We were all very sad to see Tina go on Wednesday, but wish her all the very best in her new job.
In late November, Sebastian will join our catering team, he already has golf club experience and I am sure that you will help him to settle in by welcoming him to the team.
Course Briefings
The Club has used a professional golf architect over the last 3 years in order to ensure that work on the course is consistent with a sound long term plan for the future to ensure our sustainability and competitiveness as a top grade south of England course. During discussions over this period a possible long term development plan has evolved in which the architect has given his vision of how the course could be adjusted. He will present his analysis of the present course and his concept for the future at two briefing sessions on Friday, 20 November at 2.00pm and 6.00pm.
These will not be decision meetings but will inform members and during discussion we will hear your reaction to the ideas. Following the meetings we will ask for comments and will assess the level of enthusiasm and support for what has been presented. We would like to be able to draw up a long term plan for the course which will structure future works.
For those who are unable to attend the briefings two documents produced by the architect have been placed on the web site. (Members Area - Club News - Course Briefings). The first is the analysis and concept in words and the second is a series of plans. Anyone intending to come to the meetings is also able to read these beforehand but you are urged not to reach any conclusions before the meetings and discussion with the architect.
The popular Titleist promotion started last week and I am glad to see several orders already. Once again they are offering FREE personalisation on any of their golf balls.
These make a cracking Christmas/Secret santa present, or could just be a great way to top up on balls for next year!
Click here to order yours, or speak to one of my team.
Pro Shop Christmas Draw
Our Christmas draw started on Saturday, £3 per box or 2 for £5. The more we sell the bigger the prize fund, but we will have a minimum top prize of £200 along with lots more exciting prizes.
The draw will take place on Sunday, 20 December.
Do you like Cashback?
Between 2nd November and 24th December, any golfer buying a new Motocaddy trolley with Lithium battery can claim £50 CASHBACK directly from Motocaddy.
Click here for more information on this offer.
Are you covered?
I cannot stress enough the importance of Golf Insurance, don't take any risks on the course. Our members can get the best value golf insurance through us for just £22.99.
Why do you need specialist insurance?
All golfers, regardless of ability, run the risk of injuring another person whilst on the course. Every year over 12,400 golf injuries require hospital treatment and millions of pounds worth of golfing equipment is stolen. With our special 30% discount, Golf Care insurance starts from just £22.99 a year and for any of you taking a new policy here, we'll give you a FREE sleeve of Srixon AD333 golf balls from our pro shop.
Click here to find out more about GolfCare insurance or to get your quote.
Well the Capt/Pro challenge is back and what a wet start we've had! Adrian and I played John Walton & Jim McIntyre and John Fisher & Andy Evans on Thursday, we managed to win both games on 17.
On Saturday we played Robin & Ryan Webb and Howard Barton & Tony Thompson, again we managed to win both games this time both on 18. Both matches were good fun, but played in the rain, so we are looking forward to some better weather in the next match on Saturday, 21 November.
This week, Jack and Chris have taken to the stage to put together this week's tip.
Click here to view the video.
Faults Most Amateurs Make, Poor Balance? Stick Your Finish
Here's something to look for the next time you watch a professional golf tournament: Notice how on great shots, the pros hold their finish and how on bad shots, they don't. Why's this worth noting? Because, all too often amateurs swing as if, once they hit the ball, nothing afterward matters. Just the opposite is true.
Whether you're on the range or on the course, I want you to swing fully into your finish. If you find yourself falling backwards, then you've pulled the golf club through with your shoulders and hips rather than starting your swing with your lead leg and then swinging your arms. If you fall forward on your toes or start to walk after you've finished your swing, then your downswing started with your shoulders and you came over the top.
I tell my students to feel their swing from start to finish and by finish, I mean to hold their finish. This keeps them focused through the ball versus "checking out" before the hit.
Here is an exercise to improve balance
Feel Your Balance
Balance is a non-negotiable fundamental. Doing these simple, but very effective exercises will help you improve your stability during a swing and learn to swing without a mind full of bad swing thoughts. Focusing on balance easily distracts your conscious mind from worrying about too many things during the swing. It's also a great way to get loose, both physically and mentally.
To get started on developing a better feel, try and make a few swings (with or without a ball, that's your choice) with your feet together. Swing easy, then make full-speed swings, and keep at it until you're able to hold your balance. Next, do the same thing, but on your right foot. Then, do it on your left foot. Finally, finish making some golf swings with your eyes closed. The goal is to develop a feel for your swing's balance and let go of result-oriented thinking.
Click here to get in touch to let us know how you get on with this...
Chris and I will be releasing some special Christmas lesson packages very soon, so watch out for our special mail and read next week's newsletter for all the info.
We wish Sue Poulter a speedy recovery after breaking her ankle recently. Sue Gardiner took this picture of Sue still getting around with a 'Gin and Tonic' in a novel way, on a scooter! Sue you really shouldn't be drinking and driving! Hope to see you back soon Sue, my 'Zero Powerade' sales have plummeted!
The Ladies Christmas lunch will be held on Thursday, 10 December. The menu choice can be found in the Ladies locker room, please make your choices and pay in the bar.
The winner of the Ladies Centenary Medal was Jo Russell with a nett 76, closely followed by Louise Spruce with a nett 77.
Seniors' Christmas Lunch - Tuesday, 15 December in the Clubhouse.
Wives/partners invited - please keep an eye on the notice board for details!
The Roger Gaines trophy will now be held on Sunday, 3 January 2016.
Open to all juniors, please sign up now on the junior notice board and give this competition your support.
Roger's wife has kindly donated £50 towards the prize fund.
The weather was the main contributor to the low entry of 7 in Saturday's short course stableford.
The results of those that braved the wind and the rain are:
Winner: Merrick Denton Thompson with 38 points.
Runner Up: Alex Olney with 36 points
The Winter League draw has been posted on the notice board in the foyer. The league stage of this competition requires all individuals to play against each other before January 31st 2016.
Please record your results on the slip next to the draw and hand into the pro team.
Friday, 13 November - Sunday, 15 November, The John Simpson 2nd Card. A stableford, played from the yellow tees and enter on the day in the Pro shop.
Saturday, 14 November - Ladies stableford
Tuesday, 17 November - Men's short course stableford
Sunday, 13 December - Turkey Trot
Please enter through the PSI in either locker room
Entry fee of £11.00 for Adults, Juniors FREE
Includes:
Hearty soup with selection of bread rolls, coffee and tea with festive mince pies and prizes.
A 9am Shotgun start of Singles
Stableford full handicap allowance
NON QUALIFIER,
Allowance for Men/Juniors and Ladies 24,
Men off yellow, Ladies off red tees.
MEN'S & LADIES PRIZES, in fact...prizes galore!!!
In the event of the competition being cancelled all prizes will go into the draw to take place at 1pm. All winners MUST be present to collect prizes. Draw for partners & starting place will be posted on the notice board & website.
Note when entering future competitions can you PLEASE ensure you complete all stages on the psi, you have NOT entered the competition if you leave after 'funds' have been deducted, your final screen will show your name and 'Thank you for entering' the competition.