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G H E T T O G O L F : M O R E T H A N Y O U R A V E R A G E C R A Z Y G O L F
$ 9 7 ?
E Q U I P M E N T : C A N Y O U R E A L L Y G E T T H R E E W E D G E S F O R
G O L F H A C K E R
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
I N T E R V I E W : D O M I N I C H O L L A N D : S T A N D - U P , G O L F E R
A N D S P I D E R - M A N ' S D A D
S U Z A N N
P E T T E R S E N
W H Y O L S O I S T H E I D E A L P L A C E T O P L A N
Y O U R N E X T G O L F T R I P

CONTENTS
Editor's Notes
Interview: Dominic
Holland: Stand-Up,
golfer and being
Spider-Man's Dad
Feature: This
ain't Crazy Golf...This
is Ghetto Golf!
Feature: Why the PGA
Tour's new and
improved war on drugs
must work
Equipment: From
Bombtech to Mizuno
Golfhacker has you
covered for all the
latest gear
Fashion: Ted Baker and
G/Fore return with new
collections so you can
grace the fairways in
style
Travel: Oslo Special:
Come and join
Golfhacker and see the
wonders of Suzann
Pettersen's hometown.
GOLFHACKER
www.golfhacker.org

around. From reviews, features and travel...we have all the
Heady, Cyrus
Azalea, Pure Sports
Norway, Suzann
GOLFHACKER
MAGAZINE
www.golfhacker.org
@Golfhacker_mag
@golfhacker1
WELCOME TO GOLFHACKER.
BIGGER AND BETTER THAN
EVER BEFORE!
EDITORIAL
NICK KEVERN
Editor
CONTRIBUTORS
Nick Kevern, William
Murfitt, Lily Hymes,
Robert Cross, Helen
For 2018, we decided to expand our horizons further. The 28-
Saedi, James Lambdon,
page magazine is now a thing of the past as we intend to
become a bigger and better golf magazine.
Champions PLC, Medi8,
Not only have spent the winter attracting some pretty
WITH THANKS TO:
impressive partnerships but we have also expanded our team
of writers, all with the aim to bring you the best golf content
Dominic Holland, Visit
bases covered.
Pettersen, BigMax,
Ghetto Golf,
Findagolfbreak.com,
Our new travel writer, Lily Hymes, ventured to Norway to see
what Suzann Pettersen's hometown has to offer. Not only is
Stampyourballs.com,
the golf amazing but the city is also rich in culture.
Twisted Frog
William Murfitt tests out the new Bombtech wedges and asks
whether or not they are great value for money. He also asks if
you can really get three wedges for $97?
We hope you enjoy our new expanded edition and if you
do...go and tell your friends.
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N I C K K E V E R N
Editor-In-Chief

The Big Interview
D O M I N I C H O L L A N D :
S T A N D U P
C O M E D I A N , G O L F E R
A N D S P I D E R M A N ' S
D A D
“ I T ’ S I N C R E D I B L E , H E ’ S O N L Y
2 1 A N D H E ' S B E E N S O W E L L
R E C E I V E D , H I S D R E A M I S
C O N T I N U I N G A N D S O I S M I N E
B E C A U S E I ’ M L O V I N G
W A T C H I N G I T . ”
To many, Dominic Holland is best known as
Playing off 16, Dominic makes regular
a stand-up comedian who has graced the
appearances at events such as the British
stages of the Comedy Store and the
Par 3 Championship and other Pro-Ams. We
Edinburgh fringe festival. Others might have
caught up with Dominic to talk about his
seen him as a regular guest on Channel 5’s
love of golf, his book “Open Links” and of
The Wright Stuff or as a corporate speaker
course, his new role of Spider-Man’s dad.
and Master of Ceremonies. More recently
though, Dominic is now better known as
Golfhacker: We have to start with your book
Spider-Man’s dad since his son, Tom
“Open Links”, for those that haven’t read it,
Holland joined the Marvel universe
what is it about?
appearing in Spider-Man: Homecoming.
What some might not know is that Dominic
Dominic Holland: “It’s a novel I wrote set at
also has a love of golf.
Muirfield Village during the Open about a
journeyman golfer who’s qualified for the
Open. I’m very seduced by the idea that all

The Big Interview
close the Holland’s heart with 100% of the
these professional golfers can hit
magnificent shots and they can all shoot 65,
book's proceeds going to the charity.
but they can’t do it when it counts. It's in
Dominic Holland: “I like the idea that
their head and I thought wouldn’t it be
wonderful if all those shots conspired one
somewhere, someday, all the money raised,
we don’t know who but we can save a life. If
day in one round. I wanted it to be a
you enjoy reading a book and save a life
magical book and a fairytale book. That’s
what happens to Ricky in the book.”
then that’s a nice thing.”
Golfhacker: Of course we need to talk about
Dominic wrote the novel in order to raise
money for the Anthony Nolan Trust. The
your son because a lot has happened to him
recently.
Trust educates, supports and helps those
who have blood cancer. It’s a charity very
Dominic Holland: “You mean Sam, my 18-
year-old boy?”
Golfhacker: I was thinking more the other
one?
Dominic Holland: “Oh you mean Tom! Why
does everyone want to talk about Tom?
What is it about Tom?”
Golfhacker: Well...he is SpiderMan.
Dominic Holland: “My oldest son is Tom
Holland and he plays SpiderMan in the new
movies and I don’t know where to start with
explaining how I feel because I can’t explain
it. When someone wins a massive golf
tournament they’ll say “It hasn’t sunk in yet.”
That always used to frustrate me. “What do
you mean it hasn’t sunk in yet?” But I kind of
get it now because I have to remind myself
sometimes that my little boy is SpiderMan.”
Golfhacker: It’s awesome isn’t it?
Dominic Holland: “It’s incredible, he’s only 21
and he's been so well received, his dream is

S U Z A
E U R

continuing and so is mine because I’m loving
watching it.”
Golfhacker: You are a man who loves his golf, Tom
loves it too. Did you ever want Tom to go pro?
Dominic Holland: “I love my Golf, It’s my sport. In
fact, Tom, when he was a little boy growing up all I
really wanted him to do was to play scratch golf.
Not to be a professional but to just have a different
adulthood to me. He hits it like a two and putts
like a 24 so comes in about a 12. I said to Tom, “As
soon as you get your short game sorted out you’ll
be really low.” So these Pro-Ams that want
celebrities, because you’re SpiderMan you’ll be
playing pebble beach mate with Rory.”
It’s some sound advice from father to son. Tom
Holland, if you are reading this, it’s a good idea to
listen to what your dad is saying. Start working on
that short game before you head to Pebble Beach.
To get your copy of “Open Links” and save a life in
the process simply click the cover below where
you will sent to the Anthony Nolan Trust's page.

Like father, Like son
B E I N G A G O L F D A D
D O M I N I C H O L L A N D I S N O T
A L O N E I N R A I S I N G H I S S O N T O
B E C O M E A G O L F F A N A T I C .
R O B E R T C R O S S I S D O I N G T H E
S A M E W I T H H I S S O N . H E I S
M O R E T H A N H A P P Y T O T E L L
T H E W O R L D A B O U T W H A T L I F E
I S L I K E B E I N G A G O L F D A D .
Words: Robert Cross
If you have kids who play sports then you
Now aged 8 (nearly 9) and about to make
will understand the struggle. Being a golf
the move from Lower School to Middle
dad, and just how hard it really is (or I’m
School, we have the added pressure of
finding it) to make the best decisions for
choosing the right school, but also due to
your kids so they can learn to love a game
my own selfishness the right golf club.
you do and share lots of memories and
experiences together.
I taught him loosely for the first 5 years of his
life, but knowing how important it is to get a
I have a son. His name is Dexter and he has
good base with the fundamentals in place;
played golf since he could walk, well
in January 2016 I handed over that baton to
actually a bit before then. I remember the
the best junior coach around – Sam Smith at
first time I took him to the practice area of
The Bedford Golf Club. Over 65 kids turn up
my club with right-handed plastic clubs,
each weekend under his enthusiastic and
which he flipped over because he’s left-
guided coaching.
handed. The video I have, which is
frequently watched, always brings a smile to
If you haven’t heard of Sam, then you need
my face. He runs to the ball, points and then
to. If you have kids who want to play golf
whacks it.
(and live in the Bedfordshire area) take them
to Sam.

You will be amazed at how much fun golf
can be and how much the kids love to learn
with him, without even realising it!
One thing stuck in my mind chatting to
Sam, “I want to give the kids life skills, and
golf is great for personal development.”
He is 100% right, golf teaches you manners
and etiquette but also the ability to talk to
people, to make conversation. Something
Sam equates to a life skill. If his kids play
golf at any level in the future, it’s a win.
Over the past two years, Dexter has
continued to improve, but I’m never really
sure if he’s enjoying it. Golf is such a tough
sport with so many movements and variants
that for an 8-year-old kid, it can become a
bit of a slog.
It turns out that Dexter is pretty good; he
has inherited my somewhat natural hand-
eye coordination. Armed with that ability
and some superb coaching – last season in
2017, he embarked on an introduction to
competitive golf, playing on the Shires Tour
and in a Bedfordshire Schools competitions.
He also inherited my super competitive
nature and loves winning (and also hates
losing!), which leads to some seriously
frustrating times both on the course and at
home.
An example of these conversations;
1st Hole: -“8 is rubbish!” “Yeah, but you were
on the green for 3 and didn’t hit your putts
hard enough, next time hit them a bit
harder.”
“Stop shouting at me, you’re telling me off!”
“You’re upset because of your score, and I’m
trying to explain why”
“Stop telling me off!”

4th Hole: - Bunkered off the tee, then a great
bunker shot, but a tough uphill putt from
40ft, leaves it 15ft short. Again, spectators
walking past watch as they see an 8-year-old
hole out from 15ft!! Smiles and happiness
move to the 5th tee.
I struggle greatly with what is the right thing
for him. If any advice is given it’s deemed to
be shouting or telling off. If left to his own
space, a potential walk-off crying with a
poor score.
All kids are different, over time things will
improve and he’ll figure out what is best,
but having a really competitive kid playing
one of the hardest sports for all ages and
levels is a serious challenge as a parent.
He was delighted; I was delighted because
I don’t want a pension fund, or the next Rory
all that frustration was appeased. It wasn’t a
1st place, but it was a prize.
McIlroy, I want my son to have the
opportunity to play golf and enjoy it as
much as I do. So we can spend time
2018 will (if he wants to) see another few
rounds of competitive golf, lots more
together having fun! At the moment this
seems a long way off, and I really want him
evening and weekend rounds of fun and
frustration, with a little bit of “home”
to continue to learn and develop, but I don’t
want to affect or change his outlook on the
practice thrown in.
game.
The struggles will continue, I’m prepared for
I really try to make it fun, with no pressure
them. I mentioned that I never really
thought golf was something he loved and
and to just go and play. He is the one who
am very aware that I don’t want to scare him
wants to write the scores down, beat his last
one. Balance is the key.
away. At school, one of their tasks was to
write about, “If you could do anything for
one day, what would it be an why?”
In 2017, he played in a total of four
competitive rounds and despite the initial
I picked up his school book and his answer
nerves and the unknown, I’m really proud of
shocked me.
how he handled himself. Performance is
irrelevant to me, but to him where he
finishes is everything.
“If I could do anything for one day, I would
have a golf lesson with Rory McIlroy and
In July, he represented his school at
Justin Rose”
Bedfordshire County Rookie Schools event,
“Because I love golf.”
and a 6th place finish saw a prize awarded.

It's all in the mind
W H Y T H I N K I N G
P O S I T I V E L Y M A Y
N O T B E H E L P I N G
Y O U R G O L F G A M E
" G O L F I S A G A M E O F I N C H E S .
T H E M O S T I M P O R T A N T A R E T H E
S I X I N C H E S B E T W E E N Y O U R
E A R S . "
A R N O L D P A L M E R
Words: James Lambdon
Approaching the ball, you knew you
Three shots ago, it felt effortless…
wouldn’t like the lie (a downslope), spending
Having appreciated one of the good views
(what felt like) an age finding the yardage
on this course, you felt relaxed standing
and selecting the club, you somehow rush
over your approach shot. You picked a
into this approach shot, trying to avoid
target, saw the shot shape (slight draw over
thinking about the trap short right of the
the right ridge), completed your pre-shot
green, and, surprise, surprise…the ball finds
its way into the bunker you tried so hard to
routine, took aim (thinking of the target),
executed your swing (with a clear swing
avoid… But you ‘knew’ it would go in there,
thought) and watched the ball roll across
right?
the green to settle clear to the pin.
Many golfers (just like you) experience
Three shots later, it’s a totally different
similar thinking patterns, from shot to shot,
story.
during a round, or even across the course of

"Golf is full of variety, and given
that no two shots experienced are
the same, there is a clear need to
possess an ability to adapt to each
situation presented."

a season. If was to push you to highlight the
adapt. By adopting either a positive or
negative mindset (something that many
main difference above, you would likely note
that the first situation is positive, leading to
golfers do), you encourage a black and
white, all or nothing, appraisal of
the intended outcome, whereas the second
starts negatively, focuses on avoidance, and
performance. You limit your ability to adapt.
produces a poor shot. Clearly, I’m trying to
Doing so can cause you to question your
ability, enjoyment, or love for the game. To
highlight that positive thinking is far better
for your golf game, than negative, right?
choose your approach as either positive or
negative is, fundamentally, unhelpful.
In a word, no, and if that is the message you
have taken so far, then I challenge you to
So, rather than focusing on being positive, or
reconsider. Because if you don’t you may
trying to avoid being negative, you are
better served to pay attention to ‘helpful’ or
well be encouraging, developing, or refining
a thinking process that is limiting your
‘unhelpful’ thoughts, as this thinking pattern
can underpin what you want to do. Our
ability to adapt your mindset out on the
course.
brain is built and structured in such a way
that means you are better served whilst
Golf is full of variety, and given that no two
playing to ‘activate’ helpful thoughts by
consciously choosing to focus on aspect of
shots experienced are the same, there is a
clear need to possess an ability to adapt to
your game that support your ability to
perform the shot that you intend to.
each situation presented. Be it our swing,
our approach, or our mindset, we must

In the interest of providing you with a
As with many parts of the game. This is a
skill. It will only get better with practice. So,
‘takeaway’ from this article, read the first
example again and note down specific
if you are unsure of what is helpful to think
of, discuss it with your PGA Professional, or
thoughts that you would find helpful to
support you executing a desired shot. Take
an accredited Sport Psychologist – it is a skill
worth developing and one that will help you
this list, breakdown this down into bite-size
chunks, and practice using these in your
to play better golf!
pre-shot routine. Our mindset, acts like a
muscle, it is developed by repetition. By
What to know more? Look out for future golf
psychology articles exploring the process of
spending time to develop helpful thinking,
you are more likely to adapt your mindset to
thinking clearly in future months.
the situation.
About The Golf Psych
Practice thinking ‘helpfully’ whilst you are
on the range, around the practice green, or
James Lambdon is a Chartered Sport
Psychologist, registered with the HCPC, who
out on the course. To achieve this, try a
range of different approaches to encourage
helps golfers to think clearly before, during,
and after a round. For further information,
yourself to do so. Write notes on a scorecard,
keep a small notebook in your golf bag, stick
visit www.thegolfpsych.co.uk, email
James@thegolfpsych.co.uk or follow
a couple of keywords to a water bottle. The
key here is to go provide reminders of
@The_Golf_Psych on twitter.
‘helpful’ thoughts or thinking patterns that
support your best golf game.

G H E T T O G O L F \ \ L I V E R P O O L

then, we were kids and for a long the world
Liverpool, you very quickly get a sense of
This isn't crazy
golf...
This is Ghetto
Golf!
"The fifth hole was completely
different to anything I have ever
seen. The aim was to get the ball
into the toilet. Now that was
somewhere I never thought I’d
retrieve my golf ball from."
We all remember our times playing crazy
Now crazy golf has become urbanised. Far
golf whilst on holiday. Usually, the obstacle
away from the seaside resorts, we have
was an old wooden windmill that had seen
seen them pop up in places like London,
better days. For many of us, it was
Birmingham and Manchester. From
moments like these that helped us pick up
Dinosaur themed courses to things like
a club for the first time and for some, it was
Ghetto Golf in Liverpool. However, Ghetto
these moments that made us take the
Golf is not for the kids. This one is purely for
game one stage further. Whatever the
the adults with its imposing bar and
outcome, we all had fun and took away
graffiti-based art.
these precious memories. However, back
Situated in the Cains Brewery Village in
of crazy golf has become something
nostalgic. That was until things changed.
what Ghetto Golf is all about.

time. It’s while waiting that you can
here. You are here to have fun
Instead, the weekend is here and the
way. The first hole is in a caravan, the
Loud urban music greets you as you
head to the bar to wait for your tee
fully take it all in. The walls are full of
graffiti art including a lovable minion
swiftly extending his middle finger. It
pretty much sums up the attitude
however you intend to do it. Take
your beers around the course and
enjoy yourselves.
Everywhere I look I see people doing
just that. Selfies, laughter and all in
your far from your usual golfing attire.
revellers are dressed for a night on
the tiles. From young students
enjoying a round before heading out
for some snakebite, to couples on
their first dates. We even bumped
into hip OAPS refusing to let their age
prevent them from having a laugh. If
this is the future of crazy golf, then
count me in.
This 18 hole course should take about
an hour to complete with each hole
being completely unique in it own
second has a library feel to it and the
third takes you to a skate park slope.
Yet it was the fifth hole that was
completely different to anything I
have ever seen. The aim was to get
the ball into the toilet. Now that was
somewhere I never thought I’d
retrieve my golf ball from.
I may have seen golf’s finest perform
and had the pleasure to interview
many but I would give my right arm
to see them at a place like this. To see
them enjoying themselves rather
than have their game faces on.

G H E T T O G O L F \ \ L I V E R P O O L

G H E T T O G O L F \ \ L I V E R P O O L

looks!” The scorecard reflected that but really
important. I don’t think I have enjoyed a round
properly? My guess is not many. Perhaps there
of energy. Perhaps golf itself should start
As we approached the arcade machine phase
of the course the artwork perfectly blended
taking a hard look at itself to see if there are
lessons that can be learnt. After all, we talk
Sonic the Hedgehog and Space Invaders to
create a pinball hole. Along each hole, I
continuously about attracting younger players
from both sexes. Ghetto Golf doesn’t have that
thought to myself, “This is harder than it
problem at all. That is why it should be
the idea of keeping score wasn’t what was
embraced by the golfing community. It may
not golf as we know it, but it is still golf and if
of golf like this in a long time. If anything, it
some of the those we played alongside were
to try a traditional golf course in the future,
took me back to those days playing crazy golf
then it will be the likes of Ghetto Golf that
on holiday. I may have entered as an adult but
I found my inner child once again...only
helped in growing the game.
slightly more inebriated.
Ghetto Golf
Cains Brewery Village
It was only on the way home that the thinking
fully began. Whilst everyone had fun, how
Liverpool.
£10 for 18 holes.
many would consider actually playing golf
is a valid reason for this. Golf is often seen as a
boring game yet Ghetto Golf was the
complete opposite. It was fun, vibrate and full

program. There were, of course, plenty of
Howman, WADA’s director general, highlighted
Special Report
W H Y T H E P G A
T O U R ' S N E W A N D
I M P R O V E D W A R O N
D R U G S M U S T W O R K
“ I C A N O N L Y E N C O U R A G E T H E P G A T O U R
T O F O L L O W A N D F I N A L L Y A C C E P T T H E
W A D A C O D E A N D T O B E C O M P L I A N T W I T H
T H I S S O Y O U H A V E A H A R M O N I Z E D A N T I -
D O P I N G R E G I M E T H E R E F O R A L L T H E
G O L F P L A Y E R S A N D Y O U H A V E A . . . L E V E L
P L A Y I N G F I E L D F O R A L L G O L F E R S , ”
T H O M A S B A C H . P R E S I D E N T O F T H E
I N T E R N A T I O N A L O L Y M P I C C O M M I T T E E .
2 0 1 5 .
The desire to become part of sports largest
the issues of doping within the sport. David
showcase at the Rio Olympic Games in 2016
the issues.
meant that a culture within Golf was about
to be seriously challenged. Thomas Bach
certainly didn’t mince his words when he
“There are gaps in the program, and that
was in St. Andrews for the Open
means someone might not be tested or might
Championship in 2015. With Golf’s inclusion
not be detected,” said Howman. “If you’re not
smart, you’re not going to catch the cheats.”
within the Olympics confirmed, he was
critical of the of the PGA Tour’s anti-doping
The message was clear. If Golf wants to
reasons for this.
become part of the Olympic movement then
an update of the tour’s anti-doping policy must
Prior to Olympics, WADA (World Anti
be compliant with that of WADA. The European
Doping Agency) remained highly skeptical
Tour had already done so by using WADA rules
about the PGA Tour and how they handle
and regulations, enforcing their banned

such, it has to get in line with the other
game. Others have also highlighted the
green. Prescribed to those who suffer from
blockers,' Norman claimed in in 2012. 'It
ADHD. It is a drug that can increase
Special Report
'In my day, lots of guys were on beta
substance list and even went as far as using
WADA accredited laboratories. The logic
wasn't openly acknowledged, but it was
was simple, if the European Tour could do
it, then so could the PGA Tour.
obvious to the rest of us. A guy's personality
would change.'
Something certainly needed to change
especially when players themselves were
Whether or not Norman’s claims are true,
remains to be seen. However, his allegations
becoming highly critical of the PGA Tour’s
measures with regards to stemming the use
are in the public domain and if true, casts
doubts over the integrity of the game. A
of performance-enhancing drugs (PED)
game that prides itself on that integrity.
within the game. One such critic was none
other than Rory McIlroy.
There is, of course, players out there that
may depend on beta blockers for health
"I could use HGH and get away with it,"
reasons.
McIlroy said. "So I think blood testing is
If any players have any health issues then
something that needs to happen in golf just
to make sure that it is a clean sport going
they can apply for a Therapeutic Use
Exemption (TUE). TUE’s can only be used
forward … If golf is in the Olympics and golf
wants to be seen as a mainstream sport as
with the consent of a doctor but allows
athletes to use drugs prohibited on the
WADA list if proof that an athlete's health is
sports that test more rigorously."
at risk without those drugs.
When athletes know they could get away
The issue of TUE’s really came to light during
with it, then it becomes clear that there is a
serious problem. McIlroy is not the first
the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. The hacking
group known as “Fancy Bears” revealed
player to highlight the issue within the
athletes TUE’s during the games and golf
was not immune. One player who came to
misuse of drugs. Greg Norman has claimed
that players had been using beta blockers
light was Patrick Reed.
for years during his career.
Reed’s TUE stated that he was allowed to
It might a different drug when compared to
compete in the Games with a four
exemption for the drug, Vyvanse. Vyvanse is
HGH (Human Growth Hormone) but beta
blockers are possibly the performance
a drug commonly used to help those with
enhancement drug of choice within a game
that measures success and failure on the
attention and decrease hyperactivity. In
other words, a performance enhancer in
panic attacks, beta blockers can lower the
regards to the game of Golf. Under
Reed’s TUE, he was permitted to use a drug
heart rate and combat any form of anxiety.
In the world of golf, they could easily be
on the banned list. Whilst Reed has done
nothing wrong and has followed the correct
seen as the ultimate PED.

Patrick Reed's TUE released by "Fancy Bear" hack
team in 2016 during Rio Olympic Games. TUE's
are legal based on medical treatment and Reed
followed the rules in order to compete. //
Source: GolfPunk
S U Z A
E U R

procedure, it does highlight what the drug can
2017. Other enhancers such as EPO, HGH and
Recently, Dr Anthony Galea lost his licence for
evidence.” Lance Armstrong
trust. If the Lance Armstrong scandal taught us
paramount. Trust in our sporting icons but also
Officially, Armstrong never failed a drugs test
seriously. With blood tests, the tour can now
do in the wrong hands in order to gain an
throughout his career. When he states that he
is correct. It was not the system that brought
advantage.
him down. In many respects, the system
Now comes the tricky part, whilst playing within
allowed him to maintain his deceit. The
Cycling Independent Reform Commission
the Olympics, players had to declare this in
order to gain their TUE. Prior to this, they could
produced a damning 227-page report saying
that The International Cycling Union (UCI)
have been caught out with a urine sample. This
was the only test that the PGA Tour did prior to
colluded with Armstrong in order to protect
the sport’s reputation. Armstrong was seen as
Danazol could not be traced with a urine test.
the man who changed the sport by winning
the Tour de France as a clean rider following
Those drugs require a blood test.
years of disgrace with regards to PEDs. It now
appears that the UCI was determined to
Doctors can also be complicit in helping those
who wish to enhance their performance.
maintain that myth by any means necessary.
So why is this important? Well, if the governing
nine months for professional misconduct.
Prosecutors claimed that the Canadian sports
body of a sport can go to such measures to
protect their star performers, then we must
doctor used a number of performance
enhancing drugs on elite athletes. One of his
question if other sports are doing the same.
With golf and its players now demanding more
former clients was Tiger Woods. Whilst there is
no evidence that Woods was involved with the
money in terms of prize purses, sponsorship
and endorsements, the thin line between
use of PEDs with Dr Galea, there can sometimes
be question marks with his association with a
success and failure is a much more prized
asset.
now, discredited professional.
With the PGA Tour now making a more
considerable effort to appease WADA, the War
“Extraordinary allegations require extraordinary
on drugs within the game can finally be taken
expand in its search to chase any cheaters. The
Tour has also declared in and out of
The world of drugs in sport is a murky one. It is
also one that requires, above everything else,
competition testing. The question marks will
remain but finally, golf is taking the issue
anything then it is simply that trust is
seriously in a post-Armstrong doping world.
Whether it will be effective will remain to be
the authorities that are responsible for making
seen. However, for the integrity of the game,
the PGA Tour has to make it work in order to
sure that the rules are followed.
restore not only the faith we have in golf but
also in sport in general.

S U Z A
E U R

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.

EQUIPMENT & FASHION
FROM
TO
BOMBTECH
MIZUNO:
SEARCH FOR
OUR
BEST GOLF
THE
GEAR
Buy the latest gear and improve your game.
That is what you are told anyway. Well, here
at Golfhacker, we have done the hard work
for you and cater for every budget. Our
Equipment Editor, William Murfitt, asks if
you can really get three wedges from
Bombtech for $97? We also take a closer look
at the new Mizuno GT180 Driver and
Evnroll's ER9 putter.

Don't get
Mad...
Get
Evnroll

So all you have to do is aim,” says Rife.
With a growing trend for high-MOI mallets
on tour, as the world’s best golfers seek to
To achieve ultra-high MOI it requires a
take nerves out of the equation when they
stand over high-pressure putts worth
really big putter head that is usually a
combination of ultra-light aluminium and
hundreds of thousands of dollars, putter
designer Guerin Rife set himself a
stainless steel that is about three times
heavier. The ER9 features a milled 6061
challenge to design a putter with double
aluminium body with strategically located
the MOI of many of the most popular high
MOI head designs on tour.
hollow cylinders running the length of the
head from face to rear along the extreme
“I noticed more and more lately that many
heel and toe to receive sizeable steel
weights. This design keeps the overall size
players on the PGA Tour are opting for
high MOI oversized putter head designs,”
down to manageable levels while still
achieving an astonishing 10,000 MOI.
comments Rife. “They have to stand over a
4-foot putt worth $200k to $1m that will
The head shape is essentially
change their life. The pressure can be
square with a wide central cavity
paralysing.”
framed by alignment lines along
each side and a single line in the
The nerves don’t have to take over too
center. This shape allows for a
much for an extremely costly miss, so
full range of short to long rod
highly stable putter designs that help to
weights to dial in swing weight
counter some of the potentially damaging
based on shaft length, grip
effects of pressure and nerves make
weights and counter
absolute sense.
weights. To help
reduce the size
MOI, or Moment of Inertia, is essentially an
visually, the ER9’s
object’s resistance to twisting. “For a putter,
aluminium body is
that translates to a rock steady swing path
anodized in a dark
and an enlarged area of forgiveness off the
grey satin finish.
face.

The ER9 will admittedly not appeal to all,
Like all Evnroll putters, the ER9-10K
features award-winning “Sweet Face”
especially traditionalists, but for those
who absolutely, positively want to make
Technology, an innovative and unique mill
every pressure putt the ER9-10K will
pattern engineered to deliver uniform
performance across the entire hitting area
deliver. “Having a putter that is so stable
that it overrides nerves is often the key to
of the putter face for unprecedented
success,” adds Rife. “The ER9-10K is
accuracy and zero dispersion. However,
because of the extreme stability created by
stability on steroids!”
the 10,000 MOI, the parabolic grooves
have been dialled back to produce the
The ER9-10K is priced at £299
same energy transfer and gearing effect for
www.evnroll.com
off-center hits.

Mizuno GT180 Driver
Mizuno’s new GT180 is the ultimate fine
The GT180’s high-speed performance
tunable driver blessed with the dual ability
platform is built around a Forged SP700
to help golfers squeeze every last yard out
Ti Face, a precise multi-thickness face
of their drives and evolve with them as
that promotes accelerated ball speeds. It
their swings evolve. The extreme levels of
is this speed, coupled with ultimate
adjustability on offer mean that the GT180
adjustability, that allows every golfer to
can help all golfers optimise performance
get the very most out of his or her game
.
from their existing swings, and then keep
pace with swing changes and course
The GT180’s ultimate adjustability paves
conditions as the season unfolds.
the way to an expanded range of draw,

“With its wider range of settings, the
neutral and fade settings in low, mid and
high spin flights.
GT180 can hold the key to squeeze out
those last few seemingly unobtainable
yards,” says Bill Price, Custom Fitting
The twin movable 7g weights have a wider
span of locations for greater impact on
Manager at Mizuno. “Being able to fine
tune your launch angle and spin rate is
spin rates and fade / draw bias, while the
Quick Switch Adjustable Hosel allows 4˚ of
the final element in the equation to find
your most efficient flight.”
loft adjustment and 3˚ of lie adjustment to
match every golfer’s unique launch
conditions and visual preferences. A Quick
Switch adapter offers eight different
GT180 Driver £449/€499
locations to allow precise customisation of
loft and lie and to fine tune ball flight like
never before. The finishing touch is an
expanded line of high-end shafts that can
be fitted at no extra cost.

B O M B T E C H : T H R E E W E D G E S
F O R $ 9 7 ? L E T S P U T T H E M T O
T H E T E S T
W i l l i a m M u r f i t t
Manufacturers bring out new and improved
With the modern golfer opting to carry
clubs all the time with many unfortunately
multiple wedges, costs can quickly escalate
breaking the bank. So I’ve set out on a
but, what if I told you that there is a
mission to find out if you really need to
company in America producing not one, not
spend mega money to get the equipment
two, but three wedges for $97. Would you
that you will to help you in your quest to
run or would you want to find out a little
achieve golfing greatness.
more?
When you think of wedges, there are a few
Thankfully I’m of the latter opinion so let’s
manufacturers that stick out. Cleveland with
find out a little more. BombTech Golf is a
RTX currently £69.99 each, Callaway with the
small American company based in Vermont.
Mac Daddy at £89.99 a wedge and Titleist’s
Working with Vermont University they
Vokey wedge priced at £119.99 each.
produced the Grenade driver and since this

B O M B T E C H
date, they have grown from strength to
The bounce has a two-tier step to help
with those tight lies. This is very similar to
strength increasing their products from
that one driver to a full range including
the Vokey design that many of the world’s
elite use. It looks great but sometimes
Irons, Woods, Hybrids, Putters and Wedges.
looks aren’t everything. Now I really want to
find out more about the personality of
Whilst still providing an outstanding level
of customer service, high quality of product
these wedges when hitting some balls.
and most importantly for us, low prices.
Having now opened up the overseas
Like all range sessions, I started with a few
short chips and they seemed to respond
market could BombTech be the brand of
the future?
very positively. A great feel in my hands,
the Bombtech grip feels solid and grippy,
I’m a fan of the weight, I’m not a fan of
At present, BombTech has four wedges on
the market. The wedge set that I have
clubs with a heavy head but these seem to
sit just right. The noise off the face
consists of 52, 56, 60 and the insane 72
degrees which is sold individually. Before
is very nice somewhat clippy,
it’s not something really I’ve
any orders are made BombTech's website
should come with a warning. It’s full of
ever thought about before.
It's not a hollow noise.
content, offers, customer feedback, fun
videos and service that you just can’t
grumble at. For example, they offer a ‘120-
Moving onto longer shots, that
consistent feel is still very much
day hassle free return’. Bombtech is so
confident and comfortable with their
there. The grip is holding its
own and the ball flight is easy to
products that they don’t think you will
return them. It’s defiantly worth a visit. But
manipulate for both high shots
and low spinny ones.
let’s put them to the test to see how they
get on.
First impressions are very pleasing. I’ll be
honest, I wasn’t really expecting the level of
workmanship as what has been delivered.
They are smooth and sleek with great
curves. The branding is very simplistic
and they include the BombTech
logo which complements the ‘Pull
the pin’ slogan perfectly. Typically,
I’ve found when you buy cheap, you
get what you paid for, but I can’t fault
the styling and finish.

Jake found the clubs to be a little heavy for
Direction and distance control is something
that I always seemed to struggle with. With
his liking which he felt impacted the way
he hit the ball however, with only 15 shots
my old wedges, this may be due to their age
or maybe they are just not best suited to my
he took his average dispersion to a very
respectable standard. This raised the
style of play but I found the grenades
extremely manageable. This is still very much
question of how suited his current old
"hand me down" wedges are suited to him.
the same when hitting some full swing shots
Distance control with the 52 was a bit of an
too.
interesting one. His furthest carry was 105
and shortest was 53, which he put down to
I’m pretty happy with how the clubs have
performed on the range, but what happens
trying to quickly adjust to the new clubs
and still getting used to them. As we
when using a launch monitor.
continued with the testing these numbers
became tighter.
While at the range, I took full advantage of
the GC2 launch monitor they have and invited
a friend of mine along for the ride to give a
For me, I felt that the weight of these clubs
really suited my swing and managed to
comparison between myself and a newly
started player, Now at this point in his career
keep the dispersion to a minimum
throughout the 15 shots. On average, my
Jake is very much a ‘Golfhacker’ but is
working hard to improve. The numbers make
spin was 2000rpm faster than Jake's
figures and found that the reactions when
some interesting reading, focusing on the
landing on the greens were really
distance control and spin numbers. I found
the distance easy to manage on the 52 and
responsive. This filled me with the
confidence to fire shots into flags and take
60 degrees but the struggled to get to grips
with the 56 degrees flying my target of 85
on a few more risks. Stopping the ball
seemed extremely easy to accomplish.
yards on nearly all my attempts. We took five
shots with each club to gauge a feeling and
Average carry seemed to match my current
wedges, except the 56 where I seemed to
our stats are shown below:

mentioned sets and they are travelling
gain some 10 yards but having played only
15 shots on the launch monitor, I got a
halfway across the world. They are
extremely well packaged in order to
quick feel for the control and achieved a
manageable ball flight. On the course is
prevent transport damage. Having now
N O P L A C E I S E V E R
where the relationship truly blossomed.
Having now gotten to grips with the
A S B A D A S T H E Y
distance, the BombTech's offer fantastic
control on the greens and it doesn’t seem
to matter if your chipping from the fringe
or hitting into a small green from 80 yards.
The ball takes one bounce and zips with
the spin making a good shot look like a
touring professional. Since putting these
T E L L Y O U I T ’ S
G O I N G T O B E .
used the wedges for a number of weeks,
some signs of wear are starting to show
their face with graze marks on the back of
club head from rubbing whilst in my bag.
The grooves have stayed strong and no
marks on the clubface or sole of the club
which is great, as there is nothing worse
than marking your new sticks.
clubs into my bag, my short game has
Would I recommend these wedges over
become more consistent and opportunities
the more expensive competition? 100%.
for birdies and tricky par saves are
Even when taking the shipping and import
becoming easier due to having the
duties into account, you are still getting a
confidence to stop the ball closer to the
set of fantastic wedges that are not just
pleasing to the eye but also easy to play
hole.
with. They will help to improve your
Now with all reviews, we must look at both
consistency around the green and pitching
sides of the story. It is not always a positive
from circa 100 yards in. Since being sent
experience, there are a few negatives, that
these wedges, BombTech has since
we must address with regards to the
launched this wedge set in a sleek Black
BombTech Grenade Wedges. I’ll be
finish which looks equally as stunning. So if
completely honest it pains me to write this
you are wanting the stealthier look, then
look no further. These wedges will be
as the clubs are so good!
remaining in my bag for the foreseeable
Thanks to the rules and regulations
future and I’m even looking into what to
surrounding importing goods to the UK,
upgrade in the bag next.
you will be greeted by some additional
costs which you may not have taken into
Get yours here: www.bombtechgolf.com
account. When my wedges arrived in the
Twitter @BombTechGolf
UK they were held in customs for a
number of weeks before I was finally issued
with an invoice for unpaid VAT for goods.
This was £34.38 but once paid, the clubs
arrived within a matter of days but nearly a
month in customs without the ability to
contact them was quite a pain. Shipping is
a tad expensive, however, with this taken
into account they still work out much
cheaper than purchasing the previously

to the fairway for a third season, Ted
Returning
Golf is a considered menswear collection for
Baker
has designed this carefully-edited capsule
Ted
for the keen golfer who’s looking for
specifically
Baker Golf’s offering includes printed polos in
Ted
signature style, soft chino shorts, and easy-to-
his
jersey pieces, and is complimented by
layer
such as leather golfing gloves which
accessories
the well-dressed are never constrained,
Ensuring
polo shirts and shorts are made with elastane
all
the collection takes elements from Ted
While
mainline and draws inspiration from
Baker
prints, bright pastels and deep
comical
shades, Ted has catered for every
summery
with water-repellent cotton blend
eventuality
and jackets providing warmth and
trousers
while windproof and quick-drying
breathability,
are also used throughout. Rain will
fabrics
signature eye for detailing is of course
Ted’s
in this collection, with built-in ball
present
cloths, token holders and Velcro glove
cleaning
all created to keep your focus on your
straps
Ted Baker
brings style to
the fairways
Ted Baker is a name synonymous with British fashion. Now the brand enters its
third year in the Golf market and has unveiled its 2018 collection. The
fairway will never look the same again with this collection that oozes style.
will always match up to your impeccable style.
the most gentlemanly of pursuits.
something a little different on the links.
never stop your play in Ted Baker Golf.
putt that finishing flourish in any swing.
game.
and comfort-stretch cotton to ensure your swing

BALLGO
print cotton T-shirt
Flamingo
a style statement on and off the course with the
Make
collared T-shirt. Part of Ted’s Golf collection, it’s
BALLGO
from cotton and features a bold floral design
crafted
a fun flamingo motif.
with
GULF
golf ball print polo shirt
Mini
into the swing of things with the GULF polo shirt.
Get
a print that looks like polka dots from afar but mini
With
balls up close, this quirky design also comes with a
golf
performance fit and a pocket in the sleeve
comfortable
photos of the week
£85
to hold your marker.
£85
Image:Ladies European Tour

OFFSET
detail polo shirt
Stripe
putts sporty sophistication first with his OFFSET polo
Ted
Framed by striped trims and finished in stretch
shirt.
for easy manoeuvrability when it comes to
cotton
your swing, this piece ensures your style is on
perfecting
GOLFTRO
trousers
Water-repellent
secret to a great swing is all in the hips, so follow
The
in style with Ted’s GOLFTRO trousers. Full of
through
features to keep you on the ball, the sporty
technical
trims will prove you’ve got game in more ways
striped
SANDPIT
geo print golf polo shirt
Mini
your swing in style with the SANDPIT polo shirt.
Make
a fun geometric print, this eye-catching design also
With
with a comfortable performance fit and a pocket
comes
the sleeve to hold your marker.
in
photos of the week
par with your A game.
£75
than one.
£119
£85

women will be turning heads in 2018 as
G/FORE
new spring/summer collection was revealed.
the
keeping with the brand's Disruptive Luxury theme,
In
- which was recently acquired by Peter
G/FORE
- has plenty of exciting new additions for
Millar
golfers who are determined to bring some
women
the many highlights is the Two Tone
Among
Polo (£125), the front is constructed from
Sweater
merino wool while the back sports delicate
fine
yarns, both of which wick away moisture to
nylon
Stripe Super Turtle (£145) became a
The
addition to the range but this updated
popular
wool version, is lightweight and makes
merino
transition between the seasons with ease.
the
the temperatures rise, the Effortless Skort
When
features a built-in short with zip-closure
(£95)
pockets and uses calendered fabric, a
side
which creates an extra sheen. They are
process
in the standard 15" length and longer
available
to suit individual preference.
18"
Perfect Fit Stretch Trouser (£125) is
The
lightweight, with a flattering length
extremely
G/FORE WOMEN'S
SS18 RANGE WILL
TURN HEADS
style and personality to the fairways.
help keep you dry.

available in two colours for the new season,
and
the popular Sunday Dress (£150) is
while
from an extremely soft and stretchy
constructed
fabric, tailored waist and pleated
cotton/nylon
with pockets - ideal for "9 & wine" at the
skirt
club.
country
premium-quality footwear remains a huge
The
and the Brogue Gallivanter Shark Skin
attraction
shoes combine an athletic fit in premium
(£159)
leathers with classic brogue details.
waterproof
designed by G/FORE's team of footwear
Custom
the Brogue Gallivanter boasts an ultra-
experts,
sole coupled with a bespoke cleat
lightweight
for optimal on-course traction.
design
shoe also sports a washable and anti-
This
triple density foam cushion Ortholite
microbial,
liner for superior comfort and is worn by LPGA
sock
Player Ryann O'Toole among many others.
Tour
new additions to the footwear range include
Other
Brogue Cruiser (£175) and the updated version
the
touch, tassels can be added to any of the
extra
shoe styles and comes in scarlet red,
brand's
blue, snow white, aqua blue and
twilight
pink (RRP £25).
blossom
of G/FORE, Mossimo Giannulli, said:
Founder
women's range from G/FORE continues to
"The
G/FORE brand is all about adding some
"The
and personality to golf and beyond."
colour
added: "At G/FORE, we aim to help
Giannulli
express their own individuality and
someone
rather than conforming to the norm and
style,
spring/summer 2018 collection is an
the
recent deal with Peter Millar means it's a
"The
time for the brand to develop as
progressive
develop and evolve in an exciting way.
extension of that.
we move into an exciting new chapter."
of the ever-popular Disruptor (£135). To add an

ALL NEW - BLADE IP
The new BLADE IP from BIG MAX is
now even easier and faster to fold thanks
to a revolutionary new flat-fold technology.
The wheels fold in automatically, as
if by magic, taking you half the time to
assemble and disassemble.
The most compact trolley on the Golf
market is now even easier and faster to
use. BLADE IP - now flat AND fast.
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facebook.com/bigmaxgolf

TRAVEL
OSLO,
NORWAY
Oslo has a smorgasbord of golfing delights so
we thought it would be a good idea to check it
out for ourselves. Lily Hymes heads to Oslo to
uncover more about this wonderful city. From
culture to cuisine, Golfhacker has all the bases
covered. Plus we check out all the best places to
play golf and even caught a few words from
Norway's finest female golfer, Suzann
Pettersen, who has a few courses that you
really should try. The delights of this
Scandinavian gem are clear for all to see. So
sit back, relax and let Golfhacker be your guide
as we explore everything that Oslo has to offer.

L E T I T G O " I N O S L O
"
i l y H y m e s
L
T H E A K E R S H U S F O R T R E S S A T N I G H T , S E E N F R O M T H E
O S L O F J O R D . C I T Y H A L L I N T H E B A C K G R O U N D ( L E F T )
C R E D I T : V I S I T O S L O / T H O M A S J O H A N N E S S E N
Winter has certainly arrived. The first view of
If you’ve never been to Norway before, a
Norway, flying into Oslo’s Gardermoen
cruise on the Oslofjord is a must. Norway is
airport, is of beautiful snowy hilltops, the
famous for its spectacular fjords and you
perfect setting for a movie like Disney’s
can see them for yourself in Oslo. Stop by
‘Frozen’, which has increased Oslo’s
Oslo pier, which is situated just behind the
popularity since its release, according to the
City Hall (Rathaus) and take a 2-hour guided
Norwegian Tourist Board. However, the over
cruise. From the cruise, you will get fantastic
1000-year-old city has so much more to
views of Oslo’s Opera House, Akershus
offer.
Fortress and city skyline, as well as the
islands of Lindøya and Hovedøya. Before
From the airport, jump on the ‘Flytoget’
returning to Oslo pier, the cruise will also
train to Oslo’s Central Station - it’s very easy
stop at Bygdøy, where you can disembark if
to find and it’ll get you there in 20
you’d like to visit the Viking Ship Museum,
minutes, whereas a taxi could take up to an
Norwegian Folk Museum or Fram Museum.
hour. Outside the station, you’ll be greeted
by one of Oslo's most photographed
Back at the pier, you’ll see Akershus Fortress.
inhabitants, ‘The Tiger’, a bronze statue
The fortress itself is free to enter although
which was a 1000th birthday gift to ‘The
entry to the castle and guided tours do
Tiger City’, as Oslo is nicknamed.
cost.

S C U L P T U R E S B Y N O R W E G I A N S C U L P T O R G U S T A V
V I G E L A N D \ \ C R E D I T : V I S I T O S L O / T H O M A S
J O H A N N E S S E N

Where to eat and drink in Oslo
If you’re travelling with ‘Frozen’ fans, this
fortress was the inspiration and model for
Skybar, Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel
Anna and Elsa’s castle! For the non-Frozen
fans amongst you, the medieval fortress is
This is just the perfect location for the most
stunning views over Oslo’s rooftops. It’s pricey,
also home to the Norwegian Armed Forces
Museum.
but even stopping by for one cocktail is worth
it for the view!
If you’re a fan of art, Oslo should definitely be
on your checklist. Take the tram to Vigeland
Café Cathedral
Situated right behind Oslo’s Cathedral, this
Sculpture Park (free to enter), the world's
largest sculpture park made by a single artist.
reasonably priced restaurant offers you the
chance to try Norwegian favourites such as
Here, you’ll find more than 200 sculptures by
Norwegian sculptor, Gustav Vigeland, which
moose and reindeer. If you’re not feeling so
adventurous, there’s also a selection of Italian
strikingly explore the human form and
human life. Head back into the city centre to
dishes on offer as well as breakfast.
the National Gallery to find Norway’s largest
TGI Friday’s, Karl Johans Gate
public collection of paintings, drawings and
sculptures, including Edvard Munch’s “The
Of course, TGI’s is a chain restaurant, so you’ll
find your typical burger offerings here, but
Scream” and “Madonna”.
sitting outside overlooking the busy
Spikersuppa Square in winter with blankets
Whilst you’re in the city centre, don’t miss a
visit to Spikersuppa Ice Rink (home to the Jul
(provided by the restaurant) is a great
experience!
i Vinterland Christmas Market during
December) and the Royal Palace, home to
Norway’s King Harald V and Queen Sonja,
Top Tips
who celebrate their 50th year of marriage in
2018. Here you can observe the changing of
1. Oslo is renowned for being expensive,
the guards every day at 13:30 as well as take a
guided tour (summer only).
particularly for alcoholic beverages. However,
if you’re travelling on a budget, there is a
fantastic selection of wines & spirits at Oslo’s
2018 is going to be the perfect time to visit
this extraordinary city. Lonely Planet have
Gardermoen airport and the allowance is
generous.
named Oslo in their Top 10 Cities to visit, not
only because King Harald V & Queen Sonja
2. If you’re travelling in winter, don’t forget to
celebrate their 50th anniversary, which will
mean you can expect an extensive calendar
take some sturdy snow boots or shoes with
good grip, as it can be very icy on the paths.
of civic, culinary & cultural events, but Oslo’s
innovative Opera House will also mark its 10th
Thermals would be a great addition to your
case too! Summer temperatures are typically
birthday with a celebratory season of concerts
and performances. If you’re visiting Oslo’s
very similar to those in the UK.
Opera House, don’t forget to take a wander
3. Norwegians do generally speak English, but
along the rooftop, as it’s open to the public
and offers stunning views of Oslo city and
the occasional “Takk” (Thanks) is welcomed by
the locals.
fjord.

T
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T H E V I K I N G S H I P M U S E U M
C R E D I T : V I S I T O S L O / T H O M A S J O H A N N E S S E N

T H E R E ' S A
C O N S T A N T N O I S E
O U T S I D E N E V E R
S I L E N C E D A T N I G H T
A I N T N O W A Y T O
H I D E F R O M T H E
C I T Y L I F E
I T Y L I F E \ \ A S H T R A Y N U T Z
S A I L B O A T I N T H E O S L O F J O R D
C
C R E D I T : V I S I T O S L O / S A B I N E Z O L L E R

T H E R E ' S A
C O N S T A N T N O I S E
O U T S I D E N E V E R
S I L E N C E D A T N I G H T
A I N
T N O W A Y T O
H I D E F R O M T H E
C I T Y L I F E
“Oslo is one of the most
beautiful cities in the
world and it’s my
hometown. We have
some great courses at
Oslo Golfklubb and
Miklagard that are
worth a round or two if
you come to Oslo to
play golf.”
I T Y L I F E \ \ A S H T R A Y N U T Z
S U Z A N N P E T T E R S E N
C
C R E D I T : L A D I E S E U R O P E A N T O U R

O S B Y G O L F K L U B B
L
R E D I T : B E N J A M I N A . W A R D
C
courses, the 18 hole championship
on-site, as well as a golf academy, indoor
G O L F I N O S L O
Despite its reputation for cross-country
skiers and speed-skaters, Norway has
produced some world-class female golfers,
such as two-time major champion, Suzann
Pettersen, who was born and raised in Oslo,
and three-time Ladies European Tour
winner, Marianne Skarpnord.
Losby Golfklubb
Host of the Ladies European Tour’s 2007
SAS Masters, Losby Golfklubb boasts two
Østmork course, and the 9 hole Vestmork,
where you can also play Footgolf! The
complex has a hotel and conference centre
simulator & more.

G O L F I N O S L O
Miklagard:
The Robert Trent Jones Jnr designed
course at Miklagard is certainly a challenge.
Just 10 minutes from Oslo’s Gardermoen
airport and ranked number 1* of the
Norwegian courses, it’s definitely worth a
visit when travelling to Oslo.
Photo credit: Miklagard Golf Club

Image: Champions PLC
N O M A D I C | 2 4

Valley, will this year celebrate its 125th
ancient, links-style parkland layout that runs
changes, undulating fairways fringed by
N O P L A C E I S E V E R
A S B A D A S T H E Y
T E L L Y O U I T ’ S
G O I N G T O B E .
S W I T Z E R L A N D ’ S O L D E S T G O L F C L U B , E N G A D I N E
G O L F C L U B , C E L E B R A T E S 1 2 5 T H A N N I V E R S A R Y
Words: Helen Heady
Photography: Cyrus Saedi
I N 2 0 1 8
Switzerland’s oldest golf club, the
The 125-year-old Samedan course is an
Engadine Golf Club, established in 1893
and located in the picturesque Engadine
along the flat valley floor, meandering
through streams and characterized by broad
anniversary with a number of
fairways flanked by giant larch trees whilst
its younger sister course at Zuoz-Madulain,
commemorative golf events whilst also
looking back on its rich, eventful history.
opened in 2003, offers challenging elevation
meadow flowers and receptive greens as it
The Engadine Golf Club not only has a
fascinating story to tell but the fact that
weaves its way along the side of the
mountain and between the pine forests.
the golf club is home to two separate, very
different golf courses located a mile apart
and run by a single organisation, Golf
Situated on some of the highest terrain in
the country and within a UNESCO World
Engadin St. Moritz (www.engadin-golf.ch),
Heritage site, both Samedan and Zuoz offer
sets it apart from most traditional golf
clubs.
stunning views of the towering Alpine

S A M E D A N ' S P A R 4 6 T H H O L E ® C Y R U S
S A E D I

However, the first event to launch the
dignitaries, hotels and nearby golf clubs
Samedan, 125 club members sponsored
E N G A D I N E G O L F C L U B , S T . M O R I T Z
mountains beyond and many of the
Samedan and Zuoz courses. With some of
charming villages of the Engadine Valley.
the existing larch trees even older than
To mark the 125th milestone and ensure an
the planting of a single larch each to
unforgettable year for the club, Golf
guarantee the future of both courses and
Engadin St Moritz is hosting a series of golf
their characteristic larch populations. This
events over the summer as well as staging
sustainability project will be recognised at
two exhibitions to showcase the unique
the Anniversary Tournament on August 1
history of the club.
when Mixed Foursomes will be played, just
as it would have been some 125 years ago.
Preparations for the anniversary actually
An Anniversary Dinner will then take place
began in 2016 when the club decided to
that evening at the famous Badrutt’s
plant 125 sapling larch trees on the
Palace Hotel in St. Moritz.
T H E 1 2 5 - Y E A R - O L D S A M E D A N C O U R S E I S A N
A N C I E N T , L I N K S - S T Y L E P A R K L A N D L A Y O U T T H A T
R U N S A L O N G T H E F L A T V A L L E Y F L O O R
This will be followed by the St Moritz Gold
summer celebrations will take place on
Cup in July, the Swiss Senior Amateur
June 6 when the club’s partners, local
Championship the week after that and the
three-day GolfersChoice Engadin ProAm
will be welcomed to the Samedan
over both golf courses in August.
clubhouse for a look behind the scenes at
Engadine Golf and to view an exhibition of
The Engadine Golf Club will also be the
over 20 posters located around the
theme of an exhibition at the Design
Samedan golf complex depicting the
Gallery St Moritz from June to December.
club’s history.
Along the famous giant escalator from

Moritz, go to www.engadin-golf.ch
Lake St Moritz up to Badrutt’s Palace, 31
posters will portray the times gone by at
the club as well as the development of golf
in the Engadine.
N O P L A C E I S E V E R
Finally a 20-year-old single malt whisky by
A S B A D A S T H E Y
Glentauchers in just 246 numbered bottles,
125 of which come with a matching
decanter designed by Robert Niederer, has
also been produced to mark the jubilee.
being a nod to the fact that at the end
This
the 19th and start of the 20th century,
of
were washed with whisky for
sandwiches
at Samedan!
breakfast
T E L L Y O U I T ’ S
G O I N G T O B E .
For more information on Golf Engadin St

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