Thursday Night Golf Society

Mons makes it a double and leads OOM

2011-08-01T02:29:00.000-07:00

Mons took his second title of the year and a good lead in the OOM as the season approaches its climax. Ralph Jago maintained his good form with 2nd place and Mr Angry Denners was third....

Lee Denners was 4th beating Tony Davidson on Count back.

6th Was Al Mason with Neil Simps bringing up the rear.....

Whittlebury Invitational
1st Chris Monaghan 34 Points
2nd Ralph Jago 30 Points
3rd Chris Denoven 27 Points
4th Lee Denoven 25 Points
5th Tony Davidson 25 Points
6th Al Mason 24 points
7th Neil Simper 18 points

Jagster notches up first win at Tilsworth

2011-08-01T02:10:00.000-07:00

Ralph Jago took the spoils at the new venue of tilsworth. With a couple of new player in the field Mark Waters and tony Davidson, Ralph stormed to 41 points on what was considered one of the most straight forward courses on the tour so far.

Chris Branton, Many people's favourite for the OOM title, just fell short in his search for a first season tour win with 40 points.

New Bandit takes the spoils at Abbey

2011-05-07T12:12:00.000-07:00

Newbie Mark Tyerman showed up with Snatch, fended off the rain and won first time out.

The 26 handicap Dominic Littlewood lookalike - shot a solid 35 points to pip Monners.

Springy was 3rd, with Big Al, Jagster and Brants folowing on.Simper pipped Blatch who snuck Fergie out on Count Back....

Sarrau Soars to Breadsall Masters Cown

2011-05-07T10:20:00.000-07:00

At the biggest annual event of the TNGS, Pierre Sarrau carried off the title with 2 days of great golf. The amiable Frenchman shattered the Moorland Course with a blistering 46 points as calm conditions helped the 19 strong field to shoot low. 5 players ended with more than 40 points and the pre drinking golf was of the highest order.

The honorary Northern Monkeys Simon Bedford and Lee Parkinson showed up fantastically well with 2nd and 3rd with Neil I'm not Ralph's brother Simper coming in 4th - Chris Branton was 5th with 41 points!

Day 2 the TNGS moved on to the tougher Priory course - and with scores lower Richard Johnson backed up his partner in crime Pierre to come through with 36 points.

The two days results provided interesting reading and were added to the OOM.

Monners sneaks ahead in the OOM with Branton playing catch up and the Northern Monkeys needing to to visit the Southerners to challenge for the title.

All in all another awesome weekend away for the TNGS boys...

Super Mon flies to 3 Locks Win

2011-03-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

The 3rd event of the TNGS Order of Merit saw Chris "Tourettes is my friend" Monaghan win at a sunny 3 Locks Golf Course. Mons shot a decent 34 points to win by 6 points from Al Gwilliam (Big Al Junior). Jason Fergusson came in 3rd beating the Jagster on count back. Neil Simper was 5th with Big Al Mason 6th and Ken in 7th.

Monaghan - 34pts - 7OOM points
A Gwilliam - 28 pts - 6 OOM Points
Fergsusson - 27 pts CB - 5 OOM Points
Jago- 27pts - 4 OOM Points
Simper - 22 pts - 3 OOM Points
Mason 18 pts - 2 OOM Points
Ken 9 pts - 1 OOM Point

Table
Monaghan 16
Ferguson 9
Branton 9
Mason 8
Groves 7
Jago 7
Malone 6
Gwilliam 6
Simper 3
Ken 1

Big Al romps to New Year win

2011-01-30T11:45:00.000-08:00

Big Al Mason won the first TNGS event of 2011 in Icy conditions of hardcore players.

Mason put his room sharing worries with Ferguson behind him, to shoot a creditable 35 points in tough conditions at Abbey Hill.

Chris "I dont think Richard Keys is a bad bloke" Malone came in Second with Branton knocked back to 3rd and Monners 4th. Jason "I'm really looking forward to our trip Mons" Ferguson held up the field in 5th.

Mason - 35 pts - 5OOM points
Malone - 33 pts cb - 4 OOM Points
Branton - 33 pts - 3 OOM Points
Monaghan - 29 pts - 2 OOM Points
Ferguson - 23 pts - 1 OOM Points

Table
Branton 9
Monaghan 7
Groves 7
Mason 6
Malone 6
Ferguson 4
Jago 3

Handicap changes:

Mason 23.1
Monaghan 16.1
Ferguson 24.7

Next event

February 26th Saturday

Rest of the 2010 -2011 Calendar

2011
February 26th Saturday
March 26th Saturday
April 11th 12th Sunday Monday Away Trip – Breadsall Priory - Derbyshire
May 29th Sunday
June 25th Saturday
July 31st Sunday
August 27th Saturday
September 25th Saturday (Society Championship Type Thing – Decent Course - followed by beers)
October 30th Sunday

Society Handicap Rules

Points better than 36 points -0.3 per point
Points worse than 30 points +0.1 per point
Winning an event -1.0 (not applied to the Abbey event but will be going forward).

Mons

2010-12-13T05:53:00.000-08:00

The inaugural Thursday Night Golf Society Event saw a stellar (or should that be Stella) field grace the magnificent Abbey Hill Golf Club.
In near perfect weather, TNGS saw its best scoring with no-one falling under 29 points.

DMan Groves took the honours with a “cuttable” 44 points, with Chris “I didn’t realise anyone else was allowed to win” Branton coming in 2nd with 39 (which had a couple of handicap protecting blobs). Chris “my tourettes is improving” Monaghan was 3rd with 35.

Abbey Result:

OOM as at Oct 2010

Going forward We’ll add a £3 Kitty fee (£2 to the event and £1 to go towards an OOM Prize at the end of the year)

Next event

February 26th Saturday

Rest of the 2010 -2011 Calendar

2011
February 26th Saturday
March 26th Saturday
April 11th 12th Sunday Monday Away Trip – Breadsall Priory - Derbyshire
May 29th Sunday
June 25th Saturday
July 31st Sunday
August 27th Saturday
September 25th Saturday (Society Championship Type Thing – Decent Course - followed by beers)
October 30th Sunday

Society Handicap Rules

Points better than 36 points -0.3 per point
Points worse than 30 points +0.1 per point
Winning an event -1.0 (not applied to the Abbey event but will be going forward).

Mons

150th Open Golf Championship - Tips and Picks

2010-07-14T01:53:00.001-07:00

The Open returns to St Andrews this year with as many people interested in interviewing Tiger as watching golf.

Here are my tips for the week:

the Favourites :

Tiger Woods - 7-1 - the Longest odds for him in a major for a long time. His putting has been causing him trouble (in fact Nike has bullied him into changing it) and he's not got a great track record in bad weather - however he has won here twice and could eat the course up.

Justin Rose - 20-1 - In great form - has won the last 2 times out on PGA Tour. Seems more relaxed than ever. However, he has the poor habit of one bad round a major, time for him to step up.

Padraig Harrington- 25-1 - Not in great form but apparently swinging the club the best ever and has won the open twice. Wont mind the predicted bad weather.

Ian Poulter - 25-1 Good record in the Open - having a good year, but is in a slight lull. Has been gearing himself up for the Open

Luke Donald - 40-1 - Getting back to his best, very steady and has played well in bad conditions before.

Outsiders

Bo Van Pelt - 140-1 - An "unknown" american always tends to do well and Van Pelt is having a steady year and putts well.

Paul Lawrie - 250-1 - Former Open Champion - loves crap weather and links courses - could go well.

Franscesco Molinari - 66-1 - His brother won last week, but this guy has a fantastic touch and is having a very good year.

Waterville Golf Links voted in to top 100 courses

2010-05-06T08:55:00.000-07:00

Golf Magazine (U.K.), the most prestigious of the European Union Golf Magazines, has published the rankings of the top 100 courses in Britain and Ireland for almost 40 years. Waterville first hit the 1988 list in the humble position of 49, and over the years, with patience and substantial investment, rose to their current position of 13^th in Britain and Ireland.

This year, using their time tested formula and the worldwide experience of their raters, they have produced their first ranking of the “Top 100 Courses in the World”. Waterville is honoured to be part of this prestigious fraternity. The course is a must on your travels to South West Ireland, and whilst not as well known as Ballybunion or Tralee, Waterville links is my personal favourite. A hearty BRAVO should be given to Noel Cronin and his staff, Mike Murphy and his ground crew, and of course, Tom Fazio and the staff of Fazio Design.

This is the year to plan your return to Waterville – the dollar is strong, airfares are cheap, the Guinness is smooth and Waterville Links is at its best. Oh Yes! The very respected Irish Farmers Almanac (consultant to NASA) is predicting a dry summer and Lough Currane produced two trophy fish recently – 11lb 2oz Sea trout and 19lb Salmon

Sweden withdraw from race to host The 2018 Ryder Cup

2010-03-31T13:23:00.000-07:00

Sweden withdraw from race to host The 2018 Ryder Cup

The Swedish Golf Federation and Scandinavian Golf Event Management (SGEM), the company behind the country’s bid to host The Ryder Cup, have decided to withdraw their candidature for the 2018 contest and switch their focus to the 2022 event.

The organisers cited a weakened economy and insurmountable challenges in terms of sourcing the necessary finances – including lack of Government funding - as the reasons for their decision to pull out of the race.

France, Germany, Holland, Portugal and the city of Madrid are the other parties involved in the bid to stage the biennial match in 2018.

Jacob Wallenberg, Chairman of SGEM, said: “The Ryder Cup is a fantastic event and it is regrettable that it was not possible to resolve the funding for 2018. However, Sweden needs major events and one of these may be The Ryder Cup. We will work to ensure we can make a new application for 2022.”

Richard Hills, Ryder Cup Director, said: “We fully respect Sweden’s decision to withdraw from the bidding process for The 2018 Ryder Cup. These are challenging times and we appreciate the complexities of preparing a submission which meets all the necessary criteria.

“Swedish golfers have played a leading role in Europe’s recent Ryder Cup successes and we hope that Sweden will be in a position to make a vigorous bid to stage the event when it returns to Europe in 2022.

“Meanwhile we look forward to receiving the official bid documents from the five parties still involved in the 2018 process, namely France, Germany, Holland, Portugal and Madrid.”

So, with Portugal still in the hunt (and would be very popular with the British and Irish vote), which of the courses would be considered. Well from a course quality point of view and logistics, its difficult to see any of the Lisbon courses to be considered. Despite the quality of Troia and Oitavos Dunes, I think they are both far too short and certainly do not have the logistical or financially structures. So that leaves us the Algarve courses.

Of these, I would suggest there are 5 main contenders:

Quinta Do Lago - with 3 courses on site its a golfing hotbed and lots of quality. It has decent infrastructure and is pretty close to the airport, so its a contender.

Oceanico Victoria - Probably the favourite. Hosts the Portugal Masters and Oceanico is the largest Golf Business on the Iberian Peninsula. Add to this their partnership with Troon Golf, it's easy to see the event taking place there.

San Lorenzo - Probably too short to host the event, but we can dream!

Vale Do Lobo - Similar to Quinta Do Lago, with two very good courses and decent infrastructure and extremely popular with British and Irish golfers alike.

Monte Rei - The Nicklaus course is modern and well respected, but probably too far off the "beaten track" to compete.

Its difficult to predict who is the favourite for the event. Spain has Madrid, and is a very strong contender, but has had the event before - which may count against them.

Germany probably fancy their chances. The Langer effect should not be underestimated, a Ryder Cup hero (as captain and player). But golf is not growing as quickly as the Germans would like and with only one real chance of a player (Martin Kaymer) it may go against them.

France and Holland bring up the rear. The French have plenty of decent courses to boast and have enjoyed a growing reputation in their playing base, whilst the Dutch seem to be making up the numbers in the bid.

For me, Portugal would be a great venue both for the courses and the weather. But my money would be on France being awarded the Competition. One thing is for sure, whoever is hosting, they will need to welcome British and Irish fans with open arms.

Poulter on top of the World

2010-02-22T02:52:00.000-08:00

Ian Poulter crowned a memorable week for English Golf by capturing the World Golf Championship Matchplay event in Tuscon Arizona.

The Woburn based player defeated his compatriot Paul Casey 4 and 2 in the 36 Hole Final. Poulter, who has been knocking on the door of a big win, was suitable delighted.

Woburn is one of the best golf complexes in the UK. It boasts 3 championship courses, all of which are fantastically well kept and have hosted event such as the European Tour's British Master, the English Seniors Open and the Ladies English Open.

The 3 courses are the Marquess, the Dukes, and the Duchess.

The Marquess is the most recent addition to the stable and is considered by most to be the strongest course of the three. Personally, my favourite is the Dukes.

It boasts such a variety of golf holes, with unique terrain and challenges along the way. Take the 3rd for example. Its a short downhill par 3 measuring just 134 yards, framed by rhododendron bushes, has recently been voted into the 'World's Top 500 Holes' by Golf Magazine.

the Par 5 5th is also a great test, lind of the tee is a huge swale to the left of the fairway, waiting to gobble up any ball not long or straight enough - a hit and hope shot then awaits the victim.

Its this use of the natural land which makes the Dukes so appealing. the little known Charles Lawrie.

Get yourself to Woburn and dont be picky which course to play, you'll love all three of them.

Tiger Woods - Who do you think you are?

2010-02-19T05:51:00.000-08:00

Tiger Eldrick Woods, never has one man had such an influence on the sport he has played. Woods' meteoric rise to fame is global. His fan base is huge, his talent unrivalled.

Woods has been number one in the World Golf Rankings since 2005 and has collated 14 major championship wins in a fantastic career.

Golf fans adore him and, when news broke of the marital problems, most of us shrugged our shoulders. He's human, we all make mistakes. We want to see Tiger back and playing.

Yet, his announcement to run a "media circus" during one of the largest competitions his fellow professionals play, has left me fuming. Tiger doesn't think he is bigger than the game, it appears he thinks he is the game.

Ernie Els reacted first calling it "selfish" and that he felt sorry for the sponsor.

The sponsor, Accenture, was a previous main sponsor for Tiger. Accenture pulled the sponsorship following his "marital problems"....., now Tiger has exacted revenge by overshadowing their flagship event.

Woods is probably the greatest golfer we have ever seen, but he has lost me as an admirer and a fan.....

Terrific Troia

2009-12-31T02:59:00.000-08:00

Lisbon is a developing golfing destination, with its great climate and fantastic history, it's become a great alternative to the golfing mecca that is the Algarve. I love Lisbon, its a historic city, yet small and modern enough to tour easily; but the main reason why I love Lisbon is I think its the best golfing destination in Europe.

It may not have the depth of great courses that the Algarve or Costa Del Sol has, but it certainly has the breadth.

Take Troia as an example. Where? I hear you ask. Troia.

It may sound like something out of Athenian legend, but its one of the best kept golfing secrets in Europe. True, it is tucked out of the way from the other main Lisbon golf courses (actually I enjoyed the trip and the ferry ride taking in the Dolphins). But its worth the trek.

Firstly you pass the historic city of Setubal. Including the 16th Century Fortress of St Filipe.

Troia Golf Course is a links style course, much in the same vane as Oitavos Dunes ( north of Lisbon). It's designed by the famous American golf architect Robert Trent Jones Senior, and is a spectacular links, and one of the most fascinating golf challenges in Portugal. The magazine Golf World elected in 2003, as the 25th best European Golf Course.

As mentioned, the usual approach to the Troia Golf Championship Course is straight over the Estuary of the Sado River - a pleasant short ferry ride from Setubal to the Peninsula of Troia, a region of great natural beauty near the Atlantic Ocean.

The greens are small with naturally shaped defensive bunkers and hummocks, while the fairways are narrow and hemmed in by sandy dunes and pine trees, providing a genuine test of skill for the lowers handicap golfers together with enjoyment for the more modest players.

The best accolade I can give this great golf course, is the fact that it ate my up and spat me out. But upon holing out on the 18th (after losing money to a Scot) all I could think about was how I would play it next time. I just hope I wont have to wait too long.

Harrington Giving back after difficult year

2009-12-28T02:40:00.001-08:00

Harrington Wishes Happy Christmas to the Poor of the Third World
Padraig Harrington is giving that winning feeling to those less fortunate
Posted Dec 08, 2009 - 5:19 PM by Dermot Gilleece

After three major championship wins in 14 months from July 2007, it was perhaps fanciful to think that Padraig Harrington could continue with that level of success through 2009. As it happens, he didn't have a win of any description this year on either side of the Atlantic, other than the Irish PGA Championship against a local, limited field at The European Club last July.

He has succeeded, however, in giving the winning feeling to those less fortunate than himself. Like the poor of the Third World who, through the Irish charity GOAL, were the beneficiaries of E50,000 from Harrington last Saturday (December 19th). The money was raised in a local, Dublin shopping centre where the player, helped by his caddie, Ronan Flood, disposed of a number of "old" sets of Wilson clubs, along with sweaters, shirts and various other memorabilia at knockdown prices.

Harrington also found time to sign countless autographs, but only in return for a contribution to the charity. It was his way of wishing "Happy Christmas" in a truly meaningful sense.

Meanwhile, this is the first time in the Noughties that he has ended a season without a tour win. The last time he drew a blank was in 1999 when he was going through his "runner-up" phase, with five seconds in Europe alone. His last outing was in the Chevron World Challenge at Thousand Oaks, California, where he was tied third with Lee Westwood behind the winner, Jim Furyk. That was when another Irishman, Graeme McDowell, took splendid advantage of a late call-up as a replacement for the tournament host, Tiger Woods, by finishing runner-up and securing sufficient world-ranking points to claim a place in the US Masters at Augusta National next April.

Is this latest blank a cause for concern? "Not really," replied the Dubliner, who reasons that while it could be termed a disappointing season for him where tournament results were concerned, there is a decidedly upbeat aspect to 2009. "I haven't been aware of being under any real scrutiny because of my failure to win," he said. "I believe I made significant progress this year in terms of developing by golf swing. It means I can now look forward to an eight-week break in which to fine-tune the various changes I've made."

As a guest at Thousand Oaks, he had his 76-year-old coach, Bob Torrance, who was experiencing California for the first time. Prior to this, Torrance was content to limit his travels across America to no further west than Fort Worth, Texas. where he gained a much-prized audience with his golfing idol, Ben Hogan.

Just press the appropriate button and Bob will talk passionately about that visit to the great man in which they discussed aspects of mutual fascination, related to the golf swing. And from a layman's perspective, he believes deeply in the Hogan dictum that the answer to all swing problems is to be found in the dirt. In other words, through dint of hours of patient work on the practice ground.

Much as he admired Hogan, however, Torrance had the good sense not to attempt to teach his famous power fade to the player who would become his star pupil. Rather did he settle on changing Harrington's low cut to a high draw which became solid enough to deliver his major championship triumphs. From Thousand Oaks, Torrance and Harrington set off for the Titleist research headquarters outside San Diego. Not that Torrance would place much store in high-tech elements of the modern game. For instance, he got Harrington into the right mood for a most productive autumn schedule, simply through lengthy sessions on the practice ground at Turnberry prior to the Open Championship last July. While it didn't achieve the desired dividend that week, the fruits of their labours became evident at Firestone and then in the PGA Championship at Hazeltine National.

A week later, Harrington was back at his home in south Dublin from where he has been doing the rounds of awards ceremonies. "I came away from the Chevron with a much clearer picture of what I need to work on during my winter break. I am looking forward simply to being at home; not having any deadlines, not having any schedule."

Harrington has never been a prolific winner in the sense that Westwood is. His 13 victories in Europe, three in the US and another in Japan, have come over a period of 15 years, starting with a breakthrough in the Spanish Open in Madrid in 1996.

But he has always given the impression of being there for the long haul, certainly until after 2016 when he hopes to celebrate golf's return to the Olympic Games. His total wins could be up to 25 by then. And if they happen to include further major successes, the chances are that this can be attributed to the work he has done with Torrance, specifically over the last 15 months.

Fota Island

2009-11-13T09:52:00.000-08:00

You know me......well actually you don't, but let's not dwell on that.

From my travels across many golf resorts, I have left my email address on more marketing lists than I care to mention. So I, like you all, get spammed to buggery. But in amongst some of the useless emails extolling the virtues of some 2nd rate golf course, there are a few gems that I like to be reminded of. I received one today......

Fota Island is nestled some 20 minutes from Cork City in Ireland. Ok, so my Irish bias may be prevailing but hear me out.

The resort, like a number in the Emerald Isle, has stunning scenery and with Cobh and Kinsale within reach its a perfect short break destination. But the golf course is a real gem. Home to the Irish Open for 2 years in the 90's, it benefits from 27 holes played across 3 different combinations.

The Deerpark is the layout they utilised for the Irish Open and its one I would recommend as a must if you are in the Cork area. The loop around 5-9 is awesome as you reach down my the river. The course has used the terrain, river and replanting really well. Good strong Par 5's and some intricate par 4's really allow you to enjoy the experience with opportunities to score well on most holes from the standard tees. The 18th is a breathtaking hole and has to be played to do it justice.

The hotel is superb, but for a great option hire one of the lodges, between 6 of you it can be really cost effective and is an awesome base for taking in other courses in the area.

If you're heading to the Cork area, I plead you to go to Fota........ you'll love it.

Oitavos Dunes makes 88th in Best Courses in the World

2009-11-12T12:17:00.000-08:00

Golf Travel bug has long been extolling the virtues of Oitavos Dunes. The links course of Lisbon is one of my top 5 favourite golf courses. Its a fantastic layout with awesome greens..... well now someone agrees with me.

Oitavos Dunes has recently been ranked as the 88^th best Course in the World by GOLF Magazine. In celebration Oitavos has created a TOP 100 package starting the 15^th of November and running until the 30^th of June 2010 which provides great value for serous golfers.

Click on www.oitavosdunes.pt/TOP100 and have a look at the GOLF Magazine article as well as the full TOP 100 list.

For more detailed information click on http://www.golf.com/golf

enjoy....

LISBOA GOLF COAST

2009-10-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

Hotel Quinta da Marinha Resort receives travel agents

The main aim of the Fam Trip - Lisboa Golf Coast was to get to know and explore the tourist potential of the Lisbon coast and the golf courses on offer. The event, which was based at the Hotel Quinta da Marinha Resort, brought together travel agents from Germany, Croatia, Poland, Denmark, Ireland, Sweden, UK, the Netherlands and France. Over five days in September, the participants had the opportunity to visit Cascais, Tróia, Óbidos and Lisbon, as part of an exciting program that included games on the Hotel Quinta da Marinha Resort course as well as at Troia Golf Course and Oitavos Dunes e Bom Sucesso Golf Course.

3 announces Killarney as venue for 3 Irish Open in 2010

2009-10-26T01:03:00.001-07:00

New 3 Irish Open date to bring tourism boost to Kerry

Dublin 20^th October 2009

3, Ireland’s fastest growing mobile network, is pleased to announce that the 3 Irish Open will take place next year at the Killarney Golf and Fishing Club from the 29^th July to 1^st August 2010.

This will be the third time that Killarney has hosted the Irish Open following consecutive events in 1991 and ’92. The event’s new prime slot on the European Tour is a major boost for title sponsors 3 and elevates the 3 Irish Open to the position of one of the most prestigious tournaments in European golf. The prize fund for the 2010 3 Irish Open will be over €3 million.

The staging of the 3 Irish Open over the August Bank Holiday weekend on the magnificent Killeen course, just weeks before the European Ryder Cup team is announced, is expected to attract golf’s marquee names to the Co Kerry venue. Many will still be in the chase to secure a place on the European team for the showdown with the USA at Celtic Manor in September 2010.

Robert Finnegan, Chief Executive of the title sponsor 3, said:

“Last year we were very proud to come to the rescue of the Irish Open, Baltray provided a wonderful spectacle in spite of bad weather and produced a fantastic finale with Shane Lowry winning after the third play-off hole.

As part of the National Broadband Scheme, we’re bringing much needed internet connectivity to rural Ireland and we’re delighted to announce today that we are bringing a real tourism boost to Co Kerry with the 3 Irish Open 2010. Killarney’s Killeen is a magnificent course in an idyllic setting and we expect many of the world’s top golfers to take part in what will be a magical weekend in one of the world’s great beauty spots.

After robust negotiations with The European Tour, we are delighted to have a new, improved date and our move to Killarney reflects the importance the 3 Irish Open will play in the weeks leading to the selection of the Ryder Cup team to take on the United States in Celtic Manor. It should also prove a big draw for golf fans to holiday in Kerry around the tournament and to enjoy the wonderful festival atmosphere we’ll bring to the Bank Holiday weekend.”

This year’s 3 Irish Open was the highlight of the sporting calendar, with amateur Shane Lowry delighting home fans during a fairytale play-off victory over England’s Robert Rock in Baltray.

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Martin Cullen TD said:

"I welcome the announcement of Killarney Golf and Fishing Club as the venue for the 2010 3 Irish Open, in its new late July slot in the golfing calendar. This famous and prestigious venue, set amidst the magnificent scenery of the Lakes of Killarney, is an ideal location to show Ireland as a golfing destination to millions of television viewers and prospective visitors worldwide. I wish to congratulate Killarney Golf and Fishing Club who successfully hosted the event in 1991 and 1992. I also welcome the continuing title sponsorship provided by mobile communications company 3. It is enabling the 3 Irish Open to grow into one of the most important events on the European Tour."

The Minister also said: "The 3 Irish Open also receives significant Government support through Fáilte Ireland. The worldwide media coverage of the event is an important element in our overall strategy to promote Ireland as a golfing and holiday destination.”

George O’Grady, Chief Executive of the European Tour, said:

“We are delighted to see The 3 Irish Open returning to Killarney. The Killeen Course at the Killarney Golf and Fishing Club is a truly world class lay-out and befitting of such a prestigious tournament. There were many outstanding candidates to host next year’s Irish Open, but the commercial benefits attached to the new date and venue made Killarney an irresistible choice for 3.”

Three-time Major winner Padraig Harrington has played the Killeen course. He said:

“The 3 Irish Open going to Killarney on this new date will make it a tremendous event. I believe the golf course is superb but I am 100 percent sure that the venue would be very popular on the tour with the players. That is very important - The Irish Open has to give a little bit more than other events: it has to give the whole package with people enjoying the whole week around the golf. That’s what The Irish Open did in the past and that’s what future Irish Opens have to do. We have to go forward and give a little bit more than everybody else. The guys will have a great time and I will be telling all the players to bring their families that week to have a great time regardless of how the golf goes. We have to deliver a little bit more than all the events on Tour.”

The Killeen course, which is the jewel in the crown of the three-course Killarney Golf Complex, was originally designed in 1972 by Eddie Hackett and Billy O’Sullivan. The Killarney lakes and high mountain range provide a stunning backdrop to this Championship course.

Re-opened in June 2006 the course is slightly longer with faster greens that have been brought closer to the water hazards around the course. At 6564 metres it will challenge long hitters with accuracy being vital as there is water on many of its holes. It previously staged the Irish Open in 1991 and 1992 when Nick Faldo won back to back victories. It also played host to the Curtis Cup in 1996.

INTA Group ceases trading

2009-10-24T03:22:00.000-07:00

The recession has taken another bite out of the golf travel industry. Following on from the Liquidation of both Barwell Leisure and Rightclub, Inta Group ceased trading 23rd October 2009.

Inta Group comprised of 3D Golf, Bill Goff Golf Holidays, Longshot Golf Holidays & 4Golf.com, Teetimes Anywhere.com. It was considered to be the 3rd largest golf tour operator in the UK. This news follows the merger of the above brands in 2007.

The websites for Bill Goff, Longshot, 4golf.com and Teetimes Anywhere are all down. however 3D Golf appear to have struck an introducer agreement with Your Golf Travel.

YGT is considered to be the 2nd largest UK Tour Operator in the UK and following the acquisition of Rightclub and the 3D Golf - they will have Golfbreaks.com in their sights.

All of this may be good news for YGT and Golf Breaks.com, however it leaves a near monopolistic environment for the UK Golf Travel market place, with only mid-sized players such as Premier Iberian and Golf Kings still breathing.

In particular, Golf break reliant courses across the UK, Spain and Portugal must have concerns as their UK footfall suppliers shrink amidst recession and a strong Euro.

WOODS AND MICKELSON HEADLINE STRONG AMERICAN CHALLENGE FOR WGC – HSBC CHAMPIONS

2009-10-15T13:39:00.000-07:00

Tiger Woods will aim to continue his remarkable record in the World Golf Championships arena when he and World Number Two Phil Mickelson headline an impressive American challenge for the WGC – HSBC Champions at the Sheshan International Golf Club in Shanghai from November 6-9.

The World Number One has enjoyed a decade of dominance in WGC events, claiming an astonishing 16 individual WGC titles in total. His first triumph came in the WGC – NEC Invitational at Firestone Country Club in Ohio in August 1999, while his most recent success came a mere two months ago at the same venue in the WGC – Bridgestone Invitational.

While next month sees the HSBC Champions elevated to a WGC event for the first time, it is a tournament Woods has not won in the past. Therefore, the chance to put that particular statistic right, while at the same time extending his own WGC record, is a challenge he admitted he will relish.

“I played in the HSBC Champions in 2005 and 2006 and I look forward to returning to Shanghai in November,” he said. “It is an event that symbolises the amazing progress of golf in Asia and its new WGC status underlines how firmly China has established its place on the global golf calendar.”

One man, however, who knows exactly what it takes to win the HSBC Champions is Phil Mickelson, who did just that in November 2007 when he emerged triumphant from a thrilling play-off at Sheshan against Englishmen Ross Fisher and Lee Westwood.

The left-hander finished in a tie for eighth place in the last HSBC Champions in November 2008 but has already experienced success in the WGC arena this year, bravely overcoming a spell of heat exhaustion and dehydration at the Doral Golf Resort and Spa in Florida in March, to hold off the challenge of fellow American Nick Watney on the final day to win the WGC – CA Championship.

“After The Open Championship, it is hard to think of a bigger and better tournament held outside America,” he said. “This tournament already had everything in place and deserves to be part of the WGC series. It has always attracted strong fields and so has a great reputation worldwide and I am really looking forward to trying to reclaim my title.”

Watney, along with fellow US PGA Tour winners in 2009 – Brian Gay, Jerry Kelly and Sean O’Hair – will make the trip to Shanghai as will Stewart Cink, who memorably pipped Tom Watson for The Open at Turnberry in July.

“I am really excited to be going to China for the first time,” said Cink, who already has a WGC title in his locker in the shape of the 2004 WGC – NEC (now Bridgestone) Invitational. “Anywhere the best players in the world are gathered together, you don’t want to miss out and I think it’s fantastic for world golf that China will be hosting the WGC – HSBC Champions.”

The WGC – HSBC Champions will feature an increased prize fund of US$7 million and will bring together tournament winners from all over the globe as well as the best players from the International Federation of PGA Tours.

Ballesteros and Christy Jnr to introduce Olazábal and O’Connor

2009-09-22T12:17:00.000-07:00

Spanish legend Seve Ballesteros will introduce his good friend and compatriot José María Olazábal via a video message at the World Golf Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in November.

Olazábal has asked Ballesteros, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1999, to introduce him but the 52 year old will unable to be there in person because of health reasons, having spent the past year battling a brain tumour.

Christy O’Connor Jnr, Jim Nantz and Arnold Palmer will be in attendance to present 2009 Inductees Christy O’Connor, Lanny Wadkins and the late Dwight D. Eisenhower, respectively, on November 2.

Ballesteros said: “It is fantastic knowing that José María will become a member of the Hall of Fame. He deserves it for all he has done and is still doing for golf. I am very happy for him as a professional but it makes me happier for him as a person. He really deserves to be there. He means a lot to me. He is one of my best friends and I have had the honor of sharing with him many different moments in our lives.

“He has been by my side in the good times and in the not so very good times and I will always be there for him. Provided I am unable to be physically there [at the ceremony], believe me that my heart and thoughts will be with you all. José María, welcome to the Hall of Fame my friend.”

O’Connor will be presented by his nephew, fellow Irish golfer O’Connor, Jnr., who said: “It will be an absolute privilege to recognise my uncle’s scores of achievements in golf as he is inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. He has been a great representative of Irish golf for so many years and it will be a magnificent night for him, our extended family and Ireland as a whole.”

Nantz, who shared broadcast responsibilities with Wadkins from 2002 to 2006, will welcome his former colleague and friend. Nantz said: “I am thrilled to present my dear friend at the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Lanny was a champion golfer at every stage of his distinguished career. What always impressed me the most was the way he represented the game with the utmost class and dignity. He is long deserving of this recognition and I consider it a deep honor to tell his story on November 2nd.”

Palmer, who will speak on behalf of the late President Eisenhower, said: “I couldn’t be more proud of anything than having the honor of presenting President Eisenhower at this year’s Induction Ceremony. He was a great American whom I admired very much and was fortunate enough to have as a close friend. I think it’s wonderful that he is being recognised on this level for the many contributions he made to the game. President Eisenhower received many honors in his life, but I think he would have really enjoyed this one.”

Jack Peter, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Hall of Fame, said: “Each year’s induction class represents stories in the game of golf that are both powerful and captivating. The guests who attend the ceremony and those who watch the international broadcast will enjoy hearing the personal stories and irreplaceable anecdotes that invariably surface during the evening. It’s a special time in golf and surely for the 2009 Class.”

The Induction Ceremony will take place at the World Golf Hall of Fame at the World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Florida, USA and will air the same night on the Golf Channel (US) at 2200 ET.

Penha Longa Spa and Golf Resort re-launches Golf Courses

2009-09-10T11:20:00.000-07:00

Sintra, Portugal, 15 July 2009 – Following a €2 million investment program, Penha Longa Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort is proud to unveil two newly renovated golf courses. All 27 holes—the 18 hole, par 72 championship course Atlantico and the nine-hole, par 35 Monastery course—offer unparalleled golf experiences in the serene and lush environment of the Serra da Sintra, just 30 minutes from Lisbon.

The renovation also included the preservation of the natural beauty, the protection of wildlife habitat and a sustainable water and resource conservation management. Penha Longa’s efforts to obtain sanctuary status on its courses has just been recognized for Environmental Stewardship by Audubon International. Penha Longa is the 1st course in Portugal and the 711th in the world to receive the honor to be a "Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary".

"Penha Longa has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program. They are to be commended for their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property," said Jim Sluiter, Staff Ecologist for the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Programs. "To reach certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas," explained Sluiter. These categories include: Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management.

Designed by Robert Trend Jones, Jr., the drainage and irrigation systems of both courses have been improved, using new technology and a more eco-friendly use of valuable water resources, including a computer-controlled sprinkler system, allowing the immediate adaption of actual wind and water need conditions.

All tees and greens underwent a full ventilation, environmentally friendly fertilization and top dressing to improve the root growth, overall quality of the plant, and the general condition of the surfaces. All bunkers were reshaped to increase protection from wind and water erosion, equipped with new white silica sand, and a more Floridian-style design has been adopted so the bunkers’ aesthetic appeal enhances the overall presentation of the golf courses thus providing maximum playability.

In an effort to improve the length of the course, new tees were added to the nine-hole Monastery course thus allowing golfers to explore the historical and palatial buildings of Penha Longa. Lakes play a major role in golf course design; they may be hazards for golfers and make a course more challenging. However, they also serve as water reservoirs which add to the landscaping while blending in harmoniously to the course. Thus, a new lake has been crafted on the Monastery course.

The new Faldo Academy will cater to new and existing golfers to develop and improve their golf skills. The academy includes a practice facility, indoor teaching school, driving range, and short game area.

The first phase of the 12 month-long renovation marked the summer 2008 opening of the Golf House’s new Arola restaurant by Spanish Master Chef Sergi Arola. It is the second partnership with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company following the success of his eponymous Arola at the Hotel Arts, Barcelona. The venture brings a new level of culinary delights, design and ambience to the Sintra region. Innovative, fashionable and defiantly cool, Arola is a relaxed and stylish restaurant featuring unobstructed views onto the greens of Atlantico while enjoying the soothing music by the resident DJ during the summer months. The menu offers a creative and contemporary twist to Portuguese cuisine, mixing tradition and heritage with the chef’s inimitable modern approach.

La Cala Golf

2009-09-07T10:52:00.000-07:00

New direct Golfing offer from La Cala.

SPECIAL OFFER

Treat yourself or a loved one by availing of this great hotel offer! Now 15% off!

Enjoy a Standard Queen Room with buffet breakfast and
1 Round of Golf or 1 Thermal Circuit Spa Experience.

La Cala are now discounting this offer for July, August, November and December by a whopping 15%, that's just €84! The offer is for a limited number of rooms, so book now and don't miss out!

01-Jan-2009 to 31-Dec-2009

HARRINGTON AND ELS RETURN TO BARCLAYS SINGAPORE OPEN

2009-09-05T04:04:00.000-07:00

HARRINGTON AND ELS RETURN TO BARCLAYS SINGAPORE OPEN

Major champions Padraig Harrington from Ireland and South African Ernie Els will return to play in this year’s Barclays Singapore Open, where they both finished runner-up last season.

The Barclays Singapore Open will be played on The Serapong Course at Sentosa Golf Club from October 29 to November 1 and will boast prize money of US$5million - once again making it the richest national Open in Asia.

Korea’s K.J Choi and Darren Clarke from Northern Ireland will add further star appeal to the tournament, which for the first time is being joint-sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour.

Harrington and Els are ranked ninth and 20th in the world, respectively, and finished tied for second place last weekend at The Barclays tournament in New York. They both missed makeable birdie putts on the final hole of the 2008 Barclays Singapore Open that would have forced a play-off with champion Jeev Milkha Singh from India.

The duo, who have both claimed three Majors Championships during their illustrious careers, will be looking to finish one place better this year.

Els also finished second in the 2006 Barclays Singapore Open when Australian Adam Scott beat him in a gripping three-hole play-off.

More marquee names will be announced in the coming weeks with players from all over the world eager to tee it up in the 46th edition of the event.

"The co-sanctioning of the Barclays Singapore Open will further enhance what has already become the flagship tournament in Asia. We look forward to an even more successful championship, both for the players and the spectators," said Robert Morrice, Chairman and Chief Executive of Barclays Asia.

As a full field event of 156 players, the Barclays Singapore Open will comprise 65 players from each Tour with a further 10 places available through a local qualifying event on the Sunday and Monday before the tournament starts. There will be nine invitations, four amateurs and three Singaporean professionals.

“The Barclays Singapore Open has not only put Singapore on the golfing map, it has announced Sentosa’s arrival on the world stage as a premier lifestyle destination and a playground for all leisure activities and sporting events.” said Low Teo Ping, Board Member, Sentosa Development Corporation and Vice Captain, Sentosa Golf Club.

Singapore’s national Open was not played between 2002 and 2004, but returned to the Asian Tour schedule in 2005 thanks to the support of Sentosa and efforts of the event promoter World Sport Group. Scott triumphed in 2005 and 2006 before Angel Cabrera of Argentina claimed the spoils in 2007.

This year’s Barclays Singapore Open will once again be broadcast live for all four days on the ESPN Star Sports network.

“The Barclays Singapore Open is the highlight of the year on the Asian golf calendar and World Sport Group are proud to promote the tournament for the fifth year in a row. We have over 10 years of experience in running golf tournaments in Asia and we have been able to use successfully use this knowledge to make the Barclays Singapore Open an event that is second to none in the region,” said Chris Jordan, Senior Vice President – Golf, World Sport Group.

Ribagolfe golf course, Lisbon, Portugal

2009-08-12T08:39:00.000-07:00

Lisbon is becoming a real hotbed for golf and the "main stream" golfers head to either south of Lisbon or Westerly to the Cascais and Estoril coast. However if, after negotiating the life-threatening Lisbon airport roundabout, you find you way over the amazing Vasco De Gama bridge you cn close in on one of the best kept secrets in Portugal.

Ribagolfe is situated about 40 minutes from the centre of Lisbon, close the small provinical town of Santo Estevao. The area is, in truth, fairly non-descript. But that is changing.

The "resort" boasts two very good golf courses, and dont be put off by the current (2009) infrastructure. The clubhouse is a not very glorified restuarant, and you're transported a couple of miles to the first tee. Arriving on the first tee, you may be forgiven for feeling a little let down.

The "resort" was due to have low density property development alongside a state of the art Clubhouse and facilities. Legal wrangles, however, have put paid to that. Development on the "resort" has only just commenced. However, the golf courses are well established and may yet tank the legal wrangles that have allowed it to mature well and develop some of the best greens to be played upon in Europe.

The Ribagolfe I Course is from Peter Townsend and European Golf Design and is set amongst the beautiful corks. Its feature is its greens. Wide and undulating in places - true and fast all over.

The second hole is a tempting par 5, drive to the top of the hill and a narrowing fairway, and the dogleg opens up to the right with raised green and two bunkers welcoming the big hitters. the 7th, a strong par 4 of 450 yards, brings you in sight of the first water - a natural lake running alongisde the fairway.

The 12th is a fabulous par 5, short enough to entice the big hitters and be playable for the average handicapper. The two tiered green is well protected by a lake and huge bunker.

The 14th is a great little par 4 with a stream running through it, tempting for the long drivers, but with enough hazards for errant irons off the tee. This hole is backed up with the terrific par 3 15th, aqua surrounded and a massive green.

Ribagolfe II

Ribagolfe II lies alonside the formidable first course, and presents a shorter and slightly lesser test. The fairways are more forgiving, and at 6,846 yards, the course is considerably shorter than its neighbour, but the array of lakes and pot bunkers makes it extremely interesting.

Designed by Michael King, it is another European Golf Design production

Carved through beautiful groves of cork oak trees, Ribagolfe's second course is a real pleasure to play during a golf holiday in the Lisbon area of Portugal.

Hotel in Cascais Vivamarinha

2009-07-29T13:31:00.000-07:00

Winding back from the picturesque fishing port of Cascais you can run into the suburb of Quinta Da Marinha. An affluent, small and charming place for any traveller.

There are two main hotels in the suburb. Quinta Da Marinha, with its own pretty good golf course, and VivaMarinha a new 5 star resort.

Viva Marinha lies in between Oitavos Dunes and a flourishing equestrian centre. A five star resort, it is the perfect place for golfers and families alike. The resort has a range of apartments and suites, all have fantastic space and well-equipped kitchen.

Vivamarinha provides high quality service at an affordable price and refershingly the cafe bar does not attempt to cash in too heavily on food and beverage.

A great pool for the children and pefect sun terrace for the adults with towel and bar services.

Sintra, Cabo do Rocha and Cascais are all within a short drive and are highly recommended for a visit.

Cascais Golf Courses

2009-07-23T05:12:00.001-07:00

There aren't too many golf holiday destinations that allow you to sample the delights of a richly historical capital city as well as a diversity of golf second to none. Lisbon is one of them.......

Often rated behind its sibling, the Algarve, Lisbon offers so much to the golfer. Like so many European capital cities, Lisbon has its roots touched by the Roman Empire, but much of its traditions and architecture is influenced by the later arrival of the Moors.

From a golfing perspective the region can be loosely split in two. Noth Lisbon & the Estoril Coast and south Lisbon.

My first port of call was to the stunning course at Oitavos Dunes in Quinta Da Marinha, a small and affluent area of Cacais

Arthur Hills designed the course, which has risen to one of the most popular tracks on the European Tour rosta, and his name should tell you most of what you need to know about Oitavos Dunes. Hills' design awards are legendary in the US, and the fact that he was tempted to over the Atlantic for the project suggests he fell in love with this corner of Western Europe.

The course feels linksy and with wind a daily factor, its a challenging test. All the Par 3's are stunning, the third being a typical links par 3. The stroke index 1 Par 4 6th is a brute in to the prevailing wind. The flyover course guide does not demonstrate how tough the 14th is in to the wind, with the Pro's often hitting 1 Iron's in to the green - one of the best 3's in the world.

The clubhouse is beautiful and is brilliantly designed to ensure shelter out side from whichever way the wind is blowing.

All in all, Oitavos Dunes is one of the finest golf courses in Europe, let alone in Portugal and with around 16,000 green fees played per annum its not crammed with players, allowing you to enjoy the stunning views, fast greens and challenge that is Oitavos.

Awesome Arden

2009-04-24T03:30:00.000-07:00

Update on a few courses,

In October, I enjoyed a few round in Spain..

Monte Mayor (the marmite course) you either love it or hate it..... I'm of the latter......

Almenara - fantastic 3 loops of nine we played the Alcornoques and Los Lagos. Great track and one of the best value courses on the Costa Del Sol, its right next door to Valderrama.

Rio Real I like the course, if you ignore the pipework showing along the old river bed! had agood run round the back nine, 2 birdies and 4 pars......

La Cala Europa Played like a dog!!! - still a good track though!!!!

Torrequebrada really good track and clubhouse, but the greens really let it down when we played it...

I then travelled to Golf Holiday Turkey and played a couple of courses, The NAtional at Belek - very good track and the best in the area - and the Gloria Old Course, pretty good and in good condition very much a resort course though.

Following my trips away, I have had the pleasure of playing two UK courses since the turn of the year.

Firstly the 2010 Ryder Cup Course at Celtic Manor

Overall the course was not in great condition, and the greens need some serious work before next year. The Pros have complained of them being way to soft. The front nine was (in truth) pretty forgettable, but the back nine is stunning.... and 18th is an awesome Ryder Cup hole.

Took the money off the ginger prince, which is always good.

More recently, I had the absolute pleasure of playing the Forest of Arden (the Arden Championship course). Which I rate as in the top 5 of inland courses in the UK, the back 9 is quite simply brilliant, Fantastic use of the land, and definiton on the course is second to none. It is a much better course than the Brabazon and very under valued.....

Luton Who?

2008-11-11T01:17:00.000-08:00

Had the pleasure of visiting Luton Hoo with Mrs GolfTraveBlog.... excellent hotel, taken an old fashioned building, renovated it and kept its traditional values (very good afternoon tea!!!!)

I played the golf course......mmmmmm not sure.....

Apparently English Heritage interferred significantly. No Bunkers as it "would detract from the natural habitat" - I ask you.....

Still a good venue for corporate golf days

Scotland, bonny Scotland

2008-03-10T07:06:00.000-07:00

Took a trip to Scotland to visit Paul Lawrie, and we chatted a few things through. We then took a drive down the coast to Carnoustie, I had a meeting with the team at the Carnoustie golf hotel, and then got to play the Championship course, it was under winter protection but what an AWESOME course it is and I made 3 down 18........

The we drove to the Gleneagles Hotel, expensive and a tad pretencious, but absolutely stunning, for corporate golf days and events its a must..... a couple of days later we played the Kings Course, which was excellent but it blew a gale. 2 Birdies were a pretty good return for the day and took the money!!

In between this we visited Devere Cameron House, it has to be one of the best Hotels I have visited. Great service, location and views to die for across Loch Lomond.

The golf course is the Carrick

Its a great golf course and the whole resort is a must for your golf break in scotland

some terrific holes, very playabale and fantastic service

long time no blog...

2007-09-05T01:36:00.000-07:00

What a poor effort......I put it down to playing too much golf!!!!!!

Anyway apologies for that. Its been a busy summer of golf and let me tell you where I've played over the last couple of months.....

Played at Piperdam in Scotland before the Open Championship at Carnoustie. It was an invitational day from the Andalucian Tourist board. It P**sed it down wth rain, but I persisted and came in 2nd (and ahead of my scumbag brother!!!) so it was worth it....

Had a good day playing with Ricardo from Almenara Golf Resort and also Salva from the hidden gem that is Santana.

Caroustie was fantastic and it was so brilliant to see Padraig win. I'm good mates with Padraig'sagent from IMG and he was delighted and partied hard for a few days. hopefully this result will mean more European players can "do the job" on the final day.

In August I played the Oulton Hall Golf Day on the Euro Pro Tour Pro Am. Great day. Good hotel and quite a nice course although it was a little tight in places, but generally well kept.....didn't play too well but enjoyed some of Richard Barker's hospitality.

Looking forward to the Rugby world cup starting this week.....come on Ireland

Angel Cabrera

2007-06-18T09:10:00.001-07:00

Well done to Angel Cabrera for his win at Oakmont (what a brute of a course) in the 2007n US Open. Kept his nerve and held off a pretty focussed Tiger.

I also had a good win yesterday at Whitttlebury in the Mixed Foursomes - won at the 19th Hole..... Hit a great shot in to the green over water.......pretty pleased!!!!!!!!

Off to France soon to play La Baule and St Jean De Monts - anyone who has played these two please let me know.....

Marriott Worsley Park Pro Am

2007-06-06T01:01:00.000-07:00

As earlier reported, I took my place at the Oceanico Group Pro Am event at Worsley Park last week. What a fantastic time I had. The weather wasn't great, but I was pleasantly surprised with the course, a couple of cracking holes, including the 7th, 12th and 13th my favourites.

What was great was that I played with a good Pro (Denny Lucas) and also Steve Davis (World Snooker God). I've got to say the banter was excellent and we finished the 10 holes in 11 under par to tie for first place, Steve was great company and a total legend!!!!

The Marriott Hotel at Worsley Park was very good, nice hotel and certainly one of the better properties in the North West

Woburn, lovely Woburn

2007-05-17T07:16:00.000-07:00

My last golfing stop took me amongst the pines in leafy Bedfordshire to the glorious Woburn Golf Club.

Woburn boasts three brilliant golf courses, all of which have held large events. It was my pleasure to play the Dukes course (home to the Seniors European Tour Event).

The course is wonderful as it weaves its way amongst the dominating Pine Trees. All three golf courses give you a great feeling of isolation as you battle the tight fairways and lightning greens. The Dukes (despite a dousing of rain) was in great nick.

We came to the third hole and one of my all time favourite par 3's - just 128 yards with a 100 foot drop to the green - judging clubs is tough. A half punched 9 Iron saw my ball pitch pin high about 8 feet away, but the vicious green left me 30 feet. Woburn is a lot like that with great greens and hollows to swallow up the ball.

The other two courses at Woburn The Duchess and Marquess are superb, but I'll give you the low down later in the year........

Playing in a Pro Am!

2007-05-14T04:05:00.000-07:00

The wonderful people at Vilamoura Golf, have kindly extended an invitation to play in there pro am team at the Marriott Worsley Park event in May. The event is part of the Challenge Tour, one level down from the European Tour, but should still be slightly nerve wracking!!

Worsley is supposed to be a good track, but I'll update you on what I think after my virginity is broken.

Hanbury Manor

2007-05-06T04:20:00.000-07:00

I receive numerous invites to play different courses, most which I kindly decline (so that I actually do some work for most of the week. However when an invite for a corporate golf day at Hanbury Manor dropped on my desk, I immediately accepted.

I've played Hanbury three times now. I absolutely love the course. It is always really well kept and can pride itself on very good greens.

The front and the back nine are very different.

The first is a driveable par 4 with a huge hollow protecting a raised and undulating green which is a real 3 putter. The second is a short and tempting Par5 but a shallow green is protected by a lake so gives a real risk reward.

the Par 4 8th is stroke index 1. A long sweeping par 4 with a pond protecting a tilted green.

The back nine is good, two short but tricky par 3's and with par 4's using the water cleverly it has some great features.

My favourite is another shortish Par 5 narrowing to an approach shot over water to a 2 tiered green. I won longest drive there on the day (over 300 yards - very good for me!!!!).

Hanbury's hotel by Marriott is a good 5 star and the whole complex is a very good and different offering to the Grove.

Carton House Ireland

2007-04-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

My trip to Carton House was just a stunning experience from beginning to end. Situated near Maynouth, close to Dublin, this golf resort boasts two golf courses. The highly acclaimed (and former home to the Irish Open), the Montgomerie is a terrific challenge. It has a linksy feel with a huge emphasis on Bunkering. The first sets you off across the River Rye and the Eighteenth returns you to the Hotel alongside the river.

In between are some great holes, with the 4th, 5th 12 and 14th all springing to mind. The main strength of the course is the greens. They are immaculate - and the best I have putted on.

The Eighteenth Green on the Montgomerie.

The O'Meara course is the less written about, but I thought the course was brilliant, especially the back nine. It really uses the River Rye well (unlike its sister course the Monty) and the finishing stretch (15 16 and 17 are just brilliant. The greens were in good shape, despite being less attended to than the Monty.

All in all a must for your Irish Golf Break

US Masters Result!!

2007-04-15T02:27:00.000-07:00

As you will see from my previous post, I fancied Zach Johnson for the Masters and had a small bet on the young American and found my self £200 better off!!! Thanks Mr Johnson, what a result. It was a terrific final day, with the world's best golfers rising to the topof the leaderboard. My only comment was that the course played too tough.

We have enough events (US Open and US PGA) where they make par the target finishing score. The Masters has nver been about that..... 13 seemed to be taken out of Eagle range which meant less gambling (although Tiger and Padraig obliged on the final day!!).

On my recent golfing travels I played 2 UK courses.

Wychwood Park, not a bad track but a couple of internal out of bounds which were peculiar. But an interesting course none the less, very good finishing Par 5 up the hill protected by a pond on the right. Well worth a knock. The Hotel is basic......enough said!!

I also played Merrist Wood in Surrey , a really good layout, but they were doing a lot of work on the course and to be frank the greens were a disgrace....... It has a good Amen Corner 9 - 13 with some lovely holes. Beware the Gyppo Camp along the 12th apparently they are known to hop on from time to time!!!

Tiger in ominous form.....

2007-03-26T05:30:00.000-07:00

Decided to have small punt on the WGC CA Chmpionship (the second World Golf Championship event of the year).

Played on the Blue Monster at Doral, the 72 hole strokeplay event consisted of all the top players in the world.

I have an affinity for Padraig Harrington of Ireland, he is a very steady performer who can shoot very low on his day and is a good scrambler. He was 40-1 and I took him each way.

My second horse was Nick O'Hern again each way but at 100-1 he was good odds......

Cant believe he came in 6th - just missed out by one shot...........

Bloody typical!!!!!!!

I've kept money on Harrington for the Masters, not sure who else to go for..... Tiger is way too short to be worth betting on - but I will be interestes in the odds for Zach Johnson, the improving young american and also may be Paul Casey (Who has gone well there before).

Any advice or tips gladly received.........

Five Lakes, Near Maldon in Essex

2007-03-26T05:17:00.000-07:00

Five Lakes is a 4 star hotel in Essex, which has two golf courses (the Lakes and the Links).

I've been there 3 times now and have to say its one of my favourite UK golf destinations. Ok, so the second course isn't up to much and the courses are prone to waterlogging, but the Hotel is excellent, a very good 4 star, with good level of service and also good food.

The Lakes course is a great little course, not the longest, it has some memorable holes and like most resort courses the 9th and 18th are the signature holes.

Despite it being a bit of a drive, I would recommend Five Lakes it to all South East England Golf Trippers!!

Lisbon golf holidays

2007-03-20T06:34:00.000-07:00

I have returned last month from a familirisation visit for Lisbon Golf Holidays

I was really impressed with all the courses. Firstly though, I had the pleasure in staying at the fabulous Sesimbra Hotel and Spa. A great 4 star hotel, situated on the beach with stunning views of the Atlantic and beach front at Sesimbra. Its about 45-55 minutes from Lisbon Airport. The drive isn't the best and the hotel is a bit tricky to find in the one way system, but its worth. Good food in the restaurant as well.... highly recommended.....

I played golf at Aroeira I and Aroeira II. Aroeira Golf Breaks are available and are a really good choice. The accommodation is self catering style apartments (although you can include a decent enough breakfast at the clubhouse each day for a small fee). The apartments are basic, but perfectly good enough for small families and groups of golfers.

The only issue is the lack of nightlife and you definitely need a car for the trip. Nearby is Caprica de Charneca - a traditional portugese village/town with a couple of very good and well priced restaurants.

Lisbon is about €40 by cab (so between 4 its pretty accessible). Good nightlife in Lisbon..... Say no more.

The courses at Aroeira are excellent. My preference is Aroeira II with great use of the trees and water.

The 18th is a great finishing hole:

Par 5 with Water running down the right and then around the green on the left - too much greed off the tee can put you in the drink, but its a really good risk reward hole.

Aroeira I is a lovely track as well, but perhaps slightly less featured than II, having said that, stroke index 2 11th is superb

Long Par 4 with a green protected by bunkers and a lake alongside it. Dont be long (as I found out to my cost - impossible up and down).

Further inland from Aroeira is the delightful Quinta Do Peru a cracking little track with a good club house. The 15th and 16th are great signature holes.

About an hours drive from Aroeira is Troia, what a course. A links style track with tiny greens and big bunkers, brilliant golf course - very tough. Its pretty unique as you have to take a ferry from Setubal to the peninsula. I was lucky enough to be making the journey when the local family of dolphins were pklaying in the water alongside the boats - to be honest I should have stoppped there and had a swim because my golf was unbelieveably bad!!

Troia golf course - watch out for the dolphins!!

I was really impressed with Southern Lisbon for your golf holiday, great venues and superb golf courses. The important thing for me though, was that it is still Portugal - traditional bars and good seafood. With Flights becoming more accessible to Lisbon I highly receommend your next golfing trip there!

2007-03-17T07:26:00.000-07:00

As its St Patrick's Day (And I'm Irish) I though I'd post some of my favourite golf courses in Ireland.

Carton House

2 Great golf courses (The O'Meara and the Montgomerie). Host of the Nissan Irish Open for 2 years and has a superb hotel. Golf breaks to carton house are far more affordable than the K Club

The Montgomerie course has the famous boat house

Lahinch

What a track!!! - you have to play the old Tom Morris Course, also the castle course is a pretty good track as well.

Below Cork you'll find one of the most stunning courses ever......

Old Head of kinsale

Doesn't look real does it!!!!!!! - not sure that a ball retriever would work there....

Also if you get a chance to play Hermitage in Dublin - do it - brilliant course and My Uncle's the Captain there!!!

PauL Casey

2006-12-20T09:52:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to be present at the Ryder CUp at the K Club this year and had a fantastic time with some pretty awe inspiring perfomances.

One guy who stood out for me was Paul Casey. The Englishman has just been voted European Tour player of the year and also won shot of the year. He was pipped to the Order of Merit title by Padraig Harrington. My main memory of the Ryder Cup (apart from the hospitality of people from the K Club Carton House et al) was of the last days singles. Casey had just won his match on the 17th and a buggy drew up to carry him back to watch the other matches. He went behind the buggy after noticing a small boy in a wheelchair behind the green. Casey spent 5 minutes chatting and then signed everything he wanted before going back to his team mates. It was a great touch from a genuine sportsman and I am personally delighted he took the award.

Nearly Christmas, and thinking of potential trips to Ireland and Lisbon over the next couple of months.

Its my Birthday today so I'll raise a glass of vino to you all.

Introduction

2006-12-15T14:35:00.001-08:00

Well, as a fairly well travelled golfer, who plays (pretty badly) off 14 - I thought it would be a good idea to post my (and my friends) recommendations about golf travel plus any anecotes about golf that we may run across......

My first post takes me back a couple of weeks and a short hop on Easyjet to Faro and then down to the Dom Pedro Golf Hotel in Vilamoura. We stayed at the 4 star (not bad not great) hotel and the shuttle buses collected us each morning, as we played the Victoria Course, Vila Sol (1-9, 19-27) and finally the under rated Pinhal.

I played really well around the Victoria, which is pretty expensive. The front nine is a bit forgettable (although brilliantly kept), but the back 9 is fantastic, 11 and 12 are great holes - the 12th is a cracking par 5 with water all along the left and positional play essential. 14 is another thinking mans hole and the finish is superb - 17 a testing but Birdieable (is that a word?) par 5 and 18 an tough Par4.

Vila Sol I was disappointed with - the front 9 was good, but the 19-27 loop was not very well kept and did notlating impression one me.

Pinhal is a terrific course. Some tight holes, great greens and fabulous backdrop overlooking Vilaoura and the surrounding Villas and apartments. Great club house and brilliant staff!!!!

Took the money 2 out of 3 days, so pretty happy with the trip.

If you are using the shuttle buses - call early - otherwise you may find it tight for tee times.

Going for a beer in Vilamoura? Avoid the Casino (its a rip off) head for one of the Irish bars or Italian restaurants on the front.

Introduction

2006-12-15T14:35:00.000-08:00