Golf News August 2017

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MAJOR SHIFTS IN THE GOLFING FIRMAMENT

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he tectonic plates in the world of professional golf are shifting. You can almost hear the grinding of rock on rock between the hard place that is the PGA Tour and the slightly softer surface of the European Tour.

The aftershocks of the PGA of America’s decision to bring its championship forward four months in the calendar from 2019, and make it the season’s second major after the Masters, are already being felt across the world. With the Players' Championship – the unofficial fifth major – being switched to March, we are now faced with a monthly run of majors from April to July, with the Open now being the final chapter of the year’s major book.

While there is a neat symmetry to having the four events follow with a uniform break between them, I can’t help but think that it’s like have your starter, main course, pudding and cheese & biscuits – I love a four-course meal – all served at once. To have the major season done and dusted just as many summer golfers are pulling their clubs out of the garage seems like strange timing.

But then the professional golfing schedule has never had anything much to do with regular golf or regular golfers.

The pro calendar is about television schedules, governing bodies, sponsors’ demands and player preferences. When professional sports takes place in a certain place at a certain time, there is always a strong reason for it. Far more often than not, that outweighs the interests of the fans. Golf is riddled with self-interest at the upper organisational level, and the shifting of the US PGA Championship is just another flexing of American muscle – and quite possibly another nail in the coffin on the European Tour.

The US PGA has undoubtedly suffered from the perception it is a poor major relation, ending the season with a whimper rather than a bang, so hiding it between the Masters and the US Open is an obvious, and perhaps long overdue, move.

The game’s top players are supportive of the switch, apparently to a man. And yet the initial motivation to change the schedule came as a direct result of golf’s return to the Olympic Games in 2016, which led to a cluttered schedule where the Open in effect ran into the US PGA, with the lucrative FedEx Cup playoffs far too

close to the conclusion of the competition in Rio. When a Ryder Cup was factored in too, the sport clearly lacked breathing space.

There remain some unknowns. March currently has two World Golf Championships and the same number of high-profile tournaments in Florida, which cannot all survive with the Players soon to be factored in.

Something has to give.

But the biggest loser in this international clash of diary dates is the European Tour, which has been forced to move the BMW PGA Championship, once heralded as its ‘flagship’ event, to September, an autumn afterthought, rather than a spring into action. Even more troublesome is that this tournament was seen as the curtain raiser for the newly-created Rolex Series, a run of big money events that was supposed to lock in some of our best players into playing more often in Europe. Without further significant moves the Rolex Series would not begin until France in early July, which would significantly impact on the Ryder Cup, given the enhanced qualifying status bestowed on Rolex Series events.

The obvious answer would be confer Rolex Series status on some of the early season events PLAY FOUR in the Middle East, although with tournaments in Abu Dhabi and Dubai already relying on hefty appearance fees to attract global stars, and a certain rival watch brand backing the latter, it seems a difficult sell.

European Tour chief executive Keith Pelley is putting a brave face on it, put it hardly takes a rocket scientist, or someone with a passing knowledge of the political machinations of professional golf, to known that the creation of a global tour – one that takes in the majors, the WGCs, and a group of say, eight to ten events in America, Europe and the Far and Middle East – looks closer than ever.

For now, tournament organisers on either side of the Atlantic are in a constant battle to attract and retain the best players; a battle from which there can only be one winner on basic grounds of finance. So settle down for a year of tremors, shakes and possible eruptions, as the world of golf finds its new place in the sporting firmament. It may be a rocky ride.

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AUGUST 2017 | NEWS

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DICKMAN WINS DOUGLAS JOHN England regional squad player Oliver Dickman swept to a six-shot victory in the U15 Douglas Johns Trophy at Harewood Downs in Buckinghamshire.

Dickman, from Cuckfield Golf Centre in Sussex, was five-under overall, opening with a three-under 66, and adding a two-under 67 to take the title by a wide margin. John Richardson of Royal Mid-Surrey took second place, beating Matthew Jackman (Southport & Ainsdale) on countback. The tournament attracted 60 players from all over the country, and from as far afield as Singapore and Dubai.

Former US Open champion Justin Rose is a former winner of the Douglas Johns.

BOOK YOUR PLACE IN PUTTENHAM PRO-AM Puttenham Golf Club in Surrey is hosting a South Region PGA Pro-am on September 21, and local golfers are being invited to submit teams of three to take part in the tournament, which is being supported

by Normandy Garage. The cost to enter a team of three to play with one of the region’s top professionals is £240. To book, call 01483 810498 or email enquiries@ puttenhamgolfclub.co.uk.

CAVERSHAM TRIO WIN PLACE IN EUROPRO PRO-AM A competition to win a place in the ProAm at this month’s EuroPro Tour event held at Caversham Heath Golf Club in Oxfordshire was won by members David Wise, Dave Stankard and Anne Smith.

In the competition played off 9/10th handicap allowance, the trio recorded 83 points to take the coveted prize. The EuroPro Pro-Am is the curtain raiser for the Pentahotels Championship – a 54-hole EuroPro Tour event with a prize fund of £46,735, which was hosted by Caversham Heath from August 16-18.

RUEBOTHAM BAGS BROOKMANS’ TITLE James Ruebotham collected his second victory on this season’s PGA East Region circuit after shooting a 68 at the Brookmans Park Pro-Am. Coming off victory at the Muswell Hill Pro-Am, the Welwyn Garden City pro was one over par with only seven holes to go, but conjured up a flurry of birdies, including four over the last six holes, to end up winning by a shot from Murray White, Ian Campbell, Jason Levermore and Darren Charlton.

POULTER IN CHARGE AT KING’S LYNN Danny Poulter (Heacham Manor) birdied his first five holes on his way to winning the King’s Lynn Pro-Am. The brother of Ryder Cup star Ian delivered heroics of his own in shooting a six-under 66 to beat Paul Streeter (Lincoln Golf Centre) by a shot.

SCADE COLLECTS AT COLCHESTER James Scade (Little Channels) upheld his reputation as the PGA East region’s most in-form player with a two-shot success in the Colchester Pro-Am. Scade shot a fiveunder-par 65 to secure his fourth victory on the schedule. His latest triumph wasn’t all plain sailing, as he made a couple of early bogies to sit one-over through six holes. But he returned to level par at the next, before making three more birdies in four holes around the turn. He picked up further strokes at 14 and 17, as he came home in 30. Nick Cains and Ray Russell both shot 67s to tie for second.

TEE IT UP AGAINST THOMAS AT THE SHIRE’S BJØRN TROPHY T he Shire London has created a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for golfers to challenge the European Ryder Cup Captain in the Thomas Bjørn Trophy on October 9.

Golfers taking part in the tournament will play against the Danish golfing giant in a ‘Beat the

Pro’ challenge during an 18-hole fourball event over The Shire London’s Masters Course.

Following a full English breakfast, competitors will enjoy an 18-hole tournament with a 10am shotgun start. Golfers will be greeted by Bjørn on the tee of the par-three

seventh hole, and will then try to get their ball inside his tee shot.

Everyone who beats the Ryder Cup captain will receive a prize after their round. Following the day’s golf, guests will be provided with a three-course meal, with prizes supplied by event sponsors

Callaway, Odyssey and Galvin Green, presented by Bjørn himself.

Bjørn, who lives in London, was appointed The Shire London’s honorary captain earlier this year, and is one of the most successful golfers in European Tour history, with 21 wins, including 15 European Tour victories. He has three Ryder Cup caps, and has the honour of always being on the winning team – a run he hopes to continue when he captains the team in Paris next year.

The Thomas Bjørn Trophy takes place almost exactly 20 years after Seve Ballesteros captained Europe to a thrilling 14½-13½ victory at Valderrama in 1997. That year, Bjørn, playing his first Ryder Cup, was unbeaten for the week.

“Seve’s legacy is everywhere in golf, and he was a memorable and successful captain for the European team,” said Bjørn. “I am proud to be attached to The Shire London as the club’s honorary captain, and I am looking forward to challenging golfers on Seve’s course this October.”

To enter the Thomas Bjørn Trophy, which costs £550 for a fourball, please contact Ceri Menai-Davis on 020 8441 7649 or email ceri@ theshirelondon.com.

GATTON MANOR UP FOR SALE AS COUNCIL REJECTS SPA PLAN

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he future of Gatton Manor Golf & Country Club hangs in the balance after plans to turn the Surrey venue into an exclusive medical spa were rejected

by Mole Valley District Council last month.

The Russian owner of the club, Andrey Umanskiy, was due to shut the course on October 31, with plans to redevelop it over a two-year period and turn it into an upmarket pay-and-play facility. But with the plans for the spa rejected, it is understood that the club has now been put up for sale for an undisclosed price, although it is believed to around £4million.

Members have already been told that they will no longer be able to play the course after October 31, and many staff have already been given notice, so unless a new buyer is found before that date, it is unlikely that the club will be sold as a going concern.

Many members have already left, with some joining nearby clubs such as Foxbridge, Cranleigh and Horsham, but the remainder are holding out to the bitter end, in the hope that a new buyer can be found who would be willing to

carry on running it as a hotel and golf club.

Plans to transform a 70-acre area around the existing clubhouse and hotel into a health and wellness retreat were submitted to Mole Valley Council last summer, following a public consultation.

The site was bought by Mr Umanskiy, who is experienced in the travel and hospitality sector, in 2011.

BERKSHIRE TO RENOVATE RED AND BLUE COURSES

STARS COME OUT TO PLAY WITH DOUGRAY AT DUKES MEADOWS

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T

he Berkshire Golf Club has announced it is expanding the renovation plans for its two historic heathland championship courses, the Red and the Blue.

Both courses were designed

by Herbert Fowler in the late 1920s, and the club embarked on a renovation programme last year, with the intention of improving both layouts and making them closer to Fowler’s original vision.

Surrey-based architect Lobb + Partners was hired by the club to consult on the project, which started last year with revisions to the par-four 4th and the par-three 5th holes on the Red Course, including a bunker renovation.

The club has now agreed to a more widescale programme, with further holes on the Red and Blue course to be restored and renovated over the next two years.

Tim Lobb said: “It's a privilege to be working at a club like The Berkshire. Our remit is to improve both courses and move them closer to Fowler's original vision.

This project started off small scale, but has gradually grown to take in more holes, which we shall be updating over the next two years. In all cases we shall be returning the bunkers to a more vintage look, as is appropriate for a course of this age, and trying to enhance the club's already impressive heather landscape.”

he 2017 Mini Masters, a golf tournament and summer garden party rolled into one, returned for its eighth edition with an array of celebrity golfers captaining teams of keen amateur players.

The par-three competition, which was held at Dukes Meadows in Chiswick, saw some of the biggest names in celebrity golf, including event host actor Dougray Scott (pictured), James Nesbitt, Thom and Max Evans, Denise van Outen, Ian Wright, Richard Bacon, Jamie Theakston and Gordon Strachan, get into the swing for Leuka, a charity which funds research into and treatment of of Leukaemia.

Many celebrities have supported the Mini Masters since the tournament began in 2008, with James Nesbitt describing it as ‘The best day of the year. In fact it is actually the best day of my life’. With its fun atmosphere, on-course bars and music, and satirical commentary coming from the event’s very own ‘TV Tower’, the Mini Masters is a golf day like no other.

Dougray Scott, a Leuka patron, said: “This is the greatest celebrity golf tournament in the world. It’s a summer garden party, with drinks on every other hole, fantastic food, great banter, live music, and all for a fantastic cause.

You will never experience anything like this anywhere else.”

Guests at the event bid for some fantastic auction prizes, including a round of golf with Paul McGinley at Sunningdale.

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[8]

AUGUST 2017 | NEWS

KELSO SCORCHES TO KENT JUNIOR TITLE Jacob Kelso won the Kent Junior Championship after shooting rounds of 68 and 66 for a 10-under-par total of 134 at Chart Hills. Kelso’s impressive score, saw the one-handicapper from Kings Hills finish six and nine shots clear of second and third-placed Richard Cheetham and Cameron Lombard, both of whom are members at Chart Hills. Only six players were under par for the tournament. The Kent Junior Handicap Championship was won by Luke Jenkins from West Kent with a score of 43 points from a 17 handicap. He finished two points clear of Etchinghill’s Miles Gray, who plays off 11.

REYNOLDS WINS KENT SENIORS TITLE Littlestone’s Chris Reynolds captured yet another Kent Seniors’ title after firing rounds of 71 and 74 at North Foreland for a three-over-par total and a two-shot victory over runner up Alan Austin from Lamberhurst. Phil Judge from Bearsted was a further shot back in third.

ARNOLD CAPTURES SUSSEX VETS CHAMPIONSHIP Copthorne’s Doug Arnold secured another impressive victory in the Sussex Veterans Championship after shooting a gross 77 at Piltdown Golf Club on July 27.

Two Dyke players took the minor honours, with Neville Hudson taking third with a 78 and Malcolm Stalker taking third with 79 on countback.

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LUTON HOO TO HOST BRIDGESTONE CHALLENGE F ollowing a successful reintroduction to the Challenge Tour schedule in 2016, the Bridgestone Challenge stays in the Home Counties this year, with Luton Hoo Hotel in Bedfordshire hosting the €180,000 event from September 7-10.

The tournament drew in plenty of support when it was hosted at Heythrop Park last year, where Frenchman Thomas Detry blitzed the field with a record-breaking 12-shot victory en route to securing his European Tour card. And similarly good crowds are expected to descend on the parkland course at Luton Hoo next month, when the current crop of Challenge Tour players bid to stake their claim to

the top tour.

Matthew Long, general manager at Luton Hoo said: “We are delighted to be hosting the 2017 Bridgestone Challenge this September. Golf is an important part of the hotel’s offering, and we are proud to be part of this year’s European Challenge Tour schedule. The entire team at Luton Hoo are excited about the prospect of seeing our championship golf course on the international stage, and hosting the future stars of world golf.”

Among those expected to attract the biggest following is Hertfordshire’s Sean Maisey, whose friends and family won’t have far to travel from St Albans to cheer him on as he takes on Luton Hoo’s 7,107-

SMITH BAGS FIRST EUROPEAN TOUR WIN

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iltshire tour pro Jordan Smith claimed his maiden European Tour title with a play-off victory over Alex Levy at the Porsche European Open in Germany.

The lead changed hands throughout the afternoon at Green Eagle Golf Courses in Hamburg, as Levy and Smith, who held the third round lead, were engaged in an exciting final-round battle.

Levy led by a single shot as he stood at the 18th tee, but when playing partner Smith holed his ten-foot birdie putt to join the Frenchman at the top of the leaderboard at 13 under, he was forced to tap in his tricky par putt to force a play off.

Both players reached the putting surface in two at the first extra hole, but Levy was in the box seat after sending his eagle putt to within three feet, with Smith

yard course.

Maisey, who is attached to the Centurion Club and currently plays on the Jamega Tour, won a place at the tournament after winning a qualifying event held at Redditch Golf Club in May. He said: “I am very much looking forward to playing Luton Hoo in the Bridgestone Challenge. My win at the qualifying event was my first professional

victory, and I hope it will be the first of many.”

Admission to the Bridgestone Challenge is free for spectators and there is no need to book in advance. With unroped viewing access, and a variety of activities, as well as food and beverage stalls, the three-day tournament promises to offer an enjoyable experience for the whole family.

another 12 feet away from the hole.

The 24 year old from Chippenham missed his putt, leaving Levy with the chance to finish the contest, but he missed his close-range birdie effort, so the pair headed back to the 18th tee.

After Smith sent his monster eagle putt to within three feet of the hole during the second play-off hole, the 2016 Challenge Tour Road to Oman winner tapped in his close-range birdie to secure his maiden European Tour victory in his 25th event.

The achievement means Smith joins an illustrious list of players who have won a European Tour title in their rookie year. It also caps off a memorable journey for the Aggreko-sponsored golfer who, since turning pro in 2014, has claimed both the PGA EuroPro Tour and Challenge Tour Order of Merit titles. This imperious form has continued into his European Tour rookie year, where he has already enjoyed seven top-25 finishes, and currently sits in 18th place the Race to Dubai rankings, having banked over €850,000 in prize money.

“Two years ago I was playing on the EuroPro Tour, and then last year on the Challenge Tour, so to win in my first year on the European Tour is a bit surreal,” said Smith, who is attached to Bowood Hotel Golf & Spa Resort in Wiltshire. “It's been nerve-wracking at times, but I have really enjoyed it. I had a really good start to the year, and the main aim was just to secure my Tour card, which I managed to do.

And then the second goal was to win an event, which I've also managed to do.”

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | AUGUST 2017

[9]

STARS OUT IN FORCE AT GARY PLAYER INVITATIONAL

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ome of the biggest names in golf, business and entertainment united under the banner of ‘Golf & Giving’ to raise more than £126,000 for various children's charities at the Berenberg Gary Player Invitational held at Wentworth Club in Surrey on July 23-24.

Alongside 18-time Major winner Gary Player, the annual tournament, staged on the Gary Player-designed Edinburgh Course, featured a number of the game’s iconic figures, including Tom Watson, Fred Couples, Bernhard Langer and Sir Bob Charles, the first left-handed golfer to win a major championship.

However, it was the team led by three time Major champion Padraig Harrington who retained his title from last year, and Ladies European Tour star Alex Peters, that claimed overall victory on the day, with a combined team score of 86 points.

Tournament host Player, said: “I continue to be blown away by the generosity and support of the players and the sponsors and am thrilled by the funds we have been able to raise this year. I visited Depaul recently and can testify to the significant difference the money raised during this event makes and the positive impact it continues to have on so many young lives.”

The day culminated in a black-tie dinner and auction, where guests were given

■ ASTRONG FIELD OF TOUR PLAYERS SUPPORTED THE GARY PLAYER INVITATIONAL

the opportunity to bid on a selection of once-in-a-lifetime experiences at events such as the Masters, Wimbledon and the Porsche European Open, as well as a Manchester City Football Club experience. Entertainment at the event included speed painting done by Dave Sharp, before guests were treated to a performance by an ABBA tribute band.

Following the successful event, Dr Hans-Walter Peters, managing partner at Berenberg, commented: “We are proud to be associated with some of golf’s most iconic individuals. It's an honour for us to support Gary's charitable activities, which continue to make a tangible difference to the lives of underprivileged children, not only in the UK, but across the world.”

The event at Wentworth is part of the Gary Player Invitational series, which has helped The Player Foundation raise more than $63million for charitable causes.

Reynolds and Mick Crossan, Powerday’s founder and owner of London Irish rugby club. Crossan supported the development of the Dale Youth Boxing Club, providing state-of-the-art gym and equipment within Grenfell Tower when it was refurbished in 2016. The club has produced current world champions, such as George Groves and James DeGale, during 80 years of voluntary provision to the local community.

Reynolds said: “After the tragedy, Mick and I initially had a plan to re-launch the Dale Youth Boxing Club. However, after discussions with associates and business friends, it became obvious to Mick that the fundraising should go well beyond the boxing club and be extended to the whole of the Grenfell Tower community, whose lives have changed so dramatically.”

He added: “In Foxhills we have a magnificent venue to stage the

■ BOXING CHAMPION ANTHONY JOSHUA WILL BE GIVING OUT THE PRIZES AT THE GOLF DAY

FOXHILLS TO HOST GRENFELL TOWER FUNDRAISER

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oxhills Club & Resort in Surrey is to stage a charity golf day on September 14 to raise funds for those affected by the Grenfell Tower disaster in London.

The Powerday Plc Invitational Pro-Am will include the ten members of the Great Britain & Ireland PGA

Cup team and their United States counterparts, who – over the three following days – will compete at the Surrey venue for the 28th PGA Cup, the biennial match contested by PGA professionals.

The Pro-Am is the brainchild of Foxhills’ ambassador Brendan

Powerday Invitational Plc Pro-Am, and to have the golf day co-ordinated by the PGA with the support of the two PGA Cup teams is fantastic. After the golf, there will be a fundraising dinner to also be attended by sporting greats such as world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, plus George Groves and James DeGale along with other supporters of this worthy cause and event. During the evening, there will be an auction in which unique items and money-can’t-buy experiences will go under the hammer, with all funds raised from the evening going to the Grenfell Tower residents.”

Chris Fitt, Director of Golf at Foxhills, said: “We are delighted to be hosting this very special event in support of the victims of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. We can’t think of a better way to kick off the 2017 PGA Cupm and I am sure it will set the tone for a healthy, competitive few days to follow – played in a great spirit.”

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DAISY BLOSSOMS TO TAKE U16 SCHOOLS’ TITLE Stoke Park's Daisy Kennedy won the English Schools Golf Association Under-16 Girls' Championship at Walsall Golf Club.

The 15-year-old three-handicapper, who lives in Hazlemere, fired rounds of 73 and 76 for a five-over par total of 149 to win the title by five shots from her nearest rival.

SULLIVAN SECURES SUSSEX BOYS’ TITLE Chartham Park’s Joe Sullivan won the Sussex Boys Championship at Ifield Golf Club after beating the home club’s Charlie Hinton in a playoff. Sullivan shot rounds of 67 and 71 for his 138 total, while Hinton fired two rounds of 69. Sullivan sealed victory at the first extra hole.

The tournament attracted a field of 42 players, with third place going to Bertie Packham from Singing Hills, who was five shots behind the leaders.

TAYLOR TAKES TILLMAN TROPHY Enmore Golf Club’s Taylor Stote captured this year’s Tillman Trophy after winning a three-way play off at Knole Park in Surrey.

Stote’s four-under-par, 72-hole total was matched by William Whiteoak (Shipley) and Olly Huggins (Frilford Heath), but Stote holed a 20-foot birdie putt at the second extra hole to take the title. Testing conditions saw only five of the 136-strong field break par over the four rounds on the par-70 course, with Tom Thurloway (Chartham Park) and Richard Mansell (Forest of Arden) the only other players in red figures for the tournament on three under par.

[10] AUGUST 2017 | FEATURE

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

BRANCHING OUT

Clive Agran catches up with Sussex-based Challenge Tour player Toby Tree, who leapt into the public consciousness last month when battling through qualifying to play all four rounds at the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale

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oby Tree’s previously unspectacular career as a professional golfer received a massive boost last month when the 23 year old not only qualified for the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, but made the cut and banked a sizeable cheque.

Ranked 689th in the world when he teed off at the qualifying competition at Woburn, the man from Southwater, near Horsham in West Sussex, rocketed over 100 places up the world rankings, and is more than €20,000 richer thanks to his heroic exploits over the famous Lancashire links.

Playing alongside the greatest golfers on the planet in the most important championship in the world wouldn’t have been in the forefront of the mind of the 10-year-old footballcrazy kid when he was first shown how to grip a club by his grandfather.

Did young Toby find the game ridiculously easy from ºthe outset? “No, when I first picked up a club, I missed the ball and topped it, just like everyone else who starts out,” he says.

Fortunately, he very quickly got the hang of the game most of us find fiendishly difficult, and golf soon replaced football as his favourite pastime. After a few years knocking divots out of the fairways at Slinfold Golf & Country Club, Toby switched to Worthing, and more recently joined Golf at Goodwood as well.

His first big win came when he captured the Sussex Under-12s' title and the trophies just kept on coming. A regular in various junior Sussex County sides, Toby was first selected to play for England when just 14, and went on to represent his country at both junior and senior amateur level. One of his finest triumphs came in 2008, when he won the English Boys' Under-14 Open Amateur Strokeplay Championship, a competition that attracts a very strong field from right around the world.

On the international front, Toby was a member of the successful Great Britain and Northern Ireland team that won the Jaques Leglise Trophy against Europe in Spain and he also represented England in the prestigious European Team Championships.

Another notable victory followed in 2010, when he trounced an international field of 118 with a four-round total of 10 under par to secure the coveted Sir Henry Cooper Masters. His rapid rise up the amateur rankings accelerated in 2014, when he won the Welsh Amateur Championship and broke into the world’s top 15 amateurs. Almost inevitably, at the end of the year, Toby turned professional.

“I felt I had done enough in the amateur game and wanted to challenge myself by going pro. To be honest, it has been a struggle at times,” he confessed. “I think I’ve improved mentally and that’s helped me play better.”

Although he’s enjoyed some success on the Challenge and Sunshine Tours, surely nothing will have prepared him for the greatest championship of them all.

But before Royal Birkdale came the not insignificant business of qualifying, and a tough two-round test at Woburn. Was it stressful competing with so many other

talented golfers desperately seeking a starting berth at the most important of golf’s four major championships? “I didn’t feel particularly stressed during the first round. Only in the second, when I hit into the water at 12, did I start to feel the pressure.”

There were three places up for grabs, and Toby finished in a tie for second alongside Ian Poulter, just one shot clear of the next man. And so he travelled up to Southport on the Sunday before the Open and played several practice rounds, including one on Wednesday with fellow Englishmen Chris Wood and Matt Fitzpatrick, before stepping onto the first tee just before noon on Thursday.

Was he nervous? “No, I wasn’t too nervous or overwhelmed by the occasion. In fact, I was pretty chilled.

The two Americans I played with [Jamie Lovemark and William McGirt] were, like everyone else, very friendly and considerate. And I had a lot of support from my girlfriend, family and friends. All together there were about 30 of them following me around, which was great. I was level par at the end of the first round, but felt I hadn’t played as well as I could.”

Presumably at the start of the second round the plan must have been to make the cut. “I was lying 38th and wasn’t really worrying about the cut. I was just trying to play well and enjoy it a bit more,” he said.

It was only after his only double bogey of the week at the 13th – the hole that almost did for Jordan Spieth’s Claret Jug dreams – that he started to think about the cut. However, a birdie at the 17th helped him finish five over for the first two rounds in very tricky conditions, and he thankfully squeaked into the weekend by just a single stroke.

“I found my game on Saturday,” revealed Toby, who played alongside Australia’s Aaron Baddely, and began the back nine with five straight threes and finished with a one-under-par 69. Sunday’s final round 70, played in the company of Ryder Cup player Andy Sullivan, was very steady, with just one bogey and a birdie. He reached over three-quarters of the greens in regulation, which was comfortably more than he had managed on any of the previous rounds, and finished in a tie for 54th alongside Justin Rose. He banked a cheque for €22,528 for his week’s work – comfortably the biggest payday of his career, and twice as much as he had earned all season on the Challenge Tour.

Will this be the start of better things? “I’m hoping it’ll prove to be a bit of a platform and not just a one off. Having played at the Open, it certainly left me wanting more.”

But, for the moment at least, it’s back to grinding out results on the Challenge Tour, where Toby currently lies in 82nd place in the money list, needing some Open inspiration if he is to jump up to the big leagues.

I WASN’T TOO NERVOUS OR OVERWHELMED

BY THE OCCASION. IN FACT, I WAS PRETTY CHILLED

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | AUGUST 2017

IRELAND CAPTURES SOCIAL OPEN GLORY AT FARLEIGH T he Social Golfer 2017 Open Championship, held at Farleigh Golf Club in Surrey on July 30, was a sell-out event, with over 70 golfers taking part in the Golf Newssponsored 18-hole tournament, which is now in its seventh year.

With good weather, but breezy conditions, scoring was low, with Roger Ireland taking the honours in the men’s event with an impressive

score of 43 points. He finished two points clear of Greg Butler in second, with Phil Boyd a further four points adrift on 37.

There was a more clear-cut winner in the women’s division, with Judy Lilley’s 35 points seeing her finish six points ahead of her nearest challenger, Hang Van Den Broek.

The Golf News Guest Trophy was won by Dave Knight with 34 points,

while the nearest-the-pin competition, which was sponsored by Golf Escapes, was won by Paul Houghton, Cyrus Shroff and Roger Ireland. The putting competition was won by Phil Boyd, who completed the 12-hole course in 22 putts.

TheSocialGolfer.com is an online golf club and social networking community that boasts over 5,000 members across the UK.

[11]

■ THESOCIAL GOLFER CHAMPIONS JUDY LILLEY AND ROGER IRELAND

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early 17,000 people joined English golf clubs in the year up to the end of March, making it one of the best years for the nation in recent times. That is the headline story from the ‘Impact Report’, which has been published by England Golf.

The organisation has said that more than 237,000 people tried golf for the first time last year and, looking at the last four years, in which more than 640,000 people have played the game for the first time ‘growth was notably rapid in 2016/17’ it states. More than 44,000 people have joined English clubs since 2013, it added.

The data doesn’t state if clubs have collectively seen a net membership increase in that time, as no figures for people giving up their membership is given, but both the large numbers and their increasing growth over the years is a cause for optimism.

Furthermore, 40 per cent of all new participants are female, highlighting the appetite for the game among women and girls.

Sharon Heeley, England Golf’s head of delivery, commented: “It’s very pleasing to report these results and we are looking forward to even greater successes in the future. We now have club support officers in all counties whose role is to listen to and understand the business needs of clubs and help them to achieve their aims.

“Our refreshed strategy to grow the game of golf in England puts the customer at the heart of everything we do and we’re encouraging clubs to take the same approach.”

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[12] AUGUST 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

HARTSBOURNE HONOUR HUNT WITH NEW BAR

HASSOCKS REMAINS FULLY OPEN FOR BUSINESS AS HOUSING PLANS DELAYED

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artsbourne Country Club in Hertfordshire has unveiled a new-look clubhouse that pays homage to one of the club’s great golfing families.

A significant investment has seen the opening of a new pro shop, golf operations centre and modern café bar, which has been named in honour of the Hunt family, who have had a 60-year association with the Bushey Heath-based club.

Father John arrived in ■ GEOFF AND MAGSIE 1954, along with his two HUNT IN THE NEWLOOK CLUBHOUSE professional golfing sons, Bernard and Geoffrey. As golfing brothers, they are best – the two clubs Bernhard had long known for both playing in the same associations with.

Ryder Cup team in 1963 in Atlanta Geoffrey has remained an – the first since the Whitcombe honorary member of Hartsbourne brothers in 1935 – as well as Bernard since his retirement from the role of being Ryder Cup captain at Walton head professional 15 years ago, and, Heath in 1981. together with his wife, Magsie, he The Bernard Hunt Trophy is was invited to open the Hunt Bar. now a keenly contested match The Hunt Bar serves modern between Hartsbourne and Foxhills bistro style food and has become

■ THE PRO SHOP HAS ALSO BEEN RENOVATED

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the social hub for all golfers before and after their rounds.

Hartsbourne’s Director of Golf, Jeremy Bohn said: “When visitors or societies previously came to Hartsbourne, they had to check in at the office, which didn’t really make sense, and there wasn’t much in the way of visual communication either. So as part of our modernisation plan, we created ‘The Hub’. Combining the Hunt Bar with the new pro shop and golf operations centre means that all the golfers’ needs can be catered for in one place.”

He added: “This summer the feedback after a golf day has been fantastic, whether it is compliments on the new-look pro shop, excitement about the information and scoreboards for their day being on the four TV screens in The Hub or delight at the quality of the catering.”

assocks Golf Club’s plans to reduce its parkland course from 18 to nine holes have been postponed until the autumn of 2018, meaning that golfers can still play the full course for another year at least.

The club, which is located in the South Downs, seven miles north of Brighton, has sold off half its course to property developers, which will ensure the future financial viability of the club, but building on the first phase of the planned 130 new homes won’t begin until the middle of next year.

After that, golfers will still be able to use the club – which has also applied to build a new clubhouse and driving range from money raised from the sale – but the course will be cut from 18 holes to nine.

Greg Kemsley, general manager at Hassocks, said: “There have been lots of rumours floating around that Hassocks has already been reduced to a nine-hole course, but I want to confirm that the full 18 is very much open for play, and we would welcome local golfers, whether green fee players, potential members, or visiting societies, to come along and find out what we have to offer.”

HUNTERCOMBE TO FRESHEN UP PARK’S DESIGN

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he historic heathland course at Huntercombe Golf Club is to undergo a significant renovation in order to return it to the type of playing conditions first experienced when it opened over a century ago.

The Oxfordshire-based course, which was designed by Willie Park Jnr and first opened in 1901, has taken on the services of golf course architects Lobb + Partner to draw up a plan for renovations, which aims to freshen up what is widely regarded as one of the finest heathland courses in the country.

Park's design on the 6,300-yard layout is characterised by grassy hollows and humps, and isolated gorse bushes which define the playing strategy of many holes.

"We will look to reintegrate some of Park's lost design features, including pots and hollows, to restore scale back to the limited bunkers and review the landscape philosophy," said Tim Lobb. “There are only 13 bunkers on the entire course, meaning that the hollows, other landforms, and very dramatic greens, are its principal defence.”

Waterlooville GOLF CLUB

“If you haven’t played it, put it on your bucket list!

The friendliness of the welcome, the presentation of the course and the quality of the greens were all outstanding.” – ANDRA, GLOUCESTERSHIRE TEAM CAPTAIN

Waterlooville Golf Club has continued to receive similar feedback all year and was very proud to host the English Women’s County Finals in September 2016.

We would be delighted to welcome your golf society to Waterlooville Golf Club.

Contact us today to book your next golf day.

PAR - £31.50 Coffee & Bacon Roll on arrival ◆ 18 holes of golf on our championship course ◆

EAGLE - £47

BIRDIE - £38 Coffee and Bacon Roll on arrival ◆ 18 holes of golf on our championship course ◆ One course lunch ◆

Tel: 023 9226 3388

Coffee & Bacon Roll on arrival ◆ 27 holes of golf on our championship course ◆ One course lunch ◆

Web: waterloovillegolfclub.com

Waterlooville Golf Club, Cherry Tree Ave, Cowplain, Waterlooville, Hampshire, PO8 8AP

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | AUGUST 2017

[13]

HAMPTWORTH INVESTMENT PAYS OFF AS CLUB REPORTS RECORD GROWTH

T NESSLING HITS IT FOR SIX AT CHART HILLS

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ooden Beach’s Paul Nessling shot a blistering 10-under 62 at Chart Hills Golf Club in Kent to win the WW Martin James Tredwell Testimonial Pro-Am. In a special event laid on by the PGA in England (South) to celebrate Kent cricketer James Tredwell’s testimonial year, Nessling fired an amazing six birdies and two eagles to claim the winner’s cheque.

Based on the ‘par is your friend’ format, which lets players go for every birdie and eagle he or she can amass, Nesslng’s impressive score was only just enough to nab him top spot. Hard on his heels on nine under were Royal Wimbledon’s Richard Edginton with nine birdies and Barnehurst’s Jordan Godwin with seven birdies and one eagle.

Starting at the seventh, Nessling birdied the ninth and 12th, eagled the 14th, and made two more birdies in quick succession on the 16th and 17th.

Another came at the first and then the fourth, with the eagle at the fifth getting the Cooden Beach star to 10 under. Pushing hard over the last two holes didn’t yield any more results, but it was just good enough to beat Godwin and Edginton’s cards.

Pipped for the individual top spot, Godwin still led his three HMY amateurs to victory in the team event, winning on a countback from the Urban Surveying team led by Golf at Goodwood’s Chris McDonnell on 19-under.

Nessling said: “Much as we all enjoy the cut and thrust of the traditional stroke play format, which examines all aspects of your game and mental approach, for events such as this the format is perfect. It enables the PGA professionals to let rip on all 18 holes, without any fear of needing to defend a good score. That, in turn, provides huge entertainment for the amateurs we’re playing alongside. The feedback today was terrific – I think they definitely felt inspired!”

he decision by Hamptworth Golf and Country Club’s new owner to invest over £250,000 in developing the facilities at the Wiltshire-based venue looks to have paid off, with the club enjoying record numbers of rounds played over the last 12 months.

The club, which is located between Salisbury and Southampton, was bought by local businessman Carl Faulds in 2015, who put up the funds to improve playing conditions on the 18-hole course, as well as renovate the clubhouse facilities.

Faulds, who owns a financial consultancy with offices in Hampshire, Dorset and London, is delighted to have turned around the fortunes of the club.

Speaking about the increased interest in the club, Mr Faulds said: “Members are telling me that the golf course is in the best condition ever, and we are getting rave reviews from visitors. Overall, the number of rounds played is up by 40% from when I bought the club in 2015. The recipe for success is based on the club’s motto ‘Great Golf, Great Fun, Great Value’.

We are a relaxed, modern-thinking club, and have moved away from the sometimes stuffy image associated with golf. Every club has to decide its own model; ours is based on a simple plan based around inclusivity, enjoyment, value for money, and creating a family-friendly, relaxed atmosphere.”

■ CLUB OWNER CARL FAULDS

Director of Golf, Mike Mulligan added: “Golf is supposed to be enjoyable. What I love about Hamptworth and Carl’s vision for the club is the emphasis on fun and enjoyment, rather than pedantic rules.

I would much rather get positive feedback from the golfers than complaints about the inappropriate length of someone’s socks.”

The investment in the facilities, which also include a gym, tennis courts and croquet lawns, has also seen increasing interest from corporate clients and golf societies, with the club having hosted several large charity days, including the Saints Foundation and Lymington Precision Engineers. Several celebrities have also been spotted at the club, including

Southampton Football Club legends Matt Le Tissier and Jimmy Case, as well as former champion national hunt jockey John Francome. Local corporate supporters have also backed the club, including New Forest Wealth Management and New Forest Bentley, both of which have participated in numerous events, including a Special VIP Corporate Day, where guests enjoyed a glass of Prosecco before 18 holes and a postmatch dinner.

Next month sees the club host the Jamega Tour once again, following a successful tournament in 2016, with the Pro-Am taking place on September 17.

Mr Faulds added: “We are nowhere near capacity yet, but the growth trajectory is very positive, and with more work to come on the course and clubhouse – and with our growing reputation, as more golfers experience what Hamptworth is all about – I am looking forward to seeing the club reach its potential as it becomes recognised as the South‘s ‘go to’ place to enjoy golf.”

SOCIETY OFFER FOR OCTOBER ON THE WEST COURSE ONLY £75 per person

Package includes coffee and bacon roll, one round of golf and a two course meal.

Phone 01923 721653 to book.

Offer available Monday to Friday in October 2017 and subject to availability. Small deposit payable on booking. Minimum groups of 12.

Moor Park Golf Club, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 1QN

enquiries@moorparkgc.co.uk

www.moorparkgc.co.uk

[14] AUGUST 2017 | COURSE REVIEW

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

COURSE REVIEW

TWISTED STONE GOLF COURSE, PYRFORD, SURREY

Nick Bayly pays a visit to the club formerly known as Traditions, in the leafy village of Pyrford, where he finds a venue ready to rise again following a change of ownership and significant investments in the on- and off-course facilities

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ompanies looking to breathe new life into a business or product often change their names at the cost of decades of carefully-managed brand development and customer loyalty. Hands up who still calls Snickers a Marathon, or Starbursts Opal Fruits? Oh well, just me then.

Golf clubs are no different in this respect. In fact, I wonder whether in 20 years’ time, golfers who come away from a round at Twisted Stone will still tell their mates that they’ve just enjoyed a game at Traditions.

For that is the name the club had gone by since it first opened to the paying public in 1999. First owned by American Golf, and then Crown Golf, the club was bought in 2015

by Pin High Golf. Anxious to leave behind the legacy of its previous tenants, Pin High’s management took one bold, and some might say risky, move of asking the intelligent and creative readership of Golf News to come up with a new name to mark the launch of a fresh new chapter in the club’s history.

Many of you rose to the challenge with admirable gusto, trawling through county archives, uncovering geological surveys, and rifling through the pages of the R&A’s Golfer’s Handbook to come up with a title that a) didn’t already exist, and b) gave some sort of nod to the venue’s historical roots. Pyrford Lakes and Weyside Lakes were among the most popular and perhaps more obvious choices, but the winning entry, which thankfully wasn’t Golfy McGolf Club, was provided by Mark BurnabyDavies from Leytonstone, who won himself an honourary membership for his troubles. Given his geographical location, Mark is yet to take up his prize, although being given the honour of naming a golf club may be reward enough.

Despite sounding very much like a desert resort course in the wilds of Nevada, the name actually references a pre-historic standing stone in Pyrford that, so the story goes, is believed to turn around at midnight each night.

While not everyone with a connection with

Traditions was delighted with ‘Twisted Stone’, which became the new name in April, that’s what it’s called, and that’s what it will remain until someone else comes along, as they will surely do in the future, and change it to something different.

Twisted Stone, Traditions, ‘that other club next to Pyrford Golf Club’, call it what you will, is definitely turning over a new leaf following its change of ownership. Pin High Golf’s experienced management team has already set in motion a whole raft of expenditure to improve the quality and condition of the 18-hole golf course, while plans have already been approved to renovate and extend the existing clubhouse.

Judging by the comments on many of the course review websites, the rescue package couldn’t have come at a better time, as the attractive 18-hole parkland course that was designed by Peter Alliss and Clive Clark at the turn of the last century was in danger of slipping into obsolescence due to a lackadaisical approach to the art of greenkeeping, shall we politely suggest.

These things take time to put right, and while the new management, led by managing director and PGA Professional Tony Healy, is

keen to get the course back in mint condition, the vagaries of the UK climate means that the vast number of jobs that need doing – including bunker renovations, fairway drainage improvements, sprinkler head repairs and such like, won’t happen overnight – but rest assured, they are happening, and will continue to happen.

Funds have already been invested in new greenkeeping equipment to facilitate these improvements, while the appointment of new head greenkeeper Kyle Mossman, whose CV boasts spells at Ealing and The Grove – both of which are famed for their superb presentation and excellent greens – speaks

volumes about the ambitions the new owners have for the course.

The investment required to polish up this undoubted gem will be money well spent, as Messrs Alliss and Clark did some great work in creating a 6,300-yard course that looks and plays well beyond its 18 years. Enjoying an attractive location in open countryside besides the River Wey and the Pyrford Marina – but just 10 minutes from the M25 and two miles from the A3 – Twisting Stone offers a constantly enjoyable golfing test.

Not too long, and with not too much rough, it’s challenging enough to demand careful course management – especially on the early and late woodland holes, and on the many parts of the layout where water comes into play – yet it remains playable for those new to the game, as well as more experienced golfers looking to boost their confidence. The large, subtly-contoured putting surfaces certainly offer a good chance to boost your greensin-regulation stats if your approach play is in shape, while the numerous bunkers are not the deep-pitted evil death traps that you find at some venues.

Another significant change that regular visitors to the course will soon notice is the removal of a row of electricity pylons that currently straddles the course. While not an uncommon sight at many courses across the UK, their disappearance is both welcome and timely, and will only serve to increase the enjoyment of a round here.

Although predominantly operated as a pay-and-play venue, with green fees starting from just £15 for midweek off-peak rounds, Twisted Stone also offers membership, with seven-day fees costing £1,050 a year, and fiveday £750, while juniors aged 14-18 can enjoy a year’s golf for only £150. In a laudable attempt to help grow the game, free membership is offered to under 14s, and without the need for a full-paying adult, although there restrictions on tee times.

Always a popular society and corporate golf day venue, midweek packages for the summer season start from £28.50 for coffee, bacon roll and 18-holes, up to £42 for the addition of a two-course meal to finish.

Visitors to Twisted Stone will be rewarded with a warm welcome, excellent hospitality, and a great value for money round of golf, and with the promise of better things to come, now is the time to join in the fun at the UK’s ‘newest’ old club.

GREEN FEE OFFER GOLF NEWS READERS CAN ENJOY AN EXCLUSIVE, ONE-OFF DISCOUNTED TWO-BALL GREEN FEE OF £30 (REPRESENTING A SAVING OF £20) BY QUOTING ‘GOLFNEWS OFFER’ WHEN BOOKING A ROUND BETWEEN NOW AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2017, SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. A BUGGY CAN BE ADDED TO THE PACKAGE FOR AN EXTRA £10. TO MAKE A BOOKING, CALL 01932 350355.

FOR MORE DETAILS ON MEMBERSHIP RATES, AND SOCIETY AND GROUP PACKAGES, EMAIL SALES@TWISTEDSTONEGC.CO.UK OR VISIT WWW.TWISTEDSTONEGC.CO.UK.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | AUGUST 2017

ENGLAND TAMES CELTIC TIGER TO WIN CELEBRITY CUP

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eam England were crowned winners of the 2017 Celebrity Cup at The Celtic Manor Resort, despite Gareth Bale wowing fans with his sporting abilities at the celebrity-filled tournament.

Bale took to the golf course alongside Welsh teammates comedian Rob Brydon, TV presenter Gethin Jones, ex-footballer Craig Bellamy, and rugby legends Jonathan Davies and Sir Gareth Edwards, in a bid to win the tournament at the golfing extravaganza at the Newport-based resort.

The competition saw Bale make a return to the tee at the 2010 Ryder Cup venue for the first time since 2015, with the Real Madrid star having been

WOKEFIELD FINDS MORE FLEXIBLE FRIENDS

■ GARETH BALE

forced to skip the event last year due to his driving role in Wales’s efforts at Euro 2016.

Fresh from claiming the Champions League trophy on home soil in Cardiff last month with Real Madrid, Bale was seen joking around and signing autographs for his many fans over the weekend.

Scotland won the competition twice, in 2013 and 2016; England

[15]

triumphed in 2014, and Wales took the title in 2015 – while it was England's turn to win the title this year.

The event saw crowds of more than 5,000 people watch on both days as stars including former England rugby player Mike Tindall, actor and presenter Bradley Walsh, Strictly Come Dancing’s Anton du Beke, Denise van Outen, former Boyzone band member Ronan Keating and actor James Nesbitt took to the course.

The Celebrity Cup was launched in 2013, with the team playing each other over nine holes in a roundrobin matchplay format, leading to a final and third-placed play-off. Ronan Keating’s family charity, the Marie Keating foundation – which was set up following his mother’s death in 1998 – also benefitted to the tune of £45,000. The foundation helps men and women prevent cancer, detect it at the earliest stages, and journey through cancer diagnosis, treatment and survivorship.

■ WOKEFIELD PARK

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e Vere Wokefield, one of four De Vere golf resorts in the UK, has generated more than £70,000 since adopting PlayMoreGolf’s flexible memberships.

The proprietary venue, located in Reading and home to a par-72 championship course, now has 250 active flexible members, including over 90 new joiners, following the successful launch of the pioneering points-based membership programme in March last year. Flexible membership rates start from £325, which offers a mimimum of 20 rounds.

Steve Dacre, group golf operations and sales manager at De Vere, commented: “De Vere was one of the early adopters of PlayMoreGolf’s flexible memberships, as it was important for us to be able to appeal to as wide a range of golfers as possible. There is a vast swathe of golfers today who only want to play occasionally and feel the ‘traditional’ golf membership doesn’t suit their lifestyle.

He added: “The revenue growth we have achieved since integrating PlayMoreGolf’s flexible membership alongside our existing categories, supports the decision to join the network.”

PlayMoreGolf’s flexible membership programme is ideally suited to transient, younger golfers and of the 250 new and

existing flexible members now at De Vere Wokefield, around 90% are under the age of 50.

“The lowering of the average age of our members is significantly important, as it not only helps to breathe new life into the venue, but will be an important factor in ensuring its ongoing success over the coming years,” continued Dacre. “In addition to the importance of continuing to grow the number of new members, equally as vital to us is the renewal rate and, since we have been working alongside PlayMoreGolf, ours now stands at 85%.”

Alongside Wokefield, golfers can also enjoy flexible memberships at three other De Vere venues – Selsdon Park in Surrey, Wychwood Park in Cheshire; and Staverton in Northamptonshire.

Since its introduction onto the UK market in February 2016, PlayMoreGolf’s flexible membership has attracted more than 2,000 members to its network of 44 partner venues.

WHITE BIDS TO GET PRO CAREER BACK ON TRACK WITH JENAHURA

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ormer England International and 2014 MENA Tour Order of Merit winner Josh White has taken the next step in his professional career by signing up a new management company to look after his professional affairs.

The 25 year old from Chipstead in Surrey is the latest professional to join Jenahura’s growing stable of talented tournament professionals. The agreement will see Jenahura manage

the former Berkshire Trophy winner for at least the next 18 months, as he battles back from injury following an impressive start to his professional career.

White claimed his first professional victory in Morocco in 2014, and his consistent play on one of the most progressive satellite tours in the same year earned him the coveted MENA Tour Order of Merit title – a terrific achievement in his first full year as a professional.

Martyn Norris, managing director at Jenahura., commented: “I first met Josh at the European Tour’s Qualifying School in 2014. It was immediately clear to me that he has the game for topflight professional golf. He has a great swing and a steely temperament, and when the opportunity came up to add Josh to our stable, it didn’t take much for me to convince my partners and

our sponsors to get Josh on board.”

White, who is a member at The Wisley Golf Club, said: “It’s been a frustrating year with injury, but I am back fighting fit and I am delighted that Jenahura are prepared to invest and help me to take my game to the next level. I know a few of the other guys and they speak very highly about the support they have received, and this is exactly what I need right now.”

Norris added: “We are excited to be working with Josh. He exudes all the characteristics that make up great player: focus, determination and confidence. He takes lines off tees that most people can only dream of. He has managed to put aside a couple of recent set-backs off the course, and I have no doubt that he will press on and become a top-50 player in the world in the years to come. It’s great to have him in our team.”

[16] AUGUST 2017 | NEWS

TODD CLEMENTS WINS ENGLISH AMATEUR

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ TODD CLEMENTS WITH THE ENGLISH AMATEUR TROPHY

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ssex’s Todd Clements won the English Amateur Championship after beating Jack Gaunt 2&1 in a thrilling 36-hole final held at The Berkshire Golf Club on August 6.

The 20-year-old from Braintree was thoroughly tested before he got his hands on the trophy, and he had to produce remarkable golf to seal his win on The Berkshire’s Red course.

Clements dominated play over the second nine of the morning round and came into lunch with a four-hole lead. He was quickly five up in the afternoon, and appeared to be cruising to victory, but Gaunt, from Drayton Park in Staffordshire, had other ideas.

In the space of just six holes he had pulled the match back to all square, with a par on the 22nd, three consecutive birdies from the

HEVER ADDS NEW DIMENSION TO COACHING

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ever Castle Golf Club has become the first and only golf venue in Kent to use a 3D motion capture system as part of its golf lessons.

Golfers can improve their swings without even setting foot on the course, thanks to the innovative Bull 3D System, which was introduced to the club by ■ SAM PITCAIRN EXPLAINS THE BULL 3D SYSTEM one of its golf pros, Sam Pitcairn.

During coaching sessions, 3D sensors are attached to the golfer – either on the course or in the indoor golf studio – and the information is then fed into a computer, which analyses position and swing movement. When used in the studio, golfers can watch a simulation on the screen of the way they are moving and analyse the results in order to improve their game. The machine can also emit a tone to indicate that the golfer has corrected the problem areas identified.

The Bull 3D system, which is used by England Golf teams and numerous county unions, can also help identify any limitations to range of movement, which can then be referred to the golf club’s on-site osteopath, Paul Moody, to help rectify. There are only 17 of these machines in the world, and this is the only one in Kent.

Pitcairn, who has been coaching for four years, said: “It gives me more information on what that individual is doing in terms of how their body is moving. Getting a fuller picture of how segments of the body and the golf club move during swing provides more accurate information, which enables me to problem solve and better answer my client’s questions when it comes to improving technique. I think it will be something you will see more and more in golf coaching in the future.”

Club member Phil Crust, who has used the new technology said: “The information from the Bull 3D system allowed us to see in even more detail the way my body was moving throughout the swing. Having discussed cause and effect of certain movements, we used biofeedback training, which I found most useful to help get my own thoughts and feel around the improvements we discussed to swing movements.”

23rd, and another birdie on the 27th. It was a stunning display, as he played an eight-iron to within a foot on one hole and then rammed

SAVILL AND TAYLOR SHARE SPOILS AT REIGATE

home a series of putts.

Clements withstood the onslaught, however, and produced his own amazing comeback as the match reached its climax. It started on the 28th, a challenging par three, where he fired a brave shot straight at the pin. He was rewarded with a winning birdie and returned to one up.

He kept his lead on the 30th with a fighting par, after he found a fairway bunker, played through the green, chipped back and holed the fourfooter to match Gaunt.

Then the dramatics began. On the long 31st, Clements chipped in for eagle three to go two up. On the 32nd, he holed a 30ft birdie putt to go three up. On the 33rd, with Gaunt already having conceded a birdie four, he holed another 30-footer for his own birdie and a crucial half.

He lost the 34th, where he missed the green, while Gaunt putted superbly from the back of the green to set up his par three. Then, with Gaunt bunkered in two on the long 35th, a solid par was enough for the title.

Speaking after his first significant amateur victory, Clements said: “What a way to start! It just proves that I can really compete at this level.

Two years ago I was just someone who turned up to enjoy a tournament; now I feel I can turn up and try to win.”

■ LOUIS SAVILL

E

psom’s Adam Taylor and Tandridge’s Louis Savill shot rounds of one-under-par 33 to share victory in the Reigate Heath 9-Hole Pro-Am. Splitting the £500 top prize and defying the rainy weather enjoyed by the groups playing in the morning, the pair edged out the level par cards of Silvermere’s James Ford, Tilgate Forest’s Lea Cooper and Bearwood Lakes Martin Woodbridge.

It was PGA Assistant Savill’s second win of the season, as he commented: “With heather and tree-lined fairways, course management was my best club in the bag today. Playing patiently yielded three birdies at the second, fourth and seventh, but two three putts and bogeys at the third and fifth underlined the speed of the challenging greens. But overall, my results are trending in the right direction.”

In the team event, again it was one of the groups of early starters that set the pace. Based

on the three best scores, Ford and members Mike Jones, Phil McKinley and Bill Seldon posted a score of 97 that remained unbeaten despite improved conditions in the afternoon.

The Morrison Solicitors' sponsored event also saw lunchtime entertainment in the form of a novel nearest-the-pin competition and a barbecue. With crowd-pleasing commentary from West Hill’s David Osborn, the PGA Professionals each had three shots from the first tee in front of the clubhouse downhill to the second green some 200 yards away, and it was Cherry Lodge’s Craig Sutherland who claimed the £100 prize.

PURLEY DOWNS CELEBRATES FAMILY LANDMARK

T

he old adage that families that play together stay together rang true at Purley Downs Golf Club last month, when staff and members past and present came together to mark brothers Mike and Bryan O’Neill’s combined 100 years’ membership at the club.

Ninety-four people attended the fun golf day at the Surrey-based club, with family members flying in from Australia to attend, as well as friends travelling the length and breadth of the country.

Retired businessman Mike O’Neill, 70, said: “Bryan and I felt our 50th anniversary of playing

at the club deserved a celebration, and what better way to celebrate than with many of the friends we have made at the club over the years, as well as our familie? We came up with the idea for staging a tournament a year ago, and a lot of planning went into the day.”

The O’Neill family is something of a golfing dynasty at Purley Downs. Mike and Bryan’s father Peter, who died in 2004, joined the club in 1964, and served as club secretary for two years. Their younger brother, John, who had a handicap of two, joined in 1965, but left in 1988 when he moved to Hampshire where he now plays at

Stoneham Golf Club.

Mike and Bryan joined in 1967. Both, like their father, became single figure handicap players. Bryan, 69, who runs his own building company, held the course record for a number of years. All three brothers won the Featherstone Cup and John was the Club Champion in 1973.

Purley Downs has been very much a part of the O’Neills’ family life. Mike met future wife

Lynne in 1972 at the club, when her father Denis Hapgood was the club captain, and when Bryan and Lynda married 34 years ago, the wedding reception was held at the club.

Their two wives, Lynne and Lynda, are also

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | AUGUST 2017

[17]

OAK PARK LOOKS TO THE FUTURE WITH NEW MANAGEMENT TEAM O

ne of the UK’s most successful golf coaches has returned to Oak Park Golf Club to head an all-new management team, pledging to restore its reputation as one of the south’s most popular and welcoming golf clubs.

Gavin Grenville-Wood (pictured below) is the new general manager at Oak Park, a secluded and tree-lined 27-hole club close to the Surrey/Hampshire border in the village of Crondall, near Farnham.

Alongside Oak Park’s new course manager Anthony Burnell and the club’s new head chef Mick Ogden, Grenville-Wood heads a new core management team which is already creating change at the club.

“There is a new atmosphere here at Oak Park,” he said. “You’ll notice it in the way our staff members now interact with people, in the way we take care of the smallest details, and how the club is presented throughout your visit. I think the images on our busy Instagram account are inspirational – they show the vibrant and positive new spirit at the golf club.

“This year, our members are saying that the golf courses are in better condition than at any point in the last 20 years,” said Grenville-Wood. “So the golf is fantastic, the food is fantastic, and we’re making improvements across the board. It’s a great time for people to come back to Oak Park and see all the changes we have been making."

Grenville-Wood spent five years at Oak Park as academy manager from 2008-13, setting UK records for junior golf participation with as many as 400 children receiving golf lessons there each week. Under his influence, the club is now targeting a return to its former status as one of the country’s leading places to learn to play golf.

“When you attract children to a golf club, you also attract their parents, relatives and friends” he said. “It becomes a family game, and a family environment. Our job here is not only to attract people to our sport, but also to make sure that they remain in it, loving their golf club and the friends they make here.”

■ OAK PARK GOLF CLUB

ERINVALE

GOLF FESTIVAL SOUTH AFRICA MARCH 4TH – 17TH 2018

GOLF WEEKS INTERNATIONAL

“ I have been running golf festivals at Erinvale since 2007. These events are designed to have organised competitive, but fun golf, evenings out, and free days to explore the wonderful Western Cape. I can’t think of a better way to start the 2018 season.”

MARCH 4TH – 17TH 2018 members and Lynda served as lady captain in 2011. Mike’s son Mark was a member until he moved to Australia.

Bryan said: “The club is like a family.

In 50 years of playing golf, I have never become bored with it. That’s because this is a challenging course, which even the best golfers have to work hard to master. We have many happy memories of playing here and of the many wonderful people we have played with.

The O’Neill Day at the club gave us the chance to meet up again and have fun golf, as well as a good meal and a few glasses or two.”

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For a full brochure or further details, contact Ken Stevely on 07803 921737, or email ken@golfweeksinternational.com

[18] AUGUST 2017 | COURSE REVIEW

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

COURSE REVIEW COURSE REVIEW

CHART HILLS GOLF CLUB, KENT

The Nick Faldo-designed course at Chart Hills is set to return to championship condition following its purchase by Kings Resorts, which is investing considerable sums to put the iconic Kent club back on the golfing map WORDS BY NICK BAYLY

I

■ CHART HILLS REMAINS ONE OF ONLY TWO COURSES DESIGNED BY NICK FALDO IN THE UK

’ve been a regular visitor to Chart Hills ever since it first opened in 1993. One of the most ambitious new openings of the decade, the Biddenden-based club opened at a time when golf was far more popular than cycling. It was an unashamedly showpiece venue that attracted huge interest among the local and wider golfing public, and proved an instant hit not only as members’ club, but also as a corporate, society, and, of course, professional tournament venue.

Receiving an invitation to play here was a guarantee of a great day out, playing on a seriously challenging championship golf course designed by the legendary Nick Faldo, as well as enjoying the first-class service in the impressive clubhouse that overlooks the course and the surrounding countryside of the Kentish Weald.

I can still recall the tingle of excitement, mixed with a bit of prematch nervous tension, whenever I turned through the gates and made my way up the short drive to the clubhouse.

It had quality stamped all over it – from the moment you entered, to the moment you left.

The 7,119-yard layout, which mixes a parkland design with elements of links, earned plenty of plaudits from the off, and featured high up the various UK course rankings almost as soon as it opened – 33rd, if you’re asking – and it wasn’t long before its quality attracted the attention of the professional circuit.

The Ladies European Tour brought the Kronenbourg 1664 Chart Hills Classic here in 2000, and returned again in 2004 with four consecutive years of the Ladies English Open, while the European

Tour held the opening stages of final qualifying here for many years.

Fast forward to 2017, though, and it’s a very different Chart Hills that you will find. After several years of under-investment, it was sold by the Leaderboard Group in 2016, with the new owner, Kings Resorts, inheriting a course that was in dire need of a bit of TLC. Make that a lot of TLC. For starters, all of the course’s 90-plus bunkers were declared GUR; the greens were full of disease and thatch; the ponds and ditches were all overgrown; the tee boxes had little grass coverage; the fairways were full of moss; and the soil was very compact. To add insult to injury, the trees, bushes and hedges that surround and frame the course were all overgrown and out of control.

As a direct and obvious consequence, members left in their droves, corporate golf days went unbooked, and societies stayed away. Those that did return were disappointed to find a diamond that had barely been cut, let alone polished.

The management at Kings Resorts, which owns four other clubs, including The Buckinghamshire and Old Thorns, clearly enjoy a challenge. And a challenge they’ve got, not only in returning Faldo’s magnificent course to its rightful place in the English golfing firmament, but also in restoring golfers’ confidence in Chart Hills as an overall golfing experience.

So far, the chances of them achieving both look promising. Since completing the purchase at the end of last year, the new owner has invested over £1.5million in repairing the damage, while its hardworking green staff have been busy righting the wrongs, and getting the

course back on its proverbial feet.

As the most pressing matter, the bunkers have been subject to a complete renovation project that has seen the old sand removed, drainage replaced and upgraded, new linings laid down, new sand dumped, and artificial turf walls put in place. The greens, once the envy of course managers all over the country, were also in a sorry state at the time of the handover, but work to bring them back up to tour standard has already begun in earnest, with the surfaces gradented to reduce the thatch levels and over-seeded with a new strain of creeping bent grass. A monthly top dressing programming has also been introduced throughout the playing season, while a new feed and fertiliser schedule will also help to encourage a consistent and even putting surface.

The fairways, which had compacted

to the point where they were unable to soak up water, required even more dramatic attention, and were ‘earthquaked’ to break up the soil and enhance drainage.

The ponds and ditches that form an integral role in the drama of the layout were also in a desperate state, and have received some much-needed attention, with those on the first, second, fourth and fifth holes, as well as areas surrounding clubhouse, having already been cleaned up.

The cosmetics of the course have also been tackled, with trees felled and cut back to introduce more light to the holes; bushes and hedges managed; and areas of thistles and nettles cut back from key playing areas.

To achieve these dramatic improvements the club has had to invest heavily in new machinery, including new diggers, dumper trucks and seed injection machines, while the existing greenkeeper’s compound has been enlarged and upgraded to meet the demands of all this new equipment.

In addition to the golf course investments, the off-course operations havebeen upgraded, with the car park area receiving a brush up, six new flag poles erected, and fences put up around the clubhouse. A new computer management system has also gone live to better manage tee bookings, membership, stock, retail, reports, and direct debit collection.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

COURSE REVIEW | AUGUST 2017

[19]

THE MOST PRESSING MATTER, THE BUNKERS, HAVE BEEN SUBJECT TO A COMPLETE RENOVATION PROJECT THAT HAS SEEN THE OLD SAND REMOVED, DRAINAGE REPLACED AND UPGRADED, NEW LININGS LAID DOWN, NEW SAND DUMPED, AND ARTIFICIAL TURF WALLS PUT IN PLACE

■ ALL 95 BUNKERS ARE BEING RELINED AND REFILLED AS PART OF A MAJOR RENOVATION PROJECT

Future works include a five-year overseeding and top dressing programme for the greens and fairways; the leveling all the tee boxes (including the introduction of seven new tees to extend the course to 7,200 yards); and the repair and, if required, rebuilding of all the bridges on the course; and the removal and relaying of the buggy paths – which will be graced by a fleet of 24 new buggies.

The entrance to the club, that allimportant first touch point, will also receive a much-needed facelift, with a new walled entrance and new security gates.

A fire sadly destroyed half the

clubhouse in 2005, which later resulted in a renovation and expansion programme, which was more in line with the ambitions of the golf course.

The refurbished facilities include new conference facilities, function rooms, bars, lounges, and a sun terrace, all of which allow private functions, such as corporate days and weddings, to be hosted without impacting on the club’s other day-to-day activities. Fortunately the fire failed to reach the club’s infamous spike bar, with its fabulous views overlooking the first, ninth and 18th holes. With wonderful panoramic vista, it’s hard not to feel that you’re the captain sitting in the bridge of the ship

■ CHART HILLS'S ICONIC 9TH HOLE OFFERS A SEA OF SAND AS YOU CLIMB TOWARDS THE GREEN

sailing the high seas – only the view is green, rather than blue.

And what of the course itself?

When Faldo was faced with the task of designing Chart Hills, a name derived from a series of Royal Charters first issued in 762 AD, he reckoned he had found the perfect piece of land: 200 acres of gently undulating hills. From this he moolded a championship course, which proved a instant hit with the golfing community, and was a regular winner of 'Following the Fairways’ ‘Best New Course in England’, until such time as it was no longer considered new.

Part of the course’s enduring attraction, as Sir Nick rightly predicted, is that golfers never tire of playing it.

Considered one of the six-time Major champion’s best courses – despite many recent additions to his portfolio around the world - Chart Hills lent itself perfectly for professional events because that was precisely the way it was designed. It has between 80-100 yards of raised rough in between the adjoining fairways, so it feels like a very quiet course when you are playing, while the same raised rough gives spectators excellent vantage points during tournaments.

Whatever hopes you have of taming it almost visibly ebb through your hands as you step on to the first tee and ponder your first shot on the 599yard par five. Those of a less nervous disposition will prefer to take in the farreaching views over the Kentish Weald.

They will also admire the 200-year-old oaks generously distributed over the rolling course and take in the clusters of fairway bunkers splattered about the course, winding creeks just where you don't want them, sweeping doglegs, some wicked pin positions, and steep bunkers threatening every approach shot to large undulating greens. It's

an alluring prospect, which promises excitement at every turn.

For some people Chart Hills equals bunkers. And while there are lots of them, that would be forgetting another score-ruining hazard, water, which comes into play on 13 holes. Thankfully, Faldo also designed the course to be played by mere mortals, not just scratch golfers, and each hole enjoys five different teeing positions. The back tees are suitably tough to play from, with long carries and a lot of Kent between tee and green. The carries are especially taxing during summer months when the traditional rough raises to about 18 inches.

With a card stacked full of good holes to be enjoyed, picking out highlights seems churlish, but the second and 13th are among personal favourites — tough, but offering a vital element of risk and reward. Each hole is so special that when you’ve finished playing, even for the first time, almost every shot – whether good or bad - will linger in the memory.

Faldo didn't forget to leave his mark on the course in the form of some memorable signature features either: the attractive island green at the short par-3 17th hole and a 200-yard snake-like bunker, the longest in the country, which wriggles down the side of and across the fairway on the par-5 fifth hole, fittingly named the Anaconda. Anyone coming off the excellent finishing hole with a score anything close to their handicap can walk away with head held high and take a moment to savour their achievement in the clubhouse.

All told, Chart Hills very much remains a work in progress, but it’s definitely progressing, and those prepared to accept that, could be joining the rebirth of one of the UK’s best clubs at just the right time.

MEMBERSHIP AND GOLF BOOKINGS MEMBERSHIP, WITH NO JOINING FEE, IS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE ACROSS ALL CATEGORIES, WITH FIVE-DAY ADULT MEMBERSHIP COSTING £1,650 AND SEVEN-DAY PRICED AT £2,268. WEEKDAY GREEN FEES CAN BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE FOR JUST £45 ON MON-THURS (£35 AFTER 3PM), AND £50 ON FRIDAYS AND WEEKENDS, WHILE GOLF GROUP PACKAGES ARE AVAILABLE FROM £50PP. FOR TEE TIME BOOKINGS CALL 01580 292148, OR FOR MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES OR GROUP BOOKINGS, CALL JAMES CORNISH ON 01580 292222 OR VISIT WWW.CHARTHILLS.CO.UK.

[20] AUGUST 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

PLANT SAVOURS SILVER LININGS AS PRO CAREER BECKONS Kent amateur Alfie Plant followed Justin Rose and Rory McIlroy in winning the Silver Medal at The Open, and the youngster from Sundridge Park looks set to have a bright future when he joins the paid ranks after the Walker Cup

W

hile Alfie Plant was unable to hear the huge cheer that went up in the clubhouse at Sundridge Park Golf Club in Kent when he holed out on the 18th hole at Royal Birkdale to win the Silver Medal at last month’s Open Championship, he will no doubt have keenly felt the support of the members who have followed his every move since he began to make his way in the amateur game.

The club has been gripped by ‘Alfie Fever’ ever since his impressive victory at the European Amateur Championship at Walton Heath in June, which secured Plant’s place in the field for the 146th Open Championship.

And following his miraculous performance to win the Silver Medal as the leading amateur, his status at the club has become legendary.

Support for ‘#TeamAlfie’ had been building steadily since the 25 year old won the

Lytham Trophy in 2016, and it hit another gear when the Sundridge protégé made an historic putt to secure a runner-up place for England in the World Team Championships at the back end of last year. But it is his performances over the last few weeks that have taken Plant’s following to a whole new level, and the Sundridge members, who had a whipround to fund his expenses for the week in Southport, can’t wait to see what comes next.

Plant’s performance at Royal Birkdale means he joins an illustrious band of previous Silver Medal winners, which includes Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Justin Rose, who famously holed out on the 18th at Royal Birkdale for fourth place as a 17-year-old amateur in 1998.

He alsohad the distinction of seeing his name briefly at the top of the leaderboard

■ PLANT TEES OFF AT BIRKDALE WITH 'TEAM ALFIE' IN TOW

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GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | AUGUST 2017

[21]

IT SENT SHIVERS UP MY SPINE WALKING UP THE LAST,” SAID PLANT, WHO HAD HIS YOUNGER BROTHER, ARTHUR, ON HIS BAG FOR THE WEEK. “IT WAS SUCH A GOOD FEELING. I DIDN’T WANT IT TO END. IT WAS A GREAT WEEK he is long odds-on to secure a place in the Walker Cup team in September, after which a career in the professional ranks looms large.

"There are some big names that have won the Silver Medal, but there are also others who get forgotten,” he said. “I have a great team around me, and I need to sit down and think about what the next steps will be, and think about what will be right for the future. I'm hopefully going to be picked for the Walker Cup, then I will turn pro. Then I will try for European Tour Qualifying School after that.”

Already lining up potential sponsors and equipment contracts, Plant added: “There are probably a lot of discussions that need to be had with management companies regarding the business side of things. I'm sure they're going to start happening thick and fast. I'd like to definitely get something sorted out when the time comes. I feel like I'm something different to what’s out there. I'm quite relaxed – I don't mind having a laugh and a joke."

When not representing England or playing in tournaments, Plant is still a regular face at Sundridge Park, and he can often be found out on the course with the members, facing stiff opposition from some of the other scratch players. But whatever the future holds for him, the ever-growing ‘Team Alfie’ will be right behind him.

■ PLANT RECIEVED HIS SILVER MEDAL ALONGSIDE WINNER JORDAN SPIETH AND RUNNER UP MATT KUCHAR

when he was one under after the first two holes of the championship, and he went to shoot one over 71 in the first round. A 73 in the second saw him make the cut with a shot to spare – the only amateur to do so – helped by a crucial eagle three on the 15th. The third round brought his best score of a one-under par 69, and he signed off with 73 for a total of six over par.

Scottish international Connor Syme finished on nine over after 36 holes, while Italy's Luca Cianchetti was two shots worse off and American Maverick McNealy and Hampshire's Harry Ellis, the amateur champion, were both on 12 over.

As an amateur, Plant was unable to pick up the £20,000 prize money he would have

won for finishing tied 62nd, a sum that would have considerably boosted the coffers drained by years of having to combine part-time jobs with his busy playing and practising schedule. Earlier in the year, he gave up a job with the Royal Mail in order to concentrate full-time on his golfing aspirations, a calculated risk that now looks to have paid off handsomely.

Asked what he would have spent the prize money on if he had been a professional, Plant joked: “If you’d asked my girlfriend, Daisy, she’d definitely have said a ring, but it would more likely be a Haribo one!”

His Open experience culminated with the spine-tingling walk up 18 to tremendous applause from the packed grandstands, which he acknowledged by raising his white cap, and then the presentation ceremony, where he took his place alongside the champion Jordan Speith and runner-up Matt Kuchar, before being presented with his Silver Medal.

“It sent shivers up my spine, walking up the last,” said Plant, who had his younger brother, Arthur, on his bag for the week. “It was such a

good feeling. I didn’t want it to end. It was a great week.”

There soon followed a stampede of 20 ‘Team Alfie’ supporters, all kitted out in team t-shirts, comprising family and friends who had all made the long journey up from Kent to support their man, for the obligatory group photo besides the 18th green.

As if Plant’s success weren’t emotional enough, it had extra special significance following the death of his greatgrandmother, Joyce, just a week before the championship. So busy was the family’s schedule that they had to delay the funeral until two days after the Open had finished, while Plant had a special golf bag made up that had the motto ‘Do it for your Nan’ inscribed on it.

“I did all I could to stop myself from crying out there,” he said. “I tried to put it to the back of my mind, but every time I looked at the bag, I got a gentle reminder. She was with me for all 72 holes.”

With a Silver Medal in his grasp, the world is at Plant’s feet, and following appearances at the English Amateur and the US Amateur,

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[22] AUGUST 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

REASONS 1. ACCESSIBLE LOCATION Hassocks Golf Club is located just five miles north of Brighton, close to the M23, and is easily accessible by car or train, with the station just a few minutes’ walk away.

2. WELCOMING, RELAXED ATMOSPHERE

TO

VISIT

HASSOCKS GOLF CLUB EAST SUSSEX

5. WELL-STOCKED PRO SHOP & EXPERT COACHING Head Professional Mike Ovett offers a comprehensive selection of top-name equipment and accessories in his shop, including Titleist, Callaway and TaylorMade, as well as leading clothing brands such as Galvin Green and J Lindeberg. Mike and his staff of PGAqualified pros are also available to offer group and

Hassocks offers a warm welcome to all visitors, with no

one-on-one tuition to all levels of golfer. Practice

restrictions placed on access to the golf course, with

facilities include a 250-yard driving range and a

green fee players welcome at any time of the day or

practice putting green, while there is also an indoor

week. There are relaxed dress codes on the golf course

swing studio fitted with a SkyTrak launch monitor,

and in the clubhouse. The club boasts a busy veterans’

which can be used for private lessons and custom

section, which is always happy to incorporate new

fitting, or hired out for groups to play simulated

members into its golfing and social activities.

rounds on famous courses, including Augusta, Sawgrass and Pebble Beach.

3. QUALITY PARKLAND GOLF

6. SUPERB HOSPITALITY

First opened in 1995, Hassocks boasts an 18-hole mature parkland course that offers stunning views of

The clubhouse features a superb bar and 70-cover

the South Downs National Park. Constructed on largely

restaurant, and also provides a private room for

flat, easy-walking ground, the recently extended 6,350-yard layout is designed in two loops of nine,

OPEN DAY

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HASSOCKS GOLF CLUB IS HOSTING AN OPEN

hole packages. Strategic skills are required to manage

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PRE-REGISTERED VISITORS WILL BE ABLE TO

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out of bounds hugging the hole tightly all the way to the green.

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offering some of the best-conditioned playing surfaces in the region, with its USGA-specfication greens always rolling smooth and true. The club also prides itself on never having to resort to using winter tees or winter greens.

societies, as well as a lounge area for watching sporting events. The quality of the catering, incorporating many imaginative dishes, as well as more traditional golf club fare, is exceptional, while there is a great choice of real ales on tap.

7. AFFORDABILITY Whether playing as a casual green fee visitor, part of a society, or looking to join as a full-time member, Hassocks offers great value for money. Fourballs can enjoy 18 holes for as little as £60 on weekdays, and £75 at weekends, while societies can sit down to a full English breakfast followed by 18 holes for £19pp during the week, and £24 at weekends. Membership starts from £299 for unlimited golf for six months,

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GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | AUGUST 2017

BMW PGA CHAMPIONSHIP MOVES TO SEPTEMBER

T

he BMW PGA Championship, the European Tour’s showpiece event on UK soil, is to move from its current date in May to a new September slot from the 2019 season onwards.

The move comes following a decision by the PGA Tour, in consultation with the European Tour, to move the US PGA Championship from its traditional August date to a new date in May. The PGA Tour’s Players Championship, which also takes place in May, will now move to a new date in March.

The BMW PGA Championship, which is part of the European Tour’s Rolex Series, will be played

at Wentworth from May 24-27 in 2018, before moving to September for its 65th anniversary edition the following year.

The specific date of the 2019 BMW PGA Championship will be released in due course, but it will be central to a strong end of season schedule on the European Tour. Keith Pelley, chief executive of the European Tour, said: “Significant changes to the global golfing calendar have given us the opportunity to move the BMW PGA Championship to a more favourable date from 2019 onwards.

“Wentworth Club is an iconic location in the realm of British sport, and the BMW PGA Championship

■ THE PGA WILL MOVE TO SEPTEMBER FROM 2019

FINLAY‘S FIRST IN FRANZ KLAMMER TROPHY

is always hugely popular with the public, as was seen in May, when it launched our Rolex Series with 110,000 spectators in attendance over the course of the week. This is a new chapter for the event, but we expect similar interest in the autumn, as was shown historically by the World Match Play Championship when it was played at Wentworth Club at that time of the year.”

The BMW PGA Championship was the first of eight Rolex Series events to be played on the European Tour’s schedule in 2017.

Sweden’s Alex Noren claimed the title in May, overturning a sevenshot deficit with a final round of 62 to win by two strokes over the West Course, which had undergone a revamp in the period between the 2016 and 2017 championships.

GREENHALGH GRABS THE GLORY AT ADDINGTON PRO-AM

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■ CHRIS LLOYD WITH MANNINGS HEATH'S GENERAL MANAGER OF GOLF ADAM STREETER

LLOYD’S IN THE MONEY AT MANNINGS HEATH

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ristol pro Chris Lloyd is on the brink of making EuroPro Tour history, and netting the £250,000 four-win bonus in the process, after claiming his third victory of the season in the Nokia Masters at Mannings Heath Golf Club & Wine Estate.

Lloyd fought off fierce competition, mainly from the in-form Guy Woodman, who fired a course record nine-under-par 63 over the Horsham-based club’s Waterfall Course to pile on the pressure in the final round of the 54-hole tournament. But it wasn’t enough to stop Lloyd, who collected nine birdies and just one bogey in a final round 64 that took him to 14 under par for the tournament, and a two-shot win, following earlier rounds of 69 and 69.

The tournament schedule was thrown out of kilter by this summer’s run of bad weather, with heavy downpours on the first day causing play to be suspended with the final group having only played four holes of their first round. Thankfully the rain relented for day two, and a 7am start ensured players completed their second round in good time.

“I’m delighted – it was a very exciting final day,” said Lloyd, whose wins earlier this season came at the Scottish Masters and the PDC Golf Championship. “I knew if I got off to a quick start I might have a chance.”

Lloyd won £10,000, as well as a brand new Motocaddy, Bushnel Range Finder and Bolle sunglasses for his efforts, which moved him £14,000 clear at the top of the Race To Amendoeira Order of Merit.

With six events left in the season, including the Tour Championship in Portugal, Lloyd’s dream of becoming the first player to win four EuroPro Tour titles in a single season – which comes with a £250,000 bonus prize – could soon become a reality. Speaking at Mannings Heath, The Kendleshire-based man said: “It has just got very real, I’m playing in five more events with the chance to win a quarter of a million pounds, and I like my odds.”

Barry Hearn, chairman of the EuroPro Tour, said: “The standard on the EuroPro has been getting better and better over recent years, so this season we laid down a gauntlet, and Chris Lloyd has picked that gauntlet up. We want to reward the very best young golfers in Europe, and Chris is grabbing this golden opportunity with both hands. It’s unthinkable that he won’t finish in our top five and progress to the Challenge Tour next season, if not even further. He has the form, he has the winning mentality, and he now has six more chances to seize a life-changing amount of money.”

[23]

urrey National’s Ben Greenhalgh shot a three-under-par 66 to win The Addington Pro-Am by two shots.

Based on past experience, Greenhalgh knew how to plot his way around the testing Surrey course, and he made a great start by deucing the opening hole, and while the par-three third took its revenge, he made another two at the seventh to be out in one under par.

Another short hole, this time the 11th, bit back and put him on level par yet again, but Greenhalgh bounced right back with a sbirdie at the par-five 12th. He made par at the demanding 13th, a hole where most of the field was dropping a stroke, and then birdied the 14th. Nosing into the lead, he made a decisive move up the 18th, with an impressive birdie on one of The Addington’s tougher holes to finish with a winning card of 66.

Delighted with his performance, Greenhalgh said: “It’s such an inspiring course, a classic in its own right, and in terrific condition as well. It was an interesting card for 13 holes, with all the action being on the par threes, but I was pleased with the way I played the five finishing holes, especially that birdie up the 18th.”

His nearest rivals comprised three players on one under par – Stoke Park’s Van Phillips, PGA South Order of Merit champion Adam Wootton, and Mid Sussex’s Mark Fairhall.

HORTON PARK HOSTS FIRST JUNIOR OPEN

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eritage clothing brand Alan Paine launched its inaugural Junior Open tournament at Horton Park Golf Club in Surrey on July 16.

Twenty junior golfers took to the beautiful Epsom course to compete for the Alan Paine Trophy, and, despite tough, windy conditions, the standard of golf was extremely high.

The gross score winners were Lucas Gamble (78), Jamie Kapadia (79) and Matt Cooper (81), while the nett winners were Chris Man (65), Louis Wilkinson (68) and Joss Wells (70).

Alan Paine’s owner and managing director James Hinton was extremely keen to sponsor the event at his local club, and the tournament is set to become a regular annual event.

Frilford Heath’s Finlay Szafnauer won the prestigious Franz Klammer Trophy after shooting a three-overpar 75 at the testing course at Bad Kleinkirchheim Golf Club in Austria.

The annual tournament was hosted by the former Olympic and world champion downhill skier and attracted a field of 90 men and 60 women. Szafnauer won by three shots strokes after negotiating the mountainous course, which is noted for its narrow fairways and small greens.

HERBERT WINS BB&O JUNIOR CHAMPS Harewood Downs’ Charlie Herbert won the BB&O Junior Championship after firing rounds of 75 and 68. He finished one shot ahead of Melan Dhaubhadel (Calcot Park), whose final round 66 was not quite enough to reel in the winner.

Sebastian Donaldson finished third on countback with two rounds of 72.

The U15 trophy was won by Taylor Paul (Stoke Park) with 149 (+5), with Will Tate in second on 153 (+9). The U16 trophy was won by Dhaubhadel, who, as he did in the main event, pipped Donaldson on countback.

The Handicap Trophy was won by home player Dillon West (Buckinghamshire), whose 138 who beat the newly-crowned U14 champion Ben McFadden (Stoke Park), who had 140.

HUGHES SECEURES SENIORS AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP Bryan Hughes won the Seniors Amateur Championship at Sunningdale to become the first Englishman since Roy Smethurst in 2003 to claim the title.

Hughes, from Hesketh in Lancashire, ended a sequence of seven consecutive wins by Americans in the championship after beating Doug Hanzel and Gene Elliot of the United States and South African Steven Williams by two shots.

The 55-year-old was on the reserve list only, but after receiving a late entry into the championship, completed the final round with a three-under-par 67 to lift the trophy on a four-over-par total of 214. He earns an exemption for the 2018 Senior Open being staged at the Old Course, St Andrews in July.

SOUTHERN STUDENTS DOMINATE GREENKEEPER OF THE YEAR SHORTLIST Eight of the 12 greenkeepers shortlisted for the 2017 Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards represent golf clubs from the south east of England.

Graham Hastie (Stoneham), Levi Pethick (Stoneham), Matthew Kitson (Royal Mid Surrey), Michael Budd (Westerham), and Nick Machin (Royal Cinque Ports) have all been shortlisted for the prestigious title, which is now in its 29th year and comes with the prize of a all-expenses paid six-week residential turf management study course at the University of Massachusetts in the US, a trip to the Golf Industry Show, and a visit to the Toro factory. The sixth shortlisted student is Chloe Gallagher from Ramside in Durham.

The final begins on September 11, when candidates will join an industry discussion group hosted by BIGGA Chairman Les Howkins, before being asked to undertake a variety of tasks, culminating in the awards presentation, which will take place on September 12.

[24] AUGUST 2017 | NEWS

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PHIL STRIKES GOLD AT SWISS OPEN P hil Golding captured his first win on the European Senior Tour in three years when shooting a final round 63 to win the Swiss Seniors Open at Bad Ragaz Golf Club.

The 54 year old from London, whose last victory came in 2014 at the French Riviera Masters, started the final day four shots behind overnight leader Mark Mouland, but quickly raced up the leaderboard with three consecutive birdies from the second hole to the fourth hole.

Golding made further gains on the 10th, 11th and 12th holes, and then birdied the 16th to move to 15 under par, which gave him a oneshot lead over Mark McNulty.

“It’s been a couple of years since I won,” said Golding, who won the French Open on the European Tour back in 2003. “When you win, it doesn’t matter where you win – it’s fantastic.

I’m really happy. I was thinking all the way round that I needed to keep pushing. I set a target of 16 under par and, fortunately, 15 under did the trick. I finished in the top ten here last year with two 65s on the weekend.

I managed to putt a lot better this week.

I changed my putter ■ PHIL GOLDING CELEBRATED HIS FIRST SENIOR WIN SINCE 2014 and it made all the difference.”

– you really have to putt well – but there are lots Golding, who has finished no lower than 11th of opportunities for birdies. But whenever you in his last four appearances at the Swiss Seniors are in contention, the fairways get a little smaller, Open, added: “I love the course. It’s a tricky place and the holes get a little smaller too!”

ROYAL ASCOT TO HOST LIMBCARE CHARITY DAY

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olfers who would like to raise money for the Disabled Golf Association and enjoy a fine day’s golf on one of the south’s top tracks should sign up for the Disabled Golf Association Limbcare Charity Day being held at Royal Ascot Golf Club on the September 29.

The day, which includes a light breakfast, 18 holes of golf and a one-course meal, costs £180 for a team of four, with lots of competitions with great prizes, followed by an auction to raise money for the DGA and Limbcare.

To enter a team, or for more details, email Graeme Robertson at Robertson1963@hotmail. co.uk or call 07753 576300.

SKYTRAK HOLEIN-ONE PRIZE UP FOR GRABS AT SKYCADDIE PGA PRO-CAPTAIN CHALLENGE

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GA professionals and club captains were in action at Hayling Golf Club in Hampshire last month, in the first regional qualifier of this year’s SkyCaddie PGA Pro-Captain Challenge in association with Golfplan.

The ten-round Pro-Captain Challenge is one of the PGA’s most keenly-contested events each year, with over 400 club captains expected to take part this year, each playing alongside a PGA professional from his or her golf club.

Brokenhurst Manor PGA professional Kevin Saunders and club captain Richard Walker took the honours in round one with 46 points, picking up not only a win, but also a trip to the 2017 PGA ProCaptain Challenge Final to be held in Morocco in

November on the Gary Player-designed Mazagan Beach and Golf Resort near Casablanca.

Saunders was one of many competitors who took advantage of SkyCaddie’s Pin Position feature by using a SkyCaddie Touch during the event, pre-loaded with the day’s pin positions, as well as distances to dozens of target points on each hole.

A SkyTrak demonstration in a marquee besides Hayling’s clubhouse proved a big draw for competitors, with the first person to score a SkyTrak hole-in-one during this year’s tournament winning a SkyTrak golf launch monitor worth £1,895. Mark Howell, a PGA professional from Henley, came

closest to winning the prize with a shot to just 32 inches on the 17th hole at Bay Hill, but as no ace was scored, the prize is still up for grabs with nine more regional qualifiers yet to come.

Ironically there was a hole-in-one in the tournament proper – an ace on the 11th hole by Charles Giddins, the PGA Professional at Beauport Park.

SkyCaddie’s James Holmes said: “The ProCaptain format fits perfectly for SkyCaddie, as we work daily with PGA professionals to get our messages through to club golfers. We don’t map for anyone else, and you can trust our yardages because we update them continuously on foot.

The PGA Pro-Captain Challenge enables us to spread those messages throughout the UK.”

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NEWS | AUGUST 2017 [25]

BRILLIANT BURNAGE BAGS SOUTH OF ENGLAND TITLE

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BRAMSHAW HONOURS LONGSERVING COURSE MANAGER

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ramshaw Golf Club has honoured its long-serving course manager, Jason Buckmaster, by presenting him with a special award in recognition of his 30 years’ work at the New Forestbased club.

Starting in 1987, Buckmaster began his career at Bramshaw as a young apprentice, quickly acquiring all the necessary greenkeeping qualifications, and, on acquisition of its second club, Dunwood Manor, he progressed to the position of head greenkeeper.

He was promoted to the position of course manager at both venues in 2006, until Dunwood Manor’s closure in 2012, since when he has dedicated his time to Bramshaw, where he currently manages a team of nine greenkeepers across its two 18-hole courses – the Manor, and Hampshire's oldest golf course, the Forest.

During this time, he has played an integral role in bringing about many significant improvements to the Manor Course, so that it is now recognised as one of the best courses in Hampshire. He's also been instrumental in the reconfiguration of the Forest Course, working hard to develop new greens on the forest

heathland, due to officially launch in spring 2018.

Stuart James, Bramshaw's general manager, said: "I am absolutely delighted to not only recognise and congratulate Jason on his milestone achievement, but to also personally offer my sincerest thanks for his unwavering support. It's been an absolute pleasure working with him. His positive and professional demeanour, living and breathing his job, is a credit to him. On behalf of all the members and Brook Enterprises Ltd, I sincerely thank him for all the hard work and dedication he's given the club over 30 years.”

After being presented with his award, Buckmaster said: "I thoroughly enjoy working at Bramshaw. The family owners have been a pleasure to work for, and have also continually invested in both golf courses, enabling me to grow and expand my knowledge and experience. I'm very fortunate to work with a great team. With the relaunch of the Forest Course next year, working at Bramshaw continues to be an exciting place to work."

the final tee, only to drive his ball into thick heather on top ake Burnage moved himself into Walker Cup contention of a bunker. With Yule holing for a birdie three, Burnage after chalking up an impressive victory in the South of needed to two-putt from 25 feet for victory. Anxious England Open Amateur Championship held at Walton Heath. parents, Clive and Louise, could scarcely watch as their son The 22 year old from North Devon had earmarked victory slid his first putt a tantalising four feet past. The tension of at the Surrey venue as the first of two objectives designed to the moment seemed to escape Burnage, who calmly holed convince Great Britain & Ireland selectors to pick him for the out to take the title by a single shot. match against the United States in Los Angeles this autumn, “I really went for the par putt, because I knew that would with the second being a strong performance in the English reduce my handicap to plus five,” he said. “The return putt Amateur Championship at The Berkshire. did not bother me at all.”

“My aim was to knock down the door with a Burnage, who didn’t take up golf until he was 16, is sledgehammer with my results,” the Saunton member said undoubtedly on a steep rise to stardom. Victory in the in reference to possible selection.

Hampshire Hog by five strokes, with rounds of 67 and 66 The prize for winning the SEOC is the Michael Lunt Trophy, might have been his previous career highlight, but there named in honour of one of the finest British amateurs of his was also a third place in the Lytham Trophy and a runner-up generation, who became a Walker Cup stalwart with his four spot in the Brabazon Trophy among eight top-10 finishes. appearances between 1959 and 1965. Walton Heath Golf However, he is yet to earn a place in the full England Club, which he captained in 2005, chose to celebrate his international team, which might prove a stumbling block career by commissioning a trophy in his name. when it comes to Walker Cup selection.

Burnage put his own name on the piece of silverware with four sub-par rounds - two each on the Old and New courses - to secure his first 72-hole victory. A total of 11 under par represented fine scoring given the strength of the wind, the severity of the rain, and the clawing nature of the heather.

Moreover, in keeping with the tradition of the championship, the two courses had been stretched to their maximum lengths, with tees located further back than even those facing hardened professionals in the annual US Open qualifying event.

Burnage had shared the halfway lead with 22-year-old Jack Yule from Norfolk. Paired together and last out for both the third and fourth rounds, they duelled all day while the chasing pack kept their distance.

Once he took the lead early in the third round, Burnage was never headed, but his five-stroke advantage at the 48th hole had been reduced to just one by lunch. He stretched that ■ JAKE BURNAGE IS HOPING TO EARN A WALKER CUP CALL UP AFTER HIS SEOC TRIUMPH lead back to three as he walked onto

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[26] AUGUST 2017 | NEWS

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DOBSON RISES TO THE CHALLENGE AT FRILFORD

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uffolk tour pro Hugo Dobson is targeting a move up to the Challenge Tour at the end of the season, after winning the PGA Europro IFX Masters at Frilford Heath on Friday.

The 25 year old from Ipswich returned two excellent rounds of 66 en route to victory at the Oxfordshire venue. The £10,000 first prize moved him up to sixth in the rankings, with the top five players at the end of

the season earning automatic graduation to the Challenge Tour.

Dobson, who played most of his golf in Suffolk at Woodbridge and Fynn Valley and still plays out of Woodbridge, now lives in Kent with his wife.

His top-five dream in this year’s Europro is now very much alive. There are 14 events in total, nine have already been played, and he currently lies

STOKE PARK PROAM RAISES £160K FOR DIABETES CHARITY

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n event to support type 1 diabetes research has raised nearly £160,000 – thought to be the highest ever raised for charity from a single golf event.

The day, at Stoke Park Country Club in Buckinghamshire, eclipsed the £140,000 raised last year at the same golf club for

OLD FOLD IN GOOD NICK FOR PORTUGAL SPOT

just £1,000 behind fourthplaced player Neil Raymond.

“Getting on the Challenge

Tour was my main goal at the start of the season,” he said. “I played pretty well in Prague

the same charity, JDRF. This means the club has helped raise a staggering £300,000 for the charity in the last year.

It’s also higher than the £116,000 that was put together at Wentworth last year, in a charity golf day led by Gary Player, but is less than the £1 million Foxhills Club & Resort in Surrey hopes to raise this autumn for those affected by the Grenfell Tower disaster.

The pro-am tournament saw amateurs join pros for a day on the course, followed by a drinks reception.

Guests then enjoyed a dinner hosted by retired English rugby union player David Duckham with special guest Welsh rugby legend Sir Gareth Edwards. The evening finished with comedian Simon Evans entertaining the guests.

Each team of three golfers were joined by a PGA professional for the 18-hole better ball Stableford competition.

“Type 1 diabetes affects 400,000 people in the UK, 29,000 of whom are children. The condition develops when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas,” said a spokesman for JDRF. “JDRF supports families and individuals affected by type 1 diabetes and funds leading research to cure, treat and prevent the condition.

“Our mission is to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent and treat type 1 diabetes and its complications.

To accomplish this, JDRF has invested more than £1 billion since our inception. We collaborate with the most talented minds to develop and deliver a pipeline of innovative therapies to people living with type 1 diabetes. Our staff and volunteers around the globe are dedicated to campaigning for our vision of a world without type 1 diabetes."

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ld Fold Manor Golf Club PGA professional Jack Frances announced himself in style by sealing a place in the Lombard Trophy Final.

Frances only joined the Barnet-based club in February, but he teamed up with amateur and five handicapper Nick Boisover at Sandy Lodge Golf Club to

a few weeks ago and was in the top three for a stage at the EuroPro event in Ireland last week, before dropping to 17th.

But I knew I was playing well ahead at Frilford Heath. I just need one more good result, another win on the Europro and my Challenge card is virtually there.”

Dobson said that a long chat with his dad Tony, who is the professional at Stonham Barns, helped him set his goals for the season.

“I really struggled at the end of last year, and I sat down with my dad and we discussed

COTTESMORE LAUNCHES VPAR LIVE SCORING

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layers taking part in Cottesmore Golf and Country Club’s 42nd anniversary scramble enjoyed the benefit of VPAR’s mobile scoring system, which kept players informed on the scores on a hole-by-hole basis.

The day saw 23 teams of four play 18 holes on the Sussex venue’s Griffin course, with a shotgun start enabling golfers to keep track of where their team stood in the placings after each hole.

Cottesmore general manager Johnny Porter was delighted to be able to introduce the new scoring system at such a well-attended event. He said: “Mobile technology in general is constantly moving forward at pace, so at Cottesmore we were keen to be at the forefront and offer our members an even greater experience out on the golf course. The aftersales service from the VPAR team was excellent, ensuring we were fully trained to make full use of the live scoring facility. The anniversary scramble was a huge success on the day, bringing all sections of the club together. The live leaderboard really brought the competition to life for all teams, who were jostling for position out on the course.”

The VPAR live scoring option will be available for Cottesmore members to use in their competitions. Similarly, societies or corporate golf days will also be able to add the live scoring option to their packages.

book a place in the competition’s Portugal final.

The duo carded a nine-under-par round of 62 at the Northwood venue to win by one shot ahead of Dan Field and Duncan Woodcock of East Herts Golf Club. Now the Old Fold pairing will head for the £41,000, Coca-Cola and Pestana Resorts

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my objectives, looking at my swing and my putting,” Dobson said. “I worked really hard in the winter, and I believe that extra work gave me the mental edge to see out victory at Frilford.

“It’s tough being on Tour.

I know people think it is glamorous, but it is tough financially, and you spend hours in airports and hotels.

Winning at Frilford, though, has taken the pressure off. I can now relax a bit more and concentrate on my game rather than chasing pay cheques.”

supported, National Pro-Am grand final, which will be played at the Vila Sol resort in the Algarve between September 21-22.

Boisover, 52, has been a member at Old Fold Manor for 23 years. “I always felt Jack was capable of shooting a low score, it was just a case of how much I could contribute,” he said.

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NEWS | AUGUST 2017

CLACTON CELEBRATES 125TH ANNIVERSARY IN STYLE

ROMANO CAPTURES CARRIS TROPHY AT WEST SUSSEX

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lacton-on-Sea Golf Club was a hive of activity at the beginning of July as the Essex-based club celebrated its 125th anniversary with a week of competitions and parties to mark the major milestone.

The week started on July 1 with a match between Clacton’s junior team against Colchester for the last league match in this year’s Essex Golf Union Youth Shield, which the home side comfortably won 4-1 to progress to the quarter-finals. Later in the day, Clacton’s junior members played their July Stableford, which was won by Max Wright with 40 points.

Sunday saw 120 members compete for the £250 first prize in the Captain’s Prize. The winner of this Stableford competition was Simon Thomas with 46 points off a 13 handicap.

The following day saw Clacton’s senior captain John Kemp welcome 80 competitors to his captain’s day. The winner of the 18-hole Stableford competition was Terry Musselwhite with 43 points off a 26 handicap.

Lady captain Di Kedge took centre stage on July 4, as she hosted the 125th Anniversary day competition, which saw 48 women take part. The Lady Captain’s prize went Erica Beaumont with 40 Stableford points, with Cath Fage taking second with 36 points on countback from Angela Barratt.

On Wednesday, July 5, the club’s societies – The Pheasants, The Jury, The Mugs and The Swindle – held a mass competition day, while Thursday saw Past Captain Peter Cross welcome invited captains of clubs from all over Essex to the Clacton for a special friends’ day. Friday was set up day for the party on Saturday, which saw a huge marquee and open-air dance floor was laid out.

On Saturday morning, Clacton’s 18-hole course hosted 140 golfers for the Michael Goodwin Cup, which was won by past captain Tony Stevens with an impressive score of 46 points.

Later that evening, 500 members turned out for the dinner and live musical extravaganza, which saw tribute bands paying homage to Robbie Williams, Freddie Mercury and ABBA take to the full size stage. The evening’s entertainment finished with a spectacular fireworks display.

taly’s Andrea Romano (below right) won the Carris Trophy in a play-off at West Sussex Golf Club on a day that combined triumph, drama and disaster.

The triumph belonged to Romano, after he conjured up two magnificent up-and-downs. The first was on the 18th to tie with Jean Bekirian of France on eight under par; the second was to birdie the first play-off hole and win the English U18 boys’ open championship.

“I was really nervous,” said the 17 year old, as he relived his winning putt of around 20 feet. “I can’t believe this, it’s my first international championship, and I hope not the last. I think it will change something in my life after this.”

■ QUINTUPLE BOGEY ON THE 12TH ENDED ROBIN WILLIAMS' (ABOVE LEFT) HOPES OF WINNING THE CARRIS TROPHY

POMPEY PAIR ON TOP AT WALTON HEATH

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■ JAMES GREEN AND TIM HIGGS FROM PORTSMOUTH GOLF CENTRE

no idea his putt would be so important, as they did not know how close they were to the top of the leaderboard.

“When we came off at the 18th hole, we knew we’d made a good score but we weren’t sure it would be enough to win it,” said the 10 handicapper. “But it was and

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The drama was provided by the top quality golf of the three players in the final group. Romano, Bekirian and England’s Robin Williams (Peterborough Milton) made a flying start to the final round when they all eagled the first hole.

They followed up with plenty of birdies on the front nine, notably three in a row from Williams, which meant he was five under after five holes and sharing the championship lead with his playing partners on eight under.

The 15 year old was still right in contention as he stood on the 12th tee, where the disaster unfolded. Williams’ shot to the par three went right, into thick rough and heather close to the out of bounds fence. He took a drop, but the ball bounced into a ghastly lie and he could only hack at it, he took another drop, played out and made his way toward an eight, falling back to one under.

Williams’ misfortune left Romano and Bekirian to fight it out.

They were both eight under as they left the 12th green, but on the next the French player dropped one behind when his approach was bunkered. However, he came straight back, holing 15-foot putts for birdie on both the 14th and 16th to take a one-shot lead.

On the 18th, his drive caught a bunker, so the advantage swung to Romano, who was perfectly positioned in the fairway. He tugged his second left and short of the green, but his perfect short game touch secured the par, while Bekirian had to settle for a bogey.

The players set off down the par five first, both going wide and right of the green after two shots. Romano’s pitch finished 20ft away and, when he was first to putt, he grabbed his chance, holing out to pile on the pressure. Bekirian was unable to match him and the Italian’s teammates cheered loudly in celebration.

The best English player was Jack Cope (The Players Club, Gloucs), who finished fourth on two under.

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I still can’t take it all in, it was enough for me just to play at Walton Heath, but going to Portugal is the chance of a lifetime. I’ve been playing what I’d call solidly for about five years now and I’ve been a member at Portsmouth for four of them. I just love golf - I can’t get enough of it, sometimes I end up hating it too, but I always come back for more!”

It will be Green’s first appearance in the Lombard Trophy final and he is also delighted to have made it to Portugal.

“It all fell into place with Tim birdying the last hole, it was a really nice finish. I was keeping the score in my head, but I thought someone would get nine or 10 under par so we couldn’t get ahead of ourselves. When I saw the scoreboard, it was a pleasant surprise. Then we were having dinner and keeping a check on the scoreboard at the same time.”

RS

COUNTRY MEMBERSHIP

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tied for second spot.

The Pompey pairing now head for the £41,000, CocaCola and Pestana Resorts supported, National Pro-Am grand final which will be played at the Vila Sol resort in the Algarve between September 21-22.

Higgs, 31, revealed he had

C OU

ortsmouth amateur Tim Higgs is relishing the ‘chance of a lifetime’ after making it through to the Lombard Trophy Final.

Carpenter Higgs teamed up with Portsmouth Golf Course PGA Professional James Green to win the qualifying event at Walton Heath by just one shot in a closely fought competition.

It was Higgs who holed the vital putt at the 18th hole to as the pair carded an eight under par round of 64 at the Surrey course to book their place at the Portugal showpiece event. They edged out Mark Treleaven and Martin Eaton (Hayling Golf Club) and Steve Cowle and Ben Homewood (Worldham Golf Club) who

[27]

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[28] AUGUST 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

HEYTHROP HOSTS BATTLE OF THE BIG HITTERS

ENGLAND ENJOYS CLEAN SWEEP

E

ngland were crowned the Boys Home Internationals champions after winning all three matches against Ireland, Scotland and Wales at St Annes Old Links in Lancashire.

Team captain Derek Hughes’ side successfully defended the trophy which they won in Ireland last year, and England have now won the U18 team event 16 times since 1996. An English victory was sealed during the final morning foursomes’ match against Scotland when they took a 4-1 lead, while Wales, lost their foursomes against Ireland by the same margin.

T

he 2017 American Golf Long Drive Championship was held in the imposing grounds of Heythrop Park in Oxfordshire, but the grand surroundings didn’t affect the competitors, all of whom hit record-breaking drives to win their respective championships.

Against the stunning setting of Heythrop Hall, Dan Konyk (Under 45), Ilona Stubley (Ladies) and Charles Seo (Over 45) were all crowned champions with efforts that surpassed those recorded at the 2016 finals.

In the ladies' section, 33-year-old Glaswegian Stubley hit the longest drive ever recorded by a woman in an American Golf Championship, with a 338-yard monster during the seeding rounds.

She ultimately went on to win the ladies' title, after coming through the rounds to beat North London’s teenager Elle Gibson in the final with a drive of 301 yards. Gibson, at just 14 years of age, looked destined to win the title in the not

■ AMERICAN GOLF UK LONG DRIVE CHAMPIONS ILONA STUBLEY, DAN KONYK AND CHARLES SEO

too distant future judging by her impressive performance, which included a 326-yard drive in one of the earlier rounds.

The Senior Championship was won by Charles Seo, a 49-year-old restaurant owner from Surrey, who beat David Willmore in the final with a 393-yard drive.

Seo, who was a beaten finalist in 2015 and reached the semis last year, was delighted to finally bag the win, and also gain entry into next month’s World

Long Drive Championship in America.

The main event, the men’s under 45 category, was won 2015 champion Dan Konyk, who took down last year’s winner, Lucas Dornan, in the quarter finals, before beating Germany’s Timo Petrasch in the final with a 401-yard effort. In addition to the title, Konyk also won qualification through to the World Long Drive Championship.

only French swinger. I never expected him to accept our final invite, but here he was sailing all night to get to us.”

Rockett added: “If only I’d knew then what I know now – that Keith was to become our most important Swinger, a symbol of everything we stand for. Instead, at the time, having only been running Swingers for less than a year, I pondered why someone I didn’t know would travel across the channel carrying cheese for me. But this was Keith all over. He always put everyone else

first, whether they were best friends, or new Swingers he had just met.”

In that final, which in those days was an individual affair, Keith won a pair of tickets to a destination of his choice and this cemented his love affair with Swingers and indeed Virgin Atlantic. He returned to play in the Season 3 Final at Goodwood, where he took great delight in meeting Sir Richard Branson’s mum Eve, a guest on the day. He then played in the Season 5, Season 6 and Season 9 team finals as well.

Each time his larger-than-life character lit up the final with his colourful clothing and pink driver.

Despite not making any more finals, Keith’s status within Swingers grew and grew. His love of travel and Virgin Atlantic led him to Gold member status, and when the now annual society days begun, he attended every single one. As his health deteriorated, which meant his golf inevitably suffered, he remained the Swinger that everyone gravitated to.

“We’d often meet up with him the night prior and share a drink as the other regular Swingers used to,” added Rockett. “Next morning he’d be there bright and early, showing off his new pink golf shoes or his pink driver, and ready to board his buggy for another Swingers’ day.

VIRGIN ATLANTIC BIDS FAREWELL TO 'MR SWINGER'

V

irgin Atlantic Flying Club Swingers will be celebrating the life of their most loyal member this autumn, after Keith Eustace-Pedlar sadly passed away earlier this year. A memorial day is being held in his honour at Manor House Golf Club in Castle Combe, Wiltshire – a venue which was close to his heart.

Tournament Director Paul Rockett said: “Manor House Golf Club was where we first met Keith, and it was something I will never forget.

We were setting up for the Season 2 Final when there was a knock on our office door. In walked this chap with a big beard, a jolly smile, and a strong West Country accent, with a delivery of cheese for me. ‘Hi Paul, it’s Keith. I’ve just sailed over on the ferry from France and driven straight here. I’ve brought some cheese for you.’ It took me a while to register, but I soon realised that this was Keith Eustace-Pedlar, the chap who had been storming up the Fun League playing golf in France. He’d got my attention on the leaderboards, as he was our

CORHAMPTON GOLF CLUB

Keith loved his bright clothes, which matched his sparkling personality.

“Despite his struggles to compete on these days, every single day we would get requests to be paired with him – this was the personality that he was. We even got requests from new Swingers who had never met him, but had heard of his legendary status. This led to him being nicknamed ‘Mr Swinger’ – he was the figure head, and he knew it. But it never changed his ways. While we would often get moans and gripes about handicaps, unfair rules and the rest, Keith never once complained. He saw Swingers for what it was meant to be – a fun competition that brought people together and made friendships, and, my word, what friendships he made.”

So on Tuesday, October 3rd, Swingers from around the globe will converge on the quaint village of Castle Combe, dressed in Keith’s favourite colour pink, to celebrate a very special golfer and true Swinger. It’s sure to be a very special day.

Further details can be found at www. flyingclubgolfleague.com/societydays_2017_ manor_house.asp

Society golf all year round at

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www.littlehamptongolf.co.uk

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

NEWS | AUGUST 2017 [29]

TYRRELL HATTON

After enduring a flat spot over the summer, Tyrrell is hoping that some intensive coaching with his dad will help restart his season

THERE’S NO DENYING that it’s been a difficult summer for me. Coming off the back of what felt like a breakthrough season in 2016, with my first tour win, and a significant rise up the rankings, things started promisingly enough at the beginning of the year, but I’ve just not performed to the level that I know that I’m capable of over the last few months.

It started with a missed cut at the Masters, and since then I’ve only made one cut – at Wentworth – and missed the cut at the US Open, the French, Irish and Scottish Opens, and, of course, The Open itself.

I didn’t arrive at Royal Birkdale with a heap of confidence, but I was certainly looking to play well and I felt in good shape.

Unfortunately, I got off to a poor start and was five over after the first 11 holes, and shot 75. I shot 76 the following day and missed the cut by six shots. Not how I wanted to play my home Major.

After the Open, I spent a few days working on my game with my dad, Jeff, at Stoke Park, and we got back to basics a little bit and straightened out a few swing issues that I’ve been having. Whenever I need a little bit of a reset, it’s good to know that I can go and see my dad, and he can immediately see if any bad habits have crept back into my game.

My next event, the WGC Bridgestone Invitational, didn’t have a cut to miss, which was a bonus. I wasn’t overly delighted with finishing tied 36th, but at least it gave me a chance to get four consecutive competitive rounds under my belt, and shooting two 69s over the weekend felt like a turnaround of sorts.

Unlike previous events this summer, where I’ve been struggling a bit off the tee, I drove the ball pretty well at Firestone – I was ranked fifth best off the tee – and hit some solid irons shots into greens, but the putts just weren’t

IT WASN'T EASY TO SWITCH FROM THE SLOW GREENS ON THE LINKS COURSES IN THE UK TO THE LIGHTNING-QUICK PUTTING SURFACES IN THE US dropping. It’s very frustrating, and there’s simply no way to force it, but it does wear you down when you just can’t seem to buy a putt.

I reckon I missed at least four really makeable ones in each round at the Bridgestone.

Sixteen shots is a lot of ground to give away.

I’ve experimented with a few different Ping putters this month in practice, but I’m still using a version of the Ping Vault Oslo model that I won the Dunhill Links with last year, although it’s not the exact same putter – that one suffered a little damage, shall we ■ TYRRELL HAS SPENT TIME WORKING ON HIS GAME AT THE DRIVING RANGE AT STOKE PARK

say, following my exit from the WGC Dell Matchplay back in March. I had it re-shafted, but I kind of fell out of love with it after that moment, so I’m currently using a different one, but the same shape. I like a mallet putter, it suits my eye and my putting stroke. I’m not a million miles away, so one week it may just click back in.

It’s certainly not been easy to switch from the slow greens we putted on back on the links courses in the UK to the lightning quick putting surfaces in the US, but it’s the same for all the players that play both tours and it’s just something that you have to adjust to.

Staying on the equipment front, I’ve also had the chance to hit Ping’s new G400 driver. I spent a little time working with the guys at Ping dialling in my ball flight – some of you may have seen some of the testing videos that were on Ping’s website – and it’s definitely a club that will make it into the bag later in the season, as I was really happy with the numbers I was getting with it, and I liked its overall look and feel. I’m happy with my current Ping G driver, but it’s just a case of finding the right time to make the switch.

Talking of changes on the bag, I, like a lot of people, was surprised to see Rory McIlroy part company with his caddy, JP Fitzgerald.

They’ve obviously had a lot of success over the last nine or ten years, so it’s been a profitable partnership, but, like all good things, they sometimes run their natural course. It’s not my business to comment on the whys and wherefores of Rory’s situation, but sometimes you just need to change things up a bit to keep things fresh. That might not always be your caddy – there are lots of factors to consider – but it’s one

part of the equation, albeit a very important one. I like to think my caddy Chris and I are good friends, but at the end of the day it’s a working relationship, and one that has to work for both sides.

After the PGA, I’m taking three weeks off – during which time I’ll be back at Harleyford Golf Club to host the Tyrrell Hatton Junior Masters on September 2. It’s the first edition of what will hopefully become an annual tournament. I’m really pleased with the response we’ve had for it, and I’m looking forward to seeing the talent we’ve got coming through the ranks, and, of course, handing out the prizes at the end of the day.

After that, I’m playing the European Masters in Switzerland, which is one of my favourite tournaments of the year, then I’m back in England two weeks later for the British Masters up at Close House, then the Italian Open, and then it’s back to my old stomping grounds at the Dunhill Links. I’m hoping to have rediscovered my form long before I get back to St Andrews, but there can’t be any harm in returning to a place where I’ve had success before. Who knows, maybe lightning will strike twice!

YOU CAN FOLLOW TYRRELL ON TWITTER @TYRRELLHATTON PARTNERS

[30] AUGUST 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

What’s selling well in the pro shop? We’re selling a serious amount of golf balls this year. Are people getting worse? Is the course getting tougher?

No idea, nut we are shifting a lot of balls!

If you could change one rule in golf what would it be? Playing a ball from a divot. This should be a free drop when on the fairway.

Matt Tyler lifts the lid on life on and off the course as Director of Golf at Sweetwoods Park Golf Club in Kent How long have you been a PGA pro?

I turned pro in the summer of 2007, when I was 18. I worked as an assistant at Lindfield Golf Club with the Golf College for three years, and when I became fully qualified in 2010, I moved to Sweetwoods Park to start my professional career.

What’s the Best Swing Tip You’ve Ever Received?

What is your day-to-day role?

I manage all things golf-related. One day I may be coaching from nine to five, the next I am liaising with the management team to structure the club diary for the following year, and then the next I am in the pro shop merchandising, ordering stock, and performing custom-fitting sessions. I tend to help members and visitors on anything they need when it comes to playing the game.

When the ball is in the air, hit up on it.

When the ball is on the ground, hit down on it.

golf course that offers great yearround playing conditions. We offer exceptional value for money and focus on making sure customers leave with a smile on their face.

What is the club doing to attract junior and female golfers?

We have run taster sessions, experience days, and offer free junior memberships to any of our sevenday members, while standalone junior membership costs just £10 a month. We have attracted a lot of new members over the last 18 months, and seen a rise in both the junior and the ladies’ sections.

What do you think would stimulate more people to take up golf?

To knock its stuffy image on the head.

It’s the 21st century, and still I feel that the sport has been playing it too safe in terms of moving with the times, as it doesn’t want to offend its traditional following. Clothing brands like Nike and Under Armour are trying to push golf forward, but dress codes at some clubs are almost going backwards, not forwards. How can we attract the young people to the game when

What’s the best thing about your job?

I’ve always enjoyed coaching. I love to watch golfers achieve their initial goals, and then see how far they can go in an attempt to reach their full potential.

Tell us something about the facilities…

We don’t have a fancy gym or luxury country club facilities, but we pride ourselves on offering a picturesque, well-presented 18-hole parkland

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What’s the most common swing fault you have to correct?

Swing sequence and dynamic balance. Trying to get golfers to put their swing components in the right order, whilst staying balanced through the motion, to help achieve a more efficient impact position.

Who inspired you to take up golf?

My brother got me into it. He was seven at the time and was miles better then I was. I couldn’t be having that!

What’s your favourite course in the UK? I loved playing up at Archerfield Links in Scotland last year. It’s a great set up and an exceptional experience.

Which three people would be in your dream fourball? Jonny Wilkinson, Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods.

What would you have done if you hadn’t have been a pro?

I was a keen rugby player, and would have pursed that, but I don’t think I had the skill set to make it in the top flight in the modern game. My love for coaching and seeing people succeed was always going to lead me into sport and teaching in some shape or form.

Pay Sweetwoods Park a visit this summer and take part in one of their Experience Days. Offering 18 holes, meal, two month advance booking and a host of other benefits, from just £45pp. Visit sweetwoodspark.com for more information.

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How much time do you spend teaching?

In the winter I can be coaching up to 30 hours a week with our indoor facility, where I’ll be here at 9pm. In the summer, when my role within the club becomes more golf-based, I reduce my coaching hours to ensure that I am on top of everything else.

Golfers should work hard on their game during the winter, so that they can get out on the course in the summer and play better golf.

Be Driven...

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we force them to wear clothing that doesn’t reflect their personality and then insist on charging them a fortune to wear it?

Who is your golfing hero and why?

Tiger Woods was my hero growing up. He changed the game on and off the course. I would love to see him playing good golf again, but I can’t see it happening with his history of back and knee problems.

Summer golf days for 12 people or more, starting from just £18.50 for seniors (senior 64+) and £26.50 per person (adults)

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GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

COMPETITION | AUGUST 2017

[31]

A GOLFING BREAK TO

WILTSHIRE

SLEIGHT VALLEY DRIVING RANGE

Golf News has teamed up with VisitWiltshire to offer a two-day, one-night break for two to experience bags of history, fantastic views, and a game for all abilities.

So escape the everyday, press pause, and stay and play in Wiltshire.

WILTSHIRE IS THE PERFECT DESTINATION for keen golfers, with its spectacular countryside, ancient woodlands, and some of the best and most established courses in the country.

VisitWiltshire’s selection of golfing highlights includes Upavon Golf Club, which enjoys stunning vistas across Salisbury Plain and the Vale of Pewsey. With 18 holes, and stretching to 6,427 yards from the men's tees, it provides a good challenge whatever your handicap. The signature hole is the par-3 18th, which requires a drive across the valley to an elevated green.

UPAVON GOLF CLUB

If you’re looking for quality and quantity, then Cumberwell Park Golf Club, near Bradford on Avon, is the place to go.

Wiltshire’s only 45-hole venue is set within 700 acres of beautiful parkland, with five of the 9-hole courses providing a different challenge. The natural contours of the landscape have shaped the design of the course as it encompasses a wonderful blend of rolling countryside, lakes, streams, natural copse and woodland.

PLAN YOUR WILTSHIRE GOLF BREAK

For out and out quality, you’d be hard pushed to beat Bowood Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, near Calne, which is known for its top class facilities. Situated on Bowood’s beautiful estate, the 18-hole championship course blends perfectly with the woodland and undulating countryside, giving a genuine feeling of getting away from it all, with extraordinary views of rolling parkland.

• An overnight stay at

But if it’s practice you’re after, then there are few better venues for working on your game than Sleight Valley Driving Range, located on the outskirts of Devizes. It offers a 12-bay floodlit covered range, with a 300-yard outfield where players can practice their swings, whatever the weather. Open to all, from first time players to experienced golfers of any age or ability, it's also great for families.

Users have the choice of conventional or automated tees, with high-quality mats and full-distance golf balls. PGA Professionals are available to book for tuition too.

When planning your stay-and-play visit to Wiltshire don’t forget to check out www.visitwiltshire.co.uk for

BOWOOD HOTEL, SPA & GOLF RESORT

additional information on what’s on, things to do, and places to stay.

www.visitwiltshire.co.uk THE PRIZE Bowood Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, including dinner,

TO ENTER To enter, simply answer the question below and email it to: info@golfnews.co.uk with ‘Wiltshire Golf Competition’ in the subject line, including your name, address and contact telephone, and details of where you picked up your copy of Golf News.

The closing date for entries is September 15. The editor’s decision is final and no alternative prize is offered. The prize must be taken before 31 March 2018.

Dates are subject to availability.

QUESTION:

bed and breakfast for one night, valid for two people, based on two adults sharing.

• A complimentary round of golf for two at

What is the name of Wiltshire’s only 45-hole golf course? a) Bowood Golf and Country Club b) Cumberwell Park Golf Course c) Sleight Valley Driving Range

Bowood.

• A complimentary round of golf for two people at Cumberwell Park.

• A complimentary round of golf for two people at Upavon Golf Club.

• Sleight Valley Golf Driving Range voucher valid for two 100-ball tokens, club hire (if required), two drinks and two cakes.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: • The prize cannot be applied to existing bookings.

• The prize cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer • Bowood Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort prize includes one night stay bed and breakfast based on two adults sharing. Dinner includes 3-course meal (food only) in the Shelburne Restaurant or Clubhouse Brasserie; Valid for two adults only but additional guests or extra nights can be arranged for additional costs.

Valid Sunday to Friday subject to availability.

• Cumberwell Park golf voucher is valid for two people

Monday– Friday only.

• Sleight Valley Golf Driving Range voucher cannot be exchanged for monetary value; valid for 1 year; cannot be held responsible if a voucher is lost, stolen, destroyed or used without permission.

• The prize cannot be won by any past or present employees or anyone connected to the competition.

• Additional terms and conditions will apply please see www.visitwiltshire.co.uk/information/terms-and-conditions

Launceston Golf Club Spectacular views over the Devon and Cornwall border

Make yourself at home in the heart of Gleneagles Rentals at Glenmor The Gleneagles experience is one of a kind – you can now enjoy it from the comfort of a Glenmor luxury holiday home, located in the heart of Gleneagles.

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Find out more

GREAT DEALS FOR GREEN FEES AND SOCIETIES Call us on 01566 773442 or e-mail secretary@launcestongolfclub.co.uk

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Visit gleneagles.com Call 01764 694 321 Email own@gleneagles.com The Timeshare, Holiday Products, Resale and Exchange Contracts Regulation 2010 requires Gleneagles to provide you with certain key information in relation to the proposed seasonal ownership contract. A standard information form which contains this key information in relation to that contract may be obtained by contacted us via the above methods.

[32] AUGUST 2017 | FEATURE

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

LEVY ON THE UP

Frenchman Alex Levy talks about his success in China, GolfSixes, the 2018 Ryder Cup, and his love of Olympique Marseille

A

fter the DP World Tour Championship last year, I said to myself, now is the time to challenge myself and look at making some changes to my game. I had been with my coach for five or six years, and we had some great times and he helped build me from amateur to a winner on Tour, but it was the right time to change things up with a new coach and culture. And that’s how Pete Cowan came along. He has worked with some of the top players in the world, but his experience and knowledge of the short game drew me in. I think if you want to be a great player, you have to have a great short game.

■ LEVY IS HOPING TO MAKE THE EUROPEAN TEAM FOR THE 2018 RYDER CUP, WHICH IS BEING PLAYED ON HIS HOME SOIL

To win the Volvo China Open again last month was a dream come true. I won my first European Tour title at Shenzen in 2014, so it will always be a tournament that holds a special place in my heart. I can still remember the holes I scored well on for my course record 62. The course really suits my game - it is open from the tee and has

soft greens, so it’s more like target golf, which for me is how I like to play. The two wins couldn’t have been more different. I came from seven shots back to get into a play-off against Dylan Frittelli this time, and then chipped in from off the green at the first extra hole to win the title.

The champagne flowed, shall we say.

As a Frenchman, it’s hard not to think about next year’s Ryder Cup. It’s a goal of mine to play in Paris. I will be working hard to make the team, and it would be the proudest moment of my career to be there.

ALEX LEVY’S FACTFILE AGE: 27 BORN: LOS ANGELES, CAIIFORNIA LIVES: BANDOL, FRANCE WORLD RANKING: 69 RACE TO DUBAI: 14 EUROPEAN TOUR APPEARANCES: 117 WINS: 4 (2017 CHINA OPEN, 2016 EUROPEAN OPEN, 2014 PORTUGAL MASTERS, 2014 CHINA OPEN)

Earlier this year we played golf in the snow in Val d’Isere and it was pretty amazing. I’m not the biggest fan of skiing, I prefer the sea and the beach, but I was invited by BMW to come along to their World Golf Cup event, and we spent the day hitting balls in the snow with Raphaёl Jacquelin, Nicolas Colsaerts, Grégory Havret and Romain Langasque. It was fun, and thankfully we all managed to hit some decent shots.

TOP 10S: 14

The Hero Challenge at last year’s British Masters was one of the best things I have ever done outside of a golf tournament. It was so much fun – and I managed to win, so it was a win-win. It was certainly one of the best ideas from the Tour. I was lucky enough to be invited back to do it again at the Scottish Open at Dundonald last month. We also had big crowds, and it was great fun. New formats are definitely the way forward to attract new fans. I also took part in the new GolfSixes tournament in May, which was also a great experience.

I played with my good friend Greg Bourdy, and we got through to the quarter-final. I loved the whole event and would definitely liked to be involved again.

DRIVER

I was playing in Morocco during the Masters, and I started to watch the last round around the tenth hole. It was an incredible battle, Sergio and Justin are both really nice guys, and I am happy for Sergio that he has finally won a Major – he deserved it. But at the same time, I was a little sad for Justin, because he has finished second a couple of times. It was a great fight in the end, and you have to respect both players for how they played on the day.

BEST MAJOR FINISH: 27TH(2015 US OPEN) PRIZE MONEY: €5.452M DRIVING DISTANCE: 292 YARDS (143RD) PUTTS PER ROUND: 29.5 (93RD) STROKE AVERAGE: 70.71 (35TH)

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I have always followed Olympique de Marseille FC. I was born in California, but when I came back with my family to Marseille, you could see the stadium from where we lived, so it was natural that I would support them and go to their games. When I won the Volvo China Open in 2014 and finished my season, I did a kick-off in front of 65,000 people and it was a great memory for me. When I come back home, I always try to see some games. I have seen two matches this year, when we played against Paris and Monaco, both big games. But unfortunately we lost, but I hope we will keep improving.

L ADIES GOLF SPECI A L SUPPLEMENT

ANNABEL DIMMOCK: WENTWORTH'S RISING STAR LAURA DAVIES INTERVIEW: "AGE IS JUST A NUMBER" FASHION ADVICE FROM THE BEST IN THE BUSINESS QUEEN OF CLUBS: Q&A WITH LYNX GOLF CEO STEPHANIE ZINSER

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[36] AUGUST 2017 | LADIES NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

STIRK HOSTS WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP SUMMIT IN ST ANDREWS T he R&A hosted a women's leadership summit week ahead of the Ricoh Women's British Open at Kingsbarns.

A group of 21 women from the worlds of business, finance, sport, education and the media met in the Royal and Ancient clubhouse of St Andrews. The summit, conceived and organised by Sky Sports golf presenter, and Golf News' columnist, Sarah Stirk, was designed as a pathfinder for a larger event next year.

Keynote sessions on the art of confidence and the perception of ambition, the rise of female representation in the boardroom, and what sport must learn from business for a sustainable future were debated to help shape the agenda for the summit planned for2018.

Session leaders included Caroline Hyde, Bloomberg Technology news anchor; Dr Bridget McConnell , Glasgow Life chief executive, and Jane Booth, head of research at Women Ahead.

Stirk said: "The eve of the Ricoh Women's British Open proved the perfect stage for our inaugural Women's Leadership Summit, and the R&A and Ricoh were fantastic hosts. Our pathfinder group of 20 women from business, finance, media and the arts was clearly inspired by their surroundings and we have the makings of an agenda for a full·scale summit event next year at Royal Lytham & St Annes.

"Special thanks to the R&A chief executive Martin Slumbers, who gave us his office for the day and who took part In a Q&A that revealed the progress being made in plans to encourage more women and girls into golf."

■ THE FIRST WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP SUMMIT WAS HELD IN THE ROYAL & ANCIENT'S CLUBHOUSE IN ST ANDREWS

WOAD WINS ‘MOST IMROVED’ GIRLS' TITLE

S

urrey’s Lottie Woad played nine shots under her handicap to win the Abraham Trophy and the title of England’s most improved girl golfer.

The 13 year old went round Blackmoor Golf Club in a gross score of level par 72, net 63, to win by five shots.

The runner up on net 68 was Lili Rose Hunt of Gaudet Luce, Worcestershire, while Hannah Dymott (Meon Valley, Hampshire) scored net 70 and took third place on countback from four other players.

SMITH SEALS ONE DAY SERIES WIN AT SOUTH WILTS

C

ambridge professional Sarah Smith recorded her first WPGA One Day Series victory of the season after fine-tuning her game 24 hours before the event at Salisbury & South Wilts Golf Club.

Smith carded a level-par round of 73 in the fifth round of the series to win by just one shot ahead of Catherine Panton-Lewis (The Berkshire) and Katie Rule (Mullion) who tied for second spot.

The Saffron Walden player had an impressive front nine, which included four birdies, but despite collecting three bogeys on the back nine, she held on to win. She admitted that the key to her success was some

crucial work on her technique with Saffron Walden head pro Rob McNicholas.

“It was hard work, but good in the end. I had a swing check with my boss in the nets on the Wednesday before the event. In the previous round, I played all right, but more like average golf than better golf,” Smith explained “But I coach a lot and don’t get as much time to practise, so I needed something to get round - and what I did worked! I played 100 per cent better this time. It was a bit of fine tuning just to keep me going. What I did with my swing definitely helped.

“I love playing, and I’ve done all the One Day Series events this year. I was happy to stay level. I’ll play the final round at South Herts Golf Club at the end of August. This win has put me top of the Access Order of Merit so I want to hold on to that.”

■ SARAH SMITH

They were among 22 girls who qualified for the national final on the basis of handicap reduction.

Woad, from Farnham Golf Club, only started playing golf three years ago after being encouraged by her father.

She has played for the Surrey girls and won the handicap prize at the Surrey schools’ championship for the last two years. Her winning Abraham Trophy score was her best ever, by three shots, and will bring about a healthy cut in her handicap.

THURSDAY IS LADIES’ DAYS AT CHIPSTEAD

W

omen golfers looking to get back into the swing of things are invited down to Chipstead Golf Club in Surrey, where every Thursday is ladies' day.

The club is offering 10-round packages on its stunning 18-hole parkland course for just £100, which equates to just £10 per round. The Thursday Club is open to all women golfers, with no handicap requirements.

Gary Torbett, Chipstead’s director of golf, said: “Our aim at Chipstead has always been to look outside the box when it comes to promoting our club.

We are in a very competitive industry and we must continue to find new ways of bringing new clients through our doors.

"I believe that Chipstead is a perfect venue for women golfers both established and new, and we want to give them the chance to experience what our club has to offer, and hopefully this unique opportunity will provide that platform.”

To find out more about how to join the Thursday Club, call 01737 554939 or email directorofgolf@chipsteadgolf. co.uk.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

LADIES NEWS | AUGUST 2017

[37]

ONE-DAY WONDER HALL IN CHARGE AT CHESTFIELD

E

uropean Tour player Lydia Hall continued her dominance of the WPGA One Day Series when claiming a one-stroke win at Chestfield Golf Club in Kent.

The Welsh player collected her fourth win in the competition this year with a one-under-par 70, although she felt her margin of victory could have been even greater.

“I felt my final score could’ve been much better – I was four under par after the 10th hole and playing quite solidly,” she said. “So I came off a little bit disappointed after making some poor shots over seven holes. I wanted to end well and finish under par – and was able to get a birdie at the 18th to win it.

Overall, though, it didn’t go the way I wanted, considering the

way I started, but I’m really pleased to have won.”

Hall finished one shot ahead of Catherine Panton-Lewis (The Berkshire) and Sian Evans, from Kent’s Kingshill Golf Club.

HUMPHREYS WINS ENGLISH WOMEN'S AMATEUR

ST YLISH WOME N’S GOLF CLOT HING

ssex teenager Lily May Humphreys has become one of the youngest winners of the English women’s amateur championship.

The fifteen year old from Stoke

by Nayland secured a one-shot win over Hampshire’s Emma Allen and Lincolnshire’s India Cleburne at Lindrick, Yorkshire – after a gutsy fightback over the closing holes.

Humphrey led the championship until midway through the final round. She had set out on the last 18 with a two-shot lead, but after dropping four shots on the way to the turn, she found herself a stroke behind Allen. However, she played the back nine in two under par to Allen’s one over to score a narrow victory.

It’s the latest and biggest in a long string of titles amassed by the teenager – and a very special one.

“It’s a different feeling to all my other wins, and it definitely feels better, because I knew I had fallen behind and I had to make myself get ahead again. I had to fight for it at the end, and it really encouraged me to think I could get back,” said Humphreys.

She had special thanks for her caddy, Charlie Daughtrey. They played together in the Sunningdale Foursomes and often caddy for each other, so his knowledge of Humphreys’ game was invaluable, particularly on the greens.

Her early problems in the round stemmed from missed putts and she remarked: “Charlie helped me read the putts and encouraged me when I hit a good shot and I just got it back together. I started hitting good shots and if I missed a putt it was for a birdie, which felt better.”

She played the back nine in bogey-free two-under, her best performance of the week, and it proved the title clincher. She birdied the par-five 14th, hitting the green with a four-iron and then taking a steady two putts. “That got some adrenalin going,” she said. She followed up immediately with another birdie on the 15th, where a long drive left her just over 60 yards to the hole. Her pitch finished 12ft away and she rolled in the putt.

Ahead of her, Allen bogeyed the 18th, and when Humphreys finished with three straight pars the title was hers.

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[38] AUGUST 2017 | STEPHANIE ZINSER

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

THE LYNX EFFECT

Nick Bayly talks to Lynx Golf chief executive Stephanie Zinser about the growth of one of the few British-owned golf equipment brands, and the challenges facing the game at professional and amateur levels

W

hat inspired you to get involved with the Lynx brand?

My husband, Steve Elford, was approached about the possibility of us having the brand in 2010. It was an exciting project for him, but he knew he couldn’t do it alone, and suggested it would be great if we did it together. I love nothing more than a challenge, and with our complementary skill bases, we thought it would be an exciting project to undertake. It hasn’t disappointed. Lynx is still one of the five most famous golf brands of all time, and we are passionate about it continuing to be so.

What makes Lynx different from other golf brands?

We haven’t set out to be different for the sake of it, but we aim to take a fresh approach, and to do everything to the best of our ability, whether it’s creating high-performance clubs, having good-looking designs and colours in our equipment, or offering superior customer service and rapid custom-fit. We like to take something ordinary and ask ourselves ‘how can we change this and really make a positive difference to the customer’?

How many golf clubs currently stock Lynx equipment?

Since taking over the brand in 2014, we are now in nearly 700 stockists. We have grown every year, and our growth is now on an upwards trajectory which, considering the market we are in, is no mean achievement. As a company we believe that pros are the most important people in a golf club, and we passionately want to work with them.

Lynx has always had strong brands such as Black Cat and Parallax, but how have the Tigress and Crystal ranges been performing, and what are the specific demands of designing for women golfers?

Tigress has always been one of the strongest sub-brands in women’s golf equipment, and it continues to be extremely popular. The demands of making a good ladies’ club are no different from the men’s in our view – the head weights have to suit the physical characteristics of the typical player they’re designed for, so do the shafts, grips – all the elements – but we also focus on making our ladies’ clubs look lovely - because why shouldn’t a great performing golf club look gorgeous too?

How important is custom fitting to Lynx?

We believe custom fitting is vital if club pros are going to attract back so much of the business that has drifted off to golf stores or the internet. Custom fitting makes a huge difference to a player, as their clubs will be specifically fitted to them, their swing speed and their action, and if you play with a club that feels as natural as an extension of your arm, you will perform better than with something bought off the shelf.

How can we encourage more women to take up the game?

Women have historically been put off golf because of the sexist nature of many clubs. I am as much against a male-only facility as I would be a female-only facility, because sexism goes both ways. Golf needs to be inclusive not exclusive. Time can be a factor for younger women with child-care issues, and I have long advocated that the chance to play six rather than nine holes would be a smart move. An 18-hole course arranged in a clover-leaf pattern with six holes in each ‘leaf’, coupled with a childcare facility, could revolutionise the way that women view the game.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Attention all Lady Golfers!!!

Chipstead Golf Club are offering you the

The variety of things I get to do, and the people I work with.

Our company is like a family to me, and I spend a lot of time making sure that our team is happy and doing well. Largely, I look after the financing of the business, while Steve looks after the R&D and product side. The key mantra for me is to treat the people you work with the way you’d like to be treated yourself.

What advice would you give to other women considering a career in the golf industry?

I’d say ‘Do It’. Jump in with both feet – life is not a practice round. There are a few of us here already, and we’re great fun to work with. Come on in, the water’s lovely!

To see the latest range of Lynx golf products, including the all-new Tigress range, visit www.lyngolf.co.uk.

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ONLY £100.00 You won’t find a more enjoyable place to play your golf For more information on our THURSDAY CLUB offer Call Gary or Nicholas on 01737-554939 or Email: directorofgolf@chipsteadgolf.co.uk

Join Chobham by 30th September 2017 and receive £100 on your Levy Card.

ACROSS ALL MEMBERSHIP CATERGORIES, YOU WILL ENJOY:

Full Social Club membership giving access to the Clubhouse 7 days a week A levy card granting 15% discount on food and drinks Gain a CONGU Handicap & access to competitions, including social golfing events Reciprocal tee times at eight other Golf Clubs... ...and many more fantastic benefits for you and your family!

Tel: 01276 855584 Email: info@chobhamgolfclub.co.uk Web: www.chobhamgolfclub.co.uk

To find out more about this fantastic offer get in touch today!

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

COMPETITION | AUGUST 2017 [39]

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TRENDYGOLF.COM is the number one e-tailer for high-end golf fashion, and one lucky winner will enjoy a £250 shopping spree across the latest women’s collections by leading brands, including J.Lindeberg, Nike, Puma and many more.

By bringing together a carefully selected line-up of designer brands in one store, WWW.TRENDYGOLF.COM is the personal tailor that allows you to look your best on the course.

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TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning this prize, all you need to do is answer the question below correctly, and email your answer to: info@golfnews.co.uk, with ‘TRENDYGOLF COMPETITION’ in the subject line, and including your name, address and contact telephone number, and details of where you picked up your copy of Golf News.

The closing date for entries is September 30, 2017. The prize is non-transferable and no cash alternative is available. Entrants must be aged 18 years or over.

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[40] AUGUST 2017 | LADIES PRO SHOP

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CALLAWAY STEELHEAD XR COMBO SET £749, CALLAWAYGOLF.COM The Steelhead XR Combo Sets feature Callaway’s 360-degree hyper speed Face Cup technology, which promises more distance with greater forgiveness. A bar of steel-infused soft urethane positioned behind the lower portion of the face absorbs unwanted vibration for greater feel, while the urethane adds weight, which lowers the head’s centre of gravity progressively for faster ball speeds on low hits and higher launch throughout the set. The hybrids feature a deeper body and longer blade length to increase the hitting area, making them easier to hit from a wide variety of lies.

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[41]

[42] AUGUST 2017 | INTERVIEW

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

PLAYING THE

LONG GAME

Dame Laura Davies, the down-to-earth legend of the women’s game, reveals the secret to her successful 35-year career and why she fears for the longevity of the current crop of stars

Y

our passport says you’re 53, but how old do you feel?

I couldn’t put a figure on it, but mentally I still feel the same as I did when I first started out. I mean, I have the odd niggle here and there, but the competitiveness and the enthusiasm is still there. In my mind I'm good enough. I'm sure a lot of people don't think I am, but as long as you still believe in yourself, you can win.

Although I’ve not won since 2010, I’ve not given up on the idea of winning another tournament, or even another major.

Would you like to be 20, and do it all over again?

Absolutely, and I'd do it exactly the same way I did it 35 years ago. I understand the pressure on these girls to get out here and practise 14 hours a day, but the longevity is never going to be there. I think that's why Juli Inkster, Lorie Kane and a few of the older players like me have lasted as long as we have. I think you can still do it the old way if you want to be successful; you don’t need to be pounding balls all day.

How pleased were you to be able to keep your run of 37 consecutive appearances going at the British Open – even if you had to come through qualifying?

My last resort was Monday qualifying. I didn’t enjoy it much, but that was all that was left for me. I felt a bit embarrassed, really, that my performances over the past year weren’t good enough to get me in without having to go through that. I’ve always prided myself on being good enough to be in the big championships. But time goes on, and you are not as good as you used to be, I suppose. I remember the first time I missed the US Open after something like 25 years. It is a horrible feeling, because you know how good you used to be, and you wouldn’t even think about not being exempt for tournaments. I’m still striking the ball well as I ever did, but I just need to hole a few more putts.

As a past winner of the Women's British Open, it seems odd that you aren’t given an automatic place in the field, as the men are.

The one thing that really does annoy me is that past champions of the men’s Open Championship always get back in, but not for the Women’s Open. I think it’s ridiculous, but I don’t set the criteria. You can only beat what’s in front of you in your era. It is one of the finest victories I’ve ever had, winning round Birkdale at 16 under by five shots. It was one of the best weeks of my career, and only in my second year as a pro. Although it the Women’s British Open wasn’t given major status until 2001, it was still a major in my mind.

What's the most practice you do during a tournament week?

When I'm playing badly, you'll see me on the driving range. So the less you see me on the driving range, the better you know I'm playing. You have to find your own formula.

At the moment, I think because of what Tiger did, everybody who comes out has nutritionists, coaches and psychologists, and that's just modern golf, and that's just the way it is for these girls. I seriously doubt whether they will be playing into their 40s and 50s.

Do you think the younger generation will burn out early?

I don't really know what burn out means, but I just think they will be fed up with it, because when you spend every week practising, even when you have a week off, eventually it becomes a job. It's never been a job for me.

It's always been great fun, and I’m really one of the luckiest people in the world to play a game that I love, and to play it reasonably well.

It's never been 'oh, I've got to go and practise now', I have to go and do this. It's always been, ‘I want to go and practise’, ‘I want to go and do this’. I think possibly that's why the careers are going to become a bit shorter. But if you're achieving those heights so young and early, why not go for it? Hopefully Michelle Wie and others will be playing at 50, and that will be great for the game.

Is it down to peer pressure that most of them feel they ought to be out on the range all the time?

I don't know. It just feels like they are practising because they think they should practise and maybe that's the way it is. Of course, you need to practise, but you also need to have fun. It’s striking the balance.

A 13 year old won on tour last month.

What do you think about the age at which some players are starting out in professional women’s golf?

My philosophy is if you're good enough, you're old enough, so I don’t have an issue with anyone having a go, providing they meet the required standard. Lexi Thompson played the US Open as a 12 year old, and Morgan Pressel played it as a really young girl, and they’ve both gone on to win Major championships. I don't think anything bad can come out of it, because these kids are too young to worry about the pressure.

How much has the women's game changed during your career?

Oh, there's no comparison really. All the best players in those days were in their 30s and 40s.

The Pat Bradleys, Beth Daniels. Now the best players are in their 20s, and often younger.

THE ONE THING THAT REALLY DOES ANNOY ME IS THAT PAST CHAMPIONS OF THE MEN’S OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP ALWAYS GET BACK IN, BUT NOT FOR THE WOMEN’S OPEN. I THINK IT’S RIDICULOUS The new generation is very athletic, and they generate tremendous power. Their clubhead speed is amazing. And I think that's the biggest difference. I think that's why people want to watch the women play now, because it's more athletic.

These days a hundred players every week have a really good chance of winning. The top players of yesteryear were every bit as good as now - there are just more of them now.

You’ve had so many highs in your career, but what has been the lowest point?

The lowest point probably was about nine or 10 years ago at the Nabisco, when I was playing so badly when I actually thought ‘I can't do it anymore’. I shot 84 in the second round, missed the cut by a mile, and flew home not very happy – so that was probably the worst I ever felt.

As a staunch supporter of the Ladies European Tour over the decades, how disappointing is it to see the schedule shrinking to the extent that it has in recent seasons?

Hopefully we will turn the corner at some point. It is a work in progress, but you would have thought by now we would have established ourselves a lot better than we have. It is incredibly hard. I was so fortunate to turn professional and have 23 or 24 tournaments to play in. Over the years that got stronger, until the economic downturn.

Since then the LET has really struggled. It’s nothing that the players have done wrong, not even that the officials have done wrong.

It is what it is. I’ve no idea why corporate sponsors have turned their back on the women’s game, because all I ever hear is what great value we are in pro-ams, how the girls are more approachable than the guys, and stuff like that. Yet the corporate world doesn’t get behind us, so shame on them, really.

What’s life been like as a dame over the past three years?

I always thought you only got one upgrade, but I got the double bump, so I'm in first class now, so it's lovely. It's just a great honour. I got the MBE in 1987 after I won the US Open, and the CBE in 1996, and I thought that would be

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INTERVIEW | AUGUST 2017 [43]

being in the same building as them, but obviously not on the same level as them, but in the same building, which is good enough for me.

What items from your collection did you donate to the Hall of Fame?

Lots of different bits and pieces. A European Solheim Cup golf bag and my original Benjie head cover. There were a few outfits and trophies, too, along with four sets of clubs, including the ones I used to win the 1987 US Women’s Open. I also donated the very first set of irons I owned – a set of MacGregor Tourneys that I picked up 1979. Choosing the items brought back a lot of great memories, and I’m proud people are now able to see some of the trophies and things I've accumulated over the years.

How disappointing was it to miss the official Hall of Fame induction?

It was hugely disappointing that I was unable to make the actual ceremony in St Andrews. I had a flight delay on my way back from competing in the US Women’s Open, but it was always going to be touch and go. I felt bad letting all those people down who travelled to be there. I was disappointed and I’m sure they were, too.

You were very critical of the way ‘Gimmegate’ was handled at the 2015 Solheim Cup. Do you think that it in some way tarnished the spirit of the matches going forward?

I was commentating on Sky at the time, and I said I was disgusted, and I genuinely meant that.

We are all fierce competitors, but ultimately it’s not something you do to a fellow pro. I know Suzann [Pettersen] felt she let herself down, and she certainly let her team down, and it ultimately led to a US fight back, and they won the match. I hope that everyone can just put it behind them and move on. The Solheim Cup is bigger than any one individual.

Retirement comes to all sportsmen and women at some stage. Have you given it much thought?

If I can walk around a course I will still try to win – as long as I'm not embarrassing myself. At the moment I'm not. I'm playing some really good golf. So as long as they don't have to carry me off the course, I'm going to keep on playing.

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it. To be honest, when the letter came through from the Palace, I thought it was tickets for the royal box at Wimbledon, as they often hand them out to sportsmen and women. So it was a real surprise when I opened it. Some people reject these things, but I’d signed and put it in the post box within three minutes! I don't think there's any tournament I could win now that can beat this honour, because its something that's given to you over a career. Nick Faldo got a knighthood for all he's done, so now I'm the first woman to get damehood. So, yeah, it's nice.

You were inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2015. How did that compare to the damehood?

I was really pleased to be inducted, mainly because they had a criteria rather than just a vote. I earned my way in there. I think it has to be up there with my damehood, alongside being made a member of the Royal and Ancient. I would have never considered looking at Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer and

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[44] AUGUST 2017 | LADIES TOUR NEWS

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KIM CLINGS ON AT KINGSBARNS TO CLINCH WOMEN’S BRITISH OPEN South Korea's Kim In-Kyung held her nerve to claim a first major title by winning the Women's British Open at Kingsbarns in Scotland.

K

im took a six-shot lead into the final round, but a course record-equalling 64 from Yorkshire’s Jodi Ewart Shadoff took her to within two shots of the lead.

Kim birdied the first and eighth holes, but her momentum stalled with a threeputt bogey on the ninth hole, and she came home with nine pars to win by two strokes.

With rounds of 65, 68, 66 and 71, the 29 year old from Seoul finished with a total of 18-under-par 270 to claim her fourth Ladies European Tour title and her 10th professional win in total, worth £387,996.

A superb run of scoring saw Ewart Shadoff follow a birdie on the second hole with five in a row from the sixth and another on the 13th. The 29 year old from Northallerton then birdied the 17th to close the gap to two and parred the last to complete a 64, equalling the record set on day one by Michelle Wie and matched by Inbee Park in round three.

■ JODIE EWART SHADOFF FINISHED SECOND

■ IK KIM JUMPS FOR JOY AFTER WINNING HER FIRST MAJOR TITLE

However, Kim, who famously missed a one-foot putt to win the Kraft Nabisco Championship in 2012, was able to par the final five holes for a winning total of 18 under par.

Despite strong winds and occasional driving rain, the

TEENAGER THITIKUL MAKES HISTORY AT THAI CHAMPS

T

hai 14 year old Atthaya Thitikul has become the youngest winner on the Ladies European Tour after claiming a two-shot victory at the Ladies European Thailand Championship at Phoenix Gold Golf & Country Club in Pattaya.

The teenage amateur produced a level-par 72 to finish the week on five under par - two strokes clear of nearest challenger Ana Menendez.

Thitikul began her fourth round one shot behind Menendez, after posting rounds of 70, 71 and 70. But, with the Mexican dropping four shots on the front nine during the final round, Thitikul found herself two shots clear at the turn. Menendez closed the gap to a single stroke with a gain at the 11th, but Thitikul coolly slotted in her 10-foot birdie putt at the 15th to re-establish her two-shot lead. And the 14 year old safely parred her remaining three holes to secure the trophy.

Being an amateur, Thitikul was unable to claim the €45,000 first prize, which went to Menendez.

"I'm so happy and proud of myself," the winner said. "I did not think about the score. I committed to every shot and stayed relaxed. My family do not play golf. When I was younger, my father told me to play sport and he offered tennis or golf, and I watched golf on TV and I liked it."

scores were low through the week, with the softened greens allowing players to take dead aim at the flags. Ewart Shaddoff’s 64 was matched by both Wie and Park during the earlier rounds.

Ewart Shadoff's runners-up finish secured her a place on Europe's Solheim Cup team to take on the United States

in Iowa from 18-20 August.

Speaking after the round, she said: “Starting the day I didn’t that I would have a shot at the title, as IK was way ahead. But I came out really strong, holed a great putt on the first hole, which set the tone for the day, and then my putter was really on fire. I had a great stretch in the middle of the round to get me going. I was really able to control my ball

flight in the wind all week and I holed a lot of putts.

Georgia Hall, who played in the final group alongside Kim on Sunday, was disappointed with her performance over the weekend. She said: “The way I finished off my round on Saturday really killed my chances of winning it. But I tried my best today. The weather was terrible.

There was a lot of rain and wind,

over par.

Lamb, from Clitheroe Golf Club in Lancashire, who shot earlier rounds of 69, 71 and 73, had her boyfriend, England amateur Marco Penge, on the bag for the week, and she credited him with

keeping her calm during the testing conditions experienced on the Scottish links.

Lamb, who won last year's Ladies British Stroke Play, said: "I think it's something everyone dreams of when they first start

LAMB GOES LOW AT BRITISH OPEN S

ophie Lamb shot a finalround 69 at Kingsbarns Golf Club to get into a tie for 30th overall and win the Smyth Salver for the lowest scoring amateur in the Ricoh Women's British Open.

Going into the final round, it was Ireland’s Leona Maguire who looked likely to win the award, just as she did in last year's championship, but the world no.2 women’s amateur struggled in the final round, slipping to a 75 and allowing Lamb to pass her, finishing in a tie for 49th at three under par.

The only other amateur to make the cut was My Leander of Sweden, who had two good rounds to start the tournament, but fell back throughout the weekend and finished at nine

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

LADIES TOUR NEWS | AUGUST 2017 [45]

PARK TRUMPS RIVALS AT US WOMEN’S OPEN

S

outh Korea’s Sung Hyun Park won the US Women’s Open after shooting 11 under par for four rounds over the Trump National course in New York.

Park, 23, outdueled Shanshan Feng and 17-year-old amateur Hye-Jin Choi in a thrilling final round to capture his first LPGA Tour title and her first major.

The 23 year old finished two strokes ahead of Choi, with Mi Jung Hur and So Yeon Ryu tied for third, while Feng fell to fifth along with Carlota Ciganda and Jeongeun Lee, having suffered a

triple bogey on the final hole.

A year ago, at CordeValle, Park had the 36-hole lead, but closed with a pair of 74s to finish two strokes out of the playoff between Brittany Lang and Anna Nordqvist. This time she had a pair of 67s on the weekend. And now, in her only two appearances in the US Women’s Open, Park has finished third and first. She was seven strokes back after 36 holes, then closed with a rush, making 12 birdies in her last 27 holes.

“I did not have the best first and second rounds,” Park said through a translator. “I wanted to believe in myself again for the final two rounds, and I did.”

FEEL THE JOY OF THE FIRST TEE, EVERY TIME. and I struggled to cope with that at times. I made a couple of silly mistakes, but coming third is more than I expected coming into the week, so I’m pretty happy with that.”

Fellow Solheim Cup player Charley Hull finished on eight under, Mel Reid ended on six under, and Laura Davies, playing in her 37th consecutive Open, finished on two under.

■ SOPHIE LAMB WITH THE SMYTH SALVER

to play golf. It's been a great experience for me to see how my game compares to the best in the world. My goal now is to get picked for next year’s Curtis Cup, before I turn professional at end of next season."

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[46] AUGUST 2017 | ANNABEL DIMMOCK

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ANNABEL DIMMOCK GOLF NEWS CATCHES UP WITH THE RISING L ADIES EUROPEAN TOUR STAR FROM WENT WORTH, WHO REACHED 10TH IN THE WORLD AMATEUR R ANKINGS BEFORE TURNING PRO IN 2015. ALTHOUGH HER ROOKIE SEASON WAS CUT SHORT THROUGH INJURY, SHE IS NOW BACK TO FULL FITNESS AND SET TING HER SIGHTS ON LOFT Y TARGETS

A

fter what must have been a tough first season in 2015, you must be delighted with the way 2016 panned out?

Absolutely. My rookie year was hampered by a back injury, so I almost felt like 2016 was my first proper year on tour. After leaving school and deciding to play golf full time, I developed a repetitive strain injury in my back. I was swinging it from in-to-out, and it was putting too much pressure on my lower back. So I had to take some time to sort that out, learn to swing it in a different way, and basically rebuild my game. The 2016 season started slowly, but I put in some strong performances towards the end of the year, particularly in the events in the Middle East, which gave me a lot of confidence and lifted me into the top 50 in the Order of Merit. It meant I didn’t have to worry about going to qualifying school, which was a huge relief.

A top-five finish in Qatar must have been a nice way to end the season?

To be honest, I went away from that tournament feeling like I could have won it. A level-par final round was a bit disappointing, given how well I felt I was playing, but getting the opportunity to play in the last few groups under the glare of the cameras was a great experience.

And you got off to a good start this season with a third-placed finish in Morocco. How good was that?

Yeah, it was a pretty good week, but when you put yourself in contention it's hard not to feel a bit disappointed when you don’t quite see it through. My swing got better every day, and even when I didn’t hit it well off the tee, I managed to keep my score going. It was amazing to play alongside Suzann Pettersen and I learned a lot from that, and the next time I’m in that situation I will be less nervous.

There haven’t been many events so far this season, so how have you kept your competitive edge?

We only had three tournaments between January and June, so it has definitely been hard to keep sharp, but it’s also given me a lot of time to work on all elements of my game, and get my swing in better shape.

I’ve been working hard with my coach, Lawrence Farmer. He’s based down at Long Ashton Golf Club in Bristol, so I go down and see him once a week, and I make good use of the great practice facilities at Wentworth, and get out on the golf courses as much as I can.

Who do you play with at Wentworth?

I usually play with few of the guys on tour who are around, including Warren Harmston, Seve Benson and Steve Brown. I play off the same tees and they give me a few shots, but I’m longer off the tee than Warren, so it’s normally a pretty good match! It’s hard to recreate the pressure of playing for your career in a friendly game, but we give it a good go.

You played in Thailand for the first time last month. How did you find playing in those conditions?

I could not believe how hot it was out there. The humidity was off the charts. I think I drank 11 bottles of water in one round and still didn’t need to go to the toilet! It was certainly an experience, and really opened my eyes to the different kinds of conditions that we are

required to play in. The greens had a really prominent grain, which made it really hard to judge distances on those mid-to-long putts.

Against the grain was like putting uphill.

How are you finding life on tour?

I love it. I always knew that I wanted to play on tour and, although it takes a little while to adjust to the lifestyle, once you get in the swing of things, it's brilliant.

I'm very lucky with my sponsors that I don’t have to worry about the financial side of life on tour, as I know that is a problem for a lot of the girls. The only downside is that you have a lot of time on your hands during events. I end up spending far too much time on social media, which is a habit I’m definitely trying to kick.

You were enrolled on the Wentworth scholarship programme in your teenage years. How important was that time in shaping your path from the amateur ranks through to the professional game?

Getting a scholarship at Wentworth was a brilliant opportunity.

From the age of 1, they gave me free coaching, free membership and lots of support, which was amazing, considering how good the facilities are there. My friend Inci Mehmet, who also earned her card on the Ladies European Tour, was also a scholar, so we could push our games on by competing alongside each other. Bernhard Gallagher has also been a big influence on me. He’s been mentoring me for the past few years and helping me with the mental side of golf, which is the part of my game that needs the most work, so that's also been a huge help.

You played in the Junior Ryder Cup and the Curtis Cup in 2014 as an amateur, so I guess the next logical step as a pro is the Solheim Cup. The Curtis Cup was a big moment for me, in terms of my confidence, and gave me a taste of what the Solheim would be like – so getting on the Solheim Cup team is definitely one of my main goals in the future. This year’s match was on my radar at the start of the year, but there have been so few events in the early part of the season that it’s been hard to make any significant move up the rankings,

so I’m targeting Gleneagles in 2019. I’ll be 23 by then, and will have some more experience under my belt. However, a first tour win is definitely the most important box for me to tick right now – that’s the first big challenge.

What was playing in the Curtis Cup like?

The Curtis Cup was huge. Many of the American girls, including players like Alison Lee, are now on the LPGA, and we got treated like superstars for the entire trip, so even though we ended up on the losing side, it was a brilliant week. Playing alongside Bronte Law was also a fantastic experience; she really is the ultimate competitor.

Has seeing Charley Hull’s success been a big inspiration for you?

What Charley has done over the last couple of seasons has been incredible. We played in the England squad together, so to see her burst onto the LET and then win the Tour Championship last year was a big confidence boost to a lot of girls who were in the national set-up. She’s a complete one-off, but seeing her do so well, and Bronte’s success as well, is really inspiring.

Have you given any thought to trying LPGA Tour qualifying at the end of this season?

Yes, I have. My world ranking gets me into the second stage of qualifying, I think, so I’m definitely going to have a crack at it. We all want to challenge ourselves against the best players in the world, and I think my long-term future may see me end up moving to America, although it’s obviously early days yet.

Do you have any new equipment in the bag this year?

I’ve switched drivers, from the old TaylorMade M1 to the new M2.

I’m getting about five yards extra carry, and five yards more roll, so it’s been a noticeable improvement. I’m hitting it around 265-270 yards on a good day, so I’m very pleased with that, but I need to work on my short game and my putting. All the top players on tour have incredible short games, and are great at getting up and down whenever they miss the green, so that’s something I definitely need to improve.

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FASHION ON THE FAIRWAYS Hampshire Golf star and TRENDYGOLF.COM’s head buyer Laura Barrow offers the inside scoop on styling it out on the golf course this season

LADIES NEWS | AUGUST 2017

[47]

LADIES EUROPEAN TOUR BOSS STEPS DOWN T

he chief executive of the Ladies European Tour has stepped down from his position following a season that has seen the tour’s schedule decimated through a lack of sponsors and limited number of events.

Ivan Khodabakhsh left his position with immediate effect, with the LET’s chairman, Mark Lichtenhein, assuming the day-to-day management of the tour.

A short statement on the LET’s website confirmed the German’s departure, and added that the tour’s board will now review ‘its current governance structure and business strategy’ as it searches for a long-term replacement.

Though the exact circumstances surrounding Khodabakhsh’s departure are not clear, the announcement, which came on August 9, was not unexpected. Pressure on Khodabakhsh, who joined the LET in 2013, had been mounting in recent months with the LET having struggled to retain several tournaments due to a lack of funding. The tour has cancelled seven events this season, leaving it with just 15 on its schedule, 11 short of its total six years ago. Earlier this month, players received an email notifying them that this year’s Xiamen International Ladies Open and Qatar Ladies Open had both been cancelled.

At the Ricoh Women’s British Open, Scotland’s Catriona Matthew questioned Khodabakhsh’s leadership and called for a management change at the LET. “I think the product’s there,” she said. “They have got a lot of good players. It’s just perhaps they have had the wrong person at the head. So, hopefully, if they can get that resolved, it can start building itself up again.”

■ ASHLEY MAYO DRESSED BY TRENDYGOLF.COM

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ENGLAND’S GIRLS RECLAIM HOME INTERNATIONAL CROWN E ngland reclaimed their crown as Girls’ Home Internationals champions, beating Ireland 6.5-2.5 to clinch the title on the final day at Little Aston, Staffordshire.

The strong English team was in dominant form throughout the match, despite losing Amelia Williamson to gastroenteritis on the eve of the championship.

Although the team was down to six players for the three-day

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tournament, England defeated Wales 8-1 and Scotland 7-2, before battling hard to defeat a tough young Irish squad on the last afternoon.

The English claimed the morning foursomes 2½-½, and then went further ahead in the singles when Hollie Muse and Sammie Fuller both won their sixth matches out of six by recording 6&5 victories over Lauren Walsh and Sara Byrne.

Team captain Janet Melville said: “The plan this week was to try to win every session. We knew that wouldn’t be easy, but we’ve managed it so we’re very pleased. We got off to a really good start this afternoon, and they were all up early on so that took the pressure off a bit."

This is England's ninth win in 10 years and during the decade the team has been beaten only

by Ireland in 2016.

The Girls’ team comprised Sammy Fuller (Roehampton, Surrey), Lily May Humphreys (Stoke-by-Nayland, Essex), Hollie Muse (West Lancashire), Emily Price (Cleobury Mortimer, Worcestershire), Hannah Screen, (Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire), Bel Wardle (Prestbury, Cheshire).

Amelia Williamson (Royal Cromer, Norfolk) was unwell and had to withdraw.

FULLER WINS U16 GIRLS TITLE

S

urrey’s Annabell Fuller birdied her way to victory in a play-off against Thalia Kirby for the English U16 girls’ open championship at Blackmoor Golf Club, Hampshire.

The pair tied on three under par after 54 holes to set up Fuller’s fifth play-off in a year – and the first one she has won. “I thought, I’m not going to lose another one,” said the 15-year-old international from Roehampton.

She wasted no time, scoring a birdie three on the first extra hole to secure the title – after she’d birdied the last two holes of regulation play to force the play-off.

Kirby made sure that Fuller had to fight for the title. The 16-year-old from Harleyford, Buckinghamshire, made all the running in the morning’s second round, with a four-under 68, while Fuller scored 75. It meant Kirby was six under after 36 holes, five ahead of her closest challengers and six ahead of Fuller.

The gap didn’t dismay Fuller, though. “I thought I would just and go as low as possible,” she said. The strategy worked, after nine holes she was two-under and tied with Kirby, but after 12 she’d dropped three behind again. She picked away at the deficit with a birdie on 13 and another on 17.

On the long 18th, her second shot rolled back off the green, but she chipped up stone dead, while Kirby three-putted down the treacherous slope. Fuller signed for 69, Kirby for 75 and it was on to the play-off.

[48] AUGUST 2017 | EQUIPMENT

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

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CHOBHAM GC SURREY

This superb 18-hole, par-69 golf course, which opened in 1994, was designed by Peter Alliss and Clive Clarke. It is laid out on naturally undulating parkland set amongst mature oak woodland, giving the impression that it has been around for many years. The course provides an excellent challenge to the skills of low and high handicap players alike. Built to championship standards, with USGA greens, the course has automatic irrigation, and a drainage system designed to provide excellent year-round play.

THE BRADFORD GC NORTH YORKSHIRE Located 10 miles from Leeds, The Bradford Golf Club’s 18-hole course, which first opened in 1923, is one of legendary architect Herbert Fowler’s finest designs. Offering stunning panoramic views across Baildon and the Rombalds Moor, the layout has recently benefitted from a thoughtful re-discovery of its heritage, enhancing the original Fowler design, with trees now forming more natural groups. The 16th and 17th holes form part of a quartet of finishing holes that are arguably the hardest in Yorkshire.

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BOWOOD, SPA AND GOLF RESORT WILTSHIRE

BLOXWICH GC WEST MIDLANDS

CRAIGMILLAR PARK GC EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND

Voted Wiltshire’s No.1 golf course, Bowood’s 18-hole championship course was designed by the late Dave Thomas and is an exciting prospect for all levels of golfer who have a passion for the game.

With easy access from the M4, the meticulously maintained course winds through the beautiful Wiltshire estate and blends perfectly with the wooded and undulating countryside. Visitors and societies are welcome all year round, and summer green fees start from as little as £35. Midweek Society Golf Days are available from £40.

Boasting a mature parkland course, Bloxwich makes full use of its natural hazards to provide a testing round for all. The 18-hole layout measures 6,296 yards off the white tees, and features an interesting mix of five par threes and four par fives, while there are two par fours over 450 yards. Visitors are welcome, with green fees starting from £30pp, while society packages for groups of 16+ are available from £25pp.

Boasting fantastic views across the city of Edinburgh and the Firth to Fife, Craigmillar’s par-70 course was first established in 1907. It expanded from nine to 18 holes in 1927 at the hands of James Braid. Laid out over the undulating slopes near the Royal Observatory, the 5,828-yard layout will test all elements of your game. Green fees start from £25pp, and society packages from £32pp.

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LONGNIDDRY GC EAST LOTHIAN, SCOTLAND

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Welwyn Garden City Golf Club

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Designed by Harry Colt in 1921, Longniddry’s unusual mixture of links and woodland holes will get your strategic golfing brain thinking. There are special four ball rates for Golf News readers - – £160 after 1pm on Tues/Thurs and £240 after 2pm at weekends.

Quote ‘GN COLT’ when booking.

325243 Shop: 01707 325525 Welwyn GardenOffice: City 01707 enjoys a rich Pro heritage, having been designed Web: www.wgcgc.co.uk Email: denise@wgcgc.co.uk

by Fred Hawtree, and been the club where Sir Nick Faldo learned Mannicotts, High Oaks Road, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire AL8 7BP to play the game. Measuring 6,112 yards off the back tees, the undulating parkland layout remains a challenge for all, thanks to some lengthy par threes, long par fours, and a 600-yard par five. With year-round playability and superb greens, a friendly welcome awaits all visitors, with green fees starting from £25.

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FRILFORD HEATH GC OXFORDSHIRE

TORWOODLEE GC GALASHIELS, SCOTLAND

ROMSEY GC HAMPSHIRE

Located 30 miles south of Edinburgh, Torwoodlee welcomes visitors from around the world to sample its majestic 18-hole course and experience the warmest of Scottish Borders hospitality. The picturesque 6,021-yard parkland course is set in a valley amongst mature trees, flanked by the River Gala. Golf News readers can book a special rate for a four ball of £80 (£100 including buggies fitted with GPS).

Situated in rolling countryside less than a mile from junction 3 of the M27, Romsey Golf Club is an oasis of beauty on the edge of Southampton. The course makes its way through undulating ground with tree-lined fairways, raised greens and deep bunkers. Although not a long course – 5,718 yards, par 69 – its tight lines will provide a test of golf for all levels of player. The signature hole is undoubtedly the downhill par-four 6th, which comes in the middle of Romsey’s own Amen Corner, and offers stunning views of the countryside.

Boasting two unique courses, the Championship and the Warren, Littlestone offers visitors the chance to play on superbly presented links layouts located on the natural undulating land between Romney Marsh and the Channel. With free-draining fairways and superb greens, the contrasting courses make for a superb day’s golf at any time of the year. Visitors and societies are welcome every day, with peak-time summer green fees from £80 and society packages from £70.

Founded in 1908, Frilford Heath is one of the few clubs in England to boast three 18-hole courses – the Red, Green and Blue. The 6,912-yard Red is the championship layout, having been designed by JH Taylor and hosted numerous top-class professional and amateur events, while the 6,728-yard is the newest, having opened in 1994. Visitors are welcome seven days a week, with a summer all-day golf package costing £100/£130 (wd/we).

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EQUIPMENT | AUGUST 2017 [49]

FORESIGHT SPORTS: TECHNOLOGY FOR SERIOUS GOLFERS

E

very golfer loves playing when it’s warm and dry. But now perfect playing conditions can be enjoyed year-round to practise shots on famous signature holes, hone short game skills, compete against friends in online tournament play, or simply have fun avoiding zombies!

Thanks to the unparalleled accuracy of its camera-based technology, Foresight Sports, the market leader in precision launch monitors and true-to-life simulators, has taken indoor golf to a whole new level.

It all began with the development of its GC (Game Changing) launch monitors that go far beyond the capabilities of conventional radarbased monitors. The Tour-proven GC2+HMT and GCQuad launch monitors use ultra-high-speed stereoscopic cameras that capture data at up to 10,000 frames per second to measure and visually verify ball-striking performance.

Their unprecedented accuracy and pioneering

club delivery data have transformed the lessons given by thousands of teaching professionals, and provided golfers looking to improve their game more tangible results.

The GC2 locks onto the dimple pattern of the ball at address, measuring launch angle, direction of flight, back spin, side spin and ball speed for every club and shot. Meanwhile, the HMT (Head Measurement Technology) delivers unrivalled analysis of club head delivery and measures angle of attack, path, clubhead speed, loft, lie, closure rate, and impact location.

REVOLUTIONARY SIMULATOR PERFORMANCE

The GCQuad, which was launched in January, delivers even more accurate ball and club data thanks to its ground-breaking use of four ultrahigh-speed cameras in a single device. These new features include an expanded ball capture area, producing a hitting zone up to six times larger than those provided by GC2+HMT launch monitors, which use two cameras.

There’s also an on-board target alignment capability using Foresight’s proprietary alignment stick, as well as a larger viewable display screen for both indoor and outdoor use.

■ FORESIGHT SPORTS' LAUNCH MONITORS ARE IDEAL FOR COACHING AND FOR GAME PLAY

Foresight’s revolutionary performance simulators with 4k-ready ultra-high-definition FSX software include a full-size projection screen and can be installed wherever there is space to swing a club.

The software even enables golfers to switch to live weather conditions for the ultimate challenge.

They also offer specific practice, competition or play modes, and a personal data tracking account in the cloud to monitor performance and improvements.

The effective combination of the industry’s most accurate ball flight and club delivery analysis, matched with exclusive FSX software, makes the Foresight simulators the most realistic and trusted on the market – and popular not only with PGA professionals and club fitters, but Premier League stars and celebrity golfers too.

PLAY ICONIC COURSES More than 80 of the world’s most iconic golf courses are available on the FSX software, including the last two Open Championship venues, Royal Troon and Royal Birkdale, plus the 2017 US PGA venue at Quail Hollow and Wentworth, home of the BMW PGA Championship on the European Tour.

The attention to detail ensures that every fairway undulation, bunker ridge and green contour is replicated to give golfers the ultimate realism, with each shot subjected to real life conditions both in flight and on landing.

For more information on Foresight Sports, visit www.foresightsports.eu, or to find your nearest professional using Foresight Sports technology, email venues@foresightsports.eu.

[50] AUGUST 2017 | INTERVIEW

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

WESTY’S

MASTERS MOMENT While Augusta’s green jacket may have eluded him once again, Lee Westwood has another Masters’ title on his mind this year, when he plays host at next month’s British Masters, which is being held at his home course, Close House in Newcastle

H

aving spent two decades in the golfing spotlight, rising to world number one, European number one, and earning a place among the most decorated Ryder Cup players in history, Lee Westwood is accustomed to being in the media and

public spotlight.

A hugely popular figure among British golf fans – the cheer that went around the first tee at last month’s Open Championship at Royal Birkdale was evidence of that – the 44 year old from Worksop is one of the most successful English golfers of the modern era, with 23 career titles and over €30 million in prize money banked from since he turned professional in 1994.

While the father of two has graced every corner of the globe in the pursuit of golfing glory, Westwood likes nothing more than playing in front of a home crowd, and the galleries won’t come more homely, or more partisan, than when he tees it up at next month’s British Masters, which is being held at Close House in Newcastle – the club to which he has been attached since it first opened in 2011 – and on a championship course which he helped design.

In hosting the tournament, which is supported by Sky Sports, Westwood will be joining a growing list of British golfing stars to have carried out the same role, which was first started by Ian Poulter at Woburn in 2015, and followed up by Luke Donald at The Grove last year. Unfortunately neither player managed

to win their respective tournaments, but that’s not putting off Westwood, who played in both those events, and won the British Masters in 2007, when it was held at The Belfry.

"The guys who've hosted tournaments have said it's tough to host and play well, given all the off-course commitments during the week, but I hope to buck that trend," said Westwood. "The Colt Course looks good, the tweaks we've made should test the players, and everything is falling into place really well. The team at Close House is putting a huge effort into making sure everything is perfect. Between them, the European Tour, and Sky Sports, it's going to be a fantastic tournament.”

He added: "The event will be a great showcase for the North East, and I know the players who are already confirmed are looking forward to coming up to Newcastle, sampling the famous hospitality and playing the golf course.”

Among those players committed to attending are the two most recent US Masters' champions Danny Willett and Sergio Garcia, who will both be huge draws to local fans, with the Spaniard a particular catch, given his rare sorties in Europe these days.

"Sergio is certainly a great addition to the tournament,” said Westwood. “I’ve been friends with him for a long time. He's just a nice guy, and he’s such a fan favourite.

The response so far from fans has been brilliant, and the tournament is getting very well supported with sponsors.

The field is shaping up nicely, so it will be a great week, and

I'm really looking forward to it."

As well as hosting the tournament, Westwood has played a big part in the changes that have been made to the Colt Course to test the best players in the world, alongside golf course and estates manager Brian Clark and architect Scott Macpherson.

"We've made a few tweaks, added some length where it was needed, and changed some bunkers,” Westwood said. “We've also brought the rough in over the summer, which I'm sure the members will be cursing me come September.”

Westwood admits the changes should give him an advantage over his tour rivals following his regular visits, and that this year's practice is sure to be useful as he looks to improve on his third place finish at The Grove in 2016.

In another tweak to the format, this year’s event will be preceded by a special junior event, the Junior Masters, which will see qualifiers from seven events across the North of England compete on Close House’s Filly Course on the Tuesday of British Masters' week, with the winner receiving the trophy from Westwood himself, and joining the professionals in Wednesday's pro am.

"I was keen to get the juniors involved in the tournament and was inspired by something similar at last year's Italian Open," said Westwood. "There was a big group of kids on the putting green who were playing a tournament on the course next door, and to see the juniors mixing with the professionals and getting some tips was really inspiring.

INTERVIEW | AUGUST 2017

"To get the kids involved and let them meet their heroes will be a great memory for them, and they will get a card in their hands and put a score down in a big event as well. We need to inspire kids to become the next Lee Westwood or Danny Willett, and give them more opportunities to play golf.”

As well as being attached tour professional, Westwood now has a home in Newcastle and is enjoying life in the North East, as he concentrates on playing the European Tour and spending time with his son Sam and daughter Poppy.

"I love living in Newcastle, everyone is really friendly and I have a lot of friends in the North East. Newcastle is a great city, and I enjoy my time here a lot. Close House is also a big part of my life now; I've put down roots in Newcastle and I plan to stay here. The kids are in great form right now. I played in the pro am at Fancourt in South Africa with Sam at the start of the year. We finished fourth in the team event and had a great week.

"Helen [Storey, Lee's partner] caddied for me in Abu Dhabi as well, with Billy being unavailable. That was a good experience, though it's a while since I've done my own yardages. It was a little bit different without Billy but Helen settled right into caddying and did a great job.”

As a committed family man, Westwood is now concentrating his time on the European Tour and is currently lying 27th on the Race to Dubai in what is his 23rd year on tour. "I played alright last season, with a good finish in the Race to Dubai [13th], and a move up the world rankings,” said Westwood, who is fast closing in on 500 European Tour appearances. “It was a little bit disappointing to go without a win, but I played some good golf. I didn't miss too many cuts, had plenty of top 10s, and came close again at Augusta."

So far this year, Westwood has once again drawn a blank in the majors, although he has enjoyed creditable results for someone nearer the end than the beginning of his career

[51]

I LOVE LIVING IN NEWCASTLE, EVERYONE IS REALLY FRIENDLY AND I HAVE A LOT OF FRIENDS IN THE NORTH EAST. NEWCASTLE IS A GREAT CITY AND I ENJOY MY TIME HERE A LOT. CLOSE HOUSE IS ALSO A BIG PART OF MY LIFE NOW; I'VE PUT DOWN ROOTS IN NEWCASTLE AND I PLAN TO STAY HERE – finishing 27th at the Open, 55th at the US Open and 18th at the Masters. He has also played consistently well on the European Tour, posting seven top-20s, including eight in Abu Dhabi at the beginning of the year and 10th at the French Open in June, and missing just one cut – all of which has taken him to 54th in the world rankings.

"I'm hitting the ball well, my game feels sharp, and I'm looking forward to the rest the season,” he said.

With the major season over for another year, Westwood is looking forward to turning his attentions to the British Masters, which is sure to be the pinnacle of his six-year association with Close House, which began with opening the Colt Course in 2011 and has seen him become a huge part of Close House's history. "To have the golfing spotlight on Close House will be the highlight of my year. I want to do a good job that week as host, and I hope everyone enjoys what is going to be a special occasion for us, the team and the North East."

WHERE THE BRITISH MASTERS WILL BE WON AND LOST

YOUR GUIDE TO CLOSE HOUSE’S COLT COURSE

M

easuring 6,850 yards from the tips – which will be stretched to just over 7,000 yards for the tournament – the par-71 Colt Course is a thoroughly engaging layout that incorporates many of the site's historical features in its routing, including a Roman Fort, haha walls, ancient woodland and an ice lake.

The first three holes are relatively gentle par fours that ease you into the round, where strategy is more important than strength, but things get trickier at the first short hole, the 221-yard fourth, where anything short or right will find trouble.

You then work your way to the top of the hill via the par-four 5th and par-five 7th, which will play as a demanding 483-yard par four for the pros. The reward at the 8th is a very welcoming downhill drive to a split fairway, although the green is tough

to reach, being protected by three bunkers.

The short hole that closes the front nine is a cracker, with a very attractive pond and a fall-off area to the right that can leave a tricky pitch.

The back nine has even more variety, with perhaps the finest views of the Tyne valley to be enjoyed from the ‘infinity’ green at the excellent 11th, which needs no bunkering for protection despite being stroke index one.

The par-4 13th offers another very enticing downhill drive, although there are plenty of beautifully contoured bunkers lying in wait both on the way down and beside the green. The 16th is another very tough hole, a dogleg left played to a blind fairway, where your drive has to be long and accurate if you are to get any sight of the green.

Respite is offered at the par-5 17th, providing you get a good drive away and aren’t blocked out by a copse of tall trees, while the closing hole, which will be the 14th for the tournament, is also a belter, with the green protected by water as well as an old drystone wall.

The configuration of the course is being switched around for the tournament, starting out on the fifth hole, creating a challenging opening stretch, and finishing with a suitably dramatic 200yard par three, which will be virtually surrounded by grandstands and hospitality marquees.

With so many vantage points from which to view the action, the Colt course looks a natural fit for tournament golf, and there is sure to be strong demand for tickets. The first round is already a sellout, courtesy of Sky Sports' 10,000 ticket giveaway to its subscribers.

[52] AUGUST 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

STORY BEHIND THE PIC SOLHEIM CUP • LAKE NONA, FLORIDA • NOVEMBER 18, 1990

WITH THE 15TH SOLHEIM CUP about to tee off in Iowa, it seems an apposite time to turn back the clock to the match’s very first encounter, which took place at Lake Nona Golf Country Club in Florida some 27 years ago.

Named after Karsten Solheim, the man who founded golf equipment company Ping, the Solheim Cup made its debut in 1990 as a biennial match pitting Europe against America, in what was billed, albeit unofficially, as the women’s game’s version of the Ryder Cup. Since 2002, the formats have been the same for both events, comprising 28 matches – eight foursomes, eight four-balls and 12 singles – played over three days. As with the Ryder Cup, the qualification for each team has changed significantly over the years, with Europe’s team now offering just four automatic places from points scored on the Ladies European Tour and four from the world rankings, reflecting the strength of the LPGA Tour in America, while this year’s matches saw Europe opting for four wildcards over the American team’s two.

America currently holds sway in terms of results, having won nine of the 14 matches to Europe’s five, while Europe has only ever recorded one win on away soil, which was achieved in Colorado in 2013, when the visitors romped to a 18-10 win – the widest margin of victory in the competition’s history.

The very first match, which was an eight-a-side contest, resulted in a decisive home win for America, whose team

was led by Kathy Whitworth and contained LPGA legends including Nancy Lopez, Pat Bradley, Beth Daniels and Rosie Jones, who had too much firepower even for Mickey Walker’s European team, which included Laura Davies, Helen Alfredsson, Alison Nicholas and Trish Johnson.

Unlike today, the format required that no-one was left out on any one day, with four rounds of foursomes on the first day, and six rounds of four-ball matches on day two, before the final eight singles matches on the final day.

With so little action to watch on the opening two days, the teams were increased to 10-a-side in 1994, and then to 12-a-side in 1996.

Southern Counties

HEATHLAND GOLF TOURS

Despite Davies and Nicholas upsetting the odds by winning the opening match against Lopez and Bradley, America took a 3-1 lead on the opening day, doubled their lead to 6-2 on day two, and won the singles 5.5-2.5 to seal a 11.5-4.5 victory. Betsy King and Beth Daniels were nicknamed ‘God & God’ by the European team, and they lived up to their billing by winning all their matches that week.

The early matches were treated with mild indifference by the golfing world at large, and it is only in the last 10 years, following Europe’s improved run, that it has gained traction with the wider public, with the matches now extremely well attended in both the US and Europe, and drawing a growing TV audience.

With 15 of the current world’s top-20 women being from neither continent, there are many who question the Solheim Cup’s validity as a battle of the game’s true elite, but regardless of the world rankings of their competitors, the matches have lost none of their combativeness, and, if anything, are more fiercely fought than ever, with recent encounters being noted for the feisty spirit in which they have been played.

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NEWS | AUGUST 2017

[53]

TOURNEWS...

MCILROY SPLITS WITH CADDIE AS MAJOR DROUGHT CONTINUES

US PGA TO BE MOVED TO MAY

T

R

ory McIlroy has split with his caddie of nine years, JP Fitzgerald, after finishing tied-fourth in the Open Championship.

McIlroy, who won four majors and 26 tour titles with the Dubliner, paid tribute to him at Birkdale for a pep talk which turned around his fortunes after opening up with five bogeys in six holes, but then ended their nine-year partnership just days after the tournament, saying that he needed to break the working relationship in order to preserve their friendship.

Harry Diamond, a friend of McIlroy’s from Holywood Golf Club in Northern Ireland, slipped into the vacant role at the WGC Bridgestone Invitational and for the US PGA Championship, but a permanent replacement has yet to be announced. Diamond has caddied for the world No.4 before, notably at the 2008 Dubai Desert Classic.

McIlroy, who has not won a major since picking up two in 2014, has been a vociferous defender of Fitzgerald in the past, notably after the player imploded on the back nine of his final round at the 2011 Masters with a first major in sight.

The loyalty seemed justified two months later when McIlroy won the US Open. “He has taken me from 200 in the world to major champion,” he said afterwards – not long before becoming No.1 in the world.

Fitzgerald, who is reported to have earned $1.65m in the 12 months until June, has also caddied for Paul McGinley, Darren Clarke and Ernie Els, and will most likely not have to wait long to find a new bag to carry.

MATSUYAMA ON FIRE AT FIRESTONE

J

apan’s Hideki Matsuyama shot a nine-under-par 61 to win the Bridgestone Invitational by five shots in Ohio.

The 25-year-old world No.3, who started the final round two shots behind Zach Johnson and Thomas Pieters, sunk an eagle and seven birdies to equal the course record at Akron. Johnson carded 68 to finish five shots behind the winner on 11 under, one ahead of fellow America Charley Hoffman. Paul Casey, Rory McIlroy and Russell Knox all finished on

seven under.

Matsuyama became only the fourth player, after José Maria Olazabal, Tiger Woods and Sergio Garcia, to shoot 61 on Firestone Country Club's South

Course. "I played with Tiger four years ago when he shot 61, so I knew 61 was the number today," said Matsuyama.

"I was thinking about that at 16 - I knew if I birdied 16, 17 and 18, I could get there."

The victory continues a fine run of form for Matsuyama since the end of last year. This was his sixth win in his past 20 starts - during which time he has also managed four top-five finishes and five more top-25s.

He claimed his second WGC title after becoming the first Asian player to win one last October, in Shanghai.

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he US PGA Championship, traditionally the season’s final major, is to be moved to a new date in May from as early as 2019.

The tournament, which began as a match play event in 1916, and only switched stroke play in 1958, has been contested in July or August every year apart from 1971, when it was staged in February.

However, officials from the PGA of America and PGA Tour have been considering moving the Players Championship from May to its old March date, with the US PGA switching from August to May. Next year’s US PGA, which marks the championship’s 100th anniversary, is to be staged at Bellerive Country Club in Illinois, while the 2019 renewal is

scheduled to be held at Bethpage Black in New York.

The switch would mean a major championship in each month from April to July, with the Open Championship becoming the final major of the season.

The biggest benefit to the PGA Tour is being able to complete the FedEx Cup play-offs before the start of the NFL and college football seasons.

Moving to May would limit the available courses for the US PGA due to weather conditions, but going from last to second has obvious appeal to a tournament which has previously used slogans such as 'Glory's Last Shot' in an attempt to make a virtue of its place in the schedule.

LANGER CAPTURES SENIOR BRITISH OPEN EN ROUTE TO 10TH MAJOR TITLE

B

ernhard Langer became the most successful golfer in Senior Major Championship history as he secured his third Senior Open Championship.

The 59-year-old German, victorious at this event in 2010 and 2014, was previously tied with South Africa’s Gary Player on nine senior major victories, and he moved into double figures with a three-stroke victory over Corey Pavin.

With his second victory on the links of Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, Langer joins Player and Tom Watson as the only three-time winners of the Senior Claret Jug. “It’s a fantastic feeling to have won here again,” said Langer, who began the final round with a four-shot lead.

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[54] AUGUST 2017 | USPGA REVIEW

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THOMAS SILENCES THE DOUBTERS After collapsing when in contention at the US Open, America’s Justin Thomas showed that he has the big game temperament to match his big-hitting game, when capturing the 99th PGA Championship

J ■ THOMAS HITS HIS LONG-RANGE PUTT STONE DEAD ON THE FINAL HOLE TO TAKE THE TITLE

ustin Thomas confirmed his place in the game’s growing list of rising stars when emerging from a crowded Sunday leaderboard to capture his first major title at the 99th US PGA Championship at Quail Hollow.

The 24-year-old American entered the season’s final major somewhat under the radar, at least as far as the bookmakers were concerned, despite having won no fewer than three times on the PGA Tour this season. But after a flaky final round performance at June’s US Open, he showed that he possesses the nerve, as well as the skill, to handle the game’s biggest stages, fending off challenges from an international line-up of experienced players to win the Wanamaker Trophy by two shots.

Breaking free from a five-way tie for the lead early on the back nine of a fascinating and ever-changing final round, Thomas reached eight under par with a closing 68 to claim his first major title. Three world-class players – Patrick Reed, Francesco Molinari and Louis Oosthuizen – tied for second.

The defining moments, and there were many in an afternoon of twists and turns, first came at the 13th, when Thomas chipped in from off the green for a birdie, to take a share of the lead. The second, and without question the killer blow, was landed at the par-three 17th, when he holed a 15-foot putt for a two on the second component in Quail Hollow’s ‘Green Mile’ – the stretch of three closing holes that measures over 1,200 yards – which gave the young man from Kentucky the luxury of ‘only’ needing a bogey on the potentially treacherous closing par four. Having driven into a fairway bunker at the last, Thomas played safely for the five that clinched his fourth PGA Tour victory of the season, and

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

USPGA REVIEW | AUGUST 2017 [55]

DESPITE WEIGHING LESS THAN 11 STONE, THOMAS IS ONE OF THE LONGEST HITTERS ON THE PGA TOUR – AVERAGING 310 YARDS OFF THE TEE – AND SEEMS TO HIT ALMOST EVERY SHOT AT FULL POWER. HIS AGGRESSIVE TACTICS PAID OFF HANDSOMELY THIS TIME

■ ITALY'S FRANCESCO MOLINARI TIED FOR SECOND WITH A CLOSING 67

earned him a cool $1.9m payday.

“To make a birdie at 17 was beyond a bonus,” said Thomas, who was hugged by close friends Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler as he left the 18th green. “My aim was to be patient all day. I didn’t do that at the US Open this year, and so didn’t have my best stuff. I just needed to be more patient. I felt like I had the game to win and I was hitting the ball so far today, with all the adrenaline.”

Despite weighing less than 11 stone, Thomas is one of the longest hitters on the PGA Tour – averaging 310 yards off the tee – and seems to hit almost every shot at full power. His aggressive tactics paid off handsomely this time, although they had failed him at the US Open, where he slumped to a closing 75 after posting a third round 63.

Playing alongside the hotly-fancied world No.3 Hideki Matsuyama in the penultimate group, Thomas consistently outdrove his playing partner – who is no slouch with a driver – putting pressure on the Japanese star, who ultimately crumbled in the face of the American’s superior, and more accurate, firepower, and deft touch with the putter.

Matsuyama, bidding to become his nation’s first major champion, looked out of sorts from the start of the final round, but despite missing numerous fairways and greens, still found himself with a one-shot lead at the turn. However, the winner of the previous week’s WGC event missed several crucial putts inside six feet over the closing holes, and seemed crushed by the weight of expectation.

An untidy final-hole bogey saw the Japanese star slip into a share of fifth place with Fowler, who once again came up short on the Sunday of a major. Although his final round 67 was the joint best round of the day, the orange-clad star had left himself too much work to do, after dropping four shots over the final three holes on Saturday.

The same applied to Jason Day, the 2015 US PGA champion, who played himself into contention with three birdies on the back nine on Saturday, only to immediately play himself out of it again with a quadruple-bogey eight at the

■ HIDEKI MATSUYAMA LOST HIS CHANCE TO MAKE MAJOR HISTORY AFTER SUFFERING A POOR FINAL ROUND ON QUAIL HOLLOW'S GREENS

US PGA CHAMPIONSHIP TOP 10 QUAIL HOLLOW, AUGUST 10-13

-8 THOMAS -6 MOLINARI, REED, OOSTHUIZEN -5 FOWLER, MATSUYAMA -4 DELAET, KISNER -1 SMITH, KUCHAR, DAY, STROUD

■ JUSTIN THOMAS UNLEASHES ANOTHER MONSTER DRIVE EN ROUTE TO HIS FIRST MAJOR VICTORY

18th hole. A final round 71 saw him finish in a tie for ninth, with Chris Stroud, Matt Kuchar, and Britain’s highest finisher, Jordan Smith.

The 24 year old from Bath, playing in his first major championship, closed with a three-under-par 68 that was bogey-free until the 18th. This latest chapter in Smith’s career is but the latest step in his seemingly seamless rise through the professional ranks. Leading money-winner on the EuroPro circuit in 2015, the former Walker Cup player repeated that feat a year later on the Challenge Tour.

And this season he has already won on the European Tour, at the recent Porsche European Open.

“Jordan is really, really good,” said Kuchar, who shot a 68 of his own in Smith’s company. “He drove it beautifully and long. And, although he didn’t miss many shots, when he did he was pretty good at recovering. There aren’t many weaknesses in his game. He has the sort of effortless power that reminds me of Louis Oosthuizen.”

Smith was delighted that his debut in an American major turned out so well.

He even won the battle with namesake Spieth for the unofficial title of ‘low Jordan’, which represents something akin to payback. Regularly mistaken for this year’s Open champion, Smith was even introduced on the tee in jest as ‘Jordan Spieth’ at last year’s Challenge Tour Grand Final.

“I’m really, really happy with the way I played today,” said Smith, who is attached to Bowood Hotel Spa & Golf Resort. “It was a bit of a shame about the last hole, but overall I’m just really chuffed with myself. I’ve had some really good playing partners, enjoyed the whole experience, and ended up playing some really good golf. I just need to keep doing what I’m doing. It has worked so far, so I’m just hoping that progression can keep going.”

Spieth – the real one – finished three shots behind his doppelgänger. Bidding to become the youngest player to win a career Grand Slam, the Texan finished tied for 28th after rounds of 72, 73, 71 and 70, and declared himself satisfied with a major year that brought him a Claret Jug, a tied 11th in the Masters, and 35th at the US Open.

Smith fared much the best of the UK contingent, with the impressively consistent, if slightly frustrating, Paul Casey stalling over the weekend to finish in a tie for 13th, while Rory McIlroy never landed a blow in tied 22nd, after suffering a cold week with the putter. A final round 68 saw the world no.4 finish nine shots behind the winner, and talking of possibly taking the rest of the year off to sort out his rib injury, which he later admitted was still causing him discomfort.

But one man feeling no pain is Justin Thomas, one of the new breed of young players who like to hit it hard, hit it hard again, and see where it takes them.

Judging by his performances this year, most likely to the very top of the game.

[56] AUGUST 2017 | OPEN REVIEW

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“I WAS SO CONFIDENT GOING INTO THE FINAL ROUND, AND THEN, ALL OF A SUDDEN, THE WHEELS CAME OFF” Open Champion Jordan Spieth describes the high and lows of the final round at Royal Birkdale which resulted in the young Texan moving one step closer to a career grand slam

I

s that one of the more dramatic final rounds you've had in a major championship?

Yeah, I've had a couple, I guess, but, boy, this was eventful.

After the round, I told my caddie that 17 pars and a birdie would have been fine, too. But there are a lot of roads to get to a score and I chose the difficult, although still, ultimately, successful one. As you can imagine, when things were unraveling on the front nine, there were a lot of thoughts going through my head about the last time I was leading a major on a Sunday, and what happened there. I was so confident going into the final round, and all of a sudden, the wheels kind of came off. I was trust trying to get back on track to salvage the round and give myself a chance at the end. It took a bogey on 13 to turn it all around.

Was it simply nerves or the weight of expectation that got you off to such a bad start?

I was just as nervous yesterday during the round, and I knew the conditions were harder, but I just wasn't executing. And sometimes you just can't really put your finger on it. Am I pulling it? Pushing it? Am I doing both? What's going on with the stroke?

It's just searching. And during the round I definitely thought any kind of fear or advantage that you can have in this moment over other individuals, not just Matt Kuchar, is being taken away by the way that I'm playing right now. And that was really tough to swallow. And that kind of stuff goes into your head. I mean, we walked for two or three minutes in between shots. And you can't just go blank. You wish you could, but thoughts creep in.

You seemed to have an incredibly good knowledge of the rules when you got in trouble on 13. Have you studied them in great detail?

No, I've just hit it in a lot of strange places before – so I’ve got previous in this department! And honestly, if I was a very

Kuchar to make him wait all that time?

I wasn’t fair to him, but I needed to do what I could to produce the best score. I didn't go overboard in what I was doing, it just took that much time to figure it out. I went over and apologised to him and he was very gracious. Hopefully I would have reacted the same way if he’d been in that situation.

Did losing the lead to on the back nine help to free you to play more aggressively?

Once I lost my lead, I actually felt the nerves go away for a few holes, until I got the lead back again. And then they were back.

And it's just kind of powering through that. You can control your nerves, to an extent, but certain situations are going to bring more tension and you have to channel it the right way, and play the right shots. It was difficult thing to do, because I was just so up and down.

Five under par for the last five holes? Can you explain it?

The putt on 13 was just massive. When I hit the tee shot, I put my hands over my head and was thinking, oh boy, this could be a six.

I’m going to be at least two shots behind. But then I hole the putt and Matt plays safe, and I’m only one shot behind. I lost the hole, but it was a huge momentum shift. And then I almost holed my tee shot on 14, and we were tied, and all of a sudden I felt and believed that I could win the tournament. I got some lucky breaks for sure, especially on 17 when I was so far wide I missed the bunker, and I almost hit a guy on the head on 16.

straight driver of the ball, I would probably have made a different score on that hole. And having been in unplayable situations before, I just asked the questions, is the driving range out of bounds? And I got the answer, no. And I thought, well, then, that's a much better location for me to hit the next shot, because I can get it much closer to the green, and it saves me almost a full stroke from going back to the tee.

And the amount of time it took was trying to figure out where exactly the drop would be, to where my nearest point of relief from the equipment trailers, would be to the right side on the driving range, instead of to the left side, where I wouldn't be able to get a lot of club on the ball. I knew that on that line I was going to be – I was going to be okay hitting from the driving range, and getting it up somewhere near the green.

And from there it was about which club to hit. And Michael told me, ‘No 3-wood, hit 3-iron’. And I hit it, thought it was right.

After I struck it, I didn't like it because it wasn't where we were trying to hit it, but I had some room, given the club and the yardage I had.

I WAS JUST AS NERVOUS YESTERDAY DURING THE ROUND, AND I KNEW THE CONDITIONS WERE HARDER, BUT I JUST WASN'T EXECUTING. AND SOMETIMES YOU JUST CAN'T REALLY PUT YOUR FINGER ON IT

Did you feel it was a little unfair on

What did you say to your caddie when you holed the 50-foot eagle putt on 15?

I didn't really know what I was doing at that point. If I could redo it, I would have done a big fist pump instead. I don't think I enjoyed that eagle as much as I should have. But I looked over at Michael, and he was in shock too, and I just said, ‘Pick that ball up out of the hole’. He didn't really know what I was saying at first.

How exciting is it to have the career Grand Slam in your sights at the age of 24, and the chance to eclipse Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods?

Yeah, it's incredible. It's a career goal. Growing up playing golf, I just wanted to be able to play in the majors and compete with the best in the world, and things have happened very quickly.

And it's good and bad, because a lot of expectation comes with it. I wanted to be in this position, but it becomes harder when it doesn't go your way. And you're harder on yourself because you expect so much. Therefore, I'm going to thoroughly enjoy being able to call myself an Open champion. I look back on 2015 and thought, yeah, I enjoyed it, but I never realised the significance until you kind of hit a low, to appreciate the high so much. And this is as much of a high as I've ever experienced in my golfing life.

And I'm going to enjoy it more than I've enjoyed anything that I've accomplished in the past.

EQUIPMENT & GEAR

AUGUST 2017 WEB: GOLFNEWS.CO.UK/EQUIPMENT

KNOCK ‘EM IN MALLET PUTTER SHOWCASE

CONTENTS TRIED & TESTED: PING’S NEW G400 DRIVER PRO SHOP: NEW GEAR FROM ECCO, SRIXON AND ODYSSEY EQUIPMENT NEWS THE GEAR EFFECT: WHAT’S IN THE BAG OF THE LATEST WINNERS ON TOUR

[58] AUGUST 2017 | NEWS

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

EQUIPMENT NEWS

THE GEAR EFFECT WHAT THE WINNERS WERE PLAYING ON TOUR JUSTIN THOMAS

TRIED & TESTED:

US PGA CHAMPIONSHIP DRIVER: Titleist 917D2 (8.5)

PING G400 DRIVER THE G400 DRIVER breaks the trend for big-headed drivers, with the head shrunk to 445cc, against a maximum permissible volume of 460cc. It’s barely noticeable, especially due to the muted colour scheme, but this small, but significant decrease has been proven to increase clubhead speed through improved aerodynamics, while also raising the MOI higher than any previous Ping driver.

Available in standard, LST (low spin), and the SFT (straight flight) heads, which can be loft adjusted +/- 1 degree, each features a titanium forged face, which is 6% thinner than that used in the G30 driver, 9% lighter, and flexes 16% more to increase ball speed by up to 2mph.

Weight removed from these areas is repositioned low and back in the sole using

a high-density tungsten weight. This increases MOI, and results in tighter shot dispersion. A more streamlined crown, with more prominent turbulators, reduces drag by 15% to further boost clubhead speed.

The standard shaft offering boasts a counterbalanced design which features more mass in the head end to increase energy transfer, while a copper paint finish cleverly transitions to nearly black to at address. Ping has added a 45.25-inch ‘tour’ shaft to the standard 45.75inch offering, which might be a solid choice for those players wishing to find more fairways and sacrifice a few yards.

Testing the G400 against a G30 with the same specifications, yielded some impressive results, with the G400 knocking it, on average, five

FAIRWAY WOODS: Titleist 917F2 (15), Titleist 915Fd (18) IRONS: Titleist 716 CB (4), Titleist 718 MB (5-9) WEDGES: Titleist Vokey SM5 (52, 56); Titleist Vokey SM6 (60)

yards further than the G30 from my 94mph swing, although I expect those with 100mphplus swings may be able to crank out a few extra yards. The head felt exceptionally stable, and my bad shots with the G400 flew a lot straighter than misfires from the G30, yielding a significantly tighter dispersion.

I liked the reworking of the crown design, which gives it a more streamlined look at address, and the overall feel and sound – which is far less ‘tingy’ than previous models – and confidence that it inspires, are certainly beyond anything I’ve previously experienced with a G driver. Even Lee Westwood, who has been grimly clinging on to his G10 for the last half dozen years, has been persuaded by his launch figures to put the G400 in his bag, which speaks volumes about the performance benefits that this club offers the complete spectrum of golfers, providing you get fitted for the right model. £389, PING.COM

PUTTER: Scotty Cameron by Titleist Futura X5 BALL: Titleist Pro V1x

JHONATTAN VEGAS RBC CANADIAN OPEN DRIVER: TaylorMade M2 (10.5) FAIRWAY WOODS: Nike Vapor Speed (15, 19) IRONS: Mizuno MP-4 (3-PW) WEDGES: Titleist Vokey Design prototype (54, 60) PUTTER: Scotty Cameron Newport 2 GSS BALL: Titleist Pro V1

HIDEKI MATSUYAMA WGC-BRIDGESTONE INVITATIONAL DRIVER: Callaway Great Big Bertha (9) FAIRWAY WOOD: TaylorMade M2 2017 (15) HYBRID: Honma TW727 (19) IRONS: Srixon Z 945 (4-PW) WEDGES: Cleveland 588 RTX 2.0 (52, 56, 60) PUTTER: TaylorMade TP Mullen BALL: Srixon Z-Star XV

JORDAN SMITH EUROPEAN OPEN DRIVER: TaylorMade M1 440 FAIRWAY WOODS: TaylorMade M2 Tour

SHOT SCOPE V2 WATCH RAISES THE STAKES FOR PERFORMANCE TRACKING

MOTOCADDY ROLLS OUT NEW PUSH TROLLEY RANGE

SHOT SCOPE HAS UNVEILED details of its groundbreaking new V2 model, which combines advanced GPS technology with automatic performance tracking.

MOTOCADDY HAS EXPANDED its push trolley range with the introduction of three new models incorporating new design and performance features. A total of five Motocaddy push trolleys are now available, with the new P360, Cube and P1 models being added to an upgraded version of the S1 Lite and the M1 Lite.

Available to pre-order now, Shot Scope V2 builds upon the success of the company’s automatic club recognition technology and detailed performance statistics by also providing accurate front/ middle/back GPS yardages.

Performance statistics of this nature have previously only been available to Tour players, however V2 uses Shot Scope’s proprietary course mapping data to bring the same level of detail to the palm of the everyday golfer.

Shot Scope’s engineers have developed V2 with three modes to meet the needs of every golfer – GPS, PRO and GPS+TRACK. In both GPS and GPS+TRACK modes, the LCD screen displays distances to the front, middle and back of the green from the golfer’s real-time position. Distances to hazards will be released in a software update later this year.

Performance tracking is activated in both PRO and GPS+TRACK modes. The device works in the background to collect over 100 Tour-level statistics, broken down into five areas: clubs, tee shots, approaches, short game and putting.

The P360 (£169.99) offers a 360° rotating front wheel with quick-lock capability; a one-step folding mechanism; an adjustable height control handle; a foot-operated parking brake; quick-release wheels; a folding lock; adjustable bag supports and the brand’s innovative EASILOCK bag-totrolley connection system found on all Motocaddy trolleys, removing the need for a lower bag strap.

Shot Scope V2 will retail for £225, however a special pre-order price of £189 is available until October 1, at which date the product will ship.

Golfers can pay a deposit to secure their purchase today, and pay in full nearer shipping time.

The Cube (£149.99) push cart folds down over 45% smaller than traditional push trolleys to fit into the smallest of car boots. Aside from the rotating front wheel, it features the same performance-enhancing benefits and storage compartments as the P360.

For orders, or to find out more, visit www.shotscope.com.

The P1 (£129.99) can be folded up or down in one simple step. It offers

(15, 19) UTILITY: Titleist 718 T-MB IRONS: Mizuno MP18 (3-PW) WEDGES: Titleist Vokey SM6 PUTTER: TaylorMade Spider Tour Black BALL: Titleist Pro V1

BRYSON DECHAMBEAU JOHN DEERE CLASSIC DRIVER: Cobra King LTD Pro (8.5) FAIRWAY WOOD: Cobra King LTD (14.5) IRONS: Cobra King Utility Iron (18), Cobra King Forged One Length (4-PW) WEDGES: Cobra King V Grind (50, 56, 60) PUTTER: SIK Kinematics prototype

friction-free oversized wheels; footoperated brake; adjustable handle height and quick-release wheels. The new P1 also includes all of the same integrated accessory compartments for balls, tees, drinks and scorecard as the P360 and Cube.

The S1 Lite has also received an extensive upgrade and now includes a stylish soft-touch ergonomic handle and the exclusive Quikfold mechanism, enabling golfers to fold or unfold the trolley in under five seconds.

The new models are available with a graphite frame and red or blue trim options. The S1 Lite (£119.99) and M1 Lite (£149.99) are both available now in black or alpine finishes.

BALL: Bridgestone B330

JORDAN SPIETH OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP DRIVER: Titleist 915D2 (9.5°) FAIRWAY WOOD: Titleist 915F (15°) HYBRID: Titleist 816H2 (21°) IRONS: Titleist 716 T-MB (4), Titleist 716 AP2 (5-9) WEDGES: Titleist Vokey Design SM6 (46°, 52°, 56°, 60°) PUTTER: Scotty Cameron 009 Prototype BALL: Titleist Pro V1x

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

EQUIPMENT | AUGUST 2017 [59]

CALLAWAY CHROME SOFT PROVES GOLD STANDARD FOR GOLF NEWS READERS

H

LO GS SW INDL

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AND DOVE RCOU undreds of golfers RT GO LF CLUB at clubs across the the request for the balls, South of England said: “Our Captain’s Day got to experience the was really enhanced by performance benefits players being given the of Callaway Golf’s new chance to play with the Chrome Soft golf balls last new Chrome Soft ball. With month, following a joint so many in play, we had to promotion with make sure that we all marked Golf News. them differently. There Clubs such as Cooden were lots of complimentary Beach, Copthorne, comments about its feel and Harwich and Dovercourt, performance, and I know that Epsom, Harleyford, John was delighted to win the Hever Castle, event, and, of Horsham, Kingswood, course, score a ORCH AR DLEI GH GO LF CLUB Orchardleigh, Romsey, hole-in-one with Stoke Park, Walton it. I was told that Heath, Weald of Kent and Worthing, it was a soft draw answered the request for testers with a shipment of into the green 40 two-ball packs of the Chrome Soft and Chrome that rolled into the Soft X balls to hand out to golfers taking part in centre of the cup!” monthly medals, swindles, mid-week roll ups and The Chrome Soft charity events. also saw action on Copthorne Golf Club used them for its Captain’s the Captain’s Day Day, with held at Horsham members asked Golf in West Sussex. to make a small Director of Golf Chris donation toclub Purton handed out captain Paul Delaney’s the new balls on the chosen charity, Riding for first tee, and reported the Disabled, in return plenty of positive feedback from members on the day. for a Chrome Soft. That Carl Jobling, who runs the LOGS Swindle at Harwich decision certainly paid and Dovercourt Golf Club, handed out both balls to his off for club member swindle members, and reported many players were John Pyne, who not only impressed with its ‘premium performance at such an won the Captain’s Day affordable price’.

COPTHORNE GOLF CLUB competition with 41 Steve McDonald, organiser of the British Airways Golf points, but also bagged a hole-in-one on Copthorne’s 15th Society, which meets up once a month, handed out his hole using his new Chrome Soft ball. supply during it meeting at Thorney Park Golf Club. He Copthorne member David Vearncombe, who put in said: “All of our members who played on the day were

HAT’S OFF: CHROME SOFTS SAW ACTION AT WALTON HEATH’S SATURDAY ROLL-UP

given a sleeve, and the overwhelming feedback across the handicap spectrums was about how well it performed around the greens, with plenty of spin and feel. It also held its own in the wind, and offered plenty of distance off the driver and long irons. It certainly gave us all something to talk about after the round, other than the scores!”

The Callaway Chrome Soft and Chrome Soft X cost £32.99 for a box of 12. For more details visit www.callawaygolf.com

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[60] AUGUST 2017 | EQUIPMENT

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MIZUNO MP-18 IRONS

CLEVELAND CBX WEDGE £109, CLEVELANDGOLF.CO.UK The CBX Wedge is squarely aimed at the large section of the golfing population who play with forgiving cavity-back irons, which, according to industry figures, is around 85% of us.

Designed to be easier to hit than bladed tour wedges, while providing more spin and versatility than set-matching wedges, the CBK is modeled to look, feel, and play like game improvement irons.

Thus the CBK wedges, which are available in lofts from 46-60 degrees, feature a cavity back design, which moves weight to the edges of the clubhead to add stability, while Cleveland’s milled Rotex face grips the surface of the golf ball to deliver tour-level spin. A dual V-sole grind offers more forgiving turf interaction, and delivers precise shot-making control from a variety of lies.

£135-£150 PER CLUB, GOLF.MIZUNOEUROPE.COM Mizuno has launched three new irons as part of its new MP-18 range, which is specifically aimed at low handicap players. The Muscleback MP-18 is a throwback to the muscle-backs of Mizuno's past, featuring a progressively shorter blade length, a thin, cambered top line, and steep progression into sharp, compact wedges. Made from a single billet of pure mild carbon steel, and grain flow forged, these irons are manufactured to offer precise feedback and plenty of feel. The Split Cavity model is a compact cavity back featuring a slightly wider, cambered sole which brings a greater degree of playability than the muscle-back, although thin, tapered top lines, short head lengths and smaller wedges mean this is still very much a tour players’ iron. Compared to the muscle-back, the heads are 0.5mm taller and the top lines 1mm thicker. The pitching wedge is also smaller than the other irons in the set. The MMC iron boasts a forgiving, multi-metal construction, which combines 8g of titanium and 20g of tungsten sealed within a carbon steel head. This increases the stability of the head through impact, and increases the size of the sweet spot. The short irons feature a dual-metal design, with the absence of the tungsten weight found in the longer irons keeps the scoring irons more workable.

PRO SHOP

YOUR GUIDE TO THE LATEST GEAR

BIG MAX TERRAIN

COBRA F-MAX WOODS £229, COBRAGOLF.CO.UK The next evolution in Cobra’s Max range sees the use of an ultra-lightweight shaft combined with reduced swing weight, to promote improved clubhead speed and greater distance for players with moderate swing speeds. The face is made from forged titanium, while an internal weighting positioned near the heel encourages a more forgiving, higher, straighter ball flight.

Available with a straight neck or offset hosel, the F-Max comes fitted with Lamkin’s REL 360 midsize grip as standard to improve comfort, while a black PVD finish gives the 460cc clubhead a muted, unfussy look at address.

It is available in standard and offset models in 10.5° and 11.5° for men, and 15° for women. There is also a matching set of fairway woods (16°, 20°, 23°, £169), and hybrids (19°, 22°, 25°, 28° and 31°, £149).

£799, BIGMAXGOLF.COM Better known for its range of push trolleys, Big Max has now launched a new electric model – the Terrain. Boasting a whisper-quiet 230w motor, and a lithium battery as standard, it features a reinforced differential and automatic downhill braking for constant speeds. This combines with differential steering and robust construction to safely navigate the fairways whatever the gradient or surface level.

The Terrain also features a colour display for speedometer, battery status and distance control, while the folding mechanism enables it to be packed away to fit in any car boot with ease.

The height-adjustable handle has a storage facility for scorecard, GPS or phone, and also houses an optional solar charger to keep devices powered up. Other optional accessories include a seat, a drinks holder and an umbrella holder.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

EQUIPMENT | AUGUST 2017

[61]

ODYSSEY O-WORKS RED PUTTERS £179-£199, ODYSSEYGOLF.COM Odyssey has expanded its O-Works range of putters to include a series of all-red models in response to requests from its roster of tour players.

The O-Works putters feature a face insert that pairs a stainless steel microhinge plate moulded into a thermoplastic feel layer, enabling the tiny hinges on the surface to lift the ball into a better roll at impact.

The technology makes the putter face more flexible, meaning all golfers will see increased topspin and roll to their putts, even with a less-thanperfect putting stroke.

The red model is available in many of Odyssey’s most popular head shapes, including the iconic 2-Ball, #7, R-Line, V-Line Fang – and a new #7S model. This short slant neck version of the #7 provides more toe hang, which has become a popular setup for tour pros.

ECCO CASUAL HYBRID £110, GOLF.ECCO.COM Danish footwear brand Ecco has added a stylish new model to its Casual Hybrid range of golf shoes for Spring/Summer 2017. The uppers on this new model are made from a luxurious hand-treated Fornello leather, which is treated with Ecco’s water repellent Hydromax finish.

Available in either whisky brown or denim blue, they boast a number of technologies, including ‘Freedom Fit’, which mixes a snug heel setting with a roomier forefoot area that allows toes to move naturally, while the E-DTS outsole has molded traction bars made from durable TPU that provide hundreds of traction angles for superior grip. Golfers also have the option of a special leather inlay sole that can be added or removed for a more comfortable fit.

The Casual Hybrid is made with a direct injection process that bonds the upper and outsole unit, creating a one-piece shoe without the use of glue or stitching.

SRIXON AD333 BALL £22 FOR 12, SRIXON.CO.UK The latest version of the UK’s best selling two-piece ball features a new lowercompression core, a new outer coating, and a more aerodynamic dimple pattern – all of which combine to deliver longer, more accurate driving, better iron control, and improved greenside spin.

The lower compression core features variable stiffness to deliver increased feel and exceptional distance on every shot, while the new Spin Skin coating contains fewer bonding points to generate more consistent spin, while a new 338 dimple pattern reduces drag to maximise distance.

Available in white and yellow, it goes on sale on September 15.

BUSHNELL EXCEL GPS WATCH £199, BUSHNELLGOLF.CO.UK Bushnell’s new Excel watch has been designed to give golfers the key information they need at a glance, whilst full integration via Bluetooth with the company’s new Golf App makes it more than a simple distance device.

The Excel has a sleek design with a full front optical mounted colour display that automatically adjusts for brightness and gives easy to read front/centre/back distances plus up to four hazard distances per hole.

The device comes pre-loaded with over 35,000 courses and its battery will last over three rounds in GPS mode before needing a charge.

Bluetooth integration to a smartphone means the user can receive call alerts, messages and calendar notifications straight to the watch. This technology also hooks it up to the Bushnell Golf App, which enables golfers to book tee times, pay, confirm, and set tee time notifications. The app also gives the option for 3D course flyovers for a bird'seye view of the hole.

A ‘Swing Pro’ function enables golfers to monitor their swing speed and tempo, while it also features a pedometer and odometer. It is available in a choice of black, charcoal or white colours.

FOOTJOY HYPERFLEX II £145, FOOTJOY.CO.UK FootJoy has released a limited edition run of black Hyperflex II golf shoes in celebration of Jimmy Walker’s 2016 PGA Championship win. Inspired by the American player’s preference to wear all black head-to-toe in competition, the FJ footwear team developed a special ‘blacked out’ Hyperflex II model that will available in selected pro shops, and via the FJ website. It is available in additional colours, including red/white/blue, silver/white, black/white, and blue/silver.

[62] AUGUST 2017 | EQUIPMENT

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

EQUIPMENT NEWS

■ TOUR COACH DENIS PUGH GIVES THE CALLAWAY JAILBREAK PRIZE WINNERS A LESSON AT STOKE PARK

CALLAWAY HOST ‘JAILBREAK’ GOLF DAYS AT ST GEORGE’S HILL AND STOKE PARK

SWITCH UP YOUR GAME WITH BUSHNELL’S TOUR V4 SHIFT BUSHNELL GOLF’S NEW Tour V4 Shift laser rangefinder features all-new Slope-Switch technology, which enables golfers to easily toggle between measuring normal distances and those compensated for changes in elevation. With a flick of the logo switch on the side of the device, the user can move between tournament legal yardages and those that utilise Bushnell’s Slope Technology to provide even more accurate distances.

In addition to Slope-Switch Technology, the Tour V4 Shift is faster than its Tour V3 predecessor, 30 per cent smaller, and more ergonomically designed to increase ease and accuracy when acquiring yardages.

The device also includes JOLT Technology, providing the golfer with the confidence that they have locked onto their desired target. Providing short vibrating bursts, JOLT technology assures the golfer that Bushnell’s PinSeeker Technology has isolated the target and locked onto the flag.

Accurate to within one yard, and, with capable of locking onto a flag from 400 yards, the Tour V4 Shift comes with a two-year warranty and has a suggested retail price of £339.

CALLAWAY BUYS TRAVISMATHEW CLOTHING BRAND CALLAWAY GOLF has continued its expansion into new golf markets following the acquisition of American men’s golf and lifestyle clothing brand Travis Mathew for $125m.

Founded in 2007, the California-based company currently boasts Keegan Bradley, Luke list, Chris Kirk, Patrick Cantlay and Stuart Appleby among its brand ambassadors on the PGA Tour. The company will continue to operate out of its Huntington Beach headquarters after the sale has been finalised.

"We are very excited about this acquisition," said Callaway President and CEO Chip Brewer. "With its golf heritage, culture of product excellence,

and double-digit growth in the golf and lifestyle apparel business, Travis Mathew is a great fit with our business, brands, culture and our strategy to grow in areas tangential to golf. We are looking forward to working with the TravisMathew management team to maximise this brand’s growth potential."

A

select group of golfers were treated to a round of golf at the exclusive St George’s Hill Golf Club in Surrey last month in the company of European Tour star James Morrison.

Morrison, who is attached to the club, accompanied the three golfers – Rob Trotman, Nick Rose and Callum Mitcham around the stunning Surrey heathland course as a prize for taking part in a competition organised by Callaway Golf to promote its new Great Big Bertha Epic driver.

The social media campaign was launched with the hashtag ‘Jailbreak’, which refers to the design of the Epic driver, which features two vertical metal bars inside the clubhead that support the face. Golfers were asked to submit a single sentence explaining why they needed a ‘Jailbreak moment’ to escape the daily drudgery of life, with the best responses being rewarded with a golfing day out with a Callaway ambassador.

Callum Mitcham’s winning entry read: ‘I need a #Jailbreak from cleaning and sorting out bills after a long weekend of work and missing the links’, while Nick Rose came up with the line, ‘I need a #jailbreak from my desk at work. This would be an amazing experience where I

can learn, grow in confidence and feel inspired by Callaway and by James. I can then take this to my own game to help achieve my golfing ambitions.’

Other Jailbreak days saw Ryder Cup star Thomas Pieters join three lucky winners for an event in Belgium, while legendary tour coach Denis Pugh hosted a day at Stoke Park Golf Club in Buckinghamshire for three other winners as part of the campaign – Glen Blackford, Denis, Mbachi Nkana and David Long.

Blackford’s winning entry went, ‘I need a #jailbreak as I’m being outdriven by my 14-year-old son, and so a lesson with Denis would be perfect’, while Nkana’s pleading to be given a ‘#jailbreak from gardening and household maintenance’, also fell on sympathetic ears.

The three winners’ day out at St George’s Hill was caught on camera, with a 90-second summary of the day available to watch on Vimeo (vimeo.com/228821549).

Callaway has further activities planned under the #Jailbreak campaign for the rest of the year, so golfers are being asked to keep a look out for details on its Twitter feed, @CallawayGolfEU

SKY’S THE LIMIT FOR ZEN GREEN THE COMPUTER-CONTROLLED ZEN GREEN stage will regularly feature on Sky Sports’ future golf coverage, after making its debut at the Open Championship.

Zen Green stage is a digitally-adjusted playing surface which can be used for putting and full shots. It was embedded in Sky Sports’ Open Zone at Birkdale, allowing presenters to demonstrate breaking putts and shots from sloping lies.

“Imagine a future where you’re watching live coverage of a golf event, and can immediately recreate the exact putt you’ve just seen on the TV,” said co-inventor Nick Middleton of Zen Green Technology. “That’s possible now, with the Green Stage. Its rapid transformations add an element of uncertainty, posing addictive new putting challenges, which fire the imagination. We think it supplies a major piece of golf’s DNA, which has been missing, until now, from indoor golf.

He added: “It was fascinating to work with the Sky Sports’ golf team at Royal Birkdale this year,” he continued.

“They are world-class innovators when it comes to TV sports coverage, and they brilliantly realised the creative potential of the Zen Green Stage at the Open Championship. In its new home, the Sky Sports’ golf studio, we hope that TV viewers will enjoy watching presenters use the Zen Green Stage in all sorts of imaginative ways, bringing the sport to life like never before. It will be a theatre of new experiences, and what you have seen on Sky Sports to date is just the beginning.”

■ JAILBREAK WINNERS ENJOYED A ROUND AT ST GEORGE'S HILL WITH TOUR PRO JAMES MORRISON

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE | AUGUST 2017 [63]

1. QUALITY Chervò uses only the finest quality materials, carefully sourced from around the world, to ensure every garment is made to the highest possible specification. The Verona-based company has long been highly regarded in the industry and now enjoys an enviable standing.

All you have to do is touch the fabric to appreciate the undeniable quality, and that is just one of the factors why Chervò has become a major leader across much of Europe, in countries such as Austria, Germany, Switzerland and Spain, as well as being recognised as one of the most prestigious brands in the Asian nations of Japan, China and South Korea. Chervò-Tex is the brand that guarantees the use of specially-made materials for all weathers.

REASONS TO

WEAR

CHERVÒ

2. DESIGN Italy is renowned for its sense of style and elegance with excellent sartorial taste. The fashionable European country is regarded as one of the leaders in the fashion world, as it has always played an important role both traditionally and culturally.

The ‘Made in Italy’ tag is a mark of fashion craftsmanship, of excellence and of creativity. Image has always been important and that is very much evident in every Chervò collection.

5. ENVIRONMENT Chervò is conscious of the environment and its garments proudly bear the Eco-Safe guarantee, ensuring clothing is produced from ecological quality fibres, which are certified according to the registered trademark of the European Union.

There are very strict criteria to meet, and more than 40 aspects of the production cycle are taken into account, guaranteeing the maximum respect for the environment in terms of reducing carbon emissions while being energy and water-efficient. Padded Chervò garments use ‘Happy Goose’ lightweight synthetic flakes, offering the same properties and appearance as a down filling with the ultimate heat retention.

6. CONFIDENCE Self-confidence can be a natural-born trait, yet it can also stem from wearing top-quality clothes, as psychological tests have shown over the years. Science says what we wear can and does affect behaviour, attitude, mood and confidence – a theory called ‘enclothed cognition’. And Chervò’s clothing could offer a confidence booster – a must on the golf course – thanks to its highquality fabric, chic designs and cutting-edge technology.

3. COMFORT Clothing made with such high-quality fabrics and technologies naturally also offers optimum comfort in its various ranges. And the company’s Comfort technology ensures maximum freedom of movement out on the golf course, thanks to its elastic yarns and textiles for perfect fit. The two-way and four-way stretch fabrics add extra flexibility that are highly resistant for added comfort.

7. HISTORY

4. TECHNOLOGY Chervò is a pioneer in the introduction of state-of-the-art technologies within its garments, which guarantees ultimate technical performance in all weather conditions.

Modernised and revolutionised over more than 30 years, the Chervò-Tex designs ensure the ultimate in performance and comfort in every item of clothing.

Chervò has developed a range of cutting-edge technological advanced fabrics such as Dry-Matic, a helical-structured microfibe to guarantee protection against rain, while anti-bacterial treatment prevents unpleasant odours. There are also ground-breaking components to protect against sun, wind and different climates.

To view the latest Chervò collection, visit www.chervo.com

Chervò may seem a relative newcomer to the UK market, but the chic Italian brand has earned world-wide recognition since it was founded by brothers Manfred and Peter Erlacher in 1982. The Italian company’s undeniable use of quality and elegant designs saw it quickly become a major success in the Alpine Arc countries due to its fine skiwear. Chervò made the seamless move into the golf apparel market in the early 1990s by revolutionising the sport’s dress code, and has since gone from strength to strength.

[64] AUGUST 2017 | EQUIPMENT

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

MAKE IT A

MALLET KNOCK ‘EM DEAD WITH A HIGH MOI

MALLET PUTTER

PING VAULT £279, ping.com The Vault Series features two mallets, the Oslo and the Bergen. Aimed at golfers with a straight or slightly arced putting stroke, both heads weigh 365g and feature grooves that are milled directly onto the face to improve feel and distance control.

The True-Roll milled pattern varies in depth

and pitch across the face, which speeds up off-centre impacts. They feature a thicker, softer 68g Ping Pistol grip that naturally fits into the palm and fingertips and help relaxes grip pressure. They are available in slate or platinum finishes, with adjustable shaft lengths.

SCOTTY CAMERON FUTURA £335-£355, titleist.co.uk There are no fewer than seven mallet designs in Scotty Cameron’s new Futura collection. Each has a wrap-around face-sole construction milled from lighter aluminium that moves weight back and to the perimeter to increase the putters’ resistance to twisting. A built-in vibration dampening system connects the face-sole component

to the stainless steel frame, producing a more responsive feel. Each features two removeable steel sole weights, stepless steel shafts and a Black Matador mid-size grip. Models range from a classic mallet (5CB, 5MB) to the super-high MOI 7M, which features back wings and a rear steel crossbar for added forgiveness.

ODYSSEY O-WORKS £179-£199, odysseygolf.com Odyssey’s microhinge insert encourages the ball to roll forward sooner to help it stay on line and improve distance control. It does this with the help of an elastomer insert with a stainless steel surface that features microscopic individual hinges that flex on impact,

TAYLORMADE TP COLLECTION £199-£215 taylormadegolf.com TP putters feature a new Pure Roll insert made from a soft polymer with 45° grooves that aid a soft feel and smoother forward roll. The Mullen and Berwick are the mallet options. The former is compact head with two sightlines on the back cavity

and a short S hosel that allows for a slight toe hang, while the latter has a more traditional rounded shape with a thicker topline and single sightline. Both come with either a Lamkin sink rubber grip or a SuperStroke 1.0 GT pistol grip.

LYNX MEMPHIS £99, lynxgolf.co.uk lifting the ball to impart topspin and produce a better roll. High-contrast alignment, with a red highlight line, aids set up. The nine-piece range, which is available in traditional chrome or dark red finish, features five mallets and four blades, plus a tank mallet.

Designed by the late putting guru Harold Swash, the 'Swash by Lynx' range features four models engineered with technology and looks based directly on Swash's expertise. Each model features trapezoid-shaped grooves milled into the gold-coloured aluminium face insert which is designed to produce a

smoother, more consistent roll and counter the effects of off-centre strikes. A high-contrast gold stripe runs the length of the head, set against the matt black finish, for easier alignment, while a tetrahedron-shaped visual aid on the rear help golfers position their eyes directly over the ball.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

EQUIPMENT | AUGUST 2017 [65]

BETTINARDI STUDIO STOCK SERIES £309, bettinardi.com The Studio Stock Series incorporates F.I.T (Feel Impact Technology) face milling, where material is removed from the face in order to produce a softer feel at impact. Milled from soft carbon steel, the #16 is a semi-circular shape with a degree of perimeter weighting. The face

delivers a muted, crisp feel at impact and suits players looking for responsive feel.

A bronze finish eliminates glare, while a mercury grey finish is also available in other mallet and blade designs, including an Arm Lock model.

PING SIGMA G £175-£199, ping.com The Sigma range features an anodized aluminum face supported by a resilient insert made from a material commonly used in the midsoles of running shoes. Known for its elasticity, it offers lightweight, high-energy return for a soft, yet responsive feel. Ping’s True

ODYSSEY WHITE HOT RX £129, odysseygolf.com A dual-layer, injected-moulded insert has a softer core made of elastomer to enhance feel, ball speed and sound. The oval Metal-X roll pattern and a paint coating on the face improves roll.

TAYLORMADE SPIDER TOUR £269, taylormadegolf.com Originally designed for Dustin Johnson, the new Spider Tour mid-size mallet features an all-black body, all-black shaft, and a removed sight line for clean alignment. The head comprises 13 different pieces, including a heavy steel frame that bolsters the hollow aluminum body.

There are two insert options: Surlyn for a softer feel, or milled aluminum for a sharper click.

TaylorMade’s Pure Roll insert, which combines 45° grooves with a softer polymer, delivers more topspin and better forward roll to get the ball on line faster and keep it on line longer.

CLEVELAND GOLF HUNTINGDON BEACH £89, clevelandgolf.com Roll Face Technology pattern varies in depth and covers the entire face to ensure putts roll at consistent speeds, wherever they are struck on the face, for better distance control. The range features 16 head options in either a platinum or black nickel finish, as well as two grip options.

Set to offer golfers a soft feel on the greens without the premium price tag, the Huntington Beach Collection of putters

by Cleveland is made up of three designs – 1, 4 and 6 – each with a precision milled face that has a coarse, diamond-shaped

milling pattern four times deeper than the previous generation of Cleveland putters.

The deeper milling pattern softens feel at impact while increasing friction with the ball for a truer, more consistent roll off the putter face.

RIFE SWITCHBACK £149, rife.com The Switchback comes with two sets of adjustable weights placed on the back of the putter, which creates heads weighing 355g or 375g. Golfers can change the head and swingweight to accommodate their stroke or the speed of the greens. It features

a double bend shaft, and is face balanced, which will suit golfes with a straight-back, straight-through stroke. It also utilises Rife's Roll Groove Technology to generate immediate forward roll and more consistent distance control.

[66] AUGUST 2017 | FEATURE

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

WHY AN ARTIFICIAL PUTTING GREEN IS A MUST FOR ALL GOLFERS Costing as little as £2,000, all golfers should consider installing a Home Golf Design putting & chipping green

T

hanks to the UK’s shockingly inconsistent weather, keeping a lawn looking tidy at any time of the year is a tough job, and even when it does resemble the Centre Court at Wimbledon, grass is just, well, grass at the end of the day, and good for very little except looking at, interspersed with the tiresome jobs of weeding and cutting.

Which is why more and more people are choosing to give up the national obsession with firing up the Flymo every Sunday afternoon in favour of pulling out the putter for a spot of practice on the latest generation of artificial greens.

While a high percentage of Tour players have converted their enormous estates into full-scale replicas of the greens at Augusta, there are also plenty of regular golfers that are choosing to dig up

their smaller domestic lawns and replace them with something altogether more interesting to look at and fun to play on.

Thanks to massive leaps in technology, the current ‘crop’ of artificial golf greens is far removed from the stuff you used to see behind the fruit and veg in your local greengrocers, and more akin to the carpetlike putting surfaces you’ll find on a championship golf course.

And while a tour-standard setup can be expensive, a more simple design, featuring a few carefully constructed holes, can be an affordable, yet equally effective option, for the amateur golfer.

This is the type of customer that Home Golf Designs is currently working with to fulfill their domestic dream layouts. Set up ten years ago by experienced greenkeeper Andy Brown, who enjoyed spells at Nizels and Croham Hurst, Kent-based Home Golf Greens aims to

BEFORE

BEFORE

BEFORE

AFTER

AFTER

AFTER

HOME GOLF DESIGN CLIENT TESTIMONIALS “I LOVE PRACTISING ON MY HOME GOLF DESIGN GREEN, THANKS SO MUCH” ANDY SULLIVAN, EUROPEAN TOUR PLAYER

“BRILLIANT! A SHADY SPOT WITH NO GRASS HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED INTO A GOLFERS’ PARADISE!”

“CLEAN AND PROFESSIONAL. NOT ONLY CAN I HONE MY GAME AT HOME, BUT IT'S GREAT FUN WHEN WE HAVE FRIENDS AROUND”

“POLITE, FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL. MY SON IS OUT THERE ALL HOURS PRACTISING AND PLAYING WITH HIS FRIENDS”

MR K.WANG, WOKING

MR L.SCOTT, BEXLEY

MR N.BULGIN, CHIDDINGSTONE

meet the needs of the keen golfer looking to sharpen up their short game skills in the comfort of their own home.

Rather than driving to their local club every time they want to put in a bit of work on their lag putting or greenside chipping, owners of a Home Golf Design green can simply open the back door and, hey presto, they’re on the first hole and sinking putts for fun.

One of Home Golf Design’s earliest customers was three-time European Tour winner Andy Sullivan, who had a three-hole course built in his back garden in the Midlands. While the company can’t take full responsibility for Sullivan’s impressive performances on tour, having somewhere to practise his putting stroke at home clearly hasn’t harmed his form on the greens as he builds towards a potential Ryder Cup debut this autumn.

“While it’s nice to work with tour players, and those with sizeable budgets, most of our projects are on a much smaller scale, where customers are looking for a few straightforward holes to practise on,” says Brown. “But no matter how big or small the project is, our attention to detail is exactly the same. We work closely with the client through every step of the process to make sure they get exactly what they want, and work within their budgets to achieve their ambitions.”

The son of a golf professional, and with experience as a greenkeeper, Brown prides himself on knowing the demands golfers have when it comes to replicating greens, as well as what is required to landscape holes into a domestic setting, where greens are often competing with the other requirements of a traditional garden.

“Home owners don’t want a green just to be simply plonked down in the back garden,” says Brown. “So we work closely with the client to make sure it blends in with what is already there, and, if required, carry out sympathetic landscaping to ensure that it doesn’t dominate the setting.”

Often taking less than a week to install, and requiring next to no maintenance, other than brushing off the leaves in autumn, a Home Golf Design green is a great addition to any golfer’s garden. And with chipping-length surfaces and custom-designed bunkers available to surround the putting green, as well as full-size practice driving nets, golfers can work on all aspects of their game at any time of year.

So whether you’re looking to win next year’s club championship, set your children on the road to Open glory, smarten up your golf club, or simply want to have somewhere to challenge your mates to a few holes over a drink, a Home Golf Design putting green should be your very next step.

For more details on Home Golf Design's range of artificial greens, or to book a site visit, call 07885 673258, email info@homegolfdesigns.co.uk or visit www.homegolfdesigns.co.uk For the latest projects, follow Home Golf Designs on Twitter @homegolfdesigns

YOUR GUIDE TO GOLFING TRIPS AT HOME AND ABROAD

CAPITAL CHOICE

TRAVEL AND BREAKS

AUGUST 2017 WEB: GOLFNEWS.CO.UK/TRAVEL

PLAYING GOLF ON

LISBON’S BLUE COAST

GOLF IN WALES SUPPLEMENT

ALSO IN THIS MONTH'S TRAVEL: ME AND MY TRAVELS WITH RONAN KEATING SARAH STIRK SINGS THE PRAISES OF COURSE DESIGNER KYLE PHILLIPS PLAYING IN LOMBARDY, ITALY ALL THE LATEST TRAVEL NEWS

[68] AUGUST 2017 | TRAVEL

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

HIT ENGLAND’S ATLANTIC LINKS THIS AUTUMN W

ith free-draining fairways and firm greens, the stunning links that line the north coast of Devon and Cornwall come into their own in the autumn months, when inland courses are beginning to soften up.

The six courses that form the Atlantic Links trail along the dramatic backdrop of the north Atlantic coastline boast a combined age of almost 700 years, with both Burnham & Berrow and St Enodoc founded in 1890, Saunton East in 1897, with the younger members, Trevose and Saunton West, having been established in 1925 and 1937 respectively.

Royal North Devon, or Westward Ho!, as

it is fondly known, is not only the senior citizen of the Atlantic Links, but is also England’s oldest golf course. Indeed this unique links course, set on common land on which livestock still graze today, has hardly changed in 150 years and to play it is like taking a step back in time and seeing how golf was played in Victorian England.

The club is steeped in history: it was on this course that JH Taylor, born in the village of Northam that overlooks the course, started his career as a caddie. He went on to win five Open Championships and formed one third of the great triumvirate, with Harry Vardon and James

Braid, who dominated the game for some 30 years. The club honoured Taylor with club presidency in 1957, and his portrait and some of his clubs are still proudly displayed in the clubhouse. In fact thanks to the club’s heritage, the clubhouse is a veritable treasure trove of golf memorabilia, second only to that owned

by The R&A. Breaks start from £340 per person to play three courses, rising to £723 for all six courses, and include all tee time and accommodation reservations.

For more details and bookings, visit www.atlantic-links.co.uk.

■ 16TH AT ST ENODOC (PHOTO: STUART MORLEY)

HUNT OUT CELTIC MANOR’S HUNTER LODGES G

roups of golfers looking to make a stay at Celtic Manor even more memorable should consider booking one of the luxury lodges that overlook the Twenty Ten Course at the popular Welsh resort.

The luxury lodges provide the best of both worlds – a private home-from-home in the peace and tranquility of the South Wales countryside, yet with Celtic Manor’s five-star amenities on their doorstep.

The Hunter Lodges enjoy views of the Twenty Ten Ryder Cup

JOIN THE PARTY AT THE FIRST GOLF NORTH WALES FESTIVAL

G

olfers looking to get away for an endof-season long weekend and play a selection of the finest golf courses in Wales, are invited to take part in the first Golf North Wales Festival.

The three-day festival takes place from September 29 until October 1, and is being held on four of the region’s finest courses – Conwy, Maesdu, North Wales, and Rhuddan.

Competitors for the betterball pairs Stableford event will play Conwy, venue for the 2020 Curtis Cup, on the Friday; and a choice of either Maesdu or North Wales on the Satuday; before the final round at Rhuddlan Golf Club on Sunday.

The opening round will be followed by a drinks reception and dinner at the

Llandudno Bay Hotel, while the final round will be followed by a carvery dinner and prize presentation. The price for the festival is £110 per person.

For further information and bookings, call 01492 531731 or email golf@nwt.co.uk.

2017 Golf Breaks from £85

CORNWALL GOLF BREAKS Summer 2017

1 Night Golf Break including Bed & Breakfast plus 2 Rounds of Golf starts from just £85pp!!

Book NOW for 2017 with only a 10% deposit For further information, please call Club Reception on 01566 86903 or email: reservations@trethornegolfclub.com

Trethorne Golf Club Kennards House Launceston Cornwall PL15 8QE

01566

86903

www.trethornegolfclub.com

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

TRAVEL | AUGUST 2017 [69]

IT PAYS TO STAY-ANDPLAY AT PRINCE’S T

he luxury golf lodge at Prince’s Golf Club in Kent is proving a huge hit with golfers looking to play some of Kent’s finest links courses, including Prince’s itself, neighbouring Royal St George’s, Royal Cinque Ports, and many others along the coast.

Capable of hosting up to 48 guests, The Lodge is located by the fifth green at Prince’s and enjoys fantastic views over the 27-hole facility, St George’s, and Pegwell Bay to the white cliffs at Ramsgate.

It is separated into 12 individual apartments, with each featuring two twin bedrooms, plus en-suite bathroom facilities and a shared lounge. It also boasts its own on-site bar and restaurant, the Brasserie on the Bay, where locally sourced and expertly cooked seasonal menus are available throughout the week.

There are a number of stay-and-play packages on offer, starting from £99pp for one night’s B&B and two midweek rounds at Prince’s from November 1, or £160pp up until October 31. Room-only prices are £105 for a single room, £135 for a double/twin, and £270 for a two-bedroom apartment, with full English breakfast included in the package.

For reservations, visit www.princesgolfclub.co.uk or call 01304 611118.

course and the Usk Valley beyond. Sleeping up to 10 people, the large Scandinavian-style log lodges all have four double or twin bedrooms, spacious dining and living areas, and fitted kitchens.

They also boast outdoor hot tubs and indoor saunas.

Hosting three, four or seven-night stays for guests, the lodges are primarily aimed at the family and leisure market, which is filling Celtic Manor’s 400-bedroom hotel on weekends and during school holidays. The lodges are also designed to appeal to golf groups playing Celtic Manor’s three championship courses, friends on spa breaks, and corporate incentive trips.

Prices start from £237 per person for a three-night stay, including 18 holes on the Twenty Ten, Roman Road and Montgomerie courses, based on eight people sharing a lodge.

For more information, visit www.celtic-manor.com or call 01633 410262.

TheManor House

& Ashbury Hotels

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Oakwood 16th 172 yards, Par 3

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[70] JULY 2017 | COLUMN

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

THANK YOU, MR PHILLIPS Sarah Stirk sings the praises of American golf course designer Kyle Phillips, the mastermind behind of some of the world best new links courses

I SEEM TO HAVE SPENT A LOT OF TIME talking about golf courses designed by Kyle Phillips on Sky Sports over the last few weeks. He has designed some absolute beauties, so I thought it was worth spending some column inches discussing the merits of his work.

First of all, I’ve just come back from hosting the Ricoh Women’s British Open at Kingsbarns. It’s a course that continually receives rave reviews, and hearing the pros’ reactions last week only served to confirm the admiration golfers have for this magnificent Scottish links.

The course opened in 2000, but feels like it’s been around for an eternity, and has quickly earned a reputation as a modern classic. It’s a wonderfully natural track, blending the art of contemporary course design with the rugged simplicity of a traditional Scottish links. The North Sea is visible from 17 of the holes, and the scenery is breathtaking.

Michelle Wie said some of the vistas reminded her of her homeland Hawaii, although there’s a big discrepancy as far as the weather is concerned!

The champion IK Kim said at times it was hard to concentrate because the views were so distracting.

We have seen Kingsbarns in all its beauty as one of the host courses for the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship on the European Tour, and in some quarters it’s believed to be a future Open Championship venue. What I love is its playability.

Yes, it’s a good test for the top pros, but it's also one of those courses that club golfers never tire of challenging themselves on. It’s a sympathetic Scottish links, a wonderfully manicured course with mesmeriSing scenery. Being just seven miles from St Andrews, the Home of Golf, also adds to the allure.

On that point about a golf course being ■ KYLE PHILLIPS

■ KINGSBARNS GOLF LINKS IN SCOTLAND

sympathetic, it’s also good word to describe Dundonald Links, which hosted both the men’s and women’s Scottish Opens, and iS another brilliant Kyle Phillips design.

The west coast of Scotland is famous for its stunning championship links, and Dundonald sits right up there alongside the very best of them.

Opened in 2003, Dundonald also boasts maturity beyond its years, and offers both the challenge and enjoyment factor in equal measure.

Located at the very heart of Ayrshire's golf coast, near Royal Troon, Prestwick and Turnberry, and just 10 minutes from Prestwick Airport, Dundonald is owned

by Loch Lomond Golf Club, so the standards are, as you’d expect, impeccable.

As I’ve been mentioning scenery and spectacular surroundings, it would be remiss of me not to mention the Verdura Resort in Sicily. Phillips has designed two 18-hole championship courses at this five-star facility, the East and the West, with a fine 9-hole practice layout too. Measuring 7,217 yards, the par-71 championship layout – the one used for this year’s Rocco Forte Open – comprises nine holes

■ VERDURA, SICILY

KINGSBARNS BLENDS THE ART OF CONTEMPORARY COURSE DESIGN WITH THE RUGGED SIMPLICITY OF A TRADITIONAL SCOTTISH LINKS

■ DUNDONALD LINKS, WEST SCOTLAND

from each of the two designs and features one of the most dramatic finishes in tournament golf, with the final six holes running adjacent to the coast and set against the magnificent backdrop of the azure Mediterranean Sea. When I covered the event back in 2012, we had citrus trees growing in the TV compound, and John Daly described Verdura as ‘the Pebble Beach of Europe.’ It’s a luxurious resort featuring beautiful accommodation and a sumptuous spa – the perfect place for a chill-out week relaxing in the sun.

Finally, one of my all-time favourite Phillips designs is Yas Links in Abu Dhabi, primarily because it’s like nothing else in the region. Much like at Kingsbarns, the American architect created a masterpiece from scratch, which feels like it’s on a natural site that has been around for years. It also has a spectacular finishing stretch sitting opposite the F1 circuit.

Other notable Phillips' designs include The Grove in Hertfordshire, venue for last year’s British Masters, which is always in immaculate condition, and the California Golf Club in San Francisco, by all accounts a little gem. With so many great layout – and many more around the world, I haven’t mentioned – there’s no doubt that Kyle Phillips is one of the best golf course architects of the modern era, creating masterpieces which will leave you itching to go back for more.

FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER @SARAHSKYSPORTS

GOLF IN GUIDE 2017

A PUBLICATION

WOOSIE’S WALES THE WELSH WIZARD’S FAVOURITE TRACKS FEATURES ON THE BEST GOLF TO BE FOUND IN MID, SOUTH, AND NORTH WALES

WALES’ SWEET SPOT There are few places in the UK that offer golfers the range of facilities and as many inspiring golf holes as the Vale Resort - the ideal venue for your next golf break or away day.

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Mon to Thur, 3rd April to 31st Oct 2018 Minimun 12 players.

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WALES | AUGUST 2017

[73]

SLAYING THE DRAGON JEREMY ELLWOOD SINGS THE PRAISES OF GOLFING IN WALES, WHERE THE COUNTRY'S FAMOUS HILLS AND VALLEYS, AND DRAW-DROPPINGLY DRAMATIC COASTLINE HAVE PERFORMED AN INTEGRAL PART IN SHAPING AN ENDLESSLY THRILLING GOLFING LANDSCAPE THAT IS JUST WAITING TO BE TACKLED

W

ales may be small in both size and population, but when it comes to golf, it is a country that punches seriously above its weight. Perhaps this is because there is just so much unspoilt countryside within its boundaries, whether around the coast or further inland in the stunning mountain regions of Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons.

Surrounded by water on three sides, it’s no real surprise that some of its most prestigious and highly regarded courses are to be found around the coast, whether down south at Royal Porthcawl, out west at Aberdovey, up north at Conwy, or out on a limb in the case of the clifftop cracker at Nefyn and District on the Lleyn Peninsula.

But golf in Wales is about so much more than the famous links and seaside layouts. There’s an abundance of hilltop, clifftop, parkland and resort courses waiting to be discovered, along with many other tucked-away, less-heralded links, all of which offer a relaxed round on often uncrowded fairways in the most splendid of surroundings. To play only the famous courses and overlook Wales’s delightful supporting cast – courses like Porthmadog, Pwllheli, Pyle & Kenfig, Cradoc and Llandrindod Wells – would be a careless omission.

Of course, Wales hasn’t been shy in shouting about its golf over the past decade or so. Celtic Manor’s successful bid for the 2010 Ryder Cup brought with it a series of significant professional

tournaments on all the main tours in Europe, and while the Wales Open stayed rooted at Celtic Manor, others travelled around some of the country’s finest courses, both old and new – courses like Machnys and The Vale Resort in the south, along with Royal St David’s, laid out below mighty Harlech Castle, on the west coast.

In the summer of 2014, things went a stage further when the Senior Open visited Royal Porthcawl near Bridgend

for the country’s first ever Major championship, with Bernhard Langer taking a real shine to the venerable old links and lapping the field en route to an impressive 13-stroke victory. The world’s top amateurs then faced Porthcawl’s wonderful challenge last year, when the Amateur Championship visited for the seventh time, while 2017 sees the eagerly awaited return of the Senior Open.

There’s something just a little bit different about golf in Wales, whether

it’s the feeling of space, the stunning backdrops, whether inland or around the coast, the friendliness of the welcome, or the highly favourable green fees compared to certain parts of the UK. As you read on about the sheer breadth and variety of golf on offer in Wales over the next few pages, we hope that you’ll feel inspired to start planning either your maiden golfing visit to the country or that long overdue return. Either way, we’re sure you won’t be disappointed.

CLWB GOLFF ABERTEIFI

CARDIGAN

GOLF CLUB “a hidden jewel” “Superb views over Cardigan Bay and Teifi Estuary from every hole” Established for 120 years Cardigan Golf Club is a must for golfers visiting West Wales.

A warm welcome awaits and all year-round golf is guaranteed. Excellent value for money gives an unforgettable golfing experience. Green fees per day rate.

A mixture of parkland and links, offers a unique challenge.

“The last 4 holes will live in your memory forever” (Golf Empire)

Friday 25th August for our 4 ball Team Open great prizes, £72 per Team.

Tel: 01239 621775 Web: cardigangolf.com

[74] AUGUST 2017 | WALES

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

W

HERE DID YOU FIRST LEARN TO PLAY GOLF?

Llanymynech Golf Club in Oswestry. My family has been associated with the club for many years, with both my mother and father being past captains. I started playing there when I was nine. The course has a unique claim to fame, in that you can play one round of golf in two separate countries, courtesy of Offa’s Dyke running through the course. On the 4th hole, you tee off in Wales and putt out in England. The 5th and 6th holes remain in England, before you are welcomed back into Wales on the 7th tee.

WHAT MADE YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH THE GAME? It was the competitiveness and the sheer difficulty of the game. The harder it was, the more I wanted to conquer it.

WOOSIE’S WAY 59-YEAR-OLD FORMER MASTERS' CHAMPION IAN WOOSNAM DISCUSSES STARTING OUT IN THE GAME AND BEING INDUCTED INTO THE WORLD GOLF HALL OF FAME

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WHO WERE YOUR GOLFING INSPIRATIONS?

■ LLANYMYNECH GOLF CLUB IN OSWESTRY

Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and the late, great, Arnold Palmer. ‘The Big Three’. I used to watch them on TV as a kid, and used to pretend to be them when I was practising my putting. Closer to home, Sandy Lyle was also a big inspiration for me. He was a couple of years older than me, and was one of the best golfers in the world, and I think that helped me to become a better golfer, because I knew what standard to play at 16 years of age.

Sandy dragged us all on, and fortunately sometimes I beat him, sometimes I didn't. I think it's great having someone who's that good and that young close to you as well.

HOW MUCH ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO BEING INDUCTED INTO THE WORLD GOLF HALL OF FAME? I’m obviously very happy to be in the Hall of Fame – to be joining some of the great golfers that are in there is just unbelievable. As the time gets closer and closer to September, I think I'm getting more and more excited about it.

DID YOU THINK IT MIGHT NEVER HAPPEN? I was getting a little bit concerned about it, let’s just say. I wasn't sure what kind of record I needed to be considered for the Hall of Fame. Sometimes, when you just sit back a little bit, and take it easy, people forget about you, and I think maybe that's what happened to me. I just wanted to be out of the limelight, so maybe it's my own fault that it took so long!

WELCOME TO GOLF NORTH WALES It’s often said that North Wales offers the best value green fees in Europe. What’s the catch? There isn’t one. You’ll sacrifice nothing in quality – North Wales is home to some world-class championship links courses, like Royal St David’s, Conwy and Nefyn & District Golf Club, which has been compared to Pebble Beach in the USA. And some hidden gems that you’ll hope will stay that way. Whatever your standard of golf you’ll find courses to enjoy in North Wales. In fact North Wales has over 60 of them, many of them steeped in history.

There’s nothing pretentious or pompous about golf in North Wales. We’re talking about unspoiled courses at affordable prices. You play at your own pace.

Tee times are readily available, even at the weekends. The courses are never over crowded, so expect a relaxed pace and few hold ups.

Visit North Wales and you’ll find friendly welcoming clubs that appreciate your presence and offer great hospitality.

So whether you’re coming with family or with your golfing buddies, you can expect a variety of great quality courses and excellent value for money. We believe that Golf in North Wales is what the game should be about – challenge and conviviality, achievement and enjoyment, good competition and great fun.

St Mellons Golf Club St Mellons, Cardiff, CF3 2XS Tel: 01633 680 408 Email: secretary@stmellonsgolfclub.co.uk

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[75]

Well, I’m not much of a fader of the ball, so I tried to hit it straight off the tee, but the wind was off the right. I was pretty pumped up, so I felt that I could carry the left-hand bunker, and I knew there was going to be no trouble down there. I knew José Maria [Olazabal] had taken a bogey – I watched him hit it in the trees – so I was playing to a safe area to basically try and make a par.

I hit my second shot to just off the edge of the green. If it had been earlier in the week, ■ WOOSNAM'S FAMOUS CELEBRATION AT AUGUSTA IN 1991 I would have chipped it, but I looked at the grain and I thought ‘No, there's all these people around, it's not a good time to stub one’. So I got the putter out. I thought it was going to go to the left a little bit, but it jumped across the grass and went off six foot. But you know it's your time when you've got a putt and you can just see the line straightaway. It was one ball outside the right, couldn't have been a simpler putt. I said to myself, ‘This is your chance’, and hit the putt.

Fortunately, it went in.

DO YOU WISH YOU’D PLAYED MORE GOLF IN THE US DURING YOUR CAREER? Yes, for sure, but at that time I didn't want to move my family and everything. You've got to make your choices. These days I have a home in Barbados and I have a home in Jersey, and I think it's nice that I can spread myself around and play in both places, but over the last few years I've spent more time playing in the States. The way golf courses are set up, the spectators, the sponsors and everything, it's just magnificent.

WHAT'S THE MOST PRIZED POSSESSION THAT YOU'LL BE DONATING TO THE HALL OF FAME? My 1991 Masters’ trophy. I have it in my trophy cabinet at home, along with all my other trophies. I've got to lend a few of them to the Hall of Fame for a year or so, but the Masters’ trophy is my pride and joy. Another one of my favourite trophies is from the very first tournament I won on the European Tour – the Swiss Open in 1982. That's very close to my heart as well.

Getting over that first hurdle of winning a tournament on the European Tour was the biggest thing for me. My career took off from there, really.

WHAT DO YOU REMEMBER ABOUT THE LAST HOLE AT THE MASTERS IN 1991?

HOW MUCH FUN WAS IT TO COMPETE AT THE SENIOR OPEN AT ROYAL PORTHCAWL IN FRONT OF A HOME CROWD LAST MONTH? Competing in the Senior Open on my home turf again was very special. I was close in the Wales Senior Open, when I finished tied third at Royal Porthcawl in 2009 and 2013, but wasn’t really in contention at the Senior Open when it was held there in 2014. Naturally, I’m very proud that the Senior Open came back to Wales for a second time, and we had a solid presence, with four Welsh lads in the field. It’s been a huge sporting year for Wales, with the UEFA Champions League Final, and the ICC Trophy cricket both taking place in Cardiff.

The Senior Open was the third leg of a legendary summer of sport.

■ WOOSIE TEES OFF AT PORTHCAWL

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[76] AUGUST 2017 | WALES

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■ ABERDOVEY

AIMING HIGH IN

MID WALES ENCOMPASSING THE CENTRAL BAND FROM THE BRECON BEACONS TO THE SOUTHERN EDGE OF SNOWDONIA, FROM OFFA’S DYKE TO CARDIGAN BAY, MID WALES IS MAJESTICALLY BEAUTIFUL, AS IS THE GOLF, IF YOU VENTURE OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

■ ABERDOVEY

■ ROYAL ST DAVIDS

W

e start our Mid Wales tour at the two famous links courses at the northern tip and midpoint of Cardigan Bay respectively – Royal St David’s and Aberdovey.

Royal St David’s, laid out beneath imposing Harlech Castle, is a links that builds steadily, with the front nine

playing further from the sea and over terrain that feels almost more heathland at times. After the turn, though, it becomes pure links as you first flank the tall dune ridge between course and sea, then move on to best holes over the closing stretch’s hummocky fairways.

The rollercoaster par-4 15th is best of all, and gazing back up this hole towards the peaks of Snowdonia, with the castle away to your right is one of the most iconic views in Welsh golf.

It’s easy to see why Aberdovey was a real favourite of golf writer Bernard Darwin. This highly regarded links plays over a slender, curving links strip between railway and beach in the lee of a tall dune ridge for much of the round, save for the 12th, a mid-length par 3 that plays up to an exposed green on the dunes with magnificent beach views. The most memorable holes come on the back nine, and after the majestic 13th and 14th in the lee of those dunes, you switch back to the railway side to play a par-5 that narrows disconcertingly in the lay-up zone, then a real risk-reward short par-4 that hugs the railway curve for dear life.

Before venturing inland, Borth & Ynyslas just north of Aberystwyth is a must if you like your links golf with nearpermanent sea views. At its narrowest on the 2nd hole there is danger either side, with a hook finding the pebbles and a slice the road or beyond. The holes at the far end have a different feel, as the higher dunes make their presence felt after the 6th. The par-3 11th is a mirror image of Aberdovey’s 12th, playing down from the top of a dune, while the short par 4 that follows demands a nerveless blind drive over an expanse of scrub.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

WALES | AUGUST 2017

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■ LLANDRINDOD WELLS

THE ROLLERCOASTER PAR-4 15TH IS BEST OF ALL, AND GAZING BACK UP THIS HOLE TOWARDS THE PEAKS OF SNOWDONIA WITH THE CASTLE AWAY TO YOUR RIGHT IS ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC VIEWS IN WELSH GOLF Builth Wells, a former nine-holer that has grown to 18, comes fully alive from the 8th, and is an absolute delight once you cross the river to the 9th tee. On the 10th, your drive must carry 200+ yards to cross this river twice. The 13th is another cracker – a long par 4 that doesn’t play its yardage as it heads over a crest before sweeping steeply down to a green guarded by a pond short left.

At the southern edge of Mid Wales, Cradoc near Brecon enjoys some of the very best views of the Brecon Beacons and their highest peak of Pen y Fan, which falls just shy of the 3,000ft mark.

This lovely parkland course plays around Penoyre, a grand Georgian mansion converted into apartments.

The back nine stands out, with the devilishly narrow short par-4 11th forcing a choice between laying back and potentially blocking yourself out, or relying on razor-sharp accuracy to set up a short approach. The Brecon Beacons backdrop is then at its finest on the tee of the short, downhill par-3 12th.

Finally, for something a little different heading in or out of the country via Shropshire, try Llanymynech, where Ian Woosnam learned his golf. There are 15 holes in Wales here and three in England, with the drive on the 4th taking you out of one country and into another… providing you don’t duff it, of course! Llanymynech is dominated by the exposed rockface above which much of the back nine plays. The views up on top are stunning, with the near-360˚ panorama from the 11th fairway and 12th tee stretching for miles on a clear day.

Mid Wales epitomises the sheer breadth and variety of the Welsh golfing landscape. You can be playing a celebrated links one minute, a rugged moorland layout the next, and a fine parkland course the next, without ever travelling too far – and always via the most striking of landscapes.

■ CRADOC

Aberystwyth, by contrast, is a delightful parkland course up on the hills above the west coast’s biggest town, and if you’re allowed off the backs, starts don’t come any harder than its opening pair of demanding, uphill 430-yarders.

Elsewhere, thankfully, distance is not the major issue, although often the holes are protected by sloping greens. At 290 yards, you’ll perhaps fancy your chances on the downhill 14th, until you spy the tiny upturned-saucer green at the far end.

Inland, Llandrindod Wells and Builth Wells, eight miles apart in the heart

of the country, are well worth a game.

Llandrindod Wells is a sub-6,000-yard Harry Vardon course laid out over glorious moorland high above the Victorian spa town. There can be few better places to play on a fine day. The course climbs steeply on the 1st, while the tough stretch from the 3rd to the 5th makes up a considerable percentage of the overall yardage. You plunge steeply back down to clubhouse level on the 16th, with the final question whether or not to have a crack at the green on the short par-4 finale just beyond the road. It’s definitely on some days!

GREEN FEES ROYAL ST DAVID’S WEB: ROYALSTDAVIDS.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £65-£75 PER ROUND; £85-£95 PER DAY ABERDOVEY WEB: ABERDOVEYGOLF.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £40-£55 PER ROUND; £70 PER DAY BORTH & YNYSLAS WEB: BORTHGOLF.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £30 PER DAY

LLANDRINDOD WELLS IS A SUB-6,000YARD HARRY VARDON COURSE LAID OUT OVER GLORIOUS MOORLAND HIGH ABOVE THE VICTORIAN SPA TOWN. THERE CAN BE FEW BETTER PLACES TO PLAY ON A FINE DAY

ABERYSTWYTH

LLANDRINDOD WELLS WEB: LWGC.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £30-£35 PER ROUND; £35-£40 PER DAY BUILTH WELLS WEB: BUILTHWELLSGOLF.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £28-£30 PER ROUND; £38-£40 PER DAY CRADOC WEB: CRADOC.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £38 PER DAY

WEB: ABERYSTWYTHGOLFCLUB.COM

LLANYMYNECH

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WEB: LLANYMYNECHGOLFCLUB.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £25-£35 PER ROUND

[78] AUGUST 2017 | WALES

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NEW

SOUTH WALES FOLLOWING THE WORLDWIDE INTEREST GENERATED BY THE 2010 RYDER CUP AT CELTIC MANOR, SOUTH WALES HAS ENJOYED A SURGE IN GOLFING VISITORS DRAWN TO ITS APPEALING MIX OF LUXURY LEISURE RESORTS AND ANCIENT LINKS COURSES

D

espite the fact that I’ve visited Celtic Manor on numerous occasions, it still surprises me how quickly after crossing the SeveRn Bridge that I find myself craning my neck to look up at the vast hill-top edifice of Celtic Manor’s five-star hotel, which looms large over the M4 like some evil dictator’s lair.

It’s a captivating sight, and one that will continue to greet the thousands of golfers that are destined to beat a path to play the resort’s Twenty Ten Course following its star billing in the 2010 Ryder Cup. Thankfully, Celtic Manor’s owner, Sir Terry Matthews, is not an evil dictator, quite the opposite in fact, as to many in this part of the world he is verging on a saint, given the financial boost that he has given to the region.

Celtic Manor was built with the sole intention of hosting the Ryder Cup, and to that extent, the mission has been

■ CELTIC MANOR'S TWENTY TEN COURSE

accomplished, and the business of getting a return on the investment has been going on in earnest over the last seven years.

And with over 400 bedrooms, three golf courses, two spas, five restaurants, and extensive conference facilities, there is certainly the wherewithal to do just that.

The Twenty Ten Course is the ultimate made-for-TV layout, offering vantage points for tens of thousands of spectators, while creating a design that delivers drama at almost every turn. The course occupies an amphitheatre-like stage in the Usk

Valley, starting out at the bottom before climbing steadily up the side towards its dramatic finish in front of the vast purpose-built clubhouse.

Huge carries over water, and numerous risk-and-reward shots, make it a compelling match play venue, and while differing tee options make the par-71 layout playable for higher handicappers, most will want to test themselves over the same yardages as the Ryder Cup teams did.

Golfers can also enjoy rounds on the equally entertaining Roman Road course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, or The Montgomerie, which was created by the former Ryder Cup captain and plays to a par of 69.

Regardless of which course you play, the golf service is superb, with shuttle buses running from the hotel down to the luxurious 2010 Clubhouse where, on arrival, your clubs are whisked away to your buggy, leaving you to change in the

■ CELTIC MANOR BOASTS A FIVE-STAR HOTEL

CELTIC MANOR’S OWNER, SIR TERRY MATTHEWS, IS NOT AN EVIL DICTATOR, QUITE THE OPPOSITE IN FACT, AS TO MANY IN THIS PART OF THE WORLD HE IS VERGING ON A SAINT

A wide range of golf packages available and a good selection of golf friendly places to stay. Travel is easy, as the courses have a great location between Cardiff and Swansea; either use the M4 motorway, J35 – 37 or the main railway from London Paddington.

Mae ystod eang o becynnau golff ar gael a dewis da o leoedd golff cyfeillgar i aros ynddynt. Gellir teithio iddynt yn hawdd, gan fod y cyrsiau mewn lleoliad gwych rhwng Caerdydd ac Abertawe; defnyddiwch naill ai traffordd yr M4, Cyffordd 35 – 37 neu’r brif reilffordd o Paddington Llundain.

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Pyle & Kenfig Golf Club 01656 783093 Ref: PK16

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Coed-Y-Mwstwr Golf Club 01656 864934 Ref: CM16

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Maesteg Golf Club 01656 734106 Ref: MG16

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Bridgend Golf Complex 01656 647926 Ref: BG16

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THREE OF THE BEST

huge wood-panelled locker room, where personalised lockers and a complimentary bag of Ryder Cup-logoed goodies add to the experience.

On the dining front, the Rafters restaurant in the clubhouse enjoys 2 AA Rosettes and serves excellent locally-sourced food, while up in the hotel, the atrium-style Olive Tree restaurant has buffet-style service that will suit families and large groups of golfers. Guests in search of more intimate surroundings should book a table at The Crown, a fine dining establishment that boasts a Michelin-stared chef.

When not treading the fairways, there’s plenty to occupy both golfers and nongolfers alike, with the spa being especially popular at weekends, when the business community vacates and makes way for families and, of course, yet more golfers.

With swimming, tennis, fishing, shooting, mountain biking and walking trails also on offer, the 1,600-acre estate is the ultimate

ROYAL PORTHCAWL GOLF CLUB

MACHYNYS PENINSULA GOLF CLUB

THE VALE RESORT

Despite being ranked the top course in Wales, Royal Porthcawl enjoys a notoriety well below its numerical status. Founded in 1870 and designed

by Harry Colt, this stunning 7,056-yard links course has held numerous top professional and amateur events over the years, including the 1995 Walker Cup, and the Senior Open in 2014 and 2017. Fully exposed to the winds off the Atlantic, and the sea in view from every hole, it can be a brute, especially as the layout is shaped in a loop, rather than a traditional out-and-back design, which means the wind is almost never played in the same direction.

Widely regarded as the best new course in Britain when it opened in 2005, Machynys is a combination of man-made links and parkland golf. Designed by Gary Nicklaus, the 7,121-yard layout enjoys stunning views across the Machynys Peninsula and is routed in two distinct loops, with a parkland front nine giving way to a linksy back nine. The par-four 16th is one of many highlights, with the 450-yard hole playing across a lake from in front of the clubhouse, with the green offering up a view of the whole bay.

Although a strong test for skilled players five sets of tees enable it to be enjoyed by all levels of golfer.

Reflecting the modern face of Welsh golf, the Vale is situated on a 650-acre country estate 20 minutes north of Cardiff. Facilities include a 143 bedroom four-star hotel, two championship golf courses, Wales’ largest spa, and extensive sporting and leisure facilities, reflecting its status as the home of the Welsh Rugby Union. The par 73 Wales National course is the headline grabber, with its 7,433 yards making it one of the longest layouts in the UK. With vast bunkers, large lakes and narrow, tree-lined fairways, it’s a serious test. The adjoining Lakes Course is no less taxing, with water coming into play on 12 holes, demanding accuracy and strong nerves to score well, especially on the island green 12th.

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sporting paradise. Kids are also very well looked after, with the Hideaway Club providing plenty of activities to keep young minds amused while parents make use of the facilities.

In truth, whatever their interests, most guests will struggle to find a reason to venture ‘off-site’ during a two- or three-night break to Celtic Manor, on the basis that there are more than enough drinking, eating and entertainment options to hand, and the reason that most people come here – the golf courses – are right on the door step.

BEST OF THE REST PYLE & KENFIG GOLF CLUB Towering dunes and long par fours make this 6,728yard layout one of the most challenging tracks in Wales. The views of the Welsh Mountains are majestic.

T: 01656 771613, pandkgolfclub.co.uk PENNARD GOLF CLUB Located on the stunning Gower Penisula, Pennard is called ‘the links in the sky’ because it plays like a links, but the 6,329-yard course is actually 200 feet above sea level.

T: 01792 233451, pennardgolfclub.com

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[80] AUGUST 2017 | WALES

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■ PORTHMADOG

NORTHERN HIGHLIGHTS BOASTING AN UNBEATABLE COMBINATION OF DRAMATIC CLIFFTOP LAYOUTS AND UNTAMED NATURAL LINKS, THE RUGGED COASTLINE OF NORTH WALES IS A HAVEN FOR THE ADVENTUROUS TRAVELLING GOLFER

T

he northern part of Wales boasts some of the country’s most rugged and spectacular scenery along the coast and up in the mountains, so it’s perhaps no great surprise that those two adjectives should apply equally well to its mostphotographed golf course – the dramatic clifftop layout at Nefyn and District on the northern coast of the Lleyn Peninsula.

This remarkable 27-hole layout is without equal visually on the UK mainland, mainly because of the quite unbelievable terrain over which its ‘Old’ nine plays, on a wafer-thin headland called The Point. The holes here provide a rollercoaster ride of thrills and drama via blind shots, heart-stopping drives, stunning views and, mercifully, even a ■ CONWY

conveniently located pub – the Ty Coch Inn down on Porthdinllaen beach - where you can stop mid-round to catch your breath and take it all in.

You will have your breath taken away here, too, by holes like the 4th and 7th: the former a tough par 4 challenging you to take on as much of the bay as you dare, as the fairway curves away to the left; the latter a testing 180-yarder from an elevated tee, where you must carry a sinkhole, some way short of the green, in which you can hear the waves lapping below.

A little further west on the Lleyn Peninsula, you’ll come to Abersoch Golf Club, where an original Harry Vardon links nine has since been complemented by a newer nine. Spare a thought for the cottage on the 8th hole, which may well

■ CONWY

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WALES | AUGUST 2017

■ PWLLHELI GOLF CLUB

[81]

GREEN FEES NEFYN & DISTRICT WEB: NEFYN-GOLF-CLUB.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £48-£57 PER ROUND; £60-£69 FOR 36 HOLES ABERSOCH WEB: ABERSOCHGOLF.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £43-£48 PER ROUND PWLLHELI WEB: CLWBGOLFFPWLLHELI.COM GREEN FEE: £34-£37 PER ROUND, £44 PER DAY PORTHMADOG WEB: PORTHMADOG-GOLF-CLUB.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £37-£42 PER ROUND BULL BAY

come into play if you pull your drive a touch too much. On the peninsula’s southern coastline, you can also enjoy the golfing variety on offer at Pwllheli where Old Tom Morris and James Braid, between them, have bequeathed us an intriguing mix of pure links golf and majestic parkland holes. The true links holes around the turn and early on the back nine play right beside the beach, and come complete with pot bunkers and firm seaside bounces.

Braid created another intriguing hybrid layout at Porthmadog, where this time the terrain serves up a blend of links and heathland golf, with some of the links holes right by the water’s edge. The views here are stunning, and the course is one of a number of UK layouts to boast a hole christened ‘Himalayas’, in this instance the SI-1 14th. It may only stretch to a mere 378 yards, but is not one to be taken lightly on account of a vast natural bunker that obscures the fairway, after which the hole then plays on up to a well-protected green.

From here, the drive north across either Thomas Telford’s Menai Bridge or Robert

Stephenson’s Britannia Bridge to Anglesey is well worth it for a round at Bull Bay, the most northerly of the nine or ten courses on the island up in the top-right corner.

This lovely layout perched above the Irish Sea is an absolute picture at certain times of year when vast swathes of gorse adorn the fairways and greens. The par-5 11th at 505 yards is a great risk-reward hole with an undulating fairway that rolls this way and that before arriving at a tricky green set on a raised plateau.

Gorse is a prominent feature too at Conwy’s highly acclaimed links back on mainland Wales, especially over the fearsomely tight closing stretch. This is a fine test of links golf blessed with magnificent backdrops, whether out to the Irish Sea, across the Conwy estuary to Llandudno, or inland to the steeply rising hills that form a stirring backdrop to holes like the par-3 13th. Ladies European Tour star Amy Boulden plays her golf here, but she learned the game across the water at Maesdu near Llandudno, where her father was the head pro.

Maesdu is yet another North Wales club

with an interesting mix of holes – this time parkland and links. It serves up lovely panoramic views across Conwy Bay or down to the imposing mountains of Snowdonia. North Wales Golf Club, the other side of the railway, is then a ruggedly natural links barely wide enough to accommodate two holes between the tracks and the estuary around the turn.

The views up to Great Orme’s rocky outcrops as you turn back along the beach on the 9th are magnificent, and the course is perhaps best known for the crisscross back-nine par 3s at 16 and 17, both relatively short, but far from pushovers in any sort of breeze.

If you want to escape the stongest sea breezes for a while, the pretty parkland layout at Abergele, a few miles further east along the A55, offers a pleasant alternative to the region’s acclaimed coastal golf, as does Bangor St Deiniol at the eastern tip of the Menai Strait. This is another Braid course, where the five-time Open champion has taken full advantage of the natural terrain with a series of memorable holes that play over rolling, elevated

WEB: BULLBAYGC.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £35-£40 PER ROUND, £45-£50 PER DAY CONWY WEB: CONWYGOLFCLUB.COM GREEN FEE: £48-£60 PER ROUND, £63-£75 PER DAY MAESDU WEB: MAESDUGOLFCLUB.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £30-£47 PER ROUND, £40-£57 PER DAY NORTH WALES WEB: NORTHWALESGOLFCLUB.ORG.UK GREEN FEE: £33-£45 PER ROUND ABERGELE WEB: ABERGELEGOLFCLUB.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £40-£50 PER ROUND BANGOR ST DEINIOL WEB: BANGORGOLF.CO.UK GREEN FEE: £25-£30 PER ROUND

CON W Y

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A golf course good enough to be chosen for top events, but player-friendly for all levels. ◆ Host to 2016 LGU Ladies Home Internationals and in 2006 Final Qualifying Course for The Open Championship. The first and only time that the Final Qualifier has been held in Wales.

◆ The drive to the course is less than an hour from Cheshire and Merseyside, and just over an hour from Manchester and The Potteries. The course is easily accessed from the A55 (Junction 17), SAT NAV LL32 8ER and has magnificent views over the Conwy estuary to the mountains of Snowdonia and the Anglesey coastline.

For further details of membership and green fee offers, contact The Secretary on 01492 592423 Conwy (Caernarvonshire) Golf Club, Beacons Way, Conwy, North Wales LL32 8ER

With so many wonderful golf courses in beautiful unspoilt countryside the toughest decision is where to play on your Welsh golf break.

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Mid Wales Golf Courses with Llandrindod Wells, Cradoc and Builth Wells?

Or last, but by no means least, North Wales Golf Clubs, home to Royal St Davids, Nefyn & District and Conwy.

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These courses are only the tip of the iceberg with so many other great golf courses in Wales waiting to be discovered choose Wales for your next golfing break.

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TRAVEL | AUGUST 2017 [83]

■ MILAN FASHION DISTRICT

■ LE ROBINIE GOLF CLUB & RESORT

LOMBARDY SERVES UP A GOLFING

DOLCE VITA With its gentle climate and quality courses, combined with its beautiful landscapes, stunning lakeside towns and superb culinary heritage, there is plenty to whet the appetite for a golf holiday in the northern Italian region of Lombardy

B

oasting a warm and temperate climate, a stunningly diverse landscape, and a rich artistic and culinary heritage, it’s easy to see why Britons have been flocking to Northern Italy ever since the word ‘holiday’ was invented.

A popular destination on the Grand Tour of Europe so beloved by the great Victorian travellers, the northern region of Lombardy, which is bordered to the north by Switzerland, is quite rightly regarded as one of Italy’s most scenic regions. Stretching from the Alps to the lowlands of the Po Valley, it is home to a wide range of landscapes, while its breathtaking lakes – Garda, Como and Maggiore – are renowned the world over for their beauty.

Aided by its geographic position and fertile soil, Lombardy is also one of Italy’s biggest wine regions, while its capital, Milan, is one of Europe’s most influential commercial and cultural hubs, boasting history, art and culture,

■ GOLF VILLA D'ESTE

■ LIMONE SUL GARDA

which combine with innovation, technology, fashion and entertainment – including, of course, two world-renowned football teams.

But if you prefer to hit a small white ball around an open space, instead of watching 22 men kick a pig’s bladder around a stadium, them Lombardy has also got plenty of golf courses on which to indulge your passion.

The region’s 28 courses have hosted over half of the country’s 73 Italian Opens, while the 74th tees off at Milano Golf Club, for the third consecutive year, from October 12-15. Last year’s winner was home favourite Francesco Molinari, who fended off the challenge of 2016 Masters’ champion Danny Willett to take the coveted title, which is one of the oldest in Europe. A home winner will be equally lauded, especially now that Italy has been chosen to host the Ryder Cup in 2022.

Teeing off our golfing tour of Lombardy in Lake Como, you’ll soon come across the

historic and exclusive club of Villa d’Este, which boasts an 18-hole woodland gem that regularly ranks among the best courses in the country. Created as a private club for one of the most famous hotels in the world, Villa d’Este of Cernobbio, is a fabulous location that has hosted royalty, celebrated actors, and industry VIPs. Its impeccably curated fairways are certainly worth a try.

While you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth stopping off at Menaggio & Cadenabbia, Italy’s second oldest golf club.

Founded in 1907, it enjoys an elevated position over Lake Como, and although it’s a short course, measuring just over 6,000 yards, its reputation proves that good things do come in small packages, with its delightful woodland layout reminiscent of a Home Counties course, only with significantly better views.

Also in the Lake Como district, the

■ CHERVÒ GOLF SAN VIGILIO

woodland courses at Pinetina and Barlassina are both enjoyable layouts, while the two tree-lined 18-holers at Monticello, the Red and the Blue – the former of which has hosted the Italian Open a dozen times – also have strong credentials to make your list of courses to play. Located on flat land, both courses offer easy walking, while plenty of water features and mature trees will keep you honest off the tee.

The courses located on the shores of Lake Garda are open all year-round, thanks to the mild climate created by the warm waters.

The area is home to the luxurious Palazzo Arzaga resort, which features a five-star hotel and a spa. Nestled in the foothills overlooking Lake Garda, the resort offers two courses. The first 18 holes were designed

by Jack Nicklaus Jr in the late 1990s and is notable for its large bunkers and rolling greens, while the second, a nine-hole course, was designed by Gary Player.

Just 15 minutes inland from Lake Garda, you’ll come to Chervò Golf San Vigilio, a 27-hole resort that boasts a four-star hotel.

Owned by the famous Chervo clothing company, it is a golfer’s paradise, with three loops of nine championship holes, as well as a 9-hole par-three course and superb practice facilities. With stunning views over the course, the elegant hotel offers 75 comfortable rooms and a wide selection of self-contained apartments. There’s also an award-winning restaurant in the clubhouse.

Another club with 27 holes is Gardagolf Country Club, which offers gorgeous views of Rocca di Manerba, the Soiano Castle, and the hills of Valtènesi, while Franciacorta, situated just south of Lake Iseo, offers three courses not far from the vineyards, with the nines called Brut, Saten and Rosé.

Yet another great area for golfing is near Lombardy’s border with Piedmont. Around Lake Maggiore, Varese and Golf dei Laghi are well worth a visit, while Le Robinie, which boasts the only Jack Nicklaus-designed course in Italy, is a must-play. This spectacular stadium-style course has a modern feel to it, which contrasts nicely with the some of more traditional private clubs in the region.

Just outside Milan, you’ll find courses like the Villa Paradiso, immersed in a green oasis of peace and tranquility. Meanwhile, a historic Zoate and the Crema Golf Resort feature countryside courses reminiscent of English clubs, and are among the oldest in Italy.

For more details on golf breaks in Lombardy, visit www.in-lombardia.com/golf.

[84] AUGUST 2017 | TRAVEL

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

CAPITAL CHOICE

If you’re looking to combine a relaxing golf break with a visit to Lisbon, one of Europe’s most approachable and vibrant capital cities, then the Orizonte region on the Costa Azul is the place to go, says Pat Mooney

T

o the south of Lisbon is the Costa Azul - the Blue Coast - set along the Setubal Peninsula. The region boasts a plethora of top-class courses and is a relatively hidden gem in Portugal’s capital.

The Orizonte-Lisbon Golf Group manages seven courses here, including the three outstanding tracks we played during our quick-fire trip last month

■ RIBAGOLFE

- Quinta do Peru and the 36-hole complexes of Aroeira and Ribagolfe.

Orizonte provides a wide range of golf passports and has also teamed up with local hotels, including two new ones, Casa Palmela and Tryp Costa Caparica, to offer exciting packages to golfers looking for the ideal golf break at an attractive price.

Costa Azul has several lovely costal towns such as Sesimbra and Setubal.

They don't have the same extensive

BLUE COAST GREEN FEES ARE GENERALLY CHEAPER AS WELL, AND LISBON'S INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT IS ONLY A HALF HOUR'S DRIVE AWAY accommodation as the Algarve, or perhaps central Lisbon, but enough to stay locally in some comfort and style - such as the four-star Sana Sesimbra hotel is great value, just yards from the beach. Indeed, this unspoiled stretch of Atlantic-washed coastline is considered by many to be the ‘real Portugal’.

The typical Portuguese town of Alcochete to the east, sits on the south bank of the Tagus about 20 minutes from Lisbon, and is a perfect base to explore the two courses at Ribagolfe. Alternatively, golfers can stay in the centre of Lisbon - as we did at the excellent Bessa Hotel - and drive across two stunning bridges over the Tagus.

The 25th April bridge connects western Lisbon to the Costa Azul and is often compared to the Golden Gate in San Francisco. It is overlooked by one of Lisbon’s most famous landmarks – Cristo

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

TRAVEL | AUGUST 2017 [85]

■ LISBON

■ AROEIRA

MEANWHILE, RIBAGOLFE I HAS BEEN CALLED AS THE ‘VALDERRAMA OF PORTUGAL’.

PETER TOWNSEND AND EUROPEAN GOLF DESIGN HAVE CREATED FROM THIS BEAUTIFUL PIECE OF CORK OAK FOREST A LAYOUT WHICH WOULD GRACE ANY EUROPEAN TOUR EVENT

■ AROEIRA

Rei – a 260ft statue of Christ, similar to the one found in Rio de Janeiro. Meanwhile, the Vasco da Gama bridge connects from the east of the city and is Europe’s longest bridge with a total length of 10.7 miles.

The region’s climate affords the chance to play golf all the year round with autumn and winter temperatures especially appealing to the Brits and Irish. Blue Coast green fees are generally cheaper as well, and Lisbon's international airport is only a half hour's drive away.

Indeed, it is this proximity to Lisbon Europe’s westernmost capital - that adds that extra dimension to golf in this area.

The vibrant capital offers a great variety of culture, history and exciting nightlife.

And with Lisbon being a shorter flight (2.5 hours) from the UK than the Algarve (Faro) is, what’s not to like?

Our first port of call was Quinta do Peru Golf - a 30-minute drive from Lisbon

and framed by the Arrábida Natural Park. Rocky Roquemore has caringly crafted a track that is a regular in the Top 100 courses in Continental Europe.

It was opened in 1994 and meanders gently through tall pines, featuring many discreet villas set back from the fairways.

Quinta do Peru provides a demanding 6,640-yard test, with astute bunkering and quick greens. There are several standout holes and a stellar closing stretch. The spectacular par-3 16th requires a 190-yard carry over water to an undulating green and a lot of courage.

The course is overlooked by a comfortable rustic clubhouse, and practice facilities include a double-ended 300-metre practice range, short game target greens and putting areas.

Next up was the Aroeira complex, which is located only 25 kilometres from Lisbon, close to the coastal town of Caparica. It is a unique estate, comprising of two courses and a host of impressive mansions.

We played Aroeira I, and it is a deserved new entry into the Top 100 list. Designed

by Frank Pennink (The Old Course, Vilamoura), and opened in 1973, Aroeira I was dubbed the ‘Wentworth of Lisbon’ in the 1980s - although it has probably more of a feel of Woburn about it. Played through avenues of tall pine trees and surrounded by wildlife and nature, the par-72 track plays to 6,650 yards and requires accuracy off the tee.

The best holes can be found on the back nine, with several classic par-fours including the 17th, a shortish, but tricky downhill hole to a green set on the left of the dog-leg.

The course staged the Portuguese Open in 1996 and 1997 and has played host to several Ladies’ European Tour events. Its sister course, Aroeira II, was opened in 2000 and is designed by Donald Steel. It is

longer at over 7,000 yards from the backs, but not as tight. Water comes into play on no fewer than nine holes, and there are many pot bunkers and large, undulating greens. It has hosted the Ladies European Tour Qualifying School and several Ladies’ Portuguese Opens.

Ribagolfe, just a 40-minute drive from Lisbon, was our final stop. Set in a large cork oak forest, the Ribagolfe experience means you are in utter tranquility - there are no houses on the courses.

We played Rirbagolfe II, which is a shorter test than its sibling, but still measures more than 6,800 yards. It was designed by former Ryder Cup player Michael King, in conjunction with European Tour Design. King has created a more forgiving, but equally appealing course, with wider fairways and landing areas. The large, contoured greens,

however, provide a stiff test, especially if the wind blows.

Meanwhile, Ribagolfe I has been called as the ‘Valderrama of Portugal’. Peter Townsend and European Golf Design have created from this beautiful piece of cork oak forest a layout which would grace any European Tour event and boasts superb oversized greens.

Narrow landing areas also challenge long and straight hitters, and three of the four par-fives have a risk-and-reward aspect for big hitters seeking the green in two. It plays 7,370 yards from the back tees and provides a superb test of golf. It has hosted the first stage of the European Tour Qualifying School since 2009.

Lisbon’s Blue Coast ticks all the boxes a city break, sandy beaches with first-class golf courses, and all within a 40-minute drive of each other.

FLY MONARCH OPERATES YEARROUND FLIGHTS TO LISBON FROM BIRMINGHAM, LONDON GATWICK AND MANCHESTER AIRPORTS WITH FARES, INCLUDING TAXES, FROM £42 ONE WAY (£75 RETURN). VISIT WWW. MONARCH.CO.UK

STAY DEAL 1: ORIZONTE-LISBON GOLF OFFERS FOUR NIGHTS AT CASA PALMELA, WITH A ROUND AT QUINTA DO PERU AND TWO ROUNDS AT AROEIRA, STARTS FROM €518 (£440), WHILE A SEVEN-NIGHT STAY, WITH TWO ROUNDS AT EACH COURSE, STARTS FROM €825 (£715).

DEAL 2: ORIZONTE-LISBON GOLF OFFERS FOUR NIGHTS AT THE TRYP

COSTA CAPARICA, WITH THREE GREEN FEES AT QUINTA DO PERU AND AROEIRA, STARTS AT €300 (£260), WHILE A SEVEN-NIGHT STAY, WITH FIVE GREEN FEES, IS €500 (£435). THERE IS A CHARGE FOR SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FOR BOTH HOTELS.

GREEN FEEES QUINTA DO PERU; 18 HOLES FROM €58 PP; AROEIRA 18 HOLES FROM €40PP; RIBAGOLFE 18 HOLES FROM €44PP.

WEBSITES WWW.ORIZONTEGOLF.COM BOOK.CAPARICA@MELIAPORTUGAL.COM BOOK.BESSAHOTEL.COM/BESSAHOTEL SANASESIMBRA@SANAHOTELS.COM INFO-CASAPALMELA@OUH.PT

[86] AUGUST 2017 | TRAVEL

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

PALMARES OPENS BOUTIQUE HOTEL T

he five-star boutique hotel at the Algarve's multi-award-winning Onyria Palmares Beach & Golf Resort has opened.

The Onyria Palmares Beach House Hotel has 18 rooms and two suites, each with a panoramic sea view and a balcony or terrace, and is within easy walking distance of the tees and practice area of the renowned Robert Trent Jones Jnr-designed, 27-hole golf course.

The hotel also enjoys an outdoor swimming pool and a 180° bar and

restaurant, with an expansive ocean vista - and all just 700m from the beach.

Three-night stay-and-play packages, including two rounds of golf, are currently available from €409pp, while seven-night packages, including five green fees, cost from €911.

The family-owned 27-hole complex in Lagos has won the Publituris Portugal Travel Award for Portugal's best golf course for five successive years, and last year was ranked in the country's top three by Golf Digest.

The resort's operations director, António Pinto Coelho, said: "There is, of course, no shortage of accommodation in the Algarve, but we feel the quality of the Onyria Palmares Beach House Hotel and its unique location will ensure it stands above the majority of the competition and becomes a ‘must visit' for golfers and non-golfers alike."

For bookings for further details, call 00351 282 249 880 or email reservations@onyriaresorts.com.

CLASSY NEW CLUBHOUSE ADDS TO LE TOUQUET’S TIMELESS APPEAL

CATALUNYA VINEYARD ADDS GRAPE APPEAL

P

GA Catalunya Resort is enhancing its status as one of Europe’s leading luxury golf and lifestyle destinations by creating a new on-site vineyard, which will eventually see the European Tour destination produce its own wine.

Surrounded by some of the most celebrated wine regions in Spain, including Empordá, Alella y and Penedés, PGA Catalunya Resort benefits from a favourable climate, rolling landscape and perfect soil conditions to enable high-quality wine production.

In the first phase of planting, carefully selected vine varieties will include Chardonnay and Xarel lo, a local white variety. The red grape, Garnatxa Negra, is a rustic assortment from the Empordà region that stands out for its fragrant nose as well as its capacity to produce aged wines.

The new project will also offer vine adoption possibilities for homeowners, as well as grape picking and wine workshops for all guests at staying at the resort and the Hotel Camiral, Girona’s only five-star hotel.

I

n the ‘Roaring Twenties’ and 1930s, Le Touquet was Europe’s most fashionable coastal resort and a playground for Hollywood film stars and British aristocrats. Nearly a century on, Le Touquet Golf Resort, home of France’s top-ranked links course, is ushering in a new golden age for European golf travel with the opening of a stunning new clubhouse, designed to blend into the links environment while offering guests contemporary comforts and hospitality.

Inspired by the vast beaches and mountainous dunescape that characterise this stretch of France’s north east coast, the new clubhouse nestles at the heart of the resort’s three golf courses,

La Mer, La Forêt and Le Manoir.

Its striking design features seven pyramidal peaks – a roofline reminiscent of the coastline, but also echoing the tented villages that accompany the world’s professional golf tours. While instantly delivering a contemporary look, the clubhouse remains fully connected to its dune and pine forest environment, thanks to the wood that clads the exterior, including the roof.

An open-plan interior provides a series of self-contained zones, creating a sense of both space and privacy. This allows the main areas – locker rooms, pro shop, bar and restaurant – to feel separate, yet linked. The clubhouse is also bathed in

light, with the liberal use of glass affording glorious views of the golf courses from all points of the interior.

The new clubhouse and its acclaimed new restaurant, The Spoon, are part of a significant long-term investment programme at Le Touquet Golf Resort.

The classic La Mer course, France’s No.1 links, has already undergone a major restoration project, including the discovery and restoration of four holes lost from Harry Colt’s original 1931 design.

The resort’s hotel, Le Manoir, will also undergo a transformation, with long-term plans to turn it into a boutique style hotel. A stylish new restaurant has already opened, with the hotel’s communal areas set for renovation this winter.

Le Touquet, part of the Open Golf Club group, is less than an hour’s drive south of the Eurotunnel terminus on the Côte d’Opale. With easy access to the A16 autoroute, it is easy for golfers to drive direct from the UK, Belgium and The Netherlands, as well as the rest of France.

For more information, visit www. opengolfclub.com/en/Golf-du-Touquet

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LA MANGA OPEN OFFERS PRE-XMAS TREAT

F

eaturing world-class facilities on and off the course, La Manga Club is a firm favourite with golfers across Europe, and players can end the 2017 season in style by heading to Spain’s flagship resort to compete in its popular La Manga Club Golf Open from December 5-8.

Taking place for a 17th successive year, the 36-hole event – which will be played on the resort’s North and South courses – attracts men and women from all over the continent

and offers the ideal chance to grab a sunshine golfing break before Christmas.

Players will compete over a number of different categories for an array of top prizes, with this year’s competition also featuring a halfway cut and a consolation plate tournament.

Tournament packages, costs €510 per person, feature four nights’ accommodation in the five-star Hotel Principe Felipe or

four-star Las Lomas Village (€425), with breaks including breakfast and a welcome pack; a cocktail reception; a gala dinner and prizegiving ceremony. Prices include tournament entry for golfers as well as a practice round, practice balls and on-course refreshments during the event.

To book, please email reservas@ lamangaclub.com or visit www. lamangaclub.com.

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

TRAVEL | AUGUST 2017

[87]

ME&MYTRAVELS 40-year-old Irish singer Ronan Keating loves the golf courses of Ireland and Scotland, but also enjoys a South African safari

My first holiday… was to Killarney in County Kerry. We'd spend pretty much every summer holiday there as a family. I've got great memories and it seemed that the summers were longer and brighter then. I have three brothers and a sister, so the energy during the drive down there was brilliant.

My most memorable holiday… was my honeymoon with my wife Storm in 2015.

We spent a week in Ulusaba, which is Sir Richard Branson’s private game reserve in South Africa. We woke up at 6am every morning to see the sunrise over the bush, then would be driven out to see the wildlife.

and Lee Westwood. At least one of us would know what we were doing.

■ ULUSABA ROCK LODGE, SABI SANDS

■ KINGSBARNS, SCOTLAND

We saw elephants, lions, rhinos, wild dogs, zebra – everything you could imagine. The food was amazing and the people so friendly. We then flew on to Fregate Island in the Seychelles, where we had our own villa, a pool, and a private beach. There were giant tortoises roaming around, and you drive around in golf buggies.

■ SHUTTERS ON THE BEACH HOTEL, SANTA MONICA

My worst holiday was…a package holiday to Lanzarote with some of the lads from Boyzone. We were teenagers at the time and really hadn’t thought it through.

We had all been spoilt staying in five-star hotels, and an economy holiday was a bit of a shock. Plus we forgot that fans would still

want autographs, even though we thought we were on a break. We had to leave after a couple of days because of all the attention.

My favourite destination in the British Isles is… the west coast of Ireland. It’s a wonderful place to hide away. I love Scotland, too – visiting Glasgow and Edinburgh and playing golf in places like St Andrews and Loch Lomond. I love wintry weather as much as the sun, so Ireland and Scotland are perfect for that.

My favourite hotel is…

Shutters on the Beach

in Santa Monica, for the location and the décor – there's a fireplace and big sofas in the lobby and the rooms are just beautiful. I go to the K Club in Ireland with my family quite regularly, and Gleneagles in Scotland is great, too.

I'm a big fan of Hotel du Vin, particularly the ones in Bath, Bristol and Glasgow. They've got great wine lists.

My favourite city is…

New York. I have a lot of friends there ,and I like to walk the streets and hang out there. It's somewhere I like to go and wind down.

My favourite golf courses are… I’m fortunate to have played on many of the best courses in the world,

but several stick in my mind, including Loch Lomond, which is always a privilege to play. I’ve played in the Dunhill Links a few times, and Kingsbarns and St Andrews are very special. I never tire of playing the Old Course – following in the footsteps of champions. I’m also a big fan of Stoke Park, where I had my stag do game of golf, and Archerfield Links in Scotland, where my wife Storm and I got married. It’s a magical place.

My holiday fourball would be… me, Keith Duffy, Brian McFadden

My best meal abroad… was at Nobu in Melbourne. I also went to a wonderful Hakkasan in Abu Dhabi. I also love a good steak and a bottle of red wine, and Marco Pierre White's restaurant in Dublin is great for that.

My ideal holiday would involve… being active. With my complexion, I’m not one for lying in the sun.

I like to swim, hike, or spend time on a boat. I have trekked up Mount Kilimanjaro once and across Ireland twice – that was 260 miles – and I’ve swum in the Irish Sea, all for charitable causes.

For my next trip…

I’d love to go to Cuba and do some travelling while I write my next solo album.

For donations to the Marie Keating Foundation, which raises money for cancer awareness and support, visit www.mariekeating.ie.

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