tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82296876332939683772024-03-13T08:38:14.716+00:00Rather be Golfing?Me too! But if you're off the course for any reason (deep snow, broken leg, or even the damned day job) pitch up here and get those feelings of grief and frustration off your chest. All comments welcome.Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.comBlogger170125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-2779438217627769992012-02-01T17:11:00.002+00:002012-02-01T17:13:13.435+00:00Cold hands, deep pocketsToday I needed all of Jonty’s cold weather tips and then
some. The weather was irresistible – blue skies and firm (look no mud!) ground,
but the wind had the edge of a knife. Trust me I was wearing every thermal
layer you could imagine, topped off by a full set of water/windproofs. <br />
<br />
But I know from past experience that the biggest problem is
keeping my hands warm. Those conventional ‘windstopper’ gloves are no use for
me. They seem to restrict the circulation and make my hands even colder. I
prefer <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/p-1310-ping-golf-mittens.aspx" target="_blank">mitts,</a> which as Jonty says can be easily whipped off and on. But I carry
only a single-pocket practice bag in winter and don’t want the faff of holding
onto two big mitts in between times. Since I find the one I wear over the golf
glove (left hand) less effective, I stick to one for my right hand (which
dangles over my bag) hoping my left hand will be snug in my pocket between shots.
But today, with the mercury hovering on zero and That Wind, I needed help, and
with Husband-of–the-Goddess (or HoG as I think of him) laid up with a Lemsip, I decided to try out his new <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00427K980/ref=asc_df_B00427K9806376221/?tag=googlecouk06-21&creative=22134&creativeASIN=B00427K980&linkCode=asn" target="_blank">HotRox handwarmer.</a> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_MuEh0zBA4BZW1TjFN46puDIiphTugAlfh0wUKohJWRDG8K4Xv3yzL0RWif2EDtLZDFM-SmQVnz9CeMFyEV4O065XcdkXnBVvIUPhDzgy2ZYjTPb5DqzGMuKY0w1GqtJej0M0QGo1ZA1x/s1600/hotrox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_MuEh0zBA4BZW1TjFN46puDIiphTugAlfh0wUKohJWRDG8K4Xv3yzL0RWif2EDtLZDFM-SmQVnz9CeMFyEV4O065XcdkXnBVvIUPhDzgy2ZYjTPb5DqzGMuKY0w1GqtJej0M0QGo1ZA1x/s200/hotrox.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
This is a pebble-shaped gadget which is charged up in advance and simply switched on at
the start of the round. I used my trusty mitt on my right hand and kept the Hotrox
in my left pocket, and I have to say that even wearing a driving glove and with
the warmer in its cover (as recommended) it provided a good level of heat and a
lot of psychological comfort. Previously HoG used a warmer that relied on
lighter fuel, but that would be too fiddly (or scary?) scary for me, and if Hotrox is on
the pricey side (£25 upwards) it is reusable, fuss free and doesn’t ‘go off’
by mistake as some of those chemical packets do.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Sadly the heated pocket didn’t seem to help my golf and I failed
to follow up my rather pleasing 38 points on Saturday with anything worth
talking about, but I would say the Hotrox was a success, and next time it’s
blowing in from <st1:place w:st="on">Siberia</st1:place>, I could well be
raiding a certain person’s golf bag. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwSEKsxyYET3c9pXMFJd_KNaaxArnqdqVwfJhUC-tHlWKUnO6jU1FVyGyq3WJq7_sWptjGQu2aQ50-MXvW7q6K8M8FqSXdPkNA_J01r5jnP1UH8wiy1rX_19lutk0wfRiU_u1aYekXgO-v/s1600/IMG_2114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwSEKsxyYET3c9pXMFJd_KNaaxArnqdqVwfJhUC-tHlWKUnO6jU1FVyGyq3WJq7_sWptjGQu2aQ50-MXvW7q6K8M8FqSXdPkNA_J01r5jnP1UH8wiy1rX_19lutk0wfRiU_u1aYekXgO-v/s320/IMG_2114.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weather too cool for cats</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On the other hand, on a day when the highlight of the round was breaking the ice in a bunker, some might say I would have done better to stay at home. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>Green Goddesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03720505366458231162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-5086788501522243422012-01-29T15:15:00.002+00:002012-01-29T15:15:52.389+00:00Choosing a club to join (4) - decision timeAll this <a href="http://www.rather-be-golfing.blogspot.com/2012/01/choosing-club-to-join-are-we-there-yet.html">looking at clubs</a> had proved quite time consuming, and by September that year, with my current membership about to run out, I had left myself seriously short of time. There was nothing for it but to pitch up at Club C. I already knew the clubhouse was being rebuilt and the bar in temporary accommodation. Was I going to fork out the annual sub (highest so far) for coffee in a Portakabin? <br />
Knowing the course quite well, I didn't ask to go out, but the Director of Golf (ie senior pro) took me round in a buggy to remind me of the rather gorgeous views from the top of the newer of two courses. <br />
Yes, two full eighteens. I reminded myself I need never worry about getting a tee-time even at weekends, and on a week day I'd probably have a choice between sheltered tree-lined fairways or the more rugged scenic option. <br />
My resolve to do my homework properly was dissolving, but when I mutttered an enquiry about the ladies section I was immediately given the phone number of the captain. I rang with a feeling of resignation but her reaction was so positive 'We'd love to have you - I do hope you'll join!' I was sold straight away. When I turned up at my first ladies morning the rest were as friendly as the captain, and from day one I was included in every golf and social occasion. Since roll-up sessions are managed so that all names go in a draw (regardless of handicap or 'friendship groups') I soon knew all the regular golfers and had joined in weekend comps both ladies and mixed. <br />
I realise that to a great extent I was lucky. My research was hardly scientific and I might easily have joined Clubs A or B which if rumours are anything to go by are less inclusive in their arrangements. But with hindsight, what would I say to any other single ladies (or I suppose men) looking for a new home?<br />
<ul>
<li>if you're after social golf, try to find out who you'll be socialising with</li>
<li>check out the arrangements for 'roll-up' days. Are groupings decided in advance or on the day?</li>
<li>how many diary clashes were htere the previous year between ladies' and men's events adn what was the outcome? </li>
</ul>
And a final note to club managers or membership secretaries. If you want us to make up our minds, give us a fair chance to meet and play with fellow members. A welcoming atmosphere isn't something you can take on trust, you have to suck it and see.<br />
<br />
As for the Portakabin, I'm afraid it's still there. But the coffee is fresh and the company is good. Who could ask for more? <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nc93BmcxsuVKA-NoXWtIPcQuKtb1-80B-VVe6NBoFlUsG6QrVyweJXcxXG4zagXbFgDg5bikzoMNwFgpWAtLCchfxOZqgbVJOFVwNFhLLNHEA7pQyxvB2bhE6WgJ82VY0pI8p3MFKmpq/s1600/apresgolf.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nc93BmcxsuVKA-NoXWtIPcQuKtb1-80B-VVe6NBoFlUsG6QrVyweJXcxXG4zagXbFgDg5bikzoMNwFgpWAtLCchfxOZqgbVJOFVwNFhLLNHEA7pQyxvB2bhE6WgJ82VY0pI8p3MFKmpq/s320/apresgolf.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't forget to check out the apres golf</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />Green Goddesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03720505366458231162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-6663335447426478342012-01-25T09:01:00.000+00:002012-01-25T09:01:58.624+00:00Foursomes match and putting woesFoursomes – the very word can strike a chill. It sounds like
fun, it can be fun, but striking every other ball makes it so much harder to
settle into your game. And as for putting, you can go a large part of the round
without having to make one ( hole conceded when they hit out of bounds or you
take three from a bunker) then find yourself facing a testing ten-footer with
no feel for your stroke or the state of the greens. Let’s just say that in our
Winter Foursomes semi-final a warm-up on the range helped, but I wished I’d
spent that time and a bit more besides on the practice green. <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Afterwards I found this <a href="http://www.golfinred.com/putting-drills-short-putts/" target="_blank">really useful post</a> on short putts.
It contains a useful drill, but what hit home was the statement (backed up by
tour stats) <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">the player that putts the best inside 8-10 feet
during the tournament usually wins.</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> Ergo (like that touch of logic?) getting on
the green inside that range is crucial. Equally so is sinking the short
putt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Translating this for a high
handicapper who is realistically happy to be on the green in regulation rather
than near the hole, I’d say that you don’t expect to hole a long first putt
(although sometimes you will) but it has to be in the ‘golden circle’ – or even
closer<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>- to make sure of holing the
second. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I think it
was Nick Faldo who first recommended putting into the radius of a dustbin lid
rather than aiming at the hole. It’s a theory that has been derided (FFS just aim
for the hole!) but it does make some sense. Yes, of course you aim for the
hole, but don’t expect it to go in. Anywhere close (I’d prefer a dainty dustbin
myself ) will do. If every now and then it does go in (and it will) that’s a
bonus, the icing on the cake.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In the end,
despite my putting ineptitude, we won that match, but maybe it would have been
better (for my golfing soul) if we had lost. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Then instead
of sitting here theorizing, I might be out on the green getting in some
practice. </span></div>Green Goddesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03720505366458231162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-18712296361476680422012-01-22T11:50:00.000+00:002012-01-22T11:50:35.033+00:00Choosing a club to join: are we there yet?So, on to the next step of my find-a-golf-club project (previous episodes <a href="http://www.rather-be-golfing.blogspot.com/2012/01/choosing-golf-club-to-join-1.html">here</a> and <a href="http://www.rather-be-golfing.blogspot.com/2012/01/choosing-club-to-join-2.html">here</a>.)<br />
<br />When I arrived at Club B, all the omens were good. Having rung up
about membership I’d been treated politely and invited to play a few holes with
a committee member. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That sounded fine to
me. As icing on the cake, the weather was absolutely glorious and the course,
newly trimmed, raked and rolled, looked as good as a golf course can on a sunny
day.<br />
<br />Okay, I was slightly disconcerted when the committee member
turned out to be the club membership secretary – yes, a man. Hmm, mixed golf is
fine, just not what I was expecting. But nothing ventured, so off we went down the
first. <br />
<br />I have to say because of some slight apprehension, my
golf was <strike>rubbish</strike> less than splendid, but we put in a friendly enough nine holes,
capped by my partner bringing off a pretty astonishing chip in. (I bet he remembers
it too!) <br />
<br />So, the course was good, the native friendly. I don’t think
I disgraced myself too badly. As I recall bought me a cup of coffee before
hurrying off on club business. Membership, I sensed, was on offer. <br />
<br /><em>But where were the ladies?</em> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: left;">
I’m pretty sure if I’d gone round with a lady that day and we
had had some fun, my money would have been on the table. A follow-up phone call from
the lady captain might even have done the trick. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: left;">
So what? I don't suppose they've missed me, and since then I've heard a few things to suggest the ladies section might not have been for me. But the fact remains, if they were looking to
recruit a lady player that day, they got the sales pitch wrong. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCeTxuc8sSV-mPkFk5ktiqI4kl4St9lJbWyFB_2nTpj9TFRIMzutmqPAJejYeTNbadTKyQX8ZEKfE4C-HL0j4BZzlugLybpxURYLx4NGBUwBXAWj46HruHZ1RIG8oP7j6n9p-0c1W-R20/s1600/Al-Bowood" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCeTxuc8sSV-mPkFk5ktiqI4kl4St9lJbWyFB_2nTpj9TFRIMzutmqPAJejYeTNbadTKyQX8ZEKfE4C-HL0j4BZzlugLybpxURYLx4NGBUwBXAWj46HruHZ1RIG8oP7j6n9p-0c1W-R20/s320/Al-Bowood" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well-behaved lady golfer needs good home. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
<br />
To find out if I ever did find a club, check in for the next instalment. It could be the last!</div>Green Goddesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03720505366458231162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-50127122063196828612012-01-18T10:00:00.000+00:002012-01-19T09:36:28.952+00:00Choosing a club to join (2)So there I was, off to find a golf club to join. Even then, before
the recession had started to bite, I knew most clubs were desperate for
members, surely I’d be welcomed with open arms? <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjG08lZvH_6F2NgXzmOYwOvni64pqh9jhYEhoBOChdS-NglOOY2gkwnnZg8h-IwZKBrPk4kf7zkn1i4QOCGjOhFG1cUfrbkEP3ryCgFFss972jat6MX_kI4-wo8YimKJpzQTcfo154CKU/s1600/IMG_1127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjG08lZvH_6F2NgXzmOYwOvni64pqh9jhYEhoBOChdS-NglOOY2gkwnnZg8h-IwZKBrPk4kf7zkn1i4QOCGjOhFG1cUfrbkEP3ryCgFFss972jat6MX_kI4-wo8YimKJpzQTcfo154CKU/s320/IMG_1127.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Location, location, location</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Club A was already ahead in my mind. It was reasonably close
to home and had a lovely location with gorgeous views. Generally well managed,
with a programme of planned maintenance and improvement the greens were more
than fast enough for me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a visitor I’d
always had a friendly reception: next step was to suss out the members. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Enquiring in the pro shop, I expected to be invited to the
regular ladies day and was disappointed when it was suggested I come along for
tea after the event, which turned out to be an awkward affair. Don’t get me
wrong, the ladies were friendly and seemed eager for me to join, but it was
hard for me – and possibly them - <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to
relax. Who was sizing up whom? Whatever my official handicap, how could they judge how we might get on
together on the course - and how could I? When I was shown the locker room alarm bells started to
ring. I have nothing against chintz <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">per
se</i>, but the signing up sheets for ladies mornings went up six weeks ahead <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>– six weeks of planning for a friendly roll
up? I left without making a decision, disappointed
that what had seemed like a no-brainer suddenly didn’t feel quite right. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
And so it was on to Course B. Although lacking the rural
panoramas, I knew the course was beautifully kept and the clubhouse newly revamped.
I’d also been lucky enough to sample the excellent catering. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
What could possibly go wrong?</div>Green Goddesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03720505366458231162noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-64553252802007423902012-01-15T11:46:00.000+00:002012-01-15T11:48:02.762+00:00Pre-shot routine? I close my eyes.This week I’ve been getting out and about – on the course?
Well yes, despite the weather, but also on <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/jontyandfriends" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (where I am now following amongst others my
golfing heroine <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/Beany25" target="_blank">Catriona Matthew</a>) and looking around the golf blogs. One post
that has caught my eye is by Andy Roberts writing on <a href="http://www.golfmagic.com/guest-blog/gain-consistency-with-a-pre-shot-routine/10708.html" target="_blank">Golf Magic</a> about the importance of pre-shot
routine– that series of actions we do before each shot that gets us in the
mindset to hit (we hope) an absolute cracker. I was particularly taken with the photo of <a href="http://www.pgatour.com/golfers/022371/aaron-baddeley/" target="_blank">Aaron Baddely</a> <em>with his eyes closed</em>. <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
This cheered me up a lot, because after I’d been playing
golf for a couple of years, my regular partners asked me why I closed my eyes
on my back-swing, and didn’t it make hitting the ball that much more difficult? Now until this was pointed out to me, I hadn’t really being
aware I was doing it, and so I can’t honestly call it a pre-shot routine but
more of an unconscious habit. (And I’m guessing Mr. Baddely does it before
addressing the ball rather than afterwards!) But if it doesn’t help me hit the
ball better I don’t think it does any harm. For a while I
did make an effort to keep my eyes open, but I find it’s something I fall back
into and haven’t noticed any ill effects in terms of ball-striking. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
So why do I do it?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf04mxugAqVaaDYONnWHmXdZ1tW9QGRzoXqRa19TNQV6gz9npvkx6mo0QQCuUbY5BHHHy5uGAT-uZd18LDUZXG3DBhACnyTR5DJxtl0U-5vweE4I-qQ2FcTWhklQws0ZuX1BYutLp1GQRF/s1600/alchip_8771.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf04mxugAqVaaDYONnWHmXdZ1tW9QGRzoXqRa19TNQV6gz9npvkx6mo0QQCuUbY5BHHHy5uGAT-uZd18LDUZXG3DBhACnyTR5DJxtl0U-5vweE4I-qQ2FcTWhklQws0ZuX1BYutLp1GQRF/s320/alchip_8771.jpg" width="220" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eyes wide open for a chip</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Well there’s an element of concentration. It’s not so long
since I was a beginner and prey to many swing-thoughts. If you’re set a hard
exam question what do you do? You close your eyes to think about it. So that’s
maybe where it came from. But reading Andy’s article made me think that maybe
if anything it’s the opposite. Addressing the ball I usually still have a
swing-thought of some kind – maybe the aspect I was working on in
the last lesson, and I think that in closing my eyes I might actually blot out
what’s going on in my head and let the body take over. Which must be a good
thing. <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Yesterday for instance in cold conditions and with an
incipient back-ache I wasn’t swinging too well and was trying on each shot to improve my body movement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>None
of which worked particularly well. But as it got towards the end of the round I
made a conscious effort to relax and not think about it. I caught myself
closing my eyes on the back swing – and hitting some much better tee-shots. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
But going back to that old pre-shot routine, I think mine
does need some attention. Long shots are fine, but I have particular problems
with bunker shots and putting where the set -up is quite different. Maybe I
need a set routine for those occasions. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Or I could try just closing my eyes!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>Green Goddesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03720505366458231162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-75368381843108809632012-01-11T16:56:00.003+00:002012-01-11T16:56:47.377+00:00Choosing a golf club to join (1)What do you look for in a golf club? A lot will depend on
your level of play and your experience. But for those who have gripes about
their current club, or for ‘nomads’ thinking the need a golfing home, the
winter months are a good time to research the possibilities. Two years ago, with
five or six years golfing experience behind me and a handicap that was approaching
something respectable, I was in this position and thought it would be easy. All
I needed <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>was <br />
<br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">a well-kept
course in pleasant surroundings</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>decent clubhouse facilities</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">and subs
that wouldn’t break the bank </li>
</ul>
Simples?<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV8ySb2x8h5Sm180Z7Cj9ZmnNqdx_Zk1D2Axg4bIR3sX-m1gdB84jbrlsbNiGIf5Be5RD2EKDS7vXMvlyY7YiibOV_gGbhdytbKedfqSKuz7S2Z0-8yVIUVIa2tLVoWrMZIzweezfDA0VN/s1600/jan09+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV8ySb2x8h5Sm180Z7Cj9ZmnNqdx_Zk1D2Axg4bIR3sX-m1gdB84jbrlsbNiGIf5Be5RD2EKDS7vXMvlyY7YiibOV_gGbhdytbKedfqSKuz7S2Z0-8yVIUVIa2tLVoWrMZIzweezfDA0VN/s320/jan09+001.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Too bleak in winter?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Being on my own, I was also looking for somewhere with a
welcoming atmosphere where I would soon feel at home and be playing lots of
golf. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But if courses and prices were
easy to investigate, how could I find a club where I knew I would fit in,
especially as I’m one of that great golfing minority – <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>women!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
At least living near a major conurbation, I am lucky to have
a good half-dozen courses within easy reach, all with ladies sections, but of
these half were quickly dismissed (too expensive, too busy, too bleak in winter
months) which left me with three. </div>
<br /><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Of these, the first two (let’s call them A and B) were
well-respected member clubs with nice courses and reasonable subs. The third (C)
was privately owned, more expensive, and due to ongoing refurbishment, had its clubhouse
in “temporary accommodation”, but it did boast 36 rather nice holes, some with
spectacular views, and so I kept it on my list, albeit on the back burner.<br />
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVeAQk9Jih4GbdkhU0Yz_P_wZDCfExQ-VMujO6wpVp7o0cMpb1JeopA8217rx-n2zd5_SMEidU2pgRCqpDWWM8Hn1S6sDHnHh3hcaPdrOD7vUVcrvbePu2Tr10jzwvE36fXLH3-HKiAEIU/s1600/thepark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVeAQk9Jih4GbdkhU0Yz_P_wZDCfExQ-VMujO6wpVp7o0cMpb1JeopA8217rx-n2zd5_SMEidU2pgRCqpDWWM8Hn1S6sDHnHh3hcaPdrOD7vUVcrvbePu2Tr10jzwvE36fXLH3-HKiAEIU/s320/thepark.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the back burner</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Which came out on top? That would be telling. Check back
soon for the rest of my golfing odyssey! </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>Green Goddesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03720505366458231162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-77919187205822705832012-01-06T12:05:00.000+00:002012-01-06T12:16:48.947+00:00Weekend Tip: 10 Tips on How to Play Better Golf in the ColdIt’s a beautiful day outside, the sun is shining and it’s 5 degrees. Still nice enough to play golf and have a good time, but I am thinking to myself how can I prepare better for my game, especially as it gets colder through January. So after a bit of research gleaned from other sources, here are a few tips which I hope will help you maximise your potential out on the course this weekend. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/michaelbohnert/2713028838/sizes/l/in/photostream/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSUUIpcpPJFSMPHx5daQoume16vf6vdHJqLwM3X2UuWXcKrn3v6B5m1BQOAcHtFJpO3BdYTiNUOe2gQdlyYmzvc2cPncr-TpoUBlGdjknqTzIWe1fiQNy3kJMaQrf8fyCfbqvdxoRSVnDr/s640/winter+golf.jpg" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/michaelbohnert/2713028838/sizes/l/in/photostream/">Photo Thanks to Michael Bonhert</a></span> <br />
<br />
<b>1. Get some thermal underwear.</b> Trust me, good thermals will keep you toasty in a variety of cold conditions. <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/c-857-galvin-green-base-layers.aspx">Galvin Green</a> offer a great range. They fit skin tight and allow you to dress in layers over them.<br />
<br />
<b>2. Warm your feet up too.</b> Wear an extra pair of socks, I find thin socks to be better to keep the bulk down.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Buy some dry-chemical hand warmers.</b> Put them in your golf bag then before your round, open and shake them, then put one in each pocket. Keep your hands in your pockets between shots when you are playing and open a new pair somewhere in the middles so they don't get numb on the last few holes.<br />
<br />
<b>4. Do some stretching while you're still at home</b>. Take a hot shower or ride an exercise bike first to get warm and flexible. Stretching on a cold practice range or at the first tee won't cut it when it's really chilly.<br />
<br />
<b>5. Wear a ski cap or good thick hat.</b> Most of your body heat disappears through your head. Keeping your head warm will help you stay warm.<br />
<br />
<b>6. Invest in a pair of cart gloves.</b> I prefer cart gloves to winter golf gloves, because you can continue to wear your normal gloves and just wip them off to hit your shots. <br />
<br />
<b>7. Keep walking instead of riding round the course.</b> This will help keep the blood flowing so you stay warm. If you have to ride, perhaps bring an extra coat--even an overcoat--and put it over you when you're in the cart.<br />
<br />
<b>8. Alternate golf balls on each hole. </b>Keep the ball you're not playing in your pocket against your hand warmer so it stays warm. It's even worth keeping the balls you are going to play with inside the house overnight so they don't get cold sitting in your car or garage.<br />
<br />
<b>9. Remember to take more club.</b> The colder air temperatures will reduce the length of your shots by at least 10 percent. It's better to be a little long than a little short for most approaches.<br />
<br />
<b>10. Finally, save the booze until after your round.</b> Drinking a shot or two of brandy might make you feel warmer but that's only an illusion. It might cause you to think you're playing better, too. Well maybe that might not be too bad!Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-82473484783384069722012-01-03T12:39:00.000+00:002012-01-03T12:39:07.715+00:00Winter golf: the rangeJanuary – don’t you just love it? Last year it was snow,
this year torrential rain and gale force winds. Even before Christmas our
course was totally sodden so today there was nothing for it but to head to <a href="http://bristolgolfcentre.com/range.html" target="_blank">the localrange</a> especially as it’s Tuesday when for a mere fiver you can hit as
many balls as you like and get some decent swing advice from the friendly pro. What's more, I<a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/p-2154-cobra-baffler-rail-hybrid-2011.aspx" target="_blank"> have a shiny new hybrid to try out</a>, (thank you, Santa!) so there was no stopping me. <br />
<br />
Until I found the entrance road to the golf range under several feet of water. I might be keen, but I have my ailing suspension to consider! <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Still, I’ve been going on and off to this roll-up class for the last year and my
swing really has improved so that while I may still be playing off a ladylike 23, I’m
out-hitting the 16-20<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>handicappers I go out with on a regular basis. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
But am I taking the money? Well I have had my moments, but
truth to tell, I’ve never looked like getting below my current handicap,
because as Jonty says, at the end of the day it’s the short game that counts.
Getting close to the green in two is no good if it takes another three (at
least!) to get the wee white ball in the cup. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
The range is fine for sorting out the swing but the
temptation is to keep on wellying it as far as the eye can see, ignoring the bit
that will really lower your score. There are things you can do, like playing
consecutive shots with different clubs (there wood, six-iron, pitching wedge)
to replicate the experience of being on a course, but<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>chips and pitches don’t feel the same off the
manicured mats of the range. The club’s practice area is much better for
getting the feel of the shorter shots, except that practising outside in winter
leaves me cold in more ways than one!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
So it looks like it’s back to putting on the carpet for me,
and maybe <a href="http://www.golfcoachingonline.com/winter-golf-practice-tips/" target="_blank">some of these drills</a> will stand me in good stead for when I next
brave the elements.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-45uktQEWhpk/TwL1rPCExoI/AAAAAAAAAAQ/zd73ABlmzDM/s1600/alputt_8940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-45uktQEWhpk/TwL1rPCExoI/AAAAAAAAAAQ/zd73ABlmzDM/s320/alputt_8940.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Green Goddess in warmer weather! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Meanwhile I might do some virtual golfing, so if you
have a golf blog and interesting things to say, leave a comment so that we can
check you out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Happy practising!</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>Green Goddesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03720505366458231162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-20507301953013702132011-12-12T14:25:00.000+00:002011-12-12T15:18:13.678+00:00How To Choose A Golf Club - Beginners Guide Part 2/10<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTnKZJ26cnZuZHjsJRIH4UsmmJSOJqIRrmka8u7vEMjkxBk9c9sDLKWB_DysJgSWmj9_DuUjeboYtSgqllg_DPXRFfayvXw0R_ZxEs9xAsJl1y_GG0ObCnLx6LsszL166tA2KGZjeFrvF/s1600/golf_club-set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTnKZJ26cnZuZHjsJRIH4UsmmJSOJqIRrmka8u7vEMjkxBk9c9sDLKWB_DysJgSWmj9_DuUjeboYtSgqllg_DPXRFfayvXw0R_ZxEs9xAsJl1y_GG0ObCnLx6LsszL166tA2KGZjeFrvF/s320/golf_club-set.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
In part 1 we talked about the merits of starting with a traditional golf set. So what does a typical golf set include? A set is collection of no more than 14 clubs, and what you put in your bag depends on your choices - for example, substituting long irons for hybrids.<br />
<br />
A set of irons will include a 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9-iron, plus a pitching wedge (PW). It will probably also include a driver (1-wood), and a 3-wood and 5-wood, and a putter. On top of these will be able to 2 more clubs, and you might for example decide to carry a sand-wedge (SW) for getting out of bunkers, or a hybrid, which is an iron made with wood technology, and easier to hit with than either a driver or a long-iron.<br />
<br />
As a beginner you'll probably find that you rely mostly on your 7-iron and pitching wedge at first, and as you get more confident you will reach for the longer clubs, tackling the longer shots with hyrbids which are excellent for this kind of thing. To begin with it's worth putting a good deal of time into your short game as most shots are lost here, and you will use your putter two or three times as often as your driver!Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-78400601357847872442011-12-05T12:41:00.001+00:002011-12-05T14:14:11.136+00:00How To Choose A Golf Club - Beginners Guide Part 1/10<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioD0BM8TdDT3HKPoWDbnuvElpgfsLCfcpjt6AW1LsWydCdIbSC317_2Jfs2ik4LwkKfCC6V6ZX12L-Ypn6MIONTILsDeBSoxumoy_VZIC2reCImEO88WliGIui1z1c609TiloxMt1lOI44/s1600/sempachersee_golf_club8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioD0BM8TdDT3HKPoWDbnuvElpgfsLCfcpjt6AW1LsWydCdIbSC317_2Jfs2ik4LwkKfCC6V6ZX12L-Ypn6MIONTILsDeBSoxumoy_VZIC2reCImEO88WliGIui1z1c609TiloxMt1lOI44/s320/sempachersee_golf_club8.jpg" width="100%" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A golf club is for playing with, not sitting in! Although I do rather like the design of this club in <a href="http://www.golf-sempachersee.ch/sempach-index-en.php">Sempachersee</a>, Switzerland </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To a beginner, making head or tail of what's needed in a set of golf clubs can prove a real obstacle to getting on with learning the game. There are so many different club options - a
golf driver, irons, fairway woods, hybrids, wedges and putters. Some golfers prefer to play nearly all their fairway shots with fairway woods
or hybrids instead of irons, and in fact you can now get entire hybrid
iron sets! Then there are lofts to choose, and shaft flexes to decide upon and numerous other things to think about.
It can be bewildering! So it may come as no suprise that my advice to beginners would be "keep it simple". What does simple look like, you may ask?
Well I think a golf set is a very good place for a beginner to get started. A golf set will provide a good combination of clubs to
get you going and as you begin to develop your playing allow you to work out what you really need. Try starting with a set that
includes a couple of fairway woods and at least one hybrid, and ideally
a mallet putter. Good examples include the:<br />
<br />
<a class="blueLink" href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/p-1874-masters-mc-z540-club-set-steel.aspx">Masters MC Z540</a><br />
<a class="blueLink" href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/p-1842-wilson-staff-x31-club-set.aspx">Wilson Staff X31 Club Set</a> <br />
<br />
<ul></ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-80197240294936866922011-07-15T17:19:00.005+01:002011-11-28T14:51:52.394+00:00Time to get trollied!One thing has come clear to me over my extensive golfing and drinking career - it is not natural for a human being to lug a big heavy bag of golf clubs around a golf course, particularly the hilly variety without some kind of electrical assistance. It could just be that I'm getting that little bit older but when the weather is as hot as it has been, the sweat patches under my arms do not get any less embarrassing. For this reason I have been scouring the malls virtual and worldly for some golfing wheels and have decided that I like the look of the <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/p-2693-powakaddy-sport-electric-golf-trolley-2011-18-hole-lead-acid-battery.aspx">Powakaddy Sport Trolley</a>. Now I have to admit being an Big IPAD fan, I can't help but be pulled into the orbit of any bit of kit that has dials and flashing lights - but I think you might agree this particular trolley does seem to have everything but the kitchen sink thrown in, or more importantly does anybody know if a booze cabinet is provided?Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-6519295900894383902011-05-20T16:09:00.002+01:002012-02-27T12:05:34.727+00:00Nike VR STR8-FIT Tour Driver - Nice!The VR Tour is a great blend of engineering precision and sleek design excellence. The <a href="https://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/p-2250-nike-vr-pro-driver-str8-fit-tour-2011.aspx">Nike VR STR8-FIT Tour Driver</a> has an assured and classic style which helps to provide a low spin rate and therefore greater penetrating ball flight.The new Compression Channel tied to high moment of inertia, means you won't lose any distance with off centre hits. Allowing you to shape the ball a little easier, by adjusting the loft and lie with 32 different positions is the true value of this driver.<br />
<br />
Nike has designed the VR STR8 Tour with a 440cc head, which is also a more conventional 'pear' shape. This is a marginally smaller head than Nike's previous drivers, but once you start hitting balls you certainly won't notice the difference. With red, black and 'chrome' styling this driver follows on the classic but contemporary design of the VR range. The most noticeable feature of the club head is the hollow red channel on the sole, this is the Compression Channel. The Compression Channel is what drives this club. It acts like a catapult and springs the ball forward once the channel compresses. Found on all Nike drivers, the reconfigured face technology produces improved ball speeds.<br />
<br />
If the Compression Channel propels the club, then the STR8-FIT technology provides the guidance. There are 32 different positions to play with, 15 draw setups, 2 neutral, and 15 fade setups. <a href="http://www.ferrummetal.com/">See Metal Fabrication London</a> for more details. Close the face and see the ball draw, then open the face up and the ball will fade. All 32 positions lie between 2 degrees open and 2 degrees closed. The Nike Victory Red STR8-FIT Driver allows the golfer a chance to play with the same quality clubs used by the pros.Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-15800892692626716172011-05-06T10:43:00.002+01:002011-05-06T10:51:26.784+01:00Gadgets for the Golf-MadMen are notoriously more swayed by gadgets than women, and most sports offer plentiful opportunity to satisfy that itch for a new piece of hardware or software that claims to go where no gadget has gone before… so here is our selection of new golfing gadgets. Purely for the fun of it, you understand. (And you can add them to your birthday wish-list…).<br /><br />1. The Bushnell Tour V2 Slope Laser Rangefinder. This handy gadget not only gauges distance for you, it will also compensate distance measurements based on the degree of incline on a slope, while the PinSeeker technology will pick up the flag without capturing other background targets. Its range is 5 to 1,000 yards, and promises +/- one yard accuracy. All it doesn’t do is make the tea...<br /><br />2. Lost your pencil, dropped your score card? The Digital Golf Scorecard keeps track of your strokes, calculates scores and even saves your best round. It conveniently attaches to your golf bag or belt and is shock and water-resistant. What more do you want?<br /><br />3. Fed up of practicing putting because you spend most of your time bending down to pick up golf balls? Look no further. The RoboCup Golf Ball Return Robot makes practicing quick, fun, and painless, sending the ball back to you over distances of 14 feet or more, with each battery taking care of up to 12,000 returns. There’s even a caddy-cord to gather up your mis-hits and send them back where they came from…<br /><br />4. Psst! Fancy a drink? The Deluxe Electronic Golf Club Kooler Caddie is the perfectly discreet way to enjoy hot or cold drinks right from your golf bag. It looks like a regulation driver – haha! – but its secret is the one-button dispensing pump. Designed to sit unobtrusively in a side pocket so it doesn’t take up space inside, you can fill it with hot or cold beverages, and they’ll stay at the right temperature for hours. (And no, it’s not a good idea to take your favourite wine, beer or cider around with you. Just to be perfectly clear.)<br /><br />5. And finally, the most gadget-tastic of all, for the pure golf perfectionist, the hands-free Golf Swing Video Recorder. This allows you to correct your swing while you're on the course as it mounts to your golf bag, push, or golf cart. With one button recording and frame-by-frame playback, it captures your entire body and swing from six feet away. Play back through the built-in screen, your TV, or computer… you’ll be playing like a Pro in no time.<br /><br />Note to our dear readers: This piece has been unashamedly aimed at the guys. This is because most of the women golfers I know – and I’m one – would prefer a week in the sun with a little golf thrown it. It’s that simple!Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-19496122844586115712011-05-06T10:35:00.004+01:002011-05-06T10:41:49.339+01:00Summer Golfing - 5 Tips For Playing in the SunThis Easter we’ve already seen temperatures in the 20s, with plenty of sunshine to go round. Here are my top five tips for being prepared for the summer…<br /><br />1. It may sound blindingly obvious, but don’t forget your hat, shades and sunblock. Your skin hasn’t seen the sun all winter, and without a hat you’ll find yourself squinting into the void, unable to hit the ball straight. Your usual shades may be fine, but it needn’t cost the earth to get some glasses especially designed for sport – lightweight and with obstruction-free peripheral vision.<br /><br />2. Don’t forget to drink lots of water… the beer comes afterwards!<br /><br />3. Summer golf shoes are a lot more comfy than the mega-waterproof solid boots you trudged around the course in all winter. If you are looking for new shoes, there are plenty on the market which are light, breathable and look more like trainers. You can even get cool golf sandals which look like Tevas…but come with spikes. (As an added bonus, you get to avoid that unattractive white sock line!)<br /><br />4. Make the most of the long evenings. Don’t forget to pack your pencil bag for a quick nine after work. It’s good for you.<br /><br />5. It’s worth investing in summer golf shirts. These days they have Factor 50 UV protection, as well as wicking unwanted moisture away (that’s sweat, to you and me) – are stain-resistant, and don’t even need ironing.Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-49981331021025994922011-03-04T15:12:00.003+00:002011-03-04T15:21:06.484+00:00Nike Golf ShirtsThe all new 2011 <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/c-25-golf-shirts.aspx?manid=14">Nike Golf Shirts</a> range is now available. Incoporating Nike's performance optimising Dri Fit technology, this range of polo shirts are engineered to the same precise specifications that athletes across all sports know and trust. The main features are great moisture management, superior comfort and ultra lightweight flexibility, allowing for a greater gofling performance out on the green. Current golf hot shots wearing this range of Nike golf clothing include Tiger Woods, Jhonattan Vegas, Pablo Martin, Charl Schwartzel and Paul Casey.Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-10574847536745019112011-01-31T11:16:00.002+00:002011-02-11T12:29:05.053+00:00Nike Storm Fit Waterproofs<style>@font-face { font-family: "Cambria"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }</style> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">The range of <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/c-31-golf-waterproofs.aspx?manid=14">Nike Storm Fit Waterproofs</a> are engineered to be ultra comfortable and ultra light. The seam-sealed fabrics used in these products will keep you dry whatever the weather and of course the lightweight and breathable laminate materials mean that both wind and rain is blocked, keeping your golf game comfortable throughout.<span style=""> </span>Other features of the range include 4-way stretch for added range of motion, and they can packed away into a zippered pocket. </span></p>Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-32823872995872750162011-01-21T17:12:00.006+00:002011-01-21T17:18:29.572+00:00Nike Slingshot Irons<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/images/product/icon/NIIrSl001.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 152px;" src="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/images/product/icon/NIIrSl001.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><style type="text/css">p { margin-bottom: 0.21cm; </style>A set for high handicappers - providing forgiveness in a set of irons begins with weight management. Moving the weight deeper and lower gives a larger sweet spot and a deeper center of gravity that acutally exists in air behind the face. The benefit is a mixed set of hybrids and irons that are more foregiving and and can get the ball airborne. If that's what you are looking for the <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/p-745-nike-slingshot-4d-golf-irons-4-sw-steel.aspx">Nike Slingshot Irons</a> are definitely a set worth trying.<br /><p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p>Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-81774694725751854612010-08-23T18:26:00.002+01:002010-08-23T18:32:22.903+01:00One of Scotlands greatest - LadybankOn a fine summer’s day, it can be hard to imagine a lovelier spot for a round of golf. With abundant pine and silver birch trees, Ladybank offers rare beauty as well as a top-notch golfing challenge. Ladybank is a Par 71 Championships course, formed of two nine-hole loops, with a total length of 6,754 yards – though there is the shorter 6,299 yard Blue Course, most usually enjoyed by visitors.<br /><br />An Open Qualifying course, Ladybank’s original course, of just six holes, was designed by ‘Old’ Tom Morris back in 1879. It has, as you can imagine, changed a great deal since then, but if you stray off line, you can still expect to be punished!<br /><br />An uplifting experience for all golfers, Ladybank has played host to a galaxy of stars since it was accepted for Final Qualifying in 1978. While undoubtedly challenging, the course can be described as a fair test of golf – and is also fairly flat, so relatively easy on the legs.<br /><br />We love it!<br /><br />Click here for more informationon about <a href="http://www.ladybankgolf.co.uk">Ladybank</a> golf courseJonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-77007257787258555322010-08-03T17:37:00.004+01:002010-08-03T17:50:26.479+01:00Time to consider a better brands?Many golfers new to the sport will probably be playing with clubs that were part of a packaged set or look similar to brand leading products – not necessarily clones but products that appear to offer similar technology – but do they? <br /><br />Package sets, which include woods, irons, a putter and a bag, tend to be built down to an attractive price point with the result their manufacturers usually have to cut some corners. Possibly one of the weakest points in their specification may be found in the quality of their shafts. Now to a beginner one shaft looks very much like another, so do they matter? The answer is very much yes, they do! The shaft connects the club to the golfer and transmits the power generated through the club face to the ball. Now shafts bend or flex in a variety of ways during the swing so it’s important to have one that is ideal for a beginner. The better they are the more expensive they become, so unfortunately they are less likely to be in a budget set.<br /><br />Heads too can look very similar but the devil is in the detail. Most of us only view a club from their outside appearance, particularly their graphics, but today with the use of computer aided design, the inside becomes equally important. Small amounts of material can be taken away from one part of the head to another, where they will be more effective in helping the beginner or higher handicap golfer to avoid a slice – when the ball, for a right handed golfer, veers off to the right probable landing in the rough, worst still in a hedge or out of bounds!<br /><br />So you decided to take up the sport, you are enjoying the fresh air, exercise and company but you would like to improve your performance and lower your handicap. Possibly this is the time to evaluate your golf irons to see if an upgrade would add to your enjoyment of the sport.<br /><br />The time has possibly come to consider buying clubs from a well known manufacturer. Their brand names are important to them and so the good ones are not going to cut corners. Their products have been developed over a number of years using the best in computer aided design and while you may not be able to see the differences trust the name: Callaway, Ping and TalorMade for example.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/c-38-golf-irons.aspx?manid=18">Ping‘s G15</a> are great examples of what you should be looking for. They have been designed with high launch angles and maximum forgiveness sought after by the majority of golfers. The stainless steel heads feature a new Custom Tuning Port (CTP) design that saves 7 grams which has been moved to the perimeter further enhancing the MOI. The heads also feature thinner club faces that release weight to be re-positioned at the toe - a great benefit on miss hit shots. Finally the wider sole moves weight further away from the face helping to create higher flying, longer launch shots.Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-49345981350475020782010-07-26T16:14:00.002+01:002010-07-26T16:22:51.330+01:00Are you the average golfer?Well first what is the average golfer – does any body knows? We all have different heights, glove sizes and swing speed, to mention but three elements that will effect how your clubs and ball will react when they come into contact with each other.<br /><br />Each manufacture has their own view what is average too, so it is fairly unlikely that all the standard clubs in a shop will be the ideal for you. To overcome this you need to consider custom fitting. This is important no matter your handicap and it should cost you no more.<br /><br />The elements that will be taken into account during custom fitting will include shaft length and flex, lie angle and grip size. Visit this <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/t-golf-club-custom-fit.aspx">custom fit</a> site for more information.Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-54747636030635767102010-07-19T14:12:00.002+01:002010-07-19T14:15:14.995+01:00Putting plays key role at 2010 OpenWe forecasted that putting and putters would play a big part at the Open this year owing to the vast size of the greens at St Andrews – the largest being about an acre. Poulter commented that much of his game had been on form but his putting had been “abysmal”. Similarly for Woods, who tried out a new putter the first for 11 years, he too had little luck with few balls dropping. This resulted in him changing his putter for the final round.<br /><br />Louis Oosthuizen, on the other hand, smiled his way around the course with a putter that performed all week. And the logo on his hat - Ping - gave it all away. He has been using Redwood Anser, a series that includes D66, Piper, Zing, ZB. The range is named after Redwood City, Pings birthplace. They are 100% milled from 303 stainless steel and offered in two finishes: Black Nickel or Black Satin. They are putters for those looking for classic lines and great performance.<br /><br />Check out the <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/c-39-golf-putters.aspx?pagenum=1&manid=18&genreid=0">Ping putter range</a> – there will be one for you from as little as £59.99!Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-9278747241861305372010-07-18T07:32:00.004+01:002010-07-18T07:45:03.266+01:00Thinking of taking up golf?The Open at St Andrews this week, and what a week it’s been - high winds, heavy squally showers then sunshine, will once again stimulate many a potential golfer to consider taking up the sport. And why not, golf unlike many other sports has a lot of unique factors going for it. Although Mark Twain once famously said that golf was a good walk spoilt, there must be something more that attracts both young and old into the sport.<br /><br />Yes, it certainly gets you out in the fresh air for a walk of about three miles, which can vary from flat meadowland to steep rugged terrain. Now if that seem as a bit daunting then of late golfers of all ages have taken to using an <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/c-142-golf-electric-trolley.aspx">electric trolley</a>. This gives them the advantages of the walk but without the strain of carrying a heavy bag. But which ever way you choose its good exercise, all year round in lovely countryside – just what the doctor ordered! <br /><br />Possibly one of its unique features is that people of all ages, genders and abilities can compete against each other, owing to the handicap system. This enables friends and colleagues to get the excitement of competition but on equal terms. This aside, age is by no means a barrier, clearly demonstrated by Tom Watson, now sixty, as runner up in last years Open Championship at Turnberry. A wise old head accounts for a lot!<br /><br />The game, courses and equipment are always evolving too. A decade or two ago the ball tended to be hit along the ground, unlike to day where the ball is more frequently in the air, leading to the spectacular drives seen on the Tour. The courses themselves have also had to change their spots in order to maintain their challenge. The modification to the world famous Road Hole at St Andrews being a typical example where an extra 40 yards have been added to sharpen its teeth. Many of these changes result from the massive investment in technology made by the major golfing brands such as Ping, <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/m-30-taylormade.aspx">TaylorMade</a> and Titleist. These have not only made Tour player performance more spectacular but have also made the game far more interesting and less demanding for the beginner in their early stages.<br /><br />If you are a beginner or know someone that would like to take up the sport, Greatvaluegolf's <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/t-golf-equipment-golf-beginners-guide-one.aspx">Golf Guides</a> are a usefull link for you to follow up.Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-82884763151774612182010-07-14T15:13:00.002+01:002010-07-14T15:34:49.984+01:00Just Launches - Powakaddy TOUCH n GOTOUCH ‘n’ GO is Powakaddy’s innovative method for speed control. It has no buttons or knobs, like other electric golf trolleys on the market, simply a touch sensitive handle, which slide forwards and backwards to control speed.<br /><br />Read on for more information on the <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/p-1876-powakaddy-touch-electric-golf-trolley-18-hole.aspx">Powakaddy TOUCH</a>Jonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8229687633293968377.post-91953672920535428502010-07-12T17:16:00.002+01:002010-07-12T17:25:10.341+01:00The 2010 OpenWhoever wins, at St Andrews perhaps more than on other championship courses, the old adage that you drive for show but putt for dough is truer than ever. The trusty putter is the most used club in all golfers’ bags, and the Old Course contains some of the largest greens in the world, with seven shared between holes – the shared green covering the 5th and the 13th is actually estimated to be THE largest in the world, at over 100 yards from front to back. At more than an acre in total size, it would take the average greenkeeper an hour and a half to trim into to shape with a mower! To help both pros and club golfers alike there is a great choice of putters to help cut down on putts and for the Open avoid long walks!<br /><br />Read on for <a href="http://www.greatvaluegolf.co.uk/t-news-and-reviews.aspx">more information</a> on the OpenJonty Driverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11015138416759294608noreply@blogger.com0