We've had a glorious week of hot weather, but can I remind you to take plenty of fluids out with you. We had to rescue 2 members from the course last week who were suffering from heat exhaustion. Drinking water helps lower your body temperature and replace the fluid you lose through sweating. It should be drunk before you get to the stage of feeling thirsty and sipped at regular intervals, not gulped. If you feel thirsty then it's too late, you are already de-hydrated.
Make the most of the weather and enjoy your golf.
We are very sad to announce that Jess will be leaving us at the end of August to start her University studies in Bournemouth. I am sure you will all join me in wishing her all the best for the future and we hope to see her back during holiday breaks.
Urwick Bowl
On a scorching Saturday we had the best entry so far into a weekend competition with 142 members playing in the Urwick Bowl. The overall winner with 43 points was Alex Olney, this came after a 'blob' on the 10th, he then went onto to have 7 birdies in the next 8 holes. Well Done Alex.
Runner Up was Paul Thompson with 40 points. 2's winnings have been added to accounts. Sunday's medal was won by Shane Andrews with a nett 67, beating Richard Arrowsmith on a countback.
Past Captains Update
Last week in the Blackhamsley Bowl played at Brokenhurst Manor, Captain Adie Nicol and past Captain Stephen Moore came 3rd.
At Liphook in a field of 44 pairs past captains Paul Mantell and Derek Noyce came 2nd missing out by just one point for the trophy.
Danny Francis
Men's match organiser
New into your pro shop
These smart logo'd Driver and Fairway headcovers, with 2 colour choices, Black and Cream or Navy and Cream, £18.99 for the Fairway covers and £19.99 the Driver cover.
These are a fantastic addition to your bag, so make sure you drop in and get your hands on one while stocks last.
Member review of the new Srixon UltiSoft ball
Gary had told me that my swing speed was well suited to a softer ball, and I had been using the Srixon AD333 ball.
On his recommendation I tried the new Ultisoft ball, which feels great off the tee and around the green. It has even helped my putting, as the soft feel has made me think I don't need to be so aggressive'.
Nigel Newman
The UltiSoft is designed specifically for golfers with low to mid swing speeds who are looking for the ultimate feel without sacrificing distance. The super-low compression delivers an incredibly soft feel whilst maintaining maximum initial ball speed to generate longer, straighter distance.
Click here to find out more.
Using the right ball for your game is so important, yet an area that's often neglected. Make sure you have a chat with us in the pro shop about which ball is best for you, you'll love the difference it can make.
Bookings can still be made for the PING demo day on Thursday, 4 August from 2 - 6pm, when you will be able to try and be fitted for any PING product.
Click here to find out what the PING hardware line up has to offer.
Contact the Pro team to book your slot.
Ball above the feet
This lie brings the ball closer to you, so you naturally stand a little taller. Grip down an inch or two to accommodate the shorter reach to the ball (see photo). Set your weight a little more in your toes; remember, gravity will pull you downhill-in this case, onto your heels.
From this upright posture, the swing will be flatter or more around the body, like a baseball swing. That creates more hand and arm rotation through the shot, with the clubface closing at a faster rate on the downswing. So the tendency with the ball above your feet is to hit it to the left, aim right to allow for that.
Give this a go and let us know how you get on.
In the mean-time, if you are struggling with any aspect of your game and want a lesson, why not have a chat with us in the pro shop, or click here to get in touch.
Continuing with our 'Year of firsts', Ian Caldwell has I think had the ultimate achievement of beating his age in the Seniors Cup on Monday, Ian shot a fantastic level par 71 (43 points) to win the Seniors Cup. He is a very active and youthful 72.
Runner Up was Ian's playing partner Dr Michael Moore with 41 points, winning on a countback from Godfrey Shearing and David Davies.
Diary Date:
Hockley Seniors Open, 7 September - why not bring along a pal from another club... Application forms are available on the Hockley website. Superb day out; great prizes!
The Ladies Extra Medal played on Sunday was won by Chris Quinn with a net 73. Runner Up was Lesley Milne with a nett 74.
Ladies if you require team clothing can I please ask you to place your order on the notice in the changing room by this Sunday, 31 July.
Friday, 29 July - The Junior Open. Please note the course is NO longer closed all day, just between the following times:
Closed until 10am and from 12.45pm - 3pm. There will be NO PLAY before the morning tee closure.
Saturday, 30 July - Mens Long Course Stableford
Sunday, 31 July- a Mixed match v Bramshaw, please note the tee is reserved from 1.45 - 3.00pm
PING Demo day - Thursday, 4 August - 2 - 6pm, book your slot now in the Pro shop.
The Centenary Bowl an AM/AM event on Saturday, 13 August, information has now been posted on the notice board, please enter using the BRS system as usual. This is a team of 4 stableford event.
Winchester Triangular - Saturday, 27 August information has now been posted on the notice board in the foyer, please support this event.