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WELCOME What a Ride: World Records, Tour Diaries and a Walker Cup on the Horizon

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It’s great news that Prince’s Golf Club has been awarded the 2030 Walker Cup! It’s a massive moment for the club and a well-deserved nod to the McGuirk family and the whole team, who’ve poured two decades worth of effort into raising the club’s profile and facilities. It’ll be a fantastic venue for such a prestigious event.

Talking of great venues, I was at Bearwood Lakes recently for the launch of the new Mizuno Tour Truck, where Marco Penge was on hand to officially open it as a Mizuno player. It only feels like yesterday he was ripping it up as a junior on the Sussex amateur circuit and now he’s a DP World Tour winner. He’s grown tremendously both on and off the course, and with his talent and mindset, the sky’s the limit.

Silvermere continues to impress as well. Their new highend fashion store is a smart move, it brings in brands you just don’t see in typical pro shops, and it shows how golf retail is evolving to match modern tastes. Golfers want performance, sure, but style too and Silvermere’s nailed that balance.

It was fantastic to have a proper catch-up with Gary Evans, who’s now plying his trade on the Legends Tour.

With The Open just around the corner, it’s hard not to be reminded of his unforgettable

in, week out, that keeps us all connected to the rhythm and reality of life on tour.

Sometimes in golf, it’s not just about the scorecard it’s about the sheer willpower, heart, and determination behind the story.

One such story comes from Isaac Rowlands, a 25-year-old Assistant Pro at The ■ MARCO PENGE Grove, whose incredible achievement is featured in this issue.

What he managed to pull off in one of the most remote and awe-inspiring golf settings on the planet is nothing short of astonishing.

It was a test of physical endurance, mental strength, and emotional resilience and all in aid of a deeply personal cause.

The journey, the location, the motivation behind it, and the staggering effort involved make it one of the most remarkable golfing feats you’ll read this year. Head to page 27 to read the full story, you won’t believe what he went he was, in fact, the first Tour through to get there. professional to ever give us a Tour And finally, a big thank you to Diary way back in 1995.

Guy Kinnings, the CEO of the DP That feels like a lifetime ago, World Tour, for taking time out and yet it’s amazing how relevant of his crazy schedule to speak and insightful his reflections still with us. These are busy times are today. in the upper echelons of the It’s a tradition we’re proud to game, and it’s always refreshing continue, and in this issue, you when leaders in the sport stay can read the latest instalment of accessible and open. our current Tour Pro Diary from Dan Bradbury another rising Enjoy the read. star with plenty of stories to tell.

Matt Nicholson There’s something about hearing Publisher it directly from the players, week charge at Muirfield all those years ago, one of the great near misses in Open history and a performance that left a lasting impression on so many golf fans.

Gary’s always been incredibly generous with his time, and we’ve had a special connection with him from the very beginning,

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EQUIPMENT EDITOR Dan Owen dan@golfnews.co.uk SENIOR TRAVEL EDITOR Greg Evans greg@golfnews.co.uk

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Kris Kim Earns Wentwo h Scholarship Young English amateur star Kris Kim, who last year become the fifth youngest-ever player to make the cut in a PGA Tour event, has been revealed as the first recipient of a new elite scholarship from the Wentworth Foundation.

The teenager’s thrilling performance in last May’s THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson wowed golf audiences around the world, not least when he very nearly made a hole-in-one during his third round.

But his maturity and promise had been evident in the amateur game before then.

In a superb 2023 campaign he claimed victories in the prestigious Fairhaven Trophy and the R&A’s Boys Amateur Championship, he broke a course record when winning the bronze medal with England in the European Boys Team Championship, and he won three and a half points from four matches in a resounding European Junior Ryder Cup triumph.

Under the terms of the Wentworth Foundation’s new elite scholarship, Kim will have access to the three celebrated courses at Wentworth, in addition to all of the practice facilities including the newly opened state-of-the-art Wentworth Golf Academy.

“I was so happy when I found out about the scholarship,” said Kim “The idea of practising and playing at Wentworth every day is so cool and it will be really good for my game. I attended the BMW PGA Championship there and spent most of my time following Rory McIlroy around the course or closely watching the golfers on the range.

“To think that Rory is now a Masters champion and that I will be practising where he and the rest of the field did is just amazing.

“I want to take my game to the next level and Wentworth is the place for me to achieve that. I’m very excited and very grateful to everyone at the club for making it happen.”

The Wentworth Foundation was created in 1991 by the club’s former head professional, and now honorary member, Bernard Gallacher to help aspiring young golfers and tennis players in the area.

Prince’s To Host The Walker Cup In 2030 Prince’s will stage the 53rd Walker Cup between Great Britain and Ireland and the United States of America in 2030.

The renowned venue on the glorious Kent coastline will host the biennial team contest for the first time.

Prince’s staged The Open in 1932 – famously won by Gene Sarazen – and hosted Final Qualifying for The Open from 2018 to 2022.

The famed links in Sandwich also has an illustrious history of staging leading amateur events, including The Women’s Amateur Championship most recently in 2023.

Prince’s has undergone a significant redevelopment programme since 2017, including upgrades to the clubhouse and to enhance the 27 holes on offer.

Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, Executive Director – Championships at The R&A, said, “The Walker Cup provides the opportunity for elite amateur golfers to perform on a world-class stage and Prince’s will certainly continue that rich tradition in 2030.

“It is a venue which boasts an impressive pedigree, from the facilities off the course to the challenge on the wonderful links,

and it promises to be a fantastic occasion when the match is played there.”

Rob McGuirk, General Manager at Prince’s, said, “It’s an absolute privilege to be invited to host the Walker Cup in 2030.

“To be among the esteemed hosts of what is perhaps the most revered men’s amateur competition in the game is a source of immense pride for everyone associated with Prince’s Golf Club.

“We have worked closely with The R&A on a number of championships in the past and we look forward to continuing that relationship in the years ahead to ensure a great match is held.”

The dates of the Walker Cup at Prince’s in 2030 will be confirmed at a later date. Cypress Point Club in California will host this year’s contest in September, while the 2026 match will be played at Lahinch in Ireland and the 2028 match at Bandon Dunes in Oregon.

For more information on the Walker Cup, visit www.walkercup.org

■ NEARLY A CENTURY AFTER HOSTING THE OPEN, PRINCE’S WILL WELCOME THE BEST AMATEURS IN THE GAME AT THE 2030 WALKER CUP

Ava Achieves World Amateur Golf Ranking Status Rising golf star Ava Gadsby, aged just 13, has officially earned a place on the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) a remarkable milestone in an already fast-developing career.

Playing out of East Herts Golf Club, her achievement follows an intense stretch of competitive play, where the young athlete completed 156 holes of elite junior tournament golf across a seven-day period including the Women’s Championship where she made it to the quarter finals.

The Winning tournament, held at the prestigious San Roque Club in Spain, brought together some of the brightest young talents in international golf.

“One of my main goals this year was to break into the WAGR, and I’m so proud to have done it. I’ve learned so much, competed at some amazing courses, and played with incredible young golfers who inspire me every day,” said Ava Gadsby. “This is just the beginning.”

The journey to WAGR status is a significant step in any amateur golfer’s career, especially at such a young age.

It reflects consistent performance in highly competitive fields and is seen as a gateway to international recognition, elite junior invites, and long-term pathways into professional golf.

Ava’s journey in golf began at the age of eight, and she has since demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication.

In 2023, she clinched 11 Junior Open titles, including the under-16 Hertfordshire Golf Championship.

Her momentum continued into 2024 with a remarkable six-match win streak on the US Kids London Tour, culminating in the US Kids London Winter League Championship.

Notably, she achieved a standout round of 69 at The Grove Junior Open Championship, competing against under-18 boys and girls.

Last year, she won at next year’s open course, the prestigious Royal Birkdale Under 18 mixed under 18 open Championship, a remarkable performance for then 12 year old Ava Gadsby.

Ava Gadsby’s achievement has been made possible through support from key junior golf organisations including Snowgolf, British Junior Golf Tour, US Kids Golf, Justin Rose Junior Series, Robert Rock Junior Tour, IMG Academy, The R&A, England Golf, and The Irish Junior Golf Tour, among others.

“There’s something special happening in golf right now,” said Ava. “It feels like the sport is growing fast, and I’m proud to be part of this generation helping to shape its future.”

Special thanks were given to the team at Snowy Golf, who supported Gadsby’s tournament entry and travel, as well as to family and coaches whose belief and sacrifice helped make the moment possible.

With WAGR status now achieved, the focus turns to continuing development, playing more elite tournaments, and pushing for the top of the junior golf rankings worldwide.

[6] SUMMER 2025 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ THRILLING FINISH: GAGLIARDI BECAME ITALY’S INAUGURAL BRABAZON CHAMPION

Gagliardi makes history at Hankley Common

Biagio Andrea Gagliardi was crowned the first ever Italian winner of the Brabazon Trophy after a thrilling final day at Hankley Common Golf Club.

The 18-year-old fired a round of -1 to finish -8 overall, two clear of his nearest competitor, Freddie Turnell (Burnham & Berrow), who won the George Henriques Salver in the process for being the leading under-20 player from GB&I. Gagliardi looked in command after a brilliant three-under

front nine on the final day, but a double bogey on the 10th and a birdie for playing partner Mattias Varjun (Estonia) saw a three-shot lead wiped out.

However, consecutive bogeys for Varjun saw him slip back as his Italian playing partner made birdie on 13 to regain a three-shot lead, and despite a blip on 14, the Olgiata golfer drove the par-4 15th with his 3-wood for birdie before seeing out victory with another birdie on 17.

Brocket Hall To Host Legends Tour Event Taking place between 22nd – 24th August, the English Legends hosted by Roger Chapman will see professional golf return to the prestigious Brocket Hall Estate in Hertfordshire.

With Ryder Cup captains and players, Major champions and Tour winners teeing it up as part of a packed summer of British and Irish events on the Legends Tour.

Taking place two weeks after the flagship Staysure PGA Seniors Championship, the tournament will be hosted by two-time senior Major-winner, Roger Chapman, who will be playing the final event of a stellar career that has spanned almost 50 years.

He will be joined by a number of the biggest names in seniors golf, with the likes of Ian Woosnam, Michael Campbell and Paul Lawrie scheduled to play in August.

Set in a 500-acre country estate, Brocket Hall is one of the country’s best golf facilities with two spectacular courses, a world-class practice and short-game facility, luxurious manor-house accommodation that has housed Prime Ministers and Royalty and a superb AA-rosette restaurant.

And at the English Legends, golf fans can do more than just spectate – with two unique opportunities to get inside the ropes and be part of the action.

Whether it’s the Championship Pro-Am or the immersive multi-day VIP Legends Experience, these unforgettable experiences enable golfers to tee it up alongside iconic professional golfers in a true tournament setting.

The Legends Experience is a truly unique offering for amateur golfers, with guests experiencing the life of a Tour player over three nights and four unforgettable days at Brocket Hall.

Tickets for the event are now on sale, with an early booking promotion available.

Adult tickets are £10 with under-16s receiving free entry. All ticket purchases also include a £7.50 food and drink voucher.

For further details visit: www.legendstour.com/ticket/english-legends-2025

■ ROGER CHAPMAN’S FAREWELL AND A STELLAR FIELD AWAIT AT BROCKET HALL’S ENGLISH LEGENDS

He said: “I’m ecstatic, it’s history right here. I couldn’t ask for a better tournament to win. I settled in pretty quickly to the final round and it was a good front, but then on 10 I had probably my first missed drive of the week and made a double-bogey. It could’ve been very easy from there to lose it but I recovered very quickly, played some good golf and remained calm, patient and got the win.

“It was great walking down the 18th with all the spectators, probably the best moment of my life. All the people who came out to watch – I can’t be more thankful and grateful for this opportunity. I can’t wait to go back home now and celebrate the win with my family and friends!”

Burnham & Berrow’s Turnell fought throughout and backto-back birdies on 13 and 14 fired him back into contention, as he came in as clubhouse leader on -6.

Two early birdies for England Men’s Squad’s Ben Bolton (Enville) saw him challenging for a while but bogeys late on ended his chances of winning, while Australian Kayun Mudadana, who shot from tied-44th to tied-4th on Saturday with his course-record showing of -8, kicked off with a birdie on the final day before a four-hole bogey run all but ended his hopes of lifting the trophy.

Varjun finished tied-3rd on -5 alongside Eliot Baker (Tiverton), with the Estonian picking up the bronze medal on countback, while another Australian in Billy Dowling shot a final round of 69 (-2) to finish -4 overall in sole 5th.

2024 English Amateur champion Harley Smith (The Rayleigh) finished 6th on -3 with Scotland’s Jack McDonald, Bolton and Mudadana tied-7th on -2, as only nine players finished the four-day event under par.

A further eight players finished on level-par in tied-10th, including England Men’s Squad member Dylan ShawRadford (Huddersfield).

TV Star Jenni Falconer Backs New Golf Push for Women with The Club Company TV and radio presenter Jenni Falconer has teamed up with The Club Company in a major new initiative aimed at getting more women onto golf courses across the UK. The campaign, called Women on Par, is a fresh ■ JENNI collaboration between The Club FALCONER Company one of the UK’s leading IN ACTION operators of country clubs and England Golf, the national governing body for amateur golf.

Designed to make the sport more accessible and inclusive, Women on Par offers women of all ages and backgrounds the chance to either try golf for the first time or boost their skills through relaxed, supportive group sessions. The initiative has proven a hit, with sold-out events hosted at all 18 of The Club Company’s locations.

Participants are welcomed with a three-hour intro session that includes time on the driving range, followed by a friendly Texas Scramble on the course. Club members are on hand to guide and encourage, and the day wraps up with a social gin and tonic in the bar—fostering new friendships and future golf partners.

Falconer, an avid golfer herself, shared her excitement about the partnership on Instagram: “So thrilled to have teamed up with The Club Company to encourage more women to have a go at golf. All ages, all abilities welcome. Just prepare to have fun!”

Her involvement doesn’t stop there. Falconer will also act as an ambassador for the Club Company’s upcoming Let’s Talk Menopause campaign, launching this October. The health-focused series will be hosted at clubs nationwide and aims to open up conversations about women’s wellbeing particularly around menopause in a supportive and active environment.

The Club Company’s CEO, Richard Calvert, said the programme reflects their wider mission to make golf a more balanced and welcoming sport: “We are seeing more and more women fall in love with the game, but membership numbers are still far from equal. We want to be part of changing that.”

Pro golfer and fellow ambassador Cara Gainer added: “Golf is one of the few sports you can enjoy well into your 80s. Women on Par is such a great initiative, and it’s incredible to see more women discovering the game at every stage of life.”

With the backing of high-profile figures like Falconer and a clear focus on inclusion and health, Women on Par is helping to reshape golf’s future—one swing at a time.

[8] SUMMER 2025 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ BERKSHIRE GLORY FOR JAKE SOWDEN

Sowden soars to win Berkshire Trophy England’s Jake Sowden lifted the Berkshire Trophy after finishing one shot clear of fellow Englishmen Oliver Toyer and Joe Buenfeld.

The Oaks golfer shot rounds of 69, 65, 71 and 75 at The Berkshire Golf Club to finish on -7, adding to his 2024 English Men’s U25 Championship victory.

He said: “It’s such a great feeling to win a national competition, especially at The Berkshire. It’s such an amazing golf course and is one of my favourite events of the year.

“To be able to hold off when my game wasn’t there today and still manage to get a win, was a great achievement for myself.

“The standout shot was in the first round on the Blue Course. On the 11th hole, I had 235 yards into a slight breeze and the pin was tucked on the top shelf. I landed it on the top to six feet and rolled it in for eagle.

“I celebrated by putting my feet up and watching the PGA championship with a pizza! I’m having a day off before I prepare for the Brabazon Trophy later this week and then hopefully I’ll be playing St Andrews Links, but I’m just focusing on trying to improve my game and development.”

England Golf launches new strategy for 2025-2030 England Golf reveal new five-year strategy, aimed at inspiring more people to play golf.

The 2025-2030 strategy will see the national governing body operate around its four key pillars which include being safe, inclusive, sustainable, and inspirational.

With over 1800 affiliated golf clubs and facilities, England Golf aims to support and empower a thriving community of golfers to get the most out of the game.

England Golf has seen golf club membership increase by 8,000 to 730,000 in 2024, while iGolf – catering for golfers without a club to obtain a Handicap Index® – now has over 61,000 subscribers.

The growth hasn’t stopped there either, with over 17,400 iGolfers having now transitioned into club membership since its inception in 2021. iPlay, a free functionality for golfers to track their progress with an average score indicator, has also seen over 10,000 people register.

And following the launch of the Respect in Golf movement, England Golf has seen all clubs and counties sign its Terms of Affiliation, demonstrating a commitment to making the game more inclusive and accessible to all.

England Golf Chief Executive Jeremy Tomlinson said:

Old Thorns Hotel & Reso sold to Dubai based firm

“I am very proud of all the work the England Golf Board, team and stakeholders have put in to create our “Let’s Inspire More Golfers” 2025-2030 strategic plan.

“As such, I am excited and energised to share with you our fully supported England Golf 20252030 strategy “Let’s Inspire More Golfers!”

“The mission, purpose and strategic goals emanate from a strong foundation and learnings earned through delivering our 2021-2025 Course Planner, most definitely setting the stage for our next chapter in promoting the sport we love... golf.

“The beating heart of our new strategy is a simple yet powerful message: “Let’s Inspire More Golfers!”.

“It is essential that golf is relevant in today’s competitive sporting landscape, as such I hope you believe as we do, that together, we can continue to build upon golf’s post-pandemic boom, promoting golf for everyone, however and wherever they wish to play.

“And if we can do that successfully, then we will have the best chance of inspiring more people who participate to call themselves golfers!

“Thank you for joining the drive to Inspire More Golfers.”

England Golf won the Sports Innovation Award at the 2024 Sports Business Awards and is once again up for two accolades at the 2025 FEVO Sport Industry Awards, with the national governing body nominated for Sport Organisation of the Year and the Wellness at Work award.

■ NEW FIVE-YEAR PLAN HAS BEEN UNVEILED BY ENGLAND GOLF TO GROW AND MODERNISE THE GAME

■ OLD THORNS HAS AN 18 HOLE COURSE DESIGNED

BY PETER ALLISS

Dubai-based real estate investment firm Select Group of the original parts of the house remain. has acquired the iconic Old Thorns Hotel & Resort in Additional features include a three-bedroom Liphook, Hampshire, marking a significant step in the guest cottage, 33-bedroom staff accommodation, a company’s expansion into the UK hospitality sector. driving range, and a parcel of land with development The purchase, completed for an undisclosed sum, adds potential for an additional nine-hole golf course, a flagship property to Select Group’s growing UK portfolio. subject to planning permission.

Old Thorns is one of the South East’s premier golf and leisure “This acquisition represents a key milestone in our destinations, set across 317 acres of rolling countryside. The strategy to expand our footprint in the UK,” said Rahail resort includes a Peter Alliss-designed 18-hole championship Aslam, Chairman of Select Group. “Old Thorns is a golf course, a four-star hotel with 153 bedrooms, 51 selfdistinctive asset in a prime location. We’re committed catering executive apartments, and a 25,000-square-foot spa to building on its strong legacy and enhancing the and leisure complex. overall guest experience as part of our long-term Back in 1982 the golf course was opened by Jack Nicklaus, vision for exceptional hospitality offerings.”

Seve Ballesteros, Isao Aoki and Bill Rogers.

Founded in Dubai, Select Group specialises in real estate The hotel was the former home of Ken Wood, founder of development and investment across multiple verticals, the Kenwood manufacturing company,Longmoor still, to this day,Hampshire, some GU30 7PE including residential, hospitality, and retail. The firm is Road, Liphook, known for identifying and revitalising high-potential ■ THE RESORT IS SET properties in sought-after IN 317 ACRES global markets.

The sale was brokered by specialist agents HMH Golf & Leisure, who marketed the resort on behalf of Old Thorns Golf Hotel & Country Estate Limited. Directors listed on Companies House for the seller are Cathal Lynch and Xiaomin Zhang.

“This is a fantastic result and another strong indicator of the resilience and appeal of the UK golf market,” said Tom Marriott, Director at HMH Golf & Leisure. “The strong EBITDA and asset base attracted seven competitive bids. This is the fourth sale we’ve completed so far this year, and the second involving a golf hotel, with six other properties currently under offer.”

Old Thorns has undergone several ownership transitions in recent decades. Hampshire businessman Martin Shaw acquired the hotel in 2007 and invested heavily in modernising the estate. In 2013, the resort was sold to the UFC Chinese investment group, which maintained its position as one of the region’s top golf and leisure venues.

The addition of Old Thorns aligns with Select Group’s strategic intent to secure landmark hospitality assets in established markets. The firm’s entry into the UK through such a high-profile property signal growing international interest in the British leisure and resort sector.

M O R E T H A N J U ST A MEMBERSHIP AT LO N D O N G O L F C L U B At London Golf Club, membership goes beyond access to our two championship courses.

With world-class practice facilities, reciprocal golf destinations worldwide, exclusive member discounts, and a vibrant calendar of social and golf events, our flexible options are designed to enhance every aspect of your golfing experience.

Members also enjoy partner benefits and the opportunity to hold an official handicap at a prestigious European Tour destination.

L O N D O N G O L F. C O . U K

E X P LO R E MEMBERSHIP

[10] SUMMER 2025 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ 18TH HOLE AT THE SHIRE LONDON

Multi-Million Pound Investment At The Home Of Golf St Andrews Links Trust will break ground this winter on a £10.5 million multi-year irrigation project that will optimise water usage and improve player experience across its golf courses.

Work to install 1,500 new sprinklers across the historic Old Course is scheduled to begin in winter 202526, more than doubling the current number of 800.

The change will offer a more targeted approach to course management at the Home of Golf allowing for more efficient use of water and will also feature ‘hidden’ pop-up sprinklers to provide better irrigation for the Old Course’s vast greens without compromising the playing surfaces.

Hundreds of sprinklers will be added across the remaining courses in a staged process over the next five years, allowing greenkeeping staff more detailed control of water and reduced run times.

Alongside this, the Links Trust has increased its collection of rainwater and use of bore holes, ensuring that water used for course irrigation across the courses is derived entirely from sustainable sources.

Work on the Old Course, which will host The 155th Open in July 2027, will begin in November 2025 and is scheduled for completion in March 2026 ahead of the main playing season.

The current irrigation system, which was installed in 2000-01, has reached the end of its lifespan. As well as more effective water usage, the new system will open new pin locations across the course with the installation of the ‘hidden’ pop-up sprinklers on some putting surfaces.

Once work is completed on the Old Course, the New and Jubilee Courses will be next in line followed by the Eden, Strathtyrum and Balgove Courses. Each phase will be planned to take place during the winter season over the coming five years to minimise impact and disruption Installation will be completed in stages to allow the course to remain open for play and to minimise disruption as much as possible.

To recognise this the Old Course will not be sold as part of St Andrews Links’ traditional three-round package this winter and instead will only be available via the ballot with a reduced green fee offered.

The Shire Launches New Combo Tee Experience To celebrate its 18th year, The Shire London has announced the launch of a brand-new “Combo” tee layout, available from 1st June 2025. The move marks a significant evolution in how golfers experience the only UK course designed by Seve Ballesteros.

Famed for its unique 6x par 3s, 6x par 4s, and 6x par 5s configuration, and iconic features such as the island green par-3 opening hole and the S-shaped 18th green.

The Shire London has long held a reputation for both quality and difficulty.

Now, with the introduction of the Combo Card, players will have the chance to enjoy

in two, while still offering a safe lay-up route in front of the signature “S” lake.

“Golf is supposed to be fun and enjoyable,” said Tony Menai-Davis, Managing Director of The Shire London.

“Over the years, we know the course’s difficulty may have put some golfers off.

Seve Ballesteros at The Shire London With the Combo Card, we’re offering a more accessible and scoreable version of The Shire London, one that still honours Seve’s genius but opens the experience up to more people.”

The launch of the Combo Card coincides with The Shire London’s 18th birthday, marking a new chapter for the muchcelebrated course.

Available to both members and visitors, the new layout reaffirms The Shire’s commitment to making championship level golf more inclusive and enjoyable for players of all skill levels.

For further information visitwww. theshirelondon.com

the layout in a more forgiving, diverse, and enjoyable way without losing the course’s core character.

The Combo Tee layout creatively blends tee positions from across the existing setup, including a mix ■ SEVE AT THE SHIRE LONDON of the Ruby tees (forward) and Emerald tees (championship tees) allowing players to tackle each hole in a new way.

One of the most exciting changes is the reimagined 18th hole: traditionally a par-4, it will now play as a risk-and-reward par5 from the Emerald tees, tempting longer hitters to go for the green

Hannah Screen Takes Rose Ladies Series Title

DAVID CANNON/GETTY IMAGES

Kate Rose, who was at The Buckinghamshire on Friday and The Buckinghamshire welcomed generations of talent – presented Hannah Screen with the winner’s cheque, said: “It past, present and emerging for the 2025 Rose Ladies Series was a fantastic day to finish the 2025 Rose Ladies Series, and we finished in style at the historic country estate. certainly did that in style at The Buckinghamshire – a stunning The transformed course and clubhouse, which re-opened last venue with a beautiful clubhouse. Thanks to Gerry and all the year following an investment of more than £10 million, provided team there for making the day such a success.” the perfect venue for some of the UK’s top female players, The Buckinghamshire last hosted a Rose Ladies Series event in including four-time major champion Dame Laura Davies and 2021. Since then, it has been exquisitely renovated by the Arora Ladies European Tour winners Carly Booth and Meg MacLaren. family as part of their wider plan to develop a portfolio of worldThe tournament featured two of The Buckinghamshire’s own class golf venues. rising stars, teenagers Ellie Lichtenhein and Saskia Owen, who The golf course has been reconfigured and renovated, have progressed from the club’s thriving scholars and junior enhancing its natural beauty, and the finishing holes are sections to reach international level. overlooked by the Heron’s Bar and patio – perfect for enjoying Sanjay Arora, President of The Buckinghamshire and Chief post-round drinks or long, sunny lunches.

Operating Officer of the Arora Group, said: “Hosting a Rose The clubhouse now boasts luxury amenities that encapsulate Ladies Series event has been a wonderful opportunity to support the club’s vision of ‘membership reimagined’, including a stylish women’s golf, and it is fitting for the series to finish here, at the Orangery restaurant, iconic Whisky Room, spacious lounges and home of the Ladies European Tour. locker rooms and seven beautiful bedroom suites.

“It’s also been fantastic to showcase the transformation of The Just 10 miles from Heathrow and within easy reach of central Buckinghamshire on an elite stage. We are incredibly proud of the London, it has been designed to be a home from home, whether way this beautiful venue has been restored to its best, creating a members are golfing, spending time with family, lunching with contemporary, family-friendly private members’ club on friends or business contacts or spending the day working.

London’s doorstep.”

Gerry Ivers, The Buckinghamshire’s Managing Director, added: “It was a terrific day, made all the more special by Ellie and Saskia competing. We are very proud of our scholar and junior sections, and to have supported these two hugely talented players for the last seven years. Their progress has been shaped not only by our programmes and coaching but also by the encouragement and support of the wider membership.

“Both have very bright futures in the game and their achievements are very inspiring for everyone connected with the club.”

The Rose Ladies Series started in 2020 when Justin Rose and his wife Kate wanted to give playing opportunities to female professionals during the pandemic.

The concept has gathered momentum every year since ■ THE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE PRESIDENT, SANJAY ARORA, AND then, and this year comprised five one-day events at top UK ROSE LADIES SERIES FOUNDER KATE clubs, each with a first prize of £10,000 – the largest of any ROSE PRESENT HANNAH SCREEN men’s or women’s one-day event in the country.

WITH THE WINNER’S CHEQUE

THE INTERVIEW | SUMMER 2025 [11]

PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

THE INTERVIEW

GUY KINNINGS At the helm of European golf, Guy Kinnings charts a global course n the ever-evolving world of professional golf, few figures have played a more influential role behind the scenes than Guy Kinnings. Now CEO of the European Tour Group, Kinnings has carved a unique path from his early days in law to the forefront of the international game.

With decades of experience as an agent to some of the game’s biggest stars and now as one of its key decision-makers, he brings deep insight, a global perspective, and a passion for the sport that’s as personal as it is professional.

In this exclusive interview, Guy Kinnings reflects on the journey that brought him to the top of professional golf, sharing with Matt Nicholson his insights on the sport’s future and the defining moments that have shaped both his own path and the modern game.

I

How did your journey in golf begin? Was it as a player, a fan, or through another path?

I always followed golf growing up and enjoyed playing although I was late to the game having started at Law School. My journey really began when I moved from my first job in a legal firm in

London to the legal department of IMG. At that time IMG managed an extraordinary generation of talent – Nick Faldo, Bernhard Langer, Ian Woosnam, Sandy Lyle, Greg Norman and Nick Price to name but a few and having done legal work for them, it was Ian Todd, Senior VP of EMEA then suggested I move into a management role.

As well as working with these players, I began a long association with Colin Montgomerie shortly after that before signing clients like Justin Rose, Luke Donald and Adam Scott.

What drew you to the business side of sports, particularly golf?

I’m a firm believer in the importance of relationships. That has been the basis of my career and it’s the essence of what the business side of sport is about. Whether it is between a player and their sponsors, which was my focus as an agent, or between the Tour and our partners or players, relationships are such a fundamental part of what we do. Golf is uniquely placed in that sense. The Pro-Am alone is such an incredible opportunity that provides an experience for partners unlike any other sport.

Can you tell us about your time at IMG and how that shaped your approach to golf administration?

I learned the importance of respecting clients – player, sponsor, broadcaster, Tours and Federations – and I learned to listen and to understand that you have to put the client first. I learned the importance of hard work and finding creative solutions and learning almost every aspect of the golf business over nearly three decades prepared me for my roles at the European Tour group and to be the CEO. The Tour is ultimately a members’ run organisation, so the players are the shareholders that I answer to.

Athletes are a unique breed who I have a huge amount of admiration for, and I’d like to think that working closely with them during my time at IMG enabled me to learn what makes them tick.

Were there any mentors or pivotal moments early in your career that influenced your trajectory?

I learned the ropes from the legendary Mark McCormack at IMG, who managed the likes of Arnold Palmer and Gary Player and basically invented the role of a modern sports agent. F

[12] SUMMER 2025 | THE INTERVIEW GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

THE SPORT IS ALWAYS EVOLVING AND THESE ARE EXCITING TIMES

■ GUY KINNINGS AND RORY MCILROY SHARE A MOMENT DURING A TOURNAMENT, HIGHLIGHTING THEIR STRONG PARTNERSHIP IN THE WORLD OF GOLF

I could not have asked for a better mentor. Mark essentially created the sports marketing business.

He was a genius and I was very lucky to work for him. I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor.

I always say I am fortunate to work in the most wonderful sport, and I certainly owe a lot to Mark from the experiences I gained early in my career.

There have also been some wonderful advisers that I have benefitted from since I have joined the European Tour group.

What motivated your move from IMG to the European Tour in 2018?

Experiencing the Ryder Cup as the representatives of various players, Captains and Vice Captains made it all the easier to make my decision. I absolutely loved my time at IMG and I had been asked to consider other things, but I never really thought about leaving. But when the opportunity came along to work on the Ryder Cup though, I really couldn’t say no. That’s because there is something very special about the Ryder Cup. Alongside that, I also had the opportunity to work on the Tour side as Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Commercial Officer. It was a great opportunity and I’m delighted I took it.

How would you describe the evolution of your role from Chief Commercial Officer, Deputy CEO and Ryder Cup Director to CEO? I was delighted to be given the opportunity to be CEO. I already knew everyone at the Tour because as well as doing the Ryder Cup, I also took on the commercial side, which is now significantly stronger. I was Deputy CEO as well, so I was closely involved in everything we were doing. I handled a lot of the discussions, so when Keith Pelley announced he was returning to Toronto, it was a relatively easy transition. I knew the business, I certainly knew the sport, and I didn’t have to spend my time getting to know people. It allowed me to focus on the key issues from the outset and also build on the momentum we had.

What does a typical day look like in your current role?

One of the great things about working in sport, is there isn’t really a ‘typical’ day as such.

I try to get to as many of our tournaments as possible to spend time with our players and our partners. I also spend a lot of time speaking to and working with other organisations in the game such as the PGA TOUR, the PGA of America, the R&A and the Major Championships.

I’m very fortunate that we have a great team at the Tour who keep me informed and updated on all aspects of our business, and I work with them to ensure we are continually improving in everything we do. It's an unbelievable privilege to be CEO of the European Tour Group and we work hard every single day to do the best we can for our members.

What have been your proudest achievements since joining the Tour?

It’s hard to choose. I’m very proud of the significant commercial success we’ve had over the last six years after investing in building strong commercial structures in the business.

That enabled us to grow all key revenue areas. I was also particularly proud of the way we handled the Covid pandemic. You can’t underestimate the extent of that challenge for a global business which visits more than 25 different countries, so to be able to navigate through that the way we did was huge testament to how we operate as an organisation and the remarkable team we have. It is not just me that thinks that. We have won ten awards in the past 18 months across social media, sponsorship activation, event staging, tech and sustainability – a true example of the industry recognising our innovation. But if I was to pick one, it would probably be the 2023 Ryder Cup in

■ ON THE 1ST TEE AT THE 2018 RYDER CUP, TAKING IN THE ELECTRIC ATMOSPHERE AT LE GOLF NATIONAL IN PARIS

Rome. It was just such a special week. To stage the most successful Ryder Cup ever to be held in Europe, in such an iconic city, was incredible.

Then on top of that, the way Team Europe performed under the meticulous Captaincy of Luke Donald, just made it such a proud achievement for all of us who were fortunate enough to be involved.

The DP World Tour has undergone major transformations recently. What’s been the biggest challenge in managing that change?

As a global sporting organisation, you are always undergoing some kind of transformation.

Nothing stands still and you have to keep adapting and innovating. We are a members’ organisation, so the biggest challenge in managing change is always trying to balance the needs and interests of the entire range of 300 or more players, each of whom are at different ages and stages in their careers.

How do you balance the demands of global expansion with maintaining the Tour’s European identity?

It’s an interesting question because the European Tour will always be our heritage and we will always remember and celebrate that, as we have done for the past 53 years through a number of initiatives including our National Opens. But at the same time, as I talked about in the previous answer, you have to keep adapting and innovating and over the last few decades, golf and our Tour in particular, have become more global. We changed the name of our main tour at the start of the 2022 season to become the DP World Tour. It was great fit for us, not just because DP World have been such a terrific long-term partner, but also because it enabled us to have ‘world’ in our name.

“European Tour” was increasingly a misnomer, as while Europe remains a strong territory for us, particular in our summer, we now play more than half our tournaments outside the continent. We are golf’s global tour – we play in global destinations, showcase global talent and connect our global community, so having ‘World’ in our name is much more reflective of who we are.

What were the key factors behind the success of the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome?

One of the key factors was the Ryder Cup’s enduring appeal as one of global sports’ leading events. People want to be part of it - players, fans, partners, broadcasters. It has this unique appeal which transcends our sport. Non-golf fans tune in for the Ryder Cup because of the passion and the drama it always provides. Of course, there were numerous other factors which contributed to it being the most successful Ryder Cup we’ve staged in Europe – the hard work of our staff in delivering operational excellence and the appeal of Rome as the host city to name just two. But it is impossible to talk about the success of Rome 2023 without referencing the huge role that Luke Donald played. Everything he did as Captain was faultless. He was meticulous, measured, decisive and inspirational not just to his 12 players, but to his backroom team and to all our staff at the European Tour Group. It was no surprise that everyone associated with him and the event wanted him to be the Captain again for this year.

With the emergence of LIV Golf and shifting dynamics, how do you see professional golf reconciling its divisions?

Clearly a lot has happened over the last few years. We’ve been consistent in saying the game has been too fractured. It has been complicated trying to resolve that. We continue to focus on acting in the best interests of our members and we will see how things evolve.

How is the Tour working to support the next generation of players across Europe and beyond?

Golf recycles and regenerates very quickly. New talent emerges all the time. The pathways we have established over the last five years or so with our partner Tours in South Africa, Australia, China, India, Japan and Korea, enable leading international talent to have direct access to compete on the DP World Tour. The Global

THE INTERVIEW | SUMMER 2025 [13] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

a cargo plane from 30,000ft. It achieved 295 million organic video views and eight million engagements, which is hugely impressive.

Are there moments where you’ve had to make tough calls that shaped the Tour’s direction?

Yes, there have been, but I try to listen to the right people in those moments. To players and to my team. I’m a big believer in building the best team you can have and empowering them.

In any business, there are going to be tough calls to make, but you have to assess all the information you have, listen to those around you and do what is best for your organisation, which is our case means our members.

■ GUY KINNINGS WITH FORMER CLIENT AND RYDER CUP CAPTAIN LUKE DONALD

Amateur Pathway (GAP) has also been a strong addition, helping us to identify some of the best amateurs and provide them with a pathway to compete on either the DP World Tour or the HotelPlanner Tour. We also have our own pathway to the PGA TOUR through our Strategic Alliance, enabling players to become dual members and maximise their earning opportunities.

What do you believe golf must do to stay relevant for younger audiences?

Innovation is such a big part of that. If you look at the last decade, we’ve always tried to ensure we appeal to difference audiences. We were the first tour for example to introduce in-round interviews and concerts at tournaments to broaden the appeal, in addition to trying new formats such as GolfSixes, the Shot Clock Masters and mixed events such as the Volvo Scandinavian Mixed. Our award-winning content is also such an important way of reaching younger demographics. We’ve become renowned for our creative content and part of the ten awards I mentioned earlier was one at the Sports Industry Awards for our collaboration with YouTuber Brandon B. Our team worked with Brandon on a video using special effects that showed Tommy Fleetwood making a hole-in-one from ■ GUY KINNINGS AND JON RAHM SHARE A SMILE AS THEY WALK SIDE BY SIDE AT ST ANDREWS DURING THE 2024 DUNHILL LINKS CHAMPIONSHIP

■ MARK MCCORMACK, IMG FOUNDER AND KEY INFLUENCE ON GUY KINNINGS' CAREER

What do you love most about working in golf?

I’ve always said, golf is the most wonderful sport and it has given me so many incredible opportunities that I feel fortunate to have spent my career working in the game. As a sport, golf produces so many remarkable stories.

Even just this year, you think of Rory winning the Career Grand Slam, and what an extraordinary moment that was at Augusta, to see all that emotion.

We’ve also had so many other examples of players winning on our Tour after overcoming adversity.

Each player has his own unique story.

The sport is also always evolving and these are exciting times. We have had icons in the past such as Arnie and Tiger and Rory is now the new icon, leading the next era.

When you look back in a decade, what do you hope your legacy at the European Tour and Ryder Cup will be?

I think golf has a great opportunity at the moment with participation up and so many strong commercial partners. Legacy is always for other people to talk about, but I just want to ensure we continue to take advantage of the opportunities in front of us and strengthen our Tour and the game for long-term prosperity. I would like to see golf continue to globalise and foster more union, and of course it would be nice to win a few more Ryder Cups in that time too!

GOLF NEWS FINAL THOUGHT

As golf continues to navigate global expansion, generational change, and increasing competition, Guy Kinnings stands at the forefront, grounded in tradition yet focused firmly on innovation. His deep respect for the players, the fans, and the institutions that make the game what it is today comes through in every answer. From strengthening commercial foundations to shaping unforgettable Ryder Cup moments, Kinnings is helping steer the sport into a bold new era. And if his legacy is measured by the opportunities he helps create for players and fans alike, then the future of the DP World Tour and golf more broadly is in capable hands.

■ KINNINGS WITH COLIN MONTGOMERIE, WITH WHOM HE SHARED MANY MEMORABLE SUCCESSES

[14] SUMMER 2025 | FEATURE GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

A GOLFER’S DREAM HOME HITS THE MARKET IN KENT For any golfer with big ambitions or a love of luxury, a truly unique opportunity has emerged in the picturesque village of Smarden, Kent. Appletrees – a stunning fivebedroom Victorian home set in two acres of landscaped gardens – is now for sale, complete with one of the most impressive private golf academies in the UK uilt in 1890 and restored by each of its five owners, Appletrees blends historic charm with state-of-the-art amenities. But what truly sets this property apart is the world-class golf facility developed by renowned Kent PGA coach Paul Foston, whose pupils have won 11 times on Tour and made Ryder Cup history. Over the past two decades, this has been Foston’s personal base for delivering over 1,000 lessons per year.

The Academy, hailed as “world class” by the PGA’s Kyle Phillpots, features a sophisticated short game area with an 1,800 sq ft Huxley chipping green, 900 sq ft championship-standard putting green, splash bunker, and a 6-foot-deep St Andrews-style revetted bunker. A restored 18th-century Normandy barn houses high-tech coaching equipment, making it a serious training centre for elite players and an unmatched setting for golf coaching professionals.

But the possibilities stretch far beyond the fairway. With its multiple barns and flexible layout, Appletrees offers the potential for multi-generational living, boutique business use, or a dream work-

B

from-home setup with panoramic garden views. The original barn, now used as a home office, could easily accommodate a studio or separate living quarters.

Located just minutes from major transport hubs including Ashford International and Headcorn station, Appletrees is ideal for commuters and international travellers alike. The village of Smarden offers traditional English charm with local pubs, a butcher, post office, and even the famous Big Cat Sanctuary.

The home itself is refined living, complete with en-suite bedrooms, premium kitchen appliances, and botanical gardens alive with birdsong and wildlife. Whether you’re hosting a corporate golf day, coaching clients from around the world, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the Kent countryside, Appletrees offers a rare lifestyle.

As Paul and Angela Foston prepare for retirement, they leave behind a legacy property that’s more than just bricks and mortar—it’s a place of passion, performance, and personal joy. They told Golf News “Appletrees has captured the hearts of all five owners in 135 years,” they shared. “It’s been full of love, fun, success, and happiness. We’ve had a blast.”

For more information or to book a private viewing, contact Warner Gray on 01580 766044.

MATT FITZPATRICK PRO GOLFER

Skechers.co.uk

[16] SUMMER 2025 | FEATURE GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

LUDVIG ÅBERG STILL RISING He soared onto the scene and looked unstoppable.

Now, with a few tests of form behind him, golf’s “generational talent” is sharpening his game and eyeing bigger moments ahead. By Michael Weston

o, the game really isn’t that easy after all. When Ludvig Aberg burst onto the scene two sum-mers ago, he did a fine job of making it look that way. So rapid was his rise to the top, when he arrived to play in his first-ever Major Championship - the 2024 Masters - the Swede was one of the favourites. Just lately, though, he’s been battling with a few swing issues. Still a “generational talent”, but not superhuman.

It’s hardly a crisis. It was only in February that Aberg won the Genesis Invitational, where he reeled off four birdies in his final six holes to claim his second PGA Tour title. Then, at the Mas-ters, as Rory McIlroy wobbled on the back nine, he found himself with a share of the lead. Twelve months earlier, playing in his first Masters, he finished runner-up. Would he now go one better? Alas, it wasn’t to be.

His bogey, triple-bogey finish cost him over $700,000, a sum of money that will probably seem quite insignificant come the end of his career. However, those watching him closely this season may have noticed that not everything seems to be clicking quite so comfortably.

There were a few loose shots at the PGA Championship, too, where he missed the cut (his third of the season at the time of writing), as he did at The Players Championship, and the ice cool Swede has, at times, looked a little mystified.

Aberg, though, is not a club-thrower. He remains as cool as ever. Speaking a few days after his disappointing finish at Augusta, he said he just tends to get “really grumpy and quiet” after a bad day at the office, and although there have been a few too many of these for his liking lately, he’s working things out.

S

PHOTO: MERCEDES BENZ

FEATURE | SUMMER 2025 [17] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ CELEBRATING EUROPE’S RYDER CUP VICTORY IN ROME, ALONGSIDE HIS JUBILANT TEAMMATES

It’s at times like this, we’re often told, when not everything is falling neatly into place, that players learn more about themselves. Golf fans get to learn a little more about the player, too.

Rather than hearing about how wonderful it is to be riding the crest of a wave (“living the dream” and all that, as he no doubt is), he’s shared some interesting details about his swing. It turns out profes-sionals deal with the same kind of problems recreational golfers do, occasionally at least.

In Aberg’s case, it’s an open clubface position, which he’s been trying to fix by rehearsing his swing in front of a mirror. “I think what causes it is more probably just a tendency,” he says.

“Everyone has got their own tendencies that they work with, and everyone is slipping into differ-ent patterns of the movement of their bodies, and that’s just the way that my body always sort of goes to. It’s probably something I’m going to have to work on for the rest of my career.”

There’s certainly no sense of panic when he says this. In one of his most recent starts, at the Memorial Tournament, he closed with the third best round of the week, a 66, evidence perhaps that he’s beginning to work that fault out, although the fact he took 11 shots more in the third round suggests it’s still something of a work in progress.

There’s only one player in the game right now who has the game totally figured out - and his name is Scottie. Maybe we all got a little too giddy after the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome when, after teaming up with Viktor Hovland to hand the World No.1 and Brooks Koepka a 9&7 drubbing in the foursomes, there were a few suggestions that the Swede was ready to disrupt the order at the top of the game. This could still happen, of course, but it’s worth remembering that this is just Aberg’s second full season on the PGA Tour; he really shouldn’t be where he is right now - a world’s top-10 player (his careerhigh to date is fourth) with three victories to his name.

A quick reminder of how he did get here.

Aberg was the first player to earn direct access to the PGA Tour via PGA Tour U, the program that recognises the top seniors in the collegiate game. He finished Texas Tech in May 2023 as the World No.1 amateur and made his professional de-but on the PGA Tour at the RBC Canadian Open the following month, where he finished in a tie for 25th.

■ ÅBERG STARTED THE SEASON WELL AT THE PGA TOUR’S GENESIS INVITATIONAL HOSTED

BY TIGER WOODS

After winning the Omega European Masters in September, European Ryder Cup captain, Luke Donald, described him as a “generational talent”.

This seems to have become something of a buzz phrase in sport recently, but in Aberg’s case it’s entirely merited. The Ryder Cup didn’t faze him; few things do, apparently. The following month he fired back-to-back 61s to win the RSM Classic in emphatic fashion, his maiden PGA Tour title.

It was almost a surprise that he didn’t register a win in 2024, although he came very close. Only Scheffler - back to his very best six months after being reduced to tears in Rome - denied Aberg a place in history as the first player to win on their Masters debut since Fuzzy Zoeller in 1979. No one would have been surprised had he slipped on the Green Jacket, which says everything about how good a player he is.

“What I thought was really cool about that week was that I felt like I wasn’t hitting it very well,” says Aberg, who finished seventh at this year’s Masters. “I was sort of, not scraping it around but it was very average in my opinion the way that I was hitting the ball. Going into that event, I knew that I had things to work on in my golf swing.

“I was still able to sort of pull something out of the hat and be in contention on the Sunday, which tells me that it gave me a lot of comfort knowing that I could do that, and obviously I would have loved to have those last couple of those go a little bit different. I was also proud of the way that I was able to put myself there

■ LUDVIG HAS STRUGGLED OFF THE TEE IN RECENT TOURNAMENTS

knowing that I wasn’t swinging it very nice and I wasn’t chipping it very nice, but I was still able to find something and have a chance to win it.”

This ability to record lofty finishes despite not being on top form is the hallmark of another very good player. European fans will be hoping that Aberg can iron out his current swing issue in time for Bethpage when Donald’s troops lock horns with the Americans once again. If Europe are to win the famous trophy for the first time on American soil since the “Miracle at Medinah” in 2012, they’ll surely need Aberg to be at his very best.

The biennial contest will soon be upon us, and Aberg, who won two points from his four matches in Rome, has been thinking about it for some time. “Obviously I want to be on the team this year,” he says. “That’s something that I heard when I did it the first time in Rome. If you’ve ever been on one team, you never want to miss it again, and that’s very true, and that’s how I feel about Bethpage this year.”

There’s a lot to play for before then, however, and Aberg will be keen to rediscover his very best form. The tie for 16th at the Memorial Tournament at the start of June was his best result since the Masters. The winner, of course, was that man Scheffler. Again. After that victory, tournament host Jack Nicklaus, in praising the World No.1, also delivered a frank response to the Ameri-can’s competitors.

“I think that great players are ones who rise to the occasion and ones who know how to play coming down the stretch in important events,” said the 18-time Major winner. “Looking at the leaderboard today, he didn’t have… I mean, Ben Griffin’s a nice player, Sepp Straka is a nice player, Nick Taylor is a nice player. Those were all the guys that were there basically coming down the stretch.

But he knows that those guys, you know, are not in his league. Now, if he would have had, I don’t know who else it might have been, but if he had somebody else at the top, if Xander [Schauffele] or somebody like that would have been there, he might have said, well, that might be a little tougher. I might have to do something different. He didn’t have to.”

You wonder whether Nicklaus was almost challenging everyone in the game to step up.

Aberg has already gone toe to toe with Scheffler down the stretch - and come out on top. Now that the honeymoon period is over and he’s shown the golf world what he’s capable of, the question is whether he can continue to do it over an extended period of time. It’s tough at the top but has set himself that high bar.

[18] SUMMER 2025 | COMPETITION GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

COMPETITION

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INTERVIEW | SUMMER 2025 [19] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

PHOTO: DET KEMPE

Rocco Forte Hotels are known for blending luxury with local authenticity. How do you achieve that?

We carefully consider the history and character of each destination. For example, at Verdura in Sicily, the architecture reflects the region’s Arab history. My sister, who manages the decor, ensures the local culture is incorporated subtly but meaningfully. We also encourage local involvement, particularly in our food and beverage operations, which helps create a genuinely local atmosphere. Friendly and generous staff complete the authentic experience.

SIR ROCCO FORTE O N G O L F , L E A D E R S H I P, A N D T H E LESSONS OF THE GAME From a hole-in-one at Sunningdale to building Verdura into a top golf destination, the hotelier talks to Golf News and reveals how golf has shaped his approach to business and life

here do you usually play golf when you are in the UK? I have fond memories of several courses around London, including Sunningdale, which I’ve been playing for about 50 years. You never really get bored with it. I also enjoy links courses where the Open Championship is played, such as Muirfield and Royal St George’s. In the U.S, I’ve played Pebble Beach, which is spectacular along the sea, while in Europe, Valderrama is quite a challenge with its length and small greens.

Has golf taught you any lessons that have translated into your business life?

The one thing that the game has taught me is patience. Early on, I used to get very upset when I didn’t play well, but I realised that frustration only harmed myself. Now I try to stay calm and accept bad days, focusing instead on improving tomorrow. Business is similar; sometimes progress takes time and maintaining drive and enthusiasm while being patient is key.

What is your most memorable golf experience?

One highlight was my only hole-in-one at Sunningdale on the eighth hole — the ball came back with backspin and then went in the hole which was fantastic! Another memorable moment was playing with Greg Norman at Sunningdale. I once outdrove him on the 17th hole, which was quite amusing since he was using a three-wood and had to walk back to his ball. He was very pleasant to play with in those days.

PHOTO: JAMES HOGG

Where did your passion for golf begin, and what keeps you drawn to the game?

I started playing when I was about ten or 11 because my father played. I didn’t play much in my teens but took it up again in my twenties. What keeps me going is the constant challenge — you can always get better. I’m still having lessons and trying to improve consistency. Golf demands patience and focus, which makes the game addictive.

For more information about Verdura Resort visit roccoforte hotels.com/ hotels-andresorts/ verdura-resort

How do you see the relationship between hospitality and sport, particularly golf, evolving in the future?

Activities, including sports like golf, are increasingly important to the hospitality sector.

Guests want to experience more than just their hotel stay; they want to be active and explore their surroundings.

After intense work periods, do you always turn to golf to unwind?

Golf is a keyway that I relax, as I find that it helps to take my mind off everything else because it demands concentration. I enjoy practising and can spend a lot of time hitting balls, which oddly enough I find relaxing. I also run regularly, which helps me manage stress.

■ VERDURA RESORT

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What have been some of the most challenging moments in your business career?

There are several moments that stand out. The takeover of the Granada Group was intense — a highly controlled process requiring meticulous focus for two months. The 2009 financial crisis was tough because sales dropped dramatically, and we had to negotiate with banks to keep the business afloat. More recently, the COVID-19 pandemic was a nightmare. We had to adapt to a constantly changing environment with governments opening and closing borders at short notice. It was critical to keep our staff employed and maintain morale, supported by government assistance. We managed to survive thanks to strong cash reserves and support from our banks.

Part of the Rocco Forte Hotels collection is Verdura Resort, which has hosted DP World Tour events. What role does golf play in the guest experience at Verdura?

Verdura is more than just golf; it’s a complete resort with tennis, a great spa and activities for children and teenagers, making it perfect for families. Regarding golf, we offer two 18-hole championship courses, superb practice facilities and a nine-hole course. When we built Verdura, the vision was to create the best golf resort in Europe. We’ve rebuilt and improved the courses after floods and other challenges, and our ambition remains to be the go-to golf destination in Europe. The hospitality there is top-notch, with friendly staff, excellent food and high-quality service — all essential to the guest experience.

Is Verdura Resort encouraging the involvement of families and juniors in golf?

Absolutely. We have golf professionals who spend a lot of time with young players to introduce them to the game and help them improve. While some complimentary golf programmes for juniors are being discussed, the focus remains on fostering a welcoming environment for families.

Looking ahead, what are your plans for Rocco Forte Hotels and Verdura Resort?

We plan to grow thoughtfully, focusing on quality rather than quantity. I don’t want a cookie-cutter operation but rather unique, special properties where we can provide personalised service. The luxury sector demands ever-higher standards, especially post-COVID, and we must justify pricing by delivering exceptional experiences. For Verdura, the goal is to perfect operations here before considering expansion into other golf destinations like Spain, Greece or even the U.S. Finally, if you could play a round of golf with any three people, living or historical, who would they be?

I’d love to play with Sir Henry Cotton when he was in his prime, and to see how he played in those days. I’d also like to play with Seve Ballesteros, who was a remarkable player, and Ben Hogan, whose swing remains an icon among golfers and professionals today.

[20] SUMMER 2025 | INTERVIEW GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ GARY EVANS IN ACTION ON THE LEGENDS TOUR, STILL SWINGING WITH STYLE AND PRECISION

After stepping away from the main tour, what drew you back into competitive golf via the Legends Tour?

The opportunity to experience the buzz of tournament golf again and to catch up with all my old friends and colleagues.

How does the experience of playing on the Legends Tour differ from the main circuit, both on and off the course?

The competition is still strong, the players are still super talented and it’s hard to win but being older (and some say wiser) it’s a little less stressful than back in the day!

Are there any new goals or benchmarks you’ve set yourself now that you’re competing with some of your old tour rivals again?

Honestly, I’m just thankful for the opportunity to go play again…losing some of my friends to cancer and other illnesses makes you realise how lucky you are to be healthy.

E VA N S H A S LIFE IN THE LONG GAME From amateur dominance to battling the best on tour, Gary Evans speaks to Matt Nicholson and reflects with honesty and humour on a career shaped by grit, heartbreak, and perspective and why life on the Legends Tour has never felt more rewarding

ou had an outstanding amateur career, what are your standout memories from those early days?

Probably winning the Carris Trophy (The English Boys Championship) at Moor Park because it gave me the belief that I could compete Nationally against the best.

Going on to win The Brabazon Trophy (The English Men’s Championship) and the Lytham Trophy in 1990 was big but retaining them both in 1991 was my biggest achievement in Amateur golf.

Y

What were the biggest lessons you took from amateur golf that helped you transition to the professional ranks?

To have faith in playing your own game and not be influenced by what those around you are doing.

How did representing England and GB&I shape your competitive mindset and approach to the game?

Winning in match-play was more about confidence, strategy, and execution, it’s a game of minds, not a game of golf!

What was the biggest adjustment going from elite amateur events to life on the European Tour?

The not allowing yourself to be phased by wellknown professionals that looked down upon you.

To gain their respect, you just had to play well, and I did initially (before getting injured).

You were known for your consistency, what part of your game did you rely on most during your time on tour?

■ GARY CELEBRATES EARLY SUCCESS WITH THE TWO BIGGEST SUPPORTERS OF HIS GAME — HIS PARENTS

My long game was ruined due to my wrist break and subsequent operation to solve the problem, so I guess the answer is twofold…my short game had to be great, and my mindset had to adjust accordingly.

Which tournament near-miss stands out as the defining moment of your regular tour career?

I know you want me to say the 2002 Open Championship but I’m going to say my 3rd ever event on Tour, The Turespana Masters. I finished 2nd to Vijay Singh in (shall we say) dubious circumstances in 1992.

Had I have won that event, I’m sure my career would have been very different.

Who were the toughest competitors you regularly faced on tour, and how did you approach those head-to-head battles.

The only person I battled was myself! After all, that’s the game, the one between your ears!

Your performance at the 2002 Open Championship at Muirfield is still talked about – how do you reflect on that week today?

Mmm sometimes I think how close I came to golfing immortality, but they are pointless feelings to own…I got close but ultimately, I failed when the opportunity presented itself.

You finished just one shot outside a playoff that included Ernie Els — how long did it take to come to terms with being so close to a major title?

About 10 seconds…after Appleby beat me by a shot, I turned to Dominic (my caddie) and told him to pack the bag, we’re going home!

■ A MOMENT TO REMEMBER — EVANS CELEBRATES A CAREER-BEST PERFORMANCE AT THE OPEN, MUIRFIELD 2002

Looking back, is there anything you would’ve done differently in your professional career, or are you content with your journey?

Yes, after my father passed away in 1993, I was lost for some time and found solace in places that weren’t helpful towards my career.

I wish I had taken more time to grieve and time to remember what my purpose and chosen direction in life was all about and how to maximise my talent and opportunity.

I wish I hadn’t trusted certain individuals that took advantage of my slightly naive, kind, and generous nature but I take responsibility for that, I should have known better!

I was pretty bloody good at this game, and I could have had it all but a few wrong turns and some unfortunate breaks (health wise) sent me down some avenues I’d rather have avoided.

The great thing is that I’m at peace with myself and I’m happier than I've ever been. I live alone, I live a quiet life, I have two amazing daughters, two amazing grandsons and I’m healthy. What more does a man need...Life is Beautiful.

What does the future hold for Gary Evans – on and off the course?

On the golf course, soft high draws off bear lies with a 3 iron ;-) Off the course, developing my golf consultancy business by creating mutually beneficial relationships (I think I’ll leave that right there).

STORY BEHIND THE PIC | SUMMER 2025 [21] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

STORY BEHIND THE PIC MAX FAULKNER, ROYAL PORTRUSH | OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP | JULY 6, 1951 ith the Open Championship’s return to Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland just a few weeks way it seems only fitting that the exploits of one of England’s finest post-war golfers, Max Faulkner, whose name is inextricably linked with the famous links venue, should be remembered.

A notoriously flamboyant figure, with a penchant for wearing salmon pink plus fours and dragging on a cigarette midround, Faulkner arrived at Portrush with just four previous major appearances to his name. But having finished sixth in the Open in 1949, and fifth in 1950, he was certainly one of the leading fancies, with his chance improved by his liking for the Dunluce Links, where he had twice finished runner up in the Irish Open.

The Sussex man opened with solid rounds of 71 and 70 to claim the halfway lead and was four strokes clear of the field when he reached the 16th hole during the third round. After hooking his tee shot on that hole within a few inches of the out-of-bounds fence, Faulkner was faced with either chipping the ball sideways safely back onto the fairway, and probably accept a bogey, or taking a swipe with a wood, starting the ball out of bounds, and hoping to fade it back into play.

Reaching for his three-wood, Faulkner lashed the ball over the fence and, as the

MIRRORPIX

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gallery watched spellbound, it dutifully turned right, right and right again as it crossed the fence and bounded up the fairway on to the green. It was a shot that only a character like Faulkner would have dared play, and caused his playing partner, America’s Frank Stranahan, to call

it the greatest shot he’d ever seen.

Round in 70, Faulkner started the final 18 holes with a six-stroke lead, and looked sure to win by a wide margin, but Argentina’s Antonio Cerda emerged from the pack to lay down the gauntlet and approached Portrush’s last five

holes needing one more birdie to tie.

Thankfully for Faulkner, Cerda’s challenge faded over that testing stretch, and the 34-year-old from Bexhill was able to coast home by two shots with a closing 74.

“It was all I ever wanted,” Faulkner said later. “The Open meant everything to me.

When I was handed the trophy, I looked at the names on it – Walter Hagen, Bobby Jones, Gene Sarazen, Sam Snead, Henry Cotton – and thought ‘Wow!’ In fact, it meant so much that one victory sapped my will. I remember I had a putt at the second hole of the first round at Lytham the following year, from about four feet, which I managed to miss, and my immediate thought was: ‘That’s it, I’ll never win the Open again’.”

He never did, although he managed 16 other professional victories, including three Spanish Opens, and won the Portuguese Open at the age of 52 – a pre-European Tour record that still stands today. He also represented Great Britain & Ireland in five Ryder Cups, including the famous 1957 victory at Lindrick.

A popular figure on the charity golf circuit during and after his professional career, Faulkner possessed a wicked sense of humour. When presented with first prize at a small local tournament, he is reported to have said ‘Ladies and gentleman, big prize, big speech, small prize, small speech. I thank you’, and then walked off the stage.

[22] SUMMER 2025 | FEATURE GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

CHARLEY HULL: R A W , R E A D Y, AND REAL As the AIG Women’s Open heads to Royal Porthcawl, Charley Hull opens up on major heartbreaks, links challenges, and staying grounded while the spotlight grows Photography: Getty Images

know that you've played here just recently, so I guess we'll start by maybe just you giving us your early impressions and what you're looking forward to heading into the championship?

I played it back in January. It was nice. We probably got the nicest day in January. It was quite warm, it was like 7 degrees and the sun was out, and the golf course was in great condition. I was very pleased and impressed by it.

It wasn't the first time I played it. I played it in the Junior Vagliano back in 2011. I think I was like 14 or 15. I think I might have been about 14. But yeah, it was cool golf course. It's nice.

Quality ball-striking, like that would be a real strength of yours. Do you come across a course and think I've got this.

That happened at the Women's PGA, and that was unbelievable. I enjoyed the U.S. Open last year. The greens were ridiculously slopey and crazy, but that was good fun. I kind of find the longer and the tighter the golf course, I prefer.

Do you like links courses?

No, I don't like links golf courses. Not in golf competitions. I like playing them with my friends when you can laugh at everyone hitting bad shots because I'm usually the one hitting the bad shots.

But in a tournament, I do like more of a parkland golf course. But I've just got to see it as a challenge.

Have you sort of grown more adept at links, though?

I think so. I was all right at links golf when I was younger-younger. But as I kind of got better, I just kind of got my game really good for America.

I

Have you reached out to Georgia about that because she's kind of the other way around, isn't she.

She likes slow greens, and she like little chip-and-runs. That's why it goes in more of her favour.

Kind of depends what side of the draw you're on.

100 per cent, yeah. It's crazy. Yeah, it's crazy. The Scottish Open a few years ago, there was something crazy between the morning draw and the afternoon draw, and I had the worse draw in the morning and then it was like a different day in the afternoon. It was ridiculously crazy. I think only like five people from the morning draw made the cut or something.

Watching you in that final round at Pebble Beach earlier this year, it was amazing to see you really loved just trying to fashion shots.

That's what I love, golf courses where you can have to draw some, fade some, hit some high, hit some low, and just be direct with the shots. That was great fun.

Just got to get it done and dusted, but the only one that can do it is myself, so I've just got to pull my head out of my ass and do it.

Is what Rory did any sort of inspiration?

To be fair, I didn't watch any of the Masters apart from the front nine on the last day, and I turned it off after that because I went to sleep. It was pretty inspiring, though, I'm not going to lie, especially after how he started. I thought, oh, he's done, he's not winning this, and then I woke up in the morning and he won. But fair play to him. it was going to happen. it happened at the ANA -- well, Kraft Nabisco. And then yeah, it was crazy; Lydia Ko got up-and-down the last hole to knock us out of the playoff.

Do you set that as a goal?

I'd rather win a major than be world No. 1 because I don't think sometimes golf rankings can be super fair. Like it all depends on how many tournaments you play in and stuff. But I think the majors, you're playing against everyone that week, and when you win it's cool.

I THINK JUST THE WAY THAT GOLF IS GROWING IN GENERAL IS REALLY, GOOD. I do enjoy links golf. I do find it fun. But I just find it quite hard because I like treelined, so the tighter it is on my eye, the more I feel comfortable playing it. When it's like a field, like you can't really picture out lines and stuff, that's what I find tricky.

I want to ask you about your major record, as well. You must be thinking it's going to happen. Is it four seconds now? I was thinking back to Augusta when Rory won, and it's almost like perseverance pays off. Have you ever told yourself the same thing?

I've always been knocking on the door.

Golf tournaments but you played better but finished second?

And then you can scab it around and you can win and you're like, how did I do that.

Is there any way you can say to yourself, if you've had a second or third or played well, it's kind of weird to actually pat yourself on the back, isn't it, because you haven't come away with the trophy.

I know, exactly. But then you've just got to take positives, try and take positives away

from it because obviously in women's golf there's five majors. But in sport there are like four majors and you've just got four times a year to win one; do you know what I mean.

Do you build your schedule around the majors?

I do, but I build my schedule mostly around being at home because I don't like being away from home. I'm such a home person. If I didn't play golf -- if I was to not play golf, I would just love to be in England and just live in England - I love it - or the UK. I feel like because I've been travelling since, I was like 12 years old, it takes a toll on you. I just do two weeks on, two weeks off here and there.

Will you aim to try and get here again before -I don’t really like to know a golf course too well because then you start thinking.

So I just like to know it enough but not overthink it. I don't even use the yardage book when I play. Just Adam, my caddie, goes, to the front, 120; to the pin, 140.

Okay, cool.

How much time do you spend at home in Surrey?

I spend quite a lot. I probably only play like 21 events a year. Some girls play 36. That's no life. I've got a life outside of golf.

Do you play more in a Solheim Cup year?

No, it's probably similar every year kind of thing.

You love saying that you've got a life; do you think that's part of the reason why you're very popular?

Your popularity seems to have really risen recently.

It's mad. I'm just being myself. If you like me, you like me. If you don't, lump

FEATURE | SUMMER 2025 [23] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

it. Do you know what I mean? I'm just me.

Generally, I'm just me. I'm not changing it for the world.

I think too many people in life, especially in the sport industry, thinks they've got to maintain some type of image or this and that and they're too scared of, people don't like me, got to act this way. Just be yourself. People's opinions don't pay bills, and you've got to be yourself, otherwise you'll be miserable pretending to be something else.

Do you feel like you have been that sort of person in the past?

I don't know really. When I was younger, I was quite -- I've always been like that.

When I was six, I was running around and never listened, did my own thing my own way and always learnt the hard way, and I've always been like that, to be fair.

The Open in Wales will have a massive impact on women and girls' golf in Wales. I was wondering if there was anything coming through as a career that you can think an event or something happening that had a big impact -I've loved going and watching the men's British Open when I was younger. Growing up, I didn't watch any women's golf. I didn't know what the Solheim Cup was until I played in the Junior Solheim Cup, two years before the actual Solheim Cup. My dad said you're picked for Solheim Cup; I'm like, what's the Solheim Cup, Dad, and he was explaining it's like the men's Ryder Cup but for women, and I was like, okay.

The only other time I've come to a women's golf event was when I was nine years old. It was the Weetabix Women's British Open back in the day, and that was kind of the first time that I met the players and stuff. Apart from that, I didn't know too much about women's golf. It was all men's golf. But now I think it's good because it's getting more shown on TV, and now younger girls are looking up to women golfers rather than just the men golfers.

I think just the way that golf is growing in general is really, good. I think like juniors down at the golf club and stuff, I used to love being a junior, going down to the golf club and getting a junior Diet Coke and a junior chicken burger. Could get them for like 60p or whatever it was. I know it's going to sound random, but little stuff like that, like junior days out and stuff just helps encourage it all because you're there having a gossip, playing golf with your mates and just having a laugh.

■ CHARLEY HULL TAKES DIRECTION FROM LONG-TIME CADDY ADAM WOODWARD

Who did you look up to when you were young Tiger Woods, Seve Ballesteros.

Any of the women?

I didn't really know any women. I probably knew Laura Davies and Dottie Pepper because we used to watch the men's golf and Dottie used to comment. So basically, that's where I knew her from. It was mad.

Not until I played with Morgan Pressel in the pro-am of the British Open; that's then when I knew then who she was and then knew who Annika was since I spoke to her there, and that's when I had Morgan standing. But it's crazy, yeah.

Seve was interesting to you?

It’s because my dad always used to get me watching the Seve short game DVDs as a kid. I wish golf was like that because I think it was way more interesting back then rather than these days it's all about how far you hit the golf ball. Back then it was all about how to shape the shot and create all the shots and everything and play blades and all that. I think golf was 10 times more interesting.

post golf stuff or just some random stuff because I just want to, like, be private but not be private with my friends and stuff but just live normal rather than people just saying stuff. Do you get what I mean?

I agree with that. I don't know how Pit Bull and they do it. Yeah, it's crazy.

Did you set out to do that at a very early age, that your life was going to be like that, that you were going to keep it private?

Not really, no, because I never understood -- I never from an early age didn't think why people would be interested in what I do. I never could understand that.

But obviously they are because I play golf and stuff, and they probably want

great. Hopefully it's going to get loads of younger kids into the game of golf.

Especially was it 2010 when they played the Ryder Cup here, and now this, I think it's pretty good how they just keep evolving.

You said when you were a junior you looked up to the men as your inspiration. When you see these young girls coming out to the golf tournaments and things, do you have that in the back of your mind that you think it's on -- not on you, but you have a real to play in inspiring?

Obviously when I was younger, I was brought up with all the boys, and would I change that for the world? No, I wouldn't,

■ FROM TEE TO GREEN, HULL BRINGS FEARLESS ENERGY TO EVERY SHOT

When people ask why you haven't won majors, maybe the reason is driver technology -I'm quite a good driver of the golf ball, and my favourite driver was when I was a young girl, I always used to play the small head ones. Even these days, I hate it when they bring too big a headed driver out. I just like old school. I think if this was like the '90s or the '80s, I would have been good.

Do you get noticed outside the golf course?

I do sometimes. We've had one where -- just like London or randomly. Like yesterday, or Saturday night, I was just in my other house in Kettering, and I was getting some stuff out in the car, and I heard a group of lads come by the house, oh, I think that might be Charley Hull's house there; I'd love to meet Charley Hull.

They were just saying my name, and I didn't even take no notice because I was behind a wall and didn't see me, and then as I was getting my clubs out of the car, and they're like, excuse me, are you Charley Hull, and I went, yeah. They was like, no, you're not. I was like, okay, no, I'm not then. But you are, and then it was like, oh, my God, can I have a picture with you, and they're like, I can't believe I met you. And I'm just thinking, why can't you believe you met me? All I do is whack a ball around a field. Do you know what I mean?

It was quite funny.

Do you sometimes think that if you and Georgia were where you actually could have a life outside – 1 million per cent. I agree with that. I was just thinking the other day, I've just got like my Instagram now is for golf, and I don't have the password; like I have no interest in it. Like I've got a private Instagram with my friends that has like 50 people in it, and that's the way I want to keep it, where my other Instagram I would just

to know my personal life, but I never understood why people would want to because I think to myself, all I do is whack a ball around a field. Why would people be -How is the running and the 10,000 bet?

Easy, not smoked, and it's been a few months now. Well, I said for two months because if I was to break a habit for two months and I'm not going to go back to it, but you can't promise anything for life. You can't promise anything for life.

And you haven't gone back?

No, definitely not, no. It was the easiest thing I ever done. And then my running is going well, but just changing my training a little bit. Just calming it down a little bit.

But yeah.

Are you sleeping a bit better?

I do sometimes struggle sleeping, but I can sleep for like 13, 14 hours, as well, at times, which is a bit weird. But I've always been into my fitness since I was about 13, 14 years old. I've always been in the gym. So yeah, it's just I enjoy it. It's just something better to do than sitting in a pub all day drinking.

Bringing it back to the AIG Women's Open, we're quite proud that it's going to be the largest ever women's sporting event to be played in Wales. What does that mean to you from a player's perspective, to be sort of making history and for it to be golf?

I think it's really, cool. I think it's brilliant. I think it shows you how far golf has come, like women's golf has come to now come into where it's going to be the biggest women's sporting event in Wales. That's a pretty big thing, I think, and I think it's

because I get on with guys better than I do girls, and I think it made me the player that I am. Hit the ball hard, keep up with the lads.

But I think it's good now how golf is getting bigger, it is inspiring younger kids and girls to play golf, and it's just nice to see that it's not just all lads on the golf club; there is a junior section of girls.

There's a lot going into women and girls' facilities. How important is that for just getting girls into golf?

You obviously need somewhere to get changed before and after, washed if you're in real sweaty sport and stuff like that. Yeah, definitely, I think all the little things make it more appealing for even their parents to take them to these places. Definitely.

As you said, you have got a life outside of golf. Have you ever set yourself a limit on how long you're going to be in the game because so many women golfers do and think I don't want to be doing this when I'm 35, when I'm 40?

I think I just want to play until I have kids and then once I have kids, I won't want to come back because I wouldn't think it's fair on a child. I'd want to give them a normal upbringing. But yeah. But I wouldn't quit golf. I'd quit golf playing on Tour. I'd play it all the time with my friends at home and take loads of money off them.

Have you noticed a real difference in the facilities at the Women's Open?

Every year it improves, like the gym, the physio rooms, the food places, how they have done for us in the evening, not just for lunch and everything. It's gotten so much better, it's unbelievable.

[24] SUMMER 2025 | FEATURE GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

T I M E T O P L AY IT FORWARD WHY EVERY UK COURSE NEEDS SENIOR TEES Golf is the game of a lifetime, but not every course has caught up with thelater chapters of life. 73 year-old Greg Evans explores how shorter tees can boost inclusion, pace of play and pure joy one forward step at a time. olf is often described as a game for life, but for many players, that statement only holds true if the course itself is designed to support every stage of that life. As the population of senior golfers continues to grow across the UK, there’s a clear need to rethink how we approach the tee box. One small change, introducing proper senior tees at every golf course could make an enormous difference.

Not to make the game easier, but to keep it inclusive, enjoyable and engaging for all.

Picture a sunny Saturday: four generations teeing off together, laughter echoing down the fairway. Golf unites us across ages, but as anyone past 70 will tell you, the back nine can feel a lot longer than it used to. Those standard tee boxes may suit younger, more agile players, but they can quickly become a test of endurance for seasoned golfers. The game becomes less of a round and more of a physical trial, where what once felt like leisure now demands grit, stamina, and more painkillers than one would care to admit.

That’s where senior tees come in, not as a shortcut, but as a smart respectful adjustment.

Properly placed forward tees can offer older players a fair challenge, bring back the joy of competitive scoring, and dramatically improve the experience on the course. They allow players to enjoy the game, rather than endure it. Golf, after all, is supposed to be fun.

The physical challenges of long tees are no small matter. For older players what used to be a comfortable drive becomes a struggle for distance. Shots that once found the green now come up short. There’s more time spent trudging through the rough, bending to retrieve wayward balls, and navigating hazards that no longer suit their swing speed. What was once a leisurely four-ball can feel more like a hike.

The mental toll adds up too, frustration grows, confidence dips, and the joy of a well-played hole starts to feel out of reach.

Of course, some courses including Royal Liverpool, Royal Mid Surrey and Golf at Goodwood have already embraced the idea.

Across the UK, a few forward-thinking clubs have introduced dedicated senior tees with pride, making them a visible and well-integrated part of the course. These courses treat their seasoned members with respect, offering them shorter tee boxes, accessible signage, and even dedicated scorecards. But for every club that

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gets it right, there are many more that don’t.

Too often, senior tees are either unmarked, unofficial, or entirely absent—leaving older players to make do with distances that no longer match their capabilities.

This inconsistency results in what can only be described as a postcode lottery for senior golfers. At one club, they’re met with well-designed tees, welcoming staff, and even the occasional cup of tea at the turn.

At the next, they’re quietly expected to keep up with younger players, tiptoeing back to the regular tees and hoping their knees cooperate. The experience is unequal, and worse it’s avoidable.

Properly introduced senior tees can do far more than trim a few yards off the card. They inject fresh energy into every round. Suddenly, score lines become tighter, banter becomes better, and bets made over bacon rolls feel that little bit more competitive. When the tee box suits everyone in the group, the game becomes a level playing field again one where a 75-yearold can outdrive their grandson and rightfully claim bragging rights at the 19th hole.

The benefits go well beyond the fairway. Shorter tees reduce strain on joints and muscles, letting older players finish their rounds without next-day regrets. They also boost pace of play rounds move quicker, courses flow better, and everyone enjoys a smoother experience. But perhaps most importantly, they keep senior players engaged in the game they love.

Every swing becomes a celebration of longevity, every round an affirmation that golf truly is a lifelong sport.

Socially, senior tees keep communities connected. Weekly rounds with friends become more

■ ROYAL MID SURREY HAVE EMBRACED SENIOR TEES

than tradition, they’re therapy, fitness, and laughter wrapped into one. The familiar faces at the club remain part of the scene, not pushed aside by the physical demands of a course that forgot to evolve. And let’s not forget the younger generations. When grandkids see their grandparents still playing and playing well, they’re reminded that golf isn’t just a game for now. It’s a game for always.

So why, then have so many clubs resisted the change? Part of it comes down to tradition.

Every club has its gatekeepers, those who believe the course should stay as it always was. But it’s worth remembering that golf has always adapted, whether it’s the move from hickory shafts to carbon fibre, or the evolution of technology in drivers. Embracing senior tees is not a betrayal of tradition, but a continuation of progress.

The solution isn’t complicated. It starts with awareness, getting committees to understand the need and see the benefits. It’s about inviting sceptics to play from the senior tees, letting them feel the difference and appreciate the perspective. And yes, it may require some lobbying: petitions, letters, and perhaps even a jam tart or two offered at the next AGM. But with enough support, every course can make the shift.

Making senior tees a standard feature of UK golf courses is not just the right thing to do, it’s the smart thing to do. It shows respect for the game’s most loyal players, keeps clubs vibrant and welcoming, and ensures that no one is left behind simply because they’ve racked up more birthdays than birdies. It’s a small change with massive potential.

Let’s move the conversation forward. Let’s move the tee markers forward too. The future of golf should be inclusive, competitive, and full of life, at every age.

Now’s the time to tee it forward.

INTERVIEW | SUMMER 2025 [25] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

“IT CHANGED T H E T R A J EC TO RY OF MY LIFE” Bill Rogers looks back on his Open triumph and the years that followed. Interview by Jack Martin

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Was winning the Open, ahead of a player like Bernhard Langer, the defining moment in your career?

“Growing up I never aspired to win a major, be it the Open or any of them. I was a slow learner. But as I evolved into a player and gradually enjoyed success, the ambition to win a big one came to me. It changed the trajectory of my life. But I’m more than just an Open champion.”

Did you believe you could win the Open that year going into the event?

“I never liked to say that I was going to win a particular event. Tiger Woods often proclaimed he was there to win ahead of major week. I never had that mindset. I took the game as it came to me. The success came when I was free and went along with the momentum. A month earlier I finished second at the US Open at Merrion. My game was in great shape so it was no surprise to me that I succeeded at the Open. I didn’t have any mistakes. No crooked shots or foul balls. My intensity was the key factor. I was in my own bubble.”

Can you remember how you celebrated the Open victory?

“I remember I had a 10-foot par putt. I made it.

I hadn’t pre-determined how I would celebrate.

But I picked the ball up out of the hole and threw it into the stands. That was my relief showing in that moment. Afterwards, my agent and I went to London and had a nice dinner with champagne.

When I returned to my hometown, we had a huge celebration.”

Did you lose motivation after winning the Open… Was burnout why you retired from main tour golf several years later?

“I enjoyed the moment of becoming an Open champion. But there were a lot of factors to my downward spiral. I was indeed burned out. I lost the kid like feel of playing the game and enjoying it. I chased the almighty dollar all over the world.

I had commitments anywhere and everywhere. I lost the desire to compete at the top level. When I left the tour in the 1988/89 season, I didn’t miss it at all.”

Do you regret not winning more tournaments?

“I did win more tournaments. I won four more

times after the Open. I enjoyed the Ryder Cup matches at Walton Heath. I’m grateful for the career I had. I had my big moment and I’m satisfied with that.”

What was it like winning the World Matchplay at Wentworth?

“A big highlight in my career. I was invited, with help through Mark McCormack at IMG, who ran the event. I was an unheralded player in the field.

I was a surprise winner. Winning it was special.

I loved Wentworth and match play golf. It’s ironic but I’m sitting here now looking at a photo of me and my wife hoisting the trophy.”

What was it like facing off against Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson at the 1983 US Open?

“Amazing, even though I didn’t win. I had a chance to win. Me and Tom were tied going into the last round. I led through nine holes that day.

Ultimately the best player won. It would have been special to win the US Open against those two players.”

GETTY IMAGES

t’s over 40 years since you won the Open at Royal St George’s.

What memory sticks out when you look back?

“It was 44 years ago. It feels like another lifetime ago. But on the heels of watching Rory McIlroy winning the Masters, I remember the feeling of winning a major. Exhilaration and relief.

You play all the holes right on the edge and, when it’s over, this freedom comes over you. That’s what I experienced in ‘81 at Royal St George’s.”

I DIDN’T HAVE ANY MISTAKES. NO CROOKED SHOTS OR FOUL BALLS. MY INTENSITY WAS THE KEY FACTOR. I WAS IN MY OWN BUBBLE. so competitive, being in the Air Force, so maybe that’s where I got my passion for competition.”

Who was the best player you faced on tour?

“I got to touch and feel all of them, playing in the era that I did. From Byron Nelson and Ben Hogan.

I got meet them. Sam Snead was still competing.

I played with Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer.

But Tom Watson sticks out because when I was playing well in the late 70s and early 80s, he was there as well. He did away with me several times. I fell to him many times. He was a special player. An unbelievable talent.”

How do you fill your spare time these days?

“I have a little ranch that I look after. I love going down to Australia. I spend time outdoors a lot with my family. My faith is very meaningful to me.

God has given me a good life.”

Which player do you follow on tour now?

“It’s a different game now but I like Scottie Scheffler. Not only his golf game but how he is an ambassador for the game. Who he is as a person, a father and a husband. The other one I really like is Shane Lowry. I love the way he plays. He makes it look so easy and gifted. He’s intense but he has maybe the best hands in golf.”

What’s your most favourite course and why?

“If I had one round of golf left to play it would probably be at Pebble Beach. I have fond memories of playing the 1982 US Open there. It’s an historical place. It’s one of the most beautiful settings in the world.”

What would you have been if you weren’t a golfer?

“I was brought up in a golf family and around country clubs. I would have been involved in

the golf world in some capacity. I had a foot in the door as a designer when I was young. I had a friend as an architect who could have got me started. But it would’ve involved too much travelling.”

What was your father like? Did he get into you golf?

“He was a big golf fan and played a lot. I used to watch him and my brother play. Then I picked up a club and never looked back. My father was

What’s the best thing about being form Texas?

“It’s a country in its own. Everyone should live here.

It has diverse climate. There’re loads of restaurants.

All the steaks and barbecues come big.”

Are the game’s historical courses like Pebble Beach being stretched with the modern golf ball’s distance?

“It’s a different game to what we played, that’s for sure. It was bound to happen. It’s the nature of technology improvement. But people like the long ball. It creates a lot of interest to the golf fan. So, I wouldn’t roll it back. I would probably leave everything alone. Often the conditions affect the scoring. Wind, rain, or the greens.”

Is there anything you would change about the world of golf?

“I would say I have a fear that the game is being tampered with too much. There’re too many changes with rules and other things. I played in a traditional era so with this LIV and PGA Tour dispute, you can imagine where I stand.

We could lose the pureness of the game.”

[26] SUMMER 2025 | FEATURE GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

OLD TOM MORRIS: THE MAN WHO SHAPED GOLF

■ ST ANDREWS’ MOST LEGENDARY FIGURE NOW WATCHES OVER ITS MOST LEGENDARY FAIRWAY

A four-time Champion Golfer and an innovator in modern greenkeeping methods, Old Tom Morris also left his mark on the golfing world with a long list of stunning links courses dotted around Great Britain and Ireland, from the iconic Old Course at St Andrews, and the challenging contours at Carnoustie and Muirfield, to the rumpled fairways of County Down, North Devon and Lahinch, and dozens more championship venues in between

f you’ve played much golf in Scotland, there’s a strong chance you’ve trod the crumpled fairways and undulating greens originally designed by one of the game’s most iconic figures – Old Tom Morris.

Even if you can’t picture his likeness, the very name conjures up visions of a heavily bearded old man, flat cap in place, bent over a putt while dressed in a full tweed outfit, or sat on a bench with pipe in hand looking wistfully into the distance. Despite possessing almost mythical status, Tom Morris – he only became ‘Old’ to distinguish himself from his son, also Tom, who became ‘Young’ – was a larger-than-life character who came to dominate the golfing scene as a player and latterly a golf course architect in his

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native Scotland during the second half of the 19th century.

Born in St Andrews in 1821, Morris started out his golfing life as an apprentice to the legendary St Andrews professional and clubmaker Allan Robertson. Their partnership endured for over a decade, often playing together in foursomes matches, however their friendship came to a

ALWAYS A MAN TO EMBRACE PROGRESS WHILE RESPECTING THE PAST, MORRIS MOVED TO PRESTWICK IN 1851 TO SERVE AS THE CLUB’S FIRST PROFESSIONAL AND GREENKEEPER

somewhat abrupt end in 1848 when Robertson fired Morris after he discovered that his protégé had had the temerity to use a new-fangled gutta percha ball in favour of the featherie ball used by Robertson, which he also used to sell in his shop.

Always a man to embrace progress while respecting the past, Morris moved to Prestwick in 1851 to serve as the club’s first professional and greenkeeper – the roles were often doubled up in those days. With no more than two dozen golf clubs existing anywhere in the world at that time, Morris was given virtual carte blanche to design the 12-hole course at Prestwick that was to become the blueprint for so many of his future projects, including criss-crossing fairways, blind tee shots, big greens, and short par 4s.

No slouch with a golf club in hand, Morris put his knowledge of Prestwick’s twists and turns to good effect when winning The Open Championship four times between 1861-67, while his son, Young Tom, who pre-deceased him by 30 years, went on to win the title at the same venue between 1868-72.

News of the success of his design work at Prestwick soon spread, and before long Morris was engaged in undertaking new designs and modifications to existing courses all over Scotland, and then further airfield to Ireland, and, eventually, to England and Wales.

OLD TOM MORRIS COURSES

LUDIN GOLF CLUB

TAIN GOLF CLUB

WEST KILBRIDE GOLF CLUB

Designed by Old Tom Morris in 1868, Lundin Golf Club has a bit of everything: burns, blind drives, out-of-bounds, a nimiety of bunkers, the ever-present wind and truly excellent greens.

Tel: 01333 320202 Email: secretary@lundingolfclub.co.uk

is a classic Scottish Highland links course designed by Old Tom Morris. If you would like to play golf while in Scotland you are guaranteed a warm welcome at Tain and it will be a pleasure to play a great course which is suitable for all standards of golfer.

Tel: 01862 892314 Web: tain-golfclub.co.uk

With views across the Firth of Clyde to the beautiful island of Arran, West Kilbride provides a true Scottish links golf experience. The Club is proud to have been selected as the host venue for both the 2023 R&A Seniors Home Internationals and the 2025 Scottish Boys Championship.

Tel: 01294 823911 Web: westkilbridegolfclub.com

FEATURE | SUMMER 2025 [27] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

UK GOLF PRO COMPLETES

182-HOLE ARCTIC M A R AT H O N After 182 holes, 53 miles on foot, 35 lost balls and 8,000 calories burned, 25-yearold Isaac Rowlands has broken the Guinness World Record for the World’s Longest Golf Marathon which he played in the Arctic Circle’s midnight sun – raising more than £6,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support in the process.

PHOTO: GARY LISBON

■ LOFOTEN LINKS IS DRAMATICALLY CARVED INTO NORWAY’S ARCTIC COASTLINE

attling four hours of heavy rain at the start and playing nonstop for 32 hours, the Assistant Pro from The Grove in Hertfordshire completed his extraordinary feat to beat the previous record of just under 31 hours at Lofoten Links in Norway, the world’s most northerly links course, regularly ranked among the best in the world and one of the most picturesque courses on the planet.

The previous record was also set at Lofoten Links back in 2022.

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The challenge was inspired by Isaac’s own brush with cancer as a teenager, and the physical and emotional effort poured into the campaign is set to give him international recognition with a place in the record books.

The 25-year-old Cambridge native and former captain of the Cambridgeshire County Golf team joined The Grove back in 2022, before taking his PGA studies and joining the Pro team in October 2023.

After completing the successful record attempt, Isaac said: “It was both exhausting and exhilarating. Playing a

course as incredible as Lofoten Links was a true privilege and being able to contribute to such an important cause made the experience even more rewarding.

“I had a Lymphoma scare when I was 19, for which I had many tests and two operations until I was given the allclear. Throughout the whole process, Macmillan provided unwavering support. I would want others in the same situation to continue to get this level of support when going through such a difficult time.

“I have seen for myself the amazing work Macmillan does for people, and I want to raise awareness of their care and dedication. Thank you to my friends and colleagues at The Grove and Lofoten Links for helping me make this happen, it’s an experience I’ll never forget.”

Isaac told Golf News “The golf started off poorly as I was trying to swing it easy to conserve myself and protect my bodythis proved problematic as I was getting flippy and lost a lot of balls so I really had to concentrate on producing good golf swings each time.

The guys I was with would call out different shots for me to try and hit which kept it interesting.

There was one lapse of concentration where I played down the wrong fairway on a par 5 and ended up making a 12.

My best scoring round was around the 7th or 8th round. I lost around 35 balls as the course was tricky and off the fairways was treacherous” Support from back home helped him through months and months of training and preparation. Joel Westwell, Director of Golf at The Grove, said: “We were very proud at The Grove to support Isaac, while many of us were envious of him playing in such an incredible golf course.

Although millions of us love playing golf, this was a seriously physical challenge, and we have supported him in every way we could to ensure a successful world record attempt. I would urge everyone to give generously for such an amazing cause.”

Donations are still welcome on his Just Giving Page, Search Isaac’s World Record fundraiser.

[28] SUMMER 2025 | FEATURE GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

THE PEOPLE’S CHAMPION With charm, grit, and unmistakable talent, Shane Lowry has become one of golf’s most beloved figures.

From major wins to heartfelt moments, we take a closer look at the Irishman making waves on and off the course Photography Getty Images.

FEATURE | SUMMER 2025 [29] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

here is something profoundly Irish about Shane Lowry. It’s not just the Offaly accent that rolls with musical lilt across greens from Portrush to Augusta, or the pints poured in his honour back in Clara after each triumph. It’s the humility, the heart-onsleeve honesty, and the sense that no matter how high he climbs in the golfing world, his feet remain planted in the peat-rich soil of home.

Lowry, 38, is more than just a major champion.

He’s a golfer who defies expectations, eschews convention, and has carved out a niche in the sport as one of its most authentic figures. In a world where media training often sterilizes personality, Lowry is gloriously unfiltered. He doesn’t just play golf, he feels it, lives it, and shares every step with the fans who see a bit of themselves in him.

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THE ROOTS OF A CHAMPION Born in 1987 in the small town of Clara, County Offaly, Lowry’s upbringing was rooted in the working-class culture of rural Ireland. His father, Brendan Lowry, was a key member of the Offaly Gaelic football team that won the All-Ireland Championship in 1982, so sport was woven into the family DNA. “I had a great childhood,” Lowry once said.

“It was simple. It was about family, friends, and football. I never dreamed of being a professional golfer because where I come from, that just wasn’t a thing.”

It wasn’t until his teenage years that golf became more than a summer distraction. What began as a hobby quickly blossomed into obsession. Lowry honed his game at Esker Hills Golf Club, a modest course with wild fairways and unpredictable winds—conditions that would later mirror the ones he would conquer at the 2019 Open Championship.

“Shane’s development was always about raw talent and tenacity,” said Paul McGinley, former Ryder Cup captain and fellow Irishman. “He never took shortcuts. He learned the hard way, and that grit is what sets him apart.”

Lowry’s approach to golf was never about perfection or technical mastery alone. It was about passion, intuition, and a love for the game’s challenges. The rugged Irish landscapes where he grew up taught him resilience, and the unpredictable elements shaped his ability to adapt a skill that would serve him well on the international stage.

THE AMATEUR WHO BEAT THE PROS Lowry’s breakthrough came in 2009 when, as an amateur, he won the Irish Open at Louth Golf Club in a dramatic playoff with Robert Rock. It was one of those moments that resonates across a country: a fresh-faced local lad toppling the pros on home soil. The scenes were electric, the rain-soaked crowd euphoric.

“It was the stuff of dreams,” Lowry reflected years later. “That week changed everything for me.”

Turning professional almost immediately afterward, the transition wasn’t without its challenges. There were missed cuts and growing pains, but the foundations were laid for a career that would blend resilience with flair.

Rory McIlroy, Ireland’s other golfing superstar, has often praised Lowry’s humility and work ethic: “Shane doesn’t get the headlines like some, but he’s one of the hardest workers I know. He’s the kind of guy who will keep grinding no matter what.”

A GOLFER OF GRIT AND GRACE What makes Lowry so compelling isn’t just his ability to win, it’s how he wins. He is not the robotic, fairway-hitting, hyper-optimized archetype of the modern golfer. His game, like his personality, is charmingly imperfect. He battles his swing, sometimes his nerves, but what he never loses is his fight.

“Shane is a player who thrives when the conditions are tough,” said Padraig Harrington.

“He’s not afraid of a scrap. He’s a battler, and that’s a rare thing at the highest level.”

Lowry’s short game is lauded among the best in the world. His feel around the greens is almost artistic built not in labs or through swing data, but through intuition and hours of trial and error on windy links courses.

“I never had a coach growing up,” Lowry has said. “I learned by doing, by hitting shots, by watching how the ball reacts. That’s real golf, I think.”

Lee Westwood a former Ryder Cup teammate, once remarked: “Watching Shane work the short game is like watching a craftsman at his bench.

He’s got something special there, it’s pure feel and instinct.”

He’s also known for his ability to remain calm under pressure, a trait that’s often tested during the final rounds of major championships. His resilience has been forged through years of navigating setbacks and disappointments, yet he approaches each challenge with an earnestness that endears him to fans and peers alike.

THE PORTRUSH FAIRYTALE The pinnacle of Lowry’s career so far came at the 2019 Open Championship at Royal Portrush.

Returning to Northern Ireland for the first time since 1951, the event was already steeped in significance. What unfolded that week, however, became the stuff of sporting legend.

Lowry played inspired golf throughout the tournament, culminating in a dazzling third-round 63 that gave him a four-shot lead. The final day was a test of nerve and weather, a cold, wet, windy gauntlet that many thought might break him. But Lowry, roared on by a partisan crowd, held firm.

As he walked up the 18th to a standing ovation, tears in his eyes and arms aloft, it was more than just a personal triumph. It was a cultural moment for Ireland.

“I’ll never forget it,” Lowry said afterward. “That noise on the 18th I’ll never hear anything like it again. I wasn’t just playing for me. I was playing for everyone back home.”

“Shane’s victory at Portrush was not just about golf,” said Darren Clarke, 2011 Open Champion. “It was about pride, about roots, about a community coming together. It moved all of us.”

■ SHANE LOWRY CELEBRATES AN UNFORGETTABLE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP VICTORY AT ROYAL PORTRUSH IN 2019 SHARING THE TRIUMPH WITH THOSE WHO MATTER MOST

A FAN’S FAVOURITE

A HEART ON HIS SLEEVE Off the course, Lowry’s appeal lies in his candour.

He speaks honestly about pressure, self-doubt, and the mental toll of elite sport.

“There have been times I’ve walked off the course and thought, ‘I’m not good enough,’” he admitted in an interview. “But I’ve learned that’s part of it.

You must ride the lows to enjoy the highs.”

Lowry is also refreshingly open about the balance between golf and family. Married to Wendy Honner, a former nurse, and a father to two daughters now living in Jupiter, Florida, Lowry often speaks of how fatherhood changed his perspective.

“I used to take golf home with me,” he said.

“Now, when I walk through the door, it’s about being a dad first. That’s helped me more than any sports psychologist ever could.”

His grounded nature extends beyond family.

Lowry is deeply connected to his Irish roots and often expresses pride in representing his country. He’s a reminder that no matter how global and commercial golf becomes, the game’s soul lives in players who remain true to their origins.

RYDER CUP FIRE Lowry’s passion for team competition came to the fore at the Ryder Cup. Though his debut

at Whistling Straits in 2021 came during a difficult European campaign, Lowry’s presence was galvanizing. His fist-pumping, roar-filled celebrations became highlights of an otherwise forgettable weekend for Europe.

“Shane’s the guy you want in the trenches,” said Rory McIlroy. “He cares deeply, not just about himself, but about the team, the jersey, the history.”

In 2023 in Rome, he was again a vital cog in Luke Donald’s side, bringing fire and focus on key moments. His energy and emotional investment in the event have made him a fan favourite and a respected teammate, reinforcing his status as one of Ireland’s great sporting ambassadors.

■ A YOUNG SHANE LOWRY TEES OFF DURING HIS ROOKIE SEASON ON TOUR, THE BEGINNING OF A JOURNEY THAT WOULD LEAD TO MAJOR GLORY

Ask a golf fan why they love Shane Lowry, and the answer is rarely technical. It’s about authenticity.

He’s the player you’d most like to have a pint with after a round. He swears at his ball, shrugs off bad shots, celebrates wildly when he holes one. He’s not trying to be anyone but himself.

And that has made him beloved, not just in Ireland, but across the golfing world.

Legacy in Progress At 38, Lowry’s career is far from over.

With multiple wins under his belt, a major championship, $30M in career earnings and Ryder Cup pedigree, he is already one of Ireland’s most successful golfers. But ask him about legacy, and he’ll smile.

“I’m just trying to be the best version of myself, every day,” he says. “If people remember me as someone who gave it everything and made people smile, that’s enough for me.”

In an era of algorithms and branding, Shane Lowry is a throwback and a revelation. He is proof that success and sincerity can coexist, that joy and grit are not opposites, and that the game of golf, at its best, still has space for soul.

FIVE CLASSIC LOWRY QUOTES 1. On nerves: “If you’re not nervous, you don’t care. I care too much not to feel it.”

2. On winning The Open: “It was the best week of my life. And the hangover wasn’t bad either.”

3. On self-doubt: “You have weeks where you wonder if you’ll ever contend again. But golf is like that – it kicks you down so you appreciate the good days.”

4. On his upbringing: “I come from a small town. I was never supposed to be here. But here I am.”

5. On being a fan favorite: “If people enjoy watching me, that’s amazing.

I’m just being me.”

[30] SUMMER 2025 | FEATURE GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

GOLF IN S U R R E Y Home to over 140 golf courses, from iconic world-class layouts to a wide range of scenic and accessible options, Surrey offers something for every golfer. Its renowned heathland settings and historic designs by legendary architects continue to attract purists and casual players alike

ith more courses in the UK’s top 100 rankings than any other county in England, Surrey stands as an undisputed heavyweight in the golfing world, no matter how you look at it.

And if you’re looking to cut down on the regular commute to your nearest course then you’d be strongly advised to move to the county which tops the table of UK counties with the highest percentage of land used for golfing activities.

Although by no means the largest county in the country, Surrey, which boasts a population of just over one million, is home to 142 golf courses within its borders, which measures 642 square miles. The borough of Woking came out on top across the entire country, with 10.74% of land being golf course. While within Surrey, Runnymede came second with 6.83%, while Epsom and Ewell took third place at 6.30%. Fourth went to Surrey Heath with 4.99%, with Elmbridge in fifth at 4.48%. Reigate and Banstead came next with 3.37%, before a drop to Tandridge with 2.65% and Guildford at 2.28%.

London’s wealthiest home county is also fortunate from a golfing perspective to have a swathe of sand running through

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its confines, which was first exploited by Woking Golf Club. in 1893. This sandy heathland provided free-draining ground for those London golfers who didn’t fancy travelling to the coast or the South Downs to play golf.

Along with Woking, these early ‘stars of sand and heather’, as described by Bernard Darwin, also New Zealand GC (1895) and Hankley Common (1896), but golf was played in Surrey much earlier than this, with rounds, in the loosest term, having been played on Wimbledon Common in the early 19th century.

Records go back to 1864, suggesting that some of the London Scottish Rifle Volunteer Corps, who were posted nearby, met on the common to form the London Scottish Golf Club. Golf then spread to the chalky North Downs of Guildford in 1886 and then to Epsom and then Banstead, when heathland golf was still a twinkle in the eye.

For Surrey heathland golf at its finest, there are few better clubs to visit than Walton Heath, which rivals Sunningdale in terms of offering not one, but two courses worthy of true championship status. With the Old and the New both designed by Herbert Fowler, Walton Heath is where links golf meets inland golf. There is no

■ DRIFT 18TH GREEN

salty whiff of sea air, but the course plays and feels like a seaside links. A profusion of heather stripes the edge of the fairways. In the summer, when the heather is in flower, it is an absolute delight to look at, but a real challenge to play out of. The greens are true and fast, and the undulations make it tough to read the lines and the pace of putts. With some long carries over heather off the tee, both courses will not favour weak hitters, while anything hit offline will also require a lengthy search in the heather and, often, a reload.

Located just a few decent blows up the A24 from Walton Heath, you’ll come across

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Kingswood Golf & Country Club, which enjoys a splendid setting overlooking the Chipstead Valley. Founded in 1928 and Kingswood was once described as James Braid’s finest parkland course in England, with its gently undulating fairways flanked by a wide variety of stately trees combining with ideal topography to create an attractive landscape for golf.

Host venue to multiple important championships down the years, including three Ladies European Opens, Kingswood has always been a good test, but it presented an even better one following a major renovation programme

FEATURE | SUMMER 2025 [31] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ WALTON HEATH

completed in 2010 that increased the yardage to 6,954 yards to make it a true championship challenge.

Returning to the 36-hole theme, another Surrey venue that has the luxury of offering its members and visitors two championship courses is Foxhills Club & Resort, Located less than an hour from central London, the club is the home of variety and quality with two Championship courses both regular features in top 100 rankings, as well as a regular host venue for a number of professional tournaments including the International Series England in 2024.

Surrounded by Scots pine, beech and silver birch, the Longcross Course is renowned as one of Surrey’s top treelined layouts. Combining parkland and heathland-style holes, it provides a thrilling challenge, demanding precision to plot your way around. The highlight has to be the new signature 16th hole; playing

more than 200 yards from the back tees over water, this dramatic par-three is a real test even for a low handicapper.

Named after the former Foxhills head professional and 10-time Ryder Cup star, Bernard Hunt MBE, the Bernard Hunt offers a variety of holes and plays slightly longer than Longcross, with several eyecatching elevated tees and fun par-threes throughout the round.

In addition to its recent selection to host the Asian Tour’s flagship event in England, Foxhills continues to go from strength to strength. As the club celebrates its 50th anniversary, it has completed an ambitious £2m investment project into its golf courses which has seen the biggest structural changes to the courses since they were designed by Fred Hawtree and opened for play in 1975. With an aim to cement its place amongst the best courses in the country, the improvements encourage more strategy and creativity

throughout the round, making both courses better suited to the modern style of the game.

The club is also investing into its practice facilities with the installation of TrackMan technology into its 16-bay covered and floodlit driving range which also features synthetic target greens. As well as three additional putting greens, Foxhills’ academy is also home to the Practice Den - a 3,500 square-metre floodlit practice facility with a bunker, synthetic hitting areas and a large undulating green – perfect for practising chipping, pitching, putting and bunker play.

But it’s much more than just the golf at Foxhills. The award-winning country club and hotel also boasts an extensive range of leisure facilities.

Foxhills prides itself on a warm welcome and exceptional customer service, recognised by 59club, the industry’s benchmark of excellence, with gold flag status for eight years running, as well as being inducted into the Eminent Collection, one of just 17 venues worldwide.

Stay and play options are available, as are visitor tee times during the summer months. Foxhills is also a popular venue for charity and corporate golf days.

DRIFTGOLFCLUB.COM

info@driftgolfclub.com | 01483 284641 After playing 18 holes at The Drift Golf Club, it will remind you why you enjoy the game so much. Everything is exceptional and focuses on the customer and their experience. The drive into the club is grand and heightens the anticipation of the day ahead. Your green fee includes a warm up bucket on the 28 bay driving range allowing you to hone your yardages on Trackman before heading to the tee box. The fully stocked shop offers you the chance to top up on necessities or purchase a 50th Anniversary logoed memento.

On to the course, and every hole is a delight to play. The perfect mixture of risk and reward par 4’s, reachable par 5’s and challenging par 3’s. A par 72 at 6400 yards from the white tees, accuracy is required for almost every shot, wayward balls will be punished.

As you meander down the 18th fairway, the clubhouse appears, more importantly, the perfectly placed patio that overlooks the green. A great selection of refreshments can be found behind the bar, allowing you the chance to settle in for the remaining hours of the day.

Never wanting to rest on their laurels, the family owned club has just completed a three hole redevelopment project that has improved the course even further. Lengthening a par 5, turning a short par 4 into a picturesque par 3 and creating a signature 9th hole with new water feature will allow The Drift to celebrate their 50th anniversary in style.

Open to all golfing abilities, visitors and societies are welcome seven days a week, across the year. The range and short game area can be used by all, not to mention the array of events that can be hosted in the clubhouse.

At a club where there is always something going on, The Drift wins hearts and minds every time you pass through the gates.

Two superb layouts are also on offer at Burhill Golf Club, with The Old Course offering a more of a traditional Surrey heathland course, while the New is a more modern design which hosts regional Open qualifying every year. With a stunning clubhouse to support its great golf courses, Burhill always make for a great day out for society or corporate event.

Any discussion around great golf in Surrey will rarely fail to mention ‘the three W’s’ – the triumvirate of Woking, Worplesdon and West Hill. You’d think by now that they would have set up some kind of ticket to play all three in the space of a day or two, but instead they stand resolutely isolated, yet forever linked by their common starting letter and their geographical proximity.

Woking is one of Surrey’s earliest heathland tracks, having been laid out

by Tom Dunn back in 1893, but it cannot lay claim to be a true championship course with the back tees measuring just 6,602 yards. But length has never been Woking’s defence, as this most strategic of layouts requires well-positioned tee shots that must, at all costs, remain out of the heather, if you are to even finish a hole, let alone post a score. F

■ FOXHILLS

[32] SUMMER 2025 | FEATURE GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ SUTTON GREEN

Worplesdon is also not a long course by modern standards, at just less than 6,500 yards, but it’s sufficiently challenging for most and driving accuracy is far more important than length. The front nine plays across near-perfect undulating terrain, so expect some awkward stances.

The back nine, however, is sited on relatively even ground, but take care at the greens as they are often fast with subtle borrows and interesting undulations.

Completing the 3 Ws is West Hill, the youngest of the trio, having been built in 1910, and arguably the prettiest. The ccourse is routed in an out-and-back fashion across undulating sandy ground. The fairways are lined with pine, birch and, of course, tangly heather. Measuring slightly more than 6,350 yards, West Hill is not long, but with only two par fives and a lowly par of 69, it still represents a testing challenge. The key to scoring well is the successful negotiation of the five short holes and the best of these is undoubtedly the 15th, which measures 212 yards from the back tees. Henry Cotton, who

held the course record for a time, felt that that it was one of the par threes in Britain, and who are we to argue?

While the hallowed gates of Wentworth, Queenwood and Beaverbrook are closed to all but the golfing elite, you can be sure of a much warmer welcome at Hoebridge Golf Centre, the largest public facility in the southeast, which offers 45 holes of golf, plus an 18-hole pirate- themed adventure course. Golfers can take their pick from a relaxing 18 holes around the impressive John- Jacobsdesigned Hoebridge Course, a quick dose of the 9-hole Shey Copse course, or a rapid injection of short game fun around the par-3, 18-hole Maybury course. If practicing is also part of your game plan, then the centre’s 36-bay driving range, short game area, and teaching academy will also tick a few boxes, while the large pro shop, bar, restaurant, and conference facilities all add up to a complete entertainment package.

Nearby nestled in the heart of Surrey’s picturesque countryside, Sutton Green

Golf Club offers a memorable experience for golfers of all levels. Designed by former World Number 1 Dame Laura Davies and architect David Walker, the course combines strategic challenges with beautifully maintained fairways and greens.

With its welcoming atmosphere, excellent practice facilities, and a clubhouse that blends comfort with scenic views, Sutton Green is more than just a round of golf it’s a destination. Whether you’re a local player or visiting the area, this hidden gem deserves a place on your golfing itinerary.”

The same welcoming access is offered at nearby Silvermere, arguably golf’s busiest public golf facility in Surrey, if not the southeast. Conveniently located just off the thrumming A3, and a few miles from the M25, this golfing stalwart has been providing a decent parkland golf test for over 50 years, but has more recently moved into the limelight on account of its

impressive practice and coaching facilities – which include a two-tier, floodlit driving range – and its huge pro shop, which offers the widest choice of hardwear, apparel and accessories to be found anywhere in the UK. Located just outside the M25, The Drift Golf Club, near Effingham Common, has been a popular private members’ club since it opened its doors in the mid1970s. Henry Cotton had a hand in the design of the 6,447-yard parkland course, whose holes are tightly carved from the dense forest at Drift Woods. Playing to an unusual par of 73, with fairways routed as two returning nines, highlight holes include short par fours on the 4th and 6th, along with the shortest of the par threes at the 140-yard 16th.

Nearby Effingham Golf Club is also well worth a visit following some major renovations, which have seen many of the holes remodelled, new bunkers added, and some taken away. It’s also just opened a new short game area, providing an excellent place to sharpen your chipping game before you head on to the main event.

If you’re looking for somewhere play and stay in and around Croydon’s leafy suburbs, then Addington Palace Golf Club should be high on your checklist. The former residence for six Archbishops of Canterbury, the grand old manor house forms part of a hotel which also serves as a wedding venue, corporate function centre and health club. The venue’s 18-hole golf course was laid out in the grounds of the Palace’s large estate in 1931, with JH Taylor and Fred Hawtree doing some of their best work in creating a superb 6,400yard parkland course whose challenge is enhanced by numerous tiered greens, which make for some testing pin positions.

Sutton Green Golf Club est 1994 Set in the tranquil Surrey Countryside, Our 18-hole course is an impeccable par 71 6433 yard course and stands in comparison with the best, boasting mature trees, five lakes, naturally sloping contours and a state of the art irrigation system that ensures tees, fairways and greens are always in perfect condition.

Summer Golf Days FROM £48.50 Packages available Mon-Fri

Visitors are welcome to play midweek & Weekends, or why not consider our flexible pay-as-you-play Black Card Membership. Midweek membership is great value allowing unlimited play Monday to Friday.

ADDINGTON PALACE GOLF CLUB Established in 1930 and located within easy reach of Central London, our 18-hole 6,405 yard mature parkland golf course is playable all year round and presents a strong challenge for all levels of golfer. The clubhouse has two bars for pre and post round refreshment within a secluded courtyard.

Tel: 0208 654 306 Web: addingtonpalacegolf.co.uk

Reserve your golf by booking online at suttongreengc.co.uk, or contact the office admin@suttongreengc.co.uk to discuss golf days and membership.

CHIPSTEAD GOLF CLUB

WWW.SUTTONGREENGC.CO.UK

Sutton Green Golf Club, New Ln, Sutton Green, Guildford, Woking GU4 7QF

Established in 1906, Chipstead Golf Club is a fixture of the Surrey hills that for over a century has welcomed visitors with pastoral views of the surrounding country, and the familiar serenity only found between tee and fairway.

Tel: 01737 555 781 Web: chipsteadgolf.co.uk

COLUMN | SUMMER 2025 [33]

DAN BRADBURY’S

TOUR DIARY

Continuing his exclusive column for GolfNews, DP World Tour player Dan Bradbury finds that a few costly errors at the wrong time are continuing to frustrate him, but a top-10 finish at the KLM Open will hopefully kickstart a change in fortunes as the busy summer schedule gets into full swing

t’s funny how golf gives you the highest highs and the lowest lows, sometimes within the same hole. That’s just the nature of it – small margins make big differences. And that was never clearer to me than it was at the Turkish Airlines Open, my first tournament back after five weeks away from competitive action. .

Turkey was a lovely place, and we had a great week. The golf course was in immaculate condition – really well set up. There was a good mix of tough, strong par-fours and some riskreward par-fives, which I loved. But my game? It didn’t quite show up the way I wanted.

I shot one-under the first round, which wasn’t bad. The second round, though, I had morning conditions – easier than the first day’s afternoon slot – and I just didn’t take advantage of it early.

I played solid on the back nine, gave myself a lot of chances, but just couldn’t convert. And then came the final hole, which I’ll remember for a while.

We finished on the 10th hole that week due to the two-tee start. Normally a par five, it was playing as a 500-yard par four. Water all down the left, trees on the right, and water short of the green. The pin was tucked left, so missing it left was dead, and long was no good either. I hit a perfect drive and left myself 200 yards in over water into that tucked pin. I knew a par would likely make the cut. Bogey maybe still had a chance. Double, and I was definitely out.

So, I played safe — aimed for the middle of the green with a 6-iron, hit a decent shot that just caught the wrong ridge, and ended up with a 45-foot putt. I rolled it too hard, left myself seven or eight feet coming back, and missed. Bogey.

Missed the cut by one.

It’s always tough when you’re watching the cutline shift all afternoon. You’ve just got to sit and wait. But that’s the game. The two-tee starts we get every week on the DP World Tour mean that depending on your start, you might finish on a brutal hole or a gettable one. In Turkey, the 10th was a beast to finish on. Other places, like Singapore, the ninth is the tough one, and the 18th is reachable. It adds a layer of complexity, especially when you’re grinding on the cutline.

Prior to teeing it up in Turkey I had a month off the tour and spent some time back home working on my game and catching up with friends and family. I also went on a golf trip to Portugal with a few mates. Playing golf with friends definitely reminds me why I fell in love with the game in the first place. It’s different, of course. I’m still competitive – bad shots still annoy me – but I don’t second-guess myself as much. I get the number, pick the club, hit the shot. There’s no overthinking. And sometimes I wish I could take that simplicity into tournaments.

After that trip I had some sponsor commitments in London, including a round at Windlesham Golf Club in Surrey with the guys at MASHIE GOLF, which offers organised events at top venues throughout the UK. After that I managed to squeeze in a game at Royal St George’s, which was dry, firm, and breezy, but still one of the best courses I’ve ever played.

In my amateur days, everything was links golf, but funnily enough, I’ve never really had my best

I

results on links courses. I love them, and think links is the purest form of golf, but something about the greens — the subtle breaks, the flatness, the lighter grass — throws me off.

I drive it straight, pace putt well, but I struggle to read links greens sometimes.

We don’t get to play much links golf on the DP World Tour – which is perhaps no bad thing given my results on them – but I’m looking forward to the Scottish swing, with the Scottish Open at Renaissance, and especially the new tournament, the Scottish Championship, which is being held at Trump International near Aberdeen.

I’ve not played it before, but it looks like an exciting course.

With a break in the DP World Tour schedule caused by the PGA Championship, I took the opportunity to play in US Open qualifying at Walton Heath a couple of weeks ago. Walton has been good to me in the past — some of my best amateur results came there. I played solidly.

Three birdies and three bogeys over 36 holes, but that’s not enough in a qualifier. I was level-par,

■ WITH MY GRANDPARENTS, MUM, SISTER AND GIRLFRIEND AT GANTON

■ HAD A GREAT TIME WITH THE LADS AT QUINTA DO LAGO

DAN BRADBURY FACT FILE Age: 25 Lives: Wakefield, Yorkshire Turned Pro: 2022 World Ranking: 189 Race to Dubai Ranking: 30 (2024) DP World Tour Starts: 67 Wins: 2 (‘22 JoBurg Open, ‘24 Open de France) Top 10s: 8 Cuts Made: 37 Prize Money: €1.97m

but it took seven-under to make the top eight.

Sometimes, that’s the way it goes. I didn’t play badly, just not well enough.

Qualifying for The Open itself is something I’m undecided on. The R&A moved final qualifying to a Tuesday, which makes it almost impossible for tour players to manage with the travel involved. If it was still on a Monday, I’d be in. But with a Sunday finish in Italy, travel on Monday, 36 holes on Tuesday, then off to Munich for the BMW International on Wednesday — it’s just not viable. Especially not when you factor in the costs. Between flights, caddie expenses, and accommodation, you’re looking at nearly £2,000.

It’s tough to swallow when you see Open spots given to winners of obscure events in far-off places where some players have little genuine interest in The Open. Meanwhile, national champions like the Spanish or French Open winners don’t get in. I won the French Open last year and finished 30th in the DP World Tour Rankings, which would traditionally have got me

an Open spot, but now it’s just the top 25, so I still didn’t get a spot. It doesn’t feel right.

The Soudal Open in Belgium was tough.

My Thursday round was the worst I’ve had in a long time — just nothing was working. Prep was fine, but when Thursday came, I had no control, no confidence. The ball wasn’t going where I wanted it. I knew I needed something special on Friday to make the cut— six-under or better — and when I missed a few chances early, that was that.

But I didn’t give up. I still tried to take the positives – my short game was solid and my putting felt okay. After missing the cut, I had a good session with my coach. Sent some videos over, got some feedback. Turns out a few old habits had crept back into the swing.

Not ideal, but fixable.

Statistically, I usually gain off the tee and on approach. Lately, I haven’t. I’ve been hitting greens, just not close enough. Short game has improved, putting’s been okay — but not great.

Still, I know my game is close. I’ve missed seven cuts this year by one shot, including at the Austrian Alpine Open, where I finished tied 67th on level par, with those on -1 under making the cut. Those are the fine margins we’re dealing with, but the Belgium round was the first time I really wasn’t in it.

Thankfully, things turned around at the following week’s KLM Open in The Netherlands, where a top-10 finish has provided me a bit of positive momentum. I got off to a really good start, holing a few early putts to go three under after eight holes, but I gave all those shots back around the turn, and then kind of hung in there to be one-over for the first round. It was pretty windy for the second round – gusting 40mph ¬– and it was just a case of limiting the damage and hoping everyone else was finding scoring as tough as I was. Thankfully that proved the case and my +3 total for 36 holes was two shots inside the cut mark. I played pretty solidly over the weekend, shooting 71 on Saturday and then fired a 66 on Sunday to move 40 spots up the leaderboard on the final day into a share of seventh. They were tough scoring conditions, so I’m proud of how I dug deep over the those closing holes and got the best possible result out of what was a difficult week.

With so many tournaments in Europe over such a short period of time, I decided to drive my own car between events, rather than flying back and forth. It’s been a 3,000-mile-plus road trip through some amazing countryside and I really enjoyed having my feet on ground. Compared to flying – packing bags, checking clubs, airport stress – driving’s a dream.

Right now, I’m having a couple of weeks off before playing the Italian Open, the BMW International in Germany, and the Scottish Open. It’s a busy stretch, but they’re all relatively close together, so there’s less travel stress and hopefully they’ll bring some better results.

[34] SUMMER 2025 | FEATURE GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

T H E G R E AT E S T 3 6 H O L E S : THE NEW COURSE IS COMING The hotly anticipated new championship links, set to open this summer at Trump International Golf Links, Scotland in Aberdeenshire, has golfers from around the globe poised to play.

panning hundreds of acres of beautiful, rugged coastal terrain, the new course boasts panoramic North Sea views and awe-inspiring golf holes.

Constructed to the highest specifications and standards, the new eighteenhole track weaves together three distinct topographical areas – expansive wetlands, heather-clad heathland and sand dunes on an epic scale.

With devilish sandy-scrapes and meandering ancient burns to jaw-dropping sand domes with elevated tees atop windswept golden dunes, golfers will be enticed over pristine playing surfaces on a journey that rises and falls within this majestic coastal dunes-scape that is laden with breathtaking moments.

Featuring the world’s largest natural bunker, cavernous sandy hollows, mountainous sand peaks and infinity greens perched along the coastal dunes, the New Course, as it will be known, promises to take golfers to new heights of challenge and exhilaration.

Building on the triumphant success of the existing multi-award-winning eighteen-hole links which entered the world of golf some thirteen years ago to international applause, this latest addition to the Trump portfolio is testament to the family’s unwavering commitment to investing in the great game of golf.

Behind the scenes, a world-class group of distinguished architects, engineers, environmentalists and industry specialists have been commissioned to bring the project to life. Many key members of the design and development team worked on the first course and brought a wealth of industry knowledge and know-how to this latest phase of development. Esteemed links golf architect, Dr Martin Hawtree has maintained a role as master architect, working alongside a team of

specialists including Swedish golf architect, Christian Lundin and Canadian golf architect, Christine Fraser.

At the heart of the design and construction methodology is the protection and enhancement of the land’s natural features. The outstanding ecological and geomorphological attributes of the site have been preserved and play an integral part in the overall design success. An innovative environmentally friendly freshwater and drainage system has been engineered to provide long-term sustainable

S

THE NEW COURSE FEATURES THE WORLD’S LARGEST NATURAL

irrigation for all thirty-six holes, utilizing the wetlands, ponds and water collected from across the site.

More than one million sprigs of native marram grass have been planted, and six tons of marram seeds were cultivated across the new course. Over ten hectares of natural vegetation has been successfully translocated allowing indigenous plant habitats to thrive and expand, with many new wildlife habitats emerging within the new wetlands and dune-slack areas.

Both courses have become exemplars for the successful translocation of indigenous grasses, native vegetation and habitat, resulting in two world-class links courses that blend effortlessly into the landscape.

Designed to complement the existing golf course to form what is being hailed, The Greatest 36 Holes in Golf, this visionary golf resort brings together extremely rare components – incredible land, great vision, endless talent and unlimited resources.

This golf property has the X factor!

PHOTOS: JACOB SJÖMAN

For more information or to book a tee time: Tel: +44 (0)1358 743300 Email: bookings@trumpgolfscotland.com www.trumpgolfscotland.com

■ A DRAMATIC NEW CHAPTER AT TRUMP INTERNATIONAL IS SET TO DEBUT ALONG THE NORTH SEA THIS SUMMER

Equipment & gear SUMMER 2025 | WWW.GOLFNEWS.CO.UK/EQUIPMENT

PRO SHOP

SIZZLE ON THE COURSE THIS SUMMER

ARE FRIENDS ELECTRIC THE CONTINUED SUCCESS OF MOTOCADDY

ZERO TORQUE PUTTERS

PUTTERS SO STEADY, IT’S ALMOST CHEATING

MIZUNO ON THE MOVE

GOLF NEWS HOPS ABOARD GOLF’S COOLEST TOUR TRUCK

TRIED & TESTED

PING G440 LST DRIVER TITLEIST BALL FITTING APP

ELEVATE YOUR GAME Discover Silvermere’s new Elevated store where cu ing-edge golf fashion meets premium retail experience

[36] SUMMER 2025 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

EQUIPMENT NEWS PING G440 LST DRIVER

by Dan Owen

Reviews normally finish with the verdict.

I’m starting with mine: go and try this driver, or one of its sibling models, now!

This driver, for me, is significantly better than anything else I’ve tested this year.

Now let’s go back to the start.

PING has become known for creating drivers that are incredibly easy to hit.

I had great results using the G430 10K last year. I could hit it anywhere on the face and get good results. Spin wasn’t overly high, and it felt good. But it wasn’t perfect. The head was oversized and looked very busy, with all the recesses on the crown, and it didn’t have any moveable weights. The G440 LST solves every one of those issues.

The compact head (450cc) looks much more manageable behind the ball. Other than the turbulators, the crown is now

smooth with a two-tone finish. Older PING drivers could be a bit clangy, but these new carbon crown models feel so solid and balanced. And while it’s not the lowest-spinning low spin driver, the spin is very consistent, so drives are highly repeatable.

On the launch monitor, there are other drivers I might be able to hit five, even ten yards further. But I’ve never hit a driver that consistently puts me in the fairway like the G440 LST does. I’m not playing good golf currently. I’ve got no real feel for my swing. Despite that, the majority of my drives are down the centre of the fairway.

I’ve made a couple of really bad strikes out of the toe recently, and in the past, that would often result in a duck hook.

With PING’s Spinsistency design built into

OGIO ADDS THE FUNDAY STAND BAG It’s that time of year when we’re able to squeeze in nine holes after work, and we don’t necessarily need a full set to do it. OGIO has launched its first Sunday bag for this very reason. And it’s a doozy.

Let’s start with the colourways: Classic Black (boring), the green, white and yellow ‘Magnolia’ (cool but safe), the vibrant ‘Tropical Punch’ (bonkers, in a good way), and the military-inspired ‘Wave Camo’ (who doesn’t love camo and orange?). Some models feature a very cool dip-dyed divider top – something I’ve never seen before – which means every bag is unique.

The OGIO Funday Stand Bag weighs just 3lbs – about the same as a bag of oranges! Removable modular pockets allow for customisation, with a full-length Velcro strip for endless placement options.

Built with ultra-lightweight stand legs, a foam-moulded shoulder strap, and a hip pad, the bag is designed for easy carrying. Made from durable, lightweight recycled materials, it’s also logo-ready for personalisation. £144 | eu.ogio.com

TRIED & TESTED the toe, those hooks turn into mostly straight drives. I really have to be trying to hit the ball hard to miss the fairway by any distance.

I know there isn’t one driver for every player. And while this is the best-looking

PING driver in years, there are betterlooking drivers on the market. But none of them help me hit fairways as well as the G440 LST. £575 | Ping.com

MACGREGOR UNVEILS NEW MT-86 IRONS: A MODERN TAKE ON A CLASSIC MacGregor is one of the game’s true iconic brands, forever linked to Jack Nicklaus’s golden era. Back in the day, they produced some of the best-looking irons ever made. Now they’re bringing back a name from the past, creating a modern take on the iconic Major-winning MT irons from the 1960s. The new MT-86 Pro and MT-86 OS irons pay homage to the originals while integrating cutting-edge technology for enhanced performance across a wider range of golfers.

The MT-86 OS irons are designed for maximum forgiveness and explosive distance. Featuring an oversized head for higher MOI and a larger sweet spot, these irons offer slight offset to combat slices.

The heads are forged from a carbon steel body fused with a 2mm-thick maraging steel face, creating explosive impact. A power slot behind the face maximises consistency on mishits.

Inside, a proprietary soft polymer foam delivers MacGregor’s signature buttery feel and improved acoustics. Five-gram tungsten weights in the toe progressively lower and deepen the centre of gravity, boosting MOI for high, long, and straight off-centre strikes. A standard 5–PW set retails at £449.99, with a 4-iron available at additional cost.

For precision and power, the MT-86 Pro irons share the same forged construction, explosive face, and foam-filled head as the OS model. This muscleback design offers exceptional workability with surprising forgiveness for off-centre strikes, boasting a clean topline and elegant profile. The 5–PW set is also priced at £449.99.

A combo set combining the forgiving long irons with the Pro short irons is available for £749.99. These irons really combine vintage looks with modern performance like nothing else on the market.

Macgregor-golf.com

FEATURE | SUMMER 2025 [37] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

ELEVATED AT SILVERMERE R A I S E YO U R G A M E AT T H E U K ’ S N E W E S T & M O S T FA S H I O N A B L E G O L F R E TA I L S T O R E The opening of a new highend apparel and accessories store at SILVERMERE GOLF COMPLEX has served to further raise the bar at one the UK’s most popular golf and retail destinations

here can’t be many golfers in the south-east of England who have yet to experience the pleasure of a day out at Silvermere in Surrey.

Whether it’s to play the Cobham venue’s challenging 18-hole parkland course, with its renowned watery finish; to hit some balls on its impressive two-tier driving range; have a lesson or a custom fitting with one of its sizeable team of PGA Professionals; or to splash out on a new set of clubs or the latest accessories from the country’s largest independently-owned golf retail store.

Some even come just to have lunch at the complex’s renowned Inn on the Lake, where good food and plenty of golf-watching entertainment are served up in equal measure.

A mecca for serious golfers since the 1970s, Silvermere has carved out a well-earned reputation as being destination that goes beyond your typical golf club. But now, Silvermere is making headlines for something new – not with a course renovation or a new bit of driving range technology – but with a retail experience that takes golf fashion to another level entirely.

This spring saw the opening of Elevated at Silvermere, a 1,600-square-foot retail space perched on the top level of the driving range which is dedicated to showcasing premium, limited, and highly-sought after golf brands. The concept here is clear: this isn’t your everyday pro shop. Elevated is a meticulously curated space designed to bring the world’s most stylish, high-quality golf brands to the hands – and wardrobes – of discerning players.

Step into Elevated and you’ll find a wide range of golf’s most fashion-forward and exclusive labels: Manors, Malbon, Macade, Greyson, Jones, G/Fore, Stitch, Sounder, Vessel, Peter Millar, True, adidas Originals and Oakley, to name just a few.

From cutting-edge technical gear to lifestyleinspired leisurewear, Elevated sells kit that isn’t typically stocked by maintstream golf retailers.

Some lines are limited runs or direct from emerging labels in the US and Europe. That means when you walk out of Elevated, you’re not just carrying a new outfit – you’re wearing something that very few others in the country own.

Today’s golfers want to express their individuality through their equipment, clothing and accessories and Elevated taps directly into this movement. Whether it’s a tailored jacket from Greyson, a handcrafted golf bag from Jones, a bespoke tweed headcover from Fyfe Golf, or a pair of G/Fore shoes in a limitededition colourway, every item has been carefully selected to appeal to golfers who put as much thought into what they wear as they do for the clubs they play with.

T

■ ELEVATED OFFERS PREMIUM PRODUCTS FROM HARD-TO-FIND BRANDS, WITH SEASONAL DROPS ENSURING THERE ARE ALWAYS NEW LINES IN STORE

“We wanted to create something truly different,” says Terry Sims, Managing Director at Silvermere. “The collections at Elevated are all hand-picked and available in limited quantities, ensuring that what you wear and carry is as unique as your game.”

With a layout more reminiscent of a high-end fashion boutique than a traditional pro shop, the store was purpose-built to both inspire and educate, with colours and products laid out to offer ideas for potential outfits that could work well together. The interior design is sleek and contemporary, with soft lighting, minimalist fixtures, and uncluttered rails creating a sense of calm luxury - a world away from the frustrating retail experience offered by many pro shops.

But Elevated isn’t just about premium products; it’s about the full retail experience.

Knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide personal consultations and styling advice, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a bespoke tailoring session than merely grabbing a polo shirt off the rack and heading for the till.

And it’s an experience that has certainly proved successful with golfers, with Sims reporting brisk trade at Elevated since its opening just over two months ago, with customers travelling from near and far to check out the new stock.

“The feedback from customers has been phenomenal,” Sims says. “It reminded me of when I opened the Left Handed Golf store 21 years ago. It’s new, it’s bold, and it changes the conversation around golf retail.”

The team at Silvermere isn’t resting on its laurels. Sims hints at more to come, with plans to expand the range of brands and bring in even more exclusive offerings. “We’re always on the lookout for niche, hard-to-find labels from the UK, the US, and Europe,” he says. “The goal is to make Elevated the go-to destination for golf lifestyle.”

With the opening of Elevated, Silvermere has set a new standard for what golf retail can be: immersive, curated, stylish and desirable. It’s a bold move, but one that fits perfectly with where the game – and its players – are headed.

So, whether you’re a seasoned golfer, a fashionforward newcomer, or simply someone who appreciates craftsmanship and quality, it’s high time you paid a trip to Elevated and see how far you can raise your game.

Elevated at Silvermere is open 9.30am-7pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 10-8pm on Thursday, 9am-6pm on Saturday and 9am-5pm on Sunday.

For more information, visit www.silvermeregolfstore.com/ about-us/elevated

[38] SUMMER 2025 | EQUIPMENT GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

THE

ELECTRIC TROLLEY T H AT

CHANGED GOLF How the Motocaddy S1 helped shape the brand – and redefined an entire category

I

n the world of golf equipment, few innovations have had as significant and enduring an impact as the Motocaddy S1. Into its 20th year, the S1 wasn’t merely Motocaddy’s first S-Series electric trolley – it marked the start of a new era for the brand and the broader electric trolley market. Now, two decades on, its legacy remains a benchmark in both design a nd performance.

With over 350,000 units sold globally, the S1 stands as the best-selling electric trolley of all time. Now in its tenth generation, it continues to set the standard – but its importance goes way beyond sales figures. The S1 has not only helped shape Motocaddy’s identity; it has also been instrumental in defining what golfers expect from a modern electric trolley.

Fittingly, the Motocaddy logo itself is derived from the silhouette of the original S-Series frame, reflecting the deep-rooted influence the S1 has had within the company and its product range.

“The S1 has been the cornerstone of our range since the original launch two decades ago, and we are immensely proud that we pioneered the world’s best-selling electric trolley,” said Motocaddy CEO, John Helas.

“While our designs, features and technologies have evolved over time to reflect modern trends, our commitment to industry-leading reliability and exceptional build quality has never wavered,” he added.

THE BEGINNING OF A REVOLUTION At the time of its first release, the S1 entered a market dominated by heavier, bulkier trolleys.

Motocaddy’s innovation lay in creating a

■ BELOW: THE S1 DHC & PRO-SERIES BAG

product that was lighter, easier-to-use, reliable and aesthetically clean – complete with a simple control interface, which is now the iconic ambidextrous T-bar handle. Prior to this, ‘L’ shaped handles had been the norm.

Pioneering innovations that are now staples of electric trolley models began with the S1.

The brand’s revolutionary EASILOCK system and the QUIKFOLD mechanism were successfully

introduced, along with having a USB charging port on the handle. Once again, Motocaddy led where others would eventually follow.

Fast forward 20 years, and the current iteration of the S1 has undergone a significant redesign. Featuring a sleeker chassis and refined modern styling, the 2025 model aligns with the cutting-edge M-Series compactfolding trolleys introduced last year. Developed in-house by Motocaddy’s engineering team using Virtual Reality, rapid prototyping, and AI technology, the new S1 showcases a more automotive-inspired aesthetic alongside enhanced functionality.

Upgrades include newly styled ergonomic handle grips, a streamlined chassis, and low-profile aerodynamic wheels with highperformance tyre tread.

THE FOUNDATION OF A GLOBAL BRAND The S1 wasn’t just a hit – it was a foundation. Its success propelled Motocaddy into the spotlight and enabled the company to grow rapidly, expanding its range and investing in research and development. Over the years, the S1 served as a platform for innovation, regularly updated with improvements in battery technology, digital interfaces, and on-course performance.

Crucially, it also cemented Motocaddy’s reputation for reliability. While competitors battled quality-control issues or overcomplicated designs, the S1 remained dependable. That trust built fierce customer loyalty and played a central role in Motocaddy becoming the world’s bestselling electric trolley brand.

EQUIPMENT | SUMMER 2025 [39] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

INNOVATIONS Over the 20 years since the S1 was first introduced, Motocaddy has pioneered many of the features that you see as standard on electric trolleys today. These include:

2007

Features are taken to the next level as the S3 Digital model includes a digital control panel with speedometer and distance readings – the first electric trolley to use a digital rather than analogue platform

■ ABOVE: THE S1 COULDN’T BE EASIER TO USE

2011/12

ONCE AGAIN,

Leading the change to a more sustainable battery, Motocaddy adds high-quality LitePower Lithium as an after-market replacement battery to broaden its reach to a wider audience and is the first company to offer a 5-year warranty on its Lithium batteries, assuring golfers of the unrivalled reliability

MOTOCADDY LED WHERE OTHERS WOULD EVENTUALLY FOLLOW. RAISING THE BAR IN 2025 Advancing two decades, the latest 2025 S1 is now powered by an advanced 28V highperformance system and boasts a sleek LCD widescreen display with nine speed settings, a speed indicator, and a battery meter for enhanced control and visibility. The Adjustable Distance Control function allows golfers to pre-set distances of up to 45 yards, perfect for sending the trolley down the fairway, while the innovative CLICK ‘N’ CONNECT® cable-free battery system automatically switches off the trolley when folded, with an integrated pop-up charging port for maximum convenience.

Additional features include a USB charging port for powering devices on the go, a lightweight Lithium battery for enhanced portability, and space-saving inverting wheels to optimise storage efficiency. With its combination of great features and user-friendly design, the latest S1 sets a new standard in electric trolley performance.

Helas reflects on where the electric trolley market has come and what the future holds: “As the electric trolley market continues to evolve with integrations such as GPS tracking, app connectivity and the rapid popularity growth of remote control models, it’s remarkable to reflect on how dramatically the category has transformed over the past two decades from a product mostly used by older golfers, to one that now appeals to all ages and abilities.

“We’ve seen a functional product designed to transport your clubs change into a stylish companion guaranteed to shave strokes off your handicap, and the S1 has played a defining role within this transformation.

“For Motocaddy, the S1 isn’t just a product; it’s a symbol of consistency, innovation and market leadership. And as it celebrates 20 years of success, the S1 stands not only as a bestseller, but as a true icon of modern golf.”

For further information visit www.motocaddy.com

■ ORIGINAL 2006 MOTOCADDY S1

2013 2014

The ground-breaking EASILOCK® bag-totrolley connection system is launched and is featured on all Motocaddy trolleys and bags

The M1 PRO is launched as the world’s first mass-market compact folding model. It helps to create a new ‘compact’ category and very quickly gained significant market share

2016

Single-motored Downhill Control (DHC) models launched, which also included an electronic parking brake as an industry first. The new technology revolutionises performance, and popularity hits a new high

2017

The world’s first GPS trolley - the S5 CONNECT - hits the market, synching with the new Motocaddy GPS mobile app to provide key GPS information and smartphone notifications directly to the trolley display. The Motocaddy Defibrillator Database is launched, displaying AED locations for more than 700 UK golf courses, plus CPR instructions within the mobile app

2018

The M5 CONNECT is launched, making it the first compact GPS model, while the CUBE CONNECT becomes the world’s only ‘Smart’ push cart

2020

The world’s first touchscreen electric trolley, the M5 GPS, is launched, offering fully-integrated GPS and a super-responsive 3.5” display. Boasting 40,000 preloaded courses with pinpoint accuracy

2023

The world’s first remote-controlled electric trolley with touchscreen GPS is launched. The M7 GPS REMOTE offers golfers the ‘Ultimate Caddy’ experience by blending responsive control with performance-enhancing features

2024

Motocaddy’s in-house product design team develops the sleek new M-Series compact range using Virtual Reality and rapid-prototyping, alongside AI technologies

2025

The 10th generation S1 is launched to continue an iconic legacy. To further expand the booming remote category, the entry-level ME REMOTE is added to the Motocaddy remote-control range, which also includes all-new iterations of the M7 GPS REMOTE and M7 REMOTE

[40] SUMMER 2025 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

ORIGINAL PENGUIN CELEBRATES 70 YEARS OF ICONIC STYLE Original Penguin is celebrating its 70th anniversary with a special collection that pays homage to its enduring legacy and the iconic polo shirt that has defined effortless American style for generations.

Since its 1955 debut by Munsingwear, the Original Penguin polo quickly became a wardrobe staple for athletes and entertainers alike. Golf legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Chi Chi Rodriguez, alongside cultural icons like Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby, famously sported the brand, solidifying Pete the Penguin as a symbol of cool confidence.

“Seventy years ago, we introduced a shirt that changed the game,” said Oscar Feldenkreis, CEO of Perry Ellis International. “This curated collection is a celebration of that legacy – a homage to the players, the entertainers, and the everyday men who made Pete the Penguin an icon.”

TRIED & TESTED

TITLEIST BALL FITTING APP

by Dan Owen

The 70th Anniversary Collection reimagines classic mid-century styles with a modern twist, drawing inspiration from the rich Munsingwear archives. Key pieces include Pete’s Earl Polo – a modern take on the original – the Short Sleeve Heritage Sweater Polo, and the Technical Earl Polo, blending performance with timeless design.

ADIDAS REINTRODUCES ICONIC TREFOIL TO GOLF WITH ORIGINALS GOLF RANGE Adidas has brought back the iconic Trefoil to golf. The adidas Originals Golf line covers apparel, footwear and accessories. Available now, it combines streetwear trends and modern design with adidas’s heritage.

Inspired by designs from adidas’s past, the Originals Golf range features intricately designed pieces focusing on subtle details. The initial drop showcases a colour palette of blues, whites, greens and yellows.

Key apparel includes knit and solid polos, pleated and plaid trousers, and layering pieces like quarter-zip tops and full-zip jackets. For women, the range offers printed and solid polos, pleated skorts, cashmere knit sweaters and sleeveless dresses.

In footwear, adidas introduces the COURSECUP, inspired by the 1986 GOLD CUP golf shoe, and the Gazelle Golf, adapted from the classic silhouette. Updates to Stan Smith Golf and Samba Golf are also included.

The standout of the first range though to us aren’t the obvious apparel or footwearm but the stand bags. The iconic blue and white stand bag is a stone-cold classic. The accessories range includes hats, socks, belts, a leather glove, headcovers, towels, and a Boston bag.

Originals Golf is available on adidas.com, the adidas app, and at select retailers.

Other additions like the 1/4 Zip Lightweight Pullover and updated Flat Front Earl Pant ensure versatility for contemporary lifestyles.

Original Penguin is one of the most fun brands in the game, but this limited-edition collection really taps into that Rat Pack cool, with interesting fabric choices and simple but unexpected colour blocking.

I’ve been playing for more than 30 years, and I still find it tricky to know exactly which ball suits my game best. There are just so many variables – spin, launch, feel, distance. Most of us end up relying on educated guesswork or the opinions of others.

That’s why I was intrigued to try Titleist’s new ball fitting app, which is currently available to retailers using TrackMan. The process couldn’t be simpler. The app requires you to hit just 12 shots: three half wedges, three full wedges, three 7-irons and three drives. If you hit a bad one, you can scrub it – so you know the data is truly representative of your game. The whole thing takes no more than 15 minutes from start to finish.

Before I knew it, I’d hit my shots and the app had analysed my numbers. It told me exactly which golf ball best suited my game. For me, it was the Pro V1, with a 48% match. I was also shown my ideal launch and spin figures with the irons, which helped me better understand how the recommendation had been made.

One thing that stood out: the app gave the AVX, a ball that’s been recommended to me before for its low-spin characteristics, just a 1% fit for my game.

That really drove home how much guesswork has been involved in my past ball choices, and how powerful this kind of tool can be for taking the mystery out of the equation.

It’s a genuine game-changer. Fast, easy, insightful. This summer, I’ll be teeing it up with a ball I know is right for me, not just one I’ve assumed fits based on feel or guesswork.

EQUIPMENT | SUMMER 2025 [41] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

MIZUNO’S GAME-CHANGER HITS THE ROAD WITH NEW DP WORLD TOUR TRUCK Mizuno recently unveiled its brand-new DP World Tour Truck at Bearwood Lakes Golf Club in Berkshire, with Golf News in attendance to cover the launch izuno’s cutting-edge, custom-built mobile unit represents a major leap in the brand’s dedication to supporting its tour professionals and enhancing its visibility on the pro golf circuit.

Mizuno’s own recent DP World tour winner Marco Penge was on hand to open the new tour truck at the Berkshire venue, where he also treated guests to a golf clinic.

Replacing the previous model after 15 years of service, the new vehicle has been completely reimagined to meet the evolving needs of today’s game – delivering more space, more functionality, and a more immersive brand experience.

The introduction of the new Tour Truck represents a pivotal step in Mizuno’s broader growth strategy, both in the immediate and long-term future.

While its primary role is to deliver bestin-class support to tour staff, the vehicle will also serve as a powerful tool for engaging retail partners.

Building on the recent expansion of Mizuno’s custom fitting network— bolstered by the addition of dedicated

m

WHAT’S IN MARCO’S BAG? DRIVER: Mizuno ST-X 230, TENSEI White 1k 70TX, ST-MAX FAIRWAY, 15, TOUR AD VF 8X, 43 MC WHITE IRONS: MIZUNO PRO S-3, 4-PW, KBS V10 130X, 2 IRON, MIZUNO PRO FLi-Hi, Ventus Black 10TX, DG TI X 1

Golf Technical Representatives (GTRs) – the truck will take centre stage at an increased number of ‘Tour Experience Days’, giving retailers the opportunity to offer their customers a true tour-level custom fitting service.

Though purpose-built for the DP World Tour, the truck’s use will extend well beyond. It will play a key role at R&A events, LET tournaments, and various feeder tours—underpinning Mizuno’s commitment to emerging talent through its “Young Lions” strategy.

It will also have a presence at selected events across EMEA in other sporting disciplines, acting as a versatile brand ambassador for categories such as running and beyond reinforcing that this is not just a golf investment, but a broader brand initiative.

Although the previous truck is being retired from the road, it will still play a part in Mizuno’s development.

It will take on a new role as a permanent fixture at Mizuno’s EMEA Tour base at Bearwood Lakes Golf Club.

Echoing the concept behind “The Foundry” in the US, the site will offer a premium Mizuno experience, becoming a hub for fitting, service, and brand interaction.

It will also enable the tour team to service players while the lead truck is in transit, ensuring continuous support regardless of location.

Measuring 17.5 metres in length and expanding to nearly 5 metres in width when deployed, the truck offers a total of three dedicated zones, each tailored to a specific operational purpose.

The heart of the operation lies in the 23-square-metre workshop—a significantly enlarged space designed to allow multiple club technicians to work simultaneously without obstruction.

Every Mizuno staff player’s preferred shafts, grips and heads are now carried

onboard, ensuring that equipment can be adjusted, rebuilt, or customised on-site with speed and precision. A new laser engraving machine brings wedge personalisation and bespoke putter sight-lines directly into the truck, providing services that were previously only possible off-site.

■ MARCO GIVING A MASTERCLASS AT BEARWOOD LAKES

Alongside the workshop is the 13.5-square-metre player service area, a welcoming and highly functional space where tour staff can collect their weekly allocation of hats, gloves, balls, towels, and other essentials from dedicated pigeonholes.

■ THE TOUR TRUCK IS DESIGNED TO DELIVER AN EXCEPTIONAL LEVEL OF SERVICE TO ITS STAFF PLAYERS AND THE TEAM OF EXPERT FITTERS

DP WORLD TOUR WINNER MARCO PENGE TALKS MIZUNO I love my Mizuno clubs, I’ve currently got a driver and irons deal, before I moved to Mizuno I did test elsewhere, and Mizuno were the best by far.

The first Mizuno clubs I’ve had were the Mizuno Pro 241 and they were great.

My ambition is to play on the PGA Tour and play against the best every week, the courses will suit the length I get on the tee with my Mizuno driver. I loved Quail Hollow at PGA Championship in May, the course suited my eye and managed to hit the longest drive of the tournament at 390 yards.

When I grew up, I was a junior member at several different courses, Dyke and Worthing (Downland), Prince’s (Links) and Mannings Heath (Parkland) so I’m very comfortable playing on every surface and my clubs help me with that.

It’s great having Luke Donald as a stablemate, his ball striking over the years has been so pure, I’m due to play with him soon and he often keeps in touch.

I’m into small gains and having the new Tour Truck will be another step in helping meclimb up the rankings and hopefully win more tournaments, the guys on the truck are brilliant, I’m not at tinkerer myself, but the guys know my swing and get the absolute best out of my equipment.

I’m so grateful to Mizuno, they showed a lot of love, from when I joined the team after my career threating knee surgery a few years ago, I hope we can go on and win a couple more tournaments this year and make a late run for the Ryder Cup…I know the captain.

[42] SUMMER 2025 | PRO SHOP GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

PRO SHOP Your guide to the latest gear Equipment editor Dan Owen casts his expert eye over the latest equipment launches

PROTO CONCEPT RR WEDGES £325, PROTOCONCEPTGOLF.COM

If you love Japanese forged wedges these might be right up your street. This softforged design delivers just that, with three advanced sole grinds to suit any shortgame style. Laser-milled grooves enhance spin, even in wet conditions, while precision forging ensures solid impact feel and consistent performance from any lie or distance.

SHOT SCOPE G6 GPS WATCH £179.99, SHOTSCOPE.COM

CALLAWAY ELYTE TI FAIRWAY £459, EU.CALLAWAYGOLF.COM

The Callaway Elyte fairway woods combine a Tungsten Speed Wave and Step Sole for explosive ball speeds and smooth turf interaction.

Featuring AI-designed faces with ten times more control points, they offer exceptional forgiveness, tighter dispersion, and optimized launch.

The Elyte Ti model adds adjustable weights for spin and forgiveness control.

SUN MOUNTAIN MATCHPLAY 4-WAY STAND BAG £379, BRANDFUSION.CO.UK

We love the current style direction of golf bags. Big logos are out. Retro vinyl as in, as golfers want to look more put together on course and not like a walking billboard. Despite the simplicity of the design, this bag is still fully featured with nine pockets, an integrated compression bottom for trolley, full-length dividers, and a comfortable strap system.

I’ve never been a huge fan of GPS watches, but I keep wearing this one for it’s combination of comfort and ease of use. The Shot Scope G6 GPS watch delivers just that—preloaded with 36,000 courses, full hole maps, front/middle/back yardages, and a built-in scorecard.

Lightweight, customisable and fuss-free, it’s the perfect tool for golfers who want simple, accurate data straight from their wrist.

BEN HOGAN FORT WORTH COMBO IRONS £899, 5-PW BENHOGANGOLF.CO.UK

For golfers who shape shots but want forgiveness, the Fort Worth irons deliver. A ceremic core shifts weight to the perimeter for forgiveness while the CB/MB designs optimise launch and control. The V-SOLE improves turf interaction, even from tough lies. These irons look as good at address as any iron on the market currently while keeping true to the Ben Hogan tradition.

PRO SHOP | SUMMER 2025 [43] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

GFORE MG4+ O2 G/LOCK GOLF SHOE £185, GFORE.CO.UK

G/FORE golf shoes have become one of the standout choices for golfers looking for comfort and looks. The MG4+ O2 offersSoftspike traction, a waterproof TPU upper and a responsive midsole for stability and grip.

A massaging insole and odour-fighting foam complete a sleek, lockedin design that’s built to keep you grounded and focused.And these are available in a huge array of colours.

TAYLORMADE P790 IRONS £179, PER IRON TAYLORMADEGOLF.CO.UK

The P790 from TaylorMade is a legendary iron that continues to improve with each iteration. The new P790 features a stronger 4340M forged face for faster ball speeds and SpeedFoam Air for a soft explosive feel. The 24% larger sweet spot works in conjunctions aith an improved centee of gravity across each iron for better launch and spin. All this yet they have still been able to introduce a thinner topline and refined the sole to improve turf interaction.

TITLEIST GT280 MINI DRIVER £459, TITLEIST.CO.UK

The Titleist GT280 mini driver blends power, playability and adjustability in a compact head. Created using the same technology as their hugely successful GT driver, it offers a versatile option off the tee or turf. That makes it perfect for bridging the gap at the top of the bag.

MILESSEY PF260 TOUR RANGE FINDER £169 MILESEEYGOLF.COM

The MILESEEY PF260 Tour delivers tour-level tech without the tour-level price. Clear optics, fast flag-lock, slope mode, and dual power options in a sleek, affordable design. It’s accurate, easy to use, and built to boost confidence on every shot, no matter your skill level.

MIZUNO T1 WEDGES £190, MIZUNOGOLF.COM

Mizuno are famed for their forged irons, but they also make a mean forged wedge. The Mizuno T-1 wedges deliver with Quad Cut + Grooves and Hydroflow tech for consistent spin in all conditions. Forged from soft carbon steel with a copper underlay, their compact teardrop shape offers sharp looks and smooth turf interaction.

PING SCOTTSDALE CRAZ-E £250, PING.COM

The man on the motorbike is back! This classic easy to align design returns as part of the Scottsdale range, blending forgiveness and feel, by utilising a lightweight PEBAX insert that boosts MOI for stability and feedback. With SuperStroke grips as standard, these are fantastic value considering how expensive putters have become in recent yearts.

[44] SUMMER 2025 | SHOWCASE GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

ZERO TORQUE PUTTERS

Zero Torque is all the range this year as golfers look for that edge on the greens. Here are 8 of this years hottest putters to help you hole more putts.

SHOWCASE | SUMMER 2025 [45] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

EVNROLL ZERO Z5S £449 · EVNROLL.COM

Proof there is more than one way to skin a cat, Evnroll have created a zero torque putter by essentially reversing a plumber’s neck hosel, putting the face in front of the neck. While still unusual looking, there’s definitely more familiarity at address. But the biggest advantage with Evnroll putters is their SweetFace technology, which provides a soft feel and, more importantly, consistent distance control wherever the ball is struck on the face.

SINK ANCHOR ACE

BREAKTHROUGH GOLF TECHNOLOGY PARADOX

SINK is making some of the most beautiful custom putters in golf. Now they’ve added the Anchor line of Zero Torque putters. Possibly the cleanest execution we’ve seen in the category, at first glance they look like traditional milled putters— but the clever, neat way the shaft enters the top line of the head gives the game away. And we love that these putters are milled in West Sussex from British 303 stainless steel.

BGT is the company that started the graphite putter shaft trend, but this is their first putter.

While the Paradox is a zero torque model, BGT have added what they call Swing Balance Technology. By aligning the principal axis of inertia with the golfer’s putting stroke, the face stays square throughout. The high-toe weighting and low-heel steel weights help keep the putter on track at all times.

£369 · SINKGOLF.CO.UK

£499 · BREAKTHROUGHGOLFTECH.COM

ODYSSEY AI-1 SQUARE 2 SQUARE MAX 1

PXG BAT ATTACK ZT £429 · PXG.CO.UK

£369 · ODYSSEYEU.CALLAWAYGOLF.COM

PXG’s second Zero Torque putter, the Bat Attack ZT, features one of the most popular putter shapes in golf. Fanged mallets have been in vogue for years, and PXG understand the shape better than most. PXG’s unique S-Hosel aligns the shaft axis just above the putter’s centre of gravity (CG), creating a toeup balance point that resists twisting throughout the stroke.

Odyssey have added the MAX 1 and MAX 1 Stripe to their Square 2 Square line—and it definitely reminds us of some other popular zero torque putters. This is Odyssey’s most stable S2S model, with an extreme MOI over 6000. Featuring the Ai-ONE insert with an aluminium backer and White Hot urethane face, it’s designed to deliver more consistent ball speed across the face.

TAYLORMADE SPIDER ZT £449 · TAYLORMADEGOLF.CO.UK

TaylorMade have bided their time to release a model featuring Zero Torque technology that remains true to the Spider design philosophy. Spider ZT putters feature a 100% milled multi-material construction, with highdensity 303 stainless steel in the face and low-density 6061 aluminium in the back. The Spider ZT features True Path alignment, with evenly spaced milled lines on the top of the 303 stainless steel face, or the width of a golf ball. And to ensure a smooth roll, TaylorMade have stuck with their proven Pure Roll insert.

L.A.B. GOLF OZ.1I

BETTINARDI ANTIDOTE SB1

The OZ.1 was developed with Adam Scott, helping shape the half-moon design for a clean, modern look offering balance and stability. The OZ.1i features an aluminium body with a fly-milled stainless steel insert for a firmer feel and faster ball speeds. Where L.A.B. goes above and beyond anyone else in the market is in its customisation options. Golfers can tweak head weight, lie angle, shaft, grip, alignment markings, and more.

Designed to stay square throughout the stroke, the Antidote putters combine modern zero-torque performance with Bettinardi’s signature precision-milled feel. Finished in a striking Diamond Blast and Sapphire Blue, the Antidote Series features Bettinardi’s Tourwinning F.I.T. Face technology for a soft yet responsive feel. The SB1 is a more traditional blade that will appeal to golfers looking for help while retaining a classic look.

FROM £499 · LABGOLF.COM

£439 · BETTINARDI.CO.UK

[46] SUMMER 2025 | NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

PING LAUNCHES NEW LIGHTWEIGHT CARRY BAG INNOVATIONS

NEW BALANCE GOLF UNVEILS STRIKING SS25 GOLF SHOE COLLECTION New Balance Golf has unveiled its striking SS25 golf shoe collection, featuring a range of distinctive sporty designs for men and women golfers seeking ultimate versatility, standout looks in a waterproof construction and supreme all-day comfort straight out of the box.

Designed to make a real statement both on and off the golf course, the latest spikeless and spiked range is comprised of 15 eye-catching golf shoes in as many as 33 vibrant colour options. Developed using tried and tested New Balance footwear innovations, the line-up delivers a combination of fashion and functionality to help golfers stay one step ahead.

“We’re constantly looking at footwear trends both on and off course to help shape our distinctive golf shoe collections,” said New Balance Golf Brand Manager Joop Hogenboom.

“Taking on board feedback from golfers and our retail partners, we’re thrilled to introduce the striking Spring/Summer 2025 range offering modern sneaker looks and the highly regarded New Balance shoe innovations to provide a perfect fit for every golfer seeking comfortable footwear in unmatched contemporary designs,” he added.

New Balance has been crafting top-quality footwear for the sports and lifestyle business since 1906. During that time, it introduced iconic designs like the popular 574 model in 1988 and the 997 in 1991, featuring the iconic ‘N’ logo on the side panels.

For more information on the SS25 golf shoe collection, visit your nearest New Balance Golf stockist

PING has expanded its range of innovative, lightweight carry bags with the introduction of the Moonlander, designed specifically for golfers who value simplicity, performance, and refined style. This launch comes alongside the refreshed Moonlite carry bag, the lightest model in their lineup.

PING is also rolling out fresh colourways across its full carry bag collection, as well as limited-edition Gradient Mr. PING designs in the Hoofer 14 and Moonlite models – marking the start of the 2025 golf season with bold innovation and eye-catching details across the board, with more to come.

Ideal for quick rounds, par-3 courses, or trips to the range, the Moonlite remains PING’s lightest bag at just 2 lbs. Designed to carry 7 to 9 clubs, the bag includes three practical pockets, including an insulated water bottle holder and a dedicated rangefinder pocket. Compact yet capable, the Moonlite delivers functionality without the bulk. RRP: £99.00

MOONLANDER

PING LIMITED EDITIONS

Brand new for 2025, the Moonlander has been engineered for purists who favour walking the course and carrying only what’s essential.

Weighing just 4.5 lbs, the bag features a clean, minimalist aesthetic and six thoughtfully designed pockets – offering ample space for a rangefinder, water bottle, and light apparel.

With convertible straps, the Moonlander easily switches between single and double carry options. Available in different colour options, including a repeat Mr. PING and camouflage pattern, each style adds a touch of personality.

RRP: £149.00

To celebrate the return of the golf season, PING has unveiled limited-edition Gradient Mr. PING designs for both the Hoofer 14 and Moonlite models. These exclusive styles reflect the vivid colours of sunrise and sunset – a nod to early tee times and twilight rounds. Quantities are limited, and the bags are available now via PING’s official site, with additional exclusive designs scheduled for release later this season in store and online.

View the full PING carry bag collection, including the new Moonlander and Moonlite, at eu.ping.com/en-gb/bags/carry-bags

POWAKADDY LAUNCHES 2025 CART BAG COLLECTION WITH NEW TECHNOLOGY PowaKaddy, the global leader in electric golf trolley innovation, has unveiled its 2025 cart bag collection, featuring four brand-new models and the latest evolution of its Mag-Lok technology.

The 2025 range introduces three entirely new bags; the FLEX, EDGE, and LITE – alongside a fully redesigned Dri Tech. The range offers golfers a choice of 16 style and colour combinations, resulting in a bold and contemporary lineup that delivers modern styling, purposeful performance, and seamless compatibility with PowaKaddy’s electric trolleys.

Continuing in name from the previous range is the hugely popular Dri Tech – which has been redesigned for 2025 and boasts a clean silhouette, modern styling, and class-leading waterproof protection.

With ultra-waterproof fabric, heat-welded seams and zips, a total of nine pockets and a hydrostatic rating of over 10,000mm, the Dri Tech keeps equipment dry in any conditions.

A 14-way divider, a lightweight build, and a selection of striking new colourways complete the offering.

New for 2025, the FLEX cart bag blends premium materials with a performance-first layout. Lightweight yet robust, FLEX is packed with practical features including 11 easy-access pockets and a reengineered divider system, delivering a tour-inspired feel in a modern silhouette.

Also new for this season, the EDGE is a feature-rich powerhouse with bold styling and practical storage solutions.

All four models come equipped with PowaKaddy’s

MOONLITE

innovative Mag-Lok system, which uses a high-strength magnet to effortlessly lock the bag onto any compatible PowaKaddy electric trolley – eliminating the need for a lower bag strap and making setup quicker and easier than ever.

Mag-Lok is supplied as standard with every 2025 bag, with simple instructions for attachment. For golfers using older trolley models, the collection also retains PowaKaddy’s trusted Key-Lock™ anti-twist base.

PowaKaddy CEO, David Catford, commented: “The 2025 cart bag range marks a further leap forward for PowaKaddy bags. Every model is brand-new – with three new names and reimagined designs across the board – and each one is built to integrate perfectly with our electric and manual trolleys. Combined with our unique Mag-Lok® technology, this is the most innovative and complete cart bag collection we’ve ever delivered.”

BAG MODELS, COLOURWAYS & RRP: • Dri Tech – £269.99 / €309.99: Colourways: White/Black, Black/Pink/Light Pink, Stealth Black, and others • EDGE – £219.99 / €249.99: Colourways include Black/ Yellow, Black/Red, Black/Blue, Black/White • FLEX – £179.99 / €199.99: Colourways include Black/ Yellow, Black/Gun Metal, Black/Teal • LITE – £149.99 / €169.99: Colourways: Black/Grey, Navy/ Blue, Black/Yellow Visit www.powakaddy.com to view and learn more about the entire PowaKaddy range of highperformance trolleys, bags, batteries and accessories

TRAVEL & BREAKS SUMMER 2025 | WWW.GOLFNEWS.CO.UK/TRAVEL

LUXURY IN SOTOGRANDE

SPOTLIGHT ON NORTHERN

ALL THE LATEST TRAVEL NEWS

FRANCE’S OPAL COAST

ME AND MY TRAVELS WITH CHRIS HOLLINS

GIANT STEPS AND GOLF SWINGS Causeway Coast Calling: Golf, Scenery, and Storytelling on No hern Ireland’s Iconic Shoreline

ELS TO OPEN NEW CLUB IN VILAMOURA YAS LINKS CLIMBS UP THE RANKINGS PGA AROEIRA 200M EURO INVESTMENT DUBAI PAIRS EVENT NOW OPEN

[48] SUMMER 2025 | TRAVEL NEWS GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Dubai Creek Reso Launches 2025 International Pairs Golf Tournament Dubai Creek Resort has officially announced the Dubai Creek International Pairs Tournament, taking place from 8th to 13th December 2025, offering golf enthusiasts a unique blend of world-class competition, luxury hospitality, and memorable experiences.

The six-day event will unfold across two of Dubai’s most iconic courses: the historic Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club and the prestigious Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates, home of the DP World Tour Championship.

The tournament will feature three rounds of Better Ball format, open to any pairing of amateur and professional golfers.

“We created this event to showcase everything the resort has to offer – from championship-level golf to five-star hospitality,” said Michael Major, Director of Golf at Dubai Creek.

“It’s more than a competition – it’s a curated experience where guests enjoy the game at its finest while relaxing and connecting in a luxury setting.”

Participants will stay at the award-winning Park Hyatt Dubai, with access to world-class facilities, including the chic Lagoon Beach by Twiggy, 10 onsite restaurants, and a carefully designed itinerary balancing sport and leisure.

Highlights include a Welcome Cocktail Dinner at Twiggy, complimentary practice rounds, airport and golf course transfers, and premium branded amenities.

“The pairing of Dubai Creek and the Earth Course brings together two very different but equally compelling golfing experiences,” Major adds.

“It reflects not only the quality of Dubai’s golf offering but also the seamless service and connectivity we provide for our guests.”

The 2025 tournament is positioned as a flagship experience for golf travelers, blending the spirit of camaraderie with competitive play, all set against the backdrop of Dubai’s luxury lifestyle offering.

Packages start at AED 14,000 per person, with single and double room options available.

To book or for more information, please contact: golfbooking@dubaigolf.com Or visit: dubaicreekresort.com/golf

Pga Aroeira Pa ner With Missoni For 200m Euro Real Estate Project PGA Aroeira Lisboa, the only PGA National venue in Portugal, is set to continue a major overhaul of its golf and lifestyle facilities after partnering with worldrenowned Italian fashion house Missoni to launch Aroeira Collections by Missoni, an exclusive residential and tourist project that will further enhance the golf experience at the iconic Lisbon resort.

Missoni’s first real estate project in Portugal, the proposed €200m development is scheduled to be completed by 2027 and comes during an exciting period of investment at PGA Aroeira Lisboa which includes the comprehensive upgrade of its two 18hole golf courses.

WHAT WILL AROEIRA OFFER At the heart of the ambitious project is the Aroeira Collections Hotel, which is poised to welcome both residents and visitors. Offering 138 one and twobedroom apartments, the hotel will sit in the centre of the resort’s two championship courses – PGA Aroeira No. 1 and No. 2 – while future plans also include the building of a new clubhouse.

The development will also feature 40 two and threebedroom apartments, 24 properties ranging from two to four bedrooms and 28 villas offering three to fivebedroom options in a move that is a major boost for Portuguese tourism and the local economy.

PGA AROEIRA 1 The project marks another step in solidifying Aroeira’s position at the forefront of Portuguese golf, which

OFF THE COURSE Continuing this ethos, the real estate project follows a sustainable approach with endemic plant species utilised in landscaping and no new earth brought in, embracing ESG principles and aligning with the EU Taxonomy for sustainable activities.

Ernie Els’ Vilamoura ‘Date With Destiny’ Nears Four-time major champion Ernie Els believes it was “destiny” that brought his prestigious golf brand to Europe, as The Els Club Vilamoura prepares for a grand opening this July in Portugal’s Algarve. The former Victoria course famous for hosting Portugal Masters events has been completely reimagined by Els and long-time design partner Greg Letsche, in collaboration with sports platform DETAILS. Their vision includes a reversed back nine, newly constructed holes, and a signature design style that combines strategy with elegance. “People might recognise the setting,” says Els, “but not the course. It’s completely new – and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Clubs to Hire Celebrates 15 Years of Global Golf Travel Success Golf club rental leader Clubs to Hire is marking its 15th anniversary, having helped over 750,000 golfers travel lighter since its 2010 launch at Faro Airport, Portugal. Founded by Irish entrepreneur Tony Judge, the company now operates in 29 top golf destinations worldwide.

After weathering the pandemic, Clubs to Hire has returned to pre-COVID profitability and is eyeing further

started in 2024 with the full renovation of the historic PGA Aroeira No. 1 course, originally designed by Frank Pennink. PGA Aroeira No. 2 – a Donald Steel course and former host of the Ladies European Tour which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year – is being upgraded this summer with works including all tee boxes and bunkers.

In addition, the resort’s commitment to sustainability is being reinforced with the installation of state-of-the-art irrigation systems on its courses, as well as using drought-resistant Bermuda grass across the 36-hole complex with a view to drastically reducing water consumption.

growth, with plans to partner with major airlines and travel platforms to streamline bookings. The company also sells used clubs through its sister site, Clubs to Sell.

Backed by golf legends like David Howell and Di Stewart, Clubs to Hire will celebrate the milestone with TV ads airing during major golf tournaments. Looking ahead, the company aims to make golf travel smarter and more accessible as global demand rises.

Among its standout features is the par-5 11th, a dramatic 560-yard hole flanked by water and wind, offering the perfect balance of risk and reward. A stateof-the-art practice facility adds to the venue’s appeal for elite and amateur golfers alike. Els has drawn on 35 years of global experience to craft a layout that welcomes all skill levels, with wide fairways, angled greens, and distinctive bunkering. “Course design is like a signature,” he says. “You put your personality into it.” With an emphasis on both member experience and championship quality, Els is confident Vilamoura will soon join his portfolio of world-class tournament venues.

Visit www.elsclubvilamoura.com

TRAVEL NEWS | SUMMER 2025 [49] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

Yas Links enters World’s Top 100 Courses Yas Links Abu Dhabi has officially entered the Top100GolfCourses.com World Top 100 Courses ranking for the first time, debuting at #96.

This US-inclusive ranking features the most celebrated layouts across the United States, UK, Europe, and beyond, placing Yas Links firmly among the most elite venues in global golf.

As the only course in the UAE to feature, the recognition marks a major milestone for both the club and Abu Dhabi on the international stage, underlining the Emirate’s growing reputation as a world-class golf destination.

“This is a proud moment for everyone at Yas Links and across the wider Viya Golf team,” said Karl Whitehead, Cluster Club Manager at Viya Golf (operator of Yas Links).

“Being recognised among the world’s top 100 golf courses is an outstanding achievement and a reflection of the passion, investment and high standards we continue to uphold. It’s also a powerful endorsement of Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a world-class golf destination.”

Designed by Kyle Phillips and set along the coastline of the world-famous Yas Island, Yas Links is widely praised for its traditional links-style layout, dramatic views, and championshiplevel conditioning.

The club is home to the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, a Rolex Series event and one of two playoff events at the climax of the DP World Tour season.

Recent champions of the event include former Ryder Cup star Thomas Pieters, Victor Perez, and most recently Paul Waring in dramatic fashion in November.

The ranking follows an exciting period of investment at Yas Links, including the launch of a new high-performance Golf Academy – featuring world-first, cutting-edge technology and upgraded year-round coaching facilities.

For more information about Yas Links, visit: www.viyagolf.com/yaslinks/

■ YAS LINKS

[50] SUMMER 2025 | FEATURE GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

A N O P E N I N V I TAT I O N

■ A BREATHTAKING AERIAL VIEW OF DUNLUCE LINKS AT ROYAL PORTRUSH GOLF CLUB, WHERE THE RUGGED NORTHERN IRISH COASTLINE MEETS WORLD-CLASS GOLF

There are few places in the world where championship golf, myth-soaked landscapes, and culinary surprises come together as seamlessly as along Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast. Matt Nicholson’s recent trip to this stunning stretch of shoreline was a masterclass in why this region continues to capture the hearts of golfers and travellers alike.

A RIVER JOURNEY WITH SPIRIT

DINING AND FIRST ROUNDS

Leaving Belfast behind, we drove north towards the Causeway Coast, our anticipation growing with every mile. But before settling into our base, we kicked off the trip in truly memorable style with a journey down the River Bann on the Spirit of the Bann, hosted by the welcoming Wendy Gallagher of Causeway Coast Foodie Tours.

This wasn’t just any boat ride. Aboard the MV Kingfisher a beautifully restored vessel originally crafted by Belfast’s famed Harland and Wolff shipbuilders we drifted along the gentle curves of the Bann, soaking up the sunshine, history, and local flavour. The tour celebrates Northern Ireland’s rich food and drink heritage, with an onboard showcase from Dunluce Distillery. As we passed the ancient site of Mountsandel, considered one of the earliest known human settlements in Ireland, it was hard not to feel immersed in something timeless.

With glasses raised and the sun reflecting off the river, it was the perfect way to ease into the rhythm of the coast.

A COASTAL RETREAT AT ELEPHANT ROCK Our base for the next two nights was the Elephant Rock Hotel in the heart of Portrush and what a find it was. Owned and lovingly run by Charlotte Dixon, the hotel is a perfect reflection of her vision: stylish, full of personality, and effortlessly welcoming. Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian townhouse, it combines period charm with bold, contemporary flair – think colourful interiors, thoughtful design touches, and an atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease.

From the moment we stepped through the door, we felt like more than just guests – we felt like part of the family. It’s the kind of place that understands what travelling golfers need: a

supremely comfortable bed, a great breakfast, and a genuine warmth that makes you look forward to coming back at the end of the day. Whether you’re here for the links or simply to unwind by the sea, Elephant Rock is an absolute gem.

That evening, we dined at Shanty, one of Portrush’s rising culinary stars. Located right on the water, the menu celebrates fresh local produce and Northern Irish seafood. It was the kind of meal that sets the tone for the rest of a trip thoughtful, delicious, and deeply satisfying.

In the morning, we made our way to Castlerock Golf Club, located just west of Coleraine. Perched where the River Bann meets the Atlantic, Castlerock is a classic links course carved into rolling dunes with views that stretch across to Donegal and, on a clear day, even as far as Scotland and Islay.

We tackled the Mussenden Links, Castlerock’s championship layout. Designed to test even seasoned players, the course delivers everything you’d hope for from a traditional links: undulating fairways, unpredictable winds, and natural beauty in abundance. I played surprisingly well –

■ DRAMATICALLY PERCHED ON A CLIFF EDGE, DUNLUCE CASTLE STANDS AS A HAUNTINGLY BEAUTIFUL RELIC OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S MEDIEVAL PAST

■ FOOD ONBOARD THE SPIRIT OF THE BANN

FEATURE | SUMMER 2025 [51] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ ELEPHANT ROCK

Travel Tips: Playing & Staying Along the Causeway Coast GETTING THERE which always helps and the post-round fish and chips in the welcoming clubhouse were well-earned and well-enjoyed. The atmosphere here was laid-back and warm, with the kind of hospitality that instantly makes you feel like a member.

Fly into Belfast International (BFS) or George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD).

Both offer easy access to the Causeway Coast (approx. 1–1.5 hrs by car). Car hire is essential to explore the area properly — especially if you’re hauling golf clubs. Golf News flew with Easyjet www.easyjet.com

GIANTS, CASTLES, AND COASTLINES No trip to this region would be complete without a visit to the legendary Giant’s Causeway, and after our round at Castlerock, we headed there in the afternoon sun. The site more than lives up to its billing. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Causeway’s landscape of interlocking basalt columns was formed over 60 million years ago by volcanic activity or, if local legend is to be believed, by the mighty giant Fionn mac Cumhaill, who built the pathway to challenge a Scottish rival.

The 20-minute walk from the visitor centre to the stones is worth every step. Along the way, you’ll spot distinctive formations like the Wishing Chair, the Camel, and the Harp. The visitor centre itself, built to blend seamlessly into the landscape, is a marvel of eco-friendly design and offers everything from interactive exhibits to audio tours.

On our way back, we made time for a stop at Dunluce Castle. Perched dramatically on a cliff edge, this medieval ruin is steeped in myth and mystery. Its strategic position and tumultuous history from early Irish settlers to sieges and shipwrecks – make it one of the most evocative sights on the Antrim coast.

MUST-PLAY COURSES ■ THE 1ST TEE AT CASTLEROCK GOLF CLUB’S MUSSENDEN COURSE, OFFERING A SPECTACULAR OPENING SHOT FRAMED BY RUGGED DUNES

FAREWELL FROM THE CLUBHOUSE

THE NIGHT BEFORE PORTRUSH Back in Portrush, dinner that evening was at Wine Bar – Ramore Restaurants, where the food, as always in Northern Ireland, was top-notch. From fresh seafood to creative desserts, every course was a winner.

Later, we headed to one of the true institutions of Irish golf culture: the Harbour Bar. Packed with memorabilia and stories, it’s arguably the finest 19th hole in the country maybe the world.

Jerseys, photographs, scorecards, and signatures line the walls, chronicling a rich history of visiting golfing greats. The bar has become an unofficial clubhouse for the international golf community.

We soaked in the atmosphere over a couple of pints before calling it a night – there was a big round ahead.

THE DUNLUCE AWAKENING After a restful night at Elephant Rock and a hearty breakfast, the time had come. Royal Portrush Golf Club’s Dunluce Links awaited – the crown jewel of Northern Irish golf and the host of this year’s Open Championship.

It had been more than two decades since my last visit to Portrush, and much had changed, not least the addition of two new holes introduced ahead of Shane Lowry’s triumphant 2019 Open win. The clubhouse, rich with history and alive with Open memorabilia, was a joy to explore. The Claret Jug gleamed in its glass case, surrounded by photos and stories of legends past.

We teed off as dawn broke, first on the course, with a stiff 30mph wind rolling in off the Atlantic.

Gary, our Forecaddie, was an absolute gem – full of insight, good humour, and stories from the Open. In 2019, he was even asked to caddie during the qualifying rounds. The wind made every shot an adventure, and Gary rated the conditions a solid 9/10 on the difficulty scale.

The back nine brought more stability in my game, aided by a quick bite and a coffee at the halfway hut. By the end of the round, I was reluctant to leave the fairways behind. This was links golf at its most thrilling, most authentic, and most humbling.

Still, nothing could detract from the sheer quality of the course. Each hole is a masterpiece – rugged, strategic, and breath-taking. The highlight came at the fearsome Calamity Corner, the par-3 16th stretching 235 yards across a gaping chasm. Armed with my driver, I managed to find the back of the green and two-putted for a proud par. It’s one of the most iconic par-3s in golf and for good reason.

■ SOAKING IN THE MOMENT AT ROYAL PORTRUSH ON ONE OF GOLF’S MOST ICONIC LINKS

We wrapped up with lunch back at the Royal Portrush clubhouse, swapping stories and soaking in the view one last time. There’s a special energy in the air here – part history, part community, and part elemental force from the coast itself.

Driving back to Belfast to catch the flight home, I reflected on what made the trip so unforgettable. Yes, the golf was world-class. Yes, the scenery was out of this world. But it was also the people – the caddies, the hoteliers, the restaurateurs, and fellow travellers – who made it special. Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast offers much more than a golf trip. It’s a full-bodied experience, rich in culture, wrapped in history, and topped with a touch of magic.

• Royal Portrush (Dunluce Links) – Host of The Open. Book well in advance. www.royalportrushgolfclub.com • Castlerock Golf Club – A beautiful, challenging links course with local charm. www.castlerockgc.co.uk • Consider adding Portstewart Golf Club if you’re extending your trip. www.portstewartgc.co.uk

WHERE TO STAY Elephant Rock Hotel, Portrush – Stylish, family-run boutique hotel ideal for golfers.

Great food, great location, and warm hospitality. www.elephantrockhotel.co.uk

EAT & DRINK • Shanty (Portrush) – Fresh, seafood-driven menu with coastal views. www.shantyportrush.com • Ramore Wine Bar – Local favourite with a buzzing atmosphere. www. ramorerestaurant.com • Harbour Bar, Portrush – A must-visit for golfers. Packed with memorabilia and great craic. www.ramorerestaurant.com/restaurant/ harbour-bar/

DON’T MISS • Giant’s Causeway – Go early or late to beat the crowds. Use the clifftop trail for dramatic views. www.nationaltrust.org. uk/visit/northern-ireland/giants-causeway • Dunluce Castle – One of the most photogenic ruins in Ireland. www. discovernorthernireland.com • Spirit of the Bann Tour – Relaxing, local, and full of flavour. www.causewaycoastfoodietours.com

BEST TIME TO VISIT May–September offers the best chance of decent weather and course conditions.

Summer evenings are long — perfect for twilight rounds.

PRO TIP If playing Royal Portrush, request a forecaddie they’ll help you navigate the wind, read the greens, and add local colour to your round.

REMEMBER Northern Ireland is part of the common travel area, meaning there are no travel restrictions for British travellers.

For more information visit: www.Ireland.com/northernireland

[52] SUMMER 2025 | TRAVEL GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ LE TOUQUET LA MER 16TH HOLE

S PA R K L I N G G O L F ON OFFER O N F R A N C E ’ S O PA L C O A S T Skip the airport queues and head for the ferry to discover what golfing gems France’s stunning Opal Coast has to offer

K golfers looking for an overseas break that is easily accessible, eminently affordable, offers on enticing mix of golfing challenges, and boasts superb array of off-course activities and wonderful culinary experiences, should look no further than the France’s Opal Coast – a breathtaking stretch of northern shoreline that promises a perfect blend of history, hospitality, and golfing brilliance, all within easy reach of the UK. The Opal Coast – Côte d’Opale – stretches for some 75 miles along the French coastline, from the Belgian border in the east to the sleepy seaside town of Berck-sur-Mer in the west. It’s a region named for its remarkable light – a pearly shimmer that inspired the painter Édouard Lévêque in the early 20th century. And while artists might come for the shifting hues, golfers come for the magnificent variety of highquality courses on offer in this charming corner of France.

With ten excellent courses located at a choice of seven golf clubs, the Côte d’Opale

U

■ SAINT-OMER GC

offers a wealth of variety and challenge, whether you’re planning a relaxed two-week tour or a spontaneous long weekend break.

What makes this area particularly appealing to UK golfers is its accessibility. A short ferry or Eurotunnel crossing delivers you to Calais or Boulogne – both within easy striking distance of the region’s bestknown courses. No airport hassle, no baggage charges for your clubs, and no need to wait for your luggage on arrival – just drive off the ferry and head straight for the first tee.

A DIVERSE MENU OF COURSES Each course on the Opal Coast has its own character, showcasing the region’s varied landscape of sandy beaches, pine forests, chalk cliffs, and rolling countryside.

One of the standouts is Le Touquet Golf Resort, home to 45 holes spread between three courses – La Mer, La Forêt, and the 9-hole Manoir. A demanding 7,000-yard Harry

■ GOLF-PASS EN CÔTE D’OPALE

Colt design that winds its way between the coastal dunes and rough grasses, La Mer offers wonderful sea views, formidable bunkering, and the firm, fast greens that typify all great links. A six-time host of the French Open, the course underwent a major renovation just over five years ago and has climbed the course ranking lists considerably since the improvements were completed.

Just a 20-minute drive inland, you’ll find Golf d’Hardelot, another standout facility offering two excellent 18-hole championship layouts in Les Pins and Les Dunes. Tree-lined fairways and fast greens ensure Les Pins sets a serious challenge, whilst still allowing birdie chances. Designed by Tom Simpson in 1931, and superbly renovated by Frank Pont just a few years ago, the par-71 course is reminiscent of many classic courses from the Surrey sandbelt, with its sweeping, tree-lined fairways and springy turf making it a joy to play. With a series of stunning short holes, beguiling shorter par 4s, and demanding par fives, Les Pins will test every element of your game.

Just a mile away, the par-70 Dunes course is

■ LE TOUQUET’S LE MANOIR HOTEL

TRAVEL | SUMMER 2025 [53] GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

■ COTE D’OPALE

■ WIMEREUX

Meanwhile, Aa St-Omer Hôtel du Golf, perched right on the course, offers sweeping views of the Aa Valley and plenty of post-round comfort – think Jacuzzi, sauna, and modern amenities in an idyllic natural setting.

Many clubs have partnerships with nearby hotels, so it’s worth checking in advance for package deals, especially if you’re travelling in a group.

OFF THE COURSE: FOOD, WINE & CULTURE The Opal Coast is famously generous when it comes to wining and dining, with a culinary scene that rivals the quality of its fairways.

Think local bistros with excellent wine lists serving hearty local dishes like sole meunière, seafood platters overflowing with crab and crevettes, and slow-cooked salt marsh lamb with roasted ratte potatoes – and all at reasonable prices.

Boulogne’s historic old town offers cobbled streets and medieval ramparts, while Calais is famous not just for its ferries but for its lace museum and Rodin’s ‘Burghers of Calais’ sculpture. Le TouquetParis-Plage – the region’s most stylish resort – delivers art deco architecture, swish boutiques, and a beach scene to rival any on the Riviera.

■ HARDELOT LES PINS 15TH

short by modern standards – largely due to its six par-three holes – but a combination of treelined fairways and deep bunkers provide plenty of defence against par. The greens are slick and come in a variety of shape and sizes, keeping you constantly captivated, while significant changes in elevation and plenty of risk/reward shots ensure entertainment from start to the dramatic finish. The two courses are served by separate clubhouses, both of which boast bags of gallic charm.

For traditionalists, Wimereux Golf Club offers one of the most authentic links experiences in France. Founded in 1901 and rebuilt after the First World War, the course hugs the coastline and can be a stern test in the wind. Expect true links turf, big skies, and wide, inviting fairways.

Dunkerque Grand Littoral, meanwhile, presents a unique offering with a 27-hole layout inspired by the region’s fortifications, with star-shaped bunkering and bold architecture. A favourite with history buffs and shot-shapers alike, it’s an imaginative and rewarding round.

Inland, Aa Saint-Omer Golf Club hosts professional events and features a championship course set amid scenic hills and forests – a wonderful test of all-round game. And for something truly serene, Golf de Nampont St Martin sits in the grounds of a 15th-century château, offering two courses amid rivers and trees – a peaceful counterpoint to the more demanding coastal layouts.

Finally, Belle Dune Golf Club, near FortMahon-Plage, is an eco-conscious delight. Built within a protected dune ecosystem, this course is a model of sustainability and natural beauty, frequently listed among France’s top courses for its setting and immaculate maintenance.

What’s perhaps most surprising about golf on the Opal Coast is how uncrowded it remains.

Even during peak summer months, tee times are available, and the atmosphere is relaxed

and unhurried – a far cry from the bustle of many high-profile European destinations.

For the best weather, the ideal time to visit is late spring through to early autumn, but the region’s temperate climate means golf is possible year-round, with many clubs offering reduced winter rates.

GOLF-PASS – YOUR TICKET TO GREAT VALUE GREEN FEES Talking of reduced rates, if you’re planning to sample more than one of these standout venues, the Golf-Pass en Côte d’Opale offers exceptional value. For €350, you’ll get five green fees across eight participating courses, valid for 15 days. It’s a great way to mix and match coastal links with inland classics, all at a significant saving. To find out more, visit www.golfencotedopale.com.

WHERE TO STAY Accommodation options are plentiful too, from boutique hotels and countryside Relais to more luxurious options. Many of the golf clubs offer on-site lodging or discounted partnerships with nearby hotels, making it easy to build a tailored itinerary.

At Le Touquet, Manoir Hôtel is a timeless choice, just 50 metres from the fairways and exuding old-world charm. Covered in Virginia creeper and nestled among the trees, it’s an elegant base with a pool, excellent restaurant, and easy access to both the charming seaside town and the golf courses.

In Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme, the Hôtel du Cap Hornu offers stunning views over the Baie de Somme from a 15-hectare park – perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape between rounds.

PLANNING YOUR TRIP

■ CLUBHOUSE AT LE TOUQUET

Whether you’re a large group of friends or society looking for an action-packed and affordable golfing trip, or a couple seeking a long weekend break mixing golf and fine dining, or somewhere in between, the Opal Coast ticks all the boxes. It’s accessible, affordable, and above all, unforgettable.

For more information about booking a golf holiday to the Cote D’Opale, including details of how to book a Golf-Pass ticket, and enquire about accommodation options, visit golfnorthernfrance.com

■ DUNKERQUE GRAND LITTORAL

[54] SUMMER 2025 | TRAVEL GOLFNEWS.CO.UK

SOL GOLF: A LUXURIOUS G E TAWAY I N THE HEART OF SOTOGRANDE

■ THE SPACIOUS LIVING AREA THAT AWAITS Golfers seeking the perfect base GUESTS AT BOTH PENTHOUSE APARTMENTS for their next golf trip need look no further than the high-end penthouse accommodation on offer from SOL GOLF. Overlooking the stunning Puerto de Sotogrande and located just a ten-minute drive from some of the finest golf courses in the area, SOL GOLF is dedicated to creating incredible experiences for its guests

oasting more than 300 days of sunshine and home to some of the most highly rated golf courses on the continent of Europe in a luxurious setting, the Sotogrande area has everything to offer both on and off the golf course.

Situated within one hour of both Gibraltar and Malaga airports and with a minimum of five direct flights from the UK daily, the destination is well suited to accommodate golfers seeking the best golf getaway that money can buy.

And with SOL GOLF’s unparalleled penthouse accommodation, golfers can be rest assured that their trip is one to remember! Nestled in the exclusive and highly desirable Ribera del Obispo complex, the set-up is comprised of two beautifully appointed four en-suite bedroom apartments.

Suitable for small groups, couples and families, as well as larger parties of up to 16 people, both apartments feature a stunning balcony area to soak up the impressive vista over breakfast and while relaxing on the outdoor sofas.

With far-reaching views of the Mediterranean Sea, the apartments provide a quiet haven to wind down and relax after days on the course and evenings out in Sotogrande, which offers a vibrant nightlife and an array of the finest dining options in the Costa del Sol region. SOL GOLF can also help personalise every booking with a host of additional services, including a private chef,

B

yacht charters and private airport transfers to ensure a hassle-free experience.

And you won’t have to travel far to find some fantastic golf courses to play! Golfers can visit the world-renowned Real Club Valderrama, which with its pristine cork-tree forest-lined fairways and small, elevated green complexes provides a superb challenge, while just next door is the stunning La Reserva Club Sotogrande, offering wide sweeping fairways that provide breath taking views in every direction.

Real Club de Sotogrande, the closest venue to the SOL GOLF residences, is situated near the shoreline of the Mediterranean Sea to provide another best-in-class option for guests to consider playing during their trip.

On offer at La Hacienda Links Golf Resort are out-of-this-world panoramic views of the sea and Rock of Gibraltar, while just further south is La Zagaleta Golf Club which ensures one of Europe’s most exclusive experiences for those seeking the ultimate day out on the course.

Slightly further afield is Finca Cortesin, an award-winning venue considered a true Spanish gem and host to the 2023 Solheim Cup; the beautiful and historic San Roque Golf Club; and the elegant Marbella Club further up the coastline.

And it doesn’t stop there, with a host of offcourse activities to be enjoyed in Sotogrande and the surrounding region. These include an extensive selection of vibrant bars and restaurants, stunning local architecture, golden

■ THE LUXURIOUS ACCOMMODATION OVERLOOKS THE PUERTO DE SOTOGRANDE

beaches, and cultural attractions to enjoy during some time away from the immaculate fairways.

Whether it’s all about ticking off bucket list courses, enjoying local seafood and cuisine or immersing yourself in stunning natural beauty, the SOL GOLF team are on hand to ensure guests can line up the ultimate itinerary.

WHY CONSIDER SOL GOLF FOR YOUR NEXT GOLF TRIP? • Luxury accommodation to suit different group sizes • Stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea from the balcony • Situated in a prime location near some of Europe’s best golf courses • Relax before and after golf in a serene setting • Close to an incredible selection of local dining options • Year-round destination with plenty of sunshine • Dedicated team with a combined 40+ years’ experience • Every detail is considered to make each trip memorable To find out more, and to book your next golf trip with SOL GOLF, visit www.solgolf.es.

■ SOL GOLF HAS SEVERAL WORLD CLASS GOLFING VENUES ON ITS DOORSTEP

■ ONE OF THE BEAUTIFULLY APPOINTED BEDROOMS

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CHRIS HOLLINS President of the The Oxfordshire Golf Club, TV personality and former winner of Strictly Come Dancing reveals his favourite places to play and stay

I first picked up a golf club when I was about 12 at my mate’s house. We took a few clubs from his dad’s bag and started chipping away. I got a set of Slazenger greensites with the woods and leather covers when I was about 14 and I was away. Sadly, cricket got in the way but really got the bug when was about 25. Working on BBC Breakfast meant early start but of course early finishes. Some of my greatest days out have been hitting that silly white ball around with my dad and mates.

My favourite golf course abroad is I was lucky enough to play one shot at Augusta and I thought that was incredible. It’s hundred times more colourful, undulating, and breath-taking than you expect to be. For pure relaxation, Sandy Lane in Barbados is hard to beat. But for me the destination has to be Ireland. I love the links, the spectacular views, and the wildlife and for that reason Waterville gets my vote.

My favourite course in the uk is I’m just putting together that list for the next few series of “Golf’s Greatest Holes”. We Brits are truly blessed. I love the challenge of my course the Oxfordshire and Sunningdale Old course is

very tough to beat. But there are certain places which bring back fond memories. Turnberry for that reason is top of my list, only just though, because of the fantastic day I had there with my dad. It was on our bucket list, and we managed to get there. An afternoon there in the setting sun is something I will never forget.

My ideal holiday 4 ball is A golfing weekend with school and university mates is always the ideal trip but that never feels like a holiday!!! I’m exhausted by the end of it. My son, George is 10 and has a lovely swing, so more recently it’s been a 2 ball with a beer and a coke in the buggy. The last time out was in Greece, Costa Navarino. Which was absolutely stunning!

Most recent holiday was to Cornwall. We all fancied a bit of surfing. What could possibly go wrong? Well it chucked it

HIGHLIGHT MUST BE PLAYING 18 HOLES WITH RORY MCLLROY AT THE PRO-AM AT THE BMW PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

down for the entire week. I call it character building.

My most memorable round was Probably a charity golf day at St Georges Hill, Weybridge. With three holes to play I was 2 under par. Tragically reality hit me late in the round and I ended up carding one over 73! Playing off 7 I still came second!!

The highlight of my golfing career to date was I’m very lucky with the day job, so I have many great days with Paul McGinley. But highlight must be playing 18 holes with Rory Mcllroy at the Pro-am at the BMW PGA Championship.

He hadn’t won a major back then but what a ball-striker and a more importantly great guy. I also have to give Tommy Fleetwood a mention, another great day on the course.

The best hotel I’ve stayed in is Claridge’s in London. My wife, Sarah and I got married back in 2012 and we were lucky enough to stay there on the night of our wedding. It was an incredible suite. But in true Hollins style we were only in the room for a few hours as we left at 4 am to go skiing for the honeymoon! I promised her we will get back there soon!

Most memorable meal Probably a dinner at the Cliff in Barbados.

It was the perfect Caribbean evening, table overlooking the sea. Chilled white and fresh fish.

And no children!!

My favourite city in the world Depends on the mood. Tokyo blows the mind, you can have a great day in Milan but there really is no place like home. I lived in London for 20 years before moving out to Oxfordshire but it still ticks all the boxes.

My top travel tip is Give yourself some time. I tend to fill every second of my day and never allow time to do get lost or do nothing and most importantly enjoy the moment.