MEMBERS NEWSLETTER
OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2025
RENOVATIONS
Our autumn renovations began on Tuesday, 2nd September, when we completed our main annual renovation day across the Main and Shey Course Greens. This involved scarification, hollow coring and back-filling with sand across the greens on both courses. On both the Main and the Shey, we scarified to a depth of 5mm, then hollow cored to a depth of 75mm, removing a 10mm core at a spacing of 62.5mm. We then worked sand into the holes. The weather wasn’t on our side, with the summer drought deciding to finally end on the same day as we had planned our greens renovations. Nonetheless, the greenkeeping team did a fantastic job in pressing on and completing what needed to be done.
The process we followed removes thatch from the greens, and having sand in the holes allows for better percolation as well as allowing oxygen to enter the rootzone more easily, which can
AN UPDATE FROM... SARAH BLUNDEN
General Manager
Hi Everyone
Another glorious summer has come to a close, and what a great summer it was! Full of competitions, events, and lots and lots of sunshine!
With the temperatures beginning to drop and the light drawing back in, we now turn our attention to the autumn and winter Seasons ahead.
feed beneficial bacteria and fungi. Having lots of columns of sand in the upper profile helps to firm up the surface and will allow rainfall to enter the profile further down more easily. The long-term benefits should be firmer, drier greens all year round.
Thank you for your patience during the recovery period following this essential work.
PRESSURES
The warm, wet weather we saw at the end of September and forecasted for the start of October means that disease pressure is extremely high. You may well have noticed mushrooms popping up around your own gardens or in woodlands? This is a good indicator as to how conditions are for other fungi, as both mushrooms and turf disease relish such humid conditions in these autumn months. Barry and his team have been out since the start of September with a rigorous
spraying programme to limit the risk of disease breakout. We, and all golf courses, will see some form of disease across the year, with the spraying programme we have in place aimed at ensuring the health of the greens, limiting the extent of any disease and aiding quick recovery if needed. We will continue to very carefully monitor the weather conditions to ensure that we are putting down what is needed and at the right time for it to have the biggest impact.
WEATHER STATION
As a reminder, we have our own onsite weather station, which allows us to see in detail not just what weather we have had, but also its effect on things like evapotranspiration. Such detailed information allows us to make accurate responses to our spraying and watering patterns, through knowing the exact conditions our soil and turf are in across our courses.
It is via this weather station that we can record such detailed weather patterns, including the fact that this April - August was the driest since our own records began 21 years ago, and with the Met Office reporting it as the driest summer in over 50 years. April - August 2025 recorded just 123mm, the lowest rainfall during these months and 45% less rainfall than average.
Across the summer months, I had several members questioning why we weren’t watering our Fairways. At Hoebridge, we are extremely lucky to have a reservoir where we know we have enough water stored to comfortably water our greens, tees and approaches. We do not draw from mains
water at all to irrigate any part of our 45 holes. Not drawing from mains water is something we are very proud of, and it also helps to give us confidence around future irrigation needs.
There are, of course, golf clubs that still have direct access to mains water to irrigate fairways and supplement their stored supplies (drawn from bore holes, streams, rivers, etc). While these courses have connectivity now, all golf sustainability forums agree that due to climate change, these facilities will come to an end in the not-too-distant future. Water companies are already identifying (and lobbying) that costly treated water is simply being poured back onto land (golf courses), which impacts the life and livelihoods of agriculture, industry and medical care that requires water for all our benefit. Golf clubs with connectivity now have an advantage, but this will be short-lived. Several clubs, known to me, with mains access are rightly concerned about their future summer presentations if mains use is prevented and they have no ‘Plan B’.
Our focus and attention to course presentation remain constant throughout the year, come rain or shine, frost or fog. However, fairway irrigation is not a sustainable way of managing a golf course, and the risk of future removal of this option is far too great for us to look to implement it. Rather, we will ensure that our greens, tees and approaches have the appropriate irrigation in place to be maintained across the driest of summers as they were this year.
We have already begun the process of recovery from this summer’s drought. The rain that we have seen in September quickly greened the courses back up again, and we also used this opportunity to begin our autumn/winter programme of overseeding and turfing.
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We will be using the latter part of 2025 to overseed or turf the worn areas around the approaches and back of bunkers. Ensuring they are roped off to protect them until the grass is established.
We will also be overseeding the fairways in October. To aid recovery as much as possible, we will be doing a double pass across the fairways. We will be overseeding with a more drought-resistant rye grass that can better bounce back from hot weather. Changing grass type is a long-term process, but one that forms an important part of our agronomic plan.
One of our other main winter projects this year will be our ongoing annual refurbishment of the bunkers. As I have previously written, one of my main roles as General Manager is to look to the future and explore all avenues that positively benefit Hoebridge. As part of this, we have commissioned a bunker architect to survey our Main Course and provide her recommendations on bunker design across all 18 holes. We will be using these expert recommendations when making decisions on future bunker shaping, which will include work on bunkers that will start at the end of this year and move into 2026.
CANCELLING TEE TIMES
With the light now drawing in, I want to remind everyone of the importance of cancelling your tee time should you not be able to make it. At this time of year, we naturally lose our early morning and evening tee times to the light. As such, the ‘prime’ times that all of you as members are looking to book become clustered closer together.
If you have booked a tee time, but are then unable to make it, you can cancel in the following two ways
1. Via your Elite Live App
• If you are cancelling more than 24 hours before your tee time, you can simply log onto your Elite Live App, find your booking and delete it by clicking on the ‘bin’ symbol
2. By calling or emailing the Pro Shop
• If you’re unable to cancel on the App or you need to cancel within 24 hours, then you can call the Pro Shop on 01483 722611 or email proshop@hoebridgegc.co.uk
Cancelling your tee time frees the booking up for other members who are looking to play.
We will be monitoring the tee sheet carefully over the coming months and will be calling those who have not turned up for their tee time. Should we see that a member is regularly booking and not playing, then their booking rights will be removed. 1 2 3
PATHWAY TO GOLF
I wanted to remind you all of our Pathway to Golf Programme that has been running since May.
Getting new people into golf is something that we’re very passionate about at Hoebridge. Our Pathway to Golf aims to take a beginner or novice golfer through from the driving range onto the Par 3 Course. No prior experience is required, with these fun and relaxed lessons giving beginner golfers the chance to gain confidence and learn all the basics needed for them to begin enjoying playing on the Par 3. With a Trackman driving range and three golf courses, we feel very strongly about introducing new golfers to the game and giving them the support needed to eventually move through to playing on the Main Course and joining us as a member.
Our taster sessions are running across autumn, costing £10 for 1-hour group lesson.
If you know of someone who would like to get into golf but isn’t sure how to go about getting started, then this could be the perfect opportunity for them to begin. Speak to the Pro Shop team for further information.
To book, please speak to the Pro Shop team or call us on 01483 722611.
DRIVING RANGE
Finally, I have two super exciting announcements regarding our driving range.
I’m delighted to announce that we will be upgrading our driving range booking system to the Trackman booking system. Trackman is the industryleading range bookings
provider with over 800 golf facilities across the world.
The Trackman booking system enables you to avoid the queues and book your favourite bay through the Trackman app.
Not only will the booking process be simplified via the Trackman app, but you will automatically receive your member discount on bay bookings and driving range food and beverage purchases. Alongside this, you will also be able to take advantage of the other benefits that the Trackman app provides. Including;
• Book your Bay: Book your favourite bay with easy-to-navigate functionality.
• Activity Overview: Insightful reports and data from your range practice sessions.
• Trackman Handicap: Your personal handicap based on your previous performances.
• Competitions: Updated rankings across competitions and leagues.
• Map My Bag: “Map My Bag” is a feature that allows you to record and analyse the performance of each club in your own bag.
We are waiting to hear from Trackman as to when the official launch date will be. Once we have this confirmed, I will send out further information on how the Trackman app will work for you as members.
It’s not just the Trackman app that will be new to the driving range. Hot off the press, having spoken with our contractors around their availability, we will also be refurbishing part of the driving range from bays 17 through to the VIP bays towards the end of 2025. These bays will be given a new lease of life with a premium feel featuring new astro, TVs, lighting and even heated benches!
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We can’t wait to show you the final result. Both of these updates will enhance our driving range experience further, offering you a fantastic practice facility that can be used throughout the year, whatever the weather.
Thank you
Sarah COURSE MANAGER REPORT
BARRY GARDNER Course Manager
THE WEATHER AND ITS IMPACT
I suppose it was always going to happen, the weather changed just in time for our planned greens renovation work, the only day of the year that I really didn’t want rain, we got some!
But hey! The team knuckled down, and we made it through the best we could. All the scarifying and hollow coring was completed, and we put as much sand down as we could before the rain properly arrived. We will continue to top up the sand when we get dry spells of weather over the remainder of the year.
The main thing is we removed thatch and got some fresh sand into the profile, and the recovery went well. Although not favourable with golfers, this work on the greens is of such high importance if we are to improve the yearround playability and health of the greens.
You don’t need me to tell you how brutal the summer has been on the courses; the evidence is everywhere. The recent rainfall has meant that we are getting some bounce back in areas, but it’s patchy. Some may be wondering why we haven’t overseeded the fairways yet. This is booked in for the week commencing 20th October. The reason we leave it until October is so we will hopefully be past any risk of more drought. If we overseed too early, the seed would germinate, and the new plant would be very susceptible if there wasn’t enough rainfall in early autumn.
The weather features in nearly all of my course reports to you, and so true to form, here is a little stat for you: at this point last year, we had 627mm of rainfall and lost 498.4mm through evapotranspiration, so we had a soil moisture surplus of 128.6mm. Compared to this year, where we have had 320.4mm rainfall and lost 558.1mm through evapotranspiration, giving us a soil moisture deficit of 237.7mm.
As you can see, the soil still has a long way to go before we break even for the year.
As we are now fully into autumn and heading for winter, our attention switches to disease, leaves, wear and tear, and winter projects. You would have noticed that we have made a start in repairing some of the worn-out areas near the greens. We have been removing some of the old soil and back-filling with new and will be overseeding them.
We are also geared up and ready to bring out the rope and posts to direct buggies, trolleys and golfers away from the green complexes to help keep the wear and tear at a distance. I ask that you please abide by these once out.
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Regarding winter projects, we have recently employed the services of a golf course architect who has devised a bunker masterplan for the Main Course. Giulia from Leeds Golf Design has walked the course looking at all the bunkers to see if they are positioned correctly, if they are the correct size and even if they are even necessary. This document will give us direction going forward, knowing that any bunker work we carry out will be of benefit to the course and to the challenge of Hoebridge.
We will be using this report to guide the bunker work that we will be completing at the end of 2025. Our other main winter project will involve continuing to improve some of the pathways around the site.
I look forward to seeing you out on the course soon.
Happy golfing,
Barry and The Greens Team
DRIVING RANGE UPDATE
STUART RICE
Driving Range Manager
We’re excited to introduce Stuart, who recently joined us as the new Driving Range Manager here at Hoebridge.
Stuart brings a wealth of experience in both golf and hospitality, having worked in a variety of roles over the years - from Golf Shop Assistant to Golf Club Manager. Most recently, he was based at Rudding Park Hotel in Harrogate, where he helped organise several successful driving range events. He’s looking forward to bringing that same energy and creativity to Hoebridge, so keep an eye out for some exciting events coming soon!
Having recently relocated from York with his young family, Stuart has now been with us for nearly two months. A lifelong sports enthusiast with a strong passion for golf, he currently plays off a handicap of 1. And in case you’re wondering, he’s an Aston Villa supporter, so no local football rivalries here!
What’s New at the Driving Range?
We’ve got a few updates to share:
New Booking System Coming Soon
A new, easy-to-use bay booking system will be launching in the coming months, making it smoother and more convenient to plan your visits.
Member Reminder
Don’t forget - members continue to receive 50% off warm-up balls when ordering through the Pro Shop.
Staying Warm This Season
As we move into the cooler months, we’re making sure the range stays inviting. Enjoy our heated bays, hot food and drinks, and coming soondriving range blankets to keep you cosy while you practice.
Stuart is looking forward to meeting more of you in the coming weeks. If you have any questions or suggestions about the driving range, feel free to stop by and say hello!
GOLF OPERATIONS UPDATE
IAN HAYWARD
Head Professional
I hope everyone had a great summer and enjoyed their golf! The mornings are getting noticeably colder, the evenings are drawing in quickly, and whilst it doesn’t feel like we’re ready to let go of the summer for autumn/ winter, it’s on its way!
With the changing season, you will be pleased to know that the new ranges of autumn/ winter clothing have now arrived in store! With the latest offerings from brands such as J Lindeberg, Under Armour, PING and JRB, it is the perfect opportunity to get yourself winterready!
With the inevitable cold weather due soon, I would like to take this opportunity to remind all our members about the winter wheel policy for trolleys in place at Hoebridge.
During frost conditions, all trolleys MUST have winter wheels fitted to be allowed on the golf course with no exceptions. Now is a great time to ensure that your trolley is winter-ready! Please contact the Pro Shop, and we will happily assess your current set-up or advise as to what you require to make your trolley ready for winter use.
New Product Launch
All new tour-inspired wedges. MG5 wedges offer exceptionally soft feel, responsiveness and versatility and is now available in six different grinds. The all-new MG5 is now completely forged from ultrasoft carbon steel, which is a rarity itself, having a completely forged wedge. Not only that, but there is also a newer, more aggressive sawmilled groove for more spin and control.
• LB – Firm Conditions / Shallow Angle of Attack
• SC – Firm Conditions / Shallow – Medium AOA
• SB – Any Condition / All AOA
• SX – Neutral to Soft Conditions / Medium to Steep AOA
• HB – Soft Condition / Steep AOA
Come and get fit with our comprehensive fitting pack, including left-handed and graphite shafts.
Thanks,
Ian
EVENTS UPDATE
HAYLEY
Events Manager
Hi everyone
Hope you are all well and enjoyed the summer. The festive season is fast approaching, and I have already met with some of you to book your Christmas parties or lunches, which is fantastic!
Upcoming events…
FREDDIE MERCURY TRIBUTE
Friday 7th November
Don’t stop us now, as we want to rock you this November!
make us feel like champions.
• ‘Another one bites...’ with a delicious twocourse meal
• You will go ‘Radio Ga Ga’ for our amazing Freddie Mercury tribute act
• ‘The show must go on’, but for one night only, so pick up tickets fast
£39.95 per visitor
£34.95 per member
(Member card required)
CHRISTMAS
It’s the season to sparkle and we have lots on offer this year, whether you’re planning the perfect festive get-together for a party night or a festive lunch, tribute nights celebrating all ABBA & Michael Bublé’s greatest hits, or a breakfast with Santa, we’ll make sure that each moment is unforgettable.
Our party nights are selling out fast, so be sure to call our sales office to secure your space for a fantastic evening.
Prepare to be rocked as we celebrate the music and legacy of one of the greatest performers in rock history, Freddie Mercury. Our tribute act captures the voice and the charisma and will CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE
LOUIS WRIGHT Sales Executive
We are pleased to welcome Louis to the team as our new Sales Executive.
Louis has been with us for a month now, so many of you may have seen him around the club.
Louis has a passion for sport, especially when it comes to hockey and golf, and has hit the ground running with bundles of enthusiasm.
H&F UPDATE
RYAN STONEHOUSE
H&F Manager
I am delighted to welcome Charlotte Jones to the Personal Training team. Our members have already benefited from Charlotte’s coaching in our group fitness classes and one-to-one sessions. If you would like to find out how she can help you achieve your health and fitness goals, please email fitness@hoebridgegc.co.uk to book a free taster session and consultation. It is also a great time to take advantage of our personal training offer - £199 for five onehour sessions open to all golf members.
MEET CHARLOTTE
Hi! I love helping people feel their best, both inside and outside the gym. Before becoming a personal trainer, I worked as an Ambulance Care Assistant, supporting people in stressful moments and helping them feel calm and cared for. I’ve also spent years working in high-energy events, so
I bring plenty of positivity and motivation to my sessions and classes.
Now, as a newly qualified trainer with the most up-to-date fitness knowledge, I am here to help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to reach your goals. I look forward to meeting you all soon.
New for Autumn 2025 – Padwork PT Sessions
Break away from the norm and try Padwork Personal Training sessions.
A fantastic way to increase your cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, mind-muscleconnection, and simply destress from your busy week.
Come and speak to us in the Gym or email fitness@hoebridgegc.co.uk if you’d like to find out more.
Lifestyle Memberships
A reminder to all our golf members that you can upgrade your membership at any time to include the gym and classes.
A lifestyle membership at Hoebridge gives you full access to both our gym and classes, as well as a starter personal training session to create a workout plan bespoke to your fitness goals.
Upgrading costs less than £7 per week and is a great way to integrate both your golf and fitness under one roof.
Thanks, Ryan
Here at Gym at Hoebridge we pride ourselves on having some of the best personal trainers in Surrey. If you’re looking to lose weight, improve your shape, train for an event or generally improve your health and wellbeing, we have a trainer to suit you.
Each trainer has a different approach to living a healthier lifestyle be sure to check out their individual profiles to see which trainer suits you best.
speak to a member of the team Small Gym • big personality!
Thank you for reading the latest Members News.
Please feel free to contact us on 01483 722611
HOEBRIDGE GOLF CENTRE