2013 US Masters – Potential Winners?
With less than two weeks until the tee-off of the 2013 US Masters (the 79th) – and the excitement is building here at the UK Golf Blog! We thought we’d take a quick look at the current odds on the [...]
Garcia plays one handed shot out of tree!
That’s right, you didn’t mis-read the title of this post. Sergio Garcia stunned spectators by climbing a tree and playing one of the most remarkable shots at the Arnold Palmer International. Unfortunately for Garcia, he injured himself and had to [...]
Woods and McIlroy find form ahead of The Masters
Tiger Woods confirmed that his recovery may be becoming more permanent with his win at the WGC in Miami yesterday. Woods carded a final round 71 to finish -19 ahead of Steve Stricker (-17) and Adam Scott (-14). The win [...]
European Golfers Make the Comeback of All Time!
The location was Medinah, Illinois, within the United States of America. The occasion was the Ryder cup. Europe were the current holders of the cup and all they had to do was equalise with the United States in order to [...]
Masters 2012
Bubba Watson won the 2012 Masters after beating South Africa’s Louis Oosthuizen in a play-off after both men finished on 10 under after the regulation 72 holes. The 33 year old American won at the second extra hole to earn [...]
May 22nd, 2013 
Golf Break in Lincolnshire
For keen golfers out there you may want a change from your regular course once in a while and book a short golf break at a hotel, letting you get away from it all. Well, everything except the golf!
One of the best hotels offering short breaks for golfers is QHotels Forest Pines Hotel & Golf Resort in Broughton.
This North Lincolnshire golf hotel has been voted one of the leading winter courses in the UK and has also hosted a number of pro and amateur competitions, including the Euro Pro Qualifier and Junior Golf Championships.
The 10,000 yard, 27 hole course has a lot to offer every level of golfer, from picturesque, pine tree lined fairways to the infamous water hazard at the 7th hole – the hotel has retrieved over 6,000 errant balls in the space of one year.
If you don’t fancy a full round, then Forest Pines also has a great driving range you can use, and also a putting green for those who want to sharpen their skills up.
If you manage to forget your plus fours then fear not as the resort also has a fully stocked pro shop which has all the latest fashions and equipment that you could possibly need. At the end of your round, then you can enjoy a drink in The Pines Bar.
For any golf widows who don’t wish to take to the fairways, the hotel has an on-site spa with 6 treatment rooms, a relaxation room and swimming pool. The spa offers guests who want to invest in a bit of me time a number of luxurious treatments, including Elemis facials and QHotels range of signature rituals designed to get you back on your feet.
Rooms at the hotel are incredibly luxurious and have been designed with your comfort and relaxation in mind. Guests can take advantage of 24 hour room service, satellite TV and free internet.
If you can bear to leave your room or get off the golf course, then there are a number of things to do in the area. If you want to stay on a sporting theme, you could take a day at nearby Doncaster Racecourse, or delve into Lincoln’s history and visit Lincoln Castle.
Golf breaks at Forest Pines start from £99 per person and can be booked via QHotels website, or by calling 0845 074 0050.
2013 US Masters – Potential Winners?
With less than two weeks until the tee-off of the 2013 US Masters (the 79th) – and the excitement is building here at the UK Golf Blog! We thought we’d take a quick look at the current odds on the event and have a look at a few outsiders who we feel could make an impact at Augusta this year.
The top three
Tiger Woods victory at Bay Hill last week has rather predictably installed him as bookies favourite at 3-1, ahead of Rory Mcilroy (9-1) and Phil Mickelson (11-1), both of whom are displaying indifferent form in the run-up to the event. Next favourite Justin Rose (16-1) has been in more steady form – and he has a pretty decent recent record in Augusta, finishing in the top 20 for the last three consecutive years.
Three others to keep an eye on
Ian Poulter
Ryder Cup hero Poulter can be had at around 45-1 – which is pretty good value from our point-of-view. Poulter has cut his schedule in the run up to the Masters to ensure that he’s as fresh as possible. Whether this blunts his edge a little, who knows? His record at The Masters is solid – he’s had two top 10 finishes in the last three years. If he can conjure up some of the spirit he showed at Medinah last year and channel that into his own game then he could be a serious contender.
Matt Kuchar
The consistent Kuchar is surely a future major champion – and why shouldn’t his first come this year at The Masters? Last year he finished two shots behind joint leaders Louis Oosthuizen and Bubba Watson in Augusta and capped his year with a win at the Accenture Matchplay against Hunter Mahan. Kuchar can be had a most bookies at around 33-1.
Adam Scott
Likely to be under the radar a little due to his unfortunate collapse at last years British Open, to us, Scott is such a top quality player that we feel he has to come through at some point and claim his first major. His record is good at Augusta, finishing 8th last year and 2nd in 2011. We wouldn’t be surprised to see Scott up there on Sunday afternoon – let’s hope he can keep it together this time. You can get Scott at as high as 28-1 at some bookmakers.
So, now it’s over to you – who do you think will be in contention in this years Masters? Let us know in the comments!
Garcia plays one handed shot out of tree!
That’s right, you didn’t mis-read the title of this post. Sergio Garcia stunned spectators by climbing a tree and playing one of the most remarkable shots at the Arnold Palmer International.
Unfortunately for Garcia, he injured himself and had to withdraw from the tournament in order to prevent further damage. His attention now turns to the Masters, which will be Garcia’s next outing.
Woods and McIlroy find form ahead of The Masters
Tiger Woods confirmed that his recovery may be becoming more permanent with his win at the WGC in Miami yesterday. Woods carded a final round 71 to finish -19 ahead of Steve Stricker (-17) and Adam Scott (-14). The win as the 76th PGA Tour title of Woods career.
A delighted Woods spoke to ESPN following his victory:
As well as an impressive performance from Woods, the final round of the WGC also marked a return to form for world number one Rory McIlroy, who finally seems to be getting to grips with his new Nike equipment – he carded a final round of 65 to finish in 8th place on -10.
All in all both players form is highly encouraging ahead of the Masters in Augusta from the 11th to 14th April.
Is your money on one of the ‘big two’? Let us know in the comments………
Warrington to the Fore!
Warrington is a town in Cheshire in the county of Cheshire in the North West of England. With a history dating back to Roman times, it was designated as a new town in 1968.
There are a number of attractions in the area, including parks and museums, but for those looking for a sporting break there are a number of excellent golf courses in the area. Whether you golf in all weather or just enjoy a leisurely game at the weekend, there are a number of courses which are ideal for visitors.
Warrington Golf Club
Warrington Golf course is an 18 hole course set in meadowland, where golfers will enjoy fine views of Cheshire and the Welsh hills. The course covers 6,211 yards, Par 71 for gentleman and 5,700 yards, Par 73 for ladies and is playable year round. Visitors should note that handicap certificates are not a pre-requisite for play on the course.
Poulton Park Golf Course
Poulton Park course also offers stunning scenery and a great game of golf. Poulton Park is known for its Short Game practice facility where you will be able to create almost any golf shot from 100 yards. There is also an all weather pitch area near the clubhouse to practice your game, even in the difficult UK weather! It’s worth noting that Poulton Park is a private club but does allow for daily green fee play, and you should check the website for further details.
Birchwood Forest Park
Although it’s set in beautiful scenery, the course at Birchwood will set a challenge even for the keenest of golfers. At just shy of 6,600 yards with a Par 71 last hole, the course has a mix of natural and man-made hazards which will test your game. Play can take place all year round and there is also a short game area, putting green and practice range.
Walton Hall Golf Course
Considered to be one of the finest municipal courses in the North of England, Walton Hall is set in the historical estate which bears the same name, and the clubhouse is located in the old stables of the Hall. For any golf widows who may have accompanied you, the estate also has a Heritage Centre and coffee shop and also a children’s playground and zoo. The course is a champion standard, 18 hole course of 6,800 yards and has three Par 3 holes which are over 200 yards each. Play is year round and you can also take lessons from qualified PGA professionals if your game needs a touch of improvement.
Of course, if you visit one or all of these courses on your break to Warrington, there is always the clubhouse to relax in after your game!
If you’re not a golfer or if you are a golf widow, then there are a number of spa hotels in Cheshire where you can while away the time or just relax after a challenging game. One of the most relaxing hotels in Warrington is Q Hotels Warrington property, the Park Royal where you can book into the spa and experience one of the many treatments on offer, or just chill out in the comfortable bedrooms, and swap your plus fours for a cosy bathrobe!
European Golfers Make the Comeback of All Time!
The location was Medinah, Illinois, within the United States of America. The occasion was the Ryder cup. Europe were the current holders of the cup and all they had to do was equalise with the United States in order to retain it. Yet right up until the very last day Europe were behind and the outcome was very much up in the air.
By Sunday September 30th 2012 there was still everything to play for. At the 18th hole the German Martin Kaymer nailed it when he knocked in a six foot putt.
While comebacks are not unknown in the Ryder Cup they are often achieved with the uplifting effects of the home crowd. Europe was behind and on American soil. Things did not bode well until Sergio Garcia and Justin Rose turned things around. European team captain Jose Maria Olazabal was effusive in his praise of his team when he said “All men die, but not all men live”. With tears in his eyes he told his team that on this particular week he felt alive once more.
Memories of Seve Ballesteros were clearly in the minds of the European players as he was their team captain when they won in 1997 and 1999. It was poignant because of Seve’s death from a brain tumour in May of 2011. Some of the original players on Seve’s team were also there on Sunday, namely Lee Westwood, Paul Lawrie and of course the captain Jose himself. They were part of the 99′ dream team that smashed a 10-6 win through.
This is the third time that the Americans have fluffed it at the last minute. Nerves and the dynamic play of the Europeans continue to stun the Americans. Ironically it was Tiger Woods who conceded a half point to Francesco Molinari after Woods missed a par putt. Whilst seemingly insignificant, it put Europe a clear point ahead and was to eventually seal the fate of the Americans.
On a more humorous note, Rory McIlroy who has been the star man in the last few years ended up requiring a police escort to the tee off as he had misjudged the time zone. His start time was scheduled for 12:25pm Eastern Time but Rory thought he was in Central Time. He only managed to arrive with a mere nine minutes left to spare. This was just one of the stories to emerge from the latest thrilling instalment of the Ryder Cup.
Jonathan Fox covers topics on buying golf grips and writes articles for www.nordicagolf.co.uk.
Your Guide to Golfing in Scotland
Whatever a person’s passion, sport or hobby, it is natural to follow that interest to new places that can expand and exercise your passion. It is not difficult to see why the top choice for golfers is Scotland. With over 550 courses dotted across acres of picturesque scenery and breathtaking views, Scotland is a pilgrimage for golfers across the world.
Home to some of the most prestigious clubs in the world, Scotland offers golfers not only the best range of courses, but also the most luxurious hotels and retreats to perfect your golf holiday.
Inland Courses
Scotland is home to some of the most amazing inland golf courses in the world. Not to be missed, three of the top inland courses include:
Gleneagles (Kings) – Built in 1919, the Gleneagles resort boasts three championship courses to choose from, not to mention beautiful rock-faced mountains and green hill views all around, along with the peaks of the Trossachs and Ben Vorlick. A breathtaking golf experience.
Spey Valley – Designed in 2006, Spey Valley is a relatively new experience. Stunning views of greens, the Highlands and the Cairngorm mountains, with even the chance of spotting eagles in their natural habitats, make this a golf experience not to forget. Less hills for the less hiking-inclined golfer.
Blairgowrie (Rosemount) – Known as one of the most beautiful inland greens in Scotland, Blairgowrie is set upon miles of stunning parkland. A relaxing atmosphere that offers seclusion away from the hustle bustle of everyday life.
Island-hopping Courses
If you are looking for a more remote, untouched golfing experience, with a little adventure too, then island-hopping, as it is known locally, is the one to look at. See some of the top island-hopping courses available.
Whalsay, Shetland - home of the most Northerly holes in the British Isles. A fully natural environment on open moorland. Breathtaking cliff top scenery. Watch out for the wind though- it can make for some tricky shots on this course. A unique golfing experience.
Askernish, South Uist - Designed in 1891. Considered one of the most natural courses in the world. This small nine-holer has amazing views and always a friendly welcome from the locals.
Shiskine, Arran - With seven courses on offer here, head below Drumadoon Cliffs at Blackwaterfoot for a unique 12-hole course. Tucked away, player numbers are usually low at any one time, meaning a totally personal golfing experience, with great value green fees too.
Resorts
Don’t underestimate the importance of the right resort when planning your Scotland holiday. It can mean the difference between just a good golfing holiday and a great one. Go to sleep happy, wake up happy ready for the tee! See below some of the most luxurious resorts available.
The Turnberry Resort, Turnberry. In the heart of Ayrshire, this spa resort offers peace and tranquillity like never before. If you are looking for a relaxing place to put your feet up after a game, Turnberry is the place. Spa baths and waterfalls add to the serenity. Was also home to the Open in 2009.
Gleddoch House Hotel, Glasgow, Renfrewshire. If looking for nothing lacking quality but slightly cheaper, Gleddoch House offers golfers an 18-hole, championship course, views over the 360-acre estate, the Clyde Estuary and Ben Lomond and 4-star facilities.
Fairmont, St. Andrews. Perfect for partners- whilst the golfer is enjoying one of the two championship courses on offer, a partner could be enjoying the state of the art spa facilities, massages and facials, amongst many other relaxing experiences. Everybody is happy!
Scotland has so much to offer the golfer, no one experience or trip would ever be the same. You now have an idea of just some of the amazing things possible on your golfing holiday. Your trip of a lifetime is not so far away!
Daley works alongside http://www.altnaharra.com/, a prestigious sporting hotel in Scotland. When visiting the Highlands he enjoys golf, fly fishing and long mountain walks.
Expert Advice on How to Buy Golf Grips
For golf enthusiasts, buying the right golf grips means the world. The slightest discomfort with the club can kill the entire fun of the sport. Avid golfers know how important it is to buy golf grips that are comfortable and dependable. Since the entire game of golf depends on how firmly you hold the club, it is important to familiarise yourself with the rules of buying golf grips.
Don’t ever let your game be affected by using improper golf grips. Follow these tips to buy golf grips that are particularly parallel with your game:
Choose the Material Carefully
Golf grips come in three materials; rubber, synthetic and cord. Cord is the material most professionals use since it is hard and gives a good grip. On the other hand, those who play once a week or less prefer rubber grips. Rubber grips are soft but can get sticky with sweat. Cord grips can absorb but are hard enough to damage your skin so make sure you have the right accessories to neutralise the effects. Lastly, synthetic grips are mediocre ones and are not as durable as rubber grips or cord grips. Synthetic grips are mostly preferred by amateurs or hobbyists, as these grips are usually cheaper and easier to replace.
Decide on the Style
Ribbed and round are two styles of grips available out there. Rubber grips usually are ribbed whereas cord grips are usually round. Depending on the type you feel comfortable with, make your play. Amateurs and hobbyists should buy golf grips that are ribbed, as they are easier to play with.
The Diameter of the Grip
Most amateurs are not aware of the fact that the diameter of the grip can greatly affect their game. Grips with large diameters are best for slicing during the swing, whereas the ones with narrower grips are best for hooking. Professionals usually go for the large grips but you don’t necessarily have to follow the trend. Buy golf grip with diameters you feel comfortable holding.
Get It Professionally Installed
Grips are tough and rigid. Don’t try to install them yourself. You will either end up damaging yourself, the club or the grip. It is best to take it to a pro shop where you can get it installed.
The Verdict
In a sport like golf, your grip plays a vital role in determining the pace, strength and accuracy of your strikes. You cannot afford to let your entire game run out of hands by using inappropriate grips. Before you buy golf grips, always make a checklist of what you want and which area of your game you want to improve or stick to. Your requirements should determine the type of grip you should go for.
In order to buy golf grips that can complement your game, you need to have a list of instructions. Only with the right golf grips can you expect to play like a pro!
Golf in St Andrews
St Andrews is a lovely town in Fife, located on Scotland’s East Coast.
The town is well known for education, being the home to the University of St Andrews. The University of St Andrews is the third oldest university in the English speaking world and is certainly one of Britain’s most prestigious.
The town is also famous for its golf, so much so that it is known worldwide as the “home of golf”.
Visitors travel from all over the world to the town just so they can play a round on some of the oldest and finest golf courses in the world.
There are seven golf courses open to the public in St Andrews as part of St Andrews links; The Balgove, the Castle Course, Eden, Jubilee, New Course, Strathtyrum and last but not least, the Old Course.
The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, the governing authority of golf (except US and Mexico) is also based in St Andrews. Their clubhouse sits adjacent the first tee on the Old Course.
The Old Course
The Old Course is probably the most famous golf course in the world due to the unrivalled history it possesses. People have been playing on the Old Course since the 1400’s although the course wasn’t officially established until 1552.
The course has hosted The Open Championship more times than any other golf course. The Old Course has hosted 28 Open Championships and is scheduled to host it every five years, the last time being 2010.
The Old Course has played a pivotal role in the evolution of golf. Being the home of the R&A, many of the standard rules of golf were thought up at St Andrews. For instance, the course used to be made up of 22 holes. Members decided that the first two and the last two holes were too short and should be combined to make two new holes, therefore becoming an 18 hole golf course. From then on, the standard of an 18 hole golf courses was created.
The Old Course is also special for its unique feature of large double greens. Seven of the course’s greens are shared by two adjacent holes.
Today the course is a 7,305 yard, Par 72 course. Three players share the course record of 63. They are Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland, who posted his score of 63 at The Open in 2010. Luke Donald and Simon Dyson both posted the same score in the following year, in 2011.
If you do fancy a round at the Old Course or one of the other St Andrews courses, here a pick of the hotels to choose from:
Old Course Hotel *****
The Old Course hotel borders the most famous hole in the world (the 17th, ‘Road Hole’) on the most famous golf course in the world! Not only is the Old Course Hotel one of the finest hotels in St Andrews, it is one of the finest to be found in Scotland.
You can email the hotel to find out more information using: reservations@oldcoursehotel.co.uk
Macdonald Rusacks Hotel ****
This 4 star hotel is just a short swing away from the 18th hole on the Old Course. The hotel offers luxurious accommodation, fine dining and the first gastro pub in St Andrews. The hotel has also been stylishly remodelled using a golf theme. See if you can spot some of the references.
Website: Macdonald Rusacks Hotel
Fairmont St Andrews *****
The Fairmont St Andrews is a luxurious resort offering lavish rooms, spa and of course, golf! The hotel enjoys views of the medieval town of St Andrews and the coast, looking out on the North Sea.
You can email the hotel to find out more information using: standrews.scotland@fairmont.com
Hotel du Vin will also be opening a 4 star hotel in St Andrews in the near future. The hotel will sit just a few feet away from the most famous golf course in the world.
To see the progress of their hotel, you can check their website here: Hotel du Vin St Andrews
Travel & Leisure: Golf Resorts as a Travel Destination
Golf Resorts: The Ultimate Getaway
Do you love golf and to travel to exotic locations? Why not combine two passions and make a vacation out of it? There are golf resorts worldwide to choose from. Select the one that you find the most appealing. Chances are you’ll find a luxury resort that fits your needs. Imagine practicing your swing while having the time of your life. It’s possible when you choose a golf resort as your travel destination.
Here’s what you should look for before you book your accommodations:
1. If you paid for a package, what restrictions does it have? Are you only able to travel during certain times of the year? Are you paying for extras that you won’t use? Does it include lodging, meals, and time on green or are there additional fees for these amenities? It’s important to read the fine print so you get the best deal available.
2. Are you planning on doing anything outside the resort? If so, how will you travel to other attractions? Does the resort offer a shuttle service or private driver? Will you need to rent a car to get from one location to the next? This should be factored in whenever you’re comparing prices for golf resorts in the area that you’re visiting.
3. What hours is the golf course open? Will you be available to play a game or two daily or will work obligations interfere with your putting time? Do you know what the weather forecast is? Lightning storms shut golf courses down. Keep this in mind when making your final preparations. The last thing you want to do is stay inside when you can be out on the green hitting a hole-in-one.
Golf resorts allow you to think outside-the-box and create the vacation of your dreams. Because your accommodations are located close to the golf course, you don’t need to make special arrangements to play. In fact, you can spend as much time as you want perfecting your swing when you book this type of lodging.
If you’ve forgotten something, never fear! That’s what the clubhouse is for. You can pick up extra tees and golf balls while you’re there. You can even rent golf clubs from some locations. This allows you to travel light from your home to your destination. You can arrive to the golf course ready for the day fairly easily.
A golf resort vacation is in your future. By taking time in advance to plan your trip, you save yourself money and sanity. Few surprises will throw you off guard when you’ve already heard the weather forecast, looked over what’s included in your holiday package, and made transportation arrangements. You can even fly to your destination with very little hassle by leaving your golf clubs at home and renting a set from the resort’s clubhouse. Very few details of your trip can’t be arranged in advance. Even then, adaptations can be made to ensure that you enjoy every minute at the golf resort of your choice.
This article was written on behalf of Muskoka Grandview Resort. Offering the finest attractions, dining, golf courses & muskoka hotels in the region.
