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So, with less than a month to go to the biggest spectacle in the golfing calendar commences and we now know who is playing in this year’s Ryder Cup 2018 Teams (well all but one wildcard pick from USA team).

Here we take a look at the history of the competition and some other interesting facts to wow your friends with.

Ever wondered how and where The Ryder Cup came to into being? Read on…

The Ryder Cup – The History…

The home of the Ryder Cup is none other than Verulam Golf Club in St Albans, Hertfordshire where Samuel Ryder played…

It’s a little-known fact but the official home of the Ryder Cup is not St Andrews, The Belfry or any other well-known clubs in

the UK. But it is at the club where Samuel Ryder was a member along with his coach Abe Micthell.

Although 2018 will see the first time ‘The Ryder Cup’ has been contested on mainland Europe the origins of the tournament can be traced back to a meeting in 1921 – six years before the famous trophy was first contested.

On September 27th 1920, Golf Illustrated wrote a letter to the PGA of America suggesting that a team of US professionals should take part in the British Open with a 12-a-side international warm-up match to be played at Gleneagles.

The USA lost that weekend, but when it really counted a little over six years later in Worcester, Massachusetts, it was a runaway victory for the Stars and Stripes who secured a 9 ½ – 2 ½, victory.

However, it was as captain in 1927 that Ryder presented ‘a cup’ to promote matches between the USA and Great Britain.

It is, of course, a matter of history that the cup was named after this great man.

The home team won the first five contests, but with the competition’s resumption after the Second World War, repeated American dominance eventually led to a decision to extend the representation of “Great Britain and Ireland” to include continental Europe from 1979.

The event is jointly administered by the PGA of America and Ryder Cup Europe, the latter a joint venture of the PGA European Tour, the PGA of Great Britain and Ireland, and the PGA of Europe.

The Ryder Cup 2018 – The Venue…

Although only built in 1990, Le Golf National is a much more established than its age suggests…

Designed by architects Hubert Chesneau and Robert Von Hagge. It’s located in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, southwest of central Paris, just 10k from the world-renowned Palace of Versailles, and only 4 hours’ drive from Calais.

However, Le Golf National differs from any other Ryder Cup venue in that it is a Public course.

This means that there is no ‘club’ as such, and no ‘members’, only Pay & Players.

The course is also unique in the sense that it is owned by the French Golf Federation (FFG). In September 1985 the President – Claude Roger Cartier – with his committee approved the creation and development of a “National Golf” venue and it was quickly completed and opened by the French Minister for Sports by R. Bambuck in October 1990.

The management team is small but effective and is headed up by Englishman Paul Armitage (who has been at the club since 2014).

Paul, who along with his very dedicated team has – over the last four years – This means it now rates among the best in the world.

The grounds, which cover 139 hectares, were originally flat and bare having been used as agricultural land since Louis XIV and the Château de Versailles when it was one of the areas where wheat was farmed.

Constructed to give a ‘stadium like’ feel to events and in time for the 1991 Open de France, L’Albatros course has been their near-permanent home for the past 25 years.

The venue has recently undergone a €7 million renovation programme to transform this national golf centre.

The Championship L’Albatros course is now a globally recognised course with slick greens and vast undulating fairways dotted with large and small water hazards and innumerable links-style bunkers.

The course is consistently ranked in the World’s Top 100 Courses and Europe’s Top 10 by Golf World (UK) magazine.

The Ryder Cup 2018 – The Captains…

The Ryder Cup is a biennial men’s golf competition between teams from Europe and the United States.

The competition is contested every two years with the venue alternating between courses in the United States and Europe.

The Ryder Cup is named after the English businessman Samuel Ryder who donated the trophy – see above.

The inclusion of continental European golfers was partly prompted by the success of a new generation of Spanish golfers, led by Seve Ballesteros and Antonio Garrido.

USA – James Michael Furyk (born May 12, 1970). Furyk was born in West Chester, Pennsylvania. His ancestry is Czech and Polish on his mother’s side and Ukrainian and Hungarian on his father’s side.

His father, Mike, was an assistant pro at Edgmont Country Club.

His early years were spent in the Pittsburgh suburbs learning the game from his father, who was also head pro at Uniontown Country Club. In 2010, he was the Fed-Ex Champion and PGA Tour Player of The Year.

He has won one Major – the US Open in 2003. Furyk also holds the record for the lowest score in PGA Tour history with a 58 which he shot during the final round of the 2016 Traveler Championship.

Furyk played in 9 Ryder Cups as a player winning in 1997, 1999, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008. he also played in 2010, 2012, and 2014.

Europe – Thomas Bjørn (born 18 February 1971).  Bjørn is from Denmark.

He is the most successful Danish golfer to have played the game having won fifteen tournaments worldwide on the European Tour.

Bjørn is most remembered for his collapse at The Open at Royal St. George’s in 2003 when he led by two strokes with three holes to play but took three attempts to get out of a greenside bunker on the par three 16th, handing the tournament to Ben Curtis.

In 1997 he also became the first Dane to qualify for a European Ryder Cup team.

Bjørn made the Europe team winning in 1997, 2002 and 2014. In fact, his only defeat came in 2016 not as a player but as Vice-Captain.

The Ryder Cup 2018 – The Format…

The Ryder Cup is a match play event, with each match worth one point. The competition format is as follows:

• Day 1(Friday) – 4 foursomes (alternate shot) matches and 4 fourballs (better ball) matches
• Day 2(Saturday) – 4 foursomes matches and 4 fourball matches
• Day 3(Sunday) – 12 singles matches

On the first two days, there are 4 foursome matches and 4 fourball matches with the home captain choosing which are played in the morning and which in the afternoon.

With a total of 28 points available, 14½ points are required to win the Cup, and 14 points are required for the defending champion, Europe, to retain the Cup.

All matches are played to a maximum of 18 holes according to the current format

The Ryder Cup 2018 – The Teams…

Anticipation has never been higher, The Ryder Cup, the most prestigious and distinguished tournament in golf, is now just a few short weeks away and this year’s event couldn’t be more hotly contested.

Experts are tipping the USA as Ryder Cup favourites this time around following their win in 2016…

Europe’s dominance over the last few decades was diminished at Hazeltine, but the return of Ian Poulter who, renowned for his passion and spectacular under-pressure performances, could give the European’s the edge.

Although some may argue that the inclusion of Tiger Woods in this year’s team could inspire them to back to back victories.

2016 has a lot to live up to, but you can guarantee that whatever happens a new chapter in the Cup’s glittering history will be written.

Oh, and if having a flutter is your thing, why not head over to The Ryder Cup betting guide at 888, where you can select your prefer odds of each match from the comfort of your armchair.

The Ryder Cup 2018 – How to Watch & Follow…

As with previous year’s the Ryder Cup 2018 will be broadcast on Sky Sports HD with coverage starting as early Monday the 25^th.

In addition, the event will be covered by BBC Radio 5 live and of course, you can also follow the event via social media feeds such as Team Europe on Facebook…

We just can wait now!

#TeamEurope

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By Ian Mullins

Le Golf National – TSG Ryder Cup Course Review

Thorpeness Golf Club is set on the Suffolk coast, a few miles south of Southwold and is most famous for its unique landmark, the ‘House in the Clouds’. Located just off the A12, it is within easy reach of Ipswich and Lowestoft.

We sent TSG course reviewer Ian Mullins to check out the course and share with his fellow TSGers, his view on the set-up….

Thorpeness Golf Club – The Hotel, Clubhouse & Shop…

The entrance to Thorpeness Golf Club & Hotel is welcoming and the long drive up to the main hotel gives you a real sense of anticipation that you are about to have a good day.

The Clubhouse and hotel are combined meaning that you are likely to encounter walkers, runners, cyclists, as well as those the favour the little white ball.

However, whilst the hotel is modern, light and airy (as you would expect) once you enter the bar area you get a sense of the club’s history.

The idea for the golf club was first conceived in 1910 by the Scottish Barrister Stuart Ogilvie but the first world war postponed the building of the course until James Braid was invited to design the layout in 1922.

Widley accepted as one of the great golf course architects he went on to design over 200 golf courses in the UK.

By July 1922 ten holes were finished, with the remaining 8 completed in 1923.

Some of the trophies on display in the bar area are the oldest in British golf club history, including the ‘silver Frigate’, a replica ship cast in the purest silver.

The Pro-shop is situated by the putting green and we were welcomed with a big smile (some clubs could learn from this!) from Senior Club Professional Christine Langford.

Christine is from good pedigree, having turned professional in 1976 to pursue a career as a tournament player, she was one of the first players to qualify to play on the US LPGA Tour she is a founder member of the Ladies European Tour where she won 5 tournaments.

With over 40 years working in her sport Christine has been recognised by the PGA twice, once by being awarded Advanced Fellow status and earlier this year she was made an Honorary Life Member of the Association.

Membership starts from as little as £51.50 a year for juniors, with Adult membership around the £1200 mark. Special concessions are in place for Seniors over 80 too.

Thorpeness is not the cheapest course to play for visitors BUT it is good value.

Rates for 18 holes is £60 before 12pm, £40 after 12pm with twilight rates also available.  The Shop is stocked with all the usual bits and pieces and their embroidered club wear is very smart.

All the staff were friendly and very laid back (we are in Suffolk) and whilst I do object to being asked to pay £14 for breakfast (in the main hotel), a simple bacon roll can be bought at the bar for much much less.

Thorpeness Golf Club – The ‘House in the Clouds’…

Arguably, Thorpeness Golf club is most well-known and quirky landmark – The House in the Clouds.

Originally a water tower, it was built in 1923 to receive water pumped from Thorpeness Windmill and was designed to improve the looks of the water tower, disguising its tank with the appearance of a weatherboarded building more in keeping with Thorpeness’s mock-Tudor and Jacobean style village.

The original capacity of the water tank was 50,000 imperial gallons (230,000 l) but during the Second World War, the House in the Clouds was hit by gunfire from anti-aircraft guns based at Thorpeness.

In 1977 the water tower was made redundant by a mains water supply to the village, and additional living space was created. In 1979 the main water tank was removed to fully convert the building into a house.

The building currently has five bedrooms and three bathrooms; it contains a total of 85 steps from top to bottom and is around 70 ft high and can be rented out by anyone

Thorpeness Golf Club – The Course…

As mentioned above, designed and built by James Braid, the course is an interesting mix of heathland, linkland, parkland and woodland.

Oh yes, and its narrow! I was warned before teeing off (on an immaculately presented first tee box) I would lose golf balls at this course and with my game, I didn’t disappoint them.

However, don’t be afraid, if you play this course conservatively and straight, it can be beaten.

The course is 6,421 yards but feels much less as most holes as on flat ground but watch out for the bunkers, they are all perfectly placed to catch your ball.

I played here at the height of the dry summer of 2018, so we got plenty of ‘run’ but I suspect the course can turn on you in Winter.

All the Greens were what you would expect from a Top 100 golf courses (no.83) and with every hole presenting a different challenge from the last, it requires playing a few times before you will score well.

However, golf isn’t supposed to be easy and there is a real sense of authenticity to this layout.

The stand-out holes as I recall:

7^th – Par 3, 139 yards over water to sloping green

9^th – Par 4, 469 yards, dog-leg left to raised green

15^th – Par 4, 405 yards dog-leg left to flat protected green

18^th – Par 4, 408 yards, dog-leg right finishing under ‘House in the Clouds’

All in all, Thorpeness Golf Club is a pretty and welcoming club and course and is a delight to play.

I would highly recommend this course to any local people, or, like me from further afield (or in my case, only the neighbouring county of Essex).

A pretty course full of fauna and mature parkland and I can’t think of anything to criticise.

Thorpeness Golf Club – And Finally…

Christine explained that they were very keen on providing golf and hotel packages for all standards of player, whilst also catering to Mixed Couples, Women’s Golf and Juniors.

More information can be found on their website.

TSG Verdict: 4.5 out of 5!

By Ian Mullins

More Course Reviews from The Social Golfer…

To celebrate their sponsorship of the ‘Nearest to the Sim Pin’ at the 2018 TSG OPEN, ourselves and Official TSG Travel Partner Golf Escapes, would like to tell you more about Isla Canela Golf Hotel in Huelva in Spain…

Isla Canela Golf Hotel – The Location…

The region of Huelva in Spain is full of unspoilt natural beauty, interesting historical sites, wonderful golden beaches, great hotels and even better golf courses.

The region is equidistance between both Faro airport and Seville airport making it easily accessible and we all know that less time travelling means more time holidaying!

Huelva is an up and coming region in terms of the golfing opportunities with the already established Islantilla resort, as well as Isla Canela and the new championship course at El Rompido.

With more and more plans for new golfing opportunities here every year it is a perfect destination for your next golf holiday to sunny Spain.

Isla Canela Golf Hotel – The Hotel…

A great place to stay and enjoy in Huelva is the Isla Canela Golf Hotel.

This four-star hotel is modern and luxurious and is just a five minutes’ drive from Isla Canela as well as only a mile or so from the beach.

With a traditional style restaurant, a Tapas bar and a café there is always somewhere to relax and eat at this hotel.

The hotel also features a beautiful outdoor pool area as well as a fantastic golf course on site.

Isla Canela Golf Hotel – The Course…

The Isla Canela Golf course is a great course for golfers with a higher handicap as it is a more straightforward course but of course, can be enjoyed by golfers of all abilities.

There are some beautiful views of the beach and the forests which are intermingled with some fantastic dog-leg holes and stunning greens.

This course has little undulation so is perfect if you’re looking for a lovely course that you can walk and take in the scenery whilst playing an enjoyable round of golf.

It’s a perfect destination for your next golf escape to Huelva.

By James Bryan

For more information and some great packages visit www.golf-escapes.com/isla-canela-golf

In a continuation of his series on Unique Golf Courses of the world TSG contributor – Scottish Bob – now turns his attention to some of the lesser known courses around the world, this time it’s the turn of Kilimanjaro Golf & Wildlife Estate…

As I have stated before, it never seems to amaze me the never-ending list of spectacular golf clubs & courses around the world, each one of them have their very own characteristics & uniqueness about them.

And this stunning golf club is worthy of joining that list…

Kilimanjaro Golf & Wildlife Estate – The Course…

The first 18 hole par 72 Championship golf course was built in Tanzania on the east coast of The African Continent by the world-renowned golf course designer, David Jones.

It opened in 2003, with the man himself a Kenyan Open Golf Champion, and a former Irish National Golf Coach.

The course is 1400 metres above sea level and is set in 1000 acres of the African bush near the small town of Usa River which is only a 30-minute drive from Kilimanjaro airport.

The Championship course has been designed to benefit golfers of different skill levels, from the championship level of approximately 6,500 metres to a gentler 5,400 metres.

The Clubhouse sits slightly higher, meaning you can look down and enjoy the stunning’s views of Mount Kilimanjaro while golfers are practising their golf shots. The golf course is unique, in that each hole blends effortlessly into the natural surrounds of the local terrain.

In addition, the individuality of the landscape with its own indigenous plants, native grasses and trees make this a wonderful experience for any golfer.

The Greens are large with very subtle changes in elevation, and each hole demands thought with bunkers strategically placed to allow golfers a fair shot at the fairways & greens. The 11^th through to the 13^th holes share a beautiful lake running the length of these holes.

However, on the 18^th hole, you have a risk versus reward shot, which requires a bold shot onto the wonderful island green, and what a way to finish your round of golf.

Kilimanjaro Golf & Wildlife Estate – The Scenery & Wildlife…

After you have had a relaxing rest, you might have been giving a lot of thought about the beautiful and stunning snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro that you have been seeing on your round of golf.

You might even have considered ticking another box on your “Bucket list” by just maybe… having a go at climbing the highest free-standing mountain in the world!

As well as being the highest mountain on the African Continent (It currently stands at a height of 5892 metres) and it is also the fourth highest mountain in the world. Nearby Mt Meru can also be seen in the distance at a height of 4566 metres.

Nevertheless, if you are too exhausted after your round of golf to consider the climb, you could always relax in this beautiful Estate with a cold drink in your hand, and maybe try some of the local Tanzanian food or try some other exotic African cuisine.

This can be done while watching the abundance of African wildlife that is roaming around the bush and scrub surrounding the course, from the graceful Gazelles, Dik Dik, Duiker and some of the smaller wild cats including the Civet, the African Cerval, Jackals, and the very elusive Aardvarks!

With the larger animals like Wildebeest, Zebras Kudu’s also to be seen in the Wildlife Estate, not to mention the plethora of wild native birdlife of which their are just too many to mention.

This amazing & unique golfing experience and much more can be had in just one place …“The Kilimanjaro Golf & Wildlife Estate”.

Til next time

“Scottish Bob” Davies.

Unique Golf Courses of the World – Christmas Island…

Spanish Golf Accommodation – Zeniamar, Orihuela Costa – Golf Apartment…

– Superb apartment in Orihuela, Spain

– 20 mins from Murcia airport

– Sleeps up to six golfers

– From only £50 pp per week

Spacious two-bed apartment located in one of the most famous urbanizations like Zeniamar in Orihuela Costa, just 20k from Murcia International airport.

This is a beautiful quiet residential area is located inland but all local beaches can be reached in less than 20 minutes.

The property has a generous living room with kitchen, terrace, 1 double bedroom, Twin room with bunk beds and two sofa beds and bathroom.

xx

Spanish Golf Accommodation – There are more than 14 superb Golf Courses in the local area including:

– Golf La Finca

– Las Colinas Golf & Country Club

– Hacienda Riquelme Golf

– Club de Golf Las Ramblas

– Golf Club Villamartín

– El Valle Golf

– La Torre Golf

Spanish Golf Accommodation – Orihuela Costa & History…

Orihuela Costa is a coastal region situated on the Costa Blanca in the province of Alicante.

It sits close to the border with Murcia, near La Manga and the beautiful Mar Menor.

Despite its name, it is actually around 20 kilometres away from the main resort of Orihuela.

The region covers several seaside resorts including Punta Prima, Playa Flamenca, La Zenia, Cabo Roig, Villamartin, Campoamor and Mil Palmeras. Orihuela Costa is an ideal destination for those looking for a beach family holiday, with 16 kilometres of diverse coastline.

It is also an excellent choice for golf holidays; in fact, Orihuela Costa is well equipped for all needs, with lots of amenities, facilities and leisure attractions.

Spanish Golf Accommodation – Surrounding Areas…

The seaside resort of Cabo Roig is located at the southern end of the Costa Blanca in Orihuela Costa.

The charming town is home to several blue flag beaches and enjoys a spectacular mountainous backdrop.

Just 10 kilometres from Torrevieja, the town itself has wide palm-lined avenues and delightful lush gardens, with views to the Mediterranean and to the La Manga Peninsula and Mar Menor.

The tranquil resort urbanisation of Playa Flamenca is situated close to the lively town of Torrevieja on the Costa Blanca.

The area is home to delightful beaches, golf and lots of recreational facilities such as water parks, tennis, go-carting and tennis.

Again close to Torrevieja is the popular resort of La Zenia.

The town has everything one needs to enjoy a perfect holiday: blue flag beaches, golf, good amenities, lots of Spanish and international restaurants and a beautiful surrounding countryside to explore. La Zenia is one of the most famous resorts on the Costa Blanca.

The local beaches around Punta Prima have been awarded 67 European Blue Flags and range from natural sand dunes with a pinewood backdrop to long stretches of golden, sandy beaches.

Punta Prima is really an urbanisation, rather than town; made up of apartments, townhouses and villas, situated some 5 kilometres to the south west of Torrevieja.

Campoamor is an excellent location close by for people who want to appreciate an element of real Spanish culture. The stunning scenery, green woodland and beautiful beaches make Campoamor a premier destination on the Orihuela Costa for tourists.

The prestigious golf development of Villamartin is situated just south of Alicante on the Orihuela Costa.

The complex has the feel of a charming Mediterranean village, with apartments, townhouses and villas, and all the amenities you could wish for, including shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, and of course two 18-hole golf courses.

There are also beautiful sandy beaches close by, that never get too crowded.

Mil Palmeras is the most southerly resort on the Orihuela Costa. It’s an attractive and popular seaside resort boasting fine, sandy beaches, rocky coves and bays, and lots of water sports and beach facilities.

Spanish Golf Accommodation – Climate…

Orihuela Costa enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, with cool sea breezes in summer and protection by surrounding mountains against the cold North winds in winter.

The area averages nearly 3,000 hours of sunshine each year and the average temperature easily exceeds 20 degrees.

In 1986 the World Health Organisation recommended the climate of the area as one of the most equitable in the world – neither too hot in the summer nor too cold in the winter.

On average it can boast 325 sunny days each year making it an ideal all-year-round destination.

Rental rates for 2018/19 based on 7 nights…

– April/May = £300.00 (£65.00 Per Night)

– June/July/August = £400.00 (£80.00 Per Night)

– September = £350.00 (£70.00 Per Night)

– October = £300.00 (£65.00 Per Night)

– November/December = £250.00 (£50.00 Per Night)

Spanish Golf Accommodation – What people said about this apartment complex…

“A very good place to holiday. Nice and clean. Nice apartments.” Google Reviews

“The house is great. Perfectly equipped, all new and of quality…which makes you can enjoy the outdoors anywhere. sunny and bright, in a super quiet urbanization with a large pool in which we were practically alone. Not a noise. The overall assessment is perfect!” – Booking.com

xx

For more information on booking your next golf trip, please contact…

xxx

louise.hart@aes-uk.co.uk

xxx

Or call 07753 787 270 

Terms & Conditions…

• Minimum 5 night stay
• These prices include the A/C and Heating
• The only other cost will be for the cleaner
• Up to 4 Persons 55.00 Euros payable direct to the cleaner
• Up to 6 Persons 70.00 Euros payable direct to the cleaner
• This is a strict no smoking property
• There will be a £500 breakage deposit required which will be refunded on check out
• Up to 4 Persons 55.00 Euros payable direct to the cleaner
• Up to 6 Persons 70.00 Euros payable direct to the cleaner
• This is a strict no smoking property
• There will be a £500 breakage deposit required which will be refunded on check out

xx

Read about TSG member Paul Houghton’s trip to Sicily…

Gaudet Luce Golf club (pronounced Gore-day Loose) is set in a very nice part of rural Worcestershire.

Located on the edge of Droitwich Spa, the club is very easy to locate as it is only 5mins from the M5 and has named signs from the town centre.

Worcester is only 20mins away, and Birmingham about 40mins.

As a new TSG Club Partner, we sent TSGer Andy King to check out the course and share with his fellow TSGers, his view on the course.

Over to you Andy…

Gaudet Luce Golf Club – The Clubhouse & Shop…

It is thought Gaudet Luce is Latin for something like ‘Rejoiceful Light‘ as we were told by the Company Director whos family has always owned this course since its start in the late 90’s.

I personally love a golf course you drive through part of to get to the clubhouse, you get a little taster, and Gaudet Luce doesn’t disappoint.

The car park is big but there are several other businesses onsite, so parking might be a problem at certain times.  We had no issue, and probably will be fine most times….

The course and clubhouse are relatively new, established in 1995. So, as you’d expect, the clubhouse is very modern, clean and tidy.

However, their trophy cabinet in the welcoming and comfortable bar, is as impressive as you’d find in a club a hundred years old.  #

All staff, bar, shop, and just generally were friendly and helpful (not only to us, but we noticed they stopped to chat, and were as helpful as they could be to members we saw onsite as well ).

We had some food and drinks after, which were very nice and reasonably priced, the bar area although good, if it was used to cater to a large society might get a bit cramped, 30 or so would be fine but hey may have other areas for larger groups.

The Pro shop is not huge but is well stocked, and recently incorporates the retail company, American Golf, so you know what you’re going to have on offer.

Speaking to the shop staff about the course was informative about 150yrd markers etc, however, the weather lately had been so good, there was nothing for them to warn us about by the way of wet or muddy parts.

There’s a teaching school available with details on the Gaudet Luce Golf Club website.

Gaudet Luce Golf Club – The Courses…

There are two courses, the 9 hole Par 3 ‘Hazdor’ course which looked very nice and is used for a quick round, practice, and lessons etc by members and guests.

However, the absolute star of the show is the full 18 hole ‘Phoenix’ course.

Off the Whites, it is 6053yrds Par 70.  Yellows  5869yrds Par 70. Reds 5392yrds Par 73

This may not seem to be ‘long’ by modern standards, but if you don’t bring your ‘A’ game, you may go home shaking your head.

However, you WILL want to come back for another go…frankly, it’s a stunner!

A beautiful Parkland course that’s got the balance just right.  Not too daunting for high handicappers, not too easy for low handicappers.

The condition in early May was excellent.

Good quality Tee boxes with lovely features like box hedge surround, fairways that were springy and lush, just the right amount, and Greens that were true and a good speed.

There is some water to negotiate, but again, it’s not too much. Everything was high quality.

It is quite tree lined (especially the front 9), but not too punishing, and the trees etc. frame the course beautifully.

It is a course of two halves, the front nine being tight in places but shorter.

The back nine more open but longer and with more water and some slopes to contend with.

From the first nice wide downhill tee, although OOB down the right, the course unfolds in front of you, with all holes offering something different.

The 2^nd being a gentle downhill Par 3, but watch out for the pin placement.

However, the tricky 4^th demonstrates the ‘short/tight’ idea though.  At only 263 yards from the yellows this Par 4 seems easy…it’s not.

With an entrance to the green through the eye of a needle, you need to be pinpoint accurate.

The 353 yard, 7^th is quite straightforward…IF you get a good intimidating drive away.

Quite a carry over water to the fairway will worry some.  The Par 5, 8^th will get the grey matter going, calculating distances over ( or not ) brooks, and around ( or NOT ) ponds to a very very shallow green.

The more open back nine starts with a great Par 3, but straight away, you see the water coming into play.

The downhill 11^th is also worthy of a special mention, as again the view sweeping down is fabulous.

Another Par 3 at 12 shows a very popular hole that has DANGER written all over it.

I’ll say little about the monster that is the 14^th (421yrds mostly uphill par 4 at ‘only’ stroke index 13. Ouch !!!)

ALL of the Par 3 holes stood out as special, but my favourite hole was the 17^th.  Off the yellow tee, a 502yrd Par 5, that the 2^nd half is STEEPLY uphill to a platform green.

However after all that effort, turn around and look back down the hole….the view will take your breath away (even if you might need a buggy to be ABLE to breathe after that climb!).

The course is easy to find your way around, as most tees are within sight of the previous green, and where they weren’t, there were good signs showing the way.

There ARE birdies out there to be had, but you need to play carefully to benefit.  A real thinkers course!

Gaudet Luce Golf Club – Other stuff…

Practise facilities are also very well catered for.  A good full range, practise putting areas and the helpful shop Pro’s all there to prepare you for your round.  Lessons are available, and the club seems very well set up for societies etc.

In fact, the clubs website is one of the most detailed I have ever seen.

From their price range to play and other offers onsite, like FootGolf, membership, and group golf days ( even to the opening and closing times of the kitchen, and online menu’s!!).

There also looks like a lot going on away from the golf.

With special offer meal deals, and entertainment galore.  I would seriously look into membership here…if only it wasn’t nearly 200miles from home !!

Coming from the London area, I thought the cost was very good value for money, even at the weekend.

Two of my group came from about 1hrs drive away and were already thinking of it as a great venue for their society to come to because of the cost and the quality of the ‘Phoenix’. Visit – Gaude Luce Golf Club – TSG Club Partner Offers

Gaudet Luce Golf Club – Conclusion…

All in all, Gaudet Luce is a fantastic club and course making us feel very welcome and is a delight to play.

A real gem, well worth a trip. Really struggling to think of ANYTHING to criticise.

Yes, some may argue you can hear the M5 most of the way around, but personally, it’s not too loud and I managed to ‘blot’ that out after a few holes.

I would highly recommend this course to any local people, or, like me, a visitor from further away. You’ll love it.

TSG Verdict: 4.5 out of 5!

By Andy King

Il Picciolo Golf Resort, Sicily – TSG Review…

Having planted my ball on the 7^th green at Peeble Beach (at the TSG Open Championship on a simulator!), the next thing I know I’ve won a golfing trip to Sicily courtesy of Golf Escapes and Il Picciolo Golf Resort.

And having added a few dates to our trip, here’s my review for my fellow Social Golfer members to enjoy….

By Paul Houghton

Il Picciolo Golf Resort, Sicily – location and accommodation, Facilities…

Il Picciolo Golf Resort in the centre of the Mediterranean island of Sicily is situated roughly 50 miles from Catania Airport.

The hotel is over half way up Mount Etna the scenery is spectacular.

The transfer cost is 120 Euros (one way) and takes 50+ minutes.

The hotel and course itself were built in 1989 but sadly the outside of the hotel reflects this and is badly in need of refurbishment.

On arrival you approach a rather dated reception, where details are taken, language is not a barrier but no help with luggage was offered?

Sadly, the first thing to note is the hotel is not overly disabled friendly, some steps are not accompanied with handrails.  However, the rooms are of a good size with on suite bathroom facilities.

They are clean and the chambermaid service is very good.  Towels and shower gel etc changed every day. The room boasts Sky television and a mini bar.  Only four coat hangers per person encourage you to travel light, but there’s plenty of space for clothing and storage is available.

The restaurant was very spacious but a little dark, the staff were courteous but surely on occasion.

The three-course evening meal costs 29 Euros and was very good, most of the time.  The Saturday evening buffet was superb, only the last night did I feel the food was of a poor standard.  The breakfast layout is bland but of good quality.

The service during breakfast seemed more relaxed.  I fell one evening slipping on a discarded cucumber slice and the staff were very quick to act, cleaning up the debris, but alas did not follow up to ask if this disabled man was injured, so we felt could have been handled better.

The hotel catered for coach parties which stayed one or two nights at the hotel, staff seemed more attentive towards them than the longer staying cliental.

The cocktail bar was run by a very efficient member of staff for most of our stay (7 nights) but when she was not on duty, she was replaced by staff who obviously did not enjoy the role.

The drinks were not cheap at £7 for a G & T, we were never offered a complimentary appetiser even though it was part of our deal?! As far as entertainment goes it karaoke style.

One evening a singer sang along to backing tracks until midnight (about 5 hours), alas she was the only entertainment of the week and whilst it was ok, New York New York wears a bit thin after a while!

The spa was very tranquil and ticked many boxes as to treatments.

The staff there were helpful and made it a very enjoyable experience.  Information on the few trips (3) offered was sparse, no leaflets were offered.  A trip up Etna was offered for £100 but no meal made it seem very expensive.  Getting a taxi return to Taormina was over a £100 it was 30 minutes away.

Il Picciolo Golf Resort, Sicily – The staff…

To be brutally honest, overall, the staff communication was a problem the whole week.

There was a power cut one day, no explanation was offered to the guests and we only got into our room by seeking help from a cleaner?

The resort manager (Guy) did make an effort to discuss how our experience was going, he was very friendly and chatted whenever we saw him (he was English) but surprisingly, no other staff engaged to that level, instead, they saved their conversation for Italian guests

Il Picciolo Golf Resort, Sicily – The Golf Course…

The Clubhouse is situated a few hundred yards from the hotel.  Your round can be booked through the hotel, but buggies have to be paid for at the club. The Pro at the club is friendly and his staff are very helpful.

The office doubles with helicopter rides up Etna, so they are not only focussed with the golfers. A spacious locker room is accompanied by shower facilities.  There are drinks machines for refreshments and confectionary.

There had been a fire in the kitchens, so no other food was available at the golf club which was a little disappointing.

However, the Practise facilities are VERY good, a driving range, practice bunker with plenty of sand in it, a dedicated chipping green and practice putting green.  I was given free practise balls – refreshing as that wouldn’t happen in the UK.

A round of golf is not cheap at 85 Euros buggies are 45 Euros.  The course is nicely set out with some challenging holes but the clover (just off the fairways) is four inches long and thick.

Lost balls are inevitable as the fairways are no more than 20 paces.  I felt this was too penial, looking for balls becomes a bit of a chore when you’ve hit a good shot.

It’s a shame as the course has some dramatic holes, but its let down by unkept rough, clover, daisies and very poor signage. A stroke saver is essential for 5 Euros. The slope index does give the average golfer two shots, but it’s the looking for balls that effects your game. #

This is a very undulating course so if you’re going to walk be prepared, the temperature can fluctuate 10 or 12 degrees while you are out there. A fair bit of work needs to address these issues to bring the course up to its best.

However, one thing I will always remember is the scenic backdrop, the views of Mount Etna are spectacular…. and would make me return just to view again.

In summary, Il Picciolo Golf Resort could be an exceptional course but it really needs a lot of work on it to get it above a 3 out of 5 rating.

Would I revisit Il Picciolo?  Probably not until I see improvement in the course, its nowhere near the standard of courses for the same money in Spain or Portugal.

I think its pricing its self out of the market of the average golfer if it wants to attract the better player a lot of work needs to be done to compete with the Algarve etc.

TSG Verdict – 3 out of 5 stars

Following on from Scottish Bob’s blog series on the Oldest Golf Courses of the World by continent in 2017, Bob now turns his attention to some of the lesser known courses around the world, this time its the turn of Christmas Island, Australia (Indian Ocean)…

Christmas Island, Australia (Indian Ocean)…

We have all heard the saying “All your Christmas’s come at once” but this can be true while playing golf on Australia’s most northern golf course!

Situated just 2,600 km, North, North-West of Perth, Western Australia and is Australia’s jewel in the beautiful Indian ocean.

Golf on Christmas Island golf is amazing, the course sits on top a volcanic seamount, pushed up by the volcanic eruptions many millions of years ago.

It is a 18 hole par 64 layout, with fully grassed fairways & greens and it is set on an eastern, gently sloping plateau.

The course is bordered by the Indian Ocean on the east and tropical rainforest jungle to the west.

The golf course was first established by Mr Jack Pettigrew in 1955, who many years earlier had cleared the area while being held prisoner by the invading Japanese forces.

The club is run entirely by volunteers and the course ideally located to catch the south-east trade winds.

Christmas Island, Australia (Indian Ocean) – Thr rules…

The beautiful Clubhouse is perfectly placed overlooking the golf course and Indian Ocean, and according to one of the members, men are NOT allowed on the course on a Wednesday afternoon… and the women are NOT allowed on the course on a Friday afternoon.

If this rule is disobeyed the offending male/female will have to pay for the drinks.

While playing your round of golf, the flora & fauna will amaze you, as will the abundance of Frigate birds & Fruit bats and ‘Abbotts Booby’s’ nesting in the tall trees nearby. NO, it’s not what you are thinking, these are real birds.

However, at certain times of the year, you will come across the “infamous Red Crabs” or the largest land crab, “The Robber Crab”. This unique and endemic species has resulted in local rule concerning the crabs “pinching your balls”.

And at times, the golf course can be a sea of red, with tens of thousands of crabs making their way to the Ocean. During the months of November through to early January, the red crabs migrate from the jungle to the ocean to mate and spawn their eggs.

Breeding is usually synchronized island wide and it is estimated that there are around 40-50 million crabs around the island in total.

No, you can’t have “Chilli Mud Crab” as you can’t eat them, there are a further 14 different species of crabs on the island.

Captain William Mynors of the Royal Mary (a shipping Vessel which was owned by The East India Company) named the island when his ship passed it on Christmas Day 1643. So now you know!

Till Next Time…

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Scottish Bob Davies

Other Unique Golf Course articles from around the world – courtesy of Bob…

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