Tag Archive for: Midlands
SGA Tour – Tour Championship 2018
Sociable Golf Association (SGA)
Season Finale ends with a Bang!
Once again, we planned our season ending Tour Championship event on recommendation from our friends at MG. Heading over the Warwickshire border for a two-day weekend, with overnighter, to Whitefields Golf Club.
With our very own Race To Whitefields season long points system, the two day event provides the opportunity for members to decide on either a drunken evening or early to bed in preparation for the chance to secure our third and final major of the season.
Following a fantastic trip to Cleobury Mortimer last year, the boys were up for the challenge and with the sun shining and a very warm welcome from all the staff at Whitefields, we were excited at the prospect of another close finish, little did we know!
Phil Wing (above R) stood on the first tee in defence of his title, knowing that lack of golf during this season due to work and family commitments, could prove to be his downfall. Other notables included in form Andrew Allsopp, Ben Abbotts and Jayson Fitzpatrick. With our lowest handicapper, Karl Harris (2) not attending, Boom Boom’s book provided no clear favourite with odds spread evenly across the field.
With first day groups drawn, competitors aim to secure a second day final grouping, thus having the advantage of viewing the leader-boards throughout the final day’s play. Ben Abbotts secured first place with 37 points, with Boom Boom Tunstall 36 and Phil Wing 34. All three headed to the bar knowing the Sunday would see the last tee time.
For any of our society friends considering Whitefields, we would recommend a visit. The facilities, course and staff were excellent and all at great value for money.
The Sunday morning provided another beautiful day and enjoying a great breakfast we all headed of the first tee. Nerves were apparent with the leaders gagging to get going, but knowing they had to wait for their tee time. Would Boom Boom live up to his nickname and hit driver off every tee or play a more considered game! A wide drive on the first was the answer both Ben & Phil expected who secured gross par’s to set the day up nicely.
During the day the leader-board ebbed and flowed with Ben & Boom battling it out. Phil lost the pace and Trevor Anderson muscled his way into the top 3. Heading to the 17th tee and a complete surprise to the leaders, Paul Wilson had shot the lights out and was leading the championship. Paul had come from behind at Cleobury to lose out by a single point!. Unsettling Boom Boom, his drive hooked out of bounds, twice!! With Ben & Phil closing the gap.
Stood on the 18th tee and a short 324 yard par 4, Boom Boom needed a 3 pointer to land his first Tour Championship and took out his wayward driver to the dismay of Ben & Phil, who had already hit hybrids to perfect positions. Yes, you’ve guessed it…. a wayward drive to the right (this time!) and Boom Boom was lucky to have swing amongst the trees. In true style, he cleared the trouble before him and was once again back in play. A 12-foot putt for the win lipped and the rest is history. Paul (Pic R), known as the Silent Assassin went one better than 2017 and took the title on count-back! Boom Boom’s driver was last seen on EBAY…
Season events
In addition to the planned and quite often an organisers nightmare, we run several season long events including our Order Of Merit, the coveted Match Play Championship and other events as follows:
The Order Of Merit is a 10 event rolling ranking event that captures the previous season’s Tour Championship and the full season ahead. The calculation although complicated is simple in terms of understanding, play your best at every event ensuring your average score is as high as possible. Throwing an event or even a club, will see you penalised in the long run in and in some cases, could lead losing the number 1 spot by a single putt or chip in! And yes its happened.
The Matchplay Championship is a knockout event with the draw made at the first event of the season. The final pairing are provided with caddies and a special day out.
Betterball Championship and Skins League are additional events that utilise the monthly events scoring to calculate the league tables or knockout rounds. Members’ just rock up and the committee do the rest and if the lads ever read the website, they should know if they’ve took home a trophy at the season end.
There are obviously many, many fond and enjoyable memories from the last 22 years and in most cases we have improved our personal handicaps. We continue to raise money for great causes; our fund-raising exceeds £5,000 including a memorable six a side football competition a few years back.
We continue to organise and enjoy Society life and many friendships have been built through our membership. We look forward to the next twenty years.
SGA Tour – Sociable Golf Association – Established 1997
Website: www.sgatournews.com
Email: sgatournews@hotmail.co.uk
Contact: Phil Wing 07486 900843 (Work – 07917 098299)
Founder Members – Phil Wing & Alan Smith
PTF Golf Society – Derby
Production Test Facility Golf Society
Our society was founded in 1991 by employees from the Production Test Facility (PTF) at Rolls-Royce Aero Engines in Derby.
2018 Mid-Season Review
2018’s busy calendar of events and Darren ‘Dash’ Ashmole’s year on the Captain’s throne was planned to start as ever at Morley Hayes over the Christmas break. However, torrential rain and frozen greens forced an abandonment of the event after just a few holes and saw an early return to the nineteenth hole. The weather relented slightly by mid-January for the re-arranged fixture with ‘Long’ Tom Donnachie just pipping Paul ‘PK’ Hind to the ‘Winter Warmer’ Trophy after back 9 count-back both finishing on 35 points.
The unseasonal weather took a further turn for the worst over the Easter weekend as 3 inches of snow in the Peak District forced the postponement of our first full day out of the season at the picturesque Buxton & High Peak. The re-scheduled event in late-April was played in miserable conditions and saw point scoring prove difficult with Joe Cullen winning the Spring Salver on his Society debut with 32 points.
A short trip to Chilwell Manor quickly followed in early May as at last we saw some sunshine to proudly show off our new and improved Society Golf Shirts supplied by Midlands Golf Superstore (thanks to Ian Nicholson) and also sporting the Midlands Golfer magazine logo.
Sec Nathan rocking the new MG logoed shirt
Blustery conditions and tight, tree-lined fairways saw another low point scoring day but a solid performance from Todd Foster winning the Presidents Cup on 34 points
The PTF Invitational event took place at Ormonde Fields in early June with the Divisional prize pots shared evenly between members and guests alike but it was the ever consistent Rob Langley who triumphed overall with 37 points to win the Invitational Trophy for a second successive season.
The heatwave had well and truly kicked in by early July for our latest event along the A50 in Staffordshire at the impressive Newcastle-under-Lyme. Greens in great condition considering the ‘Mediterranean’ temperatures and scorched fairways with the ball travelling huge distances saw the highest scoring of the season with the ‘Alvaston Maori’ aka Ian Hickton storming to victory with 40 points to lift the Summer Vase.
PTF – In Scarborough
The upcoming ‘Weekend Away’ in early August was the highlight of everyone’s season and saw 24 of us travel up to stay in Scarborough for a third time where we played the ‘Friday Fiver’ at Filey, the main ‘Tourist Trophy’ event at South Cliff and Sunday’s closing event at Whitby.
The in-form Ian Hickton currently stands at the top of our ‘Order of Merit’ with 124 points however with the best four scores counting towards the Aggregate Trophy it’s still all to play for with the final ‘Order of Merit event taking place with our visit to nearby Burton-on-Trent in early September.
A close of season reoprt will be added very soon.
Please visit our website at the address below where you can find 2018’s full results and all Society news in PK’s newsletter’s which are a very entertaining read from the society jester. http://www.spanglefish.com/ptfgolfsociety/index.asp
For all enquiries please contact the PTF Golf Society Secretary: nathan.richards@rolls-royce.com
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Bell GS – 59 years young
We are the Bell Golfing Society, founded in 1959 by 4 members of Moseley Rugby Club. I believe we may be the oldest golfing society, still playing in the Midlands, if not the country.
We adopted the name from The Bell, Harborne, Birmingham. Every Monday evening, during the summer, it was 9 holes at Harborne Church Farm, then up to The Bell for beer, banter and dominoes. This continued for 25 years before switching allegiance to Warley Woods, where we were warmly received by David Owen, Warley Woods golf professional. Our monthly golf days were to Shifnal, Brocton, Stratford and our traditional end of season visit to Aberdovey Golf Club, in October for a weekend of golf and merriment, accompanied of course by our very talented pianist, Roy Hurdman.
Although our Monday evening game is no longer, we more than make up for it with monthly visits to Midland courses such as Fulford Heath, Hagley, Ladbrook Park, Kings Norton and others.
Our biggest claim to fame is providing not 1 but 2 captains of the British Left Hander Golfers Association, namely Barry Packwood and Roger Stansfield.
Jeremy Smart is our current President and together with Mike Bunn, organise our annual programme and keep us solvent.
Army Golf Association (West Midlands)
The Army Golf Association (AGA) was established in 1974 to include Officers and Soldiers serving in the Army, regular or retired. Reserves were introduced in 2011 and to date including the civilians based in Army establishments, the AGA has 1800 members.
The AGA (WM) society was started in 2016 and in its debut year plus last year’s events has built up its numbers to 98 golfers. It has an active following on Facebook and is looking to expand its calendar to include some match plays against other clubs and societies.
At present seven meetings per annum are held to include the season opener, spring, summer, autumn and winter meets plus a matchplay event (including a plate competition) and a team of six enter the AGA Inter-Regional event held nationally.
This year the season opener took place at Calderfields G&CC in March with the spring meeting recently held at Shifnal GC, and the summer meet will be at the Shropshire GC in July. The matchplay is in its early rounds with the finals to be held at Beau Desert later in the summer. The autumn and winter meetings are yet to be confirmed.
SSgt Aidi Bennett and Sgt Marcus Murcott are the secretaries for the AGA (WM) society and where possible would welcome some sponsorship and new members.
Contact details email: wmsec@armygolf.co.uk
Archie’s coast to coast challenge
Derbyshire based junior golfer Archie Qualtrough is preparing for a daunting fundraising challenge to become the first person to hit a golf ball from coast to coast.
The 11-year-old, who plays off a 16 handicap, is aiming to raise much-needed cash and awareness for four charities in memory of two High Peak sporting youngsters.
Archie, who last year raised over £2,500 for the same causes by playing 100 holes during one soaking High Peak day (below), has planned a five-day, 83-mile route using 15 golf courses from Maryport GC on the west coast of England to Tynemouth GC on the east coast.
The cross-country challenge is to start on Monday, May 28, and primary school pupil Archie expects it will take five days to complete.
Archie, who is a member of the Derbyshire Under 14 squad and plays his golf at Woodhall Spa, came up with the idea at the end of last year and worked out the path along the approximate route of Hadrian’s Wall.
He told Midlands Golfer magazine: “It’s going to be very tough but I’m confident I can complete the challenge – I’ve been busy building my fitness level and I’m in the gym or out on the course every day.
“I was amazed by the support I received last year and knew I had to do something similar again to raise money and awareness for the four charities that mean a lot to me and the people around me.”
Archive is hoping to raise £6,000 in memory of Ben Strollery and Charlie Craig that is donated through his JustGiving page to YoungMinds, Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), Finlay Cooper Foundation and The Golf Foundation.
Mum Anna says Archie is looking for the support of golf companies to help him achieve his aim.
“Each of the first four days will be dedicated to each of the charities and Archie is hoping to use social media to highlight their work and how they benefit and support young people,” she added.
“Any help in spreading the messages to a wider audience would help enormously.”
Archie will be sending a daily diary of his challenge to Midlands Golfer for readers to follow his route across the country.
Main image – Archie with his Woodhall Spa coach Neil Harvey
Flexible approach pays off for C&B
Golf is changing and memberships are changing too as clubs move to meet the needs of the modern golfer.
Churchill & Blakedown Golf Club, a traditional private members’ club founded in 1926, has embraced a new flexible membership category to increase choice for golfers.
And, nearing the first anniversary since C&B launched its Flex-Up membership, it’s fair to say it has been a huge success.
With nearly 70 members signed up across its three packages, Flex-Up is going from strength to strength and has complemented the traditional full membership categories.
Flex-Up membership was the idea of the club’s PGA professionals Angus Hoare and Phil Lathwood.
Churchill and Blakedown Golf Club
Aimed at attracting new members and generating revenue during the club’s quieter times, it has given a range of golfers the opportunity to become involved at this picturesque course in north Worcestershire.
Flex-Up has proved ideal both for beginners just getting into the game who perhaps don’t want to commit to full membership fees yet or more established golfers who love golf but simply don’t have the time to justify full membership at this point in their lives.
Among those to fall into the starter category is Julie Yardley who has been playing for a year and also has regular coaching with Phil.
Phil Lathwood and Julie Yardley.
Julie became the 50th Flex-Up member and the membership has ignited a love affair with golf.
“As someone who works I have limited time so can only play once or twice a week at most so Flex-Up is ideal,” she said. “I started to play last year because my husband plays and once I had a go I fell in love with golf. I’ve been made to feel very welcome at Churchill and Blakedown and my game has come on massively with Phil’s help so I’m really enjoying the Flex-Up experience.”
Flex-Up is points-based with three packages – 60, 120 or 210 points.
While not carrying the benefits of full membership it is sufficient to meet the needs of many who still hanker after the golf club environment and they can also play in Stablefords and medals.
The club’s long-term aim is to encourage Flex-Up members to move up to full membership which several have already done but in the meantime it has proved invaluable in getting more golfers into C&B which can only be of benefit to all concerned.
If you are interested in Flex-Up or just getting into golf call Angus or Phil in the pro shop on 01562 700454 and find out more.
Alternatively see https://churchillblakedowngolfclub.co.uk/membership/flex-up-membership/
Main Image: Golfers on the 3rd
Sky Sports put C&B in the spotlight
It was a case of lights, cameras, action at Churchill & Blakedown Golf Club as Sky Sports came to film head PGA pro Angus Hoare and two of his talented charges in the summer.
Brothers Brandon Sarfo, aged 16, and Hayden, eight, are long-standing pupils of Angus and have both been capturing the golfing headlines.
Older brother Brandon, who plays off three, is part of the England Midland Training Squad U18s squad while Hayden qualified and recently shone in the World Junior Golf Championships in San Diego in July.
Haydn has a 22 handicap and has been wowing coaches and members alike with his smooth swing and golfing skills.
Sky Sports presenter Kirsty Edwards and cameraman spent three hours at the club where they filmed the juniors in action while also speaking to dad Claude and Angus.
“I’ve been working with Brandon for four years and Hayden for two years,” said Angus.
“Hayden qualifying for the World Junior Golf Championships attracted a lot of media attention. He already plays off 22 which is really pretty impressive for an eight year old and I think he could go all the way.
Hayden Sarfo
“I love coaching both the boys. With Hayden we work a lot on the fundamentals. He swings it lovely but if the fundamentals breakdown that is when the bad shots come so we work a lot on grip, posture and alignment.”
Churchill & Blakedown is making great strides in growing its juniors section with 30 on its books.
Angus, who is a PGA Advanced Professional, and fellow PGA pro Phil Lathwood are both passionate about encouraging more juniors into golf and welcomed the chance to showcase the club.
Angus Hoare – Sky Sports
“We host a lot of coaching programmes at Churchill & Blakedown and also do a lot of out reach work in schools and also adults centres for those with learning disabilities,” added Angus.
“Golf is a great game for kids, both for the health and well-being of being outside but also for teaching them about life-skills. The more we can get playing the better.”
Any parents interested in getting their children into golf can call Angus and Phil on 01562 70045 4to find out more.
Zoom Aqua: Perfect fit in all weathers
ZOOM AQUA CONTROL GLOVE – THE PERFECT FIT WHATEVER THE WEATHER
With unique ‘One Size Fits All’ technology, enhanced durability and all weather performance the ZOOM Aqua Control is the glove that fits perfectly
Innovative golf glove brand ZOOM is bringing its latest development to the market this spring – ZOOM Aqua Control. Built on the brand’s unique FLEXX-FIT technology, the Aqua Control utilises an ingenious mix of flex zones to fit the contours of a golfer’s hand, feeling like a second skin whatever the player’s usual size.
Zoom Aqua Controll black charcoal red_preview
Developed with Austrian Tour player Marcus Brier, ZOOM technology gives fantastic shot feedback due to its ‘second skin’ characteristics. Now for 2018, with the introduction of the AQUA Control, ZOOM has a glove that fits every golfer and every golfing occasion.
Zoom Aqua Controll black charcoal lime_preview
The Aqua Control combines breathable Lycra material with premium kangaroo leather to provide a glove that is twice as durable, fits all sizes, and delivers incredible grip in dry conditions that is matched by its performance in the wet. This innovative blend of technology also benefits from ZOOM Shape-Fit which maintains the perfect shape of the glove, staying wrinkle free round after round and providing a perfectly secure connection to the club.
Zoom Aqua Controll black charcoal fuchsia_preview
In addition to the most modern technology, ZOOM gloves feature several colour combinations that make them stand out from the crowd. With all weather performance, lasting durability, multiple colour combinations and one size that fits all, ZOOM AQUA Control really is the best fit for every golfer.
Zoom Aqua Controll black white red preview
RRP’s: AQUA Control – £19.99, GRIP – £14.99, WEATHER – £11.99, TOUR (Cabretta) – £19.99
Colours: White-black-red, Charcoal-fuchsia, Black-charcoal-lime, Black-red
Media Enquiries: David Wheatley, Medi8
E: david@medi8ltd.co.uk M: +44 (0) 7740 684568
Major award for Anders
Golf coach Anders Mankert, who changes lives through the sport, was honoured last night with England Golf’s Lifetime Service Award, sponsored by Bridgestone.
Mankert, from Cosby Golf Club, Leicestershire, was recognised at the England Golf Awards at the Royal Lancaster London, which highlighted all that’s great about golf in England.
Mankert was celebrated for the difference he has made to blind and visually impaired golfers and to young players making their way in the game.
Guests at the glittering, black tie event – including influential figures from across the sport, volunteers, coaches, clubs and counties – applauded Mankert for his remarkable volunteer contributions which span more than two decades.
He was nominated by blind students who put him forward for “being a unique inspiration and primarily for introducing us to the sport which has changed our life!” The judges agreed, commenting: “Anders has literally given time, expertise and selfless dedication over 20 years, helping to extend the game’s inclusivity.”
Mankert said of his award: “It’s not why I do it, but it’s a lovely, lovely thing to be recognised for your efforts and to know that people actually care. It’s quite humbling and it’s the most amazing thing that has happened in my career.”
His story begins back in the mid-1990s when he saw a group of blind and visually impaired players making weekly visits to a golf range. He realised he could help them, tentatively offered his services and has been working with them, and others, ever since, without charging a penny. “We have just carried on for the next 20 years!” he said.
Mankert, an Advanced Fellow of the PGA and an honorary life member of the England and Wales Blind Golf Association, does far more than teach the technical skills. When one of his students was unable to find an all-important guide to accompany him on the course, he persuaded a local newspaper to feature the blind golfer – with the result that 17 people volunteered to help.
When other students, often unable to work, cannot afford golf club subscriptions he contacts local clubs to ask if they will waive their fees. Some willingly open their doors, but it can also be a tough task – Mankert wrote to 15 clubs on behalf of one player and didn’t receive a single reply.
But the setbacks are far outweighed by the achievements. The player who was very depressed after losing his sight overnight and is now British No 1, has competed in world championships and counts Mankert as a personal friend. The visually impaired girl who is now able to play weekly golf with her dad. The young offender who almost blinded his victim with a shot from an air rifle and was ordered by a judge to act as a blind person’s carer for a week. “It was genius,” said Mankert, who described how the surly, unhelpful young man transformed into a phenomenal carer.
There’s also satisfaction achieved by player after player. “It strikes me that golf must be the hardest possible game for a blind person to take up,” said Mankert. “But I think they feel that if they can play golf and see some progress they can pretty much have a go at anything and you can see their confidence growing.”
There’s also satisfaction for Mankert. “I get masses out of this. I have really enjoyed it, it’s very rewarding to see how something small on my part, giving up a little bit of time, has had such a tremendous impact. It’s unbelievable.”
Mankert also runs a scholarship programme offering young golfers the opportunity to work like a tour pro for a year. They receive unlimited coaching and mentoring from Mankert together with support from specialists such as a physiotherapist and a dietician.
He’s just awarded his sixth scholarship, selecting the winner from 387 applicants from across the country. One of his former protégées, Ryan Evans, is now a European Tour player, and another is a PGA professional, while all have improved their golf and grown personally and in confidence.
“When I was young lots of people helped me and so it’s quite important to give a bit back, it just feels the right thing to do,” said Mankert.
Main feature image: Anders Mankert (left) receives his award from Stuart Attfield on behalf of event sponsors Bridgestone.
New Rushcliffe challenge for Marc
The Rushcliffe Golf Club has recently appointed a new Club Manager. Marc Valentine, 27 years old from Loughborough, has been tasked with building on the fantastic work that has taken place at The Rushcliffe Golf Club over the last few years.
Alongside a fantastic course, The Rushcliffe Golf Club has a brilliant set of staff members with passionate Greenstaff and Golf Pro who work tirelessly for the good of the Club.
Marc Valentine
Having previously worked in a business development role for a leading University, Marc brings with him a skill set focused on business engagement, social media marketing and events management. In his previous role he was responsible for engaging with some of the largest organisations in the world and directly contributed to the organisation and running of the UK’s largest university careers fair, an event which catered for over 240 organisations and 7,000 students.
Marc is passionate about developing the The Rushcliffe Golf Club brand and embracing technology in order to do so. His aim is to secure the long-term future success of the Club by continuing to develop the fantastic golfing product and facilities available.
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DOGS (Dallington Old Boys)
Dallington Old Boys Golf Society or “DOGS” as we call ourselves were founded in November 2016 and are based around the Northamptonshire region.
We started as a core group of friends in and around our 30s who were finding it ever harder to stay in touch on a regular basis amongst the daily grind and family commitments. DOGS was born. With a founding membership of 21 we’ve already grown by over a third in just over a year which is a fantastic achievement from everyone involved.
We’re proudly run by a committee of Kelvin “Dad” Longrigg – who looks after the core running of the society as Captain and Secretary, Glen “DD” Smith – Vice Captain and Treasurer who helps ensure event days run like clockwork, Stuart “Jarv” Wiseman – the brains behind our league tables and handicap adjustments. Alex “Sharky” Parkinson manages our social media channels “tweeting, following, and YouTubing” his heart out hoping that one day we’ll get a complimentary invite to Augusta J. Then we have Mr. Phil “Fines Master esq” Martin who, with sniper like precision polices the society rules with the proceeds helping to fund our social events. We’re also very proud to donate a portion of our fines to charity each year and for 2018 we’ve selected Cancer Research as the beneficiary.
We are a band of builders, sales folk, recruiters, architects, designers, electricians, not to mention a few members of the #Hashtagutd celebrity YouTube football team – all of us bound by our common interest in golf.
And it would be remiss to not give a special mention to our northern/southern @madebygav with a backswing that would beguile the most experienced contortionist – naturally he’s known as “The Whirlwind”. We think he’s one of the longest hitters on tour, it’s just that we’re never really sure which way it’s going off the tee!
Playing courses in and around the Northamptonshire/Midlands area our curtain closer was hosted by the Belfry on the Brabazon course capping a hugely successful first season. Some notably enjoyable courses have been Collingtree Park, Staverton Park and Whittlebury Park, each providing their own quirks and challenges.
In terms of competitions, we run season long stableford and match play leagues. Interestingly, since our inaugural event we are still yet to see a double winner!! The stableford league is the bread and butter of accolades with the overall winner presented with the Stephen Fairbrother Order of Merit trophy (below) – in memory of our good friend “Fairy” who sadly passed away in 2008 at the age of 24, way way before his time. He keeps the weather good for us! Ironically, the first Order of Merit was won by none other than “Dad” himself having been taken right to the wire at the last event by Vice Captain DD. 2018 promises to be an equally competitive affair as the race to being crowned 2018 OoM Champion hots up again with the promise of the winner’s name etched into DOGS folklore.
In addition to the season long leagues we also run individual event prizes; the usual NP/LDs plus various special prizes such as “Par 5 Hero (best cumulative par 5 scores)” and “Connect 4 (best 4 holes in a row)” amongst others with current front runners lit up on the special prize leaderboard.
New for 2018 will also see us running some golf “skills schools” such as freestyling, chipping challenges etc. which we’ll be posting on our social media channels for a bit of fun.
So what does the future hold for DOGS? We’re still a young society and are always looking for ways to improve. We regularly run surveys seeking feedback on how we are run, the courses we play, hospitality etc. We also like to share this feedback with our hosts. Aside from continuing to invest in our main objective of promoting friendships through the enjoyment of the game we’d like to increase our membershipand grow our DOGS brand to become synonymous with being one of the most attractive golf societies in and around the Northampton area.
If you are interested in becoming a DOG – please get in touch via email at dogsgolfers@gmail.com or via one of our social media channels @dogsgolfsociety. Similarly, if you’re a golfing venue and would be interested in hosting us as a society please get in touch
Duca Del Cosma NEW shoe range
DUCA DEL COSMA RELEASES EXCITING NEW SHOE RANGE
-Premium Italian brand offers lifestyle designs for on & off course wear-
The Italian fashion brand Duca del Cosma that pioneered ultra-lightweight spikeless golf shoes more than a decade ago, is releasing an eye-catching new range of premium golf shoes for Spring 2018 that can be worn both on and off the course.
Bold, classy, elegant and sporty – the brand philosophy is represented in a distinctive collection for men and women that takes its inspiration from award-winning Italian design combined with amazing attention to detail.
The latest range features stylish options incorporating new designs and colourways, plus state-of-the-art shoe technology.
Leading styles for men include the Camelot (White/Lemon), Kuba (White/Red/Green) and the La Spezia (White/Orange); while the women’s collection also boasts top-of-the-line shoes, including the Palm Springs (White/Taupe), Porto Ercole (White/Sand) as well as the Olbia (Gold).
The high class build quality is matched with advanced technology that includes a waterproof microfibre system acting like a breathable protective ‘sock’ within the shoe. The waterproof membrane keeps the foot dry during play and is supported by a soft PU insert sole to provide extra comfort for the duration of the round.
The brand’s innovative SKYFLEX technology outsole is built around an ergonomic design that provides grip during the downswing for a stable strike, while special channels allow the shoe to bend and flex perfectly to the natural roll-off motion of the foot.
“Golfers who try them comment that our shoes are extremely comfortable from the very first time they wear them,” said Tony Eccleston, General Manager for Duca del Cosma in the UK & Ireland. “We pride ourselves on being the brand that pioneered the spikeless golf shoe and we continue to move forward with new shoe technologies, as well as an exceptional range of colours and design styles,” he added.
The lightweight shoes are available in a variety of fashionable colour combinations and to see the full range visit the website: www.ducadelcosma.com
Willowbrook GS
Willowbrook Golf Society
The Society was formed in 2002 by a group of golfers who met casually on a Sunday evening, to ‘chew the weekend fat’ in The Willowbrook Club, a private members social club in Gedling, Nottingham.
The first 3 meetings were informal affairs with 30 or so golfers having days out at Greetham Valley and Morley Hayes Golf Clubs. The WGS was formally made a Society in 2003 and plays midweek – most of us are self-employed or retired – 7 or 8 times a year, starting in late March and running through to early November. We normally play within an hour to hour and a quarters drive away from our headquarters, but have within that radius courses like The Notts Golf Club, Worksop, Coxmoor and Lindrick to chose from, all of which we have played. Membership has reduced over the years, but we have a core of 20 members and usually take around 16 guests to each meeting
We are a mixed ability group, mostly club members from east and north Notts, with handicaps ranging from 5 to 28. Our meetings consist of team events, with an Order of Merit Trophy being awarded at the end of the season on the basis of the average of best five individual Stableford scores attained during the season.
Sec Tony Rogers (r) with the WGS fourball at MG’s Society Classic, Marriott Forest of Arden 2016
Over the years we have raised many thousands of pounds for charities including The Lincs/Notts Air Ambulance, Nottingham Hospice, Panthers Disabled Sports, The Children’s Kidney Ward at The Nottingham City Hospital and in 2015 the society helped our secretary and two other cancer sufferers to raise almost £4,700 for The Teenage Cancer Trust by doing 54-holes in a day – 18 each at Mapperley GC, Ruddington Grange GC and The Nottinghamshire G & CC.
Our first meeting this year will be at Newark at the end of March, and future venues this year include Ullesthorpe Court, Scraptoft, Rufford Park and our only 27-hole day of the year at Belton Park, Grantham.
There is one thing missing from our list of achievements – in 15 years of trying, no one has had ‘A Hole in One’!!!!
Contact details:
Secretary – Tony Rogers – golf@tonyrogers.plus.com
Facebook: Willowbrook Golf Society – Twitter @WillowbrookGS
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Friends Golf Society
Friends Golf Society
As written by Peter Christoforou, a Friend
We celebrated our 10th Anniversary in 2015, not bad going for a society that was formed in 2005 by sixteen friends and relatives, hence the name. Since our inception the society has grown and now boasts a membership of over 40 golfers.
Myself and my close friend Steve Efstathiou run the society, me being the treasurer and Steve the secretary booking the courses with Steve’s son Socratis the handicaps secretary.
Our members are dotted all round the West Midlands, Derby, Nottingham and Leicester so we arrange the courses to fit in with everyone.
We meet once a month on a Wednesday and play seven competitions between March and October with points awarded for the top ten finishes which go towards an Order of Merit table. Prizes and a small trophy are also presented to the top three finishes in each event.
Each event has its own named trophy, the first one we play for is the George Angelides, in memory of one of our founder members. We also have The Founders Cup named after the three founder officers myself ,Steve Efstathiou and my brother Chris Christoforou.
The Order of Merit winner becomes society captain and leads the society the following season in a challenge match against another Midlands society under a Ryder Cup format in May.
Last season we were fortunate to have a sponsor in Double A kebabs, most of our members are in the catering trade and through their suppliers we receive some very welcome financial support.
Over the years we have played on some great courses the most recent one being Northamptonshire County, our other local favourites include Little Aston, Walmley, The Nottinghamshire and Enville. We also treated ourselves this year for the 10th anniversary with a trip to Woburn which was a fantastic occasion and a closely fought event too with double OOM points on offer.
The highlight of the season is the trip abroad, four days in the Algarve with three rounds of golf on some of Europe’s finest courses such as the Old Course in Vilamoura which is everyone’s favourite. The below image shows a group of Friends, off course last year during our trip to The Emporda Forest Golf Club, near Girona, a fabulous break.
Later on in September we always play for the Links Trophy on one of Britains best seaside courses. The Links Trophy and the Founders Cup played over three rounds are classed as majors and carry extra merit points.
We all look forward to meeting up every month to enjoy each others company, its a great day out but very competitive. Those Order of Merit points are well contested because the top twelve play in the Ryder Cup and it’s an event that everyone wants to play in.
We hope the society will continue for many years to come with the younger members taking control after the founder officers retire, so if any golfers who like their golf competitive and having fun on a great day out are keen, come and join the Friends Golf Society.
Take a look at our website www.friendsgolfsociety.co.uk
Our contact numbers are Peter 07967039078 or Steve 07872903230
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Robin Hood GS
The Robin Hood Golf Society – Swannington (Leics)
Robin Hood’s origins started back in the autumn of 2011. Originally formed by Mike Barnett, Andy Hawtin & Kevin Orvis as a means of getting some exercise & thrashing away the pains of the working week. Since those early day the society has grown steadily, with the odd regular leaving or quitting the game, but new blood has kept on coming.
The society now has 32 members all of who play at least two society events per season. The season consists of 10 society events running from February until November. These events enable members to accrue points towards the end of year presentations. A minimum of 7 of the 10 events count towards the player of the season, where the highest average score decides the eventual winner of the Claret Jug.
The monthly events carry prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd places. These prizes range from Polo shirts, Gloves, Balls, Umbrellas & eventually to beer. There is also a prize for last place which is a “turkey hat” of which the unlucky participant has to wear on the 1st tee at the next event. There are also prizes for nearest the pin, longest drive & nearest the pin in two.
Although many of us are club members, the majority are “fair weather” golfers, which in some ways reflects our age span which ranges from 25 – 78 years.
We try to accommodate at least 5 – 6 new golfing venues per season during the so called “better weather” months. In the winter months we mainly stay local, because you never know if the event will be called off at short notice.
During the month of June, we play for the Brian Orvis Memorial Trophy. This trophy was donated by Kevin Orvis in remembrance of his late father, who scored a hole in one at Chevin Golf Club. CGC presented the trophy to Brian for his achievement.
The month of December brings around our “winter warmer” in which we play an 18 hole par 3 course & again a trophy has been produced.
As a society we also try to have two long weekend’s away “stay & play” outings, which normally take place in May & September.
Each society event concludes in our hostelry of residence The Robin Hood, Swannington. Traditional Sunday lunch is provided by our hosts Kevin & Carol, after which the prize giving takes place & a gallon of beer is donated by the landlord.
As a society we have run & participated in charity fund raising events over the past three years for British Heart Foundation, Rainbows & Acorns. The donations have either been individual, as a team or part of organised media, all of which have been run from The Robin Hood.
The social aspect of the society balances the competitiveness of the winning demon within & for those who dedicate their Sunday society day to winning, comes the harsh reality of the handicapper.
RHGS Committee:
- Mike (Rhino) Barnett Chair & Events
- Ian (Villa) Boyes Treasurer
- Paul (Wils) Wilson Handicaps
- Dave (Sticky) Stevenson Captain
www.robinhoodgolfsociety.com or tel: 01530 831137
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
St Thomas Association GS
ERDINGTON STAGS
The Golf Society was formed in February 2000 by golf playing members of St Thomas’ Association in Erdington. The society now boasts over 50 members and we play a range of courses all over the Midlands. Occasionally we trek further afield. We tend to play twice a month and we have a Presidents day and a Captains day – both days usually involve a coach trip which are usually very entertaining in themselves.At least once a year we have a society weekend away which normally consists of a two night stay with three rounds of golf. This year we travelled even further afield than usual to the wonderful courses at La Manga in Spain – it was so successful that we will be booking it again for next year. For this particular trip we even had a STAG return from Australia just to specifically play with us (and to see his family I suppose) – Jim Daly – our Captain’s brother.
Our members handicaps range from scratch to 28 so we have a wide range of players who all encourage each other – as well as berate for the occasional air shot or miss-hit – we still await the society’s first ever hole-in-one!!!
We hold a monthly meeting on the first Friday of every month at the club where we discuss all sorts of matters that have arisen over the past month. This is a great opportunity for us to celebrate the past months victories, any controversial issues and, of course, to socialise with a great bunch of people.
Once a year we hold a charity dance where we raise money for local charities. Past charities have included Acorns, The Norman Laud Association, Help for Heroes, The QE Hospital, The John Taylor Hospice and The Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Since our formation we have raised over £22,500 for local charities.
Our members comprise of people from all walks of life and usually have some outrageous stories to tell. Our current captain is David Logue with his Vice Captain Chris McGrath. Our President is the much respected John Costello and our society secretary is Brendan Reilly. Brendan organises all of our trips and courses that we play at – he’s renowned for rounding the fee for our rounds up!!!
We would love to see some new faces around the society and you can contact us through our website www.
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to The Wall, and in the magazine’s new society section (#No Gimmes), please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
MAGS Staffordshire
The MAGS Society hail from the edge of The Potteries in Staffs and have a membership of over 60 golfers, gathered over the years since their inception back in 2006. Back then it was The Mainwaring Arms as the home base but they are now run from The Sheet Anchor pub just a little further down the road in Baldwins Gate. Phil Lally, one of the founders organises the venues and prizes and Hon Sec Ian Cairns takes care of the organisation of each event.
Every last Thursday in the month, apart from December the MAGS meet for a society day, playing their golf at courses in Staffs, Derbys, Shropshire and Cheshire. The events are limited to a maximum of 36 players and even in the winter months entry is nearly always full. Membership is open to all and handicaps range from six to 28. They’re a pretty competitive bunch and the events are divided into two divisions so that the chances of being in the prizes increases. The total prize fund for each event is 13 individual prizes with an additional kitty for ‘twos’.
MAGS GS – At MG’s Society Classic – Marriott Forest of Arden 2016
They hold year- long competitions to find the Golfer of the Year and a Knock Out Cup. Also included in the monthly schedule are four major comps which include ‘The Welsh Cup’ an annual event played on a course in North Wales. It’s a region the guys are very familiar with as each year 12 golfers take part in the ‘Links and Drinks’ event, three seaside courses and two nights away and there’s also a popular Llandudno weekend that even more members enjoy each year.
The Golfer of the Year is organised to be part of each monthly society day and is based on the best five stableford scores over the year. The Knock Out starts in the Jan/Feb events with the top 32 scoring players going through to the next round and the same format exists in March/April leaving 16 remaining, then it gets whittled down further through the year until the final between the top two which is held at Brocton Hall in the Autumn.
For 2018 as it’s a Ryder Cup year, there will be a special MAGS event around September time based on Ryder style formats.
For more information about the Society go to http://magsgolf.wix.com/mags-golf-society
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
UAB Golf Society
Urban Art Golf Society
The UABGS was formed in 2011 when a collection of patrons from the Jewellery Quarters’ Urban Art Bars (The Red Lion and The Lord Clifden) decided that their golf needed a new sense of purpose, and, some healthy competition.
The drinking society with a golfing problem quickly gathered a steady membership and now ventures out six times a year to clubs all over the Midlands.
Not being attached to a particular golf club, society members and their frequent visitors travel the breadth of the Midlands in search of golfing fulfillment. Recent years have enjoyed trips to Sapey GC, Druids Heath GC, Aston Wood GC and Shrewsbury GC, just to name a few favourites.
A mystery golf course is usually on the card for the final game of the season, which is always followed by the end of season awards ceremony, complete with trophies for the winners and tales of woe from those less fortunate.
Members compete in league and cup competitions, whilst visitors are also invited to take part in longest drive, nearest the pin, the all-important “points sweep”, and, more recently, the group “yellow ball” competition.
The Society emphasis has always been on fun and laughter, with visitors frequently returning as and when they can. Most recently, UABGS returned to Sapey GC for a spectacular day in which the field of 17 attendees were separated by a mere 8 points! A testament to the handicap committee or the modest quality of the golf on show… you decide.
Whilst the Society’s heartbeat is The Red Lion in Birmingham’s famous Jewellery Quarter, the members themselves are spread from Telford to Warwick. Anyone wishing to join us should contact Chairman Tonks (uabgolfscoiety@yahoo.co.uk) or you could always visit one of the pubs and ask for information.
You can also follow UABGS on twitter @uab_golf and facebook.com/UABGOLF
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to The Wall, and/or in the magazine as well in our new society section #NoGimmes, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Leekbrook Travellers GS
Leekbrook Travellers
Midlands Golfer’s own Leekbrook Travellers are a very new golf society, initiated during a drunken pre-Xmas evening at the Travellers Rest pub, just outside Leek in Staffs. We are made up of residents of the local estate and also an equal amount of Leek (Birchall) and Westwood GC members who are just looking for a few extra golfing days out and to try a few new courses in the area that they haven’t come across before.
LTGS are a super sociable group with our aim to run fun and entertaining days out and we genuinely encourage members of all ages and abilities to join us. We currently have 48 members already of which six are ladies.
It’s early days for us all at LTGS, we’re a little bit of a rabble for now, but we’ve made a great start and the rate of new members joining in has been amazing and really exciting. The editor of MG, Phil Nicholas is also the LTGS organiser and encourages the society to take part in magazine based playing events, which they do so to mixed success. This fourball below for instance took 3rd place out of 21 in the MG Society Classic at Marriott Forest of Arden in 2016. Soon we’ll be taking on some of the other MG affiliated groups in Ryder Cup style match ups.
We run events on the last Friday of each month, 12 months of the year. If you live in the Leek/Staffordshire Moorlands area and are interested in fun golfing days out, come and join us, we’d love to hear from you.
Facebook – Leekbrook Travellers Golf Society
Call Phil – 07530 752688
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to The Wall, both in the magazine (#NoGimmes) and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Caribbean Golf Society
The Caribbean Golf Society was formed in Birmingham during the winter months of 2007 when sensible people would usually be at home warming the fire. The idea to form arose out of seeing so many African-Caribbean golfers playing regularly in the region.
The inaugural event took place at the Lickey Hills Golf Club in Birmingham on Good Friday 2007. Fourteen golfers took part in our first event, which turned out to be a very sunny day for the time of the year. We have since held many events across the Midlands with our membership growing from those first fourteen golfers to well over 40 in 2015. We welcome all golfers, you do not have to be of Caribbean origin to become a member.
Our Mission:
- Provide a networking outlet for people in the region
- Utilize golf for personal growth and career advancement
- Provide educational and mentoring programs to improve golfing skills and personable skills to the youth in the region
- Increase the knowledge, self-confidence and enjoyment of the game of golf
The CGS are long standing friends and supporters of Midlands Golfer, the first society we ever covered back in 2010. Long regarded as being one of the best organised and most competitive groups in the region, their typical season takes them all over the Midlands and sometimes further beyond. They also find time to raise vital funds for local charities as well as joining us for our own fund raisers and competitions.
Naturally there’s an Order of Merit title at stake, won in 2017 in great style by Ian Higgins who won three of the season’s main events on his way to the overall title.
There are three England based Caribbean Golf Societies and every year our Birmingham based group take on the other two, based in Bristol and London for the annual ‘three-way’ match, an two-day event that always sees a high level of competitiveness but also a good deal of fun and socialising too.
Find out more about the CGS by visiting the website at www.caribbeangolfsociety.co.uk
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to The Wall, and/or in the magazine in our new society section #NoGimmes, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Dowty Golf Society
DOWTY WOLVERHAMPTON
A couple of years ago due to dwindling numbers the continuation of the very long running Dowty Wolverhampton Golf Society was in doubt. An influx of new members though in 2016 has seen them reach their 57th year in 2018 still prospering. The highlight of the 2017 season was the first ever “weekender”, where 11 of the society’s members travelled to Grantham to play and stay at the excellent Belton Woods complex.
Indeed the weekend proved to be such a success that plans are already in place for 2018’s fixture & there is also talk of a trip abroad, Last season also saw us visit Church Stretton, Ombersley, The Shropshire & Bewdley Pines amongst others. As ever the Society is always looking to welcome new members & although based in Wolverhampton we travel all over The Midlands looking for a good golfing challenge. Most of our fixtures take place on a Friday afternoon (between 1pm and 2pm) so if you are interested in joining us please feel free to contact stuart.davis17@blueyonder.co.uk for more information.
Website: http://www.dowtywolverhamptongolfsociety.co.uk/
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
The Branston Dobbers
THE BRANSTON DOBBERS
Branston Dobbers were formed in early 2014 by a collective looking for a good time while playing the beautiful game of golf. The group was formed by a group of five friends known as the ‘originals’ who like to play and have side bets,banter and a beer after a hard day on the course. This quickly spiralled into the newest up and coming society to hit the Branston Golf & Country Club in many years.
The Dobbers currently have 30 active members from all walks of life including five female members, of which 20 or so play weekly at our regular Saturday 8.30-9am tee times.
The first ‘Major’ of the Dobbers season was the ‘Dead Duck Trophy’ played in May (to commemorate the life of a young duck tragically killed on the course by a rogue ‘snap hook’) which was won by none other than 2014/2015 Captain Stuart Haywood.
As our popularity grew, a second ‘Major’ was pencilled in for the summer to co-incide with Ryder Cup weekend against another society from Branston known as ‘The Squids’ .This attracted a very large crowd to the patio area for the climax which was an 11/11 tie after 2 days of singles and doubles matches. All money raised went to the 2014 Branston Captain’s Charity, Canine Partners.
Apparently – THE best looking society in The Midlands – The Branston Dobbers
The first winter event was played between The Dobbers & the ‘Chicken Club’ (Burton GC society). This event was played at Burton on a brisk Sunday morning with the Dobbers running out winners and taking the trophy home.
Up to date in 2018, the Dobber’s travels have continued, a trip to La Manga in October 2016 was a memorable players and partners occasion. Plus we’ve recently teamed up with another group, The Wolves Supporters GS for a very enjoyable match up at Penn GC.
The Dobbers are looking for other local societies to join up with for friendly matches, get in touch by e-mailing them at branstondobbers@gmail.com
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Wolves Golf Society
A fan of both Wolves and Golf, we welcome new members to come join us once a month on Saturdays or Sundays.
The society is now into its second year and we would welcome anyone to join FREE of charge, all they have to do is pay to play on the day of the society meeting.we will advertise meetings on our Twitter and Facebook, and if anyone wants to email they can.
We meet on a monthly basis at various Golf Clubs around the Midlands and we are hoping to play other golf societies around the country also.
Wolves Golf Society
Shane Robinson and Adam Sedgwick both run the society and they are welcoming new members weekly.
We hope to build a foundation for like-minded golf lovers to also show that we as Wolverhampton wanderers supporters don’t just meet up for football matches, we also can meet up for other sports too.
We’re over the moon to run this society for wolves fans, we do welcome fans from other clubs as we already have WEST BROMWICH and ASTON VILLA supporters playing.
We’ve been invited to travel to Portugal on the 19th October 2018 to play against premier league teams SPORTING LISBON and SETBUL societies.
We hope to play more societies around the UK and Europe in the future.
To anyone wanting to join we want them to know that you will have total piece of mind when joining our society that you’ll ha e a relaxing and enjoyable day/weekend with great like-minded people.
For more info, our contact details are:
TWITTER: wolves_society
FACEBOOK: wolves supporters golf society
EMAIL: wolvesgolfsociety@gmail.com
PLASTICS INDUSTRY GOLF SOCIETY (PIGS)
As long ago as 1931 a group of businessmen working in the newly formed plastics industry met on regular occasions for a game of golf, friendly banter and a chance to catch up on common interests. So popular were these occasions that it was decided to form a golfing society which accommodated their love of the game and also provided the opportunity to network within the industry.
Little Aston, Record 1
Little Aston, Record
The P.I.G.S. was formed initially in 1933 by Cyril Last (Founder) and proved so popular it quickly went national with the Midlands section being set up in1934 by Sydney Goode (BIP), E.Wilding-Cole and Jim Butler all of whom presented competition trophies to the society. These same trophies are still competed for today and feature each season in our fixture programme.
Monsanto Team Winners
The P.I.G.S. are well known throughout the Midlands and have played courses such as Little Aston, Moseley, Blackwell, Moor Hall, Edgbaston, Beaudesert, Enville, South Staffs, Keddleston Park to name just a few. A major highlight of each season is our National Event which takes place in September, traditionally Woodhall Spa. On this occasion, all sections compete both individually and as a team for many original trophies.
Midlands Winner at Woodhall
Our season of events begins in April through to October featuring courses which vary each year and, with the exception of our Christmas Cracker in December are generally played in the afternoon followed by Dinner, awards and prizes. I extend a big thank you to the sponsors of each these events. We also encourage our members to bring along visitors and are actively seeking newcomers to join the society. These days we do not insist on potential members being associated with the plastics industry. Please do visit our website www.thepigs.co.uk and get a feel for what we are about.
President Captain
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Len Strong. Midlands & National Secretary PIGS
PIGS new president
Warwickshire Teachers’ GS
The Warwickshire Teachers’ Golf Society have 6 competitions per year, all played at various different courses around Warwickshire (and the surrounding counties occasionally!). We are always looking to recruit new members and guests – anyone that works or has worked in an educational establishment (not just teachers and not just Warwickshire!).
Our focus is on fun and friendly competitions – all abilities and ages are welcome. Anybody interested in coming along for a game or becoming a member should contact wtgsociety@gmail.com or visit twitter.com/wtgsociety Our next fixtures are at Oakridge on October 27th & Kilworth Springs on January 4th.
The Society was formed in 1974 by a group of teachers in North Warwickshire met to form a nomadic golfing society. Numbers were small and all members either belonged to Nuneaton GC or Atherstone GC.
As well as the 6 in-house competitions per year, since 1975 the society has played an annual match against Nuneaton GC. Records since 1989 show Nuneaton to be leading the way with 15 wins to WTGS’ 6. 6 matches have also been drawn.
In 1998 the North Warwickshire Teachers’ Golf Society changed it’s name to the current Warwickshire Teachers’ Golf Society as by this time a number of members had joined from the south of the county.
In 2005 the secretary of the society, Adrian Richards, died just prior to his retirement. He was also a member of Nuneaton GC. The annual match against Nuneaton is now played for the Adrian Richards Trophy
2017 society roles:
Captain – Callum Peake
Vice captain – Adam Newell
Treasurer – Dave Wilkins
Secretaries – Dave Wilkins & Keith Rawlins
2015 captain Wilf Feely provides plenty of entertainment. He has turned up at the wrong course, and on the wrong date, and his jokes during his speeches in his captaincy year were not for the faint-hearted! The most successful players over the past decade are Dennis James and Keith Rawlins, too many trophies to remember and constant calls for handicap cuts!
WAC Golf Society
WAC Golf Society (Worcester)
By Beefy and Lamby (co-organisers)
We just love playing golf and enjoy the laughter on the fairways. The WAC Golf Society play out of Bransford Golf Club based on the outskirts of Worcester, a great Par 72 lake jewelled course in superb condition. We were formed in 2013 by Dave Broad and Dave Lamb (aka Beefy and Lamby, below) with the intention to take fellow club golfers to play some of the best courses around the Midlands and beyond. We wanted to support charities and over the past few years we have raised £1000s for Cancer charities in the UK.
Our society members have grown from a handful to over 35 players currently, we have played some of the best courses around including The Belfry, The Forest of Arden, The Astbury, The Vale at Evesham and have enjoyed weekend away trips to St Pier Golf Club and the Vale of Glamorgan. We have also played at Celtic Manor, Gleneagles and St Andrews Old Course.
We run an annual trip to Okehampton, Devon where we play 90 holes of Golf over four very competitive and fun days, plenty of prizes on offer including an Order of Merit and numbers grow each year for this event.
Our main aim is for club golfers to experience other courses, as well as having like-minded and friendly banter that group golf can achieve. We aim to keep costs down to around £20-30 for our local Midlands rounds and enjoy playing local courses every year such as Cleobury Mortimer and Burghill Valley who treat us very well and provide some superb deals.
We have a Twitter (@WACgolfsociety) and a Facebook page and have recently started our very own YouTube channel.
2018 is shaping up to be a great season for WAC events, please visit our web site at www.wacgolfsociety.com to find out how you can join us on some great days out.
Contact Details:
Dave Broad – Email: d-broad@sky.com Tel: 07846 233190
Dave Lamb – Email: davelamb@mail.com Tel: 07429 192646
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Tag Archive for: Midlands
Ladies Golf
Welcome to our Ladies Golf section. Midlands Golfer magazine supports golf clubs and businesses in the region and in doing so we are forging ever stronger links with the ladies sections, the female PGA professionals and the many lady golfing academies that are promisingly increasing in size all of the time.
I represent you and your activities, for instance, have you started a new ladies academy or are you running a charity event? Has your club done well in a regional or national ladies competition? And how about ladies’ course records and even holes-in-ones? I’d like to hear about all of your achievements and I’m always happy to come and visit.
Our own Midlands Golfer Amateur Ladies Society are known as the MGALS. To date we have 70 ladies on our books and are on the way to becoming the biggest ladies golf society in the UK.
We’ve also developed them into mixed pairs events as well to get the hubbys involved and the majority of the competitions now offer an overnight stay too.
MGALS 2024 – After successfully hosting regular two day events in recent times, we’re now planning a further 36 hole play and stay adventures in 2024 across the Midlands.
Details of where and when soon, visit the events page for venue news, formats and how to enter them. A guarantee, they are not to be missed.
MIDLANDS LADIES GOLF NEWS
Please contact me if you have any ladies golfing news of interest that we can publish right here, and in the magazine itself.
Contact Mandy – ladyeditor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/image_67187969-scaled.jpg 2560 1920 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-11-18 18:39:182023-11-18 18:39:18Seventh (grand) heaven for Steph’s year of captaincy
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Walsall-ladies-cakes.jpg 1271 949 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-11-13 12:53:322023-11-13 12:53:32European ladies triumph at Walsall’s Solheim Cup
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Walmley-ladies-1.jpg 691 887 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-11-13 12:35:552023-11-13 12:35:55Walmley and Rugby ladies have much to celebrate
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Extra-Maureen-image-GAOTM.jpg 591 886 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-09-06 11:07:562023-09-06 11:07:56A SPECIAL NIGHT FOR MAUREEN AT WOMEN IN GOLF AWARDS
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Borders-1.jpeg 1666 2048 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-06-15 20:32:512023-11-18 19:32:56MGALS Spring 2024 – at The Nottinghamshire
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Borders-2.jpeg 1536 2048 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2022-10-07 17:27:302022-10-10 20:58:44The MGALS and the Borders Challenge
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/SC10.jpg 1536 2048 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2021-09-13 23:51:252021-09-14 22:40:58Society Championship 2021 – Ladies Golf Rocks at Gaudet Luce
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Arden10.jpg 1152 2048 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2019-10-16 22:16:532020-06-06 12:28:33A perfect golfing day out – at Ardencote
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/lea-marston-23rd-march-18-7-1000x500.jpg 500 1000 Karen Sutton https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Karen Sutton2018-08-31 16:48:072018-08-31 16:48:07LEA MAR-VELLOUS – A SPECIAL DAYWelcome to our Ladies Golf section. Midlands Golfer magazine supports golf clubs and businesses in the region and in doing so we are forging ever stronger links with the ladies sections, the female PGA professionals and the many lady golfing academies that are promisingly increasing in size all of the time.
I represent you and your activities, for instance, have you started a new ladies academy or are you running a charity event? Has your club done well in a regional or national ladies competition? And how about ladies’ course records and even holes-in-ones? I’d like to hear about all of your achievements and I’m always happy to come and visit.
Our own Midlands Golfer Amateur Ladies Society are known as the MGALS. To date we have 70 ladies on our books and are on the way to becoming the biggest ladies golf society in the UK.
We’ve also developed them into mixed pairs events as well to get the hubbys involved and the majority of the competitions now offer an overnight stay too.
MGALS 2024 – After successfully hosting regular two day events in recent times, we’re now planning a further 36 hole play and stay adventures in 2024 across the Midlands.
Details of where and when soon, visit the events page for venue news, formats and how to enter them. A guarantee, they are not to be missed.
MIDLANDS LADIES GOLF NEWS
Please contact me if you have any ladies golfing news of interest that we can publish right here, and in the magazine itself.
Contact Mandy – ladyeditor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/image_67187969-scaled.jpg 2560 1920 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-11-18 18:39:182023-11-18 18:39:18Seventh (grand) heaven for Steph’s year of captaincy https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Walsall-ladies-cakes.jpg 1271 949 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-11-13 12:53:322023-11-13 12:53:32European ladies triumph at Walsall’s Solheim Cup https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Walmley-ladies-1.jpg 691 887 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-11-13 12:35:552023-11-13 12:35:55Walmley and Rugby ladies have much to celebrate https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Extra-Maureen-image-GAOTM.jpg 591 886 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-09-06 11:07:562023-09-06 11:07:56A SPECIAL NIGHT FOR MAUREEN AT WOMEN IN GOLF AWARDS https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Borders-1.jpeg 1666 2048 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-06-15 20:32:512023-11-18 19:32:56MGALS Spring 2024 – at The Nottinghamshire https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Borders-2.jpeg 1536 2048 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2022-10-07 17:27:302022-10-10 20:58:44The MGALS and the Borders Challenge https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/SC10.jpg 1536 2048 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2021-09-13 23:51:252021-09-14 22:40:58Society Championship 2021 – Ladies Golf Rocks at Gaudet Luce https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Arden10.jpg 1152 2048 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2019-10-16 22:16:532020-06-06 12:28:33A perfect golfing day out – at Ardencote https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/lea-marston-23rd-march-18-7-1000x500.jpg 500 1000 Karen Sutton https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Karen Sutton2018-08-31 16:48:072018-08-31 16:48:07LEA MAR-VELLOUS – A SPECIAL DAYHome
THE LATEST GOLFING NEWS FROM AROUND THE REGION
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/ben.png 560 960 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-11-29 12:01:542023-11-29 12:01:54Enville star Bolton crowned Faldo Series champion in UAE
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Screenshot_20231127_124819_Word.jpg 686 918 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-11-27 13:03:062023-11-27 13:03:06The Baffy
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Futures-Tour-2-1-scaled.jpg 941 2560 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-11-18 19:17:122023-11-18 19:17:12Derbyshire Futures and Next Gen Tour 2023
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Young-Ambassadors-3.jpg 1877 2048 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-11-18 18:58:042023-11-18 18:58:04The Young Ambassadors – Black History Month https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/image_67187969-scaled.jpg 2560 1920 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-11-18 18:39:182023-11-18 18:39:18Seventh (grand) heaven for Steph’s year of captaincy
https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Leek-Centenary-pic-2.jpg 825 1100 Midlands Golfer https://midlandsgolfer.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/midgolfer-new.jpg Midlands Golfer2023-11-15 16:53:262023-11-15 16:53:26A Centenary Tale – Leek GC 1923-2023Take a look around…
SGA Tour – Tour Championship 2018
Sociable Golf Association (SGA)
Season Finale ends with a Bang!
Once again, we planned our season ending Tour Championship event on recommendation from our friends at MG. Heading over the Warwickshire border for a two-day weekend, with overnighter, to Whitefields Golf Club.
With our very own Race To Whitefields season long points system, the two day event provides the opportunity for members to decide on either a drunken evening or early to bed in preparation for the chance to secure our third and final major of the season.
Following a fantastic trip to Cleobury Mortimer last year, the boys were up for the challenge and with the sun shining and a very warm welcome from all the staff at Whitefields, we were excited at the prospect of another close finish, little did we know!
Phil Wing (above R) stood on the first tee in defence of his title, knowing that lack of golf during this season due to work and family commitments, could prove to be his downfall. Other notables included in form Andrew Allsopp, Ben Abbotts and Jayson Fitzpatrick. With our lowest handicapper, Karl Harris (2) not attending, Boom Boom’s book provided no clear favourite with odds spread evenly across the field.
With first day groups drawn, competitors aim to secure a second day final grouping, thus having the advantage of viewing the leader-boards throughout the final day’s play. Ben Abbotts secured first place with 37 points, with Boom Boom Tunstall 36 and Phil Wing 34. All three headed to the bar knowing the Sunday would see the last tee time.
For any of our society friends considering Whitefields, we would recommend a visit. The facilities, course and staff were excellent and all at great value for money.
The Sunday morning provided another beautiful day and enjoying a great breakfast we all headed of the first tee. Nerves were apparent with the leaders gagging to get going, but knowing they had to wait for their tee time. Would Boom Boom live up to his nickname and hit driver off every tee or play a more considered game! A wide drive on the first was the answer both Ben & Phil expected who secured gross par’s to set the day up nicely.
During the day the leader-board ebbed and flowed with Ben & Boom battling it out. Phil lost the pace and Trevor Anderson muscled his way into the top 3. Heading to the 17th tee and a complete surprise to the leaders, Paul Wilson had shot the lights out and was leading the championship. Paul had come from behind at Cleobury to lose out by a single point!. Unsettling Boom Boom, his drive hooked out of bounds, twice!! With Ben & Phil closing the gap.
Stood on the 18th tee and a short 324 yard par 4, Boom Boom needed a 3 pointer to land his first Tour Championship and took out his wayward driver to the dismay of Ben & Phil, who had already hit hybrids to perfect positions. Yes, you’ve guessed it…. a wayward drive to the right (this time!) and Boom Boom was lucky to have swing amongst the trees. In true style, he cleared the trouble before him and was once again back in play. A 12-foot putt for the win lipped and the rest is history. Paul (Pic R), known as the Silent Assassin went one better than 2017 and took the title on count-back! Boom Boom’s driver was last seen on EBAY…
Season events
In addition to the planned and quite often an organisers nightmare, we run several season long events including our Order Of Merit, the coveted Match Play Championship and other events as follows:
The Order Of Merit is a 10 event rolling ranking event that captures the previous season’s Tour Championship and the full season ahead. The calculation although complicated is simple in terms of understanding, play your best at every event ensuring your average score is as high as possible. Throwing an event or even a club, will see you penalised in the long run in and in some cases, could lead losing the number 1 spot by a single putt or chip in! And yes its happened.
The Matchplay Championship is a knockout event with the draw made at the first event of the season. The final pairing are provided with caddies and a special day out.
Betterball Championship and Skins League are additional events that utilise the monthly events scoring to calculate the league tables or knockout rounds. Members’ just rock up and the committee do the rest and if the lads ever read the website, they should know if they’ve took home a trophy at the season end.
There are obviously many, many fond and enjoyable memories from the last 22 years and in most cases we have improved our personal handicaps. We continue to raise money for great causes; our fund-raising exceeds £5,000 including a memorable six a side football competition a few years back.
We continue to organise and enjoy Society life and many friendships have been built through our membership. We look forward to the next twenty years.
SGA Tour – Sociable Golf Association – Established 1997
Website: www.sgatournews.com
Email: sgatournews@hotmail.co.uk
Contact: Phil Wing 07486 900843 (Work – 07917 098299)
Founder Members – Phil Wing & Alan Smith
PTF Golf Society – Derby
Production Test Facility Golf Society
Our society was founded in 1991 by employees from the Production Test Facility (PTF) at Rolls-Royce Aero Engines in Derby.
2018 Mid-Season Review
2018’s busy calendar of events and Darren ‘Dash’ Ashmole’s year on the Captain’s throne was planned to start as ever at Morley Hayes over the Christmas break. However, torrential rain and frozen greens forced an abandonment of the event after just a few holes and saw an early return to the nineteenth hole. The weather relented slightly by mid-January for the re-arranged fixture with ‘Long’ Tom Donnachie just pipping Paul ‘PK’ Hind to the ‘Winter Warmer’ Trophy after back 9 count-back both finishing on 35 points.
The unseasonal weather took a further turn for the worst over the Easter weekend as 3 inches of snow in the Peak District forced the postponement of our first full day out of the season at the picturesque Buxton & High Peak. The re-scheduled event in late-April was played in miserable conditions and saw point scoring prove difficult with Joe Cullen winning the Spring Salver on his Society debut with 32 points.
A short trip to Chilwell Manor quickly followed in early May as at last we saw some sunshine to proudly show off our new and improved Society Golf Shirts supplied by Midlands Golf Superstore (thanks to Ian Nicholson) and also sporting the Midlands Golfer magazine logo.
Sec Nathan rocking the new MG logoed shirt
Blustery conditions and tight, tree-lined fairways saw another low point scoring day but a solid performance from Todd Foster winning the Presidents Cup on 34 points
The PTF Invitational event took place at Ormonde Fields in early June with the Divisional prize pots shared evenly between members and guests alike but it was the ever consistent Rob Langley who triumphed overall with 37 points to win the Invitational Trophy for a second successive season.
The heatwave had well and truly kicked in by early July for our latest event along the A50 in Staffordshire at the impressive Newcastle-under-Lyme. Greens in great condition considering the ‘Mediterranean’ temperatures and scorched fairways with the ball travelling huge distances saw the highest scoring of the season with the ‘Alvaston Maori’ aka Ian Hickton storming to victory with 40 points to lift the Summer Vase.
PTF – In Scarborough
The upcoming ‘Weekend Away’ in early August was the highlight of everyone’s season and saw 24 of us travel up to stay in Scarborough for a third time where we played the ‘Friday Fiver’ at Filey, the main ‘Tourist Trophy’ event at South Cliff and Sunday’s closing event at Whitby.
The in-form Ian Hickton currently stands at the top of our ‘Order of Merit’ with 124 points however with the best four scores counting towards the Aggregate Trophy it’s still all to play for with the final ‘Order of Merit event taking place with our visit to nearby Burton-on-Trent in early September.
A close of season reoprt will be added very soon.
Please visit our website at the address below where you can find 2018’s full results and all Society news in PK’s newsletter’s which are a very entertaining read from the society jester. http://www.spanglefish.com/ptfgolfsociety/index.asp
For all enquiries please contact the PTF Golf Society Secretary: nathan.richards@rolls-royce.com
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Bell GS – 59 years young
We are the Bell Golfing Society, founded in 1959 by 4 members of Moseley Rugby Club. I believe we may be the oldest golfing society, still playing in the Midlands, if not the country.
We adopted the name from The Bell, Harborne, Birmingham. Every Monday evening, during the summer, it was 9 holes at Harborne Church Farm, then up to The Bell for beer, banter and dominoes. This continued for 25 years before switching allegiance to Warley Woods, where we were warmly received by David Owen, Warley Woods golf professional. Our monthly golf days were to Shifnal, Brocton, Stratford and our traditional end of season visit to Aberdovey Golf Club, in October for a weekend of golf and merriment, accompanied of course by our very talented pianist, Roy Hurdman.
Although our Monday evening game is no longer, we more than make up for it with monthly visits to Midland courses such as Fulford Heath, Hagley, Ladbrook Park, Kings Norton and others.
Our biggest claim to fame is providing not 1 but 2 captains of the British Left Hander Golfers Association, namely Barry Packwood and Roger Stansfield.
Jeremy Smart is our current President and together with Mike Bunn, organise our annual programme and keep us solvent.
Army Golf Association (West Midlands)
The Army Golf Association (AGA) was established in 1974 to include Officers and Soldiers serving in the Army, regular or retired. Reserves were introduced in 2011 and to date including the civilians based in Army establishments, the AGA has 1800 members.
The AGA (WM) society was started in 2016 and in its debut year plus last year’s events has built up its numbers to 98 golfers. It has an active following on Facebook and is looking to expand its calendar to include some match plays against other clubs and societies.
At present seven meetings per annum are held to include the season opener, spring, summer, autumn and winter meets plus a matchplay event (including a plate competition) and a team of six enter the AGA Inter-Regional event held nationally.
This year the season opener took place at Calderfields G&CC in March with the spring meeting recently held at Shifnal GC, and the summer meet will be at the Shropshire GC in July. The matchplay is in its early rounds with the finals to be held at Beau Desert later in the summer. The autumn and winter meetings are yet to be confirmed.
SSgt Aidi Bennett and Sgt Marcus Murcott are the secretaries for the AGA (WM) society and where possible would welcome some sponsorship and new members.
Contact details email: wmsec@armygolf.co.uk
Archie’s coast to coast challenge
Derbyshire based junior golfer Archie Qualtrough is preparing for a daunting fundraising challenge to become the first person to hit a golf ball from coast to coast.
The 11-year-old, who plays off a 16 handicap, is aiming to raise much-needed cash and awareness for four charities in memory of two High Peak sporting youngsters.
Archie, who last year raised over £2,500 for the same causes by playing 100 holes during one soaking High Peak day (below), has planned a five-day, 83-mile route using 15 golf courses from Maryport GC on the west coast of England to Tynemouth GC on the east coast.
The cross-country challenge is to start on Monday, May 28, and primary school pupil Archie expects it will take five days to complete.
Archie, who is a member of the Derbyshire Under 14 squad and plays his golf at Woodhall Spa, came up with the idea at the end of last year and worked out the path along the approximate route of Hadrian’s Wall.
He told Midlands Golfer magazine: “It’s going to be very tough but I’m confident I can complete the challenge – I’ve been busy building my fitness level and I’m in the gym or out on the course every day.
“I was amazed by the support I received last year and knew I had to do something similar again to raise money and awareness for the four charities that mean a lot to me and the people around me.”
Archive is hoping to raise £6,000 in memory of Ben Strollery and Charlie Craig that is donated through his JustGiving page to YoungMinds, Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), Finlay Cooper Foundation and The Golf Foundation.
Mum Anna says Archie is looking for the support of golf companies to help him achieve his aim.
“Each of the first four days will be dedicated to each of the charities and Archie is hoping to use social media to highlight their work and how they benefit and support young people,” she added.
“Any help in spreading the messages to a wider audience would help enormously.”
Archie will be sending a daily diary of his challenge to Midlands Golfer for readers to follow his route across the country.
Main image – Archie with his Woodhall Spa coach Neil Harvey
Flexible approach pays off for C&B
Golf is changing and memberships are changing too as clubs move to meet the needs of the modern golfer.
Churchill & Blakedown Golf Club, a traditional private members’ club founded in 1926, has embraced a new flexible membership category to increase choice for golfers.
And, nearing the first anniversary since C&B launched its Flex-Up membership, it’s fair to say it has been a huge success.
With nearly 70 members signed up across its three packages, Flex-Up is going from strength to strength and has complemented the traditional full membership categories.
Flex-Up membership was the idea of the club’s PGA professionals Angus Hoare and Phil Lathwood.
Churchill and Blakedown Golf Club
Aimed at attracting new members and generating revenue during the club’s quieter times, it has given a range of golfers the opportunity to become involved at this picturesque course in north Worcestershire.
Flex-Up has proved ideal both for beginners just getting into the game who perhaps don’t want to commit to full membership fees yet or more established golfers who love golf but simply don’t have the time to justify full membership at this point in their lives.
Among those to fall into the starter category is Julie Yardley who has been playing for a year and also has regular coaching with Phil.
Phil Lathwood and Julie Yardley.
Julie became the 50th Flex-Up member and the membership has ignited a love affair with golf.
“As someone who works I have limited time so can only play once or twice a week at most so Flex-Up is ideal,” she said. “I started to play last year because my husband plays and once I had a go I fell in love with golf. I’ve been made to feel very welcome at Churchill and Blakedown and my game has come on massively with Phil’s help so I’m really enjoying the Flex-Up experience.”
Flex-Up is points-based with three packages – 60, 120 or 210 points.
While not carrying the benefits of full membership it is sufficient to meet the needs of many who still hanker after the golf club environment and they can also play in Stablefords and medals.
The club’s long-term aim is to encourage Flex-Up members to move up to full membership which several have already done but in the meantime it has proved invaluable in getting more golfers into C&B which can only be of benefit to all concerned.
If you are interested in Flex-Up or just getting into golf call Angus or Phil in the pro shop on 01562 700454 and find out more.
Alternatively see https://churchillblakedowngolfclub.co.uk/membership/flex-up-membership/
Main Image: Golfers on the 3rd
Sky Sports put C&B in the spotlight
It was a case of lights, cameras, action at Churchill & Blakedown Golf Club as Sky Sports came to film head PGA pro Angus Hoare and two of his talented charges in the summer.
Brothers Brandon Sarfo, aged 16, and Hayden, eight, are long-standing pupils of Angus and have both been capturing the golfing headlines.
Older brother Brandon, who plays off three, is part of the England Midland Training Squad U18s squad while Hayden qualified and recently shone in the World Junior Golf Championships in San Diego in July.
Haydn has a 22 handicap and has been wowing coaches and members alike with his smooth swing and golfing skills.
Sky Sports presenter Kirsty Edwards and cameraman spent three hours at the club where they filmed the juniors in action while also speaking to dad Claude and Angus.
“I’ve been working with Brandon for four years and Hayden for two years,” said Angus.
“Hayden qualifying for the World Junior Golf Championships attracted a lot of media attention. He already plays off 22 which is really pretty impressive for an eight year old and I think he could go all the way.
Hayden Sarfo
“I love coaching both the boys. With Hayden we work a lot on the fundamentals. He swings it lovely but if the fundamentals breakdown that is when the bad shots come so we work a lot on grip, posture and alignment.”
Churchill & Blakedown is making great strides in growing its juniors section with 30 on its books.
Angus, who is a PGA Advanced Professional, and fellow PGA pro Phil Lathwood are both passionate about encouraging more juniors into golf and welcomed the chance to showcase the club.
Angus Hoare – Sky Sports
“We host a lot of coaching programmes at Churchill & Blakedown and also do a lot of out reach work in schools and also adults centres for those with learning disabilities,” added Angus.
“Golf is a great game for kids, both for the health and well-being of being outside but also for teaching them about life-skills. The more we can get playing the better.”
Any parents interested in getting their children into golf can call Angus and Phil on 01562 70045 4to find out more.
Fore Fore Two
Pride of the Midlands
Coming soon – this autumn or spring 2019 – MG will be bringing the rivalry and tension
of football supporting on to the golf course as we’re opening up Stonebridge GC for an event probably never seen before.
We’re looking for fans of 18 Midlands based football clubs to get together a fourball to compete against their traditional football rivals from the region in a loosely based stableford competition with more than a few quirks. Eventually we’ll crown a champion club, plus other team and individual winners too. All 18 tees on the Blythe and Hampton courses will be bedecked in one team’s colours as every football club will have a ‘home’ tee. Plus we’ll introduce something directly involving each club’s traditional local rival as well to increase the rivalry factor even further. There will be many other quirks and mini competitions held on the day too – this will be far from a normal golfing competition.
The basic details are as follows:
Registration – Bridge Suite plus Bacon Rolls/Coffee/Tea on arrival at 9.30 am
Shotgun start Blythe/Hampton courses 11 am
Late afternoon two course dinner
Prize presentation
Cost – £33 per player
We are looking for golfers to represent the following football clubs:
WBA – Wolves – Aston Villa – Birmingham City – Notts Forest – Notts County – Derby County – Burton – Leicester City – Coventry City – Shrewsbury Town – Walsall – Kidderminster Harriers – Northampton Town – Mansfield – Chesterfield – Stoke City – Port Vale
If you are a fan of one of these clubs or a society with strong allegiances to one of the above, we want to hear from you.
Dress code – All players are encouraged to wear football club polo shirts and also bring scarves, hats, pennants, flags etc to decorate their home tees.
Main prize – a fourball trip to Ireland courtesy of Club Choice Ireland
Further details to come but we’re taking applications to play in this event now. Please fill in the expression of interest form below and we’ll get back to you with confirmation of entry in due course.
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Zoom Aqua: Perfect fit in all weathers
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Developed with Austrian Tour player Marcus Brier, ZOOM technology gives fantastic shot feedback due to its ‘second skin’ characteristics. Now for 2018, with the introduction of the AQUA Control, ZOOM has a glove that fits every golfer and every golfing occasion.
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The Aqua Control combines breathable Lycra material with premium kangaroo leather to provide a glove that is twice as durable, fits all sizes, and delivers incredible grip in dry conditions that is matched by its performance in the wet. This innovative blend of technology also benefits from ZOOM Shape-Fit which maintains the perfect shape of the glove, staying wrinkle free round after round and providing a perfectly secure connection to the club.
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In addition to the most modern technology, ZOOM gloves feature several colour combinations that make them stand out from the crowd. With all weather performance, lasting durability, multiple colour combinations and one size that fits all, ZOOM AQUA Control really is the best fit for every golfer.
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Media Enquiries: David Wheatley, Medi8
E: david@medi8ltd.co.uk M: +44 (0) 7740 684568
Major award for Anders
Golf coach Anders Mankert, who changes lives through the sport, was honoured last night with England Golf’s Lifetime Service Award, sponsored by Bridgestone.
Mankert, from Cosby Golf Club, Leicestershire, was recognised at the England Golf Awards at the Royal Lancaster London, which highlighted all that’s great about golf in England.
Mankert was celebrated for the difference he has made to blind and visually impaired golfers and to young players making their way in the game.
Guests at the glittering, black tie event – including influential figures from across the sport, volunteers, coaches, clubs and counties – applauded Mankert for his remarkable volunteer contributions which span more than two decades.
He was nominated by blind students who put him forward for “being a unique inspiration and primarily for introducing us to the sport which has changed our life!” The judges agreed, commenting: “Anders has literally given time, expertise and selfless dedication over 20 years, helping to extend the game’s inclusivity.”
Mankert said of his award: “It’s not why I do it, but it’s a lovely, lovely thing to be recognised for your efforts and to know that people actually care. It’s quite humbling and it’s the most amazing thing that has happened in my career.”
His story begins back in the mid-1990s when he saw a group of blind and visually impaired players making weekly visits to a golf range. He realised he could help them, tentatively offered his services and has been working with them, and others, ever since, without charging a penny. “We have just carried on for the next 20 years!” he said.
Mankert, an Advanced Fellow of the PGA and an honorary life member of the England and Wales Blind Golf Association, does far more than teach the technical skills. When one of his students was unable to find an all-important guide to accompany him on the course, he persuaded a local newspaper to feature the blind golfer – with the result that 17 people volunteered to help.
When other students, often unable to work, cannot afford golf club subscriptions he contacts local clubs to ask if they will waive their fees. Some willingly open their doors, but it can also be a tough task – Mankert wrote to 15 clubs on behalf of one player and didn’t receive a single reply.
But the setbacks are far outweighed by the achievements. The player who was very depressed after losing his sight overnight and is now British No 1, has competed in world championships and counts Mankert as a personal friend. The visually impaired girl who is now able to play weekly golf with her dad. The young offender who almost blinded his victim with a shot from an air rifle and was ordered by a judge to act as a blind person’s carer for a week. “It was genius,” said Mankert, who described how the surly, unhelpful young man transformed into a phenomenal carer.
There’s also satisfaction achieved by player after player. “It strikes me that golf must be the hardest possible game for a blind person to take up,” said Mankert. “But I think they feel that if they can play golf and see some progress they can pretty much have a go at anything and you can see their confidence growing.”
There’s also satisfaction for Mankert. “I get masses out of this. I have really enjoyed it, it’s very rewarding to see how something small on my part, giving up a little bit of time, has had such a tremendous impact. It’s unbelievable.”
Mankert also runs a scholarship programme offering young golfers the opportunity to work like a tour pro for a year. They receive unlimited coaching and mentoring from Mankert together with support from specialists such as a physiotherapist and a dietician.
He’s just awarded his sixth scholarship, selecting the winner from 387 applicants from across the country. One of his former protégées, Ryan Evans, is now a European Tour player, and another is a PGA professional, while all have improved their golf and grown personally and in confidence.
“When I was young lots of people helped me and so it’s quite important to give a bit back, it just feels the right thing to do,” said Mankert.
Main feature image: Anders Mankert (left) receives his award from Stuart Attfield on behalf of event sponsors Bridgestone.
New Rushcliffe challenge for Marc
The Rushcliffe Golf Club has recently appointed a new Club Manager. Marc Valentine, 27 years old from Loughborough, has been tasked with building on the fantastic work that has taken place at The Rushcliffe Golf Club over the last few years.
Alongside a fantastic course, The Rushcliffe Golf Club has a brilliant set of staff members with passionate Greenstaff and Golf Pro who work tirelessly for the good of the Club.
Marc Valentine
Having previously worked in a business development role for a leading University, Marc brings with him a skill set focused on business engagement, social media marketing and events management. In his previous role he was responsible for engaging with some of the largest organisations in the world and directly contributed to the organisation and running of the UK’s largest university careers fair, an event which catered for over 240 organisations and 7,000 students.
Marc is passionate about developing the The Rushcliffe Golf Club brand and embracing technology in order to do so. His aim is to secure the long-term future success of the Club by continuing to develop the fantastic golfing product and facilities available.
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DOGS (Dallington Old Boys)
Dallington Old Boys Golf Society or “DOGS” as we call ourselves were founded in November 2016 and are based around the Northamptonshire region.
We started as a core group of friends in and around our 30s who were finding it ever harder to stay in touch on a regular basis amongst the daily grind and family commitments. DOGS was born. With a founding membership of 21 we’ve already grown by over a third in just over a year which is a fantastic achievement from everyone involved.
We’re proudly run by a committee of Kelvin “Dad” Longrigg – who looks after the core running of the society as Captain and Secretary, Glen “DD” Smith – Vice Captain and Treasurer who helps ensure event days run like clockwork, Stuart “Jarv” Wiseman – the brains behind our league tables and handicap adjustments. Alex “Sharky” Parkinson manages our social media channels “tweeting, following, and YouTubing” his heart out hoping that one day we’ll get a complimentary invite to Augusta J. Then we have Mr. Phil “Fines Master esq” Martin who, with sniper like precision polices the society rules with the proceeds helping to fund our social events. We’re also very proud to donate a portion of our fines to charity each year and for 2018 we’ve selected Cancer Research as the beneficiary.
We are a band of builders, sales folk, recruiters, architects, designers, electricians, not to mention a few members of the #Hashtagutd celebrity YouTube football team – all of us bound by our common interest in golf.
And it would be remiss to not give a special mention to our northern/southern @madebygav with a backswing that would beguile the most experienced contortionist – naturally he’s known as “The Whirlwind”. We think he’s one of the longest hitters on tour, it’s just that we’re never really sure which way it’s going off the tee!
Playing courses in and around the Northamptonshire/Midlands area our curtain closer was hosted by the Belfry on the Brabazon course capping a hugely successful first season. Some notably enjoyable courses have been Collingtree Park, Staverton Park and Whittlebury Park, each providing their own quirks and challenges.
In terms of competitions, we run season long stableford and match play leagues. Interestingly, since our inaugural event we are still yet to see a double winner!! The stableford league is the bread and butter of accolades with the overall winner presented with the Stephen Fairbrother Order of Merit trophy (below) – in memory of our good friend “Fairy” who sadly passed away in 2008 at the age of 24, way way before his time. He keeps the weather good for us! Ironically, the first Order of Merit was won by none other than “Dad” himself having been taken right to the wire at the last event by Vice Captain DD. 2018 promises to be an equally competitive affair as the race to being crowned 2018 OoM Champion hots up again with the promise of the winner’s name etched into DOGS folklore.
In addition to the season long leagues we also run individual event prizes; the usual NP/LDs plus various special prizes such as “Par 5 Hero (best cumulative par 5 scores)” and “Connect 4 (best 4 holes in a row)” amongst others with current front runners lit up on the special prize leaderboard.
New for 2018 will also see us running some golf “skills schools” such as freestyling, chipping challenges etc. which we’ll be posting on our social media channels for a bit of fun.
So what does the future hold for DOGS? We’re still a young society and are always looking for ways to improve. We regularly run surveys seeking feedback on how we are run, the courses we play, hospitality etc. We also like to share this feedback with our hosts. Aside from continuing to invest in our main objective of promoting friendships through the enjoyment of the game we’d like to increase our membershipand grow our DOGS brand to become synonymous with being one of the most attractive golf societies in and around the Northampton area.
If you are interested in becoming a DOG – please get in touch via email at dogsgolfers@gmail.com or via one of our social media channels @dogsgolfsociety. Similarly, if you’re a golfing venue and would be interested in hosting us as a society please get in touch
Duca Del Cosma NEW shoe range
DUCA DEL COSMA RELEASES EXCITING NEW SHOE RANGE
-Premium Italian brand offers lifestyle designs for on & off course wear-
The Italian fashion brand Duca del Cosma that pioneered ultra-lightweight spikeless golf shoes more than a decade ago, is releasing an eye-catching new range of premium golf shoes for Spring 2018 that can be worn both on and off the course.
Bold, classy, elegant and sporty – the brand philosophy is represented in a distinctive collection for men and women that takes its inspiration from award-winning Italian design combined with amazing attention to detail.
The latest range features stylish options incorporating new designs and colourways, plus state-of-the-art shoe technology.
Leading styles for men include the Camelot (White/Lemon), Kuba (White/Red/Green) and the La Spezia (White/Orange); while the women’s collection also boasts top-of-the-line shoes, including the Palm Springs (White/Taupe), Porto Ercole (White/Sand) as well as the Olbia (Gold).
The high class build quality is matched with advanced technology that includes a waterproof microfibre system acting like a breathable protective ‘sock’ within the shoe. The waterproof membrane keeps the foot dry during play and is supported by a soft PU insert sole to provide extra comfort for the duration of the round.
The brand’s innovative SKYFLEX technology outsole is built around an ergonomic design that provides grip during the downswing for a stable strike, while special channels allow the shoe to bend and flex perfectly to the natural roll-off motion of the foot.
“Golfers who try them comment that our shoes are extremely comfortable from the very first time they wear them,” said Tony Eccleston, General Manager for Duca del Cosma in the UK & Ireland. “We pride ourselves on being the brand that pioneered the spikeless golf shoe and we continue to move forward with new shoe technologies, as well as an exceptional range of colours and design styles,” he added.
The lightweight shoes are available in a variety of fashionable colour combinations and to see the full range visit the website: www.ducadelcosma.com
Magazine
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Willowbrook GS
Willowbrook Golf Society
The Society was formed in 2002 by a group of golfers who met casually on a Sunday evening, to ‘chew the weekend fat’ in The Willowbrook Club, a private members social club in Gedling, Nottingham.
The first 3 meetings were informal affairs with 30 or so golfers having days out at Greetham Valley and Morley Hayes Golf Clubs. The WGS was formally made a Society in 2003 and plays midweek – most of us are self-employed or retired – 7 or 8 times a year, starting in late March and running through to early November. We normally play within an hour to hour and a quarters drive away from our headquarters, but have within that radius courses like The Notts Golf Club, Worksop, Coxmoor and Lindrick to chose from, all of which we have played. Membership has reduced over the years, but we have a core of 20 members and usually take around 16 guests to each meeting
We are a mixed ability group, mostly club members from east and north Notts, with handicaps ranging from 5 to 28. Our meetings consist of team events, with an Order of Merit Trophy being awarded at the end of the season on the basis of the average of best five individual Stableford scores attained during the season.
Sec Tony Rogers (r) with the WGS fourball at MG’s Society Classic, Marriott Forest of Arden 2016
Over the years we have raised many thousands of pounds for charities including The Lincs/Notts Air Ambulance, Nottingham Hospice, Panthers Disabled Sports, The Children’s Kidney Ward at The Nottingham City Hospital and in 2015 the society helped our secretary and two other cancer sufferers to raise almost £4,700 for The Teenage Cancer Trust by doing 54-holes in a day – 18 each at Mapperley GC, Ruddington Grange GC and The Nottinghamshire G & CC.
Our first meeting this year will be at Newark at the end of March, and future venues this year include Ullesthorpe Court, Scraptoft, Rufford Park and our only 27-hole day of the year at Belton Park, Grantham.
There is one thing missing from our list of achievements – in 15 years of trying, no one has had ‘A Hole in One’!!!!
Contact details:
Secretary – Tony Rogers – golf@tonyrogers.plus.com
Facebook: Willowbrook Golf Society – Twitter @WillowbrookGS
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Friends Golf Society
Friends Golf Society
As written by Peter Christoforou, a Friend
We celebrated our 10th Anniversary in 2015, not bad going for a society that was formed in 2005 by sixteen friends and relatives, hence the name. Since our inception the society has grown and now boasts a membership of over 40 golfers.
Myself and my close friend Steve Efstathiou run the society, me being the treasurer and Steve the secretary booking the courses with Steve’s son Socratis the handicaps secretary.
Our members are dotted all round the West Midlands, Derby, Nottingham and Leicester so we arrange the courses to fit in with everyone.
We meet once a month on a Wednesday and play seven competitions between March and October with points awarded for the top ten finishes which go towards an Order of Merit table. Prizes and a small trophy are also presented to the top three finishes in each event.
Each event has its own named trophy, the first one we play for is the George Angelides, in memory of one of our founder members. We also have The Founders Cup named after the three founder officers myself ,Steve Efstathiou and my brother Chris Christoforou.
The Order of Merit winner becomes society captain and leads the society the following season in a challenge match against another Midlands society under a Ryder Cup format in May.
Last season we were fortunate to have a sponsor in Double A kebabs, most of our members are in the catering trade and through their suppliers we receive some very welcome financial support.
Over the years we have played on some great courses the most recent one being Northamptonshire County, our other local favourites include Little Aston, Walmley, The Nottinghamshire and Enville. We also treated ourselves this year for the 10th anniversary with a trip to Woburn which was a fantastic occasion and a closely fought event too with double OOM points on offer.
The highlight of the season is the trip abroad, four days in the Algarve with three rounds of golf on some of Europe’s finest courses such as the Old Course in Vilamoura which is everyone’s favourite. The below image shows a group of Friends, off course last year during our trip to The Emporda Forest Golf Club, near Girona, a fabulous break.
Later on in September we always play for the Links Trophy on one of Britains best seaside courses. The Links Trophy and the Founders Cup played over three rounds are classed as majors and carry extra merit points.
We all look forward to meeting up every month to enjoy each others company, its a great day out but very competitive. Those Order of Merit points are well contested because the top twelve play in the Ryder Cup and it’s an event that everyone wants to play in.
We hope the society will continue for many years to come with the younger members taking control after the founder officers retire, so if any golfers who like their golf competitive and having fun on a great day out are keen, come and join the Friends Golf Society.
Take a look at our website www.friendsgolfsociety.co.uk
Our contact numbers are Peter 07967039078 or Steve 07872903230
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Robin Hood GS
The Robin Hood Golf Society – Swannington (Leics)
Robin Hood’s origins started back in the autumn of 2011. Originally formed by Mike Barnett, Andy Hawtin & Kevin Orvis as a means of getting some exercise & thrashing away the pains of the working week. Since those early day the society has grown steadily, with the odd regular leaving or quitting the game, but new blood has kept on coming.
The society now has 32 members all of who play at least two society events per season. The season consists of 10 society events running from February until November. These events enable members to accrue points towards the end of year presentations. A minimum of 7 of the 10 events count towards the player of the season, where the highest average score decides the eventual winner of the Claret Jug.
The monthly events carry prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd places. These prizes range from Polo shirts, Gloves, Balls, Umbrellas & eventually to beer. There is also a prize for last place which is a “turkey hat” of which the unlucky participant has to wear on the 1st tee at the next event. There are also prizes for nearest the pin, longest drive & nearest the pin in two.
Although many of us are club members, the majority are “fair weather” golfers, which in some ways reflects our age span which ranges from 25 – 78 years.
We try to accommodate at least 5 – 6 new golfing venues per season during the so called “better weather” months. In the winter months we mainly stay local, because you never know if the event will be called off at short notice.
During the month of June, we play for the Brian Orvis Memorial Trophy. This trophy was donated by Kevin Orvis in remembrance of his late father, who scored a hole in one at Chevin Golf Club. CGC presented the trophy to Brian for his achievement.
The month of December brings around our “winter warmer” in which we play an 18 hole par 3 course & again a trophy has been produced.
As a society we also try to have two long weekend’s away “stay & play” outings, which normally take place in May & September.
Each society event concludes in our hostelry of residence The Robin Hood, Swannington. Traditional Sunday lunch is provided by our hosts Kevin & Carol, after which the prize giving takes place & a gallon of beer is donated by the landlord.
As a society we have run & participated in charity fund raising events over the past three years for British Heart Foundation, Rainbows & Acorns. The donations have either been individual, as a team or part of organised media, all of which have been run from The Robin Hood.
The social aspect of the society balances the competitiveness of the winning demon within & for those who dedicate their Sunday society day to winning, comes the harsh reality of the handicapper.
RHGS Committee:
- Mike (Rhino) Barnett Chair & Events
- Ian (Villa) Boyes Treasurer
- Paul (Wils) Wilson Handicaps
- Dave (Sticky) Stevenson Captain
www.robinhoodgolfsociety.com or tel: 01530 831137
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
St Thomas Association GS
ERDINGTON STAGS
The Golf Society was formed in February 2000 by golf playing members of St Thomas’ Association in Erdington. The society now boasts over 50 members and we play a range of courses all over the Midlands. Occasionally we trek further afield. We tend to play twice a month and we have a Presidents day and a Captains day – both days usually involve a coach trip which are usually very entertaining in themselves.At least once a year we have a society weekend away which normally consists of a two night stay with three rounds of golf. This year we travelled even further afield than usual to the wonderful courses at La Manga in Spain – it was so successful that we will be booking it again for next year. For this particular trip we even had a STAG return from Australia just to specifically play with us (and to see his family I suppose) – Jim Daly – our Captain’s brother.
Our members handicaps range from scratch to 28 so we have a wide range of players who all encourage each other – as well as berate for the occasional air shot or miss-hit – we still await the society’s first ever hole-in-one!!!
We hold a monthly meeting on the first Friday of every month at the club where we discuss all sorts of matters that have arisen over the past month. This is a great opportunity for us to celebrate the past months victories, any controversial issues and, of course, to socialise with a great bunch of people.
Once a year we hold a charity dance where we raise money for local charities. Past charities have included Acorns, The Norman Laud Association, Help for Heroes, The QE Hospital, The John Taylor Hospice and The Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Since our formation we have raised over £22,500 for local charities.
Our members comprise of people from all walks of life and usually have some outrageous stories to tell. Our current captain is David Logue with his Vice Captain Chris McGrath. Our President is the much respected John Costello and our society secretary is Brendan Reilly. Brendan organises all of our trips and courses that we play at – he’s renowned for rounding the fee for our rounds up!!!
We would love to see some new faces around the society and you can contact us through our website www.
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to The Wall, and in the magazine’s new society section (#No Gimmes), please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
MAGS Staffordshire
The MAGS Society hail from the edge of The Potteries in Staffs and have a membership of over 60 golfers, gathered over the years since their inception back in 2006. Back then it was The Mainwaring Arms as the home base but they are now run from The Sheet Anchor pub just a little further down the road in Baldwins Gate. Phil Lally, one of the founders organises the venues and prizes and Hon Sec Ian Cairns takes care of the organisation of each event.
Every last Thursday in the month, apart from December the MAGS meet for a society day, playing their golf at courses in Staffs, Derbys, Shropshire and Cheshire. The events are limited to a maximum of 36 players and even in the winter months entry is nearly always full. Membership is open to all and handicaps range from six to 28. They’re a pretty competitive bunch and the events are divided into two divisions so that the chances of being in the prizes increases. The total prize fund for each event is 13 individual prizes with an additional kitty for ‘twos’.
MAGS GS – At MG’s Society Classic – Marriott Forest of Arden 2016
They hold year- long competitions to find the Golfer of the Year and a Knock Out Cup. Also included in the monthly schedule are four major comps which include ‘The Welsh Cup’ an annual event played on a course in North Wales. It’s a region the guys are very familiar with as each year 12 golfers take part in the ‘Links and Drinks’ event, three seaside courses and two nights away and there’s also a popular Llandudno weekend that even more members enjoy each year.
The Golfer of the Year is organised to be part of each monthly society day and is based on the best five stableford scores over the year. The Knock Out starts in the Jan/Feb events with the top 32 scoring players going through to the next round and the same format exists in March/April leaving 16 remaining, then it gets whittled down further through the year until the final between the top two which is held at Brocton Hall in the Autumn.
For 2018 as it’s a Ryder Cup year, there will be a special MAGS event around September time based on Ryder style formats.
For more information about the Society go to http://magsgolf.wix.com/mags-golf-society
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
UAB Golf Society
Urban Art Golf Society
The UABGS was formed in 2011 when a collection of patrons from the Jewellery Quarters’ Urban Art Bars (The Red Lion and The Lord Clifden) decided that their golf needed a new sense of purpose, and, some healthy competition.
The drinking society with a golfing problem quickly gathered a steady membership and now ventures out six times a year to clubs all over the Midlands.
Not being attached to a particular golf club, society members and their frequent visitors travel the breadth of the Midlands in search of golfing fulfillment. Recent years have enjoyed trips to Sapey GC, Druids Heath GC, Aston Wood GC and Shrewsbury GC, just to name a few favourites.
A mystery golf course is usually on the card for the final game of the season, which is always followed by the end of season awards ceremony, complete with trophies for the winners and tales of woe from those less fortunate.
Members compete in league and cup competitions, whilst visitors are also invited to take part in longest drive, nearest the pin, the all-important “points sweep”, and, more recently, the group “yellow ball” competition.
The Society emphasis has always been on fun and laughter, with visitors frequently returning as and when they can. Most recently, UABGS returned to Sapey GC for a spectacular day in which the field of 17 attendees were separated by a mere 8 points! A testament to the handicap committee or the modest quality of the golf on show… you decide.
Whilst the Society’s heartbeat is The Red Lion in Birmingham’s famous Jewellery Quarter, the members themselves are spread from Telford to Warwick. Anyone wishing to join us should contact Chairman Tonks (uabgolfscoiety@yahoo.co.uk) or you could always visit one of the pubs and ask for information.
You can also follow UABGS on twitter @uab_golf and facebook.com/UABGOLF
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to The Wall, and/or in the magazine as well in our new society section #NoGimmes, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Leekbrook Travellers GS
Leekbrook Travellers
Midlands Golfer’s own Leekbrook Travellers are a very new golf society, initiated during a drunken pre-Xmas evening at the Travellers Rest pub, just outside Leek in Staffs. We are made up of residents of the local estate and also an equal amount of Leek (Birchall) and Westwood GC members who are just looking for a few extra golfing days out and to try a few new courses in the area that they haven’t come across before.
LTGS are a super sociable group with our aim to run fun and entertaining days out and we genuinely encourage members of all ages and abilities to join us. We currently have 48 members already of which six are ladies.
It’s early days for us all at LTGS, we’re a little bit of a rabble for now, but we’ve made a great start and the rate of new members joining in has been amazing and really exciting. The editor of MG, Phil Nicholas is also the LTGS organiser and encourages the society to take part in magazine based playing events, which they do so to mixed success. This fourball below for instance took 3rd place out of 21 in the MG Society Classic at Marriott Forest of Arden in 2016. Soon we’ll be taking on some of the other MG affiliated groups in Ryder Cup style match ups.
We run events on the last Friday of each month, 12 months of the year. If you live in the Leek/Staffordshire Moorlands area and are interested in fun golfing days out, come and join us, we’d love to hear from you.
Facebook – Leekbrook Travellers Golf Society
Call Phil – 07530 752688
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to The Wall, both in the magazine (#NoGimmes) and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Caribbean Golf Society
The Caribbean Golf Society was formed in Birmingham during the winter months of 2007 when sensible people would usually be at home warming the fire. The idea to form arose out of seeing so many African-Caribbean golfers playing regularly in the region.
The inaugural event took place at the Lickey Hills Golf Club in Birmingham on Good Friday 2007. Fourteen golfers took part in our first event, which turned out to be a very sunny day for the time of the year. We have since held many events across the Midlands with our membership growing from those first fourteen golfers to well over 40 in 2015. We welcome all golfers, you do not have to be of Caribbean origin to become a member.
Our Mission:
- Provide a networking outlet for people in the region
- Utilize golf for personal growth and career advancement
- Provide educational and mentoring programs to improve golfing skills and personable skills to the youth in the region
- Increase the knowledge, self-confidence and enjoyment of the game of golf
The CGS are long standing friends and supporters of Midlands Golfer, the first society we ever covered back in 2010. Long regarded as being one of the best organised and most competitive groups in the region, their typical season takes them all over the Midlands and sometimes further beyond. They also find time to raise vital funds for local charities as well as joining us for our own fund raisers and competitions.
Naturally there’s an Order of Merit title at stake, won in 2017 in great style by Ian Higgins who won three of the season’s main events on his way to the overall title.
There are three England based Caribbean Golf Societies and every year our Birmingham based group take on the other two, based in Bristol and London for the annual ‘three-way’ match, an two-day event that always sees a high level of competitiveness but also a good deal of fun and socialising too.
Find out more about the CGS by visiting the website at www.caribbeangolfsociety.co.uk
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to The Wall, and/or in the magazine in our new society section #NoGimmes, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Dowty Golf Society
DOWTY WOLVERHAMPTON
A couple of years ago due to dwindling numbers the continuation of the very long running Dowty Wolverhampton Golf Society was in doubt. An influx of new members though in 2016 has seen them reach their 57th year in 2018 still prospering. The highlight of the 2017 season was the first ever “weekender”, where 11 of the society’s members travelled to Grantham to play and stay at the excellent Belton Woods complex.
Indeed the weekend proved to be such a success that plans are already in place for 2018’s fixture & there is also talk of a trip abroad, Last season also saw us visit Church Stretton, Ombersley, The Shropshire & Bewdley Pines amongst others. As ever the Society is always looking to welcome new members & although based in Wolverhampton we travel all over The Midlands looking for a good golfing challenge. Most of our fixtures take place on a Friday afternoon (between 1pm and 2pm) so if you are interested in joining us please feel free to contact stuart.davis17@blueyonder.co.uk for more information.
Website: http://www.dowtywolverhamptongolfsociety.co.uk/
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
The Branston Dobbers
THE BRANSTON DOBBERS
Branston Dobbers were formed in early 2014 by a collective looking for a good time while playing the beautiful game of golf. The group was formed by a group of five friends known as the ‘originals’ who like to play and have side bets,banter and a beer after a hard day on the course. This quickly spiralled into the newest up and coming society to hit the Branston Golf & Country Club in many years.
The Dobbers currently have 30 active members from all walks of life including five female members, of which 20 or so play weekly at our regular Saturday 8.30-9am tee times.
The first ‘Major’ of the Dobbers season was the ‘Dead Duck Trophy’ played in May (to commemorate the life of a young duck tragically killed on the course by a rogue ‘snap hook’) which was won by none other than 2014/2015 Captain Stuart Haywood.
As our popularity grew, a second ‘Major’ was pencilled in for the summer to co-incide with Ryder Cup weekend against another society from Branston known as ‘The Squids’ .This attracted a very large crowd to the patio area for the climax which was an 11/11 tie after 2 days of singles and doubles matches. All money raised went to the 2014 Branston Captain’s Charity, Canine Partners.
Apparently – THE best looking society in The Midlands – The Branston Dobbers
The first winter event was played between The Dobbers & the ‘Chicken Club’ (Burton GC society). This event was played at Burton on a brisk Sunday morning with the Dobbers running out winners and taking the trophy home.
Up to date in 2018, the Dobber’s travels have continued, a trip to La Manga in October 2016 was a memorable players and partners occasion. Plus we’ve recently teamed up with another group, The Wolves Supporters GS for a very enjoyable match up at Penn GC.
The Dobbers are looking for other local societies to join up with for friendly matches, get in touch by e-mailing them at branstondobbers@gmail.com
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
Wolves Golf Society
A fan of both Wolves and Golf, we welcome new members to come join us once a month on Saturdays or Sundays.
The society is now into its second year and we would welcome anyone to join FREE of charge, all they have to do is pay to play on the day of the society meeting.we will advertise meetings on our Twitter and Facebook, and if anyone wants to email they can.
We meet on a monthly basis at various Golf Clubs around the Midlands and we are hoping to play other golf societies around the country also.
Wolves Golf Society
Shane Robinson and Adam Sedgwick both run the society and they are welcoming new members weekly.
We hope to build a foundation for like-minded golf lovers to also show that we as Wolverhampton wanderers supporters don’t just meet up for football matches, we also can meet up for other sports too.
We’re over the moon to run this society for wolves fans, we do welcome fans from other clubs as we already have WEST BROMWICH and ASTON VILLA supporters playing.
We’ve been invited to travel to Portugal on the 19th October 2018 to play against premier league teams SPORTING LISBON and SETBUL societies.
We hope to play more societies around the UK and Europe in the future.
To anyone wanting to join we want them to know that you will have total piece of mind when joining our society that you’ll ha e a relaxing and enjoyable day/weekend with great like-minded people.
For more info, our contact details are:
TWITTER: wolves_society
FACEBOOK: wolves supporters golf society
EMAIL: wolvesgolfsociety@gmail.com
PLASTICS INDUSTRY GOLF SOCIETY (PIGS)
As long ago as 1931 a group of businessmen working in the newly formed plastics industry met on regular occasions for a game of golf, friendly banter and a chance to catch up on common interests. So popular were these occasions that it was decided to form a golfing society which accommodated their love of the game and also provided the opportunity to network within the industry.
Little Aston, Record 1
Little Aston, Record
The P.I.G.S. was formed initially in 1933 by Cyril Last (Founder) and proved so popular it quickly went national with the Midlands section being set up in1934 by Sydney Goode (BIP), E.Wilding-Cole and Jim Butler all of whom presented competition trophies to the society. These same trophies are still competed for today and feature each season in our fixture programme.
Monsanto Team Winners
The P.I.G.S. are well known throughout the Midlands and have played courses such as Little Aston, Moseley, Blackwell, Moor Hall, Edgbaston, Beaudesert, Enville, South Staffs, Keddleston Park to name just a few. A major highlight of each season is our National Event which takes place in September, traditionally Woodhall Spa. On this occasion, all sections compete both individually and as a team for many original trophies.
Midlands Winner at Woodhall
Our season of events begins in April through to October featuring courses which vary each year and, with the exception of our Christmas Cracker in December are generally played in the afternoon followed by Dinner, awards and prizes. I extend a big thank you to the sponsors of each these events. We also encourage our members to bring along visitors and are actively seeking newcomers to join the society. These days we do not insist on potential members being associated with the plastics industry. Please do visit our website www.thepigs.co.uk and get a feel for what we are about.
President Captain
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Len Strong. Midlands & National Secretary PIGS
PIGS new president
Warwickshire Teachers’ GS
The Warwickshire Teachers’ Golf Society have 6 competitions per year, all played at various different courses around Warwickshire (and the surrounding counties occasionally!). We are always looking to recruit new members and guests – anyone that works or has worked in an educational establishment (not just teachers and not just Warwickshire!).
Our focus is on fun and friendly competitions – all abilities and ages are welcome. Anybody interested in coming along for a game or becoming a member should contact wtgsociety@gmail.com or visit twitter.com/wtgsociety Our next fixtures are at Oakridge on October 27th & Kilworth Springs on January 4th.
The Society was formed in 1974 by a group of teachers in North Warwickshire met to form a nomadic golfing society. Numbers were small and all members either belonged to Nuneaton GC or Atherstone GC.
As well as the 6 in-house competitions per year, since 1975 the society has played an annual match against Nuneaton GC. Records since 1989 show Nuneaton to be leading the way with 15 wins to WTGS’ 6. 6 matches have also been drawn.
In 1998 the North Warwickshire Teachers’ Golf Society changed it’s name to the current Warwickshire Teachers’ Golf Society as by this time a number of members had joined from the south of the county.
In 2005 the secretary of the society, Adrian Richards, died just prior to his retirement. He was also a member of Nuneaton GC. The annual match against Nuneaton is now played for the Adrian Richards Trophy
2017 society roles:
Captain – Callum Peake
Vice captain – Adam Newell
Treasurer – Dave Wilkins
Secretaries – Dave Wilkins & Keith Rawlins
2015 captain Wilf Feely provides plenty of entertainment. He has turned up at the wrong course, and on the wrong date, and his jokes during his speeches in his captaincy year were not for the faint-hearted! The most successful players over the past decade are Dennis James and Keith Rawlins, too many trophies to remember and constant calls for handicap cuts!
WAC Golf Society
WAC Golf Society (Worcester)
By Beefy and Lamby (co-organisers)
We just love playing golf and enjoy the laughter on the fairways. The WAC Golf Society play out of Bransford Golf Club based on the outskirts of Worcester, a great Par 72 lake jewelled course in superb condition. We were formed in 2013 by Dave Broad and Dave Lamb (aka Beefy and Lamby, below) with the intention to take fellow club golfers to play some of the best courses around the Midlands and beyond. We wanted to support charities and over the past few years we have raised £1000s for Cancer charities in the UK.
Our society members have grown from a handful to over 35 players currently, we have played some of the best courses around including The Belfry, The Forest of Arden, The Astbury, The Vale at Evesham and have enjoyed weekend away trips to St Pier Golf Club and the Vale of Glamorgan. We have also played at Celtic Manor, Gleneagles and St Andrews Old Course.
We run an annual trip to Okehampton, Devon where we play 90 holes of Golf over four very competitive and fun days, plenty of prizes on offer including an Order of Merit and numbers grow each year for this event.
Our main aim is for club golfers to experience other courses, as well as having like-minded and friendly banter that group golf can achieve. We aim to keep costs down to around £20-30 for our local Midlands rounds and enjoy playing local courses every year such as Cleobury Mortimer and Burghill Valley who treat us very well and provide some superb deals.
We have a Twitter (@WACgolfsociety) and a Facebook page and have recently started our very own YouTube channel.
2018 is shaping up to be a great season for WAC events, please visit our web site at www.wacgolfsociety.com to find out how you can join us on some great days out.
Contact Details:
Dave Broad – Email: d-broad@sky.com Tel: 07846 233190
Dave Lamb – Email: davelamb@mail.com Tel: 07429 192646
If you are a local Midlands golf society and would like to make your own contribution to On the Tee, both in the magazine and online, please contact us by e-mailing Phil at editor@midlandsgolfer.co.uk or registering your details via our Society Registration Form
David Fulcher
David previously worked with the PGA as the Executive for Golf Coaching and has presented in Italy, China and throughout the UK on many golf coaching and sports related topics.
He is also the lead coach for the Warwickshire county academy programme which seeks to develop golfers from an early age to 18 years old.
David has coached on Ladies European Tour, worked with players on the mens challenge tour, but his real coaching passion is working with and improving club golfers scores and handicaps.
Set up for your Best Scores this Season – Hit the greens like the Pros…
Do you have a score in mind to achieve this season, break 100, 90, 80 or even 70? Whatever the target you need to decide how you are going to achieve that score.
We are going to focus on hitting more greens in regulation. This means if the hole is a Par 4, taking a regulation two shots to get onto the green. (A Key stat to be aware of!)
What greens should YOU hit in regulation?
We all have different handicaps and expectations, but you should be aware of which holes you can hit the green in regulation and which holes you can’t. If you cannot reach certain holes in regulatio due to the distance or other factors, then your strategy of how to play the hole needs to change.
If you can’t reach a Par 4 in 2 shots onto the green, play the hole as a Par 5. (3 shots to get onto the green and 2 putts)
Often we attempt to reach greens we cannot, which brings more trouble into play and we can quickly find ourselves having a higher score on particular holes than we expect to have.
What to do?
1. Choose the holes you can reach in regulation
Mark on your scorecard with a tick (Hit Green in Regulation) and a Cross (If missed).
2. The holes you cannot reach, rethink your strategy and how you play them
PLAY and SCORE better!
After a few rounds collecting how many greens you have hit or missed, will give you an idea of where you are in relation to your handicap:
0 Handicap – You should hit approx. 12-14 greens in regulation
9 Handicap – 8-10 greens in regulation
18 Handicap – 4-6 greens in regulation
If you are above your average for your handicap, this may suggest your short hame is letting you down. Or if you aren’t hitting enough greens, this may suggest your driving is not allowing you to hit the greens. The key is not guessing which part of your game needs attention, but having the facts.
Create a Plan, Set your Targets and your game will improve in 2016!
Golfers that have lessons with our team at Edgbaston Golf Club undertook a programme last year and on average have reduced their handicaps this season by 1.2 shots and 9 out of the 10 most improved golfers in the club have also taken lessons and had a Winter Plan.
If you want help on your golf game, on course lessons or help on a particular type of shot, please contact David and the team at Edgbaston.
Anders Mankert
Anders is an award winning Pro and owner of the new 100% Toptracer facility Leicester Golf Centre which was recently named by BBC Radio 5 Live as the 3rd best Driving Range in the UK. He is an Advanced Fellow of the PGA, 3 times Coach of the Year runner up, voted the UK’s #1 Instructor in the Best of UK Awards and in 2018 became the first Professional ever to be named in The England Golf Awards Lifetime Achievement Winner. He can be contacted on 0116 2750549 or andersmankert@yahoo.co.uk
“As we come out of winter and having played winter rules for several months I see many of you who have got used to scooping the ball off the turf, which cleaning and placing the ball can create. This leads to a huge increase in the club’s loft, so in effect your 6 iron performs like a 9 iron as in the picture below. It also leads to the low point of the swing being moved to before the impact causing fat and thin shots.
Here is a fantastic way to learn the correct hand position: Place an old shaft of an alignment stick under the grip of a short iron and do a few half swings. If you can successfully swing through without the extension hitting your side then you’ve achieved a correct and very powerful impact. However, if it hits you in the side then you’re still scooping and need to keep working on the feeling until the shaft is leaning more towards the target, and boom your distance will rocket!”
THE LEICESTER GOLF CENTRE
In a familiar location to many, the old Oadby Golf Club, situated next door to Leicester Racecourse. The nine hole venue closed its doors back in 2011 and has been lying idle ever since, until Anders purchased the centre from the racecourse back in the spring, and has been busy ever since, bringing the club back to life and adding a few extra things too.
A huge undertaking though which hasn’t been without some hurdles to climb, but Anders and his team of helpers who include family members have been working day and night to ensure that Leicester Golf Centre will be ready to welcome golfers this autumn.
The centre is now open, complete with a 16 bay floodlit range and adjoining teaching bay, a large short game practice area and a new reception area. The range is the first one in The Midlands with 100% Toptracer bays.
The golf course will have a couple of newly designed holes, but will remain as a full length 9 hole course with tee lengths to suit all golfers.
Anders – “We’re building a pay and play facility here for all golfers in the city to enjoy. Everybody is welcome to come and play the course, and hit balls on the range too, and there will be no dress code either.”
“It’s taken a lot of grass cutting to bring the course back, but everything here is pretty much back to how it was before 2011. The tree growth over the years though will surprise a lot of golfers; it looks like a completely different course now.”
Anders mentioned how indebted he is to a number of local people and organisations who have pitched in to help out.
“We’ve had an amazing reaction, several local greenkeepers came over to help, and gave us their free time. The racecourse have been fantastic too, donating us some greens equipment, we’ve been so humbled by the help we’ve received.”
The driving range is now fully open with the course to follow this spring and a new large sized short game area under construction too. This is just the beginning; much more will be coming to Leicester Golf Centre.