Rather be Golfing?

New concept in electric golf trolley purchasing and maintenance

2009-10-14T16:01:00.005+01:00

The Masters Golf Company is little known by many golfers, yet it is the most purchased brand in Europe. Their product range covers a whole host of items: bags, trolleys, tees, and accessories that are essential to the game but are not brand sensitive.

Their philosophy is simple - excellent product quality and outstanding value, to make golfers’ money go further. This is achieved by not sponsoring expensive players on the tour, enabling them to offer you lower prices – leaving change in your pocket that could be better spent with your local pro, getting some valuable advice on how to improve your swing!

Masters have built their enviable reputation with Golf Pros by offering great customer service. Now they are offering a similar service to golfers with their electric trolley programme. Not only does it give you the option to spec your own electric trolley but it also provides direct services second to none.

Not all golfers are the same
What Masters has recognised is that not all golfers and courses are the same, so what’s right for one golfer may not be right for another. Take courses for example, some are flat meadowland while others are really hilly and that’s going to affect your battery requirements. A 17 amp/hr battery is fine on a course where the topography is not to demanding, while a 24 amp/hr battery would be better suited to hillier conditions. And a 36 amp/hr would be best for those wanting to play 36 holes in a day.

The batteries are a bit special too and come with a carry bag, two phase charger and Torberry connector which help insure they are connected correctly. They are guaranteed to be less than a month old and are in peak condition. This is unlike many other brands that may have spent weeks on the water coming from the Far East and then be held even longer in a shop. How is this done? Well the batteries are made in Wales.

So their answer is to offer you the Masters Evo RS as a basic frame, wheels and controls, without battery, for £149.99 which enables you to choose the right battery for you and still have enough cash to add on some accessories that are going to make your round even more enjoyable. Choose from GPS/phone or umbrella holders, transit bags, to mention but a few. Once ordered your own trolley spec will be delivered direct from Masters warehouse on the next working day – need we say more.

Direct warranty and service programme
But if that's not enough they are also giving you a much needed choice of warranty and service programme as you order. Now you may be wondering why service is important. Well trolleys get a very hard life running long distances, often in heavy rough and regularly soaked in large puddles or heavy rain. This means that all brands are subject to failures. These can mount up to 9% in the first year - more as time goes by. So getting a guaranteed speedy service is critical.

The basic level of cover included in the above pricing, requires you to return the product to Masters who will repair and return it to you within 5 working days. You will need to package it, so it’s best to keep your original boxing, although you can buy a transit box! But wait for it; they have a Platinum 12 and 24 month upgrade too. Both include free pick up from your home or office, completed repair and a comprehensive clean. Additionally you are entitled to an annual service, which needs to be taken in months 11 or 12 from the date of purchase.

Conclusion
Experience shows that getting true value for money from your electric golf trolley is all about a quality product with quality back up. Ensure you check out both before you make your purchase!

PIng G15 Set to Impress

2009-09-21T11:28:00.003+01:00

Ping has made a habit of launching its next season’s clubs well before its competitors. So additions to its range for 2010 were eagerly awaited in August this year. Expectations were that a G15 launch could be on the cards.

G10 clubs, launched in September 2007, already had an illustrious pedigree which included the G2 and G5. They are ideal for a wide range of golfers: established players looking for forgiveness, higher handicap golfers looking for game improvement clubs or beginners. This had made them an award winning range, featuring for two years running as “Gold” in Golf Digest’s “Hot List”. So could they be improved?

The surprise was that the Ping launch for 2010 not only a G15 but also an i15, each being developed for different player types. The ranging for both was comprehensive too, offering irons, drivers, fairways and hybrids. The G15 series is targeted to appeal to the majority of golfers seeking the most forgiving and easy to use clubs available. While the i15 series are designed to offer forgiveness but also the workability and control sought by lower handicap golfers. Mark Calcavecchia is already playing with one of the drivers and has already set a PGA Tour record of nine consecutive birdies in the RBC Canadian Open.

So let’s see what the Ping G15 range has to offer.

Golfers - Protect Yourselves

2009-08-04T19:37:00.003+01:00

We are all constantly being told by doctors to cover up from the harm full effects of the sun. A theme that some golf clothing manufactures have taken to heart, producing shirt ranges that are designed to give us added UV protection.

So is this all we should be thinking about? Are there other factors that we experience as golfers without us thinking about them? The answer of course is yes!

Golf is a physical sport – driving the ball towards the green, lifting a heavy bags, which can weight in excess of 20 kilograms, 50 times or more per round and carrying the bag for 2 or 3 miles, even further for high handicappers!

Every time we exercise like this we run the danger of creating micro tears in our muscles. These create pain and hinder performance not only for golfers but players of all sports: rugby, football, cricketers and swimmers for example. Now you may have noticed that many have tight fitting garments that often peaking out from under their clothing or in the case of swimmers almost completely encase them. Well these are known as compression garments that have the benefit of reducing muscle vibration and micro tearing, which is a key factor in energy loss. They assisting blood returning to the heart which increases the flow of oxygen to muscles for greater energy and faster healing.

The obvious last thing to consider is cutting out the lifting and carrying. This is best done with the help of an electric golf trolley like the Motocaddy S1. These also have the advantage over pull trolleys of reducing the need to twist the back. In the past these were the preserve of older golfers but this stigma is long past. Younger players now recognise the benefits on offer – after all Tour players use caddies!

Titleist Stand Bags get Thumbs Up

2009-07-28T17:24:00.003+01:00

Full apparel and ball pockets, foam padded strap, beverage sleeve and a quick action roller bottom stand mechanism make the Titleist X-91 Stand Bag the perfect choice for golfers looking for a lightweight stand bag without sacrificing on space. There's also a full length 2 way club divider for easy access to your clubs, and detachable, zipped rainhood, all in a stand bag that weighs a mere 1.5Kg.

Was Turnberry The Open Winner?

2009-07-22T11:23:00.008+01:00

Are majors getting too easy for the Tour? Should the world’s best players be regularly carding ten, twelve or even fifteen under par? Are the courses less of a test than they should be? Should the courses be set up to give final scores within +or- 5 from par?

In an attempt to Tour-proof some of our greatest courses, holes have been redesigned, with dog-legs introduced into the fairways and the rough and semi-rough brought closer and grown higher - the narrowest fairway at Turnberry is under ten feet wide. The 10th has also been redesigned to bring the coastline into play. It now requires at least a 200-yard carry over the rocks from a tee perched on an outcrop by the lighthouse – while the course is almost 250 yards longer overall. This mitigates against the power game, ensuring a real test of skill, and hopefully reigning in the absurdly low scores we sometimes see. (Interestingly the joint lowest score ever posted in Major championship history was 63 scored at Turnberry in 1986 by Greg Norman, another ‘old timer’ still gracing the Tour today.

The weather will perhaps deal the cruelest hand of all at links courses like Turnberry. Wind and rain set in on day 2, and of the first 54 golfers out on the course that day, only four were under par as the breeze increasingly picked up off the Firth of Clyde and light rain began to make the rough soggy. Its just these conditions when you need a good golf waterproof.

With all this in mind is The Open the greatest test of skill and should other follow the example?

Taylormade Burner Driver 2009

2009-07-08T11:57:00.003+01:00

The Taylormade Burner Driver 2009 has been one of the hostest products this year. The golf driver is excellent for improving distance whilst keeping a firm hand on where the ball ends up. This kind of performance typically means you may find you are reaching the fairway in fewer strokes than before.

The Burner driver was first launched back in 1983. Since then the company has used technological advances to design drivers, irons and other clubs that can push the ball with a greater degree of accuracy and send it the extra distance. TaylorMade golf clubs are used by some of the game's best players, including Christian Cevaer, the newest winner of the European Open. More information on the Taylormade Burner driver can be found here.

Sunderland Golf Clothing

2009-06-29T16:05:00.002+01:00

Sunderland golf clothing was established in 1966 and is recognised as one of the world’s top golfwear brands for technical performance. The choice of many golf tournament professionals, Sunderland has been selected in recent years for the Ryder Engineered to the very highest specifications. Their golfwear will help you combat the most severe playing conditions, by combining revolutionary fabric with leading edge manufacturing technology to keep you warm, dry and comfortable. In addition to golf waterproofs and weatherwear, Sunderland also offers a summer range of golf shirts and trousers offering exclusive protection from UV rays. More info can be found at Sunderland Golf Clothing

Orr wins Scottish PGA Championship

2009-06-29T12:28:00.003+01:00

The 35-year-old East Renfrewshire pro closed with a five-under-par 67 over the PGA Centenary course for a 10-under aggregate of 278 to ease to a three shot victory over long-time leader Craig Lee.

Orr, runner-up in the national championship in 2002 and with three other top-five finishes in the event in recent years, had slipped four shots off the pace when Lee holed his second shot at the first for an eagle but the chamionship unravelled on the inward half as the destination of the crown changed dramatically.

http://www.pga.info/News/40878942.htm

US Open Winner 2009 - Lessons Learned

2009-06-24T10:13:00.004+01:00

Trevor Gliwski thinks that the PGA tour winner 2009, Lucas Glover won on the basis of his driving game. He explains the mysterious mechanics of spine tilt, for those of you who thought it was just about a good straight back and a bit of bend from the hips....

The Golf Drivers

Powakaddy goes soft

2009-06-24T09:44:00.003+01:00

Powakaddy unveils the stylish new state-of-the-art Freeway II
to replace the highly popular Freeway.

The new Freeway features includes a number of improvements including fully integrated LCD display, soft touch ergonomic hand grip and multi function control. The multi function screen includes a Distance Measuring Facility that can measure both how far the ball has been hit and the distance travelled during the whole round in yards or meters. The distance function enables golfers to set the trolley moving forward for a defined distance before stopping eg 10, 20 or 30 metres. The screen also indicates battery power; actual travelling speed and time.

Powakaddy Electric Golf Trolleys

Galvin Green Waterproofs - multi layering in action

2009-06-23T13:49:00.002+01:00

Galvin Green waterproofs recognise that a number of layered garments are needed to keep the golfer dry and warm and each of these needs to perform a different function whilst at the same time working seamlessly together in the background, enabling the golfer to fully concentrate on his or her game whatever the weather.

Galvin Green Waterproofs

Hands up for Open Glover

2009-06-23T11:11:00.002+01:00

American Lucas Glover to clinches the rain-hit 109th US Open.

Glover claimed his first major by two shots from world number two Mickelson, former world number one Duval and third-round leader Ricky Barnes.

The UK's Ross Fisher was hot on their heals for most of the final round but ended three back for his best major finish.

519th - Barnes Takes Lead in US Open

2009-06-22T17:08:00.000+01:00

With 16 of the 60-strong field yet to start, play was delayed by a further four-and-a-half hours on Sunday because of overnight downpours, but on the resumption Barnes quickly stretched his lead to three over Glover after a birdie at the 2nd.

Hit me with those laser beams!

2009-04-01T10:57:00.006+01:00

For those of you the hadn't heard already, the golf course has just become a lot more exciting with the availability of hand held laser guided rangefinders.

Golf range finders deploy an invisible Class 1 laser beam which is bounced off a target at the press of a button and is safe to the eye. The rangefinder's internal digital clock measures the time taken for the outward and return journey of the laser and then immediately calculates and displays the distance.

Typical uses or targets for the rangefinder include the flag on top of the pin, trees and other hazards.

The greater advantage in this type of system is that you can go to any course, any time, take the unit out of your bag and get measuring. The only disadvantage is that the target has to be within line of sight. So it couldn't be used from the tee to a hidden green for example. Having said this their are plenty of situations where it will give you valuable information and an edge on your game. For more information click on Golf Rangefinders.

New Range in From Galvin Green

2009-02-13T14:01:00.003Z

The new 2009 Galvin Green range is in and includes many exciting new products including the Ashford. According to Galvin Green, Ashford is a new anorak made completely
from stretch Gore-Tex® Performance Shell fabric.
Because the stretch material is applied in different
directions on different parts of the item, players
can be sure of optimal freedom of movement
throughout their swing, making it ideal for golfers who are looking for comfort. For more information check Galvin Green's site.

What's in store for 2009?

2009-02-11T10:25:00.004Z

Don't get depression from recession - Hireko golf blog takes a glimpse into the crystal ball out to reveal that all will be well in 2009.

Which golf waterproof

2008-11-12T12:13:00.003Z

It's got to that time of year when the weather becomes a major concern for us golfers. There is nothing more miserable than being out on the course when the wind begins to howl and the rain starts to fall and you can feel the water trickling in and the bones chilling. The trick to me seems to be buying the right waterproof which gives you the flexibility to put layers underneath if needed and won't mean that every time the season changes you'll have to head down to the shop again to buy yet another bit of golf clothing. So what are the things to look out for when buying a waterproof?

First off I would say make sure it's breathable, staying dry on the oustside is one goal but no good if you end up drowning in your own perspiration on the inside. Also make sure it doesn't make any noise when you swing, there's nothing more uncouth and distracting than the sound of a large tarpaulin unfurling itself every time you take a swing.

Make sure you get adjustable cuffs that stay in the same place on your arm, the long cold trickle of rain water down your arm will dilute the best of games. Look for adjustable toggels around the neck line for the same reason. Check any pocket come with protective flaps and appear sturdy and well sealed.

Galvin Green Waterproofs are not necessarily cheap but if you want a quality top then check them out. Good luck in your quest and remmber it's very important that you stay warm, dry, cool and comfortable, although a flask of whisky will provide a welcome back up should you get caught out!

Galvin Green 2008 Range - Wrap Up for winter

2008-10-03T13:49:00.003+01:00

The Galvin Green range of golf clothing offers the very latest in comfort and protection by combining different layers to give ultimate flexibility enabling garments to match and function to suit all types of weather and golfing environments.

The Gore Tex performance shell guaranteed to keep you dry even when sitting or leaning towards wet surfaces but at the same time allows for maximum breathability, say goodbye to hot and sweaty wet days on the golf course! Check out Galvin Green.

Powakaddy Trolleys

2008-09-30T14:34:00.003+01:00

So buying a golf trolley may make sense for you, but what should you be looking for when you buy? Golf trolleys vary from one brand to another, both in appearance and in the way they drive and handle. Each has its own merits and that makes it important for you to determine in advance how you intend to use your trolley. Browse through the range of Powakaddy electric trolleys here and you are very likely to find the one that works best for you.

Ping G10

2008-09-29T16:19:00.005+01:00

I've spent years frustrated with my short game, and then my wife gave me a set of Ping G10 irons for my birthday. I loved the feel of the clubs in my hands, and the swing felt natural (I had been using a set of old hand-me-downs of various brands, most of which felt heavy compared to other golfers' clubs). I've never been a good golfer, previously golfing only a few times a month. But now I have more time and am entering tournaments with a handicap of 9, and I needed something to help me reduce my stroke count. The Ping G10 was the answer!

Golf Head Covers

2008-07-30T11:17:00.004+01:00

Not so long ago the humble golf head cover was a rather drab and functional thing – usually in black and mostly made from man made materials. They certainly served their purpose of protecting club heads but little else. In the main they were supplied with golf drivers and fairway woods but as time progressed iron and putter covers gained greater popularity. Functionally they have also developed, first with longer socks to make them more graphite friendly, then with many forms of closure including zips, velcro and most recently magnets.

Now however it’s a completely different story. Yes the functionality is there but so to are many funky fashion statements. So if you are not satisfied with the ever increasing range of traditional head covers and want to personalise your bag, the range of options now available is immense.

Animal golf head covers The choice includes animals like Bears, Lions, Labradors, Cats and Foxes. Some are stylised while others are really life-like. Prices for individual covers range from £7 to £20.

Girlie Moment

2008-05-01T20:56:00.005+01:00

Not on my part (the 'moment' that is) but the Daily Telegraph stands accused. Launching a new golf page in the Sport section today (sorry, no sign in the online edition) they just happen to give the most space to a photo of Jodie Kidd. Not that I have any problem with Jodie who plays a good game , comes acrosss well in Pro-Am tournaments and takes a lovely photo (well, she is a model I suppose!) I just hope the Telegraph is going to take heed of the equality lobby and give us girls a picture of some gorgeous hunk in a future issue, though since the tour is lamentably short IMO of truly delectable men-folk, perhaps we'll be treated to some of those eager celebrity golfers (Ronan Keating? Hugh Grant? Meat Loaf???)

Talking of the male physique, I did get a bit of a shock seeing Monty step out in the Spanish Open today. Five weeks off golf and it looks like he's gained a pound for every day. If I were his wife I might be worried. On the other hand, he was playing some fine golf and turned in a more than respectable 2 under for the day.
Will try to remember this next time I'm offered a Danish pastry.
You can see Monty (in slimmer mode) and Jodie Kidd on an outing together here.

Happy Birthday Blog!

2008-05-01T20:40:00.004+01:00

I think it's actually belated birthday wishes as the blog began in April last year, though I'm not sure (without tedious research) which day it was.

I think I'll call yesterday the 'official birthday' as I had a great round. That would make today my first unbirthday - and yes, the round was to match!

Whenever it was, thank you to all the visitors who keep turning up to see what's going on.

Monty gets hitched

2008-04-22T20:04:00.004+01:00

Hardly a surprise that Monty took his wedding guests for a celebratory round of golf at Loch Lomond. I mean, why else get married next to a golf course? And at least he got the golf out of the way first, and has apparently promised to stay off the course for the duration of the honeymoon. (Hmm, is Gaynor wise? Dare she come between a man and his golf for that long?) Anyway, his pre-wedding golf is in contrast to a friend of mine who was woken at 5am on the day after the nuptials so that a certan game of golf could go ahead.
Yes, they are still married, honest!

BTW the above link is not to the club's own website which to my mind is an irritatingly Flashy piece of work, but it has at least reminded me of my ambition to visit the Barclay's Scottish Open coming up in July. Can't think of a better place to watch golf or a better time to try out my new swing north of the border (though possibly not on that partcular course!)

Progress Report

2008-04-09T22:22:00.002+01:00

Second lesson is now under my belt and I'm quietly pleased so far. A spell at the range and a couple of relaxed rounds and I feel I'm getting the hang of my new stance. Now I also have to add width to my swing and have a drill involving a club cover under my arm. I need some practice time to get it all together but in the meantime I'm managing some solid hits. The only problem is, that I have a sneaking feeling these two lessons could be the tip of an iceberg, i.e. the beginning of a chain of changes (and lot of lessons!)
I may have to 'consider my future' in this respect, but meanwhile I'm off on a non-golfing holiday. A contradiction in terms? Certainly sounds like it to me, and as well be out of range of the Beeb, we won't even have the Masters as consolation. I suppose it will be interesting to see what state I'm in after a week of cold turkey!