Golfhacker9

GOLFHACKER.ORG
ISSUE NO. 9
GOLFHACKER
T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R T H E A V E R A G E G O L F E R
CHARLEY
HULL
We go "Inside the Ropes" at
the Ricoh Women's British
Open
48 hours in Wiltshire:
Kingsdown, Tidworth
Garrison, West Wilts
Golf Club and of course,
Stonehenge!
Save shots on the
green with our
putting special
featuring
Lee Slattery!

go "Inside the
We
with Charley
Ropes"
at this year's Ricoh
Hull
British Open
Women's
at the LET? What
Crisis
can do to turn it
we
greatest holes.
Golf's
Belfry: The 10th at
The
Senior
European
The new
Masters:
kid on the
(old)
block
play at the British
We
3 Par
Championship...what
possibly go
could
Hours in Wiltshire:
48
Tidworth
Kingsdown,
West Wilts
Garrison,
of course,
and
Special: From
Putting
to practising in
grips
own home...we
your
you covered.
have
featuring tips from
Also
Tour star, Lee
European
CONTENTS
Editor's Notes
around
the Brabazon
wrong?
Stonehenge
Slattery
Meet The
Review:
Frog DivA
Twisted
GOLFHACKER
www.golfhacker.org

First, we went "Inside the Ropes" with Charley Hull at the Ricoh
GOLFHACKER
MAGAZINE
www.golfhacker.org
@kevern_nick
@golfhacker1
THIS ONE IS JAM
PACKED...WE'VE BEEN
BUSY INDEED
EDITORIAL
NICK KEVERN
Editor-In-Chief
CONTRIBUTORS
It's been a busy time since our last issue but don't panic it is all
Nick Kevern, William
Murfitt, Champions PLC,
right here for you.
Medi8
Women's British Open. For those that have ever wondered
WITH THANKS TO:
what actually happens at a major tournament then this one is
Charley Hull, Daniel
for you.
Grieve, Lee Slattery,
We also took a trip to Wiltshire to explore three of the counties
Ashley Mason and
VisitWilshire
great courses. What a welcome we had from the clubs
involved and we would like to thank them for the hospitality
we received. If you've never been before we strongly
it.
recommend
GolfPunk asked us if we wanted to play in the British Par
Then
Championship at Nailcote Hall. Naturally, we said yes. I mean
3
could possibly go wrong? Find out how we got on with
what
SUBSCRIPTIONS
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our Pro, Ashley Mason. Speaking of Ashley...he came 2nd at the
event! We were in good hands with him indeed.
N I C K K E V E R N
Editor-In-Chief

Image: Ladies European Tour

is always interesting being in the same room as
It
Hull. Confidence is something she is not
Charley
on and her ability to talk frankly is to be
short
Here is someone not afraid to shy
commended.
from the media. Prior to her press conference
away
the Ricoh Women's British Open at Kingsbarns, I
at
around for a few holes inside the ropes as
went
was preparing for the tournament on her
Charley
one of her coaches, Daniel Grieve,
Alongside
looked cool, calm and collected. Her swing
Charley
as good as always. In fact, you wouldn’t
looked
know that she is getting over a wrist injury.
really
on a ball in the rough, it was one of her
Taking
partners, Jacqui Concolino that reminded
playing
offered Hull the chance to help her out:
Concolino
you don’t have to hit it from there if you
“Charley,
it’s alright. It’s a good lie. But thanks
“Nah,
anyway.”
seems to be a good place going about her
Hull
on the practice round. Both she and her
business
were sharing plenty of laughs talking about
coach
“Northampton massive.”
the
have no idea what that is, but it shows the
I
relationship that they have. The key thing
strong
that she is relaxed. Last year it was not quite
is
same. With the Ricoh Women’s British Open
the
on her home turf, it became clear
happening
there was more pressure on her.
that
asked about if she felt more relaxed this
When
she said: “Yeah, a little bit. At the top of
year
far away from Woburn. Just feels
Scotland,
Like a normal event. Obviously a
normal.
breathtaking views at Kingsbarns may have
The
It had Hull's attention as her mind
helped.
Inside the
Ropes with
Charley Hull
We went around a few holes with Charley Hull and her coach, Daniel Grieve as
Charley was busy preparing for the Ricoh Women's British Open at Kingsbarns.
Thankfully our Media Pass allowed us to go "Inside the Ropes" to give you an
insight of what really happens on practice day. Sit back and enjoy.
practice round.
major.”
drifted away from the golf.
her to take it easy.
think your wrist ain’t up to it”

moment, Hull whipped out her mobile phone and went
a
taking a panorama photo of the beautiful
about
Then it was time for golf again. Memories of
coastline.
year’s tournament have clearly already been blown
last
a different Charley now though. She has claimed her
It’s
LPGA title since then and is preparing to take on
first
as she searches for her first major
Kingsbarns
Recovering from a wrist injury isn’t going
championship.
stop her in her tracks. She was striking it sweetly, so
to
that her playing partner heaped on the praise.
sweetly
is one of Charley’s favourite courses. Talking
Kingsbarns
the course she said: “I think it’s a really fair links
about
course. You hit a good shot, you’re going to get
golf
And I kind of like the greens. Actually, they
rewarded.
rolling quite nice. They are quite slow but I don’t
are
they can make them super fast because of the
think
And you’re near St. Andrews as well. You just feel
wind.
you’re at the Home of Golf.”
like
is no denying just how good Charley Hull is at the
There
That has become a given but she is also prepared
game.
answer anything you throw at her. With the LET (Ladies
to
Tour) struggling of late in terms of cancelled
European
Hull’s take on the matter was one of
tournaments,
and positivity.
sympathy
I feel sorry for the girls in the LET, but I reckon
“Yeah,
will be fine in the next couple of years hopefully.
they
I don’t really look into it too much. I just try and
But
on my golf.”
concentrate
is here where you can also see a different side to
It
Hull. Whilst there is no doubting that she is a
Charley
of fresh air in terms of her natural charms and
breath
there is also a serious side. Whilst her love of
humour,
is well documented (not sure if there are any in
Nandos
Andrews actually), there is also that steely desire to
St.
Once the competition starts she becomes a whole
win.
animal.
new
two time Solheim Cup player, former LET Order of
A
winner and now, a LPGA Tour winner, it will be a
Merit
Charley that takes to the course once it really
different
Cue the Kettering assassin as she aims to take
matters.
“Look at the sea, I’m so getting a picture of this!” Within
photos of the week
away.
Image: Ladies European Tour
Image: Ladies European Tour
Image:Ladies European Tour
the crown at the Ricoh Women’s British Open.

1 in 12 go Free!
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Golfhacker does not work alone. In
fact, we have the pleasure of working
with the best in the business.
So when GolfPunk asked us to attend
the Media Launch of the European
Senior Masters, then who were we to
say no.
They told us, "Don't forget your golf
sticks!" Oh, don't worry about that
guys...we won't.
THE LET: FOR
THE FUTURE OF
GOLF, IT HAS TO
BE SAVED AND
WE ALL HAVE TO
PLAY OUR PART
as confidential, it was an email
Marked
was never meant to enter the public
that
However, for whatever reason,
domain.
message got to The Times. A
the
decided to leak that email
whistleblower
what has emerged is that the Ladies
and
Tour is looking fragile.
European
many within the game, the sense of
For
has been somewhat diluted. The
shock
has seen a reduction in tournaments
LET
the years. Back in 2014, the tour
over
22 events excluding any majors
hosted
European soil. Now that figure stands
on
15 following five cancelled events. One
at
those remaining events has been co-
of
by the LPGA. Even more
sanctioned
concerning is the lack of events in the
first part of the year. Since the start of
B y N i c k K e v e r n
only four times. To make matters worse,
2017 LET players have taken to the course
one of the recent events cancelled is the
tour’s flagship event, The Ladies
European Masters.
N O M A D I C | 2 4

Yet, the loss of events is something players are
players. The knowledge of not knowing where
tour. Now they face the prospect of gaps in
However, there is hope. We seem to forget
recession. The tour had only attracted 23
events, the fewest number since 1972. The
quickly. In the end, it was a player revolt that
Image: Ladies European Tour
Then there is the money. As we all know golf is
becoming all too familiar with. Last season
a cut throat profession. Miss the cut and take
home nothing. It really is as simple as that.
there were 18 events excluding the majors. It
has been tough, gradual and painful. Whilst
Then there is the gulf in prize money, not only
between the men and women but also
most tours experience the ups and downs of
events and sponsorships, the LET, in particular,
between tours. The LPGA is the where the
money is and they all know that. Yet, when
is stalling.
LPGA Q-School comes around there are LET
players who may not qualify due to the lack of
As a freelance writer, I can empathise with the
golf they have faced whilst on tour. It is not the
best situation for them as they aim to break
the next paycheck might come from is one
particular concern. Having spoken to players I
into the biggest tour for women’s golf.
have been told stories of budget travel and
room sharing just to save much-needed funds.
that the LPGA faced a similar situation in the
Then there is the schedule itself. It’s sporadic
nature often means that the players have to
days before Michael Whan. The LPGA was in
trouble back in 2009 following economic
resort to other means of financing themselves
such as pro-ams and corporate golf days.
Some even have a part time job that they have
to juggle in order to make ends meet. Plans
LPGA at this time was going backwards
and schedules are made to revolve around the
saw then Commissioner, Carolyn Bivens, head
to the exit.
the schedule that potentially won’t be filled.
N O M A D I C | 2 4

participate. After all, why would a sponsor stump
attention? How do fans even know about events
them? It will take all of us to make it thrive once
fact, we use it so much that the value of the
women. Young girls are picking up clubs inspired
events. There I see players taking selfies and
We often use the phrase “growing the game”, in
Since taking over as Commissioner, Whan has
increased events, prize money, sponsorship and
statement is beginning to lose its impact. Yet, the
television deals. The golfing media in the United
States has also been a massive part of the project.
game is actually growing and in particular, among
The formula has been perfect. This is why the LPGA
is the tour every female player wants to play on.
by the players they see. I often see it when I go to
signing autographs and in that moment, young
So yes, the LET can be saved there is no question
about that. However, the LET will need to take a
girls around the world have new role models to
aspire to be like. Little do they actually know that
long hard look at itself in order to prevent a player
revolt of the same scale that the LPGA endured.
with each blow such as a cancelled event, their
role models are feeling the pain.
With no tour, the players can not play. With no
players, there is no tour.
The tour is far too important to lose not only for the
future of golf but also for your daughters, nieces
So how can we ensure the future of the LET? The
solution is relatively simple but ultimately
and every young child who wants to be the next
Charley Hull. It’s never too late to save something
challenging. It involves everyone getting behind it.
From fans attending events, sponsors supporting it
as important as that now is it? I only hope that now
the lid has been lifted, it gives us all a chance to do
and an increased media presence. All have to
everything in our power to do just that.
up the cash if their products are not getting the
and players if media outlets don’t write about
more.
Image: Ladies European Tour
N O M A D I C | 2 4

well, in 1978 he was simply beginning his
Europe. Prior to Europe joining the Ryder Cup
However, for a young Ballesteros, it was also an
GOLF'S GREATEST HOLES:
10TH BRABAZON, THE
BELFRY
For many fans of our wonderful game, there is
Making history was something that Seve
one name that is synonymous with greatness.
would later go on to do, cementing his name
Here was a man that did not see the game the
amongst the greatest golfer who ever graced
way we all do. For him, the impossible was
the fairways. At the time he attempted his
possible and almost effortless. Playing it safe
now famous drive on the 10th at the Belfry, his
was never an option. For him, the golf club
name was well known within the golfing
was a magical wand producing shots that left
world, but he had yet to claim his first major.
us in awe. His name was Seve Ballesteros.
Whilst he would later go on to become a
household name that even non-golfers knew
Here was a man who possessed all of the
necessary traits for greatness. Flair, humour,
journey towards greatness.
nerve and power. Seve had it all. We can all
remember our favourite shots as if we were
The 1978 Hennessy Cup was a Match Play
there but one shot stays in the mind of
event between Great Britain and Continental
everyone who plays at the Belfry. Those who
approach the 10th at the Brabazon are already
party in 1979, it was seen as the ideal test
considering replicating that moment. As Oscar
before Great Britain and Ireland faced the
Wilde famously said: “Imitation is the sincerest
formidable United States one year later.
form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to
greatness.”
opportunity to alert the Ryder Cup captain of
his skill.
N O M A D I C | 2 4

attle. Seve was one up against the
easy. The edge of the green was slightly visible
mind. He took out his Persimmon-headed
driver. He was going to drive the ball to the
green. He later recalled that: “It’s a risky shot
circumstances, highly unadvisable. A fade was
seen, Sam Torrence also attempted the shot
sport. If he was the Captain then Ballesteros
Although he hit the green the pace took it
With Continental Europe now involved with
the Ryder Cup, he had the opportunity to
slightly off the green. Inspired by what he had
show the world what he could do.
and landed on the green.
Ballesteros was beating Nick Faldo in their
Torrence would later hole the winning putt as
singles match however, it was a close fought
Europe won the Ryder Cup for the first time
since 1957 ending the American dominance of
Englishman as they approached the 10th. The
par four that stood before them was far from
the biannual tournament. Tony Jacklin had
masterminded one of the greatest victories in
but the danger was everywhere. Protected by
water and high trees the sensible play would
was his lieutenant and talisman.
be to use a mid-iron to the fairway then a
Fewer holes in the world of golf are as
wedge over the water to the green.
significant as the 10th at the Belfry and even
fewer players are as iconic as Seve Ballesteros.
Despite the danger, Seve had only one shot in
Only one question remains. As you approach
the 10th at the Brabazon what will you do?
and before that day no one had attempted it.
Nobody had ever dared.”
There was a good reason as to why no one
ever dared. It was a tough shot and given the
required to miss the trees with enough height
to clear the water. Faldo looked on in disbelief
as his young competitor even contemplated it.
It was a clean strike as the ball flew through
the air. It had the height that Ballesteros was
hoping for. Rather than a fade, it was dead
straight towards the target. It missed the trees
and landed on the green only 10 foot away
from the flag. Cue the cheers from those
fortunate to witness quite possibly the
greatest shot they have ever witnessed.
Ballesteros made the birdie and with it, won
the hole. He would eventually win the match
2&1 with that shot proving to be the difference
between the two men on the back nine at the
Belfry.
The hole would once again test the world’s
best as it hosted the first of it’s four Ryder Cups
in 1985. Once again Seve approached the tee
with only one shot in mind and once again he
repeated what he did six years earlier.
N O M A D I C | 2 4

Golfhacker originally published this article in its sample edition. As Golfhacker
Magazine has grown in popularity we thought it would be best to republish it.
Mark Curtis is a Sport Physiotherapist with over 12 years experience who kindly
wrote this piece to help fellow golfers prevent getting lower back pain. It is
essential reading.
______________________________________________________________________
Whether a fellow hacker or a seasoned professional, you have more than likely
picked up one or two injuries on the golf course in your time. Lower back pain is
the number one injury sustained by golfers, accounting for up to 34.5% of all
injuries.
Several factors have been linked to causing lower back pain whilst playing golf,
including altered posture and swing faults, inadequate warm up, and poor body
conditioning (areas of weakness or stiffness). But how can you identify these
problems and reduce the risk of injury to your lower back?
Making sure your posture is correct when
addressing the ball is extremely important. The two
most common posture ‘faults’ that golfers adopt are
an excessive C- Posture and S Posture.
(C-Posture above, S-Posture right)
C-Posture is used to describe a posture that occurs
when your slump forward at the address and you
have a definitive roundness to your mid back. This
limits the amount of rotation available throughout
the trunk. The golfer, therefore, has to compensate
by excessive movement at the shoulders and legs to
generate force.
S-Posture is a postural characteristic that can be
caused by the player creating too much arch in the
lower back by sticking their tail bone out and lifting
their chest up. This excessive curvature in the lower
back is caused by tight lower back and hip flex or
muscles and weak abdominal muscles.

GolfPunk acting as an official event
With
for the European Senior Masters,
partner
were given a real treat at the Media
we
for this new event.
Launch
European Senior Masters is one of
The
new events commissioned by the
four
Senior Tour. The event will be
European
by Champions (UK) PLC who
organised
have plenty of experience in
already
top quality events such as the
hosting
Par 3 Championship at Nailcote
British
The event will be held at The Forest
Hall.
Arden and they are delighted to be
of
it. This new tournament is part of
hosting
Golfhacker does not work alone. In
fact, we have the pleasure of working
with the best in the business.
So when GolfPunk asked us to attend
the Media Launch of the European
Senior Masters, then who were we to
say no.
They told us, "Don't forget your golf
sticks!" Oh, don't worry about that
guys...we won't.
EUROPEAN
SENIOR
MASTERS: THE
NEW (OLDER)
KID ON THE
BLOCK
a three deal with the course.
B y N i c k K e v e r n
N O M A D I C | 2 4

Liston, Director of Golf at the Forest of
Fraser
said: “We’re excited to have a European
Arden,
event back at the Forest of Arden, it’s a
Tour
to the great course and facilities we
testament
here. The Farmfoods European Senior
have
will add to our long-standing golfing
Masters
having hosted the British Masters and
history,
Open from 1993-2005. We’re looking
English
to welcoming the European Senior
forward
and its stars in October and hope to see
Tour
of support for the event, from both young
lots
old fans.”
and
player hosting The European Senior
The
is Peter Baker. Baker already has an
Masters
pedigree with three European Tour
impressive
and a Ryder Cup appearance under
victories
belt. Now he enters the senior ranks with
his
European Senior Masters being his senior
the
said: “I’m excited to be hosting the very
Baker
European Senior Masters, it’ll be a great
first
to celebrate my debut on the European
way
Tour. The Forest of Arden is a great
Senior
with fantastic facilities, it’s going to be a
venue
weekend full of fun for fans of all ages.
brilliant
really excited to be playing competitive
I’m
against some friends and familiar faces
golf
part of the Media Launch event, GolfPunk
As
also able to sample the course. Taking on
was
final nine holes at the Forest of Arden we
the
given a taste of what the players at the
were
Senior Masters can expect. It's a
European
test that's for sure. Tough but beautiful.
tough
roam the course with freedom as the
Deer
attempt it hit the fairways. For those
golfers
as to whether the deer will be
concerned
at the event then you needn't worry.
roaming
will be treated like royalty away from the
They
for its duration.
course
I’ve battled with over the years.”
debut.
N O M A D I C | 2 4

this event comes down to the final hole then you
If
in for a real treat. A 211-yard par 3 over the water
are
enough to get anyone's heart racing. It certainly
is
me look at it with an element of fear. Now
made
a cheque for 50,000 Euros and the title on
imagine
line. It was the ultimate all or nothing hole. The
the
event will take place on the 19th-22nd October
The
is completely free for anyone to attend. A top
and
event with some of the best golfers
quality
more could you possibly want?
around...what
register for FREE tickets to the European Senior
To
please visit:
Masters,
https://europeanseniormasters.com/booking/eventticket/2017.
course was simply sublime.
N O M A D I C | 2 4

"Fancy playing in the British Par 3
Championship Nick?" GolfPunk asked
me.
Well, who am I to turn that chance
down. So I immediatley contacted Will
asking if he wanted to caddy for a
player?
"Awesome! Who is it?"
Then I told him that it was me.
"We have a lot of work to do mate, I
haven't picked up a club for a while
now"
The alarm sounded at 3.30 am. Although
I wanted nothing more than to throw the
alarm against the wall I couldn’t. My
TAKING PART
IN THE BRITISH
PAR 3
CHAMPIONSHIP!
WHAT COULD
GO WRONG?
Golfhacker, William Murfitt, is a
fellow
man. We had agreed to leave at
punctual
and I knew he was already on his
4.30am
Groggy with a lack of sleep, I
way.
downstairs to make a coffee. It
stumbled
a restless sleep as I knew what laid
was
of me. Today I was going to be
ahead
my competitive golfing debut at
making
British Par 3 Championship at
the
Hall.
Nailcote
GolfPunk asked me if I wanted to
When
in the event for an article, I didn’t
play
need to think about it. I first went to
even
British Par 3 last year and had fallen
the
love with the event. Celebrities,
in
legends of the game such
professionals,
as Ian Woosnam, and now, me. Before we
continue it would be wrong to assume
B y N i c k K e v e r n
described as average but in truth, I’m a
I’m a great golfer. I’d settle to be
hacker. Now I’m playing with the best.
Funny how life works out I suppose.
N O M A D I C | 2 4

ourselves. It was the perfect sanctuary. It was nice
7.10am. The nerves were beginning to show. The
However, we would have to wait for the rain to stop
Needless to say, Will was on time. He looked
excited but even at this ungodly hour, the nerves
were kicking in for me. Hopefully, they would settle
during the two-hour drive.
Arriving at Nailcote Hall we had about 20 minutes
for a quick warm up before our 7.10am tee time. I
met our playing partner, Ashley Mason, moments
before we began. As a young Euro Pro player from
Leicester who had qualified for this event, I
wondered if he was as nervous as me? He didn’t
look it. Cool and composed he nailed his first tee
shot onto the green. It was a good thing he did as I
went right missed the target. Thankfully there
weren’t many who saw it. The gates hadn’t even
opened yet.
The rain was certainly getting heavy and it was
beginning to show on the greens. Some were
becoming waterlogged. By the time we finished
the fifth hole, the hooter had sounded. Two bogeys,
two pars and an awful six. It wasn’t an awful start.
and the groundsman to do their magic before any
play could resume.
Sitting and waiting, that was all we could we do
until the announcement to play came. Rather than
sitting around though we thought it would give
the chance to actually do some work. So we
decided to interview our pro, Ashley Mason. It was
hard not to like him, we ventured to the clubhouse
away from the others and had the place to
to chat away with him, his caddy and family. It’s
never easy starting your career in the cut-throat
world of golf. There is no denying his ambition and
the backing that he has in the form of his parents
is priceless. You can see how proud they are and
just how committed he is. Qualifying for this event
can be difficult enough, now the news came that
the first day would be reduced to nine holes. All
the good work Ashley and I had done had been
washed away.
Arriving back on the tee at 1.10pm it had already
felt like a long day. With the crowds growing it felt
like a different event to the one we started at
first shot was a stinker further right. I showed Will
my hand straight after.
N O M A D I C | 2 4

Ashley, on the other hand, was a man on fire. Whilst I continued to enjoy the experience, eventually making
“Look at that mate! I can’t stop it shaking” I said as the nerves had clearly got to me.
some good shots, Ashley was posting a great score. By the end of the day, we found out that we would be in
the penultimate group for the final round.
After the round, I told Ashley: “I promise I’ll be better tomorrow mate.”
“Don’t worry about it mate, just enjoy it.” He replied in a calm manner.
He was right, we had a laugh and we are contending. He ended the day in fourth position and as a team, we
were in the mid table. However, for him it is serious. This is his job and there are 50,000 Euros for the winner.
Tomorrow is massive for Ashley, I have to remember that. Opportunities like this don’t come much bigger for
a young pro aiming to make his mark on the game. All eyes will be on him tomorrow, Sky Sports are even
sniffing for an interview with him. In terms of potential sponsorships, it is a big deal. I was proud to be part of
his team. I did some practice, I liked him and I didn’t want to let him down.
Having a later tee time is both a blessing and curse. A well needed lay in meant I was refreshed but it came
with some pressure. We were in the contending groups for the championship and the crowds would be so
much bigger than the previous day. On the plus side, I now knew what to expect. I was mainly thinking
about Ashley, I hope he is ready for this. When we met, I knew the answer. He was ready.
N O M A D I C | 2 4

line, I even made birdie. Boom! It was my highlight and no
Whilst I had a shocking first three holes, Ashley had
already made a push for the championship. A birdie on
the first was a great start for him. It was time for me to
actually prove my worth on the fourth hole. My wedge
landed on the green. With Will’s guidance on the putting
one will take that away from me.
Ashley was putting together a great round. Three birdies
and no dropped shots had seen him tie for the lead. All of
a sudden, we were part of the story and it felt great. Whilst
I was busy staring at leaderboards, Ashley kept his focus.
Then we got to the 16th. My shot hit the water. Ashley was
on the green but it was a tough one. A three putt saw
Ashley go back into second.
He recovered with two pars on the final two holes. Either
way you look at it, it was a great round. Richard O’Hanlon
held his nerve on the final hole to birdie and win the
event by two shots. As for the team event, well we finished
in a tie for 25th out of 60. Not too shabby.
I loved every second, from the shanks, missed chips, to the moments where I proved that I can actually play
this crazy game. But that was not the highlight. For me, the highlight was playing alongside Ashley Mason.
What a guy and what a player. One day he will make his way onto the European Tour I have no doubt about
that. When he does, I’ll bore my family and friends about the time I was his team mate.
N O M A D I C | 2 4

Image: Champions PLC
48 Hours in Wiltshire:
Golf's hidden gem
I have a confession to make. In all my of travels
around the UK, I have never been to Wiltshire before.
For whatever reason, it has just never crossed my
mind. It was only when trying to find somewhere new
to explore that the thought occurred.
It was a long journey from Golfhacker HQ and I arrived
at my first port of call at Kingsdown Golf Club just
about making my tee time. I embarked to tackle the
course complete with no practice. It showed as I drove
the ball to the right. However, I quickly found my feet
on this lovely course. High up near the town of Bath,
Kingsdown Golf Club is a hidden gem.
“The fairways are great and drain quickly, you can play
here all year round,” a member told me as another
drive strayed to the right. Fast and firm in the summer
it was surely a stern test.
“Whilst you are here, you have to check out the 17th” I
was told.
I’m glad I did. Here, a little piece of Augusta awaits for
you. Tree lined, short but beautiful.
"I'M GLAD I DID. HERE, A LITTLE
PIECE OF AUGUSTA AWAITS FOR
YOU. TREE LINED, SHORT BUT
BEAUTIFUL."
This really is a course with something for everyone.
Friendly, welcoming and complete with a great mix of
players all with golf at their heart. If I ever needed an
introduction to Wiltshire hospitality then this was the
perfect start.
With the long journey and a nice round at a wonderful
course under my belt, food was needed. Thankfully my
hotel for the night, the Holiday Inn Salisbury-
Stonehenge had my back. Minted lamb kebabs served
on Couscous was delicious and I even managed to
reclaim some of my youth with a banana split.
Seeing that I was a short drive away from Stonehenge
it would be criminal for me not to actually check it
out.

19
I was far from alone. Well over a million people visit the site every year. Now it was my time to see it. The visitor centre
provides you with a small exhibition providing you exactly why the circle of rocks is what is and why it is. I don’t wish to spoil
it completely for you.
It can be a bit of a walk to Stonehenge from the Visitor Centre. Thankfully English Heritage provides a shuttle bus to and from
the site. I could have walked but with a further two rounds of golf to play, I thought I’d conserve my energy.
Stonehenge was stunning and the audio tour is a must to get the full experience. Young and old took their selfies with famous
rocks and were enjoying their time at this historic landmark. For me though, time was short. I had to get to Tidworth Garrison
Golf Club.
There is nothing I love more than seeing a traditional starter’s hut at a golf course. It is the kind of thing that fills me joy. For me,
it gives you an indication of what to expect straight away. The first hole was inviting you to smash your drive as far as you could. I
did just that. Walking away with a par on the first hole I thought that this course could be a straightforward one.
How wrong was I as the course opened itself up to me? The fourth hole was a long par four but don’t let that fool you. The
fairway slopes to the right. Anything less than perfect means you will have a difficult scramble for par. The seventh presents you
with a blind tee shot onto a down sloping fairway. With courage, you can really take this beast on. However, like the cowardly
lion, I opted for safety.
It was a course with an exciting mixture of holes allowing you to pick the shots you felt comfortable with. To put it mildly, I loved
it. For those that love a Harry Colt designed course, you'll love it too!

19
However, time was against me as I had yet another round to play. West Wilts Golf Club was the next to welcome and this time
I had some company for my round. I was guided by a member who took me straight to the 11th hole.
With only limited time I was able to sample the best of this course. Whilst it had a links feel to it there was no doubting both
the challenge and its beauty. For those that love a good view then this is surely the place to come.
The ever changing winds makes this course a fair challenge. One false move and there is trouble. This is a course that requires
the best course management you can muster.
“Every time I play here it is different”, my playing partner said. I’m not surprised. This course was something special. I could
easily come here 100 times and never leave with the same score. That is the beauty of the game. To think about what you
doing, play the conditions and the course and enjoy it. That’s exactly what I did. For those who like a challenge, this is the
course for you.
Driving home always allows you reflect on what you have just experienced. For me, I need to go back to Wiltshire soon and
play these courses again because a little bit of my heart is still there.
If you fancy taking a trip to Wiltshire to follow in our footsteps
and want more information simply click the link below:
https://www.visitwiltshire.co.uk/things-to-do/activities/golf
We stayed at the Holiday Inn Salisbury-Stonehenge. However,
there is plenty of accommodation. Find out more here:
https://www.visitwiltshire.co.uk/accommodation/hotels
For more information about Stonehenge click below:
https://www.visitwiltshire.co.uk/things-to-do/stonehengep133703
http://www.kingsdowngolfclub.co.uk/
http://www.tidworthgolfclub.co.uk/
http://www.westwiltsgolfclub.co.uk/

DRIVER FOR
SHOW, PUTTER
FOR DOUGH
There is an old saying in golf. “Driver for show,
Here is another dilemma for you to think about.
putter for dough.” There is a good reason for
Have you ever thought if the grip on your putter
that. The putter is the most used club in your
is actually the right for you? Usually, we buy our
bag and the one that makes all of the
putter and only use the grip that came with it.
difference when it comes to lowering your
However, that grip might be costing you shots
score. However, if we are honest, how much
on the course and acts as the difference
thought do you really give your putter? Chances
between winning and losing.
are you turn up to the course, have about five
minutes of putting practice and then hit your
With that in mind, we have looked at some
first drive. You may have spent some time on
putting grips that you might want to consider
the range before that where you hit your driver
in order to help you lower your score. Perhaps
more than you spent with your putter.
it’s time to treat yourself and your putter to
something new in order to lower those
handicaps.
Flat Cat
The Flat Cat is arriving in the UK and it is easy to see
why people are getting excited. It is currently being
used by Justin Rose who has seen an improvement
in his putting that took him into contention at the
Masters.
The Flat Cat is available in five sizes from slim to “big
boy” so it covers all areas for all golfers. The key to
the Flat Cat is its square face which allows you to
square your hands on the grip. This allows you to
square your shoulders and have a consistent stroke.
The square face also means that you are more
accurate on your follow through.
£29.95 (Free Delivery)
www.adoregolfgrips.com

ProPutt ERGO
For those that like the oversized putting grip
similar to SuperStroke there is this great
alternative. The ProPutt ERGO weighs just 49g
making it lighter than the SuperStroke. It is
designed to keep your hands “quiet” during your
putting stroke whilst also removing wrist
twitches. Those twitches are the difference
between a successful putt and a miss. Because
it is lighter than it’s competitor, it gives a greater
sense of control and feel.
This UK based company is certainly producing a
quality product at a great price. You can also
get your ProPutt Ergo in a variety of colours to
give your putter the look it deserves.
£18.95 (Free Delivery)
www.proputt.co.uk
Garsen G-Pro EDGE
The oversized putter is not for everyone so here
is an alternative for those who like a smaller
grip. It might be a mid-sized grip but has all the
qualities of the bigger boys. It weighs 73
grammes which is similar to the SuperStroke.
The first thing you will notice is just how firm
the grip is. It also has a semi tacky feel designed
to keep your hands firmly in place.
Unlike a traditional putter grip, the G-Pro Edge
places your hands in a position so the palms
face each other and the wrists are in a neutral
position. It turns your elbows into your body and
sets your shoulders back. This relieves arm and
shoulder tension, inhibits wrist action, which
takes “the hands out of the putting” and
promotes shoulder rotation, creating a solid
putting stroke, which will give you a one-piece
feel, leading to a more consistent stroke.
£13.95 (Free Delivery)
www.adoregolfgrips.com
Issue 27 | 234

NOW YOU CAN PRACTICE
YOUR PUTTING
ANYWHERE!
The luxury of your home is a great place to practice your putting. For those old enough to remember
those home putting mats that lived in your attic, you'll be happy to know to things have changed. Now
there are some more compact putting devices out there that can fit in your bag. You can even take them
in your garden or anywhere else you can think of. There is no excuse not to get that practice in.
Rite-Line Smart Target
A flat A4 sized mat that is thin. A hole...but it's
not a hole. It looks like any regular golf hole yet
flat with a raised sticky pad that captures the
ball. The slightest touch of the ball to the pad
and the ball is trapped. Of course, if you miss
the putt the ball will continue to roll. The pad
itself is a "special nanotechnology polymer
sticky pad. As someone who possesses little
scientific knowledge, I have no idea what that
means but whatever it is...it works. As I was
putting in my living room the ball stuck
beautifully each time I hit the target. Removal
of the ball from the pad was also as easy as pie.
It may just look like a flat mat with a sticky pad
and a visual hole but the truth is that it is so
much more than just that. As a putting device it
can be taken anywhere...even outside on a
putting green or short grass in your garden.
www.riteline.co.uk
Price: £7.50

Puttout: Pressure Putt Trainer
The perfect putt is the aim and the ball will only
stay in the "microtarget" if the direction and speed
Be warned, the PuttOut is highly addictive. The
are perfect.
simplicity of its design is there for all to see but do
This is the part that becomes really addictive. Near
not be fooled. The genius of the product lays in its
ability to get you hooked. With PuttOut, putting is
misses encourages you to search for perfection
even more. Needless to say here at Golfhacker, we
a joy.
were hooked.
Small enough to fit in your bag you can take it
It is ideas like this that make putting less of a
anywhere. However, it is in the luxury of you own
home where it can become really addictive.
chore. Considering that you use your putter
around 40% of the time on your average round of
Aiming at the white simulated hole you have
options. You can use it as a ball returner as your
golf, this will certainly encourage you to practice
more.
ball travels up the back slope and comes back to
you. When the ball returns then, congratulations, it
was a good putt. If it doesn't then you would have
We have also heard it on the grapevine that
PuttOut are putting the finishing touches to a
lipped out of the cup.
putting mat to compliment this wonderful device.
If you thought that was clever then there is more.
Watch this space.
The backslope has a smaller hole called a
"microtarget". If your ball hits the "mircotarget" and
£19.99
http://puttout.golf/
stays trapped, then you have just completed the
perfect putt.
Issue 27 | 234

to improve your putting? Well, we caught up with Lee Slattery from the European Tour at the
Looking
Par 3 Championship who has some sound advice and tips to help you out.
British
PUTTING MASTERCLASS
FROM EUROPEAN TOUR
PRO, LEE SLATTERY
N O M A D I C | 2 4

Image: Champions PLC
Meet the "Twisted Frog"
DivA Pro
Sometimes a great product just falls into your lap.
Whenever you go to a media day or play in a Pro-Am,
you get a nice goody bag. With Twisted Frog being the
official pitch-mark repair tool of the British Par 3
Championship, we were all lucky enough to have one
in our bags.
I'm glad they did as I left my pitch-mark tool at home.
If anything it gave the chance to give it a proper
review as I played at Nailcote Hall.
There are lots to love about the nifty tool. For a start
the push button opening allows the repairer to open
like a switchblade. Personally, I loved this as you
could close it up to store safely in your pocket. It also
made you feel pretty cool in the process.
Once you've impressed your friends with this it is also
important to remember to repair those pitch-marks.
The patented 3-prong design actively encourages the
golfer to use the push repair technique advocated by
greenkeepers all over the world.
The design allowed me to repair the marks a lot
quicker and the blades cut through the green with
ease.
"THERE ARE LOTS TO LOVE
ABOUT THE NIFTY TOOL. FOR A
START THE PUSH BUTTON
OPENING ALLOWS THE REPAIRER
OPEN LIKE A SWITCHBLADE."
There was no denying that the DivA did exactly what
it was designed to do but it certainly does it style.
This is a top quality product indeed. Looks great, feels
great and it will certainly get your friends talking.
Repairing a pitch-mark no longer need to feel a chore
with this by your side.
Now you can feel like a DivA on the greens. I know I
certainly did as I was repairing my marks around
Nailcote Hall.
Price £12
http://www.twistedfrog.co.uk/product/diva-pro/