Suffolk & norfolk march april 17 web

Online: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

SUFFOLK & R NORFOLK E F L O G MARCH/APRIL 2017

Societies Welcomed

• Special Packages from 18-36 holes.

• Groups 8 – 60

• Real Home Cooked Food

• From £28 - £49.50

Membership

• No Joining Fee

• Ladies Gents & Juniors, • Subscriptions can be paid monthly.

• Special Deals Under 30’S.

Ring Bob Tawell on 01473 725648 for more details. info@rushmeregolfclub.co.uk www.rushmeregolfclub.co.uk

Halesworth Golf Raises over £22,000 for Charity Over the last twelve months members and visitors at Halesworth Golf have raised over £22,000 for local charities including ‘Halesworth Community Nursing Care Fund’, ‘Community Network’ and ‘The East Anglian Air Ambulance’ Money was raised through organising charity golf days, members’ competitions, auctions, raffles and social nights.

2016 Halesworth Golf Captain Ian L-R : Andy Jennings (Captain) Ben Townsend (Manager) Ian Stannard (2016 Captain) Stannard said “It’s a huge team effort from everyone involved at Halesworth Golf and I would like to thank them all for their hard work and support throughout the year, it’s great to be able to support charity’s which are going to benefit the local community”.

A massive thank you went to the organisers of the charity golf days and social events, including Gary Slaymaker, Ashley Turner, Ted Edwards and Rob Sherington and to everyone who either played, supported or volunteered at any of these events.

Halesworth Golf is situated just a few miles from the beautiful Suffolk Heritage Coast and is set in 190 acres of stunning undulating countryside. They offer a wide range of top class facilities, including an 18-hole championship course and a 9-hole pay-and-play course, a 9 bay floodlit driving range, a practice chipping and putting green and a very well stocked golf shop. The modern lounge, bar and restaurant provides a wonderful relaxing space to enjoy food and drink with unrivalled views over the course and adjoining countryside.

NON-MEMBERS MOST WELCOME! www.halesworthgc.co.uk • info@halesworthgc.co.uk

RUSHMERE DOES IT AGAIN! The Golden Sausage Society votes Rushmere Golf Club as “Host Club of the Year” for the second year running!

L-r: David Driver, Sean Payne, Bob Tawell, Michael Buck, Kelvin Vince & Patrick Swinn

LIMITED PLACES THEATRE ROYAL BURY ST EDMUNDS GOLF DAY 6th April The popular event will be held Thursday 6th April 2017 at Haverhill Golf Club. £100 per team of FOUR. Includes: Coffee & Bacon Roll, Lunch, Prize table, Raffle To put in a team, turn to page 18

ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

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From your Suffolk Golf County Development Officer Jordan Dymond

The Value of a PGA Professional On my visits to various golf clubs, I quite often chat to club members and inevitably the talk leads to how they have played on that day. More often than not the response is something like ‘I should have stayed in the clubhouse’! When I ask if they have lessons, I then get comments like ‘No, I’ll try and figure it out next time I play’. Rather than struggle through this frustration alone, why not seek help from a qualified PGA Professional?

Speaking as someone who has had many golf lessons (and suffered several losses of form!), the above pathway is critical to how I feel about playing golf. Below are my thoughts on the first of the above stages and how I feel before and after a lesson with my PGA Professional.

Confident, Competent and Connected Before: • Lacking in confidence • Not interested in playing competitions • Not wanting to attempt ‘high risk’ shots during round • Not wanting to play as much due to poor form Firstly, a PGA Professional often brings a wealth of After: expertise and knowledge that can have a positive impact on several facets of the golf club business. • Much more confident This can range from driving up revenue to teaching • Signs of improvement during/after lesson and encouraging the next generation of golfers and • Something to work on members. The importance of the PGA Professional • Eager to practice and put in play what I had learnt • Confident enough to attempt variety of shots is highlighted by the wide-ranging roles they have without fear of failure throughout the golf industry. Within the golf club These changes came from just a handful of itself this can cover numerous areas such as a individual lessons with my PGA Professional, but the traditional golf professional, Director of Golf and difference in how I viewed my golf changed beyond expert coach and retailer. Whether we are recognition. The advice I was given made me feel struggling with our putting or in need of a club like I had something to focus on during each round repair, our PGA Professional is always on hand to of golf. By sticking to the process, I played much offer a solution. better golf in the weeks after the lesson. I also A good PGA Professional is a revenue generator reached my own ‘champion’ stage by beating my for a golf club. They are often the first point of handicap on a regular basis, for the first time in contact for members and guests and should be a many years!

‘Director of First Impressions’!

So, if you are looking to: A PGA Professional can help a golfer to identify * Enjoy playing the game more and achieve their goals and ultimately enjoy the * Beat your regular playing partners! game more. This helps increase member retention * Reduce your handicap or continued participation. The pathway below may * Perform better in competitions highlight the thinking of a PGA Professional when a * Understand what causes your bad shots golfer looks to take a course of lessons: * Hit the ball further and straighter * Strike the ball more consistently Can I help the participant be more: * Have fewer putts • Confident * Get up and down more • Competent * Hit better bunker shots • Connected * And a whole lot more!

Why not contact your local PGA Professional today Can I insure they: who will be pleased to help...

• Continue Keep Golfing! Best wishes, Jordan To the point they become: email: j.dymond@englandgolf.org • Converted Mobile: 07710 701274 Twitter: @SuffolkGolf And eventually become a: www.suffolkgolfpartnership.co.uk • ‘Champion’ The PGA Professional is an incredibly valuable asset to a club and its members. I thought I’d take this opportunity to reiterate what a PGA Professional can offer us as golfers and how they can benefit the club as a whole...

The Park Restaurant at Ufford Park Hotel, Undergoes Transformational Refurbishment

Following extensive refurbishment of a number of its bedrooms over the past two years, Ufford Park Hotel has now turned its attention to its public areas. In particular, this has meant the hotel’s ‘Park Restaurant’ which has just undergone a stunning transformation.

Tarnia Robertson, Ufford Park Hotel’s Managing Director and her PA Claire Flude, worked alongside Concept Textiles to produce a contemporary yet practical design for the 80-cover dining area. Curtains have been replaced with linen drapes and a bespoke carpet was designed in gold, blue and brown hues. The restaurant’s existing chairs and benches have been either reupholstered or replaced, and two booths designed to comfortably seat 5-7 people for either breakfast or dinner have been created. On the wall above the booth seating, an original piece of art has been transposed onto vinyl in the shape of an abstract wave - appropriate given the hotel’s proximity to the Suffolk coast.

The restaurant’s original suspended ceiling has been totally renovated by the addition of four huge, eye-catching lighting panels, from which are The 2016 Diss Golf Club Seniors suspended 80 drop lights, giving the overall Captain's Charity raised £1,600 effect of movement in a previously unremarkable ceiling. for Macmillan Nurses Local companies Eric Dines and Steve Mattock worked hard to lay the carpets, the hard flooring and to install the electrics ahead of the Concept Textiles element of the project.

Tarnia Robertson said: “We have been delighted by the feedback we have already received from customers and members. In order to manage the allocated budget, the work was undertaken over a three-month period, and seeing it slowly transform made seeing the final result even more exciting. We are confident that this significant investment will build the Park Restaurant’s reputation as a destination for good food and great ambience, and will attract even more local residents who enjoy dining out.”

Above is Steve Jacques, 2016 Seniors Captain, presenting the cheque to Helen Glenholmes, Macmillan Fundraising Manager for Suffolk & Waveney.

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Suffolk Golf Union Suffolk Golf Union Current Officers and Members of the Executive Committee President: Phil Platten (Woodbridge) Tel: 01394 461246; Vice President: Colin Firmin (Ipswich) 01206 298742 Honorary Secretary: Charlie Wilderspin (Rookery Park) Tel: 01502 588028 Treasurer: Geoff Henney (Aldeburgh) Tel: 01728 685525 Executive Committee: Ray Baines, Championship Secretary (Felixstowe Ferry) Tel: 01394 276076: Brian Brandwood (Southwold) Tel: 01502 723885: Bill Darling (Stowmarket) Tel: 01449 615854: Colin Firmin (Ipswich) Tel: 01206 298742: Mike Rees (Rookery Park) Tel: 01502 568941: Tony Rubin (Woodbridge) Tel: 01473 785350. County Captain: Jack Cardy (Hintlesham) 07738 536769 Other positions: Chairman Suffolk Junior Golf: Mike Stevenson (Thorpeness) Tel: 01728 603521; 2nd Team Captain: Calvin Sherwood (Bungay & Waveney Valley) 07450 952622; Seniors Captain: Kevin Brooks (Hintlesham) Tel: 07796 263234; County Referee: Mike Rees (Rookery Park) Tel: 01502 568941 EGU Delegate: Tony Rubin (Woodbridge) 01473 785350; SE Group Delegate: Tony Rubin (Woodbridge) 01473 785350; Standard Scratch Lead Assessor: David Barnes (Stowmarket) 01787 311778 Ecology Officer: Michael Thomas (Ipswich) Tel: 01394 283973.

Suffolk Junior Golf Committee: Chairman: Mike Stevenson (Thorpeness) Tel: 01728 603521: Secretary: Will Wright, T. 07811 405289 Managers: Under 18s: Trevor Mason (Felixstowe Ferry) Tel: 01394 274331: Under 16s: Jim Harrison (Woodbridge) 07866 639769: Under 14s: Ashley Hughes, T.07734 135154 Under 12's Ashley Hughes -As above Head Coach: Keith Preston (Aldeburgh) Tel: 01728 453309: Suffolk Schools David Wright T: 01473 255917 County Child Protection Officer: Stuart McCallum (Ipswich) Tel: 07506 444082

www.suffolkgolfunion.com Welcome from the President of the Suffolk Golf Union

Phil Platten The USGA and R&A have agreed proposals for thirty of rules changes, with the goal of simplifying and speeding up the game with an earlier implementation date of 2019.

The proposed changes have been circulated for consultations throughout the golf world. They include allowing players to repair marks left by shoe spikes on the greens; eliminating the club length as a measurement of taking relief; reducing the amount of time players can search for lost balls from five minutes to three; making use of yellow stakes in some hazard areas while placing more emphasis on using red stakes for water hazards; and allowing players to drop a ball from any height they so choose when taking relief instead of the standard shoulder-height and many more. Anything that simplifies the Rules and attracts more players to the sport will be most welcoming. The one proposal that is intriguing is the use of distance measuring devices (DMD) into the revised Rules. The question is, will the professional caddie be allowed or ‘instructed, to use a DMD during tournaments. If the professionals speed up a bit, it will no doubt have a beneficial impact on amateurs.

By the time you pick up this magazine, my good colleague Colin Firmin will have been appointed as Suffolk Golf Union County President. I have benefited from his excellent support these past few years and wish him every success and enjoyment in his new role.

Keep enjoying your golf and remember - it is only a game.

Au Revoir

Anyone wishing to submit articles or comments should email suffolkgolfer@aspects.net Next Issue: MAY/JUNE Deadline 10th May For Summer Specials, Memberships, Offers and Club Promotions.

Golfers on your doorstep! If you’re not in - you won’t win!

ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

7

From

Trevor Mason

Chairman of the Junior Committee I am writing this article before the Suffolk Golf Union AGM but, if everything has gone to plan, by the time this appears in print I will have been installed as the Chairman of the Junior Committee. If someone else has been voted in as Chairman please disregard all that follows! Somehow I suspect that might not happen.

The first thing I must do is pay tribute to my predecessor, Mike Stevenson, who for the past seven years has led the County junior Keith Preston (Head Coach), Patrick Spraggs (Under 18 section with amazing enthusiasm, drive and manager), Jim Harrison (Under 16 manager and Trevor Mason energy. Mike is passionate about junior golf and has overseen considerable success Patrick when he was playing for the Under 16 team by all age groups, and it is widely appreciated that and even then it was pretty obvious that he would Suffolk punches above its weight considering the be a successful golfer. I am sure that he will be a relatively small number of clubs in the county. He great inspiration for our young golfers who are now will be a hard act to follow and I can forgive him for aiming to follow in his footsteps. being a Peterborough United supporter! I should Will Wright has joined the team as our Junior also give his wife, Mary, a mention for the Secretary, which will take a considerable unstinting support she has given Mike whilst he has administrative burden from the managers and from been in the role.

Charlie Wilderspin and Bill Darling of the Executive Having been the manager of the Under 18 team for Committee. Will, too, has a distinguished past in the past 10 years I felt it was time to move on and representing the county and he has very kindly, in get younger people involved with our juniors, and his own words, offered to ‘give something back’. the suggestion that I take over from Mike as I also want to thank Phil Platten for the support he Chairman seemed the logical thing to do. has given to the juniors in his role as SGU I have inherited a great team of managers and President. Phil has frequently taken time in his very coaches. Jim Harrison (Under 16 manager) and busy life to attend coaching sessions and matches Ashley Hughes (Under 14 and Under 12 manager) which has been very much appreciated. Our are really enthusiastic and do a great job with their incoming President, Colin Firman, has already respective age groups. What more can I say about shown us that he will continue in the same way and Head Coach, Keith Preston? Keith has been we look forward to making him equally proud of our looking after coaching in the county for more years boys. than 25 years and his passion for helping boys The winter coaching for the Under 18 and Under improve their game has never diminished in all 16 age groups has now been completed, and we those years. This year Keith has recruited even are very grateful to Aldeburgh Golf Club for more coaches from around the county to be allowing the boys to use their excellent facilities. involved with the various age groups and I am Throughout the sessions the boys have been grateful to all of them for their input. undertaking skills tests covering all aspects of the We have been very fortunate in having Patrick game: putting, chipping, pitching, bunker play, long Spraggs take over the Under 18 team from me. game and on the course. They were awarded There will be very few golfers in Suffolk who have scores each time they undertook a test and at the not heard his name and know of his achievements conclusion the scores were collated and a trophy on the golf course in the last few years. I first met awarded to the winner of each of the two groups.

EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING: Tel: 01255 242141 E-mail: suffolkgolfer@aspects.net www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com Publisher: Linda Basham Opinions, comments and reports in Suffolk & Norfolk Golfer are not necessarily those of the SUFFOLK or NORFOLK COUNTY GOLF UNIONS or the Publisher.

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ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

FRONT COVER RUSHMERE GC 18th Fairway

The winner of Group 1 was George Fricker (Ufford Park) and the winner of Group 2 was Jack Butcher (Gorleston). Their trophies were presented by Mike Stevenson at the end of the final coaching session. George’s performance was very impressive throughout the winter and he won the Group 1 tests by a considerable margin. Jack’s victory was by just one point and was an excellent achievement as it was the first year that he has been involved with the county.

George, Mike and Jack

As the weather improves, we look forward to another successful golfing season for our junior golfers. Without the commitment of parents, grandparents and other relatives in taking their youngsters the length and breadth of the county and beyond for coaching sessions or to represent Suffolk there would be no county junior teams, so we owe all of them a huge debt of gratitude.

Right: Under 18 boys in the clubhouse at Aldeburgh during their final coaching session of the winter.

CARPET PUTTING TIP

by Robert C Cross, Halesworth and Southwold Golf Clubs It is simply this: for Winter putting at home, instead of using coins or playing cards as targets, which can irritatingly move about on the carpet, put down a tin lid with its pull-tag away from you.

The pull-tag will anchor the lid to the carpet and the quality of the sound of the ball passing over the lid will indicate the accuracy of the putt.

The real benefit of this is that you can keep your head down, while waiting for the sound from the ball striking the lid.

Simple!

If you have any TIPS to share, please send them in to suffolkgolfer@aspects.net ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

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Clacton-on-Sea Golf Club West Road, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 1AJ Telephone: 01255 421919

WELCOMES VISITORS, SOCIETIES & NEW MEMBERS As well as the quality 18 hole golf course, Clacton-on-Sea Golf Club also boasts the following facilities: • Lounge Bar & Restaurant; a warm inviting Clubhouse, perfect for the pre match drinks, breakfast or lunch.

• Sky TV; watch the golf, football, rugby, in the comfort of the Clubhouse.

• Function Room; available for hire. Ideal for a Wedding, Party, Anniversary.

• The Golf Store; run by our Club Professional Michael Goodwin and his team.

• Golf Coaching; individual or group golf lessons run by PGA Qualified Golf Professionals.

• Swing Studio/Golf Simulator; located inside The Golf Store.

• 10 acre practice field • Practice putting green • Practice chipping area • A fleet of golf buggies & trolleys for hire

MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE Tel: 01255 421919 email: manager@clactongolfclub.com www.clactongolfclub.com

The Clubhouse overlooks the 18th green providing a relaxing atmosphere and a comfortable and social environment where you can enjoy a drink and traditional home made food with your family and friends.

We offer a warm welcome to new and old Visitors, Golf Societies and Green Fees. Come and visit us soon and see why we are so proud of our Club.

Nick Reiss Memorial Trophy and the Sam Jaggard Trophy by Trevor Mason Sam and Jane

Liam

Each year the Suffolk Junior Committee award the Nick Reiss Memorial Trophy and the Sam Jaggard Trophy to the Under 18 player and Under 16 player respectively who have not only shown excellent golfing ability but have also demonstrated high standards of behaviour, sportsmanship and leadership and set an example to their peers.

For 2016 Sam Byford (Ipswich) was awarded the Nick Reiss Memorial Trophy. He had achieved the unique feat of winning the county Suffolk Amateur Championship as a 16 year old and the Suffolk Junior Championship as a 17 year old. It is unlikely that the two championships will be won in that order again. Sam also regularly represented the men’s second team in the Anglian League. His conduct, application and attitude has been exemplary and he was is a very worthy winner. A very interesting fact about Sam is that he gained a pilot’s licence before he took his driving test! Sam was presented with the trophy by Mrs Jane Reiss-Watson who donated the trophy in 2001 in memory of her late husband.

Liam Hansey (Bungay and Waveney Valley) received the Sam Jaggard trophy. He represented the Under 16 team with distinction and was also selected to play for the Under 18 team. Liam showed commitment and enthusiasm throughout the coaching sessions and playing season and impressed the coaches and managers with his dedication to the game and his conduct on and off the course. He will be a valuable member of the Under 18 section in the coming year.

WHO HAS TIME TO TRAWL THE INTERNET FOR GOLF OFFERS AND DEALS? SOCIETY’S SEE OUR ADVERTISED PACKAGES AND JOB DONE!

ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

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Flexible Membership … a golfing opportunity to suit your way of life Value for money only £400 a year for 20 rounds of golf

…. and still enjoy many of the benefits of being a member of this popular club!

Stowmarket Golf Club Lower Road, Onehouse, Stowmarket IP14 3DA www.stowmarketgolfclub.co.uk ~ tel: 01449 736473

JOHN JACOBS - a wonderful teacher

by Michael Thomas Peter Ballingall's appreciation of John Jacobs in the last issue of S&N Golfer, prompted some personal memories.

Way back in the early 1950's I was at school in Hertfordshire. A notice went up offering free golf lessons to six boys. These were to be at the local Sandy Lodge course.

My appetite for golf had been whetted some years earlier when I was one of a small group of urchins who used to illegally play some of the remotest holes on Harewood Downs golf course near Old Amersham. We shared an old cut down brassie cum play club between us and used it for driving, approaches and putting. I wish I still had that wonderful implement.

Back to Sandy Lodge and 4 or 5 turned up for our first lesson. Clubs were provided and we were taken through the basics - grip, stance, swing plane etc. But it was soon noticed that the pro seemed to give much more of his attention to one of our number - we'll call him “S”.

After a while interest waned and most of us returned to our respective cricket XI's to play “a proper team sport” as my house master put it.

Fast forward now to 1970,when I forsook cricket for golf. Fred Schwer, the professional at Felixstowe took great pains in getting me started on the right lines. He said I only need one instruction book which was Ben Hogan's The Modern Fundamentals of Golf. However, like most golfers trying to improve, I read avidly about the game and it was like a light being switched on when I discovered John Jacobs' Practical Golf. His approach was so simple, logical and relaxed - it meant complete sense to me and has been a book I have returned to time and time again. His emphasis on the grip made a lasting impression

run by Peter Ballingall at Barnham Broome GC in Norfolk. There were ten of us and we had to focus on self imposed objectives and work really hard.

It was a great time and we enjoyed good company and the excellent dinners we felt we had earned at the end of each day.

Peter taught the John Jacobs approved system and explained that to claim this, amongst other things, a professional had to pass a particular test which was based on JJ's assertion that you would have great difficulty in improving your golf if you did not understand why the golf ball reacted in a certain way.

The professional and pupil would be separated by a screen so they could not see each other. When the pupil hit a shot, based solely on its flight, the professional would then have to give instruction as to how it might be improved.

Barnham Broome was the venue for another memorable event when John Jacobs gave a clinic before a ladies' professional tournament there. The weather was not good but we motored up from Felixstowe, paid £1 and got ourselves seated on straw bales on trailers in a semi circle - umbrellas over our shoulders. JJ appeared in the arena and assisted by one or two of the lady professionals, proceeded to demonstrate the way the golf ball should be struck - I recalled for many weeks afterwards the smooth “If you are an established golfer, but feel you have never tempo and poise with which he got the ball to do exactly what he wanted. The rain was now lashing down and JJ reached your full potential at the game, it is a 5 to 1 decided he had had enough. “Meet me in the bar in 30 chance that your grip is at the root of your problems” minutes” he announced and so we did. Dry and warm and “The majority of golfers never develop a proper once more, John treated us to over an hour of chat and grip” - food for thought for so many of us. JJ agreed with the old saw that “You never see a bad golfer with a anecdotes about his golfing experiences throughout the world - what a day for just £1! good grip or a good golfer with a bad grip” But what about Mr. “S”? It all became clear when I was playing in the Cyril Gray Tournament at Worplesdon GC one year. I was in a team of six of which most were London based. I saw the entry “S” on the sheet and remembered the name. I was told he was “something in the city”, seldom practised but was a near scratch golfer.

He did not turn up so I never got to meet him again or Another revelation or milestone in my “epic golfing witness the talent that John Jacobs had obviously career” was when I went on a three day coaching course recognised those many years ago.

As John Jacobs' career blossomed I learned that his early years as a professional were at Sandy Lodge suddenly I realised what an opportunity had been scorned. What one would give now to have had a course of lessons with the great man - even if you had had to pay.

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Stonham Barns 2017 Footgolf Tournament dates Following on from the success of their eight Footgolf Tournaments last year, which included the Suffolk Footgolf Open and the Stonham FootGolf Players Championship, Stonham have announced the dates for this year’s tournaments.

Play will be over 18 holes and everyone is welcome to come along and play, men, ladies, families and juniors. The entry is £10 for adults and £5 for juniors.

Tournament Dates 2017 Sunday 24th April - 2pm Sunday 21st May - 2pm Sunday 18th June -2pm - Suffolk Open FootGolf Championship Sunday 23rd July - 2pm Sunday 20th August - 2pm Sunday 17th Sept - 2pm Sunday 30th Oct - 2pm - Stonham Players FootGolf Championship To enter call Stonham Barns Footgolf on 01449 711545 or visit their website www.stonhambarnsgolf.co.uk

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Footgolf has really taken off in the UK and it’s now the fastest growing sport in the country with over 200 clubs now open for footgolf.

The Suffolk footgolf course at Stonham Barns was one of the first to open in 2013 and they have been amazed by the popularity of the sport and last year had over 5,000 people playing footgolf around the course including a number of past Ipswich Town stars, John Wark, Russell Osman and Kieron Dyer who all really enjoyed their games.

ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

GOTTA NICE MOTOR? NICK NEEDS TO KNOW Nick Thomson, self-confessed lover of stylishly designed cars, is heading a campaign to encourage Newton Green Golf Club members to reveal their classic vehicles.

The club is staging an historic vehicle display as part of its 110th birthday celebrations, which open the annual golf week in August.

Nick, a Lancia enthusiast, is no stranger to such events, having been the founder organiser of the annual Lavenham Rare Breeds car show from 1996-2000. It is held in association with the village’s annual carnival, and today regularly attracts 500 entries.

A more modest - perhaps 25-50 - will be aimed for at the golf club event Nick commented: “We are aware of a number of very interesting vehicles owned by our members, and want to give them the chance to show them off.

“Priority will be given to vehicles built prior to around 1970, and we hope to have some space for later built ones of rarity or special interest. Any unusual vehicle, even if it is an old army tank or commercial vehicle will be welcome. If someone has a classic Vincent Black Shadow motorcycle or suchlike in their garage, we’d love to see it. Some owners have already committed themselves to attend, and we are anxious to leave no one out.”

Nick says he has had a love of classically styled cars from a young age, particularly those from Italy.

“Although I am interested in what is beneath the bonnet, my main pleasure is derived from cars that have design idiosyncrasies, with a classic touch, and are fun to drive.”

In particular, he has three Lancia Gammas from the 1983/84 era. All are Series 111 coupe, with 2.5 litre, four cylinder engines - with “renowned road holding, performance and a body to die for” He is a member of Lancia Motor Club.

“Fiat rescued a virtually bankrupt Lancia in 1969, but kept the marque independent until fairly recently. Lancia continued to produce a stream of great models until the marque was merged with Chrysler a few years ago.”

In early days much of Lancia’s production was classic engines and chassis, with customers’ coachbuilders designing and building one-off bodies.

Thirteen years ago Nick followed the same dream when he acquired the

chassis and 20 boxes of dismembered parts of a classic 1935 Astura, and set about building the car of his desires. The chassis, with its three-litre, V8 engine, has been fitted with an ash frame and four seater drop head aluminium body.

It is a real head-turner in its dark red paintwork, and harks back to grand tourer days when the rich rallied their way across Europe to the south of France.

The show-stopper (pictured) will be among those on display at the golf club event, which also features traditional jazz and cream teas.

ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

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by

STEVE POTTS

NEW BUNKER PROJECT

In the summer of 69 Bryan Adams played his first real 6 string and apparently played until his fingers bled, well in the summer of 2015 the first real commitment to the new Rushmere Bunker Project was established. Over the next few paragraphs I will detail from inception to execution our plan and will explain how volunteers and Greenkeepers alike suffered aching backs as well as sore fingers!

At the July 15 committee meeting, I raised the issue of the poor state of our bunkers and that they BUNKER DUG BY PAUL required either revamping replacing or removal! After considerable Head Greenkeeper Pat, the face of certain other debate, I along with Pat Ryan, were tasked with bunkers were also greatly improved. coming up with proposals for improvement.

A small group was formed (not musically talented!) We had by this time already taken advice on which which covered various handicap levels and playing contractor to employ for the design and execution of our plans, now we had some! groups, namely Tom Howard, Shaun Jennings, We continued to discuss the merits of our top ten of Andy Morris, Pat and myself, Steve Potts. bunkers, to redesign or realign, over a period of Various gatherings followed with considerable several months, we also called in the assistance of a variations of ideas, counter ideas, differing ideas so called bunker lay out guru, to tap into his and at times a couple of blind bambi's (no ideas!). expertise and to draw up plans for our contractor to We eventually agreed upon our first course of follow. It was not entirely to our surprise that he was action, which was to reduce the number of double bunkers (4th, 5th, 7th and 9th), these activities were quite damning of our bunkers, both in condition and location, we awaited his drawings and undertaken by our very competent Greenkeepers recommendations with baited breath. However once MIchael and David, under the watchful eye of our received I can confirm that although he was incredibly eloquent he was no Picasso, I can confirm he received no coin!

BUNKER MATTING 16

As we wiled through the summer, the gang of 5 agreed upon all bunker changes for the first phase, numerous discussions then ensued with the management of various golf courses that had previously employed our recommended individual for their own bunker enhancement, we finished off this exercise with a visit to Gog Magog to view the work recently completed and to ensure our consciences were clear with regard to our decision to proceed with Paul, from Shapewright Services Ltd , All boxes

AT RUSHMERE GOLF CLUB

Pics: BOB TAWELL

were ticked and we were quietly confident of our decision making.

Paul arrived on the evening of Thursday 10th November to park up his digger, trailer and caravan for living on site, for work to commence Monday morning.

Paul shaped, reshaped, filled in, redesigned and reshaped again!

I'm sure that the morning headaches he experienced throughout the week were not only because of Bobs hospitality in the evenings!

With the weeks work done and our beautifully shaped holes in the ground, now in the correct locations, the manual work was about to commence.

First of all the state of the art liner, which we were to use following the recommendations of the Gogs, had to be measured, cut and placed into the bunkers with great care and precision. It was vitally important that the liner was pegged correctly onto the revetted shelf, that had been cut into the bunker by Pat, to enable the faces to be developed in the best possible way. Michael and David led the charge on the liner activities following detailed individual instruction from the liner providers themselves, a job very well done! Pat performed the revetted creation with gusto and aplomb and we should all take time to compliment all of them.

Now we come to the grande finale, the turf laying!

The back breaking, finger crunching activity, that produced aches and pains in places that the majority had forgotten existed!

BUNKER FINISHED

own green staff who showed real professional quality throughout the period of activity.

In conclusion, a fantastic effort from all involved with the bunkers and surrounds looking very good and come the spring can be enjoyed by all.

If you are a volunteer reading this thank you for your efforts, if you were not able to volunteer please find someone who was and say well done, great job and thanks for your time.

It was 4 weeks of torture for so many volunteers under the guidance of Trevor Swift, Tom Howard and Patrick Swinn, delivering, lifting, carrying, measuring, cutting, bashing, roll after roll after roll of turf, the commitment to produce the best result brought out a competitive streak, not seen in some members for many a year! Everyone involved should be really proud of their achievements.

Without the efforts of our volunteers the time frames would not have been met to ensure the best possible results, we would not have known that Trevor is the consummate professional with regard to turf laying and a leader of resources and to be admired for his dedication and discipline, Tom Howard is an expert in recruiting and amassing resources, as well as being so dedicated to all tasks undertaken, our very 17

A NEW DAWN FOR SUDBURY GOLF A NEW partnership has been formed to bring the joys of golf to all age groups in the Sudbury area.

The longest established Club and a neighbouring, family-run driving range, are pooling their resources in a bid to give the sport a new dawn.

At Old Joe’s - Newton manager Ben Tawell, Fred and Josie Stow, and Peter Philpott

Old Joe’s have struck up a partnership with Newton Green Golf Club, which will see the organisations move forward as part of the national campaign to bring the benefits of golf to a wider audience.

Newton’s PGA advanced coach Tim Cooper is running nationally-backed Get Into Golf courses at the range. His club shop assistant Jed Seeley, who plays off scratch, is leading marketing and business development at Old Joe’s on a part-time basis.

Peter Philpott, Newton chairman, said: “We have long held the opinion that with greater liaison the club and range could both move forward in a positive way, but this has not happened in recent years. We now have a very positive tie up which can only be good for golf and anyone interested in the sport in the Sudbury area.”

There was a close tie up when farmer Robert Fison developed the range, more than 20 years ago, and now the spirit of co-operation has been rekindled.

Josie Stow, the daughter of Mr Fison, has recently resettled in the area with her South African husband Fred, and the pair has been breathing new life into the driving range.

THETFORD ROUND UP Scratch player Iain Yule teamed up with five-handicap Rob Taylor to win Thetford Golf Club's Winter League trophy. The foursomes competition involves six rounds, with the four best scores counting, and Yule & Taylor compiled an excellent 144 points - and average of 36 per round. Second place went to Steve Burridge & Michael Smith with 137, followed by three pairings on 135 - Norrie Dickson & Brian Youngs, James Camelleri & Dean Scott and Paul Hensby & Nick Murgolo. Dickson and Youngs took third place on countback thanks to winning the final round of the competition. They came in with 35 points to pip Camilleri & Scott by one point. Matthew Harben & Robbie O'Brien were third with 33.

Ladies' Captain Gill Welham was delighted with the response to the annual Coffee Morning. Steve Rhind, from Suffolk Fire Brigade, was the speaker and thanks to the generosity of those attending a total of £661 was raised for the ladies' section. Cakes and biscuits were donated, purchased and enjoyed by all!

18

ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

SLCGA by Julie Latimer-Jones

Looking Ahead …

Julie Latimer-Jones checks on the SLCGA spring calendar.

As the new golfing season began to gather momentum, the calendar looked promising until it proved not possible for the first match (2nd April), County First Team versus the SGU to go ahead. It is hoped some adversaries will be found to take on the strong team of ladies planning to play at Royal Worlington. It featured a new squad member in Junior golfer, Fiona Stokes.

Fiona belongs to Haverhill Golf Club. She recently won the Eva Harris Shield for her golfing achievements, notably that she reduced her handicap from 12 at the start of 2016 to 6.8 by the end of it. We’ll look forward to seeing her when she makes her debut, either on 2nd April or with Alice Barlow, Vanessa Bell, Fiona Edmond, Vicky Inglis, Lils James, Sharon Luckman and Abbie Symonds against the Woodbridge men on April 23rd.

The County Juniors will have their first outing when the 2nd Team, handicaps 20 and upwards, takes to the fairways of Haverhill on April 16th against their counterparts from Bedfordshire. Their second match is against Norfolk seconds on 2nd May

The Ladies Championships, plus the Senior Ladies Championship, will take place on 12th – 14th May at Aldeburgh. Championship entry forms are available on the website at www.suffolkladiesgolf.org.uk (Go to Calendar/ Full Calendar/ Championships May 12th/ Entry/ Downloads. Entries close on 21st April 2017).

The Ladies First team will play a practice match against the Thorpeness Gentlemen on May 21st.

The team will be selected in due course.

Suffolk Ladies County Golf Association Officers 2017: President and Treasurer: Miss Hermione Scrope Tel 01359 232618 Captain: Ms Vanessa Bell Tel 01473 231411; Vice-Captain: Ms Sharon Luckman Tel 01394 212796 Hon Secretary: Mrs Di Cunningham Tel 01787 247590 ; England Golf Representative: Ms Rebecca Evans Tel 01787 464624; Handicap Adviser: Mrs Eunice Gray Tel 01473 833392; Junior Organiser: Miss Eloise Aldous Tel 07733145003 Seniors Organiser: Mrs Tessa Summers Tel 01986 872826 ; Scratch Score Assessor: Mrs Sue Cook Tel 01728 603242.

All other personnel may be found on the County website at www.suffolkladiesgolf.org.uk

Brett Vale

golf club

Set in the heart of Constable Country where a warm welcome is always guaranteed

SOCIETIES WELCOME Surrounded by stunning Constable Country, Brett Vale golf course offers a challenge to players of all ages and handicaps; along with first class facilities.

Membership available with no joining fee Fantastic function room available for that special occasion or business meeting. For all enquiries please telephone 01473 310718

'We go that extra mile, why don't you!'?

Noakes Road, Raydon, Near Ipswich, Suffolk, IP7 5LR www.brettvalegolf.co.uk EXCEPTIONAL DRAINAGE PLAYABLE ALL YEAR

ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

19

Welcome to the first edition of

'Tips from the Pro's' at Triangle Golf Schools, Ipswich Golf Club Our aim through this series of coaching tips is to share with you some of the most common faults we have seen in our eighty years of coaching golf. We hope you enjoy these tips and they improve your scoring.

The coaching team working with Triangle Golf Schools are Kevin Lovelock, Ian Scott and Mark Jillings, between then they have coached the sport at all levels from beginner to European Tour Player.

Flight Your Fairway Metals Better From Today Flight Your Fairway Metals Better From Today! So many players struggle with this shot particularly when using the straighter faced clubs, i.e. 3 Fairway or more accurately these days 13, 14, 15 and 16 degree clubs. In truth players with slower swing speeds would be better advised to use fairway metals with more loft, 18 degrees and above.

This doesn't mean you will hit the ball shorter!! It does mean you will enjoy more consistency which in itself will translate into better strikes, giving you more distance. This simple set up tip could help improve your fairway metal game. Certainly as a coach, it's an error we see regularly. Generally the player is completely unaware they are making this mistake.

Study the two pictures:Picture A is where the player has turned the metal wood off it's sole.

A

B

Picture B is what the club should look like at set up.

In order to check this find a flat hard surface (not grass). A tiled or wood floor is perfect.

Set yourself up normally, then loosen your grip. If the club rolls onto it's sole (usually to the right for a right handed player) you are making this error. To find the correct position simply sit the club on the hard surface before you place your grip on the club. Once you are happy with the grip, just loosen the hands again - there should be no movement of the club.

Correct Set Up Procedure: Following this set up procedure will help solve this problem. This is good practice for all golfers. • Firstly visualise your ball to target line • Next position the club head behind the ball directly on the ball to target line. Make sure you have the marking on top of the club head pointing directly along the imaginary target line, ensuring you don't turn the club off it's base to achieve this.

If you are not happy with the club's aim simply keep the base of the club on the ground and adjust the aim by moving the club’s grip left or right. • Once you are confident the club is correctly aimed, take your grip. • Then position your stance which should be parallel to the club head’s aim line. • Adjust your stance to get your correct ball position. • Finally set your posture position. You will need to be mentally strong not to turn the club head off it's base, this is because the club will look quite open (aiming right for a right handed player).

New Triangle Golf Schools at Ipswich Golf Club For the first time in Suffolk this is your chance to gain knowledge from our three fully qualified PGA Professionals who have over 80 years Experience coaching all levels of golfer.

Courses will be tailored to all aspects of the game Monday 3rd April 2017 10 am - 12 noon Chipping/ Putting Tuesday 25th April 2017 10am - 12 noon Bunkers/ Pitching Friday 28th April 10am - 12 noon Long Game Wednesday 3rd May 10am—12noon Long Game Friday 12 May 10am—12noon Chipping/ Putting Monday 22nd May 10am - 12noon Bunkers/ Pitching

Maximum group size eight with two coaches in attendance at all times Attendees will have the chance to play a round on the Purdis Heath Course after the coaching Coaching only £50. Coaching plus Game £80.

Visit our website: ipswichgolfclub.com for more information Book Now on 01473 724017 Or email kevinlovelock@btinternet.com

“ G e t i n t o G o l f ” at Stoke by Nayland Golf Open Weekend 8th/9th April

membership deals on offer over the weekend.

There will also be free golf clinics given at the Driving Range from 10am and 12 noon on both days, and complimentary 9 holes of golf (confident players only) on Sunday from 10am.

Stoke by Nayland’s Head Teaching Professional, Stoke by Nayland Golf Club has launched a new Roly Hitchcock has just achieved the accolade of initiative to encourage aspiring golfers of any age becoming one of only a dozen golf professional to get into the game of golf - and to ensure that coaches in the UK and Ireland who have been they’ll have fun whilst they learn! awarded the PGA level 4, UK Sports Coaching The aim is to encourage anyone to join in at any level of the golf ‘escalator’ that suits them, and then Certificate from Birmingham University. Roly has been trained by the top coaching academics in the progress upwards at their own pace, to get even country to more enjoyment both from the game itself, and critically evaluate from being part of a club.

Offering the finest coaching facilities, which include new techniques and apply this a 20 bay covered driving range, which is a knowledge to his Regional Performance Centre for England Golf, coaching extensive short game practice areas, and two programmes at championship golf courses - as well as four highly Stoke by qualified professional coaches, Stoke by Nayland Nayland. provides the best possible environment and For more details opportunities for Getting into Golf. call 01206 The annual Golf Membership Open Weekend will be held on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th April from 265812 Roly Hitchcock 10am - 3pm on both days. Golfers of all abilities coaches a are welcome to come along - whether you are a beginner at the beginner wishing to get started, or a seasoned Stoke by Nayland player who would like to take advantage of the ‘No Club Driving joining fee’ and ‘14 months for the price of 12’ Range

22

ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

Peter Ballingall

@

LETTER FROM SPAIN

How wonderful it is to feel that Springtime [la primavera] is here again after a long, coldish and wet, winter.

To listen to the birdsong in the early morning and at the end of the day is a joy and it seems to promote all those great feelings of optimism and hope for the weeks and months ahead. To me it is the most beautiful time of the year.

Recently I welcomed back a group who come every year for our Spring Meeting. Coming from Jersey, Germany [a couple who are Swedish but who work and live there], Scotland, Belgium and, yes, England too they all pleaded with me to ensure they would enjoy sunshine and warm weather as all of them had played so little golf in the previous months.

I put my request to The Great Provider ‘up there’ and ‘He’ didn’t let me down. Wet but warm on the first day but, thereafter, blue skies and warm sunshine prevailed thereafter. Short sleeves and sun-cream were necessary!

He understood this and, in practice with no ball, could achieve it. With a ball however the old short and restricted movement came out, with the same disappointing results.

He concluded that he was just incapable of doing it, becoming really irritated with himself [and me too, probably].

The others were watching this and it was at this point that I reverted to an old trick that I had often used in the past.

“I am not asking you to play a ‘good shot’ with this next ball” I said “but I am asking you to take the risk and to hinge the club as you turn, then let the arms fall freely as you turn. Will you do that for me?”

“Yes” he replied.

“WHAT” I answered “Was that a ‘Yes’?”

“Yes” he answered “I will do it”.

“Okay” I said “Remember that I am not asking for a ‘good shot’ – only that you feel the hinge of the wrists as you turn and the free-fall of the arms as you turn.

It was a most enjoyable week and their golf was You have told me that you will do this but if you don’t good too! then you will go over to that person that you can see on the putting green and APOLOGISE to him. You As always I reminded each one that I was not going will say to him that you are sorry for disturbing his to ‘teach’ them but that I would ‘remind’ them of practice but you wish to APOLOGISE because you things that they had already been taught in the past. promised to do something for that Pro over there Most of them continue to take ‘classes’ from their [me!] and didn’t do it – so I am here to say sorry”.

Pro at home so, of course, I had to ask them about what they were working on during such classes.

“You wouldn’t dare do that to me” he said looking shocked.

Some said something about ‘this’ and, others, something about ‘that’ which was fine – and most of “I would and you will” I replied. these things fitted in with my own ‘colour scheme’ – Believe me when I say that the ball on the next shot but few of those things in isolation did a lot for their flew high out of the bunker to land softly on the green better control of the ball, distance and accuracy. quite close to the flag.

Stuart, 15 h’cap, was becoming irritated at his This was met with a round of applause from the inability to play from a bunker. Even with his most others and a huge grin on his face – of relief, lofted club the ball flew low, if the ball came out at probably! all, and rolled way past the flag. It was because his wrists were so firm and his backswing way too short Sometimes it is good that he, in effect, was playing a Chip and Run shot to make threats!! rather than a shot with much more loft and ‘air-time’.

I explained that as the body turned in the backswing the wrists should hinge the club upwards so that the shaft pointed to the sky rather than, as he was doing, parallel to the ground. I then suggested that the arms merely fall freely downwards at the same time as the Body turned through to the target.

Contact me, Peter Ballingall at: Apartado de Correos 101 21450 Cartaya (Huelva) ESPAÑA Tel: (0034) 959 02 42 42 or E-mail: pballingall@golfelrompido.es Website: www.peterballingall.com

ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

23

Thorpeness golfers chip in to build new £10m children’s hospice in East Anglia Thorpeness Golf Club and Hotel, Suffolk, has raised £2,664.20 for a charitable appeal aiming to build a new £10m children’s hospice in the heart of East Anglia.

The funds were raised in aid of the Nook Appeal, led by EACH (East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices), which aims to build a state-of-the-art hospice to serve children with life threatening conditions from across Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire.

The Club, owned by TA Hotel Collection, held a series of fundraising events in 2016 and auctioned off a tour of the finest golf courses on the Suffolk Coast, including rounds at Aldeburgh, Woodbridge, Ipswich and Thorpeness golf clubs with accommodation and dining at Thorpeness’ golf hotel.

Brad McLean, general manager of Thorpeness Golf Club and Hotel, said: “Thorpeness Golf Club and Hotel is proud to be supporting EACH as our official charity for 2016 and 2017. It’s hugely rewarding to contribute to this life changing campaign and we’ll continue supporting the Nook appeal to help it achieve its dream of building a first class children’s hospice in the heart of East Anglia.”

More than 380 people attended the EACH Gala Dinner, which raised more than £300,000 and also featured an exclusive live performance by Suffolk singer songwriter Ed Sheeran.

Plans for the new hospice include sensory rooms, a hydrotherapy pool, gardens, family rooms and bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms for the children, all located in beautiful Norfolk Countryside.

Brad and his family have first-hand experience of the important services EACH offers, having received bereavement counselling and support at Quidenham hospice following the passing of their son Stanley aged 18 months in 2012.

Through the Stanley McLean Trust, Brad and his family have raised over £60,000 for sick children and causes including EACH. Brad recently joined the board of Trustees at EACH and will serve as one of 14 volunteer trustees dedicating their time and professional expertise to supporting the charity.

Brad McLean, said: “I am extremely proud and honoured to join EACH as a trustee, a charity full of exceptional people providing amazing care and support for children, young people and their families throughout East Anglia.”

Natasha Brume EACH, Ian Thornton and Brad MCLean

Thorpeness Golf Club will host a charity golf day in 2017 in aid of EACH and the Nook Appeal and will shortly announce details and information, so keep an eye on the pages of Suffolk & Norfolk Golfer, or visit their website www.thorpeness.co.uk

SUFFOLK GOLF TROLLEY WORKSHOP Located at Bramford Golf Centre Repairs - Servicing - Warranty - Batteries

Friendly and efficient service, temporary trolley available while yours is repaired.

Friendly and efficient service, temporary trolley available while yours is repaired.

For details ring: 07493 586554 Loraine Way, Bramford, Ipswich IP8 4JS suffolkgolftrolleyworkshop@gmail.com 25

Hotel begins new phase of bedroom refurbishment Over the past two years since Tarnia Robertson became Managing Director, Ufford Park Hotel has been under extensive refurbishment. The latest phase of bedroom refurbishment is now well under way with a further 27 bedrooms and bathrooms being fully modernised, which means that two thirds of the hotel’s 90 bedrooms will have been refurbished since 2014.

New carpets, beds, feature walls, lighting and curtains all contribute to a contemporary style with natural and earthy Deluxe double colour schemes. All the ‘new’ bedrooms in this current phase of refurbishment will be pewter, browns and lime green. The Premier other two colour schemes being implemented are burnt orange and teal.

Energy-efficient spotlights & additional plug sockets (with USB points) have been installed for better quality lighting with flexibility allowing for different modes. This fourth phase of refurbishment also includes new bathrooms with simple white tiling and chrome finishes creating a modern, light and airy look.

Tarnia said: “The hotel is undergoing something of a revival and it’s very exciting to see an Ufford Park for the twenty first century emerging. With our newly-refurbished Park Restaurant recently completed and other public areas under consideration, there is a more contemporary and luxurious feel to our interiors throughout.

We’ve also put a great deal of consideration into adapting our rooms so that they really provide our guests with everything they need to make their stay as relaxing as possible.

Local suppliers were used for all the electric, building and decorating work with a London-based firm supplying the interior design concepts and soft furnishings.”

Realistic Personal Practice Plan As we move into the start of the season we all like to use any time we have available heading out onto the course, playing the game we love, but we could be playing better golf with just a little bit of practice.

Often it is not just through the quantity of practice, but their game that could see a big improvement to the through properly guided practice, that we tend to see scores is likely to be putting, but how and how often is this practised with any real focus? improvements in the results.

In order to really take your game forwards, it would be very useful to go through your last few rounds and work out your current statistics. We would suggest noting the following - Fairways hit from tee, Greens hit from fairway, Number of bunker shots played, Number of up-and-downs made, Total number of putts, Number of short putts that you hole. Once armed with this knowledge you can begin to create a plan to improve the weakest parts of your game first.

If putting accounts for at least 40% of your game, shouldn't it demand 40% of your available practice time? Do YOU spend 20 minutes of every hour you practice working on your putting stroke? Either working on holing out from short range or developing feel for the longer range putts?

What specific targets should you set for yourself?

These should stretch your current ability, but without being so difficult that they cannot be reached.

All too often we see many players on the driving range hit 100 balls with a 5 or 6 iron but this may only account for 5 – 10% of their game. It may be a better idea to work on their fairway woods and driving as together these parts may account for 25 - 30% of their game. However, the biggest single aspect of

The best hour you could spend would be to sit down with a PGA Golf Pro and work together to develop a practice plan that makes more efficient use of any practice time that you have.

That £50 may be a better investment than that new £400 driver??!!

Stuart Robertson - PGA Golf Professional The Doctorgolf Academy Ufford Park Woodbridge Tel: 01394 383480 mail@doctorgolf.co.uk • @doctorgolf247 ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

27

NORFOLK COUNTY GOLF UNION www.norfolkcountygolfunion.co.uk NCGU CONTACTS President Doug Gilchrist, Weston Park Golf Club

Vice President Graham Turner, Mundesley Golf Club

Imm. Past President Alan Winstanley, Sheringham Golf Club

Hon. County Secretary Mike Devlin, Acacia House, The Street, Tibenham. Norfolk. NR16 1QA Great Yarmouth & Caister Golf club niblick@btinternet.com 01379 674516

Hon. County Treasurer Stuart Goodman, 18 Wallace Close, Dereham, Norfolk, NR19 2XR Tel: 01362 699701. goodmansv@waitrose.com County Captain Kevin Webb - Costessey Park Golf Club kevinwebb160575@gmail.com Seniors Captain - David Pattrick Seniors Administrator Malcolm Carr of Sheringham Golf Club malcolm.carr@tiscali.co.uk Junior Secretary - Norman Blanch, 10, Hillside Crescent, Wicklewood, Norwich. NR18 9QD Tel: 01953 604394 normanblanch@btinternet.com Team Managers (Juniors): U16 Manager - Iain Coventry 01603 528471 email: icov@fast-mail.net U12/14 - Nick Macartney - 07766 805314 nickmarcartneygolf@btinternet.com U18 Manager - Warren Blackwell 07961 823146 w.blackwell@hotmail.co.uk PGA Secretary - John Paling ‘Squirrels Reach’, Folgate Lane, Old Costessey, Norwich NR8 5EF Tel: 01603 741301 jandjpaling@uwclub.net Norfolk Schools - Margo Horsburgh 5 Bishops Croft, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP31 1BZ 01359 221281 dandmhorsburgh326@btinternet.com Girls Organiser - Carol Delf Gt Yarmouth & Caister Golf Club 28

by

Mike Devlin - Hon Secretary

Spring shoots. . .

The first County get together of the year features the "Bulls Bowl", presented to the County Union by JPA Clymer, specifically for winter golf in Norfolk.

This year sees the County 1st & 2nd Teams, alongside the County Seniors and County Under 18 Juniors, honing their skills over the links at Great Yarmouth & Caister Golf Club.

The traditional format for the day is the 1st Team versus the 2nd Team versus the Seniors versus the Junior Under 18 Team, where much is made of the opportunity for the 2nd Team, the Seniors and the Under 18 Team to show the County 1st just what they are made of. Bragging rights for the year are dependent upon the result. * * * * * The County Under 18 Juniors start their campaign with the traditional friendly against Eaton GC. Always a finely balanced outcome with the victors dining out on the result for the rest of the year. This is followed almost immediately by the BUT Trophy, a triangular match against Leicestershire & Rutland, Bedfordshire and Norfolk. This match is an annual fixture and is played at rotating venues around the three participating counties and is a mixture of foursomes and singles match-play. This year the venue is Market Harborough Golf Club in Leicestershire.. * * * * * Our County Senior’s are holding their first match of the season at Sheringham Golf Club for the aptly named Alan Winstanley Trophy. The Seniors take on the Norfolk Juniors (Boys and Girls) at Sheringham on April 2nd. Match points will be hard fought and afterwards some ribbing may well take place dependent upon the outcome of each of the matches. * * * * * All eyes are now focussed on the Eastern Inter-Counties Foursomes to be held at Seacroft Golf Club, Skegness. It's a compelling tournament where the best players from 9 Counties, including Leicestershire, Essex, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire, compete in foursomes match play over 72 holes spread over two days. Norfolk have steadily climbed the ladder at this event and finished third last year and are hoping for a further improvement this time. * * * * * The County Championships playing season gets underway with the County Foursomes Championships at Hunstanton. Day one will be a stableford event with the top four pairs going through to the 1st Flight Match Play semi-finals and eventual final on day two and the next four pairs going on to compete in the 2nd Flight

ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

event. Last year’s winners, Stephen Long & Iain Reid both of Eaton Golf Club, will no doubt be doing their best to repeat their victory. 2nd Flight winners, Chris Ingram and Spencer Clarke both of Bawburgh will no doubt wish to deprive them of that honour and do their best to go one better this year. *

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Handicap League This interclub league has really taken off and the clubs and their members have embraced it with gusto. Each club, plays each other club, both home and away during the season. It is designed for players of all abilities and handicaps.

*

Junior Matters Hardworking Norman Blanch, County Junior Secretary, continues his search for any talented young golfers who may wish to be considered for County Squad inclusion. Club Junior Organisers, Secretaries and Managers are requested to please consider the juniors at your club and consider putting them forward to be included. Please contact Norman on norman.blanch@btinternet.com for further details.

• Clubs participating are placed into four geographical divisions with their peers and play each other home and away.

• Clubs are represented by eight players - 4 pairs. Each match is 18 holes, betterball, match-play.

• Further details of the conditions of entry are available through your Club Secretary’s office.

* * * * * Toby Briggs of Dunston Hall has surpassed all expectation and reached a milestone early in his fledgling career. Toby has achieved a status only The bi-annual County Union Business Forum few can meeting is to be held at Royal Norwich Golf Club. dream of and The forum is attended by representatives of Norfolk even less Clubs. A varied agenda keeps the assembled achieve, that audience up to date with all the latest information of World about golf from a national and county perspective.

Junior Amateur The meeting sees the launch of the new Golf In Number 1.

Norfolk website (www.golfinnorfolk.co.uk) this is a Very well website to showcase the Norfolk Golf Clubs. An interactive map displays all the affiliated clubs within deserved and Norfolk and offers the visitor the opportunity to click hopefully a springboard on the link directly to their chosen club and make for better tee bookings, check out the catering, view course things ahead. Toby is already a regular conditions, contact details and membership offers. representative for England Golf competing around * * * * * the globe and for Norfolk playing in competitive inter-county matches, so keep an eye out for this young man.

The County Union, in concert with the County Association, have completed a number of ratings Jack Yule of over the past two years and are well on the way to Middleton Hall Golf completing all of the course ratings within the Club has enjoyed a County in the next couple of years. The calendar for sparkling 2016 and is 2017 has almost been finalised. The timing for really looking forward rating each club is determined chronologically to the 2017 season. based upon the last time the course(s) were rated. Despite a very hectic Each club will be contacted to agree dates for these diary populated with visits and a team of ‘course raters’ will attend and some very complete the appropriate tasks. Course rating prestigious should only be undertaken during the playing tournaments and season ‘April/May’ to ‘September/October’ so, due representing England to the complexity of the operation it is probable that Golf, Jack is still only five to six clubs will be rated each year. available for some of *

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Around & about

Course Rating

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our County Matches.

ONLINE: www.suffolkandnorfolkgolfer.com

29

The torch is passed The County Union Annual General Meeting is to be held at Royal Norwich Golf Club on April 5th when President Doug Gilchrist steps down. Doug has been a fantastic President over the last two years and has served unswervingly throughout his term Vice-President of office. Happily we shall not lose his services as Graham Turner he will continue on the Executive Committee as Immediate Past President and Seniors' Captain.

Vice-President Graham Turner, a member of Mundesley Golf Club and a long term supporter of golf within Norfolk, will be proposed as President of the Norfolk County Golf Union for 2017 to And finally………….

2019. The County is in safe hands.

May the weather be kind, your drives be straight and your putts be holed.

President Doug Gilchrist

Have a great year!

Mike Devlin

NORFOLK PROFESSIONAL GOLFERS' ASSOCIATION

by Secretary, John Paling ‘Squirrels Reach’, Folgate Lane, Old Costessey, Norwich NR8 5EF Tel: 01603 741301 Email: jandjpaling@uwclub.net

PGA Norfolk Pro Am Hunstanton A tough westerly wind made some holes easily reachable, but coming home was more difficult.

The condition of the course was superb after all the improvements of the last twelve months and Hunstanton’s greens were again a joy to putt on.

This event announces the start of our season with eleven more ProAms to follow, plus other competitions. Matthew Gardner (Barnham Broom) handed over the captain’s baton after the event and could have done it in real style for with two holes to go he was two under par but ruined his card on the 17th. Matthew finished with a 74 to join Ian Ellis (Great Yarmouth) & Will Farley (Rushmere). The winner with a level par 72 was the trainee from Swaffham, Nic Cains who just pipped Neil Mitchell (Bury Driving Range) who had a late surge to finish on 73.

In the team competition it was a double celebration for Nic Cains, for his team pipped the teams of 30

www.club-noticeboard.co.uk

COMMITTEE MEMBERS Chairman: Mike Jubb; Norfolk PGA Representative: Michael Few; Captain: Ryan Pudney; Vice Captain: Neil Lythgoe; Committee: Alan Hemsley, Lee Patterson

Mike Jubb (Sheringham) and Chase Davis (Sprowston Manor) by one shot, with Mitchell’s team a further shot back.

The AGM followed the event and this year’s captain will be Mark Spooner (Bawburgh & Norwich Family Golf) Nearest the Pin. Dean Ashton & Neil Milton.

Team 1st. 133 Nic Cains with Stacey Weeks, Phil Patience & Arlo Smith. 134c/b Mike Jubb with Neil Milton, Mark O’Brien & Martin Buckingham.

134 Chase Davis with Aaron Saddleton, Luke Clements & Correy Knoop. 135 Neil Mitchell with Hamish Fleming, Chris Page & Paul Izzard.

Our events up to May are as listed below and your Club professional can give you all the information that you need.

CLUB

Date

Wensum Valley

Tue 9th May

Confirmed

Bawburgh

Fri 12th May

Confirmed

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AREA HANDICAP AUTHORITY REPORT MARCH 2017 During the year I receive numerous handicap enquiries covering all aspects of the CONGU unified handicap system. One subject where questions are frequently asked is supplementary scores, so I thought it might be a good idea to take a look at this subject and hopefully answer some questions, although as with all handicapping issues one answered question generates further questions!! Anyway I will try to explain what supplementary scores are and how they can be submitted.

their handicap. That would not be in the spirit of the regulations.

So when can you submit a supplementary score?

You can play at any time at your home club, or any club, to which you are a member on a measured course which has a verified standard scratch subject to your club’s permission. No competition standard scratch is generated, so for instance if the par is 71 and the SS is 70, your handicap will be adjusted against the SS. Scores achieved at an away club where you are a member must be submitted to your home club for processing. You The CONGU system is based on the expectation cannot just go out on the course, you must notify that every player will return a number of scores your intention to play and to submit a throughout the year to provide reasonable evidence supplementary score. as to their playing ability. These scores are Most clubs will ask you to sign in before you play, generally achieved by players entering qualifying signifying your intention to complete a competitions and the results are submitted for supplementary score. Play must be to competition handicap purposes. It is recognised though that standard – all putts holed, the rules of golf there may be times when players are unable to complied with and the card must be duly completed enter sufficient competitions and therefore when by a marker or fellow competitor who holds a handicap committees carry out their annual review current CONGU handicap. On completion of your there may be insufficient evidence to ensure a round your card must be signed and submitted for player’s handicap reflects their current playing recording on your playing record. Non returned ability. cards will attract a .1 increase. As I alluded to earlier, clause 21, page 41 of the current manual Clause 21 on page 41 of the current CONGU will give you all the information. manual outlines when it would be acceptable to submit a supplementary score for handicap I hope I have enlightened you on supplementary purposes. The examples given are: scores!

1. Work or family commitments preventing participation in competitions.

Kevin Joy Area Handicap Authority

2. Difficulty in obtaining an acceptable starting time on competition days in clubs with a large playing membership.

NORFOLK GOLF UNION

3. A declining desire to play regular competitive golf.

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All handicap categories can submit up to 10 supplementary scores between reviews, with the exception of category one handicap players who can only submit such scores between September to the 31st December and only to ensure that they have completed three qualifying rounds to maintain their competition handicap.

So in essence a category one player can only submit up to three supplementary cards. Be careful because although the regulations say that 10 supplementary scores may be submitted, a handicap committee may not allow a player who has played say, 15 qualifying competitions, within the playing season to submit supplementary scores, if it is apparent that a player is attempting to build a handicap by submitting cards in order to increase

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LADIES CAPTAIN’S CHARITY Costessey Park ladies attended the Age UK Norfolk 70th Anniversary Ball, held at Norwich Football Club.

Wendy Howard presented a cheque for £6,225.18 to Hilary MacDonald, Chief Executive of Age UK Norfolk.

The money raised during 2016

by Lady Captain Sue Fage, with all the fantastic support of the ladies at Costessey, will pay for the reprinting of the Pabulum Blue Book, which is a crucial part of the care given to people living with dementia.

All the ladies who attended the ball had a fantastic night and really enjoyed the dancing by Strictly Stars Ola and James Jordan.

LEFT: Ryston Park lady golfers win the Norfolk Ladies Golf Scratch League gaining promotion from Div 3 to Div 2 for 2017. l-r: TIff Mills, Sue Ward, Trish McManus (Captain), Ann Fletcher & Tracy Russell

Costessey Park Golf Club has received over £500,000 investment in its course alone over the last few years. The course area has been extended by some 25 acres and a new redesigned par 71, Eaton Donation to Macmillan 18-hole course opened Eaton’s 2016 Club Captain Gavin Sargent and Ladies' Captain Eppie Zandvoort handed over a magnificent cheque for £11021.45 to halfway through last summer.

Macmillan Cancer Support, the result of their fundraising efforts Much of the existing course during their year of office. has been wholly reconfigured The single biggest earner was the Charity Day which raised £7,000, and this will now be the first with 150 players taking part. Sargent said “A big thank you to all in summer season on the mature raising so much for a great local cause. What a wonderful way to course. In addition, they are round off my 2016 Captaincy year, a great outcome for all the hard work everyone's put in all year.” now in the process of Below Right: Sema Hussein (in green) from Macmillan Cancer Support, beginning a multi-million receiving the cheque at the presentation pound investment in on-site improvements and development, to follow over the next few years.

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Dereham Golf Club Junior Section by Jane Bizley Dereham Golf Club’s junior members started the 2017 season in fine weather by playing for the Valentine Trophies.

The better conditions meant the 18 holes Stableford competition saw some excellent scores with junior captain Matthew Goodman taking top prize with 40 points, followed by Immy Leeder with 38 points. Each received prize money and gifts which were kindly donated and presented by Ladies President Mrs Jill Trudgill.

In the 9 holes competition Charlie Eke started the season well with his first-ever win with 19 points, second place went to Charley Brett on 17 points.

The 5 holes competition was won by Kaitlyn Auld, also with a first win since joining last year.

Junior organiser Jane Bizley thanked Jill Trudgill for providing the players with chocolates and prizes and said it had been a good start to the new season. She also welcomed Vinnie Rix and Hayden Lambert who played their first competition having recently joined the Club.

Immy Leeder, Ladies President Jill Trudgill and Matthew Goodman

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Swaffham Golf Club Ladies Section March Medal Results: Div 1. Abigail O’Riordan 78-5 = 73.

Jan Somerville 91-16 = 75. Marian Steward 91-15 = 76.

Div 2. Ann Curtis 108-29 = 79. Mabel Curtis 109-29 = 80. Barbara Stevenson 110-28 = 82.

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Norfolk ‘reserves’ defy NORFOLK SENIORS BY BERNIE PEET odds to secure prestigious It's been great to hear about some of the proposed new rule changes which will hopefully come into effect in National Title A pair of amateur golfers from Norfolk claimed the pairs title at the prestigious 2016 Morocco Matchplay, powered by HowDidiDo, in Marrakech after joining the grand final only as late replacements.

January 2019. Some of them make so much sense and will help speed up play, some of the main changes which I like are; • No penalty for accidentally moving a ball on the putting green or in searching for a ball • No penalty if a ball played from the putting green hits an unattended flagstick in the hole so players may putt without having the flagstick attended or removed • Players may repair spike marks on greens and no penalty for touching the line of putt • Time reduced for searching for a ball from 5 to 3 minutes

Betting-shop manager James Crosby, 39, (right) from Tunstead, and locum shop manager Matt Craske, 30, (left) from North Walsham, are both members at Mundesley GC and, in October's regional qualifying final in Northumberland, just failed to book a place on the trip to Marrakech. Instead, they were listed as first reserves - but when one pair dropped out Crosby and Craske were quick to grasp the opportunity presented to them, losing only one match on their way to victory in the four-day event, ultimately beating Scottish pair Scott and Archie Logan, from Linlithgow GC, 4&2 in the final.

Indeed, they continued to defy the odds throughout the tournament, as fourhandicapper Craske explained.

"We were four down with six to play and we came in one up to get into a play-off for the final," he said. "And then we got through to the final on the third play-off hole ... with a birdie from James."

• It will be recommended that all players should take no more than 40 seconds to play their shots • The system of ready golf will be encouraged • Simplified ways of taking drops and playing from specific relief areas. Ball will be able to be dropped from just above the ground and not at shoulder height • Loose impediments will be allowed to be removed from bunkers The current rules will be reduced from 34 to 24, they will be written in a more user friendly style with shorter sentences and more commonly used phrases. Players can review the proposed new rules at usga.org/rules until August 31st and you can take part in an online survey on this site.

It's about time that the rules were overhauled so hopefully this will make the game even more enjoyable and encourage more people to play.

Norfolk Seniors are preparing for another busy season with 13 matches to be played which includes a good mix of national, league and friendly matches. There will be a get together at Sheringham on March 23rd and any new players with a handicap of 7 or less will be most welcome. Please see the Norfolk County website for contact details.

His partner, who plays off 13, now has a 100% record of winning events ‘overseas'.

The new captain for the coming season will be Doug He smiled: "It's the first time ever I've been Gilchrist, he has a hard act to follow after the fine effort abroad. The sunshine's great, Morocco is of last years captain David Pattrick. magical. As first reserve, going to Morocco was like winning anyway. When we got there it helped and the momentum carried us along. We felt like it was ours to win, coming THEATRE ROYAL BURY ST EDMUNDS GOLF DAY The popular event will be held Thursday 6th April in as we did."

2017 at Haverhill Golf Club.

Craske added: "We started off really well with a few birdies and got three up. They pegged for a team of FOUR. Includes: Coffee & us back but we got another on the way. We'll Bacon Roll, Lunch, Prize table, Raffle certainly be looking to defend the title next To put in a team, turn back to page 18 for info year - we've got to try anyway.”

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Barnham Broom Presentation Evening The Barnham Broom men's section presentation evening had a good turn out. The new Club Captain Roger Garwood present the trophies, including the winners of the Clubs three prestigious competitions.

Firstly, the Clubs 36 hole Championship, played on the Valley and Hill courses. The overall winner was Gary Lutkin with a nett 131, and the scratch winner was Adam Sims scoring 146.

Secondly, Former Captain Mark Leeds was presented with the WIlliam H Brown Trophy, the competition format is a combination of medal and match play; the top 8 in the medal competed in match play for the Trophy.

‘Road to Barnham’ winner Paul Dunning

and RTB organiser Nigel Render Next, the Order of Merit Competition, The Road to Barnham, was won

by Paul Dunning. Remarkably, Paul only took up the game in 2015 and has reduced his handicap to 13.

This competition is competed for by all members playing in the Clubs 42 qualifying competitions between March and October. On the night the top 30 competitors shared prizes worth more than £4000.”

Below: William H Brown trophy presented by captain Roger Garwood to Mark Leeds

Barnham Broom's men's section saw FOUR Hole-inones in a remarkable 28 days. First was Paul Platten on the Hill course holed out on the second hole. Next was the turn of Robbie Watts who Aced the 15th on the Valley. Shaun Friend obtained his Ace on the Hill course, followed by new men's Captain Roger Garwood who Aced the Hill 17th, in a Matchplay Pairs competition. Only one of the aces was achieved on a winter green! l-r: Robbie Watts, Roger Garwood (captain), Shaun Friend

Chloe Rowswell was presented with a wonderful array of trophies at the Ladies’ AGM of Eaton Golf Club. The Trophies were presented by the out going Ladies’ President Mireen Jones.

Chloe won: The Judith Lee trophy for being the Eaton Ladies Champion 2017 in the Closed Meeting; The Mrs Russell Price Trophy by winning the 36 hole scratch - Silver Division in the Autumn Closed Meeting; The Mrs P Myhill Trophy for winning the Winter American Tournament; The Janet Lister Owl Trophy for the junior returning the most cards in 2016; She was part of the winning Norfolk Ladies Scratch League Division 1. This is the fourth year in a row Eaton has won the division.

Chloe is also the Norfolk County Girls champion 2016 and has also played in the Norfolk Ladies County team, who successfully made it through to the National finals the first time in 42 years, held in Waterlooville Hampshire.

“A WORD”

from your Norfolk Golf County Development Officer

E-mail- k.woodrow@englandgolf.org • Mob- 07736 880922 Twitter- @NorfolkCGP • Website- www.norfolkgolfpartnership.org

What can we look forward to from the forthcoming and Golf Foundation) we will be Norfolk Golfing Calendar?

Usually in articles like these we are reporting or reflecting on an event or situation that have already happened so I thought in this article I’d turn things around and write about what we can look forward to with regards to golf in Norfolk this coming summer.

If you want to see our best county golfers in action then then head out to the coast this summer, as the majority of the adult county events are taking place at one of our fabulous seaside courses. After their best performance since 1971, our ladies first team will be looking to emulate their 2016 East Region County Match Week win when they defend their title this year on home turf at Hunstanton from 19th to 23rd June. Having played a similar competition in tennis for many years I know how beneficial it can be to feel supported so please make an effort to go along and cheers the ‘coral army’ on!

promoting to targeted groups the benefits and opportunities on how to get involved in golf.

June is our Women & Girls month and July is for families. We’ll be asking clubs to run taster sessions, open days and coaching sessions aimed at these groups and will be supporting them with their planning and delivery using our new club support resources and increased promotional opportunities. If your club would like to get involved or you know someone who would like to start playing please do let me know.

Please find a list of the events and associated dates and venues I’ve mentioned above plus a few more. I know on top of this there are numerous competitions for all standards of golfers across the county run by clubs, the Men’s Union and Ladies Association, so something for everyone! It’s also nice to see more open ‘fun’ competitions like Texas Scrambles and Night Golf being advertised and of cause, for those of us who often struggle to find time during the busy working week, more 9 hole opportunities.

For our PGA Professionals, there is the Senior Master Tour Pro Am on 11th June and 36 hole Championship on the 12th & 13th June which is being held at Bawburgh Golf Club. Also at Bawburgh and for our competitive club golfers, • 3rd April - Norfolk School Championships - Eaton GC• 6th there’s the opportunity to get yourself on Sky Sports April - European Junior Golf Tour - Bawburgh GC by attending the Trilby Tour Championship of Norfolk • 8th & 9th April - Girls Golf Rocks (Barnham Broom, Bawburgh/NFGC, Middleton Hall, Searles, Sprowston which is being held on Thursday 1st June with PreManor) Qualifying Events on Saturday 29th April & Saturday • 12th - 14th May - NLCGA Women’s County Championships 20th May. www.trilbytour.com

- Royal Cromer Golf Club • June - England Golf Women and Girls & This Girl Can in Norfolk focus month • 1st June - Trilby Tour Ch’ship of Norfolk - Bawburgh GC • 10th & 11th June - NCGU Men’s Amateur Championships Royal West Norfolk GC • 11th June - Senior Masters Tour - Bawburgh GC • 19th to 23rd June - East Region County Match Week Hunstanton GC • 29th June - NLCGA Senior Women’s Championships For those of you who might know some girls Great Yarmouth & Caister GC interested in playing golf, our Girls Golf Rocks programme will be kicking off again with FREE taster • July - England Golf Family focus month • 8th July - England Golf Men’s County Qualifying sessions at clubs across the county (see below) on Sheringham GC 8th and 9th April. These will be followed up with a 5 • 9th July - NLCGA Girl’s County Ch’ships - Bawburgh GC week coaching programme and Fun Festival in the • 12th July - East of England Men’s Senior Open May/June half term. For further details contact Hunstanton GC • 26th July - NCGU Boy’s Ch’ships - Costessey Park GC myself or the participating clubs directly.

• 10th August - NCGU Senior Men’s Ch’ships - Royal Finally, to help us attract more people to start playing Cromer GC or to get back into golf you will see that in June and • 31st August - Norfolk Open - Thetford GC

On the junior front, things kick off with the Norfolk Schools Championship at Eaton Golf Club on 3rd April. Our young golfers really did us proud last year with three of them going on to win the national team title so we wish them well again this year. This is shortly followed by the European Junior Golf Tour at Bawburgh on 6th April www.europeanjgt.com

July we have a couple of focus months, where Here’s hoping the sun starts shining soon and April through digital advertising and support from our showers don’t hamper a good start to the golfing England Golf Partners (who include Sky Sports, BBC season.

Happy golfing!

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