RAMSIDE HALL MEMBERSHIP
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RAMSIDE HALL MEMBERSHIP
FREE AT GOLF CLUBS IN THE NORTH EAST AND YORKSHIRE - ISSUE NORTHERN 25 INSIDE JULY 2014 56 PAGES OF GOLF FACES, PLACES AND ACES www.northerngolfer.co.uk SENIORS SPECIAL. RYDER CUP STARS AT ROCKLIFFE N I W LL RAMSIDE HA BEST OF WEST. WESTWOOD’S HOPES P MEMBEGRES36HI SEE PA CHARITY CHAMPS. COCO’S CASH BONANZA PLUS BOWLED OVER win FOURBALLS AT THE KP AND BURGHAM, PLUS A CUSTOM FIT DRIVER SEE PAGE 50 How golf gripped cricket star Paul Collingwood REVIEWED: BELLINGHAM GC • SCARTHINGWELL GC CUSTOM FITTING BY EXPERIENCED PGA PROFESSIONAL Flightscope and Golf Science Centre LIKE US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/philipsgolfdiscount FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @philipsgolfne OPENING TIMES: Mon 9am-6pm, Tue - Thurs 9pm - 7pm Fri-Sat 9am-6pm Sun 10am-4pm NEW WEBSITE, BUY NOW ONLINE THE NUMBER ONE INDEPENDANT CUSTOM FIT CENTRE IN THE NORTH EAST COMBINED PGA PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE OF OVER 100 YEARS At Philips Golf Discount Centre we offer club fittings using the state of the art FlightScope Launch monitor, as used by many manufacturers All club fittings are performed by PGA Professionals using real golf balls, not range balls which give inaccurate data as they do not launch & spin like real golf balls. 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Seaton Carew was the latest to fly the flag with the Brabazon Trophy, following Longhirst Hall’s EuroPro Tour success. Moor Allerton is next up for EuroPro action, while the mouthwatering line up for the English Seniors Open at Rockliffe Hall in this a Ryder Cup year is sure to bring the crowds out in force over the August Bank Holiday weekend. The weather has been largely kind in recent weeks and the forecast doesn’t look too bad either. The organisers and greenkeeping staff have put in so much effort for the big events they deserve the sun to shine and show off their courses and our region at its best. Of course cricket is a sport which relies on the weather even more than golf and this month our cover story is a fascinating interview with Paul Collingwood, who has risen from humble beginnings to become one of the North East’s most successful sportsmen of recent years. He has had the pleasure of swinging his clubs on courses across the world but there is nothing he likes better than driving straight down the middle at some of the UK’s best golfing venues. Individuals have once again shone and special congratulations goes to Garrick Porteous who picked up his first win as a professional, Matt Fitzpatrick who is making quite an impression in the early stages of his pro career and also to our columnist Graeme Storm. Having endured a difficult start to the season Graeme qualified for the US Open and is showing signs of returning to his best while taking the time to pass on advice to youngsters at Dyke House, which inspired them to victory, and to lend his support to Rockliffe Hall’s efforts to promote the English Seniors Open. Steve Cram once again had a great turn out for his golf day in aid of COCO - see how many of the orange-clad celebrities you can name on page eight - and we have all your usual favourites to enjoy over a cuppa or a pint in the clubhouse before or after your round. Keep your news coming in we’ll see you next month. Paul Robertson, editor [email protected] 08-09 COCO GOLF DAY Celebrities join Steve Cram at Slaley Hall for his golf day in aid of COCO 31-39 GOLFER NEWS More success for Kevin Harmison, plus Greenwatch with Simon Olver 42-43 EUROPRO TOUR Garrick Porteous’ first win as a pro, plus a look ahead to Moor Allerton 44 MATCHPLAY PAIRS Round three draw 46-47 ROCKLIFFE HALL We look ahead to the English Senior Open at Rockliffe 48 TIPS 50 COMPETITIONS Win golf for four at The KP and Burgham, plus a custom fit driver FRONT COVER 54 FROM THE BUNKER Paul Collingwood on swapping the willow for irons and his glittering career Readers’ news and pictures win When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it 18 BELLINGHAM GOLF CLUB The Brabazon Trophy at Seaton Carew, Burgham’s new luxury development, and Prudhoe’s Thomas Rowland shines at St Andrews The dreaded sh**ks Pages 28-30 ©Offstone Publishing 2014. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All information contained in this magazine is as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Offstone Publishing cannot accept responsibility for errors of inaccuracies in such information. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically grant Offstone Publishing a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the magazine. All material is sent at your own risk and although every care is taken, neither Offstone Publishing nor it’s employees, agents or subcontractors shall be held liable resulting for loss or damage. Offstone Publishing endeavors to respect the intellectual property of owners of copyrighted material reproduced herein. If you identify yourself as the copyright holder of material we have wrongly attributed, please contact the office. Offstone Publishing do not guarantee the insertion of any particular advertisement on a specified date or at all. 04-27 TEEING OFF 40 SCARTHINGWELL GOLF CLUB MEMBERSHIP AT RAMSIDE HALL PAGE 36 NORTHERN GOLFER 03 We’re Open 9am - 5.30pm Mon - Sat TEEINGOFF Trolley Service & Repairs Motocaddy, Powakaddy, Hillbilly & More £100 P/Ex* For any old set of irons Against Cleveland 588 irons inc. custom fit * Compare your driver against Taylormade SLDR, Cleveland 588, Wilson Tour M3 - Free Test by Appointment Chris McDonnell The Amazing GoKart Electric Trolley - Compact, Superlight & Powerful from £269 Super Mac nets top prize Guaranteed £100 Minimum Part Exchange (any set/condition) against many custom built iron sets FREE Loft & Lie Check by Appointment. Repairs & Re-grips FREE Service voucher worth £35 with every Motocaddy electric trolley We stock batteries, chargers & spares for all leading trolley brands www.zflgolf.co.uk T: 0191 2702362 E: [email protected] Unit 8d, North Tyne Ind. Estate, NE12 9SZ Opposite ASDA Benton. Two minutes from A19 Whitley Bay Exit on A191 Old Coast Road 04 NORTHERN GOLFER Return to Northumberland sees Chris McDonnell take the spoils in pro-am C hris McDonnell picked up one of the biggest cheques of his career when he won the NE/NW PGA A-BELCO pro-am at Close House. The former Stocksfield golfer returned from working in the Middle East to take part in the tournament, which had a prize fund of £8,500, the biggest the area PGA has offered thanks to the sponsorship of the worldwide A-BELCO group of companies, which is based in Ashington, Northumberland. Andrew Scrimshaw, assistant professional at Close House, pulled the event together - attracting 50 teams and McDonnell, who has won on the Alps Tour, shot 66 over the revamped Lee Westwood Filly course to win by one shot from Sharpley’s Simon Robinson, with Vince Guest (Teesside) and Martin Forster (Tynedale) a further shot back. Ross Crowe led the winning Advanced Installations Ltd team of Ian Dummett, Ian Henderson and Ian Drakesmith on 125. McDonnell and Craig Goodfellow then shared the spoils at the Hadrian Group Stocksfield Pro Am after both scored five under par 65s. Simon Robinson and Martin Forster were again in the frame with two under-par 68s. Toon tee off Newcastle United’s official charity is holding a special golf day at Slaley Hall on September 3. In association with Bidvest 3663, the Newcastle United Foundation event will raise vital funds to help disadvantaged children, young people and their families across the region. Around 50,000 people benefit from the organisation’s range of sport, health and educational projects each year. The golf day will begin at 10am with breakfast and registration before teeing off with a shotgun start at 1pm on the Priestman Course at the Northumberland resort. The day’s golf will be followed by a two-course dinner. Teams of four are still available and are priced from £495. To enter, contact Jennifer Rea, tel 0191 201 8501 or email [email protected] TEEINGOFF Closing in on a cup place Dean Bailey catches up with Lee Westwood ahead of an exciting summer of golf I t’s an important time for Lee Westwood. The next three months will decide whether he makes it into the European Ryder Cup side to play the US at Gleneagles in September. The Close House attached professional arrived in the North East ahead of the Scottish Open at Royal Aberdeen and was happy to be back at the Northumberland club, “I’ve always enjoyed coming to Close House whenever I’m in the UK. Everyone’s so friendly and it’s a beautiful spot to come to.” Westwood, who returns to competitive golf after three weeks at the Scottish Open, is looking forward to The Open at Hoylake, where he finished tied-31st in 2006 – when Tiger Woods won over the sunbaked Lancashire links, “It’s always good to play an Open Championship in England, particularly at those courses on the west coast, closest to home for me – I always get a lot of support when I play those events.” Westwood, who now lives in Florida having grown up in Worksop, is looking forward to a big finish to the season – which sees the Open, USPGA, a WGC event and the FedEx Cup Playoffs take place inside three months, “I’ve been a bit inconsistent this season. I played well at The Lee Westwood Masters (seventh) and The Players (tied-sixth) and won in Malaysia in May; it’s always great to win a tournament, but winning by seven shots gives you the chance to enjoy the last few holes and take it all in. It’s nice to get back into the winners’ circle and perform well under pressure again.” Since his win in Malaysia, Westwood, who is working on his swing with Mike Walker, has missed the cut in the US Open and finished in a tie for 35th place in the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth. “I’m looking forward to playing well in the events coming up in the next few months and getting into the Ryder Cup team for Gleneagles – there’s lots of points on offer, lots of big tournaments coming up and one big win can bring me right into the team.” Play Wynyard... The 18 hole, par 72, championship Wellington Course at Wynyard Golf Course is, quite rightly, rated as one of the North’s top golf courses. To book t: 01740 644399 ext 22 or go to www.wynyardgolfclub.co.uk Two Ball Coffee and bacon rolls on arrival then 18 holes for only £89 (total cost). Four Ball Coffee and bacon rolls on arrival then 18 holes for only £159 (total cost). Societies Coffee and bacon rolls, 18 holes followed by steak & ale pie for only £49 per person (min. 12 players). Offers available until 30th Sept 2014 subject to availability. NORTHERN GOLFER 05 Summer Offer FULL MEMBERSHIP 1st July - 31st Jan 2015 TEEINGOFF £190.00 OPEN COMPETITIONS 2014 Ladies - Tuesday 15th July Mixed - Thursday 24th July Seniors - Wednesday 20th August To enter or for further details telephone 01642 765000 Have you played at Ingleby Golf Course G GLE O LF BY B A R W I AC Fantastic benefits FREE baskets of balls! VISITORS & GOLF SOCIETIES WELCOME Driving Range - Golf Shop - Bistro CK Y IN DRIVING RANGE MEMBERSHIP NOW AVAILABLE 12 months only £35.00 M ADE www.inglebygolf.co.uk 01642 765000 Open to the public Lullingstone Crescent, Ingleby Barwick, Stockton on Tees, TS17 5GJ Matt Fitzpatrick (Image credit: Andy Waple) Matt’s in the money First victory as a pro nets Fitzpatrick £14,000, but one tournament won’t let him in BRANCEPETH CASTLE GOLF CLUB FANTASTIC GREEN FEES FROM £15 AVAILABLE ON SELECTED DAYS AND TIMES! Seniors Open 4BBB Thursday 7th August £26pp Mens Summer Open 4BBB Sunday 10th August £30pp Sir Arthur Wood Mixed 4BBB Sunday 31st August £26pp Leonard Crawley Scratch 36 holes Saturday 13th September £28 Mens team of 4 stableford Saturday 20th September £60 per team Visitors & Societies always welcome Telephone us on 0191 3780075 for further information or email [email protected] www.brancepeth-castle-golf.co.uk The Clubhouse, Brancepeth, Durham, DH7 8EA 06 NORTHERN GOLFER M att Fitzpatrick took time out to head to Wimbledon after picking up his first pay cheque as a pro. The 20-year-old from Sheffield banked around £14,000 from his pro debut in the Irish Open. The 2013 US Amateur champion, who turned pro following the US Open, shot a final round 68 for a five-under-par tally at the Fota Island course in Cork. Fitzpatrick managed five birdies and just two bogeys to end with a share of 29th place. “I really enjoyed my week and it’s gone quite well for me,” he said. “My first goal was to play all four rounds and I managed to do that despite a poor first round and I’m feeling very happy now. “There wasn’t a lot of difference competing out on the golf course compared to when I was an amateur. It’s just that there is more going on off the course to deal with such as media requests and sponsor commitments and so on. “I’m not sure what I will do with my first cheque but then knowing my dad [Russell] he’ll probably not let me spend any of it. “It does seem a little bit strange knowing that it is my money and I’ve earned it.” Graeme McDowell earned a similar first pay cheque of his professional career at Fota Island 12 years ago in the Irish Open. Fitzpatrick finished in a tie for 26th place in French Open at the Le National course outside of Versailles, 10 shots behind McDowell, but his efforts to obtain an invitation to compete in the Scottish Open have fallen on deaf ears. Ironically, Fitzpatrick had earned a start at Royal Aberdeen after winning last year’s US Amateur but once he turned pro the invitation was rescinded and an approach to Scottish Open organisers left him in little doubt he would not be afforded an invitation. “I just think it’s a bit unfair that I had qualified for the Scottish Open but now that I am a pro I am unable to obtain an invitation,” Fitzpatrick said. TEEINGOFF Stow steals the show Ben tames Seaton Carew to take the Brabazon Trophy with a record-equalling performance T here was a spectacular finish to the Brabazon Trophy at Seaton Carew - and a winner with a Geordie connection. It requires something special to win major championships and Wiltshire’s Ben Stow delivered that in record style in front of a big crowd at Seaton Carew. And within minutes he was on the phone to his dad Kevin, who hails from Whickham in Gateshead, to share his success. He had won with birdies at the final two holes for a record-equalling 66 and an aggregate of 278, 14 under-par, and just a shot ahead of his England teammates Ryan Evans and Ashley Chesters - who had a putt to set a new course record on the final green and force a playoff his 10-footer just shaving the hole. “This is an amazing feeling after an amazing round,” said Stow. “This is a massive win for me. “Apart from the Amateur Championship it doesn’t come much bigger than winning the England Strokeplay title. “Some days it is your day and it was mine today. I putted phenomenally. It just looked like the ball would drop in all day long. I had no idea how many I was under-par but today was up there with some of Ben Stow with the Brabazon Trophy the best golf I’ve ever played. I love the limelight, I’m a performer. I love it when my heart is pounding in my chest and it was at the end. “I bogeyed 16, which was a good bogey in the end, and the last two holes I hit six shots exactly where I wanted them. “My dad’s from the North East and I love coming back up here - it’s my second home - and I can think of nothing better than winning here.” He did it in real style with a birdie from 15-feet at 17. Then at the last, his approach rolled off a slope to within seven-feet and he calmly rolled in the putt for a closing three. Apart from Stow and Chesters, there was another 66 produced by Irish international Gary Hurley which saw him storm through the field and finish in fifth place. Play Two Championship Golf Courses £75.41 Membership for only Risk & Reward Per month Golf at its Best The Cathedral Course UK’s only new course opening this summer Number 1 on For more information please call 0191 386 9514 or visit www.ramsidehallhotel.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 07 TEEINGOFF Coco banks the winnings Celebrities, sportspeople and friends join Steve Cram for his annual golf day at Slaley Hall in aid of COCO T hirty sportsmen and women from around the UK journeyed to Slaley Hall in Northumberland to join Steve Cram for his celebrity golf day in June. The event, now in its 11th year, raised £25,000 for COCO – the charity Cram founded alongside former British Army Major Jim Panton in 2000. Cram, who had a busy schedule ahead of the event working with the BBC, said: “It’s nice to have a day to relax and enjoy my golf. “It’s a great day for us as a charity. This event has become a great fixture and we’ve got 39 teams taking part. This year’s sponsors Grosvenor have a lot of teams here today from all over the country and its fantastic to have them involved. “We really do appreciate the fact that people give up their time to come here every year. I think that people really enjoy themselves and the celebs can really relax and enjoy their golf and, more importantly, some good company.” COCO recently announced its Schools for Life Project and Cram added: “The golf day isn’t just about the money we raise, it’s about the friends we make and spreading our message to as many people as possible. We’re evolving as a charity, using what we’ve learned from our work so far in Africa and trying to focus what we’re doing around the Schools for Life Project, which is really about pulling a lot of the strands we’ve been doing into a more cohesive thrust.” Sportspeople past and present were at Slaley Hall early to meet their playing partners and size-up the Northumberland resort. Double Olympic Gold medalwinning decathlete, Daley Thompson, an “aspiring” 20-handicapper, said: “We’ve been blessed with the weather again and there are a lot of people here from around the country. At the moment, my golf is poor; it’s at its height and it’s poor. But for me golf ’s a social game and I love coming here and spending some time with my mates.” Snooker legend Willie Thorne, who is part of the British Par Three Championship, added: “Slaley Hall is a wonderful place to come, stay and of course play some golf. Steve’s played in the par three event a couple of times so it’s great to be able to come to the North East and support him and his charity’s work.” Southend United manager Phil Brown was one of the first celebrities to arrive at Slaley Hall and was happy to catch up with his good friend Cram ahead of the event. “Me and Steve 08 NORTHERN GOLFER Steve Harmison Steve Harper, Ryan Taylor and Steve Cram Phil Brown TEEINGOFF Eve Muirhead both have a love of Sunderland Football Club so it’s always good to share that over breakfast. We actually go back a long way; as a schoolboy I ran against Steve in a lot of local cross-country events and it’s great to catch-up and look back at how far we’ve come from the Hebburn/Jarrow rivalry of our youth.” Former Durham and England cricketer Steve Harmison said: “There are a lot of people in orange shirts and I’m sure the course is at it’s absolute best. There are some great names from the past and present here too. What more could you want for a charity golf day? It’s nice to be able to support a fantastic ambassador for the North East and raise money for and awareness of the work that COCO does.” Among other sports stars in attendance were Olympic medallists Zac Purchase, Robbie Grabarz, Eve Murihead and Vicki Adams, footballers Steve Harper, Ryan Taylor, Ritchie Pitt and Micky Horswill, while rugby was represented by Doddie Weir, Andy Nichol and Chris Patterson. Durham cricket coach, Geoff Cook – who suffered a heart attack the day after the event last year – was a welcome returnee. Steve Cram’s Celebrity Golf Day was sponsored by Grosvenor Casinos and supported by Nike, De Vere Slaley Hall, Berghaus, Potts Printers and Desert Springs Golf Resort. For more on COCO’s work visit www.coco.org.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 09 TEEINGOFF Rules night The Northumberland Club will be the venue for one of England Golf’s County Rules Schools this year. Successful delegates qualify as county referees and can assist at county tournaments. Toby Thorne, England Golf championship manager said: “This is the first time we have taken an England Golf County Rules School to the far north of the country - following a request from the Northumberland Ladies County Golf Association.” The County Rules Schools are open to all members of golf clubs affiliated to England Golf. The school will be at The Northumberland Golf Club in High Gosforth Park on Monday August 11 and 22.The fee for attending is £50, which includes tuition, lunches, teas and coffees on both days. More details at www.englandgolf.org/rulesschool New leadership at Roseberry Roseberry Grange community golf course begins a new chapter this month - after an AGM vote led to a shake up of the club’s leadership. Former assistant secretary Bernard Lee will succeed outgoingsecretary Ray Mcdermott; while Ray Clifford will fill Lee’s former post. Retiring chairman/director Clive Rutter will be succeeded by the club’s head greenkeeper Jason Storey. Jason said: “I would like to thank Clive and Ray for all their hard work over the last three years. We intend to carry on improving the facility, and with the continued help and support of staff, members, volunteers and LEDA Golf I am sure we will be successful.” 10 NORTHERN GOLFER William Kiely, managing director at Northumbrian Hills Burgham reaches four the stars Luxury development set to turn a Northumberland golf club and surrounds into a holiday resort A ward-winning Burgham Park Golf Club is developing a four-star holiday resort with building work due to take place this month. The luxury development, Northumbrian Hills, includes 50 stone built cottages, a pavilion, restaurants, bars, a spa and a golf academy. It is situated on Burgham Park estate in Northumberland. Owner of Burgham Park, William Kiely, said: “We’re delighted to have been finally given the green light for Northumbrian Hills. This has been years in the making, so to see our first holiday homes getting built in the near future will be fantastic. “It is in a perfect location for golf enthusiasts but with Northumberland having so much to offer should appeal to a much wider audience.” Burgham Park Golf Club has been in operation for over 20 years. The 18-hole golf course was designed by former Ryder Cup captain Mark James and has played host to several PGA North Region Championships. Kiely continued: “We are very proud of the course, which is one of the best in the North East, and believe Northumbrian Hills will be a great addition to our existing offering. “The first stage is to build the threebedroom stone holiday cottages. Each cottage will provide 107sqm spread over two floors and comes with a balcony as standard. These will be situated between the 10th and 18th holes. “We are also very aware of our carbon footprint so have put measures in place to ensure we are doing our best to care for the environment. We have air source heat pumps for the under-floor heating which can reduce energy consumption by 50%. We also offer buyers the option to have solar power for their property. “The holiday home site itself offers breathtaking views of the Northumberland countryside and as it is so close to the golf course, clubhouse and restaurant, there’s plenty to do on your doorstep as well as exploring the Northumberland coastline and countryside. “Once the first 50 plots have been sold, the next phase is to start working on the two-storey pavilion which will provide homeowners with a spa, swimming pool, bars, restaurants and much more to really get you into that relaxed frame of mind. “The final stage will be the creation of a world-class golf academy with teaching bays and a driving range along with other sports facilities.” House prices start from £235,000, for more information visit www.northumbrianhills.com A New Luxury HolidAy Home Development in the heArt of northumberlAnd Northumbrian Hills is an exclusive four-star development consisting of holiday cottages, pavilion and leisure facilities set within the Burgham Park championship golf course, which is nestled between Morpeth and Alnwick. 50 three bedroom stone holiday cottages in a village setting are currently available for sale to people looking for a holiday home in Northumberland with easy access to the coast and countryside. Each stone cottage provides 107sq.m (1150sq.ft) of internal floor space spread over two floors with a balcony offering breathtaking, panoramic views. Andrew Coulson [email protected] Tel 01434 600146 Mobile 07834585375 Stephen McOwan [email protected] Tel 01434 632404 Mobile 07736270505 Northumbrian Hills, Burgham Park, nr Felton, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE65 9QP. www.northumbrianhills.com Image Credit - Richard Hannam TEEINGOFF On a Rowl Prudhoe’s Thomas Rowland continues his excellent run of form T homas Rowland has been making a big noise since he arrived back in the UK earlier this summer. The 21-year-old, who is studying at the University of North Carolina in the US, picked up the Northumberland County Strokeplay title in June. Since then he has played in the St Andrews Links Trophy, just missing out on the playoff – having closed the four round event with a 65 at The Old Course. “The final round at St Andrews is definitely one of the best rounds of my career so far,” Thomas explained. “I hit the ball really well and was hardly outside of 15ft for birdie all day. When I was standing on the 16th tee and saw my name at the top of the leaderboard I knew I had a chance. I still had the toughest hole on the course, the 17th, to play. I hit a great drive down the right-hand side and a great shot in to about 10ft. I was really happy to make a par under that pressure. Then I hit a three wood and lob wedge to the last and rolled my putt in, with a little fist pump, and thought I’d done enough.” Thomas missed out on the playoff for the title by a single shot, Grant Forrest from Craigelaw beating Bradley Neil (who went on to win the British Amateur Championship) in extra time. From there, Thomas went to the Northumberland Club to compete in the single-round Regional Qualifying sprint for the Open Championship. Thomas Rowland His two under-par 70 was good enough to make it through to Final Qualifying at Gailes Links in Glasgow. In the Brabazon Trophy, held at Seaton Carew, Thomas finished in a tie for 36th ( four over-par) but was happy with his game. “I’ve had a great run of form so far this season. The Brabazon was nice because I was able to stay at home and travel there everyday. I hit the ball well at Seaton, I just had a little bit of bad luck [losing two balls] and the putter wasn’t as hot as it has been. “I’ve still got a lot of big events to play in and I hope to have some more big performances in the likes of the English Amateur and the European Championships at St Andrews.” A JOY TO PLAY... SALTBURN GOLF CLUB SUMMER SPECIAL £16 AFTER 12 PM TELEPHONE THE PROFESSIONAL ON 01287 624 653 EXCELLENT JAMES BRAID DESIGNED COURSE VISITORS & SOCIETIES ALWAYS WELCOME SOCIETY OFFER £20 PP INCLUDING LUNCH UNTIL AUG 31ST VISIT WWW.SALTBURNGOLF.CO.UK SALTBURN GOLF CLUB, HOB HILL, SALTBURN BY THE SEA, CLEVELAND, TS12 1NJ 12 NORTHERN GOLFER TEEINGOFF Doug McClelland (centre) with South Shields captain Malcolm McGuire (left) and club president Alan Bage (right) in front of the plaque Tribute to a trailblazer Club honours a golfer who put the region on the map with his performances in the 70s S outh Shields has paid tribute to one of its most famous sons Doug McClelland, by unveiling a special clubhouse plaque to mark his achievements. Doug was something of a trailblazer for the North East when he turned professional at the age of 19 just three years after taking up the game. Newcastle-born Dave Thomas had won several times worldwide in the 1960s, but when Doug took the plunge the region had been bereft of any sort of international professional victory for several years. He won the 1973 Dutch Open and was joint 14th in the Open at Troon and there were other good performances with runners-up spots in the British Matchplay, and the Zambian, Lusaka and New Zealand Opens. In 1977, he was just £153 short of automatically making the Ryder Cup team. Tongue in cheek, he offered to pay the difference himself but, unfortunately, the Ryder Cup committee declined, and rubbed salt in the wound by naming Neil Coles, who was behind Doug in the money list, as one of their picks. By then he was beginning to think his career lay in another direction and in 1978, he joined Laleham as club professional and went on to win the Southern Professional Championship in 1981 and the following year won the Sunningdale Foursomes, ironically with Neil Coles. Married to Suzi, an American girl, he spent some time in the US where he discovered how successful the big discount stores could be and the Doug McClelland Golf superstore dream was born. He now owns and runs the largest golf superstore in Europe, at Silvemere in Surrey and is also long-term coach to the HRH Prince Andrew, the Duke of York. Doug, who was made an honorary member of the club in 1974, officially unveiled the plaque in the newly-revamped South Shields clubhouse in front of a gathering of family, friends and club members. “It’s a great honour and I hope to be back in the North East a bit more often from now on to visit the club which has so many memories for me,” he said. An interview with Doug will appear in next month’s magazine. C E N T U R I O N P A R K GREEN FEES Monday-Sunday - £12 round Monday - Sunday 4 Ball £40.00 Twilight - after 4pm £10 round Book online - www.centurionpark.com SOCIETIES BOOK a PARTY of 12 or MORE - 2 go FREE Telephone the Pro Shop on 0191 2624231 DRIVING RANGE OPEN 7 DAYS 9am - 9pm Discount cards available save £££’s MEMBERSHIPS Available telephone the Secretary on 0191 2621973 After your round relax and enjoy a drink in Happy Gilmores (Live sport shown) Rheydt Avenue, Wallsend, NE28 8SU www.centurionpark.com Alnmouth Golf Club, Foxton Hall Northumberland’s Hidden Gem LAST MINUTE GOLF BREAK OFFER 25% OFF JULY & AUGUST BOOKINGS Prices from £69, DBB & 2 Rounds of golf Quote: NGOLF Dormy House Golf Breaks 2014 English Tourism 3 Star Accommodation Dinner, Bed and Breakfast with 2 Rounds of Golf FROM £82 PER PERSON 2 Night Break with 3 Rounds of Golf from a choice of Northumberland Golf Courses FROM £195 per person GREAT VALUE – BOOK NOW VISITORS WELCOME THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER GREEN FEES £15 AFTER 3pm • BOOK ONLINE Alnmouth Golf Club, Foxton Hall, Alnmouth, Northumberland, NE66 3BE Tel: 01665 830231 - E: [email protected] www.alnmouthgolfclub.com Follow us on Facebook NORTHERN GOLFER 13 TEEINGOFF Image Credit - John Thomson Photography Tony targets double again Having retained one trophy Tony McLure is after another, plus we round up other county news S erial winner Tony McLure is chasing a successive seniors double. McLure retained the Northumberland County Seniors Championship at Whitley Bay and now heads for Woodhall Spa in September where he will be looking to win the English Senior County Champions title for the second year running. Last year he beat the wind and rain and a clutch of internationals to win the national title and the record six-time winner of the Durham County Championship and a former Lytham Trophy winner went on to finish second in the Welsh Seniors and third in the Scottish Seniors. McLure, who is Durham County’s record cap winner, now plays out of Longhirst Hall and he kept his grip on the Northumberland Seniors trophy by just one shot from former county player Stephen Elliott, who has returned to playing after an 18-year lay off. The Richard Johnson Trophy went to Mike Fleming (7980) and the Tim Bull Cup was won by Colin McWhirter (78-72). ■ Alnmouth made home advantage count in the Northumberland First Division Championship. The team of Jake Storey (73-74), Martin Carss (73-78) and Richard Gandy (76-78) put together a solid Tony McLure with the England Senior Champion of Champions Trophy last year total of 452, five shots clear of Morpeth with Northumberland a shot further back on 458. It ended a long wait with Alnmouth’s last win coming in 1986. Storey edged out Hexham’s Matty Lamb by one shot for the individual prize. In Division Two. Bedlington took the honours and were promoted along with Newcastle United, Alnwick and Warkworth. ■ It’s been a good month for centenary club Eaglescliffe. Sam Donald won the Durham County Boys Championship at Beamish with rounds of 68 and 67 and the club’s scratch team of Sam, Tom Smith and Neil HunterSmith won Teesside Union Team Championship at Middlesbrough with a total of 437. Seaton Carew Golf Club – Home of the Brabazon Trophy 2014 The world’s best amateurs were put to the test on the North-East’s oldest and finest links course where England International Ben Stow held his nerve to become Brabazon champion this summer. Over the years some of the biggest names have taken on the Seaton Carew track and now it is your turn! To book a tee time, visiting party (discounted rates) or membership enquiries contact the club secretary Allison Malham on (01429) 266249 I have fond memories of those days competing at Seaton Carew for the Carris Trophy on one of the few remaining classic links courses Justin Rose, the 2013 US Open champion. The tenth oldest in England and a true championship links to challenge all levels of players Peter Alliss, a renowned golf commentator for the BBC. www.seatoncarewgolfclub.co.uk 14 NORTHERN GOLFER TEEINGOFF DUNSTANBURGH CASTLE GOLF CLUB Scenic 18 hole seaside links course designed by the famous James Braid, adjacent to spectacular Embleton Bay VISITORS & SOCIETIES WELCOME INCLUDING WEEKENDS Summer Special Coffee & bacon roll on arrival, round of golf followed by soup, large filled roll & chips £26 per person Mon-Fri • £30 per person weekends Embleton, Northumberland, NE66 3XQ - Tel: 01665 576562 email: [email protected] - www.dunstanburgh.com Our free draining links course means we hardly ever close due to bad weather! County captain Sandra Fenn with the Yorkshire team and officials celebrating their Northern Counties Matchweek win at The Northumberland Club White Rose blooms Yorkshire ladies overcome defeat to secure Northern Team Championship Y orkshire retained the Northern Counties Ladies Team Championship - but it was close. The holders finished on four points alongside Roses rivals Lancashire and Cheshire in Northern Counties Matchweek at the Northumberland Club - only to take top spot on game points with 34 to Lancashire’s 30.5, with Cheshire third with 30. Yorkshire lost to Lancashire 5-4 in the Roses clash on the Wednesday and Durham, who finished fourth, ran Lancashire close on the final day before losing 5-4. Yorkshire crushed Cumbria 8-1 on the final day, a result that ultimately gave them the title. Durham and Northumberland shared the spoils in their derby clash 4.5-4.5 and both finished with 1.5 points, Durham edging fourth place over Northumberland with 18.5 poins to 16.5 while Cumbria finished bottom on zero points. Yorkshire now go through to defend their national title at Belton Park in September - where they will be seeking their 13th title. Davison wins Seniors Ian Davison won his second Durham County Seniors Championship in three years in spectacular fashion. With his wife Lyn caddying, the Brancepeth player chipped in for an eagle on the last hole at Ravensworth for 74, which saw him tie with Durham City’s Gerry Jones. The eagle saw him play the back nine in level par and win on countback. The best nett winner at Ravensworth was Crook’s George Longthorne with 68. Ian now goes forward to play in the English Seniors County Champion of Champions tournament at Woodhall Spa. Brancepeth will have two players at Woodhall Spa; Durham County Champion Richard Aisbitt will join Ian at England Golf ’s headquaters as he competes in the English County Champions tournament. SEAHAM GOLF CLUB Shrewsbury Street, Seaham, Co. Durham SR7 7RD With 5 par 3’s and 3 par 5’s - a great test of golf Mondays ONLY £12 & Weekends after 2.00 pm ONLY £15 Golf Societies welcome • Great value options for golf + food Contact Andrew, for details 0191 5130837 or [email protected] • www.seahamgolfclub.co.uk 18 holes of woods and parkland with stunning views of the Tyne Valley MEMBERSHIP AND VISITOR OFFERS AT STOCKSFIELD VISITORS On line booking available with rates from just £10 a round plus daily offers SOCIETIES & PARTIES Midweek and Weekend dates still available July to September. Packages tailored to suit your budget! SPECIAL OFFER FOR NORTHERN GOLFER READERS Anyone quoting NGJuly and booking a Society package for ten or more in 2014 will receive a free 4 Ball voucher OPEN COMPETITIONS GENTS 4BBB PAIRS - 19 July LADIES 4-PERSON TEAM - 31 July SENIORS OPEN 666 3-Person - 01 Sept GENTS MIDWEEK OPENS SINGLES STABLEFORD (August 5th, 2nd September) FREE ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP AT MORPETH GOLF CLUB WHEN YOU JOIN STOCKSFIELD! For further details or to book on line go to www.stocksfieldgolfclub.co.uk or phone 01661 843041 (opt1) or email [email protected] Stocksfield Golf Club www.stocksfieldgolfclub.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 15 TEEINGOFF Teen ace and a car for Sam Aaron Markham has started on the hole-in-one road early in his career. The 14-year-old 30-handicapper aced the seventh at Wilton in the club’s junior stableford tournament - and he’s only been playing golf for 12 months. Aaron, who joined Wilton in May, was playing with with his friends Scot Westwick and Cameron Jones. Meanwhile, the high point of the PGA Yorkshire pro-am at Hessle was an ace at the 16th hole by Hornsea four-handicapper Sam Middleton which earned him a £23,000 Volvo car. The hole was playing its full length and measured 211 yards to the pin off the white tees and Sam used a rescue club. Ivan wins the watch Andrew Terry Terry’s ace trumps the rest Hole-in-one at playoff hole gives Andrew Terry his first professional tournament win A The time was right for Seaham’s Ivan Frater when he scored a holein-one during a recent Ramside club competition. The 68-year-old 16-handicapper aced the 172-yard 15th at Ramside and was rewarded with a limitededition BOSS watch as recognition for the achievement. 16 NORTHERN GOLFER ndrew Terry won his first professional tournament in sensational style – with an ace at the second playoff hole. He achieved the feat in the PGA North Assistants’ Challenge at Rockliffe Hall, stunning opponent Richard Robson-Crosby after the pair had tied on two under-par 70 in normal time. Terry admitted he felt sorry for his adversary from Ponteland. “His ball landed safely on the green and I followed with a seven iron shot which bounced twice then disappeared into the cup,” he said. “It’s hard to sink in,” said the 29-year-old who coaches at Rochdale club Marland. “I hit a six iron when we first played the hole which was a bit too long, although I got down in two I dropped down a club in the playoff.” He reeled off an eagle and six birdies in his 70 but three putts on the final green cost him outright victory as Robson-Crosby birdied two of the last three. Terry, who scored his first ace in 2003 as an amateur at Heaton Park in his native Manchester, has no plans to play at a higher level. “This standard will do me,” he said. “It’s great to get my first win under my belt although I’ve won a few pro-ams and other assorted events over the years.” TEEINGOFF Trio Storm to success A practice session with tour pro Graeme Storm gives youngsters a boost for championships T hree Dyke House College golfers are celebrating an impressive treble after a practice session with European Tour pro Graeme Storm. Will Skipp, Jack Ainscough and Cameron Wallaceall enjoyed success in the Durham County Boys Championship at Beamish – and there was also a hole-in-one for Skipp shortly afterwards. Skipp won the Durham Under 14 title, Ainscough claimed the Under 16s title and Wallace finished second in the Under 18s. All three are members of the Dyke House Sport and Technology College’s elite development squad scholarship programme and have bright futures in the sport if they continue to develop as they are. Eaglescliffe Golf Club is also celebrating Skipp’s win, as he is a member there. Skipp lives in Stockton and joined Dyke House earlier this year. Having finished six shots clear at Beamish, he returned to Eaglescliffe the following day and holed his tee shot at the 17th on his way to winning a junior event. Skipp, who has been picked to play for Durham County Boys alongside Ainscough and Wallace, said: “I didn’t even know it had gone in. I couldn’t believe it. It capped a great weekend for me. To win the Champions (left to right): Castle Eden’s Jack Ainscough, Eaglescliffe’s Will Skipp and Seaton Carew’s Cameron Wallace Durham Boys Under 14s title is great and because I’m 12 it means I can try to retain it again next year.” Ainscough, playing out of Castle Eden and Hartlepool Golf Clubs said: “It’s the biggest competition in Durham for Under 16s. We had a practice round with Graeme Storm. He gave us a few tips. I was looking back on the notes he gave us, it obviously helped!” Wallace, a four-handicapper, finished second behind Eaglescliffe’s 18-year-old Sam Donald in the main championship to give the Stockton club more reason to celebrate. The 15-year-old from Seaton Carew said: “It’s been a good year so far and I just want to keep going. I am really pleased.” Graeme Storm: Page 39 MEMBERSHIPS TO MEET YOUR NEEDS, YOUR LIFESTYLE AND YOUR BUDGET Morpeth offers you: • A mature recognised 18 hole course • 4 hole practice academy • Dry/grass driving range • 2 putting greens • A chipping green with bunkers • 2 PGA Professionals • Excellent Catering and Bar • Subsidised Green Fees at 11 other local clubs, and even the opportunity to earn 2.5% cash-back on your weekly food and fuel NO OTHER CLUB IN THE NORTH EAST OFFERS YOU ALL THIS AND MORE! New for this season ‘LIFESTYLE MEMBERSHIP’ £150 +£10 per round CALL 01670 504942 NOW The Clubhouse, Loansdean, Morpeth Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Northumberland NE61 2BT Tel: 01670 504942 Pro Shop: 01670 515675 www.morpethgolf.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 17 COURSEREVIEW Have your sa y Lo northe g on to rngolfe r.co.uk Bell of the ball Paul Corney travels to the heart of Northumberland and discovers a course with many fine attributes N estling in the heart of the Northumberland National Park, Bellingham Golf Club has a long, distinguished history and is proud of its heritage as one of the county’s oldest courses. Situated in the picturesque North Tyne valley between Hadrian’s Wall and the Scottish Border, this 18-hole par 70 parkland course offers spectacular views extending up the valley towards the mighty Border Forest Park and Europe’s largest artificial lake at Kielder. It is understandable why visitors return regularly, the course is presented well and great fun to play, the greens are excellent and the hospitality is second to none. 18 NORTHERN GOLFER Established in 1893 and originally nine holes, Bellingham was extended a number of years ago to 18 holes and has now matured into a very fine test of golf. In addition to the course extension, the club has a six-bay floodlit covered driving range which is open all day to both members and the general public. The first six holes are not long and played sensibly, can be the making of a really good score. The pick of the bunch is the short 120 yard fourth, named ‘Button’s Tumble’ and is a cracker of a par three. Played steeply downhill to a small saucer-shaped green, any shot over the green or to the right will find the out of bounds fence and any shot short or to the left will leave a devilish chip to try and save par. The par five eighth is the longest hole on the course. At over 570 yards, only the biggest of hitters will get anywhere near the green in two. There is a pond on the left and a fairway bunker to the right 135 yards from the green to steer clear of, but a well-placed second shot should leave a pitch of about 120 yards into one of the longest greens on the course. The back nine features the signature hole, the 12th (see factfile) and what can you say about the 15th? This par four is as tough as it gets. All uphill for the tee-shot and then the fairway swings downhill to the left and then right towards the green. With trees, gorse and heather everywhere, COURSEREVIEW FACT FILE CONTACT Bellingham Golf Club Boggle Hole, Bellingham, Northumberland NE48 2DT Tel 01434 220 530 (Club Secretary) Tel 01434 220 152 (Clubhouse) Web www.bellinghamgolfclub.com Email [email protected] GREEN FEES Mon–Fri (adult) £25 (unlimited holes subject to availability) Sat–Sun (adult) £30 (unlimited holes subject to availability) Juniors – £8 a round Buggies £15 a round, £24 a day On June 28 2012, the earth bridge joining the 18th green to the Clubhouse was destroyed in the floods which hit Tynedale and Tyneside, leaving members with a lengthy detour at the end of every game. On the first anniversary of the destruction of the original bridge and following the opening of the new bridge, members and friends from clubs all over the North East and Scotland came together for a special event, raising in excess of £3,000 to help towards the building costs TOTAL DISTANCE White tees – 6,093 yards Yellow tees – 5,902 yards Red tees – 5,190 yards FEATURES 18 holes of parkland/heathland golf Excellent clubhouse open to the public All day catering Putting green Floodlit covered driving range Ample car parking Sky TV Well stocked bar Memberships available – all categories this hole certainly deserves its stroke index of one and plays all of its 406 yards - a bogey at this one is no disgrace. The final hole at Bellingham aptly named ‘Boggle Hole’ is very awkward. At 374 yards this par four has a severely sloping right to left fairway towards trees, two ravines to play across, the clubhouse and out of bounds to contend with and a very tricky plateau green. The standard scratch at Bellingham is 70 and if you play the course anywhere near to your handicap, it’s a job well done in beautiful surroundings. CADDY’S TIP Although only 6,093 yards from the medal tees, this gem of a golf course has a teasing mixture of memorable par threes, long par fives and a collection of tricky par fours. Well placed tee shots are a must SIGNATURE HOLE The 12th hole is a real beauty. Named the ‘Dormouse’ this par four maybe only 347 yards but the drive has to be in the centre of the fairway to leave a shortish iron to a narrow green protected by a stream at the front. With thick rough right and trees left, a wayward tee-shot can be costly PAUL CORNEY’S VERDICT Over the years, Bellingham Golf Club has built up a reputation as being one of the friendliest clubs in the area, where everyone is made welcome and the food is always excellent NORTHERN GOLFER 19 TEEINGOFF Belford recruits Belford Golf Club has continued to ring the changes this summer. The club has appointed greenkeeper Will Statton, who has 15 years experience behind him, and is already making a big difference to the condition of the course. The club has also invested more than £3,000 in new equipment; and has appointed three new members of staff: Carly Clark, Emma Bayne and Tiffany Clark. The clubhouse has also been getting a facelift ahead of an open day – which includes free golf - date to be confirmed. More information at www.belfordgolfclub.com or tel 01668 213 232. Worth a Trip Two North East resorts are celebrating after picking up TripAdvisor Certificates of Excellence in June D e Vere Slaley Hall in Northumberland and Hall Garth Hotel, Darlington have won Trip Advisor awards, which are based on the quality and quantity of reviews posted on the review website over the past 12 months. The awards place the resorts’ among the best in the UK, with just the top 10% of venues recognised. Keith Pickard, group director of golf for De Vere said: “It is very pleasing to see Slaley receive such a prestigious award, and this underlines the resort’s position among the world’s leading 10% of golfing venues. It is testament to the incredible work of the team at the resort, as these reviews are based on the full golfing experience, and we take pride in providing the very finest experience for every visitor and guest.” Pam Mooney, general manager at Hall Garth said: “Winning the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence is a true source of pride for the entire team at Hall Garth and we’d like to thank all of our past guests who took the time to complete a review on Trip Advisor.” Bellingham Golf Club Riverdale Hall Hotel COUNTRY HOUSE & RESTAURANT Summer/Autumn Play and Stay Special Overnight stay including dinner in our award winning restaurant and use of the swimming pool Superior south facing room £89/£79 per person dinner, bed & breakfast and 18 holes at Bellingham Golf Club After your round of golf at Bellingham why not join us for lunch main courses from only £8.90, Sunday lunch from £8.50 Golfing Parties catered for Tel: 01434 220254 • email: [email protected] www.riverdalehallhotel.co.uk • www.bellinghamgolfclub.com 20 NORTHERN GOLFER Parties welcome seven days a week Online Special Green Fees for July Mon - Fri £20 round per player Sat & Sun £25 round per player Discounts for bookings of 8 or more Buggies and catering available 2014 Opens - enter now! Follow the link on our website to our Open Competitions and choose from Seniors 4BBB Stableford (3rd Sept), Mixed Greensomes (14th Sept), Ladies three Player Team (8th Aug), Men’s 4BBB Stableford (10th Aug). CONGU Handicaps required. Telephone 01434 220530 or email [email protected] Bellingham Golf Club, Boggle Hole, Bellingham, NE48 2DT www.bellinghamgolfclub.com TEEINGOFF Ami Storey (left) with county captain Mayrs Howie MASSIVE CLEARANCE SALE Due to re-location, unrepeatable prices on shoes, hardware, clothing etc Call in now and pick up a bargain! NOW Best of British Ami Storey finished as the top Great Britain player in the World University Golf Championships at Crans-sur-Sierre in Switzerland. The Northumbria University student from Ponteland, and winner of this year’s Northumberland County Ladies Championship for the fourth time, as well as the British Universities title, finished 23rd with rounds of 71, 74 and 79. The GB women’s team took 10th place, with Spain picking up the trophy. Unit 37, Royal Quays Outlet Centre, North Shields, NE29 6DW Tel: 0191 2581598 The men’s team also finished 10th - Spain winning again - and Ami’s Northumbria University teammate Andrew Wilson (Darlington) was joint 36th with rounds of 79, 72 and 74. Ami’s first round 71 contained five birdies, the highlight being a 25 foot downhill double breaker for two at the tricky island green par three 13th. “I really enjoyed the course and thought it was a very good test of golf,” Ami said. NEW Unit 52, Royal Quays Outlet Centre, North Shields, NE29 6DW Tel: 0191 2581598 Wilton Golf Club 18-hole Parkland Course Situated close to the A19 it is ideally located for visitors from the north and south Changing Lives Golfers from across the region took part in the tenth annual Changing Lives Golf Day at the City of Newcastle Golf Club in June. Eighteen companies took part, raising more than £3,000 on the day. The money will go towards the charity’s employment service, which supports vulnerable people to find a job. Changing Lives chief executive Stephen Bell OBE said: “We’re thrilled with the amount that was raised at the charity golf day and we’d like to say a huge thanks to all of the companies involved for their support. It’s only through kindness and support like this that we are able to continue to help people.” Willard Wright, captain of the winning team Walter Wright added: “We were delighted to once again be able to support Changing Lives, which we now do every year, in their efforts to carry out important work protecting the most vulnerable members of our society. “It is Changing Lives who deserve to be congratulated.” Next year’s golf day takes place on Monday June 8. To enter a team and to find out more, contact Val Nevin, email [email protected] or tel 0191 256 2913. For more information visit www.changing-lives.org.uk MEMBERSHIP OFFER Full Membership £620 pa Pro Rata Fees now available £450 Payment Plans available Junior Fees from £35.00 Twilight Golf after 5pm £14.00 or £10.00 with a member. Societies welcome with packages starting from £20 per person 10% DISCOUNT VOUCHER PRESENT THIS ADVERT TO RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT For more information, please contact the Secretary, Claire Harvey on 01642 465265 or email [email protected] Wilton Castle, Redcar TS10 4QY • www.wiltongolfclub.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 21 TEEINGOFF Top class coaching Gateshead College relaunches its golf academy G ateshead College is relaunching its golf academy later this year. The college will be offering students the opportunity to increase their learning, improve performance and develop their golfing skills. The coaching programme will be structured around the individual based on their ability and experience - from elite performers to students who are new to the game. Gateshead has entered a partnership with two training facilities where most of the coaching will take place. The outdoor training facility is Matfen Hall Golf Club in Northumberland where the students will enjoy the top class 27-hole golf complex which boasts one of the best golf academies in the region, including a covered driving range, state-of-the-art teaching analysis room, short game area and a nine-hole par 22 NORTHERN GOLFER JJ Vallely will coach students at Matfen Hall three course. The indoor training facility is to be Dynamic Indoor Golf near Gosforth featuring the latest GC2 launch monitors which give accurate feedback when practising, a range of indoor golf courses, top quality indoor chipping and putting areas and a European Tour workshop. The newly-appointed golf coach is to be PGA Professional John Vallely who is based at Matfen Hall. Vallely works extensively with players of all abilities. He is currently an England Golf regional coach and over the past seven years, has worked with numerous county squads (men’s and women’s) and is coach to Newcastle University golf team. Vallely said: “What students will get will be unlimited access to a world class, state of the art fitness facility, training alongside elite athletes from the other academies within Gateshead College. They will have access to top class practice and training facilities both at the college and via the partnerships with Matfen Hall and Dynamic Indoor Golf. They will also be able to play and compete in inter-collegiate golf tournaments and have the possibility to progress to a golf scholarship at Northumbria University.” Students will also have access to qualified sports scientists and a sports physiotherapist. Contact [email protected] TEEINGOFF Final push Matthew Webb Players from across the region progress to Final Qualifying for the Open Championship I t was a good day for a number of the region’s best young players as Regional Qualifying for the Open Championship at Royal Liverpool (July 13-20) took place in 13 locations around the UK and Ireland. At the Northumberland Club, Bedlingtonshire pro Matthew Webb shot a superb round of 66 to lead seven qualifiers. Webb, representing the Golf Foundation, posted a six-under par total – including an eagle at the par-five 10th. Webb said: “My game was really good on the day. I hit the ball really well off the tee and found a lot of fairways. That made finding greens a lot easier – I think I hit 16 greens in regulation, which is superb. “I’ve always enjoyed playing at The Northumberland, having played there a lot as a junior and an amateur. The course was presented superbly, the greens were absolutely true and that always helps with your confidence. I’m now really looking forward to playing in Final Qualifying and hopefully making it through to the Open.” Darlington’s Simon Calvert joined Webb at Final Qualifying having posted a five under-par 67. Three amateurs also made the trip to the last step before the Open Championship: City of Newcastle’s Alex Dixon, who fired a three under-par 69; Hunstanton’s Kit Holmes (70); and Northumberland Strokeplay Champion Thomas Rowland with a two under-par 70. Meanwhile, Ilkley’s James Hepworth led 10 DYNAMIC INDOOR GOLF Are you a keen golfer and leaving school this summer? JOIN OUR GOLF ACADEMY Facilities • Two GC2 simulators (Play courses including Carnoustie, Kingsbarns and Royal Birkdale) • FlightScope • Six bay chipping area • Nine hole putting greens • Get the Tour workshop experience while you wait. Watch our Master club builder work on your equipment Prices from Short game £5 | GC2 £15 | Flightscope £8 Opening Times Mon - Fri: 10.30am - 8.30pm, Sat: 10.30am - 5pm, Sun: 11am - 4pm @dynindoorgolf qualifiers from Moortown in Leeds, including Oulton Hall’s Daniel Gavins. Windermere pro Simon Edwards also qualified, at Clitheroe Golf Club, with a level par 70. And Rockliffe Hall’s James Maw posted a one under-par 69 at Luffenham Heath to make it through. However, Final Qualifying was disappointing as none of the region’s regional qualifiers claimed one of the 12 tickets to Hoylake. There was also disappointment for the players exempt into Final Qualifying - among them Chris Paisley and Graeme Storm who missed out on a place in the season’s third major, For full results visit www.theopen.com/qualification taster days at Matfen Hall Saturday 26th July 9am-1pm Thursday 7th August 4.30pm-8.30pm To register please contact John Vallely, Head Golf Coach Unit 1-4, Brunswick Industrial Estate, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE13 7BA • Tel: 0191 4813590 www.dynamicindoorgolf.com E: [email protected] T: 07899 090 777 NORTHERN GOLFER 23 TEEINGOFF Hexham sells land Cross joins KP Hexham Golf Club Hexham has sold some unused land on their Northumberland course to a developer. The golf club and Tynedale Athletic Association, home of Tynedale Cricket Club, owned adjoining pieces of unused land which could now be developed for new homes by Teesside-based builders Jomast, who also own Wynyard Golf Club. The developers intend to build homes on the 1.9 hectare site. Hexham chairman Roger Tirrell called for people to support the plans. He said the sale will help the club to “invest for the future and provide the local community with much improved sports.” Oliver Cross has joined the The KP Club as the new head of instruction D irector of Golf Ashley Pheasant has appointed Oliver Cross at the Pocklington course KP after reviewing the 24-year-old’s impressive CV. A fully-qualified PGA Professional, Oliver arrives from Brough where he has been working as an assistant after turning pro at 18 and while working at Brough, Oliver achieved a foundation degree in Professional Golf Studies from the University of Birmingham. He’s had some success on the course as well, finishing in the top 10 of the Yorkshire PGA Order of Merit for assistants for all three years of his training programme. Other highlights include a second place finish in The PGA North Region Assistants Championship at Ilkley Golf Club and a third in the PGA Assistant Challenge at Rockliffe Hall. FOLLOW US ON TWITTER - @MGC1908 Oliver Cross Hetton LeGolf Hill Club Middlesbrough Golf Club Brass Castle Lane, Middlesbrough, TS8 9EE VISITING PARTIES Fantastic deals for visiting parties on one of the North’s most prestigious courses. Various options available i.e Coffee and Bacon roll on arrival 18 holes of golf, 2 course evening meal - £35 per person Bespoke packages can be negotiated for small and large parties. SUMMER SPECIAL Valid until 30th Sept 2014 4 Ball for £80.00 (please quote NG when contacting) Telephone Gordon Cattrell, Club Professional, on 01642 311766 • Email: [email protected] Web: www.middlesbroughgolfclub.co.uk 24 NORTHERN GOLFER A SUPERB JONATHAN GAUNT LAYOUT - A TRUE TEST BEST DEALS IN GOLF Membership £1.00 per day Seniors £285 per year 7 Day Membership GREEN FEES £15 per Round, Weekend £17 Seniors £13 per Round, Weekend £15 Weekend Special - 4 Ball £50 Societies & Parties Discounted Rates Website hettongolf.co.uk Telephone 0191 517 3061 or email [email protected] Hetton le Hill Golf Club, Elemore Vale, Easington Lane, DH5 0QT TEEINGOFF 1 DAY LADIES CLEARANCE SALE. UP TO 70% OFF WEDNESDAY 16TH JULY Eureka Golf at Houghton-le-Spring Golf Club The biggest & best Shop for Ladies in the North East Houghton-le-Spring Golf Club, Copt Hill, DH5 8LU For more information tel: 0191 5841198 Former soccer stars turn out for Sir Bobby Boost for Sir Bobby Houghton teamed up with a clutch of former North East football stars to raise £1,000 for their Captain’s Celebrity Shotgun Tournament in aid of The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation. The Durham club was lucky with the weather and the Houghton course was in great condition as no fewer than 19 celebrities playing alongside 57 Houghton members who had played in a qualifier at an earlier date. The celebrities included former Newcastle, Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Darlington, and Hartlepool footballers as well as referees George Courtney and Mark Clattenburg. The tournament took place thanks to the assistance of Sunderland’s Micky Horswill and Newcastle’s Alan Shoulder. www.eurekagolf.co.uk Ladies & Girls 4 Week Trial Membership Only £30 - includes 3 Lessons Tel 0191 5841198 opt 2 for more information Supported by Golf England Visitors & Societies always welcome Houghton le Spring Golf Club Copt Hill, Houghton le Spring, DH5 8LU Bed & Breakfast ‘The Friendliest Club on the Coast…..’ Looking the part: Richmond’s juniors with (left to right): Andrew Robinson, Bradley Rowntree (assistant professional), Richie Bastow (junior coordinator), Bruce Tate (club captain) and John Broderick Well dressed Richmond’s junior section are all sporting new shirts thanks to two local businesses. The Yorkshire club’s thriving junior section, which is made up of 35 boys and girls aged six-18, have all been awarded free polo tops due to sponsorship from Print Demon Systems and Richmond Garage Services while Castle Walk Sports in Richmond also embroidered and printed the shirts. John Broderick of Print Demon Book your Autumn Play & Stay 1 NIGHT & 1 DAY’S UNLIMITED GOLF* Systems and Andrew Robinson of Richmond Garage Services met the juniors to see what their sponsorship had contributed and John said: “Having both my sons involved with the junior section and my eldest, Andrew as junior captain this year, I was more than happy to offer my support.” For more information on junior golf at Richmond (Yorks) Golf Club visit www.richmondyorksgolfclub.co.uk or contact Richie Bastow, junior coordinator, tel 07411 636 765 £49 p.p. Golf Coast Passport with Bed & Breakfast from, 2 NIGHTS, 3 ROUNDS OF GOLF, FROM 5 COURSES* £116 p.p. Bed & Breakfast with unlimited golf * Facilities include, two bedrooms (max 4 guests) lounge with stunning views of the course & North Sea, a fully equipped kitchen , bathroom, parking, full use of the Clubhouse and a full English Breakfast in our restaurant. Flamborough Head Golf Club For more information call: 01262 850333 LIGHTHOUSE ROAD FLAMBOROUGH YO15 1AR enquiries@flamboroughheadgolfclub.co.uk, www.flamboroughheadgolfclub.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 25 EYEMOUTH GOLF CLUB TEEINGOFF “First choice in Scotland, home of Golf” RYDER CUP SPECIAL Play this spectacular Championship course for just £25.00* Situated just 5 miles into Scotland on the East Coast we are ideally placed for a game and a meal on your way to the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles. For more information go to www.eyemouthgolfclub.co.uk * From 22nd September to 5th October you can play Eyemouth Golf Course for just £25 per round. Hirsel Golf Club One of the UK’s Hidden Gems, recently featured in Golf Monthly’s Top 100 Hidden Gems of UK & Ireland list Come and play the No1 golf course in the Scottish Borders Saturday 26th July - Douglas Home Gents Handicap Open, Entry £12 For all our best Green Fee deals - Check out our online booking facility at: www.hirselgc.co.uk Visitors & Societies welcome Hirsel Golf Club, Coldstream, Kelso Road, Berwickshire, TD12 4NJ TELEPHONE 01890 882678 e: [email protected] David Clark My win was for Martin Morpeth golfer dedicates victory to the memory of his mentor who died last year D avid Clark dedicated his first victory since taking over as Morpeth’s head professional to the memory of his friend and predecessor Martin Jackson. The 36-year-old Clark took it harder than most when Jackson died a year ago. “I had my first golf lesson from Martin at the age of 10 and he sold me my first set of clubs,” said Clark. “I also did my PGA apprenticeship at Morpeth and worked with him for eight years before becoming a freelance golf pro. “He was my boss and he became my friend. Sometimes a golf pro and his assistant can work 10-hour days in the shop together so you either get on with each other or you don’t. “I enjoyed working with Martin, he was a typically straightforward Yorkshireman. He would do anything for you.” Clark took over at Morpeth on October 1 and the Whickham tournament brought his first triumph since late last season. In 26 NORTHERN GOLFER 2012 Clark won eight events in a row on the PGA’s regional professional circuit for the North East and Cumbria. Clark battled through rain and wind to set a tournament record with a four-under 64 in the Hadrian Healthcare Pro-Am at Whickham, finishing three shots clear of the field. He said: “My form was ropey going into the event but concentrating on keeping dry seemed to clear my head of any technical worries. “Instead of fretting about my swing path or anything like that, my only thought was to hit the ball with the middle of the club and that seemed to free my mind.” Just before their pro-am Whickham announced a waiting list for seven-day membership having reached their capacity of 450. It’s a dramatic turnaround for a club which lost 177 members in three seasons a few years back and ran up a six-figure overdraft before successful wholesale changes took effect. PAULCOLLINGWOOD 28 NORTHERN GOLFER PAULCOLLINGWOOD Colly’s aiming for scratch Professional cricket has taken Paul Collingwood to golf courses all over the world and a single figure handicap, despite the late start as he tells Alan Hedley P aul Collingwood has good reason to be thankful to the game of cricket. Colly reached the very top of the game. Ashes triumph, world Twenty 20 success as England captain and an MBE. Not too shabby for a lad from Durham who learned to play the game on “the playing fields of Blackfyne Comprehensive and the Shotley Bridge club.” Durham’s elevation to first class county status afforded him the chance to achieve his cricketing dreams and also provided him with a bonus spin-off...golf. Introduced to the game by his Durham teammates, he quickly became hooked and made his way down to single figures. “I didn’t start playing golf until I was 19,” he said. “It came along when I got my professional cricket contract with Durham. The likes of John Morris and Michael Roseberry and the rest of the guys took their golf clubs with them wherever we were playing and I kind of got dragged into it and I loved it. “As soon as I got on the golf course I loved it. It’s a big release from the tensions of playing professional cricket. “Don’t get me wrong, we’re all very competitive on the golf course, me included, but it is the one thing that takes your mind off the cricket and there are many times the day before Ashes matches myself and likes of Straussy (Andrew Strauss) and the guys have gone out and played golf. “I’m off four at the moment,” he said as we chatted at Slaley Hall where he plays a lot of his golf. He’s also a member of Loch Lomond and plays at Ramside with his Durham teammates. “It’s been a bit frustrating lately because I played for seven months through the winter when I was away. I’ve only spent 22 days at home which is what happens in cricket and I took the golf clubs with me when I went away as you do. That’s one of the fantastic things about cricket, you travel the world and you follow the sun and you also get the chance to play all these beautiful golf courses around the world. “I was nailing it for those seven months, hitting absolute screamers and I probably got down to about three through the winter. Then a month ago I went up to Scotland for the weekend to play a bit and I shanked seven balls in two rounds! “So I’m in recovery mode a bit now and just trying to get back to striking the ball with a bit of conviction and all that sort of stuff. “I play at Slaley Hall as much as I can and they are very good to me and I play at Ramside with it being close to the Riverside and I’m also a member at Loch Lomond, which is my official club. I’d like to play more, but things have been incredibly busy. Loch Lomond is my dream course.” Collingwood’s cricketing success is well documented, but he’s also had his moments on the golf course, one of them not so long ago. “I was in Dubai with Scotland (who he coaches) and we were playing Yas Links in Abu Dhabi an absolutely unbelievably good links course. I was one under going on to the 17th and I thought ‘this is it, I’m going to have my best round here’ and I managed to finish one-over which was slightly disappointing, but we were off the back tees. “That was probably the best round of golf I’ve played although I was one over at St Andrews in the Dunhill Links Championship but, although a wonderful course, it is not that difficult when there isn’t any wind. I’d only had about four hours sleep the night before so that was a bit of an achievement. “I’d love to get down to one or scratch, but I’m not that technically-minded. With the swing that I have, it’s great when it’s on song but when it’s not like it is at the moment... “I’m sure my swing could be changed but it NORTHERN GOLFER 29 PAULCOLLINGWOOD would be a lot of work. I’ve been to Jonathan Lupton at Close House and you have a look at yourself on the video monitor you just think ‘oh no, I don’t think I wanted to see that!’ I have a problem in picking the club up high and I don’t think I could ever do that. “I also think cricketers are quite stiff in the back and we don’t have that kind of flexibility to turn like really good golfers do.” Collingwood has had a phenomenal England career and became England’s most capped ODI cricketer when he surpassed Alec Stewart’s record of 170 ODIs in 2009. His knock of 206 in Adelaide in the 2006–07 Ashes became the first double century by an Englishman on Australian soil for 78 years. In 2010, Colly led England to their first ICC Trophy - the 2010 World Twenty20. He is also a three-time Ashes winner - including England’s series win in Australia in 2010-11 - the first time they won the Ashes down under in 24 years. “My dad started me playing at Shotley Bridge and my brother is still captain there,” said Colly. “I always wanted to play cricket for England. A lot of things had to fall into place for what happened to me. Durham becoming a first class county when I was 16 was a huge stepping stone. The funny thing is, my brother was probably a better player than me when he was 16, but when Durham became a first class county he was working and just missed the boat. “The Ashes wins are something I’ll always remember. Playing against Australia is always the ultimate test, the ultimate competition. It is like the Augusta, the Masters of cricket, if you like, the one that you want to win and when we did in 2010-11 that was probably the ultimate for me. Paul Collingwood in action and below with the County Cricket Championship trophy won by Durham last season “The Twenty20 World Cup was one of proudest moments I have had, holding up that trophy was like winning The Open and I don’t think it gets much better than that, hitting the winning runs in that World Cup final and knowing that you’ve won it. “You see and experience success but there are a lot of down periods as well and you have to go through them to become stronger players and learn how to win. “You have to be willing to make mistakes but you also have to learn from them and become better. “You look at golfers like Bubba Watson. “It’s great fun watching someone like him. It’s ridiculous what he does, but it’s great watching him. Don’t get me wrong, I like watching the likes of Luke Donald and players who have a well-coached swing but I do admire the likes of Bubba and Jim Furyk because the number of times they must have been told ‘you have to change this and do that’ and they just shrugged it off and say ‘no I’m going to do it my way’ and they do and stick to what they know and trust.” Image credit: Andrew Bennison Non-member golf enquires to 01904 413579 ext 5 OR see www.fulfordgolfclub.co.uk for on line bookings and last minute deals Fulford (York) Golf Club - 01904 413579, Heslington Lane, York, YO10 5DY 30 NORTHERN GOLFER GOLFERNEWS ROSEBERRY GRANGE COMMUNITY GOLF CLUB ANOTHER GREAT MEMBERSHIP OFFER! Alex Belt Belting performance Alex Belt takes championship for second time in eight years A lex Belt is hoping to move his game up another notch or two after winning the De Vere PGA North Region Championship at Herons’ Reach for the second time in eight years. Belt, attached to Snainton Golf Centre in North Yorkshire as well as representing De Vere, said: “My back nine was a bit ugly and I started to drop a few shots but I just got on with the job. Overall I did not play that well but I holed a few putts and that’s been the key to my success of late.” Belt, 28, is competing mainly on the EuroPro Tour this year, having already had a top 10 finish. “I also like to mix and match playing in regional and Yorkshire events because I have to earn and I may get a few invitations to play the Challenge Tour. My ultimate objective is the European Tour and I feel I’m going in the right direction with the people around me.” His team comprises Wynyard’s Andrew Nicholson, once a regular competitor in PGA North, who is his coach; Nick Middleton, who works on his mind and putting, and sports psychologist Mark Nesti. It looked like Belt was on his way to victory again when he blitzed the course record at Sandburn Hall with an eight-under-par 64 in the first round of the PGA Yorkshire Masters but Abbeydale’s Gareth Davies, the newly crowned Powerade PGA Assistants Champion came through to beat him in a five-hole playoff. Norton Golf Course 18 hole excellent parkland course Visitors welcome 7 days Just turn up and pay! Norton Golf Course Green fees: Mon to Fri (18 holes) £15 pp Weekends £16 pp 2 Ball Special, Mon - Thurs £25 Blakestone Lane, Norton, Stockton on Tees Telephone 01642 676385 www.nortongolfcourse.co.uk 9 Months for the price of 6 July 1st 2014 - March 31st 2015 Adults - (25-59) £220 Seniors - (60+) £170 Youth - (19 - 24) £120 Juniors 18 and under still only £50 Visitors & Societies always welcome 15 Bay driving range • Function room available for private parties Wacky Wednesdays Golf only £10 round Tel: 0191 3700660 or Email: [email protected] Grange Villa, Chester le Street, DH2 3NF www.roseberrygrangecommunitygolfclub.co.uk LEDA GOLF DISCOUNT Roseberry Grange Golf Club Tel 0191 3701757 ELECTRIC TROLLEY SHOWROOM PREMIUM POWAKADDY & HILL BILLY SERVICE & REPAIR CENTRE IN STOCK THE NEW POWAKADDY FREEWAY FW3, FW5 & FW7 RANGE WITH THE PLUG AND PLAY TECHNOLOGY FREE ACCESSORY WITH EVERY GOLFSTREAM ELECTRIC TROLLEY ALL BATTERIES IN STOCK INCLUDING LITHIUM 18 OR 36 HOLE MID SEASON SALE UP TO 50% (SELECTED LINES) TRY BEFORE YOU BUY ON OUR 15 BAY DRIVING RANGE! GREAT DEALS ON IRONS, WOODS, PUTTERS, BAGS & SHOES! CALL IN AND PICK UP A BARGAIN! ALWAYS A FRIENDLY WELCOME AT LEDA GOLF Open 7 days 9am - 4pm Roseberry Grange Golf Club, Chester le Street, DH2 3NF Find us on facebook www.facebook.com/ledagolf NORTHERN GOLFER 31 GOLFERNEWS James shows his support Former Ryder Cup player and captain Mark James joined golfers from the Disabled Golf Association on the first tee at Rudding Park. James, who played in seven Ryder Cups and was nonplaying captain in 1999 at Brookline, Massachusetts, posed for photographs and signed autographs with the 14 players ahead of the fifth order of merit event of the season in Harrogate. He said: “It was great to meet all the players. I was lucky enough to recover from testicular cancer in 2001 and understand how difficult it can be living with illness and although for only a short time, a certain amount of disability. “When the opportunity to help the Disabled Golf Association came about, I jumped at it. DGA is doing great work around the country in making golf possible for people overcoming their disabilities. To be able to show the power of the human mind in overcoming adversity and encouraging other disabled people to return to, or start playing golf, with all the therapeutic values that it can bring, is something I’m passionate about.” Fourteen players from as far afield as Northamptonshire and the West Midlands, with disabilities including amputees, paraplegic, autistic, MS and stroke survivors headed out onto the course. The winner on the day was George Ridley from Preston with 35 points. Second on countback was Tony O’Brien from Yorkshire; while Brian Parsons from Leicestershire was third. 32 NORTHERN GOLFER Kevin Harmison, third from right Harmison is leading Brit Newbiggin’s Kevin Harmison second in European Championships K evin Harmison was the leading British player at this year’s EDGA European Individual Championships, hosted by the British Amputee & Les Autres Sports Association – just missing out on defending his European crown. The 49-year-old from Newbiggin Golf Club put together rounds of 74 and 79 in the weather-effected event at Belton Woods, Lincolnshire to finish eight shots behind Denmark’s Stefan Morkholt in the European event. The one-handicapper, who lost his right leg below the knee following an accident at work and plays with a foamcovered carbon fibre leg with a built-in shock absorber, did however cement his place as the leading British player (the event has become the biggest in the British disabled golf calendar following the demise of the British Disabled Open). Following the event, Harmison said: “I’m over the moon with the result. There were a lot of very good golfers playing in the event, from all over Europe, and to finish second is a great result for me. I played with Johan Kammerstad on the final day, he’s a superb player and having watched him play over the years I’m really happy that I managed to finish ahead of him.” The event was scheduled to be played over three rounds, but heavy rain meant only 36-holes were possible. Harmison added: “The first round was played in great conditions and I managed to shoot a one-over par 74 – despite having a double bogey at the last. I was gutted to do that on a par five and be pushed back in a tie for second. “On the third day [playing the second round], it was really windy – gusting up to 30mph and was incredibly tough. My six over-par 79 was actually a really good score on the day.” Harmison has seen a steady improvement in his game over the last couple of years, thanks to competing for his club in the weekly scratch league. He added: “What’s really helped me improve in the last couple of years is playing in the Newcastle and District League for Newbiggin. Playing third man in the team, I can be playing against some of the best players in the county and it really has helped me develop my game.” PROFILE PRO -FILE MARK RIDLEY We catch up with South Moor pro Mark Ridley Daily Play from £10 Open to Non-Members, Groups and Societies Golf Breaks starting at £89 Flood Lit Driving Range Food and Drink Available All Day AGE: 47 TURNED PRO: 39 H/CAP: +2 HOME CLUB: South Moor Golf Club BIGGEST WIN TO DATE: 16 wins as a professional, including two Cumbria Masters wins. As an amateur: Northumberland County Championship; Northumberland Boys’ County Championship and back-to-back inter-County Foursomes wins with John Kennedy (representing Consett) THIS SEASON: “I got off to a good start, winning the NE/ NW PGA Andalucia Pro Am. I also won the Maryport pro am and I’ve had a couple of other second and third place finishes as well. “I’ve started to play in the North Region events this year again, after not playing them the last couple of seasons. Hopefully I can pick up a couple more wins. My golf’s been pretty steady, it could do with being a little bit sharper but I’m pretty happy with my performances so far. I do a lot of coaching with the juniors at South Moor too; I’ve been doing it for a few years now and we have 15-20 kids turning up every week. It’s great to help them get into the game and see them progress.” GETTING INTO THE GAME: “I picked up a club for the first time as a 12-year-old. My dad played at Beamish Golf Club and got me to go down there with him one day and I’ve been hooked since. The first round I ever played I shot 123, from there I progressed through the juniors at Beamish and broke through into the county setup as a teenager. I won the Boys’ County Championship at 18 at Beamish and then got down to scratch at 25 – around the time I won the Club Championship at Beamish.” AIMS/FUTURE: “I’m 48 in September and as long as I stay fit, it would be nice to have a go at getting out onto the European Seniors Tour when I’m 50. I’d like to be able to look back and say I gave it my best shot and have no regrets. You only live once after all.” INTERESTING FACT: Mark turned pro at 39, having worked in a print factory for 20 years. Belford Golf Club, South Road, Belford, NE70 7DP 01668 213232 or via email [email protected] www.belfordgolfclub.com A Great Deal for Great Golf in a Great Place WHICKHAM GOLF CLUB Summer of Affordable Golf VISITOR SUMMER GREEN FEES Effective 1st May until October 31st 2014 Monday Summer Special £15pp or 4 Ball for only £50 Book online & Save up to 40% Twilight Golf (from 4.00pm) only £10 OPEN COMPETITIONS 2014 JULY Tuesday 15th SENIOR (Over 60’s) OPEN 4BBB Stableford £16 AUG Sunday 17th MIXED OPEN Greensome Stableford £16 SEPT Tuesday 2nd SENIOR (Over 60’s) OPEN 4BBB Stableford £16 Thursday 4th LADIES TEAM OPEN Team of 4 Stableford £32 Monday 29th MEN’S (Over 55’s) Texas Scramble Team of 4 £32 Customised Golf Days, pick your date, call us for details and book yours ! We have five, 7 Day Membership places available Hurry! Don’t Miss your chance to join now! 5 and 6 Day Membership available. Hollinside Park, Fellside Road Whickham Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE16 5BA Tel: 0191 488 1576 Web: www.whickhamgolfclub.co.uk NORTHERN GOLFER 33 Golf in the Scottish Borders Traditional country inn ideally situated for playing MINTO, THE HIRSEL, KELSO, HAWICK plus many more. 12 en-suite bedrooms with tv, wi-fi, tea/coffee making facililties, Sky tv. Restaurant and bar serving excellent home cooked food and cask ales (good pub guide) The Auld Cross Keys Inn B&B only £35.00 pp sharing twin room or £45.00 pp single Tel: Karen or Dave on 01450 870305 [email protected] www.crosskeysenholm.co.uk Five Star Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence GREENWATCH GREEN WATCH With SIMON OLVER, course manager at Percy Wood The Green, Denholm, Scottish Borders, TD9 8NU THE BEST OF BORDERS GOLF Peebles Golf Club Peebles, EH45 8EU www.peeblesgolfclub.com SUMMER 4 BALL OFFER ONLY £90.00 Valid until 30th September 2014 Call Bill or Willie on 01721 720197 Please Quote Northern Golfer. T&c’s apply. Subject to availability. Societies and Outings most welcome. A CUT ABOVE BEAMISH PARK GOLF CLUB Providing Golfing Excellence for over 100 Years “Be Challenged and Enjoy the Experience” Awesome Driving Experience Visitors & Societies always welcome Green fees from £15.00 Membership from £240 For further details telephone the Professional Chris Cole on 0191 370 1984 Stanley, County Durham, DH9 ORH Email: [email protected] • www.beamishgolf.co.uk 34 NORTHERN GOLFER This month, Simon Olver covers cutting the grass (it’s not as simple as it sounds!) When it comes to life as a greenkeeper, there’s a lot more to it than just cutting the grass! That being said, it does take up a big portion of our time during the height of the season. Mowing, and the way it’s carried out, can directly affect the success of any golf course. Generally, this is carried out early in the day – to present the course at its best for the morning players. This can mean having to survive on very little sleep during the summer months - starting work as early as 4am. Height and quality of cut are incredibly important, and an area of huge discussion between golfers, particularly the height of cut on the putting surfaces. This affects the difficulty and playability of any course; lower mowing creates faster running surfaces, which are more difficult to read. Finding a fair speed, which caters for all standards of golfers is essential in ensuring everyone enjoys their round from low-handicapper to beginner. A top priority for every head greenkeeper or course manager is being proactive when it comes to mowing - readily adjusting your practices according to conditions ensures turf quality and performance are maintained. Precision mowing can’t be performed with blunt or badly adjusted cutting units as this has the potential to tear or bruise grass leaves. Doing so effects the appearance and performance of playing surfaces, but more importantly – damages plant health and allows destructive diseases to penetrate inside the plant through susceptible weak and stressed areas and cause long-lasting damage. NEXT MONTH Sustainability and ecology GOLFERNEWS Woodham back on course Ernie Wilson Construction company buys club with plans to reopen next month W oodham Golf and Country Club is set to reopen after being bought by a local building and engineering firm. The course, near Newton Aycliffe, in County Durham, closed last November. The new owners are Hall Construction, a Newton Aycliffe-based firm lead by brothers Stephen and Neville Hall who insist they want to maintain it as a golf and country club. Several former members of staff, including golf professional Ernie Wilson, are already back on board and it’s hoped the club will reopen by August 1. As well as the 18-hole course and other facilities, the site comes with planning permission for 50 executive homes, a new clubhouse and a 75-bedroom hotel with conference and spa facilities. Former owners Washington Developments spent five years securing planning permission for the development and described the economic climate that forced the club into administration as a “bitter blow.” As a builder, Hall Construction is well placed to deliver the scheme but the new owners said it was too soon to say whether the company would pursue the opportunity. It’s believed they have paid around £2m for the par 73 course and the 214 acre (87 hectare) site. It will be the third time Ernie Wilson has returned to the club to take up the position of golf professional. He first worked for owner Stan Roberts between 1993 until 2002 before moving on to the 1 ROUND OF GOLF 1 ROUND OF GOLF 1 ROUND OF GOLF FOR 2 PEOPLE 4 BALL Oakleaf complex. He returned in 2007 to work for Washington Developments until the course closed last year. Now he’s back working for the new management who have exciting plans for the course. “Woodham has been a big part of my life,” said Ernie, “and I am honoured to be the golf professional at this great facility.” Woodham was originally developed and first opened in 1981, designed by the highlyrespected J Hamilton Stutt and has always been a quality layout. £10 £10 £20 £40 CALL 01670 500011 TO BOOK LONGHORSELY, NORTHUMBERLAND, NE65 8XF Tee times available after 1pm only , 7 days per week subject to availability. Book up to 28 days in advance. Valid until 30.9.14. Voucher MUST be presented before play NORTHERN GOLFER 35 GOLFERCOMPETITION win Northern Golfer competitions are also listed on our website www.northerngolfer.co.uk/competitions, alternatively you can enter via email [email protected] (mark the competition name in the subject field) or post your entry to Competitions, Northern Golfer, Unit One, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7AL Enter online Lo northe g on to rngolfe r.co.uk Please include your contact details and telephone number. Closing date July 31 2014 Usual competition rules apply – available on request. Winner will be published in our next edition. WIN MEMBERSHIP AT ENGLAND’S NEWEST CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE Northern Golfer magazine has teamed up with Ramside Hall Hotel and Golf Club, County Durham’s leading golf resort, to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a years’ golf club membership, worth £905. This special prize is on offer to mark the opening of Ramside’s new Cathedral course in Summer 2014. It is the only new 18-hole championship golf course opening in England in 2014 and is part of a £15m leisure development at Ramside’s hotel and golf resort which includes a new health club, spa, gymnasium, swimming pool, 48 additional hotel bedrooms and luxury residential properties. The new 7,200 yard championship golf course has been designed by Gaunt Golf Design. It’s laid out on rolling farmland and across a picturesque undulating valley with spectacular 360 degree views of Durham City, its world famous Norman Cathedral and open countryside. The lucky winner will become a fully subscribed seven-day member at Ramside Hall Hotel and Golf Club with playing privileges on the existing Prince Bishops championship course and the new Cathedral course layout. You’ll also have the opportunity to benefit from the club’s golf academy, indoor swing studio, 16-bay driving range, short game practice zones and luxury locker rooms with sauna, bucket head showers and massage chairs. All you have to do to win this membership prize is correctly answer the question below and send in your answer and details by post or email. Exclusive Northern Golfer Reader Offer If you aren’t lucky enough to win the prize outright, Northern Golfer has managed to negotiate an exclusive deal for readers who still want to join Ramside Hall Hotel and Golf Club. All you have to do is contact Ramside Golf Club, quoting NGRO14, sign up for 12 month’s membership at £905 (no joining fee is applicable) and you will receive over £200 worth of free benefits, including £120 of free driving range balls and a free fourball worth £100 to use with guests. To take advantage of this exclusive offer, email [email protected] or jill. [email protected] or tel 0191 386 9514, quoting NGRO14. Corporate golf memberships are also available for businesses. Find out more about the new Ramside Cathedral Course at: www.ramsidehallhotel.co.uk/golf Ramside Hall Hotel and Golf Club, Carrville, Durham, DH1 1TD HOW TO WIN To win a 12-month golf membership at Ramside Hall Hotel and Golf Club, simply answer the following question correctly. What is the name of the original 18-hole championship golf course at Ramside Golf Club? 1) Cuthbert’s Course 2) Bishop’s Tipple 3) Prince Bishops Course Entries close at midnight on Thursday July 31 2014, and the winner will be picked at random from the correct entries. For full terms and conditions see www.northerngolfer.co.uk 36 NORTHERN GOLFER GOLFERNEWS Course manager Roger Shaw places the first flag on the new Ramside Cathedral course Durham’s new cathedral Region’s and country’s newest championship course at Ramside is open for business R amside Hall has opened its new championship course. Called the Ramside Cathedral course, it’s named in honour of nearby Durham Cathedral – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – which is clearly visible from the third hole, the stretch between the eighth and the 11th and again when playing the 15th and 16th. The 7,200 yard par 72 parkland course has been designed by Jonathan Gaunt, the architect of Ramside’s original 27 holes in 1994, and it’s the only new championship standard 18-hole golf course to open in England this year. There’s two phases to the opening. The first The 16th green of Ramside’s Cathedral course phase took place on July 5 when a loop of nine holes was opened. It means visitors and members can choose from 27 holes, including Ramside’s original Prince Bishops Course. The complete 18-hole course will open in September to help fairways and fescue rough grass to bed in. Architect Jonathan Gaunt said: “Since the first site inspection in 1997 this has been a special project to work on and it is hugely rewarding to see Ramside’s long term vision realised. Not only is the course situated on an exceptional piece of land, it also has views over two iconic landmarks – Durham Cathedral and the Angel of the North.” As well as taking inspiration from one of Britain’s greatest religious buildings, the course has its own ‘Amen Corner’ with holes 12, 13 and 14 inspired by those at Augusta National Golf Club, home of The Masters tournament. Ramside Hall Estates director John Adamson said: “I’m certain the Cathedral Course will further enhance Ramside Hall’s reputation as one of the most desirable golf resorts and leisure destinations in England.” The new golf course is part of a £15m development taking place at Ramside Hall which includes a 47-bedroom expansion of the four-star hotel, 34 executive homes, a new health club, gym, 25-metre pool, spa, restaurant and beauty salon. George Washington Hotel Golf & Spa Green Fee Special New for 2014 From £12.50 per person Early Bird from 7 am - Twilight from 4 pm Visiting Parties Adidas Adizero One TaylorMade Mini SLDR Driver Powakaddy FW3 Electric Trolley Prices from £20 pp Book now! Memberships Play from as little as 68 pence per day! Telephone Jonny Mould on 0191 4178346 or email: [email protected] Check website for green fee specials - www.georgewashington.co.uk Stone Cellar Road, High Usworth, Washington, NE37 1PH NORTHERN GOLFER 37 GOLFERNEWS Golfers on parade Light Dragoons Colonel’s Appeal tops £1m A golf day has added almost £2,000 to funds used to support the families of soldiers killed or wounded in action. North of England armoured regiment the Light Dragoons held the event at Hobson Golf Club. In the past 17 years, the regiment has carried out 19 operational tours of Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan and as a result of these conflict situations, has suffered many casualties. On behalf of the Light Dragoons, organiser of the golf day Ted Cox said: “It was a wonderful day, with everybody taking part thoroughly enjoying themselves. We had 72 golfers taking part in the event and the teams all had a celebrity player. The likes of former Newcastle United players Dave Barton and Mick Martin along with Sunderland’s Ritchie Pitt and Jimmy Montgomery all played and on the day we raised £1,913.” Major General David Rutherford Jones CB (Colonel of the Regiment) said: “The Light Dragoons’ Colonel’s Appeal Fund reached, and indeed exceeded, the original target of £1m (of donated money). This is a Herculean achievement for a comparatively small Regiment. We have not achieved this success (L-R) Colin Brooks, Major (retd) Paddy O’Neill MBE, Ted Cox and Major (retd) Mel Tazey (Regimental secretary) through the services or even advice of professional fundraisers. Rather we have achieved this success because we are a family, team orientated Regiment. “The momentum behind the Colonel’s Appeal has been driven by a strong team of retired Light Dragoons who have worked tirelessly to co-ordinate and encourage the effort. “On behalf of the Regiment, Trustees and all those who have already benefited from the generosity of many, and of those who will benefit in the future, I thank everyone who gave to the Appeal this past three and a half years.” CHESTER-LE-STREET GOLF CLUB Membership available - all categories Please ring the Secretary Colin Henderson for further details Visitors welcome Prices from £18 per round Mon to Fri - £20 weekends Special offer From £12.50 pp Mon to Thurs between 2pm and 4pm Buggies available £20 round Opens 2014 - places still available Thursday 7th August – Junior Open Wednesday 27th August – Ladies AM-AM Open Chester le Street Golf Club, Lumley Park, County Durham, DH3 4NS tel: 0191 388 3218 email:clsgcoffi[email protected] www.clsgolfclub.co.uk 38 NORTHERN GOLFER GRAEMESTORM Coatham Mundeville, Darlington, DL1 3LU Tel: 01325 379710 www.hallgarthdarlington.co.uk The perfect place to enjoy your golf ! New practice facilities and course layout. 12 Months membership only £240 Greenfees Mon-Fri £12.50 - £10 with member and concessions Sat, Sun & Bank Holidays £15 - £12.50 Earlybird before 8am - Twilight after 5pm £10 Weekend 4-ball £50 | Society Packages from £20 2-4-1 GREEN FEE VOUCHER ANYTIME ON PRODUCTION OF THIS ADVERT MY TRIP TO PINEHURST An experience to remember Qualifying to play in a US Open is always a great thing to achieve especially when you don’t get to play in the major championships every year. It was one that I knew would be terribly difficult to make the cut for, especially the way my season has been going so far and, unfortunately, it did turn out to be a step too far for me. It was a great experience though and one I will always remember. Getting to see my name on the leaderboard in a major was awesome even if it was only for nine holes. Pinehurst No 2 turned out to be everything I expected it to be and more. It was really difficult and mind boggling at times but amazing at the same time. I have never seen greens quite like them, undulating with huge run-offs front, back and at the sides, running into large bunkers or ending up 50 yards away. Then it was a knee jerking time trying to pitch back onto the upturned saucer greens that were wickedly quick and firm, just hoping you could get the right contact and spin control to hold the green, never mind getting it close enough to make your par. There were many different ways to get yourself back on to the putting surface, either by chip and running with an 8/9 iron, using a rescue club like a putter or just getting the blade out to try and judge every little hop and bump you might get. Basically all options were possible and you just hoped you chose the right one or they could make you look foolish and clumsy. Martin Kaymer’s performance has to be admired by everyone who is involved in golf. We witnessed four rounds of pure brilliance, blowing the field away and posting a score nobody thought possible. Back in the North East, my congratulations go to the boys of Dyke House School who have performed fantastically well this month. Well done boys, awesome stuff (see page 17). Finally we’re gearing up for the English Seniors Open at my club, Rockliffe Hall, on August Bank Holiday weekend. The course is looking great, everyone’s excited and hopefully the sun will shine too. As featured in this months course review Summer Special Green fees from just £14.00 Numerous membership and ‘Pay and Play’ green fees packages available. Please contact the pro-shop for further details on 01937557864 Scarthingwell Lane - Tadcaster - North Yorkshire - LS24 9PF - 01937 557878 NO JOINING FEE OFFER On ALL membership categories inc. reduced rates for U31’s 3 MONTH TRIAL MEMBERSHIP £125.00 Includes one free golf lesson TWILIGHT MEMBERSHIP £295.00 (Sunday through Friday from 3.30pm, T & C’s apply) COUNTRY MEMBERSHIP £454.00 Must be a member of another club and live more than 20 miles away NORTHERN GOLFER 39 COURSEREVIEW Scarthingwell’s a joy to play Alan Hedley travels to a course he can’t wait to visit again E very now and then a course comes along that you can say it is a genuine pleasure to play. Scarthingwell is just such a course. Situated four miles south of Tadcaster on the edge of the Vale of York, it’s an easy-walking 18-hole parkland lay-out with some excellent holes providing an enjoyable test which leaves you elated rather than drained as you walk off the 18th. It’s become well established since its opening in 1991, gaining a reputation for a friendly welcome, quality food and drink and a course always in good nick. It’s owned and managed by the Pick family who developed the site, opening nine holes in 1991, 40 NORTHERN GOLFER extended it to 18 in 1994 and added a purposebuilt clubhouse with a restaurant, bar and pro shop two years later. This is not a short course at 6,631 yards off the back, but I suppose by modern standards it’s not long either. However, anything around the 6,500 yards mark is enough for most of us. There are no big climbs here, the front nine is never more than undulating and the back nine is flat, but arguably the more difficult with several water hazards. The tree-lined fairways are generous - the rough is not - and there are several dog-legs, including a couple of classic risk and reward holes, some testing par fours and lovely par threes. The hat-trick of par fives are excellent, one of them a bit of a beast. There’s a tough start and a fine finish. The 18th is a cracking hole which is a short par four off the white tees and testing par three off the blues. At 430 yards and a dog-leg left to right with out of bounds, the opening hole demands concentration from the start. The second is a shorter par four but it’s followed by another 430 yarder. The three par threes are all around the 150 yard mark, but they are all quite tricky as you’ll find out at the fourth. The fifth is a real test at 460 yards and as a slight dog-leg and the next is a par five played uphill with an elevated green - as I said a bit of a beast. The best holes are not always the longest holes COURSEREVIEW FACT FILE Have your sa y Lo northe g on to rngolfe r.co.uk as the short par four seventh proves. Just 278 yards it’s risk and reward as there is out of bounds and some cunning bunkers. But it is a birdie chance, as is the straightforward eighth while the ninth is a smashing par three and a candidate for the accolade of signature hole, as is 18 but that honour goes to the 10th (see fact file). There’s lots of water-filled ditches to contend with on the back nine and they will come into play on 11, 12, 13 and 14 if you’re not careful, especially with the tee shot at 11 and approach at 13 which is a very good 438 yard par four and stroke index one. While 14 is a big par five at 580 yards with the ditch right in front of the green. The 15th comes as a bit of relief and a birdie chance but beware of going long. Avoid the ditch again at 16 and it’s another birdie chance. Two good holes to finish, a dog-leg right where you must be left to avoid a blind second, while the 260 yard 18th will tempt a few to have go but there’s out of bounds all the way down the left. Many members consider the hole to be tougher off the blue tees when it is a par three of 189 yards. CONTACT Scarthingwell Golf Course Scarthingwell Lane, Tadcaster North Yorkshire, LS24 9PF Tel 01937 557 878 (clubhouse Kathy Pick/Eileen Moore) 01937 557 864 (professional) Tee time bookings 01937 557 864 www.scarthingwellgolfcourse.co.uk Email ben.burlingham@ scarthingwellgolfcourse.co.uk Scarthingwell has a reputation for looking after its members. There are thriving mens, ladies, seniors and junior sections and the club has been awarded GolfMark status. The clubhouse, which opened in 1996 incorporates the golf shop, run by resident professional Simon Danby, who also offers lessons. There is a comfortable members lounge and bar and on the first floor is the club’s spacious Dintingdale restaurant which derives its name from the site of a local skirmish at the Battle of Towton in 1461 GREEN FEES Mon-Fri before 1pm £20; after 1pm £17 Sat-Sun before 2pm £25; after 2pm £22 TOTAL DISTANCE White tees - 6,631 yards Blue tees - 6,253 yards Red tees - 5,544 yards Orange tees - 4,143 yards FEATURES 18 holes of parkland golf Superb clubhouse and restaurant (open to public) Plenty of car parking Locker rooms and changing facilities Professional’s shop Long game practice area Putting green and chipping green. Single seat buggies available CADDY’S TIP Hit it straight off the tee, stay out to the rough and away from the trees SIGNATURE HOLE The 411 yard par four 10th is a dog-leg left to right with out of bounds left and two ponds guarding the green. The 10th requires requires a brave drive and an even braver second. A great test. ALAN HEDLEY’S VERDICT This is a course people keep wanting to come back to - it’s not difficult to see why NORTHERN GOLFER 41 EUROPRO Tour win for Porteous First professional victory for Garrick and a £10,000 pay day in Shropshire G arrick Porteous claimed a first professional win on the HotelPlanner.com PGA EuroPro Tour when he took the FSC Invitational title. The 24-year-old 2013 British Amateur Champion and Walker Cup player from Morpeth picked up the £10,000 top prize after a playoff at The Astbury in Shropshire. Garrick carded rounds of 66, 68 and 66 to finish the tournament on 10 under-par and standing on the 18th tee he was aware that a birdie was required to tie the clubhouse lead. He coolly put a nine iron over the water to 12 feet and rolled in the putt. However, he still had an anxious wait while the field finished and confirmed a three-man playoff involving Garrick, South African Darryn Lloyd and Rockliffe Hall’s James Maw. The playoff took place on The Astbury’s spectacular par-three 18th and on the first play both Maw and Porteous made par, but Lloyd found a greenside bunker and made bogey. On the second play Maw too found the sand but played out to within feet of the pin. However, Porteous was wellplaced on the green and birdied from 15 feet for the victory. “It is great to get the first pro Garrick Porteous win in,” said Porteous, who won £10,000 a brand new Motocaddy and a Shotsaver range finder. “I got off to a slow start as a pro, missing a few cuts, but coming here and winning feels great and builds up the confidence. “It is always nice to win and I am happy. I will see what happens for the rest of the season, I think I might get some European Tour invites and also play a few more EuroPro events.” The first few months on tour have been a learning curve, adjusting to the travel, jet lag, the heat and humidity and playing with seasoned professionals. He then made his first cut as a professional at the Lyoness Open in Austria, finishing tied 32nd and picking up his first pay cheque. THE PGA EUROPRO TOUR RETURNS TO MOOR ALLERTON GC, LEEDS AUGUST 6-8 FREE ENTRY FOR ALL SPECTATORS 42 NORTHERN GOLFER EUROPRO Moor of the same Yorkshire course prepares for the return of the EuroPro Tour next month F ollowing the success of the Dawson and Sanderson Travel Classic at Longhirst in May, the HotelPlanner. com PGA EuroPro Tour returns to the region in August for the second Clipper Logistics Championship at Moor Allerton Golf Club, Leeds. Last September’s debut event received rave reviews from both players and tournament staff and this year’s tournament will take place August 6-8. The Sky Sports cameras will film the final round action, with some of Europe’s best young pros competing for the £10,000 winner’s prize. Last year Teignmouth man Billy Hemstock beat Pontefract’s Daniel Gavins in a playoff for the title. Daniel Godding, director of operations at the HotelPlanner.com PGA EuroPro Tour, said: “The Tour made its debut at Moor Allerton last year and we were very impressed with every aspect of the tournament there. We are delighted to be able to return to the course - one of the best in the north.” The top five golfers at the end of the season earn Challenge Tour categories for 2015. For a full list of events and results visit www.europrotour.com Daniel Gavins playing Moor Allerton’s 18th in 2013 2013 winner Billy Hemstock Longhirst Hall G O L F C L U B PGA EUROTOUR VENUE - DAWSON COURSE 2014 £15 VISITOR AFTERNOON FROM NOON ANY DAY One of the best courses we’ve played on - EUROPRO PLAYER Superb championship set up - MATCHROOM SPORTS GOLF DIRECTOR Best course in northumberland - LOCAL EUROPRO PLAYER Simply unbelievable - SENIORS OPEN PLAYER LONGHIRST HALL GOLF COURSE, LONGHIRST, MORPETH, NORTHUMBERLAND, NE61 3LL Telephone 01670 791562 or email: [email protected] visit us online at: www.longhirstgolf.co.uk Memberships available right now at less than £10 per week!! NORTHERN GOLFER 43 Third Round Northern Golfer Match Play Pairs This year’s Northern Golfer Match Play Pairs is heating up - with just 32 teams left in the competition. Round three sees 16 games take place across the region - with clubs from Northumberland and Durham well represented. The deadline for round three results is Sunday August 3 and the fourth round draw will be in August’s edition of the magazine. A total of 82 teams set off in this year’s event, playing to win a trip to Portugal to play in the NE/NW PGA pro am event. This year’s semi-finals (Ramside GC) and final (Tyneside GC) will take place in September. 2. Mustafa Gun (12) & Kevin Binney (13) (George Washington) V Colin Marshall (16) & Paul Tindale (11) (Durham City) 6. Shaun Stokoe (15) & Thomas Turner (9) (Consett) V Tony Rudd (6) & Hugh Thompson (10) (Durham City) 3. Peter Gallagher (11) & Neil Walmsley (18) (Durham City) V Darren Smith (9) & Nigel Swanson (14) (Matfen Hall/ Bedlingtonshire) 7. Craig Fryer (14) & Michael McSkelly (8) (South Moor) V Paul McVittie (12) & Philip Ward (12) (Brampton) 1. Len Eyre (6) & Alan Scambler (9) (Magdalene Fields) V John Barnes (19) & David Wailes (4) (Bedlingtonshire) 5. Jeff Shield (17) & Steve Devon (10) (Durham City) V David Hornsey (5) & Barry Cranston) (10) (Slaley Hall/Consett) 4. Howard Wooton (11) & Colin Grieve (8) (Goswick) V Steve Slater (2) & Gary Wright (12) (City of Newcastle/Backworth) 13.David Gray (15) & Mark Parry (13) (Saltburn/ Cleveland) V Gary Bell (9) & John Johnston (4) (Middlesbrough Municiple) 10.Rory O’Connor (2) & Sam Oliver (4) (Close House/ Bedlingtonshire) V Bryan Davison (5) & Michael Johnson (3) (Consett) 11.Anthony Lawlor (8) & Stu Vickery (16) (Chester Le Street) V John Mordue (8) & Tom Watt (19) (Ryton) 8. George Longthorne (15) & John Bowes (18) (Crook) V Mark Lawther (10) & Adam Lawther (7) (Cleveland) 9. Steve Heron (9) & Kevin Hill (12) (Ryton) V Ray McCarthy (17) & M. McCarthy (14) (South Moor) 11.Michael Rutter (7) & Paul Stocks (20) (Ryton) V Douglas Ellison (9) & Richard Mellor (9) (Slaley Hall) 12.Michael Rutter (7) & Paul Stocks (20) (Ryton) V Douglas Ellison (9) & Richard Mellor (9) (Slaley Hall) 14.Bob Fawbert (11) Graeme Ogilvie (8) (Rudding Park) V Jason Budd (10) & Lee Forber (18) (Bishop Auckland/Crook) 15.Andrew Lincoln (6) & Anthony Martin (9) (Catterick) V Fred Lewis-Bynoe (9) & Terry Dady (11) (Dinsdale Spa) 16.Stewart Jones (8) & Alec Jones (5) (Bellingham) V Steve Gordon (4) & Liam Nevens (7) (Morpeth GC) NORTHERN GOLFER GENTS MATCH PLAY PAIRS - ROUND TWO RESULTS 1. Burgess & Welton lost to Slater & Wright 2 down 2. Davison & Hogg lost to Smith & Swanson 4 & 3 3. Hughes & White lost to Marshall & Tindale 1 down 4. Crawford & Harrison lost to Gallagher & Walmsley 1 down 5. Self & Wright lost to Gun & Binney 3 & 2 6. Wooton & Grieve beat McCabe & Lister 1 up 7. Beverley & Dyllaghan lost to Eyre & Scambler 19th hole 8. Bennett & Harmison lost to Gordon & Nevens 4 & 3 9. Patterson & Patterson lost to Barnes & Wailes 2 & 1 10.McVittie & Ward beat Day & Gibson 4 & 3 11.Jones & Jones beat Murphy & Murphy 1 up 12.Fryer & McSkelly beat Slater & McKeown 19th hole 13.Hornsey & Cranston beat Stoker & Jones 3 & 2 14.Longthorne & Bowes beat Heslop & Karczewski 5 & 4 15.Rudd & Thompson beat Ellison & Jamfrey 19th hole 16.Heron & Hill beat Brady & Harper 6 & 4 17.Davison & Johnson beat Fawcus & McCaig 3 & 1 18.Stokoe & Turner beat Elvin & Parker 2 & 1 19.Dix & Smith lost to O’Connor & Oliver Match conceded 20.McCarthy & McCarthy beat McCoy & Hicks 4 & 2 21.Mordue & Watt beat Voase & Huggin Match conceded 22.Saunders & Weldon lost to Rutter & Stocks 23rd hole 23.Lawlor & Vickery beat Bentham & Forth 2 & 1 24.Shield & Devon beat Mapp & Hart 4 & 3 25.Harvey & Bell lost to Bell & Johnstone 2 & 1 26.Lawther & Lawther beat Lamb & Taylor 4 & 2 27.Budd & Forber beat Bailey & Carter 3 & 1 28.Fawbert & Ogilvie beat McIntosh & Watts 4 & 3 29.Lewis-Bynoe & Dady beat Smith & Buxton 2 & 1 30.Gray & Parry beat Scutt & Scutt 4 & 3 31.Lincoln & Martin beat Morfoot & Fawcett 4 & 2 32.Ellison & Mellor beat Askew & Hastings 3 & 2 MATCHES TO BE PLAYED BY SUNDAY AUGUST 3 2014 THE MOST NORTHERN CLUB IN ENGLAND MAGDALENE FIELDS GOLF CLUB Berwick upon Tweed TD15 1NE PLAY & STAY SPECIAL OFFER 2 Nights Bed & Breakfast staying at The Castle Hotel, Berwick 3 Rounds of Golf - 1 each at Duns, Eyemouth & Magdalene Fields Only £150 per person Excellent Party Packages Available For further details telephone the Secretary on 01289 306130 e: [email protected] www.magdalene-fields.co.uk 44 NORTHERN GOLFER Backworth Golf Club A MUST PLAY HIDDEN GEM IN NORTH TYNESIDE 18 month Full Membership ONLY £550 Summer Green Fees 9 holes from £10 18 holes from £18 Telephone the Manager John Robinson on 0191 2684274 Visitors & Societies Welcome Telephone 0191 2689131 for course availability, information and events Email: [email protected] • www.backworthminers.co.uk/golf The Hall, Backworth, NE27 0AH English Senior Open 2014 22-24 AUGUST Rockliffe Hall is the home to the prestigious English Senior Open attracting some of the best golfers from the European Senior Tour, including former Ryder Cup stars and international players from over a dozen countries. To find out more call 01325 729999 or visit www.englishsenioropen.com be part of it Tickets available at: > Rockliffe Hall Pro Shop > Dolphin Centre Darlington > Splash Stockton > or buy online at www.englishsenioropen.com DAY TICKETS UNDER 16’s 10 20 free £ CORPORATE HOSPITALITY & SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE SEASON TICKETS £ www.rockliffehall.com Hurworth-on-Tees Darlington County Durham DL2 2DU +44 (0)1325 729999 [email protected] NORTHERN GOLFER 45 ROCKLIFFESENIORS Paul Nichol (left) and Ges Almond Heroes set for Seniors pro-am There’ll be at least one very nervous team and a couple of equally nervous pros - when the English Seniors Pro-am gets the action under way at Rockliffe Hall. The team in question is from Catterickbased Help for Heroes Phoenix House Recovery Centre and they will be playing in the Thursday pro-am having had no previous experience of golf. The team of Paul Nichol and Ges Almond has been in intensive training under the expert supervision of Rockliffe pro Martyn Stubbings and European Seniors Tour order of merit winner Paul Wesselingh. Paul, from Catterick said: “I’ve always loved sports - basketball and rugby in particular - but I’ve never swung a golf club and to swing my first at Rockliffe Hall has been wonderful. I’m loving every minute of it. The coaching from Martyn is superb - he’s very patient with us. We know we’ve got lots to learn but I already know it’s a game I’ll keep up.” Ges, who is from Northallerton added: “What’s fantastic about the golf coaching is that it is about so much more than just the game of golf. We’re getting to enjoy the amazing countryside around Rockliffe Hall, learn a bit about greenkeeping and meet some true professionals. With their help and our team’s hard work, I’m sure we’ll go far!” The pro-am tournament will be held on Thursday August 21 with the three-day English Senior Open action following over the August Bank Holiday weekend, from Friday August 22 until Sunday. 46 NORTHERN GOLFER Legends for Rockliffe Hall Ryder Cup stars Rocca and Torrance confirm entry for the English Senior Open T wo of the biggest names in European golf are set to play at Rockliffe Hall next month. A star-studded field is expected at the English Senior Open and both Sam Torrance and Costantino Rocca have confirmed their entry for the tournament, which takes place August 22-24. Scotland’s Torrance captained the European Ryder Cup team in 2002, and has 21 European Tour titles to his name. Rocca is Italy’s most successful golfer, having won five European Tour tournaments and two European Senior Tour events. He will be best remembered for his dramatic putt on the 18th at St Andrews in 1995 to force a playoff with John Daly in the Open Championship - Daly went on to win in extra time. Former Ryder Cup player and captain Mark James will join Rocca and Torrance; Steen Tinning will also return to Rockliffe to defend his title. Paul Wesselingh, last year’s Order of Merit winner, has also confirmed his attendance. Chairman of Rockliffe Hall, Warwick Brindle said: “Torrance and Rocca are two of the world’s most admired sportsmen and it is a massive coup for the North East that they have confirmed they are playing at Rockliffe Hall alongside Mark James. We’re really looking forward to hosting the event in the region and welcoming such a fantastic field of players to the North East.” The Rockliffe team was delighted with the 5,000-plus turn-out last October and Brindle added: “We hope it will be even busier this August. We are pretty sure all the international players will be here again and maybe a few more. “We are hopeful we will get support from the public, we got it last year and we are looking for a bumper weekend.” Tickets are available now and are £10 (under-16s free). Visit www.englishsenioropen.com or tel 01325 729 999 Rockliffe Hall Constantino Rocca ROCKLIFFESENIORS BLACKWELL GRANGE GOLF CLUB Same friendly club, new location!! Challenging 18 hole parkland course If you’re travelling to the English Senior Open in August as well as Rockliffe itself, here are some of the area’s other courses you can play BLACKWELL GRANGE Formerly Stressholme Golf Club, the new home of Blackwell Grange Golf Club measures just less than 6,500 yards and is set in more than 145 acres of parkland - offering a picturesque setting and wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding area. The course officially opened in June 1976 and took nearly four years to build. Darlington Council commissioned golf architects CottonPemink to design the course and they made great use of the landscape, designing rolling fairways, which meander around mature trees, water hazards and well-placed bunkers. The course offers a range of challenges, the biggest threat being the River Skerne, which loops through the course and lies in wait for errant shots at the second, third and fourth holes. In addition to the course, Blackwell Grange offers some of the best practice facilities in the North East, including a 15-bay floodlit, covered driving range and a short game practice area. 10mins drive north of Rockliffe Hall Visitors & Societies Welcome Book with the Professional 01325 461002 Snipe Lane, Darlington, DL2 2SA www.blackwellgrangegolf.com Barnard Castle Golf Club An easy-walking scenic parkland course with spectacular views of the Durham countryside Ideal for all golfers especially seniors Visitors, Parties and Societies Welcome Summer Specials Mondays from 1pm & Wednesdays 10am—2pm. Only £15 per round or £55 for a 4-ball Twilight Golf - 4pm onwards Mon-Fri £12 per round • Weekends £15 per round Tel 01833 631980 www.barnardcastlegolfclub.org BARNARD CASTLE Barnard Castle Golf Club is an easy walking parkland course with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and since its redesign several years ago this par 73 course has matured into an excellent venue. Measuring 6,406 yards Barnard Castle is not the longest test, but what it lacks in length it more than makes up for with hazards waiting for any errant shots. Natural water hazards pose the biggest threat - coming into play no fewer than 15 times in your round – and perhaps more for some. Richmond (Yorks) Golf Club Set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales 40mins west of Rockliffe Hall RICHMOND Measuring just 6,086 yards from the back tees and with a par of 71, Richmond may be short by modern standards but the course record of 63 is regarded as a truly great score and one that even the best players rarely get close to. Richmond presents a true test of golf, not too long, but defended by trees, tight doglegs and well manicured, undulating greens. It may not test the best players in terms of length but every player will enjoy their round. The key to good scoring at Richmond is a sensible approach from the tee and a hot putter. The undulating greens offer a great deal of defence. 30mins south of Rockliffe Hall NEW STUDENT SUMMER MEMBERSHIP Play unlimited golf July, August & September for only £120 ADULT MEMBERSHIP Join now for the remainder of the year for as little as £48 per month ONLINE BOOKING For all visitor green fee and open events. See website for more details visit www.richmmondyorksgolfclub.co.uk For more details contact the Professional or Secretary on 01748 823231 email: [email protected] Visit our website: www.richmondyorksgolfclub.co.uk Bend Hagg, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 5EX NORTHERN GOLFER 47 GOLFERTIPS THE DREADED SH**KS Contrary to what many golfers think, a shank isn’t caused by a swing path error; it’s a result of failing to rotate the clubface from open to closed through impact. A swing path that comes from way outside the target line can make the problem worse, but hitting shanks is primarily down to not allowing the forearms to rotate the clubface toward the target. This means the face is open, and the hosel makes contact with the ball. If you have ever suffered from the dreaded shanks during a round, then you will know it’s difficult to stop it happening. Think about why this happens. It’s a devastating shot, so your anxiety and stress levels increase and cause increases in heart rate and tension. This causes the body to stop working correctly through the swing. The increase in tension will also cause your grip pressure to increase dramatically, stopping the club from naturally returning to square through impact. Neil Whinham North ern Golfer Pro tel 0191 529 2144 for private lessons and advice TO CORRECT THIS MISTAKE… RELEASE THE CLUB Focus on allowing the club to release through the ball, rather than trying to force the clubhead through impact RELAX Tension in your setup will be transferred through your body and makes it much harder to release the club. After a shank, try and relax and allow your swing to flow naturally NG TIPS ARE ALSO ONLINE AT: /tips/ www.northerngolfer.co.uk/category 48 NORTHERN GOLFER Focus on letting the clubface release through impact. A great drill for this is to focus on your thumbs; they indicate the position of the clubface. So at impact, your thumbs should be pointing directly at the ball. And as you follow through, they should be pointing at the target. ONE TO PRACTICE… To avoid the shanks, practice with minimal grip pressure on short game shots. On longer shots, let the club rotate through impact, try to concentrate on letting the shot happen naturally, rather than forcing it. A C O A S TA L G E M PLAY THE BEST GREENS IN THE AREA SUMMER SPECIALS 2014 4 BALL V I S I T I N G PA RT I E S Monday-Friday £45.00 save £££’s. Must be pre booked and present this voucher on day of play. Telephone 0191 5294210 option 3 10 or more players FREE 2 course meal after your round!! Must be booked on or before 31st July 2014 and present this voucher on day of play! Telephone 0191 5294210 option 3 W h i t b u r n G o l f C l u b , L i z a rd L a n e , W h i t b u r n , N E 3 4 7 A F w w w. w h i t b u r n g o l f c l u b . c o. u k GET YOUR GAME UP TO SCRATCH Book your Golf Lessons NOW with PGA Professional Neil Whinham 1/2 hour - £20.00 6 x 1/2 hour £100 4 Hole lesson £25.00 9 hole lesson £45.00 Junior lessons £10.00 Telephone 0191 5294210 (option 3) Excellent selection of drivers, irons, bags, trolleys, clothing etc etc! For our latest offers visit www.aslangolf.co.uk Qualified Custom Fit Specialists for leading manufacturers Golf Lessons available with PGA Professional Neil Whinham Golf club and golf equipment suppliers to the UK and Europe Whitburn Golf Club, Lizard Lane, Whitburn, NE34 7AF. Telephone 0191 5294210 email: [email protected] NORTHERN GOLFER 49 Enter online win GOLFERCOMPETITIONS Lo northe g on to rngolfe r.co.uk Northern Golfer competitions are also listed on our website www.northerngolfer.co.uk/competitions, alternatively you can enter via email [email protected] (mark the competition name in the subject field) or post your entry to Competitions, Northern Golfer, Unit One, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield, Northumberland, NE43 7AL Please include your contact details and telephone number. Closing date Thursday July 31, 2014. Usual competition rules apply – available on request. Winners will be published in our next edition. WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT BURGHAM PARK Set in the beautiful, rolling countryside of Northumberland, Burgham Park Golf and Leisure Club has matured well beyond its years and is now rated as one of the best championship golf courses in our region, having hosted three consecutive PGA North Region Championships. Measuring 6,804 yards from the white tees, Burgham has a par of 72, and the course is a real test for the low-handicap golfer, while allowing the higher-handicappers to enjoy their game. For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Which PGA event was hosted at Burgham Park for three consecutive years? WIN A CUSTOM FIT TAYLORMADE SLDR DRIVER WIN GOLF FOR FOUR AT THE KP Overlooking the Vale of York, The KP boasts a 6,193-yard championship course which has been likened to an inland links and as such needs strategy, creativity and, above all, patience. It’s not long by modern standards but with a par of 70 it requires some thought and it’s not simply a question of hauling out the big stick and banging away. The stunning clubhouse dominates the 160-acre, Kilnwick Percy site and the course has a record for holding top events including the Sky Sports-televised William Hunt Trilby Tour in 2010, 2011 and 2012. Terms and conditions: Mon–Fri only, subject to availability; valid until December 31 2014; non-transferable, non-exchangeable. For your chance to win simply answer the following question: What do the letters KP in ‘The KP Club’ stand for? Our friends at Philips Golf Discount, based in Camperdown Industrial Estate, Killingworth, are offering Northern Golfer readers a custom-fit TaylorMade SLDR driver this month. The Philips Golf Discount team prides itself on the quality of the custom fit experience on offer from Philip Carlaw and his team of PGA professionals with the latest FlightScope club-fitting technology in-store to aid in fine tuning your equipment. www.philipsgolf.co.uk For your chance to win simply answer the following question: Which club-fitting technology does Philips Golf Discount have in-store? The competition winners for June were: Slaley Hall, Paul Williams of Bedlington; Beamish Park, Lee Winter of Redcar; Custom-fit Cleveland wedge, James Adamson of Sunderland; Rockliffe Hall membership, Nigel Alderson of Darlington The KP, Pocklington, York Home of the Sky Sports televised William Hunt Trilby Tour tournament 2010, 2011 and 2012 Winter/Spring Play and stay SpeciaL Our luxury woodland lodges are set in 180 acres in the heart of the Yorkshire Wolds, with contemporary interiors, private outdoor hot tubs and amazing views. ONE NIGHT GOLF ESCAPE From £85* per person 1 Night Stay, 2 Rounds of Golf, 3 Course Dinner, Full Yorkshire Breakfast TWO NIGHT GOLF ESCAPE From £170* per person 2 Night Stay, 3 Rounds of Golf, 3 course dinner each evening, Full Yorkshire Breakfast Upgrade to our luxurious Huxtable Suite which offers a combination of elegance, style and pure indulgence with its super king size four poster bed and exclusive use of the cedar clad hot tub Tel: 01759 303090 • email: [email protected] • web: www.thekp.co.uk • twitter: @kpgolfclub *Rates are pppn, based on double occupancy, inclusive of WiFi and VAT at the current rate 50 NORTHERN GOLFER Golf is about to get a whole lot sexier A sleek and stylish place to relax, refresh and recharge the batteries A spike friendly social focal point Easy to use, intelligent retail experience A consistent product offering from golfing basics to wish list luxuries Self-serve hot drinks, cold drinks and golfing nutrition for pre-game preparation Integrated TV screens to catch up on club news, events and sports TV Booking tee times and paying green fees with ease ® 01661 535301 | [email protected] directory NOR THERN NOR THERN directory Pick up a copy of Northern Golfer at any of these venues COUNTY DURHAM Barnard Castle Golf Club Harmire Rd, Barnard Castle, DL12 8QN 01833 638 355 To be listed or to advertise please call 01661 844115 or email [email protected] Beamish Park Golf Club Beamish Park, Stanley, DH9 0RH 0191 370 1382 Birtley Golf Club Portobello Road, Birtley, Chester-le-Street, DH3 2LR 0191 410 2207 Bishop Auckland Golf Club High Plains, Bishop Auckland, DL14 8DL 01388 661 618 Blackwell Grange Golf Club Snipe Lane, Darlington, DL2 2SA 01325 464 458 Brancepeth Castle Golf Club Brancepeth Castle, DH7 8EA 0191 378 0075 Castle Eden Golf Club Castle Eden, TS27 4SS 01429 836 510 Chester le Street Golf Club Lumley Pk, Chester le Street, DH3 4NS 0191 388 3218 Cocken Lodge Golf Cocken Lodge Farm, Leamside, DH4 6QP 0191 584 1053 Consett & District Golf Club Elmfield Road, Consett, DH8 5NN 01207 505 060 Crook Golf Club Low Jobs Hill, Crook DL15 9AA 01388 762 429 Darlington Golf Club Haughton Road, Darlington, DL1 3JD 01325 355 324 Dinsdale Spa Golf Club Middleton St George, Darlington, DL2 1DW 01325 332 297 Durham City Golf Club Littleburn, Langley Moor, DH7 8HL 0191 378 0029 Hallgarth Hotel Golf & Country Club Coatham Munderville, Darlington, DL1 3LU 01325 300 400 Hobson Golf Club Hobson, Near Burnopfield, NE16 6BZ 01207 270 941 Ineos Golf Club School Aycliffe Lane, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6EA. 01325 303 561 Sec John Haykin 07792 610521 52 NORTHERN GOLFER Oak Leaf Golf Club School Aycliffe Lane, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 4EF 01325 310 820 Ramside Hall Golf Club Ramside Hall Hotel, Carville, Durham, DH1 1TD 0191 386 9514 Rockliffe Hall Golf Club Hurworth-on-Tees,Darlington, DL2 2DU 01325 729 980 Bamburgh Castle Golf Club The Wynding, Bamburgh, NE69 7DE 01668 214 321 Rothbury Golf Club Whitton Bank Rd, Rothbury, NE65 7RX 01669 621 271 Saltburn by the Sea Golf Club Hob Hill, Saltburn by the Sea, TS12 1NJ 01287 622 812 Bedlingtonshire Golf Club Acorn Bank, Bedlington, NE22 6AA 01670 822 457 Seahouses Golf Club Beadnell Road, Seahouses, NE68 7XT 01665 720 794 Seaton Carew Golf Club Tees Road, Seaton Carew, TS25 1DE 01429 266 249 Belford Golf Club South Road, Belford, NE70 7DP 01668 213 232 Stocksfield Golf Club New Ridley Rd,Stocksfield, NE43 7RE 01661 843 041 Bellingham Golf Club Boggle Hole, Bellingham, NE48 2DT 01434 220 152 Tynedale Golf Club Tyne Green, Hexham, NE46 3HQ 01434 608 154 Teesside Golf Club Acklam Road, Thornaby Stockton on Tees TS17 7JS 01642 616 516 Blyth Golf Club New Delaval, Blyth, NE24 4DB 01670 540 110 Warkworth Golf Club The Links, Warkworth, NE65 OSW 01665 711 596 Burgham Park Golf Club Near Felton, Morpeth, NE65 8QP 01670 787 898 Wooler Golf Club Dod Law, Doddington, Wooler, NE71 6AN 01668 282 135 Close House Heddon-on-the-Wall, NE15 0HT 01661 852 953 De Vere Slaley Hall Slaley, Hexham, NE47 0BX 01434 673 350 Roseberry Grange Community Golf Club Grange Villa, Chester le Street, DH2 3NF 0191 370 0660 Dunstanburgh Golf Club Embleton, NE66 3XQ 01665 576 562 Seaham Golf Club Shrewsbury Street, Seaham, SR7 7RD 0191 581 1268 Goswick Golf Club Goswick Beal, TD15 2RW 01289 387 256 Sharpley Golf Seaton, Seaham, Co Durham, SR7 0NP 0191 513 1100 Gubeon Golf Centre Walton Road, Morpeth, NE61 3YJ 01670 519 090 South Moor Golf Cub The Middles, Craghead, Stanley, DH9 6AG 01207 232 848 Haltwhistle Golf Club Banktop, Greenhead, NE49 9JR 01434 320 708 Woodham Golf & Country Club Burnhill Way, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 4PN 01325 315257 Hexham Golf Club Spital Lane, Hexham, NE46 3RZ 01434 603 072 CUMBRIA Longhirst Hall Golf Club Longhirst Hall, Morpeth, NE61 3LL 01670 791 562 Brampton Golf Club Talkin Tarn, Brampton, CA8 1HN 01697 72255 Seascale Golf Club The Banks, Seascale, CA20 1QL 019467 28202 NORTHUMBERLAND Allendale Golf Club High Studden, Allenheads Road Allendale, NE47 9QL 01434 683 926 Alnmouth Golf Club Foxton Hall, Alnmouth, NE66 3BE 01665 830 231 Alnmouth Village Golf Club Marine Road, Alnmouth, NE66 2RZ 01665 830 370 Alnwick Castle Golf Club Swansfield Park, Alnwick, NE66 2AB 01665 602 632 Arcot Hall Golf Club Dudley, Cramlington NE23 7QP 0191 236 2794 Macdonald Linden Hall Golf and Country Club Longhorsley, Morpeth, NE65 8XF 01670 500 011 Matfen Hall Golf Club Matfen, NE20 0RH 01661 886 400 Magdalene Fields Golf Club Berwick-upon-Tweed, TD15 1NE 01289 306 130 Morpeth Golf club Loansdean, Morpeth, NE61 2BT 01670 504 942 Newbiggin Golf Club Newbiggin NE64 3DW 01670 817 344 Percy Wood Golf Club Coast View, Swarland, Felton, NE65 9JG 01670 787 010 Ponteland Golf Club 53 Bell Villas, Ponteland, NE20 9BD 01661 822 689 Prudhoe Golf Club Eastwood Park, Prudhoe, NE42 5DX 01661 832 466 Wilton Golf Club Wilton,Near Redcar, TS10 4QY 01642 465 265 Wynyard Hall Golf Club Wellington Drive, Wynyard Park Billingham, TS22 5NQ 01740 644 399 TYNE AND WEAR SCOTTISH BORDERS Eyemouth Golf Club Gunsgreenhill, Eyemouth, D14 5SF 01890 750 004 Hirsel Golf Club Kelso Road, Coldstream TD12 4NJ 01890 882 678 Roxburghe Golf Club Kelso, Roxburghshire, TD5 8JZ 01573 450 333 TEESSIDE Billingham Golf Club Sandy Lane, Billingham, TS22 5NA 01642 533 816 Cleveland Golf Club Majuba Road, Redcar, Cleveland TS10 5BJ 01642 471 798 Eaglescliffe & District Golf Club Yarm Road, Eaglescliffe, TS16 0DQ 01642 780 238 Hartlepool Golf Club Hart Warren, Hartlepool, TS24 9QF 01429 274 398 High Throston Golf Club Hart Lane, Hartlepool, TS26 0UG 01429 268 071 Hunley Hotel & Golf Club Brotton, By Saltburn, TS12 2QN 01287 677 444 Ingleby Barwick Golf Club Lullingstone Crescent, Ingleby Barwick, Stockton on Tees, TS17 5GJ 01642 765 000 Knotty Hill Golf Centre Sedgefield, Stockton on Tees, TS21 2BB 01740 620 320 Middlesbrough Golf Club Brass Castle Lane, Middlesbrough TS8 9EE 01642 311 515 Backworth Golf Club The Hall, Backworth, NE27 0AH 0191 268 4247 Beamish Park Hotel Golf & Driving Range, Marley Hill, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE16 5EG 01207 230666 Boldon Golf Club Dipe Lane, East Boldon, NE36 0PQ 0191 536 5360 Centurion Park Golf Club Rheydt Avenue, Wallsend, NE28 8SU 0191 263 0041 City of Newcastle Golf Club Three Mile Bridge, Gosforth Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 2DR 0191 285 1775 Garesfield Golf Club Chopwell, NE17 7AP 01207 561 309 George Washington Golf Club Stone Cellars Road, Concorde Washington, NE37 1PH 0191 417 8346 Gosforth Golf Club Broadway East, Gosforth Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 5ER 0191 285 3495 Heworth Golf Club Gingling Gate, Heworth, Gateshead, NE10 8XY 0191 469 9832 Hetton le Hill Golf Club Elemore Vale, Easington Lane, DH5 0QR 0191 517 3061 Houghton le Spring Golf Club Copt Hill, Houghton le Spring, DH5 8LU 0191 584 7421 Newcastle United Golf Club 60 Ponteland Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE5 3JW 0191 286 9998 Middlesbrough Municipal Golf Club Ladgate Lane, Middlesbrough, TS5 7YZ 01642 315 533 Northumberland Golf Club High Gosforth Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 5HT 0191 236 2009 Norton Golf Club Blakestone Lane, Norton Stockton on Tees, TS20 3LQ 01642 676 385 Parklands Golf Club High Gosforth Park, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 5HQ 0191 236 4480 Ryton Golf Club Clara Vale, Ryton, NE40 3TD 0191 413 3253 Easingwold Golf Club Stillington Road, Easingwold, YO61 3ET 01347 822 474 South Shields Golf Club Cleadon Hills, South Shields, NE34 8EG 0191 456 8942 Filey Golf Club West Avenue, Filey, YO14 9BQ 01723 513 293 Tynemouth Golf Club Spital Dene, Tynemouth, NE30 2ER 0191 257 4578 Flaxby Park Golf Club Flaxby, Knaresborough, HG5 0RR 01423 863 444 Scalm Park Golf Club Bishop Wood, Wistow Common, Selby, YO8 3RD 01757 210 846 Leeds Golf Centre Wike Ridge Lane, Shadwell, Leeds LS17 9JW 0113 288 6000 Scarborough North Cliff Golf Club North Cliff Avenue, Scarborough, YO12 6PP 01723 355 397 Mid Yorkshire Golf Club Havercroft Lane, Pontefract, Darrington, WF8 3BP 01977 704522 Scarborough South Cliff Golf Club Deepdale Avenue, off Filey Road, YO11 2UE 01723 360 522 Moor Allerton Golf Club Coal Road, Wike, Leeds, LS17 9NH 0113 266 1154 Tyneside Golf Club Westfield Lane, Ryton, NE40 3QE 0191 413 2742 Forest Park Golf Club Stockton-on-Forest, York, YO32 9HF 01904 400 425 Scarthingwell Golf Club The Scarthingwell Centre, Scarthingwell, Tadcaster, LS24 9PF 01937 557 878 Wearside Golf Club Cox Green, Sunderland, SR4 9JT 0191 534 2518 Fulford Golf Club Heslington Lane, York, YO10 5DY 01904 413 579 Selby Golf Club Mill Lane, Brayton, YO8 9LD 01757 228 622 Westerhope Golf Club Whorlton Grange, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE5 1PP 0191 286 9125 Ganton Golf Club Station Road, Ganton, Scarborough, YO12 4PA 01944 710 329 Skipton Golf Club Short Lee Lane, Skipton, BD23 3LF 01756 795 657 Harrogate Golf Club Forest Lane Head, Harrogate, HG2 7TF 01423 862 999 Whitburn Golf Club Lizard Lane, South Shields, NE34 7AF 0191 529 4210 Heworth Golf Club Muncaster House, Muncastergate, YO31 9JY 01904 426 156 Whitley Bay Golf Club Claremont Rd, Whitley Bay, NE26 3UF 0191 252 0180 Kirkbymoorside Golf Club Manor Vale, Kirkbymoorside, YO62 6EG 01751 431 525 YORKSHIRE (EAST) Beverley and East Riding Golf Club Anti Mill, Westwood, Beverley, HU17 8RG 01482 868757 Bridlington Golf Club Belvedere Road, Bridlington, YO15 3NA 01262 606 367 Bridlington Links Golf Club Flamborough Road, Marton, Bridlington, YO15 1DW 01262 401 584 Driffield Golf Club Sunderlandwick, Driffield, YO25 9AD 01377 253 116 Far Grange Park & Golf Club Skipsea, Driffield, YO25 8SY 0800 197 2074 Flamborough Head Golf Club Lighthouse Road, Flamborough, Bridlington, YO15 1AR 01262 850 333 Hornsea Golf Club Rolston Rd, Hornsea, HU18 1XG 01964 534989 The KP Golf Club Pocklington, York, YO42 1UF 01759 303 090 YORKSHIRE (NORTH) Aldwark Manor Golf Club Aldwark Alne,YO61 1UF 01347 838 146 Bedale Golf Club Leyburn Road, Bedale, DL8 1EZ 01677 422 451 Knaresborough Golf Club Boroughbridge Road, Knaresborough, HG5 0QQ 01423 862 690 Malton & Norton Golf Club Welham Park, Welham Road, Norton,Malton, YO17 9QE 01653 697 912 Masham Golf Club Burnholme, Swinton Road, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4NS 01765 688 054 Pontefact & District Golf Club Park Lane, Pontefract, WF8 4QS 01977 792241 Marshalls Golf Heworth Golf Club, Gingling Gate, Heworth, NE10 8HY 0191 4384223 York Golf Club Lords Moor Lane, Strensall, YO32 5XF 01904 491 840 Scarcroft Golf Club Syke Lane, Leeds, LS14 3BQ 0113 289 2263 YORKSHIRE (WEST) Wakefield Golf Club 28 Woodthorpe Lane, WF2 6JH 01924 258778 Pannal Golf CLub Follifoot Road, Pannal, HG3 1ES 01423 872 628 Garforth Driving Range Barwick Road, Garforth, Leeds, LS25 2DN 0113 287 1111 Pike Hills Golf Club Tadcaster Road, Askham Bryan, YO23 3UW 01904 700 797 Garforth Golf Club Long Lane, Garforth, Leeds, LS25 2DS 0113 286 2021 Romanby Golf Club Yafforth Road, Northallerton, DL7 0PE 01609 778 855 Leda Discount Golf Centre Grange Villa, Chester le Street, DH2 3NF 0191 370 1757 Sand Moor Golf Club Alwoodley Lane, Leeds, LS17 7DJ 0113 268 5180 Dewsbury District Golf Club The Pinnacle, Sands Lane, Mirfield, WF14 8HJ 01924 492399 Ripon Golf Club Palace Road, Ripon, HG4 3HH 01765 603 640 Oulton Hall De Vere Rothwell Lane, Oulton, Leeds, Yorkshire, LS26 8HN 0871 222 4690 Whitby Golf Club Low Straggleton, Whitby, YO21 3SR 01947 600 660 Oakdale Golf Club Oakdale, Harrogate, HG1 2LN 01423 567 162 Richmond Golf Club Bend Hagg, Richmond, DL10 5EX 01748 823 231 Otley Golf Club West Busk Lane, Otley, Leeds, LS21 3NG 01943 465 329 Rawdon Golf and Lawn Tennis Club Buckstone Drive, Rawdon, Leeds, LS19 6BB 0113 2506040 Cookridge Golf Club Cookridge Lane, Cookridge, Leeds, LS16 7NL 0113 230 0641 Headlingly Golf Club Back Church Lane, Adel, Leeds, LS16 8DW 0113 267 9573 Hollins Hall Hollins Hill, Baildon, Shipley, Bradford, BD17 7QW 01274 530 053 Horsforth Golf Club Layton Rise, Horsforth, Leeds, LS18 5EX 0113 258 6819 Rudding Park Golf Club Rudding Park, Harrogate, HG3 1JH 01423 872 100 Huddersfield Golf Club Fixby Hall, Lightridge Rd, HD2 2EP 01484 426203 Sandburn Hall Golf Club Flaxton, York, YO60 7RB 01904 469 929 Leeds Golf Club Elmete Lane, Leeds, LS8 2LJ 0113 265 9203 Eureka Copt Hill, Houghton le Spring, DH5 8LU 0191 584 1198 George Paylor Golf 5th Tee,Garesfield Golf Club Chopwell, NE17 7AP 07737 963881 Thirsk & Northallerton Golf Club Thornton le Street, Thirsk, YO7 4AB 01845 525 115 Bradford Golf Club Hawksworth Lane, Guiseley, LS20 8NP 01943 875570 Dynamic Indoor Golf Wideopen, Newcastle, NE13 7BA 0191 481 3590 Woodhall Hills Golf Club Woodhall Road, Calverley, Pudsey, LS28 5UN 0113 255 4594 Wetherby Golf Club Linton Lane, Linton, Wetherby, LS22 4JF 01937 580 089 OTHER GOLF OUTLETS AB Golf Andy Blythe P.G.A Golf Professional Middlesbrough Driving Range, Ladgate Lane, Middlesbrough, TS5 7YZ 01642 300 720 Andy Paisley Golf Centre, Hexham Golf Club, Spittal Lane, Hexham, NE46 3RZ 01434 603 072 Aslan Golf Lizard Lane, Whitburn, NE34 7AF 0191 5294210 Bargain Golf Seaham Golf Club, Shrewsbury Street, Seaham, SR7 7RD 0191 5130837 also at: Wearside Golf Club, Cox Green, Sunderland, SR4 9GT 0191 534 2518 & Hobson Golf Club Burnopfield, Newcastle, NE16 6BZ 01207 271605 Custom Fit Golf South Moor Golf Club Superstore Craghead, Stanley DH9 6AG 01207 283 525 Philips Golf Discount Unit 3 Strand Business Centre Locomotion Way, Camperdown Ind Est Killingworth, NE12 5UJ 0191 268 0008 Riverdale Hotel Bellingham NE48 2JT 01434 220 254 Snainton Golf Direct Coast View, Swarland, Felton, NE65 9JG 01670 787 010 Stokesley Driving Range Broughton Road, Stokesley TS9 5JJ The Golf Bunker Royal Quays Outlet, North Shields, NE29 6DW 0191 258 1598 The Golf Dome The Sport Domes, Tees Road, Seaton Carew, TS25 1DE 01429 800581 The Hobson Golf Range Hobson Golf Club, Burnopfield, NE16 6BZ Tim Jenkins Golf Cleveland Golf Club, Majuba Road, Redcar, TS10 5BJ 01642 471 798 ZFL Golf Unit 8d, North Tyne Ind. Estate, NE12 9SZ 0191 270 2362 SELECTED TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES ALNWICK, BELLINGHAM, BERWICK, CORBRIDGE, HALTWHISTLE, HEXHAM MORPETH, NEWCASTLE, ROYAL QUAYS, SALTBURN, SEAHOUSES WHITLEY BAY AND SELECTED GOLF CLUBS IN THE BORDERS AND CUMBRIA NORTHERN GOLFER 53 To be listed or to advertise please call 01661 844115 or email [email protected] Whickham Golf Club Hollinside Park, Fellside Road Whickham, NE16 5BA 0191 488 1576 The Oaks Golf Club Aughton Common, Aughton, YO42 4PW 01757 288 577 Moortown Golf Club Harrogate Road, Leeds, LS17 7DB 0113 268 6521 Direct Golf Lullingstone Crescent Stockton-on-Tees, Cleveland, TS17 5GJ 01642 765 000 directory Catterick Golf Club Leyburn Road, Catterick Garrison, DL9 3QE 01748 833 268 NOR THERN Ravensworth Golf Club Angel View, Longbank, Gateshead, NE9 7UU 0191 487 6014 from the bunker Welcome to the reader feedback page where you can tell us your likes, dislikes and funny golfing stories as well as make suggestions as to what you would like to see in Northern Golfer Send your feedback to [email protected], on Twitter @negolfer or on facebook.com/northerngolferuk Please include contact details, photos and videos Morpeth Golf Club captains Geoff Proudlock and Margaret Finnie, and vicecaptains Graham Cook and Allison White completed 108 holes (one for each year of the club’s existence) in a single day on Friday June 20 to raise money for this year’s captains’ charity – the Colorectal Department of Wansbeck General Hospital in Ashington. The team, who played three rounds per pair, set off on their 108 hole journey (which is six rounds in case you were wondering) at 5.40am – you can just make out the time on the clubhouse clock in the background of the picture above. Supported by Morpeth members, Geoff and Margaret finished the sixth and final round of the day at 5.30pm. So far they have raised over £1,500 for the charity. Well done to all. Top tweet Paul Collingwood (@Colly622): Oh no I’ve got to get the beers in @No19closehouse I’ve just had a hole in one!! #9iron #17thfilly #boom Join us on Twitter @negolfer and at facebook.com/northerngolferuk Special Offer until 31st August 2014 Monday’s & Tuesday’s from 1pm onwards 18 holes of Golf, £12.50 per player or a 4 Ball & 2 Buggies £80.00 54 NORTHERN GOLFER If you had trouble getting a copy of last month’s magazine we know who to blame. Carolynne Hall, mum of cover girl Jessica, who at 15 became Durham’s youngest champion wrote: Just to say we picked a copy (if not a dozen copies) of the magazine. It is a great article and is winging its way around the world as we speak. Thanks. Our pleasure and good luck to Jessica. SUMMER SALE NOW ON - SAVE £££’S OUR STORE IS PACKED WITH BARGAINS GREAT DEALS ON DRIVERS Special offers on golf shoes FROM £29.99 SAVE £££’S Mizuno JPX E2 MIZUNO JPX E2 NOW 40% OFF RRP TaylorMade Midi, Jetspeed SLDR drivers & fairway woods FROM £169 Cleveland - Selected drivers less than 1/2 price FROM ONLY £89.99 Wilson/Titleist drivers to clear - see in store Callaway X2 Hot CALLAWAY X2 HOT NOW 45% OFF RRP - HURRY Buy dozen Pro V, Mizuno TP, Calllaway Speed Regime, TaylorMade Tour Preferred or Bridgestone Tour B330 receive FREE LEATHER GLOVE WORTH £9.99 ONLY WITH THIS VOUCHER OVER 100 SETS IN STOCK - BEST PRICE GUARANTEE + FREE FITTING WITH OUR NEW FLIGHT SCOPE XI - THE LATEST ON THE MARKET NEW Galvin Green 2014 Spring clothing and waterproof range in stock. Massive savings off 2013 shirts, insula pullovers and waterproof clothing SAVE UP TO 40% OFF RRP OVER 200 GOLF BAGS TO CLEAR Callaway Euro Chev cart bag mrrp £120 Wilson 14 way trolley bags was £79.99 Callaway stand bag rrp £79.99 NOW £86.99 NOW £44.99 NOW £59.99 FANTASTIC DEALS ON SETS OF IRONS NEW Oscar Jacobson clothing in stock 20% DISCOUNT IF YOU BUY 2 OR MORE ITEMS Many golf trolleys in our sale ie CUBE £129 NOW £99 + FREE BROLLEY HOLDER SPECIAL OFFERS ON MOTOCADDY New Puma junior range Various designs & colours 1/2 PRICE GOLF SHIRTS FROM £14.99 Purchase minimum of 7 Callaway X2 Hot irons this month and receive a FREE GOLF BAG/ WEDGE TaylorMade irons FROM ONLY £289 FREE £100 voucher when purchasing Wilson irons (min 7) FREE Cobra bag worth £99 with every purchase of Cobra irons (while stocks last) Baseball Hats Clearance e.g. Cobra rrp £15.99 NOW £7.99 New quality, Cross clothing in stock, shirts, sweater, waterproof clothing 20% DISCOUNT if you buy 2 items or more OVER 100 PUTTERS IN OUR SALE Odyssey puters TaylorMade, Yes in stock putters from only UPTO 25% OFF Sunice Typhoon waterproof golf trousers rrp £79.99 NOW £39.99 Many jackets rrp £99.00 NOW £59.99 £69.99 SAVE ££’s Wilson putters rrp £34.99 NOW £24.99 MD Golf Icon titanium drivers £99.00 NOW £49.99. FAIRWAYS £69.99 NOW £39.99 HURRY! Adams fairway woods & hybrids UP TO £30% OFF OVER 200 WEDGES TO CLEAR ALL LOFTS Selected wedges 1/2 price ie Macgregor £49.99 NOW £24.99 How to find our superstore Leave A1 (m) at junction 63 Chester-le-Street and follow B693 to Stanley, turn left onto B6532 (Asda roundabout), follow road to to end and turn right, pass Blomfomtein School and follow sign to South Moor Golf Club Discount Golf Equipment Shaun Cowell PGA Golf Professional - Tel: 01207 283 525 South Moor Golf Club Superstore, Craghead, Stanley, DH9 6AG Open Mon - Sun 9am - 6pm Early opening at weekends All major credit cards accepted