What an eventful few days in the world of golf. Soon after the announcement that Sky have doubled the £7m a year broadcasting rights for the Open from 2017, Tiger Woods has decided to take a break from competitive golf as he feels "my game is not acceptable". It is too early to tell what the impact of these events will have for our game. Whatever your feelings are towards Tiger I am sure many will agree it was sad to see him struggling over the past 2 tournaments, and indeed there were shades of déjà vu as it reminded me of the great Seve struggling in the twilight of his career.
Personally I sincerely hope Tiger can find some form again. Not just out of total respect I have for the player he has been over the years, but also for the huge "profile" he has for the game.
As for the broadcasting of the Open, I appreciate that the Championship will not reach as large an audience but I am curious to hear how the R & A intend to use the EXTRA £7 million per year from 2017. How much will reach initiatives to introduce more people to the game we all love (well most of the time!!)
Congratulations to Simon Evans who achieved a Hole-in-One on the 2nd last week. This was Simon's first "Ace" and was achieved using his 8 iron.
Both our Greenstaff and Course Helpers have continued their tremendous work over the last few days and despite it being the middle of February, the course is looking great and in particular the clearing of trees has made the presentation so much nicer (not to mention easier to find your ball in some areas!)
We often talk about the superb location of our course and the wonderful wildlife we can enjoy spotting whilst playing. Whilst playing our Capt/Pro match on Thursday I spotted two species rarely seen in the winter months - a "Metty" and a "Noddy". Joking apart it was nice to see you out guys - Spring must be near!!
Congratulations to Tony Knowles (above right) this week. Tony managed the fantastic achievement of shooting his age when he scored 73!
200 Club
Do you support our 200 club? Not only is this a great scheme raising funds to help develop our facilities such as the driving range, there is also a good chance you could win some money. Yours truly was lucky enough to win £75 this month, so if you are like me and rarely win a bean, give this a go. Only £4 a month and to sign up see Mike or Sharon in the office.
There must have been something "extra" in our coffee machine on Saturday as the scoring for the Winter Stableford No.2 was incredible! If you didn't get 40+ points you didn't feature in the prizes. Unfortunately after storming to victory in the 4 Club Competition recently Howard Fisher decided to put a few extra clubs in his bag and produced a superb 47 points. Very well done Howard!
Well done also to Max Burton shooting a 65 gross to win Div 1.
Poor John Hunter shot a 67 for the second time here at York, and just like the previous time he didn't win - this time coming 3rd in Div 1 with the 45 points this produced. Tough school!!!!
The Ladies also had a great entry for their comp on Tuesday. Many congratulations to the winning team of Rosemary O'Conner, Judith Twist, Heather Gott & Carol Ormiston who edged home with a back 6 countback after scoring 87 points.
Remember that if you've not had a lesson or fitting or lesson you have been reading about someone who has!!
Latest arrivals this week has included the eagerly anticipated Motocaddy "Dry" bag. Their waterproof cart bag is not only incredibly stylish but also packed with features. As the leading Motocaddy stockist in the area we are delighted to be amongst the first in the country to have this in stock.
Our latest line in the anniversary range are these fantastic putter covers decorated with 5 x embroidered badges. Only £19.99!
Our offer on the MacGregor stand bags is also proving popular with only 3 left! Only £49.99 for these super-light carry bags. Not only will they save you £££££'s, they will also save you walking so far when playing!
As the daylight increases, so does availability for lessons and fittings - just as well given how keen you all are! Our pledge to make this your best golf year ever has certainly hit home and got many of you on-board.
Click here to arrange a fitting or lesson.
Last Friday we played Bryan Hunter and Lindsay MacKinlay in what can only be described as "interesting" conditions. After a prolonged period of heavy frosts the ground was like concrete, and I must admit it was fun trying to figure out the best way to get close to the hole as you don't see them on Sky showing you how to play in frozen conditions!
We had a great up and down game. Things were looking good being 2 up with 4 to play, but we still needed an 8 foot putt holed on the last from Mike to finish all square!
Yesterday it was the turn of Dave Spofforth and Neil Ferguson to challenge us and they certainly did just that! They dove tailed better than any joiners could and unfortunately for us were too hot. When Dave stroked home yet another team birdie on the 14th it was time for early handshakes!
Thank you to both pairs for most enjoyable games.
This year sees us continue our successful Academy Membership and strive to introduce more Ladies to partake in this wonderful game. Throughout March we have some "Get into Golf" sessions which are aimed at beginner/intermediate ladies of all ages. These sessions are FREE to attend and all equipment will be provided.
Do you have any friends & family or a wife/partner who would like to have a go?
Please click here for full details, or click here to get in touch if you or someone you know might be interested.
Many congratulations to Saffron Thompson (above right) who has been selected to train with the Yorkshire under 14's "A" squad. Quite an achievement given that Saffron is only 10 years old! Well done Saffron from all of here at YGC.
