WE WILL ROCK YOU - FREE AT GOLF CLUBS IN THE NORTH EAST AND YORKSHIRE - ISSUE 75 - Northern Golfer
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FREE AT GOLF CLUBS IN THE NORTH EAST AND YORKSHIRE - ISSUE 75
JULY 2019
northerngolfer.co.uk
WE WILL
ROCK YOU
Girl power hits the region’s fairways with Girls Golf Rocks
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N OR TH ER N
WELCOME&CONTENTS
The height of summer has brought us (intermittent)
good weather along with a busy magazine filled with
great performances by our region’s golfers.
EDITOR
The success of our region’s girls is this season’s good news story which just
Dean Bailey 01661 844 115
dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk keeps on giving.
This month’s pages are filled with regional prizes, national success and
CONTRIBUTORS international caps for girls based at clubs all across the region - from 10-year-
Alan Hedley 07570 797 566 old Amy Burton to international debuts for 14-year-olds Libby Bell and Rachel
ahedley@northerngolfer.co.uk Gourley. Rosie Belsham and Jess Baker hit the headlines again this month, 04-08 TEEING OFF
John Harrison while we have results from Yorkshire’s win at County Match Week at Seaton Champions book tickets
Matfen Hall 01661 886 146 Carew Golf Club. to Ramside, Amy wins
While the game looks in great shape at the top level, the development of the Storm Series and girls’
EVENTS next generation of female golfers also looks to be in very good hands thanks success continues
Dean Bailey 01661 844 115 to Girls Golf Rocks. I’ve spent this month learning about the programme and
dean@offstonepublishing.co.uk have found it inspiring to speak to some of the people involved as coaches
ADVERTISING MANAGER and ambassadors. To have a national programme on this scale is fantastic
Doug Brolls 07721 031 482 and I have no doubt many of the next crop of England internationals and
doug@offstonepublishing.co.uk national success stories will be getting their first taste of the game thanks to
the programme.
PHOTOGRAPHY The boys have also been on top form this month - starting with Matty
Kevin Gibson & Nicky Rogerson
info@kgphotography.co.uk
Lamb. Matty has put together a tremendous run of form so far this season, 09-17 TEEING OFF
highlighted by his close call at the St Andrews Links Trophy. It’s great to see Skipp retains Durham Boys
Matty back at the top of the national stage, and back in England colours for title, pros celebrate career
ADVERTISING the upcoming European teams championships. milestones and Lamb goes
01661 844 115 Elsewhere, our region’s professionals have been in fine form with a number close at St Andrews
of winners around the region, including a superb win for David Clark in the
Follow us
recent Northumberland & Durham Open. 18 MATCH PLAY PAIRS
@negolfer As you read this, our region’s best players will have completed their rounds Round one results and round
in Final Qualifying for the Open Championship - good luck to all those two draw
Like us competing for a place at Portrush.
/northerngolferuk
I was lucky enough to enjoy A Round With... Douglas Montgomerie this 21 DEAN BAILEY
Follow us month too, while Alan has paid a visit to Beamish Park. Proper preparation
@northerngolferuk There’s so much more to look forward to this summer - including the North
of England Youths Championship and Champion of Champions events, both
Published by: of which we build up to this month -
let’s hope the sunshine hangs around a
lot longer...
Publishers: Dean Bailey, editor 23 TOUR LIFE
Jane Pikett & Gary Ramsay editor@northerngolfer.co.uk With Chris Paisley
Address: Offstone Publishing
Unit 1, Bearl Farm, Stocksfield 28 A ROUND WITH...
Northumberland, NE43 7AL Douglas Montgomerie
FRONT COVER
Tel: 01661 844 115 The inspiring success
E: enquiries@offstonepublishing.co.uk 32 SPECIAL FOCUS
of the Girls Golf Links golf
Twitter: @offstonepublish
Facebook: /offstonepublishing Rocks programme
42 TIPS
Pages 24-26
Perfect pitching with
John Harrison
When you have finished with
this magazine please recycle it
30 BEAMISH PARK 36 THE NORTH OF
©Offstone Publishing 2019. All rights reserved.
No part of this magazine may be reproduced COURSE PROFILE ENGLAND YOUTHS
without the written permission of the publisher. All
information contained in this magazine is as far as
we are aware, correct at the time of going to press.
Offstone Publishing cannot accept responsibility for
errors of inaccuracies in such information. If you
submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically
grant Offstone Publishing a licence to publish
44 PROMOTIONS
your submission in whole or in part in all editions Win rounds for four at City of
of the magazine. All material is sent at your own
risk and although every care is taken, neither
Newcastle, Matfen Hall and
Offstone Publishing nor it’s employees, agents or Brancepeth Castle
subcontractors shall be held liable resulting for loss
or damage. Offstone Publishing endeavors to respect
the intellectual property of owners of copyrighted
material reproduced herein. If you identify yourself
46 BUNKER
as the copyright holder of material we have wrongly Golfing tales from our readers
attributed, please contact the office. Offstone
Publishing do not guarantee the insertion of any
particular advertisement on a specified date or at all. NORTHERN GOLFER 03
TEEINGOFF
Cameron Wallace
Ben Squire
Host venue Ramside Hall
We are the
champions James Wilson (left)
T
he Northern Golfer The men’s event will take Champion of Champions
Champion of place on Saturday September events welcome an elite
Champions events 28 with another strong field of amateur golfers
will return this field expected to compete from across the North
September in partnership with for the trophy over the of England each year.
Brewin Dolphin and hosted by Cathedral Course. The events – for men,
Ramside Hall. A number of club women and juniors – are
The race to this year’s championships have already open to reigning club
events is already underway taken place around the region – champions from clubs
and a number of players with players securing invites to in Northumberland, Co
have captured their club the events. They include Castle Durham and Teesside, Paul Caldicott (right)
titles and an invite to this Eden Golf Club’s Cameron and selected clubs in LADIES AND JUNIOR
year’s tournaments. Wallace – who led the field at the Scottish Borders, CHAMPION OF CHAMPIONS
The events – for men, ladies his home club with two rounds Cumbria and Yorkshire Saturday September 21
and juniors – will be played at of 68. within Northern Golfer’s Ramside Hall
Ramside for a third consecutive Meanwhile, the first Junior circulation area.
Cathedral Course
year while this year’s events Champion of Champions, Invites will be emailed
Red and yellow tees
will be staged in partnership James Wilson, captured to clubs in the coming
from 11.30am
with Brewin Dolphin, one of Tyneside Golf Club’s men’s weeks with champions
the largest British investment title with two rounds of 67. At asked to register for their
management and financial Northumberland Golf Club, tee times online at www. MEN’S CHAMPION OF
planning firms, for the Paul Caldicott beat Seton northerngolfer.co.uk. CHAMPIONS
first time. Wakenshaw to book his place Thanks to the support Saturday September 28
The 2019 ladies and junior at Ramside in September, of Brewin Dolphin and Ramside Hall
events will take place on while Ben Squire captured the Ramside Hall, there is no Cathedral Course
Saturday September 21 over the Stocksfield Golf Club title. charge for competitors at Blue tees
Cathedral Course. The Northern Golfer the events. from 8.40am
04 NORTHERN GOLFER
TEEINGOFF
Amy storms to series title
A
my Burton made home
advantage count as she
captured the inaugural James Wilson (right) with
Mini-Storm Trophy Series Ravensworth’s Craig Walker
Double
title at Wynyard Golf Club.
Amy won the opening event of
the series at Rudding Park to take an
early lead in the series. However, she dream
went into the third and final event
in a tie for top spot with Wearside James Wilson can’t wait to
Golf Club’s Millie Hixon after Millie have a crack at a Champion of
won the second event at Consett Champions double.
Golf Club. The 19-year-old has been in
Amy returned to the top of the Amy Burton with Graeme Storm sparkling form, picking up the
leaderboard at Wynyard with a score finished in third place. Alexander Trophy Series has proved incredibly Ravensworth Bowl and winning
of 42, two ahead of Millie as Caylin secured 550 points over the three popular in its first year. The the Tyneside club championship
Million finished third on 57. events to top the order of merit as European Tour player, who handed title. The first winner of the
The win gave Amy 200 points and Sam finished in second place with over a substantial cheque to the junior title four years ago, there’s
took her order of merit total to 575 500 points and Roan finished third. Percy Hedley Foundation following nothing James would like more
points, just 25 points clear of Millie Tournament host Graeme the series, is more than happy with than to become the first player to
with Caylin in third place on 450. Storm is now considering further the way things are developing. win two champion of champions
In the boys’ event at Wynyard, improvements and possible “Watch this space!” he said. “We’re titles. “That’s something I’d like
Eaglescliffe Golf Club’s Alexander expansion for the tournaments. pleased with the series and we’re very much,” said James, who
Boyes came through to win the title. More than 100 youngsters took always looking at ways to improve shot two 67s to win at Tyneside
Sam McIntyre, who won at Consett, part in the Storm Junior Open at and expand the opportunities for and posted a 140 total to win
finished second as Roan Smith Hartlepool and the new Mini Storm juniors to play competitive golf ”. at Ravensworth.
GEORGE WASHINGTON
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NORTHERN GOLFER 05
TEEINGOFF
Making his Mark
M
ark Wharton returned
to his finest form to
capture his second
Northumberland
County Championship at
Westerhope Golf Club.
Having come through a
week of tough matches to reach
Will Marshall receives Saturday’s final, Mark produced
the Keith Shivers Bowl from some of the best golf of the week
Heworth captain Peter Cherry as he completed a 9&7 victory over
Will to win
Westerhope’s Brad Robinson in the
36-hole final.
Mark, from Newcastle United Golf
Will Marshall came through a Club, chipped in for eagle at the 18th
tense playoff to win the 10th hole of the match before lunch and
Keith Shivers Bowl at Heworth continued to extend his advantage
Golf Club. in the afternoon round, reaching 12
Will overcame clubmate under-par by the time he returned to
Jason McGuire in a five-hole the 11th hole.
Mark Wharton
playoff to claim the title, having He said: “It’s a great feeling to
posted a five under-par 66 in have my hands on the County to be a two-time champion, there “The supporters have been great
the second round to finish in a Championship trophy again, I didn’t are a lot of great names on this all week and I have to say a big thank
tie with Jason through 36 holes know whether I’d ever be able to trophy twice. To match one of the you to my caddy John Simmons and
- Jason posting a round of 68 in reach the same level as I did when I achievements of a player like Chris all the people that have come out to
the second round. won back in 2016. It’s a great honour Paisley is tremendous. watch us.”
CELEBRATING
10 YEARS
OF CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF AT ROCKLIFFE HALL
TWILIGHT GOLF
IS AVAILABLE FROM 3PM DAILY, £35 PER PERSON
To book a tee time visit www.rockliffehall.com or call 01325 729980
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06 NORTHERN GOLFER
TEEINGOFF
Tarren’s American dream
C
allum Tarren had a play my first major. I got off to Callum
week to remember a really good start on day one, Tarren
at Pebble Beach as birdieing the ninth to turn
he competed in his in level par before holing out
first major championship. from a fairway bunker at the
Having secured his Korn 10th for eagle, which was a
Ferry Tour ( formerly Web. great moment. I’d hit it in that
com Tour) card for this season bunker in both my practice William Guthrie
after topping the PGA Tour
Series China order of merit
rounds so I knew the shot!
“I felt confident with eight Silver lining
last term, Callum qualified holes to play, but you can’t
for this year’s US Open by miss fairways at the US Open, Long-term Seaton Carew
winning sectional qualifying and that cost me. I had a slow member William Guthrie has
at Streamsong Black, opening start on day two and just left lifted the Senior Salver for the
with a course-record 64 to too much ground to make up. first at his home club.
take the early lead and then As a whole, I really enjoyed The 63-year-old delivered
backing it up with a 68 to top the experience. There were a a near flawless round of 70 to
the field at 14 under-par lot of positives to take from lead a field of more than 100
He went on to post rounds it and I can’t wait to be back golfers from across the country.
of 73 and 75 at Pebble Beach, competing in another major.” He said: “The day went
missing the cut by four shots Callum was in 83rd place well of course, I played solidly
but taking a lot of positives on the KFT order of merit – and the conditions were kind.
from the week. just outside the top 75 that The highlight was making
He said: “Playing at Pebble secure their cards for next a two at the 15th with an
Beach was a great experience. season and make it to the outrageous chip in. It’s nice to
It is the iconic US Open venue Tour Finals - as we went win the Senior Salver at the
and a very special place to to print. eighth attempt.”
INVESTING IN ITS FUTURE
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NORTHERN GOLFER 07
TEEINGOFF
International honours
Jess Baker
Girls’
success
continues
Jess Baker produced a superb
week of golf at the English Rosie Belsham (right) with the winning England team Rachel Gourley (left) and Libby Bell
Women’s Amateur at Saunton
N
Golf Club, reaching the semi- orthumberland’s Libby Rachel, 14, added: “I’m really to represent England again in
final stage. Bell and Rachel Gourley proud to have played my first match the future.”
Jess (Gosforth Park Ladies) represented England for my country. The Spanish players Meanwhile, Rosie was part of the
reached the final four with wins for the first time as a were team of three which won the girls’
over Isabelle Simpson (23rd mixed U16 squad took on Spain at Nations Cup at the German Boys
hole), Caley McGinty (2up) and Woodhall Spa, while Rosie Belsham & Girls Open. Rosie shot rounds
Billie-Jo Smith (2&1) having picked up another international of 73 and 68 alongside Lily May
qualified for the matchplay cap as England took on teams Humphreys and Charlotte Heath as
stages in a tie for 12th place. from across Europe as part of England beat Germany by one shot.
She said: “Getting to the German Boys & Girls Open. In the individual event, played
the semi-finals was a huge Gosforth Park Ladies-based over three days, Rosie finished in
achievement and I’m really Liiby and Arcot Hall-based a tie for 12th place after posting
proud to have gotten to the last Rachel collected their first a closing round of 72 to finish on
four in such a big event. It was caps as England were beaten seven under-par.
great to get the result having 15-9 – though both took a lot of Following the series of matches,
focussed on playing my own positives from the experience. England Golf announced the
game and just letting the results Libby, 14, said: “Playing for teams that will represent England
come, which seems to be England was a really good in the upcoming European teams
working well this season. experience and I’ve taken a lot from championships. Rosie and Jess Baker
“To compete in a women’s it. I felt comfortable while I was phenomenal and I learned a lot from will team up with Cumbria’s Caitlin
event is a really good feeling there and all the coaches were really them about where I need to improve Whitehead in the girls’ team for the
and I’ve got a lot of confidence supportive throughout the event. to get to the next level. event at Parador de El Saler in Spain.
to carry forward into the rest “I’ve made a lot of new friends “There’s a lot to take from the Meanwhile, Northumberland’s Matty
of the season. It’s a big step and I’m really looking forward match and put into how I prepare in Lamb has been named in the men’s
up from the girls’ events but I to having the chance to play for the future too. team for the event at Ljunghusen
feel like I can really compete at England in the future. “I’d love to have the chance in Sweden.
this level.”
Following her record-
breaking win at the Fairhaven
Trophy, Rosie Belsham qualified Northumberland overcame Durham in a close contest at
in tie for fourth place for the Longhirst Hall in the second round of Northern Counties
matchplay stages, reaching the
quarter-final stage. League matches - winning the matches 10-8 to get their
Durham’s Jessica Hall and first points of the season. Elsewhere, Yorkshire and Cumbria
Briony Bayles also reached the
last 32 of the event, which was
top the table - both teams undefeated after Yorkshire beat
won by Ellen Hume. Lancashire at Fairhaven and Cumbria beat Cheshire at Carlisle.
08 NORTHERN GOLFER
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TEEINGOFF
Will holds on to boys title
W
ill Skipp’s
domination of the
Durham County
Boys Championship
continued when he retained his title
Angus wins at Boldon Golf Club.
Will, from Eaglescliffe Golf Club,
Northumberland won the full boys title for a second
year in a row with rounds of 76 and Ben Willis
boys title 70 at Boldon. The win follows his
first full boys title in 2018. He also
Matfen Hall’s Angus won the U16 title in 2017 and lifted
Buchanan has been crowned the U14 trophy in 2016.
Northumberland County Boys The current Durham boys
Strokeplay Champion. captain, Will led the elite field
Angus (pictured) posted of boys by five shots as Rockliffe
a one over-par 74 in tough Hall’s Harrison Hodgson posted
conditions at Longhirst Hall to rounds of 75 and 76. Eaglescliffe’s
win the county title and book Will Alexander finished in third
his place in the England Golf place with rounds of 77 and 75. Will Skipp Duran Gun
Champion of Champions event Meanwhile, Houghton-le-Spring’s le-Spring’s Jack Laidler. Jack won the Following the event, Will,
at Woodhall Spa later this year. Daniel Ellison won the nett prize best nett in the U16 category with Duran and Ben were named in the
Westerhope Golf Club’s with rounds of 74 and 71. his score of 68. Durham team for the Northern
Jack McCall finished in second In the U16 event, George The U14 title went to South Counties Boys’ County Qualifying
place, one shot behind Angus Washington Golf Club’s Duran Gun Shields Golf Club’s Ben Willis as Championship (AKA The Little Six),
as Jamie Bone of Hexham Golf took home the trophy with a round Darlington Golf Club’s Toby Mitford which will take place at Rockliffe
Club won the U14 title. of 70, five shots clear of Houghton- won the nett title. Hall on July 3.
READ THE LATEST GOLF NEWS FROM
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NORTHERN
10 NORTHERN GOLFERTEEINGOFF
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ara Naughton, Rachel A total of eight golfers from GUEST IN THE
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Zara (Ponteland Middle School) Hexham) and Alex Heppell (Haydon
tel 01661 85 22 55, or email alexbrown1@closehouse.co.uk
led the field at Denton Golf Club, Bridge High School). Alex produced
Manchester with rounds of 73 and the best golf among the boys,
77 as Rachel (Cramlington Learning finishing in seventh place and being
Village) finished third overall. selected to represent The North at
In the team event, Zara, Rachel the national finals as Yorkshire’s
and Lois (Queen Elizabeth High Oliver Caton lifted the boys trophy.
School, Hexham) topped the Zara, Rachel and Alex now
leaderboard – finishing 12 shots advance to the National Schools
ahead of the Durham team. Final, which will be held at
The win was Northumberland’s Sherwood Forest Golf Club,
first in the event since 1986 and Nottingham. Durham’s Alexandra
saw them finish ahead of teams Stevenson, Will Skipp and Duran
from Durham, Cumbria, Yorkshire, Gun will also compete in the
Lancashire and Cheshire. national finals.
Academy success at Arcot
PGA professional Kris Bengtsson
and Margaret Spence have
embarked on the fourth year of
the successful Ladies Academy
programme at Arcot Hall.
Kris (pictured) and Margaret have
supported the arrival of new female
members of the club since 2016, group class before golfers progress
doubling the female membership into a three month Academy
from 50 to 100 in four years. Scheme, which allows them to play CLOSE HOUSE, HEDDON ON THE WALL
The programme, which has 27 nine-hole rounds and take part in NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, NE15 0HT
women involved this year, starts weekly lessons with Kris. TEL 01661 85 22 55
with a five week group class, For more information on joining WWW.CLOSEHOUSE.COM
delivered free of charge. This is the programme, contact Kris at *Only available on booking made after 01/07/19. Only available for bookings
followed by a further five week the club. arriving before 31/10/19. Subject to availability
NORTHERN GOLFER 11TEEINGOFF
The
Scoring
Club’s
Milestone moments
P
annual charity golf rofessionals Darren Pearce
and Marcus Webb have
day helped raise reached career milestones
more than £4,000 at their home clubs.
Darren, 54, has been Barnard
at Tyneside Golf Castle’s professional for 25 years while
Club. The event, Marcus, also 54, has been in charge at
now in its 10th Bedlingtonshire for 30 years.
Darren said: “I think there were
year, supported some newer members who were
Oliver’s Journey quite surprised to find out I’d been
here that long.” An England Boys Darren Pearce with his anniversary cake and Marcus Webb (inset)
and Eliza’s Chair international in his youth, Darren
this year with has captained the NENW PGA and
has been a serial winner on the
“I have to say a big thank you to
everyone that supported the day
competitive tournament was a
Barnard Castle pro-am.
teams taking circuit with wins in the assistants, and also my club for letting me host “I was 29 and won £17,” he
part from across matchplay and strokeplay events it,” he said. “A special thank you to added. “I decided I was going to
as well as a Northumberland and Ken Ferrie, Ronnie Foreman, Steve concentrate on coaching! I’d moved
the region. In 10 Durham Open title. Holmes and Brian Mabon as well to Bedlingtonshire thinking I would
years, the event Meanwhile, Marcus celebrated the clubs that supplied fourball be in the North East for a few years
his 30 years at Bedlingtonshire with vouchers.” before returning south.” Since then,
has raised more a special golf day, raising £1,000 While Darren has competed Marcus has become a PGA tutor
than £39,000 for for The Children Heart Unit Fund throughout his career, including in and educational coach, as well as
charities across (CHUF), PGA Benevolent Fund,
TGI Golf Foundation and Prostate
three Senior Open Championships,
Marcus has chosen to focus on
a Fellow of the PGA. He has also
received the Golf Foundation’s
the region. Cancer UK. teaching. He reckons his last Critchley Award.
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First 20 members pay only £250 BIG PLANS
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All enquiries contact the secretary on 01207561309 or email garesfieldgc@btconnect.comGolf in the Scottish Borders TEEINGOFF
Traditional Country Inn ideally situated
for playing MINTO, HAWICK, THE HIRSEL
AND ROXBURGH plus many more. 12
en-suite bedrooms with tv, wi-fi, tea/coffee
making facililties, Sky tv. Restaurant and bar
serving cask ales (good pub guide)
STAY & PLAY - £85 pppn
(based on two people sharing) or single
occupancy £95.00 per night. This will include
Auld Cross Bed and Breakfast two course evening meal
and a round of golf
Keys Inn Tel: 01450 870305
Restaurant • Public bar • Lounge • Patio bookings@crosskeysdenholm.co.uk
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence www.crosskeysenholm.co.uk
The Green, Denholm, Scottish Borders, TD9 8NU Matty Lamb (© St Andrews Links)
FOR THE LATEST GOLF NEWS AND
VIEWS FROM THE NORTH EAST St Andrews
AND YORKSHIRE VISIT
puts a spring in
Lamb’s step
NORTHERN
M
atty Lamb came happy with the result, one of my best
within a single shot to date, and my confidence is high
of winning one going into the rest of the summer.”
WWW.NORTHERNGOLFER.COUK of amateur golf ’s
top prizes at the St Andrews
Matty went on to compete in
The Amateur Championship at
Links Trophy. Portmarnock – reaching the last
Matty, from Hexham Golf Club, 16. He came through a number of
Major Players
opened his week in sensational form, close matches to reach round four,
shooting rounds of 64 on the Jubilee beating Norway’s Jarle Volden 3&2 in
Course and 63 on the Old Course to round one before overcoming South
reach 17 under-par and take a six Africa’s Yurav Premlall 3&1 and
shot lead into the final 36 holes. Japan’s Kengo Aoshima 1up. He was
HT He followed up those scores beaten 1dn in the last 16 by Ireland’s
RN
NORTHE
INSIG INSIG
NORTHE
RN
HT with rounds of 69 and 73 on the Old Ronan Mullarney.
ISSU E
43
Y 2019
FEBR UAR
JANU ARY
Course on the final day, and was just Following those events, Matty
2019
ISSU E
44
pipped to the trophy by Saunton’s was selected as part for the
NORTHER
N INSIG
Jake Burnage – who posted rounds England team for the European
HT
NORTHER
- YOU
N INSIG
EYE ON R
of 66 and 69 for a 20 under-par total teams championships.
HT
THE
- YOU
REGI ON
R
INSIGHT
ISSUE 45
INSIGHT
NORTHERN
EYE ON
NORTHERN
for four rounds. He added: “Getting back into
THE
REGI ON
ISSUE 46
Matty said: “The week at St the England fold is a great feeling
JANUARY
NORTH ERN
MARCH 2019
APRIL 2019
2019
INSIGH T -
NORTH ERN
GROUP
Andrews was a great experience. I as it’s taken a lot of really good golf
FEBR UARY
RUITMENT RUIT
URBAN BAS BMC REC
WAY TO REC
YOUR EYE
2019 - THE E – A NEW
INSIGH T -
2019
re
FUTURE’S arts leisu
business BRIGHT! n motors
was in really good form and played to get there. I’m currently top of
catio
gy edu
ON THE REGION
property
media technolo
media
YOUR EYE
technolo
gy edu property
catio n motors business issue 44
arts leisu
issue 43 re
ON THE REGION
some nice golf over the first two the England Order of Merit and the
www.northern-i
rounds. While things didn’t go to Walker Cup is in my sights. I need
www.northern-in
nsight.co.uk
plan in the final 36 holes, it just to keep playing well and performing
sight.co.uk
THE COSMETIC
came down to a couple of bad breaks every week, but if I can do that,
DENTAL CLINI ERTY
FUTURE OF PROP
SOMETHING TO C LOOKING TO THE
and failing to hole the putts like I I’ve got a good chance of making
MARCH 2019
SMILE ABOUT AND MORTAR
WITH BRICKS
business proper arts leisure
ty media techno
education motors
had in rounds one and two. I’m really the team.”
logy logy
APRIL 2019
education motors
ty media techno
arts leisure business proper
issue 45 issue 46
NORTHERN
Middlesbrough Golf Club eased to a
INSIGHT nine shot win in the Teesside Union
Team Championship at Saltburn.
The team of James Swash, Michael Hay and
The Business and Leisure Magazine for the North East Region
For advertising and editorial enquiries contact
Michael Grahamslaw on mjgrahamslaw@outlook.com Phil Collins finished well ahead of second
or visit the website www.northern-insight.co.uk
placed Wynyard and Cleveland.
14 NORTHERN GOLFERTEEINGOFF
Road to Portrush
O
ur region’s best
professionals and
amateurs started their David Brunton (left) and
journeys to the Open Nigel Sweet, Leeds Golf
Championship at Royal Portrush Centre manager
with Regional Qualifying.
The first stage of qualifying Brunton
took place at 13 venues, including
Berwick-upon-Tweed (Goswick) in wins Senior
Northumberland and Alwoodley
in Yorkshire. Masters
At Goswick, Close House’s
Andrew Scrimshaw made it through David Brunton captured The
alongside Hexham Golf Club-based Senior Masters title at Leeds
Jonathan Richardson and Thomas Andrew Scrimshaw Golf Centre with a superb nine
Rowland – all three players posting named as a reserve. Liberton-based Meanwhile, Leeds Golf Centre- under-par total.
rounds of four under-par. amateur Kieran Cantley topped the based amateur Ben Firth topped the Brunton shot rounds of 67
They’ll be joined in Final leaderboard at Goswick with a seven leaderboard alongside Nick Marsh and 68 to win the tournament,
Qualifying by Wynyard-based under-par 65. at Fairhaven. now in its third year.
amateur Ben Bailey and Wynyard At Alwoodley, Rotherham-based The qualifiers will now move Mark Ashworth shot a course
professional James Harper – who amateur Ben Schmidt led the field on to Final Qualifying, which record-equalling second round of
came through a playoff with Ken with a three under-par round of 68. takes place at four venues – Notts 64 en-route to second place as
Ferrie and Durham City-based Jack Rockliffe Hall-based Andrew Wilson Hollinwell, Prince’s, St Annes Old Craig Ronald, Michael Watson
Trewhitt to claim the final ticket to made it through following a seven- Links and Fairmont St Andrews – on and European Senior Tour player
the next stage. Jack later gained a man playoff for five spots after his July 2 with 12 places available at The David Shacklady – last year’s
spot in Final Qualifying having been round of 71. 148th Open at Royal Portrush. champion - finished third.
Castle Eden Golf Club
18 Hole picturesque parkland course
OPEN COMPETITIONS 2019
Seniors Open 2 - 4BBB over 55s – Thursday 18th July - £24 per pair
Ladies Team of 4 Stableford – Tuesday 3rd September - £40 per team
Senior Open 4 man team over 55s – Thursday 12th September £48
Entry forms available on www.castleedengolfclub.co.uk
Now taking bookings for visiting parties and societies for 2019
Castle Eden Golf Club, Castle Eden, TS27 4SS
www.castleedengolfclub.co.uk
NORTHERN GOLFER 15TEEINGOFF
Pros share titles across the region
P
rofessionals from clubs
across our region have
taken home pro am
titles following events in
Cumbria, Durham and Teesside.
Five different winners took home
the winners’ cheques across five
events as Mark Ridley, Michael
Pilgrim, Craig Goodfellow, John Craig Goodfellow
Harrison and Andrew Wilson all
topped the leaderboards.
Mark finished in top spot at the
Penrith Pro Am with a three under-
par round of 66 – one shot clear of
nearest rival Jordan Woods.
In the Maryport GC Pro Am,
Bishop Auckland’s Michael Pilgrim Mark Ridley John Harrison Andrew Wilson
took home the top prize with a
superb four under-par 66. Teesside’s Craig Goodfellow returned to the round of 67 – two shots clear of The packed schedule continues
Vince Guest was second while top spot with a five under-par George Cowan. with pro ams at Alnmouth as part
James Wilkinson (Penrith Golf and score of 67 as Tynedale’s Martin At Teesside, guest professional of the club’s 150th anniversary
Footgolf) finished in third place. Forster finished alone in second Andrew Wilson (Rockliffe Hall) celebrations as well as trips to
The players returned to the place. Wynyard’s James Harper and posted a seven under-par 65 to beat Cockermouth, Houghton-le-
eastern half of the region for the Westerhope’s George Cowan shared the field by two shots and take home Spring, Tyneside and Matfen
Ramside Hall Pro Am and the third place with their rounds of 69. the winner’s cheque. Henry Taylor Hall. Meanwhile, the NENW PGA
Hadrian Healthcare Pro Am at Meanwhile, at Whickham, John (Scarcroft) shot a five under-par 67 Championship will take place at
Whickham Golf Club. At Ramside, Harrison (Matfen Hall) posted a to finish alone in second place. Morpeth Golf Club on July 29.
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16 NORTHERN GOLFERTEEINGOFF
Andy Minnikin, David Clark, NENW PGA president
Ray Sentance and Brancepeth captain Peter Burdess
Clark wins
N&D title
D
avid Clark hit top form Golf Club, posted an opening round
to win the region’s of 63 – including 10 threes - to tie
oldest professional the course record at Brancepeth
tournament. before a second round 73 saw him
David, head professional finish one shot behind David.
at Morpeth Golf Club, posted Meanwhile, Matfen Hall’s John
rounds of 67 and 68 at Brancepeth Harrison finished in fourth place
Castle Golf Club to lift the with a two round total of 137 as
Northumberland & Durham Penrith’s Tim Dykes and City of
Open title, leading an elite field of Newcastle amateur Phil Ridden
professionals and amateurs from finished a shot further back.
around the region. The tournament, which dates
He was pushed all the way in the back to 1950 and was first won by
36-hole tournament by Wynyard’s Bert Gadd, has regained much of
James Harper – who posted rounds its former glory with top amateurs
JULY TO SEPTEMBER
of 65 and 71 to finish alongside
amateur Andy Minnikin in second
invited to compete alongside the
professionals after the NENW PGA FROM £23 MIDWEEK £30 WEEKENDS
place. Andy, from City of Newcastle revived the event. INC COFFEE & BACON ROLL
JULY TO AUGUST 2019 OPENS
ONLINE SPECIAL GREEN FEES 18.7.2019 MEN’S OPEN TEXAS SCRAMBLE
Stars come out for COCO MON - FRI
£20 ROUND PER PLAYER
2.8.2019 LADIES OPEN
4.8.2019 MEN’S 4BBB
SAT & SUN 28.8.2019 SENIOR MENS 4BBB
Golfers from the North East £22.50 PER ROUND PER PLAYER 8.9.19 MIXED OPEN 4BBB
business community teamed up
with sports stars to raise money ENTER NOW VIA OUR WEBSITE
Bellingham Golf Club
for children’s charity COCO at
Slaley Hall.
The 16th annual Steve Cram
Celebrity Golf Day raised around Boggle Hole Bellingham NE48 2DT
£15,000 for the charity - which Celebrities at this year’s event CLAIM YOUR admin@bellinghamgolfclub.com
was founded by Steve and army included Steve Harmison, Phil FREE 4 BALL www.bellinghamgolfclub.com
major Jim Panton to provide Mustard, Kriss Akabusi, Richie GIFT VOUCHER
(min 12 people) VISITORS WELCOME 7 DAYS A WEEK
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NORTHERN GOLFER 17MATCHPLAYPAIRS
Seconds out... round two
Match Play Pairs results from round one
Match 1 Match 9 Match 17 Match 25
Neil Morrison & Ross Muirhead Sean Durran & David Adam Twiss Ray McCarthy & Ian Phillips (South Paul Foster & Dan Williams
(Boldon) LOST TO Kevin Hill & (Brancepeth Castle) BEAT Adam Moor) LOST TO David Cameron & (Romanby) BEAT Alan Slater &
Michael Rowell (Arcot Hall) Score: Bates & Dean Bates (Darlington/ Rodney Martin (Beamish) Score: Anthony McKeown (Ramside)
1st extra hole Blackwell Grange) Score: BYE 1up Score: 3&1
Match 2 Match 10 Match 18 Match 26
Craig Tetley & Alan Bendelow Peter Simpson & Barry Walker Kevin Broadfoot & Paul Stocks David Pringle & David Naunton
(Romanby) BEAT Colin Mackay & (Alnmouth/Bamburgh Castle) BEAT (Close House) LOST TO Malcolm (Houghton le Spring) BEAT Martin
Les Gutteridge (Wallsend) Michael Hughes & Stephen Turnbull Crowson & Ian Towell (Oulton Hall/ Mayoh & Stephen Eltringham
Score: 4&3 (Crook) Score: 4&3 Low Laithes) Score: 1up (Houghton le Spring) Score: 6&5
Match 3 Match 11 Match 19 Match 27
Dean Findley & Mark Dobson David Thompson & Terry Buckley David Jenkinson & Edumd Mark Laverick & Jon Douglas
(Durham City) BEAT John Jamfrey (Billingham) BEAT Malcolm Thompson (Houghton le Spring/ (Stocksfield) BEAT Stephen Bell &
& Robert Ellison (Roseberry Grange) Cregan & Rob Shanks (Prudhoe/ Wearside) BEAT Ian Rand & Justin Ian Duff (Hobson) Score: 3&2
Score: 1up Westerhope) Score: 3&2 Flannigan (Billingham) Score: 5&4
Match 28
Match 4 Match 12 Match 20 Keith Muldoon & Phil Fitzimons
Duncan Foster & Neil Timbey(South James Guy & James Melville Ben King & Michael King (Durham City) BEAT Steve Buxton
Moor) LOST TO John Barnes & (Crook) BEAT Dan Hutchinson & (Bellingham) LOST TO Brian & James McCullagh (Romanby)
David Wailes (Arcot Hall/Bedlington) Andrew Dixon (Durham City) Score: Crampton & Andrew Williams Score: 8&7
Score: 3&2 5&4 (Durham City) Score: 5&4
Match 29
Match 5 Match 13 Match 21 Matthew Dowdall & Richard
Richard Wallhead & Peter Rudd Adam Murphy & Brendan Murphy Johnny Harrison & Adam Reid Mains (Cleveland) LOST TO
(Rothbury/Whitley Bay) LOST TO (Tynedale) VS David Robison & (Bishop Auckland/Wynyard) BEAT Peter Newman & Jason Green
Vaughan Raine & Shaun Elliott Harry Iveson (Whickham) Score: James Carr & Adam Richardson (Brancepeth Castle)
(Crook) Score: 4&2 TBC (Tyneside) Score: 2&1 Score: BYE
Match 6 Match 14 Match 22 Match 30
Barry Cranston & David Hornsey Stewart Breckon & Stuart Whithorn Nick Sibley & Geoff Cruickshank Colin Arthur & Ralph Brown
(Consett) BEAT Ray Pipe & Simon (Bishop Auckland) BEAT Will (Eaglescliffe) BEAT Paul Scott & (Oakleaf) LOST TO Simon Watson
Crowther (Rockliffe Hall/Slaley Hall) Herron & Cameron Bowman Trever Hodge (Newbiggin/Morpeth) & Russell Taylor (Longhirst)
Score: 6&5 (Bedlingtonshire/Newbiggin) Score: Score: 4&3 Score: 3&2
3&2
Match 7 Match 23 Match 31
David Malston & Rob Coulson Match 15 Paul Whittaker & Murray Newell Tom Craven & James Lagan
(Whickham) BEAT George Ashley Coveney & Andrew Howard (Tynemouth) BEAT Alan Anderson (Romanby/Rockliffe Hall) LOST TO
Longthorn & John Littlejohns (Crook) (Crook) BEAT Steve Weldon & Alan & Paul Smith (Ryton) John Buxton & Gareth Hold (Wilton)
Score: 1up Saunders (Westerhope) Score: 5&3 Score: 3&1 Score: 4&3
Match 8 Match 16 Match 24 Match 32
Gary Atkinson & Stephen Carter Ray Glendinning & George Freeman Richard Woods & Peter Holland Matthew Sibley & David Wainman
(Durham City) BEAT Bob Hughes (Hobson) LOST TO Steve Slater & (Whitley Bay) BEAT James Ogden (Eaglescliffe) BEAT Gary Donnison
& Stewart White (Chester-le-Street) Colin Henderson (City of Newcastle) & Kevin Nixon (Tynemouth) & Keith McGreevy, (Gosforth)
Score: 2&1 Score: 20th hole Score: 4&3 Score: 7&6
For the Round two draw pease visit www.northerngolfer.co.uk
18 NORTHERN GOLFERBEAMISH HALL
STAY AND PLAY
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FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST
*BASED ON TWO PEOPLE
OPENS
25TH JULY GENTS SENIORS
4BBB £22 PER PAIR
7TH AUG LADIES TEAM OF 4
EVENT £36 PER TEAM
23 AUG MIXED TEXAS
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14TH SEPT GENTS 4BBB
STABLEFORD £22 PER PAIR
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RYTONBACKTOITSBEST
Ryton Golf Club is looking forward to the rest of the 2019 season with the golf
course back in superb condition thanks to the club’s hard work over the winter
A popular club for visitors
with its fine, easy walking
parkland layout, Ryton
remains a great test with the
greens in superb condition
once again.
A visitor friendly course,
where you will always receive
a very warm welcome and
can enjoy a round at your
leisure, the club’s recent open
days for all ages and abilities
have proved a huge success.
Improvements are
continuing around the club,
including the recent addition
of solar panels, and the club
is looking forward to more
changes during the season.
RYTON GOLF CLUB
Clara Vale
MEMBERSHIP DEAL VISITING PARTY DEAL
We are a PlayMoreGolf centre To celebrate our course back
to its best we are offering
1 free player per visiting party!
Visit our website for more details. (12+ players)
Clara Vale, Ryton, Tyne and Wear, NE40 3TD
www.rytongolfclub.co.uk Tel: 0191 413 3253
20 NORTHERN GOLFERCOLUMNIST
Dean Bailey
Fail to prepare…
Does proper preparation really matter for club golfers?
D
oes arriving early, having spent a few hours this into your weekend golf routine as it definitely makes
at the range through the week with a quick a huge difference compared to rushing to the tee juggling
lesson thrown in, really affect your scores a bacon sandwich and a cup of coffee.
in the Saturday medal? A couple of range sessions a week, along with regular
While I’m never going to put the time into the game putting and chipping work, is yielding results. Last year
to reach an elite level, even high club level, a little bit after 10 competitions, I’d been below or in the buffer
of effort can go a long way. Last season, I struggled to zone once and had nine .1 lifts. This year, with a bit of
maintain my handicap of 11 – clinging on with the odd effort through most weeks, not all of them, and taking
good result while riding the rollercoaster of .1 lifts. the time to hit balls before the first shot of the day, I’ve
If I was going to get back to enjoying competitive golf, been below the buffer zone three times, in the buffer
something had to change – and I knew it was going to three times and over the buffer four times - and two of
take more effort than I’d been putting in. Some work on those were by a single shot. A huge change on last year!
my swing, the first in years with someone who actually It’s amazing how much a little bit of knowledge and
knows what they’re talking about, has been huge – as has a bit of practising can improve the results for a very
a renewed passion for practising. It’s amazing how your average club golfer. Working with a professional is also a
desire to practise grows when you have something to huge bonus and I can honestly say I’m enjoying my time
work on properly. on the course and the practice ground more than I have
The second thing I’ve been doing this year, and one I in the last few years – even when things aren’t going
really notice if I miss it out, is hitting balls before I play. exactly to plan.
While I’m not going through a 45 minute session before Some people reading this won’t have the time to
the Saturday medal at my home club, hitting a few balls commit to a proper structure of lessons and practising,
and getting a feel for chipping and putting makes a huge but you can fit good practice into a small timeframe if
difference standing on the first tee or looking at a chip you need to. You’ll enjoy your golf more for it, and your
over a bunker at the first. If you do nothing else, I’d add scores are sure to improve too – it’s well worth the effort.
NORTHERN GOLFER 21TOURLIFE
Chris Paisley
Game, set, match
Chris Paisley checks in from Valderrama and brings us up to speed
following The Belgian Knockout and BMW International
S
ince my last article I have played Real Club had it been a 72 hole strokeplay event. The As I write, we are playing at
two events on the European Tour Valderrama disappointment didn’t last for long because I Valderrama, which is one of my favourite
- The Belgian Knockout and the really do just enjoy playing well, irrespective courses in the world. Preparation has
BMW International. of the result. I feel like my game and mind are gone smoothly and I feel as though I
In Belgium, I carded consecutive 65s in a great place so I am really positive about have tightened up my long game and
to be number one seed going into the the rest of the season. putting since Munich. What I love about
matchplay. I continued my good form Following a two week break, I missed Valderrama is that it will let you know
into the nine-hole matchplay rounds by the cut in Munich, but again I wasn’t too exactly how sharp your game is. Anything
beating Sam Horsfield in the first round, disappointed. One thing you learn out here is less than an 8/10 shot at any time and
but was knocked out by Gregory Havret that you can have a week where you are just you are struggling to make a par. It’s the
in round two. It was a shame that it was a a fraction off, you get the odd bad break, and ultimate test of your game and mind.
matchplay event in the end, because I had before you know it you’re heading home on It’s always entertaining watching people
the lowest score of anyone after 54 holes. Friday! It was one of those missed cuts where lose their minds as the round progresses.
I loved the course, which reminded me a you don’t really have a particular reason for There are some spots where you can be
lot of the tight, tree-lined courses you get missing the cut; I suppose the whole game on the fairway and be stuck behind a
in the North East of England, and I just felt wasn’t firing on all cylinders. I had a nice tree. Some of the guys don’t handle that
really comfortable. I have no doubt that I weekend at home in Hexham and worked on too well so I just sit back and enjoy the
would have had a really good chance to win tightening a few things up. head off !
NORTHERN GOLFER 23GIRLSGOLFROCKS
Sally Hinton-Lewis and girls from the Girls Golf Rocks
programme at Close House
Ready to rock
Girls Golf Rocks is back across the UK with thousands of girls getting the chance to
try golf for the first time thanks to England Golf and The Golf Foundation
24 NORTHERN GOLFERGIRLSGOLFROCKS
I
n the wake of the lionesses’ stellar ago, we only had our elite girls. Today the county has
performance in the women’s football two coaching groups that come together nine times
world cup, and as England women a year. Next year, we’ll need to host another session,
cricketers ride the crest of a winning which is fantastic.
wave, girl power is also very much to the fore “That growth has been driven by the work
on the golf course. of England Golf and The Golf Foundation, and
In fact, thanks to our women footballers, tremendous support from our clubs in delivering the
cricketers and international golfers like Georgia Hall, Girls Golf Rocks programme.
Charley Hull and Bronte Law, international women’s “So many of the girls coming to our coaching
sport has never been so high profile, and the huge have been introduced to the game through Girls Golf
success of a national programme designed to attract Rocks, and they’ve been inspired by the programme
girls to golf promises to deliver its own boost to the and the work of our ambassadors at their sessions.”
women’s game. As well as having more girls in the county
Girls Golf Rocks is in its fifth year across the UK, system, Bobby sees more girls at clubs too. She says:
attracting hundreds of girls to taster sessions and “Having the groups of girls at so many of our clubs
coaching at clubs across Northumberland, Durham, is great. So many of them are staying engaged with
Cumbria and Yorkshire. golf after their introduction because they’ve now got
The programme, run by England Golf and The other girls to play with.
Golf Foundation, is now operating across 26 golfing “It’s really important to have those groups of girls
counties, and here in the north, it is making its mark, in as many clubs as possible. With those, more girls
as Durham county junior organiser Bobby Griffiths will stay in golf and hopefully progress into long-
attests. “I’m absolutely over the moon with the term golfers. It’s a very exciting time for girls golf in
programme,” says Bobby, who took on her role five Durham – from the youngest girls right through to
years ago. “I’ve never had so many girls involved with our girls out in America on golf scholarships.”
the county system. In 2018, when 21 counties were involved in
“When I took over as junior organiser five years the programme, 1,650 girls aged 5-18 took part in
NORTHERN GOLFER 25GIRLSGOLFROCKS
free taster sessions. Of those, 1,210 went on to Left - Girls and The Golf Foundation to inspire the far, there is a real appetite from our coaches
complete coaching sessions and 157 took up Golf Rocks next generation. and clubs to grow the programme and make
membership at a club. ambassador “We’ve also been lucky to have such it an even bigger success. The passion from
This year, 1,800 girls took part in free taster Cassidy great ambassadors in Rebecca Hall, Maggie so many of the clubs, not just the coaches
sessions across the UK in May. Following the Hamilton Sandison, Rachel Gourley and Maggie but the volunteers and the people around
taster sessions, the girls are invited to take part with some Whitehead. Hopefully the girls will go on the clubs, is really inspiring. It’s great to see
in group beginners’ coaching over six weeks, of the girls to follow in the elite girls’ footsteps. If they clubs driving this programme collectively –
and from there, many clubs offer introductory at Darlington don’t, they’ll go on to play golf in clubs making sure things are in place for the girls
memberships and further instruction. Golf Club and from there they will inspire the next and their parents to enjoy the sessions and
In Durham - which hosted its first sessions generation of girls to try the sport.” feel part of the club.
in 2016 - Castle Eden, Darlington, Houghton- Right - Girls Lauren Spray, England Golf women and “I’ve been the only girl in a golf club
le-Spring and Woodham are all taking part. in action at girls’ manager, says: “Girls’ golf is an area with before and it’s very exciting to see thousands
Meanwhile, sessions are held at Barrow, Close House huge potential for growth. Our partnership of girls trying golf. There are more hubs of
Carus Green, Eden and Penrith in Cumbria. In
with Sally with the Golf Foundation started with a pilot girls coming through each year and it will
Yorkshire, sessions are being held at Bedale,
Hinton-Lewis programme in Essex in 2014 specifically for continue to grow as we go forward.
Cookridge Hall, Moor Allerton, The KP and other girls and this year we’ve reached more than “The aim of Girls Golf Rocks is to
clubs across the county. 1,800 girls with taster sessions. introduce girls to the game and make it as
Meanwhile, in Northumberland, “Our research shows that we need to much fun as possible. Of course, some of the
Bedlingtonshire, Matfen Hall, Morpeth, provide girls with an environment where girls taking part will go on to competing and
Ponteland, Tynemouth and Close House are they’re with other girls. Some girls are that is going to be one of the many benefits
taking part. PGA professionals Sally Hinton- prepared to compete alongside the boys of having more girls playing golf.
Lewis and Will Robson are hosting more than from an early age, but so many aren’t and “We’ll be really proud when we get girls
30 girls at Close House at the moment. Sally they miss out on the opportunity because on the national stage that have picked up
says: “It’s been really inspiring to see some of the there aren’t the same numbers of girls in our a club through Girls Golf Rocks, but we’ll
girls from our first year taking part in my county sport currently. This programme is all about be equally proud to see more girls playing
academy coaching this year, the same system all enjoying the game and building friendships golf in every form having taken part in
the England internationals from Northumberland through golf, and creating opportunities for the programme.”
have progressed through. We’ve also got girls girls to play golf.” Sessions continue across the region
who’ve gone on to join clubs locally, which makes The phased roll-out of the programme, in the coming weeks, with further
me really proud as we’ve inspired them to do that which will grow further in 2020, has allowed sessions available at each of the clubs
through Girls Golf Rocks. England Golf and The Golf Foundation to taking part. If you’ve missed the start
“The elite level of golf in Northumberland is ensure clubs are prepared to support the girls of this year’s programme, contact a
in a really good place right now and it’s fantastic following the programme. host club or visit www.englandgolf.org/
to have the national support of England Golf Lauren added: “From what we’ve seen so girls-golf-rocks
26 NORTHERN GOLFERYou can also read
