GOLF NEWS AUTUMN 2025

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WELCOME

Looking Back with Pride Looking Ahead with Excitement

This issue feels like a real moment of re ection and celebration for the game we all love. First, I’d like to wish Roger Chapman all the very best in his retirement, following his recent hosting of the Legends Tour event at Brocket Hall. That tournament will be his last as a professional, drawing the curtain on a career that has spanned decades. Roger has always been one of the most popular and respected gures on tour, admired as much for his character as for his golf. To see him nally break his DP World Tour duck in Brazil and then go on to claim Senior Major titles was a joy for so many fans who had followed his journey. He leaves behind a playing career that embodies persistence, sportsmanship, and achievement, and he can step away with immense pride.

has always been a class act whether it was meeting him back to his days as Touring Professional at Chobham Golf Club in Surrey, or the countless corporate outings through equipment manufactures where he would engage so naturally with fans, partners, and players

grassroots right through to elite competition.

It felt so special to watch Cover Star Tommy Fleetwood nally get that rst PGA TOUR win on his 164th start, a moment that’s been a long time coming for someone so widely admired and respected.

I’ve always loved the way Tommy carries himself, not just with world-class talent and consistency, but with such humility and kindness every single week.

On the subject of milestones, it’s fantastic news that Royal St George’s will be hosting the AIG Women’s Open for the very rst time in 2027. The Women’s game continues to rise in pro le and popularity, and to see one of golf’s truly iconic venues open its doors to the championship in the coming years is a real statement of progress and ambition. It promises to be a spectacular event that will shine a light on both the course and the incredible talent on the women’s tours.

A huge thank you also goes to Colin Montgomerie, who gave us his time despite an incredibly busy schedule. Monty

alike. He’s been one of the true ambassadors of the sport, and every time we speak with him it’s a reminder of just how generous he’s been with his time throughout his career.

It’s also encouraging to see so many golf clubs continuing to invest in their facilities. Westerham and The Buckinghamshire, both featured in this issue, are continuing to push forward with impressive developments, ensuring members and visitors alike get the very best experiences. Likewise, the new course at Basingstoke, which will open its doors very soon, looks set to be a must-play for golfers across the country. It’s these kinds of investments that keep the game thriving at every level, from

MAPLE HOUSE, THE SPINNEY, HOVE, BN3 6QT

He’s one of those players who always makes time for others, whether it’s fans, fellow pros, the media or anyone around him, and he does it with genuine warmth.

That’s why this win feels extra meaningful, it’s not just about the trophy, but about the perseverance, positivity, and character he’s shown throughout his career. And nally, while some athletes are hanging up their boots, tennis rackets and cricket pads, others are picking up golf clubs. More and more sports stars are turning to golf after retirement, and tennis legend Andy Murray is among them. His passion for the game is plain to see, and in our exclusive interview he talks about how the sport gives him fresh challenges and fresh focus. Don’t be surprised if, in the not-toodistant future, we see him playing o scratch his competitive spirit is as strong as ever, and it’s already translating into his golf.

Enjoy the read.

Ma Nicholson Publisher

■ ROGER CHAPMAN PLAYED HIS LAST PROFESSIONAL TOURNAMENT AT BROCKET HALL LAST MONTH

PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

Maidenhead Golf Club Secures

Bright New Future with Purchase of Mill Ride

Maidenhead Golf Club has announced an exciting new chapter in its history after successfully acquiring Mill Ride Golf Club in Ascot.

The deal ensures the club’s long-term future after it was con rmed that Maidenhead Golf Club must vacate its historic Shoppenhangers Road site by the end of 2025, making way for a major housing development.

Mill Ride, a prestigious 62.5-hectare course designed by renowned golf architect Donald Steel and rst opened in 1990, o ers a fresh start for Maidenhead’s members in the heart of Berkshire.

A spokesperson for Maidenhead Golf Club said:

“We are delighted to con rm that Maidenhead Golf Club were recently successful in the acquisition of Mill Ride Golf Club and its name going forward has yet to be con rmed.”

The move follows years of careful planning and consideration of relocation options. While alternatives such as Winter Hill in Cookham and Flackwell Heath Golf Club were explored, members ultimately backed the decision to secure Mill Ride as their new home.

The transition comes after Maidenhead Golf Club agreed to surrender its current lease in return for £15.95 million from the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, paving the way for much-needed new housing in the area.

With Mill Ride’s expansive parkland setting, excellent facilities, and reputation as one of the region’s standout courses, the acquisition represents a win-win for both the local community and club members.

The purchase marks a new beginning for Maidenhead Golf Club, securing a high-quality home for future generations of golfers while preserving the spirit of a club that has been part of the community since 1896.

AIG WOMEN’S OPEN TO BE PLAYED AT ROYAL ST GEORGE’S

The AIG Women’s Open will be played at Royal St George’s for the rst time in 2027.

The Championship will visit the renowned Kent links from 28 July to 1 August.

Royal St George’s has staged The Open on 15 occasions, most recently in 2021. Collin Morikawa became the latest in a long line of notable Champions it has produced including Darren Clarke, Greg Norman, Sandy Lyle, Bobby Locke, Henry Cotton, Walter Hagen, Harry Vardon and JH Taylor.

In 2027 it will be the turn of the world’s best women’s players to take on the challenge of the historic venue and compete for the prestigious AIG Women’s Open trophy.

Mark Darbon, Chief Executive of The R&A, said, “The AIG Women’s Open is a global sporting event and we are committed to giving the best players in the world the best stages on which to compete. Royal St George’s is one of the world’s great links courses and will provide a fantastic test for the players.

“We look forward to working with AIG to put on a wonderful championship for the fans on the south coast of England in two years’ time.”

Peter Za no, Chairman and Chief Executive O cer of AIG, said, “We are delighted that Royal St George’s will host the AIG Women’s Open for the very rst time in 2027.

“Bringing the AIG Women’s Open to Royal St George’s re ects The R&A and AIG’s continued shared commitment to elevate women’s golf by holding the Championship at the world’s most iconic venues.

“This course is a historic venue which will showcase the expertise of the world’s best players and inspire spectators and supporters. All of our AIG colleagues around the world are proud to help raise the standard of professional women’s golf as we continue our journey as title sponsor.”

Royal St George’s was founded in 1887 by Laidlaw Purves and has a long history of championship golf having staged numerous R&A championships and international matches including the Walker Cup, the Curtis Cup, The Amateur Championship and The Women’s Amateur Championship.

The 2026 AIG Women’s Open will be played at Royal Lytham & St Annes from 29 July to 2 August.

FUENFSTUECK TAKES PIF LONDON CHAMPIONSHIP AT CENTURION

Laura Fuenfstueck endured a rollercoaster day which saw her quickly lose her big overnight lead before recovering to win her rst Ladies European Tour title in the PIF London Championship at the immaculate Centurion Club.

The Golf Saudi-backed event, the third iconic stop in this season’s PIF Global Series, continued its appetite for high drama when Fuenfstueck, three clear at the start of the day, fell back into the eld only to haul herself back into contention again, with four birdies on the back nine including 17 and 18 to nish on 1-under 72 and 10-under overall.

Her short winning birdie putt meant she denied Ecuador’s Daniela Darquea, who was set to be her country’s rst winner on the LET, one shot behind on 9-under with Golf Saudi ambassador Ann Van Dam of the Netherlands a further shot back on 8-under after a stunning eagle at the 18th catapulted her up the leaderboard.

Fuenfstueck, who had played in 114 LET events before this maiden win, said: ”Last week (at the AIG Women’s Open) helped, in contention rst two days and then gave it away over the weekend. So I knew what it was like to not have the start I wanted, but if you stay in there, there’s a lot of chances on the back nine and I’m just super pleased I got over the line.”

On a day which saw the lead ebb and ow and at one point seven players were tied for the lead, Fuenfstueck

recovered from a double bogey-bogey at the 3rd and 4th holes to recover her composure and seal the win with a magni cent second shot into the heart of the 18th green.

Her eagle putt rolled past the cup but she made no mistake with the one-foot birdie putt, burying her face in her hands as the enormity of the moment sank in.

Darquea, who only secured her LET card at Qualifying School last year, had looked well placed for an extraordinary maiden win with a closing 5-under 68 including two-nerveless birdies in the last three holes.

She said: “It was wonderful. I had so much fun. I think the back nine was very competitive. I had a lot of fun. I’m really happy to see Laura win and obviously, I gave it my best. When I got to 15, I saw the leaderboard. I knew I had a chance, and I needed to make a few putts coming in. I’m really happy with the result.”

It was another day of high drama after Team Du Toit, captained by Danielle Du Toit who was only included in the eld after Charley Hull’s late withdrawal, triumphed in

the team contest in dramatic style on Saturday.

Big crowds enjoyed another glorious tournament at Centurion, relishing the activities and clinics on site as well as following some of the world’s best players.

The tournament was another example of Golf Saudi’s support for women’s golf, not only showcasing the world’s best but also giving opportunities to local children and beginners who may have never played before with their Go Golf clinics.

Golf Saudi is also focused on strengthening the gol ng ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, driving mass participation in the sport and promoting the Kingdom as a rising gol ng, tourism and investment hub.

For more information on the PIF Global Series and the upcoming PIF London Championship please visit: www.pifglobalseries.com

■ ROYAL ST GEORGE’S WILL WELCOME THE WORLD’S BEST WOMEN GOLFERS IN 2027

■ LAURA FUENFSTUECK IN ACTION AT CENTURION CLUB

Ultimate Golf Acquires Merrist Wood Golf Club

Ultimate Golf, the company co-founded by golf industry veterans Kristian Baker and Tom Reid, has acquired Merrist Wood Golf Club in Surrey.

The acquisition marks a signi cant step in Ultimate Golf’s ambition to rede ne the modern golf experience. Set on a picturesque estate on the edge of the Surrey Hills, Merrist Wood will be transformed into what the founders describe as “an ultra-premium, family-focused golf and wellness estate.”

“This is a rare opportunity,” said Baker, who is also a partner at Sunningdale Heath Golf Club. “Our goal is to create something truly world-class, a place where quality, nature, and innovation come together in a lasting legacy.”

The redevelopment of Merrist Wood is fully funded and scheduled to begin a phased relaunch in 2026. Plans include the creation of a new championshipstandard golf course designed by leading architects, state-of-the-art wellness and recovery facilities, a luxury clubhouse focused on high-end hospitality, and what the founders say will be the most advanced coaching and performance academy in the UK. Membership invitations are expected to be released following the relaunch.

Baker emphasized that the expansion will not come at the expense of Sunningdale Heath, where he and Reid have already established a strong reputation for blending tradition with innovation.

“Sunningdale Heath continues to receive our full care and attention,” he said. “This move strengthens both clubs, allowing us to invest further in what we already cherish.”

While Merrist Wood and Sunningdale Heath will remain distinct entities, they will share a uni ed leadership approach and a commitment to longterm strategic and operational excellence.

For Baker and Reid, the project represents more than a business venture.

“This is about more than golf,” Baker added. “It’s about creating an estate that welcomes generations to come, where community, performance, and wellbeing exist in harmony within an exceptional environment.”

64 female golfers, including 13 professional players from the Ladies European Tour (LET) and three professionals from the Ladies European Access Tour, came together for the second edition of the Cara Gainer Invitational.

The golf tournament is spearheaded by The Club Company’s ambassador and LET star Cara Gainer and took place at Castle Royle, the club where she has been a member since the age of 14.

For most golf lovers, the dream is a house overlooking the fairways. For one lucky buyer, that dream could become reality, to the tune of £24,950,000.

Cara Gainer Invitational helps promote growth of women’s golf

The elite players were assigned to a team consisting of mixed ability female golf members from across The Club Company’s collection of clubs. The day began with a masterclass from Cara, o ering valuable advice to those in attendance.

A shotgun start followed as players walked the fairways with their team professional. They later enjoyed a luxurious seafood bu et and a Q&A with Cara and fellow pros on topics such as how they deal with life on the road and how to stay mentally strong, before the prize giving.

As an ambassador for The Club Company Cara oversaw the event’s proceedings, showcasing the skills that led to her maiden tour victory earlier this year.

She commented; “It’s amazing to see all these women supporting the event and so many amazing pros here. I think the ladies will have a real treat watching the pros; I’m sure they will be impressed with how far they hit their driver and obviously their short games as well, which are right up there.”

Winners of the overall team event were professional Kelsey Bennett with Castle Royle members Sue Gutierrez, Yvonne Craven and Julia Measures, who each took away a brand-new golf bag. Amongst the professionals, Annabel Fuller came out on top with a score of -5 on the day.

This all-female competition is designed to promote women’s participation in golf and celebrate the women’s gol ng community. And it’s one which is growing at speed, as Cara re ects; “I love hosting these events seeing loads of ladies together and everyone inspiring each other… From what I’ve experienced at recent tournaments the atmosphere and spectators were amazing – [the women’s game] is growing and growing.” She is also passionate about getting more girls into golf to give a platform to the next generation.

Hidden behind security gates on Hampstead’s coveted Winnington Road, this spectacular eight-bedroom mansion o ers not only unrivalled luxury, but something almost no London property can boast: direct access to Hampstead Golf Course. Step out of your private garden, and you’re on the green.

Inside, the home is as indulgent as it is expansive. Spanning an astonishing 16,749 sq. ft across four oors, it greets visitors with a soaring entrance atrium before opening into grand entertaining spaces. Six-bedroom suites, including a principal suite with a bathroom larger than many London ats, provide private sanctuaries, while two further sta bedrooms keep everything running smoothly.

For relaxation, there’s a private spa complete with indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and gym. For play, a games room, media room, and landscaped gardens make it just as

easy to entertain at home as on the course. Outside, a sweeping carriage driveway and underground garage with room for six cars ensure arrivals are suitably grand.

But the crown jewel is unquestionably the view. Uninterrupted, sweeping vistas over the rolling greens of Hampstead Golf Course, paired with rare private access, put this home in a league of its own.

Nestled in one of London’s lea est and most prestigious neighbourhoods, the property o ers peace and privacy, with Hampstead Village’s boutiques and cafés just minutes away. Central London is easily reached, but it might be hard to ever leave when your garden gate opens onto the fairway.

For golfers, this is more than a house. It’s the ultimate fantasy, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live where others only dream of playing. For further details visit www.sothebysrealty.co.uk

■

WOOD

Trump International Scotland Unveils ‘The New Course’

but as a global golfing spectacle.

At 7,589 yards, the New Course snakes through some of the most dramatic natural dunes in the world.

Every hole bears the imprint of strategic intent and natural artistry, resulting in a layout that’s both visually arresting and strategically demanding.

Legend Roger Chapman Opens Adventure Golf Course at Southfield School

Scottish golf entered a bold new chapter as Golf News witnessed the official opening of The New Course at Trump International Golf Links, Scotland, a layout already being hailed as a modern links masterpiece.

U.S. President Donald J. Trump the 45th and 47th President of the United States cut the red ribbon to launch what the Trump Golf Organisation is calling The Greatest 36 Holes in Golf. The moment carried pomp, presence, and plenty of political and sporting firepower.

The ceremony unfolded in grand fashion, complete with pipers from Robert Gordon’s College leading the President to the first tee.

Joining the crowd of invited guests were notable figures including Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, leaders from across the golf industry, and high-profile professionals.

With his son Eric Trump, 2014 Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley, and 2002 PGA Champion Rich Beem by his side, President Trump struck the ceremonial first tee shot sending his drive sailing down the middle of the fairway. So began the New Course’s story, not just as a golf course,

The project has been spearheaded by Eric Trump, Executive Vice President of The Trump Organisation, who led a team of top golf architects and environmental consultants.

The course builds on the original masterplan by celebrated architect Dr. Martin Hawtree, and was brought to life by Golflink Evolve, led by Esie O’Mahoney and Jamie O’Reilly.

Perhaps most astonishing is the course’s natural bunker complex, claimed to be the largest in the world, adding to a layout that already brims with drama and scale.

“This is our Mona Lisa,” said Eric Trump during the opening. “It’s a once-in-a-generation course, and I truly believe these are the greatest 36 holes in the world.”

The grand opening also heralded a double-header of championship golf at the venue. The Staysure PGA Seniors Championship, hosted by Colin Montgomerie, which was won by Bo Van Pelt followed next week by the DP World Tour Nexo Championship won by Scotsman Grant Forrest Guy Kinnings, Chief Executive of the PGA European Tour, also praised the vision behind the New Course:

“It’s a spectacular achievement. The Trump family has created something that stands proudly alongside the very best golf experiences on the planet.”

Two-time senior major champion Roger Chapman, a 44-year veteran of the European and Legends Tours, was on hand in Hat eld to o cially open a brand-new Adventure Golf Course at South eld School. He was joined at the ceremony by deputy headteacher Sarah Lettis as sta and supporters celebrated a project designed to bring the sport directly into the lives of children with additional needs.

South eld, a leading SEND primary school in Hertfordshire, has been working with Brocket Hall through its GOLFA initiative since December 2024. The scheme has already proved a major success, introducing more than 1,000 children to golf in just eight months. Led by Brocket Hall’s head of communities Stu Williams and chaired by Annie Brewster, High Sheri of Hertfordshire for 2024–25, GOLFA has made it a mission to break down barriers that have long made golf di cult to access. By focusing on children eligible for free school meals, the initiative runs “Fun, Food & Golf” holiday camps aimed at improving access to hot, healthy meals, increasing opportunities for physical activity, and tackling the problem of social isolation.

Fires Near Golf Course Believed To Be Deliberate

Fire ghters spent several hours battling two wild res that scorched around two acres of land near Littlehampton Golf Club.

Club o cials told Golf News that it was the second blaze in just a few weeks. The rst had broken out in the dunes and was thought to have been started by a disposable barbecue, while the latest spread along the footpath on the course boundary.

Despite the damage, the course remained open, with only patches of ash left behind that soon disappeared.

Fire crews arrived to nd a fast-moving blaze tearing through gorse, reeds, grassland, trees, and a large quantity of hay. Wearing breathing equipment, re ghters quickly worked to contain the ames and laboured into the night to fully extinguish them, ensuring that no hot spots were left smouldering.

Although the exact cause of the incident was not determined, authorities stated they did not believe it had started accidentally. No injuries were reported, but nearby residents were urged to keep doors and windows shut as thick smoke drifted across the area.

Brewster told Golf News the project re ects her own vision: “My High Sheri theme last year was ‘Sport for Good,’ so imagine my delight discovering the ambition of one of the country’s top golf courses is to attract thousands of children of all abilities to share what has, historically, been a hard-to-enter elite sport. I am very proud to now chair Brocket Hall’s GOLFA initiative to introduce children to golf both at this fabulous club and in their own environments, irrespective of ability.” For South eld pupils, the new Adventure Golf Course represents a breakthrough. While some children nd it di cult to travel to Brocket Hall, the installation of a course within their own school grounds means they can experience the game rst-hand. The project was funded by Brocket Hall and completed with the help of members who volunteered to clear the site.

The ribbon-cutting marks just the beginning of Brocket Hall’s wider ambitions. With support from Chapman, Brewster, and the school leadership team including headteacher Angela O’Rourke, the club hopes to expand its reach even further and continue opening up the game to children who might never otherwise have the chance to play.

■ LITTLEHAMPTON GOLF CLUB

■ LEFT TO RIGHT: DON TRUMP JR., SARAH MALONE, ERIC TRUMP, GUY KINNINGS, PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP AT THE OPENING OF THE NEW COURSE

■ 11TH HOLE ON THE NEW COURSE

■ ROGER CHAPMAN AT THE OPENING

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THE INTERVIEW

COLIN MONTGOMERIE

Candid insights from one of European golf’s most enduring champions.

ew golfers have left as lasting an imprint on the game as Colin Montgomerie. Known affectionately as “Monty,” his consistency, leadership, and flair for rising to the occasion made him one of the defining figures of European golf for over two decades.

From unforgettable Ryder Cup triumphs to rewriting the record books on the European Tour, Montgomerie’s career is a study in resilience, selfbelief, and an enduring love of the sport. In this interview with Matt Nicholson, he reflects on the turning points, rivalries, and lessons that have shaped both his career and his life.

Do you remember the moment you knew you could turn professional and make a career out of this?

I was invited for an interview with IMG at Turnberry, the Monday after the 1986 Open. I have one year of university to go and played 9 holes with two IMG executives Ian Todd, who was the president of IMG, and Peter German hoping to be offered a position in their management of professional golfers, looking after Faldo, Woosnam and Lyle I was

concentrating on my P&Q’s as you do during an interview and managed to score 29 for the back 9 at Turnberry. They then turned to me and said you are not working for us, but we will work for you. Those 2 hours changed my life.

Your success on the European Tour is legendary, what do you think was the key to your consistency over the years?

Not changing my swing, taking what I had and making it better. I was more flexible in my younger years, my clubhead speed has obviously come down, in my Callaway days I was up to 111 mph it’s down to 105mph, but 40 years on I am still doing the same, emphasizing a swing through the ball rather than at it, leading to a smooth, fluid motion

Looking back at your multiple Order of Merit wins, which one meant the most to you and why?

The first one. 1993. Seve had won it the previous year, and I will never forget him saying to me “Enjoy it Monty, it’s only on loan” I’ve never forgotten those words and the extra incentive I needed to try and continue to win it again, or for at least another year.

What was your favourite Ryder Cup moment, either as a player or captain?

Being presented with the Ryder Cup by the First Minister of Wales in 2010 to regain the Ryder Cup. One thing was having the honour of being Captain of the Team but the real job was to win. And all of my Team contributed at least half a point to the victory. Another moment came in 1997 at Valderrama. I was the last man on the course and faced a pivotal putt to secure the halfpoint we needed. I’ll never forget Seve coming up and giving me a huge hug right after, it was one of the most emotional moments of my career.

What made you such an opponent to beat in the Ryder Cup?

I hated losing far more than I ever enjoyed winning. That was my mindset. I’d win the odd event, but I never really celebrated, because my focus immediately shifted forward. Losses, though I couldn’t stand them. And that really drove me at the Ryder Cup.

I also putted extremely well in the Ryder Cup, which is crucial because a good match player must be a good putter. I always seemed to hit putts just a touch firmer there, about a foot harder. ›

Here’s a little tip for anyone reading: hit the ball a foot harder on the greens and you’ll be surprised how many more drop.

In match play, I had the freedom to do that. If it didn’t work, I lost the hole no big deal. But in stroke play, a three-putt meant a bogey, and then suddenly you’re chasing it back on the next hole. It became a bigger issue.

Does it bother you that you didn't get an o cial PGA Tour win?

I did win the Accenture World Match Play but that was an uno cial tournament in the US, beating Davis Love in the nal and Ernie in the semis, I count that as a victory, I count that as a victory because at the time they were better players than I was.

Winning The Senior PGA Championship at 51 in 2014, meant a lot to me to actually get that monkey o of my back.

You’ve had some extraordinary duels with the game’s best, which opponent brought out the very best in you?

When I joined the Tour in 1988, we had 5 out of the top 6 in the world playing week to week on the European Tour, those 5 players brought the best out in me and I had to improve to get anywhere near their standard.

DON’T CHANGE YOUR SWING. I NEVER SAID

IT WAS TEXTBOOK, I NEVER SAID IT WAS PERFECT BUT THE BEST ADVICE I HAVE BEEN GIVEN WAS DON’T CHANGE IT.

On the other side, what shot have you regretted most and wish you could play again?

You’ve hit countless shots in your career, but is there one that stands out as your favourite ever?

I have one plaque in the world of golf, which is still there to this day. The Emirates Club in Dubai.

On the 18th hole. I needed a birdie 4 to secure victory against Miguel Angel Jimenez. I was about to lay up with a six-iron but then realised if I hit my driver out the middle, I could just about get there over the lake, in front of the green. I put my driver behind the ball and had a look at it and it looked right, I don’t normally take risks in golf, but this was one paid o . It came out the middle of the club and nished no more than 10 feet away from the hole. I managed to two putt to secure victory. It was voted shot of the year in 1996.

That would have to be the last hole at Winged Foot in the 2006 U.S Open, when I made a double bogey to lose, I had to wait for my playing partner, Vijay Singh, who had hit it way left – so far left it ended up in two hospitality tents and he needed a drop. Long story short, the whole process took nine minutes. It felt like an hour, but nine minutes just to play his second shot. Meanwhile, I’m sitting there in the fairway, ready to go.

At rst, I thought it was a 7-iron. Then I changed my mind to a 6-iron. Then back to a 7-iron. After that much waiting, it’s almost impossible to stay completely positive. Unfortunately, I caught it a little heavy and left myself in the worst spot.

If there’s one shot, I wish I could have back, it’s that one. But the truth is, you have to play all 72 holes, not just 71. Looking back, I think today I would have just gone ahead and hit. Of course, we have the ‘Ready Golf’ rule now.

I wish I’d just stepped up, hit the 7-iron, and left it under the hole. The ag was tucked on the right, I fade the ball naturally, and honestly, it was probably easier to make birdie there than the six I ended up with.

How has the game of golf changed most since you rst turned professional?

Without doubt it’s the equipment. The ball and the clubs have changed golf remarkably. I am not saying all in a positive way but in length and accuracy it has changed everything, the balls y further higher and straighter through technology and the clubs have so much more forgiveness built into them, allowing players to hit harder without the fear of missing fairways.

How much do you continue to learn at this point in your career?

If I don't learn after every round of golf, it's been a complete waste. I learn something knew about

■ MOMENT TO TREASURE, MONTY CELEBRATES HIS RYDER CUP WIN AS CAPTAIN WITH RORY MCLLROY

■ MEETING MEMBERS OF THE VICTORIOUS GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND TEAM AHEAD OF THE CURTIS CUP OPENING CEREMONY AT SUNNINGDALE

■ COLIN POSES BESIDE THE COMMEMORATIVE PLAQUE THAT MARKS THE SPOT WHERE HE HIT A DRIVER OFF THE FAIRWAY ON THE PAR 5, 18TH HOLE TO SET UP HIS WIN IN THE 1996 DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC.

myself, about the ball, about the clubs, about the lies, about what to do. I learn something; and you must take something from every round of golf and I still do.

In your opinion what’s the most di cult shot in golf, and how do you approach it under pressure?

The shot between 60 and 40 yards to the pin. It’s not a full shot, it’s not a half shot, it’s a threequarter shot and so very di cult to judge the distance. Acceleration and commitment are key. Most decelerate without commitment and that’s why it is so di cult. I use light hands on the club. I grip the club at 40 per cent on these shorter shots and that takes away the stress and the strain out of the forearms, allowing me to accelerate and commit to the shot ahead.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received during your career?

Don’t change your swing. I never said it was textbook, I never said it was perfect but the best advice I have been given was don’t change it.

What’s one moment outside of golf that changed your life?

Spending time with my wife, my children, and my grandchildren. I enjoy watching the Premier League, but as a Leeds supporter it doesn’t give me a lot of peace or help me unwind.

Was there ever a point where you felt lonely or isolated during your career? How did you cope? I never felt lonely or isolated. I always had and still do have a great team of support around me. Which I am very fortunate to say.

Do you feel you’ve changed more as a person or a player over the years?

The birth of my three children, my two daughters Venetia and Olivia and my son Cameron, who’s a good golfer has recently been caddying for me.

What’s one misconception people often have about you?

I’m grumpy and have a bad temper. I’m actually not! I’ve never thrown a club; I’ve never broken a club. I’ve been upset at my own performance sometimes, but who isn’t at this game.

What do you do to unwind or nd peace when you're away from golf entirely?

Changed more as a person than a player. Life experiences change everyone. I’m de nitely more mellow.

Where do you play your golf in the UK?

My home club, Sunningdale , that's where we live and it's the most beautiful walk, it’s a beautiful spot and the has the best parkland courses in the country. It’s such a shame Turnberry isn’t on the Open rota, that’s the best links course in Britain buy a distance.

If you could give your younger self one piece of life advice, what would it be?

Be more patient, I like anyone wanted success, a little too early and I would tell my younger self to be more patient and go with the ow. Tournament golf shows you this, you can't win on Thursday, Friday or Saturday, you have to wait until Sunday afternoon. You can only lose it early in the week.

Finally, when people look back on Colin Montgomerie’s career, how would you like to be remembered in the world of golf?

A lot of people come up to me nowadays and thank me for giving them a lot of pleasure following my career and golf over the years. Also I am very proud of the courses that I have designed around the world, about 20 in total, giving opportunities to people around the world to enjoy this incredible game.

FINAL THOUGHT

Speaking with Colin Montgomerie is a reminder that greatness in sport isn’t just about trophies or records, it’s about resilience, identity, and the ability to inspire. His stories carry both humour and humility, whether re ecting on the shot of a lifetime, the patience he wishes he had in his youth, or the pride he takes in his family and course design work today. What stands out most is his clarity of purpose: he never strayed far from who he was, both as a golfer and as a person. And perhaps that’s Montgomerie’s true legacy, not just the victories and accolades, but the enduring sense that golf, at its best, is a lifelong journey of consistency, character, and connection.

MONTY BY NUMBERS

8

European Tour Order of Merit titles (a record, including seven consecutively from 1993 to 1999, and another in 2005)

31

O cial European Tour victories – more than any British player and fourth alltime overall

54

Total professional wins, spanning European Tour, senior events, and more.

5

Runner-up nishes in major championships (U.S. Open, The Open, PGA Championship).

6

Unbeaten singles points in Ryder Cup matches (6 wins, 0 losses, 2 halves) – a legendary record.

20–9–7

His all-time Ryder Cup match record (20 wins, 9 losses, 7 halves) across eight appearances.

8

Ryder Cup appearances as a player, plus captaincy in 2010

23.5

Total Ryder Cup points amassed – among the highest for Team Europe.

3

Senior major championship wins, part of a proli c post50s career

2013Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.

400+

■ METICULOUSLY RESHAPED BUNKERING SHOWCASES THE CLUB’S COMMITMENT TO ELEVATING PLAYING STANDARDS ACROSS THE COURSE

THE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE SETS NEW STANDARD

Backed by the Arora Group’s long-term vision, The Buckinghamshire has unveiled a £3 million transformation blending world-class playing surfaces, advanced practice technology, and luxury off-course amenities to set a new benchmark for private club golf in the UK. Words Matt Nicholson. Images Angus Murray.

In the heart of the English countryside, just ten miles from London Heathrow Airport, The Buckinghamshire Golf Club is making a statement. Already home to the Ladies European Tour and a stage for Open and US Women’s Open qualifying, the prestigious private members’ club is embarking on a £3 million course enhancement designed to elevate both tournament pedigree and yearround playability.

This spring marked the completion of a meticulous renovation of all 68 of the course’s rivetted bunkers. Each was rebuilt by hand, 750 tonnes of new China clay sand added to better hold steep faces, while longer fescue fringes were replaced by shorter native rye caps sharpening their visual definition and improving playability. “It’s a change we’re

■ THE PICTURESQUE PAR-THREE 18TH, FRAMED BY THE HISTORIC CLUBHOUSE ON THE LEFT

especially pleased with,” says Gerry Ivers, Managing Director of The Buckinghamshire told Golf News.

“Our greenkeeping team played an important role in this work, and the results speak for themselves.”

But the bunkers are just the beginning. A vast new drainage system over 20,000 linear metres of piped drainage and an additional 91,000 metres of secondary drainage, is being installed, alongside measures to boost water capture and storage. The aim is simple: to keep the course in top condition even through the increasingly wet winters brought by climate change.

A striking new championship tee now graces the par-three 18th, a hole famed for its backdrop along the River Colne. The first tee area has been reimagined too, with a compact warm-up putting green for fourballs to prepare before play. And soon, the practice range will undergo a complete transformation, introducing state-of-the-art performance technology, reshaped target zones, and pristine new hitting surfaces.

The investment follows the Arora Group’s £10 million restoration of the club’s 17th-century manor house in 2024. The clubhouse now offers seven sumptuous bedroom suites for members from London and further afield, melding heritage charm with contemporary luxury.

“Our members’ playing experience is paramount,” Ivers affirms. “With the wonderful support from our owners, the Arora Group, we’re ensuring that The Buckinghamshire’s facilities on and off the course remain at the highest level.”

“Great golf clubs start with great golf courses – and we are delighted to present our members with an enhanced experience and a golf course

that has never looked or played better” Designed in 1992 by the late John Jacobs, a legendary coach and course architect, The Buckinghamshire continues to evolve without losing sight of its heritage. For discerning golfers seeking immaculate fairways, worldclass amenities, and easy access to London, this latest chapter promises to make the club more exceptional than ever.

■ PRISTINE FAIRWAYS, MAINTAINED TO THE HIGHEST STANDARDS, ENSURE A WORLD-CLASS EXPERIENCE

MASHIE Golf Marks 10 Years anniversary

MASHIE Golf, one of the UK’s leading private golf memberships, is celebrating a major milestone this year as it marks 10 years of delivering premium gol ng experiences, exclusive events, and a thriving member community.

Founded in 2015, MASHIE has evolved into a household name within the golf lifestyle space, giving its members access to over 155 prestigious partner venues across the UK and beyond. Over the past decade, it has established itself not just as a membership, but as a vibrant community built around a shared passion for the game.

From championship courses to luxury golf days, MASHIE has become synonymous with unforgettable moments on and o the course. The company has championed innovation in the modern golf membership model, while fostering camaraderie, competition, and lifelong friendships among its members.

Triple Ace Triumph: East He s Golfer Lands

Three Holes-in-One in Just Three Months

Peter Sawyer has pulled o a remarkable feat that most players can only dream of, not one, not two, but three holes-in-one in the space of just three months.

The 4-handicap member of East Herts Golf Club has been in rare form, producing a run of aces that underline both his skill and a fair slice of gol ng fortune.

The run began on home turf at East Herts GC, where Sawyer struck a crisp 9-iron into the 152-yard par-3 15th hole. He followed that up at Welwyn Garden City GC, holing out a 5-iron on the demanding 204-yard 14th.

The crowning moment came only yesterday at the renowned Woburn Golf Club’s Dukes Course, where he sent a 6-iron straight into the cup at the 185-yard 12th hole, completing an astonishing hat-trick of aces.

This latest success brings Sawyer’s career tally to four holes-in-one, all achieved in just seven years of playing golf. For context, the odds of an amateur golfer making a single ace are estimated at around 12,500 to 1, making Sawyer’s streak all the more extraordinary.

Re ecting on the achievement, Sawyer told Golf News:

“To get three in such a short space of time still feels surreal. Every golfer dreams of making one, so to have four already is pretty special. Hopefully there are more to come”

For Sawyer, though, the run of form is less about records and more about savouring the moments:

“Whether it’s at my home club or a place like Woburn, those shots are ones I’ll never forget. Golf can be a tough game, but it certainly gives you days like these that make it all worthwhile.”

Adding to the celebrations, MASHIE’s ambassadors, six-time European Tour winner David Howell and rising DP World Tour talent Dan Bradbury, have played an important role in representing the brand’s commitment to excellence and its connection to the professional game. Their involvement re ects the unique blend of heritage and fresh ambition that de nes MASHIE’s approach.

“Reaching our 10-year anniversary is a proud and humbling moment,” said Nick Hovey, Managing Director and Founder of MASHIE. “What began as a passion project has grown into a vibrant gol ng community that continues to exceed all expectations. I’m incredibly grateful to our members, partners, and host venues for their unwavering support and belief in what we’re building. MASHIE has always been about more than just golf, it’s about shared experiences, lifelong friendships, and pushing the boundaries of what a modern golf membership can be. Here’s to the next decade of innovation, enjoyment, and excellence.”

With its growing in uence, high-pro le ambassadors, and an ever-expanding portfolio of experiences, MASHIE is setting its sights rmly on the next 10 years, ensuring its members continue to enjoy the very best the game has to o er.

For further information about MASHIE Golf visit www.mashiegolf.co.uk

Golf Prodigy, 10, Makes History at Essex Schools Championship

Chelmsford’s own Evie Crowhurst is proving age is no barrier to gol ng greatness.

At just 10 years old, the junior member of Chelmsford Golf Club stunned the eld at the Essex Schools Golf Handicap Championship, held at Colne Valley Golf Club, claiming the Girls Division title in her debut appearance.

Facing more than 65 competitors from across all age groups, Evie, the youngest player in the tournament, posted an outstanding 41 points.

Her performance saw her top both the Under-12 and Under-14 categories, and nish fourth overall. It is believed she is the youngest female champion in the event’s history.

Evie’s latest triumph adds to an already glittering junior career. She represented England at last year’s IMG Academy Junior World Championships in San Diego after qualifying aged just nine, and has multiple wins on the US Kids Tour across North, South, and East London.

She has also teed it up at the US Kids European Championships in Scotland, and has earned a coveted spot

in the Faldo Futures Final at The Belfry during the British Masters, an event whittled down from over 1,000 entrants and hosted by six-time major winner Sir Nick Faldo.

Under the guidance of her coach, former European Tour professional Lloyd Kennedy, Evie has been making her mark in Essex Junior Opens, frequently as the youngest girl in the eld.

She has placed in all four events entered this season, including two runner-up nishes, a tie for rst, and a standout win at Stock Brook Manor with a net score of eight under par.

Now playing o a handicap of 15, Evie’s rapid rise showcases not only her exceptional talent and dedication, but also the growing pro le of girls’ sport.

She hopes her story will encourage more young girls to take up the game.

“I just want to inspire others to try golf,” she said. “If I can do it, maybe they’ll give it a go too.”

With her sights set rmly on the future, Chelmsford’s gol ng prodigy looks poised to keep rewriting the record books.

■ PETER SAWYER

STILL SWINGING

From forehand smash to the most finessed of fades, Andy Murray is rapidly discovering that he possesses a swing adept to more than one competitive environment.

As the three-time Grand Slam champion settles into retirement, Golf News finds the Scot embracing golf not just as pastime, but as the next major chapter in a life defined by passion, precision and relentless self-improvement.

For most of his adult life, Andy Murray’s days began with drills, rehab, ight delays and forehands. These days, they often start with something a little more peaceful: a fresh tee box, soft morning light and the low hum of a graphite shaft sweeping through the air. The two-time Wimbledon champ has found a new swerve: golf.

“When I stepped back a bit from the tennis grind, I found myself drawn to golf more and more,” he begins. “It’s one of those sports that demands precision but doesn’t wreck your joints quite the same way as tennis! It gave me a kind of outlet I was missing. The challenge is still there, but it’s wrapped up in a di erent way, which is cool.”

For the 38-year-old, golf isn’t so much a new pursuit as a rediscovered one. He’s always enjoyed the game, albeit never previously had the time nor energy to really dig in. Now, freed from the perpetual cycle of tennis tour demands, he’s committed to improving.

“I’ve had a few good rounds. I’ve also been tracking my fairways hit, and that’s de nitely improving. It’s the sort of thing I get obsessed with - the data, the metrics, the trends. I treat it like I treated training blocks in tennis: set targets, review, adjust.”

That training mindset has not gone unnoticed. At the BMW PGA Championship Pro-Am at Wentworth last year, Murray arrived visibly nervous. “I couldn’t really feel my arms or

legs,” he admitted. Yet he soon found his rhythm, producing a solid showing that impressed fellow competitors, including playing partner Robert MacIntyre. “He was good,” said the Scottish pro, who this year has moved into world’s top 10 for the rst time. “For someone that hasn’t played much, I thought he was really solid.”

Murray’s performance, and his mindset, are one of the reasons Callaway Golf came knocking. The partnership, Murray says, happened organically. “I’d been playing with their clubs anyway and really liked the feel of them. We had a few conversations and realised we shared the same mindset: focus, discipline, constant improvement.” Murray, who plays his golf at Beaverbrook in Surrey, says the relationship felt like the right t from the start.

“It’s not just about sticking a logo on a cap. They’ve actually helped me understand the tech side of the game a lot better, which I nd fascinating. Plus I’ve always been a bit of a gear nerd, so it suits me.”

Now part of Callaway’s European ambassador team, Murray narrates videos, tests new gear, and provides input on how to draw more players, especially youngsters looking to improve their game.

Back in March he voiced their ‘Get Sprung’ campaign, a lm celebrating golfers waking from winter hibernation and heading joyfully back onto the course. It’s a world away from Centre Court, but the emotional pay-o is curiously similar. And yet Murray is clear – he isn’t trying to become a professional golfer…

yet! “I’ve got a lot of respect for the pros, and I know how much work it takes to even get close to that level.

“Right now, I’m just enjoying the game and learning as I go. I’ve played a couple of Pro-Am events and loved them, but I think for me it’s more about the joy of improving and being around great players, rather than any desire to try to emulate in golf what I did in tennis!”

Even so, he’s not shy about setting targets. “I want to become a scratch golfer,” he said recently. “I’ve always loved playing golf, but because of issues with my back, I hadn’t played for ve or six years. Now with a bit more time and exibility in my schedule, I admit it’s something I’m taking seriously.”

■ FELLOW SCOTS: ROBERT MACINTYRE AND ANDY MURRAY

I WANT TO BECOME A SCRATCH GOLFER

What helps for the two-time Olympic gold medallist is the employment of the same analytical approach that carried his tennis to such heights. He also knows how and where to scrutinise the area in which he needs to improve most. “Putting… without question!” he laughs. “In tennis you’ve got a bit more time to build momentum, but in golf, one miss on the green and it’s a double bogey.

“I’ve been working hard on pace and consistency, but putting is still the bit that unravels me now and then. That and club selection… sometimes I still think like a tennis player, just wanting to smack it!”.

It’s a fair point. While tennis is about reactive agility, golf can be a slower, more psychological form of torture. “What’s surprised me most is how mental both games are. In tennis, you’ve got split seconds to react, but you’re always adjusting… to the opponent, the surface, the weather, the crowd. Golf’s slower, but in a weird way, and that makes it harder sometimes.

“You’ve got all this time to think… too much time, maybe,” he admits. “The pressure builds before every shot, and there’s no one else to blame when it goes wrong.”

Sure enough, the former world number one who, as well as those three tennis Grand Slam titles (the US Open in 2012, then Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016) also made it to the semi- nals of a further ve, has always been drawn to players who thrive under pressure. “I used to watch Tiger Woods, like most people my age. There was just something otherworldly about how dominant he was, mentally and physically.

“And I hesitate to use the word ‘boring’ but it was almost scripted at how consistent he was all the time. There is nothing wrong with quietly grinding out win after win!”

He also namechecks Luke Donald and Lee Westwood as golfers whose temperament and focus always struck a chord. “I think I was drawn to the more composed, analytical players, maybe because I could relate to that from my tennis background.”

The similarities between golf and other sports are not lost on him either, especially when it comes to high-performance habits.

A recent round with Gareth Bale o ered another glimpse into how competitors from other specialisms can translate that ability to the fairway. “Gareth’s game is seriously tidy, not just ‘decent-for-a-footballer’, but properly good. Y ou can see how much time and e ort he’s put into it.

“For me, that was eye-opening because it reminded me that top-level athletes tend to carry the same mentality over, no matter the sport. Guys like Gareth have this ability to focus on detail, and I’ve tried to adopt that same approach with my golf.”

It’s not all about metrics and mechanics, though. Murray has come to love the wider

culture of the game: the camaraderie, the solitude, the subtle variations between courses. His round at the Old Course at St Andrews this year stands out. “I’d been there before, but not properly… not with the same appreciation. This time, I took my time. The history, the views, the atmosphere… it felt like being inside a living museum. And I had a decent round too, which helped. That’s going to stay with me.”

Physical limitations do play a role in how much and how often he plays. His surgically repaired hip holds up well during the swing but can ache after long walks. “Walking 18 holes repeatedly –especially on sloped terrain –can be a bit of a strain. I just have to be smart with how I structure my week. I do some recovery work after longer sessions, same as I would with tennis, but overall it’s been easier on the body than I expected.”

The fact his dad caddied for him during the Pro-Am at Wentworth only made the experience more special. As ever with golf, it’s often the little moments, not the leaderboard, that linger. And that seems to be the space Murray now occupies - competitive, but content.

That’s not to say he doesn’t mind a laugh at his own expense, though. After his swing was critiqued online by those on X, Murray quipped, “Huge thanks to all the amateur golfers on social media for their constructive criticism of my golf swing. Much appreciated.” The wit is dry, but the point stands: he’s learning. And he’s enjoying it, as well as relishing the opportunity to keep his body moving, sharpen his mind, and perhaps chase perfection all over again.

“Golf’s not just a hobby,” he says. “It’s become something I really care about. I want to get better, not just play around.”

■ SELF CONFESSED GOLF GEEK ANDY MURRAY, CAN OFTEN BE SEEN AT CALLAWAY’S FITTING CENTRE IN CHESSINGTON

■ ANDY LINES UP PUTT ALONGSIDE HIS CADDIE AND FATHER WILLIAM MURRAY AT WENTWORTH

■ MURRAY WILL BRING HIS PASSION TO THE FAIRWAYS

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STORY BEHIND THE PIC

TIGER WOODS | BURJ AL ARAB | DUBAI, MARCH 2, 2004

In sport, there are moments that blur the line between spectacle and competition, when an athlete steps beyond the usual arenas of play and enters a stage where performance becomes a piece of theatre. One such moment came in the Spring of 2004, when Tiger Woods, already the most recognisable figure in golf and probably in sport, stood high above Dubai and struck golf balls from the rooftop helipad of the world’s only seven star hotel The Burj Al Arab. Captured through the lens of the world’s leading golf photographer David Cannon, the image has endured as one of the most striking promotional shots in modern sport.

The setting was as dramatic as it was improbable. The Burj Al Arab, a sail-shaped marvel of engineering, rises more than 300 meters above the Arabian Gulf, its rooftop helipad a disk suspended seemingly in mid-air. Built not as a golf tee box but as a landing platform for helicopters, it became at least for a day a golfer’s driving range. Woods, preparing for the 2004 Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club, was invited to take part in this publicity event to mark his appearance at the tournament.

With the sea breeze cutting across the helipad and the city skyline stretching into the desert, the scene was both surreal and symbolic. Woods, in his athletic prime at age 28, was more than just a competitor; he was the face of global golf. His swing, honed in practice ranges and fairways worldwide, now found an improbable backdrop: 700 feet above the water, no gallery of fans in sight, only the vast expanse of sky and sea to witness the flight of the ball.

David Cannon’s photograph freezes this marriage of sport and spectacle. In it, Woods is in mid-swing, balanced and composed, his figure dwarfed by the scale of the helipad yet commanding the scene with the power of his presence. The geometry of the shot, the circular pad, the sharp lines of the hotel’s architecture, and the endless horizon frames Woods as both athlete and icon.

For Dubai, the moment was also emblematic of its growing ambition. In the early 2000s, the emirate was investing heavily in golf as part of its global sporting portfolio. Hosting the Desert Classic drew elite players, but a stunt like this elevated the event into headlines far beyond the sports pages. Woods, the world’s No. 1, hitting shots from one of the most photographed buildings in the world, created an instant image that spoke not only of golf but of Dubai’s rising stature.

Over two decades on, the picture retains its resonance. It is a reminder of the way sport can transcend its boundaries, how a simple act, hitting a golf ball, can be transformed into a symbol of daring, glamour, and global reach. For Tiger Woods, it was one of many memorable moments in a career defined by records and titles. For Cannon, it was proof of photography’s power to turn an assignment into an enduring icon. And for golf, it was a day when the game quite literally rose above the course.

DAN BRADBURY’S TOUR DIARY

In the latest instalment of his exclusive column in GolfNews, Dan Bradbury re ects on a somewhat frustrating Summer Swing on the DP World Tour, which has been bookended by strong results in between a run of near misses.

It’s been a tale of highs and lows for me on the DP World Tour this summer. When I look back at the run of tournaments I’ve played, the results don’t tell the whole story. On paper, four missed cuts from six events doesn’t look like the kind of form you want at this stage of the season, but then you see a top-three nish at the Italian Open, a top-20 at the British Masters, and a couple of ashes of really good golf in between, and it all starts to feel a little more positive. Golf rarely runs in a straight line –and this summer has been a perfect reminder of that.

After the Dutch Open at the start of June, where I nished seventh, and then Italy, where I came third, I really thought I’d found a groove. Both results came with a mix of good play and a fair dose of frustration. In Italy, for example, I started hot – ve under through seven holes of the opening round – and just kept myself in the mix all week. But even walking away with my best nish in a long time, I wasn’t entirely satis ed. I made some poor decisions, like hitting a conservative seven-iron o the tee on a drivable par four and somehow managing to nd the water. On Sunday, I couldn’t buy a putt on the back nine, yet there I was on the leaderboard, shaking my head at what might have been. That’s golf: sometimes you feel like you’ve underachieved even when the result looks pretty good on paper.

The frustrating thing about this game is that when you’re playing well, you’ve got to take advantage of it. Momentum doesn’t always stick around. Guys like Kristo er Rietan and Marco Penge have had a great run in the last few months or so where everything clicks – a win, a second place, a string of top-10s – and that short run of hot form can change an entire season, and potentially the future direction of your career. That’s the mentality: make hay while the sun shines. I’d love to have bottled that Italian form and carried it forward, but golf doesn’t work that way.

MID-SUMMER RECHARGE

One thing that has made a real di erence this year is the freedom of having my card secured for next season after my win in France last year. It’s changed the way I’ve been able to approach my scheduling. Normally, if there’s a big event on the calendar, even if you don’t love the course or it doesn’t t your game, you force yourself to play because you need the rankings points. This year I’ve been able to step back, skip the odd week, and trust that it won’t cost me. That freedom has been invaluable. It’s also given me a bit of time to recharge. I took my girlfriend on a break to Corfu in July, and it was great to not have to think about golf at all for a week or so. I also skipped the European Masters at Crans last month, as it’s not a course I have played well on in the past. I spent the time practicing and playing at home instead. I had a game at Alwoodley with some friends and made nine birdies in a casual round and it kind of reminded why I love the game. No stress, just playing shots. It also reinforced something important: I’ve always played my best golf when I’ve separated

practice from competition. On the range, I’ll grind – drills, numbers, Trackman data, wedge testing, the works, but when I get out on the course, I want freedom. I don’t want to stand on the tee thinking about swing planes or wrist angles. I just want to play golf. That’s why I avoid using training aids – they clutter my head. Some guys like them, but for me, I need to keep it simple and focus on feel.

That said, technology has become a bigger part of my routine. I invested in my own Trackman GC Quad last year, which I bought with some of the winnings from the French Open, and it’s been great to have it to hand for when I’m out on tour or working on my game at home. Knowing my carry numbers down to the yard, especially with wedges, is huge. Sometimes it only takes one well-judged shot in the right moment to pay back that investment.

DAN’S EQUIPMENT SET UP

Driver: Ping G440

LST (9°)

Fairway Woods: Ping G440 3, 5

Irons: Ping Blueprint

S (4-PW)

Wedges: Ping S159 (50°, 56°, 60°)

Putter: Ping PLD

Custom Oslo XL

Ball: Titleist Pro V1x

Apparel: Ping

Shoes: Nike

DAN BRADBURY FACT FILE

Age: 25

Lives: Wake eld, Yorkshire Turned Pro: 2022

World Ranking: 221 Race to Dubai Ranking: 86 (2024)

DP World Tour Starts: 79 Wins: 2 (‘22

JoBurg Open, ‘24 Open de France)

Top 10s: 8 Cuts Made: 41 Prize Money: €2.21m

in the wind. Raised tees and greens, combined with strong winds, made some holes unplayable at times. Still, it was in immaculate condition, and the scoring re ected the challenge: if you were under par, you’d had a good week. I had a few brief look at the second course that has just opened there and it looks a stunner. I’m sure the tour will come back there one day – but hopefully when it’s less windy!

The Scottish Open at Renaissance was another story. I just didn’t play well enough there, and the greens, with their mixed grasses and growth patterns, added to the di culty. Being just a week before The Open, it was a strong eld and it was just one of those weeks where I couldn’t get anything going.

One highlight of the summer was getting the chance to play in my rst PGA Tour event – the Barracuda Championship in California. It’s a co-sanctioned event between the PGA Tour and the DP World Tour and about 50 of us Europeans travelled over. I’d always wanted to experience an event in the States, and the set up in Tahoe in the mountains was breathtaking. The week itself didn’t go how I’d hoped – my game just wasn’t sharp enough – but I loved being back in America. I went to university there and still miss aspects of that lifestyle. I took the opportunity to catch up with some old friends in Texas on my way back and it was great to see some familiar faces over there. The PGA Tour has an undeniable pull: the prize money, the atmosphere, and the golf courses, which kind of suit my style of play. That said, the DP World Tour still has things the PGA Tour doesn’t – the variety of courses and playing conditions, the history, and the friendships – but I’d be lying if I said the nancial side of the PGA Tour wasn’t attractive.

BELFRY BOOST

Of course, practicing in the UK has its challenges. At Alwoodley, I’m often hitting o mats and using two-piece range balls, which makes it hard to get a true picture of ball ight and spin. It’s not like Dubai, or some other venues where you can practice on pristine grass year-round. I’ve thought about basing myself somewhere warm over the winter, and I’ll often tag on an extra week when we’re in the Middle East swing in February and March, but I’m not sure I could live abroad full-time. I like the seasons here in the UK, I like being home with friends and family, and as much as I love Dubai for a visit, I don’t want sunshine every day.

FROM SCOTLAND TO THE STATES

I played in both the DP World Tour’s Scottish events in July, the Nexo Championship at Trump International and the Scottish Open at Renaissance, although both sadly ended in missed cuts. The Trump course was stunning –every tee box felt like an Instagram moment – but some of the design elements didn’t quite work

Back in Europe, the British Masters at The Belfry gave me a much-needed boost. Having my coach, Steve Robinson, with me that week made a huge di erence. We didn’t overhaul the swing – sometimes it’s not about big changes, but little reminders and sharpening things up. The real breakthrough was with the putter. I’d been struggling with too much arc in my stroke, especially on short putts, and it was becoming a bit of a struggle. By making the setup a little more upright and simplifying the motion to more of a straight-back, straight-through stroke, I suddenly felt freed up. For the rst time in months, I trusted myself on the greens. That change alone might have saved my season.

FINAL PUSH FOR POINTS

Looking ahead, I’ve got some big weeks coming up – the Irish Open, The PGA Championship at Wentworth, then defending my French Open title. Unfortunately, it’s a di erent venue than last year, but I’ve heard good things about La Bretesche and I’m looking forward to going there and hopefully putting up a good defence of my title.

Those are three brilliant events, and they’ll go a long way toward deciding whether I can push into the playo s. Top 70 is the magic number to make it to Abu Dhabi. A good nish at one of those tournaments could change everything. I know my game is close – it’s about piecing it all together over four rounds, staying patient, and trusting the work.

Three Golf News readers had the chance to relive the golden days of golf, attending the ISPS HANDA Senior Open at the historic Sunningdale Golf Club, and what a day it turned out to be.

All three, Paul Bennett, Chris Meldrum and Paul Smyth, hail from Sussex and shared a deep passion for the game, but each had a di erent story to tell about their return to live tournament golf.

Paul Bennett: “It had been 12 years since my last event, the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth. Before that, it was the 1994 Panasonic European Open at East Sussex National. I remember Ernie Els just starting out on Tour back then. It’s amazing to now see him as a legend among legends.”

Chris Meldrum: “My last proper experience at a live event was the 2008 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, when Padraig Harrington clinched back-to-back titles. That was unforgettable and I had no idea this trip would bring back so many memories.”

Paul Smyth: “Despite being a huge golf fan and watching the game on TV, I’d never actually been to a tournament in person. This was my rst ever and it completely exceeded expectations.”

But it wasn’t just the stars of the senior tour that drew them in. None of the trio had ever been to Sunningdale, a course they’d heard so much about over the years.

After a smooth entry into the grounds, the group strolled through the tented village and made their way to the practice range, watching legends warm up.

A relaxed breakfast later, it was time to hit the course starting with a morning group packed with icons: Ernie Els, Bernhard Langer, Ian Woosnam, Paul Lawrie, José María Olazábal, Darren Clarke, Miguel Ángel Jiménez, Ángel Cabrera, Thomas Bjørn, and many more.

Paul Smyth: “In the morning we walked the whole course, getting so close to so many major champions. I couldn’t believe how good they still are. The highlight?

Ángel Cabrera’s second shot on the 14th..he was deep in the trees left of the fairway and somehow managed

England win Girls’ & Boys’ Home Internationals for a fi h year

On a dramatic nal day, all eyes were on England and Scotland as the two battled it out for the combined trophy for a second successive year.

And, in an identical nish to the 2024 tournament, England would again beat Scotland 4-3 in the foursomes and 9-5 in singles to edge their bordering neighbours 13-8 for the title.

The Red Rose, therefore, enjoyed a memorable week in the Emerald Isle, with the girls topping the leader board with three wins from three and the boys nishing second behind Scotland.

The result means England has won all ve events since the amalgamated tournament began in 2021.

Starting on Tuesday, England also secured a 13-8 victory over Wales and an emphatic 14.5-6.5 vic-tory over Ireland 24 hours later, before their nal game triumph.

A Day to Remember at the Sunningdale

to draw the ball around the branches and onto the green for a tapin birdie. I could never dream of pulling off a shot like that!”

Chris Meldrum: “My first thought was how breathtaking the whole place is. You see Sunningdale on TV, but it’s nothing like being there in person. The purple heather, the immaculate fairways, it’s like the UK’s answer to Augusta National. And the distance these guys hit the ball? Unreal.”

Paul Bennett: “The greens were like snooker tables, just perfect. Seeing the players up close, they’re so much tter than I imagined. Langer hasn’t aged a bit since I saw him in ’94. And the way they strike their irons..it’s just next level.”

After a quick lunch and some friendly chats with other fans, the trio returned to the course for the afternoon wave, featuring even more stars: Colin Montgomerie, Padraig Harrington, Retief Goosen, Fred Funk, Justin Leonard, Michael Campbell, Rich Beem, Chris DiMarco, and defending champion K.J. Choi.

Paul Smyth: “Monty’s swing is just so smooth; it was a joy to watch. Seeing Justin Leonard with his wife and grown-up kids walking alongside him was great to see. My shot of the afternoon? Harrington’s 3-wood o the 10th tee pure class, it was no surprise to see him go on and take the trophy”

Chris Meldrum: “Being that close to so many legends in one day was incredible. Harrington looks unbelievably t in person, and his pre-shot routine is intense! I’d played in a proam with Paul Broadhurst a few years ago, so I made sure to cheer him on when he came through.”

Paul Bennett: “It was such a great day. I loved seeing Monty with his Team Europe Ryder Cup bag, what a touch. Goosen’s swing is still a thing of beauty. And like the others said, Padraig’s 3-wood will stick with me forever.”

For all three, the experience was nothing short of perfect.

“The players, the course, the people, the marshals everything had this relaxed, garden-party atmosphere,” said Paul Bennett. “And will we wait another decade before seeing live golf again? Absolutely not.”

The trio has already started planning to make this an annual outing proof that great golf and unforgettable memories go hand in hand.

“We’re incredibly proud of the team this week, said Assistant Women’s Performance Manager In-dia Clyburn. “Everyone played their part, with both sides winning important points in some incredibly tight matches.

“I played in a few of these when I was coming through the system, and I know how great it feels to win after a long three days of golf.”

Jamie O’Connor, Assistant Performance Manager, added: “I’m delighted we were able to secure the Home Internationals and I want to thank everyone who played their part.

“The women’s team were fantastic this week, and their continued success in this competition is amazing. I would like to congratulate them all on their amazing achievement.

“Regarding the boys, I’m incredibly proud of our e ort this week, and we’ll take a lot of learnings as a team. It’s been a valuable week.”

Picking up 23.5 points out of a possible 27, the girls stamped their authority in the singles. Winning 6.5 out of 9 in the foursomes, the group would only lose 1 singles match out of 18, adding a mammoth 17 points to the total.

The girls’ staggering run of Home International titles continues, making it seven in a row since 2016 and 15 wins from the last 16 tournaments, with only Ireland in 2016 halting the run.

■ THE TRIO GET CLOSE TO WINNER PADRAIG HARRINGTON ON THE 10TH TEE

■ LEFT TO RIGHT, PAUL BENNETT, CHRIS MELDRUM, AND PAUL SMYTH TAKE IN THE MOMENT OUTSIDE THE ICONIC SUNNINGDALE CLUBHOUSE

■ ÁNGEL CABRERA PULLS OFF THE SHOT OF THE DAY ON THE 14TH

■ MONTY SPORTS HIS TEAM EUROPE BAG, WITH SON CAMERON CADDYING

HUGE INVESTMENT TRANSFORMS WESTERHAM

HIGHLY RESPECTED GOLF COURSE ARCHITECT ALAN WALKER HAS ALSO BEEN INVOLVED IN THE PROJECT DURING THIS PERIOD

estled amid the rolling woodlands of the North Downs, Westerham Golf Club has built a reputation as one of the South East’s most popular golfing destinations since opening back in 1997.

However, the Altonwood Board, which own and operate 5 courses in Surrey and Kent, saw an opportunity to significantly improve an already successful venue at Westerham.

Investment of £2 million pounds during the past four years has seen the course move to a new level. Managing Director Simon Hodsdon said “we have a unique opportunity with the site here and the aim is to offer quality golf for 12 months of the year.”

Working alongside John Nicholson, an industry renowned tree management expert, a five-year plan was devised to improve the course. The Plan is in its final year, with the playing corridors widened to create a fairer, more rewarding course. Stunning views have been created and playing surfaces have improved all year round. The work has uncovered thousands of pine trees across the course, many of which were hidden by unmanaged woodland. It really has invigorated the site, and feedback has been universally positive.

Highly respected golf course architect Alan

Walker has also been involved in the project during this period, advising on all aspects of the improvements.

Ten new tees have been constructed and are now in play, providing larger, improved surfaces with more tee positions and additional length on some holes. It means that even during the winter the tees are in great condition, and any temporary surfaces are a thing of the past.

Buggy paths run the length of the course, and these have been resurfaced throughout. This has significantly improved the experience of buggy and trolley users, as well as tidying the course. Further investment has just been made in a fleet of new lithium powered buggies.

The driving range has recently been extended to 15 bays with Huxley matting and Toptracer technology added, to enhance Westerham’s already first-class practice facilities. Together with an 8-acre short game area, practice bunker & putting green, provide the perfect opportunity to warm up before your round.

Alongside the main course, Westerham offers the 9-hole Churchill course, a fun par-three layout which enables juniors and adults alike to develop their skills before progressing to the main course, while also providing good players with a chance to sharpen up their wedge game.

Further investment is planned as the business is about to commence on a bunker

enhancement programme which will happen over the next 2 years. Reconstruction of the existing bunkers will take place and then liner and eco turf revetting will be added. Premium China Clay white sand will be used which with the liner will retain its colour and remain free from stone and weed contamination. A small number of strategic bunkers will be added as well as removal of some obsolete hazards.

An audit of the club’s irrigation system will be taking place this winter with investigation into an upgrade to full fairway irrigation being planned. “We are delighted that the Board have backed this investment. The feedback from golfers has been universally positive and this has been reinforced by the ever increasing popularity of the venue” says Simon Hodsdon.

Another part of Westerham’s appeal lies in its ability to deliver a complete day out. The spacious clubhouse sits proudly overlooking the 9th and 18th greens, with its sun-drenched terrace a favourite spot in summer, perfect for a post-round drink while watching groups come home.

Inside, golfers and guests find a warm welcome. The restaurant and the recently refurbished spike bar serve everything from hearty breakfasts to refined dining, with menus that celebrate fresh, seasonal produce. Whether it’s a quick sandwich between rounds or a celebratory dinner after a competition, the service and setting always hit the mark. The clubhouse also doubles as a sought-after events venue. With panoramic views, elegant function rooms and impeccable service, Westerham has become a favourite for weddings, parties, well-being days and corporate events.

Westerham’s 7-day membership is closed with a waiting list in place. The limited number of membership spaces means green fees are available throughout the week, including weekend mornings. The current peak rate of £75 offers excellent value for money and times are offered from 06:00 during the summer months.

With all the facilities on offer, Westerham is ideally set up to deal with golf days of any size. Corporate Golf and Well Being Days have proved very popular, with companies such as NBC, BDW Homes, Hiscox, QBE, London Stock Exchange & Barclays regularly entertaining clients & staff.

Accessible from London and all corners of the south-east, make it a go-to venue for green fee payers and golf days alike.

For more details, including corporate golf, society packages and tee time bookings, visit westerhamgc.co.uk or call 01959 567100 to speak to a member of the team.

OTHER ALTONWOOD GROUP CLUBS

SURREY NATIONAL GC

www.surreynational.co.uk | 01883 344555

Covering in excess of 200 acres, Surrey National is a Championship course approaching 7,000 yards from the Championship tees and 6,300 from the daily play tees. The course meanders through dramatic rolling countryside, populated by thousands of mature trees which further enhance the appeal of the setting. Surrey National welcomes visitors, corporate days and societies to play its course and enjoy hospitality in its magnificent clubhouse.

WOLDINGHAM GC

www.woldinghamgc.co.uk | 01883 653501

Nestled in the serenity of the Halliloo Valley just north of Woldingham, in the heart of the Surrey North Downs, The excellent course and facilities have become a popular destination for both golfers and events planners. The course is built on a chalk base, excellent for drainage which, together with the USGA specification greens, allows year-round play.

GODSTONE GC

www.godstone-golfclub.co.uk | 01883 742333

Located just 800 yards from junction 6 of the M25, Godstone Golf Club is a 9 hole, full length course in excess of 3000 yards. Three new lakes, linked by a freshwater stream, add interest and a degree of difficulty to the layout and, with three tees serving each hole, it is possible to play the 9 holes twice with varying tee positions. The quality of the holes and course is exceptional and has been welcomed by regular golfers as well as those just taking up the game.

The Addington embarked on a project with Architects Clayton, De Vries & Pont in 2020 to restore the course back to its original grandeur and reinstate the strategic design principles from 1913. The key aim is to restore one of the finest Golden Age courses in The British Isles and couple it with first-class hospitality and service. This work will see The Addington once again regarded amongst the best inland courses of Great Britain.

ROCK ON TOMMY

After years of near misses and Ryder Cup heroics, Tommy Fleetwood finally lifted his first PGA Tour trophy at the 2025 Tour Championship, securing the FedEx Cup in style. A win that felt as much for golf’s fans as it did for the man himself.

At 34 years old, Southport’s own Tommy Fleetwood has long been admired not just for his style on the links, but for the genuine warmth he brings to the game. His motto, instilled by his father “Person rst, golfer second,” is more than a catchphrase; it’s an ethos that de ned his career and culminated spectacularly at the 2025 Tour Championship. With that win, he nally closed a 164-tournament drought on the PGA Tour, landing the FedEx Cup and a $10 million payday in a single memorable week.

A TRAIL OF NEAR MISSES, A TRIUMPH OF PERSISTENCE

Fleetwood’s road to his rst PGA Tour victory was paved with heartbreaks and remarkable consistency. By August 2025, he had achieved 30 top- ve nishes and 44 top-10s without sealing the deal in a single PGA Tour win. In the past year alone, he had come heartbreakingly close at both the Travelers Championship bogeying the nal hole and losing by a stroke and the FedEx St. Jude Championship, leading by two with three holes to play only to falter late.

Yet it was that relentless pursuit, that combination of resilience and composure, that made his eruption at East Lake Golf Club feel like destiny. On August 24, 2025, he carded a nal-round 68 to nish, 18, three strokes clear of Patrick Cantlay and Russell Henley, and lifted not just the Tour Championship trophy, but the FedEx Cup.

CHARACTER IN THE SPOTLIGHT

What made the moment even more poignant was not just the win, but how Fleetwood handled it. The scene at East Lake was lled with heartfelt emotion, an embrace with his stepson, gratitude toward his caddie Ian Finnis, and recognition from peers that echoed around the sporting world. “I’ve been a PGA Tour winner for a long time, it’s just always been in my mind. To nally do it in reality feels great,” he quipped with wry charm.

Tributes poured in from all corners: Tiger Woods praised his perseverance and determination; LeBron James, Caitlin Clark, and other high-pro le admirers celebrated the breakthrough as more than just a golf story –it was one of humanity, patience, and joy.

“This win feels like a triumph for the broader gol ng community,” one columnist observed, noting how Fleetwood’s guile under pressure and authenticity struck a chord far beyond leaderboards.

FEDEX CUP: A DOUBLE CROWN

From a stats perspective, Fleetwood’s victory will go down in history. He became the rst golfer in the FedEx Cup era to secure his inaugural PGA Tour win at the Tour Championship. Navigating a recalibrated playo format – where players begin at even par instead of staggered, startingstroke handicaps, he displayed both savvy and steadiness, turning what had been a lingering frustration into a de ning triumph.

RYDER CUP: A EUROPE DRIVER, AGAIN AND AGAIN

Fleetwood is also a Ryder Cup stalwart for Team Europe. He’s been selected three times, 2018, 2021, and 2023 and has maintained an impressive individual record: 7 wins, 3 losses, and 2 ties, yielding a winning percentage of around 66.7 %.

His Ryder Cup debut in 2018 at Le Golf National was electric. Paired with Francesco Molinari, the duo went 4–0, the rst pairing in history to win all four matches, a performance that helped Europe reclaim the Cup in emphatic fashion. In 2021 at Whistling Straits, while Europe ultimately fell short, Fleetwood delivered solid results, going 0–1–2, including a draw in singles matching Jordan Spieth.

WHAT’S IN TOMMY’S BAG

DRIVER: TaylorMade Qi35 10.5° driver

MINI DRIVER: TaylorMade R7 Quad Mini 13.5°

FAIRWAY WOODS: TaylorMade Qi35 18.0°

5-wood and Qi10 24.0° 9-wood

IRONS: TaylorMade P·7TW 5-PW

MID WEDGE: TaylorMade Hi Toe 4 52° ATS

WEDGES: TaylorMade MG Proto 56° SB, 60° SB

PUTTER: TaylorMade Spider Tour Black BALL: TaylorMade TP5x pix

Then came 2023 in Rome. It was Fleetwood’s most consequential edition yet: he teamed with McIlroy in foursomes, earning them the a ectionate moniker “Fleetwood Mac”—and notched critical points, including the decisive single that reclaimed the Ryder Cup for Europe.

GRASS ROOTS AND EARLY DAYS

Fleetwood’s journey began on the municipal courses around Southport, where his father encouraged him to pick up a club as a boy. Hours spent at Formby Hall and sometimes sneaking on at Royal Birkdale helped shape his elegant ball-striking, but also grounded him in the communal side of golf. He often recalls competing in junior events where “the prize was a chocolate bar and bragging rights,” experiences that instilled both humility and a love of the game’s grassroots. That grounding remains central to his identity, fuelling his passion for junior coaching through the Tommy Fleetwood Academy with he founded in 2019 at Formby Hall speaks to his commitment to growing the game and nurturing the next generation.

LIFE BEYOND THE FAIRWAYS

the moment matters most, Tommy Fleetwood shows up not just as a golfer, but as a leader of character and soul.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Away from the glare of competition, Fleetwood’s grounding in uence has always been his family. He married Clare Craig in 2017, who had been his manager before becoming his wife, and together they are raising his stepson Oscar and their two younger children. The sight of Oscar running to greet him on the 18th green at East Lake became one of the de ning images of his breakthrough Tour Championship win, a reminder of how central family is to his identity. Fleetwood has often spoken about the balance between chasing trophies and being present at home, stressing that golf is what he does, not who he is. In interviews, he frequently returns to his father’s guidance. He is also vocal about the sacri ces Clare and the family make while he travels on Tour, crediting them with keeping him grounded and focused. O the course, Fleetwood is a devoted father, a husband with an easy laugh, and a gure admired not only for his swing but for his humility, generosity, and sense of perspective.

Tommy Fleetwood’s path to the pinnacle at East Lake was not the ashiest, but it was one of deep emotional resonance. It was a win that felt like liberation not just from pressure, but from the idea that perseverance can be enough. Alongside his Ryder Cup legacy and his enduring personal ethos, this breakthrough doesn’t just mark a milestone – it marks the unveiling of a champion who represents the best of the game: excellence, empathy, and enduring elegance.

CLASSIC FLEETWOOD QUOTES

■ CONTROLLED AGGRESSION: FLEETWOOD LETS IT FLY him grounded and gure admired not only for his swing sense of perspective. DOWN THE FAIRWAY

On patience and persistence:

“Golf gives you more failure than success, so the trick is learning to love the process. You’ve got to be willing to get knocked down and keep walking.”

On Ryder Cup pressure:

“There’s nothing like the Ryder Cup. You feel ten times the nerves, but also ten times the joy when you pull it o with your mates.”

On Francesco Molinari and their 2018 ‘Moliwood’ partnership:

“Playing with Fran was one of the highlights of my career. We just fed o each other’s calm –and had a laugh while doing it.”

LOOKING AHEAD: THE NEXT CHAPTERS

With the weight of a breakthrough o his shoulders, Fleetwood now looks poised for even greater chapters. His Tour Championship triumph and FedEx Cup glory have rejuvenated his world ranking and bolstered his con dence heading into future majors.

On his trademark hair:

“I cut it once, and people didn’t recognize me. So now it stays – it’s like a trademark. The hair plays golf too.”

The Ryder Cup looms again –Bethpage Black awaits – and Europe will rely on Fleetwood’s calm under pressure and team- rst spirit. Fans, teammates, and rivals alike know when

On his philosophy of sport:

“At the end of the day, it’s not about the trophies. It’s about the people you meet and how you carry yourself.”

On what drives him:

“I’ve always wanted to see how good I can be. That’s it really – just keep nding out where my limits are.”

■ TOMMY FLEETWOOD LOOKS TO THE SKY AFTER FINALLY WINNING HIS FIRST PGA TOUR TITLE AT EAST LAKE

BEST OF KENT

Golf News looks at England’s oldest county, which is blessed with a rich variety of venues on which to test your golfing skills, from classic seaside links to clifftop courses with far-reaching views, and expansive downland and parkland layouts set among rolling hills.

PRINCE’S

ent is home to over 90 golf courses, offering one of the most diverse golfing experiences in the UK, the Garden of England has something for every golfer with green fees to suit all budgets and superb on-site accommodation, it’s the perfect destination for your next golf break.

Prince’s Golf Club host of the 2030 Walker Cup, is one of the oldest, yet perhaps least well-known Open Championship venues, with the legendary Gene Sarazen lifting the Claret Jug here back in 1932. The club is still used for Final Qualifying every time The Open is held at Royal St George’s, and its three 9-hole loops – Shore, Dunes and Himalayas – which have recently benefited from substantial redevelopment – provide a suitable challenge for the world’s best golfers. An impressive array of 97 revetted bunkers, including the now-famous Sarazen Bunker, rolling greens and seaside breezes will test all your shot- making skills, while the three loops offer three different 18-hole configurations to cater for an extended stay. So, it’s just as well that the club boasts well-appointed apartment accommodation at The Lodge at Prince’s, while the club’s excellent restaurant, the Brasserie on the Bay, serves up a range of tasty dishes sourced from high quality local suppliers. princesgolfclub.co.uk

HEVER CASTLE

Hever Castle is not only one of Kent’s most iconic attractions, it is home to a 7,000yard, par-72 championship parkland course, comprising the Kings and Queens 9-hole courses, as well as the nine-hole Princes Course. With water hazards, numerous bunkers, small greens, and some narrow tree-lined fairways, its places an emphasis on accuracy, although there are plenty of opportunities to open the shoulders. Off the course, Hever boasts a superb Tudor-style clubhouse, part of which dates to the 13th century, which provides the perfect place to relax, while overnight guests can hole up in the Astor Wing of Hever Castle, which offers 21 luxurious bedrooms set within private areas of the castle which was once home to the Boleyn family of Henry VIII fame. hevercastle.co.uk

■ HEVER CASTLE

■ PRINCE’S

CHART HILLS

Sir Nick Faldo’s rst European design was the talk of the town – and the country – when it rst opened in 1993, and over 30 years later the Knight of the Realm’s course continues to attract interest thanks to the recent investments in the club by its new owners, which has returned it to the true championship that it was meant to be, testament to this is that the course is in the Top 100 Golf World Ranking for courses in England. O ering thrills and spills at every turn, with acres of water and a similar area of sand, its golf on steroids that will examine every inch of your game. The fairways twist and turn in all directions, heading towards the huge and frighteningly undulating greens. The bunkering is daring in the extreme, ranging from small deep pot bunkers to the huge snake-like ‘Anaconda’ bunker on the par- ve 5th that wiggles along for more than 200 yards. Water hazards also come in all shapes and sizes and are frequently in play, especially on the par-three 17th where the green is an island. With an impressive clubhouse that towers above the course like the bridge of ship and Tour-level practice facilities – including a stunning new six-hole par-3 course and accommodation at The Barn. – Chart Hills is a must-play on any itinerary in Kent. charthills.co.uk

WEALD OF KENT

The Weald of Kent Golf Course and Hotel is a popular destination for golfers seeking both challenge and relaxation in the heart of the Kent countryside. This beautifully maintained 18hole parkland course is set among rolling landscapes with far-reaching views, o ering a mix of natural beauty and thoughtful design. With its varied elevations, strategically placed lakes, and welljudged hazards, the course is more than capable of testing con dent golfers, while the generous fairways and immaculate greens ensure it remains welcoming and enjoyable for less experienced players too. Green fees are attractively priced, making the course excellent value for visitors, whether you’re planning a casual round or a full day on the fairways. For those looking to extend their stay, the adjoining hotel provides stylish and comfortable accommodation, ideal for bespoke golf breaks that combine great golf, quality dining, and the peace and quiet of the Garden of England.

weald-of-kent.co.uk

■ WEALD OF KENT

BACKING THE FUTURE: HOW NOVELLUS IS DRIVING GOLF’S NEXT GENERATION

Lottie Woad’s rapid rise has been one of golf’s most compelling stories and standing firmly in her corner is Novellus Finance, a name making its presence felt on leaderboards and in locker rooms alike. From backing the stars of tomorrow to driving some of the sport’s biggest events, Novellus is doing far more than funding golf, they’re helping shape its future. Golf News discovers what the company has planned for the game in the years ahead.

hat inspired Novellus Finance to become so actively involved in golf, and particularly in supporting emerging talent?

At Novellus we have always been very passionate about the game and have built some strong relationships within the sport. Our brand values align closely with the positive work many of our partners are doing in the game. Supporting emerging talent is a natural way for us to give back and invest in the future of a sport about which we care deeply.

Is golf sponsorship part of a wider brand strategy, or is it more about personal passion within the company?

Whilst it began as a personal passion for our CEO Billy McManus, it has evolved into a key part of Novellus’ longer term brand strategy. Aligning with people and events that share our values has always been important and as we’ve seen success with the athletes we have backed and the growth of the events, it has become a consistently positive area for continued investment.

How do you decide which tournaments and players to sponsor?

It is still quite a uid process and often depends on the individual event or athlete. For example, we partnered with Annabel Dimmock after seeing the way she engaged with fans at the KPMG Women’s Irish Open. Her father caddied for her that week, and with her winning the event, it felt like a special story we wanted to be part of. We spend a lot of time talking with people within golf whose opinions we value. Being able to pick the brains of leading players, caddies and

key people in the game really helps us to identify some of the most exciting up and coming players and critically, learn about them as people. When it comes to selecting events, the promoters have played a key role. Forefront has done an excellent job delivering top class events in Ireland with both the Woman’s Irish Open and the Legends Tour tournaments. Supporting the Rose Ladies Series was an easy decision for us because we have long been admirers of what Kate and Justin Rose have done for Women’s golf and again, the organisation and professionalism of the tour, made our involvement a very natural t. We think providing pathways into the professional game and also providing playing opportunities on high quality courses with meaningful prize funds is critical to developing the next generation of golfers.

What tangible changes have you seen in the careers of the golfers you sponsor?

We think it’s probably too early in our sponsorship journey to know. We hope that our support goes some way to trying to ease the signi cant nancial burden many golfers face. The prize money on all of the feeder tours as well as the LET Access and lower rankings on the LET tour highlights just how tough making a living from the game has become.

Novellus’ backing helps these athletes invest into more coaching, technology (e.g. GC Quad or Trackman) or hiring a professional caddie. Ultimately, we want to give them the chance to focus on their performance and potential, rather than whether they can a ord to compete at all.

Can you share a story of a player whose journey you’ve been especially proud to support?

At Novellus, we have been lucky to share some great moments with several athletes across tennis and golf, but one story that stands out is still very much ongoing. We have been supporting Euan Walker for several years now. He’s an impressive young man who has come incredibly close to earning his DP World Tour card, with two fantastic wins on the Challenge Tour (now the HotelPlanner tour), but narrowly missing out overall. The way he carries himself, continues to represent Novellus and gives everything to the game is something that we are incredibly proud of. We have a feeling this could be the year he nally breaks through and we’re excited to see what he can achieve at the higher levels of the game. His journey is a powerful reminder of how tough the game is and how much it means to those who dedicate themselves to it.

How do you measure the success of your golf sponsorships beyond simple brand exposure? We measure success by aligning with individuals who give their all, which not only brings satisfaction to us as a company but also serves as a powerful reminder to our employees. The perseverance and commitment that these athletes show, despite such frequent setbacks (which of course are common practice in

Photos: Getty Images

professional sport), sets a wonderful example for everyone at Novellus.

Many of your partnerships are with up-andcoming players, what qualities do you look for in an athlete?

We are spending more time with players and look for key qualities such as resilience, desire and competitiveness. Golf is an incredibly tough game, and you have to love what you do. The most successful athletes not only relish competing but also embrace the process and progression. We also value curiosity and willingness to learn. Asking the right questions and seeking the right advice is crucial and the smartest players gure that out early. Finally, self-belief is essential. It sounds a bit cliched but backing yourself, when it matters most, is what separates the very best!

What do you think are the biggest challenges for young golfers trying to break into the professional ranks today?

The standard today is extremely high. The costs associated with playing professional golf are signi cant. These costs exist regardless of the tour you are playing for and prize funds you can compete for. Coach (often coaches for di erent components of the game), Caddie, Travel, Entry fees, Physio, Physical trainer and psychology.

There’s also an overload of information in the world now with an expectation for instant results, but true success takes time. Lottie Woad is a great example of this - what looks like an “overnight success” is really the result of 15 years of hard work by her and her support team.

A key challenge is learning to trust the process, to take the advice given and then committing to it for long enough, rather than constantly making changes. We are strong advocates of trusting the process.

The KPMG Women’s Irish Open, Rose Ladies Series, and Women’s Irish Challenge are all signi cant events, how does Novellus see its role in helping these grow?

Novellus plays a small supporting role. These events are all driven by passionate, dedicated people and we aim to raise awareness and encourage other businesses to follow our lead by highlighting the positive impact of partnering with high quality tournaments. We also encourage our Novellus sponsored athletes to compete in the events and, as they achieve greater success, we hope this will help elevate the pro le of these fantastic tournaments and tours.

We have seen rst hand, how inspiring for the next generation, spending a short amount of time with the players can be. We try to ensure we are on hand with hats, autograph opportunities with our athletes and some words of encouragement. We are lucky that the people we support buy into that and have had that from the generations that went before, no more so than in Irish golf where there is a great support network from current and former players advising the next generation as they navigate the professional game.

Are there plans to get involved at a junior or grassroots level, perhaps through coaching programs or youth events?

Absolutely. Lottie’s success o ers a powerful foundation to inspire and attract more young golfers into the game. Novellus is committed to creating a legacy by supporting grassroot e orts and actively engaging with clubs, coaches, and governing bodies to explore the best ways to make the most of this truly unique window of opportunity.

Can you reveal any upcoming golf partnerships or initiatives we should watch for?

We are excited about the next phase of growth at the Novellus academy. We also have several other projects in development, which we look forward to updating you on soon!

Does anyone in the Novellus leadership team play golf themselves? If so, any memorable rounds or personal highlights?

Our CEO, Billy McManus, plays regularly, as do many of our senior team. A memorable highlight is when Billy made two “hole in ones”, within two days, although he is quick to remind us that he hasn’t had any before or since!

If you could sponsor any golfer in history, past or present, who would it be and why?

It’s an obvious choice, but it must be Tiger Woods. While many great players have come before and after him, it’s unlikely we’ll ever see anyone who electri es the sport or has the same level of impact on the game quite in the way Tiger has.

■ NOVELLUS’ BILLY MCMANUS WITH JAMES KINGSTON AT OFX IRISH LEGENDS

■ EUAN WALKER PROUDLY

REPRESENTING NOVELLUS ON TOUR

■ LOTTIE WOAD CELEBRATES WINNING THE SCOTTISH OPEN ON HER PROFESSIONAL DEBUT

OLD TOM’S TWIN LEGACIES

From the windswept dunes of Leven Links to the Highland valleys of Kingussie , two very different Scottish courses showcase the timeless vision of golf’s first great architect.

Scotland is golf’s cradle, and no figure looms larger in its story than Old Tom Morris. Born in St Andrews in 1821, Morris was not only a four-time Open champion but also the game’s first great architect, a man who believed courses should emerge from the land rather than be imposed upon it. His influence stretches across the country, from the rolling dunes of the Fife coast to the rugged glens of the Cairngorms. Few places illustrate that breadth better than Leven Links and Kingussie Golf Club,two very different courses, united by the hand of Old Tom.

On the shores of Fife, Leven Links embodies everything the word “links” has come to mean. Golf was played here as early as the 1820s, but by the latter half of the 19th century it was Old Tom Morris who helped shape it into a proper course. What emerged was quietly revolutionary: Leven became the first course in the world to boast 18 separate tees and 18 separate greens, a concept so obvious to us now but at the time a bold step away from shared putting surfaces. In that single innovation, the modern rhythm of golf – the steady march from first tee to eighteenth green, was born.

Morris’s genius lay in his light touch. Rather than carving the land, he allowed the natural contours of the dunes to dictate play. The fairways here still roll as if sculpted by wind and tide; the greens sprawl

and tilt in ways that seem organic, not engineered. And then there is the unforgettable finishing hole, played across the Scoonie Burn, which still sends a shiver down the spine of anyone standing on the tee with a card to protect.

If Leven is golf stripped to its coastal essence, Kingussie Golf Club shows how Morris carried the same principles inland. By the 1890s, the game had spread beyond the coast, and in 1895, at the age of 74, Old Tom journeyed north to the Highlands. There, amid the dramatic setting of the Cairngorms, he laid out a simple nine-hole course that made the most of its valley setting. The River Gynack, the natural slopes, and the sweeping views were all pressed into service, creating a course that felt both challenging and deeply connected to the land. Kingussie would later expand to 18 holes under the hand of another legend, Harry Vardon, but Morris’s original blueprint still resonates. The fairways remain generous yet deceptive, rewarding thoughtful placement over raw power. The greens, often perched on natural rises or edged by streams, echo his belief that hazards should be drawn from the landscape itself. It is golf that feels rooted in its environment, Highland golf, but undeniably Morris golf.

Taken together, Leven and Kingussie reveal the full scope of Old Tom’s vision. In Fife, he helped codify the modern links, setting a standard that would ripple across the world. In Kingussie, he

proved that those same design principles could thrive far from the sea, translating the poetry of the links into the rugged music of the Highlands. One course influenced the architecture of the game itself; the other demonstrated its adaptability, its ability to feel at home in any corner of Scotland.

For today’s golfer, the contrast is striking. At Leven Links, the wind off the Forth tangles with your swing, the sandhills rise around you, and every shot feels like a conversation with centuries of tradition. At Kingussie, the air is thinner, the hills more dramatic, and the game feels somehow both grander and more intimate. Yet in both places, the presence of Old Tom Morris is unmistakable. He is there in the natural lines of a fairway, in the subtle humps of a green, in the way a hazard appears not designed but discovered.

Old Tom often said that the land should speak for itself. At Leven and Kingussie, it still does. Two courses, two landscapes, coast and mountain, links and Highland, but one vision, from a man who gave golf its shape.

OLD TOM’S TOP TRACKS

Carnoustie (Championship), Crail, Cruden Bay, Dunbar, Kirby Muxloe, Ladybank, Lahinch, Leven Links, Lundin, Montrose, Muirfield, Nairn, Panmure, Prestwick, Royal Dornoch, Lindrick, Northampton, West Herts, Rosapenna, Royal North Devon, Royal Cromer, Royal County Down, Royal Portrush.

RYDER CUP 2025

PLAYING AWAY CAN TEAM EUROPE DEFEND THEIR TITLE

MEET THE TEAMS ALL 24 PLAYERS IN PROFILE

SKIPPER LUKE INTERVIEW WITH EUROPE’S WINNING CAPTAIN LUKE DONALD

RYDER RELIVED REMEMBERING ICONIC MOMENTS IN RYDER CUP HISTORY

BERNARD REMEMBERS

CAPTAIN GALLACHER REFLECTS ON HIS NEW YORK VICTORY IN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

FOCUS ON BETHPAGE TAKING A LOOK AT NEW YORK’S MOST FAMOUS GOLF STATE PARK

DISCOVER NEW YORK WHERE TO PLAY AND VISIT WHEN YOU COME TO VISIT NEW YORK STATE

MEET TEAM EUROPE

(Captain: Luke Donald)

Rory McIlroy

Previous RC record: 16-13-4 | Appearances: 7. Europe’s engine. Three 2025 wins including The Players and the Masters. Peerless o -the-tee and erce competitor who embraces away crowds. Expect leadership minutes in both team formats and a marquee Sunday slot.

Robert MacIntyre

Previous RC record: 2-0-1 | Appearances: 1. Undefeated rookie in Rome returns sharper, with major runner-ups this year. Lefty shot-making and fearless attitude travel well; pro les as a sticky match-play opponent who holes momentum putts.

Tommy Fleetwood

Previous RC record: 7-3-2 | Appearances: 3. Late-season Tour Championship winner and historically brilliant in pairs. Shapes shots both ways, elite fairway woods and clutch under pressure. Expect Donald to lean hard on him in foursomes.

Justin Rose

Previous RC record: 14-9-3 | Appearances: 6. Stateside savvy, veteran calm and proven U.S. away form. Still a premium iron player; thrives as a mentor-partner who steadies rookies and closes late with nervy putts.

Rasmus Højgaard (rookie)

Previous RC record: N/A. Only new face from 2023’s squad. DP World Tour strokes-gained leader; high-ceiling ballstriker with modern speed. Pair with a seasoned putter to unlock his tee-to-green advantage at Bethpage.

Tyrrell Hatton

Previous RC record: 5-4-2 | Appearances: 3. Fiery competitor who thrives on edge. LIV form solid; historically reliable in foursomes. If driver stays disciplined, his iron control and putting can ip U.S. crowds quiet.

Shane Lowry

Previous RC record: 2-3-1 | Appearances: 2. Major champion with short-game wizardry and leadership gravitas. Loves a scrap, especially on thick-rough setups. Expect savvy course management and clutch scrambling to steal halves.

Sepp Straka

Previous RC record: 1-2-0 | Appearances: 1. Two wins in 2025 and top-10 true strokes gained. Straight, heavy ball ight – ideal in wind or Bethpage’s long irons. Underrated killer when the putter warms.

Ludvig Åberg

Previous RC record: 2-2-0 | Appearances: 1. Modern prototype: speed, towering irons, big-stage calm. Genesis winner this year; ceiling is star-turn points haul if wedges/ putter cooperate. Pair with an experienced putter for foursomes.

Viktor Hovland

Previous RC record: 3-4-3 | Appearances: 2. Ball-striking savant with improved short game. Comfortable in hostile environments; thrives in four-ball when aggression is rewarded. If putter pops, he’s a multi-point anchor.

Matt Fitzpatrick

Previous RC record: 1-7-0 | Appearances: 3. Numbers belie current form: elite driving/approach season and hardened match-play experience. Expect smarter pairings and roles to unlock his birdie runs. Sneaky good at holing testers.

Jon Rahm

Previous RC record: 6-3-3 | Appearances: 3. Europe’s emotional fulcrum. LIV schedule, same menace: towering tee-to-green, fearless putts, and a taste for U.S. soil jousts. Prime candidate to take on Sche er in a blockbuster singles.

GOLF’S GREATEST SHOWDOWN

With the Ryder Cup returning to U.S. soil, Golf News dives into the storied past of a trophy that has inspired drama for nearly a century.

ew events in world sport capture the imagination quite like the Ryder Cup. Every two years, the best golfers from either side of the Atlantic face o in a contest where national pride, teamwork, and raw emotion overshadow the individual achievements that so often de ne the game. What began nearly a century ago as a friendly exhibition has grown into one of golf’s most prestigious and ercely contested tournaments.

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

The Ryder Cup owes its existence to Samuel Ryder, a wealthy English businessman and passionate golf enthusiast who made his fortune selling seeds by mail order. In the early 1920s, a series of informal matches were held between American and British professionals. These encounters were more about camaraderie than competition, but Ryder saw potential for something bigger.

In 1927, with Ryder’s backing, the rst o cial match was staged at Worcester Country Club in Massachusetts. The trophy he commissioned, a gold chalice bearing his likeness on top, was presented to the victorious Americans, who won convincingly. What Ryder could not have foreseen was how his idea would blossom into a global sporting phenomenon.

EARLY DOMINANCE BY THE U.S.

For the rst few decades, the contest was heavily one-sided. American golf was thriving, with stars such as Walter Hagen, Ben Hogan, and Sam Snead leading dominant teams. Great Britain, later joined by Ireland, simply couldn’t match the depth and strength of the American line-ups. From 1935 to 1959, the U.S. won seven consecutive Cups, often by overwhelming margins.

By the 1960s, questions arose about whether the competition could survive if it remained so unbalanced. The matches lacked drama,

■ SEVE CELEBRATES AFTER WINNING AT MUIRFIELD VILLAGE IN 1987

and interest began to wane. A radical change was needed to restore competitiveness.

THE BIRTH OF TEAM EUROPE

That change came in 1979, when the competition was expanded to include continental Europe. The idea, rst suggested by players such as Jack Nicklaus and supported by administrators, was bold but necessary. It allowed stars like Spain’s ery Seve Ballesteros and compatriot José María Olazábal to bring their talent and passion to the stage.

The inclusion of Europe transformed the Ryder Cup overnight. Suddenly, the Americans faced opponents who were not only skilled but unafraid to challenge them head-on. Ballesteros became the emotional heartbeat of European golf, inspiring teammates and fans with his air and ghting spirit.

LEGENDARY CONTESTS

The Ryder Cup’s modern era is de ned by unforgettable battles. At The Belfry in 1985, Europe nally broke a 28-year drought with a famous victory, sparking celebrations across the continent.

■ SAM TORRANCE HOISTS CAPTAIN TONY JACKLIN ALOFT AT THE BELFRY IN 1985, CELEBRATING EUROPE’S FIRST RYDER CUP VICTORY IN 28 YEARS

MEET TEAM USA

(Captain: Keegan Bradley)

Scottie Sche er

Previous RC record: 2-2-3 | Appearances: 2. Relentlessly consistent world No.1 with ve 2025 wins, elite tee-togreen and majors pedigree. A tone-setter in foursomes; expect him to anchor partnerships where his precision irons let partners play free. Bethpage’s brawn suits his driving and all-round control.

Two years later, under captain Tony Jacklin, they stunned the U.S. on home soil at Muir eld Village, con rming that Europe was no longer a supporting act but a true rival.

Perhaps the most dramatic Ryder Cup of all came in 1991 at Kiawah Island, nicknamed the “War on the Shore.” With patriotic fervour and erce competitiveness on both sides, the U.S. edged Europe in a tense contest that epitomized the Ryder Cup’s intensity. The sportsmanship was questioned at times, but the drama cemented the event’s place in the public consciousness.

GREATEST SHOWDOWN

In 1999, the competition produced one of its most emotional nishes. Trailing by four points heading into the nal day at Brookline, the Americans staged a remarkable comeback in the singles, capped by Justin Leonard’s long putt on the 17th green. The celebrations spilled onto the green before José María Olazábal had putted, sparking controversy, but the moment has gone down as one of the most iconic in Cup history.

Europe, for their part, have had their own de ning triumphs. The 2012 “Miracle at Medinah” saw Europe overturn a 10–6 de cit on the nal day, inspired by the memory of the late Seve Ballesteros. Captain José María Olazábal’s passionate leadership and Ian Poulter helped deliver one of the greatest comebacks in sport, with Martin Kaymer holing the putt that secured victory.

MORE THAN GOLF

What sets the Ryder Cup apart is its unique atmosphere. Unlike the hushed tones of regular tournaments, Ryder Cup crowds roar, chant, and sing, creating scenes more akin to football stadiums than golf courses. Players, accustomed to competing for themselves, embrace the rare chance to ght for a team, a captain, and a continent or country.

The pressure is immense. Even major champions speak of Ryder Cup nerves being unlike anything they feel elsewhere. Every shot carries weight, every mistake lingers longer. For three days, golf transforms from a solitary pursuit into the ultimate team sport.

LOOKING AHEAD TO BETHPAGE BLACK

■ SAM RYDER (CENTRE) WITH US TEAM CAPTAIN WALTER HAGEN (LEFT) AND BRITISH TEAM CAPTAIN GEORGE DUNCAN (RIGHT) IN 1929

J.J. Spaun (rookie)

The stage is now set for the 2025 edition at Bethpage Black, one of America’s most demanding and iconic courses. Known for its brutal di culty and passionate New York crowds, the venue promises an atmosphere that will test the mettle of even the most seasoned professionals.

The Americans will look to reclaim momentum after Europe’s stirring victory in Rome in 2023. With stars such as Rory McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood and Jon Rahm leading the European charge, and U.S. repower from the likes of Scottie Sche er and Bryson DeChambeau the contest is poised to be another classic.

Bethpage’s history of rowdy, vocal galleries could provide the Americans with a home advantage, but Europe’s resilience and unity have often thrived in hostile environments. If past Ryder Cups have taught us anything, it is to expect the unexpected: miraculous shots, emotional meltdowns, and moments that will be replayed for decades to come.

A LEGACY OF PASSION

From its humble origins in the 1920s to today’s global showcase, the Ryder Cup has evolved into one of sport’s crown jewels. It has given fans not just golf of the highest calibre, but drama, rivalry, and stories that transcend the game.

As the countdown to 2025 continues, the Ryder Cup remains more than a competition, it is a celebration of everything that makes sport compelling: passion, pride, and the pursuit of glory. Samuel Ryder could never have imagined that his simple idea would endure for nearly a century, uniting continents, and captivating millions. Yet his trophy has become the symbol of golf at its most thrilling.

And when the rst ball is struck at Bethpage Black, another unforgettable chapter in this extraordinary saga will begin.

Previous RC record: N/A. Breakout U.S. Open champion with top-10 true strokes gained. Understated demeanor, sharp approach play and improving short game make him a sneaky foursomes asset. Rookie nerves aside, form and iron control travel – especially on demanding setups like Bethpage.

Xander Schau ele

Previous RC record: 4-4-0 | Appearances: 2. Big-moment poise, elite ball-striking and versatile pairings history. Even in a “down” year, he remains a match-play problem with tidy irons and clutch putting under pressure. Expect Cantlay/ Xander to reprise a reliable point-scoring partnership.

Russell Henley (rookie)

Previous RC record: N/A . Arnold Palmer Invitational winner with balanced stats across the bag and razor-sharp wedges. Not the longest, but crafty, accurate and gritty – an ideal foursomes complement to a bomber. Presidents Cup chemistry with Sche er hints at ready-made pairings.

Harris English

Previous RC record: 1-2-0 | Appearances: 1

Steady veteran presence and elite putter who thrives in tense moments. Torrey Pines win showed his 2025 form. Expect him to calm rookies in four-balls and tidy up holes with reliable short game.

Bryson DeChambeau

Previous RC record: 2-3-1 | Appearances: 2. Power spectacle tailor-made for Bethpage’s brutality. Brings energy, crowd engagement and fearless lines o the tee. If wedges behave, his four-ball ceiling is massive; pair with a steady iron player in foursomes.

Justin Thomas

Previous RC record: 7-4-2 | Appearances: 3. USA’s heartbeat. Emotional leader with proven Ryder Cup mettle and a knack for momentum-swinging putts. Even when season form wobbles, his match-play CV and intangibles are undeniable. Expect heavy minutes in team sessions.

Collin Morikawa

Previous RC record: 4-3-1 | Appearances: 2. Iron artist whose fairway-to- ag precision is a foursomes cheat code. Form ebbs, but approach play remains elite. Pair with a con dent putter to maximize his green-in-regulation machine pro le at Bethpage.

Ben Gri n (rookie)

Previous RC record: N/A . Two-time 2025 winner with balanced strokes-gained pro le and proof in team formats (Zurich win). Composed under pressure; projects as a exible partner who keeps the ball in play and makes midrange putts.

■ IAN POULTER, ‘THE POSTMAN,’ DELIVERING YET AGAIN FOR TEAM EUROPE WITH HIS TRADEMARK RYDER CUP PASSION AND CLUTCH PERFORMANCES

■ BERNHARD LANGER MISSES THE DECISIVE PUTT ON THE 18TH GREEN AT KIAWAH ISLAND, SEALING VICTORY FOR THE U.S. IN THE 1991 RYDER CUP, THE ‘WAR ON THE SHORE

Cameron Young (rookie)

Previous RC record: N/A. NY-born bomber who just won Wyndham and has Bethpage history. Length plus improved putting scream four-ball weapon; local vibes could supercharge him. Needs a tidy wedge/short-game partner in alternate shot.

Patrick Cantlay

Previous RC record: 5-2-1 | Appearances: 2. Clinical, un appable and a foursomes metronome. Iron play quietly excellent again; thrives in the Xander partnership but slots anywhere. Expect him to absorb away-team re with stoic clutch.

Sam Burns

Previous RC record: 1-2-0 | Appearances: 1. Tour’s No.1 putter in 2025, with newfound major contention. Ideal fourball closer who converts partners’ pressure into birdies. If driver behaves, he can ip sessions with streaky runs.

DONALD READY TO FACE THE ROAR AT BETHPAGE I

The European captain admits the New York crowd will be loud, partisan, and relentless, but says his players are ready to meet that challenge with fight, resilience, and a belief that respect can be earned through hard work and grit on golf’s most pressurised stage.

Photography: Getty Images

t’s been an exciting day and we have our complete team. Give us a sense of how you feel now that you have your 12 players set for Bethpage Black. Obviously delighted with how it’s panned out. Quite unusual, I suppose, to have such continuity from two years ago but I think it’s hard to argue with these 12 guys. I’m extremely excited to have them and move forward now as a team.

These last few weeks are always never the most fun or a bit stressful for a captain but excited where we are, and the preparations have already happened and will continue to happen for Bethpage.

There seems to be a lot of positive messaging from yourselves and your players about the crowd and almost embracing it and when you’re talking about the New York crowd respect hard work, effort and grit, can you win the crowd over as well as the Ryder Cup I think he can only be ourselves and be authentic to ourselves. I think if you look at New Yorkers, they appreciate that. They appreciate you going out there, fighting hard for your team. They will be very passionate and supportive of the U.S. We are quite aware of that, and we’ll be ready for the noise.

But again, when I took this role on two years ago again, I knew I had to come at it from a different angle. This wasn’t going to be the same challenge that it was in Rome. Different challenges require different strategies, and certainly this has been in the back of my mind for the whole captaincy since being appointed for a second time.

Message seems to be: Nothing to fear out there I mean, for me, in my individual career, if you’re prepared and you’re ready, we understand what’s going to happen to us. It’s our reaction to that that’s important. So we all have fears. We all have anxieties, and we all find Ryder Cups pressurised. But these are top athletes that understand how to walk towards that fear.

But yeah, again, you want to embrace what a Ryder Cup represents and then part of that is embracing the crowd and embracing that atmosphere, and I think certainly these guys will be ready for that.

Perhaps the most prominent New Yorker in attendance, on Friday, at least, will be President Trump. Have you factored in the great Donald into your planning preparations, team meetings, etc., and what impact he might have on the day and how that could impact an already amped crowd? President Trump obviously loves his golf and for him to be there means -- it just shows how big the Ryder Cup is; that the President of the United States would want to come and grace us with his presence.

Again, we’re all expecting the crowds and the energy and the environment to be very loud, be very spirited. You know, I think he’ll add to that. But again, there’s something that we’ve been expecting. We know he was going to come for a few weeks, we heard, and we’ll be ready for it.

I thought you were the great Donald. Curious, the makeup of your team but the final picks that you had were influenced by the fact that it’s going to be in New York and not a home came where it might be easier for a rookie to move into part of what the Ryder Cup is. I think it was reasonably significant. You’ve got to look at history, the past people who have performed well in America. You must understand who you are playing against, what course you’re playing, and what the environment is going to be like.

I think understanding all of that had a big factor in choosing the guys that I did. They are

very adapted to play in week-in, week-out with a lot of these guys. They understand that they can go head-to-head, and they are familiar with these guys. They know their games, and I think they feel like they can compete with these guys. So, yes, that was significant in my thinking of why they deserved to be on that team.

Of all the phone calls you had to make, was Matt Wallace’s the most painful? Obviously, we saw him in tears at Swizerland. They are all very difficult for different reasons. I called him 10 or 15 minutes after that emotional interview he did in Crans, and I felt very emotional for him. It just shows to me what the Ryder Cup means to these guys and how they are trying to desperately make the team and be a part of it.

You know, Matt has made no secret of that over the years, and he’s come very close several times. I think that call was tough but to be honest they are all tough. I think these guys all really wanted to be on that team.

When you listen to Jon Rahm talk about that you have been providing the players with different tools to try to deal with what’s going to be happening at Bethpage, and you’ve talked about the fact that you’re going to have to do things differently than you’re going to do them in Rome, can you give us some insight into what any of that means? What are you doing differently? What tools are you providing the players?

I’m looking at it as an overall strategy for what’s required at Bethpage, I think for me looking at Rome and how well it went is one thing but tackling an away Ryder Cup is different. For me, I wanted to up the communication, obviously not just for the 12 that make it, I didn’t know what that were, but the communication amongst a group of players that I thought was going to be on that Ryder Cup Team or have chances to be on the Ryder Cup Team, and just talking a lot about the environment that we’re going to face.

You know, again, I think the more you can talk about it, the more you can get it in their heads, the more they can start to prepare and be ready for that environment. Upped communication, especially about the environment. But then, also, these are the greatest kind of days of our lives. We unbelievably enjoy the weeks of Ryder Cups. They are so different. And so for me, as fun and as good as Rome was, I want to make this an even better experience for them. So think of new ways for them to really enjoy the week.

Can you outline a little bit of your wife Diane’s contribution? I’m led to believe that she was behind some of the jokes that were put on the players’ pillows in Rome. A, is that

THESE ARE TOP ATHLETES THAT UNDERSTAND HOW TO WALK TOWARDS THE FEAR

true, and B, what other things does she do, and will she be doing in Bethpage?

We always look at the Ryder Cup as one big family. We are not just 12 players, vice captains. We look at the caddies. We look at the backroom team. We look at the families of the players. We want to create an experience that will be very memorable for all of them, and Diane’s role is obviously very important in terms of that. She is really, good at trying to make a week fun and show that we care and show that we spend time on thinking about them, the personal touches. You know, but her role this time is slightly different being an away Ryder Cup, lady captain, she obviously had a big role in creating the event, the gala event that we had in Rome together. She implemented the first shutting down of the Spanish Steps in 40 years. What she did was incredible, the lengths she went to. That is obviously a little bit more now on Jillian, Keegan’s wife, to organise the gala that the joint players get together.

But I think the role that Diane has is just as important in terms of making sure everyone has the best week ever.

So much comment that Keegan has helped or emboldened the U.S. by not playing himself. Do you agree with that from your point of

■ LOCAL JUNIOR GOLFERS GOT THE CHANCE TO HEAR FROM LUKE DONALD DURING HIS RECENT VISIT TO BETHPAGE BLACK

view, or were you hoping he did pick himself to play as the captain?

Obviously, there’s been a lot of intrigue about whether Keegan would play or not. There’s sort of a big story line, that was obviously a big story line at his press conference with his picks.

You know, again, we understand Keegan in whatever role as a playing captain or captain, is going to bring a lot of energy and spirit to the Ryder Cup. He loves it and is very passionate about it, and now whatever role he plays, captain, he’ll be very good at it.

You appointed Paul McGinley as a strategic advisor. What has he brought to your captaincy so far? Can you give us any kind of inkling of what have been the tenets of what he’s been telling you, without giving too much away of your strategy?

I had lots of regular communication with him but lots of regular communication with lots of other people, too. I think as a captain, you always want to immerse yourself in as much information and pick out bits that you think are helpful.

I think Paul has a very good strategic mind. He thinks things through. Obviously proved himself as a very, very worthy captain in 2014. Yeah, my first great partner in 2004, playing in the fourballs, he was great to play with.

I think I’m always getting messages from Paul. Just have you thought about this, have you thought about that, you know this might be something to consider. All kinds of things like that, which again, I appreciate so much. People care about the Ryder Cups, and they care about our chances this year and giving ourselves opportunities, and whether it’s Paul or other people, those learnings that I get from them are invaluable.

You’ve spoken about the importance of continuity with 11 out of the 12 same players but do you lose unpredictability if you need to spring a surprise somewhere if you need to?

Just because we have a very similar team doesn’t mean we are going to roll out the same pairings or the same lineup in foursomes and four-balls. I think over a two-year period, these players do change. Their profiles change, and we’ll adapt to that.

This isn’t certainly a question of rinse and repeat from Rome. Again, I’ve mentioned this many times, the strategies and the thought processes and I’m trying to come at in this one is quite different to what we did in Rome. So again, it’s nice to have a continuity within the team, the memories, the experiences that we got to celebrate together, it doesn’t necessarily mean we are going to have the same partnerships.

BACK TO BLACK

The 45th Ryder Cup rolls into New York State from September 26-28 for what promises to be one of the most highly anticipated renewals of golf’s biggest inter-continental team match play contest. Those with tickets for this mouth-watering clash are in for a rip-roaring spectacle, with Bethpage State Park’s Black Course set to provide the stunning stage on which the drama-filled matches will be played out in front of a raucous New York crowd baying for a home win.

Photography: @NYSDED

With the 45th Ryder Cup matches now just weeks away, and US captain Keegan Bradley and European skipper Luke Donald on the cusp of announcing their trusted teams, excitement around the return of golf’s greatest team event has been building ever since Europe wrestled the cup back o the Americans two years ago in Rome.

While it’s fair to say that every renewal of this titanic clash of golfing continents has been feverishly anticipated ever since it became a more competitive event back in the mid-80s, this year’s contest is in danger of taking the pitch way beyond fever thanks to its iconic location.

For nearly a century, Ryder Cups have been staged at private clubs and luxury resorts –places that most golfers will only ever admire from the other side of the ropes. Not this time. Bethpage Black is a public course, and not just any public course, but one of the most legendary in the United States.

The idea that the same course that has and will test the world’s best can be played by mere mortals for a fraction of the cost of most top-tier venues is part of its magic. You can follow in the footsteps of the likes of Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau – if you’re brave enough – for

under £100.

Bethpage State Park’s legendary Black Course is, of course, no stranger to hosting top class tournament action, having hosted two US Open Championships (2002 and 2009), the PGA Championship (2019), and two editions of the PGA TOUR’s Barclays Championship in its storied 90-year history. But this will be the Long Island venue’s debut for when it comes to staging top-flight team golf. And it doesn’t get bigger in team events than the Ryder Cup. Throw in New York’s famously vocal crowds, the Ryder Cup atmosphere, and Bethpage Black’s made-for-matchplay design and you pretty much have all the ingredients required for a supercharged edition of golf’s greatest show.

Bethpage Black is one of the most feared and revered courses – public or private – in the US, ranking 38th in Golf Digest’s Top 100 Courses, and the seventh best public course in the country. Famed for the metal sign that greets golfers on arrival at the clubhouse which warns of the challenge that lies ahead –‘Recommended Only For High Skilled Golfers’ – the Black has been destroying scorecards ever since it first opened for play back in the mid 1930s. Designed by legendary American architect AW Tillinghurst, it represents championship golf on steroids, with the

THIS YEAR’S CONTEST IS IN DANGER OF TAKING THE PITCH WAY BEYOND FEVER THANKS TO ITS ICONIC LOCATION

7,486-yard, par-71 layout placing a severe examination on every aspect of a player’s game from the first of its expertly manicured tees to the last of its heavily contoured greens.

As draw-dropping as it is physically demanding, amateurs and pros alike are in for a world of pain if they stray off the short stuff here, with fairways and greens flanked by vast, deep bunkers and long, gnarly rough. The routing rises and falls with the natural topography, offering long and short holes, uphill and downhill challenges, all integrated beautifully into the landscape.

Memorable holes are too many to mention,

but the par-4 second, a 390-yard dogleg right that plays uphill with a narrow fairway guarded by rough and fairway bunkers, is an early highlight. The par-three third is one of Tillinghast’s great ‘short’ holes. Long – 230 yards off the back tees – and made longer by typically playing into the wind, this hole features a deep green surrounded by dramatic bunkers.

The next, the par-five 4th, is arguably the Black’s signature hole, with the 517-yard uphill hole providing a great eagle opportunity for big hitters, although huge fairway bunkers require accurate driving.

The 10th, a 505-yard par four, sets the tone for the inward nine. A sloping fairway creates uneven lies, and the angle into the green is critical. The putting surface is slick and deceptive, often pushing balls away from hole locations.

The Black Course is very hilly in places and this is seen to most effect at the 457-yard, par-4 15th, where the green is perched up on a ledge whose front is protected by several bunkers. The round concludes with the iconic and daunting par-3 17th, a 207-yard one-shotter whose green is perched dramatically on a hillside surrounded by bunkers. Wind, distance, and pressure – especially in match play – make this one of the most intimidating tee shots on the course. It’s a Ryder Cup theatre in waiting. For matches that go the distance – and not many did in 2023 – the 18th provides a suitably dramatic finale with the relatively short uphill par-4 framed by bunkers either side of the fairway that rises steadily to a heavily guarded green framed by trees and not the clubhouse behind.

If you fancy a slice of Bethpage action for yourself, you’ll need to be quick with your fingers to bag a tee time ($130 on weekdays and $150 at weekends) when slots are released on the Bethpage State Park’s website on a 5-day advance notice for those who are resident outside of New York. Grab whatever tee time you can and be prepared to change your flight home if you get on the list.

FOUR MORE STARS OF THE BETHPAGE SHOW

It’s safe to say that beyond the seven courses that are overseen by the St Andrews Links Trust at the Home of Golf in Scotland, Bethpage Park is unlike any other municipal

golfing space in the world.

Beyond the Black Course, there are four further golf courses – Red, Yellow, Blue and Green – contained within nearly 1,500 acres of wooded land, while the park has much to offers visitors beyond the fairways, with miles of hiking trails, cycling routes, lakes and picnic spots.

The Red Course is the second toughest of the five and has quite rightly earned plenty of accolades of its own. Another Tillinghurst design, it precedes the Black by a couple of years and is a more strategic and more fun course to play than its neighbour, with the 6.537-yard layout much more scoreable, with holes that will more likely see you finish the round with a smile on your face than a gut-punch to the stomach that is the Black. Green fees are $43 on weekdays and $48 at weekends.

The Blue and Yellow courses play side by side on the western end of the park and traverse a series of deep valleys and rolling hills. The Blue’s front nine plays 3,450 yards from the tips and is considered one of the most difficult nines on Long Island. Nine of the 18 holes feature elevated greens of which seven require a carry over a valley.

Though certainly not an easy course, the 6,310-yard Yellow is the shortest and most forgiving layout of the Bethpage quintet, but the par-71 layout is great fun to play.

The Green is Bethpage’s oldest course and is based around a course that was first built in 1923 when it belonged to Lenox Hills Country Club. Bought by the state in 1932 and redesigned by Tillinghurst a few years later. The 6,378-yard layout is well-routed, with fewer fairway bunkers, gentle terrain, and light rough enabling less skilled golfers to get around in good time and with hopefully a decent score. The Blue, Yellow and Green all charge the same fees - $38 on weekdays and $43 on weekends – meaning that you could play all five courses at Bethpage Park – 90 holes of golf – for less than £250 – which is a steal whichever way you chose to cut it.

For more details about Bethpage State Park’s golf courses, visit www.bethpagegolfcourse.com or www.iloveny.com/golf

After the roar of the Ryder Cup crowd at Bethpage has died down, it’s time to book your US adventure by exploring what New York State has to offer. While the charms of the Big Apple are obvious, the region has so much else to offer a visitor, from the windswept shores of the Hamptons to the rolling vineyards of the Catskills, the Empire State offers a world of beauty, history, and flavour just beyond the city limits.

NEW YORK STATE OF MIND

taste, with horse farms, farm-to-table restaurants, and the famed Hampton Classic horse show.

And then there’s Montauk – known locally as ‘The End’ – where a rugged, adventurous spirit rules. Surf the Atlantic, fish for striped bass, or take in the sweeping ocean views from Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum, a New York landmark since 1796.

Wherever you land, the Hamptons deliver more than just a beach escape. Think hiking trails with postcard-perfect views, whale and seal watching cruises, sunset sails, and that salty breeze that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

ew York might be most famous for the dazzling lights of Times Square and the towering skyline of Manhattan, but there’s an entire state beyond the city that brims with culture, natural beauty and charm.

The joy of travelling beyond New York City is the sheer variety on offer. In a single week, you could lounge on the beaches of the Hamptons, cycle through Shelter Island’s nature preserves, sip your way across the North Fork, and then head north for mountain air and vineyard views.

NORTH SHORE

Long Island’s North Shore is where history, elegance, and literary legend intertwine. Dubbed the ‘Gold Coast’, this stretch of rocky shoreline was the inspiration for The Great Gatsby, its grand estates whispering of Jazz Age glamour.

Beach State Park at its heart. The legendary Jones Beach Theater hosts summer concerts under the stars, while bustling boardwalks serve up ice cream, ocean views, and that quintessential coastal buzz. Water lovers can dive into surfing, paddleboarding, fishing, or seal and whale watching tours. For a calmer escape, Heckscher State Park offers 1,600 acres of trails, picnic spots, and sweeping views of the Great South Bay with Fire Island shimmering on the horizon.

ISLAND ESCAPES

Tucked between Long Island’s forks lies Shelter Island, a tranquil retreat accessible only by ferry. Once ashore, you’ll find a landscape of quiet beaches, wooded trails, and some of the best kayaking in Suffolk County.

Then there’s Fire Island, a long, narrow barrier island where cars are largely absent and life moves to the rhythm of the tide. Boardwalks connect charming hamlets, each with its own personality. Days are for sunbathing, hiking through towering dunes, or photographing spectacular sunsets. Evenings might be spent dining on lobster, clams and oysters with the sound of waves in the background.

Whether you camp beneath the stars, stay in a quaint beach house, or dance the night away at one of its lively bars, Fire Island captures a rare blend of wild nature and creative spirit.

THE CATSKILLS

When it comes to wine country in the US, California might get the headlines, but the Catskills are making a name all for themselves. This four-region mountain escape is dotted with vineyards that range from boutique family-run operations to larger estates offering full tours and tastings.

And while summer is a natural draw for Long Island’s beaches, each season offers something special. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fewer crowds; autumn dresses vineyards and forests in golden hues; winter transforms upstate towns into cozy retreats.

Getting around is part of the adventure. A rental car will give you the flexibility to hop between small towns, vineyards, and trails, ferries connect the islands, while scenic roads in the Catskills and Hudson Valley reward slow, meandering drives.

THE HAMPTONS

It’s impossible to talk about Long Island without mentioning its crown jewel – The Hamptons. This collection of seaside communities has been a coveted summer playground for decades, attracting celebrities, artists, and anyone with an appreciation for luxury and leisure.

Each village has its own personality. Southampton, with its historic mansions, polo matches, and the pristine sands of Cooper’s Beach, epitomises Hamptons prestige. Culture lovers can explore the Parrish Art Museum or sip vintages at Duck Walk Vineyards.

Head east and the vibe shifts in East Hampton, where couture boutiques and cozy cafés line the quaint main street. Out in Bridgehampton, rural charm meets refined

The charm here lies in its harbour towns and their New England feel – think sailboats bobbing in the water, local seafood shacks, and cobblestone streets perfect for an afternoon stroll. Drive further east and the manicured lawns give way to the farmlands of the North Fork, a slower-paced haven known for its wineries, local food markets, and farm-to-table dining.

NORTH FORK

Known affectionately as NOFO, the North Fork boasts more than 60 vineyards, along with a wide range of breweries and craft spirits distilleries. Wine tasting here is as unpretentious as it is delightful. You might sip a crisp Sauvignon Blanc while overlooking a sun-dappled vineyard or try a bold Merlot in a rustic barn-turned-tasting room. Autumn – when the Ryder Cup is on – brings harvest season, when roadside farmers’ stalls overflow with pumpkins, apples, and late-summer vegetables.

SOUTH SHORE

If the North Fork feels rural, Long Island’s South Shore is pure seaside energy. Whitesand beaches stretch for miles, with Jones

Some wineries craft their vintages from imported grapes, while others take advantage of the fertile local soil to produce bottles that truly reflect the land. Just 90 minutes from New York City, the area between the Shawangunk Mountains and the Hudson River is one of the oldest winemaking regions in the US. The Shawangunk Wine Trail features a mix of historic estates and modern tasting rooms, many with panoramic views over the valley.

Here, wine tasting often blends with history lessons, as many vineyards occupy land with deep colonial and Revolutionary War roots. It’s a place where you can toast with a chilled Riesling in the afternoon and dine in a centuries-old inn by evening.

So next time you think of New York, picture more than skyscrapers and subways. Picture, instead, sandy beaches, vineyard picnics, mountain sunsets and, of course, great golf courses!

For more information and things to do and where to stay in New York state, visit www.iloveny.com

■ WOLFFER ESTATE VINEYARDS ON LONG ISLAND

■ PONQUOGUE BEACH, HAMPTON BAYS

■ OLD WESTBURY GARDENS

■ MONTAUK LIGHTHOUSE

ISLAND GEMS & WOODLAND RETREATS

W

hen people think of golf in New York, their minds often drift to storied private clubs like Shinnecock Hills, National Golf Links of America, or Fishers Island

– each of which feature courses inside America’s top-10 lists – but for golfers without the golden ticket to such exclusive private venues, there is still an abundance of scenic, challenging, and accessible public golf options spread across the state – from Long Island’s Atlantic shoreline to the misty air near Niagara Falls. Here’s a closer look at just some of the 24 publiclymanaged courses in New York State that are worth adding to your gol ng itinerary.

ROCKLAND LAKE GC, ROCKLAND COUNTY

Located 25 miles north of New York City, Rockland Lake State Park, set on the western shore of the Hudson River, offers both an 18-hole championship course and an 18hole par-3 course.

The par-72 layout plays 6,349 yards from the yellow tees and features narrow, often sloping fairways and greens with subtle breaks. Although two of the par5s are over 550 yards, it’s still a course that rewards accuracy over brute strength.

The 2,400-yard, par-3 course is also well worth a look, and with holes ranging from 110 yards to 212 yards, its dramatic elevation changes make for tricky club selection while also offering wonderful views of Rockland County and the Hudson River Valley from its high points.

Beyond golf, the park offers an Olympic-sized pool, picnic areas, tennis courts, hiking trails, and fishing –making it an excellent choice for a full day of outdoor activities.

MONTAUK DOWNS GC, LONG ISLAND

Few public courses in New York inspire as much devotion as Montauk Downs, which is located about a mile from the Atlantic Ocean on the far eastern tip of Long Island. Originally opened in 1927 and redesigned by Robert Trent Jones Sr in 1968, it is known for its rugged challenge, ocean winds, and ever-changing conditions.

At almost 7,000 yards from the tips, the par-72 course can play significantly longer when the wind is

up – which it often is. The signature 12th hole, a 220yard par 3, might require anything from a 9-iron to a driver depending on the direction and strength of the wind. Water hazards are strategically placed to test your nerve, fairway bunkers are very much in play, while risk-reward opportunities tempt aggressive approaches.

Once you watched the best players in action at Bethpage Black, it’s time to strike out on your own golfing adventure at some of the other 20plus publicly owned courses in Southern New York, which promise a heady mix of seaside challenges and tree-lined classics.

Locals know that early morning tee times are in high demand, with some golfers even camping overnight to secure prime weekend spots.

For New York State residents, the discounted green fees make it one of the best value courses in the area, but it’s also good value for visitors, with green fees starting at $52 for twilight midweek rounds, rising to $96 for peak weekend tee times.

The surrounding parkland offers more than just golf, with hiking trails, historic sites, and nearby beaches making Montauk Downs an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.

ROBERT MOSES GC, LONG ISLAND

Tucked away on the western end of Long Island’s Robert Moses State Park, this seaside 1,425-yard pitch and putt course offers a relaxed, but exceptionally entertaining short game challenge. The par-55, 18-hole layout, with holes measuring from 60 yards to 120, winds through native beach vegetation, providing a quiet escape just steps from the Atlantic Ocean. While it lacks the length of a traditional course, its oceanside setting, with holes in every direction, gives rise to tricky scoring conditions when the wind gets up and the greens are firm.

SUNKEN MEADOW, LONG ISLAND

Sunken Meadow, which is located due north of Bethpage, on the sound side of Long Island, offers 27 holes of excellent golf across the Yellow, Blue and Red nines. All three nines were designed by Alfred Tull in the 1960s, with the Yellow and Blue layouts showing striking similarities to the courses of the same name at Bethpage Park, which Tull also had a hand in creating. Whichever loop you play, all place a sizeable emphasis on accurate driving, so if you fail to find the fairway, you will be in for a long day of pitching sideways and hoping your putter will save you. Changes in elevation and mature woodland add to the challenge of the courses and the beauty of the setting.

SAG HARBOUR, LONG ISLAND

Situated on a peninsula and surrounded by woodlands and wetlands on the eastern section of Long Island, Sag Harbour’s architectural history remains a mystery, but it’s clear that the person who laid out this entertaining

9-holer knew something about strategy. No two consecutive holes on the 2,732-yard, par-35 layout run in the same direction, with every hole that moves left to right offering another that switches back the opposite way. As a handwatered course, playing conditions are fast and firm, ensuring that low chasing shots and bump ‘n’ runs pitches will reap more rewards over aerial assaults. Green fees for 18 holes are $35 at weekends and $25 during the week, representing great value.

DINSMORE GC, STAATSBURG

Overlooking the Hudson River, some 90 miles north of downtown NYC, with the Catskill Mountains as a backdrop, Dinsmore offers one of the most scenic public rounds in New York State.

Nestled within the Livingston Mills Memorial State Park, this historic layout began life as a private nine-hole course in the 1890s – and is listed as the United States’ third oldest golf course – before expanding to 18 holes in 1962. The 5,700-yard, par-70 layout is generous off the tee, with wide fairways, no water hazards, and forgiving bunkers, yet the rolling terrain and occasional tight approach will still keep you on your golfing toes. With green fees set at between $26-$30 a round, Dinsmore is also keenly priced, with cart rental available for $38, and a set of clubs for hire at $20.

PLANNING YOUR ROUNDS IN NEW YORK STATE

The months of September and October are a brilliant time to visit New York State for golf, with the autumn leaves in the Hudson Valley and upstate courses adding a vivid splash of colour to your round.

With great value green fees at dozens of public courses, less competition for tee times, and the climate dipping into more comfortable temperatures, it’s the perfect time to hit the links in this stunning part of the US.

So, load up your clubs in the hire car, turn on your GPS, and let your golfing adventure in New York State begin!

■ DINSMORE GOLF COURSE

■ THE CLUBHOUSE AT MONTAUK DOWNS OFFERS A GREAT PRO SHOP (ABOVE) AND GRILL ROOM

GALLACHER ON OAK

HILL 30 YEARS ON

In an exclusive interview with Jack Martin, the former European captain Bernard Gallacher looks back on the dramatic 1995 triumph in New York, shares memories of Faldo and Seve, re ects on the pressures of leadership, and gives his take on how the Ryder Cup has changed — and why winning away is harder than ever.

It’s 30 years since you captained Team Europe to Ryder Cup victory at Oak Hill. When you look back, what springs to mind?

The standout memory would be the way Nick Faldo holes that putt on 18 against Curtis Strange and Seve running onto the green to celebrate. Seve had lost his game by that point, but he was delighted for Nick and the team. It was an incredible moment.

Can you remember what the build up was like going into the 1995 Ryder Cup?

I didn’t want to captain the team. I had done it the two years previous and lost. I didn’t want to be a three-time losing captain. I was persuaded to take it on from the players. They believed we could do it. It was a shock victory. I was glad I took it.

What did you do di erently in 1995 compared to the previous two Ryder Cups?

I don’t think I did a lot di erent. It was a ip of a coin at Kiawah Island. They won it, of course, by a point. We were unlucky at the Belfry in ‘93. We had injuries. Sam Torrance couldn’t play with his toe. Bernhard Langer was struggling with an injury too. You need your best players t and strong. We didn’t have that.

Being 9-7 down ahead of the singles on Sunday, what was the key to the triumph at Oak Hill?

A few things. We liked the course. It was a it bit like Wentworth, especially at that time of the year. The weather was good for us. We got the pairings right, especially the singles. We packed it from the front. The Americans were two points ahead and we needed to try to win the match early on. I put our best players up against their best players. Colin Montgomerie beat Ben Crenshaw, the Masters champion. Faldo beat Strange. We got o to a ying start and didn’t look back.

Which player from 1995 had the biggest impact on the team?

I wouldn’t say there was one player who was the most inspirational. We all felt sorry for Seve. He put so much into it over the years, and he was unfortunately on the slide by then. He wanted

to continue. He always had a massive impact on the team. When he won the fourballs with David Gilford on the Friday, it gave the players a big boost.

Did you factor the New York crowd into your team talk?

No the crowd were pretty good to us at Oak Hill. There was little animosity. The membership there are respectful. It’s a very traditional golf club. This year in New York will be di erent for Luke Donald’s team, just like my team experienced at Kiawah Island when they were booing our putts.

Is it harder to win an away Ryder Cup now than it was 20 or 30 years ago?

De nitely. Look at the last few results, going back to Hazeltine. The home team always wins now. It’s not great for the Ryder Cup. You have to go back to 2012 Medinah for the last time an away team won. The home crowd makes such a di erence now. It made a huge di erence at Le Golf National and Whistling Straits in particular.

How has the Ryder Cup changed? The celebrations. They were muted back then.

When we won at Oak Hill,

we stood around the 18th green and had a drink. But no drinking contests. There wasn’t a lot of television. We were all getting up the next morning to catch a ight back home.

How did the victory impact your career? It didn’t do much for me. I just went back to my club job at Wentworth. I’d already played in eight Ryder Cups. Captained two. I was happy to win one. I felt pressure to be a winning captain. I could relax.

How has the captaincy changed?

I think the captain plays an important role but too much is made of them. It’s an overrated position. Of course, you have to think on your feet and make speeches but it’s the players who will win you the Ryder Cup. Nowadays the captains have to promote the event. That’s why I think Tiger Woods doesn’t want to take it up. You have to go to events and functions. Luke Donald is a fantastic ambassador for all of that.

How do you think Team Europe will fare at Bethpage Black?

I think Europe will do well because they have a very strong team. The ght will be lead by Rory McIlroy. You have Shane Lowry and Victor Hovland, too. These are top players. But the spectators will play a major role in the result. Maybe the Americans will feel the pressure to win on home soil.

Are you pleased to see the rise of Robert MacIntyre?

He’s a big-time player. He holes a lot of putts at the right time, just like a typical leftie. He isn’t fazed. I hope he makes the team. A great putter is what you need in a Ryder Cup and he’s that.

Which player do you like to watch most?

Scottie Sche er is a bit machine-like. I wouldn’t pay money to watch him. I love watching Rory. He puts himself out there. I’m glad he won the grand-slam. I also like Justin Rose, he’s a gentleman. It was di cult to watch them at the Masters. I didn’t know who to support.

How do you look back on your career?

■ ROYAL BIRKDALE, 1969: BERNARD GALLACHER AND MAURICE BEMBRIDGE PROUDLY REPRESENTING BRITAIN IN RYDER CUP BATTLE.

■ GALLACHER AND BALLESTEROS SHARE A MOMENT OF GLORY AFTER EUROPE’S UNFORGETTABLE RYDER CUP WIN

Becoming club pro at Wentworth was circumstantial. I was playing with the pro there at the time and he died. The club then o ered me the role. In an idea world, I should have taken it ve years later as I was just starting my career. It a ected my competitive golf. It was a British tour in those days, not a European tour. There wasn’t as much money in it.

After a heart attack in 2013, how’s your health these days?

It was scary. I’m still monitored once a year by a consultant. He says everything is OK and that it could have happened anytime in my life. I try to keep healthy by going to the gym most days.

How do you ll your time these days?

My family. I’ve got grandsons who play golf. I go to the gym in the morning. I hit a few balls at Wentworth when I’m nished. In the afternoons, I pick my grandsons up from school and help them with revision. I go to Spain quite a lot, too.

Where will you be watching the Ryder Cup from?

I’ll be going. I haven’t missed a Ryder Cup since 1969 and I don’t intend to miss this one. I’ve been there as a player, captain, vice-captain, a pundit for BBC Radio and now as a guest of the DP World Tour. I’m looking forward

All

KINGS OF DISTANCE

TRIED & TESTED

Bettinardi

Antidote Sb2

Putter

Parup

Golf App

Callaway Wedges

Ping Driving Iron

Mizuno Irons & Wedges

Toulon Putters

Vega Wedges

Titleist Irons

EQUIPMENT NEWS

BETTINARDI ANTIDOTE SB2 PUTTER

Putting has evolved over the last few years. Mallet putters are dominating tour usage, with Scottie Sche er being the best advertisement for making the switch, while even Bettinardi’s Matt Fitzpatrick has moved to a mallet putter. On top of that has been the growing in uence of zero-torque putters. L.A.B. Golf have become the hottest name in putters with their unconventional designs. Bettinardi have combined these two trends, along with their Milled in the USA craftsmanship, to create the Antidote SB2. But what exactly is a zerotorque putter and how could it help

you? According to Bettinardi, the Simply Balanced zero-torque putters are engineered for ultimate stability, keeping the face square throughout the stroke, regardless of swing path, giving you unmatched control and consistency on the green. The centre of gravity lies exactly in the middle of the putter. There is no torque being applied to the shaft from how it is attached. Think of how a heel-shafted putter wants to open up during the stroke. Crafted in two parts, the face is

PING LAUNCHES IDI DRIVING IRON WITH NEW SOUND AND FEEL TECHNOLOGY

PING has introduced its new iDi driving iron, targeting better players who want precision, versatility and trajectory control at the top of the bag. The series is o ered in 2 (17°), 3 (20°) and 4 (23°) irons, each optimised for launch and spin to provide speci c ball- ight options. The 2 iron is designed for low launch and spin o the tee, while the 3 and 4 irons serve as long-iron replacements with higher launch characteristics for improved control into greens

The iDi combines a forged maraging steel face with a 17-4 stainless steel body, producing higher ball speeds and improved stopping power. Its shape is more compact heel-to-toe, with a 1° atter lie and shorter lengths to encourage shotmaking control.

A highlight of the design is PING’s new inR-Air technology. A pocket of air, built behind the face, activates at impact to reduce undesirable frequencies, signi cantly enhancing feel and sound.

“We continue to evolve our approach to engineering ‘top of the bag’ clubs for better players,” said John K. Solheim, PING CEO & President. “We see the iDi as a great alternative for certain types of course conditions or if someone is looking for a long-iron or fairway-wood replacement.”

The iDi is available now, priced at £295 per club. Pingeurope.com.

milled from 303 Stainless Steel and features F.I.T. FACE milling, which removes 55% of the face material for a softer feel, while the body is milled from 6061 Aluminium.

The putter has a unique look. It’s all straight edges and angles. In fact, if it wasn’t for the corner cut-outs, you’d essentially be putting with a square. With the contrast between the face and the rear, as well as the trio of alignment lines, this putter is incredibly easy to line up, and I’ve learned that a contrasting top line

really helps me square the face to the target.

Bettinardi putters have always been known for their feel, and this de nitely has the best feel – and with that, the best distance control – of any zero-torque putter I’ve tested. Having that milled steel face is de nitely something I prefer, as it adds a familiarity. It anchors the modern tech with a feel that many golfers obsess over.

It’s an easy putter to swing, and the face tracks online throughout the stroke.

REVIEW OF PARUP GOLF APP

By Matt Nicholson

I recently had the pleasure of playing 18 holes at The Leatherhead Club with the two founders of ParUp Golf, Ian Lowther and Andy Dymock. Over the round, I got to see their app in action, and I have to say,I was really impressed.

The app was great fun to use and incredibly straightforward. It made scoring e ortless, kept everything well organised, and added an extra layer of excitement to the game.

For me, that’s exactly what golf with friends or a society day should be about easy to arrange, competitive, and full of banter.

What I really like is how much the app takes away the usual headaches.

No more juggling spreadsheets, chasing people on WhatsApp, or dealing with mates who forget their tee times. Instead, everything is managed inside the app: event details, scores, handicaps, even side games like nearest the pin or longest drive.

Some of the features that really

stood out to me were the ability to play at over 39,000 courses worldwide, the simple scheduling tools with instant event links for groups, and the live leaderboards that keep everyone engaged during the round. I also liked the automated handicaps, which help keep things fair, and the personal round history that lets you look back on your best and worst scores.

For anyone who’s ever organised a golf trip, society day, or even just a weekend fourball, this is a real gamechanger. It makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable, while still keeping the competition alive. What makes it even better is that it’s completely free to download on the App Store and Google Play.

Honestly, after using it myself, I can see ParUp Golf becoming the go-to app for golf groups everywhere. If you’re looking to bring some order, fun, and proper bragging rights into your golf days, I’d de nitely recommend giving it a go.

It wasn’t perfect, though. I never feel totally comfortable with centre-shafted putters. That’s a me thing; years of using a heel-shafted model will do that to you. While it is easy to line up, there’s quite a lot going on at the top of the putter: two colours, three alignment lines, and some unexpected angles. It’s not ugly, but it de nitely isn’t classic-looking, unlike the Antidote SB1.

And my biggest issue with zero-torque putters was front and centre here. Literally. To get the centre of gravity in line with the shaft, the shaft generally enters the head further back. Without the excessive shaft lean of other models, I found an issue. If I wanted the ball just inside my front heel, my hands felt too far back in my stance. Put my hands where they feel comfortable, and the ball is almost outside my lead foot.

Using a zero-torque putter takes some getting used to. It’s not necessarily plug-and-play. But if you are searching for a change on the greens, but love that traditional soft milled steel feel, then this is a putter you have to try. £439 | Bettinardi.co.uk

TITLEIST LAUNCHES ALL-NEW T-SERIES IRONS WITH INTRODUCTION OF T250 MODEL

Titleist has o cially unveiled its latest T-Series iron line-up, introducing an all-new four-model family designed to deliver greater performance, consistency and feel across every strike. The new range includes updated versions of the T100, T150 and T350 irons, alongside the brand-new T250 – the company’s rede ned player’s distance iron. A new T250 Launch Spec has also been added, built to provide higher launch and carry for golfers seeking extra stopping power into the greens.

Each model in the new series is built to o er speci c performance bene ts while blending seamlessly with one another, re ecting how most golfers now play mixed iron sets. Titleist says around 80 per cent of its Tour players currently game a blend of at least two T-Series models, demonstrating the importance of custom tting to maximise performance.

MODEL OVERVIEW

All irons are £197 per club The new T100, already the most played iron on both the PGA and DP World Tours, continues to serve as the modern tour iron. Its forged multimaterial construction, thin topline and minimal o set deliver precision and feel, while updated Variable Face Thickness (VFT) and more aggressive grooves improve consistency in speed and spin across all conditions.

The T150 is engineered as the faster player’s iron, sitting slightly larger than T100 to inspire con dence at address. Forged for feel, the model features one-degree stronger lofts and a re ned muscle channel for added speed and launch, making it the choice for golfers seeking a blend of tour precision with more distance.

The brand-new T250 arrives as a completely re-imagined player’s distance iron, o ering speed, launch and

forgiveness in a sharp, tour-inspired pro le. Featuring a forged L-Face construction, improved Max Impact technology and split tungsten weighting, T250 combines higher launch with consistent distance control. The T250 Launch Spec variant introduces lighter headweights and added loft to t golfers needing extra height and carry. Finally, the T350 positions itself as the ultimate game-improvement iron. With an L-Face design, enhanced Max Impact technology and perimeter tungsten weighting, it delivers highlaunching distance, forgiveness and consistency in a clean, modern look. Having hit the full range of irons, we’re looking forward to giving the T250 irons a long term test. Incredibly easy to hit, while still looking like a compact players iron, the shaping on these is arguably the best ever on a hollow bodied players distance iron.

Titleist.co.uk

BUNKER

MENTALITY EVOLVE WITH THE TIMES

Bunker Mentality has taken a bold step towards reshaping the way golfwear is made, introducing a fully on-demand production model that puts sustainability at its core.

Founded in 2002 in Nottingham, Bunker Mentality began life with bold, disruptive, graphic t-shirts, still printed locally today. Now, more than two decades later, the family-run company has evolved into a brand de ned by purpose as much as performance.

Every garment is now made to order, eliminating the need for mass production and the environmental impact of overstock and waste. Customers can choose from 24 sizes across three lengths, ensuring a precise t that matches the demands of modern golfers. Production is carried out in a rst-class Far East factory, operating to the highest technical and ethical standards.

Sustainability extends beyond manufacturing. Each piece is treated with Polygiene Stay Fresh

technology, allowing golfers to wear more and wash less, reducing both water use and energy consumption while extending the life of the garment. By eliminating warehousing and unnecessary logistics, Bunker Mentality has created a leaner, cleaner supply chain.

life of the garment. By eliminating warehousing

The company’s commitment to change is rooted in a belief that “mass production is broken” and that clothing should not only perform on the course but also re ect the values of the people wearing it.

made with the planet in mind – one piece at a

From Nottingham to over 55 countries worldwide, Bunker Mentality is proving that golfwear can be stylish, high-performing, and made with the planet in mind – one piece at a time. And with mostg shirst costing £70, proof that it’s no more expensive to order a bespoke custom t shirt than it is to buy o the rack. And with shirts taking around 10 working day to arrive, you won’t have to wait long either. Bunker-mentality.com

PRO SHOP

Your guide to the latest gear

Equipment editor Dan Owen casts his expert eye over the latest equipment launches.

CLEVELAND CBZ WEDGES

£159, CLEVELANDGOLF.EU

We aren’t tour pros so why do we use bladed wedges?

Well, according to Cleveland, maybe we shouldn’t. Cleveland Golf have used Z-Alloy, a proprietary softer, lighter steel to offer exceptional feel and control in the new CBZ wedges. Combining cavity-back forgiveness with bladelike responsiveness, it enhances spin through UltiZip and HydraZip technologies. A larger Gelback insert smooths vibration, while Full-Face and tailored grind options provide versatility and consistency across all short-game situations.

CALLAWAY CHROME TOUR

£55, EU.CALLAWAYGOLF.COM

Now this golf ball isn’t for everyone. But if you are a player who hits it hard, but needs the ball to stop, the Callaway Chrome Tour Triple Diamond is the breakout star of their ball line-up, and could be exactly what you are looking for. The four-piece design is the firmest ball in the family, and is seriously long off the tee. Fast off the tee, the ball will still spin around the greens.

CALLAWAY APEX AI150 IRONS

£1,199, CALLAWAYGOLF.COM

Callaway’s Apex Ai150 irons deliver a forged players’ shape with modern performance. The 1025 forged hollow-body design combines with Ai10x Face technology for precision and control.

A 455 face cup in the long irons (3–7) adds ball speed, while 17-4 stainless steel faces in the short irons (8–W) optimise spin and feel. Long, but forgiving and compact, plus a players’ feel. These will be a unicorn iron for some players.

PING NORSE COCOON JACKET

£200, PINGEUROPE.COM

While we’ve had a corking summer, the drop in temperature come September 1st was crazy. This new PING Norse Cocoon jacket will keep you swinging all year around with its two different types of PrimaLoft insulation, engineered for warmth and stretch. We’re big fans of the military inspired dark olive colourway, which isn’t the most common colour on the course.

TAYLORMADE MG5 WEDGES

£179 / £199 (TW GRIND), TAYLORMADEGOLF.COM

TaylorMade’s latest MG5 wedges have gone straight in the bag of many of their staff players who have embraced the fully forged soft feel. Saw-milled grooves and Spin Tread Technology maximise spin, even in wet conditions. With six Tour-inspired grind options, including Tiger Woods’ TW grind, the MG5 offers versatility, control and confidence for every short-game situation.

L.A.B OZ.1I HS PUTTER

£499, LABGOLF.COM

L.A.B Golf putters are the hottest commodity in the game right now. Their unconventional Lie Angle Balanced design has seen success on tour – including winning this year’s US Open – and in the boardroom, with a recent $200 million investment in the firm. But this is the first putter they’ve designed that will appeal to the normies who haven’t liked a centre-shafted design. With this, their first heel-shafted model, it gives golfers a look they’re more familiar with.

MIZUNO PRO S-1 IRONS

£215, MIZUNOGOLF.COM

The Mizuno Pro S-1 irons are pure muscle backs, built for players who demand ultimate precision and feel. Forged in Japan from 1025E carbon steel with a copper underlay, they deliver Mizuno’s signature soft feedback. A channel back design improves stability, while a re-engineered sole enhances turf interaction. Pure performance, tour-inspired. These aren’t for everyone obviously, but these are probably the prettiest set of irons this year.

BEN HOGAN PTX MAX DRIVER

£279.99, BENHOGANGOLF.CO.UK

CMC DESIGN BAZOOKA JOE HEADCOVER

£30, CMCDESIGN.COM

STITCH

With golf clubs getting wildly expensive post-Covid, it’s great to see a new driver that looks this good, at such a great price. The PTx Max driver is built for forgiveness and stability. With an MOI over 10,000, off-centre hits still fly long and straight. A carbon crown and sole weight lower CG for easy launch, while Speed Slot aerodynamics and variable thickness combine to boost distance.

The headcovers that come with your clubs are, shall we say, a bit boring. Yes, they keep your clubs protected, but do they help show your personality? CMC Designs offer a huge amount of different models to brighten up your golf bag. I lovethis Bazooka Joe Bubblegum cover for the level of detail, the multiple layers of the designs, and the different textures used make it really stand out. And maybe because it’s funny that my powder puff of a driver is now covered by something called a bazooka!

GOLF SL2 AIR WALKER CARRY BAG

£299, STITCHGOLF.CO.UK

The SL2 Air Walker is the ultimate choice for golfers who prefer to walk, delivering lightweight comfort without compromise. Its double strap design ensures balanced carrying while minimising fatigue. Offering 50% more storage than its predecessor, with stretch construction pockets, a magnetic ball pocket and durable YKK zippers, it blends practicality with style. Built from weather-resistant nylon, the SL2 Air Walker is sleek, durable and functional – performance-driven luxury for the modern golfer.

PING I240 IRONS

£190 (STEEL), £200 (GRAPHITE), PING.COM

Not everyone wants to hit their irons further, nor does everyone want to use a tiny forged players’ iron. PING’s i240 irons blend players-style precision with game-improvement forgiveness. The true cavity-back design lowers CG for distance and higher launch, while perimeter weighting boosts MOI. Tour-inspired grooves add spin and control, and an elastomer insert improves feel and sound. Forgiving yet workable, these will be played on tour, all the way up to high-teens handicappers.

WHAT’S THE NUMBER?

Rangefinders are ever evolving, with new styles, form factors, and technologies being added all of the time, so there is no better time to find the right model for your game. Here are nine of the best models on the market.

BUSHNELL TOUR HYBRID LASER GPS HYBRID RANGEFINDER

£519, BUSHNELLGOLFEUROPE.COM

The overwhelming #1 on tour, and trusted for its optical clarity, the Bushnell Tour Hybrid is the first rangefinder to combine slope-compensated laser and GPS distances in one device. Onboard GPS provides slope-adjusted front, centre, and back yardages directly in the display, while patented slope technology ensures tour-trusted accuracy. Features include Slope-Switch, PinSeeker with Visual JOLT, BITE magnetic mount, 6x magnification, and weather resistance.

With accuracy to a yard and range up to 1,300 yards, you can fully trust your numbers.

AMAZFIT BALANCE 2 SMARTWATCH

UK.AMAZFIT.COM

The Amazfit Balance 2 is a fully featured smartwatch with tracking for over 170 different sports and workouts. That includes integrated golf GPS, offering access to over 40,000 course maps worldwide. Its vivid display shows hazards, tees, and greens, while a built-in compass provides precise pin guidance, even when the green is out of sight. With slope and handicap integration, phenomenal 21-day battery life, and a 1.5” AMOLED display, it combines everyday usefulness with golf functionality.

SHOT SCOPE PRO L5 LASER

RANGEFINDER

£219.99, SHOTSCOPE.COM

The Shot Scope Pro L5 is the brand’s clearest rangefinder yet, featuring an ultra-clear OLED display for sharp visuals in any light. Combining laser precision with free GPS aerial maps via the Shot Scope app, it provides full course management, including hazards and green yardages. With Gen 2 Rapid-fire detection, Target-lock vibration, adaptive slope technology, and a built-in magnet, it delivers fast, accurate, and convenient performance.

CADDYTALK WINDY LASER RANGEFINDER

£329, JSINT.COM

The CaddyTalk Windy is the world’s first real-time windadjusting rangefinder. No more throwing grass up in the air! Featuring a built-in wind sensor, it automatically factors speed and direction into yardages for unmatched accuracy. Advanced optics and AI-driven calculations interpret playing conditions, while we’re also big fans of the Caddy Mode triangulation feature, which lets you shoot your ball and pin from the cart path so you know the yardage before you get to the ball, saving time on club selection.

PINNED PRISM+ LASER RANGEFINDER

£199

For anyone looking for a colourful rangefinder option, say hello to the Pinned Prism+. Available in five colours, it features a rechargeable battery that delivers over 70 rounds on a single 45-minute charge. First Target Acquisition locks onto the flag with precision, while slope technology calculates true playing distance for smarter club selection. A powerful built-in magnet secures the device to carts or clubs, and the 4K OLED display with one-touch operation ensures clear, reliable readings that are effortless to use.

SKYCADDIE PRO 5X GPS RANGEFINDER

£399, SKYGOLF.COM

SkyCaddie are the only rangefinder manufacturer that go out and map the courses themselves, picking up nuances a global GPS satellite never would. Featuring a vivid 5.5” colour touchscreen, it delivers detailed HD graphics of over 35,000 mapped courses, complete with auto-course selection, hole advance, and zoom. WiFi enabled for easy updates, water-resistant, and offering up to 18 hours of battery life, it ensures unmatched reliability and confidence on every shot.

MILESEEY GENEPRO G1 LASER GPS HYBRID RANGEFINDER

£369, MILESEEYGOLF.COM

The GenePro G1 combines advanced laser rangefinding with built-in GPS, displayed on a 2.13-inch AMOLED touchscreen. Combining the two rangefinders in one makes total sense. Offering maps of over 43,000 courses worldwide, it provides dynamic distances to the front, centre, and back of the green. Golfers can plan shots with precision, measuring distances even when obstacles block the view, delivering a seamless and interactive

SHOT SCOPE G6 GPS WATCH

£179.99, SHOTSCOPE.COM

Traditionally, I’ve not been a fan of watch-style GPS, but the Shot Scope G6 is easily the most comfortable and easy-to-use I’ve ever tested. With full hole maps, it gives golfers overhead views of every hole for better navigation. Preloaded with 36,000 courses, it provides accurate distances to greens, hazards, doglegs, and layup points. Lightweight at just 42g, it features a built-in scorecard, large daylight-readable display, interchangeable straps, and combines style, simplicity, and advanced GPS technology with no setup required.

PRECISION PRO TITAN ELITE

£399, PRECISIONPROGOLF.UK

Combining unbreakable build with smart tech, this rangefinder delivers dual-level accuracy with front, centre, and back yardages shown in the viewfinder. Slope adjusts for uphill and downhill shots, while lightning-fast lock-on gives target confirmation and pulse vibration. A precision aluminium shell and IP67 sealing ensure durability. A magnetic cart mount adds convenience, and app connectivity provides GPS distances, lostdevice alerts, and last-known location on the course.

CALLAWAY’S NEW OPUS SP WEDGES: MORE SPIN, MORE CONTROL

Callaway has unveiled the new Opus SP wedges, built to give golfers more spin, control and versatility around the greens. Designed with input from Tour players, the Opus SP combines advanced technology with a clean, con dent look at address.

The standout feature is Spin Pocket Construction, a re-engineered twopiece head design that shifts weight higher in the clubhead. This raises the centre of gravity to promote a lower, more penetrating launch with added spin. The result is greater stopping power and control, particularly when you want to ight shots down or attack tight pin positions.

The face has also been upgraded with Spin Gen 2.0 technology.

Tighter groove spacing and a 17° groove angle increase edge contact for consistent spin across di erent lies, while a deeper cross-hatch laser

pattern boosts friction for extra bite.

Looks and shaping were re ned through extensive Tour feedback, leading to the Shape 6 pro le. This design o ers a clean, compact appearance, and progressive shaping in the gap wedge ensures a seamless blend with modern iron sets.

Back by popular demand is the X Grind sole, o ering added bounce for forgiveness without compromising versatility. Whether you like to open the face for delicate greenside shots or need a reliable option on rmer turf, the X Grind delivers all-round performance.

Priced at £179 per wedge, the Opus SP is aimed at golfers who want Tourinspired short game performance by creating an advanced design that helps the golfer. eu.callawaygolf.com

VEGA GOLF LAUNCHES MOST COMPLETE LINE-UP YET WITH NEXT-GENERATION FORGED IRONS AND WEDGES

Premium hardware brand Vega Golf has unveiled its most advanced product lineup to date, combining traditional forging with innovative adjustability. The 2025 range features new irons and wedges designed to deliver the softest feel in the company’s history while o ering unprecedented levels of custom tting.

At the heart of the collection is Vega’s Interchangeable Weight Bar system, rst seen in the Mizar Pro Blade and now expanded across the full iron line. The technology enhances stability, energy transfer, and dispersion while allowing precise swing weight and launch adjustments. All models feature CNCmilled faces with precision grooves and micro-milling for consistent spin.

Headline addition is the Vega SS muscle back iron (£1,494), the brand’s most compact model yet, o ering exceptional

MIZUNO ADDS

control and workability with a re ned pro le. The acclaimed Mizar Pro Blade and new Mizar Pro Cavity Back sit alongside, designed to be blended seamlessly within a combo set. For golfers seeking greater forgiveness, the Lyra irons (£1,494) introduce Dual Weight Bars to ne-tune swing weight and stability, with an optional DLC Black nish (£1,794).

Completing the range are the Alcor X (£249) and Alcor Tour (£279) wedges. Forged from premium steel for Vega’s renowned soft feel, the Alcor X introduces tungsten toe weighting for a more controlled ight. The Alcor Tour, meanwhile, continues its innovative path with an interchangeable titanium sole plate system o ering low, mid, and high bounce options. www.vega-golf.com

STRIKING NEW FINISHES TO JPX 925 HOT METAL IRONS AND PRO T-3 WEDGES

Mizuno has expanded its line-up with fresh new dark nish options for two of its most popular models, the JPX 925 Hot Metal irons and the Mizuno Pro T-3 wedges.

Also joining the range in Black Ion are the Mizuno Pro T-3 wedges. Celebrated for their feel and forgiveness, the T-3 uses a shallow cavity back and slightly longer head pro le to add stability on o -centre strikes. Retaining Mizuno’s forging process, Quad Cut grooves, Hydro ow Micro Grooves and a copper underlay, the wedge continues to deliver the spin and control players expect. With three sole grind options, S, M and C, the T-3 caters to di erent short-game styles, while the darker nish o ers a clean, con dent look at address, especially in bright conditions.

These new nishes give golfers more choice without changing the performance. So there is no drop o in performance even when you want t play golf clubs Batman would be proud of.

The JPX 925 Hot Metal irons are now available in a sleek Black Ion nish. Known for combining distance with control and tting versatility, the Hot Metal range is built from a Nickel Chromoly chassis with tungsten weighting in the long irons to encourage higher launch and forgiveness. The new darker nish reduces glare and gives the irons a more modern, technology-driven aesthetic while maintaining the same consistency and speed across the face.

TOULON GOLF LAUNCHES FORMULA COLLECTION OF ZERO-TO-LOW TORQUE PUTTERS

Zero-Torque isn’t for everyone, but something close to it maybe. Thats what Toulon Golf believe withtheir new family of putters that expand on the idea of zero-torque while o ering solutions for a wider range of golfers and putting strokes.

The Formula series introduces three models to suit di erent stroke types. The Formula [CS] is a centre-shafted, very low torque option designed for golfers with a moderate arc in their stroke. The Formula [45] provides an even lower torque pro le, with 45 degrees of toe-up, for players with shallower arcs. The Formula [90] delivers a true zero-torque design with 90 degrees of toe-up, staying square throughout the stroke making it ideal for golfers seeking a straight-back, straightthrough motion.

Each putter is built using multi-material construction to position the centre of gravity forward, producing over 6,000 MOI for forgiveness and stability. All models also feature Toulon’s championship-winning Deep Diamond Mill face pattern, engineered to create a more consistent roll with improved sound and feel.

Heavy Spec versions of all three putters are available, with increased head weight and a longer, heavier 15-inch grip for players seeking extra stability.

The Toulon Formula collection is available now, priced at £649 (Heavy Spec £699) | www.toulongolfeurope.com

A taste of harvest season at Cabot Bordeaux

Cabot Bordeaux has unveiled the Golf & Wine Package for those wanting to sample the very best of French re nement in the Médoc region of Southwest France.

The package has been curated for those seeking a unique experience in a region boasting some of the world’s nest wines. Perfectly timed for harvest season, this experience places guests at the crossroads of Médoc’s celebrated vineyards and France’s nest gol ng grounds. At its core are Cabot Bordeaux’s two acclaimed golf courses, both featured among the Top 100 in France. The Châteaux Course, ranked 9th nationally, is a masterpiece of golf architecture –designed by Bill Coore in 1987. The link to Cabot’s expanding portfolio is strong, as Bill Coore also designed Cabot Cli s in Canada and Cabot Saint Lucia in the Caribbean, producing two world-class courses within Cabot’s portfolio alongside his business partner, Ben Crenshaw.

The Vignes Course, also ranked among the Top 30 courses in France, o ers a distinctive layout set amidst the natural beauty of the region. Together, they make Cabot Bordeaux an exceptional destination for discerning golfers.

Whether part of a wine-led journey through Bordeaux or a broader French-inspired itinerary, the Golf & Wine Package is an excellent opportunity to explore the Médoc region.

The Golf & Wine Package includes:

• Two nights in a Classic Double Room with breakfast

• One green fee per person (Châteaux or Vignes course, subject to availability)

• One three-course dinner per person (beverages not included)

• One bottle of Bordeaux wine in the room as a welcome gift

• One visit and wine tasting at a prestigious Médoc château (transport not included)

• Complimentary access to the Spa by Cinq Mondes

The region’s temperate climate allows for a later, more leisurely harvest than in many other wine regions, and many châteaux open their doors to guests for hands-on experiences, wine tastings, and unforgettable vineyard views. The harvest typically begins with early-ripening white grapes from late August to midSeptember, followed by the red varieties.

This o er is available for short breaks or extended stays, with prices from €764 for 2 people.

Guests can enhance their stay with curated wine adventures, such as blending their own vintage at Château Pape Clément, cycling the legendary Châteaux Route with a gourmet picnic in tow, or enjoying a day of re ned elegance – complete with vintage car travel, private tastings, and a signature golf ball massage at the spa.

From the vineyard to the fairway, Cabot Bordeaux captures the essence of French wine country with exquisite attention to detail –o ering a rare synthesis of world-class golf and wine experiences unlike any other.

Plan your autumn escape by contacting their reservations team or visiting our website: cabotbordeaux.com/golf/golf-and-wine, or reaching out to contact@cabotbordeaux.com.

The Belfry opens landmark development in record time

Words: Greg Evans

Two years after embarking on a multi-million-pound expansion project to reimagine its resort for the future, the award-winning Belfry Hotel & Resort, in the Midlands, is today unveiling the results of its transformative development. The independent hotel is opening the doors to its impressive events venue, state-of-the-art tness and leisure club and stunning new accommodation.

The Masters Suite and The Club amplify the destination resort’s worldclass leisure and events o ering.

Almost doubling The Belfry in size, its brand-new Brabazon House wing features 149 stylish bedrooms, including the resort’s rst-ever two-bedroom suite, and balcony rooms with unbeatable views over The Belfry’s legendary Brabazon golf course.

Chris Eigelaar, Managing Director at The Belfry Hotel & Resort, said: “This has been a passion project for us all, and it’s incredible that the day has nally arrived when guests can enjoy the complete Belfry Resort experience. For the past two years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to bringing this vision to life. Our guests have been the driving force behind every decision, and everything we’ve done has been with their enjoyment and experience in mind. To do all of this ahead of schedule shows trust and credibility from our clients, our guests and the industry, which is outstanding”.

A destination designed for unforgettable events, The Masters Suite is a beacon of style and exibility. At 852sqm, and with a max capacity of 920, it is the resort’s largest events space, receiving over £80m in enquiries and securing £10m in con rmed business before its much-anticipated opening. With sweeping oor-to-ceiling views, The Masters Suite is a breathtaking backdrop for everything from banquets and conferences to mini expos and weddings and is already the rst choice for high-pro le clients including DP World Tour and Teams Europe. It has received incredible support from industry associations such as the Meetings Industry Association, BEAM and 59club, all of whom are set to host their agship events there.

The heart of a wellness journey like no other, The Club is the ultimate home for all things tness. With a sleek design, the very latest facilities and natural light in abundance, highlights include a vast Technogym with views over the resort’s PGA National golf course, four spacious studios including dedicated yoga, reformer Pilates and spin studios perfect for an array of virtual and live-led classes, and an extensive multipurpose sports hall.

O ering much more than training facilities, guests will also discover a dedicated 25-metre lap pool, relaxing sauna, indoor and outdoor bubble pools, a revitalising steam room, and feature showers. This is as well as a large family-friendly swimming pool with ume, a children’s boulder wall, and a lively café with picturesque outdoor terrace.

Chris added: “As an independent resort, none of this would have been possible without our incredible team who have worked tirelessly to bring our vision to life with skill, ingenuity, enthusiasm and, above all, an unrelenting care for our guests. I am so proud of what we have accomplished together.”

Renowned for its world-class facilities, vibrant atmosphere and heartfelt hospitality, The Belfry has something for everyone. From its award-winning restaurants and bars to its thrilling Woodland Adventures, from its relaxing Spa to its three elite golf courses, and from its versatile meetings spaces to its Toptracer Driving Range. Today, The Belfry proudly secures its position as England’s Leading Resort and a world-class destination of choice.

For more information, visit: www.thebelfry.com

■ MANY ROOMS OVERLOOK THE FAMOUS 10TH HOLE ON THE BRABAZON COURSE

Cyprus welcomes its first TrackMan Range at Aphrodite Hills

Aphrodite Hills Resort in Cyprus has taken their practice facilities to a new level with the launch of the country’s rstever Trackman Range – a state-of-the-art golf practice facility that combines entertainment, innovation and performance like never before.

The landmark addition marks the latest phase of the resort’s multi-million Euro investment programme and reinforces its position among Europe’s premium sports destination.

O cially opening this August the all-new Trackman Range at Aphrodite Hills Resort will transform the way golfers of all abilities practice, learn and enjoy the game.

Trackman Range is a exible golf-ball tracking solution with tour-proven technology and the industry’s best virtual golf, practice, and entertainment software. The pioneering radar and camera technology tracks every shot in detail – from launch angle and spin rates to ball speed and carry distance – delivering instant feedback through interactive screens and mobile devices.

The new facility caters equally for serious golfers looking to hone their skills, players looking to warm up before tackling the acclaimed Cabell B. Robinson 18-hole championship course and for families and groups seeking fun, game-based experiences.

For the latter, guests can take advantage of virtual golf on some of the world’s most iconic courses or enjoy interactive games, competitions and challenges designed to make practice more engaging.

The Trackman range is further evidence of the commitment to cementing Aphrodite Hills Resort among Europe’s premium sporting destinations, with additional investment in upgrades including a new Starter Hut, Sports Hub for tennis and padel sports, and refurbishments of the spa, hotel, villas and restaurants.

For more information about Aphrodite Hills Resort and the new Trackman range, visit www.aphroditehills.com

Details expand po olio with addition of Troia Reso

Portugal’s largest golf management company will manage new investment and operations across the resort’s golf, hotel and lifestyle facilities. By Greg Evans

Details – Hospitality, Sports, Leisure – has extended its portfolio of golf courses and resorts in Portugal with the addition of Tróia Resort.

The popular golf and lifestyle resort has become the tenth golf venue to be managed by Details, joining the likes of *Vilamoura Golf, PGA Aroeira Lisboa, Palmares Ocean Living & Golf, and Vale Pisão operated by Portugal’s largest golf management company.

Situated just an hour’s drive from Lisbon in the Alentejo region and surrounded by a unique ecosystem and an exclusive golden-sand beach, Tróia has been an established name in Portuguese golf and the leisure market for more than four decades.

Tróia’s wide range of facilities includes an 18hole championship golf course and clubhouse, a 132-room ve-star hotel, a 242-room four-star hotel, a conference centre, a spa and a variety of tourist rental apartments and private residential accommodation. In addition, there is a marina, a beach and sports centre as well as a variety of retail outlets.

more than 500

rooms to the company’s portfolio. Nor n Group, which, like Details, is owned by Arrow Global, will take over the management of real-estate development.

Details will also take over running the beach and sports centre club, with a signi cant investment already being planned across the golf, accommodation and lifestyle amenities to elevate the guest experience being o ered to all golfers and visitors.

Nuno Sepulveda, co-CEO at Details – Sports, Hospitality, Leisure – said: “With its amazing location so close to Lisbon and with a wide array of sports and leisure facilities – including three hotels – Tróia has huge potential and all the ingredients to help make this region a unique destination for golfers to visit in Portugal.

“The resort has fallen slightly o the radar of travelling golfers in recent years but its quality is without doubt, and we’re thrilled to have this opportunity to reposition Tróia not only at the forefront of Portuguese golf but as an exciting new sports hub to the south of Lisbon.”

Under the terms of the acquisition agreement, Details will oversee the operation of the golf course, clubhouse and the three hotels – The

Golf de Moliets joins the Resonance Golf Collection

Resonance Golf Collection has announced the addition of Golf de Moliets to its prestigious portfolio of European golf destinations.

Con dently routed through 84 hectares of pine groves and open dunes, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Landes pine forest in France’s southwestern corner, this 27-hole venue strengthens the region’s status as a premier golf destination.

Ideally located between Bordeaux and Biarritz and just 30 minutes from the iconic Golf de Seignosse, another Resonance Golf Collection venue consistently ranked among Continental Europe’s Top 20 Golf Courses, Golf de Moliets o ers another compelling reason for discerning golfers to visit one of France’s most popular golf destinations, which has attracted both local and international players for over a century.

“Golf de Moliets embodies the values we champion at Resonance Golf Collection: authentic experiences, sustainable beauty, and a passion for the game,” said Sébastien Roussellet, CEO

of Resonance Golf Collection.

“Its unique setting, strong local character, and its notable reputation positions it as a cornerstone in the development of golf tourism in this vibrant region.”

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr, the 18-hole championship course at Golf de Moliets delivers a remarkable blend of challenge and beauty.

The gently undulating topography gives each hole a distinct personality, while the sandy soil ensures year-round playability. Complemented by a ninehole course ideal for beginners or shorter rounds, the 27-hole venue o ers something for golfers of every skill level.

“As part of the Resonance Golf Collection, Golf de Moliets will bene t from an ambitious, 15-year investment plan of over €8 million that will allow it to become not only a benchmark for gol ng excellence in both France and Europe but also a fully inclusive and sustainable site,” continued Sébastien Roussellet.

Francisco Moser, co-CEO of hospitality at Details – Sports, Hospitality, Leisure – added: “Tróia stands out as a destination with extraordinary potential. The combination of beach, easy access, sports facilities, accommodation, dining, and leisure makes it a complete and highly versatile product.

“With a broad accommodation o er, the resort is well positioned to meet the needs of a diverse set of audiences: from families and active travellers to corporate groups. The MICE segment represents a strong opportunity and, thanks to its integrated infrastructure, Tróia is ready to host team-building programmes, business events and large-scale gatherings, all in a distinctive and inspiring setting.

“We’re con dent that, under the management of Arrow Group, Tróia has everything it takes to establish itself just south of Lisbon as one of the most relevant resorts in Europe, both for leisure and for sport.”

Editory by the Sea, Aqualuz Tróia Mar and Aqua Luz Tróia Rio – adding

hotel

THE GREAT BRITISH GOLF BREAK

Golf News takes a closer look at some of the finest golf break destinations across the UK, perfect for those who want to combine memorable rounds on top-quality courses with the convenience of first-class hospitality. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway with friends, a family trip, or simply looking to escape for a couple of days of golf and relaxation, these venues offer the complete package. With comfortable rooms, excellent dining, and a warm welcome, all just a pitching wedge away from the first tee, you can be sure of an experience that’s as enjoyable off the course as it is on it.

FOXHILLS HOTEL & GOLF RESORT, SURREY

Foxhills has been part of the golfing furniture of southwest London since opening as a golf club in 1975. The car park at this family-owned 400-acre resort always seems to be full, thanks to its two championship golf courses, busy spa and leisure complex, 70-room hotel, and three restaurants.

The two superb layouts, the Longcross and the Bernard Hunt (named after the former Ryder Cup player) are as popular with corporate golf days today as they ever were, while there is a lovely little par three course to sharpen up your short game. Other facilities include three restaurants, 11 tennis courts, four pools and a £5m spa complex.

For golf break packages, visit foxhills.co.uk

DORSET GOLF RESORT, DORSET

The Dorset Golf Resort in Bere Regis has long held a reputation for being a quality golf break destination, thanks to its 27 holes of championship golf spread across its acclaimed Lakeland, Parkland and Woodland Courses, combined with its wide range of five-star accommodation.

The choice of quality accommodation, which includes 14 five-star eco lodge homes, two luxury cottages, and a 16-bedroom hotel, has been attracting stay-and-play golfers for many years, while the condition of the golf courses, and superb catering and hospitality, is clearly a winning combination for visitors.

The Woodland Course, which is cut through a forest of rhododendrons, boasts banks of pink, red and purple flowers through the summer, sparking thoughts of Augusta. The Lakeland and Parkland nine are also blessed with flourishes of rhododendron and cherry blossom, and the views across the huge lakes are spectacular. With a promise of no winter tees or temporary greens, nd excellent drainage, the courses are always presented in great condition all year round.

Ideally located to explore Poole and Bournemouth, as well as the wilder parts of the Jurassic Coast, there is plenty to do within just a few miles of the resort, while Bovington Tank Museum and Monkey World are just on the doorstep.

A one-night stay in the hotel, with two rounds of golf, dinner, and breakfast, starts from £99pp. For more details, call 01929 472244 or visit dorsetgolfresort.com

NORTH SHORE, LINCOLNSHIRE

Situated on the stunning Lincolnshire coastline, North Shore Hotel & Golf Club in Skegness offers the perfect blend of classic seaside charm and top-quality golf. The course, designed in part by the legendary James Braid, combines links-style holes along the shoreline with parkland fairways further inland, making it both scenic and challenging. Thanks to excellent drainage, the course remains in great condition throughout the year, ensuring a reliable golfing experience whatever the season.

For those planning a short break, the hotel provides everything needed for a comfortable and relaxing stay. Guests can unwind in spacious en-suite rooms, complete with modern amenities, before enjoying locally inspired dishes at James’ Restaurant, where evening meals are served with panoramic views across the North Sea. A full English breakfast sets golfers up perfectly for another day on the fairways.

The popular Sunday Night Golfing Getaway includes one night’s accommodation, two rounds of golf, dinner, and breakfast, with prices offering exceptional value. Whether you’re looking for a coastal escape, a sociable weekend with friends, or simply the chance to test your skills on a historic course, North Shore is an ideal destination for a golf break.

Add For further information visit northshorehotel.co.uk

THE

Favoured by England football teams and Premiership clubs with fixtures in London, The Grove is styled as London’s country estate, despite being located on the outskirts of Watford. But don’t let that out you off - the sweeping driveway offers glimpses of carpeted fairways and testing pin placements, while the hotel stands majestically on top of the hill waiting to welcome you in.

Visitors are faced with designer décor and a myriad of signposts directing to a myriad of diversions, from the pool, the spa, three restaurants, two bars, 220 bedrooms, and, of course, to the clubhouse, driving range, and the championship golf course.

Designed by Kyle Phillips, the 7,193-yard course, which hosted Tiger and his pals for a WGC event in 2006, defies its youth and blends seamlessly into the contours of the 300-acre estate. Oozing quality, tees are presented like snooker tables, fairways like rumpled carpets, while the large and undulating greens can play like glass in the summer.

After a round, golfers can relax in The Stables bar and restaurant, while two further restaurants – The Glasshouse and Collette’s – ensure guests will never be left hungry, while the fabulous Sequoia Spa is an equal attraction.

For the latest golf break offers, visit thegrove.co.uk

GROVE, HERTFORDSHIRE

LEGENDARY COURSES. SUPERIOR HOSPITALITY.

Golf was played in Charleston more than 100 years before the United States even became a country. The legendary 1991 Ryder Cup, deemed the “War by the Shore”, was contested at the famed Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, as was the 2012 and 2021 PGA Championship. Now the stage is set for the PGA Championship to return to the Ocean Course in 2031.

Learn more about playing any of the 20 championship courses in the Charleston area, by visiting EnjoyCharlestonGolf.com

THE JEWEL OF SCOTTISH GOLF

Earlier this summer, Gleneagles revealed itself in the best possible light, three days of uninterrupted sunshine across its legendary fairways. For a first-time visitor Matt Nicholson , there could hardly have been a better introduction. Over the course of three days, he set out to play the resort’s three iconic golf courses and quickly discovered that the only thing matching the quality of the golf was the standard of service, off course activities and incredible cuisine. From the first welcome to the final putt, Gleneagles delivered an experience that felt as effortless as it was memorable.

I’ve always wanted to visit Gleneagles. It’s been on my bucket list for years, especially to play its three main golf courses after watching the Ryder Cup and Solheim Cup on the PGA Centenary course. Peter O’Malley’s win on the King’s Course to take the Scottish Open is a memory that still stands out, and of course, there’s Terry Wogan’s famous long putt the longest ever witnessed on TV for many a year.

The trip began in the early hours of the morning. My alarm went off at 4:45 a.m., and soon after I was at Gatwick Airport, moving quietly with other travellers through check-in. My destination was clear in my mind Scotland’s most famous resort I had long wanted to see.

The flight to Edinburgh took less than an hour, but it felt like stepping into a different world. The neat fields of southern England gave way to Scotland’s hills, rivers, and stretches of heather. By the time we landed, the sky had cleared, and the soft northern light made everything look sharper.

entrance gave probably the best welcome you could wish for.

When Gleneagles welcomed its first guests on 7 June 1924, the press hailed it as “The Palace in the Glen,” “A Riviera in the Highlands,” and even “The Eighth Wonder of the World.” It quickly established itself as a retreat for high society.

Inside, the lobby was elegant without being overdone, wood-panelled walls, polished floors, and a large floral arrangement at the centre. At the desk, the receptionist handed me my room key, “You’re in Gleneagles now make yourself at home.”

My room was just a short wander past the little avenue of shops inside the hotel, and it felt wonderfully luxurious. The bed was unbelievably comfortable, the benchmark fluffy towelling robe and the balcony gave me a lovely view over the front of the property. Even though the hotel has 233 bedrooms and suites, it still felt cosy and welcoming, almost like staying in a boutique hotel.

THE FIRST TASTE OF THE GLEN

Our driver met us at arrivals and took our group on the journey to Gleneagles up the M90 past the famous Kelpies equine sculptures on our trip just over an hour.

The nal turn-o brought us up the driveway to the hotel, a view I had seen many times in photos but which was far more striking in person.

The building itself stood solid and impressive, with its stone façade and tall chimneys.

Manicured lawns stretched out in front together with a classic Green Rolls Royce, the staff at the

The Century Bar was my rst stop, and it was here that Gleneagles’ reputation for blending tradition with contemporary air began to make sense.

The room had an art deco elegance rich velvet seating, brass accents, and sunlight pouring through tall windows to catch the glow of a hundred whisky bottles lined up on shelves. The atmosphere was relaxed yet purposeful.

I ordered the aged Speyside Burger, and a crisp elder ower tonic. I would recommend this to anyone.

THE CENTENARY CHALLENGE

If The Century Bar was the heart of Gleneagles, then the PGA Centenary Course was surely its muscle, powerful, challenging, luckily, I had Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the course has hosted both the Ryder Cup in 2014 and the Solheim Cup in 2019. From the moment I stepped onto the rst tee, I could feel its pedigree. ›

■ THE GLORIOUS LUXURY FIVE STAR HOTEL AT GLENEAGLES

A short warm-up at the PGA National Golf Academy had shaken off any stiffness from the journey. The facilities were immaculate, practice bays, chipping areas, and putting greens that mirrored the exact conditions out on the course. My buggy was waiting, clubs polished and ready, and soon I was rolling toward the first fairway.

The Centenary’s design is a masterclass in drama and detail. Bunkers sit where they can’t be ignored, water hazards are deceptively placed, (especially the par 5’s) and fairways rise and fall in long, sweeping curves. The breeze, that ever-present Scottish playing partner, was helping a drive on one hole, undoing careful planning on the next. Yet each hole seemed to invite you to try again, to outthink the landscape just once more.

There’s something humbling about playing a course where history has been made. At one point, I paused to take in the view from an elevated green, the hills stretching into the horizon, and thought of the pressure-packed putts holed here under Ryder Cup tension. My own game stood up quite well scoring an 80 with the advice of Bill Murray who is Senior Brand Manager at Gleneagles and who guided me around the course and helped me shoot the best round of the trip.

EVENINGS IN STYLE

Later, I joined my fellow guests in The Cellar for pre-dinner drinks. This was no ordinary wine cellar; it felt like a secret club, with arched ceilings, warm lighting, and shelves of bottles from across the globe. Our sommeliers guided us through the hotel’s 17,000 bottles of wine in an experience I will never forget.

Dinner that night was in The Birnam the hotel’s newest restaurant, where the atmosphere was relaxed but refined. I chose The Ribeye, paired with earthy root vegetables and a rich red wine jus. Every bite was a reminder that Gleneagles’ culinary reputation is as well-earned as its golfing one.

There was something undeniably special about the Birnam Restaurant at Gleneagles a lively atmosphere where every table seemed to be in great spirits, creating a buzz that’s hard to put into words. It’s inspired by the grand Parisian cafés of the early twentieth century and they’ve done an incredible job in making this happen.

GOLF FIT FOR A KING

The next morning began in The Strathearn Restaurant, a space that channels the elegance of a bygone era. Tall windows framed views of dew-silvered lawns, while silver coffee pots and fine china gleamed on white tablecloths. I indulged in a full Scottish breakfast: eggs, tattie scone and thick-cut bacon. Outside, the day promised to be bright and still, a gift for the game ahead.

The King’s Course, designed by James Braid, is the kind of course that makes you fall in love with golf all over again. It’s a study in how to use

IF HEAVEN IS AS GOOD AS THIS, I SURE HOPE THEY HAVE SOME TEE TIMES LEFT.

LEE TREVINO

natural terrain, with holes framed by heather and gorse, and fairways that seem to rise and fall like the rhythm of a heartbeat. This course hosted the world’s first ever match between British and American professionals, and there’s a sense of walking in the footsteps of history with every shot.

The course underwent an extensive restoration programme in 2016, which included taking the fairway cut lines back to the original James Braid design, alongside a comprehensive bunker refurbishment programme designed to aid drainage and further enhance the aesthetic design of the 18 holes.

I was lucky to be playing with Director of Golf Andrew Jowett, who guided me around the course and told me of their exciting news, that they would be hosting the 2026 ISPS Handa Senior Open.

In my view, the King’s Course just edged ahead as my favourite of the three, though there’s hardly anything to separate them.

At the halfway house, which caters to both the King’s and Queen’s Courses, you’ll find excellent Scottish fare, I’d particularly recommend the steak pie.

FROM HAWKS TO HATCHETS

The afternoon’s pursuits moved away from the greens. In a wide, open field, I slipped on a falconer’s glove and waited. The Harris Hawk circled overhead before swooping down to land

■ THE DORMY CLUBHOUSE HAS FINE VIEWS OF THE COURSES AND SCOTTISH COUNTRYSIDE

■ THE JACK NICKLAUS DESIGNED PGA CENTENARY COURSE IS A MODERN MASTERPIECE

■ RICHARD SCOTT GAVE A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE WITH ONE OF THE MANY BIRDS OF PREY AT GLENEAGLES

■ THE KING’S COURSE WAS DESIGNED BY JAMES BRAID

with a controlled force that sent a thrill through me. Its eyes were sharp, scanning the world in a way that made you feel both privileged and slightly scrutinised.

Then, from precision to raw arcuately axe throwing. Lined up before thick wooden targets, after some instruction from Harry…we soon gave him the nickname of Harry the Hatchet, we took turns hurling tomahawks, the satisfying thunk of a blade sticking prompting cheers and laughter. It was friendly competition at its best.

The day ended with cocktails in The American Bar, a glamorous space with deep leather seating, polished brass, and a cocktail list that reads like a love letter to the art of mixology.

Dinner at The Strathearn which One of Scotland’s most sophisticated yet buzzy destination restaurants,, each course a celebration of Scottish ingredients, from hand-dived scallops to slow-cooked lamb, but many of my dining partners went for the Beef Wellington, which I would also recommend.

Although we didn’t dine there, Gleneagles deserves a special mention as it is home to the two-Michelin-starred restaurant Andrew Fairlie. In 2017, it became one of only four UK establishments to join the prestigious Les Grandes Tables du Monde. The late Andrew Fairlie, one of Scotland’s most celebrated chefs, left a lasting legacy, his menu and philosophy live on, showcasing the finest Scottish ingredients elevated by classic French techniques.

THE LAST MORNING

On my final day, after another leisurely breakfast, we drove to The Gleneagles Shooting School. Nestled in the estate’s grounds, it’s one of the finest in the country. Clay pigeons arced against the sky, and with each successful shot came a rush of satisfaction.

Before departure, there was time for one last round on the Queen’s Course. Shorter than the King’s but no less enchanting, it winds through woodlands and opens onto views that seem almost too perfect to be real. Somewhere here, Alan Shepard better known for hitting

a golf shot on the moon, once played, and that small piece of trivia added a touch of the extraordinary to an already remarkable morning.

The Queen’s course in the prettiest of the three courses, the Course underwent a renovation programme that finished in 2017, which included lining the 89 bunkers to help maintain perfect playing conditions, as well as taking the fairway cut lines back to Braid’s original design.

WHAT ELSE GLENEAGLES OFFERS:

Gleneagles Sporting Club

Opened in August 2024, Gleneagles Sporting Club is home to tennis, indoor climbing, and the fastest growing racquet sport in the world, padel.

Bob & Cloche

Bob & Cloche is our exciting beauty destination. Formerly one of the hotel’s gate lodges, it has been transformed into an elegant beauty lodge.

The Spa

The new spa at Gleneagles, a soothing haven from everyday stresses, where the welcome is warm, the spirits are lifted, and the pursuits of balance is the only option on the menu.

Little

and The Den are exciting adventure areas for junior guests. Little Glen, a colourful and fully supervised crèche for 2 – 9-year-olds,

Guests can also try their hand at off-roading; cycling; gundog training, game shooting and archery; ferret racing, fly fishing and visit the state-of-the-art equestrian centre.

take in all the memorabilia from the famous tournaments played at the iconic venue.

Soon after, I was in the car back to Edinburgh Airport, watching the turrets of Gleneagles recede in the rear-view mirror.

Gleneagles is more than a resort. It’s a rare place where history, nature, and hospitality converge, where each moment feels both entirely personal and part of something larger. In just three days, I’d walked in the footsteps of golfing legends, tasted the best of Scottish cuisine, felt the power of a bird of prey on my arm, and stood on the shore of a loch as the day gave way to night.

The Glen doesn’t just welcome you; it draws you into its story and sends you home with Scotland in your heart.

A final meal at The Dormy Restaurant provided the closing note, simple, hearty dishes enjoyed with the quiet contentment that comes after days well spent. They was also time to

For further information visit www.gleneagles.com

Little Glen & the Den

Glen

FROM THE FOOTHILLS TO THE FAIRWAYS:

THE ULTIMATE GOLF TRAIL IN ALABAMA

very golfer knows a straight shot is the simplest, most risk-free choice. So, it is with golf destinations. Sweet Home Alabama ts the bill with three international gateway airports less than two hours away (Atlanta, Nashville and New Orleans), plus connecting rst-class airports within and adjacent to the state (Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, Mobile, and Pensacola, FL). You’ll also nd that Alabama is worth a try with great value golf and yearround gol ng weather. The state is a varied landscape with mountains, rivers and lakes in the north, open plains in the centre of the state and the beautiful, coastal waters in the south. The unrivalled, original golf trail spans the length of it and the seaside destination of Gulf Shores-Orange Beach marks the end of the road.

Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is now over 30 years old and is still the largest golf construction project ever undertaken, with the original 8 locations being built at once in 1992 and all being designed by the master himself, Robert Trent Jones, Sr. The state itself gambled on this idea, with the goal of introducing a new traveller to this beautiful and welcoming Southern state. It has been an enormous success by all measures boasting 25 golf courses at 11 locations throughout the state, plus 8 hotels and resorts.

In the northwest corner is a 36-hole complex aptly named RTJ Golf Trail at The Shoals , as it’s located in Muscle Shoals, the hit recording capital of the world. The golf site features two championship courses, Fighting Joe, the first Trail course over 8,000 yards, and Schoolmaster, both situated along the banks of the Tennessee River.

Just across the river in Florence is the muchawarded Renaissance Shoals Hotel & Spa , one of eight properties in the RTJ Golf Trail

collection of hotels and resorts.

The RTJ Golf Trail at Hampton Cove in Huntsville offers 54 holes of scenic and challenging golf. The Highlands has the feel of a Scottish course, the River Course has the distinction of being the only Robert Trent Jones design without a single bunker, and the Short Course is a blast to play. Huntsville offers a selection of great hotels, plus a rejuvenated downtown with craft breweries and unique dining establishments, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, and a new, state-of the art amphitheatre, inspired and developed by Mumford & Sons’ Ben Lovett.

Birmingham has certainly become golf central, with the state’s most luxurious resort, Renaissance Ross Bridge Resort and Spa leading the way. The resort’s 18-hole layout flows in a cloverleaf fashion, returning to a central locale no less than five times. With intimidating length from the back tees, elevation changes, and water holes, the course presents a challenge, yet the RTJ Golf Trail at Ross Bridge is still a resort course at heart with wide fairways and receptive greens. Located just two kilometres away from

YOU’LL ALSO FIND THAT ALABAMA IS WORTH A TRY WITH GREAT VALUE GOLF AND YEARROUND GOLFING WEATHER.

Ross Bridge is the RTJ Golf Trail at Oxmoor Valley. It offers two unique full-length courses, Ridge and Valley, plus an exciting, new 9-hole, walking, short course, called The Backyard. And about an hour northeast of Birmingham, lies the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Silver Lakes . This site is made up of three really, tough 9-hole courses, suitably named Mindbreaker, Backbreaker and Heartbreaker. South of Birmingham, in the Montgomery suburb of Prattville is the Trail’s only site with three full-length courses, the RTJ Golf Trail at Capitol Hill. Situated so closely to the seat of government, the courses are called The Judge, The Senator, and The Legislator. GOLF Magazine once named the Judge Course one of 10 public courses in the country worthy of hosting a U.S. Open. The course offers stunning views throughout, especially on the first tee that sits 200 feet above the fairway overlooking the Alabama River. The Legislator is hilly and more traditional. The Senator is a Scottish linksstyle course with over 160 dreaded pot bunkers and mounds reaching as high as 40 feet. It

■ RENAISSANCE ROSS BRIDGE GOLF RESORT & SPA, BIRMINGHAM

■ RTJ GOLF TRAIL AT HAMPTON COVE, HUNTSVILLE

has hosted LPGA events for over 20 years. The on-site Marriott Hotel at Capitol Hill is a convenient place to stay, but for additional historical sites, nightlife, dining options, the downtown Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa is also a good choice.

Eighty kilometres east of Montgomery near Auburn University in the quaint town of Opelika is one of the most requested sites on the Trail. Robert Trent Jones, Sr. once said that the RTJ Golf Trail at Grand National was the single greatest natural site for golf he had ever seen. Grand National is built on a 600-acre lake with 32 of the 54 holes draped along its beautiful shores. The award-winning Marriott Golf Resort & Spa is located on the back nine of the Lake course and offers a true stay and play experience. Plus, the two quaint towns nearby offer many culinary and non-golfing adventures.

Located in Greenville, 64 kilometres south of Montgomery, the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Cambrian Ridge is another favourite. Set along the scenic southernmost edge of the Appalachian foothills, the changes in elevation are extraordinary here and the three championship 9- hole courses offer an unforgettable experience. Just 145 kilometres away in the southeast corner of the state, the RTJ Golf Trail at Highland Oaks in Dothan also consists of three championship nines plus a 9-hole short course.

In South Alabama, Mobile’s premier golfing facility is the RTJ G olf Trail at Magnolia Grove with 54 holes of superb Robert Trent Jonesdesigned tracts. The Crossings is very hilly, The Falls course features the par-five, 570-yard 10th, with a waterfall that cascades below the heavily contoured green, and the 18-hole Short Couse is one of the highest rated in the country. Mobile’s walkable downtown, with craft breweries, many restaurants, and nightclubs, is a perfect place to spend your evening, especially with the choice of two nearby RTJ hotels, the historic Renaissance Battle House Hotel & Spa and the Renaissance Riverview Hotel overlooking Mobile Bay.

The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, an Autograph Collection on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay offers superb dining, a European spa, exciting waterscapes, a beach along Mobile Bay and 36 holes at the RTJ Golf Trail at the Lakewood Club. The courses meander around spring-fed lakes and are framed by stately magnolias, oaks, and dogwoods, which have been around for quite some time. The resort itself has upheld a grand tradition of Southern hospitality, charm and elegance since 1847.

The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail is not your typical golf trip, with locales spread around

the state. Choose to stay in one location or plan to sample several of the very different Trail facilities and move about the state. What you will always find along Alabama’s Trail are pristine conditions, challenging golf, reasonable pricing and top-quality customer service.

Alabama’s Beaches and the towns of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach create one of the best destinations for quality golf. The beaches have that same powdery white sand that has made Florida’s Gulf Coast panhandle so desirable, sand so soft it practically lulls you to sleep. The Alabama beaches, though, generally also have considerably more elbow room during peak periods than their Florida counterparts. And the golf options are a better value and plentiful enough to warrant space in the vehicle for everyone’s clubs.

Here’s a snapshot of several of the area’s courses, with each flashing enough of its own style to make them all distinctive. Peninsula Golf and Racquet Club is 27 holes of classic Southern golf, winding through piney woods, plentiful water and nestling up to the edge of Mobile Bay on a couple of holes. Kiva Dunes Golf & Beach Resort is on a spit of land just 1,100 yards wide at its most slender point, meaning airflow above the golf course is influenced by the air exchange coming in from both the Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay. Traditionalists relish the chance to play in the wind on a links-style layout, so the appeal of Kiva’s site was always there. Kiva Dunes is considered the premier design in the portfolio of former U.S. Open champion Jerry Pate. The onsite beach resort, with linkside condominiums and beach homes, is a great option to stay and play.

Also located along the same road as these two courses is Gulf Shores Golf Club. It’s great

for a quick afternoon nine or as a first, 18-hole round to shake off any jetlag. Gulf Shores is the kind of course that is integral to the overall success of most golf trips. It’s a traditional parkland-style layout with plentiful water, of course, and very solid, true-roll greens.

The 36-hole complex of Craft Farms is not to be missed. The two courses here – Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend are the only Arnold Palmer designs in the state of Alabama. Everything at Craft Farms is as well-manicured as courses built on former sod farmland suggest they would be. The courses are inland, and have a conventional, golfer-friendly feel and look that often defines Palmer designs.

Once the golfing part of your day is done, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have plenty more to offer. There’s a broad array of quality seafood restaurants, and fishing and beachcombing are popular pastimes. Lodging options range from beachfront hotels and condominiums to golf resorts and beach houses. Whatever your preferences and price range, the concierge service at www.CoastalAlabamaGolf.com can help you sort through the area’s nine signature golf courses, as well as all the accommodations, dining and other recreational pursuits you envision adding up to an ideal trip.

GRANTOWN-ONSPEY GOLF CLUB: A HIGHLAND GEM WITH A PROUD LEGACY

Set in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, Grantown-on-Spey Golf Club is one of the most scenic and historic golf venues in the Highlands. Established in 1890 and designed by the legendary Willie Park with later input from James Braid, this charming 18-hole course offers a unique blend of heritage, playability, and natural beauty.

M

easuring 5,710 yards with a par of 70 and a Standard Scratch Score of 68, the course may not be long by modern standards, but it presents a fair challenge to golfers of all abilities. What sets it apart is its natural division into three distinct sections: the opening holes stretch over flat parkland, the challenging middle section through Highland pine forest, and the final stretch returns to undulating parkland, each offering a new perspective and a fresh test of skill.

Nestled in leafy surroundings and looked over by the striking Cairngorm mountains, the course is renowned for its tranquillity, wildlife, and panoramic views of the Cromdale Hills. Red deer, oyster catchers, and a host of native birds add to the rich Highland atmosphere that draws visitors from far and wide.

Located just 35 miles southeast of Inverness, in the small and welcoming town of Grantownon-Spey, the club is a favourite among golfing societies thanks to its friendly welcome, traditional charm, and inviting layout. The warm hospitality extends to the classic Clubhouse, perfectly positioned beside the first tee, where

hearty meals and a well-stocked bar await. Your Gateway to the Cairngorms; set amidst the stunning scenery of the Cairngorms National Park, Grantown On Spey Golf Club offers not only an exceptional golfing experience but also access to a wealth of outdoor activities. With worldrenowned whisky distilleries, prime fishing spots, and the scenic beauty of the Cairngorms right on our doorstep, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had.

Now, in 2025, Grantown-on-Spey Golf Club adds a new chapter to its rich story with the launch of the Bobby Cruickshank Hickory Experience – an immersive tribute to the town’s famous golfing son.

Born in Grantown-on-Spey in 1894, just 400 yards from what was then the original nine-hole course, Bobby Cruickshank discovered golf on the very fairways that many still enjoy today.

As a young boy, he learned the game and caddied at the local club, revealing his exceptional talent. His promising ability led to a life-changing move to Edinburgh under the guardianship of the Usher brewing family, where he furthered both his education and athletic development. That early foundation set him on a remarkable path - one defined by resilience, determination, and triumph, culminating in a celebrated career on the American circuit.

Bobby’s journey to golfing greatness was shaped not only by talent but by extraordinary resilience. His life took a dramatic turn when he enlisted to serve in World War I, facing the brutal realities of the Somme and Passchendaele, where he tragically lost his brother, John. Later captured as a prisoner of war, the first captive he encountered was a dysentery ridden Sandy Armour, his pre-war golf coach. By sourcing horse meat from the trenches he was able to nurse him back to health.

Bobby managed to escape by demonstrating the same courage and determination that would define his golfing career. After the war, he channelled that spirit into his sport, going on to become one of the most successful professional golfers of his time.

After emigrating to America in 1921, he won an impressive 25 Tournaments, was the 1927 leading money winner and finished runner-up in the U.S. Open on two occasions, including a dramatic playoff against the legendary Bobby

For more information and bookings, visit bobbycruick shankhickory experience. co.uk or call 01479 872079.

Jones in 1923. This playoff led to a lifelong friendship between the Bobbys. His golfing prowess saw him rub shoulders with Hollywood icons and famous figures such as Charlie Chaplin, Douglas Fairbanks, Harold Lloyd, the Duke of Windsor and the Duke of Marlboro. His retirement party in 1965 was attended by Bobby Jones, Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer, Gene Sarazen, Walter Hagen, Sam Snead, and many other golfing greats.

The Bobby Cruickshank Hickory Experience includes a round on the original nine-hole course using period equipment. Guests will also enjoy a short film and exhibition dedicated to Bobby’s life, including photographs, stories, and a display of rare memorabilia - featuring his famous Auchterlonie putter.

The experience is about much more than golf with vintage equipment. It’s a celebration of place and legacy, a way to reconnect with the spirit of Scottish golf in one of its most charming and historically rich settings. Grantown-onSpey is not just a backdrop – it’s where Bobby Cruickshank’s lifelong love of the game was forged among the hills, heather, and fairways of Strathspey.

To complete the Highland welcome, participants are treated to a nip of Speyside malt whisky, with an optional whisky tasting as part of the package. It’s an experience that brings together history, heritage, and hospitality in a uniquely Scottish way.

The initiative has the full support of Bobby’s granddaughter, Diana Smith, who has donated family keepsakes and personal stories to enrich the experience.

Diana Smith commented:

“My grandfather would have loved this! He would have been out there showing everyone how to hit hickory clubs while sharing a laugh. The creation of the Bobby Cruickshank Hickory Experience in his honor is such a fitting tribute to his love for the game. When I think of Bobby, the first word that comes to mind is fun. He always brought such warmth and joy to everything he did.

“The Highlands were his heart and soul. He had a special fondness for Grantown on Spey, the golf course, and the River Spey where he would often spend his days fishing. And, of course, he could never turn down a wee dram of whisky! I’ve had the pleasure of playing at the course many times –it’s a hidden gem with a charm that’s hard to beat. “

With support from the Berry Burn Community Fund and the wider Highland community, the Bobby Cruickshank Hickory Experience is a celebration of one of our golfing greats, ensuring the spirit of the game lives on for future generations to come.

To complete the Highland welcome, guests are offered a dram of Speyside malt whisky, with the option to enjoy a full whisky tasting as part of the package. It’s an experience that weaves together Scotland’s rich history, heritage, and hospitality. The Dram Caddy delivers a one-of-a-kind journey, pairing world-class golf with exclusive whisky tastings - guided by local expert and enthusiast, Hamish Malcolm.

All Aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express

La Dolce Vita Orient Express, a Special Partner of the 2025 Italian Open, has announced an exclusive golf tour departing Rome this November, passing through Tuscany and stopping at The Club at Castiglion del Bosco, Italy’s only private golf club.

The journey combines the heritage of luxury train travel with the prestige of some of Italy’s most celebrated golf courses, while highlighting the country’s cultural and natural beauty.

Castiglion del Bosco’s beautifully conditioned 18-hole golf course, set on sweeping grasslands under a renovated medieval village and overlooking the UNESCO protected Val d’Orcia landscape, is the only Continental European design of champion golfer and revered course architect Tom Weiskopf.

David Waters, General Manager & Director of Golf at The Club at Castiglion del Bosco, commented: “We are delighted to welcome guests of La Dolce Vita Orient Express for this very special visit to The Club at Castiglion del Bosco. Italy has become one of the great golf destinations of the world and there is no ner way to travel through the country and experience our golf courses than in the slow comfort of a luxury train.”

La Dolce Vita Orient Express launched two exclusive tours at the Italian Open. The Northern Greens itinerary in October begins in Rome and heads north, while the Italian Swing in November heads south, down through Tuscany to Puglia.

Complementing the train’s existing portfolio of eight itineraries, these curated experiences combine world-class courses with postcard-perfect landscapes, Michelin-starred cuisine, and the timeless charm of Italian lifestyle. Aboard, guests will be accompanied by an internationally renowned professional golfer for the duration of the journey.

Bookings are now open on the o cial website www.orient-express.com/ la-dolce-vita

Sicily’s Verdura Resort has unveiled a new clubhouse at the heart of its two championship courses, raising the bar once again for world-class gol ng experiences in Europe.

Positioned between the resort’s award-winning West Shore and East Links courses, the sophisticated venue brings together classic architecture, re ned nishes, and contemporary functionality to o er golfers an elegant space to relax, refuel and reconnect.

Curated by award-winning architects Paolo Moschino and Philip Vergeylen, the designers have used the heritage of traditional golf clubhouses as the inspiration to pay tribute to the game’s roots in every corner. From vintage golf posters and curated memorabilia to details such as golf-ball-inspired furniture and rich

wood panelling, the interiors blend classic elegance with character. Deep green tones, plush leather seating and mosaic ooring create a welcoming yet re ned environment, perfect for relaxing before or after a round.

At the heart of the new clubhouse is the club lounge and bar, situated directly beside the 18th hole of the West Shore course. Opening into a panoramic terrace, elegantly appointed with sofas and lounge seating, the space provides the ideal setting for players to enjoy a post-round drink while basking in uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean Sea and the verdant fairways. Inside, the atmosphere is equally re ned: a large screen broadcasts major international tournaments and sporting events, while the bar features a curated selection of ne wines, premium spirits and local craft beers.

Golf Escapes to the Algarve

Europe’s No. 1 Golf

Destination

A true haven for golf enthusiasts, the Algarve offers everything you’d want from a golf holiday. From world-class courses like Monte Rei to the iconic Quinta do Lago courses, there’s something for every golfer. Accommodation options are just as enticing. From budget-friendly packages at Pestana Hotels & Golf Resorts or Boavista Golf & Spa Resort to luxury 5-star experiences at Ria Park Hotel & Spa or Monte Rei Golf & Country Club. If restaurants and bars are what you’re looking for, The Magnolia Hotel in Quinta do Lago places you right in the centre of the action.

With a sunny climate almost all year round, convenient travel from the UK, and packages tailored to every skill level, the Algarve stands out as the ideal destination for a memorable golf escape.

Quinta do Lago - Laranjal

Millennium

Ombria Vale do Lobo - Ocean

World Class Golf Meets the Northern Lights

Top 5 holidays with free golf

35%

Constance Belle Mare Plage, Mauritius

7 nights fr £2,159 pp

Price includes half board, daily golf at Legends and Links courses, golf club carriage and transfers.

10%

Aphrodite Hills Hotel, Cyprus

7 nights fr £1,649 pp

Price includes half board, 4 rounds on Aphrodite Hills with buggies, golf club carriage and transfers.

30%

The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife, Abama

7 nights fr £1,325 pp

Price includes breakfast, 3 rounds on the Abama course with buggies, golf club carriage and transfers.

15%

The Westin, Costa Navarino, Greece

7 nights fr £1,845 pp

Price includes breakfast, 5 rounds of golf with free buggies, golf club carriage and transfers.

10%

La Cala Resort, Spain 7 nights fr £995 pp

Price includes breakfast, 3 rounds of golf with buggies, golf club carriage and transfers.

Bespoke worldwide golf escapes where every detail is taken care of by our travel experts, so your only worry is perfecting your next shot.

Lofoten Links is offering travelling golfers the rare opportunity to combine a world-class golf experience with one of nature’s most extraordinary displays: the Aurora Borealis.

Located in Norway’s Lofoten Islands above the Arctic Circle, Lofoten Links is widely regarded as one of the most scenic and unique golf courses in the world. Ranked among GOLF.com’s Global Top 100 courses, it is celebrated for its dramatic coastal setting and untouched landscape. In addition to its reputation as a premier golf destination, the region draws visitors from around the globe eager to witness its natural wonders, from tee times under the midnight sun to the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.

The golf season runs from May to October, offering the experience of 24-hour play under the midnight sun between mid-May and late July. The appeal of Lofoten Links extends well beyond summer as the Aurora Borealis illuminates the skies throughout the shoulder and offseason months. This rare combination of peak golf conditions in summer and Northern Lights viewing in winter makes Lofoten Links a destination to be enjoyed throughout the year.

For those visiting in the shoulder season, from mid-August to mid-October, the experience blends both worlds: a round of golf during the day and the chance to watch the Northern Lights as evenings grow longer and cozier.

“It is a rare opportunity to play world-class golf by day and experience one of nature’s greatest wonders by night,” said Frode Hov, General Manager at Lofoten Links. “The midnight sun in the summer followed by the Northern Lights in the winter has positioned our property as a year-round bucket-list opportunity. Witnessing guests experience these phenomena for the first time never gets old because we know it’s a moment they will never forget.”

The optimal period to view the Northern Lights is between October and mid-April, when long nights and dark skies create ideal conditions. Off-season visits focus on immersive experiences that highlight the raw beauty of the region, from wellness retreats and stargazing to coastal walks, photography tours, and Northern Lights riding tours at nearby Hov Gård.

With on-site Nordic-style lodging designed to face north and located far from city lights, visitors are guaranteed unobstructed, pollution-free skies - often allowing them to enjoy the Aurora Borealis without even stepping outside.

To book a stay and play package at Lofoten Links, visit: www.lofotenlinks.no/en/

PORTMARNOCK RESORT TEAMS UP WITH IRELAND’S BEST

Portmarnock Resort, home of the acclaimed and recently redeveloped Jameson Golf Links, has partnered with a selection of the best golf courses and attractions in Ireland to offer the ultimate oneof-a-kind experience for travelling golfers.

The ‘Ultimate Irish Jameson Golf Links Experience’ combines golf at world number one-ranked course Royal County Down and additional rounds at a selection of the region’s best golf courses – Jameson Golf Links, Portmarnock Golf Club, The Island Golf Club, County Louth Golf Club and The Royal Dublin Golf Club – with a six-night stay at Portmarnock Resort.

In addition to fantastic links golf, an array of non-golf attractions including a tour of Trinity College, a visit to the famous Jameson Distillery and a guided whiskey tasting experience at the resort’s Sibin Pub are included.

Immersed in the natural beauty of the rugged Irish coastline and just 30 minutes from the city centre, the hotel has seen extensive renovations made in recent years, bringing Dublin’s only coastal resort to a new level of luxury for golf-loving visitors to Ireland’s famous capital city.

Transfers to and from the airport and golf courses are also included as part of the experience, ensuring that visiting golfers do not have to worry about anything following arrival.

Paul McCanny, director of golf at Portmarnock Resort and Jameson Golf Links, said: “Portmarnock Resort is ideally located for exploring this scintillating golfing coastline while also experiencing Dublin.

“Our unique experience allows you to use Portmarnock Resort as a hub for the ultimate Irish links golf break, enjoying a round on not only Jameson Golf Links, but also on a selection of other outstanding golf courses, including the world’s very best, all just a short drive away.

“With the added experiences both on site and in Dublin – including a visit to the Jameson Distillery – we feel this really is a must for all golfers seeking the ultimate Dublin trip.”

Jameson Golf Links, originally laid out in 1995 by two-time Masters champion Bernhard Langer, was the recent recipient of a multi-million-pound project to further elevate the course.

The new-look layout has seen numerous tee boxes and greens lifted to create even more dramatic ocean views, creating one of Ireland’s most picturesque golfing experiences with panoramic vistas of north Dublin’s Velvet Strand and the famous island known locally as Ireland’s Eye.

For more information visit www.portmarnock.com/golf/golf-special-offers/

When did you rst pick up a golf club

Shortly after I retired from boxing in 1981, I got invited to play in a Variety Club golf event by Jimmy Tarbuck, but I told him that I didn’t play. Sir Henry Cooper was big into golf, and he persuaded me that it would be a good game to keep me active.

Back in those days I thought that golf was a bit boring, but I’m so glad I got into it as golf has given me so much back in terms of the friends I’ve made and the places I’ve played over the last 40-odd years.

What’s your favourite golf resort

I’ve played at quite of few of the big golf resorts in Spain and Portugal over the years, including Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and San Lorenzo. I couldn’t pick a favourite, but they’re all great destinations for anyone who likes playing golf on great courses in the sunshine.

Who would be your ideal holiday golf partner

My son James. He’s a professional golfer and holds the course record at Moor Park Golf Club in Hertfordshire, where we’re both members.

John Conteh

The former light-heavyweight World, European, British and Olympic boxing champion can be founding ghting his battles on the golf courses these days as a stalwart of the Variety Club’s Celebrity-Am circuit.

Where did you go for your most recent holiday

I’m on one long holiday! To be honest, my wife and I don’t go on overseas holidays as she doesn’t like ying, so we have breaks around the UK, and then I get to travel abroad on golf trips for charity events.

Best memory in golf

I’ve so many, but raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity gives me the biggest sense of pride, we used to run the John Conteh Classic Golf Series all around the country playing at clubs like Woburn, Celtic Manor, Moor Park, The Buckinghamshire and the nal would be in Orlando, Florida playing Shingle Creek and Celebration.

What’s your earliest holiday memory

Holidays were not on our radar when we were growing up in Kirkby in the 1960s. There wasn’t much money to go round, and what money we did have went on food and clothes. The best I could hope for was a day trip to the beach at Southport.

I’M ON ONE LONG HOLIDAY! ...WE HAVE BREAKS AROUND THE UK, AND THEN I GET TO TRAVEL ABROAD ON GOLF TRIPS FOR CHARITY EVENTS.

What’s your favourite golf course in the UK It must be Moor Park. There are loads of great golf courses around London, but Moor Park ticks all the boxes for me. It’s got two great courses, the High and West, and I just love the whole vibe around the place. It’s very smart, but it’s also very relaxed. My son and I are both members there and we just love it.

What’s the best hotel you’ve ever stayed in I stayed in a few amazing hotels in Las Vegas during my boxing career but couldn’t pick one out as favourite. When I fought in London I used to stay at the Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane, which is top notch.

What’s your favourite city in the world I was born and raised in Liverpool and, of course, that is the place that is closest to my heart, but if I had to pick another city it would have to be London. It’s got everything. I rst went down when I was 17 in 1968 to compete in the ABA British Juniors. London has played a big part in my career, and to my mind it’s the greatest capital city in the world.

Most memorable meal

I used to own a restaurant in Mayfair in the 80’s called JC’s I used to love eating in there, but the restaurant trade is very di cult and we had to close it down also ate at San Siro Café in Parliament Hill and San Martino in Knightsbridge, I love eating at many of the great restaurants at golf clubs now, Centurion, Woburn and Wentworth spring to mind, but on the whole, all of them serve great food.

My top travel tip

Pack before the day you travel, I’m a very organised person and I always get my golf bag ready before a golf day and make sure my battery is charged for my trolley. If going abroad, don’t forget your passport and toothbrush.

■ JOHN CONTEH IN ACTION

■ HENRY COOPER

■ MOOR PARK

■ GROSVENOR HOUSE HOTEL