ESSEX GOLF
Union
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE NOVEMBER 2012 ISSUE 7
BRADLEY PRESTON What’s in the Bag? page 14
THE 19TH HOLE St. Cleres Hall page 8
COACH’S CORNER with Gary Jacom page 32
FULL SWING – THE THINGS YOU MUST KNOW TO BE A GOOD BALL STRIKER Steven Palmer Tutorial page 20
CHI POWER GOLF with Jayne Storey page 34
FREE BLACKBOOK DIRECTORY INSIDE
COUNTY NEWS 2012 WRAP UP pg 42
2012
T T T
page 72
WR AP
UP
27 HOLES OF BEAUTIFUL PARKLAND GOLF
18 and 9 hole golf courses plus floodlit driving range bar, brasserie and alfresco dining Weddings, private functions and conference facilities All available at Channels and Regiment Way Golf Club Luxury on-site accommodation at ‘Channels Lodge’
Channels Golf Club t: 01245 440 005 e: info@channelsgolf.co.uk Belsteads Farm Lane, Little Waltham, Chelmsford, Essex CM3 3PT
3 MIKE SPALL WELCOME
Welcome If truth be told, my first association with golf was in the mid 1950’s when a friend told me I could earn as much as five shillings (that’s 25p for our younger readers) for one round of caddying, the same as I was earning for a whole week’s paper round! So the following week I went along to the West Essex Golf Club and got a job caddying for a member in a Thornton Cup match. That member turned out to be the very well-known Dingy Bell, and I soon became his regular caddy. I had a very enjoyable time as the regular caddy of one of the best young golfers in the club, and together we travelled all over the south of England to major clubs and tournaments. I was so inspired by these early impressions that, after spending 40 years in the property business, I sold my firm and retired early to devote more of my time to the county and the sport that I love. During my 22 years on the Essex Golf Union, I have seen the county go from strength to strength. We have more promising new talent than ever before. And in 2009 of course, came our first ever English County Championship win. We truly do have much to be proud of. It is therefore my sincere pleasure to introduce you, dear reader, to the official Essex Golf Union magazine, which we hope will enable us to inspire and inform you, and whip up some Essex spirit. Within this magazine we will regularly provide top interviews and probing features on the great and good of Essex golfing past and present. We will encourage local golfers and golf enthusiasts of all ages and abilities by providing information on scholarships and coaching programmes. This, dear readers, is not my magazine, it is our magazine. You may write or email your thoughts, ideas or suggestions for articles, ensuring this is truly a community magazine. The world has changed a lot since the days that I earned five shillings for a day of caddying. The union aims to move with the times whilst retaining our respect for the game and sense of tradition. The reason we have created this digital magazine, is to get all the information about our favourite game in our favourite county straight to you as efficiently as possible. We hope you are proud of what we are aiming to achieve and showcase, and we urge you to spread the word! Tweet about us, post us on Facebook, or simply tell your friends when you next see them for an ale. Go forth proudly, and together, with the right amount of enthusiasm, we can make Essex the greatest golfing county in the land. Mike Spall President Essex Golf Union
Contents 8
14
24
32
Presidents Welcome Mike Spall
3
In the Clubhouse St. Cleres Hall
8
What’s in the Bag? Bradley Preston
14
Golf Tutorials- Full Swing The Things You Must Know To Be A Good Ball Striker with Steven Palmer
22
Essex Golf Union Contact Us
28
Coaches Corner Gary Jacom
32
In the Clubhouse at St. Cleres Hall
34
44
ESSEX GOLF
Chi Power Golf Jayne Storey
34
County News Order of Merit
40
County Wrap Up County Dinner & 2012 Winners
42
Our History Mike Spall
66
Essex Venues
70
The Black Book Directory
72
Union
46
8
THE 2012
BLACKBOOK DIRECTORY
83 90
5
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8 IN THE CLUBHOUSE ST. CLERES HALL
St. Cleres Hall Marcus Bain takes a look at what St. Cleres Hall has to offer St Cleres Hall is a stunning 18 holes golf course, with an excellent driving range and 9 hole course. Set in the grounds of a 17th century manor house with views over looking the Thames, it is hard to believe you are only 30 minutes from the hustle and bustle of London, and within walking distance of Stanford Le Hope train station. With our very experienced green keeping staff, the course is kept in excellent condition whatever the weather conditions. We have an excellent and dedicated professional, David Wood who is currently a county ladies and lead county junior academy coach. He offers lessons 7 days a week, and has himself competed at the highest level. He runs one of the best golfing stores in the area, offering the most up to date and quality products available and is on hand to advise. Inside the club house you will find a warm welcome with a crackling fire to enjoy with a cold pint or bottle of wine accompanied by scrumptious home cooked food. There is no better way to relax after a game of golf, or to bring your family along for a trip out. We look forward to welcoming you to St Cleres Hall soon .
W
e at The Essex Golf Union caught up with Mike Valente, One of the three owners at St Cleres Hall, one of Essex’s most welcoming golf clubs, to find out about the running of the club house, and talk about the inner workings of the local golf industry and what goes on behind the scenes.
Ô Firstly, how long have you been in your position and what roles does your position entail? I have been at St Cleres for the last 18 years. I was involved in the planning process and engaging the golf architect a prolific designer of many golf courses throughout the West Country. My partners and I played a major part in the construction of the course providing the manpower to the professional sculptures that shaped the course Over the following years we have planted over 25000 trees resulting in the transformation from prairie to a blossoming tree lined course that harbours a vast array of wildlife. The underlying subsoil being a sandy loam being ideal for golf in that it is naturally free draining and thus allows mud free pleasurable golf to be played year round. I am currently involved with the overseeing of operations at the site, and
9 ST. CLERES HALL IN THE CLUBHOUSE
especially enjoy anything that I can do to improve the facility to all levels of golfers
venue for a unique type of entertainment to overcome your fears! Watch out for this in the near future
Ô What would you say is the best and most satisfying part of your job?
In the summer we hope to have murder mystery nights with a difference!
I most enjoy anything that the club does that is at the cutting edge of the industry for example at St Cleres we already have one of the best floodlit driving ranges in the county however despite this and to ensure we keep our market share in the face of new facilities opening we have invested in the true strike and true tee system which have recently been installed in the range. This is a revolutionary mat system that imitates the feeling of hitting off natural turf that should attract the higher end golfer to come and practice in our range in the full knowledge that they are getting good positive practice that cannot be had from hitting off a conventional mat.
Ô AAre you a venue that attracts people from outside of golf to your facility / What types of entertainment do you offer that is outside the norm? Yes, very much so. We already attract many people to our Sunday lunch menu and more and more people are calling in for lunches who are not involved in golf. We have our clubhouse in a 300 year old mansion house that is very crooked with nooks and crannies and unique features providing a perfect
Ô We all know a lot of business is conducted over a round of golf, in what ways do you cater especially for corporate or business clients, and what additional facilities are available for conferences and business meetings? We have a host of meeting rooms for the medium or small conference we provide visual aids and cater for larger events in the summer in our own marquee.
Ô After a long game of golf, I’m sure many find themselves rather peckish. What does your club offer in the way of sustenance, do you use any home grown produce? And what is the most common drink for a player after a game? We have roaring fire in the hearth in the winter and offer the heartiest of breakfasts at the most competitive prices. We have a great menu for lunch which is complemented at the weekend by our Sunday roast menu a hit with the locals. We have a fully-stocked bar, always including a guest beer, and serve a range of great coffees and speciality teas.
10 IN THE CLUBHOUSE ST. CLERES HALL
Ô I am a firm believer that if you want to know what is the best thing Ô IGolf clubs tend to evoke a family atmosphere; do you have special on the menu at any food serving establishment, the wisest thing to do is facilities for children and young people? And are there any offers available ask a member of staff who chooses (or is forced) to eat there! What is your to families for membership? favourite meal/snack at the club? No doubt in my mind the Sunday roasts.
We are very family focussed with the direct appeal of our 9 hole golf course purposely designed for the family game.
Ô Keeping on the food theme, what catering facilities do you have or use Not too serious but ll a challenge and at affordable rates for a game that to cater for your members and visiting groups/special events? will not take up all your day. Our full catering facilities are available to both members and visitors and we have a special a la carte menu for events, as well as gourmet dishes which are popular for weddings in our marquee in the summer months.
The professional staff has junior sections and are often to be found teaching groups of youngsters in the range at the weekend. We offer reduced rates for junior golfers and family memberships which
Ô Is there a hotel aspect to your club? If not, what venues do you can be accessed on our website recommend in the local area? Ô Golf is competitive game, which as we all know can lead to quite a bit of We don’t have accommodation but the Bell in Horndon just a mile away frustration at times. After a tough round, what other welcome distractions are there in the clubhouse for members and guests…pool, darts, board offers an excellent place to stay locally. games etc.? (Or does the bar satisfy most?)
11 ST. CLERES HALL IN THE CLUBHOUSE
How better to relax than in an old mansion house in front of the fire sitting in the armchairs ruminating over why you played so well
come a play at our club. They have enjoyed it and returned to play again encouraged by the many offers we have over the winter which can be found on our website.
Ô Do you find there has been more interest or more members at your club in the last few years, given the renewed popularity of the game? And what requirements do you need to become a member? The club has shown its prowess over the last few years as an excellent all year course despite the inclement weather. This has attracted players who have had to abandon their own courses to come a play at our club. They have enjoyed it and returned to play again encouraged by the many offers we have over the winter which can be found on our website.
Ô And finally, how would you best sum up the atmosphere that exists within the clubhouse? What would hope someone who has never visited you club might take away with them after their first visit? This has attracted players who have had to abandon their own courses to
ST CLERES HALL GOLF CLUB, LONDON ROAD, STANFORD LE HOPE, ESSEX SS17 0LX WWW.STCLERESHALLGOLFCLUB.CO.UK STCLERESHALLGOLFCLUBESSEX.UK.NET TEL: 01375 361565
Check out & read our previous issues on
nline.
Click an issue to read Issue #1 - Top 25 Amateurs of 2011 Issue #2 - What’s in the Bag Simon Khan? Issue #3 - Bobby Keeble 2012 Amateur Champion Issue #4 - On the Greens: Bentley GC Issue #5 - Mitchel Sarling 2012 Boy’s Championship Winner Issue #6 - What’s in the Bag Matthew Southgate?
www.essexgolfunion.org
What’s in the bag? Bradley Preston, Woolston Manor Bradley qualified as a PGA Golf Professional in 1994 after spending 3 years as a student at Kingston University studying an HND in Golf Studies alongside his PGA Qualifications. This meant he was more qualified than the average Golf Professional to embark on his career in Golf and he has certainly made use of his knowledge over the past 16 years. He started his journey as an Assistant Professional at Chadwell Springs Golf Club in Hertfordshire where he stayed for a year. From here, Bradley joined Fairlop Waters in Essex where he was attached as a PGA Assistant for six months. He then attained the Head professional position/Director of golf. During this time Bradley started to build his reputation as first class golf instructor. Six years later Bradley joined the Team at Hainault Forest Golf complex. Bradley managed the club for 5 years helping grow the club into one of the busiest golf clubs in England. Bradley was still growing his reputation as a coach, during this time he started to coach many different types of people from everyday people to celebrities, young aspiring tour pro’s to US PGA tour pro’s. In 2007 Bradley moved to Woolston Manor Golf & Country Club becoming the Director of Golf/ Head Professional. Whilst here Bradley started his own Golf Academy and Professional Golf shop for all the members and guest to enjoy. In 2009 Bradley coached US PGA Tour player Brian Davis at The Children’s Miracle Classic Tournament at Disney in Florida helping Brian to finish 6th and moving him to 58th in FEDEX CUP standings. After all this Bradley can still find time to coach all levels of player and would be delighted for you to pop in for a golf lesson. We’re sure you won’t be disappointed.
15 BRADLEY PRESTON WHAT’S IN THE BAG
Why I use...
Razr fit driver 8.5 degrees with a Diamana stiff shaft I’ve been lucky enough to have been a Callaway staff player for the last three years. After being fitted at callaway’s fitting centre in chess ington I choose this driver because it performed the best. I’ve always produced a lot of spin with my drivers whiched has made me very straight but sometimes a little shorter than I want. So this was the driver that took the spin off and increased the distance for me.
Razr fit 3 wood 15 degrees with a Diamana stiff shaft
Razr fit 5 wood with Diamana stiff shaft
I’ve always carried a 3 wood but I love the 3 wood sits behind the ball. It’s very easy to hit and very forgiving.
One of my favourite clubs. Easy to use very forgiving and I can still get some good yardage out of it. This club goes 220 yards consistently for me.
Razr X Tour irons 3-pw I choose these irons because they are very powerful. I have been fitted with A light X 100 shaft which really helped with my ball flight. They are standard lie and length.
16 WHAT’S IN THE BAG BRADLEY PRESTON
Razr X 52 & 58 copper wedges I use these wedges because I love the shape and the way they look behind the ball. I like to be able to open my wedges and have them sit flush on the ground. So I’ve had the soles ground down slightly to help with tight lies. I choose the copper colour head just because I used to use them when I was younger.
Tour Velvet Grips Standard grips but because my shafts have a slightly wider butt they feel slightly thicker.v
Odyssey pro type number 3 putter
HX Tour Black
I’ve always liked a traditional shape putter so I choose this because of the look,feel and weight. I feel I get a consistent stroke with this putter a and just feel comfortable with it which Is very important.
I use this ball because of its feel with my wedges and putter but it also produces less spin with my driver. It’s great to be able to get everything you want out of one ball.
Callaway Tour Authentic Glove I loved the feel of this glove the moment I put it on.
Callaway Razr These shoes are very comfortable and I feel very stable in them when I’m swinging. I don’t want to be worrying about my feet when I’m out on the course. So I have a white and black pair.
HARWICH & DOVERCOURT GC
www.harwichanddovercourtgolfclub.com
HARWICH & DOVERCOURT GC is situated just a stones throw away from the historical sea town of Harwich in North Essex. A 9-hole course that plays just over 6,000 yards, this a hidden jewel nestling on the River Stour Estuary. It is 17 miles from the Britain’s oldest recorded town of Colchester, and is in close proximity to the beautiful ‘Constable Countryside’ of the Essex and Suffolk border. Formed in 1906, this is a traditional and testing parkland golf course that offers a fantastic days golf for players of all ages. A warm welcome from staff and members is always assured, and hosts a full bar and restaurant facilities using locally sourced fresh food, available at most times. Please visit our website for more information on
“a hidden jewel”
on the River Stour Estuary HARWICH & DOVERCOURT GC STATION ROAD, PARKESTON, HARWICH, ESSEX CO12 4NZ Phone: (01255) 503616 Fax: (01255) 503323 Email: secretary@harwichanddovercourtgolfclub.com Please Visit our Website: www.harwichanddovercourtgolfclub.com
membership, green fees and society days. Enjoy.
explore, experience and enjoy... Ess is a real county of contrasts, offering a rich Essex tap tapestry of everything that makes Britain great. The There is a wonderful collection of old and new, and Essex manages to combine modern facilities, her heritage properties and beautiful green gardens to cre create the perfect visitor destination.
a rn e L a yer M
y Towe r
R HS Ga rd en Hyd
Esse is also recognised as having one of the driest climates in Essex tthe he UK and the longest coastline of any English county at some 3 50 miles. It is therefore no surprise that Essex has a strong 350 m ar maritime tradition. The Essex Discovery Coast has much to of ffe and there are many hidden treasures to be found, from offer q uie cliff-top walks and seductive rugged coves, right through quiet tto o tthe lengthy stretches of beautiful Blue Flag beaches. Essex iss la largely rural with small market towns, traditional villages and ti hamlets linked by quiet country lanes. Undulating farmland tiny is interspersed in nt with small woodlands, the views interrupted by mi igh oaks and ashes, presided over by the hurrying skies. mighty
e H a ll
For more information go to visitessex.com
F in chin g fi el d
n Sh oe bu ry
Mils o m s
h e n d-o t u o S , h c e ss Be a
R e st a u ra
nt, Ded h a m
n-Sea
If you haven’t explored the 350 miles of Essex coastline, what are you waiting for?
20 GOLF TUTORIALS STEVEN PALMER
Golf Tutorials with Steven Palmer
P Monthly Schedule August 30th - Issue 1 Putting - The fastest way to lower scores This first session is designed to get you scoring better right off the bat. We will discuss the fundamentals of the setup and stroke and also give you some practice techniques that will immediately help you save shots.
September 30th - Issue 2 Short game – Get consistent and add flair This session builds on the putting techniques learned in the previous issue and will help you to build a solid consistent technique. You will then learn some key points on how to make simple adjustments to add a huge range of shots to your short game.
October 30th - Issue 3 Busting common golfing myths So you think you know your stuff? This session is designed to help you filter the sound advice from the most common misconceptions passed on from golfer to golfer every day.
Welcome to the Steven Palmer Golf Tutorial Section Over the course of the next 12 monthly issues of The Essex Golf Union Magazine, we are very happy to bring you exclusive advice and pointers from Essex’s very own Steven Palmer to help improve your game. Each month will feature a different lesson from Steven’s Academy in Spain. We hope you enjoy the first installment of the series which begins on the following page (page 22).
November 30th - Issue 4 Full swing – The things you must know to be a good ball striker Building on the techniques learned in the short game, this session will help you to work on the key elements of the swing that all good ball strikers possess.
21 STEVEN PALMER GOLF TUTORIALS
NEXT MONTH’S GOLF TUTORIAL >> How to assess your season and build an effective improvement plan
December 30th - Issue 5 How to assess your season and build an effective improvement plan
April 30th - Issue 9 Golf psychology - Taking your game from the practice tee to the course
Now the season (and the weather!) has drawn in now it’s delayed to December, this is a great time to assess your golfing year. This session is designed to help you effectively analyse your game and build a plan that gets you motivated, focused and working on the right things.
This is one of the most common issues for golfers. This session will address the mental issues that make this particularly difficult for many golfers to do and change a few habits so that the transition from practice ground to golf course becomes seamless.
January 30th- Issue 6 Fixing common faults
May 30th - Issue 10 How to practice effectively
This is the perfect time of year to address any problems with your ball flight that are causing you to drop shots. This issue is designed to help you find the causes of your faults and learn how to fix them so that, by the time the golf season comes around, you’ll be ready to enjoy it!
When it comes to practicing, it seems like there’s never enough time. Whether you have all day or just half an hour after work, this session is designed to help you make the most of the time you have.
February 28th - Issue 7 Physical training to enhance your game During the winter months it can often be very difficult to get out there on the practice ground and be productive. This issue is designed to help you get your body conditioned for golf, eliminate pain and give you something to do out of the cold!
March 30th - Issue 8 Sharpening up your scoring game With the season fast approaching, it’s time to bring your hard work over the winter together so that it’s ready for the course. This session will teach you how to switch your practice habits from focusing on technical development to focusing on shooting low scores.
June 30th - Issue 11 How to hit the ball further Who doesn’t want to hit it further?! Whether you need to be able to get over the lake at the 6th, reach more greens in regulation or have bragging rights in the clubhouse, this issue will address all the factors affecting distance.
July 30th - Issue 12 Fixing common faults Just in case your season isn’t completely going to plan, this issue will help you to improve your strike, fix your ball flight and get you back to winning ways.
22 GOLF TUTORIALS STEVEN PALMER
Full Swing – The Things You Must Know To Be A Good Ball Striker STEVEN PALMER’S HISTORY Steven Palmer was 8 years old when he first started playing golf, introduced to the sport by his father at a local pitch and putt course. He began coaching from the age of 17 and at 20 he was coaching at the UK Golf Academy at Epping Golf Range. In 2006 he made the move to West Essex Golf Club and found a great mentor in Robert Joyce who has coached some of the best players in Europe like Bernhard Langer, Mark Davis, and Simon Khan. Steven has recently formed the Palmer Williams Golf Academy at Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club just outside Marbella, Spain with fellow PGA professional Daniel Williams. Steven is currently a coach to some of the top county amateurs and professionals and is a specialist for golfers with injuries and disabilities. His coaching philosophy is to help all his students improve technically, mentally and physically, ensuring that his students improve at a maximised rate. We are proud to have Steven sharing his instruction with us and hope you find his 12 step development program that is going to be featured in here over the next 12 months, of huge value to you.
Hey everyone! First of all, I hope you all have a great Christmas. I’m really looking forward to getting back to the UK and having a few days off, although I’m not sure I’m used to the cold anymore! Last week we talked about some of the most common golfing myths and cut through some of the bad advice that gets passed around in the golfing world. With the putting and short game tips from the two previous editions, I hope that by now you’re all feeling a little clearer mentally and are playing with better results on and around the greens. It’s now time to move into the bigger swings…
Drive for show, putt for dough? While there is some sense in this old golfing adage, please don’t take it too seriously. Yes, it’s true that the easiest way for any golfer to shave a couple of shots off their game is to eliminate three-putts and get up and down more often, but the average scratch golfer doesn’t have 20 less putts per round than the average 20 handicapper. 15 of these shots will come from being more efficient from tee to green. The ability to hit it long and straight is what all expert golfers possess that high handicappers don’t. Basically, what’s the use in holing every putt if every putt is for bogey? Being a good ball striker is arguably the most difficult thing in the game for most golfers. I have broken down the key elements of great ball striking for you in order of importance, along with some simple drills that you can do to improve from tee to green.
23 STEVEN PALMER GOLF TUTORIALS Ô Key 1 – Strike the ball from the middle of the clubface If you can’t return the clubhead to the golf ball to create a centred strike most of the time, it’s extremely unlikely that you’ll ever be a good player. Most of the time, this is caused by a poor connection and synchronisation of the arms and body during the swing. Centredness of strike is the main factor separating beginners from high handicapped golfers.
Three Tees Drill: Start by hitting some pitch shots working on the key points in the setup in the previous putting and short game editions. This will get you nicely connected in your setup. From here, tee a ball up and address it with another tee outside the heel and one more outside the toe, just wide enough so that the clubhead can pass through. Hit some half shots focusing on swinging the clubhead between the tees and taking the middle tee out of the ground. If you can do this consistently, build up the swing length and speed until you can consistently repeat this drill successfully with a full swing. It might take some practice, but if you can do it you’ll be well on your way to better ball striking.
Ô Key 2 – Hit the ball with a square clubface Contrary to popular belief, the ball will not always go in the direction that the clubhead is travelling. Even if you swing way to the left, if the clubface is pointing to the right, that’s where the ball will go. This means that the second most important element of good ball striking after centredness of strike is a clubface that is square to the target at impact. If you can do this, you will always hit the ball relatively straight as long as your swing path isn’t drastically off line. There isn’t a “one size fits all” drill for this, but every golfer who can regularly make good contact with the ball who also has accuracy issues will fall into one of the following categories. Choose the drill that’s most relevant to your mistake:
Do you miss mostly left (or right if you’re left handed)? Try anti-left drill: Place the ball on a tee. With a mid iron, practice keeping your body turning through impact and swinging your hands across your body through the hitting area. If your ball still goes left, feel as though the back of your top hand (or the palm of your bottom hand) points to the sky through and after impact. This drill will help the clubface stay more open through impact, causing you to hit the ball straighter.
Do you miss mostly right (or left if you’re left handed)? Try anti-right drill: Place the ball on a tee. With a mid iron, practice keeping your body turning through impact and rotating your clubface closed through the hitting area, so that the toe of the club points to the sky after impact. If the ball still goes to the right, you need to rotate the clubface closed faster and earlier in your swing. This hand action may seem excessive if you’re used to hitting the ball to the right, but you will soon get used to it (and hit it further as a result!). When you can do this with a mid iron, progress to the longer clubs until you can hit your longest club without the ball going to the right.
Do you miss equally left and right? Try this drill: Players who miss both left and right have too much clubface rotation through the hitting area. It is important to eliminate one side first. Perform the “miss mostly left (or right if you’re left handed)” drill until you can hit a consistent fade. When you have eliminated your pull or hook with this drill, take note of your ball flight. Is it starting way left and fading back to the target? If so, you need to hit the ball more from the inside. Check out the drill for this in Key 5 later in this article.
24 GOLF TUTORIALS STEVEN PALMER Ô Key 3 – Take a divot after the ball Any time the ball is on the ground, you must take a slight divot to ensure good contact. If there is no sign of any damage to the turf upon which your ball was sitting, you hit your shot at least a little bit thin. You must however make sure that your divot occurs slightly after the ball for your best contact. If you hit the ground before the ball, grass and soil will get trapped between the clubface and the ball, causing a weak, fat shot.
Drill: With a short iron, make lots of practice swings with a full wrist hinge in your backswing and try to take a slight divot opposite your forward foot. When you can do this fairly regularly, address the ball way forward in your stance. You’ll see in the video that, although the ball is way up opposite my forward foot, my body and hands don’t move up to meet it in my setup. My body stays central and my hands hang opposite the centre of my body, behind the ball. From here, hit the ball focusing on taking a divot after the ball. This drill will force you to shift your weight towards the target correctly in your downswing and also delay your release sufficiently in order to make good contact. After approximately 20 of these, go back to your usual ball position and place a scorecard two inches behind the ball. Focus on missing the scorecard and taking a divot after the ball. Hit approximately 10 of these and return to the previous “ball forward in your stance” drill. Taking a divot after the ball consistently can be very difficult to achieve, so stay patient, it’ll be worth it in the long run!
Ô Key 4 – Create a lot of clubhead speed Easier said than done, but there are three elements that are present in every long hitter’s swing that contribute to high clubhead speed: • Good leverage – this refers to the straightening of the angle between the lead arm and shaft at impact (not before or after impact!) • Good sequencing of movement – this refers to the order of which the body fires in the downswing, which should be legs, hips, shoulders, arms and finally clubhead. • Relaxed aggression – this refers to a player’s ability to move their body and club at high speed without too much tevnsion in their body (a loose muscle will always move faster than a tense one)
Drill: This is a great drill to help develop all three of these traits. Take a golf club and grip it by the head. Make some swings where you make a full wrist hinge and swing as fast as possible. During this movement, try to stay as relaxed as possible. You will hear the club make a “swoosh” sound as it cuts through the air. You may also notice that you lose your balance on occasion. This is natural and will improve as the stabilising muscles in your ankles get stronger and used to your increased speed.
25 STEVEN PALMER GOLF TUTORIALS You will find that you can create the most clubhead speed (and the loudest “swoosh”) by starting your downswing in the right order. While staying as loose as possible, focus on starting your backswing with your legs and hips, followed by your upper body, hands and finally clubhead. When you have developed a good feeling for this, practice doing the same thing holding the club the correct way up, creating the “swoosh” sound with the clubhead. When you’re ready, transfer these feelings into your actual swing whilst hitting some shots.
Ô Key 5 – Hit the ball with a (fairly) square swing path If you can master the previous 4 keys, you will be well on your way to good ball striking. This final key will help you to ensure that you don’t have too much shape on your shots, making you far more accurate. If your clubface is pointing at the target at impact, your ball will always finish in the general vicinity of where you’re aimed. However, if your clubhead is also travelling in the direction of the target through impact, you will be deadly accurate. Out of the two drills below, practice the one that best describes your ball flight:
Drill – Too much fade: If (for a right-handed golfer) your ball tends to start way left and finishes on or right of the target, place a small half filled bottle of water about a foot directly behind your ball. With the ball on a tee and with a mid iron, practice swinging the club outside the bottle in the backswing, and then inside the bottle on the way down into impact. For a player who is used to swinging too much from the outside, this may at first feel very awkward. I promise that, after only 300 repetitions without hitting the bottle, it will feel far more natural. This will help you to hit the ball more from the inside and neutralise your ball flight.
Drill – Too much draw: If (for a right-handed golfer) your ball tends to start way right and finishes on or left of the target, place an alignment aid on the ground aiming at your target. Standing aligned to your target, make several practice swings feeling an “over-the-top” move. As you’re doing this, imagine trying to hit a huge fade onto your target. Incorporate this same feeling into your swing, feeling as though your clubhead is approaching the ball from the outside and that your hands are swinging across your body through impact and into your finish. If you’re used to drawing the ball too much, even what feels like a severe “over-the-top” move will probably produce very little shape on the golf ball. Like I mentioned at the beginning of this article, good ball striking is the hardest thing in golf for most players to achieve, hence why most golfers get more satisfaction from booming the ball off the tee than rolling it along the ground 20 feet into the hole! If you work on the key points above in the correct way for you, you can be guaranteed of becoming a better ball striker. Until next month, work hard and play well…and have a great Christmas and New Year!
Steve
WWW.PALMERWILLIAMSGOLFACADEMY.COM ENQUIRIESPALMERWILLIAMSGOLFACADEMY.COM TEL 1: 07894 953364 TEL 2: 07581 008842
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28 ESSEX GOLF UNION CONTACT US
President Michael R Spall (Royal Epping Forest) 18 Tudor Way, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1PX 01992 760191 mike.r.spall@gmail.com
President Elect John Peters (Woodford) 101 Forest Road, Leytonstone, E11 1JS 07824 702703 johne.peters@ymail.com
Barry Boniface (Five Lakes) Fairways, Post Office Lane Little Totham, Maldon CM9 8JL 01621 894165 bwboniface@aol.com
David Edwards (Royal Epping Forest) 14 Hartland Road Epping CM16 4PE 01992 560920 thelma.edwards@ntlworld.com
Steve Golding (Abridge) 34 Deeway Rise Park, Romford RM1 4XB 01708 780287 ruth.golding@ntlworld.com
Mike Hart (Colchester) 8 Newbridge Hill West Bergholt, Colchester CP6 3ER 01206 241117 mandmc.hart@btinternet.com
Robert Holland (Maldon) 15 Hillcrest Mayland, Chelmsford CM3 6AZ 07903 217439 bwhollandlandscapes@gmail.com
John McInerney Upminster 171 Ardleigh Green Road Hornchurch RM11 2LF 01708 620939 jandcmcinerney@hotmail.co.uk
Alan Merrington (Epping) 37 Carlisle Way Basildon, SS13 3RF 01268 453933 07947 255203 alanmerrington@blueyonder.co.uk
Keith Mitchell (Rochford Hundred) 119 Oakfield Road Benfleet SS7 5NW 01268 756806 kumitchell@btinernet.com
Steve Morrison (The Warren) 4 Berewood Terrace Nounsley Road, Hatfield Peverel CM3 2NF 01245 382916 stevemorry@aol.com
www.essexgolfunion.org
Company Secretary / Honorary Treasurer Philip Kirkham (The Warren) 11 Littlefields, Danbury, CM3 4UR 01245 222248 plkgolf@aol.com
County Secretary Allan Lockwood County Office 2d Maldon Road Witham, CM8 2AB 01376 500998 07860 678202 (Mobile) info@essexgolfunion.org
County Team Captain Andy May (Boyce Hill) 56 Clarence Road North South Benfleet SS7 1HT 01268 757961 anders84may@hotmail.com
Robert Paton (Ballards Gore) 37 Glenmere Park Avenue Thundersley SS7 1SS 01702 559008 bobanpen@tiscali.co.uk
Neil Poulson (Colne Valley) 147 Francis Way Silver End Witham, CM8 3QT 01376 584190 neil.poulson1@btopenworld.com
Frank Tomlin (The Burstead) 2 Ruskin Dene Billericay CM12 0AN 01277 625692 f.tomlin1@btinternet.com
Roger Walmsley (Upminster) 7 Grosvenor Gardens 7 Grosvenor Gardens Upminster RM14 1DL 01708 220772 roger.walmsley@btinternet.com
Life Vice-Presidents Sir Michael F Bonallack OBE (Thorpe Hall) R B Fuller (Braintree) C Inskip (Chelmsford)
Tom Whyte (Channels) 5 Forsythia Close Springfield, Chelmsford CM1 6XW 01245 466384 thomas.whyte@btinternet.com
H E Gaffney (Wanstead)
A T Lockwood (Braintree)
A J Harrison (Warley Park)
D H Robson (Chigwell)
G G Shenstone (Rochford Hundred)
C Inskip (Chelmsford)
A T Lockwood (Braintree)
M Thirkettle (The Warren)
PAST PRESIDENTS J Barbour (Romford) C Crook (Basildon) D Cule Smith (Thorpe Hall)
LIFE VICE PRESIDENTS Sir Michael F Bonallack OBE (Thorpe Hall) RB Fuller (Braintree) C Inskip (Chelmsford)
29
HALL ROAD, ELSENHAM, NR STANSTED AIRPORT, ESSEX, CM22 6DH TEL: 01279-812865 www.elsenhamgolfandleisure.co.uk info@elsenhamgolfandleisure.co.uk
Essex’s Premier 9 Hole Golf Course 3 Hole Beginners Academy Course Family Orientated Teaching Academy Excellent Heated Floodlit Driving Range Newly Refurbished Café Bar & Lounge Area Relaxed Air Conditioned Gym
Advanced TV & iPod Technogym Equipment Regular Fitness Classes Children’s Golf Parties Ample Free Parking New Function Room for Weddings, Parties and Society Days
Gary Jacom answers questions for Coach’s Corner:
Gary Jacom Garon Park Golf Complex
GARY’S HISTORY I turned professional in 1976 at Ilford golf club for two enjoyable years, then an opportunity to work at Chigwell golf club with Mr Eddie Whitcombe a renowned name in golf and one of the founders of our PGA training programme. The profession then was very different; club repairing was a huge part of our daily duties as Mr Whitcombe was regarded as one the best club makers of that era. He also invented the ‘Whitcombe Loft and Lie machine’ you say a prequel to custom fitting today. I qualified at Chigwell in 1979 before moving on to work for Alan Walker at Wanstead GC, it was there that I started to play and teach through Alan’s guidance. Alan is a great business man and opened Warren Park Golf Centre in 1983; I went there with Alan and became the main golf teacher. It was a great success and then in 1988 I was approached by Wanstead to be become their club pro taking over from Dennis Pugh. I made the very difficult decision to leave Warren Park and accept the post. I had a wonderful six years at Wanstead and was privilege to be their pro during their Centenary Year in 1993, my teaching skills and reputation grew and Simon Khan became one of my assistants. In 1995 I became the Head Pro at the new development Garon Park. This exciting complex , 18 holes ( now 27 ) par three course , 30 bay golf range , and welcoming clubhouse was designed by Alan Walker and Charles Cox, but it was because of my past relationship with Alan that I made the decision to leave Wanstead. I am still there today as the director of golf and enjoying its ever growing journey.
Ô Hi Gary, thank you very much for taking the time to do this interview with me today. How long have you been a qualified PGA Professional for now and what drew you to Garon Park? Since 1979, sounds better than saying 33 years way back in Lillieshall days! I was the Club Pro at Wanstead GC when the phone call came from Alan Walker to draw me to Garon Park . I have worked with Alan as his Assistant at Wanstead and Warren Park Golf Centre as his manager. So when Alan told me about this new exciting Complex in Southend I became its Head Pro. That was fifteen years ago and I am still enjoying it very much.
Ô There has been, and still is, some fantastic talent floating around the Essex golf scene. Who are the better players that you have taught in the past and is there anyone you recommend we should look out for in the future either at your club or within the county? At Wanstead GC I was fortunate to have Simon Khan has one my assistants, then he was probably only seventeen but you could see the talent he had. He literally pestered me for coaching nearly every day! We have a great prospect at Garon Park her name is Dulcie Sverdloff (aged 17) her handicap is +1. She is also our Junior Ambassador and is the English Schools Captain. I also coach Christopher Grant who is still only fifteen. When I started with Chris (18 months ago) he played off nine, he is currently 3 and has been selected for Essex under 16 A-team. The biggest difference in his improvement is mentally, he is beginning to think a lot better about his approach to the game.
33 GARY JACOM COACH’S CORNER
Ô Golf is a great sport to be involved with from a young age as it teaches us manners, etiquette, and good quality social skills. What age would you recommend that parents get their children started in the game?
Ô Along with all the brands to choose from, there are also a lot of shops to choose to buy them from. What brands do you stock in your shop, what made you choose them, and do you have any great offers available at the moment?
We have through our High Achiever Golf Mark Award this year, a fully comprehensive National Junior Coaching Programme headed by our PGA Pros Ben Jones and Georgina Swallow. We aim to start children from the age of five.
Our stock is right across the board as we are completely open to the public. We specialise in get into golf equipment our grass root range is the PGA range. We even give one away with our get into golf lessons! But we also stock the top brands and we have found having one of PGA Pro’s For example Steve Richardson is our fully trained Ping Custom Fit Pro (I am the Callaway Custom Fit Pro). Therefore it means clients can be fitted on site without travelling any great distance also this service is free and our prices match other leading golf sites. Our current best offer is our range of Odyssey Putters (30+ in stock) that are discounted by 25%.
Ô We have asked you about the youth so as expected; our county seniors are a very important part of the food chain! Are there any ‘characters’ that deserve a special mention for their game or just general presence around the club? There are two, firstly junior coordinator Micky Pearson who with Ben Jones obtained our Golf Mark Award. He is now entrusted with looking after our 100+ cadets of all ages and standards. His work (helped tirelessly by his wife Carol) has helped Garon Park to be in the top three for the National Golf Mark Awards 2012. Second is Club Captain Jim Saunders who didn’t do just one term of office but two! His role as Captain has been one of the successes Garon Park with his enthusiasm for the job. He has raised in excess of £6,000 for the complexes chosen charities.
Ô Many of the counties PGA pros still play in tournaments such as the East Region PGA events. Do you participate in such events, and if so how did you get on last year? I broke my left wrist about two years ago. So next question!
Ô Everyone has days where nothing is going right for them on the golf course and they feel like just giving up and walking in. What would be the best piece of advice that you could give to a golfer in this situation?
Ô Who are your biggest influences in golf, who inspires you and why? Alan Walker, who I have known for 30 years and have worked for probably fifteen, Alan was a former PGA Captain and is a Master PGA Professional he is also our Managing Director at Garon Park his passion for success still inspires me.
Ô A lot has been made recently of ‘belly putters’ what are your thoughts? OK or KO? I can’t putt with anything, so it doesn’t worry me too much, but as they say the horse as bolted a bit.
Ô There are over 30,000 golfers in the county of all different standards and levels. Now tell us the truth, have you ever had any lessons where you’ve really had to hold the laughter in because the person was just that bad? Never, and if I did, I would not tell you!
I think just look at the tour players and the way they conduct themselves 99% of time. They also have bad days but they keep trying to the end. You never know what the next hole has to offer!
Ô Golfers are always looking to get ahead of their competitors. Do you have anything in your arsenal of teaching methods, whether that is some new technology or general knowledge about the golf swing that is unique to you, and that you’d be willing to share with us? No one has re invented the wheel! So I think my reputation as a recommended Golf Coach has stood up well for me over the years.
Ô There are so many leading golf brands on the market today that it can often get very difficult to choose which driver or which set of irons is best to buy. What piece of advice would you give to someone looking to buy a new club or a new set, and is having them custom fitted that important? Definitely see your PGA pro, they have the best training through our training programme and years (as in my case) years of experience
CONTACT INFO TELEPHONE 01702 601 701 EMAIL DEBBIE@GARONPARKGOLF.CO.UK
34 CHI POWER GOLF JAYNE STOREY
Golf in the Zone Think Sports Media are proud to present a unique series of articles by Jayne Storey, Founder / Director, chi-
power GOLF chi-power GOLF is a performance coaching method based on methods and practices which are tried, tested and proven to help you play golf ‘in the zone’ and experience greater consistency, enjoyment and the happiness of a well-struck golf shot time after time. Jayne Storey has been practicing and professionally coaching the Eastern arts for the past 25 years. She is a long-term member of the Tai Chi Union for Great Britain, professional development facilitator for the Professional Golfers’ Association, feature writer for Golf International, Founder / Director, chi-power PERFORMANCE, providing coaching services to athletes, executives, and other high-achievers to whom it is necessary to perform well in pressure situations.
Hitting a cracking golf-shot is a big source of satisfaction for players and I know that many of you crave for more experiences of ‘hitting it pure’. Can you remember that game when, for a while, it all just came together on the course, maybe starting by feeling calm and confident as you walked out to the first tee? It is hard to put into words the feeling of being “in the zone” but for the majority of golfers what stands out is that their inner voice goes very quiet, mind and body are totally in synch and from this, everything just flows. Then of course the inner voice begins to emerge again; ‘is this too good to be true? Please let it last a bit longer’. And then the zone is gone! Wouldn’t it be great if you could choose to enter that mode - and remain there for the whole round? Well, you can.
35 JAYNE STOREY CHI POWER GOLF
As you go through your pre-shot routine, focusing on your breathing will keep your emotions neutral. Golfers are not alone in facing this challenge. There are many examples from other sports that require the same ‘in the zone’ experience from the second serve in tennis, the penalty kick in football, waiting for the starting-gun on the blocks of the 100m track whatever the sport and whatever the situation time and again experience shows that mastering your breathing is the simplest, most effective way to get “in the zone” and raise your game to championship level.
At address, pause and take a deep breath before taking the club away, as this will steady your nervous-system and keep anxiety to a minimum. Breathing-in to the top of your backswing and breathing-out through impact and to your finish position will stop all those technical thoughts and help you pack more punch in your swing.
Here’s what happens when you shallow-breathe: You perceive a tense situation, say a bad lie after a hooked tee shot and immediately and unconsciously you start shallow breathing. Next, your chest will get a little tighter, less oxygen is fed to your brain, your nervoussystem becomes flooded with adrenaline, your heart beats a bit quicker, your muscles tighten and this makes your whole body tense.
Evening Workshop Brocket Hall Golf Club Wednesday 5th December 6.00pm – 8.00pm
With a tense body you are likely to rush your next shot preparation and possibly shorten your backswing, which will only increase your sense of anxiety or frustration.
Learn new skills and techniques to enhance your pre-shot routine, set-up, swing and putting – all of which can enhance your golf practice routine and improve your abilities. The event is suitable for coaches and committed players whose improvement may have plateaued and for those looking for a fresh approach to better golf.
Now here’s what happens when you breathe deeply:
Entry Price: £50.00
Changes in your body go something like this. You perceive a tense situation, say a bad lie after a hooked tee shot and immediately and unconsciously you start shallow breathing…but this time you stop and take a few deep breaths.
Includes refreshments, complimentary 10 page workshop manual, plus two unique coaching video downloads: “Breathing to Win!” and “Building a Better Swing” (worth £29.99) Read more
Deep breathing sends more oxygen to your brain which then floods your nervoussystem with endorphins, lowers your heart-rate, relaxes your muscles, increases your mind~body connection, raises your confidence levels, and creates a state of relaxed concentration… I call it The Circle of Excellence. Put in circle
For more details, please email info@chipowergolf.com or ring Jayne Storey +44 (0) 7986 447 250
Try this: Focus on your breathing while walking to the first tee to keep your inner voice quiet.
“So it happened……..I played in a competition on Saturday and won it! This is the first major competition I have ever won! I shot 1 over par and won by 2 shots. I used the Standing Meditation technique on the last 5 holes when I knew I had a good score. I can’t tell you how happy I am with the way I was able to control my emotions when the pressure was on, not least of all when I birdied the last the hole by sinking a 25ft putt”.
Jeremy – Recreational Golfer, Oxfordshire Read more client comments here.
36 ESSEX GOLF PARTNERSHIP
Essex Golf Introducing the
Crondon Park Golf Club one of our Six Centres
Funded by Sport England, The Partnership’s objective is to introduce the game of golf to beginners and encourage people to play golf more often. The Partnership works very closely with The Golf Foundation and Activeessex to assist in the delivery of strong county-wide support to clubs, golfers, schools and individuals looking to take up the game.
It has never been easier to get started... Our major new initiative for 2012 is the introduction of ‘official’ Get into Golf Centres. We currently have 8 centres although we have plans to expand. If you’re aged 16 or over and want to learn how to play golf or you want to brush down your clubs and start again. Now is your chance, all beginner adults are welcome. We are setting up a number of “official” Get into Golf Centres around the county. Throughout this year, each centre will be running 4 x 1 hour weekly group coaching sessions covering the basics of the game. You will be able choose between a mid-week or weekend session...and there’ll be plenty of space for everyone as there are two new groups every month to join. The Centres all have excellent beginner facilities including a driving range which is open for public/general use. • All equipment will be provided, just wear something comfortable. • Quality PGA Professional Tuition • Maximum Group size 8-10 • For just £12 for the 4 week course, how could you not give it a go. • New courses every month during 2012.
For further information or to book your place, please contact Playgolf Reception on 01206 843333 and quote “Get into Golf for £12” or Colchester@playgolfworld.com Crondon Park Golf Club, Stock, Ingatestone Every Thursday evening 7.00-8.00pm Every Saturday morning 10.00-11.00am For further information or to book your place, please call Chris Wood 07779 210375 or the driving range 01277 829083 North Weald Golf Club, nr Epping Every Thursday evening 8.00 - 9.00pm Every Saturday morning 9.00 - 10.00am For more information or to book your place please call Paul Sullivan 07768 698699 or email paulsullivan319@aol.com Garon Park Golf Complex, Southend-on-Sea Every Saturday morning 11.00am - 12.00 noon Every Sunday morning 11.00am - 12.00 noon Every Wednesday evening 7.00pm - 8.00pm For more information or to book your place, please call the Pro Shop on 01702 601701 (option1).
OUR EIGHT GET INTO GOLF CENTRES ARE: Playgolf Colchester Every Tuesday evening 6.00-7.00pm Every Saturday morning 9.00-10.00am & afternoon 2.00-3.00pm
TopGolf Chigwell Every Tuesday evening 7.00pm - 8.00pm Every Thursday afternoon 10.30pm - 12.00noon (ladies only) For more information or to book your place, please call PGA Pro, Kenny
Partnership an alliance between the Essex County Golf Union, The Essex Ladies County Golf Association and the Essex Professional Golfers’ Association.
Banks 07894 110185 or kenny.banks@topgolf.com
Large inflatable golf net (Southend)
Cranfield Golf Centre, Chadwell Heath Every Wednesday morning 11.45am - 12.45pm Every Sunday afternoon 2.15pm - 3.15pm For more information or to book your place, please call PGA Pro Adam Davison 07429 811528 ad@cga-golf.com or call 0208 5971220
Half sets of men’s, ladies & Junior clubs, left and right handed (bag, irons, woods, putter)
Ingrebourne Links Golf Complex, Rainham Every Monday evening 7.00-8.00pm Every Sunday evening 6.00-7.00pm For more information or to book your place, please contact the Pro Shop on 01708 552054 Rivenhall Oaks Golf Centre, Witham Every Wednesday afternoon 1.30-2.30pm Every Saturday afternoon 12.00-1.00pm For more information or to book your place, please contact the Pro Shop on 01376 510222
Tri-Golf & Golf Xtreme sets How Does it Work? All you need to do is contact our County Development Officer, Helen Tarttelin, who can offer you advice if required and arrange for local collection and return. Whilst this service is FREE, we will ask for a refundable deposit to ensure that the equipment is both returned in good condition and on time to allow for others to use. We also ask that a simple monitoring form is completed in order that we can measure how many and who are participating. (If you tell us in advance of your activity we can also promote it on our website).
FREE EQUIPMENT HIRE Introduction Golf equipment is expensive and not always available, so to help clubs and schools be able to offer golf, we are pleased to make this equipment available for short-term loan. Organisers can borrow the equipment FREE of CHARGE. Please tell your friends and colleagues. What’s Available for Hire? For convenience, we have four equipment stores based around the county, with the following equipment available:
WHO TO CONTACT? Please feel free to contact Helen Tarttelin, County Development Officer if you have any questions relating to these pages or any other golf development queries.
HELEN TARTTELIN helen@essexgolfpartnership.com 07971 097976
We are now available on your favorite portable devices — PC, Mac, iPad, Tablets, iPhone and Android.
40 COUNTY NEWS ESSEX GOLF UNION
Order of Merit 2012 Up to and including the Oliver Fisher Shield Club Order of Merit Events Name
Club
Points available
20
20
40
20
20
20
10
10
10
10
Points
KQ
KF
EAC
CT
RT
UT
TGT
SMBT
RS
OFS
9
10
10
5
7
Owen Pearl
Playgolf Colchester
118
5
4
39
10
11
20
Scott Brace
Stoke by Nayland
107
17
20
28
7
17
6
Jordan Slater
Playgolf Colchester
76
10
16
19
15
Jonathan Hewett
Clacton-on-Sea
72
13
James Allan
Chelmsford
70
2
Andy May
Boyce Hill
69
19
Daniel Rigby
Orsett
61
31
Bobby Keeble
Abridge
59
40
Thorndon Park
58
24
Abridge
58
24
Sam Crampton
Chelmsford
56
Andrew Reynolds
Benton Hall
53
Scott Hudson
Braintree
52
17
17
Orsett
50
19
17
Thomas Watkins
Crondon Park
49
15
4
Danny Carroll
The Essex
48
20
8
Jack Bennewith Reece Francis
Ales Woodward
13
24 33 12
4
31
48 47
Rochford Hundred
47
2
24
Arthur Leonard
Rochford Hundred
43
8
35
Steven Willett
Chelmsford
41
18
Thorndon Park
38
32
Thorndon Park
37
37
Clacton-on-Sea
37
37
West Essex
32
24
Samuel Teer Roy Gillman Liam Baker
7
31
5
Gareth Brown
Benton Hall
28
28
George Evans
Wanstead
28
Austyn Cambden
Stock Brook
26
Channels
25
13
12
Charlie Day
West Essex
25
17
8
Woolston Manor
25
25
Benjamin David
Colchester
21
9
Jake Bond
Wanstead
20
Jason Horne
Orsett
19
19
Tom Wiskin
Theydon Bois
19
16
17
Louis Lazarus
Abridge
17
10
19
15
7
11
4
8
6
2
1
8
1
10 6
10
26
6 20
3 18
14
7
9
18
Thomas Barker
Maylands
1
8 12
Sam Bray
15
6
17
18
10
19
15
15
18
6
17 15
29
Orsett
17
3
29
Stoke by Nayland
5
18
West Essex
Ian Carter
9
8
Chelmsford
Joe Kelly
20
19
Jonathan Christey
Ben Rose
6
11
Bentley
8
18
10
5
West Essex
Ben Horton
15
35
Billy Deville
James Court
11
9
38
Hugh Cambell Mitchell Sarling
7
4 17 7
10
6
Club Order of Merit Events
Order of Merit 2012 [ Continued ] Points available
20
20
40
20
20
20
10
10
10
10
Point
KQ
KF
EAC
CT
RT
UT
TGT
SMBT
RS
OFS
Name
Club
Steve Adkins
Stock Brook
16
Joe Ellis
Thorpe Hall
16
Todd Clements
16 5
Braintree
15
15
Daniel Garner
Romford
15
15
Sonny Martin
Thorndon Park
15
Chay Pratt
Frinton
14
2
Ian Moore
Maylands
13
9
Tony Ames
Maylands
12
Greg Claxton
Lords Rayleigh
12
Nick Elsom
Maylands
12
Barry Medcalf
Crondon Park
12
Channels
12
Josh Tobin
Langdon Hills
12
2
Scott Tuey
Maylands
12
8
Dominic Piccolo
12 4 12
8
4 4
4
10 4
West Essex
11
11
11
11
Lee Boyer
Romford
10
Jack Cook
Upminster
10
Alex Piccolo
Channels
10
9
Canons Brook
9
9
North Weald
9
9
Wanstead
7
Rochford Hundred
7
Ben Franklin Jamie Read
Frinton
7
Thorpe Hall
6
John Moncur
Woolston Manor
6
Lee Beagrie
Colne Valley
5
Christopher Grant
10 10
3
5
5 5
West Essex
3
Romford
3
Chelmsford
3
2
Abridge
3
2
West Essex
3
West Essex
2
Mitchell Wellington George Castle John Hanrahan
Boyce Hill
2
James McGilvray
Thorndon Park
2
Stock Brook
2
Abridge
1
Elliot Fullalove
Braintree
1
Ray Hallett
Langdon Hills
1
Colin Johnson
Hainault Forest
1
Abridge
1
Mason Papple Marc Brenner
Bobby Palmer
2
6
Braintree
Jordan Wallace
1 6
Crondon Park
Alasdair Plumb
4 4
Tom Wade
Steve Hazell
1
7
James Hedger
Ben Hayden
4
12
Burnham on Crouch
Jake Bacon
4
8
Jack Heasman
Tyler Wink
6
15
Tom Howard
Adam Winwood
5
5 5 3 3 1 1 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1
2012
WRAP UP
43 2012 WRAP UP ďšş COUNTY DINER COUNTY NEWS
COUNTY DINNER Colne Valley Golf Club 23rd November 2012
Hainault Presentation
County Dinner Guest 2012
Abridge - 2012 Thornton Challenge Cup Winners Our Annual Dinner was held at Colne Valley on Friday 23rd November and hosted by our County President, Mike Spall. Those who attended enjoyed a good meal and a lively toast to the Essex Golf Union from Roy Case, a Past President of the English Golf Union followed by hilarious entertainment by our guest speaker, Ian Richards. Mike Spall presented shields to Abridge who won the Thornton Cup, and Chelmsford who won the Leslie F. Wood Trophy. He also presented the Norman Plum Trophy to The Essex Golf and Country Club and the Allan Lockwood Trophy to Jamie Read of Frinton and James Russell of Colne Valley. They had agreed to share the trophy, the final having been abandoned due to torrential rain. David Parrett, President of the England Golf SE Group presented medals to our U18 Team who won the England Golf SE Boys Foursomes and to our Colts who won the England Golf SE Colts League and the Daily Telegraph Salver. We thank Colne Valley Golf Club for their excellent service.
44 COUNTY NEWS 2012 WRAP UP ORDER OF MERIT WINNER
Congratulations to Owen Pearl, Essex County Order of Merit Winner of 2012
46 COUNTY NEWS 2012 WRAP UP ďšş CLUB TEAM COMPETITION
Thornton Challenge Cup Thornton Challenge Cup Championship Winner | Abridge
Thornton Cup Plate Thornton Cup Plate Winner | Channels
Come and join us 18 hole Championship Course Willows Edge Par 3 Practise Course PGA run 14 bay floodlit driving range Relaxing clubhouse, bar and restaurant It’s great value being a member Call us for details 01277 841115
STOCK ROAD, STOCK, ESSEX CM4 9DP INFO@CRONDON.COM WWW.CRONDON.COM
ESSEX COUNTY DEVELOPMENT COACHES The Essex Golf Union is looking to appoint a small team of coaches tasked with driving participation and delivering coaching for children in the age group up to 12. The successful applicants will show evidence of: • Success in inspiring young people to take up the game of golf. • An enthusiastic and engaging coaching personality. • A willingness to contact schools and golf clubs to offer experience in golfing activities, and arrange competitions for youngsters who participate in the scheme. • Organisational and planning skills. • The ability to work with and inspire other coaches, managers, junior organisers and parents, working towards the stated aims. • An eagerness to develop their own coaching skills. The role will involve up to 50 hours of coaching and competition organisation, commencing in Spring 2013. Please apply in writing enclosing a CV to: ESSEX GOLF UNION LTD 2d Maldon road Witham Essex CM8 2AB or by email to: info@essexgolfunion.org Closing date is Friday 11th January 2013, with interviews late January.
49 2012 WRAP UP ďšş CLUB TEAM COMPETITION COUNTY NEWS
Leslie F Wood Championship Leslie F Wood Championship Winner | Chelmsford
Leslie F Wood Plate Leslie F Wood Plate Winner | Maylands
51 2012 WRAP UPďšş CLUB TEAM COMPETITION COUNTY NEWS
Essex Seniors Team Championship Essex Seniors Team Championship Winner | Bentley
Norman Plum Trophy Norman Plum Trophy Winner | The Essex
So you think you know the rules?
ESSEX GOLF UNION RULES OF PRESENTATIONS Why not have the County Rules Team visit your Club for a presentation on the RULES OF GOLF For more information call the County Office on 01376 500998 Or email info@essexgolfunion.org
RULES SEMINAR & EXAMINATION For Potential Club & County Rules Officials
Seminar | Monday 8th April 2013 Examination | Monday 13th May 2013 At Crondon Park Golf Club
Further details and an application form can be obtained from your Club Secretary/Manager or on the Essex Golf Union website www.essexgolfunion.org Closing date for applications Friday 22 March 2013
54 COUNTY NEWS 2012 WRAP UPďšş CHAMPIONSHIP
KEATING TROPHY
CHIGWELL BOWL & COLTS
Keating Trophy Winner | Scott Brace (Stoke by Nayland)
Chigwell Bowl & Colts Winner | Arthur Leonard (Rochford Hundred)
HERBERT BISHOP VASE
VETERANS TROPHIES
Herbert Bishop Vase Winner | Stapleford Abbotts
Veterans Trophies Winner | Jim Fern (Five Lakes)
55 2012 WRAP UP CHAMPIONSHIP COUNTY NEWS
SENIORS CHAMPIONSHIP
AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP
Seniors Championship Winner | Geoff King (West Essex)
Amateur Championship Winner | Bobby Keelble (Abridge)
CLIFFORD TROPHY
ROMFORD TROPHY
Clifford Trophy Winner | Jake Bond (Wanstead)
Romford Trophy Winner | James Allan (Chelmsford)
56 COUNTY NEWS 2012 WRAP UP CHAMPIONSHIP
UPMINSTER TROPHY ALLAN LOCKWOOD Upminster Trophy Winner | Ian Carter (Stoke by Nayland)
Allan Lockwood Trophy Winner | Jamie Read (Frinton) & James Bussell (Colne Valley)
FOURSOMES CHAMPIONSHIPS Foursomes Championships Winner | Alex Woodward & Mark Whiten (Orsett)
THE THINGS WE OWN TELL STORIES ABOUT US
Our jeans are the first in the world to have HistoryTag. A way of attaching memories to your stuff.
58 COUNTY NEWS 2012 WRAP UP JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP
BOYS CHAMPIONSHIP Boys Championship Winner | Mitchel Sarling (Rochford Hundred)
C AREER OPPOR TUNITIES
ESSEX GOLF UNION COUNTY GOLF ADMINISTRATOR Due to a restructure in the administration of the Essex Golf Union, applications are invited for the post of full time County Golf Administrator. Essex has 78 affiliated clubs with some 25,000 members. The County Office acts as liaison between the clubs and England Golf. The successful candidate will need to be able to demonstrate good: • • • • •
Office Administrational skills. Computer and IT skills with a sound knowledge of Microsoft Office Awareness of golf and all its traditions. Excellent communication skills. Basic financial awareness.
Salary is negotiable on applicant’s experience. All applications and CV’s will be held in the strictest confidence and should be forwarded to: The Secretary ESSEX GOLF UNION 2d Maldon Road Witham Essex CM8 2AB Closing date for applications: Friday 18th January 2013
60 COUNTY NEWS 2012 WRAP UP JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP
BOYS FOURSOME CHAMPIONSHIP Boys Foursome Championship Winner | Todd Clements & Scott Hudson (Braintree)
UNDER 12 CHAMPIONSHIP BRIAN FULLER TROPHY Under 12 Champhionship Winner | Michael Gilbert (Woolston Manor)
Brian Fuller Trophy Winner | Harriet Lynch (Thorndon Park )
61 2012 WRAP UP JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP COUNTY NEWS
UNDER 14 CHAMPIONSHIP & FRED STILLWELL Under 14 Championship & Fred Stillwell Trophy Winner | Dylan Mahmut (Romford)
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66 ESSEX GOLF UNION HISTORY
First We Take Romford, Then We Take The World: President Mike Spall talks us through the Proud History of The Essex Golf Union
I
t was on a blustery late February day in 1924 that amateur golfers from Woodford to Wanstead, from Ilford to Boyce Hill, mustered their forces at Romford Golf Club united in the sole aim of promoting and developing amateur golf in their county. Representatives from no less than sixteen clubs gathered here on this historic day, and, after several ales, The Essex Golf Union was born. Under the watchful eye of First President of The Union and Captain of Wanstead Golf Club, J. J. Esplen, the members set about arranging a competition. The first arranged by the Union was a 36 holes medal, which became the Essex Amateur Championship, and was open to members of all Essex Clubs with a handicap of 12 or under. In 1924 Mr.C.Law (club unknown) was the first ever Essex Amateur Champion. The Championship continued to be played over 36 holes until 1955 when it was expanded to its current format of 72 holes. Early Minutes of the Union Committee Meetings reveal that
a number of notable people including Sir Winston Churchill, T. A. Torrance (Captain Walker Cup Team), Bernard Darwin and the Lord Chief Justice were all invited to the Union’s Annual Dinners on various occasions. We can only assume Churchill himself was more interested in the ale than the golf, given he once described his experience of playing the game as “Like chasing a quinine pill around a cow pasture.” The Essex Golf Union has gone from strength to strength over the years, never faltering in its aim to promote, encourage and inspire Essex amateur golfers. The creation of many more competitions and trophies is testament to this- The Veterans Trophy (Est. 1927), The Boys Championship (Est. 1932), and The Youth Shield (Est. 1951) to name but a few. This patronage and local encouragement has led to notable successes with Essex at a national level. (See subsection 1. Notable Firsts)
“[Playing golf] is like chasing a quinine pill around a cow pasture� Winston Churchill
9
68 ESSEX GOLF UNION HISTORY Throughout the years we have produced many outstanding players. In the 1950/60’s there was Ken Budd of West Essex and Sir Michael Bonallack of Thorpe Hall. The record of Sir Michael was quite outstanding and he was perhaps the greatest amateur of modern times winning the Essex County Championship 9 times from 1954, and a multitude of regional and national accolades culminating in his tenure as President of the English Golf Union and rightfully inducted into The World Golf Hall of Fame in 2001. In recent years we have continued to help, encourage and develop many golfers that have fared well both in amateur ranks and, later, professionally. (See Subsection 2. Current Successful Players) In line with its objectives, The Essex Golf Union is proud to promote Golf at its highest level. We currently run Teams at under 14, under 16, under 18, colts (under 21), full County Team and Seniors (over 55’s.) In addition we have a wide range of coaching programmes to suit all levels, ages and abilities. We also arrange a number of County Competitions, including The Keating Trophy, The Cliffords Trophy and The Chigwel Bowl, and organise various Club Team Events. (See Subsection 3. Tournaments) With an extremely talented team and incredible amounts of dedication and hard work, golf in our county has gone from strength to strength, and in 2009 we saw the most well deserved success when we were crowned the English County Champions for the first time. Though we have a long and distinguished history, there has never been a more promising and exciting time in Essex Golf, and in conjunction with our global media partners Think Sports Media Ltd, we are putting every resource into ensuring further success in the future.
Notable county firsts 1971- For the first time since the competition was inaugurated in 1928 the Essex County Team gained first place in the S.E. Group qualifying competition for the English County Championship, defeating Surrey,
Sussex, Hampshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Norfolk, Middlesex, Kent and B.B. & O. in a tremendously exciting finish at Northwood G. C. on 31st July 1971. In the final Staffordshire only narrowly beat Essex.
1997 – For the second time in its history the County team gained first place in the S.E group qualifying competition for the English County Championship.
1997 – For the first time in the history of ECAGU the boys won the English Boys County Championship. The Boys Team also won the S.E. Foursomes Championship.
2009
– For the first time in our history the County Team won the English Men’s County Championship. The Team was Matt Southgate, Jack Winer, James Webber, Andy Shakespeare, Ross Dee, Ross Spurgeon and Jay Beiser. In addition Dale Whitnell played in the qualifying event but had turned professional before the final.
Current success Notable examples are the Walker Cup Players Richard McEvoy, Oliver Fisher and Dale Whitnell. We currently have Simon Khan, Lloyd Kennedy, Richard McEvoy, Matt Southgate , Oliver Fisher and Robbie Coles on the European Tour, Dale Whitnell and Dan Brooks on the Challenge Tour and many promising players who are progressing through the lower ranked professional tours. In addition we have Geoff King of West Essex who won the English Seniors Championship and who represents England Internationally, Jack Heasman who has represented England at Junior level and Jack Hiluta who has also represented England.
Tournaments One of the key people who over the years has helped define our history Michael Bonallack
1982 President English Golf Union 1983/89 Secretary, Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews 1991 The Gerald Micklem Award Presented for his outstanding contribution to the interests of Amateur Golf in England 1999/2000 Captain, Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews 2001 Inducted into the World Of Golf Hall Of Fame Appointed President of The Golf Foundation
County Tournaments – The Keating Trophy, The Cliffords Trophy, The Chigwell Bowl, The Romford Trophy, and The Upminster Bowl. Club Team events – The Thorton Cup, an interclub knockout played off scratch. There is also the Leslie Wood Trophy an interclub knockout for players with handicaps of 7.5 or over, The Seniors Knockout for players over the age of 55, the Youth Sheild – a competition for under 18’s, the initial rounds of which are played on a zonal basis, the Norman Plum Trophy – a knockout competition for category 3 and 4 players. The Essex Match Play Championship (Allan Lockwood Trophy) a knockout competition which is open to players over 18 with a handicap of less than 28 and is played off handicap. We also run The Essex Foursomes Championships and the Boys Foursomes Championship which are played off scratch, and not forgetting the Mullis Foursomes which is open to all handicaps.
Ashwells Sports & Country Club
There are certain occasions in life when every possible effort must be made to create the perfect day to look back on. The wedding celebration is one such occasion when attention to detail makes all the difference. Set in the gentle quietness of the Essex countryside yet just two miles from the M25 Brentwood and only seven miles from historic Ongar, Ashwells Country Club is the perfect location for your big day. Ashwells prides itself on being one of the finest wedding venues in Essex with over 20 years of experience hosting wedding breakfasts and receptions. Ashwells is one of the most idyllic venues for your wedding reception and for civil marriage ceremonies with many bookings coming from personal recommendation. Ashwells has two main areas for wedding celebrations, The Club House which is situated with a poolside terrace on one side and sweeping lawns to the other, and The Willow Room which provides an exquisite setting for both the wedding breakfast and reception party in the evening Ashwells can sit up to 100 guests and 250 guests party buffet style and when the wedding reception does begin what better setting can guests enjoy than taking a breath of fresh air in our beautiful landscaped gardens.
The surroundings alone make Ashwells the perfect spot for that special celebration–whether it’s a wedding, anniversary or company reception they are all given that extra touch of class. The friendly staff are available to offer advice on every aspect of your wedding day from local register offices to assistance with creating a personalised wedding menu for you and your guests. Also available are Weekday and Weekend Special and De-Luxe packages to suit all budgets. . Feel free to call on 01277 373828 to book your personal viewing. www.ashwells.co.uk
Weekday Weddings 50 daytime guests 100 evening guests Wedding Packages From £3,895* Inc VAT
Weekend Weddings 60 daytime guests 120 evening guests Wedding Packages From £5,095* Inc VAT
70 ESSEX GOLF UNION VENUES
2012 Tournament Venues
Chelmsford - Essex Seniors Championship Chelmsford – Senior Trophy
Upminster – Upminster Trophies
Chigwell – Chigwell Bowl & Colt’s Championship
Crondon Park – Keating Trophy
Colne Valey – Essex Boys Championship
Romford – Romford Trophy
Canons Brook – Essex Amateur Championship
Union
ESSEX GOLF
THE 2012
BLACKBOOK DIRECTORY
BLACK BOOK AZ LISTINGS
A ABRIDGE Epping Lane Stapleford Tawney Romford RM4 1ST Sec:: 01708 688396 Pro: 01708 688333 Email: info@abridgegolf.com Website: www.abridgegolf.com
B BALLARDS GORE Gore Road Canewdon Rochford SS4 2DA Sec: 01702 258917 Pro: 01702 258924 Fax: 01702 258571 Email: info@ballardsgore.com Website: www.ballardsgore.com BASILDON CLAY HILL Basildon SS16 5JP Hon Secretary: Mr G Eaton Sec: 01268 533297 Members: 01268 533297 Pro: 01268 533532 Email: basildongc@uk6.net Website: www.basildongolfclub.org.uk BELFAIRS Eastwood Road North Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4LR Hon Secretary: Mr H Brown Email: info@belfairsgolfclub.co.uk Sec: 01702 615642 Members: 01702 526911 Pro: 01702 525345 Website: www.belfairsgolfclub.co.uk BELHUS PARK Belhus Park Municipal Club Golf Course Avely By-pass South Ockendon RM14 4QR Hon Secretary: Mr D.(David) Clifford Club: 01375 411136 Sec: 07765 396903 Pro: 01708 854260 Email: dclifford@blueyonder.co.uk Website: www.belhusparkgc.co.uk
BENTLEY GOLF CLUB ONGAR ROAD Pilgrims Hatch Brentwood Essex CM15 9SS Sec: 01277 373179 Pro: 01277 372933 Fax: 01277 375097 Email: secretary@bentleygolfclub.com Website: www.bentleygolfclub.com BENTON HILL Wickham Hill Witham CM8 3LH Sec: 01376 502454 Pro: 01376 502454 Fax: 01376 521050 Email: s.clark@theclubcompany.com Website: www.theclubcompany.com BIRCH GROVE Layer Road Kingsford Colchester Fax: CO2 OHS Sec: 01206 734276 Pro: 01206 734276 Email: maureen@birchgrove.fsbusiness. co.uk Website: www.birchgrovegolfclub.co.uk BLAKES Epping Road North Weald Epping CM16 6RZ Sec: 01992 525151 Pro: Fax: 01992 525153 Email: info@blakesgolfclub.com Website: www.blakesgolfclub.com BOYCE HILL 125 Vicarage Hill South Benfleet SS7 1PD Sec: 01268 793625 Pro: 01268 752565 Fax: 01268 750497 Email: secretary@boycehillgolfclub.co.uk Website: www.boycehillgolfclub.co.uk BRAINTREE Kings Lane Stisted Braintree CM77 8DD Sec: 01376 346079 Pro: 01376 343465 Fax: 01376 348677 Email: manager@braintreegolfclub.co.uk Website: www.braintreegolfclub.co.uk
BRAXTED PARK Braxted Park Witham CM8 3EN Sec: 01376 572372 Pro: 01376 572372 Fax: 01376 572372 Email: golf@braxtedpark.com Website: www.braxtedpark.com BRENTWOOD D Warley Gap Brentwood Essex CM13 3DP Tel: 01277 205809 BUNSAY DOWNS Little Baddow Road Woodham Walter Maldon CM9 6RW Sec: 01245 222648 Pro: Fax: BURNHAM-ON-CROUCH Ferry Road Creeksea Burnham-on-Crouch CM10 8PQ Sec: 01621 782282 Pro: 01621 782282 Fax: 01621 784489 Email: info@burnhamgolfclub.co.uk Website: www.burnhamgolfclub.co.uk
C CANONS BROOK Elizabeth Way Harlow CM19 5BE Sec: 01279 421482 Pro: 01279 418357 Fax: 01279 626393 Email: sjl.canonsbrook@btconnect.com Website: www.canonsbrook.com CASTLE POINT Somes Avenue Canvey Island SS8 9FG Sec: 01268 510830 Pro: 01268 510830 Email: belindadekoster@hotmail.com Website: www.castlepointgolfclub.co.uk
www.essexgolfunion.org AC BLACK BOOK
CHINGFORD GOLF DRIVING RANGE D 293 Waltham Way Chingford E4 8AQ Tel: 0208 5292409
CHANNELS Farm Lane Little Waltham Chelmsford CM3 3PT Sec: 01245 440005 Pro: 01245 441056 Fax: 01245 442032 Email: info@channelsgolf.co.uk Website: www.channelsgolf.co.uk
CLACTON-ON-SEA West Road Clacton-on-Sea CO15 1AJ Sec: 01255 421919 Pro: 01255 426304 Fax: 01255 424602 Email: manager@clactongolfclub.com Website: www.clactongolfclub.com COLCHESTER D Old Ipswich Road Ardleigh Colchester Essex CO7 7QR Tel: 01206 230974 COLCHESTER 21 Braiswick Colchester CO4 5AU Sec: 01206 853396 Pro: 01206 853920 Fax: 01206 852698 Email: secretary@colchestergolfclub.com Website: www.colchestergolfclub.com
CHELMSFORD Widford Road Chelmsford Essex CM2 9AP Sec: 01245 256483 option 1 Pro: 01245 257079 Email: office@chelmsfordgc.co.uk Website: wwwchelmsfordgc.co.uk
CHIGWELL The Clubhouse High Road Chigwell IG7 5BH Sec: 020 8500 2059 Pro: 020 8500 2384 Fax: 020 8501 3410 Email: info@chigwellgolfclub.co.uk Website: www.chigwellgolfclub.co.uk CHINGFORD 158 Station Road Chingford London E4 7RL Sec: Members: 020 8529 2107 Pro Shop: 020 8529 5708 Fax: 020 8529 8878 Email: chingfordgolfclub@yahoo.com
CRONDON PARK Stock Road Stock CM4 9DP Sec: 01277 841115 Pro: 01277 843027 Fax: 01277 841356 Email: info@crondon.com Website: www.crondon.com
CROWLANDS HEATH Wood Lane Dagenham RM8 1JX Sec: 020 8984 7373 Pro: 020 8984 7373 Fax: 020 8984 0505 Email: info@crowlandsheath.co.uk Website: www.crowlandsheath.co.uk
E
COLNE VALLEY Station Road Earls Colne Colchester CO6 2LT Sec: 01787 224343 Pro: 01787 224343 Fax: 01787 224126 Email: info@colnevalleygolfclub.co.uk Website: www.colnevalleygolfclub.co.uk CRANFIELD D Whalebone Lane Chadwell Heath Essex RM6 6SB Tel: 020 8597 1120
ELSENHAM Hall Road Elsenham Bishops Stortford CM22 6DH Sec: 01279 812865 Pro: Fax: Email: info@elsenhamgolfandleisure.co.uk Website: www.egcltd.co.uk
D = Driving Range
75
BLACK BOOK AZ LISTINGS
EPPING Flux’s Lane Epping CM16 7PE Sec: 01992 572282 Pro: 01992 572282 Fax: 01992 575512 Email: info@eppinggolfcourse.org.uk Website: www.eppinggolfcourse.org.uk EPPING GOLF RANGE D UK GOLF ACADEMY Upland Rd Thornwood Epping CM16 6NL Tel: +44 (0) 1992 570707 Email: enquiries@ukgolfacademy.com Website: www.ukgolfacademy.com
F FAIRLOP WATERS Forest Road Barkingside Ilford IG6 3HN Sec: 020 8500 9911 Pro: 020 8501 1881 Fax: 020 8501 4316 Email: aabel@vision-rcl.org.uk Website: www.fairlopwaters.info FIVE LAKES Colchester Road Tolleshunt Knights Maldon CM9 8HX Sec: 01621 868888 Pro: 01621 862426 Fax: 01621 869696 Email: golfoffice@cpcolchester.co.uk Website: www.cpcolchester.co.uk FORRESTER PARK Beckingham Road Great Totham Maldon CM9 8EA Sec: 01621 891406 Pro: 01621 862326 Fax: 01621 891406 Email: info@forresterparkltd.com Website: www.forresterparkltd.com FRINTON 1 The Esplanade Frinton-on-Sea CO13 9EP Sec: 01255 674618 Pro: 01255 682456 Fax: 01255 682450 Email: thesecretary@frintongolfclub.com Website: www.frintongolfclub.com
G GARON PARK Garon Park Eastern Avenue Southend-on-Sea SS2 4FA Sec: 01702 601701 Pro: 01702 601701 Fax: 01702 601033 Email: debbie@garonparkgolf.co.uk Website: www.garonparkgolf.co.uk
HARWICH & DOVERCOURT Station Road Parkeston Harwich CO12 4NZ Sec: 01255 503616 Pro: Fax: 01255 503323 Email: secretary@harwichanddovercourt golfclub.com Website: www.harwichanddovercourtgolfclub.com
GOSFIELD LAKE Hall Drive Gosfield Halstead CO9 1SE Sec: 01787 474747 Pro: 01878 474488 Fax: 01787 476044 Email: gosfieldlakegc@btconnect.com Website: www.gosfield-lake-golf-club.co.uk
H HAINAULT FOREST Romford Road Chigwell Row IG7 4QW Sec: 020 8500 0385 Pro: 020 8500 2131 Fax: 020 8501 0163 Email: david.cope@hainaultgolf.co.uk Website: www.hainaultgolf.co.uk HAMFORD VIEW D Harwich CO12 5JJ Tel: 01255 886892 HARTSWOOD King George’s Playing Field Ingrave Road Brentwood CM14 5AE Sec: 01277 218850 Pro: 01277 214830 Fax: 01277 218850
HOCKLEY GOLF RANGE D Aldermans Hill Hockley SS5 4RP Tel: 01702 207 218 HYLANDS Main Road Ingatestone CM4 0ET Sec: 01277 356016 Pro: 01277 356016 Fax: 01277 356056 Email: info@hylands-gc.com Website: www.hylands-gc.com
I ILFORD 291 Wanstead Park Road Ilford IG1 3TR Sec: 020 8554 2930 Pro: 020 8554 0094 Fax 020 8554 0822 Email: info@ilfordgolfclub.com Website: www.ilfordgolfclub.com LANGDON HILLS Lower Dunton Road Bulphan RM14 3TY Club: 01268 548444 Pro: 01268 544300 Fax: 01268 490084 Email: secretary@golflangdon.co.uk Website: www.golflangdon.co.uk D = Driving Range
www.essexgolfunion.org
L LEIGH D Leigh Marshes Leigh On Sea SS9 2E Tel: 01702 710586 LEXDEN WOOD Bakers Lane Colchester CO3 4AU Sec: 01206 843333 Pro: 01206 843333 Fax 01206 854775 Email: secretary@lexdenwood.com Website: www.lexdenwood.com LORDS RAYLEIGH Hullbridge Road Rayleigh SS6 9QS Sec: 01702 232377 Fax: 01702 233725 Email: reception@lordscountryclub.com Website: www.lordscountryclub.com LOUGHTON Clay Lane Debden Green Loughton Essex IG10 2RZ Sec: 020 8502 2923 Email: tmarson@loughtongolfclub.co.uk Website: www.loughtongolfclub.co.uk
M MALDON Beeleigh Langford Maldon CM9 4SS Sec: 01621 853212 Fax: 01621 855232 Email: maldon.golf@virgin.net Website: www.maldon-golf.co.uk MARDYKE VALLEY South Road South Ockendon RM15 6RR Sec: 01708 855011 Fax: 01708 855011 Email: secretary@mardykevalley.co.uk Website: www.mardykevalley.co.uk
MAYLANDS Colchester Road Harold Park Romford RM3 0AZ Sec: 01708 341777 Fax: 01708 343777 Email: maylands@maylandsgolf.com Pro: 01708 346466 Website: www.maylandsgolf.com MILLERS BARN Jaywick Lane Clacton-on-Sea CO15 2PH Sec: 01255 424826 Website: www.millersbarngolf.co.uk
N NAZEING Middle Street Nazeing EN9 2LW Sec: 01992 893915 Pro: 01992 893798 Fax: 01992 893882 Email: proshop@robgreen.co.uk Website: www.nazeinggolfclub.co.uk NORTH WEALD Rayley Lane North Weald Epping CM16 6AR Sec: 01992 522118 Pro: 01992 522118 Fax: 01992 522881 Email: info@northwealdgolfclub.co.uk Website: www.northwealdgolfclub.co.uk
R RAYLEIGH D London Road Rawreth Wickford Essex SS11 8TZ Tel: 01268 781706 Email: rayleigh @discountgolfstore.co.uk Website: www.discountgolfstore.co.uk REGIMENT WAY Back Lane Little Waltham Chelmsford CM3 3PR Sec: 01245 361100 Fax: 01245 442032 Email: info@regimentway.co.uk Website: www.regimentway.co.uk RISEBRIDGE Risebridge Chase Lower Bedfords Road Romford RM1 4DG Hon-Secretary: Mr P Wells Club: 01708 727376 Pro: 01708 741429 Website: www.risebridgegolfclub.co.uk RIVENHALL OAKS Forest Road Witham CM8 2PS Sec: 01376 510222 Fax: 01376 510932 Email: info@rivenhalloaksgolf.co.uk Website: www.rivenhalloaksgolf.co.uk
THE NOTLEYS The Green White Notley Braintree CM8 1RG Sec: 01376 329328 Pro: 01376 329328 Email: info.notleysgolfclub.co.uk Website: www.notleysgolfclub.co.uk
O ORSETT Brentwood Road Orsett RM16 3DR Sec: 01375 891352 Pro: 01375 891797 Fax: 01375 892471 Email: enquiries@orsettgolfclub.co.uk Website: www.orsettgolfclub.com
ROCHFORD HUNDRED Rochford Hall Hall Road Rochford SS4 1NW Sec: 01702 544302 Pro: 01702 548968 Fax: 01702 541343 Email: admin@rochfordhundredgolfclub. co.uk Website: www.rochfordhundredgolfclub. co.uk
D = Driving Range
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BLACK BOOK AZ LISTINGS
ROMFORD Heath Drive Gidea Park Romford RM2 5QB Sec: 01708 740986 Pro: 01708 749393 Fax: 01708 752147 Email: info@romfordgolfclub.co.uk Website: www.romfordgolfclub.com ROYAL EPPING Forest Approach Forest Chingford London E4 7AZ Sec: 020 8529 2195 Pro: 020 8529 5708 Fax: 020 8559 4664 Email: office@refgc.co.uk Website: www.refgc.co.uk
S ST CLERES HALL London Road Stanford le Hope SS17 0LX Sec: 01375 673007 Fax: 01375 361565 Email: events.stcleres@hotmail.co.uk Website: www.stcleresgolf.co.uk SOUTHEND-ON-SEA Belfairs Lodge Belfairs Park Leigh-on-sea SS9 4LN Hon. Sec. N Blenkinsop Email: iansouthgate@gmail.com Sec: 01702 473206 Pro Shop: 01702 525345 Website: www.southendgolfclub.co.uk SOUTH ESSEX Brentwood Road Herongate CM13 3LW Sec: 01277 811289 Website: www.southessexgolf.co.uk Email: southessex@crown-golf.co.uk STAPLEFORD ABBOTTS Horsemans Side Tysea Hill Stapleford Abbotts Romford RM4 1JU Sec: 01708 381108 Pro: 01708 381108 Fax: 01708 386345 Email: staplefordabbotts@crown-golf.co.uk Website: www.staplefordabbottsgolf.co.uk
STOCK BROOK Queens Park Avenue Billericay CM12 OSP Dir.of Golf 01277 653616 Stock Pro: 01277 658181 Fax: 01277 633063 Email: craigl@stockbrook.com Website: www.stockbrook.com STOKE BY NAYLAND Keepers Lane Leavenheath Colchester Essex C06 4PZ Sec: 01206 265815 Pro shop: 01206 265812 Fax: 01206 265840 Email: golfsecretary@stokebynayland.com Website: www.stokebynayland.com SWINGFIELD FAMILY D GOLF CENTRE Steeple Rd Latchingdon Chelmsford Essex CM3 6LD Tel: 01621 744474
T THE BELVEDERE D Hardings Elms Road Crays Hill Billericay Essex, CM11 2UH Tel: 01268 286612 THE BURSTEAD Tye Common Road Little Burstead Billericay CM12 9SS Sec: 01277 631171 Pro: 01277 631171 Fax: 01277 632766 Email: info@thebursteadgolfclub.com Website: www.thebursteadgolfclub.com THE ESSEX GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Earls Colne Airfield Earls Colne nr. Colchester Essex C06 2NS Sec: 01787 224466 Pro: 01787 224466 Fax: 01787 224410 Email: i.cocker@theclubcompany.com Website: www.theclubcompany.com
THE WARREN Woodham Walter Maldon CM9 6RW Sec: 01245 223258 Pro: 01245 224662 Email: enquiries@warrengolfclub.co.uk Website: www.warrengolfclub.co.uk Fax: 01245 223989 THEYDON BOIS Theydon Road Epping CM16 4EH Sec: 01992 813054 Pro: 01992 812460 Fax: 01992 815602 Email: theydonboisgolf@btconnect.com Website: www.theydongolf.co.uk THORNDON PARK Thorndon Park Ingrave Brentwood CM13 3RH Sec: 01277 810345 Pro: 01277 810736 Fax: 01277 810645 Email: office@thorndonpark.com Website: www.thorndonparkgolfclub.com THORPE HALL Thorpe Hall Avenue Thorpe Bay SS1 3AT Sec: 01702 582205 Pro: 01702 588195 Fax: 01702 584498 Email: fe@thorpehallgc.co.uk Website: www.thorpehallgc.co.uk THREE RIVERS Stow Road Cold Norton Purleigh Chelmsford CM3 6RR Sec: 01621 828631 Pro: 01621 828631 Fax: 01621 828060 Email: info@threeriversclub.com Website: www.threeriversclub.com TIPTREE D Newbridge Road Tiptree Colchester Essex CO5 0HZ Tel: 01621 819374
D = Driving Range
www.essexgolfunion.org
TOOT HILL School Road Toot Hill Ongar CM5 9PU Sec: 01277 365523 Pro: 01277 365747 Fax: 01277 364509 Email: office@toothillgolfclub.co.uk Website: www.toothillgolfclub.co.uk TOP GOLF GAME CENTRE D Abridge Road Chigwell Essex IG7 6BX Tel: +44 (0) 20 8500 2644 TOP MEADOW Fen Lane North Ockendon Upminster RM14 3PR Pro: 01708 859545 Sec: 01708 852239 Fax: 01708 852598 Email: info@topmeadow.co.uk Website: www.topmeadow.co.uk TOWERLANDS PARK Panfield Road Braintree Essex CM7 5BJ Sec: 01376 342681 Club: 01376 326802 Fax: 01376 552487 Email: info@unextowerlandscentre.com Website: www.unextowerlandscentre.com
U UPMINSTER 114 Hall Lane Upminster RM14 1AU Pro: 01708 220000 Fax: 01708 222484 Email: secretary@upminstergolfclub.co.uk Website www.upminstergolfclub.co.uk W WANSTEAD Overton Drive Wanstead London E11 2LW Sec: 020 8989 3938 Pro: 020 8989 3938 Fax: 020 8532 9138 Email: wgclub@aol.com Website: www.wansteadgolf.org.uk
WARLEY PARK Magpie Lane Little Warley Brentwood CM13 3DX Sec: 01277 224891 Pro: 01277 200441 Fax: 01277 200679 Email: enquiries@warleyparkgc.co.uk Website: www.warleyparkgc.co.uk WEALD PARK Coxtie Green Road South Weald Brentwood Sec: 01277 375101 Pro: Fax: 01277 374888 CM14 5RJ Email: info@wealdpark.net Website: www.wealdpark.net WEST ESSEX Bury Road Chingford London E4 7QL Sec: 020 8529 7558 Pro: 020 8529 4367 Fax: 020 8524 7870 Email: sec@westessexgolfclub.co.uk Website: www.westessexgolfclub.co.uk
If you would like to list your company, organisation or venue with us please send us an email or call Rob Jarvis on: rob@thinksportsmedia.com M: 07514 334045 T: 0208 123 1073
WOODFORD 2 Sunset Avenue Woodford Green IG8 0ST Sec: 020 8504 3330 Pro: 020 8504 4254 Fax: 020 8559 0504 Email: office@woodfordgolf.co.uk Website: www.woodfordgolf.co.uk WOOLSTON MANOR Abridge Road Chigwell IG7 6BX Sec: 020 8500 2549 Pro: 020 8500 2549 Fax: 020 8501 5452 Email: bradley@woolstonmanor.com Website: www.woolstonmanor.co.uk WOODHAM MORTIMER D Burnham Road, Woodham Mortimer CM9 6SR Tel: 01245 222276 Email: ian.moss@btconnect.com
D = Driving Range
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THINK SPORTS MEDIA LTD. Group Managing Director – Marcus Bain Marcus@thinksportsmedia.com Operations Director – Camilla Bowry Camilla@thinksportsmedia.com
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