TheSocialGolfer.com, the online golf club and social golf network website, held its sixth TSG MatchPlay Championship Final (Sponsored by Crown Golf) at their flagship course Pine Ridge Golf Club in Surrey, on Sunday 28^th October 2018…

The TSG MatchPlay Championship ran similarly to an FA Cup style knockout with participants arranging each round of matches at a course of their choice.

With clubs in the Crown Golf offering preferential green fees at its venues including Hampton Court GC, Chesfield Downs GC, throughout the summer for TSG members.

The Social Golfer MatchPlay Final 2018 at Pine Ridge Golf Club…

The finalists Dave Short (Essex) and Ollie McCormack (London) both worked their way through a field of 64 to secure their place at Pine Ridge, having played six matches across the year.

In addition, the two losing Semi-finalists Brigitte Lockwood (London) and Andy King (Kent) competed in the third-place play-off.

The final began with Short (11 Handicap) going 3up after three holes, meaning veteran TSG match-player McCormack (10 Handicap) had a mountain to climb to get the game back.

After a valiant effort, McCormack pegged two holes back only to lose them again by the turn.

However, with gritty determination, McCormack clawed his way back to all square on the 18^th green with his final putt forcing a sudden death play-off…

The pair then played the first hole again, twice, before Short holed out for a Par to clinch victory!

Meanwhile, the third-place trophy went to Kent TSGer Andy King, who’s game was settled on the 17th.

The Social Golfer MatchPlay Final 2018 at Pine Ridge Golf Club – what they said…

Mentally exhausted from the battle, Short, commenting on his win said “Many thanks to The Social Golfer for all the time and energy they put into organising this golf event.”

“The online platform is a fantastic concept and I have met so many golfers and played so many courses, that I would otherwise have never visited.”

He went on to say…

“This is such an honour. Well done to the Pine Ridge staff and greenkeepers for making it such a great day. And of course, commiserations to Ollie, who really pushed me all the way. I am over the moon!”

For more information contact us at theteam@thesocialgolfer.com OR call 01277 200 207

By Ian Mullins

Every now and again we hear about a fantastic ‘good news’ golfing story and this time its the turn of the UK’s best Greenkeepers and it’s also TSG partner Crown Golf News...

TPC Sawgrass GC is in the southeastern United States located in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

It is the HQ for the PGA America and annually hosts The Players Championships.

Each year BIGGA members can apply for the opportunity of a lifetime, joining the golf course maintenance team at TPC Sawgrass.

Greenkeepers from around the world get the chance to be part of ‘The Players’ backroom team and BIGGA (The British and International Golf Greenkeepers’ Association) has revealed the first two members who have been selected to take part in the John Deere TPC Sawgrass Volunteer Programme for 2019.

In total, six BIGGA members will be selected to take part in the event, with one selected from each of BIGGA’s five regions and a sixth being selected from the ranks of international members.

Following the final day’s play, before heading home, the greenkeepers will get the opportunity to hit the 17th hole’s famous island green.

Each of the members underwent a rigorous application process, consisting of an online application, submission of a short video and an interview with BIGGA and John Deere representatives.

But why is this Crown Golf News?

Crown Golf News – Greenkeepers Off to TPC Sawgrass…

One BIGGA member selected from over 5,000 applicants, is Andy Copeland (above left) from Chesfield Downs in Hertfordshire.

Andy recently had an up-close look at course preparations for another massive tournament, being invited along with other greenkeepers to visit Le Golf National ahead of the Ryder Cup.

Andy will be out there volunteering for the full duration of the tournament helping to set up the golf course for play.

Since his arrival in June 2016 to Chesfield Downs GC, the course has seen vast improvements under his leadership of the course conditions.

And the Greens that have been quoted as ‘Best in the Area’ with nothing but positive comments coming from all that play the course.

Andy has created a team around him that share his passion and are striving for the same goals as Andy sets himself.

In 2019 The Players Championship will return to its former March date, necessitated by the shift of the PGA Championship from August to May.

Crown Golf News – Greenkeepers Off to TPC Sawgrass – and we know some others going…

However, with another link to The Social Golfer, head greenkeeper at Cleethorpes Golf Club (and Event Director at this year’s TSG Charity British Inclusive Golf) Matthew Shaul (above right) has also been selected to take part.

TSGers also wish both well…

#GoodLuckGuys

By Ian Mullins

For more Crown Golf News – Click Here

Once again, The Social Golfer online golf club and golf community gathered from all over the UK and with some players flying in from Africa for the 8^th The Social Golfer OPEN 2018 (sponsored by Golf News and Golf Escapes).

First held in 2010, this year’s event was held at North Downs Golf Club in South London…

The Social Golfer OPEN Championship…

Despite the driest British Summer in 60 years, the heavens decided that it was 29^th July that the dry spell was to end.

And didn’t we know about it!

However, this didn’t stop 64 golfers battling 30mph winds, squalling rain and, at times only 200 yards visibility.

The event is a great opportunity for TSG members to mingle and ‘be social’ with many of 5k strong UK members (10k+ worldwide) and compete for the much coveted Halliwell Cup donated by Stroke Survivor and British Inclusive Golf Ambassador, Ian Halliwell.

Furthermore, £5 from every entry fee was donated to British Inclusive Golf.

Golf News was very proud to be the Official Media Partner of the day, as the event included a number of golfing challenges and tests.

The Social Golfer OPEN Championship – The Day…

The day’s events comprised, an Individual 18-hole Stableford Competition (Men & Ladies).

A much enjoyed ‘Yellow Ball’ team event, run concurrently with the Straightest Drive and 2 x Nearest Pins.

The Golf News Guest Trophy, Charity Auction and Raffle also on offer.

This year, the event also hosted an indoor ‘Nearest Pin’ competition on North Downs golf simulator, with the winner receiving 2 nights half board at the Isla Canela Golf Hotel in Spain courtesy of Golf Escapes.

The Social Golfer OPEN Championship –  The Winners…

This year’s Men’s winner was Peter Hammond (Hampshire) with 37 Pts and the Women’s winner was Anna Guss (West London & Poland) with 29 Pts. Full results as follows:

Men’s Trophy (Halliwell Cup) …

1st – Peter Hammond – 37 Pts (Won on countback)

2nd – Roger Hurcombe – 37 Pts (British Inclusive Golf)

3rd – Speedy Miller – 34 Pts

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Women’s Trophy…

1st – Anna Guss – 29 Pts (Won on countback)

2nd – Judy Lilley – 29 Pts

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Golf News Guest Trophy…

1st – Jay Penfold (British Inclusive Golf)

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Other winners included…

• NP (3rd hole) – Michael Hanley
• NP(9th Hole) – Paul Langford
• NP in 2(11th hole) – Ian Smith
• Straightest Drive(18th hole) – Judy Lilley
• Nearest to the Sim Pin(sponsored by Golf Escapes) winning a 2-day golfing trip to Spain – Tony Moss
• Yellow Ball Team Winners– Ian Halliwell, Roger Hurcombe, Gary Wilson, Mark Reeves
• Trevor Sandford Trophy – Chip in Birdie – Steve Hunt
• Outstanding Contribution to TSG Award– Brigitte Lockwood

The Social Golfer OPEN Championship – The Charity…

As with all good golf society days, there is often a secondary purpose.

This year’s championship was no exception.

The Social Golfer have always been big advocates in supporting disability golf and this year the members raised over £1200 for British Inclusive Golf.

These monies will go towards helping young kids with autism and other mental and physical disabilities through the game of golf.

 The Social Golfer OPEN Championship – What they said…

Speaking to Golf News after the event here’s what some of the attendees said about the day…

“On behalf of British Inclusive Golf, may I thank you and The Social Golfer community at the TSG 2018 Open, for the warm welcome we received and of course the considerable financial support through the funds raised on our behalf.”

“We are totally overwhelmed by the level of support! All our guys had a marvellous time despite the inclement weather and many new friendships were forged.”  Ian Halliwell – Chairman – British Inclusive Golf

Ian Mullins, Event Director of The Social Golfer OPEN said “Being a golf day organiser can have its trials and tribulations but every year the atmosphere at our events just gets better and better. A big thanks to everyone at Golf News, Golf Escapes and Golf Deals Group for putting up over £1k’s worth of prizes. “

“We hope to grow the event even further in the next 12 months in the hope we can broaden the appeal of the day beyond just our members and guests but include more golfers from all over the world!”

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By Ian Mullins

Read about TSG OPEN 2017 Championship – Click Here

One of Essex golf’s most popular figures, Matt Stables, has returned to South Essex Golf Club as Golf Development Professional with a positive message to all golfers – and a promise to improve their game.

Friend and member of The Social Golfer, Matt is an Advanced PGA Professional and has returned this summer after six years away from the club to develop a brand-new series of activities, aimed at growing the game and attracting golfers of all ages to the 27-hole golf complex….

Matt Stables returns to South Essex Golf Club…

“To me, golf is the best sport in the world, and for millions of people pure happiness is a day at the golf club with friends” said Matt Stables. “So I’m back here to engage local people not only with South Essex but also with this amazing sport.”

And if your golf game is getting you down, Stables has this for you…

“I’ll help you shoot four shots lower in the next 12 months”

He promises as he heads into the summer with new initiatives already established such as a Practice Club where both members and visiting golfers mingle with the common goal of shooting lower scores.

He has also started new Junior Classes at the weekends starting with Tiny Tots from four years of age and is also hosting new coaching programmes for female golfers and seniors at South Essex Golf Club.

To back up his new coaching plans, one of Stables’ first acts on his return to South Essex was to dramatically improve the Driving Range at the golf centre.

His range-refurbishment programme has already seen the introduction of all-new golf balls, hitting mats and lighting to the golf centre’s covered 14-bay range, with new range targets and fairway shaping on the outfield.

The 42-year-old pro feels like he is back at home – he was the Head Professional at South Essex Golf Club from 2009 to 2012 and has been welcomed back warmly by many of the club’s regulars.

“South Essex Golf Club is known as a great place for visitors” he said

“However, we’re actually also a great place to be a member. 27 holes playable all year round, a good range, and a great atmosphere in the clubhouse – it’s always buzzing here, which is one of the reasons I’m back in this new role.”

Stables’ methods have made seismic changes to people’s golfing skills.

“There’s no limit to how well you can play this game ” he said.

“I have a pupil who cut a massive 32 shots off his golf game this year! I just gave him a personalised plan of action, and it really paid off.”

“If you want it badly enough, I can get you there.”

Stables has also coached other professional golfers, and also elite amateurs, but although it is seen mainly as a competitive sport he stresses that the emotional benefits of golf are also very important.

“At a golf club like South Essex you make friends, you get fitter, you discover new things about yourself, and you set and achieve new goals – whatever your age”

“Playing golf is an intense emotional experience, and you feel truly alive out there on the course. That’s why we all love it so much. I’m back at South Essex to channel that passion and energy, into better performance. My goal here is to help you enjoy your golf more than ever!”

Contact Matt at 01277 811289

For more information, visit the TSG club Partners Page –  Crown Golf

By Andy Hiseman

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

Looking for golf clubs in my area? Want to try some new courses?

Crown Golf has recently launched their new website that now includes a handy guide for finding the nearest Crown Golf course to you…

Finding a golf club in your area has never been easier…

No matter where you are in the country, you’ll always be able to find the Crown Golf club that’s closest to you.

Whether you’re looking for a convenient course that’s near where you live…

…or you’re looking for somewhere to meet with friends in a location that works for all of you, our club finder will make it happen.

How does it work…

• Simply put in a postcode or the name of a town and we’ll show you all the surrounding golf clubs in that area.
• You can change the distance radius to as great or small as you wish to broaden or narrow your results.
• It’s also a great excuse to visit our new and improved websites

So next time you’re racking your brains trying to decides where to play next, why not give the Crown golf club finder a try and ‘find golf clubs in my area’?

Finding a Golf Club in your area has never been easier – other changes…

We recently overhauled all sites within the Crown Group to improve the experience for our visitors.

We’ve got lots of new functionality including an updated ‘book-a-tee-time’ process.

This means that not only is it now easy to find the club you want, but to book and play it is simple too!

Each of the club websites proudly displays their course highlights and you’ll see testimonials from other golfers so that you can make a truly informed decision about your next round of golf.

Find Golf Clubs in my area – What they said…

“Great course & club offering good membership deals, swimming pool is a delight and I can’t fault anything at all. Been a member for 5 years now, highly recommend The Hertfordshire as a golf club, food hotspot and gym!” – J.R

“Great course, challenging, great hospitality, friendly staff, great food and drink, a great venue for all walks of life.” – VS (About Merrist Wood)

“Chesfield Downs Golf Club is a lovely golf course with great views and welcoming staff” – R.T

“Great club been a member for 3 years. Club pros are excellent for both advice and lessons, clubhouse food very good value highly recommend. If you play golf, come and join us!” – RR (About Sherfield Oaks)

Aside from reviews and green-fees information, you’ll also be able to see what golf events are on, using the ‘What’s on’ section, and if you are planning a golf society day, we have all the resources for this too.

So, if you haven’t visited our new sites yet, what are you waiting for? Your perfect round of golf is just a few clicks away!

Head to www.crown-golf.co.uk/clubfinder to see a list of all of our Clubs and navigate to the one you want.

If you’re ‘looking for a golf club in my area’ and like to see the ‘club finder’ in action, see our facebook page where we’re showcasing a video demo!

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Crown Golf is the official club partner of The Social Golfer

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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

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Be sure to protect yourself from any unfortunate eventuality, however unlikely. Visit Golf Insurance Online

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Which Golf Ball is right for me?

It’s a pretty simple premise that using the same golf ball in practice as you do in competitions, will help heighten your feel.

It also makes for a more reliable short game but what golf ball will suit your best? And what do you need to consider?

We asked Scott from Premier Lake Balls for his thoughts…

Which golf ball is right for me – Soft or firm? 

A lot of the best golf balls 2018 has to offer come in alternative versions that spin slightly less for players, who prefer a firmer feel or more control off the tee.

Try both types from a range of distances to find your preference. As a guide, the softer the ball, the higher the price tag will be!

Which golf ball is right for me – Cover material?

Urethane covers offer the best spin control and feel but do cost more.

Experiment to see if you notice enough of a difference to validate the extra cost, you may find losing 20 yards off the tee for more spin does not benefit your game.

After all, spinning an 8 iron rather than a wedge is tougher even for the better players.

Which golf ball is right for me – Long game or short game?

With conflicting fitting messages from different brands, consider if your game will benefit most from extra yards off the tee or better feel and control around the greens.

A mid-range ball that offers a bit of length and also a little bit of spin is quite often the best way to go.

Receive 5% discount on all purchases at Premier Lake Balls by click on this link…

For more information on the type of golf ball you should be using… email scott@premierlakeballs.com or visit www.premierlakeballs.com 

The Online Golf Club & Golf Society, The Social Golfer have confirmed that Crown Golf will be its official site sponsor for a third year running….

Crown Golf (the UK’s leading Golf Club Operator) and The Social Golfer (TSG) have built an effective and commercial partnership over the last few years which has resulted in driving over £10K of Green Fees to the group in 2017!

Crown Golf & The Social Golfer – The new deal…

This year’s agreement sees an addition to their effective partnership, with 2018 seeing ALL TSG PRO account holders receiving a FREE round of golf at Crown Courses (T&C’s apply) as part of their annual £29.98 membership fee*.

Furthermore, Crown Golf will also replace The Altonwood Group as the Official Sponsor of the TSG MatchPlay Championship that runs throughout the summer months, with the final held at Pine Ridge Golf Club.

Crown Golf & The Social Golfer – Shared History…

The two brands first partnered in 2016 and as a result, Crown Golf saw over 350 rounds booked at Crown Courses by TSGers (their members) that year.

The renewed partnership will include sponsorship of Blogs, Emails, Newsletter Promotions, Advertising and reciprocal Social Media promotions and website linking.

In the last 12 months, The Social Golfer team continue to provide its unique platform for its members, with over 1000 events being organised via the site with more than 5K+ rounds played on the site.

In addition, the site network now holds over 5K Course reviews generated by its members. The online golf community also has over 5K registered users in the UK and 10k+ worldwide.

The agreement negotiated between Crown Golf Group Director of Sales & Marketing, Nikki Blacker and TSG Managing Director, Ian Mullins and will run throughout 2018.

Commenting on the deal, Blacker said “We have thoroughly enjoyed developing this partnership with The Social Golfer over the last few years and its rewarding to see the agreement working on both a commercial and branding perspective.”

Crown Golf & The Social Golfer – What they said…

“Ian has created a unique platform for nomadic golfers and we couldn’t be happier to renew our sponsorship. We can only see this partnership growing and their network continuing to provide us with a great platform on which to engage with this audience.”

Mullins went on to say “We were delighted that Nikki and her team has committed to working with us for another year. It’s also incredibly refreshing to work with a group that both understand what we are trying to create with our platform and one that is fun to work with.”

“We believe this renewed sponsorship will provide our members the opportunity to sample some of the great courses Crown has to offer and at some fantastic rates!”

*Increase from £24.99 to £29.98 on 1st April 2018

For more information, please contact: theteam@thesocialgolfer.com