Northern Golfer magazine #62 - April 2018

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62

APRIL 2018

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REVIEWED

11-YEAR-OLD MAGGIE WHITEHEAD SHARES HER LOVE FOR THE GAME

MAGGIE’S MAJOR DREAMS

GEORGE WASHINGTON MULTI-STOREY

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EDITOR Paul Robertson editor@northerngolfer.co.uk EDITORIAL Dean Bailey 01661 844 115 dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk Alan Hedley 07570 797 566 ahedley@northerngolfer.co.uk EVENTS Dean Bailey 01661 844 115 dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk ADVERTISING MANAGER Doug Brolls 07721 031 482 doug@offstonepublishing.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Gibson & Nicky Rogerson info@kgphotography.co.uk

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EDITOR’S NOTE AND CONTENTS The clocks have gone forward, Patrick Reed has won the Green Jacket and we are ready for another busy season across the region.

This winter has to go down as one of the longest and most miserable for golfers for some time, with many courses only suitable for Eskimos and ducks for much of the last few months.

So to see The Masters back on our TV screens will hopefully signal a brighter few months ahead, where we can get out of the house, simulators and indoor practice facilities and back onto the fabulous courses across the North East and Yorkshire. Our clubs have seen revenues take a battering during the abysmal weather so they will need our support more than ever.

This month’s Northern Golfer features many inspirational stories, opportunities to get into the game and some super offers to get you back into the swing of things.

Our cover star Maggie Whitehead is one to watch. She is incredibly dedicated to making it to the top and is one of a number of successful girls from the region who have the potential to reach dizzy heights.

Meanwhile, those who are already there continue to give back to the sport. Graeme Storm will host two junior tournaments this year while Lee Westwood continues to champion the development of juniors at Close House - where the phenomenally successful Junior Masters returns this year.

January 2019 sees some big changes to the rules of the game but will they improve the way the sport is played? See if you agree with Dean Bailey, who takes a look at some of the biggest changes in his column on page 22.

Dean also somehow found a break in the clouds to review George Washington while his interview with Laura McDonald of European Golf Challenge highlights her favourite places to play.

We also have the latest gear, tips to improve your handicap, competitions to win, and news from across the North East and Yorkshire for you.

Until next month, good luck in the early season competitions and thank you to all the green staff for overcoming the elements to prepare our courses for play.

Paul Robertson, editor editor@northerngolfer.co.uk

04-08 TEEING OFF

Success stories from around the world with Tarren, Storey and Hall plus Chris Paisley goes back to school and our greenkeepers are heading to The Open

10-20 TEEING OFF

England honours,winning ideas, new signings and the return of the Junior Masters

23 DEAN BAILEY The big rules shake up is coming!

28 TOUR LIFE

Chris Paisley on getting back into the swing of things

30 ROUND WITH

European Golf Challenge’s Laura McDonald

FRONT COVER

11-year-old Maggie Whitehead on her dream of being world number one

36 MATCH PLAY PAIRS

Pages 24-26

38 YORKSHIRE

Last chance to enter this year’s event

We visit four of our favourite clubs in the White Rose county

32 GEORGE WASHINGTON

34 THE LATEST GEAR FOR 2018

42 TIPS

Iron out your ball striking with John Harrison

44 COMPETITIONS

Win a trip to Dumfries plus golf for four at Alnmouth, Castle Eden and Romanby

46 FROM THE BUNKER Golfing tales from around the region

NORTHERN GOLFER 03

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Bronze for Whitley W

hitley Bay Golf Club’s junior team finished third in the Home Nations Inter-Club Championship in Portugal.

Playing at Morgado on The Algarve, the team of Rosie Belsham, Brandon Jones, Charlotte Pickering, James Burston, Aaron Blackwood and Jake Iredale competed in the week-long set of matches before beating New Club St Andrews 4.5-1.5 in the third place playoff as Bramshaw Golf Club beat Llanwern Golf Club to lift the trophy.

There was however individual success for Whitley Bay’s Rosie Belsham, who was the best performing girl from category one during the week.

Dave Burston, club captain and junior liaison officer, said: “It was

04 NORTHERN GOLFER

great to be out there with the juniors and see them play so well over the three days.

“It was their fourth time in front of the Sky Sports cameras so they’re all naturals now and managed to concentrate on their golf. To see a group of young players who have grown up together achieve what they have this season has been fantastic.

We can’t wait to get going again this season.”

Whitley Bay qualified for the event having finished runners up in the Northumberland Junior Golf League before winning through at the regional final at Clitheroe.

Meanwhile, as we went to press, Rosie Belsham started the season with a second place finish in the Scottish Girls’ Open Championship.

The Whitley Bay team and their supporters

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China in his hands C

allum Tarren added another impressive result to his CV out in China with a second place finish in the PGA Tour SeriesChina season-opening Chengdu Championship – his fourth consecutive second place finish on the PGA Tour Series-China following his late season success in 2017.

Rocklifffe Hall-attached Callum shot a four-round total of 15 underpar to finish five shots behind winner Jeffrey Kang at Luxehills International Country Club as his Rockliffe clubmate James Maw finished in a tie for 10th place.

“It’s good to finish runner-up, but obviously I’d love to win on the PGA TOUR Series-China,” said Callum.

“Last year, I was thinking about it

Anthony Blackburn

more until I won my first title on the China Golf Association Tour, but if I keep putting myself in these positions on this tour, a trophy will come hopefully this year.

“I’ve just got to keep doing what I’m doing. I’m doing the right things and the scores are proving that. Winning is difficult but hopefully it will come.”

After one event Callum occupied one of the all-important top-five places in the PGA Tour China-Series Order of Merit, which offers the leading five players at the end of the season a spot on the Web.com Tour in the US next season.

This season he is also competing on the China Golf Association Tour,

Inter champions

Callum Tarren missing the cut in his first event before finishing in a tie for 51st place in the Bo Ao Open.

“My game is in a good spot and I just have to keep playing solid,” added Callum.

“The goal this year is to earn status on Web.com through PGA Tour Series-China or win the CGA Tour OOM, which gets you a European Tour Card.”

Malton & Norton Golf Club lifted the North East Rabbits Golf Association’s Inter title for 2017 with the winners of the Rabbits league still to be decided.

In the Inter league Finals Day at Woodham, Malton & Norton beat runners-up Stocksfield in the final of the event for players with handicaps of 8-15.

Anthony Blackburn from Ripon City Golf Club beat the leading points scorers from each of the leagues’ clubs to lift the individual title.

The Rabbits league will host its Finals Day at Ramside Hall this spring.

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A developing Storey

PGA win for Watkins Hobson Golf Club professional Mark Watkins won the weather-affected NE/NW PGA Andalucia Pro Am in Spain.

Mark (pictured) led the field of professionals over three days with a score of 115 points as the event was cut to 54 holes because of rain. His seven under-par total was enough for a three shot win over Craig Goodfellow, Mark Ridley and Chris McDonnell in a tie for second place.

In the team event, Chris led his team of Tony Brown, Dave Lawson and Steve Dixon to victory.

J

ake Storey has been in superb form in the US. The 22-year-old Northumberland and England player - a member of Alnmouth Golf Club - is a senior at Georgia Southern University and recently defeated Alabama’s Wilson Furr in a two-hole playoff to win his second Georgia Southern Individual Collegiate title.

Jake chipped to 2ft to make par on the final hole as Furr made bogey at the GSU course. Both had tied on a two-round total of 144 with Jake shooting rounds of 73 and 71.

Carter Collins, Jake’s coach, said: “These wins are not a by-product of Jake playing well, they’re a byproduct of Jake being a very good player. I think great things are ahead for him in his last semester.”

Jake made a significant breakthrough in 2012 when he won the English Under 16 Championship for the McGregor Trophy at Trevose in Cornwall and played for England

in the successful Under 16 England team against Ireland and Scotland.

He went on to represent England in the Fairhaven Trophy Nations Cup Team and Sir Henry Cooper Junior Masters as well the Boys Home Internationals in 2013 and 2014. He also has victories in the Dutch Junior Open, Irish Boys Open 2013 and Italian U16 Championship.

He has been at Georgia Southern for nearly four years, studying civil engineering, and was named the Sun Belt Golfer of the Year and part of the first team for Jake Storey (right) with Wilson Furr All-Sun Belt last year.

He has been a prolific performer, Southern Individual Collegiate posting four top 10 finishes and tying for first place with including two wins and three top teammate Steven Fisk at the Sun five finishes, winning the Georgia Belt Championship.

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Hall the way to America

J

essica Hall will follow in the footsteps of Jodi EwartShadoff and Ellie Givens when she heads to America for a golf scholarship.

The talented Bishop Auckland golfer heads for California State University, Fresno, which plays in the NCAA Division 1, this August.

Andy Newman, from United Sports USA Golf, signed Jessica to the company’s golf programme and was instrumental in her landing the scholarship at Fresno, much to the delight of her parents Graham and Carolynne.

Andy said: “Jess will join up with head coach Emily Loftin, who was delighted to have beaten around 25 other universities for her signature.

She will join fellow United Sports USA golfers Alison Muirhead and Dominika Gradecka at Fresno.

“Over the next four years she will be representing the university all over America. This year, the team played in seven different states,

Jessica Hall

competing against other top women’s golf programmes.

“Jessica has ambitions to play professional golf and the collegiate set up will prove the perfect environment for her to test herself against the best female golfers on the college tour.”

Jessica held a handicap of plusthree at one stage last season before finally settling at plus-two as she finished third at the Irish Girls Open Championship, in the top 10 at the

English Girls Open Championship and fifth at the Faldo Series Final at Al Ain in the UAE. She also won the Durham County Junior Championship at Brancepeth Castle setting a new course record and qualified to play in the Telegraph Junior Championship final in Portugal.

She also made it into the England Under 18 team and won the Critchley Salver at Sunningdale last season.

The Durham County Golf Union has thrown its weight behind England Golf’s junior golf campaign. One of four counties to be recruited to England Golf’s Growing the Game for the Future initiative, the county organised a junior presentation conference at George Washington Hotel and Golf Club backed by the Durham County Junior Coaching Committee.

NORTHERN GOLFER 07

TEEINGOFF Carus Green Golf Club will host The Trilby Tour Regional Championship for Cumbria for a second year on June 21 following three regional qualifying opens on April 21, May 19 and June 3 at the club. The 2018 Championship of Yorkshire will take place at Kilnwick Percy Golf Club on August 2 ahead of the International Grand Final at Hull on August 30.

Open green team

M

orpeth’s John Scurfield and Sharpley’s Paul Walton head a team of North East and Yorkshire-based greenkeepers heading for Carnoustie for the 147th Open Championship this summer.

The duo will be part of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association’s volunteer support team, which sees a greenkeeper on hand to assist every match throughout the championship.

Each year the R&A requests BIGGA’s assistance with hosting the championship, meaning BIGGA members have been on hand to witness some of the greatest

John Scurfield moments in the history of the game, including Jordan Spieth’s spectacular final round at Royal Birkdale in 2017.

This year will be John’s first trip to work at The Open and the 32-year-old is looking forward to it.

“It’s the first time I’ve done it and when the BIGGA invitation came up I jumped at it, it’s just the sort of thing I want to do,” said John.

Yorkshire’s Richard Holmes (Crosland Heath), Anthony McGeough (Richmond), Ash Smith (Meltham), Robert Smith (Pannal) and John Waite (Scarthingwell) will also be in the group along with Kimberley Yeldham, deputy head greenkeeper at Royal West Norfolk, who is joining the team for the first time.

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Chris Paisley and Sacred Heart pupils in action

Back to school

C

hris Paisley swapped the sunshine of the European Tour for a visit to Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School in Burnopfield to open the school’s driving range and officially launch its Pathways into Golf programme.

Chris, whose brother Richard is a director of the St Thomas More Multi-Academy Trust, opened the new facility - which features an artificial tee and multiple targets on the school’s sports field - and offered tips to young golfers including his niece Molly.

The first facility of its kind in a North East school, the driving range adds to the school’s recent work with Bryan Ross, a former Durham County captain and player, and junior golf coach.

Headteacher Paul Naughton said: “We were delighted to have Chris open the new facility. Many children get the chance to try a sport at school but too often that spark of interest is allowed to go out because the pathway on to the next level is unclear and parents do not know how to keep them in the game.

“We have coaching in place 10 NORTHERN GOLFER

in all our trust’s schools, and the significant investment in this facility will greatly improve what we can offer to young golfers at Sacred Heart with the help of Bryan.”

The programme across the academy sees children coached weekly for 40 weeks of the year, delivered by Bryan.

He added: “It’s been fantastic to work with Paul and to see a headteacher with so much passion for the game. We want to give each child an opportunity to try golf and everything we do is about making golf fun. If we can deliver keen youngsters into local clubs I think we’ve got a great chance of growing the game in the years to come.”

TM Amenities, Dynamic Indoor Golf and Turfcare Ltd of Consett supported the driving range project.

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Robson’s England honour

B

eamish Park Golf Club secretary Trevor Robson has added his name to the North East’s international honours board having been called up at the age of 65.

Trevor - a four handicapper, his lowest ever mark – represented England against Scotland at Gullane in the annual UK Golf Club Managers Association match in 2017, winning two and halving one of his three matches in a losing cause.

“The course, the event organisation and camaraderie was

fantastic and as you would expect very keenly contested,” said Trevor.

“Representing your country at any age would be special, so at 65 I am delighted. I’ve proved that as long as you keep trying, age is not a barrier.

I’d love to be able to go back this year.”

Trevor may well add to his honours having caught the eye of the Durham seniors county squad following his England call up.

“I enjoy practising, especially my

Girls Golf Rocks Girls’ golf is rocking again in the North with the successful campaign to inspire new young players returning to Cumbria and Yorkshire this month.

The programme ran in Cumbria for the first time last year and almost 60 girls took part in taster sessions with 42 enjoying it so much they took a coaching course.

This year free sessions will be on offer at four clubs in Cumbria and eight in Yorkshire, and each is followed by group coaching courses with PGA professionals and support from young ambassadors. To find out more visit www.girlsgolfrocks.org

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Trevor Robson short game and work hard on my fitness which has allowed me to achieve my current handicap. I’m really looking forward to getting going again this season.”

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Rory McIlroy at the British Masters

Local heroes honoured

C

lose House and the English Champion Clubwinning team from City of Newcastle were recognised at the annual Sport Newcastle Gala Awards Dinner.

Close House received the biggest prize on the night, the Sporting Success Award, for its successful hosting of the British Masters at the annual event, which is organised

by Sport Newcastle and recognises sporting success across the region.

Close House managing director Jonathan Lupton said: “It was a great honour to collect the Sporting Success Award on behalf of the Close House team following the most

successful British Masters ever. It was the culmination of two years of hard work and we are incredibly proud to have hosted such a successful event.”

The team of Alex Dixon, Phil Ridden and Mark Wharton from City of Newcastle Golf Club received the Frank Brennan Trophy for team of the year after they became the English Champion Club for the first time before going on to finish third in the European Club Trophy.

Meanwhile in the Rising Star Awards, Gosforth Park Ladies Golf Club member Jessica Baker was recognised among 10 of the region’s most promising young sports stars.

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12 NORTHERN GOLFER

P

roud dad David MacLaren caddied for his daughter Meghan as she held her overnight lead to claim her first Ladies European Tour title in Australia.

The 23-year-old (pictured) carded a level-par final round in hot and humid conditions to finish on 10 under-par in the New South Wales Open at Coffs Harbour Golf Club.

Meghan’s first Ladies European Tour win came in just her 11th event.

“It feels incredible. I didn’t think those words would be coming out of my mouth so soon!” she said as she thanked her dad, Staysure Tour

CEO David a former single figure handicap golfer with Pontleand, for carrying the bag over the weekend.

“He was helpful in that he didn’t say anything the whole way around,” joked Meghan.

“It was great to have him there, just to keep me calm and make sure I didn’t get ahead of myself. He deserves a lie down,” added Meghan, who earned the winning point for Great Britain & Ireland in the 2016 Curtis Cup.

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Jackson’s solo venture

R

oss Jackson has been at the forefront of opening up the game to young and old in the North East, establishing one of the best junior golf training programmes in the region, creating a successful junior tour and also setting up a charitable foundation. He won the Bonallack Award in 2016 for its efforts and has now set up his own state-of-the-art golf performance facility.

The Golf Performance Institute, based in Billingham’s Belasis Business Park, launched last month and offers just about everything needed to get into golf or to improve your game, without being based at a golf club.

“Golf is stereotypically labelled as a sport of rigidity, rules and strict dress codes,” said Ross.

“Here, we’re attempting to distance ourselves from that and have relaxed attitudes, no dress code and the single rule of having fun.

“Time and weather constraints are a major factor in UK golf.

Our indoor facilities alleviate any weather concerns while our game play makes golf fast. You can play a round in an hour here.”

Advanced PGA professional Ross is keen to utilise a combination of indoor and outdoor space at The Golf Performance Institute, which comprises two communal practice bays, two coaching and learning bays, flat putting green, moveable putting green, short-game area, golfspecific strength and conditioning area plus a custom fitting workshop.

“We can coach and custom fit at

the very highest level to completely tailored equipment and we’ve also launched golf-specific strength, conditioning and psychological training programmes for all ages,” added Ross.

Having left Ingleby Barwick Golf Academy, Ross has been able to branch out into new areas including a coaching/custom fitting system called Gears, which is currently only available at the likes of Wentworth and Archerfield in the UK. There has been positive feedback since the new facility opened and Ross intends to continue his work with juniors this season.

BEAMISH PARK A PARKLAND CLASSIC

Lindrick’s Lucia Maturi is back in the winner’s circle at the tender age of 10. Partnered

by Luke Jackson, who plays on the EuroPro Tour, the duo scored 40 points in the club’s annual foursomes event - the Brace Cup. Lucia became the youngest-ever winner in Lindrick’s history when partnering Jamie Shepherd to win the Presidents Cup aged just eight.

MIXED OPEN 4-Person Team

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GENTS OPEN Gents Four Ball Betterball Saturday | 15-Sep-2018 | (07:00 - 15:00) Visitors £9.00 Members £9.00

NORTHERN GOLFER 13

TEEINGOFF Get Smart, the ladies fashion retailer at Milkhope, Seaton Burn has teamed up with City of Newcastle Golf Club to sponsor its ladies team and will be hosting a fashion show in aid of cancer support charity Maggie’s at the club in May. Get Smart offers a selection of smart, stylish and casual clothing from brands including Gardeur and Robell.

Awards for Rockliffe and Slaley

Davy Cuthbertson receives the Gold Flag Award

Golf manager Jon Stacey receiving his award

Greenkeeper Jon Wyer accepting his award

ockliffe Hall has picked up three more national awards as Slaley Hall picked up two prizes at The 59club’s Excellence Awards.

The annual event took place at The Grove in Hertfordshire and Rockliffe was shortlisted for seven awards alongside other big hitters including The Belfry, Celtic Manor, Emirates, Gleneagles and Trump International Dubai.

The team from the Hurworth course was delighted when head greenkeeper Jon Wyer won Greenkeeper of the Year, director of golf Jon Stacey picked up the

Golf Manager of the Year award and the course was also handed the coveted Gold Flag Resort 2018 Award.

Meanwhile, Slaley Hall enjoyed two successes in 59club’s customer service awards.

The resort near Hexham won a bronze flag for its consistent performance through 2017 while Graham Auld, a member of the venue’s golf sales team, was rewarded for his competence and customer-friendly approach with the award for leading individual golf sales performance.

Eamonn Elliott, chief executive

of Rockliffe Hall, said: “It was another successful night for the Rockliffe golf team, who won two awards at the same event last year.

“To win awards together like this is a fantastic achievement, not least because Rockliffe hasn’t even been open 10 years yet while many of our competitors have been around for decades.”

Jonny Mould, head of golf at Slaley Hall, said: “We are very proud of the team for claiming both of these awards as excelling in customer service right across the board is one of our prime objectives.”

R

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TEEINGOFF

Whitburn score a winning idea

Michael Walker (right) receives his membership tag from Whitburn pro Greg Jobling

W

hitburn Golf Club has signed up to an innovative mutual sponsorship with its local football club.

South Shields Football Club’s

social media followers were asked to like and follow the golf club with a random winner receiving a year’s membership at Whitburn as six runners-up received a fourball voucher.

There will also be a monthly draw for additional fourball vouchers while the golf club will have an advertising board at Mariners Park and will host the SSFC Golf Day next month on Saturday May 12. SSFC players and staff will also enjoy reduced rates at the golf club.

Club treasurer Ian McConnell said: “Our professional Greg Jobling and I were warmly welcomed by SSFC managing director Keith Finnigan and commercial director David Mitchell. We discovered many ways in which we could be mutually beneficial in these challenging times. We are just over four miles apart and many of our members follow SSFC, and we hope their players, staff and supporters will enjoy our hospitality when SSFC aren’t playing.”

The winner of the Twitter competition was former Whitburn member Michael Walker, who now lives in Gateshead and is a member of Heworth.

Programme expands Greg Jobling has announced an expansion in his coaching programme including a partnership with the Sunderland Golf Centre.

The Whitburn pro will be teaching at the golf centre on part-time basis and said: “I can now offer Whitburn members the opportunity to have their lessons under a covered area in adverse weather conditions and when it gets dark as the range is floodlit. It will also be an opportunity to grow my teaching at a great facility.”

Greg is also hopeful he can attract beginners and new golfers from the South Tyneside and Sunderland areas, and has plans to introduce a junior coaching programme.

Lessons can be booked through Sunderland Golf Centre and the Whitburn pro shop.

Castle Eden Golf Club 18 Hole picturesque parkland course MEMBERSHIPS All categories available - Flexible payment options

JUNIORS UNDER THE AGE OF ELEVEN GO FREE AT CEGC (Free for a relation of a full seven-day member) Contact the club secretary for details.

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Castle Eden Golf Club, Castle Eden, TS27 4SS www.castleedengolfclub.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 15

TEEINGOFF Brian Rumney

United’s new signing

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OPENS 2018

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16 NORTHERN GOLFER

rian Rumney has taken on a new role as secretary/ professional at Newcastle United Golf Club after leaving Arcot Hall.

Brian plans to revamp the coaching and teaching set up at the Nuns Moor course, including launching a get into golf initiative.

Brian is no stranger to the administrative side of golf having held positions at Arcot Hall, Parklands, Hollins Hall and Blyth.

He will also be aiming to expand the teaching opportunities at the club while launching a scheme to attract newcomers to the game, which he hopes will benefit membership at United an other local clubs.

“It’s going to be interesting for the club and for me, and I’m looking forward to getting the free get

into golf scheme up and running,” said Brian. “The idea is to provide free taster sessions of four, one-hour group lessons so people can come along and have a go.

“We will provide the equipment and golf balls and they can see whether they like the game. From there they can move on to things like taster membership, academy membership and, hopefully, on to full membership.

“It’s all about steps. Having a membership form thrust under your nose early is too big a step - this way you can have a go at no cost and then think about it.”

Dates and times for the free classes are: May 8&9 18.30-19.30pm; May 19 11.00am-noon; May 22&23 19.45–20.45pm. To book, email brianrumney62@gmail.com or info@newcastleunitedgolfclub.co.uk

All change at Whickham

W

hickham Golf Club kicked off the new season with the launch of its 2018 junior programme and the opening of its clubhouse refurbishments.

Junior organiser Chris Sutton presented his ambitious 2018 programme to parents and juniors and hosted a number of challenges

for the juniors ahead of getting back on the course – with a free junior taster session taking place with EuroPro player James Simpson at the start of April. Meanwhile, the club has been busy improving its facilities with the new look bar now open.

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NORTHERN GOLFER 17

TEEINGOFF

Planning for the future Following the changes to the junior system in Northumberland, an elite squad of 13 boys and 10 girls have been selected for county coaching and support.

The junior system for boys and girls in the county is now under the Northumberland County Golf Union banner and is being administered by a new committee including chair Graham Forrest, secretary Irene Gillon and team manager Andy Minnikin.

Andy, who is also England Golf North Region Under 18 squad manager, said: “The junior system in Northumberland was in need of a shake up and we want to put a system in place to deliver a strong and successful pipeline of elite players into the men’s and ladies county squads.”

More information at www.nugc.org.uk

Scramble success

l-r Harry Hedley, Charlotte Naughton, Autumn Buchanan and Nathan Buchanan

T

he youngest golfers in our region are set to benefit from more events thanks to the success of the Winter Series Junior Texas Scrambles at Matfen Hall.

The events, organised by Bedlingtonshire’s Mark Sanderson, have brought together teams from clubs including Matfen Hall, Bedlingtonshire, Wearside, George Washington, Allendale, Alnwick, Longhirst and more throughout the winter months.

Each event saw 60-80 juniors take to the course, with victory for the teams from Matfen Hall, Morpeth, Allendale and a mixed team known as the Ice Men. Mark said: “It’s been really inspiring to see how much the kids have enjoyed coming down to Matfen despite winter weather.

“Having seen how successful the Junior Golf Tour is, I wanted to give juniors aged 5-13 a fun format

l-r Roan Smith, Jay Emmerson, Fraser Gilray and Arron Mansfield to keep them engaged through the winter months, and to get the support of Matfen Hall with use of the par three course has made it possible.

“We’ll be keeping it going this summer and hosting more events next winter.”

Following the success of the winter series, which was supported

by Ian Harvey from The Golf Foundation, two summer Texas scramble events will take place at Bedlingtonshire – on August 26 and September 23 – with another winter

Membership Available

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Sunday 30th September: GENTS Texas scramble, (3 Man Team) For all bookings ring 01670 787898 (option 1) or send a cheque to, Burgham Park Golf Club, Near Felton, Northumberland.NE65 9QP. BURGHAM, Nr FELTON, NORTHUMBERLAND NE65 8QP E : burghamparkgolfclub@gmail.com W : wwwburghampark.co.uk T : 01670 787898

18 NORTHERN GOLFER

series planned for Matfen Hall at the end of the season.

The summer events are open to CONGU registered juniors - who will play from the yellow/red tees over 18 holes - and non-CONGU registered juniors - who will play from the forward blue tees over nine holes. It costs £20 per team of four, per event. For more info email mark-sanderson@hotmail.co.uk

TEEINGOFF

Junior Masters back at Close House

F

ollowing the success of the Junior Masters at Close House in 2017, with the final played as part of British Masters week, the event is returning across the North East and Yorkshire this season.

Hosted by Close House and attached tour professional Lee Westwood, this year’s event is being held in partnership with Lookers Motor Group and PING, with the final to be played over Close House’s Colt Course on October 29.

Junior golfers from three age categories – U12, U15 and U18 – will compete in a series of seven local qualifying open competitions with the best nett scores earning a place in the final. The qualifiers take place at: Seahouses, Middlesbrough (Jul 27), Close House (Jul 28), Worksop (Jul 30), Durham City (Aug 13), Carlisle (Aug 13) and Bradford (Aug 27).

As part of the event, Lookers has also supported a programme involving more than 20 local schools, with Close House PGA professionals delivering

2017 winner Henry Joynson receiving the Junior Masters trophy at the British Masters coaching in schools and hosting schools’ festivals on the estate.

“We’re very proud to be involved with the Junior Masters event; it speaks volumes about the reputation of Close House that generating interest at the grass roots of the sport is such a high priority and that the event has been so well supported,” said Heike O’Leary, Lookers Group marketing director.

Wynyard Golf Club

Graham Wylie, owner of Close House, added: “The passion for golf is a big reason why the European Tour came to the North East, and we’re hoping to have a positive impact on junior golf within the region for years to come. Without the support of Lookers, the widespread initiative would not have been possible.” For more info go to www.closehouse.com/ lookers-junior-masters-2018

Storm open returns The Graeme Storm Junior Open in association with Dyke House College will take place at Hartlepool Golf Club on Monday May 7 and will also be a first round qualifier in The Telegraph Junior Golf Championship.

The event has four categories with the boys and girls competing in 11-14 and 15-18 age groups with a maximum handicap of 36.

A second event, the Mini Storm Trophy, will be held at Wynyard on Saturday May 19. The nine-hole competition over a shortened course is open to boys and girls aged 7-10.

The two events will raise money for the Finlay Cooper Fund. Anyone wishing to sign up for either of the competitions should go to www.graemestorm.co.uk

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• Wynyard 2 Ball - £99 per 2 ball, Includes Coffee & Bacon Rolls on arrival followed by 18 Holes of Golf.

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Contact Golf Bookings on 01740 644399 ext. 22 or email proshop@wynyardgolfclub.co.uk to reserve your tee time www.wynyardgolfclub.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 19

TEEINGOFF

Charity days back again Two popular golf days are set to return this season - both on June 22.

The Rotary Club of North Shields will host its 22nd annual charity golf day in aid of St Oswald’s Hospice at Tynemouth Golf Club. The Rotary Club has raised more than £109,000 for cancer and other life limiting condition charities. Teams for the event are £160 per team of four, including a two-course meal. For more information and to enter contact Richard Pickering, tel 07957 709 143 or email richardthegolfer@hotmail.co.uk Meanwhile, the annual Pig n Mix Sweet Company golf day will return to Rockliffe Hall in aid of CHUF at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital.

A total of 26 teams will take part in this year’s event, organised

by Stewart Bailey – who has raised more than £440,000 for local charities.

It’s in the bag for Neal

G

raeme Storm’s tour bag has helped swell Hartlepool captain Neal Thornley’s charity drive to more than £20,000.

Neal, lady captain Brenda Corney and club members and friends worked tirelessly to raise the remarkable sum, which went to Macmillan Cancer Support and Alice House Hospice as donations were also made to The Great North Air Ambulance and The Bubble Foundation.

Hartlepool captain Neal Thornley with wife Graeme Storm Angela and representatives from MacMillan with his tour bag Cancer Support and Alice House Hospice The money was raised across a number of events including a coast to coast cycle ride, the Great North Run, a Boxing Day dip in the North Sea and a 10 mile10 pub walk, as well as auctions and raffles.

Generous donations such as

that from Storm, who gave up the tour bag he used in his BMW South African victory, also helped towards the total.

“I was humbled by the generosity of those giving both their time and money in support of the charities,” said Neal.

Two North East clubs supporting the Finlay Cooper Fund Darlington and Bilingham golf clubs are supporting the Finlay Copper Fund with their charity efforts.

Darlington Golf Club lady captain Amy Gamble has already raised more than £2,200 while Billingham’s ladies section will be

staging a charity open next month.

Former Middlesbrough centrehalf and Hartlepool United boss Colin Cooper - who is now working with the FA - made the trip to Darlington to receive the cheque on behalf of the children’s charity set up in his late son’s name.

The Billlingham Lady Captain’s Charity Open will take place on Friday May 11.

Teams of four cost £60 to enter the tournament. To reserve a tee time, contact the club tel 01642 557 060 or go to billinghamgolfclub.co.uk

Book online via our web si

te www.boldo ngolfclub.c o.uk 25th April - Spring Seniors Open 4BBB

1st August - Ladies Open 4BBB

28th April - Junior Race to Rockliffe

16th August - Seniors Open 2 4BBB

30th May - Seniors Open 1 4BBB

27th August - Mixed Open 4BBB

23rd June - 36 Hole Scratch DCGU Order of Merit

1st September - Gents Open 4BBB

22nd July - Peter Metcalfe Memorial (Singles) Family Fun Day on 12th May - Follow us on facebook for more details Now available to book online at Boldon Golf Club website or download form from Golf Empire. www.boldongolfclub.co.uk

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T: 0191 5365360 E: info@boldongolfclub.co.uk Boldon Golf Club, Dipe Lane, Boldon NE36 0PQ 20 NORTHERN GOLFER

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DEANBAILEY

Dean Bailey

Rules of the game

I

Change is coming, but will it be good or bad for the average club golfer?

t has been a busy few months for The R&A’s rules team as the revisions to The Rules of Golf for 2019 have been unveiled following nearly a year of consultation.

Many of the changes proposed in the draft of the new rules in March 2017 remain the same and will be implemented on January 1, 2019 with a new, easier to use format for the rule book.

The big changes include: Dropping the ball – this will be from knee height (the draft rules had proposed dropping from any height to much criticism) Time for ball search – this has been cut to three minutes Repairing the green – you will be allowed to repair any damage caused by a person, animal or maintenance practice (so no more spike marks!)

Relaxed rules in penalty areas – you will be able to ground your club and move loose impediments in a penalty area (which used to be a water hazard). You will also be able to move loose impediments in bunkers – though you will not be allowed to ground your club next to the ball in the sand Leaving the flagstick in the hole – you will be able to putt with the flag in the hole should that take your fancy Accidentally moving the ball – this applies on the putting green and when searching for a ball and means you will no longer suffer a penalty for accidentally causing the ball to move – unless it is “virtually certain” you caused it to move Embedded ball – you will be able to take relief from anywhere in the general area (which used to be referred to as through the green) should your ball be embedded. This does not apply in sand

A big part of the new rule book also aims to improve pace of play. There is guidance on how long a player should take to hit a shot (40 seconds), Ready Golf - which we should all be using anyway, and a new strokeplay format in which committees can set a maximum score for a hole.

The R&A and the USGA have also added in that, so long as you do all that can be reasonably expected to make an accurate estimation or measurement, your reasonable judgement will be accepted even if later shown to be wrong by other means – so no more home video referees!

There was one very interesting addition which turned up – a new local rule which creates an alternative to stroke-anddistance penalties allowing players to: determine the spot at which their ball crossed an out of bounds line or hazard or where they deem it to have been lost; find the nearest fairway edge no closer to the hole; and drop their ball within two club lengths of this point for a two stroke penalty.

That’s the major changes, though there are a few more which you’ll need to look up ahead of next year.

So what will this mean for us? I hope it means faster rounds and fewer cases of despair as we watch the ridiculous ‘rulings’ from those who couldn’t pick out a rule book in a line-up never mind use the thing. I think the replacement of stroke-and-distance penalties for lost balls is bonkers mind. I’m looking forward to seeing where some of our less trustworthy peers deem their ball to have crossed the out of bounds fence – ‘no it wasn’t 300 yards from the tee Trevor, it was still rising as it went over the back gardens over the road’.

But, barring any problems with that optional local rule, the game’s governing bodies may well have got a hell of a lot right with this rules update. Good on them.

NORTHERN GOLFER 23

MAGGIEWHITEHEAD

Why Maggie may make it to the top 11-year-old Maggie Whitehead chats to Dean Bailey about her love of golf, what it was like to star on Sky Sports alongside Lee Westwood, and how the talented female golfers across the region are inspiring her to achieve more success in the future

S

uccess on the golf course and commitment to the practice ground often work hand in hand, and in 11-year-old Maggie Whitehead’s case the latter is proving key to her rising stock as one of the region’s most talented young players.

A winner of the US Kids Golf British Junior Championship at the age of nine, Maggie has already competed against some of the best players in the world at courses like Woodhall Spa, The Old Course at St Andrews and Pinehurst No.2.

The holder of one of four Michael Adamson Junior Golf Scholarships from Ramside Hall for this season, and part of the North of England Futures squad coached by JJ Vallely at Matfen Hall as well as the Northumberland county system, Maggie’s passion for golf will rival many in the region, if not the world.

“I practice most days of the week at Ramside and Close House and use our indoor putting green at home before I go to bed every night, which is nice when it’s raining all the time. I love working on my swing.

“I get to meet loads of different people from different clubs and from all over the world too. I also get to play so many different golf courses which have hosted events like The Open and US Open, which is pretty cool.”

24 NORTHERN GOLFER

Playing off a handicap of nine, Maggie will make her first appearances in some of the country’s biggest girls events this summer, including the English Girls’ Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship, the Scottish Girls’ and the Girls’ Under 16 Open Championship at Fulford. Add in representing the Ramside junior team and the county, and taking part in Futures coaching, which prepares players with the potential of making it into the North of England Girls’ squad, and it’s already shaping up to be a busy season.

“I’m really looking forward to playing some of the national under 14 and under 16 events this summer,” says Maggie. “I’ve got loads of time to play junior golf but I can’t wait to play with the best players in the country and see where I am compared to them.”

As part of the growing group of elite girls in the region, Maggie practises with and plays alongside England internationals like Caitlin Whitehead from Cumbria and is coached as part of the squads featuring the likes of Jess Baker, Rosie Belsham and Faye Wheatley.

“Faye is my best golfing friend. We play a lot together and with her granddad Tony McLure, who has taught me loads about what it takes to be a really good golfer,” adds Maggie.

“There are so many really good players in Northumberland and in the north region teams.

We’ve all learned so much from working with JJ and

MAGGIEWHITEHEAD

NORTHERN GOLFER 25

MAGGIEWHITEHEAD

it’s nice to have lots of really good players to spend time with and see how they’re improving.

“I really look up to Caitlin. She started where I did and when she was 11 her handicap was the same as mine. She’s coached by JJ too and she’s now in the national England squad and gets to travel all over the world representing the country.”

As one of the first players to win her place in the Junior Masters at Close House ahead of the British Masters last season, Maggie got the chance to meet and practice with Lee Westwood ahead of the tournament in front of the Sky Sports cameras, an experience she describes as one her favourites golfing memories so far.

“Meeting Lee and getting tips from him was amazing and it was really fun to play some games with him and do some challenges.

Lee does so much for juniors and he was really inspiring.

“I then got to play in the Junior Masters in the same week as the tournament, which was just incredible. I got to meet Sergio Garcia and loads of the best players in the world. They were all really friendly and I got loads of selfies with them.”

With such potential and such high praise from coaches, fellow players and her followers on social media, it’s no surprise Maggie has set her sights on reaching the top of the game.

“I’d love to be world number one, win a major, and be part of a winning Solheim Cup team,” she explains.

“This year I really want to get into the England north region girls’ squad and get my handicap down to six – I just need to keep getting better.”

Of course, none of this would be possible 26 NORTHERN GOLFER

Nicola, Andy and Maggie Whitehead

without the support of mum and dad Nicola and Andy, who attend each of Maggie’s events and have seen her progress from a two-yearold with plastic golf clubs in the garden to one of the region’s best young players.

“Maggie officially overtook my handicap of 10 last year so we’ve had some fun with that recently,” says Andy. “It’s every parent’s dream to see their child achieve their goals and we’ve got every faith Maggie will achieve hers as she’s so dedicated.”

“I may not be a golfer but I love watching it – whether it’s on TV or out on the course with Maggie,” adds Nicola. “She’s got such amazing drive to practice and improve so we just need to give her as many opportunities to achieve her dreams as possible.”

For now, it’s back to the putting green with the help of dad’s headlights before a final 10 minutes of putting practice at home before bedtime and chance to dream about where she may end up in the years to come.

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28 NORTHERN GOLFER

It has been a while since my last column in December and a lot has changed! My world ranking has improved by more than 200 spots to 79th, I won the South African Open, and played my first WGC! You’ve heard all about those so I’ll not bore you with the details again.

Since my last event in Mexico the schedule in Europe has been quite quiet so I am currently in Orlando preparing for the summer. My next event will hopefully be the Valero Texas Open, which I am trying to get a sponsor invite into. Failing that, I am playing the Zurich Classic with Tommy Fleetwood.

It is a pairs event on the PGA Tour and Tommy was kind enough to ask me to play with him. It should be an amazing week and I love the idea of having Tommy on my team rather than competing against him! We both expected to be paired with each other in the Walker Cup in 2009 but weren’t so this is our chance nine years later! After those events I will be heading back to Europe for the summer. I will most likely play the Belgian knockout then head to Wentworth for the PGA Championship.

While I have some time in Orlando I am working hard on my game, in the gym, and on my Big Green Egg barbecue. It is certainly a case of more of the same. I feel like I have a good recipe at present. I have a lot of clarity throughout my game. I know where I can make small improvements technically but I am continuing my ‘punishment’ practice which served me so well at the start of the season. My coach Andrew Nicholson just spent six days here with me and he seems happy with where my game is at. I also just joined Lake Nona Country Club which is only a few miles from our house and has possibly the best facilities I have ever seen. The idea is that the facilities, and being around some of the top players in the world, will help elevate my game even further. It’s also a delight to have a five minute drive to practice rather than 35 minutes!

I hope the weather has improved for you guys by the time this goes out. It has been a long winter in the North East!

Sunday Lunch at The Ship Inn & Golf at Close House FROM Dinner, bed, breakfast and a round of golf from £120 per person - please ask for details

55

£

PER PERSON

Other days, lunch and dinner options available

Main Road, Wylam, Northumberland NE41 8AQ Tel: 01661 854538 info@theshipwylam.co.uk www.theshipinnwylam.co.uk

NORTHERN GOLFER 29

ROUNDWITH

A ROUND WITH...

Laura McDonald European Golf Challenge managing director Laura McDonald shares her thoughts on working in the golf industry, what it’s like to work at some of the best golf courses in the world, and who would be in her dream fourball

W

hen it comes to dream jobs, Laura McDonald has got it just about perfect.

As managing director of European Golf Challenge she manages and helps to host golf events around the UK, across Europe and in the United States from her base in Newcastle with a team which grows to more than 20 each summer. An avid golfer as a teenager, her background in marketing and events in the hospitality industry and her love of golf combined nine years ago when she started the business and it’s been a great journey so far…

4 And further afield?

I’ve played so many amazing courses but one that really stands out is Bayonne Golf Club in New Jersey. It has the most spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and it’s just unbelievable.

1 With so many events through the summer, how do you fit golf in?

I spend pretty much every day of the golf season at the best clubs so I wish I had more chances to play. I love to play when I can and it tends to tie in with work so I’m lucky enough to play some of the best courses in the world when I do get my clubs out. I’m around an 18 handicapper at the minute and I love the social side of the game.

6 Which is your favourite golfing memory?

I’ve been lucky enough to visit some of the best courses in the world in the last few years with the business – there are far too many to list them all.

2 How did you get into golf?

My friends played when we were younger and I picked it up when I was 12. I wasn’t a natural at all but I used to spend hours on the driving range at Parklands in Gosforth and got better as I got older. I was at the golf club all the time until I went off to university, fell out of it a little bit then picked it back up as I started the business in 2009.

3 Which is your favourite course in the North East?

I love Close House and Rockliffe Hall. I find both tough but they’re beautiful venues and I love going back to them.

30 NORTHERN GOLFER

5 What’s your best ever round?

I’ve shot 85 before, which still stands out as a really good round. I was invited to the ShopRite LPGA Classic in Atlantic City last year, one of the biggest pro ams in America, and it was amazing to play alongside some of the best female golfers in the world. I’d definitely take that over a low score.

11 Which is your favourite club?

My six iron.

12 Who is your best golfing friend?

I grew up with Nicky Hunter and we spent loads of time together at Parklands, where she was a professional for a while.

13 Do you play any other sports? Does it help your golf?

I ski every winter and love the adrenaline of it, though it doesn’t do much for my golf.

14 Who is your favourite tour player?

Martin Kaymer is a favourite but if I had to pick one it would have to be Sergio Garcia.

He’s great to watch and comes across as such a lovely guy.

15 Which event do you enjoy the most?

I got to go to the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles and it was the most amazing experience.

7 What about embarrassing moments?

There are far too many of those too! I wasn’t a natural when I started so I can remember plenty of air shots from those early days.

16 Who do you admire?

I take a lot of inspiration from business people like Sir Richard Branson and Karen Brady, who have started with very little and created something incredible.

8 Do you have any superstitions?

Nothing that has stuck though I’ve seen some bizarre things at the events I’ve worked on – there are a lot of different wiggles out there!

17 Who is in your dream fourball?

Martin Luther King as he’s such an important figure; Donald Trump because I’d like to see what he’s really like and if his golf game is as good as he says it is; and Anna Wintour as fashion is my biggest passion outside of golf.

9 What are your strengths on the course?

I’m pretty solid with my irons, so I’ll say those.

10 And your weaknesses?

Definitely my short game. I’ve earned the nickname ‘the hammer’ so I need to work on having a lighter touch around the greens.

I need some lessons and to put some time into practising I think.

18 If I could offer you the chance to work on your dream event or a scratch handicap, which would you take?

I’m much more of a social golfer so I’d pick working with Michael Jordan on his threeday event in Las Vegas, which looks like the greatest golf event outside the Ryder Cup.

Laura (right) with Katie Brenny at Bayonne Golf Club NORTHERN GOLFER 31

COURSEPROFILE

Wonderful Washington Dean Bailey ventures south of the Tyne to find a resort which ticks all the boxes

R

esort courses can vary a lot - from merely acceptable to the fantastic - and from your first steps into the clubhouse at George Washington Hotel, Golf and Spa you know you’re in for a fantastic experience.

The modern clubhouse is linked to the 16-bay driving range complete with heated bays and six power tees, while you’ll also find a five-hole par three academy course and indoor simulator for your practising needs alongside an excellent bar/ lounge, pro shop and changing rooms inside. The luxury continues into the 103-bedroom hotel – which features the Carter & Fitch restaurant, a spa and leisure club. A further 22 executive rooms overlooking the course open this May. At the heart of the resort is the par 73 golf course, which can be stretched to 6,625 yards from the back tees. Opened in 1979, the tree-lined

32 NORTHERN GOLFER

fairways are reasonably generous, though beware wandering off into the trees as it can be tough to find, and tougher still to play, your ball. A warm-up on the range will come in handy with an opening par five of 488 yards. This dog-leg left requires a long drive to reach the corner, from which the hole plays downhill to a green guarded by two bunkers.

A tough par three of more than 200 yards follows. Club selection is key here to find the right portion of the two-tier green before heading to a par five of 502 yards, which calls for another long and accurate drive. Some may be able to reach the green in two here, though beware the ditch which crosses the fairway 120 yards from the front of the green.

Make the most of the par fives and you may well be off to a fast start, but the near 400-yard par four fourth will test your accuracy with the driver

and mid/long irons and there is plenty of trouble to catch those taking too big a bite out of the 512-yard par five fifth, where a water hazard runs to the left of the fairway while a pond lies 70 yards short of a small green with two treacherous bunkers.

Things get tougher still with the stretch of six to eight, which is dubbed Amen Corner by the members. Three tough par fours of 352 yards, 385 yards and 369 yards combine trees, rough and water – the latter crossing the landing areas on the sixth and seventh while trees narrow the landing area at the eighth - to create a challenging stretch most would be happy to play in par and move on. The middle of the stretch got our pick for signature hole (see fact file).

More out of bounds and a tricky tee shot follows at the 492-yard par five 11th. Long hitters will need to lay up from the tee to leave a shot into the largest

COURSEPROFILE

FACT FILE CONTACT George Washington Hotel, Golf and Spa Stone Cellar Road, High Usworth Washington, NE37 1PH Golf 0191 417 8346 Hotel reception 0191 402 9988 www.georgewashington.co.uk

part of the fairway and a simple pitch over the front bunker. You may try and cut the corner here – though the risk often outweighs the reward. The boundary again lurks at the right of the 12th, though a generous green is easy to find from the fairway.

The key to the 194-yard par three 13th is taking plenty of club. The front of the green lies some 20 yards past the bunker and anything which ends up in the bunker will leave a tough up and down. One of the toughest par fours on the course follows at the 14th, a dog-leg left of more than 400 yards with out of bounds right.

Long irons into the green must be well hit to avoid running into the back bunker while a second bunker left leaves a tough up and down.

The 15th, the shortest of the par threes at 153 yards, is a good birdie chance if you avoid the bunker left and find the right portion of the kidney-shaped green. A straightforward par four of 373 yards follows – we recommend laying up off the tee as the fairway narrows around 280 yards from the tee – before the final par five offers a chance to finish strong. At 494 yards, a good drive can give you a chance of getting up to the 17th in two with a generous green featuring one front bunker and a two more to the left and right.

While no pushover, the 18th can yield a finishing birdie chance should you hit driver over the ditch 220 yards from the tee to leave a wedge to green. A great way to finish a challenging course.

GREEN FEES From £22 Buggy hire £25 GPS electric trolley hire £12

The golf course at George Washington celebrates its 40th birthday this year and is set to be improved further in coming months. Additional drainage has been added to fairways in recent months while bunker renovations, work on wooded areas and new back tees on the ninth and 12th holes will improve the aesthetics and challenge of the course. Inside, the pro shop has been revamped and stocked with the latest equipment from PING, Callaway and TaylorMade, while PGA professional Ryan Ingram has established an excellent academy offering and junior programme.

TOTAL DISTANCE White tees - 6,618 yards Yellow tees - 6,285 yards Red tees - 5,737 yards FEATURES Spacious clubhouse with lounge/bar and balcony overlooking the first tee Changing rooms Pro shop 16-bay driving range Junior nine hole course Par three Academy course Excellent practice facilities CADDY’S TIP Though the fairways are generous you can’t spray the ball too far from the tee here SIGNATURE HOLE The seventh got our pick for signature hole as it comes in the middle of Washington’s Amen Corner and is a real test at 385 yards. It’s not a monster of a par four, but the rightto-left dog-leg with a ditch crossing the tree-lined fairway makes the drive tough while its small green will test the best putters out there. A hole as beautiful as it is deadly.

OUR VERDICT A great all-round experience with a top course and excellent facilities – what more can we ask for?

NORTHERN GOLFER 33

GOLFERGEAR

Springing into the new season The Masters is in the books for another year which means the 2018 golf season is finally here and it’s your last chance to start the season with some shiny new gear, including our picks this month from PING, Bushnell and Powakaddy plus some new threads from Oscar Jacobson and Mizuno.

FAST START

PING G700 irons RRP: £149 per iron (steel), £159 per iron (graphite) www.ping.com

It’s been a busy start to the year for PING with the launch of G400 Max driver, Glide 2.0 Stealth wedges and Vault 2.0 putters – and now the G700 irons.

Available this month, the new irons make use of a hollow body design to improve power and forgiveness through the set to create PING’s longest, highest flying irons to date.

The hollow body construction of the 17-4 stainless steel head allows for more weight to be positioned away from the face, creating a frame for metal-wood-like flexing and high COR to greatly increase ball speed and forgiveness.

FINE THREADS

Oscar Jacobson SS18 RRP: from £18 www.oscarjacobson.com

The new Spring/Summer 2018 collection from Oscar Jacobson is now available, bringing together technical fabrics with the brand’s world-renowned tailoring.

Available in sky/coral, naturals and electric colour themes, the new collection features a ‘course’ logo on the shoulder and includes Pima polos with cool-to-touch Ice Cotton, the new Waldorf mélange Egyptian cotton sweaters, new and improved Merino pullovers and sweaters, and the Carson Hybrid Jacket - which features the brand’s leading ultralight Primaloft technology.

34 NORTHERN GOLFER

GO THE DISTANCE

Bushnell Phantom, iON 2 and Hybrid RRP: £99 (Phantom), £149 (iON 2) and £399 (Hybrid) www.bushnell.com Bushnell has something new for every golfer’s distance measuring needs with the launch of the Phantom GPS rangefinder, iON 2 GPS watch and the Bushnell Hybrid – which combines a laser rangefinder with GPS technology. The Phantom rangefinder is simple and compact, and draws on Bushnell’s industry leading GPS technology while the iON 2 offers up to three rounds of battery life and a classic sports watch design with access to 36,000 courses worldwide. The Hybrid combines GPS technology to provide key measurements for each hole with a laser rangefinder to give pinpoint accurate numbers.

MAGDALENE FIELDS GOLF CLUB Berwick upon Tweed TD15 1NE

NEW MEMBER SPECIAL OFFER

JOIN NOW UNTIL 31st MARCH 2019 Adult £300 Seniors £280 Excellent Visiting Party Packages For further details telephone the Secretary on 01289 306130 e: secretary.m.f.g.c@hotmail.co.uk www.magdalene-fields.co.uk

NEW LOOK

Golf in the Scottish Borders

Mizuno SS18 apparel and shoes RRP: from £50 golf.mizunoeurope.com

Powakaddy Freeway and Compact C2i RRP: £499.99 (FW3), £549.99 (FW5), £629.99 (FW7) www.powakaddy.com

Powakaddy has updated its Freeway and Compact C2i electric trolleys ahead of the 2018 season. The smallest of Powakaddy’s electric options, the Compact C2i now features a 2.8ins full colour widescreen while still being able to be packed away in just two folds and weighing in at just 9.4kg. The Freeway is golf’s most successful trolley range and has been improved further with the addition of the FW3 and FW5 designs this season. The FW3 incorporates many of the ever-popular FW7’s best features while coming in at just under £500 while the FW5 adds further functionality and is available in gunmetal along with the newlook FW7.

Auld Cross Keys Inn

Restaurant • Public bar • Lounge • Patio ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence

(based on two people sharing) or single occupancy £95.00 per night. This will include Bed and Breakfast two course evening meal and a round of golf

Tel: 01450 870305

bookings@crosskeysdenholm.co.uk www.crosskeysenholm.co.uk

The Green, Denholm, Scottish Borders, TD9 8NU

Trousers, Cut-Offs, Bermuda Shorts for Lady Golfers in sizes 8 - 20 from

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Mizuno has added to its clothing and footwear line-ups for 2018. New apparel focuses on advanced climate protection – in its Solar Cut and Heat Protection Print fabrics which guard against infrared and UV rays - and includes three Solar Cut polos, a Stretch polo and a Melange Polo along with a midlayer ¼ zip top, a lightweight vest and a lightweight jacket.

Meanwhile, the NEXLITE Boa and Wave Cadence shoes are coming to Europe boasting technology from Mizuno’s leading running shoes. Wave Cadence uses the same technology trusted by marathon runners around the world while the NEXLITE Boa uses the Boa closure system in shoes weighing just 275g.

Traditional Country Inn ideally situated for playing MINTO, HAWICK, THE HIRSEL AND ROXBURGH plus many more. 12 en-suite bedrooms with tv, wi-fi, tea/coffee making facililties, Sky tv. Restaurant and bar serving cask ales (good pub guide)

ST Y L

www.getsmarttwo.co.uk Tel: 01670 789079 F Get Smart Two L @GetSmartTwo I @GetSmartTwo Milkhope Centre, Blagdon, Nr Seaton Burn, NE13 6DA NORTHERN GOLFER 35

MATCHPLAYPAIRS2018 MATCH PLAY PAIRS APPLICATION FORM For your chance to win a top prize in amateur golf, simply fill in this application form and send it to: Dean Bailey, Northern Golfer, Offstone Publishing, Unit One, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7AL DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: TUESDAY MAY 1, 2018

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HANDICAP GOLF CLUB

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Close House, our 2018 finals venue

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36 NORTHERN GOLFER

T

he entry deadline for our annual Northern Golfer Match Play Pairs tournament is approaching fast – entries close on Tuesday May 1.

Played throughout the season at venues across the North East and Yorkshire, Match Play Pairs offers the chance to compete against teams from across our region and win a place in the NE/NW PGA Overseas Pro Am – to be played in February 2019.

This year’s winning pair will team up with one of the North East’s best professionals in February 2019 for the NE/NW PGA Pro Am in Spain, as well as adding their names to the Matchplay Pairs trophy.

Played throughout the season, teams are drawn against one another in the knockout format,

played with 90% handicap allowance, with the final four teams making it to Close House for the semi-finals on Sunday October 7.

The final will be played over the Colt Course at Close House, official venue of the 2017 British Masters, on Sunday October 14 with the winning pair heading off to Spain courtesy of GolfingHolidays.org.

Read the full rules for the event online at www.northerngolfer.co.uk/ match-play-rules Enter online at www. northerngolfer.co.uk/match-playpairs/match-play-pairs-2018 or by using the entry form here.

For more information contact Dean Bailey, dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk or tel 01661 844 115.

ADVERTORIAL

NEW CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES New challenges and opportunities lie ahead for Peter Smith as he joins Tyneside Golf Club as their new General Manager. After 14 years of service to Matfen Hall he is taking over at Tyneside at a time when the club is looking to develop and push its newly opened Par 3 course and Practice Facility.

Speaking to Peter he says ‘ I was looking for a new challenge and experiences to further my career and when the role here was advertised and offered to me; it really was an opportunity too good to turn down. What particularly appealed to me was the historic nature and traditional member’s club environment, the superb reputation of the course and the exciting new development of the Par 3 and practice facility; it really wasn’t a difficult decision to yes to.’

In the first few weeks of his new role one of Peter’s main focuses is to get the Practice Facility operationally working and from Spring it will be operating a grass hitting driving range which will appeal to golfers across the region who

wish to practice from a grass surface rather than the usual range mats. The 6 hole Par 3 course will offer beginners and juniors the chance to take their first steps into the game and pathways of support in place to get them into the main club membership.

‘You get a real sense of the history of Tyneside by just walking through the door and I am looking forward to working with the club and Head Professional Gary Vickers as we look to stay true to its historic roots but also push the club forward and allow it to grow and develop in modern times. The all year round playability nature of the parkland course is undoubtedly the clubs best asset and the recent 5 year investment and course changes made by renowned designer Frank Pont have brought the course back to its Harry Colt design roots. ‘ There is certainly plenty to look forward to as the season begins and as the club is also looking forward to hosting England Golf’s Senior Series & England Golf Captains Tournaments in 2019.

Why not join a parkland club that’s playable all year round?

Memberships available from

£300

The natural, free draining nature of our land means we’re playable all year round

Curious? Opens also available online...

R FA

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For more information on our membership options, contact Peter Smith, General Manager peter.smith@tynesidegolfclub.co.uk

0191 413 2742

per annum

1879

TYNESIDE

GOLF CLUB tynesidegolfclub.co.uk

Westfield Lane, Ryton, Tyne & Wear, NE40 3QE 2018 TGC_Northern Golfer Half Page_March_Fin.indd 1

TYNESIDE GOLF CLUB

NORTHERN23/03/2018 GOLFER 37 18:21

YORKSHIREFOCUS

White rose county This month we head south into Yorkshire to visit four of the county’s finest courses

RIPON CITY GOLF CLUB Set in beautiful parkland, the 6,084-yard course at Ripon City will challenge players of all abilities.

The rolling Yorkshire landscape provides natural elevation changes and frames many of the holes, while a combination of water hazards and bunkers will punish players who are too aggressive or find themselves out of position.

38 NORTHERN GOLFER

The finest example of this is found at the par three 14th. This 162-yard hole is played over water to a green protected by a bunker at the front left corner. Members and visitors gathered in the clubhouse behind the green make this an even more daunting prospect.

Improvements to the course in recent years have added to the classic English parkland design,

while maintaining the original style of the course and its architecture.

The new clubhouse balcony will create a great place to relax for the 2018 season while new head greenkeeper James Kelledy has been receiving great praise for his work in recent months.

Ripon City Golf Club, Palace Road Ripon, HG4 3HH, tel 01765 603 640, www.riponcitygolfclub.com

YORKSHIREFOCUS WHITBY GOLF CLUB The spectacular clifftop course at Whitby Golf Club, which celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2017, is a must-visit.

From its commanding position on the edge of the cliffs, and with views around the North Yorkshire coast to Kettleness and across to Whitby harbour and pier with the Abbey ruins dominating behind, it can be tough to concentrate on getting your ball around the course.

Not too long, nor too difficult, the

layout punishes the wildest players with thick rough, while bunkering and run off areas will catch out many players who are not used to firm and fast conditions.

As with all links courses, the true difficulty of the course is defined by the wind – benign conditions will yield good scores here while a stern test awaits should the wind blow.

Whitby Golf Club, Low Straggleton Sandsend Road, Whitby YO21 3SR, tel 01947 228 892 www.whitbygolfclub.co.uk

ROMANBY GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

WHITBY GOLF CLUB

ROMANBY GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB You’ll find great views and challenging shots at Romanby Golf and Country Club, which sits on the River Wiske and follows the natural contours of the North Yorkshire landscape.

The course features an array of water features, including the river Wiske, while the greens here have

been constructed to a modified USGA specification.

You will find excellent putting surfaces right through to the end of the season, as well as a warm and friendly welcome in the clubhouse before and after your game.

Romanby Golf and Country Club Yafforth Road, Northallerton DL7 0PE, tel 01609 778 855 www.romanby.com

LATEST OFFERS 4 BALL SPECIAL Coffee & bacon sandwich on arrival 18 holes of golf From £60 per tee time

GROUP PACKAGES Coffee & bacon sandwich on arrival 18 holes of golf One course chef’s special

01609 778855  enquiries@romanby.com  romanby.com 

From £30 per player (9 or more golfers, terms and conditions apply)

Yafforth Road, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL7 0PE NORTHERN GOLFER 39

YORKSHIREFOCUS FULFORD GOLF CLUB Fulford, the Yorkshire course made famous by Bernhard Langer in 1981, remains a great test for golfers of all abilities – as we found out on a recent trip.

Widely regarded as one of the best courses in the North of England, Fulford staged 23 consecutive European Tour events between the 1970s and 1990s and saw major champion Langer climb an ash tree on the 17th during the Benson and Hedges tournament in 1981. The 6,900-yard course is now considered too short to host a tour event but it remains tough enough for any handicap golfer with its mix of three par fours of more than 400 yards in the first five holes, three superb par fives and a couple of brilliant short holes.

Fulford Golf Club, Heslington Lane, York, YO10 5DY tel 01904 413 579 www.fulfordgolfclub.co.uk

FULFORD GOLF CLUB

RIPON CITY GOLF CLUB • Perfect venue for visiting parties and societies Beautiful parkland course • Superb greens • A Great Yorkshire welcome awaits

POPULAR PACKAGES CATHEDRAL • 18 HOLE DAYS FROM £39 HORNBLOWER • 27 HOLE DAYS FROM £49 Days can be tailored to your requirements FREE GOLF VOUCHERS AS PRIZES FOR ALL VISITING GROUPS

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Palace Road, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3HH 40 NORTHERN GOLFER

SPRING OPENS 23 APR - MENS AM AM 17 MAY - SENIORS 4BBB 18 MAY - LADIES SCRAMBLE 19 MAY - MENS 4BBB 20 MAY - MIXED AM AM www.riponcitygolfclub.com

£60 per team £30 per pair £40 per team £30 per pair £50 per team

R&A British Girls (Under 16’s) Open Championship April 2018 Carris Trophy English Boys Championship July 2018 Bookings for visitor golf being taken on 01904 413579 ext 4 Visit www.fulfordgolfclub.co.uk for last minute green fee rates

Fulford (York) Golf Club

WHITBY GOLF CLUB

£12.50 Green Fees Quote ‘NG1892’ when booking, tee times subject to availability. The £12.50 rate is valid all day Monday and after 2pm Tuesday–Friday.

T&Cs apply

Green Fee/Meal Package from £25 per person Discounts for groups of 8 or more (8 for 7, 16 for 14 etc)

Open Days: Book Online

Whitby Golf Club, Sandsend Road, Low Straggleton, Whitby YO21 3SR tel: 01947 600660 | email: office@whitbygolfclub.co.uk | www.whitbygolfclub.co.uk

Seniors Betterball 1/6/18 & 31/8/18 Ladies Am Am 22/6/18 Mixed Greensomes 8/9/18 Four Man Team 1/9/18 Mens Betterball 13/10/18 NORTHERN GOLFER 41

GOLFERTIPS

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42 NORTHERN GOLFER

SWEET STRIKING

Many of the poorly struck shots I see week-in weekout are caused by players keeping their weight on their right side too long (for the right-handed golfer).

This lack of stability and correct weight transfer causes the hands to take over and creates ‘flipped’ and ‘scooped’ shots rather than the properly struck ones we’re all looking for to bring our scores down.

This drill is great for feeling where your weight shifts through the golf swing and improving your ball striking.

Using a mid-iron, take your normal stance with the ball positioned level with your left leg. From this position, move your right foot back behind you and leave only your toes touching the ground (just like in the picture).

Take a few short practice swings to get the feeling of your weight being stable and over the ball. You can then start to hit some half and three-quarter shots from this position. You should feel more stable and start producing better strikes in no time.

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GOLFERCOMPETITIONS

win Northern Golfer competitions are also listed on our website www.northerngolfer. co.uk/competitions Alternatively, you can enter via email at competitions@ northerngolfer.co.uk (mark the competition name in the subject field) or post your entry to: Competitions, Northern Golfer, Unit One, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7AL Please include your contact details and telephone number.

Closing date Thursday May 3, 2018.

Usual competition rules apply – available on request. Winners will be published in our next edition.

WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT ALNMOUTH GOLF CLUB Overlooking Foxton Bay, an area of natural outstanding beauty on the Northumberland coast, Alnmouth Golf Club has a long and distinguished history. Designed by HS Colt it is regarded as one of the finest golf courses in the North East.

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Who topped the Race to Dubai in 2017?

WIN A TRIP TO DUMFRIES FOR FOUR PEOPLE INCLUDING ACCOMMODATION, DINNER, BREAKFAST AND GOLF The Cairndale Hotel, Dumfries is again offering Northern Golfer readers a fantastic prize this month.

Located in the centre of town, the award-winning hotel is a fantastic hub for golfers with expert Golf Co-ordinator Kevin Potts on-hand to arrange visits to the finest courses in Dumfries & Galloway and down into Cumbria. The prize includes a full Scottish breakfast, a four-course Table D’Hote dinner, full use of the leisure facilities, free car parking, free wi-fi, a meet and greet with Golf Co-ordinator Kevin Potts, two bedrooms (twin or doubles for a party of four), and one round of golf at Dumfries & Galloway Golf Club (pictured above). Subject to availability of hotel accommodation and tee times.

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Who was the last player to record an albatross in The Masters?

WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT CASTLE EDEN GOLF CLUB

WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT ROMANBY GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

Set among ancient trees and with the castle giving a dramatic backdrop to the back nine, Castle Eden remains one of Co Durham’s finest parkland layouts. The key to good scoring over the 6,257-yard layout is accuracy.

You’ll find great views and challenging shots at Romanby Golf and Country Club, which sits on the River Wiske and follows the natural contours of the North Yorkshire landscape.

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Which course will host the 2018 Open Championship?

For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Who successfully defended the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in 2017?

Congratulations to last month’s competition winners: Cairndale Hotel - Dave MacSween of Hartlepool • Catterick - Alan Clavering of Boldon Hartlepool - Brian Towse of Middlesbrough • Centurion Park - Keith Higgins of Monkseaton, 44 NORTHERN GOLFER

WIN YOUR CHANCE TO

2 TITLEIST SM7 WEDGES WORTH

£260

LAST MONTHS WINNER DAVID ROBSON.

QUESTION : WHICH GOLF COURSE IS FAMOUS FOR HOSTING THE MASTERS? A : PEBBLE BEACH | B : AUGUSTA | C : THE BELFRY

EMAIL YOUR ANSWER TO: COMPETITIONS@ORIGINALGREEN.CO.UK COMPETITION CLOSES 30.04.18. WINNER WILL BE DRAWN RANDOMLY AND NOTIFIED BY EMAIL OPT IN CLAUSE AVAILABLE ON ENTRY TO RECEIVE FUTURE PROMOTIONAL EMAILS FROM ORIGINAL GREEN

WWW.ORIGINALGREEN.CO.UK VISIT US INSTORE AT LONGHIRST HALL GOLF COURSE

TITLEIST 917 DRIVER

WAS £399 NOW £299

PING G400 MAX DRIVER

Only £349

GALVIN GREEN

SS18 Available

SKECHERS GOGOLF SHOES

From £99

0% FINANCE AVAILABLE • CALL 01670 790439 FOR MORE INFO • FREE CUSTOM FITTING

10% OFF WHEN YOU SPEND OVER £75 ONLINE. USE DISCOUNT CODE NEGOLFER10 AT CHECKOUT T&C’S APPLY

Longhirst Hall G.C. N O R T H U M B E R L A N D

FULL MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE FOR JUST £565 INCLUDING £40 BAR CREDIT 0% DD AVAILABLE • JOIN OUR EVER GROWING GOLF COMPLEX 01670 791562 | enquiries@longhirstgolf.co.uk | www.longhirstgolf.co.uk

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Skipton Golf Club’s Trevor Scothern has proved age is no barrier to success by lifting the rabbits match play title at his home club at the age of 80 27 years after he first lifted the trophy.

Now playing off a handicap of 23, Trevor has held a handicap as low as 10 and joined members for the annual lunch to receive the trophy.

Congratulations Trevor.

Graeme Storm donned his county colours (and waterproofs) in his first official outing as honorary vice-president of the Durham County Golf Union as the men’s county side took on the juniors and seniors at Castle Eden Golf Club – the men’s team securing a 1.5-4.5 victory.

Graeme received the honour earlier this year having achieved national and international success as an amateur at Hartlepool and for Durham, and as a twotime European Tour winner.

Mike Dickson has joined the likes of Tiger Woods, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player as a winner of a green jacket at a Dr Alister MacKenziedesigned golf course.

Mike, a retired teacher and a member of South Moor Golf Club, won the first MacKenzie Masters tournament in 2017 – having qualified for the event with his first win since 1995.

He said: “I only entered at the last minute and when I look at the trophy now it reminds me of just how unpredictable golf can be!”

Congratulations Mike good luck defending the title this season.

46 NORTHERN GOLFER

Carlisle golfer Mike Kelly put 40 years of frustration behind him to bag his first hole-in-one after playing the popular Million Dollar Hole-in-One competition in Portugal.

Mike, 51, who plays off a seven handicap at Carlisle Golf Club, made his ace at Vale do Lobo’s Royal Course on The Algarve to book his place in the grand final in Las Vegas, where competitors get the chance to shoot for a whopping $1m.

Mike was among a group of 24 golfers who went on the trip to play Vale do Lobo’s two courses and paid just €10 to enter the MDHIO game.

His ace was on the temporarily shortened 105-yard seventh hole on the Royal Course. “I’m so looking forward to the Grand Final event in Las Vegas,” said a delighted Mike. “Yes there’s a chance to win $1m but let’s be realistic it’s taken me 40 years to get my first hole-in-one!”

Good luck in Vegas Mike.

ALL NEW 2018 EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING IN STOCK! MANY ITEMS AT SALE PRICES, SAVE £££S FOOTJOY PRO SL £129.99 NOW £99.00 (2017 MODELS ONLY)

MANY GREAT OFFERS ON EX DISPLAY SETS OF WOODS, IRONS & WEDGES

MANY PAIRS OF GOLF SHOES TO CLEAR EG. FOOTJOY AWD XL RRP £79.99 SALE PRICE £49.99 (2017 RANGE ONLY)

NEW QUALITY EPIC/ EPIC PRO AUTHORISED CUSTOM FIT EPIC SPECIALIST. ALL DEMONSTRATION IRONS STOCKED & ALL SHAFT OPTIONS AVAILABLE AT NO EXTRA COST! TOP PART EXCHANGES GIVEN, CALL IN TODAY , YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED.

MIZUNO NEXLITE SL SHOES RRP £79.99 SALE £49.99

PRICE PROMISE...

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NEW 2018 SKECHERS SHOES IN STOCK (WE STOCK FULL RANGE

(2018 MODELS) NEW TITLEIST 718 AP3, 718 AP2, 718 CB FORGED, 718 AP1, 718 T-MB

NEW WILSON C 300 WOODS/IRONS IN STOCK NEW TITLEIST SM7 WEDGES IN STOCK ALL LOFTS AVAILABLE

QUALITY TITLEIST/ CALLAWAY, LYNX, GOLF BAGS SAVE 30% NOW FROM ONLY £79.99

SELECTED SWEATERS, SHIRTS, TROUSERS, WINDTOPS

ALL 2017 GALVIN GREEN CLOTHING & WATERPROOFS

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NEW CALLAWAY GOLF ROGUE DRIVER

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FANTASTIC SAVINGS THIS MONTH ON SWEATERS,SHIRTS, WATERPROOF CLOTHING & WINDPROOF GARMENTS 30- 50 % DISCOUNT ON SELECTED LINES

(NEW CUSTOM FIT CLUBS IN STOCK) (AUTHORISED TITLEIST FITTING CENTER)

TAYLOR MADE NEW TWIST FACE FOOTJOY, SHIRTS, SWEATERS, TECHNOLOGY M3/M4 WOODS TROUSERS

NEW KING F8 DRIVERS/ FAIRWAYS/ RESCUES IN STOCK ALL TITLEIST 917 D2/D3 DRIVERS IN OUR SALE

EVERYTHING 30% OFF!!

NEW MIZUNO GT180 & ST180 WOODS. WE ALWAYS GUARANTEE BEST PRICES

THIS MONTH ONLY

ALL TITLEIST 917 F2/F3 FAIRWAY WOODS IN OUR SALE

WE PRICE CHECK ALL OUR STOCK ONLINE TO MAKE SURE YOU GET THE LOWEST PRICE ALWAYS (PRICE PROMISE) How to find our superstore Leave A1 (m) at junction 63 Chester-le-Street and follow B693 to Stanley, turn left onto B6532 (Asda roundabout), follow road to end and turn right, pass Blomfomtein School and follow sign to South Moor Golf Club

Your No 1 Discount Golf Store

Shaun Cowell PGA Golf Professional - Tel: 01207 283 525 South Moor Golf Club Superstore, Craghead, Stanley, DH9 6AG

Open Mon - Sun 9am - 6pm Early opening at weekends All major credit cards accepted

Eye Appeal The Stealth finish inspires confidence and improves ball interaction for added spin.

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Combining the soft, responsive feel of 8620 carbon steel, sharper grooves and a distinguished dark finish, the Glide 2.0 Stealth wedges will fit the game and the eye of players for whom performance and appearance go hand in hand.

Visit a PING Fitting Specialist or PING.com today.

Š PING 2018

Find Your Grind Four sole options (SS, WS, TS & ES) to fit your game.

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Face Innovation Precision-milled ½ groove low on the face improves engagement with the ball to greatly increase spin for precise control.