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GOLFAllyourlatestgolf news from across theNorth West,NERSorth Midlands&North www.golferslocal.co.uk FEBRUARY, 2013

Players LeePark Bronte Lythampro Historic defythe stalwartgets backsnew hasaRoyal appointment snow – hisreward– scheme – sendoff – inWirral – Page4 Page9 Page13 Page15 Page30 OLYMPIC GLORYFOR TEEN WREXHAM teenager ChloeWilliams BY PAUL CHAPPLE has wonone of the firstgolf Olympic WelshGirlschampionmakeshistoryinAustralian gold medals formorethan 100 years at Chloe,the daughter of Wrexham club the Australian Youth Olympics Festival proPaul, plays full-time as an amateur in Sydney. andhopes to turnprofessional in 2015. YouthOlympicsFestivalwithdoublemedalhaul The 17-year-old Welsh Girls cham- Sheadmitted that the whole Olympic ex- pionadded to the Team GB gold with perience,whichincluded flying Down an individual bronze medal in the 72- Under aweek beforethe event to accli- hole event. matizeand practice,has whet her appetite Her closinground of 68 was jointly forwhen makes its returntothe the best of the dayand it catapulted her Olympics in Rio in 2016 after last being wayupthe leaderboardinto the medal playedaspartofthe Games in 1904. positions after she hadopened with “After this experience Iwould do ab- rounds of 74, 69 and 75. solutelyanything to be partofTeam GB “I hadnoidea Iwas in contentionfor again. To be picked forRio would be a amedal,”admittedChloe.“Imanaged dream come true.” to birdie the final hole and as it turned Ben Waterhouse,the Golf Unionof out, that was absolutelycrucial. We Wales director of performance,added: knewthe team were in agood position, “This is agreat result forChloe against but Icouldn’t believe it when Irealised manyofthe world’stop amateur golfers, I’dwon an individual medal.” another significant step forwardinher The victoryhas cast the youngster progress at the ageof17.” into the media spotlight back in North Team GB won gold in the aggregate Wales, including an appearance of team event –finishing 12 shots clear Welsh TV late last month. shots of Australia, while NewZealand “Thereaction’s been amazing since I tookbronze.Team GB were captained by gotback,”she said. “Myfamilythrew a Wales’sTegwen Matthews,the victorious surprise party forme, whichwas great.” captain. WIN TICKETS TO THE INAUGURAL ChloeWilliams back at MANCHESTER GOLF SHOW–SEE PAGE 6 Wrexham with hermedals last month.

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TEL:01244 681605 Send your stories to: [email protected] 3 GolfersLocal February 2013 Local News GOLFERS

WELCOME to our Februaryedition of GolfersLocal. SWITCH TO CACK-HANDED We’vehad great fun bringing you allthe latest golfing news from across the region over the last four years, as well as providing the perfect platform forour advertisers to gettheir mes- sageacross to our golfing readers each PAYS DIVIDENDS FORJOHN andevery month. Thereare lots of fabulous features BY GEOFF GARNETT planned forthe year but we would love to include your club’s news too. If youhaveastoryfor us, whether AREDDISH Vale member has defied deadlyserious or hilariously funny, as allthe golf coaching manualsbyreducing long as it is legal, decent, honest and his to single figures despite interesting,we’ll do our best to use it. playing cack-handed. Former amateur footballer John Send it to us at: GolfersLocal,Cherry Schofield tookupgolf 10 years agowhen Bank Barn, DarkLane,Burton, Nr he finally hung up his boots following a Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0AE. Or e-mail: [email protected]. successful career with BurnageMetroFC in the highlycompetitiveLancashireand EDITORIAL: Paul Chapple: CheshireAFL. 01978 449917 or 07956 033265 His natural sporting talent saw him re- E-mail: [email protected] duce his handicap to 14 despite the right- hander using the unorthodoxgripofleft ADVERTISING: hand belowright forall shots with his Callour friendly sales team on: irons. He continued to use amoreortho- 01978 449917. doxgripwhen hitting his woods, but in E-mail: [email protected] 2011 he tookthe plungetoplay“the WEBSITE: wrongway round”for allshotsand re- www.golferslocal.co.uk markablyhis game has gonefrom strength to strength. PRINTERS: In 2011hewon the singles knockout Mortons of Horncastle Ltd, Media at the Cheshire-based club and also the Centre,Morton Way, Horncastle, fourballknockout with Mike Radcliffe. Reddish Vale’sJohnSchofield with his cack-handed approach to gripping the club. LincolnshireLN9 6JR. Inspired by his successes, he continued the good work in 2012 and retained the from BillGraty,Darren Hardy and Craig John said: “I really can’texplain why “I willcertainlybelooking to retain the Youcan nowfollowuson fourballtrophyaswellaspartnering Tony Hillwith six other players in hot pursuit the cack-handed grip worksfor me,but I trophies and addmoretomycollection twitter at Barnes to victory in the . But on 67. am very comfortable with it, despite the this year.” www.twitter.com/golferslocal the big result came in the ‘major’compe- This dropped John’s handicap to eight odd looks Isome- titionfor the coveted Norman Pike Tro- and moregood playinearly autumn saw times getfromour phy. In aterrific finish, John posted a him finish last seasonwith ahandicap of club professional An- superbcardof74-9=65 to win by ashot just six. drew Myers.

Advertise your club’s details in our Club Directory on page 38 forless than £5 per edition!

Call 01978 449917 before Friday 1st March to be included in next month’s edition GolfersLocal February 2013 4 Send your stories to: [email protected] Local News HARDYGOLFERS DEFY THE ELEMENTS AT ECCLESTON LAST month’s snowy conditions didn’t BY PAUL CHAPPLE was abrilliant atmosphereabout the stop the members of EcclestonParkGolf clubhouse as people shared their stories Club,inRainhill, from gettingthe golf to enable playtocommence. of good and badshots, birdies and lost clubs out and having some fun out on the Headprofessional, Bryan Joelson- balls. The staff should be given great course. Mulhallsaid: “Asaclub,wewanted to do credit fortheir hardwork. IknowIam Fiftygolfers tookpartinthe club’s first something fun forour members as many not the only onewho is alreadylooking ever snowgolf competition–whichsoon of them were becoming frustrated at not forwardtothe next one.” became affectionatelyknown as ‘The being able to play. It was afantastic team Although it was certainlymoreabout Snowpen’. effortfromthe team to put the event on, the taking partthan the winning,there Acourse made up of eight shortpar and it was great to see so manypeople en- was atie forfirst place.Lee Webber and three holes of 100 yards or less was de- joying themselvesout on the course.” MarkReynolds controlled their yellow vised, and temporarytees and greens were After taking part, Collette Kane,Ec- balls the best, both posting excellent cleared of the snowbythe greenkeepers clestonPark’sladycaptain, said: “There scores of 27. Playersinaction at Eccleston Park during the cold snaplast month. DIDSBURYMEMBERS BEATTHE BIG FREEZE

WHILEother courses were frozen out greens staff and the recovery powers of Didsburyassistant proDaveMack- tribute to the work being put in. after abitter dose of winter weather last theSouth Manchester-basedcourse,15 innon said: “While the bulk of courses “Wehaveapolicyof‘the course month, golfers were stillable to enjoya holes were playable forrollupgolf and in the region were shut, our members closes itself ’but this was nevergoing game at Didsbury. the full18holes were open foraction the were able to getout and enjoytheir golf to be the case despite the severe Didsburymembersinaction. Thanks to excellent work by the following day. in very good conditions, whichwerea weather we havesuffered.”

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Uptonshortlisted

ACHESTER golf club willfind out this month whether it has wonatop CARDENWIN national awardinrecognition of its efforts to encourageanew genera- tion of golfers. Upton-by-Chesterisone of three clubs in the running forGolfMark PRESTIGIOUS club of the year. GolfMarkisanational scheme that incorporates ClubMarkand recognises junior and beginner friendly golf facilities that focus on coaching and playing,club environ- AWARD AGAIN ment, child protection and dutyof care. ACHESHIRE hotel has been named youtoeverybody who voted forusand we Atotalof20clubs were nominated the Best Golf Resort/Hotel in the North willcontinue to strivetobethe best forthe award–now in its fifth year – of forthe second year running, throughout 2013. with Warwickshire’sLeamington & voted forbygolfers. “Our aimistomaintain our high stan- Countyand Garon Park in Essex Carden Park,near Chester,has once dardssowecan celebrate again next year. joining Upton on the shortlist. again won the prestigious title in the Golfers havethe chance to experience the The winners willbeannounced at Today’s Golfer Travel Awards. awardwinningfacilities from just £25 per the CountyGolf Development Con- Keen players from across thecountry personwith agame of Winter Warmer ference. voted online in their thousands to ensure golf including arrival tea, coffee and “Weare absolutelydelighted to be their favourite golfing locations in the baconrollplus an 18-hole game of golf.” on the shortlist,”said Upton’s junior UK and abroadcame out on top. Situated within abreathtaking country organiser JennyTurner.“Being vis- Last year’s inaugural awards, in associ- estate,golfers at Carden Park havea ited by the judges was abit like an ationwith major golf travel operator Your wealth of facilities to enjoyincluding the Ofsted report, but it gave us the GolfTravel, saw CardenParkawarded for twostunning championship courses and a chance to showthe kind of coaching the first time in the same category. driving rangewith 13 coveredand eight we offer and the environment we KarenProctor,golfbusiness manager uncoveredbays. havecreated fornewcomers to golf. at Carden, said: “Weare delighted to have Headprofessional StevePriest and his “Fingers-crossed forthe awards won this prestigious awardfor the second Total Golf Performanceteam arebased The 18th hole on the CheshireCourse at the award-winning De Vere Carden Park. night, but whateverthe outcome year in arow.Therewas tough competi- on site and canoffertraining to both be- Upton-by-Chester has already tionfromother hotels and resorts in the ginners and experienced golfers. this classy hotel doesn’t disappoint. ing 18-hole courses: the Nicklaus–laid proved what canbeachievedbya NorthofEngland so we areverypleased Chris Jones, editor of Today’s Golfer, “Itsits amid 1,000 acresofrolling outbythe GoldenBear’s design team – united approach to trying to make that Carden Park has once again come said: “Themile-long driveinto this highly Cheshirecountryside and has allyou andCheshire, excellent practice facilities, golf club membership as friendly and out on top. popular De Vere hotel immediatelysug- need foragood time on and off the 196 rooms/suites, aspa and the new accessible as possible.” “Wewould like to sayahugethank gests youare somewherespecial –and course.Star attractions aretwo contrast- Vines restaurant.” GolfersLocal February 2013 6 Send your stories to: [email protected] Manchester Golf Show

Thesearchisonforthe region’slongestdrive GOLF SHOWGEARING UP FOR champion

NORTH WEST DEBUT AS AN official partner of the Man- chester Golf Show, GolfersLocal has teamed up with the show’sorganisers by launching anew initiativetofind the region’s Longest Drivecham- pion. Allclubs areinvited to take part and canrun a GolfersLocal Golf Club Challengeonaday/s thatsuits them. Clubs maychoose to set aside aspe- cific dayfor members to take partin one go or theymay simplyallow golfers to trytheir luckwith the long driveasand whensomeone wishes to haveago.

Competition details: • Open to ALLclubs in the Golfers Local distribution area • Each participating club willorgan- ise aLongest Drivecompetition in March • Each club’s winner willcompete at Left, visitors to last year's showatEarl's Court the Manchester Golf Show Final enjoyaspotofcrazy golfwhile others wander £10 entry foreachgolfer around the many stands. Above, Kevin • Carpenter,ofTheGolfTrick Shot Boys, •Each entrant willreceiveaFREE entertains the crowds in London. ticket to the show(normally £15) • PLUS, FREE annual membership WITH less than twomonths to go until fessionals readytodiscuss their passion. to TheSocialGolfer.com (worth £20) the inaugural Manchester Golf Show,or- The showwillalso include: • GrandPrize -Two Monarch flights ganisersare excited to announce tickets • Geoff Swain (World Champion) and to aEuropean destination arenow on sale forthe keenlyawaited Kevin Carpenter performing as ‘TheGolf • PLUS, the competition and final- event. TrickShot Boys’ ists willbefeatured in GolfersLocal’s After eight years and 14 successful • European Tour accredited putting coach April issue! shows in both Londonand Birmingham, Andy Gorman The Golf Show Group is launching the • Meet William Hunt and The Trilby The Golf Show Group’s marketing newshowatEventCity(The Trafford Tour Champions director,Ian Mullins, said: “Weare Centre) on April5-7. It’s the first time • Informed technical advice and free very excited about coming to Man- the showhas been held in the North PGA tuitionand education chester and what afantastic opportu- West. • 16 driving bays,customfitting and club nityfor the clubs to gettheir The newshowisdesigned to provide a testing members involved and be repre- sented at the first ever Manchester completelyinteractiveexperience for • Some of the latest golf gadgets Host venue,EventCity, at The Trafford Centre. golfers of allagesand abilities. It willbe • Adesignated Kids Zone! Golf Show. supported by retail partner Express Golf • The Golf Show Lotterywith prizes to shortgame,the swing,biomechanics, the To encouragemorejuniors to attend “It’salso achance to give their and some of the world’stop golf brands winthroughout the weekend mental game to strength and condition- and participate in the sport, onechild members aunique ticket offer,plus including TaylorMade,Callaway, • Competitions to win Monarch flights ing coaching with experts in their fields. aged under 14 willbeadmittedfor free thereisthe opportunityfor the club Mizuno,Cleveland, Nike,Wilson, Cobra including nearest-the-pin, longest drive Entryispriced at £11 foradults, £18 when accompanied by apaying adult. pros to generate additional exposure and Yonex. and longest putt fortwo,and £48 forsix in advance,or£15 Formoreinformation, visit the website and revenue forthe clubs that take Visitors to the event willbeable to test, In addition, presenter Tony Westwood on the door. www.golfshowmanchester.com. partinthe Club Challenge.” tryand learnabout allthe latest club in- returns to comperethe main stagefor his If youoryour club would like to novations. In addition, attendees willbe fourth show, and willbeconducting in- Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.ticketline.co.uk/manchester-golf-show#bio take partinthis uniqueevent, con- able to seek expertadvice on the individ- terviews, discussionsand masterclasses on or www.golfshowmanchester.com tact Ian on 01732 836100 or e-mail ual brands from morethan 50 PGA pro- allaspects of the game from putting,the [email protected]. WIN ONE OF FIVE PAIRS OF TICKETS TO APRIL’S MANCHESTER GOLF SHOW

WE’VE teamed up withthe organisers of the first ever Manchester Golf Show to bring youaunique chance to win ENTRYFORM oneoffive pairs of tickets forthe big QUESTION:Who is the world’sNo. 1trick shot champion? ANSWER:...... event, whichtakes place at EventCity on April 5-7. Your name:...... Address:...... Simplyreadthe articleabove and answer the question in the entryform...... To enter by post, complete the form or ...... to enter via e-mail, send us your an- swer,name,address, contact number TelNo:...... Wheredid youpickupyour copyofGolfersLocal:...... and whereyou picked up your copyof the paper to: [email protected]. Please use ‘Golf Show Competition’in E-mail...... the subject area. Send your completed form to: Golf Show Competition, GolfersLocal,Cherry Bank Barn, DarkLane,Burton, Nr Rossett, Can’t wait until next month to see if Wrexham LL12 0AE. Allthe topbrands will be exhibiting and you Closing date: Friday, March 1, 2013. could be one of fivelucky GolfersLocal you’vewon? Bookyour tickets nowat readerstowin apair of tickets to April’sfirst Tick the boxifyou would like to receiveinformation on futurepromotions from The Golf Show Group. www.golfshowmanchester.com. ever Manchester Golf Show. Foradvertisinge-mail: [email protected] 7 GolfersLocal February 2013

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Denbighjuniorisa chipofftheoldblock

SEVENTH HEAVENFOR junior member Thomas Roberts followed in his fa- ther’s footsteps last month when he aced on the 140-yardeighth hole at his home club. HAZELGROVE’S VIV The 13-year-old used his eight AHAZEL Groveladymember has BY GEOFF GARNETT mallParkgolf clubs, who is the English to notchhis first ever hole-in- notched her seventh hole-in-one! ladies hole-in-one recordholder with 10 one and to move him closer to his VivCarroll’slatest ace, during aladies The eight-handicapper hit her driver to date. dad, Michel’s,remarkable recordof Texas Scramble event, was her first in an on the 132-yardfifthhole against a Viv, who has been playing golf for47 six aces as aDenbigh member. official competitionafter the previous six strongwind to set up the nowcustomary years, has been oneofthe top lady golfers Thomas, from Upper St Asaph, –atPortal, Marple,Leigh, Cavendishand celebrations at the 19th hole. at Hazel Grovefor manyyears and her has been playing golf since he was twoatHazel Grove–all came in non- Vivisnow closing in on the remark- name is on most of the ladies ‘major’com- 10 and already plays off 11 –al- competitiverounds. able Jean Nield, from Chorltonand Bra- petitionboards at her belovedclub. VivCarroll’s hole-in-one tally is nowseven. though his Winter League handi- caphas been cut to six after a fabulous nett 65 in arecent Junior NOEL CELEBRATES HIS 92ND BIRTHDAY AT SANDIWAY Winter League event. Doubledelight ASANDIWAY golfer marked his 92nd and president in 1983. His name birthdaylast month with another 18 adorns manyofthe Honours Boards TWOHenlle Park members aced holes of golf –something he stilldoes forthe competitions he has wonover the same hole on the same dayin three times each week. the years, including twogold medals. last month’s Flag Competition at Noel Pughe,has been amember of Noel was recognised by the club 17 the Shropshire-based club. the prestigious Cheshireclub for59 years agowhen he received honorary In really unpleasant conditions years –joining in 1954 by paying the lifemembership. with high winds and persistent rain, princelysum of £5 subs. Sandiwaymember Alan Burgess BarrieEvans and TerryPrice holed Welshman Noel is aretired engineer said: “During WW2 Noel saw action their shots on the three who built the flagpolethatstill stands in Italy, Crete and El Alamein. It is fourth hole. proudly on the first at Sandiway thought the latter, having copious Therewas double joyfor Terry today. He first learnt to playatMold in amounts of sand allowedhim to im- who went on to win the event. 1951 when acricket team-mate invited provehis bunker shots! Henlle president, RalphTomley, him foragame. “Here’shoping he has plentymore said: “Congratulations to them The 24-handicapper,fromTarvin, birthdays to celebrate with his many both. The tots were much appreci- NoelPughe is still playing regular golfatSandiway at the ageof92. near Chester,was club captain in 1970 friends at the club.” ated.” Send your stories to: [email protected] 9 GolfersLocal February 2013 Local News

LeeParkaward

LEEParkGolf Club has been TREVOR named The Golf Environment Awards north region winners. The award, whichhas been run- ning for17years, was presented to the club in recognition of its envi- ronmental stewardship. RECOGNISED Alistair Beggs, from the York- shire-based Sports Turf Research Institute,madethe trip to Liverpool earlier this month to present the club with their trophy. FOR LOYALTY “Theawardshows the club’s drive andpassion foroptimizingthe per- BY PAUL CHAPPLE Pictured (L-R) at LeeParkare:past captain Geoff Smith, chair of green Alan Pennington, formance of the ,” said ALIVERPOOL golf club has this Trevor Clark, captain TomTrafford and past captain Dr Ken Shiffman. month made aspecial presentationtoits Alistair. longest ever serving member of staff. Imadethe move.Therest, as theysay,is that is much moretime consuming now member in 1976 it was that hot that some “Theenergyand enthusiasm the Headgreenkeeper,TrevorClark, was history.” compared to when Ifirst started. of the locals would sneak onto the course club has shown is ashining example the star guest forthe lunch-time bash The former apprentice carpenter,who “Wealso havetodomuchmorework and go skinny-dipping in the pond be- and thereare alot of golf clubs across after he reached the 40-year service mile- lives round the corner from his beloved at the weekends to havethe course look- tween the fourth and sixth fairways!” the whole of the UK that could learn stone.Fellowstaff,members and club of- club with his wifeJackie,explained that ing the best it possiblycan forthe compe- The modest Liverpool supporter,who alot from the LeeParkteam,”added ficials were allinattendance to see the much has changed in the the 40 years. titions,”said Trevor,who lovestospend was appointed headgreen-keeper seven Alistair,who lives in Heswall. 60-year-old receiveaspecial barometer,a He said: “Thejob of agreenkeeper has his sparetime with his sevengrandchil- years ago, is most proud of the fourth Three members of the club have pair of engraved pens, akeepsake trophy altered so much over the years, mainly dren. green, whichheand the other members nowbeen invited to aChampagne and acoffee pot from the ladies in recog- due to the vast improvements in machin- The task of gettingthe courseintip- of thegreens staff built themselvesinthe breakfast at the PGA Champi- nitionofhis loyalty. ery. top shape hasn’t been an easy oneinthe 1980s. onship at Wentworthlater this year. The dadoffive joined the club in 1973, “Lee Park was the poorest golf club in past 12 months though. “I’malso proud to sayI’venever been but it could easilyhavebeen ayear earlier. the area so we used to getbroken hand “I’ve neverknown the weather be as late forworkin40years,”said Trevor, “I was working forBalshaw’s Nurseryin machine cast offsfromHuyton&Prescot badasitwas lastyear.It’sfar and away who stillworks six days each week. 1972 when afriend of mine from the golf and Childwall. We hadamechanic here the worst summer we’vehad in the 40 Club captain TomTrafford said: “We club mentioned that therewas ajob who would fix them and then we’d re-use years,”headded. owe Trevor agreat debt of gratitude for going,” explained Trevor. them. “Wehad an external companycomein both his expertise and allhis hardwork “I hadaninterviewwith TerryHolmes, “Theactual job of maintaining the and do intensivedrainageworkabout 20 over the years.” the then headgreenkeeper,but the money course is alot easier thesedaysaswe’re years agoand this year we’vehad to spend The fresh air is what Trevor describes wasn’t enough so sadlyIhad to sayno. nowreally up-to-date with our equip- alot of time clearing that and getting it as the best partofthe job.And his love ment and havesit-onmachines as well as back working at fullcapacity. affair with the role was summed up per- About 12 months later Igot acalltosee Alistair Beggs, from STRI,presents the if Iwas stillinterested. The moneywas the hand held ones. It’s the paperwork for “Itwas very different from the sum- fectlywhen asked what the worst partof plaque to LeeParkcaptain TomTrafford bumped up abit so Iwas really happyand Health &Safetyand the environment mers we seemed to getinthe past.Ire- the job was. “Thereisn’t one,”hesaid. with club officials and staff also pictured.

OLSTANTON W GOLF CLUB

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Tonyperformsadesert classictosealwin

GRADUATES ASHROPSHIREgolfer has tri- umphed on the EuropeanAmateur GolfTour after winning the opening event of the 2013 season in Abu Dhabi. SOAK ITUP Tony Meehan, from Henlle Park THREE Myerscough Collegegolf man- BY DAVID BIRTILL Golf Club,near Oswestry,scored agement graduates areinthe United 171 Stablefordpoints over five Arab Emirates forsix-month internships internship in time forEuropean Tour rounds at YasLinks and Saadiyat at Abu Dhabi and Saadiyat Beach resorts. curtain-raising Abu Dhabi HSBC clubs as well as the Abu Aspiring professionals Steven Hewitt, Championship,whichwas won by Mac- The three graduates (from the left) Simon Borley, SteveHewitt and Scott Wood with Phil Waine. Dhabi Falcon Golf Club,which 23, from Warrington,SimonBorley, 24, clesfield’s . staged the HSBC Championship from Wiltshireand 22-year-old Scott The opportunitywas made available PGA professional RickDaniels, the “Theopportunitytoworkbehind the the week before. Wood, from Telford, allgraduatedfrom because of the college’sextensive network college’scourse leader forthe Golf Man- ropes during the HSBC Abu Dhabi He beat his nearest rival, Derek the International Institute of Golf Edu- within the global golf industry. agementDegree,said: “Being able to offer Championship was atruly aone-off ex- Love,fromTheWisleyGolf Club, cationinajoint venturebetween Myer- Phil Waine,headofoperations at the graduates the experience to work at one perience. Surrey,byjust twopoints. scough and Central Lancashire Abu Dhabi Golf Resort who graduated of the world’sbest moderngolf resorts is “Thefactthat theyare working under His victorymeans the nine-hand- University. from Myerscough in 2005, willoversee what makes Myerscough unique.Theex- the guidance of aformer student shows icapper nowqualifiesautomatically Theyarrived in the UAEtobegin their the work of the three interns. perience is unrivalled. the type of career paths we canoffer.” forthe UK final at Turnberry in Oc- tober. MACCLESFIELD MEMBERS REVEL IN JAMIE’S TOUR JOY

THE golf club whereEuropean Tour vice-president at the Cheshireclub, “All members of the club willbefol- star Jamie Donaldson playedasajunior whichhestill visits regularly to help the lowing him closelyoverthe coming is celebrating his latest success –The current crop of juniors. month or so as he prepares to playin HSBC Championship,inAbu Dhabi This year’s club captain, Neil Mutter, his first US Masters in April.” last month. said:“Weare allveryproud of Jamieand The 37-year-old, who turned proin Donaldson beat astar studded field of what he achievedinwinning the Irish 2000, was the special guest of honour players and top Americans Open Championship last season. at the Annual Men’s Dinnerlastyear to win forthe second time and pocket a “That trophy has graced our trophy when he was presented with honorary cool €336,726 –muchtothe delight of cabinet and we areall lookingforward lifevice-presidency, onlythe second Macclesfield Golf Club members. to seeing Jamie with his newtrophy person at Macclesfield to be awarded Jamie Donaldson woninAbu Dhabi. The Welshman is an honorarylife soon. this after Fred Daly. Tony Meehan in AbuDhabi.

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Beaumaris, Anglesey, North Wales LL588HU T: 01248811717 E: [email protected] W: www.henllysgolfclub.co.uk ForClub Features email: [email protected] 11 GolfersLocal February 2013 Club Feature HEAD FOR HARWOOD AfterJanuary’striptoMytton Fold,inBlackburn, GolfersLocal’s PAUL CHAPPLEthis month heads back to the Lancashirehills to sample the delights of Harwood Golf Club,onthe outskirts of Bolton.

OUR regionisblessed with awide vari- BuryMeadows and the course was ex- etyofgolf course types from the stunning tended to the 18 holes that exist today. Links of the Fylde and NorthWales Alittle known partofthe club’s history coastline to the parkland gems of is its connectionwith the Holcombe Cheshireand Shropshire, and the upland Hunt: during the 1960s and 1970s the delights of Lancashire. hunt held their point-to-point races over Harwood Golf Club certainlyfalls into partofthe meadows, the 14th fairway the latter categoryand the 5,915-yard was partofthe last circuit, therewas a The Harwood course offersafine varietyofgolfing challenges. trackisabout as interesting and varied as water jump behind the 16th green ap- theycome. proached from over the 12th and 13th months has been made awhole lot easier make-up of the course with the front Some of the NorthWest’s top young As well as providing achallenging test, fairways and theyleftthe coursebyjump- by the club’s recent investment in new nine playedonterraced levels across a golfers havelearnt the game over this visitorsget to enjoyexcellent far-reaching ing over the ditchtothe right of the 15th machineryfor the tees, fairways and steep gradient while the back nine is hilltop delight. Former England Boys views that take in JodrellBank Observa- fairway. greens, including anew greens iron, much flatter and constructed on the captain Ian Stirling and Royal Birkdale- toryand Manchester’s HiltonHotel and, The Sundayafter the races saw many whichhas made amassivedifference to aforementioned meadow. attached lady proKelly Tidy arestillseen on aclear day, as far afield as North memberscongregate to fillinthe divots the putting surfaces. Visitors willfind numerous holesofin- playing regularly at Harwood when their Wales. left by the horses. David said: “It’swidelyacknowledged terest throughout, but the Signaturehole busy schedules allow. Founded in 1926 by four Bolton shop- Nowadays the smallbut friendly club herethat late last year the greens were as is the par three fourth. The club’s PGA professional Clive keepers, the club is ararityinthat its has about 250 fullplaying male members The 192-yardtest has apostagestamp Loydellisrecuperatingwellafter alay-off competitionday has always been on a and 40 ladies as well as athriving junior sizegreen with water on either side.There with illness and cantake much of the Sundayasopposed to the usual Saturday. section. It has teams playing in both the Visitors gettoenjoy is even trouble if yougolongtoo and it’s credit forthe youngsters coming through. This is stillthe case todayand the ladies, Bolton and BuryLeagues: in 2009 it won excellent far-reaching easy to see whyithas astrokeindex of NowHarwood also boasts aseparate who started agolfing sectionin1933, the Buryand District Golf Association just five. teaching prowho is able to make use of haveWednesdayastheirs as this, by tra- League and was runners up in the Bolton views that take in Jodrell The stunning views areadelight the amplysized practiceground, which dition, is half dayclosing in Bolton. Golf AssociationBaileyTrophyLeague throughout, but the very best vantage includes apractice bunker,and plans are The result of this anomalyisthat visi- Matchplaycompetition.The ladies teams Bank Observatory, point is from the eighth and ninth tees – afoot to develop this area further. tors and societies arewelcome on aSatur- compete in both the silverand bronze di- the latter being another oneofthe stand- Harwood also prides itself on the qual- day. Club captain David Johnston visions of the LancashireHandicap Manchester’s Hilton out holes.This 437-yard dog-leg par four ityofits catering,whichisrun by Man- explained: “On Saturdays the members Shield. In 2009 theywon the BDGA Ro- requires alongdrive to be able to reach chester Catering Company, and the tend to playfairly early on so by late taryRose Bowl and in June and August Hoteland,onaclear day, in twoand the trees havegrown down the clubhouse facilities areavailable forpri- morning and into the afternoonweare the club willhost twocountyladies golf leftside over theyears to make it increas- vate functions. able to accommodate visitors, whichis associationevents. as far afield as North inglydifficult.The strokeindex three hole The warmwelcome in the clubhouse rare foramembers’ club on aSaturday.” Despite these successes Harwood is, also boasts areplicaofthe famous makes the place amagnet forsocieties The initial course comprised four holes like manyothers, having arecruitment Wales. Swilcan Bridgeonthe 18th at St An- from right across the regionand in Sep- on land immediatelybehind the Nabs drivefor moreladyand junior members good as they’ve ever been and with the drews. tember each year the societyorganisers Fold pub and included the fields to the this year. lack of footfalllast month because of the Hole 15 once laidclaim to being the areinvited back,freeofcharge, fora leftand right of the existing club drive- “We’re adapting our membership snowthey’ve hadarest and we hope they longest par fiveinthe Boltonarea, and at highlycompetitivebut fun golf day– way. An additional 84 acreswereacquired packages to suit the golfer,” said David. aregoing to be even better this year.” 556 yards it’s stillacracker of achallenge. British Aerospace being the current hold- shortlyafter,uponwhichthe present “Wehavefive,six and seven-daymem- The Harwood course is located in two Normally athree-shot hole even forthe ers. clubhouse and holes one, two, three and berships available and also havetiered different countyboroughs with ahandful longer hitters, it is fraught with danger as Iwas fortunate enough to enjoyHar- 18 arelocated to enable anine-hole rates for18to35year olds,”headded. of holesinBuryand the clubhouse and youplot your wayoverthree ditches, the wood’s great hospitalityaswellassample course to be built. The tough job of recruiting more majorityofthe other holes in Bolton. thirdofwhichisjust 60 yards shortofthe the delights of the course,and thisyear In 1961 the club rented extraland at members and visitors in the coming It is atale of twohalvesinterms of the green. maybeyou should too.

HARWOOD SPECIAL 4BALLRATES OPEN GOLF CLUB Only £70 per 4ball (Monday -Saturday) COMPETITIONS MEMBERSHIP DEAL 2013 Introductory offers available for new members plus no joiningfee • 14th May -Seniors Pairs Open • 31st May–Ladies Open Team • Tel: 01204 522878 SOCIETY PACKAGES 30th June –Men’s Pairs Open Harwood Golf Club Package 1 -Bacon roll tea/coffee on arrival • 2nd Sept –Ladies Team Open Roading Brook Road, &18holes of golf £18pp • 10th Sept –Seniors Team Open Harwood, Bolton, Package 2 -Bacon roll tea/coffee on arrival, Applications via the secretary or Lancashire www.harwoodgolfclub.co.uk 18 holes golf &2-course meal £28pp www.golfempire.co.uk BL24JD GolfersLocal February 2013 12 Foradvertisinge-mail: [email protected] THE Raa PHILOSOPHY • At RaaPuttersweknowthe dio’ based at our head office in is themostusedclub in the Macclesfield,Cheshire. With Raa bag butalso themostover- thehelpand expertiseofour looked partofthe average veryown full-time PGA golf pro- golfer’spractice. fessional andcertified puttingin- structor,Lee Sullivan,who uses • When it comestoputting, we thenew studio, notonly to help follow alearn,understand,de- andcoach players onall aspects velop, improve philosophy, not of putting,but also to carry out onlywhenitcomes to ourputters putter fittingsusing the state-of- with their cordialgroove technol- the-art,Quintic BallRollv2.4 ogy,which hasbeen designed System. to maximisethe ball roll. We also followthe same philosophy • Together with ourputters, that when it comestoourcoaching are eachmilled from asolid of putting. blockofsteel becauseitissimply themostprecise method, anda • Oneofour many goalsatRaa PGAgolfprofessional whohas Putters is to trytochange the dedicated himself in this area of golfer’smentality andmispercep- thegame, we know we are put- tionswhenitcomes to using the tingtogether auniquecombina- INTRODUCING... ‘flat stick’. That’swhy we have re- tion to help allgolfers improve cently invested and now opened this stilllargelyoverlooked, but THEQUINTIC BALLROLL SYSTEM thebrandnew ‘RaaPuttingStu- most important partofthe game.

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ProTourshowsits GRASSROOTS supportforjuniorgolf THE NorthWest ProTour hasgone into partnership with the North West of England Junior Golf Tour owned by Andrew Kendalland en- dorsed by Paul Eales. GOLF GETS A Jack Brooks, director of the Chor- ley-based tour,explained:“Weare of- fering successful juniors the opportunitytopeg it up with our professionals.The winner of each age BIGBOOST group order of merit willreceivean invitation to compete as an amateur CURTIS Cup winner Bronte Lawis friends, golf is agame to be enjoyed. in our event at Hollins Hall. backing the drivetoencouragemorepeo- “Itisveryaddictive–and youalways “Weare also forging alink with ple to take up playing golf. want to do better next time youplay! the Golf Foundation and hope to The 17 year-old from Stockportissup- That’s the beautyofthe sport–itcan be raise £5,000 from aPro-Junior-Am- porting the latest round of Get into golf enjoyedonsomanylevels.” Am at aNorth West course in Au- sessions in Cheshire. Andshe believesgirls and ladies gust.” The BramhallGolf Club member –a should not be put off by anymisconcep- Brooks added: “This is our second keypartofthe successful Great Britain tions surrounding golf. year and it is already looking like it is and Ireland team whichbeat their Amer- “Of course,it’sacool game,” she says. going to be an exciting one.Our ican rivals at Nairn–believesgolf is a “It’safantastic game,too,for making new BronteLaw is supporting the Get intogolfdrive. Order of Merit winner willearna great sportfor allagesand abilities. friends –and girls love to socialise! trip of lifetime,whichwillbean- Free taster sessions and discounted golf “I havemadesuchgood friends “You always feel youcan do better,no playing forEngland or taking partinthe nounced at the Tour School at Mar- lessons areavailable as partofthe Get through golf.Thereisalwayssomeone to matter howgood aplayeryou are.” biggest tournaments. Asocial game riott WorsleyParkonFebruary25.” into golf scheme whichthe Cheshire talk to who is going through the same The plus three handicapper added: amongst friends canbeevery bit as en- Meanwhile,the NW Junior Tour CountyGolf Partnership oversees at kind of experience as you–whether that “Frommyexperience of golf,you should joyable –and just as good foryour health ensured the opening events of the clubs across the county. be playing in acompetitionorenjoying a nevergiveup. If youhavegot atarget in and well-being.” year were unaffected by the weather Bronte,who has been named as agolf- group lessonwith other beginners. mind,keep working towards it. It is not Get into golf opportunities include by competing at West Lancs and ing ambassador forthe CheshireCGP, “I think my school friends haveseen about winning allthe time,but about free or low-cost beginner courses with Wallaseyovertwo days. enjoyedahugelysuccessful 2012, which howmuchpleasureIhavegot from golf learning and improving.” PGA professionals.Theyare afun and so- Topscoreatthe tough Blundell- included playing allfour rounds alongside and that it is not just agame forstuffy old Bronte started playing golf as ayoung ciable waytostartgolf. sands links was 73 by Southport& the world’sbest women professionalsat men but asportthat anyone canplayand child after asking her dadTim to take her To find your nearest centrevisit get- Ainsdale’s GeorgeOwen, Formby’s the RicohWomen’s British Open at enjoy. with him and joined aclub at the ageof intogolf.org and lookatthe activitymap Adam Clarke and Robbie Durnan, Royal Liverpool as well as the Curtis Cup “Players like Melissa Reid and Paula eight and has worked with the same or call 0800 118 2766 or youcan follow from Blundells Hill. triumph. Creamer arebecoming very well-known coach,RichardGreen, ever since. the link http://bit.ly/U9LyVQtothe Royal Liverpool’s John Ralph, Nowshe is urging other people to take and not just to the out and out golf fans. “I think lessons areagreat ideafor any- Cheshireactivitypage. competing in the Under-14 section up golf –and enjoythe manyhealth and Golf becoming partofthe Olympics at onetaking up the game,” she said. “They Forfurtherinformationonthe work of carded an outstanding 72 at Wal- social benefits the sportcan bring. Rio in 2016 willbeabig help to the canbealot of fun and canhelp develop the CheshireCGP visit their website lasey, three shots better than the rest “Itisone of the most fun sports there women’s game.” the skills needed to enjoythe sport. It is www.cheshiregolfpartnership.com. of the field. is,”saysthe CheadleHulme School pupil, Bronte –who willcelebrate her 18th not just acase of hitting golf balls out on who has won aplace at UCLA(Univer- birthdaynext month and who is aiming arange, but learning allthe timewhile an sityofCalifornia, LosAngeles) forSep- to join the sport’sprofessional ranks after enthusiasticcoach canreally inspireyou tember. “Atthe beginning, don’tget too completing her education–adds: “One of to do better.” OSWESTRY GOLF CLUB bogged down by the technical side of the great things about golf is that you Melanie Flude,regional development things but just enjoyhitting aballtostart neverknowwhat is going to happen officer forEngland Golf,added: “Weare with! when yougoout to play. Some days delighted that Bronte has agreed to be- “With the help of the Get into golf everything goes your wayand youscore come agolf ambassador forthe Cheshire schemes, the coaches at clubs across well,but another time the putts might not CountyGolf Partnership. Cheshirewillhelp youtoimproveand get drop and it just doesn’t happen foryou. “She has shown what canbeachieved the most out of the sport. It doesn’t mat- “Itcan be very frustrating,but after a by hardworkand dedicationand canlook Est 1903 ter whether youare playing at England disappointing round youcan’t wait to get forwardtoabright futureinthe sport. international levelorasocial game with out thereand do better next time. “But, as she says,itisnot allabout Shack Golf Trolley & Buggy Repair Services

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Murray joins ISM

TOMMurray, winner of the 1836 NORTH REGION Tour’s European Tour School Order of Merit in 2012, is to be represented by International Sports Manage- ment. The 22-year-old, who is the son of UNDER NEW former European Tour golfer An- drew Murray, willplayonthe 2013 ChallengeTour and made his debut at the Gujarat Kensville Challenge late last month. ORDERS “I’mthrilled to be joining sucha renowned stable and delighted that IT’S back to the futurefor the PGA BY DAVID BIRTILL the season is nowunderway,”said NorthRegionwho haverestructured Murray, who completed athree-year their schedule and halvedtheir Order of Toptwo arethe NorthRegionCham- PGA degreeatDidsburyGolf Club Merit tournaments to five. pionship and Leeds Cup,both sponsored last year. AndPro-Ams willnolongercount for by De Vere.Theremainders arethe Man- “Tom is agolfer with lots of poten- ranking points. chester Open, James BrearleyLancashire tial,”said ISM group chief executive Regional secretaryGraham Malyex- Open and anew event, the Yorkshire officer, Andrew ‘Chubby’ Chandler. plained: “Wehavereturned to our former PGA Masters. “Heisaverywelcome addition.” tried and trusted method because it’s Malyadded: “Theoverall number much fairer and moremanageable. could increase to six because we arehop- Tourstarinaction “TheinclusionofPro-Ams in recent ing to announce an event in the North De Vere Herons’ Reach will host the main ranking openerinJune.INSET: Graham Maly. years was not popularwith manyofour East. It’s suchahugegolfing area it is im- professionals who could not affordthe portant that it figures in our schedule. oured forassistant professionals. Penwortham in Mayand also via our ASHTON’SEuropean Tour star time to compete in them.” “ThefourPGA counties play abig part Arecordfive tournaments, an increase main Tour School.” Matt Nixonwas givenspecial dis- Tour Schools on both sides of the Pen- in the regionand we aredeterminedto of twoonprevious years, willnot only Yorkshire, with the greatest number of pensation to playinaBetterballSta- nines, whichwereintroduced last season, recognise the fact by staging an Order of provide them with morechances to clubs, willstagetwo events with Ilkley blefordevent to help raise moneyfor willdetermine qualifications forthe main Merit event in allofthem.” showcase their burgeoning talents but hosting the curtain-raising NorthRegion captain John Lewis’scharity, RNLI. events whichfallinto twocategories. Andthat pledge has already been hon- help them to securetheir futures. Assistants’ Championship on May3. His tee time was sold to the high- Malysaid: “It’scrucial that our assis- The rest of the fixtures, pre-fixed North est bidder,Steve Barlow, and with MAIN RANKING EVENTS Aug 28-29: YorkshirePGA Masters(Sandburn Hall) tants compete against each other because RegionAssistants’ Challenge, areat Nixonplaying off plus five, the pair June 18-19: De Vere PGANorth Region Champi- Sep9-10: JamesBrearleyLancashireOpen (Black- theyare obligedtoreturn sevencards in Durham resortRockliffeHallonJuly4; finished thirdwith 43 pointsafter a onship (Herons’Reach) pool NorthShore). gross 63 from the young hot-shot. July 29-30: The Manchester Open (Marriott Worsley TOUR SCHOOL each of their three years in training. the SueWright Trophy at HelsbyonJuly “They willalso haveother opportuni- 18; at BoltononAugust 15; and the 36- The eventual winners, with asu- Park) April 17-18: Bolton perbscoreof46points, RoyBaker Aug 21-22: De Vere Leeds Cup (Oulton Hall) April 23-24: Normanton ties to gain experienceinthe Powerade hole Harold Lees Trophy at Dore&Tot- National Assistants’ qualifying round at leyonSeptember 2-3. and NigelKay.

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To AVAILABLE Whatever your level, book alesson Call: 01829 782157, 07768 746699ore-mail: [email protected] with our PGA pro and Titleist fitness Website:www.alderseygreengolfclub.co.uk coach Stuart Hursfield. Visit www.stuarthurstfield.myprogolfer.co.uk Aldersey Green Golf Club,Aldersey, Chester CH3 9EH for more details Send your stories to: [email protected] 15 GolfersLocal February 2013 ProNews

EDDIE RETIRESWITH BROMBOROUGH ROYALSALUTE GOLFCLUB BY DAVID BIRTILL Considered by many to be the best parkland course in the area with more than 100 years of history. Host to the THE wordscame straight from the heart prestigious English Amateur Championship in 2005, it’s when Eddie Birchenough exclaimed: an excellent test of golf all-year-round. “I’ve been averylucky guy.” He spoke in the past tense because he’d just retired after 26 years as professional at Royal Lytham &StAnnes. But try, if Wirral’s Parkland Jewel youdare, to keep him awayfromthe world-famous links whereheplans to make the most of the honorarymember- ship the club has bestoweduponhim. “I’ll certainlybehanging around here because Ilovethe place.It’sfantastic. It’s quality. It picks youup. It’s the people who come here. It’s enlivening.I’vealways looked forwardtogoing to work but here it’s gotbells and whistles on it!” No surprise,then, that Birchenough, stayedonuntil six months shortofhis 70th birthday. His interest in golf was ignited when he “was strongenough to carryabag”at Cavendish, the Derbyshireclub that means almost as much to him as Lytham. “Itshaped me and Igobacktoplaythere regularly,”he enthused.“Ilovethe place.I also haveabrother in Buxtonand my sis- Open Events 2013 ter lives in Chapel-en-le-Frith.” Birchenough joined the paid ranks as Date Competition Format an assistantatRomileyin1961, and after 27 May Team of 4any gender (max 2juniors) Best 2Stableford scores ayear with Malcolm HillatHazel Grove, 10 Jun Senior Men +55 4BBB he returned theretoworkunder the tute- 17 Jul Ladies Team of 4 Best 2Stableford scores lageofthe legendaryAlbertLeChevalier. Brimstage Brewery Golf Challenge - 4Aug Stableford 9-6-3 He then movedtoSouth Wales before Team of 4any gender (max 2juniors) taking his first fullprofessional job at 26 Aug Team of 4any gender (max 2juniors) Best 2Stableford scores Mellor &Townscliffebackinhis native 4Sep Senior Men +55 4BBB Stableford NorthWest, moving to Denton, whichhe described as “a wonderful club”, in 1969. More details and booking forms can be obtained via our But the wanderlust bug struckagain in website or call 0151 334 4499 1974 and this time it tookhim to Gog Magog,inCambridgewherehestayed Eddie Birchenough outside his Royal Lytham proshop. for14yearsand wherehewas to meet his wife Sylvia.“Theywereall wonderfulgolf been unstinting and has been agreat As Sylvia Wild, she represented Cam- Winter Special clubs,”herecalled. “I hadasgood an ed- mentor and teacher.” bridgeshirebut an operationonashoul- ucationatthem as Icould havewished. Seve Ballesteros won twoofhis three der injuryafew years agoeffectively Available to 31st March, 2013 “Mypassionisthat I’mastudent of the Claret Jugs at RoyalLytham, forthe final ended her playing days. or game and everywhereI’vebeen I’ve hada time in 1988. Birchenough hadonlybeen Birchenough considers the promotion £25pp £90 for apre-booked fourball free hand. Ihope it made me abetter pro- incumbent therefor 14 months but the from within of Ben Squires as his succes- (includes soup &sandwiches to end of February) fessional. Dealing with suchamyriad of event gavehim an insight of what to ex- sorasa“hugecompliment.” personalities arms youfor futurelife. pect at futureChampionships. He was to He said:“The club obviouslylikethe Call Geoff Berry on 0151 334 4499 “I fitted in well at Cambridgewhich, experience three moreand last year’s ex- waywe’ve runthings and theywant it to of course,isaseat of learning,and Iused travaganzaplayedabig partineasing his continue that way.” alot of the people from the universities passageinto retirement. Squires is oneofseveral highlyre- to help me understand the physics and “I did not havetime to dwelluponhow spected assistants who haveworkedwith Society & Away Days geometryofthe .” it would affect me.That was down to the Birchenough including Paul Eales, An- Clearly something of aperfectionist, Open, whichwas absolutelyhuge. We drew Lancaster,Scott Partingtonand Special packages available Birchenough arrived at the iconic Lan- were stillliving on the ripples of it right John Twissell. “Whateverwe’ve achieved cashirelinks on AllFool’s Day1987. “I until the dayIleft. I’dhad agreat career herewe’ve done it as ateam,”heasserted. from £25pp (minimum 12 people). was stillfar from the finished article but but Iknewwhen it was time to stand “They’veall been ahugeasset to the the members embraced me and I’ve hada aside. club and to some extent havecarried me. Call 0151 334 4499 for availability wonderfultime,” he reflected. “I was in- “Thegame’s changed over the last 10 When Icame hereI’d no idea about the vited to playall over the worldatsuch years and there’sayounger energycoming sizeand the scope of the job.For instance, places as Augusta and Pine Valley –not through.There’snothing worse than peo- ‘Twiss’ hadbeen working in Americaat because Iwas Eddie Birchenoughbut be- ple hanging on!Apartfromplaying,I Baltusrol and Palm Beach Gardens and Memberships available cause Iwas proatRoyal Lytham!” haveacouple of dogs, whichwillkeep me he introduced some of the moreservice All categories –5-day, 6-day &7-day He’s rubbedshoulders with most of the fit.” orientated methods theyused over there.” great and the good including Arnold He and Sylvia, who havebeen married As aplayer, Birchenough belonged to Call Geoff Berry on Palmer,JackNicklaus and GaryPlayer. 38 years, livenear Fairhaven Lake,and the generation, whichinthe 1960s had 0151 334 4499 “I met most of them when theyplayed were also partners in the business. “She only ahandful of tournaments to com- in the Open Championship here,”he always looked after the shop,particularly pete in. “Itwasn’t until John Jacobs got Please quote voucher code when youcall said, describing Doug Sanders as his the softgoods side of it, and hadagood hold of the Tour that therewas aprospect GL02/13 close,personal friend. “He’sbeen an in- relationship with the people we dealt of makingaliving out it. But Iwas always spirationtomeoverthe years. Whenever with.Therewas usually abunchofflowers moreinterested in teaching,” he con- www.bromboroughgolfclub.org.uk I’ve asked forsomeofhis time he’s always in the corner!” cluded. GolfersLocal February 2013 16 Send your stories to: [email protected] ProNews

Jordan’sreadytostep upasassistantpro

WEBSTER’S JORDANFlint has taken the big de- cision to join the PGA ranks and has started his training as MartinBeaty’s assistant at Crompton &Royton. In his first tournament as apro in FEELING AT the Manchester Alliance at Leigh, he finished in the moneytopickuphis first paycheque. As ajunior he was LancashireU16 champion and at the ageof17was HOME ON THE the youngest-everclub champion in Crompton's 104-year history. Jordan said: “I would like to give a bigthank youtomymum and dadfor allthe time and moneytheyhave RANGE givenmetosupportmygolf in travel and entry fees and also to Martinfor THINGS areabout to getawhole lot BY DAVID BIRTILL coaching my game and Iamde- busier forStAnnes OldLinks headpro- lighted that he willbemyPGA men- fessional Daniel Webster who has taken professional supervised coaching ses- tor forthe next three years. over anearby driving rangeand re- sions.” “I nowaim to getmyPGA quali- branded it the Lytham Golf Academy, Webster,the Foremost professional, fication and see what comes from it whichhewillrun alongside his club du- has assembled ateam of PGA assistant either in England or abroad. ties. professionals who willworkatthe range “I haveagreat ambition forteach- “Weare making substantial changes to and at his club,whichlast Julyhosted the ing the game and to be asuccessful the whole layout of the place and creating Open Championship local final qualify- club proand create agreat set-up like aloungeand viewing area and planning ing. Martinhas. further improvements to the retail area,” His wifeRebeccawillalso be heavily “But Istill intend to staycompet- he said. involved. Shewillmanagethe day-to-day itiveand hopefully getsuccess play- “Our aim is to inspireand educate operationsatthe range, whichisdue to ing in the Manchester Alliance, NorthRegion and other proevents.” golfers withenthusiasm and offer PGA open this month. DanielWebster at the range. PGA PROFESSIONALJAMES GIVES JUNIOR GOLF ABOOST IN TRAFFORD

JUNIOR golf in Traffordhas been He has taken on the role as headpro- and the other forthose aged 12-18 years. givenagreat boost by the work of local fessional at Altrincham Golf Club “During the winter months these are PGA proJames Salt. working with TraffordCommunityand runindoors at the Golf School in Al- James began his golf as ajunior at LeisureTrust with an emphasis of trincham to keep the players active and Ringwaywhere he achievedgreat suc- building ajunior section like thereused readyfor the newseason. cess. to be in the past. “Thegolf club is well on its wayto He then enjoyedagolf scholarship in James said:“I havetaken the numbers achievingthe coveted GolfMarkstatus, Americabeforereturning to the local of juniors at the club from twotomore making us one of the fewclubs in the area and gothis PGA qualification than 40 with our monthlycompetitions area to achieve it through the great de- when an assistant proatAshton-under- nowagreat feature. velopment work being done to bring Lyne. “Wesplit the groups into three sec- golf to the local communityfor both He then returned to hisAltrincham tions depending on abilityand are young and old.” roots to pursue his coaching ambitions thereforeable to cater foryoungsters of Formoreinformation about junior and has been working closelywith Sport allstandards. development or getting into golf con- Traffordtodeliver golf in schools, both “I also runtwo junior sessionsonSat- tact James on 07515 447653 or email James Salt at work with youngstersatthe golfschool. in and out of school hours. urdaymornings –one forfour-11 years james.salt@traffordleisure.co.uk.

DENBIGH GOLF CLUB Advertiseyour The PuttingStudio club’sdetails in our ClubDirectory NEW indoor putting studio on page 38 forless than Using the latest TOMI Pro technology £5 per edition! Guaranteed to improve your putting For all golf enthusiasts Video analysis and putting stats Call Putt like apro 01978 449917 Sessions from just £25 or email WINTER PACKAGES “DRIVEFOR SHOW... [email protected] Weekdays £21 Weekends £24 PUTTFOR DOUGH” beforeFriday, Full breakfast,18holes of golf, soup &aroll OR Sausagesandwich &coffee, 18 holes of golf, 2-course meal Tel: 07792 224634 OPENDAILY 1st Marchtobe (Available 1st October,2012 to 31st March, 2013) E-mail: [email protected] 9am -10pm included in Website: www.theputtingstudio.co.uk next month’sedition Denbigh GolfClub, Henllan Road,Denbigh, LL16 5AA Tel01745 816669 The Putting Studio, 43 Liverpool Road South, Maghull, Liverpool L31 7BN E: [email protected] W:www.denbighgolfclub.co.uk (located behind Mocha’s Coffee Shop at Switch Island M57/M58) Foradvertisinge-mail: [email protected] 17 GolfersLocal February 2013 GolfersLocal February 2013 18 Send your stories to: [email protected] Juniors News WESTWOODREVEALS NEW TOURINITIATIVE LEE Westwood, who has his owngolf travel largedistances in order to compete. fully supported by PINGattheir new school based at Macdonald Portal Hotel, The Tour is open to allgolfers aged factorysite in Gainsborough. Golf &Spa, near Chester,has announced under 21 on January1,2013 with arecog- The Tour is being set up in multiple plans foranexciting newjunior golf ini- nised handicap of 28 andless forboysand areas of Britain, allowing as manyyoung tiativetostartin2013. 36 and less forgirls. golfers as possible to play‘on tour’on The LeeWestwood Golf Tour is de- Thereare various categories to playin some of the finest golf courses around. signed to givemoreyoung golfers in the with prizes coming from some of West- Leesaid: “TheTour brand willcreate a UK an opportunitytotap intosomeof wood’s existing sponsors, PING, Dunlop, national network of golf events forjunior the excellent golfing facilities and PGA Druh Belts and Buckles. golfers and provide them with an oppor- LeeWestwood is to launchanotherjunior initiativethis year. professionals the UK has to offer. The players willbecompeting in an tunitytoplayatour just like their golfing The LeeWestwood Golf Tour is ase- order of merit fortheir playing category heroes. Andwho knows? Perhaps oneday tunity to volunteer as atournament con- If youare interested in becoming a ries of mini golf tours that arebeing with theleading playerfromeach‘Tour some of them willgoontocompete on troller.These volunteers areaffectionately ‘Golf Maker’orparticipating on the Tour, launched on aregional basis across the Area’winning an invite to the LeeWest- the European Tour.” known as ‘Golf Makers’and aid in the de- contact LeeWestwood Golf Tour on UK in order that young golfers havea wood Golf Tour PlayersChampionship The Tour has also launchedavolunteer velopment of junior golf throughout the 01829 730753 or visit the website chance to play‘on tour’without having to at the end of the season; the daywillbe scheme.Thescheme provides an oppor- country. www.leewestwoodgolftour.com. ROSSENDALE JUNIORSBEATTHE BIG FREEZE

THE Lancashirehills were hit by more club’s development team theyenjoyed Newmember Jacob Parker said: “It snowthan manyothers in the region last twohours of fun in the freezing temper- was really good fun and helped me get month but that didn’t deter the club’s atures. to knowsome of the other juniors.” youngsters. Theywerefirst introduced to the Junior section chair,Andrew With the normal adult competition sportofFrisbee Golf,using targets set Nicholls added: “Itwas an enjoyable postponed Rossendale’s juniors were around the course.Then, usingTriGolf dayfor the kids and helps keep them stillkeen to practice and not to be de- equipment normally used to introduce involved with the club,evenwhen the terredbythe snowgot out on the course. newgolfers in schools to the sport, went course is not available forconven- The Rossendale juniors have fun in the snow. With the help of parents and the out to practice their swings. tional golf.”

01352 840 440

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NORTHOP COUNTRYPARK,NORTHOP,FLINTSHIRE CH7 6WA www.northoppark.co.uk e:[email protected] t: 01352 840 440 Send your stories to: [email protected] 19 GolfersLocal February 2013 Juniors News

Stamfordsuccess BusytimesatWalton

STAMFORDGolf Club juniors AWARRINGTON-based golf pro willbelooking formoreofthe same CELEBRATION FOR is going above and beyond when it this year followingasuccessful 2012. comes to trying to getmorelocal Theyretained the Tameside Jun- juniors playing the game. ior League title and eight of the Paul Hodgson, who tookoverthe youngsters dropped their handicaps lease at Walton HallGolf Club last into single figures. year with business partner Nick DIDSBURYJUNIORS Stark, has introduced numerous Anumber arebeginning to make their marks at countylevel and they schemes to promote the game to also performed well in the Joanne youngsters and his hardworkis MorleyJunior ChallengeatSale. starting to paydividends. Therewas apacked house at the “Weoffercoaching on allaspects club fortheir annual presentation of the game on Saturday afternoons evening when the prizes forthe sea- in twoage group sections. These are son’s ‘majors’ and medals were proving moreand morepopular and dished out. we’rehoping to achieve GolfMark The juniors arecoached by Stam- status in the next couple of months,” ford proMarkSmith, who worked said Paul. closelywith European Tour player “We’re deliveringTriGolftoWar- Matt Nixonwhen he was assistant rington schools and arealso explor- proatAshton and also caddied for ing the possibilityofworking with him in his first fewevents on Tour. the WarringtonWolvesFoundation, And Nixonmadethe youngsters whichwould see us delivering an ex- nights as he tooktime out of his hec- citing newinitiativecalled Street ticschedule to present the trophies Golf,” he added. to the winners. Another venturewillsee the for- mer Carden Park proproviding a Didsbury’sjuniors with club officials and members. Young Leaders’ Training Course, DIDSBURY juniors cannow set their BY GEOFF GARNETT Young Eagle of the Year was Ben whichwillallow some of the older sights on the newseasonaheadafter cel- Pierce who also tookthe Peter Knight children to help supportthe younger ebrating asuccessful 2012 with aGreen- awardand he welcomes anyhelp from Trophy with Callum Shaw in second. ones. some competitionfollowedbyameal and members in achieving this aim and also Callum won the Arthur Woodyear “It’sareally busy time and the the presentationoftheir ‘major’trophies. to swellthe junior sectionin2013. Shield from junior captain Sana Ahmed plan is to work with some of the local The daywas organised by Rob Caruana The Greensome winners were Josh with Sana winning the Jamie Wright special schools too,” added Paul. beforehehanded over the reins of junior Curtis and ColinHartleyfromCallum Memorial Shield from Josh Curtis. Forfurther information on anyof organiser to TimDibble. Shaw and TimDibble in divisionone Josh was the winner of the Graham the above,pop in to the Walton Hall The Stamfordjuniors with club officials Timwillbelooking to see if Didsbury and Anna and Tony Lavan led Charlie O’NeillTrophyfromCallum Shaw and Golf Shop,call01925 263061 or and European Tour star Matt Nixon. canwin the coveted junior GolfMark and TedBiddlecombe in divisiontwo. the Ladies Cup went to Jack Mellor. email [email protected].

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Call nowon01772 744630 East Lancashire Road,Swinton, Manchester M27 5LX Penwortham Golf Club, Blundell Lane, Penwortham, PrestonPR1 0AX Tel: 0161794 0861 Email: [email protected] www.penworthamgc.co.uk Website: www.swintonparkgolfclub.co.uk GolfersLocal February 2013 20 Forleagueupdates e-mail: [email protected] Fantasy Golf League2013

PosTeam name Manager Pts PosTeam name Manager Pts PosTeam name Manager Pts

1 TIGER BICKS DAVE BICKERDYKE 1710 101 DANNYADAMSGOLF.COM DANNY ADAMS 690 201 PORT VETS 3 CLIVE HUGHES 320 2 ROGUES GALLERY CARL BLACKWELL 1595 102 DAVA 1999 DAVID WILLIAMS 675 202 NANA LUSHY LIPS GEOFFREY FOULKES 320 3 SNOOKER LOOPY 4 ALAN NORWOOD 1580 103 SHROPSHIRE LASS CLAIRE WILLIAMS 675 203 28 BLACK BOB TAYLOR 305 4 MEAN MACHINE 2 MR.ROBERT WILLIAMS 1550 104 THE DUDLEY PIPER MIKE WORRALL 675 204 SNAP HOOK GRANT PICKVANCE 295 5 MURPHYS MUCKER DAVE GEE 1475 105 NEVER UP NEVER IN TOMMY WYNNE 670 205 CRABAPPLE MARGARET CRABTREE 295 6 BETHS DAD STEPHEN DAVIES 1455 106 PORT VETS 2 CLIVE HUGHES 670 206 TREBLE 99 DAVID TUCKER 290 7 “BACK SPINBOYS” MR PETER ROWLEY 1425 107 BABY BOYARMS TONY MATHER 660 207 CHARLIE’S ANGELS STEVE POWNELL 290 8 SNOWMAN WMANNING 1390 108 OUTLANE BOYS D.A.HOWARD 650 208 THE BOOTT ROOM GARY BOOTT 285 9 ED MASTERS GLYNN EDWARDS 1325 109 SHANKALOT1 MATTHEW EDWARDS 650 209 DREAM TEAM JEFF WORTHINGTON 280 10 2 LEE GROCOTT 1315 110 PUTT FORDOUGH DARREN KNOP 645 210 MAD MINX JOANNE ASPERY 280 11 ELEGANTDANCERS D.A.HOWARD 1310 111 TEAM BOBBY JONES JOHNS.ASPERY 645 211 JOHNNY HATESJAZZ KEN GOUGH 280 12 MYSTIC MEG BOBTAYLOR 1290 112 MARTINS BABES MARTIN EDWARDS 640 212 OMEGAMAN EIFION DAVIES 270 13 JUMEIRAH BEACH BOYS BRIAN EDWARDS 1255 113 JP’S ANCIENT &MODERN JOHN POWELL 635 213 LIZZIE BOB BOBTAYLOR 270 14 “SHEILAS WHEELS” RUSSWILLIAMS 1240 114 WIDER CUP 2 STEVE LEDDY 625 214 LONG HIGH DRAW CHRIS WITH 265 15 CHAMPIONS LEAGUE BRIAN EDWARDS 1225 115 RODGE’SALLSTARS BRYAN ROGERS 620 215 TOP2BOTTOM JOHNL.DAVIES 265 16 THE TWOAMIGOS RUSSWILLIAMS 1220 116 BOSSMANS BOYS TREFOR PRYTHERCH 610 216 OAKEYPOPEY KEITHPOPE 260 17 SALOPIAN FAGS GORDON TAYLOR 1205 117 SHROPSHIRE LAD JOHN A.WILLIAMS 605 217 SLICK PUTTERS BARRYMOSS 255 18 SNOOKER LOOPY 5 ALAN NORWOOD 1190 118 ANGIE’SANGELS 2 COLINJEPSON 600 218 OLD LINKS WARRIORS 2 MARK THISTLETHWAITE 250 19 PIN -HI LESLIEBALL 1190 119 FAIRWAY TO HEAVEN3 JOHNMAGILL 600 219 SAINTS RUS1 SIMON GANNON 245 20 BROM BICKS DAVE BICKERDYKE 1185 120 FIVE FORFOUR FORONE STEPHENDAVIES 595 220 THE REAL DEALS D.A.HOWARD 240 21 FAIRWAY TO HEAVEN4 JOHNMAGILL 1175 121 SAINTS RUS2 SIMON GANNON 595 221 DIDSBURY BUDIES CLIFF CLINKARD 240 22 MEATRUNNER STEPHENDAVIES 1160 122 SPARDUN 5 GERARD MOORE 595 222 ALJANE ALAN HILL 240 23 ELENI BICKS DAVE BICKERDYKE 1150 123 KING OF THE SWINGERS JEDSKELTON 590 223 ITELLYOU WOT. DAVID TUDOR 235 24 NOTACLUE RAYDAVIES 1140 124 MINFFORDD WIL G.JONES 580 224 OLD LINKS WARRIORS 1 MARK THISTLETHWAITE 235 25 SPURSBICKS DAVE BICKERDYKE 1140 125 BIG BANGER SAMCOOPER 570 225 GREG’S NO.1 PAUL GREGORY 225 26 BICKS BALLS DAVE BICKERDYKE 1130 126 ONE MORE YARD DANNY KEARTON 570 226 WISHAND CHIPS MIKE WOOD 220 27 “SPARTANS” GEOFF OUSEY 1130 127 BANGOR LAD WIL G.JONES 570 227 PRESTATYN 1 LEE GROCOTT 210 28 “GREENMACHINE” TOMFAIRCLOUGH 1120 128 ALLY’S TOPLIP! JOHNL.DAVIES 565 228 CYRILS18TH TREE SHOT 2 STEVE O’SHAUGHNESSY 210 29 POULTON EDITCHFIELD 1120 129 SPARDUN 2 GERARD MOORE 560 229 EARLYRISERS 2 LES JONES 205 30 STELLA MARIS J.MCCAFFREY 1105 130 SCOUSE’SDELINQUENTS PHIL SCOUSE 540 230 BLYTH SPIRIT DEREKJOYNSON 195 31 ANY CHANCE MR BRIAN EDWARDS 1095 131 TOPTENNERS PHIL TURNER 540 231 O.P.I. M.MORRIS 195 32 WELL ROUNDED MOB GRAHAM ROUND 1085 132 SEAMORE MAJORS ALLAN PARKINSON 535 232 RAE RAE ANDSASS PHIL CORKER 190 33 BUNCH OF SHANKERS DEI REES 1075 133 THE ROSEMEN ALBERT BELL 535 233 SEVENPLUS TONY FLYNN 190 34 POUND,POUND,POUND BRIANEDWARDS 1065 134 PANIC STATIONS CHRIS ASHTON 535 234 MURPHYS PAL DAVE GANNON 190 35 LITTLE MO MAUREEN BURFORD 1065 135 MOMOREGOLF MAUREEN JOYNSON 530 235 KEV NA’S YIPPERS JOE O’DONNELL 175 36 CHIP NPIN ALAN DUNDAS 1035 136 THE PRESIDENT’S MEN ROGER BAMBER 525 236 BOTTOM HEAVY TOMATKINSON 150 37 PANCHOS PICKS PHILSCOTT 1035 137 TEAM TUDOR DAVID TUDOR 525 237 TRUSHES HAROLD HURST 150 38 ALL THE BEST DEALS JOSH KEATLEY 1030 138 OLD LINKS WARRIORS 4 MARK THISTLETHWAITE 525 238 ROOKIESGALORE CHRISASHTON 145 39 HOLGATES HALFWITS SEAN HOLGATE 1030 139 HOLGATES HOTSHOTS SEANHOLGATE 510 239 HOOD’S DUDS MARTIN HOOD 140 40 WERTHYS WARRIORS JEFF WORTHINGTON 1025 140 INTERY’NAN STEPHEN MURPHY 505 240 MUNDO’S BOYS MATMUNDY 140 41 SNOOKER LOOPY 3 ALAN NORWOOD 1020 141 DEMONPUTTERS ALAN ROBERTS 505 241 “THIRD CHANCE” ISLWYNLUKE 135 42 DRIVE FORSHOW DARREN KNOP 995 142 IVOR SHANKERS GAVIN OLDFIELD 500 242 STEAMY WINDOW MARK WINDOW 130 43 SNOOKER LOOPY 1 ALAN NORWOOD 975 143 PRESTATYN 3 LEE GROCOTT 500 243 3/4TON GEOFFREY BOOTT 130 44 MURPHYS MATE DAVE GEE 970 144 RAINMAN ERNIEBURFORD 500 244 RORY,GLORY USA JOE FILDES 120 45 JONS BOYS FOUR JOHNMYERS 970 145 RIVERSIDE RHORTON 500 245 GREG’S NO.2 PAUL GREGORY 120 46 HANSON’S HERO’S MR.PAULROBINSON 935 146 ISLA’S BOGEYS LEO BONATI 490 246 RAYS REBELS RAYFILDES 110 47 LINKS GALORE ANNE WILLIAMS 930 147 GOREYMCILROY DGORE 485 247 NO.4 RESCUE IAN CLARE 110 48 MERSEY 10 MR STEPHENWHITE 925 148 JAMBO KEVIN PATRICK 485 248 JESTER’S ARMY LEE OLDFIELD 110 49 LARRY,CURLYAND MOE TOMMY COOPER 925 149 FAIRWAY TO HEAVEN1 JOHNMAGILL 480 249 HONEYTEAM MIKE HONEYBOURNE 110 50 PATTI’S MOB GRAHAM PATTINSON 915 150 SPARDUN 1 GERARD MOORE 480 250 CYRIL 18TH TREE SHOT STEVE O’SHAUGHNESSY 105 51 TEN 4CLUBS ALAN CANTLAY 915 151 ROBINS NEST PAUL ROBINSON 475 251 T-BAY PAUL GREEN 95 52 FALDO GOTSIX MARK BROWN 910 152 WHY NOTME! JOE FILDES 475 252 BRIAN THE BIKE BRIAN JERSTICE 75 53 3LEGS OF MAN ROYCHRISTIAN 910 153 THE HACK ATTACK JAMES PARKER 465 253 US(A) &(SOU)THEM IAN WHITE 75 54 SUPER WHITE ARMY PETE COPELAND 910 154 SPARDUN 3 GERARD MOORE 465 254 FETTLERSALL STARS MARK REDFERN 70 55 THE MEANMACHINE 1 MR.ROBERT WILLIAMS 905 155 IFFER &SHUDDER ERNIECOTTON 465 255 POLLY’SDELIGHT RUSSDANIELS 70 56 R.V.THE TOPFIVE DAVID TUDOR 905 156 SCANDA-EUROS BRIAN EDWARDS 465 256 PREFAB SPROUT KEN GOUGH 70 57 SEABEDSURREALISM IANWHITE 895 157 LOTVALLEYRAIDERS BARRY WINFIELD 460 257 SAM’S HIT STEVE ROYLE 70 58 JONS BOYS ONE JOHN MYERS 890 158 WIDER CUP 4 STEVE LEDDY 455 258 RORYPLUSNINE ALAN PERCIVAL 50 59 CYRILSQUIRRELSNUTS CYRIL COOKE 890 159 GREAT DANES THOMAS CARTER 455 259 C.O.Y.B. DAVE KIDD 35 60 OLDLINKS WARRIORS 3 MARK THISTLETHWAITE 865 160 SPARDUN 4 GERARD MOORE 455 260 ANGIE’SANGELS 3 COLINJEPSON 35 61 CYRILS18TH TREE SHOT 3 STEVE O’SHAUGHNESSY 865 161 TOMMO’S TOPTEN DYLAN THOMPSON 455 261 TUBEWAYARMY KEN GOUGH 20 62 WIDER CUP1 STEVE LEDDY 860 162 GAZBUTCH’S BOYS GARETH WILLIAMS 440 262 ALWAYS OPTIMISTIC NANCYMOTTERSHEAD 0 63 ROYS CHAMPS ROYMARSH 855 163 MILLIES MARVELS TREFOR PRYTHERCH 435 263 EARLYRISERS 1 LES JONES 0 64 LORD BERWYN`S MOB GRAHAM BUTCH-DAVIES 845 164 THE CAPTAINSTRIKES BACK DAVE KIRKWOOD 430 264 HOLE IN ONE DAVE HOLLIN 0 65 MONTHLY MEDDLER D.WORSLEY 835 165 WHICH IRON DEREK OLDFIELD 430 265 PIN ANDIN DEREK OLDFIELD 0 66 PORTVETS 1 CLIVE HUGHES 825 166 WEDGEWORLD DEREK OLDFIELD 430 266 BROOKFIELDBOYS MICK BREEZE 0 67 CHAPPIES CHUMS NATHANMCASSEY 825 167 LIVINGTHE DREAM MICHAEL MOSS 425 68 SNOOKER LOOPY 2 ALAN NORWOOD 825 168 JONS BOYS TWO JOHNMYERS 425 69 FOXHOLES IANBALDWIN 820 169 NO GIMMEE`S CLIVE HUGHES 420 70 ALGY’S PICK ALAN KITE 820 170 COL’S CHANCERS COLINBURGESS 420 71 “LUKEAND HIS DISCIPLE” RUSSWILLIAMS 820 171 MULLETSBIRDIE BULLETS CHRIS HARGREAVES 415 NEW LEAGUE SEASON GETS UNDERWAY 72 WHATEVER ! JOE FILDES 820 172 PISTOL PACKERS MIKE CAMPBELL 410 73 THE WOODMEN ALBERTBELL 815 173 TARGETTING 22 PAUL UNDERWOOD 405 WELL folks, we’re off and running for what is sure to be an- 74 BIRCHWOOD HEROES ALAN KITE 810 174 WIDER CUP3 STEVE LEDDY 405 other thrilling season of golf. 75 SIGERITOE ALEX SEGAR 810 175 PRESTATYN 5 LEE GROCOTT 400 A big thank you to everyone that managed to battle 76 TINS RUS LIAM CUTHBERT 810 176 NEO’S MATES D.A.HOWARD 400 77 JOINS BOYS THREE JOHNMYERS 805 177 WILLET TO WIN IT IWAN WILLIAMS 390 through the snow to pick up their entry forms last month for 78 YOUNG GUNS +OLD CANNONS BRIAN EDWARDS 800 178 NOTIGERNO MIKE CAMPBELL 390 this 2013 campaign. 79 JEANS G.N.T. JEAN TUDOR 795 179 GATLEY GROWLERS CLIFF CLINKARD 390 80 ANGIE’SANGELS 1 COLINJEPSON 795 180 BAFFY:THEBALL SLAYERS CHARLESBRADLEY 385 Our early season leader will be a familiar name to many. 81 GROOVY GRANDMA JEAN TUDOR 795 181 UKELELE LADY ELLIE GORMLEY 385 Wirral’s Dave Bickerdyke always seems to be there or there- 82 MANNING’S MASTERS KEVINMANNING 780 182 DOWN THE MIDDLE JOHNMCNAMARA 380 abouts each year and his fast start sees him with an early 83 THREE STOOGES TOMMY COOPER 780 183 PRESTATYN 4 LEE GROCOTT 375 84 HOLGATES HUSTLERS SEAN HOLGATE 780 184 PORT VETS 4 CLIVE HUGHES 375 115-point lead over Carl Blackwell. 85 OLIVERS ARMY CATH WALSH 770 185 MOTTYS MEGAPICKS BOB MOTTERSHEAD 370 Last year’s winner, Bidston Golf Club pro Alan Norwood, is 86 BIRCHWOOD’SBEST ALAN KITE 755 186 “BACK MARKERAGAIN” CLIVE HUGHES 365 87 COLLYS MATE STEPHENDAVIES 750 187 ROYS ROVERS ROYMARSH 365 already up there again this year – currently in third spot. 88 THE JUNCTION RAIDERS BARRY WINFIELD 750 188 THE ENGLISH TREFOR PRYTHERCH 360 Good luck to you all for the season. 89 THE MOB BETHDAVIES 745 189 WALSHIES FLOGGERS STEPHENWALSH 360 90 FAIRWAY TO HEAVEN2 JOHN MAGILL 740 190 FLINT OLD BOYS 1 DAVE BEALES 355 WEEKLY UPDATES 91 THE PADDYMEN ALBERTBELL 740 191 CHIP IN CHAPS PHILIPAJONES 355 92 LUEYS 4BALL CHRIS LOMAX 725 192 MONDAY MOANERS JOHN MCNAMARA 355 If you’re not already on our list to receive weekly updates of 93 SCRATCHMASTERS MARK BROWN 720 193 GOLF ON THE SEABED IAN WHITE 350 the league tables, please e-mail [email protected] 94 DEIEDS ON TOUR DAVID WYN EDWARDS 715 194 BARTYBOYS PAUL BARTON 345 95 FLINT OLD BOYS 2 DAVE BEALES 710 195 QUAYRAIDERS CLIVE HUGHES 340 and we’ll get you added on. 96 SMUDGERS STARS DAVE SMITH 710 196 SENIOR MOMENT RON SAVORT 330 97 11 BLACK BOBTAYLOR 705 197 MASTERGEE GARETH BRADLEY 330 CONTACT US 98 SHANKALOT MATTHEW EDWARDS 705 198 TWINBOYS GC JOHNMEDHURST 325 99 BRONCOEDLEFTY STEPHEN DAVIES 700 199 WILSONS WONDERS ROBERT WILKINSON 325 Any queries, call us at the Golfers Local on 01978 449917. 100 GREGSDEN SHAUNGREGORY 690 200 NORORYINTHISONE ALAN PERCIVAL 320 Foradvertisinge-mail: [email protected] 21 GolfersLocal February 2013

T GolfersLocal February 2013 22 Send your stories to: [email protected] Ladies News

GreatyearforSally

DUKINFIELD’S SallyLester is CAPTAIN AND hoping formoreofthe same in 2013 after sweeping the boardbywinning CAPTAIN’S allthree majors at the club last year. The five-handicapper baggedthe Lady Captain’s Prize, Mr Captain’s PRESIDENT Prizeand the President’s Prizeand it is believedthat this is the first time in the club’s 100-year historythat O this has been done. Sallyhas been Dukinfield’s top TAKE CHARGE lady playerfor manyyears and was also aregular forCheshiresome BRAMHALL Golf Club’s Luci Foster BY GEOFF GARNETT years ago. and Stockport’sLis Wilsonhavebeen se- Golf is abig partofher family R with her parents, husband and sons lected as CheshireLadies captain and Lis comes from atruegolfing familyas president respectively. her grandfather and uncle were golf jour- allbeing top players. Luci has been oneBramhall’stop play- nalists and her father and mother were Shewillbelooking to defend her ers formanyyears and has also given captains at Stockportwith her mother titles in styleinthe club’s forthcom- valuable service on the ladies committee subsequentlybeing captainand president ing Centenaryseason when she will forfive of the last six years. of Cheshire. also be the captain of the Manches- N ter Past Lady Captains Society. Shehas playedfor CheshireBand sen- Lis said: “I resisted golf until Iwas 19, iors teams and was aselector forCheshire preferring to playtennis, but once I but only completed twoyears due to a started my handicap came down to six in familyillness and atemporary move back three years and Iwon selectionfor to Scotland, whereshe began her golf. Cheshire. E Luci said: “I began my golf at the age “I was partofthe Manchester and Dis- of 13 at Lenzie Golf Club,near Glasgow trict Junior Golfing SocietywhereEliza- but Iwas moreinterested in badminton, beth Chadwick(Pook)was agreat hockeyand other sports then. inspirationand Imademanygolfing “Workand family commitments pre- friends. vented me from playing until my early “One of my ambitions was to getmy R 30’swhen Ijoined Hazel Grovebefore handicap to scratchand Iachievedthis with..Ashton under Lyne lady captain Beryl Harrison moving to Bramhallin1991. twice,once beforehavingthree children Sally Lester,second left, with Dukinfield “Mybest handicap was twoand Irep- and then again10years later! captain Eddie Gerrard, lady captain Eliz- abeth Marsden and president Alex Stead. GL: Wheredoyou live? GL: Whichfootballteam do you resented CheshireBand the seniors team “I represented the countyfor more BH: IliveinAshton under Lyne support? and Ihavewon some countyevents in- than 20 years and went to six countyfi- overlooking the course itself. BH: As ateenager Iwent with my fa- cluding the Briggs Trophy at Mere. nals with Cheshire–winning twice. thertowatchboth ManchesterCity “Itisagreat honour formyself and my “I also won the County Championship McMunn’stheword GL: What do youdofor aliving? and Manchester United on alterna- club to be selected forsuchahigh office in 1975 and was runner-up on four occa- BH: Iamretired. tive weeks. Ithink Citywerealways and Iamlooking forwardtopaying back sions and won the NorthernFoursomes THE LancashireLadies County my favourites, but this was many to golf forthe years of enjoyment the with Julia Hillin1984.” GolfAssociation has installed Jane GL: Howmanyyears haveyou been a years ago. game has given me.” Lis, who was countycaptainin1991, McMunn as countycaptain for2013 member at Ashton under Lyne? Lis Wilsonisaname etched in added: “Itisagreat honourtobepresi- following the AGMatWellington BH: Ijoined Ashton in 1977 from GL: What’s your chosen charityfor Cheshireladies golf archives both forher dent of CheshireLadies and Ihope that Park Conference Centre,Leyland. Dukinfield. Forseven years Iplayed the year? ownachievements and forthe Elizabeth Iwillbeable to use my experience and Morethan 200 ladies representing at both clubs. BH: Willow Wood Hospice.It’sa WilsonScratchShield, whichisplayed knowledgetofurther develop countygolf the different golf clubs in Lan- purpose built hospice providing spe- forbyteams of lowerhandicap players of and encouragegolfers at alllevels and cashireattended the meeting. GL:What is your current handicap? cialist palliativecaretothose suffer- allaffiliated clubs to Cheshire. abilities from juniors to seniors.” Jane,amember of Lancaster Golf BH: Iplayoffahandicap of 18. ing with life-threatening illnesses. It Club,has been amember of the opened in 1999 and forin-patients LancashireLadies Executivecom- GL: What’s the lowest handicap the following September.Since then, mittee since 2008. you’veeverplayedoff? the hospice has caredfor morethan Sheretired as deputy human re- BH: The lowest I’ve ever been is 2,000 patients and their families. sources manager forLancashireFire eight. Everyone who visits Willow Wood is and Rescue Service in 2002 and was touched by the positiveambience. previouslyamember of Ashton and GL: ApartfromAshton under Lyne, Lea, in Preston. what’s your favourite other course? GL: If youhad to pickout one per- Jane said: “I am honoured to be- BH: Thereare so manymemorable sonal golfing highlight what would it come countycaptain and lookfor- courses Ihavebeen lucky enough to be? wardtocarrying out my duties with play that it’s very difficult to pickjust BH: Ihavehad so manywonderful great pride. one.StAndrews, Wentworthand and memorable experiences. Ihad a “Weenjoyed agoodyear in 2012 Gleneagles arecertainlythree that lesson on chipping from Sandy Lyle, with success forour countyteam in would be right up there. prior to him winningThe Open. One the NorthernCounties Champi- Christmas Iwas presented with a onship along with EmilyTaylor’s su- GL: What’s your favourite hole at prizebyIan Woosnam. Ialso played perbeffortsatnational leveland Ashton under Lyne? with Ian Botham at Mereduring his winning aplace on the LETalong BH: The fifth is my favourite hole.I benefit year.Mymost memorable with success forour juniors and was always able to wavetomyhus- highlight though was winning the hopefully this momentum willcarry band who would be in the garden. I Lady Captain’s prizeatDukinfield on in 2013.” nowwavetomypartner,Derek. and Ashton.

GL: Howoften do youplay? GL: If youcould play18holes in a BH: Iuse to be able to playasoften as fourballwith anyone else,who would six times aweek. NowIprobablyplay be theother three players? about three times aweek and my BH: Formanyyears Ihaveplayedin handicap reflects this. OpenCompetitions throughoutthe Greater Manchester area, whichI GL: What areyour other hobbies? love doing.Icould not enjoyplaying BH: Ilovegardening,but during the with anyone on asunnyday more past year Ihavespent so much time at than my regular fourballofMoira the club preparing forour Centenary Davies, Margaret Meeksand Barbara year. Hudson. Luci Foster is the newCheshireLadies captain. INSET: Newpresident Lis Wilson. Lancashirecaptain Jane McMunn. Send your stories to: [email protected] 23 GolfersLocal February 2013 Ladies News

Perfectstartfornew ladycaptainSonia IT’S AN HONOURFOR MARGERY

MARGERY Gardiner is delightedand BY GEOFF GARNETT honoured to be the president of the pres- Pictured (L-R) at last month tigious Manchester and District Ladies petitions on avarietyofcourses and over are: AngelaHewitt (lady vice-captain), Golf Associationfor 2013. theyears havewon various trophies and Amanda Hughes (junior captain) and Sonia Sales (lady captain). Margeryisafarmer’s daughter who prizes,but my greatest achievement was married into agolfing familyand joined to win the MDLGA ChallengeBowlin AWELCOME changeinthe Greenmount Golf Club in 1985 after the 2010.” weather greeted newladycaptain birth of her thirdchild and has enjoyeda Margery, who first servedonthe Sonia Sales’sDrive-In at Vale Of great involvement with the game since MDLGA committee forone year in Llangollen early last month when then. 2005, added: “I was then asked to be the Sonia hadtwo reasons to celebrate. Margerysaid: “I enjoyedplaying golf treasurer,apost Iheld until 2012, and NewMDLGA president MargeryGardiner. Following speeches in the club- much morethan Iexpected and soonbe- then received the ultimate accolade of house the newladycaptain and her came involved in the ladies sectionofthe being put forwardtobethe president. “Myaim this year is to promote allof hardworking group theyare,but also fun- lady vice-captain, Angela Hewitt club. “TheMDLGA is the biggest organi- our events and at the AGMIhad allof loving and friendly and Iknowthat Ican and junior captain, Amanda “I servedinavarietyofroles including sationofits kind forladies in England the trophies on displayand gaveabrief rely on their supportand expertise.” Hughes, were inaugurated into of- lady captain in 1993and lady president in withthe best partof90clubsbeing in- historyofeachone. MDLGA dates for2013: May31 fice for2013. 2010-2011 and, as aconsequence of volved in arangeofcompetitions each “Theoldest trophy is the beautiful Team event forfour players at Blackburn; Traditionallythe ladies compete changes brought on by equalitylegisla- year and has been in operationfor well ChallengeBowl, whichdates back to June 7BuntyBooth Final at Sale; July5 forthe Millennium Shield on tion, Iwas voted on to the club council over 100 years. 1902 and anewspaper cutting of the first ChallengeBowland Lloyd Jones Scratch Drive-In dayand to make Sonia’s forthree years and Iknowthat the club “Everyonethinks of the BellCup competitionstated that it was playedin Trophy at Northenden; August 9Team dayperfect, she ended up winning willgivemefullsupportinmyMDLGA when youmentionMDLGA but we or- “drenching rain, wind and hail” –not event forThreeplayers at HindleyHall; the mainevent with 36 points before role in 2013. ganise various competitions throughout much has changed in 110 years! September 6BellCup finals Dayat graciouslygiving her prizetothe “I am only an averagegolfer but enjoy the year and haveseveral beautiful tro- “Having been involved with the com- Greenmount; September9Greensome at runner up! playing competitivegolf and open com- phies. mittee forseven years Iknowwhat a Ringway.

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TheOpenGolfClub

Knowyourrules with... hits100markamid YOUR CHANCE expansionplans

THE Open Golf Club,which PETER launched last summer and allows golfers without officialclub handi- TO PLAY caps to take partinregular competi- TURNER tions, has passed the 100 member mark. Woolton Golf Club’s PGA pro- OurShropshire-based English Golf Union referee fessional DaveThompson ranthe WIRRAL FOUR first of severalevents at the Liver- with his latest rules questions to test your knowledge. pool-based club last Julyand this THIS September club golfers havethe onship; and Heswall, venueofTheR&A’s month, following ashortwinter chance to playthe course set up forthe Junior Championships. break, it restarts with moreregular Question 1: a. Colin wins the hole with afive Open Championship at Royal Liverpool The entryfee is £229 (if booked before events right across the region in- Bill’sballcame to rest in ahole made b. Ken wins the hole as Colin gave him the following summer. April30) and includes the opportunity to cluding the conclusion of the winter by aburrowing animal. He correctly advice and breached Rule 8-1 The Wirral Golf Classic, a72-hole win morethan £3,000 worthofprizes pair’s and singles knockout compe- calculated his nearest point of relief c.The hole is halved Open Stablefordcompetition, is open to from Titleist as well as twosocial events. titions. and dropped aballwithin one club golfers of allabilities, male and female, Started only three years ago, the event “I willalso be running the first length of that point. When the ball Question 4: and willbeplayedatthe famous Hoylake has attracted morethan 200 golfers from order of merit from April across 10 came to rest it was within twoclub David takes his second strokeonthe club and three other fine links courses on the UK and abroad, and has enjoyedhuge courses in the area,”explained Dave, lengths of the place whereitfirst thirdhole and the ballcomes to rest a September 23-27, with allgolfers enjoy- success with 100% satisfactionrates in the son of former Heswallpro Alan touched the ground when dropped, fewinches out of bounds. He plays a ing onerest dayduring the week. both 2011 and 2012 from competitors. Thompson. and not nearer the hole.However the provisional ball. When he goes for- The three other links areCaldy,a Flyers willbeen sent to golf clubs this “Thetop 20 players at the end of hole made by the burrowing animal is wardhefinds his original balllying Qualifying venue forthe 2012 Ricoh month and further informationabout the the season willqualifyfor the Grand nowsituated between Bill’sfeet and out of bounds and puts it in his pocket. Women’s Open; Wallasey, Final Qualify- event canbefound at the website: Final to be playedinOctober.The the ball.The hole made by the burrow- He continues the playofthe hole with ing venue forthe 2014 Open Champi- www.wirralgolfclassic.co.uk. winner willbecrowned “TheOpen ing animal does not interfere with his his provisional ball, and, when he gets Golf Club Champion 2013”. Hope- stance,the lie of the ball, or his line of to the green, marks the position of the fully the first of many. swing or play. The ballisnow in play provisional balland puts it in his “I also nowhaveanagreement andhemust playthe ballasitlies or pocket while he waits to take his turn with fiveManchester courses with a declareitunplayable.TrueorFalse? putting.When it is his turn he takes a viewtostartingTOGC Manchester ballfromhis pocket and putts out fora from April too.Thecourses signed Question 2: seven, whichincludes the penaltyfor up so far are: Hazel Grove, Turton, At anytime,aplayermay,under hitting aballout of bounds. Beforehe Didsbury, Prestwichand Wigan. I’m penaltyofone stroke, playaballas plays his tee shot from the fourth tee hoping to addacouple morebefore nearly as possible at the spot from he realises thathecompletedthe third the weeklycompetitions start,” whichhis original ballwas last played. holewith his original balland not the added Dave. True or False? provisional ball. What is the correct Anyone wishing to compete in ei- procedure? ther area willnot need aCONGU Question 3: handicap as aTOGChandicap can Ken and Colin areplaying amatch. a. He must return to the thirdgreen be acquired and used to compete, Colin holes out forafive on the fourth and putt out with the provisional ball, however, allevents areopen to all and Ken is leftwith atrickyputt fora adding atwo strokepenalty golfers, so club members canuse half.BeforeKen takes his putt Colin b. The scorewith the ballputted out their official handicap and compete tells Ken thatheneeds to allowfor a stands but he must addatwo stroke as well. lot of borrowfromthe right. Ken picks Subscription to the scheme is still up his balland claims the hole as c.The scorewith the ballDavid putted free of chargeand people canregis- Colin has givenhim unsolicited ad- out with stands without additional ter in minutes on the website at vice.What is the result of the hole? penalty www.theopengolfclub.co.uk. The events areall open to any

Answersbelow golfer,male or female,overthe age

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ue Tr 1. ion opt an is this that et rg fo en ft so er ay pl Be an Early Bird special winter membership 8am-10ammidweek (exc Bank Hols) -2ball £14 (save£4) now available -3ball £19.50 (save£7.50) -4ball £24 (save£12) junior membership Haveyou got arules query you’d likeustoclarify?Ifso, e-mail free for the first 12 months your question to [email protected] we’ll provide CALL 01244 579282 www.darlandgolf.co.uk for details call the secretaryon adefinitive answer foryou. ChesterRoad, Lavister, Rossett LL12 0DF 0151 677 5852 Foradvertisinge-mail: [email protected] 25 GolfersLocal February 2013 PENNANT PARK GOLFCLUB

FUNCTION WIN AGOLFHOLIDAY SOCIETY IN PORTUGAL!!! ROOM Available for PACKAGES2013 All societies of 12 or more who book Option 1 corporate events, or Option 2ofour 2013 Summer Deals weddings, parties SummerDeals will be entered into afree prize draw christenings, etc to win agolf holiday for four to Portugal. Option1 Coffee&bacon roll 2nd prize –free Option 1for your society 18 holes+2-course meal (same numbers as original booking). £30 £34 3rd prize –two complimemtary fourballs, Mon-Fri –Weekend includingbuggies. Option2 4th prize –acomplimentary fourball, including buggies. 9holes of golf Soup &sandwiches The prize draw will take place on 18 holes+2-course meal Saturday 31st August, 2013. Mon-Fri £37 –Weekend £41

When you visit on your society golf day you will be offered the opportunity to enter our WINTER society team of 4competition on FOURBALL MIDWEEK BUGGY SPECIAL WARMERS 2012/13 Saturday, 31st August, 2013. • Fourball • 2 buggies • 18 holes of golf • £60 Available until 31st March, 2013 Entries are £80 per team, which consists (Available until 31st March, 2013) Coffee &Bacon toastie, 18 holes of 18 holes and ameal. WINTER GREEN FEES &aone-coursemeal Prizes for winning teams. • Weekdays - 2 play for £25 Mon-Fri £20 –Weekend £25 For all bookings, call 01745 563000 • Weekends - 2 play for £35 Pennant Park Golf Club, Whitford, Holywell, Flintshire CH8 9AE CALL US ON 01745 563000 Follow us on Facebook Directions: Take junction 32 for Holywell off the A55, then follow • E-mail: [email protected] • Website: www.pennant-park.co.uk the signposts to the club. PENNANT PARK HOLIDAYHOMES &GOLFCOURSE Offeringholiday homeownershiponour luxury, exclusive development Do you fancy owning your own holiday home overlooking abeautiful golf course in North Wales? New BEAT Pennant Park is currently offering ex- Pennant Lodges clusive holiday home ownership in stun- availablenow fromjust THEVAT ning surroundings. BuybeforeApril, 2013 The wonderfully appointed lodges will £89,950 and don’tpay the5% That’s 35% offthe delight those searchingfor a‘stressfree’ VATthat is being lifestylewhilst enjoyingsome of North original price!!! Wales’ spectacular countryside. Pen- introduced nant Park Golf Club boasts asuperb 18- hole course with quality greens. The clubhouse also has great facilities including apro shop, restaurant and multi-purpose function room. It enjoys a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The exclusive development has alim- ited number of 15 luxury lodges and comes ready to move into, making it even easier to upgrade to your deserved lifestyle. The best way to really appreciate the lodges and all the other fantastic facili- ties is to come and have alook and ex- perience that ‘Wow Factor’ at first hand.

For more details, call 01745 563000 (day time) FULL 12-MONTHHOLIDAYLICENCE or 01745 852332 (evenings). Website: www.pennant-park.co.uk E-mail: [email protected] GolfersLocal February 2013 26 Send your stories to: [email protected] Local News

Flintshireassociation revealsnewofficers

PGA CHIEF THE FlintshireGolf Captains’ & Past Captains’ Association held it’s AGMatFlint Golf Club last month when the officers for2013 were an- nounced. BRINGSTHE Sixtyeight members were present to see Prestatyn’s Graham Newell ap- pointed as president, Flint’s Terry Roberts as captain, Mold’s Roy Fisher as his vice-captain, Bert RYDER CUPTO Moore, from Holywell, as secretary, Kevin Carney, also from Holywell, is the treasurer and Rhuddlan’s Glyn Lewis is matchsecretary. TerryReynolds was elected as MOSSOCK honorarylifemember of the associa- tion in recognition of his 26 years MOSSOCK Hallmembers were able to BY PAUL CHAPPLE service as adelegate forHawarden gettheir hands on oneofsport’smost Golf Club,apost from whichhehas prestigious trophy’s when the PGA’s chief “Hehad aloadofhumourous anec- nowretired. executivecalled in to visit last month. dotes and factual stories,”Mossock’sgen- The association has eight events Sandy Jones, who heads up the Ryder eral manager Mel Brooke said. planned forthe year as well as three Cup selectionteam andisanadvisor to “Weall nowknowthe real reasonwhy Inter-Countymatches against the committee whichselectthe courses Rorywas late on the tee last September Shropshire&Hereford(Old forthe Ryder Cup venue,was at the Lan- and Sandy gaveinteresting insights into Mossock Hall president AnnDempseywith vice-president John Stoddern and the Ryder Cup. Padeswood), Denbighshire cashireclub to entertain MossockHall locker room antics and howeachRyder () and Eryri(Nefyn). members with an array of storiescovering Cup captain hadcoped with the role.” MossockHallpresident and event or- “What agreat night it was. Everyone The three-dayAnnual Breakaway manycompetitions and golfers, from Members tookpartinaQ&A session ganiser,Ann Dempsey, added: “Itwas a has thoroughlyenjoyedthemselvesand willsee areturntoHerefordplaying Arnold Palmer through to Seve,Tiger and hadthe opportunitytohavetheir great honour to havesuchaleadingfigure forgolfers, it doesn’t come better than at Belmont Lodge, Ross-on-Wye Woods and RoryMcIlroy. photo taken with the famous cup. in the golf worldvisit our club. that.” and Oswestry in April. BECOME FIRST WELSH CLUB TO WIN INSPORTRIBBON AWARD

WELSHPOOL has become the first The InsportRibbonAwardfromDis- While the changes made to the golf the most inaccessible clubs around.We’re as available as possible foreveryone. Welsh golf club to claim atop award abilitySportWales recognised the com- course and the facilities havealso made a on the top of amountain, so if we cando “Wehavefences round the greens be- recognising their inclusivity, whichhas mitment forproviding opportunities for great difference right across the club,par- it then anyclub in Wales canalso reap the cause of the sheep so we haveadded gates, also hadapositiveimpact on allareas of disabled people,whichhas produced a ticularly in encouraging its senior mem- rewards. we haveimproved the buggypaths and the club. British championinFrankie Jones. bers. “Itisjust about providing opportuni- added morebuggies as well as other fa- Welshpool junior organiser Ellen ties forpeople to playgolf,when the cilities, allofwhichhas also made abig Jones, the mother of Frankie and oneof EqualityAct came out it made the com- difference to the senior section. the keydrivers behind the changes, was mittee sit up and think about changes “Both my boys playatthe club and it delighted the club hadbeen recognised. that we needed to make around the has made them feel so welcome,Ihave MALKINS BANK GOLF CLUB “Weare really pleased to getthis award course. neverreally seen it as aprovisionfor the Betchton Road, Malkins Bank, Sandbach, CheshireCW114XN and especially to be the first golf club in “Wealso haveanamputee playing and disabled but as something to make the www.malkinsbankgolfclub.co.uk Wales to receiveit,”she said. doing really well,deaf,peoplewith club inclusive. It was not until we made “On the face of it Welshpool is oneof autism, so it is allabout making the game the changes that we thought of the wider benefits.” The policyisalso bringing success to Welshpool in terms of the competition results at national level. Frankie Jones,who has cerebral palsy, SOCIETY PACKAGES2013 is the British champion, while brother Package Description Priceppfrom Benfinished sixth, but theyare not the only golfers with disabilitytocome Bronze Coffee,bacon roll, 18 holes £14.00 through the club. Coffee, bacon roll, “Our amputee would neverhave Silver £19.00 18 holes, 1-course meal thought aboutplaying golf but because of the work we do in schools he thought of Coffee, bacon roll, Gold £21.00 giving it ago, after all–what is holding 18 holes, 2-course meal youback?” asked Jones. Coffee, Full English breakfast, “I havebeen to the British Disabled Platinum £23.50 18 holes, 2-course meal Championships forthe last twoyears, thereare people with thalidomide,orone £3 weekend supplement WINTERSOCIETYPACKAGE arm, playing golf and the standardisin- Panoramic VillasGolfTournament credible. Friday, 31st May, 2013 @Malkins Bank GC “Frankie has been the championfor 18 holes of golf &atwo-coursemeal the last twoyears.Thefirst onehewon 1st Prize –Holiday to Morocco 2nd Prize –Holiday to Spain Choices include roastchicken dinner, ONLY 3rd Prize was on the last green, but last year he won –Fourball at Macdonald Hill Valley curryorsteakpie Entry fee just £56 per team of 4(including coffee &bacon sandwich) £20pp by sevenshots at the East Sussex course To register or for more details, e-mail [email protected] near Eastbourne.” Upgrade to include all these extras: Welshpool arenow aiming to get unlimited tea and coffee on arrival, ONLY Twilight Golf OnlineShop British recognitionfor their work as they Stay&Play bacon roll, biscuits and toast Great discounted deals £8.50 after 12.30pm Visit our online golf £25pp move onto the next stage. available with shop with all the very Minimum nine people.Non-refundable deposit required to secure booking. With golf becoming partofthe Ramada Encore, Crewe. Buggy Hire latest equipment. Available Monday -Friday.OnSaturdays add an extra £2 to above prices. Olympics at Rio in 2016, thereare also Visit our website for details Fleet of buggies for hire Call for best price Winter Society Package available until 1st March, 2013. plans that golf couldbeincludedinthe Paralympics in 2020 and beyond, so the For further information, call 01270 765931 e-mail Antrobus Golf Club, Foggs Lane, Antrobus, Cheshire CW9 6JQ work beingdoneinWelshpool could see [email protected] Tel: 01925 730890 (office) 01925 730900 (pro shop) some of their golfers ending up on the www.antrobusgolfclub.co.uk worldstage. Send your stories to: [email protected] 27 GolfersLocal February 2013 Local News

FREE COURSE Greenside with... MIKE MANAGEMENT DAVIE SYSTEM LAUNCHED Last month all our courses were hit by snow, some worse than others. OurHazel Groveheadgreen AFREE and easy to use online system reports forthe use of managers and secre- England Golf,whichhas supported keeper this month outlines the issues this cancreate. that helps golf courses managethem- taries and canbeused to keep committees CourseTracker,said: “CourseTracker is an selvesmoresustainablyand efficientlyhas informed and to aid decisionmaking. excellent newresource forgolf clubs, AS Iwrite this latest column in late retribution forsome reason and this is been launched by The R&A. The system has been extensivelytested whichcan really help them getagripon JanuaryIlookout over agolf course not always understood by the golfing CourseTracker was unveiled last with managers, secretaries and industry their expenditureoncourse mainte- that is coveredineight centimetresof public. month at the British and International bodies and their feedback has been used nance.” snow. Last year was one of the wettest on Golf Greenkeepers’ AssociationTurf to develop and refine its rangeoffunc- He added: “Itissoimportant to man- Notreally what the doctor ordered recordand the continuation of bad Management ExhibitioninHarrogate. tions. It is endorsed by England Golf and agegolf courses sustainablyboth to pro- but at least it givesthe course arest due weather mayinfactimpede on the It is designed forgolf course managers the golfing unions of Ireland, Scotland tect the environment and reduce costs. to the lack of golfers trudging round. condition of courses as the damageleft and club secretaries to recordthe income and Wales. “This is aquick, easy to use system, Thereare acouple of benefits that behind maytake alittle while longer to derived from the course and what is spent SteveIsaac, director –Golf Course whichcan deliver accurate and useful the snowdoes to the golf course,one is recover. on its maintenance. Management at The R&A, said: “Thereis management informationfor golf clubs. the above giving it arest and another Therehas been an increased number The secure system allows clubs to mon- morepressurethan ever on golf clubs to We willcertainlyberecommending is the fact that it makes my at Hazel of cases of fungal diseases this winter, itor their performance over time and make the right decisions to manage CourseTracker to courses we work with Grovecourse lookasgood as any especially fusarium as although the identifystrengths, weaknesses and areas courses sustainably, efficiently and cost ef- in England.” course in the worldinthe same condi- winter has been wet; it has, until the wheresavings could be made in terms of fectively. CourseTracker canhelp them Golf clubs need only spend afew min- tions! last month, been quite mild. energyand water,for example. do that through recording,monitoring utes registeringbeforeusingthe system. As repeatedly stated last year,the This has created the ideal conditions CourseTracker also enables clubs to and reporting their activities and inputs. It is simple to use and thereare fullonline weatherhas been unkindfor what feels forfungitoattack the grass plants and anonymouslybenchmarktheir perform- This is an area wheremanyclubs struggle tutorials available forguidance. like an eternityand so far this winter in some cases causing scarring.Unfor- ance against that of other clubs of asim- due to lack of time and resources.” CourseTracker canbeaccessed online has not really improved the situation. tunatelythe continual rain and fre- ilar size. It produces accurate performance Paul Keeling,club services manager at at www.coursetracker.org. The ice and snowconditions arewhat quent wind made conditions one wouldexpect to experience forthis impossible to applyproducts that may time of year,but the persistent rain help to controlthe diseases, this in prior caused further problems out on turn also is areason forthe promi- the course. nence of the disease. The water table is very high with The increase of use of greens during much of the land already at soil capac- the winter months canalso increase itylevels, whichmay cause aknockon the risk of disease. effect forthe early partofthe season. This is because the grass plant is Many green keepershaveembarked under greater stress and on occasions on ambitious winter programmesin- the grass leaf damaged by the traffic, volving manydifferent construction whichinturnallowsinfection of the programmes and drainageprojectsand grass plant. this type of work canoften getdelayed Howeverthereisanunderstanding if the ground conditions arenot suit- and appreciation by the green keeper able formachinerytotraveland work. that the golfing public’s wish is to play This in turn puts the ground staff on the greens as frequentlyaspossible, team under pressuretocomplete all howeveritisnot always possible to work prior to the period of time when grant this request. the preparation of the course forcom- Allgreen keepers arehoping foran petition playisrequired. improved turnaround of the weather Allgreen keepers endeavor to com- because if the spring is not as friendly plete theirwinter tasks in good time so as we hope fortherecould be adelayin as to enable the spring work to com- the qualityofthe putting surfaces but mence.Ithas at timesfelt thatMother this willrectify as soon as the weather Nature has been handing out some and ground conditions dictate.

SteveIsaac, left, with Kevin Weir (Golf Services manager,SGU), Paul Keeling and Phillip Russell (manager -GolfCourse Affairs,The R&A). Photocourtesy of The R&A. GET YOUR COPY OF NEW WELSH GOLF GUIDE

YOUcan nowget your hands on the his early days at Llanymynechhad on courses, along with tips from club pros brand-newWales Golf guide from his professional career.Colin Mont- on howtoplaysome of the country’s Visit Wales. gomerie re-lives Europe’s historic 2010 most challenging holes. The free magazine-stylepublication Ryder Cup victoryatCeltic Manor Re- There’salso acomprehensivelisting is packed with information on Welsh sortand operastar –and keen amateur of almost180 clubsthroughout Wales, golf,along witharangeoffeatures that golfer –BrynTerfelexplains why he with course details, locations and showwhy playing is such lovesplaying in his homeland. much more. agreat experience. The magazine also contains insights The newguide canbeviewedbyvis- reflects on the impact into aselection of Wales’smost iconic iting the Visit Wales website. GolfersLocal February 2013 28 Send your stories to: [email protected] CharityNews

Marathon men

AFOURBALLofBaron HillGolf Club members played72holes of SCROUNGERS golf in one daybackinJulyand last month theypresented the chequefor £1,171.50 to Macmillan Cancer Care. The Angleseyclub’s fab four of MAKE IT 169 Ron Owens, TerryCrone,Gareth THE Scroungers Golf Societyteamed up BY GEOFF GARNETT Jones and Derek Rowlands started again withChorltonGolf Club to raise at 5.30am and finished at 6pm. morethan £3,000 to buy apowered collegeshe is involved in drama and art Theyweresupported by members scooter to help changethe lifeofase- as well as being astaunchManchester of the club providing refreshments verely disabled youngster. United fan. alongthe way. The moneyraised will Theydefied poor weather to enjoya Scroungerscaptain LenO’Hagan said: be used by Macmillan in the local great dayonthe Chorltoncourse and “Itwas another great dayfor the community. then set about raising funds withdona- Scroungers and our thanks go to Chorl- tions, fines etc at the après golf dinner be- tonfor again being very generous hosts fore enjoying seeing the 169th scooter and giving terrific support. theyhaveraised moneytobuy being pre- “Therehavenever been morethan 24 sented. members of the Scroungers over the 20 The recipient was 12-year-old Katie plus years we havebeen playing and rais- Gaskell, from Salford, who attends Oak- ing moneyand this nowtotals over half a wood College, in Eccles. millionpounds- afantastic amount. Katie suffers from cerebral palsy and “Our members come from arangeof bulber palsy,whichinhibits her speech clubs suchasSaddleworth,Blackley, Old- but she made agreat efforttothank the ham and Chorltonand it is great to see Baron Hill captain John Williams presents Scroungers and Chorltonofficers. thehardworktheyhaveput in givesuch the cheque to Macmillan’s Glenys Sullivan with Ron Owens,TerryCrone and Gareth Her hobbies arewheelchair dancing pleasureand lifeimprovement to young- Jones looking on. and latterly wheelchair footballand at sters suchasKatie.” KatieGaskell receives herscooter from Scroungersand Chorlton officials. Denbighdonateto DAVYHULME DONATION localhospicecause

THE joint efforts of the club captain, throughout the year and also aspecial DENIGH Golf Club’s former lady lady captain and members at Davy- charityweekend stagedbythe captain, captain, June Howatson, has pre- hulme Park Golf Club saw amagnifi- Derrick Page,and his charitycommit- sented acharitycheque to St cent sum of nearly £8,000 added to the tee. KentigernHospice. coffers forParkinson’s UK, Trafford Davyhulme’s lady captain, LynNi- Hospice fundraising manager Branch. land, added to the funds with lunches, Jackie Jefferyand business manager Pictured (L-R) are: NoelKelly (president), NormaAshton (Parkinson’s UK), Neil Bradburn(ex The moneywas raised by the mem- bridgedrives, afternoon teasand many JoyceBellingham received £2,663 captain), LynNiland,Malcolm Etty(treasurer), Derrick Page and RodAlcock (Parkinson’s UK). bers of the Manchester-based club raffles. from her fundraising events as lady captain last year. Jackie said: “Joyce and Ishowed June round the hospice and ex- plained what we do here. June was RON PRESENTSCHEQUES delighted to havethe opportunityto have alookround and see forherself AT THEIR Presentation Evening held uals who hadcontributed to the cam- what acharming place it is.” last month, Mile End Golf Club vice- paign. captain, RonPugh,presented cheques Atotal of £7,580 was raised during to representatives from Hope House the year and this was shared equally be- Children’s Hospice and Marie Curie tween the twocharities. Morethan 120 Cancer Care. members and friends attended the It is traditionally the role of the evening,whichsaw morethan 100 tro- Shropshireclub’s vice-captain to co-or- phies being presented to club members dinate fund raising activityand in 2012 who hadsuccess in the competitions that task fell to Ron. held by the club during the year. He thanked BarclaysBank, the prin- StuartRussell, club captain during cipal sponsor during the year,and then 2012, thanked everyone who hadhelped Former Denbigh Golf Club lady captain the manylocal businessesand individ- to make the evening asuccess. June Howatson, left, with St Kentigern Hospice’sJackie Jeffery,centre,and Joyce Bellingham.

Strokesupport

MARKETDrayton Golf Club’s out-going lady captain, Jackie Rushgrove,chose the Stroke Association as hercharityduring 2012. Club membersraised £1,420 during the year and Jackie is pictured presenting Pictured (L-R) at Mile End last month are: Samantha Tierney(Barclays Bank), Paul Coope the cheque to Gurdev Bal,fromthe Stroke (HopeHouse), Judy Breeze (Marie Curie) and vice-captain Ron Pugh. Association. GolfersLocal February 2013 29 Send your stories to: [email protected] CharityNews

PuppyloveatHenlle

HENLLE Park’s 2012 captains got CHALLENGE morethan theybargained forwhen theysmashed their fundraising target enabling them to buy not one,but twopuppies forTheGuide Dogs for the Blind Association. SET TO HELP Former lady captain, Sara Mee- han, explained:“Wewanted to name one puppycosting £5,000 by fundraising over the year with raffles, asponsored walk, golf competitions, aMerseyside Entertainers Golf Day OUR HEROES and aCharityBall, plus other events and donations. THE GolfersLocal is backing the Help BY PAUL CHAPPLE “But the kind supportfrommem- forHeroes charityinits bid to getthe re- bers and the local communitymeant gion’s golf clubs to sign up and playtheir 1,000 of them involved,”explained Last year’s men’s champions from The PlayersClub,Bristol, and event organisers with the trophy we actually raised morethan £9,000, partinthe UK’s largest amateur charity Stacey. after their win at Turnberry. whichwas enough moneytoname golf tournament –the VolvoNational “If1,000 of them each raise £1,000 twopuppies. Golf Club Challenge. then that’s £1million, whichisour target,” aRegional Semi-Final at Marriott not-buyitems up forgrabs each month “Thefirst puppywas bornlast Oc- Bolton-based eventdirector Stacey Jef- he added. Hollins Hall, in West Yorkshire. until November.Last month’s included a tober and we’venamed him Henlle. fries has invited clubs to join theeffort to The aim is to bring thousands of Sixtyplayers willthen make it through round of golf with Australian cricket ace “We’re alllooking forwardtoshar- supportour injured troops through the golfers together on their owncourse fora to compete at the National Final to be Shane Warne, whichwent for£4,500. ingthe beginnings of his transforma- event that has aNational Final at Turn- Stablefordevent in May, June or July. The playedatthe magnificent TurnberryRe- To register your club forthe 2013 tion into aresponsible Guide Dog.” berryand aWorld Final in South Africa. top fivemen’s scores and top fiveladies sortonScotland’s West Coast. VolvoNational Golf Club Challenge, “Thereare morethan 3,000 golf clubs scores arethen to be submitted andthe The charityisalso running amonthly visit www.volvongcc.co.uk. Forthe online across Britain and we want to getatleast best aggregate scores willwin through to online auction with fivenew money-can- auction, visit www.ngccauction.com. BREWERYSHOWCHAIR CARE

THE owners of Frodsham Brewery, festival and theirwishisalwaystosup- Barrieand Hazel Davidson, havepre- portalocal charitywith the emphasis sentedacheque for£400 to the Pow- being on children. ered Wheelchair Appeal at Helsby In previous years, Barrieand Hazel Golf Club. havedonated their shareofthe funds The Appeal raises funds to provide to KingsleyGuides, HelsbyUnder 9’s At Henlle Park with labrador Woodyare poweredwheelchairs to deserving FootballTeam, Frodsham &Halton 2012 lady captain Sara Meehan, and 2012 local children with special needs. Harriers Under 14’sand Halton Age captain PeterKanes, Lin Stapley (The Each year in July, the West Cheshire Concern. In 2012 their chosen charity Pictured (L-R) at Helsbyare Barry and HazelDavidson (Frodsham Brewery)with Helsby Guide Dogs forthe Blind Association) and Golf Club PoweredWheelchair Appeal’s Bert Dyson, Penny Ainsworth and Alan Lee. Henlle president and ownerRalphTomley. Breweries CharityBeer Festival is was HelsbyGolf Club –Powered hosted by the Spitting Feathers Brew- Wheelchair Appeal. ery, in Waverton, Chester.Thebeer is The Appeal has been raising funds provided by allthe brewers in West forlocal children with special needs Cheshirewho specialise in real ale.As forthe last 30 years. In June,theypre- well as the beer,thereisgood food and sented their 300thpowered wheelchair entertainment and allthe profits from at their 30th Wheelchair Classic. the festivalare distributed to thebrew- As well as the golf tournament, they eries who take parttobedonated to a hold other fundraising events charityoftheir choice. throughoutthe year and presentedtwo Adelightful par72course nestled in the heart of the Ribble Valley Frodsham Brewery, whichissitu- morechairs at their annualBlack & ated at the Lady HeyesCraft Centre, White Evening bringing the total WINTER WARMER SUNDAY NIGHTER is one of the main participants at the number of chairs presented to 307. AVAILABLE UNTIL 28/02/13 TWOROUNDS OF GOLF,DINNER, TWO-BALL (18 HOLES) WITH BUGGY,INC. BED &BREAKFAST BACON ROLL &COFFEE ON ARRIVAL ONLY£79.00 TEAM EFFORTATEATON ONLY£40.00 per two-ball supplement of £20 for single occupancy

LAST year’s EatonGolf Club captain, that suchalargetotal amount as £6,350 Ian Russelland lady captain, Janet hadbeen raised as both charities arevery Robinsonhavehanded over £11,000 to personal to me as friends and relatives SOCIETY their chosen charities. havesuffered from these diseases.” PACKAGES The pair were delighted at the amount Ian presented achequefor £5,058 to raised and Ian said: “Wewould like to the Hospice of the Good Shepherdchair- NOWAVAILABLE thank allthe members and staff of Eaton man Maureen Hastings and to Sheila FROM JUST £20.00 forgiving so generouslyoftheir time and John, of the Christletonand Waverton (min 8players) BUGGIES efforts to supportour charities.” Hospice SupportGroup. AVAILABLE Lady captain Janet presented cheques He said: “I was very pleased to be ALL-YEAR-ROUND of £3,175 to Ruth Owen, of ArthritisRe- handing over suchalargeamount to the search,and to Joanne Dobbie,from hospice to be usedfor thecareoflocal pa- Parkinson UK. Shesaid: “I was thrilled tients and their families.” Bookings can be made by contacting the golf shop on 01254 245392 or e-mail: [email protected]

Eaton’s former captains IanRussell and Janet Robinson with the charityrepresentatives. GolfersLocal February 2013 30 Send your stories to: [email protected] Local News

Brightstartfornew MTGScaptain HISTORYINTHE MANCHESTERTeachers’ Golf Societywillenjoyits 76th year with a proven captain at the helm. Alan Genter signed off as captain then joined forces with his successor MAKING AS WIRRAL Roger Arnolltoenjoyaround at Stockport. John Hughes will be Wirral Ladies’ first male Both of them playedcricket to- captain in March. gether at AshleyCCwhereRoger hadasuperbcareer as the best-ever LADIES SELECTJOHN batsman in the 125-years of the CheshireVillageclub. WIRRAL Ladies’Golf Club has reached and consequentlytheyhavebeen able to scribe the course is as ashort, but chal- Averypowerful left-hander, asignificant milestone in its long history. serve on allcommittees. lenging onethat requires accuracyin Roger wreaked havoc foryears on Since the club’s inauguration in 1894 Morerecent equalitychanges haveal- order to scorewell. manytop bowlers in the countyand the club captain has always been alady– lowedmen to stand forelectionaschair- “Nevertheless, it is an idealcourse upon also represented the Cheshire but not anymore. In order to comply man of various committees and three whichboth established golfers and new- Cricket League on manyoccasions with the 2010 EqualityAct, and after years agothe first male chairman of the comers candevelop their skills.” and he also enjoyed severalyears as lengthyconsultationwith the member- management committee was appointed. In 2012 the club became the first on asuccessful club captain. ship,the Prenton-based club hasvotedto Club manager,Peter Greville,ex- the Wirral to achieve the Golf Markac- The Didsburymember’s power, fi- appoint jointcaptains, oneofeachgender, plained: “Wirral Ladies’ has been agen- creditationand Cheshire Countydevel- nesse and competitiveedgehelped for2013 and subsequent years. uine mixed gender golf club formany opment officer,Craig Thomas, said: Janet Mills will join John in office. him to achieve asingle-figurehand- The twocaptains elect who willbe years with both menand women enjoying “Wirral Ladies is awellestablished club icap. confirmed in office at the next AGMin equal access to the course. whichhas already worked hardtointro- agethe next generationofgolfers.” At StockportRoger and Alan March areJohnHughes and Janet Mills. “Theclub continues to promote itself duce people of allagestogolf. Peter added: “Themembers arevery posted awinning 45 points to finish The 1894 articles of associationofthe as afriendlyclub providingopportunities “TheGolfMarkachievement nowal- mindful of the great traditions of Wirral aheadofGarry Singh and Andy club dictated that committee members forgolfers of allagesand abilities. lows the club to build on that success. It Ladies’ Golf Club but this historical Rudkin (44) and GaryConroy and should be allfemale and that structurere- “Our delightful,heathland course has is good to see suchalongstanding organ- changetoappoint joint male and female MarkAttwell (42). mained in place until the late 1990’s. been independentlyportrayed as “a hid- isation taking aproactiveapproach to the club captains further demonstrates the Roger said: “I haveenjoyedplay- Male members were then given the vote dengolfing gem” and the best waytode- future and laying down plans to encour- club’s abilitytoadapt and move forward.” ing with the MTGS formorethan 20 years and am nowlooking for- wardtoanother highlyenjoyable OLDHAM GEMS PUT ON THE STYLE TO STAY COMPETITIVE year as the societycaptain.”

Roger Arnoll,left, MTGS president Roger Jackson, centre,and Alan Genter. BertretiresatPortal

FancyHat winnerPeter Schofield,pictured on the right of the group. PORTALPremierGolfClub’s Bert Platt THE seniors of Oldham Golf Club BY GEOFF GARNETT Hat’competition that traditionally runs When the competition was finally retiredfromthe post as president last month after 14 years dedicated service to found an alternativeway to keep their alongside the event. replayed, the wearing of the hat was the club.Heispictured abovewith past competitiveedgewhen their annual The hardy group,known fondly as the After much careful deliberation, stillcompulsoryintheTexas Scramble and current captains after being presented CommemorativeCup fell foul to the GEMS (Gentlemen Elderly Members), Peter Schofield, who wore aChristmas event, whichwas wonbyPeter Ben- with acrystal and vase from the membership.MorrisLegge will succeed recent poor weather. decided to continue with the ‘Fancy pudding hat, was declared the winner. nion and DavePrice with anett 38. him as president.

COME AND PLAY OUR MULTI AWARD Want to WINNING COURSE playgolf? Text 12GOLF to 88802 Winner of Club Mirror magazine Golf Club of Forgeneral enquiries text us on 07860 017217 the Year award Pryors HayesGolf Club, Willington Road, Oscroft, Tarvin, Nr Chester CH38NL www.pryorshayes.com FORMORE DETAILSCALL MARTIN OR JOAN ON: 01829741250 Send your stories to: [email protected] 31 GolfersLocal February 2013 Local News

WGTBANNOUNCE2013 Fitfor golf with... BARRIE COMPETITION DATES EDWARDS OurBolton-based strength and conditioning coach looksatshoulderexternal rotation, howiteffects the swing and howtotest forit. The WesthoughtonGC member,who has trained some of the world’stop pro sportsmen, alsoprovides afew simple stretches and strengthening exercises you candoathome.

What is external rotation in relation to Simple stretchtoimproverotation the golf swing? Amorein-depth programofmuscle massageand release techniques, stretching and strengthening is re- quired to getthe best results, but afew simple stretches done at home canbe agood start.

Bolton Golf Club will host the WGTB Men’s Days Outfinal in September.

THE busy WGTB Golf programme for BY GEOFF GARNETT tember concluding with the final at one 2013 is complete and regular players will of Lancashire’stop courses, BoltonGolf soonbereceiving their annual brochures. including De Vere,Marriott, Macdonald Club,with severaltop prizes on offer. Bend your armto90%.The elbowand shoul- Thereare value-for-moneycompeti- Hotels, Golfino,Son Parc Golf in Thereare also twomixed days and one dershould be level. Take aclub and placeitas shown, pull club inwardwith oppositearm tions beginning in Apriluntil September Menorca at arangeofvenues including forladies pairs as well as knockout com- until youfeelalight stretch, keep your body formen, ladies mixed and juniors on offer Stockport, Tytherington, Ashton-under- petitions formen’s and ladies pairs going still and don’t followthe stretch. Hold this with WGTB as usual supporting the Lyne,Northenden,Chorlton, Styal and on throughout the season. stretchfor between 30 seconds to aminutebe- fore changing arms and do each armthree Golf Foundation. Marple. To find out moreand bookyour places, During the backswing your right armrotates externally (right handed golfer). During the times.This stretchcan be done twice aday The competitions havebeen running Oncemorethe top competitionwillbe visit www.wgtbgolf.co.uk or call Ken followthrough it is your left armthat rotates everyday until improvement is seen. for12years and havemanytop sponsors the Men’s Days OutfromApril to Sep- Wardle on 0161 474 1071. externally. Mobility exercise to improveexternal rotation -TheOpen Bookstretch Poor flexibilitycan prevent these posi- tions and cancause some common JOIN UP AND JOIN IN WITH STERLING swing faults. External rotation is absent if your right elbowpoints backwards and is THE newSterling Golf Tour planned tered into afree‘field’draw. Each winner assistant DaveMackinnon havenow present if it points downwards. forthe NorthWest is nowreceiving willreceivethe wildcardoffreetourna- confirmed and compiled the tourna- steadilyincreasing numbers as mem- ment entry and feesaving £40.This will ment schedule to include some of the What effects does poor external rota- bers arejoining at adiscounted rate via continue to applytoall players entered best courses in the NorthWest, which tion haveonthe golf swing? Lie on your left side with knees and arms the website. at each event of the tour. includesthe seasonopener at Dunham Unfortunatelyfor manygolfers re- bent to 90%, supportyour headwith apillow. The Tour is open to allPGA regis- “Join the communityofyoung golfers Forest on April 5. While keeping your lowerbodystill,rotate striction in shoulder rotation, specifi- tered assistant professionals and who not onlyplayonthe Tour but join “They lookforwardtoanswering your torso to the right and arcyour right arm callyexternal shoulder rotation, can over your chest to the oppositeside of your trainees who wish to compete against in the online discussions and learn anyofyour enquiries as partofTeam hinder agood shoulder turn. body. Hold forthree deep breaths and then their peers forcash prizes. about the additional events and special SGT, ”added Rob. Restricted movement maylimit return to the starting position. Do five Tour promoter,Rob Caruana, said: offers via our Facebookand Twitter Forfurther information, e-mail: repetitions. Repeat the exercise in the opposite rangeofmotion on your backswing. direction, starting on your right side. “All players who join with the contin- links on the website.” [email protected] or visit To assessexternal shoulder rotation, Youcan do this mobilitydrill twice aday ued discounted membership offer and Former European Tour Player Peter www.SterlingGolfTour.comtoregis- on your right arm, if youcan getyour everyday until improvement is seen. If your enterany subsequentevents will be en- Barber and experiencedPGA registered ter foryour discounted membership. knee starts to lift as yourotateuse your free forearmbetween a1and 2o’clockpo- armtoholditdown. sition, you’re doing okay.Anything less is considered restricted. Repeat with Strength exercise to improveexternal Readers’ Photo the leftarm whereagood target is be- rotation – The Stretchband strength tween 10 and 11 o’clock. exercise THISmonth’s photo has kindly been sent in from sunnyDubai by Crewe Golf Club senior member Peter Row- ley. Peter and his wifeJean were out vis- iting familylast month and worked as marshals at the OmegaDubai Desert As youcan see in these pictures Aaronhas Stand upright holding an exercise band with Classic. better external rotation in his right side (back your armbent to 90% across your body. The pictureshows Peter,left, with swing position). Work needs to be done on both Slowly externally rotate your armoutwards 1998 US Masters and Open Champi- sides with morefocus on the left shoulder. trying to keep your elbowintothe side of your body. Hold fortwo seconds and return for15 onship winner MarkO’Meara. COMMON FAULTS repetitions before changing arms. Do three Peter said:“Wehad the photo taken BACKSWING – REVERSE SPINE & sets with each arm. Do this exercise everyday until improvement is seen. If youstruggle to during the Pro-Am forthe event. FLYING ELBOW. keep your elbowtucked in, use aheadcover Markisalovelygentleman and still FOLLOW THROUGH – CHICKEN WING between elbowand bodytomake it slightly playing great golf.” easier. Fordetails on training withBarrie, visit www.extreme-sc.co.uk, call Send your photos via e-mail to [email protected] 07817 673916 or follow him on twitter @extremesnc and @swingfituk GolfersLocal February 2013 32 Send your stories to: [email protected] Captains News CAPTAIN’S COURSE Monyn’smoment MANAGER’S MEMBERS gatheronthe first teeto O watchHenllys Golf Club’s newcaptain, Monyn Williams, centre,tee off last month. Monyn replaces DeiniolTegid in office at NEW ROLE the Angleseyclub. IN A departurefromthe normregarding great pride that Jeremy accepted the cap- Oswestrywelcome R theselectionofcaptain at Vale of Llan- taincyand droveinto office last month. gollen Golf Club,the honour this year Club secretaryBob Hardy said: “Judg- has been bestoweduponthe course man- ing by the turnout, he is averypopular ager Jeremy Hughes. choice with the fullbacking of the club Jeremy has been amember of staff at but he mayhavetotake abackseat when N Llangollen for25years and has nurtured it comes to fixing next year’s greens or the course into oneofthe highest re- wages budget! garded courses in NorthWales. He is also “Heisalso adirector on the National averygood golfer having represented the ExecutiveofBIGGA –the British club,the countyand NorthWales in Greenkeepers Associationsothat’s three BILL Ferries drives in at Oswestry. scratchevents. His dadwas amember for big responsibilities on his shoulders in ShropshireAir Ambulance is the 13-hand- E manyyears beforehim and so it was with 2013.” icapper’scharity. PhotobyKen Done. R FamilyaffairatEaton with... Stockport Golf Club captain Gordon McKeating

GL: Wheredoyou live? months. Ihad areplacement knee in GM: Iwas bornand bred in Lanark- November and hope to be back in the shire, Scotland and movedtoMarple swingofthings this month. withmywifeChristine 30 yearsago. My twosons were bornherebut still GL: What areyour other hobbies? like to consider themselvestobe GM: When Iwas younger,Iplayed PeterLongson drives in. INSETwifeRos. Scottish! footballand enjoyedlong distance EATONGolf Club’s newcaptains running (hence the badknee!). I havemadeitafirst at the Chester- GL: What do youdofor aliving? playedwith Poynton Sports Club at a based club. GM: Ihavemyown business stop- reasonable amateur leveland rana Newmen’s captain, Peter Long- ping people falling! Seriously, we fewmarathons. Nowadays,Ienjoy son, has been joined in office by his work within aheight safetybusiness walking and having afew beers in our wife, Ros.Theyhavebecome the first providing solutions forworkplaces. KinseyBar at the club. married couple to be captains at the same time. GL:What is your current handicap? GL: Whichfootballteam do you The pair held their official Drive- GM: If it was based on golfing skills, support? In last month in ayear that also Iwouldn’t be Stockport’scaptain! – GM: I’mahome town diehardsup- marks the 20th anniversaryofthe currently23. porter of Motherwell.Weactually club moving from Eaton Estate to qualified forthe Champions League its existing location in Waverton. GL: Howmanyyears haveyou been a this year forthe first time ever.We Peter said:“We’re so thrilled to be member at Stockport? were beaten in the last qualifying representing the club together in GM: Well,you wouldn’t believe it round, but Ican say‘Iwas there!’ Jeremy Hughes on the teeatLlangollen. suchaspecial year.” when youconsider my handicap,but The husband and wifeduo also I’ve been amember for28years. GL: What’s your chosen charity? havetheir ownlandmarktocele- GM: St Ann’s Hospice,Manchester brate as 2013 willmark20years since GL: What’s the lowest handicap MenCap and the StuartFraser SHOCKON THE TEE FOR NEIL theyfirst tied the knot. you’veeverplayedoff? Thomson Foundation. GM: In the good old days it was 16. MACCLESFIELDGolf Club’s new chester Cityshirts and manager GL: If youhad to pickout one per- Captain gotashockasheprepared for Roberto Mancini masks. Henllehierarchy GL: ApartfromStockport, what’s sonal golf highlight whatwould it be? his Drive-In last month. But Neil showedhis class as he hit off your favourite other course? GM: Probablyabirdie at the signa- Neil Mutter,aseason ticket holder at in styletodenythe Cityfanatics brag- GM: Gleneagles. I’ve playedboth the ture 16th hole of Vale do Lobo Royal Manchester United, was greeted by ging rights. Joining Neil in office are Kings and Queens courses. Both Course,Portugal. It’s apar three of friends who decided to unnervehim at Irene Newton as lady captain and Jack havesome great holes and magnifi- around 205 yards. his big moment by dressing in Man- Buckleyaspresident. cent scenery. GL: If youcould play18holes in a GL: What’s your favourite hole at fourballwith anyone else,who would Stockport? be theother three players? Doreen Nicol, Brad Edwards and Alun GM:The seventh or eighth. The trees GM: Number one wouldbeSeve; not Jones arethe newHenlle captains. surrounding the seventh, particularly onlytowitness his golfing skills but in the autumn, make the approach to to havehis companyfor afew hours THE 2013 captains haveofficially the green ratherspecial.The eighth is would havebeen afantastic experi- been installed at Henlle Park. similarbut is areal tough par three. ence.Number two, although Iamnot Newcaptain, Alun Jones, is joined aScottish Nationalist, Ihavehuge in office by lady captain, Doreen GL: Howoften do youplay? respect forAlexSalmond as apoliti- Nicol, and junior captainBradEd- GM: Normally,Iwould playtwo or cian and would enjoyadebate over a wards. The trio held their Drive-In three times aweek howeverIhave fewholes. Number three would prob- last month when alargecrowd of hadsome major problems with my ably be DarrenClarke.Heismykind members came out in support. leftknee that has meant that Ihave of golfer as he always seemstohave Theywillraise moneyfor the not playedmuchatall in the last six fun even when he is under pressure. Neil Mutter on teewith his ‘friends’. Charlotte HarteyFoundation. Send your stories to: [email protected] 33 GolfersLocal February 2013 AllianceNews DIDSBURY’S DANNY DAZZLES AT DISLEY AFTER the loss of the first Manchester BY GEOFF GARNETT points in the Pro-Amsection. Alliance fixtureof2013 at De Vere Just apoint off their hot pace were Wychwood Park due to snow, prospects peared to make the event areal test of en- home proJamie Goodalland Disleysec- forthe next competitionatscenic Disley durance. retaryand Didsburymember Howard looked gloomy as the course was under a The cream rose to the top as Didsbury’s Ortonwith BramallParkassistant Liam foot of snowjust four days beforeitwas Tour professional DannyWardrop posted Burgess and SebEtchells in thirdspot due to take place. 67 for39pointstowin the individual pro with 39. But thanks to arapid thaw and great sectionfromAlliance captain Kris An- Alliance treasurer VinnyDoyle (Man- work by the Stockportclub’s green staff drews(Ashton-on-Mersey) on 35 points chester) was again in the prizes partner- the Alliance field, with another good and Kieron Gaskell(BeaconPark) with ing Blackley’sMike Smith to 41 pointsin entryofprofessionals, were able to play 34. the Am-Amsection. off the back tees to fullgreens in great Wardropmadeitadouble as his Dids- Theywerewellclear of Marcus Cor- condition. bury partner Malcolm Wellsweighed in field and John Grimes (HartCommon) As the first groups set out, high winds with some useful points to boost their 38 points and John Hiltonand RonJolley with heavy rain squalls and hailstonesap- tally and givethem awinning scoreof41 (De Vere Mottram Hall) 36. Pro-Amwinners Malcolm Wells, left, and Danny Wardropwith Alliance president John Dowd. NORTH WALES PROFESSIONALALLIANCE HAS ANEW SPRING IN ITS STEP

THE NorthWales Professional Al- Rhylpro Rob Dunbar tookthe individ- BY TREVOR PEAKE with his dadPhil, amember at Conwy. Spring fixtures. February6–; liance spring season starts on February ual prizewith 35 points. Andrew Barnett, from the North 13 –Nefyn; 20 –;27– 6with the first of 17 meetings at Rhyl. This season’s second meeting is again ular Stablefordevents and he also took Range, at St Asaph, and Abergele; March 6–BullBay;13– Alliance officials willbehoping the at NefynonFebruary16and then every the Alliance Championship at Royal St Darland Golf ’s MarkSheppard, from Conwy;20–Denbigh; 27 –Maesdu; weather improves as frost caused the Wednesdayuntil the final meeting at David’s in March with aone-under-par Chester,also chalked up acouple of April 3–Royal St David’s;10- cancellation of last year’s opening fix- Pennant Park on May29. 68 at the Harlechlinks, astrokeahead wins each last spring as did former Eu- ; 17 –Llangollen; 24 – ture at the same venue. NorthWales club proMatthew of Dunbar. ropean Tour playerMarkPilkington, ; May1–Padeswood & When the Alliance finally got Totteywon four times last spring.At Totteyalso wonthe top Pro-Am prize from , who claimed victories at Buckley; 8–Rhuddlan; 15 –Henllys; started the following week at Nefyn, Abergele,BullBay and Maesdu in reg- on severaloccasions, acoupleoftimes both Porthmadog and NorthWales. 22 –North Wales; 29 –Pennant Park.

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Call 01244960 292 today or visit www.TheBusinessWealthClub.co.uk/Chester For further informaUon, call 01244 677760 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.chestergc.co.uk GolfersLocal February 2013 34 Send your resultsto: [email protected] Club Results

ABERGELEGC Kennedy &David WJones 36pts;Terry 44pts; LesWilde 44pts; SteveBaggaley Patterson 42pts; AlbertDavies &Clive Barry Lingard, Ron Pugh &John Pro’sWinter Stableford–Division 1: Ryan &Mike O’Leary35pts. 41pts. Vernal 41pts. Turner 61pts;Angela Eke,GaryTurner, DaveWilliams 21pts; HowardEwing Seniors’ Stableford: Ifor Jones 39pts; Texas Scramble: Andy Patterson, Roy Janice Turner &Adam Turner 56pts. 21pts; Jeremy Powell 20pts. CHESTERGC Alan Brewster 38pts; Peter Howland Blackband &Tom Telford58.15; Rob Yellow BallTeam Stableford: Aaron Division 2: RayBurgess 23pts; Mel Ladies’ NewYear Stableford(11 holes): 38pts. Vickers, Frank Thomas &Mike Griffiths, Russ Whitfield &Ricky Jones 23pts; Mike Cleary23pts. Christine Knight 19pts; Patricia Antlett Seniors’ Stableford: LesWilde 42pts; Matthews 58.25; Peter Barker,Bob Burke 127pts; Kenton Cawley, Artie Ladies’ Eclectic (2nd Round):Madeline 14pts; BarbaraCraven13pts. Peter Howland 39pts; Cliff Twamley Clarke &Chris Buckley59.45. Cawley&Helen Cawley123. LloydHughes 48-18=30½. Carole NaughtyNine Ladies’ Stableford(9 38pts. Flag Competition:TerryPrice; Alistair Ladies’ Texas Scramble: Janice Turner, Hubbard53-17=36. holes): Kathy Tasker 18pts. Men’s Winter League Stableford(Week Wright; Peter Bagnall. SueO’Conner&Jackie Rogers 68; Anna Seniors’ Stableford–Division 1: WinterStableford:DThompson 26pts; 14): David Lowe 41pts. Pugh, Angela Eke &Amanda Ord71. HowardEwing 32pts; TerryChaplin KHarrison-Smith 25pts; JConstan- Silver Division: Steven Owens 39pts; HENLLYSGC SundaySocial: Moya Holmes, Angela 27pts; DaveOwen27pts. tinedes 25pts. David Clayton 38pts; Peter HJones Captain’s Drive-In Stableford: Graham Eke,StuartBall&Shaun Holloway Division 2: BillTranter 32pts; Stewart 37pts. Charker 42pts; Kevin Wild 41pts; Colin 99pts; Sheila Russell, Barry Lingard, Williams 29pts; Brian Booth 28pts. CLAYSGC BronzeDivision: Alan Shone 40pts; Redmayne40pts. StuartRogers &Derek Newitt 98pts. Ladies’ Stableford(9holes): Carole SundayWinterLeagueStableford(1): WayneJones 38pts; EmyrOJones Hubbard28pts. Mike DJones 39pts; Colin Bryan 38pts; 37pts. HILLVALLEYGC MOTTRAMHALLGC Ladies’Stableford(9holes): HafThomas StuartRogers 38pts. Ladies’ Winter League (9 holes): Jean NewYear’s DayStableford(9holes) – Stableford: MarkGreen 41pts; Laurie 24pts; June Evans 23pts. Seniors’ Texas Scramble: Maelor Jones 20pts; Ann Thomas 18pts; Olwen Men: MartinBrisbourne 19pts; Kurt Thornton 38pts; Graham Roche 36pts. Davies, StuartMiles, Larry Birch & Thomas 17pts; SueMcCarthy 17pts. Wood 18pts. ALDERSEY GREEN GC Eifion Jenkins 56.1; Brian Mercer,Noel Ladies: Brenda Siertsema 16pts; Beryl OSWESTRY GC Winter League (Round 5): DGilligan Jones, BillHughes&BillKelleher 56.2; HAWARDEN GC Young 15pts. 4BBB Medal (15 holes): Jordan Weaver &CLoftus53pts; RKennah &AKen- RichardKey,TonyJackson, Peter Fraser Pro’sStableford–Division 1: Warren Ladies’ Stableford(15 holes) –Division &Grant Litchfield 51; Peter Turner & nah 53pts; CRichards &RRuscoe &Ernie Williams 57.6. Hughes 38pts; Michael Woodworth 1: Brenda Siertsema 30pts; Helen Dins- MarkHothershall51; Ian Pearce & 51pts. Ladies’Winter League: ShirleyRoberts 37pts; Alan Stubbs 37pts. dale 26pts. Keith Griffiths 51. 26pts; Diane Dare24pts; Sheila Roscoe Division 2: David Kennedy 40pts; Andre Division 2: BettyWhitby 30pts; Sheila 4BBB Medal: Frank Morris&Ian ALSAGERGC 24pts. Roberts 40pts; RoyHursey40pts. Lockett 24pts. Pearce 56; StuartOwen&David Winter League Stableford(9holes): A Seniors’ Winter League Stableford: Ladies’ Stableford(9holes): Helen Thomas 57; NigelSuckley&Martin Smith; KMason; JReynard. Mike Carding 39pts; Peter Lynch37pts; HAWKSTONE PARK GC Dinsdale 22pts; Sheila Lockett 18pts; Jones 58. DilwynJones 36pts. Ladies’ JanuaryMedal –Division 1: Irene Stiles 15pts. ARSCOTTGC MonthlyMedal–Division 1: Michael Kath Gleave87-9=78; Dale Benbow99- Frostbite Trophy (15 holes): Helen PADESWOOD&BUCKLEYGC Seniors’ Team Stableford: Dan Eaton 76-10=66; RichardEvans 80- 18=81; ValJones-Roberts 92-10=82. Dinsdale 28pts; SueBlackburn20pts; 4BBB Stableford: John Percy&Simon Richards, Derek Lewis &Phil Henshaw 10=70; Jordan Pearson 77-6=71. Division 2: Kerry Wallace100-25=75; Irene Stiles 20pts. Jones 46pts; Ian Baynes &OwenG 43pts; David Sawyer,Geoff Roberts & Division 2: Gareth Roberts 73-12=61; NickyJones 102-27=75; Kath Thorney- Jones 45pts; PhillHuxley&Rob Attree Gordon Parks41pts; Andy Davidson, Colin Brand 82-17=65; CliveDavies croft117-32=85. HOLYWELLGC 44pts. Alan Hughes &Peter Begg40pts. 81-12=69. Mixed Social Team Event: Kerry Wal- Men’s Stableford–Division 1: Colin Seniors’4BBB Stableford: LesPovey & MonthlyStableford–Division 1: S Division 3: James Pearson 85-18=67; lace,Lyn Law,Dean Wallace&Matt Roscoe 29pts; AnthonyHitchin 28pts. Cled Davies 42pts; TerryPritchard& Turner 40pts; DSkone 37pts. Dennis Jones 94-26=68; Bernie Peters Bowyer 98pts; Louisa Goff,Julie Wales, Division 2: RaeCarroll 31pts; DaveBell Keith Hughes 41pts; Geoff Hughes & Division 2: PSinclair 42pts; DCrook 88-20=68. Ian Maiden &Mike Powell 86pts; 29pts. NevAnkers 41pts. 40pts. SundayWinter League (2): Paul R Cheryl Greaves, Jane Lloyd, Dave Division 3: Daniel Milton 32pts; Steve Division 3: AConnor 39pts; LTaylor Williams 37pts; Mike DJones 36pts; Greaves &Don Lloyd85pts. Whipday28pts. PRYORS HAYESGC 35pts. Gareth Whitley35pts. Seniors’ Stableford–Division 1: Dave 4BBB Bogey:DannyWilliams &Ben Ladies’ Winter Stableford–Division 1: 6Clubs &Putter:Graham Davis 38pts; Seniors’ Stableford(15 holes): Stewart Ralphs 45pts; Neville Leonard43pts; Thomas +6; Grant Dickinson &Alan PatCoulson 28pts. JimMateer 37pts; DaveMarr36pts. Poole 33pts;Brian Downes 31pts; Roy Alan Molyneux 40pts. Pierce +6;TimPayne &Jason Jones +6. Division 2: Jennifer Triggs 36pts. Ladies’ Stableford(9holes): Yvonne Jones 31pts. Division 2: Barry Stokes 44pts; Division 3: Amy Ellis-Taylor 33pts. Aldridge17pts; Julie Cowling 15pts. Seniors’ Stableford(15 holes): Mike Desmond Clark43pts; RobertParker MARKETDRAYTON GC Men’s Winter League (Week 2) –Divi- Ladies’Canadian Foursomes (9 holes): Carding 32pts; Dilly Jones 31pts; An- 39pts. Senior Ladies’ Team Stableford: Joyce sion 1: Mike Robinson 45pts; Chris Anne Hill &Yvonne Beaumont 16pts; drew Mitchell31pts. Barker,Sue Pearce,Muriel Thomas & Palin 42pts. JennyBrace &Hazel Jones 13pts. Ladies’ Winter League (3): Sheila HELSBY GC BarbaraEvans 56pts. Division 2: Ian Mackenzie 44pts; Steve Roscoe 25pts; Jane Bell24pts; Diane Ladies’ 5Club Stableford: VPritchard, Christmas Stableford: Andrew Arm- Capper 41pts. ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE GC Dare23pts. JLee &RSteven62pts; VFletcher,K strong 37pts; Ian Corcoran 36pts;Terry Midweek Winter League (Week 2):Keith Men’s Am-Am(13 holes):TrevorGard- Hoather &CClothier 59pts. Yale 36pts. Ebbrell43pts; Colin Meadows 42pts. ner, LesGibson, TerryPooley&Steve DENBIGH GC Men’s Yellow BallTeam Stableford: JanuaryMedal –Division1:JackOakes Seniors’ Stableford: Denis Wallett 41pts. Suddaby 68pts; Brian Robinson, Steve Seniors’ Stableford: Alan Brooke 42pts; Lightfoot, Rees, Fletcher &Rhodes 70; Paul Edwards 70; Daniel Oakes 71. Division 2: Derek Evans 41pts. Kiy,MrCaptain &Paul Garside 67pts; Peter Howland 38pts; NobbyMorris 112pts; Poland, Barker,Robertson & Division 2: RichardDavies 67; David Division 3: Derek Thompson 42pts. Roger Lomas, Brian Birtles, Tony 37pts. Makin 108pts; Perry, Kennerley, Jones Bowden 70; NigelWellings 71. Ladies’ Winter Stableford–Division 2: Lomas &Arthur Marshall66pts. Men’s Winter League Bogey (Week 13): &Nagle 108pts. MonthlyStableford: Rob Thompson Vera Randell38pts. David Guidera5up. 4BBB Switch: Shingler &Peters 43pts; 37pts; Peter Barnet 35pts; Andrew Division 3: Amy Ellis-Taylor 30pts. BARON HILLGC Silver Division: Peter Lowe 4up; Phil Sharpe &Fletcher 42pts; Collings & Armstrong 35pts. Team of Three Stableford: EH Evans, Brookes 2up; ClwydJones 2up. Stapley41pts. Ladies’ JanuaryStableford: JoyceBarker UPTON-BY-CHESTERGC GM Jones &JPrice 85pts; HA Hughes, BronzeDivision: LesWilde 5up; Dun- 34pts; MaggieHolmes 33pts; Lorna Men’s Greensome Medal: James Light- HWilliams &DWJones 81pts. canEdwards 4up; RMike Jones 4up. HENLLE PARK GC Walker 30pts. foot &David Galletly68-5.4=62.6; 4BBB Stableford: JK Roberts &N Ladies’ Winter League Stableford(9 Captains’ Drive-In Stableford–Men: HowardClaydon &Graham Patience Warburton 42pts; EH Evans &LH holes): Janice Jones 22pts; Maria Mor- PatRoberts 42pts; Neil Durban 41pts; MILE ENDGC 78-14.4=63.6; Ben Herd&Len Wescott Jones 42pts. gan19pts; Nest Houghton 19pts. DaveCarver40pts. Ladies’ Canadian Greensomes: Carol 82-17.4=64.6. Stableford: Ian WJones 41pts; Evan H Juniors Winter League (Round 6): Ladies:VivDavies 38pts; Janet Johnson Evans, Janice Jones &Jackie Rogers Evans 39pts. Thomas Roberts 73-8=65; Ross Parry 35pts; Lynn Edward31pts. 70pts; Janice Turner,ShirleyThomas, VICARSCROSS GC Seniors’ 4BBB Stableford: Aled Owen 83-17=66; John Roberts 78-12=66. 4BBB Stableford: Ed Smith &Peter Janet Edwards &Angela Eke 70pts. Ladies’ Stableford(13 holes): Sue &JohnKRoberts 37pts; Steve Seniors’ Stableford: Peter Wharton Coombes42pts; JimFletcher &Andy SundaySocial (9 holes): Anna Pugh, Breeze 29pts; PatCunningham 29pts.

DATETHE FOR DIARY

•FRIDAY, 19THJULY, 2013 •ENTRY FEE£50 PER PAIR (NON MEMBERS) TO BOOK OR FOR FURTHER •HENLLE PARK GC, GOBOWEN, SHROPSHIRE •INCLUDES COFFEEONARRIVAL DETAILS, CALL 01978449917 •BETTERBALL PAIR’S STABLEFORD •TWO-COURSE MEAL OR E-MAIL: •GREAT PRIZESUP-FOR-GRABS •PRIZE PRESENTATION [email protected] Foradfeaturesemail: [email protected] 35 GolfersLocal February 2013 Travel Feature CLOSE TO

PERFECTION The modern clubhouse at Close House. Close House is anewish layout set in the hills on the outskirts of Newcastle in the NorthEast boasting thenew Colt course andthe olderFilly. This month Golfers Local’sTREVOR PEAKE sampled its delights as part of aspecial press trip.

WHEN LeeWestwood playedthe brand the main Carlisle-Newcastle road,can be shortat185 yards, is allcarryoverasmall newColt course at Close House in reached in less than three hours from the lake.Thewater extends round the back Northumberland he described it as “A NorthWest and is well worthavisit. leftofthe green, whichisatright angles perfect members’ course in greatcondi- The Colt course was named in honour to the wayyou’replaying and difficult to tionwith greens of very high quality”. of HarryColt, the legendaryEnglish golf hold. Toostrongand you’re in trouble Andthe former worldnumber one, architect who designed, amongst many with adry-stone walljust behind the who is nowplaying out of Close House others, Wentworth, Sunningdale,St green. as their official Tour professional, was George’sHilland SwinleyForest. The 10th, at 471 yards, is alongpullup spot on,considering it only opened in Playing from the white tees, the drive hillwith swampyground on the right May, 2011. at 375 yardlongpar four first is to atight hand side to catchthe errant second shot Both Close House courses areperfectly manicured. Ihad the pleasureofplaying therere- fairwaywith adropdowntothe leftto- but just onesmallbunker on the right at centlyand the undulating course on the wards an ancient woodland and ditchon another two-tier green. hills above the Tyne Valley plays like it the right. Find the fairwayand it’s ashort At the 373-yard11th if youget agood has been laid down foryears with the iron to the green, avoiding alargebunker driveawaybetween the trees at the brow large, undulating and often two-tiered to the leftfront. of the hillit’sjust ashortirontothe ele- greens perfect, belying the fact that they The second is 355 yards uphillall the vated gree,but thereare no bunkers to haveonlybeen in playfor suchashort waywith abunkerright in frontofthe contend with.The green at the short12th, space of time. largeundulating green, while the uphill 184 yards, is cut into the side of the hill NorthEast-based entrepreneur Gra- trek continues at the 327-yardthird, with with twodeep bunkers protecting the ham Wylie owns the excellent complex bushes on the right near the landing area frontand asteep fallawayand abunker including the Colt and Fillycourses, atop at around 200 yards, and atwo-tier green to the left. of therangegolf academy and practice fa- again protected by acrescent shaped The 13th is alldownhillfromanele- LeeWestwood in action at his NorthEast base. cility, a31-bedroomhotel and No 19, a bunker round the right frontcorner.0 vated tee with bunkers strategically restaurant and bar with views over the At 199 yards, the shortfourth is a placed down the right of the fairway, hand corner 80 yards shortofthe green. and after Wylie bought the whole estate Tyne Valley to unwind in after you’ve meatyblowwith amedium or long iron while at the 14th, the shortest on the At the 363-yard18th youdrive from in 2004 it was revamped and redesigned completed your round. keeping awayfromthe deep bunkers on course at 157 yards, youhavetocarryall an elevated tee to anarrow landing area at over the next couple of years. The Par71Colt Course measures the right, while the 341-yardlongfifth the wayoverundergrowth and astream around 200 yards with alargebunker on 6,813 yards and spans 160 acresofthe has astream running up the right side of to alargeundulating green. the leftand astream, whichextends the valley. the fairwaybut it shouldn’t come into The 15th is ablind driveoverapond fulllength of the hole in the trees down USEFUL Renowned golf course designer Scott playunless youhit the most errant of and the brow of ahillwheretoo much the right. The stream opens out into a MacPherson carefully planned the course shots –afierce slice forright-handers. club off the tee could see yourun out of pond to the right side of the green, which INFORMATION around the existing well established trees, At the 383-yardsixth youdrive over fairway. It dog-legs lefttoyet another has awalltothe frontand the leftofit. Green fees forthe Colt Course are£75 lakes and vegetationtofitwith an in- the brow of ahillwith abunker in the two-tier green that has bunkers on either In additiontoWestwood, regulars at throughout the winter months and £100 tended old fashioned design. danger area down the right and another side. the Close House complex include the during the summer,when residents at the The varietyofthe par threes, the oneatthe green, then the seventh is the Sixteen, at 412 yards, is amuchsharper likes of former England and Newcastle hotel pay £75. bunkers and the lay-out wherenoconsec- first par fiveat466 yards alluphillitwill dog-leg left, uphillfromthe tee and captain Alan Shearer. Green fees at the Filly Course are£35. utivetwo holes go in the same direction, take some reaching in twofor the average downhilltothe green. The FillyCourse is aflatter parkland Buggies, electric trolleys and are make it agood test, especially if the wind playerwith another two-tier green and a The green at the 504-yard17th is layout with acouple of holes running all available. blows, as it often does in that partofthe deep bunker just to the right of it. round the corner to the leftand to make alongside the glorious Tyne river. Details, including videos of what Close country. The eighth is alldownhillwith aditch it in twoyou would need to be down the First opened in 1964 as anine-hole House has to offer,can be found at the web- Located just 8.5 miles from Newcastle running from frontright of the green to right side of the fairwayoffthe tee to course forNewcastle University, the Filly site: www.closehouse.co.uk/golf citycentrethe course,just off the A69, back leftand the shortninth, or not so avoid the clump of largeoaks on the left was extended to 18 holes in the eighties

The gorgeous Close House course features some stunning holes. Alan Shearer in action at Close House. GolfersLocal February 2013 36 ForTravelFeaturesemail: [email protected] Travel Feature ROYALCOUNTY DOWN VOTED BEST LINKS OUTSIDE USA Last month Jean Tomlinson hopped over the Irish Sea to visit Belfast, this month GARYTALBOTreports on his trip to Royal CountyDown, in Northern Ireland where he bumped intoafew familiar faces from his days as aprofessional footballer. Aviewofthe course and over to Dundrum Bay.

IWAS last in NorthernIreland in the averypleasant waytotravel. at the time of the troubles to bring young Morris of St Andrews, wasinvited over 1970s working as asports photographer Sweden-based Stena bought the com- people from both sides of the border to- to Royal CountyDownbyits first com- forthe Daily Mail. panyfromother operatorsthree years ago gether.Pat, aformer NorthernIreland mittee to advise them on the laying out In those days we use to fly over to and is building averyefficient ferryserv- goalkeeper,has worked withCo-opera- of the original links course; he was told Belfast, this time Idecided to sail from ice.Belfast ranks as Stena’s largest oper- tionIreland for10years, raising agreat his feewas to be no morethan £4. BirkenheadonStena to Belfast. It was a ating hub outside Gothenburg and there deal of moneyfor the charity–heonce The courseisset in oneofthe largest night crossing taking eight hours and to aretwo sailings aday from Birkenhead. cycled from Belfast to Paris! sand dune areas in Europe.TheDum- be honest Iwas not really looking for- Ihavenot returned to NorthernIre- Imanaged to playafew holes with Pat drum dune complex includes beaches and wardtothe journey, but it turned out to land Isince the late 70s, but Ihave and Mike; theytalked me around the rest dunes from Ballykinler to Inner Dum- be so easy. dreamed of playing the Royal County of this most awe-inspiring course.The drum bayand Newcastle Beach.The It tookjust 30 minutes from my home Down Golf links course,recentlyvoted best Ihavehad the privilegetohave modernsand Dune deposits silt on much in Chester to the BirkenheadDock the best Links courseoutside of America. playedpartof. It is no wonder that people older gravel deposits that date back to the whereIboarded the Stena Lagan. In addition, the course has been rated one arenow travelling travel from alloverthe Ice Age.The course is located in the Mur- PatJennings, right, with GolfersLocal travel Ferrymanager JimWallace was on of the top 10 playable courses in the worldtoplaythis incredible course. lough NatureReserve set against the writer GaryTalbot. hand to greet us and proudly showedus world. SadlyIwas unable to playafull Headprofessional at Royal County magnificent backdrop of the Mountains around the newlyrefurbished ship. round because of arecent hand operation Down, Kevin Whitely, who has been at of Mourne that sweep down to the sea. manyare domed, this makes foratrue Whilst the public areas were already up- and it was not completelyhealed. Ihad the club for21years, said: “Things in The links stretches along the shores of test of anyplayer’scommandofthe tradi- graded, the cabins havejust been done booked into The Hastings Slieve Donard NorthernIreland havechanged agreat Dumdrum Bay, zigzagging back and tional bump and run, the preferred wayto during the course of the winter.They are Hotel –just 30 miles south of the of deal in the time Ihavebeen hereatthe forthtoprovideadifferent vista from vir- playany links course. basic, but very comfortable and clean with Belfast docks. On arrival at the hotel I club. tually everyhole. The most challenging hole is the en-suite bathrooms.The facilities include hadanice surprise as the first personI “Thepeople of NorthernIreland have The narrowest of fairwayssnake their fourth, a228-yardpar three forboth restaurants, bars, cafes, acinema and a saw was my old mate Mike England, for- worked hardtocreate so much goodwill waythrough as impressiveaset of sand ladies and men. From the elevated tee,the shop.Stena Plus passengers havethe use merWelsh international and Tottenham and allthe golf clubs arebenefiting from dunes that Icould imagine.Thefairways viewisbreathtaking and oneofthe most of dedicatedlounges with free snacksand footballer with NorthernIreland’s former the success of RoryMcllroy,Darren surrounded by purple heather and golden photographed in the world. With asea of drinks, priorityboarding and disembarka- international snooker playerDennis Tay- Clarke and Graeme McDowell. gorse aresobeautiful to lookat, but so gorse,amultitude of bunkers, the green is tion. lor.Both Mike and Dennis nowlivein “Roryplays Royal CountyDown punishing and very unforgiving forany long and narrow,rising slightlyfrom The crossing was smooth and very NorthWales.Theyweretheretotake part wheneverhecan; it is oneofhis favourite golfer who maystray from the prescribed fronttobackwith largedropoffs to both comfortable.Therewas no worryofextra in PatJennings Golf Classic; Patisafor- courses.” path. sides and the rear.Thepitchshots aredif- weight suchasgolf bags and sports mer teammate of Mike’s from their days The club was completed in 1897; orig- The bunkers areworld famous and fea- ficult, unless youare in the safehaven at equipment, no long waits at airports. Peo- at Spurs. The Matchinaid of Co-opera- inally,somethe fairways were whereThe tureoverhanging lips of marram, redfes- the frontofthe green. As with most holes ple,myself included, arediscovering it is tionIreland –acharitythat was formed Slieve DonardHotel nowstands. Tom cue and heather.Thegreens arefast and on the course putts runfromfront to back towards the sea. Like the fourth, the ninth, whichisthe signaturehole,isone of the most pho- tographed holes in worldgolf.However, the scenerymust not deceiveyou as a 486-yardpar four is playedfromone side of ahugemound down to afairwaysome 60ftbelowand 260 yards from the tee. From the bottomofthe slope,the second shot is playedovertwo bunkers to araised green.This is ablind tee shot and needs to

Mike England,left, and Dennis Taylor before The magnificent natural landscapeofthe Royal CountyDowncourse. the PatJenningsClassic. ForTravelFeaturesemail: [email protected] 37 GolfersLocal February 2013 Travel Feature

The ninth fairwayatRoyal CountyDownlooking towardsNewcastle and the majestic Mountains of Mourne. hug the largedune on the leftofthe fair- them too dangerous as cartsmay be acci- DonardResort&Spa, whichstands beach,with The Royal CountyDown waytoset up the best approach to the dentally driven into the bunkers. How- proudly on the edgeofthe town of New- Golf Links on oneside.This lovinglyre- green. Thereislittle room forerror;any ever,the club does haveacaddie castle,with the shores of Dundrum Bay stored historic Victorian Hotel with ele- shot drifting will be trapped in the large programme and visiting golfers appreci- at its feet, the Irish Seatoits frontand gant stylish public areas has the most Dune.Once on the green it requires due ate the services provided by the caddies the majestic Mourne Mountains watch- friendly and helpful staff making fora care and attentionasitisundulates from who areexperienced and willadvise and ing over it to oneside and the Royal restful break, the staff canarrangegolf back to front. Pitching around this green addconsiderablytothe enjoyment of CountyDownGolf Club the other just a and lookafter golf clubs etc. The bed- is particularly difficult. your round, particularly forfirst time vis- shortwalk away. After suchachallenging roomshavethe most comfortable beds. The 18th tests the golfer with many itors. Advance requests forcaddies are and enjoyable round of golf,Imade for Just whatisneededafter playing the most obstacles including24bunkers to nego- encouraged at the time of making a the spa wheremywifeChris hadenjoyed challenging round of golf in oneofthe tiate,heather lined fairways and the most booking.Though not employedbythe apampering afternoonand was relaxing most beautiful places in world. The Members’ room in the clubhouse. difficult green on the course ahead. The club theyhave40caddies on hand who on alounger in the tee shot is straightforward, howeverthe chargefrom£40 per person to £70 if car- sun room overlook- fairwaymust be found to navigate the rying twobags. ing the Irish Sea. I second partofthe hole,the furtheryou Royal CountyDownisthe finest of all opted foraswim in hit the second shot the narrowerthe fair- links courses Ihaveevervisited; it offers the largeand luxuri- waybecomes. Once on the green be care- asternchallengefromthe championship ous pool. It is a ful not to over putt as thereare perils on tees. The recordis66set by Ireland’s first haven formost allsides of the hole.This is another of the golfing superstar,Jimmy Bruen, in 1939. golfers after ahard toughest holes on the course,but the Ihavepromised myself areturntripwhen invigorating and on York Street most gratifying. Iamable to play, thoughIwillhaveno challenging dayon NothingcouldbefAiner...n INN Royal CountyDownisaprivatemem- excuses should Iplaybadly.This course the course. An INN bers club allowing visitors to playfour with dramatic panorama of the surround- The Slieve than golfinginSouthCarolina days per week. The club does not allow ing mountains and coastline is agreat ex- Donardstands in six golf cartsonthe course,adecisionmade perience forall golfers. acresofimmaculate • Stay in ahistoric Southern Plantation, English run B&B by health and safetyofficers who deemed We stayedatthe beautiful Slieve grounds facing the • Play leisurely golf on fabulously conditioned courses • Experience the slow pace and charm of small-town mid USA • Relax and unwind after golf by the pool sipping "Mint Juleps" • Luxury en-suite rooms with gourmet breakfast • Golf booked and arranged to suit • Choice of 18 courses within a40-minute drive • Just 50 minutes south of Charlotte Airport

7-DAY SPECIAL FOR ONLY £349 Enjoy 7nights B&B including 3rounds of golf with abuggy for just £349pp +asecond consecutive week for just £300pp (based on 2people sharing and assuming rate of £1 to $1.55) Membersplaying the eighth hole at Royal CountyDown.

USEFUL CONTACTS An INN on York Street, 164 York Street, Chester, SC 29706 RoyalCounty Down Golf Club Stena Line Ltd Slieve Donard Hotel &Spa T: 001- 803- 581- 8681 Sec: 028 4372 3314 T: 0844 770 7070 T: 0284372 6166 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.royalcountydown.org W: www.stenaline.com W: www.hastingshotels.com W: www.innonyorkstreet.com GolfersLocal February 2013 38 To listyour club on thispage e-mail: [email protected] Club Directory

18-HOLECOURSES LOCATION MIDWEEK WEEKENDPRO TEL. SEC TEL. WEBSITE/E-MAIL AlderseyGreen GC Nr Tattenhall, Chester £15 £20 01829 782157 01829 782157 www.alderseygreengolfclub.co.uk Allerton GC Allerton Rd, Liverpool £11 £12.60 0151 428 7490 0151 428 7490 www.liverpool.gov.uk/golf Alsager G&CCSouth Cheshire£30 -01270 877432 01270 875700 www.alsagergolfclub.co.uk Altrincham GC Manchester £14 £17 01619 280761 01619 280761 www.traffordleisure.co.uk AngleseyGCRhosneigr, Anglesey£21 (£11 winter) £26 (£16 winter) 01407 811127 01407 811127 www.theangleseygolfclub.com Antrobus GC Northwich/Warrington £28 (£18 winter) £30 (£22 winter) 01925 730900 01925 730890 www.antrobusgolfclub.co.uk Boysnope Park GC Eccles, Manchester £15 (11 holes £12) £18 (11 holes £15) 0161 707 6125 0161 707 6125 www.boysnopegolfclub.co.uk Bromborough GC Mid-Wirral£25 £25 0151 334 4499 0151 334 2155 www.bromboroughgolfclub.org.uk Chester GC Chester CityCentre £30 £35 01244 671185 01244 677760 www.chestergolfclub.co.uk Chorlton cum Hardy GC South Manchester £17.50 £22.50 (inc Bank Holidays)0161 881 9911 0161 881 5830 www.chorltoncumhardygolfclub.co.uk ClaysGC(Main Course) Wrexham £18 £24 01978 661406 01978 661406 www.claysgolf.co.uk Conwy GC Conwy,North Wales £41 (Mon/Tue) £49 (Wed/Thu)£55 (Fri/Sat/Sun) 01492 593225 01492 592423 www.conwygolfclub.com CreweGCHaslington, Nr Crewe£30/£20 N/A 01270 585032 01270 584099 www.crewegolfclub.co.uk Davyhulme Park GC Davyhulme,Manchester £42 (£21 -2for1 )£42 (£21 -2for 1Sun only) 0161 748 3931 0161 748 2260 www.davyhulmeparkgolfclub.co.uk Denbigh GC Denbigh £24 £30 01745 814159 01745 816669 www.denbighgolfclub.co.uk DidsburyGCNorthenden, Manchester £29 £33 0161 998 2811 0161 998 9278 www.didsburygolfclub.com Eastham LodgeGCMid-Wirral£30 £30 0151 327 3003 0151 327 3003 www.easthamlodgegolfclub.co.uk Fairfield G&SC Audenshaw,Manchester £28 £28 0161 370 2292 0161 301 4528 www.fairfieldgolfclub.co.uk Heaton Moor GC Stockport£25/£38 (callfor promo rates) £31/£44 (callfor promo rates) 0161 432 2134 0161 432 2134 www.heatonmoorgolfclub.co.uk Heaton Park GC Prestwich, Manchester £15/£12 £20/£12 0161 654 9899 0161 654 9899 www.mackgolf.co.uk Henlle Park GC Oswestry £25 £30 01691 670680 01691 670680 www.henllegolf.co.uk HenllysGCBeaumaris, Anglesey£32 £32 01248 811717 01248 811717 www.henllysgolfclub.co.uk Hooton GC EllesmerePort£11.50 (£8.80 Concession) £12.50 (£10 Concession) 0151 339 7689 0151 339 7689 www.brioleisure.org Huyton &Prescot GC Huyton, Merseyside £30 (callfor promo rates) £35 (callfor promo rates) 0151 489 2022 0151 489 3948 www.huytonandprescotgolf.co.uk Knights GrangeGCWinsford£11.50 (£8.80 Concession) £12.50 (£10 Concession) 01606 552780 01606 552780 www.brioleisure.org Leasowe GC Wirral £32.50 £37.50 0151 678 5460 0151 677 5852 www.leasowegolfclub.co.uk Leigh GC Culcheth, Warrington £15 (£20 summer) £20 (£25 summer) 01925 762013 01925 762943 www.leighgolf.co.uk Leyland GC Jct 28 M6, A49 WiganRd£28 £35 01772 423425 01772 423425 www.leylandgolfclub.co.uk Liverpool NorthGCIngoe Lane,Liverpool £11 £12.60 0151 546 5435 0151 546 5435 www.liverpool.gov.uk/golf Lytham Green DriveGCLytham St Annes £35 £35 01253 737390 01253 737390 www.lythamgreendrive.co.uk Mold GC Pantymwyn, Flintshire£22.50 £27.50-£32.50 01352 740318 01352 741513 www.moldgolfclub.co.uk Oswestry GC 2miles SE of Oswestry £27 £31 01691 610448 01691 610535 www.oswestrygolfclub.co.uk Pennant Park GC Whitford,Holywell£23 (2 for£35) £28 (2 for£45) 01745 563000 01745 563000 www.pennant-park.co.uk Pike Fold GC Unsworth, Bury£20 £20 0161 766 3561 0161 766 3561 www.pikefold.co.uk Prestatyn GC Prestatyn,North Wales £25 (£15 winter) £30 (£20 winter) 01745 854320 01745 854320 www.prestatyngolfclub.co.uk Reddish Vale GC Stockport£20 (£15 winter) £35 (£25 winter) 0161 480 3824 0161 480 2359 www.rvgc.co.uk Rhos on SeaGCPenrhynBay, £15 (inc breakfast) £5 Twilight £20 (inc breakfast) £5 Twilight 01492 548115 01492 549641 www.rhosgolf.co.uk Rhuddlan GC Rhuddlan £30 (£20 winter) £35 (callfor promo rates) 01745 590898 01745 590217 www.rhuddlangolfclub.co.uk RuncornGCRuncorn, Cheshire£30 (callfor promo rates) £36 (callfor promo rates) 01928 564791 01928 574214 www.runcorngolfclub.co.uk Sale GC Sale,Cheshire£40 £40 (callfor promo rates) 0161 973 1730 0161 973 1638 www.salegolfclub.com Shaw HillHotel, G&CCNrChorley£50 £60 01257 279222 01257 269221 www.shaw-hill.co.uk ShrewsburyGCCondover, Nr Shrewsbury£32 £38 01743 874581 01743 872977 www.shrewsburygolfclub.co.uk Swinton Park GC Swinton, Nr Manchester £20 (£15 winter) N/A 0161 793 8077 0161 794 0861 www.swintonparkgolfclub.co.uk The Oaks, Mollington Mollington, Chester £20 (£15 winter) £25 (£20 winter) 01244 852805 01244 852805 www.theoaksmollington.co.uk Upton-By-Chester GC Upton, Chester £30 (£20 winter) £30 (£20 winter) 01244 381333 01244 381183 www.uptongolf.co.uk Vale of Llangollen GC Llangollen, Denbighshire£26/£34/£39 £30/£38/£43 01978 860906 01978 860906 www.vlgc.co.uk Vicars Cross GC Chester £35 (£25 off peak) £35 (inc Bank Holidays)01244 335595 01244 335174 www.vicarscrossgolf.co.uk WalmersleyGCBury£20 (£15 winter) £20 (£15 winter) 0161 763 9050 0161 764 7770 www.walmersleygolfclub.co.uk Walton HallGCJ10, M56 Nr Warrington £14.70 £19 01925 263061 01925 263061 www.waltonhallgc.co.uk Westhoughton GC Westhoughton, Bolton £20 (£13 winter) £25 (£18 winter) 01942 811085 01942 811085 www.westhoughtongolfclub.co.uk William Wroe GC Flixton, Manchester £11 £14.50 0161 748 8680 0161 748 8680 www.traffordleisure.co.uk Woolton GC South Liverpool £35 £40 0151 486 1298 0151 486 2298 www.wooltongolfclub.com Wrexham GC Wrexham, NorthEast Wales £35 (£20 winter) £40 01978 351476 01978 364268 www.wrexhamgolfclub.co.uk 9-HOLECOURSES LOCATION MIDWEEK WEEKENDPRO TEL. SEC TEL. WEBSITE/E-MAIL Adlington GC Macclesfield £9.50/£18 (Graduate course) £6.50/£12 (Academy Course) 01625 850660 01625 850660 www.adlingtongolfcentre.com AintreeGC&DR Aintree, Liverpool £8 (£10 18 holes) £9 (£12 18 holes) 0151 523 5157 0151 523 5157 www.aintree.co.uk/golf CaerwysGC2miles from J30&31 A55 £8 (£9 18 holes) £9 (£10 18 holes) 01352 721222 01352 721222 [email protected] CheadleGCCheadle, Cheshire£22 £30 0161 428 9878 0161 491 4452 www.cheadlegolfclub.com ClaysGolf Centre Wrexham £4.50 (£3 jnr) £4.50 (£3 jnr) 01978 661406 01978 661406 www.claysgolf.co.uk Darland Rossett £9 £11 01244 579282 01244 579282 www.darlandgolf.co.uk Fore Golf Chester £5/£8 £5/£8 01244 881800 01244 881242 www.foregolfdiscount.co.uk Fore Golf Alyn Waters Wrexham £5/£8 £5/£8 01978 855131 01978 855131 [email protected] Hartford GC Northwich£7.50 £9.50 01606 871162 01606 871162 www.hartfordgolf.co.uk Oak Royal GC Withnell, Nr Chorley£10/£16 £12/£18 01254 830616 01254 830616 www.oakroyalgolf-countryclub.co.uk PenmaenmawrGCPenmaenmawr, Conwy £12 (£18 18 holes) £12 (£18 18 holes) N/A 01492 623330 www.pengolf.co.uk PlasseyGCEyton, Nr Wrexham £8 (£12 18 holes) £9 (£16 18 holes) 01978 780020 01978 780020 www.plasseygolfclub.com RhylGCRhyl, Denbighshire£10 (9/18 holes) £10 (9/18 holes) 01745 353171 01745 353171 www.rhylgolfclub.co.uk -Pwllglas GC Pwllglas, Nr Ruthin £16 (£12 winter) £22 (£16 winter) 01824 702296 07881 426178 www.ruthinpwllglasgc.co.uk Sandfield GC &DRBridgeTrafford,Chester £6/£7.50 £6/£8.50 01244 301752 01244 301752 www.sandfieldgolf.co.uk SouthportOld Links GC Southport, Lancashire£12.50 (£16 summer) £16 (£20 summer) N/A 01704 228207 www.southportoldlinksgolfclub.co.uk Westminster Park GC Chester £5 (£4 Concession) £5 (£4 Concession) 01244 680231 01244 680231 www.brioleisure.org Please contact the respectiveclubs to confirmprices beforeyou make your visit.

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T: 01244 852805 E: [email protected] W: www.theoaksmollington.co.uk The OaksGolf Club,Townfield Lane, Mollington, Chester CH1 6NJ Send your stories to: [email protected] 39 GolfersLocal February 2013 Columnist&Tips

TAKING ATURN FOR Talking pointswith... GRAHAM THE BETTER CARTER GolfWorks teaching proDanielHaughian, based at the Adlington Golf Centre,in Macclesfield,with some useful tips on howtomake afull turn on the backswing . OurCheshire-basedcolumnist shares histhoughts on the role of Lady Luck in recent news stories.

AT THIStime of year,itisnot unrea- it did, allsorts of commentators will 1 4 sonable to expect course closures, espe- chip in with their twopenn’orthofac- cially if the weather keeps doing what cusations and denials and ‘war stories’, it’s been doing forthe last fewmonths. just to keep the storyalivefor afew Norisitunreasonable to expect takings days,and in the minds of the people. to be down, especially if members see Twomorestories that havecaused a no reason forgoing to the club if they collectiveshake of the heads and much can’tplaygolf (thereis, of course,the gnashing of teeth areinfinitelymore ubiquitous eternal, but usually luckless interesting and equally saddening: the optimist who turnsuponthe off HS2 sagahas reared its uglyheadinthe chancethe course might open,hanging northwest -ifyou visit the HS2 web- on to the weather forecaster’s promise site,you cansee foryourself just how of athaw,despite the course stillbeing much of the Staffordshireand hidden under three inches of snow!) Cheshirecountryside willbescarred His presence is almost always tem- and blighted by the proposed railway pered by the also-ubiquitous (and line.One of my (luckless) teaching col- equallyluckless) pessimistic golf addict leagues in Yorkshiretold me the line who turnsupanyway, knowing there’ll willrun less than 200 yards from his 2 be no playthat day, and sits in the house.Hewas thinking of moving in lounge, drinking tea, reading the sports the next fiveyears, but what chance is pages, and whingeing about not being thereofselling? able to play. Idon’t knowifthere’sa Someone,somewhere, willhavethe collectivenoun forsuchpeople,but exactfigureonhow manygolf courses thereought to be! Amisery, perhaps. will be affected by the proximityofthe Unsurprisingly, in this current eco- HS2 line,but would youwant to be a nomicclimate (to change‘climates’ for member of suchaclub? No,meneither. afew minutes), thereisanincreasing In my opinion, there’snoreal justifica- number of golf clubs suffering asignif- tion forsuchblatant destruction of the icant drop in membership,whichaf- countryside,and no self-respecting fects the financial stabilityofthe club, Englishman should raise afinger to whichmay well affect continual im- help clear the first tree. provement programmes, maintenance Finally,the most saddening storyof projects, staffing levels etc. Further,re- the year so far:for apaltry £25 million, cent reports suggest thereisanalarm- theworld number one golfer jumps the ing number of clubs getting into Titleist ship and lands at Nike! Losing 3 financial difficulties, and in danger of the biggest draw in golf causes the big closing. man at Titleist to drip tears into his Allofwhich, in these straitening morning cornflakes. times, suggests golf,atany level, does Meanwhile, over at Nike:“Welcome not needadverse publicityinany guise, to the family,”saysTiger.“Alroight?” ACOMMON problem that Ioften see back foot pointing straight (PIC 2). but needs allthe help it canget. says the worldnumber one golfer. So it is that, in the fallout of the cy- Unluckily, poor playinthe very next is that golfers find it hardtomake agood Agreat waytoallow yourself to turn cling debacleoverdoping,VijaySingh event caused both the worldnumber turnintheir backswing. your hips better is to flareout the back admits to taking abanned substance, one golfer and his newstable-mate to This leads to averyupright backswing foot acouple of inches (PIC 3). This will and then pulls out of an event citing a miss the cut, and the big man atTitleist position. From hereitiseasy to slice or allowyou to makeasufficient hip turn, badback. Hadtherenot been sucha has eggs and bacon the next morning! pullthe ballasthe club path worksfrom whichthen allows forabetter shoulder backlash over the Armstrong admis- Tales of golfing derring-do have out to in (PIC 1). turn(PIC4). sion, and doping in sportingeneral, been thin on the ground this winter, Older golfers suffer from this in par- From hereyou should be able to get Singh’s singing like acanaryprobably and, to capitall,Phil Mickleson’s 59th ticularly as theydon’t havethe abilityto the path of the club working morefrom wouldn’t havemerited ahalf-page shot in the Phoenix Openlippedout. turntheir hips, whichallowsfor abetter the inside and saygoodbye to that spreadinthe sports pages, but, because Some people havenoluck! shoulder turn. Theyoften setup with the dreaded slice!

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Prestatynupforsale

ONE of the region’s top golf courses has been put up forsale foroffers over £1m. Prestatyn Golf Course has been placed on the market at the request of the trustees and club council foroffers JANE LANDS A in the region of £1m to £1.25m. Established in 1905 and operated as apopular private members’ golf club, Prestatyn is arenowned champi- onship links course featuring aclub- house built in 1972. The club regularly hosts the Welsh Open StrokeplayChampionship,the STARRING ROLE Welsh Amateur Championship,the Welsh Ladies Championship and re- Oldham lady vice-captain plays gional professional events. leadinITVcrimeseriesdrama Top10forEloise

ARETIRED detectivechief superin- BY GEOFF GARNETT WEST Lancs junior Eloise Healeyse- tendent from GreaterManchester Police cured atop 10 finish at the Doral Pub- has swapped real lifedrama forarole as a “I certainlyadvised if something wasn’t lix Junior Golf Classic in America. fictional detectiveinanITV police drama true to lifeorwas factually inaccurate and The Liverpool youngster had series Crime Stories,whichwas first shown when Ireadascript or something on set rounds of 73, 78 and 75 foratotalof in November. which didn’t quite work Iwould say‘why 226 and ashareof10th in the 14-15 Jane Antrobus, who willtake over as don’twetry it thisway’becauseinreal life years agesection. lady captain at Oldham Golf Club this that is howitwould be. The annual 54 hole international year,retired from the forcetwo years ago. “Being in frontofthe cameras wascer- event takes place at the Doral Resort Nowshe’s appearing on our TV screens tainlyadifferent challenge. I’mnot inex- and Spa, Miami, in Florida. as an actor and she hopes it’s the startof perienced in frontofcamerasasI’vedone Eloise followed the performanceup anew career. alot of high-profile media stuff in my with athirdplace finishinthe PARS The 20-partsemi-improvised series senior detectiverole with GMP butitisa Junior International Championship sees her portray DetectiveInspector Jane different wayofworking. Jane Antrobus on screen in Crime Stories.INSET: In action at Oldham. forgirls aged between 15 and 18 at the Preston–apartshe won after producers “I come from 30 years of policing and PGA Golf Club,PortStLucie, embarked on asearch forformer officers Ben from 20-plus yearsofacting so we in realitycomes over to the cameras as players formorethan 40 years since join- Florida with rounds of 69, 79 and 81. who wanted to giveacting ago. learnedfromeachother. genuine,and youreally cantellthat the ing the club as ayoung junior and is look- “Theshow, made on The Bill’s old set, “It’snot averbatim line-by-line script performance of the actor is enhanced. ing to follow in the footsteps of her mum is filmedinthe styleofafly-on-the-wall and alot is improvised and the guest ac- “Myfavourite police dramas are Scott and dadwho areclub legends. NamingrightsforISM documentarywithformer Hollyoaks actor tors, of whichtherewereonlyfour in and Bailey, Prime Suspect and Iwatched Shewas Oldham lady captain in 2000 Ben Hullplaying DetectiveSergeant Ben everyepisode playing experts, witnesses The Bill formanyyears.Itwas very watch- and is set to do asecond termthis year – THE sports management company Shaw,” explained the 15 handicapper. and victims, were very,verynervous. able with good stories and procedurally succeeding her sister Sheila. owned by former European Tour “I used my three decades of police ex- “I told them that is natural because you very good. The Lancashire club’s honours boards golfer Andrew 'Chubby' Chandler has perience to giveproducers advice on mak- areused to doing it differentlyand having “I would like to getinto the crime reflectsher success on the course where securednaming rights foranew golf ing the showrealistic and Inow want to scripted lines whichyou havelearned and drama advisory field whereIambehind she has won everyladies ’major’onoffer academy in Cheshire. continue my acting career beyond crime you’re used to knowing howit’sgoing to the scenesadvising producers or writers with aparticular highlight being the The £800,000 development will shows. unpickfromstarttofinish. But those on procedures. Edith Antrobus Trophy given when her markthe latest phase of expansion at “Thereisalot of me in the partbut I’ve nervesare good feelings to harness. “I don’tsee myself at the Royal Shake- mother became the first lady in the club High Legh Golf Club,near gonebackafewranks lowerthanIfin- “Inreal life, unless youare ahardened speareCompanybut Idofeel Icould play to be made president. Knutsford, whichwas bought out of ished in the police,asIwas detectivein- criminal, it’s averyharrowing experience anyrole,not necessarilyacop role,where Already well known on the North administration in 2011 by entrepre- spector in 1996, but alot of it is done forasuspect to go into apolice station. anorthernactress is required.” West ladies golf scene,Jane’s face has sud- neur Andrew Vaughan. with my personality, my styleand my Likewise foravictim and awitness. The 54-year-old, from Rochdale,has denlybecome awhole lot morerecognis- It willbeknown as the ISM Golf knowledgeofhow to do things. “Sofor an actor to havethose feelings been oneofOldham Golf Club’s top lady able further afield. Academy.

Ian Woosnam recently had agame with me at Malkins Bank andhis words were MALKINS BANK GOLF CLUB “what agem you have here”. BetchtonRoad, Malkins Bank, Sandbach, CheshireCW114XN “Since three partners and Ihave taken Tel: 01270 765931 over, the course has flourished, we have www.malkinsbankgolfclub.co.uk built anew clubhouse, refurbished the course, made changes to the practice range ATTENTION LADIES! SEEOUR RESIDENTIAL and don’t worry if you’re anon golfer, Beginners lessons available DON’T MISS OUR GOLF&SOCIETY whetherlady or gent, you willbewell looked Lunch &lesson just £10 after in the bar and restaurant where we Call 01270 765931 to book MEMBERSHIP SPECIALSONPAGE 26 serve from dawn til dusk. The social side is great with many tribute FLEXIBLEMEMBERSHIP SOMETHING FOREVERYONE acts/themed evenings, so don’t be agolf Tailor-made memberships to suit – OPENDAY!!! • Casual &Social golf widow, come and enjoy! from £22 per month SATURDAY, 16TH MARCH, 2013 • Weekly competitions Tony Minshall CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP • Play 18 holes of golf HALFPRICE DRINKS Available from £84 per month Meet other members Thursday evenings ” Director of Golf • •