Hi everyone,
Where on earth did the summer go? It feels like it's only just got here and suddenly it seems to have vanished. Having said that, it's not like this is not normal - August has become a wet month every year (do we all remember Boscastle in Cornwall getting washed away in the middle of August some years ago?) so I'm not sure why I'm surprised at all. However, although we've had a few quiet days in general, things are still very busy at the club and I've no doubt the greens have enjoyed an extra-long drink this week!
In recent weeks, both Warren and I have had good results. I came 23rd in the Kent Open and Warren (Trev) had a great finish in a EuroPro event finishing tied 4th. I was very pleased to be joint 10th after the first round at Prince's having shot two-under-par but the 36 holes the following day caught up with me a little as I then carded a two-over and then four-over in the afternoon. Conditions weren't great and overall I have to say I was very pleased considering.
The event was eventually won by James Ablett, who has been winning regularly in the South Region this year. James edged out ex-European Tour player Benn Barham in a play-off, both having shot 11-under-par for the three rounds. I'm sure you will all join me in wishing Trev luck in the next few weeks as he needs a strong finish to the season. This week illness has hampered his efforts but the signs are good and the EuroPro event at Prince's which is coming up is one he will be aiming at.
This week Simon and Stevie taught another group of juniors at the second junior summer camp. Of all days, this fell on Wednesday which you will all remember was the day it rained continuously! The brave little souls still turned up and had a great time. Long game sessions were first while the rain was fairly light and then indoor sessions followed as it really came down. The putting lessons were enthusiastically received as these photos show - we have a few good little prospects coming through!
Our junior lessons have been very busy this year and this shows how much they enjoy the roll-up sessions on Saturdays with Simon, Stevie and the odd guest appearance from Trev. Moreover, the junior member section is growing steadily and this is all thanks to a lot of hard work that has been put in by a number of people and it is bearing some fruit. Sam Robertson has shot down to 5 (and hits it miles past me so I'm not happy!!) but he is being chased down now by two younger players who have both represented the county this year, Kieran Stubbs and Joshua Watts (whose swing reminds me greatly of a young Freddie Couples!!). I hope you will all support all of the juniors as they continue to represent the club in a wonderful way.
As I said last week, I am to continue my short game clinics (the first one is this afternoon) and the next will be on the 18th of September at 5.00pm. I will be concentrating in this session on short pitching and again there will be demonstrations, some sample teaching (I'll drag one or two of you up) and also a chance for you to try new equipment that can help with these shots. I will be putting another sheet up this weekend but if you would just like to reserve a place just let me know. Get in touch here.
For those of you who use the Srixon AD333 ball, and that's quite a few of you, you will be delighted to know there is a new and improved version. It is softer and has the new 'Spinskin' cover which gives you more control with your short shots. As Foremost members we are one of the first to get the new ball. They are in stock now so make sure you ask for them when you come into the shop.
With Autumn all but here, we are now receiving our Glenmuir, Nike and PING cover-ups. It's strange how the colder days suddenly arrive so come in and check out what's available. Glenmuir's cotton and lambswool range is second to none and we will have both Chestfield crested and non-crested items ready to go.
We still have our £10 OFF a shirt offer on but that will end soon so there's still time to grab a bargain while the warm days remain.
On Monday, 19 October I am taking a small group to Vilamoura to play both the European Masters venue - the Oceanico Victoria and Quinta do Lagos Laranjal. I have managed to secure a superb price for two nights' accommodation in a Marina side hotel and both rounds with transfers of just £265. If anyone would like to join us please let me know here ASAP. This is a wonderful chance to play two of the best courses on the Algarve and with the temperature still around 27 degrees it will be a lovely trip as the colder weather arrives here.