mixed pairs and senior pairs – will now be played in the historic and spectacular country from February 8-14, 2015, with a total of 32 golfers, from across the UK and Ireland, fighting it out for the titles. Those 32 lucky – and determined – golfers will have battled their way through a minimum of four local contests and a regional final, in October, to earn the right to head to Morocco and they will each receive complimentary flights, six nights’ luxury accommodation and five rounds of championship golf on fabulous courses, after the tournament received the full support of the Moroccan National Tourist Office. The Moroccan National Tourist Office’s director for UK and Ireland, Amine Boughaleb, said: “It is fitting that in the 100th year of golf in Morocco we have secured the grand final of one of the UK and Ireland’s biggest amateur events for club golfers. We had seen and heard a lot about the Matchplay Championship and are looking forward to welcoming the 32 finalists to our beautiful and inspiring country and working alongside HowDidiDo. “We have a tremendous golf heritage dating back to 1914 when the first course opened in Tangier, designed by architects Cotton Pennick. And now, a century later, we have world-class courses in a

variety of terrains and locations: from the foot of the Atlas Mountains to coastal courses or city scenes. We are proud to be the new home of the Morocco Matchplay, powered by HowDidiDo.” “Morocco has 29 golf courses to be enjoyed in year-round sunshine – plus 11 more under construction – and, with flight times of less than three-and-a-half hours from the UK and Ireland, it is a hugely attractive alternative to the more traditional golf destinations of Europe.” Barry Dyett, managing director of HowDidiDo Media, added: “The opportunity to play golf in Morocco in the grand final is a tremendous opportunity for the thousands of golfers who enter the competition annually – and to have the support of the Moroccan National Tourist Office is a great fillip for the event. “We’d like to thank the Moroccan National Tourist Office for its patronage and look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship.” The competitions are open to both men and women, while seniors need to be aged 50 or over on May 26, 2014, when entries to all the events will close. HowDidiDo’s database now holds in excess of 21 million rounds of golf along with the handicaps, results and scores of more than 1,300,000 UK golf club members. It is now arguably the largest and ■ For more information or to register for the competition, visit www.moroccomatchplay.co.uk.

most up-to-date database of golfers in Europe.

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www.moroccomatchplay.co.uk www.howdidido.com


Lee Porter, the PGA Professional attached to Hylands Golf Complex in Chelmsford, has been voted Clubmaker of the Year by the Golf Clubmakers Association in the UK. Lee now ranks in the top ten custom-fit clubmakers throughout Europe. No wonder he counts 8 touring golf pros as customers, including the ever popular local Pro, Robbie Coles.

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MY FITTING PARAMETERS In my opinion, there are 54 different fitting parameters that must be looked at before a golf club can be fitted for a golfer. This isn’t ‘Custom Fitting’ as this term is now used in so many scenarios where the job is done poorly that the term is almost becoming irrelevant. I like to think of my parameters as ‘Performance Fitting’, in fact, if you do have a ‘Custom Fitting’ and as if by magic standard specification suits you perfectly, then it’s time to run for the hills! With this in mind I thought that over the next few months, I would write about a few of the

parameters that are so often overlooked. So, here goes ... Swing Weight and Total Weight: Both quite different but equal important the weight of the club can greatly affect how the club performs. On paper, a lighter overall weight makes sense for speed but there are other factors that need to be considered. Firstly, and most importantly, is control. Golfer’s need to be in control of the golf club during the swing and total weight will play a roll in this. Too light and the club

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will be delivered inconsistently causing errant striking. I think where golfers become confused is that it’s not the overall speed of the swing, it’s ‘unloading’ the energy of the club and swing at impact - this is where speed comes from. Think of the swing as cracking a whip, you want the snap as the club collides with the ball – top players are fantastic at this.Total weight will play a roll in this as golfers can ‘feel’ where the club is more during the swing. Interesting Fact: Many player’s club head will actually be decelerating as it strikes the ball. Total weight can be associated with physical strength but not all the time; it also depends on the clubs' transition (the change of direction between back swing to downswing). Transition has no right or wrongs; it is what it is and swing tempo is very difficult to change; so total weight is important here. Swing weight is slightly different. Think of the golf club like a see-saw, changing the weight either end makes the balance different – this is essentially swing weight. Common sense tells us that a golf club has three main components – head, shaft & grip so changing one means the other has to be adjusted. For example, if you purchase your clubs with standard-size grips, but you change them for either a midsize or oversize grip the head may feel lighter as the larger grip is heavier. Interestingly, the shaft also plays a large part in this. Using the same head for testing golfers will often say that the club with the heavier shaft feels lighter. This is because the weight has been distributed differently throughout the club. Head weight is also a major player when it comes to be efficient striking. Player’s need different head weights depending on their tempo. To test these factors I would recommend buying some impact labels. These cost around £10 – £15 and truly is one of the best investments you can make. Hitting shots with impact labels tells you so much about your game. If the strike marks are scattered over the face, then this needs to be looked at. Finally, I have joined what seems like the rest of the world and am now on Twitter (@LeePorterGolf). Through this, I try to give interesting facts and reports on testing I have done – you will be pleased to know I don’t tweet about what I had for dinner or my opinion on the football!

Elmstead Cup Success Alasdair Haines won the Elmstead Cup at Colchester GC over the Easter weekend. In a tight final against Steve McAvoy, he came the out eventual winner on the 20th hole. Qualifying for the trophy started on Good Friday with the top eight players of the medal going through to the knockout stages. The eight players going into the knockout were Chris Doyle (13), Stephen McEvoy (12), Lorrie Austin (7), Alasdair Haines (15), Richard Withnall (5) Michael Carroll (14), Jacob Farson (5) and Stuart Sharman (6). The trophy was presented to Colchester in 1920 when the Elmstead Golf Club closed, and this year’s final did justice to the history with the match going to two extra holes before being decided. There is no doubt the second hole decided the final. Haines eagled the par five in normal play and then birdied it the second time around to win the competition. Fittingly, it was 21 years since Haines’s father Richard had won the same competition.

No Trouble For Adam Adam Colling won the delayed Cystic Fibrosis Stableford at Colchester GC last weekend. Scheduled to have been played in the wet days of mid-February the delay certainly did Adam no harm. Playing off an 18 handicap he rattled off 42 points with seemingly no trouble, putting him one shot clear of Iain Cruickshank (11) who along with Mike Akin (12) handed in cards of 41 points. The recent fine weather did the scoring no harm at all as David Drake (17) and Steve Jennings (7) both came home with 40 points. In all there were eleven players of the 83 in the field who came back bettering their handicap. The best golf of the weekend however came from Saturday’s Walkon-Medal when Keith Newnham with an impressive 43 Stableford points which took him from a Category 2 golfer to a Category 1, Keith Newnham reducing his handicap to 5.

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CLUB OF INGATESTONE

presents the

SEVENTEENTH CHARITY GOLF DAY for MEN Sponsored by M.W.Beer & Co. Ltd, Ingatestone www.rcoicgd.co.uk in support of Centres

and

Monday 12th MAY 2014 At

MAYLANDS GOLF CLUB ROMFORD

The programme will be as follows:COFFEE, BACON ROLL AND REGISTRATION from 11.00 a.m. TEE OFF ... This year we are having a SHOTGUN start at 12:30. The competition will be an 18 hole Stableford (24max.hcp.) Team Event, best three scores to count. It will also incorporate an Individual Event, nearest the pins, hole in one, longest drive, and hole prizes! EVENING FROM 6.30 PM ... TWO COURSE MEAL with coffee and mints PRIZE PRESENTATION ... at 7.30 p.m. PLUS RAFFLE ,TOMBOLA and heads and tails Many Prizes :Great Individual and Team prizes, Guess the Score Competition, Raffle COST for the day ... Still only £60. You can download a GOLF APPLICATION FORM and print-out the form * Please arrange to forward your cheque, payable to ‘The Rotary Club of Ingatestone’, by 25th April 2014 To Barry Seymour, 5 Culvert Close, Coggeshall, Essex CO6 1PB Website: www.rcoicgd.co.uk Sponsorship always welcomed by local businesses *www.essexsites.co.uk/wwwsites/rotary_ing/golf_application_2014.pdf

Clacton Results Captain Tony Stevens took his team to Braintree Golf Club for the annual “Crystal Bowl” Match, on a dry pleasant afternoon with the Stisted course in excellent condition; the pre match atmosphere was electric with both teams up for the match. In match one, Clacton Captain Tony & Steve Parks lost to Braintree Captain Andrew Cuthbertson & Gary Mills, in match two Tom Heffer & Dan Clarke halved with John Still & Gary Orrin, in match three Matt Heffer & Paul Pidgeon halved with Brian Day & Ray Jenkyn, in match four Nick Heffer & Alan Hearn beat Tony Pomphrett & Cyril Oatley 5&3, in match five Kevin Hill & Clayton Jeffrey beat Kevin Smith & Rob Jiggins 2&1, in match six Steve Scott & Mark Chamberlain beat Stuart Gason & Alan Mac 7&6, in match seven Danny Thomas & Malcolm Pitcher beat Chris Sedman & Peter Marlbough 4&3, in match eight John Herbert & Brian Stringer beat Geoff Reeves & Stephen Drake one up, in match nine John Crick & Nigle Martin lost to Stephen Lawrence & Steve Sparrow 3&2and in the final match Laurie Farrugia & Steve James beat Peter Gould & Bob Race 2&1. Braintree Captain Andrew presented the “Cristal

Bowl” to Clacton Captain Tony and congratulated the Clacton team on a fine five and a half matches to three and a half matches win. Clacton Golf Clubs men played their April Medal on Sunday morning. In Division, A (Handicaps 12 & below) the winner was Andy Hobbs with a score of 74 from his 4 Handicap leaving a nett 70 and a new handicap of 3. Second was Peter Hewett with 76-5-71 and a new handicap of 4. Third was Les Hall with 84-12-72. In Division B (Handicaps 13 and above), the winner was Ben Usedon with 80-16-64 and a new handicap of 14, second was Jason Beer with 87-19-68 and a new handicap of 18 and in third place was Paul Otte with 94-24-70 and a new handicap of 23. Clacton Golf Clubs Juniors played the “James Petts Trophy,” presented to the club by former junior and now a top professional golf coach based in Denmark. The 2014 winner was Miss Katy Yates with a very good score of 44 Stableford points and a new handicap of 21, In second place was Junior Club Captain Ben Rendell with 38 points and in third place was Lee Thompson with 37 points.

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Costa Brava

puts golfers with a nose for wine on the right trail Golfers seeking the best golf, gastronomy and wine Spain has to offer will welcome Costa Brava’s newly launched DO Empordà Wine Route, which maps out one of the oldest wine-producing counties in the world. Flanked by the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean Sea, Costa Brava’s Empordà province, has been producing wine since 500 BC, when the Phoenicians first colonisedthe area. The newly created DO Empordàine Route showcases the numerous hotels, restaurants, wine bars, wine therapy treatment companies and museums making up Costa Brava’s wine culture. Golfers can discover with ease this rich and unexplored wine haven, which stretches from the French border to the historical town of Blanes, 50 minutes north of Barcelona. “The DO Empordà Wine Route

serves as a starting point for associating [our local] wine with other cultural and sensory areas. The aim is to channel all aspects related to the world of Empordà wine through a set of trails that offer a fascinating experience will linger in your memory.” Ramón Ramos continued: “From April onwards, the Empordà county will lead the region’s Vivid wine festival with a multitude of wine-related festivities and events that include tastings, workshops, cooking sessions and tours.Therefore, golfers coming to the Costa Brava should prepare to discover fine, flavoursome wines, brimming with authenticity, flavour and opulence.” Golfers visiting this north-eastern corner of Spain will have the choice of 13 golf courses and 10 Par 3 courses, each providing sharply contrasting landscapes and different playing experiences. Visitors will also be spoilt for choice as Costa Brava offers the highest concentration of Michelinstarred restaurants in the country, accounting for 20 stars to date. The region is easily accessible to both national and international visitors thanks to GironaCosta BravaAirport, a major Ryanair hub, and BarcelonaInternationalAirport, which is under an hour’s drive away. The newly opened high-speed rail link that connects Girona and Barcelona to the rest of continental Europe also provides a more leisurely travel alternative. Additional information on Costa Brava can be found at www.costabrava.org and www.golf.costabrava.org

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For your FREE advert in Holiday Golf, E-mail no more than 50 words with your details to info@essexgolfer.com For more listings go to www.essexgolfer.com FOR SALE: BELEK ANTALYA TURKEY, 5 Bed Semi-Detached Villa 3Double 2Single Fully Furnished Air con Solar Panels Communal Swimming pools Own Garden And Parking space. Great rental potential It is across the road from Cornelia Golf Course and close to many others, £65.000 ONO for quick sale due to ill health For more details and photos e-mail imck@btinternet.com. FOR RENT: Stunning 2 bed rental apartment at La Torre Golf Resort, Murcia, Spain (Jack Nicklaus designed), free wi-fi, aircon & overlooking pool complex only a short drive to miles of sandy beaches. Ideal for golfers/families. Apartment rental prices start from £260 per week: www.murcia-golf.net or phone: Colleen 07702 988 600 FOR SALE: A weeks stay in a luxury lodge at The Carrick on Loch Lomond starting 7th July, The lodge is set within lovely surroundings, overlooks the golf course and full use of the facilities at Cameron house are available, £2000 ono, normally £3400 for this week. TEL 07854 980509. FOR SALE: Time-share 2 bedroom apartment for 2 weeks in September at the Alto golf & country club, Alvor on the Algarve. (golf available at a discount). Beautifully maintained grounds, facilities with in-door & out-door pools, tennis, restaurant, bar etc. Annual maintenance fee £480 per week. Asking price £3000 for 2 weeks. Peter Maris TEL 01992 572777 email: petermaris@btinternet.com. FOR RENT: One bedroom apartment,(sleeps 4) on the Seve Ballesteros designed golf course at the 5 star Oliva Nova Golf and Beach Resort.One hour from Alicante or Valencia airports. Two minutes walk to the Club House, Blue Flag Beach, Bars, small supermarket and spa. Contact: Pamela & Alan Linger on 01376 573259 or olivagolf@hotmail.com.

FOR RENT: Polaris World , La Torre Golf Resort, Murcia, Spain. Two Bedroom two bathroom detached villa situated on the stunning La Torre Golf Resort. Situated just 5 mins from the first tee of the fantastic Nicklaus Design golf course, guests will receive discounted residents green fees on this course along with other Polaris World courses. Prices start at £300.00 per week for more information please email rjleigh@sky.com. FOR RENT: Costa Del Sol,150 yards to 1st tee,2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment at royal golf miraflores; 2 swimming pools, video entry, sky TV. For more info call Geoff on 07723 074809 or email me at geoffrey.arnold1@btinternet.com. FOR RENT: The Fairhaven Lake Lodge in Lytham St Annes. A luxury 4* star property within a 5 minutes’ walk of Royal Lytham golf course and easy reach of 3 other championship qualifying courses. Sleeps 6-8 to people and available all year round. For more info contact me at pauljlanigan@gmail.com. FOR SALE: Luxury log cabin sleeps 8 with balcony at Belton Woods De Vere Lincolnshire Golf Resort, week 23 (June 9th) overlooking 2 golf courses. olfers enjoy free swimming pool and gym, also ideal for families. Price £6,500.ono. Annual maintenance £650. reluctant sale. Phone 01992 576789 Barbara Hall or email b.hall789@btinternet.com. FOR RENT: Costa Calida. 15 minutes to airport and the sea. Located in a Golf Resort with onsite bars and pool and a golfer’s paradise. 2 beds villa €500 per month inclusive of council tax, building and contents insurance. It is possible to LIVE THERE FOR FREE subject to personal circumstances. Please email 126@pcmlap.com for more information.

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FOR RENT: Costa-del-golf Spain Villacana. 30 mins from Malaga/Gibraltar.1 bed house, sleeps two, swimming pools and beach ... bars and restaurants close to village Cancelada. Golf courses ... El Parariso, Flamingos, Atalaya Casares and lots more. Email jeffloughran@sky.com Tel 01268 753330. FOR RENT: 3 bedroom apartment (sleeps 6) in Marbella Spain located on the highly regarded Los Arqueros Golf & Country club. Private garden and 2 swimming pools. 45 minutes from Malaga Airport. 20 golf courses within 20 minute drive. Email Darren at isaacs976@aol.com for further info. FOR SALE: 1 week Timeshare in June, St Mellion Golf and Country Club, Cornwall. Spacious lodge with two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, lounge, fully equipped kitchen, separate dining room. Sleeps 6. Includes 2 rounds of golf on week days. Contact 01206 247043 or mel_barker@btinternet.com FOR RENT: Golf Resort Hacienda Riquelme Resort - Murcia - Spain - 2 Bedroom Apartment sleeps 4-6, part of the Jack Nicklaus golf trail, secure gated community, great course, amenities on site, beaches nearby, 15 min drive to airport, cheap flights available from Southend /Stansted . From £250 per week, long term rental available - please email lee_hibell@hotmail.com FOR SALE: Barham Broom, Norfolk. Time share.1 bed appartment sleeps 4, 2 Golf Courses, Swimming pool, Gym, Squash, Tennis courts. Week 37 - 2ND Week in September. £435 yearly Maintenance – Paid for 2014 Free Golf for 4. £1000 O.N.O. Contact: 01708 448849


Success Begins at Home for Top Manager Emma A former member of the Ladies’ European Tour (LET), who gave up a career as a golfer and went on to manage her home club, has been named the Golf Club Managers’ Association’s (GCMA) manager of the year for 2014. PGA professional Emma Clifford, who played on the LET for nine years throughout the 1990s, became secretary-manager of West Essex Golf Club – the venue where she started playing aged just seven - during the economic downturn. She won the prestigious award, sponsored by HowDidiDo, Europe’s largest golfing community, and Tonic Golf, the leading insurance provider for golfers, because she revamped the club’s marketing operation, which helped bring in 115 new members last year alone, negotiated new deals with all major suppliers that cut costs and helped to turn financial losses into profits, and played a major role in the club – which offers free coaching every week – securing both GolfMark status and becoming a Get Into Golf centre. Her prize includes a trip to Rioja, in Spain, and the opportunity to attend several GCMA network meetings. Clifford won the award ahead of five other finalists: Trevor Atkinson from Filton Golf Club; Michael Rutter, from Ryton Golf Club; James Washington, from Bradford Golf Club; Simon Smith, from Aston Wood Golf Club; and Terry Crump from Harpenden Common Golf Club.

“This is my X Factor moment …” Bob Williams, chief executive of the GCMA, revealed that the six judges deliberated over the decision for seven hours – after spending three hours interviewing the candidates – making it the closest competition in its 10-year history. Williams also revealed the competition attracted 111 nominations, the highest in its history, and the format will now be expanded in line with growing interest.

Notleys Golf Club Charity Day Tee off for charity at The Notleys Golf Club, Black Notley on 30 May 2014.You and your team of three others will enjoy pre-match bacon butties before heading out on to the green for 18 holes of golf. Once the game is over, you’ll sit down to a delicious two course meal. You’ll be playing to support Age UK Essex, an independent local charity which helps older people in Essex enjoy later life.Your team fee of £170 will help them provide three lonely older people with weekly befriending visits for a whole year. To book, call Fundraising Manager Jean Robinson on 07584 608 483.

Clifford said: “I would like to thank everyone at West Essex – the members, the captain, the president. They all made me very welcome as manager after I grew up there. I would also like to thank the GCMA and sponsors for this competition. Special recognition must also go to my fellow finalists: five new friends for me and great networking opportunities. - 61 -


Stow Road, Cold Norton, Nr. Maldon, Essex CM3 6RR

Stow Road, Cold Norton, Nr. Maldon, Essex CM3 6RR

MIXED OPEN MEETING

LADIES OPEN MEETING

Saturday 13th September 2014

Monday 30th June 2014

18 HOLE BETTER BALL STABLEFORD

TEAMS OF 3 BEST 2 SCORES COUNT STABLEFORD

HANDICAP LIMIT 28 Men 36 Ladies C.D.H. No. required on form below No. Can be found! Full handicap - both scores to count on the Par 3 holes

HANDICAP LIMIT 36 - full handicap C.D.H No required on form below

PRIZES GALORE Entry fee £33 per person Includes tea / coffee and biscuits on arrival and refreshments after 9 holes Two Course Meal

PRIZES GALORE Entry fee £66 per couple Includes tea / coffee and biscuits on arrival and refreshments after 9 holes plus Two course meal

Please return entry form & cheques to: Celia Jackaman 8, St. Andrews Rd. Rochford Essex SS4 1NP Tel: 01702 547 546 e-mail: celiabrewster@tiscali.co.uk

Please return entry form & cheques to: Celia Jackaman 8, St. Andrews Rd. Rochford Essex SS4 1NP Tel: 01702 547 546 e-mail: celiabrewster@tiscali.co.uk

Three Rivers Golf Club

Three Rivers Golf Club

Ladies Open Meeting Monday 30th June 2014 Contact Name ........................................................... Club ........................................................................... H/C ............................................................................ C.D.H. No. .......................(digits, this can be found on ..........) Contact Address ....................................................... ................................................................................... .................................... Post Code............................. Phone Number........................................................... E-mail ........................................................................ Partners Name .......................................................... Club ........................................................................... H/C .................. C.D.H. No. ....................................... Partners Name .......................................................... Club ........................................................................... H/C .................. C.D.H. No. .......................................

Mixed Open Meeting Saturday 13th September 2014

Contact Name ...........................................................

Club ...........................................................................

Address .................................................................... ...................................................................................

.................................... Post Code.............................

Contact No.................................................................

E-mail address........................................................... C.D.H. No. ....................................... H/C ..................

Partners Name ..........................................................

Club ........................................................................... C.D.H. No. ....................................... H/C ..................

Entries close 15th June No refunds after 20th June Please enclose a S.A.E. or if you wish to be advised by e-mail please tick box Cheques payable to “Three Rivers Golf Club Ladies Section”

Entries close 1st September No refunds after 5th September Please enclose a S.A.E. or if you wish to be advised by e-mail please tick box Cheques payable to “Three Rivers Golf Club Ladies Section”

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Drive H Drive Home Hom ome for Fiver! for a Fi F iver ! 1 18 8 ho holes les off golf golf ffor orr just just ÂŁ5 ÂŁ5 Book Now! 01621 829781

Stow Road, Cold Norton, Purleigh, Essex CM3 6RR Offer available after 3.00pm until 30th June 2014. 18 holes of golf on our Jubilee course only. Excludes weekends and bank holidays. Terms & Conditions apply.


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